Community Corner

South Brunswick Considering Wall of Fame

Township looking for way to honor residents who have provided exceptional service to South Brunswick.

In a township where volunteer work has been such a vital aspect embodying the fabric of the community, the township is discussing a new way to honor those who serve South Brunswick.

At last week's meeting, the Township Council held discussions for establishing a Wall of Fame in the Municipal Building on Ridge Road to recognize the work of residents who have performed outstanding volunteer work throughout the history of South Brunswick.

"This is a conversation that grew out of a discussion at the Transportation Advisory Committee as they were kicking around ideas to honor citizens of the municipality, particularly (late VFW Post 9111 Commander) Al Kady," said Township Attorney Don Sears during the meeting. "We want to see if we can honor residents for their service."

Kady, who died this past May, served as a commander and member of VFW Post 9111, American Legion Post 401, and was also chair of the South Brunswick Transportation Committee. In his service, Kady also performed volunteer work preserving the grave site of a Civil War veteran whose grave was discovered in South Brunswick.

Kady was previously honored with a key to the township.

"Upon the death of Al Kady, (the Transportation Advisory Committee) wanted to acknowledge him in some way by maybe starting a wall of fame," said Councilman Joseph Camarota. "We've had that discussion loosely over the past couple of years."

Camarota noted that an independent volunteer group would need to be established to research worthy recipients, while also deciding upon the criteria for honorees. 

"I don't know if we want to do this, but the goal is how do you honor someone who has dedicated, in Al Kady's case, his whole life here to contribute to the betterment of the community," Camarota added. "Maybe that's something we need to establish."

Council members said the plan needs be reexamined by the appropriate township committee to determine the feasibility of a South Brunswick Wall of Fame moving forward. One of the challenges to be addressed, Deputy Mayor Chris Killmurray noted, is that there are hundreds of people deserving of the honor right off the bat.

"There are many people in this township who have worked long and hard in town so to do the research to give everybody the proper respect they deserve would be difficult," said Mayor Frank Gambatese.

Who would you like to see honored on a South Brunswick Wall of Fame? Share your thoughts in the comments section.


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