Mosque Details Questioned, Schools Open Top Local News

Estimates for Mosque Worshippers Questioned

Plans for a proposed 4,200-square-foot mosque on Church Street in Liberty Corner at Tuesday evening's meeting faced more hard questioning from neighbors and other residents. Questions this week focused on how many people are expected to attend services. Ali Chaudry, the head of the Islamic Society of Basking Ridge said that the suburban mosque is needed to serve Muslims in the Somerset Hills area. But many residents protested anticipated traffic and the creation of a public establishment in an area of historic homes. However, an attorney for the Islamic Society said a house of worship is a permitted use in a residential zone.

What better way to start football season than with a resounding victory for the Ridge Red Devils? The team and some stalwart fans had to travel all the way to Montgomery, but they left with a 36-7 win, even with a brief lightning break. Next week, the Red Devils meet their rivals from Immaculata High School, in a home game at 7 p.m. on Friday.

Olde Mill Inn Bike Racers Shine Despite Overcast Skies

On the last official day of summer, about 250 kids and more than 300 adult cyclists turned out for the bike races in downtown Basking Ridge on Labor Day, as presented by of Basking Ridge and the Bernards Township Department of Parks and Recreation. Many of the winners were local!

The school year began on Thursday in Bernards Township School and in the neighboring over the summer. In both district, enrollment remained stable. Meanwhile, buses from Ridge High School continued heading to the rear of Cedar Hill Elementary School to try to clear up traffic at the school entrance. School officials say they are working on a long-term solution.

Somerset Hills YMCA Welcomes New CEO

The Board of Directors and others key in the organization officially welcomed new President and Chief Executive Officer David Carcieri to the position. Carcieri, coming from the Sussex County YMCA, arrived at the Somerset Hills YMCA in Basking Ridge on Aug. 20. He takes the reins from retiring CEO Robert Lomauro, who officially leaves this month.