Robert Shortal, long-time Harrington Park resident of 47 years, said that during his early years in town everyone knew him simply as "Jackie’s husband."
"In those days, she was a library volunteer and she helped at the school with office work and was active in the Woman’s Club," said Shortal, whose wife died a few years ago. "Everybody knew her."
Judging by the 130 attendees at a luncheon in Shortal’s honor, one would not have guessed the former Independent Borough Council member was once overshadowed by his wife.
The guests, including members of the Woman’s Clubs, Knights of Columbus and Club 60, gathered together Jan. 20 at the Norwood Colonial Inn as a testimonial to Shortal’s continued commitment to the community and retirement from the Council.
In addition to his 12-year tenure on the council, Shortal has been a member and officer of the Harrington Park Ambulance Corps, active parishioner of Our Lady of Victories Church and member of the American Legion Post No. 30. He can also be found mornings and afternoons in front of the Harrington Park Public School, working as the school crossing guard.
As man who enjoys little "pomp and circumstance," Mayor Paul Hoelscher said he was surprised that Shortal went along with the fanfare. "We were fortunate to have Bob [Shortal] and Barbara [Budinich], who were the mainstays of the Ambulance Corps," said Hoelscher. "He [Shortal] was so giving of his time."
Accompanied by his two daughters, Shortal graciously accepted awards from Assemblyman John Rooney, U.S. Senators Robert Menendez and Frank Lautenberg and Governor John Corzine.
Shortal became an active community member after his 1987 retirement, having worked at the United Press International in New York City.
He recalls when one day, a "good friend and fellow in town" had encouraged him to "do good for the community" by volunteering for the Ambulance Corps.
"My friend asked, ‘What are you doing all day?’" said Shortal, who celebrates 20 years on the Ambulance Corps. Quickly thereafter, he trained as an emergency medical technician and took care of patients, responding to calls all hours of the night, he said.
Now, Shortal only performs light duty during the day since undergoing medical treatment, said Captain of the Ambulance Corps Kevin Fougere.
Shortal acknowledged that the reason why he continues to volunteer is because of the satisfaction he receives from helping others. "You feel like you’ve accomplished something instead of just occupying space," he said.
Through another friend, the late Borough Council member and Ambulance Corps volunteer Barbara Budinich, Shortal announced his intent to run for Borough Council. "Barbara didn’t have a running mate and she says, ‘Run with me,’" said Shortal.
His fellow council members said that he would be sorely missed.
"It’s just hard to imagine not having him on the council," said Borough Council President Mary Dunlea, who also considers Shortal a mentor. "He was always one to look outside of himself."
Ann Lott Bistritz, head of the town newsletter and event organizer, said that during the luncheon Shortal was funny and "very Bob."
"He shoots straight from the hip," said Bistritz. "And his family was proud to see him be recognized for his achievements."
E-mail: gonzalezso@northjersey.com or call 201-894-6711
