Letter to the Editor: Mayor Thanks Those Who Paid Tribute to Veterans

The 3rd annual Valentine’s Day with a Veteran dinner, held on February 11th, was greatly enjoyed by 50 veterans from Lyons Veteran’s Hospital. The night would not have been possible without the generosity and cooperation of so many, and I want to take this opportunity to thank all involved.

The veterans dined on delicious food donated and prepared by Dairy Queen (Plainfield), Flannery’s (Fanwood), and the following Scotch Plains restaurants: Florence Ravioli, Grillestone, Hung’s Dynasty, John’s Meat Market, Maria’s, Popeye’s, Portusa BBQ, Scotchwood Diner, Snuffy’s, Stage House, and Swiss Pastry Shoppe.

Bags filled with health and beauty aids and exciting raffle prizes made the veteran’s night even more enjoyable, and were provided through the funding from Wakefern, Central Jersey Business Network, Scotch Plains VFW, Scotch Plains American Legion, and Scotch Plains Sons of the American Legion.

Special thanks to Congressman Leonard Lance, who shared words of encouragement when he stopped by on his way home after a long week in Washington, and to Lt. Col. Edward Chrystal for his thoughtful words and caring contribution to this event.

I appreciate the efforts of Girl Scout Troops 618 and 88 and various local veterans who came out to show their support. Many thanks to Rev. Kevin Brennan and Mike Epps of Evangel Church for providing a venue for the event, complete with set-up and clean-up.

Finally, this event could not have happened if not for the efforts of the Community Relations Committee: Irene Bartels, Steve Goldberg, Maureen LaCosta, Sal Trifiro, and the chair, Jennifer Power, whose outstanding effort and enthusiasm made the organization of this event so much easier. My heartfelt thanks goes out to all for helping to make this a night where these veterans truly felt our appreciation for their service to our country.

Nancy Malool,

Mayor, Scotch Plains