MAYOR WHO FOUGHT ANTHRAX CALLS FEDERAL DRILL RESULTS "TROUBLING"

(HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ) - "After two years, the federal government should be further along in being ready to respond to an anthrax attack." That was the reaction today of Glen D. Gilmore, Mayor of the community in central NJ that was a victim of an anthrax attack in October of 2001, in response to news reports that a recent national preparedness drill showed that the nation is still not ready to deal with the next anthrax incident.
Mayor Gilmore's municipality of Hamilton is the site of a major postal processing center that in October of 2001 was contaminated by anthrax-bearing mail. The mail was sorted at the Hamilton facility on its way to congressional offices in Washington and New York.
Nationally credited with saving several lives by taking decisive action to provide local postal workers and residents with free access to antibiotics independent of any federal program, the Mayor noted that, "A subsequent medical study has shown that the prompt action we took in Hamilton probably saved lives. It is troubling that two years later, the federal government has still not learned that lesson."
The Mayor said that he is drafting letters to his federal representatives urging them to focus on making anthrax preparation a key federal priority. "New Jersey took a back seat to Washington, DC when it came to clean-up operations," noted the Mayor, "We cannot afford to be anywhere but first when it comes to preparations for the next biological agent attack."
"Back in 2002, I expected federal authorities to be on the scene with a program to treat people exposed to this biological attack," said the Mayor, "They weren't there then and this recent drill indicates they are only marginally closer to being there for the next incident."
"Last month the federal government conducted a cabinet level `tabletop exercise' called Scarlet Cloud designed to simulate an aerosolized anthrax attack on several cities," said the Mayor. "The New York Times reported yesterday on the exercise and noted that although detection of the virus was mainly successful, the ability to get antibiotics to the people who need them still falls far short of acceptable."
"It seems to me that being able to detect a threat, but not being able to provide treatment is a sure-fire recipe for disaster in the event of a real attack," he concluded.

 

 

 

MAYOR GILMORE :TEN ACRE OPEN SPACE PARCEL PRESERVED NEAR WARWICK PARK

(HAMILTON) Mayor Glen D. Gilmore today announced that Hamilton has accepted the donation of 10 acres of land adjacent to Warwick Park on Quakerbridge Road from Betty Simon Trustee, LLC for permanent preservation as open space. "This donation is a welcome addition to our open space inventory especially because it includes a portion of Miry Run," the Mayor said.
The Mayor also pointed out that the Simon parcel is the latest of several open space areas preserved through cooperation between local, county and state governments. "Hamilton passed the first open space master plan in the Township's history and that blueprint has been an important tool as we try to save as much open space as possible for future generations."
The Mayor noted that there are no plans to develop the property for active use, but added that township crews will be including the area in the Township's annual stream cleaning efforts to minimize flooding.

 

 

MAYOR GILMORE ANNOUNCES HAMILTON HAS FLU VACCINE

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen D. Gilmore today announced that Hamilton Township has on hand 1000 doses of this year's flu vaccine and that this would be made available to high-risk individuals and those that the Center for Disease Control recommends be vaccinated. "Recognizing the importance of flu vaccine, I have worked to ensure that Hamilton Township has enough on hand to serve the needs of our community."

The Mayor said he had anticipated growing demand for the vaccine by doubling the amount ordered annually by the township in past years. "Each year the flu strain seems to get worse. With a growing senior population, I wanted to see that we encouraged even more people to get the vaccine. It was clear that flu vaccine is becoming an increasingly important part of our public health arsenal and by making more of the vaccine available for free to our at-risk population, we can keep our community healthier longer."

The Mayor said that the anti-flu program had already touched thousands, of people this year, "We have already provided free doses of flu vaccine to 4,410 people and are prepared to distribute an additional 1000 doses after consulting with the state public health authorities." The Mayor added, "A representatives of our local health department met with state health officials today and developed a plan to provide additional clinics. Hamilton physicians will also be contacted to promote the clinics for high risk individuals who have diminished immune systems."

To schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine, or for additional information on flu vaccine and other public health programs, residents should call 890-3884.

 

 

MAYOR GILMORE FINES FIRM FOR SLOPPY TRASH SERVICE

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen D. Gilmore today announced that Hamilton Township is levying an $8000 fine against Waste Management of Central Jersey Inc. for missing trash and bagged leaf pickups in the Township.
“I won’t accept the failure of Waste Management to pick up bagged leaves and other trash. This fine sends the message loud and clear that we will not tolerate shoddy trash collection in Hamilton Township,” said Mayor Gilmore. “And, we will continue to fine them until the service is done as it should be.”
The Mayor explained, “We have documented the missed pickups and forwarded their location to Waste Management. Although they have 24 hours to correct a problem, there has been a breakdown in the company response that is totally unacceptable.”
The Mayor invited residents to call his office at 890-3502 or to contact him via E-Mail at GGilmore@ Hamiltonnj.com if their trash is not picked up on schedule.
“Hamilton fined Waste Management $2000 last year for similar problems and the service improved, but now we are seeing problems resurface. They were awarded the contract based on the fact that they were the lowest bidder for the job, but we’re not going to tolerate anything less than the best service,” said the Mayor.

 

 

MAYOR GILMORE TO KICK OFF HAMILTON WINTER WONDERLAND WITH TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

FESTIVITIES CONTINUE THROUGH SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

(HAMILTON) The spirit of the season will present in abundance in Hamilton’s Kuser Park beginning Wednesday night at 6:00PM as a large crowd of Township residents is expected to turn out for the annual lighting ceremonies for Winter Wonderland.
With a resounding countdown from the crowd, Mayor Glen D. Gilmore will throw the switch to illuminate thousands of colored bulbs and kick off the opening of the popular township attraction. “Winter Wonderland is one of the most exhilerating township events of the year,” said Mayor Gilmore, “Hearing the oohs and aahs of wonder when the lights came on tell me that Winter Wonderland is going to be the great success we plan for.”
For the kids of all ages, the big attraction is going to be Santa Claus. He and Mrs. Claus will be in the park with their helpers to take toy requests from all the good little boys and girls.

The Winter Wonderland transforms Kuser Park into a delightful seasonal village. The centerpiece is the Kuser Mansion that becomes a jewel bedecked in golden icicle lights and hosts tours where visitors can view Victorian Christmas room scenes. Loans of rare Christmas decorations by area residents add to the experience and create a unique expression of the holidays. Tours of two floors of the home are available 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. through December 6th and again December 10, 11, 12 and 14.
Visitors can greet Life size comic characters who roam the Park and wave to the passengers of the Winter Wonderland Train as it passes.
“It’s magical to see the wonder in a child’s eyes as they wander through the village with their parents,” said Mayor Gilmore, “You just know that this is an experience they will tell their children about someday.”
“The hundreds of volunteers and Township workers who transformed our Park into a Winter Wonderland bring the holiday season to life with this joyous village,” said Mayor Gilmore.
Winter Wonderland continues on with Santa, musicians and house tours through Saturday evening.

 

 

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP OFFERS FREE, CONFIDENTIAL HIV TESTING

(HAMILTON) - As events are held to recognize “World AIDs Day,” Hamilton Township is reminding residents that it offers free and confidential counseling and testing for HIV (venous and oral HIV testing available) and STD's at the Hamilton Township Division of Health, located at 2100 Greenwood Avenue, every Monday and Thursday, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m..
Said Hamilton Mayor Glen Gilmore, “Anyone who may be at risk for the disease should know that free and confidential testing is readily available.” Further information is available by calling the Hamilton Township Health Department at: (609) 890-3647.

 

*** EVENT ADVISORY***

MAYOR GILMORE TO LEAD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PANELS

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen D. Gilmore will be leading two panels of the state’s top experts as they discuss promoting economic development in New Jersey at the annual NJ league of Municipalities convention on Wednesday. In the morning, the Mayor will lead a panel at a joint session with the Tax Collectors and Treasurers Association and the Government Finance Officers Association as they address the topic of “Priming Your Community for Economic Growth.” Later, in the afternoon session, he will lead another discussion on Resources for Building a Successful Economic Development Program for your Community.” Both programs are being held as part of the 88th Annual League of Municipalities Conference.
Mayor Gilmore is a leading voice in New Jersey on promoting smart economic development and was selected this year as the Chairman of the League’s Task Force on Economic Development
“Hamilton’s success story in encouraging smart growth serves as an example for the rest of the state to follow,” noted the Mayor.
The Mayor described how the programs will encourage local communities to plan for economic development. “By learning the ways that successful communities create an environment that encourages economic renewal and growth, every community in New Jersey can benefit from the lessons that will be shared during this seminar.”

The Mayor noted that Hamilton has been remarkably successful in the past four years in attracting new businesses, “A major Verizon facility, high-tech corporate headquarters and dramatic retail growth have all come about because we have worked hard to create a business friendly environment in the Township."
The Mayor also highlighted another area of growth for the Township. “Even in the office space market, Hamilton has one of the highest occupancy rates in Mercer County, even higher than along the Route #1 corridor.”
The Mayor’s first session will be held Wednesday, November 219 from 10:45 A.M. to 12:00 Noon PM in room 312 of the Atlantic City Convention Center. The afternoon session is slated for 2:00 P.M. to 3:40 P.M. in room 417 of the Center.
“Locally, I’ve tried to promote the importance of smart growth for Hamilton Township,” concluded the Mayor, “This seminar gives me the opportunity to take that message throughout New Jersey.”

LEAF COLLECTION UP 250% OVER LAST YEAR

(HAMILTON) Mayor Glen D. Gilmore today announced that municipal leaf collection is currently running 250% ahead of last year. “As of today, we are running a full month ahead of where we were last year in our gutter collection program,” said the Mayor, “We have picked up over 10,000 cubic yards of leaves which is a number we didn’t reach until late December last year.”
“A big factor in the improved collection has been the weather,” said the Mayor, “We have been able to get more crews on the roadways for longer hours during the heaviest part of the leaf fall. We have also enhanced our management of the program to ensure maximum efficiency and that we are getting to the areas with the largest accumulations of leaves first.”
The Mayor also noted that the township’s municipal garbage collector, Waste Management Inc., has reported that they have picked up over 848 cubic yards in the bagged leaf pickup program. “Any effort that residents make to bag their own leaves is greatly appreciated because bagged pickup is more efficient and less time consuming.”
“We have had leaves fall in a more condensed period because of major windstorms during the past few weeks,” the Mayor said. “Even so our road crews have risen to the challenge and are collecting leaves at a record rate.”
The Mayor said that gutter leaf collection will continue through January 15 as it has in previous years, but that he expects the effort in January to be more aimed at residents who missed the main pickup effort going on now.

MAYOR GILMORE ANNOUNCES SEATBELT CHECKS FOR HOLIDAYS

(HAMILTON) Hamilton law enforcement officials are on the lookout for drivers not wearing seatbelts this holiday season, thanks to a special grant from the State of New Jersey. The “Click It or Ticket” program, which began November 17 and continues through the 30th, provides for special enforcement patrols to identify and ticket drivers not wearing safety belts. “Seatbelt use enforcement has had a dramatic effect on roadway safety throughout New Jersey” said Mayor Gilmore, “Here in Hamilton, it’s just one more part of our overall program to make our roadways safer.”
Hamilton is one of 112 municipalities in New Jersey to be awarded a ``Click It or Ticket'' enforcement grant of $3,600 by the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. The grants pay for special enforcement units to identify drivers not using their seatbelts and issue tickets to offenders.
“It shouldn’t take a ticket for drivers to use their seatbelts,” said the Mayor, “But, if we can get just one more person safely home to their relatives this holiday season because they remembered to buckle up, it will be worth it.”

MAYOR GILMORE DISTRIBUTES HOLIDAY TURKEYS TODAY

(HAMILTON) – Mayor Glen D. Gilmore visited Hamilton holiday institution DiPaola Turkey Farms today to receive 100 turkeys destined for the tables of needy families in the township for the Thanksgiving holiday. “This time of the year when we all look at what we have to be thankful for, we must also think of those less fortunate,” said the Mayor, “This donation by DiPaola is a sterling example of the community spirit and generosity that characterizes Hamilton businesses.”
The Mayor added, “DiPaola is a long time part of the Hamilton community and they deserve our thanks for being such a generous neighbor.”
After collecting the birds this morning , the Mayor supervised their distribution to area social service agencies who will make the final delivery to needy homes in Hamilton just in time to be prepared for Thanksgiving.

The Dipaola turkey farm is located at 883 Edinburg Road.

EVENT ADVISORY*
MAYOR GILMORE TO ANNOUNCE OPEN SPACE
PRESERVATION

(HAMILTON) Hamilton Township Mayor Glen D. Gilmore will be conducting a press conference tomorrow, Thursday, October 30th, at 2:00 p.m. to announce a major open space preservation initiative. The press conference will be conducted at the Ellis Farm, located at 214 Saw Mill Road, Yardville, in Hamilton Township.

MAYOR GILMORE ANNOUNCES COMMENCEMENT OF INSTALLATION OF BROAD STREET HISTORIC LIGHTING

(HAMILTON) - "The future of Broad Street is looking brighter," said Hamilton Mayor Glen D. Gilmore, as he announced the commencement of the installation of historic-looking double-balled street lights along the landscaped Broad Street traffic islands. "Thanks to a $500,000 grant we were successful in obtaining from the State, we will be installing about sixty of the historic lights along the entire course of the Hamilton section of Broad Street," said the Mayor. "The lights are part of an overall streetscape improvement plan that will also
provide a major landscaping improvement to the traffic islands, brick crosswalks at key intersections, and some historic-looking street lights along the corridor," Gilmore said. He added that the plan also calls for improvements to signage along the corridor, as well as the trimming of older trees along the roadway.
Mayor Gilmore noted that these most recent improvements follow a grant that the Township was successful in obtaining about two years ago which covered the cost of tree-planting along the entire Hamilton stretch of traffic islands. "The trees we planted were specifically chosen because their roots stay away from the ground surface, so that we don't have to worry about them disrupting the roadway or sidewalks," Gilmore said. He also explained that the landscaping improvements for the islands call for brick accents along the edges of the island, and the planting of low-growing, flowering shrubs and perennials, as well as the planting of hundreds of spring-blossoming bulbs."

Mayor Gilmore Announces Members of Youth Advisory Commission

(Hamilton) Mayor Glen D. Gilmore announced the names of fifteen Township teenagers who will serve on the Hamilton Townships 5th Youth Advisory Commission. The Commission will hold its first meeting on Monday, October 27th, at 6:00 p.m. in the Mayor's Conference Room, located at 2090 Greenwood Avenue.

"The community should know that Hamilton teens really care about their community and are enthusiastic about being involved and heard" said Gilmore. The Commission was established by a municipal ordinance in 1979, but was inactive for several years, Gilmore said. Gilmore reenacted the Commission four years ago when he became Mayor.

In September, the Mayor announced and asked that Hamilton residents between the ages of 13 and 19 who would like to serve on the commission, send him a letter of interest.

The Mayor's office received numerous letters for the Commission, which the ordinance allows for the appointment of 9-15 members who were reviewed by a screening committee.

In naming 15 members, Mayor Gilmore said that he wanted to create the greatest opportunity for students to serve. He also said that he would work to find other appointments for involvement for the other students.

"I'm looking forward to hearing the suggestions and concerns of our young residents. Members of this Youth Commission have been very active in helping in a number of community activities," said Gilmore.

Gilmore Promotes Brownfield to Greenfield Project for Patterson Avenue Landfill

New Recreational Facility and Park Sought for Closed Landfill Site

HAMILTON—Mayor Glen Gilmore today joined local, county and state officials to announce a proposed redevelopment of the Patterson Avenue Landfill into playing fields and a park along with the current landfill owner, Waste Management of New Jersey. Mayor Gilmore also lent his support to Public Question No. 2 on the November 4 ballot that will provide stable funding for brownfields remediation, which returns contaminated sites to productive use.

"This proposal to convert a former landfill into a productive recreation facility and park for township residents holds great promise,” said Mayor Gilmore. “Working with Waste Management to provide a first class facility will help meet community needs for football fields and open space.”

Hamilton Township is working with Waste Management of New Jersey to explore a private/public partnership to transform the closed Patterson Avenue Landfill into township-owned recreational fields and a surrounding public park with hiking trails, enhanced wetland areas, wildlife habitat, and environmental educational components.

"The McGreevey Administration has been a strong proponent of brownfield to greenfield projects to increase open space in already developed areas and protect our quality of life,” said New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bradley M. Campbell. “Restoring New Jersey's 10,000 brownfield sites where the landscapes have been blighted is a key component of the Governor's smart growth agenda."

The landfill redevelopment proposal between Hamilton Township and Waste Management of New Jersey includes the following elements:

• Developing an active recreation facility consisting of two football fields, one equipped with lights for nighttime games. The fields will include associated accessories, equipment and bleachers.

• Creating an environmental education center and hiking trails over the landfill and a portion of the wooded area to the north. Educational stations will be spaced along the trail to provide information to park users about ecology and wildlife. A trail connection to nearby Kuser Park is also planned, subject to the acquisition of additional land or appropriate easements.

• Enhancing upland areas, wetlands, and wildlife habitat throughout the property and in the low-lying area along the eastern edge of the site and at certain areas along the intermittent stream to the north of the site. This area will become an integral part of the environmental education center and will provide added habitat for wildlife. Professional biologists and botanists will prepare plans to enhance the wildlife habitat on the property, while still accomplishing the basic project redevelopment objectives.

The neighborhood around the Patterson Avenue Landfill consists of single- and multiple-family dwellings, vehicle service facilities, the Hamilton Township Department of Public Works maintenance facility, automotive scrap yards, waste hauling facilities, trucking companies, retail establishments, and vacant land.

This landfill operated in the 1970s, closing in 1979. It is capped with a cover that includes soil and vegetation, and is partially fenced. The landfill cover contains a series of storm water swales used for management of surface runoff.

Waste Management of New Jersey is working under a Memorandum of Agreement with DEP to complete the cleanup of the property. Waste Management of New Jersey is proposing to integrate the remediation plan and long-term operations, maintenance, and monitoring, including ground water monitoring, into the future recreational redevelopment of the property.

“Hamilton will benefit from a stable source of state funding for brownfield redevelopment that will spur investigation and cleanup of our old industrial and commercial sites for reuse, bringing jobs and economic growth to our town, while saving our remaining open space,” said Mayor Gilmore.

Public Question No. 2 on the November 4 ballot is a proposal to establish a long-term funding source to help clean up and redevelop contaminated or underutilized sites throughout New Jersey. The ballot proposal would expand the use of Corporate Business Tax revenues dedicated to the state's underground storage tank program, which has a current surplus of $100 million that cannot be fully used. The ballot proposal would allow the state to provide municipalities and businesses with loans and grants, using at least 50 percent of the existing $100 million surplus as well as future revenues, which generate a total of about $20 - 30 million each year.

Brownfield sites are properties that are, or may be, contaminated with hazardous substances and are either abandoned or sitting idle and underutilized.

MAYOR GILMORE ANNOUNCES $278,000 STATE GRANT FOR KLOCKNER/GEORGE DYE ROADS UPGRADE

(HAMILTON) - Hamilton Mayor Glen D. Gilmore announced today that Hamilton Township has successfully received a grant of $278,000 for road improvements for the intersection of Klockner and George Dye Roads. "This grant will make one of our busiest intersections safer and less congested," said the Mayor. He explained that the project "will widen Klockner Road so that a left turn lane can be constructed for cars turning onto George Dye Road."
"As part of the project, new striping and signage will also be added to enhance the safety of the intersection. The project will have the dual benefit of lessening congestion while improving safety," said the Mayor.
The Mayor noted that the improvement project is part of a "township-wide plan to improve safety and lessen congestion on our roadways." He pointed out that this grant follows several other traffic-related grants his administration has been successful in receiving, among them: $50,000 for Route 33 improvements, $150,000 for school zone safety improvements, $100,000 for an intersection improvement to intersections along Quakerbridge Road, and $150,000 grant for pedestrian safety improvements.
"This project represents another important step forward in improving roadway safety in the Township. It is also another example of a very successful partnership between the State and local government to upgrade our traffic infrastructure by bringing home more tax dollars to our community, said the mayor.

MAYOR GILMORE ANNOUNCES INSTALLATION OF TOWNSHIP-WIDE EMERGENCY TELEPHONE ALERT SYSTEM

(HAMILTON) – Hamilton Mayor Glen D. Gilmore announced today that Hamilton’s emergency preparedness arsenal now includes a computer-generated telephone communications system, commonly known as a “reverse 911 system,” which gives the Township the ability to telephone all of its residents, or a designated section of the Township, in the event of an emergency. “This tool will help us to notify a given neighborhood if a child is lost or to call all of our residents if there is a Township-wide emergency,” said the mayor.
Mayor Gilmore, who is an inaugural member of the League of Municipalities “Hometown Security Task Force,” said that Hamilton is one of only a handful of municipalities within the State with such a system. “Hamilton continues to set the standard for emergency preparedness,” said the mayor. The mayor, who has moderated and lectured at state-wide seminars on emergency preparedness, said that the system would allow the Township to call every household within the community within a matter of hours.
Said the Mayor, “This system also has provisions to communicate with homes where residents are hearing impaired.” Mayor Gilmore said that emergency responders have already received training on the system, and that testing of the system would be scheduled next week.

MAYOR GILMORE ANNOUNCES BMW DEALERSHIP TO LOCATE IN HAMILTON

(HAMILTON) - Hamilton Mayor Glen D. Gilmore announced today BMW may soon be added to the list of businesses along Quakerbridge Road in Hamilton. "I'm pleased to report that I met today with Denise E. Wood, President of Princeton BMW, who expressed interest in building a BMW sales office and showroom along Quakerbridge Road, across the road from the Mercadian Group office site. This will be a very positive addition to our community," said the Mayor.
Said Ms. Wood, "We are very excited about becoming a member of the Hamilton business community. It's a dynamic community with a great future."
Mayor Gilmore noted that plans call for an impressive 50,000 square foot office and showcase room, bringing about fifty new jobs to the community. Said the Mayor, "This project will bring a new use to a site that used to be the home of a trucking maintenance facility. This will bring a high-end use with less traffic than most other uses, and add to Hamilton's reputation as a destination community."
The mayor said that BMW plans to submit an application for its project next month.

MAYOR GILMORE ANNOUNCES CONTINUED REVITALIZATION OF SHADY BROOK PARK

(HAMILTON) - "The planting of cherry and magnolia trees are just the latest improvement to take place at Shady Brook Park," announced Hamilton Mayor Glen D. Gilmore. "The trees, along with other plantings, are being installed this week at no cost to the Township, as the result of a grant we submitted in December of 2001," said the Mayor. The $79,000 grant, through the State Department of Environmental Protection, similar to one received for Martin's Lake in Veterans' Park, aims to improve the quality of the park's lake through the planting of native vegetation.
Mayor Gilmore noted that last year the Township created a new walkway entrance into the park, off of Field Avenue, which is located next to Wilson Middle School. "I wanted to turn what had been a mud path littered with garbage into a garden walkway for the many kids who cut through the park on their way to and from school," said the Mayor. "To accomplish this, we tore down an abandoned home adjacent to the entrance, and planted numerous shrubs and flowering trees along a new stone walkway," explained the Mayor. This most recent grant will help us make a dramatic improvement to the appearance of the park and the health of the lake," said Gilmore.
The Mayor added that the variety of plantings will have the "dual benefit" of "reducing Canadian geese at the site, while at the same time attracting a larger variety of native birds and other wildlife."

***EVENT ADVISORY***

MAYOR GILMORE TO DROP PUCK FOR HOCKEY SEASON START

(HAMILTON) - Mayor Glen D. Gilmore will be "dropping the puck" to initiate the fall men's league hockey season at the Veteran's Park hockey rink this Sunday, October 5 at 10:00 AM. The league was created last year after Mayor Gilmore completed the building of the street hockey rink as part of the Keagan skate park facility near the Kuser Road entrance to the park. "This league is a demonstration of how the new skate park has increased recreational opportunities for Hamilton residents," said Mayor Gilmore, "Nearly 200 adults participate in this league which is only in it's second year of operation."
The Mayor observed that, "Clearly the skate park has been a resounding success. Far from being a kids-only facility, the Keagan Complex also provides a first-rate street hockey rink for all ages."

MAYOR GILMORE TO DEDICATE NEW RAILROAD AT SENIOR CENTER

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen D. Gilmore will join Eagle Scout Andrew Thompson, 17, member of Troop #91 of the Boy Scouts of America for a "golden spike" ceremony dedicating the new model railroad layout designed and built by Andrew for the Hamilton Senior Center on Cypress Road. Festivities begin at 3:15 on Monday, October 6 at the Senior Center.
"Andrew approached the township last March with a proposal for building a model train track for the senior center as part of his requirements to be eligible for candidacy as an Eagle Scout. He took the initiative to develop a plan, obtain donations, recruit volunteers and organize work parties to complete the project."
"He along with Troop #91 and Scout Master, Terry McCarty have successfully completed this project that should provide hours of enjoyment to model train enthusiasts."
The new HO scale railroad will be presented to the Mayor at a ceremony on Monday, October 6 at 3:15PM in the Bocce Court area of the Senior Center.

MAYOR GILMORE BRINGS HARRY POTTER TO HAMILTON

(HAMILTON) -- Hogwarts comes to Hamilton's Veterans Park this Friday night as Mayor Glen D. Gilmore presents this week's Movie in the Park, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. The Mayor also announced that a special treat for this showing will be a Harry Potter Look-a-Like contest starting at 6:00 PM. "We've made sure that there are no mountain trolls lurking in the park, so come on out for the fun of a free first-rate movie and a contest with prizes," said the Mayor.
The look-a-like contest begins at 6PM with the movie beginning at 7:00PM on the lawn near the Abbott House at the Kuser Road entrance to Veterans Park. In addition to the free movie there will also be free popcorn and bottled water.
Movies in the Park are the latest innovation to park activities introduced by Mayor Gilmore. Earlier this summer he started a summer crafts and reading program that brought children to various parks around the township for a book reading followed by a free crafts activity tailored to the book being read.

*** EVENT ADVISORY ***

MAYOR GILMORE ANNOUNCES SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION TOUR SLATED FOR HAMILTON BUSINESSES

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen D. Gilmore will be joined by New Jersey District Small Business Administration Director James A. Kocsi for a walking tour of small Hamilton businesses designed to familiarize area businesspersons with programs offered by the federal Small Business Administration on Tuesday, September 30 from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The Tour is being arranged through the Township's Department of Technology and Economic Development. "The Small Business Administration has a host of programs to help nurture growth in small businesses in Hamilton," said Mayor Gilmore, "Today's tour helps us to get that information out to business owners while also making federal program administrators more familiar with our area."
Accompanying Mayor Gilmore and Director Kosci will be representatives from the New Jersey Small Business Development Center and the Service Corps of Retired Executives. Area business owners received written invitations to join the tour which will include stops at Ice Cap, Inc., Walsh Trading Company, The Mount Ritter Group and Carpets Professionally Restored.
"This year is the 50th anniversary of the Small Business Administration," noted Mayor Gilmore, "Since 1953, this agency has provided billions of dollars of aid and loans that has created over 6 million jobs nationwide."
For information on participating in the program business owners are encouraged to call 890-3519.

EVENT ADVISORY

WHO: MAYOR GLEN D. GILMORE

WHAT: RUBY TUESDAY RESTAURANT

WHEN: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2003
11:00 A.M.

WHERE: THE HAMILTON MARKET PLACE,
ROUTE 130

MAYOR GILMORE TO CUT RIBBON ON NEW RUBY TUESDAY RESTAURANT

(HAMILTON) -- It was a blinding snowstorm last April when Mayor Gilmore helped to break ground for the new Ruby Tuesday Restaurant in the Hamilton Marketplace, but the weather promises to be much milder tomorrow when he cuts the ribbon to officially open the brand new eatery. "This is another milestone for the Hamilton Marketplace," stated the Mayor, "Ruby Tuesday is a major player in the national restaurant field and we are glad to have them choose Hamilton Township to site their new restaurant."
"Hamilton residents are delighted by the shopping and dining opportunities that the Marketplace presents, said the Mayor, "Ruby Tuesday is the second food establishment to open at the Marketplace and it promises to be as wildly successful as the Crackerbarrel which opened earlier this year.
"By any measure, the Marketplace continues to be a success. Shoppers from Hamilton and around the region have been flocking to this shopping mecca along Rt#130 and there is still much more to come," observed the Mayor.

Ruby Tuesday, Inc is a publicly-owned company with more than 500 company owned and franchise locations throughout the United States and around the world. Founded in 1972, the company has seen dramatic growth in recent years, with franchise growth of 157 locations in just four years.
Mayor Gilmore noted that Ruby Tuesday fits well with his vision of the new Marketplace, "It is important to me that we have more than just fast food outlets in the new mall. We were also searching for the type of family dining experience that Ruby Tuesday represents."
The company's web site describes its restaurants as being a "casual and fun atmosphere created with artifacts and antiques, polished brass, tiffany style lamps and warm, living colors." Menu choices include a signature salad bar, steaks, baby back ribs and a full range of platters.

MAYOR GILMORE SWEARS IN 5 NEW POLICE PATROL OFFICERS

(HAMILTON) - Mayor Glen D. Gilmore was joined by Police Chief James Collins to introduce five new police hires and their families at an oath taking ceremony at Township Hall on Friday.
In welcoming the officers, Mayor Gilmore noted that, "We have been very successful in reducing Hamilton's crime rate during the past three years. These new officers will be an important part of making our neighborhoods even safer."
The new officers are Thomas Wilson Jr., Benjamin J. Rivera, James B. Udijohn, Michael P. Kane, and Richard Liedtka. Mayor Gilmore has added eight new police positions since taking office and has requested two additional positions in the 2004 Township budget.
"No police in Hamilton's history have gone into the field better equipped than our officers do now," the Mayor also noted, "We have modernized the patrol car fleet, provided every officer with a personally assigned police radio for the first time, provided every officer with a bullet resistant vest and increased the amount of safety equipment in patrol vehicles." The Mayor also said, "Add to that better procedures and better training, and you begin to see why Hamilton is becoming so successful at fighting crime."

MAYOR GILMORE SEEKS TEENS FOR YOUTH ADVISORY COMMISSION

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen Gilmore is accepting letters of applications for his fifth Youth Advisory Commission. Mayor Gilmore reactivated this commission in March 2000.
"The future of Hamilton depends on how well we, as a community, tend to the needs and hopes of our young people. This commission provides an opportunity for our young to form policies and initiatives that will help shape our Township", Gilmore said.
The ordinance that set up the commission calls for a panel of nine to fifteen youngsters, between the ages of 13 and 19. "Our young citizens have many good ideas and this commission gives them a voice and a vehicle for change," said the Mayor. Applications in the form of a brief letter of interest are now being accepted by the Mayor. The applications will be screened by a committee. Each member will serve a one-year term. The commission will meet twice a month except for the months of July and August. Applications are due at the Mayor's office no later than October 8th. The first meeting of the new members will be on Monday, October 27th. Applications should be sent to 2090 Greenwood Avenue, PO Box 00150, Hamilton, NJ 08650-0150.

MAYOR GILMORE CALLS MEETING OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT GROUP FOR ISABEL PREP

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen D. Gilmore has scheduled a meeting of the Township Emergency Management team tomorrow to review preparations in anticipation of hurricane Isabel passing through the area late Thursday. "I want to make sure that all our
emergency management resources are fine-tuned and ready to address any emergency associated with this storm," said the Mayor. "Hopefully, we won't need them, but I want to be sure they are ready if we do."
"We are monitoring the storm's progress and it is expected to reach our area late Thursday or early Friday," noted the Mayor, "We don't yet know how serious it will be, but our objective is to be ready for anything."
In the event of an emergency, residents should be ready to tune into area television and radio stations to receive the latest in storm information.

MAYOR GILMORE LEADS NJ ECONOMIC PANEL

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen D. Gilmore led a panel discussion on attracting growth industries to New Jersey communities as part of the New Jersey 2d Annual Economic Development Conference in East Brunswick. Mayor Gilmore, who was recently named to head up the New Jersey League of Municipalities' state-wide Economic Development Task Force, served as moderator for some of the state's foremost economic development experts in a discussion of identifying growth industries and attracting them to a local community. "As the economic climate changes, so do opportunities for local communities to attract the industries that bring jobs and ratables," said the Mayor, "This conference gave local leaders the tools they need to recognize and react to those trends."
The Mayor noted that Hamilton has been remarkably successful in the past three years in attracting new businesses, "A major Verizon facility, high-tech corporate headquarters and dramatic retail growth have all come about because I have worked to attract businesses that are looking for places to expand or grow."
The Mayor also highlighted another area of growth for the Township. "Even in the office space market, Hamilton has one of the highest occupancy rates in Mercer County, even higher than along the Route #1 corridor."

On the panel with Mayor Gilmore was Maxine Ballen, President of the New Jersey Technology Council; Tracy Challenger, President, The Agora Coalition; Dolcy Chaplin, Esq., Director, Defense Procurement Technical Center; Luis Fernandez, Principal, Imperial Construction Group, Inc.; Debbie Hart, President Biotechnology Council of New Jersey; Gualberto Medina, Director, Technology Enterprise Group; Cushman and Wakefield;and, Robert Silverman, President, Gross and Associates.
"This exciting panel of professionals are the best in the state to discuss what industries are poised for growth and what a municipality can do to benefit from their expansion."

MAYOR GILMORE FREE MOVIES IN THE PARK ATTRACT 2500

(HAMILTON) -- The smell of popcorn was in the air as Hamilton had a wildly successful debut of Mayor Gilmore's new Free Movies in the Park program on Friday night. Over 2500 people camped out on the lawn in front of the Abbott House in Veterans Park to watch the feature film Scooby Doo and to enjoy the seasonably warm temperatures. "Opening night was everything we could have hoped for and more," said the Mayor, "This weekend should be even bigger."
Every Friday night through September, a major Hollywood production will be shown starting at 7PM on a giant outdoor screen near the Abbot House in Veterans Park. Residents should come early and bring their lawn chairs or blankets for a place on the lawn. Free popcorn completes the experience.
In addition to Scooby Doo, the Mayor announced plans to show Shrek on the 12th, E.T. on the 19th and Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory on the 26th. The movies are free of charge and live characters from the movies will be on hand to entertain young and old alike.
Movies in the Park is the latest innovation to park activities introduced by Mayor Gilmore. Earlier this summer he started a summer crafts and reading program that brought children to various parks around the township for a book reading followed by a free crafts activity tailored to the book being read.

MAYOR GILMORE ASKS COUNTY AID FOR KLOCKNER WOODS PRESERVATION

(HAMILTON) -- In an example of hands-on government last night, Mayor Glen D. Gilmore personally filled out and submitted an application to the Mercer County Open Space Preservation Board for assistance in preserving the Klockner Woods property as open space. "While attending the Board meeting to discuss the County's promise in 1999 to purchase the Braghelli tract, I also informed the board of our goal of preserving the Klockner Woods as well," said the Mayor, "I asked for an aid application, filled it in, ordered my staff to provide any additional the information needed to process the request and submitted it to the Board on the spot."
"This grant could mean $150,000 toward the final purchase price of preserving Klockner," explained the Mayor, "It's not the whole answer, but combined with active negotiations at the state level, it is a big step forward."
Mayor Gilmore stated that the township has already taken steps to preserve the 90 acre property along Klockner road that is threatened by development into a residential complex. "I have personally spoken to developers who are looking to develop 40 acres of the parcel to express our interest in purchasing Klockner Woods. We have been meeting with the state to secure funding. I also previously directed that we begin the two appraisals needed to obtain state funding."
"Although the developer pulled their application from consideration by the township planning Board in June, there is still a very real threat to this property that I am working to avert," the Mayor cautioned, "The residents of the Klockner Woods area have banded together and made it clear that this property needs to be preserved. I have already seen to it that the property is included in the Hamilton Open Space Plans and now the township is actively working to make its preservation a reality.
The grant application was submitted for consideration at the next meeting of the open space Board in October. "In the meantime, we will be compiling the appropriate documentation to support our application and submitting it to the Board also," noted the Mayor.
"Hamilton residents have been paying over a million dollars a year into the County open space fund," concluded the Mayor, "This grant is one way to ensure that more is spent to preserve Hamilton open space."

--MEDIA ADVISORY: TODAY -
HAMILTON MAYOR GILMORE TEAMS WITH FREEHOLDER HUGHES
CALLING FOR ACTION ON EXPANSION OF VETERANS PARK

(HAMILTON) -- Hamilton Mayor Gary Gilmore will team with Mercer County Freeholder Brian M. Hughes, Democratic candidate for Mercer County Executive, this afternoon at a 2 p.m. press conference to discuss the future of expanding Veterans Park.
The press conference will be 2 p.m. TODAY, September 2, 2003 at the Kuser Road entrance to Veterans Park, Hamilton.
Over four years ago, County administration said expanding existing facilities was one of the goals of the county's preservation plan. They also said the proposal was in keeping with his promise that preservation projects in the eastern section of the county would be a priority. Up to this point, no action has taken place regarding acquiring the property.
Hughes said inaction regarding the purchase of the Braghelli Tract has left the county vulnerable to the loss of this precious resource and open to further undesirable development in the area.
The Mercer County Open Space Preservation Board approved the acquisition of the 85-acre farm adjoiningVeterans Park in 1999. The property -- the Braghelli farm -- is located on Kuser Road on the eastern side of the park, between the Ravenscroft and Briarwood developments.
Veteran's Park is a 333-acre site enjoyed by thousands of Hamilton residents and visitors each year. Hamilton parks are frequently seen as among the state's best municipal park systems.

MAYOR GILMORE DECLARES SEPTEMBER AS PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH IN HAMILTON TOWNSHIP

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen D. Gilmore today announced that Hamilton Township is promoting the importance of prostate cancer screening for men by proclaiming September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in Hamilton.
"Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed nonskin cancer among men in America," said the Mayor, "Knowing about the risks of the disease and how it can be detected should be part of every man's health knowledge."
Mayor Gilmore urged men to take responsibility for their prostate health by talking to their health care provider to learn more about the disease and, when appropriate, to get screened.
"Prostate cancer is not just a man's disease," Mayor Gilmore noted, "Its effect on families is also devastating. One quarter of prostate cancer cases are found in men under 65 during their prime working years. The impact on wives and children can be just as heartbreaking as the disease itself."
The Mayor said that in Hamilton, "We have recognized the importance of prostate cancer screening by urging all male township employees to have the test done and we have allowed them to schedule their test during working hours."
"There is no better time than Prostate Cancer Awareness Month for Hamilton Township men to talk with their health care providers about this disease so that they can make informed decisions about maintaining their prostate health."

MAYOR GILMORE ANNOUNCES FORESTRY MANAGEMENT PLAN GRANT

(HAMILTON) -- Mayor Glen D. Gilmore today announced that Hamilton Township has received a $2,000 grant from the state Department of Environmental Protection for the preparation of a municipal forestry management plan. The grant will be used to assist the recently created Municipal Shade Tree Commission to create a township-wide plan for preserving existing tree stock and encouraging future growth.
"This grant will enable us to maximize our resources when it comes to keeping Hamilton green," said Mayor Gilmore. "When it is integrated with the recently created open space plan for the township, it will provide a blueprint for future tree planting and preservation in Hamilton.
"Since taking office, I have planted hundreds of new trees throughout Hamilton and most of them have been purchased using grant money I secured from the state government. A forestry plan will increase our ability to attract more grant money and expand the tree-planting program even further."

MAYOR GILMORE OUTLINES WEST NILE VIRUS ACTIONS IN WAKE OF FIRST CONFIRMED VICTIM
81 YEAR OLD HAMILTONIAN RAPIDLY IMPROVING

(HAMILTON TWP., MERCER COUNTY, NJ) - Mayor Glen D. Gilmore today moved quickly to take steps in response to news that a 81 year old Hamilton man is the third individual to contract the West Nile Virus in New Jersey this year. "Preexisting plans to respond to an outbreak and provide additional public information are being activated," the said the Mayor "We will also be working with state and county authorities to focus efforts to monitor and react to the disease."
The Mayor noted that the township was notified today at 3 PM by state health officials that an 81 year-old township man under care at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital was confirmed to have the disease. The individual, who had been admitted August 13, is responding favorably to treatment and is said to be "rapidly improving."

The Mayor also said that, concurrently with the report of the first human victim, the township has just received word that three crows had tested positive for the disease as well. Each of the neighborhoods where evidence of West Nile has been found is receiving immediate attention from county and municipal health officials.
The Mayor said that, "All Hamilton residents should take responsible action to become familiar with the signs of this disease and what they can do to help prevent infection." "The danger is serious," he added "Everyone needs to understand the risk and take every possible precaution."
"Most people bitten by infected mosquitoes may not develop any symptoms or very mild symptoms such as fever, headaches, body aches, skin rashes, and swollen Lymph nodes. More severe infections may have symptoms such as head aches, high fever, stiff neck, muscle weakness, disorientation, coma, tremors and in rare cases, death. If any symptoms are present, they usually occur 5-15 days after being bitten and medical attention should be sought.

HOT LINE ESTABLISHED

The Mayor said "A first step has been to set up a special Township Health Department hotline to take West Nile inquiries. Residents may call 890-3884 to receive answers to their questions and concerns. The line will be in operation from 8:30 to 4:30 weekdays."

ADDITIONAL TESTING AND PREVENTION SLATED TO BEGIN TONIGHT
Beginning this evening, County and Hamilton Health Officials will be in neighborhoods with signs of West Nile to identify potential breeding areas and to apply the appropriate preventative steps to combat the mosquitoes. This will include addition