Hometown Life Z13 - August 2020

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Courtesty of the Butler Museum ake a walk down Carey Avenue in Butler and peek in the upper window of the fire station. A wooden fireman

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action, peers down at all passersby. Where did this figure come from and what is his significance?

Our story begins in Newark at the end of the 1800’s. The eight-foot tall wooden fireman was erected to stand guard at the top of the Fireman’s Insurance Company Building at Broad and Market streets, where he maintained his post for forty years. The building was torn down early in the new century and the Fireman was removed by Newark Salvage Corps on May 7, 1909. After removal our brave friend was up for grabs. The Butler Fire Department was interested, as was an outfit in Bloomfield. John Williams, a Butler volunteer fireman, was instrumental in obtaining this prize.

Butler was finally granted permission to relocate this iconic statue and two brave volunteers, Williams and John Spellman, traveled by horse and wagon to

Newark to accomplish the task. Unfortunately, on the way home disaster struck.

The Bloomfield Boys, who felt that they were more deserving of the prize, attempted to ambush the Butler volunteers and steal the statue. Butler foiled the plot and, after a skirmish, successfully delivered the statue home to the town where he has resided for over one-hundred years.

Unfortunately, during

the relocation process our brave fireman lost his left leg. Some say it was during the company’s demolition, while others claim that he was amputated during the attempted robbery and the accompanying fracas. No witnesses are still with us to clarify the truth behind the missing limb and stories have circulated with both scenarios. All we are left with is speculation and conflicting reports.

What we do know is that a new leg was constructed and attached by August Mayer. Unfortunately, the leg that Mayer supplied was right, while the missing appendage was left.

For a century our wooden friend has stood stoically on watch at the Butler Firehouse with two right legs.

As the legend has it, this is one case where two rights made one wrong.

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By Steve Sears or Michael Hartman, first-time Mayor in the city of Butler, Indiana, year number one has been challenging. “I knew it was going to be busy, owning two businesses anyway, but I’m the type of person that doesn’t complain too much, and if I do complain too much, I jump in and do something about it. That’s what kind of got me involved (with running for mayor).”

Hartman was involved in what was believed to be the city’s first Republican primary featuring three candidates, and he ran unopposed in the November 2019 election for Mayor. He has been a Butler resident since 1977 and is a 1984 graduate of Eastside High School. He owns the NAPA Auto Parts store in the city and has owned a neighboring town auto body shop since 1982.

The city of 2,700 people, almost 5,000 people less than Butler in Morris County, has a few upcoming, unofficial anniversaries. Founded in 1841, it will be 170 years old in 2021, and Butler was incorporated

as a town 125 years ago in 1866. It became a city in 1903.

Butler, New Jersey also has a history. It was incorporated as a borough on March 13, 1901, and is named after Richard Butler, who had assumed ownership of the location’s Hard Rubber Company 20 years earlier. Butler, Indiana may have been named after pioneer David Butler.

Unlike the Hometown News area Butler, where drivers must ascend steep Route 23 and drive down into the main part of town via Bartholdi Avenue, the midwestern sister city is a flat land, U.S. Highways 1 and 6 crossing in the main center of town. Industry, some of them mainstays, are big in the city, and the Downtown Butler Historic District was named in 2001 to the National Register of Historic Places.

Butler, which is located in DeKalb County, is trying to revive that downtown. “We have about 10 businesses in town, to be honest with you,” says Hartman. “We have several downtown buildings that are vacant at this point, but I think we are procontinued on page 9

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Opinions

A VIEW FROM THE LEFT

When Mob Mentality and Moral Suasion Meet the Markets

EDITORIAL &

A

ttention readers: Mark Shields is off this week. Please enjoy this column by Veronique de Rugy.

A wave of hasty firings is sweeping across the country, driven by demands from what some call the “cancel culture.”

The New York Times editorial page editor James Bennett ran an op-ed from Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., that displeased the paper’s readers and some colleagues, so he lost his job. The chief curator at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Gary Garrels, lost his job, too, after he was accused of being a racist for saying he would still collect art from white men.

But the list of those who lost their jobs is much longer, and the rationale is sometimes as stunningly weak as someone liking the wrong tweet.

As a result, fear has gripped many workers: Any day, any worker can be fired for simply angering a Twitter mob. Meanwhile, employers are left wondering how they should react when one of their employees becomes a target.

Every case is different, and employers should be able to dismiss workers. “Employment at will” remains the best labor policy. However, one piece of wisdom is worth following: During scary, emotional or angry times, don’t act hastily. Slow down.

There is value in not making rash decisions during stressful times. Mental health professionals often advise grieving families to not make any life-altering decisions for a solid year after the death of a loved one. In daily life, some common advice for those about to send a nasty email or text is, “Sleep on it.”

Acting out of anger is not uncommon.

Mark Twain, for instance, noted, “Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured.” Aristotle observed, “Anybody can become angry -- that is easy -- but to be angry with the right person and to the right degree and at the right time and for the right purpose and in the right way -- that is not within everybody’s power and is not easy.”

This rule of not acting out of passion is central to our political system. James

Mark Shields Madison, in “Federalist No. 10,” warns of impetuous mobs or factions “united and actuated by some common impulse of passion, or of interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens, or to the permanent and aggregate interests of the community.” As such, Madison and the Constitution’s other architects created a system of governance that discourages fast, immediate action and gratification.

The built-in slowdown requirement enshrined in the Constitution is also present in our legal system. Due process means that no stage of legal proceedings can be dispensed with, preventing government from acting too hastily.

Today, the wisdom that inspires our constitutional system and many other fields could help private firms when responding to the demands of an impetuous mob. Imagine if employers adopted the public position to wait, let’s say two weeks or so, when faced with demands that a worker be fired for some alleged claim. Such a policy would have a few advantages.

First, it would give the company time to determine if the accusations are well founded. It would also allow the company to assess the bigger impact of such a decision on other employees without excessive retaliation costs for not acting quickly enough.

Second, a waiting period would allow continued on page 6 100% MailedNewspaper Flanders, NJ 07836

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A VIEW FROM THE RIGHT

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Big-City Rioting is No Tea Party Protest

ew subjects more easily betray aggressive media bias than protests.

If you’re a conservative protester, you’re most likely to be ignored. The networks mostly ignored this year’s prayerful March for Life in January, even though President Donald Trump came in person, a historic first.

ABC anchor David Muir offered 15 seconds, saying: “The president taking the stage at the anti-abortion rights rally.

His administration today threatening to withhold federal funds from California for requiring private insurers to cover abortions. California’s governor dismissing the threat.”

If conservative protesters are not ignored, they’re most likely to be portrayed as a menace to polite society ... even when the protests are nonviolent.

Ten years ago, when the tea party assembled on Capitol Hill to oppose the passage of Obamacare as unconstitutional, “ugly” was the network term for the tone of the protests.

“Late word from Washington tonight about just how ugly the crowds gathered outside the Longworth Office Building have become,” warned David Muir on March 20, 2010. “We learned that as Congressman Emanuel Cleaver of Missouri was leaving his office, someone in the crowd spit on him. There are also reports of racial and homophobic slurs, one targeting Congressman John Lewis, the famous civil rights champion, and the other involving Congressman Barney Frank. You can listen in for yourself.”

But Cleaver’s claim and the N-word being yelled at Lewis were never proven. Andrew Breitbart pledged to give $100,000 to the United Negro College Fund if anyone could prove the slurs, and no one had the goods.

Over at CBS, anchor Bob Schieffer doubled down saying that “a yearlong debate that’s been rancorous and mean from the start turned even nastier yesterday.”

Let’s repeat: These “nasty” right-wingers were accused of saying mean words.

There was no looting, rioting, burning, vandalism or violence. No one’s life or

Tim Graham limbs were in danger.

Fast-forward 10 years to 2020.

Left-wingers in Portland and other cities are tearing things down, burning things up and throwing projectiles at police.

Hundreds of officers are being injured.

Several have potentially suffered permanent eye damage from high-powered lasers.

But the protesters and rioters are now on the left, so the weasel words and the euphemisms flow. Reporters mumble about “mostly peaceful” protests.

None of these “objective” referees measure the tone of the left as possibly “rancorous” and “mean” and “nasty.” When you’re protesting police officers and federal security guards, there’s no need to offer dignified discourse.

Compare David Muir in 2010 to David Muir on July 27. He said: “Now to those protests turning violent. Demonstrators squaring off with federal officers in Portland, Oregon. Protests over racial injustice intensifying. Local leaders say the federal presence is only fueling this.”

Muir and his colleagues have a real chicken-or-the-egg problem here. Federal security officers arrived to defend federal property under attack from violent leftists. How is it that ABC is suddenly trying to sound “fair and balanced” when it comes to “local leaders” attempting to destroy a federal building, something we continued on page 6

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Mob Mentality and Moral Suasion... continued from page 4 heads to level and passions to cool. In the age of instantaneous news, the mob might become distracted by other events, allowing a company to assess the situation without the constant pressure. At the end of the waiting period, if the employer decides it still needs to let the employee go, it will have had time to develop an argument for why it’s making that decision as opposed to the contradicting messaging that has surrounded many of the recent firings.

There’s a larger issue here, one that we libertarians pay too little attention to: What is the proper role of moral suasion on commerce? If there is no role, then the state,

with its formal law, becomes the only constraint other than market competition. If there is a role, as Aristotle hinted, then let’s be sure to do it right.

For now, however, it’s easy to see the benefits for all involved if firms start waiting a little before dismissing employees under public pressure.

Veronique de Rugy is a senior research fellow at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. To find out more about Veronique de Rugy and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2020 CREATORS.COM

Big-City Rioting... continued from page 4 all fund with our taxes?

ABC’s Twitter account sounded even worse when leftists erupted in Oakland: “Protesters in California set fire to a courthouse, damaged a police station and assaulted officers after a peaceful demonstration intensified.” If someone were to punch David Muir in the face, would it be considered a “peaceful demonstration intensified”?

This double standard underscores what we have long known. The media offer no reward for conservatives and Republicans being nice and polite. These manufactur-

ers of “news” have the audacity to present themselves daily as the trustworthy referees of our democracy. But they seek to prevent any damage as the left unleashes vicious invective and violence.

Tim Graham is director of media analysis at the Media Research Center and executive editor of the blog NewsBusters.org. To find out more about Tim Graham, and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2020 CREATORS.COM

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What to Know About Sharing a Bed with Pets

the past, MRSA skin infections and H1N1 influenza ets provide companionship for thousands have been transferred from pets to people. of people around the world, so it is unPro: Pets are warm. If the goal is to get cozy derstandable that pet owners want to be under the covers, animals can provide a little exaround their companion animals as much as postra warmth, as their body temperatures run a few sible - with many even welcoming them into their degrees warmer than their owners’. beds.

Con: An extra body in bed can disturb sleep.

According to PetMd, an online animal healthJust as individuals may have trouble with a spouse care resource, around 80 percent of pet owners or a child being in the bed next to them, pets can allow pets to share beds with human family membring about the same disturbances. In a study bers. Data from the American Pet Products Associfrom the Mayo Clinic Sleep Disorders Center, 53% ation has found at least half of all pet parents allow of pet owners surveyed said their pets disturbed pets to sleep with them every night. Whether this their sleep in some way each night. Dogs that is safe, healthy, or wise is a matter of debate. snore and cats that chase “prey” around the room There are pros and cons to sharing a bed with can disturb their owners’ sleep. pets. Understanding those pros and cons can help Pro: A deeper connection forms between pet pet owners make more informed decisions. and owner. Many pets like to be around their Pro: Get into a relaxed state. Companion aniowners because it gives them reassurance and mals can help relieve stress, which may translate into better sleep for their owners. Some people find that the rhythmic breathing of dogs or 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 cats can help lull them to sleep.

Con: Possible transmission of illness or zoonotic agents. Snuggling so close to a pet may owners. continued on page 9 put people at risk of acquiring illnesses that are transmitted from animal to human. In

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Sisters Cities... continued from page 3 gressing. Two of our buildings have been bought in the past 30 days, so we’re seeing a little bit of movement.”

Regarding business, Hartman says the city is very heavily into manufacturing. “I don’t know if you’ve heard of Steel Dynamics, a world-renowned steel mill. It was built back in the 90s and they just picked little bitty old Butler and they

put up a massive steel mill complex, and they’ve had a lot of factories come in and feed off of them.”

The railroad system has always figured prominently in both towns. In 1871, the New Jersey Midland Railroad extended track for freight and passenger through Butler, New Jersey, and until 1966 the northern part of the New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway's passenger

Sharing a Bed with Pets... continued from page 8 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.

service was located in Butler. Freight still travels through Butler, New Jersey, and in Butler, Indiana, the railroad runs through just about the center and south western portions of the city.

Hartman is quick to mention the parks in Butler, seven to be exact, and children in town attend one of three schools, Butler or Riverdale Elementary, and Eastside Junior-Senior High School. “Our school systems are outstanding. In fact, our school districts now, instead of doing eLearning eLearning doesn’t seem the way to go any more – were going to do remote learning.

They bought this thing called SwivL, basically a computer screen on somewhat of a robot, and turns 360 degrees and follows the teacher around so the kids are going to have to sign onto the computer just like if they were sitting in the classroom. They

can interact with the teacher, hear the other students ask questions, so they’re going to be actually in a live classroom.”

“The school system, is kind of leading the way around here in technology, and kind of working through this.”

Butler, Indiana has been a busy place. In addition to Hartman’s inaugural 7 months, come the end of August, 4 out of 5 of city council members will be brand new, a new a police chief and a new code enforcement officer were appointed in May, and a new street superintendent came on board in January. “And we lost our GIS Coordinator,” says Hartman. “Yeah, these first 7 months - and if you throw COVID on top of that - it’s been very challenging.”

Want to learn more about what’s going on in Butler, Indiana? Visit www.butler.in.us.

What’s happening in your school or organization?

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ith summertime activities in full swing, tax planning is probably not on the top of your to-do list. But putting it off creates a problem at the end of the year when there’s little time for changes to take effect. If you take the time to plan now, you’ll have six months for your actions to make a difference on your 2019 tax return. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Know your upcoming tax breaks. Pull out your 2018 tax return and take a look at your income, deductions and credits. Ask yourself whether all these breaks will be available again this year. For example:Any changes to your tax situation will make planning now much more important.

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Adjust your retirement plan contributions. Are you still making contributions based on last year’s limits?

Maximum savings amounts

increase for retirement plans in 2019. You can contribute up to $13,000 to a SIMPLE IRA, up to $19,000 to a 401(k) and up to $6,000 to a traditional or Roth IRA. Remember to add catch-up contributions if you’ll be 50 by the end of December!

Plan for upcoming college expenses. With the school year around the corner, understanding the var-

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Add 529 college savings plans, and you quickly realize an educational tax strategy is best established early in the year.

Add some business to your summer vacation. If you own a business, you might be able to deduct some of your travel expenses as a business expense. To qualify, the primary reason for your trip must be business-related.

Keep detailed records of where and when you work, plus get receipts for all ordinary and necessary expenses!

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • August 2020 • Page 13

What Does an Unplanned Career Transition Mean for You?

he COVID-19 pandemic has unsettled the country’s employment picture for months and will likely continue to do so for a while. However, the nature and terminology of this disruption varies greatly among individuals – some have seen their jobs disappear, others have been “furloughed” and still others have been offered an early retirement. If you’re in this final group – those either offered, or feeling forced to accept, an early retirement, how should you respond?

Try to look at your situation holistically, rather than strictly in a short-term manner.

Consider these four areas: • Retirement – What does retirement really look like to you? Are you ready to fully retire or would you like to work part time? Are you confident that you can work somewhere else for a few years before retiring on your own terms? If you’re not certain you can work elsewhere, how can you adjust your desired retirement lifestyle – what you planned to do, where you hoped to live, etc. – to meet your new reality?

• Income – Just how financially affected you’ll be from an early retirement depends on several factors: how much you’ve already saved and invested, whether you’re

married and have a working spouse, whether you’ve paid off your mortgage, and so on. In any case, though, you’ll need to answer several questions, including these: Do I need to start taking withdrawals from my IRA and 401(k)? If so, how much can I afford to take out each year without running the risk of outliving my resources? Should I adjust my current investment mix? If I haven’t yet started collecting Social Security, should I do so now, or can I afford to wait until my monthly payments will be bigger?

Are there any other sources of income I can leverage? You may want to work with a financial professional to address these and other key income-related issues.

• Insurance – If you received health insurance through your employer, an early retirement could present you with a dilemma, especially if you’re not quite old enough for Medicare. You might be eligible for COBRA, which provides ex-employees and their dependents the option of continued health insurance for potentially up to 36 months, but this coverage can be expensive. As an alternative, you might be able to negotiate an extended severance package, which could provide you with health insurance for several months. Or, you might be able to get on the health insurance plan of

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• Legacy – Many people want to take care of their family while they’re alive – and leave something behind when they’re gone. If you take an early retirement, you might lose your employer’s group life insurance. Of course, if this plan was not sufficient, you may have already supplemented it with your own policy, but, if you haven’t, you may need to shop around for some coverage, particularly if you have children still at home. You also may want to take this opportunity to review your key financial accounts to make sure your beneficiary designations still accurately reflect your wishes.

Going through an unplanned career transition is certainly challenging. But looking closely at the four areas describe above, and making the appropriate moves, may help you reduce some of the stress and can put you in a better position to start the next phase of your life.

the mistakes made by average investors.

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Morris County’s Own Kevin Saum Gives Back Via Heads ‘N Tales Podcast

3

By Steve Sears 0-year-old Kevin Saum could’ve let the depression, the sadness, keep him down, but he didn’t. Instead, he found a way to give back, therefore enabling his life and the lives of others to move forward in inspiration.

“I like that you said TRANSITION, because unfortunately that is how most athletes view the end of their careers,” says Saum with emphasis. “I am a firm believer that they only way to get beyond the identity loss and depression is through action. Athletes need to stop looking at retirement as a transition and need to start looking at it as a transformation.”

Saum credits the above mindset to Vince Ruiz, who was a guest on Saum’s Hands ‘N Tales podcast (WHY IT'S A TRANSFORMATION, NOT A TRANSITION TO LIFE AFTER SPORTS, headsntales. org/blog/153). Saum started Heads ‘N Tales, a companion blog and podcast (but in truth so much more) after graduating from Georgetown with a master’s degree in sports industry management with hopes of raising concussion awareness and improving sports safety. “I personally got beyond it by starting the podcast and seeking answers and advice from people who have found success after retirement or are experts on the subject (taking action).”

The ”it” is the significant backstory to this, and therein lies a lesson as well. On October 5, 2007, Saum suffered a traumatic brain injury called Second Impact Syndrome (SIS) during a West Morris Central High School football game. After experiencing severe headaches and not fully recovering from an initial concussion, Saum hid his symptoms from his coaches and the school's athletic trainer and again ventured out onto the playing field to engage the game he loved. After a second impact and collapsing into a grand mal seizure on the field in full view of the frightened spectators, Saum was air lifted to the hospital. While there, he received an emergency craniotomy to relieve the pressure on his brain, which was due to swelling from the SIS and a subdural hematoma, when blood collects between the tissue layers surrounding the brain. In addition, he also suffered an infection and an allergic reaction post-hospitalization.

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Per the Heads ‘N Tales website, “SIS has a 50% mortality rate and nearly 100% morbidity rate,” but Saum is fortunate to have survived with full cognitive and physical abilities and be in good health. “I have interviewed a couple of other athletes who suffered the same injury and are also doing well. We are the minority in that regard.” Although it rendered him unable any longer to play football, Saum flipped the coin from loss and melancholy to positivity. He explains. “My intro to each podcast states, ‘You can’t always control what happens to you in sports or in life, but you can always control your response, this is my response after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a high school football game and I hope it leaves you feeling both inspired and informed.’”

It has. There are 156 episodes still (and will always be) available on Saum’s website and iTunes. Some of the interviewee player names may sound familiar: Shawn Springs, Kevin Turley, Eric LeGrand, just to name a few. And the platform is not limited to just athletes. Saum and his team have it all covered. “All of these episodes,” he says, “are athletes or sports health experts sharing their stories of perseverance or knowledge that I believe are timeless. With many athletes being forced to retire due to COVID-19, their experience is very similar to those who experience career ending injuries like mine. There are 156 examples on my website of how to persevere when life throws you a curve ball.”

Saum says the making of the podcasts was challenging, especially early on. “There was a huge learning curve to developing the podcast, but learning a new skill is the best medicine/catalyst for transformation!

I cringe listening to my first 20-30 interviews, but it is awesome to hear the transformation in my production, questions and listening skills from episode 1 to episode 156.”

Saum fully realizes his good fortune. “Amazingly I have no noticeable residual side effects from my injury today and I am extremely grateful for that, as most kids who suffer my injury are not as lucky.”

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • August 2020 • Page 15

Kids Ice Cancer Charity Hockey Game Gains Special Support

A

by Steve Sears ndrew Low, entering his junior year at Morristown-Beard High School, knows the pain of cancer.

In 2016, he lost his paternal grandparents just 6 months apart. Then, on Christmas morning, his 6-year-old German Shepherd lay down right under his Christmas tree and died of cancer.

“We had only just discovered she had been sick 5 days earlier,” Low says. “I knew from this experience how horrible cancer was, how it is so terrible for the patient and their families. I knew I wanted to do something to help but was unsure how.”

Low, who plays high school hockey, started to think about ways to pair his love of the game and helping those in need. In 2018, he organized a charity hockey game through his varsity hockey team and raised $14,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Based on this success, Low’s wheels turned. “I knew with me being able to raise $14,000, I thought if I had a whole team of 40 players, I could make something of it.”

Low, whose personal goal was to raise $100,000 for pediatric cancers during his high school years, set the bar for his sophomore year at $35,000, to bring his total to almost the halfway point. He then created Kids Ice Cancer. He bought the name, built his own website (www.kidsicecancer. com),created a logo, social media pages, and laid out his mission. “I knew there had to be more kids like me who wanted to help, to get involved in helping others, but were unsure how to start.” With Kids Ice Cancer, he organized an annual all-

star hockey game, the initial contest to be played March 27 at The American Dream.

“I invited 40 great hockey players to join the team and, at the start of the year in January, Kids Ice Cancer kicked off its fundraising, started to collect donations, and sold corporate sponsorships.”

“All the money we collect goes directly to The Valerie Fund,” Low says, also stating that his visit to the Valerie Fund in Goryeb Children's Hospital at Morristown Medical Center (www. thevaleriefund.org/morristown-medical-center) in August 2019 was really life changing for him. “When I was there and I saw the children doing treatments, it really touched me and it made me more motivated to make sure I did the best job I possibly could do to help these kids who need it the most. It touches the heart, it really does.”

“Andrew had typed up a commitment letter that the players would sign and agree to come to the practice, play in the game, and raise money for the Valerie Fund,” says Wendy Low, Andrew’s Mom. “There was a kickoff meeting in January, and the fundraising was only supposed to be for

three months.”

“What I underestimated was just how powerful it was with 40 individual people on the team each raising money,” said Low, “and we quickly surpassed our goal.”

Kids Ice Cancer upped their bar to $125,000 and were just over $120,000 when the pandemic hit. “We had to basically shut everything down,” said Low. “We halted all fundraising too; we did not feel that it was appropriate to ask for money during this difficult time.”

And American Dream, where the game was to be held, was also shuttered.

“The team was excited and proud of what we accomplished. We are currently at $122,167, so close! We are definitely trying to make the push to get to our goal of $125,000. That would be amazing.”

The postponed March game has been rescheduled for August 21. Kevin Fox, the Grassroots Manager for the New Jersey Devils, saw an article about Low in the June/July issue of USA Hockey Magazine and reached out, kindly suggesting and providing a new location for the game.

“Since we did not have any idea when American Dream continued on page 18

Page 16 • August 2020 • Hometown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

A

Comfort Food Consumption on the Rise

s families spend more time at home, Americans are finding comfort in a surprising source: bread. In fact, a 20-year trend of declining grain food consumption has been reversed.

A national study by the Grain Food Foundation suggests that the turnaround is more than a one-time sales blip due to pantry loading. In reality, consumers count bread among their top comfort foods. The study revealed one-third of Americans named pasta and bread as foods that are comforting during a stressful time.

In addition to the comforting flavor, this trend provides valuable nutritional benefits. As a part of many healthy eating plans, bread and pasta are nutritionist approved and provide nutrients needed for healthy aging such as B vitamins, magnesium, selenium, iron, folate and fiber.

“For years, we’ve been telling consumers that grain foods are the foods we love that love us back,” said Christine Cochran, executive director of the Grain Foods Foun-

dation. “The stress has given us permission to enjoy bread and pasta again, but unlike most comfort foods, consumers recognize that grains have nutritional value.”

The highest-ranking comfort foods were ice cream; baked goods like cakes, cookies and pastries; salty snacks; candy; and fast food. However, when asked to identify comfort foods with nutritional advantages, consumers identified bread and pasta as the top two.

“We can all rest assured that there is enough supply of grain food products in this country,” Cochran said. “Shoppers may be experiencing some sporadic unavailability of certain high-demand items. However, manufacturers are working closely with retailers to make sure that out-of-stocks are short lived. Consumers will be able to buy their favorite grain-food products and eat them, too.”

To learn more about the role of grain foods in a healthful diet, visit GrainFoodscontinued on page 17

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Comfort Food... continued from page 16 Foundation.org.

Rotini with Sausage and Mushrooms Recipe courtesy of Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, on behalf of the Grain Foods Foundation Prep time: 18 minutes Servings: 8 1 box (13 1/4 ounces) whole-grain rotini 1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced 1 cup leeks, thinly sliced 1 cup green onions, thinly sliced 2 cups mushrooms, sliced 1 cup chicken stock 1/4 cup parsley chopped 6 leaves from tarragon sprigs, chopped 1 cup Romano cheese grated Parmesan-Romano cheese (optional) Prepare rotini according to package directions. Drain and transfer to large bowl.

In large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Cook sausage 2-3 minutes, or until well browned. Add leeks, onions and mushrooms; cook until tender. Add chicken stock and simmer 3-5 minutes, or until hot. Fold sausage mixture into warm pasta. Add parsley, tarragon and Romano cheese;

toss again. Top with Parmesan-Romano cheese, if desired.

Cheesy Black Bean Toast with Pico de Gallo Recipe courtesy of Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, on behalf of the Grain Foods Foundation Prep time: 15 minutes Servings: 4 6 Roma tomatoes, diced 1⁄2 medium onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, finely minced 2 serrano or jalapeno peppers, finely chopped 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 1 lime, juice only 1⁄8 teaspoon oregano, finely crushed 1⁄8 teaspoon salt (optional) 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper 1⁄2 Hass avocado, diced 4 bolillos (6 inches) or large Kaiser rolls, sliced in half lengthwise 1 can (16 ounces) seasoned low-fat refried black beans 2 cups shredded Chihuahua or mozzarella cheese Heat oven to 350 F. In medium mixing bowl, combine tomatoes; onion; garlic; peppers; cilantro; lime juice; oregano; salt, if desired; pepper; and avocado; set aside.

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Page 18 • August 2020 • Hometown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Kinnelon High School Hockey Program Enters Tri-Op Merger ty, or varsity. Having competition in house makes everyone better.”

The merger suggestion and ultimate opportunity had been in Kinnelon’s thoughts for the past few years as numbers declined on their hockey team. “We’ve been a proud program,” says Rosenberg, “and kind of wanted to be fiercely independent as long as we could. But just seeing the numbers going down we knew that we had to make the move coming into this year.

We were afraid that we might have been able to survive for maybe one more year but probably wouldn’t be able to survive for two.”

Kinnelon finished up the 2019-20 season with 18 players, graduating 8. This

T

By Steve Sears he Kinnelon High School Colts hockey team will in the 2020-21 season begin a two-year tri-op merger approved by the NJSIAA, joining forces with the Sparta-Jefferson ice hockey programs.

The agreement will be revisited after two years. There is potential with approval from the state to extend to four years should all three schools elect to do so.

Jeff Myhren, who was the coach of the Kinnelon club – while, ironically enough, also living in Sparta and being an alumnus of Jefferson High School – will continue to coach the team, which will play all of its home games at Skylands Ice World in Stockholm, the home ice for both clubs prior to the agreement.

“It was just a nice coincidence, having ties to all three schools makes it fun and a little easier transition,” says Myhren of his relationship to all three schools involved.

“All three schools had low numbers playing hockey, playing in the same conference, and practicing at the same rink are the

main reasons it worked.”

Myhren credits Kinnelon Athletic Director Scott Rosenberg with getting the merger accomplished. “Scott really got the ball rolling on this by reaching out to other Athletic Directors who had dwindling numbers. He wanted control of the program and made it happen. He always has his players and coaches’ best interest in mind.” Kinnelon will be the lead school in the merger.

Myhren explains how the merger helps the players from Kinnelon, from a schedule, competition, and safety standpoint.

“The tri-op helps all of the athletes from a competitive standpoint and safety standpoint by having them play at the appropriate level. We didn’t have a junior varsity team and players that weren’t ready for varsity competition were being placed at a level they weren’t ready for. There is a big difference between a 14-year-old freshman and an 18-year-old man. Now everyone will be able to compete for spots and play at the appropriate level, junior varsi-

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year’s total would number 13 or 14. There were also some newer players coming out to learn and play the game, but they most likely would be JV team possibilities.

Therefore, from a numbers’ perspective, the tri-op merger was a winning move.

“We’re very excited about it,” says Rosenberg. “I think every school would love to be on their own as much as possible and not give up some of the history of a program. But the goal here is to combine all three schools, get the numbers up in each individual school, so that at some point all of us can be back in our own programs.”

Kids Ice...

continued from page 15 might reopen, we decided to accept their generous offer to provide us with a venue to hold our all-star game and conclude this year’s fundraiser.” The game will hopefully be held Friday August 21 from 7:00-10:00 P.M. at the Devils’ practice facility, RWJ Barnabas Health Hockey House in Newark.

If postponed again, it will be held some-

time in the future.

“What matters most is the great work our Kids Ice Cancer team did raising money for the kids that need it the most,” says Low. For the future, Low would love to continue with the Valerie Fund, and use Kids Ice Cancer as a platform for other children’s cancer charities in the United States.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • August 2020 • Page 19

Recalling a Few of Babe Ruth’s Visits to Our Area

M

By Steve Sears ajor League Baseball’s Sultan of Swat, the Bambino, Babe Ruth, may have spent a lot of time at “The House that Ruth Built,” the original Yankee Stadium, but he also traveled often into the Garden State during his playing and post-playing career, and in his declining days.

Ruth was known to frequent Donahue’s Restaurant in Wayne, along the old traffic circle in the Singac area. Bill Hurtt, now 75 and living in Florida, was raised near the restaurant with his brother, John.

“My brother knew him,” says Hurtt. “He was born in 1920 and I was born in 1935. They used to cut school and go see the Yankees (at Yankee Stadium) – sit out in the bleachers,” he says with a laugh.

John Hurtt was 14 years old and a busboy when Ruth, in Bill’s words, would “hang out” at the eatery. Called “Jack” by his family and friends, Ruth would refer to John as “Jackie Boy.” “It was him (Ruth) and a few Yankees,” says Hurtt. “Babe Ruth had the run of the place. He was friends with Jimmy Donahue, the owner, and the Babe used to go right into the kitchen, make his own sandwiches, and he’d eat in the kitchen with the help.”

Hurtt humorously recalls one story his brother told him. “There was a party, and Ruth called ‘Jackie Boy’ over and said, ‘Get us a tray with water.’ My brother comes back with a tray filled with an inch of water, all slopping around (in the tray)! Everybody roared. Ruth meant a tray filled with glasses of water. They made a big thing about that.”

Perhaps Ruth’s most notable area appearance was in 1942, when he presented the

Riverdale School baseball team with new baseball uniforms and equipment. “He often stayed at Bert Lamb's Hunters Inn on the corner of Hamburg Turnpike and Newark Pompton Turnpike and got to know the Riverdale kids,” says Tom Riley, an area historian. Riley also says the Ruth even hopped behind the Hunter’s Inn bar and served locals.

“My brother used to tell me Ruth was a monster, a big hunk of a man,” says Hurtt. Ruth, who died on August 16, 1948, was in the mid-1940s no longer the “hunk of a man” he once was, he starting to show signs of his bout with cancer. But, he had enough of the Babe left in him to make his last, colossal hitting show in Bloomingdale in the summer of 1946.

“Yes, Babe made many appearances in our area.

The difference is ‘at bat’. On July 18, 1946 he actually put on a hitting exhibition at DeLazier Field,” says Riley. Russ Van Atta, a friend of the Babe and a former Yankee pitcher, tossed balls over the plate and Ruth clobbered them. “It's one thing to appear on stage, or wave to the crowd from a car, it's another thing to hit rockets over the houses (on Park Avenue) in right field like he did at DeLazier,” adds Riley.

Ruth was among 1,467 fans – two times the normal games attendance - that were present that day at the game between the Bloomingdale Troopers and Carbondale Pioneers.

Afterwards, a table was placed behind home plate, and he further excited the kids in the throng by signing autographs.

Bill Hurtt puts it best. “He was king at the time in the Metropolitan area.”

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Long Valley Author Pens Fangirl Memoir

F

By Steve Sears or the soon-to-be 29-year-old Megan Roche, writing her own book and seeing it published wasn’t a specific goal she wanted to attain by age 30.

But then, COVID-19 and being quarantined happened. “Being at home, I really didn’t want to sit around and do nothing; I wanted to channel my energy into something that was different,” says the 28 year old. What she now finds “crazy” is, looking back at the original outline, it was at the most 9 chapters. However, once she took off on the project, putting fingertips to computer keyboard, the number of chapters ballooned to 19. “That was pretty cool.”

What started out as a suggested, fun project by a friend became the 122-page Forever Her Girl: The Stories & Experiences of a Major Fangirl. Roche’s first full book details her discovery of, first meeting with, and subsequent close friendship with pop star singer and dancer, Paula Abdul.

Roche, in her 13 years of being an Abdul fangirl, has attended 30 of the performer’s concerts, has taken part in podcasts with Abdul, written articles about her – an iPain Magazine cover feature garnered Roche a 2019 an International Pain Foundation Hero of Hope Award - and much more.

The before mentioned speaks to the author’s eager, persevering persona, the aggressive project itself grasped by a writer who enjoys creativity and being in that mindset – in addition to avoiding the recent negativity. Roche says, “This book project was a way to escape all the negativity that was going on, all the craziness, all the news ‘of this’ and ‘of that.’” It was a way to shut everything off and focus on and write about a topic she loves and is passionate about. “I needed that escape, and I think a lot of people need that creative escape right now.” It also enabled her to keep her writing skills sharp in what for others was down time. “For me, especially during the quarantine, I didn’t want to get lazy and out of the groove of writing. I find that

when I do something for a certain amount of time, and then (after a long break) I have to go back into it, it’s very, very hard.” The familiar topic, as well, was a strong seed to sow. “I was excited I got to write about a subject that is so important to me, and honestly, the feedback that I’ve gotten from people who have gotten copies of the book has been overwhelmingly positive.

I’ve actually gotten messages from people I went to high school who are apologizing to me. I’m like, ‘Why are you apologizing?’ And they were apologizing for poking fun, never understanding it, and for passing judgement. I think a lot of good came out of it. People can kind of take a step back and understand me as a person. And I’m sure,” she adds with a laugh, “that the fact we’re all 10 years older now is important.”

15-year-old Megan Roche met Abdul for the first time on Monday, March 19, 2007. She and her dad endured a cold, snowy day, driving to New York City hoping to glimpse the star. Begging her dad by saying, “Dad please, I’ll do anything to go. Anything,” the words elbowed the elder Roche to take the day off, but he made no promises that the meeting would actually take place.

Roche eventually received a hug from her hero, cried when Abdul penned an autograph on her Cardio Dance DVD, and digital photos were taken. “I knew after about two years of following her career that I wanted to get the opportunity to meet her, and I look back now, and I honestly thought that that one day in March was probably going to be the only time I had a shot, and the only time anybody was willing to take me – I mean, I was 15, I couldn’t drive, and my parents were like, ‘Well, you’re not going into Manhattan by yourself. You’re crazy, you’re 15-years-old’ – so it was special.”

Beyond her singing career, Abdul means more to Roche, much more. “One thing for me especially, which I touch on in the book, is for boys and girls, as a young teen, you’re very impressionable,” she says. “The only thing that matters at that age continued on page 21

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Long Valley Author... continued from page 20 is fitting in and being accepted. One thing I’ve always respected about her and our relationship and the friendship that we have is that she’s never once made me feel like an outsider, she’s always embraced me and my antics, she’s never turned her back on me at any point. You know, you hear a lot of horror stories about when people meet their childhood idol. ‘Oh my God, they were so not what I wanted.’ I’ve always felt like Paula’s cared about me, and she has proven it through the years, time and time again.”

Roche also points out that Abdul has proven that you can keep coming back from adversity. Just one or any number of failures doesn’t signal career’s end. “I think that’s so important, especially at the age that I found her, to understand that it’s okay to make mistakes, it’s okay to reinvent yourself, and you don’t have to conform to societal norms, you don’t have to do what everyone else is doing. You can be different, and I’ve always appreciated the fact that she was open and honest about that.”

For Roche, who previously contributed to Denville’s Heroes, an offering of reflections from the area’s veterans of war, working on a book project was not unchartered territory. However, compared to that initial effort, this was growth by “leaps and bounds.” “I do feel that way,” agrees Roche. “The veterans’

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • August 2020 • Page 21

book was a great experience, because I got to hone my interview skills and my interpersonal skills with that. This book was more so talking about myself, and it was easy to write from the perspective that it’s a subject that I’m very passionate about, but I also had to be very choosey, because if I did put every encounter that Paula and I had ever had in that book, it would probably be about the size of a bible.” She chuckles, then continues. “It would’ve been a coffee table book, for sure.”

Roche had fun with Forever Her Girl: The Stories & Experiences of a Major Fangirl, and although she was undecided throughout whether or not to publish it, she did so, and for an important reason. “I want other fangirls who pick it up in 10 years, I want them to know they are normal and their feelings are valid. I’m very lucky that my family always understood it. They let me do my thing. There’s a lot of people who are not as fortunate, and whose parents are like, ‘Oh my God, what is mentally wrong with you?

You’re crazy!’ I want them to see it’s really not like that. I’ve learned so much through the past 15 years that other people’s opinions of you don’t matter, and you should never let people tell you how to live your life.”

Roche is sure there will be another book in her future, and she hints at some details.

“I’ve been contemplating writing a book for kids who are going into the world of journalism,” she explains. “I know for me, I would’ve loved to have had a kind of a handbook per se for the first two years out of college, for what to look for and what to do, and how to get started. If I can help someone else, then that would be cool, too.”

As sure as Roche is that many who read the book will learn more about her, she also states that she learned more about herself through the process. “I think one thing that I’ve learned from the feedback that I’ve gotten from other people who have read it is that I have a very loyal friend group. I have a lot of people who are in my corner, and I don’t necessarily see that sometimes. That’s one thing, and I think for me, too, I learned that I could take on something of this magnitude and put it together and put it out there.

I mean, I was just impressed that I wrote 30,000 words, and I do feel like at times I rambled on a bit, but just to be able to see it and hold it was nothing short of incredible. I remember when the FedEx box came in the mail with all of them (books), and I remember bringing it up to my room and sliced it open, and I opened the box and I saw them with the shiny cover and all the pictures – it was like an overwhelming feeling of, ‘Wow! I actually accomplished this!’”

Every time she’s in New York City, Roche

reflects about the first meeting with Abdul.

“I walk up there, I walk past that little side door where that moment happened, and I kind of take a minute to just be grateful, because I know I have a lot of friends – a lot of international friends – who I know will probably never get a chance to do what I have done,” she says. “That date, (March 19) every year, I post about that day at the exact time I got to meet her. All of my friends poke fun at it still, but only a handful of them actually know what that feeling is like: to stand in front of a person you admire, and actually have them want to carry on a conversation with you.”

Will Paula Abdul get a copy of Forever Her Girl: The Stories & Experiences of a Major Fangirl? Absolutely, but in a special way.

“I’m saving that for the next time that I see her,” says Roche. “I want to give her a copy personally, I want to be the one to actually hand it to her and explain to her what it is.

This book is my gift of gratitude to her and I feel like for me that’s something very personal that I want to share with her.”

If interested in receiving a copy of Forever Her Girl: The Stories & Experiences of a Major Fangirl, Roche can be contacted at Megan.Roche13@gmail.com.

Page 22 • August 2020 • Hometown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

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Mom Goes All IfHackettstown you are a business owner

By Meganand Roche you read and I used to give them just much for her. this ad,

lisha Dante water. I had wondered why I “In like three weeks, I Wehrenberg is doing was being so conscious with had dozens of orders. With all she can to help them, but never with myself. the demands of working 40change the cleaning product I didn’t want to give them 50 hours a week, plus keepindustry, starting small by chemicals but then I realized ing up with my three sons’ making a difference in her I shouldn’t be spraying them schedules, I had to close my own community. The single on things that they were Etsy shop. I had to also find mom from Hackettstown crawling on and I shouldn’t unique ways to ship prodbegan making her own really be breathing them in ucts since I use so many escleaners to protect her either.” Wehrenberg said. sential oils and there were kids and to make her home From those gifts,

By Jillian Risberg Review and Prototyping tionally little enriching programjust so many requirements tudents Passaic Challenge, Honey innovative involves having a culi-that I started selling them filled withat less chemicals.

BeethatNaturals was County after Technical solutions toborn. problems nary challenge every year. more local.” Wehrenberg However, she started Wehrenberg started Institute (PCTI) got a encountered by astronauts “It is nice to see the stumaking her own products her business with a simple said. taste space fromthem NASA out at the as International Spacecleaner dents putand their from heart and andof passed window When she was working astronauts themselves Station (ISS). soul into this project begifts to family members, her there has branched out to at a local women’s wellness when they hosted the Since 2016 they have cause I think they all wantaunts, sister, cousins, and NASA Hunch Critical Design participated inbathroom this educa- cleaners, ed to be partall-purof a compet-center, Wehrenberg began

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Mt. Olive Student Athlete, Artist Jessica Murr Create in Herself for Better CleaningFormer Products

By Jerry Del Priore he Mount Olive Lacrosse Club used to use a gray, drab concrete stone structure as its bounce back wall for No. 18 Vol. 4 throw-and-catch practice for lacrosse players.

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By Jillian Risberg Lacrosse Club, said that the tudents at Passaic club C owanted something unty Technical more eye-catching Institute (PCTI)and gotena ticing of to space help inspire taste from players NASA to practice that particular astronauts themselves skill forthey longerhosted stretches of when the NASA Hunchdisplaying Critical Design time while com-

of the team while showing nah University of Art and Mt. Olive pride,” said Murr, Design in Savannah, Georan ex-two-sport high school gia, is a friend and former student athlete at Mt. Olart classmate of Lexi Helder, ive. “I actually spent a lot of John Helder’s daughter. time researching different After a few artist renderwww.mypaperonline.com ideas and styles. I actually ings, Murr came up with an came up with a few designs, awe-inspiring poster of two and people seem to like the lacrosse players busting out final one.” of side-by-side skulls in a 3D Challenge, innovative nary challenge every year.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • August 2020 • Page 23

The Latest Trend: Urbanites Want the Suburbs

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Courtesy of Terrie O’Connor Realtors recent Harris poll conducted regarding how people are coping with the coronavirus pandemic found that nearly 40% of U.S. adults currently living in urban areas would consider moving to less populated areas.

Even more relevant, the study concluded that 43% of urbanites, as opposed to 29% of suburbanites, were actively browsing real estate websites. In a recent presentation I attended with Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors, he said "They are cautious about living in high density areas with so many people nearby.”

We have certainly been experiencing this trend in our area with many requests from those living in Manhattan and along the Gold Coast looking to rent or buy in northern NJ and southern NY states. In fact, the NY Times stated that between March 15 and April 28, moves from New York City to New Jersey saw a 38% jump. Flatrate.com quoted moves to New Jersey up 43% in early May. At Terrie O’Connor Realtors, we are talking to many urbanites anxious to leave Manhattan, many telling us their buildings are at about 20% capacity and landlords are making great concessions to try to convince tenants to stay.

Clearly, rising rents for confined spaces and health con-

cerns are driving urbanites our way so they can stretch out in an entire home with its own backyard where children can play. With that, there is more attraction to specific features that allow buyers to picture themselves enjoying their new lifestyle in ways they may not have considered before. For example, as a result of more people now working from home, an office or “zoom room” garners great attention. In addition, features in the yard such as a pool, gardens, outdoor fireplaces and outdoor kitchens have quickly become major perks.

Health concerns are also impacting how buyers are searching for homes. The need to have the best online visuals is extremely important. Buyers are now spending the majority of their home search time online. They want to review not only still photos of a property but floor plans, aerial views of a property and 360 visuals of a home. In essence, they want to feel they have experienced every nook and cranny of a home they are interested in before ever physically stepping inside it. At Terrie O’Connor Realtors, we have even just closed on a property that the buyers had never physically seen before. This may not be the norm, but certainly we are seeing buyers only physically look at a very few properties before making an offer.

With that, the housing inventory is still very low. Homes

priced correctly are often selling within days of listing with multiple offers. It is crucial buyers work closely with an agent who will keep their interests top of mind and is a skilled negotiator. The virus has clearly left an impact most heavily on those living in tight quarters without options for social distancing. And, with social distancing and the greater ability to work from home becoming a lifestyle, densely populated areas are seeing their residents exiting. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a must.

Lastly, buyers need to understand the changes COVID19 has made to the purchasing process. Not only will they only physically view the very few properties they are most serious about, but the contract process, inspections and closing procedures are all being handled very differently for everyone’s safety. A qualified sales professional will be able to guide that process.

Founded in 1991, Terrie O’Connor Realtors has become a well known, full service real estate firm with 8 offices and approximately 400 sales associates throughout northern New Jersey and southern New York. As a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World and Luxury Portfolio International, the company is part of the largest global real estate network with over 4,300 offices in over 70 countries.

Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, graduation? Have a human interest story or something you would like to share? Email us at editor@mylifepublications.com

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Page 24 • August 2020 • Hometown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Meet Maggie: The Puppy with Nine Lives at Eleventh Hour Rescue

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By Dawn M Chiossi hile it has been said that cats have nine lives, dogs are much more like humans having only one. Yet those that say it have never met Maggie-- the latest miracle from Morris County’s Eleventh Hour Rescue.

Pure instinct led this three-month-old puppy on a journey that ultimately led her to Eleventh Hour Rescue Shelter. She didn’t know it yet, but it was the best journey of her life. Founded in 2004 as a non-profit haven for animals, Eleventh Hour Rescue is made up solely of caring, empathetic, and fiercely dedicated volunteers focused on saving death row dogs and cats from kill shelters. Treating their animals like family, these volunteers provide all the love, care, and medical attention they require until they can find their forever homes and the humans that will love them.

To date, Eleventh Hour Rescue has saved 30 to 40 thousand dogs and cats from being euthanized.

“Our mission is to be an animal’s voice, to never put a dog or cat down, to always try to save their lives, and to treat them all like they were our own; even in the cases of illness, sometimes even dangerous illnesses,” enthuses Eleventh Hour Rescue’s Linda Barish. “Maggie’s a three-monthold mixed-breed Shepard/Retriever mix that came to us from Georgia,” she explains. “Someone dumped Maggie’s Mom, Whimsy, and her four puppies at the side of the road in a rural area.

Miraculously, they had made their way to a house that had dogs---perhaps they were search-

ing for shelter or food---and the owners called one of our rescue partners to help them. They were filthy and riddled with ticks and fleas. Shortly after they arrived from Georgia on June 28th, we tested Whimsy’s pups and found that several of them were suffering from Parvovirus. Any puppy can get Parvo,” Barish relates. “It is highly contagious (spread through fecal matter), which can become an even deadly infection of the stomach and small intestine if not vaccinated for early.”

In Maggie’s case, warning bells clamored for everyone when they noticed that the mixed breed was not acting very puppy-like. Where puppies are generally constant balls of unstoppable energy, Maggie was lethargic and not eating. She also had other concerning symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. When the tests proved she tested positive for Parvo, Eleventh Hour Rescue volunteers immediately whisked her to Emergency Animal Hospital for life-saving treatment. “We were shocked when her temperature went to 107 degrees and she was almost unresponsive. It was not good. We strongly suspected she needed a blood transfusion,” Barish says sadly.

That sadness quickly turned to surprise when this plucky fighter made it through the night and pulled through. Maggie’s still in the hospital with her diagnosis now labeled “closely guarded.”

Although Eleventh Hour is thrilled that she is progressing slowly and doing well, they are cont. on page 25

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • August 2020 • Page 25

Meet Maggie... cont. from page 24 ever cautious about her condition; she’s not out of the woods yet, and there is another problem that everyone can relate to--money.

Knowing that vet bills can be extremely expensive, as much as humans’ medical care, and determined to treat Maggie as best as possible, this nonprofit quickly set up a fundraiser to help cover her vet bills. “We

are a non-profit all-volunteer organization.

Unfortunately, we do not receive any monies for it,” Barish relates. “Every dollar we receive for our animals care has to come from donations.”

Rallying around her, animal lovers everywhere have responded heartwarmingly. Already they have raised an impressive $7,290 of the $8,000 goal.

In a couple of weeks, Maggie is slated to have another surgery, this time to fix wounds on her skin she sustained from her spay in Georgia. Barish and the rest of Eleventh Hour Rescue are looking forward to bringing this little girl home to receive round the clock care so that she can recover and lead a perfectly normal life as any dog should.

“We’ve received wonderful feedback on Maggie,” Barish prides. “There’s a ton of people who have offered to adopt her. We have many applicants.”

Like anyone who loves their job, Barish realizes that rewards often come back one-hundred fold. Every animal that comes through their doors has a place in their hearts, and will always have a home with Eleventh Hour Rescue, even after adoption. “We have a saying here, ‘once an Eleventh-Hour animal always an Eleventh-Hour animal,’” Barish tells. She states that their organization is unique: Every adoption con-

tract expressly states that a dog or cat must be returned to the rescue if the adopter can no longer take care of them. “This way, coming back to us, the dog or cat will always receive the love and care they need and deserve.”

With hundreds of volunteers doing all they can to help their four-legged friends, Eleventh Hour Rescue has proved itself to be a great network, and so much goes into their resources. “It’s the best thing I’ve ever done,” Barish asserts. “The commitment and compassion everyone has for our animals is just amazing. We (at Eleventh Hour Rescue) do it for the happy ending. Loving these animals for their whole life long, it is so worth it.”

As such, these animals are given a second (or third, or fourth) chance at life, just like Maggie.

Barish shares that now this delightful mixed breed is enjoying sleeping with her stuffed animals and loving all of the attention she is receiving. “She’s such a sweet, special girl,” Barish prides. “Maggie knows she’s still around for her life and she’s definitely getting ready to be spoiled.”

To learn more about Eleventh Hour Rescue, Maggie, or any of the animals who reside there, or to donate, please visit www. ehrdogs.org/.

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Page 26 • August 2020 • Hometown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Get Your Mansion in May Fix at Splendor in September Featuring: Tyvan Hill

All Photo credits: Dannette Merchant

T

By Jillian Risberg yvan Hill is that jaw-dropping property you just have to immerse yourself in to grasp. The gracious country estate built by the Castles family of New York City has a long and storied history.

“When I think of Tyvan Hill my mind immediately conjures up a vision of a winding drive off a stately country road, leading to a magnificent estate on a hill surrounded by over 20 tranquil acres,” says co-chair, Pat O’Connor. “A setting that cries out Mansion in May. It has everything a mansion Chair could ever ask for, including enough wonderful spaces inside and out for almost 50 designers.”

The Women's Association for Morristown Medical Center (WAMMC) chose the 10,000-square-foot Tyvan Hill in New Vernon as the site of its 19th Mansion in May. After being sidelined for months due to the Coronavirus pandemic they are now presenting it as Splendor in September.

Tom Salaki, principal of Square Acre Studio in Madison recreated a landscape design for Tyvan Hill based on the original plan designed in 1928.

“The Courtyard will enhance but not detract from the gorgeous entrance of Tyvan Hill and the back of the mansion is a tranquil setting,” Salaki says. “Our landscape designers have created spaces to appeal to your enjoying a relaxing day in the country!"

Since its inception in 1974, Mansion in

May Designer Showhouse and Gardens has raised over $11.5 million for worthwhile causes at Morristown Medical Center. Proceeds from Tyvan Hill will benefit the expansion of the Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute.

“It is a cause which is very personal to us, each having lost a parent to heart disease way before we should have, and I lost my husband to a very rare heart condition,” O’Connor says. “When the WAMMC Board unanimously chose the expansion of Gagnon as our cause, I was overwhelmed with joy and, quite honestly, moved to tears.”

According to O’Connor, without Gagnon’s expansion project the facility would have only been able to handle an estimated ten-percent of projected new patient volume based on our aging population.

“Going forward, whenever I drive past MMC and see the newly expanded Gagnon facility, I will be filled with a sense of pride that I had a little something to do with making sure our community has access to world-class cardiovascular care,” the cochair says.

For WAMMC President Katie Nolle, September can’t come soon enough.

“The joy of opening the doors and wel-

coming visitors on Tuesday, September 8 to Tyvan Hill will be wonderful,” Nolle says.

“I am looking forward to thanking patrons for supporting our cause and seeing the hard work that our volunteers, interior designers and landscape designers have put forth to make Tyvan Hill a beautiful country estate.”

In an effort to provide guests with a pleasant and safe visit, they have established new admissions protocols and will be enforcing state and local mandates to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

MIM is such a beloved event — Nolle attributes its success over the past 46 years to their commitment to the WAMMC motto of "Contributing with Passion" and apply this passion to every detail.

“We open the doors to historic homes that have been neglected and embrace the aura of each mansion. This mystique appeals to the patrons who are always curious to view these grand estates,” Nolle says. “We have a loyal following of designers as well as patrons who support us as we raise funds for Morristown Medical Center.”

According to co-chair Kathy Ross, people may not know that they never rent or

lease a house to transform it into a Mansion in May. “We rely on the generosity of homeowners who graciously share their homes with us to transform and present to the public,” Ross says. “Without homeowners' kindness, there would be no Mansion in May.” And there are pieces of a mansion puzzle that fill her with joy.

“Witnessing the transformation of a ‘house’ to a mansion, thanks to our designers' deep skill set; their creativity and vision set the bar high amongst designer show-houses throughout the country,” Ross says. “It is an honor to work on a project that benefits Morristown Medical Center, a true pillar of healthcare in our community.”

Tyvan Hill means hundreds of talented people working tirelessly together, while being as flexible as possible to make sure this Mansion can move seamlessly from what was to be in May to their newly envisioned Splendor in September.

“It’s the Mansion that just won’t quit, as it continues to press on towards its goal to benefit the much-needed expansion of Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute at a time when our hospital’s resources have been stretched by an unexpected pandemic,” O’Connor says. “It’s an opportunity for our greater community to say thank you to the hospital community that was and is always there for all of us.”

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • August 2020 • Page 27

Bet on This: Mount Airy Resort Casino is the Getaway You Need

T

By Jillian Risberg hey couldn’t be happier to be back doing what they do best -- provide award-winning service to their valued guests. Mount Airy Casino Resort reopened June 22 after suspending operations for 14-weeks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and it feels good to be home.

For more than 50 years, Airy has offered the quintessential Poconos experience, sitting on the site of what was once ‘beautiful Mount Airy Lodge,’ a premier destination for honeymooners that began in the 1950s.

“Located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Mount Airy Casino Resort guests can enjoy more than 10 nearby hiking trails to explore the vast outdoors,” says Glenn Cademartori, vice president of marketing. “The beautiful 2,400 square miles of the Poconos landscape offers visitors scenic views of waterfalls, wetlands, forests, and even the chance to catch a glimpse of some wildlife.”

According to Cademartori, over the last few months the Mount Airy team diligently cleansed and sanitized the entire property with EPA approved cleaning and sanitizing agents and followed CDC guidance for workplace cleanliness and safety.

“To maintain these standards, key team members have attended cleanliness, sanitation and safety training classes conducted by Ecolab, a global leader in water, food safety and public health technologies,” says the Marketing VP. “The safety and well-being of our guests remains our top priority.”

Sondra Leskowyak really enjoyed her recent two-night stay.

“We saw extra staff sanitizing slots,” says Leskowyak, of Mechanicsville, Virginia. “Everyone had masks on. Big shout out to the pool staff and our server Hannah who gave us amazing service.”

Guests will encounter the Resort’s recent $40 million expansion, including 100 new guest rooms and nine new executive suites.

“Now the resort holds nearly 300 upscale guest rooms and suites that provide a warm ambiance and naturally accentuate the serenity of the Pocono Mountain setting,” Cademartori says. “In 2019, Mount Airy Casino Resort was awarded AAA’s ‘Best of Housekeeping’ award.

It’s also a premiere gaming getaway, with over 1,800 slot machines, 80 table games and recently opened sportsbook.

“Casino wasn’t packed at all and it was kept super clean. Every other seat was removed and every other machine turned off,” says Lisa Zaccagnino, of Dunmore, PA. “Hand sanitizer stations were all over and wipes were available at ticket redemption machines. We ate at Guy Fieri’s and can’t say enough about the staff. They kept the place spotless!”

As Pennsylvania’s first AAA Four Diamond-rate casino, the 900-acre resort is complemented by a 20,000-square-foot convention center and ballroom that serve as a state-of-the-art venue for private and corporate events, weddings and entertain-

ment.

The Four Diamond designation is a major recognition.

“Mount Airy Casino Resort has cultivated an unwavering commitment to our guests by providing the highest quality hotel accommodations and resort amenities,” Cademartori says. “Being named a 10-time AAA Four Diamond award winner is a bold reflection of our commitment of raising the bar of our resort’s customer-focused luxury brand year after year.”

Guests can discover a variety of signature restaurants and so much more: Guy Fieri’s Mt. Pocono Kitchen, award-winning Bistecca by Il Mulino, Lucky 8 Noodle and Sushi Bar, The Buffet, Starbucks and Pizzeria Montagna.

“This all-encompassing, full service resort destination for outdoor and gaming enthusiasts alike features a Sports Illustrated-recognized lakefront 18-hole golf course; 16,000-square foot spa, salon and exercise facility; luxury indoor/outdoor pool and entertainment complex — aptly called Wet, and a covered outdoor pavilion that hosts summer concert series,” says the Marketing VP. And the 51,000 square-foot Get Wet Ultra Pool is a generously heated four-season pool featuring an underwater passageway to allow guests to swim continuously between adjoining indoor and outdoor spaces.

Never been to Mount Airy? According to Cademartori, you’re in for a treat.

“Guests can expect award-winning ser-

vice and amenities in every corner of the property. Available to both hotel guests and outside visitors, the spa includes 10 treatment rooms, separate men’s and women’s lockers, a steam room, sauna, tranquil quiet room, and more,” says the Marketing VP. “Mount Airy’s restaurants have been awarded by OpenTable diners as some of the best in the Pocono area in several categories, including Best Ambiance, Best Service, Most Romantic and Best Special Occasion.”

The origins of Airy date back to October 2007, when Louis DeNaples bought the former Mount Airy Lodge site and opened Mount Airy Casino Resort as a premier gaming and year-round resort destination in Northeast Pennsylvania. A family owned business, DeNaples turned the resort over to his daughter, Lisa DeNaples, in 2009.

Mount Airy is less than 90 minutes from Philadelphia, New York City and northern New Jersey — and within a short driving distance of many Pocono attractions, including The Crossings Outlets, hiking trails, water parks, zip lining, ATV tours and much more.

“As the Poconos’ premier full-service vacation destination, Mount Airy Casino Resort is an extraordinary experience for all guests no matter the season,” Cademartori says. “With amenities ranging from gaming, pool and spa, to signature restaurants and array of outdoor recreational activities like skiing, golfing, boating and swimming, Mount Airy is the perfect getaway.”

Page 28 • August 2020 • Hometown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

NJStarz

Stan Yagiello Hometown: Livingston, NJ Stan Yagiello tossing a completion – Livingston High School Class of 81 Reunion

M

By Steve Sears ention something to Stan Yagiello about his days as an All-State football quarterback and baseball shortstop at Livingston High School. Toss into the conversation his historic signal calling career at The College of William & Mary in Virginia. No doubt – and with good reason; there is much to tell – a few stories will emerge.

He will begin by saying, “Listen to this, you’re going to love it,” and he will speak about the competition faced and the great teams he played on.

But then he will get to the friendships formed back in the mid to late 1970s – early 1980s, and you can tell those close bonds did and still matter the most.

“The brotherhood and camaraderie I had with my high school friends with both classes – that’s the classes of 1980 and 1981 – my junior year, that group of guys, like Mike Braun and Greg Wickner, I’m still spot on in touch with those guys on a regular basis, all year round. We get together a lot; it’s one of the closest classes I’ve ever been associated with,” says Yagiello, 57, whose family moved to Livingston when he was 11-years-old. “I’d have to say it’s one of the blessings I’ve had in life is to have a group of guys like that that are still close knit – I mean, 1980 to 2020…40 years!”

Former pro quarterback, Norm Snead, told Yagiello when he was in college, “You have to be in the right place at the right time with the right people.” It

Stan Yagiello leads the William & Mary Tribe on offense – College of William & Mary Sports Information Department

applied well to those fall and spring sports seasons in Livingston. “The highlight of our 1979 (football) season,” says Yagiello, “is we had two outstanding captains, Greg Wickner and Mike Braun. Greg just got put in the Livingston (High School) Hall of Fame, and Mike Braun is a worthy candidate to be in the Hall of Fame.” He also mentions offensive linemen Harry Neugold. “Harry Neugold was an outstanding offensive lineman. He is in the Hall of Fame. Harry is one of the great offensive linemen ever to come out of Livingston.” And, for Yagiello, to be a leader of that team? “Livingston had a great football tradition.

I stepped into a program that had a great tradition.

It was an honor to be a quarterback on that team because we had such great guys who were all really strong football-minded guys.”

Yagiello played football, basketball, and baseball for three years as a Livingston Lancer, his sophomore and senior years sandwiching the splendid junior ledger where Al Jacobson’s gridiron club finished 10 -2 and the school baseball team defeated Hamilton East for the state title. The football Lancers fell to Belleville, 38 - 6, in week number one, but then went on a ten-game undefeated run, defeating Westfield (although underdogs against a team that had yielded minimal touchdowns during the season) in the first round of the Group 2 Section 4 state playoffs, but then losing the state title game to the powerhouse Union Farmers. “That (the Westfield game) was, for all of us, probably our highlight game,” remembers Yagiello, who was in a cast the week prior due to a dislocated knee, having it removed prior to kickoff.

“We beat Westfield at Giants Stadium, and we had a shot (for the state title against Union), but it didn’t turn out our way.” That season, which saw numerous Lancers attain All-Essex County honors, Yagiello passed for 2,026 yards and 26 touchdowns, completing over 50% of his passes. Yagiello’s favorite target was best friend, George Alpert, he on the receiving end of 52 passes for 789 yards and 11 touchdowns.

“We’re still great friends. George was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of receiver,” says Yagiello. “George was not just speed; he had great hands and great athletic ability. If every quarterback had a receiver like George to throw to, you can’t help but be successful.”

The football squad in both 1979 and 1980 (his senior season, the Lancers finished 6 – 3) held the number one spot in the state for a period, and the 1980 baseballers ended the season tops in the Garden State. “That team had five guys that were drafted by the major leagues,” recalls Yagiello. “You had talent abundant in baseball.”

Yagiello hit .435 that spring, had 41 hits, stole 22 bases. He and four teammates were named to either the First or Second-Team All-State list. One member of that squad was the future Governor of New Jersey, Chris Christie.

Yagiello lauds his coaches. Three - Jacobson, head baseball coach Bill Lampeter, and assistant football coach Anthony Hope - have passed away. “Immortal,” he says of the trio who coached in the neighborhood of 40 years. He also cites football coach Rudy Valentine, baseball coaches Fred Alworth, Rich Howell, Lee Hammer, and Dick Gennaro, and basketball coaches Gary Doyle and Mike Valentino, for having a huge influence on him in sports and life. “When you grow up, you have to be around great players, you have to be around great coaches.”

With all his success in football and baseball, Yagiello claims his favorite sport was always basketball, and while growing up in Livingston, his 7th and 8th grade years, when he played junior high school and Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) basketball, were the best of his life. One winter season, he played in 79 games. He briefly reflects back. “That year, I could not wait to get to the gym. That one year was the most phenomenal year I’ve ever had in my life.” Also, as a Lancer point guard, he was a teammate of popular novelist Harlan Coben, a 1980 Livingston High School grad who also made Yagiello a part of one of his books – in a way. In the book, Coben refers to his entourage of characters heading to a local hangout to discuss their NCAA Final Four picks. The meeting spot? Yag’s Sports Bar. “Somebody sent me the page,” says Yagiello excitedly. “It is one of my biggest honors. I was elated that he even thought enough of me to put me in his book. He (Coben) is a first-class guy who never forgets who he grew up with.”

Ironically enough, Yagiello’s parents, who while living in Kearny owned a restaurant for years called Home Plate, considered opening a Hoboken location called Yag’s Pub. His Dad, Raymond, was the first Kearny High School Cardinal graduate to play professional football, two seasons with the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League, and also served as Head Football Coach at then-Montclair State College for three seasons. His brother, Gary, was for two seasons a First-Team All-State catcher for Kearny baseball, and his Mom, continued on page 29

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • August 2020 • Page 29

Bill Giuliano, Stan Yagiello, and Harry Neugold with a fellow Lancer – Michelle J. Mania-Giuliano.

continued from page 28 Freda, and sister, Karen, he says “are still my best support team.�

Yagiello was heavily recruited out of high school, with Boston College, Rutgers, and William & Mary all offering scholarships that just needed (and were yearning for) his signature on the dotted line. He was also picked by Major League Baseball’s Cleveland Indians as a shortstop in the 16th

round of the 1981 Draft. Rather than head Midwest, down the east coast a-ways he went. He explains why. “I visited William & Mary on my last visit. I fell in love with the school, it was a smaller atmosphere, they were committed to the passing game, and I had to make a decision.� He got a nudge from Phil Janaro, a recruiting coach for William & Mary, in Yagiello’s words, “a true

Jersey guy, pure and pure. Still one of my favorite people to this day. He just made me feel so comfortable in my visit and the whole recruiting process.�

The William & Mary Tribe, and Head Coach Jimmy Laycock, had their man.

As a true freshman, he appeared in only 3 games as a backup, then was redshirted, and in his first collegiate start as a redshirt freshman, he torched the Miami of Ohio secondary by throwing for two touchdowns and 414 yards, one of two 400-yard games in his college career. Due to an injury, Yagiello platooned at quarterback until the season’s sixth contest against Dartmouth College.

From there on, the starting role was his through 1984. He was the first four-year starter in Tribe history.

In his junior season, he set a school record with 261 pass completions in 428 attempts (tops for the school) for 2,801 yards. As a senior, he completed 240 passes for 2,962 yards and 23 touchdowns.

His final career tally was 737 completions out of 1,246 attempts for 8,249 yards, 51 touchdowns, and twenty 200-yard passing games. He holds the school record for most 400-yard games, and also played two years

of baseball.

Yagiello in 1997 was inducted into the William and Mary Athletics Hall of Fame. “I couldn’t be happier,� he says of his college days. “To be quite frank, I have so many great friends from college to this day, and we’re in contact almost every day. I am thankful for that. I honestly think it was a great decision (to go to William & Mary).�

Yagiello, who runs his own firm, Garden State Fastener, which sells industrial hardware to the heavy equipment industry, and also toiled in professional football for the Washington Redskins and Dallas Cowboys (NFL), the Toronto Argonauts and Montreal Alouettes (Canadian Football League), and the Pittsburgh Gladiators and New York Knights (Arena Football League), sums it all up. “I was able to play with a bunch of guys that put the team first and put themselves second. I think that’s a big reason that separates the real good teams from the average teams.�

And a big reason why the Livingston Lancers were a success during his years there. “I’ve been very lucky in life,� he says.

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Page 30 • August 2020 • Hometown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

For Gabe Vitalone, Dream Accomplished

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By Steve Sears he former 34-year William Paterson University professor walked out from underneath the Yankee Stadium stands, exited the visiting team’s dugout, looked up at the scoreboard, and was greeted with a message: “The Yankees welcome Gabe Vitalone.”

“You have no idea,” the 98-year-old says of that March 2020 afternoon. “I auditioned in front of an empty stadium. I’ve seen pictures of it, I’ve been to the (Yankee) Stadium so many times, but nothing looked the way it looked that day. It was surreal; there was no movement, there were no people.”

Okay, maybe it wasn’t Opening Day for the 2020 Major League Baseball season, but still, Vitalone accomplished a dream of singing the National Anthem at Yankee Stadium.

In mid-February, Vitalone’s son, Peter, posted a Vimeo Internet video about his dad’s desire to sing our nation’s anthem for his boyhood friend, Joe Romano, who died in World War II. “I had mentioned to him (Peter) that, every time I hear the National Anthem, I think of my buddy Joe (a

United States Marines Corporal), and it’s been that way since we lost him in World War II.” The film went viral, and Vitalone received an invite from the Yankees to visit. “I had to chuckle,” Vitalone, a member of the WPU’s Athletic Hall of Fame and a 2005 recipient of its Faculty Service Award, says of his special day at the Stadium.

“I said, ‘My God, who ever dreamed that this would happen.’” After the audition, the Yankees then invited Vitalone to sing at the April 19th home opener against the Cincinnati Reds, which was canceled due to COVID19. However, Vitalone’s “Star Spangled Banner” performance before more than 50,000 or more fans still may happen in the future.

The March day was thrilling. As a child, Vitalone used to exit Yankee games at the original baseball cathedral by walking on the field to the centerfield exits, he one time even kneeling at second base to feel the dirt while telling himself, “Someday I’m going to be here.” “That never happened, but in a way it did,” he says. “Here I was standing there, and I had a surreal feeling about

it. And when they came out and asked me to sing, I was caught by surprise because my son hadn’t told me they were going to ask me to do that.” An inner peace took over as he approached the microphone and started to sing. “I was not frightened, I was not nervous, I just sang it the way I felt.”

“I just felt Joe’s presence. I wasn’t out there alone.”

Vitalone and Romano met at age 12 when serving as altar boys while living in the Italian area of Yonkers, New York. The friendship flourished, and both became interested in baseball, especially the New York Yankees, attending World Series games from 1936 – 1939. In fact, Vitalone even snagged the first ticket to the 1943 series – a bleacher seat for $1.10. He still has the stub. Romano died 9 months after that Fall Classic, and both were such good friends, Vitalone adopted Romano’s mom as his second mother, visiting with her during holidays up until her passing, and also befriended his brother until he passed in early 2020.

“He’s (Romano) still a part of me. I’m looking up now at my dresser and I can see his picture on my dresser,”

Vitalone says.

Vitalone, who lives in Pompton Plains with his wife of 66 years, Evelyn, is currently writing his memoirs, and there are a few general themes. “I want to live my life to the fullest. I don’t want to change who I am, but ask God to allow me to be – as he always has – who I am. It’s necessary for me to set the best example I can for other people. I want people to say, ‘If he can do that at 98, I’m going to live my life like I can do it.’” He then adds, “I love people and people have always loved me, and that’s the cycle that keeps me going.”

“I would never have imagined this, and I’ll always be thankful for it.”

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown Life • August 2020 • Page 31

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