No. 3 Vol. 4
April 2021
Cedar Grove Free Little Pantry Feeds People in Need
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By: Lindsey Kelleher here’s a new way to put food on the table for people who are struggling. The Free Little Pantry of Cedar Grove has just about all your non-perishable needs. Township resident Lisa Conforti and the Rev. Sarah Welch-Pomerantz from Cedar Grove Community Church spearheaded the idea in Cedar Grove after seeing Free Little Pantries pop up in other nearby communities. Welch-Pomerantz said people need food now more than ever before due to pandemic-related job losses and other woes from the shattered economy. “With the pandemic on the rise, there was an increase in food insecurities,” Welch-Pomerantz said. “I’ve received more requests for food cards like for ACME, Shop Rite, etc. during the past year than I have in my whole pastorship before the pandemic.” The Free Little Pantry of Cedar Grove was designed as a quick and discrete way to help those with food insecurities. Its setup is like that of a Free Little Library because anyone can donate food to or take food from the pantry, which is a wooden box located at Cedar Grove Community Church. Residents and non-residents of Cedar Grove can give or take food at any hour, which makes it different from a traditional food pantry which usually has set pick-up or drop-off hours.
“Some people are too embarrassed or feel badly about their situation and don’t want people to know about their struggle so they can go at night,” said Conforti. “You don’t know who is putting food in or taking food out.” Volunteers visit the box every day to make sure it is stocked and properly cared for, Conforti said. The Free Little Pantry of Cedar Grove is part of the Little Free Pantry movement to raise awareness about food insecurities. The movement started in 2016 in Fayetteville, Ark. when Jessica McClard planted a wooden box on a post that contained food, personal care and paper items, according to the website littlefreepantry.org. Anyone was welcome to give or take the items. The movement has grown ever since then. Some other New Jersey municipalities that have Little Free Pantries include Montclair, East Orange, Princeton, New Brunswick and Manahawkin. A complete list of Little Free Pantries in New Jersey may be found on the Little Free Pantry’s website, littlefreepantry.org. The Free Little Pantry of Cedar Grove Location: Cedar Grove Community Church 65 Bowden Road Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 How to get involved: Bring or take non-perishable items such as but not limited to oatmeal, canned soups, canned vegetables, boxes of pasta, etc.
People can donate non-perishable food items to the Free Little Pantry of Cedar Grove, which helps individuals with a need to feed themselves and their families. People may give or take items from the pantry box seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Photo by Lindsey Kelleher
Food is placed in or taken from the white wooden box on the church’s property. Hours of operation: Sunday through Saturday, 24 hours a day. Who to contact: To learn more about the Free Little Pantry of Cedar Grove, email township resident
Lisa Conforti at confortilisa@gmail.com. Visit the Cedar Grove Township website, cedargrovenj.org. Then go to https:// cedargrovenj.org/2021/03/02/the-freelittle-pantry-of-cedar-grove/. or Like the Free Little Pantry of Cedar Grove’s Facebook page, CG Free Little Pantry.
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The State of Travel Sports… “What Are We doing?”
Courtesy Robert Porfido ast fall my son tried out for the Passaic Valley Junior Hornets 12U 2021 Spring/Summer Travel Baseball Team, and did not make the team. When I asked why my son did not make the team I was told that my son and three other kids did not make the team. I was also told that the team would be carrying 11players for the 2021 season, and that because the numbers were down that there would not be a B squad. Yes, I was disappointed, not only for my son, but for all of the kids that were not going to get an opportunity to play. These kids are not going to experience playing on a competitive team, are not going to get a chance to keep developing their skills, and are not going to get a chance to learn the values of commitment and the life lesson of working hard to become better at something! The thing that was troubling to me was that only 11 players were being selected from Totowa, Woodland Park, and Little Falls. My question was why did any of the kids have to be told that they did not make the team? Why can’t you carry fifteen players, even if they all don’t play? At the very least they would be able to practice and continue developing their skills. Why not give more kids an opportunity, and not determine their athletic fate at 12 years old? What are we doing? I was told that carrying more kids would take playing time away from the kids who have already played on the team. Please understand I am not writing this article as a disgruntled parent, and I am in no way trying to discredit anyone affiliated with the Junior Hornets. I am writing this for all of those kids and parents that have had the same expe-
rience, in hopes of maybe changing the mindset and approach for the selection of future players for travel baseball teams. I was prepared to just move on, sign my kid up for recreation baseball, and leave it alone. Then I came across an article by John Sullivan that was so dead on with what I experienced, that I felt the need to share it with others that have shared the same experience. The following Excerpts are taken from that article which is titled, Our Biggest Mistake: Talent Selection Instead of Talent Identification. 1. Many youth sports coaches claim to be great talent identifiers. Yet they are not talent identifiers. They are talent selectors. The difference could not be more striking, or more damaging to our country’s future talent pool in many sports. • Talent selection is the culling of players with the current ability to participate and be successful in events taking place in the near future. Talent identification, on the other hand, is the prediction of future performance based upon an evaluation of current physical, technical, tactical and psychological qualities. Talent selection is pretty simple; talent identification is an art. One yields great results today; the other builds elite athletes and winning teams for the future. When you are focused on talent selection, you are picking athletes to help you win now, and cutting ones that will not. You are looking at current athleticism, technical ability, and traits to help achieve short term success. You naturally select the biggest, strongest and fastest young athletes, and play them extensive minutes. You limit playing time for the kids who are not up to snuff, and tell them they need to work harder, get tougher, etc., if they
want to play more. • Talent identifiers are searching for young players who may not be elite athletes yet, but possess the physical and psychological attributes to eventually become one. Perhaps they have not yet grown, or been exposed to high level coaching. Perhaps they are not as skillful yet, but show a high level of coachability, sensitivity to training, and the motivation to learn. Identifying talent requires the skill to weigh all the physical, physiological, psychological, and technical components of an athlete, as well as a measure of “gut instinct” of which kid has what it takes to become elite, and which kid does not. 2. American youth sports are far too often focused on talent selection, and not talent identification. We are not identifying and developing the kids who are most likely to become elite competitors after puberty. This is why nations with 1/100th of our population can compete with us on a world stage in many sports. They actually identify and develop future talent, instead of selection based upon current results. How do we fix this? Here are a few simple thoughts for youth sports that to be honest, should not be that hard to implement: • Stop cutting players at young ages, and develop large numbers of players instead of just the elite ones. I recently read that Sweden, for example, produces more NHL players per capita than any other country and they do not cut players till age 17. Hmmm. • Focus on developing all players at the youngest ages, with particular attention given to helping the less skilled ones catch up technically to the stronger ones. Thus, when continued on page 9
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Sprains and Strains
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any people often overlook sprains and strains simply because they can occur during routine actions and may not even hurt right away. Complications, including long-term bone damage or recurring pain spasms, can become permanent issues if you don’t receive the proper treatment. What are Sprains and Strains? People often consider sprains and strains as the same issue, but that’s not exactly correct. Sprains happen when ligaments that connect two bones in a joint are overstretched and, in some cases, tear. A strain is damage that occurs to the muscles or tendons that connect bone to muscle. Causes of Sprains and Strains Despite their differences, the causes of sprains and strains are quite similar. These injuries can be caused by: • Racquet sports: Sports that involve constant foot movement with quick pivots and turns can lead to a sprain or strain, e.g., Tennis, Badminton, etc. • Awkward landings: When a person is falling, they may instinctively attempt to break the fall by quickly stepping forward. This motion can lead to twists, sprains or broken bones in the foot or ankle. • Injuries from contact sports: Activities like basketball, soccer, and football can result in sudden impacts from other players. Unexpected contact or falls can result in injury. Many players who are hurt in these sports suffer from sprains or strains. • Lifting heavy objects: People who carry or move heavy items as part of their daily activities are more likely
to regularly sustain sprains and strains. Proper lifting techniques are critical to avoid injury. • Standing in awkward positions: Many office or factory employees spend several hours on their feet. Standing in unnatural positions, not having the proper footwear, or floor mats can put additional stress on the feet and ankles. Risk Factors Certain activities may put you at higher risk for sustaining sprains and strains. Some of those activities include: • Being out of shape: A lack of physical health conditioning leaves the muscles and joints at a higher risk for injury. • Frequent exhaustion: Overuse of muscles or completely tiring yourself out can leave the body unable to cope with excess stress on the joints. • Using improper equipment for daily activities: Improperly using equipment may put unnecessary strain on the body, causing injury. How to Prevent Sprains and Strains Accidents happen, but there are some ways that you can help yourself avoid the likeliness of sprains and strains during regular activity. A few prevention tips include: • Avoid participating in sports when you already feel exhausted. • Maintain a balanced diet. • Always wear appropriate footwear, i.e., non-slip soles on basketball courts or boots that protect the toes and ankles on a job site. • Avoid intense physical activity when you feel pain in
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• Muscle weakness • Pain or tenderness Complications of Sprains or Strains If care is delayed or avoided, additional injuries or more severe symptoms may occur. Complications may include: • Fractures: Fractures can be seen as bumps that appear suddenly or pain that radiates away from the affected area. • Ruptured muscles: Occurs when you are unable to use or tighten the strained muscle. • Cartilage injury: Oc-
Travel Sports…
continued from page 6 they finish their growth spurt, we have a much larger pool of adequately skilled individuals to choose from. • Better educate our coaches to understand the
curs when a tearing sensation is followed by intense pain. Treatment Options The “RICE” technique is recommended as a treatment for both minor sprains and strains. Rest: The patient should avoid using the affected joint to boost the healing process. Ice: Wrap a bag of ice in cloth and place on the affected area for up to 20 minutes. Repeat for the first 24-48 hours following injury. Compression: The af-
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difference between selecting and identifying talent, and then teach and encourage them to develop it. • The best part about making all these changes? We will allow coaches to
actually coach, and develop both better people and better athletes. Will any of this actually happen? Probably not, but I couldn’t agree more with John Sullivan that it should!
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Cedar Grove Fire Department Gets New Truck
he township has a new fire truck that’s in action. The truck replaced the former Engine 73 earlier this year. The engine cost $700,000, according to Cedar Grove Fire Chief James Zaccaria. It was built by Pierce, which is in Appleton, Wis, he said. It was blessed in January by former member Father Bob McLaughlin and members of the Cedar Grove Fire Department. Pictured is the new Engine 73, left, which replaces the old Engine 73, right, at the fire department. Photo courtesy of the Cedar Grove Fire Department.
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County Poster Calendar
hree fourth grade students from the Passaic Valley area have been recognized in 25th Annual 2021 My County Poster Calendar Contest, Passaic County Clerk Danielle Ireland-Imhof announced. Woodland Park's Beatrice Gilmore School fourth grader Victoria Califano took second place with her depiction of the Paterson Falls. Her artwork is shown for the month of October. Beatrice Gilmore School fourth grader Zain Yazaji and Totowa's Washington Park School fourth grader Jewel Heerema both received honorable mentions. Despite this untraditional school year, over 240 submissions were received. All winners received medals and t-shirts, with first, second, and third place winners also receiving gift certificates to Barnes & Noble, courtesy of the Passaic County Clerk’s Office. Copies of the poster will be on display at schools, libraries and government buildings throughout Passaic County.
Making Fruit Salad
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tudents in Ms. Wittig's pre-school class at School 1 in Woodland Park made their own fruit salad. Under adult supervision, they used a plastic knife to cut their
favorite fruit into bite-sized pieces. They also talked about hand washing and healthy eating habits.
Page 12 • April 2021
What is Tendonitis? Courtesy Matthew F. Wachtler, DPM, FACFAS Tendons are tough, but flexible bands of fibrous tissue that attach muscles to bone. Tendonitis is a very common cause of foot or ankle pain—it usually occurs due to inflammation around a tendon. This condition most often is the result of an overuse injury, but improper stretching prior to or incorrect form during physical activity can also contribute to the tendonitis. Symptoms of Tendonitis Tendon injuries can be acute, meaning they occur suddenly, or they can be chronic and develop over a period of time. Pain associated with tendonitis is typically dull and aching, but as the condition worsens, you may experience sharp, burning, or radiating pain around the foot or ankle. Other symptoms of tendonitis include: • Stiffness • Swelling • Weakness • Tenderness Types of Tendonitis The most common forms of tendonitis that affect the foot and ankle include: Achilles tendonitis: The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the foot, and it attaches the calf muscles to the back of the heel. Achilles tendonitis occurs when this tendon becomes inflamed. Posterior tibial tendonitis: This condition occurs when the posterior tibial tendon, which attaches the calf muscle to the bones on the inside of the foot, becomes inflamed or ruptured.
Peroneal tendonitis: The peroneal tendons run down the outside of the ankle just behind the fibula and can become strained and inflamed due to overuse. Flexor tendonitis: The flexor tendon is responsible for stabilizing the toes. Pain may be felt in the arch of the foot or on the inside back of the ankle. Diagnosis and Treatment of Tendonitis Because tendon injuries typically worsen without proper treatment, immediate medical care is usually recommended. To diagnose your condition, your doctor will perform a physical examination and gather your medical history. During the physical examination, your doctor will look for instability, swelling, and weakness. The goal of medical tendonitis treatment is to alleviate pain, and inflammation. The treatment method your doctor recommends will depend on the severity of the condition. For mild tendonitis, your doctor will most likely start with conservative treatments. These might include new shoe recommendations, arch supports or orthotics and prescription braces. For more serious cases of tendonitis, he or she may offer anti-inflammatory or cortisone injections to reduce any immediate pain. When the condition does not respond to noninvasive treatments, minimally invasive surgical procedures may be required. Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists 886 Pompton Ave, Suite A-1 Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 Phone: 973-857-1184
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he Woodland Park School District recently marked Random Acts of Kindness Week. School 1 students created hearts and a kindness tree to post all the kind acts they have been sharing throughout the week. Charles Olbon School and Beatrice Gilmore School students talked about spreading kindness by learning how to be bucket fillers. Everyone has an invisi-
ble bucket that can be filled each day. By saying and doing kind things, a person can fill buckets! Students created their own buckets and did kind things, such as complimenting one another and the teachers. Memorial Middle School students delved deeper into kindness. Classes wrote their own definitions of kindness, learned the science behind kindness, and wrote thank you letters.
Page 14 • April 2021
Senior Brianna DeLuccia Awarded National Girls and Women in Sports Award
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Chelsea Nakhleh'21 n February 3rd, Brianna DeLuccia ’21 was awarded the National Girls and Women in Sports (NGWS) Award by New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA). This prestigious honor is given to female athletes who are leaders both on the field and in the classroom. The NGWS Award honors high school level female athletes who excel in sports. The award is a way to empower women and celebrate the Title IX law, which made it illegal to discriminate against athletes on the basis of sex. “It really showcases girl power,” explained DeLuccia. “ I was so happy to be included on the list with such amazing women. “ DeLuccia, along with female athletes from other New Jersey schools, was honored by the NJSIAA in a virtual ceremony. DeLuccia was unaware that she
was in the running for the award. “I didn't even know I was being considered for it,” DeLuccia explained. “It was such a happy surprise.” Normally, the NJSIAA honors its recipients by hosting an award ceremony at Seton Hall University. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the association made the event virtual to ensure the winners received the recognition they deserve. To win the NGWS Award, one must also have great academic standing along with a myriad of school activities. DeLuccia is a varsity athlete in softball, volleyball, and soccer. She also is a member of the following clubs and societies: National Honor Society, PV Honor Society, World Language Honor Society, Peer Mentoring, Varsity Club, Interact Club, and the Academic Team. On top of all her activities, DeLuccia is in the top ten of her class. DeLuccia credits her success in school, sports, and
activities to her time management skills. “I've been doing sports and school since elementary school, I have gotten really good at time management,” said DeLuccia. “When I'm not doing stuff, I procrastinate. Sports and activities really help me manage my time. There are definitely struggles, but it's worth it.” Coach Kathy Hill (Hornets Softball) and Coach William Robertazzi (Girls Volleyball) both believe that DeLuccia is not only an excellent athlete, but an amazing role model for her teammates. “ DeLuccia is the ultimate teammate. Selfless, passionate, kind, [and] inspirational,” explained Coach Robertazzi. All of her coaches believe she is very deserving of the award. “Her dedication to her academics, coupled with playing two varsity sports, embodies what this award represents,” stated Coach Hill. “Brianna has certainly developed
into an amazing young lady that continues to make me proud each day.” Coach Hill, who has coached DeLuccia since she was eight, has been able to watch DeLuccia grow from a Totowa Tiger to a Passaic Valley Hornet. “I have known her and have had the pleasure of watching her grow and mature since
t-ball, not only as an athlete but as an amazing young lady,” explained Coach Hill. DeLuccia has always appreciated having the encouragement of both her coaches and teammates throughout her time at PV. “While playing sports at PV, I have made some of my best memories,” explained DeLuccia. “My coaches have
always been so supportive and I can’t wait to be on the court and the field one last time with my teammates.” Though she is unsure where she will attend school next year, DeLuccia plans to further her education and major in engineering science. She also hopes to participate in club softball while in college.
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Junior Christopher Perez Accepted into Columbia University Science Honors Program
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Chelsea Nakhleh '21 ast summer, junior Christopher Perez was accepted into the distinguished Columbia University Science Honors Program. Perez attends a weekly Saturday class, via Zoom, hosted by the Ivy League school. His acceptance is a result of Perez’s hard work and dedication to not only the science field, but all his classes. Perez found the program while searching for challenging opportunities in the STEM field. “I was looking online; I wanted to find some STEM opportunities in the area. I found this free program and decided to apply,” explained Perez. “It seemed like a cool opportunity and was taught by STEM professors in Columbia.” Completing the appli-
cation was an extensive process. Perez submitted his application in March of 2020. Applicants sent their transcripts and provided a recommendation letter from a science or math teacher. Mr. William Phillian, Perez’s chemistry teacher, fulfilled that requirement. The application was then followed by an essay prompt in which applicants explained why STEM interests them. After completing the first part of the application, Perez sat for a three hour exam. The exam, which took place in May, is the most difficult part of the application process. It includes two math sections and one science section, with material from biology, chemistry, and physics. This was Perez’s second time applying for the pro-
gram. “I applied my freshman year and didn’t get in. I was pretty disappointed, but when I applied my sophomore year, I knew exactly how to prepare for it,” said Perez. Perez received his acceptance in August of 2020, which served as a reward for all the effort he put in not only to his application, but to his school work as well. Out of almost 2,000 applicants from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, Perez was one of under 400 high school students accepted. The program has a mere 20% acceptance rate. Mr. Phillian believes Perez’s acceptance is a testament to his hard work and determination in school. “It is significant for Perez as a reflection of his academic accomplishments and as a
milestone in his academic pursuits,” stated Mr. Phillian. “It is significant to our school because it demonstrates that a Passaic Valley education can enable a student to qualify for a prestigious honor program at a world-class university.” The program includes both a fall and spring semester and runs throughout the 2020-2021 academic school year. “It's taught by Columbia professors and they have a huge class offering,” explained Perez. “There's no homework and no tests, the whole point is for it to be a learning experience in which they make it as fun as possible.” Perez is grateful for the opportunity he’s received to learn from such a highly regarded institution.
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Courtesy Dr. Gabriel Hannawi, DC
E
lite Spine And Sports Care of Totowa is proud to offer both pre-operative & post-operative conditioning and care in Passaic County NJ. Both pre & post-operative care are essential to not only a successful surgery but also the healing process that occurs following a surgery. This conditioning allows your body and mind to be ready for surgery and healing. Operative Care varies de-
Pre-Operative & Post- Operative Conditioning pending on the patient and the subsequent surgery. Oftentimes, pre-operative conditioning includes cardiological stress-test but it can also include specialized physical therapy exercise to help minimize the negative side-effects of operation as well as lessen the recovery time. Studies show that just one pre-operative physical therapy sessions prior to knee or hip surgery can reduce post-operative care by 29%. This can not only get the patient on their feet faster but also save the patient money in post-operative care. Pre-Operative Care Elite Spine And Sports Care of Totowa offers pre-operative care to patients in Passaic County and the surrounding area. During your appointment, your physical therapist will asses your condition and create a plan to ensure
your surgery and recovery go as smoothly as possible. Pre-operative conditioning and rehabilitation are essential in prepping for surgery. Strengthening and adding stability to the surrounding musculature will help speed up recovery time and tissue healing. The improvement of exercise therapy and muscle strength before surgery and within the first month after surgery is an important outcome measure in the effectiveness of surgery. Post-Operative Care Post-operative care is also an essential aspect of your healing process. Because all surgeries are different, the physical therapists at Elite Spine And Sports Care of Totowa will create a customized plan to get you back on your feet and fully recovered as soon as possible. Post-Operative care is necessary following
surgeries such as knee replacements, hip surgeries, and other physically disabling operations. In order to regain strength in these areas following a surgery, you must remain active. Elite Spine and Sports Care of Totowa can help you remain active, regain your strength and balance and get back on your feet as quickly as possible! Elite Spine and Sports Care of Totowa’s approach is based on the functional model and the dynamic use of manual medicine into physical therapy and rehabilitation. Our experience with Manual Therapy, Instrument Assisted Cross Friction Technique, Therapeutic Modalities and Therapeutic Exercise enables us to treat Post-operative
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April 2021 • Page 19
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Page 20 • April 2021
Find Out How Physical Therapy can Help Improve Your Health, Strength, and Physical Activity!
A
Courtesy Dr Raffaele Lagonigro, PT healthy, strong, and active lifestyle is what everyone strives for. However, it is not always easy to obtain, especially for those suffering from chronic pain. The very thought of going out and exercising with your aches and pains may leave you feeling uncomfortable. However, there is, fortunately, a simpler solution to gaining the active lifestyle you desire. Physical therapy can help you achieve optimum levels of health and fitness, all while reducing your pain. What do physical therapy plans look like? Everyone has different needs based on the conditions of their bodies. There is no cookie-cutter approach to health and wellness, as one treatment plan may not work the same for one person as it would for another. Our physical therapist will work closely with you to evaluate your mobility, balance, range of motion, and severity of pain. Your physical goals will also be taken into account when creating your treatment plan, as well as any health risks that may be holding you back. At your initial evaluation, you may be asked to perform basic movements, such as sitting down, standing up, walking, lifting, stretching, or other motions. Once
our physical therapist has a clear picture of what you need, he or she will begin constructing a treatment plan to help relieve your pain and achieve your goals. How exactly can physical therapy benefit me? The purpose of physical therapy remains the same, no matter what you are seeking its services for. Perhaps you are still suffering from the lingering pain of an injury. Perhaps you are recovering from a surgery and trying to get your range of motion back. Perhaps your joints simply aren’t what they used to be, and you are looking for relief. Whatever the case may be, physical ther-
apists are dedicated to relieving your pain and getting you back to your peak level of physical health. A physical therapist is a movement specialist, educated in analyzing mobility issues with walking, running, jumping, bending, stretching, and almost every other form of physical activity. Our physical therapist can pinpoint problem areas and create a customized treatment plan aimed at improving those areas. Through in-office sessions and at-home exercises, patients strengthen their muscles and joints, improve their balance, build endurance, and experience pain relief, all without the unwanted harmful risks of drugs or surgery. So, what exactly is it? Physical therapy is generally comprised of three important phases: pain relief, strengthening, and functional integration. Some people are apprehensive toward physical therapy because they believe it will hurt them; however, the opposite is usually true. Physical therapy is aimed at pain relief and strengthening, and your physical therapist will make sure that your treatment plan won’t bring you any pain or discomfort. This is achieved through several treatment services, such as ice and heat therapies, stretching, bracing, and ultrasound.
An active lifestyle is also dependent upon movement. Your physical therapist will cater your treatment plan around specific movements designed to increase your strength, flexibility, balance, and overall mobility. He or she will assist you with many of these exercises, but will also provide some simple ones that can be done at home. The end result of physical therapy is living the life you want, free from painful limitations. That can only happen when you apply the concepts you learn from your treatments to the outside world. Our physical therapist is as dedicated as you are, and will encourage you to achieve all the goals you set forth in the beginning. How can I get started? Maintaining a healthy lifestyle takes work, but once you get into the groove of it, it becomes much easier. For example, eating nutritious foods is one of the easiest ways to improve your health (although we know those sweets are hard to kick.) Physical activity is the hardest aspect to get in the habit of doing, especially if you are being held back by chronic pain. Some people try to mask their symptoms with anti-inflammatory or pain-recontinued on page 21
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Physical Therapy can Help... continued from page 20
lieving medications, while others, unfortunately, give up on the idea of being active altogether. Luckily, there is an alternative option: physical therapy. With the help of a physical therapist, it is possible to reclaim your pain-free, healthy lifestyle, and get back to doing the activities you love. Improve your health and lifestyle today with physical therapy!
In the end, an active lifestyle is more than possible, even if you struggle with chronic pain. If you are looking to improve your health, strength, and physical activity, look no further – we are here to help. AIM Orthopedics: Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine 44 Main St., Little Falls, NJ 07424 973-860-0550
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The New Jersey Knights Join the American Basketball Association with WPU Alum at the Helm
3
By Steve Sears 7-year-old Robert Whetham is the founder and owner, General Manager, and Head Coach of the New Jersey Knights, the newest member of the Northeast Division of the American Basketball Association. “I buy the groceries and I cook the meal,” says Whetham, who has created all the social media pages and marketed the young club since its January inception. The Knights will begin play next October for the ABA’s 2021-22 season. Whetham, who grew up in Totowa and played high school and collegiate basketball at Passaic Valley High School and William Paterson University respectively and then moved into the broadcast booth, had a nice introduction to the league. “I ran into a player on the Jersey Express ABA team named Jason Smith while I was refereeing adult league basketball games. He invited me to come meet Marsha Blount, the team owner, and play with and against some of the players on the team in a practice/scrimmage type of situation. I did well enough to be invited back so I stuck around in and out of the lineup as a player and as an assistant coach for parts of three seasons.” Whetham learned a lot about the ABA and how things worked from Blount and the Express organization. “I appreciate how they have given players an opportunity to do what they love to do at a high level for such a long time, myself included. So, without them there is no New Jersey Knights, but I knew that now was the right time for me to start my own franchise because I believe that fate pushed me in this direction.“
In February, Whetham got an early look at his club as they participated in and won the NJ Play Men’s Advanced League Winter Season. The Knights swept all five games
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and won the championship game over the defending Fall season champions by 14 points. The spring league began on April 1st. In March, the Knights took part in Hoopsville, which Whetham calls “the best professional-amateur basketball league in New Jersey. This is the league where the competition is similar to, if not exceeding, the level of competition that is in the ABA and other comparable basketball minor leagues.” Whetham is searching for a home venue for the Knights, who will play about 22 total games, 10 of them at home. He’d like familiar stomping grounds. “My goal is to be able to come to an agreement with William Paterson University and use their Recreation Center for my home games. I would also like to use WPU students as interns at my home events to give them the chance to build their resumes as well.” The roster is still up in the air in terms of the ABA team in October. “It’s not going to be easy,” Whetham says, “but that is why it is important for me to identify the talent that I want to be a part of the organization now and build a core group of guys that are all on the same page, so when we do face challenges, we can work together to overcome them.” Aside from the early goal of building of brand awareness, Whetham would like to accomplish a bunch of longterm goals such as winning the ABA championship, starting an AAU program for high school and middle school players, and placing a Knights player in a paid roster spot overseas. “The possibilities are limitless and I’m all in,” he says.
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April 2021 • Page 23
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By Luigi Luciano have always had an interest in knowing when the products we use today were created. Most of us can’t imagine that there was a time without them. I wanted to take a look at some products and see what their history is. I start with Jell-O, a favorite of millions and as they say, there is always room for Jell-O!! HELLO "There's Always Room for Jell-O." This is the campaign slogan of a simple gelatin dessert that today is known as "America's Most Famous Dessert." The success story is one, the result of advertising and merchandising methods, new and different, never before employed. Salesmen, well-trained, well groomed, well versed in the art of selling went out in "spanking rigs, drawn by beautiful horses" into the roads, byroads, fairs, country gatherings, church socials, and parties to advertise their product. First came teamdrawn wagons, to be followed by smart auto-cars. Pictures, posters, and billboards over the American landscape, as well as page ads in magazines, carried the Jell-O Girl and the six delicious flavors into the American home. In 1845, Peter Cooper dabbled with and patented a product which was "set" with gelatin. Suffice it to say, it never did "jell" with the American public. In 1897, Pearle Wait, a carpenter in LeRoy, was putting up a cough remedy and laxative tea in his home. He experimented with gelatin and came up with a fruit flavored dessert which his wife, May, named Jell-O. He tried to market his product, but he lacked the capital and the experience. In 1899 he sold the trademark to a fellow townsman for the sum of $450. The buyer already had some success in manufacturing and selling. He was one of the best-known manufacturers of proprietary medicines. Orator Frank Woodward was born in North Bergen in 1856 and moved with his family to LeRoy in 1860. Life was not easy for the boy, but no job was too menial for him, because
in his mind every opportunity was a step toward his goal. By 1876 he was making composition balls used by marksmen for target shooting. Then he engaged in the manufacture of a composition nest egg with "miraculous power to kill lice on hens when hatching." This became a widely known and used product in the United States and Canada. On September 9, 1899 he purchased the name and the business of Jell-O from Mr. Wait. The bill of sale bears the name of Everett W. Bishop as witness. Manufacturing was carried on under the supervision of Andrew Samuel Nico of Lyons, NY. Sales were slow and disheartening for the new product, but income from Grain-O remained steady. One day in a gloomy mood "O.F." offered Sam Nico the whole blankety-blank business for $35. This story is vouchsafed by George McHardy. In 1900, the Jell-O name was first used by the Genesee Pure Food Company. The advertising campaign proved so successful that in 1902 Jell-O sales amounted to $250,000. Jell-O prospered and the consensus of the townspeople is carried in a colloquial expression heard in town - "Grain-O, Jell-O, and Nico." From the beginning Jell-O's advertising was directed by William E. Humelbaugh followed by Frank LaBounty. These men began the distribution of recipes and samples in 1904. A three-inch ad costing $336 in the Ladies Home Journal launched the printed portion of the campaign, and the first of the Jell-O "best seller" recipes rolled off the presses. In some years as many as 15 million booklets were distributed. Noted artists such as Rose O'Neill, Maxfield Parrish, Coles Phillips, Norman Rockwell, Linn Ball, and Angus MacDonald made Jell-O a household word with their colored illustrations. In 1904, Jell-O introduces the Jell-O Girl, four-year-old Elizabeth King whose father, Franklin King, was an artist connected with the Dauchy Company - Jell-O's advertising agency. In her right hand the continued on page 24
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Page 24 • April 2021
The History of Jell-O continued from page 23 little girl held a teakettle and in her left a package of Jell-O. Advertising kept abreast of the times and so in 1934 General Foods, a pioneer in selling by radio, signed Jack Benny and the whole world came to know "J-E-L-L-O." To return to the early days, on November 5, 1923 the Jell-O Company, Inc. was organized and took over the entire assets of the Genesee Pure Foods Company with no change in management or control. The purpose of this change was to protect the value of Jell-O as a trade name by closely identifying it with the business. The intent was to keep it from becoming a common noun. The officers in 1925 just before it joined with Postum were: Ernest L. Woodward, James Gordon Gilfillan, Charles W. Metcalf, Frank L. LaBounty, Donald Woodward, and Miss Beatrice Curtiss. Succeeding years saw Jell-O change from a hand-packaged business to a highly mechanized factory and become one of LeRoy's most important industries. The search for new products and unique advertising and merchandising breakthroughs developed a phenominal record. On December 31, 1925 the Jell-O Company, Inc. was sold to the Postum Cereal Company,
Inc. by exchange of stock, thereby becoming the first subsidiary of a large merger that would eventually become General Foods Corporation. And so, the little Jell-O package which was born in LeRoy in 1897 grew from childhood to adulthood. Jell-O left its hometown to make its way in the wide wide world in 1964. Today Jell-O is manufactured by Kraft/General Foods in Dover Delaware. Jell-O Trivia Fruits that sink: seedless grapes and fruits in heavy syrup such as apricots, cherries, fruit cocktail, peaches, pears, and pineapple. In 1909, the Genesee Pure Food Company posted sales earnings of over a million dollars. Four years later, that number doubled. The people of Salt Lake City consume more lime-flavored gelatin than any other city in the United States The first four Jell-O flavors were orange, lemon, strawberry, and raspberry. Lime was introduced in 1930. Fruits that float: fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, orange and grapefruit sections, sliced peaches and pears, strawberries, and fruit packed in light syrup.
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April 2021 • Page 25
Woodland Park Cub Scouts Building Over Zoom
The Woodland Park Cub Scouts Den # 6 Pack 31 recently built pencil boxes over a zoom call. Photos by Bonnie Thompson McGovern
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Page 26 • April 2021
WP Military Banners
M
ilitary tribute banners will be reinstalled along McBride Avenue in Woodland Park this month. Any family who has had a service member from town - active military, veteran, or KIA/MIA/POW - may sponsor a banner honoring that individual. The Borough of Woodland Park’s way of saying thanks to the men and women who have served in the military, it is their hope that by Memorial Day, all of McBride Avenue will be lined with these tributes. The color banners are 30 inches by 83 inches and are yours to keep after the display period. For more information or to sponsor a banner, contact Lori Brigati at 973-256-1264 or lbrigati@wpnj.us.
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Spring Events Come to Passaic Valley
April 2021 • Page 27
T
By Lindsey Kelleher he weather is getting warmer and everyday life is slowly getting back to the way it was pre-pandemic. If you want to get out of the house for a day and see what’s happening in the community, check out this list of upcoming events in Passaic Valley. Electronics Recycling Day Ok. This event is more for those doing spring cleaning. If you live in Woodland Park and are looking for a place to drop off any used or unwanted electronic items, Electronics Recycling Day is the spot to be. Date: Saturday, April 24 Time: 8 a.m. to noon Location: WP Boys & Girls Club Parking Lot 8 Memorial Drive Woodland Park, NJ 07424 No registration is required.
Boot Drive The Little Falls Enterprise Fire Co. No. 2 is hosting a boot drive this May. Contact Little Falls Township for more information, 973-256-0170. Date: Friday, May 7 and Saturday, May 8 Time: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Friday) and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Saturday) Location: Intersection of Main Street and Union Avenue
Totowa PAL CDS Clothing Drive Do you have old or unused clothes that you no longer want or need? Consider donating them to the Totowa PAL’s clothing drive. Check out the Totowa PAL’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/TheTotowaPAL for a list of items that can be donated. Date: Saturday, May 8 Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Location: the Totowa PAL building 150 Chamberlain Ave. Totowa, NJ 07512
Visit the municipal websites for more information or any updates or cancellation information: wpnj.us lfnj.com https://www.totowapal.com/
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635 McBride Avenue Woodland Park, NJ 07424 (973) 345-2500 www.SantangeloFuneral.com Personal attention only family can provide Serving all faiths Spacious parking Complimentary pre-planning consultation Complimentary grief counseling on premises Guy J. Santangelo (1917-2008)
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Page 28 • April 2021
WPFD Junior Recruits
A
recent drill topic for the West Paterson Fire Department's junior and probationary members was search. Chief Anthony Ficcara continues weekly
classes with the nine new junior and probationary members that have recently signed up over the last six months.
WP Service Project
T
he Alfred Baumann Library would like to send its thanks to all those who contributed to its Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service baby and youth toiletry collection. It was a great success. Special
thanks to the event partners Mayor Kazmark, Girl Scout Troop 96790, and the School 1 Early Childhood Advisory Council, as well as Jayden Perez/From the Bottom of My Heart.
April 2021 • Page 29
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Page 30 • April 2021
Autism Spectrum Disorder in New Jersey
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Written By, Chris Bauer MD pril has been dedicated as World Autism Month and April 2 has been declared World Autism Awareness Day by the United Nations. According to The N.J. Department of Education, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 45 children in New Jersey. New Jersey has the highest rate of Autism spectrum disorder in the nation. In the last ten years, NJ has seen greater healthcare funding, more legislative measures, and more public advocacy for Autism research and awareness. In discussing Autism spectrum disorder, correct terminology usage is very important. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological developmental disorder with deficits in social communication and interaction with restricted and repetitive patterns in activity and behaviors. Intellectual impairment and delayed or absence of language development are often observed as well. The repetitive movements often include hand flapping, rocking, toe walking or swaying. As the name implies Autism spectrum disorder is a diagnosis that encompasses a spectrum of criteria and no two people are affected in the same way. Boys are four times as likely to have Autism spectrum disorder as compared to girls. In addition, there is also an increased risk of ASD in siblings born after a child has been affected by Autism spectrum disorder. People with Autism spectrum disorder are also more likely to have seizure disorders and as many as 50 percent have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. To date, there has not been any agreed-on consensus on what the cause of Autism spectrum disorder is. A recent theory suggests that ASD is inherited genetically, and that brain development is affected i n the process. The inherited altered genetic material will then alter the neural pathway of
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that individual. Exposure to environmental toxins, teratogenic material, and infections during pregnancy have been shown to increase ASD rates. Having a preterm delivery, low birth weight, being exposed to certain antidepressants, and medications used to treat seizures in utero or swallowing meconium at the time of birth will increase a persons’ risk of getting Autism spectrum disorder. Diagnosing those with ASD early is an essential step in obtaining support services for children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening for Autism spectrum disorder at 18 and 24 months. Children’s parents who have concerns that their child has ASD can go to their primary care provider for an initial evaluation. Other healthcare providers who can assist with a diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder include child psychiatrists, developmental-behavioral pediatrician, child neurologists and neuropsychologists. When a child is initially evaluated for ASD by a provider, a thorough history and physical is taken. Then a diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder is made using observation of the child’s behavior and history and aligning that with the diagnostic criteria. After the diagnosis is made, early intervention with programs tailored to assist a child’s language, social and behavioral skills have been shown to have a significant positive effect on a child’s future development. Examples of early intervention programs include, speech therapy, family therapy, physical therapy, hearing impairment therapy, and nutritional services. The goals of early intervention programs are tailored to each individual child and aim to assist with thinking, physical, social, emotional and communication skills. A complete listing of early intervention programs in New Jersey is available to families on the Department of Health in New Jersey website (www.njeis.org).
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New Guidance May Change How You Control Your Asthma
he National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institutes of Health recently updated national guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment and management of asthma. Asthma is a chronic lung condition affecting about 25 million Americans, 5.5 million of whom are children. The 2020 Focused Updates to the Asthma Management Guidelines aim to improve the care of people living with asthma. Together, people with asthma, their caregivers and health care providers can make informed decisions about asthma management based on this new guidance. The guidelines contain 19 new recommendations in six key areas of asthma diagnosis, management and treatment. For example, they suggest that people ages 4 and up with moderate to severe persistent asthma use a single inhaler Photo courtesy of Getty Images that contains an inhaled corticosteroid and the bronchodilator formoterol. The guidance recommends this treatment both as a daily asthma controller and as a quick-relief therapy. Inhaled corticosteroids are medicines that help control inflammation in your airways over time, and bronchodilators help keep your airway muscles relaxed. The guidelines also suggest that people ages 12 and up with mild persistent asthma may do well with inhaled corticosteroids along with a type of medication called a short-acting bronchodilator for quick relief. People who are sensitive and exposed to indoor allergy triggers, such as dust or animal dander, may find that these allergens affect their asthma. A few different strategies, used together, can help reduce symptoms. Using only one strategy often does not improve asthma outcomes. For example, using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration vacuum
cleaner along with pillow and mattress covers that prevent dust mites from going through them could benefit those sensitive to dust. Using an integrated pest management plan may be helpful if you are allergic and exposed to cockroaches, mice or rats. Talking with your health care provider about these and other updates to the asthma management guidelines is an important part of your asthma care and can help you make informed decisions about your treatment. Asthma is a serious condition, but with the right treatment, it can be controlled. Work with your health care provider to develop a comprehensive prevention and treatment plan that includes: Taking prescribed medications Addressing environmental factors that worsen symptoms Learning skills to manage your asthma on your own (such as with an asthma action plan) Monitoring your care to assess how well it’s working and how to adjust, if needed If you have asthma and are concerned about COVID-19, talk to your health care provider. People with moderate to severe asthma may be more likely to get severely ill with COVID-19. COVID-19 can affect the respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs), cause an asthma attack and possibly lead to pneumonia and acute respiratory disease. For more information on COVID-19, visit CDC.gov. Read more about the updated guidelines and find asthma resources and information from NHLBI’s Learn More Breathe BetterSM program at www.nhlbi.nih.gov/LMBBasthma. (Family Features)
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Memorializing a Loved One During the Pandemic
mong the many struggles of the pandemic are finding ways to grieve and honor a loved one who has died under the constraints of COVID-19. The missed opportunity for a traditional funeral or memorial service has left some at a loss for how to honor their loved one’s life and start their grief journey. Even if you are unable to hold a traditional service, there are still ways for families to remember a loved one and find support during this stressful and emotional time. Consider these four ideas from Remembering a Life, an online resource from the experts at the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA). Hold a Small Service Now While some communities are still limiting public gatherings, such as funerals, restrictions have eased in many areas and families may be able to have small services Photo courtesy of Getty Images in a funeral home, a place of worship, at a cemetery or another meaningful location. A funeral director can provide guidance on what is permissible in his or her community and how a family can plan an intimate and meaningful service. Consider Going Virtual While most people find in-person services to be more healing, there are many options for incorporating a virtual component into a service when public gatherings are limited. With almost half of NFDA-member funeral homes offering livestreaming options since the onset of COVID-19, this option provides family and loved ones the opportunity to at-
tend services and gives out-of-town family and friends who may be concerned about travel the chance to participate. Host a Private Service with a Memorial Service at a Later Date Since the onset of the pandemic, many families have opted to postpone a loved one’s service and hold some type of service once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. A funeral or memorial service, regardless of when it is held, offers the opportunity to gather, support one another, share memories and say goodbye. While immediate family members may have been able to gather for a service and other family and friends could participate virtually, there are often many friends and family members who would appreciate being part of an in-person service to pay tribute to a loved one who died. Remember Loved Ones with Small Tributes Sometimes even the simplest things can help recall fond memories of loved ones, whether by listening to their favorite music, eating their favorite foods or visiting places they enjoyed visiting. Remembering the things that were important to a loved one can help keep his or her memory alive. No matter the circumstances around a death, funeral directors can help family and friends find ways to memorialize their loved ones in meaningful ways. Find support and resources for planning a funeral during the pandemic, including a free printable guide for planning a service in the future, at RememberingALife.com. (Family Features)
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fter a long year stuck at home, many people are dreaming about when they can travel once again. While counting down the days may feel like torture, planning and booking a vacation for later this year can give you something to look forward to. Now may be the perfect time to start thinking about your next adventure. Consider these tips for planning a future trip – even if you’re not certain exactly when you’ll take it. Research Travel Restrictions For any kind of travel, it’s important to make sure you’re up to date on any restrictions your potential destinations may have in place. Though the vaccine may help lessen restrictions in some places, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintain updated guidance and travel warnings based on the risk level of certain areas, which can help you make decisions. Once you’ve booked travel plans, it is prudent to check in frequently as your trip approaches and prepare a backup plan. Account for High Demand Many hotels, vacation rentals and resorts may already be booked for summer in popular locations due to optimism around the vaccine, increased demand for domestic travel and families planning multiple trips
How to Plan for a Future Vacation this year. In fact, travelers are locking in private Vrbo vacation homes at top summer destinations earlier in 2021. Less than half of vacation homes in some locations are still available for July, which is a more than 25% increase in demand year-over-year. To better your odds of securing your desired travel dates, accommodations and activities, booking earlier can help off-set the increased demand. “In years past, we’ve recommended families book their summer vacations by late April to stay ahead of the curve, but this year there are several reasons why families are eager and ready to book,” Vrbo President Jeff Hurst said. “These signs are telling us families should start looking for the perfect vacation home now before options become more limited.” Take Advantage of Deals with Longer Stays Many sectors of the travel industry offer special deals for reserving trips in advance, and some of the best deals can be found by bundling airfare and lodging or booking extended week- or month-long stays. These longer vacations can lead to fewer available dates to choose from, but some travel companies offer search filters that help travelers find discounts for staying longer periods of time. Opt for Flexible Booking
If you’re eager to plan a vacation right away, be sure to review and understand cancellation policies for your preferred accommodations, airline and activities. Many have changed their policies due to the pandemic, so be sure to know how long you have to cancel or change dates without incurring additional fees or penalties. For example, when booking a vacation rental through Vrbo, where hosts set their cancellation terms, you can use the “free cancellation” filter to search for properties with flexible policies, some of which allow cancellations up to 14 days before check-in for a full re-
fund. Start Saving Now While it may not be practical for everyone to save money amid uncertain times, setting even a small amount aside for your vacation can be worthwhile. Consider setting up a dedicated travel savings account or directing the change from each transaction made with your debit card to a separate account. Being able to periodically check the balance of the account can also help increase excitement for your upcoming adventure. Find more tips and start planning your next getaway at Vrbo.com. (Family Features)
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