Denville Life July 23

“We feel so fortunate to have worked with Peggy Lefsky in the sale of our home. More than being a wonderful Realtor, she is a wonderful person, and we feel she treated us as if we were members of her immediate family.”

Morristown Commissioned Artist’s Photo Exhibit Captures Unsung Heroes

By Jillian Risberg

He is an accomplished artist, whose photos are uniquely distinctive. Xiomaro (as he’s known) shoots iconic historical sites to raise awareness of their history, culture, and natural beauty.

And he is a Morristown National Historical Park commissioned artist

According to Xiomaro, that journey has allowed him to stretch his creativity.

“It’s a challenge and puzzle to come away with interesting artistic photographs about an epic human story in the absence of the people who were involved,” says the photographer. “So I improve as an artist, become a better-informed citizen, and develop a deeper appreciation for the beginnings of our nation.”

He calls his newest collection, At Home with George at the Morris Museum an opportunity to reintroduce George Washington’s headquarters and the encampment of his troops during the Revolutionary War.

“This important national treasure – not just locally or state-wide, but to the nation and the global community as well on the 90th anniversary of Morristown National

Historical Park (2023),” Xio says.

The photographer has a couple of favorite shots from this exhibition, one he says is a Chippendale style mirror believed to have been in Washington’s bedroom.

“As I gazed within the ornately gilded frame, it was fascinating to think that Washington’s face may have been reflected on the very spot where I was seeing myself,” says Xiomaro. “So I knew that a photograph of that mirror was a musthave.”

He also cites his image of the Servants’ Quarters as one that piques interest.

The bedroom is shrouded in darkness that he says evokes a sense of melancholy.

“The reddish-brown of the footboard against the green foliage outside the window also gives the composition an almost abstract quality,” the photographer says, adding that visiting the actual historical site and seeing the rooms and furnishings that lived with Washington and other iconic figures is a visceral experience.

That is what Xio tries to convey through his photographs.

“Especially in closeup images of details that

might go unnoticed,” says the artist, adding he hopes the exhibit will serve as a gateway for viewers to learn more.

“If you are an artist, photographer, history buff, architect, interior designer, veteran, public servant, educator, or anyone with a thirst for knowledge, there are many elements you will appreciate during a visit to At Home With George.”

It was important to Xio to honor our nation’s unsung heroes, from Washington to the troops who suffered injury and death, widow Theodosia Ford who gave up her home for use as military headquarters, the servants and slaves who provided

support.

“Everyone had a part in fighting for independence from England, which was a superpower at that time,” he says.

Contrasting the hardships experienced during the colonial era and the sacrifices in dimly lit corners encompass just what Washington and soldiers faced every day in the decades-long fight for freedom.

According to Xiomaro, the written history impactfully describes the suffering endured fighting a war during the worst winter of the 18th century.

“It is not possible to continued on page 4

Rhoda and Mark

Xiomaro by Barbara Cittadino

Local Media Outlet Looks to the Future in Centering Stories Around the Community

By Tommy Hughes

In 1974, Geoff Millington worked with the Denville Public Library and began to videotape the library’s Story Hour to be shown across Morris Cablevision. This inspired Millington to organize a team of volunteers to begin recording events and stories across the Denville community and be further showcased across Morris Cablevision. Denville Community Television was born.

As the Denville community began to fund what became the DCTV project, upgrades in technology saw improvements from VTR to U-Matic, and VHS to S-VHS. These improvements eventually saw projects being taped digitally with computer-based editing tools improving the quality of productions. Yet as time moved forward, trademark showcases within the Denville community were being presented with a sense of redundancy. One longtime volunteer recognized this and desired more focus on the story which is the Denville community itself. His name is Dana Foreman, and he would go on to become DCTV’s producer.

Having been involved in audio and visual media for 40 years, Foreman knew that the best way to advance and adapt DCTV into a more modern media outlet was

by rebranding it into something more than being simply limited to that of local television.

This is how DCTV evolved into Denville Community Media.

“(DCM) was out videotaping (events), but nobody was getting out in front of the camera, nobody was doing voiceovers in their videos. (DCM) was (filming the events), but the quality was not there, and I thought that Denville deserved better.”

Foreman utilized this mindset when he filmed Pink Witches Night Out this past October, and the reception was overwhelmingly positive. This continued with the celebration of Denville Rotary’s Santa Land and Christmas Tree Lighting. Foreman said to himself:

“…why just get the lighting, when we can tell the story of why Santa Land is Santa Land?”

Foreman’s vision continued when presenting both the Santa Run from the Denville Volunteer Fire Department, the story of the Denville Book Barn, and the Denville Rotary Street Festival.

“I like to go with something personal.” Foreman says. “My community has great stories and great people…in the enplane, these (stories) are going to be made for forever…

what is it that drives (members of the Denville Community) to put on such an event?”

The special feeling of community is something that reminds Foreman why it is worth the effort. Foreman could take the easy way out by simply walking around Denville with his phone and videotaping things, but he knows Denville is worth more than that.

It is this mindset, vision, and implementation that saw Denville Community Media become the recipient of the Muriel Hepner Award at this year’s Denville P.R.I.D.E. Awards, recognizing Planned Recommendations for Improving Denville’s Environment.

“Our town deserves better, because (Denville) is a great community.”

Denville Community Media is currently looking for volunteers who can assist in bringing to life these memorable and impactful stories about the community. Contact: denvillecommunitymedia@usa.com for more information, and be sure to check out their YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@denvillenj to view their latest content.

Until then, they will see you around town.

Morristown Commissioned Artist’s...

continued from front page

photograph George Washington, his staff and troops,” the artist says paintings from that era tend to be idealized or romanticized depictions. “But I can resurrect their spirits when I photograph their homes, workplaces, material possessions, and the surrounding landscape.”

Xio says he often hears that his photographs look like paintings, not something he consciously does.

“I can only surmise it is because before photography I studied painting and it’s history,” he says artists like Goya, Rembrandt and Vermeer are among his favorites. “I think my handling of natural light, shadows

Did You Know?

The first All-Star game in Major League Baseball was played on July 6, 1933.

The game was an effort to make professional baseball more popular, and it remains a beloved event on the MLB calendar today. According to History.com, attendance at professional baseball games fell 40 percent between 1930 and 1933. That decline likely had little to do with the game of baseball and much to do with the Great Depression, which ultimately proved to be the longest depression of the twentieth century. The Great Depression began in 1929 and lasted a decade, and the fallout from the depression was felt in every corner and industry, including professional baseball. Many once-ardent baseball fans, who helped to establish record attendance in the 1920s, could no longer afford tickets

during the Great Depression. Arch Ward, sports editor of the Chicago Tribune, was tasked with devising a sporting event that could be held in conjunction with the 1933 World’s Fair. Ward ultimately proposed a game featuring baseball’s biggest stars, and fans were even encouraged to vote for who would play in the game. Several eventual Hall of Famers, including Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Jimmy Foxx, were voted into the game, which was played at Comiskey Park in Chicago. Nearly 48,000 fans attended the game, which ended with a 4-2 American League victory. Baseball owners and executives took note, and the game has been played nearly every year since 1933, with only war and a global pandemic preventing the league from hosting its annual Midsummer Classic.

and color has a connection to their works.”

Thanks to a grant from Morris Arts, in 2023 Xio’s camera will next take him to the Morris County Historical Society to present an exhibition (raising public awareness of the history,culture and natural beauty of Morris County) at its Acorn Hall house museum. It is the first time the locations are being artistically photographed. Dates and details are in the works.

To learn more Weir Farm National Historic Site (Arcadia Publishing) (http://

www.xiomaro.com/books.html), national park dedicated to American painting and commemorated on the US quarter… where Xio’s work photographing iconic national sites began.

In memory of his daughter (poet/painter who died in 2016 from a drug overdose after years struggling with borderline personality disorder)… 10 percent of book royalties will be donated to Emotions Matter, Inc., a nonprofit mental health care advocacy group.

Titan II: 54 Hidden Missiles

General & Cosmetic Dentistry

Sedation Dentistry: No Reason or Fear Dental Work Anymore!

patient a way to get through dental treatment in a relaxed, comfortable manner. Years of dental problems can be eliminated in just one or a few appointments, where fear and anxiety are significantly decreased, or even eliminated!

We have many patients who have started out with severe phobia, but as time has passed, the anxiety has decreased significantly. Many of our patients don’t require any sedation or anxiety management protocols anymore!

you return to a normal level of alertness. Unlike the other options described below, you will have no amnesia (meaning you will remember the procedure), and you may also drive yourself home.

level of anxiety, and the greatest level of amnesia. Again, you will be required to have a driver bring you to and from the dental appointment.

New Patient Special

Sedation Dentistry can be combined with many of the new technological advances for faster & more streamlined appointments. Examples include digital scanning, 3D printing, and GPS guided dental implants. All of these advancements are available at Morris County Dental Associates.

Ira Goldberg, DDS, FAGD, DICOI

Does the thought of going to the dentist make you break out into a cold sweat and raise your heart rate? Are you one of the many people who have put off addressing your dental needs due to anxiety and fear?

Sedation Dentistry offers the fearful

We offer three different levels of Sedation Dentistry at Morris County Dental:

NITROUS OXIDE:

OCS: ORAL CONSCIOUS SEDATION: This level of sedation, also known as “Oral Sedation” or “Enteral Sedation,” is now the most common technique used in the U.S. and Canada to diminish patient fears. Medication is taken orally, and relaxation ensues. The next day you will likely have either full or partial amnesia (meaning you won’t remember some or all of the work that was done). You will be required to have someone drive you to and from the dental office.

IV SEDATION:

You may already know which sedation option suits you best. If you’re wondering about the next step to learn more, give us a call at Morris County Dental to meet with us for a free consultation, and we can talk more: its an easy first step to improving your oral health!

Also known as “sweet air” or “laughing gas,” a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen provides you with a decent level of relaxation. As soon as the procedure is completed, the gas is turned off and

For the most fearful patient, as well as the highest level of control over fear & anxiety, a Board Certified anesthesiologist will control your level of consciousness via IV (intravenous) medication. You will be monitored by the anesthesiologist throughout the procedure. Among the 3 options presented here, you will have the most relaxation, the least fear, the lowest

Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist located in the Roxbury Mall in Succasunna. He has been providing dental treatment for 28 years, and is very well respected in the community. Services include: cleanings, check-ups, whitening, veneers, crowns, root canals, periodontal (gum) services, and dental implants. He holds many credentials and is recognized as an expert in dental implants. Please visit his website at www. morriscountydentist.com for additional information. He can be reached at 973328-1225 and at frontdesk.mcda@gmail. com

Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist with credentials in multiple organizations. Please visit his website

Dr. Goldberg is a leading expert on dental implants. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry, which is a degree held by only 1% of dentists worldwide. Whether you require a single implant or complex full-mouth rehabilitation, a free consultation with Dr. Goldberg should be considered.

Dr. Goldberg treats entire families, from toddlers to seniors. Services include cleanings, check-ups, fillings, Invisalign, dentures, cosmetics, and more! He and his staff enjoy the long-term relationships they build with their patients.

Dr. Goldberg treats entire families, from toddlers to seniors. Services dentures, cosmetics, and more! He and his staff enjoy the long-term

Ira Goldberg, DDS, FAGD, DICOI

70 Years of Serving People with Developmental Disabilities and Their Families

ArcMorris marked 70 years of serving people with disabilities and their families with a big gala, honoring community members, organizations that make a difference, public officials and Direct Support Professionals. It was a night of celebration and a look into what the next 70 years will bring!

More than 325 people attended the May 17 event at the Birchwood Manor,

111 N. Jefferson Road, Whippany, N.J. Local businesses supported the event and the funds raised will go towards supporting programs and initiatives of ArcMorris.

“Over the last seven decades we have had so many families and community members sacrifice so much,” Salvador Moran, CEO and executive director of ArcMorris, told the gathering. “Today, people with disabilities and their families enjoy better

services because of the work done for them by many dedicated community members and families who fought for their rights and access to services.”

Moran recalled that in the 1940s and 1950s, there were few options for a person with disabilities and their families. Either the person was sent to an institution, or a family member became a caretaker without much support or resources. Families

banded together to start advocacy groups like ArcMorris, as well as other Arc chapters across the country, eventually becoming crucial service providers.

ArcMorris was established in 1953, and since then has served thousands of people with disabilities and their families through various programs like day habilitation, recreation and community-based homes. continued on page 10

Representative Aura K Dunn congratulated the award winners and presented with Joint Resolutions

Morris County Vocational School District Awards Completion Certificates to Share Time Students

The Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) held a Share Time Completion Ceremony for the Class of 2023.

“INSPIRE. PREPARE. SUCCEED, are three fundamental words in the MCVSD mission statement,” said Lynne Jackson, Principal Morris County School of Technology. “The Share Time Completion Ceremony celebrated the remarkable and noble work of faculty, and the grit and dedication of our students”.

The Ceremony featured three student speakers, Gwendolyn DiNardo, Farrah Foskey, and Marcus Briceno, students in Cosmetology and Electrical Trades Programs, in addition to business partner and guest speaker, Mr. John O’Connor. Since 1976, Mr. O’Connor has been the owner/operator of Shade Tree Garage in Morristown, NJ.

Prior to concluding the ceremony with the awarding of certificates and cords, Principal Jackson spent a few minutes recognizing successes. Many students participated in SkillsUSA competitions, earning medals as juniors, seniors, or both. Students in Carpentry and Electrical Trades programs collaborated with Habitat for Humanity. Cosmetology students provided manicures, haircuts and hair styling for Hanover Park Hive Program, and services to special needs adults at the Universal

Institute Rehabilitation Center in Livingston in preparation for their prom. Allied Health students sorted and packed medical supplies, celebrated Nurse’s Week at Chilton Hospital, and organized two blood drives. Culinary Arts & Hospitality students organized a food drive to benefit a local food pantry, and Food Services collaborated with students in MCVSD Global Supply Chain Management Academy to serve Mexican cuisine at the Lake Hopatcong Block Party.

Additionally, numerous students participated in a Work-based Learning Experience in their respective trade area while simultaneously earning high school credit. Two students in the Cybersecurity program, Will Mackenzie Masino from Jefferson Twp HS. and Christian DiGiacomo, from Madison HS, earned their Associates Degree in tandem with earning their High School Diploma.

The next steps for Share Time students involve moving directly into the workforce or an apprenticeship, participating in a technical training program, and/or attending a 2-year or 4-year college or university. A few will also serve their community or country - Matthew Lizza, Fire Department First Responder; Christopher Flanagan, Chester Fire Department; Justin Schorno, Rockaway Fire Department; Nicole Estacio, Army; Daniel Vargas, Air

Force; Nicholas DiMichino, Air Force; Angel Burton, New Jersey National Guard.

SkillsUSA is a national membership association serving high school, college, and middle school students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical, and skilled service occupations. SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce.

Morris County Vocational School District offers a wide range of career and technical education programs that inspire and prepare students to succeed in today’s world and pursue tomorrow’s opportunities. Programs range from auto service and construction trades to healthcare sciences, global commerce, performing arts and cybersecurity. The high school offers full-time academies and share-time programs on its Denville campus. In addition, through collaboration with local school districts and the County College of Morris, it offers full-time academies and share-time programs established at offsite satellite locations.

To learn more, email Gina DiDomenico, MCVSD Student Recruitment & Community Relations, at didomenicog@ mcvts.org or visit www.mcvts.org

NAME: Mike Lateiner, DMD, MS

NAME: Ami Dhaduk, DMD

NAME: Denise Kitay, DDS, MMSc

dental group kids LOVE and their parents trust!

I Remember Dad: The Importance of North

By Richard Mabey Jr.

My father had a most uncanny sense of north. It seemed to be engrained within his veins. He could be deep in the forest, hiking the Appalachian Trail, and he could easily point out north with amazing accuracy. I am convinced that it was a Divine gift.

For my father, there was an unspoken importance of knowing where north lied at all times. Dad and I hiked dozens upon dozens of forest trails, historical hikes, and week-long vigils of traversing long and winding portions of the grand and glorious Appalachian Trail. Through a time period of a little over 25 years, of all so many hikes with Boy Scout Troop 170, Dad carried with him a deep instinct of wherein north lied.

Over the years, Dad taught his scouts methods to find north, without a compass. One of my father’s favorite methods of finding north along a wooded trail, was the Shadow Stick Method. It only takes about five minutes to complete and it is totally fool proof. There are many articles about the Shadow Stick Method on the Internet.

I never heard of anyone else talk about the Shadow Stick Method. Whenever we would take a lunch break, on wooded hikes with the scouts, Dad would eat his sandwich

rather quickly. Then have the boys gather round him in a circle, to teach them the Shadow Stick Method.

“It’s important to know where north lies at all times, when hiking in the woods,” my father would tell his scouts. In the Holy Bible, in the Book of Deuteronomy, the second chapter and third verse, it is clearly stated, “you have circled this mountain long enough. Now turn north.”

In our modern day life, we no longer think much about the importance of knowing wherein lies the north. My grandmother once told me that when my dad was a boy of about 10 or 11 years old, he was given a compass by his Aunt Reedie. Grandma told me how much Dad cherished his compass. I think that God inspired Aunt Reedie to give Dad a compass, when he was a boy, to prepare him to become a good Scoutmaster in his adult life.

My father often told the scouts of Boy Scout Troop 170 of the importance of having a handle of where north lied, along a wooded trail. That was imperative for longdistance hiking, especially when walking the long, winding, rocky Appalachian Trail.

It was during the Summer of 1971, I remember it all so well. I had just graduated from Boonton High School. Troop 170 had

been hiking the Appalachian Trail for about three days or so. We still had a good three days of hiking left, to complete our weeklong hike along the famous AT. It was night time. We were all sitting around a campfire we had built.

Dad pointed out the Big Dipper to the boys. They all looked up to the night sky. Then my father told the boys to concentrate

on the side of the Big Dipper that did not have the panhandle on it. He told the boys to imagine a line being drawn from the star at the base of the side of the Big Dipper to the star at the top. Then Dad told the scouts to imagine that line continuing out to the sky and that line would lead their eyes to the North Star.

continued on page 10

From a scout hike in 1985. My dad is standing on the far left-hand side of this picture. A few of the scouts of Boy Scout Troop 170 are in the center. Mr. Donald L. Talbot, Assistant Scoutmaster, is standing on the far right-hand side.

70 Years of Serving People...

continued from page 7

This year ArcMorris plans on opening two more group homes that will be geared toward people with high medical and behavioral needs.

The organization recently bought a local farm in Randolph where its member will be able to enjoy outdoor activities and visit with animals. The farm will also welcome community members who would like to contribute and volunteer.

“We have made so much progress but our work is not done yet,” Moran said. “We are going to continue to create programs that are meaningful for those we serve.”

N.J. Assemblywoman Aura Dunn spoke at the dinner of how important it is to support organizations like ArcMorris because “each and every one of us is impacted and connected to someone with an intellectual or developmental disability.” She presented joint resolutions

I Remember Dad...

continued from page 9

My father taught me all so very much about the ways of the wild, to appreciate the midnight call of a hoot owl, to appreciate the stature and gait of the white-tailed deer, and to love and respect all of nature.

I dearly loved and respected my father. I miss him all so very much. It breaks my heart to hear a young person complain about their father, or to hear a father complain about one of his children. None of us can stop the ticking of

to the organization and every award winner.

The night opened with a heartwarming performance of the MPAC’s Performing Arts Company who sang the National Anthem.

One of the highlights of the evening was the special award presentation to ArcMorris for Distinguished Service from the Hanover Township presented by Township Committee Members Ronald Francioli and John Ferramosca.

The following community members were presented with awards for their work for those with I/DD in the past year: Dr. Christine Hoffman-Payne of Morristown, Jessica Chila of Ridgefield, John Gatti of Cedar Knolls, Dave Gould of Dover, James Gallagher of Dover and Walter & Ann Bender of Long Valley.

The following organizations were recognized for the support they provide to people with disabilities and to

ArcMorris: Hanover Township Executive Committee and Town Administrators, Saint Luke Parish Special Needs Ministry of Long Valley, Weis Markets

The following ArcMorris staff members were honored for their service, hard work and dedication to people with disabilities and their families:

Chi-que Jones of Newark, Gloria Harris of Hopatcong, Judith Raymond-Georges of Maplewood, Luz Garcia of Dover, Olga Cruz of Hackettstown, Rachel Perryman of Montville, Antoinette Kpah of Newark, Elvia Orama of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, Sharon Yawger of Budd Lake and Gail Paradise of Wharton.

the clock, the passing of the seasons, and the tearing off of a calendar’s pages. Love is the key to all human relations. Love knows no limitations. Love the dear ones in your life. And always forgive, forgive and forgive.

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.

New Superintendent of Schools, Norcia, Takes Helm in Morris Hills School District

by Jeff Garrett

Anew era starts formally this Summer into Fall in the Morris Hills School District with the Spring 2023. Announcement that Mr. Nicolas Norcia will be the next Superintendent of Schools for the Morris Hill ]Regional District.

In their April 24 meeting President of the Board of Education, Mr. Michael Bertram said, “we had many] talented people interested in helping us run this district. After a thorough evaluation of all of them, we selected Mr. Norcia.”

Norcia comes with experience to put it mildly. He comes over from Fair Lawn School Public School District, where he was Superintendent of Schools from 2018 until the present, having overseen 10 schools with 1000 staff members; 5800 students and a $135 million budget. He served as assistant superintendent at fair Lawn in 2017-18. At Morris Hills, he will oversee two high schools - Morris

Hills and Morris Knolls High Schools with 3,000 students from Denville, Rockaway Borough, Rockaway Township and Wharton.

Prior to 2017, Norcia gained experience holding administrative and leadership positions at the high school and district level. Among those roles were stints as Director of Special Services at Morris Hills Regional School District from 2010-2017 Prior to that, Nicola was Director of Student Services at Cedar Grove Board of Education from October 2007 through July 2010. Additionally, he was a Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant with Nutley Board of Education from August 2005 through August 2007 and served as a Special Education teacher at Nutley High School from September 2002 through August 2005 in Nutley, NJ. He was a Special Education teacher at Ridgefield High School from September 2001 until August 2002.

His education pedigree includes a B.A. in Special Education with a concentration in psychology and M.A. in Educational

Leadership obtained at New Jersey City University. He also holds a Certificate of Completion from the Certificate program as a Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant.

Norcia addressed the Board and community on April 24 when he was approved as the new Superintendent saying, “thank you to the Board of Education for your support. It feels good to be coming back home. I’m so happy to be here and thrilled to be working here. I look forward to working with this community and building relationships again her at Morris County Regional.” Norcia replaces acting superintendent, Dr Nisha Zoeller who filled in this Spring, after superintendent since 2009, James Jencarelli, resigned in late April.

Bertram expressed his gratitude for having Norcia take the position of Superintendent of Schools thanking former superintendent James Jencarelli for his 14 years of service and dedication to the District.

NJStarz

NJ Starz: Dr. Bruce Murphy

Hometown: Hackettstown

By Steve Sears

As he ends his tenure at Centenary University, outgoing President Dr. Bruce Murphy thinks only good things – especially about the future. He says, “I think I’ll be hoping that the things that we’ve done, the things that we put in place, and the programs that we’ve started, that they all come to fruition, and that they all help to make the institution greater than it is, and as great as it can be.”

Murphy’s tenure at Centenary saw positive growth and change, significant challenges, and deep grief as well. His last day was June 30, and Dale G. Caldwell, former executive director of the Rothman Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Fairleigh Dickinson University, became the first African American leader in Centenary’s 156-year history on July 1.

Murphy was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the early 1950s to his parents, George and Ruth Murphy. The

Murphys moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico where his dad started working for the Air Force. Two years after that, the Murphys moved to California.

For Bruce Murphy and his brother, Dennis, scouting was a huge part of their lives. “We were both Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Explorer Scouts,” Murphy says. “We both earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and we are vigil honor members of the Order of the Arrow. We were very active in the leadership of the various organizations that we were part of. I spent five years working as a counselor on Catalina Island just off the coast of California, and this was a significant influence on my life. I got to teach classes, mostly on the waterfront—swimming, lifesaving, rowing, canoeing, sailing, etc. - but also some of the dryland stuff. That is where I learned to love teaching; to see a student transform in their skills, knowledge, and attitudes about a subject that I cared deeply about, and hoped that they

continued on page 16

Bruce Murphy with his late wife, Dr. Jeanne Picariello Murphy. Courtesy of Dr. Bruce Murphy

Sweet Girl Needs a Special FURever home!

You haven’t lived until you’ve had Andie’s gorgeous eyes looking up at you with a ball in her mouth! Andie just LOVES to fetch. Don’t be surprised to glance down and catch her curious gaze staring right up at you, begging to play.

Her stunning eyes and silky tan fur make Andie a very beautiful girl who receives lots of compliments. This playful girl loves dogs and people, including young children . She would do best with larger, more confident adult dogs as she is still young, but she was totally in love with her bigger former foster brother! She loves everyone! Unfortunately, Andie has recently found herself back at the kennel after a long stay in a foster home. While it would be ideal to help her find her FURever home, we are also

looking for someone who could foster her as well.

Andie’s the perfect size at just about 50 lbs. This pretty Pittie, though, is unable to control her entire cute body from wiggling in excitement when you walk in the door, even if it’s only been three minutes.

Despite Andie’s many wonderful qualities, she has a mild autoimmune diagnosis which is currently

controlled with daily medication. Andie does not let this slow her down, though, and she lives life to the fullest! If you’re looking for a happy go lucky little side kick in life, then Andie’s your girl! *SPECIAL NEEDS * Please apply to adopt ANDIE LONESTAR at WWW. EHRDOGS.ORG - although she loves her foster family, she would love to find her very own forever home!

NJ Starz...

continued from page 13

would, too.”

Murphy recalls the dedication of his parents to ensuring that their sons had a positive influence in their lives. “Especially my dad,” Murphy says. “He never had the opportunity to go camping or hiking with his dad, but he threw himself into it, and through reading and research, was able to lead a group of young boys in a program that he had never experienced himself. I always remember on campouts the other dads, who were the outdoorsman’s type and had knives and cowboy hats and things like that, were in sharp contrast to my dad, who wore the official scout uniform, including necktie, and carried a briefcase in the campsite.”

Another big influence on Murphy’s life was athletics, especially in high school. Having never played sports competitively prior to Crespi Carmelite High School in Encino, California, Murphy attained some heights.

He says, “I made the league championships in track (9th in shot put), varsity tennis (we only had one level), and football. On the freshman and JV football teams my first two years, I was a two-way starter (offensive guard and defensive end) and twice selected game captain. On the varsity, my final two years, I played a little less, but enjoyed it more because it was under the lights.”

Murphy went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley, master’s degrees from both the

Teachers College at Columbia University and the University of Southern California, and a doctorate from Vanderbilt University in educational leadership. A United States Army veteran, Dr. Murphy retired with the rank of lieutenant colonel, and afterwards taught leadership courses at West Point, and was vice president for academic affairs at the United States Air Force’s Air University in Alabama. A former professor at both Vanderbilt University and Mercyhurst College, Murphy is the founding director of the latter’s Master of Science in organizational leadership program, and the founding dean of the School of Business and professor of management at Point Park University in Pittsburgh. Prior to Centenary, he was the fifth president of Nicholls State University in Louisiana and was also a professor of educational leadership there.

Dr. Murphy and his late wife, Jeanne Picariello Murphy, took over at Centenary University on January 1, 2020, and started running things just before the Covid-19 pandemic.

“It certainly wasn’t on the game plan, and they didn’t tell me about that when I interviewed,” Murphy said with a chuckle.

“I can recall when it happened that you could tell that it was going to be something big, it was going to impact everybody’s lives, and it was going to impact the way we operate. We had to make some decisions and some decisions were thrust upon us -

continued on page 17

Dr. Bruce Murphy when President of Nichols State University, visiting with the University of Georgia Bulldogs mascot. Credit Centenary University.

NJ Starz...

continued from page 16

and I am sure there was a little bit of luck in there. As I look back and reflect on it, we did some things early on that I think really helped us steer a straight course through it.”

Murphy is extremely proud of the academic advances made during his three and a half years at the school, including expansion of academic programs like financial planning, data analytics, computer science, and especially in the health and

wellness sector. New programs in medical laboratory science, health science, public health, exercise science, and a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree are now offered, as is a master’s online program in Happiness Studies.

“That’s a program that’s the first in the world of a master’s level program,” Murphy says of Happiness Studies. “It generally talks about the field of happiness for the individual at the organizational,

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and almost at the societal level as well.”

97 students in October 2022 were taking the program. “That’s unheard of, quite frankly, in higher education, graduate, or new program startups - particularly one that nobody has ever done before. It is very gratifying, and they are doing well. We have students from all over the world that are taking the program. It looks like it is really going to pay off for us, and so I am glad that we did that.”

As exciting as the past three and a half years have been for Murphy, there is deep sadness as well. Jeanne Picariello Murphy, First Lady of Centenary University, was tragically killed in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident in January. A celebration of her life here was held on campus on the 22nd of January, and she was honored in April with interment at Arlington National Cemetery.

A former member of the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee, she was the first woman ever on the USA Modern Pentathlon team, was involved with an Olympic-themed speaker series on campus last year, and as a former Army nurse, she also played a role in the university’s new RN to BSN program, which is set to launch this fall.

The husband-and-wife duo were a wonderful team, especially at Centenary. Murphy says, “I found out a lot about her since her passing that I did not know about. I have been in contact with her high school classmates. They have inducted her into the Roosevelt High School Hall of Fame in St. Louis. That is going to happen in August. I am going out there for that.

She was just an incredible personality. I know that she was such a force.”

“She is going to be with me forever, and she is going to be with so many other people forever.”

Murphy, 73, will now reside in Florida, and further feed a hobby he enjoys.

He says, “There is one thing that I was going to do way back in 2020 but COVID got in the way. I paid for it back then, but I have been postponing it. I am going to do it this summer, and that is going to a photo safari to South Africa. Jeanne was always encouraging me, but cautiously encouraging me because of her health background, saying, ‘You cannot go there now.’ ‘And so, I asked myself, ‘Should I continue to do that?’ Well, I think she is talking to me, and she is saying, ‘Go on that safari, because you have been waiting a long time.”

Dr. Bruce Murphy offers what he feels is the secret to life.

“It is something that Jeanne made part of her message. When a door opens, take advantage of it. There are opportunities that you never really think about, that you never know about. This is something that I always try to communicate to students, particularly students that are struggling while selecting a major. I always say that you should have a life plan and set that out, but along the way, there are going to be opportunities that present themselves. Do not be afraid to take those opportunities, to open that door and to go through it, because you never know what is going to happen.”

Heading outdoors for a fresh, homemade meal is an alluring activity when warm weather and sunshine provide a perfect opportunity for dining on the patio. Or, if some time away from the house is calling your name, packing a lunch and taking off for the park can be an ideal getaway without getting too far from home.

Next time the sun’s rays call your name, invite friends and family for a delicious picnic loaded with warm-weather flavors. Just lay out your favorite blanket on the grass or don an outdoor table with a classic checkered tablecloth then share recipes that make al fresco meals truly memorable.

No picnic is complete without sandwiches loaded with all your favorite toppings, and these Picnic-wiches with Greek Artichoke Beet Salad provide the freshness that outdoor meals are made of. This recipe starts with a homemade relish loaded with Aunt Nellie’s Pickled Beets, artichoke hearts, olives and green onions that complements the winning combination of turkey, feta and ciabatta.

Pair your party tray of sandwiches with a perfect partner like Bean, Tortellini and Pesto Salad made with READ Bean Salad for a complete spread that’ll leave you waiting for the next opportunity to take mealtime outdoors. With just a handful of ingredients and customizable with your desired stir-ins like tomatoes, peppers and green onions, it’s ready in next to no time.

To find more picnicworthy appetizers, meals, sides and more, visit readsalads.com and auntnellies.com.

Picnic-wiches with Greek

Pack a Perfect Al Fresco Pairing

Artichoke Beet Salad

Servings: 6

1 jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Pickled Beets

1 jar (about 6 ounces)

marinated artichoke hearts

1/2 cup pitted kalamata or ripe olives, sliced

3 tablespoons sliced green onions

freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)

6 romaine lettuce leaves

1 pound thinly sliced deli turkey

6 ciabatta or sandwich rolls, sliced horizontally

1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Drain beets and artichoke hearts, reserving 1/4 cup liquid from each. Coarsely chop beets and artichoke hearts. In medium bowl, combine beets, artichokes, olives and green onions; set aside.

In small bowl, whisk reserved beet and artichoke liquids. Pour over beet mixture; toss gently to coat.

Season with black pepper, to taste, if desired.

Layer lettuce and turkey on bottom halves of rolls.

Top with relish, as desired; feta cheese; and pine nuts.

Top with remaining halves of rolls. Wrap tightly; chill up to 4 hours. Serve with remaining relish.

Bean, Tortellini and Pesto Salad

Servings: 6

2 cans (15 ounces each)

READ 3 or 4 Bean Salad

1/4 cup prepared basil pesto

1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)

1 package (9 ounces)

refrigerated tortellini

grape tomatoes (optional)

halved cherry tomatoes

(optional)

chopped bell pepper

(optional)

thinly sliced green onions

(optional)

Drain bean salad, reserving 1/2 cup liquid. In bowl, combine reserved liquid, pesto and salt, if

desired; set aside. Cook tortellini according to package directions; drain,

rinse in cold water and drain again. Add pesto dressing; toss to coat. Add grape

tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper and green onion, as desired. Toss

with

bean salad. Serve at room temperature or chilled. (Family Features)

New Jersey NASCAR Driver Keeps Dream Alive Through Realistic Expectations

By Tommy Hughes

When thinking of the state of New Jersey, regular enthusiasts of automobile racing may instantly think of the local short tracks. The paved facilities of Old Bridge Township and Wall Stadium, and the dirt facilities of Bridgeport and New Egypt. Other enthusiasts may think of the New Jersey Motorsports Park road course, or the recognizable sport heroes of Dallenbach, Evernham, and Truex.

Stephen Mallozzi’s journey has been emotionally based. A member of Generation Z, it was being able to name car brands, collect die-cast cars, and the art of video games that introduced him to the sport he loves so much. Becoming a competitor, Mallozi took up karting with hopes to one day enter the foray of stock car racing.

Sounds to be the perfect plot for a sports movie from Walt Disney Pictures. Yet Mallozzi’s focus on the little things is what keeps him grounded. A focus on spending time with his inspired Mallozzi to put his racing dreams on hold. His father was battling Stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer, and Mallozzi was unsure how much time his father would have left. As a result, Mallozzi walked away from the sport he loved so much. He switched his focus to commentary, eventually working for the ACC Network for a while, while also becoming a writer for tobychristie.com. Yet as his father overcame his illness, Mallozzi realized that his athletic mindset on automobile racing is what kept him going, and what he needed to continue to strive for.

Mallozzi made his way to North Carolina. While focused on his dream and his fire reignited, he remembered to keep his

expectations realistic. Was there a path to make that dream a reality? After making a few starts in late-model racing, Mallozzi was able to obtain a license to compete in NASCAR. Becoming a developmental driver for Reame Brothers Racing, Mallozzi was able to make his NASCAR-sanctioned debut in what is now known as the Craftsman Truck Series. That experience at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course was what led to another opportunity this past April in the Long John Silver’s 200 at Martinsville Speedway. Driving back to Charlottesville after the 200’s rain-delayed conclusion, he was serving tables at the local Outback Steakhouse the following afternoon. He sold his truck just so he was able to make the trip to Madison, Illinois to compete at World Wide Technology Raceway this past month — utilizing the power of social media to continue to make his dream possible and attain financial backing.

Mallozzi is currently licensed to compete at NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series-sanctioned events at oval facilities 1.25 miles and under. Now having competed at World Wide Technology Raceway this past month, Mallozzi hopes to be approved to compete at sanctioned facilities 1.5 miles and greater. Mallozzi could attempt to qualify for upcoming events at Richmond Raceway, Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, and the Milwaukee Mile. While he would have the exposure, the length of those facilities would not help in Mallozzi’s desire for full approval to compete in the league.

“The Goal is…to find (the team and myself) at a Pocono or a Kansas, and then, hopefully, get approved to do Talladega and Daytona.”

Mallozzi continues to live out his dream. His way, with

realistic expectations. As Mallozzi prepares for law school in the coming months, he knows that if he wants to convert this dream into a full-time gig, the time to go is now. For the sport of stock car racing, Charlotte, North Carolina is the central hub. With a focus on the primary and secondgeneration athletes in Busch, Hamlin, Elliott, and Dillon among others, the Cinderella stories of Bayne and Fedewa are often overlooked when focusing on the next generation of competitors. As the 29th season of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series continues across Fox Sports and the Motor Racing Network, Mallozzi hopes to be back competing in the NCTS this year -- hopefully, with backing from Outback Steakhouse.

Stephen Mallozzi can be followed on Twitter: @ drivermallozzi. Visit Stephen’s website: stephenmallozzigear. com.

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