Cedar Grove November 2023 by My Life Publications..Maljon LLC

A YUM Publication

No. 5 Vol. 11

NOVEMBER 2023

Fundraiser Game Held for Local Softball Player Battling Leukemia By Tina Pappas community has rallied behind a local girl who has always shown her "love of the game" to friends and family. Sofia Stokes, who is a seventh grade student at Washington Park School in Totowa, plays for the Lady Hornets Travel Softball team. The 12-year-old recently discovered that she has leukemia back in July. According to Jamie Macaluso, one of the Lady Hornets’ softball coaches, Sofia’s friends and teammates from all three Passaic Valley towns came together to show their support and held two softball fundraising games at the Little Falls Sports & Recreation Complex, located at 160 Paterson Avenue on Oct. 15, in the hopes of helping her family with her mounting medical bills. “This is a fundraiser for ‘Sofie,’” said Jamie. “We are doing two games with a mix of softball 12U and 14U Lady Hornets, including Totowa Recreation Department teams, comprised of girls from Little Falls, Totowa and Woodland Park. We’re all here to support and raise money for her journey right now.” Jamie, whose daughter also plays with Sophia on the 12U Lady Hornets team, said that her number 10 uniform was highlighted on the scoreboard during the fundraising

games held on Oct. 15. “This is why we have Sofie’s uniform number 10 on the scoreboard,” she explained, adding that the donation was 10 dollars for each girl participating in the softball games and 5 dollars for anyone attending the games. “The Shack also is donating a portion of their proceeds today.” Gabi Cordero, whose daughter Liliana went to school with Sofia and also plays on the 12U Lady Hornets team, said Sofia has been a leader on her team and in her community. Gabi coordinated the fundraiser. “A lot of the girls look up to her,” she said. “ She loves this game and it’s nice that she was able to come by today and see her friends and teammates supporting her with these games. It’s great that this fundraiser is being held because medical expenses can add up very quickly.” Sofia’s mother, Christina Stokes, was also in attendance and commented during the first game held. “It’s amazing,” she said. “We’re so grateful to have such a phenomenal community supporting us, and especially Sofia.” Anyone wishing to donate can go to venmo:g-cordero.

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls Pictured is Sofia Stokes, a seventh grade student at Washington Park School in Totowa, who plays for the Lady Hornets Travel Softball team.

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ommunity members and leaders gathered at Dowling Gardens on Oct. 10 to take part in the Woodland Park Stigma Free Task Force’s annual candlelight vigil. The event, held in honor of World Mental H ealth Day, allowed those attending to reflect, remember, and bring hope for all those affected by suicide, addiction, and mental illness, and loved ones lost. The vigil was led by task force chair Phyllis Hornstra, with Father Joseph Cyman from Holy Cross Church offering a prayer service. “There is a stigma still attached to mental illness, and that’s the barrier that we’re trying to break down by having events like this,” Acting Mayor Kallert said. “Things like this are so important. It’s important to our veterans who come back from seeing all kinds of atrocities. It’s important to the elderly that

maybe their life doesn’t turn out the way they thought. It’s important to children that struggle with their identity, their gender, parenting issues. “Everybody struggles with mental illness at some point in their life,” she said. “Maybe you just had the most beautiful baby in the world, but you have a little postpartum now. And if you think it can’t happen to you, you’d be wrong.” Founded in the fall of

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November 2023 • Page 7

Mental Health Assemblies

he Woodland Park Stigma Free Task Force sponsored the “Mental Health Is In The AIR” assembly for Beatrice Gilmore School fifth graders and Memorial Middle School sixth graders. The program was presented by AIR (Attitudes In Reverse) founder Tricia Baker, who spoke with the students about brain health. Fifty percent of mental health disorders present by age 14, and the suicide rate of those 12 and under has doubled in the past 10 years. AIR works to reach young people early to talk about good mental health before the onset of symptoms to help save lives. Many with mental health disorders suffer for an average of 10 years before getting help. “Can you imagine living with cancer, diabetes, or other diseases for 10 years?” Baker asked the students. “When you take care of your whole body, your brain benefits.” Baker detailed the items that students need in their mental health tool kit: sleep, time with friends, movement, healthy eating, writing our your troubles, creative time, hugging your pet, listening to your favorite music, relaxing, and volunteering. One coping mechanism in the tool kit is “hugging your pet,” so following Mrs. Baker’s presentation, students got to meet Goofy Goober, a certified AIR therapy dog. For more information about AIR, visit https://air.ngo/. What’s happening in your school or organization? Have a human interest story or something you would like to share? Email us at jeff@mylifepublications.com

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be assigned to Memorial Middle School. Perrota, a Nutley resident, started his career in the security field. In 1997, he was hired as an Essex County Correctional Officer. In 1998, he transferred over to the Nutley Police Department as a police officer where he rose to the rank of sergeant. He retired from the Nutley Police Department at the beginning of 2023. Perrota will be assigned to School 1. “We’re in our 10th year

now of having this program of Special Law Enforcement Officer III in our schools,” said Police Chief John Uzzalino. “We started out with one and now with five schools, we needed to bring a few more people. This year, our schools will be covered fully. It’s just a great thing to have in there, in knowing that, for safety for our kids and the schools that we have as we move forward.”

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hree recent graduates of the Passaic County Police Academy Class #23-59 have joined the Woodland Park Police Department. The department is proud to welcome Officer Dylan Mulrooney, Officer David Garcia, and Officer Massimo Iocovo as members.

What’s happening in your school or organization? Have a human interest story or something you would like to share? Email us at jeff@mylifepublications.com

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oodland Park Acting Mayor Kallert and the Borough Council recently swore in two new Special Class III Police Officers: John Malenich and Thomas Perrota. Malenich, a Borough resident, started his law enforcement career with the Montclair Police Department in 1995 and transferred over to the Wayne Police Department in 2003, where he continued to work until 2020 and retired as a Detective First Class. He will

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he school community at Memorial Middle School in Woodland Park came together for its annual House Sorting Event. Sixth grade students, transfer students, and new staff members were “sorted” using the sorting cup. Every new member entered one of four houses: House of Fire, House of Earth, House of Wind, House of Water. After the sorting ceremony, they held their first house competitions of the school year: tug-of-war, cheering, and on-task behavior contests. All worked with their house members to earn the first house points of the school year.

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ot gout? If so, Dr. Wachtler, a Cedar Grove foot and ankle surgeon has a recommendation for surviving the holidays: Watch what you eat and drink. Changes in diet, including overindulging in certain foods and beverages, can cause gout attacks this time of year, says Dr. Matthew F. Wachtler, DPM, FACFAS. Gout attacks can be diffi-

cult to diagnose, often mistaken for a sprain, arthritis or other ailments. Gout attacks are extremely painful, often red, hot and swollen. If left untreated, they can last for months and cause significant joint damage. They are caused when uric acid accumulates in the tissues or a joint and crystallizes. This most commonly occurs in the big toe joint. Foods that are high in purines contribute to uric acid build-up. People prone to gout attacks should avoid purine-rich items such as shellfish (shrimp, crab, etc.), organ meats (kidney, liver, etc.), red meat, red wine and beer. Gout can be treated with medications, diet changes,

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Annual Ceremony For Domestic Violence Prevention Month held in Little Falls

By Tina Pappas

he Little Falls Domestic Violence Prevention Committee held its annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) ceremony in front of the Little Falls Municipal Building on Oct. 9. The flag is raised to spotlight Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. DVAM was launched nationwide in October 1987 with the goal of connecting and uniting individuals and organization to work on and raise awareness for domestic violence issues, according to the Domestic Violence Awareness Month website. The Little Falls Municipal Building was lit in purple to mark the event. Mayor James Damiano and the Township Council were on-hand during the ceremony, along with committee members and local residents in attendance. The event was coordinated by Councilman Michael Murphy who spoke during the ceremony. “We raise this flag tonight for many reasons," he said. "We raise it to spread awareness, but most importantly we raise this flag in support of the survivors and victims of domestic violence." He added that the majority of victims or survivors of domestic violence stay silent and why raising the flag is so important to show those that may be silent that there is an enormous amount of help available. "We hope that those who drive past town hall can see this flag and know that we are here for them and to support them," he further added. Mayor Damiano read the domestic violence proclamation, which was also read at a town hall meeting earlier

in the month at the October Township Council Workshop Meeting. He thanked each member of the domestic violence prevention committee for all of their hard word and dedication to the town. According to the National Statistics Domestic Violence Fact Sheet, Nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the U.S. During a one-year period, it results in more than 10 million men and women. One in four women and one in nine men experience severe intimate partner physical violence.

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Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls The Township of Little Falls held its annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month ceremony on Oct. 9. Pictured is the Little Falls Municipal Building lit in purple to spotlight awareness. Also pictured is Mayor James Damiano, along with the Township Council and members of the Little Falls Domestic Violence Prevention Committee.

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D. Sierra Lash Co in Little Falls Awarded Best Lash Salon 2023

he D. Sierra Lash Co, has certainly "lashed out" in terms of being recognized in the beauty industry. The company, owned by Dominique Sandu, was recently awarded Best Lash Salon 2023. Dominique opened her first salon at 58 Main Street in Little Falls in 2020. The Wayne native, who resides in Montville, says working in the beauty industry is her passion. She developed a knack for makeup

at a young age, and became skilled at doing eyelashes for her loyal clients over the years. Once she became successful and her clientele began to grow, she began her own line of eyelash products. She then realized she needed to take the next step and opened up her own salon. She now proudly owns two salons, with a third in the works. "I'm super excited to be given this award. There were hundreds of people

at this conference and to be chosen on how special and advanced your company is truly amazing," she said. "It was incredible to be a part of this and to be recognized." Dominque, along with two of her team members, were flown out to San Diego during the weekend of Sept. 23 and 24 to attend the awards ceremony, where she received the trophy plaque award for D. Sierra Lash Co. According to Dominique, the awards ceremony brought our people from a worldwide level in the industry and a gathering of the best influencers in the field. It was hosted by U.S.based Australian hairstylist, salon owner and television personality Tabitha Coffey. "It was super exciting to attend the conference and receive this award," she said. "I got called up repre-

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senting the company and I gave a speech. There were many well-known and famous people in the industry, such as Tabitha Coffey and Jeannie Mai." Dominique feels that D. Sierra Lash Co's recognition is largely due to its high quality product line, which is totally the company's own. "We're just so happy to be honored and are proud of all of our hard work, which has really paid off," Dominique added. "We set the bar really high in the industry and we can confidently say there is no one around our business area like us. The quality of our products and work gives our clients satisfaction and that's why we have such a loyal customer base." Dominique also said her products are hypoallergenic and she has accommodations for every type of client, with only the highest quality ingredients. The salon's main focus is "everything lashes" which includes lash lifts, tints and recently introducing the new service of brow lamination. Additionally, she aims to give her clients the "red carpet" treatment every time they come to her salon. "When you come here, you are given the celebrity experience," she explained. " Our customers are treated like royalty in our salons." Next on Dominique's agenda is to open a third salon, with a location still to be determined. After opening up her location in Little Falls, a second location was opened at 478 Ridgedale Avenue in East Hanover soon after "We're looking forward to a third salon and we are so delighted that D. Sierra is really taking off and expanding," she noted. Mayor James Damiano commented on D. Sierra's Lash Co's award, which he called very well-deserved.

Photo credit: Dominique Sandu D. Sierra Lash Co was recently awarded Best Lash Salon 2023. Pictured is Dominique Sandu (center) with her team. Also pictured is Dominique with beauty mogul and television personality Tabitha Coffey.

"What a tremendous recognition to one of our very own local businesses here in Little Falls." he said. "A huge congratulations are in order to Dominique and her team for such an incredible award. I am happy to

say that D. Sierra calls Little Falls home." D. Sierra Lash Co salon is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m.to 7 p.m. The salon's number is (973) 330-5331

Page 16 • November 2023

Amplify Autumn Curb Appeal 5 home renovation projects to tackle this fall

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Amplify Autumn.. cont. from pg 16

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improvement. For added low-light visibility and visual appeal, install lights along the perimeter to help the greenery stand out in the evening. If you’re ready for a major overhaul, consider upgrading the driveway using cobblestone, pavers or stamped concrete. To find more ways to boost curb appeal this fall, visit WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com. (Family Features)

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It could get way worse… Courtesy Dr. Anant Joshi ou step out of bed in the morning and your heel hurts. After a minute of getting your morning started the soreness subsides. You forget about the pain until the next morning when it happens again. And, again the next and the next… Hmmm. “Dr. Google” says this must be Plantar Fasciitis. You try a couple of usual home remedies of stretching and wearing better shoes. A month or so passes and the morning soreness doesn’t stop. In fact, there’s soreness now later in the day when you get up from sitting for a while. Any time you sit for a while and get up, your heel hurts. Now you add some home remedies like inserts and Advil…without relief! This is the story we’ve heard hundreds of times. Plantar Fasciitis is often stubborn to alleviate. If you only have pain in the morning consider yourself lucky, it can get way worse. Morning heel pain is usually an inflammation of the Plantar Fascia ligament. If your heel starts to hurt during the day, you could have something way worse such as a small tear of the Plantar Fascia. If your heel starts hurting at night, a nerve problem could also have developed. Ugh! You could also have all of this unhappiness going on all at once. Procrastinating having a foot problem checked is common. Paying for the procrastination physically, mentally and financially isn’t uncommon when it comes to Plantar Fasciitis. Simple solutions are plentiful when addressing foot pain early. Avoiding the “way worse” scenario is as simple as saying yes to seeing sooner rather than later if your heel starts to hurt. To Healthy Feet, Anant Joshi DPM https://www.footpainnj.com

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Pre Natal Care Post Natal Care Through Physical Therapy And Functional Exercise

re natal and post natal care through physical therapy and functional exercise can help a pregnancy run more smoothly and make a recovery more expedient. The focus of prenatal exercises delivered through Pre Natal Post Natal Physical Therapy at Elite Spine and Sports Care of Totowa, is multifold, meant to decrease pain, improve balance and flexibility, and strengthen the core muscles. An eye on posture and body awareness is an important part of this process. Our physical therapists are educated and experienced with pre and post natal physical therapy, offering exercises to help a body tackle this milestone with as much grace and comfort as possible. Being fit for birth is an integral part of the process, and pre and post natal corrective exercise program is instrumental. This program is based on improving posture, breathing patterns, and functional movement in pre and post-natal women. Every woman is unique, and the assessment phase will evaluate posture and breathing at rest while examining primal movement patterns that include the squat, alternating lunge, twist, bend, push, and a pull. Following the assessment, our Passaic County NJ physical therapists will design a program that implements corrective exercises and postures. Pre and post natal women who participate in our Passaic County pre and post natal corrective exercise can focus on what is healthy for both mother and baby. Our primary goal is to teach both pre and post natal women that participating in an exercise program is safe and beneficial either before or after childbirth. These exercises can be instrumental in helping with mood, weight, and aches and pains associated with pregnancy. Pregnancy is one of those things that affects each individual differently. Some people can exercise regularly right up until birth, and others are sidelined for a myriad of reasons. Regardless, it is important for all women to listen to their bodies and take care of their bodies and their growing babies, both pre and post natal. Contact Elite Spine and Sports of Totowa today to learn more about our pre and post natal physical therapy and functional exercise to make your pregnancy as healthy as possible.

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November 2023 • Page 21

Little Falls Seniors Enjoy Evening at Annual Harvest Moon Dance

By Tina Pappas

celestial vibe was in the air at the Harvest Moon Dinner Dance. The event is held annually for senior citizens and is sponsored by the Little Falls Senior Advisory Committee. It was held at the Little Falls Civic Center, located at 19 Warren Street on Oct. 13.. Local seniors kicked up their heels and enjoyed a night of dinner and dancing, with music entertainment by DJ Angelo. The event was free for seniors from Little Falls and $10 for non-residents. Council President Anthony Sgobba said the evening was well attended by 75 seniors. "Seniors danced the night away," he said. "It was an enjoyable evening. A big thank you to the Little Falls Girl Scouts who helped serve food and refreshments." Mayor James Damiano said it was yet another great evening for senior citizens in town. "Great time tonight at the Little Falls Seniors' Harvest Moon Festival," he said. "Thanks to everyone who made this possible, including Council President Anthony Sgobba who works with the Senior Advisory Committee."

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls The Little Falls Senior Advisory Committee held its annual Harvest Moon Dinner Dance for local seniors on Oct. 13. Pictured (from left) is Councilman Michael Murphy, Councilwoman Christine Hablitz, Council President Anthony Sgobba, Mayor James Damiano and Councilman Chris Vancheri. Also pictured are local seniors enjoying the evening.

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Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Recognized with Seven Jersey Awards

he Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) earned recognition for its efforts to tackle the opioid and addiction crisis, earning seven awards at the 55th Annual Jersey Awards last month. The awards are organized and judged by New Jersey Ad Club, the largest association in New Jersey that represents advertisers, marketers, media and public relations professionals. PDFNJ received recognition for the following campaigns: Teen & Stress Media Campaign Many teenagers experienced stress and anxiety due to changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as transitioning from in-person to virtual learning. These pressures could potentially increase their risk of experimenting with and using substances. Through this campaign, PDFNJ aimed to inform parents about the warning signs. • Out of Home: Transit-Bus: Internal & External (First Place) • Out of Home: Transit Shelter (Third Place) • Public Relations: 3 or More Elements (Third Place) • Television: Public Service Announcement (PSA) (Third Place) Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day

This campaign spotlighted the collective efforts of New Jersey communities to increase awareness of the dangers of prescription opioid usage. Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day serves as a channel to provide crucial information to healthcare workers, community heads, and households. • Public Relations: Special Event / Client Celebration (Third Place) Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series This campaign showcased PDFNJ’s monthly webinar series, which provides New Jersey residents with insight from both local and national experts on the opioid epidemic and new developments in addressing the issue. • Public Relations: Not for Profit/ Pro Bono Work (Second Place) Even A King This campaign showed that opioid dependence can affect anyone, be it an athlete, celebrity, academic or someone from a supportive family. Only five days of use can result in an opioid use disorder. • Transit Rail (Second Place) “We are truly honored to receive these awards from the New Jersey Ad Club,” said Angelo M. Valente, executive director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey. “It’s

a testament to our team's hard work, dedication and commitment to creating campaigns that educate our communities on how we can prevent drug use together.” For more information about the Partnership for a DrugFree New Jersey, visit www.drugfreenj.org. Best known for its statewide anti-drug advertising campaign, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is a private not-for-profit coalition of professionals from the communications, corporate and government communities whose collective mission is to reduce demand for illicit drugs in New Jersey through media communication. To date, more than $200 million in broadcast time and print space has been donated to the Partnership’s New Jersey campaign, making it the largest public service advertising campaign in New Jersey’s history. Since its inception the Partnership has garnered 226 advertising and public relations awards from national, regional and statewide media organizations.

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Poetic License in New Jersey

By Henry M. Holden This is my letter to the world that never wrote to me." Emily Dickinson Ever since the first humans walked upright, we have felt compelled to make statements about our existence and individuality. It started with a cave dweller scratching on the wall of a cave. We got better at it over the centuries, but most of us still don't do it as well as Emily Dickinson. We see social and political statements on walls and vehicle bumpers everywhere. The price to the errant scribe is a few bucks for the spray paint or the bumper sticker. In over the years, we have also seen a new communication media open to anyone with a vehicle. The vehicle tag (or license plate) was not meant to be a means of social communication, but bureaucrats in our state governments have set in place an outlet for some creative urges. The personalized vehicle tag is more expensive than a can of spray paint, and it requires a lot more creativity. The “vanity plate” as some call it, limits the statements to six or seven alpha-numeric characters. Reruns of TV shows such as “The Dukes of Hazard,” and “LA Law,” made millions of people aware of the linguistic possibilities of that little piece of aluminum. Today, urges to create personal statements run the gamut from simple initials, and nicknames, to borderline obscenities. And yes, there is someone in Trenton who reviews every vanity plate request to make sure it does not cross that imaginary threshold of scandalous material. I began to notice vehicle tags when I purchased HMH-33 for my new vehicle. I could not get number one because in those days Hugh M. Heffner (of Playboy fame) was outfitting his fleet with HMH- - -. Over the next few years, I would randomly photograph interesting vehicle tags. In the process I discovered there are many creative people in New Jersey, and they have a surprising number of six- and seven-letter number combinations that represent sentences, and almost complete thoughts. You will find imperative and interrogative statements, verbs, adjectives, even adverbs, pronouns, and unlikely prepositions, spelling out messages to the world that never wrote to them. Many show a surprising level of creativity, and manipulation of language. Some

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are downright ingenious. When you travel the highways of New Jersey, you will undoubtedly see what I mean. Here’s a starter. PNOPLAR. You just get one hint. It’s a person activity. Now here is my story. I started out BORNFRE, and I am a K9LVR. In my spare time I am a HMNSPTR. Did I mention I have SONS X2, and they have a NO1 MOM? I have a neighbor who has 9KIDS, but SHHH, we can’t tell GUMPA. We also have a KID DDS, and a KIDS MD. As a result, I regularly get an RX BILL and sometimes I must see a FOOTDOK, and a SHRNK. I need a REHB DR after seeing their bills. I have several Marine buddies but one of them cannot spell SEMR FI. My LOVLY and 1N ONLY wife is also my ALURING VLNTYN. I am an author but apparently not the number 1AUTHOR. IH8 SNO and apparently someone in Virginia does not like us NOTNJ. If You see me on the road W4VE2ME as you go by my REVN57, NONSTOP. PNOPLAR is a piano player and HMNSPTR is a home inspector. If this gives you some insight into the possibilities of language, then why not try this. Mosey through a busy supermarket parking lot. I'm sure you'll find several vanity tags there. What do they say about their owners? Do they represent an effective form of communication, perhaps a higher form of intelligence, or simply a more developed ego? Is the owner's thought process more sophisticated? Does it show you the creative potential of language? Why don’t you try it? Within the space of six or seven letters and numbers, create a statement that accurately describes yourself, your lifestyle, or your fantasy. Limit yourself to the vehicles registered in your name. I came up with AUTHOR. I’ll leave you with a question: UBD JUDG of HU DID IT? SEUL8R.

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By Jeff Garrett

Old Barracks in Trenton Gathers No Moss as Time-Honored Visitors Destination in New Jersey

f you’re looking for a fun day trip to learn about the Revolutionary War, just head to the Old Barracks at the state capital. The Old Barracks Museum is unique

for preserving the history of a structure which served several purposes during America’s war for independence. The barracks originally was constructed for use as winter quarters during the French and Indian War in 1758 and later used to house British soldiers in the Revolutionary War. An addition was put onto the building in 1759. Four other barracks were built in New Jersey as well but the one in Trenton is the only one left standing. As events unfolded, British prisoners of war were then held in the Officers’ House while up to four companies of the Second New Jersey regiment of the Continental Line were raised at the building. During the war, the Continental Army used the Barracks as a spot to receive inoculations against diseases and will be forever connected the famous in the Battle of Princeton and Battle of Trenton which was won by George Washington’s troops. It has been a museum for over a century now and was purchased by an alliance between Daughters of American Revolution and the Colonial Dames at the start of the 20 th Century. But before this occurred, some of the Barracks were obliterated in order to lengthen Front Street to State House. These two structures were able to survive by becoming apart of the Trenton landscape and becoming home to groups such as The Indigent Widows’ and Single Women’s Home Society of Trenton as well as the home of the first mayor of Trenton and served as a boarding school. Aside from the DAR and Dames association purchasing the Barracks they decided to use it as a repository for everything connected to the American Revolution beginning in 1902. They then transferred ownership of the north section along with the Old Barracks Association selling off a portion, to the State of New Jersey in 1914 after an agreement was made to operate the building as a museum. The middle section of the building was restored. No

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major structural changes occurred for the next 70 years or so until the Barracks underwent a multi-million dollar restoration between 1985 and 1998. The goal of this transformation was to capture how the Barracks appeared in 1758. In “Operation Restoration 2016” more touch-ups were exacted to the buildings. Woodwork of the barracks and Officers’ House along with new windows for the Officers House were installed. A matching grant from The Society of Colonial Wars in New Jersey as well as help from The 1772 Foundation and new jersey Historical Trust made these adjustments and makeovers possible. The Old Barracks hosts over 12,000 students from schools yearly and is touted as New Jersey’s most frequented tourist spot. Students continue to learn about the structures themselves and about the exciting historical exhibits and collections inside the buildings. The Old Barracks Museum is located at 1101 Barrack Street in Trenton and is open from 10am to 5pm, Wednesdays through Saturdays. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for students and senior citizens while children under 5 and active military are free. Masks must also be worn while on museum grounds. To learn more about the Barracks log onto www.barracks.org, email info@barracks.org or call 609-396-1776.

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By Richard Mabey Jr. have always tried to live a healthy life. I have been under chiropractic care since the age of 19. I have never smoked cigarettes, partaken in illegal drugs, nor drank alcoholic beverages. I have done my absolute best to eat organic fruits and vegetables. I take a good number of supplements of vitamins, herbs and minerals. Yet, despite all of that, my Cardiologist has told me that I am faced with having severe Aortic Stenosis. There is no magic pill for AS. No elixer, no prescription. There is one thing that will help a person with AS, and that is to have the Aortic Valve replaced. When you’re faced with that fact, it’s a rather hard pill to swallow. There are stages that a person goes through. And, they include a certain time period of feeling sorry for oneself, the old “why me?”

questioning. Sadly, there is even a time period of feeling a bit angry about it all. And, then comes acceptance. That is about where I am now. I was thinking a lot about what words of comfort I could share with anyone who is facing serious surgery. First and foremost is to pray. Secondly, read the holy writings of your faith or spiritual path, alone and in a quiet place. And thirdly, mentally prepare for surgery. I have found great solace in going through old pictures. Both, my old fashioned print pictures in my photo albums and my collection of digital pictures stored on my laptop. Pictures can bring joy to one’s heart, a certain comfort, a kind of reflection of different eras of one’s life. Another thing of great therapeutic value is to keep a journal of your feelings.

November 2023 • Page 33

When SurgerydoneIs you Required wrong. Grudg-

Writing it down on paper will help you sort out your anxieties, fears and inward insecurities. You’ll soon see a pattern that will give you a greater understanding of what you are going through inwardly. And of course, talk about your feelings with a trusted friend, a spiritual or religious leader, or an endearing relative. Be honest with yourself. At all costs, avoid heroic talk. Even Batman has to take off his cape and cowl at some point in time and become vulnerable Bruce Wayne. And one more thing to do, is to write letters of kindness and appreciation to old friends and dear relatives. It is a most wonderful release of kindness and love. Let people know how they have touched your life in a positive way. And, last but not least, inwardly and outwardly forgive the people who have

es can fester in the heart, mind and soul of a person. Bad feelings hold no true purpose in spiritual unfoldment. Imagine that you are holding a rock. Inside that rock are all the wrongs ever done to you, by a large number of people. Further imagine that you are standing by a strong flowing river. You give the rock one last squeeze, in the palm of your hand, and then you throw the rock into the river with all your might and strength. And all your feelings of resentment toward all the people who have done you wrong, over the years, are now lying on the bottom of the raging river. Gone from you, forever. And above all, know that God loves you more than you will ever know. Life isn’t always fair. But please know this. You were put upon this earth for a purpose. Find

Yours truly with my dear, departed friend, Bailey.

your purpose, your ministry, your unique mission in life. Be strong, be brave and be courageous. Hold your head up high and keep a stiff upper lift. Pray, pray and pray for God to give you the wherewithal and strength to face your surgery with an ever most positive energy.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.

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A Thanksgiving Story By Richard Mabey Jr. here are moments in a person’s life that leave an incredible, indelible mark upon one’s heart and mind. A moment that so deeply moves a person’s heart that it is ingrained deep within the fibers and chambers of the human heart. Such a moment came to my life in the early morning of the Thanksgiving of 1968. I was 15 years old and in my sophomore year at Boonton High School. This was to be the first Thanksgiving without the blessing of the presence of my grandfather, Watson Mabey. For the good Lord had called him Home to Heaven’s Gate, in May of that year. It had been a particularly tough time for my dear father. Dad and Grandpa had worked together for years, at their small trucking company, based in Paterson.

There was a sullen ache deep within my father’s heart. Dad missed his father all so very much. I remember the Thanksgiving Morning of 1968, like it was yesterday. My father was unusually quiet. There was an unspoken sadness in the Mabey Homestead. Grandma, Mom and my sister Patti had already begun making apple and pumpkin pies. Dad had just put the turkey in the oven. There was a long-standing tradition in our family. On Thanksgiving Morning, Dad would securely placed the turkey in the oven. Then, Grandpa, Dad and I would walk the forest path to the old Morris Canal. Specifically to the foundation of the historic Mabey Homestead that was located along the canal path, just a few yards east of the start of the hill from where Incline Plane Ten East once

proudly hailed. I remember this all so well, as soon as Dad closed the door of the oven, he looked over to me and quietly said, “Richie, let’s you and I take a walk down to the old canal.” In a solemn voice, with a touch of enthusiasm, I said, “sure thing Dad.” “Better put your winter coat on Richie, it’s kind of cold out this morning,” Dad said to me as he put on his brown corduroy coat. “Good idea Dad! I was going to wear my light jacket. I better get my winter coat out of the closet,” I replied to my father. Dad was quiet for the first few minutes after we entered the forest path at the end of Mabey Lane. A buck with a most amazing set of antlers ran across the wooded path. The deer’s quick pace brought a halfcont. on page 36

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Page 36 • November 2023

6 Ways to Weatherize Your Home

Thanksgivig Story... cont. from page 34

smile to my father’s saddened face. “Those deer can really run,” Dad said with a bit of a song in his voice. “I haven’t seen a deer in these woods for quite a while,” I replied. We walked further down the wooded path. When we reached the stone foundation of the old Mabey Icehouse, Dad and I sat down upon the remains of the icehouse wall. Dad looked out to the still, murky waters of the old Morris Canal. I could see tears flow down the cheeks of my father’s face. “I miss your Grandpa, son. At times, he could be a bit rough around the edges. But then at other times, he could be as gentle as a lamb,” Dad quietly said to me. “Dad, I remember the year I had Rheumatic Fever. Grandpa came up to visit me, every Wednesday afternoon. He used to talk about working on the canal,” I reflectively said to my father. “Your grandfather was the last Chief Engineer to run Incline Plane Ten East. I remember as a kid, your Uncle Carl and I used to run through the old plane house, after they closed up the canal,” Dad told me, with almost a cry in his voice. “I miss him, I miss Grandpa,” I told my father. “It’s been over six months since he passed away. I still miss him, I still miss him so very much,” my Dad said to me, holding back his tears. And then my father cried. It was one of the very few times that I ever saw my dear father cry. None of us know the day nor the time, when the good Lord will call us Home to Heaven’s Gate. None of us. Not even the wealthiest person among us, knows not the time, nor the place. Life is short. Painfully short. Love one another. Accept the faults of others. Gossip not. Help one another. Help the poor. Give a nod and a smile to a stranger. Forgive, forgive and forgive others who have done you wrong. Hate nobody. Give love out to those who talk wrong of you. For truly, love is the key. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.

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changing of the seasons may mean adjustments to your routine and updates to your home decor, but it also brings maintenance and upgrade opportunities for homeowners. As temperatures shift and seasonal weather rolls in, weatherizing can help you conserve energy, save money and improve comfort all while protecting the exterior (and interior) of your home from the elements. This checklist from the door experts at Masonite, a global industry leader in interior and exterior doors and door systems, can help you keep the outdoors out. Heating and Cooling Systems Inspected Turn to the professionals to have your furnace and air conditioning inspected before temperatures change. They can make sure the system is working properly so you can have cont. on page 37 heat or cool air when you need it while con-

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November 2023 • Page 37

6 Ways...

cont. from page 36 ducting safety checks to keep your family safe from carbon monoxide leaks and other hazards. Plus, having your system inspected before any extreme weather means necessary repairs can be completed before you’re relying on it for comfort. Trim Trees Your trees and shrubs might provide a beautiful aesthetic in spring and summer, but winter weather can turn them into hazards for your home. Heavy winds and snow and ice buildup can cause branches to break off and damage roofs, windows and more. Some experts recommend waiting until leaves fall to prune; be sure to research the types of trees on your property and understand the best maintenance methods to keep them healthy without putting your home at risk. Replace Your Front Door Living in a comfortable, energy-efficient home starts with keeping out rain, wind, cold and heat. For a protect-

ed and weather-proof home, consider replacing your front door with a premium alternative like the Masonite Performance Door System, designed to keep the outside out and the inside in. Available with a variety of exterior fiberglass doors in a multitude of styles, colors and finishes, including multiple glass options, the system’s industry-leading 4-Point Performance Seal provides superior energy efficiency, performance and comfort. Plus, the system is backed by a 10-year limited full replacement warranty and available at home improvement retailers nationwide. Additional benefits include: • A square edge door fits perfectly into its frame for a solid, energy efficient seal. • A self-adjusting sill maintains its seal, adapting to imperfect or changing conditions. • Adaptive weatherstripping made of high-end, low-wick memory foam snaps back

into shape when bent or twisted, stopping air and water in its tracks. • Enhanced corner pads stop upward water pressure and form a tight seal between sill, door panel and frame. Clear Gutters While it’s a bit of a dirty job, clearing gutters of debris and buildup like leaves and twigs keeps the system running as it should. Gutters can’t properly drain when they’re blocked, which means water isn’t being diverted properly. This leads to water spilling over and can cause problems ranging from mold or mildew to larger issues like foundation damage. Secure Outdoor Furniture It may cause a bit of sadness putting patio furniture away for the season, but it’s an important step in protecting both the furniture itself and your home from high winds that can pick up during colder months or increased moisture during the

rainy season. Some pieces may need stored away while others can simply be covered, but make sure to clean and carefully dry to avoid mold and mildew growth beforehand. Take advantage of the opportunity to thoroughly clean grease and grime off grill grates, repair

damaged furniture items and clear the entire area of dirt and debris so everything’s ready to be dusted off and enjoyed in the spring. Hire a Roof Inspector The roof is a critical component in keeping your home structurally sound. A professional can

examine your roof for damage and assess anything that may need fixed or replaced ahead of winter weather or rain. This examination includes shingles, soffit, fascia, chimneys, gutters and more along with a check for signs of interior damage like water stains, mold,

holes or wood rot. Find more ways to weatherize your home and keep the outdoors out by visiting Masonite. com/Masonite-Performance-Door-System. (Family Features)Source: Masonite Doors

Page 38 • November 2023

5 Ways to Get Your Pet Ready for Fall

ets provide unconditional love to their companions; in return, it’s important to make sure they live happy and healthy lives by providing the best care possible. This means making sure that in addition to food, treats and toys, they receive daily care for their eyes, ears and overall health. With a desire to bring a dog into his family’s lives, Albert, a Bausch + Lomb employee, rescued a terrier mix named Watson. However, it soon became apparent Watson needed some extra love and care to help protect his eyes and ears from irritation and excess buildup. When finding a remedy proved difficult, Albert worked with veterinarians to develop Project Watson Health Care for Dogs, a comprehensive line of quality products targeting these specific areas.

To help ensure your furry member of the family has the best head to tail health possible, consider these tips. Schedule Regular Vet Visits Routine wellness checks are an essential part of your pet’s care. Annual screenings, even if your dog seems healthy, allow your veterinarian to provide vaccines to combat disease and uncover any health issues that may have otherwise gone undiagnosed until symptoms advanced. Watch Your Pet’s Diet Feeding your pet a proper diet based on his or her breed, age, size and lifestyle plays a big role in overall health. A balanced diet that includes high-quality food can lead to a shiny coat, healthy skin, bright eyes and may also help strengthen your pet’s immune system,

maintain intestinal health, increase mental acuity, regulate weight, keep muscles and joints healthy and more. Support Clean Ears and Eyes Often overlooked, the eyes and ears are vital areas to the overall health and wellness of your pet. To help keep these areas free of any buildup of bacteria that may cause irritation, consider an option like the line of

Project Watson Health Care Products for Dogs, which includes an eye wash, eyelid wipe, ear wash, ear wipe and supplements made using high-quality and naturally inspired ingredients. Excessive blinking or pawing at the eyes can be signs of buildup, irritation or infection. Dirt and debris trapped around the eyes can also clump in fur, leading to skin irritation and in-

fections while excessive tear production can lead to fur staining, which can develop an unpleasant odor. Eye wipes can be used daily to relieve staining and remove excess buildup. Washing your dog’s ears may help reduce dirt, debris and wax buildup; help prevent itching; and reduce the chance of infection while keeping ears smelling fresh. Create an Exercise Routine Walks, games in the backyard and social time with other pets can help keep your furry friend in good physical condition. While different breeds and species often have different needs, adequate activity can provide benefits beyond the physical, including reducing boredom, which can potentially lead to anxiety or destructive behaviors.

Prevent Pests In addition to regular vaccinations, ensure your pet is up to date on parasite prevention. This includes fleas, ticks, mites, heartworm and more which can cause reactions ranging from mild to severe (or even fatal in some cases of heartworm or Lyme disease). Look for pests and skin abnormalities when grooming your pet and contact your vet if your pet excessively scratches, chews or licks his or her fur or ears, or persistently shakes his or her head. For more solutions to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy, speak with your veterinarian or visit tryprojectwatson.com. (Family Features) Source: Bausch + Lomb

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Fill Your Family’s Plates with Cozy Fall Meals

utting away the homework, turning off electronics and spending a little quality time together can help ease everyday stresses. Add a cozy meal packed with tastes you love and you’ll have the perfect recipe for an autumn evening with your family. Cooler days call for comforting flavors the entire family can enjoy at the dinner table like roasted veggies - from sweet potatoes to pumpkin and more paired with hearty favorites like cheesy pierogies that provide a sense of warmth and coziness. Make this autumn one to remember by creating new meals and memories along the way. For an extra special celebration with the ones you love in honor of the 15th anniversary of National Pierogy Day, consider a cozy, warming dish like Roasted Sweet Potatoes Brown

Butter Pierogies, which is loaded with the flavors of the season. This comforting meal starts with cubed sweet potatoes - a hallmark of fall - along with pierogies tossed in a homemade brown butter sauce. Top with pecans for a nutty crunch and fresh thyme leaves for the final touch on a newfound favorite that’ll bring loved ones running to the dinner table. At the heart of the dish are Mrs. T’s Pierogies, which are pasta pockets filled with stuff families love like creamy mashed potatoes, cheese and big, bold flavors. Found in the frozen food aisle, they’re available in 13 flavors including 4 Cheese Medley, Loaded Baked Potato, Feta & Spinach and other varieties in full and mini sizes. Pierogies can be boiled, baked, air-fried, sauteed, fried or grilled to leave more time for family and less time

in the kitchen. Find more ways to incorporate fall flavors into your family’s everyday menu by visiting MrsTsPierogies.com. Roasted Sweet Potatoes Brown Butter Pierogies Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Servings: 4-5 1 bag (1.6 pounds) Mrs. T’s Mini Classic Cheddar Pierogies 2 cups sweet potato cubes (approximately 1 large or 2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes) 1 tablespoon olive oil salt, to taste pepper, to taste 4 tablespoons salted butter 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons lemon juice water 1/2 cup pecans fresh thyme leaves, for serving

Preheat oven to 400 F. Toss sweet potato cubes in olive oil, salt and pepper, to taste, and spread in even layer on baking sheet. Roast 25-30 minutes, tossing about halfway through, until potatoes are fork tender. In medium skillet over medium heat, brown butter 5-10 minutes. Avoid smok-

ing or burning. Remove from heat. Allow to cool about 5 minutes then whisk in balsamic vinegar and lemon juice. In large saucepan, bring water to boil. Cook pierogies according to package directions, about 3 minutes. Drain and toss in brown butter sauce.

Add roasted sweet potatoes and pecans to brown butter pierogies and toss gently to coat. Top with fresh thyme leaves. Source: Mrs. T’s Pierogies (Family Features)

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Page 40 • November 2023

Brooklyn), but for a few particularly good reasons: her love for theater and performing. Baker said, “It is funny knowing that is what I grew up with and how much I loved it, while at the same time knowing my whole life I wanted to live in a city like New York and knowing that was where I wanted to be. It is just a funny dichotomy. And looking back, I would not have changed my childhood for anything, but I feel very lucky to have gotten the best of both worlds in terms of places that I have lived.” After her 2015 graduation from West Morris Central High School, Baker headed to the University of Madison at Wisconsin to study psychology. After a few months of her first year, she would return to the east coast. She explained. “It is a beautiful campus, and I did really love it there. My senior year of high school, I got scared. I had cold feet, and said to myself, ‘I am not going to audition in college. I want to do theater, but I can do it after I graduate with a real degree.’ But they did have a theater program there and everybody in the program is so very talented, but it is not catered to performers in a way that I would have liked. For instance, I did a musical there - the first musical that college had done three years - and it was a student run musical.” Although Baker said the teachers and students were fantastic, she was not progressing beyond what she he had learned in theater thus far in her life up to that

point. Back in Long Valley, she sat down with her parents and explained her dilemma. Baker said, “They helped me through college, and I know that they would have helped me do anything because they love me endlessly, but I wanted their permission. I sat them down and told them I wanted to transfer, wanted to pursue theatre – I wanted to do this.” Her parents gave her their blessing, and she was next on her way to Marymount Manhattan College. For Baker, it would be a wonderful three years. “I said, ‘Theater...the city...let’s do this!’” Baker recalled. “It was the best decision I ever made. I learned so much, and so many of the teachers are people that I will hold in my heart forever. My closest friends came from there, and I am still best friends with them today. It was just such a lovely, lovely experience, and I hate that I was gypped a year and a semester because of COVID-19, but I would not trade it for the world.” While at Marymount Manhattan College, she starred in Bring It On: The Musical, Parade, and Les Miserables, and it has all led up to her current role in Pretty Woman: The Musical, reprising the role Julia Roberts played in 1990 motion picture. Baker lauded a few Marymount folks whose help was immense. “If I had to think of a few top names from college, it would specifically be my directors from Bring It On, Emily Clark and Christine Riley,” she

said. “They cast me as lead and they worked endlessly with me, even just building up my confidence. They both came to see a New Brunswick (Pretty Woman: The Musical) show. Emily brought her two little children, and Christine came all by herself and sat in the rain and waited for me at the stage door. They are such wonderful, wonderful people.” Baker said of Pretty Woman: The Musical, “It is a little mind boggling because this is my first professional theater gig. I feel like I dove headfirst into the deep end. cont. on page 41

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It took a few weeks during the rehearsal process to finally kind of slap some sense into me and tell myself, ‘Stop talking down to yourself.’ I would get so in my head. I had not done this before. It took a few weeks for me to realize that they cast me for a reason, put me here for a reason, that I was still in rehearsals for a reason. I then finally started to find that groove in the character.” Opening night on October 2 in Utica, New York, according to Baker was exhilarating. “Right before going on stage, I was doing jumping jacks and push-ups backstage, just trying to exert some sort of energy. I was just pacing because I was so nervous. And then once we started doing the show, I realized I had been doing this over and over and over again, but now there are people sitting in the seats. That was the only difference.” Baker’s birth parents are Valarie and Evan, her four siblings are Justin, Kevin, Grace, and Grant, and her stepparents are Kevin, Sr. And Tracey. All the above-mentioned have supported her theater career, and she also credits Andrew Pelletier, a wealth management advisor for Barnum Financial Group, for whom she was working prior to getting the current role. Baker said, “He is one of the reasons why I am able to do this. He took a chance on me, and he knew that I was an actor and involved with theater. Anytime I had an audition or had to film something, he understood. He was always such a huge supporter, and then as soon as I got my role, he bought his tickets, and he came to see the show. He and my other co-workers came, they are just so kind.” Pretty Woman: The Musical will conclude its run in Scranton, Pennsylvania on May 19, 2024. Baker knows that her boyfriend, Joe (a fellow performer, by the way), who in her words is the “best person I have ever met,” will be there by her side. When asked if he will have to hold her if she tears up after curtain closing on the final show, she said, “Honestly, probably.” Baker, who turned 26 on November 18, is definitive when asked to describe her life at this moment. “I think this role has done everything for me. The production team that took a chance on me - they changed my life. My life will never be the same again after this. I can never say I did not make it in the industry, because look at where I am. I think this show changed what I believed I could do. It challenged me and pushed me.”

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