Columns/Opinions

Thu
28
Mar
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No Dumping!

No Dumping!
No Dumping!

Anyone who has been to Livingston’s Senior/Community Center likely knows of the issue we are about to discuss. The littering behind the building has once again gotten out of control.

People (Residents? Business owners? Others who live outside of town?) are dropping off electronic and bulk items behind the property where it is illegal to do so and forcing town employees to deal with the mess.

There are now very clear signs indicating that this dumping is illegal, as well as mentioning a $2,000 fine that would be incurred for those caught doing so. It is worth noting, too, that another sign mentions that the area is now under 24-hour surveillance, so anyone caught illegally dumping should be fairly easy to track down.

Thu
21
Mar
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Celebrating Our History

This week, the West Essex Tribune presents its bi-annual “Celebrate Livingston’s History” section. It is one of our most popular features, in part because it speaks to our township’s sense of community; no matter who we are, we live here, together, in Livingston, and we all share that common thread.

As always, our “Celebrate Livingston’s History” section contains interesting tidbits about the history of our town and its residents: stories of beloved, but now defunct institutions; tales of the founding families who gave their names to our streets and schools; and old photos and news articles that provide insight to what Livingston was like back “in the old days.”

Thu
14
Mar
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Keep Public Records Open

This week, March 10 through 16, is Sunshine Week. It occurs every year in March, coinciding with James Madison’s birthday, on March 16, which is also National Freedom of Information Day. The week, and that holiday, seek to shine a light on the importance of open government. How sad it is, then, on this of all weeks, that the New Jersey Legislature is once again taking aim at our state’s Open Public Records Act, better known as OPRA.

Abill, S2930/A4045, was introduced on March 4, sponsored by Senator Paul Sarlo (D-36), and was heard just one week later. This fast-moving bill would be a devastating blow to the Open Public Records Act in New Jersey. As a result, several notable organizations have denounced it, including the American Civil Liberties Union, and the League of Women Voters. The editorial boards of North Jersey and the Star-Ledger have also spoken out in opposition to the bill.

Thu
07
Mar
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Affordable Housing Bill

At the latest Township Council meeting on February 26, members discussed A-4, a state Assembly bill that recently passed and could affect Livingston’s future affordable housing plans.

Specifically, A-4 is a planned overhaul of the current affordable housing system. It would abolish the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) and give its regulatory power to state-run agencies. If towns follow the guidance of the state, they would be immune to the builder’s remedy lawsuits that have threatened towns - including Livingston- during previous affordable housing rounds. Governor Phil Murphy has previously stated his approval of the bill, which will now move to the Senate, under bill S50 Sca(lR).

Wed
28
Feb
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Welcome to Livingston’s Community Newspaper!

While the West Essex Tribune’s regular readership will not notice any changes to this week’s issue (other than a larger page count), some are picking up our paper for the first time. This week’s edition is what we in the Trib office call a “TMC,” which stands for Total Market Coverage. It is the first of four newspapers this year that we will send to every residence in Livingston, whether or not you subscribe. So for those who are new, allow us to tell you why this paper is worth reading as you wait for your coffee to finish brewing.

Wed
28
Feb
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Michael’s Musings

I have always enjoyed board games, but rarely do I have the opportunity to play them. Growing up, my parents weren’t big fans, and I could only rely on my brother and neighbors to play on a rainy day. I had to wait until college to find a group of friends who really enjoyed a good game of “Catan.” Now, my wife humors me on occasion, but playing a game is never her first, second, or third choice of activity when the kids finally fall asleep. And we rarely have the free time to host a game night. But now, at long last, I have two budding board game partners.

In the past six months, my threeyear- old boys have become obsessed with board games. They started with the basics, games like Hi-Ho Cherry O and Candyland. But the real fun started after Christmas, when I gave them Trouble. We weren’t sure if it would be too soon for them to understand a “real” game with more rules and (minimal) strategy, but they took right to it, especially Henry.

Wed
28
Feb
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Rob-servations

As the newest staff member at the West Essex Tribune, I’ve spent my first month learning as much as I could about Livingston, its history, and what makes this township special. Among the interesting tidbits I learned, I was shocked to discover that many celebrities were born and raised within Livingston’s borders. Sure, there are some A-listers everyone has heard of like Chelsea Handler, Jason Alexander, and Wendy Williams, but there are many more.

New York Times Bestselling author Harlan Coban graduated from Livingston High School, but he was not the only acclaimed writer to receive an LHS diploma.

Underground horror author Jack Ketchum was a pen name for Livingston’s Dallas William Mayr. Described by Stephen King as one of the scariest writers of all time, some of Ketchum’s notable credits include The Girl Next Door. Offspring, and Off Season.

Thu
22
Feb
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Volunteer As a First Responder

While we are on the topic of applying to be a first responder in town, let us also give a shout out to the Livingston Fire Department (LFD) and the First Aid Squad (LFAS), both of which are volunteer organizations looking for new members.

Residents can go to livingstonfire.org to learn more about what it takes to join the LFD, which needs additional members in the next few years in order to remain a volunteer organization. A contact page is listed on the website for those with questions about what it takes to join the department.

For the First Aid Squad, any resident is able to join; in fact, LFAS will provide the training in first aid skills such as CPR. A brief questionnaire, available at lfas.org, is the first step in the process of joining the squad.

Thu
22
Feb
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Police Department Openings

With several retirements so far this year, and more to come, the Livingston Police Department is currently accepting applications for entry-level police officer positions.

Three long-serving Livingston Police officers, Captain John Drumm, Sergeant Michael Herbert, and Officer Ralph Kolbusz, all retired from the department last month. Three more, including Captain Tom Smith, are expected to leave the department by May, as well.

Thu
15
Feb
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Michael's Musings

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With apologies to “Miss Rachel” and “Paw Patrol,” two of the few children’s shows I find somewhat tolerable, as well as “Sesame Street,” which my kids sadly don’t really care for, there is one program my three-year-old boys watch that stands head and shoulders above the rest. In a world of mind-numbing drivel (watch “Blippi” or “Cocomelon” at your own risk), “Bluey” is a beacon of light in the dark sea of children’s entertainment.

Anyone who has watched a few episodes of “Bluey” likely understands. For those who haven’t, I’ll try to explain: The seven-minute episodes follow a family of anthropomorphic heeler dogs living in Brisbane, Australia - Mom, Chilli; Dad, Bandit; and children, fouryear- old Bingo and six-year-old Bluey - through playtime, errands, housework, school, and vacations. The episodes are typically scored to classical music, including some of the most famous works in history and original compositions made for the show.

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