I'm sorry that I have not updated my blog in a while. Between wireless home networking with Verizon DSL problems and life in general, I haven't had much time to log on here to update.

By the way, If you have ever have any questions about anything that needs to be answered, please email me. I know I've been lacking at that too, but I will improve.

One thing that I want to address is a letter to the editor in The Express-Times today. To be fair to the author, I'll post her letter...

Alpha residents must save pool

As a former member of the Alpha Pool Committee I would like to thank Klara Tarsi for her knowledge and dedication when she served for approximately six years as director of the pool. Working with Klara and with the help of so many pool supporters, the pool was able to raise $13,000 with fund raisers in 2003. As you might recall the pool did not open in 2002 because of repairs. It reopened in May 2003. The season was cool and not the best for swimming, but the pool was beautiful.

With this in mind Mayor Harry Zikas Jr. was kind enough to meet with four members of the pool committee on Dec. 10. At that time we asked him to consider giving Klara the pool again at least for another year. The mayor told us at that time that not to give it to Klara would be an injustice to her and the community. He even asked us who we would suggest to be her deputy. We said it didn't matter as long as it was someone in favor of the pool.

Well, somewhere along the line the mayor changed his mind and gave the pool to Councilman Michael Savary with Klara as his deputy -- a deputy who by the way has not been invited to any meetings concerning the pool such as pool rates and leasing the snack bar. You figure that one out.

I hope the people of Phillipsburg realize how very fortunate they are to have town representatives who care enough to call organizations for donations, and be grateful to Warren Hospital for the help they are receiving.

Many people in Alpha don't realize what a gold mine we have in this town. Not only do we have a beautiful pool, but we have a beautiful park and playground as well. Please fight to save it.

MARY BOLASH
Alpha

Ok, now my side. I would have written to the paper myself, but you are only allowed one letter every 30 days and I wrote a response to Guy Pierfy's letter already. Anyway, I did meet with Mrs. Bolash and 3 other volunteers. I did say that Klara Tarsi was an asset to the pool, but I never promised them that I would appoint her. I did appoint a pro-pool advocate in Councilwoman Esther Kutzman, who has since resigned. Well, since Councilman Mike Savary is the Council President and the Council President is responsible for filling all vacancies, he happened to become Director of Public Property and therefore, in charge of the pool. Councilman Savary is working very hard with the other councilmembers on the pool committee to re-open the pool this summer. We are in the process of securing our lifeguards, concession stand vendor and restructuring admission prices. The pool will re-open this year, but unfortunately because of change (it's bound to happen) or call it sour grapes, a few volunteers have decided to hang up their collection plates. It's unfortunate and yes, these people have helped us, but I'm sure there are others out there who are willing to step up to the plate and make this season even better than last year!

Thanks for listening!