Page 4 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • February 25, 2009 Ho-Ho-Kus Chief pleased with department’s motorcycle unit by Jennifer Crusco In the spring of 2005, Ho-Ho-Kus Police Officer Pete Tiernan proposed the addition of a motorcycle unit to the department’s fleet of traditional police vehicles. That November, borough residents Robert Verkerk and Nancy Volek Verkerk donated a Harley-Davidson motorcycle to the department, and local traffic control had a new element of stealth. Four years and approximately 10,000 miles later, HoHo-Kus Police Chief Gregory Kallenberg reports that the motorcycle unit has been a worthwhile pursuit. “We couldn’t be happier with it. It has been a great addition to the department, and we use it whenever possible,” the chief said. The motorcycle is used for regular patrol duty and for traffic control. “It is very cost effective, and low maintenance,” Kallenberg added. He said fees for oil changes, tune-ups, gas, and tires are all notably lower than they are for a standard police car. Officer Tiernan added, “It has been a great tool, and it makes a good impression.” He pointed to the praise he receives from the community, and noted that the vehicle is excellent for public relations. Tiernan noted that he now uses a hand-held radar gun on patrol, but the department plans to purchase the same equipment currently used in the police cars. (continued on page 15) Helpful Hints Helpful Hints from ome “When using the dishwasher, wash only full loads and let them air-dry. Open the door after the final rinse will help the dishes dry faster”. 27 Franklin Tpk, Waldwick Open Sundays 9-3 201-652-5666 Patrolman LaCroix investigated a one-vehicle accident on Normandy Court on Feb. 3. No injuries were reported. The same day, while on routine patrol and performing random registration checks, Patrolman Balestrieri learned that one of the drivers had a revoked license. He stopped the vehicle, and issued summonses and a court date to the driver. On Feb. 6, Ptl. Balestrieri investigated a two vehicle accident on Brandywine Road. No injuries were reported. Patrolman McBain investigated a one vehicle accident on North Franklin Turnpike on Feb. 10. He learned that the driver’s license had been suspended and that the individual has a medical history that may have resulted in the Ho-Ho-Kus Police Department Report accident. Summonses were issued. On Feb. 12, Ptl. LaCroix investigated a one vehicle accident on East Saddle River Road. No injuries were reported. Also on Feb. 12, while performing stationary radar on North Franklin Turnpike, Ptl. Balestrieri observed a vehicle traveling down the hill from the train lot toward Franklin Turnpike. As he watched, the vehicle proceeded through the stop sign at the intersection of Warren Avenue and Franklin Turnpike. When he stopped the vehicle and spoke with the driver, he detected a strong smell of an alcoholic beverage. The driver failed field sobriety tests and a Breathalyzer test. The driver was given summonses and a mandatory court date. Mary Says... ® REGISTER NOW! GOOD FUN, IN GOOD HANDS! RIDGEWOOD YMCA DAY CAMP 2009 Y’s KIDZ 3–6 PAMACKA 5 – 13 TEEN TRIP 11 – 15 Safe, affordable. Call for FREE brochure and scholarship application. Pre-Summer Fun Ages 5-10 June 22-26 9am-5pm •sports • swimming• cooking • art projects • field trips • CATCH Kids Club Ridgewood YMCA www.ridgewoodymca.org 201-444-5600, ext. 338 Membership is open to all. For individuals and families in need, contact John Duke ext 337 for confidential assistance information and application.