Mt Olive Life December 23

M t . O l i v e’s H o m e t o w n N e w s p a p e r

MOUNT OLIVE LIFE Vo l . 1 8 • I s s u e 1 2

December 2023

Member of Mid-Atlantic Community Papers • Association of Community Publishers • Mt. Olive Chamber of Commerce AUDITED BY CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL (CVC), ST. LOUIS, MO.

Mount Olive First Responders Give Back for the Holidays

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - In addition to the outstanding job Mount Olive Township first responders do year-round by keeping a watchful eye over the community, the police and fire departments and first aid squads also do something special for the community for the holiday season.

Michael Spitzer was named Chief of the Mount Olive Police Department on December 1, and is in his 30th year on the force.

Spitzer said, “Giving back is an extremely important part of our agency and our employees. Giving back and donating have been a strong part of our culture and identity my entire career. The members of the Mount Olive Township Police Department take great pride and reward giving back to the

community. This is very evident in our many Community Outreach efforts and initiatives.

Our National Night Out event that is held on the first Tuesday in August is a perfect example of this. Other successful programs that we provide are Keeping Seniors Safe, Coffee With A Cop, LEAD, and our Internship & Ride Along Programs.”

And during the holidays, members of the police department can be seen celebrating the holidays with the community in many special ways.

“Our department has participated in many efforts to donate during the holidays,” Spitzer said, reaching back over three decades. “For many years, starting in the 1990’s, then Chief of Police Charlie Brown coordinated a holiday gift drive

for the Easton Orphanage in Pennsylvania. He would dress as Santa Claus and deliver the presents to the children annually. After his passing in 1999, (Ret.) Sgt. Jeff Kalafut and (Ret.) Sgt. Carl Mase carried on that tradition for many years thereafter. Another effort that our Communications Officer William “Storm” Shawl has led the past few years is the annual Christmas Food Drive through our Social Services. Each year Storm coordinates and collects the donation of several holiday meals from our employees for families in need in our community. Another great giving event that MOPD participates in during the holidays is the annual Goryeb Childrens’ Hospital Gift Drive. Last year, OfPLEASE SEE FIRST RESPONDERS, PAGE 2

Budd Lake Teen Saves Mom From Choking

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - When it comes to learning life-saving techniques, a local mom and grandma are grateful and proud that their family member used his hands-on skills to save a life. Mt. Olive Middle School student Caleb Mann, 14, of Budd Lake recently saved his mom, Ashley James, from choking on a cucumber. On the evening of October 14, Mann was at the right place at the right time, acted quickly and used his knowledge.

James, 39, of Budd Lake shares her life-saving experience.

“I was enjoying a snack of cucumbers when one became lodged in my throat,” explains James, a manager of Category Platforms at Nestlè Health Science. “I began hitting the table and frantically got up to grab the LifeVac Chocking Rescue Device that I purchased for such emergencies. Caleb was watching TV and heard me scrambling, when he jumped up and said ‘mommy are you ok? Are you chocking?’

“He immediately jumped into action and proceeded to give me the Heimlich,” she continues. “I was so shocked. I had no idea he knew the Heimlich, or that we was strong enough to lift me. After several attempts the cucumber was dislodged. I was in tears, I was so relieved, proud and grateful for Caleb being there and knowing exactly what to do.”

James was in the kitchen while her son was in the den when the incident occurred.

She is thankful that her son learned how to do the Heimlich maneuver in health class at MOMS while looking at YouTube videos.

Scared, proud and grateful are the emotions James uses to describe her reaction.

It was a scary experience that could have resulted much differently without knowledge of these life-saving techniques.

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“I was scared,” says James.

“I thought about if Caleb didn’t know what to do, my children could have watched me struggle until help came, and if it would come in time.”

She was also so “Proud: He was so calm in the face of an emergency,” she says. “He didn’t panic, and he leaped right into action and saved me.

“Grateful: My baby saved my life,” adds James. “After the Heimlich I cried in Caleb’s arms. I was so vulnerable and admittedly scared.”

Her son, meanwhile, said “his first reaction to me choking was fear. He thought to himself, ‘I have to help my mom.’

When the food was dislodged, he felt relief that I was ok.”

James’s mom, meanwhile, Esther James, is so proud of her grandson that she shares the news on a Mt. Olive Facebook page.

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“Esther was extremely proud,” says James. “She’s been telling anyone who would listen about her grandson saving her baby.”

Shares Esther James on Facebook, “Giving Mt. Olive school a big fat . Yesterday my 14-year-old grandson had to do the Heimlich on his mom!

He literally saved her life using this maneuver that he learned in school! We are so proud of him and love these lessons that make a real difference and are so valuable. Shout out to the educators for making a difference in this family today and forever!”

What life lessons can we learn from this incident? “The Heimlich maneuver saves lives,” says Ashley James. “It’s a skill every teen/young adult should learn to prevent avoidable accidents, injuries or even death.”

Flanders Fire and Santa Claus are ready for the Toys for Tots toy drive (courtesy of the Mount Olive Fire Department)

Puncheons Fundraiser Lead The Way To Greater Trails

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - “Community change always comes from a group of motivated people who care deeply about their place in the world,” ~ Amy Camp, author of “Deciding on Trails: 7 Practices of Healthy Trail Towns.”

Who knew that by 2023, Mt. Olive would have seven trails in its borders for people to walk, hike and explore?

The Mt. Olive Open Space Committee has been knocking on that door for some time now and the paths have been cleaned, maintained and are constantly improving with even greater opportunity abounding.

With its current Trail Improvement Project, the Open Space Committee is fundraising to lay puncheons along the trails to span wet areas. Puncheons are low, wooden structures or walkways to bridge boulder fields or cross small streams.

“We will eventually need a total of 100 puncheons for the seven trails,” says Robert Delpizzo, Mt. Olive Twp. Open Space Committee chair. “We will concentrate on some of the more trafficked trails first, such as the White and Orange trails in Turkey Brook Park.”

According to Delpizzo of Flanders, the first set of puncheons were built in July using the town’s Open Space budget.

Then Alan Fulton, a member of the Environmental Commission who also attends Open Space meeting and volunteers, proposed the idea of having a sponsorship to defray the cost, says Delpizzo.

The Trail Improvement Project involves the purchasing of the lumber, building and placing the puncheons on the trail, he adds. Members of the Open Space Committee, volunteers, and the Mt. Olive Dept. of Public Works then lay the puncheons on the trails.

“This is a fundraiser, and the money will go directly to purchase the material and pay for the engraving of the sponsors’ name,” explains Delpizzo.

“The cost is $65 per puncheon, to cover the material and engraving. Sponsors will get their name engraved in 3-inch letters on the puncheon.”

As a member of the Open Space Committee for the past 12 years and a bachelor’s in environmental studies, Delpizzo has a deeper understanding as to how these trails can benefit the community.

“Hiking trails have been proven to be a good investment as it attracts potential residents who want a mix of commercial and recreational areas,” says Delpizzo. “In addition to the obvious health benefits, trails help to bring in business to the town from non-residents who hike these trails as well. Hikers will frequent restaurants or other businesses while visiting.”

As far as upcoming projects go, woods and branches are helping to lead the way.

“Currently we are GPS mapping some trails to ensure non-encroachment to private properties,” says Delpizzo.

“In addition, we have advised on purchasing some properties that would add to our open space and connect certain trails with other towns.”

With the puncheons, anyone can be a sponsor and volunteer.

“The first thing needed is sponsorship to buy the mate-

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Volunteers participate in a trail day to install puncheons on School House Lane on July 10.

rials,” he says. “Once enough material is collected, we will schedule a build day for one of the trails.”

Contact Open Space at mtotrails@gmail.com. Checks must be payable to Mount Olive Township.

“The bottom-line is that having a town full of people who are excited about their community and trail system is an important component of the trail economy.”~ Amy Camp.

Future Looks Bright for MOHS Football Team

Page 2 • December 2023 • Mount Olive Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - Great leadership and good depth kept the Mt. Olive High School Varsity Football Team running this past season and becoming state sectional champs.

With a final record of 11 wins and two losses, the Marauders final touchdown was on Friday November 17 in the state group 4 semifinal against Ramapo when it lost 24-19.

What a close game it was and

BY EVAN WECHMAN STAFF WRITER MOUNT OLIVE - This fall many students are coming out to see the Mount Olive High School Football Team take on their rivals. However, there is something a bit different this time around. A former female soccer player, Izzy Kolbusz is kicking field goals for the Marauders, and everyone is cheering for her.

Although Kolbusz, a 5’11 senior female is participating in a contact sport, she doesn’t feel she is breaking any barriers. Times have changed and she is fully aware.

“I don’t think I’m starting a trend. I think I’m hopping on one,” she says. She notes there is a female football player in nearby Chatham who is getting support from her community as well.

Kolbusz is a competitive athlete and is no stranger to fierce competition. She has been playing soccer at a high level since the first grade and was to lead the varsity squad

a great effort by the players and coaches in their attempt to advance to the north regional championship.

“We have great leadership with our senior class and honesty on all the grade levels,” said MOHS head varsity football coach Brian O’Connor. “We are fortunate to have some good depth at all our skill positions and lots of experienced players because we

were so young last year and had so many injuries as well.

Specifically, though our offensive and defensive lines are very big and strong and have been playing very well as a unit.”

A five month stretch, the MOHS football team kicks off its season in the summer.

“We started training for this season in mid-June and went through the summer with strength and conditioning, practices and 7on7’s all summer long,” described O’Connor, a Mt. Olive resident for

13 years and MOHS teacher for the past eight years.

He provides some history of the team and highlights from the season.

“As for the strengths of this team, Aidan Lynch is our biggest recruit on this current team and is verbally committed to Virginia Tech, but he had over 30 offers from other D1 schools,” said O’Connor. “Our most famous recent graduate or player is Liam Anderson who is playing with the Indianapolis Colts right now.

He was the captain of the 2017

team which lost in the state finals.

“Previously we made the playoffs for five years in a row and won our conference twice in that span. Mt. Olive had won a state sectional title in 2002.”

“I think the biggest challenge this year was just believing in themselves again after a disappointing season last year,” said O’Connor. “As for the future I think it looks bright because we will have several key players coming back next year and our JV

team went undefeated and our frosh team was 7-2.”

Before coaching in Mt. Olive, O’Connor was head coach at Wayne Valley High School for 12 years with a two-year stint in between at Hanover Park High School as the offensive coordinator.

He too played football at Hanover Park HS where he was an all-state lineman and continued to play at the collegiate level at Boston College on a full scholarship. He was recruited by former NY Giant Head Coach Tom Coughlin.

this season as the goalkeeper. Kolbusz explains she still loves the sport but wanted to give football a try.

She probably knows more about football than most of her soccer teammates because she grew up watching the sport.

Her father played for Montclair State as a lineman and helped introduce his daughter to the game. Then, when a flag football league launched in the area about a year ago, the former soccer goalie signed up right away.

From there, things kept pointing Kolbusz in the direction of football. After all the kickers graduated on the Varsity football team, a couple of players and coaches saw Kolbusz nail a 40-yard field goal when she was helping coach some kids during a football camp. When that kick went straight through the uprights, the football team knew they had to have her.

Though the decision was

difficult because of her passion for soccer, the support from the community helped her give it a shot. She is not disappointed as she has noticed her development as a kicker to this point. Kolbusz gives high praise to Assistant Coach Mark Hazen for providing her with sound advice on her approach to kicking. “He taught me soccer definitely helps but football is different.,” she says. “Football is a game of inches and a more precise sport.”

Like all great athletes, male or female, Kolbusz has a clear focus while playing.

“You can’t think too much but you have to think,” she says.

For Kolbusz, whether she is playing football or soccer, she wants to stay loose and go with her instincts.

The player, who is wise beyond her years acknowledges her success comes from her family, the football players, and even her friends from the

soccer team. She hopes to continue playing soccer next year at college while studying science. She has not committed to a specific university yet but is looking forward to playing intramurals or club soccer when she is not hitting the books.

“The experience has been very rewarding and has helped push myself outside my comfort zone”, she says.

Director of Athletics, Colleen Suflay, has been impressed with Kolbusz and the school.

According to her, “overall, supporting Izzy was simple, as we support all athletes across all platforms.

Significant factors are folded into such a substantial and courageous decision; it benefits the individual athlete. In this case, Izzy demonstrated great courage and resolve and learned an incredible new skill. She also put herself into an environment that would fine-tune her

social and emotional skills.

From an athletic perspective, it contributes to a more inclusive, diverse, and progressive athletic department. It sends

a powerful message about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and promoting equal opportunities for all athletes.”

events for recognition in camaraderie, pride, and honor. Flanders Fire holds a Toys for Tots drive that includes a guest appearance from Santa as he rolls into town on the Marine Corps Toys for Tots train, also known as ‘Operation Toy Train,’ which

is scheduled to arrive at 1:00 p.m. on December 16 at Flanders Fire & Rescue Company #1, 27 Main Street in Flanders. Flanders Fire & Rescue also takes pride in giving back by assisting in the delivery of Thanksgiving meals that the

incumbent Mayor Joe Nicastro and wife Mary Lalama orchestrate and have run for the last eight years.”

And, of course, Mount Olive Fire and EMS Departments are always available during the year to do what they do best.

“All emergency services within the Township of Mount Olive pride themselves on giving back to the community, and they serve each and every call they respond to being 100% volunteer,” Wargo stated proudly.

Mount Olive High School Welcomes First Female Football Player

First Responders...

FROM FRONT PAGE ficer Tyler Mullooly and Sgt. Bill Gremmo coordinated the collection of gifts from our employees for this amazing event.

This year, Sgt. Gremmo will lead this effort for the holiday season.”

The Mount Olive Township Police Department will be hosting one of their Coffee With A Cop events at the Toys For Tots Train event in Flanders on December 16th from 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m.

Tyler Wargo is in his first full year as Fire Department and EMS Director for the Township of Mount Olive and has served a total of 22 years.

He said, “The most rewarding thing is to see all the smiles on the faces of the children and adults in the town when events are held. That is the true spirit and dedication our emergency responders look forward to each and every year.”

The holiday season is a very special time for the Budd Lake Fire, Flanders Fire, Budd Lake Rescue, and Flanders Rescue teams. All the departments look forward to special events that include the annual Santa Run, where Santa Claus visits Mount Olive and greets township residents with a parade of

fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency equipment.

Wargo added, “In addition, both Budd Lake Fire and Flanders Fire departments participate in various holiday parades in neighboring towns, and compete in holiday fun festive

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mount Olive Life • December 2023 • Page 3

What Working from Home Means for Musculoskeletal Pain

Page 4 • December 2023 • Mount Olive Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

BY MICHAEL LALAMA, DC Among the many changes to our lives that came with the COVID-19 pandemic, modifications of working habits and ergonomics proved to be a significant challenge in preventing and/or minimizing musculoskeletal pain.1 As the world adopted different containment measures, the number of people working from home increased tremendously.2 While working from home brought multiple advantages to employees, such as less commuting and having more flexibility, it has also brought in several constraints that have impacted the lives of workers.2 First, working from home typically involves extended sedentary computer work with minimal active interruptions.2 For example, while working in an office you are more likely to get up from your desk and walk to the copier, breakroom,

or to meetings, whereas at home these activities are done virtually or are lost all together.2 Ultimately, remote work from home has promoted a more sedentary lifestyle and, when combined with individual set-up constraints, a decrease in ergonomics.2 In the Netherlands, it was found that only one-third of home workers in 2020 and one-half of home workers in 2021 had an optimally furnished workplace (e.g., adjustable desks, adjustable chairs, a separate computer monitor, a separate mouse, etc.) to promote good posture.2 In a separate study of at home set-ups, they found that 40.9% of workers did not use an office desk; among them, 65.3% used a kitchen or a dining room table, 20% used a living room table, and the remaining 14.7% used a makeshift table (e.g., a chest

of drawers) instead.1 The utilization of incorrect or suboptimal equipment/furniture directly correlates with reduced ergonomics. But even when ergonomic and adaptable furniture is available, workers do not always install and/or use the furniture appropriately.2 In addition, over half of at home workers have reported working longer hours than when they were in the office.1 Not only are at home workers at an increased risk for musculoskeletal pain based on workspaces that are not ergonomically installed, they are now also sitting for more hours than at the office.2 This ultimately increases the likelihood of pain in any region of the spine; in fact, working from home was associated with a higher risk of low back pain, upper back pain, neck pain, shoulder and/or arm pain compared to working

community of believers meeting up to pray is powerful. A community of faith is mandated to pray for others. So essentially, we will be praying for needs in the community.

Leaders in the community. We will be praying for the state of N.J. and the U.S.A. as well as world issues as they come up.”

Orji has attended Mountaintop Church on Naughright Rd. for the past 20 years. with Pastor Matthew Jones as the Senior Pastor. She shares a story of fate: When she lived in Jersey City she attended the First Assembly of God in Bayonne and Pastor Jones happened to be a guest speaker there in 1999.

“I prayed for him to be my pastor,” she recalls, as that was her first time meeting him.

After 9/11, Orji wanted to move away from Jersey City.

She fancied the western part of N.J. after she discovered the area while her daughter attended Camp Bernie in Washington. She wound up buying a house in Woodfield in 2003, and the following Sunday after they moved into their new home, they attended Mountaintop Church. What a blessing it was when she realized that Pastor Jones is the religious leader there.

“Prayers have been answered to me a lot!” says Orji.

A strong believer in the power of prayer, Orji figures why not pray anywhere and

everywhere.

“The Pop Up Prayer is beneficial to the community because we will be actively praying for not only perhaps individual needs of the people who are participating, but also for services to Mt. Olive, improvement of certain issues as well as for the first aid squad, the police as well as the fire department,” she says. “I know that they need more volunteers.

There’s always a sign on 46 saying they need more people.

“We will also be praying for the Morris County area for businesses to come for people to have jobs that are in need or that there would be programs that would improve people’s quality of life,” she continues.

“We will pray for the State of New Jersey.”

Her reasoning is simple: “God’s definition of peace, and it’s a word, ‘Shalom,’ means nothing missing nothing broken. So, all things are perfected from being connected to the source and a way to connect to the source, not only through the word of God, but also through prayer and through the joining of like-minded believers together in prayer in the Name of Jesus.”

Orji’s plan is to have the Pop-Up Prayer group “be ongoing,” even through the winter. “Once relationships are made, we would call a pop-up prayer as needed and winter locations could be adjusted.”

on location.2 And since remote work has turned previously active interruptions virtual, it’s not a surprise that most workers do not exercise (e.g., walking, stretching, etc.) during breaks.1 It was also found that at home workers who did not exercise regularly outside of working hours had a significantly higher incidence of lower back pain and upper back/neck pain compared to those who did.1 It was common for workers to find it hard to get themselves to start exercising, which was mostly due to a perceived lack of time; however, this is directly correlated with an increase in pain and a decrease in quality of life.1 But even with the deterioration in musculoskeletal pain associated with working from home, most workers would still rather work from home than go to the office.1 So what can be done?

Most recommendations involve taking frequent breaks from working with a computer, as well as practicing exercises to ease the load on the spine, neck, upper extremities, and the eyes.1 This, however, does not address the lack of time or space many at home workers complain of. Taking frequent breaks (e.g., 5-15 min every hour) while working can free up small intervals of time throughout the day that workers can be active.

It is common to think that you need a large period of continuous time in order to exercise, but in reality, even 5 minutes an hour over the course of an 8-hour workday adds up to 40 minutes. While it is not likely to perform strenuous exercises in 5 minutes, stretches and postural exercises can help reduce the load on the spine and reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal pain.

It is always important to consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting an exercise program, and to explore which treatment options are right for you.

Radulović, A. H., Žaja, R., Milošević, M., Radulović, B., Luketić, I., & Božić, T. (2021).

Work from home and musculoskeletal pain in telecommunications workers during COVID-19 pandemic: a pilot study. Arhiv za higijenu rada i toksikologiju, 72(3), 232–239. https://doi.org/10.2478/aiht2021-72-3559 Bosma, E., Loef, B., van Oostrom, S.H. et al. (2022) The longitudinal association between working from home and musculoskeletal pain during the COVID-19 pandemic. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 96, 521– 535. https://doi.org/10.1007/ s00420-022-01946-5

Local Group Pops Up to Pray For Others

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - “It is really beautiful when someone prays for you without you knowing.

It’s the highest form of respect and care”~ A new group — Pop-Up Prayer Mt. Olive N.J. — is doing just that.

The group met for the first time “bright and early” Saturday morning, November 17, at 7:45, in front of the Mt. Olive Township Municipal Building, to pray for 30 minutes.

“We prayed for the new mayor, town council, police, fire, EMT, youth, school system,” says Nicole Balthrop-Orji, founder of the group. “Also for the opioid crisis and other addictions, people with anxiety, fear and depression. Many topics were covered.”

While the group just began meeting, Orji says her idea is not new as she has been praying for years.

“It has been in my heart to pray for the community and people on my street and government leaders even when I lived in Jersey City which is where I relocated from in 2003,” says Orji, Mt. Olive resident for the past 20 years.

“My prayers have varied from people taking care of their properties in Jersey City and the praying for marriages and any dysfunction in families on my block. This started back then as a prayer walking in my neighborhood and in the areas I walked in N.Y.C. during my commute.

“So the idea is not new at all,” she says. “At times I will call a person I know and pray with them. I will pray for my neighbors or the town leaders, the police, fire personnel even EMT. I pray when I see or hear sirens or pass by an accident. It is part of my faith in God. “I have always prayed but this time frame seems to warrant more involvement and group prayer,” she explains. “A

Nicole Balthrop-Orji, center, leads Pop Up Prayer group.

She shared her interest via Facebook and lit the spark, and to her surprise, she found a core group of like-minded individuals willing to give it a go. About 15 to 20 people have expressed interest through social media the last time she checked, and accepted the invite for their first prayer meeting on November 17.

She was going to try to re-

group after Thanksgiving and then again after the winter holidays.

“We’re also going to have a place where a forum in that group we can bring prayer request topics so that everyone in the pop-up prayer group will also be praying for those same issues,” explains Orji.

“The group is a Christian group that believes Jesus is

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Lord and that the word of God is the basis of truth,” she says. “Basically, anyone who is interested in coming to the prayer group is more than welcome. All we ask is that people come in good faith and in peace, and not to debate or argue about any issues.”

Connect with her via messenger on Facebook for more information.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mount Olive Life • December 2023 • Page 5

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This is particularly relevant for individuals with arthritis exacerbated by the cold. By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points, practitioners aim to improve circulation, potentially alleviating cold-induced stiffness and promoting a sense of warmth in affected joints. The increased blood flow may also aid in the deliv-

ery of nutrients to joint tissues, supporting their health and function.

Acupuncture’s ability to modulate pain signals in the body is well-documented. For individuals with arthritis, especially during the winter, the heightened pain sensitivity can be challenging. Acupuncture may help regulate the perception of pain by promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. This can be particularly beneficial for managing the increased discomfort associated with winter-related arthritis symptoms.

The muscle tension and stiffness often accompanying arthritis can be exacerbated in colder temperatures. Acupuncture’s muscle-relaxing effects can offer relief by promoting a state of relaxation in the muscles and joints. This can contribute to improved range of motion and reduced stiffness, making daily activities more manageable for individuals with winter-aggravated arthritis.

As winter brings its unique challenges for individuals with arthritis, acupuncture emerges as a potential therapeutic tool to manage worsening symptoms. By promoting circulation, modulating pain signals, and relaxing muscles and joints, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to addressing the specific challenges presented by cold weather. For more information call Mount Olive Acupuncture and Wellness 973-527-7978

St. Clare’s Health Earns An ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group

ACUPUNCTURE PAIN • FERTILITY STRESS • DIGESTIVE ISSUES

AREA - Saint Clare’s Health, a member of Prime Healthcare, earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog that sets standards for excellence in patient care.

Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30 national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm.

“Earning an ‘A’ Grade means Saint Clare’ Health made a true commitment to put patients first,” said Leah Binder, presi-

dent and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “We congratulate the leadership, Board, clinicians, staff and volunteers that all had a role to play in this achievement.”

According to Chief Executive Officer, Brian L. Ulery, “Patients can be assured that our entire Saint Clare’s Health team works diligently to deliver exceptional care to every patient.

We are proud to have earned the highest level of recognition for many years.”

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital ratings program exclusively based on hospital prevention of medical errors, infections and

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injuries that kill more than 500 patients a day nationally. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public.

Grades are updated twice annually in the fall and spring.

As a member of Prime Healthcare, Saint Clare’s Health joins other Prime hospitals across the nation that have achieved award-winning accolades for clinical excellence.

To see Saint Clare’s Health’s full grade details and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit HospitalSafetyGrade.org and follow The Leapfrog Group on Twitter, Facebook and via its newsletter.

Labow Leads # of Years Elected As Female on MO Council

Page 6 • December 2023 • Mount Olive Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - Getting elected to serve on a council is not an easy feat, but for Colleen Labow of Budd Lake, she is winning the streak in terms of being the only woman elected to her sixth consecutive term on the Mt. Olive Twp. Council.

Barbara Swasey was the other councilwoman who served from 1978 through 1997, giving her 20 years of service, according to Michelle Masser, Mt. Olive Twp. clerk. With Labow elected to council every four years since 2004, she also has served 20 years “but with her new four-year appointment for 2024-2027, if she remains the entire term, she will then have 24 years of service,” says Masser.

And with councilwoman elect Mary Lalama, this “will be the first time two woman will sit together on council together.”

A Budd Lake resident since 1979, Labow decided to first run for council in 2001 because she “wanted to help my community,” she explains. “I did not win; ran again in 2003, won and took office in 2004.”

A mother of two grown children —Jeremy Jackson, 42, and Curtis Labow, 33, and two grandchildren, Labow is happy for all the support from her husband and family.

She looks forward to the next four years as a civic leader.

“Absolutely thrilled,” she says about being reelected. “It is an incredible honor! I am the first woman to be elected to a sixth term. Barbara Swase, a dear friend and mentor of mine, was on the council for five terms and she was pretty much responsible for out Senior Center being built.”

Labow Finds Her Voice Labow knew at an early age that her voice does matter.

As the oldest of six siblings, Labow shares “I was pretty good at showing bullies that they were not allowed to pick on my brothers and sisters.”

Then in high school she got involved in many clubs and activities.

“I was the editor in chief of the high school newspaper called the “Student Prints,” she explains. “I was also a member of the Student Council and found that it was very difficult to find teachers willing to chaperone our activities such as school dances. Then one day I heard some teachers complaining about student apathy, saying the kids just don’t care about participating.

“I wrote an editorial about teacher apathy stating that the kids do care but could not get the chaperones needed to complete our plans for various activities,” she says. While some did appreciate her stirring up some criticism in the school paper, she quickly learned that her words do make a difference.

“We had a lot of chaperones and thankfully we were able to have our various events.”

Local Involvement Before taking a seat on council, Labow volunteered in various ways. She was a homeroom mom for her two sons in their elementary and middle school years; Cub Scout leader for both sons; was a member of the Mt. Olive High School Parents Club, serving as its president for two years; and worked the snack bar at the high school football home games.

“For four years I shopped and stocked what we needed each home game and met with the Health Inspector for our yearly certification,” she describes.

She was also a member of the Mt. Olive Kiwanis Club working on many fundraisers, with her favorite one being the Santa House.

She also volunteered to help raise funds for Big Brother and Big Sister events in 1994 and 1996.

“In 2008, my friend Flora Salierno and I participated in the Pajama Program and collected 1,371 new pajamas for neglected and abused children helping them to have nice warm, comforting PJ’s,” she adds.

In 2001, Labow was trained to be an advocate for victims of Domestic Violence with the Mt. Olive Police Department’s Domestic Violence Crisis Response Team.

One of her greatest honors, she notes, was being nominated and selected as the VMC’s Outstanding Volunteer Award in 2006.

And on March 27, 2013, she was one of four women to receive the Phenomenal Woman Award in celebration of Woman’s History Month for phenomenal contributions to the Morris County Area.

“The phenomenal woman award was so shocking and I will always be thankful for receiving it,” says Labow. “Made me feel like all of my time volunteering was well spent.”

Asset to Council A realtor since 1986, Labow says her role on the council fits in nicely with her profession.

“I have found that my years as an agent and my time on council has helped me in both areas, tremendously,” she says.

“When you are an agent you need to know about the towns and how things work and as an elected official you learn about what families purchasing a home are looking for in their home’s government.

It’s awesome to know a lot about the community I serve and provide useful information to my clients.”

Her personal skills have also been effective as a councilwoman.

She is “caring,” and has the “desire to help people and improve our community, listen to what people have to say and help them with what I can, if I

can’t then lead them to where they can get help.”

As far as her accomplishments, Labow is quite humble.

“I am not sure of any major accomplishments as a councilwoman,” she says. “I just continue my efforts to help when and where I can.” She did play a role in supporting the Trap-Neuter-Return program. “At first I was not a believer in the positive nature of this program,” she admits. But after researching the value of the program. “I was on board all the way. The year before the program began, over 170 cats were euthanized in Mt. Olive, costing a lot of money with no resolution to the growing number of stray and lost cats.

“The purpose is to stop the stray cat population from growing and it works. We don’t euthanize dozens of cats anymore, we don’t have an abundance of stray cats.”

Outnumbered as the only female on the council for the past two decades, Labow has earned the respect of her counterparts and realizes her desire to keep her seat.

“Way back in 2001 when I first started attending council meetings, I don’t think the guys on council were very interested in the questions I asked and seemed to consider me annoying,” Labow admits.

“I noticed that every time I got up to the podium to ask a question or make a comment, all of a sudden I could hear soda cans pop open, bags of chips being opened and some chatter going on. Not from all of them, just a few. Then one day I went to the podium, identified myself, and the can popping and bag opening commenced so I just stood there. Then the council president at the time apparently thought I was done and said “Oh, Mrs. Labow are you finished?” I had not even said anything yet and I told him no, ‘I am just waiting for all of you to finish and pay attention.’

“Things changed a bit after that,” she says. “They were a little more respectful.”

She’s ecstatic that come January she will no longer be the lone female.

“I am extremely happy that Mary Lalama has been elected to serve,” says Labow. “Finally another female! Women and men have different ways of approaching situations. I enjoy the various opinions. It’s going to be nice to have more than one female voice on the council.

“Personally, I believe woman do a great job at evaluating where their time and energies are best spent,” she says. “Running for office and dealing with the political nonsense can be a huge waste of time. However, if you really enjoy government, laws, policies, then it’s worth it and can be very interesting.

“It’s important to have various points of view,” she continues. “Having older men vs.

younger men helps with various viewpoints as well. So different sexes and ages helps to round out the panel to cover as many points possible.”

Concerns and goals for this next four-year term?

As she looks to her upcoming term, she admits “I do have concerns for the coming years.

We have never experienced a pandemic before and life as we knew it has changed considerably. Many people have lost their jobs for various reasons.

Many families lost members of their families creating hardships for the families. These things are often hard to come through.

“Then we had the mortgage rates drop to unbelievably low rates encouraging a rush to purchase new homes and the bidding wars began. Houses were selling at nearly double what

they were worth. What worries me about that is pretty soon people will not be able to afford, maintain the overpriced homes and will not be able to sell them for what they paid, they will be abandoned or foreclosed on.”

She will use her smarts in this industry and as an elected

official with the community’s best interests in mind, just as she has been doing for the past 20 years on council.

“Learning about government,” is what she has enjoyed most as a councilwoman. “Never gets boring and is always changing. I love to help people.”

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Two Rings A Charm For Loal Collegiate Soccer Star

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mount Olive Life • December 2023 • Page 7

MOUNT OLIVE - Maybe humans have ten fingers for a reason, as this Flanders woman will now have two Division 1 collegiate soccer championship rings to wear!

Molly Conway, a 2020 alum of Mt.. Olive High School, recently won her second backto- back Big South Tournament Championship with the Radford University Women’s Soccer Team in Virginia. During the finals of the Big South Tournament the Radford Highlanders beat USC Upstate 2-1 on November 5 at Mathews Sportsplex in North Carolina.

The Highlanders had another

successful season as the team won its sixth Big South Regular Season Championship in program history.

The team moved on to play in the first round of the NCAA Championship Tournament against top seeded Clemson Tigers on Friday, November 10, at Riggs Field in Sorth Carolina.

After the first half, the Highlanders maintained its strong defense with a 0-0 tie, but wound up losing 2-0 in the end.

Radford University is part of the Big South and has won the Big South Tournament for nine years since program history.

At the end of season play, the

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Highlanders finished with 12 wins, 5 losses and 2 ties.

In 2022, the Radford Women’s Soccer Team won the 2022 Big South Tournament and faced off Duke University Women’s Soccer in the NCAA Tournament.

Out of 10 teams in the Big South conference this season, the top four teams compete in the Big South Tournament. The champion then advances to the NCAA Tournament to compete in a pool of 64 teams.

The Radford Highlanders Women’s Soccer Team is one of 31 D1 conference champions throughout the country to qualify for the tournament; 33 other teams get an at large bid.

With 17 years on her cleats, Conway has been playing soccer since she was 4-years old. In her younger years, she excelled as a center mid or even right

striker. But after playing for so many years, coaches started to see her exceptional skill as a defender. She was a lockdown defender in high school and now plays mostly outside defense at the collegiate level.

Conway, a senior, is studying criminal justice. She is the only girl out of six siblings, all known for their soccer skills and success in playing at the collegiate level.

Making her family proud may be one of her top goals.

“I want to make my family proud,” she says. “I’ve been competing with my siblings my whole life and I want to be the one that is great in my own way with even bigger accomplishments than what they have done.”

Advice and words that she plays on: “Whatever you do, just have fun and do it for you.”

Eggnog is a rich and delicious beverage that has become synonymous with the most festive time of year. This milk- and egg-based concoction is tasty on its own, or it can be dressed up with other flavors and spiked with a favorite spirit when celebrating the holiday season with other adult partygoers.

December is National Eggnog Month, and December 24 is National Eggnog Day. There is no more perfect time of year to learn everything you can about eggnog — all the while sipping a cup of this creamy concoction.

Indulge in these festive facts about the beverage, courtesy of Mental Floss, The Fact Site and Tastemade.

• Eggnog likely originated in the medieval period and was

known as “posset,” a hot, milkbased drink made of spices and wine. Even though posset could be a cocktail, it also was used as a remedy for colds and flu for its soothing properties.

• Milk, eggs and sherry used in the early recipes were difficult to come by, so when eggnog first appeared it was a drink only the wealthy could enjoy.

That changed when eggnog was popularized in the American colonies, where dairy products and liquor were more readily available.

• Entymologists believe “eggnog” stems from the word “noggin,” which refers to small wooden mugs often used to serve strong ale, known by the slang word “nog.”

• In the Medieval period, it was risky to drink milk straight because it wasn’t pasteurized.

Eggnog contained alcohol so that it would kill off any harmful bacteria in the milk.

• A typical homemade version of eggnog has roughly one egg per serving. However, commercial eggnog is regulated by

Tasty Tidbits about Eggnog the FDA and can only contain 1 percent of the product’s final weight in egg yolk solids. That stems from fear of raw egg and salmonella.

• President George Washington apparently enjoyed serving eggnog at Christmas, and even had his own special recipe (see below), according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

• There is no right or wrong alcohol to use when preparing eggnog. Distilled spirits like rum, sherry, cognac, and whiskey all have produced suitable eggnogs.

• Puerto Rican coquito is a traditional drink that is very similar to eggnog.

• Individuals concerned about eggs or milk in eggnog can enjoy a vegan recipe made from nut milk instead. Commercially produced vegan eggnog offerings are now more widely available.

• One of the more notable flavors in eggnog comes from the use of nutmeg. Nutmeg is a fragrant spice made from grinding the seed of the nutmeg tree.

Now that you’ve learned about eggnog, whip up a batch of George Washington’s original recipe this holiday season.

Eggnog (George Washington’s original interpretation) 1 quart cream 1 quart milk 1 dozen tablespoons sugar 1 pint brandy 1⁄2 pint rye whiskey 1⁄2 pint Jamaican rum 1⁄4 pint sherry Eggs (Washington forgot to include the number of eggs, so home chefs can improvise or use six, which seems to be the standard in traditional recipes) Mix liquor first, then separate yolks and whites of eggs, add sugar to beaten yolks, mix well. Add milk and cream, slowly beating. Beat whites of eggs until stiff and fold slowly into mixture. Let sit in cool place for several days. Taste frequently.

Tip: Today’s recipe makers may want to set the eggnog in the refrigerator as the “cool place” of choice.

A Christmas Story: The Sacrifice

Page 8 • December 2023 • Mount Olive Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

BY RICHARD MABEY, JR. GUEST WRITER AREA - It was in early December of 1967, when I was 14 years old and in my freshman year at Boonton High School, that I was to learn just how much Grandpa Mabey loved Grandma Mabey. For the love did shine, from Grandpa’s heart, not by words, but by true sacrifice.

It was in the dawn of the Summer of 1964, when I was 10 years old and had just completed the fifth grade, that Grandma and Grandpa moved in with us at the old Mabey Homestead. This was the very home that Grandpa’s father, William Mabey, had built in 1895.

Right behind the old Mabey Homestead, once stood a big garage. It was there that Grandpa stored his old Indian motorcycle. My grandfather, Watson Mabey, had always told me that he had bought the motorcycle, with his brother Earl, during the Fall of 1916. This was just before the United States

became involved in the First World War. Grandpa always kept the old Indian motorcycle stored in the northwest corner of our old garage. This was the side of the garage that was closest to Mabey Lane. Grandpa kept a piece of heavy canvas over his old motorcycle. It was on an early Saturday morning, in early December, that I helped Grandpa remove the heavy canvas from Grandpa’s pride and joy motorcycle.

I remember that there was a window that looked out to Earl’s Meadow, the back acre that was to be the site of Grandpa’s brothers home, for when he returned from World War I. Sadly, Earl was killed in battle, in France. After we removed the old canvas tarp, Grandpa stared out to Earl’s Meadow.

“My brother and I used to pick apples from that old apple tree, when were boys about your age. We’d put them all in a big wooden basket and my

mom would bake a couple of apple pies,” Grandpa shared with me, with a bit of a tear in his eye.

“Fred Belmont’s going to stop by this morning. I’m going to sell him this old motorcycle,” Grandpa said to me, in a most solemn and reflective voice.

I didn’t know quite what to say. I knew how much the old Indian motorcycle meant to Grandpa. It was all so representative of the bond that he had with his late brother, Earl.

“I saw a gold necklace in the jewelry store in town. I’ve thought long and hard about it. I’m going to buy that gold necklace for your grandmother.

I’ll have the money when I sell my old motorcycle to Old Man Belmont,” Grandpa quietly told me.

It was about an hour later that Fred Belmont showed up to buy Grandpa’s cherished Indian motorcycle. I helped my dad load up Grandpa’s motor-

cycle onto Fred’s pickup truck.

As Fred drove off our driveway and up Mabey Lane, Grandpa did his best to hold back the tears. But, despite his best efforts, tears ran down Grandpa’s old cheeks.

After lunch, Dad, Grandpa and I drove down to the jewelry store on Main Street in Lincoln Park. It was located just to the right hand side of Moe’s Sweet Shop. Grandpa smiled from ear to ear, as he paid for the beautiful golden necklace.

Life is short. Sometimes we have to make sacrifices for the people we love. The Christmas of 1967 was to be Grandpa’s last Christmas, on this side of Heaven’s Gate. I think that deep inside his heart, Grandpa knew it was going to be his last Christmas.

My grandmother, Bertha Storms Mabey, cherished the beautiful golden necklace till the day the good Lord called her Home, on the fifth of January of 1989.

BY EVAN WECHMAN STAFF WRITER AREA - As a child in New Jersey, Marissa Mizeski didn’t plan on writing a book, let alone three. She always loved nature and mysteries, but her career choice was to be a science teacher.

For most of her adult life, Mizeski has been sharing her passion about science with her students at The Willow School in Gladstone. She loves helping the children in her class with their experiments and teaching them how important science is

in their lives.

The Long Valley resident has always been concerned about conservation, animal extinction, and even solar eclipses. However, when she started listening to a famous author, the idea of creative writing suddenly came to her.

She credits author and podcaster Elizabeth Gilbert for inspiring her to release her creativity.

According to Mizeski, Gilbert has been urging her audience to not lose sight of their ideas.

She wants them to grab hold of their dreams and follow them.

Though Gilbert is probably unaware of her influence on the Long Valley writer, Mizeski listened closely and did not let the opportunity pass her by.

“This was my first stab at fiction, and I just went for it. I just had a flash of inspiration,” she says.” Once I had the idea, it just kind of came to me and then I pictured the main character as one of my students because I’m a teacher. The idea came from there and it just kind of wrote itself. I know that sounds very cliche and writing does not always work like that.

This was kind of like first time luck.”

The writing did happen rapidly as Mizeski has published three books in the last year.

They are part of a trilogy titled Amelia and the Mysterious Woodpecker which focuses on a young female character who tackles different adventures regarding serious science topics.

Though the trilogy is aimed mainly at children in elementary school, Mizeski says she has a dedicated adult following. She believes some of the rave reviews which come from adults involved in science-related fields are due to the realism of her books.

“I think the fact that it is so real, and the kids (in the series) are actually making a real difference sparks that inner child in these adults who gave me those reviews.”

Not only are adults leaving 5-star reviews on Amazon, but the trilogy has won the attention

of the New Jersey Audubon Society. They share Mizeski’s passion to protect different birds from becoming extinct. The group has endorsed it and it’s on display at their headquarters in Bernardsville.

Though this process happened quickly, Mizeski doesn’t think she is finished writing.

She is considering continuing the series or writing a science fiction book aimed at a slightly older audience.

Mizeski also notes the suc-

Grandma and Grandpa, in their youthful days, on the old Indian motorcycle.

I don’t think a day has gone by that I haven’t thought about my paternal grandparents. I remember Grandpa’s crooked smile and the twinkle in his eye. I can still see Grandma peeling apples to bake an apple pie.

In memory, I return to the old Mabey Homestead. I can still hear the echo of Grandpa’s infectious laugh. I can still hear the resonance of Grandma’s

sweet voice, telling stories of her Irish heritage. Love the people in your life. Forgive, forgive, forgive. Cherish every moment.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ hotmail.com.

Long Valley Author Wins Critical Acclaim for Trilogy

Gizmo and Gadget are Ready for a New home!

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are gentle , playful, and well-adjusted. Both are neutered, up to date on shots, negative for FIV/FeLV, and microchipped.

If you have room in your heart and home for these two snuggly balls of fur, fill out an adoption application at www.mtolivetnr.org or contact the Mt. Olive TNR Project at mtolivetnr@ gmail.com or 973-804-6273.

cess of her series is due in large part to her parents. She would read different chapters to them both and always received honest and constructive opinions, which she knows is not always the case in every family. She is proud they took the time to help her navigate her now blossoming writing career.

Regardless of the direction her writing future takes, she wants the community to know they can do something similar as well.

“Everybody should share their art with the world, no matter what that is, and you don’t have to be the best, but there’s so many ways to express yourself.”

The trilogy Amelia and the Mysterious Woodpecker is available online on Amazon.

It can also be found at Howling Bassett Books in Oldwick, Scouts Coffee Bar and Mercantile in High Bridge and the New Jersey Audobon’s Scherman-Hoffman Nature Store.

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Long Valley Teen Stands Out on ‘”The Voice”

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mount Olive Life • December 2023 • Page 9

BY EVAN WECHMAN STAFF WRITER

AREA - Music has always been a part of Olivia Eden’s life. At sixteen years old, she has sung mostly at coffee shops and street festivals. However, all that has changed now. Eden just finished appearing on the smash television show “The Voice” and hit a home run. Not only was she a big success with family and friends, but the celebrity coaches loved her as well.

“I originally auditioned on a whim. I saw an Instagram popup and was like, oh this is fun.

And then a couple of weeks later, I got the call back and was so excited but honestly, I just think I went with the flow,” Eden says. “I feel like it was just something that came to me at the right time, and I was able to take that opportunity.”

Eden sang “This Town” during her audition where she

could either be picked by a coach or sent home. Both the audience and the judges fell in love with her voice and energy, and she received offers from two coaches to be on their teams. Both Niall Horan, who wrote and performed the song, and country icon Reba Mcentyre wanted Eden on their team, but Eden ultimately chose Horan.

Many viewers assumed she performed “This Town,” because she wanted to receive an offer from Horan. This was not the case as the song was chosen due to its personal connection to the rising young star.

“I can really connect with the lyrics of “This Town.” I feel it has a very nostalgic feel and it describes a young love.

It was also the first song I ever played at an open mic by myself, so it just means a lot to

me.”

She was grateful for McEntyre’s desire to coach her, but just felt in her heart Horan was the right pick.

Though Eden eventually lost in one of the later rounds, she feels she is better off for the experience. She not only proved to herself how composed she can be on stage but received valuable advice from the coaches too.

“I learned a lot about being on a big stage and being able to perform for an audience where you’re meant to be interacting with them,” Eden says. “I feel the coaches taught me a lot about confidence, being on stage, and also being able to lean into the songs, relax your voice and relax everything, and just perform.”

Even if Eden has the musical maturity of some of her favorite performers like Olivia Rodrigo and Lizzy McAlpine, her greatest influence is her father. As a child, he sang in the

choir and continued performing well into his adult years. She says she played so much music with her father as a child which helped her career blossom.

“I think my first performance I was six years old, and I sang “part of your world” from “The little Mermaid” at the high school talent show and he played guitar. From there, I just completely fell in love with performing and being on stage.”

Eden admits she wants to be a professional singer but wants to concentrate now on her studies while at West Morris Central High School. She will continue performing at small venues in the area and writing more songs. She has already released a short album “Take One,” and hopes listeners feel a bond.

“My music is the most genuine part of me. I would never cover a song I didn’t have some connection to as well as my written music.”

The Coffee Potter Serves the Best Coffee – Just Ask the Horses!

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

AREA - The Coffee Potter co-owner, Mike Sciancalepore, aptly describes what his establishment means to the community.

Sciancalepore said, “We’ve been fortunate enough to celebrate a lot of life’s moments with our customers, the good and the bad. That is what I believe makes us so strong and differentiates us, the relationships that we have.”

The includes the relationships the coffee shop has with its favorite four-legged friends.

More on that in a moment.

Sciancalepore and his wife, Leah, previously managed The Coffee Potter – which opened in 2017 - for the original ownFriendly service for the equine as well at The Coffee Potter

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ers and founders, Dave and Geralyn Hickey. The Sciancalepores, along with two partners, Kyle and Wesley Jayne, purchased the business from the Hickeys on February 1, 2023.

Those that Sciancalepore hires understand from the first interview the reason for and importance of The Coffee Potter. He said, “When we are hiring somebody, I explain to them that I view our cups of coffee, that red cup that goes out the window, as simply just a tool. And that is the tool that we use to build our community.”

And that community includes numerous equestrian centers in the Long Valley area.

Many of The Coffee Potter customers are equestrians, and it is not unusual to see someone on horseback gallop in, or a horse and carriage pull up to the drive-thru window.

The morning of this interview, Sciancalepore had seen quite a few. He said, “I have

spoken to half a dozen customers already this morning that were wearing riding clothing that were going to the barn to ride. That is people that are residents of town that are going to ride at a local barn, and then there are the Centenary (University) students that are going to the barn to ride. We are also fortunate where we are, with the location on the (Columbia) trail, that it is multi-use in the sense that there are walkers, hikers, people riding on horseback, and cyclists. We do get to see a lot of customers that come by on horseback, and it is very cool because it is a mixed lot. There is a Clydesdale farm down the road that will come through. A couple of our customers just keep their horses at a local barn that is right next to the trail, so they are able to ride here. One that I think is very cool is Lotus Equestrian Center, which has a couple of horse drawn carriages. Especially around Christmas time, we will see the horse drawn carriages

come through.”

And with the horses, there are sometimes “well received” accidents.

Sciancalepore said, “There are times where the horses poop in the drive thru. We have to go out and clean it up, and it holds up the drive thru line. It is one of the things that I love about the community, though.

People in the line are laughing and saying to me, ‘Only in Long Valley am I waiting to get a cup of coffee because you have to clean up horse poop from the drive thru.’”

The holiday season is wonderful at The Coffee Potter.

“Christmas is great around here,” Sciancalepore said.

“There are holiday happenings, Santa is right down the road, and kids will come through sometimes and decorate cookies. It is a very cool scene.”

The Coffee Potter is located at 24 Schooleys Mountain Road in Long Valley. For more information, visit www.thecoffeepotter.com.

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Netcong Church Marks 100+ Years

Page 10 • December 2023 • Mount Olive Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

BY ELSIE WALKER STAFF WRITER

AREA - A 100th anniversary doesn’t come along every year. That’s why when covid stopped the Stanhope United Methodist Church from recognizing its 100th anniversary of being at #2 Route 183 in Netcong, the congregation decided not to wait for another major anniversary to celebrate.

In October, they celebrated the church’s 100 ( +3) anniversary with food and a large timeline display of pictures, newspaper stories, certificates and other memorabilia which captured memories of the life of the church and the people who’ve made up the congregation, some of whom can be traced back generations in a family.

The memories of the congregation, including one member who’s been alive almost as long as the church building has existed, flesh out the story of the church, which originally began in Stanhope.

The founding of the “church” goes back farther than the current location and explains how it became the Stanhope United Methodist Church in “Netcong”. Church member Amanda Rush, of Netcong, shared a history of that. That history notes that the church started as the Trinity Methodist Church. Built

in 1835, it was a large frame building with galleries and was located at the current site of the Lockwood Cemetery in Bryam. That church was considered the center of the community. Due to the growing congregation and deterioration of the building, another building was erected. In 1844, the congregation moved into a tall frame building with a steeple on Linden Avenue in Stanhope and the church was renamed “Stanhope Methodist Episcopal Church”. By the early 1900s, further growth required the erection of a new building. Fundraising was started.

Abram J. Drake donated land in Netcong, at the dividing line between Netcong and Stanhope. Although technically in Netcong, the church building would still be called Stanhope Methodist Episcopal Church (now Stanhope United Methodist Church) to reflect the membership from both towns.

The cornerstone of the current building was laid in 1917 and construction completed in 1920. The last week of October 1920, there was a weeklong dedication celebration.

The church became known as “the Church in the Glen”.

Rush, a life-long member of the church, shared her

memories of the church which included “All the work that the United Methodist Women began.” [The United Methodist Women, now Women in Faith, is a women’s service and fellowship organization with groups in many Methodist churches.] Rush shared that group was responsible for starting several of the church’s outreach projects such as collecting tissue boxes for the residents of Bristol Glen for their Christmas bags, making blankets for pediatric cancer patients for Project Linus, and popcorn Sundays where donations went to mission work. A member of it for many years, she still misses it, “Sadly, we no longer have a United Methodist Women’s group,“ she shared. Besides the United Methodist Women, Rush also remembered Sunday School “when we had over 50 children in attendance every Sunday.”

During the celebration, there were plenty of pictures and memories to share. Those memories are a part of the history of this church. Rosalie Lefurge of Byram Township, displayed some photos of her parents’ wedding. Lefurge’s parents, Harry L. Koch and Jeannette Lou Reidinger were married in the church on Au-

The holiday season simply wouldn’t be the same without music, and people of all faiths have their traditional songs to sing during this special time of year. Chanukah celebrants may teach children the classic tune, “I Have a Little Dreidel” (also known as “The Dreidel Song”).

The song is often taught to young children in advance of the Jewish holiday of Chanukah to get them excited about the season. The online resource ejewishphilanthropy.com reports that the English version of

the song was written by Shmuel Eliezer Goldfarb, who served as the Director of the Music Education Ministry on the Jewish Council in New York. A Yiddish version, written by Shmuel Shlomo Grossman, features slightly different lyrics but can be just as festive in the days leading up to Chanukah.

“I Have a Little Dreidel” I have a little dreidel I made it out of clay And when it’s dry and ready Oh dreidel, I shall play Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel

I made you out of clay And when you’re dry and ready Oh Dreidel we shall play Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made you out of wood And when you are all ready I’ll play you when I could Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made you out of glass And when you are all ready I’ll play you on the grass Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made you out of gold And when you are all ready I’ll play you in the cold Lyrics courtesy of Chabad.org.

I Have a Little Dreidel

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gust 15, 1953. Some of Lefurge’s fondest memories of church life are the beautiful candle lighting services on Christmas Eve, playing handbells with many church members over the years as part of The Bells of the Glen, and taking part in yearly community outdoor worship service and picnic.

Lefurge’s husband, Scott, shared, “I think of all the special people who attend and the special events and worship services we’ve had over the years. Some of my fondest memories include our Jazzy Worship Service and Mardi Gras Pancake Breakfast [benefitting disaster relief], our Super Bowl Sunday Tailgate Breakfast & Hospitality Time [during which cans of soup are collected for the church food pantry], and the talent shows we used to have many years ago. I will always cherish the memory of playing saxophone and dancing with a senior member of our church family, Art Ayers, as we played ‘When the Saints Go Marching In’ at the conclusion of one of our Jazzy Worship Service a few years ago. “ One of the event organizers, Lynn Owens, was baptized at the church in 1947.

She shared, “In our neighborhood in Hopatcong my parents had wonderful neighbors [named Heathcote] who provided transportation for my sister and I to Sunday School during our younger years; our mother was home caring for my younger brother. I have Sunday School pins that were given to me for each year of attendance…….many years later, after high school and college graduation and marriage, Brian (her husband) and I returned to SUMC with our grandchildren for their baptisms.”

Someone who has practically watched the church thrive from day one is Betty Curnow, of Netcong. Curnow, a lifelong member of the church, celebrated her 100th birthday this past summer.

Recently, she was asked about some early memories of the church. She remembers mothers, including her own, working in the church kitchen for a dinner and she and the rest of the kids playing outside.

She recalled church auctions where donated items were sold to benefit the church. She remembered Jim and Edna Daly, who were active in the church.

Jim Daly would help pick up donated items. Curnow re-

called getting in a bidding war with Daly over a dresser.

Curnow was the winner and still has the dresser. She recalled the Woman’s Society, a social group, where each member decorated and filled a table with goodies each month, marking a holiday or birthday. In more recent years, there was the Grandma Rush’s pie sales, a homemade pie sale named for Curnow’s (late) sister, Marion Rush. Curnow remembers those as times of fun.

Reflecting on the celebration and the 100+ years of the church, its current pastor, Lynn Zaremba shared, “As we look back on the saints who went before us, we are thankful for all they did to build this beautiful church as well as the congregations who have made Stanhope UMC what it is today. We are a family of hope and faith working together to be the hands and feet of Jesus in this community. Our mission work throughout the years has served many, many people with all kinds of needs and we hope to expand our mission work into the next 100 years.

We thank God for our beautiful church building and all the saints of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. We are blessed!”

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Arthur Godfrey – Pilot and Showman

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mount Olive Life • December 2023 • Page 11

BY HENRY HOLDEN STAFF WRITER

AREA - Arthur Morton Godfrey was born on August 31, 1903, in New York City. Because of harsh economic conditions, his family moved to Hasbrouck Heights at an early age.

His parents were poor, and Godfrey dropped out of high school at 15 and worked as a baker’s delivery boy.

Godfrey served in the United States Navy from 1920 to 1924 as a radio operator on a destroyer. He then returned home to care for the family after his father’s death.

Godfrey learned to fly in 1929, while working on broadcast radio in the Washington, D.C., area. He was badly injured on his way to a flying lesson in 1931, when a truck lost its left front wheel and hit him head on. Godfrey spent months recuperating.

Additional radio training came during Godfrey’s service in the Coast Guard from 1927 to 1930. He passed a stringent qualifying examination and was admitted to the prestigious Radio Materiel School at the Naval Research Laboratory, graduating in 1929.

While in Baltimore, he appeared in a local talent show broadcast and became popular enough to land his own brief weekly radio program.

During World War II, he served as a reserve officer in the United States Navy in a public affairs role.

As a reserve officer, he used his public position to persuade the Navy into qualifying him as a Naval Aviator. Later the United States Air Force, successfully recruited him into the Air Force Reserve.

He made a television mov-

ie in 1953, taking control of an Eastern Air Lines Lockheed Constellation airliner and flying to Miami, showing how safe airline travel had become.

He became a strong promoter of middle-class values and spent time with his middle-class fans vacationing in Hawaii and Miami Beach, Florida, former enclaves of the wealthy.

In Hawaii, he helped raise funds for the “Coronation” carillon installed at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, in 1956.

His continued unpaid promotion of Eastern Air Lines earned him the undying gratitude of Eddie Rickenbacker, the World War I flying ace who was the president of the airline.

He was such a good friend of the airline that Rickenbacker took a retiring Douglas DC-3, fitted with an executive interior, reconditioned engines, and presented it to Godfrey.

On January 7, 1950, Godfrey was preparing to take off from Teterboro Airport (TEB) in his private DC-3. He requested a takeoff on runway 32 which was short but faced into the wind. At the end of the runway was that hill in Hasbrouck Heights.

The tower refused his request and instructed him to use runway #1 although it had a strong crosswind. He complied, but he claimed that the windy conditions that day required him to turn immediately after takeoff. The fact is that he was upset with the tower because they would not give him the runway he requested.

His actions caused him to buzz the tower, almost running into it.

The four tower personnel

scrambled for the stairway.

When they had calmed down, they reported Godfrey to the FAA. Years later, the tower chief recalled what happened.

“About halfway down the strip Godfrey flew at a low altitude veering over the waiting aircraft and headed for the control tower. “We could have counted the plane’s rivets as it roared over our heads,” said one controller.

Asked if he was in trouble, Godfrey replied “That was a normal takeoff for Teterboro.”

The tower chief wrote up a report to his superiors citing the incident, as a clear violation of the FAA rules. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said that Godfrey’s pilots license would be revoked if he couldn’t satisfactorily explain why he had buzzed the tower.

Being familiar with TEB this author can say that Godfrey’s sharp turn over the aircraft waiting to takeoff was unwarranted and dangerous.

Had it not been for two powerful engines, and the skill of the pilot, the story would have had a different outcome.

After a long battle with the FAA, Godfrey had his license suspended for six months. His fight with the FAA made him more popular than ever, and his TV and radio shows increased his popularity by the millions.

For more than 30 years, Godfrey kept an assortment of airplanes at Teterboro and, at the peak of his popularity he commuted regularly between New Jersey and his farm in Virginia.

In 1966, Godfrey participated in a record-setting flight

Godfrey’s DC-3 gad a very similar livery and this DC-3. (Photo Henry M. Holden)

around the world. He and Dick Merrill, Eastern Airlines, most celebrated captain, put together the logistics of the flight.

With Fred Austin, a TWA captain and Karl Keller, Rockwell Standard Corporation, test pilot, they circled the globe in a Rockwell Jet Commander business aircraft.

The 23,333-mile flight, included 20 refueling stops was made in 55 hours and 30 minutes flight time with an average speed of 423 mph.

Because of his close friendship with the US Air Force, General Curtis LeMay, Godfrey became such a supporter of the Air Force that he resigned his commission as a commander in the Navy Reserve and accepted a retired commission in the Air Force Reserve. All through the 50s and the 60s he was allowed to fly in highly sophisticated Air Force aircraft. On the civilian side, he flew all generations of commercial aircraft up to the Boeing 747.

In July 1974 he flew solo from New Jersey to Point Bar-

row, Alaska, and back 12,000 nautical miles in 62 hours.

Although Godfrey had a passion for flight, he was also an in-demand showman. The first was a stage play with Ray Bolger in Three to Make Ready. His next appearance was to play opposite Maureen O’Sullivan in Never Too Late, and on the summer circuit in Generations. In 1966, he appeared to co-star with Doris Day in the film Glass Botton Boat.

During his 40-year career, Godfrey received Awards from military and civilian organizations for each flying achievement and for his promotion of flight and of flying during a period where the average citizen had a deep fear of airplanes.

Although he lost his license for six months, the entertainer rebuked the FAA and Teterboro for years on both his daily radio programs and television show. At the time he was possibly the most popular entertainer in the United States.

His license suspension set

off a feud between Godfrey and the FAA that brought Teterboro to the attention of Godfrey’s 40-million listeners. Godfrey chastised the FAA and Teterboro for years on both his highly rated daily radio show, and television shows.

Godfrey would constantly promote aviation to his audiences, private, commercial, and military. He would tell his listeners, “Everybody should learn to fly. If I can then it can’t be too hard. After all, if I could learn anyone can,” he chuckled.

When Godfrey died on March 16, 1983, he left all his aviation awards and memorabilia to the New Jersey Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum. Those trophies, plaques, and medals are on display in the museum today.

In the end Godfrey said, “Despite a closet full of aviation trophies, the only feat which I will probably be remembered is allegedly buzzing the tower at Teterboro.”

AREA - St. Therese Prayer Ministry offering a free Christmas concert featuring Dan Yates, a New York City Broadway professional singer on Tuesday, December 19th at 1:00 p.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Mountain Lakes, NJ. Dan has a magnif-

icent voice and has been gifted with high performance capabilities. You don’t want to miss this special day and you will leave with a faith filled spirit. And it will definitely put you in the Spirit of the Season. It’s the most wonderful time of the year!!! Dan will

sing some wonderful hymns and share the story of some of its history. It’s a day you don’t want to miss!! Come join us to celebrate this blessed season!! Any questions, please call Carol Bsarany 973-2719252.

Free Christmas Concert

NEW YEAR, NEW CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP!

If you own a business here in Mt. Olive Area and would like to network with like-minded business people, it’s time to join the Mt. Olive Chamber of Commerce.

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We thank you for the opportunity to serve you throughout 2023 and wish you and your loved ones a Blessed and Happy Holiday Season!

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ENTERTAINMENT

BY DANA JACKSON Q:I recently started watching “General Hospital” again.

What happened to Jax? He was my favorite character. -- K.A. A:Actor Ingo Rademacher, who played Jax on and off since 1996, was fired by ABC in 2021 for refusing to adhere to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

His character bid goodbye to Port Charles to conduct business in Sydney and hasn’t been seen since.

Rademacher recently posted on Instagram about his mental health struggles since being fired. So far, no one from “General Hospital” or ABC has asked him to return, but that might be due to the fact that he attempted to sue ABC over its mandate. A Los Angeles judge ended up ruling in favor of ABC. *** Q:Is the original “Law & Order” series returning anytime soon? I’ve always liked it

Celebrity Extra more than the spin-offs, but I miss the original cast. -- K.J. A: “Law & Order” debuted on NBC in the fall of 1990 and lasted a whopping 20 seasons.

The late Jerry Orbach is probably the most fondly remembered actor from the show, but he didn’t debut as Detective Lennie Briscoe until the third season. The first season featured Chris Noth, Steven Hill and Michael Moriarty, but these core actors eventually departed the show. It endured two decades with a changing cast, but always had creator Dick Wolf ’s input and that signature “dun dun” theme song in the background.

“Law & Order” returned in 2022 after an 11-year hiatus with former cast members Sam Waterston and Anthony Anderson. Jeffrey Donovan (“Burn Notice”), Hugh Dancy (“Hannibal”) and Camryn Manheim (“The Practice”)

rounded out the solid cast, but the revolving door kept swinging. Anderson departed after one season, and Mehcad Brooks (“Supergirl”) joined in his place.

“Law & Order” will return with 13 new episodes sometime in 2024, but Donovan won’t be on the set. According to Entertainment Weekly, he has exited due to “creative reasons,” and casting is on the hunt for his replacement.

Be sure to visit NBC.com/ law-and-order for more updates about the show as it gets closer to its season 23 premiere. *** Q:Is it true that ‘Big Little Lies” is returning for another season? Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon are such busy actresses. I hope they have the time to film again and that it’s not an all-new cast. -W.S.

Carell as Gru and Pierre Coffin as the minions, the latest film in the franchise takes us back to 1976 where an 11-year-old Gru dreams of becoming a supervillain. But with ambitions as high as Gru’s, he can’t go it alone and will need to find some assistance -- specifically in the form of a yellow banana-loving species of creatures. Out now. (Peacock) “The World to Come” (R) --

Winner of the 2020 Queer Lion award at the Venice International Film Festival, this drama film taking place in 1856 New York stars Katherine Waterson (“Fantastic Beasts”) and Vanessa Kirby (“The Crown”) as two respectively married women who feel severe isolation in the farmlands they live in. Both being married to emotionally lacking men, and being devoid of children,

BY DEMI TAVERAS “Minions: The Rise of Gru” (PG) -- Steve Carell’s grouchy, yet lovable supervillain, Gru, first appeared on the big screen in 2010 during the box-office sensation “Despicable Me.” The film quickly evolved into the highest-grossing animated franchise of all time, and “Minions: The Rise of Gru” was no different than its predecessors, garnering close to $1 billion. Starring

A: I agree. Not only are Kidman and Witherspoon busy starring in other films and shows, but they also work behind-the-scenes as producers to help develop other projects.

This past January, Kidman joined the cast of “Special Ops: Lioness” on Paramount+, then followed it up with the Netflix series “The Perfect Couple.”

She’ll also be seen in Netflix’s “A Family Affair” in 2024.

Witherspoon produces and co-stars in Apple TV+’s “The Morning Show” She’s also set to reprise her iconic character Elle Woods in the upcoming film “Legally Blonde 3.”

As for HBO’s “Big Little Lies,” Kidman recently announced during a press event that they “will be bringing you a third one, just FYI.” Nothing else has officially been announced, but I imagine that Witherspoon, Laura Dern and Zoe Kravitz will be reprising

Couch Theater

Ingo Rademacher (“General Hospital”). Courtesy of ABC

their roles.

Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail. com, or write me at KFWS,

628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. (c) 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Greta Fernandez, left, and Natalia de Molina star in “Elisa & Marcela.” Courtesy of Netflix.

the two women start spending their downtime together and find meaningful solace in their shared moments. Eventually, they find that their bond is much deeper than friendship.

Waterson and Kirby are an incredible lead duo; their performances as actresses excellently sync up to the profound and poetic dialogue of their characters. Out now. (Hulu) “Little Richard: I Am Everything” (NR) -- Known as the

“Architect of Rock and Roll,” Richard Penniman, aka Little Richard, was a pioneer of his genre and lives on as a legend of popular music and culture.

This documentary, which features tons of archival footage and interviews with his family and other musicians, dives into his legacy and explores his influence as a Black queer icon.

It also touches on how he inspired other artists of his time and the many eras of music yet to come. The film depicts a very nuanced story that centers on the fact that Little Richard “was an omni being who contained multitudes -- he was unabashedly everything.” Out now. (Max) “Elisa & Marcela” (TV-MA) -- This Spanish-language biographical film shot entirely in black and white is one of Net-

flix’s hidden gems and a mustwatch for those who enjoy minimalistic, character-driven movies. Inspired by the true story of Elisa Sanchez Loriga and Marcela Gracia Ibeas, the film recounts how a lesbian couple managed to get married in 1901 at the Church of Saint George in A Coruna, Spain. As if told in book chapters, it details how the two women met during their time at school and formed an immediate friendship that progressed into a forbidden romantic relationship.

When outside forces threaten to drive them apart, Elisa and Marcela go to great lengths to conceal their relationship, with Elisa even taking the identity of her deceased male cousin.

Out now. (Netlfix) (c) 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Poem on Aging Aging It comes, It goes, It dangles it’s toes, In the vast land of my brain.

So clear Tis it, It joins me and sits, I can’t wait to tell u soon!

I see You near!

My tongue, it bumbles As it rehearses my tale.

Now you Say “Hello!”

Oh WHERE did it go?!

The thought I’ve nurtured all day! ©11/16/2023 (4:16 am) Submitted by: Ms. Skip Friggle (aka judy; aka Kortryk Devon - nom de plume) Budd Lake, NJ

RESTAURANT GUIDE Embracing Dietary Diversity at Your Holiday Table:

Page 2 • December 2023 • Mount Olive Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

A Flavorful Feast for All

AREA - The holidays, a time for gratitude and celebration, can be particularly challenging for those living with dietary restrictions.

A recent national survey commissioned by Amy’s Kitchen and conducted by Atomik Research showed that more than 32% of households live with someone with a dietary restriction. Whether you’re following a gluten-free, dairy-free or plant-based diet, or feeding someone who does, there’s no need to miss out on the joy of a flavorful holiday feast. With a little guidance, you can not only survive the holiday season but truly savor it without sacrificing holiday classics.

Explore these holiday-inspired recipes that cater to various dietary preferences from the culinary team at Amy’s Kitchen, a brand known for its dedication to inclusivity and accommodating a variety of dietary lifestyles.

Green Bean Casserole For those with celiac dis-

ease or a gluten sensitivity, traditional green bean casserole can be a no-go. Amy’s Kitchen offers a delightful gluten-free option that is even better than the original.

• 1 medium-sized onion, sliced 1/2-inch thick • Extra virgin olive oil • Salt and pepper, to taste • 1 can Amy’s Mushroom Bisque with Porcini • 1 teaspoon cornstarch • 2 cups green beans, frozen • 1 cup wax beans, frozen • 1 cup prepared gluten-free stuffing • 1/2 cup chopped almonds Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Roast onion slices on a baking sheet with olive oil, salt and pepper for 15 minutes at 425 degrees F. Set aside. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk Amy’s Mushroom Bisque with Porcini and cornstarch until it bubbles, then remove from heat. Combine green beans, wax beans and

mushroom soup mixture in a bowl, season and mix. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish or cast iron skillet. Top with 1 cup of prepared, gluten-free stuffing, mixed with chopped almonds and roasted onions.

Bake for 25 minutes, or until bubbling at the edges and the topping is golden.

Lentil Shepard’s Pie with an Amy’s Kitchen Twist Shepherd’s pie is a classic holiday favorite, and this redesigned modern version is vegan and gluten free.

• 1 can Amy’s Organic Lentil Vegetable Soup • 2 cups sprouted lentils, cooked • 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, cooked with skin on • 1/2 cup almond milk • 2 teaspoons vegan butter • 1/2 cup leeks, shaved • 1/2 cup Brussels sprouts, shaved • 2 tablespoons olive oil • Salt and pepper, to taste Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Warm one can

Bringing together loved ones with classic seasonal meals is a staple of the holiday season, and few centerpieces call to mind childhood memories like a tender ham cooked to perfection. A longtime hallmark of family meals during the holidays, ham can feed a crowd, complement a wide variety of side dishes and is easily elevated with glazes, spices and rubs of all kinds for those who want to take their hosting up a notch.

While ham can be the centerpiece of your holiday dinner, it’s also a versatile dish that can be served for any special occasion. Ham is also ideal for incorporating into holiday brunches, served as an hors d’oeuvre at cocktail parties and shared at office potlucks.

To help cook the perfect ham for your celebration, consider this advice for a festive feast from the experts at Coleman Natural Foods, which has produced high-quality, all-natural, humanely raised, no antibiotics ever, fresh and prepared meats sourced from American farmers since 1875.

Start with a tender and delicious spiral ham, which is pre-

cut in one continuous swirl, allowing you to simply cut each piece from the one behind it for even, consistent slices.

Set the oven to 250-350 F, keeping in mind lower temperatures lead to longer cooking times but more tender meat.

Bake 10-16 minutes per pound, adding glaze about 15 minutes

prior to finishing, until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145 F at its thickest part.

Make your guests’ mouths water with a sweet glaze that mingles with the ham’s natural saltiness, creating a balance of flavors. To achieve a unique

Hosting Advice for a Perfect Holiday Ham

PLEASE SEE PERFECT HAM, SEE NEXT PAGE

of Amy’s Organic Lentil Vegetable Soup with sprouted lentils in a saucepan over medium heat for 8-10 minutes. In a separate pan, mash potatoes with almond milk and vegan butter, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté leeks and Brussels sprouts in olive oil until slightly crispy, seasoning with salt

and pepper. Layer soup mixture at the bottom of a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and finish with sautéed leeks and Brussels sprouts. Bake for 5-7 minutes and serve immediately.

Amy’s Kitchen offers a wide array of holiday recipes to help you create a delicious, inclusive and memorable cele-

bration. Find more holiday-inspired dishes and ideas at: amys.com/eating-well/recipes.

While accommodating dietary restrictions and lifestyles can seem tricky, easy tweaks on classic recipes means you can host your holiday feast without sacrificing taste and tradition. (StatePoint)

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mount Olive Life • December 2023 • Page 3

Chester’s Publick House Reopens To Rich History

AREA - In nearly 200 years of history, the Publick House has been an inn, a school, a stagecoach stop and the scene of more than a few paranormal events. In 1810, the Publick House at 111 Main St., was known as the Brick Tavern, and was a well-known stagecoach stop for those traveling on the Washington Turnpike from Morristown to Phillipsburg.

Almost two centuries later, the preserved 35,000 square foot building reopened in 2010, in the form of a restaurant/bar and gelato café. The renovations included 10 suites, located above the restaurant. The building had been closed for renovations since it was sold and purchased in March by Joseph

and Bart Lubrano of Randolph Township.

The Publick House’s denoted Zephaniah Drake, a proprietor of the first line of stagecoaches, built the original Publick House, known as the Brick Hotel or Brick Tavern, in 1810, according to the Chester Historical Society website.

Travelers going from New Jersey to Pennsylvania made frequent stops at the inn to eat or rest before their long journeys.

In 1854, educator, William Rankin, added two wings and turned the tavern into the Chester Institute, a classical college preparatory school. Since then, the building has been maintained and run by a variety of owners and was registered in

1976 under the National Historic Registry as a “historic American building.” The Publick House has served as a “publick” gathering spot once again in the heart of the Chester community, where memories and many tales indeed have been made. Aging and time took a toll on the building and forced its recent closing. Many anticipated a preservation and re-opening and great strides have been made to do so, as it approached its bicentennial in the year 2010. This landmark building continued to undergo gradual renovations in order to preserve the inn and to return it to the community it has served for so long.

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a lot of catacombs and secret passageways, has an energy and a feeling to it, which is beyond explanation. “Sometimes we’d be sitting around and a coldness would come over us,” Mrs. Gregg said. “And then, in an instant, it would be gone.”

Mrs. Gregg said the building is certainly filled with paranormal activity, which even naysayers have recognized. Neither the then owners nor their employees would talk about the alleged ghosts. “I’m sure the spirits are not here to harm us.”

Mrs. Gregg said.

The Restored Bar, that sits in the lounge area of the Publick House has been completely restored to its original state. Even the mirror behind the assortment of liquors and wines are original, dating back to the 1800’s. Also restored is a working fireplace,

as well as the porch, which facilitates outdoor dining.

In 2020, the restaurant and hotel were closed due to Covid, and sat vacant until June 2023 when Restaurant Village Hospitality Group, owned and operated by Steve and Andrea Bussel, purchased and reopened it as PH Steakhouse and the new Publick House Hotel. After extensive renovations, it finally reopened on September 28, 2023. The facility now boasts a tavern-like steakhouse and 10 suites above. In addition, the catering room, which can accommodate up to 80 guests, is open for weddings, parties, paranormal functions, and a future comedy club.

Please visit our websites at PHSteakhouse.com and PublickHouseHotel.com for more information and events.

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE taste, try flavors such as pineapple, honey or ginger. For a classic, delicious ham perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions, try this Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Ham. After enjoying as the centerpiece of your holiday dinner, it can be savored in the days following your celebrations to help make lunches and weeknight meals a breeze after a busy season.

Leftover ham can be enjoyed in sandwiches like a ham and cheese melt, mixed in a delicious salad, chopped up into an omelet for a hearty breakfast or added to macaroni and cheese for a protein-packed dinner.

Find more holiday ham recipes at ColemanNatural.com.

Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Ham Prep time: 12 minutes Cook time: 90 minutes Servings: 32 1 fully cooked Coleman Natural Applewood Smoked BoneIn Spiral Ham (7-9 pounds) 1 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves Preheat oven to 325 F. Remove ham from packaging and place in roasting pan with flat side down.

Bake ham about 1 hour until heated through to internal temperature of 130 F with meat thermometer inserted into

thickest part of ham.

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hauntings and ghosts have also become part of the restaurant’s alluring history. There have been many rumors, such as pots and pans “flying across the kitchen” and guests’ baggage mysteriously changing rooms, that have been told about the Publick House. Assemblyman Guy Gregg, who owned the inn from 1983 to 2003, said that in his time at the restaurant, many guests spoke of supernatural experiences. “There is a history behind the Publick House,” Gregg said. Gregg’s wife, Linda, also said many guests would tell her that although they closed and locked their doors at nights, they would wake up and find them open. “Many guests complained about the same thing and some also said they would hear voices during the night.” The Greggs both said that the building, which has

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When One Door Closes...

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mount Olive Life • December 2023 • Page 5

BY RICHARD MABEY, JR. GUEST WRITER AREA - I am writing this column on an early Tuesday morning, the seventh of November.

This past Saturday was a tough day for me. I called all my dog walking clients and told them that I was giving up the dog walking business. I have a little over a dozen dog walking clients. I love caring for the many pups. In all so many ways, they are my best friends.

My Cardiologist thought it be best for me to take a break from the demands of walking dogs. I often have to pick up the little puppers, to put them on a chair to put on their lead.

There’s a lot more to it, than meets the eye.

I started calling my many clients at about 10:00 in the morning. I did take time to eat lunch. But other than that, I was laser focused on the job at hand, letting my friends know that I would no longer be able to care for and walk their precious pups, when they went away to visit their kids in Squir-

rel Valley. I made my last telephone call at a little past two in the afternoon. After I hung up the phone, after talking with my last client, I cried. It was an emotionally painful moment in time.

Walking dogs was a most wonderful thing. I truly loved the dogs whom I cared for, took walks with and fed them their meals. I was truly like an adopted uncle to them. I loved them all very much. And, I know the puppers loved me.

As I await the final decision of my Cardiologist, as she gathers the data from the many, many cardiac tests and procedures that I endured in the past month or so, I realize that this is a time of reflection, of contemplation and of prayer.

Love is a most incredibly positive powerful force. It is the key that opens the door for miracles. It is the vehicle upon which will provide a means of travel to wonderful places, inwardly and outwardly. I have a

thousand and one memories of cherished moments of caring for my array of four-legged, furry friends. But I have come to accept that God now has a new plan for me.

I plan of devoting even more time to my writing. To focus my energies to seeing that my second book gets published, before I meet Saint Peter at Heaven’s Gate. And, to bring my YouTube Channel to a higher calling.

If you are faced with a door closing in your life, please do not despair. You are here for a purpose. And, sometimes a purpose in life becomes complete. We cannot fully understand why a door closes, at the time it closes, but for the most part, there is a reason. For life is truly a series of chapters that have their own distinct purpose and calling.

When a door in life closes, it is usually emotionally painful. There is a time and a place to mourn the closing of a

door in life. But we absolutely must pick ourselves up, brush the emotional dust off, and move forward in life. To march bravely for a new purpose in life.

Love, love, love the people in your life. Give of yourself, your talents and a percentage of your income to help others. We are not islands in the stream, destined to live alone. Each and every one of us, has been put upon this earth with a purpose and a calling to serve others.

We all have different talents, different strengths, different weaknesses to overcome. Forgive, forgive and forgive. Then forgive again.

God loves you more than you will ever know. Pray to come to realize God’s immense love, on some level. Love one another. For love is the key that opens the door to amazing miracles.

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

ski, who also credits her terrific teachers for developing her creative writing skills, is awaiting the 2024 release of her children’s book titled, “I See YouaTrue Tale of Two Bunnies.”

The book was not written for fame or money, but to help children cope with trauma.

The young author has been volunteering for the last five years at Deirdre’s House, a non-profit organization in Morristown.

They provide essential services to children victimized by abuse. Gajeski is donating copies of her book with the proceeds from the sales going

right back to help the children.

Gajewski has been assisting with their annual galas and pitching in wherever she could, but had a yearning to do more.

“Seeing how much Deirdre’s House helps children, I wanted to think of something that I could do to have an impact and help. I wanted to give the children something to brighten their day and ease some of the discomfort during difficult times,” she says.

The book is a story of two bunnies living completely different lives but creating a strong bond because they see all the beautiful qualities in each other. It’s inspired by the author’s childhood where she cared for bunnies and other animals.

She wants to pass on these lessons she learned as a kid to children who genuinely need positivity and trust in their lives.

“I hope to teach children that regardless of their life circumstances they have to be positive, look on the bright side, and be a good friend. I feel that parents, caretakers, educators, and clinicians can use the bunnies to teach this life lesson to children for their specific situation.”

This endearing story will be read by the staff at Deirdre’s House with the children.

Though the book hasn’t been officially released yet, Gajewski has generously shared advance copies with the children and has even signed a few copies for them as well.

“I know the impact and joy a book can bring,” Gajewski says. She hopes to write books

Mabey Presents.” Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories. He can

be reached at richardmabeyjr@ hotmail.com.

in the future to inspire young readers, while also trying to find more solutions for children at college.

This has excited the Executive Director of the house, Maria Vinci-Savettiere, Esq. She gave up the profits and accolades of practicing corporate law to fulfill her life’s mission of helping child victims. Her passion is shared by the author and the director is amazed.

She explains Deirdre’s House is the primary center in

Morris County which assists child victims. It is through the work and sensitivity of people like Gajewski that they can touch so many lives.

“For us (the organization) the impact of a child helping another child is huge. This is not another book, but something a child wrote to help other children feel better,” she says.

The book will be available in early 2024 on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other retailers.

High School Senior Writes Book to Help Victims of Abuse

BY EVAN WECHMAN STAFF WRITER AREA - High School Senior Charlotte Varela Gajewski loved reading as a child. Her parents would try to read with her nightly, hoping it would pay off years later. Now, as she is preparing for college next year, the whole family realizes the gift reading can be. Gajew-

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Page 6 • December 2023 • Mount Olive Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Ricciardi Brothers – Developing Workplace Readiness Skills

BY HENRY M. HOLDEN GUEST WRITER

AREA - The Calais School of Whippany opened in 1970, and there are about one hundred students currently enrolled in the school.

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

Many students with special needs find success with Calais’ 12 Plus a Program as it helps to bridge the gap between high school, college, and career,” said Ashley Soleau, Communications Director at the Calais School. “Our 12 Plus Program is designed to prepare students ages 18-21 for the next step in their lives in a safe and encouraging environment.

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

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

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

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

“They are on an unpaid internship that will give them a variety of work experiences.

“The students are really learning about work-readiness.

Do they understand what their role is as an employee and how they will interact with people?

We will explain how to manage the expectations of their manager and succeed with their interactions with other students and coworkers.”

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

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

food retail, information services, healthcare, and pharmacy services. This partnership with Ricciardi Brothers enriches the student experience by adding the retail paint and decorating industry to their resumes.

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

“I think they are getting used to a work atmosphere. They do retail work, they help us keep the store clean, and stock the

rience.

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

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

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

In early 2023, a small group of Calais students began their internship at the Morristown location of Riccardi Brothers Paints under the watchful eyes of their supervisor Victor Zywicki.

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

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

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

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

“As far as them coming here, they do a great job,” said Zywicki. “They ’re very enthusiastic. They are nice people, and I am happy to have them here and helping us out.

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

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

The Calais School’s Work Based Learning (WBL) program with local businesses has grown into a robust offering of hands-on training in a variety of industries including childcare, nonprofit, fashion retail,

3. December has historically been a month of firsts, particularly for women and politicians.

On December 1, 1919, Lady Nancy Astor became the first woman to serve in the British House of Commons. Exactly 69 years later, Benazir Bhutto was nominated for the role of prime minister of Pakistan. Bhutto ultimately became the first woman to be elected as head of a democratic government in a Muslim-majority country.

Political firsts in December are not limited to events involving

women. A year after Bhutto was nominated, Russia’s Mikhail Gorbachev became the first Soviet Russian leader to visit the Vatican and meet the Pope.

4. January might be the month people most associate with efforts to change their fortunes, but the birthstone of December also is considered a symbol of good fortune. The Farmer’s Almanac notes that one of the birthstones of December is turquoise, which some believe is symbolic of good fortune and success.

4 Fun Facts about the Month of December

AREA - December is arguably the most festive month of the year. The holiday season and all the gatherings with family and friends make the final month of the year a busy time. But a peek under the proverbial hood reveals that there’s more to December than the holiday season.

1. Armchair linguists might know that the Latin word “decem” means “ten,” which is a little curious given that December is the twelfth month of the year. So why isn’t December the tenth month of the year?

Like other months on the modern calendar, including October and November, December once occupied a different place on the calendar, namely the Julian calendar that was used prior to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar. Back then, December was the tenth month on the calendar. Though its position changed when the Gregorian calendar was adopted, its name remained the same.

2. It’s easy to overlook in a month populated by holidays like Chanukah, Christmas and Kwanzaa, but the winter solstice is a significant day on the calendar as well. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the 2023 winter solstice occurs on December 21 at 10:27 p.m. EST for the northern hemisphere.

The winter solstice might not be sun worshippers’ favorite day of the year, as it’s the day with the least amount of sunlight all year long. However, one positive to keep in mind is that, once the winter solstice occurs, each day thereafter experiences a gradual increase in daylight. That should give anyone yet another reason to celebrate in December.

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shelves. We have color cards here that we use for painting, so they help to sort them out.

They stay for three-and-one half- hours every Tuesday and Thursday if they come through the school year.

“They do not get paid so they’re doing this for the learning experience and exposure.

They’re all learning skills that they would need to fit into society and have a job.

“We don’t teach them how to mix the colors, that’s a separate training role, said Zywicki,

“but they were able to do some things that are very helpful to us.

“For those students who have graduated from the Calais School, they may continue by choice to learn at the Calais School until they are 23 years old,” said Soleau. “We have it pretty much down to a routine now.”

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

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Newark Academy Graduate Makes Big Splash in Debut Novel

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mount Olive Life • December 2023 • Page 7

BY EVAN WECHMAN STAFF WRITER

AREA - Ben Purkert recently had his debut novel The Men Can’t Be Saved published by the major New York publishing house, Abrams Publishing and is already receiving lots of attention. Though Purkert reached wide acclaim in 2018 when he published a collection of his poems in For the Love of Endings, critics and fans both believe he has made a tough but successful transition.

His name might not be known throughout the United States yet, but doors are start-

ing to open for him. He has recently garnered great reviews from The Washington Post and Kirkus Reviews.

He is also starting to attract a following in the North Jersey area since he graduated high school at Newark Academy in Livingston. Though Purkert was always fascinated by words and poems, the education he received there was profound. He remembers fondly his teacher, Betsy LaPadula and her passion for writing.

“She made me fall in love

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with English Literature, but especially with poetry. It just felt like poetry, especially was the place to go for anyone obsessed with words. And I love language more than anything, so she had a huge impact on me and the trajectory of my life and career, Purkert says.

Though the author was initially passionate about poetry, he continued to write short stories and study fiction while attending Harvard University.

After his collection of poems was published, many might have assumed this would be his favored track. However, Purkert was fascinated by writers who had switched styles and wanted to craft fiction as well.

Though he had some doubts as to whether it would be a success, the young author worked for about ten years to make sure the book would be a success.

“My background is as a poet. I didn’t know how to write a novel or book of this size other than to just labor over every sentence and to try to care as much about every word in the novel as I care about every word in a poem.”

Though the book’s success has been felt among both casual readers and literary pundits, the meaning of the book has people chatting.

The main character Seth is a witty but arrogant copywriter who often jeopardizes himself and others due to his inflated ego. According to Purkert, some readers see it as a comedy while others see it as a cautionary tale about narcissists. Either way, the author is satisfied

leaving the book’s message open to be interpreted by the reader.

Even the title The Men Can’t Be Saved has been interpreted differently by his following as well. According to Purkert though the title came towards the end and was not the initial working title.

“All of the book is sort of leading to that question, is Seth going to redeem himself or not,” he says.

Either way, the change from poetry to fiction has worked out and Purkert admits that part of being an artist is taking chances and crossing boundaries.

According to him, “experiments across genres is sort of an artist making art in the highest sense because they’re taking a big experiment, they’re making a big leap.”

Many of his readers are now wondering what is next for the young author. Since he has successfully published both po-

ems and novels, there is again a small debate over what his next project will entail. However, Purkert is keeping his lips sealed.

“I can’t say too much oth-

er than that I’m continuing to write poems and I’m continuing to write novels and I love working in the two media.

They offer me different things and I’m grateful for both.”

AREA - Centenary University first-year student Hailey Tibus has a small tattoo that says simply, “Love Yours.” It’s a mantra she’s learned to embrace after years of feeling that she never quite measured up against her peers. Tibus’s parents were separated when she was a toddler and her father passed away when she was 12 due to cancer related to the 9/11 attacks.

Growing up in a family facing significant financial challenges, Tibus started working early on to help out with household expenses. As a result, there wasn’t much time to get involved in the student organizations that are so important in gaining high school recognition and college scholarships.

Living just two blocks from Centenary, she’d pass campus

on her way to Hatchery Hill Elementary School and dream of someday earning a degree from the University. Money may have been tight, but Tibus had lots of love and support from

her family—her mother and brother, as well as her grandparents—and knew that somehow, she’d find a way to realize her dream. “My mother never forced college on us, but I think that was because of finances,” Tibus recalled. “She always supported whatever we wanted to do. I was always setting goals for myself, and my mom was always by my side supporting whatever I chose to do.”

When Tibus heard that Centenary offered a full, four-year scholarship annually to one graduate of Hackettstown High School, she hesitated to apply.

“I thought there would always be somebody better than me,” recalled Tibus, who graduated from high school last spring.

“They’re going to be better in school, better in sports, better in life than me. My grandfather was the one who gave me the confidence to apply for the scholarship. He told me, ‘I’ve loved you for 18 years. These people are going to love you, too.’”

Tibus decided to apply, and last spring learned that Centenary University had named her the recipient of the 2023 Hackettstown Partnership Scholarship.

The prestigious award provides full tuition for four years of study at Centenary. Teachers, guidance counselors, the principal, and high school friends all congratulated her. Tibus’s family shed tears of joy at the news that her college dream would become a reality.

Now, well into her first semester as a business management major, Tibus has settled into her routine at Centenary. A commuter student, she’s already joined a program on campus for first generation college students and recently became president of the program. Her goal: To help high school students facing similar challenges as her own.

Tibus also plans to work as an admissions tour guide. “I feel like so many opportunities have opened up to me at Centenary,” Tibus said. “The number one thing I have learned through this scholarship is that it’s not just about the money. It’s definitely a big achievement that has taught me to love my story and everything that I have. To the donors who contributed to this scholarship, I would just like to say, ‘Thank you for changing my life.’”

Centenary University Selects Hailey Tibus as 2023 Hackettstown Scholar

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Page 8 • December 2023 • Mount Olive Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

CCM Awarded $2.25M U.S. Dept. of Education Grant to Increase Student Success, Retention and Equity

AREA - County College of Morris was recently awarded a $2.25 million grant to be disbursed over five years as part of the U.S. Department of Education’s Title III Part A Programs – Strengthening Institutions. This $450,000 annual award aims to increase student success, retention and equity by expanding student advising and support services through

a new program, called Titans Track.

Receiving this grant will allow CCM to expand its commitment to fostering student success and advancing education for all students. Funds of this magnitude are typically allocated to institutions that play a vital role in serving a significant number of individuals with high economic need.

Anthony Iacono, president of CCM, expressed his enthusiasm about the grant, stating: “This critically important grant will help ensure every student has the support to succeed. It embodies our spirit of changing lives and strengthening Morris County, the diamond of New Jersey.”

The core mission of Titans Track is to provide addition-

al support to Pell students through holistic advisement, resulting in high graduation rates for recipients. This initiative draws inspiration from the successful model of the Equal Opportunity Fund at CCM, which has already had a profound impact on student success. Currently, CCM has the highest graduation rates for community colleges in New

This holiday season, you can spread the spirit of meaningful giving and deliver impact for children globally. With crises and emergencies all over the world, make a difference with gifts that give back while showing your loved ones just how much you care.

Handcrafted by talented artisans from all around the world, UNICEF Market is a unique collection of carefully curated gifts ranging from jewelry to apparel, home decor, kitchenware and more.

The gifts give back three times over by supporting artisans and helping local economies thrive, assisting vulnerable children in need and making for thought-

ful and compassionate gifts for loved ones. By purchasing gifts from the market, individuals can contribute to creating a more equitable world for every child.

Additionally, UNICEF Inspired Gifts provide meaningful opportunities to make a difference by donating important resources in the name of a loved one alongside a personalized print-at-home card or e-greeting. With millions of children on the move, driven from their homes by conflict, poverty and climate change, you can make a donation to provide essential supplies such as blankets, first aid kits, vaccines, lifesaving Ready-to-Use Therapeutic

Food and more. You can also send warmth to children in need in places where freezing winter temperatures and heavy snowfall are approaching. Your purchase of a “Warm Winter Kit” could provide four fleece blankets and 24 cans of therapeutic milk to provide warmth, safety and lifesaving nutrition.

To help support the organization’s lifesaving mission of protecting every child, consider UNICEF USA’s partners, including Cle de Peau Beaute, Hallmark and Marriott Bonvoy when shopping and traveling this holiday season. For every purchase of Cle de Peau Beaute’s Serum, $3 will be donated to support impactful

programs for the education and empowerment of girls around the world; Hallmark’s UNICEF greeting cards and keepsake ornament, which are holiday favorites, can be purchased in store and online to support the world’s most vulnerable children; and Marriott Bonvoy members can donate their points to the organization.

Elevate your gift-giving this year for friends, family and loved ones by making a real impact for children globally.

Visit market.unicefusa.org, where you can support efforts to ensure every child is healthy, educated, protected and respected. (Family Features)

While often regarded as the most wonderful time of year, the holiday season is also an expensive spot on the calendar.

Even as many families feel the squeeze of inflation and rising costs, there is hope for your budget when it comes to gatherings, gifts, food and beyond.

Consider these tips from the money-saving experts at Slickdeals and Head of Deals Vitaly Pecharsky to avoid overspending without sacrificing your festive spirit.

Stick to a budget. Beyond gifts and stocking stuffers, holiday costs can add up quickly once you factor in travel, decor, pet care, special events and more. Create an all-encompassing budget for the season then break it into segments for each type of expense, including hidden expenses like wrapping paper or extra toiletries for guests, so you don’t end up with an unexpected credit card bill.

Split up food costs. Instead of putting yourself under the pressure of full-time holiday chef (and taking on all the expenses that come with it), consider hosting a potluck-style gathering. Providing the main course and encouraging guests to bring an appetizer, side or

dessert is an easy way to avoid a hefty hosting bill. Send an e-vite with a list of must-haves that allows loved ones to sign up for specific dishes to ensure everything is covered without doubling up.

Search for the best deals.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift from toys to technology or trying to save on travel costs and home decor, make sure you find the best price. Consider a site like Slickdeals, where a community of millions of people work together to save money so you can be confident you’re getting the best deal. With 12 million shoppers assisting others by vetting and voting up the top deals from renowned retailers, your holiday needs are covered without sacrificing quality. You can also set Deal Alerts that send notifications directly to your inbox when a deal that matches your criteria is posted to the site.

Share experiences, not just “things.” Gadgets and gizmos may come to mind when brainstorming holiday gift ideas but remember some family members and friends just want more time together. If you’re considering a special experience for – and with – that special some-

one, think about their favorite hobbies and activities. Animal lovers may be overjoyed with a day at the local zoo and gearheads would cherish tickets to the next auto show. Integrating experiences into your gifting repertoire often makes for a more memorable (and cheaper) solution.

Take advantage of gift cards. A quick internet search can lead you to discounted gift cards, allowing you to save cash on holiday purchases. Or, for the one on your list who has everything, simply give the card as a gift so he or she can pick out what’s truly needed.

As an added bonus, discounted gift cards are typically available even at the last minute so procrastinators can still save.

Show off your DIY skills.

Buying new holiday decorations and replacing worn out crafts are seasonal expenses you may not immediately factor into your budget. Rather than heading to the store for (likely overpriced) ornaments and tablescapes, put your creative cap on and repurpose goods from around the house.

Reusing items like glass jars to make homemade snow globes, for example, can be a crafty way to save. Plus, it’s a fun

activity for family members to enjoy together.

Seek out post-holiday sales.

Once the holidays are over, it’s a perfect opportunity to get ahead of the game for next year. Stock up on gift wrap, decorative items and other nonperishables that are often

Jersey and strives to ensure all students are successful. In the past year, graduation rates for EOF students were 5% higher than CCM’s overall graduation rate.

The grant provides funding that supports the expansion of CCM’s current advising model and the lowering of student-to-adviser ratios, resulting in increased advising

opportunities and activities, career and transfer coaching, mentoring and counseling.

For the 2023-24 fiscal year, CCM has so far secured $31.4 million in grants, the highest amount in the history of CCM. Securing new grant funding results in expanded opportunities and growth that ultimately benefit students.

Make a Difference for Children this Holiday Season

8 Smart Ways to Save On Holiday Expenses heavily discounted in the new year.

Save throughout the year. A handy tip for holiday seasons to come, try creating a fund each year where you can save up for gifts, food, travel and other end-of-year expenses.

Set up a special bank account

specifically for holiday savings where you contribute a small amount each month to be financially prepared for the festivities.

Find more ways to save this holiday season by visiting Slickdeals.com. (Family Features)

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mount Olive Life • December 2023 • Page 9

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REPRESENTING ALL RESIDENTS OF MT. OLIVE TOWNSHIP!

k n a Th !

You

Nicastro

Joe Nicastro Mayor Elect “Focused on Our Future”

What I Stand For ✔ Stable Taxes ✔ Fiscal Responsibility ✔ Energy Efficient Green Community

✔ Safe Communities ✔ Transparency ✔ Sustainable Energy

✔ Senior Citizens ✔ Responsible Growth ✔ Open Space

Who is Joe Nicastro?

I moved to Mount Olive in 2004 with my wife Mary Lalama and our family of 5 children.

Along with my wife we publish Mt Olive Life Newspapers as well as other newspapers in areas of North Jersey.

In 2011 I ran for council to serve the residents of Mt Olive. I am currently the Town Council President and have that privilege of serving for the past 7 years.

When you serve in a local community it is about keeping residents safe, providing the services as well as representing all residents that live in our great township.

I want to keep Mt Olive the great community it is by working on bringing green and renewable energy programs to the community as well as keeping and improving on our open space and parks for our residents to continue to enjoy.

Questions or concerns?

Contact me at 973-809-4784 Cell • jnicastro@mtolivetwp.org

Join us for our council in person meetings in 2023 • 7PM December 12 and December 26 January 2nd

Together We Can Make A Difference Paid for by Friends for Nicastro

John Floretine Treasurer