Bentley Commons at Paragon Village Celebrates 20 Years
By Steve SearsBentley Commons at Paragon Village celebrates its 20th anniversary in September.
Originally a family-owned community when unveiled in 2003, the facility was purchased by Kaplan Development Group, LLC in 2015.
Dawn Duffy, Bentley Commons at Paragon Village Executive Director since December 2022, said the anniversary celebration will be a wonderful event.
“We are looking forward to celebrating with residents, families and staff - anybody who has played a hand in our success or has been a part of our community in any way over the last 20 years,” Duffy said. “We are going to have amazing food and cocktails, live entertainment, a photo booth, and we’ll be offering tours to show people some of our updates and upgrades since the last time they visited our campus. Our residents are going to be very active participants that evening, because we are again celebrating our wonderful community that we have built here at Paragon Village. It is really going to be a special night for our guests and the Paragon family.”
Bentley Commons at Paragon Village has occupancy for 170 residents living in three different, distinct neighborhoods that address varying levels of care for its seniors. There is independent living, where residents live
independently minus a nursing component, with amenities including a full-time activities staff, a variety of trip options and assorted other activities; assisted living, including nursing aide hands-on assistance available around the clock, in addition to on-site occupational and physical therapy with an exercise physiologist, and a full time activity staff making sure that the residents are staying engaged and active; and finally, the Rose Lane memory care for those who are suffering with memory and dementia related illnesses, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
According to Duffy, when current or prospective residents (and their family members) of Bentley Commons at Paragon Village enter its doors, their concerns and questions are taken seriously and addressed with compassion. “That is our primary goal, and I believe that the community speaks for itself,” Duffy said. “I think that the warmth that everyone feels when they first walk in the door is very important to us. We take great pride in cultivating a very welcoming, home life environment. And again, what sets us apart is that we’re able to customize what every individual needs, including their level of support. We want our families to know that their loved one is in good hands with us at Paragon.”
One of those needs is the activity realm. Duffy said, “We are really looking forward to further expanding the activities
Parenting Seminars Offered at Hackettstown Free Public Library
Parents and guardians will soon get some extra help with common parenting problems, courtesy of the Hackettstown Free Public Library and Project SelfSufficiency.
Starting on Friday, July 28th, and continuing every Friday until the end of August, Project Self-Sufficiency will be presenting a seminar and discussion group at the library focusing on common parenting challenges, from disobedience to mealtime. These five, two-hour seminars are part of the “Positive Parenting Program.” _
“It’s a seminar series we are really pleased to be able to provide for our patrons. Project Self-Sufficiency is generously donating their time to make this happen. We can’t thank them enough,” _stated Hackettstown Free Public Library Director Jerry Galante.
Attendees will be able to listen to the presenter, discuss with other parents, and even receive take-home workbooks with practical exercises and reminders of the session’s suggested strategies.
The schedule for the programs is as follows:
• Friday, August 18 at 10:30am – _Managing Fighting and Aggression
• Friday, August 25 at 10:30am – _Developing Good Bedtime Routines
“Even the best parents could use a little help sometimes. It is nice to know we can provide that here at the local library,” _Galante said.
Please see the library’s calendar of events for more deatils and registration - https://hackettstownlibrary.org/ calendar.
A free Hackettstown library card is available to anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Hackettstown. Apply in person or go to https://hackettstownlibrary.org/services/ library-cards/
The Hackettstown Free Public Library is located at 110 Church Street.
For more information, call 908-852-4936 or email info@ hackettstownlibrary.org
piece to include a stronger focus on general wellness, movement, and physical activity. This year, we instituted a new program with an exercise physiologist called Fox Stronger Living. This new initiative is designed to motivate our residents to stay as active as possible, both mentally as well as physically. We want to focus on stimulating and strengthening our residents in all possible aspects.”
Bentley Commons at Paragon Village is located at 425 Route 46 East in Hackettstown. Visit www. bentleyatparagonvillage.com or call 908-498-0100 for more information.
A New Smile in One Appointment
General & Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental implants can help with all of these issues. They can provide comfort, stability, increased chewing efficiency, and improved self-esteem. Overall health improvement is another result reported by people soon after implant treatment is completed.
For some people, there comes a point when they say to themselves, “OK, its time I did something with my teeth.” Reasons for this epiphany can vary greatly, and might include: frustration with constant pain, bleeding gums, a smile that they are ashamed of, inability to chew and eat, or dentures they just can’t wear.
Dental implants can be utilized in many configurations, but this article focuses on the process where all teeth are removed in one jaw (upper, lower, or both), 4 to 6 implants are placed, and teeth are attached to them. This process goes by many names: Teeth In One Day, All-On-Four®, Same Day Smile, and the list goes on and on.
4 to 6 months later after your gums have healed.
Dr. Goldberg treats entire families, from toddlers to seniors. Services
These Teeth In A Day processes have revolutionized implant dentistry. Although more expensive than dentures, it is less expensive than traditional full-mouth implant reconstruction. Costly and timeconsuming grafting is usually avoided. Furthermore, pain levels are significantly decreased. The overall number of visits to the dentist is drastically reduced, too.
New Patient Special
$149 Cleaning, Exam, Full Set of Films
But is it true that all this can be accomplished in one appointment: removal of teeth, placement of implants, and attachment of new teeth? Yes! We do this all the time. After initial records are taken at one or two noninvasive appointments, years of pain, dissatisfaction, embarrassment, and other negative feelings are gone in just a few hours at your only surgical appointment. It truly can be life-altering for some people: we see it time and time again. It should be noted that these are temporary teeth: the final teeth will be fabricated approximately
Its important to understand not everyone needs this advanced implant procedure. It may be appropriate when all remaining teeth require removal, but oftentimes people leave my office after a consultation with a list of other options that help to save their teeth!
Who should perform dental implant procedures? Only well-qualified dentists who have had extensive training in implant dentistry, and specifically these full-mouth implant procedures. I’ve practiced implant dentistry for almost 30 years, and I also teach these techniques to other doctors learning to become proficient with dental implants and full mouth procedures.
At Morris County Dental Associates, all treatment is performed in one location:
there is no bouncing between offices. In fact, myself and my team perform so many of these procedures we’ve built a surgical suite within my practice in order to deliver exceptional implant care to our patients. To learn more about Teeth In One Day, please view the special videos I’ve created. Click on the red tab on the right side of my website at MorrisCountyDentist. com and view as many of these educational videos as you’d like. Feel free to also call our office for a free consultation.
About the author: Dr. Ira Goldberg has been performing implant procedures for 28 years. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant Dentistry, a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He performs all phases of implant dentistry at his office in Succasunna, NJ. He lectures to dentists in the field of implantology. For a free consultation, including a free 3-D scan (if necessary), please call his office at (973) 328-1225 or visit his website at www. MorrisCountyDentist.com Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist, and also a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.
Dr. Goldberg is a leading expert on dental implants. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry, which is a degree held by only 1% of dentists worldwide. Whether you require a single implant or complex full-mouth rehabilitation, a free consultation with Dr. Goldberg should be considered.
Dr. Goldberg treats entire families, from toddlers to seniors. Services include cleanings, check-ups, fillings, Invisalign, dentures, cosmetics, and more! He and his staff enjoy the long-term relationships they build with their patients.
dentures, cosmetics, and more! He and his staff enjoy the long-term
The Healing Touch: How Acupuncture Benefits Pediatric Conditions
Acupuncture, an ancient healing practice that originated in China, has gained widespread recognition for its efficacy in addressing various health conditions in adults. However, its potential benefits for pediatric patients have also been gaining attention in recent years. This article explores how acupuncture can be a gentle and effective complementary therapy in treating various pediatric conditions, enhancing the well-being of our youngest patients.
Understanding Acupuncture:
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. These points, known as acupuncture points, are believed to be interconnected along pathways called meridians, through which the body’s vital energy or “Qi” flows. By stimulating these points, acupuncturists aim to restore balance and promote natural healing within the body.
Safety and Gentle Approach:
One of the primary reasons why acupuncture can be suitable for pediatric patients is its non-invasive nature. The needles used in pediatric acupuncture are extremely thin and gently inserted, minimizing discomfort during treatment. Furthermore, skilled acupuncturists are experienced in working with children and can create a comforting environment to ease any anxieties.
Pain Management:
Acupuncture has demonstrated its ability to provide effective pain relief in various conditions. For pediatric patients, this is particularly relevant, as children often face discomfort due to issues like musculoskeletal problems, headaches, or chronic conditions. Acupuncture can help alleviate pain and improve their overall quality of life.
Respiratory Conditions:
Pediatric respiratory conditions, such as asthma and allergies, can be challenging to manage. Acupuncture may be used as an adjunct therapy to conventional treatments, helping to reduce symptoms, enhance lung function, and decrease the frequency of asthma attacks or allergic reactions.
Gastrointestinal Issues:
Digestive problems are common in children, ranging from colic in infants to irritable bowel syndrome in older kids. Acupuncture can aid in soothing gastrointestinal discomfort and promoting better digestion, contributing to improved nutritional intake and overall growth.
Behavioral and Emotional Disorders:
Pediatric behavioral and emotional disorders, such as anxiety, ADHD, and depression, can significantly impact a child’s life. Acupuncture can be used to address the underlying imbalances and promote emotional stability, enhancing the child’s capacity to cope with stress and
emotional challenges.
Immune Support:
Children are susceptible to frequent colds, infections, and immune-related issues. Acupuncture can help bolster a child’s immune system, making them more resilient to illnesses and reducing the need for antibiotics in some cases.
Neurological Disorders:
In some instances, acupuncture has been used as an adjunct therapy for certain neurological conditions in children, such as cerebral palsy or epilepsy. It is essential to work collaboratively with healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care and safety.
Acupuncture is a time-tested healing modality that can offer a gentle and effective treatment approach for pediatric patients. By addressing a wide range of conditions, from pain management to respiratory issues and emotional challenges, acupuncture complements conventional medical care, enhancing the overall well-being of children. As with any medical intervention, it is crucial to consult with qualified practitioners and healthcare providers to tailor treatments to the unique needs of each child. With this holistic approach, the potential benefits of acupuncture can be harnessed to provide a better quality of life for our young ones. For more information call Mount Olive Acupuncture and Wellness 973-527-7968
Hackettstown Free Public Library is the Place to Be… and the Numbers Prove It
While some meeting places and businesses have seen their customer numbers dwindle since the pandemic, the same cannot be said of the Hackettstown Free Public Library. Attendance in the building is nearly 30% more than the same time last year, and the circulation (the number of books, movies, etc. checked out) is up almost 20%. Even new library card registrations this year are almost double what they were last year.
Library Director Jerry Galante credits this surge to his staff and the programs available at the library.
“I am blessed to have a welcoming and friendly staff,” he said. “People love coming in to browse what’s new or even say hello to the person working the front desk. It’s a really nice atmosphere. Our Friends group and the grants we’ve received have allowed us to offer some unique programming this year. I think that helps draw people in.”
Galante also noted that the library’s increased presence on social media has been a factor in the library’s reach into the community. This includes features on the library’s very own YouTube channel.
“We’ve recorded some programs for people to view later,” said Galante. “So, if they can’t make the program inperson, they can always watch it on our YouTube channel from the comfort of their couch.”
To wit, one of the recent programs through the library, “The Tyrannical Booth Family,” a lecture about John Wilkes Booth, his family, and the Lincoln assassination hosted by Dr. Peter Lubrecht, has reached over 10,000 views on the Hackettstown Free Public Library YouTube channel.
“That’s just an incredible number of views,” said Galante. “Very exciting to know that our patron base is growing in myriad ways.”
The library has a number of interesting adult programs scheduled for this fall that should continue the trend of people visiting. Happening over the course of the fall is the “Art and Craft of Writing” series. This is a group of six programs that looks at the process of writing from different angles, from fiction and graphic novels to screenwriting and poetry. It is hosted by professionals in the business, including author Maryann McFadden and screenwriter and actor Steven Kampmann. This series is sponsored by a grant from the Warren County Cultural and Heritage Commission. In September, accomplished artist and musician Joseph Coco will be at the library to discuss his fifty-year painting career. October’s highlights include origami and cake decorating classes. November features a talk and Q&A with local author Starr Diethorn.
The exciting fall events are not limited to adults, however. In the Children’s Room, the weekly Wednesday
story times will continue into the cooler months, as well as the LEGO Club, Sensory Story Time, and ASL Story Time. In addition to these, there will be monthly S.T.E.A.M. days, story and craft events, and even a “bad art” competition for kids. These new programs are the brainchild of Rebecca Weisman, the Youth Services assistant at the library.
“We’re offering a little bit of everything in terms of programming. No two children are the same, and we want to make sure that every child finds something they like at our library” Weisman said.
Please see the Library’s calendar of events for more details - https://hackettstownlibrary.org/calendar.
A free Hackettstown library card is available to anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Hackettstown. Apply in person or go to https://hackettstownlibrary.org/ services/library-cards/
The Hackettstown Free Public Library is located at 110 Church Street.
For more information, call (908) 852-4936 or email info@hackettstownlibrary.org
Pictured is Rebecca Weisman hosting LEGO Club. Courtesy of the Hackettstown Free Public Library
25 Blazingstar Way Allamuchy Twp
List Price $649,900
Beautiful townhome features 3 bedrooms, 2-full and 2-half bathrooms, finished basement with 2 car gar. Open foyer with high ceilings and hardwood floors that lead to an open floor plan. Hardwood flooring throughout. kitchen with white cabinets, granite countertops, recessed lighting, stainless steel ap- pliances, center island, subway tile backsplash, and plenty of storage space. Sliders in kitchen to patio. The primary bedroom has a rustic wood accent wall, walk in closet, full bathroom w/walk-in shower with sitting area, double sinks with granite countertops. Fin. basement. Garage completely painted and great for additional space. The entire house has been tastefully painted in neutral colors, creating a soothing and inviting atmosphere. Panther Valley community offers various amenities, Overall, this home offers a spacious and stylish living environment and access to a range of community amenities.
Drive Washington Twp
List Price: $499,900
3 bedroom, 2 full, 1 half bathroom home. Spacious yard of just over 1 acre. Large stamped concrete patio with a retaining wall. Recent updates include newer windows, roof, and water heater. Updated kitchen features quartz countertops and s/s appls. Bathrooms are updated. First level: living room, dining room, eat-in kit. with custom table, family room, and laundry room. Hardwood flooring continues upstairs. Main suite boasts a walk-in closet, double closet, full bathroom w/stall shower. 2 other bedrooms w/ crown molding, full bathroom w/double sink vanity, tub/shower combo. Tons of storage with basement and 2 pull down attics (upper hall and garage).Serene neighborhood setting. Top rated Long Valley schools.
106
Indigo Rd Allamuchy Twp
List Price: $499,900
Hickory custom model located in Panther Valley is a beautifully remodeled home with many modern and upgraded features. Kit. w/white soft-close cabinets, Quartz counters, center island, subway tile backsplash, s/s appls, and recessed lighting. Living room: gas fireplace with wood surround and accent wall. Powder room stone accent wall and vanity with shelving. Main bedroom: vaulted ceilings, walk-in closet, bathroom with double sinks, soaking tub, separate walk-in shower. All bedrooms have walk-in closets, 2nd floor laundry room. Fin. bsmt. Panther Valley amenities include three pools, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and playgrounds. Move-in ready and has everything one could want in a home and more.
63 Overlook Drive Independence Twp
LIst Price $299,900
2-story. Private deck and yard. Oversized 2-car garage offers ample space for your vehicles and additional storage. Freshly painted, New appliances, gourmet stove, fireplace adds warmth and coziness. First floor main bedroom w/walk in closet, full bathroom. Indulge in the ultimate relaxation with the jetted tub, providing a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home. Loft area upstairs can be utilized for family room or converted for third bedroom if needed. The bright southerly exposure floods the townhouse with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The abundance of windows brings the outdoors in. Come and experience the epitome of mountain living with this remarkable townhouse.
12 Pondview Rd Pasippany Twp
List Price: $650,000
4bedroom, two- and one-half bathroom colonial in the coveted Glacier Hills community. Kit. features cherry cabinets, granite counters, s/s appls, travertine tile back splash, under counter lighting, recessed lighting. Slider off kitchen to patio. Open level backyard with mature landscaping. Laundry on main floor with large pantry and utility sink. Spacious living room w/ hardwood floors. Dining room with parquet wood floors. Family room open with recessed lighting. All bedrooms with hardwood floors. Main bedroom w/walk in closet features pull down attic w/additional storage. Primary bedroom updated with walk in shower. Furnace 2011. AC 2021. Roof 2007 approx. Memberships available to Glacier Hills Association.
1203 Magnolia Ct Washington Twp
List Price: 395,000
Immaculate three bedroom, two and a half bathroom townhome with full basement in prestigious Long Valley school district. Primary bedroom with walk in closet & full bathroom. Eat in kitchen with oak cabinets. Open floor plan light and airy! Living room with sliders to large patio great to enjoy your morning coffee. Unfinished basement with tons of storage. Close to Rt46/shopping. Amenities include pool, tennis/basketball courts.
13 Mourning Dove Allamuchy Twp Sale Price 325,000
Two bedroom, two and a half bathroom townhome sit. in Panther Valley. Living room w/wood burning fireplace featuring a beautiful wood surround and mantle. Spacious eat in kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and bay window with beautiful views. Dining room with sliders to deck. Powder room refreshed with white vanity and new hardware. Master bedroom with walk in closet, full bathroom. Guest bath offers walk in shower. Covered front porch, newer furnace/central air (2014), newer windows (2015) newer carpet (2015). Panther Valley amenities. Close to Route 80 and Route 46 this is a great commuter location. Bsmt. has mud room entrance area and laundry/utility room only.
Gina P. Wingell Foundation Continues to Help Others in Greatest Time of Need
by Jeff GarrettIt’s not every day that someone starts a Foundation for philanthropic good.
And keeping a Foundation sustained financially through challenging times takes hard work. Usually something like the loss of a loved one prompts action to take a rather, dramatic well-intended step.
This is the journey Michael Wingell started after his mother Gina P. Wingell lost an eight-year battle with Lupus in 2017.
Michael Wingell’s motivation sprouted up from the challenges he and her mother faced battling the terminal illness. Gina was diagnosed with systemic lupus in 2009, in the middle of the worst economic slowdown since the Great Depression of the 1930’s.
Gina lost her job and money only grew tighter as the battle to live took shape. Working around the house became a burden, one she had a difficult time managing as Lupus grew stronger.
Michael was helping – observing too, feeling that if this is occurring in their world, circumstances must be extremely difficult for others in this dire situation.
Rather than sit still hoping someone else
would do the job, Michael stepped up to the plate and formed the Gina P. Wingell Foundation, and adopted a mission “to protect and preserve the dignity of severely disability-stricken families. Thinking beyond the loss with the greater good in mind, motivated Michael. And so, another well-guided 501c (3) was formed in New Jersey.
The Gina P. Wingell Foundation provides up to $15,000 of tax-free financial assistance to families in need with the Gina P. Wingell Financial Relief Fund.
It goes further by informing the public on how to protect against sickness, injury and disability by going Into communities and sharing stories of important ways to protect families from losses incurred by a disability.
So, it is not just folks affected by Lupus who can get help from the Foundation but anyone suffering financial hardship through depleting disabilities.
A third goal of the Gina P. Wingell Foundation is to prevent potential financial disasters and mitigate current ones –meaning the Foundation seeks to predict and address challenging times ahead when
one receives devastating news and will most likely lose their jobs.
It helps those it can who may be in the midst of a financial maelstrom associated with medical troubles and no way to offset costs.
Going further, it seeks to prepare people who never thought they would be disabled for that outcome, and to take necessary precautions. Finally, it provides hope to family members for survival and the rebuilding of their lives if death to someone stricken with
a disability, does not recover.
The Wingell Foundation has partnered with larger non-profits and corporations such as Lupus Foundation of America, MassMutual Foundation, MassMutual NJNYC and Canary-Jones Holdings, LLP.
It encourages tax-deductible financial donations which can be made through the Gina P. Foundation Financial Relief Gift. It’s Federal ID is #88-2002372. For more information, logon to http://ginapwingell. org/donation.
• Education Benefits 100% Free Tuition
•
Staples in Mansfield
$2,095
Supplies to The Arc of Warren County through Their Care Packages Program
Staples in Mansfield recently donated 419 $5 care packages to The Arc of Warren County equaling $2,095 in supplies gifted to The Agency. The care packages were donated to the Agency’s Day Program and Recreation Departments through their Care Packages Program.
“We are grateful to Staples Mansfield for continuing to be such a generous community partner throughout the years,” says Annamaria Lalevee, Chief Development and Communications Officer at The Arc of Warren County. “I would like to thank Staples and General Manager, Bill Ritacco, for choosing The Arc of Warren County as a recipient for their Care Packages Program and to their customers for making this gift a reality.”
Bill Ritacco adds that this donation could only be secured because of the
support of the community-at-large.
“It is a pleasure being able to help a great organization like The Arc of Warren County,” says Bill Ritacco. “I would like to thank our patrons for helping make this donation possible.”
The Arc is a national organization that has served individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their family members since 1950. The Arc of Warren County is one of 700 chapters of The Arc and serves more than 1,100 people annually for the past 69 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.
Roxbury High School’s Michael Gottfried Named Teacher of the Year – Twice
By Steve Sears2023 has been a good year thus far for Roxbury High School aviation, physics and geophysical science teacher, Dr. Michael Gottfried.
Gottfried was named Teacher of the Year by both Roxbury High School, and by the local Air and Space Forces Association (AFA) Shooting Star Chapter 195 of Florham Park. In addition, Gottfried earned his pilot’s license, where he learned alongside students in the school’s aviation program.
Gottfried, who was raised in Roxbury and went through the school system, learned of his awards in early May.
Gottfried says, “I’m extremely humbled, especially considering that, at Roxbury High School, we have upwards of 170 staff members in the school who were eligible for this award. To be the person that was selected really means a lot to me, considering there are so many great teachers in Roxbury High School.”
Gottfried was also invited to the school’s Top 10 Dinner, which honors students ranked in the high school’s academic top 10, to speak on behalf of one of his students. The student invites the teacher
that has had the biggest impact on them during their kindergarten through grade 12 education in Roxbury. Gottfried says, “The student speaks about the teacher and then the teacher gets a chance to speak about the student, and then we enjoy dinner and dessert together. It’s a nice program.”
Matthew Mawn, Grades 7-12 Supervisor of Science, Engineering, Technology, Design, & Visual Arts, says of Gottfried, “Not only has he started our pilot program here for our students - really taking a dream and creating it to reality - he’s led by example. He’s someone who started a program without his pilot’s license and was encouraging students to get their pilot license and is doing it alongside them. He really is being a mentor, just showing students what hard work gets you, and what staying determined and dedicated gets you. He’s more than a teacher; he’s more than delivering curriculum to students and taking a test. He’s what every school and every parent wants their child’s teacher to be.”
Gottfried, a 2009 Roxbury High School graduate who attended Penn State University for his bachelor’s degree,
Centenary University for his master’s degree, and received in 2019 his Education Specialist’s degree and in 2021 his doctorate, both from Seton Hall University, was lauded as well by Jim Morgan, VicePresident of the AFA Shooting Star Chapter 195.
Morgan says, “We were very pleased to award Dr. Michael Gottfried as one of
our Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) “Shooting Star” Chapter 195 “Teachers of the Year”, especially since he was already a Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Aerospace Education Membership (AEM) teacher and has used some of the free STEM (Science, Technology, Electronics, Math) kits within his classes.” Dominick Miller, Roxbury High School
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Principal, adds, “There was no one more deserving of these honors than Dr. Gottfried. He has set a positive example for his students and colleagues. Dr. Gottfried is not afraid to tackle any challenge. He single-handedly developed and promoted our Aviation program at Roxbury High School. Dr. Gottfried provided students with unique learning opportunities and encouraged all his students to think outside the box. Outside of the classroom, Dr. Gottfried is a person that you can count on. He is always willing to assist a student, colleague, parent, or administrator with a task. Dr. Gottfried is a student-centered educator that cares deeply about the entire community of Roxbury. We are fortunate to have Dr. Gottfried at
Roxbury High School, and I am incredibly grateful for all that he does for our school and community. Dr. Gottfried is a very special person.”
Gottfried, whose next goal is to get his Ground Instructor certificate for aviation, gives credit to the Roxbury school district. He
says, “The biggest thing is just the support that the district continues to give me. Everyone keeps saying I put in a lot of time and hard work, but the district makes this possible. I have really supportive administrators from the superintendent all the way down to my supervisor.”
Family Had ‘Double’ Meaning For WCCC Graduates
Nicholas and Nathan Harrison
It was a family affair at Warren Community College the past two semesters. In fact, you could say that it had a double meaning for Nicholas and Nathan Harrison.
Nicholas and Nathan, you see, are twins. If that’s not double meaning enough, what makes it a doubling of family connections, their mom is a Professor at Warren.
Both Nicholas and Nathan graduated from Warren this past May with Associate degrees in Liberal Arts.
It should also be noted here that Dr. Jennifer Harrison also is a graduate of Warren, having earned a Liberal Arts degree in 2000 on her way to eventually getting a Doctorate. Her oldest daughter Courtney is also a Warren graduate (2018).
“Having all of my children attend WCC has given me a unique opportunity to better understand the student experience at WCC and further help other students in my role as a Professor,” said Dr. Harrison, adding that her two other children, Paige and Michael, have taken courses at Warren while attending other colleges. “It was fun (having them here)! They would often come and visit me in my office, steal some snacks, and catch me up on how their classes were going.”
It was fun for Jennifer, but how about for her sons?
“For me, it wasn’t strange having my mom at the same college that I attended,” said Nathan. “It felt pretty normal. I actually liked it. In between classes, I would go into my mom’s office to talk to her and relax. I enjoyed getting to see her every day at work. I was not in any of my mom’s classes since she wasn’t allowed to be my teacher (college policy). I wish I could have taken one of her classes since I hear they’re amazing.”
“Surprisingly it was not that strange being in the same college as my mother,” agreed Nicholas.
Nathan and Nicholas both graduated from Hackettstown High School in 2022. During the COVID shutdown they took online courses through Warren. When school resumed they picked up college credits while at Hackettstown High through dual enrollment classes. Thus, when they started at WCCC in the fall of 2022, they both had a year of college under their belts.
Initially, both considered going to 4-year colleges but for financial reasons and other considerations, felt that Warren was a better fit.
“I was planning on going to McDaniel College on a soccer scholarship but decided against it due to the benefits I found at WCCC , being close to home and still earning my degree,” said Nathan.
Added Nicholas, “I was going to attend a 4 year D3 school in Maryland for soccer but decided against it because I didn’t want to be in debt.”
Early on Nathan and Nicholas got a bit of the star treatment from some students.
“Their first semester they said everyone would say hi to them in the hallways like they knew them because they are my kids,” said Dr. Harrison. “They would just smile and say hello back (usually in unison). They said they felt a little famous, which we all found funny.”
“Students were all pretty nice about it,” said Nathan. “I was always having people talk to me about how they try to get her as a teacher every semester since they enjoy her classes.”
“Kids usually thought it was cool that my mom taught
Blue Knight Tinting
there because they all loved her if they had had her as a teacher,” chimed in Nicholas.
Nicholas’ plans for the immediate future have him taking electrical classes in preparation for his plans come the fall. “My plans for the fall are to find a line school or trade school to become an electrical lineman, and get into an apprenticeship program,” he said.
Nathan, meanwhile, for now will continue to work at his part time job at Lowe’s and then “build up the business my brother and I created. We created the business ‘Harrison Hauling LLC’ in March. Hopefully I can build the business into something that can provide for me.”
For the Harrison family, Warren County Community College has truly been a home away from home.
Three Centenary University Students Awarded Scholarships to Attend American Association of University Women (AAUW) Conference in Maryland
Three Centenary University students were awarded full scholarships to attend the national leadership conference of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), which was held recently at the University of Maryland in College Park. The Centenary students— Onoshope Itunoya-Musa ’24 of Newark, N.J., Jasmine Sampong ’26 of Riverdale, N.J., and Angelica Torres ’25 of Lancaster, Pa.— were each selected to receive scholarships covering the full cost of conference attendance from the AAUW’s New Jersey chapter, which had originally planned to award just two scholarships, according to Kathleen Greco, community engagement coordinator at Centenary.
The three students were instrumental in the recent launch of a Centenary University chapter of the AAUW after Itunoya-Musa was encouraged to attend a virtual AAUW conference by late Centenary First Lady Jeanne Murphy, who had been a member of the New Jersey chapter. Since the scholarships didn’t cover transportation, the University provided funds to fully cover transportation expenses through the Wallbank-Rowland Endowment Scholarship, which supports extraordinary non-classroom experiences for Centenary students. In addition, the
University community—including faculty, administrators, staff, and alumni—chipped in to help pay other related expenses of the trip. Greco explained, “Everyone recognized that this was a huge opportunity for our students to attend a national conference. The students were so happy that the Centenary community was there for them.”
Once in Maryland, the Centenary students interacted with other young women from universities around the nation and attended workshops designed to empower young women in their professional and personal lives, including personal finance and healthy relationships. “We got to listen to and meet a lot of women in leadership positions,” recalled Sampong. “One woman spoke about empowerment in the workplace, especially in terms of Black women and women of color. She talked about the challenges Black women face in the corporate world and how young women can gain leadership positions.”
A key takeaway from the conference for Itunoya-Musa was the importance of women developing a voice: “It’s important to find your unique voice and stand on it. You should challenge yourself to become educated and be confident to be yourself when you go out in the world. You have to stay true to yourself.”
From left, Angelica Torres, Jasmine Sampong, Onoshope Itunoya-Musa
Torres added that her favorite workshop focused on avoiding burnout. “It’s all about finding balance and not overworking yourself,” she said. “It’s important to do one thing at a time and find ways to relax.”
Now, the Centenary University chapter of the AAUW is growing. Since the conference, more young women have inquired about joining and plans for guest speakers and other AAUW activities are taking shape for
the fall semester. That’s exactly what Greco had hoped would happen: “The one thing I wanted our students to take away from this conference is confidence. As a university, it is our responsibility to help lift students to new levels and to help them to grow. People at Centenary are starting to get excited about this organization. It accomplishes great things—like sending three students to a national conference.”
I Remember Dad: The Homecoming
By Richard Mabey Jr.Not long after the Japanese attack of Pearl Harbor and Hickam Airfield, my father was sent to Hickam to help clean up the aftermath of that most dreadful example of man’s inhumanity to man. Dad spent most of his four-year hitch with the Seventh Army Air Corps, stationed at Hickam. During that time, my beloved father drove a fuel truck, fueled airplanes and later learned to change the spark plugs in the famous P-51 Mustang Fighter Planes. At Hickam, Dad was to have the high honor to be interviewed by the legendary Jerry Siegel, the co-creator of Superman. The article appeared in the pages of the Hickam Highlights newspaper. Dad was to develop a friendly acquaintance with the famous comic book author. Shortly after World War II was over, Dad came home from the war. Home was the very house that my paternal grandfather, Watson Mabey, had built at the end of Mabey Lane when Grandpa was a young man, working as the Chief Engineer of Incline Plane Ten East. The home was surrounded by woods, to the north, the east and the west. To the south, lied a large open
field, my grandfather had bestowed the name “Earl’s Meadow” to it. For this was the acre of land that Grandpa’s brother planned on building a home upon, when he returned from France during World War I. Sadly, Great Uncle Earl was killed in action.
My grandmother often told me that as soon as Dad came home from the war, he called upon the cute from Boonton, Janet Ethel Kemmerer, who lived across Boonton Avenue from Dad’s older brother Earl (who was named after Great Uncle Earl) and Uncle Earl’s wife, Eleanor. My maternal grandfather, Edmund C. Kemmerer, was a very devoutly religious man. And Janet, my beloved late mother, was the youngest of his nine children. So my dear old Dad had to face the interrogation of my grandfather and Mom’s three protective, older brothers. Dad would often kid around saying that he almost didn’t pass the test, they put him through.
Grandpa Kemmerer was a Fireman with Uncle Earl. Grandpa held a high respect for Uncle Earl, so that was one feather that Dad had in his hat, during his initial meeting with Grandpa.
My mom worked in the
Bakery Department at the A&P in Boonton. Sadly, that quaint and charming store has long been demolished. Mom would often bring home the cookies that were no longer fresh enough to be worthy of being sold. And, from those batches of cookies, she would do her patriotic duty and mail about a dozen cookies to this lonely Airman, to whom the United States Army Air Corps had sent over to a far away place called Hawaii.
Mom would include a little letter to this lonely Airman, being my dad, with each shipment of her famous baked cookies. Dad would write back a little thank you letter to Mom and end each letter with the words, “please do send more cookies!”
How this pen pal friendship came about, is that Aunt Eleanor, in one of her visits to the Kemmerer Homestead, asked Mom if she wouldn’t mind sending some of Mom’s famous home-baked cookies to her lonely brother-in-law, Richard. I often wonder where I would be, had it not been for Aunt Eleanor’s suggestion that Mom send cookies to Dad.
When he came home from the war, Dad worked three jobs! He drove a truck for Moon Carrier,
which was located in Paterson. He worked nights as a dispatcher. And then on Saturdays, Dad worked as an usher at the stately Majestic Theater in Paterson. Sundays, after church Dad would drive his 1935 Hudson Coupe, from Lincoln Park to Boonton to visit Mom and have supper at the Kemmerer Homestead. Dad often joked about his early dates with Mom. He would arrive at the Kemmerer home, sit in the living room with Grandpa Kemmerer and watch the Yankee game on TV, while Mom cooked supper with Grandma. Grandpa would offer Dad to take a couple of pretzels from the pretzel bag. Dad said that he would always take just two pretzels, because that was what a couple was. Dad often joked that he was always afraid to take the third
pretzel.
Dad often recounted how Grandpa would put him through the mill about how things were going at his jobs. Dad said that he often told Grandpa Kemmerer about his big plans to be a cartoon artist. Dad would even bring some of his cartoon drawings for
Program by: Mac McParland
Grandpa to see. After supper, Mom and Dad would sit on the rock wall, that stood along the sidewalk of the old Kemmerer Homestead, with Grandma and Grandpa. My maternal grandfather kept a watchful eye on my dad! Sadly, continued on page 16
The history of beer extends back before the Babylonians in 400 BC. Learn how beer came to America, and the important role it played in the development of the country Learn about the breweries of Newark, NJ, once considered the brewing capital of the United States, and current craft breweries in the local area. Even tho’ beer might not be for you, it has a very interesting place in the development of th country.
100 Years Ago This Month: Historical Events from August 1923
The month of August has been home to many historical events over the years. Here’s a look at some that helped to shape the world in August 1923.
• United States President Warren G. Harding dies suddenly in San Francisco on August 2. President Harding was conversing with relatives when he passed away from what was then suspected to be a stroke but is now believed to have been heart failure. President Harding was 57 years old.
• Henry Sullivan becomes the first American to swim the English Channel when he completes the feat on August 6. Sullivan needed a little more than a full day to make his mark on history, swimming the channel in 27 hours and 25 minutes.
• Many businesses close and owners go on strike in Berlin on August 9. The protest is an attempt to force German Chancellor Wilhelm Cuno from office. Opposition to Cuno hardened over the next several days, ultimately prompting him and his cabinet to resign on August 12.
• An expedition by the American Museum of Natural History to the Flaming Cliffs in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert leads to the discovery of the first velociraptor fossil on August 11.
• A series of tidal waves strike the western coast of Korea on August 15. At least 346
I Remember Dad...
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people are killed and an additional 1,000 are considered missing after 25,000 homes are submerged in waves and flooding.
• Thousands of Canadians lose their savings when the Home Bank of Canada closes its doors on August 17.
• Ada Delutuk Blackjack is rescued on August 19 after being marooned on Wrangel Island above the Arctic Circle. Blackjack, an Alaskan native hired as a cook for a Canadian expedition to claim the island for Canada, had been marooned since September 15,1921. Blackjack was the last survivor among the five-person expedition team.
• On August 20, a train is robbed near Okemah, Oklahoma, and bandits take off with $20,000 in cash and bonds. The incident marks one of the last train robberies in the United States.
• Four-year-old child actress Peggy-Jean Montgomery signs a three-year, $1 million contract on August 26. Known as “Baby Peggy,” Montgomery would make more than 150 short films and receive millions of fan letters in the 1920s. However, Montgomery’s parents mismanaged her earnings and she was forced to work as an extra by the 1930s.
• The first parliamentary election since the founding of the Irish Free State is held on August 27.
Mom’s old homestead has been replaced by a large, modern home. However, the rock wall that my grandfather built, when he was a young man, still stands!
My Grandma Mabey told me this story one time. Dad was an avid saver. Grandma told me that Dad saved every penny he could. Grandma told me that Dad would put cardboard in his shoes, rather than buy new shoes. Grandma would argue with him to spend some money on new shoes, but Dad would tell Grandma that he was saving money for a down payment on the house he was going to buy, after he married Janet Kemmerer.
So, Grandma Mabey once told me that she was so shocked when Dad told her that he was going to take her and Grandpa and Janet Kemmerer to an expensive restaurant in the big city of Paterson! You see that was part of the deal that Dad had to agree with, with Grandpa Kemmerer. He could take Mom out to a swanky restaurant, if his mother and father were going to accompany them! It was another time, another culture, that was world’s apart from our modern day lifestyle!
Dad was such a patient man. Sadly,
my father never did see his dream of becoming a famous cartoonist. I think that his friendship with Jerry Siegel, at Hickam Air Field, had a profound effect upon Dad. Some time in the late 1940’s, my father and his brother, Edward, formed the Mabey Trucking Company. They owned a successful trucking company for many years. I don’t know what happened. But it was around 1966, when I was in seventh grade, that Dad and Uncle Ed disbanded their trucking company. Dad then began working at Main Trucking Rigging in Elmwood Park.
Now at 69, I look back and try to fill in the gaps. I would love just to have half-anhour to talk to my father, just one more time. Just to ask him all so many questions, to put in the missing pieces of the puzzle. Perhaps, when I leave this physical body and see Dad in Heaven, I’ll get the chance to ask him.
Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.
Museum Spotlight: Washington Township Historical Society
by Jack GarrettLocated at 6 Fairview Ave., Washington Township Historical Society is the inspiration of several residents who appreciated the largely unknown history of the Washington Township, Morris County over 60 years ago.
Its goal is to share those historical origins and memories and bring them together for those excited with curiosity over where they live and to non-reisdent visitors eager to learn something new. It is the oldest historical group in Morris County.
The Historical Society dates from 1960 and opened its first museum in 1981. An old school house from 1830 appropriately was, and still is, home to that museum. The Historical Society lovingly maintains and staffs the building which has been, since its foundation was laid, a private residence and public library.
The area, called a census-designated community, is located within Washington Township, Morris County. Originally known as German Valley, it was settled by a German reformed congregation which emigrated from the mother country in 1705. It is home to the Washington Township New Jersey Historical Society. The change of name from German Valley to Long Valley came about during World War I.
The stated mission of the Washington Township Historical Society is to achieve the following duties: “Compiling, publishing and spreading historical information; collecting and studying historical records, papers and artifacts; providing a public museum for residents to explore and learn, promoting the preservation of buildings, cemeteries and sites of historic interest.” While the
community of Long Valley inevitably grew, there remains the original German town, preserved today by the Historical Society. Known as the German Valley Historical District, there remain a few of the original structures including block houses where the locals could take shelter in case of conflict with Indian tribes.
The Washington Township New Jersey Historical Society’s membership stands at around 95 interested neighbors.
Its membership is active and is a historical society offering several community functions every year. Currently on the calendar is a Power Point presentation at the library about the Middle Valley Historic District, scheduled for October 7.
On October 28, in keeping with the best traditions of Halloween, a guided Cemetery Tour is planned.
Since the cemetery dates back to the community’s founding there will, undoubtedly, be interesting anecdotes about the personalities who’s names grace the head stones.
The museum contains an interesting assortment of memorabilia including photos, local artifacts, farm tools, clothes and books, some of it dating back to the community’s founding. Items are added as they become available and they provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of this community.
For residents and visitors alike, there is always to something to see and learn at Washington Township Historical Society. The Historical Society is open from 2-4pm on Sundays. Its phone number is 908-876-9696.
For more information about the facility, logon to www.wth.snj.org or email info@ wthsnj.org.
Sopapilla Bars
Servings: 15
Nonstick cooking spray
2 packages (8 ounces each)
crescent rolls
24 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 cups sugar, divided
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Heat oven to 350 F.
Lightly grease 9-by-13inch glass baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Place one package unrolled crescent rolls in bottom of dish. Pinch seams together.
In large bowl, beat cream cheese until soft. Add 1 cup sugar and cornstarch. Beat mixture until combined.
Add vanilla extract and egg. Beat until combined.
Pour batter onto crescent roll dough. Smooth with spatula.
On floured surface, unroll second package crescent roll dough. Pinch seams and roll dough to 1/2 inch longer and wider.
Place rolled sheet on top
of cheesecake layer. Spread melted butter over top.
In small bowl, whisk remaining sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle over top of bars.
Bake 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool to room temperature. Chill in
Master Summer Meals with an Apple and Mandarin
Skip 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)
NJStarz
NJ Starz: Tom Doherty Hometown: Ridgewood
By Steve SearsAccording to Tim Doherty, President and Chief Operating Officer of Allendale, New Jersey’s Doherty Enterprises, the key word he and his colleagues live by is accountability.
Doherty says, “We have to hold ourselves to execute on accountability - not just every day, but every shift and every interaction. It’s not just cooking that one hamburger, but it’s those interactions throughout the day that we must execute on 100% of the time.”
The self-proclaimed “baseball guy” then brings America’s pastime into the discussion. Doherty says, “If I hit a baseball three out of 10 times, I’m going to the Hall of Fame. However, if I only execute on wowing our guests three out of 10 times, I’m out of business in 12 months. Holding ourselves accountable is so critical.”
Courtesy of its website, Doherty Enterprises (www.dohertyinc.com) “is a
franchisee of three iconic national brands (Applebee’s, Panera Bread, and Chevy’s Fresh Mex), showcasing that innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. Doherty also owns and operates two independent, proprietary concepts, the Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas. Today, Doherty is a regional powerhouse with over 140 restaurants in New York, New Jersey, Georgia, and Florida.”
That indeed is a lot of accountability for Doherty and his team, but his up-front enthusiasm and love for what he does has you feeling – and if you’ve visited one of the before mentioned eateries, you’ve experienced it – that Doherty Enterprises is a Triple Crown winner in location, food quality, and team and service.
Doherty currently lives in New York City, but he grew up in Ridgewood. He lived there from the time he was born until he went to college at Lehigh University.
“I had a fantastic and ideal childhood,” Doherty says. “Ridgewood was a fantastic town, I had great friends, and I had a great education from the public education school system. I have wonderful parents. My father, Ed, started our organization back in 1985 when I was eight years old, and my mother, Joan, was a world-class mom who took great care of myself and my two younger sisters, Shannon and Kerry. Both of my sisters work with me in the organization from a strategic point of view on a day-to-day basis.”
Doherty started in the family business as an Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar + Grill host and assistant server, but he remembers being in the many Roy Rogers restaurants his dad was franchisee of over 30 years ago. “I remember vividly when I was eight, nine, and ten years old, and being in the restaurants with him. Heaven forbid something was going poorly. He would say to me, ‘Get your butt over there and start
bussing some tables.” Doherty laughs before continuing. “So vividly I remember barely seeing over the tables and clearing things off.” Those early days led to October of 1994, when Doherty was at Applebee’s in Paramus on opening day. Then a 17-year-old senior at Ridgewood High School, he was too young to serve alcohol, so he toiled as a server’s assistant - essentially a busboy and a host continued on page 22
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– and he worked there throughout his senior year of high school. When the following summer arrived and he turned 18 in July, he became a server. Anytime he was home from college over the next four years for more than 24 hours, he was picking up shifts, and officially became a trainer in the service position.
Following his Lehigh graduation with a bachelor’s degree in finance, Doherty returned home once again, and this time, in his words “per family rule, I had to get a ‘real job’ because you can’t just come and work for dad.” Doherty next moved abroad to Dublin, Ireland and worked for the country’s largest bank, Allied Irish Bank.
He eventually wound up back in New Jersey and then in New York City with the bank, and stayed with them until 2003, when he made a big career decision. He had achieved success, and there was potential at AIB for him to achieve more.
There was just one problem. ‘I was at a crossroads in my career,” Doherty says. “I was struggling with that decision because I just wasn’t particularly passionate about the industry. I really enjoyed the people I worked for, I got a great education from them, and they treated me well. But despite all of that, I was sitting behind a desk staring at numbers all day long, and I didn’t have any passion behind that.” He approached his dad for, not a future employer\employee relationship discussion, but a father and son talk. “I told him, ‘I’m just not happy, and I don’t know what to do.’ And we started talking about potential options for the future – one of which was working for the organization.”
His heart was calling him, and although Doherty had always enjoyed working in the restaurant industry, he did
not want to return to it in a managerial role. The time was apropos, however, for something else. When he came on board, Doherty Enterprises had 36 restaurants at that time, were continuing to grow the Applebee’s brand, and just beginning their Panera Bread journey. Dad and son chatted about his possible role, and the real estate development arm was raised, which Ed Doherty had been doing alongside of running the organization. He trained his son in that realm, and ultimately growing the number of the organization’s restaurants, as well as the number of team members, were both now in Tim’s court.
Doherty embraced both opportunities. He says, “What I really started to pride myself and get passionate behind, while we were growing our restaurants, was growing our team member base, and continuing to provide jobs for fantastic people who wanted to be in this industry and get ahead. We were able to grow that employee base, and I started to really find passion behind our people. When I transitioned over to the operations side of the business, I initially became the COO, and I worked under our president for about a decade, who was really a great mentor of mine, Edward Choe.”
Doherty, now 46, officially became President and COO in 2018.
“Our culture is what differentiates us from our competition,” Doherty says of the popular Applebee’s concept. “Anyone can make a burger, anyone can make a sandwich, anyone can make a salad. What really differentiates us is the guest experience, the hospitality experience. We only do that through our culture and how we impact, not only our guests, but also our people. Applebee’s has been around for over 40 years at this point, and we are as vibrant
and doing as well - not only Doherty, which we are - but as a system on a national basis, as we ever have. That really comes with, in my mind, being part of the neighborhood, and delivering what we call a ‘Wow Every Guest Every Time’ experience, which is part of our mission statement. And that’s how you can impact people and guests and remain vibrant and successful 40 years into a concept.”
Doherty has a great support team at home. His wife, Valerie, he says, inspires him every day. “She is an incredible spouse, an incredible support to me, and she has always been in the service industry, so she understands the business. I love her with all my heart.” The Dohertys are parents of a four-year-old daughter, Emma, and a 15-month-old son, Alexander.
And for Tim Doherty, his family is most important. “That is my immediate family, my parents, and my sisters and their families,” he says. “We are a very close-knit family, which is very special, and which I couldn’t be more proud of.”
Then there’s the extended family, the eatery clans, the backbone of what Doherty Enterprises does.
Doherty says, “What gets me going every single day, and why I come to work, is because I want our business to be a strong and viable business for as long as we own restaurants. There are about 6,000 people that I employ, and if they believe in our vision, if they believe in our mission, and if they execute on that day in and day out, then I want them to have a home with me, and I want to make sure that their experience at Doherty Enterprises truly wows them, too.”
He then adds, “I’m very proud to be an Applebee’s franchisee. I’m very proud of our business and I’m very proud of our team. I’m also proud to be a Panera Bread franchisee, and all the other brands we operate.”
For The Whole Family
By Henry M. HoldenFurever Safe
Camille doesn’t like dogs. She is madly in love with them. So in love she created Furever Home Dog Rescue (FHDR) in 2009.
“Before this, I was a personal trainer for many years. But I love dogs, and I always thought that I needed a physical location to try and get dogs adopted. Then I met a lady who fostered dogs.”
Camille started fostering with just one dog. Then she began thinking maybe she could get other people who loved dogs to help.
FHDR does not have a local shelter for the dogs. They are flown to New Jersey from North Carolina and Texas. Then our foster families provide a temporary home for these pups until they are adopted.
“So, I started recruiting fosters. I’m very hands-on. I do pretty much everything myself. I do have volunteers that are also fosters. It’s a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun.
Camille averages about 100 dogs a year. Over the past 15 years she is responsible for the permanent adoption of roughly 1,500 dogs.
“I usually have eight to 10 dogs at a time. I have people on my email list that when the dogs arrive here, they will do everything needed to make the dogs comfortable. If the dogs are in crates, they will have to be washed and bleached and sometimes they must be shipped back to the shelter.”
Camille has had her ups and downs in this business. “Right now, it’s slow with adoptions. The Christmas season is a very busy time, and adoptions
Photo credit FHDR are usually high. In May and June adoptions are slower because kids are graduating from school. Other activities are also going on.
“Adoptions are on the slow side, and I think it has to do with Covid. Some adopted dogs during the Covid just to keep the kids company. At the end of it, many dogs were returned. The world opened again, and people did not have time for the dogs. It was sad.”
During Covid, Camille had dogs up for adoption. “I’m a small rescue organization, but I was getting 50 to 100 inquiries every day. I could not keep up with the demand.”
Some of the dogs came back with behavioral issues because they weren’t trained properly in the beginning. “I was worried about this happening. People were inundating the rescue organizations returning dogs.”
The pups are temperament tested by the shelters and fully vetted by licensed veterinarians prior to being considered for Furever Home Dog Rescue.
“All our pups are placed in foster homes prior to adoption where our fosters provide further evaluation and house training.
“Fosters usually hold a pup from a week to a
month or two, on average. We are always looking for more foster families willing to open their homes to foster a pup until they are adopted to their furever homes.
“Fostering is a rewarding experience, and you will help save a dog’s life. There are puppies, young dogs and older dogs of different breeds that need foster homes. Our foster families choose the type of pup they want to foster.”
Camille will send an interested party an application. If they meet the initial requirements she will call and speak with them.
“If all goes well, I will call them, for references. When I get it down to one approved applicant, we set up a meet and greet. This is not an adoption session.
“Our adopters meet with the foster family to gain valuable insight into the pup’s behavior toward training, food, interaction with children, other dogs, cats, and other important intangibles.
“They meet the dog and have any questions answered. Then we determine at that point if it’s a good fit or not. The good thing about putting a dog in a foster home is I get a chance to see the dog and watch how he acts in a continued on page 24
Furever Safe...
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home setting. In a shelter they would act differently. Do they get along with kids?
“If I have a dog in a foster home and it doesn’t get along with the other dog, that’s already there, I know that we can’t put this dog in an environment that already has a dog.”
FHDR’s adoption process is very thorough and home visits or photos of the home are requested, and many other details are verified before a meet and greet can be set up. At the meet and greet a determination is made as to whether the dog will be awarded to the family.
“The process depends on how fast I can find a home for a dog that will be a good fit. I asked the fosters to commit to two months of fostering because my
facilities might be strained. I would say that 95-percent of dogs get adopted.
“Furever Home Dog Rescue is dedicated to saving adoptable dogs from being euthanized at overpopulated, high-kill animal shelters. Our goal is to adopt our dogs to homes
1972 High School Class Ring Washes Up on Point Pleasant Beach
by Jeff GarrettAt some point in everyone’s lives just about, a person can lay claim to having found something on the ground of worth. It could be $20 bill, an earring or a winning lottery ticket (yes, it’s happened).
But finding class rings that wash up on shore – now that is something. It’s akin to finding the proverbial “diamond in the rough”
a buzz from members of the Wachtung Hills regional High School Alumni group.
Turns out it belongs to 1972 Wachtung graduate, Jim Keelen.
Keelen went to the shore after graduation 51 years ago for some fun and promptly lost his ring in the ocean. “I thought it was lost,” he told media sources in June upon the discovery and re-connection to the ring.
that meet the personality, lifestyle, or special needs of our dogs. This year alone, approximately seven million pets will die in shelters in the US. If this is something that appeals to you email Camille at: www. fureverhomedogrescue. com.
In early June this summer, that’s what occurred to Anthony DiMaria Sadorski, a 21-year-old from Point Pleasant Borough who was outside leisurely taking pictures of a sunset near Beaver Dam Creek. Looking up with the camera, he decided to look down to catch a sparkling something getting his attention.
Dimaria-Sadorski was obviously surprised, examined the ring and thought this ring had an owner. Maybe the person was living, had a home nearby and could claim the ring.
He created a Facebook post soon thereafter and not long after the ring caught
Keelen surmised that some strong currents probably brough the ring back to the beach after bouncing and floating from points in the ocean for decades.
The ring stood up well but was noticeably scuffed in spots. He had it re-sized and made to look better.
Keelen was just thrilled at this development, awe-stricken even, that something he thought was lost forever, and never thought about anymore, was back in his life thanks to the efforts of a young stranger.
Keelen is wearing the ring again, maybe not at the beach so much, but it will be on his finger in the days to come.
Fun Facts About the Month of August
Summer is in full swing in August. Come the eighth month of the calendar year, temperatures outside tend to be especially steamy and individuals and families are doing all they can to make the most of the last full month of summer. As summer winds down, individuals can ponder these fun facts about the month of August.
1. Not unlike July, August is named after a notable individual associated with ancient Rome. Augustus Caesar, also known as Octavian and sometimes referred to as Caesar Augustus, was the first Roman emperor. Augustus’s reign was a lengthy one, beginning in 27 B.C. and lasting until his death in A.D. 14. Augustus’s maternal greatuncle was Julius Caesar, who happens to be the namesake of July.
2. August weather can make some people uncomfortable, and that has made the month part of what’s become known as “The Dog Days of Summer.” The Farmer’s Almanac indicates that the moniker is linked to the rising of Sirius, the Dog Star. Ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks believed that the rising of Sirius in mid- to late-summer caused the temperatures to rise and conditions to become less comfortable. Though temperatures remain hot and conditions humid in many parts of
the northern hemisphere throughout the month of August, the dog days officially end on August 11.
3. Millions of adults feel there’s no more refreshing beverage on a warm summer evening than a cold beer, and that may be even more so on the first Friday of August. That day marks International Beer Day®, which began as a local event in the western United States in 2007 but has since spread globally. More than 200 cities in 80 countries and across six continents now celebrate International Beer Day®, and celebrants can take part by enjoying a cold one and/or giving a loved one a beer. This year’s celebration will take place on Friday, August 4.
4. August is a notable month for one of the world’s most accomplished athletes. American swimmer Michael Phelps took center stage at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing when he won a total of eight gold medals, setting a record for the most gold medals by an athlete in a single Olympic Games. Phelps won his eighth gold medal in Beijing on August 17 in the 4 x 100-meter medley relay, officially eclipsing fellow American swimmer Mark Spitz, who had won seven gold medals at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich.
“The Cottage” Review
The Cottage” by Sandy Rustin is a warm, fun play. Set in the countryside village of Moreton-in- March, England (the year 1923), the six actors are embroiled in one caststrophy after another. It seems that each sibling can’t keep their hands off of each others wife. Beau (Eric McCormack) not only has his brothers wife Sylvia (Laura Bell Bundy), but even another mistress, Dierdre (Dana Steingold). Beau’s brother, Clarke (Alex Moffat) loves Beau’s wife, Marjorie who is pregnant with Clarke’s baby!
As a period piece, the costume design by Sydney Maresca is outstanding and the lighting by Jiyoun Chang captures the very heart of the play. Under the glam lighting it brings great attention to the excellent scenic design by Paul Tate dePoo lll. Between the three, the cottage is really a lovable place, and the lunatics inside
of it make it a must see!
For the most part Jerome Butler as dialect coach does a particularly good job as most of the actors capture the accents, the cadence of this British play. The only two problems that I saw with this play was the casting of Lili Cooper as Marjorie. I thought Cooper›s accent, her movements and her «business» was not sufficient in her role. Whereas the other five actors were spot on in their roles, I thought Cooper was an anchor around the rest
of the cast. Jason Alexander (Seinfeld) too, as the director tried too hard for to many laughs. The play on its face is very funny, however, Alexander tries to be overly ridiculous when he doesn’t need to be. Sandy Rustin in her Broadway debut has a winner, the laughs are aplenty! The plot is very creative and keeps the audience fixated on the next shoe to drop. For two hours, evenly spread out over two acts, we are fully entertained with this creative play.
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