EAST HANOVER FLORHAM PARK
BY ELSIE WALKER STAFF WRITER
EAST HANOVER - The congregation of Kitchell Memorial Presbyterian Church, 469 Ridgedale Avenue in East Hanover, is excited. Last month, the Board and Session of Kitchell Memorial Presbyterian Church formally announced that it is pursuing a full-scale renovation to the church property set to take place sometime in the Fall of 2026. They have been working with JDD Studio, a boutique architectural firm based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota. As noted in the announcement of the renovation, “The goal of this project is to create a space that exists to serve its East Hanover community as much as it will serve its congregation. We believe the church exists to worship God and love its neighbors. That is our guiding principle and highest aim along this journey.” In addition to its worship space and serving the needs of its congregation, the
FLORHAM PARK - Florham Park residents and the surrounding community have come through again! The holiday saw the best-ever season of donated gifts under the Angel Tree. The Angel Tree program seeks to grant wishes for disadvantaged children - children who were orphaned, in resource (aka foster) families, or of families struggling.
The “Angel Tree” is sponsored by the Florham Park Rotary and coordinated through the NJ Division of Child Permanency and Protection (formerly known as DYFS) whose local office is in Morris Plain.
In a long annual tradition, residents visit the Florham Park Post Office to select an ornament with a child’s wishes from the Angel Tree and return with wrapped gift(s). In many cases these are the only gifts the children receive during the holidays. This year the parish at Amazing Grace Lutheran Church joined the effort, led by Pastor Beau Nelson and coordinated by parishioner Eunice Dickenson.
Kitchell Memorial Presbyterian Church Announces Renovation Plans
building is home to various local chapters, troops, nonprofits, and organizations that have been a part of its community for many years. Recently, the church’s pastor, Rev. Hannah Faye Allred, talked about the architectural firm and shared some reasons for the renovation and congregation members Nicole Brose and Carol Corea, both of East Hanover, shared why they are excited about the renovation and what they are most looking forward to from the it.
“[We ] love the façade and structure,” said Allred of the church building which was erected in 1898. She explained that they’re not changing it, just renovating it to better serve the congregation and community. That was one of the reasons for renovating the property: to have a space there that could be used for multiple purposes. Another is that the
church building doesn’t match the spirit of the congregation as it is now. The congregation is multi-generational and growing. Thus, the building needs to reflect that. For example, the renovation will include changing tables for babies and making the building more handicapped accessible for older congregants.
JDD Studio’s Rob Hunter, lead architect, and his assistant, Cole Feriancek, have been working closely with the congregation on the project. Allred shared that the design firm’s philosophy is that it doesn’t come in and tell the client what’s best but listens to the client and hears its story. The firm has talked to everyone from long time congregants to new ones and to others, like a preschool, which rents space from the church.
Corea, who has been attending the church for over 30 years and is an Elder, the Clerk
gatis; East Hanover, Claire Bogan; Florham Park, Santino Pena; East Hanover and Nancy Bush; East Hanover. The ads that “Hank the Hor-
of Session, and a musician at the church, noted that a dedicated group of church Elders has been working diligently with the pastor and the architectural firm, “…plus, we have the expressed support of the town and school officials, both critical to making this plan come to life. Since we are located in the center of town, we
would like to be more visible but in a way that enhances the neighborhood and invites people in,” she said. Brose is a newer member of the congregation, having attended the church for less than two years. When asked what excites her about the renovation, she said, “I am most looking forward to seeing a proper
Angel Tree Program A Huge Success
On Sunday, December 8, after service, parishioners gathered all the gifts they purchased for the children and wrapped them up for delivery.
Said Pastor Nelson, “We are very happy to have this partnership with the Florham Park Rotary making these donations to such an important cause”.
The following day, Rotarian Peter Nicolas and parishioners Eunice Dickenson and Andrea Sullivan met with Child Protection and Permanency representatives, Jaime O’Leary and Darlene Perez, to deliver the gifts to the office in preparation for distribution to the children.
In the meantime, through December 20, residents continued to deliver the gifts they purchased and wrapped, and placed them under the Angel Tree where Post Office employees stored them for pickup. In addition to pick ups by the Agency, Rotarians George and Judy Gregor made several trips back and forth.
PLEASE SEE ANGEL TREE, PAGE 2
were in: Kam Man Supermarket, Christine Nagy, Jackson Eye Care, Wreaths Across America, 200 Club and Window Works. Thanks to everyone who enter and congratulations to our winners! Winner from December’s
Sunday School room for the children, where they have the tools and space to really give their hearts to learning the Bible’s stories. I am also excited to see an expanded sanctuary to accommodate all of the special music we incorporate into our services and the grow-
PLEASE SEE KITCHELL CHURCH, PAGE 4
FLORHAM PARK - This year, the students of Brooklake School in Florham Park raised over 3,000 items to donate to the Interfaith Food Pantry of Morris County. This event was organized by the Florham Park PTA as a way to support the local community. We were able to fill 6 SUVs full of donations. I am including some quotes and photos below. I will also give the names of
those in each photo.
Robert Foster, Principal stated “This annual food drive has truly become a great experience for our students. We created a competition among homerooms to see which class could bring in the most items. I am so proud of all of our students for being engaged and excited about an event that benefits our community and helps families in need.”
Calvin G, 5th grader, said “This food drive will have a positive impact on so many people because it helps them to have a Happy Thanksgiving and holiday season.”
Milena M, 5th Grader, stated “So many people do not have food or other things they need every day. The food drive is a great way for us to help those people who are in need.”
In addition to the work from the school, PTA parent Mrs Philips worked closely with the school and Interfaith Food Pantry to organize the event and ensure transportation for donations. Additionally, PTA parents Mrs Rate, Mrs Nigra, Mrs Comprelli, & Mrs Cicalese helped in loading, unloading, and delivering donations.
Brooklake Students Matteo M, Nicholas Y, Jules S, Brandon B, Alex W, Sophia P, Emma F, Shannon L, Ali F, Principal Robert Foster
Brooklake School - November Food Drive
Nina Nieves of the Florham Park Post Office with Angel Tree gifts loaded in SUV
Pastors Dean Brown and Beau Nelson with parishioner Eunice Dickenson
CASA for Children of Essex County Welcomes Fourteen New Advocates to Champion Youth Place in Foster Care
lives.”
Tree...
Damion Bernard, Rotary club president explained that this season, the donations Florham Park residents, plus those added by Amazing Grace Lutheran Church parishioners, helped contribute to the most successful holiday season in recent memory. It was completed just in time for the holidays that followed the following week. He also thanked the Florham Park Post Office for hosting the Angel Tree location again. “This really is a fine example of a community coming together” Bernard extolled. Visit https://www.nj.gov/ dcf/about/divisions/dcpp/ to
learn more about the NJ Department of Children and Families, Division of Child Protection and Permanency. About Rotary Rotary International is a nonpolitical and nonsectarian organization open to all people, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, or political preference. There are 40,000+ clubs in 200 countries worldwide dedicated to humanitarian services, high ethical standards, and goodwill and peace around the world. It is a global network of 1.4 million people who volunteer their skills and resources to solve issues and address community needs. Florham Park has one such
club that strives to make a positive impact. Guests are welcome to attend a weekly Rotary breakfast meeting at the Florham Park Diner at 182 Ridgedale Ave to learn more and perhaps consider joining. Meetings are 7:47 to 8:50 a.m. every Friday.
For additional information about the Florham Park Rotary visit the website at www.FlorhamParkRotary.org, check Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/428768947164657, or contact Membership Chair George Gregor via: ggregor@ florhamparkrotary.org or 917848-0982.
advocates are now equipped to provide essential support and guidance to children navigating the complexities of the foster care system. Their journey culminated in a heartfelt swearing-in ceremony held at the Essex County Family Courthouse, where they celebrated their accomplishments alongside family, friends, and CASA staff at a courthouse reception.
“Our new advocates exemplify the spirit of compassion and commitment that defines CASA Essex,” said Marla HIgginbotham, Executive Director of CASA Essex. “Their dedication ensures that foster youth in our community receive the highest level of care and advocacy during critical transitional moments in their
The newly sworn-in advocates have already begun their work, partnering with CASA Essex to ensure that the voices of foster youth are heard and their needs met. Through their efforts, these children will have a dedicated champion advocating for their well-being, education, and placement in safe, loving homes.
CASA Essex invites the community to join us in celebrating this milestone and recognizing the tireless commitment of these incredible volunteers. Together, we can continue to create brighter futures for the most vulnerable members of our community.
CASA for Children of Essex County is actively looking for additional volunteers.
For more information on how to apply for this unique volunteer opportunity that will change a child’s life, email our Outreach Coordinator, Alexis Pugliese, at apugliese@casaessex.org
Bloomfield: Courtney Redfern
Livingston: William Friedman
Newark: Brian Jasey, Jennifer Lambert, Kariemah Muhammad, Matthew Tantoy, Ruth Rodriguez, Shantiece Williams Parlin: Katherina Abreu
Pittstown: Phyllis Meichel
South Orange: Lester Jacinto, Phoebe Schwinder
Westfield: Michelle Lessner
Whitehouse Station: Allison Lavallato
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FROM FRONT PAGE
Amazing Grace Lutheran Church parishioners with their Angel Tree gift purchases for a child. Lisa Derner, Glan Derner, Gretal O’Brien, Ed Glandak
Division of Child Protection and Permanency Jaime O’Reilly and Kara Vinicelli with gifts from Florham Park Rotary Angel Tree.
Longevity Veterinary Center Introduces Cutting-Edge Stem Cell Therapy and Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatments for Pets
WHIPPANY - Longevity Veterinary Center is thrilled to announce the launch of advanced regenerative medicine options for pets, offering Stem Cell Therapy and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). Therapy to help pets achieve improved mobility, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life. These groundbreaking treatments harness the body’s natural healing mechanisms to address a wide range of conditions in cats and dogs.
What Are Stem Cell Therapy and PRP Therapy?
• Stem Cell Therapy: This
BY ELSIE WALKER STAFF WRITER
AREA - It’s an auction for a great cause and you don’t even have to leave your home to participate. It’s the annual winter Eleventh Hour Rescue auction which features a variety of items being auctioned off to help animals. There’s no overhead to the auction; all auctioned items are donated so all the money will go to the veterinary bills of the rescue, which in 2024 were $526, 000.
Recently, Jeannie Patsarikas, of Long Valley, tricky tray/ auction team lead, and Kathy Dolce of West Caldwell, sponsorships and grants, talked about the auction and the work of the rescue. Its adoptable pets can be seen on its website at www.ehrevents.org
The virtual auction opens on February 15th at 9am and runs to Friday, February 21st at 4pm. It is held via a Facebook Group. To join the Facebook group for the auction, people access it once the auction starts through a link on an Eleventh Hour Res-
treatment involves extracting stem cells, usually from the pet’s fat tissue, and processing them to isolate the regenerative cells. These stem cells are then injected into damaged tissues, where they stimulate repair, reduce inflammation, and promote the growth of new, healthy cells.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP is derived from a small sample of the pet’s own blood. The sample is processed to concentrate platelets and growth factors, which are then injected into areas of injury or chronic inflammation
to accelerate healing and reduce discomfort.
Conditions These Therapies Can Help Treat
Both treatments have shown promising results for pets suffering from a variety of conditions, including:
• Osteoarthritis: Reducing joint pain and improving mobility in aging or arthritic pets.
• Tendon and Ligament Injuries: Speeding recovery and strengthening connective tissue.
• Spinal Issues: Supporting recovery from intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).
• Chronic Pain Management: Offering relief for conditions that have not responded to traditional medications.
• Wound Healing: Accelerating the repair of surgical or trauma-related wounds.
How These Treatments Work
Stem Cell Therapy and PRP Therapy work by boosting the body’s own ability to heal:
1. Minimally Invasive: Both procedures require only small samples of fat tissue or blood.
2. Natural Healing: The treatments rely on the animal’s own cells, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions.
3. Rapid Relief: Many pets show noticeable improvement in pain levels and mobility within weeks of treatment.
Why Choose Longevity Veterinary Center?
At Longevity Veterinary Center, our mission is to bring the latest advancements in veterinary medicine to your beloved pets. Our team of experienced veterinarians is trained in regenerative therapies and is committed to tailoring treatment plans to the unique needs of each patient.
“We are excited to offer these innovative therapies that
Eleven Hour Rescue Virtual Auction
cue webpage: https://www. ehrevents.org Once in the Facebook group, people will see pictures of each item and a description of it plus the opening and incremental bid for it. In the comments area, a person puts their bid. Those who bid are notified if someone else puts in a higher bid. After the auction closes, items won can be picked up at the organization’s Roxbury Thrift Store and Adoption Center in the Roxbury Mall on either February 23rd from 12pm – 3pm or on February 26th from 6:30 – 7:30pm.
While items are still coming in, Patsarikas noted those that have come in so far. They include a Bradford Portrait and Overnight Stay at the Opus Westchester (a $5000 value), $1000 Gift Certificate towards a 10+ day Regent Seven Seas Cruise, $200 Gift Certificate towards a 7+ day Royal Caribbean Cruise, 60 Minute Treatment at any Massage Envy, four tickets to the Ster-
ling Hill Underground Mine Tour, a Kindle, Amazon Gift Cards, Longhorn Restaurant Gift Card, Clinique Makeup and Skincare, appliances (Ninja Air Fryer, Blender, Coffee Maker, Chopper), four Zipline Course Passes ( includes over 30 ziplines). wine and liquor, one- year Black Card Membership to Planet Fitness (valued at $300), and family fun games and activities (e.g., Pickleball Set).
Also, donations of auction items are still being taken. Patsarikas shared, “folks who want to donate can email me at trickytray@ehrdogs. org. Then, I can work with them individually as to how they can get their donation to us. [Also,] here is our Amazon wish list link: https:// www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2NE4B1CS1HB0T/ ref=nav_wishlist_lists_2. Their order will be mailed directly to me. “
Patsarikas noted the pictures of the items shown
Kitchell Memorial Presbyterian Church...
FROM FRONT PAGE
ing number of congregants.”
Brose added that she sees the renovation giving the church a larger presence in the community through being able to offer its space for events and offer meals to those in need. She foresees that the renovation will result in even more growth in the congregation.
Reflecting on the renovation and her experience at the church, Brose shared, “Nobody is more deserving of this fresh makeover than Kitchell Memorial Presbyterian Church. They are a beacon of light at the end of Ridgedale Avenue that brought our family in and welcomed us with open arms. I look forward to our future here,” she shared. For Corea, the renovation is something she has been wanting to see for the last 10 years.
“The buildings, as they exist, served us well in the past, but nowadays they appear old and tired; we’d like them to better reflect our current energy and focus. Over the past three or so years, we have experienced a renaissance of sorts at our church: we have an energetic young pastor leading worship, along with new programs and increased community outreach. There is renewed excitement and a sense of purpose among the members old and new alike.” She described the congregation as “small but mighty” but also growing in new faces and the return of some old ones in worship and at community events.
Corea ended by reflecting on the future. “It is my hope that the renovation project is a full transformation in that it
during the auction and shared, “David Warner [of David Warner Photography at www. davidwarnerphotos.com] donates his time and talent and photographs all our auction items. He does a beautiful job! “ Patsarikas notes that she enjoys “watching the bidding wars” during the auction while Dolce enjoys “participating in the bidding wars.” Patsarikas noted that she also enjoys seeing people bid higher than an item’s stated worth because they want to support the res-
brings the buildings into the 21st century, preparing us to not only serve today’s congregant and greater community needs, but also those well into the future. There is much new
housing being built in East Hanover and the surrounding communities; we hope to attract some of our newest area residents to our space and worship community,” she said.
cue and “working with the [auction] team”. She also noted that the auction is “ lots of work”.
Of course, the bottom line is that the auction will be helping the animals rescued by 11th hour rescue. In 2024, the organization found loving homes for 14 small animals, 655 cats and 755 dogs. The latter includes Penny, whose story Dolce shared.
improve the lives of pets and provide hope to families,” said Dr. Gerald Buchoff, owner and veterinarian at Longevity Veterinary Center. “These treatments are game-changers for pets struggling with chronic pain or limited mobility.” Schedule a Consultation Today Pet owners interested in learning more about Stem Cell Therapy or PRP Therapy are encouraged to contact Longevity Veterinary Center at 973606-1101 or visit our website at www.lvcnj.com.
“We discovered after she came to us that she had a heart condition called Pulmonary Valve Stenosis that caused her to pass out with even minimal activity. She required extremely costly surgery, so we turned to social media to get the word out and Penny found a life-saving benefactor. She has since been adopted and is living her best life,” Dolce shared.
Dolce noted there are some long-term residents of the rescue waiting years for a home, like Mack. “Mack has been with us six years-a volunteer favorite. The kennel has about
Mack and a friend, two long-time residents at Eleventh Hour waiting to find forever homes.
Penny, a dog Eleventh Hour rescued and cared for and who found a forever home.
Rosemarie D’Alessandro: Author and Advocate for Children
BY EVAN WECHMAN
AREA - Rosemarie D’Alessandro does not believe in quitting. She didn’t believe in it as a child and still doesn’t believe in it today.
D’Alessandro has lived in New Jersy her entire adult life. She has stayed in the small town of Hillsdale, New Jersey through several decades of intense difficulty. As a mother, she has endured more pain and heartache than most people would be able to handle. But she is not like most people.
D’Alessandro, who is now in her senior years, gives thanks to her faith and her inner fortitude for her ability to thrive even in the darkest situations.
“I’ve always been a fighter even when I was little,” she said. “All my experiences
have made me stronger.”
D’Alessandro has survived the worst thing that can happen to a mother. Her wonderful daughter Joan, whom she affectionately refers to as Joanie, was murdered when she was seven years old back in April of 1973.
Joanie was a girl scout and a loving, trustful child. On April 19, 1973, which was Holy Thursday, she said good-bye to her mother as she went to deliver some boxes of girl scout cookies to her neighbor, three houses down from where she lived. Everything should have gone well, especially since the gentleman she was dropping the cookies off to was a Tappan Zee High School chemistry teacher named Joseph McGowan who worked about ten
miles away in Rockland County, New York.
McGowan was entrusted with mentoring and assisting young students almost every weekday. But Joanie was betrayed. She was sexually molested and murdered on that Holy Thursday. Her body was found three days later on Easter Sunday buried in a space between rocks in Harriman State Park, in nearby New York State.
This would have been too much for almost any mother to handle. But D’Alessandro, over 50 years later, has remained steadfast in making sure such atrocities don’t occur to other parents.
In her powerful book, The Message of Light Amid Letters of Darkness, which was pub-
lished last year, D’Alessandro honestly recounts what transpired during the nearly five decades of pursuing justice for her daughter.
In this stunning account, D’Alessandro briefly details what occurred 20 years after the loss of her daughter. At that time, she fought back against the legal system, which was allowing the killer, McGowan to come before the parole board seeking reentry into the community.
D’Alessandro wanted to protect other children who may face McGowan upon release. She tirelessly collected over one hundred thousand signatures opposing his parole. Such efforts led to keeping her daughter’s killer behind bars and enacting laws in her home state and on the federal level allowing more rights for victims of such crimes.
One of her proudest moments was in April of 1997 when Joan’s Law was signed by Governor Whitman. This said that anyone in New Jersey who murdered a child under 14 years of age in conjunction with committing a sexual crime will never be granted parole, nor see the light of day. A federal version was signed by President Clinton in1998.
She also rallied her supporters once again in 2000 to help pass a law in New Jersey eliminating the statute of limitations for wrongful death actions brought in murder, manslaughter, and aggravated manslaughter cases allowing victims to sue their perpetrators if they come into money after the crime. A New York version of the bill was signed by Governor Pataki in 2004 in Harriman State Park, the site where Joanie’s body was found.
Though these laws are noted in the book, the real pain and misery are detailed in the letters that D’Alessandro provides between McGowan and a pen pal he corresponded with for many years while in prison. She was given these letters by a family member of the woman who corresponded with McGowan, who eventually died in jail in 2021.
The book is unflinching as D’Alessandro not only reveals the horrifying letters but details her own emotional responses to reading the words of her daughter’s killer. Though she received these letters shortly before his death, she couldn’t bring herself to read them until after he died.
D’Alessandro explains that
the letters were painful because it showed how little significance he gave towards the death of Joanie.
“When he died, I read the letters even though it was hard. I said these letters must get out there. When I read the first letter, it was so despicable. It was so hard to see what the attitude was going to be of these letters, and so I got sick”, she said. According to her, he wrote about her daughter’s death in the same vein someone would write about the weather. He had absolutely no remorse for his actions.
Several months after the book was published, filmmaker Vanessa Martino transformed the book into a harrowing documentary, Daughter of Mine, which has since won numerous awards. It won “Best Documentary in the New York Shorts International Film Festival”, and more recently won the “Audience Award for Best Short in the Teaneck International Film Festival of 2024.” At most of these film festivals, D’Alessandro usually delivers a brief but strong speech which accompanies the film. Though many people may conPLEASE SEE ROSEMARIE D’ALESSANDRO, PAGE 6
Rosemarie at Harriman State Park, the site of where her daughter was buried. Courtesy of Rosemarie D’Alessandro. Rosemarie’s daughter as a child. Courtesy of Rosemarie D’Alessandro.
Rosemarie D’Alessandro...
FROM PAGE 5
of victory.”
For D’Alessandro, it’s about helping victims of abuse and their families. In the last several years, she has organized a non-profit organization, called The Joan Angela D’Alessandro Memorial Foundation. Through this entity, D’Alessandro can not only push for more stringent laws for abusers, but even works with schools throughout the area to inform teachers of possible signs of abuse in their students.
More recently, D’Alessandro has been volunteering her time with parents who have gone through the tragedy of learning their child was subjected to abuse. She spends much of her free time counseling and mentoring parents who have lost their children due to such senseless violence. She
connects with these mothers and fathers either in-person or virtually throughout the nation.
Though such work can be difficult, she credits all of it to her late daughter Joanie, who continues to inspire her.
“I have a relationship with her every day,” she said. “Her spirit is living and helping other people.”
Of course, D’Alessandro acknowledges she wishes she had a more typical relationship with Joanie where she could visit her every day and see her grow up, but there is still a strong bond.
“She (Joanie) inspired me. She wasn’t concerned about impressions and what people were going to think of her. But she had a presence and that was beautiful. She would come into a room, and you would notice her. She would be all smiles and as happy as can be.”
D’Alessandro said her daughter’s spirit of love and willingness to stand up for oth-
Eleven Hour Rescue...
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30 longer- term resident dogs who have a team of dedicated volunteers who do everything they can to shower them with love and make sure they get daily attention. We recently added two rooms in the kennel that are just like the room in a house to let them decompress and get ready to live in a real home,” she said.
Some animals come to the rescue from dire situations.
One such situation Dolce says still haunts many of the rescuers at Eleventh Hour. It was the discovery of 90 living and dead dogs packed into a truck and left at a New Jersey shopping mall. The neglect
and cruelty were some of the worst the rescue has ever seen. Eleventh Hour rescue and others in New Jersey mobilized and Eleventh Hour took as many is it could and fed, cleaned, veted, and socialized them before finding them forever homes. “We still get updates on the Hampton animals and we’re happy to report that they are thriving and loved,” Dolce said.
Eleventh Hour Rescue is made up of 275 active volunteers. Dolce noted that, “ 2024 was our 20th anniversary.
Reflecting on their work at the rescue and why they do it, Patsarikas, who has been a volunteer for eight and a half
er people during her short life helps her work for others even today. She often thinks back on the significance of her daughter’s actions and how it touched others. For instance, she was reminded many years ago when she heard from one of her daughter’s childhood friends about how special a person her daughter genuinely was.
The friend told D’Allesandro about how when she was a child and excluded by other children during recess, Joanie stood up to her friends and included her in all their activities.
“I didn’t know it happened at the time but she(the friend) called me 20 years ago and said Joanie would watch the children play and invite me to play with everyone too, and it didn’t matter what her friends thought because she made sure the girl played with them and her friends would say why are you doing that, and she would say oh no, she can come play
year and got her five cats from Eleventh Hour said, “I do it to save the animals’ lives.” She noted that it is heart-breaking to see the cruelty that some humans have done to animals. Dolce has been a volunteer for three years and has an Eleventh Hour dog and is a longtime foster of one. She noted that the rescue has very little overhead, and “donations go where people want them to go”
Patsarikas noted two other upcoming fundraisers that the rescue is holding: Murder Mystery at Vasa Park on March 29th and Barkfest at Horseshoe Lake on June 7th.
with us. She was a leader,” D’Alessandro said. “She was the kind of person who would change the world without being fake,” she added.
According to D’Alessandro it would have been easy to give up after the tragedy she endured. She could have just stayed in bed all day, and not fought for herself and others. But her attitude, her faith’s belief in serving others, and her wonderful daughter’s spirit have allowed her to help others.
Not only is she helping to change laws that give victims and their families more rights, but she is helping pass on this courage to other mother’s go-
ing through the grief process. “A lot of people don’t come to me. They are afraid. They feel uncomfortable and I think you’re not going to have change if you do that. You have to go through the uncomfortable and that is why even this whole story is a victory because here is a story of a person going through all the uncomfortable things and going through all the terrible parts and taking all the risks and that is how you change things, D’Alessandro said.
She understands the pain these grieving mothers are going through and how hard it is to stand up for themselves. But that is exactly why she is
coaching them forward.
“You’ve got to deal with the uncomfortable and that is how you are going to stand up for what is right. You’re going to stand up for yourself and you’re going to stand up for others and you are going to deal with grief because grief is something you have to deal with. But you have to get out of the uncomfortable and if people need help getting out of the uncomfortable, I can coach them.”
Donations to the Joan Angela D’Alessandro Memorial Foundation can be made directly at https://gofund. me/78d81653.
BY RICHARD MABEY, JR.
AREA - This is a condensed chapter of the book that I am presently writing, about my journey to earn scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout. This is a true story, however I changed people’s names.
In June of 1969, at the age of 15, I had just completed my sophomore year at Boonton High School. I began taking classes for the Swimming Merit Badge. I had had Rheumatic Fever when I was 12, and up till that time my Cardiologist, Dr. Martin Rosenthal, felt strongly that my heart was not yet strong enough for the strenuous challenge of the Swimming Merit Badge classes.
The classes were held at a docking station of the Rockaway River in Boonton Township. The beach area was owned by a Scout Commissioner, who
On Eagle’s Wings: The Swimming Lessons
loaned out the use of his large dock for the scouts to have an aquatic center. It was known as the Boonton District Aquatic Merit Badge Center. I was not as strong and coordinated as the other boys were. My Swimming Merit Badge Counselor, Mr. Taylor, was quite a tough man. He was stern and strict. He had a continuous facial expression that seemed to convey that he was always upset about something. We met three evenings, every week, in the pursuit of earning the Swimming Merit Badge. In mid July, the first class of that summer’s Swimming Merit Badge classes had completed. There were about 25 scouts in the class. I was the only scout who failed the course. But, there was good news, another class was going to begin
the next week.
My biggest challenge was swimming upstream. You see, we would be required to swim quite a distance downstream, then turn around, and swim upstream to return to the large riverside dock. It was during the swim upstream that I fell woefully behind the other scouts. Sadly, Mr. Taylor once again failed me for the Swimming Merit Badge classes.
A fury burnt in my heart. Fire filled the marrow of bones. I was more determined than ever to earn the Swimming Merit Badge. I was not going to let Mr. Taylor defeat me. That night, after being told that I failed the Swimming Merit Badge classes for the second time, I prayed and prayed and prayed for God to help me earn this most coveted merit
badge. The long and short of it was that the Swimming Merit Badge was one of the required merit badges to earn the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. So, in mid August, I began taking the Swimming Merit Badge classes for a third time. It was during these classes that Mr. Taylor’s anger toward me took on an even greater height. It was in early September, when I turned 16 and began my junior year at Boonton High School, that my third attempt
at passing the Swimming Merit Badge classes concluded. Once again Mr. Taylor failed me. But it wasn’t enough that Mr. Taylor failed me for the third time. With anger in his voice, he told me that I was wasting his time, taking the Swimming Merit Badge classes. Mr. Taylor’s last words to me, as I walked away from the big riverside dock to the driveway, where my mom was waiting for me in her car, were these words. “Mabey, you’ll
never make it to Eagle Scout!” As the tears flowed down my cheeks, I got into Mom’s car. Mom asked me what happened. I simply replied to my dear mother, “I failed again.” To be continued. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has had two books published. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ gmail.com.
History of the Traffic Light
AREA - The traffic light, an indispensable tool for regulating road traffic, has a history rooted in the 19th century. The concept was first introduced by J.P. Knight, a British railway engineer, who adapted railway signaling principles to roadways.
In 1868, he installed the first known traffic signal outside the British Houses of Parliament in London. Knight’s system used semaphore arms during the day and red and green gas-lit lamps at night to indicate “stop” and “go.” However, this early traffic light design was short-lived. In 1869, the gas light exploded, injuring a police officer, which led to its abandonment.
The next major development in traffic lights came decades later in the United States, as the growing number of motor vehicles created new challenges for urban traffic management.
In 1914, Cleveland, Ohio, introduced the first electric traffic signal, designed by James
Hoge. This device, installed at the corner of Euclid Avenue and East 105th Street, was a significant improvement over the earlier gas-powered system. It used red and green lights, controlled by a switch inside a nearby control booth. This traffic signal also had an audible buzzer to notify drivers when the lights were about to change, which marked a crucial step toward modern traffic control.
While Hoge’s system laid the groundwork, it was Garrett Morgan, an African-American inventor, who revolutionized traffic signals in 1923. Morgan, concerned about the increasing number of accidents on the roadways, patented a three-position traffic light that included a “caution” signal, which became the modern yellow light.
His invention was significant because it introduced a warning phase between “stop” and “go,” reducing the number of collisions caused by sudden light
changes. Morgan’s version also allowed for a safer and more orderly flow of traffic by giving drivers time to prepare for the change in lights.
Although Morgan is often credited with pioneering the three-light system, several inventors and innovators have contributed to the development of traffic lights as we know them today. For example, the introduction of automated signals and synchronized systems in the mid-20th century transformed traffic management globally.
The traffic light has evolved from a simple semaphore system to a highly sophisticated network of automated signals that manage millions of vehicles worldwide. Today, traffic lights are more than just tools for directing traffic; they incorporate technology like sensors and timers to efficiently manage traffic flow, ensuring safety and order on the roads.
Ecommerce in 2025: 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Online Selling
AREA - Thanks to the explosion of ecommerce over the past couple decades, consumers can find virtually any product or service they can think of online. In fact, the consumer ecommerce market is expected to approach $6 trillion by 2027, according to the International Trade Administration, up from roughly $4 trillion in 2024.
A diverse collection of product segments is driving this growth, including everything from fashion and furniture to food and beverage. While major marketplace retailers still lead the category, ecommerce has become commonplace among small businesses, too. In fact, by the end of 2023, an estimated 80% of small businesses had at least basic ecommerce capabilities, according to a report by Digital Commerce 360.
However, small businesses are grappling with challenges such as inflation, supply chain issues and keeping pace with major retailers, among others, that are driving a variety of ecommerce trends in 2025 and beyond, including:
Video Content
Spurred by social media, video content is in high demand on ecommerce sites, too.
Videos that explain how to use products, offer tips for using them and demonstrate projects that were completed using a product all earn favor with shoppers. In addition, videos that highlight product features, video reviews on social media and “live shopping events” on the social channels of ecommerce retailers can provide a more appealing interactive ex-
perience for shoppers.
Inclusive of the “live shopping events” trends, livestreaming is often popular among consumers as it can create a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out), leading to enhanced brand loyalty and engagement. Short-form videos sweeping social media also drive engagements and offer a quick, appealing way to demonstrate new or popular products.
Personalized Products
Ecommerce provides opportunities for shoppers who appreciate buying products that are uniquely their own.
Online buying platforms that allow for customization of products such as shoes, clothing and drinkware can create buyer engagement and earn loyal shoppers who know they can purchase the items they want exactly to their own specifications. In fact, a survey by McKinsey Insights found 80% of loyal customers prefer shopping with brands that offer tailored choices and personalized experiences. From color selection and accessories to performance variations, custom options can help create a highly personalized shopping experience that allow buyers to interact more directly than they would for a standardized transaction.
Beyond the initial purchase, customized reports and shipping notifications are also becoming the norm. Shippers can alert customers to their products’ delivery status – including any delays or changes – via email, text, video message or, in some cases, a customizable dashboard where consumers
can view incoming shipments tied to their account or address, request a different delivery time or location, pre-sign for packages and more.
Micro Purchasing Moments
You may think phenomena like impulse buys or convenience purchases are reserved for brick-and-mortar stores, but micro-purchasing trends suggest otherwise. These purchases are typically made by someone looking for a quick solution or information in a hurry from a mobile device, such as comparing two or more similar products and clicking a “buy now” link, ordering and paying for food ahead of time to skip the line, making a hotel or excursion reservation while traveling or looking up movie showtimes and purchasing tickets from the same page. Ecommerce sites that can establish themselves as a resource, make information easy to digest and simplify the purchasing process are earning customers (and revenue).
Flexible Payment Options
Online purchases were once limited almost exclusively to credit card purchases, but over time, businesses have granted greater flexibility to shoppers when it comes to collecting payment. While this trend has been growing for several years, many contemporary ecommerce sites now accept credit or debit cards, online checks, digital wallet and mobile payment services, cryptocurrency and even installment payments via third-party providers. By 2029, the third-party payment market is expected to almost double from $62.5 billion in 2024, according to findings
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock from Mordor Intelligence. Simplified Shipping Options
Evolving technology isn’t just improving the browsing and purchasing side of ecommerce; shipping operations are also seeing enhancements. For example, ShipAccel, a digital platform designed by Pitney Bowes, simplifies and enhances shipping operations with advanced ecommerce technology. The platform empowers early ecommerce brands to ship like larger companies with access to discounted carrier rates; more than 80 integrations including leading marketplaces, data and insights to help make smarter shipping decisions; branded tracking; and return capabilities. It features a collection of apps, widgets and application programming interfaces to easily configure new workflows and seamlessly meet the demands of business growth.
“As ecommerce becomes a mainstay, shippers must take a
technology-first approach, utilizing platforms that can grow along with the business and partnering with providers who offer deep expertise in the segment,” said Shemin Nurmohamed, president of Sending Technology Solutions at Pitney Bowes. “As a result of using technology like ShipAccel, ecommerce shippers can save money, enhance operational efficiencies and delight customers – all of which support the business’ bottom line.”
Find more shipping support for your ecommerce business in the coming year at shipaccel.com
Easy ECommerce Shipping
Tips
Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, getting smart about shipping can help improve your ecommerce experience.
Be cost-conscious. Buyers obviously benefit from lower costs, but as a seller, managing shipping costs means more revenue. Volume discounts
and options for lower prices with longer shipping times can make a bigger impact than you might expect. A shipping partner that has pre-negotiated discounted rates with carriers can deliver significant savings to your business, too.
Reduce package sizes. Using boxes or padded envelopes that closely fit the product being shipped can reduce weight and therefore the cost to send it to the customer. Also avoid excess packaging that adds bulk, which adds cost and waste.
Utilize advanced tracking tools. Keep tracking information for everything you ship or buy so you can monitor its safe delivery or, if problems arise, promptly identify and correct the issue. An option like ShipAccel uniquely provides branded tracking updates so your business stays front and center with your customer from click to porch.
(Family Features)
BY DANA JACKSON
Q: Who is the actor starring as Superman in the new film coming out this summer? I’ve never seen him before. -- K.P.
A:Director James Gunn chose David Corenswet to don the red cape in his upcoming “Superman” movie because the film focuses on an earlier part of the superhero’s life. Henry Cavill, who most recently played the Man of Steel, is 41 years old, while Corenswet is a decade younger. A brief trailer of the movie was recently released online, which not only featured the titular character but also featured Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) and Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult).
Corenswet’s prior credits include the miniseries
“Lady in the Lake,” the movie “Twisters,” and the Ryan-Murphy-produced series “The Politician.” “Superman,” however, will likely make him a house-
BY DEMI TAVERAS
“Gladiator II” (R) -- The sequel to director Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator” has finally arrived 24 years after the original film was released, but how will it hold up alongside its predecessor? Starring Paul Mescal (“Normal People”), Pedro Pascal (“The Last of Us”) and Denzel Washington (“The Equalizer 3”), the sequel picks up 16 years after the death of Marcus Aurelius, and Rome is thick with corruption due to its psychotic twin emperors Geta and Caracalla. But Lucius (Mescal), the longlost imperial heir, lurks in the shadows under the name “Hanno” and coincidentally becomes a gladiator when his North African kingdom gets conquered by the Roman army. Most reviews were positive, but critics
hold name this summer.
***
Q:Whatever happened to the latest western movie by Kevin Costner? I blinked and missed it in theaters. Is it streaming anywhere? -- Y.S.
A:”Horizon: An American Saga” is a four-chapter film series that “Yellowstone” star Kevin Costner wrote, directed, and acts in. “Chapter 1” reportedly had a $100 million budget with a big chunk of it financed by Costner himself. He received a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival after the movie premiered there in May, but one month later when it was released nationwide in theaters, you could hear a pin drop. It was rather surprising given that his western “Dances With Wolves” won the Oscar for Best Picture three decades earlier and that the “Yellow-
Celebrity Extra Couch Theater ENTERTAINMENT
did sound off on its likeness to the first film, whose magic cannot be imitated or repeated. Out now to rent. (Amazon Prime Video)
“A Real Pain” (R) -- This short comedy-drama film seems to be a hidden gem for the upcoming 2025 award season, with it already receiving four nominations for the Golden Globes. Directed, written by and starring Jesse Eisenberg (“Manodrome”), the film follows American-Jewish cousins David (Eisenberg) and Benji (Kieran Culkin) who embark on a trip to Poland to reconnect with their heritage. Throughout the trip, the two cousins’ personalities contrast completely as David assumes the honorable family-man role, while Benji is
stone” TV series, which was set on a ranch out West, was a recent huge hit. Alas, “Yellowstone” audiences didn’t feel like watching Costner in a 3-hour slow-moving flick, no matter how good the writing and performance. “Chapter 2” was supposed to be released in 2024, but because of the box-office failure of its predecessor, it’s been pushed to 2025.
Currently, you can stream “Chapter 1” on Max. “Chapter 3” started its principal photography in May, while “Chapter 4” is in active development. But it might be best to simply release “Horizon” as one big miniseries on streaming. Perhaps then it would receive accolades from the Emmy Awards instead of the Oscars someday.
***
Q: I saw a book at the library
more free-spirited and laid-back with his life. But showing their complex love for each other against the backdrop of emotional moments in Jewish history makes for a very heartwarming watch indeed. Available to rent on Dec. 31. (Apple TV+)
“Anora” (R) -- From Sean Baker, director of “The Florida Project,” this comedy-drama recently won the Palme d’Or at the 77th Cannes Film Festival in May, and it’s also one to watch during the award season race. Mikey Madison (“Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”) has received much praise for her performance as the titular character, a 23-year-old stripper living in Bright Beach, New York. During a night at work, Anora gets introduced to Vanya,
that had Millie Bobby Brown’s name on it, but I forgot the title. Is she an author now, too?
-- D.D.
A:The novel “Nineteen Steps,” which was published in 2023, is based on actress Millie Bobby Brown’s (“Stranger Things”) grandmother’s traumatic experience during the time of World War II. Brown’s name is featured prominently on the cover, which would make the reader presume that she authored the book. However, it turns out it was ghostwritten by Kathleen McGurl.
Brown has been open about her collaboration with the author, and the book would never have been published without Brown’s input about her own family’s history. According to Variety, Brown and Netflix are developing the book into a movie, and yes, Brown is set to star in the role of her grand
the young son of a Russian oligarch, and he hires her to spend a week with him. The pair fly to Las Vegas with his entourage, where the two fall into a passionate love affair that seems everlasting. They marry, and just when Anora thinks she’s about to start her “happily ever after,” Vanya’s parents make moves to get the marriage annulled. Out now to rent. (YouTube)
“Carry-On” (PG-13) -- This action-thriller out now starring Taron Egerton (“Blackbird”) and Jason Bateman (“Ozark”) is sure to keep you on your toes! Egerton plays Ethan, a TSA officer at Los Angeles International Airport who requests to work a shift on the baggage-scanning lane on Christmas Eve. In
the middle of his shift, Ethan finds an earbud that he’s told to put on; through the earbud, a mercenary called the Traveler (Bateman) demands that Ethan let a dangerous carry-on suitcase through the scanning lane. Threatening Ethan’s preg-
nant girlfriend as blackmail, the Traveler gives him direct orders to follow, or else people will begin to die. But did he pick the right TSA agent? (Netflix) (c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.
628 Virginia Drive, Orlando,
David Corenswet (Upcoming in “Superman”)
Mark Eydelshteyn, left, and Mikey Madison star in “Anora.” Photo Credit: Courtesy of MovieStillsDB
Be This Destiny, Guided By God’s Loving Hand
BY RICHARD MABEY, JR.
AREA - In the basement of the old Mabey Homestead, my father had a little three by five card stapled to the wall of his workbench. It simply read, “better to teach a boy the moral way, than to rehabilitate a wayward man.” My father believed in that philosophy, that purpose, with all of his heart, mind and soul. Dad took his role as Scoutmaster very seriously.
In September of 1971, I turned 18, began studying at County College of Morris and working part-time at the A&P Grocery Store in Whippany. My father asked me if I would stay on with Boy Scout Troop 170 and help him with the scouts. At that time, there was only two other Assistant Scoutmasters, Mr. Floyd and Mr. Talbot. Mayor William Dixon was our Troop Committee Chairman. Deep in my heart, I knew my Dad really did need my help. I agreed to stay on with Troop 170. I think that scouts and
church kept me on the straight and narrow. I had all so many of my friends, who were getting lost in drugs and alcohol and the wayward life. The saying, “there but by the grace of God, go I,” is no joke. Now at 71, I deeply realize that I could have easily fallen into the mud and mire of the wayward life. I lost all so many friends, during that era of coming of age. My dad taught me the beauty and splendor, hidden in the forest trail. To appreciate the beauty of the white-tailed deer. To respect the elm, the oak, the maple, the pine. To see the simple beauty that abounded in God’s little creatures. To just see the poetry in a squirrel hopping from one tree branch to another. I don’t think a day goes by that I don’t think of some moment that Dad and I shared in being scout leaders of Boy Scout Troop 170. Reverend Kenneth Baer was Troop 170’s Institutional Representative. Reverend Baer was
the Minister of Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church, which sponsored Boy Scout Troop 170. Reverend Baer was a very positive influence upon my life, when I was in those painful years of leaving boyhood to become a young man. To fulfill the community service requirement of my earning Eagle Scout, I had mowed the lawn, raked leaves, and did odd jobs for Saint Andrew’s Church, for one full calendar year. This included painting all of Thorpe Hall and all of the Sunday School classrooms.
It was during that time period that I got to see Reverend Baer on Saturday mornings. We would talk for only a few minutes, in each of our meetings. But in those few minutes, Reverend Baer would share insights with me, on the sacred teachings of the Holy Bible. A gift that to this very day, I deeply appreciate.
I was a painfully shy young man. I was blessed to have a
wonderful girlfriend, Penny Last, who encouraged me to write for my college newspaper. I studied hard and made the Dean’s List all through my time at County College. I worked hard at the A&P and was honored to be Employee of the Month, a couple of times. I held true to the principles of the Scout Law and the Scout Oath. I did my very best to be a good Assistant Scoutmaster.
I served as an Assistant Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 170 for over 20 years. From time to time, I will receive an email letter from a former scout. Those scouts have no idea what their letters mean to me. Now at 71, in the midst of the fight of my life, in facing the painful and frequent chest pains of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, I quite often read the letters that I have received from former scouts of Troop 170. I cherish each and every one of them. They bring hope and comfort to my heart, that
I did something worthwhile in my life, in being a scout leader. I know that scouting has gotten a bum rap in the past few years. I stand firmly against child abuse. But still, in light of it all, I do think that scouting does offer a boy the chance to gain a love and respect for nature.
Life is not always fair. We cannot always understand why we are put through certain tests in life. To fully understand it all, would be like explaining
Einstein’s Theory of Relativity to an ant. Our human understanding of things in life, is just a drop in the vast ocean of God’s infinite wisdom. Here’s the bottom line though, God loves you more than you will ever know.
Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has had two books published. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ gmail.com.
3 Questions to Ask Before Beginning a New Fitness Regimen
AREA - Exercise is widely recognized as a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. Despite that, a recent analysis of data from the 2020 National Health Interview Survey found that more than two-thirds of individuals are not getting enough exercise. Though the survey was conducted amid the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which suggests the overall figures might be somewhat lower than they might have been had the data been collected in a more typical year, just 28 percent of
respondents were meeting the physical activity guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Routine exercise is beneficial for people of all ages, and seniors are no exception. Aging adults who want to be more physically active but think they are among the 72 percent of individuals who aren’t meeting CDC exercise guidelines can speak with their physicians and ask these three questions to ensure the transition to a less sed-
entary lifestyle goes smoothly.
1. Should I get a heart checkup?
Doctors may already be monitoring aging individuals’ hearts even if they have not exhibited symptoms of heart problems in the past. However, it’s best to discuss heart health in greater detail prior to beginning a new fitness regimen. In an interview with Penn Medicine, Neel Chokshi, MD, MBA, medical director of Penn Sports Cardiology and Fitness Program, noted the risk of heart attack or cardiac complications slightly increases when individuals begin to participate in a moderate or intense activity. So a physician might want to conduct a heart checkup in order to determine if a patient has an underlying heart condition.
2. Which types of activities should I look to?
fore beginning a new exercise regimen. The CDC notes that roughly 84 percent of adults between the ages of 60 and 79 use one or more prescription medications. Each medication produces different effects, and a 2016 study published in the Methodist DeBakey Cardiovascular Journal noted that certain medications evoke an
acute drop in blood pressure, which can disturb balance and increase fall risk, while others actually facilitate greater improvements in health outcomes. That means the dynamic between medications and exercise is unique to each medication, which underscores the importance of speaking with a physician whenever a fitness regimen is started or tweaked and/or a new medication is prescribed. These are just three of the questions seniors can ask when discussing exercise with their physicians. Seniors are urged to ask any additional questions they might have during such discussions.
A physician also can recommend certain activities depending on a person’s age and medical background. Though exercise is beneficial for everyone, certain activities may not be. For example, AdventHealth notes that high-impact activities like jogging and jump rope may not be suited for individuals with arthritis. In addition, aging individuals with physical limitations that require them to use a wheelchair should not write off their ability to exercise, as physicians can recommend exercises for patients with mobility issues as well.
3. Should I take extra caution while on medication?
Prescription medication use is another variable that must be taken into consideration be-
FAQ about Chinese New Year
What is the significance of Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year is also known as the Spring Festival, and that offers some insight into its significance. According to Chinesenewyear.net, while wintry conditions are still present during the Spring Festival, the period when the celebration takes place marks the end of the coldest days. This also is why the Chinese New Year is symbolic of new beginnings.
differs from year to year. The lunar calendar is based on the monthly cycles of the phases of the moon. China officially operates under the Gregorian calendar, but significant celebrations are still conducted in accordance with the lunar calendar.
Do people work during Chinese New Year?
any Airport or Cruise Port Transfer
AREA - Chinese New Year sparks interest every year. Unlike New Year on the Gregorian calendar, which always falls on January 1, Chinese New Year does not begin on the same date each year. It’s important to note that this is only when Chinese New Year begins, which is another thing that distinguishes the celebration from New Year’s celebrations in the west, which tend to be limited to December 31 and January 1. In 2024, Chinese New Year begins on February 10. Between now and then, individuals can look to this FAQ to learn more about this unique and meaningful celebration.
Why is the date different each year?
Topchinatravel.com notes that Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar, which is why the date of the celebration
Chinese New Year is a public holiday in China, and that means people generally get seven days off for celebrating. In 2024, that seven-day period will begin on February 10 and end on February 17. Celebrations also can extend beyond seven days, and some celebrants will avoid working if they are able and choose to do so. The shutdowns lead to significant travel, and Statista reports that around 226 million people traveled in China by air, railway, road, and waterway during Chinese New Year 2023.
What is the significance of animals in relation to Chinese New Year?
Jade Emperor is an important deity in traditional Chinese religion, and the reason behind animals’ connection to Chinese New Year relates to a race organized by Jade Emperor. All animals in the world were invited to partake in the race and help establish the Chinese Zodiac. But only 12 animals showed up on the day of the race, and how they finished would determine the years on the calendar named after them. Each animal in the Chinese Zodiac has its own unique characteristics, and some believe people take on the traits of the animal associated with the year they were born. So those born in 2024 may have the attributes associated with the Dragon, which is believed to bring good fortune.
Chinese New Year is a unique cultural tradition with a lengthy and interesting history.
Yours truly, during the beard stage, with some of the former scouts of the great Boy Scout Troop 170.
Tracey Franco Realtor
tracey.franco@cbrealty.com (973) 945-6865 mobile
T racey Franco
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