The Times of Scotch Plains-Fanwood

Scotch Plains – Fanwood THE TIMES

OUR 39th YEAR – ISSUE NO. 14- 98 Published Every Thursday USPS 485200

Periodical – Postage Paid at Scotch Plains, N. J. Thursday, April 2, 1998

of

— Serving Scotch Plains and Fanwood Since 1959 —

Deadlines Told For Submittals

To The Times

Those persons preparing press releases for submission to The Times are reminded that copy should be e- mailed or faxed by 4 p. m. on the Friday prior to publication. The Times' e- mail address is press@ goleader. com. The fax number is 908- 232- 0473.

Releases, pictures and letters to the editor can also be dropped off at our office located at 50 Elm Street, Westfield or through our mail slot. To ensure that submittals reach our office prior to deadline, we encourage e- mail or faxed materials.

Sports stories which occur prior to the weekend must be in by the Friday deadline. Weekend sports events must be submitted by noon on the Monday prior to the publication date. Obituaries will be accepted up to 5 p. m. on Tuesdays.

All copy must be typed, doublespaced, upper and lower case, no more than 500 words in length, and include a daytime telephone number where the submitter can be reached.

For events which are planned months in advance, we encourage submission of stories as early as possible prior to the event.

Please note that in addition to making our deadlines, the publication of submittals may be delayed due to space considerations. All submittals are subject to being cut due to length, edited for style and clarification at the discretion of the editor.

SUNRISE SEEKING TO BUILD ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY ON SITE

Township Continues Efforts To Obtain Former Zoo Land

And Convert It Into a Park By SUSAN M. DYCKMAN

Specially Written for The Times

Despite the Scotch Plains Township Council's February offer to Warren developer Mitchell Berlant to purchase the former Scotch Plains Zoo property, "it was sold anyway," said Township Mayor Joan Papen.

The newest owners, Sunrise Assisted Living of Fairfax, Virginia, want to put a 76- unit senior citizen residence on the site at the corner of Terrill and Raritan Roads.

The township wants to create a park on the site, and preserve the "Frazee House" (c. 1720- 1740),

which was designated a historic site by the township's Historic Review Commission. According to local history, the British army visited the house during the Revolutionary War.

The township took legal steps to acquire the property on March 24 by introducing an ordinance to condemn the property for public purposes. Council members also authorized the engineering firm of Killam Associates to conduct a Phase I environmental study of the site.

In seeking to acquire the former zoo property, township officials are acting on a recommendation made by the Ad Hoc Recreation Needs Study Committee chaired by Lucille Masciale.

The committee reported the township has 11 neighborhood parks totaling approximately 90 acres, well below the National Recreation and Parks standard of 10 acres per 1,000 residents. Based on this standard, Scotch Plains should have about 200 acres of park land for its population of 21,160, based on 1990 census figures.

In a letter to Mayor Papen and the council, Mrs. Masciale said, "If acquired by the township, it (the zoo property) could readily be adapted in the near term for walking and/ or jogging trails as recommended by the Master Plan, and it is possible that in the future, consideration could be given to re- establishing a petting zoo for the education and enjoyment of children and adults alike."

For over 40 years, the property was the site of a recreational zoo facility.

Mrs. Papen said the zoo's longtime owners, the Terry's, were "very happy" to hear what the township is trying to do.

Sunrise has offered to give the township approximately two of the 5.87 acres to use as a park.

"The portion Sunrise wants to give us is in a flood area," said Mayor Papen. "It's the lowest portion of the lot."

If the township did not have its own plans for the property, what would the Mayor think of a senior citizen residence there?

"It's not a good location," she replied. "It's surrounded by roads, and there will be people in and out, lots of employees as well as visiting friends and relatives."

The committee backed up Mayor Papen's concerns about location. In her letter, Mrs. Masciale said, "The steep grades in a portion of the site, wetlands, flood plain, stream and pond all pose serious constraints to conventional development, but all may be preserved and protected if part of the township's park and open space system."

If its proposal is accepted, Sunrise officials said they would be willing to renovate the Frazee House, and help fund a petting zoo on the property it offered to donate to the township. The facility would also mean a new property tax ratable for Scotch Plains.

Despite the fact that Sunrise al ready operates an assisted- living residence

in Westfield, Vice President of Development Joe McElwee said the demand is high for such facilities.

"Northern New Jersey has one of the highest concentrations of elderly people and children of the elderly," he explained. "Within a fivemile radius of Scotch Plains, there are approximately 15,000 caregivers age 45 to 64 who have household

State Paying Tribute to Entertainer Paul Robeson

By CANDACE WALLER

Specially Written for The Times

Paul Robeson, social activist and renowned entertainer, spent part of his growing years from 1907- 1910 in Westfield. His father, William Robeson, pastored St. Luke African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church on Osborne Street and constructed the church building.

The 100th birthday of Robeson, April 9, is being commemorated state- wide during the month of April with a special series of programs slated for the upcoming week in Westfield. Activities are planned for the remainder of the year.

"The state contacted us about doing something to honor Paul Robeson," said Donnell Carr, a former Westfield councilman who is serving as Co- Chairman of the Paul Robeson Centennial Committee, along with the Reverend Leon Randall, Minister of St. Luke Church.

"I think it's an accomplishment of our town to honor him. At one time he was the most well- known citizen

of the world. He paved the way for the civil rights movement," Mr. Carr stated.

In recognition of Paul Robeson's 100th birthday, the New Jersey Historical Society contacted towns in the state where he lived requesting that they do something to honor the man many regard as an American hero. Thus, the Paul Robeson Committeee was formed.

"We feel very proud of the fact that William Robeson pastored St. Luke, and Paul attended Sunday school here," said St. Luke's present Pastor, Leon Randall. "Paul Robeson was able to accomplish so much during turbulent times."

Although many people in the over50 age bracket have heard of Mr. Robeson, it is widely acknowledged that younger generations have less knowledge of him. St. Luke is planning a service for this Sunday, April 5, and a luncheon is scheduled next Thursday, April 9, the centennial date, with Robeson's granddaughter, Su

Fanwood Volunteer Rescue Squad Marks 50th Anniversary of Its Charter: 1948- 1998

By RUSSELL R. WATKINS

Specially Written for The Times

Every day for 50 years the Fanwood Volunteer Rescue Squad has stood ready to help its friends and neighbors in an emergency.

And although most of the faces have changed since the all- volunteer squad was founded in 1948, the squad's 36 active members still maintain the same level of commitment to their community.

On March 12, the Borough Council honored these dedicated public servants with three resolutions. The first recognized the entire squad for 50 years of dedicated service, while the second and third resolutions hon ored squad members Earl Phillips

and Ruth Wegmann for their "outstanding dedication and commitment" to the squad and the community.

Council President Bruce H. Walsh praised members for their "professionalism and dedication."

The Fanwood Rescue Squad began operations in 1939 with a single LaSalle ambulance and operated out of the old Fire Hall as a part of the Fanwood Volunteer Fire Company. It was chartered as an independent volunteer force on January 29, 1948. In April of that same year, 30 charter members, including Earl Phillips, elected officers and adopted a Constitution. John Yarnell was the first President

and William Matthews was the first Captain. Then, as now, most of the male members of the squad also served as volunteer fireman.

Over the next 50 years the squad racked up an impressive record of service. It answered its first call for assistance on May 7, 1948, and its 100th in 1949.

In 1977 it relocated to its current 123 Watson Avenue address, which was built with the efforts of squad members. To date the volunteers have answered almost 18,450 calls, 500 alone in 1997. Squad member Susan Davis noted this record is "not bad for a one square mile town."

Most squad members are registered Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). To obtain EMT status, a squad member must complete 120 hours of specialized training, plus 10 hours of volunteer time in an emergency room, and pass a state- administered written test.

Once these requirements are met, members receive a license valid for three years. During that time they must re- certify their cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training and supplement their training with additional courses.

Ironically, Ms. Davis cited this as a possible reason why more people do

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Events on Tap For Earth Day

In Fanwood

The Fanwood Clean Community Committee, headed by Public Works Director Raymond Manfra, is inviting the public to take part in the celebration of Earth Day on Saturday, April 18, and the annual community cleanup.

Participants will meet at 8: 30 a. m. at the south side train station and will be divided into groups, each of which will be assigned to clean up a specific area. The work should be completed before noon.

T- shirts, work gloves and trash bags will be furnished to all participants, according to committee member Peter Sayles. This program is made possible through funding from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Local merchants who have pledged to provide beverages and/ or snacks include The Corner Store, Lenny's Bakery, A Tasteful Touch, Rice Inn and Bagelmerica. "We're glad to be a part of the community and happy to support the volunteers' efforts," commented Eric Sinka of A Tasteful Touch.

In accordance with the theme "Think Globally… Act Locally," all business owners will again be asked to pledge their cooperation in keeping their properties clean, said Mr. Sayles.

In the afternoon, members of the public are invited to continue celebrating Earth Day by taking a walk through the Fanwood Nature Center, which is marking its 25th anniversary this year.

The trail begins about 150 feet up the gravel driveway of the center, located on Cray Terrace.

Nature Center Groundskeeper and Environmental Commission Chairman Dean Talcott will be available between 2 and 3 p. m. to discuss any questions or suggestions regarding the center.

This project is being organized by the Fanwood Clean Community Committee in conjunction with the Department of Public Works, and is funded by the Clean Communities Grant which the borough obtained from the state.

Volunteers are asked to notify Mr. Manfra in advance by calling (908) 322- 7404, but any walk- ins will be welcomed.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

PETITION IN OPPOSITION TO PLAN PRESENTED TO BOARD

Proposal for Pre- School Relocation to Park School Continues to Generate Questions and Opposition

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

By SUSAN M. DYCKMAN

Specially Written for The Times

Some questions were answered, but more remain about the proposed relocation of the Scotch PlainsFanwood Pre- School program into Park Middle School, following the March 26 meeting of the Board of Education.

While parents came to the meeting anticipating a vote on the preschool issue, Board President Dr. Donald E. Sheldon made it clear from the start that it was still "too soon" to make a decision.

During the meeting, parents presented the board with a letter containing 296 signatures opposing the

relocation recommendation presented by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carol B. Choye and Director of Special Services Eleanor McClymont. A separate 300- signature petition protesting the move was delivered March 9.

Parents asked the board to "think long- term" when making their decision and reiterated their conviction that converting the board offices behind Evergreen Elementary School into classrooms is a better alternative.

Dr. Choye announced that cost projections to convert the office space would not be available until early May. Parents and certain board members have asked the administration to

substantiate a $500,000 figure set forth as the cost to convert.

Under the modified relocation proposal, the Pre- School Handicapped (PSH) program, for example, would be divided between the Early Childhood Center (ECC) at Park and School One, rather than concentrated at Park.

A PSH class, with one morning and one afternoon session, would be placed next door to the current Title I program in School One. The program would also be expanded from five half- days to six.

In addition, a prior recommendation to shorten the five- day PSH program to four days was withdrawn. Two handicapped accessible doors

with ramps would be created for preschool students entering and leaving the center.

The classrooms designated as the ECC would each contain a sink, water faucet and toilet to alleviate the need for children to use hallway bathroom facilities. This would minimize unplanned interaction between preschool and middle school children.

Planned interaction might include a service club of middle school youngsters meeting with the preschool children to read, play games and tell stories.

Dr. Choye noted that she and Mrs. McClymont visited Edison Intermediate School in Westfield, which has successfully housed the district's pre- school handicapped program for 11 years.

As set forth in the original proposal, the Title I pre- school program would move from Brunner Elementary School into the ECC, freeing up space for Brunner to accept the Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) class from Coles Elementary School. The administration hopes to add a second PDD class in September.

In considering alternatives to free up classroom space, the district has the option of eliminating the Title I program, which is not required by law, while maintaining the current size of the PDD and PSH classes. Elimination of Title I would save $100,000 that could be applied to remedial or basic skills programs.

If the district elects not to add a PSH or PDD class, students in need of these programs would be placed out of district.

Within the district, a half- day PSH class for six children costs $42,264. Out- of- district placement would cost $214,938.

In addition, it costs $101,190 to provide a PDD class for five children within the district. To educate these children out- of- district, the cost would be $278,000, including transportation.

While Dr. Choye respectfully acknowledged the pre- school parents' "different perspective" in focusing on the needs of their own young children, she asked parents to remember that their pre- schoolers will soon be primary grade students who need a place in an elementary school.

"I'm concerned about all the children," she said.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Fanwood Planning Board Requests Modifications To Proposed Café Law By KIMBERLY A. BROADWELL

Specially Written for The Times

The Fanwood Planning Board met last Wednesday to discuss an ordinance that, if adopted by the Borough Council, will bring sidewalk cafés to the borough.

The ordinance is part of an effort to revitalize and attract business to the downtown area and is scheduled for a second reading and public hearing before the council at 8 p. m. on Thursday, April 9.

The proposed ordinance would place some restrictions on any business wanting to implement an outdoor café. Chairs and tables will not

be permitted in front of doorways although they may be situated to the right or left of them.

Sidewalks must also have a minimum six- foot clearance for pedestrians. Because of this, the Planning Board agreed to ask that the cafés be called outdoor as opposed to sidewalk. This will enable restaurants to utilize the space in back of their property as well as the front.

Also, the board asked that the hours that restaurants can operate the cafés be changed to 7 a. m. to 11 p. m. instead of 10 a. m. to 9 p. m. In addition, the board felt that changing the application fee for restaurant owners from $100 to $50 was more "user friendly" for the borough.

Planning Board Chairman Gregory Cummings, noted that these changes were more "reasonable" for the Fanwood restaurants as well as patrons.

In other business, the board granted an application for a variance to John Antunucci of 59 Locust Avenue to install a 16- by 30- foot deck in his backyard. The variance had to be granted because the property did not have the additional 25 feet after the deck that is required by the borough.

Because John Sumislaski, of 203 Farley Avenue, did not give a full 10

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Daylight Savings Time Begins 2 a. m. on Sunday, April 5

Spring Ahead!

FIFTY YEARS OF SERVICE… Borough Council President Bruce H. Walsh, center, reads a resolution honoring the Fanwood Volunteer Rescue Squad on its 50th year of service, as members of the squad look on. In background, pictured left to right, are: Captain Jeffrey Downing, President William Crosby, Ruth Wegmann, Sue Davis, Patti Keever and Robert Kruthers. Also present that evening, but not pictured, are squad volunteers Eric Breidenstein, Steve Siegal and John Granelli.

Page 12 Thursday, April 2, 1998 The Westfield Leader The Westfield Leader and THE TIMES of Scotch Plains – Fanwood A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION

John's Meat Market 2x 4 1/ 2 Bramnick

2x4 san, on the agenda to educate others

about him. Paul Robeson was born in Princeton on April 9, 1898, the youngest of five children. His father, William, escaped slavery by running away at age 15. William Robeson used his ministry as a platform to advocate racial equality. He instilled that belief in his children.

Before Paul Robeson moved to Westfield, his mother, Maria Louisa, had died in a burning accident. The then- youthful Paul played baseball with older athletes because of his athletic promise. His first experience in an integrated school system came while living in Westfield. According to Paul Robeson Committee member Ernest Powell, Robeson attended Lincoln (now defunct) and Washington Elementary Schools.

"He was an outstanding black man of that time," said Ms. Powell. "He was an advocate of equality, a noted singer and actor. He was among the first blacks to make movies and talkies (movies with sound)."

Academics was something stressed in the Robeson home. He received a scholarship to Rutgers, becoming only the third African- American to attend the school. He graduated as class valedictorian of 1919 and was inducted in the Phi Kappa Key (an academic society). While there he received three varsity letters in football, baseball and track.

Continuing his studies at Columbia University, he graduated with a law degree. He also met his future wife, Eslanda Goode, who was studying to be a chemist while at Columbia. Paul Robeson could have lived off the material comforts that his education afforded him, but instead he spoke out about injustice.

During his life, Mr. Robeson, the son of an ex- slave, knew the feelings of extreme racial discrimination first hand, since racial intolerance was more prevalent throughout the United States, historians agree. Mr. Robeson became an actor appearing in Emperor Jones, All God Chillun Got Wings, among others. He used his visibility to dispel myths at the time that hinted African- Americans were mentally incompetent.

His baritone voice, commanding appearance and dignified presence contradicted racial stereotypes,

which at the time indicated that African- Americans were inferior to other groups, as many who have studied him agree.

Usually rejecting demeaning roles, Mr. Robeson, historians and admirers agree, managed to emerge as a vibrant, commanding theatrical presence. Yet, he had to use the service entrance while performing.

His unforgettable portrayal of Shakespeare's Othello on Broadway won him further acclaim and broke some attendance records. Mr. Robeson's ideals seemed a precursor for the civil rights movement later led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In his later travels throughout Europe and Asia, Mr. Robeson found he was treated better than he was at home. He spoke 20 languages,. and was treated with respect, those closest to him noticed.

This newfound feeling strengthened his resolve that racial inequality was wrong. "My father was a slave and my people died to build this country, and I am going to stay and have a piece of it just like you," Mr. Robeson once said. "And no fascist- minded people are going to drive me away from it, is that clear?"

When the McCarthy era of the early 1950s ruined or crippled countless young lives, Mr. Robeson found himself labeled a communist, even though he was never known to have joined the party. His passport and those of his wife, Eslanda, and son, Paul, Jr., were denied. Mr. Robeson, like many others, became ostracized.

"Paul Robeson was a renaissance man," Carol La Pierre, a member of the honoring committee said. "He wasn't able to use that talent in this country (because of racial discrimination)."

Upon returning to the United States, Paul lived with his sister, Marian, in Philadelphia, Pa., where he died on January 23, 1976.

Westfield will temporary rename the Osborne Street in memory of Mr. Robeson, the man known for his battle to overcome injustices, with dignity. Many of the ideals now taken for granted were not available to Mr. Robeson during his lifetime.

But as many now agree, because of his great strides, more Americans became able to enjoy social, economic and political freedoms.

State Paying Tribute to Entertainer Paul Robeson

incomes of $75,000 plus." He said Sunrise profiles above average income areas with above average housing values.

"Scotch Plains is off the charts," added Mr. McElwee. "It's a good, good town."

Rates at Westfield's Sunrise facility start at $59 per day for a semi- private room and go up to $150 per day for a suite. Residents receive three meals a day, linen service, housekeeping, transportation, and all utilities. They also receive assistance with personal care such as bathing and grooming.

Staff members can also monitor administration of medication according to state standards.

"We offer a residential product that's perfect for that particular site," said Mr. McElwee. "The golf course view, the pond view along a heavily- traveled road. It's a good transition use and of great benefit to the town."

Mayor Papen commended the efforts of the Recreation Needs Study Committee.

"We've got an awful lot of legitimate reasons why we need this space in our town," she said.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Fanwood Rescue Squad Marks 50th Anniversary of Charter

not volunteer their time with the squad.

Many, she said, are "put off by the requirements" particularly the 120 hours of specialized training which must be attended in person. However, Ms. Davis noted that the training is not impossible, and can be worked into one's schedule. In fact, she also noted that a typical Rescue Squad member already volunteers their time to another organization.

These commitments can have their rewards. During her 35 years with the squad Ms. Wegmann, affectionately known as the "First Lady" of the Fanwood Rescue Squad, has answered over 2,160 calls, attended 314 meetings and 123 training drills. She has given over 4,600 hours of service to the Fanwood community.

Ms. Wegmann proudly recalls receiving the governors award in 1971 for her efforts in saving a baby who had been thrown from the car in an accident at Terrill Road and Midway Avenue. Although the mother was killed, thanks to Ms. Wegmann and two other squad members' efforts, the baby's life was saved.

Ms. Wegmann commented that such incidents give one an appreciation of life. She recalls that once after she had responded to a call in which a child was hit and killed, she later came across a woman bitterly complaining about her son. With the accident, still fresh in her mind, Ms. Wegmann recalls being so angry that "what I said wasn't even coherent."

Such dramatic incidents are not everyday fare for the members of the Rescue Squad. The organization responds to anyone who calls with a 911 emergency. Ms. Davis estimates that 80 percent of these calls concern medical emergencies such as heart attacks and diabetes attacks.

Members are authorized to give basic life support assistance, and in some cases advanced life support for trauma victims. When not on a call, members perform various tasks.

According to Ms. Davis the squad does not "farm out" any of their maintenance or administrative duties. They wash their own rigs and stuff their own envelopes for their annual fundraiser, which is held every May. No tax dollars go to support the squad. Ms. Davis noted with pride that every time the squad responds to a call it costs only $70, compared with an average of $400 a call for communities with a paid Rescue Squad.

For the most part, squad members are pleased with their place in the community. Ms. Wegmann has noticed that, "Fanwood is very concerned about its Rescue Squad."

She also noted some members of the community have, upon the death of a family member, donated money to the Rescue Squad in lieu of flow ers. Such donations have allowed the

squad to buy several pieces of new equipment in recent years.

Ms. Davis likewise praises the "nice working relationship" the squad has with the borough's police and fire departments.

Also honored at Thursday's ceremony was Mr. Phillips, a lifelong Fanwood resident, former Fanwood police officer, and, of course, a founding member of the Rescue Squad.

During his 50 years with the Rescue Squad, Earl has answered 1,050 calls, attended 280 meetings, and 106 training drills. He has given an estimated 2,400 hours of service to the community. Currently the Chairman of the Building and Grounds Committee, as well as the squad's regular driver, Earl received the honor of "Badge 1" and was recognized as an "extremely loyal and dedicated member."

Because the squad's badge numbers are based on seniority, Earl's "Badge 1" gives him a place of honor on the squad and serves as a visible reminder of all he has shown to the squad, and that the squad has shown to the community.

Like most of the squad, Earl is quiet and unassuming. Ms. Davis described the Rescue Squad as providing a service similar to insurance.

"You don't think about it until you need it," she said.

Parents again asked "what benefit" is derived from opening up space at Brunner when the space problem is most urgent at Coles. Coles would gain one classroom (in addition to the two modular classrooms being installed) if the PDD class is relocated.

Mr. Russo and fellow board member Albert J. Syvertsen agreed that an elementary school setting is the better place for a pre- school program.

"This recommendation has changed repeatedly in accordance with parents' concerns," said Board Vice President Jessica D. Simpson. "Every legitimate concern has been addressed, and the suggestion that it puts kids at risk is bogus."

"Finding space on the north side," said board member Richard H. Meade, "doesn't address the space issue on the south side. Since more children attend school on the south side than we have space for, we either build, or do some significant redistricting."

"The modified relocation plan is an improvement, not a long- term solution," he added. "I suggest we tread water for a year, and look at significant redistricting for a year from September."

He also favored putting art and music classes on carts to free up needed space.

"Don't kid yourself," responded board member Morris H. Gillet to parents' applause at Mr. Meade's classes- on- carts' suggestion. He emphasized the disservice done to children when music and art are not considered an important part of their education.

A prepared statement from board member Edward J. Saridaki, Jr. also met with applause from the audience.

He began, "I am not making this statement lightly nor is it my intent to compromise the effectiveness of this Board of Education or Administration...."

"I cannot support this proposal," he continued, "because I have a distinct lack of confidence in the administration's ability to manage the environment into which these children, our district's most fragile and vulnerable, will be placed. ... In the last four years, two years prior to my being elected and the last 23 months that I have served on this board, I have had many occasions to examine the management practices of this administration and Board of Education.

"... I have not spoken to, or heard from, one member of the public or staff, outside of administrators, who feel this is the right or best thing to do for our children. I have heard from staff members who have children in the district who feel very strongly against this proposal, but will not come forward because they are concerned about their jobs.

".... I am not satisfied that the other options available to the district have been honestly and diligently researched. The prime example of this is moving the Administrative offices out of their current location....," he stated.

Board member August Ruggiero criticized Mr. Saridaki for not doing the superintendent the courtesy of forewarning her of his intent to deliver such a statement.

While Mr. Russo spoke of his "confidence in the administration and the

diligence put in this (pre- school) proposal and other work" during his brief tenure on the board, he called for "real figures" regarding the creation of classrooms out of the board offices.

"I want to make sure we have complete information," he said, "so the proposal I support will be closest to the best possible situation for all students."

Discussion on the pre- school relocation proposal will resume April 7 at the board's agenda meeting.

In other business, the board authorized changes to the district's standardized testing program. The Stanford Achievement Test will replace the Iowa Test of Basic Skills as the district's standardized test for grades 3, 5, 6 and 7 beginning in the 1998- 1999 school year.

The Otis- Lennon School Ability Test will replace the CogAT as the district ability test for grades 2 and 5, beginning in 1998- 1999.

To avoid double testing periods, the board eliminated a national standardized test in grade 4 as the statemandated Elementary School Proficiency Assessment will be introduced this spring. Mr. Russo, Mr. Saridaki and Mr. Syvertsen opposed the motion.

The board also approved the administration of the Grade 2 district's developed test instrument beginning this spring, despite opposing votes from Mr. Russo and Mr. Saridaki and Mr. Syvertsen.

Mr. Saridaki sided with parent Victoria Manduca of Fanwood who called the district- developed test a "meaningless base for parental information." Mrs. Manduca was part of the district testing committee that developed the local test for first and second graders.

In response to criticism that standards set by the district- developed test were not high enough, Mr. Ruggiero said, "We can only make adjustments to higher standards once we have experience with the test. It's not perfect, but I can support it. We should look at it on a year- to- year basis."

Board members also approved the following grant applications: to Miles Hodsdon Vernon Foundation for $40,000 from fourth grade teacher Eloise Schundler to establish a technology- enhanced or prototype classroom; and to the Christie McAuliffe Foundation for $40,000 from seventh grade teacher Joyce Snyder to help students integrate mathematics and personal finances in a mock program entitled "Purchase An Automobile."

The board also recognized the following retirements: Linda Buonpane, 23 years, classroom aide, Park and McGinn Schools; Irene Clarke, 23 years, lunch/ general aide, Terrill; Vito Cupoli, 37 years, teaching staff, Scotch Plains- Fanwood High School (SPFHS); Peter Hoskey, 31 years, teaching staff, the former Shackamaxom Elementary School and SPFHS; and Lillian Brenda Jackson, 23 years, teaching staff at McGinn, Coles, Terrill and Shackamaxon Schools.

Also recognized were: Roberta Kieffer, 28 years, teaching staff, Evergreen; Elaine Kolker, 30 years, Brunner School; and Anna Osborne, 12 years, bookkeeper, Business Department.

Questions Remain Regarding Move of Pre- School Program

days of notice when he served his neighbors with his proposal, his request for a deck in the back of his house could not be heard.

According to the board's attorney Robert T. Mega, the board has no jurisdiction over a notice that is not served a full 10 days prior to a public hearing. The date of the public hearing cannot be counted as the tenth day. Mr. Mega, also stated that Mr. Sumislaski must give another full 10 days notice to his neighbors as well as re- submit the notice to the newspapers to apply for a variance.

In other business, Marcia Ann Spector of 5 Crest Lane applied for a variance to put an addition on her front yard. The borough requires that a resident must have 35 feet after the addition and Ms. Spector has 32.8 feet.

According to Richard A. Marsden, Borough Engineer, the new structure will overhang the back of the existing dwelling by one foot; and will overhang the front of the house by two feet. This, Mr. Marsden explains, will create an additional 101 square feet of space that needs drainage.

Mr. Marsden states "although the percentage increase in impervious

cover is small, it will not improve an already aggravating stormwater runoff condition that exists along the back yards of the homes from 3 Crest Lane to 11 Crest Lane.

"It is my recommendation that all roof gutters and leaders be directed away from the back yards and into a front yard seepage pit that will have an overflow drain through the curb and into the gutter of the road," the engineer explained.

Speaking about the concern over the additional impervious coverage, Joe Rosco, of 3 Crest Lane, concluded that he didn't have a problem with the addition to his next door neighbor's house as long as Mr. Marsden's stipulations were adhered to.

The board approved the variance with the addition of Mr. Marsden's recommendations.

In other business, the board reviewed the final site plan that was approved in February to the LaGrand Square Partnership. This development will consist of a four- duplex unit on slightly less that three quarters of an acre of land at the comer of LaGrand Avenue and Third Street.

Fanwood Planning Board Requests Café Law Changes

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

SCOTCH PLAINS POLICE BLOTTER

Easter Egg Hunt Set For Saturday, April 4

In conjunction with the Scotch Plains Recreation Department of Parks and the Scotch Plains Business and Professional Association, the Scotch Plains Junior Woman's Club will conduct the annual Easter Egg Hunt this Saturday, April 4.

The search for eggs will start at 10 a. m. sharp, rain or shine, on the Village Green adjacent to the Municipal Building on Park Avenue.

A separate egg hunt will be held for toddlers and age groups 2 and under, 3 and 4, 5 and 6, and finally 7 and 8.

Face painting for 50 cents, a bake sale, games, prizes and the Easter Bunny will also be on the Village Green. Egg dyeing for youngsters age 7 and older will start at 10: 30 a. m., with eggs and dye donated by the SPBPA.

Parents, along with friends and relatives of participants, are invited to attend. For further

MONDAY, MARCH 23

· A resident of Spruce Mill Lane reported the theft of a purse from the residence, sometime around noon, police said. The victim reported that the house was left unattended for a short period of time.

· A realtor reported that some time during the weekend, someone had put a garden hose in the mailslot of an Arrowwood Drive home, causing extensive water damage.

· A resident of Short Hill Lane reported that someone had smashed out a vehicle window and had taken a wallet. The theft occurred during the night, police believe.

TUESDAY, MARCH 24

· Shunnell M. Reid, 22, of Plainfield was arrested and charged with giving false

information to an officer pursuant to a motor vehicle stop on Route No. 22.

· William F. Rosado, 18, of Plainfield was arrested and charged with resisting arrest by fleeing from an automobile pursuant to a motor vehicle stop on Route No. 22.

THURSDAY, MARCH 26

· A resident of Morse Avenue reported the theft of an 18- speed mountain bike from the residence during the evening.

FRIDAY, MARCH 27

· A resident of Bartle Avenue reported that some time during the early morning hours, someone had broken the door handle to his vehicle.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28

· An East Second Street antique dealer reported the theft of a model car some time over the previous two days.

· A patron of an amusement facility on Route No. 22 reported that someone had broken into her vehicle and removed a popout radio and several personal items.

· A resident of Willow Avenue reported finding pry marks on a window and a ladder propped alongside of it.

SUNDAY, MARCH 29

· Janet S. Frieri, 26, of Scotch Plains was arrested and charged with shoplifting at a convenience store on Westfield Avenue.

· Miguel Ramirez, 54, of North Plainfield was arrested and charged with possession of suspected cocaine pursuant to a motor vehicle stop on Route No. 22.

Charles Ayala Wins Award In Juried Art Competition ARTISTS WIN AWARDS… Scotch Plains resident Charles Ayala, right, and

Matt Holland of Cranford display the awards they won at the 19th Annual Juried Art Competition for high school students held at the du Cret School of Art in Plainfield. Charles won honorable mention and Matt won second place in the Computer Art category. The students are both enrolled in the Commercial Art program taught by Linda Dobransky at Union County Vocational- Technical Schools in Scotch Plains.

Charles Ayala of Scotch Plains was among the winners at the 19th Annual Juried Art Competition for high school students held recently at the du Cret School of Art in Plainfield.

Charles won honorable mention in the Computer Art category with his entry entitled "Well Full of Hell."

Frank Falotico, Director of the du Cret School of Art, presented the students with their awards.

Charles is enrolled in the Commercial Art program taught by Linda Dobransky at Union County Vocational- Technical Schools in Scotch Plains.

Erratum

A story which appeared in the March 26 edition gave an incorrect date for a craft show sponsored by the Scotch PlainsFanwood High School Alumni Association and the Student Leadership Conference.

The show will be held this Saturday, April 4, at the high school on Westfield Road, from 9: 30 a. m. until 4 p. m. We regret the error.

ATTENTION

Scotch Plains & Fanwood Residents

The Times now has a drop- off box for releases located at: Nuts n' Plenty, 407 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains

When dropping off releases, please make sure they are typed, double spaced, upper and lower case and have a contact name and telephone number.

Council Effort Continues To Buy Zoo