Hometown 13 July 24 by My Life Publications..Maljon LLC

African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey Inspires, Educates in Museums and Throughout NJ

by Jeff Garrett

If you’re venturing to the Jersey shore this summer, happen to be around Atlantic City and have a hankering to take in some African-American Culture, then you may want to visit the Noyes Arts Garage at 200 Fairmount Ave.

To celebrate Juneteenth, a night filled with poetry readings from some of the state’s most well-known African-American poets occurred on Wednesday, June 19.

10 well-known poets including Belinda Manning from Atlantic County, Cole Eubanks from Vineland, NJ and from Turiya Abdul-Raheem from Galloway, NJ recited poetry and discussed topics relevant to Juneteeth’s historical significance celebrating when slavery ended in America. Juneteenth was made a federal holiday to be celebrated on June 19 by President Biden in 2021.

While the poetry event on June 19 was memorable there’s a lot more to see and learn about at the Center.

Only 15 years old, the idea for the Center came when Buena Vista resident, Ralph Hunter, decided toshowcase his collection of African-American inspired collectibles from all over in a formal capacity to share with others. The mayor of Buena Vista offered Hunter space where he could showcase his cultural treasures in the mid-2000’s. Hunter, a retired retail worker always had a knack for observing his surroundings and collected things which people left on the card or discarded by any means. He saw significance in these items and just kept collecting.

There are now two locations of African American History – one in Atlantic City and one in Newtonville, located at 661 Jackson Street.

In each location, stories which may be looked upon as flattering or the opposite, unflattering, are told at the museums. The museums hope to shed light on black Americans hard road to freedom, the struggles black American have endured since the Emancipation Proclamation and the continued de-

bate about race relations in modern-day America.

On permanent display at Noyes is an exhibit titled, “Stereotypes: From Little Black Sambo to Aunt Jemima and Beyond.” It recognizes cinematic The Gold Dust Twins, Amos & Andy, Buckwheat — images used widely in advertising and print media to represent black Americans by proxy which influenced the perception of an entire race.

This is critical to today’s youth which did not experience such Media directly. By recognizing it, the museum hopes to ensure that young learners become aware of what their parents, grandparents and those before them had to endure. Its point is to show how negative and wrong such mass marketing was in the hopes that it never occurs again.

Another meaningful exhibit in Atlantic City is titled, “The Northside: The Way We Were,” highlighting the buoyancy of privileged African-American who found success as entertainers in the “Boardwalk Empire” era. The original “Club Harlem” door and sign is displayed too. Two other permanent exhibits titled, “Portraits of a People,” all found pictures of noteworthy African-American found in a crawlspace no less and one display of family furniture from earlier times owned by African-Americans are there for museum-goers to see.

A traveling exhibit sponsored by AAHMSNJ allows communities and schools to learn about African- American history in New Jersey and the rest of America. Exhibits showcasing the protests of organized black American outside Atlantic City’s Convention Hall at the 1964 Democratic National Convention as well as one highlighting the story of baseball-great Jackie Robinson are apart of the traveling exhibit which visits dozens of schools in New Jersey each school year. Admission to the museums are free but donations are strongly suggested. The Museum in Atlantic City is open from Wednesday through Sunday. Several limited-time exhibits and gatherings such as talks and discussions are ongoing and can be found by logging onto www.AAMHSNJ.org.

Dr. Frank Plateroti Announces the Release of His Second Book in Historical Fiction Trilogy New Jersey Author’s New Book Now Available on Amazon

Dr. Frank Plateroti released the second book in the East Clifton Avenue book series, “La Prossima Generazione – The Next Generation.” Simultaneously, he launched an expanded 2024 edition of the first book in the series, “East Clifton Avenue, Origins – from Sicily to America,” which features deeper characterization and an enhanced storyline.

The “East Clifton Avenue” series, a fictional saga inspired by true events, traces the journey of the Buonoforte family who immigrated from Sicily to American in the early 20th century. Like many Italian immigrants, family patriarch Enzo Buonoforte, and his wife, Anna, sought a better life and a brighter future for their eight children. This series follows the Buonofortes as they settle in Clifton, New Jersey, capturing their sacrifices, heartbreaks, and the complex familial dynamics that will shape the family for generations to come.

“’East Clifton Avenue’ is a timeless story for all families and all seasons of life,” said Dr. Frank Plateroti. “It reflects the early chapters of my life growing up with my mother’s family. Interwoven throughout the story are a family’s struggles to adapt to a new country while desperately trying to preserve their cultural traditions – a narrative that will evoke every emotion. I am excited to share the second book of the trilogy with the world – a story so near and dear to my heart.”

Dr. Frank Plateroti, a New Jersey native, holds a Doctorate Degree in Education Research with a concentration in psychology and a Master’s Degree in Communication with a concentration in television and film production. For the past two decades, he has been a distinguished professor in the communication department at William Paterson University, teaching courses in television production, media studies, and intrapersonal and interpersonal communication.

Before his teaching career, Dr. Plateroti worked in public relations and television pro -

duction, forming his own international production company. Additionally, Dr. Plateroti is the author of “Speak No Evil: In Search of Out Self-Esteem, Self-Identity, and Self-Worth,” a culmination of his twenty years of teaching experience. An updated second edition of this book is slated for release later this year. “Speak No Evil” addresses all forms of communication, with a special focus on personal, familial, and romantic relationships. Beyond his literary achievement, Dr. Plateroti is active in award-winning home renovations, maintains real estate and financial investments, and is a recording vocalist. For more information, visit www.drfjpesteem.com.

From Plateroti Communication Publishing

Author Dr. Frank Plateroti

Dr. Frank Plateroti earned his Doctorate Degree in Education Research, with a concentration in psychology. He also earned a Master’s Degree in Communication, with a concentration in television and film production. For over twenty years, Dr. Plateroti had taught in the communication department at William Paterson University. Prior to his teaching, he was an international television producer, writer, and director working with network and cable news companies and formed his own international production company.

Today, Dr. Plateroti further established his writing career by republishing the 2024 updated and expanded first book of his trilogy, East Clifton Avenue, and also the simultaneous launch of Book 2. He is also writing the updated, Second Edition of his communication book, Speak No Evil, for the fall of this year. East Clifton Avenue is a riveting family saga crossing cultures and generations. Nothing is more important to patriarch, Enzo Buonoforte, than family. But when he dies unexpectedly, the family is thrown into chaos. Old jealousies arise, sacrifices must be made, and disappointments ensue. Can the Buonofortes weather the dramatic and heartbreaking aftermath to restore Enzo’s legacy of unconditional love and joy? “Bless the family that stays together.”

2nd Edition

T100 Years Ago This Month

he month of July has been home to many historical events over the years. Here’s a look at some that helped to shape the world in July 1924.

• Full-time airmail service begins on July 1. A fleet of airplanes are used to transport mail day and night, and the time to send mail between New York and San Francisco is 35 hours, a reduction of 50 percent.

• The Caesar salad is created in Mexico on July 4. Italian-born restaurateur Caesar Cardini is inspired to create the dish by Americans crossing the border into Tijuana to legally purchase alcohol from his eatery during the holiday weekend.

• The opening ceremonies of the Summer Olympics are conducted at Colombes Stadium in Paris on July 5. The Organizing Committee decides against inviting Germany for the second straight Olympics.

• English Jew Harold Abrahams wins the 100 meter sprint at the Summer Olympics in Paris on July 7. Abrahams, who was the target of antisemitic prejudice during the Games, is later profiled the 1981 film, “Chariots of Fire.”

• Panama receives diplomatic recognition from Colombia on July 9, more than 20 years after the country seceded from Colombia at the urging of the United States.

• The Kimberly-Clark Corporation files the original trademark application for Kleenex on July 12.

• The legend of “Bigfoot” begins on July 16 when The Oregonian publishes the first nationwide news story about a tall and hair-covered

“apeman.” The creature is not described as “Bigfoot” until 1958.

• The United States Vice Consul to Iran, Robert Imbrie, is beaten to death by an angry mob in Tehran on July 18. Imbrie photographed a well in the city’s bazaar where a miracle was believed to have occurred, and some who assaulted him believed he poisoned the well. Imbrie survives the initial beating and is taken to a hospital, but the mob follows him there and beats him again, leading to his death.

• Herman “Hi” Bell of the St. Louis Cardinals pitches all 18 innings of the St. Louis Cardinals’ doubleheader on July 19. Bell earns the victory in both contests, and remains the last Major League pitcher to pitch all 18 innings of a twinbill on the same day.

• American League umpires are ordered to cut short arguments about balls and strikes in an effort to speed up the pace of play on July 25. The directive, issued by league president Ban Johnson, also prevents players from taking too much time inspecting baseballs for signs of tampering.

• Rebels affiliated with the Brazilian Army quietly withdraw from Sao Paolo on July 28. The rebels are gone for five hours before the government realizes they had quit.

• The prosecution rests in the Leopold and Loeb case on July 30. Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb are subsequently each convicted of the murder of 14-year-old Bobby Franks and sentenced to life imprisonment plus 99 years, though Leopold is released on parole in 1958. Loeb is murdered in a prison shower room in January 1936.

TWhy You Should Play Tennis at the Pacquenac Tennis Club

he Pacquenac Tennis club provides play on 4 red clay courts. Red clay provides a slower surface which adds more enjoyment to each point as it is more difficult to end the point. Medical research has conclusively indicated that tennis players enjoy longer life span than those who do not participate in tennis. This is the result of both cardio activity and the continual mental requirements of tennis.

Our red clay courts are characterized as “soft courts.” The surface has more give and significantly less impact than traditional hard courts. This makes for less wear and tear on the total body with major reduction of stress on the hip and knee joints.

Playing tennis on red clay improves both longevity and quality of life. Tennis is truly the sport for a lifetime.

The Pacquenac Tennis Club has been referred to as the “Jewel of Pompton Plains.” Nestled in a suburban residential area between Manor Avenue and Sherman Road flanked by Newark Pompton Turnpike and The Boulevard, the club is a peaceful and serene location to enjoy a game of tennis.

For 2024 the club is planning for significant improvements and additions to both tennis and social programs.

On the tennis side we are going to improve our offerings to junior members. In addition to the established Junior Tennis Academy we will have Junior clinics running during the summer. A new instructional program will be offered in July to girl high school players. For adults there will be clinics and a “Stroke of the Week” continuing program. Some of these programs are available to nonmembers.

The club has expanded our round robin offerings to provide more opportunities for members to play without having to prearrange a game.

On the social side, new events will include an early season mixer, movie nights and evening meals. These will supplant our annual breakfast, barbecues, and Friendship tournament.

This will be an exciting year for the club and its members.

The club offers a 50% discount on the 2024 membership fee for new members joining after July 31.

Please visit our website Pacquenactennisclub.com for more information. Please contact Mark Kass 201-410-3095 for membership information .

PACQUENAC TENNIS CLUB

4 red clay courts in quiet residential neighborhood

Round robins, Tournaments, clinics, social activities

Girls High School Program

Single and Family memberships For more information visit our website:

REGULAR RATE AFTER JULY 31

For Membership contact Mark Kass 201-410-3095

42 Manor Ave., Pompton Plains

NJ Starz: Bonnie J. Monte Hometown: Madison

By Steve Sears

When asked what is being missed by those who, by choice, don’t attend or favor theatre arts performances, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Artistic Director Emerita, Bonnie J. Monte, said, “They're missing an experience that is not replicable by any other experience. You're missing a kind of in the moment, live chemistry that exists between you and the people on stage that changes from moment to moment. They're missing out on something that actually, what science tells us, keeps people both mentally and physically healthy.” Wisdom noted.

When Monte early in 2023 announced that she would be stepping away from her Artistic Director job of 33 years, those associated in any way with the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey knew it might be just a tip-toe. In fact, Monte, who has directed over 90 plays during her three decades plus with the much-loved organization on the Drew University campus in Madison, is this month back in the director’s chair for The Book of Will, which runs from July 7 – 28

(www.shakespearenj.org/events/detail/book-of-will).

Monte, who currently lives in Morris County but is originally from Stamford, Connecticut, was exposed at a young age to literature and the arts, particularly dance, opera, and theatre, by her parents, Eugene and Marjorie.

“It was a fairly idyllic child,” Monte said. “And the question never was raised as to, whether by being a woman or a female, I would be able or not be able to do whatever I wanted. It was always just the assumption I would decide what I wanted to do in life, I would pursue it, and I would be happy doing it. There was never any limitations or censorship on how or what I should be thinking. My parents were pretty incredible.”

The seed for staging performances was sown early on. Monte said, “I guess it's in my blood. I don't know where I got it from, but I started directing plays. I started putting on shows in the neighborhood. I started grabbing all the kids together and organizing them, and I put on a circus every summer.” She even turned publisher for a period. “I published a family newspaper,” she said fondly. “I was just very

Bonnie J. Monte (credit: Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey) cont. on page 7

much into all of that stuff, even as a little, tiny kid.”

Monte attended and received a B.A. degree in Theatre from Bethany College in Bethany, West Virginia, and while there, she as part of her thesis production directed popular actress, Frances McDormand, in Tennessee William’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.

“I had an extraordinary group of people in the theater program at that time,” Monte said. “I had a wonderful teacher, Dr. David Judy, who was very encouraging, and I directed well over 10 productions just as an undergraduate. I was given a tremendous amount of opportunity to just start cutting my teeth on by actually directing. That was a really good program for me at that time in my life.”

Monte’s next stop was for her graduate degree at The Hartman Conservatory, a two- year conservatory program affiliated with a new regional theater in her hometown. She said, “I was able to live at home, and also managed to get a full scholarship, so that was a very affordable experience for me. And the great thing about it was all of my teachers were from the Yale Drama School program. I basically got the Yale Drama School education from the same teachers at no cost, and in half the time.”

A big key as well was the proximity to New York City. Monte said, “I had a great two years of my conservatory training, and then given all the contacts that I made there, I was able to segue right into New York with a theater job right away. So, I was the assistant to the director of a very big off-Broadway production in New York City, right out of graduate school.”

Once that production was out of rehearsals, Monte remained on as a wardrobe mistress. She said, “I didn't know anything about wardrobe, but I wanted a job. Obviously, I was a young kid in New York just starting out in theater. I learned really quick how to be a wardrobe mistress, and that has forged a lifelong appreciation and more for wardrobe mistresses.”

After toiling at odd jobs like bartending and waitressing, and serving as a play reader for a producer and working at an off-Broadway cabaret, a big break came in 1981. Monte started to work at the Williamstown Theater Festival in Williamstown, Massachusetts as the assistant to the Artistic Director and festival co-founder, Nikos Psacharopoulos. While there, she had the opportunity to work with the legendary Tennessee Williams.

As previously mentioned, Monte had done her thesis production in college with Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, but she had also seen a beautiful production of the same play while in high school. “I became a Tennessee Williams freak,” Monte said regarding the aftermath of that teenage experience, and at the Williamstown Theater Festival, she was the liaison between Williams and a team of writers, herself one of them. “We were putting together an eight-and-ahalf-hour production that was an homage to his entire canon of work, and after that I went to the Manhattan Theatre Club.”

Monte spent just a year as a casting director at the Manhattan Theater Club when she was approached about a theatre needing an Artistic Director. She was interested,

and began the interview process for the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, which at that time was known as the New Jersey Shakespeare Festival.

Monte was hired in October of 1990, but was faced with a daunting set of challenges, one being taking over an organization that was almost $300,000 in debt and had less than $500 in the bank.

“I remember the night before I started. I said to myself, ‘Be careful what you wish for,’” Monte said. “But I was pretty excited. I was kind of anxious to ‘fix’ it. I must have some kind of inner mechanism that makes me want to fix things. The institution was in trouble, and everywhere I looked, I saw solutions to fixing things that had not happened or that needed to happen. It was very challenging, but I had a great partner at the time, Mike Stotts. He was my Managing Director, and he is now the Managing Director of Paper Mill Playhouse. He and I, along with a couple of other people, truly kind of reinvented and reinvigorated the institution within a year. For the most part, we just dove in and started fixing things.”

One of those things was the organization’s suffering financial state, where a capital campaign was begun and raised almost eight million dollars. Using the funding, from 1996 to 1998 there was the renovation and expansion of the F.M Kirby Theater, one of two locations where Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey productions are staged (the other is the Outdoor Stage, a summer performance venue at nearby Saint Elizabeth University), and a second component was expanding the mission of the institution, so that

cont. from page 6 cont. on page 10

ALL ABOUT PETS

What to Know About Sharing a Bed with Pets

Pets provide companionship for thousands of people around the world, so it is understandable that pet owners want to be around their companion animals as much as possible - with many even welcoming them into their beds.

According to PetMd, an online animal healthcare resource, around 80 percent of pet owners allow pets to share beds with human family members. Data from the American Pet Products Association has found at least half of all pet parents allow pets to sleep with them every night. Whether this is safe, healthy, or wise is a matter of debate. There are pros and cons to sharing a bed with pets. Understanding those pros and cons can help pet owners make more informed decisions.

Pro: Get into a relaxed state. Companion animals can help relieve stress, which may translate into better sleep for their owners. Some people find that the rhythmic breathing of dogs or cats can help lull them to sleep.

Con: Possible transmission of illness or zoonotic agents. Snuggling so close to a pet may put people at risk of acquiring illnesses that are transmitted from animal to human. In the past, MRSA skin infections and H1N1 influenza have been transferred from pets to people.

Pro: Pets are warm. If the goal is to get cozy under the covers, animals can provide a little extra warmth, as their body temperatures run a few degrees warmer than their

owners’.

Con: An extra body in bed can disturb sleep. Just as individuals may have trouble with a spouse or a child being in the bed next to them, pets can bring about the same disturbances. In a study from the Mayo Clinic Sleep Disorders Center, 53% of pet owners surveyed said their pets disturbed their sleep in some way each night. Dogs that snore and cats that chase “prey” around the room can disturb their owners’ sleep.

Pro: A deeper connection forms between pet and owner. Many pets like to be around their owners because it gives them reassurance and comfort that they are loved. Animals that were rescued or are anxiety prone may be especially comforted by snuggling in bed with their owners.

Happy pets often make for happy owners.

Con: It may cause behavioral problems. Dogs in particular may mistake sleeping in their owners’ beds as a sign of dominance. Some veterinarians suggest puppies that are more prone to issues with aggression may fully develop these behaviors if allowed to sleep with humans. At the very least, it is advisable to wait until dogs are trained and exhibiting good behavior for extended periods of time before allowing them to sleep in their owners’ beds.

Pro: It’s a sign of trust. According to Victoria Stilwell, an internationally renowned dog trainer, dogs only sleep with the people or dogs they trust. Therefore, dogs who like sleeping with their owners are exhibiting trust and recognizing the same from their owners.

Whether or not to allow dogs or cats to share personal spaces like beds, is a decision pet owners have to make. It should be based on safety, comfort, and mutual agreement with any other bed partners.

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.

Support a Local Author

Zachary Slater is a resident of Pompton Lakes graduating from PLHS in 2021 and is currently attending college as a marketing major with a minor in creative writing. Zachary wrote the book Hero’s Heart: A Tale of Love and Deception which is now available on Amazon under the books section in paperback and digital formats. Zachary is working on a second book called Knights and Shadows, a sequel to the first book. Zachary is an avid enjoyer of video games where choices impact the game that you play and has taken inspiration from them such as The Witcher, Dragon Age, and Mass Effect. After surviving a prison escape, Frederick Smith has no recollection of who he is or why he was in prison and must undergo trials and tribulations to rediscover his identity. The only thing that he can remember vaguely is a woman with red hair. Was she his enemy who got him thrown in prison in the first place or was she his lover? Only time will tell. Along the way, Frederick is joined by a former knight and a battle-hardened soldier but are his new friends telling him everything or are they hiding secrets? Will Frederick be able to recover his memory before a sinister plot overtakes his beloved Anglia or will he remain in the dark? And who is the Nightingale?

If you would like to meet with the author and get a signed copy, he works with his family at Family Carpets in Riverdale on 42 NJ-23. Call 973-835-0988 to schedule a time to meet with him and get your in-person copy

HERO’S HEART:

A Tale of Love and Deception

A steel and sorcery adventure novel filled with mystery, deception, and a tale of unbreakable love. Filled with memorable characters and gripping quests.

cont. from page 7

there would be an equal focus on education. The Florham Park-located Kean Theatre Factory, which functions as a major support facility for the entire organization with created education spaces, was built and eventually unveiled in 2012.

For Monte, who has an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees from both Drew University and Saint Elizabeth University, 2024 has been a transition year as she hands the reins over to current Artistic Director, Brian Crowe. However, her eyes are indeed on the future while she reflects on her tenure.

Monte said of the on-stage product and education, “We brought classics to life that nobody had ever heard of - they were buried treasures, and we trained generation after generation after generation, and continue to do so. I think the thing I'm most proud of is that we had and we very quickly became one of the best teaching theaters in America, and one of the best classical theaters in America, and that the quality of work was always world class.” NJStarz...

like a craft fair everyday Handmade gifts from over 40 Vendors Quilts, Crocheted items, Jewelry, Wreaths, Chocolates and much more Fri. 2pm-8pm | Sat. & Sun. 10am-6pm 26 Boonton Ave |

Hold Dear Your Purpose to Serve God

By Richard Mabey Jr.

Each and every one of us, holds a unique person. A calling to serve God in our own way, with our own talents, our own abilities. All service to God is sacred. The man who cleans the church is just as important as the famous television evangelist. Each job, in service to God, is of immense importance.

Often times we are held back by the unkind words spoken to us by someone to whom we looked up to and greatly admired. When I was 14 and in my freshman year at Boonton High School, I had an English teacher to whom I greatly admired. I had written a story about the bond of brotherhood that flowed between my paternal grandfather, Watson Mabey, and his brother, Earl Mabey. I wrote about how devastated Grandpa was, when he got the news that his brother was killed in action, during the First World War.

Well, Mrs. Adams, gave me a C- on my essay. Then she wrote at the end of my story, “emotionally sloppy!” For a long time, the C- grade and those two words that Mrs. Adams wrote at the end of my story, devastated me. I am immensely grateful to my father and to Mr. Marino, Editor-in-Chief of the old Lincoln Park Herald, who convinced me that Mrs. Adams didn’t know what she was talking about, that I was, in fact, a good writer.

Maybe you’ve had a Mrs. Adams in your life. Someone to whom you greatly admired, respected and thought highly of, who shot you down with unkind words. You must erase that memory from your heart and mind. You must come to know that you are on this earth for a purpose. And, you can never afford to allow anyone to ambush you.

If you’re not sure about what your true purpose in life is. Pray about it. Pray, pray and pray for God to show you what your true purpose in this life is.

When you do find your true purpose, your calling unto Heaven, pour forth all your heart, mind and soul into fulfilling that purpose. See yourself as a soldier going into battle. Hold that high degree of focus, energy, mental stamina, and willingness to roll up your sleeves, to fulfill your true purpose to serve God.

Do not swerve from your true calling. Do not allow other people to distract you. Let your true purpose to serve God, burn brightly in your heart. See yourself as a lion walking the jungle, being fearless, courageous and bold. Be willing to work hard. Then work even harder to fulfill your purpose to God.

Never, never, never ever give up. Never surrender. Place these words on your desk, on your bathroom mirror, at your place at your kitchen table, “FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION!” Never give up! Never, ever give up! Never, never, never give up your dreams!

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@gmail.com.

Yours truly, from the glory days at the old ad agency.

Burgers, brats, steak, chicken, pork chops and all the flavors of fresh meat get all the love on the grill, but a well-rounded meal calls for sides and veggies.

Before you plan your next backyard barbecue, incorporate tasty vegetables - peppers, asparagus, onions, tomatoes, zucchini and more - for an all-out blitz of fresh-grilled flavor. Consider these simple steps to properly grill your crispy veggies:

1. Light the grill. Step one, of course, is to prep a hot grill. For the best cooking experience, you'll want medium-high heat or even high heat for quick, direct grilling. By lighting the grill ahead of veggie prep, you'll allow plenty of heating time to complete your other tasks.

2. Prepare vegetables. Depending on what you plan to cook, there'll likely be some preparation to undertake, such as cutting off stems and blemishes or removing pits and seeds. In addition to cleaning up your ingredients, you may want to chop, dice or slice based on the recipe.

3. Coat vegetables with olive oil. Drizzling just a small amount of olive oil over your vegetables and tossing to coat adds a couple benefits. First, it helps the outer layer crisp rather than dry out, plus it aids in seasonings - like salt and pepper - sticking to the vegetable instead of falling off while on the grill or in a pan.

4. Consider using foil packets or skewers. If char marks aren't your thing, tossing chopped or diced veggies into a

5 Steps to Grill Vegetables

bles and preparation methods call for different cook times, but 5-10 minutes over direct heat generally gets the job done. The smaller you chunk, chop, slice or dice, the less time it'll take.

Find more grilling tips at Culinary.net

5. Pay attention to grill times. Different types of vegeta-

Source: Culinary.net

foil packet before hitting the grill steams them for a bit of a softer texture. Alternately, wooden skewers soaked in water (to prevent burning) can help keep smaller chunks of veggies from slipping through the grill grates while still achieving a crispy exterior.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Asizzling steak is a surefire sound of summer, and the flavors achieved from one that's perfectly grilled are hard to match.

Before you fire up your grill, consider these five basics for cooking a chef-worthy steak:

Prepare Your Cut

Taste preferences (and prices) may differ among sirloins, ribeyes, T-bones and more, but the way you prepare steaks likely won't change much from cut to cut. You'll want to trim the thickness down to 1/2-1 inch for proper cooking, and setting the meat out ahead of time allows it to warm to

5 Basic Steps for Sizzling Steak

room temperature before hitting the grill. Placing a refrigerator-cool slab on hot grates works against you in two ways: first, the cold meat instantly chills your previously warm grill, and second, the inner portion of the steak will take longer to grill.

Add Some Salt

Feel free to add any spices that you prefer, but remember a good steak typically doesn't require fancy seasoning - a pinch of salt works just fine. Add your salt anywhere between 30 minutes to a few hours before grilling time to help retain moisture and improve flavor.

Aim for High Heat

Grilling a steak correct-

ly actually isn't just about maintaining a sweltering flame. A two-zone fire is usually the way to go - one side of the grill should be hot (using direct heat) with the other side not quite as warm (indirect heat). This allows you to create a sear over direct heat before finishing cooking through - without burning - over indirect heat.

Sear and Slide

Speaking of searing: Cooking your steak over direct heat 1-2 minutes on

each side is normally about right for creating a proper sear. At this point, depending on the thickness of your steak, you'll want to check for doneness. If it's not quite to the temperature you're looking to achieve, simply slide it over to the indirect heat for a finishing touch.

Keep in mind these general guidelines for doneness: 120-125 F is rare, 130-135 F is medium-rare, 140-145 F is medium, 150155 F is medium-well and

160-175 F is well done.

Let Rest

Finally, as hungry as you may be at this point, resting steaks is an important last step before diving in. Giving your steaks 5-10 minutes (foil or no foil) allows flavors to redistribute and moisture to be retained in the meat.

Find more cooking tips and recipes at Culinary.net.

Source: Culinary.net

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Grilled Banana Pound Cake Kabobs

(Family Features) Summertime means a lot of grilling. So why not try this yummy grilled dessert alongside your favorite grilled entrée?

Find more grilling recipes at Culinary.net.

Grilled Banana Pound Cake Kabobs

1 loaf (10 ¾ ounces) frozen pound cake, thawed and cubed

2 large bananas, cut into 1-inch slices

1/4 cup butter, melted

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Toppings of your choice

Alternately thread cake and bananas on metal skewers or soaked wooden skewers.

In small bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract and cinnamon. Brush mixture over kabobs.

Place kabobs on greased grill rack. Grill kabobs over medium heat, turning once.

Serve with ice cream topped with your favorite dessert topping.

By Henry M. Holden

The Great Swamp of New Jersey is nestled within a 55-square mile natural basin and is the remnant of the bottom of the once-mighty Glacial Lake Passaic that around 15,000 to 11,000 years ago stretched into what is in Morris County, in northern New Jersey. The lake was formed by the melting waters of the retreating Wisconsin Glacier at the end of the last Ice Age.

The glacier had pushed a moraine ahead of its advance, a combination of soil and rocks that blocked the existing outlet for the waters that drained into the area. As the retreating glacier melted, the waters rose to create the lake before a new outlet had began to allow the water to drain at a much higher elevation.

Millions of years ago, the continent of Africa collided violently with North America, pushing up great mountains to the north and west. Erosion has since worn them down to size. When Africa broke away, hot molten rock flowed up from the earth’s interior, creating the Watchung Mountains to the south and east. Again, erosion has taken its toll.

About 18,000 years ago, the Wisconsin Glacier began to cease its southerly motion and melt, leaving behind a great pile of rock and soil along a line from Chatham to Morristown.

The retreating Wisconsin Glacier left the New Jersey wetlands in its wake some 11,000 years ago. As the last parts of the glacier receded, it formed the basin of the Great Swamp. Blocked by the Watchung Mountains, the glacier left

New Jersey’s Great Swamp War

behind another great pile of earth and rocks to the west of the Great Swamp basin. Today, that pile is known as Basking Ridge. Today, the wilderness area accounts for the eastern half of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, which serves as a resting and nesting area for over 250 migratory birds. With miscellaneous flora, including cattail marshes, wet grasslands and forests, the area is home to a number of species outside of migratory birds, including rare bog turtles. Wood turtles, blue-spotted salamanders, mice, skunks, raccoons, coyotes and deer also call the Great Swamp home.

It is a natural oasis in an area that is mostly suburban, making the refuge an outstanding area for migrating waterfowl to stop, rest and feed on their migration.

Morris County, among the fastest growing coun-

ties in the New Jersey, is nestled amid rolling hills, broad valleys and glittering lakes. It is also approximately 30 miles northwest of New York City, and that made it vulnerable to plunder by land/airport developers.

The swamp war began in 1959, when the powerful Port of New York and New Jersey Authority announced plans to construct a huge 10,000 acre "jetport" 26 miles west of New York City in a little-known place called the Great Swamp. In the name of progress, entire towns would be obliterated, the aquifer and wildlife destroyed, and a way-of-life was threatened for thousands of people if this happened.

he Jersey Jetport Site Association,(JJSA) was the first to organize in opposition. Their efforts to prevent the development of an airport in the swamp became public knowledge

on December 3, 1959, when four of its members (Kafi Benz, Joan Kelly, Esty Weiss, and Betty White) were expelled from a meeting at the Essex House in Newark that had been organized to generate support for its construction.

The events that followed became one of the more defining environmental confrontations of its time - a grassroots movement that started in a local high school and a decade later required the actions of a President and an Act of Congress to stop the project. It also led to the creation of a national treasure, a wildlife refuge, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. The historic battle of the Morris County residents against the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey ended on Sept. 30, 1968, with the designation of the Great Swamp as a National Wilderness Area. It was one of the first sieges to pit a

Authority of New York and New Jersey officials attemped to turn the Great Swamp into a major regional airport to supplement Newark Airport's ability to accommodate large jet aircraft.

The JJSA activity was followed closely by an influential sister organization) the North American Wildlife Foundation established its specially designated, Great Swamp Committee, in 1960. Between the two organizations and, in less than a year, enough property in the core of the swamp was quickly purchased, assembled, and donated to the federal government to qualify for perpetual protection as a National Wildlife Refuge.

grass-roots effort against a powerful government agency — and have victory go to the local residents.

“We applaud the disciplined, tough-minded action by many voluntary citizens’ groups,” Stewart L. Udall, Secretary of the Interior, said in 1969, midway through the fray. “They were determined that a unique outdoor place did not have to be sacrificed to the demands of development.”

During the siege that lasted nine years, more than 14,600 individuals contributed time or money to the battle, conservationists spent $1,500,000 and 462 organizations from 29 states pledged support to the anti-jetport forces.

The land that would become the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge was established by an Act of Congress on November 3, 1969, after a multi-year legal battle that pitted local residents against Port

As the Congressional Representative from Arizona, Stewart Udall immediately championed the efforts of these residents, whom he described as having mounted the greatest effort ever made by residents in America to protect a natural habitat, and later, on May 29, 1964, as the Secretary of the Interior, he oversaw its dedication as a refuge. The initial donation was 2,600 acres which assured its protection as a refuge and the acquisition of additional lands continued. In 1960, Congressional Representative Peter Frelinghuysen, Jr., whose estate was in the area targeted for development also joined the effort.

Over the years, more land has been added. Its eastern half (3,660 acres) was designated as a wilderness area by Congress in 1968, making it the first wilderness area within the Fish and Wilderness system by Congress.

An Option to Deduct Summer Activity Expenses

he kids are out of school, which means now is a great time to review the rules to deduct eligible summer activities on your tax return. Tax deductible related daycare expenses through the use of the Child and Dependent Care Credit can be a great opportunity to reduce your child care expenses this summer. Here is what you need to know. What is deductible?

The credit equals 20% to 35% of qualified unreimbursed expenses with a maximum amount of expenses being $3,000 for one person (maximum credit of $1,050) and $6,000 for two or more qualifying persons (maximum credit of $2,100). How it works

To receive the credit you must:

• have a dependent under the age of 13 or have a spouse or dependent who is physically or mentally unable to care for themselves

• have earned income (wages) to support the dependent

• have qualified expenses (that allow for care while you work or look for work)

• financially support and maintain a home for the dependent

• if married, both you and your spouse must be working or looking for work

Some summertime tips

1. Daycare expenses are the most common qualifying expense for the Dependent Care Credit.

2. In-home daycare during the summer months also qualifies. Your sitter cannot be a dependent, a spouse, or someone under the age of 19.

3. Day camps qualify for the credit.

4. OVERNIGHT camps and summer school/tutoring do NOT qualify.

5. Track the mileage of transportation to and from any qualified activity. For instance, if your daycare provider takes the kids on a field trip, the mileage would be part of the qualified activity.

6. Even cooking and housekeeping expenses can count if at least partly done for the protection and safety of a qualifying person.

7. Placing your child in a day camp while one of you volunteers at a charity would not work in determining qualified dependent care expenses.

Remember to get the provider’s name, address, and Social Security number/Tax ID number. Also retain any receipts and canceled checks to support your proof of payment. This information will be required when you fill out your tax return.

Shah & Sokoloff , CPA’s, is a year round full service CPA firm providing a wide range of Accounting and Tax services to both Small Business and Individual Clients. We are QuickBooks Certified Pro Advisors and provide new business set up, training and support. Our office is located at 166 Main St. Lincoln Park, NJ 07035. Our website is www.cpanewjersey. com and email is rps@cpanewjersey.com. To contact us by phone please call 973-6331001.

Staying Safe During Summer Vacations

5 tips for traveling with health conditions

From staycations and road trips to Caribbean getaways and coastal cruises, summertime offers the chance to escape and unwind with a much needed (and deserved) vacation.

However, for people living with health conditions like heart disease or stroke, leaving home can pose special challenges.

As travel season takes shape, the experts at the American Heart Association - celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service as the world's leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all - recommends a few important tips to ease on-the-go woes.

"As we look forward to summer, many people will be traveling to spend treasured time with family and friends, or maybe just to enjoy some relaxation on the beach," said Gladys Velarde, M.D., FAHA, professor of medicine and national volunteer with the American Heart Association. "It's not always that simple for people who have chronic health conditions that require multiple medications or special medical equipment. There are also considerations for how to maintain your health and not put yourself at increased risk."

Velarde said that doesn't mean travel is off limits if you have a chronic health condition. A little planning and preparation can reduce stress and prepare you for your next big adventure.

Check In with Your Health Care Provider

Speak with your primary care physician or specialist about your travel plans and any special considerations related to your health. He or she can offer guidance on any restrictions or precautions you should keep in mind. Carry a list of all medications, including dosages and pharmacy information. Also consider carrying a copy of key medical records and a list of phone numbers, including your doctors and emergency contacts.

Manage Your Medications

Ensure medications are clearly labeled and that you've packed enough to last the entire trip. If you're traveling across time zones, enlist your health care provider to help adjust medication schedules. Some medications require refrigeration; research how to pack them appropriately for airport security and make sure you'll have a refrigerator in your lodging.

cont. on page 20

Plan for Transportation

Whether you're traveling by plane, bus, train, cruise ship or other means, it's paramount to plan ahead for special medical equipment. For example, if you use a wheelchair, walker or other assistance for getting around, you may need to check in with the travel company to find out how to properly transport your devices.

Master the Airport

During this especially busy travel season, planning ahead can make the airport experience easier. If you have a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, you may need to go through a special security screening. Walking through a crowded terminal can take its toll, so consider requesting a wheelchair or courtesy cart to get to your gate when booking your ticket.

Long flights may increase your risk for blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis and

pulmonary embolism. Consider wearing compression socks and walk around the cabin while it's safe and allowed to help improve your circulation.

Know the Signs

While it's always important to know the signs of heart attack, stroke or cardiac arrest, it's particularly critical while away from home. If you or someone you're with experience symptoms, call 911. Many airports even offer kiosks where you can learn Hands-Only CPR while waiting for your flight.

"Every individual's condition is unique, and you'll want to tailor your travel plans to your specific needs," Velarde said. "By taking a little time now to plan and prepare, your vacation can be just what the doctor ordered to help you unwind and recharge."

Learn more about healthy traveling at Heart.org.

Source: American Heart Association

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Theater Review

"Just Another Day" at Theater 555 was written by Dan Lauria and directed by off Broadway guru, Eric Krebs. The play begins with projections of old stars of yesteryear to the song "No Strings Attached". When the two actors take the stage, Dan Lauria and Patty McCormack seem confused... at-least Dan (Man) does. McCormack (Woman) seems refined in her salmon colored sun dress. Often appalled at Lauria's language, she seems distant to his behavior.

In this one hour and forty-five minute play, the two have several things in common... they both share a love for old movies, the New York Times Sunday cross word puzzle. Later we would find out that their love of art is due to McCormack being a writer and Lauria being a painter (he is not sure if he was a house painter or a canvass painter).

In Eric Krebs direction, the audience gets good banter, in Lauria's writing we get jokes that for the most part land pretty well. Although his body of work is fair, the way the play is laid out is fun, comfortable and easy to watch as these two really good actors talk about things that are relevant as well as insane. The insanity part comes to the forefront as in time we realize that they are both in a sanatorium. As time goes on the audience accepts their dementia and Lauria is deft in how the characters put forth the dialogue all throughout the play; insanity brought to sanity.

The costumes are regal on McCormack (Bettina Bierly); her salmon outfit is beautiful, even though it is subdued, In the second act he off white knit suit is classy, like her. In Lauria, he is dressed like a mans-man; a guy who was from Brooklyn, N.Y., a former Marine. In Andy Evan Cohen's sound, the bell that regulates the behavior of the two is front and center. The subtle echo effects too add to this play in that he gives it a bit of mystery in these two actors. It is the lighting that falters a bit here; Joan Racho-Jansen does not hit the characters the way it should have. The audience often cannot pick up the entire body of the characters , especially at the head level. This has the audience having difficulty seeing the actors up close and therefore we never get the personal feeling of the two when they are at their most deep in their feelings about life. The characters are older and they have a lot to say; even if it is silly what they talk about, the two are still interesting to listen to. Not being able to see them weakened the dialogue.

In this unique play, "Just Another Day" stay's focused on the characters life. It gently gives us the inner thoughts of the two, it also shows us how corky they have become in a very playful way. Are past movies escapism? Where the movies that big a part of their lives. Is their "hit list" something that they thought about when they were sane? The play skillfully omits a lot of questions that the audience may have. This is the type of play that can keep you thinking about it for a long time. We also have to ask... what were these people really like in their younger years?

In the one set, a comfortable park- type setting, the show glides through the dialogue by two actors who wow the audience with their style and verve.

Summer is the time to get outside and remember the importance of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed as a family. Encouraging children at an early age to participate in outdoor exploration can help foster lifelong skills.

For example, research published in the "International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health" found associations between nature exposure and improved cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity and sleep. What's more, kids who play and take part in outdoor adventures learn skills like problem solving, according to the American Academy of Pediatricians.

However, for many families with little ones, this summer might be their first foray into activities like exploring

3 Tips for Fueling Summer Adventures

playgrounds or enjoying backyard campouts.

Opportunities to be more active outdoors bring obvious benefits. With that in mind, it's important that families embark on these activities with the proper fuel.

All the energy kids burn playing outdoors and taking on new adventures can work up an appetite, making it an opportune time to introduce new foods. It might even be a little one's first time trying seasonal fruits and veggies that can help nourish family playtime.

"A healthy curiosity and freedom to explore are essential ingredients for successful adventures, but fueling all of that fun is equally important," said Sarah Smith-Simpson, PhD, principal food scientist at Gerber. "Kids need well-balanced nutrition from a variety of sources to fuel their sum-

mertime play."

Ensure your family is ready to make memories and enjoy the exciting adventures ahead with these tips from Smith-Simpson: Get Colorful with Fruits and Veggies

Serving a rainbow of colors with an assortment of fruits and veggies means nutrient-rich snacks that are equal parts flavorful and fun. One of the best parts about fruits is they're easily transportable to bring along for warm days exploring a nearby park. They're perfect for a quick snack on the go - just cut them according to your child's age and developmental stage to avoid hazards like choking then pack them in a small cooler to keep from spoiling. For preschool-age children, a variety of fresh produce can help them practice color recognition while enjoying fa-

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock vorite flavors. Stocking your refrigerator and pantry with apples, oranges, bananas, green and purple grapes, blueberries, blackberries and more allows children to explore a world of nutrition with bright colors that catch their attention.

Pack Plenty and a Variety of Snacks

It's the time of year when infants and young children need extra fuel for playtime, making it important for parents to offer a variety of nutritious foods and flavors.

A key part of inspiring ex-

ploration in young children begins with nutrient-rich snacks that help fuel their adventures. Introducing diverse foods can help expand palates and provides a wide range of nutrients to support the entire family. cont. on page 25

Forgiveness Is The Key To Heaven’s Door

By Richard Mabey Jr.

Since September of last year, I have been on a most interesting and enduring path, in search of some degree of healing for my heart condition. It was only last month, when I began going to the University of Florida Medical Center (Shands) that I was definitively diagnosed, very specifically, with a heart disease known as Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Many Cardiologists call it “the silent killer” because it is so very difficult to pinpoint into a defined diagnosis.

Basically one in 500 people get Apical HCM. It’s a relatively rare heart disease. In the past couple of weeks, I have been thinking more and more about my relationship with God, getting right with God and also what I need to do to become a more righteous person. One single, solitary word, has kept popping up onto the inner screen of my mind. And, that word is FORGIVE.

Not to just give superficial forgiveness to those people who did me wrong. But rather, to deeply forgive them, from the deepest fibers of my heart and the innermost sinew of the marrow of my bones. To simply burn out any ill feelings that I may have been holding onto, on a conscious or even subconscious level, toward people who have hurt me.

I thought of three or four teachers, from grade school and high school, who mocked my last name. Their sneers, the pathetic joy that they seemed to swim in, by ridiculing a sensitive child. I thought of my gym teacher, from the eighth grade who mocked me for not being able to climb the rope all the way to the top. I thought of cruel supervisors and gossiping coworkers. And on and on the list unrolled.

And then, about a week ago, I prayed and prayed and prayed for God to burn out the grievances that I was harboring against these people. As I prayed at my desk, with my eyes closed, I felt the presence of Jesus, standing over my right shoulder. I felt the hand of Christ, gently touch my right shoulder. I felt a huge burden being lift from my heart center. A calm, serene, peaceful feeling then filled the chambers of my heart.

Here’s the whole thing in nutshell. God loves you more than you will ever know. It is a love that is deeper than the beautiful blue sea and wider than the Atlantic Ocean. God’s love knows no limitations. It is boundless.

God’s immense love will forgive us for anything and everything that we have done, consciously or unconsciously, that have hurt another person. But there’s one caveat. In turn, we need to forgive those who have done us wrong. Forgiveness is the key to the Kingdom of Heaven. cont. on page 25

Yours truly, at home, sitting at the very couch upon which I have written dozens of stories and articles, while watching Gunsmoke and Bonanza.

Forgiveness...

cont. from page 24

This is deadly serious. This is not a joke. Pray for God to help you burn out the bad feelings that you may be holding toward someone who has hurt you in the past. In prayer, ask God to burn out those grievances to a charcoal crisp and let the wind of the Divine Spirit blow away the charred fibers.

To truly forgive someone, may well be the hardest thing you will ever do. But it will give you the peace that passeth all understanding. Truly, forgiveness is the sacred key to Heaven’s Gate.

3 Tips...

cont. from page 23

When introducing foods into a child's diet, consistency is key. Experts say babies may need to try a new food up to 10 times before they like it. With a variety of Clean Label Project-certified snacks, Gerber offers solutions you can incorporate into little ones' diets and bring along for family fun. Some snacks to consider for ages 12 months and over are toddler pouches in Apple Mango Strawberry and Banana Blueberry. For babies in the crawling stage, consider Lil' Crunchies Mild Cheddar snacks.

Hydrate on the Go

Avoid dehydration by ensuring you're bringing enough water for the entire family on all your summertime trips, whether they're around the block or across the country. Use refillable bottles for mom and dad, and for little ones, be sure to pack non-spill sippy cups for toddlers that help avoid messes. Fill a larger container with clean water from home you can use to refill everyone's cups, bottles and canteens to stay hydrated throughout the day. Find more family-friendly resources, including recipe ideas, meal planning tips and guidance on age-appropriate food introductions, at gerber.com/parenttalk.

Source: Gerber

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 Children’s Room at the Butler Library

Please call the Butler Library at: 973-838-3262 to sign up.

Friday, July 12, 2024: Under the Boardwalk (2023) PG 1 hour 23 minutes

Friday, August 2, 2024: TBA

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 by calling the Butler Library at: 973-838-

Children’s Programs at Butler Library

3262. 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.

Summer Reading July 15 – July 19 Return your Reading Passport and completed Worksheet #3 to be eligible to win one of the larger prizes in the display case.

July 22 – July 26 Return your Reading Passport and completed Worksheet #4 to be eligible to win one of the larger prizes in the display case.

July 29 – August 2 Return your Reading Passport and completed Worksheet #5 to be eligible to win one of the larger prizes in the display case.

*Final Week to complete all of the worksheets and Summer Reading Passport:

August 5 – 9.

*All winners will be called after the program is over. Enjoy reading this summer and join us for the summer reading programs.

Story Time

Tuesdays at 10:30am

July 9 – August 20

For ages 3 – 5 yrs.

Story time offers 30-minute sessions with a story and other fun activities. Parents must remain in the Library.

Toddler Time

Thursdays at 10:30am

July 11 – August 22

For ages 2 – 3 yrs. Register on Google Forms or visit the Library to sign up.

Toddler time offers a 30-minute session with a story and a small craft for

children and caretakers. Rainy Day Craft.Rainy Day Crafts

When: Month of July & August. Drop in any rainy day in July and August and complete a craft in the library.

Time: 11:00 – 1:00 on rainy days.

Ages: 3 – 8 yrs. The library is closed on Saturdays throughout the summer.

Ceramic Surprise

When: Monday, July 15 Register on Google Forms or visit the Library to sign up.

Time: 11:00 – 11:45 am

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 regis-

tered 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.

Shark BINGO for SHARK WEEK

When: Monday, July 22

Time: 4:00 – 4:30 pm

Ages: 5 – 10 years

Come join Ms. Arlene for an afternoon of fun and play Shark BINGO. Prizes awarded. Please register 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.

Do You Like Lemonade?

When: Monday, July 22

Time: 6:00 – 6:45 pm

Ages: 5 – 10 Years

Learn how to make lemonade with Ms. Arlene. Come join us, learn how to use a lemon squeezer and measure ingredients for lemonade. All supplies are provided by the library. Class limited to 15 children .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.

Pillow Craft: Caregivers May Join in and Help Tie Knots

When: Monday, July 29

Time: 4:00 – 5:00 PM

Ages: 8 – 10

cont. on page 27

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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

Children’s Program...

Choose from an array of pillows and make a selection: A Grinch, Yeti, blue heart, red heart, or a smiley face. First come, first choice. Children should be able to tie a double knot in order to attend or a parent must accompany the child to help tie knots. 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.

Indoor KIDS LEARN TO RIDE at St. Anthony’s Church Gymnasium (air conditioned)

Chainsaw Sharpening Service

Adult Programs at Butler Library

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 Children’s Room at the Butler Library

Please call the Butler Library at: 973-838-3262 to sign up.

Friday, July 12, 2024: Under the Boardwalk (2023) PG 1 hour 23 minutes Friday, August 2, 2024: TBA

Adventure Begins at Your Library Adult Summer Library Program

Adult Program...

cont. from page 28

Coloring Contest and Raffle

Wednesday, June 26 – Friday, August 9, 2024

Come to the Butler Library to pick up the coloring page and color it with your colored pencils. Return your colored picture to the Circulation Desk anytime between 6/26 – 8/9/24, to be entered into a raffle for a $10 Gift Card to Target. Completed coloring pictures will be displayed in the library. All completed coloring pictures must be returned by Friday, August 9, 2024.

Adult Craft: Paint a Ceramic Vase

Wednesday, July 24, 2024 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Join us for this craft and paint a ceramic vase at Butler Library. All paint supplies will be provided for this program. This free program is limited to 12 adults. Registration is required, please

call the Butler Library at 973-838-3262, to sign up.

Conquer Clutter Workshop In-Person at Butler Public Library

Wednesday, August 7, 2024 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Presented by Linda Anders, Professional Organizer

Have you wasted time looking for important papers? Do you have “important papers” such as receipts, old income tax information, bank statements, and have no clue how long you should keep them? Perhaps you have items you no longer want but don’t want to throw them away and have no idea where you could donate them? Maybe you are overwhelmed by all the papers that come home with your kids from school? Find the answers to these questions and more. This program focuses on eliminating paper piles, organiz-

ing important papers and finding unused space.

Register for this FREE program by calling the Butler Library at: 1-973-838-3262 or, for more info: www.butlerlibrary.org. Butler Public Library 1 Ace Road, Butler, NJ 07405

Questions about the program? Call Linda at: 1-973838-8298 or email: coc. enterprises@yahoo.com or online at: www.LindaAnders.com.

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

More information on our website: www.butlerlibrary.org