Letters to the Editor for the week of Nov. 24

Three-acre zoning

was a better plan
To the editor:
   At Springfield Township Planning Board hearing held on Nov. 15, the professional hired planner said, there are 4,400 developable acres left in the township, with 682 acres of farm land waiting for preservation approval.
   If the approvals were acted upon, there only would be 3,718 acres remaining as developable. He also said, "Only 75 percent of that could be counted because of setbacks, soil failures, clearance from stream and creeks and areas needed for access roads." We also know there is a commitment by The Helis Stock Farm to never develop or put their lands into preservation of any kind. They are on record to self-restrict their lands to farming forever. Therefore, the developable acreage really is 3,718 minus 2,050 (Helis) or 1,668 acres. Now 75 percent of that would equal 1,251 acres developable according to the planner’s numbers.
   If we were to keep our current 3-acre zoning that would result in 1,251 divided by 3, or 417 building lots. The new zoning plan, as presented, would allow for 560 building lots. This new scheme does not preserve ourtownship. It calls for more houses and would result in hardship for all the residents.
   The Professional Springfield Township Hired Planner’s Numbers proves out the contention, "The existing zoning we fought for has worked and would continue to preserve our township."
Roger Lord
Springfield Township
Navy veteran disappointed

in candidate’s campaign
To the editor:
   After reading the (letter) by Mr. Kocubinski in the New Egypt Press and Register- News, I can see that he is still campaigning for an office after losing for the third time.
   Many times in my life facing circumstances I have fallen back on my Navy background and looked upon many of my Naval heroes for guidance and leadership; coupled with the values instilled in me by my parents and mentors throughout the years.
   Of course Mr. Kocubinski has a right to his views but there are a few items that need to be addressed in proper context as to give the correct appearance to his campaigning/allegations.
   As a decorated combat military veteran I have some issues with innuendoes and feel they must be addressed.
   This year, we started seeing our American flag flying from the port and starboard side of your large political campaign signs. It was on not just one sign but also every sign that you stuck in the ground. You misused the American flag for your own self-promoting political campaigning.
   The United Stated of America Flag code Title 4, chapter 1 states many things you can not do with our flag, including: The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner whatsoever. Advertising signs should not be fasten to a staff or halyard from which the flag is flown.
   After your ignorance for the proper etiquette of the American flag, I question how you can even think of re-running. Each town meeting is start with the Pledge of Alliance to the flag and you have to take an oath of office swearing to protect this flag. How can you do this after this abuse of our flag?
   You say, who am I to say this. I served this country of ours for faithfully and honorably for 23 plus years. I retired as a Master Chief Petty Officer/ Lieutenant Commander (Limited Duty Officer). I served three tours in-country South Vietnam with the Riverine Forces. I sailed the oceans of the world keeping the flag flying during times of troubles. (My) commanding officer called me a sailor’s sailor, a warrior’s warrior and would sail in harm’s way with me. I’m a decorated combat veteran and I am sworn to protect the flag and not let it be abused. This is leadership.
   I have told that it is time we all start to get more involved in our town. Your time is over. It always amazes me that anything can be accomplished at the town meeting with the negativism, undermining and trickery that is create by sour grape crew at the township meetings. Us citizens would be a lot better off if you work together for the better of all of us. The "watch" is set, and the residents will gladly be the "watchmen/women." We do not want to return to the old days of ruling with you and your crew.
   God bless our country, military and the American flag.
   Paul Reuter
North Hanover
Resident grateful

for flu clinics
To the editor:
   The following is a letter sent to Robert Gogats, Burlington County Health Officer.
   I would like to thank you, and the members of your department for the opportunity to receive my protection against influenza at the program conducted on Thursday, Nov. 17 at the Burlington County Eco-Complex located in Mansfield Township.
   The staff members, conducting this program, are to be commended for their courtesies, professionalism and dedication.
   The organization of this particular program was outstanding.
   This is just another one of the wonderful programs and services rendered to Burlington County residents.
   It is a comforting feeling to live in a county that has concern for the well being of their constituents.
   Ernest Dubay
Columbus
Salvation Army seeks

support from community
To the editor:
   This has been one of the busiest and most devastating hurricane seasons in recent history. The outpouring of compassion, support and prayers has been nothing short of awe-inspiring. I’d like to sincerely thank our generous donors for their support of The Salvation Army’s relief efforts on the Gulf Coast. In New Jersey alone, donor support for the Army’s relief effort amounted to more than $3 million, which in part has helped to assist more than 1,260,000 hurricane victims.
   And as we move into the holiday season, I’d like to ask for your continued support of The Salvation Army. You see, needs in our local communities have risen by leaps and bounds and we anticipate that they will continue to grow over the winter season as people are challenged by higher utility bills, the cost of affordable housing and the cost of commuting. For some, food and heat may become a luxury rather than a staple of life.
   Inevitably, giving declines after a major disaster but our local needs do not. I’d like to ask for your continued support from our donors when encountering our red kettle bell ringers or when receiving a mail solicitation. It is only with the public’s support that we will be able to continue our programs for the needy in our communities.
   Once again, thank you for your support of the Gulf Coast hurricane victims and please help The Salvation Army as we enter a critical fund-raising season that supports our programs all throughout the year.
   Major Stephen Banfield
NJ State Commander