Hackettstown December 2020

Henderson & Neuberg, LLC Putting our clients first for over 30 years Certified Public Accountant Personal Financial Specialist

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No. 18 Vol. 12

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Christmas Eve at Trinity Church

December 2020

245 Main Street Suite 201 Chester, NJ 07930

Phone: 908-879-7624 Fax: 908-879-2830

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Community Comes Together to Deliver 150 Thanksgiving Meals

213 Main St - Hackettstown Celebrate Christmas from the comfort of your home in 2 livestreamed worship services from the beautiful sanctuary of Trinity Church, Hackettstown.

December 24th 7:00 & 11:00 pm

Uplifting Music “The Christmas Story” And a message from

Pastor Frank Fowler Log on to the Trinity Church website: www.catchthespirit.org

For the past 4 years, Mary Lalama, her husband, Joe Nicastro and their children rent the senior center in Mt. Olive and provide a free Thanksgiving dinner to seniors who are alone and anyone who is in need. This year due to

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Covid they could not do a sit down dinner, so they decided to do home deliveries.

With the help of many they managed to deliver 120 sandwiches on Tuesday to the residents of Mt. Olive Manor and on Wednesday 150 meals to Mt. Olive and Hackettstown residents.

Lalama stated, “I could not have done any of this without the tremendous help from so many generous businesses and people in our community. I am so grateful to all of them.”

A huge thank you to Jersey Mike’s of Budd Lake for donating the sandwiches, Longhorn Steakhouse, Fresco of Chester, and Brandas for donating the turkey dinners, along with pasta and salads, Budd Lake Diner and Ashley Farms for donating pies, Motion Auto group and ShopRite of Mt. Olive for their generous donations. Also to the Mt. Olive Bible Church Explorer Girls and Mary Sanders for their beautiful notes.

Lalama would also like to thank all those who helped with the deliveries: Kearstin Tripi, Tanya Lehnert, Jill Church, Eileen Finneran, Lisa Brett, Jackie Pignataro, Illye Ostrenko, Cathy Chessen, Allie Cetrulo, Katie O’Sullivan, Meewan Rivera, Linda Hunter, Jennifer Kalkunte, Barbara Cathcart, and Janice Miller.

See additional photos on pages 8 & 9

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Sensitive Teeth

O

ne of the most common patient concerns we see in a dental office is tooth sensitivity. Barely a day goes by when patients don’t point out to the hygienist or dentist areas that are sensitive to cold or hot food & drinks, toothbrushing, breathing in cold air, a fingernail rubbed on the side of a tooth, or the like.

What causes sensitivity? There are many theories, but the most common is called, “Dentin Hypersensitivity.”

Basically, fluid movement in-and-out of a tooth is thought to cause activation of nerve endings at the center of the tooth (pulp). There are microscopic tubes connecting the center of the tooth to the outer environment. These tubes are normally covered by bone and gum, but with recession of the gums and bone, these tubes are now exposed. There are many reasons for the gum and bone recession, but age, gum disease, poor homecare and bite issues are major reasons.

Teeth have multiple layers: enamel, cementum, dentin, and pulp. For purposes of this article, suffice it to understand the dentin is covered by enamel or cementum. The tubes discussed above are located within the dentin. When the enamel or cementum are lost, the tubes are now exposed. Exposed dentin is subject to a number of undesirable processes, which can cause further wear. Some of these processes are “attrition,” “abrasion,” “abfraction,” and “erosion.” Some of these processes deserve further discussion.

Attrition and abfraction are destruction of tooth

structure cause by bite issues. When your dentist talks to you about grinding of teeth, attrition and abfraction can be the result. Abrasion is mechanical wear of your teeth, caused by improper brushing technique or too hard of a brush. Erosion is a chemical wearing of your teeth, caused by bulmia, morning sickness, GERD (stomach issues), and diet.

So, back to the sensitivity. What can you do about it?

The simplest way to try to correct the problem is by use of over-the-counter toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth, and rinses with fluoride. All major manufactures have these products. If you do try them, do not switch between types (tarter control, whitening, etc), and give it a whole month before expecting results. Your dentist can prescribe a high-concentration fluoride toothpaste, too.

Your dentist can also offer you a myriad of inoffice solutions, such as application of de-sensitizing medications. Insurance coverage can vary, but overall cost is not usually too extreme. You should note, however, results can also vary, and cannot be guaranteed.

Your dentist can also fabricate custom trays that you can place fluoride or desensitizing gels into. This is an extremely effective way to deliver prescription-strength medications to your teeth. These type of trays become important as people age, recession occurs, and cavities develop deep in-between teeth.

Time should be spent between you and your dentist to try and determine possible underlying conditions that

might be causing the sensitivity. If you have a systemic problem such as GERD, it would be helpful to your overall health to catch this. If you have a condition such as bulimia, it would also be beneficial to treat it. Other situations such as jaw / muscle (“TMJ”) could hopefully be identified, too.

If your dentin hypersensitivity is being caused by excessive grinding (bruxism), it may be very beneficial to undergo an examination process to determine the underlying issues, and propose treatment options.

Sometimes nightguards can be fabricated to help prevent further teeth destruction. They will also help to prevent you from fracturing teeth and fillings in the future, as well as relax muscles that you may not realize are being overworked. But just remember the nightguard is a protective measure, and not a cure for the underlying problem(s).

About the author: Dr. Ira Goldberg has been a dentist for 25 years, and maintains an extremely well-respected practice in Succasunna, NJ. He performs general dentistry procedures, cosmetic procedures, as well as dental implant procedures. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant Dentistry, and a Scholar of the Dawson Academy for Complete Dentistry. He is also a lecturer in the field of implantology. For a free consultation, please call his office at (973) 328-1225 or visit his website at www.MorrisCountyDentist.com

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Mount Olive and Stanhope Girl Scouts Work on Bettering Parks Together

T

By Megan Roche hanks to Girl Scout Troop 7872 of Mount Olive and Stanhope, local parks are getting an upgrade in the trash department.

As the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, the girls of Troop 7872 took to outdoor activities like hiking. As they were on hikes, each girl noticed that the amount of litter on the trails like gloves and masks were getting worse with each trek.

Troop leaders Allyson Galinis and Dawn Perry took action with the girls. The fourth graders of the troop decided to spring into action. Galinis and Perry spoke to the girls about the problems that they saw, asking them if they would like to start a Take Action project. A Take Action project helps the girls earn badges and make a lasting impact in their community.

“Girl Scouts has a very specific way on how girls are supposed to do a project.

The girls are supposed to find something that bothers them, or they see needs to be fixed, and try to solve the problem. It doesn’t matter how many times they have to go back to the drawing board; the whole idea is that they follow through and make a difference,” Galinis said.

Each girl was excited about bettering

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the community so through education, they decided to come up with a sign that could be displayed at parks and trails throughout the area. With excitement and a raring-togo attitude, the girls began dreaming up anything they could for their new project.

By the September meeting, the project was in full swing.

“At our September meeting, each girl took their idea and started to put it together. One girl took charge, breaking out jobs; three girls would draw individual pictures of the beaver, the world and the bag, the two others would come up with the saying. Within just a minute, one of the girls came up with the saying and they had their sign,” Galinis said.

While the project was about bettering the planet by keeping littering to a minimum, the girls also learned about the importance of budgeting, how many signs to create, and the process of paperwork to get approval by the town.

“This was their project, this was all them.

They needed to see this through. It’s easy for an adult to get something like this done.

They need to learn from this experience.

It’s their money, they are the ones who are going out and earning this money so I can’t just step in and make the decisions for

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so dedicated, have wonderful ideas, work as a team and have fun! These girls really amaze us and bring us to happy tears,” Galinis said.

To date, two of the five signs that the girls designed are displayed in Mount Olive.

The remaining signs will be posted in Morris and Sussex counties.

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them,” Galinis said.

For Galinis and Perry, they couldn’t be prouder of their scouts. What started out as the leaders being best friends, they’ve also shown their scouts life skills.

“We are the leaders of the troop and best friends. That’s why we have girls from two different towns who all from day one meshed perfectly together. These girls are

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Wishing You a Joyful Holiday Season & a Happy New Year

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A

Staying Healthy During a Global Pandemic

midst a global pandemic (and as we approach the colder months), it is more important now than ever to keep your immune system strong. By improving your immune system, otherwise known as your body’s own defense system, you can help to prevent unwanted illness. With the emergence of COVID-19, we have all been conditioned to wear masks, keep safe distancing and wash our hands regularly, but what else can you do to improve your immune health?

Believe it or not, Acupuncture is one way to give your immune system a boost! Research has shown that Acupuncture can help to improve immune health in various ways including the following: • Increases Red and White blood cells as well as T-Cells (all essential to immune health) • Increases levels of Interferon ( the immune systems messenger hormone) • Increases blood and lymph circulation • Reduces stress hormones • Reduces inflammation

In addition to Acupuncture, here are some other ways you can enhance your immune health: • Get adequate sleep. Your body heals while you sleep and if you are overworked or overtired, your body is less likely to fight pathogens it comes into contact with.

• Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits. Fruits and veg-

gies contain nutrients and antioxidants that your body needs to function optimally.

• Avoid sugar and junk food. One study revealed that immune cells were paralyzed for 30 minutes following the consumption of sugar! If your immune cells are taking a break, how will your body fight pathogens??

• Exercise! Not only can physical activity help to flush out pathogens, but exercise helps to circulate lymph, White Blood Cell’s and Antibodies (all major players in your body’s defense system).

Manage Stress with Acupuncture and Meditation! Your body is more susceptible to infection when stressed. Keep those stress hormones down!

Continue following CDC guidelines!

For more information on Acupuncture and immune support call Mount Olive Acupuncture and Wellness 973.537.7978 or visit us at www.mtoliveacupuncture. com. We are taking extra precautions during this pandemic to keep everyone safe! *Mount Olive Acupuncture does not claim to prevent, treat or cure any disease.

Improves sleep Enhances mood Stimulates blood flow Shortens recovery time Relaxes tight muscles Releases the body’s natural pain killers

Reduces inflammation Improves mobility

1 OLD WOLFE ROAD • Lakeview Plaza • BUDD LAKE • 973-527-7978 www.mtoliveacupuncture.com

Page 6 • December 2020 • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Mount Olive Sisters Create OPERATION: Gametime For Troops

L

By Steve Sears illyana and Jillian DiPietro’s dad, Captain James DiPietro, a member of the New Jersey Army National Guard, may be serving time overseas this holiday season, but his daughters have created something nice that will bring he and his comrades a bit closer to home.

The girls, who are in 5th and 4th grade respectively at Sandshore Elementary School in Budd Lake, created OPERATION: GAMETIME FOR TROOPS, a nifty, caring way to bring a smile to our overseas troops during the holidays. Based on their love of coloring and playing cards with their dad when he is home, the duo set out to gather new board and card games, as well as coloring books and puzzle books to be shipped and enjoyed by abroad servicemen and women.

Lillyana initially came up with the idea the second week of October. “Well, I thought, ‘Everybody’s deployed, and can’t really spend time with their families, and they should at least have fun overseas, so they can play with games, color, and stuff like that.’”

She messaged Mayor Rob Greenbaum, who called Vanessa, the girls’ mom, immediately. From there, the endeavor

grew legs and ran quickly. On the Amazon Wish List page (which the girls also thought of), some of the items the young ladies suggested were a Corn Hole game, Tic Tac Toe, and much more, and they also set up a Go Fund Me page (www.gofundme.com/f/ OPERATION-GAMETIME-FOR-TROOPS) with an initial goal of $500, which was surpassed late October. “A lot of people have been generous in ordering off the Amazon Wish List,” says Vanessa, “and that ships directly to us, so our dining room table is full of card games, and puzzles, and books.”

As for the total amount of items collected, Jillian says while giggling with happiness, “It’s too much to count.”

Vanessa is proud of her daughters’ efforts. “I think it’s a way for them to get involved and feel closer to dad while he is away, and they’ll be providing stuff for him, but also for the rest of his unit that’s over there.” Bins for collections were set up at Mount Olive Township Hall and Flanders Fire up until November 15, but donations are always accepted for the troops. “We have addresses all over the Middle East and overseas,” she adds.

OPERATION: GAMETIME FOR TROOPS has been an education for the sisters.

“We have learned that people are very

generous,” Lillyana says, “and we are really, really grateful for them.”

“I learned that it’s really nice to provide people with things that can help them spend more time with each other,” says Jillian.

“And have fun with each other,” says Lillyana, who also adds that OPERATION: GAMETIME FOR TROOPS may not be just

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a one-year thing. “We will probably do this every year so they can have some fun and maybe lift their spirits up.”

And Easter is approaching, and the wheels are turning for another like idea.

“We can probably send them plastic Easter eggs with stuff in it like candy,” says Jillian.

Vanessa adds, “I think it’s very important that we support our troops anyway we can.”

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Mount Olive Students Set an Excellent Example of Kindness

M

t Olive residents, Leah Welsh and Gabby Damelio, both started a bracelet making business back in June to sell and raise money for the Mt Olive food pantry. When COVID started, they were both concerned about families out of work and without food. They raised

$100 and donated the check to Susan Morse and Barbara at the pantry.

Left to right front: Lindsey Perkins, Victoria Solecki, Leah Welsh, Gabby Damelio, Elizabeth Huxtable, Back row: Genevieve Vuono, Susan Gillece, and Alicia Perkins.

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Community Comes Together to Deliver 150 Thanksgiving Meals

Erica Tattersall

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 President’s Club (Top 1% of Weichert Realtors) NJAR Circle of Excellence 2016-19 Gold, 2013-2015 Silver, 2011-12 Bronze ST JUSTED I L 86 Highland Terrace Denville List Price $475,000

5 bedroom, 2 bathroom custom home w Generac generator. Kitchen w oak cabinets, center island breakfast bar, pantry, SS appliances and recessed lighting. DR w built-in cabinets. LR w beautiful stone - surround gas log fireplace. Gleaming hard wood floors. Freshly painted. New carpets in BR 3 and hall. New vanities and light fixtures in baths. Enclosed front porch area leads out to deck. Large patio off of kitchen w walkway to open backyard area. First floor MBR w sitting room and HWF. Basement w finished workout room. Security system with cameras. Optional lake privileges with year-round activities. Close to public transportation, shopping and restaurants in downtown Denville. PWPS, natural gas, & ductless mini split cooling. Addt lot 627 .066 acre included in sale.. this is not a shared driveway.

ST JU OLD S

5 Crestwood Court Independence Twp. Sale Price: $495,000

Magnificent 4 BR, 2.5 BA colonial. 2 car garage and fin basement. Awe-inspiring kitchen remodel features quartz counters, custom cabinets, tile backsplash, rec lighting, under cab lighting, farm house sink, custom pantry, breakfast bar, SS KitchenAid appl. Separate wet bar off kitchen includes ice machine, wine refrigerator and custom wine storage. Composite deck w hot tub, gas line for outdoor grilling or patio heater. FR w vaulted ceiling, skylight, built ins and WBFP. DR/LR w crown molding. Hickory solid HWF. MBR BR 2 double closets, MBA remodeled w tile surround shower w frameless glass enclosure and marble vanity. Guest BA remodeled w marble double sink & tile surround tub and shower. Garage with loft storage. California closets throughout. Generac whole house generator. Fully fin basement. Virtual tour available.

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80 Durham St Pompton Lakes List Price $375,000

Charming four bedroom, two and one half bath cape cod home ready to move in. Updated eat in kitchen with oak cabinets, stainless steel appliances, tile backsplash, large pantry, double sink and recessed lighting. Hardwood floors in living room, dining room, and first floor bedroom/ office. Dining room with tray ceiling and recessed lighting. Master bedroom with spacious walkin closet. Many rooms with ceiling fan and light fixtures. Finished basement with kitchenette, full bathroom, and Bilco door. Laundry room with utility sink. Tons of storage. New privacy fence.

Large composite deck steps down to paver patio great for entertaining. Storage shed. New sewer line. Anderson and Pella windows. Outside plume and not flood zone. 360 Tour: https://kuula.co/ share/collection/7P1dr?fs=1&vr=1&sd=1&initload=0&thumbs=1

ST JU OLD S

3 Grosbeak Allamuchy Twp. Sale Price: $202,450

Light, bright & airy one bedroom, one and a half bath townhome situated in Panther Valley.

Main level with hardwood floors. LR with wood burning fire place flanked by window/ door for great natural light. Remodeled kitchen w granite counters. Dining area w French doors to large deck with serene views. Remodeled powder room. MBR w vaulted ceilings.

Updated master bathroom. Great loft area, w new carpet, located off master bedroom for possible office or sitting area. HVAC 2018, and water heater 2016. Freshly painted in neutral colors. Basement area is laundry room only w new washer/dryer. Panther Valley is just 1 hour from NYC. Amenities include use of 3 outdoor pools, tennis, volley, and basket ball courts, playgrounds. Owner will leave all furniture with full price offer.

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1 S. Cadillac Dr. Somerville List Price: $379,900

Wonderful three bedroom, one and a half bath and one car garage home in Somerville. Remodeled kitchen with granite counters, cherry cabinets, recessed lighting and stainless steel appliances. Living room and dining with hardwood floors steps in to sunroom great to enjoy your morning coffee. Vaulted ceilings and Skylights in living room offer great lighting. freshly painted. Level, fenced, open lot on corner. Updated bathrooms. Laundry conveniently on main floor. Newer roof 2014, Close to Vibrant Downtown Somerville shops, restaurants, train/bus, etc. Convenient location to the Somerville schools, parks, and recreation, and transportation.

ST JU OLD S

46 Wild Iris Lane Allamuchy Twp. Sale Price: $378,000

Immaculate Willowick model with 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath, 2 car garage town home with finished daylight basement in Panther Valley’s newest community. Only cul-de-sac location in Meadows.

Mountain views. Custom home w gourmet kitchen featuring granite counter, SS appliances, tile back splash, under cabinet lighting and custom coffee bar. Open floor plan. LR with electric FP (gas line installed for conversion). Cozy privacy-partitioned patio & weather-sealed ground-level deck with, river-rock, retractable Sun Setter awning/privacy scrim, & all season foliage. Casement window sliding doors w/ UV-reflective pained glass for additional privacy and temperature regulation. Large family room for entertaining. Gleaming HWFs. All newly hardwired LED/soft-white/dimmable lighting throughout. 360 virtual tour available.

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4 Helm’s Mill Rd Hackettstown List Price $519,000

5 BR, 3 BA colonial! Open floor plan. 4147sf includes fin walk out basement. EIK remodeled 2018 w custom soft close cabinets, pullout drawers, granite counters, center island, recessed lighting, HWF, pantry, & SS appliances (Kenmore Elite double oven). Sliders to large composite deckw retractable awning. Private yard. Kitchen open to 2 story FR w wall of windows. LR features gas fireplace w wood surround. DR & LR w crown molding. Open loft overlooking foyer and FR. MBR w sitting area and 2 WIC. MBA features heated floors, double sink, soaking tub, and updated stall shower. Laundry, bedroom, and full bath located on 1st floor. Open slate porch. Garage fin w epoxy floors & insulated garage doors. 14KW Generac generator. Smart home. Leaf gutter guards. 2 heat/AC, 4 zone IG sprinkler system. 360 Virtual Tour: https://www.vantagepointnj. com/id-20201020

ST JU OLD S

137 Goldfinch Terrace Allamuchy Twp. Sale Price $355,000

Beautiful 3 BR, 3.5 BA town home in Panther Valley. Open floor plan. Remodeled kitchen w custom cabinets, granite counters, SS appliances, custom back splash, rec lighting, built ins, under cabinet - lighting, 2 drawer dishwasher, built in garbage/recycling, built in pantry/spice rack, rev osmosis system, SS sink & delta faucet. Brazilian cherry HWF main level (ex office) & 2nd floor.

Great room w cathedral ceiling, WBFP and sliders to double deck. Serene views. Remodeled powder room. BR w updated full bath and walk in closet. Second generously sized bedroom w updated full bath. First floor office or potential BR w wood floors built in wall unit. Lower level w potential in law suite w bedroom, living area w FP, full bedroom & sliders to patio. Amenities: 3 pools, tennis, volleyball, BB courts, & playgrounds.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 9

Community Comes Together to Deliver 150 Thanksgiving Meals

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Fighting Stigma and Domestic Violence During Times of A Pandemic

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By Victor DeSousa he latest reported data reveals that approximately every 7 minutes somebody becomes a victim of Domestic Violence in New Jersey. It is however impossible to determine what the real figure is since a lot of cases still go unreported due to the Stigma imposed upon the survivors. Here is however what we know in the general sense. During such a delicate moment in our lives when we are caught wondering what to do during and after a pandemic that places our existence at risk, how we live and our ways of life, it becomes more important than ever not only to maintain but to enhance the importance of our humanity, our sobriety and sanity. In a period of quarantine, domestic violence places all these values in danger exacerbated by a forced coexistence with the aggressor in a confined space without a time limitation.

To designate those in the receiving end of the abuse as survivors illustrates well the “at risk” condition in which they find themselves. The Stigma still attached to such an inhumane condition is as serious and invisible as the virus itself. We know from a 3000 feet perspective that the aggressor does not strike just once. The abuser does not just impose him/herself physically but she/he will also inflict emotional blackmail as well. We know there are many aspects behind a survivor’s permanency in such a scenario. Abusers use tactics to instill power and control over a survivor. Abusers participate in a

cycle of violence that can include four phases; tension building, explosive incident, reconciliation and a calm phase. During the tension building phase abuse is

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often emotional or mental, a survivor might start to feel as though they are walking on eggshells and there is an overall feeling of tension in the relationship. The explosive incident includes an escalation in violence where the abuser attempts to increase control over the survivor through aggressive behavior, including through emotional, physical, sexual, or financial means. During the reconciliation phase abusers will attempt to make excuses or rationalize their violence, often blaming the survivor for causing an outburst. The last phase is a calm phase, often referred to as the ‘honeymoon’ phase, and here an abuser may buy gifts, spoil a survivor, and promise that a violent act will not happen again. As we know, abusers cycle through these phases in various degrees and may skip a phase of calm completely. An abuser’s use of the cycle of violence continues for the purpose of maintaining power and control over another person. We know that aggression increases gradually in most cases, yet initially the abuse is subtle and does not reveal itself as nefarious as it had originally appeared. In fact, the aggressor tends to mine all the survivors’ defenses by dismantling and disintegrating them until the latter falls into complete isolation. We know that in such cases the psychological consequences of a verbal aggression will result in a feeling of incremental dependence on the abuser. Breaking the Barriers, the initiative from the Hackettstown Stigma Free continued on page 11

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Task Force is trying through this monthly publication to provide free guidance and in some cases advice/recommendations from certified technicians in the field.

These suggestions and opinions from our experts have the aim of reaching out not just to those who are presently survivors, but also those with knowledge of abuse happening among their family and friends.

The Stigma attached to these cases, causes the survivor to assume the blame for the condition, in which they are forced to live as a mechanism of defense against the fear of the aggressor and the fear of humiliation, adopting a false sense of strength to block any appearance of weakness. The consequences can often lead to tragic ends due to an increased feeling of invisibility and unworthiness.

With the limitations of the safeguards imposed to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 Virus and the adoption of virtual platforms, we are trying by all means available within our capacity to keep our mission alive and relevant. We hope that this article and those circulated in the

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future will tackle all the issues in our society where stigma prevents those targeted by aggression, those with issues of substance dependence, those with mental illnesses, those with suicidal ideation and survivors of domestic violence can freely seek and find the help they desperately need.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRISIS HOTLINES continue to be available for survivors of interpersonal violence whose safety is at risk and who need to alter their own safety plan with a professional. RESOURCES for anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide, which are not uncommon while living in such a stressful and uncertain environment.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached 24/7 at DASACC’s shelter currently provides shelter to survivors, their children, and their pets. 1-800-7997233 if you are unable to speak over the phone, LOVEIS to 22522 DASACC’s Crisis line continues to operate to link survivors to counselors or provide confidential shelter and can be reached at (908) 4534181.

Page 12 • December 2020 • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

R

The Various Advantages to Shopping Locally

esidents of a given town or city are often encouraged to support local businesses by looking to these firms to fill their needs. Small businesses are not just integral parts of communities, employing millions across the country, they also are operations that fund the very communities they service.

Efforts to promote shopping local appear to be working. According to the Commonwealth Financial Group, over the last several years there has been a shift in consumer purchasing behavior marked by a preference among consumers to support locally owned shops and stores over big-box retailers and even online shopping.

The following are some key reasons why shopping locally not only benefits small business owners, but also the communities they call home and the customers they serve.

• More money stays in the community: According to the American Independent Business Alliance, for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 remains in the community. Conversely, only 43 percent of every $100 spent at a chain retailer stays in the community.

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They employ millions of Americans by creating roughly two-thirds of private sector jobs.

Local business owners also tend to hire people who represent the demographics of the communities where the business is located, which may include historically underserved populations.

• Diversity of products: Local stores tend to diversify their products and services to meet the needs of the local communities, whereas chain stores often stock their shelves based on national demands.

• Personalized service: A small business owner may be more inclined to go to great lengths to make customers happy because the long-term success of the business depends on customers becoming repeat customers.

• Personal connection: Knowing the people behind a business facilitates a connection not easily achieved with other companies.

Customers may celebrate when a favorite business succeeds and look to spread the word about that business because they feel like they played a positive role in its success.

Shopping locally has gained momentum and is fueled by the many advantages to supporting local businesses.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 15

Fun Facts About Three Kings

T

he holiday season begins with Thanksgiving, and many people believe that the festivities come to a close after ringing in the new year. In fact, for the faithful, the Christmas season does not end until January 6 (January 12 in Eastern churches).

January 6 marks the celebration of the Epiphany, sometimes referred to as Three Kings Day, Little Christmas, the Baptism of Jesus, and Día de los Reyes. The Epiphany is celebrated 12 days after December 25.

In fact, that is where the phrase the Twelve Days of Christmas, and the song of the same name, originated.

Christians believe that the real celebration of the holiday season does not begin until December 24 and then continues through Three Kings Day. While the four weeks preceding Christmas, also known as Advent, are supposed to be times of reflection and prayer in anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ, the 12 days of Christmas are times of great celebration.

On the Epiphany, children may leave their shoes out for presents in a similar fashion to the way stockings are hung. Gifts are

exchanged, reminiscent of the three gifts the magi presented to the Christ child of gold, frankincense oil and a resin called myrrh. The gold represented Christ’s royal standing. The frankincense marked Christ’s divine birth. Finally, the myrrh stood for Christ’s mortality.

Many celebrants will bake ring-shaped cakes in which they will hide plastic baby figurines that are meant to symbolize Jesus Christ. The cake is called The Kings Ring, or Rosca de Reyes.

In Latin America, the three magi are more prominent figures than Santa Claus and are greatly revered by children and adults alike. Until the 19th century, the Epiphany may have been considered more important than Christmas day. However, those tides have largely shifted outside of Latin America and areas dominated by large populations of people who have Latin American heritage.

Christmas and New Year’s garner considerable attention during holiday celebrations, but Three Kings Day also is an important date on the calendar for faithful Christians.

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Page 16 • December 2020 • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Hackettstown Mom Honors Late Daughter’s Light and Legacy

P

By Jillian Risberg arents are not supposed to outlive their children. Yet Donna Walling has had to face that agonizing journey.

Her daughter Margaret was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in November 2012 and passed away 13 months later at the age of 12.

“As she fought for her life, our friends came together and started Smiles for Margaret to raise funds for all the expenses that you incur: medical, driving back and forth for treatment and fun for making her smile,” says Walling, a Kienlen Lattmann Sotheby’s realtor.

Margaret and her mom discussed turning Smiles for Margaret into a charity when the 11-year-old was better because they never thought her diagnosis was going to turn so dire.

They didn’t get the recovery they prayed for. But Walling honored Margaret’s legacy, only wishing her little girl was there to see it.

“I made it into a charity, a 501c3 after she passed away. Remembering Margaret in that way means a lot to me,” her mother says.

Everything happens for a reason.

“If my reason was that I had to have a child that went through this so that I could help other people; that’s what I’m gonna do,” Walling says.

Smiles for Margaret is all about being there for those in need.

Sometimes an extra little something can make a world of difference, according to the realtor.

“I don’t look for gratitude, I just know in my heart it’s the right thing to do and it makes me feel better,” she says. “Somebody needs their rent paid, I can help you.

Somebody needs to put oil in their tank so their house is warm for their kid, I can help you. I like to be the emergency phone call for the Valerie Center (supporting children with cancer and blood disorders since 1976). I like to take care of families that are local, either I know of or people refer me to.”

And Walling just keeps giving back.

“We’ve helped buy cars for people, there was a little girl in Vernon whose parent’s car died, she had no mobility, was in a wheelchair and (couldn’t) get to physical therapy in Morristown,” says the realtor. “We’ve paid for Ubers for people because they didn’t have a car — they lived in Hoboken and needed to get to Morristown to the Valerie Center for treatment for their child.”

She knows just how that feels.

“Margaret had radiation and chemotherapy and was one month away from the one-year mark, which is huge — and it (had) spread throughout her brain and

spinal column within weeks,” Walling says.

“October she had a clean scan, by November her spine was full.”

Then the 11-year-old stayed home and did a short round of radiation so she could still have mobility and not be incontinent.

But it got to the point where she wasn’t able to do it anymore.

“It was just a few times to keep the tumor size on parts of her brain from growing that

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would cause more trouble. She was gone five weeks after they said that — in the time we spent driving back and forth to Morristown for that 13 months with radiation and chemo,” says the realtor.

When it comes to her daughter, Walling says ‘there was never a stage of Margaret that I didn’t enjoy.’

“From the moment she was born, she was continued on page 17

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 17

Daughter’s Light and Legacy...

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continued from page 16 just the best baby and kid,” she says. “She had some learning disabilities — apraxia, so she didn’t talk right away. But we were so in sync I knew exactly what she wanted and what she needed and she didn’t have to say anything.”

Margaret was Walling’s mini-me, says her mother.

“She looked like me, she talked like me and she had the same bad attitude,” the realtor says.

According to Walling, Margaret’s brother is 20-months younger and speech-wise the siblings were pretty much on the same level.

“So when she was three he was just starting to babble. She had limited verbal ability at the time,” she says. “But as they grew up together a lot of their milestones were a lot alike and their language skills. She did surpass him at one point and it was kinda neat — like having twins.”

Walling says Margaret was very artistic and loved horses and animals.

“She was just a great, happy kid,” says the realtor. “I was lucky to have the two of them because they were best friends and he misses her a lot, as do we all.”

And the youngster was always a fighter, as far as having obstacles, according to her

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mother.

“So when it came to all she had to go through, the radiation and chemo, she just kept fighting through it. “Alright, it’s one more thing; if you want me to do, I’ll do it,” Walling says Margaret would tell her.

She supported her daughter every step of the way and made her feel good.

“That’s how I wanted every doctor and nurse to come into the room,” says the realtor. “If you’re not going to cheer her on, don’t come in. You had to be 100 percent, ‘you’re going to get through this,’ prayers and all, everybody had to be in it. That’s how we dealt with it, positive attitude.”

Walling says you have to determine ‘quality versus quantity’ of life and what’s best for your child.

“It’s a sucky decision to have to make but parents have to have that conversation (with themselves),” she says. “So I brought her home and I took care of her from the beginning to the end.”

Walling and Margaret had an unbreakable bond and the realtor says she walked alongside her daughter.

“It’s a gift when you’re with somebody when they die ‘cause you really get to clear your soul — and they get to tell you things. I call it the ‘gift’ and I received that gift.”

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Page 18 • December 2020 • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Mendham Township Library Welcomes New Adult Program Director

M

By Steve Sears ount Olive High School Library Media Specialist, Sandi Duffy, was in mid-October welcomed as the new Adult Program Director for the Mendham Township Library.

Duffy will not have to juggle her responsibilities at either location. Her Mount Olive position is full-time, and for Mendham she will both spend a few hours a week at the library itself, and also work from her own home. Also, her roles in Mount Olive and Mendham are somewhat different. At the high school, she works with students all the time, teaching them research skills and how to cite sources, pulls books for different projects, hosts book talks and discussions with the students, as well as supporting the teaching staff itself for all their needs for the students in the school. “In all this craziness,” she adds, “we even have set up curbside pickups for our students. So, it’s mostly learning, educational, research.” However, she does host some events for students as well. “I do programs at the high school, too,” she says, singing the praises of the support she receives from the school district. “We do

a lot of lunch time programs. We have the bands come in and play, we have students do poetry readings, we have our drama club come in and do some numbers from the musical they’ll be performing. So, we do some programs at the high school for our students to enjoy also.”

In Mendham, Duffy’s is mostly the adult event planning role.

Duffy majored in English at Penn State University, and then attended Kutztown University where she got her master’s degree in Library Science. She also attended William Paterson University and received a master’s degree in Educational Leadership.

An experienced librarian, Duffy, a Vernon resident, also has event planning experience. After her school days at Kutztown, she worked for a New York City based advertising agency, and she planned events for physicians in the pharmaceutical industry. She did that for a few years before turning to the educational realm.

Duffy, who is in her fourth year at the high school, explains her Mendham role.

“I certainly want to continue the great programs that they have for their adult audience. They really have some wonderful

things going on, and I’m also trying to secure some wonderful programs.”

Secure she has. On Thursday, December 10, journalist Evan Weiner virtually visited and discussed “1967: The Summer of Love”, and on January 7, Art Educator Janet Mandel presents “Claude Monet: Obsessed with the Natural World”. Finally, on January 28,” A W.A.S.P. Takes Wing: The Women Airforce Service Pilots of WWII”, as (from the library website) “Carol Simon Levin tells the story of the amazing WASPs through the eyes of Ann Baumgartner Carl, the Jersey girl who trained as a WASP, became the only American woman to testfly experimental planes during the war, and the first American woman to fly a jet airplane!”

Duffy, who in her spare time enjoys spending time with her children, son Aidan (16), and daughter, Ava (14), speaks to the quality of both libraries. “The Mount Olive school district – they’re very supportive.

They’re very open to trying new things and change. I really have run into no obstacles there in that way. They’re student-centered, and they’re proactive in modernizing things. And at Mendham Township Library,

although I’ve not been there that long, so far my experience has been very similar. I’ve been able to run with the type of programs that I think would be interesting and I think people would enjoy.”

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 19

All of us at Heritage Properties thank you for allowing us to serve your real estate needs. Our Heritage 'family' wishes everyone Happy Holidays and many blessings in the New Year!

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Page 20 • December 2020 • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Hackettstown’s Colonial Musketeers Junior Fife & Drum Corps Celebrates 45 years

S

By Steve Sears tarted in 1975 in order to commemorate the United States’ 1976 Bicentennial, the Colonial Musketeers Junior Fife & Drum Corps of Hackettstown is celebrating 45 years in 2020.

“I actually grew up as a fifer in the Colonial Musketeers,” says Kelly Felsen, who joined as an 8th grade filler for the marching band and is now the Director.

“I had already joined that in school, and I went all through high school as a marching member of the Colonial Musketeers, and I will say it’s truly unlike any other group that’s out there. Not only musically is it such an amazing opportunity, but it’s such a family and tradition the corps instills upon not just me, but all of its members is so incredibly unique.”

Morgan Graham, who is 23 years old and joined the corps as a fifer when she was 11, agrees. “The Colonial Musketeers Fife & Drum Corps is one of the most unique musical experiences you can have in our area. We have a very nurturing and supportive environment perfect for kids of all ages to expand their musical knowledge.

We welcome any new kids who wish to join in our traditions.”

The group accepts both those with instrumental experience, and those without. “There’s no experience necessary in order to join on fife or on drums,” confirms Felsen. “We encourage everybody to come and try it out. We teach everybody not only the musical skills but also the marching skills needed.” Also, if you are an active marching member, a scholarship for college is offered after high school graduation.

The corps has about 24 active members, and the group has an obvious strong patriotic side to it. Felsen, who teaches 4th and 5th grade band in the Sussex-Wantage regional school district, explains. “Our uniforms and instruments are replica of the things the continental marines would use back in the 1770s. So that aspect, both drums are not necessarily you would see in a high school marching band. They are more like the ancient snare drums and base drums. We all learn all the patriotic tunes and we march in a number of different events. All of our corps members learn everything from “Yankee Doodle” to all

of our service songs, and we interact with members of the American Legion, and the Elks Club. Just being able to have those connections with members of the armed forces, especially at such a young age, it’s

something very special.”

For Graham, now an instructor, the junior fife and drum corps has been her home away from home. “I started playing continued on page 21

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Colonial Musketeers... continued from page 20 the fife when I was 11. When I tested to march, I started in the color guard marching with the rifle. I worked hard and kept learning song after song until I earned my spot in the fife line. By the time I was 16, I made it all the way to a level 4 as a fifer.

When I turned 17, I was chosen to be the fife sergeant and call commands and lead the corps. It was in that same year that I was the sergeant for the Musketeers at the Northeastern competition. I spent many

weekends on the Colonial Musketeer bus traveling all over the area, performing in parades, ceremonies, and other gigs all year round. Even after I graduated high school, I still would come back to Hackettstown to perform and help teach the younger kids.

Now, as an adult I am an instructor for the fifers, and occasionally, I dust off my uniform to perform.”

For Felsen, taking part is as special now as when she was in 8th grade, and she sees the pride in the current youngsters. “I am

so proud of these kids and what they’re doing,” she says. “They work so hard, not just musically, but socially. We’re all a family.”

Graham alludes to the fact that the Colonial Musketeers are a part of the history of Hackettstown. “When you drive onto Main Street,” she says, “next to the Welcome to Hackettstown sign, you can see another sign that reads, Home of the Colonial Musketeers, the Pride of

Hackettstown. The Colonial Musketeers are known all over as a group of incredibly dedicated, self-disciplined, and talented kids who come from all over - not just Hackettstown - to celebrate a genre of music that isn’t very well known. We have kids from age 8-21 marching in uniform at all skill levels and somehow they manage to march as one.”

Visit www.colonialmusketeersjrcorps. org for more information.

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Local Startup Sports Apparel Company Grows by Being Different

P

By Steve Sears enn State University student, Tyler Johnson, knew what he wanted to do.

Always involved in athletics and a gym goer, he viewed apparel being worn by himself and others and wanted to come up with his own concept. “One of the things I didn’t like was the quality of the clothing that I’ve worn to the gym. Another thing was I would usually get stuff I would pay a lot of money for and would have blank backs. I like to have a design on the back as well.” And he’s definitive about that.

“Something big, something different, the Pegasus wings,” he says, also mentioning that, when a customer walks down the street wearing the apparel, others will know the design – his design - right away.

Welcome to Pegasus Athletics, born in Hackettstown thanks to Tyler Johnson and friend, Colgan Crane, with Luis Hardenber recently making it a trio.

Johnson and Crane (also 21) are 2017 Hackettstown High School graduates, and Hardenber, 37, is General Manager at LA Fitness in Easton, Pennsylvania. Johnson is a personal trainer at the location until he returns to his Penn State University studies in the spring of 2021. Johnson is the founder and CEO, Crane is in charge of finances, and

Hardenber oversees marketing. “When I started and Colgan joined me a few weeks after that in late February,” states Johnson, “it was going well obviously at first, but then COVID did hit and it became pretty difficult for a little while because nobody wanted to have in-person contact.” Pegasus Athletics did local, non-contact deliveries for free on front porches and into mailboxes. The group also turned to Social Media (Facebook and Instagram) and created their own website to help out with orders.

Hardenber, who has been in the fitness industry for about 10 years, came on board in August. “I’m always open to different kinds of opportunities, and Tyler came into the gym, and me being a New Jersey native, we kind of had that little bit of rapport. We sat down and we talked about his business, and I saw the opportunity with how the meeting went of taking this thing and really doing something different that other clothing companies don’t really do. With a background in B2B (business to business), marketing and sales, we took a chance and put out a product of designs and a presentation of what we want to bring to the table and see how it goes. In 60 days, we were able to successfully fulfill continued on page 24

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Company Grows... continued from page 22 our goal of orders, and we’ve just been riding the momentum, which has led into a showcase in a mall, out here in Lehigh Valley after Thanksgiving.” Views on the Pegasus Athletics social media pages have grown substantially, and the team has been peppered with opportunities. “We’re taking it day by day,” says Hardenber, “and week by week to see what direction we can take this in.”

The name? Johnson explains. “I was bouncing around a couple of different ideas and I was thinking how Nike kind of dived into Greek mythology. I tried a couple of different ones out and didn’t like the names.” When he went back to the drawing board, his dad recommended he look into the story of the battle of the Pegasus. His son, after learning more about the battle and tooling with the logo design, was sold.

Crane, a Centenary University student, says, “Right now, at the moment, we are only doing tops, and we’re going into sweatpants soon enough, and shorts. But right now, we have sweatshirts and t-shirts,

tank tops, crop tops, and stuff like that.

We’ve also been supplementing our orders through raffles; raffles are a big part of what we do. We’ve been very good to our customers.”

Per Johnson, the difference is that Pegasus Athletics gives back to the community. In addition to the before mentioned raffles, 25% of sales from a recent hoodie line went to Breast Cancer Awareness. They will also take part in a Lupus event in May 2021, an upcoming suicide awareness function, and other upcoming events.

Johnson explains what makes Pegasus Athletics different. “We take everything very seriously, especially customer service and getting things to people on time, making sure people are getting stuff that they like, they’re colors they like…we want everyone to be happy, and we want to keep a good reputation. Design-wise, we have good, comfortable clothing, and it’s way more affordable than a lot of those bigger brands out there. I plan on trying to keep it that way.”

Visit www.pegasusathleticsco.com.

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For Mount Olive Author, It’s All About the Writing

M

By Megan Roche ount Olive’s Martina Palladino never set out to be a published author. Although she loved writing as a kid, Palladino never imagined that she’d find her way to writing as an adult. Palladino, who does eyelash extensions, has found her joy as she produces her novel series, Thru Eyes of REM. Palladino’s books are all based on a recurring dream that she had over 20 years ago.

“I had a dream and it was one of those dreams where I just remembered all of it,” Palladino says. “It was like these two people in the woods were meeting for the first time. It was really weird but I was the girl who had these magical powers and Tommy, he was the guy. I kind of just threw it to the side but the dream kept coming back night after night.

It stayed with me for a long time and then one day it just went away.”

After shelving the idea away, Palladino’s two children had to produce a school assignment where they each had to write a children’s book. Her two children encouraged her to write her own book and they could turn their individual books into a family project. Palladino once again shrugged off the idea, not knowing what to write about.

“My daughter knew I loved vampires so she told me that I should write about that. What was weird was that they didn’t know about the dream I had. It didn’t come to me until I was driving and I decided to just do it. I came home that night and wrote the first two chapters and it was pouring out of me. I couldn’t type fast enough,” Palladino said.

Thru Eyes of REM is a fantasy novel that is designed through each characters story. Book one is based on the character Martinka, book two is based on the character Tommy, and book three is based on the character Demonica.

Book four will be released in May or June 2021. What makes these books unique is that there are two different versions; an adult version and a censored version. However, both stories remain the same.

According to Palladino’s website, the books “all started with a dream… she dreamt of him, and he, of her. Martinka has known him, in her mind, always, and yet has no idea if this man she calls ‘Tommy’ even exists. Tommy, an old and powerful vampire, and heir to the throne of the Vampire Kingdom, has longed and searched for her for nearly a thousand years. He has foreseen her in his dreams, his visions, and believed his ‘Queen’ would one day exist.

The wait is over… their story begins in a clearing where they see each other for the first time. Tommy’s evil rival, Derek, also an old vampire, takes notice and sees the look in their eyes. He knows he needs to put an end to what has not yet begun. King Josef, Martinka’s uncle, needs to protect the connection they share. He vows to himself that all will unfold once the true King and Queen take over his reign. As Martinka and Tommy are drawn together, Derek manages to take her away. Martinka promises to return, but the evil witch, Demonica, who abducted Martinka when she was just a child, tricks them all so she can pull off the body switch of the century and become Queen. Neither Demonica, nor Martinka’s parents, are aware of the magical serpent Martinka has, or that she is mystically linked with

this ‘pet’ she calls Jinx. Jinx possess extraordinary powers, as does Martinka, and together, they perform feats of magic unlike anything any other supernatural being has ever bared witness to. Meanwhile, Tommy spirals into an illusory dark madness, battling between reality and delusion. He meets Lorenzo, whom he refers to as his savior; the one who was sent to help him end his existence. Martinka reappears, Tommy rejects her, someone dies, and Martinka magically vanishes. Moments later, the dead reawakens… continued on page 27

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Mount Olive Author... continued from page 26 So, as their story began in a clearing, it ends in another clearing… for now. This magical, action-packed, adventurous, love story is complex, yet insightfully clear in its message. Sharing their journey will challenge you emotionally; you will be exposed to five convoluted points of view as you headhop between characters that reveal their loyalty,

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 27

respect, power, deceit, despair, delusion, lust, longing, and love. Travel with them to six different lands filled with intrigue and angst. And yet, this is just the beginning…”

Palladino primarily sells most of her books at local conventions. She’s been easily found at the Supernatural convention, The Originals convention, and the Vampire Diaries

convention. She sets up her own little booth and sells her own books. The response to the books? Palladino says it’s been overwhelming.

“People keep coming over to my booth and they are so excited to find out when the next book is coming out. People want a taste and to know when to expect the next book and it makes me feel so happy and accomplished,” Palladino

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While at these conventions, Palladino is often approached by aspiring writers asking for the best piece of advice that she can give them when it comes to writing. For Palladino, she urges anyone who is thinking about writing to just do it.

“Everyone has an imagination and I’ve had people approach me at conventions and say ‘I’m an aspiring writer’. I tell them to just keep writing and when you come upon whatever story you are writing that you think you can turn into a bigger story, its an amazing feeling. You should always believe in yourself and just know that you can do it,” Palladino says.

Palladino’s books can be found on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Books A Million, and more. For more information, visit www. martinapalladino.com.

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Page 28 • December 2020 • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

A Christmas Story

T

By Richard Mabey Jr. he Christmas of 1973 was so very dear and precious to my heart. I was to learn the important spiritual lesson to never give up on a goal, even in the midst of trials and tribulations. I was 20 years old and my cousin, Howard Palmer, was 19. We both were born in early September, our birthdays were just a few days apart. So that was just one of the common bonds that welded our spirit of brotherhood to each other.

Howard suffered from Muscular Dystrophy. From about the time he was five years old, he was confined to a wheelchair. We were close cousins, in all so many ways we were closer than a lot of brothers are.

Howard was a very intelligent boy. He was an incredibly talented artist. He developed his own unique style in both oil paints and water colors. His forte was landscapes.

But, he also had a great talent for painting portraits.

In mid-December of 1973, Howard came down with pneumonia. It was a most sad thing. When he went into the hospital, I cried. When my mom told me the news that Howard was in the hospital, I took a walk in the woods behind my house, to the towpath of the old Morris Canal. I sat upon the foundation of my great grandfather’s old icehouse and I cried my eyes out. I knew that the odds were that Howard was not going to pull through.

Evening came and that night, I cried myself to sleep. Howard was always like a brother to me. During the summer time, I would hop onto my bicycle and ride the ribbon of road of old Route 202, down to Howard’s house. We both lived on Route 202, about a mile apart. Howard lived in Montville, I lived in Lincoln Park.

We would sit at the kitchen table and I would write stories and Howard would draw and paint. I would arrive early morning to Howard’s house. I would help Aunt Bert, Howard’s mom, get Howard up from bed and into his wheelchair. Howard and I used to listen to Cousin Brucie play the hits on the old WABC-AM radio station, as we fulfilled our artistic and creative destinies upon that humble kitchen table.

Aunt Bert would be stirring soup at her stove, with home-made bread in the oven.

Aunt Bert would make soup from scratch that would put canned soup to shame. At lunch time, I had the high honor of cutting the warm bread into thick slices. Howard loved to sop up the soup with his buttered

bread.

When I saw Howard in the hospital, he was working on a painting for his dear mother. It was to be a surprise. It was early morning and there was Howard sitting up in his hospital bed, with his little bottle of oil paints spread all about his bed. It was a most heart-warming scene.

Howard was fully aware that his time on this earth was coming to a close. The good Lord blessed Howard with a private room, in the hospital. Howard and I talked and talked and talked about the hereafter, during my many times of visiting him in the hospital. While we talked, Howard would keep on working on his painting for his mom.

Howard told me that his blessed angel had come to visit him several times, since he was first admitted in the hospital. He spoke of his dreams of visiting with our relatives who had passed on. There was an ethereal calm in Howard’s voice. A kind of acceptance that he knew he was soon to leave this earthly existence and cross over to Heaven’s Gate.

Howard did finish his painting for his mom. It was a beautiful painting of a garden, with a white bench in its midst, a tall maple tree, and an angel in the sky. Truly, it was one of the most beautiful paintings I have ever seen in my entire life.

Christmas arrived. I had the high honor of being present, in Howard’s hospital room, when Howard gave his painting to his mom. I had brought the Christmas wrapping paper for Howard to wrap it with, the day before.

Aunt Bert cried when she opened her son’s heart-felt gift. We all cried. Grandma Kemmerer was there. Grandpa had passed away just two years ago. But, I felt Grandpa’s presence in spirit. My mom and dad and sister, Patti, were also there. Howard’s dad and his two brothers and his sister were also present.

Howard’s words were very simple. He looked at each and every one of us and simply said, “don’t cry. Please don’t cry. I’m soon going to be going Home to be with the Lord.”

In early January of 1974, Cousin Howard peacefully passed away.

My cousin Howard was a most courageous young man. I still miss him very much. I still deeply mourn his passing. His kind words still gently echo in my heart, “please don’t cry. I’m soon going to be going Home to be with the Lord.”

A rare photo of Cousin Howard (left-hand side of photo) in his classroom.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer.

He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@

hotmail.com. Please place the wording “My Life Weekly” in the subject line.

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Local Writer Shares Special Connection to President Jimmy Carter

F

By Megan Roche or then 33-year-old Bloomfield resident Steve Sears, the computer operator was slowly finding that his work was no longer fulfilling to him. Always having an interest in writing, Sears submitted many of his poems for consideration for publishing.

That’s when all sorts of rejection letters came.

Stopping by a bookstore after a long day at work, Sears found former President Jimmy Carter’s book of poems, Always a Reckoning and Other Poems, and picked it up. A fan of what he read, Sears penned the former president a letter, thanking him for keeping poetry alive while in the White House. After attaching some of his own poetry, Steve put the letter in an envelope, placed the stamp, and off it went to the Carter Center in Atlanta, GA. Fast forward about a month to March 1995, an envelope from the Carter Center arrived in Bloomfield.

“I got the first page of my letter back. Both the second page of my letter, nor my poems were included in the response. The first page of my letter had a very kind note from him thanking me for writing to him, showing his appreciation for my liking his poems, and a PS that he liked mine,” Sears recalled.

This was no official correspondence though. Sears received a personal, handwritten letter from the former president.

“What’s unique about the letter is that he just handwrote a response on the first page of my letter. There was no official letter sent from the Carter Center on official letterhead.

There wasn’t anything really presidential about it at all. It was like he was writing to a friend. I remember telling my mom, and my

mom said, ‘that sounds just like him.’ He was just so down to earth and that and the document itself is something I value to this day,” Sears said.

That was the humble beginnings of where Steve Sears started his freelance writing career.

The letter still draws inspiration for Sears; it sits right next to his writing desk in his basement in a frame. Now 58 years old, Sears has made the freelance writing career lifestyle work for him. Looking back on his longevity in the freelance world, Sears passed along some advice to others who are looking to start their own freelance careers.

“Don’t let your career kill you and wear you down to the point where you don’t enjoy it anymore. You have to do something that you enjoy. No matter what you select, there are always going to be drawbacks, hard days, and peaks and valleys. But, you need to find out where the joy lies for you,” Sears said.

That letter from President Carter came in 1995, and this year marks the 25th anniversary of Sears receiving the reply. Sears plans on sending a follow up letter to the Carter Center with a photo of the original letter, just to thank the former President for providing some inspiration for a very new writer.

“A lot of people don’t know this, but when you write a letter to the White House, the interns respond to the letters. Our Presidents and Vice Presidents rarely see the correspondence that is sent to them, except in rare cases. This letter was very important to me, it was a huge source of encouragement, and it fueled my thirst for continuing on this writing journey.”

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 31

Operation Noble Eagle Veteran Honored by Morris County & Mt. Olive

T

he Morris County Freeholders and the Mount Olive Township Council presented the Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medal to David F. Marciano of Flanders, N.J., a long-time paramedic and EMS worker whose lengthy service in the New Jersey Army National Guard included protecting the nation from further assaults following the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

Marciano, who joined the National Guard in 1989, was activated under Operation Noble Eagle after terrorists crashed hijacked-passenger planes into the twin towers in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. and a Somerset County, PA. field. He was presented the medal during a brief ceremony at the American Legion Post 342 in Chester Township, where officials noted that his service included guarding port facilities, power plants and infrastructure before he was honorably discharged in 2004.

“Your mission, which included performing security at military installations, airports, nuclear plants and port facilities, underscored the very definition of the domestic responsibility of the National Guard – to protect the homeland,” said Freeholder Director Deborah Smith. “Your professional career has also involved a dedication to public service as you have spent 21 years as a paramedic and 25 years as an EMS. For your dedication to duty, Mr. David Marciano, we thank you.”

Marciano has worked as a paramedic with St. Joseph’s Health in Paterson since November 1999 and as a paramedic per diem with University Hospital in Newark since July 2012.

Mount Olive Council Vice President Alex Roman and

Councilman Greg Stewart also honored Marciano at the small event, which was deliberately conducted with a minimal number of dignitaries because of pandemic protocols. Also participating were Michael Williams of the Morris County Veteran Services Office, who presented a brief history of the medal being established by the Freeholders in 1999, and Chester Township Councilman Mike Inganamort.

“I’m honored that you come from Mount Olive Township.

You are a shining example of the kind of residents we have not only in Morris County, but in Mount Olive. Thank you once again for your service,” said Councilman Roman.

Marciano is the adjutant at the American Legion Post

342. Post representatives who attended the ceremony included Finance Officer Larry Oppel and Sergeant-at-Arms Hal Saks.

Marciano was a sergeant when he was honorably discharged from the New Jersey Army National Guard after serving 15 years at various bases in Florida, New Jersey and elsewhere.

He also has volunteered his time with the Boy Scouts of America. He and his wife, Diane, have two sons: David F. Jr., a Mount Olive High School Senior attending the welding technology program at the Morris County Vocational School, and Landon, a 5th grader.

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Was Santa Claus Invented in Morristown?

T

By Henry M. Holden he image of Santa Claus is iconic. He strikes a portly figure, with a fluffy, white-as-snow beard, red coat with a white faux fur collar and cuffs, white fur-cuffed trousers, a red hat with whitefur trim, white gloves, and black belt and boots, carrying a bag of gifts for all good children. His jolly delivery makes young and old find a warm spot in their heart for this legend. And he is fondly remembered through the illustrations of Thomas Nast.

Thomas Nast (1840-1902) and his family moved from Germany to Elmhurst, N.Y. when Nast was six years old.

Nast was not a good student in the normal sense of the word, spending much of his time doodling. When his parents put him in art school when he was thirteen, he flourished almost overnight.

The original drawing, Santa was an elfish-looking figure wearing a brown fur suit with stars on it. Nast’s Santa grew in size and shape and the suit evolved into the ensemble that resembles the image of the jolly St. Nick that is ubiquitous today.

The first image of Santa Claus appeared

in the 1862 Christmas issue of Harper’s Weekly, a political magazine of the day. By this time Nast was already known for his political caricatures.

The image was not the iconic and beloved figure we know, but a likeness of Nast in a Union encampment giving gifts to the Union soldiers, basically saying they were the good soldiers, and Confederate soldiers were the enemy, and would not get any gifts.

The Santa Claus idea had existed before Nast’s first illustration in 1862. Nast drew a picture of Santa Claus, inspired by a poem composed forty years earlier by Clement Moore who had written, “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” better known as “The Night Before Christmas.” Moore had created the poem for the amusement of his six small grandchildren. But his wife had recorded the poem in the family Bible; and later made its way into print. Nast apparently read the poem and drew Santa Claus, with sleigh and reindeer, much as Moore had described him. Nast also modeled some of his early depictions of Santa after his own continued on page 33

Santa has evolved into the iconic figure that children love. (Credit Henry M. Holden)

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Santa Claus... continued from page 32 image, so, a lot of his early Santa Claus images resembled Nast.

Nast provided Harper’s Weekly with annual Christmas drawings until 1886. It was during this time that the iconic image we know today evolved.

Nast, a long-time Morristown resident, and Clement Moore, American

professor of Biblical languages were responsible for creating the Victorian image of Santa Claus that we still know and use today. They gave the world a new image of St. Nicholas, one that would live in the hearts of children for generations to come.

Nast’s Christmas themed work allowed him to use the Morristown neigh-

borhood in which he lived and its backdrop of spires on the town’s churches, to drawings views of the town frequently in his Christmas drawings. In the latter part of the 19th century, there were no less than seven churches within a few blocks of Nast’s Morristown home, and most of them still exist.

Nast and his family lived

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in a house on Macculloch Ave, (Villa Fontana) across from the Macculloch Hall and Museum (which today holds a large collection of Nast’s work). The house still stands but is under private ownership.

This side of Nast’s work is significantly different from the world of political cartoons he is most famous for. Nast is most remembered for his cartoons that took down, “Boss” William M. Tweed, and the Tammany Hall Democratic party’s political machine in New York City, in 1871.

Tweed was arrested, broke out of jail, fled to Cuba and Spain, before being extradited and dying in a New York City jail, in 1878.

Nast is often considered to be the “Father of the American Cartoon”.

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I

Eat and Drink Smart to Fend Off Cold and Flu Season

t’s no secret that a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and veggies can deliver important vitamins and nutrients for better health, but many of your favorite foods can actually help support your immune system, too.

In addition to precautions like avoiding people who are sick and washing your hands often, you can influence your immune system through what you eat and drink.

Stay hydrated. Keeping well hydrated can be difficult during the winter months, especially if you spend most of your time indoors. A warm drink like this flavorful Orange Spiced Tea provides a strong dose of vitamin C along with a delicious dose of hydration.

Keep the produce going strong. Fresh, seasonal fruits and veggies often come to mind during warmer months, but produce like citrus, leafy greens and root vegetables are plentiful during cold and flu season, too.

“Consuming the whole fruit is the best way to ensure you gain the maximum nutritional benefit,” Dr. Poonam Desai said. “When speaking with patients, I recommend seeking nutrients like vitamin C from whole food sources, rather than supplements, especially with a vitamin C-rich fruit like California oranges.”

Get a natural boost of vitamins. Vitamins A and C, found in fresh citrus, are two key nutrients that support your body’s natural line of defense, your immune system. Just one orange offers 90% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C, and California Navel oranges are in their peak season – just in time for the height of cold and flu season.

Get inspired with more ideas to boost your immune system with essential vitamins and nutrients at

californiacitrusgrowers.com.

5 Ways to Get More Vitamin C Pick heavy fruit. When shopping for citrus, choose fruit that smells fresh and feels heavy for its size. The heavier the orange, the juicer it’s likely to be.

Explore versatility. Fresh citrus like California Navel oranges make a nutritious addition to sweet and savory dishes, beverages, cocktails, sauces and more.

Use the whole fruit. Reduce food waste by consuming the flesh, juice, zest and peel. Try squeezing juice and grating zest into a smoothie, using orange segments for a vibrant salad or combining diced Navels with red onion, cilantro and jalapenos for a zesty salsa.

Retain vitamin C content. Vitamin C is water soluble, so to retain as much as possible, eat citrus fresh, avoid overcooking and use minimal amounts of water.

Refrigerate for longer shelf life. Keep your citrus fresh longer by storing it in the refrigerator at a temperature below 42 F. To get the most juice out of the orange, bring it to room temperature before cooking.

Orange Spiced Tea Recipe courtesy of California Citrus Growers 6 cups water 1 clove cinnamon or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 6 tea bags 1 cup California Navel orange juice 1/2 cup white sugar 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 slice California Navel orange Bring water and cinnamon to boil; let cinnamon

dissolve. Remove from heat and add tea bags; soak at least 5 minutes. Remove tea bags.

In separate pan, bring orange juice, sugar and lemon juice to boil. Stir until sugar dissolves.

Pour juice mixture into spiced tea.

Garnish with orange slice and serve hot.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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Tips to Improve Wellness and Prevent Stroke

troke is often thought of as something that happens to older people, but more people under 50 are having strokes due to increased risky behaviors, such as smoking and untreated high blood pressure.

Strokes don’t discriminate, according to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease and stroke. They can happen to anyone, at any age. About 1 in 4 people worldwide will have a stroke in their lifetime. However, up to 80% of first strokes may be prevented.

“Healthy habits can protect and improve brain function and lower your stroke risk,” said Dr. Lee Schwamm, MD, American Stroke Association volunteer chairman and executive vice chairman, department of neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital.

In recognition of World Stroke Day, the American Stroke Association offers these five tips to help reduce your risk of stroke and maintain mental sharpness as you age: Keep blood pressure in mind and under control. High blood pressure is the No. 1 controllable risk factor for stroke. Work with your doctor to manage your blood pressure and get it into a healthy range (under 120 over 80).

Eat colorful fruits and veggies. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables can lower blood pressure over time, which may help reduce your stroke risk. Some fruits and vegetables, such as mangos, avocados and blueberries, are especially rich in vitamins and minerals that improve brain function and heart health.

Rest up. Getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night can improve brain function both today and long-term. A soothing bedtime routine and avoiding screen time before bed can increase the quality of sleep you’re able to get. Sleep-related breathing issues may also increase stroke risk, so seek treatment right away if you suspect sleep apnea or similar problems.

Meditate. Emerging science shows practicing mindfulness and being aware of your breathing may reduce blood pressure. A quick way to be mindful anytime is to pause, notice your breath and observe details in your surroundings.

Take a hike. Getting active activates brain cells, encouraging them to grow and connect more efficiently. Aerobic exercise, like going for a walk, also gives your arteries a workout and makes your brain more resilient to reductions in blood flow that can cause strokes. To maximize health benefits, the American Heart Association recommends adults get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (or a combination) and two days per week of moderate- to high-intensity muscle strengthening activity.

“These simple suggestions are great for everyone to follow, even if you don’t think you’re likely to have a stroke,” Schwamm said. “While many adults don’t think they are at risk for stroke or reduced brain function, the reality is that nearly half of all adults in America have high blood pressure, and untreated high blood pressure is one of the most common causes of stroke and also causes up to 60%

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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How to Spend Added Time Making Memories

aking time to reconnect with loved ones is a wish topping many lists this holiday season, so set aside the chaos and commit to doing more this year.

More of what you truly enjoy, that is.

These time-saving holiday hacks from the Chinet® brand can help curb your time commitments so you can focus on personal connections and celebrating good cheer with loved ones instead.

Spread out prep time. If you’re busy putting the final touches on a meal as guests begin to arrive, you’ll miss out on the excitement as the party begins. Rely on tricks to spread your meal preparation out over the days before your event, such as making sides and casseroles ahead of time and freezing them so all you have to do on the big day is pop them in the oven. Mashed potatoes are a notorious last-minute time suck, so make them early in the day and keep them warm in a slow cooker. Just add a bit of cream and stir periodically to keep them soft and fluffy.

Simplify cleanup. After enjoying a meal surrounded by loved ones, there’s no reason to halt the conversation while you slip away to bring order back to the kitchen. Cover dishes and put perishables away then return to your guests for the quality time you

deserve. If you use disposable tableware, there’s even less to worry about later. For example, Chinet Classic White products make cleanup easy so you can spend more time with friends, family and guests. The plates and bowls are strong enough to serve the heaviest, messiest meals with style then you can simply toss them when you’re done.

Shop local for shortcuts. Local businesses are feeling the crunch of 2020 in a big way, but you can give them a boost while doing yourself a time-saving favor. Pick up a pie or specialty dessert from a local bakery.

Inquire about family-size sides from the family restaurants in your community. Also remember to check with school-age children you know, as many seasonal fundraisers offer pre-made holiday desserts and other treats you can share with guests with minimal effort.

Get out of the house. If you’ve spent too much time this year looking at your own surroundings, getting away from it all may lift your spirits while saving the hours you’d pour into getting your home ready for entertaining. Community groups with their own facilities often have space available to rent, and these spaces are typically large enough to maintain social

distancing requirements and are subject to rigorous cleaning protocols. Alternately, if you’re keeping the guest list small, renting a vacation home offers the opportunity to turn the seasonal celebration into a short road trip for added memories and joy. With some simple decorations, you can create a fun atmosphere for your holiday event and skip the headaches of hosting at home.

Go short and sweet. If the idea of a fullfledged dinner event is stretching you too thin, look for festive ways to scale back. For example, a dessert-only party lets you gather with loved ones and keep the focus on the company rather than the food. Plan themed stations with different styles of desserts and consider asking family members to help stock each station with their own favorite treats. Add a touch of style by placing a stack of Chinet Cut Crystal dessert plates at each station so guests can sample all their favorites while they mingle. The collection also includes cups and stemless wine glasses ideal for a beverage table or single servings of desserts like mousse or parfaits.

Find more ways to manage your time this holiday season at MyChinet.com.

Celebrate Like It’s 2020 After a whirlwind of a year, this holiday season promises to be a little different than those of years past. Instead of lamenting what won’t be the same, treat this year as an opportunity to deck the halls in a whole new way.

Invite technology to the party. With group gatherings and travel restrictions likely to continue in many parts of the country through the holiday season, there’s a good chance you may not be able to gather with everyone you’d like. However, the pandemic has shown how simple it can be to use technology to stay connected. Go ahead and schedule a virtual party or make time to jump on a video chat during your celebration to include those who can’t be there in person.

To help add a touch of normalcy to the

festivities, consider packaging and sending small boxes of party essentials in advance to each person who’ll join the virtual party.

Make giving a group effort. Helping those in need is a tradition many people honor around the holidays, but this year your giving is likely to be especially impactful. When you join efforts with family or friends, your contributions can go even further, and it’s a way to bond over your shared experience.

Consider volunteering as a group at a food pantry, adopting a family or two together or finding another local cause that could use some extra help and count your blessings while you enjoy the extra time together.

Simplify gift-giving. As families grow, the gift lists get longer. However, especially in a year like this, not many wallets have expanded to keep up with the pace. Forgo the time and money required to buy for everyone in the family and start a new tradition by drawing names and instead of buying smaller items for a lot of people, put a little more toward a single item your recipient truly wants or needs. (Family Features)

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Holiday Presents for Every Person (and pet) on Your Holiday List

ith a variety of personalities and interests likely on your holiday shopping list, finding the perfect gift for everyone can be a daunting task.

Rather than spending countless hours browsing online or walking up and down store aisles, consider this array of gift ideas that can put you on the path toward successful shopping during a holiday season sure to be unlike any before it.

With more people spending time at home, gifts that can keep the house clean, showcase team spirit or provide a simple way to pass the time can be hits. Of course, you can also ship a tasty meal directly to a loved one’s door or give that four-legged family member an extra special treat.

Find more holiday gift-giving inspiration at eLivingtoday.com.

A Tasteful Holiday Gift Give the gift of flavor this holiday season with a full spread of Omaha Steaks favorites in one collection. Loaded with doubletrimmed, famously fork-tender Butcher’s Cut filet mignons, tender and crispy baconwrapped filet mignons, flavor-packed burgers, classic boneless pork chops, juicy boneless chicken breasts, gourmet jumbo franks, all-beef meatballs, a savory side and dessert, it’s a memorable and delicious gift

everyone can enjoy. Find more flavorful holiday gift ideas at omahasteaks.com.

The No. 1 Gift Pick Give the sports fan in your life an authentic piece of collectible memorabilia to showcase his or her team spirit, such as this Patrick Mahomes Super Bowl LIV MVP Dynasty Banner from Winning Streak Sports – The #1 Premium Licensed Product in Sports. Created to commemorate some of the greatest teams, schools and players, these limited-edition high stich count banners, which are available framed or unframed, are made from 100% wool blend felt with iron-safe backing and include a hanging cord for easy display. Find more upscale, gift-worthy sports memorabilia at winningstreaksports.com.

A Riveting Read Provide the bookworm in your life with a true thriller like “Pilate’s Cross” by J. Alexander Greenwood, a murder mystery based on a true story. A sleepy college town in the middle of nowhere is just the fresh start John Pilate needs, but he didn’t count on uncovering a deadly conspiracy. In over his head, Pilate risks it all to get to the truth in this tale exploding with action, crisp dialogue and quirky twists. Visit amazon. com to find the book.

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By Elsie Walker offers. Expires 8/31/20 ost people take are caps, t-shirts having clean water , and bottled water. for granted. They to Since just turn on a faucet drink gregate where other homeless do, Chillou veterans conhomes and out in their to non-ve comes the water. t gives the items terans as well. if a person is homel However, what In the past, ess? Where does Founder and Directo he or she get water? were donations of items receive the supplies it shared r of Operation Chillou d from drives groups or from ki, recalled that done by individuals. The t, Ray Chimilesa homeless vetera summe Memorial Day – n, who had sepsis, while waiting for Labor Day. Howev r collection is done died COVID19, an er, this year, becaus Operation Chillou ication with pollute operation because he took his e of t can’t take donati med- cal items, d river water. ons of physibut is taking monet Chimileski noted, from the organi ary donations to zation’ that mer items. buy the sumPeople can donate from the New Jersey s own experience and inform ation throug Department of operationchillout.org h its website at Affairs, “one in Military and Vetera www. /. every five homel n Chimileski shared ess people is a In addition to the that Operation Chillou veteran”. the homeless are to t goes to where problems of staying need for water, there are also distrib ute items (soup the ters, etc.) Seeing cool in the summe kitchens, shelwinter, how does a homeless vetera one do that when r and warm in the tion Chillou t will give this “peace n, a member of Operathe streets? he or she is living on winter items, offering”; the summe and the Helping solve the r or the items “a peace organization’s card. Chimileski ing homeless vetera problems of homelessness and calls offering” becaus help- may have ns receive the service e homeless vetera had bad experie are the two focuse ns nces in the past s of Operation Chillou s they qualify for the service in trying to get s they need; they out is New Jersey’ t. Operation Chillmay have becom s oldest all volunt and given up. They e frustrated eer mobile outrea veterans and homel may be wary of ch for out wants ess men and wome help. Operation these homeless its membership n.

ChillStarted in vetera is made up of both 2000, their advoca ns to know that veterans and civilian te in helping to get serves all of New it will be Jersey, northeast them the service s. It they qualify Pennsylvania, and s for which and also help them al Rhode Island. coastChimileski shared with other needs.

Chimileski noted that Operation was “selected that this year’s Chillout will be to be the statew distribution of different due to ide special projec 2021 of the New items COVID t 2020- ters are Jersey Federation closed. Also, Operati 19 restrictions. Some shelof Women’s Clubs.”

New Jersey State on (The to put up Federation of Wome its table and speak Chillout won’t be allowed est volunteer wome n’s Clubs is the one-on -one with larg- veterans. n’s service organi Operation Chillou homel a member of the zation in the state ess Ken Steffan, of Operati t will be deliver General Federation and usually gives ing the items it be given out to the on Chillout, gathers some of the out (and its cards of Women’s Clubs.)

Operating out of supplies to homeless. for Long Valley, just homeless vetera the organizations Operation Chillou one of the many ns) to distribute, like ways for Vetera t helps is throug the Supportive Serviceto to be. n Families (of the h giving out certain during the summe s Cathol items diocese of r and winter; in Chimileski noted the summer, those Newark), soup kitchen ic Charities of the Archthat COVID-19 restric items will also ed the organization s, etc. Operation tions have affectgo to other places Chillout in another way, where the homel too. has Operati cancel led its annua on Chillout ess are known benefits the organi l August Vet Fest fundraiser Putting our client which zation’s Rapid Respon s first for over and veterans rescue se Team Hotline 30 years Certified Publi Team runs 24/7/3 housing costs. “Our Rapid Respon c Accountant 65. We receive calls daily at our se mated hotline Personal Finan (609-619-0861) autocial Specialist from veterans. Referra ls come from many or about homeless agencies, first respon Peter G. Neuberg, sources: individ uals, CPA/PFS VA itself. We provid ders, family members and often Peter.Neuberg@hend the e tel stays and whatev no cost transportation and brief www.hendersonne ersonneuberg.com moer incidental items uberg.com cue the veteran are needed to resfrom the homel ess crisis. While safe, we arrang secure and e or provide access 245 Main Street ing solutions. In to longer term Suite 201 hous2019, we rescue d an average of homel ess vetera Phone one Chester, NJ 07930 n per day - over new : 908-879-7624 300 individuals.”

Chimileski said Offer good thru Securities offered Fax: 908-879-2830 that those who 8/31/20 through BCG Securities, Inc. would like to suppor those efforts can Member FINRA & SIPC 856-393-19 visit t 50 nate to its vetera the Operation Chillout website to dons’ found at the bottom outreach effort. The donation link is of this page: www.o org/who-we-are/. perationchillout.

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Count Down to the Holidays with Your Pet Add more happiness to your pet’s holiday season with an option like this Merry & Bright Holiday Deck The Howls with Cookies Advent Calendar Dog Treat, which is available at PetSmart. Your dog has been good all year, so don’t forget to include him or her in the holiday countdown with an advent calendar of his or her own.

Find more holiday gift ideas for your pets at petsmart.com.

Give the Gift of Time Gifting your family a vacuum-and-mopin-one like the DEEBOT T8 allows you to enjoy the holidays and leave the cleaning to the robot. It provides hands-free cleaning and removes 99.26% of bacteria with its patented OZMO Mopping System. With no pre-cleaning needed and a runtime of more than three hours, it also detects obstacles with accuracy to avoid collisions and getting stuck. Learn more at ecovacs.com/us.

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Put a Zesty Spin on Weeknight Meals

D

inner in many households means foolproof recipes that families can count on, but those can become bland and boring. Finding new ways to put a twist on meals throughout the week adds fun to time spent in the kitchen while bringing new flavor to the table.

To help reinvigorate traditional weeknight dinners, chef Bobby Flay and Hidden Valley Ranch created the three-part Hidden Valley Ranch Night! series to debut dishes that bring bold flavor to traditional meals, such as these recipes for Ranch Crusted Burgers with Avocado Ranch Sauce and Ranch Seasoned Chicken and Mushroom Quesadillas with Tomato Salsa and Sour Cream. The series will provide a spin on weeknight staples to showcase the simplicity, versatility and zesty flavor of ranch seasoning when used to create family-friendly dinners any night of the week.

Find more information, including series episodes and additional recipes, at hiddenvalley.com/ranch-night.

Ranch Crusted Burgers with Avocado Ranch Sauce

Servings: 4 Avocado Ranch Sauce: 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup sour cream 1 tablespoon well-shaken buttermilk 1/2 teaspoon Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning kosher salt freshly ground black pepper 3 green onions, thinly sliced 2 avocados, peeled, pitted and diced Ranch Spice Crusted Burger: 1 1/2 tsps Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning 1 teaspoon paprika kosher salt freshly ground pepper 1 1/2 pounds ground chuck (80% lean) 2 tablespoons canola oil 8 slices American cheese 1/4cup water 4 brioche buns, split in half Avocado Ranch Sauce To make avocado ranch sauce: In bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, ranch seasoning, salt and pepper until smooth. Fold in green onions and diced

avocados; set aside.

To make burgers: In small bowl, whisk ranch seasoning, paprika, salt and pepper.

Heat large cast-iron pan or griddle over high heat. Divide meat into four 6-ounce patties and make deep depression in centers with thumb. Season each with spice rub on one side.

Add canola oil to pan and heat until shimmering. Place on burgers in pan, spice

side down, and cook until golden brown and lightly charred, 4 minutes. Turn burgers over and cook 4 minutes, or until they reach desired doneness.

Top each burger with two slices cheese.

Add water to pan and cover tightly with lid 10 seconds, or until the cheese is melted.

Place burgers on bottom buns and top each with avocado ranch sauce and top buns.

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1 Mt. Olive Road • Budd Lake • 973.448.0300

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 41

Established 1991 Morris County’s Top Restaurant

44 Main Street, Chester 908.879.1887 www.benitostrattoria.com

FREE DELIVERY!

Serving Lunch & Dinner Open 6 Days a Week Closed Mondays

Ranch Seasoned Chicken and Mushroom Quesadillas with Tomato Salsa & Sour Cream Servings: 4 Tomato Salsa: 4 plum tomatoes, seeded and finely diced 1/2 small red onion, finely diced 1/2 jalapeno, finely diced 1 lime, juice only 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped into ribbons kosher salt freshly ground black pepper Quesadillas: 2 tablespoons canola oil 1 1/2 pounds cremini or button mushrooms, thinly sliced 2 teaspoons Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning, divided 12 flour tortillas (6 inches) 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese 16 ounces roasted or rotisserie chicken, shredded kosher salt freshly ground black pepper canola oil 1/2 cup sour cream tomato salsa 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

1 Egg Roll or (sm) Wonton or Egg Drop Soup

E

E

Brand New Dinner Menu

To make tomato salsa: In medium bowl, combine tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno, lime juice, olive oil and basil; season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.

To make quesadillas: Preheat oven to 450 F. In large saute pan over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add mushrooms and season with 1 1/2 teaspoons ranch seasoning. Cook until mushrooms are golden brown and liquid has evaporated. Set aside to cool.

Place tortillas next to each other on baking sheet. Sprinkle thin layer of cheese on eight tortillas. Add cooled mushrooms to four tortillas and shredded chicken to other four tortillas. Season each layer with salt and pepper. Stack tortillas to create four, two-layer quesadillas. Cover each with remaining tortillas; brush top tortillas lightly with canola oil and sprinkle with remaining ranch seasoning.

Bake 6-8 minutes until cheese is melted and tortillas turn lightly golden brown with crispy edges.

Cut each quesadilla into four pieces.

Garnish each slice with dollop of sour cream.

Add dollop of tomato salsa on top of sour cream and garnish with basil.

(Family Features)

FR

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Most major credit cards accepted Plenty of FREE Parking

E

E 973-691-8080 973-347-0557 LAKEVIEW PLAZA Route 46 & Old Wolfe Road Budd Lake, NJ

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General Tso’s Chicken or Sesame Chicken

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Page 42 • December 2020 • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

A

An Appetizer Worth the (Short) Wait

ppetizers are many people’s favorite part of a meal. From dips and finger foods to little treats and fried pieces of perfection, there is a wide array of considerations for a pre-meal snack.

Some appetizers are much more appropriate at certain events. For example, buffalo chicken wings are best enjoyed on game days, salads are normally served at showers and vegetable trays are a typical Thanksgiving Day classic.

However, there are recipes that are too easy to make and too satisfying not to serve at almost every festivity you and your family attend. This Easy Crab Rangoon shines above the rest for many reasons, but the main point of this heavenly sample is it’s easy to make and bake.

This appetizer is placed in the oven until it’s golden brown, topped with little green scallions with a creamy filling all packaged in a crispy outer layer.

Plus, the cream cheese is mixed with luscious amounts of crab meat. This is a seafood lover’s dream. Actually, it’s any appetizer lover’s dream.

To make this mouthwatering recipe, you only need a handful of ingredients and a few kitchen tools.

The little bites of perfection come out of the oven steaming hot, waiting to be topped with more crunchy, fresh scallions.

Once they have cooled for a few moments, they are ready to be devoured.

This bite-size, savory snack will be all the rage at family dinners and parties with the kids alike. They fit perfectly in the palms of hands and within a few bites, they are gone and your loved ones are asking for seconds.

Find more appetizer recipes that are simple and made to impress at Culinary.net.

Easy Crab Rangoon Servings: 12 Nonstick cooking spray 12 wonton wrappers 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 4 ounces lump crabmeat 1 scallion, sliced thin, green and white parts separated 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated 1 teaspoon soy sauce Heat oven to 350 F.

until smooth. Combine with crabmeat, scallion whites, ginger and soy sauce. Fill each wonton wrapper with filling. Bake until filling is heated through, 6-8 minutes.

Sprinkle with scallion greens. Serve warm. (Culinary.net)

Spray muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray. Press wonton wrappers into muffin cups. Lightly spray wrappers with nonstick cooking spray and bake until lightly browned, 6-9 minutes. Let cool slightly.

In medium bowl, beat cream cheese

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 43

A Crunchy, Caramelized Delight

W

3

$

hen it comes to fall, certain foods become an iconic representation of the season. Sweet treats are certainly part of the seasonal traditions for many families, especially when they call for the versatile flavor of apples.

You can make your next family dessert a hit with the rich taste of Country Caramel Apples, a simple take on a classic fall treat that calls for just three ingredients.

Just carve out round pieces of apple, insert toothpicks into each bite then let little ones help roll on the caramel dip and crushed pecans.

An option like the Envy apple, which has been referred to as “the ultimate apple experience” for its consistently balanced, refreshing sweetness coupled with a crisp, elegant crunch, adds just the right texture.

Easy to spot with their crimson red skin over a golden background that practically glows, the apples are naturally descended from Braeburn and Royal Gala apple varieties, bred by farmers who use time-honored plant-breeding methods. Plus, the apples’ bright white flesh is naturally slow to brown

when sliced, so they stay fresher longer.

Find more fall recipe ideas at EnvyApple. com.

Country Caramel Apples 3 Envy Apples crushed pecans caramel dip Using melon ball scoop, carve out round apple pieces by starting at skin and rotating inward.

Insert one toothpick into each apple piece.

Place crushed pecans in small bowl.

Roll round apple pieces in caramel dip then crushed pecans.

Place coated apple bites on serving tray and refrigerate until ready to serve.

(Family Features)

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Page 44 • December 2020 • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

NJStarz Carley Shimkus Hometown: Long Valley, NJ

F

By Steve Sears ox News Headlines 24/7 reporter on Sirius XM Channel 115, Carley Shimkus, is 5’ 10” tall, the perfect size to be a model.

And she welcomed after high school a very brief entry into the field, she appearing on billboards in Times Square and near Giants Stadium as the Party City “Gothic Angel.”

“It was a lot of fun,” she laughs. “I think it’s pretty funny, and I will be forever grateful to Party City for hiring me.”

Speaking of being grateful, modeling’s loss is thankfully a gain for television news. Shimkus has been with Fox News since her senior year in college and wouldn’t have it any other way. “I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else but Fox News. Let’s leave it at that. If they’ll have me, they’ll be stuck with me,” she affirms.

The popular news channel may not be aware, but they’ve been stuck with her since her childhood. She explains.

“Early on, when I was getting ready for school, my parents would always have Fox & Friends on in the background, and when I was eating breakfast, I was watching Fox & Friends.” She “saw” herself one day on that very screen, the person others would be watching deliver the news. “That’s why I wanted to do what I’m doing today.”

Shimkus hails from Long Valley, New Jersey, land of farms and serenity, a contrast to her current Gotham life in New York City, but a perfect mirror for her sunny personality. “It was a perfect childhood,” says Shimkus, who turned 34 on November 7. “At the time – and I think this is pretty common for kids, they don’t necessarily appreciate their surroundings because it’s just so normal to them – growing up in a rural area was just something that was totally normal to me. My parents’ house is on about 100 acres of historic land, and it’s protected land. It’s just one of those things when I grew up and I moved to the city, and then I went back to my parents’ house, I was so appreciative of the area I grew up in because it’s just gorgeous. You know, there’s sort of a negative perception to New Jersey – the (New Jersey) Turnpike and the more crowded areas – but it’s called the Garden State for a reason, and that reason is Long Valley. It’s gorgeous, and I have such a special place in my heart for Morris County.”

Carley’s father, Edward, is a chemist, and her mother, Zulma, a former flight attendant. “I’ve had so much help in my life, and the first two people who come to mind are my parents. They’re your heroes when you’re little, they’re the only people you know, and aside from God and him being such a big part of my life, they’re my shoulders to cry on. I would also give a big ole shout out to my grandma, who is 95 years old. She is amazing and one of the most funny, loving people I’ve ever met.”

Carley has one sister, Margot, an artist. “I think she’s beautiful. We have a great relationship. She’s the older sister. And she’s going to hate me for pointing this out, but I’m about 6 inches taller than her,” she says, laughing again. She then adds, “Obviously, growing up you look up to your older sibling, and I absolutely did. She is such a talented artist, and talented in so many ways…the smarter of the two sisters. She’s just such a great person.”

And then there’s her husband of 5 years, Peter Buchignani. “I look forward to Friday’s like it’s Christmas every single week, and Sundays are the tough days when you’ve got to fly back,” says Shimkus, describing her long-distance marriage to Buchignani, whom she met on her 23rd birthday. He works in Chicago, she in New York City. “He moved to Chicago in 2013, so we have been long distance for 7 years, and we’ve been together for 10, and we’ve been married for 5. Our whole marriage has been between New York and Chicago. We’re both very career minded people right now, and because my career is here and his is there, we make it work. We try to see each other every weekend, and because of this pandemic we didn’t see each other for three months (between March and Memorial Day). You have to make sacrifices like that, but that was sort of the national mood: everybody doing their part and staying at home. Honestly, I give him all the credit.

He is such an agreeable person; he goes the extra mile to make sure we get to see each other every weekend. I would say it’s about a 70/30 split, with him doing a majority of the travel to here. One day it won’t be like that anymore. It’s always exciting to see each other.”

Shimkus attended West Morris Central High School on the Chester and Long Valley township lines. “Academically it’s a great school,” she says, and the sporting events aren’t bad, either. “There’s nothing like a West Morris and Mendham football game. I still remember those nights and looking forward to them. There’s so much football pride at West Morris, and Lacrosse pride, and sports pride in general, so it was so much fun. Being there was a lot of fun, and going to West Morris really prepared you for college, and it eventually prepared you for the real world.”

Shimkus, who was also a Student Council member, relives briefly also participating in a fun “Bagel Rebellion.” “Okay,

yes, the ‘Bagel Rebellion.’ We had free bagels for Senior Day, and it got cut short, and everybody just walked out of school, and went to the football field. My mom was volunteering that day, so I personally was like, ‘Oh my gosh, do I go with my mom? Do I go with my friends?’ And it was this big moral dilemma for me. Being 17 years old, I went with my friends. It was squared away, and I think looking back the teachers knew that we were all graduating, and it was sort of like a fun last hurrah.”

“The ‘Bagel Rebellion’ will go down in the class of 2005 history.”

Shimkus, who loved the subject of English in high school, and also had a great interest in politics, attended Quinnipiac University, graduating in 2009 with a B.A. in broadcast journalism, and interning during her senior year for Fox News in Washington D.C. “They really put me to work in such a positive way and taught me a lot about TV,” she recalls. She was taken on a tour of Capitol Hill and Congress, and the station also allowed her to pitch ideas which found their way to live air. It was a morale booster.

“You’re learning and you’re young – and I’m still learning – and so for Fox to take an interest so seriously is a really great continued on page 45

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 45

NJ Starz: Carley Shimkus... continued from page 44 thing for young minds in this industry.”

After college, she was a news producer at Fox News, and in 2012, was named associate producer with the Fox Business Network, working for Don Imus and the “Imus in the Morning” show. “Imus gave me so much,” she says fondly of the popular radio Hall of Famer. “He gave me my first shot. I remember when I first got hired as his assistant. He ended up becoming sort of like a grandfatherly figure in my life. He gave me a chance; he put me on the air.

That doesn’t really happen in New York very often; you have to go to a smaller market first.”

“All in all, he was somebody who I owe so much to.”

Shimkus now has been at Fox for her entire career. She states, “I feel so blessed to have the career that Fox News has afforded me.”

Shimkus, like most, agrees: 2020 has been a unique year. “It really does feel like we’re living through history right now.

When you think about the layers of things that have happened on top of each other, with the global coronavirus pandemic, leading into social justice protests, leading into the recent hurricane that we experienced. When you think about it,

President (Donald) Trump was impeached last year into this year, and that feels like 100 years ago. So, it’s an unbelievable time to be alive, and it’s am unbelievable time to be looking at it from a news perspective where things are changing every single day.

And at the same time things are changing, things have kind of slowed down. Things have been canceled, and people are more grounded and staying at home and doing things virtually. I think that a lot of the things we’re seeing unfold right now are going to affect the course of history.”

Carley Shimkus relies on her faith daily.

“If you see me as sort of a sure-footed person,” she says, “it’s not because of me.

It’s because of God and my faith.” A prayer journal individual, she doesn’t know where she’d be in life if she couldn’t pray about her concerns or fall back on her faith.

“The church I went to was Our Lady of the Mountain, and that was a huge part of my upbringing. There was a Peer Ministry program that I spent a lot of time being a part of, and we did a lot of cool things both in and out of the community.” She employs her faith during her on-air work at Fox News. “Whenever I do a segment, and I’ve worked very hard on it, I always pray, ‘I hope that this goes the best possible way.’

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Page 46 • December 2020 • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Sensible Solutions for Holiday Gifting

P

ractically every year there’s at least one person on your holiday gift list that seems to have it all. One way to think outside the box is to sift through wants and needs to find something that can truly be put to use on an almost daily basis.

For example, tools, binoculars, vacuum cleaners, knife sharpeners and security solutions can serve as practical gifts that give your recipient a functional piece of equipment for daily life. These types of presents show your thoughtfulness and can provide your loved one a frequent reminder of the relationship you share each time the gift is used.

Find additional holiday gift ideas for everyone on your list at eLivingtoday.com.

An Eye-Catching Gift If you’ve got someone on your holiday gift list that enjoys pursuits such as sports,

concerts, nature viewing or stargazing, help bring the action closer with a gift like the Bushnell Powerview 2 binocular. An evolution from the popular line, the versatile, generaluse binoculars deliver clear views in multiple sizes and magnifications. The binoculars feature an aircraft grade, aluminum alloy chassis built for durability, and high-quality, soft-touch black rubber armor and brushed metal texture finishes provide eye-catching exterior design, easy handling and a confident grip. For more information, visit bushnell.com.

A Cut Above the Rest This holiday season, get the chef or outdoorsman in your life a gift that keeps on giving, such as the Wicked Edge Go knife sharpener. Made from high-quality materials, it’s easy to use for both new and experienced knife sharpeners. It offers

guided angle control, can sharpen a variety of knife types and makes cutting more efficient while increasing the longevity of your knives.

Find more at wickededgeusa.com.

Cleanliness On the Go Give the gift of cleaner living spaces anywhere and everywhere with the ultraportable Raycop GO vacuum, which uses UVC light technology to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria and viruses along with dust mites.

It’s less than 2 pounds, easy to assemble and stores in four pieces, making it simple to take in the car, to the office or on vacation.

It can even sanitize phones, handbags or luggage, and the battery lasts 30 minutes without recharging. Visit raycop.com for more information.

The Gift That Protects If you’re looking to secure connected toys and devices received this holiday

season, consider internet security products that allow you to protect your family. With advanced protection for all your devices, ESET’s Smart Security Premium solution helps protect against identity theft with the latest malware detection, online banking, password security and smart home support.

Find more security solutions at eset.com/us.

Get the Job Done Help the handyperson in your life finish the job quicker with the Milwaukee M12 Drill and Driver Kit from Ace Hardware, the only tool in its class with an all-metal locking chuck. Its compact, lightweight and durable design delivers comfort and efficiency along with an onboard LED light and fuel gauge to help increase productivity and avoid interruptions. Find more information and holiday gift ideas at acehardware.com.

(Family Features)

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive, Hackettstown Life • December 2020 • Page 47

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