Hackettstown August 2022 by My Life Publications..Maljon LLC

No. 18 Vol. 8

My Life Publications • 1-800-691-7549

August 2022

Hackettstown Church Welcomes New Senior Pastor

by Elsie Walker hen asked what she brings to the Trinity UMC (United Methodist Church) on Main Street, Rev. Erica Munoz, shared, “I think I bring a fresh start.” Aptly, a sermon series at the church is called “Reset”. Munoz shared that it reflects where the church is. There will be the start of some new things, but also the continuation of traditions. That start of new things includes Munoz herself. At the beginning of July, she became the new lead pastor of the church. Recently, she shared a little bit about herself and her background. Growing up, Munoz attended Newton United Methodist Church and noted that church had a central role in her life. “I have always been involved in the church. Church was never an extra; it was what we did.” When announcing her appointment to Trinity, it was noted that as a youth, her congregation and her parents helped support

her desire to connect with Christian friends through activities in the UMC’s Skyland District; that led her to participating in a variety of programs and in making a connection with Trinity UMC. She participated in its youth programming such as the Appalachian Service Project (in which people go to Appalachia for a week and help repair and make homes safer and warmer for people in one of the poorest parts of this country). The Trinity website shares, “She traveled for three summers with the youth of Trinity and their leaders to do this wonderful work that is still such an important part of Trinity’s mission and formative to her faith journey.” Throughout her life, the connection with Trinity UMC would deepen and expand in many ways, including finding friendship and leadership in the church’s late senior pastor, the Rev. Dr. Frank Fowler. Munoz’s educational background includes studying music at West Virginia

The Arc of Warren County to Host Charity Golf Classic at Hawk Pointe

he Arc of Warren County will host a Golf Classic on September 12, 2022 at Hawk Pointe Golf Club in Washington. Funds raised at the event will support The Arc Foundation. The Arc Foundation was established in 1998 to provide a continuum of funding to help assure the financial security of The Arc programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Norman Worth, Managing Partner and President of WRNJ Radio and longtime supporter of The Arc of Warren County, will emcee the event. The Shotgun start is 10 a.m. with a Scramble format and registration opens at 8:30 a.m. The cost to play golf is $200 and includes breakfast, 18 holes of golf, afternoon barbeque, open bar and access

to raffles and prizes. Several sponsorship levels are available. Please visit arcwarren. org to learn more and/or register. The Arc is a national organization that serves individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their family members since 1950. The Arc of Warren is one of 700 chapters of The Arc and serves more than 1,100 people annually for the past 68 years. Programs include residential group homes and supervised apartments, day services, community-based supports, advocacy services, recreation and summer camp, Special Olympics training, early intervention and a wide variety of additional social services. For questions, please call Annamaria Lalevee at The Arc at 908-223-0884 or alalevee@arcwarren.org.

Wesleyan College. However, she found she enjoyed church more than the extracurriculars. In particular, she enjoyed children’s ministry. She noted that she knew ministering would be an important part of her future. Her Trinity biography shares that Munoz went on to receive a Bachelors of Music Education, then “attended Boston University School of Theology where she earned a Masters of Divinity. She also obtained a Certificate in Youth and Young Adult Ministry from the Boston Theological Institute.” Munoz was ordained an Elder in Full Connection [in the UMC] in 2012. Since then, she has held a variety of positions in the UMC. Reflecting on her most memorable pastoral experiences, Munoz noted that they have had to do with those close to her. “It’s been an amazing opportunity to be a pastor and friend at the same time,” she shared. She has married family and friends, baptized their babies and done funerals. “Just being able to connect with the people I love in a very deep way,” is what Munoz said made those moments so memorable. Munoz is married with two children. She and her husband, Matt, are parents to Madelyn age 9, and Braelon, age 6. Rounding out the family is a two-year-old Goldendoodle named Hazel, who the family got during COVID-19, and the most recent additions are a pair of adopted kittens, brothers Leo and Smokey. Munoz loves the beach, movies, camping, having family and friends over and singing. “If there’s a choir, sign me up,” she shared. Munoz feels that one way she connects with others is that, like many, she has a great deal on her plate; she’s a wife, mother, sister, aunt, and minister. “I’m a mom. I live to balance,” she said. She feels she offers a sense of encouragement in how people can balance things and bring up their children in the Christian way. She shared, “I’m someone they can look at [and see] I’m

Rev. Erica Munoz is the new senior pastor at Trinity United Methodist Church.

doing the best I can, like they are.” Reflecting on herself, Munoz noted that she is very open and, “I think what you see is what you get with me.” Munoz feels her strength as a minister is her ability to span generations, communicate across them. One moment she could be down on the floor playing with babies and another she’s running an adult bible study. Also, she loves people and how, “We can come from different places and spaces and love one another in spite of all of it” Munoz will tell you that she is “living the dream” being at Trinity UMC. When asked if there’s something she’d like to share with the community, Munoz noted that “The community is more than Trinity. It’s Hackettstown and beyond. We’re in this together. I think that regardless of the connection to Trinity, I’m a pastor for the community.” She noted if people are in need, have questions, or just want to say, “hi” to come by the church.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • August 2022 • Page 3

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Centenary University Launches New Concentration in Equine-assisted Service

entenary University’s Equine Studies Department will launch a new concentration in equineassisted services for the fall semester. The concentration will prepare graduates to provide therapeutic riding services to children and adults with cognitive, physical, and social-emotional disabilities. The program will also cultivate leadership skills necessary for graduates to step into administrative roles in the largely nonprofit field. Centenary is a higher education member of PATH International, which leads the advancement of professional equineassisted services to support more than 53,000 special needs individuals, including nearly 6,000 veterans, through a variety of equine-assisted services. For many years, the University has offered a therapeutic riding instructor training program, which is an eight-credit course sequence that allows both matriculated and non-degree students to fulfill all hands-on requirements for PATH’s certified therapeutic riding instructor (CTRI) application and prepare for the certification exam. The addition of a degree concentration and minor in equineassisted services is an expansion of this wellestablished instructor training program.

Karen Brittle, assistant professor of equine studies and director of Therapeutic Riding At Centenary (TRAC), said the University’s new concentration will address a nationwide shortage of certified therapeutic riding instructors and administrators. “There is an ever-expanding need for trained professionals in this field, which was founded in the late 1960s and early 1970s and continues to grow rapidly,” she said. “As our visionary founders reach retirement age, there is a need for a next generation of industry leaders to carry the EAS industry forward. This degree will put our graduates on the leadership track.” The University is already well known in therapeutic riding. Centenary University Professor Emeritus of Equine Studies Octavia Brown ’08 HA, Ed.M., D.H.L., a trailblazer in the field, is a founder of the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, the precursor to PATH International, and the former director of TRAC, an accredited adaptive riding program that provides equine-assisted services to individuals with disabilities. Through TRAC’s veterans programming, the University also provides the benefits of therapeutic riding to military veterans and their family members. One of the top college equine studies

programs in the country, Centenary University has produced countless leaders in the field, as well as numerous nationallyranked riding teams. Academically, the University has a competitive track record for student acceptance to selective veterinary schools. The University’s riding teams also have an impressive history, placing first at the 43rd ANRC National Equitation Championship this spring—Centenary’s third national title in nine years.

Brittle said the University is proud of its reputation in equine-assisted services: “When we send young people out into the world to work in this industry, the more related experience they can have, the better. It’s not easy to provide these services. It takes a lot of maturity and experience to do it well. Having additional educational credentials will make Centenary graduates more prepared to serve the industry.”

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Are You Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired? Exploring Another Treatment Option for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

hronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome (CFIS) also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) is a disabling and poorly understood illness that is becoming more widespread in Western countries. CFIS is a term used to describe a myriad of neurological, neuromuscular, and immunological abnormalities. The initial onset of CFIS consists of flu-like symptoms including fever, sore throat, tender lymph nodes, chills and extreme fatigue. The chronic manifestations of CFIS always include disabling fatigue but can also include muscle and joint pain, sleep disorders, headaches, hypo- or hypersensitivities, cognitive disorders, depression, malaise, anxiety, irritability, confusion, weight fluctuations, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, muscle fatigue, worsening PMS, visual disturbances, tachycardia, paresthesias, dry eyes, dry mouth, night sweats, skin rashes and decreased sexual desire. The etiology of CFIS is still unknown, but the suspected cause is a viral infection. Some researchers believe that CFIS is actually a neurological response to a viral infection. Since there are no absolute markers or lab tests to confirm the illness, chronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome is often diagnosed by symptoms alone and by process of elimination.

For the same reasons, western medicine has no treatment for chronic fatigue. Instead, doctors prescribe individual medications to deal with each of the associated symptoms. As with any illness, traditional Chinese medicine treats the individual on a case- bycase basis. A diagnosis is made based on the individual’s symptoms as well as their tongue and pulse presentations. The patient’s tongue is inspected and 6 pulses are felt on each wrist in order for the Acupuncturist/ Chinese Medical Practitioner to determine the diagnosis. Since chronic fatigue manifests differently in each person, this method of diagnosing is superior. The treatment plan is then formulated based on the individual’s diagnosis. As you can see in the chart- one Acupuncture treatment plan will address all of the individual’s symptoms as well as the illness as a whole. This is known as a root and branch treatment. Addressing the root cause of the chronic fatigue is addressing the illness as a whole while treating the branch aims to relieve all of the symptoms associated with the illness. A single Chinese herbal formula can also be prescribed to treat both the root and branch of the chronic fatigue syndrome. For more information about Acupuncture and Chronic Fatigue Immunodeficiency Syndrome, call Kearstin R. Tripi, L.Ac at Mt. Olive Acupuncture & Wellness 973-527-7978.

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Centenary University Grad’s Dream-meeting with Steve Madden is Everything

By Jillian Risberg is passion for fashion and creativity led EB Sarr to make an impromptu decision -- and potentially pivotal career move for the 2022 Centenary University graduate. That’s because Sarr applied for ‘A Day in the Life With Steve Madden,’ which invites college students to network in New York with executives of the fashion firm, learn more about business operations, and it included a surprise meeting with Madden himself. “It was probably one of the best experiences I’ve ever had,” says the artist/future entrepreneur, who was encouraged to go for the program by his business professor Cheryl Veronda. He got hands-on experience in how things were manufactured, what Madden’s work culture is like and how the fashion company works. According to Sarr, the legendary designer and entrepreneur was down-to-earth, attentive to what the students were talking about and wanted to answer everybody’s questions. “You wouldn’t expect somebody of that stature to be so cool,” he says, and that Madden was surprised he was from Harlem and the only guy in the group. “So he gave me a little more attention.” Sarr had a good rapport with the guy who interviewed

him. “So I guess I lucked out, and I think my professors threw in a good word,” he says several days later, human resources reached out. After two rounds of interviews, he is hoping to receive a job offer from Steve Madden, Ltd., in account services. He calls the Madden opportunity the best of both worlds. “It’s a bridge between retail and corporate so I would get a feel for every department,” says the 22-year-old. “It’s all about results at the end of the day. And a huge family; everybody talks to everybody, it’s like home.” He enjoyed the collaborative environment, where ideas were thrown around. “Seeing everyone smiling, I was like, ‘Is this actual work.’ I’m hoping I get accepted and they do give me this role,” Sarr says the position offers a flexible schedule and would combine his interests, while giving him the freedom to pursue music. “It’s the right place for me.” And he is proud of his perseverance to follow his dreams (pursue a creative career), so freshman year the artist transformed the poems he used to write his whole life into songwriting and music. “It’s an honor to be from Harlem (the epicenter of fashion), ‘cause it’s the home of the Harlem Renaissance, the Apollo, many great things. It always has some kind of impact on how I see things (grew a love for music and that

EB with Steve Madden at the designer’s (34th street) NYC showroom.

whole space) and I appreciate things much more,” he says getting to have the college experience was amazing. It’s been a tough road for everyone through COVID and the pandemic. continued on page 7

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Dream-meeting... continued from page 6 “I grew up Muslim so I know everything that goes on may not be the greatest but I have to keep a positive light inside me” Sarr says. “Knowing how hard my family worked to put me in the position I am in today is going to keep me going.” In the artist’s down time (which isn’t much) he enjoys gym workouts, listening to music and to self-reflect. He is grateful to Madden for giving him a chance. “Everyone’s happy for me, my school’s proud of me, I’ve been receiving a lot of love and I appreciate it, so thank you for the ‘A Day in the Life With Steve Madden’ opportunity,” Sarr says they all want to see him succeed; nothing but good things. The 22-year-old says he is putting in all the hard work now, including “pursuing

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the Steve Madden thing” to get where he needs to be so he doesn’t have to worry later. And learning how to be more independent as an adult, making the transition from under his parent’s wing. “I’m my own man but in the blooming process; my music and everything is going well,” the artist/future entrepreneur says whether he’s giving back to his community or touching a heart through a note, he sees himself having an impact on people. “You can live a long life and not do anything or touch anybody. So as much time as I have on this Earth, I want to make people feel good,” says Sarr. To follow EB’s journey, @ebsarr (Instagram) or @TheEBSarr (Twitter).

What’s happening in your school or organization? Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, graduation? Have a human interest story or something you would like to share? Email us at editor@mylifepublications.com

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DASACC Sponsors Washington Borough’s 1st Annual Pride Day Conry, Council person Sonia Ron, and DASACC Executive Director Jill Zinckgraf. Attendees of all ages and diverse backgrounds participated in family activity tables and dancing with Sammy the Dancing Unicorn featuring DJ Cadillac Kid from Lehigh Valley House Heads. Local businesses participated by displaying inclusion stickers “ALL FAMILIES WELCOME HERE” along with special activities and giveaways. Local business owners commented: “We were happy to be a part of such a successful event. Our sales for that day showed how many people came together for this amazing festival! #LoveIsLove” – T. PorterOwner, KRP2 Swirl-N-Chill Ice Cream Lounge As part of our ongoing efforts and commitment to expand diversity, equity, and inclusion in our community, DASACC looks forward to organizing future LGBTQIA++ Pride events. If you are interested in participating in our 2023 organizing committee or volunteering for future events email: PrideInfo@dasacc.org

n Saturday, June 25th, 2022, The Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Warren County (DASACC) sponsored its First Annual Washington Borough Pride Day. Celebrating Diversity in Families. The event brought over 400 participants, 30 vendors and a host of community support from local businesses. The day included educational and statistical information from DASACC, CasaShaw, The Warren County Health Department, and the Hunterdon Health Care Partners LGBTQ division. Community members commented: “I really enjoyed it and hope there are more events like it. The BEST event I have been too—and my FIRST Pride which made it even better!” - C. S.Attendee “As a life-long member of the LGBTQ Community in Warren County, today I found both comfort and support. This event was something I never thought I would see here. I am so proud of our community and look forward to many more.” – V. H. - Attendee Guest speakers included Deputy Mayor Ethel

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Sales: Joe@mylifepublications • Editorial: editorial@mylifepublications Please e-mail all press releases and calendar information to editor@mylifepublications.com. Advertising in My Life Publications is affordable and effective. We are a “family friendly” publication and therefore reserve the right to accept only advertisements that appeal to the entire family; the final determination of which is made by My Life Publications. Views expressed in My Life Publications are those of the respective columnists and writers, and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, or My Life Publications. Advertising is open to anyone desiring to reach the public and is subject to approval, revision and/or rejection at any time by the publisher. Many of the articles are paid for by the author and are in effect advertisements. Publication of any advertisement does not constitute, either implied or inferred, an endorsement of services, products or businesses advertised.

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Tom Kitchen Memorial Golf Tournament Slated for October

e are holding the Tom Kitchen Memorial Golf Tournament on October 7, 2022 at Minebrook Golf Course. Those of you not familiar with our organization, we started a Scholarship Fund in Tom’s name at Hackettstown High School. Each year graduating Seniors at Hackettstown High School will be awarded money to help pay for college. Not only are we focusing on helping the community but we are raising awareness of Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer). He passed away from Bile Duct Cancer in October 2013, after fighting for a little over two years. Mr. Thomas R. Kitchen Jr. was a true Hackettstonian. He was born and raised in Hackettstown. Tom was a graduate of Hackettstown High School and a three sport letter winner in Football, Wrestling and Track. Tom also proudly served his country in the US Navy from 1968-1970. He was stationed in Norfolk, VA. and served nine months in Vietnam on the USS Leary. Some of the work that Tom did for our community is: Co-founding the Tiger Athletic Association. Today, the Association supports

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youth football, softball, baseball, wrestling, cheerleading, field hockey and basketball. In 1993 he launched the Hackettstown Girls’ Fastpitch Softball League to serve as a feeder program for the high school. He took special delight in working as a security guard for all Hackettstown High School sporting events. Teamed up with a friend to build the football field snack bar and donating his own time to build the softball field dugouts. Was member of the American Legion. Volunteered on the Hackettstown Fire Department and was past Chief. We understand the past few years have been tough on many families and businesses and we will continue to support the community, give scholarships and raise awareness. This year’s slogan is “Tee Up For a Cure”. Please help us to honor his memory by participating in this upcoming event. To register for the golf outing visit www. trkitchenmemorialfund.com. For questions or more information, please email Allison Kitchen at trkitchenmemorialfund@yahoo. com.

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Kenn Hill’s Lucky Break Leads To Hall of Fame Induction

t was 1979 and Kenn Hill, a cop with the Cinnaminson Police Department at the time, and who had a yearning to be a stuntman on the side, had become friends with Bob Minor, an established stuntman. One day Minor invited Hill to join him to watch some filming of the movie Skatetown USA, which Minor was involved with. Hill gladly accepted the invitation. Skatetown USA was a movie about a roller disco competition. Hill kept out of camera range on the set happily enjoying the scenes unfold with stars Scott Baio and Flip Wilson. Then a couple of scenes came up where Wilson needed a stand-in. “That’s when I got lucky,” said Hill, who has been a regular at the western theme park Wild West City in Byram Township as a cowboy and “Marshal” since 1995. “Flip Wilson’s stand-in didn’t show. The Assistant Director saw me in the background and asked me if I would fill in. And I did.” From that humble beginning launched a career spanning over four decades as an actor and stuntman on numerous TV shows and movies, including Die Hard with a Vengeance, starring Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson, The Italian Job with Mark Whalberg and Edward Norton, Law & Order, New York Undercover and Magnum PI (the original series with Tom Selleck - NOTE; Hill’s license plate is MAG PI). His scenes have included car chases, pedestrians fleeing speeding cars, and other ‘lifethreatening” activities. Hill recently - finally - got his due as an actor and stuntman when he was inducted into the Masters of Martial Arts Hall of Fame. The gala event took place in Atlantic City.

“It feels mighty good,” said the 79-year old Hill, who retired as a policeman in 1992. and who splits time at homes in Byram and Cinnaminsom. “There’s no other feeling like it.” What made the occasion even more exciting was that his son, Kenn Hill, Jr., was also inducted the same night for his efforts in the martial arts community. “What a thrill to be inducted with him,” said Hill. “We were both sky high.” “What an awesome event and made even more special than any other that I have been part of,” said the 57-year old Kenn Hill, Jr., who has been honored several times in the past. “To be recognized on Father’s Day Weekend with my dad is unlike anything else! It really was a humbling experience. To be able to stand with my dad and share this moment with him was truly a privilege.” Kenn Hill, Jr., who grew up in Cinnaminson but now lives in Sicklerville, continued, “My dad’s induction was long overdue. He has been active in the TV and motion picture industry for a long time and this was welldeserved.” Hill, Sr., who has been married to his wife Shirl for 59 years, thanks three people in particular who helped him along the way: Bob Minor, John Hagner and Lee Diebold. At Wild West City, Hill is one of the most popular Marshals and Cowboys at the park. He is always chatting it up with visitors and is in more selfies and photos than can possibly be counted. “I like talking to the folks here,” he said simply. They may not realize it but behind Hill’s infectious smile folks are talking to a true Hall of Famer.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • August 2022 • Page 11

NorwesFest Exceeds Fundraising Goal in Beneﬁt for Local Families

orwescap hosted its 2nd annual daylong fundraising event, NorwesFest, on June 25 at Ort Farms in Long Valley, and it was a day to remember. This unique fundraiser featured two different events in one big day, offering something for everyone – the daytime

Family Fun Day buzzed with excitement for kids of all ages delivering plenty of farm/outdoor activities, while the evening Sunset Soirée evoked a garden party for adults, complete with a farm-fresh gourmet dinner, local adult beverages, and live music by the 16-piece SummerSwing Orchestra.

The outdoor celebration/ fundraiser took place at Ort Farms in Long Valley, NJ and drew quite a crowd – over 350 in all. Major sponsors for the event included Valley National Bank, NJM Insurance, Mutual of America, Shoprite, and PNC Bank. Provident Bank provided a team of nearly

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20 hardworking volunteers for the day. This year’s NorwesFest hit a new record for both number of attendees and funds raised. The support generated from this event will help address people’s most urgent needs, like food and housing, as well as help them work towards a future where they and their families can not only survive, but thrive. “Norwecap is going to keep on doing all that we can to help our communities - one person at a time, one family at a time - to reach their goals. Events like NorwesFest support those needs, and one person at a time becomes over 30,000 in New Jersey,” said Mark Valli, CEO of Norwescap. Originally established in 1965, Norwescap has evolved into a comprehensive nonprofit organization providing

services to over 30,000 individuals annually in Morris, Hunterdon, Warren, Somerset and Sussex counties. The organization offers a broad array of services that support and empower people with low to moderate income, helping them move away from the crisis of poverty and towards a future where they can thrive.

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142 Main Street Chester, NJ 07930 Cell: 908-914-7944 Office: 908-879-7010 etattersall@weichert.com www.ericatattersall.com

Weichert Realtors Broker-Sales Person, GRI, SFR Weichert Chairman of the Board Club 2020-21 (Top 1% of Weichert Realtors) NJAR Circle of Excellence 2020-21 Platinum, 2016-19 Gold, 2013-2015 Silver, 2011-12 Bronze R DE CT UN TRA N O C

10 Arrowhead Road Washington Twp List Price $550,000

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3 Hickory Lane Washington Twp List Price $550,000

Immaculate 4 bedroom 2 1/2 bathroom colonial on corner level lot. Kitchen remodeled with granite counters, maple cabinets, stainless steel appliances (ex ref.), recessed lighting, and pantry. Family room with wood-burning fireplace and built-in bookshelves. Enjoy coffee in your beautiful sun-drenched sun room with wall of windows and sliders to patio to enjoy meals. Hardwood floors on second floor. Crown molding in many rooms. Master bedroom remodeled bathroom including tile surround walk-in shower with glass enclosure. Home well-maintained roof 2012, rebuilt chimney 2012, four zone air conditioning 2011. Public water and public sewer. Great community and top schools!

Immaculate 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath colonial with full basement. Remodeled kitchen features Cherry cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, tile backsplash, recessed lighting, double wall oven and separate breakfast area. Open foyer leads to spacious living room with wood-burning fireplace featuring granite and wood surround. Family room with brick surround fireplace and tons of natural light. Spacious dining room with chair rail molding. Hardwood floors in living room, dining room, and bedrooms. Laundry room conveniently located on main floor. Sliders from kitchen lead to beautiful large deck and step down to patio. Beautiful garden and private backyard. Master bedroom with walk-in closet. Master bathroom with radiant heat, granite counter, double sink and glass enclosed shower with tile surround. Remodeled guest bathroom with stone counters and double sink. Public water and sewer. Central air. Freshly Painted

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6 Burtt Street Netcong List Price $349,900

Charming three bedroom, one and one half bathroom colonial with finished walkout basement. Enjoy get togethers with friends on your deck or patio with fire pit. Open front porch great to enjoy your morning coffee. Eat in kitchen with oak cabinets, SS appliances, recessed lighting, and pantry. Family room with vaulted ceiling and great natural light. Living and dining room with hard wood floors. Main bath with updated vanity and tile surround tub. Spacious walk out basement with recreation area, office, laundry and storage. Large attic with tons of storage. Only one block from Direnzo park, tennis and basketball courts, and lake.

71 Sandpiper Drive Allamuchy Twp Sale Price $560,100 Stunning three bedroom, three bathroom, two car garage ranch home with full finished walkout basement. Remodeled kitchen features custom cabinets, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, subway tile backsplash, center island, recessed lighting and breakfast area. Kitchen opens to family room with brick surround gas fireplace, vaulted ceiling, and sliders to oversize deck with beautiful scenic views. Large dining room great for entertaining. Primary bedroom with walk-in closet and full remodeled bath featuring tile surround, glass enclosed stall shower and double sink. Remodeled guest bathroom and second bedroom on the main floor. Gleaming hardwood floors through main level. Laundry conveniently located on main floor. Lower level features In law suite with bedroom, full updated bathroom, living room with gas fireplace, office (with Murphy bed), and kitchen. Tons of storage space. Great private backyard with serene views. Enjoy your evenings in your hot tub after a long day of work. Open front porch to enjoy your morning coffee. Exterior freshly painted.

Norwescap’s programs address immediate needs and build strategies for long term success, focusing on education, employment, financial empowerment, health and nutrition, housing and community development, and volunteerism and civic engagement.

ST JU LD SO

90 Knob Hill Road Washington Twp Sale Price $480,000

Attn: Buyers and Golf enthusiasts! This is the one you’ve been waiting for. Center Hall Colonial in desirable Hastings Square, a Single Family and Townhome mixed community. Long Valley School system (West Morris Central HS). Amenities include a community pool, playground & tennis courts. Adjacent to Minebrook Golf course. Enter the community through picturesque Hastings Square community to your next home at 90 Knob Hill. Open entry way into EIK that opens to separate formal Dinning Room. Cozy up with the living room fireplace. Generous sized Master Bedroom with full bath and walk-in closet. Generous storage with pull down stairs to roof attic and separate-second walk-in attic over the garage from mid-level entry. Large deck off EIK and separate patio with Hot tub. Shed for outdoor furniture and lawn equipment. The full finished lower level boasts extra space an office and rec room, and family room. Close to shopping, restaurants, & commuter routes and a mile to historic Hackettstown, Centenary College and Theater.

ST JU LD SO

22 Saxton Drive Hackettstown Sale Price $539,900

Immaculate Ellington model with 5 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths and a full finished basement. Open kitchen with center island, breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, recessed lighting, and ceramic tile floors. Breakfast area offers great natural light. Kitchen opens to family room with hardwood floors. Large dining room opens to living room. Living room features gas fireplace with marble and wood surround and recessed lighting. Entryway with hardwood floors leads to upper level with five bedrooms. Primary bedroom with sitting area, 2 large walk-in closets and remodeled bathroom. Primary bathroom features soaking tub, tiles surround walk-in shower, and double sink with granite counters. All bedrooms with plenty of closet space. Guest bathroom remodeled with granite counters and cherry wood cabinetry. Large basement with office, recreation room, game area and large storage room with workshop. Laundry conveniently located on main floor. Enjoy summers on your large composite deck and fenced yard with lots of privacy. Smart recessed L.E.D lights in kitchen and basement. Two car garage with additional storage room and separate entrance outside.

ST JU LD SO

24 Green Hill Road Chester Sale Price $1,300,000

28 Bowers Drive Allamuchy Twp Sale Price $631,150

Colonial with four floors of living totaling 3000 plus sf of living space!! Amazing mountain views!! Spacious kitchen features granite counters, maple cabinetry, and ceramic tile floors. Breakfast area w/sliders to a large 2 tiered deck with scenic views. LR off of kitchen with a gas fireplace. Wood floors through first level up through large main hall on second floor. Master bedroom with vaulted ceilings and 2 large walk in closets. Walk in closets in 2 of 3 other bedrooms. Third level has a finished walk up bonus room great for an office or extra bedroom with beautiful built in book shelves and great natural light. Finished basement with kitchenette, featuring granite counters and tons of cabinet space, and a full bathroom....great for entertaining. Sliders off finished basement walk out to a lower deck with great views and awning. Panther Valley is just minutes from Rt 80 and 46. Public water, public sewer, natural gas forced hot air and central air.

Impressive 6 BR 5 1/2 BA colonial w over 6800 ft. of living space w basement. 3.7 beautifully situated acres at 1030 foot elevation, the highest in Chester Twp. Enjoy amazing Eastern views from your 85 foot composite deck. Bright open kitchen featuring maple cabinets, granite counters, tile backsplash, rec lighting, breakfast bar, center island, and SS appliances- Jennair 6 burner stove, Subzero refrigerator & Wolf double wall oven. Breakfast area w sliders to deck w motorized pergola and lighting package great to enjoy the evening sky. Home features 5 WBFP -2 gas line equipped. HWF through most of main level. FR w two-story ceiling, open and bright, with brick surround fireplace & entrance to deck. LR w wood and marble surround FP, crown molding, & entrance to deck. Library features built-in bookshelves and elegant decorative moldings. Open two-story foyer leads to second level with amazing mountain views off your cat walk. Leisure room, featuring radiant heat floors, terrific for parties. Au pair suite on main floor with bedroom and full bathroom. Second level features 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. MBR w FP and 2 WIC. MBA features jetted tub, separate stall shower, and gorgeous updated vanity with double sink. Beautifully updated bathrooms on second floor. Basement features FP, game room, exercise room with full bath. Great potential In law suite with sliders to lower level backyard. 3 car garage. Whole house generator. New deck, roof & HVAC. Pella double pane windows.

Want to know what your house is worth in today’s market? Visit my website: www.ericatattersall.com for a FREE Comparative Market Analysis.

Page 12 • August 2022 • Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Former Hackettstown and Phillipsburg Schoolteacher a Born Writer

By Alexander Rivero hile teaching in Phillipsburg, author Jordan Sonnenblick had a student whose brother was diagnosed with cancer. The girl’s mother, worried about what her daughter was going through and noticing that, in her sulking and silences, she was bottling up much of her emotions, came up with an idea. She suggested that Sonnenblick write a book with her daughter’s situation in mind to see if it would prompt her to express herself. For Sonnenblick, who dreamed for all his life to write professionally, it was the spark he needed. “I was one of those people that always wanted to be a writer,” he says, recalling the conversation that pushed his life in a new direction. “This child’s mother asked me to write a book for her daughter, and so I wrote one.” That book—Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie—was published in 2004 by DayBlue Insights, and follows protagonist Steven Alter, a 13-year old boy living in New Jersey, as he struggles to cope with his younger brother Jeffrey’s leukemia diagnosis. Sonnenblick is, to this day, thankful for the opportunity to have written Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie. Aside from the exhilaration that naturally accompanies any creative endeavor, he notes the special jolt he felt during the time he spent working on this first book, hoping to have an immediate impact on his student, as well as anyone else who might be going through similar moments of difficulty in their lives. DayBlue Insights went out of business shortly after

publishing his book, and for almost a full year, Dangerous Pie was without a home. What happened next shocked Sonnenblick. “The mother of an editor at Scholastic,” he says, “stumbled across the book at the Moravian Bookshop over in Bethlehem [Pennsylvania].” The storied bookstore is the oldest in the United States, and a pilgrimage site for book lovers from all over the country. It also happened to be one of the last, if not only, bookstores still carrying Sonnenblick’s book. “All of a sudden I have a Scholastic editor calling me, seeing if I can be in Scholastic’s offices in Manhattan by Tuesday.” It was a Thursday when Sonnenblick received the call, and he was in Orlando with his family. He and his family raced out of Disney, arranged to return home as soon as possible, secure a literary agent, and be at Scholastic headquarters promptly on Tuesday morning—all in the course of a weekend. “It was a busy weekend, but it all worked out,” Sonnenblick recalls, laughing at the idea that his first book went from being published by a small press, to continued on page 13

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • August 2022 • Page 13

Born Writer...

continued from page 12 orphaned, to becoming a surprise new member of one of the premier children’s book publishing firms in the world. Sonnenblick, needless to say, never looked back. He went on to write 11 more children’s books, including titles such as Dodger for Sale, Curveball: The Year I Lost My Grip, and most recently, The Boy Who Failed Show and Tell.

Considering whether there is a running theme with all of his books, Sonnenblick is direct and emphatic. “Yes, absolutely,” he says. “The running theme in all of my books is that life is tough and unpredictable, but that in the end people tend to come through. For any given person, the people around you tend to come through.”

When asked to pick the book he is most proud of writing, Sonnenblick is hesitant to respond at first. The conversation has been loose and fluid up until now. He finally offers that the question itself is impossible for him to answer, given that each of his books was inspired by a different person he knew personally whom he wanted to, as he says, “give a virtual hug.” “I just can’t separate the book from the person for whom I wrote it, from the person I had in mind as I was working on it,” he says. “Each book, like each of those individuals, is unique.” Sonnenblick’s writing process is not so much regimented as it is an all-out assault on whatever ideas have at any moment taken hold of his creative engines. He says he throws himself into his work “until the book’s dead,” he says, “or I am.” Generally speaking, however, he will spend about two weeks to a month on research, followed by a detailed outline on paper, and then the first draft. The rest of the year, he will dedicate it to revisions and working with his editor. Sonnenblick gives a great deal of credit for his writing prowess to a beloved creative writing teacher he had when he

was a student at Stuyvesant High School in lower Manhattan—Pulitzer Prizewinning author Frank McCourt. McCourt’s final year as a teacher happened to be Sonnenblick’s senior year of high school. Specifically, seeing McCourt publish his instant classic Angela’s Ashes convinced Sonnenblick that he, too, could one day write a novel. “If he could do it, this man that I had known personally and seen every day, then I could do it,” he says. Other writers he admires include New Jersey native Judy Blume—who greatly influenced Sonnenblick’s most recent books, The Boy Who Failed Show and Tell and The Boy Who Failed Dodgeball— as well as legendary scribe Kurt Vonnegut, who taught Sonnenblick that he could write about painful and serious subjects with humor, “and that the funny parts make the sad parts sadder, and the sad parts make the funny parts funnier.” Sonnenblick lives with his wife and two children in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and continues to write and speak to students. For more information on him or his books, please visit his website, www. jordansonnenblick.com.

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Page 14 • August 2022 • Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

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Yours truly, studying at my desk during my sophomore year of high school. From that little desk, in my bedroom, I wrote dozens upon dozens of little news articles and feature stories for the old Lincoln Park Herald. I am immensely grateful to Mr. Nicholas Marino, for his belief in me as a writer.

was a tough editor, but he also had a heart of gold. He was an old school editor, all the way. Now at 68, I look back at the people who helped me in life. For the most part, most of them have gone on to be with the Lord. It’s too late to tell them thank you. I guess that’s one of the side effects of growing old. If there’s someone who has reached out a helping hand to you, please do consider letting them know just how much you appreciate their kindness. The sands of the hourglass are forever flowing, the clock is always ticking, the pages of the calendar get torn away far too quickly, and the years pass in a seemingly blink of an eye. Appreciation and thankfulness are virtues that are more precious than gold. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ hotmail.com. Please put on the subject line: More Precious Than Gold.

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By Richard Mabey Jr. n September of 1966, I began the eighth grade at Chapel Hill School in Lincoln Park. It was a most magical and enchanting time for me. Once again, I was able to walk to school in the early morning. There was the chirping of the song birds, the scurrying of squirrels climbing up and down the trees that adorned Main Street. There was a certain joy and happiness of once again walking to school with the old gang. For just a few months ago, I had been recovering from a full-year battle with dreaded Rheumatic Fever. And, all through seventh grade, I had tutors. For that entire year, my feet never touched the ground. But in that year, something very special happened in my life. From both, my hospital bed at times and my bed at home, I began to write feature stories for the old Lincoln Park Herald. Mr. Nicholas Marino, the Editor-in-Chief of the old Lincoln Park Herald, took an interest in my writings. While I was battling Rheumatic Fever, I would write stories about Boy Scout Troop 170. My mom would type them up and hand deliver them to Mr. Marino at his little newspaper office, located close to my home. During my year-long fight with Rheumatic Fever, I wrote dozens of little news and feature articles for Mr. Marino. And, he graciously printed them all. But if it wasn’t for my mom, typing them up for me, I would have never had my start in life as a writer. I do not think that I ever chose to be a writer. I think God called me to be a writer. There were way yonder too many coincidences in my journey to find success in the writing arena. I was to write news articles and feature stories for the Lincoln Park Herald, for many years. Mr. Marino

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • August 2022 • Page 15

Project Self-Suﬃciency Seeks Donations of New School

roject Self-Sufficiency is seeking donations of new school supplies for distribution to more than 500 children and teens during the month of August. This year, organizers are suggesting that donors sponsor a backpack for students in need; a $25 donation will purchase and fill a small backpack with the key supplies needed for elementary school students while a $30 donation will purchase and fill a large backpack with key supplies for middle and

high school students. Monetary donations, which allow the agency to purchase supplies in bulk, will be gratefully received at https://www.projectselfsufficiency.org/ school-supplies. For those who prefer to shop, a wish list of items has been prepared, including new backpacks, crayons, pencils, erasers, glue sticks, scissors, pens, spiral notebooks, and loose-leaf paper. Backpacks in solid and neutral colors are preferred. Backpacks and supplies will be distributed to more than 500 students at a festive Back

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Page 16 • August 2022 • Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

New Help for Veterans and Active Military from Project

hese unprecedented times are only getting more concerning and contributing to a higher level of anxiety, particularly among our Veteran population. The constant streaming of mostly discouraging news, along with a reduced ability to freely mingle with others to keep spirits up, makes it difficult for many military and veterans to maintain their morale. A Warrior’s Welcome, Transitioning and Remembering, is a military and veteran’s community, wanting to help those who have given so much. A new secure place for Veterans to come together to help each other through issues they are having, is being launched by Project Help. “The meetings will be facilitated by Reno Schwind, a Marine Corp veteran and resident of Sussex County,” said Sandy Mitchell. During a veteran’s military service, their base, ship or shore station is a place to call home – a safe haven to share in the company of some of the finest men and women with a mission in common. A Warrior’s Welcome aims to create that same spirit of brotherhood at its weekly gatherings. A Warrior’s Welcome will consist only of active service and veterans, and will provide a safe place for all veterans to communicate and engage with other veterans on a level that is simply not possible in most social networking environments. A Warrior’s Welcome gathering encourages informal discussions on a wide range of interests – from problems

they are dealing with, local community concerns, uplifting stories and humor and other topics as the group determines as favorable at the time. Quite often the discussions are about issues these warriors are trying to handle. With a number of members suffering from combatrelated and other health issues, AWW’s weekly network support gatherings provides a safe environment where veterans can discuss the situations they face each day. As deemed necessary and desired, there will be experts in the field join the meeting. Once every other month there will be a webinar that is open to all to help with issues, answer questions and bring in experts to supply real answers to the problems faced by our warriors. In support of the Military/Veteran community at this difficult time, they invite you to join A Warrior’s Welcome via the following link: https://projecthelp.us/warriorswelcome/ AWW will quickly evolve into a hybrid event, meaning it will be virtual and live at the same time, so more service men will be able to participate. This networking group is for men only. There will, in time, be a group for women only. All questions can be directed to Reno Schwind at renoschwind@gmail.com or Sandy Mitchell at Sandy@ ProjectHelp.us. Need an urgent response? Call

Reno Schwind, Marine Corp veteran

sandy@973-875-2068 Project Help is a grass roots 501c3 organization whose mission is to support and serve military and veterans in times of need. Through their hardship fund, they are able to provide grants to veterans and military in crisis situations. The need for volunteers, board members and donors is massive. “You can visit our website to learn more about our mission and how you can get involved” said Sandy Mitchell, founder and Executive Director. https://projecthelp.us

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • August 2022 • Page 17

Master Summer Meals with an Apple and Mandarin

kip boring dishes and instead dive into a sweet, satisfying macaroni salad that’s perfect for enjoying al fresco. With fresh ingredients and appetizing flavor, this Apple and Mandarin Macaroni Salad is more than just a side – it’s a meal on its own. Grilled chicken breast is complemented by mandarin oranges and the sophisticated sweetness and crisp texture of Envy apples. Named America’s No. 1 apple for taste, crispness, aroma and appearance, according to an independent sensory test by Forward Agency, the apples are a delightful way to enhance your favorite dishes. This recipe calls for firing up the grill to cook chicken to juicy perfection, mixing your own homemade macaroni salad and dicing up a beautiful apple, making it an ideal dinner option for summer evenings at home. Visit EnvyApple.com to find apples at a grocer near you. Apple and Mandarin Macaroni Salad 2 thinly sliced chicken breasts 1/2 package cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot 1 lemon, zest only 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 can (10.7 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained, juice reserved 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 20 turns fresh cracked pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided water 1/2 pound macaroni 1 Envy apple, diced Allow chicken breasts to sit at room temperature 20 minutes. Mash softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, chopped shallot, lemon zest, lemon juice, 3 tablespoons reserved mandarin juice, chopped parsley, salt and pepper. Set aside. Preheat grill or saute pan to high heat. Season chicken breasts with drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper, to taste. Grill chicken breasts until internal temperature reaches 165 F. If using saute

pan, cook 2 minutes on each side then finish in 400 F oven 5-10 minutes. Allow chicken to cool then dice into small chunks. Bring medium or large pot of salted water to boil. Add macaroni and cook until tender. Drain and pour hot noodles into large mixing bowl.

Gently stir in cream cheese mixture until noodles are well coated. Let cool slightly. Add diced chicken, apples and mandarin oranges; stir to combine. Serve warm or chill in refrigerator to serve cold. (Family Features)

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(8-10 people)

$338.25 -77.80 SAVINGS 23%

$121.10 -24.22 SAVINGS 20%

260.45+tax

96.88+tax

TAKE OUT • DELIVERY • CATERING WING IT!

FAMILY COMBO

1 Large Cheese Pizza 1 Order Wings, 1 Order Mozzarella Sticks & 1 2-Liter Soda

1 Large Cheese Pizza Fried Calamari, Baked Ziti, House Salad w/ choice of Dressing & 1 2-Liter Soda

$46.80 - 11.23 SAVINGS 24%

$51.80 - 12.95 SAVINGS 25%

35.57+tax