North South Brunswick Sentinel

NBTHS using outside co. for drug testing

BY JENNIFER AMATO Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

The North Brunswick Township School District will now use Sports Safe Testing Services to handle the North Brunswick Township High School's random drug-testing policy. Sports Safe will confidentially administer lists of chosen students, who will come down anonymously to the nurse's office to have their specimens collected by a certified toxicology specialist.

S.B. biz owner concerned about dog park proposal

Township may build public park next year BY MICHAEL ACKER Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

Gretchen Zimmer, owner of Rocky Top Dog Park on Route 27, is worried that next summer may not be as profitable for her business if South Brunswick moves forward with its proposed public dog park.

Photo

11/20/2008

JEFF GRANIT staff Senior Nikki Karas (r) tries to elude junior Mallory Comunale at North Brunswick Township High School Student Government Organization's Powder Puff football game Nov. 12. For more photos, see page 23.

A preemie's struggle for survival

BY JENNIFER KOHLHEPP Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

Not every baby born prematurely is as lucky as Millstone Township's Hannah Siegel. Hannah, who will celebrate her third birthday in January, was born during the 29th week of Cheryl Ann Siegel's pregnancy, under traumatic conditions that put both mother and child at risk of losing their lives.

Background check bill clears Senate

BY LAUREN MORTENSON Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

The New Jersey Senate unanimously passed a bill recently that will revise the current background check requirements for all school employees who come in contact with students. Sponsored by Sens. Loretta Weinberg, Barbara Buono and Shirley K.

S.B. votes down Fortunoff's parking request

BY MICHAEL ACKER Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

SOUTH BRUNSWICK — The fate of a vacant warehouse is in the balance after the potential tenant's recent request for leniency was rejected.

Residents may vote for new Hall of Fame class

11/20/2008

T 30 nominees in five categories as the organization launched voting for the class of 2008. These leaders and legends, from presidents to poets, in the categories of Historical, Arts and Entertainment, Sports, Enterprise and General,

Special pets sought for Animal Hall of Fame

11/20/2008

Nominations are now open for the 14th annual Animal Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place Feb. 22 during a public awards luncheon at the Hamilton Park Conference Center in Florham Park. For 13 years New Jersey's veterinarians have been honoring special animals that make an indelible impact on the lives of the people around them.

Middlesex County celebrates National Adoption Day

BY ZACH LEVINE Correspondent — 11/20/2008

NEW BRUNSWICK — Twenty children and one adult found permanent homes with 17 families on Nov. 13 during adoption proceedings at the Middlesex County Courthouse. The event took place in collaboration with National Adoption Day, which is observed in all 50 states.

Young men spread the word of God through their feet

BY JENNIFER AMATO Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

NORTH BRUNSWICK — Daniel and Tristan Davis are two young adults trying to make a difference in the lives of their peers.

Court says COAH plans due this year

BY DANIEL HOWLEY Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

The state appeals court has denied a motion filed by the New Jersey League of Municipalities (NJLM) to postpone a deadline for municipalities to prepare their affordable housing plans.

Economy aside, bank still set on Forney site

BY JESSICA SMITH Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

Though Valley National Bank is feeling the squeeze of the economic crisis, it will continue its efforts to raze the historic Forney Clinic building in Milltown and replace it with a bank branch. "I can tell you that they are pursuing it just as zealously as they have in the past," said attorney Pete McArthur, of Pompton Plains-based Azrak & Associates.

S.B. woman faces allegations of filing false report

11/20/2008

SOUTH BRUNSWICK — Police issued a complaint against a Monmouth Junction woman regarding allegations that she made a false report against a local police officer. Police issued Leena S. Davis a summons complaint for allegedly making false reports to authorities on Nov. 6.

Improper storage causes apartment fire in S.B.

BY MICHAEL ACKER Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

SOUTH BRUNSWICK — A local fire deputy has determined that improperly stored combustible items were the cause of a recent fire at a township apartment. Firefighters were able to extinguish what was left of the fire, which occurred in the town's Monmouth Junction section at 11:20 p.m. Nov. 12.

S.B. Camera Club exhibit at Princeton church

11/20/2008

The South Brunswick Camera Club, sponsored by South Brunswick Arts Commission, is holding its first major exhibit at the Art Way Gallery of the Princeton Alliance Church, 20 Schalks Crossing Road, Plainsboro. The exhibit will be on view until Jan. 3. Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-9 p.m. weekdays, 3-8 p.m. Saturday, and 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sunday.

'Enchanting Taiwan' now at S.B. Library

11/20/2008

The South Brunswick Public Library will hold a photo exhibition, "Enchanting Taiwan," through Dec. 20 at the library, 110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction. Forty works by Taiwan's top photographers will be displayed, designed to bring visitors closer to Taiwan, and present a fresh perspective on the land. For more information, call 212-317-7354, or 201-988-7985.

Book group to discuss Paul Newman Dec. 1

11/20/2008

The South Brunswick Public Library's Adult Book Discussion Group will discuss "Shameless Exploitation in Pursuit of the Common Good" by Paul Newman 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1. The book tells how Newman and a business partner created a successful company whose proceeds benefit many charitable organizations. For more information, call the Information Services Desk at 732-329-4000 ext.

Cars sought for Vehicle Donation Program

11/20/2008

The American Lung Association is looking for a few new or used cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles and boats for its Vehicle Donation Program. Vehicles received are sold for the highest value possible to help fund the mission to prevent and control lung disease. The association will pick up the car at no cost to the owner.

Free training offered for food service help

11/20/2008

The New Jersey Restaurant Association (NJRA) is offering free state-mandated training classes for the hospitality industry for current and new restaurant members until April 2009. The ServSafe training fulfills state requirements of mandatory food safety training for each establishment.

Greenstein receives Citizen of Year Award

11/20/2008

Assemblywoman Linda Greenstein (Mercer/Middlesex), North Brunswick, has been named the Indian American Civic Forum's (IACF) Citizen of the Year. The award is considered to be the forum's highest honor.

CFBNJ turkey drive Nov. 22 in No. Brunswick

11/20/2008

The Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ), Hillside, is collecting frozen turkeys, canned goods, and funds for the Thanksgiving holidays. Volunteers will be at Magyar Bank, 582 Milltown Road, North Brunswick, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 22. The dropoff point will be in the parking lot.

South River HS class of '88 plans 20th reunion

11/20/2008

South River High School Class of 1988 will hold a 20-year reunion 7 p.m. Nov. 22 at Ria Mar Restaurant, South River. The event will feature food, cocktails and dancing. Cost is $75 per person, and one guest is allowed. To reserve, call Kathy at 732-822-0884 or e-mail kathykou@comcast.net.

Tickets available for 'Disney on Ice' show

11/20/2008

Tickets are available for North Brunswick's trip to "Disney on Ice: Worlds of Fantasy" Nov. 26 at the IZOD Center. The bus departs at 8:45 a.m. from the Sabella Park Preschool on Cozzens Lane and returns at approximately 1:45 p.m. The cost is $25 per ticket. No refunds will be issued. To reserve tickets, contact Debi Verpent at 732-247-0922 ext. 206.

WRAT Nutcracker to feature Shinedown

11/20/2008

Greater Media radio station WRAT-FM 95.9 is presenting its traditional WRAT Nutcracker with Shinedown and special guests Halestorm 7 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Starland Ballroom, Sayreville. Jacksonville, Fla., natives Shinedown are known for such hits as "Fly from the Inside," "45" and "Save Me.

Organic product sale held through Nov. 29

11/20/2008

The Lawrence Brook Watershed Partnership will extend its annual organic (chemical-free) lawn and home-cleaning product sales at 2008 prices through Nov. 29, from 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays at headquarters at 85 Washington Ave., Milltown. Appointments after hours can be arranged.

Tickets still available for Christmas show

11/20/2008

North Brunswick Department of Parks & Recreation still has tickets available for its New York City holiday shopping trip and Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular 11 a.m. Dec. 7.

Food donations sought for Elijah's Promise

11/20/2008

Elijah's Promise is seeking donations of foods due to an increase in the numbers of guests at its soup kitchen. Items may be dropped 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at 18 Neilson St., or at The Culinary School, 211 Livingston Ave., both New Brunswick.

Church slates Nov. 22 Holiday Mart/Bazaar

11/20/2008

The Presbyterian Church of New Brunswick, serving North Brunswick, Milltown, Somerset, East Brunswick, Metuchen and New Brunswick, will hold its 14th annual Holiday Mart/Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 22 at the church's Friendship Hall, 100 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick.

New Brunswick Lions to hold breakfast, show

11/20/2008

The New Brunswick Lions Club will hold a pre-Thanksgiving Day pancake breakfast to feed the homeless 9-11 a.m. November 23 at Elijah's Promise, 18 Neilson St., New Brunswick. The community may sponsor a homeless family or person. Donation is $5, $3 for children, and $10 per family. Volunteers are also needed.

Cambridge receives $500 Alliance grant

11/20/2008

Cambridge Elementary School, Kendall Park section of South Brunswick, has received a $500 ExxonMobil Educational Alliance grant. The Alliance program funds more than 3,000 school programs nationwide annually. Cambridge has received more than $2,000 in Alliance grants.

Taxpayer money shouldn't be for pet welfare

11/20/2008

While many New Jersey residents are losing their jobs, homes and retirement accounts, New Jersey's animal "rights" fanatics and dippy anthropomorphist are hard at work in our legislature. New Jersey Assembly Bill A3052 will unduly expand emergency evacuation plans to include care for domestic animals.

Your Turn

Guest Column • Mayor Francis 'Mac' Womack — 11/20/2008

In recent weeks, the Sentinel's opinion page has contained letters expressing reservations and outright opposition to North Brunswick Township's recent renovation of Sabella Park. The writers suggest that the renovations have been extravagant and are not in best interests of township taxpayers.

A story to remember

In the News • MARK ROSMAN — 11/20/2008

One of the most difficult tasks this job presents is writing articles about children who are battling serious diseases, or about young people who lose their life in a tragedy. The articles that describe the challenges these individuals and their families are facing tug at the heartstrings.

Mom's chili goes to the nutrition lab

Are We There Yet? • LORI CLINCH — 11/20/2008

Although I decided about 10 minutes into parenthood that I'd never be a contender for mother of the year, I've given it my best shot. I've done a good job of snapping and pointing at the right times. I have settled arguments with the wisdom of Solomon and mastered phrases as brilliant as "Because I said so" and "I don't care who did it first.

Veterans Day had special significance this year

Coda • GREG BEAN — 11/20/2008

On Nov. 11, my wife and I attended the annual Veterans Day observance at Veterans Park at the East Brunswick OMunicipal Complex. I've attended many of these observances over the years as a reporter and observer, but this year was different.

A target-rich environment for columnists these days

Red State/ Blue State • DAVE SIMPSON & GREG BEAN — 11/20/2008

Dear Greg: I'm still chuckling amiably about the way you ended a post-election e-mail to me, which I think we should share with our readers. (I'm determined to remain amiable these days, takingwhat comes my way with Falstaffian good humor.

David McAulay

11/20/2008

Mr. McAulay, 78, of Highlands, and formerly Rumson, died Oct. 31, 2008, following a battle with cancer. He was a U.S. Merchant Marine from 1951-88, and member of the Master Mates & Pilots Union. Following retirement, he was employed at Interport Pilots, Port Monmouth section of Middletown. He was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Amelia in 2004; and a brother, Bruce.

Frank Kovacs Sr.

11/20/2008

Mr. Kovacs, 82, of South River, died Nov. 6, 2008, in Cranbury Center, Monroe. Prior to his retirement in 1992, he was employed as a foreman with Johnson and Johnson, North Brunswick, where he worked for 30 years. He also owned the Vienna Café, New Brunswick, and several other bars and restaurants. His wife, Julia Kosa Kovacs, died in 2004.

Dorothy Cottrell Molteg

11/20/2008

Mrs. Molteg, 82, a resident of Sayreville for 59 years, died Oct. 27, 2008, at Raritan Bay Medical Center, Old Bridge. Before her retirement in 1991, she was a setup and layout person for Greater Media Newspapers for 15 years. Mrs. Molteg was predeceased by her sons, Mark, Martyn and Myles Molteg. Surviving are her husband of 59 years, Charles E.

Carl H. Elardo

11/20/2008

Mr. Elardo, 50, a resident of Parlin for 36 years, died Oct. 28, 2008, at home. Before his retirement in 2003 he was a tractor trailer driver for Mystic Bulk Carriers in Matawan and was a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Mr. Elardo was predeceased by his parents, Carl and Helen Elardo.

Vera Armenti Covino

11/20/2008

Mrs. Covino, 89, of Pompano Beach, Fla., died Oct. 27, 2008, at home. She was predeceased by her first husband, Alphonso "Al" Covino; and five brothers, Dominick, Louis, Victor, George and Dan. She is survived by her husband, Joseph Hidvegi of Coconut Creek, Fla.; a daughter, Donna M. Johnson of Bradenton, Fla.; a brother, Carmen Armenti of Uniondale, Pa.

George H. Creighton Jr.

11/20/2008

Mr. Creighton, 75, of Helmetta, formerly of Edison, died Nov. 11, 2008, in Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick. Prior to his retirement in 1998, he was the manager of Carolier Lanes, North Brunswick, where he worked for 25 years. His wife, Margaret, died in 1996.

Helen V. Halik Golla

11/20/2008

Mrs. Golla, 90, of Old Bridge, died Nov. 2, 2008, in Park Place Center, South Brunswick. Prior to her retirement, she was employed as a bartender at Pete's Tavern, East Brunswick, where she worked for more than 40 years. Her husband, John, died in 1961; a son-in-law, James Colleton, died in August; and a grandson, William Evans, died in 2004.

Local soldier visits No. Brunswick elementary school

BY JENNIFER AMATO Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

NORTH BRUNSWICK — United States Army Staff Sgt. Daniel Guzman held up a knapsack that could weigh 50 pounds by itself, without the addition of a radio and extra ammunition.

Helpline now available to youths all over state

11/20/2008

Representatives of 180 Turning Lives Around Inc. were joined recently by New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) Commissioner Kimberly Ricketts to announce the successful statewide rollout of the 2nd Floor Youth Helpline.

NBPD tries to find a SMART way to engage teenagers

BY JENNIFER AMATO Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

NORTH BRUNSWICK — The township Police Department has made a SMART suggestion on how to target at-risk students.

Trading places

11/20/2008

PHOTOS BY JEFF GRANIT staff From top: The senior class breaks through their banner as they run onto the field at the start of North Brunswick Township High School Student Government Organization's Powder Puff football game Nov. 12. Kristen Padovano tries to jump over the end zone pylon for a touchdown before going out of bounds. Cheerleader Josh Martin supports the senior girls in their game against the juniors.

Freshmen contribute to Rutgers' season-opening victories

BY DAN NEWMAN Staff Writer — 11/20/2008

The Rutgers University women's basketball team showed why there's so much optimism surrounding the program with its 86-59 season-opening victory over St. Joseph's University on Friday evening.

RU wrestling looking to make big gains under Goodale

BY DOUG McKENZIE Correspondent — 11/20/2008

After coming on strong late last season (winning seven of its last nine matches to finish 7-5 on the year), the Rutgers University wrestling team is ready to take its success to the next level. Now in their second year under head coach Scott Goodale, the Scarlet Knights have entered the season amid some lofty expectations. And for good reason too.