James Sandelier Retirement
The ADVERTISER, Franklinville, N.J. - Thursday, January 26, 1978

Sylvester article Testimonial Honors Retirement Of Police Sgt. James Sandelier

Clayton--More than 200 people attended a testimonial dinner on Saturday night at Edwards Carriage House here to honor Sgt. James Sandelier of the Clayton Police Department. Former Mayor Joseph Alexander served as master of ceremonies.

A delicious buffet dinner was prepared and served in the Hut by Marty and Barb Kolsun.

Sgt. Sandelier, a member of the police department for 23 years, was forced into retirement as the result of illness.

In his remarks, Alexander said: "I wish to express my sincere thanks to all of you who have come here tonight to honor a faithful and dedicated municipal employee...Sgt. Jim Sandelier of the Clayton Police Department.

"Jim over the years, through his dedication and compassion for people, has built a reputation as a good police officer, but more than that, a reputation as a nice guy," Alexander added.

The speaker continued, "Jim, in his capacity as a police officer, has helped numerous people in the community and his first impulse was to help, not to punish; however, when force was necessary, he used only enough to accomplish the job."

Alexander added, "Jim's career as a police officer was suddenly terminated through no fault of his own. His disability, God forbid, could strike any one of us. So rather than to say thanks Jim, good-bye and good luck, we as Borough officials, along with the Clayton Police Department, decided to show our appreciation for his years of dedicated service by sponsoring this testimonial dinner. The crowd here tonight offers living testimony to Sgt. Jim Sandelier and how the people of Clayton feel about him."

Alexander concluded: "Jim, the Borough of Clayton is extremely grateful for your many years of dedicated service and we are wishing you a long and happy retirement. Jim, thanks again from the people of Clayton."

Other speakers included Police Chief Fred Pfrommer who recalled the early days of the police department in the borough when the local police force was made up [of] a small number of men and parttime specials.

Sgt. Sandelier, Pfrommer recalled, began his career in 1954 as a special officer and in 1958 was appointed a full-time patrolman. Later Sandelier was promoted to Sergeant.

Chief Pfrommer praised Sgt. Sandelier for his excellence as a police officer and on behalf of the Clayton Police Department presented the honored guest with a plaque inscribed with these words: "To Sgt. James Sandelier. In appreciation of 23 years of dedicated and loyal service to the Borough of Clayton."

Mayor Jay H. Sharp also spoke and recalled that as a youth, Sgt. Sandelier was instrumental in advising, counseling and helping the youth of the community. The Mayor also commended Sandelier for his outstanding dedication to the Borough.

Former councilman Lester Weinstein also spoke and commended the honored guest. Weinstein also recalled the early days prior to the establishment of a full-time police department and the role Chief Pfrommer and Sandelier played in the progressive building of the department.

Judge Alampi concluded: "Sgt., completing his 35th year in a judicial capacity in the Borough, also spoke and asserted: "during his colorful career on the police force, no one has given so much of his time and talents in the interest of the community than has Sgt. Jim Sandelier." [This paragraph is transcribed as it is printed.]

Judge Alapmi (sic) concluded: "Sgt. Sandelier is best remembered for his many humanitarian deeds...in extending a helping hand to those less fortunate and despite this, he was always able to perform his duties in a real professional manner. He is a man of great compassion and understanding."

Guests included former Mayor and Mrs. Joseph Alexander; Mayor and Mrs. Jay H. Sharp; Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Puglia; Mr. and Mrs. Lester Weinstein; Chief and Mrs. Fred Pfrommer, and Judge and Mrs. Alex C. Alampi.

Sgt. Sal Ganei of the Clayton Police department served as chairman of the Testimonial dinner committee. Others on the committee included Harry Doughty, Les Weinstein, Floyd Wiita, Robert Sandelier, Joseph Cuccinota, John Cuccinota, Gerald Bradel and Councilmen Daniel Pleis and Richard Wear.



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