Vote Craig Cayetano First For Hawthorne Town Council: He’s The #1 Pick For Our Environment
I have been an environmental activist for over 20 years. For example, I stood up to protect clean water, ban fracked gas and stop pipeline construction. As a student at Bergenfield High School, I created the Environmental Science club and served as its first president. This work is truly in my DNA. Our campaign for Hawthorne Town Council is the first Independent Green Party campaign in New Jersey to ever receive endorsements from the Sierra Club NJ Chapter and the NJ League of Conservation Voters. We are proud that they support our robust and future-focused platform.
I am also a proud member of our Hawthorne Green Team, an extension of our Environmental Commision. I proposed and participated in our very popular polystyrene drives. Since the 2019 Ward 3 race, our campaign has been centered around the environment and implementing green sustainability and infrastructure. We advocated for installing solar panels by borough hall and at our municipal pool, installing charging stations to help bring new business and clientele to town and working to rotate in electric police vehicles to upgrade our fleet.
This year’s at large council race brings even more ideas separating us from both major parties and their candidates. Here are some bold and proactive ideas to benefit all Hawthorne residents. These ideas should convince you to break from the conventional “line” and consider voting Row D Column 10, choosing us 1st for Town Council:
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We are the only campaign proactively looking at creating a sub-committee to implement our own trash removal program. We could work now to secure $1.2-$2 million in grant money for electric garbage trucks like those in Bergenfield and Jersey City. This way, we would be a community that leads by setting the bar high for an environmental and quality life win for our residents.
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We have experienced serious flooding this year, including areas that never before flooded. We are the only campaign calling on utilizing green infrastructure techniques. We ask the county to inspect and upgrade our 80-to-90-year-old catch basins. We need to utilize these techniques and find ways to mitigate flooding around major arteries of town.
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We support clean and safe drinking water for all in Hawthorne. How can any person or party claim to be focused on “Environmental or Green Initiatives'' if you wait almost a year to react to the NJDEP mandates set forth last April around the PFOS and PFAS in our drinking water? This was published April 7, 2020. “When the rule is finalized, it will require public water systems to start sampling for the three chemicals in the first quarter of 2021. Some are already doing so, and the compliance of all utilities will be eased by the fact that they have been required to test for PFNA since January 2019, making them familiar with PFAS-testing protocols, Carluccio said. “We encourage all water systems to go ahead and proactively sample for PFOA/PFOS so that they can install treatment systems if needed sooner rather than later,” she said.
It was nine months since Governor Murphy signed this into law. The borough offered the public a presentation and notified us of what the plans were going to be. Our current administration and council had almost a year to proactively greenlight and propose budgeting to fund this project. Now it’s been over a year since the law was signed. Hawthorne residents will be paying inflation rates to upgrade our water system since final bidding hasn’t taken place yet. In fact,on the Hawthorne website it could take until 2023 to have the system installed. You can read more on their timeline here: https://www.hawthornenj.org/525/Hawthorne-Water-System-Update---PFAS
We will gladly take the baton and pledge to work immediately on the matters mentioned above. As the Independent Green on the ballot, choosing us first brings a different perspective, fresh ideas and accountability! We will advocate for everyone as your at-large councilman. Vote Craig Cayetano first for Hawthorne Town Council on Election Day, Row D Column #10! You can read more about our campaign and the endorsements from NJ LCV and Sierra Club NJ Chapter. Plus follow us on Facebook: Cayetano4council, Instagram: @Cayetano4council and Twitter: @Green4Hawthorne.
Vote Craig Cayetano First For Hawthorne Town Council: He’s The #1 Pick For Our Local Businesses
One area that I want to work to improve in Hawthorne when elected to Town Council is support for our local businesses. I have had first hand experience in a variety of industries throughout my life, first as a child helping both my mother and grandmother in the service industry, then as a self-trained veterinary technician, a customer sales representative, a barista, a product trainer, a social media manager and a retail sales advisor.
I lived and learned how all these industries are vital to our community and all need to be respected and valued. I fully understand and respect the time, hours, stress and responsibilities that each role entails. I want the best for our expanding community and can use these experiences to assist our current business owners.
I learned compassion, understanding and accountability as a veterinary technician. I learned how to compromise and to listen before responding when circumstances and issues would arise in retail.
I have now been in retail sales for over twenty years with the same company for almost sixteen. I take to heart the relationships I’ve made with my clients, some who are friends now, A lot of them are small business owners. I also have handled social media accounts and pages for all major platforms. I always try to find solutions and can navigate through tough negotiations. These are all assets to a role as important as town council. Whether I’m working with our Hawthorne Environmental Commision/Green Team or as a board member of our Passaic County SPCA I always try to offer new ideas and perspectives while focusing on the mission of each organization.
When elected to council I won’t have conflicts of interest and will be able to cast votes on all agenda items presented unlike some of the others running for town council this year. If you want an advocate for small businesses, someone that will be able bridge the divide amongst the parties already elected and want someone that can cast a vote on every resolution, ordinance or bill that comes up for a vote then you ought to choose Craig Cayetano For Hawthorne Town Council. Vote Craig Cayetano first for Hawthorne Town Council on Election Day, Row D Column #10! You can read more about our campaign and the endorsements from NJ LCV and Sierra Club NJ Chapter. Plus follow us on Facebook: Cayetano4council, Instagram: @Cayetano4council and Twitter: @Green4Hawthorne.
Cayetano For Council Offers Hawthorne Residents Election Day Electric Car Rides To The Polls
The Cayetano For Council Campaign once again is offering on Election Day to our Hawthorne residents that need assistance in getting out to the polls a free ride there in an electric car. Craig Cayetano not only promotes a green and sustainable lifestyle but actually lives by it as well. This is a great way to connect residents to the campaign platform which advocates installing charging stations in key locations of the town to benefit our businesses and those looking to migrate to an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle. Cayetano said, “I have spoken with a few residents that said they weren’t sure if they would have transportation to get out to the polls the last few weeks while going door to door. I offered them then to call our campaign phone number and let us know if they really need a ride. I mentioned that this gesture would be free with absolutely no obligation to vote for us. I just want to make sure they have a chance to act on their civic duty and can participate in the upcoming election.”
The campaign is asking for residents to RSVP by calling or texting their campaign phone number #973-433-6696 to schedule a time. Polls open on Election Day starting at 6am-8pm and the campaign will accommodate as many people as it can that call and request this service. You can read more about our campaign and the endorsements it has received from NJ LCV and Sierra Club NJ Chapter. Plus follow the campaign on Facebook: Cayetano4council, Instagram: @Cayetano4council and Twitter: @Green4Hawthorne.
Vote Craig Cayetano for Town Council #10-D First If You Want What is Best for Hawthorne
I have never written a letter to the editor before, but I have never felt so strongly about a candidate for the Hawthorne Council at Large as I do about Craig Cayetano. I have lived in Hawthorne for over 25 years, and it is a great place to live. However, it feels like the same issues and complaints year after year with nothing much changing. I never knew the politicians working for Hawthorne, they were names and faces in photo ops. That was until I met Craig.
I met Craig when organizing a solidarity event for Hawthorne to acknowledge and address social injustices for people of color. I learned through him that I could attend the Hawthorne Council Meetings virtually to understand what has going on in town. I saw and heard him at every meeting I attended.
I saw Craig picking up disposable masks and gloves that were carelessly discarded in parking lots of his own initiative at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. I saw him out clearing storm drains to prevent flooding and asking others to do the same. I saw him as a member of the Hawthorne Environmental/ Green Team volunteering to help clean up the Hawthorne Gateway to the Passaic Project. I saw him coordinate collections of food staples and their delivery to shut-ins during the start of the pandemic. I saw Craig join voices with others at a Pride event that looked to bring the Pride flag out of the “closet” (window of the municipal building). I learned that Craig is a board member of the Passaic County SPCA. He was instrumental in partnering with Martha’s Pantry to provide pet food from the PC SPCA pet pantry to those in need during the Martha’s Pantry distribution days.
As a candidate for Hawthorne Council in Ward 3 Race in 2019, Craig dedicated his Sunday mornings to make himself available to residents of Hawthorne at various local establishments. By doing so he was available to hear peoples concerns as well as raise visibility for Hawthorne businesses. Something he has repeated during the current campaign.
I now know Craig as more than a photo op. He has been out there doing and delivering for Hawthorne for years. Not because he must but because he sincerely cares about the people of this town and because it is the right thing to do. He is unlike any political candidate that I have heard of or known.
Craig is leading by example. He is about new ideas. Craig is about what is best for Hawthorne. Please make your first vote for Council at Large for Craig Cayetano.
Hawthorne Election 2021 Ask the Candidates Part 3: Craig Cayetano for Council-at-Large
Where are your favorite places to go around town?
I love when we host our bird walks since I get to use my binoculars. I like to patronize a lot of our businesses. I am sometimes quiet when I do go out, but I am glad to be out in our community as often as I can be. I am very proud of the friendships I’ve made with a lot of our local owners. I always enjoy our county park and scenic views from up on hills.
What can be done to update or modernize Hawthorne’s awareness of the condition of crumbling curbs in certain neighborhoods, pot-holes in roads, and other infrastructure maintenance issues so that they can be efficiently addressed?
I am proud of the work our administration has done to secure grants for a lot of recent road projects since I started attending council meetings these past three years. This work needs to continue, and any new projects need to incorporate green infrastructure and elements to mitigate flooding. This year alone we’ve had a few major floods in parts of town that never have flooded before. I thank our Hawthorne Fire Department for always putting their lives on the line to help us all. They made some amazing rescues this year due to the weather and flooding, but I want us to become proactive in addressing our aging infrastructure. These elements are not going away so when we are upgrading sidewalks or roadways we need to implement rain gardens, tree filter boxes, bioswales, stormwater planters and permeable pavements. As your councilman I would also take on the task to inspect, have cleaned and possibly upgrade our catch basins with the county and state. Some of this infrastructure is eighty to ninety years old! We have installed rain gardens before at the library and our Gateway to the Passaic River project. Now we need to do more around the heart of our town. All of these options can help to prevent flooding issues that are starting to hinder our town. I would also like to get the community involved and have them adopt a storm drain. This is another way to educate and connect the importance of the issue.
With the increase in new housing developments in town over the years and those under construction, some residents are concerned about the potential strain on the schools and traffic. What is your response to this?
Traffic and congestion is at an all-time high and even at the last council meeting they revealed that the traffic study Lidl did for the upcoming grocery store came back as an F. What we cannot have as mentioned above are roads flooded and hindering commutes going forward. If any new projects are proposed then these traffic study’s need to occur in peak seasons where normal commuting occurs. A lot of the development has already been approved, but I would call on a moratorium for any new projects. I truly want to maintain the open and green spaces we still have here! We don’t know the long term impacts this will have on the community and environment. Let’s work to fill the existing empty storefronts and commercial real estate.
I’ve called on laying a safe bike pathway throughout town with bike corrals at key locations to help migrate to biking around safely instead of having to drive. Other towns are already implementing this, and it’s time for Hawthorne to as well.
During the water-boil advisory, a number of residents complained that they did not receive notification while others did. What can local government do to improve communication with residents in the event of a matter of immediate concern?
Yes, a lot of residents are not on social media or signed up for the Nixle alerts. The administration and council did a poor job at the time of notifying, but they admitted this when I brought these issues up at the next council meeting. They said they could’ve done more. I wrote a letter to the editor which compiled questions proposed on social media and that were messaged to me. They could’ve done a reverse 911 or even have the police drive around with a megaphone. As your councilman we will be better prepared next time. You can read what I wrote to TAPinto here:
Hawthorne Election 2021 Ask the Candidates Part 2: Craig Cayetano for Council-at-Large
What is a hidden gem of Hawthorne?
We have so many gems here and too many to mention. I have mentioned numerous businesses in the past and look at them as “destinations.” This means people travel from out of county or even out of state to patronize them. I am glad to see more opening up, and we have to work on replacing those that close. I know it hasn't been easy on most businesses during this pandemic, so I have proposed we work on a “Dining On Diamond Bridge” initiative for next year. So the gem I would have to say is the Hawthorne Towncast. This podcast has let people across the globe learn about Hawthorne’s people, businesses and organizations. This social media reach and exposure from the Towncast will truly help to drive even more people to our destinations.
If you could change one thing about Hawthorne, what would it be?
We are becoming a younger and more diverse town per the recent 2020 Census results. So I want a more diverse and inclusive Hawthorne and that is why I am running to be elected to Town Council. I would proudly like to become our first elected LatinX member on the council. We also need more diversity, ideas and fresh faces appointed to our town committees. I would call on whoever our new mayor is to do the same when he appoints people at the beginning of the year.
Are Hawthorne residents getting the best value for what they pay for in town?
Hawthorne residents always deserve more. Growing up in Bergen County towns which always were higher and cost more for residents I can see that anyone would doubt where their money is best spent. I would work to show the tangible benefits from our programs. I want to maintain and even offer more services for our residents.
I am the only candidate proposing to set up a sub-committee to investigate bringing trash removal back in house. I would like to study and see if we could secure a $1.2 million - $2.0 million dollar grant like Bergenfield and Jersey City for electric garbage trucks. I would like to see if we could expand our DPW to handle this work since subcontracting out has led to constant truck breakdowns, accidents, leaks, skipped stops and lawsuits from other companies. I think we need to look at all options on the table and prepare before this next contract is up. You can read about this and the rest of my platform here:
https://www.cayetano4council.com/craig_s_vision_to_move_hawthorne_forward
Do you think our downtown is healthy and successful? What changes, if any, would you make, and how?
Our downtown has seen some improvements. Some newer businesses are successful and are “destinations” but then there are other parts of town and businesses that are still struggling coming out of the pandemic. I’ve been in retail sales for twenty one years and some of my best clients are small businesses owners. I would gladly work with any business in town to identify their strengths and work through their weaknesses. As mentioned above the “Dining On Diamond Bridge” and shop local property tax back program I propose will be a benefit to businesses as well. There are resolutions and ordinances that other towns and cities have passed to prevent empty stores on main streets of towns. I would consider any and all options.
Craig Cayetano Announces ‘Coffee With Craig: Let’s Talk & Share Our Vision For Hawthorne’s Future’ at Carlos’s Bagel Shop
As we approach the last weekend before Election Day November 2nd, The Cayetano For Council campaign announces its last “Coffee With Craig” event. It will be held at one of Hawthorne’s newest establishments, Carlos' Bagel Shoplocated at 438-440 Lafayette Ave. Hawthorne, New Jersey, from 9:30-10:30am Sunday, October 31.
The campaign has hosted these events since the first Ward 3 race back in 2019. Now, as the final stretch for this year's at-large race comes into focus, the campaign wants to feature one more local event to truly give residents with questions a reason to come out, talk, and get answers.
Hopefully, this will give them even more reason to choose and vote for Craig as their first pick for Hawthorne Town Council. Cayetano said, “I am glad to host this at Carlos’ Bagel Shop. I was waiting for them to open and asked about them at a few council meetings. I know the whole community has been excited to eat here and help patronize them. We have offered a bold vision for Hawthorne since 2019 and love hearing questions about where we stand on important issues. Plus it's an opportunity for everyone else to try their fresh coffee on behalf of the campaign.”
The campaign will be there from 9:30am-10:30am to meet with residents. If you want to attend the campaign is asking for you to RSVP through their Facebook event link here: https://fb.me/e/1Q7ytYJGv
They will have materials and lawn signs for those still looking to place one in their yard. Afterward, they will hit the streets for more canvassing ahead of Election Day on Tuesday, November 2.
If you can’t attend, you can always reach out to the campaign via phone, (973) 433-6696, or email, [email protected]. You can read about the campaign’s platform and endorsements at: Cayetano4council.com, Facebook: Cayetano4council, Instagram: @Cayetano4council and Twitter: @Green4Hawthorne.
Hawthorne Election 2021 Ask the Candidates: Craig Cayetano for Council-at-Large Part 1
What kind of programs, organizations, or community activities have you been involved with in Hawthorne?
I’ve been a member of our Hawthorne Green Team for over three years now. We are always doing great work there. I’m proud of the polystyrene drives we hold now which was one of my ideas. This has made a big impact by taking a material which most people just threw away and informing them that it can be repurposed. We have held amazing Cel-Earth-Bration events and Green Fairs educating about the need for public electric vehicle charging and to migrate towards plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles. I’ve promoted cleanup efforts around town, 8 acre woods, clearing your storm drains and in winter to clear your closest fire hydrants. I’m working on more ideas to implement through the Hawthorne Green Team which through the Environmental Commission has maintained its Sustainable Jersey Silver ranking. This is a team effort and I am just proud to be a part of it.
I was proud to be a co-organizer of our Solidarity With BLM March last year. I invited numerous speakers who were glad to see Hawthorne standing up in solidarity as well. This made history in our town with over 400+ attendees.
At the beginning of the pandemic I formed a mutual aid group Mutual Passaic County to help feed those in need at the hardest parts of the pandemic. We were buying essential groceries and dropping off food to those not only in Hawthorne but across Passaic County. We have helped in donating air conditioners to those in Hawthorne that have been in need. During the recent water advisory when our town wasn’t offering clear answers at the outset, we procured and delivered water to families in Hawthorne that were reaching out to us on social media.
I am also a board member of the Passaic County SPCA which is headquartered right on Lafayette Ave here in Hawthorne. They’ve been running their Pet Pantry for a few years now and also partner with Martha’s Pantry to provide pet food to those in need for their furry family members as well. We’ve held amazing events like “Pet Pictures with Santa,” and just last weekend “PCSPCA Pumpkin Patch” pet pictures. These are fun for the whole family and in turn help provide donations for their further work.
One of the key concerns of any resident is the cost of living in town. What steps or processes can local government take to ease the burden on the taxpayer?
I mentioned this in the last article TAPinto held and asked questions. That article link is here. I’m the only candidate proposing implementing a program already helping residents in Marlboro, Union Township, Voorhees, Haddonfield and Vernon right now on their property taxes. It is centered around shopping, buying and using a local contractor. We always talk about and post on social media to do so. Now towns are actually allowing it to pay off for homeowners, renters and business owners. You register for a card and this allows the local businesses to set up the discount percentage. The account tracks everything as the reward amounts accrue and then are credited in either the third or fourth quarter depending on how it’s set by the town. Wouldn’t 2-3% back on using a local contractor for a kitchen or bathroom renovation be nice? How about dining and shopping locally, saving you 5-10% and accruing each time. The best thing about this program is that it benefits homeowners and even renters with sending them checks back as well. This could mean thousands back to our residents and also drives business to our local shops. This is a proven program that will benefit many and keep money in the local economy.
http://marlboroedc.com/shop-marlboro-residents/
http://www.haddonfieldnj.org/departments/taxes_finances_and_budget/property_tax_card_program.php
https://www.uniontownship.com/669/Property-Tax-Rewards-Program
http://www.vernontwp.com/shop_vernon/
https://voorheesnj.com/residents/resources/shop-voorhees/
Heavy trucking in Hawthorne’s narrow streets has posed a problem for residents for many years. What steps can local government take to address heavy trucking problems in town?
We can pass ordinances and resolutions to ensure trucks use certain streets and only can travel on others at certain parts of the day. There is also more litter in areas by commercial businesses that residents have mentioned, so we need to educate the business owners about this along with trying to find parking solutions. I also support residents that want the ability to secure parking permits or passes by their houses and would make this a priority.
I thank TAPinto Hawthorne for this opportunity to answer some more important questions. Some of these issues I’ve already been speaking up on at town council meetings or have made them a part of my platform. I want to be an advocate for homeowners, renters, business owners, our elderly and youth. Hawthorne gets to choose three candidates for Town Council this year.
Please consider choosing me first #10-D on your ballot and then picking your next two favorites for council. I will continue to participate and advocate on behalf of the community, win or lose on November 2nd. You can follow the campaign and request a lawn sign on Facebook, read the full platform at http://www.cayetano4council.com and make sure to follow the campaign on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
Aspiring to Serve ALL of Hawthorne
Sierra Club New Jersey Chapter Endorses Craig Cayetano For Hawthorne Town Council
The Sierra Club New Jersey Chapter has announced its endorsement of Craig Cayetano for Hawthorne Town Council in the at-large race this year. The NJ Chapter has over 80,0000 members and supporters in this state that advocate on behalf of the environment. The organization overall is the oldest in the nation and has more than 3.8 members nationwide.
Moreover, this is the first time that the Sierra Club New Jersey Chapter has endorsed an Independent Green Party Candidate for a Town Council election. It recognizes the ongoing work that Craig Cayetano stands for and the benefits for Hawthorne by electing Cayetano to represent and advocate for all on Hawthorne Council. In endorsing Cayetano, its “mission” to explore, enjoy and protect these environments while promoting responsible uses of environmental resources and expanding education will be upheld.
“As a Sierra Club member, a longtime environmental advocate and activist, this endorsement means a lot. The New Jersey Sierra Club sees value in local campaigns, and I am honored to be one of this year’s 2021 candidates endorsed by them. This endorsement shows that it’s time to stand alongside independent alternative voices, those with principles to preserve our environment and to ensure our quality of life for the future of Hawthorne,” said Craig Cayetano, candidate for Hawthorne Town Council.
In the announcement communication, Karen Becker, Chapter Political Committee Chair said, “We wish you success in your campaign and look forward to working with you to protect our air, water and land for our families and our future. Thank you so much for your interest in the Sierra Club and we are proud to endorse and support your campaign.”
“The trust in an endorsement like this means I will uphold my promises to the community. I view this as a partnership and will strive to be a leader on the issues I’m campaigning on and promote advancing our community for the next generations to come,” said Craig Cayetano.
Hawthorne's voters have three council seats up this year and get to cast three votes for town council. So consider voting and choosing Craig first! Column 10 Row D! The campaign is working hard to reach and touch every door in Hawthorne! If you are interested in volunteering to help knock on doors, phone bank or want to display a lawn sign, please reach out and message us on Facebook. You also may donate and read the full platform at www.cayetano4council.com. Make sure to follow the campaign on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
New Jersey League of Conservation Voters Endorses Craig Cayetano For Hawthorne Town Council
New Jersey League of Conservation Voters - NJ LCV recently released its list of candidate endorsements for local elections this fall. NJLCV is a non-partisan group that endorses candidates regardless of party affiliation. This year, the only campaign to receive an endorsement in Passaic County is also the first Green Party endorsed, as well: Craig Cayetano for Hawthorne Town Council. Cayetano said, “I thank the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters for this honor. I am grateful to be the first Independent, Green Party Candidate to receive this endorsement. It shows that the time for more voices to be elected to local government is long overdue.”
The Cayetano For Council campaign is knocking on doors almost every day presenting a fresh face and set of ideas that are bold, broad and extensive. The campaign’s platform since the Ward 3 races’ carries over into this at-large race. In addition to the foundation laid out previously, there are major issues facing Hawthorne now and potentially in the future: recently increased flooding, concerns over clean and safe drinking water, open and green spaces, helping alleviate some burdens on homeowners while recognizing the rights of our renters.
As the independent Green Party candidate working to build bridges in the community, there are numerous reasons to choose Craig Cayetano first on your ballot before selecting your other two choices for town council.
“This will be a partnership with the people of Hawthorne," said Craig Cayetano. "I promise that with my election to Hawthorne Town Council, I will uphold environmental principles and principles of local economics, my reasons for running to bring Hawthorne forward! I will work toward the goals I campaigned on and will be a leader for the environment!”
Cayetano this week appeared at the NJLCV’s event in East Brunswick honoring retiring N.J. Senator Loretta Weinberg (N.J. Dem) and Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman (N.J. Rep) for their work to enact climate policies in New Jersey. Other endorsed NJLCV candidates attended and were able to discuss their campaigns and reasons for running. Cayetano said, “I am proud of the work Senators Weinberg and Bateman have led in these issues over the last decades. It is great to see the comradery amongst us all, political parties aside, working to bring New Jersey forward on climate issues.”
“From Jersey City to Moorestown, Phillipsburg to Red Bank, candidates at the local and county level are stepping up and providing a clear choice to voters who care about tackling climate change, protecting drinking water, reducing emissions and preserving open space,” said Henry Gajda, Public Policy Director of New Jersey LCV. “While much of the attention is rightly focused on the top of the ticket, we know that all politics is local and that the choices county commissioners and township council members make shape local communities in profound ways. We’re proud to endorse such a strong slate of pro-conservation candidates.”
“This year’s high-powered local endorsements clearly show an overwhelming groundswell of support for bold climate and justice action,” said Gajda. You can read the whole list of local endorsements here.
Hawthorne voters have an opportunity to make history this fall by choosing someone that is willing to lead and be an advocate for everyone. Consider choosing Craig first! Column 10 Row D for Craig! The campaign wants to touch every door in Hawthorne! If you are interested in volunteering to help knock on doors please reach out and message us on Facebook. You can also donate and read the full platform at www.cayetano4council.com. Make sure to follow the campaign on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
Meet Local Candidates At The September #GreenWave Broadcast
On Tuesday, September 28, the Green Party broadcast the first installment of our 2021 #GreenWave showcase livestreams.
#GreenWave features candidates assessed by our Coordinated Campaign Committee as running competitive, strategically important campaigns that our national party needs to support. When you give $30 to the Green Party today, you add to the pool of resources we can contribute. That means more support for more candidates and more elected Greens!
The candidates featured on September 28:
Craig Cayetano for Hawthorne City Council, At-Large (NJ)
Recruiting, training and supporting candidates is a year-long endeavor! We are grateful to our Monthly Sustainers who also give to the Green Party throughout the year. We hope you'll consider becoming a Monthly Sustainer at whatever amount you can give.
Green Party of the United States
http://www.gp.org/
NEW JERSEY LCV ENDORSES CANDIDATES IN LOCAL ELECTIONS
NEW JERSEY LCV ENDORSES CANDIDATES IN LOCAL ELECTIONS
Endorsements provide clear choice on environmental protection at local and county levels
TRENTON, NJ- New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (New Jersey LCV), the political voice for the environment in New Jersey, announced a slate of more than 50 endorsements for local and county candidates in November’s general election.
These endorsements represent the first time New Jersey LCV has endorsed a full ticket of candidates, from governor to local governing bodies.
“From Jersey City to Moorestown, Phillipsburg to Red Bank candidates at the local and county level are stepping up and providing a clear choice to voters who care about tackling climate change, protecting drinking water, reducing emissions and preserving open space,” said Henry Gajda, Public Policy Director of New Jersey LCV. “While much of the attention is rightly focused on the top of the ticket, we know that all politics is local and that the choices county commissioners and township councilmembers make shape local communities in profound ways. We’re proud to endorse such a strong slate of pro-conservation candidates.”
Last year, New Jersey LCV, for the first time, endorsed 28 local candidates. This year New Jersey LCV nearly doubled their local endorsements – announcing 55 candidates – Democrats, Republicans and Green Party candidates – that they will support to in their race and is expected to pour considerable resources into getting candidates at all level of government elected in November. “This year’s high-powered local endorsements clearly show an overwhelming groundswell of support for bold climate and justice action,” said Gajda.
New Jersey LCV embarked on a thorough endorsement process across the state’s big cities and small towns.
In New Jersey’s second largest city, New Jersey LCV was proud to endorse Mayor Steven Fulop for reelection, along with City Council candidates Mira Prinz-Arey, Jake Hudnut and Jermaine Robinson.
“New Jersey LCV has been a tireless advocate for a sustainable NJ. As the mayor of the single most diverse city in the country as well as one of the most densely populated cities in the country, I know firsthand the challenges of today and can easily see the challenges of tomorrow if not confronted head-on, and that’s why I am honored to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV today,” said Steven Fulop, candidate for Jersey City Mayor. “This is not only a validation of the work we have done in Jersey City but more importantly, it is a commitment to the work we are planning to do together in order to keep Jersey City a leader on environmentally conscience policies.”
At the same time, New Jersey LCV endorsed Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano, whose careful stewardship of environmental resources of the largest municipality in the New Jersey Highlands region earned the group’s support. New Jersey LCV also endorsed Cori Herbig and Judy Hernandez for township council.
“New Jersey LCV’s leadership, action on environmental and conservation policy, and support of leaders that prioritize these initiatives has been the linchpin for NJ’s progressive green leadership. Local policymakers are needed to make the big, bold legislative changes these times require. New Jersey LCV support makes this possible. We are honored to have the endorsement of New Jersey LCV,” said Michael Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez, candidates running in Parsippany-Troy Hills.
And continuing a long tradition of supporting pro-environment candidates on both sides of the aisle, New Jersey LCV endorsed Warren County Commissioner James R. Kern III, who has pushed for the formation of a county environmental commission.
“I am greatly honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Warren County’s scenic rivers, mountains, valleys, and rolling hills are part of what makes this corner of the state so great,” said Kern. “As an elected leader, I am committed to protecting these treasures so that future generations can enjoy this rural beauty for years to come.”
“Local elected leaders play a critical role in protecting our families and our environment by pursuing policies that can reduce flooding and improve water quality, increase green energy usage and ensure more sustainable construction practices,” said New Jersey LCV Chairwoman Julia Somers. “In the coming months, we will work hard to get these environmental champions elected to help position towns and counties across New Jersey as environmental leaders.”
New Jersey LCV also awarded their final legislative endorsement to Speaker Craig Coughlin for Assembly. “The 218th and the 219th legislatures, led by Speaker Coughlin, have been the most environmentally productive legislatures in New Jersey history. Even during COVID under the leadership of Speaker Coughlin, New Jersey remained a stalwart advocate for bold climate action and justice – and we couldn’t be prouder to endorse him for his Assembly race,” said Gajda.
Following is a list of all local candidates endorsed by New Jersey LCV, organized alphabetically by county and town:
| Municipality or County | Candidate Name (Party) | Candidate Statement |
| Alexandria Township Committee | Max Cooper (D) | |
| Atlantic Highlands Borough Council | Brian Dougherty (D) | “I am honored and humbled to accept the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. As the father of three young children, I believe there is no issue before us more urgent than climate change. It is up to all of us – and especially our elected officials – to do all we can and move as quickly as we can to build a greener and more resilient future,” said Brian Dougherty, candidate for Atlantic Highlands Borough Council. |
| Atlantic Highlands Borough Council | Lesley D’Almeida (D) | “It is with much gratitude that I accept the endorsement from the New Jersey LCV. Climate change is the most significant threat we are facing as a community. We must act boldly and decisively to protect our environment (water, air and open space). I am honored to have the support of an organization that is committed to protecting the environment for us all,” said Lesley D’Almeida, candidate for Atlantic Highlands Borough Council. |
| Bridgewater Township Council | Jennifer Feigley (D) | “I am thrilled to receive an endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. I know that a bright future for Bridgewater stems from a healthier planet. I am proud to commit to supporting environmental issues in a way that provides equity for all residents and a cleaner, smarter New Jersey,” said Jennifer Feigley, candidate for Bridgewater Township Council. |
| Bridgewater Township Council | Jill Gladstone (D) | “It is truly an honor to be the recipient of an endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters! The impact of local decision-making on the environment, such as approvals for new development and the choice of energy sources, is becoming more and more clear. At the same time, our national failure to address climate change has caused tragic consequences in the form of weather extremes resulting in loss of life and devastating damage to residents’ homes and property – even right here in Bridgewater. It is essential that we elect local officials who will tackle these issues,” said Jill Gladstone, candidate for Bridgewater Township Council. |
| Chatham Township Committee | Kathy Abbott (D) | “As a longtime environmentalist in my municipality, I am very pleased to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters as I run for election to the Chatham Township Committee,” said Kathy Abbott, candidate for Chatham Township Committee. |
| Clinton Town Council | John Kashwick (D) | “Given my lifelong passion for the environment, it is a great honor to receive the endorsement from such an outstanding organization,” said John Kashwick, candidate for Clinton Town Council. |
| Delaware Township Committee | Doug Borden (D) | “We are so pleased to learn that the New Jersey LCV has endorsed our campaign for Delaware Township Committee in the upcoming election – we could not be more proud of this important distinction,” said Doug Borden and Peter McCrohan, candidates for Delaware Township Committee. |
| Delaware Township Committee | Peter McCrohan (D) | “We are so pleased to learn that the New Jersey LCV has endorsed our campaign for Delaware Township Committee in the upcoming election – we could not be more proud of this important distinction,” said Doug Borden and Peter McCrohan, candidates for Delaware Township Committee. |
| Denville Town Council, Ward 3 | Barbara Kane (D) | “I am pleased to be endorsed by such a committed and dedicated organization, and I will work hard as an elected official to support the goals of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters,” said Barbara Kane, candidate for Denville Town Council, Ward 3. |
| Fair Lawn Borough Council | Gail Friedberg Rottenstrich (D) | “I am very proud to announce that I have been endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Protecting the environment and environmental sustainability are fundamental to good governance and to moving Fair Lawn forward. We look forward to working together to ensure a cleaner, greener, and healthier future for all our residents,” said Gail Friedberg Rottenstrich, candidate for Fair Lawn Borough Council. |
| Franklin Township Council, Ward 1. | Ed Potosnak (D) | “I am honored to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV, the state’s most respected political environmental organization,” said Ed Potosnak, candidate for Franklin Township Council – Ward 1. “My commitment to protecting Franklin’s natural resources, preserving our open spaces, and safeguarding clean drinking water are critical to our community’s continued success.” |
| Green Brook Township Committee | Arthur Goodman (D) | “I am proud to be endorsed by the New Jersey LCV as I am committed to the forward-looking principles of preserving our environment for the long-term well-being of our community, our state, our country, and our planet,” said Arthur Goodman, candidate for Green Brook Township Committee. |
| Green Brook Township Committee | Jen Dawson (D) | “I am enthusiastic about the endorsement from New Jersey League of Conservation Voters and wish to further our desire for a smarter, cleaner, and better New Jersey community!” said Jen Dawson, candidate for Green Brook Township Committee. |
| Hainesport Twp Committee | Anna Evans (D) | “I am proud to have earned the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters, and believe it reflects my commitment to tackling the environmental and climate-change-based issues facing our community today,” said Anna Evans, candidate for Hainesport Township Committee. |
| Harding Township Committee | Kate Barry (D) | “I had the immense pleasure of interning with New Jersey LCV close to its founding, shortly after receiving my Masters degree in Environment and Sustainable Development from University College London. It was one of the best, most hands-on experiences of my career. I know what a wonderful organization New Jersey LCV is, and how hardworking, knowledgeable, and dedicated its employees, volunteers, and interns are. As a third-generation resident of Harding Township, I know an endorsement from New Jersey LCV will resonate with voters here on a profound level. We have a long tradition of environmental stewardship and care deeply about our environment and our stunning open spaces. I am truly honored to have earned this endorsement and look forward to working with our friends at New Jersey LCV when I am elected to the Harding Township Committee,” said Kate Barry, candidate for Harding Township Committee. |
| Hawthorne Town Council | Craig Cayetano (Green Party) | “I thank the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters for this honor. I am grateful to be the first Independent, Green Party Candidate to receive this endorsement. It shows that the time for more voices to be elected to local government is long overdue,” said Craig Cayetano, candidate for Hawthorne Town Council. “This is a partnership and a promise that with my election to Hawthorne Town Council, I will uphold the principles and reasons for running to bring Hawthorne forward! I will work toward the goals I campaigned on and will be a leader for the environment!” |
| High Bridge Boro Council | Christopher Graham (D) | “I am proud to obtain the endorsement of New Jersey’s League of Conservation Voters, which is an impressive group of environmental professionals looking out for the greater good of the state of New Jersey,” said Christopher Graham, candidate for High Bridge Boro Council. |
| Hillsborough Township Committee | Jeff Wright (D) | “On behalf of Roger and myself, we want to thank New Jersey LCV for their endorsement especially at a time when environmental factors like stormwater management and related overdevelopment are adding to the problems the recent storm demonstrated. We are both advocates of the DOT Complete Green Street policy that is especially relevant in light of the widespread stormwater damage. Better planning to avoid overdevelopment that strips the land of porous surfaces and instituting green infrastructure to prevent stormwater-related flooding are two things needed in our town. Everyone should welcome government plans to stop the existing flooding problems,” said Jeff Wright and Roger Koch, candidates for Hillsborough Township Committee. |
| Hillsborough Township Committee | Roger Koch (D) | “On behalf of Jeff and myself, we want to thank New Jersey LCV for their endorsement especially at a time when environmental factors like stormwater management and related overdevelopment are adding to the problems the recent storm demonstrated. We are both advocates of the DOT Complete Green Street policy that is especially relevant in light of the widespread stormwater damage. Better planning to avoid overdevelopment that strips the land of porous surfaces and instituting green infrastructure to prevent stormwater-related flooding are two things needed in our town. Everyone should welcome government plans to stop the existing flooding problems,” said Jeff Wright and Roger Koch, candidates for Hillsborough Township Committee. |
| Hillside Town Council | George Cook (D) | “It is my honor to be endorsed by the New Jersey LCV and to be a part of their efforts in fighting to end environmental racism, and to help NJ go green,” said George Cook, candidate for Hillside Town Council. |
| Jersey City Council, Ward B | Mira Prinz-Arey (D) | “I’m grateful to have the support of New Jersey LCV as well as their recognition of the progress we’re making in delivering environmental justice and open space to the West Side with exciting projects like Skyway Park, which will transform a former landfill into 12 acres of new open space,” said Councilwoman Mira Prinz-Arey, running for Jersey City Council, Ward B. “Jersey City residents deserve leaders who will work to improve their quality of life each and every day and I’m running for re-election to continue being an advocate for sustainability, open space and progress in Ward B.” |
| Jersey City Council, Ward E | Jake Hudnut (D) | “I am excited to announce that I have earned the endorsement of the League of Conservation Voters. Sustainability and equity are pillars of my campaign, and I am thrilled to be fighting alongside them for our shared values,” said Jake Hudnut, candidate for Jersey City Council, Ward E. |
| Jersey City Council, Ward F | Jermaine Robinson (D) | |
| Jersey City Mayor | Steven Fulop (D) | “New Jersey LCV has been a tireless advocate for a sustainable NJ. As the mayor of the single most diverse city in the country as well as one of the most densely populated cities in the country, I know firsthand the challenges of today and can easily see the challenges of tomorrow if not confronted head-on, and that’s why I am honored to receive the endorsement of New Jersey LCV today,” said Steven Fulop, candidate for Jersey City Mayor. “This is not only a validation of the work we have done in Jersey City but more importantly, it is a commitment to the work we are planning to do together in order to keep Jersey City a leader on environmentally conscience policies.” |
| Monmouth County Commissioner | Michael Beson (D) | “I am honored to have the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters and when elected will be a constant advocate for pro-environmental policies,” said Mike Beson, candidate for Monmouth County Commissioner. |
| Montgomery Township Committee | Marvin Schuldiner (D) | “It is an honor to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. This endorsement recognizes my commitment to be a good steward for the environment and to help preserve and improve the natural beauty of Montgomery,” said Marvin Schuldiner, candidate for Montgomery Township Committee. |
| Montgomery Township Committee | Neena Singh (D) | “As the first Sikh woman to serve on a municipal governing council in New Jersey, it is an honor to be endorsed by the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. This endorsement recognizes my commitment to be a good steward for the environment and to help preserve and improve the natural beauty of Montgomery and our surrounding areas!” said Neena Singh, candidate for Montgomery Township Committee. |
| Moorestown Council | Quinton Law (D) | “Local governments play an important role in fighting the climate crisis. Our communities should be leading the way on green energy infrastructure and stormwater management. This is a climate emergency,” said Quinton Law, candidate for Moorestown Council. |
| Morris County Commissioner | T.C. McCourt (D) | “The three of us are simply over the moon to be in this fight alongside New Jersey LCV. Our planet is on the ballot this November. This election will set the tone for how our county handles the climate crisis. We look forward to working with the New Jersey LCV on moving Morris County and the rest of the state toward a more sustainable future,” said T.C. McCourt, AJ Oliver, and Dina Mikulka, candidates for Morris County Commissioner. |
| Morris County Commissioner | AJ Oliver (D) | “The three of us are simply over the moon to be in this fight alongside New Jersey LCV. Our planet is on the ballot this November. This election will set the tone for how our county handles the climate crisis. We look forward to working with the New Jersey LCV on moving Morris County and the rest of the state toward a more sustainable future,” said T.C. McCourt, AJ Oliver, and Dina Mikulka, candidates for Morris County Commissioner. |
| Morris County Commissioner | Dina Mikulka (D) | “The three of us are simply over the moon to be in this fight alongside New Jersey LCV. Our planet is on the ballot this November. This election will set the tone for how our county handles the climate crisis. We look forward to working with the New Jersey LCV on moving Morris County and the rest of the state toward a more sustainable future,” said T.C. McCourt, AJ Oliver, and Dina Mikulka, candidates for Morris County Commissioner. |
| Morris Township Committee | Mark Gyorfy (D) | “I am proud to have the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters’ support to continue pushing common-sense, environmentally conscious policies on a local level to better protect what we cherish today for generations to come,” said Mark Gyorfy, Deputy Mayor, candidate for Morris Township Committee. |
| Morris Township Committee | Tara Olivo-Moore (D) | “I am delighted to be endorsed by the League of Conservation Voters. I will work with them to preserve New Jersey‘s natural beauty and resources for the benefit of all New Jersey residents, now and into the future,” said Tara Olivo-Moore, candidate for Morris Township Committee. |
| Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council | Michael Soriano (D) | “New Jersey LCV’s leadership, action on environmental and conservation policy, and support of leaders that prioritize these initiatives has been the linchpin for NJ’s progressive green leadership. Local policymakers are needed to make the big, bold legislative changes these times require. New Jersey LCV support makes this possible. We are honored to have the endorsement of New Jersey LCV,” said Michael Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez, candidates running in Parsippany-Troy Hills. |
| Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council | Cori Herbig (D) | “New Jersey LCV’s leadership, action on environmental and conservation policy, and support of leaders that prioritize these initiatives has been the linchpin for NJ’s progressive green leadership. Local policymakers are needed to make the big, bold legislative changes these times require. New Jersey LCV support makes this possible. We are honored to have the endorsement of New Jersey LCV,” said Michael Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez, candidates running in Parsippany-Troy Hills. |
| Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council | Judy Hernandez (D) | “New Jersey LCV’s leadership, action on environmental and conservation policy, and support of leaders that prioritize these initiatives has been the linchpin for NJ’s progressive green leadership. Local policymakers are needed to make the big, bold legislative changes these times require. New Jersey LCV support makes this possible. We are honored to have the endorsement of New Jersey LCV,” said Michael Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez, candidates running in Parsippany-Troy Hills. |
| Pennington Borough Council | Nadine Stern (D) | “I have been long been an advocate for environmental equity and efforts to combat global warming. Personally, I have an all-electric vehicle and my house has recently installed solar panels,” said Nadine Stern, candidate for Pennington Borough Council. |
| Pennington Borough Council | James M. Davy (D) | “I welcome the endorsement of New Jersey LCV as I fully endorse its public policy agenda,” said James Davy, candidate for Pennington Borough Council. |
| Phillipsburg Town Council | Keith Kennedy (D) | “We are honored to have the support of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters with their endorsement. With this endorsement, we will continue to build the future of Phillipsburg for all the people. Kennedy, Lewis, and Clark, when in office, vow to stand up against warehouse sprawl along our beautiful riverfront, that will not just bring noise but increased pollution to our beautiful town. We stand for preserving our town’s natural resources and protecting our parks and open spaces for the next generation,” said Lee Clark, Keith Kennedy, and Derick Lewis, candidates for Phillipsburg Town Council. |
| Phillipsburg Town Council | Derick Lewis (D) | “We are honored to have the support of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters with their endorsement. With this endorsement, we will continue to build the future of Phillipsburg for all the people. Kennedy, Lewis, and Clark, when in office, vow to stand up against warehouse sprawl along our beautiful riverfront, that will not just bring noise but increased pollution to our beautiful town. We stand for preserving our town’s natural resources and protecting our parks and open spaces for the next generation,” said Lee Clark, Keith Kennedy, and Derick Lewis, candidates for Phillipsburg Town Council. |
| Phillipsburg Town Council | Lee Clark (D) | “We are honored to have the support of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters with their endorsement. With this endorsement, we will continue to build the future of Phillipsburg for all the people. Kennedy, Lewis, and Clark, when in office, vow to stand up against warehouse sprawl along our beautiful riverfront, that will not just bring noise but increased pollution to our beautiful town. We stand for preserving our town’s natural resources and protecting our parks and open spaces for the next generation,” said Lee Clark, Keith Kennedy, and Derick Lewis, candidates for Phillipsburg Town Council. |
| Princeton Town Council | Leighton Newlin (D) | “I am pleased to receive the support of New Jersey LCV,” said Leighton Newlin, candidate for Princeton Town Council. |
| Raritan Township Committee | Hope Cohen (D) | “New Jersey LCV is a leading advocate for the future of this state and the health of the planet. I am deeply honored that New Jersey LCV recognizes my alignment with its policy priorities and endorses my candidacy for Raritan Township Committee,” said Hope Cohen, candidate for Raritan Township Committee. |
| Readington Township Committee | Adam Mueller (R) | “We are proud to receive the endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. The environment is an important part of what makes Readington Township a great place to live and Juergen and Adam will advocate for the long-term protection of Readington’s natural resources and a sustainable future,” said Adam Mueller and Juergen Huelsebusch, candidates for Readington Township Committee. |
| Readington Township Committee | Juergen Huelsebusch (R) | “We are proud to receive the endorsement from the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. The environment is an important part of what makes Readington Township a great place to live and Juergen and Adam will advocate for the long-term protection of Readington’s natural resources and a sustainable future,” said Adam Mueller and Juergen Huelsebusch, candidates for Readington Township Committee. |
| Red Bank Town Council | Jacqueline Sturdivant (D) | “I am honored to receive the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters endorsement and cherish all of the New Jersey LCV activities to make New Jersey Green and sustainable. Our planet is in a climate crisis and it is imperative that we expand the measures of good stewardship my fellow Democrats have established in Red Bank thus far. I will support expanding electric vehicle charging stations, environmental concerns about plastics, and commitment to environmental reform,” said Jacqueline Sturdivant, candidate for Red Bank Town Council. |
| Red Bank Town Council | Kate Triggiano (D) | “I am honored to have earned the endorsement of New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. From clean energy to green infrastructure, to a more equitable future for all, New Jersey LCV shares many of the goals and solutions we are moving forward with here in Red Bank,” said Kate Triggiano, candidate for Red Bank Borough Council. |
| Roxbury Town Council, At-Large Seat | Jen Cooper (D) | “I am ecstatic to have the support of New Jersey LCV and am proud to promote the intentions and programs of our state that will proactively and intentionally build a greener, cleaner community that meets our energy needs affordably while equally meeting our needs to live in a healthy and environmentally just society,” said Jen Cooper, candidate for Roxbury Town Council, At-Large Seat. |
| Somerset County Commissioner | Sara Sooy (D) | “I am proud to be endorsed by New Jersey LCV as I will continue to support our shared missions. We still have lots of work to do with our expansion of EV, EV Charging stations, promoting green building development, and supporting planning in alignment with the state energy master plan,” said Sara Sooy, candidate for Somerset County Commissioner. |
| Somerset County Commissioner | Shanel Y. Robinson (D) | “Thank you to the New Jersey LCV for their vote of confidence by endorsing my candidacy for Somerset County Commissioner. I’m indeed honored and humbled to be seen as an ally, a leader, and an advocate for strong environmental policies, accountable to safeguard the health of our communities, the beauty of our state, and the strength of our economy,” said Shanel Robinson, candidate for Somerset County Commissioner. |
| Warren County Commissioner | James R. Kern III (R) | “I am greatly honored to receive the endorsement of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. Warren County’s scenic rivers, mountains, valleys, and rolling hills are part of what makes this corner of the state so great. As an elected leader, I am committed to protecting these treasures so that future generations can enjoy this rural beauty for years to come,” said James Kern III, candidate for Warren County Commission. |
| Watchung Borough Council | Daryl Eisenberg Knegten (D) | “Watchung prides itself on our natural beauty and bucolic surroundings. Maintaining our peaceful environment while planning for our future is a priority in my campaign and my governance,” said Councilmember Daryl Eisenberg Knegten, incumbent candidate for Watchung Borough Council. |
New Jersey League of Conservation Voters is a non-partisan organization whose mission is to elect environmental champions, hold public officials accountable, and support laws which protect our environment and improve the quality of people’s lives.
PAID FOR BY NEW JERSEY LCV PAC, PO BOX 1237, TRENTON, NJ 08607
Hawthorne’s Water Advisory: A Lot of Important Questions With Very Little Answers So Far From Our Administration
Hawthorne residents still recovering from Tropical Storm Ida, now have been instructed to boil water due to E.Coli contamination in their well water. The announcement came out via a Nixle Alert at 10:22pm Saturday evening. We’ve heard about the boil advisory for other parts of Passaic County since the damage caused by Ida. The Passaic Valley Water Commision still has cities and parts of towns under the boil advisory in effect since September 2. I, like many others, presumed our well water was safe. If the positive sample was taken on Thursday, September 9, why did it take so long to communicate this to residents? Like many of you, I was alarmed at the water advisory alert coming so late in the day. I immediately did my best to convey and share the alert information on Facebook and on Next Door. While I am accustomed to using social media, there are still probably two-thirds of the town not on these networks, nor are they registered for our Nixle service. Why the delay and inconsistent dispersal of information?
So far, TAPinto Hawthorne has done a great job of sharing the initial Nixle alert as a public notice here. They’ve also mentioned the discussions on social media, shared the response by the Hawthorne PD, and shared some tips on how to handle this water advisory from the CDC here. I was also glad to see our Superintendent of Schools, Richard Spirito, put out a statement for our school children notifying the community about restricting the use of district water fountains, water refilling stations. They have alerted their food provider here.
So, I place the focus back on the current administration, the mayor and current council. I was in attendance at today’s Hawthorne Environmental Commision/Green Team: Green Fair. I saw the mayor, council and other candidates running show up and hang out, but I didn’t see any urgency to convey this information more fully throughout the community. This conveys a lackadaisical approach which I see as almost insulting when so many residents have been asking questions and waiting for answers -- on social media or otherwise. As a longtime environmental activist, Hawthorne Green Team member, and Independent Green Party Town Council Candidate here are a list of questions that I’ve collected amongst fellow residents and myself, all of which demand immediate and comprehensive answers:
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Was the well water initially tested after Ida passed through Hawthorne on 9/2 like in other towns? If not, why wasn’t it? If so, what triggered this contamination to pop up a week past the storm? Was it tested due to the prolonged contamination that the Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) is still experiencing in parts of Passaic County?
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Why, if the positive sample came back on Thursday 9/9, did it take the administration until 10:22pm on 9/11 to communicate this to the public?
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How frequently is our water tested? Are results given within a 24, 48 or 72-hour period? Does one positive result of E. Coli or any other bacteria present lead to an automatic re-test?
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What are the federal guidelines for reporting positive tests back to the community? What time table is a municipality required to follow?
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As of today how many Hawthorne residents are signed up to receive the Nixle alerts?
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Why weren’t other methods of communicating this thoroughly explored, such as Reverse 911 or even police driving down each street warning people over a loud speaker to boil their water?
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What duties does the Health Inspector have regarding this, and communicating this to all our local restaurants and businesses throughout town? Is the Health Inspector involved in notifying our elder care and senior living facilities?
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Can our Board of Health answer what symptoms should parents of (especially formula fed) infants look for? Do E.coli infections pass from breastfeeding mothers to infants?
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Boys & Girls Club parents were notified this morning that they'll be using bottled water in all programs until this is resolved; does the town notify out-of-town parents of children who are in daycare/preschool/extracurricular programs in town?
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Given the delay in notice given to consumers, have our local health practitioners, particularly pediatricians, been notified? Will the Board of Health do this?
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Will the borough be offering water to the residents in a similar fashion to that which the PVWC is doing throughout their ongoing boil advisory period? What if any resources will Hawthorne provide? Will the county offer any resources for parents and those affected relevant to this situation?
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What steps are being taken to improve communication in an effort to restore trust in the borough, Hawthorne Water Supply and Hawthorne Water Department?
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Will the mayor’s letter on Monday offer a true FAQ to all these questions and others proposed by residents of the community?
I would like to thank those in the community offering to assist and help supply others with water. I have reached out to secure some water from an ally, the Newark Water Coalition, to help those in dire need immediately. I’ve stood beside them in their fight for access to clean drinking water for all their residents for 4 years now and proudly put my body on the line for them. I greatly appreciate their help in this time of need. They have donated through Mutual Passaic County 35 gallons of water which will be dispersed to Hawthorne residents. They have four of the most advanced filtration systems called “The Water Box” which was donated by 501CTHREE, Jaden Smith’s organization to help in Newark during their ongoing lead crisis. You can donate to their ongoing work here.
As for our situation in town I would call on the administration, mayor and council to disperse any water they have in our food pantry immediately. I also call on them to bring in water tanker(s) to offer water for residents. There are many people still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and remnants of Ida. They are the ones that need help and are always the hardest to hear, especially in a time of need. We can and must do better, Hawthorne.
Craig Cayetano is Hawthorne’s Green Party Candidate for Town Council in the 2021 General Election
Hawthorne Asks the Candidates: Craig Cayetano
What is your educational background and occupation? I attended Bergen Community College, where I studied biology, chemistry, anatomy & physiology, political science, and philosophy. I was a working-student who ended up in retail sales. I have been with Park Ave BMW as an Internet & Sales Advisor for almost 16 years. I also specialize in electric and plug-In hybrid vehicles.
How would you describe your guiding life philosophy? I have always tried to look at every situation from all sides. I respect the work and efforts of my family from when I was a young child to try to avoid poverty. When I made it to high school, I not only had an affinity for the environment and veterinary medicine, but also political science and philosophy. I studied them then, but I am still learning that there are many perspectives to consider. That extended into my adult life, so that when I re-engaged in politics, I decided to build and support alternative parties like the Green Party of New Jersey. The Green Party most represents my ideals since it is decentralized, focused on community, the environment, supports labor and is not beholden to any corporate interests or donors.
What is your motivation in seeking public office, or seeking re-election as the case may be? I decided to join our Green Team, which works with our Environmental Commission, three years ago to bring forward new ideas. I’m proud of the Polystyrene Drives, cleanups and discussions for electric/plug-in vehicles. I am still a member, but more needs to be done, which comes only through stepping up and running for office. I am an environmentalist, organizer and activist on many issues in New Jersey. It was time to take the next steps to build and move our community forward. The 2019 Ward 3 race was a necessity since the Democrats didn’t field a candidate in 2015. I decided to put together a robust platform that could be embraced by anyone and that benefits everyone. The Ward 3 special election last year showed that during a pandemic you can’t run just on your name but needed to get in the streets, engage with the community and be seen. Despite not winning the election, we won by building momentum to use in this race. That was always the goal. The residents of Hawthorne still need someone like me who brings new ideas, communicates well and can dedicate the time to attend all council and committee meetings. I have the capacity to lead, organize and fight for the changes we want to see. This is a new era in politics and in Hawthorne. We are younger and more diverse. Therefore, we must put the needs of the next generations in focus. As an Independent, I can be your advocate. As a Green, I will work to bring sustainable infrastructure to our town. I can build bridges across our community, which will allow us to all prosper.
Would you support the implementation of a method to allow residents to submit questions or comments to the borough council in real-time through some electronic means aside from in-person, or should meetings should exclusively be conducted as they have in the past? Over the last few years, I’ve attended nearly 99% of our Town Council meetings. I’ve had people message me that they would like to attend the meetings, but they are usually working or commuting home when they occur. They also occur during dinner time. The most attendance and interaction I’ve seen was during the pandemic, when towns across the state used virtual meetings to communicate with their constituents. I thank those who attended and spoke up on important issues, such as supporting recreational marijuana. People were able to tell their personal stories of how medically it helped them. Would these stories have been heard if we were just in person and not online? No. I believe they wouldn’t have been. So I fully support moving to a hybrid model of supporting both in-person and online meetings. This would apply to not only council meetings, but also for all town committee meetings. If there really is a legal roadblock, I would work with our state Assembly and Senate to pass legislation that would allow it. Anytime you can allow more access and accountability in our government is a positive.
Would you support having police officers conduct foot patrols in certain parts of town, such as in our business-dense areas? Yes. I would like to see our police more on foot and more so on bikes around the major arteries of town with less of an emphasis on using vehicles. I also have advocated for us to migrate and purchase electric and hybrid police vehicles. You can read more about this here: https://www.cayetano4council.com/future_focus_sustainability
What can Hawthorne do to improve the lives of our seniors and raise awareness of senior services offered by the borough? I would love to see more communication with and education of our seniors about social media and other ways to connect. I see lots of great Passaic County events, but still not enough of an effort is made to make this available and accessible. I fully support more transparent and engaging social media. I support more outdoor activities for seniors. I support working toward building a true community center.
A resident said that she takes her baby daughter outside of Hawthorne for most of their activities other than to go eat. What can Hawthorne do to expand opportunities and awareness of activities available to young families and pre-school age children to prevent them from traveling out of town so often to meet these needs? We have great small businesses in town. We also have great county events that aren’t properly communicated. As I mentioned in the last response, we need more transparent and engaging media to share these events. A better portal for parents. I truly hope universal Pre-K gets through the upcoming bills in Washington. There are so many families in town that could use this assistance that it will become a boon and create even more opportunities for the community. It is way past time to recognize that Pre-K is just as important as K-12+.
A resident is concerned about the number of empty shops and businesses in town. What can the council do to try to incentivize new businesses to call Hawthorne home? I have been concerned and have spoken to many local business owners and residents to solicit feedback on what could be done. I also have been candid on social media and at council meetings on ways to bring in new businesses. Hawthorne already has some gems, but we need a more diverse selection of restaurants. I would love to see Diamond Bridge turn into a restaurant row and even call it “Dining on Diamond: Experience Hawthorne’s Gems!” I also believe in the program that Marlboro has been behind for years, which was passed through the state assembly (A4806) and senate this year, about creating a town discount card toward your property taxes if you shop local. Voorhees, Haddonfield and Union Township also support this program. Under these programs, municipalities offer a reward card that shoppers use when making purchases at local participating shops, with a percentage of the sale going to lower the shopper’s property tax bill. The local business determines the percentage of discount. This ensures that the money stays within the community. I have also proposed installing EV charging stations in key areas of the town to make our town a destination. People can come have lunch or go to the movies and utilize the station. There are many more ideas I’ve proposed on my website as part of my platform, along with those mentioned. You can find them here: https://www.cayetano4council.com/community_based_economics
A number of properties are vacant, overgrown, or otherwise unkempt. Is the borough doing enough to ensure property owners are maintaining their lots?No, they are not. Too many property owners on main streets are not being reprimanded. There is no reason why we can’t ask and, if necessary, enforce or even fine them when we do cleanups through the Environmental Commission and Green Team periodically in town. Major property owners need to see the importance of beautifying our town and the error of not addressing it because relationships with current officials or committees need to end.
In July, a Prospect Park man was killed in a vehicular accident when he was struck by a car while riding a bicycle. Resident concerns for bike and traffic safety in Hawthorne are high, and residents have complained that youths on bicycles have been riding recklessly down the roads, causing traffic safety problems, and posing hazards in areas of heavy foot traffic. Additionally, many, if not most, of Hawthorne's young bicyclists do not wear helmets, putting themselves at risk of head injury and riding in violation of NJ State Statute Title 39:4-10.1. What would you do to address this? This was tragic and my condolences go out to his family. The safety and security of everyone is my prerogative. For years, I’ve proposed the creation of newer and safer bike lanes for cyclists, runners and pedestrians around town. I’ve spoken up at council meetings about reducing the speed limit on major roads even those county owned to ensure safety. I live at the beginning of Rea Ave Extension and every night hear vehicles racing. I’m glad that some electronic signs have been installed, but more needs to be done about reducing speed limits, adding more stop signs, and installing speed bumps. I also want to reduce the amount of vehicles and congestion on our roads by adding bike corrals throughout town. We need to do PSA’s with the Hawthorne PD to show proper bike safety, maintenance, and where to park our bikes. It would be a campaign I would happily coordinate.
Just prior to the outbreak of the pandemic, the mayor established a Post Office Committee to address concerns residents have with the postal service. Today, some residents continue to have issues with the postal service. What actions will you take to assist them? I respect the work that our mail carriers do and, in all my years in town, haven’t personally had any issues with them or at the post office. However, I have read the stories and comments on social media and take the concerns of our fellow residents seriously. The task of the “Post Office Committee” seems to have been lost during the pandemic. Only recently, this came back into the spotlight and not from the current administration. Honestly, the way to handle this was to reach out to Congressman Pascrell, which has now been done. I would still support dialogue with the postmaster and Pascrell to try to address the concerns mentioned. The post office needs staff at the counter.
There has been an increase in graffiti throughout the borough, with signs, infrastructure, and borough structures defaced, causing a vandalism-and-quality-of-life concern. What would you do in office to address this? I have said publicly and on social media that I believe in and want a more artistic vibe in Hawthorne. This has been a part of my platform for years. I want us to let our artists shine, with more shops, festivals, and even galleries. I would love to see us apply for more grants or commission our artists to create more art downtown and paint murals. I would actually reach out to this artist and ask if they would consider doing a mural or being involved with other art in town. In exchange, we would ask that they wouldn’t tag other structures and private property. This may be the best and a win-win for us.
The public garbage cans in Hawthorne, particularly those around Diamond Bridge and Lafayette tend to be overflowing with trash regularly. What will you do to keep these streets cleaner? I’ve personally gone around town a few times picking up trash and recycling. Others and I also had participated in clean ups through our Hawthorne Environmental Commission and Green Team. To help handle the downtown area, as I’ve mentioned in my platform, we need to purchase and install newer solar powered trash bins that can compact items. These would allow for a reduction in collection rates by approximately 80%, which would result in less truck emissions in heavily trafficked areas. It also allows for less trash to escape and be blown around the street. You can read more about it here: https://www.cayetano4council.com/ecological_wisdom
I thank TAPinto Hawthone for presenting a few important questions from the community and the opportunity to answer. Once more, I’m running as an independent advocate, to present new and fresh ideas, with a full campaign platform of over 30 ideas to transform and propel Hawthorne forward. You can follow on Facebook: Cayetano4council, Twitter: @Green4Hawthorne, Instagram: @Cayetano4council and on the website: cayetano4council.com.
Hawthorne Residents Can Vote Early and In Person
Further information will be available on the state website, vote.nj.gov.
In Hawthorne, the mayoral candidates are Council Vice President John Lane (R) and Councilman Joseph Wojtecki (D). The council-at-large race, with three seats contested, has the Republican ticket of Councilman Bruce Bennett, Councilman Dominic Mele, and Anna Marie Sasso running against the Democratic ticket of Ann Marie Peterson, Thomas Bushnauskas, and Hope Foley. Craig Cayetano is running for council-at-large as the Green Party candidate.
Early in-person voting hours will be Monday through Saturday from 10am - 8pm and Sunday from 10am - 6pm. No appointment is necessary.
Every county throughout New Jersey will be offering similar vote early options to registered voters. Voting locations have not been confirmed yet.
Get in touch with JOHN VAN VLIET
Cayetano For Council Campaign Final Push To Secure Petition Signatures. Hawthorne Deserves More Voices & Choices On the Ballot This November!
The Cayetano For Council Team has been out in the streets talking to residents and collecting petition signatures to represent Hawthorne once more as one of the at-large Hawthorne Town Council candidates this November! They have been utilizing a traditional paper petition but for those who haven’t yet signed there is no worry. If you are ready now you can either scan the QR barcode in the image preceding this statement or sign on through this safe and secure link: http://bit.ly/CayetanoPetition
The petition requires you to draw your signature with a stylus or finger, your full name, full address and zip code. Once again, signing the petition does not mandate a vote for us. It simply ensures we will appear on the November 2nd ballot. You can always reach out to the campaign with any questions via phone (973) 433-6696 or email [email protected].
The campaign has so much energy and is gaining interest because it is an Independent - Green Party campaign purely grassroots, honest and sincere. The campaign listens to all residents and includes everyone from renters to homeowners, youth to our elders, to craft its positions and proposals. Craig brings twenty one years of retail experience, different perspectives and fresh ideas but most importantly his relationships with small business owners is an asset this town deserves to have represented on council. He truly wants to propel and move Hawthorne Forward.
“I am proud of the campaigns the Greens run across New Jersey since we focus on real issues and require those of us running for office to 'show up.' Hawthorne and New Jersey overall deserves better than typical 'who you know' politics or empty paper candidacies with nothing to stand on. Our platform developed over the last few years is one that has been embraced by supporters from both major parties and all sides. Also, the Green Party of New Jersey hasn’t stopped growing with 11,794 registered Greens as of June 1st! We can bridge the divide between the Republicans and Democrats. I call on those unaffiliated to join us and build here today! I welcome Democrats and Republicans tired of the typical party politics to join us on June 9th. Your voice has value and you are welcome here” said Craig Cayetano.
If you are still unaware of the advocacy and issues Craig Cayetano stands for these past few years you can read more about him, the various news articles and even donate through a link on the campaign website: cayetano4council.com. The campaign also uses all major social media platforms Facebook: Cayetano4council, Instagram: @Cayetano4council, Twitter: @Green4Hawthorne and Youtube: cayetano4council. Once more here is the link to sign onto the campaign online petition. http://bit.ly/CayetanoPetition
Thank you all from the Cayetano For Council Team!
As Hawthorne Pride Month Begins, the Progress Pride Flag Should Be Flown. Our New Flagpole Should Be Relocated To Borough Hall!
At the town council meeting this past Wednesday night I was proud to hear the mayor Proclaim that June is Pride Month in Hawthorne. Mike Stracco, Chairman of the Hawthorne Pride Alliance (HPA) announced that the Pride flag will be flown for the first time on a new flagpole, along with being displayed in the window at Borough Hall and at St. Clements. Even some local small businesses will be showing their solidarity in different ways this month!
I’ve commended the mayor on the formation of the HPA, the work Stracco and the HPA has achieved this year but acknowledge that even more needs to be done. One thing still has me scratching my head. If the town went through the process of purchasing a second flagpole to honor cultures, movements and causes, -- I wrote about this last year calling on the town to purchase and install a second flagpole at Borough Hall -- then why wasn’t it installed outside the Municipal Building? We have a wonderful 9/11 memorial but it wasn’t installed there either I guess out of respect to those lives lost that day. It wasn’t installed next to the flagpole at the Hawthorne Volunteer Ambulance Corps so why did they choose that patch of grass a few feet away in front of it? Why not erect it at Borough Hall? I know that this decision wasn’t up to the HPA. It was solely upon the mayor and town administration, especially if it is intended to be used for other causes and events in the future. They held a flag raising for “Mental Health Awareness” in May. These are questions that not only I have had since hearing this but many others in town are wondering as well.
Last year, I also called on the mayor to recognize and fly the Progress Pride Flag instead of the rainbow one. I did so again Wednesday night. This flag shows support for transgendered, the marginalized black and brown transgender community and those that identify as non-binary. They deserve to know their community of Hawthorne is a safe space for them. I wrote, “each year, more students are identifying as transgendered or non-binary. As a town we need to show support and camaraderie that our community is becoming more open and diverse. Hawthorne is beginning a new chapter of inclusivity, so we call on the newly formed Hawthorne Pride Alliance to support and fight for the following now and in the future. The town should raise the Progress Pride Flag starting this July 2020, not just the traditional rainbow flag.”
As we overcome and recover from the pandemic, our youth should be the focus. Recently, The Trevor Project’s 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health has some very disheartening statistics all within the last year:
“42% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half of transgender and nonbinary youth.
Half of all LGBTQ youth of color reported discrimination based on their race/ethnicity in the past year, including 67% of Black LGBTQ youth and 60% of Asian/Pacific Islander LGBTQ youth.”
As of May 21st, The Human Rights Campaign reported “Oliver’s death is at least the 26th violent death of a transgender or gender non-conforming person in 2021. We say 'at least' because too often these deaths go unreported or misreported.” The HRC recorded 44 deaths in 2020, the most since they started tracking this violence in 2013.
Craig Cayetano represents Hawthorne as the Green Party Candidate for Town Council in the 2021 General Election
NJ Election 2021: Hawthorne council primary pits 6 GOP candidates
HAWTHORNE — Six candidates, including two incumbents, are vying for half as many Republican nominations in a Borough Council primary on Tuesday.
Councilmen Bruce Bennett and Dominic Mele formed a team with Anna Marie Sasso, a real estate broker. They are being challenged by Michael Doyle, a former school board trustee, and Jay Shortway, whose family has owned the eponymous bar and restaurant for decades.
Rounding out the crowded field is Philip Speulda, a retired businessman.
Next week's GOP showdown reflects only part of the interest in three vacancies on the seven-person council. Each at-large seat comes with a four-year term.
Awaiting the victors will be a full slate of Democratic candidates in the general election in November. They include Thomas Bushnauskas, Hope Foley and Ann Marie Peterson. In addition, Craig Cayetano has announced his intention to run for a council seat under the Green Party banner.
Council vice president John Lane, a Republican, will square off in a mayoral race in the fall against his colleague, Councilman Joseph Wojtecki, a Democrat from the 1st Ward. Both men are uncontested in their respective primaries.
Mayor Richard Goldberg, a Republican, said in February that he would not seek a fourth term.
Meet the candidates
Bennett, 67, is going for his sixth council term. He decided to seek reelection because another retirement from the governing body would have destabilized the party, he said.
"It would just be too much churn, all at once," said Bennett, a technical editor. "We want to carry on the progress that we have achieved under Mayor Goldberg's leadership."
Doyle, 49, and Shortway, 55, centered their platform on toppling old-guard members of the party. The duo referred all questions to a prepared statement and their campaign's Facebook page.
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Doyle, of Mandon Terrace, is a lieutenant for the Bergen County Sheriff's Office, and Shortway, of Goffle Road, manages Shortway's Barn. They named public safety and youth sports among top priorities, along with finding a viable use for the abandoned "Five Corners" gas station property in the 3rd Ward.
The running mates said in their statement that they would "bring a more modern aspect to the existing administration," while upholding "conservative values."
Mele, 75, owns a floral shop on Lafayette Avenue. The borough native, whose tenure on the council began in 2008, said he was not intimidated by the challenge posed by Doyle and Shortway.
"I believe in what I believe in," Mele said. "Change costs money, and we're trying to keep our taxes down."
Trending: Man charged in mother's stabbing death was hospitalized last month, attorney says
Speulda, 66, said he has a plan that may help to flatten costs. He wants to do away with the borough's garbage hauler to take on the service in-house. He claims the move could save as much as $7 million over a 10-year span.
"It all adds up," he said. "It all makes sense."
Speulda, of Diamond Bridge Avenue, has attempted to get elected multiple times — including as a Democrat.
Besides his goal to cut expenses through the trash collection plan, he said he would explore the installation of four-way stop signs and speed humps on some local roads.
"I'm not just running to blow hot air," Speulda said. "I'm running to make Hawthorne a better town."
Sasso, of Highcrest Drive, said her volunteer duties on the Zoning Board of Adjustment and in several other capacities, including through Project Graduation at the high school, have prepared her for a demanding role in municipal government.
"Someone needs to earn their sea legs to grow into a position on the council," said Sasso, 56. "And I feel as though I have."
Philip DeVencentis is a local reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
Email: [email protected]
Craig Cayetano Calling On All Of Hawthorne To Sign Candidate Petition For November’s Town Council Election To Move Hawthorne Forward
“We thank everyone that has supported us before. We were very proud of the votes we received from Unaffiliated Independents, Democrats, Republicans, Greens and many others. We knew that our campaigns for Ward 3 brought forth new ideas that were invigorating the community, highlighting important projects across town, supporting small businesses, and putting the safety of pedestrians, runners and bikers first but we finally started to see the impact on the elected council, administration and mayor that night in January. When Council President Matthews mentioned his “Quality Of Life Issues” for Hawthorne we knew a lot of this had parallels to our platform. This was due to my attending and advocating for these issues at every town council meeting. Being Green isn’t just a goal -- it's a way of life for me and am proud of the initiatives started back in the Hawthorne Environmental Commission/Green Team, such as our polystyrene 'Styrofoam' drives. We also took the lead on advocating for electric charging stations and electrified municipal vehicles in those campaigns for office,” Cayetano said.
After deciding to stay committed to running for town council instead of for mayor the campaign is calling on all of Hawthorne to sign onto Cayetano’s candidate petition. There is an online link similar to the process last year. It is really easy to complete. The petition requires your signature, full name, full address and zip code. Once again, signing a petition does not mandate a vote for that candidate. A signature sole purpose is to ensure that a candidate’s name will appear on the ballot on November 2nd. It can be signed securely here: http://bit.ly/CayetanoPetition
The campaign only needs 69 signatures but since people were asked to sign on for either of the two main parties’ tickets or for those challenging in the primary. Since this is an at-large race, the campaign goal is 400 from across every ward in town. The Cayetano4Council 2021 campaign will also utilize a QR barcode to allow for door to door contact-less collection. Finally, for those comfortable with it, the campaign will also circulate a traditional paper petition.
Cayetano said, “now is the time for everyone that wished they were able to vote in those previous races to help us first by getting us on the ballot in November. Our regular presence at council meetings, our thoughtful messaging, comprehensive platform and our leadership in township discussions on numerous critical issues prove we are capable of being your first choice for town council. Let’s make 2021 about the person and policies over party.”
The campaign is also asking for you to support Green Party candidate for Governor Madelyn Hoffman by signing onto her petition. You can sign it securely here: bit.ly/HoffmanPetition
“We are excited to get in the streets and talk with our wonderful constituents about the issues that matter to them the most. Listening is something that we value. It allows us to be a bridge towards real solutions. We can’t wait to work together and move Hawthorne Forward in 2021,” said Cayetano.
You can always reach out to the campaign through a variety of ways via phone (973)-433-6696 or email [email protected]. The campaign will be looking for volunteers and interns this year. You can learn more about the campaign at this website: Cayetano4council.com, Facebook: Cayetano4council, Instagram: @Cayetano4council and Twitter: @Green4Hawthorne
Hawthorne Residents & Local Businesses Deserve Outgoing Mayor, Council and Administration To Consider A Town Hall Discussion On Recreational Marijuana
‘Hawthorne Residents & Local Businesses Deserve Outgoing Mayor, Council and Administration To Consider A Town Hall Discussion On Recreational Marijuana’Photo Credit: Craig Cayetano
Our previous letter brought to light the plans of the outgoing mayor, town council and administration to pass another opt-out ordinance in May which you can read here. This led to a heated discussion during the April, 21 council meeting. Our borough Attorney Michael P. Pasquale starts at the 29:30 mark.
He states that I misinformed you. However, my information was cited. Furthermore, while he agrees that 64.5% of residents support the ordinance, he states his own misformation about policing to minors. This cleanup bill was passed to handle this issue. He admits to supporting ballot question #1, but not for a dispensary or business in our town. He doesn’t refute the points about the potential $10,000-$25,000 per month revenue the borough could see.
Pasquale states that “the mayor advised him to bring another opt-out ordinance to committee this May.” This leads credence that no other options were up for discussion. There are towns taking the full time to consider zoning medicinal/recreational dispensaries and are reaching out to the public through their websites. Some are holding virtual town halls, offering public surveys to residents and businesses.
To correct the record, I never asked for a referendum. I suggested that we use the time efficiently and since this is a zoning ordinance the work should be done by the administration now. I’ve already mentioned a few possible locations that are not near homes and away from schools and churches.
The borough attorney overstepped by telling the council they “cannot and will not while I’m the borough attorney start engaging in things like straw polls.” There is no reason why anyone on the council can’t offer their perspective; unless their outlook and perspectives haven’t truly changed since the 2018 opt-out. If people like former Congressman and House Speaker John Boehner can come around on their personal positions on marijuana, so can our council members and administration.
My public comments start at 1:02:40. Which focuses on creating dialogue and starting the conversation to take the necessary steps in finding a pathway toward this. I mention the Township of Randolph because if one municipality allows transparency and inclusive discussion Hawthorne deserves the same.
Even Randolph acknowledges that a dispensary is further down the road at least their town is using the timeline properly to hold town halls, offer a slideshow updating the public, a survey and showing key legislation with a fact sheet on their website. They even went as far as creating a subcommittee to handle this which I advocated for during the meeting.
Councilman Lane responded that he “doesn’t see the need for a subcommittee.” He mentions the August deadline and that the opt out can be revisited later but this logic just shows that nobody has truly been doing the homework here. It also appears to be another punt since we are about to begin a heated electoral season in town unlike ever before. Lane states that “maybe the council will want to opt into something but that is in the future and we still have a lot of homework to do.” Councilman Wojtecki said, “This is the public portion, this is where the public gets to say something I don’t agree in having to be or stating how we feel about it. Let the public say their stay five minutes worth and then we move on. I don’t want to have a conversation, I’m asking not to have a conversation at this time. It's not the public forum, it's the public time to speak for five minutes and we move on.”
How will 2022 Hawthorne plan to revisit this if Councilmen Lane and Wojtecki that opted out in 2018 still don’t see the importance of exploring all the options for the town before they potentially become Mayor Wojtecki or Mayor Lane? How will their administrations be any different? The call is on Mayor Goldberg now to lead on this and use the Borough of Randolph as the lead example.
Council President Matthews did go low on a few levels in his response starting at 1:08:05. Putting personal attacks aside, I actually reference other cities and towns to learn from their experiences. These other ordinances can help small businesses. It is doing your due diligence and sets precedence. Exploring different perspectives benefit us all. You do not need to grow up in a town to be elected. If this council thinks that way then nothing will truly evolve or change here in Hawthorne.
Numerous residents have posted on social media, called the borough and emailed the council their feelings on the meeting - the majority of whom see that the benefits outweigh the negatives.
A few business owners in town that said, “This is an opportunity for the town to lead on something and they are completely missing the point.” Another said, “alcohol is more of a gateway drug than marijuana. The council should be doing what's best for the constituents and the town overall. They should be leaving their personal beliefs aside and looking at this objectively.”
In closing, the conversations are happening on social media but need to include everyone. The whole town deserves their chance to speak. So please attend the council meeting tonight, review the agenda and ask the mayor to follow in the footsteps of Randolph and hold a Town hall, conduct a survey. Let Hawthorne discuss and then make the best decision for us all!
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/472199829
Craig Cayetano represents Hawthorne as the Green Party Candidate for Town Council or for Mayor in 2021 General Election
The Green Party of New Jersey Invites Everyone To Attend Its Online 2021 Annual Convention This Sunday May 2nd
“The Green Party of New Jersey Invites Everyone To Attend Its Online 2021 Annual Convention This Sunday May 2nd”
04/30/2021
The Green Party of New Jersey welcomes all of its registered Greens, dues-paying members, members of the press and those disenfranchised by the two-party system to attend its virtual 2021 Annual Convention via Zoom this Sunday, May 2nd, from 1:00-4:30pm. The “public session” is for everyone and will feature a keynote speaker, a panel and introductions by 2021 candidates. To attend you must register through this Zoom link:
GPNJ will welcome as keynote speaker Angela Walker, the Green Party U.S. 2020 Vice Presidential Candidate. She will speak about her community activism, reasons for running for higher office, and the recent campaign with Howie Hawkins for President during the pandemic. Her work continues and has shifted to help grow power outside the two-party system with the “Green Socialist Organizing Project.”
GPNJ also will feature a presentation from its Young EcoSocialists Caucus (YES Caucus) “Young Voices for a Green Tomorrow.” Matthew Skolar will moderate and feature panelists Chloe Alce, Alison Fajardo, Justin Roig and Anthony Samaniego.
Then, recently announced 2021 candidates for office will speak: Madelyn Hoffman and Heather Warburton for Governor and Lieutenant Governor. Barry Bendar for Ocean County Commissioner and Craig Cayetano–Cayetano4council for Hawthorne Town Council.
After candidate introductions, GPNJ will end the public portion and begin the “executive session” for registered and dues paying Green Party of NJ members. This will be the start of official Green Party of NJ business with officer elections, national delegate selections, committee and caucus recaps with breakout sessions and voting on potential bylaw amendments. The full convention agenda with potential bylaw amendments is posted on its website: https://www.gpnj.org/gpnjwp/2021-annual-convention/
The Green Party of NJ’s registered voters have reached 11,692 as of April 1st and nearly quadrupled since 2017! GPNJ welcomes you to join and participate as it grows, and works to build its reach and membership throughout 2021. You can find links to support Hoffman For Governor’s Gubernatorial Petition, Party Affiliation Form or to become a dues paying member here: https://linktr.ee/greenpartyofnj
We thank you for your continued support and hope to see you Sunday, May 2nd!
Hawthorne Republicans Face Primary Challengers in 2021 Elections
HAWTHORNE, NJ - On Wednesday, Borough Clerk Lori Fernandez filed her certification for the candidates' petitions with the Passaic County Clerk's Office.
The mayor's race will see no primary in either the Republican or Democratic parties. Republican Council Vice President John Lane will be vacating his seat as councilman-at-large in his campaign to succeed Mayor Richard Goldberg and face the Democratic mayoral candidate, Councilman Joseph Wojtecki, in the general election. However, the Republican councilmembers-at-large, incumbents Bruce Bennett, Dominic Mele, and candidate Anna Marie Sasso running to fill Lane's place, are facing three other GOP challengers.
Former Hawthorne Board of Education President Michael Doyle and Jay Shortway are Republicans running for council-at-large under the slogan of "The Change We Need!" Philip Speulda is running for councilman-at-large under the slogan of "Hawthorne Republican Values."
Hawthorne's Republicans will have the choice of voting for three councilmembers-at-large during the June 8, 2021, primary election.
The Hawthorne Democrats will not face any primary contests. Their slate for councilmembers-at-large consists of Ann Marie Peterson, Thomas Bushnauskas, and Hope Foley.
Green Party candidate Craig Cayetano is currently running an independent campaign for councilman-at-large.
Green Party of NJ Launches Petition Drive: Denounces Current Lawsuit Focusing Only On Ballot Design During Primaries
Hawthorne Will See Green Party Choice in the Upcoming General Election
Craig Cayetano, who had previously run for Ward 3 Councilman, has announced he will be seeking office again as an independent Green Party candidate, presenting another option for Hawthorne voters who are either unaffiliated or unsatisfied with the Republican and Democrat nominees.
Cayetano is the State Green Party Co-Chair and announced his intention to seek local office while the state party finishes its 2021 general election vetting process. "Our goals were to share new ideas, while offering new approaches on issues, engage with our local businesses and residents throughout the year of COVID-19. Our focus was always on showing up, speaking up, listening to people and focusing on building a grassroots following for 2021."
According to the Green Party, their ranks have grown following the 2020 elections. Membership "now stands at 11,560 registered Greens and recognizes dues-paying members, as well," the Party said in a statement. The Greens further cited a February Gallup poll which asserted that 62% of responders favor having a third party choice. Gallup said that 70% of independents favor having a third party, while Republican support following President Donald Trump's defeat by Joe Biden rose from 40% to 63%. Post-election support for a third party among Democrats dropped from 52% to 46%.
The Passaic County Greens said they would be holding a Zoom meeting on Sunday, March 14, between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. "I hope everyone can attend our county meeting this Sunday," Cayetano said. "The Green Party is growing, and we can make history in Hawthorne this fall. Our town is wonderful, trending younger and more diverse. The previous campaigns for Hawthorne Ward 3 opened the eyes of many people in town. Join us and consider running as an Independent Green Councilperson or Mayor in the general elections this fall."
The 2020 Ward 3 election returned Republican Mike Sciarra to his seat with 1,688 votes. Sciarra defeated Democrat Kimberly Maciejewski who took 1,014 and Green Craig Cayetano who took 296, according to the official election results from Passaic County. During the course of Cayetano's 2020 campaign, he was joined in Hawthorne by Green Party presidential nominee Howie Hawkins and US Senate candidate Madelyn Hoffman.
At-large candidates are not bound to specific territorial considerations within Hawthorne like the four ward candidates who can only be voted for by residents in their respective wards, but serve to represent the residents as a whole. This presents a different playing field for the parties' campaign strategies, which have the potential to gain higher numbers of votes over a wider area of the borough.
The Hawthorne Republican County Committee announced their slate, with Council Vice President John Lane running for mayor and at-large candidates consisting of Bruce Bennett, Anna Marie Sasso, and Dominic Mele. The Hawthorne Democrats will also be fielding a full ticket for mayor and council-at-large, with an official statement expected this week.
NJ Green Party Seeks Candidates To Run In 2021
One of the largest third parties in New Jersey needs candidates for town council, boards of education, mayor, county commissioner and more.
Eric Kiefer, Patch Staff
Posted Thu, Feb 25, 2021 at 11:50 am ET
NEW JERSEY — Your energy and time are valuable, and you shouldn't squander it to power a political party that "disrespects" you. That's the pitch from the Green Party of New Jersey (GPNJ) as it seeks candidates for office in 2021.
The GPNJ says it's seeking Garden State residents who want to run for offices across the state. That includes candidates for town councils, boards of education, mayor, county commissioners and state senators/assembly members.
There are 11,427 registered Green Party members in New Jersey, according to the party's recent count.
In 2020, Green candidates in the state included:
- U.S. Senate - Madelyn Hoffman
- Hawthorne Town Council – Craig Cayetano
- Brick Township Board of Education - Jessica Clayton
Hoffman, who earned 38,288 votes in her attempt to unseat Democratic incumbent Cory Booker, saw the second-largest total from a Green Party candidate in the state's history. Only Ralph Nader's results during the 2000 presidential race rated higher.
"When reflecting on the problems and tragic moments of 2020 and my recently completed Green Party campaign for U.S. Senate, I was reminded that there are many signs of hope that out of this year's difficulties, we can create a better world," Hoffman told Patch after last year's general election.
"The pandemic exposed many of the economic, environmental and social ills that have gripped this country for years, but somehow remained hidden or at least unaddressed as people simply struggled to survive," Hoffman continued. "But as a candidate for public office in 2020, I felt an overwhelming responsibility to envision a program to address these issues, and to speak out about them over and over again, side by side with the people affected and working for change."
"The record-setting numbers of people who voted Green in New Jersey in 2020 gives me reason to believe that there are ever-growing numbers of people who want to be part of creating this new kind of society," she added.
- See related article: NJ Green Party Has Inspiring 2020: 'We Can Create A Better World'
- See related article: Green Party Of NJ Youth Caucus Grows In Essex County
According to the GPNJ website:
"The Green Party of New Jersey seeks and recruits candidates for local and statewide offices every year. We look for candidates who understand that the Green Party is anti-establishment and operates independently of any other party. In addition, the Green Party of NJ seeks candidates who will uphold the Green Party's values of economic justice, grassroots democracy, social justice, non-violence, ecology, sustainability, decentralization, gender equality, diversity and responsibility. Candidates should also choose New Jersey specific issues to focus on during their campaign. While prospective candidates do not need campaign experience, we do hope all prospective candidates and their campaign staff are willing to be trained and learn along the way. The Green Party of New Jersey, and its local affiliates where applicable, will vet every candidate. GPNJ will provide resources and training for a successful campaign."
"Remember, the Green Party does not take corporate donations, so big money will not be pouring in," the website states. "It's important to start campaigning and fundraising early in order to give your campaign a head start."
Want to know more about what it takes to be a Green Party candidate? Learn more here.
Send news tips and correction requests to [email protected]. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Sign up for Patch email newsletters.
https://patch.com/new-jersey/newarknj/nj-green-party-seeks-candidates-run-2021
Passaic County SPCA “Mobile Pet Pantry” To Attend Martha’s Pantry at St. Clement’s Church
Passaic County SPCA “Mobile Pet Pantry” To Attend Martha’s Pantry at St. Clement’s Church
Hawthorne, NJ, January 14, 2021– The Passaic County SPCA will kick off 2021 with its first “Mobile Pet Pantry” event this Saturday, January 16 from 10 am -12 noon at Martha’s Pantry at St. Clement’s Episcopal Church located at 271 Lafayette Ave, Hawthorne NJ. The van will be there distributing dog and cat food until supplies run out.
Linda Heerema, manager of Martha’s Pantry said, “we are happy to have The Passaic County SPCA partner with us. Hopefully, this will have a good outcome for the community pets in need.”
Passaic County SPCA members have prepared 50 care packages for distribution with dry and wet food, as well as treats — 25 for cats and 25 for dogs.
“We are excited to get our new mobile pet pantry out into the community and thankful for our many supporters who donated generously during the holiday season,” said Stephanie Hornback, Passaic County SPCA board member and pantry coordinator. “That generosity means that we will be able to help more New Jersey families and their pets.”
Passaic County SPCA member Craig Cayetano added, “I’m very grateful for Martha’s Pantry helping those in need and allowing the Passaic County SPCA to participate and help as well. We are all doing our part to help in any way during this ongoing pandemic.”
In addition to the mobile pantry, the Passaic County SPCA hosts its own pet food pantry at its headquarters in Hawthorne on the first Saturday of every month from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
For more information, please visit: http://pc-spca.org/pet-pantry/.
The Passaic County SPCA is active on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Please follow, share and like their posts and events on social media. They hold monthly meetings via Zoom on the second Tuesday of each month at 8 p.m. and are open to the public. Here is the link to register for the February, 9th meeting:
About the Passaic County SPCA
The Passaic County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a non-profit, all volunteer, humane education and advocacy group. Operating since the 1890s, Passaic County SPCA is the ONLY agency in the county that focuses solely on the prevention of animal cruelty and neglect. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.pc-spca.org.
Unofficial Results: The Winners of the Hawthorne Elections Are...
Shortly after the 2019 election, Ward 3's Republican councilman, Garret Sinning, passed away, having defeated Democratic candidate Kimberly Maciejewski and Green Party candidate Craig Cayetano. The borough council elected Mike Sciarra to fill the vacancy until the 2020 special election. Leading up to that race, Sciarra sought to defend his seat against the 2019 challengers, Cayetano and Maciejewski.
As of 9:22 p.m., according to the unofficial results, the winner of the election is Michael Sciarra with 53.39%. The second highest vote-getter was Maciejewski with 36.16%, followed by Cayetano with 10.4%.
For the Board of Education, three seats were contested by five candidates: Kevin Bergen, Joe Carr, Michael Doyle, Alma Morel, and Anthony Puluse. Of the five, Puluse won 23.57%, Carr won 21.75%, and Morel won 21.73%. Michael Doyle and Kevin Bergen received 19.8% and 12.66% respectively.
In neighboring Prospect Park, incumbent Democrat Councilmembers Robert Artis and Felicia Ortiz took 35.90% and 37.57% defeating Republicans Thomas Magura and Maria Emma Anderson who took 13.26% and 13.06%.
On the state level, Passaic County voted 60.52% for Vice President Joe Biden (D) to 38.32% for President Donald Trump (R), 61.95% for incumbent US Senator Cory Booker (D) to 35.74% to Rikin Mehta (R), 79.4% for incumbent Congressman Bill Pascrell (D) to 18.56% for Billy Prempeh (R), and returns incumbent freeholders Bruce James (D) and TJ Best (D) 31.48% and 27.75% to William Marsala (R) and Matthew Conlon (R) 21.32% and 19.33%.
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Cayetano For Council: History Repeats Itself! All of Ward 3 Canvassed! Announces Election Night Unwind Event!
Cayetano For Council: History Repeats Itself! All of Ward 3 Canvassed! Announces Election Night Unwind Event!
History Repeats Itself! The Cayetano For Council Campaign, despite the inclement weather these past few days, was able to successfully canvass all of Ward 3.
Craig Cayetano said “I’m so grateful to all our volunteers! We have been trying to reach the whole ward, at least once but in some cases two to three times to discuss certain concerns and issues of importance with specific residents. I am glad to see a huge spike in voter turnout from last year with utilization of our new secure ballot drop box. No matter the results on Tuesday, I am proud of continuing to run a grassroots campaign, pledging to take no PAC, fossil fuel or developer money and earning the endorsements of Congressional and Board Of Education candidates, residents, activists and organizations since we filed. As I said before having more voices and choices is what democracy is all about. Every vote matters so I hope we still inspire our constituents to vote for us through Election Day on Tuesday.”
There is still work to be done in the next two days, so the campaign is shifting gears. As we approach the final stretch, it’s even more important for residents to research our campaign, platform and proposals. It’s as crucial as ever to reinforce the message of voting for the person over party. If you haven’t checked out the TAPInto Hawthorne questionnaire you can see that here: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/hawthorne/sections/elections/articles/questions-for-the-2020-candidates-ward-3-council
The Passaic County Greens, Cayetano For Council and Hoffman For Senate Campaigns are announcing Election Night Unwind (Socially Distant, Of Course) to support Hawthorne’s Billy’s Midway and Celtic Corner. Anyone is welcome to attend and discuss anything with fellow residents, Green Party members, and candidates Craig Cayetano and Madelyn Hoffman. You must register via Eventbrite for your green wrist band. There will be two 12 person blocks to game up at Billy’s Midway due to ongoing occupancy restrictions. Please sign up for your arcade block between 8-9pm and 9-10pm. You will pay Billy’s Midway for your admission when you arrive. We will have dedicated socially distanced tables at the Celtic Corner all night. There will be vegetarian, vegan options and a few drink specials for those attending through our event. This event might go past 10pm if we can pack in Billy’s arcade upstairs. Make sure to sign up for it here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/socially-distant-election-night-unwind-at-billys-midway-celtic-corner-tickets-127653050711
We thank everyone for supporting and voting for us this year! As an advocate for Hawthorne and Ward 3 we welcome the chance to truly work towards even further improving our wonderful town! Ward 3 please vote today Row D for all of our Greens and 6D for Craig!
Please check out our campaign on various social media platforms, website, email [email protected] and by phone #973-433-6696.
Website: https://www.cayetano4council.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cayetano4council
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cayetano4council/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Green4Ward3
Questions for the 2020 Candidates: Ward 3 Council
TAPinto Hawthorne sent a questionnaire to the candidates to help residents get an idea of where they stand on some issues as election day draws near.
The Third Ward council seat was won by the late Garrett Sinning (R) in the 2019 election. When Sinning passed in November, Anne Marie Sasso and Michael Sciarra sought to fill the seat as interim-councilmember, with Sciarra ultimately carrying the council's vote. As interim-councilman, he would serve until a special election was held in November. There are three candidates seeking the votes of Ward Three residents.
The responses received by TAPinto Hawthorne are listed below.
The candidates are listed in last-name-alphabetical-order: Craig Cayetano, Kimberly Maciejewski, and Michael Sciarra.
As a matter of policy, TAPinto.net in general and TAPinto Hawthorne in particular extend no endorsements to candidates and afford equal opportunity to all.
CRAIG CAYETANO (Green Party)
Website: https://www.cayetano4council.com
What special experience do you bring that will benefit the residents of Hawthorne by serving as Ward 3 council member that sets you apart from your competitors?
I grew up in a low-income household and can relate to people's day-to-day struggles during this ongoing crisis. I have worked as a veterinary technician and at sales, which allows me to have compassion, objectivity and the ability to negotiate on behalf of the residents of Ward 3. I am an environmental activist that is involved in numerous groups: Hawthorne Environmental Commission/Green Team, Passaic County SPCA, ANJEC and the Sierra Club. I helped to start a mutual aid group: Mutual Passaic County during the pandemic, am a founding member of Voter Choice NJ and am currently one of the state co-chairs of the Green Party of New Jersey. I work with people every day, in many different capacities and can put aside partisan party politics to forge a path ahead together. I’m not someone that is just going to fall in line. I stand up, speak up, make objective decisions and am a listener.
I have a full fledged website, platform, and a social media presence and have made this fun for our supporters. Running as an Independent Green Party candidate means I’m not taking any corporate money and my ideals align with all. I have a lot of support from Republicans and Democrats. I have had numerous campaign endorsements by people putting aside parties, including BOE members, residents, activists and organizations. In local politics it’s about the person not the party. Please consider supporting and voting for us -- 6D for Craig!
What is your overall vision for the borough of Hawthorne and how do you wish to implement that vision if you win?
CAYETANO - I envision a Hawthorne in which we unite as a community and welcome all who come to reside here. A thriving neighborhood with a robust small business based local economy. A town that offers a different feel than those around us with more arts and creativity. Even more green spaces, improving our infrastructure and working to preserve the environment for the future we deserve. I’ve been advocating for everyone to complete the census this year and I’m sure once we see that data, our population will grow and trend younger. We have to realize this and embrace different cultures and races. I’ve advocated for another flag pole so that we can hold dedications for other ethnicities and fly the progress pride flag.
I want to see us utilize the bandshell even more for events that focus on this as well. We could host a Passaic County Pride Festival at our borough bandshell. This would be a monumental step for our town and the county!
We had an amazing Solidarity March for BLM this summer that woke up the town and put us on the map. Many towns were amazed by the response and turnout we had. I’m very grateful for and respectful of our police, but we still need body cams and to discuss a few other items presented in the Call To Action we issued then. I can sit down and as an independent voice be the bridge between the arms of government, the police and our residents. There is no harm in a new direction when it comes to these issues. These are some of the advantages and strengths I bring to this council seat.
What do you think are three (3) specific matters that need addressing going forward with respect to Ward 3 concerns and how would you do so?
CAYETANO - Five Corners - Interest in the property is starting to pick up with new developers or potential new owners. I’ve publicly stated I would not support any commercial or retail space here. I’ve proposed that we work with the county and state to have them procure the land to turn this space into a Visitors Welcome Center. Goffle Brook Park does not have adequate parking on that end of town and the existing structure can be utilized as a space for the County Parks and Recreation Department. They can repurpose the canopy of the gas station and put solar panels on it.Install electric vehicle charging stations underneath for guests to use. The solar panels would power the stations and the main structure. There is the ability to fit approximately 15 cars for parking on the property. This will solve the issues of parking and easy access to that end of the county park. My approach will finally end the ongoing controversy at the space. The residents in the surrounding area, including myself, would welcome it only being used from dawn until dusk. There will no longer be a debate about another gas station, convenience or retail store bogging down that corner. The intersection is very tricky and any retail store would add an influx of traffic which potentially leads to accidents and congestion. I think this is the perfect solution and I would work towards coordinating efforts with the county and state. Here are photos of what it could look like on my campaign website: https://www.cayetano4council.com/future_focus_sustainability
Speeding and Safety - The last few years I have spoken up and made public comments at town council meetings about the need to implement more safety measures. Pedestrians, bicyclists and joggers need to feel safe on Rea Ave Ext., Goffle Rd., Goffle Hill Rd. and Lafayette Ave. Ext. While some recent stop signs and flashing crossing signals installed are nice, more needs to be done. I propose to reduce the speed limit on county roads, more police patrols up through the ward at night and installing speed plates. If North Haledon can be successful in reducing the speed limit on their county roads so can we. We need to have more patrols up these arteries of the ward. Every night there are vehicles that race outside my house up and down the hill and it's only a matter of time before an accident occurs. Speed plates installed at some of the cross streets will help reduce the amount of vehicles cutting through to save time avoiding traffic lights. I will gladly work with our county on these efforts.
Bike Pathways - Another important need is proper bike pathways to the center of town. If we installed bike corrals near major sections of the ward in downtown we could decrease the need for driving into the business district. You could bike to Sprinkles, Mr. Cupcakes, Stewarts, Olssons and other businesses. My idea is a more expansive bike pathway to connect Ward 3 with the whole town, schools, municipal pool and train station. If needed we can secure grants from the state and schedule a traffic study. I’ve laid out a tentative plan and bike pathway on my website as well.
What do you think are three (3) specific matters that should be addressed which affect the town as a whole and how would you do so?
CAYETANO - Pan Chemical - A future focused plan to remediate and utilize the space on the demolished property. I’ve laid out a plan that might take years but we would work with the county, state and NJ transit to build a proper parking garage, offer bike corrals, electric vehicle charging stations and a state of the art train station with proper shelter and bus stop added. A suitably constructed parking garage will afford our residents proper parking and utilize our train line more. It will also free up parking on Washington Ave for the residents there and on Grand Ave for businesses. This will help increase ticket sales out of our location which could lead to better train and bus services for our residents. I would work to bridge the negotiations on this important project.
Sustainable Future - Part of bringing our town into the 21st century would include installing electric vehicle charging stations which would benefit our business district, installing solar on the borough hall and municipal pool to power those structures and the bandshell. Start to install solar powered trash and recycling bins across town. We would analyze and work towards migrating our town’s power to sources that are renewable. We would evaluate a plan to migrate some of our municipal vehicle fleet towards electrics like other towns across the country. There are grants available to help offset the cost of some of these initiatives while the rest would eventually end up saving us money within a few years. You need someone like myself who works with the Environmental Commission and Green Team to help lead the charge and educate the rest of the town on the overall benefits. This is mentioned in my platform here: https://www.cayetano4council.com/ecological_wisdom
Business & Artistic Focus - We need to attract even more small businesses. I do not support big box chains and want more diverse culinary food choices and a small grocery store. I’ve called on us to embrace a younger, more artistic vibe like Boonton or Somerville with a nice downtown layout like Maywood. I don’t want us to be another Ridgewood or Glen Rock but align with the arts segment of our community. Recent successes like the revamped Rea House, Art In The Park, businesses like Rebel Child Designs and with Color and Whim opening here soon, it is clear that now is the time.
It would be great to have a restaurant row on Diamond Bridge and expand outdoor seating in the future there. It would need to be discussed and have input from the local businesses. I would want better seating, tenting, lighting and a stage to draw out performers would make the space like the pedestrian plaza in Jersey City or recently created in Montclair. We would need to explore adding a dedicated 15 minute parking for our businesses.
I would love to see us work to fill existing structures before exploring building more. I don’t support any more eyesore looking storage units which bring down homeowners property values, gas stations or convenience stores. I do hope that the new one slated for 204 Wagaraw will be designed to look like the townhomes set for that property. Westwood recently forced the developer there to do that when they installed a structure there which helps it blend in. You need someone to do outreach to the small businesses with connections throughout the state to lead these efforts. I mention this in my platform here: https://www.cayetano4council.com/community_based_economics
These are just some of the skills and benefits I bring to council. Please check out our website and social media for more. You can also call 973-433-6696 or email [email protected] - Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.
KIMBERLY MACIEJEWSKI (Democratic Party)
Website: https://www.facebook.com/maciejewskiforcouncil/
What special experience do you bring that will benefit the residents of Hawthorne by serving as Ward 3 councilmember that sets you apart from your competitors?
MACIEJEWSKI - After graduating law school I spent 10 years practicing as a Conflicts of Interest and Ethics attorney. Several years ago I shifted careers and now work for a Wall Street financial advisory firm, advising on corporate and business conflicts and regulatory issues. I am a daily professional problem solver and consensus builder as I help navigate complicated conflicts, all while supporting and growing business.
As an ethics advisor, I know that doing what is right must always come first, and I have the unique ability to discuss and provide counsel to others to help them navigate complicated ethical issues. I'd bring that same moral compass and spirit of problem-solving and consensus building to the Hawthorne Council, helping our leaders see beyond politics or personal disputes to help put the interests of Hawthorne residents first and build and support our neighbors and local businesses.
What is your overall vision for the borough of Hawthorne and how do you wish to implement that vision if you win?
MACIEJEWSKI - When my husband and I chose Hawthorne to call our home, we were attracted by the beauty, charm, and immense potential we saw. That potential still exists, it just needs leaders who think and act proactively in order to see it come to fruition. While the ability to call up your local councilperson to report an issue is part of the beauty I see in our community, it shouldn't take a phone call for a problem to be identified.
Proactivity means showing leadership and appointing committees to identify existing issues and then putting in the hard work of developing and implementing a plan to get things done. We need to work together to find solutions for attracting more high-quality businesses, developing empty storefronts, and improving the health and safety of our residents through the cleanup of environmental hazards. On day one I will work with my fellow council members and ask the hard questions including: why aren't we attracting more families, why don't we have sufficient commuter infrastructure, and why aren't we attracting the kind of businesses our community needs to keep tax dollars inside the Borough. Only then can we make changes to town policies and code that will proactively address these problems and help keep Hawthorne building for the future.
What do you think are three (3) specific matters that need addressing going forward with respect to Ward 3 concerns and how would you do so?
MACIEJEWSKI - Five Corners - The development of "Five Corners", the site of the closed down Shell gas station on Goffle Road, is a constant topic in Ward 3 politics. As a council member, my job is not to insert my opinion and tell my neighbors what I think should happen to the property, but rather to ask their opinion and build a consensus and plan for moving forward.
As the Ward 3 council representative, I will immediately create an open forum where we can come together as neighbors and have our voices be heard on what this space should look like. Comments would be collected online via a specially created page on the Borough website, and comment boxes will be set up at the Library and Borough Hall. After, special forums will be hosted to communicate and take additional commentary on the opinions of the submitted proposals.
The Borough then should act proactively to implement the neighborhood's preferred course of action. This may involve working with State and County officials to help convert the space, or working with the landowner to attract a different type of business to suit the neighborhood's needs. The goal should be to put a plan into place for the future of this site and begin executing on the development by the end of 2021.
I have opinions and preferences as a resident on what Five Corners would ideally look like, but I am only a single voice. I want to work together with my Ward 3 neighbors to come up with a plan for this space that improves our town and builds community partnership and engagement.
High School Drop Off and Pick Up Safety - While the COVID-19 pandemic has created lower levels of vehicle traffic along Warburton and Parmelee avenues, eventually our schools will re-open with full attendance. Previously I've advocated for a review of the pick-up and drop-off traffic patterns surrounding Hawthorne High School for both the safety of the children and the surrounding residential neighborhood.
The proactive approach would be to consider now making changes to Parmelee and Warburton traffic during school drop off and pick up hours. This would include additional safety measures along Warburton, such as the lengthening of the no parking areas to alleviate the "blind" nature of the Parmelee/Warburton intersection and considering stop signs and speed bumps along Warburton. The Borough should also consider the State of New Jersey's own "best practices" recommendation for schools located in residential areas and investigate designating either or both Bamford and Parmelee ave as one way during the morning and afternoon drop-off and pick-up hours.
Utilization of Goffle Park for Community Building Events - In recent years Passaic County has made significant improvements to Goffle Park, a large stretch of which resides in Ward 3. The Borough should be working with the county to utilize this space for regular community-building events. This beautiful open area creates the potential for a variety of musical, art, and other events that could help bring together residents from all corners of our town. While there are occasional informal programs hosted by residents, the Borough should develop a commission that helps formally promote regular gatherings and entertainment. This will be even more important as the Borough and our country begin to open back up after the pandemic has subsided.
What do you think are three (3) specific matters that should be addressed which affect the town as a whole and how would you do so?
MACIEJEWSKI - Smart Economic Development - Too many Hawthorne residents currently go elsewhere to shop, eat, work, and play while many buildings remain vacant or undeveloped. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the problem as existing businesses were forced to shutter due to state restrictions and health and safety concerns. Now is the time for Hawthorne's leadership to take proactive steps to help attract business to Hawthorne to fill our empty storefronts and serve the needs of the community.
Numerous programs exist to help our town identify the areas of "economic leak," specific categories of business where Hawthorne residents leave the area to shop and spend. We need to utilize this data, along with community feedback, and come up with a proactive and comprehensive plan for attracting new businesses and redeveloping sites that are currently in disrepair.
We also need to support existing Hawthorne businesses by promoting regular events that showcase the diversity of food, goods, and services they offer. In warmer months, for example, the Borough could consider initiatives such as "Thursday Night Art Festivals" in Goffle Park or along Diamond Bridge and/or Grand avenues, inviting local artists to mix with food vendors and performers. The Borough should also work with Passaic County to make the outdoor dining area from this past season a permanent fixture.
Inclusion - Another key characteristic of a thriving town is the feeling that everyone is welcome and appreciated. This attracts families, businesses, and development. If there is anything that 2020 has taught us its that we all need to do a better job of embracing our neighbors regardless of politics, religion, race, or sexual orientation. I believe Hawthorne needs to take a much more proactive stance in promoting a sense of inclusion of all individuals.
The Mayor took a much overdue first step this year by calling for the creation of a Hawthorne Pride Alliance. While I applaud this new group and their efforts to make the LGBTQ community feel welcome in the Borough, much more needs to be done. As a council member, I wouldn't wait for a recommendation to raise the pride flag in 2021, I would make the proposal myself along with the erection of a second flag pole at Borough Hall so that various other communities and causes can be proudly supported throughout the year. In connection, I would also propose that the borough host and promote monthly events both in person and via the online platforms, in an effort to educate and connect our diverse residents. This new inclusion initiative would work alongside groups such as the Pride Alliance to ensure all of Hawthorne's residents feel welcome and invested in bettering our community.
Modern Transit Center - As a council member, a key focus would also be working with New Jersey Transit, state, and other authorities to help develop a modern, safe, and attractive transit center for residents who commute for work or pleasure using the NJT rail system. The former Pan Chemical site is an ideal candidate for transformation into a commuter hub to ease residential congestion from current train station parking and attract additional business. While the building located on the property has recently begun to be demolished, the area remains an eyesore and an underutilized property that could be serving the needs of the community.
Hawthorne should immediately begin the process of evaluating transit center options including cleanup of the Pan Chemical property's environmental contamination, and opportunities for purchase or partnership with NJT to develop the site into a modern commuter hub and aim to have a plan in place by 2021. This is an example of another vacant space in our Borough that needs proactive leadership and a plan of action in order to convert the current hazard into an asset for residents.
In closing, Hawthorne needs new ideas and a proactive approach in order to reach its full potential and better serve its residents. I encourage everyone to vote for new leadership to help implement much-needed change and support our current residents and businesses. Most importantly, however, I would simply encourage everyone to vote, regardless of candidate or party. All voices deserve to be heard.
MICHAEL SCIARRA (Republican Party)
Website: https://reelectmikesciarra.com/
What special experience do you bring that will benefit the residents of Hawthorne by serving as Ward 3 councilmember that sets you apart from your competitors?
SCIARRA - Experienced, existing councilman and former Board of Education Trustee and past President.
History of Community involvement, Board of Education Trustee for 5 years.
Coached Special Needs Football and Rec Soccer.
Special need advocate and member of the Hawthorne SEPAC Special Education Parent advisory Council. As a parent of a special needs child, I understand the importance of awareness and acceptance and focusing on diversity and inclusion throughout the community.
Business owner - as a business owner, I have had an opportunity to have many different types of experiences, building relationships with people from CEO to the entry level employee. Budgeting, Inventory Control, managing P&L.
What is your overall vision for the borough of Hawthorne and how do you wish to implement that vision if you win?
SCIARRA - Focus on quality of life issues, community and family values.
Improve dialogue and communication with residents. Using social media I started shooting PSA videos highlighting some volunteer groups, services and local shops that are available in Hawthorne.
Continue to improve Hawthorne infrastructure and road system.
Embrace welcoming new residents into the community- It’s important to embrace new residents when they move into the community. With help from the Mayor and his administration staff, we were able to develop a New “Welcome Bag” to provide information and resources for a new resident along with a welcome letter from the Mayor.
Capitalize on NJ.com, which has recognized Hawthorne as a hidden food gem.
Expanding the arts such as the Borough Band Shell.
Promoting small business and shop local. Businesses are still struggling to survive, it’s now more important than ever to shop locally and support our small businesses, they are the lifeline of our community. They are the same businesses that supported the schools, fundraisers and sports teams and employ many local residents in the community.
Keep taxes law and Hawthorne affordable for the young and old alike.
What do you think are three (3) specific matters that need addressing going forward with respect to Ward 3 concerns and how would you do so?
SCIARRA - Five corners empty Shell Station on Goffle Road - There have been a lot of ideas floated on what the property should be, some interesting and some good. I would like to see the property be consistent with the neighborhood that affects the residents that are directly impacted in the area.
Speeding - I’m happy that we have recently addressed this issue with a Traffic Supervisor, Speeding has always been a concern for residents and having someone that can now evaluate and determine the best course of action towards public safety.
Managed redevelopment of vacant properties - Smart planning of properties that may become available, such as 3 Ronson “Patriot Hills” property on Goffle Road.
What do you think are three (3) specific matters that should be addressed which affect the town as a whole and how would you do so?
SCIARRA - Pan Chemical property - This property has been an issue for many years, Recently work has been being done as pre-deconstruction, to bring the buildings down to the slabs. Site remediation is the responsibility of the previous owner, Pan Chemical, and is being undertaken under the direction of a state-licensed LSRP (Licensed Site Remediation Professional) to ensure compliance with state regulations, with oversight by the NJDEP. I would envision a commuter Train Station where additional parking and small business would enhance the commuter resident experience and elevate the community.
Empty store fronts - Currently working with the Economic Development Committee to help revitalize empty storefronts in the borough.
Respect for our neighbors - Working together on what unites us, not what divides us. Work on common goals together. Let’s show the rest of the country what make Hawthorne a special place to live and be #Hawthornestrong.
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https://www.tapinto.net/sections/elections/articles/questions-for-the-2020-candidates-ward-3-council
Success! Cayetano for Council Brings Attention Across Hawthorne Ward 3 with “Meet & Treat and Coffee With Craig” Events
On Friday October 2nd, the Cayetano for Council Campaign held its “Meet & Treat” kickoff event outside Cayetano’s house. He was joined by Green Party Presidential Nominee Howie Hawkins and Green US Senate candidate Madelyn Hoffman. They held a livestream outside while supporters picked up materials, signs and enjoyed their ice cream. Hawkins and Cayetano then went aboard the truck and rode around Ward 3.
Hawkins has been traveling the country campaigning for president and made a few appearances in New Jersey over the weekend. His focus is on elevating down-ballot Green Party campaigns during this cycle and was warmly welcomed to Cayetano’s event. You can find out more about his campaign here: https://howiehawkins.us
Madelyn Hoffman, Green US Senate Candidate for New Jersey, made a special appearance as well. She spoke about her campaign, handed out materials, and rode along the route to say hi to the residents. You can follow her campaign here: https://www.hoffmanforsenate.com
This “Meet & Treat” wouldn’t have been possible without truck owner Shaker Matar, who is the town's locally permitted ice cream truck, Shaker Ice Cream Inc. He was very accommodating and even helped translate a few conversations with local Arabic families along the route. You can find out more about the services and parties his truck offers by contacting him here: (973) 689-5555
As the Cayetano For Council campaign drove around Ward 3, they met some supporters, but many residents were unaware of the campaign and event. Cayetano said, “I was pleased to hear people say that they had to come out for the ice cream truck since the jingle could be heard from blocks away. We met so many new faces across the ward which were very welcoming and positive to the message and free treat.” The event went even longer than expected and didn’t wrap up until almost 8pm.
The campaign continues to build momentum ahead of the mail-in ballots and held its second “Coffee With Craig” on Sunday, October 4th, at the Hawthorne Diner. Cayetano is setting aside time on Sundays to address any questions residents have and to discuss what is on the minds of those in the ward. “I want the people of Hawthorne to know that their future councilman can be easily accessible and wants to hear what’s on their minds, as well,” said Cayetano.
The campaign is so pleased at the reception to these events and welcomes partnering with even more small businesses win or lose. “I’m committed to this town: our homeowners, renters and small businesses. Let’s continue to shop, support, play and eat locally for them. Please consider voting Green row D or at least 6D for Craig in Ward 3 starting October 8th through mail-in ballot or in person, at the polls, with a provisional paper ballot on November 3rd. All the campaign’s recent endorsements, news, platform and how to volunteer and donate are located on the campaign website and various social media platforms.
Website: https://www.cayetano4council.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cayetano4council
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cayetano4council/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Green4Ward3
Craig Cayetano, Candidate for Town Council, Announces Special Event: Hawthorne Ward 3 “Meet & Treat” Friday, October 2nd 4-7pm
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Hawthorne, Completing Your 2020 U.S. Census Helps Everyone!
We are in the home stretch, the last week to complete the 2020 U.S. Census. You might have received the mailing earlier this year, for me it was March 23. It was a simple letter, with a link to the website and a phone number in multiple languages, which took only 5 minutes to complete.
On September 22, with less than a week left, Hawthorne is at a 77.6% self-response rate which is above the NJ 68.6% rate. We are 6.2% higher than the final numbers for 2010, but we need to strive for even more!
It has been noted that many communities were vastly under reported during the last U.S. Census in 2010. Hawthorne reported 18,791 people in the borough last time. There was only 3.4% Black or African American, 1.1% Asian and 24.2% Hispanic or Latino, but most identify as white. Senator Nellie Pou, chair of the NJ Legislative Latino Caucus said recently: “Regardless of your immigration status, how old you are, or how long you’ve been living in the state – if you were living in New Jersey on April 1, 2020, you count
Another important segment that is always forgotten is the renters in town. Nationally, the U.S. Census Bureau stated, “There was a 12.2 percent net undercount rate for black male renters age 30 to 49, and 6.1 percent net undercount rate for male American Indians and Alaskan Natives renters age 30 to 49, and a net undercount of 8.6 percent for Hispanic male renters age 18-29.”
Finally, I have spent the last few months speaking on behalf of the importance of completing this year’s 2020 U.S. Census: through social media accounts or during public comments at our Hawthorne virtual town council meetings. I have been pleased that the mayor has included it in some of his weekly letters. In that same article, the NJ Latino Caucus stated: “Over the next decade, lawmakers, business owners, and many others will use 2020 Census data to make critical decisions such as: what communities need new schools, new clinics, new roads, and more services for families, older adults, and children. The results will inform how hundreds of billions of dollars in federal funding are allocated to more than 100 programs, including Medicaid, Head Start, block grants for community mental health services, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP.”
I thank all the Census Enumerators working out in the streets and going door to door during this crisis. Please share this with relatives and spend a few minutes right now to complete the 2020 U.S. Census. The deadline is September 30. It can help us all!
Craig Cayetano represents Hawthorne as the Green Party Council Candidate in Ward 3 for 2020
Craig Cayetano, Council Candidate Hawthorne Ward 3 - Campaign is Taking off! Featured on Green Wave Showcase 9/10 at 9pm EST
https://www.facebook.com/GreenPartyUS/posts/10158624775609758
Last week, Cayetano was featured on independent news organization, Hot Indie Media’s “A Green World Is Possible - An Online Candidate Forum” with a panel of other Green Party candidates running for office across the country. He was able to discuss how campaigning has changed during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Here is a link to see that interview:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=658962234709825&extid=4VifUmFQvQbqMbL0
This past weekend the campaign was featured at the Annual Labor Day Parade at the American Labor Museum/Botto House in Haledon, NJ. The event was scaled down to ensure everyone’s safety. Everyone was told to wear masks, bring hand sanitizer, water and to social distance. Cayetano said, “It was great to be invited back for a second year with our campaign. I’ve attended the last four years through the Green Party and love seeing all the happy children and families as we march. I’m proud to support first responders, healthcare workers, laborers, Postal workers and Unions. I can’t wait to be back next year!”
As we get closer to October 5th when we start to receive mail-in ballots through to Election Day. You can keep up to date on the campaign at their website and consider donating: Cayetano4Council.com, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cayetano4council, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cayetano4council/?hl=en, Twitter: https://twitter.com/Green4Ward3
The opinions expressed herein are the writer's alone, and do not reflect the opinions of TAPinto.net or anyone who works for TAPinto.net. TAPinto.net is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by the writer.
Hawthorne & Every Town Deserves Its Own Secure Ballot Drop Box
One I feel is of utmost importance and urgency was my request to the council, mayor and borough administration to ask for our own secure ballot drop box to be installed in time for the general election. I informed everyone that as of last week, there were only five secure ballot drop boxes throughout Passaic County: Clifton’s Municipal Building, Passaic’s Municipal Building, Ringwood’s Municipal Building, Wayne’s Municipal Building and the County of Passaic Administration Building in Paterson. Here is the link to their addresses and locations.
I was shocked by this and hope everyone else on the call was as well. My request would require the council, mayor and administration to directly communicate with the Passaic County Clerk’s office. I asked them to do so and was told that they would make the attempt. It is my hope that they will have something to report by the next council meeting.
I support all pathways and access to voting. I myself understand and feel disheartened by in-person voting being reduced to a paper provisional ballot but there are ongoing safety and health risks due to COVID-19. We wouldn’t want to put the mostly senior poll workers at risk. I also understand the concerns of some voters that they are limited by having to vote by mail. Most people will feel inconvenienced by having to track down one of these scattered, secure ballot boxes.
https://nixle.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/pub_media/user38001-1597771500-media1
The only other reasonable and sensible option I see is to install one of these right here in Hawthorne and in every town ahead of the general election. Please join me if you agree and reach out to the mayor at, 973-427-1168. Call the Passaic County Clerk's office, 973-881-4127, and demand Hawthorne have its own secure ballot box installed. Let’s put partisan lines aside and allow for democracy to occur. Everyone ought to have easier access for casting their ballots! More information can be found on the evolving election process and upcoming sample ballots at this link:
The Passaic County Clerk's office can be reached at (973) 225-3632.
The Passaic County Board of Elections
Ken Hirmann, Office Administrator
401 Grant Street, Room 123
Paterson, NJ 07505 - Phone (973) 881-4780 - Fax (973) 523-9121 - Election Day Phone (973) 569-2181
Craig Cayetano represents Hawthorne as the Green Party Council Candidate in Ward 3 for 2020
The opinions expressed herein are the writer's alone, and do not reflect the opinions of TAPinto.net or anyone who works for TAPinto.net. TAPinto.net is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by the writer. Click here to submit a Letter to the Editor.
Craig Cayetano, Hawthorne Town Council Candidate for Ward 3 is Calling on Residents to Donate to the Passaic County SPCA
I’m Craig Cayetano, Council Candidate for Hawthorne Ward 3 asking you to help support the Passaic County SPCA and donate to help continue their efforts to provide to the community.
During their recent monthly meeting, it was mentioned for an increased need for more cat food donations. They’ve had a lot of requests by families for their Pet Pantry services especially, during the ongoing Covid-19 crisis. They are open the first Saturday of each month from 1-4pm. Their mission is to always provide to those in need.
The Passaic County SPCA is the only agency in the county that focuses solely on the prevention of animal cruelty and neglect. Your donation will help stock the Pet Pantry with the most important items needed at the time. You can donate through PayPal at this link.
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/SB5Y09A0F6ZK?ref_=wl_share
Finally, you can always drop off items in the bins provided at the front of their headquarters. They accept donations of new, unused wet and dry food and treats. This month’s efforts are focusing on donations of cat food, treats and litter. You can find more information on membership, volunteering, the Pet Pantry process on their website: http://pc-spca.org/ or on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PassaicSPCA
The opinions expressed herein are the writer's alone, and do not reflect the opinions of TAPinto.net or anyone who works for TAPinto.net. TAPinto.net is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by the writer. Click here to submit a Letter to the Editor.
Hawthorne is Evolving: Pride Month in 2020 and Plans for the Future
Mayor Richard Goldberg has once again displayed the Rainbow Pride flag in the window of the borough hall for June. Some have said that’s enough or that it’s a nice gesture, to those of us who are allies of the LGBTQIA+ community, it appears to be a measured step. Numerous calls were made to the mayor to take the flag out of the window and fly it on our flagpole. Even during the virtual Town Council meeting last Wednesday night, the mayor stood by this decision, despite our call for it to be flown, if not in June, then in July.
Mayor Goldberg did announce the formation of the Hawthorne Pride Alliance which will be led by Mike Stracco. We commend this amazing news since most communities do not have a town-backed group like this. Some towns may have a broader based Diversity & Equality Committee, but this is a very progressive move from our Republican Mayor. We have spoken with Mike and are letting the mayor’s office know we would like to be included as an ally during the formation of the Pride Alliance since there are a lot of details still to work out. We hope that the members of this new Alliance will be appointed by Mr. Stracco since we definitely need local lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, queer, intersexual and asexual representation.
Per our conversation, the bylaws and mission of the Alliance are being formulated. The mayor’s office is accepting calls and names to be considered. In the one week since being established, Mr. Stracco said “A lot has been accomplished with more in the coming week. I have been in contact with the Mayor at least once a day.”
Mr. Stracco has assured me that he will be working directly with the mayor to review everyone interested in joining the Pride Alliance.
Of course, everyone should attend and celebrate. Unfortunately, we found out that it isn’t all that inclusive. It is being organized by members of the Democrats of Hawthorne, who moved forward without input from the newly formed Pride Alliance. They have failed to directly invite Mr. Stracco of the Hawthorne Pride Alliance to attend.
Pride events should transcend partisan politics, but it appears that under the guise of a community event, party politics may be involved here. Mr. Stracco said: “I received a Facebook message from someone I’m not friends with to notify me that a few members of the community will be gathering at Borough Hall Friday night. That’s all. I said thank you, but have not been formally invited or asked to have a liaison speak.” Mr. Stracco also said, “This Alliance will be a non-partisan group and welcomes everyone to join.”
The Green Party has stood up for LBGTQIA+ community for decades. We have a New Jersey caucus: Lavender Greens and a National Lavender Greens Caucus that helps to steer our party, policy and platform. What we need in town is to allow people to be heard that have felt hidden or unwelcome. Hawthorne needs to show them that we are, in fact, a welcoming community.
Each year, more students are identifying as transgendered or non-binary. As a town we need to show support and camaraderie and that our community is becoming more open and diverse. Hawthorne is beginning a new chapter in becoming more inclusive, so we call on the newly formed Hawthorne Pride Alliance to support and fight for the following now and in the future:
The town should raise the Progress Pride Flag starting this July 2020, not just the traditional rainbow flag. The reason is to show support for our Transgender community and the black transgendered community, communities still persecuted each day in this country.
The town should cover the purchase and installation of a separate flagpole if we cannot fit all the flags on the existing one. Temporarily moving the New Jersey State flag to another pole or take it down for now as an interim solution. There is room in the budget to buy a second pole. It could be situated right next to the current one.
We call for the town to work to promote Pride month in June 2021. Our pride month should begin with a giant kick-off party held at our Borough band shell, which will ring in the start of its season the first weekend of June. Many towns have celebrations for Pride. We can be a leader and host a large event for our county to respect and help promote.
We recognize the importance of Mayor Goldberg in creating the Hawthorne Pride Alliance but recognize that as an ally, we must work to elevate the issues our LBGTQIA+ community wants. We look forward to assisting in any capacity as the Alliance is formalized. I particularly look forward to next year when I can assist and support the Pride Alliance, hopefully as your Ward 3 councilman.
The opinions expressed herein are the writer's alone, and do not reflect the opinions of TAPinto.net or anyone who works for TAPinto.net. TAPinto.net is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by the writer. Click here to submit a Letter to the Editor.
Hawthorne Green Party Candidate Craig Cayetano Receives Endorsement from Journalist Chris Hedges
HAWTHORNE, NJ - Chris Hedges, a Pulitzer prize winning journalist, visiting lecturer at Princeton, and briefly a Congressional candidate in New Jersey's 12th district, has released an endorsement of the New Jersey Green Party candidates, which include Hawthorne Ward 3 candidate Craig Cayetano, according to a statement.
The Green Party ticket also includes Howie Hawkins for President of the United States, Angela Walker for Vice President of the United States, and Madelyn Hoffman for the United States Senate.
"These candidates embody Green Party values," Hedges said. "They know that the mainstream political parties have not, and will not, invest in people rather than corporations. They will never reform the systems of social control embodied in the police, the war industry, and prisons."
Hedges blasted the Democratic and Republican parties, saying, "Our enemy is the tiny cabal of corporate oligarchs who have seized control of the two ruling parties, the three branches of government, the media, academia, our health services, and the economy. They have usurped our rights to exclusively serve corporate profit. This is especially true in New Jersey, which has one of the most corrupt Democratic Party machines in the nation."
Those wishing to sign petitions for Cayetano must live in the Third Ward of Hawthorne.
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Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist Chris Hedges Endorses Green Party of NJ 2020 Candidates
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist Chris Hedges Endorses Green Party of NJ 2020 Candidates
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25th, 2020
The Green Party of New Jersey is proud to announce that Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, author, and activist Chris Hedges endorsed all GPNJ candidate campaigns for 2020. They are: Howie Hawkins and Angela Walker for President and Vice-President, Madelyn Hoffman for U.S. Senate, and Craig Cayetano for Council in Ward 3 in Hawthorne.
In his letter of endorsement, Chris Hedges writes, “I endorse the Green Party campaigns of candidates Howie Hawkins for President and Angela Walker for Vice President; the campaign of Madelyn Hoffman for U.S. Senate; and the special election campaign of Craig Cayetano for town council, Ward 3, in the town of Hawthorne. These candidates embody Green Party values. They know that the mainstream political parties have not, and will not, invest in people rather than corporations. They will never reform the systems of social control embodied in the police, the war industry, and prisons.”
He continued, “These candidates are facing important deadlines for filing petitions to place them on the November ballot. They need our help in obtaining the signatures to meet election requirements…We must step outside the system, to pit power against power, as tens of thousands of courageous men and women are doing in hundreds of American cities. This process of radical change will not be easy. It will not happen quickly or in one election cycle. It is a process, especially given the ecocide and corporate serfdom that confronts us, that we must embrace as a moral imperative. Voting is a small part of this process, but it sends an important signal to the ruling elites that their time is up, or soon to be up. We must stop fearing them. They must start fearing us.”
Madelyn Hoffman faces a July 6th deadline (technically July 7th at 4pm) for submitting signatures. Her petitions can be signed on-line here: www.hoffmanforsenate.com/petition. Anyone eligible to vote in New Jersey who has not signed another petition for U.S. Senate may sign this petition.
Craig Cayetano faces the same deadline for submitting signatures. His signatures can be submitted on-line here: https://www.cayetano4council.com/candidate_petition To sign for Cayetano, you must live in the third ward of Hawthorne.
Howie Hawkins and Angela Walker have until July 26th, 2020 (technically July 27th at 4:00pm) to submit their petitions. Anyone in New Jersey eligible to vote who has not signed anyone else’s petition for President, can sign these petitions. Please help these Green Party candidates get on the ballot in November so they can carry this fight to the voting booth.
The link for electronic signatures for the Hawkins for President campaign is: hawkins20.us/njpetition.
Continued Hedges, “Our enemy is the tiny cabal of corporate oligarchs who have seized control of the two ruling parties, the three branches of government, the media, academia, our health services, and the economy. They have usurped our rights to exclusively serve corporate profit. This is especially true in New Jersey, which has one of the most corrupt Democratic Party machines in the nation.”
He concludes, “Thank you for supporting the Green Party. The Green Party and its candidates stand unequivocally with those in the streets fighting institutionalized racism and those organizing strikes and work stoppages among frontline workers. The party seeks to express and honor the aspirations of those leading the current generational and class revolt shaking the foundations of New Jersey, the nation, and the world.”
Craig Cayetano Calling on Ward 3 to Sign Candidate Petition for November’s Special Election
Craig Cayetano Calling on Ward 3 to Sign Candidate Petition for November’s Special Election
Craig Cayetano-Candidate Hawthorne Ward 3 #973-433-6696
Madelyn Hoffman-Communications Chair, Green Party of NJ, #973-876-1023
Craig Cayetano, 2019’s Independent Green Party Candidate for Hawthorne’s Ward 3, announced on social media a few months ago that he intended to run again for Town Council in this fall’s Special Election. Sadly, this seat in Ward 3 opened up due to the untimely passing of Garret Sinning after the election last fall. The seat is being filled temporarily by Michael Sciarra.
Normally, door to door collecting wouldn’t be an issue, but because of ongoing sensitivity surrounding Covid-19, Cayetano will be forced to utilize an online petition link to help attain the required numbers. His campaign will also utilize a QR code to allow for door to door contact-less collection and finally, for those comfortable with it, a traditional paper petition. Cayetano said, “We ran an amazing campaign last year! It brought our town together to embrace and include everyone on local issues. I have maintained that energy and continue to be out in our community during Covid-19. I attend Hawthorne council meetings online and have been providing mutual aid support to people in town and across Passaic County. So, in this last month, I will need all of our supporters in Ward 3 to help to secure enough signatures, so I can be on the ballot this fall.”
Governor Murphy allowed candidates to utilize an emailed petition link to secure the signatures for this year’s elections and the New Jersey Green Party candidates for Town Council, US Senate and President/Vice President are all working hard to reach their objectives. Signing on a petition does not mandate a vote for them. The process is secure. A signature is solely designed to ensure that a candidate’s name will appear on the ballot on November 3rd.
Here are the links to Craig Cayetano’s petition, as well as the other Green Party candidates petitions in New Jersey:
Cayetano4council-https://www.cayetano4council.com/candidate_petition
Hoffman For Senate 2020-https://www.hoffmanforsenate.com/petition
Howie Hawkins/Angela Walker For President & Vice President-http://hawkins20.us/NJPetition
Finally, all petition signatures for Craig must be submitted to the Passaic County Clerk’s office by Tuesday, July 7th at 4:00pm. “It is inspiring to see our community supporting each other, our elderly, those immunocompromised and our local businesses, during the COVID crisis. I am glad that everyone is coming together to stay positive and safe. I thank you all for supporting our race last year and look forward to working together to win in 2020! I am committed to our town and will run next year for an At-Large seat, if need be,” said Cayetano. You can check out more about the campaign at their website: Cayetano4council.com, Facebook: Cayetano4council, Instagram: @Cayetano4council and Twitter: @Green4Ward3
The opinions expressed herein are the writer's alone, and do not reflect the opinions of TAPinto.net or anyone who works for TAPinto.net. TAPinto.net is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by the writer.
Protestors Release Policing Call-to-Action, Chief McAuliffe Discusses Body Cameras
TAPinto Hawthorne spoke with Police Chief Richard McAuliffe for his thoughts following the demonstration. "I think there are issues," McAuliffe said, "not so much in New Jersey but throughout the country. Every state has different policies on use of force. New Jersey does have some of the strictest laws on the use of force, we have race and bias policies. We adhere to the policies. I think they have a right to be heard. There are problems."
Regarding body cameras, McAuliffe said that there had been a program that was delayed, but they were in the process of working through it for implementation. "We had a [body camera] program in 2016," McAuliffe said, "we took four or five cameras to find the camera we wanted. We had our pilot program spread out over a couple months. We went to a vendor, the vendor went belly-up. So, the company that bought them out is coming to replace them and our equipment that doesn't work with brand-new stuff at no cost to us. That was the issue."
McAuliffe said that bodycams were their choice following a mandate for police cameras. "When the mandate came out, we went right to body cameras. We got some grant money for it, we started it, bought it, then it fell through, and we've contacted [the new company].... "The policy is out there, the policy is written, it's just a matter of the mechanics of the other ones. We couldn't get a hold of anybody to get them up and running and if you don't have the whole system, it doesn't work. We're continuing to work on progress with body cameras."
At the end of the rally Mayor Goldberg said to TAPinto Hawthorne, "I think we got to see what the constitution intended, peaceful protest. I was pleased to see how well-mannered the crowd was and how understanding. They have their grievances, they have discussed their grievances. I hope we are all better for it and happy to come here to march."
Call to Action: Hawthorne’s Time to Embrace Systemic Policing Changes
1. THAT THE TOWN COUNCIL, MAYOR, & CHIEF OF POLICE SIGN A COMMITMENT TO ACTIVELY COMBAT RACIAL INJUSTICE WHILE CARRYING OUT THEIR DUTIES OF OFFICE.
2. THAT THE TOWN AND THE CHIEF OF POLICE ENSURE SOMEONE WITH A HEART CONDITION DOES NOT HAVE A STUN BELT OR TASER USED AGAINST THEM.
3. THAT THE TOWN COUNCIL PASS A LOCAL ORDINANCE REQUIRING A LIVE BODY CAM ON ALL ACTIVE DUTY HAWTHORNE POLICE OFFICERS ON PATROL.
4. THAT THE TOWN COUNCIL AND POLICE DO NOT SUPPORT ANY MEMORANDUM OR ORDINANCE TO ENTER AN AGREEMENT WITH RING, A DOORBELL SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM OWNED BY AMAZON.
5. THAT THE TOWN COUNCIL PASS A LOCAL ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING AN INDEPENDENT CIVILIAN REVIEW BOARD CONSISTING OF COMMUNITY MEMBERS THAT HAS THE FOLLOWING POWERS:
a. Make recommendations and suggestions about police protocol to the town council and police department.
b. Review and make suggestions to alter the existing use-of-force continuum.
c. Receive and investigate complaints of excessive force, abuse of power, obstruction of justice, and racial profiling.
d. To have discretion over the publication of body cam video in the aftermath of a heinous case of police injustice if it occurs in Hawthorne.
e. Issue subpoenas and have power to investigate complaints about community police behavior
f. Participate in police union contract renegotiation.
g. At least one member of the board must be a representative that is under 21 preferably someone 18 years old.
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"Black Lives Matter" Thunders at Hawthorne Rally
The Hawthorne community assembled a large gathering of peaceful but highly energized supporters, with Black Lives Matter representatives and supporters from neighboring towns such as Paterson and Prospect Park as well. Organizers included Arbresha Ahmeti, who served as an emcee; Craig Cayetano; Melissa Lambert; Meaghan Touhey; Kevin Bergen; Jim Bushoven; and Sam Nygard. A sea of masked faces, as the coronavirus has not disappeared, collected at the Municipal Swimming Pool parking lot area while the Hawthorne Police Department provided traffic control. Before marching, the crowd was addressed by several of those involved in the movement including Black Lives Matter representative Zellie Thomas and the Rev. Jim Bushoven of the Rockpoint Community Church in North Haledon.
Chants of "No justice, no peace!" and "George Floyd matters!" resonated off of the many homes and businesses up and down Lafayette Avenue. The energy was palpable and residents watched from their lawns or doors while others handed out water bottles.
"I run a group called Light Upon Life," Amalia Rodriguez said, as she waited for protestors to get to the municipal building on Lafayette Avenue. "I want to bring awareness to people through performing arts." She had a stand with 300 waters and 100 snacks to offer marchers. "If I can do anything, I want to be kind."
“This is their right,” said Matt Brandt, a homeowner out on his porch. “As long as they’re peaceful. What I would like to know is what’s the end game here? What does good look like?"
Resident John Rock waited on a bench on Lafayette Avenue for the marchers to reach him. "I’m proud to be part of it."
As the demonstrators passed by the home of Daria Boyd, she watched with tears in her eyes, recalling the unrest of the sixties. "We should be so embarrassed by this kind of injustice," remarking with sad astonishment that in the year 2020 such demonstrations were still needed.
In another sign of solidarity many Hawthorne residents were offering cold water, face masks, hand sanitizer, and their support.
Mayor Goldberg lauded "the peaceful protestors who know that they, too, can participate without fear. I'm proud to be the mayor of such a diverse community. The Hawthorne of 2020 is not the Hawthorne of 1950. The Police Department of 2020 is not the Police Department of 1950. They are better educated and better trained."
Assemblywoman Lisa Swain said, "Since the tragic and horrific murder of George Floyd, demonstrations just like this one have occurred not only across America but throughout the entire world. And calls for justice, fairness, and equality have been heard loud and clear. As a legislator here in New Jersey, I stand here today to let you know I hear you and I am listening."
"I see you, I walk with you, and now I want to hear you," Police Chief Richard McAuliffe said to the crowd. "Stand strong together against violence and racism. I'm here to listen... I saw that video, I heard you... racism is a stigma and a lack of understanding. Black lives matter!"
Craig Cayetano was glad to see the local support from the borough government and police. "There are towns where no leadership showed up. This is supposed to be local, not a political event. I give credit to Mayor Goldberg for speaking, and as a Republican mayor in a Republican town, when he says 'Black Lives Matter', it makes waves, it matters. Same with the police chief. To have them speak is very encouraging." Cayetano is the State Co-Chair of Green Party NJ and Passaic County Greens as well as a community organizer and activist. He serves on the Hawthorne Environmental Commission/Green Team.
Zellie Thomas who spoke at the pool lot is a Paterson teacher, an organizer, former council candidate, and Black Lives Matter representative. "He's fought for justice and leading events locally, and he's been running North Jersey Mutual Aid collecting meals," Cayetano said.
Paterson Board of Education member and activist Corey Teague was also among those who spoke, calling for an end to systemic racial injustice.
Selaedin Maksut, from the Council on American-Islamic Relations-NJ, offered a prayer, saying no one was superior to another, and all the prophets condemn racism. "Racism is ignorance and an offense to God... our fight and protest for justice cannot stop."
"Our nation was quick to mobilize to fight coronavirus," another speaker said, calling for the nation to mobilize and fight against racism.
As the speakers addressed the crowd, personal stories were offered up recounting instances in which they and those they knew were discriminated against, felt threatened, and other injustices endured.
Tamara Jenkins representing Necessary Trouble Makers called for police to "End the no-snitch culture, end the warrior training.... we are not the enemy.... It'll take more than feel-good moments to earn our trust."
Another speaker railed against violence, saying, "Do not destroy your neighborhood or allow anyone from outside to destroy the neighborhood." He also praised white allies, but cautioned them, "Do not let your enthusiasm outshine us."
Those who took up the megaphone to speak and offer their stories and insights included Lynda Gallashaw, Monet Kendall, Summer Davis, Terrell Hughes, and more, according to the event organizers.
The rally ended at 3:00 p.m. with impassioned speeches and prayers from Rev. Dr. Michelle White and Minister Chandra Frazier, before the demonstrators dispersed, many headed back to their vehicles at the pool lot.
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Hawthorne Community Organizes March In Solidarity with Black Lives Matter
Communities across New Jersey and the country have come together in solidarity to support Black Lives Matter. We as a community denounce the death of George Floyd so organizers in Hawthorne, New Jersey have come together to host a march on Sunday, June 7th from 1-3pm. We are asking for people to meet at the municipal pool at 1pm. There will be an opening blessing by Pastor Jim Bushoven. An opening statement by local Black Live Matter Paterson Organizer Zellie Thomas and a call to march by TJ Powa.
We thank you all in advance see you Sunday!
Green Party of New Jersey To Host Annual Convention Online, Presidential Primary Continues Until May 5th, 2020
On this May Day The Green Party of New Jersey-GPNJ stands with and in solidarity to all workers across this state and country! This pandemic continues to show the cracks in the capitalist economy and pulls back the thin veil hiding the strain on our critical medical care system, food supply and all necessary resources.
The Green Party of New Jersey- GPNJ has continued to organize and advocate for those affected during this ongoing Covid-19 crisis and has their Annual Convention streaming online tomorrow Saturday, May 2nd via Zoom from 1-4pm EST. Here is the link to sign up to attend virtually.
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/uZwpde6prTMuqMrDg6m1qxAcmYCyY9NrdQ
The Annual Convention is when new leadership is elected, caucuses and committees report and by-law amendments are heard. GPNJ’s newly formed YES-Young Ecosocialists Caucus will announce the results of their officer elections at the convention. They welcome Margaret Kimberley as guest speaker. Margaret Kimberley is the author of the recent book Prejudential: Black America And The Presidents. Craig Cayetano-Cayetano4council, one of the current state co-chairs, will be moderating the event live streamed in partnership with New Jersey Revolution Radio. Madelyn Hoffman-Hoffman For Senate will also speak about her campaign for NJ US Senate this fall. She is still seeking New Jersey registered voters that haven’t signed any other Senate candidate petition to sign online via this link.
https://www.hoffmanforsenate.com/petition
The Convention overlaps with the 2020 Green Party Presidential Primary Nomination. Due to the Covid-19 crisis changes in procedures had to be made. GPNJ moved the process to select their presidential candidate to an online ballot request as well. Ballots were emailed to registered and dues paying Greens this past Wednesday and can be submitted until May 5th 2020 at 11:59pm. If you are a registered or dues paying member and haven’t received your ballot you must follow the link through the Convention page on the main website. This link includes the convention agenda, Presidential candidate videos and the steps to sign up to request the ballot.
https://www.gpnj.org/gpnjwp/2017-annual-convention/2020-annual-convention/
The Green Party of New Jersey had over 11,214 registered Greens as of March 1st, 2020 and will continue to grow with your support and participation! You can still complete a NJ Party Affiliation Form and email it to the GPNJ Elections Chair if you wish to participate and request a Presidential Candidate Ballot. The email to send these forms back to us securely is at [email protected]. Please reach out to us at our website, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with any questions.
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Hawthorne Residents Cayetano and Arias Establish "Mutual Passaic County" Aid Group, Seek Donations
"A few other areas were starting to take off," Cayetano told TAPinto Hawthorne, "and I decided to start off the Passaic County one. When you start these off you don’t know where it’s going to go, so I made mine pretty broad. I was collecting and dropping off PPE, making phone calls for people who need to talk, and the big thing is trying to get goods and meals to people. I was helping my friend in Paterson deliver meals to people for a few weeks—I’m still helping there—and I had another friend need help with driving and dropping off face shields."
Cayetano said that PPE was being made out of Montclair State and distributed to where it was needed. "They literally started a little factory and distribution place, then they moved to another facility, and they’re making face shields to drop off to all the hospitals and healthcare professionals. They need people to do the runs, because they can’t do everything, so I said I’d be happy to deliver. I’ve been delivering face shields all over, now I’m starting to do the grocery deliveries. I started that with my own money to get it started, since people don’t donate blindly, but I started visiting a few families in Paterson and Passaic."
Cayetano described Sunday night as "a big one". "Viviana had told me she was going to get baskets together and during the day we had a family in Hawthorne leave out donations of food, toilet paper, and paper towels. Sunday we went to four families in Hawthorne, one in Haledon, one in Paterson, and four other families in Passaic. So we delivered to ten families between the two of us."
To connect, Cayetano said that those looking to volunteer, donate, or those who are in need can reach out through their Facebook page. "I have my phone number there," Cayetano said. "Some people have volunteered to do drop offs, which is nice, but we really need physical donations of items like toilet paper, paper towels, and basic essential foods. Or [monetary] donations so we can go buy the food. We’re trying to work with local grocery stores that are willing to cut us a bit of a discount, smaller stores or bigger stores, to make this as affordable as possible."
"Everyone wants to take care of their own, but one hand washes the other," Cayetano said. "One day we might do more deliveries in Passaic, but the next day we do Hawthorne or Haledon, it’s all going to work itself out. We are using our personal money as best we can but we definitely need donations as well."
To help towards this end, they set up a GoFundMe page presently set with what Cayetano called "a modest goal" hoping that it can be met. He said that every county's Mutual Aid group is different, and stressed that the Hawthorne-based Mutual Passaic County was hoping to get physical donations to help out the local communities as best as possible. "We don’t know how long we’ll be in this. It might be two weeks, a month, but there are people who are going to need help weekly."
"One lady said that this year they cut food stamps," Cayetano said, "so everyone’s allotment dropped. So, now they’re getting less." When asked how much of a decrease was in place, he said, "The drop depends per person. About ten to twenty dollars per person, which doesn’t seem like a lot but it is a lot for those people, so they’re trying to stretch a dollar every which way. There might be some products that we can’t grab but if someone has disinfectant or baby wipes. I had one family that needed diapers. We’re getting requests for all sorts of stuff. We might need volunteers to drop off things but most importantly right now are donations of goods to try to help."
Mutual Passaic County can be found on Facebook here.
Mutual Passaic County's GoFundMe page can be found by clicking here.
Nuestra Comunidad Latina nos puede contactar al 973-433-6696 or nos puede enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected] o a nuestra página de Facebook “Mutual Passaic County."
Governor Murphy: Extend Democracy To The Green, Libertarian, Socialist Parties and All Independent Candidates During This Crisis
Cayetano For Council Thanks Volunteers, Voters and Hawthorne For Their Support!
We focused our attention on local small businesses by hosting fun and engaging events, from our Tag N’ Sip at Strange Moon Creative Shop-Rebel Child Designs to raise awareness on environmental issues, to our Voter Registration Drive with the Passaic County Greens at Billy’s Midway. Many local businesses posted our flyer to register to vote in a new and fun way. Our town is a gem, so I must also thank some of our fine dining establishments that helped feed our supporters: Fat Moe’s, El Gallo and Andy’s Corner. Tom and the staff at Andy’s Corner were very cordial and patient with our team as we hosted our weekend recap Breakfast Meetings on Sundays and our Coffee With Craig: Q&A there last week. I, like everyone else in town, am saddened by its sudden closure.
We collaborated with the Passaic County Greens and Strange Moon Creative Shop-Rebel Child Designs to host a donation drive for those displaced by the fire at Straight and Narrow in Paterson. I publicly commented to thank Mayor Goldberg, the administration, council and the Municipal Alliance Committee for getting involved and collecting items, as well.
Thanks to the media: InsiderNJ featured our statement Cayetano For Council Announces 1700+ Doors Touched in Ward 3 & Campaign Endorsements! Video endorsements on Facebook had an amazing impact. They showcased current elected officials, former candidates, candidates this year and of course Hawthorne Ward 3 residents! Thanks also go to TAPinto Hawthorne, The Gazette and Hawthorne Press for their coverage of our campaign.
As our campaign went door to door and to businesses we heard people’s concerns and understood that there might be a long road ahead in making the town aware of the importance of our campaign. As an Independent Green Party candidate, we are automatically the underdog. I planned to visit the whole Ward at least once and in some cases, 2-3 trips back to talk to constituents who were still evaluating us. The hurdle was trying to convince them to believe in our message and then come out to vote. I think we succeeded, since they started to see that this was a Tri-Partisan race and that any one of us could win.
As I mentioned earlier, Independent candidates have to work 2-3 times harder to earn these voters' trust and respect. We also have to work hard to move people to look down the ballot since the main parties always fight for the top “A or B Row” by filling in their lines. This automatically equates to extra votes. Our team worked extra hard to point out our ballot location with messaging and visuals to “Vote Row C for Craig.”
I’m proud of the message, communication, vision and platform in our campaign. That’s what led many Independents, Republicans and Democrats to support us. Naturally, I made mistakes, which I’m happy to admit. It was a learning experience. I honestly feel we all have lessons to learn from the low 26.02% turnout for the next election.
One way is to work toward adopting Ranked Choice Voting here in New Jersey. We currently have two bills in the state assembly, A1801 and A5205. One addresses local races and the other the larger gubernatorial, congressional, senatorial and presidential ones. This voting technique would eliminate the “spoiler argument” since voters would rank all the candidates that appear on the ballot instead of picking just one. Maine has led the charge to adopting this, increasing voter turnout and support, as have a lot of cities across the country. Other states are working to adopt RCV in the next 1-2 years. NYC just passed it for their citywide primary races on November 5th. It actually saves cities and states money. It acts as its own runoff election and allows people that felt disenfranchised to come back to the political process. They can vote for a candidate they align ideally with first, then their backup second and maybe the one they dislike third. Candidates are knocked out round by round until there is a 50+1 majority in a single seat race or a 33+1 majority in a dual seat race like the state assembly. It’s something I am personally working on here in New Jersey. I’ll happily share more about this in the upcoming weeks.
Finally, I congratulate Gary Sinning and wish him the best this term. I’m offering him my time, knowledge and perspective to work with him, the administration and incoming council, not only as a member of Hawthorne’s Green Team, but as a regular citizen, to try and address some of the concerns we all have in Ward 3 and Hawthorne. When I announced my candidacy, I promised to be an advocate for everyone. Just because the outcome wasn’t what I had hoped it would be, it won’t dissuade me from trying to improve our community. I’m blessed to have had 171 people show their faith in me by voting for and supporting us. I wanted this to be a serious campaign, fun and engaging. I’ve made many friends this year, which I’m proud of and will work to show them why their vote was worthwhile and that we still won! Thank You, All!
The opinions expressed herein are the writer's alone, and do not reflect the opinions of TAPinto.net or anyone who works for TAPinto.net. TAPinto.net is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by the writer. Click here to submit a Letter to the Editor.
Hawthorne Decides: 2019 Council Elections Overview
HAWTHORNE, NJ - Pollsters and political scientists expect a low overall turn-out for the 2019 elections, given it is neither a national mid-term nor presidential election, but nevertheless, the elections on a local level will make very tangible impacts on the communities they serve. In Hawthorne, a spirited race has been in full swing and voters will finally make their decision Tuesday.
When Republican Councilman John Bertollo (Ward 2) announced he would not seek re-election, a race was sparked for his successor. Rayna Laoisa, who serves on the Hawthorne Environmental Commission, was the winner for the Republican nomination, initially challenged by Phil Speulda.
The Democratic ticket in Ward 2 presented one of the more unusual races in town, when Thomas Bushnauskas defeated the Hawthorne Democratic Organization-backed candidate by three votes in the primary. Bushnauskas has run his own campaign, independently of the support of the local party, which is running incumbent Councilman Joseph Wojetcki (Ward 1), Kimberly Maciejewski (Ward 3), and Jennifer D'Angelo (Ward 4) against the Team Goldberg ticket.
Team Goldberg, which has outspent the Democrats by $8,415 according to the latest campaign finance report, is running JoAnn Fitzsimmons (Ward 1), Councilman Garrett Sinning (Ward 3), and Council President Frank Matthews (Ward 4). Laoisa and Sinning both faced primary challenges, the Ward 3 race being contested by Carey Cornett, Jr., until his withdrawal from the race almost immediately after filing.
Ward 3 is a battleground of particular interest as it is the only ward to give voters three choices instead of two. Craig Cayetano of the Green Party has been running his own campaign, squaring off against an incumbent Republican as well as a Democrat challenger.
On Tuesday, the polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Voters unsure of where to go can click here to find their polling location.
Cayetano For Council Announces 1,700+ Doors Touched in Ward 3 & Campaign Endorsements!
Mission accomplished! The Cayetano For Council Campaign led a weekend full of activity in Ward 3. They held a Coffee With Craig Q&A at Andy’s Corner on Saturday morning then spent much of the day with volunteers canvassing throughout Ward 3. On Sunday, they finished their goal of going back into Ward 3 one more time and touching over 1,700+ doors!
Craig Cayetano said “I’m so proud of our volunteers! Our message is being embraced in town and our Green Vision & Future plan is being received by all Hawthorne residents, not just those in Ward 3. Our volunteers have been a mix of people across political lines, Independents and of course our local Hawthorne residents, not paid canvassers. This is what grassroots democracy looks like and people power is what has propelled this campaign. With a win on Tuesday I look forward to working with the current administration and the incoming council!”
In these last two days the campaign will continue its work to get out the vote. Communication has always been key with the campaign and they are making time to be accessible in person or via social media. This builds upon Craig Cayetano’s principles of being locally involved, in the Hawthorne Green Team and especially by attending town council meetings. They have had a full website: Cayetano4Council.com, Facebook page: Cayetano4Council, Twitter: Green4Ward3 and Instagram: Cayetano4Council since their original campaign announcement.
As an Independent Green Party candidate for Hawthorne Ward 3, it can be hard to get traditional, organizational or party backed endorsements. This makes the campaign most appreciative of the Green Party US LatinX Caucus endorsement along with Green Party NJ & US support this year. Also, the Good Government Coalition Of New Jersey (GGCNJ) showed support online, ranking the campaign with three badges!
This is a link to their ranking of the campaign.
https://www.ggcnj.org/craig-cayetano2019/
They have received multiple personal endorsements of support for their campaign, as posts or videos on Facebook, from former candidates for political office in New Jersey across party lines, current office holders, those currently running for office and Hawthorne residents.
Elisabeth Dello Buono, Hawthorne Ward 3 resident was quoted saying, “Acting local and thinking global is a critical part of our future. Not only does Craig have the best interest of everyone on a societal level he’s also fighting for better environmental conditions on a realistic local scale. We can’t afford to wait. Change begins with us now. Leaders like Craig have to be our future.”
The Campaign wants the focus to be on the issues and concerns for those in Ward 3. Every voice matters to them…As advocates for Hawthorne, the campaign seeks to connect the community and work towards the future every resident deserves! Vote “Person Over Party” on November 5th. Vote Row C for Craig in Ward 3! The campaign thanks you!
Hawthorne Council Races: A Campaign Finance Snapshot
HAWTHORNE, NJ - As Election Day draws nearer--that's Tuesday, November 5--TAPinto Hawthorne offers this glimpse at the campaigns in town from a financial perspective. The information below was obtained through the 29-day filing reports, which indicate the reported activities up to early October. There is another filing date for campaign committees which the campaigns should have submitted their information to with the most recent activity that will be reported on later.
The Hawthorne Republican slate, consisting of JoAnn Fitzsimmons (Ward 1), Rayna Laiosa (Ward 2), Garrett Sinning (Ward 3), and Frank Matthews (Ward 4), began the campaign with $10,000, the total of which was contributed by Mayor Richard Goldberg's campaign account. According to the 29-day report, the candidates spent around $9,500: $4,500 on regular lawn signs, $3,300 on large signs, and $1,500 on campaign literature. As of October 7, when ELEC received their report, the committee had $585 cash-on-hand remaining.
Mayor Goldberg, who is not on the ballot this year, has over $17,000 cash-on-hand in his own re-election campaign account towards his next campaign, should he pursue re-election in 2021, as of his latest September filing. That figure doesn't yet include the $10,000 contribution to the Republican council slate.
The Hawthorne Democratic Organization-backed council slate, which excludes the Ward 2 Democrat candidate, consisting of Joseph Wojtecki (Ward 1), Kimberly Maciejewski (Ward 3), and Jennifer D'Angelo (Ward 4), has raised slightly over $7,000, with $5,000 coming from the Hawthorne Democratic Organization. The committee's biggest expenditure, according to the 29-day pre-report, is $1,100 for tote bags and promotional items, and spent a total of slightly over $2,700. As of October 9, when ELEC received their filing, the four-candidate committee has $4,338 cash-on-hand.
The Hawthorne Democratic Organization started the year with nearly $6,000, and currently has $673 cash-on-hand, after contributing $5,000 to the candidate committee and several other expenditures and contributions, according to the latest report filed in October. The Hawthorne Republican County Committee began the year with $1,866 and currently has cash-on-hand of $1,766, according to the latest report filed in back in July.
A Fair and Welcoming Hawthorne
I am appalled that Hawthorne might have a “completely repugnant and backward unofficial policy” as Kimberly Maciejewski mentioned in her letter to the editor, towards handling marriage requests. Hawthorne must be a welcoming community to all that already live here and those considering to settle down in our town. The Green Party platform has fought for the rights of everyone and for inclusiveness since state Green Parties started organizing in the mid 1980s. As a Green, I support civil rights for all LGBTQIA people. I want a truly stigma-free Hawthorne for everyone.
Our last gubernatorial candidate, Seth Kaper-Dale, was one of the first pastors to perform LGBT ceremonies in this state. I was proud to volunteer, campaign for and call him a friend. While this issue needs to be discussed further, I do think that for the last weeks of the campaign, we as citizens, need to focus on who has the best platform and policy for Ward 3 and the town as a whole. We need someone to build bridges within the community. I’m proud of the work done on the Hawthorne Green Team and know I can continue this work on a larger scale to benefit all of us.
As a Green, I believe in our approach. As we go door to door we see support from Democrats, Republicans and Independents this election. I am listening to people and business owners. I am willing to dedicate the time needed to pursue a bold vision and plan for Hawthorne. Will we have the same level of commitment by staying with the status quo?
I, as perhaps many in town, were unaware and only recently learned that the mayor has elected to not perform civil ceremonies for marriages. I feel strongly that the issue should be brought up at a town council meeting and made a part of the public comment.
As a Green, an advocate and activist for the people, I’ve been at numerous council meetings across the state for various other issues. I would be happy to bring this issue up to the mayor directly at the next council meeting, win or lose, on November 5th and have it addressed publicly. There needs to be a formal response and Mayor Goldberg, who is not personally on the ballot this November, should be afforded the opportunity to formally respond.
5. Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
In keeping with the Green Key Values of diversity, social justice and feminism, we support full legal and political equality for all persons regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity, characteristics, and expression.
The Green Party recognizes the full civil rights of sexual and gender minorities. The existing civil rights act prohibits discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, and disability. We will work to add sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression to the existing civil rights act…
Link to full Social Justice Key Value: https://www.gp.org/social_justice_2016/#sjCivilRights
Thank you all!
Craig Cayetano – “I Have Bold Ideas & Offer a Clear Vision for the Future of Hawthorne,” Said Green Party Candidate for Council in Hawthorne Ward 3
Craig Cayetano – “I Have Bold Ideas & Offer a Clear Vision for the Future of Hawthorne,”Said Green Party Candidate for Council in Hawthorne Ward 3
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10th, 2019
My name is Craig Cayetano and I am running for Town Council in Hawthorne’s Ward 3 to be an advocate for everyone. I’m a lifelong Northern New Jersey resident. I grew up in Bergenfield, but reside in Hawthorne for over 15 years now. I’m second generation Peruvian on my father’s side and Italian/German descent on my mother’s. Both my mother and grandmother were hardworking waitresses; living paycheck to paycheck.
For that reason, I have always believed in, and worked for, fairness and inclusion of all people and political parties in the United States. I study all sides of the political spectrum to develop a common sense or “real world” approach to issues. I have seen the control, influence and harm the two-party system has inflicted on the electoral process. I respect and understand those who still vote in every election, but remain Independent or Unaffiliated. Working on a variety of campaigns in New Jersey over the last few years, I was able to converse about the day-to-day issues that matter most to people. I believe in and strive to build the Green Party because it is focused on the concerns of the community, environment, small local businesses, and labor and not beholden to any corporate interests or donors. I’m now one of our state’s National Delegates and also a State Co-Chair. I try to lead by example and have been a listener, activist, and organizer. I will be a strong advocate for the people here in Ward 3 and for all of Hawthorne.
I have been a proud member of the Hawthorne Green Team for the past year. We have done wonderful work introducing styrofoam collection drives, showcasing electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles at our events and bringing EV charging station infrastructure conversations to the forefront.
Yet, there is even more that needs to be done. That is why I decided to step up and run a campaign that encompasses numerous bold ideas & offers a clear vision for the future of Hawthorne.
I am making this a fun and informative campaign from our Tag N’ Sip: environmental themed art with the support of Strange Moon Creative Shop and Fat Moe’s, and our Voter Registration Drive/Meet & Greet at Billy’s Midway with El Gallo. I’m hosting weekly recap meetings and breakfast at Andy’s Corner on Sundays. I have had a fully active and engaging campaign on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and a full-fledged website Cayetano4council.com since May.
I’m proud of the connections made with our local small businesses, the townspeople and the Board of Education (BOE). I’ve been the only candidate in Ward 3 that fully supported the referendum on social media and door to door since early this year. I believe that there needs to be a strong bond between the BOE and Town Council. I also advocate for a stronger bond with the BOE and the Environmental Commission in regards to the Sustainable Jersey Schools program. You will see this in greater detail in my full “Green Vision & Future For Hawthorne” platform.
Today is the public release of my platform online which is formulated under these main values, central to the Green Party vision: Grassroots Democracy, Ecological Wisdom, Community Based Economics and Future Focus & Sustainability. I’m committed to bringing bold and original ideas to Hawthorne that can be accomplished. Here is the link to this “Green Vision & Future” plan.
https://www.cayetano4council.com/green_vision_future
For the few that are long term, I’m here to fight and get them started. As I knock on doors and see how people love our campaign message, it really makes me proud when they say, “We’ll be voting for the person, not the party on November 5th.” Can we turn Hawthorne Green? I know we can with your support and vote! Thank you!
Cayetano For Council, Hawthorne Ward 3 Gaining Momentum: Hawthorne Day, Gaming With The Greens, Green Wave Telethon & Canvassing!
The weather was perfect for a full day of talking to constituents during Hawthorne Day on September 22nd. Craig Cayetano said “it was great to connect with people across the town at this massive event. Our message was well received.”
A few days later on September 27th, Cayetano and the Passaic County Greens held its fun, free and nostalgic event: “Gaming With The Greens.” This was part of a voter registration drive, plus a Meet & Greet with free gaming at Billy’s Midway at 312 Lafayette Ave, in Hawthorne NJ. Attendees were treated to empanadas, a taco station and light refreshments courtesy of El Gallo. Cayetano unveiled his “Green Vision & Future for Hawthorne” platform to propel Hawthorne ahead for the next decade. It’s a bold vision which will be published for media on cayetano4council.com, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Madelyn Hoffman, Green Party 2020 Senate Candidate and Cayetano’s Campaign Manager said, “These events have been ways for Hawthorne residents to meet this dynamic candidate, who’s running with a political party that’s gaining popularity throughout the world. Greens are concerned about global climate change, ecological sustainability, commitment to local businesses and an economy based on peace, not war.”
On Thursday night, October 3rd, Craig Cayetano will discuss elements of his platform with a national audience via Green Party US’s 2nd Annual Green Wave Telethon. The Telethon will raise awareness and money for Green Party candidates across the country. “We are proud to be invited to appear on the Green Party US Facebook page for this livestream!” said Ward 3 Candidate Cayetano. The livestream event will take place on Facebook from 9pm to 10pm EST. You can login at this link on Thursday night.
https://www.facebook.com/GreenPartyUS/videos/392743768078555/
Finally, the campaign will continue its “Breakfast & Canvassing” each Sunday at 10am until election day, meeting first at Andy’s Corner on 438 Lafayette Ave, in Hawthorne. “The campaign’s goal is to knock on over 700 doors in Ward 3,” said manager Hoffman.“Canvassing is the best way to find out what Hawthorne residents really want and Craig has been listening. Lawn signs are on the way and volunteers are always welcomed! I urge you to become part of this community-building effort!”
Gaming With The Greens & Craig Cayetano for Council: Hawthorne Voter Registration Drive/Meet&Greet
Gaming With The Greens & Craig Cayetano for Council: Hawthorne Voter Registration Drive/Meet&Greet
September 27th, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13th 2019
The Cayetano For Council Campaign For Ward 3 Hawthorne along with The Green Party of Passaic County have been working with local small businesses to help increase their visibility in our community.
This is the next big event for the campaign, which is collaborating with Billy’s Midway Arcade, 312 Lafayette Ave in Hawthorne, New Jersey. A Voter Registration Drive for those newly of age, those that aren’t aware if they are registered and a campaign meet & greet for the rest. The event is scheduled for Friday, September 27th, 7pm until 9pm. It offers Hawthorne residents a chance to have a unique, fun and free night out.
Craig Cayetano said, “This is a golden opportunity to have conversations about important local issues, to register new voters and partake in this awesome arcade for up to two hours!” There will be light food and refreshments provided by another prominent local business, El Gallo, for those who attend.
This evening promises to be a lot of fun and give attendees more information on whom to support in the November election. Cayetano: “I’m in this campaign to be an advocate for everyone. I value grassroots democracy and want to show our youth the importance of registering to vote. They can have a say in electing candidates on a local level committed to protecting the environment, not beholden to corporate or special interests and willing to work towards creating sustainable infrastructure.”
Tickets are free and going fast due to occupancy limits. Donations will be kindly accepted at the door. You must pre-register online with Eventbrite or Facebook below. Up to one set per person. October 15th is the last day to register in New Jersey for Election Day on November 5th.
2019 Green Wave Telethon
Surf’s up! The Green Party of the United States is preparing for its 2nd annual "Green Wave Telethon," a fundraising effort that is scheduled for broadcast on Facebook on Thursday, October 3rd from 9:00 – 10:00 pm ET!
The telethon will feature live candidate interviews and recorded videos from dozens of Green Party candidates and supporters. The two-hour long event will be hosted by Erin Fox and Craig Seeman. Guests will include the following 2019 Green Party candidates:
- Monica James, running for District #4 Muncie City Council, Indiana
- Craig Cayetano, running for Hawthorne Council Ward 3, New Jersey
- Kat Bruner-James, running for Ferndale City Council, Michigan
- Dave Sutliff-Atias, running for Rochester City Council
Also appearing are Green Party Steering Committee members Hillary Kane and Trahern Crews.
The Coordinated Campaign Committee (CCC), along with the Media Committee, is hosting the 2019 Green Wave Telethon to celebrate all of the awesome campaigns happening this year and to raise funds that the CCC can distribute to Green candidates.
RSVP at https://www.facebook.com/events/407109326670332/
Zero Hour in Bergen: The Rutherford Labor Day Street Festival
The Rutherford Labor Day Street Festival has been a tradition drawing in tens of thousands of visitors for some time now, and anyone who wants to make some face time does well to make an appearance there—even in the midst of intermittent rainstorms, as was the case Monday. Enter, then, some of Bergen’s political and would-be political figures.
Outside his campaign headquarters was a booth for Democrat Frank Nunziato, a councilman seeking to succeed outgoing Mayor Joseph DeSalvo, Jr. Nunziato defeated Murphy-ally Stephanie McGowan and is running on a ticket with incumbent Councilmen Mark Goldsack and Thomas Mullahey. Democratic campaigners marched with signs for Nunziato’s team along with incumbent Assemblymen Clinton Calabrese and Gary Schaer; plus Freeholders Germaine Ortiz, Thomas Sullivan, and Mary Amoroso. The political representation extended to the federal level as well: Congressman Bill Pascrell and Congressman Josh Gottheimer made appearances and Bernie Sanders campaigners had set up a booth. The Green Party of New Jersey was represented as well with Madelyn Hoffman—challenging Cory Booker for US Senate—and Craig Cayetano of Hawthorne (in Passaic), seeking his town’s 3rd ward council seat.
But heavily represented though it was, the political left was not the only show in town. Republicans Khaldoun Androwis and Foster Lowe ducked out of the rain to talk a moment while red signs were carried for Rutherford council candidates Ryan Weist, State Committeeman of the Bergen County Young Republicans, and businesswoman Kristina Gagliardi-Wilson.
Lowe is a property managing agent who ran for Assemblyman in district 36 with Rosina Romano against Democratic incumbents Gary Schaer and Marlene Caride in 2013. He was on the streets with financial executive and Wallington councilman Khaldoun Androwis in his second term. Androwis and Lowe face a tough challenge against the incumbents. Androwis cited Murphy’s troubles. “I think for us we have some problems with Murphy and the EDA, Schools Development. He stated he wants to make New Jersey a sanctuary state, we aren’t too pleased. Taxes are always an issue.” Lowe believes that to reduce the tax burden, an unpopular but-oft-cited option may have to be considered: shared services. “I’m a home rule guy, but we may have to do something in the future. Property taxes are out of control. I think that’s what may have to be done. People love their towns, we all do, but one of these days we may have to back off.”
Governor Phil Murphy championed adult-use marijuana, meeting with no success in the legislature. Androwis and Lowe are only half-convinced. “I don’t think we need recreational,” Androwis said, explaining that he made a motion to pass an ordinance in Wallington that no marijuana businesses could open in the borough if legalized statewide. On medical, the two have no problem, but recreational, they say, presents a danger.
Foster said it had been years since LD36 had a Republican seat but the challengers were not daunted. Paul DiGaetano was the last man to have a red Assembly seat, back in 2005, sharing the assembly slot with Democrat Frederick Scalera. “I don’t vote by party line,” Androwis said, “I vote for what is best.” He even had some kind words for Pascrell, saying he is “a good guy” but declined to say he would go so far as to vote for him. “People gave us a chance to make sure we can do something better and more efficient for the district. You need some new blood in there, some new ideas.”
Hoffman was another challenger on the ground in rainy Rutherford, fielding a third party campaign
against US Senator Cory Booker who is also seeking the Oval Office. “I got 25,000 votes last time, the most of any third party candidate. Booker and Menendez both have specific issues, they’re not the same, but the broader national issues are the same,” she said. “Booker has water issues with lead contamination, with education, pharma…”
On Bernie next door, “It’s not competition, they’re going for Bernie in the primaries, then after that, all bets are off. Some of them are Greens.”
“A lot of third parties are going to be under a lot of pressure to step aside, there’s a sentiment that ‘any blue will do’, I ran into that last time when I ran for US senate, but it’s going to be stronger this time. My answer is that I can’t do that, I can’t do that in good conscience. If we get Joe Biden, what have we changed? It’s kind of scary that people are willing to accept ‘any Democrat’.”
Next to Hoffman’s booth was a stand for Bernie Sanders where campaigners were handing out literature. “I can understand where Bernie Sanders offers, at least in rhetoric, something different,” Hoffman said, “but in reality will the Democrats ever give us something different? We keep moving to the right—it’s the Green Party last year that got Democrats talking about a Green New Deal, one of the first issues they took up—they watered it down, but they were talking about it. That’s why I feel the Greens are as important as ever. In a democracy there should always be room for a third party and let the voters decide.”
Hoffman has been involved with the Green Party for over two decades. She ran with Ralph Nader in 1996 as his vice presidential running mate and ran for NJ governor in 1997. “‘If you keep voting for the lesser of two evils’,” she said, quoting Nader, “‘you keep getting evil and it keeps getting lesser and lesser’. Case in point, Donald Trump. That model has failed. That’s why I feel it’s important to continue to run. People can say what they like but we can’t step aside. On the presidential election, I’m going to vote Green, even if Bernie Sanders wins.”
While Hoffman aspires to the US Senate, the borough of Hawthorne is the Green Party’s local-level battleground right now, with Craig Cayetano challenging Republican long-time incumbent Gary Sinning, the 3rd ward councilman.
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Passaic County Green Party & Strange Moon Creative Shop in Hawthorne Call for Donations Paterson Fire Victims
It was devastating to see the fire at the Straight and Narrow in Paterson, New Jersey, on Saturday, August 23 but relieved to learn that there were no casualties. Straight and Narrow has been a vital asset to this community for more than 50 years. The building was most recently home to 50 men who graduated from drug and alcohol recovery programs, transitioning back into society. They lost their personal belongings and have been permanently displaced. About 200 residents are affected by power outages due to the fire. The Passaic County Greens, together with Strange Moon Creative Shop, are calling on our local community to help with donations. A partner agency, Oasis- A Haven for Women and Children, 59 Mill Street, Paterson, posted on Facebook needed items: already worn men’s clothing, shoes, sneakers, socks, new underwear, soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, combs, razors, shave gel and other toiletries.
If you are able to help Strange Moon Creative Shop is located at 728 Lafayette Ave, Hawthorne NJ 07506. Their hours are Monday through Friday 10am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12pm. We thank you in advance for your assistance!
Cayetano For Council Collaborates With Local Businesses For Educational, Creative and Fun Campaign Event
On August 16th, Craig Cayetano, Green Party Candidate for Hawthorne Town Council Ward 3, co-hosted a campaign event with Strange Moon Creative Shop. “Tag The Town Green” welcomed townsfolk, friends, supporters, Cayetano’s team and the Passaic County Green Party to experience a wonderful artistic space in Hawthorne, NJ. The environmentally themed event was a way to introduce people to certain issues going on locally and nationally today: Fighting for Peace, Utilizing Ecological Wisdom and Mandating Water Protection.
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Though this was the first public event of Craig Cayetano’s campaign, he has been active in the community, attending numerous events and going door-to-door. Focusing on the value of small business, improving infrastructure, preserving the environment and grassroots democracy, Craig refuses to take any corporate, developer or fossil fuel industry money.
The campaign is planning another event shortly and is asking those in our community to reach out with your top concerns or issues not only in Ward 3, but in the town as well.
Facebook: Cayetano4council
Instagram: @cayetano4council
Twitter: @Green4Ward3
Website: www.cayetano4council
Photographs courtesy of Craig Cayetano (photo of Strange Moon Creative Shop and participants holding completed pictures) and Brian Johnson (@mrbrianphotography on Instagram) photo of Barry Bendar, new Treasurer-elect of GPNJ and Sam Nygard explaining the process of creating a completed picture
Meet Craig Cayetano, Green Candidate for Hawthorne Council Ward 3 at Strange Moon Creative Shop’s Tag N’ Sip: The Town Green
Strange Moon Creative Shop is hosting their second Tag N’ Sip Night this time with an environmental-themed event. Located at 728 Lafayette Avenue in Hawthorne, New Jersey.
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This is the first public event of Craig Cayetano’s campaign for the Hawthorne Town Council Ward 3 race. “I’m so glad we have a creative space and amazing venue like Strange Moon Creative Shop here in town. I’ve been speaking about how our community needs to embrace and support their local small businesses. Hawthorne can appeal to people in many different ways if we open ourselves to it. Come on out, make a painting, sip adult beverages and meet the candidate!”
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Candidate Craig Cayetano Signs Pledge, Says "No Fossil Fuels Money" for Campaign
HAWTHORNE, NJ - Craig Cayetano has put down in writing that he and his campaign will refuse to accept any money from sources "whose primary business is the extraction, processing, distribution of sale of oil, gas and coal" according to a statement released Monday. Cayetano is running as the Green Party candidate and is seeking to serve as Ward 3 Councilman in Hawthorne, running against incumbent Republican Gary Sinning and Democrat challenger Kimberly Maciejewski.
"I pledge to the people of Hawthorne that, as a Green Party candidate for Hawthorne Town Council, I will take no money from the fossil fuels industry," Cayetano said in a statement. "The original pledge sets a limit of $200 per candidate who signs it, but I’ve gone further than that. I pledge to accept no money at all from the fossil fuels industry. Since I am independent of the two mainstream political parties, you can be confident that I will not compromise when it comes to protecting the environment. I will be beholden to no company with a special interest in making profits from the sale or use of fossil fuels, one of the primary contributors to global warming and climate change."
The Green Party is particularly concerned with environmental causes, and Cayetano's campaign asserted that the pledge represented his desire to protect future generations. "I am inspired by youth locally and across this country taking action regarding the current climate chaos happening. We need to move Hawthorne, New Jersey and the U.S. away from its dependence on fossil fuels for energy use."
Cayetano made his announcement standing outside of Hawthorne High School, a video of which can been seen here.
Craig Cayetano Enters Race for Hawthorne Ward 3 Council as Green Party Candidate
HAWTHORNE, NJ - Hawthorne resident Craig Cayetano announced to TAPinto Hawthorne that he has filed at the Passaic County Administration Building to run as a Green Party candidate for the Ward 3 Council. The statement reads below.
Hello everyone! I’m so excited to announce that I have filed to run for Hawthorne Town Council in Ward 3. I have been a resident of Hawthorne for almost 15 years. Last fall I decided to join the Hawthorne Green Team and help the town in any way possible. I’m very proud of my continued work there and proud of the work that the Environmental Commission has done as well. But I still feel compelled to do more for my ward and town.
I decided to run as a Green Party Candidate, independent of the two main political parties and will focus on people, planet and peace over profit.
- People - I want to hear from each person in my ward. There are many homeowners and renters with issues that feel they have no advocate for them. Our community is constantly evolving and we need to work together to forge relationships with each and every one of us.
- Planet - I’ve been environmentally conscious since my teens and am constantly involved with county and state activism on the behalf of protecting the resources here in New Jersey. There are still areas of unresolved environmental impact in town that truly need to be addressed.
- Peace - As a Green I will work to be a bridge between the other major parties. Greens can work with others objectively and can put “party” aside for the best of the community. My sole focus is to be an advocate for my ward and elevate the voices here that may not ordinarily be heard.
- Over Profit - As a Green who is Independent of the other two parties I don’t have to “toe a party line”. I don’t have to waver on what I feel compelled to support. I also won’t be beholding to big corporate donors, developers or special interests.
I am grateful for the response I’ve had already from my community and look forward to doing my best to win this fall. I truly want to be an advocate for everyone. Thank-you all!
Madelyn Hoffman - Campaign Manager
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Craig Cayetano - @cayetano4council
Twitter: @cayetano4council
Instagram: @cayetano4council
Cayetano will face off against incumbent Councilman Garret Sinning and Democrat Kimberly Maciejewski in the November general election.
