East Hanover Florham Park October 2022

East Hanover Township Swears in First Female Police Officer

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

EAST HANOVER - It’s been 92 years since the Township of East Hanover founded its police department, and as of August 1, 2022 there is now an added sense of pride.

On that date, at a Township Council meeting, Jessica Goeltz was sworn in by Mayor Joseph Pannullo and the council as the first female police officer in the department’s history.

“I was filled with a lot of pride,” Goeltz says when recalling the evening. “My father and my grandfather were both police officers, and it was something I’d always been familiar with. I knew what it was like to live with a police officer; I knew what it was like growing up with all that going on. And the past few months I had gotten a taste of it, and I love every call I go on, and every person I meet while doing the job. When I finally heard it read out loud and then I said the oath of office, I was just immensely proud that it was solidified. I’m always that person that, if I can’t feel it in my hands, it’s not really there.

To hear it finally read out loud, shake hands, and have it said and done was just the cherry on top that made it real.”

Goeltz graduated as part of the 98th Basic Police Training

Class from the Morris County Police Academy on Thursday, June 9, 2022, and worked her first shift the following Monday. “The day I graduated the academy, I was handed my certificate, and I was authorized to be a police officer in the state of New Jersey,” she says. “When I signed my conditional offer to go to the academy back in December, that’s when I became a police officer in training. The day I graduated the academy would have been the day I was able to do police work, and Monday the 13th was my first day. From that day on, I was a police officer.”

Goeltz is currently serving on patrol, responding to calls such as accidents and emergencies, and her immediate Supervisor is Matthew Cerrato. “He’s involved in a lot of programs in the department,” Goeltz says, “and I’m looking forward to that. He’s going to bring me on this year and introduce me to those projects like ‘Shop with a Cop.’ The department takes children shopping, and we do the toy drive, and there are other programs that not everyone in the community knows about.

Officer Cerrato is in charge of a lot of that, so I look forward to working with him on those projects, and possibly going to more classes and having a spe-

cialization within department.”

And for those who think that officers just watch the roadways, Goeltz adds, “I would say that 90% of our work is working with the community. Traffic stops do happen, but 90% of our work is day to day calls from people where, from the outside, some people may ask, ‘Why did they call 911?’ or ‘That’s not much of an emergency.’ However, in that moment, it’s important to us and it’s important to them that we’re there to see that problem solved.”

Goeltz, 24, who originally hails from Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, credits her dad, Douglas, with being an inspiration to her. “My father is one of the greatest people,” Goeltz states happily. “All around he is a friend of the world, would give his shirt off his back for anyone, and would work 24 hours a day if he could. He’s just an all around, hard working individual, and really set the bar high for what I’ve always expected and what I expect out of myself as a police officer. I think it’s really important, and that’s the mold that I believe all police officers should follow. My father is just one of the best down to earth people. He is awesome.” Goeltz also mentions that her mom, in addition

Flaming Grill & Modern Buffet Now Open in East Hanover

Florham Park Resident Among First Peace Corps Volunteers to Return to Service Overseas

FLORHAM PARK - Florham Park resident Rakesh Jobanputra is among the first Peace Corps volunteers to return to overseas service since the agency’s unprecedented global evacuation in March 2020. The Peace Corps suspended global operations and evacuated nearly 7,000 volunteers from more than 60 countries at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

EAST

Flaming Grill & Modern

“This new

Flaming Grill

The

American

Mascot” are William Dalia, East Hanover; Hadley Dipopolo , Florham Park; Sharon Roszkowski, East Hanover and Amy DeFranco, Florham Park.

were in: Darrin’s Tree, Anthony Paterno Air Duct Cleaning, AMSD Carpet Cleaning, CycleBar, 24 our Exxpress, East Hanover Diner.

Thanks to everyone who enter and congratulations to our winners!

Modern

“For many years I have volunteered on a part-time basis for non-profits supporting causes ranging from fundraising for blood cancer research to addressing the needs of orphans who have HIV, but I have always known that there would be a time when I would be able to commit and immerse myself on a full-time basis,” said Jobanputra. “Now, with the Peace Corps, the time has finally arrived and I’m looking forward to realizing my ambition to provide maximum impact to a global community.”

Jobanputra is semi-retired from a career in business, most recently serving as the senior vice president treasurer at a media and publishing company in New York City. He will be applying his career experience to serve as a community economic development volunteer in the Republic of Albania.

“The world is at a critical juncture. The largest global vaccination effort in history is underway while other widespread health, social, political,

and environmental issues continue to erode the foundation of our global society. Actions taken in the next few years have the potential to fundamentally impact development trajectories for decades to come,” said Peace Corps CEO Carol Spahn.

“Peace Corps volunteers returning to the Republic of Albania will work alongside community members to support urgent development efforts and

Morris County Chamber of Commerce Director Wendy Long, Mt. Arlington Mayor Mike Stanzilis, East Hanover Coun-cilman Michael Martorelli, East Hanover Council President Brian Brokaw Sr. , East Hanover Mayor Joseph Pannullo, Host Peter Breslow, Morris County Commissioner Thomas J. Mastrangelo.

Officer Jessica Goeltz with her mom and dad to her dad, is also a supporter of her career.

East Hanover Township Police Department Chief of

Police, Christopher Cannizzo, adds, “I’m very proud of Jessica as she not only did incredible in the hiring process, but

she graduated the police academy and now is serving as the first ever East Hanover Police officer in 92 years.”

Hanover Park High School Freshman Has Opportunity to Play Professional Soccer in Turkey

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

HANOVER PARK - Asa Samuels, 52-year-old mom of Hanover Park High School freshman, Walleed Samuels, looks back on her son’s early love of the sport of soccer.

“I decided to put him in a football club in our community,” Asa says. “For me, it was a shock to see how he could control the ball. Excitement ran high on the field when he hit the ball with his head, and he is a true goal scorer. The older he became, the more motivated he got for the game of soccer, and he was always showing up on time for training and matches. Walleed was always chosen as the best player and top goal scorer, and his team always won the tournaments they entered. I am very proud of my son and his soccer talent.”

Recently, 15-year-old Walleed, a top goal scorer and striker for Pro Stars F.C., learned of an opportunity to play soccer in Turkey. However, in order to do so, he and his family need

aid in raising funds.

“My soccer career started at the age of five,” Walleed says.

“I played with a local team in my community and that’s where I started to develop my soccer skills.” As a striker, he never gets tired of being aggressive while in control of the ball, and always has a nose for the goal.

However, Walleed and his family would face adversities.

At the age of nine, during crossfire a bullet entered his back and lodged just an inch from his spine. He was spared. “Thanks to the Almighty,” he says, “he put me back on my feet.” Also, when family’s house burned to the ground, his mom rescued his school clothes, books, and soccer shoes. “I always believe in myself and never give up. I was always selected as a top goal scorer and player of the year. My aim in life now is to become a professional and play in football leagues.”

Walleed’s dad passed away

when his mom was three months pregnant with Walleed. “I struggle on my own,” Asa says, who supports her son and tries to give him the best. “I don’t make much money. I am the only breadwinner in our home.”

The youngest of her four children, Walleed has told Asa that this is a lifetime opportunity for his soccer career. “He wanted to go to an academy soccer school, but I told him that the money isn’t there for that school. He is a very humble child and believes in his dreams,” Asa says. In addition to his dream to play professionally, Walleed wants to buy his mom a house.

Asa says, “My need of assistance is that any donations are welcome that will assist Walleed financially to make his journey to Turkey and his dreams possible.”

Asa Samuels’ heart goes out to her son. “God made a way for me and my family to get

back on our feet again. I will do anything in my power to make my son’s dreams come true.”

For donation information, Asa Samuels can be contacted by phone at 27783443088.

Hanover Park Regional High School District Partnership

HANOVER - - Hanover Park Regional High School District has partnered with New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Inc. (NJMEP), a non for profit organization that offers certification and apprenticeships in the field of manufacturing, to offer a new course called Logistics and Manufacturing in the 202223 school year. The Logistics and Manufacturing course provides two certification programs: supply chain logistics technician and manufacturing production technician. The certified logistics technician course program prepares individuals for front-line material handling and supply chain logistics jobs in fulfillment centers, warehouses, distribution centers, and factories. The certified production technician course program prepares and certifies individuals for career pathways in advanced manufacturing. Both certification programs deliver 21st century, in-demand skills needed for long-term career paths in

over 6 million supply chain and frontline production jobs. The certification programs are nationally accredited and federally recognized. The course is open to 12th grade students only and there are no prerequisites. Upon completion of the certification courses in their senior year, NJMEP will work with the students to provide apprenticeships and long-term job placement in production and manufacturing companies and organizations.

With only a few weeks into the school year, the Logistics and Manufacturing students have already learned multiple content and skills in the area of logistics and environment with a focus on supply chain processes. Built into the course are monthly field trips to various manufacturing industries and companies where students can gain exposure to different fields of manufacturing, learn about the multi-faceted roles and responsibilities of job titles in the field of manufacturing, speak to employees and

Peace Corps...

build critical connections.”

The volunteer cohorts are made up of both first-time volunteers and volunteers who were evacuated in early 2020.

Upon finishing a three-month training, volunteers will collaborate with their host communities on locally prioritized projects in one of Peace Corps’ six sectors – agriculture, commu-

nity economic development, education, environment, health or youth in development – and all will engage in COVID-19 response and recovery work.

The Peace Corps currently has a high need for applicants to fill volunteer programs departing by early 2023. Interested Americans can apply online by October 1 for hundreds of available openings in nearly 48

see how collaboration, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are essential to productivity and efficiency, and witness how logistics and manufacturing fit into real world applications and solutions.

Most recently, the Logistics and Manufacturing students visited Norwalt Design Inc. in Randolph, NJ. Students experienced and saw how employees in the company planned, designed, and built high speed automated multi-part assembly machines. The students saw how Norwalt provides custom assembly solutions for a wide range of industries: medical devices, personal care, household products, food and beverage, and communications. Additionally, the students witnessed the interconnectedness of skills in computer programming, machinery, electronics, communication, computer aided drawing and design, logistics and business management. Furthermore, the students experienced the importance of collaboration, communication,

troubleshooting, and problem-solving in making solutions. These are 21st century life and career skills that are essential for our students to learn as they pursue their career and future endeavors.

Overall, the Logistics and Manufacturing course has catapulted to a great start and the students are excited, motivated, and are looking forward to the content, skills, and applications that they will be learning throughout the school year.

countries worldwide. Volunteers receive a living stipend, extensive language and technical training, and financial benefits including student loan deferment and graduate school fellowships after service. To learn more about how to get involved with the Peace Corps and the benefits of service, connect with a recruiter online or register to attend an event

15-year-old soccer star, Walleed Samuels (courtesy of the Samuels family)

Rose City Runners Looking for Members

area

AREA -

runners! Whether or not you are affiliated with a running club come check out the Rose City Runners! We meet every Saturday morning at the Kitchell Rd.

area of nearby Loantaka Park.

time is 8:30 A.M.

and 9 A.M.November-March.

we are planning a joint run with another club on 10/29 with an earlier

in with us

time.

plan to come that day.)

leave promptly so if it’s your first time come a little early so you can be introduced.

We share post Saturday run breakfast on a park picnic bench. We even have a fire in the shelter fireplace on cold winter days. We do have other activities including member hosted house parties.

Our USATF racing team competes against other NJ clubs. Racing on the team is an

but not a

Just come some Saturday!

run

Rose

New Jersey Ghost Hunters Share Some Paranormal Adventures

AREA - Paranormal activity generally spikes in October according to Maryann Tay lor of Hackettstown. Taylor, a paranormal investigator for four years, is administrator of the Facebook Group, Midlife Spirits and a mem ber of the New Jersey Ghost Hunters Society (NJGHS). That society, a non-profit para normal investigation organiza tion which meets in Hackett stown, was founded in 1998 by L’Aura Hladik Hoffman. Recently, Taylor, Hoffman and another NJGHS member, Lin da Wielkotz, of Fair Lawn, shared some of their paranor mal experiences.

Taylor got involved in para normal investigation about four years ago. A group on Facebook called Lady Ghost Busters was looking for peo ple who had had paranormal experiences. Taylor replied about living in a haunted house. (Her family lives in her husband’s childhood home and has had experiences show ing that his parent’s spirits are there.) From that connection, Taylor got involved in her first paranormal investigation. In 2019, She went to Sterling Mines in Sussex County. In the temperature-controlled en vironment, suddenly there was a mist that would come up to the camera. When the mist was gone, it would return, if beckoned. The members of the group would feel a chill. The chill would move around the circle of members as though it was someone mov ing around them.

Taylor describes herself as “old school”. While other investigators use a variety of technology, she uses a cam era and audio playback. She recalled an investigation of a boy scout camp. During it, she and another investigator

got separated from their group when they went back to get a camera that had been left be hind. After getting it, as they walked to rejoin the group, they heard growling behind them. Thinking a bear was close behind, they ran and got to the building where the rest of the group was. They told the others of being chased by a bear, but when the others looked outside, there was no bear. Someone mentioned that they were in an area where you don’t really see any bears. Later, they listened to the au dio playback of the incident. The growl had some distin guishable words in it: “Don’t let them get away. I want that one.” Taylor hopes she wasn’t the one they wanted.

Unlike Taylor, Wielkotz has been interested in the paranor mal since her teens, Wielkotz noted that her mother would feed that interest by buying her books by parapsychologist Hans Holzer. After her mother died in 1984, Wielkotz had ex periences of her mom visiting her. That prompted Wielkotz to find an organization focused on the paranormal: she found NJGHS.

Wielkotz noted that one of her most memorable experi ences was with the NJGHS during one of two investiga tions done at Rose Hill Ceme tery in Matawan in July 2006. Wielkotz could not make the first investigation but was very intrigued when an email about the second asked for “serious ghost hunters.” When she arrived at the location, it was explained to those present that during the first investigation, stones were thrown at inves tigators by unseen forces. The cemetery had been checked to see if anyone was there before Wielkotz and the others came.

However, those assembled

were told they could leave if they were too frightened. Wielkotz stayed. She shared her account of what happened that night;

“As the group walked up to the old crypt area where the at tacks took place, we were there maybe two minutes when the same thing happened. Stones were being thrown from trees. Many people had experiences with Elementals (spirit ghosts) running around them feeling their energy. When we left to go back to the gate, we stopped at the crypts and a piece of metal was thrown from a bush and a rock was thrown from the top of the crypt hitting an investigator in the side of the head. Again, unseen forces.

As we walked down the path, stones were still being thrown at investigators, hitting back packs until we reached the main path. The spirits in that area did not want us up there for some reason.”

As for Hoffman, according to the NJGHS website, she “has been officially ghost hunting since 1993 and founded the NJ Ghost Hunters Society in 1998, which to date is the larg est paranormal investigating organization in New Jersey.” Recently, Hoffman recalled an incident around 2006/2007 when she led a team, which included their “tech guru”, Brian Sandt, in investigating the happenings at a private family house, down the shore in Spring Lake. The residents of the home had experienced such terror that they could not sleep or live in the house and had moved into a local hotel. That investigation got off to a rather funny start.

“While we were investi gating, in the dark of course, suddenly, bright lights were flashed upon Brian and I and a male voice shouted, ‘Hands

in the air!’ Brian was holding his thermal scanner and to the police it appeared as a firearm, given the low light and shad ows. Brian exclaimed, ‘Don’t shoot! Please! It’s a thermal scanner! Not a gun!’” said Hoffman. Hoffman noted that’s not usually the kind of response police expect to hear. The police turned on the room lights and checked their IDs. Hoffman and her team ex plained they were there check ing out reported paranormal activity. Suspicious, the police contacted the homeowner who came to the home and verified who they were and their story.

After the homeowner and police left, Hoffman and her team started the investigation. They discovered a strong pol tergeist energy in the house. Hoffman explained what hap pened next:

“We experienced golf balls being thrown at us while coming down the stairs from the second floor. We tracked

unusually high EMF within the center of the living room [though there were] absolute ly no electric outlets, ceiling lamps, or power source avail able to supply such readings!

And the ‘wow factor’ of this investigation: we were gath ered around the center island counter in the kitchen. I had my digital audio recorder in the middle of the counter re cording our discussion. It was positioned parallel to me on the counter. Suddenly, it made a 1/4 turn and was now per pendicular to me on the count er. We all saw it move by an unseen hand! Concurrent to this movement, Brian’s EMF Meter chimed out a spike in the EMF reading. We could ‘feel’ the energy pass right through us and then we heard a loud knock come from the living room. We went to in spect and found another golf ball still slightly rolling on the floor at the foot of the stairs. Apparently, the ghost was hav

ing fun showing off its ability to move the audio recorder and hurled another golf ball.”

Besides being the found er and director of NJGHS, Hoffman is also an author and does presentations on the paranormal. On October 17 at 6:00 PM, she’ll be pre senting “Ghosthunting NJ & NYC: Updated!!” at Em maus Public Library, 11 East Main St., Emmaus, PA. On October 27th at 7pm, she’ll be at the Old Bridge Public Library, Central Branch, One Old Bridge Plaza, Old Bridge, NJ, presenting “Ghosthunting NJ & NYC: Updated!!”. On October 29th at noon, she will be presenting “Mysteries of the Paranormal” at the Plum stead Branch of Ocean County Library, 119 Evergreen Rd., New Egypt, NJ.

For more information on the NJGHS, visit its website www.njghs.net/njghshome. html

L’Aura Hladik Hoffman, founder of the New Jersey Ghost Hunters Society and the cameraman from a German TV crew that went on an investigation with her and a team in Carlstadt.

First Presbyterian Church of Hanover – Where History and Faith Intertwine

BY ELSIE WALKER STAFF

HANOVER - The story of the First Presbyterian Church of Hanover, at 14 Hanover Road in East Hanover, is one where faith and history intertwine. Formed in 1718, the church’s cemetery has the graves of soldiers from many wars plus some notable figures. In addition, its history reflects the church’s faith. For example, while even today, getting vaccinated/inoculated has been debated, the entire congregation of that Presbyterian church took a leap of faith during the Revolutionary War and were inoculated for the deadly smallpox. However, the church’s faith is not just about the past. It continues today by helping others through a variety of outreaches, including a part of its more recent history, the establishment of its Heavenly Treasures Thrift Store in 2014.

The church began in the 1700’s. A church history booklet explains how the landscape was viewed in those days: “1710, a few families moved from Newark and Elizabeth, etc. and settled on the west wide of the Passaic River, in that which is now Morris County. The settlement of Hanover gave name to the whole region, and the county was comprised in one township.” The First Presbyterian Church of Hanover was formed in 1718 and a house of worship erected that year. It was the mother church from which Presbyterian churches in other areas would later form.

Since the original building there have been two others. The first building was replaced by a new house of worship in 1755.

When that building was no longer usable, it was taken down and the church which stands today was built: in 1835.

Recently, church historian, Betty Albert, shared a few interesting tidbits of the church’s early history.

She noted that people rented their pews in the early years. The closer to the altar, the higher the charge. There was a little bench in each pew. The bench was for people to keep their feet up off the cold floor. “There was really no heat at one point.

There were two pot belly stoves but that’s not going to heat the inside of a two-story church. People would bring corn cobs or hot coals or something and little containers,” explained Albert. The pews were enclosed with a little door. Albert shared that the door served two purposes: to keep the warmth in and to symbolically shut out the cares of the world so the parishioners could focus on worship.

The church played a few roles in the Revolutionary War. One was as a make-shift hospital for soldiers. Also, during the Battle of Springfield, men of the church would go to protect the local bridge that went over the Passaic River. That was a point of easy entry for the British to get into Morris County. It has also been rumored that George Washington and his staff occupied the original manse (parsonage) at one time.

A notable pastor of the

church during this period was Rev. Jacob Green. (He served the church from 1746 to 1790).

Not only that did he serve the church, but he was a member of the first Provincial Congress and chairman of the committee which drew up the first Constitution of New Jersey. Rev. Green was considered ahead of his time. That was reflected in how he handled the smallpox outbreak during the Revolutionary War.

“Rev. Green talked his congregation into taking an inoculation. That’s unheard of… back then they would take and scrape, from what I read,…. the sores of the smallpox from somebody [who had it] and rub it on your skin. Now, the congregation was taking a chance because they could come down with smallpox and die from it. Yet, he talked them into taking this inoculation,” explained Albert. She went on to say that none of the congregation died from smallpox and they lived to old age.

Albert noted that another way Green was ahead of this time is that he preached against slavery and predicted it would be the downfall of this country.

Green is buried in the church’s cemetery, a place which also reflects the history of this country. The graves of 38 Revolutionary War soldiers, three from the War of 1812, eight from the Civil War, one from WWI and two from WWII can be found there. The oldest grave in the cemetery is dated 1750 and belongs to a lady named Ruth Bumet.

Two of the notables buried in the cemetery are David Young and Aaron Kitchell. Young started the Farmer’s Almanac in 1818. Among many things, he was a teacher and astronomer who loved to calculate the movement of the stars. Albert noted that it is said that Young was once asked by France to calculate if the Star of Bethlehem

reach.

“We have an active Boy Scout group which has had some boys who progressed to Eagle Scouts,” shared Crofton.

That is East Hanover Boy Scout Troop #128 which the church has sponsored and supported for 10 years.

During the year, other outreach projects include “Souper Ball Sunday” where they collect money on the Sunday the Super Bowl is played with the collection going to Interfaith Food Pantry in Morris Plains.

They also donate to the pantry in November. The church collects coats and jackets for the Salvation Army in Morristown. Also, toys and mittens, gloves and scarves are collected and brought to the Salvation Army.

The church has the Heavenly Treasures Thrift Store which sells new and gently used jewelry, handbags, kitchen articles (such as dishes, glass-

es, pots, pans, coffee pots), blankets, toys, games, puzzle, Lenox, crystal dishes, some small furniture, and many other items. The store also has a permanent Christmas room to let people get a head-start on decorations to make the holiday merry.

“The store was first opened in 2014 with one room as a mission program to earn money to donate to various charities such as Friends of East Hanover, Interfaith Food Pantry, Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, Operation Holiday, and Salvation Army,” noted Crofton. Today, the store has four rooms and in addition to helping charities, it benefits its historic church. The store is located directly across the street from the church at the back of the parking lot. It is open on Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.

For more information on the thrift store, see its webpage at www.firstchurchhan.org/ourthrift-store/

NORMAN

its historic structure, which is expensive. Anyone wanting to donate to the restoration of the church can send donations to Historic Building Restoration Fund, 14 Hanover Road, East Hanover, N.J. 07936.

While preserving its history, the church continues in the present….and that present includes worship and outreach.

First Presbyterian Church of Hanover is located at 14 Hanover Road in East Hanover. was real. He did and said it was. As for Kitchell, he was the first New Jersey Congressman, was a paymaster for the Army and a U.S. Senator. Albert shared that Kitchell was friendly with George Washington, but instead of having him for big fancy dinners, they would share simple meals. Kitchell is said to have been an honorary pallbearer at Washington’s funeral.

In 1977, the First Presbyterian Church of Hanover was put on the New Jersey and National Registry of Historic Places. A restoration project on the church building, helped in part by a grant from the Morris County Preservation Trust Fund, began in 2005. The church reached out to congregation members and others for donations to fund the rest of the project. Though the project was “completed”, Albert will tell you that with a historic building, restoration/repairs never really stop. Also, any work done to the church must be done in a way to preserve

Church member, Marilyn Crofton of East Hanover, shared that the church has a traditional worship at 10:30 am each Sunday. There’s been no choir since the pandemic, but those attending worship enjoy music from the church’s beautiful Moeller pipe organ (which it purchased in 1912 and fills one wall of the church), and the service is led by interim pastor, David Taylor. The church has a coffee hour once a month after worship. Once a year, in the fall, it hosts a welcome back luncheon for members who were away for the summer.

The church is active in out-

New

Flooring Expert

Morris County Man Releases Book About Morristown Ghost Hoax BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

AREA - For Denville resident

Peter Zablocki, it is always a whirlwind of activity, and if you’re a history fan – especially the local stuff – enjoy being swept up.

Zablocki’s latest offering, The 1788 Morristown Ghost Hoax: The Search for Lost Revolutionary War Treasure, was published by The History Press in July, and is availableappropriately - as the fall and Halloween seasons enter.

“I’m always full of ideas,” Zablocki says. “Once I start researching because I’m curious, the research always leads to ‘Well, I want to tell that story,’ so that leads to me writing. It’s been a lot.” And it leads to more for the ardent researcher. “I always want to write, I’m always asking questions, and especially the research. You find one thing while you’re researching something else, and that gets you going, and then you kind of put it to the side, and then you come back to it.”

His readers, no doubt, are grateful for it, but partner the above with his co-hosted “History Teachers Talking” podcast, his job teaching History and Advanced Placement Research at Kinnelon High School, and also being Vice-President of the Denville Historical Society, Museum, and Research Center, he’s happily immersed in his subject matter.

Minus giving too much away, The 1788 Morristown Hoax: The Search for Lost Revolutionary War Treasure, starts in Schooley’s Mountain, where a supposed treasure was buried. “I call this one of my ‘COVID Trilogy,” Zablocki says. “I wrote it the same time, believe it or not, as I wrote Denville 13: Murder, Redemption, & Forgiveness in Small Town New Jersey and Terror

Over Elizabeth New Jersey: Three Airplane Crashes in 58 Days and the Fight for Newark Airport. I almost felt like a detective to be honest with you. I started doing this because the story of the Morristown Ghost has been told numerous times, perhaps not so much recently, but there are a lot of different books about stories of New Jersey and it’s always incorporated into those fables. It’s very much next to your New Jersey Devil. There’s a ghost, and then so on and so forth, and there had been a reenactment of the story that was done in Morristown years ago in the 1980’s. I started looking into it and asked myself, ‘How much of it is a fable?”

Here’s the gist of it. There was local legend that British Loyalists had buried a Patriot treasure on Schooley’s Mountain prior to fleeing as George Washington and his troops were approaching. In 1788

Ransford Rogers, a former Connecticut school teacher, led prominent Morristown families to believe that a ghost was protecting the treasure, and that he, Rogers, alone could exorcize it. His goal? Extortion of money from the families.

“Once you start really looking into the sources,” Zablocki

says, “you realize that actually, it’s not really a fable at all. It was a real event that transpired in Morristown in the 1700’s.

There are court records of it. I was trying to place this story, take it out of fiction, where it kind of has been dwelling for the past couple of hundred years, and put it back into his-

tory. How did this happen? So if this happened, and I was able to find out that it did, why did it happen? Why would a group of wealthy members of Morris County, Morristown society, believe there to be a ghost?”

Did Rogers succeed? Read the book.

Zablocki has been churning

out books with regularity the past few years. In addition to Denville 13 and Terror Over Elizabeth, he has also had published Bullets That Changed America: Thirteen Historic Assassinations, Duels, Misfires, and Murders, Denville Goes to War: Denville’s Story of World War I, and the follow-up, Denville in World War II. And with The 1788 Morristown Ghost Hoax, he is quick to recognize those who, during the pandemic, were kind enough to help when needed. “The libraries were super awesome,” Zablocki says. “A lot of different local libraries, including the Denville Library in Denville, as well as the Morris County Library or Morristown Library, were able to get me the books that I needed. I would pull up and they’d put them in my trunk. Also, the Morris County Historical Society actually opened the doors for me during the lockdown with the primary documents and files that I needed with regards to this case. I’m very thankful to local historical societies and libraries for allowing me to do research regardless of the fact that most of the world was locked down.”

The 1788 Morristown Ghost Hoax: The Search for Lost Revolutionary War Treasure, is available at both www.Amazon.com and www.BN.com.

For more information about Peter Zablocki and his work, visit www.peterzablocki.com.

Letter to the Editor: Re-Elect Joanne Greene Tobias

My name is Joanne Greene Tobias, of Florham Park, and I am running for re-election as the Florham Park representative to the Hanover Park Regional High School District Board of Education. I have served on the Board for the past 6 years. It is truly my honor to serve on the Board and represent the students, parents, and staff of this outstanding school district. I am running for re-election because I am proud of the work and leadership of our Board but we have more to do.

I have lived in Florham Park for the past 26 years with my husband, and three children. All of my children attended the Florham Park Public Schools from kindergarten to graduation day at Hanover Park High School. I am a retired New Jersey public school teacher with a Master’s Degree in Special Education, 4 teaching certifications and decades of experience in the field of education. Including, 6 years of valuable experience while serving on the Florham Park Board of Education.

I am a veteran, having served in the USAF, Reserves

and Active Duty, for fourteen years. During my enlistments

I was a jet engine specialist, working the flight-line and launching aircraft. I was later recruited into Air Force Intelligence. I served in the Persian Gulf War and was awarded the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal in 2004. I was invited as a Charter member of WIMSA (Women in Military Service for America). I am profiled at the memorial, located in Arlington National Cemetery.

During my 6 years on the Hanover Park Regional High School Board of Education, the District has been consistently designated as “High Performing” by the New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum (QSAC).

The Board has been fiscally responsible, being respectful of the state mandated 2% budget cap. For the 10th year in a row, Hanover Park HS has been designated as a “No Place for Hate Gold Star School” from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Gold Star status is reserved for schools that have gone above and beyond the ADL’s recommended criteria.

In addition, Hanover Park HS has been recognized as a National District of Character for the past 5 years. Our graduates have gone to Harvard, Northwestern, NYU, Brown, and Vanderbilt, just to name a few.

I have Chaired the Curriculum, Personnel, Policy, and Student Affairs Committees and earned Certified Board Member status from the New Jersey School Board Association Board Member Academy.

For the 2022 school year, I was appointed Delegate to the NJ School Board Association.

I am currently serving in my fourth year on the Morris County School Board Association Board of Directors and Chair the Morris County Recognition Committee. This committee recognizes graduating high school students entering into fields of trade, those preparing to become first responders, entering military service, as well as special needs students transitioning to vocational programs.

Serving on the Hanover Park Regional High School Board of Education, requires a commitment of one’s time.

There are Board and Committee meetings throughout the entire year, including preparation for those meetings. Each Board member is assigned to three committees, chairing one. In addition, there is mandatory Governance Training for all Board members. Board members are encouraged to attend an annual 3-day NJ School Board Association Workshop, where valuable training opportunities are offered. The public should have confidence in the commitment of their Board members to the District.

When any candidate seeks an elected office, it is important they make themselves available to the public. It is imperative, especially in school board elections, for voters, residents, parents, students, and teachers, to have the opportunity to ask questions: Why do you seek this Board position? What are your objectives, motives, agenda, ideas for the District? What experience do have to offer to be an effective Board member? Having faith and trust in Board members experience, dedication, leadership,

and ability to facilitate Board operations is important to the voters of Florham Park. And I have the experience and commitment to serve Florham Park and the Board of Education.

Unfortunately, the Hanover Park Regional High School District Board of Education Candidates Forum, sponsored by the League of Women Voters, was cancelled. I would have welcomed questions, in a public forum since I am asking for your consideration and your votes on November 8th.

I have earned the trust of this community and I will continue to be diligent and conscientious in matters concerning the District. I have the ability to make tough decisions and see all sides. I have a unique perspective to serve in this position, considering I am an educator, the parent of three children, and a taxpayer. I will continue to respect and uphold the integrity of the Board and do what is best for the students of our District.

The Hanover Park Regional HS District will begin this new school year fully staffed for operational purposes and with no covid restrictions!

We are looking forward to a productive, exciting, safe, and healthy school year. Look for upcoming information on improvements to Hanover Park’s unique California-style campus. GO HORNETS!

Most Sincerely, Joanne Greene Tobias Hanover Park Regional High School BOE

If anyone has questions for me, I welcome the opportunity to answer them. I can be contacted via email at: jtobias@ hpreg.org

For additional information about myself, latest news and legislative updates visit my campaign web site at: www. re-electjgtobias4hpregboe.org

Paid for by Committee to Re-Elect Joanne G. Tobias to HPBOE

Joanne Greene Tobias

Peter Zablocki (courtesy of Peter Zablocki)

Patriots’ Path Council of the Boy Scouts of America Strive to Serve

AREA - The Patriot’s Path Council of the Boy Scouts of America, a not-for-profit organization, strives to serve more youths and provide worthwhile programs.

“The Boy Scouts of America was formed in 1910 and has been serving our local communities and youth for more than 112 years,” says Marc Andreo, Scout Executive and CEO of the Patriots’ Path Council.

“The Patriots’ Path Council was formed in 1999 to improve Scouting programs and services in north and central New Jersey through the merger of Scout Councils. While the pandemic was very dif-

ficult, our Scouts and volunteer leaders not only adapted but excelled at staying active through online meetings as well as outdoor meetings and campouts, before being able to get back to our traditional venues this year. This fall we have set a goal of recruiting more than 2,000 new youth and their families which will keep us on pace to achieve our pre-pandemic participation levels.”

The Patriots’ Path Council serves the counties of Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Sussex and Union. “Our four Scouting Districts work to keep Scouting local by providing volunteer and unit support as well as

unique programming activities throughout our service area,” says Andreo.

Jeremy Godwin currently serves as Marketing and Communications Committee Chairperson on the Council Executive Board. “For Scouts in Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Sussex and Union counties, the Patriot’s Path Council is the local connection to Scouting,” says Godwin. “We operate one of the best and safest programs that develop young men and women into the leaders of tomorrow.” Godwin also alludes to the immense numbers of scouts and scout leaders who are involved

Florham Park Firefighting and World War II Vet Honored at Citi Field

Denville Scouts who benefit from the work of the Patriots’ Path Council

and benefit from the program. “We’re very proud of the numbers and how many people of all ages choose to help themselves and their communities through Scouting. The values of good character, citizenship, personal fitness and leadership will influence these Scouts for life. These translate to things like helping people whenever it’s needed and always being prepared.”

thinking about what you’re doing and doing what needs to be done to your best ability. I learned from Scouting that ‘citizenship’ isn’t just being kind to everyone, but doing the right thing, and even more!”

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

FLORHAM PARK - Bob Newhouse, a World War II veteran and member of the Florham Park Fire Department for 68 years, was honored on August 27, 2022 by Major League Baseball’s New York Mets.

Newhouse was the Veteran Honoree when the Mets hosted the Colorado Rockies, who they defeated, 3- 0.

“We are very proud of his service and have so much respect for all those who serve and who have served,” says Rebecca Newhouse Trachsel, who along with her husband, former Mets pitcher Steve Trachsel, nominated her dad for the honor. “We think they all deserve to be recognized.”

“My daughter and son-inlaw told me that they nominated me. I guess they thought it was fitting for me to be honored at ‘Old Timers’ Day,” says a happy Bob Newhouse.

In fact, the timing was indeed just right. “This was a very special event for all of us,” Newhouse’s daughter says. “My husband was invit-

ed by the Mets to attend ‘Old Timers’ Day.’ It was made even more special when the Mets chose to honor my dad as the veteran of that game. So many of our friends and family were able to be at the game to enjoy both celebrations. We thank the New York Mets for such a special event and taking great care of all of us.”

Her dad echoes her words.

“The Mets took very good care of us. A lot of my family members were in attendance. My wife, two daughters and sonsin-law, my son and daughterin-law, and six of my grandchildren.”

That evening, Newhouse was led under the lights onto beautiful Citi Field in Queens and was presented by Mets pitcher, Chris Bassitt, with a flag that was flown over the stadium, as well as medal for his service.

Newhouse has been a volunteer fireman with the Florham Park Fire Department for almost 70 years. During that time, he has served as Presi-

dent of the Florham Park Fire Department Association and secretary for the Exempt Association, and is a member of the Florham Park Fireman’s Relief Committee. He also served in the United States Army for three years during World War II, spending 14 months in the United States and 14 months in Europe, where he fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He was employed as a wireman who laid hardwire for telephones.

Newhouse has been a baseball fan for many years, and shows no partiality – he roots for both the Mets and Yankees.

His favorite players are the legendary, great Mets pitcher, Tom Seaver, and Yankee third baseman, Bobby Brown. When asked what is most important to him now, he responds, “My faith and my family.”

Rebecca Newhouse Trachsel again expresses her gratitude to the New York Mets.

“Thank you for recognizing my dad yet again. He’s a very special person to our family, our community, and this country.”

Johannes (last name omitted by request) is a Star Scout and a Troop Guide for Troop 39 in Morris Plains. “Scouting has had a huge impact on my life,” says Johannes. “As part of my troop, I’ve spent a night on a battleship, gone canoeing, sailing, kayaking, zip lining, and spent more than two weeks outside hiking and camping -- even during the pandemic. Scouting teaches those real-life skills that you don’t learn at school. First Aid and Lifesaving, for example, are required Merit Badges to be earned to become an Eagle Scout.” Johannes then echoes Godwin’s last statement. “I think about all the people I have met in my Scouting journey, all the effort I put in to get to where I am now, and what I learned along the way. I learned from Scouting that ‘Good Character’ isn’t just doing what you’re told, it’s

“The people involved in Scouting, both youth and adults, are the kind of people you want your kids around,” affirms Stacey Riggert, Scoutmaster for Troop 1936 in Morristown. “The leaders care. They want to be there. They believe in the aims (or values) of the program, they want to have fun but, more importantly, they are rewarded by the ability to mentor our youth. The Scouts are good kids; some need more guidance than others, but they are really good kids. The Scouting program does not just provide an activity, it instills and reinforces values and teaches Scouts not only how to contribute to their family, their unit and the community, but it also teaches life skills.”

Per Andreo, in addition to The Patriot’s Path Council traditional programs, expanding will be the supplemental program opportunities for Scouts and their families.

“This is designed to support our 4,000 Scouting leaders who step up to serve our boys and girls and to also ensure that we keep our

program fresh and relevant for today’s youth. We continue to invest resources into our two Scout Camps with new program areas and continued maintenance and upkeep of our existing facilities. Mount Allamuchy Scout Reservation in Stanhope and Winnebago Scout Reservation in Rockaway provide a year-round oasis of camping and program opportunities for our Scouts. Additionally, we provide a service center in Cedar Knolls where we operate a Scout Shop, host meeting and trainings as well as the operation of our administrative offices. For 2023, we are also launching a Scouting Ambassador program to spread the word about the great programs and community service provided by our Scouts, their families, our volunteer leaders, and our chartered partners.”

For more information about Patriots’ Path Council of the Boy Scouts of America, visit www.ppcbsa.org. Scouting programs are available from kindergarten through high school. For parents with a son or daughter interested in scouting, contact Shawn Trimmer at shawn.trimmer@scouting.org, or (973) 765-9322 extension 229.

Bob Newhouse with Mets Pitcher Chris Bassitt (credit: New York Mets)

with Saint Clare’s Kristeen DeCristofaro, Breast Cancer Survivor

MARK J. BONAMO STAFF WRITER

Kristeen DeCristofaro was forced to face one of her greatest fears when she was diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago. A New Jersey native and pharmacist at Saint Clare’s Health, DeCristofaro now had to navigate her disease not as an employee, but as a patient.

Her journey from hospital arrival to cancer survival at Saint Claire’s Health is one about re-

ceiving exceptional care around the corner from where she lives, while taking advantage of the type of technology that keeps the hospital ahead of the medical curve.

“I have a strong family history of breast cancer. My mom had it, and so did my aunt,” said DeCristofaro, 42, who lives in Warren County. “I started getting screened when I was 35,

just to make sure that everything was okay.”

After detecting her cancer, DeCristofaro soon had her Saint Clare’s care team in place to manage through treatment, including a radiologist, oncologists, surgeons, nurse navigators, a social worker, a physical therapist specializing in lymphedema (a common side effect of some cancer treatments) and more.

DeCristofaro knew that a coordinated team would have a major impact on her level of care. A highly qualified tumor board, comprised of the exceptional medical team, collaborated to help her determine the best course of treatment. It was the power of this team working together that enhanced every level of care to help her reach the best patient outcome.

“Initially they didn’t know if I was going to need radiation or chemotherapy. They knew obviously that I was going to have surgery of some type to remove the cancer, so they all put their different disciplines together to develop an attack plan,” DeCristofaro said. “Then everyone sits down, and they talk to you about your case. At a close-knit community hospital like Saint Clare’s, you benefit from that personal touch right when you really need it. They don’t treat you like a number. They treat you like a human being.”

DeCristofaro chose to have a double mastectomy, largely because of her family’s history. Her surgery took place only

about two and a half months after her diagnosis.

“They actually saw multiple spots in one breast during my biopsy. There were three separate cancerous lesions. I didn’t want to take the risk of it spreading. Let’s just knock it all out,” DeCristofaro said. “When my mom had cancer, she had her mastectomies two years apart, which was a lot. So I made the decision that I wanted to get this all done, all together. Now, it’s all taken care of.”

Radiation therapy was another important element of DeCristofaro’s treatment. While radiation treatment can leave many patients apprehensive, DeCristofaro noted that the setting and advanced technology at Saint Clare’s put her mind at ease.

“I actually had a wonderful experience with radiation here. I’ve heard that other places are very cold. People just kind of treat you like a body and push you through the process. During my treatment at Saint Clare’s, I had to be there every weekday for six weeks for a total of 30 treatments. My treatment ran like a well-oiled machine, very efficient. But at the same time, it was very warm and personal.”

DeCristofaro described her radiation treatment as something that became part of the natural rhythm of her life.

“They put you on a table the first time you go to the treatment room, and they make a mold that you lay in every day. Then

Kristeen DeCristofaro

you lay in the exact same position every single time when this beam goes around you, kind of like an open air MRI. You stay still for about 10 or 15 minutes, then it’s over.”

After her radiation treatments, DeCristofaro’s cancer care team remained committed with her case.

“My physicians and team checked in with me constantly. They were available to me day and night. I could talk to them whenever I needed them,” she said. “And the nurse navigators, a unique part of care here at Saint Clare’s, did an amazing job for me before my surgery. They literally held my hand at times to get me through what I had to deal with. All of it is, of course, a little scary. It’s so important to have the right people around you.

I felt very strongly that medical team was on the same coordinated plan and that they were very supportive. Cancer isn’t just physical, it’s mental. It’s your life, it’s your family’s life, it’s everything.”

DeCristofaro was surrounded by the same circle of care at Saint Clare’s for her reconstructive surgery and for her ongoing treatment.

“It’s been a journey, but I feel good, and my prognosis is good. I’ll have side effects from medications I need to take for the next several years, but they’re manageable. I’m an optimistic person. Between my care team and my family, I have every reason to be.”

DeCristofaro has spoken to other women who are going through breast cancer treatment. Overall, she had two solid pieces of advice.

“I would tell anyone seeking breast cancer treatment to come to Saint Clare’s. I knew I was going to get great care close to home, and I knew I was going to have exceptional doctors and nurses. I knew I was going to have a whole team of people with me. They really treat the whole person,” DeCristofaro said. “Otherwise, if you find out you have breast cancer, center yourself and make a plan. Don’t believe everything you read on the internet. Make your plan, then take it one step at a time, and don’t get ahead of yourself. You’ll get through to the other side of this. You can do this.”

For more information about cancer care at Saint Clare’s Health, visit https://www.saintclares.com/services/breast-care/

Utah Man Walks Across the United States and Enjoys the People and Places in New Jersey

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

AREA - Utah resident, Isaiah Glen Shields, has been walking across the United States for the past 18 months, and recently arrived in New Jersey.

While passing through, he strolled the streets of some of the My Life Publications publication areas, and he met up with some very nice people and beautiful landscape.

According to his Facebook page, Shields passed through Phillipsburg, Hackettstown, Roxbury, Denville, Butler, Pompton Lakes, Riverdale, and Oakland. When contacted by phone, he was on a traffic heavy street in Norwalk, Connecticut, but he had not forgotten stepping through the upper portion of the Garden State.

Shields first entered New

Jersey in September by crossing over the Route 22 bridge from Easton, Pennsylvania, and landed in historic Phillipsburg. “I think I had looked at New Jersey on the map to just sort of get the gist of what I was going to be expecting. I guess everybody has a little bit of an inkling of what places look like,” he says. “I’ve never been to India, but when I picture India, I picture the Taj Mahal and crowded streets. I don’t think I’ve ever spent much time in New Jersey, and I saw a picture with a lot of suburban build up. But what I wasn’t really expecting to find was so much nature, and I guess ‘The Garden State’ is a slogan that people haven’t really understood well outside of New Jersey. There’s

Anthony

a lot of really, really beautiful things here.”

Shields’ videos show him walking the industrial area of the city of Phillipsburg, but in contrast also strolling by serene farmlands right off of Route 57 in Washington Township prior to hitting Hackettstown. “No matter where I go, the sunset is visible there if you’re there at sunset, and with the people I met, there’s a lot of value in their story no matter what area it happens to be in,” he says.

“There was no major source of inspiration,” Shields says regarding his reasons to walk across the country. “Everybody has ideas that cross their mind from time to time. Some people have the idea to join a high school football team or to open

a popcorn stand, restore an old Corvette in their garage. I was sitting at work one day and I had the idea, got kind of passionate and couldn’t stop thinking about it, and eventually I just left. It was pretty uncomplicated, just really pretty random and arbitrary, and sounded like something I wanted to do.” Shields’ career is what you see. His walk has become a source of revenue on social media for him. “Hopefully I can just keep doing something like this. But prior to me departing, I worked as a corporate finance analyst.”

Shields also has created a You Tube channel titled “You Do You.” “I often tell people that in order to be happy, they need to radically change their lifestyle. My core thing I kind of believe is that ‘You Do You’ is supposed to embody is just to act on those things that speak to you most deeply. I just bought a house, graduated college, had a mortgage, and was sort of on a good path for security. But I had this idea that just kept me up at night and really, really spoke to my soul in some way.”

Shields’ ultimate destination is Lubec, Maine, the eastern-most point of the United States, and will eventually commit his travels to a book project.

Shields also discovered that

New Jerseyans can be pretty congenial folks, too. “People told me there might be some people who are less interested in my journey while I was in New Jersey, and I’ll just have a bit of an experience there,” he says. “Really, there’s just as many people kind people in New Jersey as anywhere. I had people open their homes to me, I had people letting me stay on their property, and people inviting me in to show me their lives and their lifestyles.”

Shields met one couple who worked for M&M Mars in Hackettstown. “They met me on the streets of Hackettstown,” he explains. “They didn’t really know a lot about me at the time, but they looked me up later. Then, when I was in New York City, they drove out and gave me a tour of the M&M store there in Times Square. You never know what kind of opportunities are going to come when you do something like this.”

Cherish Thy Beloved Memories: The Cousin As Close As A Brother Be

BY RICHARD MABEY JR. STAFF WRITER

AREA - If there was ever a true-life Richie Cunningham and Fonzie, it was my cousin, Edward Mabey and myself. I was the clean-cut scout leader, being a bit shy and Ed wore a leather jacket, was outgoing and was bigger than life.

Although we were cousins, we were closer than a lot of brothers are. Ed is a few years younger than me. Ed was in his early twenties, when his mom and dad moved to Nevada. Ed moved into the old Mabey Homestead with us for a few years. It was during those years that Ed and I grew to become brothers in spirit.

It was in the late 1970’s that Ed, my sister Patti, and myself were all taking evening classes at County College of Morris. Ed was studying engineering, Patti was studying psychology and I was taking a lot of various writing classes. After working all day at our respective jobs, we would quickly eat supper and then zoom up Route 10 to County College. It was a grand and glorious time.

Ed was an outstanding bowler and I was a wonderfully mediocre bowler. But it didn’t matter at all. I remember it was on Wednesday evenings

that none of us had any classes. Ed and I would drive out to Boonton Lanes and bowl two or three games. There was the old refreshment stand, the sound of all the bowling balls rolling down the aisles and hitting the pins, and the echo of a dozen different conversations filling up the bowling alley. I remember it as a most magical and wonderful era.

Ed and I actually fell of the Grand Canyon for the girl next door. For a while, it created a bit of a conflict for us. It was Ed who won Tammy’s affection with his outgoing charm. They did date for a while, but both of them decided that it was better for them to be neighborhood friends than to have a romantic relationship. Despite it all, Ed and I remained as close as brothers.

Today, Ed is married and has two sons. While we do keep in touch with Facebook, our rapport of being as close as brothers had dissipated quite a bit. Kind of sad in a way, but it’s just the way life is at times.

In memory, I can return to that magical era when Ed’s bedroom was just down the hallway from me, in the old Mabey Homestead. We would

take breaks from studying in our rooms, and go downstairs and have hot chocolate and a couple of oatmeal cookies. It was a simpler time.

The fiber, the weave, the echo of those days that we thought we’d stay young and never grow old, haunt me at times. Sometimes, I awaken at two in the morning from having dreamt of their memory. At 69 years old now, I regret not taking more pictures during that magical and mystical era.

As George Harrison sang to us all those years ago, “all things must pass.” Cherish your loved ones, that you still have with you. Hold them dear to your heart. Time and physical distance can often cause close family ties to fade. Sometimes, the good Lord will call a loved one Home to Heaven. For all that any of us really have, is this sacred moment in time. Show your dear family members the love you have for them. None of us really know what tomorrow will bring.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail. com.

Isaiah Glen Shields at Donaldson’s farm in Hackettstown

AREA - Every Halloween, at my church, the big Trunk or Treat Halloween celebration is held. It is a long-standing tradition, filled with all so much fun for children and adults alike.

Every year, 20 to 30 cars fill the parking lot of my church, such that the trunk of the cars are facing the main thoroughfare. Children, with their parents and sometimes grandparents, come from far and wide to partake of the wholesome fun and heartfilled excitement of this grand and glorious event.

Each trunk station is hosted by a church member. My mom, Janet Kemmerer Mabey, simply loved this fun-filled event. Mom cherished interacting with the children. My mom had devoted well over 25 years serving as a Crossing Guard for the school children of Lincoln Park, safely crossing them

A Most Precious and Memorable Halloween

across the street as they walked to and from school.

The Trunk or Treat of 2019 was a most cherished memory for me. For it would become Mom’s last time to partake of this wonderful church event. I think, deep in her heart, Mom knew that it was going to be her last time to enjoy the presence of the enchanting faces of all so many endearing little children.

As each child came to our little station, Mom would smile at the child, with their parent or grandparent standing close by. Mom would make a big deal about the child’s Halloween costume. Then Mom would hand the child two or three little candy bars. Most people would simply throw the candy bars into the child’s trick or treat bag, but I remember that Mom made a point to hand each child his or her candy bars.

Then Mom would simply say to the child, “God loves you very much.” And the child would smile, and Mom would look into the child’s eyes and say, “be a good boy,” or “be a good girl.” That evening Mom gave out candy bars to well over 200 children. This was a very special event that was well attended. People would come from Belleview and from neighboring towns to have their children partake of this wonderful Halloween event.

At the end of the evening, Mom only had about a half dozen candy bars left in her big basket, that was earlier filled to the brim with candy. I remember Mom looking down to the basket and tears flowed from her eyes. Mom took out her handkerchief and wiped the tears from her cheeks.

“Well, that’s over, kind of

sad,” was all Mom said as she handed me a small Milky Way candy bar. Mom took a Reese’s peanut butter cup for herself. We both ate our little candy bars. Then handed in the basket and three or four left over candy bars to one of the church Deacons.

Less than two weeks after the big Trunk or Treat Halloween event, Mom had heart surgery to replace her Aortic Valve. Sadly, the surgery was not a full success and Mom went Home to be with the Lord, the next month, two days before Christmas Day.

In memory, I return to that very special evening of the big Trunk or Treat Halloween of 2019. Mom touched the hearts of well over 200 children that night. In all so many ways, it was Mom’s farewell to all the children to whom she had safe-

Family History Increases Risk for Breast Cancer

AREA - Millions of people across the globe will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. In fact, only certain skin cancers affect more women than breast cancer within the United States and Canada.

The World Cancer Research Fund International says breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women across the globe. Belgium, The Netherlands and Luxembourg had the highest number of breast cancer cases in 2020, while Barbados and Fiji had the greatest number of deaths attributed to the disease. Some of these high case numbers may be attributed to women with family histories of breast cancer — something that increases risk significantly.

BreastCancer.org indicates that women with close relatives who have had breast cancer, such as sisters, mothers or grandmothers, are at considerably higher risk of developing breast cancer themselves. Also, breast cancer may occur at a younger age in women with family histories of the disease.

Understanding breast cancer risk is vital for women’s health.

The following breakdown, courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, can help women from all backgrounds understand their risk for breast cancer.

• Average risk: No first- or second-degree relatives with breast or ovarian cancer, or one second-degree female relative with breast cancer (in one breast only) diagnosed after age 50.

• Moderate risk: This is a somewhat higher risk that may not turn into breast cancer. It occurs when there is one or two first-degree or two second-degree female relatives with breast cancer (in one breast only), with both relatives diagnosed after age 50; otherwise,

one or two first- or second-degree relatives with high grade prostate cancer.

• Strong: Women with strong risks have much higher chances of developing breast cancer than the general population.

Conditions like having one or more first- or second-degree relatives with breast cancer diagnosed at age 45 or younger, triple negative breast cancer, primary cancer of both breasts, and both breast and ovarian cancer in the same relative are warning signs of increased risk.

It’s important for women with increased risk for breast cancer due to family history

to discuss options with their doctors. More frequent mammograms and other screening tests may be recommended, and screening at younger ages than the standard age also may be considered. Women who are at high risk may be urged to undergo genetic counseling and testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer markers.

Breast cancer can be an especially scary prospect for women with family histories of the disease. By familiarizing themselves with their risks for breast cancer, women can take the necessary steps to protect their long-term health.

ly crossed across the street, on their way to and from school.

Life is short. There really isn’t time for strife and arguments. Love one another. None of us has a guarantee for tomor-

A photo of Mom and I at the big Halloween Trunk or Treat of 2019, held at Grace Baptist Church in Belleview, Florida.

row.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail. com. Please put on the subject line: Halloween Story.

BY MEGAN ROCHE

When you talk to Jessica DonnellyKnissel, you can tell that her heart beats for any and all canines. Rescuing dogs of all shapes and sizes is one of the things that keeps her going back for more. She’s a proud canine advocate.

“When we saved the original six, I never anticipated falling in love with them the way that I did. I ended up with a beagle and she has provided me with so much joy. Since the COVID-19 pandemic and going through my own medical issues, I felt this finally gave me a reason to keep moving forward. As a human, I am able to advocate for myself and these dogs cannot. I’ve designated my whole entire being to advocating for these dogs and getting them the care they deserve,” Donnelly-Knissel shares proudly.

In February of 2022, No Puppy Left Behind was born.

“Our mission is to bring light to the public that puppy mills do exist. While we cannot save them all, we have saved 60 puppy mill survivors to date, but there are still so many more who need our help. The basic needs of the poor animals are not being met. They never know when they are go-

No Puppy Left Behind- A Woman’s Mission to Bring Safety and Shelter to Dogs

ing to have their food and water bowls filled, and some have serious medical concerns that need to be treated. If we do not intervene, and get these dogs out, they will continue to suffer in silence,” Donnelly-Knissel says.

Donnelly-Knissel and her team continue to rally behind dogs, helping to bring them to safety as soon as possible.

“I have seen firsthand just how stressed out these dogs are because they are starving, or so thirsty that when I give them water, they drink the whole bucket in one sitting and get sick,” Donnelly-Knissel shares.

The No Puppy Left Behind team is actively rescuing dogs from puppy mills. According to the humane society, puppy mills are inhumane high-volume dog breeding facilities that churn out puppies for a profit, ignoring the needs of puppies and their mothers. In most puppy mills, once a mother and father are no longer able to breed, they are often killed.

How can the public help No Puppy Left Behind? Continue to spread the word, donate toward the rescue, and even adopt one of their furry friends.

“We’ve had many people

reach out and ask how they can help, and we’ve had so many people step up to accept these precious souls into their homes…but realistically speaking? Not everyone is in a position to do so & we get that.

The outpouring support of our friends, family and community has been so heartwarming!

Without all of you, this would be way more difficult than it already is! We’re trying to get as many dogs out as possible before the winter. If you, or someone you know is looking for a new ‘furever’ friend please contact me directly.

Please share our mission to spread awareness for puppy mills, as they are far more common than people realize,” Donnelly-Knissel says.

Donnelly-Knissel has set up a GoFundMe page, www.gofund.me/7c0cfb12, where donations are being accepted for the cost of transporting dogs, medical attention, and more.

Many of the dogs who come

through No Puppy Left Behind need to be treated for raging ear infections, open wounds, nails growing into paw pads, and some have even tested positive for heartworm.

“Their stories will literally bring tears to your eyes, as we see dogs who were once completely shut down that now open up and get to enjoy life like every dog should,” Donnelly-Knissel shares.

In the end, Donnelly-Knissel knows the dogs are grateful to be saved.

“If you can donate even $5 towards our mission, or share our fundraiser, we would be forever grateful, as will these dogs. Even after all they’ve endured, they are the sweetest, kindest souls you will ever meet,” Donnelly-Knissel says.

To keep up with No Puppy Left Behind’s rescue efforts, follow them on TikTok at @ nopuppyleftbehind and Facebook at www.facebook.com/ jessica.donnelly.54

Potential Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

AREA -Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in women across the globe. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, there more than 2.26 million new cases of breast cancer in women in 2020. Such figures are sobering, but it’s important to recognize that breast cancer survival rates have improved dramatically in recent decades, providing hope to the millions of women who may be diagnosed with the disease in the years to come.

Various factors have helped to improve breast cancer survival rates, and education about the disease is certainly among them. Women are their own greatest allies against breast

cancer, and learning to spot its signs and symptoms is a great first step in the fight against this potentially deadly, yet treatable disease.

Knowing your body

The American Cancer Society urges women to take note of how their breasts normally look and feel. That knowledge is vital because it helps women recognize when something does not look or feel good to the touch with their breasts. Screening alone may not be sufficient, as the ACS notes that mammograms do not find every breast cancer.

Signs and symptoms

When women are well acquainted with how their breasts look and feel, they’re in better

Jessica Donnelly-Knissel’s beloved beagle Violet, saved from a puppy mill

Women are urged to report any abnormalities in their breasts to a physician immediately. position to recognize any abnormalities, which may or may

What to Know About Prophylactic Mastectomy

AREA - Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in American women, and is the leading cause of cancer death in less developed countries, says the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. According to Susan G. Komen, more than 680,000 breast cancer deaths occurred worldwide in 2020.

Breast cancer affects the anatomy of the breasts and can often spread to the lymph nodes. While breast cancer can affect just about any woman (as well as men), certain women are at higher risk for developing breast cancer than others. Such women include those with a family history of breast cancer and/or the presence of genetic markers called BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, according to the Bedford Breast Institute. Those women have a lifetime risk of up to 87 percent

for getting breast cancer and 53 percent for developing ovarian cancer. Other risk factors include the presence of dense breast tissue, exposure to radiation at an early age and having already had cancer in one breast.

What is prophylactic mastectomy?

In instances when breast cancer risk is particularly high, women may opt to undergo prophylactic mastectomy, also called preventative mastectomy. This is the surgical removal of one or both breasts with the intent to dramatically reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

Rate of risk reduction

The Mayo Clinic says prophylactic mastectomy reduces the risk of developing breast cancer by 90 to 95 percent among women with BRCA gene mutations. It is roughly the

same risk reduction for women who already have had breast cancer or have a strong family history of the disease and then have a breast removed.

Studies indicate that preventative mastectomy of the unaffected breast (called contralateral prophylactic mastectomy) in cases when breast cancer occurred in the other breast, when no genetic mutations or hereditary risk factors are present, has little to no effect on overall survival rate. This is a surgery only for those with very high risk.

Why isn’t risk reduced completely?

Not all breast tissue can be removed during a prophylactic mastectomy. That is because breast tissue can sometimes be found in the chest, armpit, skin, above the collarbone, or on the upper part of the abdominal wall, states the Mayo Clinic.

7 Ways to Reduce Breast Cancer Risk

AREA - Many women are concerned about the potential for developing breast cancer in their lifetimes. Breast cancer is the second-most common cancer among women in the United States and Canada. Despite that prevalence, there are ways for women to reduce their risk for breast cancer.

While it is impossible to change family history or genetic markers like gene mutations that increase breast cancer risk, the following are seven ways women can lower their risk.

1. Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.

Physical activity and monitoring calories can keep weight in check. The Mayo Clinic recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity.

Strength training at least twice a week also is recommended.

Being overweight or obese increases a woman’s risk for breast cancer.

2. Consume a healthy diet. The link between diet and breast cancer risk is still being studied. However, research suggests that a diet high in vegetables and fruit, and calcium-rich dairy products, but low in red and processed meats may lower breast cancer risk.

3. Avoid or limit alcohol consumptions. Alcohol increases risk of breast cancer, even in small amounts. For those who drink, no more than one alcoholic drink a day should be the limit. The more a woman drinks, the greater her risk of developing breast cancer, states the Mayo Clinic.

4. Undergo genetic counseling and testing. Women concerned about a genetic connection or family history of breast cancer can speak to their doctor about testing and counseling that could help them reduce their risk. Preventive medicines and surgeries might help those at elevated risk for breast cancer.

5. Limit hormone therapy. Combination hormone replacement therapy for post-menopausal women may increase risk of breast cancer, indicates the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Similarly, taking oral contraceptives during reproductive years may increase risk. Women can speak with their physicians to weigh the pros and cons of taking such hormones.

6. Breastfeed children, if possible. Breastfeeding has been linked to reducing a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer.

7. Learn to detect breast cancer. Women should get to know their bodies so they can determine if something is awry as early as possible. Early detection of breast cancer increases the chances that treatment will prove successful.

Women can embrace various strategies to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.

It is impossible to remove all breast tissue cells during surgery. Although risk reduction is significant after mastectomy, that risk cannot be eliminated entirely.

Risks associated with prophylactic mastectomy

There are some risks associated with prophylactic mastectomy, both during the procedure and afterwards. BreastCancer.org says bleeding or infection, fluid collecting under the scar, delayed wound healing, scar tissue formation,

loss of sensation in the chest, and complications while being put under anesthesia are all possible. Women are urged to carefully consider the pros and cons before opting for the surgery.

Alternatives

Prophylactic mastectomy is only one option for women at high risk for developing breast cancer. Some alternatives include:

• Ultrasounds, physical exams, and mammograms every three to six months for the rest of the

Breast Cancer...

not be indicative of breast cancer. The ACS reports that the following are some potential warning signs of breast cancer.

• A new lump or mass: The ACS indicates that this is the most common symptom of breast cancer. A lump or mass that is cancerous is often painless, but hard and has irregular edges. However, lumps caused by breast cancer also can be soft, round and tender. Some even cause pain.

• Swelling: Some women experience swelling of all or part of a breast even if they

don’t detect a lump.

• Dimpling: The skin on the breast may dimple. When this occurs, the skin on the breast sometimes mimics the look of an orange peel.

• Pain: Pain on the breast or nipple could indicate breast cancer.

• Retraction: Some women with breast cancer experience retraction, which occurs when the nipple turns inward.

• Skin abnormalities: Breast cancer may cause the skin on the breast to redden, dry out, flake, or thicken.

• Swollen lymph nodes:

patient’s life.

• Medication that can reduce risk of developing breast cancer.

• MRIs in addition to mammograms.

• Surgery to remove the ovaries, which can decrease both the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. It may reduce breast cancer risk by up to 50 percent if performed before age 50.

Breast cancer risk is higher in some individuals, which may prompt discussions about prophylactic mastectomies.

Some women with breast cancer experience swelling of the lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone.

The presence of any of these symptoms merits a trip to the doctor. Women with these symptoms should not immediately assume they have breast cancer, as the ACS notes that various symptoms of breast cancer also are indicative of non-cancerous conditions that affect the breasts. Only a physician can diagnose breast cancer, which underscores the importance of reporting symptoms to a doctor immediately.

AREA - Halloween is an en joyable holiday for all, but par ticularly for children. Kids en joy the opportunity to channel their whimsy and imagination, whether that involves choosing a clever costume or helping design the theme and scope of home decorations.

Parents, guardians and edu cators can channel the creativ ity inspired by Halloween into various craft projects.

Crafts can not only keep children busy when the “I’m bored” lamen tations inevitably turn up, but crafts also are a way to keep children off of screens. Plus, the items that children create can be used to decorate rooms in the house — helping to curb added expenses on commercial decor.

The following are some Halloween crafts children can make alone or with the help of older siblings and parents.

Halloween Craft Ideas for Kids

Jack’s slime

The toothy grins of jack-o’lanterns can be seen just about everywhere come Halloween, and the bright orange color of pumpkins heralds the start of fall. What better way to say “Halloween is here” than with a craft that can be displayed and also played with? Slime is something that’s always a big hit with kids. Here’s a recipe for slime, courtesy of The Best Ideas for Kids.

• 6 ounces of Elmer’s glue (substituting with another brand of glue may not produce the same results)

• Orange food coloring to create desired hue

• 1⁄2 teaspoon of baking soda

• 11⁄2 tablespoons of contact lens solution (one that contains boric acid in the ingredient list, as that is what causes the chem ical reaction to form slime)

East Hanover Italian American Club will host a on Sarturday October 29th

will be snacks, candy, a halloween contest and a parade for the kids. Family fun for all.

• Optional: 2 tablespoons of water added to the glue before the baking soda if you desire a stretchier slime

• Black felt or black con struction paper, cut into the eyes and mouth of a jack-o’lantern

• Small mason jar with lid

Decorate the mason jar us ing a bit of glue to stick the black paper or felt face pieces to the outside of the jar. Mix all the ingredients of the slime in a small bowl and pour into the decorated jar.

Forest spider

Take a trip to a nearby forest or wooded trail and gather up round pinecones that have fall en. Purchase brown pipe clean ers and cut four of the cleaners in half to form eight legs. Glue the legs on the pinecone and at tach several small googly eyes and two larger ones to form the eyes of the spider.

Paper roll treat holders

Rather than discarding the tubes inside of paper towel or toilet paper rolls, let kids trans form them into monster craft treat holders. They’ll be perfect

for party favors or even to give out to neighborhood trick-ortreaters. Cover the bottoms of the rolls with masking tape so treats won’t fall out. Paint the outside of the cardboard rolls and let dry. An alternative is to cover the rolls in colored paper for less messy fun. Then use markers or paper cut-outs to

form faces of the monsters. Fill the rolls with treats, then stuff a piece of tissue paper in each top to add even more personal ity to the creations and hide the treats inside.

Ghostly leaves

Make a truly eco-friendly craft on Halloween, with ghosts made out of leaves, eliminating

the need to use extra paper.

Paint large leaves with white paint. On the narrow-most point on top of the leaves, paint black eyes and mouths. When completely dry, scatter on a ta ble or sideboard for some scary fun, or use double-sided tape to stick to windows and doors.

Halloween and Trick-or-Treating

AREA - Come October, people across the United States and various other countries partici pate in a tradition that has been around for some time. Trickor-treating, which involves costumed children going doorto-door in the neighborhood asking for candy, is a staple of fall. While the exact origins of Halloween and trick-or-treat ing are hard to pin down, his torians believe that Halloween came from a holiday known as Samhain, which ancient Brits and Celts once celebrated in recognition of the onset of win ter. During Samhain, revelers believed that the world of the gods and ghosts was open and that these beings played tricks on the mortals. In turn, mortals

lit bonfires and wore costumes so they would be unrecog nizable to the ghosts. Unlike the lighthearted activities of today’s Halloween, ritualis tic sacrifices and other more sinister events also took place 2,000 years ago on Samhain. Once Christianity took root in formally Celtic locales, the tide of Samhain celebrations turned and a focus was placed on celebrating the holy and dead in more meaningful ways on All Saints Day (November 1) and All Souls Day (November 2). In fact, Halloween, which comes from All Hallows Eve (hallow meaning “holy”), of fered an opportunity to come together and pray, dress in cos tumes of hallowed saints and

evil spirits, and act out the bat tles of good versus evil. Poor individuals also were known to travel to the homes of more for tunate individuals and receive pastries known as “soul cakes” in exchange for a promise to pray for that homeowner’s de ceased relatives. The tradition of “souling” eventually gave way to trick-or-treating. Histo ry.com says it is unknown when the term “trick-or-treat” came into the vernacular. However, the phrase has at least been in use since 1951, when the popu lar “Peanuts” comics published a Halloween edition. The title “Trick or Treat” also was used on a Disney cartoon featuring Donald Duck in 1952.

Jaznelly

Claudia Ciprianoxon

Victoria Williams

Dulce Alavez

ENTERTAINMENT

BY DANA JACKSON

Q: I really enjoyed the musical TV series “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.” What is the cast doing now that the show is over? -F.C.

A: Rachel Bloom, who wrote, produced and starred in the CW network’s musical comedy “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” from 2015 to 2019, has several upcoming roles. She’s joining the second season of HBO Max’s “Julia,” which is based on chef Julia Child’s origin story on public television in Boston. Bloom can currently be seen in the new comedy “Reboot” on Hulu. She’s also written a memoir, “I Want to Be Where the Normal People Are,” in which she gets candid about her awkwardness of growing up in Manhattan Beach, California, and her battle with mental illness.

Donna Lynne Champlin, who played Bloom’s bestie on “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” most re-

BY DEMI TAVERAS

“Blonde” (NC-17) -- In this new biopic based on the novel of the same name, audiences get to see a different side of Hollywood legend Marilyn Monroe. Ana de Armas (“Knives Out”) portrays the woman first known as Norma Jeane, as she evolves into the iconic actress we’ve come to recognize. Bobby Cannavale (“Boardwalk Empire”) stars as Joe DiMaggio, Monroe’s second husband, and Adrien Brody (“The Pianist”) stars as Arthur Miller, her third husband. While the talented de Armas has received praise for her performance, the film itself has received criticism for its excessive nudity. But, with biopics like these, it’s far too tricky to please everyone. Check it out for yourself when “Blonde” premieres Sept. 28. (Netflix)

cently co-starred in Showtime’s “The First Lady,” as Michelle Obama’s (Viola Davis) senior advisor. Vincent Rodriguez III, who played Bloom’s main crush, Josh, on the show, most recently starred in Prime Video’s romantic comedy series “With Love.” Santino Fontana, who played Greg, has had a recurring role on “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” which is also on Prime Video. He’s also had a stellar career on Broadway, including the starring role in “Tootsie.”

***

Q: Is it true that Pat Sajak is leaving “Wheel of Fortune”?

Will it continue with a new host?

What about Vanna? -- G.B.

A: After 40 years of spinning the wheel on the hit primetime game show “Wheel of Fortune,” Sajak recently hinted on “Entertainment Tonight” that “the end is near,” but he gave no specific end date. The show’s new exec-

utive producer Bellamie Blackstone sees the program, one day, celebrating its 50-year anniversary and beyond. Whether or not Sajak and longtime co-host Vanna White retire before then remains to be seen.

***

Q: I saw that one of my all-time favorite shows, “M*A*S*H,” recently celebrated 50 years since it premiered on TV by posting a current photo of stars Alan Alda and Mike Farrell together. Are they the only surviving cast members from the series? -- N.R.

A: Believe it or not, four classic television shows all debuted on CBS during the same week in September 1972: “Maude,” “The Waltons,” “The Bob Newhart Show” and “M*A*S*H.” Set during the Korean War, it starred Alan Alda as the wisecracking surgeon Hawkeye Pierce and Wayne Rogers as Trapper John McIntyre. Rogers’

character would be spun off into his own show a few years later, and Mike Farrell would then join the cast as B.J. Hunnicutt.

You might recall that “M*A*S*H” was originally an Oscar-nominated film starring Donald Sutherland and Elliott Gould as Hawkeye and Trapper John, respectively. Sally Kellerman played “Hot Lips” Houlihan, and Robert Duvall was Frank Burns in the film -the same roles Loretta Swit and Larry Linville would memorably play on the series version.

Of the ensemble cast, Swit, Gary Burghoff (“Radar”) and Jamie Farr (Klinger) are all still with us. Rogers passed away in 2015, while Linville passed in 2000.

Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail. com, or write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

Couch Theater

“Hocus Pocus 2” (PG) -The sequel to the 1993 Halloween favorite “Hocus Pocus” premieres on Sept. 30, right on time for the Halloween season.

The Sanderson sisters are back causing mayhem in Salem, as Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy and Sarah Jessica Parker all reprise their roles from the first film. The sisters are conjured by high school students Becca and Izzy, who unite with others in the town in an attempt to stop the deranged trio of witches.

The direct-to-streaming movie doesn’t fully excel at bringing back the magical feel of the first film, even with its musical numbers and returning characters, but Disney just can’t help themselves when it comes to remakes and sequels. (Disney+)

“Ambulance” (R) -- Jake

Gyllenhaal and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II star in this movie directed by Michael Bay (the “Transformers” films and “Armageddon”). Gyllenhaal and Abdul-Mateen play two adoptive brothers, Danny and Will, who agree to execute a $32 million bank heist together. The heist doesn’t go exactly as planned, when LAPD officers swarm the bank to stop the brothers. Will and Danny make a narrow escape on an ambulance, unbeknownst to an EMT (Eiza Gonzalez) onboard treating a police officer. With four people now stuck in an ambulance on the run, it’s hard to tell who will make it out alive. Premiering Sept. 30, “Ambulance” is pure Michael Bay, with big-budget action scenes every step of the way. Premieres

Sept. 30. (Prime Video)

“Reasonable Doubt” (NR) -- Defense attorney Jax Stewart (Emayatzy Corinealdi) loves to work with criminals; she welcomes the challenges that come with these clients. Jax tries to balance her career with being a mother and a wife but difficulties with her husband lead to a trial separation. While figuring out how to sail these murky waters, Jax deals with the recent rekindling of a friendship with Damon (Michael Ealy), a client she once defended, as well as a new, perplexing murder case on her hands. The style of this series is quite like “Scandal” and “Little Fires Everywhere,” which makes sense with Kerry Washington serving as executive producer. Premieres Sept. 27. (Hulu)

Gloria La Forgia

“Your Neighborhood Expert”

expert in Morris and Essex

“The East Hanover Specialist”-to

homes in her hometown of East Hanover than

other

has built The La-Forgia Group, consisting of herself, two buyers agents and her assistant. Business has grown rapidly, largely as a re sult of referrals and returning clients.

In this ever-changing market, all the more reason you will need a seasoned agent to help you through the process. We were seeing offers anywhere from $10,000-$200,000 above list price. This is due to the fact there is low inventory and a surplus of buyers. It has calmed down a bit. However, it is still a sellers’ market!

Giving back to the community is always important. Gloria sponsors local baseball, football and soccer leagues along with contributing to the local church bulletin and various other charities. Weichert Realtors and its agents contribute yearly through various fundraisers to the American Breast Cancer Society.

Gloria’s clients can count on her to guide them through each step of a real estate transaction and will receive quick responses to all forms of messaging. She understands that a real estate transaction may be the largest financial agreement clients will ever make and is extremely dedicated to helping them through this technical process. In addition to Gloria’s knowledge of her market, she is an internet specialist and a formidable negotiator, all of which helps her sellers achieve faster sales at optimal prices. Gloria is an award winning marketing specialist - which is of the utmost importance when selling your home. Videos are the way to go when listing your home and nobody does it better than our team of professional photographers and videographers - 89 Productions.

“My goal is to make each and every transaction as seamless and stress free as possible.

Homes Safely!!

East Hanover and the surrounding towns since 1994”.

“Wheel of Fortune” Host Pat Sajak . Photo Credit: Depositphotos

Adrien Brody and Ana de Armas star in “Blonde.” Photo Credit: Courtesy of Netflix (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

NJ HALL OF FAME

JASON ALEXANDER - PERFORMIMG ARTS

Jay Scott Greenspan (born September 23, 1959), known professionally as Jason Alexander, is an American actor, comedian, film director, and television presenter. He is best known for his role as George Costanza in the television series Seinfeld (1989–1998), for which he was nominated for seven consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards. His other well-known roles include Phillip Stuckey in the film Pretty Woman (1990), comic relief gargoyle Hugo in the Disney animated feature The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), and the title character in the animated series Duckman (1994–1997). He has also made guest appearances on shows such as Dream On (1994), Curb Your Enthusiasm (2001, 2009), and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2019). For his role in Dream On, he was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series. He eventually won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Song in 2020 for “The Bad Guys?” On Brainwashed By Toons.

Zoe Hernandez (born June

she competed as a

an American artistic gymnast.

of the

the U.S.

Five” at the

events, Hernandez earned the

the

her debut year as a senior

the

medal on the balance beam.[4] She returned to training in late 2018 and expressed interest in making a comeback to earn a spot on the U.S. women’s gymnastic team for the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, but she did not qualify for the Olympic Gymnastics Trials.

Outside of gymnastics, Hernandez has appeared on season 23 of Dancing with the Stars in 2016, where she won the competition along with partner Val Chmerkovskiy. Hernandez hosted the first season of American Ninja Warrior Junior as the on-course reporter and starred as Valeria in the Nickelodeon animated miniseries Middle School Moguls. She is the author of two books, I Got This: To Gold and Beyond, a New York Times Bestseller and She’s Got This, a children’s book.

In 2005, Lev Grossman of Time called Martin “the American Tolkien“, and in 2011, he was included on the annual Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world.

MARY ROEBLING - ENTERPRISE

Mary Gindhart Herbert Roebling (July 29, 1905 – October 25, 1994) was an American banker, businesswoman, and philanthropist. She was the first woman to serve as president of a major US bank. Mary Gindhart was born in West Collingswood, New Jersey on July 29, 1905. Mary’s parents were Isaac Dare Gindhart Jr. and Mary (Simon) Gindhart, and was the eldest of four children. Mary’s father Isaac was the president of the Keystone & Eastern Telephone Company, and mother was a singer and pianist. She attended public schools in Moorestown and Haddonfield. She married musician Arthur Herbert in her teens (15), in 1920, and had a daughter, Elizabeth, in 1921 . Arthur died in 1922. She then worked in Philadelphia at an investment house while taking night classes in business administration and merchandising at the University of Pennsylvania. Her second husband, was Hugh Graham. They married in 1923. She divorced Graham and married Siegfried Roebling in 1932 (a son of John A. Roebling II. Siegfried died in 1936 and left her Trenton Trust stock. She took his seat on a Trenton Trust Company board. She was elected president of the board on January 21, 1937, and became the first woman to serve as president of a major American commercial bank. She served as either president or chair of the board until 1972 when the bank merged with National State. She then chaired the combined banks until 1984.

Over the years Mary was requested to serve in various public service capacities including Citizen’s Advisory Committee on Armed Forces Installations, Atlantic Congress for NATO, White House Congress on Refugee Programs, International Chamber of Commerce’s 17th Congress, and Citizens Advisory Council to the Committee on the Status of Women. Through several administrations, Roebling served as a civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army. She was made president of the new Army War College Foundation in 1978. That year she also founded Women’s Bank N.A. in Denver, the nation’s first chartered bank established by women, and chaired its board until 1983. From 1958 to 1962, she was governor of the American Stock Exchange. She was their first woman governor.

In a 1965 speech, Mrs. Roebling said: “As a woman who for years has competed in the business world, I would be the first to agree that the American woman has almost unbelievable economic power, but American women, like women of all civilized nations, do not use the influence their economic power gives them.”

She died on October 25, 1994, of renal failure at her home in Trenton, NJ.

LAURIE HERNANDEZ - SPORTS

women’s gymnastics team

GEORGE R.R. MARTIN - ARTS & LETTERS

George Raymond Richard Martin (born George Raymond Martin; September 20, 1948), also known as GRRM, is an American novelist, screenwriter, television producer and short story writer. He is the author of the series of epic fantasy novels A Song of Ice and Fire, which were adapted into the Emmy Award-winning HBO series Game of Thrones (2011–2019).

BART OATES - SPORTS Bart Steven Oates (born December 16, 1958) is a former American football player in the National Football League (NFL) for the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers. He played center for the Giants from 1985 to 1993 and with the 49ers from 1994 to 1995. He was a member of the Giants teams that won Super Bowls XXI and XXV and the 49ers team that won Super Bowl XXIX

A Chilly Day Dish with a Kick

Picture in your mind a warm bowl cupped in your hands, defrosting your fingertips after you just walked inside from a chilly afternoon. The bowl is heavy, full of hearty vegetables and spicy peppers that in just a few short moments will overwhelm your palate.

You dive in with a spoon, savoring every flavorful bite as you dip down to the bottom of the bowl searching for more to slurp up with every spoonful. Onion, red bell pepper and even corn all blended into not only a vegetarian meal but a chili-lover’s paradise. It’s got the spices to make you say, “wow” but the smoothness that reminds you of something your mom once made when you

Imagine a sparkling tray full of delicious hors d’oeuvres is placed within easy reaching distance. You extend your arm forward and pick just one single appetizer out of the array of colorful cuisine. It’s creamy and soft, yet crunchy and savory. It was nearly the perfect bite. Your mouth is watering and your eyes open wide. You look down at your hand. The remnants of a bite-sized mushroom is in pieces across your palm. A smile stretches across your face following the flow of the napkin.

This is what guests can feel as they enter your house with a delightful nosh like Blue

were young.

You throw your sweater to the side of the couch as your body temperature begins to rise. You start to feel your energy return as you spoon a second helping into your bowl for round two.

Not only does this recipe for Chipotle Veggie Chili hit you with a wide array of balanced flavors, but there is a surprise hint of citrus added toward the end – lime juice.

Just to add a little more texture and vibrance to this dish, it can be topped with your favorite garnishes like guacamole, sour cream, jalapeno slices and cilantro.

This Chipotle Veggie Chili is simple to make, needing just

one pot throughout the entire cooking process. It simmers for about 25 minutes while you unwind from a long day.

So next time you need a pick-me-up after a chilly day outside, give this one a try. The savory aromas and wholesome consistency make this chili a 10-out-of-10 and a crowd favorite.

Find more recipes perfect for cooler weather at Culinary.

net Chipotle Veggie Chili

Servings: 6-8

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, chopped 5/8 teaspoon sea salt, divided 1/4 teaspoon pepper, divided 2 garlic cloves, minced

1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 can (14 ounces) diced fire-roasted tomatoes

1 can (14 ounces) red beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (14 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup vegetable broth

1 can (7 ounces) chipotles in adobo sauce

2 cans (15 ounces each) sweet corn with liquid

2 limes, juiced guacamole (optional) sour cream (optional) jalapeno slices (optional) cilantro (optional)

In large dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Stir and cook 5 minutes until onion is translu-

cent. Add garlic and red pepper. Stir and cook 8 minutes until soft.

Add tomatoes, red beans, pinto beans, broth, chipotles in adobo sauce, corn, remaining salt and remaining pepper. Simmer 25 minutes, stirring

A Bite-Sized, Bacon-Flavored Appetizer

Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms. This recipe uses fresh ingredients and is baked until melted together to create an appetizer no partygoer will forget.

It’s got chunks of blue cheese, fresh chives, crisp onions, earthy mushrooms and, of course, bacon. You can’t forget the bacon.

This perfectly mixed snack is something nearly everyone can enjoy. From little ones loving the bacon bits on top to the hard-to-impress visitors, this dish screams bite-size perfection for all.

These mushrooms are easy to make and a light bite for

anyone looking for a quick snack. It’s so easy to make for a big hungry crowd as it yields 24 servings. Need more snacks? Double it and get the party started with a delicious finger food that will melt in your mouth.

Make your party appetizers something to talk about. Just don’t talk with your mouth full!

Find more recipes for party hosts, families and scrumptious appetizers at Culinary.net

Blue Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms 24 large fresh portabello mushrooms

1 carton (8oz) spreadable chive

and onion cream cheese 1 cup (4oz) crumbled blue cheese 4 green onions, chopped 2 garlic cloved, minced 3/4 cup bacon bits, divided Preheat oven to 375°F.

Remove stems from mushrooms and place mushrooms on greased (or parchment paper) baking pan.

Mix cream cheese, blue cheese, onions, garlic and 1/4 cup bacon bits in a small bowl.

Spoon cream cheese mixture into mushroom caps.

Bake for 18-22 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.

Note: Recipe adapted from Taste of Home

A Traditional Breakfast with a Twist

The same bowl of cereal can get boring after eating it for breakfast day in and day out. You may find yourself looking for something new and exciting to start your whole family’s morning off on the right foot.

Kids can be picky when it comes to breakfast foods, but this recipe for Sausage Fresh Toast Roll-Ups is a quick and easy way to fill their bellies with a taste of several flavors they may already love. It’s a perfect way to fill your morning with joy, no matter if the hours ahead are filled with work, school or play.

A sizzling sausage link wrapped with French toast, it combines a favorite breakfast protein and traditional deliciousness in one little roll. Drizzled with warm maple syrup at the end, even adults can’t

help but indulge in these breakfast bites.

This is a quick dish too, using few kitchen utensils, which makes for more time in the morning to enjoy the little things that matter most like moments with family before rushing out the door. This recipe can also be made when your family is craving breakfast for dinner.

Find more breakfast recipes at Culinary.net

If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups Servings: 12 12 sausage links 2 eggs 2/3 cup milk

3 teaspoons almond extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 6 bread slices, crust removed, cut in half 3 tablespoons butter syrup

In skillet, cook sausage links according to package directions. Set aside.

In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, almond extract and cinnamon.

Dip bread slice in egg mixture. Wrap bread slice around cooked sausage link, pressing seam to keep from unrolling. Repeat with remaining bread slices and sausage links.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter.

Place roll-ups in skillet, seamside down, and cook until all sides are browned, approximately 10 minutes.

Drizzle with syrup.

Starting a new school year, whether in the classroom or online, brings excitement for kids of all ages. Opportunities to see friends, make new acquaintances and explore new areas of interest abound.

Along with the exciting times can also come early mornings with hectic moments getting ready, including making sure that lunches and snacks are packed for the day ahead. Keep fresh grapes from California on hand as an easy, fresh staple ready to drop into lunches and pack as a portable snack - no need to peel, cut or slice.

Heart-healthy grapes are brain food too, and a healthy choice any time of day to help fuel young minds in the classroom or after school.

Grapes also pair well with other healthy ingredients to create fun and tasty snacks such as these Peanut Butter Grape Bites. Involving your kids in the process can be beneficial, and is as simple as asking them to complete one of several child-friendly tasks: rinsing grapes, measuring ingredients or, perhaps the most fun part, dipping grapes in peanut butter, coconut, dark chocolate or almonds.

Providing children with ways to help in the kitchen can give them a sense of accom-

while teaching them important skills like math and how to follow instructions.

find more back-to-school

for kids and families, visit GrapesFromCalifornia.

occasionally, until chili has thickened.

Squeeze lime juice into pot; stir. Serve with guacamole, sour cream, jalapeno slices and cilantro, if desired. (Culinary. net)

Food for Busy School Days

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