Passaic Valley Life December 2019

Vol. 2 • No. 12 • December 2019

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Page 4 • December 2019

PASSAIC VALLEY & CEDAR GROVE EDITORIAL

Passaic Valley Life & Cedar Grove Life Thank you for reading Passaic Valley Life and our inaugural issue of Cedar Grove Life.

Each month you can pick up a copy of the magazine at local businesses or visit www.iwantmypaper. com and sign up for a free copy that will be sent directly to your email each month.

Our goal is to provide you with stories and articles about people, places and things throughout your community. We are also asking our readers to send

us photos and information on your life events, parties, birthdays, weddings, engagements or any other milestones. You can send them to editor@ mylifepublications.com.

Please support all of the advertisers in our publications as they make this magazine available free to all with their advertising support. We want to help the local businesses in your communities and your support of them is appreciated.

Next Issue January 2020, Deadline January 3 To receive your FREE copy of Passaic Valley Life and/ or Cedar Grove Life direct to your email visit www.iwantmypaper.com and sign up!

Subscribe $35 / year / $60 for 2 Call 800-691-7549

turn our pages at www.passaicvalleylife.com www.cedargrovelife.com Š 2018 YUM, Inc. Oak Ridge, NJ

Editorial Jeff@ mylifepublications.com Sales Nick Celeste nicholasceleste3@ gmail.com cell 973-570-6550

Publisher Jeff Koonjy Editor Megan Roche Graphic Designers Terri Armswood Mary Lalama Sales Manager Jeff Koonjy

December 2019 • Page 5

Page 6 • December 2019

Project Help Collecting Christmas Cards for Vets This Holiday Season

F

or most people the holidays are a time for family and friends but for our war heroes in VA hospitals it can be sad and lonely.

It’s heartbreaking to realize that many of these brave service men and women don’t have family in the area and some have no family at all.

Project Help is ever so aware of this heartbreaking situation.

Periodically they visit the Lyons hospital and bring cards from youngsters and treats for the PTSD ward. “The patients love it…they are so happy to see us.

We spend a couple of hours talking, laughing and enjoying each other’s company. It does my heart good to touch the hearts of many and bring a smile to their faces”, said Sandy Mitchell of Project Help.

As Christmas approaches, the need for personal contact is urgent. Project Help is doing

a “Sign a Card” drive for veterans at Lyons hospital. For a donation of your choice, you get to choose a sentiment and have your name signed to the card. All of the cards will be personally delivered to the VA hospital in December, and given out to the men and women who won’t be home for Christmas.

Please go to https://donate. keela.co/project-help/christmas-cards-for-veterans where you will find the link to choose your donation and sentiment.

Your name will come from the donation form you complete and will be affixed to the card.

You can also send your donation to Project Help, 55 Bank St., Sussex NJ 07461, we will do the rest for you.

Any excess revenue will go into the Project Help Hardship Fund to assist veterans and continued on page 11

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Page 8 • December 2019

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Page 10 • December 2019

Expanded Pre-K Program Presented to BOE

C

harles Olbon School Principal Giovanna Irizarry recently shared a presentation with the Woodland Park Board of Education about the district’s expanded pre-kindergarten program. Currently, the school houses two integrated classes and one disabled class, serving a total of 34 students.

The full day program uses the “Creative Curriculum for Pre-School” program as its guideline. It aims to identify knowledge, skills and concepts that are important for preschool children to acquire in a number of areas including social/emotional development, literacy, motor development and much more.

Teachers take a studies approach, integrating content learning through in-depth investigation of topics. Students raise questions and discover answers through exploration.

They also work on a “question

of the day” and take part in small group instruction.

Students in the pre-K classes investigate interest areas.

They are able to engage with each other and manipulate materials in their own way. The curriculum program used provides teachers the opportunity to engage in meaningful play with the students. Students are also able to explore centers such as music, art and more.

The school district was recently awarded $261,360 in pre-K expansion grant funding by the state. Going forth, the district plans to reopen School #1 on McBride Avenue for the 2020-2021 school year and offer tuition-free pre-K to approximately 115-120 students.

“The goal will be to expand on the number of students serviced each year,” said Dr. Michele Pillari, district superintendent.

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December 2019 • Page 11

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continued from page 6 their families in times of need.

The fund is designated to help pay bills or provide food and gas cards for New Jersey veterans who qualify.

Project Help is a local, all volunteer 501c3 nonprofit charity, serving the needs of veterans in financial distress and assisting in career placement with fortune 500 companies and unions.

“We are currently accepting applications to serve on the

board of directors as well as onboarding volunteers for committee work in 2019”, said Sandy Mitchell, Executive Director of Project Help. For more information please call 973-8752068 or visit us on www.projecthelp.us/contact. Financial support to the Hardship Fund is greatly appreciated as well.

We look forward to providing some joy and support to the veterans who have given so much.

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Memorial School Students Attend Assembly with Matt Bellace

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emorial School students in Woodland Park were treated to an assembly funded by the Municipal Alliance Against Alcoholism & Drug Abuse with Matt Bellace, a youth motivational speaker and stand-up comedian. Dr. Bellace has a Ph.D. in clinical neuropsychology and author of the book, “A Better High.”

The program focused on natural highs, emotional resilience and mental health.

He started by doing a tower support exercise with a group of eight students, to illustrate to them the power of support from their peers.

Bellace had the students do a short meditation to stress the benefits of the practice. “Your generation is chronically energized,” he said. “There’s so much light in your face.” The use of electronics, especially at night suppresses melatonin, which is essential to good sleep.

Bellace also used music to illustrate the power of emotions. He encouraged them to listen to music, as well as exercise, as he

said it releases endormorphins, chemicals released by your body that produce a “natural high.”

In telling the students about his brother, who suffered from drug addiction, he noted that addicts can overcome when they

find something they love. “When you’re struggling, lean on healthy people for support,” he said. Learning how to express emotions in a healthy way is one of the most important things that they can do.

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Page 14 • December 2019

Science Tellers Assembly Program Aliens: Escape From Earth

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eatrice Gilmore and Charles Olbon students in Woodland Park both enjoyed a pre-Halloween treat with a visit from the Science Tellers assembly program. Conrad Colón led the students through the story, “Aliens: Escape From Earth,” where he integrated the story with science experiments to bring

key parts of the story to life.

Volunteer students assisted in some of the experiments. They turned a liquid into solid “worms” through a chemical reaction, launched a potato into the air using Boyle’s Law and made a flying rocket using two common household chemicals.

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Page 16 • December 2019

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December 2019 • Page 17

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Page 18 • December 2019

Cold Weather Tips to Protect Your Feet and Ankles Foot and ankle surgeon provides essential winter safety advice

I

Article courtesy of Advanced Foot Care of NJ t is never a good time for a foot or ankle injury, but some might consider the colder months to be the most inconvenient time to have their feet or ankles out of commission. Ironically, it is during the winter when many injuries in the lower extremities occur due to weather-related incidents.

From ankle sprains, to frostbite to broken toes, the damage can vary. However, by taking proper preventive measures, a person can decrease his or her chance of incurring a foot or ankle problem during the colder months, according to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).

In general, most people would do best to take the necessary safety steps to avoid foot and ankle injuries in the winter. However, injury prevention for those who have poor circulation, nerve damage caused by neuropathy or Raynaud’s

phenomenon, which is an extreme sensitivity to coldness, can be paramount.

To help, ACFAS provides three critical and easy-to-follow tips that can mean all the difference between comfort and pain in your feet during the winter.

1. Wear the Right Shoes “Whether caused by wearing high heels on icy surfaces or just sheer accident, falls are one of the most common causes of weather-related injuries.

Wintertime falls often result in an ankle sprain, or worse, a broken bone in the foot, ankle, heel or toe. I encourage patients to wear low-heeled shoes or boots with a traction sole to help prevent slipping,” said Dr. Catalano.

Equally important, wearing warm shoes or boots can protect a person’s feet in frigid temps. “Wearing water-resistant, insulated footwear serves as a barrier between the feet and outside elements; this is particularly important for

patients with neuropathy or Raynaud’s phenomenon. While different, both conditions block normal blood flow in the feet and places a person at a greater risk of developing additional problems. In some cases, people can incur chilblains, which are itchy, tender, red patches that emerge in response to cold air, or in extreme cases, frostbite,” added Dr. Catalano.

Remember, the thicker the insulation, the greater the protection is between a person’s feet and the adverse effects caused by cold weather.

2. Keep Your Feet Dry Damp feet can cause cold feet and can be just as harmful.

Wearing moisture-wicking socks will help keep feet dry from internal wetness caused by sweat, while water-resistant footwear will ward off external weather elements that can cause dampness.

“I encourage my patients to

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December 2019 • Page 19

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wear appropriate socks as a standard practice during the winter months to guard their feet in both foreseen and unexpected inclement weather conditions,” said Dr. Catalano.

For some, inserting foot warmers in their shoes serves as an extra layer of protection. Before doing so, it is best to consult with a foot and ankle surgeon. If worn incorrectly, foot warmers can burn the skin and cause severe harm for those with nerve damage.

3. Get the Right Help With all that can happen to the feet and ankles during the winter months, it is best to know what to do when faced with a condition or injury brought on by cold weather.

“In the case of a suspected fracture or sprain caused by a fall, see a foot and ankle sur-

geon or visit the emergency room as soon as possible for prompt diagnosis and treatment. If medical care is unavailable, for temporary relief of symptoms, try the RICE principle—Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. But remember, delaying treatment can result in long-term complications,” added Dr. Catalano.

For feet that are exposed to cold and dampness for a prolonged period, soak them in warm water, avoiding hot water or direct heat. Soaking them in warm water will allow the feet to regain their normal temperature gradually.

For more information on keeping your feet and ankles safe in the winter contact Advanced Foot Care of NJ. www.footpainnj.com.

Page 20 • December 2019

With Stylish, Practical Solutions, Elite Optical Looks Out for Its Customers

T

By Lindsey Kelleher oo much blue light can be bad for your eyes.

Blue light is emitted by smartphones, iPads and computers. Its rays, which are high in energy, can help toward boosting attention, reaction times and mood during the day. But at nighttime, blue light can make it difficult to fall asleep and can cause your eyes to become fatigued.

If you’re concerned about getting too much exposure to blue light, you can buy a pair of glasses made special to block out these rays.

Elite Optical specializes in Pixel computer glasses, which block out blue light and prevent eye strain. These glasses are perfect for someone who works in front of a computer all day.

Come to Elite Optical and learn more about Pixel glasses and other types of glasses to suit all your eyewear needs.

“We’re trying to help people see better and protect their eyes,” said Elite Optical owner and licensed optician Fares Sabbagh.

“You need the right experience to choose what kind of lens would be the most suitable. There’s a wide variety of different types of lenses in the market now.”

Sabbagh came to Totowa with 35 years of experience as an optician in the eyewear industry. He opened Elite Optical in the space along Totowa Road where Optics

by Frank used to be and hopes to continue Frank’s legacy of providing customers with top-notch, high-quality and fashionable eyewear.

A lot has changed in the eyewear industry over the years, Sabbagh said, noting that eyewear has evolved and become more fashionable.

Sabbagh remembers the first pair of glasses he wore back in 1981: big avatar glasses that looked like goggles. “They were hideous,” he said with a laugh.

Now glasses are sold with sharper lenses and a wider variety of frames which are thin, lightweight, sporty, semi-rimless, narrow and rectangular. They also have scratch-resistant and anti-reflective coatings. Elite Op-

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In addition to computer glasses, Elite Optical also sells glasses with digital lenses that are made with computer-controlled surfacing equipment that precisely matches the customer’s prescription. Digital lenses provide the customer with more accurate lens power than lenses that are made by a human.

Elite Optical also makes glasses with anti-reflective coatings on the lenses that diminish the glare from objects that produce a glare such as computer screens or car headlights.

The business also specializes in children’s eyewear and transitional lenses, which activate ultra-violet rays from the sun so the brighter the light is the darker the lens will get.

“We provide something for everyone,” Sabbagh said.

Schedule your next visit to Elite Optical today. Elite Optical, 386 Totowa Road, Totowa, 862-257-3272, eliteoptical326@ gmail.com

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December 2019 • Page 21

StudentsTreated to An Assembly by Cam Awesome

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emorial School students in Woodland Park were treated to an assembly by Cam Awesome, courtesy of the WP Municipal Alliance Against Alcoholism & Drug Abuse,

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Page 22 • December 2019

en Gloves National Champion, two time Olympic Trails Champion Heavyweight boxer, and former captain of the USA National boxing team.

Cam told the students he didn’t start boxing until he was a senior in high school.

As a teen, he was bullied and was overweight. As he told the students his story on how he trained to become a champion boxer he noted how life was much like boxing training. Getting knocked out is like failing a class. If you work hard you succeed, much like how if students study they will do well. He spoke about working to build resilience.

“If you can fail without being discouraged, success will become inevitable,” he said.

In speaking about social media, Cam encouraged the students to be wary of believing everything they see online. He said everyone usually only puts the “good stuff” on their social media. When Cam failed to make the Olympics, the backlash online got to him, sending him in to a depression, where be abused alcohol “No one hit me, no one touched me, but it hurt more than anything,” he said of the words of strangers online.

Cam was able to pull himself out and become the success he is today. He realized he was a winner, with so many other dozens of boxing titles won. “Have a back-up plan,” he told the kids. “And set big goals.”

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December 2019 • Page 23

December is “Toys and Eye Safety” Awareness Month: ECC-NJ Pearls & Tips

Dr. Swati J. Parekh Says, “Ask for protective eyewear on your holiday gift wish list”

I

n the beloved holiday movie, A Christmas Story, Ralphie attempts to convince his parents and Santa that a “Red Ryder BB gun” is the perfect Christmas gift. They all reject his pleas with the same warning: “You’ll shoot your eye out.” While you may not literally shoot your eye out, a new study in Ophthalmology Retina – a journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology – shows that BB and pellet guns do blind children every year.

And, the number of eye injuries related to such non-powder guns are increasing at an alarming rate. Another study published earlier this year showed an increase of almost 170 percent over

the last 23 years. If toy guns are on your shopping list, *EyeCare Consultants of NJ and the American Academy of Ophthalmology urge you to also give the gift of protective eyewear. Protective eyewear and proper guidance make BB, pellet and paintball gun activities safer for children.

To prevent eye injuries, ophthalmologists – physicians who specialize in medical and surgical eye care – share the following tips.

Buy the proper eye protection. Always wear eye protection that meets appropriate national standards when using non-powder guns.

Get a target. Have children shoot BB and pellet guns at paper or gel targets

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with a backstop to trap BBs or pellets.

Educate children. Teach them proper safety precautions for handling and using non-powder guns.

Be present. Ensure that there is always appropriate adult supervision.

Know what to do (and what not to) if an eye injury occurs. Seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist. As you wait for medical help, make sure to never to touch, rub, apply pressure, or try to remove any object stuck in the eye.

“Ophthalmologists see first-hand the devastating damage toy guns, of any type, can inflict on the eyes; children are injured or blinded & I’ve seen

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During Red Ribbon Week, which was marked Oct. 23-31, all the schools had different theme days, such as wearing red, funny socks or team jerseys. Local Daisy and Girl Scouts put out red rib-

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bons outside of the schools. In all three schools, there was a door decorating contest where classes displayed what underage drinking and using drugs means to them and how it is harmful. Winning classes will be treated to a pizza party from the Alliance.

Red Ribbon Week was kicked off with a free yoga and mindfulness class for families at Dowling Gardens and capped with the annual Trick or Trunk event on Halloween where some 500 children spent an evening safely trick or treating to the 40 plus volunteer “trunks” in attendance. Prizes were given to the best trunks.

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The #1 Reason to List Your House this Winter

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pring has been believed by many sellers as the best time of year to put their homes on the market because buyer demand traditionally increases at that time of year. What they don’t realize is if every homeowner believes the same thing, then that’s when competition will increase the most.

So, what’s the #1 reason to list your house in the winter?

Less competition.

Housing supply traditionally shrinks at this time of year, so the choices buyers have are limited. According to data from the National Association of Realtors the ‘sweet

spot’ to list your house for the most exposure naturally occurs in the late fall and winter months (November – January).

Temperatures aren’t the only thing that heats up in the spring – so do listings!

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Page 30 • December 2019

New Gender Studies Elective Incorporates Modern and Historical Feminism into Curriculum

T

By Brianna Rodriguez he English Department developed a new elective course for students in grades 11 and 12 called Gender Studies. The half-year course focuses on gender issues in the current world, while also overviewing feminism throughout history.

English teacher Mrs. Kathleen Dellanno teaches the new course. She outlined that the class will deal with the four waves of feminism: “From each wave we will be reading short stories, poetry, seeing films, looking at photography, fashion trends, and also looking into music and how the values of each wave of feminism are reflected into the different media.”

One particular film the students watched was Mona Lisa Smile, a story set in the 1950s during a time when women had certain social norms to follow. One troubling norm in particular was that women, even of academic excellence, were expected to focus on becoming a full-time housewife.

Throughout the course, stu-

dents are encouraged to bring in current events that discuss gender issues in our society.

“My students and I are realizing that gender issues are a huge topic in our society right now,” says Dellanno. “This gives my students an opportunity to let the class go in the direction that they steer it based on their interests, their concerns, and what’s going on in the world right now.”

According to Mrs. Dellanno, students are already showing incredible interest in the course. Carmen Alexia Petito ‘20 enjoys the individuality the class offers. “Everyone can voice their opinions openly and express their points of views on topics,” she says.

Dellanno hopes that, by the end of the course, students will get a better understanding of feminism and gender studies in history, as well as understanding both points of view in an issue. Dellanno also noted that incorporating literature and the arts is an important way to emphasize the main points of historical gender issues being taught to the class.

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December 2019 • Page 31

Hornets Triumph in Homecoming Game, Energized by Community Support

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By Kassidy Fraser & Megan Morales n October 19th, the Varsity Football Team dominated in a 42-7 win over Indian Hills during the Homecoming Game. The impressive athletic showing was the culmination of the annual Spirit Week, which generated PV pride

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through friendly competitions and special events.

Starting on Tuesday, October 15, students were encouraged to show their school pride through different creative themes.

These themes included Green and White, Tie-dye and Neon, Culture Day, and Color War. Each of these days, students

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Page 32 • December 2019

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and teachers were encouraged to show their PV pride by constructing outfits according to the theme of the day. During Color War, held on the final day of Spirit Week, each grade level was assigned a particular color to wear to show their spirit and enthusiasm. The Senior Class, who wore black, was announced as the winner during the pep rally.

Participants, decked out in garb according to the day’s theme, filled the halls throughout Spirit Week. “Anything that brings us together as a community I think is important,” says Dr. Iobst a member of the Homecoming Committee.

Homerooms showed off their creativity and artistic skills with the continuing tradition of the Door Decoration Competition. Students and teachers styled their doors according to this year’s theme, PV Pride. Teachers and students went all out with their decorations this year, adding to the excitement of the week. The winning homerooms included Mrs. Heather

Goethe, Mrs. Jamie Picarelli, Mrs. Megan Miele/Mr. Joseph Feinstein/Mrs. Daria Leidig/Mr. Randall Sanders, and Ms. Lori Demsey.

On the Friday before the game, Supervisor of Athletics Mr. Joseph Benvenuti organized a pep rally as a final display of school spirit. To begin, the Homecoming Court for each grade level was introduced. Sophomores Jessier Soriano and Isabella Stile

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Page 36 • December 2019

won Mr. and Ms. Green and White. Juniors Aidan Timms and Aaliyah Figueroa were Mr. and Ms. Hornet. Lastly, Mr. and Ms. Passaic Valley were seniors Brandon Timothy and Lexie Deluca. Each court was voted in by their fellow classmates.

The pep rally, held during 8th period, was certainly a fun break from routine.

However, the festivities serve a much larger purpose. “It’s so important that we feel a sense of school pride and tradition,” explained Mrs. Picarelli, Chair of the Homecoming Committee.

To close the pep rally, students and teachers competed against each other in the relays. The relays contained a series of obstacles that challenged runners.

Four students from each grade level raced against four members of the Passaic Valley staff.

Spirit Week was punctuated by Varsity Football’s commanding 42-7 victory over Indian Hills on Saturday, October 19.

“The community was out in full force,”

said Mr. Benvenuti, as several members of the community showed their support.

Senior football players, cheerleaders, and band members were brought to the center of the field with their families to be recognized before their last home football game at Passaic Valley. Throughout the game the Varsity Cheer Team kept the crowd energized, accompanied by younger cheerleaders from the sending districts.

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Page 38 • December 2019

2019 Open House Successfully Showcases All PV Has to Offer

T

By Kristina Martir Olivia Manfredo , Gabriella Gutierrez his year, PV hosted its annual Open House on October 19th for its sending districts. Academics, athletics, and extra-curricular activities highlighted much of what Passaic Valley can offer those who enroll through booths, demonstrations, and performances.

Immense planning went into this event to make it such a success. Dr. Cardillo explained how the Open House first began as a vision to showcase the school’s activities, programs and, most importantly, the school’s unity. Teachers, students, administration, and staff members volunteered to come together to put their best foot forward and present a reputable image of the school.

Dr. Cardillo envisions a successful Open House as including “good publicity, different people coming together with open minds, staff being able to share what we offer, and student guides.”

Passaic Valley students are the greatest asset we have for convincing future Hornets and their families that PV is truly the place to be. “There is nothing better than a good student testimonial,” Dr. Cardillo said.

The night of the Open House, the STEM Department provided interactive experiments for middle schoolers and their guardians. Presentations of electrical currents through circuits, resonance and frequencies, pendulum waves, and many more

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December 2019 • Page 39

demonstrations were hosted by Dr. Susanne Iobst, Mr. Ed Iobst, and Mr. Randall Sanders. Together the science teachers highlighted the STEM Explorations class, Rube Goldberg projects, and PV’s robust STEM curriculum.

In a much anticipated demonstration by the Criminal Justice Program, NJ Transit Officer Roman brought his K-9 partner Officer Jet for a simulated explosives search. Following the demonstration, each audience member was encouraged to pet Officer Jet who and ask Officer Roman any further questions. The Criminal Justice Program also invited members of the Passaic County SWAT team to speak with Open House attendees about their careers and PV’s Criminal Justice offerings.

Several teachers held presentations and conferences in classrooms to inform visitors of PV’s diverse and rigorous academic programs. Mr. Tim Donnelly informed guests of dual enrollment courses. Mrs. Jamie Picarelli and Ms. Lori Quail discussed the Advanced Placement and Honors classes. Mrs. Cheryl Joseph, Ms. Abbie O’Connor, and Ms. Gianna Riccardi conferenced with parents and middle-schoolers about Co-Teaching and Multiple Disabilities classes. Ms. Melanie Vasa showed off her Photography classes and Dark Room. The Teen Center invited visitors to tour their room outside the cafeteria. Ms. Rosanna Napolitano showcased the 8th Grade Italian Accelerated Program. Mr. Billy Goodman gave tours of the Unity Garden in the courtyard. Mr. William Phillian and a couple of his students discussed the Engineering Program. Mrs. Stephanie Roberts presented PVTV and their work. Ms. Kathleen Menake showed off PV’s video conferencing equipment and the CITVC class. Finally, Ms. Arianna Robeson, Mr. Kevin Hai-

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mowitz, and Mr. Joe Wassel presented Computer Aided Design and Computer Science offerings.

In the Library, Art classes showcased various student works from their diverse and ingenious projects. The display served as a preview of sorts for the Art Show later in the year.

The Theatre Department presented a ten-minute preview of the 2019 Fall show, Lend Me a Tenor, in the Schneider Auditorium.

“I’m glad that many people were able to watch the preview of this show to see what the Theatre Department offers,” said Ms. Pia Vanderstreet, director of Lend Me a Tenor.

Choir performed two pieces and the Hornet Harmonics performed the “Star Spangled Banner” in a cappella.

Freshman, JV and Varsity Cheerleaders showcased a glimpse of school spirit by performing sideline cheers, cheering for guests as they walked into the Griswald Gymnasium. This brought much enthusiasm to the event and set a tone for the night.

During the Open House, many athletic teams and academic clubs informed attendees of their offerings at booths inside the Gris Gym. With twenty-four sports and over thirty clubs, prospective students were able to truly understand the wealth of opportunities that come with being a Hornet.

In the Farrell Gym, Ms. Jenai Agosta’s Gymnastics Team performed impressive acrobatic feats as they encouraged interested middle schoolers to sign-up.

“We have the best teachers here, showing what we have to offer,” says Dr. Fowler. “Anyone who came in [October 9th] saw the best of the best.”

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December 2019 • Page 41

raise funds.

At the conclusion of the campaign, on Dec. 2, officers who participated were to be shaved by Xclusive Cuts owner/barber Pat Frequenza at his salon on McBride Avenue.

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Page 42 • December 2019

I Remember Dad, Chapter 2:

A Christmas Story

T

By Richard Mabey Jr. he Christmas of 1964 was a most memorable Christmas for me.

It was the very year, that in September I had joined Boy Scout Troop 170. My Dad had joined the troop committee and we had both attended the big District Wide Boy Scout Camporee in October of 1964.

I was beginning to see my Dad in a fullness of character, that I had never really noticed before. But it was the Christmas of 1964 that gave me a golden opportunity to see my Dad, as a man with a very vulnerable side. A man who had a sensitive, sentimental perspective

on life.

It was in early December that my heart and mind filled itself with a vision, a dream, an energetic desire to build a little village beneath the family Christmas Tree. I had told my Dad about my plans to build the little village and Dad kind of smiled and a hint of a sparkle came to his eyes. And, on the Saturday morning before Christmas that year, Dad and I walked down the basement steps. Dad told me that he had a box of old Plasticville houses and stores to give to me.

Many of you, no doubt, remember the

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From the Christmas of 1964, beaming proud of my little Plasticville village, that Dad and I created.

December 2019 • Page 43

Page 44 • December 2019

little Plasticville homes and stores. Each one came in its own little box. You had to assemble them by yourself. You didn’t need any glue at all, as they simply would snap together. They were brightly painted and for a boy of 11 years old, a great source of imagination and wonder.

In a corner of our old basement, stored upon a shelf, was a big box with big, thick, black writing on it, that simply read, “Plasticville.” Dad had written that one single word with a big magic marker, many years ago.

I remember Dad carried the big box to his wooden workbench. A kind of sadness filled with my Dad’s eyes and he opened the box and took out each Plasticville home and store.

Most of them were no longer in the original boxes, but rather were now wrapped in old newspaper. Dad unwrapped the first Plasticville home that he took out of the box. I remember him looking at the newspaper page that had been used to wrap up the little plastic house.

“1949, Richie, 1949. That’s the last time I ever looked at any of these little houses and stores. 1949,” I remember my beloved father saying to me as he looked at the old yellowed, frayed newspaper page.

As I looked up at my father, I saw the quiet sadness in his eyes. The moment deeply touched my heart. I had always seen my Dad as a man who was bigger than life, a strong man, a man

Dad and I in our scout uniforms. Scouting was a big part of both of our lives. It gave us the opportunity to camp the great outdoors, hike the Appalachian Trail and canoe the Delaware River, together as father and son.

who could do almost anything. But now, in the basement of our old home, at the age of 11, I saw my father as a man whose little joys in life were put on the back burner for the sake

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Welcome to Cedar Grove Life!

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PICK UP YOUR COPY TODAY AT ONE OF THE LOCATIONS IN CEDAR GROVE LISTED BELOW! Bagel Café, 597 Pompton Ave Cedar Grove Liquors, 597 Pompton Ave Krausers, 597 Pompton Ave Super Food Town, 597 Pompton Ave Subway, 505 Pompton Ave Cedar Grove Library, One Municipal Plaza Cedar Grove Town Hall, 525 Pompton Ave Cedar Grove Post Office, 519 Pompton Ave Urgent Care, 480 Pompton Ave Rain Florist, 466 Pompton Ave

Cedar Grove, 466 Pompton Ave CVS, 387 Pompton Ave Dunkin, 378 Pompton Ave Bagles n More, Pilgram Shopping Plaza Pilgram Cleaners, Pilgram Shopping Plaza Anthony Franco Pizza, Pilgram Shopping Plaza Elite Nail Spa, Pilgram Shopping Plaza GNC, Pilgram Shopping Plaza Amazing Savings, Pilgram Shopping Plaza

December 2019 • Page 45

Welcome to Passaic Valley Life!

To receive your free copy of Passaic Valley Life r Ceda n direct to your email visit r o f i k Chec ocations eL e! www.iwantmypaper.com and sign up!

Grov next issu our PICK UP YOUR COPY TODAY AT ONE OF THE LOCATIONS LISTED BELOW! LITTLE FALLS Albert John Hair Designers, 106 Main St Bagels Unlimited, 163 E Main St Electric Flair, 105 Main St Health on Main, 155 E Main St Krausers, 163 E Main St Lakeland Bank, 86 Main Street Nail Clinic, 103 Main St Pencil Works, 96 Main Street Shag 86 Little Falls, 86 Main Street The Falls Kitchen, 90 Main Street The UPS Store, 163 Main Street Bagel Bistro, 123 Newark Pompton Turnpike D&Y Convenience Store, 101 Newark Pompton Turnpike Sun Nails, 101 Newark Pompton Turnpike The Kitch, 101 Newark Pompton Turnpike Little Falls Library, 8 Warren St Troy Orthodontics, 159 E Main St Main Street Antique Center, 87 Main St The Fine Grind, 101 Newark Pompton Turnpike Once Upon A Time Boutique, 453 Main St 2 Sweet, 44 Main St Little Falls Auto Body, 41 Main St Little Falls Physical Therapy Center, 333 Main St Maggies Town Tavern, 10 Van Ness Ave Passaic Valley High School, Main Street TOTOWA Mazzo Jewelers, 384 Totowa Rd Elite Optical, 386 Totowa Rd Se7te Woodfire Pizza, 534 Union Blvd Apollo Flag, 594 Union Blvd Hair To Stay, 595 Union Blvd Pawndingo, 594 Union Blvd Totowa Nails, 534 Union Blvd Dr Richard Gryzmolowicz , 418 Union Blvd Blooming Nails & Spa, 370 Union Blvd Joey’s Peruvian, 344 Union Blvd GinaMarie Hair Studio, 340 Union Blvd

The Sombrero Tacoria, 332 Union Blvd Totowa Bagels, 159 Union Blvd Totowa Chinese Restaurant, 324 Union Blvd Union Food Store, 357 Union Blvd Brooklyn Bagels Totowa, Union Blvd Elite Spine & Sports Care , 349-351 Union Blvd Young Star Nails, 169 Union Blvd Progressive Car Care, 587 Union Blvd Cyndia’s, 169 Union Blvd Arc Auto Glass, 560 Union Blvd

WOODLAND PARK Municipal Building, 5 Brophy Lane Woodland Park Library, Brophy Lane Pipe Kingz Smoke Shop, 250 Browertown Rd Great Wall Chinese Restaurant, 250 Browertown Rd Nino Tollis Salon, 281 Browertown Rd Mauro Tollis Salon Hair Colour Group, 281 Browertown Rd Medi Center Pharmacy, 993 McBride Ave Trevi Fine Jewelry, 1001 McBride Ave Viva La Pizza, 1005 McBride Ave Dunkin, 999 McBride Ave Platinum Real Estate Solutions, 1011 McBride Ave Salon Amici, 1021 McBride Ave Parkwest Bagel Cafe, 991 McBride Ave Tommy’s Taste of Italy, 654 McBride Ave Washington Convenience Store, 654 McBride Ave Rovers Make Overs, 1045 McBride Ave Carvel, 1045 McBride Ave Mini Mart Food Store, 1045 McBride Ave Kay Spa , 744 McBride Ave Miracle Nails, 744 McBride Ave Thomas Haircutters, 744 McBride Ave Golden Styles Barber Studio, 154 Rifle Camp Rd Tu Nails, 146 Rifle Camp Rd Amore Ristorante, 140 Rifle Camp Rd Shadow Hobbies, 1012 McBride Ave Lorenzo Bistro, 223 New St

Page 46 • December 2019

of the somber reality of working hard to make a living.

On that Saturday morning, back in late December of 1964, my Dad’s voice was filled with joy and splendor as he told me all about the train set up that he had at the end of the hallway in the home he grew up. And then, the happy song in my Dad’s voice turned to a more solemn and earnest tone as he told me that it was back in 1949, that he took down his train set to put a little desk and filing cabinet at that little nook in the upstairs hallway. Dad made the sacrifice so that his sister could have a little office set up to do the bookkeeping for the trucking company that Dad and his brother, Edward, owned and operated.

That morning, on Dad’s workbench, my father and I assemble a dozen or more of the old Plasticville homes and stores.

It was such a fun-filled little time. Dad took great pride in telling me the story behind each little Plasticville building. Some of them, he had gotten as Christmas gifts. Some, he had purchased himself. And, the one of the little stores had been given

to him by one of his aunts.

After lunch, Dad helped me to paint the streets, the sidewalks and the lawns, of our village, on a big piece of plywood.

We both had a blast that day. We created and built our own little town. It was just a lot of fun. Outside the snow covered the lower part of the basement windows. There was a certain comfort of the warmth of the old coal burner. That Saturday, my Dad and I became closer in spirit and in friendship.

My Dad was a kind man. At times he was very strict with me. Dad always wanted me to do my very best in school. He expected me to go to Sunday School, except if I was really sick.

Dad did his very best to live up to the ideals of his faith and the tenets of the Boy Scout Oath and Law. I loved my Dad with all my heart. To this day, I remember with great fondness, the joy and splendor that my Dad and I shared when, together, we built our little Plasticville town.

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SALES HELP WANTED! LOOKING FOR INDEPENDENT SALES CONTRACTORS Sales includes Newspaper advertising, websites, Apps and Online programs Commission plus incentives.

Please email jeff@mylifepublications for more information

Lorenzo’s R E S TA U R A N T

Family Owned and Operated Same Owners Since 1979 • Sam and Nico Stabile

LET US CATER YOUR CHRISTMAS and NEW YEARS NOW ACCEPTING NEW YEAR’S EVE RESERVATIONS CHRISTMAS CATERING ORDERS MUST BE PICKED UP

BY CHRISTMAS EVE 5PM CLOSED CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR’S DAY

NOW SERVING EXPRESS LUNCH • Daily Specials • BYOB Our Special Wines Fresh from the Vineyard Can Be Purchased by the Bottle Only During Your Lorenzo’s Dinner or For Carry Out

Free WiFi Also Serving Our Original Famous Pizza...

As Always, Delicious and Made With Spring Water

• We Deliver • On and Off Site Catering Available ANY DAY Bring In This Coupon or Just Mention This Offer

15% OFF

Your Lunch or Dinner Total Bill Open Mon.-Thurs. 11am-9pm Fri. & Sat. 11am-10pm • Sun. 12-9pm

Not To Be Combined with Any Other Discounts or Promotions.

Not Valid on Holidays. Expires Jan. 15, 2020

223 New St. • Woodland Park • 973-345-4141 www.LorenzosRestaurant.net

1011 McBride Ave Woodland Park 973.837.8510

Wishing All A Joyous Holiday Season and Happy New Year!

R DE ACT N U TR N CO

R FO NT RE

W NE TING LIS

23 Seneca Drive, Oakland $389,999

195 Lackawanna Ave, Apt 1 Woodland Park For Rent $1,475 MO

R FO LE SA

W NE TING LIS

R FO NT RE

14 Haverhill Ave, Woodland Park - For Sale $419,000

123 Winfred Drive, Totowa Boro $559,900

211 Lackawanna Ave Wood Land Park -Commercial For Rent $1,200

5 Battle Ridge Trail Totowa $749,000

Meet Our Agents

Faith Salviano Broker of Record

Elyse Adrian-Johnston Sales Associate

Antonio Arenas Bipinchandra Shukla Sales Associate Sales Associate

Indar K. Ahuja Sales Associate

Joseph Muccio 3rd Sales Associate

Lillian Dobre Sales Associate