12/12/14 City Hall, Perth Amboy *Photos by Katherine Massopust & Carolyn Maxwell
PERTH AMBOY – Before swearing in Kenneth Gonzalez as a Municipal Court Judge, Mayor Wilda Diaz offered the following remarks: “Gonzalez is a very special person in the community. As a resident of 40 years, he understands our needs, has knowledge of government, has a love of history and has served on several civic and community Boards. He’s also been a great supporter of Youth and ROTC programs.”
The Mayor acknowledged Kenny as a family man and mentioned his wife, Jeannette and his children: Michael and Kimberly who have been there to support him. “As you can see by those in attendance professionally and personally, this is a testament to him.”
After the swearing in, Kenneth Gonzalez thanked those in attendance. He started out by giving thanks to God in heaven for His grace. Continuing, he said, “This is a wonderful city. It’s not perfect, but it has potential.” He thanked his whole family and said that the Court has a lot of pride.
“I’ve been doing a lot of training with Judge Herman. I’d like to acknowledge the Court Staff (Judges that are here). Judge Herman says that our courts are doing well. I want to make sure that the courts are as friendly as possible: for the litigators and the lawyers. I want to thank the Council and Mayor for their support: sharing this with you is bittersweet.”
Gonzalez also acknowledged some of his classmates that were present and some of those he served on Boards with. One of those present included former Board of Education Member, Austin Gumbs who he considered one of his mentors when they served together.
- The JROTC present Colors
- Kenneth Gonzalez greets fellow Board Member Austin Gumbs. Standing behind Gonzalez is Cherrill Garoniak and behind Gumbs is his daughter, Joycelyn Gumbs-Alsup.
- A crowded City Hall Chambers watches the swearing in
- The Gonzalez Family poses for a photo
- Barry Rosengarten, Judge Maria Del Valle Koch and Kenneth Gonzalez