Run for Alli, Homicide Update — Top News in Union County Patch Towns This Week
The top news stories of the week of August 12-18, 2012.
Photos: Runners Unite for Allison Lowenstein
Runners of all ages took one or more laps around Tamaques Park Saturday afternoon as part of the "Fun Run for Alli Low." In mid-July, Allison Lowenstein, 21, of Westfield, was hit by a motorist who fled the scene while she was jogging in Harriman State Park, NY. A cross country runner, Lowenstein sustained serious injuries but friends were happy to report Saturday that Alli is getting stronger every day. Proceeds will benefit the Lowenstein family. Those who are interested in contributing can visit http://www.indiegogo.com/funrunforallilow .
Vera Pecoraro Homicide Investigation is Ongoing in Clark
Now more than a month after the death of Clark's Vera Pecoraro, the Union County Prosecutor's Office and Clark Police Department report that the investigation into the homicide is ongoing and they have no more information to release as of yet. Patch continues to receive many requests for updates on the case and will continue to report back periodically. Pecoraro, 73, was found with her throat slit on July 7 at her home on Rolling Hill Way in Clark. Police say there was no sign of forced entry into the home and they believe she knew her attacker.
Scotch Plains Water Main Break Questions Addressed at Council Meeting
Representatives from New Jersey American Water fielded questions and comments from residents and town council Tuesday. Their presentation prompted a more than 40-minute dialogue about the recent water main break.
RNC Delegate Bill Palatucci Looks Forward to Tampa
Republican National Committeeman Bill Palatucci, 54, of Westfield, is attending the Republican National Convention later this month to support presidential candidate Mitt Romney, whom he believes has the experience "to address the country's fiscal crisis by downsizing government, reforming the tax code and reducing the federal deficit." Palatucci said he is looking forward to a "great time" in Tampa, Fl. where he will listen to his close friend and former law partner Gov. Chris Christie deliver the keynote address.
(Video) Westfield Resident: Turf Field Proposal 'Doesn't Add Up'
Turf fields have been a hot topic in many Patch towns in Union County. Westfield resident Scott Robb spoke with Patch about his opposition to the proposal of the lighted turf field in Westfield. Click here to view videos in which Robb discusses his concerns.
Meanwhile....
Garwood Council Approves Athletic Field Complex Bond Ordinance
A standing-room-only crowd turned out once again at Garwood Borough Hall Tuesday night as council voted five to one to approve a bond ordinance that will provide funding for the borough’s long-planned Athletic Field Complex.
New Providence Sidewalk Project Moves Forward With $180K Grant
Council received grant from New Jersey Department of Transportation. Under grant criteria, construction must begin on Oct. 15 and end on Nov. 30.
Berkeley Heights Police Investigating Suspicious 'Landscaper'
A man offered to cut trees at female resident's home. When she called for her husband, the man quickly left. The suspect described as Hispanic, 5'10", 150 lbs, thick black hair.
Emergency Workers Will Host Fundraiser to Assist One of Their Own
Proceeds from an event planned for this evening will be used to assist the Bilson family of Cranford, whose home was destroyed in a fire on June 24.
Landscaping Truck Hits Phone Lines, Tips Over in Clark
The truck became ensnared in the lines while making a turn, according to witnesses. No on was injured.
Police Began Drunk Driving Crackdown Friday
Officers in towns around Union County — and throughout New Jersey — will conduct sobriety checkpoints and roving patrols, looking for motorists who may be driving while intoxicated.
Court Rules Drivers Liable for Minors Not Wearing Seat Belts
New Jersey Superior Court upholds ruling that drivers can be prosecuted if a minor passenger in their vehicle is not wearing a seat belt at the time of a crash.
For Assemblywoman Muñoz, Patient Transportation Bill Relates to Personal Experience
Assemblywoman Nancy F. Muñoz has said that her backing of a May patient transport bill was influenced by the death of her husband, Assemblyman Eric Muñoz, who tragically passed after suffering a heart ailment in 2009. She said her husband didn't have access to the specialty care unit he needed. Muñoz represents several towns in Union County.
Route 22 Shop Says "50 Shades of Grey" Is Great for Business (Video)
With the book doing millions in sales, it's helping to boost sales of certain items at a local shop.