EAST HANOVER FLORHAM PARK
Hanover Little Leaguer Wins Home Run Derby, Helps Hanover Become First Time State Champions
BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER
HANOVER - 12-year-old Anna Hendricks has been on the diamond since kindergarten. Throughout her time on the softball field, she’s made so many friends, learned about healthy competition, and has helped her team earn all sorts of accolades.
Never one to be seen as a home run hitter, Hendricks competed in the New Jersey State Tournament Home Run Derby. Hendricks, a member of the all-star team that made it to the state finals, was asked to enter the home run derby in Clifton.
“I was really excited because I’ve never been in something like a home run derby before. I thought it would be a lot of fun to play with my teammates and play against a few girls from other teams,” Hendricks said. As she prepared to compete in the derby, Hendricks kept telling herself to breathe.
“I really focused on staying
calm, even if I wasn’t doing good for a couple of hits. I just needed to calm down and hit the next pitch,” Hendricks said.
During the final round of the derby, Hendricks was playing for the title against one of her teammates and best friends.
“We were both very excited. She’s one of my best friends and it was just fun to see that we were going against each other. If she won, I would have been very happy for her too,” Hendricks said. At the end of the competition, Hendricks hit a total of 42 home runs.
Hendrick’s dad Sean, who also coaches Anna, was happy to see his daughter win the derby. However, having Anna and the team be the first team from Hanover to ever win the state title was an even bigger moment from the 2024 season.
As the post-season run began, Hanover faced district
teams ParTroy East, ParTroy West, and Morristown. Out of those four teams, Hanover advanced to the sectional round where they faced Clifton and Franklin Lakes. After advancing to the state competition, Hanover went on to face Toms River, Audobon, and Elmora.
In a double elimination tournament, the final games came down to Toms River and Hanover.
“To knock off a huge town like Toms River to win the state was the biggest thrill of all this season,” Sean said. By winning the state competition, Hanover advanced to the regional competition in Connecticut where they faced teams from Maryland, New York, and Pennsylvania. While their success in the regional round was short-lived by losing to Maryland and New York in the double elimination tournament, Hendricks wouldn’t change a thing about her experiences.
“It was an amazing experience and I had a lot of fun with my friends. We would get to go to practices, go to the pool, stay in the dorms, and watch other teams compete. We all really got to bond,” Hendricks
Ballet Summer Intensive in Florham Park Offers Dancers Chance to Connect with Ballet Greats
BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER
FLORHAM PARK - Ballet
students from around the area descended on NJ Ballet in Florham Park this summer for the brand new NJ Ballet Summer Intensive programs.
A summer intensive in the dance world is exactly as it sounds: intense. The days are filled with training, classes, and learning about all things ballet. At the NJ Ballet summer intensive, it was nothing short of just that.
“Our students learn many practical and tangible things like technique, structure, how to use music, etiquette, discipline, staging, etc. They take daily ballet classes with barre and center work, pointe classes, partnering classes, and variation & repertoire classes in which they will learn solos and group numbers from existing works of art. They also have the opportunity to work with excellent Jazz, Contemporary, Musical Theater, and Pilates teachers. Offering a well-rounded dance program is essential for all young ballet dancers. Alongside all this, the students had the opportunity
to learn by example from the very best in the business,” Maria Kowroski, Artistic Director of NJ Ballet, said. The intensives at NJ Ballet were held over seven weeks during the summer. Students had the option to live on campus at Fairleigh Dickinson University in the dorms, participate in ballet classes with world-renowned dancers, learn about conditioning, and more.
During the program, students were also exposed to some of ballet’s best and brightest. Stars like Christopher Wheeldon and Misty Copeland participated in Q&A’s with dancers to answer all their burning questions about what it takes to become a professional in the industry.
Kowroski selected the lineup of dancers not for their star status, but for who they are as people.
“The fact that they are ballet stars is ultimately of little importance; they became stars because they are all genuinely the very best at what they do. This was one of the important lessons we hoped the students
Winner from August’s “Find Hank the Hornet Mascot” Contest
are Helene Giasullo; Florham Park, Jennifer Toto; East Hanover, Michele Kiska; East Hanover, and Samuel Huang, Florham Park. The ads that “Hank the Hornet” were in: UPS Store, Hanover Ywp. PBA, Shed World, 200 Club, Minuteman Limo and Tracey Franco Coldwell Banker. Thanks to everyone who enter and congratulations to our winners!
would learn. Their standing in the world of dance initially served to pique everyone’s interest in the program, but their teaching and example were the real stars of the show. Each of the faculty members was carefully selected because of their excellence as educators and also because of the incredible example they have set over the years. To be in a room with them was and is an invaluable experience for any young aspiring dancer,” Kowroski said.
For Kowroski, she hopes that the program was successful in it’s first season.
“We are a brand-new Intensive. This means we have an energy along with a nascent sense of hope and possibility that hasn’t become jaded over time. We have had to put our best foot forward because our Summer Intensives have no real name or reputation yet. This provides us with a level of care that helps serve the
purpose of the intensives. This is also another reason why we chose to bring in a world-class faculty lineup. Our intention was to train, not to showcase,” Kowroski said. “Without knowing all other intensives, I would say that we had arguably one of the finest faculty lineups in the ballet world. We also had a very strong program for male dancers with excellent male coaches. Pas De Deux (partnering) was offered three times each week, and we had classes in Stage Craft and Body Conditioning that we hadn’t seen elsewhere.”
The NJ Ballet will kick off its performance season when it presents Creative Forces on Friday, November 8 featuring Justin Peck’s Murder Ballades, Jerome Robbins’ In the Night and more. Tickets and more information on the 2024-2025 season can be found at www. njballet.org.
said. Hendricks intends to play the sport in high school and would ultimately love to attend college on a softball scholarship. To her, softball is everything.
“I love playing with my teammates and making new friends. I also love playing in tournaments and all the competition involved with softball.”
Remembering 9/11, 23 Years Later
AREA - The events of September 11, 2001, marked a turning point in history that left an indelible impact on the world.
As we commemorate the 22nd anniversary of 9/11, we reflect on the tragedy, the lives lost, the resilience shown, and the lessons learned. The attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon continue to evoke a mix of emotions and memories that have shaped our collective consciousness.
The Day That Changed Everything:
On that fateful Tuesday morning, the world watched in horror as commercial airplanes hijacked by terrorists crashed into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. The sheer scale of the devastation and loss of life was beyond comprehension. Almost 3,000 innocent lives were lost, and the impact was felt not just in America, but across the globe.
Unity and Resilience:
In the face of adversity, the response was a remarkable display of unity and resilience.
First responders, firefighters, police officers, and ordinary citizens rushed to the aid of those in need, embodying the spirit of heroism and compassion. Communities came together, demonstrating the strength of human solidarity.
The 9/11 attacks did not break the American spirit; instead,
they strengthened the nation’s resolve to stand united against terrorism.
Global Consequences: The aftermath of 9/11 had far-reaching consequences that reshaped international politics, security measures, and policies. The United States launched the War on Terror, leading to military interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Airport security protocols were heightened, and surveillance efforts intensified to prevent future attacks. The world became acutely aware of the need to address the root causes of terrorism and promote global stability.
Lessons Learned:
Two decades later, the lessons from 9/11 remain relevant. The importance of vigilance in the face of evolving security threats, the significance of international cooperation, and the need to address socio-political issues that can breed extremism are paramount. As we remember the lives lost, we also remember the importance of nurturing tolerance, understanding, and dialogue to prevent the rise of hatred and division.
Honoring the Victims: Each year on September 11, ceremonies are held to honor the victims and heroes of the attacks. Names are read aloud, and moments of silence are observed to pay tribute to those
The 2024 Hanover Little League won its district championship and went on to compete at the state level where they won for the first time in program history
Students rehearse in classes with some of the best ballet teachers in the business at NJ Ballet’s summer intensive (Photo Credit: NJ Ballet)
Saint Clare’s Health Announces Dr. Adam Berman Awarded Newsweek America’s
AREA - Saint Clare’s Health, a member of Prime Healthcare, proudly announces Dr. Adam Berman, was recently awarded by Newsweek and Statista one of America’s Best Prostate Cancer Oncologists List 2024. This is an exclusive list comprised of 150 doctors nationwide. Dr. Adam Berman, President of the Medical Staff at Saint Clare’s Health, is a highly respected physician known for his advanced approach for treating all urologic conditions. His practice has a specialized
focus on treating advanced prostate cancer. Using advanced technology, including Robotic Surgery, as well as incorporating Advanced Oncologic Therapy for the most challenging prostate cancers, Dr. Berman has achieved exceedingly high rates of successful outcomes.
Dr. Berman treats numerous cancers, including prostate, kidney, bladder and testicular. Additionally, he treats BPH, kidney stones, incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and urinary tract infections.
Best Prostate Cancer Oncologists 2024 List
“We are appreciative to have Dr. Berman lead our medical staff, as well as provide exceptional care to our patients. His best-in-class skills, as well as his devotion to providing individualized compassionate care to each of our patients is second to none. Dr. Berman exemplifies Saint Clare’s Health commitment to provide every patient with the highest quality of care available, anywhere,” stated Brian L. Ulery, Chief Executive Officer, Saint Clare’s Health.
According to Dr. Berman,
RWJBarnabas Health - The Institute for Nursing Excellence Hosts Mobile Experience Safety Summit
AREA - RWJBarnabas Health
- The Institute for Nursing Excellence hosted a systemwide “Mobile Experience Safety Summit” at its Livingston, NJ, location with Stryker, partners and a global leader in medical technologies. There were 6 cohorts throughout the day with a total of 90 RWJBarnabas Health team members in attendance, including Nancy Holecek, MAS, MHA, BSN, RN, FNAP, Executive Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, and Mary Beth Russell, PhD, RN, NPD-BC, NEABC, FNAP, CPHQ, Senior Vice President, The Center for Professional Development, Innovation, Research & The Institute for Nursing Excellence. Those that attended were immersed in the many developments of safety measures utilized during surgery and experienced hands-on just some of the latest surgical technologies that focus on caregiver and patient safety and quality outcomes as well as safe environments for our OR/surgical teams.
“We are fortunate to be able to offer innovative educational events like this one thanks to the substantial support from our corporate executive team, and our collaboration with the Center for Professional Development, Innovation, and Research (CPDIR) departments across the system,” said Mary Beth Russell.
Stryker’s Perioperative Mobile Lab Experience, a full-length semi-trailer truck transformed into a teaching theater with room for 30 people, allowed their expert team to provide live demonstrations at each of its 8 fully-equipped lab stations enabling everyone close access and a hands-on experience with the latest surgical technology. Some of the showcased technologies included SURGCOUNT+ Barcode for eliminating retained surgical sponges, Neptune waste management for reducing fluid waste exposure and surgical plume, SAFEAIR smoke pencils for compliance with safety laws, Neptune S Mini for minimizing fluid exposure and
Remembering 9/11...
FROM FRONT PAGE
who perished. Memorials like the 9/11 Memorial and Museum at Ground Zero stand as somber reminders of the tragedy, urging us to never forget and to continue striving for a more peaceful world.
Twenty-two years after the 9/11 attacks, the world continues to remember the profound impact they had on our lives. As we pay homage to the lives lost and the sacrifices made, let us renew our commitment to building a world that rejects
waste in GI/Endo units, and the Stryker 1788 Video Tower with advanced smoke-free and imaging capabilities.
In addition to the mobile experience and technology education, The Institute also provided a “Communication in the OR: A Culture of Safety” program for CE credit to team members who attended presented by Mary Koch Mary Koch, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, CNOR, Administrative Director, Perioperative Education, Center for Professional Development & Research (CPDIR).
The Institute will hold this event again in 2025 with a bonus “Escape Room” theme, at their Fort Monmouth location, Squier Hall, 283 Sherrill Ave., Oceanport, NJ.
The Institute for Nursing Excellence and Nursing Leadership would like to acknowledge its valued partnership with our Supply Chain Contracting and Sourcing team.
Let’s shape the future of nursing together. Learn more at rwjbh.org/thenursinginstitute
“I am honored and grateful to receive this prestigious award. To be recognized among the nation’s many exceptional oncologists is indeed humbling, and I will continue to be committed to providing exceptional care to each of my patients who put their trust in me.” America’s Best Prostate Cancer Oncologists 2024 were determined based on four data sources:
1. Physician Performance
Data: Based on Medicare data from Care Journey in 2022, an evaluation of the physician’s performed procedures was conducted.
2. Recommendations from Peers: During the survey period from March to April 2024, thousands of medical experts (physicians with knowledge in the field of prostate cancer, managers/administrators, and
other medical professionals in the field of prostate cancer) were invited to an online survey via Newsweek.com.
3. Quality Assessment: For recommendations in their own state, participants were asked to assess the quality of care (e.g., treatments, follow-up care, use of most recent equipment) for each prostate cancer oncologist.
4. Certifications: Board certifications by the American Board of Urology, Radiology, and Internal Medicine were taken into consideration for all eligible prostate cancer oncologists.
About Saint Clare’s Health
Berman
Saint Clare’s Health, a member of Prime Healthcare, is an award-winning provider of compassionate care delivered with the latest technology, serving the communities of Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties. Its network of hospitals and healthcare facilities, include Denville Hospital, Dover Hospital, Behavioral Health Centers in Boonton, Denville, and Parsippany, and an Imaging Center in Parsippany, among other satellite locations.
hatred and violence. Through remembrance, unity, and resilience, we honor the memory of those who were taken from us and work towards a future where such senseless acts of terror have no place.
Dr. Adam
New Jersey’s Olympians are Bringing Home the Hardware
BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER
AREA - As the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games have come to a close, New Jersey athletes earned a number of medals. Here’s how New Jersey members of Team USA fared in Paris.
USA Gymnastics
Earning the title of the youngest athlete on Team USA for the 2024 Olympic Games, 16-year-old Oradell native Hezly Rivera contributed to the women’s team gymnastics competition during the qualification round. While she did not compete in the team final competition, she still earned a gold medal for her efforts during qualification.
USA Judo
Jack Yonezuka of West Long Branch competed as the youngest member of USA’s Judo team. His family is famous in the Judo world, as he is the son of 1980 Olympian Nick Yonezuka. During the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Yonezuka competed on July 29 against Moldovia’s Adil Osmanov and lost 10-0.
USA Fencing
Foil fencer Jackie Dubrovich of Riverdale may not have placed in the individual foil competition, but alongside her teammates, she is bringing home a gold medal after defeating Italy 45-39. Dubrovich was ousted in the individual competition during the first round after a tough bout with Hungary’s Flora Pasztor.
Sabre fencer Mitchell Saron of Ridgewood went head to head during the first match of his Olympics with Maxime Pianfetti of France, who he beat 15-12. During the second round of individual competition, Saron was ousted by Egypt’s Ziad El Sissy by a score of 15-13. Saron also contributed to a seventh place finish in the team competition.
Livingston native Elizabeth Tartakovsky participated in the Olympic Games as a sabre fencer. Tartakovsky competed individually but lost during the first round against Nada Hafez of Egypt. During the team competition, Tartakovsky helped the US to a fifth place finish.
USA Swimming Morristown’s Jack Alexy earned both a gold and silver medal in the pool. As a member of the 4x100m freestyle team, Alexy swam first and helped set the rest of the team up for success. The team’s final time of 3:09.28 earned them gold. While Alexy did not swim in
the 4x100m medley relay, his swim during qualifying earned him a silver medal.
Morristown’s Nic Fink is bringing home three medals; two silver and one gold. As part of the mixed 4x100m medley relay team, Fink helped secure a new world record on the event with a time of 3:37.43. The mixed relay team took the gold. Fink’s swim in the men’s 4x100m medley and the men’s 100m breaststroke earned him two silver medals.
USA Field Hockey
Randolph’s Amanda Golini was on the pitch with the US Field Hockey team. The U.S. team was an underdog going into the competition and ultimately lost its first game to Argentina. USA turned it around during the second match, tying Spain. In the match against Australia, the U.S. was shut out. For a chance to qualify for the medal rounds, the U.S. needed to beat Great Britain on Aug. 1, but ultimately lost 5-2. The team played its final match against South Africa and won 1-0 to close out their Olympic journey.
USA Men’s Soccer Paxton Aaronson of Medford and John Tolkin of Chatham helped the United States Men’s Soccer team to pool play wins against New Zealand and Guinea. During the quarterfinals against Morocco, the US was shutout 4-0, thus ending their Olympic Games.
USA Sport Climbing Upper Montclair’s Jesse Grupper competed in the semifinal of boulder and lead climbing. During the boulder semifinal, Grupper placed 18th with a final score of 18.9. He also placed 18th in the lead climbing competition with a score of 30.9.
USA Track and Field East Brunswick’s Sam Mattis, who competes in the discus throw, earned his chance to compete after Track and Field Trials in Eugene, OR. During qualifications, Mattis threw for 62.66m, putting him in 7th place and just outside a shot at the finals.
Sydney McLoughlin-Levrone, a three time Olympian, returned to the Games to defend her title in the 400m hurdles. During the finals, McLaughlin-Levrone posted a new world record for the event with a time of 50.37. She won the gold medal for her performance.
Mount Olive’s Keturah Orji also returned for her third
Olympic Games. Participating in the triple jump, Orji qualified for the finals, but ultimately placed ninth in the competition.
Curtis Thompson of Florence competed in the qualification round of the javelin throw competition. He placed 13th overall and did not advance to the finals.
USA Triathlon
Morgan Pearson of New Vernon competed in both the individual triathlon and as part of the mixed relay triathlon. During his individual competition, Pearson placed 31st overall with a time of 1:48:26.
As part of the mixed relay competition, Pearson took home a silver medal in a photo finish with Team Germany who ended up with the gold.
USA Rowing
Molly Reckford of Short Hills competed with Team USA as a member of the Women’s lightweight double sculls team. During the team’s first qualifying heat, they placed second behind Romania and in the semifinal round placed third behind Great Britain and New Zealand. In the finals, the team landed in sixth place.
USA Men’s Golf
Scottie Scheffler of Ridgewood found his way to the top of the podium in the individual men’s golf competition. In round 1 of the competition, Scheffler placed sixth, in round 2 of the competition, Scheffler placed 10th, in round 3 of the competition, Scheffler placed sixth again and during round four placed first, earning him gold.
USA Table Tennis
Sewell’s Amy Wang contributed in the women’s table tennis team competition against Germany, where the US ultimately fell 3-2. In the individual competition, Wang won a shutout match against Vanuatu’s Priscila Tommy and advanced to play Puerto Rico’s Adriana Diaz where she lost 4-2.
USA Basketball
Bam Adebayo of Newark returned for his second Olympic Games. The USA men’s basketball team returns as the defending gold medalists. With pool play wins against Serbia, South Sudan, and Puerto Rico, the US was matched up against Brazil in the quarterfinals. After beating Brazil 122-87, the US once again faced Serbia in a tight game that they won by coming back from a 17 point deficit.
During the gold medal game, the US took on France and won gold after posting a 98-87 final score.
USA Women’s Soccer
Casey Murphy, goalie on the women’s soccer team, helped the team earn pool play wins against Zambia, Australia, and Germany. During the quarterfinals, the US shut out Japan with a score of 1-0.
Facing Germany again in the semifinals, the US also shut them out with a score of 1-0.
With a gold medal on the line, the US met with Brazil in the finals. The US won gold with a shutout against Brazil, 1-0.
For more content on the Olympics, visit www.olympics.com
These Olympians from New Jersey are bringing home medals of all kinds (Photos courtesy of USA Judo, USA Gymnastics, USA Swimming/Mike Lewis, US Fencing/Serge Timacheff, US Soccer/Getty Images, US Field Hockey, USA Basketball, US Golf/J. Lindeberg, USA Track and Field, USA Table Tennis, USA Sport Climbing, US Triathlon, and US Rowing)
BY ELSIE WALKER STAFF WRITER
AREA - Oktoberfest is a German festival which started as the celebration of a prince’s marriage in the 1800s. Online Brittanica explains that over time, Oktoberfest morphed into a folk festival famously celebrated in Munich, Germany, but it is also held in areas of the United States with the celebratory spirit of food, fun, and music. Germania Park of New Jersey, Inc., a social club dedicated to sharing German traditions and culture will be holding Oktoberfest, open to the public, on Saturday, September 21st from 12:00 pm - 11:00 pm and on Sunday, September 22nd from 1:00pm – 7:00pm. Located at 56 Conger Street in Rockaway Township, admission to the event will be $5 at the door. The event will be held rain or shine (as Germania Park has a large
Oktoberfest in Rockaway
outdoor pavilion). Recently, Susan Herleth of Allamuchy, Germania Park’s entertainment chairperson, talked about the festival.
Some might wonder why they are holding Oktoberfest in September. Herleth explained that they started holding the festival in the ‘70s; September was picked for it because, at that time, German bands were coming over for the Steuben Day parade in New York in September and would be available to come to Germania Park. Even though things changed, the date tradition continues. Actually, Germania Park holds an Oktoberfest in June, too. It is the German spirit to celebrate; it doesn’t matter what the date. Herleth shared that in Germany, “they make a celebration out of the simplest things.” As an ex-
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ample, she noted the Asparagus Festival held to celebrate the harvesting of asparagus.
Germania Park’s September Oktoberfest will include German food, music, vendors, a beer stein contest, and special fun for kids on the Sunday. Past Oktoberfests have had 2,000 in attendance over two days. The kitchen opens at 1pm each day. There will be German beer and the kitchen will be preparing and selling German style food including potato salad, bratwurst, potato pancakes, and various German desserts. There will be live music on both days. On Saturday, from 1pm – 5pm will be Budd and Linda, and from 6pm – 10pm, the Barvarski Boys will be performing. Herleth describes the latter as “an absolutely phenomenal young band”. On Sunday from
2 – 6pm will be David Betz. Offerings will include traditional German music such as polkas. There will be vendors with a couple of them selling German items. Among the vendors will be Eddie’s Almonds, which has been at the festival for years. “He sells the best nuts,” shared Herleth. In addition, there will be an information table representing the German Language School of Morris County for those who might be interested in its offerings. There will also be a beer stein contest for both men and women; and on Sunday, there will be a variety of special offerings for children. What’s a beer stein contest? Herleth explained that in a beer stein contest, participants have
to hold a stein full of beer with a straight out-stretched arm. It takes a strong arm. The one who can do it longest is the winner. There will be a beer stein contest for men and for women.
As for that Sunday, it will be a busy day for children’s activities. Those include a petting zoo, a clown, and face painting in the early afternoon. At 3pm, there will be a children’s ice cream parade. The children in attendance will be asked to get up and join in the parade that will walk around and end up at an ice cream vendor’s truck. There, the children will be treated to free ice cream. For more information on Germania Park, Inc. and its events, visit its website at https://germaniapark.com/
Theater Review
“Job”
- The Hippie and The Tech Bro
BY ROBERT MASSIMI GUEST WRITER
AREA - “Job” at The Hayes Theater originally played at Soho Rep and then moved to The Connolly Theater on the lower east side before moving to “The Great White Way”; scheduling an end July opening. The show has two characters, Lloyd (Peter Friedman) and Jane (Sydney Lemmon), a modest, modern set and a lot of words in this 80 minute play.
“Job” will appeal to various theater goers... Lloyd, is a hippy psychologist; he believes in the old hippie ways, the psychedelic age of escapism, the by-gone days on Height and Ashbury, a city he still lives in. His patient, Jane, works for an elite tech firm in the Bay Area. She went viral on social media when she went ballistic at work one day and is forced to see Lloyd on her companies orders to evaluate whether she is fit to keep her job.
The play has many comedic lines throughout the play. Jane is both obsessive and compulsive, but it is her constant panic that brings out the most humor here. Being born
and raised in the Midwest as an only child “ruined her” she states to her shrink. Writer Max Wolf Friedlich has many corky lines throughout the play and reminiscent at times of a T.V. sitcom, we get a neurotic person who brings ironic comedy to the crowd.
“Job” is not without its problems. The plot can delve a bit. It would have been better if Friedlich had more banter about the hippie 60’s versus the tech 2000’s. Since both groups have many similarities... the anti establishment beliefs, the Bohemian lifestyles and the disdain for conformity. Instead the writer only danes on this subject. It would have also been a stronger play if it did not jump around on so many vast subjects in such a short running time. Where Peter Friedman turns in a admirable performance, Sydney Lemmon seems like a one note actor, she is very monotone throughout the play and at times, she is difficult to hear. Director Michael Herwitz tries to show Lemmon as a true techie nerd with many
different issues about society as well as herself, instead, he has her to subdued and flat. The lighting by Mextly Couzin at times has the actors with a modeled effect on stage and it made it difficult to pick up their faces. The extreme fade-out scenes too are a bit peculiar and often get in the way of the intensity of the play.
“Job”, with the some shortcomings is an overall edgy, exotic play with excellent sound by Cody Spenser. While the ending is unique, it is at the same time predictable. The play has many twists and tuns and keeps the audience engrossed with great suspense .The play must be carefully watched because it has little subplots that are barely noticeable to the passive eye. Missing any of the clues that the writer gives us as to where he is taking the play will leave anyone in the last ending moments guessing as to how the play will end. The attentive viewer who picks up the writers inflections should have how the play will end well before it’s over!
BY HENRY M. HOLDEN
AREA - World War I created a severe food crisis in Europe as agricultural workers were recruited into military service and farms were transformed into battlefields. As a result, the burden of feeding millions of starving people fell to the United States.
Faced with having to feed an expanded military and a hungry population, the US government reintroduced the idea of War Gardens from World War I. They rebranded them as Victory Gardens for World War II.
Victory Gardens freed up agricultural produce, packaging, and transportation resources for the war effort, and helped offset shortages of agricultural workers. Victory Gardeners increased their health through physical activity, and their families enjoyed better nutrition. The program also fostered patriotism, and a sense of community.
World War II Victory Gardens were grown on farms, in backyards, on city rooftops, in window-boxes, on public lands, and in vacant lots.
Victory Gardens, also called food gardens for defense, were vegetable, fruit, and herb gardens planted around private homes and public parks during both World Wars.
In wartime, governments encouraged people to plant victory gardens not only to supplement their rations but also to boost morale. They were used along with rationing stamps and cards to reduce pressure on the food supply.
Victory Gardens is Morris County’s smallest municipality, measured both by size and population, and its most densely populated. The origins of the borough began as a federal housing project for local defense workers employed at Picatinny Arsenal and other nearby defense related industries during World War II. The initial layout of the land to construction took just six months.
This youngest municipality in Morris County was incor-
Sowing the Seeds of Victory
porated after separation from Randolph Township in 1951. Victory Gardens, like the 19th century company towns that preceded it, was created to encourage efficiency and productivity by providing affordable housing.
Morris County acquired 91 acres in Randolph Township as the site of a 300-unit housing project for war industry employees. The borough was named for the victory gardens planted at private residences during World War I. The federal government paid for all infrastructure.
The program discouraged people from growing private victory gardens in large towns and cities. The general lack of space, poor soil, and poor light meant a poor return on warscarce materials including pesticides, tools, and fertilizers
Gardening was also a way to spend time when not working and a way to improve their surroundings. Because those in the camps were under the same rationing restrictions as other Americans, victory gardens supplemented government-issue meals with fresh and varied produce
Promoted through posters advocating civilians planting their own vegetables, the war garden movement spread by word of mouth, through women’s clubs, civic associations, and chambers of commerce. which actively encouraged participation in the campaign.
First-time gardeners were provided with pamphlets on how, when and where to sow. They were offered suggestions as to the best crops to plant, along with tips on preventing disease and insect infestations.
The venture was so well received that the government turned its attention to distributing canning and drying manuals to help people preserve their surplus crops. In addition to the appeal to men and women, the Federal Bureau of Education initiated a U.S. School Garden Army to mobilize children to enlist as “soldiers of the soil.”
The results of these efforts yielded more than 5.2 million garden plots nationally which generated an estimated 1.45 million quarts of canned fruits and vegetables.
Shortly after the United States was drawn into World War II, victory gardens began to re-emerge. Once again, commercial crops were diverted to the military overseas while transportation was redirected towards moving troops and munitions instead of food.
With the introduction of food rationing in the United States in the spring of 1942, Americans had an even greater incentive to grow their own fruits and vegetables in locations they could find: Eleanor Roosevelt even planted a victory garden on the White House lawn.
Randolph Township residents approved a referendum as part of a September 1951, special election in which voters were asked if the township’s Victory Gardens neighborhood should be removed from the township and created as an independent municipality for its 1,300 residents covering 92 acres.
Victory Gardens was incorporated as a borough by an Act of the New Jersey Legislature on June 20, 1951, from portions of Randolph Township, based on the results of the referendum passed on September 18, 1951.
After almost 40 years, the original buildings needed replacement. A project approved in 1973 brought the construction of 184 units of garden apartments on a site covering 12.4 acres, providing permanent housing for an estimated 400 people. That would be contrasted with the original structures built in 1942 that had long passed their expected lifespan.
People who were unable to garden were encouraged to help preserve produce for others, or to distribute flowers to hospitals and shut ins.
Victory Gardens introduced people to gardening and to un-
familiar crops like Swiss chard and kohlrabi. Some also raised chickens in their gardens, providing eggs, meat, and insect control. Community Victory Gardens provided more than a plot of dirt: “War news was shared. Recipes and remedies were shared, and gossip too.
Some Americans had gardens before World War II. But many were new to the practice: About 18 million families met the situation by growing Victory Gardens. Many of these people will be growing a garden for the first time.
Growing Victory Gardens was only half the challenge. Gardeners also had to preserve their crops for use throughout the year. There were many resources to help people preserve their crops, ranging from information to canning classes.
As in World War I, Victory Gardens freed up agricultural produce, packaging, and transportation resources for the war effort, and helped offset shortages of agricultural workers. Victory Gardeners increased their health through physical activity, and their families enjoyed better diets.
At the outbreak of WWII, virtually all Japanese Americans were relocated to detention camps far away from the cities. Perhaps most importantly, gardening was a way to keep the Japanese heritage alive and foster community healing. Detention camp gardeners planted traditional Japanese vegetables and ornamental plants alongside vegetables like peas, pumpkins, corn, and cucumbers. Japanese gardeners often incorporated traditional layouts and locations in their plantings. Japanese and Japanese Americans planted their gardens in detention camps knowing they may not be there to harvest them. The reasons that residents chose to grow Victory Gardens were complex. For many there was the patriotism of being American and supporting the war, despite the government forcing them into camps.
Federal and state agencies, local governments, private citizens, and civic groups all published guides and held classes to ensure success. They advised on what to grow, how to grow it, gave sample garden plans, sample yields, and information on weed and pest control.
Camp residents planted these trees in part for shade, but they are also a popular choice for bonsai. Soil chemistry identified chemicals added to make the desert soils productive. These included ammonium nitrate, phosphorus, potassium, crumbled eggshells and crushed abalone shells.
By encouraging Americans to spend time outside and eat more fresh produce, the Victory Garden Program promoted healthy habits. In addition to their physical health benefits, victory gardens helped boost morale by bringing communities together.
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can have physical, mental, and emotional health benefits, including lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and improved mood.
Organizers recommended
communal gardening in school grounds, parks, vacant lots, and elsewhere. Companies and agencies including the National Institutes of Health and managers of the Manhattan Project also provided land for employee Victory Gardens. Many Americans had gardens before World War II. But many were new to the practice.
Federal and state agencies, local governments, private citizens, and civic groups all published guides and held classes to ensure success. They advised on what to grow, how to grow it, gave sample garden plans, sample yields, and information on weed and pest control. Many who grew up with Victory Gardens continued gardening throughout their lives and introduced it to their children. Today Victory Gardens in Morris County is like many other suburban regions. But there are some differences. Victory Gardens has curvilinear streets, a pattern that is a legacy of Romanic nineteenth century characteristic of many New Jersey suburbs built in the late 1920s and 30s. It also named its streets after American presidents.
BY DANA JACKSON
Q: Was Keke Palmer ever a child actress? I know she had a music career when she was younger, but what about acting? -- B.Y.
A: Yes, Keke Palmer, who was born in 1993, started out with a very successful acting career by the time she was just 13 years old. She first had a role in the movie “Barbershop 2: Back in Business” before landing Tyler Perry projects like “Madea’s Family Reunion” and “House of Payne.” However, it was a starring role in the film “Akeelah and the Bee,” opposite Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne, that earned her the respect of critics.
She’s also gone the traditional child-actor route on Nickelodeon, with shows like “True Jackson, VP,” but she eventually graduated into a successful movie career as an adult (“Hustlers” and “Nope”).
BY DEMI TAVERAS
“Inside Out 2” (PG) -- The sequel to Disney’s “Inside Out” (2015) has become the second highest-grossing animated film of all time after bringing in a whopping $1.597 billion, and it’s well deserving of its immense success. The film boasts a star-studded cast, with new additions Maya Hawke (“Stranger Things”) and Ayo Edebiri (“The Bear”) joining Amy Poehler, Diane Lane, and Kyle MacLachlan, who reprise their roles from the first film. Taking place two years after she first moved to San Francisco, Riley is now officially a teenager and faces a new learning curve in life as she hits puberty. Insert four new emotions for her to deal with: anxiety, envy, embar-
*** Q: Is it true that “The Librarians” is returning as a series? Will Noah Wyle star in it again?
-- J.C.
A:Noah Wyle’s best-known role outside of playing Dr. Carter on the massive hit “ER” is the role of Flynn Carsen in a series of movies and, subsequently, a TV series called “The Librarians.” In addition to Wyle, the series also starred Rebecca Romijn (“X-Men”) and Christian Kane (“Angel”), as well as beloved television veterans John Larroquette (“Night Court”), Bob Newhart (“Newhart”) and Jane Curtin (“Kate & Allie”).
Their fans haven’t forgotten the franchise, so when it was announced last year that the CW network was reviving it in a new sequel series, they were thrilled. However, “The Librarians: The Next Chapter,” which
Celebrity Extra Couch Theater ENTERTAINMENT
rassment and ennui -- oh, my!
To keep their storytelling as authentic as possible, the film’s production team even consulted psychologists so that teenage viewers could truly relate to Riley’s pestilent pubescent problems. Rent it now! (Apple TV+)
“Twisters” (PG-13) -- Almost three decades after Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton’s “Twister” hit the big screen back in 1996, a standalone sequel was released and pulled in $315.3 million in the box office so far. The new cast of tornado chasers is led by Daisy Edgar-Jones (“Normal People”), Anthony Ramos (“Transformers: Rise of the Beasts”), and the always-grinning Glen Powell (“Hit Man”). Their adrenaline-loving, yet
features a new, young cast (alas, minus Wyle), was originally picked up for the upcoming fall season with a premiere date of Oct. 24. But recently, a report came out that it will not be part of the CW’s fall schedule.
Instead, according to “Deadline,” an eight-part reality series called “The Wranglers” that explores “the world of professional cowboys and cowgirls on a Montana dude ranch” will debut in its place. Heather Olander, head of unscripted programming for the CW Network, explained what inspired the show: “Fans love the drama of the bunkhouse on the scripted hit ‘Yellowstone,’ and now we’re bringing it to life in this series.”
As for “The Librarians: The Next Chapter,” hopefully, it will find a spot on the network’s winter schedule in 2025. Fortunately, Wyle has a new project
brilliant characters take on a myriad of bone-chilling storms throughout rural Oklahoma, facing tornadoes that reach a Category 5 of incredible damage on the EF Scale. While the story’s scientific accuracy has been critiqued, the stunning visual effects make it a mesmerizing, nail-biting watch. Out now to rent. (Amazon Prime Video)
“The Fall Guy” (PG-13) -- Let’s move on to a film that actually underperformed at the box office, even with its two notable stars. This action comedy loosely based on the 1980s TV series of the same name gave us another “Barbenheimer” moment by putting “Barbie’s” Ryan Gosling opposite “Oppenheimer’s” Emily
up his sleeve. He’s set to produce and star in a new medical drama series on Max titled “The Pitt,” which reunites him with “ER” showrunner John Wells.
***
Q: I’m happy that “Good Morning Football” is back on weekday mornings, but why isn’t Jason McCourty back? -K.E.
A:The NFL Network’s highly entertaining morning sports show “Good Morning Football” relocated from the Big Apple to Inglewood, California -- home of the SoFi Stadium. Its four hosts had to make a choice whether to uproot their families to the West Coast, and all but Jason McCourty accepted the move. Meanwhile, McCourty and his twin brother, Devin, who is also a former NFL player, are part of the preseason broadcast team for the
Blunt. Gosling plays stuntman Colt Seavers, who is tasked by his film’s producer to find the missing lead actor, Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), and stop his ex-girlfriend’s (Blunt) film from being ruined. Turning into somewhat of a bounty hunter, Colt starts to track Tom’s whereabouts, but the closer Colt gets to finding him, the more Colt realizes that he’s been seriously misled as to what’s really going on with Tom. Premieres Aug. 30. (Peacock)
“Simone Biles Rising” (TVMA) -- If you didn’t get enough of the talented Simone Biles during the recent Paris Olympics, you should definitely give this two-part documentary se-
New England Patriots. Send me your questions at
life -- as a daughter, a sister, a teammate, a friend and a
Two more episodes of the series are planned to be released later in the fall for a total of four episodes, but you can check out the first two now. (Out now, Netflix) (c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.
ries a try. Viewers can follow along as Biles prepares to make her return to the Olympic stage after withdrawing from the 2020 Tokyo Games due to her struggles with mental health. Starting from the point where Biles felt herself coming apart in Tokyo and leading up to moments before she would snag four medals in Paris, the series gives fans an intimate, up-close portrait of the world-renowned gymnast in all aspects of
Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. (c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.
her
wife.
Actress Keke Palmer (“Hustlers” and “Nope”). Photo Credit: Depositphotos
Ryan Gosling, left, and Emily Blunt star in “The Fall Guy.” Photo Credit: Courtesy of MovieStillsDB
BY RICHARD MABEY, JR.
AREAAs I write this article, it is early morning, in early August. Next month, in early September, I will turn 71. I am woefully aware that I have fallen back in writing back to people who have written to me. Lately too much time has been spent in the waiting room of doctors, going through different cardiac tests and scans, and spending too much time waiting in hospital waiting areas to have MRI’s and more involved heart scans being done.
Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is the second cousin, twice removed, at the family picnic of the priority of heart disease research. It really is. Basically because HCM only affects about one out of every 500 people, and the very specific Apical HCM affects even less people. Regardless of the disease, getting a bad medical report is not a Sunday afternoon picnic. But if I may, here are some uplifting thoughts and perspectives that I would like to share with others.
First and foremost, give yourself the gift of time to be alone with your thoughts, in order to digest your disease. Especially if your disease is terminal. If you believe in God,
When You Are Granted A Bad Medical Report
do three basic things. Pray, then pray some more, then pray even more. If you do not believe in God, please consider pondering how the universe was created. Please do consider, for even a moment, that there may well be a greater Wisdom that greater the universe.
Secondly, go through your stuff. If you want Cousin Tom to have your Cross pen and pencil set, give it to him while you’re still alive. If you live near Cousin Tom, take the time to meet with him and personally hand him your precious pen and pencil set. If miles lie between the two of you, then mail it tom him, with a kind, hand-written letter.
Third, research and research and research your disease. Then research it even some more. Open your mind to new and cutting edge healing procedures to your disease. Keep hope alive in your heart. Keep your mind open to alternative healing methods.
Fourth, talk it out with others. Do not keep your emotions all stored up. Find a support group for your specific disease. If that is not possible, please do find a support group for people with terminal illness.
Fifth, watch rerun episodes of The Andy Griffith Show, or
some other silly sitcom that brings a bit of joy to your heart. Laugh. By all means laugh. Do your absolute best not to swim in the lake of “Feeling Sorry For Myself Pond.” Go through your old scrapbooks, photos, post cards and souvenirs of the places that you once visited that brought joy to your heart.
Sixth, buy a birdbath. Yes, buy a birdbath. Fill it with fresh water three times a day. Place it in a position in your yard, where you can easily see the birds splashing about, from your favorite chair in your living room. Take photos and videos of the birds drinking and playing in your birdbath. You will be amazed at how much joy a simple birdbath can bring to your heart.
Seventh, do not be afraid of hurting your doctor’s feelings. If you feel that your doctor is really not doing his or her best to treat your condition, then move on and find another doctor. But first, pray about this decision. God will guide you in this matter.
Personally, I am now on my third Cardiologist. My first Cardiologist wanted to put me under Hospice Care, right away. My second Cardiologist was pushing for me to have an artificial heart replacement. My
present Cardiologist has the spirit of partnering with me. He sincerely listens to my perspective.
Eighth, write up a legal will. Get it registered with your county. Entrust a copy of it with a dearly trusted friend or loved one.
Ninth, write down your lifetime memories that you want shared with your loved ones. Or have a loved one write down your dear and cherished memories for you.
Tenth, have a loved one or close friend help you create at least one video of you talking and reminiscing about your life. If it’s possible make up a number of videos of yourself, sharing thoughts, beliefs and life memories.
Eleventh, pray, pray and pray. Then pray some more. Then pray even more. Devel-
op a personal relationship with God. Love God with all your heart, mind and soul.
At best this is just a list that touches upon the surface of preparing to cross over to the heavenly worlds. Above all else, tell your loved ones that you love them. Forgive all those who have done you wrong. Be kind to animals. Go out one day, either driving yourself or having someone drive for you. If you can afford it, put $50.00, in five dollar bills, in an envelope. Then, go to shopping centers, parks, and here and there, and give that money to homeless people. God will guide you how many five dollar bills to give to each homeless person. You will be blessed, beyond your wildest dreams, for doing this.
Above all else, be immensely grateful for the time you
Yours truly, in reflecting upon the theme of this article.
were given to be alive upon this earth.
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@ gmail.com.
NJ Ballet Enters 66th Performance Season
The New Jersey Ballet enters its 66th performance season in 2024 (Photo Credit: NJ Ballet)
AREA - The NJ Ballet calls Florham Park home but performs throughout the state of New Jersey during its season. The 2024-2025 season is no different.
The ballet announced recently that it’s 2024-2025 season will house an array of works from George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, Twyla Tharp, Justin Peck, Peter Martins, Lauren Lovette, and also a world premiere from former New York City Ballet principal dancer Harrison Ball.
Maria Kowroski, who has been at the helm of NJ Ballet since 2021, made sure that the 2024/2025 performance season was full of ballet classics and also new pieces.
Around the state, NJ Ballet has performances scheduled at New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Mayo Performing Arts Center, Two River Theater, New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, Bergen Performing Arts Center, and Union
County Performing Arts Center throughout the year.
Among the season’s highlights are George Balanchine’s Serenade, which recently celebrated its 90th anniversary since its premiere in 1935, and Jerome Robbins’ In the Night, performed with live piano accompaniment. In April, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) will present NJB in the Victoria Theater on April 24 and 25. The program will feature Twyla Tharp’s Nine Sinatra Songs and the highly anticipated World Premiere by former New York City Ballet principal dancer Harrison Ball, marking his second world premiere for NJB.
As New Jersey Ballet is the resident ballet company at Mayo Performing Arts Center, planned performances include Creative Forces on Nov. 8, The Nutcracker from Dec. 13 through Dec. 26, Masterpieces in Motion on March 15, 2025, Once Upon A Time on March
23, and Timeless Masterpieces on May 17 and 18. In partnership with the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway, NJB will present two Sensory Friendly programs: The Nutcracker on Sunday, December 1, and Once Upon A Time on March 30. Both Sensory Programs are one hour in length. Season lineup by theater is below: Morristown at the Mayo Performing Arts Center: November 8, 2024: Creative Forces December 13-26, 2024: The Nutcracker with New Jersey Symphony Orchestra March 15, 2025: Masterpieces in Motion; Balanchine and more March 23, 2025: Once Upon A Time May 17 and 18, 2025: Timeless Masterpieces: Swan Lake Act II, George Balanchine’s Serenade and Rubies Newark at the NJ Performing Arts Center: April 24 and 25, 2025: New Jersey Ballet in the Victoria Theater April 24, 2025: NJ Ballet Spring Gala Red Bank at Two River Theater: November 16, 2024: Creative Forces Rahway at the Union County Performing Arts Center: December 1, 2024: The Nutcracker (sensory friendly) March 30, 2025: Once Upon A Time (sensory friendly) New Brunswick at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center:
February 22, 2025: Masterworks in Motion: Balanchine, Martins and more
Englewood at the Bergen Performing Arts Center: December 7, 2024: The Nutcracker December 8, 2024: The Nutcracker
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.njballet.org.
Livingston Resident Hosts New Standards Show on West Coast
BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER
AREA - The moment Livingston resident, Chuck Granata, kicks off his new weekly “Sinatra Standard Time” radio show on KSDS-FM Jazz 88.3 in San Diego, you know this is going to be a treat.
Granata’s voice is smooth and friendly, inviting you to his side by his turntable or CD player, inviting you to listen in and embrace what my dad used to call “the good stuff.”
And it certainly is.
“What people my age consider ‘radio’ has changed considerably in the last 30 years,” Granata said. “There are very few jazz stations in the New York market anymore, and the landmark traditional pop station, WNEW/WQEW, went off the air decades ago. There is no outlet for the Sinatra-style pop-jazz of the 1940s through 70s, except in subscription radio such as Sirius-XM.”
Granata wanted to present a show that you could not hear anywhere else: one that was polished yet fun, as well as interesting and informative without being academic. And he also wanted to purposefully avoid doing an entire program dedicated to “Ol’ Blue Eyes.”
Granata said, “While he (Sinatra) set many of the standards for this music, his was not the only voice. There are many, many vocalists who are as unique and distinct as he was. I also wanted to interweave real jazz instrumen-
tals with the jazz-tinged vocal standards, i.e. play John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins alongside Ella (Fitzgerald) and Frank and Louis (Armstrong). The jazz format of KSDS - and their listeners’ love for Sinatra and the standards - made this approach sensible.”
Granata, 61, is no stranger to radio. He had produced Nancy Sinatra’s Sirius-XM radio show for 15 years and realized he needed a break from the weekly pressure of creating a new three-hour show. However, his love of radio never subsided, and he felt he still had something to offer. Then last December, he was contacted by Ken Poston, who runs the Los Angeles Jazz Society and is the program director at KSDS-FM in San Diego. Granata said, “He asked me to do a series of specials for
their multi-week ‘12 Days of Sinatra’ marathon for Frank’s birthday. I had appeared at a few of the L. A. Jazz Society conferences, and Ken was familiar with my books and my work in the record and radio industry. A few months ago, he asked me to join KSDS’s extraordinary roster of jazz experts and do a weekly show (plus periodic specials). I love KSDS, because the on-air hosts are passionate, deeply knowledgeable, and most articulate. Turns out it was perfect for what I have wanted to do: have my own show on a legitimate terrestrial radio station for a very long time!”
Granata is wrapping up work with several books on music and pop culture and slowly fine-tuning a fiction book - a psychological thriller - that draws on both his po-
What is the Autumnal Equinox?
AREA - Fall begins slightly after the midpoint of September. The arrival of fall may be met with joy that cooler temperatures and vividly colored leaves will soon be the norm. For others, the arrival of fall is met with some trepidation that shorter days will soon pave the way for less sunlight and the inevitable arrival of winter.
Fall begins on Saturday, September 23, 2023, in the Northern Hemisphere on what is known as the autumnal equinox. The National Weather Service reports that the 2023 autumnal equinox will arrive at 2:50 a.m. EDT on September 23. Those who are especially anxious for fall to begin can wake up in the wee hours of the morning and enjoy their first comforting spiced treat of the season. Equinoxes are days during the year when the hours of sunlight and darkness are just about equal, or lasting 12 hours each. At the moment the equinox occurs, the sun will be directly over the Earth’s equator, which contributes to this even distribution of day and nighttime hours. National Geographic describes the equinox as “the event in which a planet’s subsolar point passes through its Equator. It is when solar declination is 0 degrees.” Solar declination refers to the latitude of Earth where the sun is directly overhead at noon. The equinoxes are the only times when both the northern and southern hemispheres experience roughly equal amounts of daytime and nighttime.
After the autumnal equinox, the subsolar point continues to move south as the southern hemisphere tilts toward the sun. Around December 21, the subsolar point hits the Tropic of Capricorn (23.5 degrees S), which marks the winter (December) solstice, or the day with the fewest hours of daylight during the year in the northern hemisphere.
It’s important to note that the equinoxes and solstices are opposite in the hemispheres. The northern hemisphere’s fall equinox occurs on the same day as the southern hemisphere’s vernal (spring) equinox.
The autumnal equinox is a time when hours of daylight and nighttime are equal, something that will not occur again until the arrival of spring.
lice (he is a retired Livingston police officer) and entertainment backgrounds He is also readying certain portions of his extensive recorded sound collection, research interviews and files, and music-marginalia collection for donation to the Great American Songbook Foundation, which is headed by his close friend, singer and pianist Michael Feinstein. Granata said, “We share a deep belief in music preservation and archiving, and I’m slowly archiving the many thousands of records and other items I’ve amassed over the last forty years so that it can serve to inform and enlighten music students and historians long after I’m gone.”
“Sinatra Standard Time” can be heard online every Sunday evening from 5:00 p.m.7:00 p.m. on www.jazz88.org.
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Chuck Granata at the microphone (credit: KEG Productions)
BY RICHARD MABEY,
AREA - At the age of 18, my father enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps, during World War II. What inspired my father to sign up for the Air Corps, is in itself, an inspiring story.
Dad’s older brother, Edward, was serving in the U. S. Navy, aboard a ship, not far from the coast of dear old England. The ship was sunk by a German war ship. Uncle Ed bobbed up and down in the Atlantic Ocean for at least one full day and one full night. He was saved by a British ship. I think that the sinking of Uncle Ed’s navy ship, had a deeply profound effect upon my father. It inspired him to join the service, at such a young age. My father grew up in the shadows of the maple, the elm, the oak and the pines, at the end of Mabey Lane. It was there that his father had built a two-story home. To the west, the north and the east of this dear home, lied a thick forest. To the south, lied a big, open field. My grandfather named the big field, Earl’s Meadow. For it was on this beautiful field that Grandpa’s broth-
I Remember Dad: Home From The War
er, Earl, was going to build a home, when he came home from World War I. Sadly, my Great Uncle Earl was killed in battle in France.
After his basic training was completed, Dad was shipped to Hickam Airfield in Hawaii. Hickam bordered Pearl Harbor. At first Dad had the job of driving a big fuel truck, to fuel up war planes in the open fields of Hickam. Later, Dad would work on P-51 Fighter Planes. Specifically, Dad had the responsibility to change spark plugs in these Mighty Mustangs, as they were also called.
An interesting side note of Dad’s stay at Hickam Airfield is that he became acquainted and became friends with the late, great Jerry Siegel. The man, whom with the help of Joe Shuster, created Superman. Jerry wrote for Hickam Highlights, the official newspaper publication of Hickam Airfield. Dad had the high honor of once being interviewed by Jerry.
My father told me, on several occasions, that there was always the fear of another Jap-
anese attack upon Pearl Harbor and Hickam Airfield. The servicemen at Hickam were always on alert, for another attack. My grandmother, Bertha Mabey, was a very devoted, religious woman. She once told me that she prayed many times a day, that the Japanese would never again attack Pearl Harbor and Hickam Airfield.
During the early Summer of 1946, Dad received an Honorable Discharge from the U. S. Army Air Corps. He had served his country well. Dad returned home to Lincoln Park, to his hamlet homestead at the end of Mabey Lane. He began dating Janet Kemmerer, from Boonton. The girl who had sent him cookies and wrote letters to him during his stay at Hickam. The very girl that Dad married and was destined to became my Mom.
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@gmail.com.
President George W. Bush’s Address to the Nation on Sept. 11, 2001
AREA - On the evening of September 11, 2001, United States
President George W. Bush addressed a nation that earlier that day witnessed the deadliest terrorist attacks in world history. That morning, hijackers took control of four airplanes, ultimately crashing two into the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center in New York City and another into the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. A fourth hijacked plane crashed in a field near the town of Shanksville, Pennsylvania after passengers and crew attempted to regain control of the plane from the hijackers. All passengers and crew on board all four flights died on September 11, and thousands of others on the ground lost their lives that day as well. It was under those conditions that President Bush delivered the following speech to a shaken nation.
Good evening. Today, our fellow citizens, our way of life, our very freedom came under attack in a series of deliberate and deadly terrorist acts. The victims were in airplanes, or in their offices; secretaries, businessmen and women, military and federal workers; moms and dads, friends and neighbors. Thousands of lives were suddenly ended by evil, despicable acts of terror.
The pictures of airplanes flying into buildings, fires burning, huge structures collapsing, have filled us with disbelief, terrible sadness, and a quiet, unyielding anger. These acts of mass murder were intended to frighten our nation into chaos and retreat. But they have failed; our country is strong.
A great people has been moved to defend a great nation. Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America. These acts shattered steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve.
America was targeted for attack because we’re the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world. And no one will keep that light from shining.
Today, our nation saw evil, the very worst of human nature. And we responded with the best of America — with the daring of our rescue workers, with the caring for strangers and neighbors who came to give blood and help in any way they could.
Immediately following the first attack, I implemented our government’s emergency response plans. Our military is powerful, and it’s prepared. Our emergency teams are working in New York City and Washington, D.C. to help with local rescue efforts.
Our first priority is to get help to those who have been injured, and to take every precaution to protect our citizens at home and around the world from further attacks.
The functions of our government continue without interruption. Federal agencies in Washington which had to be evacuated today are reopening for essential personnel tonight, and will be open for business tomorrow. Our financial institutions remain strong, and the American economy will be open for business, as well.
The search is underway for those who are behind these evil acts. I’ve directed the full resources of our intelligence and law enforcement communities to find those responsible and to bring them to justice. We will make no distinction between the terrorists who committed these acts and those who harbor them.
I appreciate so very much the members of Congress who have joined me in strongly condemning these attacks. And on behalf of the American people, I thank the many world leaders who have called to offer their condolences and assistance. America and our friends and allies join with all those who want peace and security in the world, and we stand together to win the war against terrorism. Tonight, I ask for your prayers for all those who grieve, for the children whose worlds have been shattered, for all whose sense of safety and security has been threatened. And I pray they will be comforted by a power greater than any of us, spoken through the ages in Psalm 23: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me.”
This is a day when all Americans from every walk of life unite in our resolve for justice and peace. America has stood down enemies before, and we will do so this time. None of us will ever forget this day. Yet, we go forward to defend freedom and all that is good and just in our world. Thank you. Good night, and God bless America.
A rare photo of Dad and Grandma taken at the end of Mabey Lane, upon Dad’s return home from Hickam Airfield. In the background, on the right hand side of this picture, you can see the garage that Grandpa built. Dad’s old homestead still stands beside that garage. To the best of my knowledge, the old garage is also still standing.
T racey Franco
