Mt Olive October 2022

MOUNT OLIVE

No Puppy Left Behind - A Woman’s Mission to Bring Safety and Shelter to Dogs

BY MEGAN ROCHE EDITOR

AREA - When you talk to Jessica Donnelly-Knissel, you can tell that her heart beats for any and all canines. Rescuing dogs of all shapes and sizes is one of the things that keeps her going back for more. She’s a proud canine advocate.

“When we saved the original six, I never anticipated falling in love with them the way that I did. I ended up with a beagle and she has provided me with so much joy. Since the COVID-19 pandemic and going through my own medical issues, I felt this finally gave me a reason to keep moving forward. As a human, I am able to advocate for myself and these dogs cannot. I’ve designated my whole entire being to advocating for these dogs and getting them the care they deserve,” Donnelly-Knissel shares proudly.

In February of 2022, No Puppy Left Behind was born.

“Our mission is to bring light to the public that puppy mills do exist. While we cannot save them all, we have saved 60 puppy mill survivors to date, but there are still so many more who need our help. The basic needs of the poor animals are not being met. They never know when they are going to have their food and water bowls filled, and some have serious medical concerns that need to be treated. If we do not intervene, and get these dogs out, they will continue to suffer in silence,” Donnelly-Knissel says.

Donnelly-Knissel and her team continue to rally behind dogs, helping to bring them to safety as soon as possible.

“I have seen firsthand just how stressed out these dogs are

because they are starving, or so thirsty that when I give them water, they drink the whole bucket in one sitting and get sick,” Donnelly-Knissel shares.

The No Puppy Left Behind team is actively rescuing dogs from puppy mills. According to the humane society, puppy mills are inhumane high-volume dog breeding facilities that churn out puppies for a profit, ignoring the needs of puppies and their mothers. In most puppy mills, once a mother and father are no longer able to breed, they are often killed.

How can the public help No Puppy Left Behind? Continue to spread the word, donate toward the rescue, and even adopt one of their furry friends.

“We’ve had many people reach out and ask how they can help, and we’ve had so many people step up to ac-

cept these precious souls into their homes…but realistically speaking? Not everyone is in a position to do so & we get that. The outpouring support of our friends, family and community has been so heartwarming! Without all of you, this would be way more difficult than it already is! We’re trying to get as many dogs out as possible before the winter. If you, or someone you know is looking for a new ‘furever’ friend please contact me directly. Please share our mission to spread awareness for puppy mills, as they are far more common than people realize,” Donnelly-Knissel says.

Donnelly-Knissel has set up a GoFundMe page, www.gofund.me/7c0cfb12, where donations are being accepted for the cost of transporting dogs, medical attention, and more.

Many of the dogs who come through No Puppy Left Behind need to be treated for raging ear infections, open wounds, nails growing into paw pads, and some have even tested positive for heartworm.

“Their stories will literally bring tears to your eyes, as we see dogs who were once completely shut down that now open up and get to enjoy life like every dog should,” Donnelly-Knissel shares.

In the end, Donnelly-Knissel knows the dogs are grateful to be saved.

“If you can donate even $5 towards our mission, or share our fundraiser, we would be forever grateful, as will these dogs. Even after all they’ve endured, they are the sweetest, kindest souls you will ever meet,” Donnelly-Knissel says.

To keep up with No Puppy

Left Behind’s rescue efforts, follow them on TikTok at @ nopuppyleftbehind and Facebook at www.facebook.com/ jessica.donnelly.54

Mount Olive Girl Scout on Mission to Stop Spread of Spotted Lanternfly

BY JILLIAN RISBERG STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - She is fascinated by science and cares about the environment, so with the recent emergence of the spotted lanternfly it was important for Olivia Casale to inform the Mount Olive community about this environmental threat.

“I am working on my Girl Scout Gold Award project to stop the spread of the invasive species,” says the high school senior. “It’s important for us to protect the environment so we can maintain our ecosystems because Earth is our home.”

For Casale, the best possible

outcome would be everyone doing their part until the lanternfly becomes extinct in the United States. This would help many industries that have been affected.

But first she wants everyone to capture and kill spotted lanternflies.

Mount Olive Remembers 9/11

“Build circle traps, scrape eggs off of trees — and dispose of them in a bag with hand sanitizer or alcohol. I want them to know these insects are detrimental because they climb up trees, consume their sap and release honeydew (inducing) fungi and mold growth which damages trees,” says Casale.

“This causes a fungal disease that inhibits the plant’s ability to carry out photosynthesis and make the energy it needs to survive and grow. The honeydew also encourages other insects to feed on the trees.”

According to the Girl Scout — spotted lanternflies also cause serious plant damage, including oozing sap, wilting, leaf-curling and dieback. They are a tremendous threat to the agricultural and logging industries.

MOUNT OLIVE - The Remembrance Ceremony for 9/11 was held at Turkey Brook Park at 8:20 a.m. on September 11, 2022.

Bag Piper was retired officer Rob Herzog. Colors were presented by Mount Olive High School Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard. Michael McEntee performed the National Anthem and God Bless America. Invocation was presented by Pastor Kody Vagile from Mountain Top Church.

Council President Joe Nicastro thanked all our first responders and those who give their lives every day.

“As we stand here, let’s remember all who have perished, especially Hilda Marcin who was on Flight 93, Arcelia Castello who was in one of the towers and the vision of this 9/11 Memorial was Former Councilman Ray Perkins with the Administration and Council.”

On September 11, 2001, two planes crashed into the Twin Towers, American Airlines Flight 11 hit the North Tower at 8:45 and United Airlines Flight 175 crashed into the South Tower at 9:03.

Another plane, American Airlines Flight 77 hit the Pentagon at 9:37 a.m.

A final plane, United Airlines Flight 93 plowed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania after the passengers stormed the cockpit.

We will never forget where we were 21 years ago.

That evening, residents could drive by the 911 Memorial at Turkey Brook Park as two beams of light were turned on to signify the twin towers.

Council President Joe Nicastro read Lest We Forget by Regina.

The benediction was given by Pastor Kody Vagile.

And the lanternflies are detrimental to grape vineyards. In Pennsylvania alone if the spotted lanternfly isn’t contained the insect could drain the state’s economy by up to $324 million each year and cause the loss of 2,800 jobs.

However, we can prevent them from damaging the environment by checking our vehicles and items for the lanternfly to make sure not to unintentionally transport them. Avoid parking under trees because the insects can use their hind legs to jump but just fly short distances, so cars are an ideal way for them to travel.

“It’s helpful to kill a spotted lanternfly by stepping on it when its head is facing you because it can only jump forward and will jump into your shoe,” says the Girl Scout, adding if you miss it to keep trying be-

Your Chance to Win a $25 Gift Card to West Lake Chinese Takeout with the “Find Moe Life Mascot” Contest Winners From September’s

Moe Life Mascot” Contest

MOUNT

Budd

Susan Bruyere, Flanders.

Mr. Moe was hiding in the

following ads: Anthony Paterno, Beaumonte Landscaping, Mommy n Me, Entourage, Bea McNally and Leaf Guard.

to everyone who enter and congratulations to our winners!

cause after a few jumps it will lose energy and be easier to kill.

It is important to Casale that we protect trees, the environment and agriculture from the threat of the lanternfly.

As humans we often negatively affect the environment; my project influences people to make a positive impact,” she says her favorite part of this

Free Thanksgiving Dinner 2022

MOUNT OLIVE - Please come and Be Our Guest on Thanksgiving Day! We will be hosting a Traditional Thanksgiving Family Dinner for anyone who will be alone or any individual or family facing financial hardship on Thanksgiving Day at the Mt.

Olive Senior Center starting at 1:00 p.m. Meal deliveries will also be available for drop off on November 23. MUST CALL TO RESERVE! Please call Mary at 973-768-1815 or email at mary.lalama@gmail.com to reserve your seat now.

Girl Scout Olivia Casale next to the lanternfly trap she installed at the Mount Olive Municipal Building

Jessica Donnelly-Knissel’s beloved beagle Violet, saved from a puppy mill

Dr. Goldberg

leading expert

Lectures at the American Academy of Implant Dentistry Annual Session

General & Cosmetic Dentistry

As a leading authority in dental implantology, Dr. Ira Goldberg was invited to lecture in Dallas, TX last month.

Dr. Goldberg treats entire families, from toddlers to seniors. Services include dentures, cosmetics,

His topic focused on dynamic navigation, a computerized methodology for dental implant placement. As a respected educator, its not uncommon for Dr. Goldberg to share his knowledge and expertise with

“Its absolutely amazing how far dental implant technology has advanced within the last decade, let alone with-

in the last few years,” says Dr. Goldberg. “There are so many ways to place implants: static guides, dynamic navigation, free-hand techniques are a few examples.”

“Dynamic navigation is a type of robotic technology. It utilizes tracking sensors, similar to GPS. It allows for pinpoint precision when placing dental implants. Its not necessary for all implant procedures, but when you need it, its great to have.”

New Patient Special

Dr. Goldberg continues,

Raiders of the Lost Park Mud Run 2022

“We have this equipment right in our office. Not many offices have it, nor does it make sense for them to invest in it if they are not performing implant procedures on a regular basis. We perform implant procedures regularly, so we definitely have found it an indispensable tool at times.”

When asked about his role as an educator to other dentists, Dr. Goldberg thoughtfully stated, “I’ve always heard that when you’re passionate about something, it shows.

I’ve been providing implant services for over 27 years, and I’m always excited about it. I guess that’s why other doctors and dental professionals ask me for my thoughts and help. Its quite an honor, and I love to share.”

Dr. Goldberg holds many honors in the field of implant dentistry. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant Dentistry, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, just to name

Spotted Lanternfly...

FRONT PAGE

whole endeavor has been educating members of the community at farmer’s markets.

Casale is also conducting a workshop on how to build a circle trap at the Mount Olive Library. She installed traps on trees around the community to capture spotted lanternflies, including at the Mount Olive municipal building and spent the day there educating the public.

Her flyer and link on how to build a spotted lanternfly trap are posted on the town website, were sent out in the Mount Olive Recreation newsletter to 8,000 people, and are posted on the Mount Olive Recreation Facebook page.

So far, she has devoted 53 hours to this enterprise and expects to complete it by April 2023.

“I love being part of the Mount Olive Girl Scouts because it gives me the opportu-

nity to help our community,”

Casale says it’s important for us to identify issues and solve them through acts of service. “I have had amazing experiences through Girl Scouts and met many wonderful people.”

She says this project has been rewarding and enjoyable. Earning the Girl Scout Gold Award (a longtime goal) would be an honor.

No stranger to service, Casale has also worked on the Girl Scout Bronze Award, where the MOGS collected books for children to read while waiting at a laundromat, hosted events where they mentored younger Girl Scouts, and made poppies for the Mount Olive veteran’s memorial.

She completed her Girl Scout Silver Award collecting blankets for dialysis patients and increased awareness about organ donation; volunteered at her church for four years

a couple. Regarding his Diplomate status, there are only a few hundred dentists worldwide that hold this distinction.

Dr. Ira Goldberg is the owner of Morris County Dental Associates in Succasunna. He performs all phases of implant dentistry, and rarely are referrals required. 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

New

New

Dental Implants

Dr.

through Youth Ministry and Teen Advisory Board leading such events as teen mass and service projects, supporting and advising younger parish members, and making important decisions for the church community.

Casale is an active Key Club member at Mount Olive High School and has volunteered at the food pantry and food drive, safe trick or treat and Santa house. In middle school she devoted time to the 11th Hour Rescue and Mount Olive Public Library.

“My mom inspires me to do my best and help others,” the Girl Scout cites her pharmacist mom who every day gives people life-saving medicine. “She also fueled my love for science and passion for helping others.”

And that’s exactly what Casale plans to do.

General & Cosmetic Dentistry

Hackettstown

Morristown

Madison

Dug’s Rugs Referrals Keep the 41 Year Old Business Thriving BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - Dug’s Rugs was founded inn 1981 by Doug and Nancy Taylor, and in those 41 years a satisfied clientele continues to return to their store for the finest quality floor coverings, expertise and service.

Currently a 2,000 square foot retail store, the Taylors first were actually looking for a warehouse to store rugs when Doug was an installer. They located store space in Flanders, but the warehouse developed into a reliable floor covering store which sells popular brands and performs top notch installation.

The brands that Dug’s Rugs sells and installs are certainly top of the line names; Shaw,

Dixie, Dreamweaver, CorTec flooring, and much more. The Taylors and their team are experts at custom made area rugs and runners for stairs, wall-towall carpeting, Luxury Vinyl Tile, Plank hardwood flooring, and wall-to-wall installations of all kinds, and their prices are better than big box store sale prices. “We are pretty much a 100% service operation,” Doug says. “We do anything in flooring other than ceramic tiles, and we have our own installers.” That last point is important from a longevity and quality standpoint. Dug’s Rugs is well known for doing the job right the first time, as well as assuming projects from prior installers who did a job poorly

and remedying the situation.

It goes further than just selling and installing the best hardwood flooring and carpeting. It’s the congeniality, reliability, and workmanship with which Dug’s Rugs serves its customers and takes care of their homes. And the Taylors, who have lived in and raised a family in Mount Olive, are proud of their store’s history. Their many customers come from local areas and beyond, and most of the their business is referrals from friends and family members. Nancy says, “I can’t tell you how many times we’ve done parent’s homes, and then their kids will come in, and then their grandkids. They refer us right down the line to their

relatives.”

The end result is a job well done. “Seeing a house being in disarray, and then seeing it

when we’re all done, it’s a totally postcard picture,” Doug states proudly, Dug’s Rugs is located at

Bag Hunger Day at RoNetco ShopRite Stores!

AREA - To help spread the message about hunger in our community, RoNetco Supermarkets invites special honorary baggers to donate their time to bag groceries for the annual ShopRite Partners in Caring Bag Hunger Day.

At ShopRite of Flanders, local dignitaries and police officer volunteers donated their time to raise awareness for this important cause, all while bagging groceries with a smile. Customers were full

of words of encouragement for these honorary guests as they worked diligently and efficiently at the end of the registers!

Since its inception in 1999, ShopRite Partners in Caring has donated nearly $48 million dollars to more than 2,200 charities, including local food banks right in our area.

During the Bag Hunger Day events, and at ongoing happenings throughout the month of September, cashiers have

been accepting monetary donations and asking customers to “round up for hunger” to raise awareness and funds to help stock the shelves of local food pantries.

It only takes one team, one purpose and one passion to make a difference for those in need in our communities. This program aligns perfectly with ShopRite’s Purpose Statement of caring deeply about people, helping them to eat well and be happy.

Heath Village Retirement Community Hosts Fall Open House

AREA - Heath Village Retirement Community is hosting its fall Open House for prospective residents on Saturday, October 22nd. Guests will be able to choose from either an 11 am or 1 pm session. RSVP is required.

The program includes a tour of the campus and a selection

of apartments. Guests will also enjoy refreshments with current residents who will share with them what life is like at our community and answer their questions about Heath Village. For more information or to make a reservation, please call 908-684-5009.

Heath Village is a full-ser-

vice, not-for-profit, retirement community located at 430 Schooley’s Mountain Road in Washington Township, Morris County. For further information, please call 908-8524801 or visit us on our website at www.heathvillage.com. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/heathvillage.

Route 206 in Flanders. For more information, call 973584-1350.

BY STEVE SEARS

MOUNT OLIVE - “I was just finishing prepping up for our club fair tomorrow,” Halle Greenbaum says by phone from the University of Southern California, where she is now in her senior year. “I was making cookies.”

Greenbaum was baking the chocolate chipped delights for a demo, and she omitted baking soda, butter, and eggs. “We’re going to demonstrate how those specific ingredients affect the structure and taste,” she says.

Greenbaum founded the USC “Food SCience Nutrition Club” in 2020, and this summer started a GoFundMe page to support her endeavor. (*Note: That’s not a grammar error you see. The “SC” is accurate, representing the “SC” found in USC). “I founded at the club because soon after going into college, I read a book about food fraud forensics, and I had no clue that the food science field even existed. I knew right away that’s what I wanted to do. So I was already at USC, which does

not offer a food science program, and so I decided to kind of fill that niche, so that I could learn more about the field and spread it to my peers as well.”

As for the GoFundMe page, “This is the first year that I have a new eboard, and we’re actually planning things and getting the ball rolling in terms of events. This is the first year that we kind of focused on needing funding, because we can’t really put on events without it. Since we’re a registered student org, we can apply for funding from the student government, but they’re having a bunch of issues right now. They’re reviewing the application and they haven’t released it, and then once you apply you have to wait five to six weeks before you get approved. I thought the GoFundMe would just be a quick way to have some funds in our pocket so that we could start off right away.”

Greenbaum lived in Mount Olive for 18 years, and was a member of the Budd Lake First

Aid and Rescue Squad when she was 16 years old. “I was always in the field of helping people,” she says, “and I now study public health at USC. It’s kind of related, and I think I want to go into food safety which is also related to public health just in the food lens.” This past summer, Greenbaum spent the summer at Cornell University doing Dairy Microbiology research. “I always knew that I wanted to be a scientist,” Greenbaum says. “I went to medical camp in eighth grade and decided I didn’t want to be a doctor, so I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to do. But I’ve always been a foodie and loved to cook, and loved to just explore different foods so I thought that I could do a science related to food.”

On Thursday, September 1, Greenbaum and the “Food SCience Nutrition Club” – along with many other campus organizations - indeed took part in that major Involvement Fair event at USC, Greenbaum’s inviting, free cookies on the ta-

ble. “When I started the club,” Greenbaum says, reflecting back to 2020, “a lot of the people that joined were just people that knew me and helped me get it going. So now, going into our first real year, I think it is going to be well received.” She could be prophetic here: 75 new members signed up for the “Food SCience Nutrition Club” on the 1st and, per Greenbaum, planned events resonated well with the students that visited the club’s table. “It’s just really going come down to what people find interesting. We try to keep it all fun activities because a lot of people just don’t know what food science is like. If you didn’t do it and aren’t told about it, you don’t really even realize the whole industry behind it.”

Monies collected from the GoFundMe will go towards events, and Greenbaum has some nice ones planned. One is an oyster mushroom cultivation project, planning to host a beer fermentation event to teach about brewing science,

and a collaboration with an outdoors club where there will be a campfire cooking competition. “There’s definitely a lot of things,” Greenbaum says.

A Most Precious and Memorable Halloween

BY RICHARD MABEY JR. STAFF WRITER

AREA - Every Halloween, at my church, the big Trunk or Treat Halloween celebration is held. It is a long-standing tradition, filled with all so much fun for children and adults alike. Every year, 20 to 30 cars fill the parking lot of my church, such that the trunk of the cars are facing the main thoroughfare. Children, with their parents and sometimes grandparents, come from far and wide to partake of the wholesome fun and heartfilled excitement of this grand and glorious event.

Each trunk station is hosted by a church member. My mom, Janet Kemmerer Mabey, sim-

ply loved this fun-filled event. Mom cherished interacting with the children. My mom had devoted well over 25 years serving as a Crossing Guard for the school children of Lincoln Park, safely crossing them across the street as they walked to and from school.

The Trunk or Treat of 2019 was a most cherished memory for me. For it would become Mom’s last time to partake of this wonderful church event. I think, deep in her heart, Mom knew that it was going to be her last time to enjoy the presence of the enchanting faces of all so many endearing little children.

As each child came to our little station, Mom would smile at the child, with their parent or grandparent standing close by. Mom would make a big deal about the child’s Halloween costume. Then Mom would hand the child two or three little candy bars. Most people would simply throw the candy bars into the child’s trick or treat bag, but I remember that Mom made a point to hand each child his or her candy bars.

Then Mom would simply say to the child, “God loves you very much.” And the child would smile, and Mom would look into the child’s eyes and

say, “be a good boy,” or “be a good girl.” That evening Mom gave out candy bars to well over 200 children. This was a very special event that was well attended. People would come from Belleview and from neighboring towns to have their children partake of this wonderful Halloween event.

At the end of the evening, Mom only had about a half dozen candy bars left in her big basket, that was earlier filled to the brim with candy. I remember Mom looking down to the basket and tears flowed from her eyes. Mom took out her handkerchief and wiped

the tears from her cheeks.

“Well, that’s over, kind of sad,” was all Mom said as she handed me a small Milky Way candy bar. Mom took a Reese’s peanut butter cup for herself. We both ate our little candy bars. Then handed in the basket and three or four left over candy bars to one of the church Deacons.

Less than two weeks after the big Trunk or Treat Halloween event, Mom had heart surgery to replace her Aortic Valve. Sadly, the surgery was not a full success and Mom went Home to be with the Lord, the next month, two days before Christmas Day.

In memory, I return to that very special evening of the big Trunk or Treat Halloween of 2019. Mom touched the hearts of well over 200 children that night. In all so many ways, it was Mom’s farewell to all the children to whom she had safely crossed across the street, on their way to and from school.

Life is short. There really isn’t time for strife and arguments. Love one another. None of us has a guarantee for tomorrow.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail. com. Please put on the subject line: Halloween Story.

Halle Greenbaum representing the Food SCience Nutrition Club at the USC Involvement fair.

Kristeen DeCristofaro, Breast Cancer Survivor

MARK J. BONAMO STAFF WRITER

AREA - Kristeen DeCristofaro was forced to face one of her greatest fears when she was diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago. A New Jersey native and pharmacist at Saint Clare’s Health, DeCristofaro now had to navigate her disease not as an employee, but as a patient.

Her journey from hospital arrival to cancer survival at Saint Claire’s Health is one about receiving exceptional care around the corner from where she lives, while taking advantage of the type of technology that keeps the hospital ahead of the medical curve.

“I have a strong family history of breast cancer. My mom had it, and so did my aunt,” said DeCristofaro, 42, who lives in Warren County. “I started getting screened when I was 35, just to make sure that everything was okay.”

After detecting her cancer, DeCristofaro soon had her Saint Clare’s care team in place to manage through treatment, including a radiologist, oncologists, surgeons, nurse navigators, a social worker, a physical therapist specializing in lymphedema (a common side effect of some cancer treatments) and more.

DeCristofaro knew that a coordinated team would have a major impact on her level of care. A highly qualified tumor board, comprised of the exceptional medical team, collaborated to help her determine the best course of treatment. It was the power of this team working together that enhanced every level of care to help her reach the best patient outcome.

“Initially they didn’t know if I was going to need radiation or chemotherapy. They knew obviously that I was going to have surgery of some type to remove the cancer, so they all put their different disciplines together to develop an attack plan,” DeCristofaro said.

“Then everyone sits down, and they talk to you about your case. At a close-knit commu-

nity hospital like Saint Clare’s, you benefit from that personal touch right when you really need it. They don’t treat you like a number. They treat you like a human being.”

DeCristofaro chose to have a double mastectomy, largely because of her family’s history. Her surgery took place only about two and a half months after her diagnosis.

“They actually saw multiple spots in one breast during my biopsy. There were three separate cancerous lesions. I didn’t want to take the risk of it spreading. Let’s just knock it all out,” DeCristofaro said. “When my mom had cancer, she had her mastectomies two years apart, which was a lot. So I made the decision that I wanted to get this all done, all together. Now, it’s all taken care of.”

Radiation therapy was another important element of DeCristofaro’s treatment. While radiation treatment can leave many patients apprehensive, DeCristofaro noted that the setting and advanced technology at Saint Clare’s put her mind at ease.

“I actually had a wonderful experience with radiation here. I’ve heard that other places are very cold. People just kind of treat you like a body and push you through the process. During my treatment at Saint Clare’s, I had to be there every weekday for six weeks for a total of 30 treatments. My treatment ran like a well-oiled machine, very efficient. But at the same time, it was very warm and personal.”

DeCristofaro described her radiation treatment as something that became part of the natural rhythm of her life.

“They put you on a table the first time you go to the treatment room, and they make a mold that you lay in every day. Then you lay in the exact same position every single time when this beam goes around you, kind of like an open air MRI. You stay still

for about 10 or 15 minutes, then it’s over.”

After her radiation treatments, DeCristofaro’s cancer care team remained committed with her case.

“My physicians and team checked in with me constantly. They were available to me day and night. I could talk to them whenever I needed them,” she said. “And the nurse navigators, a unique part of care here at Saint Clare’s, did an amazing job for me before my surgery. They literally held my hand at times to get me through what I had to deal with. All of it is, of course, a little scary. It’s so important to have the right people around you.

I felt very strongly that medical team was on the same coordinated plan and that they were very supportive. Cancer isn’t just physical, it’s mental. It’s your life, it’s your family’s life, it’s everything.”

DeCristofaro was surrounded by the same circle of care at Saint Clare’s for her reconstructive surgery and for her ongoing treatment.

“It’s been a journey, but I feel good, and my prognosis is good. I’ll have side effects from medications I need to take for the next several years, but they’re manageable. I’m an optimistic person. Between my care team and my family, I have every reason to be.”

DeCristofaro has spoken to other women who are going through breast cancer treatment. Overall, she had two solid pieces of advice.

“I would tell anyone seeking breast cancer treatment to come to Saint Clare’s. I knew I was going to get great care close to home, and I knew I was going to have exceptional doctors and nurses. I knew I was going to have a whole team of people with me. They really treat the whole person,” DeCristofaro said. “Otherwise, if you find out you have breast cancer, center yourself and make a plan. Don’t believe everything you read on the internet. Make your plan, then

take it one step at a time, and don’t get ahead of yourself. You’ll get through to the other side of this. You can do this.”

For more information about cancer care at Saint Clare’s Health, visit https://www. saintclares.com/services/ breast-care/

Kristeen DeCristofaro

FOR YOUR HEALTH

Not All Headaches are Created Equal

- Almost everyone has experienced a headache, at some point in their life, to varying degrees. In fact, roughly 45 million Americans suffer from Headaches each year. In today’s world, most people reach into the medicine cabinet for one of the various

pain relievers to alleviate their head pain. But what happens when that doesn’t work? Or, the headaches become more frequent and more painful? Some get headaches so often and so painful, they even take prescription drugs with side effects and no avail. But have you ever

stopped to think, “What is causing my headache?” Headaches and more severe headaches, known as Migraines, can be caused by various triggers including foods, chemicals or preservatives in foods, allergens in the environment, chemicals in cleaning products or herbicides/

pesticides, sinus congestion, tension in the neck or jaw, lack of sleep, dehydration, stress, and the list goes on… Sometimes the cause is completely unknown and with no relief the patient can be left hopeless, debilitated and in pain. An assessment by an Acupuncturist can often identify and treat imbalances (that are causing the headaches) that are unknown to the patient previously.

In Chinese Medicine not all headaches are created equally. Rather, during an assessment, we evaluate the individual patient on many levels to determine their exact symptoms (i.e Is the headache frontal? One sided? Behind the eyes? Is there nausea? Frequency and intensity of pain?....) and if there are any triggers. We take a whole body approach and assess the patient’s physical condition as well as their constitution, emotional health, diet and lifestyle. Unlike the blanket treatment western medicine offers which is typically some type of pain

reliever, Chinese Medicine finds a specific treatment for each patient based on their individual symptoms. Five patients suffering “headaches” may receive five completely different treatments. By addressing the root cause, Acupuncture can be a safe way to prevent and treat various types of headaches, without the unwanted side effects of medications.

Based on the individual assessment and diagnosis, tiny needles are inserted into various points on the body. Depending on the case, small electrodes can be attached to specific needles that elicit a small electrical current. The feeling of the electric stimulation on the needles is a comfortable sensation that generally elicits a feeling of tingling, tapping or heaviness. The electric stimulation enhances the release of specific neurochemicals which aids in the treatment of headaches. The needles are typically retained for 20-30 minutes, during which the patient is left

to relax and take a nap.

Acupuncture is known to be effective and can offer long standing results, but it is not always a quick fix. Especially if the headaches are chronic, several treatments may be required to achieve the full result. Again, this is because it is addressing the root cause and not just covering up symptoms like other treatments.

If you suffer from headaches or migraines start getting relief today! Use the following tips to achieve long- lasting results for a healthy life: Be aware, track food and environmental triggers to see if there are any patterns, get adequate sleep, eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits (limiting sugars and processed foods), drink plenty of water, manage stress with things like meditation and try Acupuncture!

For more information about Acupuncture and Headaches contact Mount Olive Acupuncture & Wellness 973-527-7978.

MOUNT OLIVE

Mount Olive Jr. Marauder Selected to Take Part in Football Combine

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - Mount Olive Jr. Marauder President, John McBride, remembers the play vividly.

It’s highlight reel stuff.

“In the championship game last year,” McBride says, “he was back at quarterback. He had a snap that went over his head, and he picked up the snap at his own end zone. It looked like it was going to be a safety for the other team, but he reversed field and took the ball back 100 yards to score a touchdown.”

McBride speaks about Mount Olive’s 14-year-old Brayden Longo, who has been selected to take part in the National Middle School Combine in Dallas, Texas from December 15 through December 19, 2022. Afterwards, he and his family will attend the US Army bowl, which features college All-Americans.

“Thanks to coach John McBride, I was one of the players selected to take part in this event,” Longo says. “When I found out after my parents, I was thrilled, actually. I was also very shocked to be accepted into this. It’s a really big thing for me.”

Longo is one of 22 running

backs throughout the nation to be selected. The greatest middle school players from across the country will visit the combine for a week at the Dallas Cowboys training facility, where they’ll be tested by taking part in various drills and interviews. “It’s like the National Football League,” McBride says. “It’s like when the NFL prospects go to Indianapolis every winter. Same thing, except it’s a younger age group.”

“There’s going to be football IQ testing in the classroom with the NFL coaches and college coaches,” Longo says of the upcoming combine. “There’s going to be positional breakouts in classroom, and I think individual breakouts with each of our roles. There’s also going to be an athlete evaluation.” All results will go to a collegiate football database, which is important. College football and future NFL stars have been discovered and developed further when taking part in combines, so attendees this December will be watched closely as they move up the football ranks.

“Brayden has been in our football program since he

was seven-years-old as a flag player,” McBride adds about Longo. “He’s one of if not the greatest football player that has come through the program in the 65-year history of the Junior Marauders. He broke a single season Mount Olive touchdown record last year; he scored 30 total touchdowns on the way to leading his team to a second straight undefeated season and the league championship. He wants it more than anyone else out there. He’s super competitive, he’s laser focused, and he’s just an animal on the field. He’s a man amongst boys. He is also a safety on defense. He’s incredible on every side of the ball.”

Keith Koller and the Junior Marauder coaching staff, who have supported Brayden and his teammates, in 2022 are seeking a three peat.

Jodi Longo, Brayden’s mom, is also impressed with her son’s on-field maturity. “He’s constantly talking to and helping his teammates,” she says proudly. “I was very surprised when I noticed a year or two ago, and even last year, him doing that. He’s very mature as an athlete.”

Brayden speaks about that

maturity as well. “I think that I bring leadership. I don’t let anyone down, and I’m especially grateful for my opportunity to be able to get to this point. I’m very aggressive and competitive as well and, most importantly, I know how to deal with trash talkers - people trying to get inside of my head. I let my pads do the talking.”

“He’s a tremendous athlete. I played college baseball and semi-professional baseball, and think he’s a much better athlete than I was at the time,” says Frank Longo, Brayden’s dad. “Like my wife said, he’s very mature, he works hard in practice, he gives it his all. You never question his work ethic or the effort he brings to each game. He’s a pleasure to watch; he’s just a talented young man.”

As for his future goals, Brayden – who says his favorite players are Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry and San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Beebo Samuellooks forward to bringing his talent to the field for Mount Olive High School, and then hopefully to a Division One college team and, eventually, the National Football League.

Recalling the Budd Lake Rams 1957 Championship Season

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - When you visit Skull Rock at Turkey Brook Park in Mount Olive and see what a success the Mount Olive Junior Marauders football program has become, take a brief ride heading along Route 46 west and take a peek at old Budd Lake School, set high upon the hill across the way.

It all started there, in the back of the school, 65 years ago, when the Budd Lakes Rams took part in a three-team league and won the first title of their young football lives.

“My uncle was part of it,” recalls Ray DeGraw. “He was a coach my Uncle Clyde. I guess it was a group of different communities that started up the league. Netcong had a team, Stanhope had a team, and maybe Randolph. I know he talked about me playing, and I do remember my father wasn’t excited about it, because he was afraid I’d get hurt. And I think what ended up happening was

my mother signed it, and I remember they had a discussion about that. But since my uncle was doing it, I think they felt a little more relaxed that I would be playing.”

DeGraw then looks at a photo of himself in uniform that first season. The writing on the back of the photo reads, November 17, 1957 champion football player Ray E DeGraw Jr the 1957 Rams.

That would be the first year. DeGraw and Charley Davenport played all five

years, and were recognized at the end. “There was a mix of different guys that we played with along the way,” DeGraw recalls. “The Lyons boys (Bobby and Chuck) were a couple of them that played a few years.

I think the Chamberlain boy played, but I can’t remember a lot of the other ones that did play with us. We had different kids along the way, and we all went to Budd Lake School. We actually practiced at Budd Lake School.”

Davenport recalls that,

when practicing at the school headlights from cars provided the lighting needed. “I can’t remember that,” DeGraw says with a laugh. “But probably it was so at that time of year. And we practiced later on, so I wouldn’t doubt that. It’s a good memory.”

“Yep, absolutely, that is in-

delible,” Davenport says of his recall. “And that was the first year. I don’t know if we did that afterwards. We didn’t have what these guys have in a stadium now. We used car headlights.”

“I was nine in 1957,” Davenport says. “That first year, I just remember everybody be-

ing bigger than I was - and they probably weren’t. I was just a little guy out there. And I think I’m right in this name. Joe Esposito, he was a high school teacher at West Morris Regional High School at the time. My brother was in high school, and

Brayden Longo (courtesy of the Longo family)

Ray DeGraw as a 1957 Budd Lake Ram

Charlie Davenport

The Passion of Mount Olive’s PES, Stop-Motion Brains Behind Fresh Guacamole

BY JILLIAN RISBERG STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - He’s the ‘stop-motion master,’ creative genius behind Roof Sex, Western Spaghetti, Human Skateboard and many other visionary short films. For PES (Adam Pesapane) — twisting people’s perception of the familiar has always been exciting to him.

“It’s the joy I get as a creator, you not only give people a good experience but leave them with an idea they never thought possible — that avocados look just like grenades (Fresh Guacamole/2012 — shortest Oscar-nominated film that was included in Showtimes Short Stories),” the Budd Lake native says.

Currently animating BUTTONS, PES says there are few objects with such a universal positive association. People don’t like to throw them away.

According to the artist, we get attached — maybe because they have little eyes looking out at us, or warmth of connection and affection.

“They are right to see this object in a different way,” says PES. “I’m expressing my appreciation for buttons as an aesthetic object and the creativity gone into a simple circular shape over the last 600 years. You hope it gets communicated and people feel it in the film.”

PES’ artistic leanings date back to his Jersey youth, where he took watercolor lessons from a children’s book illustrator in Long Valley. The streak continued in college, as he studied printmaking and made his own books in 15th-century copper-etchings at the University of Virginia.

He doesn’t make films to generate a message, but encourages connections within the world around us.

In his (2002 stop-motion

short Roof Sex), two chairs represent people with ‘legs,’ ‘arms’ and ‘backs.’ PES used doll furniture to teach himself how to animate (since he had no prior film experience).

One seat, a family heirloom, was given to the artist by his parents.

“I thought, ’what would these chairs want to do after being cooped up in the living-room for 25 years, Roof Sex.’ There’s anthropomorphism there,” the animator says. “A candy corn is a candy corn to a billion people but if you make the animation look like a flame it can easily become fire.”

The possibilities are endless.

“It’s wonderful to think anything I can put in front of the camera and manipulate one frame at a time can become a subject or a movie,” he says.

This is how PES’ mind works. He says his films try to make you believe in an alternate reality.

In Submarine Sandwich (2014) there is an Italian deli stuffed with old sporting equipment because from the outside ‘it looks kind of like it.’

His first viral phenomenon, Western Spaghetti, he used dice as sugar cubes. As one could imagine — it’s tough for PES to walk into a supermarket. Every time he sees a pile of avocados, he thinks, grenades.

“Potential all around us for inanimate objects to become other things,” says the filmmaker. “That is the joy of filmmaking.”

The first film he shot (2006) on a DSLR camera didn’t have the Live View feature essential for stop motion.

So PES faked it with his

Canon 20D by taping a digital camera through the viewfinder.

By the time the 40D came out (2007) with Live View it was transformative.

Dragon Frame created the software to interface with all the DSLR cameras and provide the tools he needs to compare/ contrast frames and line everything up with the LIVE feed.

“It’s hard to imagine going back to a time where we had such trouble seeing the quality of our animation as we were doing it,” says PES.

His biggest influence as a filmmaker is Czech surrealist Jan Švankmajer.

In the 1960s and 70s, even 80s -- Švankmajer made films with animated objects.

“I discovered these films around the time I was getting interested in making a short film of my own,” PES says it awakened something in him. “Made me realize I love this stuff and have to create in this medium.”

When he ran out of money and no-one would hire him because he was the guy who did Roof Sex, the artistic talent had to dig into his own pockets and start making little films with little objects.

Back in the day he felt we were moving towards a place where re-watchable was the most important thing.

“Better to make a 10-second film people watched five or 10 times than it was to make a three-minute film they watched one minute of,” PES says. “My philosophy is ‘short is powerful.’”

Once his work caught on he got hired by big brands to do commercials, which allowed him to play on a different level because you have a lot more money. The animator says he

PES shooting Submarine Sandwich short film doesn’t have that kind of money for his personal art.

“It’s also good to remind yourself you can return to your roots and make a film on your own,” says PES. “I was inspired by advertising — that short storytelling and rapid editing. It’s always a struggle as an artist to figure out how you’re going to pull together the resources to make a film.”

It’s about reinvention. The animator didn’t think anyone, including his family, considered he would quit his advertising job (there he had access to the short content coming out of Amsterdam and Sweden) and sit on a hot roof for two months in order to make that film.

“But it changed my life” says PES, of perhaps going

into years of debt for shooting a one-minute furniture ‘pornography’ film if it wasn’t successful was daunting.

“You have to jump blindly and hope your parachute opens,” he calls it his moment, even after everyone told him they didn’t get it or it was stupid.

When I got the accolades (Best First Film award at France’s Annecy Animation Festival) and worldwide response to Roof Sex, it rewarded the chance I took with it and that I believed in myself.”

All the objects he works with, according to the animator, are part of our life and have a story to tell. It can be teased out of them or one may recognize what they didn’t see before.

FROM PAGE 8 Championship Season...

my brother was five years older than me. I believe my brother came home and told my father that Joe Esposito and some other guys are starting a new team, and that I needed to go play. I don’t know what I knew about football when I started, but apparently, I liked it,” says Davenport, who played as both a Rams quarterback and kickoff specialist. “That was – and I’m pretty positive, I’ve said this so many times so it has to be the truth - the very first year of little league football in the whole area. We only played the Netcong Giants, and the other one was the Packers, and I think it

Ready

in

was Stanhope. But there were just the three of us playing Round Robin - that first year anyway.”

Davenport also tries to remember the humble uniforms of those days. “I can’t remember the equipment, but it was full uniform, and I’m sure I’m positive that face masks were single bar. I’m not sure we got into more than single bar until we got into high school. But you know, the helmets were Rams helmets. They were probably tissue paper things compared to what it is today. I can’t say that I remember games, but I remember red and

It’s how PES relates to the world and learns about things in a deeper way.

Western Spaghetti (2008) took him on a New York City adventure to a 79th Street yarn store, where he hung out with 90-year-old women who helped him find yarn that looked like mozzarella cheese. He says they thought he was crazy.

“It’s fun to do these films and they are (also) a lot of work,” says the animator. “But I’m grateful there seems to be an appetite for them and an audience that appreciates them. They are artworks that express a unique personal point of view. I try to keep the authenticity.”

For more information on PES, visit www.pesfilm.com

white uniforms.”

DeGraw played guard on offense, and on defense he was nose guard. “I played right over the center, and one of the things I remember was they were slow on the snaps, and we used to work on trying to slap the ball. As soon as that the center would move the ball, I tried to slap it sometimes. That was the way you’d get a fumble on it.”

DeGraw than pauses, and reflects once more. “We did have a lot of fun as a group, and that I think was the best thing. And then winning…anytime you win is always fun, obviously.”

CCM President Iacono Gains Two New Honors

AREA - County College of Morris (CCM) President Anthony J. Iacono once again has been ranked among the most esteemed leaders in higher education in New Jersey, named both to ROI-NJ’S list of The Top 25 Most Influential Presidents and NJBIZ’s Power 50 in Education.

In its ranking, ROI-NJ credited Iacono for leading CCM to become a comprehensive college focused on the needs of the community, benefiting many diverse individuals. It additionally noted that CCM is recognized as a leader in advanced manufacturing education. Also named to that list were the presidents of Princeton, Rutgers and Stevens Institute of Technology.

This year, Iacono also was listed on ROI-NJ’s Influencers: Power List – Higher Education, marking the third consecutive year he has received that honor. Also this year, he was named to its Influencers: Manufacturing list.

In announcing its finalists, NJBIZ noted the ranking serves “to recognize those who con-

tinue to go above and beyond in their respective fields to keep standards high (and) new programs debuting.” Iacono was one of only two community college presidents named to that list. This is the fourth consecutive year Iacono has been named to the Power 50 Education list.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by NJBIZ and ROI-NJ as a respected leader in higher education alongside my colleagues across New Jersey who are making a difference at their colleges and in their communities. The talent and exceptional leadership continue to grow in New Jersey,” said Iacono.

“The support CCM receives from our local communities, including students and parents, as well as our industry, business and educational partners throughout the state and nation is inspiring and drives our mission. One of my greatest satisfactions leading a community college comes from cultivating relationships and partnerships that impact and improve lives.”

Included among the recognitions CCM has received

this year are being ranked as Best Community College in New Jersey by Best Accredited Colleges and receiving a Good Neighbor Award from New Jersey Business Magazine for its Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center, confirming the college as a frontrunner in preparing students for successful careers. In addition to offering degrees, CCM has become one of New Jersey’s economic engines by offering industry-recognized credentials to provide a highly educated and skilled workforce for regional employment. CCM’s Center for Workforce Development also operates a highly successful apprenticeship program in advanced manufacturing with a 92 percent employment rate.

“As a community college, CCM’s goal is to demonstrate that it is ‘One college caring for all of its communities,’” said Iacono. “With the support of our Board of Trustees, faculty, staff and administration, state and national legislators, county commissioners, local officials and community leaders, we

continue to position CCM as a college of choice in our quest to build stronger communities by providing diverse populations with a high-quality education.”

Cherish Thy Beloved Memories: The Cousin As Close As A Brother Be

BY RICHARD MABEY JR. GUEST WRITER

AREA - If there was ever a true-life Richie Cunningham and Fonzie, it was my cousin, Edward Mabey and myself. I was the clean-cut scout leader, being a bit shy and Ed wore a leather jacket, was outgoing and was bigger than life.

Although we were cousins, we were closer than a lot of brothers are. Ed is a few years younger than me. Ed was in his early twenties, when his mom and dad moved to Nevada. Ed moved into the old Mabey Homestead with us for a few years. It was during those years that Ed and I grew to become brothers in spirit.

It was in the late 1970’s that Ed, my sister Patti, and myself were all taking evening classes at County College of Morris.

Ed was studying engineering, Patti was studying psychology and I was taking a lot of various writing classes. After working all day at our respective jobs, we would quickly eat supper and then zoom up Route 10 to County College. It was a grand and glorious time.

Ed was an outstanding bowler and I was a wonderfully mediocre bowler. But it

didn’t matter at all. I remember it was on Wednesday evenings that none of us had any classes. Ed and I would drive out to Boonton Lanes and bowl two or three games. There was the old refreshment stand, the sound of all the bowling balls rolling down the aisles and hitting the pins, and the echo of a dozen different conversations filling up the bowling alley. I remember it as a most magical and wonderful era.

Ed and I actually fell of the Grand Canyon for the girl next door. For a while, it created a bit of a conflict for us. It was Ed who won Tammy’s affec-

tion with his outgoing charm. They did date for a while, but both of them decided that it was better for them to be neighborhood friends than to have a romantic relationship. Despite it all, Ed and I remained as close as brothers.

Today, Ed is married and has two sons. While we do keep in touch with Facebook, our rapport of being as close as brothers had dissipated quite a bit. Kind of sad in a way, but it’s just the way life is at times.

In memory, I can return to that magical era when Ed’s

Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of County College of Morris, with students at one of the college’s Welcome Back events.

An old photograph from 1980 showing my cousin Edward Mabey (left) and yours truly (right), in the living room of the old Mabey Homestead.

Morris County Man Releases Book About Morristown Ghost Hoax

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

AREA - For Denville resident Peter Zablocki, it is always a whirlwind of activity, and if you’re a history fan – especially the local stuff – enjoy being swept up.

Zablocki’s latest offering, The 1788 Morristown Ghost Hoax: The Search for Lost Revolutionary War Treasure, was published by The History Press in July, and is available - appropriately - as the fall and Halloween seasons enter.

“I’m always full of ideas,” Zablocki says. “Once I start researching because I’m curious, the research always leads to ‘Well, I want to tell that story,’ so that leads to me writing. It’s been a lot.” And it leads to more for the ardent researcher. “I always want to write, I’m always asking questions, and especially the research. You find one thing while you’re researching something else, and that gets you going, and then you kind of put it to the side, and then you come back to it.”

His readers, no doubt, are grateful for it, but partner the above with his co-hosted “History Teachers Talking” podcast, his job teaching History and Advanced Placement Research at Kinnelon High School, and also being Vice-President of the Denville Historical Society, Museum, and Research Center, he’s happily immersed in his subject matter.

Minus giving too much away, The 1788 Morristown Hoax: The Search for Lost Revolutionary War Treasure, starts in Schooley’s Mountain, where a supposed treasure was buried. “I call this one of my ‘COVID Trilogy,” Zablocki says. “I wrote it the same time, believe it or not, as I wrote Denville 13: Murder, Redemption, & Forgiveness in Small Town New Jersey and Terror Over Elizabeth New Jersey: Three Airplane Crashes in 58 Days and the Fight for Newark Airport. I almost felt like a detective to be honest with you. I started doing this because the story of the Morristown Ghost has been told numerous times, perhaps not so much recently, but there are a lot of different books about stories of New Jersey and it’s always incorporated into those fables. It’s very much next to your New Jersey Devil. There’s a ghost, and then so on and so forth, and there had been a reenactment of the story that was done in Morristown years ago in the

1980’s. I started looking into it and asked myself, ‘How much of it is a fable?”

Here’s the gist of it. There was local legend that British Loyalists had buried a Patriot treasure on Schooley’s Mountain prior to fleeing as George Washington and his troops were approaching. In 1788 Ransford Rogers, a former Connecticut school teacher, led prominent Morristown families to believe that a ghost was protecting the treasure, and that he, Rogers, alone could exorcize it. His goal? Extortion of money from the families.

“Once you start really looking into the sources,” Zablocki says, “you realize that actually, it’s not really a fable at all. It was a real event that transpired in Morristown in the 1700’s. There are court records of it.

I was trying to place this story, take it out of fiction, where it kind of has been dwelling for the past couple of hundred years, and put it back into history. How did this happen? So if this happened, and I was able to find out that it did, why did it happen? Why would a group of wealthy members of Morris County, Morristown society, believe there to be a ghost?”

Did Rogers succeed? Read the book.

Zablocki has been churning out books with regularity the past few years. In addition to

Denville 13 and Terror Over Elizabeth, he has also had published Bullets That Changed America: Thirteen Historic Assassinations, Duels, Misfires, and Murders, Denville Goes to War: Denville’s Story of World War I, and the follow-up, Denville in World War II. And with The 1788 Morristown Ghost Hoax, he is quick to recognize those who, during the pandemic, were kind enough to help when needed. “The libraries were super awesome,” Zablocki says. “A lot of different local libraries, including the Denville Library in Denville, as well as the Morris County Library or Morristown Library, were able to get me the books that I needed. I would pull up and they’d put them in my trunk. Also, the Morris County Historical Society actually opened the doors for me during the lockdown with the primary documents and files that I needed with regards to this case. I’m very thankful to local historical societies and libraries for allowing me to do research regardless of the fact that most of the world was locked down.”

The 1788 Morristown Ghost Hoax: The Search for Lost Revolutionary War Treasure, is available at both www.Amazon.com and www.BN.com. For more information about Peter Zablocki and his work, visit www.peterzablocki.com.

Peter Zablocki (courtesy of Peter Zablocki)

Mount Olive

Former Mayor Paul Licitra

Utah Man Walks Across the United States and Enjoys the People and Places in NJ

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER

AREA - Utah resident, Isaiah Glen Shields, has been walking across the United States for the past 18 months, and recently arrived in New Jersey.

While passing through, he strolled the streets of some of the My Life Publications publication areas, and he met up with some very nice people and beautiful landscape.

According to his Facebook page, Shields passed through Phillipsburg, Hackettstown, Roxbury, Denville, Butler, Pompton Lakes, Riverdale, and Oakland. When contacted by phone, he was on a traffic heavy street in Norwalk, Connecticut, but he had not forgotten stepping through the upper portion of the Garden State. Shields first entered New Jersey in September by crossing over the Route 22 bridge from Easton, Pennsylvania, and landed in historic Phillipsburg. “I think I had looked at

bedroom was just down the hallway from me, in the old Mabey Homestead. We would take breaks from studying in our rooms, and go downstairs and have hot chocolate and a couple of oatmeal cookies. It was a simpler time.

The fiber, the weave, the echo of those days that we thought we’d stay young and never grow old, haunt me at times. Sometimes, I awaken at

New Jersey on the map to just sort of get the gist of what I was going to be expecting. I guess everybody has a little bit of an inkling of what places look like,” he says. “I’ve never been

two in the morning from having dreamt of their memory. At 69 years old now, I regret not taking more pictures during that magical and mystical era.

As George Harrison sang to us all those years ago, “all things must pass.” Cherish your loved ones, that you still have with you. Hold them dear to your heart. Time and physical distance can often cause close family ties to fade.

to India, but when I picture India, I picture the Taj Mahal and crowded streets. I don’t think I’ve ever spent much time in New Jersey, and I saw a picture with a lot of suburban build up.

But what I wasn’t really expecting to find was so much nature, and I guess ‘The Garden State’ is a slogan that people haven’t really understood well outside of New Jersey. There’s a lot of really, really beautiful things here.”

Shields’ videos show him walking the industrial area of the city of Phillipsburg, but in contrast also strolling by serene farmlands right off of Route 57 in Washington Township prior to hitting Hackettstown. “No

Sometimes, the good Lord will call a loved one Home to Heaven. For all that any of us really have, is this sacred moment in time. Show your dear family members the love you have for them. None of us really know what tomorrow will bring.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ hotmail.com.

Paul

Isaiah Glen Shields at Donaldson’s farm in Hackettstown

Welcome Jersey Mike’s Subs of Flanders

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Sheard

Man Walks...

matter where I go, the sunset is visible there if you’re there at sunset, and with the people I met, there’s a lot of value in their story no matter what area it happens to be in,” he says.

“There was no major source of inspiration,” Shields says regarding his reasons to walk across the country. “Everybody has ideas that cross their mind from time to time. Some people have the idea to join a high school football team or to open a popcorn stand, restore an old Corvette in their garage. I was sitting at work one day and I had the idea, got kind of passionate and couldn’t stop thinking about it, and eventually I just left. It was pretty uncomplicated, just really pretty random and arbitrary, and sounded like something I wanted to do.” Shields’ career is what you see. His walk has become a source of revenue on social media for him. “Hopefully I can just keep

doing something like this. But prior to me departing, I worked as a corporate finance analyst.”

Shields also has created a You Tube channel titled “You Do You.” “I often tell people that in order to be happy, they need to radically change their lifestyle. My core thing I kind of believe is that ‘You Do You’ is supposed to embody is just to act on those things that speak to you most deeply. I just bought a house, graduated college, had a mortgage, and was sort of on a good path for security. But I had this idea that just kept me up at night and really, really spoke to my soul in some way.”

Shields’ ultimate destination is Lubec, Maine, the eastern-most point of the United States, and will eventually commit his travels to a book project.

Shields also discovered that New Jerseyans can be pretty congenial folks, too. “People

told me there might be some people who are less interested in my journey while I was in New Jersey, and I’ll just have a bit of an experience there,” he says. “Really, there’s just as many people kind people in New Jersey as anywhere. I had people open their homes to me, I had people letting me stay on their property, and people inviting me in to show me their lives and their lifestyles.”

Shields met one couple who worked for M&M Mars in Hackettstown. “They met me on the streets of Hackettstown,” he explains. “They didn’t really know a lot about me at the time, but they looked me up later. Then, when I was in New York City, they drove out and gave me a tour of the M&M store there in Times Square. You never know what kind of opportunities are going to come when you do something like this.”

MOUNT OLIVE - On April 30, 2022 Jerry Sheard and Cynthia (Nolan) Planz were married at St. James Church, 214 Washington St., Hackettstown. The reception was held at Holiday Inn Intl Trade Zone, Mt Olive.

Her Maid of Honor was her daughter Jeanette Nolan. Cin-

dy’s Granddaughter Julianna Fox was the Junior Bridesmaid. Ushers included grandsons William Fleck, Robert Nolan Jr, Michael Fox, Lucas Nolan, Brian (Trey) Nolan.

Her two sons Brian and Robert Nolan walked Cindy down the aisle.

Jerry’s son, Gerald Sheard Giddings was Best Man. Father Wayne Sherrer performed the service. There were many friends and family in attendance to celebrate our day. Congratulations to the happy couple.

Mount Olive School District Earns an A

MOUNT OLIVE - The Mount Olive School District is one of the best K-12 school systems in New Jersey according to Niche. com, a website that compiles data to determine the nation’s best places to live, work, and learn. In the recently released 2023 rankings, Mount Olive once again earned an “A” rating, placing the district in the top 6% nationwide and 47th in New Jersey.

“Thank you to all the families, faculty and staff members, administrators, community members, and the Board of Education for their continued commitment to providing the best possible educational experience to the students of Mount Olive,” said Robert Zywicki, Ed.D, superintendent of schools. “Every day I see the innovation, caring, dedication, and student engagement that have become the hallmarks of this school district. I couldn’t

be prouder of serving as superintendent.”

Mount Olive High School, Mount Olive Middle School, Mountain View Elementary School, and Tinc Road Elementary School each received a score of “A.” Chester M. Stephens Elementary School and Sandshore Elementary School each earned an “A-.” The high school and middle school both were in the top 100 New Jersey schools in their grade configurations.

To arrive at the rankings, Niche examined data from the U.S. Department of Education as well as test scores, college data, and ratings collected from Niche users. Each district received a letter grade for academics, diversity, teachers, college prep, clubs & activities, administration, sports, food, and resources & facilities.

The Niche ranking is the third significant independent

recognition for the District in recent months. In May, Mount Olive High School was named one of the best high schools in the country by U.S. News and World Report. MOHS ranked in the top 8% of high schools nationwide and received an overall score of 91.6%. The scoring criteria included college readiness, the percentage of students completing AP courses, the graduation rate, and the percentage of students proficient in math, reading, and science. In June, Mount Olive’s personalized learning programs shared the national spotlight at the 30th annual Model Schools Conference in Orlando, Florida. MOHS was one of just 16 schools to be selected as a 2022 Model School by the International Center for Leadership in Education, an organization that supports effective instructional practices that lead to accelerated learning for all students.

Bucket List Travels

BY PAUL PARTRIDGE STAFF WRITER

AREA -Swimming with Sea

Lions

The Galápagos Islands were everything I expected –and even more that was unexpected.

Day 1: Salvador Dalí on Mars

A sunrise flight from Ecuador’s capitol city Quito brings us to Baltra Island and the waiting cruise ship La Pinta. With only 24 total cabins, La Pinta is an ideal size – big enough to have all the amenities you need/want and small enough to provide lots of personal attention. The cabins are larger than typical cruise lines.

Within hours we’re into our first island expedition –exploring South Plaza Island. Ten eager passengers leap into a Zodiac boat a la Jacques Cousteau (the locals prefer the name panga boat). Approaching the island, I’m expecting to see exotic wildlife, and I’m not disappointed. Sea lions, iguanas, fiery-red crabs, sea turtles, albatrosses – they’re all here in abundance. But what I’m not prepared for is the strange landscape they inhabit:

A cross between an Arizona desert, a Dali painting, and the surface of Mars – stunning . . . spectacular . . . otherworldly. Seeing the Galapagos in person vs. in books is like seeing Bruce Springsteen in concert vs. reading the liner notes on his album.

Day 2: “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”

I suspected it yesterday but now I’m convinced: there’s some sort of inter-galactic transformation that happens in the panga ride from La Pinta to the island. Because once again, we’ve landed on another planet. This one is called Santa Fe Island. It looks nothing like South Plaza Island – or anything else on earth. More like something created by Dr. Seuss.

We’re greeted by a welcoming committee of sea lions and Santa Fe iguanas. Like my wife’s Italian aunts, these iguanas never leave their neighbor-

hood throughout their life.

After the hike, it’s time for snorkeling. We’re swimming alongside so many fish and sea turtles that it makes breathing difficult. Not because our snorkels don’t work, but because we’re stopping to laugh out loud at the shear spectacle of the show.

Shrieks of, “Did you see that?!” echo across the bay. Day 3: Swimming with Sea Lions

The La Pinta guides are impressive in their knowledge of and respect for the Galapagos ecosystem. They’re happy to share as much information as we can absorb. The crew, likewise, is first-rate. They take care of everything from our wetsuits to our favorite cocktails.

Today our guide Dries takes us for a rigorous morning hike on the eastern tip of San Cristobal Island. We’re negotiating boulders and climbing cliffs. The effort is worth it. San Cristobal evokes Utah, Nevada and Colorado crossed with Catalina Island. Around each corner is a more spectacular view.

After the hike we paddle kayaks for a bit, then go for a swim. What starts off as a cooling dip turns into frolicking fun with sea lions. Curious

and puppy-like, they seem as fascinated with us as we are with them. Their favorite trick is to swim right up to your face and peel away at the last second.

As my wife is snorkeling, two sea lions swim alongside and a third one jumps clear over her as if performing at Sea World. I put on my mask for an underwater view. The jumping one comes at me so fast that I leap up, startled. He glides over and sticks his head above the water. Wait – is he laughing at me? Then he playfully nibbles my leg as if to say, “Hey, don’t worry – I’m just having fun.” I’ve swum with dolphins before, but nothing matches this experience.

In the afternoon we’re back in the panga for a coastal expedition of Cerro Brujo. Then some r&r on Cerro Brujo’s gorgeous white coral beach. I hear one woman – a very experienced world traveler – say this is the prettiest beach she’s ever seen. Difficult to disagree.

As La Pinta sets sail for Isla Espanola, it’s happy hour on deck. Look off the stern. There’s an orca whale breaching. Look west and there’s a jaw-dropping sunset over Sleeping Lion Rock. The sunset has 3 acts: Wow!... Glory

be!!... and, Are you kidding me!!! as the colors intensify and burst across the sky like fireworks.

Day 4: The Blue-Footed Booby Dance

Today we explore Punta Suarez on Espanola, the southernmost of the Galapagos Islands. Its flat, lava/boulder terrain is home to many bird colonies and iguana – including the Christmas Iguana, named for its green and red coloring. So far we’ve seen mockingbirds, frigatebirds, albatrosses, red-billed Tropicbirds, three kinds of boobies (red-footed, blue-footed and Nazca), the Galapagos hawk, doves, gulls, and the legendary finches of Darwin fame. A blue-footed booby calling all the single boobies with a leftfoot-in, left-foot-out hokey pokey mating dance gives us a chuckle. Albatrosses doing beak-fencing is also a hoot.

Fatima, our guide, leads us to a cliff on the southern side of the island. “Wait for it!” she says. We watch in anticipation as a large wave rolls in. A loud whoosh, then a geyser of water blasts through a lava blowhole, spraying water 70 feet into the air.

More great snorkeling in the afternoon, and another chance to swim with happygo-lucky sea lions. Schools of fish are everywhere, including yellow-tailed surgeon fish, king angelfish, sergeant majors, parrotfish, and sea turtles.

Day 5: Giant Tortoise

The last day is giant tortoise day. Weighing up to 550 lbs., their huge size led 16th century Spanish explorers to apply their Spanish name to the whole archipelago. We visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, the captive rearing grogram for giant tortoises, and see these impressive creatures up close. Young tortoises are protected here until they have grown large enough to be safely released into the wild.

When septuagenarians get together, they talk about their aches and pains. I wonder what tortoise groups talk about when they reach 90 and 100 years old.

Maybe their great-greatgreat grandchildren. Or how fast time goes by.

[Resources] Quito hotel: www.casagangotena.com/

Galapagos cruise: www. metropolitan-touring.com

Morristown resident Paul Partridge has been building a travel bucket list for years. Now he’s diving in – near and far – and shares his adventures in this column.

Saddleback tortoises looking for food. Photo by Paul Partridge.

New

AREA - Paranormal

spikes in October according to Maryann Taylor of Hackettstown. Taylor, a paranormal investigator for four years, is administrator of the Facebook Group, Midlife Spirits and a member of the New Jersey Ghost Hunters Society (NJGHS). That society, a non-profit paranormal investigation organization which meets in Hackettstown, was founded in 1998 by L’Aura Hladik Hoffman. Recently, Taylor, Hoffman and another NJGHS member, Linda Wielkotz, of Fair Lawn, shared some of their paranormal experiences.

Taylor got involved in paranormal investigation about four years ago. A group on Facebook called Lady GhostBusters was looking for people who had had paranormal experiences. Taylor replied about living in a haunted house. (Her family lives in her husband’s childhood home and has had experiences showing that his parent’s spirits are there.) From that connection, Taylor got involved in her first paranormal investigation.

In 2019, She went to Sterling Mines in Sussex County. In the temperature-controlled environment, suddenly there was a mist that would come up to the camera. When the mist was gone, it would return, if beckoned. The members of the group would feel a chill. The chill would move around the circle of members as though it was someone moving around them.

Taylor describes herself as “old school”. While other investigators use a variety of technology, she uses a camera and audio playback. She

Ghost Hunters Share Some Paranormal Adventures

recalled an investigation of a boy scout camp. During it, she and another investigator got separated from their group when they went back to get a camera that had been left behind. After getting it, as they walked to rejoin the group, they heard growling behind them. Thinking a bear was close behind, they ran and got to the building where the rest of the group was. They told the others of being chased by a bear, but when the others looked outside, there was no bear. Someone mentioned that they were in an area where you don’t really see any bears. Later, they listened to the audio playback of the incident. The growl had some distinguishable words in it: “Don’t let them get away. I want that one.” Taylor hopes she wasn’t the one they wanted.

Unlike Taylor, Wielkotz has been interested in the paranormal since her teens, Wielkotz noted that her mother would feed that interest by buying her books by parapsychologist Hans Holzer. After her mother died in 1984, Wielkotz had experiences of her mom visiting her. That prompted Wielkotz to find an organization focused on the paranormal: she found NJGHS.

Wielkotz noted that one of her most memorable experiences was with the NJGHS during one of two investigations done at Rose Hill Cemetery in Matawan in July 2006. Wielkotz could not make the first investigation but was very intrigued when an email about the second asked for “serious ghost hunters.” When she arrived at the location, it was explained to those present that during the first investigation,

stones were thrown at investigators by unseen forces. The cemetery had been checked to see if anyone was there before Wielkotz and the others came. However, those assembled were told they could leave if they were too frightened. Wielkotz stayed. She shared her account of what happened that night;

“As the group walked up to the old crypt area where the attacks took place, we were there maybe two minutes when the same thing happened. Stones were being thrown from trees. Many people had experiences with Elementals (spirit ghosts) running around them feeling their energy. When we left to go back to the gate, we stopped at the crypts and a piece of metal was thrown from a bush and a rock was thrown from the top of the crypt hitting an investigator in the side of the head. Again, unseen forces.

As we walked down the path, stones were still being thrown at investigators, hitting backpacks until we reached the main path. The spirits in that area did not want us up there for some reason.”

As for Hoffman, according to the NJGHS website, she “has been officially ghost hunting since 1993 and founded the NJ Ghost Hunters Society in 1998, which to date is the largest paranormal investigating organization in New Jersey.”

Recently, Hoffman recalled an incident around 2006/2007 when she led a team, which included their “tech guru”, Brian Sandt, in investigating the happenings at a private family house, down the shore in Spring Lake. The residents of the home had experienced such terror that they could not

sleep or live in the house and had moved into a local hotel. That investigation got off to a rather funny start.

“While we were investigating, in the dark of course, suddenly, bright lights were flashed upon Brian and I and a male voice shouted, ‘Hands in the air!’ Brian was holding his thermal scanner and to the police it appeared as a firearm, given the low light and shadows. Brian exclaimed, ‘Don’t shoot! Please! It’s a thermal scanner! Not a gun!’” said Hoffman. Hoffman noted that’s not usually the kind of response police expect to hear. The police turned on the room lights and checked their IDs. Hoffman and her team explained they were there checking out reported paranormal activity. Suspicious, the police contacted the homeowner who came to the home and verified who they were and their story.

After the homeowner and police left, Hoffman and her team started the investigation. They discovered a strong poltergeist energy in the house.

Hoffman explained what happened next:

“We experienced golf balls being thrown at us while coming down the stairs from the second floor. We tracked unusually high EMF within the center of the living room [though there were] absolutely no electric outlets, ceiling lamps, or power source available to supply such readings! And the ‘wow factor’ of this investigation: we were gathered around the center island counter in the kitchen. I had my digital audio recorder in the middle of the counter recording our discussion. It was positioned parallel to me on the counter. Suddenly, it made a 1/4 turn and was now perpendicular to me on the counter. We all saw it move by an unseen hand! Concurrent to this movement, Brian’s EMF Meter chimed out a spike in the EMF reading. We could ‘feel’ the energy pass right through us and then we heard a loud knock come from the living room. We went to inspect and found another golf

ball still slightly rolling on the floor at the foot of the stairs. Apparently, the ghost was having fun showing off its ability to move the audio recorder and hurled another golf ball.”

Besides being the founder and director of NJGHS, Hoffman is also an author and does presentations on the paranormal. On October 17 at 6:00 PM, she’ll be presenting “Ghosthunting NJ & NYC: Updated!!” at Emmaus Public Library, 11 East Main St., Emmaus, PA. On October 27th at 7pm, she’ll be at the Old Bridge Public Library, Central Branch, One Old Bridge Plaza, Old Bridge, NJ, presenting “Ghosthunting NJ & NYC: Updated!!”. On October 29th at noon, she will be presenting “Mysteries of the Paranormal” at the Plumstead Branch of Ocean County Library, 119 Evergreen Rd., New Egypt, NJ.

For more information on the NJGHS, visit its website www.njghs.net/njghshome. html

L’Aura Hladik Hoffman, founder of the New Jersey Ghost Hunters Society and the cameraman from a German TV crew that went on an investigation with her and a team in Carlstadt.

Patriots’ Path Council of the Boy Scouts of America Strive to Serve

AREA - The Patriot’s Path Council of the Boy Scouts of America, a not-for-profit organization, strives to serve more youths and provide worthwhile programs.

“The Boy Scouts of America was formed in 1910 and has been serving our local communities and youth for more than 112 years,” says Marc Andreo, Scout Executive and CEO of the Patriots’ Path Council.

“The Patriots’ Path Council was formed in 1999 to improve Scouting programs and services in north and central New Jersey through the merger of Scout Councils. While the pandemic was very difficult, our Scouts and volunteer leaders not only adapted but excelled at staying active through online meetings as well as outdoor meetings and campouts, before being able to get back to our traditional venues this year. This fall we have set a goal of recruiting more than 2,000 new youth and their families which will keep us on pace to achieve our pre-pandemic participation levels.”

The Patriots’ Path Council serves the counties of Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Sussex and Union. “Our four Scouting Districts work to keep Scouting local by providing volunteer and unit support as well as unique programming activities throughout our service area,” says Andreo.

Jeremy Godwin currently serves as Marketing and Communications Committee Chairperson on the Council Executive Board. “For Scouts in Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Sussex and Union counties, the Patriot’s Path Council is the local connection to Scouting,” says Godwin. “We operate one of the best and safest programs that develop young men and women into the leaders of tomorrow.”

Godwin also alludes to the immense numbers of scouts and scout leaders who are involved and benefit from the program.

“We’re very proud of the numbers and how many people of all ages choose to help themselves and their communities through Scouting. The values of good character, citizenship, personal fitness and leadership will influence these Scouts for life. These translate to things like helping people whenever it’s needed and always being prepared.”

Johannes (last name omitted by request) is a Star Scout and a Troop Guide for Troop 39 in Morris Plains. “Scouting has had a huge impact on my life,” says Johannes. “As part of my troop, I’ve spent a night on a battleship, gone canoeing, sailing, kayaking, zip lining, and spent more than two weeks outside hiking and camping -- even during the pandemic. Scouting teaches those real-life skills that you don’t learn at school. First Aid and Lifesaving, for example, are required Merit Badges to be earned to become an Eagle Scout.” Johannes then echoes Godwin’s last statement. “I think about all the people I have met in my Scouting journey, all the effort I put in to get to where I am now, and what I learned along the way.

I learned from Scouting that ‘Good Character’ isn’t just doing what you’re told, it’s thinking about what you’re doing and doing what needs to be done to your best ability.

I learned from Scouting that ‘citizenship’ isn’t just being kind to everyone, but doing the right thing, and even more!”

“The people involved in Scouting, both youth and adults, are the kind of people you want your kids around,” affirms Stacey Riggert, Scoutmaster for Troop 1936 in Mor-

ristown. “The leaders care. They want to be there. They believe in the aims (or values) of the program, they want to have fun but, more importantly, they are rewarded by the ability to mentor our youth.

The Scouts are good kids; some need more guidance than others, but they are really good kids. The Scouting program does not just provide an activity, it instills and reinforces values and teaches Scouts not only how to contribute to their family, their unit and the community, but it also teaches life skills.”

Per Andreo, in addition to The Patriot’s Path Council traditional programs, expanding will be the supplemental program opportunities for Scouts and their families. “This is designed to support our 4,000 Scouting leaders who step up to serve our boys and girls and to also ensure that we keep our program fresh and relevant for today’s youth. We continue to invest resources into our two Scout Camps with new program areas and continued maintenance and upkeep of our existing facilities.

Mount Allamuchy Scout Reservation in Stanhope and Winnebago Scout Reservation in Rockaway provide a year-round oasis of camping and program opportunities for our Scouts. Additionally, we provide a service center in Cedar Knolls where we operate a Scout Shop, host meeting and trainings as well as the operation of our administrative offices.

For 2023, we are also launching a Scouting Ambassador program to spread the word about the great programs and community service provided by our Scouts, their families, our volunteer leaders, and our chartered partners.”

For more information about Patriots’ Path Council of the

Boy Scouts of America, visit www.ppcbsa.org. Scouting programs are available from kindergarten through

Denville Scouts who benefit from the work of the Patriots’ Path Council

high school. For parents with a son or daughter interested in scouting, contact Shawn Trimmer at shawn.trimmer@

or

extension

ENTERTAINMENT

BY DANA JACKSON

Q: I really enjoyed the musical TV series “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.” What is the cast doing now that the show is over? -F.C.

A: Rachel Bloom, who wrote, produced and starred in the CW network’s musical comedy “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” from 2015 to 2019, has several upcoming roles. She’s joining the second season of HBO Max’s “Julia,” which is based on chef Julia Child’s origin story on public television in Boston. Bloom can currently be seen in the new comedy “Reboot” on Hulu. She’s also written a memoir, “I Want to Be Where the Normal People Are,” in which she gets candid about her awkwardness

of growing up in Manhattan Beach, California, and her battle with mental illness.

Donna Lynne Champlin, who played Bloom’s bestie on “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” most recently co-starred in Showtime’s “The First Lady,” as Michelle Obama’s (Viola Davis) senior advisor. Vincent Rodriguez III, who played Bloom’s main crush, Josh, on the show, most recently starred in Prime Video’s romantic comedy series “With Love.” Santino Fontana, who played Greg, has had a recurring role on “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” which is also on Prime Video. He’s also had a stellar career on Broadway, including the starring role in “Tootsie.”

***

Q: Is it true that Pat Sajak is leaving “Wheel of Fortune”? Will it continue with a new host? What about Vanna? -G.B.

A: After 40 years of spinning the wheel on the hit primetime game show “Wheel of Fortune,” Sajak recently hinted on “Entertainment Tonight” that “the end is near,” but he gave no specific end date. The show’s new executive producer Bellamie Blackstone sees the program, one day, celebrating its 50-year anniversary and beyond. Whether or not Sajak and longtime co-host Vanna White retire before then remains to be seen.

***

BY DEMI TAVERAS

“Blonde” (NC-17) -- In this new biopic based on the novel of the same name, audiences get to see a different side of Hollywood legend Marilyn Monroe. Ana de Armas

F R I N G E

F E S T I V A L

My Witch

The Margaret Hamilton Stories by John Ahlin Oct. 20-30

A Fat Knight Theatre production

If there is one movie we all share it is The Wizard of Oz

As the “Wicked Witch”, Hamilton has left an indelible mark on all of us.

I might just have to see this again. The play is that good.

— J. Peter Bergman, Berkshire Edge

(“Knives Out”) portrays the woman first known as Norma Jeane, as she evolves into the iconic actress we’ve come to recognize. Bobby Cannavale (“Boardwalk Empire”) stars

Q: I saw that one of my all-time favorite shows, “M*A*S*H,” recently celebrated 50 years since it premiered on TV by posting a current photo of stars Alan Alda and Mike Farrell together. Are they the only surviving cast members from the series? -- N.R.

A: Believe it or not, four classic television shows all debuted on CBS during the same week in September 1972: “Maude,” “The Waltons,” “The Bob Newhart Show” and “M*A*S*H.” Set during the Korean War, it starred Alan Alda as the wisecracking surgeon Hawkeye Pierce and Wayne Rogers as Trapper John McIntyre. Rogers’ character

Couch Theater

as Joe DiMaggio, Monroe’s second husband, and Adrien Brody (“The Pianist”) stars as Arthur Miller, her third husband. While the talented de Armas has received praise for her

performance, the film itself has received criticism for its excessive nudity. But, with biopics like these, it’s far too tricky to please everyone. Check it out for yourself when “Blonde” premieres Sept. 28. (Netflix)

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s inderella

1-11

This Holiday Spectacular is a story of timeless enchantment. A magical fairy tale reborn with Rodgers & Hammerstein’s hallmark of originality, charm and elegance. The story of a young woman forced into a life of servitude by her cruel stepmother and self-centered stepsisters, she dreams of a better life. With the help of her fairy godmother, Cinderella is transformed into a princess and finds her prince.

“Hocus Pocus 2” (PG) -The sequel to the 1993 Halloween favorite “Hocus Pocus” premieres on Sept. 30, right on time for the Halloween season. The Sanderson sisters are back causing mayhem in Salem, as Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy and Sarah Jessica Parker all reprise their roles from the first

would be spun off into his own show a few years later, and Mike Farrell would then join the cast as B.J. Hunnicutt.

You might recall that “M*A*S*H” was originally an Oscar-nominated film starring Donald Sutherland and Elliott Gould as Hawkeye and Trapper John, respectively. Sally Kellerman played “Hot Lips” Houlihan, and Robert Duvall was Frank Burns in the film -the same roles Loretta Swit and Larry Linville would memorably play on the series version.

Of the ensemble cast, Swit, Gary Burghoff (“Radar”) and Jamie Farr (Klinger) are all still with us. Rogers passed away in 2015, while Linville passed in 2000.

film. The sisters are conjured by high school students Becca and Izzy, who unite with others in the town in an attempt to stop the deranged trio of witches. The direct-to-streaming movie doesn’t fully excel at bringing back the magical feel of the first film, even with its musical numbers and returning characters, but Disney just can’t help themselves when it comes to remakes and sequels.

(Disney+)

“Ambulance” (R) -- Jake Gyllenhaal and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II star in this mov-

Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail. com, or write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

of

Living

ie directed by Michael Bay (the “Transformers” films and “Armageddon”). Gyllenhaal and Abdul-Mateen play two adoptive brothers, Danny and Will, who agree to execute a $32 million bank heist together. The heist doesn’t go exactly as planned, when LAPD officers swarm the bank to stop the brothers. Will and Danny make a narrow escape on an ambulance, unbeknownst to an EMT (Eiza Gonzalez) onboard treating a police officer. With four people now stuck in an ambulance on the run, it’s hard to tell who will make it out alive. Premiering Sept. 30, “Ambulance” is pure Michael Bay, with big-budget action scenes every step of the way. Premieres Sept. 30. (Prime Video)

“Reasonable Doubt” (NR) -- Defense attorney Jax Stewart (Emayatzy Corinealdi) loves to work with criminals; she welcomes the challenges that come with these clients. Jax tries to balance her career with being a mother and a wife but difficulties with her husband lead to a trial separation. While figuring out how to sail these murky waters, Jax deals with the recent rekindling of a friendship with Damon (Michael Ealy), a client she once defended, as well as a new, perplexing murder case on her hands. The style of this series is quite like “Scandal” and “Little Fires Everywhere,” which makes sense with Kerry Washington serving as executive producer. Premieres Sept. 27. (Hulu)

(c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

“Wheel of Fortune” Host Pat Sajak . Photo Credit: Depositphotos

JASON ALEXANDER - PERFORMIMG ARTS

Jay Scott Greenspan (born September 23, 1959), known professionally as Jason Alexander, is an American actor, comedian, film director, and television presenter. He is best known for his role as George Costanza in the television series Seinfeld (1989–1998), for which he was nominated for seven consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards. His other well-known roles include Phillip Stuckey in the film Pretty Woman (1990), comic relief gargoyle Hugo in the Disney animated feature The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), and the title character in the animated series Duckman (1994–1997). He has also made guest appearances on shows such as Dream On (1994), Curb Your Enthusiasm (2001, 2009), and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2019). For his role in Dream On, he was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series. He eventually won the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Song in 2020 for “The Bad Guys?” On Brainwashed By Toons.

Lauren Zoe Hernandez (born June 9, 2000) is an American artistic gymnast. During her debut year as a senior gymnast, she competed as a member of the U.S. women’s gymnastics team dubbed the “Final Five” at the 2016 Summer Olympics; Ultimately, the U.S. won gold in the team event. In the individual events, Hernandez earned the silver medal on the balance beam.[4] She returned to training in late 2018 and expressed interest in making a comeback to earn a spot on the U.S. women’s gymnastic team for the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, but she did not qualify for the Olympic Gymnastics Trials.

Outside of gymnastics, Hernandez has appeared on season 23 of Dancing with the Stars in 2016, where she won the competition along with partner Val Chmerkovskiy. Hernandez hosted the first season of American Ninja Warrior Junior as the on-course reporter and starred as Valeria in the Nickelodeon animated miniseries Middle School Moguls. She is the author of two books, I Got This: To Gold and Beyond, a New York Times Bestseller and She’s Got This, a children’s book.

George Raymond Richard Martin (born George Raymond Martin; September 20, 1948), also known as GRRM, is an American novelist, screenwriter, television producer and short story writer. He is the author of the series of epic fantasy novels A Song of Ice and Fire, which were adapted into the Emmy Award-winning HBO series Game of Thrones (2011–2019).

In 2005, Lev Grossman of Time called Martin “the American Tolkien“, and in 2011, he was included on the annual Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world.

MARY ROEBLING - ENTERPRISE

Mary Gindhart Herbert Roebling (July 29, 1905 – October 25, 1994) was an American banker, businesswoman, and philanthropist. She was the first woman to serve as president of a major US bank. Mary Gindhart was born in West Collingswood, New Jersey on July 29, 1905. Mary’s parents were Isaac Dare Gindhart Jr. and Mary (Simon) Gindhart, and was the eldest of four children. Mary’s father Isaac was the president of the Keystone & Eastern Telephone Company, and mother was a singer and pianist. She attended public schools in Moorestown and Haddonfield. She married musician Arthur Herbert in her teens (15), in 1920, and had a daughter, Elizabeth, in 1921 . Arthur died in 1922. She then worked in Philadelphia at an investment house while taking night classes in business administration and merchandising at the University of Pennsylvania. Her second husband, was Hugh Graham. They married in 1923. She divorced Graham and married Siegfried Roebling in 1932 (a son of John A. Roebling II. Siegfried died in 1936 and left her Trenton Trust stock. She took his seat on a Trenton Trust Company board. She was elected president of the board on January 21, 1937, and became the first woman to serve as president of a major American commercial bank. She served as either president or chair of the board until 1972 when the bank merged with National State. She then chaired the combined banks until 1984.

Over the years Mary was requested to serve in various public service capacities including Citizen’s Advisory Committee on Armed Forces Installations, Atlantic Congress for NATO, White House Congress on Refugee Programs, International Chamber of Commerce’s 17th Congress, and Citizens Advisory Council to the Committee on the Status of Women. Through several administrations, Roebling served as a civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army. She was made president of the new Army War College Foundation in 1978. That year she also founded Women’s Bank N.A. in Denver, the nation’s first chartered bank established by women, and chaired its board until 1983. From 1958 to 1962, she was governor of the American Stock Exchange. She was their first woman governor.

In a 1965 speech, Mrs. Roebling said: “As a woman who for years has competed in the business world, I would be the first to agree that the American woman has almost unbelievable economic power, but American women, like women of all civilized nations, do not use the influence their economic power gives them.”

GEORGE R.R. MARTIN - ARTS & LETTERS

BART OATES - SPORTS

Bart Steven Oates (born December 16, 1958) is a former American football player in the National Football League (NFL) for the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers. He played center for the Giants from 1985 to 1993 and with the 49ers from 1994 to 1995. He was a member of the Giants teams that won Super Bowls XXI and XXV and the 49ers team that won Super Bowl XXIX

Millions of people across the globe will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. In fact, only certain skin cancers affect more women than breast cancer within the United States and Canada.

The World Cancer Research Fund International says breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women across the globe. Belgium, The Netherlands and Luxembourg had the highest number of breast cancer cases in 2020, while Barbados and Fiji had the greatest number of deaths attributed to the disease. Some of these high case numbers may be attributed to women with family histories of breast cancer — something that increases risk significantly.

BreastCancer.org indicates that women with close relatives who have had breast cancer, such as sisters, mothers or grandmothers, are at considerably higher risk of developing breast cancer themselves. Also, breast cancer may occur at a younger age in women with family histories of the disease.

Understanding breast cancer risk is vital for women’s health. The following breakdown, courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, can help women from all backgrounds understand their risk for breast cancer.

• Average risk: No first- or second-degree relatives with breast or ovarian cancer, or one second-degree female relative with breast cancer (in one breast only) diagnosed after age 50.

• Moderate risk: This is a somewhat higher risk that may not turn into breast cancer. It occurs when there is one or two first-degree or two second-degree female relatives with breast cancer (in one breast only), with both relatives diagnosed after age 50; otherwise, one or two first- or second-degree relatives with high grade prostate cancer.

• Strong: Women with strong risks have much higher chances of developing breast cancer than the general population. Conditions like having one or more first- or second-degree relatives with breast cancer diagnosed at age 45 or younger, triple negative breast cancer, primary cancer of both breasts, and both breast and ovarian cancer in the same relative are warning signs of increased risk.

It’s important for women with increased risk for breast cancer due to family history to discuss options with their doctors. More frequent mam-

mograms and other screening tests may be recommended, and screening at younger ages than the standard age also may be considered. Women who are at high risk may be urged to undergo genetic counseling and testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer markers.

Breast cancer can be an especially scary prospect for women with family histories of the disease. By familiarizing themselves with their risks for breast cancer, women can take the necessary steps to protect their long-term health.

NJ Starz: Cat Bauer

BY STEVE SEARS STAFF

When writer Cat Bauer left the United States in 2006 for her new home in Venice, Italy, she didn’t look back.

And her life has been very rewarding. “I’ve lived in diverse places, from the suburbs of New Jersey, to the West Village of Manhattan, to the Hollywood Hills, to Venice, Italy,” Bauer says. “Each place has its own colors and feelings, lessons and experiences, loves and friendships. I’m grateful that I’m a writer, and all the doors that gift unlocks. Especially here in Venice, where it seems the entire world passes through -- I’ve met everyone from fishermen to heads of state. It’s like a pawn becoming a queen on a chessboard. Challenging but gratifying.”

And then there’s this. “In Venice, we don’t have cars at all,” Bauer says, when referring

back to her New Jersey days when congestion sometimes reigned on Hamburg Turnpike and Route 23 near her Pompton Lakes home. “We don’t have a traffic problem here.”

However distant she may be from her childhood stomping grounds, she will forever be entwined with her hometown courtesy her young adult novels set in a “Lenape Lakes,” a play on her community’s name.

Bauer, the oldest of five children, was born in Greenville, South Carolina, and then lived with her “beloved grandmother and grandfather – my father’s parents,” she says, in Kearny for four and a half years, prior to moving to Passaic County and Pompton Lakes, where she lived until she was 18.

The interest in literature for Bauer started at a very young age. “I could read before I went

to kindergarten,” she says.

“That was my big thing, I was a great reader. I was one of the best readers in my class, and I loved books very, very much. They were like candy to me.”

She then started writing her own books – at age six. “It seemed like a fun thing to do.”

Bauer’s first “book” was called Children of Other Lands, which she also illustrated. The idea came courtesy of her grandmother, who had gifted her granddaughter with a deck of cards which bore the same name as her eventual creation.

“I think I sold it,” she says with a laugh of that first book. “That was the whole idea. I said to myself, ‘I need some money, so I better write a book.’ It’s sort of a funny thing because there were no writers in my family. My father was an engineer and my mother was a housewife. It

was just something that I could do. For me, it was so easy and so natural to do. It was something I was very confident about, and I got a lot of praise for it, and it was something I was very secure about doing.”

Bauer, 67, graduated Pompton Lakes High School in 1973, but she spent much of her time in New York City. “The thing about Pompton Lakes is it’s so close to New York City, but nobody ever went to New York City.” However, Bauer did, both during (yes, she played hooky) and after school hours. “I was a struggling actress,” Bauer says, “and because writing was so easy for me, it was not a challenge. To me, the challenge was to be an actress. That’s what I wanted to do, and I got into my mid 30’s, and I was doing a commercial, and I said, ‘No, this is not it. If you’re not a movie star, being an actor is a very difficult life.” She eventually married a television director, had additional insight into the realm, and realized it was against her nature.

She then switched to what she coins her “fallback career,” and headed to the library to get magazines that sold fiction, and submitted her first short story

to the now-defunct Sassy magazine. It sold immediately, and the pay was generous. “I then wrote my first book based on that short story, and that’s how I wrote Harley, Like a Person,” Bauer says. “I fictionalized a lot of Pompton Lakes and called it ‘Lenape Lakes.”

That first young adult novel, which featured teenage protagonist, Harley Columba, was well received by the reading public, and it was awarded much. Among the accolades were a “Booklist Top Ten Youth First Novel,” “American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults” and a “New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age.

Afterwards, while living in Italy at the time, Bauer returned to her former but familiar stomping grounds to research her another book. “When I went to Pompton Lakes - because I hadn’t been there in years - the things I had created in my second book (Harley’s Ninth) actually existed. All this stuff that was in head that I had never seen now existed. It’s a surreal experience.”

The plan for Bauer was to write for more “Harley” books, and she still may do that.

“There’s a lot of me in Harley – a lot,” Bauer says. “But because in the first book she’s 14, she can say things I can’t say that come out of the mouth of a 14-year-old girl. Its kind of cute, but out of the mouth of a 67-year-old woman, it’s kind of difficult. I do like the teenage girl voice, because teenage girls are very powerful. Their emotions are very powerful.”

When Bauer first visited Venice, she fell in love with it. She afterwards in 1998 told her agent that she needed to head back overseas to write a book for three months, and her agent agreed. When the three months were coming to a close, Bauer was in tears. “I felt very much at home in Venice,” she recalls.

“I was raised Catholic, and there are over 100 churches in Venice. You can go in and feel very comfortable. I love all of the pomp, I love all the ritual, I love all the imagery.”

Bauer now blogs about the land she loves (posts can be read at www.venetiancat.blogspot.com), and she is currently at work on another offering that she says is difficult to write.

“It’s real,” she says. “I don’t want to fictionalize it. I want

Cat Bauer (credit Roberto Silver)

RESTAURANT GUIDE

A Chilly Day Dish with a Kick

Picture in your mind a warm bowl cupped in your hands, defrosting your fingertips after you just walked inside from a chilly afternoon. The bowl is heavy, full of hearty vegetables and spicy peppers that in just a few short moments will overwhelm your palate.

You dive in with a spoon, savoring every flavorful bite as you dip down to the bottom of the bowl searching for more to slurp up with every spoonful. Onion, red bell pepper and even corn all blended into not only a vegetarian meal but a chili-lover’s paradise. It’s got the spices to make you say, “wow” but the smoothness that reminds you of something your mom once made when you

were young.

You throw your sweater to the side of the couch as your body temperature begins to rise. You start to feel your energy return as you spoon a second helping into your bowl for round two.

Not only does this recipe for Chipotle Veggie Chili hit you with a wide array of balanced flavors, but there is a surprise hint of citrus added toward the end – lime juice.

Just to add a little more texture and vibrance to this dish, it can be topped with your favorite garnishes like guacamole, sour cream, jalapeno slices and cilantro.

This Chipotle Veggie Chili is simple to make, needing just

one pot throughout the entire cooking process. It simmers for about 25 minutes while you unwind from a long day.

So next time you need a pick-me-up after a chilly day outside, give this one a try. The savory aromas and wholesome consistency make this chili a 10-out-of-10 and a crowd favorite.

Find more recipes perfect for cooler weather at Culinary.

net Chipotle Veggie Chili

Servings: 6-8

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, chopped 5/8 teaspoon sea salt, divided 1/4 teaspoon pepper, divided 2 garlic cloves, minced

A Bite-Sized, Bacon-Flavored Appetizer

Imagine a sparkling tray full of delicious hors d’oeuvres is placed within easy reaching distance. You extend your arm forward and pick just one single appetizer out of the array of colorful cuisine. It’s creamy and soft, yet crunchy and savory. It was nearly the perfect bite. Your mouth is watering and your eyes open wide. You look down at your hand. The remnants of a bite-sized mushroom is in pieces across your palm. A smile stretches across your face following the flow of the napkin.

This is what guests can feel as they enter your house with a delightful nosh like Blue Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms. This recipe uses fresh ingredients and is baked until melted together to create an appetizer no partygoer will forget.

It’s got chunks of blue cheese, fresh chives, crisp onions, earthy mushrooms and, of course, bacon. You can’t forget

the bacon.

This perfectly mixed snack is something nearly everyone can enjoy. From little ones loving the bacon bits on top to the hard-to-impress visitors, this dish screams bite-size perfection for all.

These mushrooms are easy to make and a light bite for anyone looking for a quick snack. It’s so easy to make for a big hungry crowd as it yields 24 servings. Need more snacks? Double it and get the party started with a delicious finger food that will melt in your mouth.

Make your party appetizers something to talk about. Just don’t talk with your mouth full!

Find more recipes for party hosts, families and scrumptious appetizers at Culinary.net

Blue Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms 24 large fresh portabello mushrooms 1 carton (8oz) spreadable chive and onion cream cheese

1 cup (4oz) crumbled blue cheese 4 green onions, chopped 2 garlic cloved, minced 3/4 cup bacon bits, divided Preheat oven to 375°F.

Remove stems from mushrooms and place mushrooms on greased (or parchment paper) baking pan.

Mix cream cheese, blue cheese, onions, garlic and 1/4 cup bacon bits in a small bowl.

Spoon cream cheese mixture into mushroom caps.

Bake for 18-22 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.

Note: Recipe adapted from Taste of Home

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 can (14 ounces) diced fire-roasted tomatoes

1 can (14 ounces) red beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (14 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup vegetable broth

1 can (7 ounces) chipotles in adobo sauce

2 cans (15 ounces each) sweet corn with liquid

2 limes, juiced guacamole (optional) sour cream (optional) jalapeno slices (optional) cilantro (optional)

In large dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Stir and cook 5 minutes until onion is translu-

cent. Add garlic and red pepper. Stir and cook 8 minutes until soft.

Add tomatoes, red beans, pinto beans, broth, chipotles in adobo sauce, corn, remaining salt and remaining pepper. Simmer 25 minutes, stirring

occasionally, until chili has thickened.

Squeeze lime juice into pot; stir. Serve with guacamole, sour cream, jalapeno slices and cilantro, if desired. (Culinary. net)

Celebrate the season and create long-lasting memories this year by serving tasteful main courses centered around tender cuts of beef.

With hand-cut choices like a Bone-in Frenched Prime Rib Roast, Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons, a Beef Brisket Flat and Premium Ground Beef from Omaha Steaks, you can create elegant holiday centerpieces such as Steak Au Poivre or a unique generational recipe, the Simon Family Brisket. Each cut of beef is hand-carved by expert butchers, flash-frozen to capture freshness and flavor at its peak and delivered directly to your door.

Find more inspiration to create a memorable holiday meal

Savor These Holiday Centerpieces

at OmahaSteaks.com

Steak Au Poivre

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 2

2 Omaha Steaks Butcher’s

Cut Filet Mignons (5-6 ounces each), thawed

2 teaspoons kosher salt 2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 tablespoons butter, divided 1/3 cup brandy or cognac 1 cup cream

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Season steak with salt and pepper. Press seasoning into meat to create even coating.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon butter

until just smoking. Add steak and sear 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Once cooked to desired doneness, transfer steak to cutting board and tent with foil to rest.

Reduce heat to medium and add brandy to skillet. Allow to cook down about 1 minute while stirring to scrape off any browned bits from bottom of pan. Once brandy reduces by half, add cream, Dijon mustard and remaining butter; continue cooking until mixture begins to reduce and thicken, 5-7 minutes.

Slice steaks against grain and top with sauce.

Simon Family Brisket

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 4 hours, plus 20

minutes resting time

Servings: 4 1 Omaha Steaks Beef Brisket Flat (2 pounds), thawed

1 package (1.1 ounces) dry onion soup mix

1 can (14 ounces) whole cranberries

1 cup chili sauce

1 cup ginger ale Preheat oven to 250 F. Place brisket in large ovenproof baking dish.

In bowl, mix onion soup mix, cranberries and chili sauce. Spoon over top of brisket. Pour ginger ale around edges of brisket.

Cover with foil and bake 4 hours.

Remove from oven and let rest 20 minutes. Remove brisket from baking dish and place on cutting board. Slice brisket against grain and place in serving dish. Top with sauce and serve. (Family Features)

A Plant-Forward Twist on Taco Night

Reimagining taco night can be as simple as a new protein swap.

Spice up your favorite taco dishes by making walnuts the star ingredient. Nutty and full of flavor, “walnut meat” turns taco recipes into plant-forward options. Try these Walnut-Stuffed Korean Street Tacos and Walnut “Chorizo” Tacos for a tasty and nutritious meal, loaded with all the goodness of California walnuts.

It’s easier than ever to do more with California Walnuts. Discover more recipes at walnuts.org.

Walnut “Chorizo” Tacos Total time: 40 minutes Servings: 2 Pickled Vegetables: 1/2 cup fresh lime juice 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar 3/4 teaspoon sea salt 8 radishes, thinly sliced 2 medium jalapeno peppers, thinly sliced 1 large clove garlic, t0-hinly sliced Walnut Chorizo Crumble: 1 1/2 cups black beans, rinsed and drained 2 cups California walnuts 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 tablespoon white vinegar 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder 1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt 1 teaspoon ground chipotle 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander Tacos: 16 whole wheat tortillas olive oil thinly sliced romaine lettuce fresh cilantro leaves lime wedges

To make pickled vegetables: In small bowl, stir lime juice, sugar and sea salt. Stir in radishes, jalapenos and garlic slices; let stand 30 minutes to pickle.

To make walnut “chorizo” crumble: In food processor, pulse beans and walnuts until coarsely chopped. Add 2 tablespoons oil, white vinegar, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, chipotle, cumin and coriander; pulse until mixture is finely chopped and resembles

ground meat, stirring several times and moving mixture from bottom of food processor bowl to top to evenly mix.

In large nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat remaining oil. Add “chorizo” mixture and cook 10 minutes, or until mixture is browned and resembles ground meat, stirring frequently.

To prepare tacos: Brush each tortilla lightly with oil. On skillet over medium-high heat, cook briefly to brown on both sides, keeping warm in foil until all tortillas are cooked.

Remove pickled vegetables from liquid and discard garlic slices. Fill each tortilla with equal amounts “chorizo” and pickled vegetables. Garnish with lettuce and cilantro; serve with lime wedges. (Family Features)

What to Know About Prophylactic Mastectomy

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in American women, and is the leading cause of cancer death in less developed countries, says the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. According to Susan G. Komen, more than 680,000 breast cancer deaths occurred worldwide in 2020.

Breast cancer affects the anatomy of the breasts and can often spread to the lymph nodes. While breast cancer can affect just about any woman (as well as men), certain women are at higher risk for developing breast cancer than others. Such women include those with a family history of breast cancer and/or the presence of genetic markers called BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, according to the Bedford Breast Institute. Those women have a lifetime risk of up to 87 percent for getting breast cancer and 53 percent for developing ovarian cancer. Other risk factors include the presence of dense breast tissue, exposure to radiation at an early age and having already had cancer in one breast.

What is prophylactic mastectomy?

In instances when breast cancer risk is particularly high, women may opt to undergo prophylactic mastectomy, also called preventative mastectomy. This is the surgical removal of one or both breasts with the intent to dramatically reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

Rate of risk reduction

The Mayo Clinic says prophylactic mastectomy reduces the risk of developing breast cancer by 90 to 95 percent among women with BRCA gene mutations. It is roughly the same risk reduction for women who already have had breast cancer or have a strong family history of the disease and then have a breast removed.

Studies indicate that preventative mastectomy of the unaffected breast (called contralateral prophylactic mastectomy) in cases when breast cancer occurred in the other breast, when no genetic mutations or hereditary risk factors are present, has little to no effect on overall

survival rate. This is a surgery only for those with very high risk.

Why isn’t risk reduced completely?

Not all breast tissue can be removed during a prophylactic mastectomy. That is because breast tissue can sometimes be found in the chest, armpit, skin, above the collarbone, or on the upper part of the abdominal wall, states the Mayo Clinic.

It is impossible to remove all breast tissue cells during surgery. Although risk reduction is significant after mastectomy, that risk cannot be eliminated entirely.

Risks associated with prophylactic mastectomy

There are some risks associated with prophylactic mastectomy, both during the procedure and afterwards.

BreastCancer.org says bleeding or infection, fluid collecting under the scar, delayed wound healing, scar tissue formation, loss of sensation in the chest, and complications while being put under anesthesia are all possible. Women are urged to carefully consider the pros

Potential Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in women across the globe. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, there more than 2.26 million new cases of breast cancer in women in 2020. Such figures are sobering, but it’s important to recognize that breast cancer survival rates have improved dramatically in recent decades, providing hope to the millions of women who may be diagnosed with the disease in the years to come.

Various factors have helped to improve breast cancer survival rates, and education about the disease is certainly among them. Women are their own greatest allies against breast cancer, and learning to spot its signs and symptoms is a great first step in the fight against this potentially deadly, yet treatable disease.

Knowing your body

The American Cancer Society urges women to take note of how their breasts normally look and feel. That knowledge is vital because it helps wom-

NJ Starz...

it based on a true story, but I don’t want to use people’s real names. I have to create a new way of formatting it. That’s the challenge. I’ve been writing it by pieces and putting it together.”

When asked if there is one thing that she hasn’t done that she’d like to, Bauer’s list has multiple entries. “One thing?” she asks. “I can think of a zillion things I’d like to do. Travel to India, Africa, Russia and China. Witness lions in the

en recognize when something does not look or feel good to the touch with their breasts.

Screening alone may not be sufficient, as the ACS notes that mammograms do not find every breast cancer.

Signs and symptoms

When women are well acquainted with how their breasts look and feel, they’re in better position to recognize any abnormalities, which may or may not be indicative of breast cancer. The ACS reports that the following are some potential warning signs of breast cancer.

• A new lump or mass: The ACS indicates that this is the most common symptom of breast cancer. A lump or mass that is cancerous is often painless, but hard and has irregular edges. However, lumps caused by breast cancer also can be soft, round and tender. Some even cause pain.

• Swelling: Some women experience swelling of all or part of a breast even if they don’t detect a lump.

• Dimpling: The skin on the breast may dimple. When this

occurs, the skin on the breast sometimes mimics the look of an orange peel.

• Pain: Pain on the breast or nipple could indicate breast cancer.

• Retraction: Some women with breast cancer experience retraction, which occurs when the nipple turns inward.

• Skin abnormalities: Breast cancer may cause the skin on the breast to redden, dry out, flake, or thicken.

• Swollen lymph nodes: Some women with breast cancer experience swelling of the lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone.

The presence of any of these symptoms merits a trip to the doctor. Women with these symptoms should not immediately assume they have breast cancer, as the ACS notes that various symptoms of breast cancer also are indicative of non-cancerous conditions that affect the breasts. Only a physician can diagnose breast cancer, which underscores the importance of reporting symptoms to a doctor immediately.

and cons before opting for the surgery.

Alternatives

Prophylactic mastectomy is only one option for women at high risk for developing breast cancer. Some alternatives include:

• Ultrasounds, physical ex-

ams, and mammograms every three to six months for the rest of the patient’s life.

• Medication that can reduce risk of developing breast cancer.

• MRIs in addition to mammograms.

• Surgery to remove the ova-

ries, which can decrease both the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. It may reduce breast cancer risk by up to 50 percent if performed before age 50.

Breast cancer risk is higher in some individuals, which may prompt discussions about prophylactic mastectomies.

wild and explore the pyramids of Egypt. I was also going to say “fly a plane” but then I remembered I did do that on August 20, 1966 when I was 11-years-old (I know this because I wrote it in my diary -- that is something I still have from childhood). My Uncle Bob, who is a pilot, flew me and my sisters down to North Carolina by private plane to visit our grandparents. I sat in the co-pilot seat. As my sisters wailed and sobbed in the back, my uncle let me take control of

the plane. It was thrilling. I remember the one thing I wanted to do back then was find Amelia Earhart.”

However, the writer at heart knows exactly what she’d really like to do, and what her loyal readers hope she will, too. “If I have to pick one thing to do today,” she says, “it would be to write something that endures through the ages.”

For more information about Cat Bauer and her work, visit www.catbauer.com.

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