Liberty Corner Holds Own Appreciation Dinner After Town Uninvites Them

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — The Liberty Corner First Aid Squad(LCFAS) had its own First Responders Recognition Dinner on Oct. 19 after Bernards Township un-invited them to the annual Volunteer Appreciation Night.

"The purpose was to honor our members for their service," said LCFAS President Dave "Phil" Lai-Len to Patch.

The squad had previously received a letter from Bernards Township Administrator Pat Monaco stating:

RE: First Responders Appreciation Night – October 27, 2022

Liberty Corner First Aid Squad President & members,

Please be advised, having informed the Bernards Township Committee as of September 5, 2022, that the Liberty Corner First Aid Squad ceased performing emergency response services. You and present members are no longer invited to the Volunteer Appreciation Night on October 27, 2022.

Sincerely,
Pat Monaco

Tensions between Bernards Township and the LCFAS began brewing over the summer after the squad ceased operations in September due to a lack of volunteers. Read More: Liberty Corner First Aid Squad Halts Operation After 57 Years

After this action was taken, there has been a disagreement between both sides on what actually transpired and the squad's remaining assets. As a result, the township committee voted unanimously at the Oct. 11 meeting on a resolution to authorize the "Township Attorney to pursue litigation, and all other means, against LCFAS." Read More: Rescue Squad Supporters Criticize Township's Decision To Seize Assets

Township Committee members have contended that it was the squad's decision to disband and that the legal proceedings are to help fund efforts to keep residents safe. Squad members instead say they were "pushed" out and just want a chance to rebuild. Read More: Tensions Rise In Basking Ridge: Rescue Squad, Township At Odds

Lai-Len said even if the township invited the squad back to the annual Volunteer Appreciation Night coming up on Thursday he didn't think anyone would go.

"I don't think anyone of us would even go if they invited us," said Lai-Len.

During the LCFAS dinner this past Wednesday, volunteer members were provided with a free lasagna dinner with cookies by Debbie"The Lasagna Lady" Cocino from lasagnalove.org.

JT's Confections also provided chocolates and various donors provided gift cards to thank the squad members for their service.

Charlotte Flohl was also given a certificate to recognize her 47 years of service to the Liberty Corner First Aid Squad.

Lai-Len is currently selling hats and signs on his own with the statement "Save The Liberty Corner First Aid Squad in support of the LCFAS' fight with the township. Those looking for a lawn sign or hat can email president@lcfas.org.

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