Passaic Valley November 2021 by My Life Publications..Maljon LLC

No. 3 Vol. 11

November 2021

Tracing the History of Thanksgiving

By Henry M. Holden he annual celebration of Thanksgiving may be America’s most cherished holiday. It stands apart from Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Thanksgiving also bears a resemblance to the ancient Jewish harvest festival of Sukkot, held in the autumn to commemorate the sheltering of the Israelites in the wilderness. Although Thanksgiving has historical roots in religious and cultural traditions, it has in recent decades, been celebrated as a secular holiday as well. Thanksgiving began as a day of giving thanks and sacrifice for the blessing of the harvest and of the preceding year. Some evidence indicates that (wild) turkey may have been on the first Thanksgiving menu, but venison, Indian corn and fowl were on the menu, when the Pilgrims hosted the inaugural feast in 1621. Although the American concept of Thanksgiving developed in the colonies of New England, it originated in Europe. Both the religious Separatists and the Puritans who came over on the Mayflower brought with them a tradition of preordained holidays—days of fasting during difficult moments, and days of celebration to thank God for their abundance. Historians have noted that Native Americans had a rich tradition of commemorating the fall harvest with feasting long before Europeans arrived on their shores. A question that is looking for a solid answer is whether the feast at Plymouth was the first Thanksgiving. Some historians have recorded other ceremonies of thanks among European settlers in North America that precede the Pilgrims’ celebration. In 1565, for instance, the Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilé invited members of the local Timucua tribe to a dinner in St. Augustine, Florida, after holding a Mass to thank God for their safe arrival. On December 4, 1619, when 38 British settlers reached a site known as Berkeley Hundred on the banks of Virginia’s James River, they read a proclamation designating the date as “a day of thanksgiving to Almighty God.” Puritans felt that they had a direct covenant with God and under siege from Church and Crown, and certain groups mi-

grated to colonies in the New World in the 1620s and 1630s. This led to the foundation for the religious, intellectual, and social order of New England. Native Americans and many other persons take issue with how the Thanksgiving narrative is represented. Christopher Columbus, Juan Ponce de Leon, and Hernando de Soto are three of the many Europeans who plundered the Native American resources and kidnapped many into slavery. In their view, the narrative paints a cunningly disguised picture of relations between the Pilgrims and the Native American people, masking the bloody history of conflict between them resulted in the deaths of thousands. In 1827, the noted magazine editor and prolific writer, Sarah Josepha Hale, author of the nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” began a campaign to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday. For more than 30 years, she published frequent editorials and sent scores of letters to governors, senators, and presidents, earning her the nickname the “Mother of Thanksgiving.” In 1863, Abraham Lincoln, at the height of the Civil War, finally granted her request in a proclamation beseeching all Americans to ask God to “commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife and to heal the wounds of the nation.” Lincoln scheduled Thanksgiving for the last Thursday in November, and it was celebrated on that day every year until 1939, when Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the holiday back a week to spur retail sales during the Great Depression. Roosevelt’s plan, known sarcastically as Franksgiving, was met with intense opposition. In 1941, the president grudgingly signed a bill making Thanksgiving the fourth Thursday in November. In many American households, the Thanksgiving celebration centers on cooking and sharing a bountiful meal with family and friends and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Parades around the country have also become an integral

part of the holiday. New York City’s Macy’s department store has presented Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade since 1924. It is the largest parade attracting some 2 to 3 million persons along its 2.5-mile route. Since 1953 it has been viewed by a large nation-wide television audience. The Parade features giant character balloons, floats, marching bands, clowns, performance groups, and TV and movie actors. The parade has been cancelled only three times, 1942-1944, because of a rubber and helium shortage during WWII. Beginning in the early 20th century, the President of the United States has “pardoned” one or two Thanksgiving turkeys each year, sparing the birds and sending them to a farm for retirement. Several governors also perform the annual turkey pardoning ritual. In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic in NYC, the parade was downsized and closed to the public. It was filmed as a broadcast-only event in the Herald Square area with 88 percent few participants. Volunteering is a common Thanksgiving Day activity, and communities often hold food drives and host free dinners for the less fortunate. Today, nearly 90 percent of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving, according to the National Turkey Federation. Other traditional foods include stuffing, mashed potatoes, yams, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.

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Page 6 • November 2021

Passaic Valley Welcomes New School-Based Clinician, Ms. Rose Moise

973-256-3899 125 Paterson Avenue Little Falls www.hpcnj.com

By Abigail Kosch ‘24 t the start of this school year, Passaic Valley welcomed Ms. Rose Moise, the new School-Based Clinician, to its staff. Ms. Moise works out of the West Bergen Mental Healthcare group and serves as a resource for students to receive mental and socialemotional support. A School-Based Clinician position was created to support students due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Ms. Moise provides our students with social-emotional and mental health support, which enables them to successfully navigate the current times we find ourselves in,” said Mr. Bracken Healy, Superintendent of Passaic Valley. “The past 18 months have been incredibly hard for many of our students. Ms. Moise’s services are invaluable as she helps alleviate stress, anxiety and many other ranges of emotion so that our students can flourish both socially and academically.” In addition to the health measures to combat COVID-19, Healy and Vice Principal Ms. Krista Voorhis decided to take measures to ensure students’ mental health is being prioritzed as well. “It’s really important that we recognize that our students’ mental health deserves to be monitored and supported as well,” says Ms. Voorhis. “[Ms. Moise] is a perfect fit to assist us in that.” To differentiate Ms. Moise’s position from the other mental health clinicians working with students at Passaic Valley, a schoolbased clinician helps specifically with school-oriented mental health. “The goal for the school-based clinician is to make sure the student is well-grounded enough

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to be in classes,” said Ms. Moise. “It can’t be psycho-dynamic. It’s very short term, to make sure that the student is well-grounded to have a better school year.” Ms. Moise has worked professionally with students for the past two years and began her work with West Bergen Mental Healthcare group in July. She has previous experience working in schools as a clinician. Additionally, Ms. Moise has her teaching degree in preschool to third grade. Her degree also enables her to work with students who have disabilities. I wanted to make sure I give my students a voice and make sure their needs are met. So that’s why I picked counseling versus teaching,” said Ms. Moise. Ms. Moise’s office is a safe space where students can go to receive help if they feel they are struggling with their mental health, and it is affecting their success in school. “As a counselor you have to stick to confidentiality. Everything you say in here stays with me,” said Ms. Moise. “I use myself as a safe box.” Ms. Moise is working to make her office more of a comfier one, adding more comfortable seating, pillows and other more

home-like things to reflect this idea. For Mr. Healy and Ms. Voorhis, Ms. Moise and her role at Passaic Valley are essential to the students’ development. “We wanted to make sure our students had a variety of support services available to them,” said Healy. “The development of a successful, well-rounded person begins with good mental health. Ms. Moise is one of the many great resources we have here at Passaic Valley. I encourage our students to stop by her office and say hello!” Ms. Moise loves the students, staff and families of Passaic Valley and is glad to be part of such a welcoming environment. “It’s good that you have that family approach,” said Ms. Moise. “It’s like a family here with the staff and the students.” Ms. Moise also loves how tradition is a key factor at Passaic Valley and it shows through the students and staff. “You have so many teachers and so many staff members that have been here for so long, or were students here and now they’re staff,” said Ms. Moise. “You don’t see that in a lot of places anymore. I think that’s what I appreciate about PV.”

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Little Falls Lights it Purple for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

PSYCHIC SHOP READINGS BY SOPHIA Astrology readings Psychic readings Palm readings Crystal Ball readings Tarot Card readings Energy readings Aura readings

own Hall is lit purple for Domestic Violence Awareness Month during the week of Oct. 11. Mayor James Damiano and council members, in cooperation with the Little Falls Domestic Violence Prevention Committee, ask to

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please reach out to anyone who might need help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline number is 800-799-7233, but in an emergency always call 911. Photo courtesy of The Township of Little Falls.

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Page 8 • November 2021

Little Falls Honors Italian-American Heritage Month for October

Councilman Chris Vancheri is pictured with local residents of Italian descent in honor of ItalianAmerican Heritage Month.

By Tina Pappas he Township celebrated the raising of the Italian flag in honor of ItalianAmerican Heritage Month. The ceremony took place in front of the municipal building on Oct. 4. Celebrated in October to coincide with Columbus Day, the national holiday celebrates the achievements and contributions of Italian immigrants and their descendants living in the U.S. Passaic Valley UNICO and its president Steven Pelonero took part in the ceremony.

The non-profit organization is a chapter of UNICO National, the largest Italian-American service organization in the nation since 1922. In addition to contributing nationally, the organization also serves the tri-towns of Little Falls, Totowa and Woodland Park. Hosting the ceremony was Councilman Chris Vancheri, who thanked those in attendance. Council President Anthony Sgobba read the proclamation declaring October Italian-American Heritage Month in Little Falls. “Tonight, the Township of Little Falls

Pictured is Councilman Chris Vancheri and Passaic Valley UNICO President Steven Pelonero raising the Italian ﬂag in honor of Italian-American Heritage Month.

celebrated the raising of the Italian flag in honor of Italian-American Heritage Month,” Vancheri said. “Thank you to Passaic Valley UNICO NJ and their President Steven Pelonero for being a part of tonight’s ceremony.” Earlier, Mayor James Damiano proclaimed the month of October 2021 as Italian-

American Heritage and Culture Month in the Township. The Township also lit its municipal building green, white and red in honor of Italian-American Heritage Month. The municipal building showcased the colors for the entire week of Oct. 4. Photos courtesy of The Township of Little Falls.

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Little Falls Holds Annual 5K Run/Walk

Councilman Al Kahwaty, Councilwoman Tanya Seber, Mayor James Damiano, Councilwoman Christine Hablitz, Councilman Chris Vancheri and Council President Anthony Sgobba are pictured at the Little Falls 5K Run/Walk.

Pictured is Little Falls James Damiano greeting participants of the Run Little Falls 5K Run/Walk held on Oct. 3.

and down through Main Street. Councilwoman Tanya Seber commented on the race, saying it was big a success. “Run Little Falls 5K had a perfect weather day!” she said. “It’s so much fun being

By Tina Pappas he Little Falls Recreation Department held its annual Run Little Falls 5K Run/ Walk on Oct. 3. Participants came out under sunny skies at the newly refurbished

Sports and Recreation Complex, where the start of the race commenced and where it finished. The route took runners and walkers through the Township’s residential streets

able to bring these events to our town. Everyone really enjoyed it, and we look forward to next year’s 5K.” Photos courtesy of The Township of Little Falls

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Local Scouts ‘Meet with the Mayor,’ Learn All About Woodland Park

By Tina Pappas ocal “Webelos” Cub Scouts of Pack 31 took part in a “Meeting with the Mayor” and received lessons on the local government and the daily operations of running the borough on Sept. 20. Mayor Keith Kazmark gave a tour of the municipal building and a rundown of the departments that comprise the municipality. He gave a synopsis of the administration, finance, inspections/code enforcement and recreation departments, municipal boards, the board of education, including the police and fire departments. Kazmark also explained the process of creating or changing laws in the borough by passing ordinances that get voted upon and adopted by the six council members, adding that many ordinances require a public hearing for the first and second readings before being fully adopted by the council, such as those for passing the budget or zoning ordinances. He then showed portraits of the former mayors of the borough that hang in the main hallway of the municipal building in succession beginning with the borough’s very first mayor, Anthony Ferrary. He gave some history lessons pertaining to Garret Mountain during the Revolutionary War period, when then General George

Washington stationed his troops at Rifle Camp Road. “Washington was a smart man, and he wanted to see the British coming,” he said, referring to Garret Mountain’s elevation and views of the region. He also gave some history lessons during the time of the borough’s infancy when first seceding from Little Falls to form its own municipality in 1914. He discussed how many residents had felt they were not being represented properly by the local government’s leadership in Little Falls back then. “The people of Woodland Park, then known as West Park, got a petition and put it on the election ballot to vote to secede and leave Little Falls to become their own separate town, which at the time was named West Paterson,” Kazmark explained. He also pointed to the municipal clerk’s office, where permanent records of the town dating back to 1914 are stored inside, and showed dated photos of the borough that also hang throughout the hallway. Kazmark then invited the scouts and their parents to his office to answer any questions they had. Among the questions asked was what the biggest challenge facing the borough currently is and what could be done to help. He replied that flood

Pictured are Webelos Cub Scouts of Pack 31 taking part in a “Meeting with the Mayor” on Sept. 20. Woodland Park Mayor Keith Kazmark took the scouts and their parents on a tour of the municipal building, and gave lessons on the local government and the history of the borough. Photos courtesy of Tina Pappas

damage caused to homes and businesses in the area as a result of Hurricane Ida earlier this month was one of the recent challenges. He also said one of the things being done in the past few weeks to help was a collection cleaning products in order to assist residents and business owners with flood recovery. “In the future, if there’s ever an opportunity when we’re collecting clothes, cleaning supplies or bottled water, it’s always helpful for people to donate,” he

added. He also encouraged a clean-up day for the scouts as a way to help make a positive impact on their community, by cleaning up litter, especially along McBride Avenue. “One of the things we really try to pride ourselves on here in town is having a clean community,” Kazmark noted. “We always encourage our property owners and business owners to clean up because that’s important.”

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tudents in Mrs. Morozowski’s preschool class at Charles Olbon School in Woodland Park recently enjoyed a nature walk. Leaves, acorns, and sticks were collected as a piece of the “discovery” curriculum.

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William Paterson University Receives Nearly $5 Million Grant from U.S. Department of Education for Hispanic Serving Institutions to Increase STEM Majors

illiam Paterson University has received a $4.99 million U.S. Department of Education Grant for Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) to enhance science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. The grant, to be awarded over five years, will target Hispanic and low-income first-time, firstyear students and transfer students from Passaic County Community College (PCCC). “These funds will offer much-needed support for our community of students to pursue STEM programs,” says Joshua Powers, PhD, William Paterson University provost and senior vice president for academic affairs and a member of the grant’s project team. “This grant will greatly enhance opportunities and support pathways for students to learn and thrive in STEM majors and increase the number of STEM graduates entering the workforce.” The project, titled Access to STEM Pathways through Integrated Research and Engagement (ASPIRE), will aim to increase the total number of overall William Paterson University STEM majors; particularly, the number of low-income and Hispanic STEM students transferring from PCCC to William Paterson University in a

STEM discipline. The project will also aim to increase the number of Hispanic juniors and seniors who participate in work-based learning such as internships and research fellowships as well as increase the fouryear graduation rates of the participating students. The grant will also support the roles of specialized personnel who will provide individualized support to these students and who will connect them to resources at William Paterson University and PCCC, all while facilitating a transfer plan. Once a student enrolls at William Paterson University, the student will receive individualized coaching and access to resources such as tutoring, supplemental instruction, career services, mental health counseling and financial aid. In addition to Powers, other members of the grant project team include Guillermo de Veyga, vice president for strategic initiatives and university relations; Venkat Sharma, dean, College of Science and Health; Melkamu Zeleke, interim associate dean, College of Science and Health; Sandra Hill, associate provost for academic affairs; and Patrick Noonan, director of transfer programs and special sessions.

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Palazzone Pastry Lab Has Grand Opening in Little Falls

By Tina Pappas nother sweet spot has opened in the Township. “Palazzone Pastry Lab,” located at 490 Main Street, is now the second pastry shop location for the Palazzone family, in addition to its Wayne location. Giancarlo Palazzone, owner, first opened “Palazzone 1960” in Wayne in 2012. His family’s business stems back to when his parents, Remo and Giulia, opened their first pastry shop in Clifton in 1960 after emigrating from Italy. The shop became very successful, but after many years they decided to sell it in order to return to Italy. The family then opened several successful pastry shops throughout Italy. After running their shops for many years, they decided to once again return to the U.S., where many of their relatives lived. “I was an infant when my parents decided to come back to the states in 1975, bringing along my siblings and I,” he said. “We continued to travel back and forth between the U.S. and Italy over the course of the next few decades.” Giancarlo said he learned the business at an early age while working in his parents’ pastry shops in Italy. “I was taught so much by my parents growing up,” he recalled. After attending college in Italy, he got married and started his own family. He then returned again to the states, this time with his wife and two young children. “I wanted to open my own pastry business and bring my expertise to the field. So I opened my first shop in Wayne in 2012,” he explained. He moved with his wife and children to Woodland Park

Pictured is the Palazzone family, along with Mayor Damiano and council members, during the ribbon cutting for Palazzone Pastry Lab on Sept. 30.

where many of his relatives lived. The family eventually settled in North Caldwell, which was when he opened his first store Palazzone 1960, located at 190 Route 23 North

in Wayne. It offers authentic Italian food and pastries, including many specialty items. Panettone, confection and continued on page 17

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continued from page 16 holiday chocolate treats are also a favorite among his customers. Espresso, Cappuccino and regular coffee is also served. As his business grew, he began impressing many customers, including Mayor James Damiano who reached out to Giancarlo to see if he would open a second location in Little Falls. “Five years ago, I went to Palazzone in Wayne and asked Giancarlo when he was moving to Little Falls,” Damiano said. “Well the day has come, and I wish Giancarlo nothing but luck and success here in Little Falls.” A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of Palazzone Pastry Lab was held on Sept. 30 in Little Falls with Damiano, Council President Anthony Sgobba, Councilman Chris Vancheri, Councilwoman • Parking in Rear • Across from St. Catherine’s Church

Some of the pastries are shown inside Palazzone Pastry Lab in Little Falls.

The Palazzone family celebrate the opening of their new pastry shop, Palazzone Pastry Lab, located at 490 Main Street.

Tanya Seber, Councilman Al Kahwaty and Councilwoman Christine Hablitz. The shop offers the same authentic pastries and coffee as his Wayne shop, but with an even bigger retail space to house many more imported products from Italy. “It’s a beautiful store in Little Falls and at a very convenient location,”

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Giancarlo added. “We offer many of the same items that we have in the Wayne store, which contain our fresh, traditional Italian ingredients. We have a parking lot in the back, and we invite everyone to come by and have some of our delicious pastries.” Photos courtesy of The Township of Little Falls.

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ABA Environmental Program Partners with Greens Do Good

By Rae Allex n eager team of students from Mr. Sander›s Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Environmental class have been learning how to plant, seed, water and harvest produce. They have acquired skills for two growing techniques: the more traditional process where they use soil, garden beds and/or pots, and the less traditional setting, where they skip the soil and grow crops directly in nutrient-

rich water, known as hydroponic farming. Presently, these students are raising basil, parsley, spinach, radishes, cilantro, romaine lettuce, catnip, two kinds of flowers (Calendula and Rubenza Cosmos), micro greens and kale. In the future the students will sell their products to faculty and staff. This will consist of students taking orders, collecting money and distributing their products around the school. Environmental Science teachers Mr. Sanders and Mr. Goodman, Director of Special Education Mr. Paternoster and PV/Bergen Program Supervisor Ms. Dubil-Craig worked together to partner with Greens Do Good, an indoor hydroponic vertical farm in Hackensack, NJ. Greens Do Good focuses on providing adults with autism a sense of purpose, paid employment, and meaningful participation in the community. Our partnership enables Passaic Valley’s ABA students in Environmental Science the opportunity to become a part of the Greens Do Good Workforce Development Program. Students gain valuable vocational skills and lay

out the foundation for future independence. Greens Do Good grows, packages and sells directly from farm to restaurants, specialty markets, country clubs and caterers. Their greens can be found at the following local businesses: Bottagra Restaurant in Hawthorne, NJ, Edgewood Country Club, Alt Eats Cafe in Ho Ho Kus, NJ, and multiple Shoprite locations. “I have never worked with this population of students and I have found it to be extremely rewarding on both a personal and professional level,” said Mr. Sanders. “In the short amount of time this class has been running the students have shown incredible growth. They have gone from not knowing how to plant a seed, to planting and caring for hundreds of plants in the matter of a month.” The Hornet family is extremely grateful for the efforts of the members at Greens Do Good for their selfless dedication to our program and “growing for a greater good”!

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November 2021 • Page 19

WPPD New Oﬃcer

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Community Helpers

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Faith & Blue

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he Woodland Park Police Department and Living Water Church recently teamed up for the first ever Faith & Blue at Memorial School. An event aimed to strengthen

relationships between law enforcement and our youth, this is the first time that this event was held in New Jersey. Attendees enjoyed basketball and other activities,

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Page 22 • November 2021

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Little Falls Holds ‘Oktober Food Truck Festival’ PBA Fundraiser

Pictured is Mayor James Damiano giving his proclamation to the Marquez family during the Oktober Food Pictured is the Marquez family, along with Mayor James Damiano and council members, during Truck Festival PBA fundraiser event on Oct. 2. the Oktober Food Truck Festival PBA fundraiser event on Oct. 2.

By Tina Pappas he Little Falls PBA 346 held its 2021 Oktober Food Truck Festival on Oct. 2. The event took place at 65 Union Avenue and brought out local residents enjoying food trucks, vendors, kids entertainment, and a beer garden, as well as live music by Shipwreck and DJ Josh

Christy during a sunny, fall day. The Township, along with Little Falls PBA 346 and the Little Falls Fire Department (LFFD), also honored Liam Marquez, an 18-month-old boy battling cancer. A proclamation was read by Mayor James Damiano declaring the day “Liam Marquez Day” in Little Falls. Little Falls PBA

346 and LFFD also purchased “Liam’s Warriors” T-shirts and gave Liam gifts. Portions of the proceeds from the event were also donated to the NJ State PBA Survivor & Welfare Fund. Photos courtesy of The Township of Little Falls.

Page 24 • November 2021

Little Falls Recreation Presents Winter Sports

By Tina Pappas he Township of Little Falls presents the Winter Sports program. Little Falls Recreation will run kindergarten to second grade Basketball Clinics, provided by Blaze Group Crew for Little Falls residents only. To be held on Wednesday evenings in January through February. Registration deadline is Dec. 15, 2021 and registration fee is $96.00. Third to eighth grade Boys and Girls Recreation Basketball will run through under the Passaic Valley Youth Recreation Basketball League. It will be an eight game season plus playoffs. Weekly practices start in December and games will run from January to March. There will be limited travel to Totowa, Woodland Park and North Haledon. Registration deadline is Nov. 10, 2021 and registration fee is $105.00. There is a need for coaches. If you

would like to be a volunteer coach, please email lfbbcommish@gmail.com. Kindergarten to eighth grade Co-ed Indoor Soccer will be held at the Little Falls Sports and Recreation Complex Gymnasium for Little Falls Residents only. It will run every Sunday from January through March. Registration deadline is Dec. 3, 2021 and registration fee is $35.00. There is a need for coaches. If you would like to be a volunteer coach, please email cvancheri@icloud.com. 35 & older Men’s Basketball League will be held at the Little Falls Sports and Recreation Complex Gymnasium. It will run on Thursday evenings from January through March. Team registration: TBD. Indoor Pickleball for Little Falls Pickleball and Racquet Club Badge Holders only. It will run on Mondays and Thursdays from December through March from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Memorial School House Sorting

November 2021 • Page 25

Photos courtesy of the Woodland Park School District.

emorial Middle School students in Woodland Park recently participated in the first ever House Sorting Ceremony. All students at Memorial School are sorted into four houses: earth, wind, fire, and water. Each house represents a character trait is instilled in the students and staff each and every day: earth - trustworthy, wind - respect, fire - re-

sponsibility, and water - caring. The goal of the House System is aimed to build a positive culture and provide everyone with a place to belong. The House assignment process is random in order to ensure that each student is provided with opportunities to work and socialize with others outside of typical social circles. This promotes a sense of belonging and connection

at school. The sixth graders, as well as students new to the school, were individually called to the front table and instructed to blindly select a colored gem, each color representative of one of the four houses. After all students were sorted, the students took part in their first challenges: which team cheered the loudest and tug of war.

Page 26 • November 2021

Eva’s Village: From Soup Kitchen to Anti-Poverty Powerhouse

By Ashley McCann hat started out as a simple soup kitchen in the basement of St. John’s Cathedral in 1982 is now one of the most efficient anti-poverty nonprofit organizations in New Jersey. Eva’s Village, located on a three-block campus in Paterson, helps thousands of people every year with its community of recovery and support services. Whether someone simply needs a meal, is seeking shelter, or is taking their first steps to recover from addiction, Eva’s Village has a service that could help. Their services include offering food, shelter, treatment help for substance use and co-occurring disorders, childcare to mothers in their recovery program, culinary job training to the community, sidewalk outreach for harm reduction, and supporting housing to those in Paterson, Essex, Hudson and Morris counties who need their help. Their Community Kitchen, which started out serving hot dogs and beans out of a church basement to 30 individuals, now serves 400 meals a day from their expanded kitchen to community members experiencing homelessness and housing inequality. “We don’t turn anyone away,” said Donna Fico, Vice President of Supportive Services. “Extra food is distributed to community members on Fridays to help them get through the weekend. Couple that with our clients in our halfway houses and shelters, and we serve between 900 and 1,000 meals a day.” Their sit-down breakfast and lunch service has transitioned to meals to-go to protect the health and safety of guests and staff during COVID. Breakfast can be picked up at their entrance at 370 Grand Street, Monday through Thursday at 9 a.m. and lunch at noon and 1 p.m. Eva’s Village Recovery Community Center at 16 Spring Street has helped more than 10,000 people looking for recovery treatment and support since they opened their doors in 2009. The center, run by volunteers, is a safe-haven for people during their ongoing recovery journeys. It offers help with admission to treatment and shelters, connections to peer recovery support, as well as referrals to detox or social services. Fico says their programs help restore physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual health, as well as give each person

a network of support to help them move towards an independent and purposefilled life. Not only do they feed the hungry and offer support for recovery and treatment, they also operate residential, Halfway House programs for men and women struggling with substance use disorders. Their Men’s Halfway House currently fits 120 men, while their Women’s Halfway House has capacity for 36 women. Separately, they also have a “Mommy and Me” Halfway House for mothers with children. The Childcare and Education programs that are offered allow these mothers to focus on their own recovery while still being able to keep their family intact. In addition to being a place to live until individuals can get back on their feet, the homes also have three-phase programs that are staffed by certified alcohol and drug counselors and help their transition from addiction to a life of dignity and independence. To further assist their transition into life outside these homes, individuals also receive resume and interview training through the Workforce Development program, which gives them the knowledge and tools necessary to successfully find a job. “Last year, Eva’s Workforce Development Program helped 82 clients prepare for job re-entry,” Fico said. The services that Eva’s Village offer are especially crucial at this time, and the community’s donations have helped ensure that their residents receive the support they desperately need to survive. They are thankful for any donation, and say that it will make an impact no matter the size. Their Community Kitchen is also accepting dry/boxed goods and commercially packaged frozen items, as well as gift cards. “Our founder, Msgr. Vincent Puma, believed that ‘When you take someone’s hand, you cannot drop it until they can stand on their own two feet.’ That is what we do here at Eva’s,” Fico said. “We are here to help anyone who needs it. We help people to stand on their own, but it starts with hope.” If you or someone you love is struggling with a substance use disorder, reach out to Eva’s Village for help at 973-523-6220. For more information and ways to help, please visit www.evasvillage.org.

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elebrate the season and create longlasting 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 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)

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November 2021 • Page 29

A Traditional Breakfast with a Twist

he same bowl of cereal can get boring after eating it for breakfast day in and day out. You may find yourself looking for something new and exciting to start your whole family’s morning off on the right foot. Kids can be picky when it comes to breakfast foods, but this recipe for Sausage Fresh Toast Roll-Ups is a quick and easy way to fill their bellies with a taste of several flavors they may already love. It’s a perfect way to fill your morning with joy, no matter if the hours ahead are filled with work, school or play. A sizzling sausage link wrapped with French toast, it combines a favorite breakfast protein and traditional deliciousness in one little roll. Drizzled with warm maple syrup at the end, even adults can’t help but indulge in these breakfast bites. This is a quick dish too, using few kitchen utensils, which makes for more time in the morning to enjoy the little things that matter most like moments with family before rushing out the door. This recipe can

also be made when your family is craving breakfast for dinner. Find more breakfast recipes at Culinary. net. If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work. Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups Servings: 12 12 sausage links 2 eggs 2/3 cup milk 3 teaspoons almond extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 6 bread slices, crust removed, cut in half 3 tablespoons butter syrup In skillet, cook sausage links according to package directions. Set aside. In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, almond extract and cinnamon. Dip bread slice in egg mixture. Wrap bread slice around cooked sausage link, pressing seam to keep from unrolling. Repeat with remaining bread slices and

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Page 30 • November 2021

A Bite-Sized, Bacon-Flavored Appetizer

magine 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-toimpress 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

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November 2021 • Page 31

Properties of Matter

fter learning about the properties of matter in science, Ms. Healey and Ms. Calabrese’s second grade class at Charles Olbon School in Woodland Park conducted an investigation. Students

analyzed different solid forms of matter found in nature such as rocks, acorns, leaves, sticks, and tree bark and recorded their observations.

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Page 32 • November 2021

Local Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Sentinel Fondly Recalls His Service

By Steve Sears evin Donovan is soon to be 60-yearsold, but he often thinks back to his younger days, when he proudly served as a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier sentinel at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Donovan, born and raised in New Jersey, enlisted in the United States Army in 1978 as an early entry, but went in in 1980. “I enlisted as a junior in high school. I went to basic training in Fort Benning, Georgia, then I went to The Old Guard, which is Fort Myers, Virginia, which is stationed adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery. I spent a couple of months in the presidential marching platoon, but I wanted more, so I volunteered for the Tomb in October of 1981.” “I consider myself honored. I consider myself very humbled to be able to do this job,” he says of his important role at the Tomb. However, he feels his role is rightly overshadowed by those who in honor are buried at Arlington National Cemetery. “There are people far more important, beginning of which the Unknown Soldier is right next to me, and as well as those 686 other acres of sacrifice. My job to go out in the hot and the cold was easy by comparison.

I understand what people think of us. We want people to come see the guard, come see the guard change, and understand why we’re there, and the unknown story behind this. It’s the reason why everyone wears the same uniform, same hat, the same gloves, basically interchangeable, because we are not supposed to be the focal point.” Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are regimented by the number 21. “A sentinel takes 21 steps,” Donovan explains, “faces the city for 21 seconds, does weapons manual, stands for 21 seconds, takes 21 steps, turns and faces the city again, and over and over again, 21 being for the 21-gun salute, internationally recognized as the highest honor they could be paid. Our job is to give as many 21’s to the Unknowns as possible.” He recalls some of his earlier days at the Tomb. “For someone to come up and say the Rosary, or to whisper, ‘Thank you,’ or something for watching over their fallen, was the most amazing feeling in the world, and the most humbling. I’m going to be 60 and my voice still trembles thinking about it. There are emotions that were invoked at the Tomb that are still there 40 years later.” The feelings, Donovan says, never go away. “I hope not. I’m fortunate enough

Photos courtesy of Kevin Donovan.

to be in a position that I’m able to speak to schools, do different things, because now my job is to teach, and continue to honor the Unknowns. I’m fortunate enough to relive those days, frequently. I come from

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Local Tomb of the Unknown Soldier... continued from page 32 the world” for a very good reason. “If ever you need your character checked, just go to the cemetery and look around. Just walk around, look at headstones, watch a funeral, and understand what has allowed us this life’s opportunities. When you see the 686 acres of sacrifice, if you can’t say, ‘Thank you,’ you can’t understand that - whether you believe in a particular war, a particular skirmish, whatever it would be - it doesn’t make a difference. All the sacrifices were made for us.” During Donovan’s days as a sentinel, he had a good friend at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, also known as the White House. “Ronald Reagan,” he says. “President Reagan

used to call me ‘Kevin.’ I used to be at the White House often enough that President Reagan knew my first name, and he would ask, ‘How’s Jersey?’ ‘How are your folks?’ That kind of thing.” In addition to actually guarding the Tomb and honoring the Unknowns, Donovan most of all misses the camaraderie of his relief mates. “You’re down there, working hard with a finite group of people that you depend upon, and you’re still in the military. You love them like a brother. You would literally die for them, and you know full well they would die for you. That camaraderie is something that’s missed.” For more information about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, visit www.army.mil.

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Page 34 • November 2021

Grandpa’s Last Thanksgiving

By Richard Mabey Jr. y paternal grandfather, Watson Mabey, was a hard-working man who dearly loved his family. He married Bertha Storms, in the early 1900’s, when they both were all so very young. They would have nine children, one daughter and eight sons. Grandpa grew up in the home that his father, William Storms, built in 1890. As a boy coming of age, Grandpa worked with his father at the Mabey Icehouse that proudly stood along the Morris Canal, just east of Incline Plane Ten East. Later, when he was in his mid-twenties, Grandpa became the Chief Engineer of Incline Plane Ten East. None of us knew it at the time, that the Thanksgiving of 1967 would be Grandpa’s last Thanksgiving before leaving this earthly existence to enter the gates of the Heavenly Worlds. I was 14 years old and in my freshman year at Boonton High School at the time. Grandma and Grandpa would often stay with us for long periods of time. They would sleep in the spare room of the old Mabey Homestead. Thanksgiving Day was always celebrated at the old Mabey Homestead. The home would be filled with Grandma and Grandpa, Mom and Dad, my sister Patti, my aunts and uncles, and my many cousins. The old dining room table would be moved to the eastern wall of the dining room, to make room for three more folding tables. The tables would fill the dining room, the front door foyer and out unto the formal living room. I remember it like it was yesterday, Grandpa got up early that Thanksgiving Day. I instinctively also awoke early that Thanksgiving Day. I came down the stairs of the old Mabey

Homestead. And, there was Grandpa in his favorite chair, in the corner of the living room. He had an old tin box on his lap. Grandpa and I exchanged “good mornings” to each other and then I sat down next to Grandpa. There was a rather solemn look on Grandpa’s face. A sadness seemed to have settled in his eyes. Grandpa, in his gentle voice, told me that he had been going through the letters that his brother Earl had written him while Earl was in the army, during World War I. And then Grandpa reverently looked at one envelope in particular for a few moments. Then he said to me, “Richie, this is the last letter your Great Uncle Earl ever wrote me.” Grandpa read the letter to me. I sensed that he was holding back tears. In the brother-to-brother letter, Great Uncle Earl wrote to Grandpa that he was looking forward to coming back to Beavertown. To marry his beloved Mary Simpson. To build his home on the open field that lied next to his brother’s home, along Mabey Lane. “This here letter was written the day before your Great Uncle Earl was killed in a foxhole in France,” Grandpa solemnly said to me. I shall never forget that moment. Grandpa neatly folded the letter up. Gracefully and gently placed it in its envelope. Then Grandpa closed the lid on the tin box and just looked at the tin box for a moment. “It’s Thanksgiving, boy! We got all so much to be thankful for,” Grandpa said as he held the tin box in his hands, sitting there on his favorite chair. Soon the rest of the family awoke. Grandpa quietly walked up the stairs to

A rare photo of my grandfather, Watson Mabey, carving the turkey. Most likely this picture was taken on a Thanksgiving Day.

his bedroom, holding the old tin box. That Thanksgiving Day was filled with joy and splendor, as my aunts and uncles and cousins all arrived at the old Mabey Homestead, in small packs. I remember Grandpa carved the turkey as he quietly sang, “What A Friend We Have in Jesus.” It was to be Grandpa’s last Thanksgiving Day continued on page 35

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My grandparents, Watson and Bertha Mabey, this picture was taken either on a Thanksgiving or Christmas Day.

Grandpa’s Last Thanksgiving... continued from page 34 upon this earth. I often think of the proud patriarch. I loved my grandfather with all of my heart. He taught me, oh so very much about my family heritage and history. To this day, I draw upon the memory of his many stories

of the Mabey history and folklore in the stories that I write. I miss dear old Grandpa, so very much. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ hotmail.com. Please put on the subject line: My Life Publications.

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Page 36 • November 2021

I Remember Dad: Proud Be, Thy Service to Country

By Richard Mabey Jr. t the dawn of soon becoming 68, I reflect upon the thousand and one questions that I would now love to ask my late father. My dad and his seven brothers and one sister, would often talk about the Holy Bible that their mom had setting open upon a little table in their living room. The legend goes that my grandmother believed that the open Bible was a source of spiritual protection for her family. And, the legacy is that Grandma kept the big, family Bible open to the page of John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.” On the wall above the Bible were photographs of Grandma’s family. In the early Spring of 1943, the ship upon which my dad’s brother, Edward, was stationed on was sunk by a German warship, not far from the coast of England. Uncle Ed was missing in action for quite a while. I cannot imagine the horrific emotional and psychological pain that my grandparents endured, during that terribly uncertain time. In my time of growing up in the big family farmhouse along Mabey Lane, I remember that my father would often reflect upon the era when Uncle Ed was lost at sea, missing in action. Dad often talked about how his dear, sweet mother prayed and prayed every day that her son Edward would be found and

return home, safe and sound. A British ship did come upon the survivors of that sunken ship that Uncle Ed was stationed on. And, Uncle Ed was saved. The days when Uncle Ed was lost at sea, missing in action, had a most deep and profound effect upon my father’s heart, mind and soul. Somehow and someway, Dad convinced his mother and father to sign the paperwork that would allow him to join the United States Army Air Corps at the age of 17. Grandpa’s brother, Earl, was killed in action in France during the First World War. Grandma’s grandfather, William Storms, was killed fighting with the Union Army’s 15th New Jersey Regiment, during the Battle of the Wilderness. Her father was but a baby in a cradle when Great Grandpa Storms fell to a bullet wound. My grandparents the pains of war. And, they did not want another one of their sons to have to march off to war. My grandparents were very patriotic people, but they dreaded seeing another son leave the little hamlet of Lincoln Park, to go off to fight in war. But somehow and someway, Dad convinced his parents to sign the paperwork to allow him to join the United Sates Army Air Corps. After his basic training was completed, Dad was assigned to the Seventh Army Air Corps. He was sent to Hickam Air Field in Hawaii. There he drove a fuel tanker truck and fueled up the many, many fighter

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and bomber airplanes at Hickam. He later became an airplane mechanic and specialized in changing the spark plugs of the infamous P-51 Mustang Fighter Planes. During his stay at Hickam Air Field, Dad had the honor to become acquainted with the great Jerry Siegel, the man who, with his friend Joe Shuster, created Superman. It must have been a few hundred times that I would be reading a Superman comic book, as a young boy, and Dad would tell me that he knew the man who created Superman. I deeply regret not putting my comic book down and listening more intently to Dad’s stories of having known the legendary Jerry Siegel. But at the age of eight, you don’t always appreciate what is right before you. Dad belonged to the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars organizations for decades. Dad loved his country and was a most patriotic man. In his 28 years of serving as Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 170 of Lincoln Park, my father taught hundreds of boys how to properly care for the United States flag. Dad also taught many, many boys, the cherished history and development of our nation’s flag. It was one of the aspects of being a Scoutmaster that was near and dear to Dad’s heart. It’s a funny thing. When I turned 18, I tried to join the National Guard. They turned me down because I have a damaged Mitral Heart Valve. So, I never got to fully know

Dad in his Army Air Corps uniform.

what it was like to be in the service. I know that my father got very homesick while he was stationed in Hawaii. I remember Dad’s younger brothers would kid around with Dad that, in every single letter that he wrote home, Dad would remind his brothers to take good care of his train village that was set up in the upstairs hallway. If you have a relative or friend that is presently in the armed services, please do consider writing them a little note with a few words of appreciation for their selfless sacrifice. For they are the defenders of our precious freedom. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail. com. Please put on the subject line: My Life Publications.

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Page 38 • November 2021

5 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Winter

t’s that time of year: pumpkin spice is here and so are shorter days and cooler nights. Before nightfall comes too early, take advantage of the milder temps to prepare your home for winter. Here are a few easy, DIY tasks to check off your list. 1. Close Up the Patio. It’s important to protect patio items from winter wear and tear so you can enjoy them as soon as the weather breaks in the spring. When the weather in your area seems to be changing for good, clean outdoor furniture like tables, chairs and décor and protect them with a heavy-duty cover. If you don’t have interior storage, secure everything tightly so you don’t risk items tipping during a gusty winter storm. Clean the grill, remove and store the tank, and winterize outdoor hoses and faucets. Easyto-install faucet covers can help prevent water damage and freezing pipes. Also, don’t forget to plant your bulbs now so you’ll have flowers to welcome you when the warm weather hits. 2. Secure Loose Shingles and Fix Broken Gutters. Assess your roof and gutters to ensure your home is safe from water damage and leaks this winter. If you suspect or discover a problem, even a small one, don’t wait to fix it. It will be even more

difficult to repair after the roof has become snowy and icy. If it’s not within budget, try a DIY fix with supplies you likely already have in your toolbox. The Original Duck Tape Brand Duct Tape is a classic tool for temporary repairs and is great for holding, seaming and sealing coverings over problematic areas until you can later fix the issue at hand. 3. Prep A/C Units. Don’t overlook keeping your A/C unit clean. Most modern units are created to withstand extreme elements; however, keeping it free of buildup is key to maintaining it over time. When it’s not in use over winter, clean the surfaces on and around the unit to keep it free from buildup of dander, leaves, acorns and pine needles. Next, using an air conditioner cover, securely protect your A/C unit from snow and ice, so that it’s still in its best working condition when you uncover it in the spring. 4. Keep Cold Weather Out. Frigid temperatures draw attention to drafts coming into your home. While turning up the furnace helps, the constant escape of warm air leads to high heating costs. Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors wisely. Many seals tend to freeze and crack, never really fixing the

A little extra eﬀort this fall can make your home more enjoyable all winter long.

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