United States Army Veteran Publishes First Novel
By Steve Sears
Francine Pozner Ehrenberg knew it was time to get words between covers. Her words.
The Randolph, New Jersey resident – a proud United States Army veteran and Vice Commander of Chester’s American Legion Post 342 - in April published her first novel, “America’s Candidate,” and in October had her first ever book signing in Mendham at Chapter One Book Store.
Ehrenberg said, “I began writing it as my New Year’s resolution in January. That is when I first started typing it, and I finished it in April. I could not believe it; I never thought I would do this or get to this point. I have never written a book before, and I had never really done anything except write a few poems as a kid. The idea of even writing a book, eventually publishing it, and having a physical copy in my hand in itself was unbelievable to me. So, to get to the point where I am actually at a store, and people are purchasing my book and ask-
ing me to sign it, is beyond anything I ever could have thought would happen for me.”
Ehrenberg, a graduate of both Rutgers Law School and the Civil Affairs Advanced Course at the JFK Special Warfare Center at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, was a Major in the United States Army (she was in the military for 12 ½ years) Judge Advocate General’s Corp. During deployment in Albania as part of Operation Cornerstone, she served as the advisory liaison between civilian officials and multinational military forces. While in the Army, Ehrenberg was also company commander of the 404th Civil Affairs Battalion and served as an International Law Officer, Command Judge Advocate, and Trial Defense lawyer. Her civilian career resume lists serving 20 years with the Supervising Deputy Attorney General, and the Deputy Bureau Chief of the Financial and Computer Crimes Bureau of the Attorney General’s Office and the Division of Criminal Justice.
Ehrenberg’s family is well-decorated with military service veterans. She said, “My father was in the Korean War, and my fatherin-law received the Distinguished Flying Cross in the Korean War. We also have four uncles who were in the military. We are a real military family, so there is nothing but joy and pride.”
Ehrenberg said that her career, in particular being a defense attorney in the military and then being a prosecutor as a civilian, really helped her understand not how to be a good writer, but just to be a person who sees all sides of everything.
Ehrenberg said, “You really get a perspective to be more sort of well-rounded, and just see things from all perspectives and really view the role, maybe not very narrowly, but really broadly. I really feel like every everything I have done has really lent itself to becoming a writer.”
And Ehrenberg is not finished – and there are folks who are thankful for that. She said, “I am thinking of a sequel. The people who
have read the book are almost demanding a sequel, which is wonderful. I love it when they call me up and say, ‘But you have to. You cannot just leave me hanging. You have to write a sequel’ So, I am working on that.”
“America’s Candidate” is available at allauthor.com/ amazon/90735/. For more information, visit https:// ehrenberg1.allauthor.com/.
Francine Pozner Ehrenberg and debut novel, “America’s Candidate” (Credit: Francine Pozner Ehrenberg)
By Richard Mabey Jr.
If This Be My Destiny
AI write the words for this essay, I have become more and more acutely aware of my physical failing. For it was only two years ago, that I walked and cared for over a dozen wonderful dogs in my little community. It was common for me, to walk five or six miles a day, walking my fur-lined friends, while their mommies and daddies were away visiting their adult children. Now, when I walk around the block, I become all so winded, the chest pains prevail. I am becoming more and more aware that it’s the ninth inning, the last scene of Act III of the play. I have been blessed beyond my wildest imagination. My father once told me that God had given me a very precious gift, to put words down on paper. He told me that it was my job to develop it, to hone it,
to fine tune it. I truly hope that I have not let my father down.
When I was two years old, my father built a little desk for me. Dad built a chalkboard onto it. My mother once told me that when I was just two years old, as she would cook supper, I would write down stories on my little desk, drawing stick figures. I never chose to be a writer, God chose for me to be a writer. I have no doubt about that.
There are too many people to thank. Without whom, I would be nothing. I would have been a piece of driftwood, bobbing up and down out in the darkness of the deep blue sea. I started writing articles for the Lincoln Park Herald, when I was 12 years old. I started writing them from a hospital bed at the Barnert Hospital in Paterson, while I was battling a case of full-blown
Rheumatic Fever.
In 1971, when my friends were attending prestigious universities, far from Lincoln Park, I humbly worked at the A&P grocery store, attended County College of Morris and wrote stories and articles for Youngtown Edition.
To Professor John Keeler, wherever you may now be, I earnestly thank you for all your kind advice. You told me to forget about writing about the great white whale, but rather to write about the little town I loved so much, the people I knew, and the old farmhouse that my Great Grandpa built. It’s a debt I can only recognize, but never repay.
In 1977, in a small town in West Virginia, I attempted to be a successful chiropractor. But I failed miserably. I was dirt poor, had only four or five patients, wasn’t eating right and living in tight quarters of a back room
If This Be...
of a store front office. The strep throat came and once again, I came down with Rheumatic Fever.
Returning to the old farmhouse on Mabey Lane, I fell into a deep, deep sleep. And in that deep sleep, I felt the unmistakable spiritual presence of Thomas Wolfe. And the endearing Southern gentleman, simply whispered to me, “write the stories of these people, whom you love so much.”
To all of my dear and precious readers, I share these heart-felt words. Do not ever let anyone kill your dreams. Walk away from your harsh critics. Believe in yourself. Dig deep to find your purpose upon this earth. Always give it 110 percent. Never, ever give up. Always remember, failure is not an option. Love, love, love the people in your life. Forgive, forgive, forgive. Never stop forgiving those
who have done you wrong. Hold dear this eternal truth, love is the most powerful force in the universe. Love God with all your heart, mind and soul. And, love all, even unto the creatures of the forest.
Richard Mabey Jr. is a
freelance writer. His second book is presently at the printer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ gmail.com.
KNIGHTS & SHADOWS
Old enemies once thought vanquished have returned. Can humanity, weakened by internal conflict and strife, hope to overcome these threats or is the time of humanity done for? The fate of the world rests on one man’s shoulder, Duke Aeden of Solstice. But can he hope to unite the forces of good under one banner when everyone has their own motivations and reasons for fighting, not all selfless and righteous? And which side will the vampire Celena chose? Her own kind or humanity? Only time will tell if she can overcome her nature and discover her humanity.
Yours truly at two years old, writing at the desk that my dear, kind father built for me.
Grandpa Mabey’s Last Thanksgiving
By Richard Mabey Jr.
Now, at 71, I find myself dreaming more and more about moments that I shared with my paternal grandfather, Watson Mabey. I walked the forest path with Grandpa, from the end of Mabey Lane to the tow path of the old Morris Canal, over a hundred times in my childhood and youth. During the Summer of 1965, when I was just 11 years old, Grandpa and
I came across the Magnificent Buck, on one of our walks to the old Morris Canal. It was a moment that, to this day, holds a dear and precious place in my heart.
I grew up in the old Mabey Homestead, that my great grandfather, William Mabey, built in 1890. On Thanksgiving Day, Dad’s sister and seven brothers, with their spouses and children, would gather at the old farmhouse, to feast and have heart-felt
Hand Painted Ornaments, Hand Crafted Jewelry, Photography, Charcuterie Boards, Florals, Resin, Metal & Fine Art, Apparel, Pottery, Soaps, Birdhouses, Lighted Trees, Stain Glass, Chocolates & So Much More
old farmhouse, to feast and have heart-felt fellowship.
My paternal grandmother, Bertha Mabey, would peel apples for apple pie, very early in the morning. While the women cooked in the kitchen, Dad and his brothers would gather around in the big, enclosed front porch and tell tales of deep sea fishing excursions, grand adventures of hunting, and fond remembrances of growing up together. And, in this mist of all this, Grandpa would sit in his easy chair, in the living room, with all of his grandchildren sitting on the floor at his feet, and tell
stories of working on the old Morris Canal.
There was something very different about Grandpa’s tales that he told in the morning of the Thanksgiving of 1967. I was 14 years old at the time and in my freshman year at Boonton High School. I was a sensitive boy and was gifted with a certain amount of intuition about things.
Grandpa had just had a stroke, a few months prior to that Thanksgiving Day. For all practical purposes, the stroke left his left arm almost useless. But Grandpa did his best to hide it.
This picture was taken on Thanksgiving Day of 1967. Grandma and Grandpa with their dog, Little Pixie, seated with their nine children behind them. Standing from left to right: Carl, Gerald, Edward, William, David, Dad, Violet, Earl and Harold.
Grandpa Mabey's... cont. from page 5
Usually Grandpa would tell stories of his remembrances of working as the Chief Engineer of Incline Plane Ten East, which was located at the Towaco and Lincoln Park border, along the old Morris Canal. But this particular Thanksgiving morning, Grandpa talked a lot about Heaven. He told us that he had a good friend in Jesus. And, he talked a lot about his brother Earl, who was killed in battle in France, during World War I. Grandpa spoke of angels, how they would visit him at night time. There was a solemn, reverent quality to Grandpa’s stories, during that Thanksgiving monring of 1967. It was mixed with a bit of sadness.
I remember Grandpa spoke of the Majestic Buck, as he called the wonderful, magnificent, mystical buck that walked the forest behind the old Mabey Homestead. He talked of a time, when he was younger and had the giant buck lined up in the scope of his rifle, but could not find it within himself to pull the trigger. Grandpa would often say that the Majestic Buck was a true mystical beast.
We used to eat our big Thanksgiving feast at about two o’clock in the afternoon. Grandpa always sat at the head of the dining room table and the three or four additional folding tables that were set up, from the dining room and onto the formal living room.
I remember that halfway through his Thanksgiving prayer, Grandpa began crying. It was the one and only time that I ever saw my grandfather cry. As tears flowed down his cheeks, he asked God to bless each and every one of us at the table.
On the seventeenth of May of 1968, the angels called Grandpa Home to Heaven’s Gate. That was over 56 years ago. Since the day Grandpa passed, I don’t think a day has gone by that I haven’t thought about him. I loved him with all my heart. Now at 71, I still mourn for my beloved grandfather. I still miss him very much. I would give up my entire collection of antique books and my whole comic book collection, to have just 10 minutes to once again talk with that dear, wonderful, kind old man.
Love those near and dear. Hold them precious in your heart. Forgive them of every wrong they may have ever done to you. Cherish every moment with the people you love and care for. For none of us have a written guarantee for tomorrow.
Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@gmail.com.
By Henry M. Holden
JPioneer Pilot Captain Janis Keown-Blackburn
anis Blackburn flew as the second officer on an Eastern Airlines Airbus A-300.
According to the Airbus Corporation, she was the first woman in the world to be a crewmember on that airplane. “I was 36 years old when Eastern Air Lines hired me in 1985. To get hired, and to be the first says something. It was exciting,” she said.
“I was about the same age or just a couple of years younger than the other second officers. I had more in common with them.” Most of them Janis worked with were in their early 20s. “We talked about the same things in the cockpit. My daughter was in college, and many of the second officers had kids in college or just starting. So, we have the same problems, tuition, etc. If you’re single, and 23 as opposed to married with a family then we have different things in common.”
At the age of 14, Janis had her first airplane ride as a civil air patrol cadet and immediately fell in love with flying. “I knew then I wanted to fly.” Two days after her 20th birthday, Janis earned her pilot’s license.
For the next few years, she remained on the edge of the flying community until 1977, when she got her instructors rating. She then taught for 3 1/2 years.
A year earlier, Janis had the opportunity to compete in the last Powder Puff Derby. “I remember hearing about it on the news when I was very small, maybe five or six and I remember the newscaster say, that ‘today is the powder puffers air race.’
“The newscaster began to talk about the race, and it was then that I decided I wanted to be in one. I didn’t know at the time that you had to be a pilot to enter.
“Years later it was exciting to be a contestant in that race. A friend worked for a company that agreed to sponsor us. The company went bankrupt two weeks before we left for California so my copilot, Claire, Korica, and I paid our own way.
“When we began to taxi out, we saw hundreds of spectators and in the front row, I saw my daughter Sandra, who was six at the time. I recognized her in the crowd because she was wearing a Bicentennial dress, her grandmother had made for her.
“We didn’t finish in the top 10 but our objective was to finish the race and we did that. We were flying my Mooney, and I had no intention of damaging anything to try and win an air race. I learned a lot about flying and have a great scrapbook and photo albums for memories.”
Janis began flying in the 1960s, serving as a full-time flight instructor with the airlines at Marlboro Airport during the
1970s. “I began flying for the airlines in 1981 — first with Princeton Airways in Princeton, followed by Summit Airlines, in Philadelphia, and then with Sun Country Airlines in Minneapolis.”
Janis flew for Princeton Airways for 15 months until they went out of business. Then for a year and a half she flew charters until Summit Airlines hired her to fly freight from Philadelphia. “When I flew freight I was away a lot. When I was home, it was not quality time with my family since flying freight is a night job, and my body clock was totally messed up.”
Janis stayed for 18 months until Sun Country Airlines offered her a job in Minneapolis as a second officer on a Boeing 727. When she arrived at their headquarters they decided to train her as a standby first officer riding both the back seat and the right seat.”
Janis always wanted to fly for Eastern Air Lines. She grew up just outside of Philadelphia and TV advertising always featured. “I applied to Eastern for eight years before they called. The personnel officer said, ‘I’ve been reading your name for eight years and I’m getting tired of it” Janis replied, “Then you’re going to have to hire me because I’m going to keep on writing.”
When Janis first applied to Eastern Airlines she had about 1,500 hours in the cockpit and they are looking for pilots with 2,5o0 to 3,000 hours. Vietnam was beginning to shut down and the Air Force was discharging pilots. The airline could hold out for pilots with jet experience, and Janis didn’t have any back then.
There were also some personal struggles. In those days, a flight engineer’s ticket was $7,000 and then it was seven weeks away from her family.
One Christmas Janis got all the flight attendants together for a small celebration with Christmas presents for everybody in the crew. “We were like a family. None of us were with our real families. It was just nine of us together, just enjoying each other’s company.”
Janis joined Spirit Airlines in 1999, retiring in 2013 as an A-320 airbus captain with more than 22,000 hours. During her flying career she handled a few nonroutine situations. On one occasion challenged with a cracked windshield at 39,000 feet. On another occasion she had to make an emergency landing at Southwest Florida International Airport in Ft. Myers, A passenger in the forward cabin was having difficulty breathing, while a flight attendant in the aft cabin appeared to be having a heart attack. Once on the ground, both people survived.
In September 2015, Janis was inducted into the Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey, in Teterboro. Janis recently wrote a children’s cook,
“Teddy, the Airplane” a story of a little airplane listening to his friends adventures and deciding to create his own adventures. (available on Amazon).
How to Avoid Dry Turkey this Thanksgiving
Turkey is the centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinners. The National Turkey Federation estimates approximately 46 million turkeys are consumed on Thanksgiving each year, followed by 22 million turkeys at Christmastime.
Turkey makes a pleasing picture on the dinner table. However, some people insist that turkey is their least favorite component of the Thanksgiving meal. One of the biggest complaints is turkey tends to be dry. There are many reasons why turkey can come out dry. Turkey is a lean meat, and Healthline reports that turkey has slightly less fat in its dark meat than chicken. Another reason
why turkey may be dry is due to its poor breast-toleg ratio. By the time one gets the leg meat to cook to temperature so it’s safe for consumption, the breast meat often has dried out.
Seeing how many people dive for the breast meat initially, they could dish up some dry bird.
There are many ways home cooks can prevent dry turkey this Thanksgiving. Consider these turkeytending tips.
• Brine your bird.
According to ScienceBlogs, what causes a human to perceive a food as juicy may actually be his or her own saliva at work. Salty foods may stimulate the production of saliva in the mouth, helping the food
to feel much more moist while on the palate. To adequately inject enough salt into the turkey meat, submerge it in a salt brine for a few days before cooking.
• Watch your cook time. It’s important to avoid overcooking the turkey, which will turn it as dry as the Sahara. Some turkeys come equipped with popup timers to help cooks gauge when to take them out of the oven. However, a more accurate tool is a digital food thermometer that can be set to go off when the turkey reaches the correct internal temperature.
• Cook the turkey parts separately. As previously noted, the breast meat
cont. on page 9
the Warmth of Home
How to Avoid...
cont. from page 8
will likely reach the desired temperature before the leg meat. To fix this, take the turkey out of the oven when it reaches five to 10 degrees before safe temperature for the breast meat, around 165 F. (Remember, the meat will continue to cook while “resting.”) Let guests “ooh and aah” over the picture-perfect turkey. Then cut off the legs and return them to the oven until they are done. Arrange the properly cooked breast and leg meat together on a serving platter.
• Offer condiments. A moist dollop of stuffing, a drizzle of gravy or a scoop of cranberry sauce can add moisture to turkey. This approach does not prevent drying out, but it can make a turkey that has dried out a bit more satisfying.
Dry turkey can put off diners. However, some strategies can harness as much moisture as possible to enhance Thanksgiving dinners.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family
HHomebound Hustle Runs to End Homelessness in Morris County
omelessness is not going away anytime soon, and it may be reassuring to know that hopelessness is not part of that equation.
On Sunday, October 13, Family Promise of Morris County is set to host its fourth annual Steven Hammond Homebound Hustle 5K & 1 Mile Walk. The event will take place on Central Park’s cross-country trail in Morris County, at 1 Gov. Chris Christie Drive in Parsippany.
Family Promise of Morris County’s Homebound Hustle will bring all ages together for a day of fun, fitness and making an impact.
While the event involves runners and walkers of all ages, it is more than just a race. It’s a community effort to spread awareness and raise funds to support families and individuals experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in Morris County.
“It is truly incredible to witness our community come together year after year for the Steve Hammond Homebound Hustle 5K,” said Family Promise CEO Joann Bjornson, a licensed social worker.
“This event not only showcases the strength and unity of our community but also highlights the profound impact of the work we do at Family Promise of Morris County,” adds Bjornson. “Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of families and individuals experiencing homelessness, providing them with the support and resources they need to achieve lasting stability and independence.”
Family Promise of Morris County has supported the community for more than three decades through shelter, housing and outreach programs designed to ensure long-term housing stability and positive health, wellness and economic outcomes for those served.
Event Details
Participants can register to run or walk Central Park of Morris County’s scenic cross-country trail or join the race virtually. A new option this year, participants can also register as a team.
On race day, check-in and on-site registration is set to take place from 9 a.m. to 9:45 cont. on page 10
Homebound Hustle... cont. from page 9
a.m. The 5K Run will begin at 10 a.m. and the 1 Mile Walk will begin at 10:15 a.m., to be followed by an awards ceremony with light refreshments.
There is a $35 registration fee.
The trail is described as “scenic and beautiful, but also wooded and occasionally bumpy. Please keep an eye out for rocks/stones and roots. Trail shoes are recommended but not necessary.
To register or for more details, visit www.runsignup. com/homeboundhustle.
Those who are unable to attend are encouraged to show their support by donating to Family Promise at https://bit.ly/homeboundhustle24 .
Presented by Greenberg Traurig LLP
This year marks the 19th consecutive year of multinational law firm Greenberg Traurig LLP’s support of the
human services agency and the fourth as a naming event sponsor.
“Family Promise is my passion and incredibly near and dear to my heart,” noted Barry Schindler, co-chair of Greenberg Traurig’s Global Patents and Innovation Strategies Group. “I am very grateful to GT for supporting this wonderful cause for 19 years and together we WILL end the homelessness and housing insecurity crisis in Morris County.”
In Honor of Steven Hammond
The Steve Hammond Homebound Hustle 5K & 1 Mile Walk honors the legacy of Stephen W. Hammond, Morris County’s longtime director of Public Works and county engineer and later Board of Trustees president for Family Promise of Morris County. The event serves as a reminder of his leadership and positive impact within
our community.
About Family Promise of Morris County: Family Promise of Morris County is a non-sectarian, not-forprofit organization dedicated to ending the crisis of homelessness and housing insecurity faced by Morris County families and individuals by partnering with other public and private agencies, religious congregations, and community volunteers to provide shelter, affordable housing, case management, and mentoring services leading to independence. Areas of service include shelter, housing, and outreach through programs such as Our Promise Drop-In Resource Center, Landlord Support Program, Promising Solutions Women’s Housing Campus, and the Navigating Hope Mobile Outreach Unit. For more information, visit www.familypromisemorris.org or follow @fami-
lypromisemorris on social media.
Homeless Statistics
According to a Morriscountynj.gov press release, the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency conducts a Point-inTime (PIT) homeless count every January. Statistics from January 2024 have yet to be shared.
During the street and shelter count from 2023, outreach teams asked indi-
viduals where they slept the night of Jan. 23, 2023. The count provides a snapshot of how many people in Morris County are experiencing homelessness.
According to the 2023 homeless count, 465 people were experiencing homelessness in Morris County on Jan. 24, 2023. Of those, 29 people were unsheltered and the balance, 436, were sheltered in emergency shelters or transitional hous-
ing. Of all homeless people in the state in 2023, five percent lived in Morris County. On the night of Jan. 24, 2023, a total of 7,408 households, including 10,267 persons, were experiencing homelessness in New Jersey, according to the 2023 PointIn-Time Count. A total of 1,966 persons were identified as chronically homeless; 1,416 persons were unsheltered on the night of the count.
ith a
A Hearty Way to Honor Hispanic Heritage Month
the United States, Latino food provides a perfect way to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month. Bring your family to the table for a true fiesta with this Mexican Lasagna, a hearty solution that's both filling and easy to make. Visit Culinary.net to find more Hispanic-inspired meal ideas.
Mexican Lasagna
Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy" Servings: 4-6
1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 ounces) black beans
1 can (4 ounces) chiles
2 cans (14 ounces each) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, divided
1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
6 cups shredded cheese
18 taco-sized tortillas of choice fresh cilantro, for garnish sour cream, for serving
Heat oven to 350 F.
In large skillet, brown ground beef; drain grease. Add black beans, chiles with juices, 1 can tomatoes with juices, drained corn, garlic powder, onion powder and taco seasoning.
Open remaining can of tomatoes; take out half and set aside. Add remaining half with juices to beef mixture. Mix well and turn off heat.
In 9-by-13-inch pan, line bottom with six tortillas, slightly overlapping. Cover with 1/3 of beef mixture and top with
2 cups shredded cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients then top with reserved tomatoes. Cover pan with foil and bake 30-40 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream.
Source: Culinary.net (Family Features)
Simple, Flavorful Fall Dessert
If your family's taste buds have grown tired of apple-inspired fall desserts, simply look toward another quintessential autumn flavor: pumpkin. Quick and easy to prepare using a spice cake mix that provides all the flavor without the stress, this cake can be dressed to impress at a fall gathering or served after weeknight dinner. Find more recipes perfect for fall at Culinary.net.
Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy" Servings: 8-12
Bundt Cake: 1
1
Topping: 3 tablespoons caramel sauce
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup chopped nuts of choice
Heat oven to 350 F. Grease Bundt pan. In mixing bowl, mix cake mix, pumpkin, butter and eggs well then pour into Bundt pan. Bake 45-50 minutes until toothpick inserted in middle comes out cleanly. Let cool in pan 5 minutes then remove from pan and let cool completely on rack. Once cooled, mix caramel sauce and powdered sugar; drizzle over Bundt cake. Sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Source: Culinary.net (Family Features)
A Comfort Food Favorite for Football Nights
With football season in full swing, it's time to break out game day favorites that get the crowd on their feet. This Bison Barbecue Meatloaf may not be a traditional tailgate item, but it's a perfect way to bring the family together for weeknight games.
Visit Culinary.net to find more game day dishes.
Bison Barbecue Meatloaf
Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy" Servings: 4-6
1 pound ground bison
1/3 pound hamburger (optional)
2 tablespoons mesquite seasoning or barbecue seasoning
1 egg
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
Glaze:
1 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Heat oven to 350 F.
In bowl, mix bison; hamburger, if using; seasoning; egg; and barbecue sauce. Place in loaf pan.
To make glaze, mix barbecue sauce and brown sugar. Spread over meatloaf. Bake 45 minutes.
Culinary.net (Family Features)
Turn to Tradition for Tex-Mex Taste
The next time your loved ones crave a comforting dish that’s warming from the inside-out, turn to an all-time classic with a touch of southern flair.
Take inspiration for this Tex-Mex Beef Lasagna from season 3 of “BBQuest: Beyond the Pit,” a video series that dives into the long-held traditions, new flavors and everyday inspiration that make Texas barbecue legendary. Developed from the show by BBQuest co-host and “Hardcore Carnivore” cookbook author Jess Pryles, this tasty take on comfort food can be the perfect solution for a family meal with plenty of leftovers.
After dinner, settle in together and learn pitmaster techniques from the experts as the series follows four themes that capture the essence of Texas barbecue: legacy and tradition; creativity and innovation; Texas trailblazers; and family and community.
“Since launching BBQuest four years ago, it’s truly remarkable to see how much has changed and yet stayed the same when it comes to Texas barbecue, and that’s exactly what you see in season 3,” said Rachel Chou, Texas Beef Council’s director of
consumer marketing. “There has been so much exciting innovation around cooking methods and international flavors while there’s still a huge dedication to long-held recipes and smoking techniques.”
To find more pitmaster-worthy recipes, visit BeefLovingTexans.com
Tex-Mex Beef Lasagna
Recipe courtesy of Jess Pryles on behalf of Beef Loving Texans
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 10
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 pounds ground beef
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
2 teaspoons chipotle powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
15 ounces canned corn, drained
15 ounces canned seasoned black beans, drained
10 ounces canned diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
15 ounces canned red enchilada sauce
1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream nonstick cooking spray
12 corn tortillas
8 ounces shredded Mexican blend cheese
cilantro (optional)
green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Preheat oven to 375 F.
In large pan or skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat then add onion. Cook until softened, 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly.
Add ground beef and cook, stirring regularly, until beef has browned.
Add kosher salt, garlic powder, cumin, chipotle powder and onion powder; stir well. Add corn, black beans and diced tomatoes. Turn heat to medium and simmer 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
In bowl, combine enchilada sauce and crema; mix well.
Spray casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Pour about 1/4 cup enchilada sauce mixture on bottom to prevent tortillas from sticking.
Layer 2-4 tortillas across bottom then top with layer of ground beef mixture. Use ladle to spoon some enchilada sauce mixture on top, distributing evenly. Top with another layer of tortillas then repeat layers until casserole is full, 3-4 layers. Top with shredded cheese.
Loosely cover dish with foil in tent shape to help prevent cheese from sticking then bake 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Cool 5 minutes before serving. Top with cilantro and green onions, if desired. (Family Features)
Shop Morris County: Teen Entrepreneur Launches Local Business Hub
By Cheryl Conway
Anyone can google a business, but how helpful could it be if all the businesses were found in one search?
Thanks to 15-year-old Giovanni DiDomenico of Parsippany consumers can check out Shop Morris County, the first Morris County guide/resource for finding local events, restaurants, news and more in Morris County. Launched on Instagram on April 1, 2023, the official website launch was June 10.
With more than 100 businesses that have registered on the website so far, Shop Morris County is becoming the one stop spot for googling businesses on one website.
“There’s a huge benefit to businesses and the consumer because anyone can google for businesses when you are on the Shop Morris County site,” says DiDomenico, 10th grader at Morris County School of Technology. “I am not aware of any websites that are Morris County-focused with the core mission of shopping and supporting local.”
DiDomenico and his father came up with his business idea two years ago when he was in eighth grade.
“I was having lunch with my father in Boonton, and my father told me that he’d been thinking of launching a Morris County Guide years ago, and I was thinking, ‘why should I wait, let’s do it!” he explains. “Then at lunch in Boonton I created the Instagram page and posted Al Aqsa Restaurant as the first ever post on Shop Morris County.”
He is very grateful for the collaboration and support by his father.
“My father has helped me a lot along the way, especially by driving me around to get to local businesses, since I am only 15 years old,” he shares.
“The cost for me to get this going was my time; to this day I put hours in every single day to grow and keep it moving,” he adds.
Hopefully, his work will pay off in other ways as he looks toward his future.
“I’ve made connections with many towns such as Randolph, Dover, Jefferson, Denville, Rockaway,” he shares.
“Over 100+ businesses have been featured either on the Shop Morris County Instagram and/or website,” he adds.
“My career plans are growing Shop Morris County and building more brands,” he says.
“My goal for the Shop Morris County initiative is to make a significant community impact and help promote shopping locally,” he says. “I also look forward to growing the Shop Morris County brand and supporting our local communities.”
A value add for visitors is “there is no cost for users/subscribers to view content on Shop Morris County,” he says. “This is to prioritize an enjoyable experience for the reader.”
Shop Morris County is on Facebook, Instagram and a website. https://www.instagram.com/shopmorriscounty/ https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61559045103192 https://shopmorriscounty.com/
There are numerous ways to partner with Shop Morris County. Any interested businesses can email DiDomenico at gio@shopmorriscounty.com
“As the owner of Shop Morris County, I am very excited to see the significant growth I’ve achieved over the past few months,” he concludes. “I am both enthusiastic and deeply grateful to be where I am today.”
By Jeff Garrett
Not far from Princeton University in the town itself, there’s a house with tremendous history and mystique with luxurious gardens just waiting to be explored if you haven’t visited yet. Located at 55 Stockton Street, Morven is an operational showcase of New Jersey through means such as special events, educational offerings and wellthemed and well-timed exhibitions to enlighten a visitor’s arrival.
3
of Independence and has a college named after him in New Jersey among other worldly achievements, Morven was constructed in the 1750’s when Richard was in his 20’s. It gets its name thanks to Richard’s wife Annis who Richard married in the late 1750’s. Annis Boudinnot decided to name the house “Morven” calling out a mythical castle of King Fingal in Scottish writer and poet, James MacPherson’s, “Ossiamic Saga,” which in Gaelic means “big hill.”
Built by well-known historical figure Richard Stockton, who signed the Declaration
Aptly named, the original residence burned a great deal of the massive structure to
1958 with bricks, some of the actual original brick sits on display in the West Wing of the house. Years passed before the Revolutionary War started. The interim years between rebuilding the home saw Richard, Sr and Annie raise their son, Richard, Jr, before the three needed to flee their residence with the British occupation. Decades later in 1840, Robert Stockton inherited Morven where his mother lived until 1837.
ALL ABOUT PETS
Holidays Potentially Hazardous to Pets
The holiday season is full of joy. But in the midst of decorating and socializing, pet owners may overlook the needs of their pets. Hectic schedules and homes full of unusual décor can throw pets off-kilter.
No pet owner wants their pet to feel uncomfortable or suffer any injuries, so it’s important that owners exercise caution with the following items come the holiday season:
Bones: Is turkey on the menu for the family feast? If so, resist the urge to toss some bones and scraps to dogs or cats. Small bones or bone chips can become lodged in the digestive tracts of pets and cause serious injury. If you want to provide your pet with a holiday treat, choose a safer, store-bought bone.
Aromatic oils: The holidays are not the same without the familiar scent of mint, cinnamon or pine. Some people resort to scented candles or aromatherapy oils to create the perfect holiday ambiance. But some synthetic aromas or even natural extracts can be toxic to cats and dogs. Stick to non-toxic items and keep them well out of the pet’s reach.
Chocolate and other sweets: An abundance of treats seems to be par for the course during the holiday season. Dogs should avoid all chocolate, but dark chocolate poses a particularly serious threat. Chocolate can cause agitation, elevated heart rate, diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and even death. In addition, candy or cookies sweetened with the artificial sweetener xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure for dogs.
Pine needles and trees: When ingested, pine needles can puncture the intestines of pets. In search of an easy drink, dogs and cats may be drawn to the fresh water reservoir of live trees, increasing the likelihood that they knock over a Christmas tree, injuring them and causing damage around the house. Trees should be properly secured and fallen needles should be promptly discarded.
Tinsel and decorations: Skip the tinsel if you have a cat. Felines are likely to mistake tinsel for a toy. Eating tinsel can cause severe damage to a cat’s intestinal tract, as it may get caught in the stomach while the rest of it continues to pass through the intestines. Tinsel also may wrap around the tongue, increasing the cat’s risk of choking. Ornaments also are tempting playthings. Cats may pounce on glass ornaments, breaking them and suffering injury. Keep pets in mind when selecting tree ornaments, and opt for unbreakable ornaments when possible.
Electrical cords: The American Animal Hospital Association says holiday lights mean more electrical cords for kittens and puppies to chew. Secure all cords and keep them out of reach of pets.
Candles: The subtle flicker of a lit candle can add ambiance to any space. But all it takes is the swish of a tail or the tap of a paw to knock over a candle and spark a fire. Never leave lit candles unattended. If you have boisterous pets, opt for LED simulated candles instead.
Alcohol: Spirits are sometimes a part of celebrations,
Brought to you by Dr. Matthew Krupnick, the owner of Pequannock Animal Hospital
but alcoholic beverages should be kept out of reach of pets. Alcohol suppresses the immune system and it can result in significant health issues for pets who consume it.
The holiday season is a time for celebration. Ensure that these festivities are as safe for pets as they are enjoyable.
Dr. Matthew Krupnick is the owner of the Pequannock Animal Hospital. He grew up in Kinnelon and is happy to be home – with his wife, three cats, and two dogs – to provide quality and compassionate care for pets in the community. The Pequannock Animal Hospital is located at 591 Newark Pompton Turnpike in Pompton Plains. You can reach the hospital by calling 973-616-0400.
Fall in Love with Outdoor Decor
Just because the temperatures cool doesn't mean the amount of time and attention you spend on your outdoor spaces should. Fall is the perfect time to add seasonal touches and decorations to the exterior of your home that not only improve curb appeal, but also amplify your personal style.
Consider these seasonal ideas for decorating your patios, porches and backyards.
Use Bold Autumn Colors
Orange is a go-to fall color, but other seasonal shades, such as burgundy, can be incorporated to complement those orangey tones of pumpkins. Think blankets, throw pillows, mums and faux leaves as accent items that can add fall hues to your home.
Plant Autumn Varietals
Potted plants are one of the quintessential elements of outdoor decor, and taking advantage of your favorite fall blooming plants - Nippon daisies, Oriental lilies, chrysanthemum and helenium, for example - can add seasonal greenery and fiery tones to your garden or planters.
Bring the Indoors Out
You can create beautifully designed spaces that you'll enjoy year-round by bringing the indoors outside. Coffee tables, weather-proof area rugs, throw pillows, hanging lighting and wicker furniture can be staples of fall outdoor living spaces that provide the same cozy feel as your living room.
Warm Up with a Fire Pit
Calming and on-trend, creating a DIY firepit - either in a safe spot in your yard or simply on a tabletop - using concrete blocks, a ceramic pot or copper bowl and some logs can serve as a perfect gathering place for fall nights.
String Some Lights Around Your Space
If you have an outdoor space that could use some ambience, a string or two of clear party lights or strategically hung lanterns can improve the look and feel of your patio or yard. Of course, you can also opt to light candles or repurpose leftover outdoor torches.
Welcome Guests with a Personalized Doormat
Adding a personalized, seasonal welcome mat can add some personality to your porch as a simple way to supplement function with a touch of style. With a range of options typically available, swapping it out seasonally can keep your front door fresh.
Hang a Leafy Wreath
While lush green wreaths work many months out of the year, autumn is an opportunity to string together red, orange and gold hues that can often be found in yards as well. Simply pick up some faux leaves at a craft store - or pick them up from your yard for an even more natural look - and attach to a wooden or metal wreath frame then hang with some fall-themed ribbon or rustic twine.
Find more ideas for decorating your home at eLivingtoday.com.
Source: eLivingtoday.com
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
On-Trend Ways to Refresh Your House in 2025 3 trends for improving home design and function
Whether you're looking to simply refresh your living space or planning a major home renovation, staying current with design trends not only enhances comfort and style but also boosts your house's value.
As modern home design continues to evolve, trends are increasingly shifting toward long-term movements focused on versatility, sustainability and innovation. By embracing these elements in your 2025 updates, with these ideas from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products - a leader throughout North America in innovation, design and production of high-quality, low-maintenance exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more - you can ensure your living space remains stylish and functional for years to come.
Incorporate Versatile Design Elements
Because homeowners' tastes are continuously evolving, it's important to take an adaptable design approach when creating unique and harmonious indoor and outdoor spaces. Using products that offer exceptional design versatility, including siding, trim, stone, roofing and other exterior elements, can allow your upgrades to transcend fleeting trends and maintain their relevance and appeal over time.
Similarly, homebuyers are moving away from cookie-cutter designs, seeking bold aesthetics that enhance curb appeal and distinguish their homes from others on the block. This shift toward personalized spaces that reflect individual tastes requires mixing textures, finishes and colors to transform both exteriors and interiors to create visually dynamic and unique looks. Blending materials like brick with vinyl siding, stone with wood or modern siding with rustic stone veneer can add depth and character to facades.
Choose Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design
Homeowners are increasingly focused on sustainable and eco-friendly home designs
to reduce their environmental impact, save on energy costs and create healthier living spaces. Complementing this trend, biophilic design is also gaining momentum as it seeks to strengthen the connection between indoor environments and nature. This approach goes beyond simply adding greenery, focusing on the use of natural light, improved ventilation and materials that mimic organic patterns and textures. Features like large windows, living walls and the use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, have become popular choices, blending sustainability with a deeper connection to the natural world.
Eco-friendly materials that use fewer raw materials, generate smaller carbon footprints and conserve water play a vital role in sustainable design and are in high demand. For example, reclaimed wood, recycled metal and low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints are popular choices due to their reduced environmental impact. Innovative products can also help reduce energy consumption like US Tile Clay Roofing, which is naturally reflective, 100% recyclable and, when paired with a cool roof system, can save homeowners up to 22% per year on heating and cooling costs compared to a standard composition asphalt shingle roof.
Seek Functional, Innovative Solutions
Driven by the evolving needs of homeowners, modular and easy-install systems, like panelized stone siding, are gaining popularity due to their ability to simplify installation while mimicking traditional materials such as stone or wood. These functional systems save time and can empower homeowners to tackle projects themselves.
In addition, the rising frequency of severe weather events is increasing demand for smart, weather-resistant materials that enhance homes' aesthetic appeal and offer superior protection against extreme conditions. An option like Versetta Stone, which delivers the authentic look and feel of stone in an easy-to-install panelized format, offers wind resistance up to 110 miles per hour and carries a Class A fire rating. The stone siding features a tongue-and-groove system for perfect spacing, has a built-in rainscreen and can be installed almost anywhere using screws or nails without additional footings for support.
Find more home design trends and inspiration at WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts. com.
Source: Westlake Royal Building Products
Family Features
Project Self-Sufficiency’s Earth Angels Initiative Seeks Holiday Donations for Local Seniors
Project Self-Sufficiency is currently seeking monetary donations and gift cards to local stores to be distributed to senior citizens as part of the agency’s Earth Angels initiative. During mid-December, students in the New Jersey Youth Corps high school diploma program at Project Self-Sufficiency will stuff festive bags with the cards and gifts; the items will be delivered by volunteers and Project Self-Sufficiency staff to homebound seniors during the week leading up to Christmas. Along with monetary contributions, the agency is seeking the donation of gift cards from local retailers, including Kohl’s, Shop Rite, Stop & Shop, Wal-Mart, Weis and the hair salons at the Homestead and Liberty Towers senior residences.
Newton attorney Elenora L. Benz, Esquire, originated the Earth Angels program in 1999 by enlisting the support of her staff member Mary Jones, along with clients, business colleagues, and community volunteers. The initiative was taken over by Project Self-Sufficiency in 2017. Although most Earth Angels recipients reside in Newton’s Liberty Towers and Frankford’s Homestead, senior citizens in other parts of the county have been added every year as the program expanded.
“The Earth Angels program invites all of us to demonstrate compassion for those in our community who may feel overlooked or forgotten during the busy rush of the holiday season,” comments Project Self-Sufficiency Executive Director Deborah Berry-Toon. “Our vulnerable seniors need our support, and we are extremely gratified
by the outpouring of concern shown by those who donate to this valuable service year after year.”
“This year we expect to bring holiday cheer to more than 100 senior citizens in our area,” remarked Earth Angels Project Coordinator Alice Prendergast. “This program also gives us the opportunity to meet with our older neighbors, find out what they need, and introduce them to the services we offer throughout the year.”
Monetary donations can be made online at www.projectselfsufficiency.org or by making out a check to “Project Self-Sufficiency” and indicating “Earth Angels” on the memo line. Donations of checks and gift cards can be dropped off at Project Self-Sufficiency, 127 Mill Street, Newton. To register to receive gifts from the Earth Angels program, or to find out more information, call Alice Prendergast at Project Self-Sufficiency, 973-940-3500.
About Project Self-Sufficiency
Project Self-Sufficiency has assisted low-income individuals and families in northwestern New Jersey since 1986. Services offered at Project Self-Sufficiency include high school equivalency education, computer courses, employment skills training, job placement services, support groups, parenting classes, childcare and preschool, legal assistance and education, counseling and advocacy, referrals, and help with emergency basic needs, like food and clothing. For more information about the programs and services offered by Project Self-Sufficiency, visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org or call 973-940-3500.
Alice and Kevin Prendergast assemble gift bags for local senior citizens as part of Project Self-Sufficiency’s Earth Angels initiative.
By Henry M Hoden
Slavery and the slave trade was an American institution as far back as the Durch occupation in the 1600s. It stretched as far north as New England with New Jersey holding many enslaved people and harboring the lucky few in a Friends Meeting House, and likely other Quaker locations. Quakers became critical and central to the launch of the movement to abolish the slave trade in the 1780s.
They were the first religious movement to condemn slavery and would not allow their members to own slaves.
The Religious Society of Friends, also known as the Quakers, played a major role in the abolition movement against slavery in the United States. Quakers were among the first white people to denounce slavery and the Quaker’s Society of Friends became the first organization to take a collective stand against both slavery and the slave trade.
Slavery was encouraged by the Concessions and Agreements of Feb. 10, 1664. It rewarded slavery by granting land to settlers according to the number of enslaved people they had. Settlers could receive up to 150 acres for each adult enslaved person, creating the potential for larger farms to be amassed by those with
RECORD PRICES
The Quakers and the Abolitionists
the most enslaved.
Keeping enslaved people was not part of the Quaker belief system. The Quakers tried to eliminate the problem of racism by persuasion, petitions, and active and passive means such as boycotting products made by slave labor. Those who defied the organization were late banned from the Quakers.
In 1776, Quakers were prohibited from owning slaves, and 14 years later they petitioned the U.S. Congress for the abolition of slavery.
There were many Quakers who opposed slavery totally. However, some Quakers refused to free their enslaved people and when they did there were often serious outbreaks of violence.
By 1861, on the eve of a potential Civil War there was a serious division between the Quaker slave holders and the abolitionists Quakers who wanted freedom for all enslaved people.
While there are no prescribed or mandatory set beliefs in Quakerism, one will often see a common group of goals, called testimonies; simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship (SPICES).
One tactic used was Quaker stores selling only. goods produced by the labor of free
people. It had little impact on the issue.
By 1840, there were several serious outbreaks of violence against anti-slavery agitators and leaders. The atmosphere was such that violence came to the Friends in Boonton, N.J. and likely other Friends location as well.
The drive among the Abolitionist to end slavery, especially among their own ranks became more heated as time went by.
The idea was to not only free the enslaved people but try to establish ways of keeping them free. There were secondary
issues that arose when trying to secure a meaningful freedom. Many Quakers enslaved people were re-enslaved or were not treated well after being released and declared free.
Sadly, many white Quakers did not believe that Blacks were genuine equals, spiritually. There was a lot of criticism from the more vocal Quaker abolitionists. There was a race problem within the Quaker organization, and the general public, and it grew worse with time. There were some Quakers who
This typical Quaker Meeting House in Randolph, was used primarily for meetings and reportedly as a station on the Underground Rail Road. (Photo credit: Henry M. Holden)
Main Street Antique Center
The Quakers... cont. from page 27
were trying to promote freedom for all enslaved but soon the divide grew larger and more dangerous for the Abolitionists.. It was difficult for white Christians, even people who were in the vanguard of the white conscience to envision Blacks as equals spiritually, in their own meeting houses.
So, what were the Quakers to do? Was it more important to be spiritually and theologically clean, or was it more important to live in the world and to try to achieve change in their world? The dilemma was such that the unwillingness of some white Quakers to accept the Black Quakers created a racial divide. And the Black children soon found themselves in inadequate Black schools.
The contradiction was the violence that slavery delivered and was not going to end peacefully. At some point Americans realized there was going to be a civil war. So, Quakers were always concerned about the means and ends. Unfortunately, their pacifism became more conservative because they understood that their beliefs might be used to foment insurrection.
The real dilemma was whites were never enslaved themselves, but here they are telling free Blacks not to use violence, and not to use weapons to defend themselves, or their freedom. How violent should one become to abolish another kind of violence - slavery?
The Quakers had an internal, unsolvable struggle over the best way to fight the injustice of slavery.
Slavery is not the same issue in the United States today, although, one can debate ways in which it still exists. What are some of the causes of issues that most engage the Friends today?
Basically, peace continues to be one of those. The Quakers were concerned about being drawn into European wars and they struggled hard for people to understand the costs of war, both materially and in terms of its loss of human lives.
Second would be economic justice issues, trying to ensure that every person has an opportunity to earn a living wage that would support a family.
And, there was always that hope that one might be able to win over their oppressors by being humble and being meek in trying to change things, one person at a time. That did not work out but that was the Quaker’s hope in the 19th century.
There were some incredible racial challenges in the 19th century and that peaceful vision did not play out.
There is something that was said about winning people over one by one and knowing that the tough issues are not going to be resolved easily. They’re not going to be solved rapidly. And realistically, they
certainly are not going to be settled through violence. That was proven by an estimated 800, 000 Americans who thought their side was righteous and were willing to die for that belief’.
In hindsight, the American Civil War was not the solution to what started out to be an issue between Quakers and abolitionists owning humans. It was a slavery issue, and it had spread t0 other parts of the country.
Many think that slavery ended with the Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Lincoln on January 1, 1863. However, this document freed only slaves held in the eleven Confederate states that had seceded, and only in the portion of those states not already under Union control.
The 13th Amendment passed on January 31, 1865, was meant to abolish slavery and involuntary servitude except as punishment for a. “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States…” And “Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.”
More than thirty years later another attempt did not end slavery. In 1899, in ‘Plessy vs Ferguson” the Supreme Court ruled that separate but equal educational facilities were ruled Constitutional, Racial justice had to wait another 50 years. On May 17, 1954, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka that racial segregation in educational facilities was unconstitutional. This was the cornerstone to ending all racial segregation.
For years, Thurgood Marschal had argued civil rights cases before the U,S. Supreme Court. Piece by piece he took down Plessey vs Ferguson.
Under escort from the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division, nine Black students enter the all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas.
This was the first permanent change in the makeup of American society. More legislation would come. Under this legislation Black Quaker schools and churches were closed and the children integrated into white society.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 followed and was backed up by National Guard troops with loaded weapons. Four students were shot dead and nine were wounded. at Kent State University in 1970 during the riots.
Thurgood Marshal became the first African American to serve as a judge on the United States Supreme Court in, 1967.
Consider These 13 Gratifying Thanksgiving Facts
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends and reflect on one’s blessings. In 2022, Canadian Thanksgiving takes place on October 10, while Americans celebrate on November 24. In anticipation of these holidays, here are some interesting facts about the Thanksgiving celebration.
1. American Thanksgiving is largely modeled on a 17th century harvest feast shared by the English settlers and the Wampanoag tribe.
2. Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October. It is based on European harvest festivals.
3. The National Turkey Federation says around 45 million turkeys will be eaten on Thanksgiving, which equates to about 720 million pounds of turkey being consumed (with the average turkey size being 16 pounds).
4. The Butterball hotline answers roughly 100,000 calls every year on its turkey question hotline.
5. In 1953, the Swanson company overestimated the number of frozen turkeys it would sell for the holiday season by 26 tons. Rather than waste the meat, Swan-
son sliced it up, repackaged it and created the first frozen TV dinners.
6. Thanksgiving in America may be older than many recognize. While Thanksgiving is largely tied to the 17th century settlers, the National Parks Service says in 1565 Spanish settlers in St. Augustine (now Florida) celebrated by having a meal to which they invited the native Seloy tribe. The Spanish served pork stew, sea biscuits, red wine, and garbanzo beans. Some say the Seloy contributed turkey, venison and maize.
7. Thanksgiving didn’t become a civic holiday until Abraham Lincoln made it one after the Civil War tragedy. Thanksgiving was declared a national holiday on October 20, 1864.
8. The Pilgrims did not refer to themselves as “pilgrims.” They used the word “separatists” as they were separating themselves from a larger belief system.
9. In addition to Canada and the United States, Grenada, Liberia, the Philippines, Saint Lucia, and the Netherlands celebrate their own versions of Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving. This tradition dates back to when Abraham Lincoln’s son was upset that his family’s turkey that was going to be killed for Thanksgiving dinner.
11. According to the U.S. Calorie Control Council (CCC), an average American may consume 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat on Thanksgiving Day.
12. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual tradition. People line the parade route in New York City or tune in to
watch the parade on television. It originated in 1924 and the famed balloons were added in 1927.
13. Apple pie is the pie of choice for Thanksgiving, even though pumpkin pie is prevalent this time of year.
Thanksgiving is a popular holiday in Canada and the U.S. Many traditions have been borne of the holiday, and it is a favorite time of year for many people.
Did You Know?
Trends come and go, and that impermanence can make it hard to predict how certain times of year, including the holiday season, will play out. However, one notable trend in regard to the holiday season that has seemingly withstood the test of time is the popularity of Black Friday among holiday shoppers. But even that dynamic has shifted in the digital age. Though Black Friday remains a big day for retailers,
in 2021 consumers spent more on Cyber Monday (the Monday after Thanksgiving) than they did on Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving). According to the Adobe Digital Economy Index, consumers spent $10.7 billion on Cyber Monday in 2021. That’s nearly $2 billion more than consumers spent on Black Friday, when retailers made $8.9 billion in sales.
10. Each year, the American president “pardons” a turkey from slaughter on
Local Community Unites to Commemorate Attack on Israel
By Cheryl Conway
More than one year has passed since the October 7 Hamas led attack on Israel, and rather than forget, the local community is finding light, hope and compassion.
About 50 people from Mt. Olive, Washington Twp., Roxbury and other surrounding areas gathered at 7 p.m. at the Chabad Jewish Center in Flanders to commemorate the attack, to honor those whose lives were lost, remember the horrific day and unite as a people. Rabbi Yaacov Shusterman organized the hour-long event— Light Over Darkness— to memorialize victims of the October 7 massacre of last year.
“This was the worst antisemitic attack since the Holocaust,” says Shusterman. “We always have to remember and make sure it doesn’t happen again.”
At the event, different people from the community spoke and candles were lit to remember the day when Hamas and several other Palestinian nationalist militant groups launched coordinated armed incursions from the Gaza Strip into the Gaza Envelope of southern Israel. The attack coincided with Simchat Torah, the Jewish holiday that celebrates and marks the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings.
The memorial event included prayers, a candle lighting ceremony, poetry and speeches read by Jewish teenagers and members of the community of various age groups who read the biographies of some of the hostages, describes Shusterman. He also spoke.
“365 days, an entire
year has gone by since that day when our worlds changed forever,” recites Shusterman. “We witnessed the unthinkable—the brutal loss of innocent lives, families torn apart, and a pain so deep that words can barely express it.
“We cannot stop thinking about the 101 innocent people still held captive in the darkness of tunnels beneath Gaza; the over 20,000 rockets and missiles fired at Israel, and the hundreds of thousands still displaced from their homes,” he adds.
“For many of us the pain remains so raw and so real,” he continues. “Yet, amid this silence, something remarkable has emerged. The heart of our people, the Jewish nation is showing its true beauty. We see acts of kindness and strength that reflect the essence of who we are. Communities are coming together like never before, strangers are embracing each other with love and support. We see those who refuse to let despair win, who rise with hope, compassion, and a fierce commitment to one another.
“We hope for peace in the region and that the
people of Israel live with serenity,” adds Shusterman.
One attendee, Scott Sclar of Succasunna, attended the event in order “to pay homage to those negatively affected by the unfortunate situation unfolding in the Middle East,” he shares.
While the event was to memorialize a tragic day, Sclar walked away with some positive light.
“My main takeaway was that it is important to stay positive and look at the bright side of things even in dark times,” says Sclar. “To dance for a bright future instead of cry over a troublesome past. I learned that throughout history the Jewish people have always been ostracized but have always been able to rise above.”
He was grateful that he was able to attend such a meaningful event.
“I am pleased that I attended because it allowed me to reflect on my ancestral history and remember where I came from,” says Sclar. “It was great to see a sense of community and everyone coming together for a common cause.”
Reducing Food Insecurity in Infants and Toddlers
Food insecurity isn’t a new problem in the United States, but the economic upheaval created by the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the problem.
During the pandemic, households in the United States with children experienced an increase in food insecurity, despite overall rates of food insecurity staying the same. In 2019, 13.6% of households with children were food insecure, but by 2020, that number increased to 14.8%, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
In general, child food insecurity rates are higher than overall food insecurity rates, according to the annual Map the Meal Gap study conducted by Feeding America, a nationwide nonprofit network of food banks. According to data from the Children’s Defense Fund, this is particularly prevalent among low-income families, single mother households and Black and Hispanic households.
What Food Insecurity Means for Children
Food insecurity and hunger are closely related but not quite the same. People who are food insecure don’t have reliable, ongoing access to an adequate supply of affordable, nutritious food. Hunger is a physical condition; food insecurity reflects barriers to obtaining food such as finances, physical location and transportation.
Infants and toddlers are particularly vulnerable to nutrient deficiencies because their nutrient needs are high, especially in relation to the size of their stomachs and appetites. Caregivers in food-insecure households may have little choice but to settle for cheaper, energy-dense but nutrient-poor foods. As a result, food-insecure infants and toddlers are not receiving adequate nutrition even when they may be receiving enough calories to satisfy hunger.
Even if a child isn’t physically starving, inadequate nutrition can negatively affect health in numerous ways, including immune system function, low weight, learning and developmental delays, vitamin deficiencies and more.
Ways to Help Promote Better Nutrition
Support good nutrition during infancy and toddlerhood for your own children and others in the community with these practical tips:
Participate in (or introduce those in need to) aid programs. Government nutrition assis-
tance programs help provide essential nutrition needs during infant and toddler years. One example is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), which provides a variety of resources including food and health care referrals to support mothers and young children at nutritional risk, including pregnant, breastfeeding and post-partum women, as well as infants and children up to age 5.
Another example is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides benefits low-income families can use to purchase nutritious foods. For children and adults who are enrolled in certain care programs, the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) helps ensure they have access to nutritious meals and snacks.
Make purchases that work extra hard. In addition to producing foods that encourage better nutrition for children, some brands also make contributions that help offset food insecurity. For example, for every box of Plum Organics Super Smoothies purchased, the company donates a pouch to a child in need through its “ The Full Effect ” program. The smoothie is a specially formulated blend of fruits, vegetables, legumes and grains with no added sugars designed to fight malnutrition and help fortify the diets of children who don’t have access to regular, healthy meals.
Act as a role model for healthy choices. Children learn by example, so be sure your little ones see you enjoying nutritious snacks, filling your plate with appropriate portions and preparing well-rounded meals. When kids are exposed to a wide range of healthy options early in life, those food choices become the norm as they grow older.
Volunteer at a food bank. Getting hands-on by donating your time at a local food bank can help you understand the complexity of food insecurity. Many nutritious selections are perishable, and transporting and storing perishable goods is costly. Volunteers help offset a food bank’s operational expenses by contributing labor to sort donated items, prepare deliveries and more.
To find more information about foods that provide infants and toddlers the nutrients they need, visit plumorganics.com. (Family Features)
Great Golf & The Beer Garden!
Home Town Life is 100% mailed to local residents and businesses
We offer local news, informative articles, community happenings and online advertising
No long term commitments, free artwork and personal marketing guidance
Servicing Morris, Passaic, Essex and Warren Counties
Lisa Buniewski
Marketing Sales Associate 973-851-2346 cell lisa@mylifepublications.com
Call, email or text Lisa for more information
Advertise with HomeTown Life Today www.mypaperonline.com
Children's Programs at Butler Public Library
To register for any of these programs go on Google Forms or visit the Library to sign up. If you need help registering, please call the library at 973-8383262. If you are no longer able to attend after you sign up for this program, please call the library and let us know.
Family Movie Nights
One Friday per month at 7:00 pm
Join us once a month for a Family Movie Night, showing Family-Friendly Films on our 70" Flat Screen TV.
In the Program Room at the Butler Library
Read a Story to Cory For Beginner Readers Every Monday from 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Ms. Kim Boon and her Shih Tzu Dog, Cory will help your child in learning how to read or to practice reading aloud. Cory is the best listener. Sign up for a 15 minute session is required. This program is free. Come join us at the Butler Library with Cory and Ms. Kim and practice reading aloud when you can read a story to Cory.
Story Time
Tuesdays at 10:30am October 22 – December 10
For ages 3 – 5 yrs.
Story time offers 30-minute sessions with a story and other fun activities. Parents must remain in the Library. This free program is limited to 12 chil-
dren. Registration is required.
Toddler Time
Thursdays at 10:30am October 24 – December 12
For ages 2 – 3 yrs.
Toddler time offers a 30-minute session with a story and a small craft for children and caretakers. This free program is limited to 8 children and 8 caretakers. Butler residents only.
Smokey the Bear Song & Lyrics Scavenger Hunt
Did you know Smokey Bear is 80 years old this year?
When: November 1 – November 27
For ages 3 – 10 yrs.
No registration necessary
Visit the library, pick up a game form and pencil, search around the library for pictures of Smokey Bear. Record your answers on the game form for a chance to win a Smokey Bear stuffed animal. Have fun!
TOYS FOR TOTS
Collection begins November 4 – December 5, 2024
The Butler Library is a drop off site for the yearly Toys for Tots toy drive. Bring new unwrapped new toys only and place your donation into the Toys for Tots bin in the front of the Library. Thank you for supporting this program.
Children's Programs (cont.)
TINKERCAD Club
When: Monday, November 25 & December 2, 2024
TIme: 4:00 – 5:00 PM
Ages: 8 – 10
Learn Tinkercad during this two week club and create a 3D project in Tinkercad with Ms. Arlene. Tinkercad is a 3D modeling program using an online program. Participants should try to attend all meetings because each class builds on the previous class.
SANTA Letters
November 25 – December 20, 2024
Come into the Library and write a letter to Santa, then place it in the mailbox on the table in the Children’s area of the Library. If you do not have time to write a letter while in the Library, take a writing paper home, write the letter, and return it to the mailbox on the table. All children residing in Butler will receive a response from Santa as long as the address and names are clearly written on the letter.
SANTA Visits the Library
When: Thursday, December 5, 2024
Time: 5:30 pm for music, Santa arrives close to 6:00.
Members of the Butler High School Band will entertain the audience with holiday music in the Court Room until Santa arrives. Visit with Santa and be ready to take a photograph. Enter through the Library, receive a number which will be called by Ms. Arlene for your turn to visit with Santa. Registration is not necessary.
Diamond Dot Phone/iPad sticker or choose from other Diamond Dot projects
Work together with a Caregiver
When: Monday, December 9 or Monday, December 30. Sign up for either class. Time: 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages: 7 – 14 Years
Register on Google Forms for either: December 9 December 30
Learn how to use Diamond Dots to create your very own sparkly project. Caregivers and children can work together on one of the projects. This class is limited to 10 children and 10 caregivers. All supplies
are provided by the library, so register on google forms and join in on the fun. If you are no longer able to attend after you sign up for this program, please call the library and let us know. If you need help registering, please call the library at 973-838-3262.
Morris County Vocational School District: Share Time Presentation
For 9th & 10th grade School Students & Parents/Guardians
When: December 10, 2024 Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Enter through the Butler Public Library to the Court Room
Learn about a half-day high school experience providing specialized career and technical education. Students in 10th grade may apply to a Share Time Progran for career and technical education training as part of their junior and senior year in high school.
