“Apparently, no time of year, not even the holiday season, is free from Staci Berger’s farcical attempts to create a problem where there is none,” Piscataway Township Public Information Officer Gene Wilk said.  “Nevertheless, most people in Piscataway will still spend this time in good cheer with their neighbors.”

“Piscataway Township is a welcoming community that cherishes a wide variety of cultures and heritages,” Wilk continued.  “From a Diwali celebration at one of our libraries to a Lunar New Year celebration at our Senior Center to an annual Martin Luther King, Jr. commemorative breakfast, Township officials go to great lengths to engage residents of all backgrounds and build community.  In fact, Mayor Brian C. Wahler was recently honored by the Muslim Center of Middlesex County with a plaque for his outstanding community service.”

“For many years, Piscataway has enjoyed an annual evening with Santa at Town Hall with cookies, hot chocolate and a tree lighting,” Wilk added.  “Seeking a political opportunity, Ms. Berger came to the Township with additional last-minute requests.  Her requests were not refused; she was merely told by Township lawyers that they would need to see what courts have allowed as far as holiday displays.  Unfortunately, Township officials have to be extraordinarily careful to avoid potential litigation.”

“Regardless of her outrage de jour, Piscataway residents will continue to enjoy this festive time together and Township officials will continue to wish everyone, as the large, lighted sign in front of Town Hall says, Season’s Greetings,” Wilk said.

Wilk happens to be a member of Congregation B’nai Tikvah in North Brunswick but is only speaking on behalf of Piscataway Township.  Wilk is also featured in the upcoming documentary “Unforgotten 24” for the lead staff work he did in Congress on federal legislation that resulted in more than two dozen Hispanic, African American and Jewish veterans receiving the Medal of Honor after having been denied earlier due to discrimination.