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he opening of Bloomingdale Supermarket by Foodtown on January 5, 2024, marked a significant event for the local community. Despite the cold weather, eager shoppers lined up for the grand opening of the 8,000 square foot supermarket located at 78 Main Street in Bloomingdale, NJ, replacing the former IGA Supermarket.

The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, a highlight of the event, attracted various store and local officials. Among the notable attendees were store co-owners Adam and Erica Sha-

piro, President and Chief Operating Officer of Allegiance Retail Services/Foodtown Joseph Fantozzi, Bloomingdale Representatives Mayor John D’Amato, Council President John Graziano, Councilman Ray Yazdi, Business Administrator Mike Sondermeyer, and Economic Development Commission members Jennifer Ellis and Nadia Hussian.

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Supermarket ...

cont. from front page mending their new business venture as a demonstration of their pride in the community and commitment to the future development of the downtown area. He extended the well wishes of the Borough's Governing Body for a successful future.

Michael Sondermeyer, the town’s Business Administrator, expressed excitement about the convenience the new supermarket brings to the community, especially for those living along Main Street or within walking distance who may not drive. He explained that this aligns with the Town Council's focus on fostering businesses that support the local community and economy.

The aim of the Bloomingdale Supermarket by Foodtown is to cater to the diverse needs of the community and offer high-quality products at affordable prices, delivering on Foodtown’s promise Quality Meals Begin Here. Grocery and perishable offerings will include natural and organic choices, value lines, garden fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh baked goods, specialty meats and cheeses, grab-andgo meals, and fresh flowers.

This establishment marks the second supermarket owned and operated by the Shapiro family. Adam Shapiro expressed his family's eagerness to be an integral part of the Bloomingdale community. “Foodtown’s are “Locally Owned, Family Operated” and we promise to work towards offering an exceptional shopping experience, emphasizing our commitment to providing the community with the grocery choices they need to support a healthy lifestyle.”

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • February 2024 • Page 3

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Ricciardi Brothers – Developing Workplace Readiness Skills

By Henry M. Holden he Calais School of Whippany opened in 1970, and there are about one hundred students currently enrolled in the school.

The Calais School is a state-approved, nonprofit, private special education school in North Jersey serving students in grades K through 12 Plus who have multiple learning disabilities as well as anxiety, mood, behavior, and autism spectrum disorders.

Many students with special needs find success with Calais’ 12 Plus a Program as it helps to bridge the gap between high school, college, and career,” said Ashley Soleau, Communications Director at the Calais School. “Our 12 Plus Program is designed to prepare students ages 1821 for the next step in their lives in a safe and encouraging environment.

The home district where the student comes from is generally not able to deal with the special needs of the student who will subsequently be placed in the Calais School.”

The Calais School recently announced a renewal of the partnership with the Ricciardi Brothers of Morristown.

Ricciardi Brothers is a family-owned retail establishment providing paint, staining, and decorating needs to its customers throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.

“This partnership gives high school students participating in The Calais School Work-Based Learning (WBL) program, a chance to intern in the colorful and creative industry of retail paint and decorating, “said Soleau.

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“They are on an unpaid internship that will give them a variety of work experiences. “The students are really learning about work-readiness. Do they understand what their role is as an employee and how they will interact with people? We will explain how to manage the expectations of their manager and succeed with their interactions with other students and coworkers.”

Riccardi may have a slightly different environment in the student’s experience.

The Riccardi Brothers customers are looking for professional advice on a paint color or a product. That will give them a variety of work experience.

In general, the WBL is an educational strategy that provides students with real-life work experiences where they can apply academic or technical skills and develop their employability. It is a series of educational courses which integrate the school or university curriculum with the workplace to create a different learning paradigm where there is the intersection of explicit and tacit forms of knowing.

Work-based learning encompasses unpaid internships, apprenticeships, work placement, and informal learning on the job. The key driver is the need for active policies to secure learning that meets the needs of the workplace.

WBL internships at local businesses such as Ricciardi Brothers help students build their resumes, explore career paths, and develop workplace readiness skills.

In early 2023, a small group of Calais students began their internship at the Morristown location of Riccardi Brothers Paints under the watchful eyes of their supervicont. on page 6

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • February 2024 • Page 5

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Ricciardi Brothers.. cont. from page 4

sor Victor Zywicki.

“The Calais School students get an inside look at the retail paint and decorating industry while participating in a variety of activities,” said Zywicki. “In a typical week, students are exposed to inventory management strategies, supply stocking techniques, and breaking down equipment at the end of their shift.”

The Ricciardi Brothers’ staff were thoughtful and engaging with the student interns and even taught them about the artform of paint mixing.

“The students have commented on how welcoming and appreciated the employees and customers made them feel,” said Zywici.

This on-site experience has also allowed student interns the opportunity to continue developing a diverse range of invaluable transferable skills in customer service, communication, time and inventory management, problem solving, and mindfulness.

“As far as them coming here, they do a great job,” said Zywicki.

“They ’re very enthusiastic. They are nice people, and I am happy to have them here and helping us out.

“It’s gotten to the point where we look forward to Tuesday and Thursday which are the days they come.

“The whole experience working with the Calais students has been positive,” said Zywicki, “Calais students really learned their jobs well and they were always so polite and pleasant to work with. We were so pleased with the students; we looked forward to working again with the Calais school.”

The Calais School’s Work Based Learning (WBL) program with local businesses has grown into a robust offering of hands-on training in a variety of industries including childcare, nonprofit, fashion retail, food retail, information services, healthcare, and pharmacy services. This partnership with Ricciardi Brothers enriches the student experience by adding the retail paint and decorating industry to their resumes.

“We have renewed the contract, and we’re currently doing it two days a week. We have four students, two on Tuesday and two on Thursday.

“I think they are getting used to a work atmosphere. They do retail work, they help us keep the store clean, and stock the shelves. We have color cards here that we use cont. on page 9

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • February 2024 • Page 7

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Tips for a Smooth Tax Season

ith tax season officially underway, here are tips to make filing your return as stress-free as possible: • Gather your tax information for filing. Items you’ll need include W-2s, 1099s, K-1s and other forms you receive from your business, employers, brokers, banks, and others. If you find any errors, contact the issuer immediately to request a corrected copy.

• Organize your records. Once you’ve started gathering your information, find a place to put all the documents as you receive them, or consider scanning documents to store on your computer. You can also take pictures of the documents with your phone as backup.

Missing information is one of the biggest reasons filing a tax return is delayed.

• Create an April 15th reminder. This is the deadline for filing your 2023 individual income tax return, completing gift tax returns, making contributions to a Roth or traditional IRA for 2023, and for paying the first installment of 2024 individual estimated taxes. So create a reminder that works for you.

• Know the deadlines for business returns. If you are a member in a partnership or a shareholder in an S corporation, the deadline for filing these business returns is March 15th. Calendar-year C corporation tax returns are due by April 15th.

• Clean up your auto log. Create and review the necessary logs to support your qualified business miles, moving miles, medical miles and charitable miles driven by you. Gather the logs and make a quick review to ensure they are up to date and totaled.

• Review your child’s income. Your child may be required to file a 2023 income tax return. A 2023 return is generally required if your child has earned more than $13,850, or has investment income such as dividends, interest, or capital gains that total more than $1,250.

• Contribute to your IRA and HSA. You can still make 2023 IRA and HSA contributions through either April 15th or when you file your tax return, whichever date is earlier. The maximum IRA contribution for 2023 is $6,500 ($7,500 if age 50 or older). The maximum HSA contribution is $3,850 for single taxpayers and $7,750 for families.

• Calculate your estimated tax if you need to extend. If you file an extension, you’ll want to do a quick calculation to estimate your 2023 tax liability. If you owe Uncle Sam any mon-

ey, you’ll need to write a check by April 15th even if you do extend.

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ALL ABOUT PETS

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Brought to you by Dr. Matthew Krupnick, the owner of Pequannock Animal Hospital

Coping with the Loss of a Pet

he strong bonds many people share with their pets can make the death of those pets, be it sudden or expected, difficult to handle. It’s not uncommon to be traumatized when a pet dies, and such grief may be influenced by the pet’s age at the time of its death, the circumstances surrounding that death and the nature of the relationship between the owner and pet.

Different pet owners deal with the death of a pet in different ways, but the following are some ways to cope with the loss of a companion animal.

Recognize that everyone feels differently. Grief is expressed in many different ways. What one person experiences may not be the norm for another. You may go through a variety of emotions, from anger at the circumstances and being left without your pet, to guilt if you believe there may have been something more you could have done to prolong the animal’s life. Mourn in your own way, and afford others the same opportunity.

Reach out to others. Grief often can turn a person inward, and your feelings may be bottled up. Talking about

your emotions, whether it’s with a trusted friend or even a therapist, may help. Online message boards that cover grief and pet loss may provide the support you need.

Leaning on others who have been in your shoes may help you recover more quickly.

Create mementos or a legacy for the pet. Creating mementos may help children who are having their own difficulty dealing with pet loss. Work with your child to create a photo album or plant a tree to honor your pet.

Dealing with a pet that must be euthanized can be especially difficult. Pet owners can choose to be in the room during the procedure, and that decision should not be made lightly. If you think you can handle it and you want to be there to comfort your pet, then you might be more comfortable being in the room. But being present when a pet is euthanized can be emotional, so give this decision serious consideration.

Once a pet has died, many owners debate whether or not to bring a new pet into their homes. Another animal around the house can fill the void created when

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your previous pet passed away, and some people adopt or buy a new pet before an old or sick pet passes away to make the transition as smooth as possible. A new pet should only be brought into the home when you’re ready to build a new relationship.

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.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • February 2024 • Page 9

The Secret Code of the Quilts

By Henry M. Holden n our 2021 December issue of Randolph Life, we shared the story of the Underground Railroad.

Since then, we have discovered new information about navigating the UGRR safely.

It involves coded quilts, and it follows below.

The Underground Railroad was a network of safe routes and safe houses established in the early to mid-19 century. It was used by enslaved African Americans primarily to escape to a free state or Canada.

All the underground railroad signal-to-slaves stories were orally transmitted for several generations, but there has never been written corroboration. This does not mean the codes and the story did not happen.

There is no doubt that there were communications between enslaved Africans on the run and safe houses.

One story describes a small

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Ricciardi Brothers.. cont. from page 6

for painting, so they help to sort them out. They stay for three-and-one half- hours every Tuesday and Thursday if they come through the school year.

“They do not get paid so they’re doing this for the learning experience and exposure. They’re all learning skills that they would need to fit into society and have a job.

“We don’t teach them how to mix the colors, that’s a separate training role, said Zywicki, “but they were able to do some things that are very helpful to us.

“For those students who have graduated from the Calais School, they may continue by choice to learn at the Calais School until they are 23 years old,” said

Soleau. “We have it pretty much down to a routine now.”

College readiness is addressed through our College Bridge Program in partnership with County College of Morris (CCM). https://thecalaisschool. org/#about

wood painted, black coachman, figure, used as a hitching post, or as a yard decoration,. It was in effect a signpost for fugitive black men. When the coachman’s light was lit, escapees knew that they had reached a safe house.

According to folklore, coded quilts were used to indicate a safe house along the underground railroad route.

Often the quilts would be hanging from a clothesline or windowsill, in plain sight. The quilter embedded a kind of code, which by reading the shapes, colors and the design cont. on page 10

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The Secret Code... cont. from page 9

the enslaved person on the road could know the area, and whether there was any immediate danger, or even where to head next.

Under certain circumstances the quilt may have a bow tie stitched on to the cloth. This would tell the fleeing person to dress in disguise to appear of a higher social status, for example, his master’s personal property.

A bear’s paw would tell someone to follow an animal trail through the mountains to find water and food. A log cabin would indicate that the people there are safe to speak with.

This writer can picture quick fingers working either in secret, or with a small group of like-minded women also working on quilts. The quilters knew that if they were caught there would be serious repercussions. But that was secondary to their cause. They were knitting quilts that would show an escaped black man (and sometimes, but not often, his whole family) a route to freedom.

Escaping men were often told to follow the north star for safe journey into Canada. Often, they began the trip at the first sign of spring when the weather was warming, and the snow had melted in the north.

The quilt was embedded with a kind of code, so that by reading the shapes and motifs in the design the enslaved person would know if the area posed an immediate danger.

At its center, a quilt is a gathering of historical and creative clues in the form of fabrics, shapes, symbols, textures, and colors, knowledge known almost exclusively to the African culture.

Many ancestors of the enslaved people believe it happened, but others question the legitimacy of such events.

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Sharon Tindall is a Virginia-based quilter, educator, and one in a tradition of contemporary quilters who designed informational works inspired by this “quilt code.”

“When I’m creating a quilt, I’m focused on the purpose of the quilt,” says Tindall. “I’m thankful I am able to create something of comfort.”

Not all believe the quilts are coded, but Tindall is a believer and defender of the codes. For Tindall, the quilts become vehicles for the voices and footprints of people running for their lives.

For Tindall, a quilt can be like a prayer. The pretext for her belief in the quilt codes is not unlike a person trying to explain supporting evidence for a belief in God. Simply put, Tindall is a believer.

“I have the gifts God has given me and I am returning them back to Him through the quilt codes.”

Quilts were often made to commemorate important family events such as marriage, a birth, or moving to a new place. Often made from scraps of various cloths, it gives physical, even functional, form to a family or individual’s past and present.

Prior to 1999, the codes were unheard of even in the African American quilting community. That’s according to Marsha MacDowell, a quilt scholar and director of the Quilt Index, a massive online catalog of more than 90,000 quilts.

In 1999, Jaqueline Tobin and Raymond G. Dobard published Hidden in Plain View: A Secret Story of Quilts and the Underground Railroad. The story made it through the usual established protocols of the the New York Times Book Review, NPR, and others. National Geographic and the Kennedy Center developed elementary school curricula that

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referenced the codes.

It should be noted that none of these institutions ever questioned the veracity of Tobin and Dobard’s claims; instead, they published book reviews as human-interest pieces and the public accepted it as fact. When we see an inspiring story online, from publications that have been around for more than 100 years there should be no doubt.

Soon the story had stand-alone status and there was no stopping it.

“Almost every February, stories appear in papers across the country,” MacDowell explains, referencing African American History Month. “If you’re wondering about our irritation, I think it’s more frustrating that the codes keep getting presented as fact.”

That is to say, the authenticity of quilt codes is, among other things, a matter of emphasis. Maybe the protocols for experiences of belief versus fact are just different. When a person believes something, they have no need for proof.

They don’t need dates, examples, nor firsthand accounts.

They don’t have to do anything except believe. For something to qualify as a fact, it needs evidence. To define “fact” is no easy undertaking.

Some historians float the issue that many of the quilt patterns cited as directives for enslaved peoples probably did not yet exist during the height of the Underground Railroad, between 1850 and 1860. Based on surveys of quilts made during these years, the evidence for some of these patterns just isn’t there, breaking the spell of this captivating story.

By 1793 enslaved Africans, were being imported in large cont. on page 20

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • February 2024 • Page 11

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Valentine’s Recipes You’ll Love to Share

f the way to your loved one's heart is through the stomach, there's no better way to start off this Valentine's Day than with a homemade breakfast prepared with love.

Whether you're whipping up a breakfast for a spouse with a sophisticated palate or trying to tempt the taste buds of your littlest loves, explore these ideas to get inspired. * Red is the color of love, so build your menu around fresh strawberries or raspberries, which pair perfectly with French toast or crepes, and can even dress up a simple cereal. * For a more sensible menu, opt for a fruity berry smoothie or a parfait layered with fresh fruit, low-fat yogurt and granola. Add a hint of loving indulgence by sprinkling dark chocolate shavings on top. * Show your affection with a plate of these colorful Cocoa-Kissed Red Velvet Pancakes featuring rich 100 percent cocoa, buttermilk and fresh berries. Heart-shaped cookie cutters lend a special touch to these fluffy, flavorful pancakes. Add sweet garnishes like powdered sugar and berries for a sensational way to say "I love you."

Find more recipes you'll love to share with your nearest and dearest this Valentine's Day at Culinary.net.

Cocoa-Kissed Red Velvet Pancakes Recipe courtesy of NestlÈ Servings: 10 pancakes

1 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup granulated sugar 3 tablespoons NestlÈ Toll House Baking Cocoa 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 large egg 1 cup reduced-fat buttermilk or low-fat milk 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon red food coloring heart-shaped pancake cutters or cookie cutters (optional) butter, for garnish (optional) powdered sugar, for garnish (optional) maple syrup, for garnish (optional) fresh berries, for garnish (optional) In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt; stir well.

In separate large bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, unsalted butter, vanilla extract and food coloring. Add to flour mixture; stir to combine. Allow mixture to sit 5 minutes.

Heat nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush

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with oil or butter. Add about 1/4 cup batter to skillet. Cook about 2 minutes, or until bubbles start to form on top. Flip and cook 1-2 minutes, or until bottom is lightly browned.

Serve immediately with butter, powdered sugar, syrup and berries, if desired.

Tip: If using pancake or cookie cutters, be sure to coat with oil so pancakes don't stick. Place cutters in skillet and pour batter into cutters. Remove cutters before flipping.

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Quick, Easy Recipes to Add to Your Dinner Rotation Simple, nutritious meals to make more time for family

M

aking time for meals together can have a positive impact on the well-being of families, including children and adolescents. In fact, regular meals at home can help reduce stress and boost self-esteem, according to research published in "Canadian Family Physician."

Mealtime conversations are also a perfect opportunity to connect with your loved ones. A study published in "New Directions for Child and Adolescent Development" showed these conversations help improve children's vocabularies more than being read aloud to.

Making time for meals together shouldn't require spending all night in the kitchen, however. A simple-to-prepare ingredient like eggs can help you spend less time cooking and more time with family.

For example, these heart-healthy recipes for Poached Egg Tostadas with Avocado-Tomatillo Salsa, Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs and Poblano Frittata from the Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland's Best, are ready in

15 minutes or less. They include a wide variety of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and healthy protein sources, which are recommended by the American Heart Association to help prevent heart disease and stroke.

To find more tips for family mealtimes and recipe inspiration, visit heart.org/ eatsmart.

Poached Egg Tostadas with Avocado-Tomatillo Salsa Servings: 4 (1 egg and 1/2 cup salsa per serving) Nonstick cooking spray 4 corn tortillas (6 inches each) 4 cups water

1 tablespoon white vinegar 4 large eggs Salsa: 1 medium avocado, diced 1 medium Anaheim or poblano pepper, seeds and ribs discarded, diced 1 medium tomatillo, papery husk discarded, washed and diced 1/2 medium tomato, diced 1/4 cup diced red onion 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1 medium garlic clove, minced 1/8 teaspoon salt Preheat oven to 400 F. Line baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly spray foil with nonstick cooking spray.

Arrange tortillas in single layer on foil.

Lightly spray tortillas with nonstick cooking spray. Using fork, pierce tortillas to prevent from filling with air. Bake 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer to serving plates.

In large skillet over high heat, bring water and vinegar to boil.

Once water is boiling, reduce heat and simmer. Break egg into cup then carefully slip egg into simmering water. Repeat with remaining eggs, avoiding eggs touching in water. Simmer 3-5 minutes, or until egg whites are completely set and yolks are beginning to set but aren't hard. Using slotted spoon, drain eggs. Place each egg on tostada.

To make salsa: In medium bowl, gently stir together avocado, pepper, tomatillo, tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, garlic and salt. Serve with tostadas.

Nutritional information per serving: 185 calories; 11 g total fat; 2.5 g saturated fat; 3 g polyunsaturated fat; 5 g monounsaturated fat; 186 mg cholesterol; 169 mg sodium; 15 g carbohydrates; 3 g fiber; 2 g total sugars; 9 g protein.

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Poblano Frittata Servings: 4 (2 wedges per serving) 4 large eggs 1/4 cup fat-free milk 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 1 teaspoon olive oil 2 medium poblano peppers, seeds and ribs discarded, chopped 2 cups frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed 2 medium green onions, chopped 1/4 cup finely shredded Cotija cheese or crumbled queso fresco 1 medium tomato, chopped 1/4 cup fat-free sour cream In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cilantro.

In medium skillet over medium heat, heat oil, swirling to coat bottom of skillet.

Cook poblano peppers 3 minutes, or until browning on edges, stirring frequently.

Stir in corn and green onion. Reduce heat to medium-low and carefully pour in egg mixture. Cook, covered, 10 minutes, or until mixture is just set on edges and still soft in center. Avoid overcooking. Remove from heat. rinkle with cheese. Cut into eight wedges. Place two wedges on each plate. Top with tomatoes and sour cream.

Nutritional information per serving: 244 calories; 8.5 g total fat; 2.5 g saturated fat; 1.5 g polyunsaturated fat; 3 g monounsaturated fat; 192 mg cholesterol; 177 mg sodium; 27 g carbohydrates; 4 g fiber; 8 g total sugars; 13 g protein.

Servings: 4 (1 cup per serving) 2 teaspoons canola or corn oil 1/2 medium onion, chopped 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1/2 medium red or green bell pepper, chopped 2/3 cup fat-free, low-sodium vegetable broth 2 teaspoons minced garlic 2 teaspoons smoked paprika 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper 1/8 teaspoon salt 4 large eggs hot pepper sauce (optional)

make small well in potatoes. Slip egg into well. Repeat with remaining eggs, making separate well for each egg. Secure lid with pressure vent open. Saute 2 minutes. Let stand on "keep warm" setting 2 minutes, or until eggs are cooked to desired consistency.

Serve hash sprinkled with dash of hot pepper sauce, if desired.

Nutritional information per serving: 258 calories; 7.5 g total fat; 2 g saturated fat; 1.5 g polyunsaturated fat; 3 g monounsaturated fat; 186 mg cholesterol; 244 mg sodium; 39 g carbohydrates; 6 g fiber; 9 g total sugars; 10 g protein.

Source: American Heart Association (Family Features)

In pressure cooker set on saute, heat oil.

Cook onion 3 minutes, or until soft, stirring frequently. Turn off pressure cooker.

Stir in potatoes, bell pepper, broth, garlic, paprika, cumin, thyme, pepper and salt. Secure lid. Cook on high pressure 3 minutes. Quickly release pressure. Turn off pressure cooker.

Remove pressure cooker lid. Crack one egg into small bowl. Using back of spoon,

Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs

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Solve Dinnertime Dilemmas with Speedy, Nutritious Whole Grains

utting dinner on the table quickly seems to be a goal more often than not, particularly in today's sped-up world. However, spending less time cooking doesn't have to mean sacrificing nutrition or taste.

To enjoy better-for-you meals in the blink of an eye, lean into versatile ingredients prepared without the hassle like Minute Brown Rice & Quinoa Cups. In just 1 minute, you can savor a blend of two 100% whole grains with the crunchiness of red quinoa and chewy texture of brown rice that total 55 grams of whole grains and provide a good source of fiber in each serving.

Packed in single-serve portions, you can eat right out of the BPA-free cup or serve the whole grains as the base of this speedy Sweet Chili Shrimp with

Quinoa mixed with succulent shrimp, umami-like flavors from sweet chili sauce and the satisfying flavor and crunch of green onions and chopped peanuts. A delicious dish that's filling without the fuss, this recipe is ready in less than 5 minutes to save time without relying on takeout.

Switch up your family's stir-fry routine with this savory version of Whole Grain Sesame Chicken StirFry made with rice, quinoa, vegetables, rotisserie chicken and a blend of soy sauce and sesame oil. This simple meal is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to save time without skimping on taste.

Ready to complement the succulent chicken and sesame-infused veggies, Minute Instant Rice & Quinoa offers a blend of four whole-grain ingredients:

brown rice, red rice, wild rice and quinoa. Available in four convenient, pre-portioned, two-serving bags, it cooks in just 10 minutes for light, fluffy and delicious nutty flavor for recipe versatility from breakfast to dessert so you can rely on it as a family favorite for less time cooking and more time enjoying meals and moments together.

To find more quick, nutritious dinner solutions, visit MinuteRice.com.

Sweet Chili Shrimp with Quinoa Prep time: 2 minutes Cook time: 2 minutes Servings: 1

1 Minute Brown Rice & Quinoa Cup 4 ounces (1/2 cup) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined 1/2 cup frozen Asian-style mixed vegetables, thawed 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts Heat rice and quinoa cup according to package directions. In small, microwave-safe bowl, combine shrimp and vegetables.

Microwave on high 30 seconds.

Stir in sweet chili sauce.

Blend well.

Serve shrimp mixture over rice topped with green onions and peanuts.

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Whole Grain Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry Prep time: 3 minutes Cook time: 12 minutes Servings: 3-4 1 bag Minute Instant Rice & Quinoa 1 cup vegetable broth 1 tablespoon sesame oil, divided 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 cups rotisserie cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups frozen, Asian-style mixed vegetables, thawed 2 tablespoons soy sauce

tions, substituting broth for water.

In medium wok or skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil. Add eggs and, using spatula, quickly soft scramble. Continue stirring eggs until light and fluffy.

Remove from pan and reserve.

Add remaining sesame oil to wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry 2 minutes.

Add chicken and vegetables; stir-fry 2 minutes, or until heated through. Fold in rice and quinoa, eggs and soy sauce.

Source: Minute Rice Family Features

Prepare rice and quinoa according to package direc-

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Danielle Fiorina Awarded the Gold Level of the 2023 NJ Realtors® Circle of Excellence Sales Award

entury 21 Crest Real Estate, Inc. is pleased to announce that Danielle Fiorina has been awarded the NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Sales Award Gold Level for 2023. This is Danielle’s 10th year obtaining this award level by having an annual minimum of $12 million in sales.

In 2020 and 2021, she had obtained the Platinum Level award for 2 consecutive years, having an annual minimum of $20 million in sales.

Danielle is also the recipient of the Century 21 Masters Diamond Award, Quality Service Pinnacle Producer Award, and Top Office Producer for 2023.

Danielle is a member of the NJ REALTORS® Distinguished Sales Club for achieving the Circle of Excellence Sales Award for a minimum of 10 years and is also a member of the CENTURION® Honor Society.

“We are thrilled to acknowledge Danielle’s accomplishments. Her hard work and dedication to her real estate business is evidenced by the many awards Danielle has received throughout the years,” said Patricia Wojtyszyn, Broker/Owner Century 21 Crest Real Estate, Inc. “My clients always come first. Understanding their personal goals and needs is at the heart of my real estate business, and I believe it is the foundation for an effective client/realtor relationship. I am very grateful to my clients for putting their trust in me and thrilled to be acknowledged by

NJ REALTORS® for this distinguished award.” says Fiorina.

Danielle Fiorina has built her reputation on professionalism and honesty. As a former business owner and accoun-

tant/controller, she is very innovative and promotes her client’s needs to successfully reach their goal. Fiorina has been a professional realtor and top producer in the industry since 2006 and provides one-on-one personal expertise to each and every client from start to finish.

When you choose Danielle, you work directly, and only with Danielle. Call Danielle to put her experience to work for you and for all your real estate needs. Danielle can be reached at 973-460-4352.

Century 21 Crest Real Estate, Inc. has serviced the Northern New Jersey area since 1981, CENTURY 21 Crest Real Estate, Inc. has enjoyed a fine reputation specializing in residential, commercial and rental properties. CENTURY 21 Crest Real Estate, Inc. is an award-winning, full service real estate agency. They are an independently owned and operated franchise affiliate of Century 21 Real Estate LLC, the iconic brand and franchisor of the world’s largest residential real estate sales organization, comprised of 13,000 franchised broker offices in 84 countries and territories worldwide with more than 142,000 independent sales professionals. The Century 21® System provides brand marks, marketing, communications and innovative technology solutions that help enable its franchisees and their independent agents to attract and engage prospects, nurture customers, and deliver a positive real estate transaction experience.

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The Secret Code... cont. from page 10

numbers. There was a great deal of money to be made in the slave trade and for cotton farmers. White plantation owners began to see threats by black men and women who wanted their freedom.

In 1793, and again in 1850, Congress passed the fugitive slave laws (which were repealed in 1864) that provided for the seizure and return of runaway Africans who escaped the plantation.

Between 1850 and 1860 many saw an extreme need for the codes. White plantation owners began to fear for their lives and lobbied Congress to pass a Fugitive Slave Act. The first Fugitive Slave act of 1793 was a federal law that was written with the intent to enforce Article 4, Section 2, Clause 3, of the US Constitution which requires the return of escaped black men to the plantation. It was ineffective so Congress passed a second Fugitive Slave Act in 1850. It imposed sever penalties on the white offenders thus some say in creating the codes for survival.

The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 said captured fugitives could not testify on their own behalf, nor were they permitted a trial by jury. Heavy penalties were imposed upon federal marshals who refused to enforce the law from where a fugitive had escaped.

The pros and cons as to whether there were codes is a debate that occurs every February during Black History Month and probably will continue for years to come.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

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WINTER HOME IMPROVEMENT

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5 Steps to Winterize Your Home

ithout a little prep work and routine maintenance, winter weather can wreak havoc on your home. Following a few simple steps can help you avoid frozen pipes, drafty rooms and slippery sidewalks.

1. Clear Gutters - Melting snow will have nowhere to go if gutters are clogged with leaves and debris.

2. Protect Pipes - Open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks so warm air can surround pipes. Drain outside spigots before temperatures drop below freezing.

3. Improve Insulation - Cold air can seep in through openings around windows and doors. Install weather stripping and seal openings with caulk to insulate cracks and crevices.

5. Control the Temperature - Set the thermostat to at least 65 F during winter months. Consider installing an energy efficient or programmable thermostat.

Find more home maintenance advice at eLivingtoday. com. Source: eLivingtoday.com

4. Prevent Slips and Falls - Keep sidewalks and driveways clear of ice and snow. Sprinkle deicing salt on steps, sidewalks and driveways to prevent accidents.

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Trendy Takes on Kitchen and Bath Design

(Family Features) Designing a new home, remodeling your own or simply rethinking aesthetics and decor all require a little imagination and a lot of inspiration. A quick online search brings up hundreds if not thousands of thoughtful ways to make your kitchen or bathroom match your desired style from modern to traditional or anything in

between.

All those results can be slightly overwhelming, however. Rather than having a go at it alone, rely on the professionals to guide you toward looks that are all the rage and fit a variety of budgets. Consider these on-trend design ideas from the kitchen and bathroom experts at Wellborn Cabinet, whose whole-home

solutions double as functional and beautiful.

Kitchen Trends Let it Flow: Open concepts have become quite common as it allows the kitchen to feel like one large room where loved ones and guests can intermingle as opposed to an enclosed space. This flowing openness lends continuous visibility to the area ranging from the (seemingly) always active kitchen to gathering spaces in the dining and living rooms. An open floor plan also helps connect design aesthetics from each room to the next.

Opt for Concealed Storage: Pots, pans, knives and all your favorite kitchen gadgets need hidden somewhere. Rather than taking up valuable pantry space, turn to a stylish storage solution from Wellborn Cabinet's line of pullout cabinets that give you the

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973 296 3307 room you need. With options ranging from pullout peg boards to sleek tray dividers, these clever contraptions can help you stay organized while making functionality beautiful.

Incorporate Smart Tech: Trends aren't exclusively about aesthetics - practicality via technology is equally important for those looking to update their kitchens to the 21st century. Devices

like smart refrigerators that allow you to take inventory from an app, smart lighting that brightens and dims to save on electricity and voice assistants that help you keep track of recipes are all trendy paths toward a topof-the-line kitchen.

Bring in Organic Touches: Organic modern is in, which means adding organic touches using natural materials like stone and wood in

your cabinets, countertops, flooring and more. Achieve a warm vibe with these organic elements paired with a neutral color palette (soft whites and earthy tones) and natural light.

Bathroom Trends Add Accents that Pop: Obvious accents like bold pops of color and unique patterns come to mind, but you can also make your cont. on page 28

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Trendy Takes..

cont. from page 27

bathroom stand out by experimenting with materials, accessories and shapes. Think eye-catching cabinet hardware, fun mirror shapes and open-shelf decor that grabs attention without overdoing it.

Show Off Wood Vanities: As an important area you'll use to get ready for each day, vanities should be purposeful and practical but can also brandish your personal style. Types and sizes may vary but one look seeing an upward trend, according to Wellborn Cabinet's design experts, is the use of natural tones and textures like woodgrain to complement the rise in popularity of warm colors in recent years.

Go for Decorative Lighting: The same tired light fixtures in bathrooms can feel drab and dreary. Evaluate the amount of natural light available (often at a premium in bathrooms) and decide if you can go more subdued or need to effectively and efficiently illuminate the area. Bell-shaped, wall-mounted sconces next to mirrors are in vogue, as are glass globes to complement ample natural light. For a true touch of modern flair, consider dramatic accent lighting like underlights on a floating vanity that do double duty as a convenient nightlight.

Make it Spa-Like: Lavish luxury is the goal with a spa-like bathroom in the comfort of home. Organic materials, natural light, traditional decor and, maybe most importantly, an

oversized soaking tub are at the core of this look. While it may sound counterintuitive, you can actually create your own oasis with some simple, budget-friendly aesthetics.

The first step for many is to incorporate more storage using sleek cabinets, shelves and wall-mounted hooks to achieve a decluttered look. Next, simply replace your old showerhead and faucet with spa lookalikes and stock up on plush, fluffy towels for that luxurious appearance without a complete remodel.

Find more design inspiration by visiting Wellborn.com.

4 Alternative Uses for Kitchen Cabinets If you love the look of beautiful kitchen cabinets and appreciate their functionality, try incorporating them throughout the house with these ideas.

• Home Office - As working from home continues to rise in popularity, you might need that extra storage space around or above your desk whether it’s in a full-blown office or a nook in the den.

• Laundry Room - Uppers and lowers alike can help you stow away detergents, cleaning products, laundry baskets and even last season’s wardrobe.

• Mud Room - All those shoes and jackets need space somewhere, and kitchen cabinets in the mudroom can help you contain the mess.

• Garage - Whether your garage serves as a secondary entertainment area, home gym or simply storage for outdoor tools and toys, cabinets allow you to organize (and hide) that equipment.

Source: Wellborn Cabinet

Adult Programs at Butler Public Library

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amily 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 Children’s Room at the Butler Library Please call the Butler Library at: 973-838-3262 to sign up.

Friday, January 26, 2024: Trolls Band Together DVD (2023) PG 1 hour 31 minutes Tuesday Afternoon Movies On the last Tuesday of every month at 2:00 pm In the Children’s Room at the Butler Library Are you looking for something to do on a Tuesday afternoon?

If so, join us once a month for a Tuesday matinee movie at 2:00 pm shown on our 70′ Flat Screen TV at the Butler Public Library. All movies are appropriate for adult viewing. Please call the Butler Library at: 973-838-3262.

Movies Dates: February 27: What Happens Later? (2023) March 26: Priscilla (2023) Maker’s Day – Make a Birdhouse Saturday, March 16, 2024 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm Join us for this craft and make a birdhouse at Butler Library.

All craft supplies will be provided for this program. This free program is limited to 10 adults. Registration is required, please call the Butler Library at 973-838-3262, to sign up.

Chair Yoga Classes In-Person at Butler Public Library Every Wednesday in February and March 2024 Class Times: 11:30 am or 1:00 pm (Choose one class) Presented by Taylor Walek, Yoga Instructor Chair Yoga is a gentle form of yoga that is beneficial to all.

In these classes Taylor will lead you through mindful centering and breathing practices and yoga poses with the aid of a chair. This practice is a great form of yoga for beginners,

those with physical disabilities, balance issues or anyone who has trouble getting down and up off the floor. Benefits of chair yoga include increased mobility, strength, balance, concentration and relaxation. Ultimately the goal of this class is to leave feeling good! Please call the Butler Library at: 973-838-3262, or stop by our Circulation Desk to sign up.

Virtual Adult Library Program Avoiding Garden Bloopers – aka Right Plant, Right Place, Right Effect Zoom Presentation Tuesday, March 26, 2024 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm Presented by Gail Di Domenico, Master Gardener This presentation covers hardiness zones, soil pH and conditions, light exposure, plant characteristics, features and attractions. Information on trees, shrubs, perennials, vines, ground covers, bulbs and annuals will be provided, along with many photos and suggestions. Whether you are hiring a professional or doing it yourself, planting an expensive tree or a tiny annual, it pays to be in the know to protect and increase the value of your landscape investments. Proper selection and techniques save time, money, and labor and add to gardening enjoyment. This presentation is brought to you by the Master Gardeners of Morris County Speakers Bureau and Butler Public Library. Please visit this website, under Adult Programs for the link to register for this Zoom Meeting: www.butlerlibrary.org or click the link below: Register in advance for this meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEvc-yrrTIuE9M1sYGszdEMBdfF-F1fBlmk After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Virtual Adult Library Program Deer Management in Forests and Backyards Zoom Presentation Tuesday, April 9, 2024 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm Presented by Cheri Wilczek, Master Gardener What does it take to keep deer away from your garden and plants? This talk will address what you need to know about deer, deer management and what plants (bulbs, annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees) should be planted to prevent deer from foraging in your gardens and yards.

This presentation is brought to you by the Master Gardeners of Morris County Speakers Bureau and Butler Public Library.

Please visit this website, under Adult Programs for the link to register for this Zoom Meeting: www.butlerlibrary.org or click the link below: Register in advance for this meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrd-GtrT8sEtM6yjp6gMmVrayDpL0UXTYT After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting Butler Public Library 1 Ace Road Butler, NJ 07405 973-838-3262 More information on our website: www.butlerlibrary.org Follow us on Facebook: Butler Public Library Follow us on Instagram: butlerlibrarynj

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • February 2024 • Page 29

R

2024 Events for Children: Welcome to the New Year

egister on Google Forms or visit the Library to sign up.

Story Time Tuesdays at 10:30am January 9 – March 27 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 children. Registration is required on Google Forms. 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.

Toddler Time Thursdays at 10:30am January 11 – March 29 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. Registration is required on Google Forms. 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.

February BINGO When: Saturday, Feb. 10 Time: 11:00 – 11:30pm Ages: 5 – 10 Join us for February BINGO. Prizes will be awarded to those who are winners of each BINGO game. Each child needs to be registered separately on Google Forms so we have an accurate count of attendees. 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.

Ceramic Surprise When: Monday, Feb. 12 Time: 4:00 – 4:45pm Ages: 3 – 10 yrs.

Choose from a variety of ceramic pieces to paint. All supplies are provided by the library. Children under 5, will need to have a parent paint with them. Each child needs to be registered separately on Google Forms so we have an accurate count of attendees.

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 973-8383262.

S.T.E.A.M. YETI Pillow Sign up for either date. Monday, Feb. 5 or Saturday Feb 17.

When: Saturday, Feb. 17 Time: 11:00 – 11:45pm Ages: 5 – 12 years Register on Google Forms or visit the Library to register.

Children who attend this program need to be able to tie a double knot in order to create the pillow or parent/ guardian will need to join in.

This free program is limited to 24 participants. If you need help registering on Google Forms, please call the library at 973-838-3262. If you are no longer able to attend after you sign up for this program, please call the library and let us know.

S.T.E.M. Ozobots When: Monday, Feb. 26 Time: 6:00 – 6:45pm Ages: 5 – 10 years Children actively learn the basics of coding while using coding puzzles or coding activities for EVO Ozobots. This free program is limited to 12 participants. If you need help registering on Google Forms, please call the library at 973-838-3262. If you are

no longer able to attend after you sign up for this program, please call the library and let us know.

S.T.E.M. TINKERCAD Club When: March 18 & 25 Time: 4:00 – 5:00 PM Ages: 8 – 10 Learn Tinkercad and create a 3D project with Ms. Arlene.

Tinkercad is a 3D modeling program. Participants should try to attend both meetings because each class builds on the previous class. Register on Google Forms. Each child needs to be registered separately on Google Forms so we have an accurate count of attendees. 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 Maker’s Day S.T.E.M. Introduction to Speed Cup Stacking When: Saturday, March 16 Time: 11:00 – 11:45am Ages: 6 – 11 years “Speed Cup Stacking is a Sport that originated in the early 1980’s in southern California and received national attention in 1990.” Register

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on GOOGLE Forms if you are interested in this one day cup stacking class to learn Step 1: Three stack and 6 stack. (33-3) If there is an interest in this program, other classes will be scheduled. This class is limited to 10 children who will share a set of cups. Each child needs to be registered separately on Google Forms so we have an accurate count of attendees. 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.

Maker’s Day S.T.E.A.M.: Grinch Pillow When: Saturday, March 16, Time: 11:00 – 11:45am Ages: 8 – 12 years Register on Google Forms or visit the Library to register.

Join us at the Library for Maker’s Day when we gather as makers in New Jersey and complete STEM or STEAM activities. Each child needs to be registered separately on Google Forms so we have an accurate count of attendees. 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.

Maker’s Day S.T.E.M. Ozobots When: Saturday, March 16 Time: 1:00 – 1:45pm Ages: 5 – 10 years Register on Google Forms or visit the Library to register.

Children actively learn the basics of coding while using coding puzzles or coding activities for EVO Ozobots. This free program is limited to 12 participants. If you need help registering on Google Forms, please call the library at 973-838-3262. If you are no longer able to attend after you sign up for this program, please call the library and let us know.

Butler Public Library 1 Ace Road, Butler, NJ 07405 973-838-3262 More information on our website: www.butlerlibrary.org Follow us on Facebook: Butler Public Library Follow us on Instagram: butlerlibrarynj

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Page 30 • February 2024 • Hometown Life • Like us on www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

60 Seconds Through 12.21.23

Probate robate is the process through which an executor qualifies by bringing a death certificate and original will to the Surrogate’s Court for review and confirmation.

Once all items are received and reviewed, the probate process will lead to the issuance of Letters Testimentary. It is only once Letters Testimentary are provided to them that banks, motor vehicle, the IRS, and others are able to accept the authority of the Executor to act on behalf of the estate of a deceased individual.

Multiple Wills Find the most recent original will, a copy cannot be probated. Each will should state that it revokes all prior wills and, by operation of law, the most recently dated will prevails. In the event that an original of the most recent will cannot be found, in contested cases the matter will often go to court with the copy of the most recent will being presented as evidence. In non-contested cases with substantially similar dispositions, the Executor and beneficiaries may find it best to probate the most recent original will. In other cases, the copy of the will may have the same disposition as the laws of intestacy and the family can apply for letters of administration, without the will, as opposed to letters testamentary.

What happens without a will This situation is called dying intestate. Your belongings will be passed to your family according to the laws of intestacy. If you are married and leave children who are also the children of your spouse, then your spouse will inherit 100% of your estate. If you leave a spouse and children from another marriage or partner, then your spouse will receive the first 25% of your estate (not less than $50,000 nor more than $200,000), plus ½ of the balance of the estate and your chil-

P

dren will share equally in the other ½ of the balance of the estate. If you have no spouse or children, then your parents stand next in line, followed by your siblings and their descendants. The laws of intestacy are quite comprehensive and do not always result in a distribution that you contemplated or would desire.

Why should a small business be placed into a trust.

By holding a small business within a trust, upon the death of the owner, the business can continue running, sold, or otherwise without being delayed by probate. Any items held in trust pass outside of probate. Although probate can be a very simple process, probate cannot take place until at least 10 days after death. 10 days can be a long time for some businesses to wait to right checks, make deposits, and more.

Additionally, in the event of a contest, probate could be a very lengthy process and also result in a strain on the health of a business that you want to pass on to family.

Citizens Guide to Wills Trusts and Estates Available in booklet form at the Morris County Surrogate’s Court or online via pdf at morrissurrogate.com and loaded with valuable information for anyone planning to make a will or for a representative navigating the duties of executor or administrator.

E-filing Allows you to file for probate or administration from the comfort of your own home. Simply access the e-filing section of the Morris County Surrogate’s Court website at morrissurrogate.com and upload the will and death certificate if seeking letters testamentary or only the death certificate if seeking letter of administration. Follow the prompts to input information and you can complete the process via regular mail and choose between paying by check or online via credit card.

What does the Surrogate do?

In Morris County, we have approximately 500,000 residents. Should any of those residents pass away, need a guardianship, or undertake an adoption, those matters will go through the Morris County Surrogate’s Court. Uncontested probate matters are processed directly in the Surrogate’s Court, while contested probates, guardianships, and adoptions are decided by the Superior Court with the Surrogate acting as Clerk of the Superior Court in such matters. Once matters, whether contested or uncontested, are decided, the Surrogate’s Court then ensures that all necessary documentation is completed and provided to the appropriate individuals.

Personal Record Book Available in booklet form at the Morris County Surrogate’s Court or in .pdf form at morrissurrogate.com is the Personal Record Book. Within the booklet, there are spaces for your name, spouse, marriage records, divorce records, military information, brokers, attorneys, accountants, passwords, and other information that would be helpful to an executor or power of attorney in the event of an emergency. We highly recommend compiling this information and keeping it with your will in a safe and secure location.

Designated Beneficiary IRA, Trust, Insurance, and other designated beneficiary investments and holdings pass outside of probate. A death certificate will suffice to the entity or institution holding the assets and you will not need to find a will or go through the process of probate or administration for such assets. Designated beneficiary vehicles are not necessarily the right choice for every situation but are always worth considering. cont. on page 31

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60 Seconds ... cont. from page 30

Original will vs copy A copy of a will cannot be probated. In the event that an original will cannot be found, the next of kin can apply for an administration, in the event that the same or similar distribution to family members would be achieved as what would have been under the copy of the will or, the matter must proceed to Superior Court wherein the copy of the will may be considered as proof of the testator’s intent, along with any other admissible evidence submitted.

Where to keep your will Keep you will where it’s not subject to flood, fire, or destruction by other methods. Also, make sure your executor knows where to find your will. Finally, make sure that your executor can access your will after your death, this means that it should not be in a safety deposit box.

Refunding bond & release Every executor should get this document back signed by each and every beneficiary before distributing the funds from the estate. A refunding bond and release protects the executor from future claims by beneficiaries. It also protects the executor from having to make personal payouts to others by ensuring that, in the event of unforeseen future claims against the estate assets, the executor will receive funds back from any beneficiary to which distribution was inadvertently made when the claim was unknown. The refunding bond and release also signifies that the beneficiary has been made aware of their right to review the accounting of the estate by the executor and have it examined by an expert to ensure that they have received their full inheritance.

Designated beneficiary for motor vehicle Recently, legislation was passed in New Jersey affording individuals the right to designate a beneficiary for their motor vehicle within the vehicle registration process. Many individuals spend the end of their lives living on social security with their single biggest asset being an older motor vehicle.

Beneficiaries or administrators often find themselves having to dispose of the motor vehicle with the personal cost to them for probate exceeding the value of the motor vehicle from which they may recover their funds. This new legislation affords both convenience and cost savings to New Jersey residents.

Guardianship accounting filing instructions I am often asked by individuals required to fill out routine

S

urrogate Heather J. Darling, Esq., was elected Surrogate in 2019. She received her bachelor’s degree from New York University in Finance and International Business in 1990 and earned her law degree, Doctor of Jurisprudence, in 2002 from Seton

Hall School of Law. Heather opened her own law practice in 2004 and focused on Family, Wills, Trusts and Estates in addition to Business and Criminal law, serving Morris County for over 19 years.

She is a member of the New Jersey, New York, and Morris County Bar Associations.

Heather also continues to operate her father’s real estate business.

Heather is a former Morris County Freeholder and Deputy of the Board. She took office as Morris County’s first woman Surrogate in January of 2020. Heather has made significant advancements to the Surrogate’s Office, the means by

Guardianship accounting forms, where they can find instructions. The guardianship accounting forms themselves contain very specific and detailed instructions that will walk you through the process of completing and filing them.

Why guardianship accountings are required Especially for parents who have been financially responsible for their child during the child’s entire life, it is hard to understand why they need to account for how the child’s sometimes very limited funds are being spent. The accountings are designed to protect a ward, who has been declared incapacitated, from would be wrongdoing. While it is not to suggest that a parent would take advantage of their child, any more than a child would take advantage of an elderly parent, even one instance is too many in this case and he courts have deemed it a necessary safeguard for those unable to manage their own affairs.

Why a trust should be considered in a second marriage In the event that you have children from a first marriage, and you are now in a second or subsequent marriage, you may wish to protect both your current spouse as well as your children. Should you leave all of your assets to your spouse outright and their relationship with your kids is weak or weakens over time, your spouse may leave all of their assets, including yours, to someone other than your children.

In order to protect your spouse financially after your passing, while also ensuring that your children are the final recipients of your assets, you can create a trust for the benefit of your spouse during their lifetime with your children as the ultimate beneficiaries upon the passing of your spouse. Remember, a trust is not for everyone or for every occasion so your should always consult an estate planning attorney to determine the best plan for you and your family.

Renunciation In the event that you are named as executor under someone’s will but are unwilling or unable to act at the time of their passing, you can renounce. Renunciation is an act wherein you sign away your right to act as executor thereby allowing your successor named under the will to act. In the event that there is no successor named under the will, the next of kin will be able to apply for an administration.

Surrogate’s minors’ account This fund is comprised of funds belonging to individuals under the age of 18 who may have inherited funds, re-

ceived settlement proceeds or otherwise. Such funds must be deposited with the Surrogate’s Court in order to ensure those funds are safely stewarded forward for a minor until their 18th birthday. In the event that a parent or guardian wishes to withdraw funds, they must make an application to the Superior Court and a judge will decide whether the expense justifies reducing the funds of the child. Expenses for education are typically granted but extravagant family vacations may not receive approval. The goal is to ensure that the minor’s funds are spent in a fashion most beneficial to the minor’s future or available to the minor upon their 18th birthday to give them a head start on tuition, housing, transportation, or other things they may need at that time.

Do not write on your will Cross-outs, additions, arrows and other writing will likely result in your will ending up in front of a Superior Court Judge for a determination of validity as to some or all matters. This can come at significant expense and delay to your family members. To make changes, draft a codicil to the will or simply visit your attorney and have a new will drafted including the changes you wish to make.

Including your spouse in your will post divorce Once a divorce has been finalized, your spouse will automatically be removed form your will as executor and beneficiary. This will be done by operation of law, without you needing to draft a new will. Should you wish to include your spouse as an executor or beneficiary under your will after you are divorced, you must draft a new will that clearly indicates the date of divorce, that the will postdates the divorce, and that you do wish for your spouse to be included as an executor, beneficiary, or both.

Filing a caveat In the event that you believe that you have standing in the matter, meaning you’re a likely beneficiary under other circumstances, and want to stop a will from being probated, you may do so by filing a caveat. The caveat stops probate to give you time to file a complaint and order to show cause with the Superior Court. Once the matter is filed, the Superior Court Judge will make a determination as to the rightful heir or heirs.

which Surrogates in New Jersey can assist the public including services such as virtual filing of documents to probate wills; an idea conceived by Heather to serve seniors and citizens with mobility issues which became indispensable to the public by COVID-19.

Additionally, she advocated for electronic wills and electronic signatures on qualifying documents in New Jersey probate matters.

Surrogate Darling was elected President of the Board for the Constitutional Officers of New Jersey (COANJ) in September 2023.

Heather hosts her own talk show “Have You Heard” with Heather Darling. Sur-

prosecutor. She has also served as Vice Chair of the Roxbury Economic Development Committee. She was a member of the Roxbury Zoning Board and served on Roxbury’s Environmental Commission and Dog Park Committee. She has been a member of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, the Roxbury Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Morris, the Parsippany Chamber of Commerce, and the Roxbury Rotary. She is also a charter member of the recently restarted Roxbury Kiwanis.

During pandemic lockdowns, Heather spent much of her community service time helping those

rogate Darling recently completed Professional Development Academy for High Performance Leaders and received her Masters certificate in Leading in Analytics. She formerly served as Vice President of COANJ, Secretary of COANJ and Section Chief of the Surrogates. Surrogate Darling was named Woman of the Year 2023 by the New Jersey GOP. She serves on the Employment Horizons Community Advisory Board and is an Ambassador for the Morris County 200 Club.

Heather is dedicated to community service. She has served her local municipality as the appointed public defender and alternate

in need by serving at local food distribution events.

She has also focused much of her attention, using her office as a platform for the special needs community, providing a voice for those who cannot represent themselves, including those with special needs, seniors, and animals.

Heather Darling resides in Roxbury where she has lived most of her life in her family home.

Page 32 • February 2024 • Hometown Life • Like us on www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

A Valentine’s Day Story

By Richard Mabey Jr. n August of 1942, my father had just finished his basic training, in the United States Army, at Fort McClellan in Alabama. He was granted a week’s leave. Dad was about to be assigned to the Seventh Army Air Corps, to be dispatched to Hickam Airfield in Hawaii.

While on his week-long leave, Dad had lunch with his brother Earl and Uncle Earl’s wife, Eleanor. Uncle Earl and Aunt Eleanor had just gotten married in June. They moved into Aunt Eleanor’s homestead, in the 600 block of Boonton Avenue in Boonton. They lived with Aunt Eleanor’s widowed father.

It was a Sunday afternoon that Dad visited Uncle Earl and Aunt Eleanor. A most fateful Sunday. After lunch, Dad and his brother took a walk to the front yard of Uncle Earl’s new home. They stood beneath a maple tree and talked.

Across the street, on Boonton Avenue, a young high school girl sat upon the rock wall of her home, reading a book.

In the dozens of times that Dad told this story, he always said that he asked Uncle Earl who was the girl sitting upon the rock wall. And Uncle Earl simply replied, “she’s one of the Kemmerer girls.” Then Dad was quiet for a moment and he simply said to his brother, “she’s such a pretty girl. I’m going to marry her.”

Fast forward to February of 1943. Dad is at Hickam Airfield. He is assigned the task of fueling up airplanes. He is all so homesick. There is a certain anxiety and fear in the air. For rumors are abounding of another Japanese attack.

It is now Valentine’s Day of 1943. Janet Kemmerer (my

I

Mom) is working an after-school job at the A&P in Boonton. She is working in the Bakery Department. It is close to closing time. Three Valentine’s Day cookies are still on the shelf. They had not been sold. Mom’s boss simply says, “Janet, why don’t you take those Valentine’s Day cookies home with you.” So, Mom does.

Mom gives one Valentine’s Day cookie to her Mom, and one to her Dad. And, the other one she carefully wraps in a box, to send to the Airman at Hickam (being my Dad). Mom had become pen pals with Dad. Aunt Eleanor, knowing of Dad’s homesick blues, gave Dad’s Hickam Airfield address to Mom. Dad always said that Mom’s Valentine’s Day cookie, sealed the deal for him. That the second that he opened Mom’s box and saw the carefully wrapped Valentine’s Day cookie, that this really was the girl he was going to marry.

Fate and Destiny are strange twins. How much of our lives, are totally our of our hands? Now at 70, I look back at all the times my father told the story of his Valentine cookie that Mom sent him. Dad would often laugh about how the cookie came broken in pieces and that the box was a little crushed. Then Dad would say that it was the best Valentine’s Day gift he had ever received.

Was it by Divine decree that those three Valentine cookies were left unsold? And, Mom’s boss, at the A&P, could have easily taken those cookies home for herself. And why three cookies? If there were just two cookies left, Mom would have probably given one to her Mom, and one to her Dad. cont. on page 33

An old photo of my Mom and Dad, taken shortly after Dad received his Honorable Discharge from the United States Army Air Corps.

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A Valentine’s Day... cont. from page 32

I often wonder, what if Mom had not been sitting upon the rock wall, that bordered her front yard, that fateful Sunday afternoon in August of 1942?

And, what if Dad had not visited his brother, Earl, on that very same Sunday af-

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Butler Public Library 1 Ace Road Butler, NJ 07405 973-838-3262

I Remember Mom: Mom’s Last Apple Pie

By Richard Mabey Jr. n late October of 2019, right after Mom, my sister Patti and I had breakfast, Mom announced that she was going to make an apple pie. The day before, we had just visited the Farmer’s Market and bought a big bag of apples. Actually, Mom picked out the sack of apples. She had it in her mind, at the Farmer’s Market, that she was going to make an apple pie.

For Mom, making an apple pie, was a work of art. Just the right amount of sugar. Not too much cinnamon. Peeling the apples, then slicing them up into just the right sizes. And then slicing the slits on the top crust, so they were not too long and not too short. Mom never made just made an apple pie, she created a masterpiece.

From the time I was a little boy, I always enjoyed watching and helping Mom make an apple pie. She would almost always hum the simple hymn, “Jesus Loves Me.” Sometimes Mom would quietly sing the words to this hymn. I remember as a boy, a certain inner peace would come over my heart, as Mom hummed “Jesus Loves Me” as she peeled and sliced the apples.

As long as I can remember, going back to when I was three years old, Mom would tell me stories of her childhood growing up in Boonton, on the Sheep Hill area of Boonton Avenue. It was always a magical time when Mom made an apple pie. If I struck out playing baseball with my buddies, or got the cold shoulder from the little girl who sat next to me in Mrs. Raimo’s fifth grade class, or was struggling through science class, making an apple pie with Mom always healed my inner emotional hurts.

It was while Mom was making her last apple pie, in late October of 2019, that she told me of the time that Dad came to her home, riding his motorcycle. Dad had just come home from serving at Hickam Airfield, during World War Ii. Mom laughed as she peeled the apples, as she told me how upset her father was that Dad had the nerve to drive his motorcycle to take her for a date.

Mom told me how they had planned to go to the diner in Boonton, then go to the State Theater. Dad had brought an extra helmet for Mom to wear. But Grandpa Kemmerer put his foot down and told Dad that he had to watch television with him and that he could eat with the family. Mom laughed as she recalled how her father cont. on page 34

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freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.”

Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.

ESL: English as a Second Language Classes

he Butler Public Library Is Offering ESL Classes on Mondays from 6:30 pm to 7:30pm.

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ternoon? And, what if Aunt Eleanor had not given Dad’s Hickam Airfield address to Mom? At times, it all seems so eerie and haunting. I believe that God is guiding our lives, more than we will ever know.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a

Page 34 • February 2024 • Hometown Life • Like us on www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

I remember ... cont. from page 33

really laid the law down to Dad. “The expression on your father’s face. All he kept saying to my father was, ‘yes, sir,’ as my father made it perfectly clear that that he was not going to allow me to ride on a motorcycle,” Mom recalled as she cut the apples into little wedges.

The next day, Mom had a cardiac incident. My sister called the ambulance. They took Mom off to the hospital. We followed the ambulance. On the eleventh of November, of that year, Mom had surgery to replace her Aortic Valve. Sadly, Mom passed away on the twenty-third of December, a little over a month after her surgery.

With great fondness, I look back upon that day in late October, when Mom made her last apple pie. I am immensely grateful that she told me the humorous

Mom peeling the apples for her apple pie, in late October of 2019.

story of how Dad came to her house on his motorcycle, during the time when they were dating.

None of us have a guarantee for tomorrow. Forgive those who have hurt you. Love one another. Help the poor. Be kind to others. Offer a kind smile to a stranger. Find your true purpose in life. Forget political differences. Love is the key

that unlocks the strains of human relations. For love knows no boundaries.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.”

Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • February 2024 • Page 35

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