Week in Review: Burglars, Hearings... Cub Scouts?

While many of us may be trying to steal a day at the Shore any chance we get, it appears thieves aren't taking a summer break, as we learned this week.

Cat burglars targeting homes along the border of Wyckoff and Franklin Lakes struck again recently, sneaking into four homes in one night as residents slept. As was the case in prior burglaries, the thieves' stealth allowed them to escape undetected, leaving police without a description of the person or group that is targeting residents.

Although authorities can't say with certainty, the cat burglars who struck recently may be the same thieves who went on a spree in May. Regardless, the M.O. is the same, and local authorities are asking residents to take steps to protect themselves while they work together to bring the burglars to justice.

Other items of note this week:

• Christian Health Care Center cleared one hurdle in its quest to gain approvals to build a 258-unit senior living complex called the Vista.

Representatives earned the recommendation of the Design Review Board, which was the first stop on a municipal tour that will take them to the Shade Tree Commission and ultimately, the zoning Board of Adjustment. Design Review was pleased with the residential feel of the complex, although the board will pass along concerns about the building's size.

• The Wyckoff Public Library Board of Trustees moved closer to the start of its $4 million expansion project, with the selection of a construction manager to oversee the day-to-day aspects of the job. The board soon expects to hire a contractor to complete the work, which will be accomplished quicker if the library manages to rent space off-site while crews build.
• Join the crowd: Wyckoff learned its among exactly half of New Jersey municipalities pursuing Sustainable Jersey certification, which could earn the township grant monies.
• Planned work at the intersection of Main Street and Franklin Avenue that would have impacted traffic down to Godwin Avenue was delayed this week. But motorists only got a temporary reprieve; the job is expected to be completed this Tuesday. Anticipate delays down the busy thoroughfare.
• The Ramapo Indian Hills School District learned it will have to wait until after the start of the school year to learn the fate of a conduct policy that an administrative law judge has said is unconstitutional. The policy, which allows the district to suspend students from activities for off-campus drug and alcohol troubles, will ultimately be decided by education Commissioner Bret Schundler, who got an extension on his ruling.
• We also took a look at how municipalities throughout northern New Jersey plan to deal with the 2 percent property tax kit, with most waiting to see how other related legislation pans out. One of those proposals, which would give school boards more power during contentious teacher union negotiations, also was spotlighted, as Wyckoff teachers go into the last year of their current contract.
• On a lighter note, videographer Nilsa De La Cruz paid a visit to the annual Cub Scout Carnival, sponsored by Pack 309. Take a look as pack leader Wayne Wharton talks about some of the activities of the Scouts.
• Also, we went Grocery Shopping With Gloria (twice!) as columnist Gloria Johnson took a look at modern TV dinners, as well as their dubious distinction as a dietary aide.
• Writer Tom Duch checked in with Wyckoff native Shooter Hunt, a former star Ramapo High School pitcher. Hunt is currently working his arm in the minor leagues as a member of the Minnesota Twins organization, trying to get himself ready for a call-up to the big leagues.
• Nina Minichetti also talked to Sandy Phillips, a resident who turned her love of crafting into a business. Personal Touches by Sandy can be found online as well as in area shops and major department stores.
• Finally, we took a visit to Spring Lake, where the Wyckoff Family YMCA sponsored the second in its series of summer concerts with a performance by The Kootz.

As always, if you have an idea, a tip or just want to chat, contact me at 201-208-3349 or nick@patch.com.