Livingston November 2022

Livingston Businessman Launches Podcast

By Evan Wechman

Livingston resident, author, and entrepreneur Barry Farber fondly remembers reading to his now adult children decades ago when they were just little kids. Those memories of bonding with them and a book remain with him. He recalls reading out loud to them, and even using different animated voices from the characters in the stories to light up his children’s imaginations. He said, “I just remember reading with my kids and I became the characters, and they would have so much fun and get a real kick out of it.”

Though this might sound like a simple activity, Farber believes reading to your children in general is one of the best activities you can do for them to help them learn at an early age. The focus on learning and developing other traits which can lead to success down the road is the subject of Farber’s new podcast “In Search of the Magic Tree.” It is based on the children’s book he wrote a few years back where he used the traits of different animals to teach children the fundamentals of leading a positive life.

Farber has now taken the key traits from his book such as patience, courage, positive attitudes, empathy, and determination to launch his podcast where different experts will discuss how to instill these attributes in children.

The podcast launched this past summer with a tremendous interview with Business expert and famous television celebrity, Kevin O’Leary from television’s The Shark Tank. Though a celebrity, Farber said O’Leary is “one of the most extremely intelligent gracious humans on the planet.”

According to the Livingston podcast host, the reason for having the celebrity on his program was not only to discuss how to teach financial literacy to children.

In addition, he wanted his audience which consists of thousands of parents, to understand how to instill in children a great work ethic, as well as how to recover from defeat. Both O’Leary and Farber believe the ability

continued on page 2

Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary holding Livingston resident Barry Farber’s book

to bounce back from a difficult day or decision

fundamental to success in work and in life.

Farber wants to have more guests on his show, whether they are celebrities or not, who have found success in raising great children by teaching them the values which lead to a healthy and productive life. “It’s not an easy thing to do in today’s world where it’s a little different than years ago. We have so much technology around us that I think the interpersonal skills can be compromised so I wanted to have different people talk about the foundations of raising kids at an early age,” he said.

Another fascinating interview on the podcast was with world renowned surgeon Dr. Mark McLaughlin who said that exposing children to as many different activities as possible is of great importance because this is the time when their brain is flexible enough to learn tremendous things. For instance, the two discussed how it is far easier if you are reading to your children every evening for them to

develop advanced language skills than to pick them up later in life.

For instance, Dr. McLaughlin and Farber discussed on the podcast how some children can study and become proficient in up to about 5 languages as children because their brain is still developing, and they are reading and learning every day.

Though this may not be an everyday occurrence, Farber has learned a lot from his guests and acknowledges that at a young age, children if instructed the correct way, can learn and absorb things at a fast rate. He said that it is important for “children to be exposed to as many activities as possible.”

Farber said in future podcasts he wants to continue to add value by featuring educators, doctors, and even athletes who have raised successful children. One such athlete is former New York Yankee Gary Sheffield who has instilled in his children the wonderful quality of confidence. Sheffield used his confidence at the bat to hit over 500 career home runs and has a great perspective on handing that

attribute down to his kids.

Farber has made a successful transition from writing the children’s book “The Adventures of Little Billy: In Search of the Magic Tree” to his podcast by keeping the focus on the values and ideas needed for children to blossom into wonderful adults.

Farber said he also wants to bring in teachers who have worked with children

with academic deficiencies to show what can work in those settings as well.

This seems to bring much joy to the Livingston resident who said “I have to love what I’m doing and I’m not planning on stopping.”

The “In Search of the Magic Tree” podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts.

Pillar Elementary School Cuts Ribbon on New Preschool Playground

By Evan Whitenack

Elementary School recently cut the ribbon for “Amanda’s Play Place,” a preschool playground for students with disabilities. The playground was named in honor of Amanda Machemer, a Pillar Schools longtime student and daughter of Pillar Care Board Chair, Clark Machemer. The space was also dedicated to late Pillar Elementary student Daniel Grijalva. “Amanda’s Play Place” was built to provide a space for Pillar Elementary preschoolers to develop and grow in an environment catered to their needs. Activity on the playground provides therapuetic benefits such as strength and conditioning, while also leading to improved focus in the classroom. Pillar Elementary School is a special needs school for children with medical disabilities located in Livingston, NJ. The school is operated by Pillar Care Continuum, a non-profit located in East Hanover dedicated to providing services for individuals with disabilities. In addition to Pillar Elementary, the agency also operates Pillar High School in Livingston, as well as multiple day programs and group homes for individuals with disabilities. For more information about Pillar Care Continuum, please visit pillarnj.org

LLC

(From left to right) Livingston Town Councilman Al Anthony, Pillar Elementary Teacher Dawn Heinen, Omar Grijalva, Bette Hanauer, Michelle Machemer, Amanda Machemer, Pillar Care Board Chair Clark Machemer, Pillar Elementary Principal Hetty Kintiroglou, Pillar Care Continuum President & CEO David Bishop

with Andrea Hoffmann

Answers to your home and real estate questions.

Q: Interest rates have risen significantly. I’m trying to buy my first home. Have I missed the boat?

A: If I’m being honest, the last two years have been challenging for suburban buyers. First, pandemicmotivated urban flight flooded local real estate markets with well-funded––sometimes all cash––buyers. Bidding wars became commonplace, and many buyers had to go through the unpleasant process of losing a few bids before they won.

Now, buyers face the rising cost of borrowing. As of this writing, the average rate on a conventional 30-year fixed mortgage from Bank of America is just over 7%, more than double what it was a year ago. Buyers are paying more for their debt, which means they may need to reconsider their price range as they search. When debt was cheap, perhaps a buyer could comfortably afford a $750,000 home based on the monthly mortgage cost. Now, they may need to settle closer to $500k or even less.

Should you wait it out?

We get this question a lot, actually. When mortgage rates are high, the demand for rentals rises as buyers consider sitting on the sidelines. But here’s the thing: when rental demand increases, so do prices. We’re seeing people get into bidding wars even on rentals, offering more than the posted rent or even offering to pay several

Home Zone

months in advance, among other things.

Deciding how and when to participate in the housing market is an important financial decision and comes down to your budget, needs and overall financial strategy. Does renting make sense in order to figure out which neighborhoods you like or to get children into a specific school system while you continue to househunt? Or, is it best to buy a place now, even with a higher mortgage interest rate, to avoid throwing away tens of thousands of dollars in rent? After all, you can refinance eventually.

The choice is entirely yours, and I can make a valid case for several scenarios. Yet, no matter how you slice it, it’s still a tricky time to be a buyer. Now more than ever, the experience and expertise of a licensed real estate agent can be a valuable asset as you navigate and negotiate.

Q: I heard the gray wall trend is coming to an end. Is that true?

A: I guess it depends who you ask. Personally, I don’t

Specialist in Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry

Kaplan

think you can ever go wrong with a neutral wall. In support of that theory, Behr’s color of 2023 is a classic off-white called Blank Canvas. However, Benjamin Moore is spicing things up with their 2023 color pick: Raspberry Blush. My rule of thumb is to give a new wall color a try if you feel so moved. What’s the worst that can happen? You just repaint!

Get your own question featured in The Home Zone! Email me at Andrea.HomeZone@gmail.com.

Andrea Hoffmann is a licensed Realtor © on The Stan Kay Team at Compass, 1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills, NJ 07078. M: 917714-1369; O: 973-310-6816

What is Movember?

you think you’re seeing more moustaches lingering over mens’ upper lips as November unfolds, chances are your eyes are not deceiving you. November has long been synonymous with Thanksgiving and the start of the holiday season, but it’s also taken on a whole new persona in recent years, and moustaches are a significant part of that new identity.

Arguably as popular as ever, Movember® is a public health-focused effort designed to raise awareness of and support research into men’s health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and suicide. Men who participate in Movember typically begin growing moustaches on November 1 and keep them throughout the month.

The origins of Movember can be traced to 2003, when two men in Australia, Travis Garone and Luke Slattery, met for a beer in Melbourne. At that point in time, the popularity of moustaches had waned, but Garone and Slattery joked about restoring the stache to its once-lofty status. At the time, a friend’s mother was fundraising for breast cancer, and Garone and Slattery were inspired to combine their efforts to bring back the moustache with efforts to raise awareness about men’s health and prostate cancer. In a testament to the two friends’

skills in the art of persuasion, they were able to find 30 men willing to take up the challenge to grow a moustache. Those who accepted the challenge agreed to follow the rules of Movember, which included paying $10 to grow a moustache.

That initial campaign generated significant enthusiasm among the initial participants, so the following year a decision was made to formalize their efforts and officially support a worthy cause related to men’s health. After some research, prostate cancer was chosen as the issue to formally support. The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, though not an official men’s health partner of Movember, agreed to accept any funds generated by the 2004 campaign. By that time, 450 men, including some in Spain and the United Kingdom, had agreed to take part, ultimately raising more than AUD $50,000.

Nearly 20 years later, the moustachioed movement to raise awareness about various men’s health issues is still going strong, having funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects since its inception. Individuals interested in learning more about Movember can visit us.movember. com.

‘LTown Food Czar’ Shines Her Own Local Flavor on Livingston Restaurants

By Jillian Risberg

It was March 2020 when COVID shook the world to its core and everyone scrambled. That’s when Livingston personal trainer Heidi Blum knew she had to do something to change the landscape during an uncertain time of devastation.

Her son Matthew had been working at Calabria’s, and they pivoted to the new normal with special family meal menus.

The restaurant asked him to send his mom to post on the LTown Facebook group.

So she took to LTown, where people noticed her updates and Neeli -- who runs the group, asked Blum to be the ‘Food Czar.’

“My response was ‘what the heck is that’ but of course, because I wanted to help in any way I could,” Blum says.

“For two years during the pandemic, I posted daily for local restaurants to share their menus and specials, and new restaurants to (say) they were there and ready to serve. It was helpful for the business owners to feel like they were part of the community as they stepped up to feed our town.”

According to the Food Czar, the posts moved into what she calls ‘live-ish’ videos that have taken on a life of their own.

These videos have brought Blum much joy.

“If it brings them business for just three days,” she says she tries to get every restaurant and gets requests all the time. “I gently hit the bordering towns as well because we are neighbors helping neighbors.”

And it amazes the Food Czar every time she gets stopped

by someone who tells her they love the videos or a restaurant owner thanks her.

“Honestly, I should be thanking them,” says Blum. “It has given me a purpose of some sort and allows me to help keep the town I have loved since day one thriving.”

When it comes to food shortages in the local supply chain, she says restaurant owners/managers all tell her the same thing; food costs are high and labor is hard to come by. It’s tough in this current climate.

“They try to provide the best service they can,” the Food Czar says. “I am proud of our restaurants because I feel they are aware and are doing an amazing job.”

Food insecurity is also a problem, and ever since the pandemic — even more so.

“I hope we never see a time like this again and our restaurants continue to grow,” Blum says but the ability to pivot when something tragic and chaotic happens is key. “I think our town has shown its strength and resiliency.”

Born and raised in Livingston, that doesn’t surprise her. She feels a deep connection to the township; cherishes her childhood memories and loves raising her own family there.

Her children are her inspiration.

“I try to be the best role model to them; kind, generous, compassionate and awesome so my kids can see that is what they should be,” she says, and always treat others the way they would want to be treated.

In her downtime Blum loves to exercise. She plays lots of golf… enjoys the beach, spending time with her wife, three

GreatStartMemories atGreatStartMemories at

LTown Food Czar...

continued from page 10

kids and two dogs.

The ‘Food Czar’s connection to food started as a young girl.

She says she can run through every Livingston restaurant that was in town when she grew up and tell you her favorite meals there.

“Nero’s Chicken Aglio e Olio, Eppes Essen lox, eggs and onions or the Park lace sandwich, Ritz Diner late at night for a grilled cheese with bacon and tomato, Nana’s tuna, Calabria’s pizza, Friendly’s cheeseburger on buttered toast with a fribble; and of course Don’s double burger cheese surprise with a

broadway milkshake and fried onion rings,” Blum says.

If she had a magic wand all the restaurant owners would be successful, happy and proud. And she would finally get better at golf.

“A huge thank you to all those who support the Food Czar,” says Blum, of her fun, meaningful endeavor.

Who knows where the Food Czar will show up next.

“Doesn’t that sound intriguing and mysterious,” she says.

For more information, check out LTown Lowdown on Facebook.

Did You Know?

celebrations

Trendscome and go, and that impermanence can make it hard to predict how certain times of year, including the holiday season, will play out. However, one notable trend in regard to the holiday season that has seemingly withstood the test of time is the popularity of Black Friday among holiday shoppers. But even that dynamic has shifted in the digital age. Though Black Friday remains

a big day for retailers, in 2021 consumers spent more on Cyber Monday (the Monday after Thanksgiving) than they did on Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving).

According to the Adobe Digital Economy Index, consumers spent $10.7 billion on Cyber Monday in 2021. That’s nearly $2 billion more than consumers spent on Black Friday, when retailers made $8.9 billion in sales.

Livingston Vacuum Celebrates 67 Years in Business

By Steve Sears

Ron

Scoppettuolo Sr. Says it best.

“We’re honest and professional, and really,

have a lot to do with it.”

Scoppettuolo claims. “We actually have fun with our customers. We joke around and make sure you’re comfortable when you leave here. Warranty issues? It’s not a big deal, just come back to us and we will take care of it. If you’re upset with something, I’d rather you tell us and let us resolve it, instead of you leaving disgruntled.” He then passes and says with a laugh, “We’re normal: just happy normal people. We’ll treat people the way you want to be treated. It’s very, very simple - the whole world should be like this!”

Absolutely. And tack on the attribute of being thorough, and you have Livingston Vacuum. “It’s the combination of everything,” Scoppettuolo says. “I’ve been doing this myself for over 44 years, so I know pretty much everything about vacuums at this point.”

The Scoppettuolo family has three stores. In addition to Livingston, they own locations in Madison and Metuchen. Livingston Vacuum (the Scoppettuolo’s trek into their own business was initially called J&S Vacuum; more to come on that) was officially founded in 1955. That’s 67-soon-to-be-70 years, and the verbiage on their website, “We must be doing something right!” , obviously sums up Scoppettuolo’s above claim. However it’s obviously not just the words, it’s what happens when you visit Livingston Vacuum for the first time, and then again and

again. And note this: it’s more than just vacuum cleaners. “We repair sewing machines; we sell and service every kind of vacuum,” Scoppettuolo says. Livingston Vacuum sells attachments, bags, belts, filters, and hoses for all vacuums. They also sell Bona and Miele cleaning products, including hardwood floor cleaners, cleaners for granite and marble, and Miele dishwasher tablets and salts. They rent out carpet shampooers and stain extractors. “Another big part of our business is service and installations for central vacuums,” Scoppettuolo adds. “Our best selling vacuums are the Miele’s and SEBO’s. A lot of stores aren’t authorized to sell these brands, and we are one of the largest dealers in New Jersey.” Livingston Vacuum is an authorized Miele and SEBO dealer, and a repair center for Dyson, Oreck, Shark, Kenmore, etc. For a complete overview of brands that Livingston Vacuum sells and services, a visit to their website is highly recommended.

And then there is the rich history of the business and care. Carmen Scoppettuolo, Ron’s dad, was one of the first pioneers to open up a vacuum store. He was able to use his experience and knowledge from working for the Hoover vacuum company in East Orange to branch out on his own. “He did so well there that he wound up opening his first store on Main Street in Orange called J&S Vacuum,” his son explains. “He had my grandfather, Michael, work for him, and then through the years, in 1978 when I graduated high school, I started working there with my cousin, John, and my sister, Maria, also used to work with us. We bought Livingston Vacuum about 45 years ago from a guy n Amed

Bernie Landy. It was at a smaller location, and then we had a building built here. Actually, my father bought a house and had our store built in the back of it.”

That’s the Livingston store story. The Scoppettuolo’s then unveiled multiple locations through the years, opening a store in Nutley, then Teaneck, Montclair, Scotch Plains, and Madison, and just this past year they opened on Central Avenue in Metuchen. It’s advantageous, of course, that the three locations are in three different counties, Essex, Morris, and Middlesex. Customers, therefore, are local in Livingston, Madison, and Metuchen, but word about the Scoppettuolo and team experience, expertise, and service travels. “We’ve got calls in Edgewater, Warren County, Ocean County - we do spread them out,” Scoppettuolo says, referring to onsite calls made outside the store for central vacuum repair.

Carmen Scoppettuolo often shows up onsite to Livingston, Madison, or Metuchen. “It’s a different world today,” says his son, “but customers love to hear his input. With the customers here- I love the way he talks to them. They respect that he’s an old-timer and knows what he’s talking about.”

Livingston Vacuum is located at 599 South Livingston Avenue, Madison Vacuum is located at 81 Main Street, and Metuchen Vacuum is located at 176 Central Avenue. All three locations are open Monday through Saturday, and closed Sunday. For more information, visit livingstonvacuum.com

By Steve Sears

New Jersey-based celebrity bodyguard, Adriano “Bubba” Almony, is the first in his profession to be awarded a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award as a Humanitarian honoree.

“Just to be a part of history, to be recognized on such a high, prestigious honor scale, that just shows people as well in my industry that you don’t just focus on being a bodyguard,” Almony says. “Obviously when you’re working, yes, be focused, be sharp, be proactive visually; be the best man and bodyguard you can be. But even outside of that, most importantly, be a leader. Get involved in your community, get to know people. If you have an opportunity to help children, whether it’s self-defense or mentoring, or volunteering with nonprofits in your communities, whatever it is, just be of service.”

Almony will receive his award on December 4, 2022 at the Hotel ZaZa in Houston, Texas. The recognition comes from President Joseph Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. That afternoon, Almony will also receive special congressional recognition from Texas Congresswoman, Sheila Jackson Lee.

Almony, 28, is originally from Hanover, Pennsylvania, and in fifth grade moved to Ocean City, Maryland, where he grew up for the vast majority of his life. A Stephen Decatur

High School graduate in 2012, he thereafter headed for the Metropolitan area, and has resided in Fairfield, New Jersey the past four years. The owner of Bubba Almony Security Services, he recalls being bullied as a youngster, and suffering from abuse and neglect. He is only now truly opening up about both, and oftentimes he still faces these same challenges. “I’m learning to start to give my testimony,” Almony says. “Even as I was older, even with being an advocate for anti-bullying and for mental health, I experienced bullying as well, being I was on the frontlines with these things. A lot of people overlook that, but when you’re an advocate for something, sometimes you take on the problems head on, or you may experience your own trials and tribulations. I think it’s pretty impressive, though, if you can be a child at one point, you’re going through abuse, and then go on to be somebody who has protected some of the top names. As a respected leader in the industry, I think it just shows people that no matter what you’re going through, if it’s domestic bullying, abuse, anything toxic, you can overcome that. You can be something amazing. And without the struggle, you don’t develop strength. Sometimes we have to appreciate the struggle.”

Almony’s bodyguard services protects a number of well

New Jersey Based Man First Bodyguard Awarded the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award continued on page 15

New Jersey Based Man...

continued from page 14

known celebrities and their families, such as Dr. Khalilah Camacho-Ali, the wife of four-time heavyweight boxing champion, Muhammad Ali, and her children, real estate tycoon Grant Cardone and his wife, Elena Lyons Cardone, P. Diddy’s children, and he also serves as a bodyguard at events, like the 10X Growth Conference (“the number one business event as voted by Forbes,” Almony says), and the 9/11 Memorial Commemoration in New York City.

Almony gives his definition of humanitarian. “A true humanitarian is somebody who understands most importantly over anything, money or monetary, giving your time, giving your words, just making people smile with a simple hug, handshake, or a fist bump,” he says. “Praying for others, using your voice and platform and influence - all of those amazing things. A lot of people think to be a

humanitarian you have to have millions and millions of dollars to help others, but it’s just simply not true. You just have to have a passion to want to volunteer and coach and mentor, and all those are things that I’ve been able to do on a consistent, persistent basis of just being involved. That’s very important.”

Adriano “Bubba” Almony has realized many dreams in his own life, and he encourages others not to give up on theirs. “Pursue your dreams. and don’t limit your dreams – dream as big as you can. Whether you want to be the Governor, the next President, the next award-winning bodyguard, the next elite martial artist, whatever you want to be, put your head down every day and go to work. Pray and keep pushing, and put God first in your life, and anything will happen for you, anything is possible. Just remember to be the best person you can be, and never forget where you come from.”

What’s happening in your school or organization?

Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, graduation?

Email us at editor@mylifepublications.com

Nearly half of all American adults have high blood pressure, or hypertension, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of those, about 75% don’t have it under control, and many may not even realize they have it unless they experience other complications.

In fact, high blood pressure is a leading cause and controllable risk factor for heart disease and stroke as well as other issues such as kidney failure, vision loss and sexual problems. However, the American Heart Association recommends taking these simple steps to help control your levels and manage risks.

Know Your Numbers

In most cases, normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm HG or less. Readings consistently higher than 130/80 are considered high blood pressure. Have your blood pressure measured at least once a year by a health care professional and regularly monitor it at home with a validated monitor then discuss the readings with your doctor. Getting accurate readings can help ensure the most appropriate treatment should any problems arise.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

If you’re overweight or obese, you’re at increased risk of high blood pressure.

Losing just 3-5% of your body weight can help improve your numbers. There are an abundance of plans and programs available that can assist with weight loss, and taking positive steps with a friend or family member may help with motivation.

Get Active

To maximize health benefits and help keep blood pressure in the normal range, the American Heart Association recommends adults get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate activity, 75 minutes of vigorous activity or a combination of the two. Try activities like brisk walking, swimming, bicycling or dancing. For example, the Get Down with Your Blood Pressure campaign uses music and dance to help remember the four easy steps to self-monitor blood pressure:

Get It – grab your self-monitoring blood pressure (SMBP) device

Slip It – slide the SMBP cuff up your arm

Cuff It – wrap the cuff snugly, but not too tight

Check It – check your blood pressure on the device

Eat Well

Making small, simple changes to your eating habits can go a long way toward

5 Steps to Properly Manage Blood Pressure continued on page 17

Properly Manage Blood Pressure...

continued from page 16

keeping you and your family healthy. Eating fruits and vegetables, such as mangos, avocados and blueberries, can lower blood pressure over time. Other smart choices include nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean proteins and fish.

Reduce Alcohol and Tobacco Usage

Smoking compounds risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, and the chemicals in tobacco smoke can harm your heart and blood vessels. Similarly, consuming alcohol excessively (more than two drinks per day) is associated with high blood pressure. Limiting alcohol consumption and stopping smoking – or avoiding secondhand smoke –can help reduce your risk.

If you develop high blood pressure, work with a health care professional to manage it, and visit heart.org/hbpcontrol to find local blood pressure resources, step-bystep self-monitoring videos and more.

Monitoring Your Blood Pressure at Home

Knowing how to correctly check your blood pressure is important, especially if your doctor recommends regular selfmonitoring at home.

Be still. Don’t smoke, drink caffeine or exercise during the 30 minutes before measuring your blood pressure. Empty your bladder and take at least 5 minutes of quiet

rest time before measuring.

Sit correctly. Sit with your back straight and supported. Keep your feet flat on the floor and your legs uncrossed. Support your arm on a flat surface, such as a table, with your bicep at heart level. Place the bottom of the cuff directly above the bend of your elbow. Never take measurements over sleeves or other clothing.

Measure at the same time every day. For greatest consistency, take readings at the same time daily, such as a set time in the morning and evening.

Take multiple readings and record the results. Each time you measure, take 2-3 readings approximately 1 minute apart and record the results to share with your doctor.

This project is supported by cooperative agreements (CPIMP201227 and CPIMP201228) with the Office of Minority Health (OMH) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), as part of a financial assistance award totaling $14.6 million in partnership with the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The contents do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by OMH/OASH/HHS or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit https://www.minorityhealth. hhs.gov/. (Family Features)

Religious School Style

2 Steps to Save a Life The Importance of Hands-Only CPR

More than 350,000 sudden cardiac arrests occur annually outside hospital settings. However, a hands-on emergency intervention like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), especially if performed immediately, can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival.

According to the American Heart Association, 70% of cardiac arrests –electrical malfunctions in the heart that cause an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and disrupt the flow of blood to the brain, lungs and other organs – occur at home, but often family and friends who witness a child, spouse, parent or friend going into cardiac arrest hesitate to perform potentially lifesaving CPR for fear of making the situation worse.

“By equipping people with Hands-Only CPR training, we are empowering them to spring into action if a loved one needs help, as the majority of cardiac arrests occur at home,” said Dr. Anezi Uzendu, M.D., interventional cardiologist and American Heart Association volunteer.

As part of its Hands-Only CPR campaign, nationally supported by the Elevance Health Foundation, the American Heart Association aims to increase awareness about the importance of bystander CPR

and offers these two simple steps: Call 911.

Push hard and fast in the center of the chest of the individual experiencing cardiac arrest.

Using the beat of a familiar song with 100-120 beats per minute, such as “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees, can help you stay on pace with the necessary compressions.

“Being able to efficiently perform Hands-Only CPR in the moment can mean the difference between life and death, and by following these two simple steps we can increase someone’s chance of survival from cardiac arrest,” said Shantanu Agrawal, M.D., board certified emergency medicine doctor and chief health officer at Elevance Health. “As a longstanding supporter of the American Heart Association, we remain focused on working together to improve health inequities in our communities by expanding access to training and increasing the number of people who learn and feel confident performing Hands-Only CPR to save lives.”

To find more information, watch a livestream video demonstration of Hands-Only CPR or download a first aid smartphone app, visit heart.org/CPR . (Family Features)

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

IMPLANT DENTISTRY

Recently, a patient came to Dr. Chiu with a loose full denture in her upper jaw. It turned out she just had her teeth extracted last year and the new denture was put in. Since that loose upper denture was made, she had been unhappy with the situ ation. She inquired about the possibility of a fixed bridge supported by implants. After careful examination, Dr. Chiu decided she would need very extensive bone repair in her sinuses, done in stages to allow her to have implants placed. This could take two years, because she is already wearing a removable denture. It interferes with the normal bone repair process in the other areas of her upper jaw. That’s why planning ahead is crucial when it comes to a treatment of an im plant-supported fixed bridge, especially before the teeth are extracted. Often times, a lot of the “prep” work is done while a couple of teeth remain in the mouth to hold up a fixed temporary appliance. This allows for a faster healing time and more optimal placement of implants to support a fixed bridge.

Come and visit Dr. Chiu, who has placed and restored implant-supported fixed and removable prosthesis for many years.

Your comfort and convenience are always Dr. Chiu’s top priorities. To know more about these procedures, please call (973) 377-0224. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have. To receive a COMPLEMENTARY IMPLANT CONSULTATION, simply mention this article during your appointment.

Offer expires December 31, 2022

A Thanksgiving Story: The Precious Remembrances of My Beloved Grandfather

By Richard Mabey Jr.

One of the most endearing and cherished memories of the Thanksgivings of my childhood and youth is that of my beloved grandfather, heartily and enthusiastically celebrating this wonderful holiday. I remember, all so dearly, how Grandpa loved to carve the turkey after he took it out of the oven of the old Mabey Homestead in Lincoln Park. It was a task upon which Grandpa held as a most high honor.

Grandpa was a man who was governed by detail and precision. As a young man, Grandpa held the honor of serving as the Chief Engineer of Incline Plane Ten East of the infamous Morris Canal. The need to be detailed oriented, plus having raised his family in the heart of the Great Depression, gave Grandpa the wisdom to carve each slice of turkey with great care.

“You never want to cut the slices too thick, Dicky Jim. But on the other hand, you don’t want the family to leave the table hungry,” Grandpa would tell me with a bit of a song in his voice. My grandfather was the man who bestowed me with the nickname of Dicky Jim. He was the last person to ever call me by that name. I would greatly protest when I got to be about 11 years old and my aunts and uncles would call me by that nickname. But, Grandpa was a different story.

It is all so hard to put into words what Thanksgiving Day was like at the old Mabey Homestead. When I was a young boy and my great grandmother, Dora Mabey, was still alive,

there had to be at least 50 people congregated within the warmth and love of the dear old farmhouse that my great grandfather had built when he was just a young man.

Great Grandma Mabey worked hard to keep Thanksgiving Day all so organized. There was the old, stately dining room table, which could only seat six people. So, on Thanksgiving Day, my dad and my uncles would set up four or five additional tables. These extra tables were made up of old pieces of plywood resting upon carpenter’s wooden horses. It was as down home as you could ever imagine. I remember the touch of class that Great Grandma would add to the long procession of plates, glasses and silverware. Great Grandma would have these folded oak tag nameplates, for every single member of the Mabey clan. Great Grandma would decide where you would sit at that table and nobody dared to argue with the proud matriarch.

After the Thanksgiving feast, the women would clean up and wash all the dishes. Most of the men would congregate onto the enclosed front porch and tell remembrances of growing up in Lincoln Park. And Grandpa would sit in the big, easy chair in the southwest corner of the big living room. My cousins and my sister Patti and I would all sit upon the floor at Grandpa’s feet. Then, dear old Grandpa would tell these wonderful and colorful stories of his remembrances of life along the old Morris Canal.

There were no video cameras back then, in the 1950’s and 1960’s. Oh, how I regret that none of Grandpa’s

A cherished, old photograph of my grandfather, Watson Mabey, carving the Thanksgiving turkey at the old Mabey Homestead.

enchanting tales were not videotaped.

My grandfather was an incredibly talented story teller. He would hold us all spellbound with his voice flexion,

continued on page 22

NORMAN THE FLOORMAN

Jersey’s Flooring Expert

Norman the Floorman’s founder, Norman Zeitlin, has been in the flooring business for 64 years! Norman offers a full range of quality wood, vinyl and laminate flooring, at extrememly competitive prices. Better still, Norman not only sells flooring,

and repairs it too!

Consider These 13 Gratifying Thanksgiving Facts

on a 17th century harvest feast shared by the English settlers and the Wampanoag tribe.

2. Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October. It is based on European harvest festivals.

3. The National Turkey Federation says around 45 million turkeys will be eaten on

to about 720

million pounds of turkey being consumed (with the average turkey size being 16 pounds).

4. The Butterball hotline answers roughly 100,000 calls every year on its turkey question hotline.

5. In 1953, the Swanson company overestimated the number of frozen turkeys it would sell for the holiday season by 26 tons. Rather than waste the meat, Swanson sliced it up, repackaged it and created the first frozen TV dinners.

6. Thanksgiving in America may be older than many recognize. While Thanksgiving is largely tied to the 17th century settlers, the National Parks Service says in 1565 Spanish settlers in St. Augustine (now Florida) celebrated by having a meal to which they invited the native Seloy tribe. The Spanish served pork stew, sea biscuits, red wine, and garbanzo beans. Some say the Seloy contributed turkey, venison and maize.

7. Thanksgiving didn’t become a civic holiday until Abraham Lincoln made it one after the Civil War tragedy. Thanksgiving was declared a national holiday on October 20, 1864.

8. The Pilgrims did not refer to themselves as “pilgrims.” They used the

word “separatists” as they were separating themselves from a larger belief system.

9. In addition to Canada and the United States, Grenada, Liberia, the Philippines, Saint Lucia, and the Netherlands celebrate their own versions of Thanksgiving.

10. Each year, the American president “pardons” a turkey from slaughter on Thanksgiving. This tradition dates back to when Abraham Lincoln’s son was upset that his family’s turkey that was going to be killed for Thanksgiving dinner.

11. According to the U.S. Calorie Control Council (CCC), an average American may consume 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat on Thanksgiving Day.

12. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual tradition. People line the parade route in New York City or tune in to watch the parade on television. It originated in 1924 and the famed balloons were added in 1927.

13. Apple pie is the pie of choice for Thanksgiving, even though pumpkin pie is prevalent this time of year.

Thanksgiving is a popular holiday in Canada and the U.S. Many traditions have been borne of the holiday, and it is a favorite time of year for many people.

A Thanksgiving Story...

dramatic timing, facial expressions, and lively hand movements. I would do my absolute best to engrave Grandpa’s stories within the fibers of my mind and the deepest chambers of my heart. Grandpa’s stories did not just center upon his work on Incline Plane Ten East. For when Grandpa was a boy and then through his teenage years, he worked with his father, William Mabey, at the old Mabey Ice House that stood along the banks of the Morris Canal, just a few yards to the east of Incline Plane Ten East. Great Grandpa Mabey had an agreement with Mr. Franciso, who owned the sawmill that was located just to the northwest of the end of Mabey Lane. Great Grandpa and his sons, Watson and Earl, would fill wheelbarrows with the sawdust from the mill and walk them over to the Mabey Ice House. In exchange, Great Grandpa would provide free ice for Mr. Francisco.

As a boy, and then later as a teenager, during the winter months Grandpa and his brother would cut ice blocks from the frozen water of the canal. They would tie a rope around the big block of ice, drag it to their father’s ice house and then thickly pack it with sawdust in the icehouse. It was

far from being the easy life.

In memory, I return to those wonderful and loving Thanksgiving Days. During my childhood and youth, I never really realized just how precious they were. An era has now long past. Like grains of sand slipping through the crevices of my fingers, time has passed all too quickly. Now, at 69 years old, I long to relive just one more Thanksgiving Day of that magical era.

To see Grandpa proudly carve the turkey. To see Grandma stirring gravy at the old stove. To see my father, young and proud. To see my mother, carefully placing the top crust onto an apple pie. To see my cousins all running around the old Mabey Homestead. To see my Great Grandma firmly, but lovingly, commanding everyone to different tasks. To see my aunts cutting up green beans and carrots. And to see my uncles, all gathered upon the enclosed front porch telling tall tales of their youth. And, for one more time, to be able to see and hear Grandpa tell just one of his colorful tales of life along the old Morris Canal.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ hotmail.com. Please kindly write “Thanksgiving Story” in the subject line.

BOCCONE ALTA CUCINA IN LIVINGSTON

NJStarz

NJ Starz: Doug Miller

Hometown: Roxbury

By Steve Sears

As much fun and success as Roxbury High School alum, Doug Miller, had playing the sport of soccer, he now enjoys much more the joy of coaching and teaching the sport to others, especially youngsters.

Miller was born in 1969 and was raised by his dad, James, and mom, Jackie. He has three sisters; Kim, Tracy, and Tammy. He attributes much of his success to his mom, who often drove him all over to play the sport he grew to love. “She was a stay-at-home mom,” Miller says, “and she really sacrificed getting me from point A to point B, and not just for me, for my three sisters as well. She was always available to sacrifice her time for us.”

Miller, the youngest child in his family, initially played baseball. “My uncle Raymond was going to pitch for the Milwaukee Braves in 1957, and he ended up with cancer and he passed away at age 19,” Miller explains. “My mom’s brother was a heck of a baseball player, and I never got to meet him. I enjoyed playing both baseball and soccer growing up, but when I was 14, soccer became more prominent to me because it was more active. It was always moving, you’re always running around, and I think it just became the joy of chasing after a soccer ball instead of getting hit with a baseball.”

Miller was one of the first freshman ever to play varsity soccer at Roxbury High School. “I remember going to a game. We played, I think, at Roosevelt Elementary School. And there was a game where the referee was counting down. 10…9…8…, and I ended up scoring the tying goal or the game winning goal with a second left. And that was the pivotal time for me, coming into my own as a freshman, playing varsity, and then it was three more years of playing high school soccer where we weren’t very good. All four years, I think we might have won 10 games. But it’s not always being on a winning team that means success. You can be on a team like I was and still find your way out of it.”

And he did. Miller turned his eyes and heart towards playing soccer year-round, and at age 18, had committed to County College of Morris, when his friend asked if he’d like to head for Rutgers University in New Brunswick and try out for the Olympic Festival team. He was the youngest player there, but his skills were impressive – so much so that the assistant coach of Loyola College soccer called Miller’s dad and asked them to visit. While there, he was offered a full scholarship to attend the school.

In his senior year with Loyola, his club gave up two goals the entire season. “We routed teams in that year when I was Player of the Year in the conference,” Miller

says. He also finished 10th in the nation in scoring.

His professional career, in a somewhat brief rundown. Miller was initially drafted by the MSL’s Kansas City Comets, who eventually folded. The Baltimore Blast of the Major Indoor Soccer League signed him next. “I was very fortunate enough to play indoor in Baltimore pretty much every other day in the wintertime,” Miller says, “so I knew the game much better than most of the other guys who were coming in.” After playing one season in Baltimore, the MISL folded, and Miller then moved on to the National Professional Soccer League’s Harrisburg Heat, for whom he played 1 ½ seasons.

In March of 1994, Miller was traded to the Cleveland Crunch soccer team, and while there, the Crunch team went on to win the NPSL championships in 1994 and 1996. After is years of sparkling for losing teams, Miller was now the member of a winning squad.

However, he didn’t have much time to rest with that success. Miller then headed to Rochester and its Raging Rhinos (who would become simply the Rhinos). It would change his life. “It was a brand new franchise,” Miller says. “Indoor was my passion, but outdoor gave me another opportunity to play six months outdoors, six months indoor. And so, we went there and probably the best thing that happened to me was that I met my wife. She was a dancer for the Rhinos. I met her probably the first month that I was there. A year and a half later, I married her, and the soccer part of it was the secondary part.” In addition to his ability to go out and score goals, Miller also started teaching kids how to play the game of soccer in Rochester, and he was also a winner again. “I spent 1996 to 1999 in Rochester, where we won two championships, the USL (United Soccer League) championship, and we won the Open Cup Championship.”

Miller didn’t play for the Rhinos again until 2003, and played with them until 2005, when he started his Doug Miller Soccer Academy (now known as Rochester Lancers Academy) in Rochester, New York.

In 2011, Miller returned to the field at age 42, coming out if retirement a second time to play for the Rochester Lancers of the newly begun MISL. He played for the Lancers until 2013. “I played for the Lancers in another coming out of retirement party,” he recalls. “And I was an MVP in that league and broke every scoring record. I had a lot of successes in different decades playing the game.”

In 2018, Miller coached and was President of the soccer operation of the Indoor Rochester Lancers of the MASL (Major Arena Soccer League) and for the NPSL (National Premiere Soccer League) and UPSL (United Premiere

Soccer League) teams. “I coached until last year. We continue to provide a product for the community. We have 400 kids who play for us in my program in Rochester, New York. I really focused on the youth business and teaching. Sport teaches life, and for me it was all about ‘How do we transition from sports and teach life lessons through that?’ That’s been my goal ever since turning pro in 1991.”

Miller recognizes the desire to win is much more important than size and speed. He explains. “There’s always somebody who’s going to be bigger, badder, stronger, faster, which is nice, but how do we take adversity and turn it into opportunity? I think my whole career I wasn’t always the best player, the most technical player, but I had a desire that I wanted it more than anybody, and I was willing to sacrifice more for that. Most people would. When I talk about teaching the kids, the three D’s of Doug Miller are desire, determination, dedication: desire to be your best, determination to work hard, and dedication to never quit.” And he didn’t quit, even when in 2019 the dome to his soccer academy collapsed and he

Doug Miller as a Rochester Rhino (courtesy of Doug Miller)

Hanover Resident Publishes First Young Adult Novel

By Steve Stears

Hanover resident, Sathya Achia, knows the thrill of sitting down and writing a fictional work, the characters created seemingly taking off on their own journey and, in a sense, now controlling your keyboard.

On Monday, October 8, 2022 she experienced the thrill of something else: seeing those same characters between the covers of her first published young adult contemporary, fantasy/adventure novel titled In My Hands.

“I wish I had,” Achia says with a laugh when asked if she took a vacation day from work on that specific Monday, when her book was officially released. “The funny thing is, I think it was the stir, the buzz

leading up to that day. And in fact, the night before, I stayed up until literally 12:01 a.m. and I said to myself, ‘If I just stay awake a little longer, I’ll be a published author.’ That’s kind of the headspace I was in.” Even though she did head to her job that Monday morning, she received congratulations from many via phone call, text, and in person. “But my head was obviously in the clouds and in the book and just reveling in all of it.”

Achia grew up in Canada, but her grandparents still live in India. In My Hands is inspired by her grandparents, culture, and heritage. “It’s pretty much a love letter to all of those things, because I wanted to preserve these

amazing adventures,” she says. “Obviously, this book is fantasy, but I wanted to basically capture all of that. As a kid, when I was reading books, I really missed seeing the kids who were like me; I would describe that of basically someone of two worlds and two cultures. And I see my story as kind of ‘My main character is a South Asian protagonist, so she’s like me, like we’ve got these East Meets West roots.” In My Hands tells the story of 16-year-old Chandra S. Chengappa, who after her mom dies mysteriously, leaves her tiny town in Virginia and heads for jungles in India to find…it’s in the book. “I was a kid who celebrated these wonderful traditions and festivals of my parents’

homeland, but at the same time, I was a kid growing up in the west and I wanted to do all the things that everybody else was doing, I wanted to belong to both those worlds, but I didn’t really have anything to model it after, and I didn’t see it in obviously the media I consumed and I continued on page 25

Now Available on , and other Online Book Sources

"SPEAK NO EVIL"

It is rare that a book can claim to challenge the way we view ourselves, view others and the way we seek our romantic relationships. Speak No Evil – In Search of our Self-esteem, Self-Empowerment, and Self-worth is such a book.

“I believe to increase our healthy self-esteem and increase our self-worth, we must recognize the negative effects on ourselves and others when we get into other peoples’ business and create negative judgements seen through the lens of envy, jealousy, resentment, and begrudging. It was Socrates who said, ‘Strong minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, weak minds discuss people’.”

Also available on Amazon East Clifton Avenue A Family Trilogy Book One by Dr. Frank Plateroti

Sathya Achia (credit Bhavin Misra)

In My Hands (credit Emily’s World of Design)

Young Adult Novel...

continued from page 24

didn’t see it in the books I was constantly reading. I wanted to change all of that. I wanted to show South Asian kids in a way that they haven’t really been seen before: being their own heroes. I wanted to bust stereotypes. I wanted them to no longer be the sidekicks in someone else’s story.”

For Achia, there were many emotions she felt during the writing of her novel. “Chandra goes through such a roller coaster of events,” Achia says. “And yeah, I did cry. Unfortunately, there were characters I had to say goodbye to. And just Chandra’s growth, because it’s a slow growth, but she gets there, and I was proud of her in the end. Definitely there were tears, and there were moments that were lighter moments. There’s romance there, the adventure of it, and it is very kind of heart pounding. And there’s fear and there’s anger there, too. She digs deep, finds out a lot about some family

secrets she had no idea about. She’s full of emotion, I’m full of emotion. We’re going through a lot of stuff together.”

Thus far, reviews of In My Hands have been favorable, and Achia, who has achieved her childhood dream of being a published author, now wants to give back. “I’m available to do school and library visits and do writing workshops with students in our area,” she says. “Sharing my love with young writers is a passion of mine.” Achia, 47, counts her family as her biggest supporters. Her husband of 19 years is Vikram, her sons Eashan and Naveen, and the family pup – and Sathya’s writing companion – is Luna.

Published by Ravens & Roses Publishing, In My Hands can be purchased at www. Amazon.com, www.BN.com, and Barnes & Noble Booksellers. For more information about Achia, visit her website at www. sathyaachia.com

Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, graduation?

Email us at editor@mylifepublications.com

What’s happening in your school or organization?

New Pastor Leads Kitchell Memorial Presbyterian Church into its 125th Year

By Steve Sears

Faye Allred was interviewed for the pastor position of East Hanover’s Kitchell Memorial Presbyterian Church in late March of this year, and she started that new role on April 4, the Monday prior to Holy Week.

was something,” Allred says. “There’s that silly expression ‘Like drinking water from a fire hydrant.’ I can’t think of a more accurate way of describing that first week. My very first Sunday in the pulpit was on Palm Sunday. In that Holy Week time you have Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and then of course you have Easter Sunday. In a normal week, you are putting together one bulletin, one sermon, one order of worship, etc. That very first week on the job, I was putting together four separate services. I didn’t have a lot of wiggle room, and I just jumped right in. And thankfully, this church has just been so wonderful and loving and supportive. We just kind of made our way through the week together.”

Allred’s official Ordination and Installation as Kitchell pastor took place on May 22, 2022.

Allred has what she calls a “sweet congregation” at Kitchell, which turns 125 years old in 2023. “They’ve been around since 1898. It’s a congregation that’s been through a lot. They’ve survived periods of real financial scarcity and financial abundance, and I feel - as is true of denominations across the country – the church has declined quite a bit over the last few generations. So, they’re sort of renewing and reimagining themselves as

the church that they are now, which is a smaller and older congregation, but one that is still full of life and hope for the future. They really want to be sort of a light and stakeholder in the community of East Hanover again, like they used to be in the past. I feel incredibly lucky to be starting my ministry journey here, because I think there really is something special about this place and what they want to do and grow into. It’s a lovely group.”

Allred, originally from Texas, went to college in Oklahoma, where she met her husband Patrick, who currently works at First Presbyterian Church in Morristown. She then attended Union Theological Seminary in New York City. “I felt a very strong and profound call to ministry, which was a really confusing thing because I didn’t really have a lot of context for that,” Allred says. “I didn’t see a lot of that represented in my upbringing. And so, thankfully, it was professors and other people who took a vested interest in me during college that sort of kind of put me on that trajectory.” Allred first worked for the Brick Presbyterian Church in the City of New York on the Upper East side, and then for First Presbyterian Church in the City of New York in West Village. Deciding that the big town was too fast paced for her family which now included young children (daughter Jane is two and son Henry is five), Allred and her husband began to look for something smaller and slower paced on the western side of the Hudson River. Coincidentally, someone from Kitchell called her. Allred relives the conversation. “They

continued on page 28

Hannah Faye Allred and her family (courtesy of Hannah Faye Allred)

Reducing Food Insecurity in Infants and Toddlers

Foodinsecurity isn’t a new problem in the United States, but the economic upheaval created by the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the problem.

During the pandemic, households in the United States with children experienced an increase in food insecurity, despite overall rates of food insecurity staying the same. In 2019, 13.6% of households with children were food insecure, but by 2020, that number increased to 14.8%, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

In general, child food insecurity rates are higher than overall food insecurity rates, according to the annual Map the Meal Gap study conducted by Feeding America, a nationwide nonprofit network of food banks. According to data from the Children’s Defense Fund, this is particularly prevalent among low-income families, single mother households and Black and Hispanic households.

What Food Insecurity Means for Children

Food insecurity and hunger are closely related but not quite the same. People who are food insecure don’t have reliable, ongoing access to an adequate supply of affordable, nutritious food. Hunger is a physical condition; food insecurity reflects barriers to obtaining food such as finances, physical location and transportation.

Infants and toddlers are particularly vulnerable to nutrient deficiencies because their nutrient needs are high, especially in relation to the size of their stomachs and appetites. Caregivers in food-insecure households may have little choice but to settle for cheaper, energy-dense but nutrient-poor foods. As a result, foodinsecure infants and toddlers are not receiving adequate nutrition even when they may be receiving enough calories to satisfy hunger.

Even if a child isn’t physically starving, inadequate nutrition can negatively affect health in numerous ways, including immune system function, low weight, learning and developmental delays, vitamin deficiencies and more.

Ways to Help Promote Better Nutrition

Support good nutrition during infancy and toddlerhood for your own children and others in the community with these practical tips:

Participate in (or introduce those in need to) aid programs. Government

nutrition assistance programs help provide essential nutrition needs during infant and toddler years. One example is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), which provides a variety of resources including food and health care referrals to support mothers and young children at nutritional risk, including pregnant, breastfeeding and post-partum women, as well as infants and children up to age 5.

Another example is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides benefits low-income families can use to purchase nutritious foods. For children and adults who are enrolled in certain care programs, the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) helps ensure they have access to nutritious meals and snacks.

Make purchases that work extra hard. In addition to producing foods that encourage better nutrition for children, some brands also make contributions that help offset food insecurity. For example, for every box of Plum Organics Super Smoothies purchased, the company donates a pouch to a child in need through its “ The Full Effect ” program. The smoothie is a specially formulated blend of fruits, vegetables, legumes and grains with no added sugars designed to fight malnutrition and help fortify the diets of children who don’t have access to regular, healthy meals.

Act as a role model for healthy choices. Children learn by example, so be sure your little ones see you enjoying nutritious snacks, filling your plate with appropriate portions and preparing well-rounded meals. When kids are exposed to a wide range of healthy options early in life, those food choices become the norm as they grow older.

Volunteer at a food bank. Getting handson by donating your time at a local food bank can help you understand the complexity of food insecurity. Many nutritious selections are perishable, and transporting and storing perishable goods is costly. Volunteers help offset a food bank’s operational expenses by contributing labor to sort donated items, prepare deliveries and more.

To find more information about foods that provide infants and toddlers the nutrients they need, visit plumorganics. com. (Family Features)

started talking to me about this small but mighty little group of people who have a big vision, and they really want to try some new things. I thought, ‘This is really interesting. Now this sounds kind of fun and exciting.”

Allred is bringing new initiatives to her congregation. In addition to its current on-going bible study, a possible once a month zoom meeting evening bible study is being formed. “It is not necessarily a new, groundbreaking idea, but we’re just trying to do whatever we can to be more accessible to anyone who would like to explore themselves spiritually, or be more involved with the church, but have not been able to do so because of work commitments or what have you,” Allred

says. Also, the Parish Life Committee is working hard on several things, such as a Christmas tree lighting at the church with the community invited. “And then within worship, liturgically speaking, we have a new idea for Reformation Sunday. We’re going to do a Lessons and Carols service that we haven’t done before. That’s normally something reserved for Advent season,” she adds. “Just finding ways of taking what Kitchell already is so good atthis loving, nurturing community - and just taking that faith and that community and putting them back into East Hanover, and putting that faith into action.”

Kitchell Memorial Presbyterian Church is located at 469 Ridgedale Avenue in East Hanover. For more information, visit www. kitchellchurch.org.

NJ Starz...

had a complete loss with the multimilliondollar structure. “How did I rebuild? That adversity that I went through during my career allowed me to have that fight to rebuild something even better.”

When asked if he would consider coaching and perhaps even playing again, Miller says. “The coaching? Absolutely. There’s a time in your career, however, when you ask, ‘Can I go and compete?” He did in 2020, playing the last indoor games in Rochester against Florida, and Kansas City, and against Kansas City he ended up with two goals and two assists at age 51. However, for Miller, it’s more important to focus on coaching.

Doug Miller and his wife Kari have been married for 24 years, and just like their mom, the Miller daughters, Kayla and Kalista, are dancers. “They were a part of the entire journey,” Miller says. “When

I went back and played for the Lancers, they were the Junior Lancers dancers, and my wife was the choreographer. When I started coaching the team, they were the Lancers Dancers and my wife was the choreographer. It was a very family atmosphere, the better for me because my family was still involved in regards to that. So, it wasn’t like I was doing something and they were at home. They were with me through that process and that journey.”

Miller now lives full-time in Florida with his family. “It’s the next portion of my journey. The sun shines every day, I still have my business in Rochester, New York, and my staff is running it. I go back and forth when I have to, but God has blessed me immensely.”

For more information about Doug Miller’s career and his soccer academy, visit www.dougmillersoccer.com.

Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, graduation?

a human interest story or something you would like to share?

us

IF YOU ARE A BUSINESS OWNER READING THIS, SO IS YOUR BEST CUSTOMER

We can help build and brand your business

Livingston Life is 100% mailed to local residents and businesses

We offer local news, informative articles, community happenings and online advertising

No long term commitments, free artwork and personal marketing guidance

Servicing Morris, Passaic, Essex and Warren Counties

Barbara Freda Marketing Sales Associate 973-769-5310 cell barbara@mylifepublications.com

Call, email or text Barbara for more information

Advertise

What’s happening in your school or organization?

off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-2450398

HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/ mo! Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

Vivint. Smart security. Professionally installed. One connected system for total peace of mind. Free professional installation! Four free months of monitoring! Call to customize your system. 1-833-841-0737

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-ofthe-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855417-1306

Protect your home from pests safely and affordably. Pest, rodent, termite and mosquito control. Call for a quote or inspection today 844-394-9278

!!OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277

Switch and save up to $250/yr on talk, text & data. No contract or hidden fees. Unlimited talk & text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time get $50 off any new account. Use code GIFT50. 1-855903-3048

Attention Homeowners! If you have water damage and need cleanup services, call us! We’ll get in & work with your insurance agency to get your home repaired and your life back to normal ASAP! 855-767-7031

MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-4893936

MACPA

Replace your roof with the best-looking and longest-lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors are available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer - $500 Discount + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-338-4807

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-866-482-1576 or visit dorranceinfo.com/macnet

Looking for auto insurance? Find great deals on the right auto insurance to suit your needs. Call today for a free quote! 866-9242397

Internet & WiFi Starts at $49 Call us Today to Get Started. Find High Speed Internet with Fiber Optic Technology No Credit Check, No SSN Required. Call us Today! 866-396-0515

DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG CANCER? You may qualify for a substantial cash awardeven with smoking history. NO obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 1-888-650-9135

Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-866-518-8391

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-553-1891 www. dental50plus.com/macnet #6258 Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-844-3175246

Vivint. Smart security. Professionally installed. One connected system for total peace of mind. FREE professional installation.Four FREE months of monitoring! Call now to customize your system. 1-855-870-2073

Safe Step. North America ’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-ofthe-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-356-1954

The Generac PWRcell, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-866-783-0292

The bathroom of your dreams for as little as $149/month! BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Limited Time Offer - FREE virtual in-home consultation now and SAVE 15%! Call Today! 1-877-540-2780

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options Request a FREE Quote – Call now before the next power outage: 1-855-465-7624

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855791-1626

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the Most Local MLB Games! CHOICE Package, $89.99/mo for 12 months. Stream on 20 devices in your home at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-629-6086

Need IRS Relief $10K - $125K+ Get Fresh Start or Forgiveness Call 1-877-705-1472 Monday through Friday 7AM-5PM PST

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/21/23. 1-866-590-5561

Are you receiving SSDI/SSI Benefits? You may be eligible for additional benefits. CALL US TODAY Citizen Disability 1-888-4906616

Attention Viagra users: Generic 100 mg blue pills or generic 20 mg yellow pills. Get 45 plus 5 free $99 + S/H. Call Today 1-877707-5518

Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 888-965-0363

WANTED! MOTORCYCLES! ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC. Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Triumph, BSA, and other foreign models. $$PAYING CA$H$$ 717-577-8206 Krmiller1965@yahoo.com

**American and Foreign** Any Condition. Buying entire car collections. $$PAYING CA$H$$ Please call 717-577-8206 Krmiller1965@yahoo.com