Jefferson Chronicle Winter 2020

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Print Edition 路 New Year 2021 路 Volume 3, Issue 1

HOMETOWN HEROES PLUS: RESIDENT GIVES BACK Habitat for Humanity House Falcons Football Season 路 Jefferson Police History New Crosswalk 路 Plus, Puzzles and More A Proudly LGBTQ+-, Veteran-, and Woman-Owned Publication

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TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

C H R II S TT O P H EE R B EE A N C H R S O P H R B A N C H R I S T O P H E R B E A N H O T O G R A P H Y P P HO O TT O OG GR RA AP PH HY Y PH Photographer· Photographer· Videographer· Videographer· FAA FAA Licensed Licensed Drone Drone Pilot Pilot Photographer· Videographer· FAA Licensed Drone Pilot

FF EE A TT U R EE D A U R FEATURED D P H O TT O P H O PHOTO O

A A beautiful beautiful American American flag flag flies flies over over Jefferson Jefferson Recycling Recycling on on A beautiful American flag flies over Jefferson Recycling on by taken Route (Photo taken by Route 15 15 North North in in Lake Lake Hopatcong, Hopatcong, New New Jersey.

Jersey. (Photo taken by Route 15 North in Lake New Jersey. and © 2020 Christopher Bean Hopatcong, Photography, LLC Photo may not(Photo be used in any and © 2020 Christopher Bean Photography, LLC Photo may not be used in any and ©without 2020 prior Christopher Photography, LLC Photo not be usedLLC) in any form written Bean permission of Christopher Beanmay Photography, form without prior written permission of Christopher Bean Photography, LLC) form without prior written permission of Christopher Bean Photography, LLC)

Phone: Phone: Phone: 973-919-4662 973-919-4662 973-919-4662 Email: Email: Email: cbeanphotos@me.com cbeanphotos@me.com cbeanphotos@me.com Website: Website: Website: www.cbeanphotos.com www.cbeanphotos.com www.cbeanphotos.com

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It’s been a long, rough 2020 – for about five years now, right?

Sure seems that way. But 2021 is here, and we have to hope it will be better.

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Contributors to This Issue Jim Dougherty, Geoff Magliocchetti, Jane Primerano, Carol Punturieri, Tricia Strasser, Tony Haryn, Melissa Kiritsis, Janet Pfeiffer, Christopher Bean Photography, LLC

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Here’s the thing … 2021, at least the beginning of it, could be every bit as bad as, if not worse than, most of 2020. I know, that sounds depressing! I’m just trying to be realistic, not a downer. It’s tough right now, but it looks like life could improve not too far into the new year.

If we think about all the great things our town has done throughout the pandemic, we know that we can ride it out as long as we keep working together. Jefferson has been so good about joining forces during this trying time.

We’ve had people making masks, youth groups collecting food, and fire departments doing birthday drive-bys, just to name a few.

This issue of TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition highlights some of our town’s amazing residents. For example, there’s Gina Valerio, who has been simply tireless in her work to help by providing food, masks, and other necessities. There’s also a group of women – Tricia Strasser, Linda Schrieks, Julisa Rodriguez, and Monica Soules – who put their heads together and created a beautiful tribute to Jefferson’s hometown heroes at the new Military Park near the municipal building. You can read about their projects in this issue.

We know the pandemic has been stressful. With home schooling, working, and trying to stay safe, it’s a lot for anyone to manage. So, to alleviate that stress a bit, we’ve added puzzles to this issue! You can check out our word search, Sudoku, and crossword. Enjoy a little downtime and keep your brain engaged with something fun.

Happy New Year to all of you! We hope 2021 brings everything your heart desires.

© 2020 by Eyes On Local, Inc. All rights reserved.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from Eyes On Local, Inc.

Please RECYCLE

4 Cover Photo: Hometown Hero banners grace the entry to the Jefferson Township Municipal Building (Christopher Bean Photography, LLC)

CONTENTS

Here’s the Thing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Clean Air and a Back Yard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Jefferson Township Honors Its Hometown Heroes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 JTHS Football Soars to New Heights in Unusual, Memorable 2020 Season . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Budget, Phosphorous on Lake Hopatcong Commission Agenda . . . . . 12 Some Knowledge of Super Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Retirement, White rock Lake and Renaming Locations on Council Docket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 BOE Budget for 2020-21 in Planning Stages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 3D Crosswalk Lights Up White Rock School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Together We Can . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Dual Stream Recycling in January . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The Good Fight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 For What It’s Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Sudoku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Wonder Word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Crossword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Marketplace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 In Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

CLEAN AIR AND A BACK YARD – A FAMILY’S DREAM HOME HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HOUSE GIVES THE DAVIS FAMILY A NEW START

By Jane Primerano (photos by Christopher Bean Photography, LLC.)

Habitat for Humanity house under construction.

Workers on the Habitat for Humanity house take a short break for a photo.

I

t was a muddy hole at the official groundbreaking on October 28, but by the same time in 2021, Morris Habitat for Humanity hopes to cut a ribbon with the Davis family and a lot of local volunteers. The groundbreaking for the new house consisted of grownups talking and the Davis children having fun with shovels.

Scott and Marly Davis and their six children currently live in a cramped two-bedroom Newark apartment. “We’ve been looking for a place for 10 years,” said Scott, noting that nothing affordable came into view until Habitat for Humanity. The family will especially appreciate a smoke-free environment.

“We live on the second floor,” he explained, “and the people downstairs are smokers.”

Davis noted that their daughters, Naomi (11) and Joy (9), will love having a room to themselves in the four-bedroom house. Two bedrooms will be shared by the boys, Paul (18), Peter (16), James (14), and Luke (6). The children said that they will really appreciate having a yard, playing basketball in the driveway, and having space for their toys.

The planned house is bigger than the typical Habitat for Humanity construction. According to Douglas Wright, chief construction officer for Morris Habitat, the two-story colonial will include two full baths and a basement. It will be certified energy efficient to help with the utility bills.

“We’re going to try for solar panels,” he said.

Wright was pleasantly surprised at the location on North Parkway, within walking distance of the Lake Shawnee beach and playground. The house will be built with as many volunteers as are willing to help, he said, and several neighbors have already volunteered. The Davis family will contribute a minimum of 500 hours of sweat equity.

According to Morris Habitat chief executive officer Blair Schleicher Wilson, the house will be number 121 built by the group, and the fourth in Jefferson Township. Having just walked the James Leach Trail, she assured the Davis family that there is much to do in Jefferson and that they would fit very well into the community. Speaking to the children, she said that they will be able to concentrate in the quiet of their own home and their parents will pay less than they currently do in rent.

The property belonged to Helen and Robert Garvey for many years. Their son, Robert, recalled that the family made numerous trips from West Orange to Lake Shawnee to enjoy the lake. His parents planned to build on the land, but ‘“life happened.” Robert and his wife, Linda, who live in Hunterdon County, first approached the neighbors about buying it. Then, believing that his parents would have wanted the property to go for a good cause, they donated it to Habitat.

The house will cost about $270,000 to build,according to Morris Habitat chief development officer Chris Palazzi. Homes are financed through grants and corporate donations, from individuals, and, in some cases, from state affordable housing funds. The family will purchase the home for about $220,000.

Schleicher Wilson stated that there are about 2,000 families on the “interested persons” list for Habitat housing. The Davises were chosen by lottery from a group of families who had been vetted for the program. The groundbreaking was blessed by the Davis family’s pastor, Matt Battista of Calvary Temple in Wayne, and by Reverend Alison Paden of Hilltop Presbyterian Church in Mendham.

For more information about Morris Habitat for Humanity, visit www.morrishabitat.org or call 973-891-1934.

From the Community, For the Community

7

Hometown Hero banners grace the entrance to Jefferson Township’s municipal building.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP HONORS ITS HOMETOWN HEROES

By Tricia Strasser (photos by Christopher Bean Photography, LLC)

T

he Jefferson Township Hometown Heroes project was started about two years ago by a group of local women with personal military connections – Julisa Rodriguez, Linda Schrieks, Monica Soules, and me. We approached the new mayor, Eric Wilsusen, with an idea to permanently honor local military members by hanging banners bearing their names and photos.

Although the mayor was receptive to the idea, we were unable to identify a suitable location and the project was put on hold. At the end of 2019, we discussed it again, and the mayor approved setting up the banners along the entrance road to the municipal complex near the Bicentennial Veterans’ Memorial.

Planning began in early 2020 when we outlined the eligibility criteria for our “hometown heroes.” Honorees must be members of any branch of the US military (active, veteran, or deceased). In addition, they must be graduates of Jefferson Township High School; Jefferson residents at the time of

8

graduation if they attended another high school; or current residents.

Due to Covid-19, the project was delayed once again, and finally came to fruition at the end of the summer. Township public works and grounds staff installed poles and banners for the new Jefferson Township Military Park. A ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 7 was attended by the mayor, business administrator Debra Millikin, and representatives of the honorees’ families. The names of 34 heroes featured on the first round of banners were read aloud.

Nomination forms for additional hometown heroes will be available each spring and fall prior to Memorial Day and Veterans Day, respectively, via local social media, flyers posted in prominent places, and The Jefferson Chronicle. Nominators provide the honoree’s name and branch of military service, and payment of $80 is made by the family or sponsor directly to the printer. For more information, contact me at TStrasser09@yahoo.com.

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

Current Jefferson Township Hometown Heroes: Andrew Babich – Air Force Robert J. Barone – Marine Corps Colleen Kuntz Bley – Air Force Frank Bley – Army Gene Robert Brandes – Army William J. Carroll IV – Army Jonathan Cuervo – Marine Corps Rodger Sean Davis – Marine Corps Melissa Lynn DeBonte – Air Force Rickey Ferriola – Marine Corps Anthony Gambuti – Navy William D. Graham – Marine Corps David B. Kerwien Jr. – Army National Guard Connor Kraljavich – Marine Corps Anthony Kuzma – Air Force John X. Lena – Navy David Losey – Army

Stephen M. Meyer – Navy Alexander N. S. Prezioso – Marine Corps Miguel A. Rodriguez – Navy Jeremy Romash – Marine Corps Albert Santucci – 8th Air Force Kurt G. Schray – Air Force Christopher Schrieks – Army National Guard Thomas J. Soules III – Army Frank Torre – Navy Jalen X. Torres – Navy Jose A. Torres – Navy Tammy Chapman Torres – Navy Lynn Vallimont – Air Force Andrew J. Verdes – Army Edward M. Walsh – Air Force Daun White III – Army National Guard John Thomas “JT” Wroblewski – Marine Corps

From the Community, For the Community

9

JTHS FOOTBALL SOARS TO NEW HEIGHTS IN UNUSUAL, MEMORABLE 2020 SEASON

By Geoff Magliocchetti (background photo by Christopher Bean Photography, LLC)

A

fter a spring and summer of relative social silence, long-sought normalcy found its way back to Jefferson in the fall, if only for two hours during a trio of night football games. Granted, the harsh realities of the temporary new normal during the ongoing health crisis still loomed large, primarily through reduced attendance and reminders to stay six feet apart for the lucky few who did get in. But perhaps the best form of social distancing came on the 100-yard turf field that housed the high school football team.

The new scoreboard at the primary athletic field, which bore the names and likenesses of seniors on kickoff weekend in October, was one of many revelations unveiled during an unusual 2020 campaign for the Falcons’ gridiron antics. But the lights in the visitors’ point column hardly had to be adjusted, as the Falcons’ defense allowed only seven points in three home games en route to a perfect 3-0 mark on school grounds. As fans kept to a six-foot separation protocol, Jefferson did the same ... only upping the ante by mostly keeping at least a six-point separation.

“They say that when backs are against the wall, true character is revealed,” Jefferson head coach Jerry Venturino remarked at season’s end. “What I love is that we just kept grinding, we kept to the process, the kids believed in us, the message we were delivering. Obviously, it was received. The kids played great at home, undefeated at home. The motto [this season] was ‘finish the job.’ Finish what we started.”

Venturino continued, “It just goes to prove that Jefferson football is real tough at home. I know we didn’t have the year that, crowd-based, every home team would love with fans allowed, but our kids defended their turf. We talked about the fact that you have to defend your house. Even as a grown man, protect your family and defend your castle.

This year, the kids obviously did that.”

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END OF THE SEASON Jefferson football finished the season with a 5-2 record, the finale being a 28-7 triumph over the Montville Mustangs. Such a ledger allowed the Falcons to clinch their first pair of consecutive winning seasons since 2012-13, while their winning percentage (.714) was the best since their last state championship run in 2008.

This season was one of chaos, the type that might have been labeled silly if not for the seriousness of the situation. The team, for example, had only a single day to prepare for a visit to Vernon after health complications pushed back their trip to Wanaque by nearly a month to play the Lakeland Lancers. After completing their original five-game slate, two more arose against the aforementioned Lancers and Mustangs.

The problems faced by football undoubtedly pale in comparison to the issues staged beyond the goalposts.

But granted an opportunity to play the sport they loved one last time in familiar spaces that have hosted their football endeavors for years, fourth-year student athletes like Kofi Mensah and his sophomore brother Kwadjo did not flinch for a second in taking the opportunity to lace their cleats up one last time.

“This field means a lot to us, and the people watching us as well,” said Mensah. “I look, see all the people I care about, my own family, my little brother’s on the sideline with me ... but I also look, I see the coaches, the teammates I’ve had during my second, third grade years, even beyond, all my friends’ parents, they’re almost like an extended family to me. Seeing them on the sidelines whenever I or my teammates make a big play always gives us the extra energy.”

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

TWISTS AND TURNS It was a year that featured several twists and turns – factors no football team, professional or amateur, could prepare for. Typical football obstacles also made their presence felt, particularly as the season proceeded toward an uncertain end in the form of injuries. It would have been understandable, and maybe even expected, to hold back and make a reluctant excuse. Instead, the Falcons suited up, strapped on their helmets, and did what they do best: wield the flags bearing the American banner and the school’s blue and yellow falcon, and enjoy a Friday night out.

“I just try to come out here and do my best every Friday night, try to help my talent, my team, everyone around me,” said Michael Gould, a running back/linebacker. “It’s what I do ... it’s a great way to finish my career. Just come out here and give everything I have for everyone around me: my team, my family, my town, my coaches, especially Coach V. That guy has done so much for me.”

Gould and his fellow seniors saw their high school football careers, as well as Jefferson’s abbreviated, seven-game quest, come to an end on November 20 against the Mustangs. The finale served as a microcosm of the 2020 season: a healthy dose of experienced seniors making major contributions, often on both sides of the ball, while a strong defensive effort kept scoring at a minimum. Gould tallied 172 rushing yards, a majority of it coming on a 90-yard breakout to six points toward the end of the first half. Andrew Weber’s crucial interception, his sixth of the season, complemented his first quarter touchdown reception.

All the while, underclassmen provided hope for the future in a downright historic year for the program. Junior Erik Garv threw two touchdown passes while trickery from sophomore

receiver Jason Eisele saw a 55-yard gain to Caleb Rippey to set up the final touchdown of the year – appropriately scored

by Gould, who briefly left the drive to tend to an injury before coming back.

No return trip to Piscataway or East Rutherford awaited, as another luxury taken for granted was wiped out by current events. But the ensuing celebration and farewell, one that took place in the familiar settings of Jefferson, perhaps provided the emotional output that no championship run could fulfill.

A sense of incompleteness may linger around this season with no playoff tournament, accompanied by the eternally unanswered question of what might’ve, could’ve been. An elusive state title more than a decade in the making will also have to wait another year, and there is surely no substitute for that championship feeling. Yet in the aftermath of the win over Montville, the feeling of unity was fully on display – the realization that an arduous quest was not only conquered, but also over. Players flocked to one another and to Venturino, sharing embraces, reminiscing over all that was accomplished in cramped conditions. The team had gotten through an unusual season the way they began it: together.

“It’s amazing, because we were committed to the whole process, going through the weight room and everything. I just love these guys so much,” Weber said. “I was supposed to be a one-way player, but my teammate got hurt. So I got out there, made the most of it.”

Senior defender Lawrence DiBiase added, “I couldn’t be more proud of myself and my boys. I think, going forward, Coach V has a lot of talent here. I think we’ve done the right job, finishing the job. That was the goal the whole year: finish the job and get the W. I think we really did that.”

FINAL 2020 RESULTS Date

Opponent

Result

Notable Performer

10/2

West Milford

W, 21-0

Erik Garv (6-11, 108 yards, 2 TD)

10/9

@ Sparta

L, 46-10

Theo Fisher (5-8, 61 yards, 1 TD)

10/24

@ Vernon

W, 35-6

Caleb Rippey (5 receptions, 107 yards, 1 TD)

10/30

Passaic Valley

W, 7-0

Dylan Patscher (12 tackles, 4 TFL, 2 sacks)

11/6

@ Mount Olive

L, 46-10

Keith Ferguson (6 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 sack)

11/13

@ Lakeland

W 19-12

Michael Gould (27 carries, 200 yards, 3 TD)

11/20

Montville

W 28-7

Andrew Weber (4 tackles, 1 INT, 3 receptions, 46 yards, 1 TD)

From the Community, For the Community

11

BUDGET, PHOSPHORUS ON LAKE HOPATCONG COMMISSION AGENDA

By Jane Primerano (article and photo)

TINY HARVESTERS The commission contracted with a company called Northern Lights for minimal weed removal. Administrator Colleen Lyons stated that the small harvester brought in 7-10 cubic yards of weeds, which were transferred onto a pontoon boat that served as a barge. According to commissioner Fred Steinbaum, the tiny harvesters are actually quite efficient at removing weeds from shallow areas and near docks. Smith said the containers have holes to drain the water away from the harvested weeds, thus reducing the weight. Because landfills charge by weight, disposal costs are reduced.

Efforts to keep Lake Hopatcong clean are working.

B

ecause the 2020 weed harvesting season was cut short by an accident, the Lake Hopatcong Commission was able to pass a harvesting budget $100,000 lower than normal at its meeting on November 9. The death of harvester operator Curtis Mulch in May left only one full-time program employee for the rest of the season. With $114,815 remaining in surplus from the 2020 season, the commission had to appropriate only $255,000 for the 2021 season.

State park superintendent Melissa Castellon presented a budget for fiscal year 2021 that included items such as one full-time salary of $90,250.97 (including benefits and some overtime worked), three part-time salaries totaling $42,867.31, and operating costs. The commission sets its budget before the next weed harvesting program begins.

The commission’s storage facility belongs to the Borough of Franklin, said Department of Environmental Protection representative Josh Osowski. The commission does not pay rent on the building, but is responsible for its upkeep.

According to chair Ron Smith, this has included some mold remediation and roof repairs. The harvester damaged in the May accident is in the parking lot of the Franklin building.

Because it was upside down in the water, commissioners are concerned about possible water in the engine block that will freeze and crack it over the winter, resulting in costly repairs.

The DEP will not allow the commission to move the harvester because the accident is still under investigation, said Smith.

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One day of harvesting cost $1,725, said Lyons, adding that the small harvesters can remove a lot of phosphorus near the shore – but at high cost. Northern Lights was hired for a small pilot project rather than a long-term contract.

Commissioner Mark Crowley suggested obtaining contract information to determine the cost effectiveness of using harvesters that can operate in shallow water.

Fred Lubnow of Princeton Hydro told the commission that a grant received by Mount Arlington for beach restoration and stream maintenance can serve as a match for more Watershed Improvement Planning (WIP) money. He reported that Princeton Hydro had completed the WIP and submitted it to both the commission and the Highlands Council, and that he would meet with Mount Arlington’s project engineer after the council looks over the proposed design and engineering.

Lubnow had some good news to report to the commission.

The biochar installed in streams leading into Lake Hopatcong accomplished 50% removal, and the material installed in Memorial Pond, Duck Pond, and Ashley Cove removed 80-90%. According to Lubnow, biochar works better in still water, as the program last summer proved.

The biochar in streams was installed at the point where they enter the lake, and the water moves more slowly than in the bulk of the stream. But even 50% removal is considered good, he explained, as the three-chambered baffle boxes in many storm drains remove only up to 40%. A question remains about how often the biochar material must be replaced. John Paul Bell from Princeton Hydro suggested flipping the chambers next year to see if that prolongs the material’s usefulness.

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

Lubnow will present the findings of the phosphorus abatement projects to the New Jersey Water Association resource conference and the North American Lake Management Society conference. Because Lake Hopatcong is ahead of other bodies of water in phosphorus removal, he is sharing the database with other lake communities.

A WIP increases funding opportunities, said Lubnow, and it was paid for by the Highlands Council. The state Department of Environmental Protection gave its blessing to all the projects. The WIP mentions that Jefferson is looking into a sewer feasibility study. Mayor Eric Wilsusen noted that the township received a $100,000 grant to update the 2002 sewer plan.

Princeton Hydro will also be working with the commission’s land use subcommittee. Lubnow said the firm has an engineer and an environmental scientist familiar with site plan issues.

According to subcommittee chair Robert Tessier, the state Department of Community Affairs representative to the commission, the commission’s planning consultant, Ken Nelson, is preparing a procedure for reviewing site plans that will allow its members to see land use applications at the same time they go to the professionals hired by land use boards in the four towns. This will enable the land use subcommittee to review applications and make recommendations to the municipal board in a timely manner.

LAKE DRAWDOWN In other business, commissioner Fred Steinbaum presented a proposal for the annual drawdown of the lake, which was reduced from 26 inches to 22 inches on the recommendation of the Citizens Advisory Council. (Every five years, the lake is lowered by 60 inches.) During one drought year, the lake did not recover properly from the 26-inch drawdown. The Department of Environmental Protection rejected a recommendation for a 16-inch drawdown a few years ago, and Steinbaum suggested an 18-inch drop.

Vice president Dan McCarthy noted that the annual drawdown is performed to protect docks and other structures and also to prevent downstream flooding. He reminded the commission that annual drawdowns were originally 36 inches and then 30 inches, and observed that a change to 18 inches may not be received well by the state.

Steinbaum, who has lived on the lake since the 1940s and has worked on lake level proposals since 2015, recalled that the DEP rejected 16 inches because of the danger of high water damage to two buildings downstream on the Musconetcong River in Stanhope. However, his suggestion of 18 inches would be low enough to prevent damage if a large ice floe breaks off and hits a dock. According to Osowski, the lake level would be discussed at the next Citizens Advisory Council meeting.

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From the Community, For the Community

13

SNAPSHOTS OF HISTORY

JEFFERSON’S POLICE DEPARTMENT BEGAN WITH ONE OFFICER

By Carol Punturieri (photos from the collection of the late Ada Felter, provided by Patricia Felter Staples)

J

efferson Township was incorporated in 1804, but its police force did not officially begin until approximately 125 years later – and it started with just one officer.

Fast forward: Today’s police department protects and serves township residents with a force numbering 37 sworn officers and 13 patrol cars.

the Dover police department took their calls. The first police car was purchased in 1953, and a police radio was added with donations from local businesses.

chief and served in that capacity until 1949. Police services for the township were also provided by the New Jersey State Police. Troopers from the Netcong State Police Barracks covered calls in the Lake Hopatcong area, and troopers from the Newfoundland State Police Barracks covered calls in the Milton/Oak Ridge area.

The fleet expanded when a rented 1958 Pontiac joined the 1953 Ford that was still on the road. The state police continued to provide emergency assistance when Jefferson’s now six full-time officers were not available. Bob Pace wrote in the Dover Lake Land News in June 1962 that the department’s two police cars were equipped with “fire extinguishers, cameras, oxygen, gas billys, crow bars, searchlights, and firemen axes.” As the department continued to expand, more vehicles and radios were added.

The Historical Society’s records indicate that by 1958, the police department occupied a small room in the Jefferson Township Fire Company No. 2 facility. The cramped office According to Jefferson consisted of a desk, Township Historical a small file cabinet, Society records, Presand a telephone on a ton (“Pres”) King first windowsill. By the earserved as an emergenly 1960s, police headcy police officer for quarters were located the entire township in a small building in in the late 1920s at a Lake Hopatcong on salary of $50 a month.

In March 1959, seven men posed for a group photo: patrolman Joseph Marra, Route 15 South. (The He apparently used his lieutenant Seth Ridner, chief Carl Carlson, commissioner S. P. Sutphen, sergeant property is currently an auto old Ford as transportation, Russell D. Felter, patrolman Wesley Ross, and patrolman Robert Mosedale. dealership.) The officers somedressed in a policeman’s times used the upstairs area of the Fire Company No. 2 station jacket and hat, and drove to Morristown whenever he had to for meetings. appear in court. King was later joined by special police officer George Varick, who provided protection for the Milton section In those early days, there were no specialized divisions or of the township and was paid only when he worked. Both offibureaus, and an officer’s duties included everything from dicers received calls in their own homes, and crime primarily inrecting traffic to investigating homicides. The department did volved burglaries of summer houses within the township’s lake not have a dispatcher and continued to receive its messages communities as well as commercial break-ins. from the Dover police department. Jefferson residents who needed police assistance called Dover to have a Jefferson ofThe township’s police department was formed on a partficer dispatched to the location. time basis around 1938. King was appointed as part-time

In 1950, it was decided that Jefferson needed a full-time police department, which was created by ordinance. Carl Carlson was appointed by the Township Committee as the first full-time chief, assisted by part-time officers Seth Ridner, Joe Bendell, and Waldo Fredericks, Jr. They continued to receive calls in their homes, and when they were on the road,

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In 1972, the headquarters were moved to the current location in the municipal building at 1033 Weldon Road. (Weldon and Berkshire Valley are still the two main roads connecting the

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

In October 1976, four police officers were presented with awards for acts of heroism by mayor Horace Chamberlain, flanked by chief Russell D. Felter: patrolmen Gary Turnberger, William McConley, and Albert Stern and captain Robert Mosedale. Turnberger was commended for attempting to rescue a child from a house fire and, in another incident, arresting a man with a revolver who refused to surrender. McConley was commended for rescuing two boys who had fallen through the ice in Lake Hopatcong.

Stern received his award for disarming a man with a 24-inch knife who threatened to kill himself and Stern. Mosedale’s award was for talking a man into surrendering a pistol that he had used to fire a shot through the front door of his home. In all instances, the officers were not injured.

The top marksmen in Jefferson’s police department displayed their trophies following the first combat match at the local police range: patrolman Frank Distasi, third place; patrolman Martin Kowal, second place; sergeant George Simon, first place. Joining them was chief Russell D. Felter, holding the trophy that would later be presented to the first officer who earned three first-place awards.

Milton and the Lake Hopatcong sections of the township.)

Just an eighth of a mile from the middle and high schools, the police department shares the complex with the library, gazebo, creative playground, and Bicentennial Veterans’ Memorial.

Jane Primerano wrote in The Forum newspaper in July 1976 that Jefferson’s police department consisted of 30 men and 11 vehicles. Chief Russell Felter, father of Jefferson’s previous mayor, believed it was adequate for the township’s size and fluctuating population due to summertime day trippers.

He noted, however, that “the development of even a small portion of the township’s vast open space could complicate the department’s problems greatly.” As the population slowly increased, so did the demand for additional police services. Numbers continued to swell with the influx of summer

In 1976, with chief Russell D. Felter looking on, mayor Horace Chamberlain congratulated special services officers Bernice Saporito and Al Forman upon their completion of classes at the Law Enforcement Officers Training School.

homeowners, boaters and other watercrafters enjoying Lake Hopatcong, and visitors frequenting local restaurants, golf courses, and various businesses.

The police department’s first building was located on Route 15 South just past the firehouse.

Police coverage in Jefferson is distinctive because of the community’s geographic layout. The department manages 39.132 square miles of land, 3.976 square miles of water, and the natural boundaries of open space that include Morris County’s Mahlon Dickerson Reservation and Saffin Rock Rill. These two massive properties physically separate the Lake Hopatcong and Milton sections of the township. Jefferson police cover all township roads in addition to other major roadways falling within their jurisdiction – nine miles of Berkshire Valley Road, five and a half miles of State Route 15, portions of State Route 23, approximately two miles of Route 181, and a very small section of Interstate 80.

From the Community, For the Community

Continued on page 16

15

Snapshots of History continued from page 15 Over the years, travel time between the two township sections has been reduced from at least 30 minutes to only 10 minutes thanks to road improvements and upgrades in police equipment. According to Jefferson’s current chief, Paul Castimore, four squads of officers work the roads. Each squad includes a sergeant, a corporal, and four officers. One squad is on duty at any given time – 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To lessen the necessity of travel from one section of town to the other and thereby reduce the overall response time, squads are divided to ensure that each section has two to three officers on patrol.

Calls that involve boats and other watercraft on Lake Hopatcong are usually handled by the State Police Marine Division, with assistance as needed by Jefferson police, Milton Fire Company No. 1 and/or Lake Hopatcong Fire Company No. 2, and Milton First Aid Squad and/or Jefferson Township Rescue Squad. However, situations occurring at the township’s smaller bodies of water – such as Lake Shawnee, Lake Winona, Lake Forest, Cozy Lake, Longwood Lake, White Rock Lake, and Lake Swannanoa – are handled by the Jefferson police, fire, and first aid members.

Chief Castimore and police records clerk Erin Ackerly provided the following crime statistics for 2020. Castimore noted that some of the data are affected by the Covid-19 pandemic; overall, crime is down from 2019.

2020 Crime Statistics Through September: DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) Speeding

Accident Fatal Accident

33 172 393 1

2020 Crime Statistics Through October: Domestic Violence (could include assault) 80 Drug Abuse (adults over 18) 22 Aggravated Assault (with weapon/other object) 5 Assault

8 Burglary (break-in)

4 Theft (any type)

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with 12 recoveries Homicide

0 Auto Theft

4

The police department is a division of the public safety department overseen by the mayor, who is also the director of public safety. It includes the office of the chief, administrative and patrol divisions, detective bureau, community services bureau, communications/information technology, records bureau, office of emergency management, and court security division.

In addition to chief Paul Castimore and captain Robert Bush, the department has three lieutenants, six sergeants, and six corporals for a total of 37 full-time sworn police officers, including three detectives. Two Class 2 special officers (all retired police officers from other jurisdictions) are members of the court security division. The department’s civilian staff includes four full-time dispatchers, two part-time dispatchers, two full-time records clerks, one full-time technology specialist, one full-time administrative assistant in the chief ’s office, five office of emergency management coordinators, and a community emergency response team (CERT) coordinator.

The department continues to evolve in accordance with its mission statement: “The Jefferson Township Police Department firmly believes in the dignity and worth of all people. It is our duty to safeguard lives and property, and to protect the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression and intimidation, while protecting the individual’s constitutional rights to liberty, equality, and justice.”

Jefferson Township Chiefs of Police: 1938-1949 1950-1968 1968-1983 1983-1985 1985-1986 1986-1993 1993-1999 1999-2008 2008-2015 2015-2019 2019-2020 2020-

Preston King Carl Carlson Russell D. Felter Robert Mosedale Kenneth Wilsusen (acting) George Stamer James Leach John V. Palko, Jr. Kevin Craig William Craig Sean Conrad Paul Castimore

Incident reports generated by the Jefferson Township police department show a total of 39,239 calls for service as of November 4. These include 3,339 calls to 911; 925 squad calls; 103 noise complaints (including from outside dining); 2,474 motor vehicle stops; and 1,241 summonses issued.

Sources: Ed Azar’s “History of the JTPD” based on input from former chief James Leach, Jefferson Township Historical Society, chief Paul Castimore, JTPD records clerk Erin Ackerly, Patricia Felter Staples, Bob Pace (Dover Lake Land News, June 1962), Jane Primerano (The Forum, July 1976)

Chief Castimore noted that Jefferson is participating in Morris County’s first auto task force and adopting the slogan “Lock It or Lose It.” Two police officers have been assigned to the task force.

All photographs are from the collection of the late Ada Felter, wife of the late police chief Russell D. Felter, and made available to The Jefferson Chronicle by their daughter, Patricia Felter Staples. Ada Felter was also the mother of former mayor Russ Felter.

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TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

ANYTHING FOOD (SPECIAL CONTENT)

SOME KNOWLEDGE OF SUPER FOODS

By Jimmy Seretis, Co-Owner, Jefferson Diner and J. Towne Tavern

W

ith the holiday season here and the Thanksgiving turkey feast behind us, it is now time for everyone to consider some of these super foods to supplement their diet and get back on track for a healthier new year.

Being in the food industry for many years has taught me to listen, learn, research, and use specific foods to benefit my health and that of my family. Let’s take a look at some of these super foods that will enhance your personal health and lifestyle.

You may not like the next one, but you should use it whenever you can! Garlic is a super food that can bring about great health benefits, has medicinal purposes, and has positive biological effects on body. Garlic is low calorie, can combat illnesses, reduce blood pressure, improve your cholesterol levels, lower risk for heart disease, and help detoxify your body to improve your its performance. Some people think it has a horrid smell, but it is a super food that we cannot ignore.

Among the newer super foods that the world has been touting are the berries and flowers of elderberry. These are packed with vitamins that will boost your immune system, control inflammation, protect the heart and lessen levels of stress. They are also known for helping to prevent and ease cold and flu symptoms.

We’ll start off with a food staple that is used throughout the entire world: the egg.

According to the Canadian Journal of Diabetes and US National Library of Medicine, people worried about cholesterol impact of eggs shouldn’t be concerned. Studies have shown that moderate egg consumption is not linked with high cholesterol or poor heart health conditions. Eggs are high in protein, as many people know, but also high in phosphorus, vitamins A and B, iron, choline, and selenium. Eggs also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health.

The consumption of dark chocolate in moderation can provide with powerful antioxidants. According to nutrition data, a typical dark chocolate bar with 70-80% cacao contains iron, fiber, magnesium and copper, a chocolate lover’s dream.

Here are some popular super foods that are commonly used in additional. Start using them and see if they make a real difference in your overall life: kale, chia seeds, broccoli, strawberries, salmon, oatmeal, quinoa, blueberries, watermelon, spinach, pistachios, ginger, beets, beans, cranberries, leeks, apples, papaya, spinach, seaweed, tomatoes, spirulina, water, arugula, coconut milk.

Find the ones that work best for you.

From the Community, For the Community

17

A view over White Rock Lake in Oak Ridge of the beach and clubhouse.

RETIREMENT, WHITE ROCK LAKE, AND RENAMING LOCATIONS ON COUNCIL DOCKET

By Jane Primerano (photo by Christopher Bean Photography, LLC.)

J

efferson Township engineer Ed Haack announced his impending retirement in plenty of time for the township administration to implement a succession plan. By including a second position in the 2020 budget during a recent township council meeting, the council and the administration set the wheels in motion to hire an engineer to work alongside Haack for several months to assure a smooth transition. According to business administrator Debra Millikin, Jim Lutz began on December 1 and Haack will remain for several months on a reduced schedule.

The council also addressed the future of White Rock Lake.

The township foreclosed on two lots, one containing the clubhouse and parking lot and the other the beach. (Homeowners retain ownership of the lake itself.) The township has considered leasing the lake, and recreation director Grace Rhinesmith has a number of ideas for using the entire parcel.

Millikin noted that this would involve hiring lifeguards and insuring the property; insurance can be very costly when a lake is involved. Rhinesmith will discuss future plans with the council.

Mayor Eric Wilsusen asked the council to consider a policy for naming locations in the community for residents. Several places have been designated over the years, including roads, but a policy has not been formalized. Mitchko Mountain was named for a former mayor and the township named a hiking

18

trail for retired business administrator James Leach. Three school buildings in Lake Hopatcong (one of which now houses the Board of Education) were named by the school district for school board members Arthur Stanlick and Robert Drummond and educator Ellen T. Briggs. The daughter of former mayor Evelyn Brown has suggested naming a cabin at Camp Jefferson for her mother.

Wilsusen would like a policy in order to consider such requests, including road renaming. Some township roads were originally named for families that historically owned the property, such as Bird Lane and Felter Place. Renaming can cause problems for residents because of address changes.

When the township wanted to honor John Thomas Wroblewski, who was killed in the line of duty in Iraq, the official road name was left intact and a plaque was added above it.

Council member Debi Merz Bennett recommended that something named for a resident should be permanent, and Jay Dunham concurred that “the original decision to name should live beyond us.” Bob Birmingham noted that standards should include length of service to the township, what group is making the suggestion, and review of the recommendation. According to township attorney Thomas Ryan, state and federal laws that address honoring people through naming primarily require consistent standards, and he suggested adopting an ordinance.

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

J-TOWN TIDBITS

By Carol Punturieri

JEFFERSON’S CITIZENS OF THE YEAR

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

n an effort to recognize township residents making a significant contribution to their community, former mayor Russ Felter began the Citizen of the Year program.

The first award was presented to Jack Kelly in 2000.

lcoholism can be described as “a physical compulsion coupled with a mental obsession” or “a distinct physical desire to consume alcohol beyond one’s capacity to control it and in defiance of all the rules of common sense.” Alcoholism is a major American health problem affecting millions.

Many agree that alcoholism is an illness that can never be cured, but can be arrested. There is no shame in facing any illness honestly and making an effort to control it.

I

Current mayor Eric Wilsusen has continued the tradition.

Every year, the sitting mayor has solicited nominations of individuals who continually volunteer their time and talents to make a positive difference in the lives of their fellow citizens and make Jefferson Township a great community. The choice is based on dedication to the township, expression of concern for others through service, school, church, or community committees, willingness to work with other residents, and enthusiasm about the town and its citizens. Also important is the individual’s demonstration of honesty and integrity.

CITIZENS OF THE YEAR: 2000 – Jack Kelly 2001 – Paul “Joe” Mikowski and Andrea “Gig” Coley 2002 – Deborah (Debi) Smead and Art Bonito 2003 – Carol Punturieri and Brooke Hardy 2004 – Julie Mastricola and Phil Leavitt 2005 – Christine Williams and Richard West 2006 – Margit Rahill and Neil VanDyke 2007 – Doris Roberts and Cliff Williams 2008 – Bill Craig and Kathy Valva 2009 – Larry Parr and Marge Babich 2010 – Kim Finnegan and Irv Ackerson 2011 – Rose Jackameit and Tom McCarthy 2012 – Eileen Grady and John Focacci 2013 – Jefferson Township Emergency Services: Fire Company No. 1 Fire Company No. 2 Milton First Aid Squad Jefferson Township Rescue Squad Office of Emergency Management Police Department Community Emergency Response Team 2014 – Debi Merz and Eric Wilsusen 2015 – Kathleen Damerel and James Perrier 2016 – Janet Breckenridge and Rick Yocum 2017 – James Leach 2018 – Janet Boetticher (Mayor Eric Wilsusen’s first recipient) 2019 – Katherine “Kat” Van Wolput 2020 – to be announced in 2021

A

Individuals who have decided to become involved in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) have admitted that they are having trouble with alcohol. They have reached the point of worry because they cannot control its use and alcohol is interfering with normal living. Willpower alone is simply not enough. The excessive use of alcohol can result in the loss of family, possessions, jobs, and self-respect – and sometimes in hospitalization, jail, and alienation from friends and business associates.

Those afflicted can voluntarily reach out for assistance to maintain sobriety through AA, an informal international fellowship whose members share the primary purposes of staying sober and helping others achieve sobriety. Chapters include men and women of all ages and various social, cultural, and economic backgrounds who understand the problem and empathize with those suffering from alcoholism. They are not affiliated with any religious denomination, group, or cause. Members are not recruited.

Rather, they are welcomed to meet together and talk. The program works in achieving sobriety as members learn about alcoholism and about themselves from others who have been there.

AA teaches that all alcoholics face the same basic problems, whether they are panhandlers on the street or executives in a large corporation. The program has proven successful for almost any alcoholic who honestly wants it to work, beginning with the admission that he or she is powerless over alcohol. The recovery experiences of other members in achieving sobriety are among the “tools” provided, and members are free to accept or reject them. The AA program has 12 steps of recovery offering “a sober way out of the squirrel cage of confused problem drinking.”

There are no dues, fees, requirements, formal rituals, patterns of living, or judgment. Perhaps most importantly, there is anonymity to protect each person’s privacy. AA help is available without any charge or obligation at chapters throughout the world. For more details about the AA program, visit https://nnjaa.org/faq.html#whatisaa.

To find a local group, visit https://nnjaa.org and click on the “Meeting Finder” link to search by zip code. Inquiries can also be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week by phone at 908-687-8566 or 800-245-1377, or by writing to General Service Office, Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163.

Recovery and sobriety are possible, as many AA members can attest.

From the Community, For the Community

19

BOE BUDGET FOR 2021-22 IN PLANNING STAGES

By Geoff Magliocchetti

T

he latest gathering of the Jefferson Township Board of Education focused on the future, as the group made its initial plans toward forming a 2021-22 budget.

The meeting was open to the public in the socially distanced setting of the high school auditorium, moved from its customary location in the school’s media center.

BOE business administrator Rita Oroho Giacchi presented highlights of the budget history and the oncoming process.

“We’re already well underway in establishing the budget for the 2021-22 school year,” she said in her introduction. In discussing the prep work that took place in October, she noted, “This involves making some revenue projections about state aid and a local tax levy. We perform an enrollment analysis with net history and any significant trends that we need to accommodate. We establish per-student supply allocations and we do a detailed review of current year spending to identify if there are any trends that have to be taken into consideration with the go-forward process.”

Superintendent Jeanne Howe added, “Although it seems early, we are gearing up for next year’s budget. An outcome of the community relations meeting was to share the budget process, unfunded mandates, and staffing concerns associated with the budget. We started our presentations tonight with a recap of the budget history and the process we will be following.”

the decreases “have a large impact on what we can continue to offer.”

Other items covered at the meeting included Howe’s presentation of the original site plan rendering of the high school, which was framed for display in the building.

Education Committee representative Jill Small reported on a discussion of the return of high school winter sports, with competitions running from December 21 through February 3, followed by a two-week postseason. PSAT tests are scheduled for sophomores and juniors on January 26.

Amy Gould reported for the Building Needs and Finance Committee that restrictions on facility use by outside organizations will be revisited. The committee also discussed the anticipated drop in state aid and “possible reductions and other areas of concern,” including new health benefits packages and salary increases. A clearer picture regarding these expenses is expected to emerge in the coming months and the administration will help to “refine those revenue projections.”

Schools and departments have begun their initial budget entries and discussions have started with the BOE Finance Committee. The upcoming schedule includes initial payroll input, central administration review, refining key expense projections (salaries, health benefits, property insurance, workman’s compensation, insurance, etc.), ongoing discussions with the Finance Committee, receipt of state aid allocations, a budget address in February, submission of a tentative budget to the Department of Education’s county office for review, budget presentation and public hearing at a local board meeting, and budget adoption.

Giacchi stressed that the board’s committees will be in constant communication regarding changes in plans and explained, “Every line item that we budget for is based on either a vetted need or assumption. It’s based on historical trends and current priorities.” She reviewed the school funding and enrollment history as well as past, present, and future state aid.

Jefferson is expected to receive just over $9.2 million in state aid, which Giacchi equated to 17 percent of the total budget – down from more than $12 million allotted for the current fiscal year. “This makes the shortfalls in state aid seem even a little more intense than what we have to deal with, as it represented 30 percent of our budget,” she said, adding that

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TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

From the Community, For the Community

21

3-D CROSSWALK LIGHTS UP WHITE ROCK SCHOOL

By Jane Primerano (article and photo)

M

ost children in sprawling Jefferson Township take buses to and from school, as distance and a lack of sidewalks make walking unlikely for the majority. But students at White Rock School have sidewalks, and many do walk.

Several months ago, members of Brownie Troop 6771 wrote to Jefferson mayor Eric Wilsusen to explain that the crosswalk on White Rock Boulevard at Marci Drive was not visible enough to drivers. Wilsusen, who grew up in the community, understood their concern. He raised the matter with the township council at budget time and obtained funding for a lighted crosswalk. Two poles with LED lights make the new crosswalk more visible, even in inclement weather. The Department of Public Works installed a curb cut on the school side of the crosswalk for added safety, said the mayor.

The lights are not the only innovation in crosswalk design. Three sophomore friends – George Gillen of Jefferson, who attends the environmental science academy at the high school, Dillon Fleksher, and Ryan Winters of Kinnelon High School – worked on a

22

project to research and demonstrate how 3D crosswalks can improve pedestrian safety. The extracurricular project won first place in the state’s 18th annual eCYBERMISSION competition, one of several science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) initiatives sponsored by the US Army Educational Outreach Program. The boys call their team the Ham Horns.

Their design was painted on two streets at no charge by V&V Line Striping of Boonton, said Wilsusen. The first crosswalk, behind the Smoke Rise Inn in Kinnelon, was painted following approval by the Smoke Rise board of governors. The second, at White Rock School in Jefferson, is the only 3D crosswalk at a school in the state.

George’s mother, Jemi Gillen-Ruth, advised the team and said the project was written up in Pavements MAGAZINE. According to Wilsusen, the convergence of the Brownies’ letter and the boys’ project made a perfect combination for the intersection. He joined the Brownies to cut a ribbon at the walk on October 21. Police officers, Department of Public Works employees, school officials, and parents attended the ceremony.

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

TOGETHERWE WECAN CAN TOGETHER

WHENIS EVERYTHING IS SUICIDE PREVENTABLE MAKING US ANXIOUS

By Melissa Kiritsis, JTConnect

By Melissa Kiritsis, JTConnect uicide can be an uncomfortable topic for many people, but in recent years there has been more research and ight now, we are living in a world of uncertainty in education surrounding the issue that has led to more every direction we turn. People are facing lockdowns, understanding and less stigma surrounding it.

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isolation, sickness, and grief in many different forms.

Add tensions the election, colder weather, and the According to the from American Foundation for Suicide holiday season, and it is not surprising that anxiety for many Prevention, suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in is at an all-time high. the United States. In 2018, 48,344 Americans died by suicide,Anxiety and there an estimated millionBut attempts. can were be a normal, healthy1.4 emotion. sometimes On average, there are 132 suicides per day and of excessive worry, nervousness, and fear indicate 90% an anxiety disorder, various types.

Symptoms those who died of by which suicidethere had are a diagnosable mental healthcan include recurring thoughts, feelings of restlessness, condition at the time ofintrusive their death. worry, increased irritability, and difficulties concentrating or

Suicide is related to brain functions that affect decision making and behavioral control. It makes it difficult for we can shift our attention to things that are within our people to find positive solutions, but suicidal thoughts are control. Establishing a routine and setting a schedule have just a symptom, like any other. There are treatments available been shown to reduce anxiety by enabling us to feel more andorganized people can improve over time. medications used and in control, whichCertain are important elements to treat depression or stabilize mood have been proven to during this time of unpredictability. help reduce suicidal thoughts and behavior. Specific therapy When coping are not enough to manage anxiety and treatments like skills Cognitive Behavior Therapy (“CBT”) it begins to interfere with day-to-day functioning, consider and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (“DBT”) are used help seeking clinical support. It is helpful to recognize that we people manage their suicidal ideation and behavior. DBT are living in unprecedented times and countless others are is often used tothetreat who or have experiencing samethose feelings.

Noattempt one is insuicide this alone.

We recurrent ideation andbut behaviors.

These short-term may besuicidal physically distanced, we can still connect with interactive therapies been proven make a difference. one another.

We arehave in this together, andtowe will get through

There is no single falling asleep. reason someone takes their life. It is usually a combination of risk factors that could include it together.

A recent survey the Centers forcomponents.

Disease Control showed Suicide is preventable and should not be the outcome for both biological andfrom environmental Some that anxiety and depression symptoms were substantially a mental illness when there is treatment available. There is risk factors include family history of suicide and/or mental higher than reported in 2019. During late June 2020, 40% of help and there is hope. Together we can. illness, alcohol and substance abuse, serious physical health JTCONNECT is dedicated to raising US adults reported struggling with mental health or substance conditions including pain, prolonged periods of stress or awareness about mental illness and use. And adults are not the only ones under pressure. The isolation, and the inability to access mental health treatment, suicideARE prevention, providing education CDC reported that compared to the same period last year, IF YOU EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL amongemergency others. room visits related to mental health for children to the community, and connecting THOUGHTS or know someone whopeople is, you can support and resources.

ForLifeline more at aged 5-11 increased 24% and adolescents 12-17 callthrough the National Suicide Prevention Most people who die by by suicide willfor show warningaged signs. increased by 31%. information, visit Facebook and Instagram 1-800-273-TALK or reach the Crisis Text Line by They may talk about feeling hopeless and that they have @JeffersonTownshipConnect or email texting TALK to 741741.

The to pandemic so much and uncertainty no reason live or has feelcaused like they are astress burden to others. in JeffersonTownshipConnect@gmail.com. everyday that it in is easy get caught up in the whatThere is often alifechange theirtomood or behavior, such if cycle.useWeof think the future, worry about what as increased drugsabout or alcohol, withdrawing from canisolating happen, from and then startand responding as if itgoodbye has already activities, friends family, saying happened. time, this can lead to feeling less inshow control to loved ones, orOver giving things away.

They may even and less able to cope. As stated by Dr. Jane Webber, professor signs of a sudden improvement or relief, knowing they have of counselor education at Kean University, “our sympathetic made the decision to end their life. nervous system can only stay in an overwhelmed, almost

freneticmay statefind for so long before we crash.”

Some people it difficult to talk to a family member or friend who they suspect could be suicidal. important Many people have turned to alcohol toIt’s cope with their to not anxiety. argue, judge, or debate suicide is right or While alcohol can whether reduce those feelings temporarily, wrong,itbut instead and and concern the person changes theshow levelssupport of serotonin otherfor neurotransmitters and beinpatient.

When talking to someone, it’s best to the brain – which can worsen anxiety, especially for be those whohonest alreadyand have a disorder.

Other coping when open and don’t be afraid to ask directstrategies questions facing anxiety healthier ways to manage like “Do you overwhelming have a plan for how offer you would kill yourself?” stress and navigate difficult situations.

Asking someone if they are thinking about suicide will not put theIt idea in theirtohead.

You ofcan ask happening them if you can us, is important be aware what’s around call someone like their psychiatrist or the National Suicide and it is also okay to take a break from the news and social Prevention Lifeline.

If you believe someone at immediate media.

Too much information can get usisstuck in that whatcycle, imagining the worst-case scenarios.

Try them to focus risk, doif not leave them alone and call 9-1-1 or take on whatemergency is happening locally rather than Because to the nearest room.

If someone canglobally. get through anxietyand can short, come from thingsofthat are out of ourcrisis, control, the intense, moment active suicidal chances are they will not die by suicide.

From the Community, For the Community

23

DUAL-STREAM RECYCLING IN JANUARY

By Carol Punturieri

S

ince 2015, residents have enjoyed the simplicity of singlestream curbside recycling – placing all recyclables into one container rather than separating out paper and cardboard.

However, residents must resume dual-stream recycling beginning the week of January 3, with items placed at the curb by 6 a.m.

Jefferson’s current vendor, Blue Diamond Disposal, was the only bidder for the 2021 garbage and recycling contract. At the township council’s September meeting, business administrator Debra Millikin noted that there is no longer a market for single-stream recycling. According to recycling coordinator Patty Romano, the new dual-stream schedule will alternate weekly pickup between commingled items and paper/cardboard.

Covered 32-gallon receptacles with handles are recommended for all recyclables, although residents may use any receptacle weighing no more than 50 pounds when full. Plastic bags may not be used as recycling containers and will not be picked up – except for shredded paper in a transparent bag.

COMMINGLED RECYCLABLES All commingled items should be clean, dry, and empty with loose caps and lids removed. Acceptable: glass bottles and jars; aluminum, steel, and tin cans; milk, yogurt, sour cream, and detergent containers; juice and soup stock cartons/boxes; plastic tubs/bottles (such as soda bottles) marked with a recycling symbol or code 1, 2, or 5 only.

1

2

5

PP

HDPE

PP

PAPER AND CARDBOARD RECYCLABLES Acceptable: paper; junk mail; magazines; newspaper; paperboard (such as cereal/cracker boxes); corrugated cardboard boxes (flattened or with smaller boxes inside a bigger box). Place paper and cardboard in a receptacle – do not tie into bundles. Separate shredded paper from other paper and cardboard and place in a transparent plastic bag.

UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS – PLACE IN GARBAGE Non-recyclable: water bottle caps; Styrofoam (even with recycling symbols); hangers; pots and pans; flowerpots; ceramics and dishes; light bulbs; mirrors; window glass; broken glass; aluminum plates, foil, and trays; waxed paper; ice cream containers; pizza boxes with oil stains; plastic bags, trays, utensils, straws, and cups; toys; personal protective equipment (plastic gloves, face masks, and hand wipes).

RECYCLING/GARBAGE DISTRICTS

District

Recycling

Garbage

1 – Milton

Monday

Tuesday, Friday

2 – Milton

Thursday

Tuesday, Friday

3 – Lakeside

Tuesday

Monday, Thursday

4 – Lakeside

Friday

Monday, Thursday

For a list of streets in each district, refer to www.jeffersontownship.net/207/Pick-up-Schedule-by-Area or contact the Department of Public Works at 973-208-3639. Blue Diamond observes the following six holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas.

24

Commingle – Week of:

Paper – Week of:

January 3, 17, 31 February 14, 28 March 14, 28 April 11, 25 May 9, 23 June 6, 20 July 4, 18 August 1, 15, 29 September 12, 26 October 10, 24 November 7, 21

January 10, 24 February 7, 21 March 7, 21 April 4, 18 May 2, 16, 30 June 13, 27 July 11, 25 August 8, 22 September 5, 19 October 3, 17, 31 November 14, 28

Updates, alerts, and information on extenuating circumstances affecting recycling and garbage pickup as well as possible rescheduled dates (due to weather, for example) are announced through the township’s RAVE emergency alert system.

For more information, visit www.jeffersontownship.net/421/ RAVE-Emergency-Alerts.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP RECYCLING CENTER All recyclables that are picked up curbside can also be brought December 5, 19 December 12, 26 to the recycling center; hazardous waste and latex paint are not accepted. The center is open Wednesdays 9-1 and Saturdays 9-2 with access from the Department of Public Works driveway, 4 Sparta Mountain Road at the intersection with Weldon Road. Recycling labels denoting commingled and paper/cardboard are free from the DPW office or municipal building receptionist. Labels may be placed on individual receptacles for clarity.

THE BACK STORY A survey regarding garbage and recycling generated more than 2,000 responses indicating that residents wanted no changes to the current contract. Therefore, the town tried to mirror the last contract. The final agreement was one of four proposed by Blue Diamond, all of which entailed a return to dual-stream recycling. However, the selected proposal maintains twice-a-week garbage collection, vegetative waste schedules (first Wednesday in April through second Wednesday in December), and Christmas tree pickup ( January). Romano noted that few towns offer garbage pickup twice a week. In fact, towns are not required to provide pickup at all, and homeowners in many communities contract privately for services.

The new Blue Diamond contract runs through 2025 with a 1.4% increase the first year and 3% in subsequent years, totaling $13,734,000 over five years. According to Wilsusen, the average homeowner will pay $297 in 2021 for “soup to nuts” service and the tax will increase $27.96 annually, based on an average assessed home value of $320,919.

MORE INFORMATION Details on disposing of bulk waste, bulk metal, vegetative waste, homeowner construction debris, brush, tires, batteries, e-waste, furniture, appliances, and other material is available at www. jeffersontownship.net/201/Recycling-Garbage-Collection.

Residents can download the free “Recycling Coach” app funded by the state for information on recycling and disposal programs. Available at the Apple App Store (iPhone) and Google Play (Android), the app displays for specific addresses a personalized calendar, pickup and event reminders, what-can-be-recycled-where search tool, collection requirements, and more. For additional information, contact Erica Vinales in the Department of Public Works at 973-208-3639 or the municipal building receptionist at 973-697-1500.

Reduce, reuse, recycle!

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

NEW SCOREBOARD AT JTHS FOOTBALL FIELD

By Geoff Magliocchetti (photo courtesy of Bob and Jen Westerfield)

W

ith the help of generous donors and loyal sponsors, Friday nights at Jefferson Township High School have looked a little brighter.

A new scoreboard was unveiled in October at the school’s football field, which also hosts soccer and field hockey events. The lively display sports a falcon-adorned arch and the names of new sponsors who helped make its construction possible. Names of several major sponsors flank a videoboard that showcases more advertisements as well as public service announcements and Jefferson-related imagery throughout the event taking place on the field.

Even prior to the finishing touches, the screen played a memorable role during the football team’s Senior Night festivities on October 2, the 2020 opener. As each senior player, cheerleader, and band member was introduced to the socially distanced crowd during a halftime ceremony, the scoreboard prominent-

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ly displayed the student’s name and image. Jefferson won that game in a 21-0 final over West Milford.

The completed project was on prominent display at several high school events, including the boys’ soccer team’s 1-0 win over Newton in October.

“We have a beautiful campus and we really want to have a lot of school pride in it,” said athletic director William Koch. “I think, if you look at our scoreboard from last year, we did have some technical difficulties, especially during intense games. The scoreboard was so antiquated that we couldn’t even get parts to fix it. It was an obsolete piece of equipment.” He added, “I think the one we have now complements our beautiful facility and our beautiful environment, which we do hard work to preserve.”

Koch was pleased that the school was able to finalize the threeyear project in the midst of trying times. He confirmed that no public funds were used in the scoreboard’s construction. Instead, it was completed through contributions from donors and sponsors. In-house assistance also came from the school’s caretakers and groundskeeping staff. “I’m very proud of it and the team that was behind it,” he said. “I couldn’t be more grateful and appreciative of our donors. I think it’s an element of school pride.”

The following local businesses that sponsored the project will appear on both the scoreboard and signage throughout the field.

Carbon Express

John Matthes Septic Service

D&R Paving

Lakeland Bank

Fables Restaurant

Leon’s Cleaning and Services

FD Edison Gallagher Risk Management Gillespie Group Jefferson Family Smiles Jefferson Recycling Jimmy Geez North

Live the Lake NJ Royal Buick GMC Skylands Medical Group Tailored Landscaping and Construction

The scoreboard was not the only project Koch was pleased to showcase. Renovations were completed on a new one-loop, five-kilometer cross-country course through the entire high school campus as well as Mahlon Dickerson Reservation and the former Snow Bowl ski area. The course has already hosted a varsity meet for both the boys’ and girls’ programs.

From the Community, For the Community

25

PROFILE

THE GOOD FIGHT

By Jim Dougherty (photo by Christopher Bean Photography, LLC)

I

t can be easy to forget, living in a town like Jefferson, that we did not all get here by the same path. While there is no official dress code, we embody a certain sameness out and about in our daily lives.

This behavior probably is not unique to our town, but in it there is an identity we can recognize as familiar. Our similarities give us a sense of belonging, and there is strength in that unity. But our similarities can also obscure our differences, which offer another kind of strength.

When Gina Valerio moved to Jefferson, it was not more of “the same old thing” for her. In every sense, this was a step into the unknown. And though she expected to be inconspicuous in day-to-day life about town, she apparently could not help standing out. Gina’s path has carried her through twists of fate that would leave Charles Dickens skeptical. She has tasted luxury and she has tasted hunger.

She has known more of the extremes of the human condition than many folks would care to consider. She has quietly arrived as our neighbor and has quite suddenly found a niche that surprises her perhaps more than it does anyone else.

Gina grew up in the foster care system; she was born needing medical intervention to wean her from the dependencies of an addicted mother. She spent time in group homes scrapping for what she could get and lived with 35 families by age 9. Although her young life had little consistency, security, support, or trust, it was the life she knew and she made the most of it. But such an existence offered few of the comforts some take for granted in a community like ours.

When Gina was eventually adopted by a family, instead of getting better, her life became decidedly worse. She was no longer one of many in a faceless and senseless system; she was the specific target of cruelty and violence and manipulation. Gina had to pit her savvy and wiles against those of the very people who were supposed to care. Her path carried her from one fire into another and she became a survivor – a fighter. There was safety only in victory, and victory was fleeting. Many battles she lost, but she was determined not to quit.

At times she experienced opulence and kindness, and also learned the value in the bitter taste of forgiveness. She went through loss, sacrifice, struggle, and fortune both good and bad, knowing little of the mundane life of a small woodsy town.

MOVING TO JEFFERSON In 2016, Gina moved to Jefferson with her family, expecting the new location to be just a stop along the way. They needed to escape a situation that was bad and getting worse, involving an unsafe house and an unscrupulous landlord. With no prior experience, she turned to the GoFundMe internet fundraising platform and connected with some community resources in order to obtain what was needed to make the move.

She thought Jefferson might offer a quiet place to get some rest. Maybe she could find a job to help out with the bills. Maybe her kids would do all right in the schools here. She was not looking for much more than a chance for quiet anonymity and perhaps a chance for some simple happiness. That first December, money was tight. Having

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Gina Valerio pictured in her home with three of her five children, Jayden, Kira and Aries.

learned the value of asking for help, she reached out to the community to make a joyous Christmas – not for herself, but for her children.

The outpouring from this community still brings tears to her eyes.

In February of 2020, struggling economically like so many of our neighbors, facing uncertain times ahead and wrestling with the fear and confusion, Gina noticed a need. She kept hearing a call for cloth facemasks. In a quirky turn of fortune, she had received a sewing machine as a wedding gift although, given her background, she hadn’t had much experience in such arts. But she figured that a sewing machine would sew if she learned how to use it, and if she could sew, she could start making masks. This was a chance to give back to the community that had rallied to her aid.

The first face coverings were awkward and sometimes laughable, but Gina turned to the internet and honed her skills. Soon she started producing some very passable masks. She brought them

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TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

to hospitals, handed them out to first responders and police, donated them to the first aid squads, and distributed them to friends and neighbors. Eventually running low on materials, she did what had by then become second nature: reached out on Facebook to Jefferson Township Moms and Dads. Cloth and thread poured in and masks were turned out.

BEYOND MASKS After a time, as her masks became highly sought, it took some convincing by her compassionate but pragmatic husband for Gina to start selling them. She kept half the proceeds for her family and donated half to the New Hope food pantry here in town – and continued donating masks where they could be helpful. As that need waned, Gina became aware of a family in need of funds to move. Reminded of her own recent predicament, she put her skills to use by raising the money, but channeled that aid through an organization equipped to deal with the family’s situation. There are those who would take advantage of good will, but Gina is certainly nobody’s fool. The family was able to find a new home with access to the resources and support required to truly make a new beginning.

Then, like a bolt, uncertainty struck Gina’s own home. Instinctively she reached out to the community for help and, once again, the community answered. Despite having enough to pay only one last bill, her family became able to meet financial obligations, keep the house, and find new economic security.

Without realizing it, Gina’s fighting spirit had found a new purpose – instead of fighting “against,” she has begun to fight “for.” In October, she learned that an acquaintance was in pretty serious straits and sent

out the call; again the town rallied. Over the past few months, Gina has found ways to help many families and individuals, some of whom need a little and others who need a bit more. The community has shown no fatigue in doing its part, and for her part, she says, “I can’t stop – I just don’t have it in me!”

In many ways, Jefferson remains a puzzle to Gina. “The people can seem so closed off to each other, like they have blinders on,” she quietly reflects. “But give them an opportunity to help, and they never fail to go above and beyond.” That is where Gina Valerio finds her special purpose. She realizes that although she does not have much to give, she can bring her strengths to bear: continue to recognize need and become the solution; be the liaison between those who want and those who want to help; and unabashedly ask for assistance on behalf of those too meek or embarrassed to ask for themselves. (Gina is unapologetically not shy.)

“I guess I don’t understand,” she muses. “It’s like everyone is fine going about their business. But then you give them the chance to come together, and they just shine! Every time – they just shine!” Gina gets misty thinking of the generosity she finds daily. Beneath the surface of our similarities, each of us has unique talents, gifts, and strength to share. Alone we can do so little, but united we can do so much.

It took a unique individual to rally the collective good that lives in this community … to set our best intentions to new and useful ends.

An unassuming woman from meager means has had a direct hand in the salvation of countless families by finding a way to unite us around what is good – by speaking to our best nature. It says something about Jefferson Township that a windblown seed has been able to take root and bloom so beautifully among us, and we are the luckier to have her.

Keep an eye out, because Gina has just begun to fight.

From the Community, For the Community

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FOR WHAT IT’S WORTH GHOST OF CHRISTMAS EVE MASS

By Tony Haryn

T

his story takes place some 56 years ago on Christmas Eve. I was an altar boy and was partnered with my best friend, Kurt, to serve Mass at our church. This was an honor back then and this was my first Christmas Eve Mass. I had served more than 40 funerals because I always had a sad look on my face, so I was excited about this Mass.

The church was as big as a cathedral with high ceilings, and could fit more than 500 people. It was also scary – especially at night.

Any creak or sound would echo through the old building. There were rumors that down under the church was a coffin that held the remains of a saint. (Actually, it was the bingo hall, and if there was a Saint Bingo, he was there!)

Well, on this night it started to snow and it was quiet. Kurt and I got to the church around 11:00 to light the candles and make sure the altar was organized and neat. Altar boys had our own room where we kept our vestments and the equipment to set up for Mass.

Downstairs was our bathroom and the entrance to the basement.

That door was always kept locked, and with the stories of coffins and dead saints, we left well enough alone.

The snow was now coming down heavier. The church was pitch black except for the candles burning in the back and on the main altar. The only real light came from the altar boys’ room. Kurt and I were dressed in our vestments and talking about everything two 12-year-old boys talk about when we heard a noise from downstairs.

We both stood up at the same time, frozen in our spots and listening intently. There was no one in that church but us, so what was the noise? There it went again! The hairs on the back of my neck were standing up; this was getting spooky. Then the downstairs door opened, and Kurt and I looked at each other, still unable to move. The sounds of feet walking up the old wooden stairway were accompanied by the sounds of chains. Although Kurt and I could not speak or move our legs, we grabbed each other’s arms.

What came into view was the black hood of someone or something climbing the stairs and dragging chains behind him or it.

At this point, both Kurt and I screamed, and the figure on the steps turned to reveal … Karl, the church handyman! It seems that Karl’s supply room was downstairs (that’s why the door was always locked) and since it was snowing, he was getting the tire chains for the church’s Jeep.

Kurt and I sat back down and looked at each other, relieved that we were not attacked by Saint Bingo’s ghost, but not happy that we froze and screamed like two little girls at the first sign of danger.

Then we laughed our heads off! When the monsignor walked in, he must have thought we were crazy. But we never told anyone about what happened – not him, not our friends, not our families, no one … until now.

To my readers, Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

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INSIGHTS AND EXPERTISE: LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE EVER

THE FIRST, THE ONLY, THE LAST

By Janet Pfeiffer

S

t. Thomas Church has been graced with a new pastor, Father Ben Williams. I’m not accustomed to hearing Mass celebrated with such passion and enthusiasm, yet this is precisely his style. After church recently, I expressed my appreciation to him by saying, “Each time I attend Mass officiated by you, I leave feeling exhilarated.”

Father Ben replied, “When I was ordained, it was suggested that I say every Mass as though it were my first one, as though it were my only one, and as though it were my last one.” It was obvious that this recommendation became the very foundation upon which he built his vocation as a priest.

As I drove home, I reflected on his message: “the first one, the only one, the last one.’” I considered how his philosophy could be applied to other areas of life. Imagine for a moment living each day as if it were the first one we were given, or as if it were the only one we’d ever have, or as if we knew it would be our last one before leaving this world. Would we choose to live differently than we do now, and what would life look like if we did?

Remember your first date with that special someone, wanting everything to be so perfect that you were fully mindful of your every word and action? Or consider that once-in-a-lifetime event you planned – a wedding or family vacation – that consumed every ounce of your creative genius so as to be flawless in all ways? Have you lingered in the tenderness of saying farewell to a loved one called to serve his or her country, knowing this might be the last moment you would share?

Humans frequently function in a state of indifference, enduring mundane lives of mindless routines oblivious to the opportunities and gifts presented to them every day. But consider for a moment following Father Ben’s philosophy and how impassioned living could transform your existence. Imagine the impact it could have on your relationship if you treated your spouse with the same wonder and awe every day as you did when you met. Envision a phone conversation with your best friend as if it were the only one you would be privileged to share. Would you cherish having dinner with your mom if you thought it might be your last meal together?

Realistically, very few of us will choose to live life as enthusiastically as Father Ben celebrates every Mass. Even so, periodically throughout the day, we can all take time to practice the protocol set forth by him.

In that precise moment, we can live as if it were the first, the only, or the very last one.

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY: Each row, column and set of 3-by-3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 through 9 without repetition.

1

DIFFICULTY RATING:

5 2 7 2 6 3 9 5 1 4 5 9 1 2 2 5 9 7 1 2 1 8 5 3 2 8 9 3

3 2

5

3 6 5 9 2 7 2 4 9

6 2 5

DIFFICULTY RATING:

9 1 4

8 6

7

9

6 5

1

8

4

2

3

6

7

7 7 3 2 2 3 3 5 5 8 9 4 6 2

2

DIFFICULTY RATING:

6 2 5 6 7 2 2 3 5 9 7 4 8 7 9 5 2 5 6 9 2 3 7 1 1 3 5 4 1 5 3 7 2 8 9 9 8 4 7 6 1 4

5

7

3

DIFFICULTY RATING:

7 3 5

9

2 1 5 3 9 1 6 7 9 5 1 9 6 8 6 4 7 5 2 4 8 3 9 4 Answer key for puzzle on page 34

© 2020 Dist. by Andrews McMeel Syndication for UFS

From the Community, For the Community

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30

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

CROSSWORD Edited by David Steinberg December 14, 2020 Wooden Food by Mark Feldman

ACROSS

1 Well-toned 5 Understood yet unstated 10 One might be ketogenic 14 Continent where Buddhism originated 15 Last Greek letter 16 Former education secretary Duncan 17 *Meaty sandwich (note each starred answer’s last word) 19 U.S. immigration policy 20 Willies 21 Words before “formality” or “rule” 23 “___ ’em!” (“Attack!”)

24 Many-headed monster 25 Journalist Curry 27 Pelvic bones 29 *It may soak up pasta sauce 31 Find as the source 35 Demolition result 36 Steering system bars 37 Foods often served in corn husks 38 Political refugee, say 39 Fried chicken chain 40 *Iced tea garnish 42 Gladden 43 Top bond rating 44 That is, in Latin 49 Thing you might bum, informally 50 Squealer or squeaker 52 Lack of caring 53 Leave out 55 *Snack item that may be ridged 58 Tiny M&Ms size 59 Jewish festival with hamantaschen 60 Medal of Honor recipient 61 Bit of choreography 62 Wakes up 63 Torah holders

© 2020 Andrews McMeel Universal / www.upuzzles.com

DOWN

1 Holiday cookie quantity 2 Loan shark’s practice 3 Dismissed from a job 4 Phony person 5 Pekes and Poms 6 “Better Call Saul” network 7 Animation unit 8 Large lizard 9 Bar bills 10 “Pops” 11 Cantankerous 12 Runs rings around?

13 Scone relatives

18 Org. concerned with recycling 22 Take for granted 25 Fine ___ degree 26 Prefix for “natal” 28 Held in check 29 Moisten with morning droplets 30 Arrange, like a shawl 31 Test restriction 32 Conceive in a new light 33 Lingo (GATOR anagram) 34 Where two edges of a jigsaw puzzle meet 36 Verizon and T-Mobile 37 Roman robe

From the Community, For the Community

39 Hugging in public, e.g., briefly 41 Go to a restaurant 44 Wall St. debut 45 Russian villa 46 Heavens, in poetry 47 Avoid, as responsibility 48 Proofreading finds 51 iPad programs 52 24-hr. banking conveniences 54 Bit of advice 56 First part of TNT 57 Vanish into thin ___ Answer key for puzzle on page 34

31

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TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

IN BRIEF POLICE STATION COSTS RISING

By Sue Toth

T

he planned addition to the police station is at a current cost of $2,382,000, which includes construction, lockers, floors, and furniture for the upgrade. Of that cost, $1,952,000 is for construction. The township council currently has $750,000 bonded for the project from 2018.

“The cost of the addition came in higher than anticipated,” said township administrator Debra Millikin. “We will have a bond coming in for approval in January for the remainder of the costs.”

Millikin said that the price of wood and sheetrock has gone up because of Covid.

In addition, police chief Paul Castimore has met with Department of Corrections regarding the Jefferson’s jail cells.

The current cells have bars, which are no longer acceptable; however, the township has received exemptions for the cells, which are set to expire in 2021.

“The cells can’t have bars any longer, because there can’t be anything available that a prisoners could tie something to in order to take their own life,” Castimore said.

The new cells will have sliding doors with small holes in them. There will also be one cell that is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“We will have to do the jail cells as a capital project to get the new doors,” Castimore said.

The new doors should cost between $200,000 and $300,000.

The project will need to be completed by August 2022.

Castimore further noted that porcelain fixtures were removed from the them and new light bulbs were installed to make the cells brighter.

TOWN HALL HOLIDAY TREE LIT VIRTUALLY Photo by Christopher Bean Photography, LLC

C

ovid-19 didn’t stop the holiday season from coming to Jefferson Township. While folks couldn’t gather in person, town officials planned and executed a virtual tree lighting on December 4. Santa arrived to greet viewers to the event on the township’s Facebook page.

From the Community, For the Community

33

PUZZLE ANSWERS Wonderword answer: Gossip

34

1

5 4 9 2 8 7 3 6 1

7 2 6 4 3 1 5 9 8

1 8 3 6 9 5 2 4 7

8 9 1 3 6 4 7 5 2

3 7 5 9 1 2 4 8 6

2 6 4 5 7 8 9 1 3

9 5 7 1 2 6 8 3 4

4 1 8 7 5 3 6 2 9

6 3 2 8 4 9 1 7 5

2

8 7 6 3 1 2 9 4 5

9 1 4 8 6 5 7 2 3

2 3 5 9 7 4 8 1 6

4 8 7 1 9 3 5 6 2

5 6 9 4 2 8 3 7 1

1 2 3 7 5 6 4 9 8

6 4 1 5 3 7 2 8 9

3 9 8 2 4 1 6 5 7

7 5 2 6 8 9 1 3 4

3

3 9 5 6 4 7 8 2 1

2 1 6 5 8 3 9 7 4

8 4 7 9 2 1 5 3 6

5 3 1 7 9 2 6 4 8

6 7 9 4 3 8 2 1 5

4 2 8 1 5 6 7 9 3

1 8 4 2 6 9 3 5 7

7 6 2 3 1 5 4 8 9 9 5 3 8 7 4 1 6 2

4

8 6 9 4 2 1 3 7 5

2 7 1 6 3 5 4 9 8

5 3 4 7 9 8 1 6 2

6 5 2 8 7 4 9 1 3

7 4 3 5 1 9 2 8 6

9 1 8 2 6 3 5 4 7

1 9 7 3 5 6 8 2 4

4 2 5 1 8 7 6 3 9

3 8 6 9 4 2 7 5 1

TheJeffersonChronicle.com Print Edition • New Year 2021

From the Community, For the Community

35