Hi, Ed, I’m calling about all the housing rehabilitation going on in Trenton and the zero-down loans they are offering residents. I just want to warn your readers, please do not buy any of these homes. I live on Bellevue Avenue and I was one of the first people to buy one of these rehabbed homes. The neighborhoods are going down the toilet along with the homes, which are built poorly. And you can’t get any answers or anyone to fix things that are wrong with the home. I’ve been in this home only three years, and I have to tell you that I and two neighbors have already had roofs that leaks and no one’s come out to fix them. The school system is not getting any better. If you try to leave, you cannot because of the market, and you have to pay back the money the state gave you to move into these homes. Although the money may seem free, you will be living in a jail within your own home. Do not purchase any of these homes, especially in the area of Bellevue, Calhoun, or the ones they are building on Spring Street and Fountain Avenue unless you want to be locked in your home and your children can’t even go outside to play.

Trouble in Paradise

The neighborhood won’t change overnight. Try to stay positive.—Ed. Note

Dear Ed, can you please explain to me how the city of Trenton can afford to give the mayor’s cabinet a 3.5 percent raise across the board when the city is bankrupt? His cabinet’s contract wasn’t even up and there was no arbitration, however when it comes to the police officers’ contract, the city is refusing to settle. The Trenton police have been working without a contract for three years, and now an arbitrator had to get involved and the city is pulling the old “we are broke” and can’t afford to give the cops raises. The money for their raises was put into escrow years ago; the money is there, so pay these guys already! And the citizens wonder why the cops are so disgruntled and don’t want to do anything. Why does the city of Trenton treat its cops so unfairly, making them go to court for every penny and then appealing each decision for stall tactics?

Negotiator

This is one city that can’t run without its cops. —Ed. Note

Ed, about L.A. Parker’s recent article about convicted illegal Pretzintzin-Suchi, criminals should serve prison terms. No one argues that. However, convicted illegals should be sent back to their country of origin. Their sentences should be life with no pay, no free health benefits, no free educational opportunities, no three square meals a day, or anything else they get at the taxpayers’ expense in the United States. Since the recent episode where the illegal janitor’s sentencing was reduced as a result of plea bargaining with the prosecutor’s office, time to be served was not enough. A more effective sentence would be to return him home and let him deal with his fellow countrymen. Gov. Corzine, why not step up and put New Jersey in the limelight and begin sending convicted illegals home? We’d be glad for the monetary savings and happy to buy the one-way tickets.

Go Home

Jersey, The Deportation State. Has a nice ring to it. —Ed. Note

Ed, I wanted to tell you why living in Trenton is great — because it borders Pennsylvania. I recently refurbished my house and bought over $10,000 worth of furniture and appliances. Since the sales tax in Pennsylvania is 6 percent instead of New Jersey’s 7 percent, I saved some money. I also drive right over the bridge and buy my tobacco products in Pennsylvania because they are much cheaper. I would like to thank Gov. Corzine, and I am sure Pennsylvania is thanking you for making it impossible for businesses in New Jersey. Who said living in Trenton was so bad?

On the Border

You could have paid half taxes in one of New Jersey’s Urban Enterprise Zones. —Ed. Note

Ed, I’m replying to “the other side,” who complained about Hamilton Township cops working as crossing guards. They are sent when the assigned school crossing guard calls in sick or just doesn’t show up. Usually, it’s only a half-hour job, but someone must be there to cross the kids. I’m not a cop, I just listen to the police scanner, and there are calls every day for crossing guard duty at one or more of Hamilton’s schools.

Radio Man

Thanks for clearing that up. Keep your ears pealed. —Ed. Note

Ed, in light of the voter registration fraud by the ACORN organization, I think it’s time for a nationwide ID so that everyone going to vote at the polls can prove who they are.

Who’s Who

What’s an election without a little fraud? —Ed. Note

Hi, I’m a retired captain from the Mercer County Corrections Center, and I understand that officers are going to be making over $180,000 a year with overtime. That’s ridiculous. What’s Brian Hughes doing about this? The only thing he seems to be doing is raising taxes.

The Captain

Get your old job back.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I lost all of my cards at the Acme store on Route 1, my debit, insurance cards and others. If anyone found them, please leave them at the store. I checked and nobody has turned them in. I’m leaving my name and phone number for you, Ed.

My Stuff

Cancel your debit and credit cards in the meantime.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m a student at Mercer County Community College and I don’t have a lot of money to repair my computer. Is there anyone out there who knows where I can get a virus wiped off my computer for a reasonable fee?

I.T.

Look on one of the bulletin boards at school. There’s gotta be some techie kid making extra money with his computer prowess. —Ed. Note

Ed, tell your readers they need to shop around for their medications to save money. I was given a prescription for a fungus medication called Lamisil. My drug plan at work doesn’t cover fungus medication. Since I have to pay, I called two different pharmacies for prices. One said Lamisil would cost $1,200 for 90 pills. They offered to sell me 30 pills (250 mg.) of the generic version Terbinafine for $71 (or $213 for 90 pills). The second pharmacy told me they sell the exact same generic medication and would give me 90 pills for $10 versus $213, so I filled the presciption with them.

Frugal Pill

PopperShop around, people. No one’s looking out for you but you.—Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, my congratulations to Trentonian photographer Jackie Shear for taking a very nice picture of smiling Touchdown Club honorees. It’s nice to see the kids smiling for once.

Touchdown

CelebrationOur photogs take beautiful shots every day. Check out the new photo galleries at www.trentonian.com. You can even order that photo on a T-shirt, or a coffee mug, or a temporary tattoo — whatever.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, in regard to Joe the Plumber, my last plumbing job cost me $130 an hour, plus $130 an hour for travel time, plus 7 percent tax. So I think Joe the Plumber is doing quite well. I’m a senior citizen.

Plumb

BobThanks for that analysis. —Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, if Obama wins the presidential election, how will he be sworn in? On the Bible or the Koran?

Tiresome

For the millionth time, Obama’s not a Muslim. But for the 500,000th time, even if he were a Muslim that wouldn’t make him a terrorist, or a lesser American, or anything else that would in any way disqualify him from being president of the United States of America. Vote against him for his politics, not based on hate-mongering idiocy. —Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, tell L.A. Parker to lay off all the negative stuff about race, Obama and assassinations. We love Obama, we’re going to vote for him, he’s going to be in the White House, so why does Parker have to talk negatively about assassinations and all that stuff? That’s the furthest thing from people’s minds. If they wanted to get anyone, they’d get Bush. Good luck to Obama. I hope to see him in the White House.

Optimist

Wish you were right. But if you don’t think there’s a radical faction in this nation so uncomfortable with the idea of a black president that it will produce at least one nutjob willing to make an attempt on his life, you might want to supplement your diet of hope with a few spoonfuls of cynicism. —Ed. Note

Ed, nice job by The Trentonian’s editorial board to try to fix the election with the headline “Your vote won’t count due to electronic voting machine.” Any voter who’s concerned about those machines can vote by absentee ballot. Just contact your county clerk in person or on the Web and get an absentee ballot. You can vote when you want. You can wear your Obama T-shirt. You won’t have to wait in line for the Obama supporters to vote in front of you. You won’t have to worry about voting machine security.

Already Voted

It’s a good idea to vote ahead of time if you can. Officials are warning of long lines on Election Day after record registration in New Jersey. Can’t say I follow you on the election-fix allegation, but whatever.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I hope you publish this before the election. I’m a registered Republican, white male, 55 years old, and live in Ewing Township. I’m planning to vote for Barack Obama. Why? After eight years of a man who has been completely inept as president and leading our country, we need a change. I’m making a change by voting for Barack Obama, even though I am a Republican.

Average Guy

Didn’t I hear you call in to NPR the other day? They’re always like, “We’d like to hear this hour from any white Republican males who are voting for Obama.”—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, where was Barack Obama born? I heard he was born in Africa, so how can he run for president? Put that in the paper.

Geographer

He was born in Hawaii. It’s been part of the United States for a long time now.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is about Vince Zarate’s recent editorial concerning the Democratic Assembly trying to change the Constitution to do away with the Electoral College and go by the vote of the people. I understand that’s what most Democrats want, but I think it’s wrong. I think Mr. Merkt, the representative from Morris County, is doing the right thing, and I hope he prevails. It’s just another sleazy trick by the Democrats of New Jersey.

Electoral Knowledge

Wonder what Joe the Plumber thinks about this one. Joe?—Ed. Note

Ed, I just wanted to comment about the post office employees who complained they were told they cannot wear campaign buttons or T-shirts to work. The government has the right to forbid them under the federal Hatch Act, which was passed in 1939 and specifically forbids any type of election apparel or buttons being worn in the workplace by federal employees. It also extends to state employees who have any part of their salaries paid by the federal government.

Un Buttoned

So there.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is about the vehicles with Pennsy plates parked on Martin Luther King Boulevard and what can be done. The police can’t do anything; it’s a state Motor Vehicle Commission issue, and I’m at Motor Vehicles. Six months after living here you do need to make that vehicle registration change. Contact Motor Vehicles, which has inspectors to investigate and see that these people change over to New Jersey tags. Hope this solves your problem.

Commissioner

Get ready for a wave of calls at the Motor Vehicle Commission. Like you needed more tasks to gum up the works.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is a message for the S.O.B. in a pickup truck who hit a black and white cat on Liberty Street on Oct. 17. I just want you to know, if a vet could have saved him, I wouldn’t have cared how much it cost me. But he was hurt too badly, and I had to put him to sleep. I hope you have nightmares for the rest of your life, you bastard.

Claws Out

He’ll be haunted by the Ghost of the Black and White Cat.—Ed. Note

Ed, I spotted a bird in my yard that I’ve never seen before. He had a dark brown head and the rest of his body was black or very dark blue, depending on how you were looking. He had a white stripe on the outer wing and three stripes on the inner wing. He was beautiful. I couldn’t find it in the Audubon book. Maybe your readers know its name?

Bird Watcher

Let’s consult the BackTalk team of ornithologists. Who will be the first to identify this brown-headed blue bird?—Ed. Note

Ed, has anyone found a red Pomeranian dog with a blue har ness? He was lost in the area of Broad and Liberty. He needs his medication. Please return him to 1224 Chestnut Ave., or call (609) 695-3423. Ask for Virginia. Please call me.

Virginia

So sad. Hope you find him.—Ed. Note

Ed, you recently printed an item about our missing dog, a tan female Pomeranian who was stolen from our yard. It seems other neighbors in our area have also had their dogs gone missing too. There seems to be a dognapper in Hamilton.

Pooch Patrol

Don’t let your dogs out of your sight.—Ed. Note

Ed, the balloon guy was actually the Abramowicz brothers. I personally sold balloons with Minzy Abramowicz on the corner of Olden and Brunswick Avenue, right outside the White Castle. I’m 70 years old, and I did this when I was about 15 or 16. So I would think at this time the Abramowicz brothers are gone. But yes, the balloons were great and a lot of fun.

Time Gone By

Thanks for the history. Can anyone out there confirm whether the Abramowicz brothers are, indeed, deceased?—Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, are you serious, the balloon guy? I’m 44 years old and when I was a little girl I remember going to Cadwalader Park, and the balloon man waited for us at the entrance. It was great, then; they had animals in the zoo and rides. It’s a shame it’s down in the dumps now. Mr. Cadwalader must be turning in his grave.

Deflated

Those were the days.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m answering the question about the balloon man who used to stand at the entrance to Trenton’s Cadwalader Park. Are they kidding? Do they know how long ago that was? I hate to say it, but he’s probably not living, because he was old even then.

Pop Your Balloon

You never know. All that balloon inflating can build some strong lungs. He might still be with us.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m replying to “ex-con blues,” the man who complained it’s hard to get a fresh start and find a job after serving time in prison. You could contact The Saints Prison Ministry in Moorestown. They could possibly help you.

God’s Help

So now you have a councilwoman and the Lord pulling for you. You can do it, cons. Keep the faith.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed. Note, this is West Ward Councilwoman Annette Lartigue calling about “ex-con blues,” where the person speaks of not having an opportunity as an ex-offender. I’d like him to reach my office at (609) 989-3147 and leave all his information with my legislative aide at City Council. There are opportunities. However, the reality is, most ex-offenders are going to have to become entrepreneurs in a way that they become fully self-sufficient as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and own their own businesses. And there’s a way to help them get started. The state of New Jersey has not changed the law to the extent that we can provide for ex-offenders, and we have to because they come back to our communities, and we certainly want them to be fully self-supporting.

Annette

OK, cons. It won’t be easy, but it can be done. No more excuses. Call Ms. Lartigue’s office and get yourself pointed in the right direction.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m a woman responding to the addict who needs advice. I’ve been clean and sober for two years off of heroin. The best thing I did was to go to the welfare department and get on the Work First program, and then I went to a methadone clinic called Substance Abuse Initiative (SAI). I had no insurance, and they paid for my methadone for a year. I’ve been clean for two years.

Clean in Plainsboro

Hi, Ed, I’d like to tell the addict seeking help that Catholic Charities at 10 Southard St. in Trenton has a great recovery program called Partners in Recovery. It’s the best program here in Trenton. They will help him through recovery, get him into rehab if it’s needed, and also help him get insurance, Medicaid. The phone number is (609) 396-4557.

Faith Based

Ed, this is for the heroin addict who needs advice. You need to get yourself into New Horizon Treatment Center, the methadone clinic on Perry Street in Trenton. You can also go to welfare, if you do not have a job, and qualify for Work First, which will help you pay for the methadone treatment, or they’ll help you get into rehab, whichever you decide to do.

On the Horizon

Ed, I’m a former heroin addict, I’ve been clean for over three years. When I was using, I was in and out of rehab 11 times. The only thing that ever worked to finally get me clean was the New Horizon Treatment Center on Perry Street in Trenton. I was in treatment for three years. It’s a methadone maintenance program and involves group and individual counseling for just $70 a week. And there are options for people that need help making the payments. Good luck.

Recovered

Ed, I’m responding to the person who needs help for a heroin addition and doesn’t have medical insurance. I strongly suggest that this person should call the New Hope Foundation in Marlboro (Monmouth County). They take anybody. You don’t need insurance. It’s a free 28-day inpatient program. They have a professional detox facility and a state-of-the art program in a brand new building. He can also call the AA Intergroup office in Bordentown to get a ride out there. So, he’ll get a free ride, a free bed and treatment.

Ray of Hope

Ed, this is for the addict who needs advice. If he gets welfare, he can use his Medicaid card to get on many methadone programs in New York City. If he stays on the program two years and gets himself down to 40 milligrams, there’s another drug that will help him become drug-free within a couple of months. I forget the drug’s name, but I’m sure his doctor will know. All the professionals I’ve spoken to recommend a minimum two years of methadone for it to work. Good luck to this young man or young woman.

A Way Out

Hi, Ed, this is Ron J. from New Horizon Treatment Service, speaking to the addict who needs advice. He could come to 132 Perry St. in Trenton. He could enter from the back on Allen Street and get all the help he needs for his heroin addiction. Just come to the trailer.Ready to Help
Hi, Ed, I’m responding to an addict who needs advice. There’s a place on Calhoun Street called the Rescue Mission of Trenton. If he or she goes there, talk to the person in charge, and I’m quite sure they will be glad to help. But this person has to be willing and able to receive that help. I should know because I am a grateful recovering addict.

To the Rescue

Thanks to all the BackTalkers willing to share honest advice on this touchy subject. To all the addicts out there: There are people who care and places that can help.—Ed. Note

Ed, on Sunday, Oct. 12, I believe my dog was stolen out of my front yard at the corner of Bowhill and Elizabeth in Hamilton. She was on the post, and when we came out 10 minutes later she was gone. Her leash and collar were gone. She’s wearing an ID collar with her name and a phone number. We’ve checked the local pounds — nothing. If anyone has any information please call the family at (609) 516-3371. There is a reward. We just want her returned. She means more to us than the money.

Dog Gone

Such a sad story. Will the thief please have a heart and bring the pooch home?—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I’m a 30-year employee at the Hamilton Main Post Office on Route 130. The plant manager here recently told us we can’t wear any election campaign buttons or T-shirts for the presidential election, or we will face suspension. Can he get away with this? He even said if he see’s a bumper sticker he will have our cars towed. There oughta be a law.

Mail Voter

A federal work environment is no place to be speaking your mind.—Ed. Note

Hi, BackTalk, I just read about the hospital incident where the senior citizen patient got hit in the eye with a rolled-up blanket. Well, I know the hospital she/he’s probably talking about, so this is what should happen. Most seniors and others should have a family member give them a tape-recorder that plays all night. Hide it well, and then you can see what goes on at night.

The Wire

Just make sure you hide it well. If the orderlies find it your mom could end up in a Dumpster.—Ed. Note

Ed, I live on Martin Luther King Boulevard. There’s three big vans with Pennsylvania tags that park here every night. They’ve been living here over a year. I called the police station to report this, because they park in front of other people’s homes, when everyone should be able to park in front of their own home. The police asked me what do I want them to do? After six months everyone should have a change of registration or they shouldn’t be able to park in Trenton. If you live out in Pennsylvania, the police would be watching and make you change your tags. Why are they letting these people with Pennsy tags park on my street?

Street Rights

Guess the cops over here don’t have as much time on their hands as they do in Pennsy.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I’m a senior citizen, and I’m tired of people, both kids and adults, riding bikes and skateboards on the pavement. It’s not safe to walk the pavement any more.

Grumpy Gramps

I hear you. But we consulted some skaters on this one to get the other side, and, to a person, they all said “Hey, bra, it’s, like, our pavement, too, man.”—Ed. Note

Hello, Ed, does anyone know what happened to the balloon guy who used to stand at the entrance of Cadawalder Park? He had the neatest balloons, especially the oblong ones, yellow and orange. Just wondering what happened to him. It was so neat.

Blown Up

Balloon guy, where are you?—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I’d like to know if there’s anyone out there who can help us find help for a heroin addiction problem. The person has no insurance. Does anyone know where this person can get help?

Help Wanted

BackTalkers, what’s the best way to kick smack?—Ed. Note

Ed, I want to know why they have that program at City Hall for people coming home from prison, but they don’t help you do nothing. I’m just coming home and I want to know why there are no opportunities for ex-offenders. It’s so hard to get a job when you have a record. Then they always wonder why people sell drugs or go back to selling drugs.

Got Out

Anybody have some opportunities for a stand-up ex-con?—Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, I’m calling to leave a message to “Shirtless” who was seeking blue uniform shirts. Over in the Roebling Market by the new supermarket there’s a store that sells sports clothes, hip-hop clothes, and they had a million blue shirts because I picked up some for my grandson. It’s called BCX Clothing Market.

Market Share

It’s a cool market. Check it out.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, for the person looking for light blue school shirts, the best place is www.landsend.com. They have the long-sleeve and short-sleeve shirts, so she can order them there.

Click Here

A convenient option for anyone who doesn’t have time or a car.—Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, for the woman who wants school uniforms, the store is located in Independence Mall on the same side as Rita’s, Destina Theatre, and A.J. Wright. It sits back from those stores and it’s called Cramer’s Kids. They will definitely have the light blue shirts she needs.

Cramer

Thanks. Loved you on Seinfeld.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is for the #$%** Republican who ripped all the Democratic signs on Saw Mill Road. I got your license plate number so watch your back.

Dem Vigilante

Easy there. If you’re planning an attack, I “hope” you “change” your mind.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I’m a senior citizen and I’d like to tell you about my horror story experience at a Trenton area hospital just last week. I became very cold around 3 a.m. and when I called for help, the lady came in and took the only blanket I had from my bed, balled it up, and threw it back in my face and hit me in the eye. The next morning I told my son, and he went to investigate. They said I was half asleep and hallucinating, yet I had a blue knob over my eye where she threw the blanket at me. It’s getting ridiculous, horror stories not only in the nursing homes but in the big hospitals. I heard a lady screaming all night for help and they came and told her to shut up, she was making too much noise. I climbed out of bed and went to the nursing station and found people asleep. I never saw a supervisor.

Shiner

Yet another horror story. Disturbing stuff.—Ed. Note

Ed, I wonder if you can verify this rumor that in Trenton High they are getting all the students 18 years and older and registering them to vote during school hours. If this is true, if they’re teaching them about politics on school time, it’s no wonder these kids can’t read and write.

Lesson Plan

There’s time in school to ensure literacy and, at election time, promote participation in our democratic republic. As long as no one is influencing the students’ choice, promoting voting is a good thing. And if they can’t read by age 18, we’ve got bigger problems. —Ed. Note

Ed, this is for your readers. People, people, use your turn signals! They are not optional. Use them. I am not a mind reader. Arrrrrrgh.

Pet Peeve

No kidding. It burns, like, half a calorie to use the blinker. Are we that lazy, people?—Ed. Note

Ed, this is for the person who is looking for the best carbonara in Chambersburg. It’s Amarone’s, which is not actually in Chambersburg but off Route 130.

Carbo

Hi, Ed, i read about the person seeking the best carbonara in the ’Burg. I have a restaurant called Napoli’s on 1855 South Broad St. in Trenton. Try it.

Restaurateur

Hey, Ed, for the best carbonara, it’s Spigolo Restaurant on Route 130 behind Harry’s Army and Navy.

Fine Diner

Hey, Ed, Freddie’s in West Trenton has the best carbonara.

Food Critic

BackTalkers know everything about everything, but especially food.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed., as a longtime resident and taxpayer in Crosswicks I need to know why the Crosswicks Fire Company needs to spend almost $700,000 on a ladder fire truck when there are no tall buildings in Crosswicks, and the Bordentown fire companies all have ladder fire trucks and get to fires before Crosswicks does anyway. There are a lot better things that our money can go to. Why should we even have to pay for firemen when all the other places around us, I believe, are all volunteers? After reading the article a couple weeks back about fire companies buying new fire trucks and fire truck manufacturers padding the bills, I wonder who in Crosswicks is putting money in their pocket for buying a ladder fire truck? Who will profit from such a purchase? I, for one, can’t sleep nights anymore because I am terrified with the economy the way it is and $700,000 ladder fire trucks. I’ll have to come out of retirement to keep my house. Please print this Ed. I think people should know what goes on in their small towns.

“Concerned Citizenof Crosswicks”

But those ladder trucks are so cool.— Ed. Note

Ed., I was hospitalized recently and missed my appointment at the Social Security office at 635 South Clinton Ave., in the Roebling building. The appointment notice provides a phone number, so I’ve been calling for the past three days, for up to 50 minutes at a stretch, but no customer service reps answered the phone. They even added music for those 45-minute waits. Ed., can we send a complaint to the director of Social Security that the phones are not being answered? I’m upset.

Complainer

Consider this a very public complaint via BackTalk.— Ed. Note

Hi, Ed., for the person seeking a psychiatrist that accepts Medicare-Medicaid with no co-pay, call the Birmingham Clinic on Brunswick Avenue near Capital Health System-Fuld hospital. Their number is (609) 396-8877. Also try Henry J. Austin on Warren Street or Avenue, they also have counseling there. Good luck.

Shrunk

Ed., for the person who needs a psychiatrist who accepts Medicare and Medicaid, there’s a place on Route 1 north called UMDNJ University Behavioral Health Care Extended Services. Call (732) 235-5790.

Psyched

Hi, Ed., for the woman seeking psychiatric care with Medicare/Medicaid, I have one, AAMH (Association for the Advancement of Mental Health) at 1819 Alexander Road in Princeton. The phone number is (609) 452-2088.

Well Adjusted

Hey, Ed., for the reader who needs a psychiatrist, try Catholic Charities on North Clinton Avenue in Trenton. The psychiatrists there are excellent.

Faith in Medicine

BackTalkers’ advice is gold. I vouch for all of it. — Ed. Note

Hey, where can I get some blue school uniforms for the kids? I’ve been all over. Pants are no problem, but I can’t find the light blue shirts. Someone said there’s a store near Independence Mall but I can’t find it. Can someone please help me?

Shirtless

We’ve run a story before about the district’s preferred places to purchase uniform shirts. But here’s every clothing purveyor’s chance to promote it selection of light blue tops. Call our advertising department. — Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I’m a Mercer County resident. I just found out that Mercer Sheriff Kevin Larkin and County Executive Brian Hughes are cousins. I’ve got a real problem with that. Larkin should drop out of the race and let McSorley win. I don’t like nepotism.

New Sheriff

If the people elect someone, unless all the people are cousins, it’s hard to call that nepotism.— Ed. Note

Ed, what’s the ancestral nationality of Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi? Six of us were watching her speak on TV and we each guessed.

Just Curious

The official word is that Nancy Patricia D’Alesandro Pelosi is Italian-American. She grew up in Baltimore, Md., one of six children and the only daughter of Anunciata and Thomas J. D’Alesandro. Her father was Baltimore’s three-term mayor and one-term congressman. Her mother emmigrated from Italy. But there’s an anti-Semitic Internet-chatter faction that wants to claim that she is, God forbid, a Jew and/or Jew sympathizer. — Ed. Note

Ed, I understand Trenton Mayor Doug Palmer is in Florida campaigning for Obama. I thought Trenton was in a dire financial state. Who’s paying for his trip? Can anyone tell us?

Doug Tracker

Mayor Palmer actually has a sponsor for his campaigning. It’s Gatorade. Get off his back.— Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, Gov. Corzine signed six new laws for workers’ comp to make sure the people get paid and to fine the insurance companies if they don’t follow workers’ comp payments to the letter of the law. One of the companies now in violation does not even have an office mailing address in New Jersey. They’ve never been fined, yet people who work for the state and municipalities who get hurt, they cut off the funds. They’ve never been fined or forced to pay the people who get hurt on the job even with a court order. I’ve waited five years; I know others who waited seven and nine years just to get a court date, and they keep delaying it. Something should be done, unless someone’s getting our money, I mean the politicians, because the people on workers’ comp are not getting it.

Missing Money

Government always has a good reason for its delays. Right?— Ed. Note

Ed, I’m a state Department of Transportation employee at the West Trenton maintenance yard. Our supervisors have been told many times they need to put a “do not enter” sign bigger than 18-by-18 on the Bear Tavern exit ramp from I-95. Four people were killed there over a year ago. We maintenance yard workers see this happen all the time: People attempt to go down the wrong way on that ramp. This also concerns me personally because I use this road every day to come to work.

Right Way

If that sign still isn’t up, can someone get on that? Thanks.— Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I have a very serious question. If you are incarcerated, do you still have to pay child support, or does it stop until you are released? Can anyone give me the answer?

Cash Flow

Child support obligations do not stop for prisoners, but they can ask a judge to modify, reduce or suspend payments.— Ed. Note

Ed, having been a master plumber for more than 40 years, I have some misgivings about the letter sent recently by American Water Resources to customers of the Trenton Water Department. The letter includes a pay schedule for three options for a monthly charge, ranging from $5.50 to $12.50. When I last checked, the homeowner was responsible for sewer and water service lines from home to curb line. If a problem occurred from the curb line to the water main in the street, the municipality was responsible for repairs. I personally have a recently installed water service line in plastic that will probably last 100 years. And it won’t require $8,000 to repair. Is this a new scam for our citizens? Or have new changes been put into place?

The Plumber

Sounds like you have more knowledge of water and pipes than the average ratepayer. Can you figure this out and get back to us?— Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, WJJZ, a jazz radio station, used to be on 97.5. Can you tell me if there’s another station for jazz?

Loyal Listener

Can some groovy BackTalkers out there help this cat find some jazz?— Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, isn’t it about time for The Trentonian to cut out one page of comic strips and add another page of hard news? I’d like to see that happen, more news!

Not Laughing

We’re glad you like the news, but we try to have something for everyone. Some people love those comics. — Ed. Not

Hey, Ed, I just read about closing the Trenton libraries. Why don’t they use the $80 million earmarked to re-do Stacey Park after they tore it apart 50 years ago?

Money Man

The libraries only need a few hundred thousand to keep going. Can’t they find it somewhere?— Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, my brother who lives in Mercer County was just told by his doctor that he has to go on permanent disability. He doesn’t know who to call or where to start. Maybe some of your loyal readers can tell us what to do.

Brother

Start with the Social Security Administration, which sends out disability checks.— Ed. Note

Ed. Please help me if you can. I recently came across a water color painting by Wayne Howell, numbered 104/300 with a title of DR. Doctor. Where can I take the painting to learn more about it, as I have never heard of this artist? Thank you.

Collector

Backtalkers, we need you help on this one. — Ed. Note

Ed, The Trentonian has stooped to the lowest of the low, LA Parker sitting on a toilet, reading a book, with his pants down. C’mon, what are you selling our children today? This is beyond my comprehension. You could have at least had him sitting with his pants up. It’s shameful and disgusting.

A. Ppalled

First of all, L.A. looked good. More importantly, he drew attention to an important issue and got results.— Ed. Note

Ed, please tell your readers that they absolutely cannot go to the polls on Election Day wearing any Obama shirts, pins or hats. It is against the law and will be grounds for the polling officials to turn you away. This is considered campaigning and no one can campaign within 100 feet from the entrance or exit of the polling place. They are banking on us being excited and not being aware of this longstanding law that you can bet will be enforced this year. They are banking that if you are turned away, you will not go home and change your clothes. So your vote will be lost. Please, just don’t wear Obama gear of any sorts to the polls.

Poll Position

Wear your Obama underclothes. Remember Underoos?— Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, it’s Mary from Tender Hearts. I want to thank all of your readers for their help getting parts for my Thunderbird. I should be able to find what I need; I’ve already gotten a few parts. I also want to ask the gentleman who talked to me about the stair glide to please call me at 890-3517 or stop by the shop.

Thunder Mary

Mary, our readers thank you and reward you with parts. — Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, it sounds like Mayor Palmer has his priorities all wrong. The city of Trenton just went and got a million-dollar grant to purchase a communications vehicle for the Trenton Fire Department, yet they can’t keep their libraries open. The county already has a communications vehicle, so why does the city need its own?

Priorities

Let’s prioritize the libraries and figure out the rest later.— Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, in all the publications about the Trenton library situation it has never been pointed out that the mayor’s sister is on the library board. This whole thing smells very fishy. How did they manage to blow through millions of dollars? This money was donated to the library by the good citizens of Trenton, and they frittered it away.

Secrets Revealed

Everyone’s pointing the finger at the “dictator” head of the trustees for preventing them from managing things properly. A convenient excuse for the failure of a team of people.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m wondering why our Sovereign Bank Arena cannot attract any big tours, like Madonna, Tina Turner or Janet Jackson.

Pop Music

Or Beyonce.—Ed. Note

Ed, I read that Bill Opferman committed suicide. I am really upset about that; he was a good friend of mine. Whenever I went to the Hamilton Township meetings, he would always introduce me and say I was the real deal, referring to my Vietnam combat experience because I was wounded on Hamburger Hill on May 11, 1969. Bill was a true friend and I’m going to miss him sorely.

Real Deal

We salute your service and join you in lamenting the loss of Mr. Opferman.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’d like to thank the people who found my pocketbook at the Kmart on Whitehorse Avenue and turned it in to security. I remembered where I left it and returned to the store. If they call you and leave a phone number, I would love to call them and thank them personally.

Pursed

Another tale of goodness in Greater Trenton.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I see someone found sunglasses. I lost a beautiful pair of Gucci glasses, large, oversize and tinted brown. If these are mine, please call me through Ed., I’m leaving him my number.

Polarized

Good taste!—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m responding to the item about “cheap thrills.” Believe me, people who work in institutions like the county jail and workhouse don’t get their jollies by looking at people’s bodies. They do it because those individuals have been known to have things in places you wouldn’t believe, like knives, and drugs. It’s a job; they have to do it. They don’t necessarily enjoy it. I used to be there and I did it and did not enjoy it.

No Jollies

Like it or not, the human body is full of hiding places. Gotta check ’em out.—Ed. Note

Ed, do any of your readers know the nationality of Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi? Six of us were watching her speak on TV, and not one of us knew her ancestry. So we each made a guess. Hope you can give us the answer.

Anthropologist

Why do I feel like this is an inappropriate, loaded question?—Ed. Note

Ed, about concerned parent, what is your problem? You oppose your son having to fill out a medical slip? Don’t you make an appointment to go see a doctor? Your son isn’t at Garden State because he follows the rules, and we’re trying to teach him to follow the rules. The guys at GS are treated with kid gloves, I know because I work there. And why would you believe what he’s telling you?

He is in jail.

Just as an aside, Gov. Christie Whitman privatized medical treatment, so Garden State has nothing to do with your son’s medical treatment. It’s a private organization. So talk to Christie!Final WordOK, so maybe I jumped the gun on the last response.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is for the parent with the kid in custody. The parent should contact the social worker at the facility, and if they get no satisfaction, contact the assistant superintendent at Garden State Youth Correctional Facility. I used to work there, so I know the procedure.

On Guard

It’s interesting how the two helpful comments for this mom came from readers with intimate knowledge of the system. Perhaps there’s something to her complaints?—Ed. Note

Ed, I read about the young lady who called about her son at the Garden State Correctional Facility, where he’s having problems with his medical staff. Tell her to call the Department of Corrections, (609) 633-2506, and ask for the ombudsman’s office. Hopefully they will handle all her problems. I’m an ex-inmate.

Got Out

Finally a BackTalker helps this mom out. —Ed. Note

Ed, I read about this kid in custody. I have three kids in custody — my custody — and she should keep her kids in her custody to better care for them instead of crying to the public. He was taken out of society for a good reason, and she needs to let the state have custody and stop being a whiner. He’s probably go this sickness called “I want to get out.” Let him sit there and suffer the consequences of the deeds that got him in there.

How To Parent

Even we assume you’re right — that better parenting could have helped keep this kid out of trouble — that doesn’t mean a mom shouldn’t be concerned with her child’s treatment. Perhaps it’s a sign she’s not the worst mom after all.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is for the concerned parent who has an inmate at the Garden State Correctional Facility. Isn’t it funny, all of a sudden when they go into a correctional facility, the parents worry about them. My question: Did you pay this much attention to him when he was on the street? If you had, he wouldn’t be in a correctional facility. It’s like we’re responsible for every headache, illness, everything they want. If he hadn’t committed a crime he wouldn’t be there. And if he was out he could go to a doctor. Stop taking our money and making us responsible for everybody in the jails. I for one don’t like it.

No Sympathy

Now that’s the kind of tough love we’re looking for.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m just beside myself. I just found out that my great-grandson, 5 years old, is in school for a week in Bordentown and he’s already come home with paperwork to sell magazines. I don’t think he even knows how to read or write. With all the school taxes we pay, I don’t think they need to sell any magazines.

Great-Grandma

And what percentage of those sales will actually go toward something that benefits your great-grandson? —Ed. Note

Ed, I’d like the thank the person who was kind enough to steal our Garden State Adult Soccer Association banner from the front of our property on Nottingham Way in Hamilton Township. Please return it. If anyone knows who took it, please notify the Hamilton Police Department.

Goal!

What a weird thing to steal. Won’t even look cool in a dorm room.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is why the cost of health care is so high. I just got out of the hospital and had to go to rehab. They took me from Virtua in Mount Holly to rehab, just one block away, and I just got a bill for $700. It took them exactly 30 minutes to make a one-block trip for $700. Why doesn’t our government put a stop to this bull because everything’s getting out of control; that’s why our financial institutions are going broke. It’s time for our government to step in and say no to $700 for one block. It could have been maybe $300 to $350.

Rehabber

Couldn’t they just wheel you over on a gurney? Anyway, it’s a catchy slogan: Say no to $700 for one block. —Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, so Dontay Brannon only got 10 years for killing two gangsters and paralyzing a third? He will be released by the time he is 30. Three gangsters permanently off the streets? Sounds like a good deal for Trenton. Cheaper than having to convict and incarcerate them over and over again. Truly a good deal for Trenton. We should just let him out now and hope he keeps up the good work. Maybe give him a medal or something, and free bullets. I’m so sick of useless gangsters.

Death Wish

Murder is bad. If you don’t believe that, you might as well be a gangster.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m calling about that handicapped parking issue. On Riverside Avenue between Hermitage and South Overbrook, there are nine row houses in succession with handicapped signs. Nine! Do you believe that? It’s all about who you know to get those signs. What a shame for those who really need them and have a hard time getting them.

No Parking

So you’ve been to all nine houses and determined there aren’t handicapped people there?—Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, Mayor Bencivengo’s going after folks who don’t mow their lawns. How about going after people who have blue tarps covering old cars that can’t run up to the local store, and the cars parked on the streets with no license and registration?

Sore Eyes

You don’t find that charming? Guess you didn’t grow up in the country.—Ed. Note

Ed, about those people in the Mercer County Corrections Center forced to wear stained county underwear, the guards and people who work there make the inmates take off their underwear all the way down so they can get their cheap thrills. Half of these guards and county workers should be prisoners, not working there; they’re just as bad as the inmates. They get cheap thrills seeing the women stripped down to nothing. Thanks for letting me vent.

Guarded

Sounds like you’re speaking from experience.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, there’s a pothole in front of the West Trenton police station and bank on South Hermitage Avenue that’s deep enough to hold a funeral and bury someone. It’s been like that for three years. Would somebody please come out and fix it?

Holed Up

Whaddya say, pavers? Got time to prevent a mid-street funeral?—Ed. Note