Mt. Olive_Feb. 2025 all

Resident Turns Personal Loss with Organization To Help Others Gain

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT

OLIVE

- For those struggling with financial burdens brought on by a family member battling cancer, know there is a grass roots organization out there providing some extra support.

Tara Mensonides, 23-year resident of Mt. Olive, established “Make It Work,” in 2011 to provide support to community members facing financial strain. No stranger to the struggle, Mensonides’ parents both died from cancer and are the catalyst behind her mission.

“My dad was the most positive person I know and always said ‘We will make it work,” says Mensonides, founder of Make it Work. “I founded this organization after my dad passed of cancer. I saw the financial strains it put on our

family and realized there are many others dealing with the same. My mom then passed of cancer in 2012 making this even more a passion of mine.”

The mission of Make It Work is simple but profound: To ease the financial burdens of cancer for families in need. The organization provides direct support, ensuring that 100% of proceeds go straight to helping with costs like travel expenses, meals, and other challenges that cancer creates.

It is “To help people struggling with the financial burdens of cancer and cancer created issues,” she explains.

“We are a grassroots organization supporting the local community directly,” she adds. “We also support meals and costs of travel.”

When she first began the organization 14 years ago, Mensonides started with 11 people in need of support. That number has grown to 46 this year.

“All funds go directly to the families in need,” she says.

In addition to her own efforts, “we also use local companies to support for our needs and swag,” she adds.

As a professional— she works as a global risk and compliance manager at Johnson & Johnson— and a mom, Mensonides knows when the going gets rough the tough get going. But sometimes, others need that extra hand for support. Mensonides will use both her hands to “Make it Work!”

Sandshore Sticks to Community and Fun with Annual Fundraiser

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - Everyone looks forward to the countdown on New Year’s Eve, but that is not the only countdown around!

For more than a decade now, Sandshore Elementary School in Budd Lake has been counting down how long staff members can be stuck to a wall. Held every fall, the school uses this fun event for some life lessons and to raise money to support student events all year.

Sponsored annually by the Sandshore Home & School Partnership (school PTO), Stuck for a Buck is always a fun event for students and staff at Sandshore.

“The Stuck for a Buck event helps build a strong sense of community by bringing students, teachers, and staff together for a fun, shared experience,” says Elena Reyes, vice principal at Sandshore. School

“As everyone participates—whether by taping teachers to the wall or cheering them on—school spirit is energized, and collaboration is encouraged,” adds Reyes. “The funds raised support important programs for the school, giving students a sense of pride in contributing to something that benefits them all. It’s a lighthearted way to strengthen con-

nections, foster teamwork and create lasting memories for everyone involved.”

Held this past school year on October 4 in the Sandshore Gymnasium, Stuck for a Buck involved the entire school.

Students are called down by class during the event. All students participate in placing a piece of Duct tape on the two staff volunteers who are participating in the fundraiser.

Kathleen James, third grade teacher and Louis Valdes, paraprofessional volunteer, participated as the two staff members to undergo the challenge.

“Students were thrilled to see two of their favorite staff members taking on the Stuck for a Buck challenge!” shares Reyes.

When the students are called down to the gym, they are given the opportunity to purchase duct tape to tape on to the staff members to the wall.

“Once all classes have participated, all classes are called down to the gymnasium where we remove the standing base from underneath our volunteers and see if the duct tape will hold them up on the wall,” explains Reyes. Princi-

PLEASE SEE SANDSHORE STICKS, PAGE 2

Budd Lake, Nicole Stawicki; Flanders, Patti Forsythe; Hackettstown, Carol T Lazor; Budd Lake. The ads that “Mr. Moe” were in: MO Acunpuncture,

Maximum Health Physical Therapy, Jersey Girl Brewery, Budd Lake Bagels, Centenery Stage, Al’s Painting & Remodeling.

Thanks to everyone who enter and congratulations to our winners!

“I’ve always been community driven,” says Mensonides, former long-time Girl Scout leader for both her girls and former volunteer at their schools and outside activities.

To support Make It Work, donations can be sent via Venmo or check, to Tara Mensonides @MakeItWork-20 with every contribution going directly to families in need. Feel free to join her and together, contributors will “Make It Work!” Her new website is also in the works so look for its launch this February.

Mount Olive Running Club

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - Increased fitness activity and improved health is one of the top resolutions for the new year, and it is reassuring to know that Mt. Olive residents do not need to run this one alone.

Established in 2023, the Mount Olive Running Club (MORC) is free for all ages and fitness levels to give it a go. Members jog and run all year round as a group at various locations, host some fundraising events and have established friendships along the way.

Sevenja Lyon and Brian Gallagher founded the private organization after realizing that running is much more fun when others join in the fun.

“What began as a simple text thread among a few Mt. Olive friends organizing a weekend jog quickly grew into something much bigger,” explains Lyon who has been living in town since 2014. “Little by little, more runners joined the conversation, and before we knew it, we had a whole group of people who shared a love for running together. In 2023, we made it official by creating a logo, launching our Strava club, and building a website to bring our community closer.”

As of today, 58 members have joined MORC. More are always welcome.

“We are committed to cultivating a welcoming and inclusive community for runners of all levels, from casual joggers and first-time 5K participants to experienced marathoners seeking camaraderie on long runs,” says Lyon. “Our mission is to build a strong sense of community, one run at a time, by fostering connections, mutual support, and shared growth.

“Additionally, we maintain a close partnership with the Mount Olive Track and Cross-Country teams, which allows our membership to include enthusiastic young runners and high school athletes who often join their parents on runs,” she adds.

While the runners keep moving all year round, routes are selected dependent on weather.

“We have many different routes but mostly we run at Turkey Brook Park, on Columbia Trail and Clover Hill,” says Lyon.

The group organizes three runs per week: One night run, one long run on Saturday and one Fun Run on Sunday, shares Lyon. Usually, the runs are 45 minutes to one hour long. Long Runs are longer depending on distance.

Running is the main purpose of the group, but there are many more benefits than the aftereffects of stronger heart and healthier bodies.

“We’re all about making new friends, meeting fellow runners, and sharing the joy of running in a fun and social atmosphere,” says Lyon. “Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, a casual 5K enthusiast, or someone just starting their running journey, you’re welcome here!”

Events outside of running are also on the schedule.

During the summer, the group is organizing some MORC socials like meetings at Jersey Girl Brewery after a run and Burnt Cider Mill for some drinks and live music.

“Another fun event is the

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Bone Grafting for Dental Implants

many different kinds of bone grafts. When a tooth is removed, the remaining hole is called a “socket.” This socket will fill in naturally with bone. However, if an implant is being considered a bone graft oftentimes is needed. Variables include the size, shape, and location of the remaining socket. Besides socket grafting, there are other types of grafts. “Sinus grafting” is when you need implants in the upper back jaw, but the sinuses are too large. “Block grafting” and “ridge splitting” are necessary when your own bone are too thin to accept implants. Be aware that most of the time bone grafts need to heal before implants can be placed.

have enough bone?

Bone grafts are usually the answer. However, there are

pal Jen Curry then “tells the students why we taped our staff volunteers to the wall and that all the funds collected will benefit the school and them in the various programs that our SHSP puts together throughout the school year. “Ms. Curry begins a count down and we remove the base which the teachers are standing on to reveal if the tape was strong enough to hold up our staff!” she continues. “Officer Stan, Mr. Heckman, Mr. Falkman and Ms. McCrea helped remove the bases from our volunteers to see if the tape was strong enough!

“This is definitely my favorite part of the event because the room becomes silent as the students watch and when the first staff members fall the room erupts with cheer!” she says laughing. “It is a really quick and fun way for us to build a sense of community within our school and

Healing is usually required between 2 and 6 months.

Bone grafting material can be sourced from various

Sandshore Sticks...

to raise funds for our students and school.”

The SHSP then uses the funds raised from the initiative to fund various events throughout the year, adds Reyes. This year, $680 was raised from the event.

Since different teams oversee the SHSP each year, Reyes did not have the total amount raised from the program since it began more than a decade ago.

But its value goes further than the buck as it provides a fun activity that the students will always remember.

“The kids enjoy the Stuck for Bucks event because it’s a fun, interactive way to get involved with their teachers and school,” says Reyes. “Taping their favorite staff members to the wall gives them a chance to be part of something exciting and a little bit silly, which adds to the fun.

“The anticipation of seeing

locations, and will therefore have different names: an “autograft ” comes from yourself. The bone is harvested from a different location within your mouth. An “allograft ” comes from a human cadaver. A “xenograft ” comes from a different animal, such as cow (bovine). An “alloplast” is synthetic, meaning it is man-made.

affect the long term success of dental implants, regardless of bone grafting.

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One issue that is often overlooked is the condition of the gum tissue around a dental implant. Not only is it important to have enough bone for proper long term success, but the type of gum tissue that surrounds the implants is also critical. If you have thin, moveable gum tissue as opposed to thick and stable, your implants will be at risk of complications in the distant future. Overall health, medications, and smoking are other risk factors that can

One implant scenario that avoids bone grafting is “AllOn-Four.” In this scenario, a full jaw of teeth can be placed onto 4 to 6 implants, and these implants are oftentimes purposely placed into areas that don’t require bone grafting.

It can then be re-introduced into a bone graft to improve its handling characteristics or in conjunction with gum grafts to improve healing. In this procedure we are focused on collecting platelets, white blood cells, & growth factors; it is a common mis-conception that stem cells are also collected.

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if the tape will actually hold up the teachers adds suspense and makes it even more thrilling,” adds Reyes. “Plus, it’s a chance to support their school in a way that’s hands-on and memorable, all while sharing laughs and school spirit with their friends and classmates.”

The program also serves the purpose of teaching some valuable lessons to the students.

“The Stuck for Bucks event teaches students important lessons about teamwork, community involvement, and school pride,” says Reyes. “By working together to raise money and support their teachers, students learn how their individual efforts contribute to the success of the whole group. They also discover the value of giving back to their school and how fun, engaging activities can help build a positive school culture.”

An adjunct procedure known as PRF is sometimes performed along with grafting, whether it be bone grafting or gum grafting. PRF consists of drawing a patient’s blood and running it through a centrifuge to collect specific components.

About the author: Dr. Ira Goldberg has been performing implant procedures for nearly 30 years. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant

Dentistry, a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He performs all phases of implant dentistry at his office in Succasunna, NJ. He lectures to dentists in the field of implantology. For a free consultation, including a free 3-D scan (if necessary), please call his office at (973) 328-1225 or visit his website at www.MorrisCountyDentist. com Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist, and also a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.

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is a degree held by only 1% of dentists worldwide. Whether you require a single implant or complex full-mouth rehabilitation, a free consultation with Dr. Goldberg should be considered.

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Dr. Goldberg treats entire families, from toddlers to seniors. Services include cleanings, check-ups, fillings, Invisalign, dentures, cosmetics, and more! He and his staff enjoy the long-term relationships they build with their patients.

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Ira Goldberg, DDS, FAGD, DICOI

BY CHERYL CONWAY

MOUNT OLIVE - Warmer

weather will be here before you know it, and for those who like to venture out and hit the trails in Mt. Olive, new entrance signs are in place for easier navigation.

Thanks to 15-year-old Lillyana DiPietro, a Girl Scout with BSA Troop 1150 (now called Scouting America), hikers can plan more accurate routes and navigate their destination. DiPetro planned, supervised and built 11 new entrance signs for the Mt. Olive Open Space trails as part of her Eagle Scout project.

“This project is to help hikers plan routes more accurately, navigate to their destination easier and have a smoother hike,” explains DiPetro, a freshman at Mt. Olive High School. “It provides safety in knowing where they are, how far they have traveled and the name of their destination.”

A member of BSA Troop 1150 for almost five years under Scoutmaster Katherine Smith— after being a Cub Scout in Pack 156 of Flanders—DiPetro wanted to complete an Eagle Scout project that mattered to her.

“The Eagle project is a capstone of Scouts BSA,” she explains. “It calls upon the scout to use all of the knowledge and skills gained throughout the

Trail Signs Eagle Scout Project

program to act as a leader and carry out a project to benefit the community from conception to completion. It is a huge milestone on the way to achieving the highest rank of Eagle. It is one of the most time consuming and generally one of the last steps taken on the journey to Eagle.”

Social media is always a great source for ideas.

“I saw a post on Facebook that the Mount Olive Open Space was looking for someone to redesign the signs,” explains DiPetro. “I love hiking, and thought it would be nice to have easy navigation through the trails in our town. Dad did something similar for his Eagle project decades ago and I enjoyed when he took us to look at it. From then I knew I wanted to create something that I could share with my future family and thought this would be the perfect fit!”

She started researching and planning this project late April 2024, and completed the bulk of the project by the end of summer 2024.

“My project was designing, building and installing 11 signs around the Mt. Olive trail system,” she describes. “The signs were created for areas on the trails that either didn’t have one or the sign was too beaten up to

Running Club...

yearly EPIC HIKE, where the guys are meeting up to hike at least a marathon,” says Lyon.

“They are usually finishing up their hike at a local brewery. The hike usually happens in May. Some of us are also cyclists, so during the summer we are also organizing rode bike rides in and around Mt. Olive.

My husband is thinking about adding a Triathlon Chapter to the club.

“Our group loves participating in a variety of races, from local favorites like the Roxbury 5K to a wide range of NYRR events for those working toward the 9+1 requirements for the New York City Marathon,” she adds. “Our race calendar also includes smaller local 5Ks, the Belmar 5-Mile Run, the Jersey City Half Marathon, and Marathon, just to name a few.

“The last two years we organized the Grinch Run 5k—an event full of fun and community spirit—and are planning to continue this tradition in 2025! The grinch run is a 5k for all the club members, free of charge in December followed by coffee and bagels!”

The group has also been participating in fundraisers.

In 2024, MORC held a Soles4Souls shoe drive. Runners donated their gently used shoes and joined the Sunday Fun Run.

“We collected over 120 pairs of shoes for Soles4Souls,” says Lyon. “Since this event was

very successful, we are in the process of finding another charity we can run for.”

Some members share what they enjoy most about this running group.

“MORC motivates me to get up early to run with a community of nonjudgmental people who continuously cheer me on and excite me to set new goals,” shares Rachel Merluza. “There is always someone willing to run any pace, length of time or miles I have on my training schedule. The club has also created wonderful friendships, not only for me, but for Alex (my son) which is another motivator for me to get up and run since he wants to run with his bestie Noah! Rain, snow, heat, humidity does not stop the MORC! It would usually stop me as an individual but I need to represent the club so I show up!”

Troy Costa-Stienstra says MORC provides a “Great support system for running. Accomplished things I never thought I would. Looking to check off the next accomplishment this year. Long time desire to run the NYC marathon.”

Rimma Fehling shares, “It makes the time on long runs go by so much faster and you get to know people so well because you can have deep conversations with them on the long runs.”

The people and the conversation go a long way.

“All amazing people,” comments Bala Yanumula.

read. I added mile markers to known distances to help when planning hikes.”

DiPetro worked closely with Mount Olive Space to label 11 of the trail heads throughout town. There were also 19 scouts and volunteers ranging from age 12 to adult that helped out with the project, she adds.

“There were various phases to the project from concept to design, to crafting and installing,” she explains. “In all, my Eagle Project took a combined 117 total volunteer hours from start to finish.”

DiPetro is appreciative to everyone who helped her along her path.

“Adults and kids from my troop, friends, family, and anyone who was willing to donate their money, time and efforts into helping me complete this project were a huge help,” she says. “This project was made possible by generous donations from friends and family and a supply donation from Home Depot of Hackettstown.”

Looking at her signs, DiPetro is pleased with the completed project.

“I’m very proud of how this project turned out; it gave me a unique life experience many kids don’t get to have,” she shares. “I learned about budgeting, time and talent

There are “No egos, motivates me to do better, good conversation!” adds Doug Cohen.

“It pushes me to be social, it pushes me to be active, it challenges me, in a healthy positive way,” says Maria Costa-Stienstra. “It encourages me to get out of my comfort zone.”

Most important: “The best thing about our group is that everyone is welcome,” says Lyon.

“No matter your pace or the distance you want to run, there’s always someone ready to join you. We’re all about encouragement—whether you’re running your very first race or training for your first marathon, you’ll find plenty of support here.

“And it’s not just the adults who have fun!” she continues.

“Many of us have kids who love running track or cross-country, so our Sunday fun runs often turn into a family affair. We always wrap up with a stop at a coffee shop, making it the perfect way to spend time together. When there is a running event in the city most of the time we carpool and wait and cheer for each other at the finish line. Someone in the group said that it pushes her to be active, that it challenges her in a healthy and positive way. The group encourages her to get out of her comfort zone.”

To join or find out more, visit www.morunningclub.com

All events, communication and runs are posted on the app Strava (strava.com/clubs/mountoliverunningclub); and on Instagram: mountoliverunningclub.

management, goal setting and fundraising. It challenged my problem-solving skills and taught me how to adapt quickly to unforeseen circumstances. I know that this is bringing me one step closer to Eagle rank. I’m so grateful for everybody who helped out.

“Feel free to check out the signs, take a little hike and enjoy the scenery,” she concludes.

DiPetro’s signs are located along the white, orange and blue trails throughout Mt. Olive.

“Lillyana is to be commended for planning, supervising and building 11 entrance signs for our Mount Olive Open Space trails,” says David Ethan Alexander of the Mount Olive Open Space Committee. “Her leadership and volunteerism set a fine example and her pursuit of be-

coming an Eagle Scout is greatly admired. We look forward to her achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in the near future.”

Check out our Map at https://natureintoaction. com/2021/03/10/mount-ol-

ive-trails-interactive-map/

To inquire about scout and conservation stewardship themed service projects within Mount Olive Open Space, contact DavidEthanAlexander@ gmail.com.8

Tax Rebate Program for Residents and business OwnersShop Local Mount Olive

economy. How It Works: Register: Individual Resi-

dents / Employees Individuals- To register in the program. Go to www. PropertyTaxCard.com/MountOlive or download the user app (available in the apple store and google play – search PTcard) and register.

Businesses: Want to participate? Go to: www.PropertyTaxCard.com/ MountOlive >Business Registration (top right) Shop at participating retailers. At the point of sale submit your card or simply give them your phone number. The merchant will process your credit.

Receive Rebates: partici-

pants will receive a tax rebate or check based on their local shopping contributions. Tax credits will show on the homeowner’s 3rd quarter tax bill due Aug 1st. This initiative is designed to benefit everyone involved— boosting local commerce while providing financial rewards to our community members. If you have any questions or need assistance with registration, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make this program a success and ensure a thriving local economy!

Say ‘I Love You’ with Valentine’s Day Gifts

AREA - February 14th, better known as Valentine’s Day, provides a beacon of light in the middle of winter. Each February, stores and homes are decked out in red and pink hearts, and florists wait in the wings to prepare sweet-smelling bouquets for the bevy of buyers eager to bring bountiful blooms into their living spaces.

Gift-giving is an integral component of Valentine’s Day. That means the search may be on to find items that will give voice to feelings of love and affection in tangible ways. These gifts are perfect for anyone on your list.

• Fragrance: Although purchasing fragrances can be tricky, if your special someone provides hints of a scent or brand they prefer, it can make buying perfume or cologne easier. However, there’s also the option of going with

trends. Market experts believe vanilla is set to be a stand-out aroma in 2024, and aromatherapy and feel-good fragrances are trending this year.

• Cozy clothes: Snuggling together in front of the fire may be an appealing prospect for lovebirds. Cozy gifts can include matching loungewear or pajama sets, or ultra-soft sweatpants and hoodies for chasing away the chill.

• Personalized prints: Companies offer custom song lyric posters or framed artwork so that a special song, whether it was heard during a first date or danced to during a couple’s wedding, can be memorialized. Other personalized prints can include images of the sky on a key date to commemorate a special moment in time.

• Travel treats: Couples who love to travel can gift travel-related items to their special someone. A high-end brand of luggage, tickets to a cruise or another destination, or an excursion upgrade on a planned getaway may fit the bill.

• Gourmet eats: Foodies often find enjoyment sampling the fare at top-notch restaurants. While Valentine’s Day tends to be quite busy at most restaurants, a gift of a night out for dinner at another time may be the way to tug on the heartstrings while nurturing the palate.

Valentine’s Day is here before people know it, so it is key to have gift ideas at the ready.

• Jewelry offerings: Jewelry is a go-to Valentine’s Day gift. Vogue says that there’s a strong likelihood that boho jewelry trends are making a comeback this year. Pendants, beads and multi-strand necklaces are sure to be a musthave look.

BY

Held

Fulton

He

people,’” says Fulton.

“It started originally as a post on a local Facebook group, trying to gauge it’s popularity,” shares Fulton. “It did have a lot of comments and “likes”. So, on New Year’s Day, when a large percentage of the planet was trying to sleep off a hangover, we went and jumped in the lake.”

Not a newbie when it comes to jumping in freezing water, Fulton says “in the past, we have done similar things at Sandy Hook.”

Why did Fulton jump in the

Polar Bear Plunge

freezing water?

“For fun,” says Fulton, who is very active with the Mt. Olive Environmental Commission and Open Space Committee along with his wife Courtney.

His attire during the plunge?

“I wore a hat,” he shares.

“It was a cold day, with the temperature hovering below freezing and the water seemed absolutely frigid, but it was not frozen over.”

How long were you in the water?

“An eternity, but in reality, probably only a minute or two,” he says.

Without any assistance, Fulton completed his self-challenge and now recommends

others join him next time.

When asked if he would do it again, he comments, “Absolutely, it was very invigorating and refreshing.”

If there is interest, he says he may take the plunge sooner than later.

“Why wait until next year, there is still plenty of time to do it again this year,” says Fulton. “I would be open to do this again but with our community being involved and hopefully have it as a fundraiser. There are many people, causes and tragedies in our community that could really use our support, and I think that this would be a great fundraising event.

“I think this would be a fun yearly event for our

community,” he concludes.

According to studies, there are numerous potential benefits to cold exposure therapy, including: Depression, brain health and muscle soreness.

Similar to when athletes take an ice bath, why not just jump in a freezing lake?

Cold exposure also can help with mood, improve attention and memory.

It is advised to limit the time of cold water contact to less than five minutes. Do not immerse the head under the freezing water, and as soon as the plunge is done, dry off completely and change into

warm dry clothes. Cold plunging is safe for those who are physically fit; those who have a history of arrhythmias, high blood pressure, diabetes, poor circulation or heart problems should not participate in cold plunging, doctors advise.

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT

OLIVE - Township officials are exploring whether recycling is a waste of time.

But no matter what they resolve from the issue that was raised at the Jan. 7 Mt. Olive Twp. Council meeting, recycling is a mandated law in the state of New Jersey and residents should be separating their garbage from recyclable materials such as plastics, cardboard, paper, bottles and cans. Whether it is a resident, office building, business, school, restaurant, shopping center, medical facility, government building, recreation facility or construction site, certain items get separated from the garbage mainstream in order to reduce, reuse and recycle.

The issue of recycling was recently raised at the Mt. Olive Twp. Council meeting held Jan. 7 by Council President Alex Roman.

“After seeing numerous articles about how recycling is a “scam” I felt the need to speak up, especially because it’s costing the taxpayers,” says Roman, who brought up the issue at the recent council meeting.

“Recycling is important if it’s actually getting done and we’re not just using the third

Recycling: Is It a Waste of Time?

world as our dumping ground,” he says adding that he does recycle regularly “because it’s currently the law.”

Concerned with the notion that recycling ends up in the landfill, Roman wants to know “if we really need to recycle? Is our recycling benefiting the environment? Is recycling being recycled or is it eventually ending up in the ocean?”

According to Roman, the township is paying $10K a month for its current recycling program.

“If it’s serving us no actual good, I think we should look into it,” says Roman. “Don’t like being wasting taxpayer’s time and money for something that is not accomplishing it’s intended purpose.

“At best recycling is performative, at worst it’s dumping our waste with the third world and into the ocean,” he says. “It’s a waste of taxpayers’ money.”

Councilman Charles Aaron followed up by questioning “How do we get our recycling recycled? What does the process look like? Where does it go?”

Councilwoman Colleen Labow shares her thoughts:

“My opinion is to recycle things we know—glass and paper—to make sense of it.” She says she finds it “too difficult” to check the symbol on an item to know how to separate it in the recycling process.

Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko agreed to look into the issue to give officials more information.

According to Tatarenko, over the last five years, the average cost to dispose of the town’s recycling is approximately $120K per year.

“This is only the cost our vendor charges to dispose of the material,” he explains. “In addition to this cost is labor and capital for equipment.”

Prior to 2019, the township was profiting and was able to sell the recycling material but that all changed in 2019 when the recycling market took a drastic change, explains Tatarenko.

On average, the township recycles 2,300 tons a year, adds Tatarenko. The cost per ton to recycle the material fluctuates on a monthly basis depending on the market.

The township also pays a fee for its garbage tonnage.

On average, Mt. Olive collects 8,000 tons of garbage per year. In 2025, this will cost $105.50 per ton to dispose, totaling $844K, shares Tatarenko. This does not include the cost of township labor and capital, he adds.

The township pays 13 full time employees to handle solid waste and has about 10 various trucks assigned for pickup.

Recycling does reduce the amount of tonnage of garbage.

“If everyone threw their recycling in the garbage, the net increase to dispose the material based on increase in tonnage would be approximately $125K,” calculates Tatarenko.

Both recycling and sanitation is paid for by the Solid Waste Collection District budget, shares Tatarenko.

“Every resident pays into the budget and is a separate tax on their tax bill,” he says. In 2024, the Solid Waste Collection District Budget was $3,620,437. The average homeowner pays $322 a year to have their garbage and recycling picked up.

Recycling is mandated by the state and those townships who do an exemplary job can benefit.

“Our efforts are recognized through annual grants such as Clean Community Grants and the Recycling Tonnage grant which last year generated $123K,” shares Tatarenko.

Budd Lake resident Irene Sergonis shares her knowledge and suggestions when it comes to recycling.

“This quote from the NJDEP says it all- “Recycling, the process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turning them into new products, is a key aspect of our state’s solid waste management strategy and benefits the environment in many ways,” shares Sergonis. “Recycling

is not only significant because it keeps millions of tons of materials out of landfills and other disposal facilities, but also because it conserves natural resources, saves energy, and reduces emissions of water and air pollutants, including greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling is also an easy and important way for people to express their commitment to the environment.”

Sergonis— a member on the Mt. Olive Environmental Commission and the Open Space Committee, is active with the Sierra Club, Citizens Climate Lobby and Green Amendments for the Generations, and attends seminars and conferences organized by the Association of NJ Environmental Commissions to learn and network—offers her expertise.

“How we spend our time and money reflects our values,” says Sergonis. “We need to leave future generations a planet with clean air, pure water and a stable climate. We can do more to educate and motivate our residents so that less waste is going into landfills. Setting goals and measuring is the way to success. I would like to see the tons collected each month published.”

Suggests Sergonis at the council meeting, “When you go shopping try not to buy plastic.” Choose glass instead for items such as dressing, ketchup, sauce.

“I focus reducing and reusing when shopping,” she shares. “I use Grove and Blue Land for cleaning and laundry products. I shop at refillable stores - https://www.sbnzerowaste.com/; I am a member of the Let it Go, MO FB group where we swap items within our community.

“The Mt. Olive NJ Community Fridge is a great place to gift unexpired perishable items

before tossing in the trash,” adds Sergonis. “Garage sales and thrift stores are also a good way to reduce what goes in a landfill. I also make my own yogurt which saves money and plastic each week. I am happy to see the sustainable packaging at Nature’s Food Market’s on Route 46 and Naughright Road.”

Increased education will also help, suggests Sergonis.

“I would like to work with our student liaisons on the Environmental Commission to set up educational displays at the library and community events and will ask commission for approval at our next meeting,” says Sergonis. She offers some techniques residents can do to improve the issues regarding recycling.

Check your recycling bin for contaminants before taking it to the curb each week. Use the Recycling and Sanitation Guide on town website- https:// www.mountolivetwpnj.org/ media/19951 or download the Recycle Coach app- https:// www.recyclecoach.com/

Reduce plastic consumption, especially single-use plastic water bottles. Take this Pesky Plastics quiz and see what changes you can make- https:// survey.thinkfieldpanel.com.au/ wcfs/29402 )

Compost food waste since 22 percent of solid waste in NJ is food waste.

Tatarenko shares a helpful link on the NJ Recycling program: NJDEP-Recycling Information

But for now, no matter what information is discovered or shared: “Recycling is mandated by the state,” reiterates Tatarenko. “We will not be stopping and will continue to comply with state statute.”

MOMS Students Compete and Create Sweet Cupcakes

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - The final project of the Mt. Olive Middle School Bake Shop Class really takes the cake as students get to compete, create, collaborate and consume their scrumptious dessert.

Since 2021, eighth grade students of Ashley Antoniello’s Bake Shop class have been competing in Cupcake Wars. In her 13th year at MOMS, the Family and Consumer Sciences teacher from Mendham holds the contest in her classroom three times every year at the end of each semester.

From the lessons and skills learned from the contest, to eating everyone’s creations, Cupcake Wars is a favorite among the young chefs.

“This is one of the highlights of the year for the 8th graders that participate in this competition,” says Antoniello. “They love having the autonomy to come up with their own theme, design, flavors, colors as well as execution of the project.”

While she gives them all the tools they need- from recipes to ingredients-Antoniello steps back and lets her students show off their culinary skills.

“I love being more “handsoff” and seeing the students use their creativity along with all of the baking skills and techniques they have learned over the trimester to create cupcake masterpieces,” she says. “And then we all get to eat their creations, and it’s pretty much impossible to be anything but happy when eating delicious cupcakes!”

Details under the icing

Each school year, about 150 eighth graders get to compete in the Cupcake Wars. With each trimester, there are about 48 students in Antoniello’s Bake Shop class. There are typically eight groups consisting of six students each who compete.

To sign up for Bake Shop, students are able to put in a request for their cycle classes each spring for the following school year, she explains.

“Students may request to be placed in Bake Shop class at the end of their 7th grade year, but the spots fill up very quickly,”

she says. “There is a waiting list for the class.”

While the contest really takes shape toward the end of the trimester, students are learning their culinary skills from day one.

“The project conceptually begins on the first day of class, where students learn proper measuring techniques (noting the differences between liquid and solid measurements), the properties of cakes, various frostings, and general baking skills,” she explains. “Cupcake Wars serves as an ideal culminating project for these skills.

“Approximately two weeks before the end of the trimester, we begin direct planning for Cupcake Wars,” she explains.

“Students are shown several teacher-led tutorials and demonstrations on using piping bags and decorating tips. We spend a few classes reviewing a planning packet that includes recipes: Students may choose either white or chocolate cupcakes and either white or chocolate buttercream frosting; and an “extras” requested list (students are provided with all ingredients for the cupcakes and frosting, along with a budget of $10 for enhancements like different types of candy or chocolates). Additionally, they sketch and color a design for their cupcake display.”

They get to practice some

techniques before the games begin.

“A few days before the competition, I prepare instant mashed potatoes for students to practice using piping bags and tips, as this material mimics the consistency of frosting but is more cost-effective,” she describes. “On the following day, students bake their cupcakes in class. The day after that is the big day: they make their buttercream frosting, dye it various colors, and fully decorate their cupcakes while completing their display. After class, I photograph each display and submit the pictures for judging. I keep the voting open for a couple of days, then tally the votes and announce the winner to the classes.”

Each team gets to design a creative cupcake display that follows a chosen theme. The design must include 24 cupcakes that students bake and decorate. They choose either white or chocolate flavor for their cupcakes with recipes provided by Antoniello. The teams may bring supplies from home to complete this challenge.

Each trimester brings about different themes.

“Students have the freedom to choose their own themes,” she explains. “Due to the trimester schedule, the themes generally align with seasonal events: the first trimester of-

ten features winter or holiday designs, the second trimester revolves around St. Patrick’s Day/Spring/Easter, and the third trimester typically showcases summer themes.”

Students do not need to purchase anything. All ingredients to make the cupcake recipes and buttercream frosting recipes is provided for the students: Flour, shortening, oil, butter, eggs, milk, baking soda, baking powder, vanilla, cooking spray, spices, white and brown sugar, food coloring, piping tools and bags, powdered sugar.

Students are also given a $10 bonus budget for “extras” such as candies and other decorations to enhance their cupcakes. In addition, students may also bring in from home anything else such as fondant, or specialty items like umbrella toothpicks.

“Everything is entirely made in our classroom kitchens over the course of two to three class periods,” she says.

Each creation is then judged. Judges consist mainly of more than 8,000 members from Antoniello’s Professional Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers group.

“Although most members do not vote, around 300 typically participate in the voting process,” she says. “In tightly contested competitions, once a few cupcake displays emerge

as leaders, I also invite our administration and faculty to vote.

“Judging primarily focuses on the aesthetic appeal of the overall cupcake display, evaluating how well students executed their design, including professional-looking icing techniques and cupcake arrangement.”

There is one cooking group of winners per class; there are two classes each trimester. This school year’s winning groups have included the following 8th grade students: Alexa Moscatello, Madelyn Marone, Dannica Bianculli, Leeana Dahhan, Myla Guanill, Artemis Baroulakis, Aryanna McQueen, Avi Zongo, Abdul Ghani, Lucien Echenique, Keyann Sekagya and Sean Conti. Why cupcakes instead of cookies or brownies?

“Cupcakes are very versatile,” she says. “You can turn them into almost anything! Cupcakes are the perfect “tool” to create any theme - from individual cupcakes, to the popular

“pull-apart” designs!

“We used my tried and true recipes of White Wedding Cupcakes, Chocolate Wedding Cupcakes, White Wedding Buttercream Frosting, and Chocolate Wedding Buttercream Frosting.”

In addition to participating in a fun contest, and then eating the entries, the students have other takeaways from this initiative.

Students learn to choose and develop a theme that showcases creativity and innovation; learn how to work and communicate as a team with a shared goal; practice basic baking techniques, including mixing, measuring and decorating cupcakes; identify and efficiently source the necessary materials and ingredients; and practice presentation skills highlighting the significance of aesthetic presentation in culinary arts.

School is better with cupcakes, every bite is a sweet delight and with Cupcake Wars, a friendly foodfight!”

Students Spread Kindness with Caring Bears and Big Hearts

BY CHERYL CONWAY

MOUNT

OLIVE - Students at Sandshore Elementary School in Budd Lake are learning about kindness and giving back.

This school year the students participated in World Kindness Day for the first time. Held every Nov. 13, the world joins together to celebrate World Kindness Day—a global reminder of how small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect that strengthens connections to one another.

In celebration of this day, Sandshore students in every grade were given the opportunity to bring a teddy bear to school by donating $1 to the school’s Kindness Day fundraiser. Its impact is like one big giant bear hug to comfort children faced with a difficult situation.

“Thanks to the generous contributions, we raised a total of $274,” shares Sandshore Vice Principal Elena Reyes. “These funds were used to purchase and donate Caring Bears to the Mt. Olive Police Department (MOPD) and Mt. Olive Fire Department (MOFD) to comfort children in difficult situations or emergencies where these departments are involved.”

The Kindness Day fundraiser was organized by the Sandshore Kindness Ambassador Team, in partnership with the Mt. Olive Kiwanis Club. Through their efforts, The Kiwanis Club donated 50 Caring Bears, and Sandshore purchased an additional 36 bears, bringing the total to 86, 11-to13-inch bears, donated to MOPD and MOFD.

In addition, the remaining $142 from the fundraiser was donated to the Mt. Olive Food Pantry, adds Reyes, “continuing our mission to provide comfort and support to our community.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a success,” says Reyes. “We are proud to have been able to help spread kindness throughout our Mt. Olive community!”

A school wide initiative and first time participating, students could opt to contribute, says Reyes.

A great initiative, the students learn life lessons along the way.

The World Kindness Day Fundraiser is impactful for K-5th grade students because it teaches empathy, community

involvement and social responsibility,” says Reyes. “By donating to help first responders comfort children in crisis and

supporting the local food pantry, students learn the value of kindness and giving back.

“The initiative fosters team-

work, compassion, and a sense of pride in making a tangible difference, while also reinforcing lessons in financial literacy and community service,” adds Reyes. “Overall, it helps instill a lifelong commitment to kindness and community support.”

Surrogate Heather Darling Sworn-In for Second Term

MORRIS COUNTY - On January 3, 2025, Heather Darling was officially sworn in for her second term as Morris County Surrogate, reaffirming her commitment to serving the residents of Morris County. First elected in 2019, Surro-

gate Darling has focused on improving accessibility, modernization, and community engagement, driving significant advancements in the Surrogate’s Office over the past five years. Key achievements include technological upgrades that have streamlined operations, such as the implementation of electronic filing and the ability to pay using credit cards. These enhancements provide 24/7 easy access to Morris County services, ensuring residents can engage with the Surrogate’s Office conveniently. Additionally, the introduction of 24-hour appointment scheduling and numerous educational sessions have empowered residents with essential knowledge

about wills, estate planning, and navigating the Surrogate’s Office. Looking forward, Surrogate Darling is dedicated to building on these successes with initiatives aimed at further enhancing accessibility, expanding outreach efforts, and ensuring the Surrogate’s Office continues to be a vital resource for all Morris County residents. Reflecting on her tenure, Surrogate Darling stated, “We can make things happen right here at the county level. Just because probate had been done the same way since the 1700s does not mean that it has to continue that way. We changed it!” Darling also highlighted her team’s invaluable role in these advancements, saying, “The people in our of-

fice have the tools they need to do their jobs well, and they come in every day with a positive attitude and a willingness to help people. The whole is truly greater than the sum of the parts.” She expressed her gratitude to her team and the residents of Morris County for their trust and support as she embarks on this new chapter, promising, “There will be no stagnation. I’m going to continue to work with my team to improve and innovate so that every person who walks into our office... is going to feel heard, served, and appreciated.” For more information about the Morris County Surrogate’s Office and its services, please visit morrissurrogate.com.

Sandshore Students Build Success in LEGO Robotics Challenge

BY CHERYL CONWAY

MOUNT OLIVE - Sandshore

Elementary School advanced to the next level in the recent FIRST LEGO League (FLL) competition, and are already full speed ahead looking forward to next year’s contest.

“Fourth grade recess club is already “training” for next year!” shares Devon Marques of Mt. Olive, teacher at Sandshore for the past seven years.

“We always look forward to August when FIRST reveals the new theme for the year. We begin in September with the new themed mission and innovation project.”

Marques led the Innovation Project, helping the students focus their research and presentation, while her colleague Roberta Giusto—11-year Sandshore teacher, also of Mt. Olive— led the robot design and coding, guiding the students as they built and programmed their LEGO robot to complete tasks on the mission mat.

“While she provided advice and support, it was the students who designed the robot, worked through the challenges, and handled all the coding,” adds Marques. “Both teachers played a key role in providing guidance and leadership, but it was the students who did all the hard work, from brainstorming ideas to implementing solutions.”

FLL is a global competition designed to inspire children and teenagers to engage in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) through hands-on learning and teamwork. Teams design, build, and program robots using LEGO sets and tackle real-world challenges, they explain.

At Sandshore, three fourth graders and 12 fifth graders participated this past school year in the challenge division, which combined advanced robotics, coding and a research project.

All five of the Mt. Olive Elementary schools participated as well as many other teams in the qualifying competition in November. Sandshore was the only school to qualify for the regional competition that took place in December, adds Marques.

“Because we were the highest qualifying elementary school in the district, MORT gifted us a 3D printed trophy that we keep in the library,” she says.

The qualifier and the regional competition were held at Mt. Olive High School. Mt. Olive Robotics (MORT) hosts the competition each year, with Don Biery at MOHS in charge.

Sandshore Elementary has been competing for the past three years with all resources provided to them including

spike Kits, lego tables and mission material.

“The goal was to inspire our younger students and expose them to coding, engineering and computer science through the competition,” adds Marques.

“At Sandshore, we hold a Lego League recess club in the 4th grade,” she adds. “Students who consistently show up and participate roll over into our 5th Grade First Lego Team and we prepare for competition.”

Students meet two days a week before or after school, and competitions were held on weekends.

Participation can carry several benefits such as encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork; teaching programming and engineering skills using LEGO SPIKE Prime or Mindstorms kits; fostering public speaking and problem-solving abilities.

“It’s a fun and educational way for kids to develop STEM skills while working together!” the teachers agree.

Key Components of the Challenge Division

The first part is the Robot Game: Teams build and program an autonomous LEGO robot to complete missions on a themed game board within a set time. Each mission is worth points, and strategy is key.

The next part is the Innova-

A Celebration of Life for Wrenna Schey

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Wayne from Dog Pound Cruisers and all the volunteers for organizing a fundraiser in honor of our granddaughter, Wrenna Schey, at Jersey Girl Brewery. The event was attended by hundreds of people who came together to show their love and support.

Tragically, Wrenna passed away the day before the fundraiser, turning it into a celebration of her beautiful, yet too-short, life.

We are deeply thankful to everyone for their kindness and support during this difficult time. Special thanks also go to Enzo’s Pizza and Philly Pretzel for their own fundraising efforts.

The donations will help cover the medical expenses we incurred, and we are still accepting contributions at https:// gofund.me/7e9d4ca7. Thank you all for your generosity and compassion.

Thank you all...

Joe Nicastro & Mary Lalama

PARTY ROOM THE PARTY ROOM

tion Project: Teams research a real-world problem related to the year’s theme, develop an innovative solution and present it to judges.

Core values and robot design come into play with every competition. Teams are judged on how well they demonstrate FLL’s values, such as teamwork, inclusion and professionalism.

As far as the robot design, teams explain their robot’s design, programming and strategies during judging sessions.

Every season features a different theme such as space exploration, environmental sustainability or transportation. The goal is to encourage teams to think critically about global challenges, the teachers explain. This year’s theme was submerged.

In addition to building and coding a robot, teams are judged on an innovation project, explains Marques. The Innovation Project in the Submerged FLL challenge encouraged teams to identify a real-world problem related to water or submerged environments, such as water pollution, conservation or underwater exploration, and develop an innovative solution to address it.

Teams conducted research to understand the problem and design a practical solution, and then presented it to a panel of judges, explaining how it could make a positive impact.

“Our team researched many underwater careers and chose to focus their research on underwater photography,” she shares. “In the summer of 2024 the team had a google meet with the Rutgers Marine biology team. They learned a lot about how robotics plays a part in underwater exploration. They also learned how import-

ant it is that all divers follow safety rules.

“This meeting along with extensive research gave them the idea for a safety belt,” she explains.

The original idea was to have a safety checklist, the camera and the case hanging on the neoprene belt. A marine biology professor at East Stroudsburg University gave the students feedback to test different materials for the checklist. The team conducted experiments and settled on a waterproof phone case, a flashlight and a whistle to the belt.

“They worked with Sandshore schools’ music teacher Mr. Natelo, to come up with a song to sing upon entering and exiting the judging room and the name for the belt became THE KRAKEN BELT.”

After a virtual visit to the Jenkinson’s Aquarium, they received feedback that the bungee cord may get too heavy and float, so they tested it and decided to use retractable elastic instead, she describes.

The results on how the teams do fall on the group of volunteer judges who provide rubrics so students can see their strengths and weaknesses.

Judges are typically volunteers from diverse professional backgrounds, including STEM professionals, educators, community leaders and FLL alumni, says Marques.

“They are trained to evaluate teams fairly and consistently based on specific rubrics provided by FIRST.”

Awards determined by judges include Champion’s Award; Core Values Award; Innovation Project Award; and Robot Design Award.

“We were the highest scoring team in the elementary schools,” says Marques. After

the first competition the team scored high enough to move on to the regional competition,” held at MOHS Dec. 14 and 15.

The team received a rubric outlining the key criteria for the Innovation Project in the FLL challenge, explains the teachers. The rubric guided them in improving their scores: They focused on enhancing their research, solution development and presentation, ensuring they met the expectations for creativity, feasibility and impact. They also worked on refining their robot’s performance on the mission mat, optimizing its design and programming to complete the tasks more effectively.

“As they progressed, the team continuously reviewed the rubric to identify areas for improvement, making adjustments to both their innovation project and robot to maximize their scores and demonstrate their best work,” says Marques. “After the regional competition our robot race score improved by 40 points. We improved our rubric scores but we did not qualify to move on to the World Championship.”

While it is always nice to win, learning how to improve is important as is the other benefits from participating in FLL.

“The best part is watching the students come together as a family, forming friendships with peers they may have never interacted with otherwise,” the teachers write. “It’s truly rewarding to see their growth, not only in research and problem-solving but also in their passion for each other’s ideas. The collaboration and support they show one another foster a positive, inclusive environment, where everyone’s contribution is valued, and friendships blossom along the way.”

Netcong Church Jazz Service and Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser to Benefit Disaster Relief

BY ELSIE WALKER STAFF WRITER

sponsored by the United Methodist Men’s group at the church. Church member Scott Lefurge, of Byram Township, coordinates the event which includes a variety of musicians, many of whom are his students; Lefurge teaches instrumental music at Bedminster Township School. Recently, Lefurge shared about the Jazz Worship and Mardi Gras Pancake Breakfast which initially started as a response to Hurricane Sandy in 2013. Disaster relief is one of the church’s mission projects through which it helps others in need. For its first five years, the Jazz Worship and Mardi Gras

Pancake Breakfast raised funds directly for Hurricane Sandy relief. After that, the event started raising funds for UMCOR so now funds go to natural disasters nationwide and beyond.” We chose UMCOR as our charity because it is directly affiliated with the United Methodist Church and allows us to give the funds directly for hurricane relief efforts. In recent years, we have expanded our fundraising efforts for UMCOR so they may continue to provide relief efforts for all kinds of natural disasters. UMCOR is an amazing organization that provides relief efforts almost immediately throughout the U.S. and the world, “ explained Lefurge. Since 2013, the Jazz Worship and Mardi Gras Pancake Breakfast has raised about $6,000 for disaster relief.

The focus of the event grew out of an idea in early 2013 to have a Fat Tuesday breakfast hurricane relief fundraiser. (Fat Tuesday, the last day of Mardi Gras season, is a day of feasting before the Christian time of Lent, which includes fasting.) However, it was thought that more people would come on a Sunday morning. Since Fat Tuesday is the time of Mardi Gras, the idea of having jazz

Valentine’s

AREA - Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14, is a day dedicated to love, affection, and the exchange of heartfelt gestures. Its origins, however, are rooted in ancient traditions and historical events that have evolved significantly over centuries. Today, the holiday is marked by a blend of romantic, cultural, and commercial customs that vary across the globe.

The Origins of Valentine’s Day The story of Valentine’s Day begins in ancient Rome, where

music was added and it all morphed into the Jazz Worship and Mardi Gras pancake breakfast.

On March 2nd, the event will start off with the jazz service featuring several inspirational jazz pieces. Past services have featured among pieces performed “What a Friend We have in Jesus”, “This Little Light of Mine” and “What a Wonderful World”. Lefurge noted that musicians come from the church as well as student musicians from Lenape Valley, Mount Olive, Hopatcong, Bedminster and Bernardsville. “It is very rewarding to see so many student musicians and their families coming together to play fun music and enjoy delicious food while raising funds for such a worthy cause,” he shared. Over the years, the number of musicians and types of instruments played has grown.

“When we began, we started out in 2013 with only three musicians. In 2023, our tenth anniversary of our Mardi Gras Jazz event, we were blessed to have 35 musicians performing together. This year will be our 12th Jazz event. and it would be wonderful if we were able to have even more musicians joining us for this special event,” Lefurge said. In particular, he

is excited to have his son, Zach Lefurge, a trumpet player, joining the musicians. A variety of instruments make up the jazzy sound of the day. Those have included saxophones, trumpets, clarinets and bass clarinets, trombones, flutes, piano, keyboards, guitars, basses, drums, violins, tubas, xylophones, glockenspiels and tambourines. “It is very humbling and heartwarming to know that God uses my talents and abilities as a music teacher and musician to praise Him and lead worship while encouraging other musicians and music students to participate in this fun, spirit -filled worship service and event at our church. Know-

ing that we can use our musical talents to raise much needed funds for disaster relief which will help others is an amazing blessing,” said Lefurge

During the service, Lefurge will share the background of the pieces performed. “One of my favorite songs in this year’s service will be ‘This Little Light of Mine’. I plan on sharing in my message how God calls each and every one of us to let His light shine through us,” he said.

For the breakfast, the church’s large fellowship hall will be decorated for Mardi Gras and musicians will be playing a variety of jazz numbers on the hall stage while people enjoy pancakes and a variety of breakfast goodies. The food is donated so 100% of the monies raised goes to disaster relief.

Lefurge has been touched by the support of his church in this effort. He shared, “Last year, the Sunday of Mardi Gras weekend was also Super Bowl Sunday. The men of the church and our fans of our Mardi Gras Pancake Breakfast and Jazz Worship fundraiser chose to hold our Mardi Gras event instead of a Super Bowl Event. I was very happy that there was so much support for this event that it has now become a tradition at the Stanhope United Methodist Church.”

Day: From Ancient Origins to Modern Celebrations

a festival called Lupercalia was celebrated from February 13 to 15. This pagan festival was dedicated to fertility and purification, featuring rituals that included the pairing of couples through a lottery system. While Lupercalia was far from the romanticized version of Valentine’s Day we know today, its timing and focus on relationships laid the groundwork for the holiday’s eventual transformation. The connection to Saint Valentine comes from a more Christianized interpretation

of the day. Historical records suggest that there were multiple martyrs named Valentine in early Christianity, but one figure stands out. Saint Valentine of Rome, believed to have lived during the third century, was martyred for performing marriages for Christian couples in secret, defying Emperor Claudius II’s ban on such unions. Claudius had prohibited marriages to ensure young men would join his army without attachments. Valentine’s acts of defiance made him a symbol of love and devotion, and he was

later canonized by the Church.

In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius I established February 14 as Saint Valentine’s Day, effectively replacing the pagan Lupercalia festival with a Christian feast. Over the centuries, the day’s association with romantic love grew, particularly during the Middle Ages. The poet Geoffrey Chaucer is often credited with linking Valentine’s Day to courtly love in his 14th-century poem, “Parliament of Fowls.” Modern-Day Celebrations Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in diverse ways across the world, with each culture adding its unique twist. The common thread is the expression of love and affection, though the methods and scale of celebration vary.

In many Western countries, Valentine’s Day is a significant cultural event. Couples exchange cards, flowers, chocolates, and gifts as tokens of their love. Red roses, a symbol of passion, are particularly popular. Romantic dinners and weekend getaways are common ways for partners to celebrate the day together. Single individuals often embrace the holiday as well, celebrating self-love or organizing gatherings with friends.

In Japan, Valentine’s Day has taken on a unique commercial and cultural angle. Women

traditionally give chocolates to men, categorized as “giri-choco” (obligation chocolate) for colleagues or acquaintances and “honmei-choco” (true feeling chocolate) for romantic interests. A reciprocal celebration, White Day, occurs on March 14, when men return the favor with gifts for women.

In Finland and Estonia, February 14 is known as “Friend’s Day” (Ystävänpäivä), emphasizing platonic relationships rather than romantic ones. Friends exchange cards and small gifts, highlighting the broader scope of love and appreciation.

In some countries, Valentine’s Day is observed with grand public displays of affection. For example, in the Philippines, mass weddings are a popular tradition, with hundreds of couples tying the knot in government-sponsored ceremonies. This creates a festive atmosphere and provides an opportunity for couples to celebrate their love in a communal setting.

However, Valentine’s Day is not universally embraced. Some cultures and communities regard it as overly commercialized or incompatible with local traditions and values. In certain countries, the holiday is banned or discouraged due to religious or cultural reasons, with alternative celebrations

taking its place.

The Evolution of a Global Phenomenon

The modern celebration of Valentine’s Day is deeply intertwined with commercialization. Retailers capitalize on the holiday by promoting themed products, from greeting cards to luxury goods. The tradition of gift-giving has expanded to include personalized items, experiential gifts, and even digital expressions of affection through social media and messaging apps. Despite its commercialization, Valentine’s Day remains a meaningful occasion for many people. It serves as a reminder to express love and appreciation, whether through grand gestures or simple acts of kindness. While the ways of celebrating may differ, the essence of the holiday—a celebration of love in its many forms—remains timeless.

Conclusion

Valentine’s Day has a rich and complex history that spans centuries and cultures. From its origins in ancient Rome to its transformation into a global celebration of love, the holiday continues to evolve. Whether celebrated with a romantic partner, friends, or family, Valentine’s Day offers an opportunity to cherish the connections that bring joy and meaning to our lives.

BY HENRY M. HOLDEN

MORRIS COUNTY - The Morris County 4-H “ResistoJets” Rocketry Club is one of only 18 middle-and-high school groups nationwide to qualify for this year’s NASA Student Launch Initiative, (SLI) and the only team from New Jersey. More than 50 college-age teams will also participate.

The App Development Challenge, (ADC), is one of eight Artemis Student Challenges. It is a coding challenge presenting students with technical problems, seeking their contributions to deep space exploration missions, according to a release issued by the school district.

Students from the Academy for Computer & Information Sciences, located at the Morris County School of Technology in Denville, are reaching for the stars—literally. This school year, they embarked on an exciting Science, Technology, Electronics and Mathematics (STEM) journey by participating in NASA’s App Development Challenge, which aims to engage students in deep space exploration missions.

The project is developed in collaboration with NASA’s Space Communication and Navigation (SCaN)team, which oversees space communication activities supporting more than 100 missions.

SCaN’s work includes managing NASA’s Near Space and Deep Space Networks, advancing cutting-edge technologies such as optical and quantum communications, and creating an integrated space communications architecture to enable exploration programs through 2040.

This is real rocket science where a nine-month-long challenge will culminate with onsite events starting on April 30, 2025. Final launches are scheduled for May 3, at Bragg Farms in Toney, Alabama,

Students Are Reaching for the Stars

In a 10-Week journey with NASA from October through December 2024, students engaged in a rigorous 10-week challenge. They interacted with NASA coders and engineers through live virtual events. Their progress was evaluated by NASA scientists and engineers via video submissions and interviews. According to the NASA top-performing teams will be selected for a culminating event at Johnson Space Center in 2026.

The ADC, led by NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, is a highly competitive coding challenge under the NASA Office of STEM Next Gen STEM Project. It tasks student teams with solving real-world technical problems that support NASA’s Artemis missions.

Through Artemis, NASA will land the first woman and person of color on the Moon and eventually establish a permanent human-presence on the Moon. The success of the Artemis program relies on innovative technologies, fresh perspectives, and collaboration, which are foundational components of the Student Launch challenge.

This year, students were challenged to research and design a computer application to visualize Artemis II, NASA’s first crewed mission on its path to establishing a sustainable presence on the Moon. The app will assist with mission planning and training activities, a crucial step in humanity’s return to lunar exploration.

By participating in the ADC, these “Artemis Generation” students are actively contributing to NASA’s mission to land the first woman and the first person of color on the Moon.

During the NASA Student Launch Initiative, student teams design, build and launch a rocket and payload

according to NASA’s specifications as part of a rocketry competition. The goal of this year’s challenge is to simulate photographing the surface of a planet. The team will design and build an 8-foot-tall rocket that will lift its payload to over 5,000 feet.

During the pandemic, club president and team Captain Sean McConoughey, of Califon, pursued rocketry as a hobby with his father, Luke. When he learned about the NASA challenge, he approached 4-H to sponsor the team, which includes Brian Sun of Belle Mead, Holt Englander of Morristown, Mya McConoughey of Califon, and Sahisnu Santhosh of Lake Hiawatha in Parsippany. New team members are welcome.

“When I first heard about the NASA Student Launch program I thought it would be a great opportunity to learn and grow after running out of ideas for my own projects” said Sean McConoughey. “However, we quickly found out we had to qualify first, in our case through The American Rocketry Challenge (TARC) In hindsight I think that was a great thing that helped prepare us a lot for Student Launch. What’s driven me over the last year, since starting the competitions, has been everything I’ve learned and the experiences I have to look forward to.”

To qualify for the NASA SLI, the ResistoJets Rocketry Club’s five members had to compete and succeed in the prerequisite The American Rocketry Challenge.. Last year, a team designed a rocket to transport two eggs to a certain altitude before landing them safely on the ground -- intact. Their design was successful on a competitive launch day in Virginia, which enabled the 4-H group to progress.

The ResistoJets Rocketry

4-H Club of Morris County competed in April 2022 at The American Rocketry Challenge and placed 17th overall in the nation. Their success qualified the team to apply for the NASA Student Launch Initiative (NASA SLI), an engineering design challenge conducted by NASA which includes a highly competitive selection process. Project proposals were submitted by student launch teams from universities, colleges, as well as middle and high schools.

The ResistoJets Rocketry 4-H Club’s proposal was selected and is the only New Jersey representative from both the middle/high school and college/university divisions.

The NASA SLI team of the club consists of students in grades 6 through 11. At this point, after having successfully submitted and presented their Critical Design Review data and papers to the NASA group, the team is working on their Flight Readiness documents

and finalizing their design for the rocket as well as payload (a movable camera attached to the rocket). The full-scale rocket’s maiden flight on February 4, in Maryland was a success and confirmed their choices. There is a lot more work to be done before they attend the final competition launch in Huntsville, AL in April, but the team is excited to participate and can’t wait to show their work at this national event!

Now that they are officially accepted into the SLI program, the team interacts with NASA along the lines of a contractor by writing and submitting precise proposals for their rocket, specifying the design, ultimate altitude and performance. “Accurate estimation of the rocket’s performance is an important piece of the proposal” said 4-H Program Assistant Britt Wagner.

The competition will take place in April at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala. This phase of

the challenge is built around the current Artemis NASA mission.

The team is currently in the preliminary design review and working to give a 30-min presentation on design and performance to the NASA team. The challenge also includes requirements for media presence for each team as well as a STEM education plan to reach more than 250 students in the area.

“This competition has the potential to transform students into well-qualified professionals for the modern-day workplace,” said Fred Kepner, activity lead for Student Launch at Marshall. “Many former students now work with NASA or our industry partners across the nation, some supporting the next chapter of space exploration, the Artemis program.”

Sean McConoughey, said “I am very proud of what the team has accomplished, and I look forward to everything that lies ahead.”

Some of the teams are working on the NASA coding challenge. (Photo credit Morris County School of Technology)

BY DANA JACKSON

Q:I’m really enjoying the show “Silo” -- so much so that I went back and read the books that the show is based on in between seasons. Who is the actress who plays Juliette? -- K.I.

A: Swedish actress Rebecca Ferguson stars as engineer-turned-sheriff Juliette Nichols in the dystopian drama “Silo,” which recently finished its second season on Apple TV+. It’s based on a series of novels by author Hugh Howey. “Silo” has been renewed for a third season with Ferguson returning. If she looks familiar, it’s because she’s co-starred in several hit films, most notably the recent “Mission: Impossible” sequels with Tom Cruise as well as “Dune: Part One” and “Part Two” with Timoth√©e Chalamet.

Ferguson honed her acting skills on a Swedish soap opera as a teen before eventually

BY DEMI TAVERAS

“Queer” (R) -- Former James Bond portrayer Daniel Craig took up quite an interesting role in this period romantic drama from director Luca Guadagnino (“Challengers”).

Based on the novella by William S. Burroughs, the film takes place in 1950s Mexico City and follows American expatriate William Lee (Craig). While bar hopping one day, Lee comes across a young man named Eugene (Drew Starkey) and instantly becomes infatuated with him. The quiet Eugene

branching out into American productions. Cruise took note of her performance in the STARZ miniseries “The White Queen,” resulting in her being cast in “Mission: Impossible -- Rogue Nation.” Her talent eventually led to her snagging roles opposite Michael Fassbender in “The Snowman,” Hugh Jackman in “The Greatest Showman,” and Chris Hemsworth in “Men in Black: International.” Her future is bright. Next up for her is the untitled “Peaky Blinders” film with Cillian Murphy and the untitled Katheryn-Bigelow-directed White House thriller with Idris Elba. ***

Q:What ever happened to The Weeknd after his show on HBO was canceled? Is he just going to concentrate on singing now? -- K.K.

A:Abel Tesfaye, also known as The Weeknd, hasn’t quit act-

Celebrity Extra Couch Theater ENTERTAINMENT

attempts to reciprocate Lee’s actions but only gives up so much of himself at a time when homophobia runs rampant throughout society. Out now to rent, “Queer” makes viewers feel like they happened upon a few diary entries about a man’s greatest love affair. (VUDU) “Kinds of Kindness” (R) -Emma Stone (“Poor Things”) and Jesse Plemons (“Civil War”) lead this movie with three separate winding tales that will leave you at a bit of a loss, to be frank, not necessar-

ing, but it would be understandable if he got discouraged after his series “The Idol” was canceled by HBO after one season. Prior to this, he had a setback on stage where he had to cut his live concert in Los Angeles short after losing his voice. He says now in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that the voice loss was mental, a result of all the stress around filming “The Idol” while also touring. He’s ready to bounce back not only with a new album but with another starring role. His sixth studio album “Hurry Up Tomorrow” will be released on Jan. 26, and a film of the same name will be released on May 16. Billed as a “musically driven psychological thriller,” the film not only stars The Weeknd but also Barry Keoghan (“Saltburn”) and Jenna Ortega (“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”). ***

ily in a good or bad way. The first story centers around an employee named Robert Fletcher who lives his life exactly how his boss tells him to, including his meals, his house, and his relationship. It explores what happens to Robert when his boss suddenly refuses to dictate his life anymore. The second story’s plot seems straight out of a “Black Mirror” episode, with a police officer convinced that his wife has been replaced by a clone. The third and final story tells a tale about sex cult members who are looking for a woman with the ability to reawaken the dead. All of these stories are loosely connected, but it’ll take some sleuthing to figure out exactly how. Out now. (Hulu)

“Small Things Like These” (PG-13) -- Oscar winner Cillian Murphy (“Oppenheimer”) stars in this historical drama taking place in Ireland during Christmas 1985. He plays coal merchant Bill Furlong, who spends his days laboring and his nights at home with his wife and five daughters. Tortured by memories of his childhood, Bill often keeps to himself and rarely falls out of line with his routine. But one day, as he sets off for work early, he encounters a pregnant teenage girl who is locked in the coal shed of the local convent. His discovery of her subsequently leads to his planning to free her from the abusive nuns, and in turn, he is able to confront the ghosts of his past. This short 98-minute film is out now to rent. (Amazon Prime Video)

Q: I thought Bill Maher was going to quit his TV show if President Trump was reelected, but it looks like it’s coming back soon. Did he change his mind? -- M.M.

A:Bill Maher’s weekly HBO talk show “Real Time” returned this January for its 23rd season, but he has no plans to quit. Nina Rosenstein from HBO Programming, Late Night and Specials told Deadline that Maher was “joking around,” and his first love will always be “Real Time.”

Where you won’t find Maher anytime soon is on the road. He’s confirmed that he’s done touring as a stand-up comedian and that, after 40 years, he needs a break from it. However, as far as “Real Time” goes, HBO will have to drag him off for him to quit. Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail. com, or

“Prime Target” (TV-MA) -Leo Woodall (“One Day”) has clinched his second main role after getting his big break in the second season of “The White Lotus” as Jack. In this thriller miniseries, he stars as Edward, a brilliant mathematics student whose work will eventually enable him to access every computer in the world. Obviously, an invention such as this would be disastrous in the wrong hands, and the wrong hands are hard at work to make sure that Edward’s work doesn’t come to fruition. Luckily, NSA agent Taylah Sanders (Quintessa Swindell) has been tasked with

Former Radio City Rockette from Randolph Set to Release Memoir

BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER

AREA - Jennifer Jones has shattered glass ceilings throughout her career, becoming the very first African American Radio City Rockette in the 1980s. She’s also beaten colorectal cancer. Now, she’ll add another accolade to her list: two-time published author.

Jones, who grew up in Randolph, was the very first African American Radio City Rockette. In her memoir, titled Becoming Spectacular, Jones dives in to her time on the line. From performances at the Super Bowl to what life was really like on the Radio City stage, Jones invites readers in to hear her story.

“I really tried to take the reader through my whole life. The initial chapter talks about the Super Bowl halftime show, but after that I go back into my childhood and the start of my life,” Jones says.

No stranger to being a trailblazer in her own right, Jones touches on her parents being trailblazers as the two were in an interracial marriage, which for the 1960s was not the norm. However, it was her parents love of Broadway that led to exposing a young Jennifer to the arts.

“That love taught me at such a young age that I needed to be

on a stage and to be able to walk out of a stage door,” Jones recalls.

The book slowly opens up to life inside Jen’s early dance classes and growing up as a bi-racial child in a white school system. She also sheds light on her reign as Miss Morris County, her experience owning her own aerobics studio. There’s also a chapter on her experience studying dance in New York and of course, the coveted audition to becoming a Radio City Rockette.

“I talk about the good and the bad, the resistance that was coming towards me of people within Radio City and the women on the line who were not ready for a change. But I also touch on the ladies who were ready for a change and those who really embraced me. I talk about all the terrible things I went through but what ultimately kept me there was my love of dance and my dream of performing on a stage and walking out of a backstage door no matter what,” Jones said.

After finishing her time as a Rockette, Jones went on to star in the revival of 42nd Street. Her work on the show earned her a TONY Award for Best Revival of a Musical.

However, there are also chapters on the lows of her life.

“After 42nd Street, a lot of people thought I had disappeared. I share a lot in the book about being a single mom, my marriage, my divorce, not having a college degree. I talk about all the jobs I held in toxic work environments,” Jones shares. Jones also opens up about her journey of getting diagnosed with and ultimately beating colorectal cancer.

Overall, Jones couldn’t be prouder of sharing her story. She hopes each person who reads her story remembers that their stories are important too.

“Ultimately, each and every one of us has a mark to leave on this world and we all have a greater contribution to give something to others. We’re all just diamonds in the rough just trying to be the shiniest, most precious cut that we can and that is our gift and that is when we shine the most,” Jones said. The book will be available for preorders beginning Feb. 18. The book’s official release date is one month later on March 18. Jones will also be speaking and hosting various book signings in the area. For the most up to date event schedule, visit www. rockettejenn.com

write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

watching over Edward, and if they put their two minds together, they’ll be able to figure out who’s sabotaging the proj-

ect. The show premieres Jan. 22. (Apple TV+) (c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Rebecca Ferguson as Juliette Nichols in “Silo.” Photo Credit: Courtesy of Apple TV+.

Quintessa Swindell, left, and Leo Woodall star in “Prime Target.” Photo Credit: Courtesy of Apple TV+.

GAME TIME

Marie as we learn about Magnified Healing, Sacred Activators, and Sarah Healing with the Angels. This will be a panel discussion about these different healing modalities and what they do. Registration is requested for this program at www.mopl.org Bunco for Adults

Two Sessions:

Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 6 pm

Monday, Feb. 10 at 1 pm

BY RICHARD MABEY, JR.

GUEST WRITER

Mt. Olive Public Library Happenings

Mt. Olive Public Library

Interested in learning how to play bunco? Come to our bunco program and have some fun! You must register for each session individually. A minimum of 8 players is needed to play. Registration is required at www.mopl.org.

Mystery Book Club

Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 6:30 pm

Join librarian Katy for a discussion of Salvation of a Saint by Keigo Higashino. Copies of the book may be picked up at the Reference Desk.

Valentine’s Day Workshop for Seniors

Friday, Feb. 7 at 1 pm

Come join the fun as we make a chocolate Valentine’s Day box! You’ll turn edible ingredients into a work of art. All

supplies are included.

Registration is required as spots are limited. Register at www.mopl.org.

Morning Book Club

Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 11 am

Join librarian Cynthia Washburn for a discussion of Horse by Geraldine Brooks. Copies of the book may be picked up at the Reference Desk.

Hedgehog Book Craft

Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 2 pm

Learn how to create a hedgehog out of an old book! Books will be supplied. Register now because space is limited. Register at www.mopl.org.

Hatha Yoga

Two Sessions:

Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 10:30 am

Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 6 pm

Come enjoy Hatha yoga

with Danielle! Hatha yoga is practiced at a slower pace with a focus on breathing, meditation, controlled movements, stretching, and relaxation. Registrants will need to bring their own water and yoga mats.

Registration is required and you must register for each session individually. Register at www.mopl.org

The Heart Chakra and Self

Love

Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 2 pm

The heart chakra is traditionally the center of love. In this class, we will explore the dimensions of the heart chakra and its thirty-three chambers. Specifically, we will focus on self love and how to nurture ourselves.

Registration is requested at www.mopl.org.

Paint Your Partner Night

Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 6 pm

Show how well you know your partner with some swipes of the paint brush. We’ll also have some light refreshments to make the night complete.

Adult Painting on Canvas

Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 6 pm

Due to high demand, Lynn is back with a duplicate painting program. This is an instructor led program where you will paint a winter scene on canvas. Supplies are included.

Registration is required at www.mopl.org as spots are limited.

Bingo for Adults

Monday, Feb. 24 at 1 pm

Enjoy bingo? Come to bingo at the library and compete to win advanced reader copies of interesting books! Space is limited and regis-

tration is required. Register at www.mopl.org.

Afternoon Book Club

Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 1:30 pm

Join librarian Cynthia Washburn for a discussion of River of The Last Slave Ship: The True Story of How Clotilda Was Found, Her Descendants, And An Extraordinary Reckoning by Ben Raines. Copies of the book may be picked up at the Reference Desk.

Adult Bad Art

Thursday, Feb. 27 at 6:30 pm

Want to doodle and paint in a unique way? You’ll be able to turn your book into a work of art any way you want! Registration is required as spots are limited.

This Be Thy Kindness, Never To Be Forgotten

AREA - My uncle, Peter Knothe, was one of the kindest individuals whom I have ever known. He and my father had a very close friendship. They loved and greatly respected each other. Uncle Pete was more of a brother to Dad, than he was a brother-in-law. They both married daughters of Edmund and Lydia Kemmerer. They both had this very unique sense of humor.

When Dad was in the hospital, in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Uncle Pete came out to visit Dad a lot. Dad was fighting pancreatic cancer. I remember, as we all would gather around Dad’s hospital bed, Uncle Pete would say a most thoughtful and reverent prayer. Uncle Pete had a meter, a style, a certain voice tone in his prayers that rang with earnest sincerity. They were both World War II veterans. They understood the horrors of war that they had seen, first hand. They both knew, deep in their hearts, that there is no glory to war. They were both fiercely patriotic men. Interestingly enough, both of these good men returned home from the war, married and raised their family in their respective family homesteads.

them. During the Christmas season, Uncle Pete and Aunt Alice would put that masterpiece grave cover onto Dad’s grave site.

My father went Home to be with the Lord in May of 2006. Uncle Pete did not miss a beat, in becoming the adopted father to my sister and I. A debt that I can only recognize and never repay. Uncle Pete’s daughter, Linda (Knothe) Intili is a very artistic soul. Linda creates beautiful grave covers, which are sold at the family Christmas Tree stand every year. Every year, since the Christmas of 2006, Linda has created and designed a most wonderful grave cover for Dad. And, never charged my sister and I for

Valentine’s

AREA - Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14, is a day dedicated to love, affection, and the exchange of heartfelt gestures. Its origins, however, are rooted in ancient traditions and historical events that have evolved significantly over centuries. Today, the holiday is marked by a blend of romantic, cultural, and commercial customs that vary across the globe.

The Origins of Valentine’s Day

The story of Valentine’s Day begins in ancient Rome, where a festival called Lupercalia was

On Veterans’ Day, Uncle Pete would place a flag next to Dad’s grave. One Easter season, Uncle Pete placed a plastic bunny rabbit and a lily flower in front of Dad’s headstone. Dad loved to chomp on the ears of a candy Easter Bunny. The humorous outlook between Dad and Uncle Pete had lived on, even after Dad went Home to be with the Lord.

Uncle Pete went Home to be with the Lord in April of 2018. He lived to be 96 years old. I don’t think a day goes by that I don’t think of dear old Uncle Pete. He was a very kind, giving man. Uncle Pete worked as a Finishing Carpenter, specializing in building bowling allies. He worked nights and weekends of the family

farm. He served as a Volunteer Fire Fighter in Randolph for many years. For many years, he served as the Treasurer of the Jeptha Masonic Lodge in Rockaway. He was a long-term Deacon in his church. For many years, he served as a volunteer for the Deborah Heart and Lung Center in Browns Mills. He was a long-term member of the Randolph VFW and the Randolph Historical Society.

In light of all his many worthwhile accomplishments, I dearly remember Uncle Pete as the kind gentleman who honored my father, even after Dad passed away. There are no words. I so dearly miss my beloved uncle.

Love your family. Forgive, forgive, forgive and then forgive again. Burn all grudges. Tell your loved ones that you love them. For none of us have a guarantee that we will see tomorrow’s rising sun.

Day: From Ancient Origins to Modern Celebrations

celebrated from February 13 to 15. This pagan festival was dedicated to fertility and purification, featuring rituals that included the pairing of couples through a lottery system. While Lupercalia was far from the romanticized version of Valentine’s Day we know today, its timing and focus on relationships laid the groundwork for the holiday’s eventual transformation. The connection to Saint Valentine comes from a more Christianized interpretation of the day. Historical records suggest that there were multi-

ple martyrs named Valentine in early Christianity, but one figure stands out. Saint Valentine of Rome, believed to have lived during the third century, was martyred for performing marriages for Christian couples in secret, defying Emperor Claudius II’s ban on such unions. Claudius had prohibited marriages to ensure young men would join his army without attachments. Valentine’s acts of defiance made him a symbol of love and devotion, and he was later canonized by the Church.

In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius I established February 14 as Saint

Valentine’s Day, effectively replacing the pagan Lupercalia festival with a Christian feast. Over the centuries, the day’s association with romantic love grew, particularly during the Middle Ages. The poet Geoffrey Chaucer is often credited with linking Valentine’s Day to courtly love in his 14th-century poem, “Parliament of Fowls.” Modern-Day Celebrations Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in diverse ways across the world, with each culture adding its unique twist. The common thread is the expression of love and affection, though the methods and scale of celebration vary.

In many Western countries, Valentine’s Day is a significant cultural event. Couples exchange cards, flowers, chocolates, and gifts as tokens of their love. Red roses, a symbol of passion, are particularly popular. Romantic dinners and weekend getaways are common ways for partners to celebrate the day

together. Single individuals often embrace the holiday as well, celebrating self-love or organizing gatherings with friends.

In Japan, Valentine’s Day has taken on a unique commercial and cultural angle. Women traditionally give chocolates to men, categorized as “giri-choco” (obligation chocolate) for colleagues or acquaintances and “honmei-choco” (true feeling chocolate) for romantic interests. A reciprocal celebration, White Day, occurs on March 14, when men return the favor with gifts for women.

In Finland and Estonia, February 14 is known as “Friend’s Day” (Ystävänpäivä), emphasizing platonic relationships rather than romantic ones. Friends exchange cards and small gifts, highlighting the broader scope of love and appreciation.

In some countries, Valentine’s Day is observed with grand public displays of affection. For example, in the Phil-

ippines, mass weddings are a popular tradition, with hundreds of couples tying the knot in government-sponsored ceremonies. This creates a festive atmosphere and provides an opportunity for couples to celebrate their love in a communal setting.

However, Valentine’s Day is not universally embraced. Some cultures and communities regard it as overly commercialized or incompatible with local traditions and values. In certain countries, the holiday is banned or discouraged due to religious or cultural reasons, with alternative celebrations taking its place.

The Evolution of a Global Phenomenon

The modern celebration of Valentine’s Day is deeply intertwined with commercialization. Retailers capitalize on the holiday by promoting themed products, from greeting cards to luxury goods. The tradition of gift-giving has expanded to include personalized items, experiential gifts, and even digital expressions of affection through social media and messaging apps. Despite its commercialization, Valentine’s Day remains a meaningful occasion for many people. It serves as a reminder to express love and appreciation, whether through grand gestures or simple acts of kindness. While the ways of celebrating may differ, the essence of the holiday—a celebration of love in its many forms—remains timeless.

Conclusion

Valentine’s Day has a rich and complex history that spans centuries and cultures. From its origins in ancient Rome to its transformation into a global celebration of love, the holiday continues to evolve. Whether celebrated with a romantic partner, friends, or family, Valentine’s Day offers an opportunity to cherish the connections that bring joy and meaning to our lives.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has had two books published. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Rich-

ard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ gmail.com.

Dear old Uncle Pete standing beside my Dad’s grave site.

RESTAURANT GUIDE

6 Tips for Adding More Seafood to Your Family’s Menu

conditions like asthma.

In fact, the United States Department of Agriculture suggests making seafood part of healthy diets and its 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend putting it on menus at least twice a week. While there are common complaints, such as “my kids won’t like it” or “I don’t know how to prepare it,” these tips can help make it quick, easy and affordable to add nutritious seafood to your family’s menu.

Staying healthy is important year-round, but especially in the cooler months when temperatures drop, people spend more time inside and germs can spread easily. What you eat and the lifestyle you embrace are critical components of staying healthy.

Nourishing meals full of fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods and whole grains help provide the body’s immune system with the nutrients it needs.

Start with shrimp. Shrimp is one of the most popular types of seafood in the United States. Try shrimp warm or cold as a snack, appetizer or main course. It’s versatile and can be sauteed, broiled, boiled, grilled or baked. Make it fun. Consider putting healthy fish like wild cod, salmon or pollock into fun foods like tacos or burgers.

Buy frozen. Fish is now flash frozen at sea to lock in freshness. Frozen seafood meals add convenience and help cut down on waste because what you don’t use can go back in the freezer.

Cook with your kids. If your kids don’t think they like seafood, have them help with dinner. Cooking with kids can help develop healthier long-term

habits and a more adventurous palate. It also helps improve motor functions and confidence. In fact, a study published in “Pediatrics” shows getting children involved in meal preparation may increase their enjoyment of healthy foods.

Pick the right products. To create a family-friendly menu, consider an option like Aqua Star’s Cutting Board meal kits, a selection of 10 recipes that include everything a family needs to prepare a tasty, healthy meal. Selections include tacos, flatbreads and comfort favorites. With pre-portioned ingredients for quick preparation and cleanup, they make it easy for parents and kids to create their own restaurant-quality meals.

Eat at home. Eating out of-

ten can drive unhealthy eating habits and strain family budgets. Seafood is easy and convenient to make, whether you use a simple recipe like these Chipotle Shrimp Street Tacos or choose a convenient meal kit, and can help you spend more time together at the dinner table.

Find more tips and recipes to add seafood to your family’s table at aquastar.com.

Chipotle Shrimp Street Tacos

Total time: 20 minutes

Servings: 2

1 Aqua Star Chipotle Shrimp Street Tacos Meal Kit, including: creamy ancho chili sauce, Aqua Star shrimp, chipotle seasoning, spinach, corn , roasted tomato white corn tortillas

2 teaspoons cooking oil, divided

To

top with sauce. (Family Features)

Submerge unopened sauce packet in bowl of water to thaw. In large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon oil; add shrimp and cook 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fluid and add chipotle seasoning. In medium skillet, heat remaining oil; add spinach, corn and roasted tomato. Cook 4-5 minutes until water is evaporated; set aside. In microwave, warm tortillas in moist paper towel 30 seconds.

Easy Dishes to Boost Immunity

and Grape and Salmon Power

Salad. Each provides a mix of immune-supporting nutrients, including zinc in chicken, vitamins A and C in kale, polyphenols in grapes and other important nutrients in the salmon, walnuts and barley. Find these recipes and more in “Eating for Immune Health” along with additional ways to eat healthy and stay well at grapesfromcalifornia.com

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1pinch red pepper flakes

1/4 teaspoon ground sumac salt

freshly ground black pepper

1 package (5-6 ounces) fresh baby spinach, washed and dried

1 1/2 cups shredded, cooked chicken (about 8 ounces)

1 cup red California grapes, sliced 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Grapes can be enjoyed as a healthy snack or an immune-boosting ingredient in recipes like Chicken, Spinach and Grape Pita sandwiches

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by getting enough sleep, being physically active every day, having enough fluids and reducing stress also help keep the immune system in shape. As a nutritious food to include on your grocery list, grapes of all colors – red, green and black – contain more than 1,600 natural plant compounds such as antioxidants and other polyphenols that help protect the health of cells throughout the body. They also contain about 82% water, so they provide important fluids for hydration, which is also critical to a healthy immune system.

Chicken, Spinach and Grape Pita

Servings: 4 2 tablespoons pine nuts 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons minced shallot

Show Your Heart Some Love

While heart disease is a leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, many of the risk factors associated with the condition can be controlled with dietary and lifestyle changes. By centering your meals around better-for-you ingredients and recipes, you can show your heart some extra love.

Consider walnuts, which are a heart-healthy food certified by the American Heart Association. More than 25 years of research shows walnuts may play a key role in heart health. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved one of the first qualified health claims for a whole food, finding that eating 1 1/2 ounces of walnuts per day as part of a low-saturated fat and low-cholesterol diet while not increasing caloric intake may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

Additionally, walnuts are the only nut significantly high in omega-3s, with 2 1/2 grams of alpha-linolenic acid per ounce. Walnuts can add this essential nutrient to dishes like these American Heart Associ-

ation Heart-Check Mark certified recipes for Greek Cucumber Walnut Bites and Banana Bread Overnight Oats. Find more information and heart-healthy recipes at walnuts.org/heart-health.

Greek Cucumber

Walnut Bites

Recipe courtesy of Beth Stark, RDN, LDN on behalf of the California Walnut Board

Prep time: 25 minutes

Servings: 6 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

1 English cucumber, ends trimmed (about 14 ounces)

1/2 cup roasted red pepper hummus

1/2 cup reduced-fat crumbled feta cheese

5 cherry tomatoes, quartered Heat oven to 350 F.

On small baking sheet, arrange walnuts evenly. Bake 8 minutes, checking frequently, until toasted.

Slice cucumber crosswise into 3/4-inch thick slices. Using small spoon, gently scoop out and discard center of each cucumber slice, leaving bottom and sides intact. In small bowl, stir 6 tablespoons chopped walnuts and

hummus. Spoon walnut-hummus mixture into each cucumber slice and top with reserved chopped walnuts, feta cheese and quartered tomatoes.

Banana Bread Overnight Oats

Recipe courtesy of Crowded

Kitchen on behalf of the California Walnut Board

Prep time: 15 minutes • Servings: 4

3 ripe bananas, sliced 2 cups old-fashioned oats

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla

3/4 cup chopped California walnuts, divided

1 tablespoon maple syrup

3 cups skim milk

In large container with lid, add sliced bananas. Use potato masher or fork to mash bananas until smooth. Add oats, cinnamon, salt, vanilla, half the chopped walnuts, maple syrup and milk. Combine thoroughly and refrigerate overnight.

To serve, divide among four canning jars or glass containers with lids. Top each with remaining walnuts before serving. (Family Features)

4 whole-wheat pita breads (6 1/2 inches each), warmed and halved

In small skillet over medium-high heat, toast pine nuts, stirring constantly until toasted, about 5 minutes. Transfer to bowl and let cool. In large bowl, whisk lemon juice, shallot, olive oil, red pepper flakes, sumac, salt and pepper. Add spinach, chicken, grapes, feta and pine nuts; toss to mix. Stuff into pita breads and serve.

Nutritional information per serving: 445 calories; 24 g protein; 46 g carbohydrates; 20 g fat (39% calories from fat); 5 g saturated fat (10% calories from saturated fat); 57 mg cholesterol; 658 mg sodium; 6 g fiber.

Grape and Salmon Power Salad

Servings: 6

3/4 cup pearled barley

3 cups firmly packed kale

leaves, torn and sliced into ribbons

1 cup halved red or black seedless California grapes 8 ounces cold, cooked salmon, skin and bones removed 1/2 cup walnuts, lightly toasted and coarsely chopped

Dressing: 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 clove garlic, mashed 1/2teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 pinch cayenne pepper

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Cook barley according to package directions. Drain and cool.

To make dressing: In small bowl, whisk lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper and cayenne. Gradually mix in olive oil. Pour onto salad and fold gently to combine.

Nutritional information per serving: 413 calories; 15 g protein; 30 g carbohydrates; 16 g fat (47% calories from fat); 3 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 22 mg cholesterol; 232 mg sodium; 500 mg potassium; 4 g fiber. (Family Features)

Tenderize kale by blanching in boiling water 2-3 seconds or microwaving 1 minute. Rinse pieces in cold water to stop cooking; squeeze dry. Fluff and uncrimp dry kale pieces with fingers. In medium bowl, mix barley, kale, grapes, salmon and walnuts.

build tacos, fill two tortillas with shrimp and vegetables then

Along

Make the season special with California grapes, which are abundant into January, as an ingredient in your favorite dishes or by decorating with them for colorful pops of red, green and black. If time is of the essence, they also offer an easy, fresh, healthy snack or side dish that adds color and flavor to your table.

As a versatile ingredient that adds taste and visual appeal, grapes can help you create memorable appetizers that will surprise and delight friends and family. For easy and delightful hors d’oeuvres, turn to Tricolor Grape Pizza with Goat Cheese and Thyme or Smoked Chicken and Grape Bruschetta, each offering simple yet flavorful ways to please a crowd. Send guests home with Easy Grape Compote, or give it as a fun host or hostess gift for friends and family, so they can enjoy a little taste of the holidays even after all the excitement winds down.

Find more tasty appetizers, meals, desserts and more at grapesfromcalifornia.com

Tricolor Grape Pizza with Goat Cheese and Thyme

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

and

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Amaze Guests with Great Grape Appetizers

2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves 1/4 cup coarsely

2 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled

2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese freshly ground pepper, to taste

Position rack in bottom of oven and place inverted baking sheet on top of rack; heat oven to 500 F.

On lightly floured surface, press pizza dough into 10-inch round circle and cover with towel while preparing toppings.

Sprinkle large baking sheet lightly with flour. Stretch pizza dough into oval, about 14-by10 inches, and place on sheet. Drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with grapes, thyme and walnuts. Place baking sheet on top of sheet already in oven and bake until crust is bubbling and golden, 8-10 minutes.

Remove pizza from oven.

Sprinkle with goat cheese and Parmesan. Season with pepper, to taste. Transfer pizza to board, cut into pieces and serve warm.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 350 calories; 10 g protein; 47 g carbohydrates; 14 g fat (36% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 5 mg cholesterol; 580 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.

Smoked Chicken and Grape Bruschetta Yield: 24 pieces

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 French bread baguette

8 ounces smoked chicken breast (1 3/4 cups), shredded or cut into bite-size strips

1 1/2 cups red, green or black seedless California grapes, halved

12 ounces fontina, port salute or Monterey Jack cheese, grated 1 tablespoon chives, snipped 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Preheat broiler to 550 F.

In small bowl, combine garlic, olive oil and salt. Set aside. Slice baguette on bias into 1/2-inch thick slices. Brush baguette slices with garlic-oil and place on cookie sheet. Toast in broiler about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from broiler.

On each bread slice, place about 1 tablespoon chicken breast and three grape halves then top with 2 tablespoons grated cheese.

Place cookie sheet about 8 inches away from broiler and broil 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Place on serving platter and sprinkle with snipped chives and pepper.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 125 calories; 7 g protein; 9 g fat (68% calories from fat); 3 g carbohydrates; 24 mg cholesterol; less than 1 g fiber; 154 mg sodium.

Easy Grape Compote

Prep time: 5 minutes, plus cooling Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6 4 cups black or red California grapes 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

2 strips fresh lemon peel

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

2/3 cup water

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter

1 teaspoon high-quality balsamic vinegar (optional)

In bowl of food processor, finely chop grapes and sugar using one-second pulses. Trans-

fer to deep, medium skillet or wide saucepan; stir in lemon peel, salt and water. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Cover pan with lid, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 18 minutes until fruit is tender.

In small bowl, stir lemon juice and cornstarch then stir into grape mixture with butter; simmer 6 minutes, or until desired consistency. Stir in vinegar, if desired. Serve warm or cool.

Cooled jam can be stored in covered glass jar in refrigerator up to 2 weeks.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 160 calories; 0 g protein; 41 g carbohydrates; 0 g fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 170 mg sodium; 1 g fiber. Festive, Fruitful Decor Naturally beautiful, fresh

A Fresh, Flavorful

grapes make for an easy, classic way to decorate for the holidays. Consider these ways to enhance your home and table: Drape bunches of red, green and black grapes in decorative bowls and alternate with candles for dazzling centerpieces. Fill a flower vase with grapes and water for color and texture to complement and support the flowers in the arrangement.

Bedazzle your ham or turkey platter with small bunches of grapes and fresh herbs.

Accent a perfectly cooked steak with grape rosemary skewers for a colorful, fragrant sidekick.

Adorn dessert plates and trays with sugar-frosted grapes to add a special sparkle. (Family Features)

Take on Family Dinner

If your family ever gets stuck in a dinner routine rut, it can feel like you’re eating the same recipes over and over again.

However, this fresh and unique recipe for Cuban Chicken with Salsa Fresca might inspire you to think outside the culinary box and give your family members the satisfactory flavor they desire at dinnertime. With fresh ingredients and a wholesome flavor, this meal is perfect to add to your dinner menu rotation.

The chicken is full of flavor and baked using multiple seasonings to create a Cuban-like taste. The salsa fresca, which is added on top of the chicken, is a tad sweet with grapefruit segments and juice, but also satisfying with jicama, onion, cilantro and jalapeno. It adds so much color to your plate, and all these flavors mash together for something unique and special.

Once the chicken is baked, cut it and assemble. The final result is a juicy chicken breast with a sweet yet crisp salsa topping. The flavors in this dish harmonize together to bring you a bite you have likely never experienced before.

This meal is also nutritious with fresh fruit and lean chicken, so it’s a meal almost anyone can enjoy, even if you’re on a healthy eating kick.

1 cup grapefruit segments 1/2 jicama, cubed 1/2 red onion, chopped 3/4 cup grapefruit juice

To start, create the marinade for your chicken and let it rest to allow all those wonderful spices to do their jobs. Set it in the fridge for 30 minutes or more.

Next, it’s time to make the salsa fresca. Start by chopping red onion and jicama then add grapefruit and jalapeno to the mix. Add grapefruit juice, olive oil and, finally, cilantro. Stir well with a large spoon until everything is combined.

Find more recipes and family dinner ideas at Culinary.net

Cuban Chicken with Salsa Fresca

Servings: 5

1 cup grapefruit juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons cumin

2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts Salsa Fresca:

4 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped Heat oven to 400 F. In large bowl, mix grapefruit juice, oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika and red pepper until combined. Add chicken to bowl and turn to coat. Refrigerate 30 minutes or longer. To make salsa fresca: In medium bowl, mix grapefruit segments, jicama, red onion, grapefruit juice, olive oil, cilantro and jalapeno pepper until combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Remove chicken from marinade. Place chicken in baking dish. Bake 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through. Serve chicken with salsa fresca.

What Is Mavacamten? And What Makes It So Controversial?

BY RICHARD MABEY, JR.

AREA - Mavacamten is a relatively new pharmaceutical prescription drug that is used to treat Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Its brand name is known as Camzyos. What makes this prescription drug so controversial, is basically its price. One month’s supply of 30 oral tablets, is priced at a little over $8,600.00. I can imagine Andy and Opie trying to figure out how much that comes to for a year’s supply. And, Barney shouts from the backroom

of the Courthouse, “that comes to $93,200!” And then Andy’s eyes open widely, while Opie says, “wow, Pa! That’s a lot of money, ain’t it?” And then Andy shakes his head, up and down, and says to his little son, “yes, son, it sure is!” To get a basic understanding of just how Mavacamten works, in helping to relieve the symptoms of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), we need to take a quick look at what causes HCM. HCM is caused by a

genetic mutation, mostly of the MY-H7 Gene. Basically, one in 500 people have HCM. I have HCM and I can tell you that it’s no Sunday picnic. I was first diagnosed about a year and a half ago. Sadly, in this past year, I have felt myself going downhill quite a bit. Even to walk around the block, which is about a quarter of a mile in length, I now get winded and sometimes experience severe chest pains. I have done extensive research on this phar-

Local Writer Recalls Special Connection to Jimmy Carter

BY

AREA - Before he was a writer for My Life Publications, a young Steve Sears had taken an interest in writing poetry.

“In the early to mid 1990s, I had developed an interest in poetry. In fact, one of my first professional published works were poems and reviews of poetry chapbooks.

An editor of a poetry magazine that I was fond of suggested supporting poets by buying their works, and Jimmy Carter had recently published a hardcover book of poems. I bought the book in read it, and loved his writings. After that, I thought I would write him a letter and did so, applauding his efforts while also sharing some of my poems,” Sears said.

After sending that letter to the former President, Sears didn’t think much of it. One day, a letter from the Carter Center in Atlanta showed up on his doorstep. Assuming it would be just a typed formal reply, Sears was surprised when he found a personal, hand written thank you note from Carter himself.

“The response I received was in an official Carter Center

envelope, so when I removed the contents I figured it would be an official letter type written. What President Carter had done instead was taken the first page of my handwritten letter to him and written a return note on top. Needless to say, I loved the return note, and the first thing I did was call my mom to let her know,” Sears recalls. The note reads: cc Steven, Thanks for your very nice letter.

I’m glad you liked the poems. Jimmy C. PS: I also like yours. His mother, who was not a very political woman, had always liked Carter. Sears remembers her often telling him that she always thought Carter was down to earth and a kind man.

That letter served as a great source of inspiration for the then young writer.

“First of all, it is a unique correspondent with a United States President. Not many people can say they have something so special. Second, that note encouraged me to continue my young writing career at that time, which had included op-eds to a local newspaper and the previously mentioned publi-

cations in the poetry magazines. It is a very special thing to me,” Sears said.

For the Sears family, the love of books helped lead them to establishing a family library. The Dewey Decimal-coded library still houses Carter’s poetry book. Right near the library, in a frame sits Carter’s letter back to Steve.

“For years the letter sat next to my writing desk in a frame, but now it is behind my desk in that same frame. I often look at it when I turn to get something out of my inbox or reach for a writer’s book for information and inspiration,” Sears says.

When news of Carter’s passing made its way to front pages around the world, Sears was struck with sadness. However, he knows how truly special it was that even just for a brief moment, Jimmy Carter knew who he was. As Sears reflected on his passing, he’s grateful for that little letter.

“I will always have this wonderful reminder near my writing desk of what a wonderful human being he was, and how we both shared a love of writing.”

Let your imagination and the professionals at Christmas Decor be your guide in turning your home into a

The magic begins here with

too early

maceutical prescription drug. I have talked to quite a few Cardiologists and Pharmacists about Mavacamten. Their common bond of seeing the drawback of Mavacamten, is that it is very expensive.

In this little article, it’s not my purpose to debate whether or not the high cost of Mavacamten is justified. I know that a lot of research money went into developing this prescription drug. My purpose, in writing this article, is to get the word out about Mavacamten. Presently, my Cardiologist is working on a way for me to be able to take this prescription tablet, at a more reasonable price.

The scientific explanation of what happens to the Left Ventricle of the heart in HCM, sounds like a conversation between Dr. Spock and Captain Kirk. Or better yet, like the four lads of “The Big Bang Theory” talking in their living room. So, here’s a basic outlook.

HCM is a condition in which the heart muscle fibers become thickened. This results in the heart not being able to pump blood effectively. Essentially, the heart muscles harden and are not able to pump out blood effectively. HCM can also have a damaging effect upon the heart’s electrical system. Sudden death, from exertion, is not uncommon for people with HCM.

Now, back to Mavacamten. This prescription drug targets the heart muscles, anatomically known at Sarcomeres. Mavacamten inhibits the excessive production of Myosin. This is a protein that contracts muscles. So, in inhibiting Myosin production in the heart, the heart slows down, during its contraction stage.

I know this is a most basic outlook of how Mavacamten works. But, from everything that I have read and in talking to Cardiologists and Pharmacists, Mavacamten is generally preferred over Beta-Blockers.

The complex chemical formula for Mavacamten.

Again, it’s not my purpose to get into a debate over which prescription drug is more effective for HCM, but rather just to get the word out about Mavacamten.

I share this, with great respect. I was very surprised that my General Practitioner knew very little about Mavacamten, when I first started asking her about it. In defense of my Primary Doctor, she does see a lot of patients in a day’s time. And, I know that she really doesn’t have the time to read the dozen or so medical journals that she gets every month, from cover to cover.

Odds are that someone you know has HCM. They may be an acquaintance from work, a fellow member of your religious group, a neighbor, a relative, or an old friend. The bottom line about HCM is that there really is no complete cure. Yes, various pharmaceutical prescriptions can treat the symptoms. And yes, Pacemakers and Defibrillators can treat HCM symptoms. But the harsh, cold truth, is that HCM is a progressive disease of the heart, that eventually hardens that heart’s muscles to the point where the patient gets a stroke or suddenly dies. Mavacamten may be the missing piece of puzzle, to provide outstanding help to someone with HCM.

Based upon all the heart tests and procedures that I have had endured, in the past year and a

half, I’ve had four Cardiologists tell me that I will probably pass away in my sleep, relatively soon. One of my Cardiologists, told me that, based upon all the data from my heart procedures, that I have about two years to live. My present Cardiologist told me that my symptoms will worsen, relatively soon. He told me that if I avoid strenuous activity, avoid caffeine, get eight hours of sleep each night, and eat very healthy, it could be another four or five years before my symptoms become overwhelmingly debilitating. I know I am saved by Christ and that I am going to Heaven, so I don’t worry about it. But, I do want to get the word out about lesser known treatments for HCM. And, since Mavacamten is relatively new (it was approved by the FDA in April of 2022) I do want to get the word out about it.

Life is not always fair. But no matter what is happening in your life, be it losing your job, or the loss of a dear loved one, or getting a bad medical report, please know this. God loves you, more than you will ever know. And, a miracle may soon be knocking on your door. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has had two books published. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ gmail.com.

Steve Sears still has the book of Jimmy Carter’s poetry and a very special letter from Carter about his own poetry writings

MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER

BY HENRY M. HOLDEN STAFF WRITER

AREA - Before there were paved highways in America, Native Americans created footpaths to connect villages and create hunting and trade avenues. One ancient trail stretched 200 miles from Port Jervis, New York, along the course of the Delaware River through the lower inlet and the Atlantic Ocean. The path united the clans and villages of the Lenni Lenape Native American nation that once governed the entire river watershed in today’s New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. Early European colonists referred to this prehistoric pathway as the “Minsi Trail.”

The Indigenous populations of New Jersey were exposed to a foreign culture following the European settlement along the Hudson River by the Dutch, and the Delaware River by the Swedes. These people knew themselves as the Lenni Lenape which meant “original men” although this author has seen other translations in the eastern Algonquin language. They were cousins through the Delaware group, and had a strong alliance with the Iroquois Confederation in the western part of New Jersey.

What Ever Happened to the Lenni Lenape?

The population of the Lenni Lenape when the first Europeans arrived in New Jersey was estimated to be about 2,000. But later, when the Tribe relinquished all claims in 1758 at the treaty of Easton, it was estimated that their numbers had been reduced to half the original number.

The Lenni Lenape was made subject to the Confederation whose warriors, degraded the Lenni Lenape warriors by calling them “women.”

Christopher Columbus mistakenly discovered the western hemisphere during his voyage to locate a Western Trade, route to India. He incorrectly called the Aboriginal people; Indians and the word became. a Pejorative for all native peoples. Like most tribes, Lenape communities were weakened by newly introduced diseases originating in Europe, such as smallpox but also cholera, influenza, dysentery, and recurrent violent racial conflict with Europeans.

Minsi Trail is prehistoric. Native American artifacts have been found along the rivers and streams. The local Lenni Lenape probably used the sheltered valleys to provide trail corridors for food resources.

In the northwest area of the preserve, just above where India and the Burnett Brooks join to become the North Branch of the Raritan River. According to Native American tradition, the Lenni Lenape (“Men among Men”) tribe traveled the trail from Delaware River headwaters in upstate New York to the saltwater river mouth for more than 10,000 years. The trail passes through the Delaware Water Gap where a 1,460-foothigh Mount Minsi is named for the Munsee (“people of the stony country”), the northerly group of the Lenape’s Wolf clan. The Munsee, perhaps because they lived so close to hostile Iroquois warriors in New York, were more war-like than the peaceful Turtle and Turkey clans to the south known as pacifists. The trail and its branches connected the clans and their villages with an estimated several thousand by 1600.

Lenape women and children performed more domestic-type jobs, while the Lenape men were responsible for hunting and fishing, tool making, and building shelters.

The Lenni Lenape people lived completely from what their environment provided. Women made rugs and mats on which to sit and made baskets for storing and carrying food. Clay pots were used for cooking while clamshells and gourds were used as serving bowls. Gathering and processing the area’s nuts, berries, and underground edible roots also fell to the Lenape women.

Lenape men were required to hunt deer, bear, and small game for meat. They also fished the local streams for trout, bass and, other fish. Men crafted the tools needed for hunting; bow and arrow were the most common tools for hunting land animals while fishhooks were made from animal bone. The fur from mammals served as clothing and bedding, and the feathers from large birds such as duck and geese provided down for insulation.

Both male and female tended to the agricultural needs of the village. Following the end of the frost, the Lenape would plant seeds that had been saved since the previous autumn’s harvest. Corn, beans, and squash were the typical cultivated foods.

Because there is no written record left by the Lenni Lenape, archaeologists and historians are needed to decipher the lifestyle of the native people. The only written descriptions of the Lenape come from European settlers.

Historian Charles Philhower identified and described the Lenape as three regional groups known as the Unami (south) nonelection (central) and the

Minsi (north) which were distinguish by their respective turkey, turtle, and wolf tribal totems. Each clan was further divided into individual units living in villages.

Three Minsi villages were situated in Randolph Township near the intersection of Granny’s Brook (Dover) and the Morris Canal at Dover, near Shongum and near Mt. Freedom at Calais.

Three clans made up the Lenni Lenape nation: Wolf; Turtle, and Turkey. Often, the Lenape have been referred to as the “Delaware” because they lived along the Delaware River. The Wolf Clan occupied the land in what is now Monroe County (Pa). This Clan was referred to as the Munsee or Minsi, the name of their spoken dialect of the Algonquin language. Their area stretched northward along the Delaware River from the point where the Lehigh River meets the Delaware in what is now Easton, New Jersey. The members of the Wolf Clan were known as “People of the Stony Country”

The Turtle Clan occupied land south of the Lehigh-Delaware union, reaching into Philadelphia and were referred to as “People Down the River.” The Turkey Clan lived the furthest south, occupying current-day Wilmington, Delaware. They were called the “People Who Live Near the Ocean.” The three clans were all sects of the Algonquin Tribe and generally lived peacefully with each other. The Lenape, however, did conflict with other warring nations, including the Iroquois and the Cherokee.

They were considered savages, because they had no written language to record for posterity, the living moment. They also had little regard for sanitation. They practiced a religion, unlike Christianity or Judaism that the settlers had never seen. Their religion promised a material existence after life more rewarding than the present and they sustained their lives

pit in the center of the floor. Decorative mats on the walls offered some insulation. Smoke escaped through openings in the roof which could be covered in time of rain. Braided ears of corn and herbs were hung from the ceiling, and dried.

through symbols, mysticism and superstition. They survived by hunting deer and other flesh borne animals and fished, gathered berries, and cultivating vegetables.

The fact that Lenni Lenape lived in small clans influenced their culture and economic development. This close to nature, the group reinforced its customs, and living conditions and were intimidated by the Europeans.

A remarkable effort was required by everyone to gather food sources necessary for tribal survival from the natural abundance that surround them.

The Lenape kinship system had matrilineal clans. That is, children belong to their mother’s clan, from which they gain social status and identity.

The mother’s eldest brother was more significant as a mentor to the male children than was their father, who was generally of another clan. Hereditary leadership passed through the maternal line, and women elders could remove leaders of whom they disapproved.

Agricultural land was managed by women and allotted according to the subsistence needs of their extended families. Families were matrilocal; newlywed couples would live with the bride’s parents.

During the decades of the 18th century, most Lenape was

pushed out of their homeland by expanding European colonies. Their disastrous situation was exacerbated by losses from intertribal conflicts.

The English “rewarded” the Lenni Lenape for their friendship and loyalty by requiring a treaty from the tribes, signed at Easton, in 1758. The treaty was another example of the white man taking advantage of the native population.

The treaty released all remaining land in New Jersey near the “drowned” lands along the Sussex County to the Board of Proprietors. Then most of the three tribes officially joined the Mohicans and moved into western Pennsylvania and then west to Indian territory and Wisconsin.

Those who remained in New Jersey were remanded to the first Indian reservation, at Brotherton, now known as Indian Hills. The reservation was established by friendly Quakers concerned with the welfare of the Minsi. In 1832, New Jersey State Legislature appropriated $2,000 as a final payment to the remaining Lenape for all rights to land in New Jersey. In the 21st century, most Lenape now reside in Oklahoma, with some communities living also in Wisconsin, Ontario, and in their traditional homelands.

Strategies to Manage and Tame Stress

AREA - Stress is a part of life.

In small doses, stress can have a positive effect. But when stress is chronic, it can take its toll on the body and mind. Stress can make people irritable and cause them to lash out at others. Stress also can contribute to high blood pressure and adversely affect sleep. When confronting chronic stress, individuals may have to take action to find relief. These stress-busting strategies can help.

• Engage in physical activity. The Mayo Clinic says any form of exercise can help re-

lieve stress. Physical activity boosts chemicals in the brain and endorphins that help a person feel good. Exercise also can refocus attention so a person is not preoccupied with a stressful thought or situation.

• Listen to music. Music can be calming and serve as a distraction from stressful feelings. Simply listening to music can be a quick fix for a stressful situation and a bad mood.

• Review your lifestyle. It’s easy to take on too much, but doing so can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, says

the Mental Health Foundation. Prioritizing some things over others and delegating when possible can tame stress.

• Practice mindfulness. Breathing and mindfulness exercises can be practiced anywhere. Research has shown that mindfulness can reduce the effects of stress and anxiety. Deep breathing and being in a quiet moment when stress peaks may help to reduce stress.

• Step away for a few minutes. If possible, step away from a stressful situation, whether it is a difficult project at work or a loud room with a lot of activity going on. Many people find commuting stressful. Changing the route to one that avoids busy roads, even if it takes a bit longer to get from point A to point B, might help.

• Talk it out. Sometimes connecting with others and sharing experiences can help to relieve stress. Keeping feelings in and fixating on a situation may exacerbate feelings of stress. Social situations that encourage talking and laughing can lighten a person’s mental load, says the Mayo Clinic.

• Don’t turn to substances. Alcohol and drugs may temporarily relieve stress, but this approach can lead to addiction and even worsen the physical and mental toll stress takes on the body.

Stress is a part of life, but finding ways to manage chronic stress is vital to long-term health.

This illustration shows a Lenape family inside their barkhouse. A fire for cooking and to provide warmth is burning in a

Randolph-based Interfaith Furnishings Closes Doors, Donates Remaining Funds to Maplewood-based Organization

BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER

AREA - Interfaith Furnishings, a Randolph not-for-profit service that picked up and delivered donated furniture to more than 1,700 Morris County families in need, is shuttering in the absence of a vital donor of warehouse space — and has donated the group’s remaining funds to Maplewood-based:

The Warehouse NJ.

Founded in 2004, Interfaith Furnishings (a 501c3) was the combined effort of faith communities in Morris County. The charity picked up furniture donations from those who could give – and provided the furniture to those in need living in Morris County.

The group would warehouse furniture and eventually deliver it to candidates referred by social service agencies.

With no government fund-

BY RICHARD MABEY, JR.

WRITER

AREA - This is the second condensed chapter of the book that I am presently writing, about my journey to earn scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout. This is a true story. Each and every one of us hold a destiny, a purpose, a certain knowingness of our purpose in life. It may be buried deep within the fiber and sinew of the chambers of the heart, but from time to time, God reveals glimpses of the purpose of which He gave the precious gift of life to us. And, in line with that perspective, there are people who come into our lives, beyond coincidence, who become a wonderful friend and guide to help us in our pursuit of our Divine purpose in life.

In early September of 1969, I had just turned 16 and was beginning my junior year at Boonton High School. That Saturday morning, when I walked into the foyer of the Paterson YMCA, all alone, I had no idea I was about to meet a person who would dramatically change my life for the better.

Mom had driven me to the big city YMCA, for the purpose of my beginning to take swimming lessons at their indoor pool. A fire burnt in my heart, to earn the Swimming Merit Badge, to become an Eagle Scout.

I remember I was all so nervous. I walked the long hallways to the room where the

ing, Interfaith Furnishings had proven for a duration of time to be a homegrown success story, thanks in part to donations from local individuals and organizations.

Interfaith Furnishings aided families also affected by Hurricane Katrina. An interdenominational charity, Interfaith Furnishings was one of a select few organizations providing furniture to families – at no charge – who were in a new residence after being homeless, battered, formerly ill or jobless, and who lacked the ability to furnish their housing as they began again.

The group was also recognized by former President Barack Obama as part of his faith-based initiatives partnership.

Mary Jo Welch, one of the

early founders of Interfaith Furnishings, recalls the joy of seeing clients receive furniture.

“The biggest joy in all of this was putting people in housing. They could get a house, but they couldn’t get help with furniture. To see people who are now set up to live comfortably with all the things they needed was so special and such a blessing,” Welch said.

While Welch is sad to see the Morris County doors close, she knows that folks are in good hands with The Warehouse NJ team.

“Our volunteer goodness and our mission endures — by extension — with Executive Director Kim Sleeman and The Warehouse NJ’s fellow volunteers who help furnish someone else’s new apartment or home. Never doubt that a small group

of individuals can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. To all who contributed to our noble cause, brave on through and namaste to you,” Welch says.

Sleeman added, “The Warehouse NJ’s mission is aligned with Interfaith Furnishings and we are honored and committed to continuing this important work to support our neighbors in need.”

Founded in 2019, The Warehouse NJ (a 501c3) supports individuals and families as they transition into permanent housing following a time of crisis such as homelessness, abuse, natural disaster, or political asylum.

Since 2019, TWNJ has been “helping to create a new beginning” for these individuals and families by transforming their new housing into a home with furniture and basic household items. TWNJ clients are referred by over 50 NJ-based social service agencies. TWNJ has completed over 1,680 moves in the last 5 years. To learn more about The Warehouse NJ, visit www. thewarehousenj.org

On Eagle’s Wings, Chapter 2: The Goddess

indoor pool was located. I remember it like it was yesterday. I opened the door to the pool room, and there sat this very beautiful young woman, on a chair beside the pool. When I entered the room, this beautiful goddess came over to greet me and introduce herself.

Lisa smiled as she shook my hand and introduced herself.

Lisa was to be my swimming teacher. Amazingly, the other two boys, who were scheduled for her swimming class never showed up. Lisa had just begun her junior year at Paterson State College (now known as William Paterson University). She had long brown hair. Simply put, I fell in love with her, the moment I first saw her.

I remember that Lisa was incredibly patient with me.

She taught me the proper arm and leg movements needed to become a good swimmer. She had a most gentle voice, but at

the same time, held a certain degree of authority when she spoke. Every Saturday morning, for three months, we would meet at the indoor swimming pool at the Paterson YMCA. Lisa was so unlike the girls I knew at school. She had a certain inner confidence, compassion flowed through her veins and an abounding kindness abided in her heart. I think that Lisa saw something in me. She was fully aware of the flame that burnt in my heart, to become a good swimmer. I remember Lisa once told me that I was the best swimming student that she had ever taught. Not that I was a great swimmer, that was far from the case, but rather that I was so very sincere and earnest in my quest to become a good swimmer.

About a month into our swimming lessons, my heart broke when Lisa’s boyfriend came into the pool room, to

pick up Lisa. Lisa scolded him for interrupting her class with me. He sulked as he departed the pool room. I confess, I actually felt sorry for her puppy dog boyfriend. For as kind as Lisa could be, she could also be all so very stern.

In early December of 1969, I convinced Lisa to sign up to become an official Swimming Merit Badge Counselor. Lisa proudly signed the paperwork for my Swimming Merit Badge. It was a moment that was all so near and dear to my heart.

From time to time, I think of Lisa. I pray she is alive and well. One of my deepest regrets is that I did not invite Lisa to my Eagle Scout Dinner. It was just one of those things. I don’t think I would have earned scouting’s highest rank, without Lisa’s helping hand. I am convinced, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that God brought Lisa in my life to help me along my rocky road to become an Eagle Scout.

But now, after earning the

Swimming Merit Badge, a new challenge awaited me. And that big challenge was to earn the difficult Lifesaving Merit Badge.

Lisa, if you’re reading this story, thank you for all your help.

To be continued....Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has had two books published. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ gmail.com.

any Airport or Cruise Port Transfer

Mary Jo Welch, center, who helped establish Interfaith Furnishings, poses with members of The Warehouse NJ.

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