Passaic Valley 2024

Practical Presents

Father’s Day gift ideas for hard-to-buy-for dads

Shopping for your dad on Father's Day each year can be a challenge, especially when he says he doesn't want anything or claims he already has everything he needs. However, focusing on the things he enjoys such as music, exercising or hobbies like woodworking or metalworking can send you down the right path toward finding a gift to say "thank you" for all he's done and show him how much he means to you.

To help make the experience of shopping for your father less complicated, consider these practical options, and find more gift ideas to make his day at eLivingtoday.com.

Help Dad Transform His Workspace

\When home projects abound, the right tools can help dad work smarter, solve problems and get more done easier and faster. With unprecedented adaptability and flexibility, the IQ Vise System by Work IQ Tools features a ball and socket design that allows articulation and 360-degree rotation at any angle for optimal work positioning while complementing task-specific jaws create the perfect grip for an extensive range of shapes and materials. Plus, IQ Connect plug-and-play accessories provide hands-free assistance on the vise and around your work area via three additional mounting options. Find more Father's Day gift ideas to help dad work smarter at workiqtools.com.

Give Dad the Gift

the equipment he needs to complete his workouts at home. From strength training equipment like dumbbells to cardio equipment such as running shoes, a jump rope and more, plus essentials like a yoga mat and resistance bands, there are plenty of options available to help your dad create a fitness center in the comforts of home.

Let Dad Listen to His Favorite Tunes in Peace

The right set of wireless, noise-canceling headphones can be a gamechanger when it comes to listening to music or podcasts. Replacing those old, wired headphones with a pair of in-ear or over-ear Bluetooth-connected ones - whichever style he typically preferswith an extended battery life can serve as an upgrade whether your dad is hitting the gym, walking the dog, taking a phone call on the go or just watching his favorite show on his phone while lounging at home.

Source: Family Features

Photos courtesy of Unsplash

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Local Girl Holds Annual Lemonade Stand To Benefit Children's Hospital

By Tina Pappas

Local resident Marisa Gizzi recently held her annual lemonade stand to benefit the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) on May 7. The lively first grader, who attends School No. 2, has made it an annual tradition, along with her family's support. It all began when her older brother Robbie wanted to do something for the hospital in order to say thanks for saving her life.

According to Marisa's mother Nicole, the entire family's gratitude towards the hospital made them supportive of Robbie's idea for the fundraiser after Marisa underwent surgery to remove a congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM). The benign lung lesion appears before birth as a cyst or mass in the chest. A routine ultrasound revealed Marisa had one while Nicole was pregnant with her. "So when Marisa was

only two months old, she had her lower left lobe of her lung removed at CHOP," she explained. "During that time, my older child Robbie was just five and he really wanted to do a lemonade stand. The money made from it would go towards the hospital as a way of thanking them for saving his sister's life."

Nicole added that Marisa is now a happy kid and doing things she enjoys. As a token of their gratitude, the family has been holding the lemonade stand for the past five years, with the exception of 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last year, Marisa was chosen as a 2023 CHOP Champion/Ambassador for the hospital's 31-Day Challenge, which is an annual fundraiser event to support pediatric healthcare initiatives. Participants join in many activities that go to raise funds and awareness to support children's health.

This year, she's an ambassador again for the 31-day Challenge, with a goal of surpassing last year's amount of over $3,000 by reaching $5,000 in donations from all U.S. states.

"Marisa has so far collected donations from 15 states so she's doing great job,"

Nicole said. "She loves making her videos and putting it across all the social media platforms on my accounts. We are so grateful to CHOP. I don't know where we'd be without them. They really work miracles at that hospital."

Nicole and her husband

Bob continue to be thankful for Marisa's progress and say she is now an outgoing, funny and caring 7-year-old.

"She's into musical theater and loves 'Wicked,'" she added. "CHOP gave us hope when we felt hopeless. Marisa is here and thriving because of them."

Anyone wishing to donate or purchase an item from the Thirty-One Gifts Fundraiser can visit https:// linktr.ee/Nicolegizzi.

The Gizzi Family of Little Falls is pictured supporting Marisa’s annual lemonade stand to benefit the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls Local resident Marisa Gizzi recently held her annual lemonade stand to benefit the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) on May 7.

Hometown Heroes Program to Include Google Maps System in Little Falls

By Tina Pappas

The Township recently expanded its Hometown Heroes Banner Program to not only honor fallen service members from Little Falls who fought during World Way I, World War II and other wars, but to also include living veterans and active duty service members from Little Falls.

Additionally, it will now offer a Google Maps system so that families and friends will be able to track down any banner they are searching for, without having to inquire within the Township for the exact location of the banner.

According to Council President Anthony Sgobba, who has been spearheading the banner program, the Township is currently mapping all of the banners via an innovative mapping system to locate all the veterans and active duty service members in Little Falls through cell phones.

"In the future we will also have a voice biography of each veteran and active duty service member, that anyone will be able to access through their cell phones," he explained. "The Google Maps system for the Hometown Heroes Banner Program is currently being worked on to research all the individual banners. We're hoping to have it completed by the end of 2024."

Sgobba also said the effort to add the system will make it very convenient for families to now locate a banner and receive all the background bio information at their fingertips in a quick and easy manner without having to contact the Township.

Anyone interested in the Hometown Heroes Banner Program, or to apply, can visit www.lfnj.com/sites/default/files/field/files-docs/little_falls_hometown_hero_banner_ application_3.pdf

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls

The Township of Little Falls is implementing a new Google Maps system to make it easy to locate any banner under the Hometown Heroes Banner Program. Pictured is a banner located at the corner of Main Street and Union Avenue.

Passaic County to Designate Federal Funding for Traffic Safety in Little Falls

By Tina Pappas

Passaic County recently received federal funding totaling $500,000 to improve traffic safety in Little Falls. The funding is earmarked for traffic improvements throughout the Township, particularly at the intersection of Clove Road and Long Hill Road, which has been a long-standing safety concern of many local officials.

The funding stems from an initiative by Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, who recently announced that all 15 of the Community Project Funding (CPF) requests she submitted to the House Appropriations Committee for Fiscal Year 2024, totaling $15.8 million coming back to NJ-11, were passed by the House of Representatives. The legislation is now headed to the Senate and is expected to be signed into law by President Joe Biden. The initiative marks the

third round of "Community Projects" during her tenure. Sherrill was in Little Falls on May 3 to personally present the check to Mayor James Damiano and the Township Council in front of the municipal building. Also present was Passaic County Commissioner Sandi Lazzara, who helped to rally for funding needs under the county's Complete Streets Policy, adopted in 2014.

Mayor Damiano discussed the impact the federal funding would mean for public safety, particularly at the Clove Road/Long Hill Road intersection.

"It's definitely one of our more concerning intersections that we have here and is difficult for drivers to navigate," he explained.

"Having a traffic light there, especially with federal funding to help us put it there, is going to be instrumental and increase safety here in Little Falls."

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Sherrill thanked Damiano and the Township Council for their support, help and patience to get the project underway and touted the federal funding, which she said helps keep towns more affordable.

"If we can direct this federal funding into our community, that's less of a burden on our taxpayers," she said. "That's why it's so critically important. It's great to get back that federal funding right here in Little Falls."

Lazzara echoed the sentiment and said the intersection will benefit from the project. She also emphasized that Montclair State University (MSU) borders with the intersection and the installation of the traffic light is important to help keep families, residents and students of Little Falls, including students and staff of MSU safe.

"This is so important," she said. "That's a very dan-

gerous intersection, trying to get from one road to the other."

Lazzara added that Passaic County that Little Falls was the first municipality to adopt the Complete Streets Policy. She thanked Sher-

rill for the initiative of the funding.

"We work hand-in-hand and we know what to work for on every level to keep our neighborhoods safe," Lazzara further added. "Multiple levels of govern-

ment came together today in the interests of our residents. We will make the Clove Road/Long Hill Road intersection a safer crossroad!"

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls Passaic County recently received federal funding totaling $500,000 to improve traffic safety in Little Falls. Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill is pictured with Mayor James Damiano and the Township Council to present the funding and discuss improving traffic safety. Also pictured is Passaic County Commissioner Sandi Lazzara.

Looking to hit Fairways & Greens?

Little Falls Girls Scouts Celebrate Arbor Day with Tree Planting

By Tina Pappas

The Township celebrated Arbor Day on April 26. Under sunny skies, a shade tree was proudly planted in Memorial Park on Wilmore Road during a ceremony led by the local Girl Scouts.

Arbor Day is dedicated annually to public tree-planting in the U.S. and other countries. It's usually observed in late April or early May.

Troop Leader Colleen Larionoff said the shade tree was donated by the Township and included all Little Falls troops comprised of Daisies, Brownies, Juniors and Cadets to assist with its planting.

"Our Little Falls Cadette Girl Scouts Troop 97322 planned the Arbor Day Ceremony, and this is part of a larger effort by Girl Scouts USA called the Girl Scout Tree Promise, which aims to plant 5 million trees across the country," Larionoff explained.

Additionally, Larionoff noted that the sixth grade girls taught the younger Girl Scouts about sustainability and led a craft to upcycle a plastic water into a suncatcher.

Mayor James Damiano, Council President Anthony Sgobba, Councilwoman Christine Habliz, Councilman Mike Murphy and Councilwoman Jayna Patel were on-hand to assist the Girl Scouts in the shade tree-planting. Councilwoman Hablitz commented afterwards.

"I am thrilled to again have organized our Arbor Day celebration with our wonderful Girl Scouts and Shade Tree Commission," she said. "This symbolic Arbor Day planting represents just one of the many trees that the Township plants, and supports private groups in planting each and every year. We know that planting trees not only improves the environment, but also enriches our community and enhances the beauty of our neighborhoods."

Evelyn Chichester, who is a sixth grader and played the National Anthem on flute during the tree-planting ceremony, said the Tank Park section of Memorial Park where the shade tree was planted has been her childhood playground since her earliest memories.

"It's bittersweet to see the changes, but planting the tree on Arbor Day reminded me after all it is still the one and only Tank Park," she said.

Kiera Krietzman, a sixth grader who also led the Girl Scout Promise during the ceremony, echoed the sentiment.

"I was happy to be able to participate by leading the Girl Scout Promise and giving back to my community by helping plant the tree," she explained.

Madelyn Larionoff, also a sixth grader who led the land acknowledgment, said the Girl Scouts have planted trees for Arbor Day every year since they were the Daisies.

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls

The Township of Little Falls celebrated Arbor Day recently with the planting of a shade tree in Memorial Park by the local Girl Scouts on April 26.

"This

Local resident Casey Stolz, said her 9-year-old daughter Avery

"She

'Produce Pete' Visits Little Falls Public Library For New Book Signing

By Tina Pappas

Pete Napolitano, also known as "Produce Pete," visited the Little Falls Public Library for a meet and greet book signing of his award-winning memoir on April 30. Napolitano, a well-known grocer, chef, author, and fruit and vegetable expert, whose popular segments have appeared on WNBC-TV for decades, also gave a discussion about his life to several dozen attendees. He discussed growing up in his Italian-American family in Englewood, and selling fruits and vegetables at his family-owned farmers market as a young boy. He wrote his latest book, They Call Me Produce Pete, with his co-author Susan Bloom.

He also discussed 30 of his favorite recipes and explained why they are so special to him during his visit. His first book, Produce Pete's Farmacopeia, was released in 1993. He said his latest book is more about his personal side and growing up in the produce business.

"I've been 'Produce Pete' for 34 years and this book is more about letting people know who I am, my family background and how I got into produce," he said. "My oldest grandchild, who is now 28, has also always known me as 'Produce Pete,' not Pete Napolitano."

Napolitano also explained how he actually first got into the television, which he called a "fluke." He vividly recalled one day when someone walked into his family's produce store and heard him talking to a customer.

"The person came up to me and said, 'That would make a good segment.' And then I asked, 'What's a segment?'" he quipped. "34 years later, I'm still on and you just don't know how things will go because it's such a fickle business."

As he reflected back, he said he always knew where his expertise lay.

"I knew I was not going to sit in the television anchor's

chair," he added. "I knew produce and that's what I did, and I kept it simple for the audience. I've really enjoyed it."

Napolitano said he always enjoys doing local events as well, like the book signing.

"I like to do local stuff cause I'm a local guy," he explained, adding that when he first got into television, national programs tried to hire him home away from local programming. "The local is where my home base is and that's exactly what happened."

He also said he loves getting feedback on his segments from people and how down-to-earth they realize he is after meeting him.

"I think the biggest compliment is when people say to me that I seem the way I am in real life as I am on television," he noted. "Why wouldn't I be?"

Produce Pete will be visiting the Little Falls Farmers Market this upcoming season on August 4. For more information on the book, They Call Me Produce Pete, visit www.producepete.com.

Jeffrey Machno, Community Engagement Liaison for the Little Falls Public Library, said the library enjoys planning events for its patrons and does whatever it can to stay connected to them.

"Produce Pete and his co-author Susan Bloom were wonderful and kind enough to set this up about two months ago for their new book," he said. "We plan on staying in touch with everybody in-person and on our social media platforms. Follow us on Facebook!"

More photos on page 14

MEDI CENTER PHARMACY

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls Produce Pete visited the Little Falls Public Library for a meet and greet book signing of his award-winning memoir on April 30. He is pictured with his co-author Susan Bloom.

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Patrons of the Little Falls Public Library get the new book, They Call Me Produce Pete, signed by author “Produce Pete” Napolitano.

Produce Pete poses with staff of the Little Falls Public Library on April 30.

The second annual Bike Rodeo event in Little Falls was held on May 4. Pictured is Mayor James Damiano, along with council members and members from the Little Falls Police Department.

By Tina Pappas

The second annual Bike Rodeo event in Little Falls was held on May 4, and brought out cyclists of all ages to enjoy outdoor recreation, while being provided with safety checks for their bikes and helmets.

The event was organized by Councilwoman Christine Hablitz, and was a joint effort between the Little Falls Recreation Department, the Little Falls Township Council and the Little Falls Police Department (LFPD). Also participating in the event was Mayor James Dami-

cont. on page 16

Photo credit: Township of Little Falls

The bike route first started on the obstacle course set up at School 1's playground area. Cyclists then continued through an obstacle course along Walnut Street, Lincoln Avenue, Stanley Street and finished on Ridge Street. The course also included an opportunity for cyclists to see how fast they could go as the LFPD had a radar check on Lincoln Avenue.

Upon completion of the entire course, cyclists then received a certificate from Cpl. Jon Vanak of the LFPD. The Loose Wheel, a full service bicycle company in Cedar Grove, was on-hand doing courtesy bicycle inspection and checks for participants. Mainline Pizzeria, located at 8 East Main Street, donated pizza pies and refreshments for the event.

Hablitz said the goal of the Bike Rodeo is to promote bicycle safety along with the LFPD, while providing a vehicle-free route for cyclists to bike through and enjoy.

"I am proud of again hosting this Bike Rodeo," she added. "I love bringing the community together and promoting bike safety

with this fun and interactive bike rodeo. It educates and encourages residents of all ages to stay active, healthy, and safe while enjoying the outdoors on two wheels."

Tyler Passero, Little Falls Recreation Director, said the Bike Rodeo in its second year was a huge success with about 85 children and adults combined, and is an event that really gets the community involved.

"It's awesome to see everybody here on their bikes on a nice spring day," he said. "We want to thank our sponsors, The Loose Wheel, Sempre Avanti, Avenues in Motion, and The Friends of the Library. I'd also like to thank the Little Falls Police Department for their assistance in today's event."

Passero added that the event provided an opportunity for the LFPD to get involved by interacting with the community and by running radar on the cyclists to make sure everyone was safe.

Local Carl Ziesing brought his two kids to the event. He said it's a wonderful way for families to get out and enjoy themselves.

"It's awesome to see parents and kids riding bikes on

a nice day safely, and all together and building community, while getting healthy exercise in fresh air - what's better than that?" he said.

Ziesing originally pitched the idea to Mayor Damiano several years ago, he added.

"I told him I wanted to do this and he said he would start planning it now," he explained, adding that Mayor Damiano was contacted by Councilwoman Christine Hablitz with the same idea just two weeks earlier. "We started a committee and started putting it together."

He also emphasized that in other states, like California, they run Bike Rodeo events weekly with hundreds of cyclists showing up.

"That's they nice thing about Little Falls. You see the same families with their kids all the time having fun together," he noted.

Ziesing also said Kent Bikes of Fairfield donated a bicycle for raffling, along with two bicycles donated by Sempre Avanti, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide support to all Italians through businesses and associations in the U.S. and Italy. AAA of North Jersey also donated a

Alicia N. Dorman, OD

ano and Councilman Chris Vancheri.

Mayor James Damiano is pictured along with Councilwoman Christine Hablitz and Councilman Chris Vancheri at the second annual Bike Rodeo on May 4.

fourth bike for the raffle. The Friends of the Library were also on-hand to support the event. Nicole Gizzi, along with fellow members Christina Puri and Shannon Zurbruegg, helped to support the event by raffling off

two bicycles and promoting new sign ups for its members. "We're here supporting

this event, along with helping to fund other things for the Little Falls Public Library," she said, adding that

they are currently helping to fund new furniture for the children's section of the library. "We're happy to have

donated two bikes to raffle off because it's is definitely a great event for our community."

Councilman Chris Vancheri is pictured with local residents Justin Puri and his son, Warren, who participated in the second annual Bike Rodeo event in Little Falls was held on May 4.

Autism Awareness

Woodland Park students recently joined together to raise awareness and acceptance of autism. Students at Charles Olbon School, School 1, and the Early Childhood Center lit it up blue and took part in a walk with bubbles and music. Beatrice Gilmore School and Memorial Middle School students joined together for two laps around the field pathway.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WOODLAND PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT

Youth Month

Woodland Park’s annual Youth Month kicked off with a visit from Mayor Tracy Kallert to Memorial Middle School. She described the program and its similarities to running for a real office. Students received descriptions of the jobs they could run for to be elected to by their peers.

“Participants get to learn about how every element of the town works,” Kallert noted, adding that she had served as a Youth Month councilwoman as a student 44 years ago.

Following election day at school, the students selected for the positions had a number of opportunities to see their government in action. On April 19, a tour of the town included stops at Fire Company No. 2, the Department of Public Works, the Board of Education building, the municipal building, the police department, and the first aid squad. On May 13 and May 15, students ran Board of Education and Mayor and Council meetings, respectfully, from the dais. They also got a chance on May 7 to see the Municipal Court in action.

The 2024 Youth Month participants are:

Mayor - Aurelia Astalkoski

Council members - Lola Aspirany, Karim Chaabane, Yasmin Oliva-Sanchez, Tirsa Mena, Nekolaus Saldutti

Municipal Clerk - Zuzanna Siewior

Borough Attorney - Fouad Sada

Police Chief - Sophia Valentin

Fire Chief - Jayde Cleaves Swinger

First Aid Squad Captain - Maritza Guevara

Happy Father’s Day

Chief Financial Officer - Makenzie Maxwell

Tax Collector - Gerardo Sanchez Paredes

Superintendent of Public Works - Yahya Saif

Construction Official - Zuzanna Siewior

Library Director - Lena Vasalevski

Recreation Director - Christian Vazquez

Municipal Judge - Ayleen Zuniga

Superintendent of Schools - Lena Preziosi

Board of Education President - Patty Tiseo

Footprints for Life

The Footprints For Life program has returned to Charles Olbon School. The program, funded by the Woodland Park Municipal Alliance for Alcoholism & Drug Abuse and presented by the Center for Prevention & Counseling, is given over six sessions to all second grade students. Facilitators Tamara Contreras and Rachel Kays use stories and puppets to provide lessons on such topics as sharing feelings using "I"-messages, problem-solving, decision-making, peer pressure, alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, and celebrating our differences.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE BOROUGH OF WOODLAND PARK

Woodland Park Borough recently held its annual Earth Day and Arbor Day celebration with a tree planting near Pridmore Field behind the school. Beatrice Gilmore School fifth grade Influencers joined in to help plant the red maple tree, which they will be able to watch grow as they do. Alfred Baumann Library Children's Librarian Sara Rappa read “What Do You See When You Look at A Tree” by Emma Carlisle to all the students. A copy of the book was donated to the school library.

Superintendent Dr. Michele Pillari has been named Passaic County Superintendent of the Year by the Passaic County Association of School Administrators.

Dr. Pillari has been serving the students of Woodland Park as Superintendent of Schools since 2013. Before coming to Woodland Park, she served in Principal positions in Haledon and North Haledon as well as Director of Curriculum and Instruction in the Wyckoff School District.

“When I started on the Board, I knew there was no confusion as to what was in your heart,” Board of Education member Maryann Perro said. “And in your heart was the safety, education, and the well-being of the students of this district."

"(Dr. Pillari's) main con -

cern has always been the education and the well-being of the students, but not only the students, but the families," she said. "It's nice to be recognized for doing something you love, and we know that this is something you love doing, and you do it with all your heart.”

During her years in Woodland Park, the District has seen immense student improvement on state testing. Dr. Pillari also oversaw the implementation of the District’s Technology Plan, which has resulted in a 1-1 student laptop program and upgrades to internal operating systems. Under her leadership, and working with the Board of Education and administration, the District has remained fiscally responsible to residents with its annual operating budget by providing

Superintendent of the Year

the very best possible for the students with the least amount of financial impact.

"Dr. Pillari is an inspirational leader who truly cares about the entire school community and continuously seeks ways to improve educational opportunities for all students," said Dr. Giovanna Irizarry, District Director of Special Education and Student Support Services. "She has always been extremely supportive and has been committed to helping our staff achieve their personal and professional goals. I am truly honored to work under her leadership as a part of her administrative team. Congratulations!"

Dr. Pillari expressed her gratitude for the recognition.

“I've dedicated my heart and soul to growing this district over the past 10 years,

but I don't do it alone,” Dr. Pillari said. “We have amazing teachers, parents, and board members who support me every step of the way. I'm humbled to receive this award. It's a testament to our collective effort. I'm proud to represent this town and all the incredible students, both here tonight and those not present. I'm grateful to the original board for taking a chance on me, and to everyone who has been part of this journey. We've come a long way together, and this award is a recognition of our collaborative efforts for the benefit of children.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BOROUGH OF WOODLAND PARK

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WOODLAND PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT

Senior Garden

The Woodland Park Seniors have planted their very first vegetable garden this year, thanks to the teamwork of the Senior Club, Boy Scouts, Department of Public Works, Mayor & Council, and Garden Club members. With the help of our local Boy Scouts, who designed and built the garden bed, and the ongoing support of its Garden Club leader Herb, they are all set to nurture this beautiful garden together. Follow the progress on the new "Woodland Park Seniors" Facebook page.

New Computer Repair Shop Opens in Little Falls

on May 18.

By Tina Pappas

Agrand opening ceremony was held for SystMd on May 18. Located at 51 Sindle Avenue, the new computer repair shop offers an array of services for fixing both hardware and software issues.

Local resident and business owner Matthew Longo has been in the field since he was a teen and began providing services in 2017.

"I worked primarily out of my house, and then we made the big step to open at this location around two years ago," he said. "It was a big move and we're very excited about the whole thing."

Longo said everything he learned has been selftaught since the age of 15.

"I started doing this since I was a kid and it's something I always wanted to do in order to help people, " he explained. "We do all types of computer repairs for hardware and software. We manage IT services for Wi-Fi set-ups, including network and printer set-ups. We also do web and graphic design work. We repair any computer or device. We really enjoy what we do, helping our businesses and resi-

Long added that price ranges vary on the repair needed. He added that having his business in Little Falls is a dream come true.

"I grew up here and I'd like to stay in Little Falls, and keep my business here," he noted. "We're affordable and honest. We have a quick turnaround time and we take pride in our work."

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for SystMd by Mayor James Damiano and members of the Township Council. Damiano commented afterwards.

"With everyone relying on computers in the 21st

Century, having quality computer repair locations is critical, " he said. "Having someone who was born and raised in Little Falls makes this business even more close to home."

SystMd hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"Sundays we're closed but we're flexible if anyone wants to drop off their computer, so they are welcomed to do so after hours," Longo added.

For more information, visit systmd.net

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BOROUGH OF WOODLAND PARK

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls

A grand opening ceremony was held for a new computer repair shop SystMd. Pictured is Mayor James Damiano with owner Matthew Longo, Longo's parents, and the Township Council during the ribbon-cutting

Matthew Longo inside his SystMD repair shop. dences."

Woodland Park Borough again celebrated Bring Your Child to Work Day this year. The staff had a great time with the kids at the Municipal Building learning about what their parent's jobs entail, how the town works, and how the town helps people every day. The kids were particularly impressed with the DPW's street sweeper, the

Billy "the Bat Boy" Visits Little Falls Library for Book Signing

By Tina Pappas

Local resident Billy "the Bat Boy" Pinckney was at the the Little Falls Public Library for a special meet and greet book signing on May 14. The Passaic Valley Regional High School (PVHS) and Montclair State University graduate spent over ten years working for the minor league New Jersey Jackals. He is also host of the podcast "Big League Perspectives," and recently authored a book entitled Passion Prevails.

Pinckney said he was inspired to write the book during his experiences learning life lessons from Major League Baseball (MLB) players, coaches and Hall of Famers. His goal was to inspire and give back to the younger generation of athletes. He added that writing the book was defi-

Library's bingo fun, and police and fire interactive demonstrations. It was a great opportunity for staff members to share their workplaces with the kids and give them a glimpse into the important work done. These experiences can spark curiosity and inspire future generations to consider careers in public service.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BOROUGH OF WOODLAND PARK

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls

Local resident Billy “the Bat Boy” Pinckney is pictured at the the Little Falls Public Library for a special meet and greet book signing on May 14. cont. on page 24

Billy “ the Bat Boy”... cont. from page

23

nitely a labor of love.

"The lessons here can be applied to any sport and it's been a passion of mine to help give back to the younger generation, and the kids who are trying to improve their game," he explained. "If you're 12 or 13 years old, in high school, or even in college and this book will help, it's a win!"

Pinckney discussed many of his experiences he details in his book. He reflected on what he missed most about his New Jersey Jackals experience, when he started as a bat boy for the team at the age of 11.

"The main thing I miss is definitely being able to be with the players each day and being around that environment," he replied. "I love working for a team and having that experience of going to the stadium really early before anyone is even there. Seeing the team out there on the field win a game, or lose a game - I definitely miss just being around that!"

He also discussed how many minor and major league ball players have gone on to seize opportunities in many other areas of MLB, noting Craig Breslow, a former relief pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. Breslow completed the 2004 season pitching for the Jackals and was signed by the San Diego Padres in 2005, making his major league debut during that season. He is currently the Chief Baseball Officer of the Boston Red Sox. He also spoke about Jeremy Barnes, a former player for the Jackals, who is now a hitting coach for The New York Mets.

"Last year we went to see The Mets and were able to see him in person," he added. "You soak it all in cause you realize when those guys were at this level in the minor leagues probably thinking about giving up, should I keep playing or is this my last year? Can I afford to do this any longer? And then you see them years later able to make it or be involved in some capacity like coaching. You never know what'll come from it and that's why I'll always treasure each relationship because that's what it's all about. I definitely miss those guys."

Pinckney also spoke of the stress and difficulties players face when they fear they'll wind up a failure if they don't make it. He said it's important for players to find peace even though they might not make it into the big leagues because there are many other opportunities that might arise, such as becoming a coach, becoming a manager, or doing the best

cont. on page 26

to help out the next generation of players.

"There's so much more to life, and there are the accomplishments you've made in your career, including the people you've met," he emphasized. "If my career ended today, I'd just look at this book and see all these people that I've met who have impacted me because that's what this is all about. It's about the relationships and being a good teammate, or just being a good person towards who you're working with or working for."

He also added that in his podcast he discusses ways to help young players become mentally successful. He was also asked about his memories playing Little League base-

ball in Little Falls during the meet and greet session. He responded by saying that playing baseball was the one sport that always meant the most to him and that he has the best memories playing in town and during high school.

"Playing Little League baseball with my friends and growing up with them, you can't really beat that," he said, adding that it's important to not let any other distraction impact a player's joy for their sport. "I played baseball in different areas, and then came back to play in Little Falls. It's a nice way to come full circle at a young age."

Pinckney added that he feels he's been fortunate to learn a lot at an early age. He feels that living in Little Falls

and playing in town, as well as attending MSU, has made a positive impact on his life. He thanked his parents for their support as well.

"This whole area has been really special to me," he added. "It's been a spring board for opportunities, knowing there's a greater way to help out young players. That was the inspiration in trying to impact younger people because I'm always grateful to have had those positive influences for myself."

Passion Prevails by Billy Pinckney is available on Amazon.

Billy “the Bat Boy” Pinckney signs his new book Passion Prevails at the Little Falls Public Library on May 14.

Billy “the Bat Boy” Pinckney holds his new book Passion Prevails alongside his parents and grandmother at the Little Falls Public Library on May 14.

Councilwoman Christine Hablitz and Jeffrey Machno, Community Engagement Liaison for the Little Falls Public Library, are pictured with Billy “the Bat Boy” Pinckney with his new book Passion Prevails.

Little Falls Farmers Market Kicks Off Its Fifth Season

By Tina Pappas

Mayor James Damiano and members of the Township Council held a ribbon-cutting for the opening celebration of the Little Falls Farmers Market, which kicked off on May 19. It is now in its fifth season.

The market aims to support local growers and food producers. It will be held every Sunday, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Oct. 27 at the Little Falls Municipal Building parking lot, located at 225 Main Street. Foot traffic on its opening day topped over 1,000 patrons.

Damiano invites everyone to come by and visit the market, which will feature a huge variety of vendors this year.

"I am so excited for the 2024 Farmers Market here in Little Falls," he said. "So many people have worked so hard to make this market as big and successful as it has become, and this year will no exception."

Michele Kocotos, who is back as the Market Manager this year, echoed the sentiment and said this season has something for everyone.

"We have new vendors this year, along with a lot of returning vendors," she explained. "We're really excited because one of the big ones that we were pushing for was to get a butcher, which we now have. We'll also have coffee every week. We're also excited that we finally scored popcorn."

Kocotos added that she feels this fifth season will be extra special because more people are really learning what the Farmers Market is all about and those who run it feel excited. She also said there's going to be a packed market every week with specials on the lawn.

According to Kocotos, lots of exciting activities and events are also back for the market every week throughout the season, which includes a 20-foot slide for the "Slide into Summer" celebration, where attendees can slide as many times as they like, just in time for Memorial Day Weekend. A dance performance by dancers from Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Montclair will also be retuning.

Some of the returning entertainment is Saxophonist Hunter Hayes. Girl Scouts Sunday and Boy Scouts Sunday is also back. Produce Pete will make his return to the market.

"Produce Pete has said that this is his favorite market," Kocotos emphasized. "We take a lot of pride that he loves coming back to the market every year."

Among the new events slated for the fall is Family Sack Racing Day.

"We also have 'Spotlight DJ' to rev us all up," she added.

Kocotos encourages everyone to bring their lawn chairs, sit and hang out, and have a delicious Sunday meal here with family.

"Just enjoy the vibe for five hours with the rest of us," she said. "We look forward to seeing everybody. The first 80 patrons to visit today will also receive a free market bag."

Little Falls Farmers Market Co-Founder Tanya Seber also commented about the new season and said the market has grown tremendously over the years.

"I'm excited that this is the start of our fifth season," she said. "When Councilwom -

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls

Photo/Caption1: A ribbon-cutting for the opening celebration for the fifth season of the Little Falls Farmers Market kicked off on May 19 with Mayor James Damiano and members of the Township Council pictured.

Little Falls Holds First Ever COVID Ceremony, Plans Permanent Memorial

By Tina Pappas

There were 26 white flags around a tree to honor the memory of the 26 Little Falls residents who have passed away from COVID since the pandemic first broke in 2020. The ceremony marks the first time the Township held a memorial for those victims. It was held at Memorial Park on Wilmore Road on May 17.

The somber ceremony was led by Council President Anthony Sgobba who welcomed Township officials and local residents to the ceremony, including members of the Clifton Health Department (CHD). He thanked Councilman Chris Vancheri and Councilwoman Jayna Patel, who heads the council's public safety committee. He also thanked former Mayor Sam Scheber and local resident Norman Scherzer for facili-

tating the program.

"When COVID started in the state of Washington during a choir practice, two people became sick," Sgobba explained. "They really didn't know what was going on and that was the start of it. When we fast-forward and look at all those souls that we lost, we wonder if government could have done more. It wasn't just one person who died in a household, sometimes it was two or three."

Sgobba also added that the Township looks forward to running the program every year and will work towards putting up a permanent memorial for those who have lost their lives to COVID. He introduced John Biegel, Health Officer Director for the CHD, who discussed the importance of remembering the victims of COVID in Little Falls. "I can tell you from the

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls.

The Township of Little Falls held the first-ever memorial to honor Township residents who have passed away from COVID since the pandemic first broke in 2020. Council President Anthony Sgobba addresses attendees who came to the ceremony.

CHS perspective, they're not just a number. They are individuals with families, friends and neighbors," he said, adding that the CHS began contact tracing, and further trained its staff in

communicable diseases. "We all learned and supported each other. Every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. we were working to try and stop the spread of COVID."

Biegel added that the CHS worked closely with Mayor James Damiano on a daily basis to run numbers and data every day on how many became ill.

"It was not an easy thing to do," he explained, adding that the task at hand was so much more that just giving out statistics. "We wanted to make sure that those cases that were out there were accurate, so we would contact those people. If they did not answer the phone, we would send somebody from our department to go to that house. Again, we were trying to let people know they had COVID and some thought that was a death sentence when they heard it."

Beigel also said that not everybody had that death sentence, even though people became very sick and stayed in the hospital for months and months.

"Unfortunately, we now have 'Long COVID,' whether it be physical or psychological," he further added.

"We're still dealing with it even though we're not in the pandemic anymore, and people are still dying. We had two people in Clifton just last week who were in a nursing home and passed away from COVID."

He also reassured that the CHD has done everything possible to try and stop the spread. He emphasized that the CHD works closely with the Passaic County Department of Heath.

"When the permanent memorial is completed, we hope the families of every one of these white flags that represent those lives lost will know how much the Township of Little Falls really cares and that we did everything we could," he noted.

Biegel thanked Mayor Damiano and the Township Council, the Little Falls Fire Department, Little Falls Police Department, Department of Public Works, the Passaic Valley public school superintendents, and all first responders and individuals who went to work.

"They're all heroes - everybody who maintained as we went," he said.

CHD Health Educator Layal Helwani also

spoke during the ceremony. She described her experiences as one of the leads in Little Falls for case investigations for COVID.

"The purpose of this memorial first and foremost is to honor the 26 souls that we lost in Little Falls due to COVID," she said. "We remember their faces, their stories and the impact that they had on the world."

She also said the purpose is to recognize the resilience and strength shown by so many during the pandemic, such as the front line workers who kept the communities running, including many community members who stepped up, showing countless acts of compassion and solidarity. Although it was a very challenging time, she added "the best of humanity shined during the darkest moments."

"And so this memorial is to also reflect on their dedication and selflessness," she said.

Helwani also added that no amount of training could've prepared the CHD for what was coming, and referred back to March 20, 2020 when the CHD received its first confirmed

Little Falls Farmers...

from page 27

an Christine Hablitz and I started this market five years ago we didn't see ourselves here today and growing so much."

Seber added that the market has seen vendors double in five years and more than triple customer participation. She also said she and Hablitz wanted to start the market in order to create a sense of community in Little Falls and really help support local artisans.

"Bringing fresh produce to the area and courting businesses that are women-owned, minority-owned, etc. and to really bring it to Little Falls," she noted. "It's all about bringing a better sense of community."

Among the returning vendors this year is Anita's Guacamole, Bijou Greens, Cousins Maine Lobster, Doughboy on the Rise, Ethan and the Bean, Flounder Brewing Co., Gittel's Challah Shoppe, Hidden Brook, High Mountain, Jersey Pickles, Jersey Spirits, Joy Filled Crepes (bubble waffles), Lulu's Lemonade, Montclair Brewery, LLC, NJ South Hills Pet Rescue, Norie's Nummy's, Paolo's Kitchen, Rosie's Empanadas, Under Oak, The Soupeteer, Sweet Nana's Jamalade, The Lentil Co., and Woodlawn Refills.

Schieferstein Farms is back this year as the produce vendor this season and has served Clark and the surrounding communities for over a century. The family-owned and operated small, local business offers "Jersey Fresh" produce, with fruits and vegetables that were picked as recently as the day before.

Making their market debut is Amazing Fungi and Greens/Amazing Sourdough, Ancients Coffee Co., Coop's Cones, Macamochi, Queen Honey, Refresh N Flourish By Nature, See The Glow, Tyler's Argentinian Corner, Violante & Son, Stix and Stones, and Popcorn for the People

Kocotos encouraged everyone to attend this year and to spread the word.

"Tag us on Facebook when you're here because it's just lets us know that you visited us," she noted. "We love it when people stop by and end up having a great time."

Kocotos also invited those inquiring about the market to visit and follow the Little Falls Farmers Market on Facebook every Friday at 4 p.m. for all upcoming events for that Sunday. Kocotos will also hold interviews in her "Talking Farmers Market" every Friday at 4 p.m. to be featured on the page.

Little Falls Holds First Ever...

cont. from page 28

case in the Township

Sgobba concluded saying that COVID can happen again.

"Maybe not COVID but it could be something else in the future," he said, and thanked everyone for attending.

Pictured (from left) is LF Farmers Market Manager Michele Kocotos, Former Councilwoman and LF Farmers Market Co-Founder Tanya Seber, and Councilwoman and LF Farmers Market Co-Founder Christine Hablitz.

of Little Falls.

Little Falls Holds First-Ever Mental Health Awareness Flag Raising Ceremony

By Tina Pappas

As part of Mental Health Awareness

Month, the Township of Little Falls raised its first-ever mental health awareness flag in front of the municipal building on May 18. May was first designated as Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949 with the goal to increase awareness of mental illness and wellness.

Councilman Chris Vancheri led the ceremony and thanked those in attendance. Councilwoman Christine Hablitz and Councilwoman Jayna Patel were also on-hand to support the initiative. Vancheri said the Township will continue to have a variety of events throughout the town during the month. He said that Mental Health Awareness Month has been a cornerstone of addressing millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. He added that for a long time, it was a topic that many people didn't want to talk about.

"If you had a family member or a friend suffering you tried to not really say much," he explained. "But now there is so much in terms of services and resources available. Hopefully, people are getting the help that they need because I think we all know someone who has been impacted by this disease. Anything that we could do to help, we should do it."

Vancheri also said that throughout the month, organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) actively participate in a national movement dedicated to eradicating the stigma, extending support, fostering public education, and advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being of individuals and families that are affected by mental illness. The organization has become the nation's leading voice on mental health since 1979.

Vancheri introduced Roger Schwab, a local representative from NAMI who discussed mental illness and

zation's mission is to help anyone who is in need of support.

"It's whether you're someone with a mental illness or taking care of someone with an illness who needs assistance," Schwab explained. "We do that in three basic ways - with our support groups, educational programs and events. We also advocate for a better mental health system and work with legislators to have better access to the mental health system."

Schwab further added that NAMI is multicultural and offers those programs in a variety of native languages.

mental illness awareness. Shcwab, who has been an advocate for over 20 years, said his experience with a family member prompted him to become an advocate. He also works with other organizations dedicated to mental awareness, such as the Mental Health Association of Passaic County and family services, that also do great work.

NAMI is the largest mental health organization in America," he said, adding that there are over 700 affiliates nationwide and with 19 county affiliates in New Jersey. "I work with the local one here in Passaic County and our mission is fighting stigma."

He also added that the statistics for mental illness are "staggering" with one in 5 adults in the U.S. diagnosed with a mental disorder and one out of 20 with severe mental disorder, which can encompass schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses that are disabling. He also said the organi-

"Everything we do is free, including all of our educational programs and events. We are strictly a volunteer organization," he noted. "Hopefully, we can get the school system on board as well, and offer many pro-

grams to residents."

Local resident Allison Caratozzolo was also in attendance in order to support mental health awareness.

"I'm very happy the town decided to do this and host

For more information on NAMI, visit NAMI.org.

Photo credit: The Township of Little Falls

The Township of Little Falls raised its first-ever mental health awareness flag in front of the municipal building on May 18. Pictured is Councilman Chris Vancheri who led the ceremony.

a mental health awareness flag raising ceremony," she said.

By Richard Mabey Jr.

A Father’s Day Story

t was the dawn of June of 1972. My college final exams were coming upon me. I was just finishing up my freshman year at County College of Morris. My beloved girlfriend, Penny Lancaster, had most recently told me that she was planning on attending Rutgers University in September. Originally, Penny had planned on attending CCM, so that we could see each other more often. Penny was a kind, sweet, thoughtful, intelligent young woman. We had begun dating in the beginning of my senior year at Boonton High School. It all weighed heavily upon my mind.

In addition to attending classes at CCM, I also worked at the A&P in Whippany. It was a Saturday afternoon in early June and I was scheduled to

work the night crew from 11 o’clock at night till seven in the morning. Dad and I were working at his workbench in the basement of the old Mabey Homestead. I think that we were building a birdhouse. I am 90 percent sure that is the project we were working on. I had planned on taking a nap at about four that afternoon, before driving off to the old A&P.

As we were cutting pieces of plywood, I remember that we heard the meowing of a cat. I remember this like it was yesterday, and not over 50 years ago.

As soon as Dad heard the call of this cat, who was now sitting at the open doorway of the cellar, he looked at his watch.

“Three o’clock. My little friend’s just on time,” Dad said with a certain joyful glee in his voice.

Then I remember Dad walked over to the old bookcase that stood against the cellar wall, opposite of Dad’s workbench. Dad walked over to the old bookcase that was filled with canned goods. He took a little can of sardines and opened it up, and walked over to the cute little gray cat, still meowing to my dear father.

On a little table, beside the cellar door, Dad scooped out the sardines onto a little bowl that he had on a shelf by the cellar door. He put the sardine-filled bowl down in front of the adorable little cat.

“Here you go, my little friend,” I remember Dad saying to this cute little gray cat.

A smile filled my father’s face as he watched the little cat eat the sardines. It

New Installation at Laurelwood Arboretum Sculpture Trail

Friendship, made up of five 12-foot totems by sculptor Fitzhugh Karol, is the newest Sculpture Trail installation at Laurelwood Arboretum. It stands tall in the Grass Garden at location #3 of the Sculpture Trail. The totems were carved from pine logs sourced from forests in East Hampton, New York. The logs were laid horizontally and carved with a chainsaw. They were inspired by the simple beauties of the natural and constructed world and call to mind the silhouettes of landscapes, both real and imagined.

Karol is a Brooklyn, New York-based sculptor whose work ranges from large scale outdoor installations to intimate tabletop pieces. He sculpts in wood, metal, and clay to fashion works that explore man’s imprint on the landscape and creates playful spaces that become an inviting and unconventional way to experience art. One of his bestknown works is Approach, installed at the beginning of the Mario M. Cuomo bridge path in Rockland County, New York. The sculpture utilizes steel from both the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge and its predecessor, the Tappan Zee.

A Sculpture Trail at Laurelwood Arboretum, a multiyear project that showcases 15 unique works of art, is sponsored by Friends of Laurelwood Arboretum to benefit the arboretum. A Sculpture Trail is curated by Scott A. Broadfoot of the Broadfoot & Broadfoot gallery in Boonton, NJ. All the sculptures are available for purchase, with a percentage of the proceeds donated to the Friends organization to be applied towards capital improvements.

To follow the progress of A Sculpture Trail installations on Instagram go to https:// www.instagram.com/laurelwoodsculpturetrl/ Friends of Laurelwood Arboretum is a non-profit conservancy whose mission is to preserve and manage the 30-acre arboretum in partnership with Wayne Township. For additional information about A Sculpture Trail or the Friends organization, go to www. laurelwoodarboretum.org.

Where A Father's Day Story... cont. from page 32

was a side of my dear old Dad that I had never quite seen before. After the little cat ate all of the sardines, Dad petted him on the head. The dear little cat moved one of his little paws upon Dad’s hand, as if to say thank you to my father for giving him such a special supper. The little cat then came into the cellar and walked around as if he owned the place.

It’s funny. In that little moment of time, my worries about my upcoming final exams, my anxieties about dealing with my less than kind coworker at the A&P, and my concerns for Penny going to Rutgers, all seemed to melt away.

Dad returned to his workbench. We worked some more on our birdhouse project. About four o’clock, Dad told me that I should go upstairs and get some sleep before I went

to work that night. And, I did just that.

I remember that my sister and I bought my father a brand new jigsaw for Father’s Day that year. We had both been saving up for quite a while.

Now at 70 and fighting a serious heart condition, I look back at that Saturday afternoon, with both joy and sadness. A big part of me wants to go back in time, to return to that early June Saturday of 1972 and have just a half-hour to spend with my dear father, at his old rugged basement workbench. But my time machine is broken.

My father served as Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 170 for 30 years. He was a certified Lay Leader of the Methodist Church. For over a decade, he taught God and Country classes at the First Reformed Church of Lincoln Park. In

his job, as a long-distance truck driver, he brought New York City their big, tall Christmas Tree, for over 25 years. Most of the time, Dad hauled the big evergreen from the State of Maine.

Despite all of these worthwhile accomplishments, tonight, as I write this little true-life story, I reflect upon the man who fed sardines to a little gray cat, at his cellar door. I miss my Dad. If your father is still on this side of Heaven’s Gate, tell him you love him.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.

A rare photograph of my beloved father at his old basement workbench.

God Loves You More Than You Will Ever Know!

By Richard Mabey Jr.

It is when we feel defeated, down-trodden, saddened, or depressed, is just the time that we need to dig deep within ourselves, to bounce back with a greater inner strength. No matter how dismal things may look, the one thing that none of us can afford to do, is to give in to feelings of defeat and surrender. No matter how grim a situation may look, we still need to look for hope, faith and inward encouragement.

God loves you more than you will ever know. God’s love is infinite. It knows no boundaries. God’s love for you, is the love that brings the peace that passes all understanding. Hold dearly to this truth. Hold fast to the principle that the Divine One, who created the universe, deeply cares about your well being.

Since September of last year, I have been to three different cardiologists, in search of treatment for my Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. I want to be very sensitive here. The three doctors that I went to, at different times, were all very sincere. I believe they were doing their very best to help me with my HCM. But the hard, cold truth is that they did not really have the specialization of working with treatments for HCM. It was not their fault. HCM affects one in 500 people. So, the average cardiologist does not come across a lot of patients with HCM.

I prayed and prayed and prayed to find a doctor who was very well versed in treating HCM. I never gave up. I focused my energies into deep prayer. I held steadfast focus. The kind of focus that a soldier might hold in heart and mind, just before facing a battle.

As if the odds were a million to one, the door opened for me to be seen by a cardiologist at the University of Florida Medical Center (Shands) who specialized in treating patients with HCM. My specific classification of HCM is known as Apical HCM. It requires very, very specific treatments and prescription meds. And, yes, the meds are rather expensive.

Am I out of the woods now? Not by a long stretch. But with my new prescription meds, I have been getting less and less chest pains. I’m not as easily winded. Yes, I still do get chest pains. But they are not as frequent as they once were. And now, I can walk around the block, without getting overwhelmingly winded. I’m making some degree of progress to getting back on track.

I am convinced, without a shadow of a doubt, that the door that opened to my getting treatment at UF Med Center, was the result of deep prayers, holding steadfast faith, and persevering with a laser-focused energy on finding a path to healing.

Know this: God loves you more than you will ever know. Miracles really do happen. Prayer is the key to unlocking the doors that are holding you back. A deep belief in a miracle, coming to you in your life, is essential for supernatural events to unfold. Hold deeply to this golden truth: God loves you more than you will ever know. Pray, pray, pray and then pray even more for a miracle to come into your life.

Truly, expect a miracle to come into your life!

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.