Mendham Twp. Newsletter - Spring 2003

MENDHAM TOWNSHIP DIRECTORY

Town Hall ( 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Mon.-Fri.)....(973)543-4555

Stephen P. Mountain , Administrator

Penny Newell, Clerk

Public Works/Road Department ......(973)543-4509

Construction & Zoning Office ....…..(973)543-7464

Municipal Court .................………..(973)543-7526

Police Dept. (Non-emergency only)..(973)543-2581

EMERGENCY ONLY...... 9-1-1

Township Committee

Robert D. Pierson, Mayor                    (973)543-5606

Santé D'Emidio, Deputy Mayor            (973)543-8590

Richard H. Krieg                                  (973)543-6755

Brian J. Phelan                          (973)895-3031

Jack Schrier                                         (973)543-2447

Congratulations to Our Super Superintendent of Public Works!

David H. Read, Sr.

30 Years of Exceptional Service to Mendham Township

 February1, 2003, marked Dave Read’s 30^th anniversary as a member of our Department of Public Works. Dave began his career here at the bottom of the ladder and worked his way up to become Superintendent in 1990. Time after time we hear praise for the condition of our roads, winter and summer, thanks to Dave’s strict adherence to a road maintenance schedule he created. And when it snows, Dave and his men have no peer -- while other towns’ roads are still snow-covered, Mendham Township roads are “black.”

Dave is a real hands-on manager, too. He operates the equipment himself, pitches in at the schools, keeps Brookside Beach ship-shape, makes our playing fields playable, helps our July 4^th Brookside Parade to be the best small town parade in America, and manages his staff with efficiency and consideration. He also prepares his annual budget with careful attention to every detail. Dave Read works long and hard to provide the best services to our town at the lowest possible cost.

“As a long-time liaison to our Public Works Department, it was my privilege to know and work with Dave Read, an extraordinary Public Works Superintendent. Thanks, Dave, and congratulations!”

-- Township Committeeman Jack Schrier

è Tuesday April 15 -- School Election -- Vote! ç

è Tuesday June 3 -- Primary Election -- Vote! ç

IN THIS ISSUE OF TOWNSHIP NEWS:

·        Brookside Beach Is Better, Bigger Bargain

·        Your Township Committee Aids Schools

·        Assemblyman Merkt on Property Taxes

·        Our Township Library – Still Here!

·        Vietnam War Veteran Medals

·        First Aid Squad says – “Pull Over, Now!”

·        Brush Pick-Up and HazMat Disposal Dates

·        Have A Gate? Read About New Ordinance

·        Helping Domestic Violence Victims

·        Letter from Mayor Pierson: "Wonderful Possibilities"

… and more

Letter from the Mayor

A new year, and the possibilities are wonderful.

Dear Friends:

It is an honor to serve as your Mayor for a third term. I thank the Township Committee for their confidence in me, and I look forward to working with them and with you this year.

A very well-managed community

            The Township Committee is dedicated to giving you the type of good government we believe you deserve. Toward that end, we will continue to provide the sound, honest, thoughtful planning and management needed to daily run our small town in an efficient, business-like yet compassionate manner. When problems arise, as they inevitably do, be assured that your Township Committee members along with our employees will work to solve them while they are still small and quick to fix.

            As we have demonstrated for more than a decade, one essential element of a well-managed town is sound budgeting with good controls. In the last eleven years there has been only one municipal tax rate increase here. Admittedly we have had some luck, but you don’t set a record like that without sound budgets that are tightly managed.

Members of the Township Committee got together for six special budget sessions over the last few months. We called in all our department heads and went over every item they requested. Then we did the hard work of paring down requests, so as to fund only those which we believe to be necessary. The bottom line, I am delighted to tell you, is that 2003 will see NO municipal tax increase – again.

Room for growth urgently needed

            By early fall, we expect a final determination to be made on the location of the proposed Mendham Township/Mendham Borough combined library, which is a private, non-profit organization. (There is a related story in this issue.) This is a large undertaking for both communities. We are looking forward to seeing site plans for the library as well as determining each town’s capital contribution which, hopefully, will be partially offset by a major fund-raising effort by the Joint Library Board itself.

            When plans for the new library are set we will at last be in a position to design the expansion of our town offices into a portion of the old library space. We also hope to develop final plans to replace the outmoded Brookside firehouse on Cherry Lane . And, separately, we will be deciding on the right place to house our overcrowded police station.

Preservation keeps us special

Before summer, we expect to acquire the historic Nesbitt Cider Mill in Ralston. We received notice that our application for $400,000 in county open space funding has been approved, and that will be added to our own open space funds earmarked for this purpose. The newly formed Nesbitt Mill Trust Fund which will manage the mill hopes to raise additional funding from interested citizens and foundations for the restoration of the building.

            Also on the open space front, we have additional money committed from the Morris County Open Space Trust to help acquire property contiguous to lands that we own off of Tempe Wick Road and Corey Lane . Working with our township open space committee we will continue to look for other important parcels of land to acquire. The land and buildings on Ironia Road that we purchased from the Seeing Eye are presently being studied to determine their best recreational use. The study is expected to be finished in late spring.

            As always, the township will be working on a wide variety of maintenance and improvement projects in 2003. These include a new concrete bulkhead and other upgrades at Brookside Beach , an addition onto our Public Works garage, final plantings at the Ralston Playground, enhanced recreation programs, additions to our wonderful trails system, and on and on.

Collaboration with our schools

            In conclusion, Dr. Frank Fehn, Superintendent of Schools, has accepted our proposal to let the township government play a role in the school construction projects approved by the January 28^th referendum. We are eager to re-establish the excellent cooperation that formerly existed between the School Board and the Township Committee, and welcome this opportunity.

There will be a Township Committee member on the Construction Supervisor Selection Committee. In addition, the township’s construction, fire, plumbing and electrical officials will be meeting with the schools’ architects and contractors, to help ensure that building-code requirements are known and good relationships established, before construction starts. We will provide other services wherever they are appropriate and needed.

The whole town has a lot riding on the school project. We are optimistic that 2003 will see a revitalized spirit of teamwork between town and school officials, to bring the new construction in on-time and under budget.

Robert D. Pierson

Mayor

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Important

New Residential Gate Ordinance

Ensures Emergency Vehicle Access and

Limits Height of Gate Pillars, Posts and Gates

            An ordinance adopted in December 2002 and amended in February 2003 regulates driveway gates on residential properties in the Township. The purpose of the regulations is to ensure that emergency vehicles including fire trucks have ready access to residential properties in the Township. An increasing number of instances have been reported by fire department volunteers where driveway entrance pillars or posts have been too narrow to allow safe passage of fire apparatus, or where the driveway gate would not open or had to be forced open to allow passage.

Under the ordinance, the minimum width allowed between pillars or posts is twelve feet measured at a right angle across the driveway. Also, the thirty feet before and 30 feet after the opening between entry pillars or posts shall be straight, if possible. No archway or other structure would be permitted to span the driveway. In the subsequent amendment, entry pillars, gateposts and gates in connection with a driveway to any property in the Township are required to not exceed eight feet in height.

            The ordinance also regulates driveway gates installed to keep pet animals in and wild animals, primarily deer, out. No action on the part of a property owner is required for non-electrified swinging, sliding or lift gates that do not have a locking mechanism. For electrified mechanical or hydraulic driveway gates of any type that open automatically when a vehicle approaches or a button is pushed or a code is pressed into a keypad, a release lever, accessible from outside the gate, shall be installed.

            Security gates are also addressed in the ordinance. Any gate, that opens by hand or with electric or hydraulic power, that can be locked, shall have an access key placed in a lock-box approved by the Township Fire Official. The keys to the lock-boxes will be carried by Township Police Officers. Combination locks or keypads are not permissible on security driveway gates. Any driveway entry manned by a full time security guard is not required to have a lock-box.

            The ordinance regulating driveway gates and allowable width takes effect on June 12, 2003 . The amendment setting a height restriction for entry pillars, gate posts and gates, shall take effect following publication of its adoption (which was Feb. 25, 2003 , with notice published on March 6, 23003). The requirements for emergency openings of animal control gates and security gates shall apply both prospectively and retroactively. Regulations for the minimum allowable distance between driveway pillars or posts shall apply prospectively from the adoption date.

            A copy of the Ordinance is available from the Township Clerk’s office and is being posted on the town’s web site, www.mendhamtownship.org

                                                                                    (Thanks to P.N.)

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The Mendham Township Recreation Commission is very excited about our New and Improved Brookside Beach. The Commission put together a special committee of volunteers to help with quality issues at the beach. That “Brookside Beach Committee” has been working since October on several new family events as well as upgrading and improving the beach for 2003.

Did you know that the Beach was open this past winter for ice skating? The very cold weather allowed many families to enjoy skating close to home. Special thanks to township Department of Public Works Superintendent Dave Read and his crew.

We also had a “Winter Beach Blues” party as part of our beach kick-off and it was a huge success. We gained more than two dozen new members who will be enjoying the warm weather activities starting soon, and making new friends.

A logo contest was held for our Elementary and Middle Schools and the winner is Carly Morrison. The winning logo will be displayed on T-shirts (to be sold at the snack shack) and on a brand new sign at the end of the Elementary School driveway. Mendham High School Art Club students are also involved with Brookside Beach this year, designing and painting a mural for the snack shack.

New beach director

We have hired a new beach Director -- Jim O’Neil -- who has been a resident of our community for over twenty years. Jim volunteers as a Brookside fireman and teaches history at Hanover High School . He brings years of experience and boundless energy for improving the Brookside Beach .

There will be a Fourth of July picnic with live music at the beach – so, after enjoying the Brookside Parade come on over and join us for food, music, swimming and a heck of a good time! The Beach is a wonderful “party place” too -- we will be taking reservations for year-end school parties and we plan on having outdoor concerts and movie nights this summer.

As a member you automatically receive invitations to these special events. To join your neighbors and friends at the Brookside Beach or for more information call Recreation Department Director Jeanne Montemarano at 973-543-4555 x122. If you have suggestions or would like to serve on the Beach Committee contact Recreation Commissioner Carol Leone at 973-543-0410. WE WANT YOU TO JOIN! Don’t miss out on friendships and fun at the best place to be seen this season.

We’ll Be Looking for YOU This Summer!

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Recreation Dept. News

What’s Coming Up This Spring & Summer?

Showtime! The Recreation Commission and Board of Education are presenting “THE MUSIC MAN,” on Friday through Sunday, April 4th,5th, and 6th. Our Middle School students are putting on this popular musical production. Tickets are $8.00/student, $8.50/adult, presale, and $8.50 at the door based on availability. Call the Recreation Department for reservations – 973-543-4555, ext. 122.

Men’s 40 + Softball: This program begins its fourth season this April. Play goes from April to June. Games are scheduled for Sundays at 11:30am at the Borough Park and Brookside Community Club Field. Each team is responsible for paying a league fee to cover the cost of equipment and umpires. To register an individual or team, contact Daryl Brewster 973- 543-0512 or call the Recreation Department, 973-543-4555, ext. 122.

Babysitting Course: The Smartsitter Babysitting Course will be offered on Thursday, June 26^th at Mendham Township Municipal Building . The course is from 9:00am to 3:00pm and is open to children ages 11-15. Cost is $38.00. For more information and registration, contact the Recreation Director - 973-543-4555, ext. 122.

Swim Team participates in the North Jersey Regional Lake League. It is open to children 5-18 years. The team practices every weekday morning and encourages fun as well as competitive swimming. Swim meets are held twice weekly on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. To register contact the Recreation Department - 973-543-4555, ext. 122.

SWIM TEAM FEES: If you are a member of the beach, swim team registration is $25.00 per child/ $50.00 maximum per family. If you are not a member of the beach, the fee is $50.00/per child, $100.00/maximum per family.

Day Camp: Don’t forget that Mendham Borough offers a Day Camp on weekdays for 6 weeks during the summer. The older children come and swim at Brookside Beach twice a week. More information will be available in the Mendhams Brochure, which will be published shortly. Registration deadline is April 30^th. Contact the Borough Recreation Department if you have any questions - 973-543-2610.

Summer Preschool Program: Children who will be age 4 by May 1, 2003 , will be offered Summer Preschool at the Township Elementary School . The program will take place Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 9:00am - noon , July 7^th through July 18^th. Camp will include stories, arts and crafts, songs and movement. There is a daily “theme” and the craft project reflects the story that was read. Some are educational (but, shhh! don’t tell the children!). A snack is served as well, and is provided by the camp. Registration forms can be obtained in the Recreation office. They must be returned to the Recreation office by April 30^th. All forms will be numbered and then picked through a lottery on May 6th. You will be notified only if your child has been picked for the program. Registration will be limited to 30 children. Call 973-543-4555, ext. 122.

Tennis: Tennis registration will take place Saturday, May 3, 2003 at the Mendham Township Municipal Building from 10:00am to Noon . This year’s new and improved program has a reduced cost and will be taught by tennis pro Sy Engleberg. He runs tennis programs in many of our neighboring communities including, Morris and Rockaway Townships .

We are offering two sessions of lessons, and each session will take place over a two-week time period as follows:

Session 1: 7/15, 7/16, 7/17, 7/22, 7/23, 7/24

 7 – 10 year olds; 12:00 noon to 1:30pm

 11- 13 year olds; 1:30-3:00pm

Session 2: 7/29, 7/30, 7/31, 8/5, 8/6, 8/7

 7 -10 year olds; 12:00 noon to 1:30pm

 11-13 year olds; 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Lessons will take place at the Mendham Borough Tennis Courts. Cost for each session has been reduced to $70.00 or $135.00 for both sessions. A minimum of 15 students per class is required.

Golf Outing: The Recreation Commission will once again sponsor the Annual Golf Outing at Farmstead Golf and Country Club. Come join the fun on Friday, September 26^th. Tee time is 12:00noon. A BBQ dinner and awards will follow. Many door prizes are available. Proceeds to benefit Recreation Facilities in Mendham Township .

Ralston Playground at Wysong Park : Mendham Township is pleased to have the Ralston Playground at Wysong Park . We will be putting the finishing touches on this newly and beautiful playground. Come enjoy the park. Please obey the parking rules and park in designated areas only. Help keep the park beautiful and clean up after yourself.

The Township Recreation Commission also supports the efforts of the Michael Simon Steinberg Foundation in their efforts to offer programs to the teens of our Communities. Please support the programs and projects offered in their name. The eventual goal of the Foundation is to build and operate a Community/Teen Center for the residents of the Mendhams and Chesters. For more information about the Michael Simon Steinberg Foundation contact Robin Steinberg 908-879-6387.

Any questions you may have about the programs noted above or any Recreation Program, or if you do not receive a Mendhams Recreation Brochure by May 1^st, contact Jeanne Montemarano, Recreation Director, at 973-543-4555 ext.122.

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Our Assemblyman helps out

At Last – Some Relief for Seniors

from Increasing Property Taxes

All New Jersey homeowners are reeling from the rising cost of property taxes in their communities, but senior citizens living on fixed incomes are hit hardest by the property tax. Many long-time residents are being forced to move because they can no longer afford increases in property taxes. It is a sad commentary on our society when seniors are literally being taxed out of their homes.

Five years ago, the Legislature set out to end this unfair assault on New Jersey ’s older citizens by enacting a law to freeze property taxes for qualified seniors. When the program was first implemented, it targeted only low-income senior citizens -- an individual making $17,918 or a couple earning $21,970. However, the Legislature wanted to ease the property tax burden for many more seniors across the state. So, two years after the program started, my legislature colleagues and I voted to double the income eligibility threshold, and allow more senior citizens to take advantage of the property tax-freeze program.

The expanded program now sets annual income eligibility limits at $37,174 for individuals and $44,582 for couples. It also includes a provision that increases the eligibility limits by the amount of the annual Social Security cost-of-living increase. This additional provision is to keep seniors from becoming losing eligibility because they receive an increase in Social Security benefits.

In addition to the income requirements, applicants also must meet the following criteria to qualify for the program. An applicant must be:

Ø                  At least 65 years of age or disabled

Ø                  A homeowner or mobile homeowner

Ø                  A resident of New Jersey for at least 10 years who must have owned the homestead for which the property tax reimbursement is sought for at least three years

As we grappled with the multiple hardships often imposed by our property tax system, the Legislature also created the NJSAVER property tax relief program and the Homestead Rebate program, as well as the Property Tax Deduction/Credit program which enables homeowners to deduct a portion of their property tax from their state income tax liability. The State also provides an annual $250 property tax deduction for eligible senior and disabled citizens, and an annual property tax deduction for veterans which is scheduled to increase to $250 this year.

Should you have questions regarding your eligibility or are interested in knowing more about any of these tax relief programs, please contact my office at 12 Old Brookside Road, Randolph, NJ 07869 or call (973) 895-9100.

NOTE: The programs discussed above describe current law in New Jersey . However, as this newsletter goes to press, Governor McGreevey has proposed scaling them back or eliminating them! As your Assemblyman I will work hard to help ensure that does not happen. Nonetheless, I urge every eligible homeowner to take full advantage of these programs, to help lighten the burden of property taxes. In the present economic situation, especially, I encourage you to be included and receive the benefits of this compassionate program as soon as possible.

Richard A. Merkt

(R – Mendham Twp.)

Assemblyman, 25th District

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Update on Joint Library

Mendhams Share New Library Expenses

Officials of Mendham Township and Mendham Borough have signed an interlocal agreement to share the costs of confirming the viability of a proposed site for a new private library that will serve both communities.

Township Committeeman Richard Krieg, a former president of our township library board and now liaison from the Township Committee to the new joint library board, said, “This agreement is important because it is the first official step in a long process. It demonstrates the strong support of elected officials in both towns for this project, and it memorializes our commitment to work with members of the ‘Library of the Mendhams’ board. Most of all, it provides needed funding, estimated at approximately $40,000, to be used for preliminary engineering studies to analyze a particular site for the new library.”

While several locations in both Mendhams have been under consideration for some time, a five-acre parcel of land adjacent to West Field in Mendham Borough seems to have the greatest potential. “This land has been generously offered to our community by the de Neufville family,” noted Rabbi Battey, president of the joint library board, “and the site is centrally located between both towns with direct access from Main Street (Route 24).”

If the studies show the site to be practicable, the joint board will convene a public meeting to continue getting feedback from residents to ensure that the new facility will meet the needs of the community.

The Library of the Mendhams is reaching out to invite all interested persons to participate in the merger process in a variety of ways. Forms on which to indicate your interest are available at the desk in each library.

            Joy Smith

                                                                        Co-chair, Library of the Mendhams

                                                                                    Public Relations Committee

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Environmental Commission, busy as always

New, in Mendham Township Natural Areas

Hikers and walkers in Mendham Township natural areas this spring will find some new features that didn’t exist last year. The Environmental Commission with support from the Township Committee and help from the Department of Public Works has been working to give our residents more to see and do in our preserved lands.

These natural areas, acquired under the Township’s aggressive open space program, offer a wide variety of walking experiences for residents of all ages and physical abilities on some 60 miles of trails. A map of the entire trail network and detailed maps of individual areas within it are available in the Township Office and the Library. The “news” for each natural area follows:

Buttermilk Falls : The flagship of our natural areas continues to receive priority attention to overcome the effects of a failed attempt to develop the tract for housing prior to its acquisition in 1997 by the Township. Some improvements include:

* A new trail (blazed in green) has been constructed. It starts at the Woodchip Trail near the Calais Road entrance and leads to the ruins of the Levi Lewis iron mine, which operated from colonial times to about 1880.

*Interpretive signs have been placed at sites of particular interest including: Lewis Forge, Lewis Mine, Mendham Waterworks, Frog Pond, and Wood Duck Pond.

* A third wetland is under development. Following on the successful development of the Wood Duck Pond and Frog Pond, a new pond is being created near the Mendham Waterworks facilities.

India Brook:

* Provision for diversion of storm water from the main trail was added, to reduce erosion.

·        Interpretive signs have been placed at sites of particular interest,

including Rush Forge, Steep Hill Road Bridge and Bockoven Sawmill.

Dismal Harmony:

* The main trail has been re-blazed in white to designate it as the “main line” of Patriots Path in its route across Morris County . The trail will join with a trail to be constructed through the Clyde Potts property, to connect to the trail system in Randolph Township .

Meadowood Park :

* A bulletin board was erected and a trail map and other pertinent information was posted.

Burnett Brook:

* A bulletin board was erected and a trail map and other pertinent information was posted.

* A second one-mile loop trail has been constructed on the upland portion of the property. The new trail provides a much different walking experience from the wetlands environment in the lower tract.

Seeing Eye, Tempe Wick Reserve and Cold Hill Reserve:

*A grant has been received from the New Jersey DEP that will provide funds to create and mark trails in these properties. Currently no formal trails exist. Some should be completed by spring.

Patriots Path:

* A one-mile section of Patriots Path extending from Cherry Lane in Brookside to Cold Hill Road will be rebuilt over the next year. Heavy bicycle traffic and erosion have reduced some of the pathway to little more than gullies. Grant funds mentioned above will be used. Some improvements should be evident by spring.

In addition to maintaining and enhancing the Township natural areas and trail system, the Environmental Commission is responsible for advising the Township Committee and Township Boards and Committees on environmental issues. The Commission provides information to the public in response to specific requests and through publications available at the Township Office and Library. The Commission also represents the Township on watershed management organizations active in the three river basins draining the Township, and it sponsors the Adopt-a-Byway program for roadside litter pick up, as well as periodic community work-events to improve the Township environment.

The Environmental Commission welcomes comments and questions concerning any of its responsibilities. It can be contacted through its co-chairs Sarah Dean Link (973-543-7744) or SarahDeanL@aol.com – and Ralph Rhodes (973-543-6878) or RRhodes22@aol.com.

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Open Space Committee

The Good News Just Keeps Coming

            Mendham Township has been approved for substantial grant funding for two important Open Space projects. These proposed acquisitions will continue our voter-approved program of adding to our open space inventory, to help limit development, sustain precious water resources, and control municipal expenses.

            1. The first project is for the protection and preservation of the Ralston Mill. The Mill (located at our western border, across from Sammy’s Restaurant) has been on the list of the county’s “10 Most Endangered Historic Sites” for two straight years. Recognizing its exceptional historic value and educational potential, the Mill the Township Committee applied for Morris County open space funds and was granted $400,000 toward the purchase of the property.

            The Mill, best known for the production of applejack, is an outstanding example of a traditional cider mill, with most of its original equipment -- such as presses and conveyors – still in place and awaiting rehabilitation.

            The Township hopes to complete the purchase of the property this spring. That done, trustees of the newly-formed Nesbitt Mill Trust Fund will begin planning for the restoration of the building and its equipment to create an operating museum. When completed, our Nesbitt Mill will be a significant historic attraction and educational resource for not only the township but also the entire county.

            2. The second project is the acquisition of property along Corey Lane . That will connect with land already preserved by the town, to extend a vital “greenway” in an area where development pressure has been increasing in recent years.

            Our goal has always been to help maintain the special feeling, flavor and natural beauty that is Mendham Township , and which is so widely admired.

“Sunset” On Our Open Space?

As you know -- because you voted to approve funding for the township open space trust fund three times over the last 10 years -- our open space is a key reason why Mendham Township is such a municipal gem. Our rural heritage and present semi-rural ambience, our healthy property values, our community-wide interest in a cleaner environment and outdoor recreational areas, all are tightly linked to the protected open space lands we acquire. So we hope, with you, that the sun does not set on our successful land preservation program.

A fixable dilemma

When we approved a second funding referendum for the town’s open space program, in 1998, it included for the first time a “sunset” provision. That meant, unless voters decided otherwise, the town’s open space levy would be ended altogether in 2008 – and, to the same extent, the open space program would be ended as well.

Because we believe you do not want that to happen, we will be seeking your approval on a public question this November to repeal the sunset clause.

Sunset provisions are included in some government programs so the programs won’t be thoughtlessly continued long after their goal has been achieved. In the case of open space in Mendham Township , however, that goal is far from being fulfilled. Additionally, because our open space trust is also paying down costs for properties already acquired, that funding source needs to be sustained.

Our open space serves us many ways: as simple land preservation for “elbow room,” providing protection against excessive property taxes, and through additional recreational opportunities. In order to ensure that your town continues to preserve and enrich our high quality of life with open space, you, the voter, will be asked to say Yes to a new referendum, a simple public question just to repeal the sunset clause. You will see more details in the Observer-Tribune newspaper in coming months, as well as in the October edition of this newsletter.

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Construction Office

Adding-On? Renovating? Replacing?

Do it Safely, Legally -- Get Permits

Why get a Permit?

There are advantages to doing home improvement projects with a building permit. The primary one is that getting a permit brings you the service of the construction department. The inspector approves each phase of the construction process, checking to see that work is done safely and properly.

Second, there are legal and financial liabilities that you face when you don’t get a permit. Work without a permit is illegal and can pose serious complications for you when you try to sell your house. Any fire and homeowner’s insurance you have will be invalidated if you do work without a permit. If there is a fire in your house, the insurance company will use the illegal work as an excuse not to pay on your claim.

Who can get a Permit?

Permits are issued to the owner of the dwelling. Contractors acting as the agent for the owner may handle the permit process and are completely responsible.

What kinds of Permits?

There are four different permits:

(1)   Building permit

(2)   Plumbing permit

(3)   Fire permit

(4)   Electrical permit

Permits are relatively simple to obtain. When you have completed your drawings, simply go to the Construction Office and obtain an application. When you have completed the proper forms for each permit, you submit it with all the necessary drawings. The application will be reviewed and if completed correctly will be issued.

Fees

You will be required to pay a fee for each building, electrical, plumbing, or fire permit before you may start your project.

Inspectors

Please keep this list of names nearby for reference as your project goes forward -- they are the township inspectors available to you by calling the township construction office, and will provide services as follows:

Jeffrey Betz                            Fire Protection Subcode Official

Fred Hansen                           Electrical Subcode Official

Craig Smith                            Plumbing Subcode Official

Russ Heiney                           Building / Construction Official

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Our Crisis Response Team …

Quietly Helping Victims of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is pandemic. It cuts across lines of ethnicity, age, education and religion. In fact, there’s neither a place nor a population segment where it does not occur.

Fortunately in the Mendhams, it is relatively rare. But to the members of our year-old Domestic Violence Crisis Response Team (DVCRT) just one instance is far too many. And they’re dedicated to reducing that number to zero.

What is the Mendham DVCRT?

This is a group of highly trained volunteers drawn from both Mendham Township and Mendham Borough. They work in close coordination with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and with Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS). Its purpose is to provide support and assistance to victims of domestic violence and their families.

Each member of the team is thoroughly trained. An intensive seven-and-a-half week program explores the many issues of domestic violence and assesses the range of services available to victims and their families through JBWS, as well as through other public and private organizations. An ongoing program keeps volunteers informed of the latest laws and their interpretation, and updates them on newly-developed services and techniques for handling a diversity of domestic issues and crises.

How Does the Response Team Help?

The Crisis Response Team offers a variety of services that include:

 * Providing emotional support

 * Assisting in gaining access to protective shelter, where indicated

 * Explaining the dynamics of domestic violence

 * Reviewing Domestic Violence Laws

 * Identifying all available social services

 * Assisting the victim in the preparation of a safety plan for the future

 * Making referrals to the services offered by Jersey Battered Women’s

 Service, Inc.

Through the JBWS, skilled counselors can explain the complexities of domestic violence and help women and their children cope with problems caused by abuse. Support groups help victims gain help and encouragement from others in similar situations. Specific groups include Exploring Your Relationship; Women in Transition, and Strong Mothers - Safe Children. In addition, a spacious and comfortable home is available to provide temporary refuge.

The Response Team attends to more than just the victim. Children, for example, are involved in many domestic violence incidents. It is estimated that three- to ten million children annually witness acts of domestic violence. The Response Team helps the children understand the violence they have seen, dispel any guilt they may feel, and create foundations for achieving caring, non-abusive relationships as adults.

Counseling can also be arranged for the abuser. The ACT Program (Abuse Ceases Today) teaches abusers to take responsibility for their conduct and develops alternatives for expressing feelings and resolving conflicts.

Confidential Services…By Request Only

It’s not surprising that instances of abuse can go unreported. The victim may feel embarrassed, ashamed or confused, and reluctant to involve others in the community. The Domestic Violence Crisis Response Team is aware of these problems, and has developed procedures to assure individual service with complete confidentiality.

When the police respond to a domestic violence situation, they ask the victim if they would like help from the team. If the answer is yes, a member of the team will meet with the victim at Police Headquarters. This secure location insures safety and provides a confidential atmosphere for conversation. Others involved in the incident are never aware of the meeting, and never involved unless requested by the victim.

An advocate will not respond to calls from victims with whom they are even remotely acquainted. This alleviates the risk of potentially embarrassing social situations in the future.

The services of the Crisis Response Team are available anytime. If a victim needs help, a phone call or visit to the local police station will elicit a response. Non-emergency access to help can be particularly beneficial where children are involved, helping to ease the trauma. This also holds true with victims of domestic violence in the workplace. Since almost three-fourths of domestic violence victims are bothered at their place of business, access to help any time is beneficial. And since domestic violence is a pattern of coercion and control, enabling the victim to make the first move to break the pattern is an important step.

If You Need Help – 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week:

Emergency situations: Dial 911

Non-Emergency Mendham Twp Police Dept.               973-543-2581

Non-Emergency Mendham Borough Police Dept                      973 - 543-2527

Jersey Battered Women’s Service, Inc.                         973-267-4763

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Mendham Township Library

Yes! We’re Still Here!

You probably have been reading about plans for a new Joint Library of the Mendhams. While the upcoming merger of the libraries is exciting and full of promise, the current township library continues to improve its services to Mendham residents.

For example, township resident Elizabeth Peters recently ran a fabulous music appreciation program for 2^nd through 4^th graders on Tuesday afternoons at the library. This program was graciously sponsored by the Mendham Recreation Department and explored classical, jazz, international and folk music.

The children used multimedia audio and video library resources to learn about famous composers and gain an understanding of what life was like in olden days by studying illustrations of historical artifacts. They made time-lines and used mapping skills. When studying international music, they made sketches of indigenous instruments and drew pictures illustrating stories from operas. The end result was that each youngster compiled a small reference work about world music. Eighteen children and four helpers participated in this wonderful program. We thank Elizabeth for sharing her time and talent.

If you have an area of expertise and are interested in leading a course or presenting a lecture through the library, please contact Joy Smith at 973-543-0131.

The library also recently completed another of its popular story circles, “Winter Story Time,” which ran from January 21 through February 13.

A series of on-going art exhibits showcasing local talent is currently being featured. This past February the artist was Annette Novoa of Basking Ridge who created “Traditional Watercolors of Nature” with a mixed palette of traditional and non-traditional colors. In March, Mindy Lighthipe of the NY Botanical Gardens exhibited her exuberant botanical paintings. Please stop by to appreciate our present and future exhibits of fine works of art.

On January 21, The State of New Jersey kicked off a statewide reading program to encourage appreciation for books. The first selection for adult readers was Ray Bradbury’s classic, Fahrenheit 451. The selection for young adult readers is Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix. Middle-schoolers should read Regarding the Fountain by Kate Klise, and the book selection for young children is Tacky the Penguin by Helen Lester. The library will have posters and bookmarks promoting this very worthwhile reading endeavor.

A library Spring Cleaning Day was scheduled for Sunday, March 30. Volunteers dusted, spackled, cleaned, tidied up, and generally made our facility look its very best. We hope you notice the difference!

In other news, our former Library Director, Eileen Burnash, has accepted the position of Director at another area library. Eileen’s last day was January 31, after two-and-a-half years at the helm of our library. Our appreciation goes to Eileen for her dedicated service and we wish her good luck in her new venture.

Ours has always been one of the leaders in library usage among small libraries in the state. Last year our library circulated over 45,000 volumes to area residents, setting a new circulation record. The Board and Staff of the Mendham Township Library gratefully appreciate your patronage!

For more information about the Mendham Township Library, its history and its offerings, please visit our website at http://www.gti.net/main/ment

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New feature …

Township Schools Provide Broad Range of Programs

(We are pleased to provide space in this Township Committee newsletter for highlights of activities in our schools. -- Editor)

Our school administrators, teachers and staff work together with wonderful parent volunteers. As a result of their combined efforts, many terrific things of which we can be proud happen at our township schools.

At each grade level our children experience challenging and interesting curriculums directed by a dedicated teaching staff. Our schools also provide supplemental learning opportunities in the form of field trips for all grade levels. We’ve gone to farms, apple orchards, firehouses, plays and musicals, science centers, museums, hospitals and planetariums, among numerous other places.

Thanks to a strong Cultural Arts program we also are able to bring talented performers into our schools, to further expose our children to a wide array of artistic and cultural offerings in music, theatre, visual arts and dance. These workshops, residencies and performances are presented to all grade levels and are planned in conjunction with the school curriculum.

Some of the most fun we’ve had so far this year at the Elementary School has occurred when all the children have participated in school-wide activities. For example, younger students learned that fitness can be fun at an ElectriKids performance, and in our first-ever Mini Marathon . Also, parents and students, surrounded by compassionate donations to the Holiday Giving Tree benefiting chronically ill children, enjoyed the Holiday Sing-a-Long in December. And, of course, the Dr. Seuss “Read Across America” assembly was great educational fun.

Middle School students, too, benefit from a variety of grade-level activities and programs throughout the school year. This winter alone, our students participated in a spelling bee, enjoyed a Winter Awards assembly, a European festival and many wonderful programs at the Morris Museum . Eighth-graders even took a trip to Philadelphia !

A great deal of thought, effort and commitment by kind and enthusiastic individuals goes on in our township schools, to ensure that our children receive the finest educational opportunities. We are all privileged to be a part of the strong school system in Mendham Township .

Anne Durney

Publicity Coordinator,

Mendham Twp. Elementary School

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Local Alliance Offers Alternatives for Youth

The Municipal Alliance of the Mendhams is an organization created for the Mendham Township and Borough community, with funding by the Governor’s Council via the Morris County Department of Human Services. The Alliance ’s purpose is to provide positive alternatives for youths and parents. Programs offer a variety of opportunities for entertainment and recreation designed for young people, and backed by support from parents, schools, churches, synagogues, foundations, agencies, neighborhood associations, volunteers and young people themselves.

Recently the Alliance was successful in helping to sponsor Project Graduation, Battle of the Bands, Peer Mediation, Rainbows, Parenting, and presentations by Dr. Anthony Wolf and Dr. Michael Falon.

Your help is needed

Won't you join us? Working with the Mendhams’ Alliance is interesting, and a stimulating challenge. You’ll help design popular programs for our community while building relationships with other parents. For information about our meetings (usually held in the Mendham High School Guidance Conference Room) or if you have questions about the Alliance , call June Cantwell 973-543-9159.

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First Aid Squad Road Reminder

“Pull over – now!”

Hear that siren? See that flashing red light? That’s a signal for you to pull over immediately. It’s the law, and in Mendham Township our police will enforce it. If it’s a blue flashing light, you can bet that it’s a firefighter or volunteer First Aid Squad member rushing to a call. Please give them a clear path, as well, to help save a life

Imagine someone you love – your child, or spouse – in an ambulance rushing to the hospital, and the ambulance is delayed because traffic ignores the “pull over” law. A delay of even a few seconds could have sad consequences.

Here’s the rule -- When emergency vehicles are approaching, drivers on the road shall:

·        Yield the right of way by pulling over to the side of the road, as close to the right hand edge or curb as possible

·        Remain stopped until the emergency vehicles have passed. (Note: there may be other emergency vehicles following, police cars, MICU, personal emergency vehicles.)

·        Continue through any intersection and stop, and remain stopped, until the emergency vehicles have passed.

·        Do not follow any emergency vehicle responding to an call closer than 300 feet

·        Do not park within 200 feet of fire apparatus stopped to answer a fire alarm

·        Yield the right of way to First Aid and fire personnel displaying a blue light in response to an emergency call

Please -- for the sake of all of us – pay attention at all times, remember these regulations and obey the law. Give volunteer First Aid Squad members and firefighters the courtesy and attention they deserve when responding to a call. Their timeliness of response could literally mean the difference between life and death.

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Brush Collection

Tires, Batteries and Oil Disposal

Submitted by David H. Read, Sr., Superintendent of Public Works

Spring Brush Pick-up             Monday - April 14, 2003

Spring Tire, Battery , Oil Recycling - 8am – 12 noon            Saturday - May 17, 2003

Fall Brush Pick-up        Tuesday - October 14, 2003

Fall Tire, Battery , Oil Recycling - 8am – 12 noon                       Saturday - October 18, 2003

Please ensure that brush is at the side of the road by 7:00 AM , with the ends facing the roadway.

ALL BRUSH BUNDLES MUST BE TIED WITH STRING, NOT WIRE.

BRUSH WILL NOT BE PICKED UP IF IT IS NOT TIED.

Brush bundles should be less than 12” in diameter and less than 6’ in length. No stumps and no logs over 6’ in length or over 6” in diameter will be picked up. All material must fit through the chipper.

BRUSH ALSO WILL NOT BE PICKED UP if lots or wooded areas are cleared either by the homeowner or a contractor. Homeowners and/or contractors must dispose of cleared wood themselves. Town brush pickup is intended for the clearing of brush that has fallen during storms.

It is crucial NOT to include in your bundles any material other than branches, scrub or brush. When wire or metal rods are tucked inside the bundle this damages township equipment, which must then be repaired or replaced with your tax dollars. MOST IMPORTANT, improperly prepared bundles can easily cause serious injury to our workers as the material passes through the chipper.

The Spring Tire, Battery and Oil Collection will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2003 .    

Location: DPW Garage, 40 Mt. Pleasant Road. Hours: 8:00 AM until noon .

Charges are: tires--$2 ea., tires with rims--$6. ea., batteries--$1.ea., oil--no charge.

The township is pleased to continue providing these environmentally-important services to residents and we appreciate your cooperation in helping to ensure safety. If you have any questions please telephone the Dept. of Public Works at (973) 543-4509.

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Recycling is the law

Recycling Is Collected Every Other Monday

Please Have Containers & Bundled Newspapers at Curbside by 6 a.m.

Recycling is required by law. Recycling also lets you reduce the weight of trash you put out for weekly collection, thereby saving you money on your per-bag trash collection fee!*

How to Prepare Newspapers for Recycling

To properly prepare newspapers for curbside collection, bundle them and tie the bundles with string or twine. Keep newspapers separate from all other paper, and do not place them in plastic bags. It is OK to include coupon flyers, glossy special sections and all paper that actually comes with the newspaper.

* (You pay only for the weight of trash you put out for collection. For example, one 15 lb. bag of trash per week will be a mere $31.20 for a full year of trash collection! There is no charge for the truck to stop at your home. To learn more about our bargain trash collection service, call Sue at town hall – 973-543-4555.)

Pick up an illustrated flyer at town hall that describes all recyclable materials, with information on our simplified recycling collection procedure.

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“Catch the Fever!”

MUA Sponsors Thermometer Exchange Program

One of the most dangerous pollutants to our environment is mercury -- which is also the major component of older household thermometers. A NJ Senate bill has been introduced to ban the sale of mercury thermometers. To encourage voluntary removal of mercury thermometers now, the Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA) has launched a “Catch the Fever” Mercury Thermometer Exchange Program.

Mendham Township residents may bring their mercury thermometers to Larry Kessler, Head Pharmacist, Mendham Apothecary, in the Mendham Village Shopping Center . (tel. (973-543-4400). In return, you will receive a free non-mercury thermometer (one per household). Thermometers collected through the exchange program will be sent to a mercury retort facility where the mercury will be safely recycled.

Other pharmacies and municipal offices participating in this program may be found at www.MCMUA.com or by calling the MCMUA offices at 973-285-8394. You may also deliver mercury fever thermometers throughout the year to the MCMUA Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facility (by_appointment_only on most Tuesday, Friday and Saturday mornings). Please call the MCMUA HHW Hotline at 973-829-8006.

The next MUA HHW & Computer/TV drop-off date at a location convenient for township residents will be Saturday, May 10^th at the Morris County Fire Fighters and Police Training Academy , 500 West Hanover Avenue , Parsippany. Dozens of materials that are hazardous to landfills and the environment should be brought in for safe collection. Check the website (www.MCMUA.com) or phone 973-829-8006 for a complete list of acceptable items.

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Board of Health Reminder

Septic System Maintenance

The proper functioning and life of a septic system depends on many factors, including its age, the design of the system, the geology of the property, and the manner in which the system is handled. That last factor is the one over which you have some control, and it is in your best financial and health interest to keep the system functioning in an optimal way.

Some do’s:       locate your system components and keep this information handy; the Board of Health office may have plans on file to assist you;

have your septic tank(s) pumped out by a reputable contractor on a regular basis -- at least every 2-3 years,

Some don’ts: don’t allow heavy vehicles or equipment to drive over the area of your system;

don’t use a sink garbage disposer (they are prohibited in Mendham Township );

don’t put grease, paints or related chemicals, or non-biodegradable objects       down the toilet or sink -- this includes disposable diapers, cigarette filters, kitty litter, and bulky wastes. Even small amounts of some chemicals can destroy the natural bacteria in the system that are essential for decomposition of organic waste;

                        don’t allow surges or unnecessarily high water flows to your system. Sudden surges can cause excessive mixing of the septic tank contents, and may lead to solids or scum being carried over to the absorption field;

                        don’t plant trees or other plantings with large root systems near your system.

These few simple rules can save you thousands of dollars and protect your family’s health. Copy this list and keep it handy, refer to it often, and soon you’ll remember what’s a “do” and what’s a “don’t” when it concerns your home septic system.

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Historic Preservation Committee

(A prior edition of our newsletter carried the photo of Mrs. Post – but without her story, which is now printed below. We apologize for the omission. Madeline Post has lived in this house in Brookside for all of her 98 years. We hope to help her celebrate her 100th birthday next year. – Editor)

Following are excerpts from an oral history interview given by Mrs. Post to the Historic Preservation Committee (HPC) in 1997. The complete interview, as well as fascinating interviews with other long-time Township residents, is available from the HPC to anyone wishing to hear them. – T.T.

A Brookside Reminiscence

by Madeline Post

“When we came to Brookside in 1905, it was a very small community. Everyone knew everyone…and knew all about them. We had no electricity or town well for our water. We each had our own well and used kerosene lamps.

“ Main Street was only a dirt road. It was dusty in the summer. In the winter when we had snow, the men would shovel it. By spring, it was muddy with deep ruts. The township had a machine called a stone crusher. The men would put stones in it – stones sometimes as big as an egg. The machine would crush them, and the men would spread the pebbles on the road. You can imagine what it was like to walk on them. Eventually the stones sank into the mud (so did our shoes) and by summer we had our dusty road again.

The General Store

“We had a small country store (where the Brookside Post Office is today). The post office was a small area on the right near the front. It had a wood frame with boxes for mail, numbers on each of the boxes and a glass panel at the front. We could see if we had any mail, and would ask for it.

“Next to the mail boxes was the penny candy counter where we could buy lollipops, tootsie rolls, red & white barber poles, fudge squares, round peppermints…all for a penny. Next to that was the counter where we were served and where the coffee grinder was. Along the wall were the canned goods.

“On the other side as you came in was the telephone that everyone used. Then a few medicines, ribbons, thread. And in the back were all the yard goods. After that was the rack for bread and large tins of cookies. You could buy a small loaf of bread for 5 cents; a large loaf for 10.

“In the middle was a large potbelly stove. The owner had his desk there. On three sides were benches. The men would gather there at night to talk and play cards. They would stay until the store closed at 10 p.m.

The Church and the Blacksmith Shop

“We had a chapel where on Sunday afternoons one of the ministers from Mendham would come to preach. The Methodist minister would come one Sunday; then maybe the Presbyterian would come the next, and then Episcopalian. We had Sunday School from 2:30 to 3:30 , and church from 3:30 to 4:30 .

“Between the church and the store was the blacksmith shop with two beautiful maple trees in front. There was a ramp leading to a carriage shop on second floor. When they wanted to put the iron rim on the wheel, they would place the rim on the ground. Then they would cut sticks 10” to 12” and place them around the rim. Pour kerosene on it and set it on fire. By the time the sticks had burned, the rim was red hot and they would quickly slide it on the wooden wheel. As it cooled, the metal would shrink, and fit very tightly on the wheel.

News and Neighbors

“Most of the men were farmers or worked in town. The women had dinner ready for them at noon . As soon as the dishes were done, the women would clean up, put on a nice white apron and sit on the porch to sew or read.

“Someone from the other end of town would walk up the street, stop to talk at each house and tell the news she had heard. With each house she would learn more news to pass on as she went down the street. We always knew all the local news.

“People were neighborly. If your tomatoes, corn or anything came in before your neighbor’s, you shared. We had every kind of fruit – apples from early July through the summer to fall and winter apples, all kinds of pears, cherries, peaches, plums, walnuts, and all kinds of berries, grapes, red currants, black currents. People felt free to come by and take whatever they wanted. The women also felt free to borrow coffee, sugar, tea, eggs, or whatever else they needed.

School Days & the Rockabye Baby Railroad

“We had a two-room school. The smaller room was for grades one to four. The larger room was for grades five to eight . The classes were small. Most of the time I was the only girl in class, and there was only one girl in the class ahead of mine. We were invited to all the parties.

“When I first moved here, the teacher – I don’t remember her name, I was too young – boarded at Ed Schenk’s. She got $35 a month and boarded there for $3 a week. That included her laundry, food, and everything else.

“For high school, the Cranes’ oldest son would drive us to Morristown . The oldest children used to tease him because he was young. When it was slippery and we were going up the hills, the boys would swing this way and then that inside the bus, and then we would go up the hill like a wavy line. When it snowed, he couldn’t use the bus, so he’d bring us down the snow-covered roads in the bobsled, and then, on the cleared roads, we’d sit on hay bales and ride to Morristown on the hay wagon.

“We also had our Rockaway Valley Railroad. The train left here at 8 a.m. with the mail and passengers, and came back with mail at 10 a.m. It left again at 4 p.m. with the mail, and came back at 6:00 .

It was called the “Rockabye Baby.” It didn’t go into Morristown . It stopped at a place quite a-ways out called “What Not” station. A stagecoach would meet us and take us to the U.S. Hotel by the Park. They had made an arrangement to let people wait the front room or on the porch.”

(Hawk - Please place the following in a panel below or near the article above)

Does Historic Preservation Interest You?

Then you might enjoy one of our current projects – and we can use your help.

The Historic Preservation Committee is preparing an ordinance designed to help preserve the acclaimed rural/historic character of our town. We’re looking to create a small group of residents to meet with us and help ensure that our recommendations will be effective, and non-intrusive.

If you would enjoy playing an important role in the “historic future” of your town, please call Historic Preservation Committee Chairman Ray Nadaskay at 973-539-5353 (working hours), or 973-543-2280 (evenings).

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Freeholders to Honor Vietnam Vets

Do You Know a Vietnam War Veteran?

As they did in 2001 for WWII veterans and in 2002 for Korean veterans, the Morris County Freeholders have commissioned a special two-sided commemorative medal for presentation to County residents who served on active duty during the Vietnam War era. The medals are surprisingly hefty. Each is about an inch-and-a-half in diameter and 1/8-inch thick, beautifully finished in rich enamel, and suspended on an accompanying ribbon. Also included is a Commemorative Certificate, a clear presentation case, and a small version of the medal to be worn as a lapel pin.

To receive his or her medal, the veteran or someone acting on behalf of the veteran should complete a simple form that is available in town hall, or from Freeholder Jack Schrier. The form asks for the veteran‘s name and address, the branch and dates of service, and a copy of the service record and certificate of discharge or separation from the service. The County Department of Human Services will verify eligibility and the medals will be awarded at a special presentation, date to be announced.

If you are a veteran of the Vietnam War, or you know someone who is, help us to honor these gallant men and women. Stop in at town hall for a copy of the form, or call Freeholder Jack Schrier directly at his office, 973-285-6022.

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Letters for the Newsletter

            Thank you for your letters and comments to the Newsletter. We appreciate hearing from you. We also welcome your photos and ideas for future issues. Write to: Newsletter Editor, Box 520 , Brookside , NJ 07960 .

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Former Mayor Porter Honored

Recipient of “2002 Elected Official” Award

The New Jersey Municipal Manager’s Association has selected former Mendham Township Mayor Katie Porter as a recipient of the association’s “2002 Elected Official Award.” Katie left the Township Committee at the end of last year but still is active as Chairman of our Open Space Committee, member of the Morris County Open Space Trust Committee, and Commissioner on the Palisades Interstate Park Commission. Katie was nominated for the award by our own municipal manager, township Administrator Stephen Mountain who noted, “Mayor Porter qualifies for this award on so many levels it is difficult to summarize them all.

“She is special not only as a municipal leader but as a person, as well. She is a leader not just in the community but within the elected body that she serves. Under her watch the township has achieved a wide range of accomplishments, chief of which has been maintaining a high level of municipal services while holding the line on municipal taxes.

“Mayor Porter is an individual who personifies everything that is right with public service. She is selfless, honest, and committed to the community. Through her high standard of ethics and unyielding belief in ‘doing what is right for the community’ she has earned the full respect and trust of her constituents, political allies and even opponents, as well as the staff she oversaw. In a day and age when such respect is difficult to come by for elected officials, this is perhaps her greatest quality.”

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First Aid Alert

If you or a member of your household has an on-going health issue and/or takes medications on a regular basis, it would be wise to write down all pertinent information on this form, keep it on your refrigerator or another visible place, and KEEP IT CURRENT! Should you ever need to call for emergency medical help, this can save precious time and provide the EMS personnel with information that is often forgotten or unknown at the time of the call. Your current, completed form may help save the life of a loved one.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL INFORMATION

(COMPLETE THIS FORM NOW AND UPDATE IT PERIODICALLY)

Name ______________________________________

Address ______________________________________

Phone # ______________________________________

Date of Birth __________________________________

Physician’s Name and Phone # (if known)

             1.__________________________________________________

             2.__________________________________________________

Drug Allergies                                        

 ______________________________________________________

Food Allergies

             ______________________________________________________          

Medications taken on a daily basis

 ________________________________________

                         ________________________________________

                         ________________________________________

________________________________________                                       ________________________________________

                        ________________________________________

Prior medical history (with dates, if applicable) – Include: surgery, heart attack, angina, cancer, asthma, CHF, COPD, seizures, diabetes, hypertension, strokes, arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, psychiatric illness, other

 ________________________________________

                         ________________________________________

                         ________________________________________

________________________________________                                       ________________________________________

                        ________________________________________

Emergency Contact (name, phone, relationship)                        

Date: _______________ Signature: ______________________________

                                                 (Patient / Caregiver - circle one:)

Please also have Social Security number and health insurance information

readily available, as these will be requested at the hospital

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