Hometown z12 April 2024

The IAANWJ: Keeping Irish Culture Alive

by,

Elsie Walker

This year, the Irish American Association of North West Jersey (IAANWJ) marks its 50 th anniversary. “To celebrate our heritage, enjoy it, and share with the rest of the world, “said Jack Regan of West Milford when asked about the mission of the association. Located in Rockaway, the association offers classes for young and old and events for those who want to learn more about the Irish culture and have fun. A person doesn’t have to be Irish to join and members come from all over the state. Recently, Regan and Maureen Murphy Quinn, of Succasunna talked about the organization and gave a peek at its 50 th anniversary celebration later in the year.

As noted on its website ( https://www.iaanwj.com), the association came about as a result of so many Irish coming into the northwest New Jersey area as well as people of that decent already living here. They wanted to preserve the culture while also bringing awareness of the Irish contribution to America. The association was founded in 1974 and first met at St. Mary’s School in Wharton. In 1977, the association bought the Mt Pleasant School on Richard Mine Road in Rockaway Township to be its clubhouse.

Regan, who is the Seargent at Arms of the association and a 25- year member, shared some of the various educational offerings of the association aimed at sharing Irish culture and traditions. There is a book club which reads books that are connected to Ireland by subject or author. There are Irish dancing classes for both adults and children. In Celtic Art classes, people can learn to make traditional Irish things. For example, in February, they made straw St. Bridget’s Crosses. The crosses are a symbol of Ireland and found in many Irish homes. Regan said that the art class’ next project is working on something in copper. Other classes include Celtic knitting and Gaelic language classes. Regan shared that Gaelic is still spoken in parts of Ireland. There are music classes in tin whistle and flute for children and in fiddle, Celtic Harp and Uillean (elbow) harp for adults.

The Celtic Harp is another symbol of Ireland. For information, call the cultural committee at 201-321-6706 or email ajhack1@aol.com

The association is involved in different events during the year. With the Friendly Sons, it co- sponsors the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Morristown. After the parade, there is a party at the association clubhouse. Every fall, it has a feis (festival), an Irish dance competition at the Sussex County Fairgrounds. There’s a Christmas Hooly (gathering of people getting together for fun)at the clubhouse in the begin-

Deana Alagna. She’s a New Jersey native-turned fashionista and she’s just getting started in the world of fashion.

Alagna comes from humble beginnings. Her maternal grandparents immigrated from southern Italy to pursue the great American dream. Her parents are both Italian – her mother being first generation – so, hard work and determination come first in Deana’s family.

As a young child, she enjoyed playtime like most kids. She utilized her imagination and created her own worlds she’d play in to keep her busy. However, as she got older, she put special creativity into her artwork, which led to designing clothing. Initially, she never thought being a fashion designer would be her first career choice. The life of

fashion chose her.

In high school, Deana had an inkling that fashion was her calling. By junior year, she began to take weekend classes at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) in Manhattan, NY. Once she graduated high school in 2004, she returned to higher education in The Big Apple.

But what was Alagna’s original inspiration? Did she truly have the makings of a fashion mogul in her blood?

As a matter of fact, yes! Her maternal grandmother was a seamstress. And her mother worked in the industry in the early-to-mid80s for fashion industry brand names like Dior and Lacoste, which were at the top of their game at the time. Her mother worked in the industry until she gave birth to Deana, so to say she was born into fash-

ion is an understatement. Since her high school days, Deana knew in her heart of hearts she would run her own clothing line. She knew it was something that would happen somewhere down the line. With every job she had held in the industry, she learned and observed and honedin on her skill. And then in

2020, once the pandemic hit, the world stopped, and everyone hit rock bottom. What was going to happen after two weeks? Would people head back to work? There was so much uncertainty buzzing around. Deana had felt it too and faced her own version of “rock bottom”. With her newfound free time,

she’d spend days reviewing old sketches and clothing she’d made in the past; she realized she had created many skirts and pants.

Then, the idea was birthed that she had made an entire clothing line comprised of just bottoms. And with that, Alagna decided to combine rock (soonto-be rok) and bottoms (soon-to-be but- tomed).

Rokbuttomed would be an inspirational clothing line.

Honestly, it always starts with your bottom, right?

Once we hit that, we RISE UP. The world would eventually RISE UP and ROK on again. And at Rokbuttomed, each skirt is madeto-order by Alagna herself.

When you ROK a Rokbuttomed skirt, you should feel empowered and ready to rok your way through life...make it your own... be the rockstar that you were always meant to be.

And at Rokbuttomed, their mission is the empower the woman on-the-go. Everyone starts at the bottom and it’s up to you to rise UP and rok on (...with some rock ‘n’ roll music in the back- ground). It literally starts with your BUTTom. And everyone has a story, no?

The brand has expanded into delivering cus- tom dance skirts, and they’re looking to the near future. Bridal skirts, pants and even shorts are on the horizon.Rokbuttomed may be found on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) and at Rokbuttomed. com. The brand will be opening its flagship store in Manhattan later in 2024.

Find out more information at www.rokbuttomed. com

ning of December. There they tell stories, have music, and celebrate the holiday. Also, every month, there is Irish Set dancing (like square dancing) at the clubhouse. Those who want to join the association must be at least 18 years old. Annual member dues for individuals (at least 18 years old) are individual $25, married couple $30, individual senior (65 and over) $15, and married seniors $25.

Murphy Quinn, a charter member, shared her background and gave a glimpse at how the association may celebrate its golden anniversary. Not only does Murphy Quinn have her own Irish roots (through her parents) but her husband is Irish, too. She lectures in Irish history and is working on a book about Irish women. She noted that the IAANWJ had its first meeting in September 1974. Being in the fall, though nothing is set yet, she sees the anniversary celebration as being connected with Halloween. Halloween is a holiday that was exported from Ireland. It is based on Samhain, Celtic New Year Year’s Eve. “[when] … the veil between overworld and underworld is the thinnest” explained Murphy Quinn. In Ireland, carved out turnips with candles in them were set out to guide souls; when they came to America, the Irish started using the pumpkins native to this land. Many other Halloween traditions are also rooted in Irish lore.

While they say St. Patrick’s Day is a great day for the Irish, Halloween might just be a grand day this year for the IAANWJ.

BDionne Warwick

orn in East Orange, New Jersey, Dionne Warwick would sing for her church every Sunday ( Sound familiar? ). Warwick established fame at an early age. In 1962, she was discovered by Burt Bacharach and Hal David gaining her first hit "Don't Make Me Over". Within the decade she had 18 consecutive Top 100 Singles.

Last night, Dionne Warwick took us down memory lane at the bucolic Morristown Performing Arts Center. Even though she played for an hour with her granddaughter opening for her, Warwick, ever so humble, talked about friends, family and her great love, music.

As a multiple Grammy winner, Warwick was constantly on the radio in the 60's and 70's; she was a hit machine with numbers like " Walk on By, " San Jose", " Alfie", " This girls in Love".

Ms Warwick with Bacharach and David would rack up 30 hit singles and 20 best- selling albums.

Dionne Warwicks musical genre crosses over between pop, gospel, and R&B . She transcended race, culture, and musical boundaries.

At 86 years old and still a heavy smoker, Ms. War-

wick 's voice is still strong! Playing 14 songs last evening with most of the songs abbreviated, the evenings best song was her longest:

" Do You Kow The Way to San Jose". Accompanied by her granddaughter for the remainder four songs, it is evident that Ms Warwick is happy with her life, and with all she has done.

A Most Endearing Lesson

By Richard Mabey Jr.

Iwas recently diagnosed with a severe case of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. It’s two big words for a heart condition in which the walls of the heart ventricles become very thick. So much so, that they actually decrease the size of the sacs of the heart ventricles. There is really no cure for this heart disease.

right time, for God to teach me a most valuable and endearing life lesson. I was looking through the boxes of old Spider-Man comic books, when this cherished moment unfolded.

rare Green Goblin tale that seemed to be priced, very reasonably.

A few days after my heart catheterization, that was the final heart procedure to verify my Cardiologist’s diagnosis, I went to a big comic book show. I confess that I love comic books. One of my regrets in life is that I never got to meet the late, great Stan Lee. But, that’s life. At any rate, a moment in time at the big comic book show, deeply touched my heart. It was as if the odds were a million to one, that I was at the right place, at the

A few feet away from me, were what appeared to be, a father and son. The dad seemed to be late middle age. The son appeared to be somewhere in his early twenties. Like me, they were looking for old Spider-Man comic books. Within a few moments, it became apparent that the young man, the son, was autistic. I write of this observation, with utmost earnest respect.

I could not help but to overhear that the young man was looking for Spider-Man comic books that featured Spidey’s villain, the Green Goblin. As I was looking through my box of comic books, I came across a rather

I most respectfully, with the Spider-Man comic book with Green Goblin on the cover, asked the father and son team if they had this particular comic book. I explained that I could not but help overhear their enthusiastic search for Green Goblin comics. The young man smiled, from ear to ear. He exclaimed that he did not have that issue. The father smiled at me and thanked me for finding that particular Green Goblin comic book. We introduced ourselves to each other. Then got lost in small talk about Spider-Man and all his villains. We talked for a good 10 minutes or so. Then the father simply said that it was time for his son and him to get back to the task of finding more good

Spider-Man back issues. We all shook hands and returned to searching through boxes of comic books.

Upon leaving the big comic book show, the memory of that meeting with my two fellow Spider-Man fans, haunted the marrow of

the old Green Goblin comic book, had touched a chord in my heart.

I confess that I was feeling just a bit sad, when I first entered the doorway to the big comic book show. As I drove home, it dawned on me that God had brought the father and son team into my life, if even for just a few minutes, to bring a certain joy to my heart. There are really no words to convey the im-

mense happiness that the old Green Goblin comic book brought to the heart of that fine young man. He actually jumped up and down a bit, when he first held the comic book in his hand.

The young man’s joy and exuberance over a seemingly simple thing, awoken me to realize that I needed to rise above my sadness. After pulling into my garage, I took a walk around my yard. Birds

were basking in my two front yard birdbaths. The yellow flowers in my flowering bush were abounding. Birds sang and flew about my old Live Oak. A neighbor walked by, walking his dog, and we exchanged friendly waves and greetings.

The joyful young man at the comic book show, gave me the gift of a most valuable lesson. To find the joy, the happiness, the splendor in the seemingly simple things in life. More than likely, I will never see that wonderful father and son team ever again. Still, their memory abides in the chambers of my heart.

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.

Yours truly at one of the big comic book shows in Central Florida.

Get Your Dog in Shape

Humans are not the only animals that may get a bit pudgy around the middle and tip the scale in the wrong direction. Man’s best friend can also pack on some extra pounds, necessitating a workout plan to get back into shape.

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, fifty-three percent of adult dogs in the United States are classified as overweight or obese by their veterinarians. Yet, pet owners are sometimes unaware that their prized pooches are overweight.

Overweight dogs and cats face some of the same health risks as overweight men and women. Musculoskeletal problems, such as degenerative joint diseases, and back problems have been linked to obesity, as have heart disease and respiratory problems. Diabetes and heat or exercise intolerance are other side effects of being overweight.

But a pet’s weight is not the lone indicator of how healthy the animal is, and the ideal weight can vary from dog to dog. A body condition score is helpful in determining a pet’s ideal body weight. Some indications a dog may not be at a healthy weight include:

• a belly that hangs below the rib cage area

• a belly that moves when the dog moves, unless the dog is pregnant or has just given birth

• inability of the owner or vet to feel the dog’s ribs in the rib cage

• a waddle of skin on the neck of the dog, where excess skin isn’t indicative of the breed

• no visual indication of the dog’s waist

• inability of the owner or vet to feel the bones near the base of the tail

• a less active lifestyle, including avoiding exercise and play

• excessive panting

Keeping a dog in shape is one of the best things an owner can do for its’ pet. But what if the dog already has packed on a few unnecessary pounds? It’s time to start a canine fitness routine and follow some other guidelines.

Talk to the pet’s veterinarian. Obesity could be the result of eating too much or inactivity, but it also can be a sign of a serious condition. If a routine exam and blood work come up normal, then a plan can be started for helping Fido shed the weight.

Consider a new food. There are many different types of foods on the market, including low-calorie options. Some foods contain extra fiber to help the dog feel fuller without having eaten as much. Also, look for foods with lean protein sources without grains and other fillers.

Break up the feeding schedule. Instead of one large meal a day, feed the dog two or three smaller portions of food, which will help keep the dog’s metabolism going all day long.

Become joint joggers. Jogging with a dog can become an enjoyable pastime that enables the owner and pet to get exercise and stay in shape.

Take up swimming. Many dogs are natural lovers of water, and swimming is an effective, low-impact exercise.

Teach the dog tricks. Physical tricks, like fetching a ball or rolling over, can keep dogs active.

Go for long walks. Take the dog with you wherever you go. The more he or she is up and moving, the less chance there is to sleep and be lazy.

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.

The Origins of May Day

By Henry M. Holden

The May Day holiday originated as a pagan celebration to welcome the summer. But why do we celebrate it with dancing, singing, drinking, lighting bonfires, and collecting flowers?

In the distant past, the summer season was used to safeguard a successful harvest. It is believed to have been associated with local gods, such as Ukko, the Finnish god of thunder who controlled the rain and thus the fertility of the land.

Many of these rituals arose from the belief that Midsummer was a magical time of good fortune and healing. Bonfires were lit and loud behavior was encouraged to drive away evil spirits.

Perhaps due to the time of year’s connection with fertility, love spells were cast at Midsummer, such as placing seven flowers beneath one’s pillow to conjure dreams of a future partner. One could also see the face of his or her future spouse by looking into a well at midnight. Bathing in natural springs and decorating houses with flowers and plants it was thought to bring good health.

The modern May Day, also known as Labor Day or International Workers’ Day, is a public holiday celebrated on May 1st every year. It is a holiday that is recognized in many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

May Day developed its roots in the American labor movement of the late 19th century. In the United States, the holiday was first celebrated in 1886, as part of the struggle for the eight-hour workday. On May 1st of that year, thousands of workers across the country went on strike, demanding better working conditions and shorter working hours. The strike was peaceful at first, but on May 4th, a bomb exploded at a labor demonstration in Chicago’s Haymarket Square, killing several people and injuring many others. The incident sparked a restraint on labor activism, but it also invigorated the labor movement and led to the establishment of May Day as a day of labor solidarity and protest.

May Day is founded in astronomy. Traditionally, it was the halfway point between the spring equinox and the summer solstice! In ancient times, this was one of the Celt-

ic cross-quarter days, which marked the midway points between the (four) solstices and equinoxes of the year.

As with many early holidays, May Day was also rooted in agriculture. Springtime festivities filled with song and dance celebrated the planted fields starting to sprout. Cattle were driven to pasture, special bonfires were lit, and doors of houses as well as livestock were decorated with yellow May flowers. In the Middle Ages, the Gaelic (Irish) people celebrated the festival of Beltane. Beltane means “Day of Fire.” People created large bonfires and danced at night to celebrate.

Today many Americans see Labor Day as time off from work, an opportunity to enjoy a barbecue with friends and family and a final moment of summertime relaxation before the busy fall season begins.

But the background of the Labor Day holiday is far more complex, dramatic and lethal than most might realize. It start with a heated campaign by workers in the late 19th century to win support and recognition for their contributions.

In July 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed into law legislation creating a national Labor Day holiday in early September—even as federal troops in Chicago brutally crushed a strike by railroad and Pullman sleeping car company workers, leaving some 30 people dead.

In other parts of the world, the holiday has a less lethal history. In Europe, for example, it finds its roots in ancient traditions

In Germany, the day is known as Maifeiertag and is celebrated with dancing, singing and the raising of maypoles. In Finland and Sweden, May Day is celebrated with picnics and outdoor activities, while in the United Kingdom, the celebration includes dancing and other traditional folk customs.

Today, May Day is an official holiday in 66 countries and unofficially

in many

celebrated

The maypole has ancient beginnings, but scholars cannot agree on what the history of the maypole is. (photo author’s collection.)

Starting a journey toward better health and wellness can begin the same way you can (and should) start each day: with a nutritious breakfast. A morning meal loaded with nutrient-boosting flavor provides the foundation you need not only for the day at hand, but for a sustainable long-term eating plan, as well.

Consider this Sweetpotato Breakfast Bake as a budget-friendly way to feed your family with plenty of leftovers for days to follow. Full of eggs, bell peppers and turkey sausage, it's a surefire crowd-pleaser that's also loaded with shredded sweetpotatoes. According to the American Diabetes Association, sweetpotatoes are a "dia-

betes superfood" because they're rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, all of which are good for overall health and may help prevent disease.

Plus, they offer both a natural sweetener and "sweet" flavor without added sugar to give homemade dishes a perfect touch of deliciousness. Ideal as a key ingredient in both simple and elevated recipes, sweetpotatoes can be prepared in several ways, ranging from cooked on the stove to baked, microwaved, grilled or even slow-cooked.

At your next breakfast or brunch get-together, share this fun fact: the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission deliberately spells sweetpotato as one word after the one-word spelling

was officially adopted by the National Sweetpotato Collaborators in 1989 to help avoid confusion between sweetpotaotes and equally unique, distinctive white potatoes in the minds of shippers, distributors, warehouse workers and consumers.

Visit NCSweetpotatoes. com to find more nutritious breakfast ideas to support your wellness goals.

Sweetpotato Breakfast Bake

Recipe courtesy of Tessa Nguyen, RD, LDN, on behalf of the North Carolina

Sweetpotato Commission

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Servings: 12

Nonstick cooking spray

1 cup sweetpotatoes, shredded

1/2 cup cooked turkey sausage crumbles or cooked turkey bacon

1/4 cup green onions, sliced 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced 9 eggs, beaten 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

carefully into baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese and black pepper over eggs.

Heat oven to 400 F. Spray 13-by-9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Evenly spread sweetpotatoes, sausage or bacon, green onions and bell peppers in dish. Pour eggs

Bake 15 minutes.

Slice into 12 pieces and serve hot.

Source: North Carolina

Sweetpotato Commission (Family Features)

Sourdough from Scratch

4 variations of friendship breads

What better way to celebrate friendship and camaraderie than with comforting foods all can enjoy. Sourdoughs and friendship breads may go in and out of fashion, but you can make them a staple of your inner circle with recipes that are

easier than they appear. Consider this Sourdough Starter, a 7-day process that may seem lengthy at first glance but requires just a few minutes in the kitchen each day. Without breaking the bank, this made-fromscratch solution includes just two ingredients - un-

bleached flower and warm water - so you can whip up favorites like Plain Sourdough, Everything Loaf, Cinnamon Brown Sugar Loaf and Chocolate Loaf.

Some are tempted to give up on a weeklong recipe, but if you can keep a cont. on page 14

Sourdough...

cont. from page 12

houseplant alive, you can finish this simple starter and reap its delicious rewards. Find more homemade favorites at Culinary.net.

Sourdough Starter

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

Total time: 7 days

Digital kitchen scale

Unbleached all-purpose flour

Warm water

Glass bowl

Silicone spoon Mason jar

Day 1: In glass bowl, stir 50 grams flour and 50 grams warm water. Let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 2: Add 50 grams flour and 50 grams warm water to bowl. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 3: Discard half the

starter. Add 100 grams flour and 100 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 4: Discard half the starter. Add 150 grams flour and 150 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 5: Discard half the starter then pour remaining starter into Mason jar. Add 150 grams flour and 150 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 6: Discard half the starter. Add 200 grams flour and 200 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 7: Place warm water in bowl and add spoonful of starter to water. If it floats, it's ready to make bread. If it sinks, repeat Day 6 instructions. If not floating by Day 10, throw out and start over.

Tips: If making bread

Celebrating our 3rd Anniversary

every day, starter will need fed every day. If not making bread every day, starter can stay at room temperature and be fed every other day. If starter can't be fed, it can be safely stored in refrigerator up to 10 days, covered, without feeding.

To measure correctly, place empty bowl on scale then clear to zero before each measurement.

Plain Sourdough

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

Medium bowl

Warm water

Sourdough starter Salt

Unbleached all-purpose flour

Silicone spoon Sharp knife

In medium bowl, combine 330 grams warm water,

90 grams sourdough starter and 10 grams salt. Stir well then add 525 grams flour. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes.

Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times then cover. Repeat process four times then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double.

Sprinkle flour on counter then spread dough flat on floured surface. Fold dough from sides then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour.

Heat oven to 500 F with uncovered Dutch oven inside.

Using sharp knife, score dough then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven. Cover with lid and bake 20 minutes then remove lid and lower temperature to 475 F for 25 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205 F. Let rest at least 1 hour before cutting and serving.

Everything Loaf

Recipe courtesy

of "Cookin' Savvy"

Medium bowl

Warm water

Sourdough starter

Salt

Unbleached all-purpose flour

Silicone spoon

Everything bagel seasoning

Sharp knife

In medium bowl, combine 330 grams warm water, 90 grams sourdough starter and 10 grams salt. Stir well then add 525 grams flour. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes.

Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times then cover. Repeat process four times then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double.

Sprinkle flour on count-

er then spread dough flat on floured surface. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning. Fold dough from sides then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour.

Heat oven to 500 F with uncovered Dutch oven inside.

Using sharp knife, score dough then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven. Cover with lid and bake 20 minutes then remove lid and lower temperature to 475 F for 25 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205 F. Let rest at least 1 hour before sprinkling with everything bagel seasoning, cutting and serving.

Sourdough...

cont. from page 14

Recipe

"Cookin' Savvy"

Medium bowl

Warm water

Sourdough starter

Salt

Unbleached all-purpose

flour

Silicone spoon

Softened butter

Brown sugar

Cinnamon

Sharp knife

In medium bowl, com-

bine 330 grams warm water, 90 grams sourdough starter and 10 grams salt. Stir well then add 525 grams flour. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes. Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times then cover. Repeat process four times then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double.

In bowl, mix 4 tablespoons butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar and 2 tablespoons cinnamon.

Sprinkle flour on counter then spread dough flat on floured surface. Spread cinnamon mixture on dough. Fold dough from sides, pinching to keep cinnamon inside, then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour.

Heat oven to 475 F with uncovered Dutch oven inside.

Using sharp knife, score dough then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven lined with aluminum foil. Cover with lid and bake 20 minutes then remove lid and lower temperature to 450 F for 25 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205 F. Let rest at least 1 hour before cutting and serving.

Chocolate Loaf

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

Medium bowl

Warm water

Sourdough starter

Salt

Unbleached all-purpose flour

Cocoa powder

Sugar

Silicone spoon

Milk chocolate chips

Sharp knife

In medium bowl, combine 350 grams warm water, 150 grams sourdough starter and 10 grams salt. Stir well then add 500 grams flour, 50 grams cocoa powder and 50 grams sugar. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes.

Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few

times, adding 1 1/2 cups

milk chocolate chips during process, then cover. Repeat process four times then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double. Sprinkle flour on counter then spread dough flat on floured surface. Fold dough from sides then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour.

Heat oven to 450 F with uncovered Dutch oven in-

side.

Using sharp knife, score dough then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven. Cover with lid and bake 40 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205 F. Let rest at least 1 hour before cutting and serving.

Source: Culinary.net (Family Features)

Whether Cinco de Mayo means an opportunity to celebrate your family's heritage or it's simply an excuse to gather with the ones you love, every holiday truly is about the same thing: special moments together. While those treasured times at the table revolve around camaraderie and conversation, it can start with a filling meal and end with a sweet treat.

Take this year's festivities the traditional route with recipes that combine familiar favorites with ingredients you normally may not use otherwise, such as cactus. This Mexican Cactus Pork Stew makes Cinco de Mayo a cinch with the use of a Dutch oven. Just brown fresh pork shoulder (or reheat leftover pork) in the Dutch oven and combine with onion and jalapeno for the right mixture of flavor and spice. Once pork is

Put a Traditional Spin on Cinco de Mayo

Celebrate Mexican culture with pork stew and cinnamon sweets

cooked or warmed through, add broth, beans, spices, seasonings and a cup of chopped cactus for a southwestern spin.

After some lively chatter or friendly competition, you're bound to work up the appetite for dessert. Call the kids to the kitchen to lend a hand with these Kid-Friendly Mexican Cinnamon Cookies - they'll love working with the dough and rolling warm cookies in the cinnamon-sugar mixture after baking. Remember, they don't have to be perfect; you can ensure a bit of fun and flavor by letting their creativity shine.

Visit Culinary.net to find more family-friendly recipes perfect for celebrating holidays throughout the year.

Mexican Cactus Pork Stew

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

1 pound pork shoulder (leftover or fresh)

1 medium onion, chopped

1 jalapeno pepper, chopped

3 cups beef broth

1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes

2 cans (15 ounces each) mild chili beans

1 cup chopped cactus (nopales)

1 tablespoon garlic powder

2 tablespoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper salt, to taste pepper, to taste

4 green onions, chopped, for garnish

1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish

If using fresh pork, in Dutch oven, cube and brown it with onion and jalapeno pepper. If using leftover pork, reheat in Dutch oven with onion and jalapeno pepper.

Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, chili beans, cactus, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper and salt and pepper, to taste.

Simmer 25 minutes then garnish with green onions and cilantro.

Kid-Friendly Mexican Cinnamon Cookies

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

4 sticks butter, at room temperature

4 cups self-rising flour, plus additional for coating workspace

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 egg

3/4 cup sugar

Topping:

2/3 cup sugar

4 teaspoons cinnamon

Preheat oven to 375 F.

In bowl, combine butter, 4 cups flour and cinnamon. Add egg and sugar then knead into ball.

Spread additional flour on counter and cut ball into six sections. Roll each section into 24-inch ropes then cut into 1-inch pieces and place on cookie sheet.

Bake 10 minutes.

To make topping: In bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon.

Roll warm cookies in mixture and let cool on rack.

Source: Culinary.net (Family Features)

Unveiling the Ancient Origins of Passover: A Journey Through Time and Tradition

Introduction: Passover, one of the most significant festivals in Judaism, marks the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. Its origins are deeply rooted in history, tradition, and faith, tracing back thousands of years. This article embarks on a journey through time to unravel the origins of Passover, exploring its historical context, religious significance, and enduring legacy.

Ancient Egypt: The Crucible of Slavery and Exodus To comprehend the origins of Passover, one must delve into the annals of ancient Egypt, where the Israelites endured centuries of bondage under Pharaoh's tyranny. According to biblical accounts, the Book of Exodus narrates the oppression faced by the Israelites and their eventual deliverance orchestrated by Moses, a pivotal figure in Jewish history.

The Exodus, believed to have occurred around the 13th century BCE, serves as the cornerstone of Passover. It symbolizes the liberation of a people from oppression, the triumph of justice over tyranny, and the dawn of a new era of freedom. The biblical narrative recounts the ten plagues inflicted upon Egypt, culminating in the climactic event of the Israelites' exodus from bondage.

Passover: A Commemoration of Liberation Passover, known as Pesach in Hebrew, derives its name from the pivotal event of the Exodus. It commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery and their journey towards freedom. The festival begins with the Seder, a ceremonial meal replete with symbolic foods, prayers, and rituals that encapsulate the essence of the Passover narrative.

Central to the Passover observance is the consumption

of matzah, unleavened bread symbolizing the haste with which the Israelites fled Egypt, leaving no time for their bread to rise. The bitter herbs represent the bitterness of slavery, while the sweet charoset symbolizes the mortar used by the Israelite slaves in constructing Pharaoh's monuments.

The Paschal lamb, sacrificed and eaten during ancient times, signifies the divine intervention that spared the Israelites from the final plague, the death of the firstborn. Though the Temple in Jerusalem, where sacrifices were performed, no longer stands, the symbolic significance of the Paschal lamb endures in the Passover tradition.

Evolution of Passover: From Temple Rituals to Home Celebrations

Over the centuries, Passover has undergone a transformative evolution, adapting to changing circumstances while retaining its core significance. Following the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, the practice of sacrificing the Paschal lamb ceased, prompting a shift towards home-based observances.

The Haggadah, a text recounting the Exodus narrative and guiding the Seder proceedings, emerged as a central component of Passover observance. Its diverse versions reflect the rich tapestry of Jewish traditions spanning different regions and historical epochs.

Passover in the Modern Era: Renewal and Relevance In contemporary times, Passover continues to resonate deeply within the Jewish community, serving as a symbol of resilience, faith, and collective memory. Its themes of liberation and redemption reverberate across generations, inspiring Jews worldwide to reflect on the enduring strug-

gle for freedom and justice.

Moreover, Passover's universal message of empathy and solidarity transcends religious boundaries, offering profound insights into the human experience of oppression and liberation. As individuals gather around the Seder table, they engage in dialogue, reflection, and remembrance, forging connections across cultures and generations.

Conclusion: The origins of Passover are deeply intertwined with the ancient history, religious beliefs, and cultural heritage of the Jewish people. Rooted in the biblical narrative of the Exodus, Passover symbolizes the triumph of freedom over oppression and the enduring quest for justice and redemption.

Through centuries of evolution and adaptation, Passover has retained its relevance and resonance, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Jewish faith. As Jews worldwide gather to celebrate Passover, they not only commemorate their ancestral journey from slavery to freedom but also reaffirm their commitment to the timeless values of compassion, justice, and solidarity.

Passover stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and tradition, transcending time and space to impart its timeless message of hope and renewal. As we reflect on the origins of Passover, we are reminded of the indomitable spirit of the human soul, capable of overcoming the most formidable of challenges in pursuit of freedom and dignity.

In an ever-changing world, Passover serves as a beacon of light, guiding us through the darkness of oppression and injustice towards the promise of a brighter future. Its rituals

Passover Celebrations Today: Traditions, Significance, and Modern Practices

Introduction: Passover, or Pesach, stands as one of the most significant festivals in Judaism, commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. Across the globe, Jews observe this holiday with deep reverence, blending ancient traditions with modern customs. In this article, we delve into the contemporary celebration of Passover, exploring its rituals, significance, and how it is observed in today's diverse world.

Historical Context: The roots of Passover trace back thousands of years to the biblical account of the Exodus, where Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt after enduring years of slavery. The ten plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, and the receiving of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai are central elements of this narrative.

Significance of Passover: Passover holds immense significance within Judaism, symbolizing themes of liberation, renewal, and redemption. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites' journey from bondage to freedom, conveying timeless messages of hope, faith, and resilience.

Preparation for Passover: The weeks leading up to Passover are marked by meticulous preparation. Jewish households engage in thorough cleaning, removing all traces of leavened products (chametz) from their homes. This practice, known as "biur chametz," symbolizes the removal of spiritual impurity and the embracing of purity in both the physical and spiritual realms.

The Seder: The focal point of Passover observance is the Seder, a ceremonial meal held on the first two nights of the holiday (outside of Israel, where it is observed for seven or eight days). Families and friends gather around the Seder table, recounting the Exodus story through readings from the Haggadah, a text that guides participants through the rituals and prayers of the evening.

Modern Seder Customs: While the core elements of the Seder remain unchanged, modern Jewish communities often incorporate innovative customs and interpretations

into their celebrations. This might include incorporating social justice themes, engaging in discussions about contemporary issues, or incorporating new foods and rituals to reflect cultural diversity.

Dietary Restrictions: Passover dietary laws prohibit the consumption of leavened products, such as bread, pasta, and most grains. Instead, matzo, an unleavened bread, takes center stage, symbolizing the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt. Traditional Passover foods like matzo ball soup, gefilte fish, and brisket are enjoyed during the holiday.

Community Involvement: Passover is a time for community and fellowship, with many Jewish organizations hosting communal Seders for those who may not have a place to celebrate. Synagogues, community centers, and even virtual gatherings provide opportunities for Jews to come together and share in the Passover experience.

Global Diversity in Passover Celebrations: Passover is celebrated in diverse ways around the world, reflecting the unique customs and traditions of different Jewish communities. From the Sephardic traditions of the Mediterranean to the Ashkenazi customs of Eastern Europe, each community brings its own flavor to the holiday, enriching the tapestry of Jewish cultural heritage.

Passover and Interfaith Dialogue: In an increasingly interconnected world, Passover serves as a bridge for interfaith dialogue and understanding. Many non-Jewish individuals participate in Passover Seders, fostering mutual respect and appreciation for different religious traditions.

Conclusion: Passover continues to hold deep meaning and relevance in the lives of Jews worldwide. Its ancient rituals and timeless themes of liberation and redemption resonate across generations, reminding us of the enduring power of faith, community, and hope. As Jews gather around the Seder table each year, they reaffirm their connection to their rich heritage and the eternal message of freedom.

The Origins.....

cont. from page 10

more, but ironically it is rarely recognized in the country where it began, the United States of America.

According to Peter Linebaugh, author of The Incomplete, True, Authentic and Wonderful History of May Day, after the 1894 Pullman Strike, President Grover Cleveland officially moved the U.S. celebration of Labor Day to the first Monday in September, deliberately cutting ties with the international worker’s celebration for fear that it would build support for communism and other radical causes.

In 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower tried to reinvent May Day by, further separating the memories of the Haymarket Riot, by declaring May 1 to be “Law Day,” celebrating the place of law in the creation of the United States.

Law Day celebrates the rule of law in a free society. From May 1 and throughout the month of May. Its observance was later codified by Public Law on April 7, 1961. The day aims to help people appreciate their liberties and to affirm their loyalty to the United States, especially with regard to equality and justice. It also aims to cultivate respect for the law, which is vital to the democratic way of life.

Law Day 2024 is on May 1, 2024.

Unveiling the Ancient....

cont. from page 19

als and symbols resonate not only with the Jewish community but also with all those who yearn for liberation and justice.

As we partake in the Passover Seder, we not only honor our ancestors' journey from slavery to freedom but also reaffirm our commitment to tikkun olam, the Jewish concept of repairing the world. Through acts of compassion, justice, and solidarity, we strive to fulfill the timeless vision of a world where all are free to live with dignity and equality.

In conclusion, the origins of Passover are deeply rooted in the ancient history and traditions of the Jewish people. As we celebrate this festival year after year, we pay homage to the resilience and faith of our ancestors, while also renewing our commitment to the timeless values of freedom, justice, and compassion. Passover continues to inspire and uplift us, reminding us of the enduring power of hope and redemption in the face of adversity.

Hardyston Township $349,900 LAKE TAMARACK

3 BR, 1.1 BA Ranch – Expanded ranch on double lot, w/family room addition over 2 car garage. Primary bedroom w/powder room. LR open to DR, providing for lots of space. Deck access from kitchen, offering seasonal lake views. Large unfinished WO basement. Lake amenities include access to beaches, playground, fishing & more. Convenient location just minutes to Rt 23.

Jefferson Township $140,000 SENIOR COMMUNITY

2 BR, 1 BA Trailer - Manufactured home in upscale 55+ community nestled in NW Morris County. Spacious living room and side door leading to roomy deck and patio w/storage shed. EIK w/breakfast bar; in-unit washer/dryer. Current Monthly maintenance fee is $749, which includes water, sewer, property taxes, trash collection and common area maintenance.

Pompton Lakes $599,000 LAKEFRONT!

4 BR, 2 BA Colonial – Lovely custom home on dead end street welcomes you to the serene beauty of Pompton Lakes! Enjoy spectacular views from the deck of this lakefront gem. Large patio is perfect for entertaining. Home has recent new roof and gutters, and also has maintenance-free vinyl siding. Minutes from highways, transit and NYC. 1 car garage.

Pompton Plains $1,399,900 HIDDEN BEAUTY

4 BR, 4 BA Custom Home – One-of-a-kind custom farmhouse offers privacy & tranquility w/tons of room to live and play! Completely new (ren. 2023) on private 4.9 acre lot w/custom gourmet kitchen and open concept floor plan. Primary en suite BR w/ massive WIC. Expansive WI attic. Just minutes from local amenities, shopping, dining & major highways. 2 car garage.

Woodland Park $359,900 MOUNTAIN RIDGE TOWERS

w/custom WICs, and a full, finished WO basement showcasing a soundproof theater, recreation & exercise areas. Minutes to town center. 2 car garage.

2 BR, 2 BA Condo – Well-maintained 1st fl unit in 55+ Community. This is the largest unit in the development and boasts main BR w/full WIC, EIK w/abundant cabinet & counter space, and bonus storage rm/pantry. LR/DR space affords open & airy feel w/SGD leading to deck. Ample closet space and new heating/cooling system. Minutes to NYC, shopping and parks.

Danielle Fiorina Ranks in the top 20 in All of New Jersey and in the top 1% Nationwide for Century 21

Patricia Wojtyszyn, broker/owner of CENTURY 21 Crest Real Estate, Inc. is pleased to announce that in recognition of her outstanding sales production and commitment to quality service, CENTURY 21 Real Estate LLC recently honored Danielle Fiorina, sales associate with CENTURY 21 Crest Real Estate, Inc., the Masters Diamond Award for CENTURY 21 System sales, earning over $265,000 in gross commission sales within the calendar year. Danielle has also achieved the CENTURION® Award for 9 years and the DOUBLE CENTURION® Award for 2020 and 2021, earning over $500,000 and $650,000, respectively.

Danielle Fiorina is ranked 20th for CENTURY 21 agents in all of New Jersey and is ranked in the top 1% nationwide, is a NJ REALTOR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award winner for the past 18 consecutive years and a member of the CENTURION® HONOR SOCIETY. In 2023, Danielle was awarded with the CENTURY 21® President’s Producer Award for the eleventh consecutive year. She is the recipient of the Quality Service Pinnacle Producer Award, as well as titled the Top Office Producer for 2023.

“We are thrilled to recognize Danielle’s work for this momentous achievement,” says Mike Miedler, president and chief executive officer, Century 21 Real Estate LLC. “This is an outstanding honor since only a small percentage of affiliated agents in the United States receive this award for sales.”

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 with, and only with Danielle.

Danielle Fiorina has built her reputation on professionalism and honesty. As a former business owner and accountant/controller, she is very innovative and promotes her client’s needs to successfully reach their goal. She is a full-time realtor and has been a top producer in the industry for 18 years and provides individual and personalized expertise. Call Danielle to put her experience to work for you and for all your real estate needs.

“My clients always come first. Understanding their personal goals and needs is 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 CENTURY 21 with this prestigious award.” says Fiorina.

“It is evident that Danielle is a true real estate professional who shows a dedication to her clients on a daily basis. I am very pleased to have her market knowledge and business skills in my office,” says CENTURY 21 Crest Real Estate’s Wojtyszyn.

Make your first choice, the right choice, call Danielle at 973-460-4352.

"The Seven Year Disappear"

with a mother, Miriam (Cynthia Nixon) and her son, business partner (Taylor Trensch). Nixon is a famous artist who has left her son Naphtali for seven years only to return leaving him confused. The illusion of Bi-Polar disorder surfaces as both mother and son struggle with mental disorders and substance abuse. Writer Jordan Seavey has created a body of work in which the audience decides what the play is really about... the journey here is the thing; and quite a journey it is!

"Seven Year Disappear" is a modern play; it is not for the faint of heart as it deals with AIDS, Alcoholism, drug addiction and mental disorder. Serving the more progressive theater goer this performance play will resonate for the entire 90 minutes. The more traditional theater person may find this play difficult to keep up with. Scenes move in and out with no particular order, we see past relationships of both characters and the intimacy's that they experience. Director Scott Ellis let's us see the vulnerabilities in their lives and the rocky relationships that they share. Trying to make sense of it all, Ellis has the actors in peak form; we believe these people and the world that they live in.

What is most notable about this play is the deft acting in Nixon, changing roles, accents and body language, Nixon plays one of her best roles that I have seen in her stellar career. Trensch too is very good throughout the show; both blend superbly together. The scenic design by Derek Mclane and the lighting by Jeff Croiter is some of the best I have witnessed in a long time! On a black and white set, the purples that Croiter hits the stage with are breathtaking as it adds to the very cool setting. The feeling of a retro atmosphere permeates the stage. The last thing that is most noteworthy is the projection by John Narun. Much of the action is off stage if you will, we only see the faces of the actors and often in the back of the stage away from us. Narun keeps it suspenseful, somewhat erotic and perfectly captures the pulse of this play.

The New Group has had two great plays so far this year; Sabbath's Theatre and now this one.

7 Ways to Reduce Home Energy Costs

When building your budget, utility bills - especially the electric bill - are likely one of your largest monthly expenditures. One of the biggest culprits: home heating and cooling, which account for more than half of the average American household's annual energy consumption, according to estimates from the Energy Information Administration.

In fact, 83% of homeowners are concerned about the impact of energy bills on their household budgets, according to a survey conducted by Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), with 54% saying it cost "somewhat more" or "much more" to heat their homes this winter compared to last year.

To help dial down your energy costs, consider these tips from the heating and cooling experts at METUS.

Adjust the Temperature

While you're sleeping or away from home, adjust your thermostat up 5-10 F in the summer or down 5-10 F in the winter, which can help lower annual heating and cooling costs if done consistently. A smart thermostat can monitor your energy use and behaviors then automatically adjust to make your home more energy efficient.

Look for Incentives and Rebates

Qualified homeowners may be eligible to save money on qualified home energy improvement projects. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) offers tax credits and rebates, including a credit of 30% (up to $2,000) for qualify-

ing heat pump installation, an energy-efficient option to replace fossil fuel-burning furnaces. Other incentives under the IRA include offsetting costs of electrical panel upgrades and rebates for homes with energy usage reductions of 20% or more.

Switch to a Heat Pump

Among survey respondents, 54% ranked government incentives like the IRA as one of the top reasons they would cont. on page 27

7 Ways...

from page 26

consider installing a heat pump to replace a traditional air conditioner. Options like Mitsubishi Electric's all-climate heat pumps use two units - an exterior heat pump, which replaces your existing air conditioning condenser, and an interior unit installed on your furnace - to deliver cost-effective, eco-efficient, year-round heating and cooling. These smart systems not only improve air conditioning efficiency on hot days, but also determine the best source of heat (gas or electricity) on cold days, so your HVAC system is always running at peak efficiency and com fort.

Have HVAC Systems Serviced Regularly

For best performance and efficiency, regular maintenance of your heating and cooling system is imperative. Keeping outdoor units free of debris and changing air filters are tasks most homeowners can handle on their own but bringing in a professional - usually in the spring and fall - can help ensure your HVAC system and all its components, including electrical and ductwork, are functioning properly.

Improve Your Insulation

Poorly insulated attics, walls, ceilings, floors and crawl spaces can lead to energy waste and increase costs by requiring more energy to heat or cool your home. Because air can escape through these spaces when your HVAC system pushes air through your home, adding insulation can help reduce losses and keep your home more comfortable.

Use Appliances During Non-Peak Hours

Rather than using your oven, stove or clothes dryer from noon-6 p.m., peak time for many electricity providers, consider doing so in the morning or later at night. Using these appliances outside of the peak timeframe, when conventional heating and cooling systems are often running full bore, can help lower energy costs. Some utilities may also offer plans that incentivize limiting energy use during peak hours.

Think Multi-Zone

Consider upgrading to an all-climate, multi-zone heat pump, which can seamlessly connect to multiple indoor units, revolutionizing the way you experience comfort in your home. By eliminating problematic hot and cold spots in your home, this system ensures personalized comfort tailored to individual zones and optimizes energy usage by directing it only to the areas requiring heating or cooling. Replacing an outdated HVAC system with a multi-zone solution can also help achieve cost and energy savings. By efficiently managing temperature in different zones, you can experience improved energy efficiency, resulting in a more sustainable and economical solution for heating and cooling.

Find more solutions for improving your home's efficiency and increasing energy savings at MitsubishiComfort.com.

Source: Mitsubishi Electric (Family Features)

5 Steps to Get Your Yard Ready for Spring

As the weather begins to warm and days get longer, it's important to begin preparing your yard for a healthy growing season. While factors like climate, soil type and grass type can all impact how your yard grows, there are a few steps you can take during the spring months to help your lawn thrive.

From dethatching and aerating to fertilizing and mowing, tackling these simple chores can help ensure your yard looks its best and is prepared to fight off seasonal weeds, disease and drought.

Tune Your Mower

Before it's time for the first mowing of the season, inspect your mower and perform any routine maintenance necessary. That goes beyond sharpening, or replacing, the blade, and includes changing the oil, spark plugs and filter as well as filling with a fresh tank of gas.

Loosen the Thatch Layer

While it's important to avoid working on your lawn until after the final freeze to avoid damaging the grass, raking your yard with a spring tine rake to loosen thatch - the layer of leaves, roots and dead grass that builds up between live grass and soil - before the first mow is equally important. Be sure to rake when the soil is dry; if it's too soft or muddy, you may pull up healthy grass crowns.

Combat Compacted Soil

If your soil has become compacted - likely the effect of heavy foot traffic - and is too dense for water, air and other nutrients to reach the roots of your grass, aerating can help break it up and reduce thatch. A core, or plug, aerator can introduce tiny holes into your soil by removing plugs of grass and soil, which lets nutrients more easily reach the roots. An added bonus, the plugs can decompose on top of your grass, supplying more nutrients.

Fill in Bare Spots

If your lawn is looking sparse, overseeding, which involves spreading grass seed over

Photo courtesy of Unsplash your existing lawn, can help fill in bare spots. Be sure to choose the right type of seed for your climate and soil type to ensure proper growth. Applying a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer at the same time can provide additional nutrients that are important for promoting healthy growth.

Start Seasonal Mowing

When the ground is dry enough and your grass is long enough to require cutting, begin seasonal mowing. Be sure to use proper techniques, including varying your mowing direction each time to avoid creating patterns or ruts, and avoid cutting grass too low, which can make the lawn more susceptible to weeds and drought stress. In general, never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.

Find more tips to help get your yard ready for warm weather at eLivingtoday.com.

Source: eLivingtoday.com (Family Features)

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Former PGA Tour caddy At Bowling Green Golf Club

I Remember Dad: The Red Barn

By Richard Mabey Jr.

In early June of 1983, I was just 29 years old. I was working as a proofreader for Oral-B Toothbrushes, for their marketing services pamphlets and booklets. At that time they were located in Fairfield. I had earned a week’s vacation time. Little did I know, when that week began, that I was about to embark on an adventure that would leave a profoundly positive mark upon the deepest chambers of my heart center.

Dad also took a week’s vacation time from his job as a long-distance truck driver. We had big plans to build a small barn, along Mabey Lane, in the backyard of the old Mabey Homestead. Uncle Ed, one of Dad’s older brothers, lived next door to us. Uncle Ed was now retired and agreed to help us build the barn.

Dad and Uncle Ed were both World War II veterans. Uncle Ed served in the U. S. Navy. Dad served in the Seventh Army Air Corps, stationed at Hickam Airfield in Hawaii. Both men talked very little about their time in service. Uncle Ed’s ship was sunk, by a German war ship, off the coast of England. He was rescued by a British Navy ship.

Well, Monday morning Dad drove Uncle Ed and I, in his Ford Ranger pickup truck, to the old Channel Lumber on Route 23. We bought a good amount of two by fours, plywood boards, black roofing shingles, and four large hinges. The three of us loaded the back of Dad’s pickup truck with this extravagant haul of wood, shingles and hinges. The adventure had begun.

Why do we remember certain things? As if they are implanted with indelible ink into the cavernous vaults of our subconscious

minds. But for some reason, I remember we stopped for lunch at the Burger King on Route 23. I’m not sure if it was in Wayne or Pequannock.

One thing I do remember was that, as we ate our hamburgers and chomped on our French fries, Dad took out a folded piece of notebook paper from his shirt pocket. On this bluelined paper, were the very plans Dad had drawn in pencil, for the structure of his dream barn.

I remember that there was an electrical enthusiasm in Dad’s voice. There was almost a song in Dad’s voice as he showed his brother and I his plans on how he wanted his small barn built. I know how odd this may sound, but it almost seemed that the people in nearby tables, actually stopped talking to one another to hear what Dad was saying. There was no doubt about it, Dad’s enthusiasm at that Burger King was definitely contagious.

I remember we drove halfway down Mabey Lane. Since it was not a busy road, Dad parked over to the side, along the pine trees on our property and we all unloaded the lumber and roofing

shingles onto the green grass of our old backyard.

I remember this moment like it was yesterday. After we completely unloaded the back of Dad’s Ford Ranger, Dad took a moment and looked at the very spot that he had staked out to be the location where his dream barn would proudly stand. Dad stood there, bigger than life, with his hands on his hips, with a great big smile on his face.

“Men, this is where we’re gonna build the barn!” Dad declared with a most glorious enthusiasm in his voice.

Something touched me deep inside, the very moment Dad gleefully spoke those words. It was the first time in my life that my father had called me a man. It’s hard to put into words. But at that moment in time, I truly became a man.

To be continued next issue.

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.

This is a photo of the red barn that Dad, Uncle Ed and I built in June of 1983. Our beloved Shetland Sheepdog, Gidget, can be seen walking along, beside the barn.

The Notebook

"The Notebook" is based on the 1996 novel of the same name by Nicholas Sparks. The 2004 movie was directed by Nick Cassavetes, from a screenplay by Jeremy Leven and Jan Sardi. In its current Broadway production, the book is by Bekah Brunstetter and the music and lyrics is by Ingrid Michaelson.

The musical has two directors: four time Tony nominee Michael Greif and Schele Williams who is making a Broadway debut. Williams is also going to be directing the highly anticipated "The Wiz" which is opening in April.

In the current musical we get three Noah's and three Allie's... younger, middle and older. For the most part the six are good; I thought that the younger Allie (Jordan Tyson) was woefully miscast. Where Allie came from money, was a proper girl, this younger Allie ex-hued none of that. More like an inner city persona, Tyson was just not believable.

In Brett J. Banakis gorgeous set design we get a wonderful slide movement

throughout the two hours fifteen minutes.Equally as effective is the sound by Nevin Steinberg and the costumes by Paloma Young. The effective orange and blue lighting by Ben Stanton too made the mood well in tune with the plot.

The musical for the most part was very similar to the movie, two young people fall deeply in love with one another and even though ten years has gone by, they never stop thinking of each other. The key to the musicals success is that the three different sets of Noah and Allie need to all be effective. Whereas Maryann Plunkett as the elder and Dorian Harewood as the husband are excellent, we get the best interaction between Joy Woods and Ryan Vasquez, the middle aged actors; their singing and body language is captivating. The two are silky smooth on stage! Even though John Cardoza holds up his end as the younger Noah, it is Tyson who is an anchor around his neck. Even though Tyson has a very good singing voice, her Broadway debut falls flat.

The two opening scenes,

both first act and second act fire on all cylinders. It is the second act, however, where this show excels. The songs, the pace and the story all come together nicely. Songs like "We Have To Try", "Forever", "It's Not Easy", "I Know" and "Coda" were all well sung songs; the lyrics too were catchy and fit the moment of the plot. The first act too had some nice songs: "Time", "Leave The Light On", "If This Is Love" were most memorable. Having some great moments in the first act, it still didn't compare the the afternoons second act.

For the romantics out there, "The Notebook" is for the most part an entertaining show. The choreography (Katie Spelman) is underwhelming, as is some of the ensemble cast. Allie's parents: Andrea Burns and Charles E. Wallace are not moving in their parts. Burns was much more effective in her role as nurse Lori.Neither actor brought depth as parents to Allie, they were mostly robotic and aloof.

By Steve Sears

INJ Starz: Marilyn McCoo Hometown: Jersey City

t is always nice to have the Fifth Dimension’s Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. visit the Garden State. The husband-and-wife team of almost 55 years (July 26 is the big day) will be headlining at Englewood's Bergen Performing Arts Center with Darlene Love on Sunday evening, April 14.

Davis said, “We are so honored to be to be sharing the stage with Darlene Love. We met Darlene years ago when she was with the Blossoms. We have been following her career through the years.”

McCoo added, “We are so happy for the recognition that she has finally gotten for all the vocals she was responsible for, and so many hits. And it was just wonderful for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (Love is a 2011 inductee) to acknowledge her. It is exciting.”

McCoo, who turned 80 in September, and Davis, who will be 86 in June, are this month’s My Life Publications “NJ Starz” – in an interesting way. McCoo was born in New Jersey but never lived here, but still has family here. Davis is from St. Louis, Missouri, but there is no way you separate

this loving, talented team.

They go together – and are inseparable.

“I think it's really a blessing if you end up marrying a person that you like; not just love, but like,” McCoo said of she and Davis. “Friendship is such an important part of making a relationship work - friendship and mutual respect.”

“Beautiful,” her husband followed with. “The Lord was watching us, looking down on us. He said, ‘If you are thinking that you are not meant for each other, I have news for you. I am going to put you together, and you have to stay together all through the years.’ And that is what he did.”

McCoo was born at the former Margaret Hague Maternity Hospital in Jersey City. She was delivered by the trusted physician, Dr. Lena Frances Edwards. McCoo explained. “She was the one who inspired my mother to go into medicine. My mother decided that since she (Edwards) was an OBGYN, she wanted her to deliver all her children. We were living in Columbus, Georgia, but every time my moth

cont. on page 33

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Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. (Photographed by Darren Stone\Courtesy of Jon Carrasco)

er would get ready to have a baby, she would get on the train and travel up to Jersey City, and Dr. Edwards would deliver each one of us. That was how determined my mother was.”

McCoo’s parents were Waymon and Mary, and she had three siblings. “Glenda was the oldest and still is, Millie is my younger sister, and Wayman Jr. was the baby, and he's no longer with us,” McCoo said.

The love for music for McCoo and Davis came before the age of 10. Davis came from a family of entrepreneurs in the lumber business, and he said that although his father also wanted to be a horn player, he rarely picked up his saxophone – but his son did, at age five.

“I started getting into music, learning it, and playing guitar, and that was really what I wanted to do. I just stayed with it, and I am glad I did, because it brought me to where I am today.”

McCoo got more involved with music, especially singing, when she moved with her family to Los Angeles when she was seven years old. “My mother and father, and my older sister Glenda and I, used to get around the piano, and daddy would teach us harmony parts,” she recalled. “I was delighted because I was the youngest of the group, and they included me.” The tiny gathering was shocked that McCoo was able to hold harmonious notes. It would serve her well in the future.

McCoo attended Susan Miller Dorsey High School, and then headed to UCLA for college. While there, she started singing with a group called Hi-Fi's. She said, “Music was always going to be a part of my life. While I was in school, a friend of mine by the name of Lamont McLemore – he was a photographer, but he always loved group singing and putting together groups. In the evenings, people would come to the studio and sing harmonies and everything. I was the only one that was in school at that time.”

By chance, Ray Charles heard the Hi-Fi's, liked what he heard, and wanted to record the group for his proposed record label, Tangerine Records. The group, which eventually became the Vocals, also had a chance to tour with Ray Charles.

McCoo recalled, “I was in school, and my mother said the only way she was going to sign the papers to agree to me going out on the road at that time was that I had to promise

her that when that tour was over, I would come back and get my (Business Administration) degree. When the tour was over, I told my mother, ‘Don't worry, I am going back to school. I have seen enough of the world, and I know that I do need to have my degree.’”

But there was more music to be made. Eventually McCoo and McLemore would meet Johnny Rivers, who would form his own record label, Soul City Records. McCoo said, “At that time, Billy (Davis) had come out from St. Louis, and he was a very strong part of the group because he sang a lot of leads when we would work live.” The group, then going by the name of the Versatiles, added Florence LaRue, and Ron Townson, who had been in and out of the group, eventually stayed on.

However, Rivers, feeling the name “Versatiles” was outdated, suggested the group needed a new name. Davis said, “While we were trying to pick out the names while we were recording, Johnny said, ‘Everybody go home and come up with some names that we think would fit for today, and we’ll come back and pull them out of the hat and see which one that we think is the best, alright?’ And Ronald and his wife came up with the Fifth Dimension. We all heard that, and we knew that was the name - we knew that was it.”

What followed was a career of harmonious, popular songs that have stood the test of time. Twenty Top 40 singles (six which placed in the Top 10), 14 gold and six platinum records, and six Grammy awards as a group (McCoo and Davis Jr. themselves would win a Grammy as a duet in 1977). The songs are well known: “Up, Up and Away,” “Stoned Soul Picnic,” “Aquarius\Let the Sunshine In,” and “Wedding Bells Blues” among many others.

Frank Sinatra early on aided the group when he invited them to be on a bill with him at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. McCoo said, “Just a memory about Frank Sinatra. He was so good to the group. He really, in so many ways, helped launch the group. When we worked together with him, that was important because it introduced us to this whole group of people from his era that were not familiar with the Fifth Dimension.”

McCoo and Davis left the Fifth Dimension in 1975 to perform and record as a duo. “You Don’t Have to Be a Star,” their first released single from their debut album I Hope We Get to Love in Time, soared to the number one spot on both the Billboard Hot 100

cont. on page 34

and Hot Soul Singles charts, and reached the top 10 on Billboard's Easy Listening chart. It would garner for McCoo and Davis a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 1977, who that same year they were also the first African American couple to have their own television variety show, The Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr. Show. After two subsequent albums, The Two of Us and Marilyn + Billy, both embarked on solo careers. While Davis focused on singing gospel, McCoo hosted Solid Gold and occasionally appeared on the soap opera, The Days of Our Lives, and had roles in other television shows, film, and on stage. In 2021, McCoo and Davis released their first studio album together in 30 years, Blackbird Lennon-McCartney Icons.

For the past 28 years, McCoo and Davis have had their own praise ministry called Soldiers For the Second Coming. Davis said, “The Lord gave me that vision. There is a group of us who sing praise songs and give testimony about what the Lord is doing in our lives so that we can build each other's faith and our beliefs. It is a very lovable ministry, everybody comes, and we are on Facebook. It is just really nice.”

For more information about Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., visit their website at www.mccoodavis.com. For more information about their upcoming show at Bergen PAC, visit www.bergenpac.org.

Bchanges over the years, it can easily confuse taxpayers on what, when and how much can be used to qualify for a home mortgage related deduction. So when your mortgage company reports tax-related information to you and the IRS using Form 1098, it no longer means all the interest and points reported on these statements are tax deductible. Here is what you need to remember:

• Mortgage interest deductions loan amount limits. For mortgages starting on or after Dec. 15, 2017, you can deduct interest on up to $750,000 of the loan (it is $1 million for mortgages initiated before Dec. 15, 2017). If your original mortgage is above the threshold, a calculation will have to be done to determine the deductible amount of interest. You can’t simply deduct the full amount of interest being reported on your Form 1098.

• Proceeds not used to buy a home add complexity. Proceeds from home equity debt that are not used to build, buy, or substantially improve a qualified home are not tax deductible. This includes mortgage or home equity proceeds used to pay for college expenses, debit consolidation, or other purposes. Mortgage companies issuing these loans will still send you a Form 1098, but it’s up to you to prove how you use the funds during the current year and any

prior year.

• Mortgage points requires review of settlement statements. Points are paid as a way to obtain a lower interest rate. Generally, points are deductible in the year they are paid, but they have more restrictions than mortgage interest. Points paid to refinance an existing mortgage, for example, may need to be deducted over the life of the loan. If you bought or refinanced a home this past year, a review of your mortgage settlement statement may be required to ensure proper tax treatment of the cost of your points.

• Mortgage insurance premiums are not deductible. If you pay mortgage insurance, your mortgage insurance premiums are not deductible. This on again, off again deduction is now in the off position.

With the rise in interest rates over the past several years, more taxpayers will be itemizing their deductions due to mortgage interest. So for each Form 1098 you receive, make a note on the form to explain what the loan is for to ensure a proper deduction.

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 973-633-1001.

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

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

Friday, April 5, 2024: Wish (2023) PG 1 hour 35 minutes

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: 973-838-3262. This program is free. Come join us at

Butler Library Events for Children

the Butler Library with Cory and Ms. Kim and practice reading aloud when you can read a story to Cory.

Indoor KIDS LEARN TO RIDE at St. Anthony’s Church Gymnasium

Sponsored by Avenues of Motion

Address: St. Anthony’s Gym 57 Bartholdi Ave.

ENTER ON HASBROUCK

AVENUE AT THE Double RED DOORS

Ms. Arlene and Ms. Jennifer will be at St. Anthony’s during the program.

When: Wednesday, April 3

Ages: Ages 5-13

Bring a bike and helmet Sign Up for one of these sessions. Parents are required to remain for the program.

Session 1: 9am-10:30am

(Limit 10 Children) Arrival time: 8:45am Register for Session 1 using this GOO-

GLE FORM

Session 2: 10:30am-12pm

(Limit 10 Children) Register for Session 2 using this GOOGLE FORM

Learning to ride a bike is a rite of passage that provides a sense of accomplishment in learning a new, profound skill! This 1 ½ hour class teaches the safe and effective “balance first” method. Our certified Bike Right® instructors will remove the bike’s pedals and teach balance and control above all else. Your child will learn the basics of starting, stopping, steering, proper bike/helmet fit and adjustment. We support various learning styles and will give your child the tools they need to build confidence on two wheels. Each child needs to be registered separately 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.

S.T.E.A.M. Paint Your Own Stepping Stone

When: Saturday, April 6 Register on Google Forms or visit the Library to register.

Time: 11:00 – 11:45am

Ages: 5 – 11 yrs. Choose either a turtle or a flower 7 inch Stepping Stone. All supplies are provided by the library. 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.

Toddler Time

Thursdays at 10:30am

April 25 – June 20

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. 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

Healthy Snacks Program

Held at the Butler Library

Sponsored by Shop Rite

West Milford: Registered

Dietitian: Lauren

When: Saturday, April 27

Time: 11:00 – 11:30am

Ages: 3 – 10 Years

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

This free program is presented by the dietician from Shop Rite of West

Milford and will be held in the Children’s Room at the Butler Library. Join Registered Dietitian Lauren in learning about nutritious foods and joining the “two bite club!” Kids will get to sample healthy snacks through a fun interactive event where participants make their own treats. This free program is limited to 15 students. Each child needs to be registered separately 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.

S.T.E.M. Introduction to Speed Cup Stacking with Ms. Arlene

When: Monday, May 6

Time: 4:00 – 4:45am

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 on GOOGLE Forms if you are interested in this one day cup stacking class to learn Step 1: Three stack and 6 stack. (3-3-3) 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.

S.T.E.A.M. Mason Jar Flower Arrangement

When: Saturday, May 11

Time: 11:00 – 11:45 PM

Ages: 4 – 10 years

Join Ms. Arlene and assmble a beautiful flower ar-

rangment. 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.

Ceramic Surprise

When: Monday, May 13

Time: 4:00 – 4:45 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 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

Adult Programs at Butler Public Library

Family Movie Nights

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, April 5: Wish (2023) PG 1 hour 35 minutes

A near Total Solar Eclipse is coming to the northeast and we are prepared to give out Solar Eclipse Glasses to residents with proof of residency who sign up in advance on Google Forms. Limit two solar glasses per Butler family for the Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024. Patrons must be 18 and over.

Pick up: Come to the Butler Library to pick up the glasses: From March 20 –

April 6, 2024.

Apr 8, 2024 at 3:25 pm

This is the closest city to approximate the Near Total Eclipse viewing in Butler.

Max View in Paterson, New Jersey

Local Type: Partial Solar Eclipse in Paterson

Begins: Mon, Apr 8 at 2:10 pm

Maximum: Mon, Apr 8 at 3:25 pm

Ends: Mon, Apr 8 at 4:36 pm

Duration: 2 hours, 26 minutes

Virtual Adult Library Program Deer Management in Forests and Backyards

Zoom Presentation

Tuesday, April 9 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

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: 973-8383262.

Movies Dates:

April 30: The Holdovers

May 28: Next Goal WIns

June 25: Dream Scenario

cont. on page 38

Adult Programs at Butler Public Library

AARP Safe Driving Class

In-Person at Butler Public Library

Wednesday, May 29 12:00 pm – 6:30 pm

Presented by AARP Volunteers: Ted & Sarita Wilson

Refresh your driving skills with this class. You will learn: Safe driving techniques, proven safety strategies, new traffic laws & rules of the road. Plus, there are no tests to pass. Simply sign up and learn. Upon completion, you could receive a multi-year discount on your car insurance. Cost is $20 for AARP Members, $25 for non-members, on the day of the class, check or cash only. You must bring your Driver’s License and AARP card (latter if a member) with you to class to receive the certificate. This class is open to any driver of any age. A light snack will be provided, feel free to bring what you need. Call: 973838-3262, to sign up for this in-person classroom course. Pre-registration is required. Please NO Walk-Ins Allowed. For more information, please visit: www.aarp.org/drive.

Barbie – An American Icon

In-Person Adult Library Program

At Butler Public Library

Wednesday, June 12

6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Presented by Rick Feingold, Teacher of American Business History at Bergen Community College, MBA-Penn State University, History Degree-Rutgers University

In the 1950s children could only play with baby dolls. There were no adult dolls. Then Ruth Handler decided to invent a doll with adult features. The doll named Barbie was a “Teen-age Fashion model.” Barbie could be dressed in a variety of fashion outfits and she lived in a “Dreamhouse.” She had a boyfriend named Ken and drove a Corvette convertible. Barbie’s careers included doctor, astronaut, pilot and even a matador. Learn how the world’s most loved doll came to be.

This program is free of charge. Registration in advance is required by calling the Butler Library at: 973-838-3262, or stop by our Circulation Desk to sign up. Butler Public Library is located at 1 Ace Road, Butler, NJ 07405, by phone at 973-838-3262 or online at www.

butlerlibrary.org.

Psychic Medium Event

In-Person at Butler Public Library

Thursday, June 274 - From 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Presented by Bergen County NJ Author – RoseMarie Rubinetti Cappiello

Some things we will discuss: What is mediumship? How does it work? Who experiences mediumship? Signs from our loved ones. Dream visits from our loved ones. How to understand grief, the grief process and grieve well. This program is free of charge. Registration in advance is required by calling the Butler Library at: 973-838-3262, or stop by our Circulation Desk to sign up.

Butler Public Library

1 Ace Road

Butler, NJ 07405

973-838-3262

More information on our website: www.butlerlibrary.org

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