Passaic Valley October 2023

Little Falls National Night Out Spotlights Community Camaraderie

Vanesa Apaza, the Little Falls Municipal Alliance's new coordinator, said the organization helps with many different initiatives within the community, in addition to drug prevention.

"We work collaboratively with the police department, the Junior Police Academy's L.E.A.D. program, and we celebrate Red Ribbon Week each year in the school district," she said, adding that her position is entirely volunteer, which frees up money to be put forth towards initiatives.

Richard Lopez, representative of the New York Red Bulls freestyle crew, said his group loves giving soccer tips for events, camps, and other festivities. He said the Red Bulls

By Tina Pappas

The Little Falls Police Department (LFPD) and the Township held its annual National Night Out, where local residents came out to get to know those in their local public service departments on Aug. 1.

The free event is held early August each year and is based on a community-driven campaign, which aims to promote police and community partnerships.

Residents were treated to food and refreshments, entertainment and a demonstration conducted by the Little Falls Fire Department (LFFD), which was focused on showing the attendees in the crowd how to put out a car fire, including a makeshift passenger extraction. The event was held in the Little Falls Municipal Building parking lot.

Mayor James Damiano, Council President Anthony Sgobba, Councilman Chris Vancheri, Councilwoman Christine Hablitz, Councilman Michael Murphy, Councilwoman Jayna Patel, along with officers of the LFPD, also took part in the event.

Tents throughout the parking lot featured the New Jersey Department of Corrections, Little Falls Office of Emergency Management's CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), NJ Guardians (LEFC) Law Enforcement Football Club, The New York Red Bulls professional soccer club, Little Falls Municipal Alliance, Little Falls Boy Scouts Troop 14, Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey, and Little Falls Schools 2/3 PTA .

Entertainment included a live DJ and two bounce houses for the kids. Additionally, The New York Red Bulls gave a soccer demonstration and The Misfits of Magic performed a magical show. There was even a visit from an Imperial

are to soccer what the Harlem Globetrotters are to basketball.

"We're here to support National Night Out and we thank Little Falls for inviting us," he said. "We really appreciate it and we're happy to give a show for the kids."

LFPD Detective Oliver Isshak, President of the of the NJ Guardians (LEFC) Law Enforcement Football Club said his non-profit organization recently hosted its first free soccer camp for kids, with the goal of making soccer available for everybody.

''We're here today in support of National Night Out with our soccer clinic sign-up sheet and some free candy and water bottles for the kids," he said. "This organization is separate from Little Falls Police Department."

Isshak explained that five years ago he played for a law

enforcement soccer team called NJ Unified but that he would eventually, along with other fellow officers, create a different organization.

"We're all law enforcement officers from the State of New Jersey but we came together to create NJ Guardians because wanted to host free soccer clinics for kids."

Local resident Patti Lijoi said she loves coming out to the event each year and brings her daughter along also.

"I love how the whole neighborhood comes out, and everyone I talked to said they were coming out tonight," she said. "I think It's great that you can see what the firemen are doing, what the police are doing, and this year I feel they brought in so much more of the community as well. I really feel like this event brings everyone together, so it's a great thing!"

Corporal Jon Vanak, who organizes the annual event, echoed the sentiment saying the event is a great way to bring out community, so that local residents can be in touch with their local agencies.

"The community comes out and it's always fun, especially for kids when they get to sit inside the fire trucks," he said "And it's exciting when everyone sees the fire department doing the demonstrations."

Schumacher Chevrolet and 7-Eleven donated the food, he said. The Little Falls Recreation Department provided the bounce houses this year.

"For the first time this year, The Red Bulls were on-hand to demonstrate some soccer skills," he explained. "It's always a terrific community gathering each year."

He also added that the event this year had a great turnout.

"If I had to guess, it's been the most people we've had in the past few years since we've been doing this."

Photos Credit: The Township of Little Falls The Little Falls Police Department and the Township held its annual National Night Out on Aug. 1.

Pictured (from left) is Mayor James Damiano, Councilman Chris Vancheri, Councilwoman Christine Hablitz, Council President Anthony Sgobba, Councilwoman Jayne Patel and Councilman Michael Murphy during Little Falls National Night Out on Aug. 1.

The Little Falls Fire Department gave a demonstration on how to put out a car fire, including a makeshift passenger extraction during Little Falls National Night Out on Aug. 1.

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By Tina Pappas

Maria Power nev-

er expected to find herself at the point in her life she’s currently in. The Elizabeth resident, who worked as a chef, is suffering with End Stage Kidney Disease, which she developed over the recent pandemic,

“I developed it in January 2020 and it stems from having diabetes and high blood pressure as a teen,” she explained. “I am now in dire need of a kidney.”

Born in Brooklyn, Maria moved with her family moved to Jersey City as a youngster. Once she graduated high school at the Academy of St. Aloysius, she then received her associates degree in Culinary Arts at Hudson County Community College. She worked at Nobu, a Japanese Fusion restaurant for seven years in Manhattan, and

Elizabeth Resident in Need of Kidney

most recently at Facebook cooking for the company’s employees when her whole life changed on a dime.

When Maria turned 26, she was without health insurance when the plan under her parents ran out. At this point, she could no longer afford to pay for medication and the insulin she badly needed. Once she got married at 30, she was covered by her husband’s insurance plan and was able to pay for her medications again. However, as a chef, she continued to work long hours and was not able to make regular doctors visits as scheduled. Unfortunately, the lack of proper care caused her kidney situation to become dire and Maria needed to leave her job.

“The regular doctor visits were not ideal for a chef,” she said. “My legs were getting swollen and I didn’t realize what was happening.

When I went to my doctor and had some blood tests, I was then rushed to the ER that weekend because I found out I had End Stage Kidney failure”

End Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD), a condition in which the kidneys do not function normally, requires external support to meet the daily requirements of life. The most common cause of this condition is diabetes. The two options for individuals with ESKD are dialysis or a kidney transplant.

“After being diagnosed over the pandemic, they told me I needed dialysis as a regular treatment,’ Maria said, adding that the dialysis entails lining that abdomen of the stomach to filter out blood outside her body. “It’s like a soft tube catheter in my belly. I did that for two years and was on the machine for 14 hours at night every night.”

Then this past October, Maria had some complications where she was absorbing the solution and she required regular dialysis.

“From the very beginning, I felt I was still young and wanted to go back to work but the hours were just too long, so I couldn’t go back,” she added. “Right now, I receive dialysis three times a week for four hours in Fresenius Kidney Care Center in Kenilworth.”

So far, Maria hasn’t received any prospects for a potential donor. She has two younger sisters who are not a match due to the fact that they are prediabetic, which runs on her father’s side of the family. She is listed with the Saint Barnabas Medical Center’s kidney transplant recipient referral program and is seeking a kidney from a living donor. Please consider registering at St. Barnabas Hospital in

Livingston and indicate donor for Maria Power. Thank you. cbmclivingdonor.org,

“My parents who live in the Philippines are so worried about me and constantly check up on me,” she added. “Receiving a living donor kidney would be better for me because I’d like to go back to work and be able to visit my parents. There could be complications if it’s not a living donor. My hus-

band and I would also like to have children in the future.”

Maria’s blood type is O+ and she is hopeful that she will find a living donor.

“A living donor saves lives,” she further added.

“I feel with my age, I have a lot more to do, and see the world and have kids. I’m hoping someone will come along and be my guardian angel.”

Photo credit: Maria Power

Pictured is Maria Power who is in desperate need of a kidney. Also pictured is Maria with her husband and family.

WP School District Opens Early Childhood Center

for so many years.”

Work on the ECC building was funded by New Jersey State Department of Education grant funds. Dr. Pillari noted how expansive the project was - involving vendors, architects, engineers, town officials, the DPW, police department, and fire department.

Dr. Pillari thanked former Mayor Keith Kazmark for making the connection between the school district and Mr. and Mrs. Wood.

The Woodland Park School District cut the ribbon to the Early Childhood Center at 377 Lackawanna Ave. on Sept. 5. On the first day of school, the center welcomed four classes full of 3- and 4-year-old PreK students. The School District is currently leasing the property with the intention to purchase it within the next few years. Formerly known as Magic Years Preschool, the school was operated for over 40 years by owners Roger and Barbara Wood, who both retired last year.

“When we were approached with this opportunity, I thought to myself that it might be a little too good to be true, but what an amazing opportunity for the residents of this town,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michele Pillari. “Magic Years has been a core fixture in the community for many, many years, and to be able to be a part of keeping it alive upon the retirement of the Woods was unimaginable to me at the time. Yet here we are expanding educational opportunities for the children of this town on a property that has been a core part of this community

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“Roger and Barbara have left such an incredible legacy and mark on so many families in this area,” Kazmark said. ”For every family that walked through these hallways, we are indebted to the both of you and your staff over the years for everything that you have given our children.”

Kazmark noted that during his last Magic Years spring show there, Roger Wood called up the grandparents of one of the students because the grandparent had attended school here and was able to present the diploma to their grandchild at the last show.

“If that is not the epitome of legacy and someone or a group of people who have touched children’s lives over all of these decades, I don’t know what is,” he said.

The District also operates School 1 as a preschool facility with nine classes. Charles Olbon School also houses two preschool classes. The School District is able to provide this free preschool education to Borough children through $3 million in New Jersey State Dept. of Education grant funding. This program saves PreK-3 and PreK-4 families (over 200 students) between $10,000 to $12,000 per year in tuition costs.

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Little Falls Swears in New Class III Officer to the School District

By Tina Pappas

The Little Falls School District has a new Class III Officer to protect its three schools. Schools No. 1, which houses fifth through eighth grades, School No. 2, comprised of Pre-K through second grade, and School No. 3, which consists of third and fourth grades, will now have added protection thanks to the addition of the position.

Michael Rossi was sworn in by Mayor James Damiano prior to the Aug. 28 Township Council Meeting. According to Police Chief Bryan Prall, Rossi completed 25 years of law enforcement and retired from the Rockaway Borough Police Department. He was also a past member of the Rockaway Township Board of Education.

l spoke before the ceremony and called the creation of the position “a step in the right direction,” as with other positions that were instituted in the Little Falls Police Department in recent years, such as the reinstitution of Police Captain and the implementation of the special law enforcement officer program.

“Today’s another historic moment for Little Falls,” Prall said. “I’m happy to report that we’ll have our first time Class III law enforcement officer for our schools, and again - a step in the right direction.”

Prall added that the implementation of the position would not have been possible without the cooperation and shared vision of the Little Falls School District. He said the creation of the position was

“born out of an epiphany moment” with District Superintendent Tracey Marinelli, who was present at the meeting.

“Michael Rossi was employed at the school not as a police officer, but in an administrative capacity, so that got the ball rolling when I learned about his background,” he explained.

Prall further added that certain requirements are needed in order to be considered for a Class III Officer position, such as being a retired police officer and in good standing. The scope of the position also entails enforcement on school property during school hours and working on the school calendar. He will be a police officer from the police department in the schools. He will be armed and trained, and be up to par on all the latest skills, including first aid, tourniquet work, etc.

“We’re glad to bring this position to fruition here tonight and I’m super proud to be able to do this for

the Township,” he further added. “And I’m happy that Mike was willing to come on board with us.”

Prall also thanked Mayor Damiano, the Township Council and Marinelli for their help and support when it comes to school safety. Mayor Damiano also spoke during the evening prior to the ceremony saying that he always felt children were the future of the country.

“Now having kids of my own, there is no greater asset than your child and nothing more important than ensuring your child is safe,” he said. “Anything we can do to ensure that every kid is safe is something that I was always supportive of.”

He also added that implementation of the position was through a shared service collaboration.

“This is a very good and positive thing that we now have here in Little Falls for child safety,” Damiano added. “We look forward to having Michael on board.”

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls

The Township of Little Falls held a swearing-in ceremony for their new Class III Officer Michael Rossi to protect schools of the Little Falls School District.

Little Falls Holds Poignant 9/11 Ceremony Marking

By Tina Pappas

The Township of Little Falls held a poignant ceremony during the annual 9/11 memorial gathering at Memorial Park on Wilmore Road, marking the 22nd anniversary of the

terrorist attacks. The rainy weather did not stop those wishing to reflect and remember the lives that were lost, including those who continue to lose their lives from the aftereffects of working at Ground Zero.

The ceremony was held in front of the 9/11 monument, which displays two pieces of World Trade Center steel and an 8 by 6 foot waterfall, with the engraved words, “Never cont. on page 14

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls Pictured from left is LFPD Chief Bryan Prall, Councilman Chris Vancheri, Council President Anthony Sgobba, Councilwoman Jayna Patel, Councilwoman Christine Hablitz. LFFD Chief Ken Cichy and Mayor James Damiano

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Little Falls Holds Poignant...

cont. from page 12

Forget - September 11, 2001.” The five-foot long I-beams were erected by the Township in 2011. Those who spoke discussed how the country came together during that time and people helped one another.

Councilman Chris Vancheri held a moment of silence and welcomed attendees on behalf of Mayor James Damiano and The Township Council, the Little Falls Police Department (LFPD) and the Little Falls Fire Department (LFFD). The Little Falls Girl Scouts led The Pledge of Allegiance followed by local singer Maristella Crispo, who sang The Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America. John Morano and Bill Schoen performed Amazing Grace

and Danny Boy. Boy Scouts Troop 14 was also in attendance serving as The Color Guard. Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the attacks and we remember those who were lost, including two of our own - local resident Linda Rosenbaum and former Little

Falls volunteer firefighter and FDNY firefighter Robert Cordice,” he said, as he thanked the family of Cordice for attending the ceremony each year. “Many lives were changed 22 years ago when two hijacked planes went into

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Councilman Chris Vancheri speak to attendees during the annual 9/11 memorial ceremony in Little Falls, flanked by local Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts who took part in the ceremony.

The family of Robert Cordice, a former Little Falls volunteer firefighter who became an FDNY firefighter and perished on 9/11, visit his memorial.

Little Falls Holds Poignant...

cont. from page 14

the World Trade Center, a third hijacked plane went into the Pentagon and a fourth hijacked plane crashed on a field in Pennsylvania.”

Vancheri then spoke of the 2,977 lives who perished that day, which included the 2, 753 lives at the World Trade Center, 184 lives at the Pentagon, and the 40 people who died when Flight 93 crashed in Pennsylvania. 343 members of the fire department also died, including 23 police officers and 37 Port Authority officers.

Deacon Joe Sisco, Little Falls Fire Department Chaplain, conducted the invocation and the Firemen’s Prayer. Damiano then spoke, thanking those for coming out to the ceremony and those who made the evening possible, giving special acknowledgements to the LFPD, LFFD, Little Falls EMS, Department of Public Works and Councilman Chris Vancheri.

“It’s hard to believe that 22 years have passed since the tragic events of 9/11 and it’s hard to imagine that there are children and grown-ups who gather along with us today that have no personal recollection of those events, yet they gather here with us to remember,” he said. “It’s a day that forever changed the face of the nation. To all who still feel the ache and agony, I’m honored to be with you once more to share this solemn remembrance and to reflect on all that was lost in fire and ash on that terrible and tragic September morning.”

Damiano added, “It’s been 22 years and just as the stone reads on our memorial here in town. we kept our promise - ‘Never Forget.’ What will not change is the character of this nation and while we remember all who we

lost, I hope also we remember all those heroes who were made in the hours, days and years that followed - ordinary Americans responding in extraordinary ways.”

Damiano and Vancheri both highlighted the seedling recently planted in Memorial Park that the Township received from the “Survivor Tree,” a Callery pear tree, which survived the September 11, 2001 terror attacks on the World Trade Center. The initiative is from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, with the goal of giving communities an opportunity to bring this special seedling to their city or town.

“It awards communities with a connection to the September 11th attacks,” Vancheri said, adding that the tree was discovered at Ground Zero with its burned roots and broken branches. The tree was eventually cared for by the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation and was returned to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in 2010. “What we found was an opportunity for us to have the seedling. Little Falls is truly honored to receive this special tree and we’re grateful to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum for giving us this.”

Vancheri then called up Council President Anthony Sgobba, owner of Sgobba Monument Works of Totowa, who donated the stone that was placed adjacent to where the seedling was planted inside Memorial Park. Sgobba read the stone aloud to the those in attendance.

“Survivor Tree Seedling Awarded To The Township Of Little Falls By The 9/11 Memorial & Museum On July 17, 2023,” Sgobba stated.

Damiano, along with Sgobba, Councilwoman Christine

Hablitz and Councilwoman Jayna Patel, then placed a wreath in front of the 9/11 Memorial. The second wreath was then placed by Police Chief Bryan Prall and officers of the LFPD. LFFD Chief Ken Cichy then placed a third wreath, along with the Cordice family, at the FDNY Firefighter Robert Cordice Memorial.

Cichy also spoke by thanking those who came out in attendance and pointed to a rainbow that developed in the sky towards the end of the ceremony.

Pictured is the newly dedicated plaque that was placed next to the 9/11 “Survivor Tree” seedling that the Township received and planted at Memorial Park, donated by Sgobba Monument Works of Totowa.

Little Falls Girls Scouts’ Science Experiment Chosen for NASA Rocket Launch

By Tina Pappas

Reaching for the stars is an understatement for two girls from Girl Scouts Troop #97322. Madelyn Larionoff and Camilla Petracca, ages 11, took part in “Cubes in Space”, an iEDU program offered in collaboration with NASA. Their science project was recently selected for the program, which allows students to conduct their proposed experiments in space, as NASA provides the rides of their experiments into space.

According to Troop Leader Colleen Larionoff, who has a degree in neuroscience, the iEDU Cubes in Space program provides a way for children to engage in meaningful science that can impact the community.

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Photo credit: Colleen Larionoff

Pictured is Camilla Petracca (left) and Madelyn Larionoff with their poster at iEDU’s Rocketfest in Chincoteague, VA.

Little Falls Girls Scouts’...

cont. from page 16

The girls wrote their proposal and got selected for the competitive program.

The girls’ science project called, “The effect of ionosphere exposure and vibration on the physical integrity and molecular structure of Diphenhydramine HCI,” aims is to see if Diphenhydramine HCI, which is the generic of Benadryl, will have potential changes to its molecular structure, including its medication’s safety and effectiveness in a space environment through testing.

“They sent two forms forms of generic Benadryl in a small cube in a NASA sounding rocket and will analyze the samples to see if they were stable or degraded in a space environment compared to samples on Earth,” Colleen explained.

Colleen added that because the girls did not have the tools for molecular analysis at home, they needed to reach out to college labs. They found one that will run the samples with liquid chromatography, which the girls will then analyze. She also said that the science experiment project was in line with the Girl Scouts’ philosophy.

“Because the girls were so invested in their research question, they taught themselves science concepts, used critical thinking to design an experiment to test their hypothesis, persisted through the struggle of writing a lengthy proposal, and communicated their research to adult experts,” she further added. “This fit perfectly into the Girl Scout goal of being girl-led.”

Back in June, the girls presented their project to the iEDU’s Cubes in Space Rockfest, located in Chincoteague, VA.

However, the launch got postponed due to the weather. Madelyn and her family then drove back down to Chincoteague Island to see the rocket launch on Aug. 17.

“It was so exciting knowing our project was in it,” she said. “I was also surprised to find our poster on display at the NASA Wallops Visitor Center in Virginia! The most meaningful part was seeing everything come together.”

Colleen said it will take a while to get the results and their cube has not been mailed back yet.

“The girls have to do the physical testing, bring the samples to a college lab for the molecular testing, and then analyze the results,” she said.

Madelyn said she and Camilla got the idea for their science experiment when they saw an article about a study, which found that another medicine degrades in space. They were then curious as to what would happen with Benadryl.

“With future possibilities of commercial space travel it is important to know whether allergy medication is stable,” Madelyn explained.

Madelyn added that the advice she would give to others with an idea is to pursue it to the very end.

“Even kids can do anything they want if they just believe and persevere,” she said. “Think outside the box because there is no just one answer for a problem. Use the engineering process to rethink a problem and propose a solution analyzing your data,”

She also said never be afraid to speak in front of others because “you can find your strength right there.”

Girl Scouts Troop #97322 visited the William D. McDowell Observatory in Lyndhurst to learn about space science.

Little Falls Receives 9/11 ‘Survivor Tree’ Seedling Award

By Tina Pappas

The Township of Little Falls recently received a seedling tree from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. The organization provides communities that have an existing 9/11 memorial an opportunity to request a seedling for their site. The seedling is from the “Survivor Tree,” a Callery pear tree, which survived the September 11, 2001 terror attacks on the World Trade Center.

The initiative gives communities an opportunity to bring this special seedling to their city/town. It is a collaborative effort with Bartlett Tree Experts of Stamford, Conn., and John Bowne High School in Queens, N.Y.

According to Councilman Chris Vancheri, upon first hearing about the process of obtaining the seedling through the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, he recommended that the town apply to receive a seedling. He then submitted a request, which included sharing some background about Little Falls and the Township’s connection to 9/11, having lost two residents - FDNY Firefighter Robert Cordice and Linda Rosenbaum. Vancheri also included information about the town’s 9/11 tribute at Memorial Park, located at Wilmore Road.

“Last month, I received an email stating that Little Falls was selected as a community that would receive a seedling,” he explained. “This is a very special honor, which came at no cost to the Township. I’ve said this since I received the email on July 17, that we are truly honored to be awarded the seedling.”

The seedling was planted at Wilmore Road Park near the 9/11 memorial. Vancheri, along with Ron Stell of the

Little Falls Department of Public Works (DPW), went to Flushing, Queens to pick up the seedling. Upon their return to Little Falls, they were met by Little Falls DPW Superintendent Ron Campbell and members of his department as they then planted the seedling.

The Township will host their annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony at Memorial Park on Wilmore Road on Monday, Sept. 11 beginning at 6:30 p.m. The ceremony marks the 22nd anniversary of the attacks. During this year’s ceremony, the Township will officially dedicate the seedling tree.

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls Little Falls was the recipient of the 9/11 Memorial Museum's annual Survivor Tree seedling distribution. Pictured is Councilman Chris Vancheri and Ron Stell of the Little Falls DPW. Members of the DPW plant are pictured planting the seedling.

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NJ Starz: Todd Nichols Hometown: Denville

By Steve Sears

Todd Nichols recalled his earliest love for music.

He said, “It was in the seventh grade. I can actually remember that in the yearbook for Thomas Jefferson Middle School, they asked you for an ambition.” Nichols’ entry? To someday become a professional musician. “I was a drummer, played professionally for 25 years while I taught high school. My dream as a little kid was to be the drummer for the Count Basie Orchestra.”

He never attained that “dream,” but he accomplished something much more important. For himself, yes, but most importantly, for others.

“I’ve been very, very blessed to have some incredible students,” Nichols said. “And I would say some of the most memorable ones, the ones that truly resonated, were some of my students for whom maybe going to school was challenging for them. They would come back after they graduated and said that it was being in band, being in music, and being in these ensembles that helped get them through and make it to graduation. Those to me were always the ones

that really hit home.”

Nichals since 2019 has been the Rutgers University Director of Bands, and now oversees the entire program for concert ensembles, the marching band, and three prep bands. Nichols is also in year two of his Presidency of the Big Ten Band Directors Assocation. His term runs through 2024.

The 47-year-old Nichols, who was born in Denville and grew up in Rockaway, attended Morris Hills High School. He was raised by his mom, Sandy, who passed away a few years ago, and his dad, Tom, also a Morris Hills alum. He has one younger sister, Tracey.

Nichols, who graduated Morris Hills High School in 1994, credits his high school band director, Mchael Sopko, with giving him encouragement. “He was my high school band director, and he was very supportive and very encouraging. And not just to me. It is interesting that there are a lot of musicians who came out of Morris Hills High School who are doing just really incredible things. There are people who are out on Broadway, there are musical directors, there are college band directors, there are people teaching and play-

ing professionally. Such a small, tiny school in Rockaway had quite a few incredible artists come out and do different things. And he (Sopko) was super encouraging to me my whole time through.”

After high school, Nichols headed to what was then called Trenton State College (now called the College of New Jersey) where he received his BM in Music in 1998, and thereafter his MM in Conducting from Pennsylvania’s Messiah College. While he has been teaching at Rutgers Univer-

NJ Starz ... cont. from page 20 sity, he received in 2022 his DMA in Conducting from the Mason Gross School of the Arts.

Nichols’ first teaching roles were at Edison High School from 1998 to 2004, and Roxbury High School from 2004 to 2017.

Nichols said, “Both communities are still to this day very special to me for different reasons. The Edison band and the Edison community was a place that was very serious about what they did, wanting to progress, and grow and get better. It was a great place to start teaching, a great place to be able to build something - a program full of really special, hardworking and caring people. Roxbury was very much the same way. The time spent at Roxbury was about trying to create opportunities for the students that maybe had not existed prior. There were a lot of first-time national performances for those bands and experiences that I will certainly never forget. At Edison, it was me and just a couple of colleagues, and when I was at Roxbury, there were seven of us who were working towards that common goal. It was just another community that really believed in music, really believed in what we were doing.”

Through the years, the bands that Nichols has directed have performed for some very prestigious folks and at worthy locations. In 2008, the Roxbury band was the first band ever to perform at the prestigious Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic, and to date they are the only high school from New Jersey that has ever performed at the conference. The Roxbury High School Wind Symphony has been on stage at both Avery Fisher Hall and Carnegie Hall in New York City

and took part in 2014’s Super Bowl XLVIII halftime show. And Nichols, conductor of both the Eastern Wind Symphony and Garden State Symphonic Band, in 2016 was elected to the American Bandmasters Association/American School Band Directors Association, and was also invited to conduct the United States Army Field Band.

“That was pretty great,” he said of the latter experience. “That was while I was teaching at when they came into town, and Colonel (Tim) Holtan was kind enough to extend an invitation and ask if I wanted to do a piece with the group. That was very, very special.”

Nichols moved on in 2017 to Rutgers, and when he started there, he was the Director of Athletic Bands and the Associate Director of Bands while teaching at the school. His Marching Scarlet Knights have performed for former Vice-President (and current President), Joseph Biden, and during halftime on Monday Night Football.

And next up just might be the crème de la crème: an appearance in this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Nichols said, “It’s a very exciting time for us right now. In addition to the fact that this is the first time in our school’s history that the Rutgers Marching Band has ever been accepted to march in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, we have had some really great interest in the band program in that we are the largest we have ever been. We are going to be taking 350 students to this parade, and we are trying to make sure that the impression that is made and the experience that is created for our students is, ‘You’re going to get one shot at this for it to be a lifetime memory for those

involved.’ The students are super excited about it, and our staff is super excited about it. We are doing everything we can to really make sure that we represent our university the best we possibly can.”

As special as a music and teaching career is for Todd Nichols, it is superseded by his love for his family. He and his wife, Beth, will in May 2024 be married for 25 years, and they are proud parents of two daughters. Nichols said, “Sarah, who is a freshman now at Rutgers, is a Cognitive Science and Linguistics major. She wants to be a Speech and Language Pathologist, and our youngest daughter, Emily, is a sophomore at Immaculata high school. Anytime I am able to have time with my family is the most important thing. It gets tougher as we get older, and everybody is terribly busy. But to me, any time that I could have with my girls and my wife is the most important time I can have. It always makes me happy, no matter what.”

And there are those he has educated in the past, and the ones he teaches now. As far as his career and love of music goes, Nichols’ reward for his hard work is experiencing the reactions and happiness of his students.

“When they achieve a goal that they thought they maybe could not, makes me happy that they are happier than anything else.”

Define Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition where the median nerve, running from the forearm to the palm of the hand, becomes painful with numbness and tingling. This discomfort is

Relieving Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Discomfort

nel Syndrome discomfort is a specialty of the Physical Therapy Team at Elite Spine and Sports Care of Totowa.

Treatment Options Are Available

Elite Spine and Sports Care of Totowa offers expert Physical Therapy Services to Passaic County and nearby area patients to relieve the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The pain of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is very frustrating and uncomfortable for sufferers of the condition.

expert physical therapy instruction by Elite Spine staff. These exercises treat the pain in your hands and wrists and can be practiced as you work. When these exercises don’t prove therapeutic in relieving the pain, our therapists use Active Release Technique, or Deep Tissue Laser Therapy. These are drug-free and surgery-free treatment options.

Relieve The Pain of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

With Treatment

ous and strenuous use of the hands and wrists. Therapists at Elite Spine and Sports Care of Totowa have the expertise and experience to find the treatment that will work best for your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome discomfort. If you have pain in your hands and wrists from overuse, call and make an appointment for therapy.

mainly the result of being pressed or squeezed. The Carpal Tunnel is a path of ligament and bones at the base of the hand housing the nerves and tendons that bend fingers. This is an important area of one’s anatomy that is in constant use. Continual use of the

hand in the same way, such as typing or clicking on a computer or a phone, can cause pain and discomfort leading to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Tennis players also suffer with this condition from gripping a tennis racquet for long periods of time. Relieving Carpal Tun-

What Does Treatment Consist Of?

Initially, when you begin to have pain associated with constant use of the hands and wrists the best thing is to rest the area frequently. Learning the correct stretching techniques for treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the start of

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by the continu-

Dr. Sean Santagato, PT, DPT, GTS Dir. of Physical Therapy

Is fair skin more susceptible to skin cancer?

The skin is the largest organ on the body. As with other areas of the body, skin is susceptible to cancer.

The National Cancer Institute says there are many different types of skin cancer and that it can appear differently depending on the type and the person. Any changes in skin should be brought to the attention of a doctor immediately. The sooner treatment begins, the better the prognosis typically is.

Individuals also should be aware of what constitutes having a heightened risk for skin cancer. In most cases, that can include the type of skin one has. The Skin Cancer Foundation indicates that skin type is a major factor in risk for skin cancer, including the deadly melanoma. While people with any shade of skin can get skin cancer, those who

have fair skin tones are even more at risk for sunburn, sun damage and skin cancer.

In 1975, Harvard Medical School physician Thomas Fitzpatrick created a scientific classification system for skin type, identifying six types of skin. The Fitzpatrick Skin Type chart goes from very light to very dark. Skin types I and II face the highest risk of developing skin cancer, while types V and VI are at the lowest risk. That’s because fair skin doesn’t have as much pigmentation and natural melanin protection from the sun.

In addition to pigmentation, skin type also is calculated by how skin reacts to sun exposure. This means whether one easily burns or easily tans. Fair skin tends to burn easily and tan lightly or not at all.

Even though fair-skinned

individuals are at greater for skin cancer, anyone can get the disease. Everyone should use a broad-spectrum daily sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to protect against harmful rays. In addition, wearing sun-protective clothing and avoiding exposure between the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. is essential.

Individuals concerned about skin cancer risk or unusual changes to their skin should speak with their dermatologists.

Prep Your Kids for Back to School and Fall Sports

Courtesy Dr. Anant Joshi

During the dog days of summer, most children don’t want to hear about returning to school, but wise parents know that some preparation now will ensure a smooth transition in the fall. For the podiatric health of your child or teen, you can take a few steps to prevent injuries and improve comfort when back-to-school time arrives.

A Winning Strategy

If your children participate in fall sports, it’s important that they engage in regular physical activity during the summer months. While everyone wants to enjoy a break when school first gets out, it’s time to get off the couch and get moving to begin to prepare for fall sports. Students who spend a sedentary summer and move into high-intensity fall workouts have a much greater risk of foot and ankle injuries.

Below are some suggestions to motivate your young athlete:

Ditch the drudge

Make physical activity something to be enjoyed rather than dreaded. Swimming, biking, rock climbing, frisbee, and backyard softball are fun and aerobic options. Help your child find active recreation they like and encourage their participation with friends.

Make it a family affair

Fill family time with physical activities. Many states

have “passports” for visiting area parks. Decide together on a different hike each week. Set a goal and plan a reward if you hit a certain number of trails or miles.

Get a coach’s input

Contact the coach for the team or sport your child will be playing in the fall and ask for suggested workouts and exercises. Knowing that the effort they are putting in now will make them better competitors in their particular sport can be a strong motivator for your teen or child.

If the Shoe Fits

The other essential component of healthy feet for back-to-school is footwear that fits and is appropriate for

the sport or activity your child will be doing. Tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t use hand-me-down shoes.

Shoes tend to conform to the foot of the wearer. Using someone else’s shoes can lead to an injury, or, at the very least, they may be uncomfortable.

2. Get the correct size.

Kid’s feet grow fast! Get your shoes at the end of the summer, and make sure your child’s feet are professionally measured.

3. Don’t buy online.

Shoes must be tried on and walked in while in the store for several minutes to ensure a proper fit. Check for red spots and rubbing on the heel when your child removes them.

4. Shop later in the day.

That’s when feet are at their largest.

5. Bring the right socks.

Try on shoes with socks for a more accurate sense of fit and comfort.

To Healthy Feet, Anant Joshi DPM

New Book, KARMA LIKE THIS, by Local Author, Completes Paranormal Series

Local resident, Debbie Cocchio, bestselling author of the Psychic Circle Series, a YA paranormal romance series, recently announced the release of the final installment – Karma Like This (Book 3) by D.L. Cocchio.

To celebrate the completion of the series, Cocchio and a fellow author, Kristen Houghton who is an international bestselling author of the popular series Cate Harlow Private Investigation, shared their love of writing with local seniors at a special event called “Author! Author!” in Pequannock Township. It was held at the Senior House and hosted by DISC55 (Drop-in Senior Center) this summer.

According to Cocchio, “The Psychic Circle Series fills the void that the popular TV/Movie shows – The Secret Circle and Twilight left open when they went off the air. The series is about young adults with special paranormal abilities who band together to practice their talents. A psychic, a shaman, a telepath, a healer, and a witch use their talents to save a friend, and in the newest book, they work with crystal energies to attempt to change the course of karma.”

D. L. Cocchio was born and raised in this township and was an elementary school teacher for many years. Writing is her main passion. She was always fascinated by mystical and magical things and included them in all of her

cont. on page 34

D. L. Cocchio, Author

Kristen Houghton, Author

Three WP Police Officers Promoted

Lt. Lepore was given the badge of the late Jeffrey O’Brien.

“With the help of Captain Brady, we got in contact with the O’Brien family because I really wanted to wear his badge tonight to remember him and also to have a piece of him here with us,” Lepore said. A 23-year member of the WPPD, Capt. O’Brien passed away on Nov. 21, 2022, after an eight-year battle with brain cancer.

A Pequannock native, Sgt. Al Panicci graduated from William Paterson University with a degree in criminal justice and the County College of Morris with an associates in applied science. He joined the Woodland Park Police Department in January 2006, working as a patrol officer before moving to the detective bureau. Panicci has also been serving as one of the department’s LEAD (Law Enforcement Against Drugs) officers, working in Memorial Middle School leading the education of all eighth graders in the program.

“Al has been on the detective bureau for the past few years. The detective bureau is close to my heart because I was there for 18 years before moving up to captain,” Uzzalino said. “People coming up through the detective bureau get to learn a lot, a lot more things than you do on patrol, and it’s gonna help him out in his supervisory position.”

Woodland Park Acting Mayor Kallert and the Borough Council recently promoted three police officers. Sgt. Robert Lepore was promoted to Lieutenant. Det. Al Panicci was promoted to Sergeant. Lt. Joseph Domicolo, not pictured, was sworn in as a Provisional Captain.

“Many things have changed for me in the last eight weeks. Going from Councilwoman to Acting Mayor has been one of the biggest adjustments I’ve ever had to deal with,” Kallert said. “One thing that will never change and has not changed is my commitment to the men and women of the Woodland Park Police Department. I am so proud to be able to do this as one of my first recognitions.”

Lt. Robert Lepore served in the U.S. Marines for eight years. He was deployed to Iraq, serving in Fallujah and Alqaim, during major operations. Lepore was hired in February 2009 and has worked in the patrol division, traffic unit and the detective bureau. A lifelong Woodland Park resident who attended local schools, he was promoted to Sergeant in 2019. He is the son of former Mayor Pat Lepore and Mrs. Linda Lepore.

“I couldn’t be happier to make Bobby a lieutenant,” said Chief John Uzzalino. “He’s a good, hard worker. He gets things done.”

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WP Resident Recognized for National Honor

Woodland Park

resident Cathy Pagano was saluted by Acting Mayor Kallert and the Borough Council for being recognized by the national non-profit Wreaths Across America as the ninth recipient of the organization’s annual TEACH Award.

This award is given to an individual or group who has made a large contribution in teaching the next generation to remember and honor those who serve in our nation’s military.

Pagano retired after 40 years of serving as a history and sociology teacher. Since her retirement, she has continued to organize patriotic programs at Passaic County Technical-Vocational Schools (PCTVS) in Wayne, as well as in Passaic County and her Woodland Park community, by focusing on its youth. Her community work revolves

around teaching students the importance of respecting and honoring our nation’s veterans.

In addition to her work at PCTVS, Ms. Pagano is president of the Ladies Auxiliary of American Legion Post 238 in Woodland Park. There, she regularly leads Flag Day, Veterans Day, and Pearl Harbor Day programs; works to fund-

raise for the veterans; and leads the annual Americanism essay contest for students in grades 3-12.

Through PCTVS, Pagano started up the Wreaths Across America initiative locally six years ago at Holy Sepulture Cemetery in Totowa with an annual goal of sponsoring a wreath for the grave of every fallen veteran interred there.

Last year, PCTVS sponsored 2,800 wreaths, surpassing the previous year when it sponsored 1,935.

“Cathy has been supporting veterans, the town, and educating adults and children in this town for as long as I have known her,” said Acting Mayor Tracy Kallert. “If you wanna know anything about the history and how to support a vet-

eran and how to celebrate veterans, see Cathy, because she has made this her life’s work.”

Pagano expressed her appreciation for the recognition, noting that she has made it her life work educating children.

“I always believed that it was the role of a teacher to infuse ideas of positive, wonderful pride in America

that the men and women who served were sacrificing their lives so that we could live in freedom and looking at history to get us to remember that every person that was killed or died later, from whatever circumstances were, should be honored,” she said.

novels. Debbie is the author of the Psychic Circle Series, featuring Souls Entwined (Book 1), Magic Like That (Book 2), and Karma

Like This (Book 3). She has also penned one non-fiction book – So You Wanna Read Tarot, and two middle-grade time travel mysteries – Be Careful What You Wish For, and Magic by Moonlight.

Cocchio has been a Tarot teacher for over 30 years and a lead Ghost Investigator with NJGHS (New Jersey Ghost Hunters Society).

Her associate, Kristen Houghton, has written numerous books in the Cate Harlow Private Investigation Series. Her young adult novel, Lilith Angel, featuring a teenage investigator with distinct paranormal abilities has been chosen as a finalist in the Bram Stoker Awards. She is also the author of the award-winning novella, “Welcome to Hell.” Her lat-

est book was just released this summer – “TEETH: The Haunting of Dansbury Plot” told through the eyes of a twelve-year-old boy, his best friend, and his Civil War history professor, Granddad. Besides writing novels, Houghton is the author of two non-fiction books and numerous short stories which appear in popular anthologies. She holds a Doctorate in Linguistics and Education and taught World Languages and Cultures at the high school and university levels. Kristen resides in Northern NJ and Sanibel Island with her husband and baseball historian, Alan William Hopper. The Author Panel events have opened the door to many other opportunities for the two authors to share their love of writing. Cocchio and Houghton will both appear at an event at the Riverdale Library in NJ,

along with another author on October 19th at 7 pm. Their paranormal themes are perfect, being so close to Halloween. Currently, the two authors have been asked to do yet another event with the local women’s club sometime in February.

For more information on the two authors and their books or to reach them for your event, email debbiecocchio@yahoo.com or visit http://dlcocchio.webs. com.

For more information on DISC55, contact President Debbie DeLucca at 201-4782281.

Media contact: Debbie Cocchio/ Magic Moon Press 973-919-3387

19 Francisco Dr., Pompton Plains, NJ 07444 debbiecocchio@yahoo. com

http://dlcocchio.webs. com

Now Here’s A Tip!

By JoAnn Derson

*R.L. in Utah writes: “Do onions make you cry?

Tip: Cut off root first. Cut off top second. Remove outer skin and discard the first outer layer of the onion. Slice/dice/rings. Works great.” How do you cut your onions, and what helps to keep your eyes from watering? Write to us with your onion tips!

• You may not think to do this often, but you should: Clean your laptop! Not just the screen or keys, but the exterior as well. Get a microfiber cloth, spritz the cloth (never the machine itself) with a bit of isopropyl alcohol and rub away dirt and grime.

• “Grass stains can be removed from kids’ clothing

by rubbing the stains with a bar of Ivory soap. (I keep one just for stains.)” -- M.F. in Washington

* Special for S.P. in California. To remove ball point ink from leather, your best weapon is a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol.

Be sure to test first in an inconspicuous spot, as not all leathers are equal. Certain synthetic leathers that are dyed may experience color loss in a spot cleaning with alcohol. Work slowly and don’t rub too hard. Condition afterward to protect the leather.

• It’s important to include only approved materials when recycling curbside, but conserving space allows the trucks to fit more per load, which is another

great way to help the environment. A reader in North Carolina had something to say about this! They sent a great tip about nesting steel cans inside one another to compact space. You should also cut cardboard to smaller sizes and break down boxes, as well as crush plastic bottles and replace the caps.

• Making a smoothie with banana in it? When you’re done with that peel, chop it up (you can use a rinsed-out blender bottle) and chuck the pieces in your garden to provide food to plants and beneficial bugs. Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

(c) 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Totowa Library Events

Acting Studio

The acting studio serves as the foundational cornerstone of method acting, offering a lifelong learning manual that encompasses the actor’s personal growth and development through various methods, including self-awareness techniques, life coaching, Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT), philosophical principles, Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), an exploration of human values inspired by the analysis of Homer’s Odyssey, and a deep dive into the world of quantum mechanics.

The necessity for crafting a new theory arose from the limitation of existing acting methods, which primarily teach how to perform on stage without delving into the essence of the person behind the performance. It aims to bridge this substantial gap, seeking to answer the profound question, “Who am I?”

It centers on the harmonious integration of the triad comprising body, spirit, and soul, as well as the ego, subconscious, and higher self. It provides invaluable insights into how to apply this holistic understanding both on stage and in everyday life.

The acting studio extends to broad spectrum of individuals, including aspiring and seasoned artists, students in training, amateurs, and professionals. It is equally relevant for directors and dramatists. Moreover, it offers a path for those seeking to break free from ingrained behaviors that hinder the development of a liberated, spontaneous, and authentic self.

Based on “Supraconscious theory and method”

From ancient Greek Theatre to Method acting for beginners and advanced. Get certified and find your authentic identity through the roles you act.

Please join Maria Tsa-

roucha for an acting class at the Totowa Public Library, starting Saturday, October 28th from 11:00am-1:00pm and every Saturday thereafter. This class is for ages 12 and up, $10 per class. Please register at: totowapl.org/ register.

Book Presentation

The Totowa Library presents: A book presentation, “Supraconscious” The Genius Within You, by Maria Olon Tsaroucha! At a time when the arts and sciences converge more than ever, the book speaks about a contemporary, tangible metaphysics, fusing theories of quantum physics with mindfulness and the famous Method of the Actor’s Studio, in a new harmony. Please join Maria on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at 7:00pm. Visit totowapl. org/register or call: 973-7903265.

4 fun facts about the month of October

Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving each October. While October may not be home to Thanksgiving in the United States, Americans, much like their Canadian counterparts, have much to be thankful for in the tenth month of the calendar year. Fall temperatures tend to be at their most accommodating in October, which also happens to be home to Halloween. Those are not the only interesting and fun facts about this popular month.

1. October has something of a misleading name. Licensed drivers undoubtedly know that the prefix “octo” means eight, which is why Stop signs are octagons. So why does October, the tenth month of the year, have a name that suggests it should be the eighth month of the year? That peculiarity can be traced to the early

Roman calendar, which featured just 10 months, the eighth of which was October. The Romans eventually converted to a 12-month calendar, and October kept its name despite becoming the tenth month of that calendar.

2. Some notable individuals have holidays in their honor in October, including two on the same day. This year, Monday October 9, 2023, is both Columbus Day and Leif Erikson Day. It’s fitting that each figure’s holiday falls on the same

day, as both are among history’s more well-known explorers. Columbus Day commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492, while Leif Erikson Day celebrates a man believed to be the first known European to set foot in continental North America.

3. Columbus Day might court its fare of fanfare (and controversy), but its popularity cannot match that of October’s most beloved day to celebrate: Halloween. cont. on page 40

Courtesy Matthew F. Wachtler

Snug cleats, repeated kicking can contribute to a painful problem

Foot and ankle surgeon, Matthew F. Wachtler, DPM, FACFAS, treats many soccer-playing children for ingrown toenails. Often improper toenail trimming, snug soccer cleats and repetitive kicking creates this painful problem. Many kids wear hand-me-down cleats that don’t fit, while some

older children like tighter cleats as they believe it gives them a better feel for the ball and the field.

There are steps soccer moms and dads can take to prevent their children from suffering a painful ingrown toenail.

• First, teach children how to trim their toenails properly. Trim toenails in a fairly straight line, and don’t cut them too short.

• Second, make sure cleats fit properly. A child’s shoe size can change within a single soccer season.

• If a child develops a painful ingrown toenail, soaking their foot in room-temperature water and applying a topical antibacterial ointment and bandaid can reduce the inflammation.

But Dr. Wachtler warns parents against home treatments, which can be

dangerous such as digging out the nail, sticking anything beneath the nail or popping a blister. If your son’s or daughter’s ingrown toenails show signs of infection, it’s time to seek medical care. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons lists myths about ingrown toenail home treatments on its Web site, FootHealthFacts.org.

A foot and ankle surgeon can remove a child’s ingrown toenail, and prevent it from returning, with a simple, 10-minute surgical procedure. During the short procedure, the doctor numbs the toe and removes the ingrown portion of the nail. If the issue has been recurrent, various techniques can permanently remove part of a nail’s root too, preventing it from growing back. Most

children experience very little pain afterwards and can resume normal activity the next day.

For more information on ingrown toenails and other pediatric foot problems, contact Dr. Wachtler’s office at 973-857-1184 or www.CedarGroveFoot.com

Dr. Wachtler is board certified in foot surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons and serves as Secretary of the Eastern Division of the New Jersey Podiatric Medical Society

Manage Your Family’s Year-Round Health

Now is a good time to check in and make sure your entire family is protected from infectious diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccines help create protective antibodies that fight off infections. Timely routine vaccinations, such as MMR (measles, mumps and rubeola) and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), are known to prevent around 4 million deaths annually, yet only 1 in 5 adults are up to date on their vaccines.

Convenience, accessibility and lack of trust all play fundamental parts in why vaccination numbers are low across some demographic groups and geographic regions. Community pharmacies and clinics, such as the Kroger Family of Companies’ Pharmacies and The Little Clinic, have emerged as accessible and convenient options for people seeking needed healthcare services outside of traditional settings. These facilities offer a range of high-quality services, including medication counseling, health screenings and immunizations.

Routine preventive care, including vaccine administration, can take place at various points throughout the year. Certain populations, such as people who are 60 years of age and older, those with chronic diseases and some minority populations, are more at risk for contracting certain infections and are encouraged to maintain updated vaccinations and boosters throughout the year. (For children younger than 5 years of age, check with your local pharmacist or clinician for vaccine guidelines.)

The CDC recommends everyone 6 months old and older get an annual flu vaccine. Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory virus that infects

the nose, throat and lungs, and could lead to serious illness, hospitalization or death. Dominant flu strains are constantly shifting and protection from a single flu vaccine declines over time.

Retail pharmacies and clinics hold a unique position in the local communities they serve and are deeply committed to vaccine education and outreach. In addition to providing protection against illnesses such as influenza, vaccines also offer protection against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, varicella (chicken pox), measles, RSV, pertussis (whooping cough), COVID-19 and more. By equipping people with consistent, factual information, retail pharmacies and clinics empower them to make informed decisions about their health and the health of their loved ones.

Research shows schools and colleges have the potential to cultivate a higher disease transmission rate that affects all ages. When students are protected against vaccine-pre-

ventable illnesses, they experience fewer absences due to illness.

Ensuring children are current on their vaccines also creates opportunities for parents and caregivers to check their own preventive health statuses. The National Institutes of Health notes vaccine-preventable diseases cost the country approximately $27 billion annually in lost wages and increased healthcare costs.

Unlike some traditional healthcare settings, retail pharmacies and clinics are easily accessible. They are often located within local communities and have extended hours that cater to busy schedules, allowing flexibility for people getting their families vaccinated. Options like the Kroger Family of Companies’ Pharmacies and other retail pharmacies have established vaccine clinics within their pharmacy and clinic locations, making vaccinations a seamless and convenient part of the healthcare experience they provide.

Annual Gallup Polls consistently show pharmacists and nurse practitioners are among the most trusted people in the medical field. Healthcare professionals at retail pharmacies and clinics undergo rigorous training and possess in-depth knowledge about vaccines, proper storage and handling as well as administration techniques.

By prioritizing proactive vaccinations, retail pharmacies create an environment that supports the well-being of students, teachers, staff and families, helping communities live healthier lives.

To learn more, visit kroger.com/vaccinations or visit a local pharmacy or clinic.

Source: Kroger Health (Family Features)

4 Fun Facts... cont. from page 37

Halloween is celebrated on October 31 and History.com notes this can be traced to ancient Celts. The Celts celebrated the festival of Samhain on October 31, the night before their new year. They did this because they believed that night marked the return of the ghosts of the dead to earth. That emphasis on the ghoulish is present each Halloween as well.

4. October is considered a great time of year to take a road trip, and much of that

reputation can be traced to fall foliage. Leaves begin to change color in many regions in early October, and the resulting colorful landscape is beautiful to behold. Though some may presume the shift in color in October is due to the month’s typical drop in temperature, it’s actually due to a decrease in sunlight. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, leaves begin to lose their green color when photosynthesis from sunlight slows down, which happens because

Did you know?

Breast cancer affects millions of women each year, but breast cancer also can be diagnosed in men. Each year in the United States, about 2,400 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in men, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Roughly 270 men will

be diagnosed with breast cancer this year in Canada, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. Macmillan Cancer Support says men have a small amount of breast tissue behind their nipples, where breast cancer potentially can develop. Breast tissue in boys and girls is the same until

the hours of daylight dwindle considerably during the month of October. That lack of sunlight causes chlorophyll to break down, which in turn causes leaves to change color. But not all leaves will look the same, as any leaf-peeping pro will know. Some leaves turn red, while others turn brown, orange or yellow. The trees that turn red get more direct sunlight in October, while those that get less direct sunlight turn brown, orange or yellow.

puberty, when girls start to develop more. Signs of male breast cancer include a lump or swelling in the breast, redness or flaky skin in the breast, irritation or dimpling of the skin around the nipple, nipple discharge, or pulling in or pain of the nipple, states the CDC.

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