Ed Note, I would like for Ed Note to help me out here. Who said it’s a privilege to drive in New Jersey? It’s not a privilege, it’s a nightmare. You know what it is, it’s a “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” experience.

Space Driver

Why don’t you make a big mashed-potato sculpture of the Turnpike?—Ed. Note

Ed, I am just reading about the new Ford Crown Victoria that the mayor of Hamilton got. Mayor Palmer has a new Lincoln Towncar. People are saying, well it’s just a normal thing. Well it’s not normal. That is a bunch of garbage. They shouldn’t have anything anymore, especially Palmer, who is out hat-in-hand begging for money and closing the libraries. These guys are supposed to lead by example. They ought to dump these cars and suffer like the rest of us. Times are tough and people are starving.

No Perks

Suffering for all. Sounds like a good policy.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is to the citizen who wrote in saying that the amount of money police make was ludicrous. What is ludicrous is that these people have to put their lives on the line day in and day out. They have to deal with people whose parents can’t keep control of them, people who are drug addicts, robbers and murderers to cover your back so that you can live in this city. My son-in-law was shot two years ago. He received a medal for heroism, but I am sure that his wife and family would rather have him than a piece of metal. I just hope that maybe in your prayers tonight you remember the police who are keeping you safe.

Toughest Job

Everyone should feel for the men and women putting their lives on the line, and for their families who have to wonder each day whether their loved ones will make it home alive. Their duty is priceless when you think about it like that.—Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, in regards to “Cops Cash In.” I wanted to let the caller know that Hamilton and Ewing cops make $106,000 per man per year. Trenton cops make $66,000 per year.

A Broke Cop

Put in an application with Ewing. —Ed. Note

Ed, all cops are good to women, old or young. So don’t say it’s just the cute young girls who get the breaks. I’m 79. I almost hit a cop car broadside last week. He pulled me over and asked me where I was going and if I needed assistance in getting there. I was having a family problem and he was very compassionate. I told him his mother should be proud of him. I hope he has a Happy New Year.

Reckless Granny

That’s a sweet story. But it doesn’t make me feel safe driving on the same roads as you—Ed. Note

Ed, I have been listening to Corzine. Now he is leaning to laying off people in the state because not as many people went for the early retirement deal. They would have had more than enough people if they had stuck to the original plan. Also it would have helped if the stupid state employees’ union would have gone along with it. Here’s an idea, if every employee would take only three days furlough out of one year then they would have enough money to cover the layoffs.

Idea Man

How about it, state workers? Does everybody wanna take one for the team?— Ed. Note

Ed, in reference to Corzine’s saying now he wants to raise taxes. Are you crazy? Things couldn’t get worse. It seems that when you took office, raised taxes and cut rebates people could hardly keep up. If you keep raising taxes the people will all just move over to Pennsylvania. Why don’t you take a cut?

Bye, Bye, N.J.

Are you suggesting he takes a cut of the taxes for himself or he takes a cut in pay? — Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, why is the court acting like this is not a big deal? It is a big deal. This kid who paralyzed this Hamilton girl is stupid enough to post pictures of himself smoking weed and getting high on MySpace. Why isn’t he in jail? I am very scared that he is on the road high, he could hurt me or one of my kids or neighbors.

Driving Scared

Couldn’t have said it better myself. — Ed. Note

Ed, I am outraged about the article about the punk who paralyzed this poor girl and then violated his probation by being caught smoking marijuana three times and driving without a license twice. I can’t imagine the family’s heartbreak and anger with this girl having to remain in a wheelchair. I am so fed up with the judicial system.

Disgusted

One way or another, that dumbass needs to be taught a lesson before he ruins someone else’s life. — Ed. Note

Ed Note, Merry Christmas, this is your buddy. It’s 3 o’clock in the afternoon and I can’t get nowhere because of all these people going across the Calhoun Street Bridge. Why don’t we start charging the people who live in Pennsylvania a city wage tax if they work in Trenton?

Going Nowhere

Heaven knows we could use the revenue. — Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I’m just so happy that I didn’t vote for that guy who is going to be president. I don’t like his first name, his middle name or his last name. They will find out sooner or later that he did something crooked in Chicago. He is a liar like the rest of them in Chicago. He did something unlawful there. I’m just sorry I have to suffer through his presidency.

Nobama

Everyone does something crooked in Chicago. But come on, man. “I don’t like his name”? We’d be glad to entertain your fears about an unproven liberal taking over the White House. It’s just plain sad to listen to you unabashedly wielding ignorance.— Ed. Note

Ed, I have been a landlord in inner city Trenton for more than 25 years. As to the person who called in to object to Bill A1628, which would allow the installation of water meters in each apartment, I have to say I disagree. In my opinion it is a good idea. That way we can bill people for what they use. You don’t understand that many tenants never call us about a leaky toilet or a leaky faucet. I once received a $700 bill for one quarter because nobody notified us of an ongoing problem. Tenants don’t want to spend their money, but they should know they are wasting valuable resources at a time when out environment is suffering with global warming and wasted resources of all kinds. I support Assembly Bill A1628.

Rent is Due

I didn’t realize this bill was about global warming. Anyway, if you’re blaming tenants for not reporting leaks and running toilets, I hope you’re prepared to respond promptly when they do report such things.—Ed. Note

Good morning, Ed. The Iraqis really don’t like dogs, do they? “This is a farewell kiss, you dog.” That’s sad. If they hate George Bush so much I guess they really miss Saddam Hussein.

Puppy Love

I guess they don’t like dogs. Huh, if a guy calls another guy “dog” over here, it’s a term of endearment. As in, “George Bush is my dog. I’d give him the shoes off my feet.”—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I live in the Hightstown Housing Authority. I woke up Saturday morning to see 10 or 15 people going door to door. I asked what was up and found out that the Masons of Hightstown Apollo Lodge go door to door each year handing out gift cards to the senior citizens or people on Social Security. That is really good thing to do. A nice groups of guys, all of ’em, led by Ernie
Thompson.

In the Spirit

Perhaps you should join the Masons.—Ed. Note

Ed, I work in Hamilton and I’ve been pulled over by the cops many times for stupid things like seat belt violations. I was looking out the window the other day and saw a woman go right through a red light. The cops pulled her over and got license and registration paperwork. The woman, really a girl and kinda cute, had her head in her hands crying. Next thing I know they gave her paperwork back but no ticket. What’s going on? What’s up with that? Just because she’s a girl and she cried they let her go. Why are the Hamilton cops so sexist? Is that what my taxes are going for.

Ticketed

The cute-girls-don’t-get-tickets thing is hardly specific to Hamilton. Happens every day the world over. And the tears — that just seals the deal. Did you notice if the cop got her number?—Ed. Note

Ed, I guess a lot of people don’t realize this is not America anymore. We still have the name, but we have been torn apart. We have so many people who live outside the United States who own the United States. We don’t even own our own country anymore. As prices go up and things change we are losing more and more. Most people can’t afford the American dream, a nice picket fence, a home of your own. That is hogwash. Too many people are looking for an apartment they can afford, let alone a $700,000 home, designed for seniors! How much money do they think us grandparents have?

Sad Times

We may be witnessing a modern fall of a great society. — Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, I want to see what your readers think about this. I got an e-mail from my kid’s school. They wanted money for a holiday party. I wrote back and said the money is not coming, My kid does not attend holiday parties, but there will be money available for a Christmas party. My kid doesn’t want to go to a holiday party because she is Christian and doesn’t want to deny the faith. Do other parents feel the same way?

Christian Mother

Is it necessarily “denying the faith” to attend a party not specifically devoted to Christmas? Perhaps your child can remain rooted in her beliefs and still hang out at a silly gathering with cupcakes and music. — Ed. Note

Ed, this is Alice. I just wanted to thank the many people who called and made sure my friend received the help she needed. I had called BackTalk about her need for an exercise bike. People reached out and now she has a lovely exercise bike. Thank you, Ed, and all the people who showed their concern.

Alice

Another happy BackTalk ending.— Ed. Note

Ed, I just got home and was reading Jack Knarr’s article about the time in 1963 when he and his buddies switched checks and bugged out on a restaurant bill. I wonder if he feels any remorse now. He probably forced that waitress to pay his bill. I just wondered if he ever squared it.

Waiter

He never did square it, but the guilt haunts him every day of his life. — Ed. Note

Ed, maybe your BackTalk readers can help. There used to be a bulk drycleaners next to Costco. They are gone now and I can’t find another one in the area.

Dirty Laundry

If anyone can help with anything, it’s BackTalkers.— Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, I’m just wondering how the people in Trenton got their driver’s licenses since they don’t seem to know how to read. There are big signs reading “Handicapped Parking” outside, and we are constantly having to tell people who are illegally parked or double parked to move their cars. They just don’t seem to get the picture.

Hello!

Who says they have licenses?— Ed. Note

Ed, we can thank Mayor Bencivengo for the golden crescent. He has given us a roundabout. I don’t think it was worth $20,000. He could have spent the money somewhere else. Now he is talking about low-income housing. How about putting that near the Transit Village area. The pipelines are already in, the bus system is there, as well as the trains, and you wouldn’t have to rip up more farmland.

Benci’s Advisor

Poor Benci. All he did was build some cool circular traffic thingies and all he gets is grief. — Ed. Note

Ed, what happened to the Santa Claus and decorations at the Slackwood Fire House Engine 21? As long as I have lived in Lawrence the firehouse was always decorated for Christmas and Santa would go out on the fire truck and give candy to the kids. It looks like Scrooge lives there now.

Humbug

I don’t know. Maybe the firefighters got busy fighting fires or something. — Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, about “Crushed Contestant.” The mother was so concerned about her daughter losing the Little Miss New Jersey contest. I think it’s the mother that wants to win. This child is 7 years old, let her be a child. No child should go backstage and vomit. These outfits should be outlawed, children should not be enrolled in beauty contests. I think of Jon Benet Ramsey. The mom should get a life, let your child be a child and play with toys.

Kiddie Korner

My harsh response to that mother, in hindsight (wait a minute, I have hindsight?), may have been too harsh. While I must, based on my previous comments, share your sentiments about child pageants and the pressure they wield on baby beauties, it’s also true that children are embarrassed easily and the pageant could have easily avoided humiliating that girl with its handling of its own mistake. — Ed. Note

Ed, I am calling you out on your inability to be fair and even with your coverage of Philadelphia and New York sports.

Go Giants

There are as many Giants fans as Eagles fans and nearly as many Yankees fans as Phillies fans in our sports department, so I think your complex is rooted in insecurity and not reality on this one. — Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I am calling about the canine sheriff who allegedly hit that dog. Whether he did or not, he should definitely have stopped. It is unconscionable. What kind of an example is he setting?

Dog Advocate

Upon further review, he didn’t hit the dog. And maybe he had a human to save. — Ed. Note

Ed, I am calling about the article on the Trenton Police being allowed to carry .45-caliber weapons. Obviously the police should have all the tools they need to fight crime in Trenton. I think it’s ludicrous that the police have to pay for their own weapons. The City of Trenton should provide them. As far as I’m concerned the police could carry .44 magnums or .50-caliber “Desert Eagles.” They need ’em.

Magnum

Why stop there? A nice grenade on a cop’s belt or a backpack flamethrower sends the message to a street thug who thinks he can start something.—Ed. Note

Ed, I am calling to see if anyone knows what’s going on in the Trenton area hospitals? What happened to the TLC (tender loving care). I had my mom in there with pneumonia. It seemed like we didn’t see a nurse for hours and when they did come in they just rolled their eyes. This is unbelievable. When I was a nurse 30 years ago we had TLC.

Retro Nurse

Blame it on budget cuts and reduced staffing, or just a reduction in the general humanity of humans, but times have changed. —Ed. Note

Ed, we really need your help. My family lost our cat in the area of the Yorkshire Apartments on Dec. 2. My little boy, he’s heartbroken. If any of your readers can help we would appreciate it. I’ll leave my phone number with you. The cat is a male domestic shorthair, all black with a small white patch on his neck and another on his belly. He goes by the name of Smacky.

Smacky’s Family

That’s so sad. If anyone out there picked up Smacky, please give us a call, no matter how cute he is. Think of the little boy.—Ed. Note

Ed, is there someway we can get Chris Smith to come back to the United States and worry about our problems rather than Russia’s problems? Get Chris Smith back into this country. Thank you.

Hamilton Homeland

Sometimes Russia’s problems and ours overlap. Especially in the area of human trafficking, a specialty of Rep. Smith. Remember the story the other week about the Bucks County guy allegedly pimping Russian orphan girls. And what about all that “European massage” going on around here?—Ed. Note

Ed, the year is 2012. The people stop going to the casinos, the people stop buying lottery tickets, the people stop drinking alcohol, the people stop smoking cigarettes. What kind of situation would our state government be in then? Think we would still be able to run? I don’t think so. Bye.

Doomsday

Without all the addiction-based revenue, they might have to do something even more apocalyptic like end corruption and institute efficiency in government. Thank God this nightmare scenario will never come true. —Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, in my opinion the government should not allow the $34 billion bailout for GM, Chrysler and Ford. I am glad it happened to them. Nobody helped the Tucker automobile. It came out in the 1930s and 1940s that GM, Chrysler, Ford and crooked politicians were able to get the Tucker out of the picture. What the Big 3 did to the Tucker is coming back to haunt them. Now one of the three has got to get out. If they can’t make it, we can just have two. Retribution is bliss.

Tuckered Out

Yeah, that’s it. It’s the freakin’ ghost of Tucker come back to haunt them — a fearsome specter with three glowing headlights, dragging chains of seat belts ....—Ed. Note

To Mr. “Blame the Union”: We are talking about an industry that helped us win a world war. GM did more for this country to keep us from ending up speaking German or Japanese. It’s easy to talk, but check the facts. GM donated millions of dollars to the 9/11 fund after Sept. 11. Toyota gave absolutely nothing. Look it up yourself. It makes me sick. We are letting the last industry in this country go down the tubes, and we’re laughing at the same time.

Auto Pride

You’re right. It’s a sad chapter in American history.—Ed. Note

Ed, I vote “no” to the bailout of the Big 3 auto giants. I know a GM worker first-hand. The UAW is killing itself with some of these so-called UAW perks. Did you know that as a GM worker you can take off up to six months a year and still receive 80 percent of your pay? It’s this kind of big mistake that put GM in such bad shape today.

A Toyota Owner

It was good while it lasted.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is from a member of the horseman’s association from our area. Where are our off-track betting parlors that the politicians from Burlington and Mercer counties promised us? There are none in this area.

Bet is Off

How about it, pols? This guy needs his fix.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I want to ask a question. My husband and I watch “Everybody loves Raymond” on TV every night. I say they portray an Italian family. My husband says they are a Jewish family. Can you please solve this dispute we have had every night for over a year now?

The Wife

They’re Chinese.—Ed. Note

Ed, instead of calling 911 for neighborhood breakins, keep the number of the local police by the phone and call them instead. They can dispatch a car without the delay of a “middleman.”

Speed Dial

Have you asked the officials how they feel about this advice?—Ed. Note

Hello, BackTalk, this for your readers’ information. Just because someone possesses the same ethnic last name as someone else, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are related. Please remember that when you read articles in The Trentonian.

Same Name

Duly noted. —Ed. Note

Ed, my 7-year-old daughter competed in the Lil Miss New Jersey Pageant Nov. 15 at Contemporary Hall in Trenton. I know all the girls were winners, but what occurred was a horrible experience for any young little girl to have to endure. Towards the pageant’s end they called out the the last names of five girls who made it to the final round. Two girls had the same last name, including my daughter, who stepped up, so proud and happy. Moments later as she started to answer the questions for the judges, an announcement was made in front hundreds of people telling her they had called the wrong name and my daughter needed to step off the stage. Heartbroken, my daughter went in the back and started vomiting profusely. She could not understand why this was done to her. She said “The judges did not like me?”The pageant director and her staff could have allowed both girls to remain on stage and answer the questions, and she could have explained the mixup to me after the show. The judges and director already ready knew at that point who was going to be the next Little Miss New Jersey because the judges were heard saying amongst themselves that Ms. Keys stole the show. I feel the director should not have embarassed a poor innocent little girl the way she did in front of a crowd of people. Not to mention the fact that this same incident happened to a little girl last year at the same beauty pageant. My daughter should not have been penalized for their mistake. Where is the justice for my daughter? No one cared enough to think about how this would impact a young child’s life. I understand in a competition there will always be one child who might not make it, but why give a little girl a moment of fame and than take it from her in front of a room full of people?

Angry Mom

It’s too bad that happened to your daughter, but it was a mistake. They didn’t handle it well, but it was a mistake. It’s your job as her mother to make her understand that the pageant is a contest, for fun, and it’s not the most important thing in the world. She’s 7 years old. She shouldn’t have any pressure to succeed. Maybe if you didn’t take this so seriously she wouldn’t either.—Ed. Note

Hello, Ed, I would appreciate it if any of your readers could inform me where to call or apply for grants to help send a child to a private school. Thank you.

Rose

OK, smartpants BackTalkers, let’s give Rose some help.— Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I have two issues I would like the Hamilton mayor’s office to answer. (I am sure they will not.) First, I drove through the roundabout on George Dye Road yesterday, and if this isn’t the biggest waste of taxpayer time and money that I have ever seen. Nowhere in the township is there anything as ugly as this. What makes this road so special? Second, was it my tax dollars that paid for the two full-page ads in your paper about scheduled leaf pickup? My street was scheduled for Dec. 1, and today is Dec. 10 and still no pickup. Why make a schedule if you’re not going to use it? The streets are a mess. I can’t wait to put my Christmas tree out for pickup; maybe they can beat March this year.

Yard Waste

Maybe your leaves weren’t obvious enough. Did you use those orange jack-o-lantern bags?—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I saw an article about the couple who came forward with a winning ticket worth $126 million. I heard they have been here in the U.S. for 30 years and they don’t speak English. I found this hard to believe. How do they know where and when to go play lottery since they don’t speak English?

Lost in Translation

You don’t have to be fluent to know that “lottery” means “lotería.”—Ed. Note

Ed, I think the state and townships can save money by taking the cars off of the supervisors and make ’em drive their own cars back and forth to work. It would save a lot of people’s money for the gas that we put in their cars.

Penny Pincher

Work perks of any sort should be on the endangered list in this economy.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, My name is Alice. I have a friend who had a stroke. She is a young woman who doesn’t have a lot of money. She is in desparate need of an exercise bicycle for her legs. If there is anyone out there willing to donate an exercise bike for free please call my number 851-6512. Thank you so much, Ed, she would really appreciate it. It would be a lovely gift for the holidays.

Pedal Power

BackTalkers, you know there are thousands of you out there with exercise bikes rotting in the basement, used twice, probably right after you made a New Year’s resolution to lose 6 pounds. Give it to someone who really needs it.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m calling about the story about the church con artist, and I’d give some advice to our elderly people. When you’re going to the bank and you are coming out, do not talk to anyone, just get in your car and go home. These con artists target elderly people coming out of banks.

Word to the Wise

The “don’t talk to strangers rule” isn’t just for little kids anymore.—Ed. Note

Ed, about your Dec. 5 response to Jets fans about Burress, “Wait until all the facts are out,” in New York State there’s a three-year mandatory prison term for unlicensed weapons possession. No plea bargain! No discussions! Burress should be in jail. Anyone else would be up there already. They would be held.

Eagles Fan

He’s hard to tackle.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, can someone tell me why the government is bailing out these banks? Why should they be getting breaks when the rest of us are paying our mortgages? Why shouldn’t they give us at least a 2.5 percent reduction on our mortgages, for everybody, right across the board?

My Money

You’re not “too big to fail.” (That’s no comment on your weight. Unless it’s a compliment.)—Ed. Note

Hi, just thought I would let you know that after the holidays the Christmas tree is given to Habitat for Humanity. The wood is used to help build homes for people in need, it does not just become a pile of mulch. So a special tradition that has delighted many for years and years gets put to good use. The money used for this is paid for by a private company, so it is not as if taxpayers are paying for it.

Wood is Good

That’s great! Which Christmas tree?—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, my daughter goes to Hamilton High West high school. From what I understand they just spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on new boilers in that building. But the heating system does not work. Last week I went to the nurses’ office to pick up my daughter who got really sick. You go in there and you are freezing. You are like an Eskimo, you might as well wear your coat all day. The administrators and principal know about this, I called them, but they never got back to me. Nothing is being done about this. Please put this in the paper for our kids. Thank you.

Mom of Cold Kid

Kids need a little hardship. Builds character. Buy her some long underwear for Christmas.—Ed. Note

Good morning, I’d like to thank the Robert Wood Johnson (University Hospital) ambulance squad for saving my husband’s life recently. It was 10:35 a.m., and I can’t express how marvelous the entire emergency unit was. My husband is doing great and it’s because of the RWJ ambulance squad. I’m very, very grateful. My name is Barbara. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Grateful Wife

I love a happy ending. You’ll appreciate this Christmas more than any other. It’s a wonderful life.—Ed. Note

Ed, it’s funny, after Joe Santiago left Trenton the police started finding drug dealers, and they busted $60,000 in heroin. Irvington is in for the same things; they won’t be able to find drugs with Joe Santiago in town. Thank God he’s gone.

No Joe

The cops made drug busts with Joe in town, too. But there are many in the department who agree with you, saying the vice cops are more free to do their jobs now and the results are showing.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I’d like to comment on the 911 situation in Hamilton. These callers are 100 percent correct. The woman who answers 911, also the gentleman who works there, or if you dial the regular number for Hamilton Police,they have no experience whatsoever. Chief Collins needs to look into these dispatchers, send them for training, crack down, because they are rude, ignorant and don’t care what your problem is. They act like you’re bothering them. They’re always “busy,” or it’s their lunch time. Chief Collins and Mayor Bencivengo need to revamp the 911 system like Trenton PD.

Call to Action

With all the people out of work these days, these crude operators better get it together or expect to be replaced.—Ed. Note

Ed, I’m calling about the double standards that let Angela Honeycutt get off so lightly. If that were a male that did those same acts with a young female, he would have been charged and put in jail. I think it’s outrageous that she got off so lightly.

Equal Treatment

Indeed. If some hairy 38-year-old drunk man got in the shower with 14- and 15-year-old girls at a neighbor’s slumber party, he’d be toast. So now we know, there is a double standard.—Ed. Note

Ed, this is in response to the disabled mother who wanted a free cat. I have a 5-year-old orange and white male cat named Tango. He is neutered and has all his shots. I have been taking care of him since he was a kitten. He lives at Kuser Farm Park. I’ll gladly hook this mother up with this cat. He needs a home. I want him to be a totally indoor cat.

Feline Fixup

Totally indoors? No more late nights roaming the neighborhood, no more chasing mice, no more making trouble with his band of cat buddies? You’re killing the joy.—Ed. Note

Hey, Ed. I have a 25-foot-tall Christmas tree. If any organization can use it they can come, cut it down and they can have it. I’ll leave my phone number: 585-5209.

Tree Man

We’ll trust you that this is your tree and not a prank to chop down a rival neighbor’s spruce that blocks your view.—Ed. Note

Ed, they have taken away the customer parking spaces behind PSE&G. There used to be spaces you could pull into for 15 minutes to give you time to run in and pay your bill. Now their employees have taken over the spaces and they tell the customers to find someplace else to park. I don’t think that’s right.

Squeezed Out

They’d probably make room for an electric car.—Ed. Note

Congratulations to columnist Mike Reagan; there should be more people in the world like him. No, I will not buy where they won’t say Merry Christmas. It is what it is. I don’t have any trouble saying Happy Hanukkah to someone who is Jewish. Say Merry Christmas to me because that’s just what it is.

Merry Shopper

How will you know if an establishment says “Merry Christmas”? Will you call up and ask them what their preferred holiday greeting is, or will you just shop there for a few hours until someone says it to you and then leave without buying anything if they never do? —Ed. Note

Ed, this is Barbara. I just wanted you to know that I called Mary (of Tender Hearts). I told her of my daughter who is very ill and is the mother of five children. At the last minute Mary put together a basket for Thanksgiving dinner. She helped out my family. Mary is a great soul. I just wanted to let you know that people do read BackTalk. I buy the paper every day.

Barbara

Thanks to Mary and everyone like her out there making the holidays bright in dark times.—Ed. Note

Ed, I have a problem with the T.P.D. They’re doing a fairly decent job, but my question is do the T.P.D. and city officials feel any embarrassment with the robberies, assaults, and shootings happening within a block or two of each of the police stations? I mean, really, Hoffman Avenue is only about four blocks long. Is it that no one cares that our criminals have evolved to such a state that they have absolutely no qualms with shooting someone only a stone’s throw away from a police station. What’s next, homicides and robberies in the police station lobby?

In the Hood

Don’t give the criminals any ideas.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed. Years ago I worked as a carpenter’s foreman out of Local Union 31 on the first phase of remodeling at the South Clinton Train Station. Rumors at the time were that another station might rise above, since we used extra-strength foundations and reinforced the river bed with 28-foot pilings to support future additions. During the time we were on the job, a train containing General McArthur’s body passed by headed for Arlington Cemetery. Now we have this huge art piece “Ribbons and Confetti,” which is out of place and cost an enormous amount of money at a time when we are already up to our necks in the quicksand of the economic deficit. This money could have been spent for a better purpose such as autism research, crime control and keeping students in school.

Change the Station

You can climb the Ribbons and Confetti to escape the quicksand.—Ed. Note

Ed, time and again I have been silent about Jeff Edelstein’s moronic leftist views and idiotic opinions regarding football, but no more. First and foremost the Steelers are not beatable, especially to a loser team like the Jets. Don’t even think that a washed-up QB like Favre can compete on the same level as Big Ben. Secondly, your comment weeks ago about how if the Florida recount were different we would have undoubtedly had Gore (scary thought) as president, then in ’04 we would have had another Democrat. Yeah, I don’t know if you were aware but the majority of the country voted for Bush in ’04. Now as far as your recent comments regarding us playing God when we drive, hunt or do any day-to-day activity is just so absurd. First of all, hunting was something that was OK’d by God, that’s why we have certain animals that we can eat. (Granted I guess all animals could be edible but let’s not go there.) Stem cells curing anything? No, there is no factual proof that stem cells have or are able to cure anything, so to justify murdering unborn babies to experiment with this is not right. Edelstein, I know these are your opinions but I feel the need to tell you mine.

The Anti Jeff

Do you have “factual proof” that killing animals was OK’d by God?—Ed. Note

Ed, people need to know about Bill A1628 coming before the state Assembly. I don’t see a lot of chatter about it in the papers. It would allow landlords to install water meters in apartments to record water usage by the month. This idea has been floating around for a while. It’s another way to tap the residents of the city of Trenton in their pockets. If they are supposed to encourage water conservation by the tenants, why don’t the landlords install water-saving showerheads or fix the leaking faucet in my sink?

Drained Out

Damn landlords.—Ed. Note

Ed, here we go again. The United States Government is giving Mexico $400 million to fight their drug cartels. Mexico, the biggest drug country and home of the illegal alien crossroads. U.S. citizens are being layed off from their jobs, losing their homes, are unemployed. Where is the ACLU — “American Communist Liberty Union” — are they afraid to intervene?

Borderline

Our drug addicts fund the Mexican drug trade and our tax dollars fight it. That’s a lot of money flowing over the border. —Ed. Note

Hey, Ed, every day after work it’s like a madhouse. I’m talking about the evening rush-hour traffic at West State Street and the Calhoun Street Bridge. Everyone in a hurry to get across that bridge. Why aren’t the police out there directing traffic? It’s like a rat race in that congested area, everyone in a hurry. Someone is going to get hurt. There is no police presence. This matter needs to be addressed. Thank you.

Frogger

Can’t we all just drive along?—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I watched on TV the Christmas tree lighting program at Rockefeller Center with all the entertainers. I was disappointed when Beyonce came on stage. It’s so cold out there, she is such a beautiful looking person, but I guess she was trying to get a point across to our young girls because she had half of her body out while singing “Ave Maria.” I think it’s totally uncalled for. I guess that’s where our young girls are getting into trouble trying to dress like movie stars. Oh, well. Have a blessed holiday.

Cover Up

It was her Christmas present to all the male viewers in TV land. —Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I want to give my opinion of the big controversy about gay marriage rights. Isn’t it a little bit ridiculous that two men and two women marry each other? In the Bible does it say two Adams together and two Eves together? I don’t think it’s normal or right. They shouldn’t give so much media coverage to it. Kids have to see this and it’s a lot.

One Adam

Not everyone takes their cues from the Bible.—Ed. Note

Hi, animal lovers. A terrible thing is happening at the Trenton shelter. We are going to lose a great animal advocate, John Micklewright, because they are cutting the budget. Is there anyone out there who can help us keep him? He has helped so many animals. As a rescue person I have had much success in dealing with him, getting animals and saving animals. Please help. Mayor Palmer, don’t cut John Micklewright out of the budget.

Have a Heart

Time for all the stray dogs in the city to stage a bow-wow-pow-wow protest in front of the mayor’s house. Leave him little lawn presents until he agrees to save John’s job.—Ed. Note

Hi, animal lovers. A terrible thing is happening at the Trenton shelter. We are going to lose a great animal advocate, John Micklewright, because they are cutting the budget. Is there anyone out there who can help us keep him? He has helped so many animals. As a rescue person I have had much success in dealing with him, getting animals and saving animals. Please help. Mayor Palmer, don’t cut John Micklewright out of the budget.

Have a Heart

Time for all the stray dogs in the city to stage a bow-wow-pow-wow protest in front of the mayor’s house. Leave him little lawn presents until he agrees to save John’s job.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I call every year to remind your readers that the temperatures are growing cold again. If you have outside pets, which is never recommended, they must have protective covering, a place to get out of the wind, rain and snow. You have to give them proper protection, a doghouse and an electric water bowl so that their water does not freeze. Otherwise you are breaking the law. This includes cats, too; they must have some kind of shelter to get out of the elements. You bought or adopted them. Take care of them.

In the Doghouse

Plus it’s fun to build a dog house. One more way to one-up the neighbors. Go for a solar-powered electric dish and a Canadian rocker doggie porch swing to really make a statement.—Ed. Note

Hello, does anyone out there know where I can find Winesap apples? They are a winter apple. Come out around Halloween. I don’t know where to get ’em and would like to know if anyone out there can help me find this old-fashioned Winesap apple. Thank you.

Amy Winesap

If anyone knows apples, it’s BackTalkers. One-third of BackTalkers can trace their lineage directly to Johnny Appleseed.—Ed. Note

Ed, I have to agree with Jeff Edelstein’s column referring to big mouth, you know who, Rosie, who is starting a new show. I think she should go off the air forever. Thank you.

Rose Blows

Looks like you got your wish after her show bombed. —Ed. Note

Ed, I can’t believe that President Bush has pardoned Mr. John Forte. The man was carrying $1.4 million of liquid cocaine. Why don’t the president just pardon everyone and just forget about the judicial system? Just pardon every man and woman in jail even if it was a second offense. Negative vote 1 for Bush.

Pardon Me

That’s the first negative you’ve come up with for President Bush? Anyway, what’s a little liquid cocaine among friends?—Ed. Note

Ed, Mayor Bencivengo said his name would not be on signs all over Hamilton Township. Well, what about the sign in front of the Ace Hardware Shopping Center on Route 33 that has his name on it? No signs? I thought you weren’t going to be like Mayor Gilmore.

Name Caller

He’s a popular guy. He can’t help it if his name pops up now and then.—Ed. Note

Hi, maybe Mayor Bencivengo should come on George Dye Road and see the traffic and how fast it is going. You can’t even get out of your driveway. Mayor Bencivengo, you should move here from your house in Enchantment, and you are not 55. Thank you.

Backing Out

He doesn’t look a day over 45.—Ed. Note

Hi, this is in defense of Mary from Tender Hearts. I don’t know why this person who called in was so critical. Despite serious medical problems, this lady, Mary, is there for everyone, every day; no matter if it is day or night she can be reached. I know her; she is one of my best friends. Maybe this person who found fault should get up, get moving and go help Mary. Thank you.

Got Mary’s Back

Remember that song from Mary Poppins?“When Mary ’olds your ’and, you feel so grand“Your ’eart starts beatin’ like a big brass band“It’s a jolly ’oliday with Mary“No wonder that it’s Mary that we love!”—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, this is Mary from Tender Hearts. I wanted to thank the Recreation Department of Hamilton Township for helping out with the Thanksgiving baskets this year. I also wish to thank all the people who came to Fall Harvest and donated canned goods. They had the Fall Harvest all set up and people came there and brought canned goods for us. They have been doing this for a number of years and we really couldn’t have done this without their help. In fact, this is where we get most of our canned goods. So now Thanksgiving is over and we are looking for turkeys for Christmas. New toys are also needed. Thank you.

Mary the Tender Hearted

If you don’t want to feel like a Scrooge this Christmas, bring some toys to Mary and she’ll turn you into a good deed doer.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I was wondering if any veterans’ groups could use a couple of adult male coats. I also have young kids books and Walt Disney VHS videos if any children’s organization could use them.

Free Stuff

Kids these days don’t even know what VHS is. Got any 8-tracks to complete the history lesson?—Ed. Note

Ed, I am calling about an article that ran recently. It is another example of dirty politics in the city of Trenton. Now why would they hire this here guy Barry Colicelli who had been rejected once before and thrown out of the job before at a cost just when the city is supposedly having financial problems? They have someone else, Philip Bunting, who would do the job for a lot less. It’s just common sense. Why would you pay more for somebody to do the same job? It’s simply dirty politics. I’m just so sick of politics in New Jersey.

Fan of Phil

Does Phil know you’re campaigning for him in a public forum?—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, my son brought home a black and white cat that had followed him from school. I took the cat in because it was so emaciated it was falling down. Two months ago I remember seeing signs about a cat that was lost in the Steinert area but I didn’t save any of the information. I would appreciate it if the person who put up the signs could call me with a description of the cat. I would love to reunite these people with their cat, especially before the holidays. I’ll put up some flyers but I know that I can reach more people through your readers than I could by any sign on a telephone pole. Thank you.

Herding Cats

Give us a call here at the BackTalk Animal Shelter if you think this is your cat.—Ed. Note

Ed, this message is for Gov. Jon Corzine: Gov. Corzine, before you lay off any rank-and-file member that works for the State of New Jersey you should do an audit on all state pensioners. Many politicians or government workers are receiving more than one pension. You should pass a law where you can eliminate those extra pensions. It should be one person, one pension. You got to make some tough choices. You got to do what it takes to be a leader or come next election you’re out.

Get Tough

If only the governor would heed the advice of BackTalkers he’d whip this state into shape in no time.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I am calling in response to the woman who talked about jury duty. When my husband was in his 70s he was called for jury duty but due to medical problems he was excused. He passed away at 85 years old. Recently he received a notice to appear for jury duty, a petit jury. I called to let them know he had passed away. Then I received a card in the mail saying “failure to respond to this notice may result in a summons to appear in superior court.” I hope they get their act together. For one thing, why would they even call a man of age 85? I can’t believe they are messing up this way when there are so many young people who could serve.

Widow

Some of these juries could really use the wisdom of an elderly man. But not a dead one.—Ed. Note

Dear Ed, I am currently a high school science teacher at Ewing High School, one of the best urban public schools in the state, with a top-shelf administration. I am reaching out to BackTalk about the preschool program Ms. McGowan is trying to get off the ground here at the high school. The program will run from 11:45 till 2:15 Tuesday-Thursday. The preschoolers will be interacting with the high school students on a daily basis. The program has room for eight children; currently my son is the only one registered. If there are any parents that are looking for a nurturing environment for their children please contact Ms. McGowan at the high school. Oh, I forgot one thing, IT’S FREE! Is anything free these days?

Earth Man

The BackTalk Preschool Placement Initiative is in effect. The spots will be filled in no time.—Ed. Note

Hello, Ed. First I would just like to say that I am not a racist or anti anything whatsoever. I was born in this country and have lived here all of my life. I just want to know when it became a liability to speak English. I go to work and I can’t get an advanced or managerial position because I don’t speak a second language. I should not have to pay out-of-pocket to learn a second language. Only in America can someone come to this country and not speak a lick of English and advance past someone who speaks perfectly good English.

Tongue Tied

Not just in America. I think the non-English-speakers do OK in several countries. —Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I’m calling in response to the woman who wrote in on Dec 1. She was reaching out for help for her out-of-control teenager. I want to offer this phone number — 586-4788 — at the Princeton House Behavioral Health Center. Dr. Care, an adolescent psychiatrist, is fantastic. I’m sure she can put her child in the right program, in the right direction. She was absolutely fabulous in regard to my own daughter who is now 17 and doing wonderfully. Great job, Ed, thanks and have a great day.

Super Mom

Sometimes it’s not “just a phase.” You gotta call in the professionals.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I was calling in regards to the woman looking for a solar-powered Christmas tree. I don’t know about solar trees, but I know that QVC sells battery-operated trees with timers on them. You can give them a call.

It Keeps Going

As long as you use those biodegradable batteries, it will be just as gentle on the environment as the solar tree.—Ed. Note

Ed, I saw Joe Paparella’s picture in the paper. He used to be my general manager when I was 13. I’m 54 now and I remember him real well. A great guy. Good luck to you, Joe.

Larry from Mercerville

Joe was the best. We’ll miss him.—Ed. Note

Hi, Ed, I am calling about the person who complained about the Hamilton 911 system. I used to be an EMT in Mercer County. I think I can explain what happens when you call 911 locally. Your call goes directly to the area police department. You are questioned by them first. If they determine that your problem is a medical emergency your call is then transferred to Mercer County Emergency Medical Services in another building, miles away. There you have to explain your problem a second time to the people responsible for dispatching the EMTs and the paramedics. These people frequently offer immediate medical advice over the phone. Advice on how to help people in child birth, first aid for cuts, how to give CPR, etc. I know it is inconvenient and upsetting to the person waiting for help. But what seems like hours is usually minutes. The police don’t speak directly to the EMS, you will always be transferred. It may not be the easiest system but that’s what we got.

On Call

So the problem is all in our perception of time. That’s far out, man.—Ed. Note

Good morning, Ed, I’m sure there will be many comments on the Black Friday killing. I am only surprised that it took this long for the true spirit of maniac greed to lead to murder. I do hope the successful shoppers are really proud of themselves.

Dispirited

They’ll probably make a best-selling Nintendo game about shopping in a Wal-Mart War Zone. Supplies are limited. —Ed. Note

Ed, this is about the unemployment money for this week. We were supposed to call in our benefits to receive a check by Wednesday before the Thanksgiving holiday. I tried from 8 a.m. to 5 in the afternoon and could not get through. The phone system was down so I tried contacting customer service by computer but could not get anywhere. This is no coincidence to me that I could not get through, all things were broken down it seems intentionally done so people entitled couldn’t get their checks before the Thanksgiving holiday. How nasty and inconsiderate can these people be.

No Thanks

Sounds like everybody cut out early on Wednesday for the holiday. Their intentions were selfish not malicious.—Ed. Note

Hello, this is Mary from Tender Hearts. I wanted to call and let you and all the people who helped us know that we just delivered our 97th food basket. BackTalk readers are the best and I must thank you and also all of our super volunteers. You know it’s a great feeling everyone helping together. Bless you for everything you do to help others. I sat down on Thanksgiving day and said I am thankful for BackTalk. Pat yourself on the back because without you I could not get the message out. Have a great holiday and you know you’ll be hearing from me before Christmas.

Mary

Nobody better be hating on BackTalk after that testimony. BackTalk is a divine vehicle of peace and goodwill.—Ed. Note