Randolph January 2023

Roxbury Resident—Morris County Sheriff ’s Office Detective Corporal Michael McMahon—and K-9 Kai’s Special Bond

By Alexander Rivero

2020’s title of “America’s Top Dog” belongs to New Jersey, specifically to Roxbury natives Dt. Cpl. Michael McMahon and his trusted K-9, Kai.

The two took top prize at A&E Network’s “America’s Top Dog” competition, which was televised from Santa Clarita, CA in March of 2020. McMahon and his then 4-year-old partner beat out six of the country’s most impressive K-9 teams to secure the grand prize of $25,000—which, was given to a non-profit animal welfare organization that specializes in caring for retired police dogs.

Two years after securing the prize, McMahon is honored to have been a part of it all, as well as to have been able to compete with such great teams from across the nation. He is also thankful for the work and sacrifices his wife and children made throughout the time it took to train Kai and bring him up to top form.

McMahon traces his professional work with dogs back to his infancy. He had golden retrievers as a kid, which he trained himself, and by the time he had graduated high school he had started volunteering with local animal shelters.

“I thought I wanted to go and be a vet,” McMahon recalls. He started towards that end goal, taking classes at County College of Morris (CCM), but while there he found a school for dog training, and the rest is history.

He enrolled, became a professional dog trainer, and before long had started his own business with his wife. The couple offered a range of training services—including training and developing dogs for police K-9 units and for personal protection. Throughout all of this, he was selling dogs to area police departments. It was during this time—in 2011—that Morris County Sheriff ’s Office gave him a call.

“I got hired for that track, specifically for the K-9 unit,” he says.

As of this writing, McMahon is the supervising trainer for Morris County’s entire K-9 unit, which includes 13 dogs. He assists a dozen or more police K-9s, as well as other units. On

average, he estimates that he works with anywhere between 50 and 100 teams in a given year.

How difficult is it to train a dog? McMahon assures us that it all starts from a strong foundation, which is key.

“Foundation is extremely important. When the dogs are between nine months to a year old, we purchase them from a vendor in the Netherlands or Germany. We don’t have down time with them. They’re immediately paired with their respective handlers.”

After the initial pairing, the trainer/K-9 teams the emphasis is all on encouraging strong bonding.

“We make sure the dogs are enjoying what they’re doing,” says McMahon. “And in order for them to want to do what we’re training them to do, they need their rewards. So we start with food rewards, and shift over to toy rewards afterwards.”

If the dog is going to be immediately trained in a detection capacity, the process will last roughly between three and four months. Whereas if they are being trained for patrol capacity, the process is six months. A dual training regiment, when all is said and done, will take the dog and trainer about a year to complete to satisfaction. This is followed by an academy class, where they are brought on the road with senior officers and trainers. Finally, once the dogs show that they are ready, they go out to work their respective posts.

“I got Kai at seven weeks,” says McMahon, “and I started training him immediately. By the time he was two, he had two years of solid training. That’s perfect, because we prevent any negative traits from coming about. Working with puppies is optimal, but it’s not always possible.”

McMahon identifies the most challenging component of his job as the training itself, which he admits is intense. The most common misconception of his world is that the officers are “hanging out” with their dogs. He assures us that this is not the case.

“As that dog’s trainer you are absolutely committed to him 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. And the

McMahon and Kai on set of “America’s Top Dog.” March, 2020.

skills are perishable. It’s a non-stop effort to keep the dogs sharp, especially when they have to respond to dangerous calls such as violent offenders or explosives.”

He also says that the best part of being a K-9 trainer is the variety of things he sees on the job on any given day.

“The type of calls you respond to really varies,” he says. “I’ve worked Superbowl’s, PGA Tours, as well as interesting calls within the county itself. It’s a very interesting job, very involved within the community. And everyone loves the K-9s.”

For more information on the Morris County Sheriff ’s Office K9 unit, please visit the office’s website at www. morriscountynj.gov/Departments/Sheriff.

Sometimes people need to replace missing teeth or teeth that will be extracted shortly. Bridges, dentures, and implants are the most common ways to accomplish this, but what are the differences?

The most common area of confusion lies

between dentures and bridges. Dentures are removable: you take them in-and-out of your mouth. Bridges are permanent: you do NOT take them in-and-out.

Dentures can be made from a number of different materials: acrylic (plastic), metal, a combination of acrylic and metal, or “thermoplastic.” The advantages of the acrylic include cost and simplicity. They are the least expensive, and the easiest to fabricate and repair. The disadvantages include thickness and low stability.

Metal dentures are thin, rigid, and fit tightly. The downsides include increased difficulty to repair (although not terribly difficult) and cost (they are the most expensive).

Thermoplastic materials have the advantage of being flexible, which many patients find to be more comfortable. However, repairs can be difficult to impossible, based upon the type of material utilized.

Unlike dentures that are removable, bridges are permanent. This is one reason why bridges are more popular than dentures. Other advantages include increased biting / chewing power, increased

esthetics, and less fuss with them since they don’t have to be taken in and out. Downsides include the “shaving down” of teeth on either side of spaces to keep them in place (called “abutment” teeth), and potential cavity development or need for root canals on these abutments over time.

Dental implants provide a host of options. Most people think of an implant as a post that is placed into the jawbone to hold a single tooth (crown). This is one use of an implant, but there are other functions. The implant is actually the post: you can use it to secure a denture or a bridge, also! With respect to dentures, the implant can help to eliminate or decrease the number of clasps, providing a more esthetic outcome and more stable set of teeth. Bridges benefit from implants because now you cannot develop cavities around the abutments and there is no need for root canals. Implant bridges also eliminate the need for drilling on other teeth.

A very common substitute or replacement for large partial dentures and full dentures is “All-On-Four®.” This revolutionary technology provides the patient with permanent, non-removable teeth in just

a few appointments. Gone is the stigma and disappointment of removable teeth and poor chewing ability. Patients instantly benefit from a strong bite, excellent smile, and freedom of re-gaining the roof of their mouths if they had a denture that covered it previously. Many patients who have dentures or require removal of most teeth present to Dr. Goldberg for this procedure specifically: he is a leading authority on this type of procedure within the community.

More information regarding this, and other topics, is available on our website.

Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist & implant expert located in the Roxbury Mall in Succasunna, NJ. He provides general dentistry for the entire family, including: cleanings, check-ups, whitening, veneers, crowns, root canals, dentures, periodontal (gum) services, dental implants, and much more. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Implantology/Implant Dentistry, holds multiple degrees and is recognized as an expert in dental implants. You can find additional information on his website:www. morriscountydentist.com. The office can be reached at: 973-328-1225 or via email: frontdesk.mcda@gmail.com

General

Dentistry

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Cannot be combined with other discounts Refer to New Patient Specials on our website for details Coupon must be presented, & mentioned at time of scheduling Expires 2/28/23

Preschool Advantage Annual Gala Funds Tuition for 40 Children

reschool Advantage, a Morristownbased non-profit organization, held its 2022 annual Turning Leaves benefit dinner at Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park on October 12th. After a two-year hiatus, the event returned with great energy fueled by guest emcee Guy Adami of CNBC’s “Fast Money,” who challenged the 250 attendees to give generously in support of this important cause. They took note, raising over $200,000 to fund preschool tuition for children in our community. The event was sponsored by the William T. & Marie J. Henderson Foundation with additional support from Hackensack Meridian Health, Private Advisor Group, Wiley Malehorn Sirota & Raynes, and several other individual donor-sponsors.

At this year’s event, Preschool Advantage honored its 11 past board presidents. Under their selfless leadership, the nonprofit has sent 1,300 local children to preschool since 1995. Special recognition was given to trustee, Gail Reuther for her 40 years

as director at Mount Olive Child Care & Learning Center, a partner preschool of the Organization. Preschool Advantage Executive Director, Nancy Bangiola noted, “Gail has generously shared her decades of experience and expertise in early childhood education with Preschool Advantage. Her peers recognize her a leader in the field, and we consider ourselves very lucky to have benefitted from her wisdom for so many years.”

Preschool Advantage also recognized a local family whose twin daughters attend preschool with a grant from the Organization. The twins’ mother, Jillian, remarked “The cost of preschool turned out to be one of our biggest challenges.” Expressing gratitude to the supporters in attendance, Jillian shared that her daughters are thriving and will be ready for kindergarten in the fall. “It has been an extraordinary journey watching our children learn and grow,” she said with great emotion.

Jillian (left) and Hector (right), Preschool Advantage parents with Nancy Bangiola, Preschool Advantage Executive Director (center). Photo by Baseline Productions

I’m Referring to Your Genes Not Your Jeans

mean you should probably change your jeans every few days as well, but that’s a discussion for another time and another day.

You have probably been taught that the genes you are born with are yours for life. You excuse things like your angry behaviors, high blood pressure or your weight on your genetics. My patients often tell me that their illnesses are genetic, and because of that they can’t do anything about it. What if I told you that isn’t completely true? What if I told you that changing the way you think can actually change your life? That might sound like fantasy to some, but it’s true! I know, I know… now you feel like you’ve been living a lie, but it’s time to wake up!! Check this out… Research shows that those who practice Meditation/Yoga can “steer” their DNA, reducing inflammation and reducing their risks for diseases like cancer.

You may be asking how in the heck is that possible? Let’s break it down…

Our bodies have a sympathetic nervous system and a parasympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) aka “fight or flight” response is

activated by stressful situations. Historically this fight or flight response was needed for survival in the wild. For example, when being chased by an animal the SNS kicks in and all functions that are not needed for immediate survival (i.e digestion…) are shut down. Among other processes, the body speeds up, heart pumps faster, the muscles contract and the brain is more alert. Activating the SNS also triggers the production of a molecule called Nuclear factor Kappa b (NF-Kb), which is responsible for our gene expression. During this process NF-Kb activates genes that release cytokines. These cytokines are responsible for producing inflammation on a cellular level. During a life/death event this is actually helpful short -term. However, in modern day life this same sequence of events occurs due to every-day stressors (that weren’t present in our early ancestors lives). Things like traffic, work-related stress and finances trigger this same “fight or flight” response, causing the same cascade of events that lead to increased NF-Kb and increased release of cytokines. In fact, just thinking about that stressful situation you had earlier will cause the same cascade of events to take place. Most people in today’s society

are living in a constant “fight or flight” state. This longterm “exposure” to these cytokines are linked to cancer, premature aging, mental disorders (including anxiety and depression) and other diseases.

On the other hand, it has been found that practicing yoga/meditation activates the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). The PNS, known as the “rest and digest” state, is the way that the body should be functioning normally. In this natural state, the heart rate slows down, blood pressure decreases and digestion takes place. Studies show that practicing Meditation/Yoga, specifically, reduce NF-Kb, therefore turning off the genes that release the cytokines, which in turn reduces the inflammatory response and therefore prevents premature aging and diseases like cancer. This is all happening on the molecular level! You can actually leave a molecular signature on your cells to regulate your own gene expression! Boom… and there you have it! Now all you have to do is start Meditating to experience the benefits for yourself!

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

Remembering A Special Man

By Megan Roche

It’s a beautiful time of year. Families are gathered together to celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, and the dawn of a new year. But for some, it’s a time to grieve the person who isn’t there.

On December 5, I lost my grandfather, Papa John. He was a beautiful soul who served his country with pride in the US Army while stationed in Vietnam. He was a devoted husband to my Oma, a wonderful father to my aunt Kristina and my stepdad Keith. But to me, my brother, and my cousins Madelyn and Brianna, he was Papa.

There are so many beautiful memories that Papa and I share together. Who else would I love to spend time with wandering the streets of Colonial Williamsburg (his ultimate happy place)? Who else would I rather be with on a Sunday during football season watching the New York Jets play? Who else would enjoy sitting in his chair with his cowboy movies and a phone at the ready for a day full of playing solitaire? That was my Papa.

Grief is a very funny thing. Everyone goes through the motions but not at the same time. On the day that my beloved Papa passed away, I was here in Williamsburg, Virginia. One thing my grandpa loved was

long walks down Duke of Gloucester Street. I visited his favorite candy shop, bought his favorite sugar free candy, found a bench in front of the Governor’s Palace, and ate them. I felt his presence there with me as I made my peace with his passing.

As the days have slowly started to move past, I’ve learned so much about my grandfather that I didn’t know. I guess I understand now that my love of Christmas is from him. My grandmother shared with me that if he could celebrate Christmas every day, he would. This Christmas, as hard as it is without him, I am going to celebrate bigger than I ever had. I want to honor his memory with Christmas music, his favorite holiday movies, and carry on the traditions that he started so many years ago.

There will be days ahead where I will hear one of his favorite songs or visit one of his favorite places that I’m sure will affect me. But it’s okay to cry. How could you not cry after losing a special man? But I know too that he wouldn’t want me to sit here and cry, but to continue to live my life and give to others the way that he would have. He would not want our family to wallow in pity, but instead pour a glass of Drambuie, eat a slice of apple pie and smoke a cigar for him.

Even through this grief, the holiday season this year will continue. If anything, this loss

has reminded all of us in my family that life is short and to treasure every minute that you get to spend with those who are close to you. That’s exactly what Christmas this year will be, not a time of sadness, but a time to celebrate all those who are here together and recount all the Christmas memories of past holiday seasons that were spent with my Papa.

Papa, you will always be an important member of our family and your legacy will live on in all of us. We’re taking care of things down here on Earth, but I know you can see that, for you have the best seat in the house. We miss you beyond words, but we will continue to honor you and the incredible man that you were. Until we meet again one day in Heaven.

A family Thanksgiving with our patriarch, John Nitka. Pictured with him are his grandson Daniel, granddaughter Madelyn, granddaughter Brianna, and granddaughter Megan

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Montville’s Debut Author Creates Charming Children’s Book in Honor of Beloved Nanny

By Emily Pirrello

As the celebrated saying goes, “grandparents hold our hands for just a little while, but our hearts forever.”

Robin C. Di Leo-Banta was very close with her Great Grandmother Maria “Nanny” Mollica, she treasured her time with her great-grandmother and decided during the COVID-19 Pandemic shutdown that she wanted to create a literary legacy dedicated to her dear Nanny. Robin’s award-winning debut children’s novel, “Giuseppe, My Mischievous Goat!” is a heartwarming homage to her Nanny, Maria.

This captivating tale follows the story of an Italian grandmother, Nanny Maria, who awakes one morning to discover that her beloved goat, Giuseppe has gone missing.

“When the mischievous goat Giuseppe goes astray, his Nanny, Maria, must leave her mountaintop village to find him. On her journey, she discovers a community of people who help her along the way. Unbeknownst to her, little Giuseppe has all his needs met by the generous people

along the way who help him until he is reunited with his Nanny.”

When asked what she hopes her readers will take away from her story, Di Leo-Banta shared, “the importance of family.”

“These memories I’d like to share with my kids, and someday with their kids, all the times she spent teaching me skills I carried throughout my life. And of course, a warm homage to our Italian heritage.”

Like many during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Di Leo-Banta found herself reflecting on her life and what she valued most in the world, her family.

“During the shutdown of the COVID-19 pandemic, I sat daily listening to the news awaiting our fate as a nation. I started thinking about my Nanny Maria and what she meant to me as a child.”

Di Leo-Banta continued to share about her own childhood with her Nanny, Maria, “I would assist her in cooking family meals as she taught me at an early age to make meatballs. I could barely reach the table and would stand atop the highest step of her rickety old stool. She seasoned by hand without measure and always cooked with love.”

During the uncertainty of the shutdown, Di Leo-Banta felt her beloved greatgrandmother encourage her to write.

“She guided me on this journey, she

was my voice of reason in a time of chaos.

‘I envelop you with my love’ I would hear her say in the middle of the night. What a continued on page 9

Children’s Book...

comfort knowing how loved I was by her. ‘Write,’ she said to me…. ‘Just write.’”

Di Leo-Banta went on to share that she didn’t know where to begin or how to start but she knew she wanted to create a story to pass on the wisdom of her cherished Nanny Maria.

“Her generosity as a human being and the time she devoted to me as a child is a standard which we all should live up to.”

As many would agree, family heritage and traditions are so very important.

Di Leo-Banta reminisced to some of her favorite childhood memories, “We’d gather every Sunday after church and eat together with our large family. I’d run to the local Italian store to pick up the fresh ricotta and Italian bread for our weekly gatherings. Now my kids’ favorite treats they request every Christmas Eve.”

While writing, Giuseppe, My Mischievous Goat!, she wasn’t quite sure where the story was headed— “As I struggled with an ending, my Nanny came to me again and said, “this story ends where yours began, in church!”

She went on to share her initial wariness about this, “I was uncertain about keeping this part in the book. I didn’t want to

exclude anyone, but again, this is who I am, and my fondest memories are of those we spent as a family every Sunday after church. These memories I’d like to share with my kids, and someday with their kids.”

Di Leo-Banta valued “all the times her Nanny Maria spent teaching her skills as a child,” and she has always “carried them throughout her life.”

Although this is Di Leo- Banta’s debut novel, she shared that she’s always enjoyed writing. “I used to write riddles or quick little poems as teaching points for my kids when they were young.” Admirably this charming children’s book has already received an Honorable Mention award from Writer’s Digest.

Don’t worry young readers! This is not the last you’ve seen of Giuseppe. Robin shared that she’s currently working on her next Giuseppe adventure, “Giuseppe Chews My Shoes”. As Di Leo-Banta playfully shared, “My Nanny taught me about well-made shoes too.”

Giuseppe, My Mischievous Goat! is available on Amazon and online at Barnes and Noble. Don’t forget to also keep an eye out for Giuseppe’s upcoming journeys!

From

Local Soccer Stars Celebrate Rutgers Men’s Soccer First Big Ten Tourney Title

By Steve Sears

the Rutgers Scarlet Knights men’s soccer team won their first ever Big Ten Tournament title in November, a 3 – 1 victory over the Indiana Hoosiers, defensemen Bryan Keating of Pompton Lakes and Chris Tiao of Randolph were a part of the club that made history.

When

The tournament championship is the first for any Rutgers men’s sport since joining the conference, and the third overall for Rutgers athletics. The final contest was held at Rutgers Yurcak Field before over 4,200 people.

Keating, a sophomore who during high school played for Cedar Stars Bergen soccer club, says, “This was kind of a unique tournament for us. Last year, we played Indiana in the first game of the Big Ten Tournament, and we ended up losing to them. For every game of this tournament, we felt confident going in. This is the best team I’ve ever played on with all the talent. There was no real nervousness, just excitement.”

Tiao, a senior, who was named to the All B10 Tournament Team, has an impressive soccer resume. During his senior year at Randolph High School, he played for the Red Bulls II team in the United Soccer

League and the Everton Westchester FC. He also scored the go-ahead goal in the semifinal matchup against Ohio State. “We were playing on our home field, so we knew we had a very good chance of winning,” he says of the Indiana matchup. “It’s where we play, and we’d have a good atmosphere with our fans. It was a windy day, but we all were confident together that we could all play well and do what we needed to do.”

After the teams went into the locker room at half time knotted at 1 – 1, the Scarlet Knights Ola Maeland scored the game winner off a corner kick, and Ian Abbey scored the third goal which cemented the win. “Definitely after Ola scored that goal straight from the corner kick was a big, big morale boost,” Tiao says. “We all thought we just had to hold on for the win, and then Ian scored in the 85th minute, and that kind of cemented the win for us. It was just a great feeling, to have a 3 – 1 lead and knowing that we were going to win it.”

As the final horn sounded, Keating says the feeling as unreal. “It’s the biggest win I’ve ever been part of. All the work that we put in during the season paid off.”

The Knights finished the 2022 season with a 10-5-6 overall record.

Keating, a sectional champion pole

vaulter in high school for the Pompton Lakes Cardinals, also followed in his parents’ footsteps. Both were athletes at Rutgers University. His dad, Stephen, was a pole vaulter for the Knights track and field squad, and his mom, Anne, competed in the heptathlon.

Keating is looking forward to his junior year. “We have a lot of eyes on us now, and hopefully we’ll get new recruits that are quality players to replace those that are

leaving,” he says. “And I think that there’s no reason why we couldn’t be as good a team if not better next year.”

Tiao, who is eligible to play a fifth season in 2023, says, “It’s amazing. I’ve been here all four years, and we haven’t had much success before in the Big Ten Tournament. And so, once that whistle blew and especially after winning, and hearing that huge crowd here, it was just a good moment for our whole team.”

Bryan Keating

Chris Tiao

Randolph Native, Lea Sevola, Lands Leading Role in Legally Blonde

By Jeff Garrett

Randolph native, Lea Sevola, continues to blaze a hot trail in the acting world as she tours the country playing Vivienne Kensington in the stage production of Legally Blonde True to form, Sevola takes this role as seriously as she has so many others in her career, even those overseas while touring Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Egypt where she sought out roles others may have been frightened to pursue, all in the hope of using a specific character to change the lives of others.

It is no secret that women’s roles in the aforementioned countries is quite defined and restrictive. In her brief time acting overseas, she wanted to turn heads and change thinking in her roles.

“Theatre’s unique ability to appeal to the human experience and to promote empathy gives it the potential to help exact real change. A huge goal in my career is to continue to see how my work can advance social justice causes and impact the world for the better,” Sevola says.

Sevola’s achieving a microcosm of this

Kidz

– or big microcosm if you will - in Legally Blonde by challenging Kensington to reach the limits and some in her character’s design and appeal.

Sevola, a product of Randolph Middle School and High School, County College of Morris (CCM) and Ithaca College, seeks out female empowerment roles, and savors the transformation Kensington undergoes between the first and second acts.

“To me Vivienne starts out severe, rigid and unyielding for a reason – she has a set plan for her life and career so anyone who gets in her way – or who appears like they will without working for it – is an obstacle she will overcome,” Sevola says of her character.

Vivienne comes off as “mean,” she thinks. The character Vivienne transforms into the second act as her priorities change over time, specifically the severity in how she tackles her career goals, turns into support for others by the end.

While Sevola’s resume continues to expand with chance-taking roles, she credits a portion of her success to some entities to her early beginnings in theatre.

“Matt Swiss at the high school and Professor Marielaine Mamon at CCM were great mentors and supporters in my adolescence. I owe a lot to them for challenging me and helping me grow.”

Asked about where she sees theatre as a Performing Art in 2022 America, Sevola’s response is historical and brews with optimism.

“It was a scary time between 20202021 when theatre was shut down, especially for those of us who make this our living. But there is a millennia-old art form, one that has persisted through war, natural disasters and pandemics. It has the power to adapt to changing times and circumstances of any kind and it will only continue to do so,” she feels saying that the new work she’s witnessing now is a direct reaction to the last two to three years.

“I hope that the theatre industry, and those that consume it, will see how productive and meaningful diverse stories are so that we can continue the important work of telling them. Theatre shows us what it means to be human, and every day

we get closer to portraying that truth for every human.”

Legally Blonde - The National Tour will be traveling through the United States starting up again this month before reaching the State Theater of New Jersey in New Brunswick from April 28-30, 2023. For tickets or more information, visit www. blondeontour.com.

Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

The dental group kids LOVE and their parents trust!

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John Bonanni: Retiring Morris County Administrator Attends Last Board Meeting

Long-time Morris County Administrator John Bonanni was hailed for his years of leadership at his final meeting of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, who thanked him for 33 years of service and a steady management style that steered Morris County government through good and bad times over the years.

“Morris County government really does run like a top, as our Governor once said, and the reason is people like John Bonanni. The hard work and sound advice he brought to the office every day for the past 33 years is immeasurable, and the entire county is a better place because of him and the people he surrounded himself with. I will deeply miss John’s dayto-day guidance, but I know he will pick up the phone if I call to ask his advice. That is who John is,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen.

The Commissioners and administrative staff presented Bonanni with an etching of the Morris County Courthouse, a traditional gift given to retiring, long-time employees. The etching bears a placard that simply reads: “Thank You, John G. Bonanni For 33 Years of Distinguished Service To the People of Morris County.”

“There truly are no words that could describe my deep appreciation to Morris County. I am honored to have had the opportunity to work for this amazing county for over three decades. I am so proud of what we have together accomplished,” said Mr. Bonanni during the public meeting.

“John’s impact is as much about the future as past accomplishments. His pride in Morris County and his drive to provide a high level of caring and service for our residents is embedded in how the county operates

and will have a significant positive effect for years to come,” said Deputy Director John Krickus.

Many honors and awards have been bestowed upon Mr. Bonanni over the years. Among them was the New Jersey Association of Counties first-ever County Administrator Lifetime Achievement Award in December 2020. That honor was later put on the Congressional Record in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) in February 2021.

Mr. Bonanni’s tireless work during the COVID-19 pandemic also earned him The Arc of New Jersey Heroes of 2020 award for helping to rescue and support people with disabilities who were stricken by the virus and suffered staffing shortages at group homes.

“John has been a true friend, mentor and partner. He’s a humble guy who -- and let’s be honest about it -- has always made the board look good. He has guided all of us to be the best representatives we can be for Morris County,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith.

“I’ve known John my entire life, so I’m not going to even try to encapsulate everything about him in just a few words. But we grew up together in Boonton. I knew his sister first and his father, and I remember John back when he first began working in a bank. We’ve known each other through so many different relationships over the years that, on a personal level, I’m sure we will continue to stay in touch somehow. On a professional level; however, I’ll miss his insight and his ability to get things done effectively. He has been a great asset to Morris County and it’s difficult to envision Morris County without him. So, I just want to wish my old friend the best life has to offer in this new phase of

his life and to say thank you for your friendship,” said Commissioner Douglas Cabana.

Mr. Bonanni, who is noted for shunning the spotlight and deflecting praise for his achievements over the years, was heralded – and roasted somewhat –during a recent retirement party attended by hundreds of family, friends, colleagues and elected local, county, state and federal officials. He officially retires on Jan. 1, and Assistant Administrator Deena Leary, who was appointed by the board earlier in the year to assume the helm, will officially become the new administrator in the New Year.

“The people in Morris County have benefited from John’s wisdom and knowledge. His legacy will be felt for many years to come. I also enjoyed his sense of humor,” said Commissioner Kathryn DeFillippo.

“Morris County is a better place because of John Bonanni’s 33 years of service. John’s motivation is simple, he has a deep rooted desire to help others. This motivation coupled with uncompromising ethical and work standards has served Morris County and the Commissioner Board well. John prefers to work tirelessly behind the scenes and has also developed a phenomenal

support staff that is enabling the commissioners to make a seamless transition at the Administrator and Deputy Administrator positions. It has been an honor and great learning experience to work with John since I have been on the board,” said Commissioner Stephen Shaw.

A lifelong resident of

Morris County, Mr. Bonanni began his employment with Morris County in January of 1990 as Assistant Director of Operations within the Department of Human Services. In 1992, he was promoted to Director of the Department of Human Services, which is the largest department in county government, charged with

providing a wide array of services directed at enabling residents an opportunity to improve the quality of their lives.

“As the second longest serving freeholderCommissioner on the board, I have seen John Bonanni in action through economic downturns and through

continued on page 13

continued from page 12

guided me during my two terms as Director of the board, helping me to insure that any decisions made were not influenced by politics, but instead were decision of good government for all the people of Morris John Bonanni...

County as we delivered zero percent tax increases, introduced a $60 million debt reduction plan and remained one of the best financially run counties in the country. His example of leadership will be missed.”

Mr. Bonanni was promoted in 2004 to the position of Morris County Administrator and has served the county in the position for the past 18 years.

As County Administrator, he was directly responsible for operations and management of the six major county departments, as well as the development and management of the county’s annual $331.1 million budget. Mr. Bonanni also oversaw the Departments of Public Works, Human Services, Law and Public Safety, Finance, Employee Resources, and Information Technology.

Looking back over his tenure, Mr. Bonanni said he is proud of the advancements that have been made in the areas of Human Services, Public Safety and shared services.

Having been Administrator during Hurricane Irene, Superstorm Sandy and Hurricane Ida, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Bonanni has experienced firsthand the emergent and ongoing needs of the county’s residents. He says he was extremely fortunate to have been able to partner with the many local community based nonprofits, local municipal governments, local first responders and faith based groups to address those needs.

Mr. Bonanni was issued the 2016 Patriots Path Council, Boy Scouts of America Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2016 Mental Health Association of Morris County Community Leadership Award for his years of advocacy on behalf of the Morris County human services community.

In 2018 he was presented with the Morris County Chamber of Commerce Alex DeCroce Public Leadership Award.

Mr. Bonanni has served as a Commissioner on the N.J. Public Employees Relations Commission, as a member of the Morris County Insurance Commission, and as chairperson of the Morris County Improvement Authority. In 2010 he chaired Governor Chris Christie’s Departments of Human Services and Children and Family Transition Teams.

He is a 40 year member of the Boonton Fire Department, serves as a Board member on theMorris County Economic Development Corporation and on the New Jersey Association of Counties.

Mr. Bonanni also has regularly served as a presenter and instructor for Rutgers University’s Center for Government Services, sharing his extensive knowledge of county government.

Mr. Bonanni, however, takes greatest pride and delight being with his three daughters and two grandsons.

Ironia Resident Al Heath Recalls Its Development

By Henry M. Holden

In 1871, a small section of Randolph Township was given a name, and an identity. It was born when the iron industry in Morris County was the third largest in the nation. Surrounded by several of the larger and more productive mines, in neighboring Chester, Mine Hill, and Wharton, this section of land drew the attention of several prominent local citizens. Plans for developing a town out of this isolated woodland were devised and the town was named, appropriately, “Ironia.” This unincorporated village of Randolph Township would be the “missing link” along a rich vein of ore that ran from the Dickerson Mine south into Chester.

At the time, there were about 40 buildings and 200 residents in the area. The area was mostly farmhouses, and mills. This was an area, where neighbors were miles apart, dirt roadways barely passable, and self-reliance necessary.

Eighty-eight-year-old Al Heath is no stranger to Ironia. His family moved to Ironia when he was a small boy. He didn’t move again until 2018.

“I spent more than 53 years in Ironia and have seen some unimagined changes take place,” said Heath.

“The biggest change for me was we lived in Victory Gardens and then moved to Ironia,” said Heath. “What attracted us was we knew what a great school system existed, and we wanted to stay in Randolph Township.

“Ironia was a nice place to live. It mimicked other suburban villages. We had our own little strip mall. The original post office was in Bill’s Luncheonette, on Dover Chester Road. What was ironic was the Ironia post office

was in Chester.”

The main street of Ironia was where the train station was located. Back in the 1920s a few of the iron mines were still functioning and using the railroad to the iron market. Main Street was once in the center of town.

“There is nothing left of the railroad. The buildings are gone. All remnants are even gone. They pulled the track up and there was nothing left to indicate a railroad ever was there.”

“When one hears about Main Street, they think it’s in the center of town and it was in Ironia until the railroad left.”

It all reverted to nature. “If you were to go down there now, there’s no way you would know what it was years ago.”

Daniel Budd and Nathaniel Cooper, two influential local men wanted railroads to come to Chester and connect to the mines further north. Budd joined forces with the Canfields, owners of the large Dickerson Mine, to embark on a three-tiered plan to create an industrial town from this area of wilderness and farmland.

“First, the Ironia Iron Company was to develop future railroads needed to access area mines,” said Heath. “Second, the Ironia Car and Transportation Company was to manufacture train engines and cars. The cornerstone of the project was the Ironia Land and Improvement Company. It acquired rights to purchase up to 1,000 acres of land in the vicinity of the railroad for the development of a planned community based around the iron industry. A grid of paper streets was drawn, but only a few houses were built.”

Main Street, Budd Street, and Chester Avenue were the names given to the roads that were to have anchored the town of Ironia. Main Street led to the train depot, where a

Al Heath, a trustee of the Randolph Museum Spent most of his life in Ironia. Here a manikin of an 18th century school Marm (with switch in hand) is behind Heath awaiting Heath to make a missstep. (Photo credit Henry M. Holden)

large 14 x 22-foot station was built. A threestory hotel was constructed along with a general store and a freight building. Along Budd Street and Chester Ave, three homes were built to house mining families. But no more were built, in spite of the grand plan of the Ironia Land Company.

“In 1873, the country went through an economic depression and combined with cheaper iron ore from the Great Lakes region the iron industry in Ironia collapsed,” said Heath. “Financing and developing a town based entirely around iron mining now became risky.”

Although the railroad was meant to serve the now-defunct iron mining industry, it continued to play a part in the development of Ironia.

“The Chester Railroad, a branch of the Morris and Essex line, offered passenger service as well as a freight line. Ironia children used the train to attend school in Dover. The last Chester Railroad passenger train left Ironia on December 31, 1932. The last freight train soon followed. The railway was officially abandoned in December 1933.”

Citizens no longer need iron for the economy. The Crowley family had a large

milk goat farm. Wally Wrede’s River Game Farm had about 20,000 pheasants and was in operation until the 1980s.

“The Crowley family settled in Ironia, on their Breezy Hill goat farm, in the 1940s,” said Heath. “They purchased the general store from the Strykers and became Postmasters. Bill Crowley worked as Postmaster from 1944 until 1982. He served on the original Ironia Fire Department from its inception in 1947 until the 1960s. He owned Bill’s Luncheonette and General Store from 1949 until his death in 2008.

“Bill’s grandson is currently running the store as a luncheonette. They serve breakfast and lunch and close at 3 o’clock. No dinner because they can’t compete with dinner places like pizza parlors, and others. They just specialize in breakfast and lunch.”

Evidence of growth, change and tourism in Ironia manifested itself in the mid-1900s. Greenhut Park was a summer colony that operated until the 1970s. Greenhut Park boasted its own hotel, the Peggy Lee, which had a large dance and recreation hall. In the 1930s the Woodland Club nudist colony on Park Avenue operated until the days of going naked ended in the 1960s, when housing developments came too close for

comfort.

The Land Company sold its accumulated property, and Ironia never materialized into the industrial hub it was intended to be. Although several of the larger Ironia-area mining operations were able to continue production for another decade the smaller Ironia mines could not recover from the 1873 depression. The largest mines, such as the Dickerson and Scrub Oaks Mines in Mine Hill, continued operating until the

mid-1900s.

Over the years Ironia went from iron mining to an agrarian economy and then a bedroom community.

“In Lower Ironia, Main Street still exists today,” said Heath, It’s a small residential roadway to nowhere, unless one is familiar with its history. Today, the railroad bed, from the location of the former Ironia station is part of the Morris County Park System.”

PH Steakhouse Revives Historic Chester Publick House

By Stacey Feintuch

The history behind the building that now houses PH Steakhouse in Chester dates back over 200 years. The location has been a stagecoach stop, prep school, hotel, tavern, and famously The Publick House up until 2020. Now, the Restaurant Village Hospitality Group is reviving the space as an upscale steakhouse. The building itself is part of the National Register of Historic Places. While developing PH Steakhouse, the 18,400-square foot space received cosmetic renovations, but no structural changes have been made. For instance, wood was stripped down and refurbished, and the walls have been painted burgundy and forest green shades. They also upgraded the kitchen appliances to accommodate steakhouse cooking.

“My vision for this place is to have everything be first class and high end,” says Steve Bussel. This includes hosting a live piano player and offering valet parking on Friday and Saturday evenings. The President and Owner of Restaurant Village Hospitality Group, Steve resides in Tewksbury but once lived in Chester. He works alongside Andrea Bussel, his wife, who manages all of the marketing and social media for the group.

A Prime Menu Selection

PH Steakhouse offers an elevated steakhouse menu. They only serve prime cuts of meat, with sirloin, porterhouse, tomahawk, T-bone, and New York strip options. All their meats, desserts, and dressings are made on-site. Steve says he prefers to try a little bit of everything, but ultimately loves the porterhouse for two. Other menu highlights include seafood, chicken, burgers, and salads. But save room for tasty desserts like crème brulee, 24-layer chocolate cake, apple crisp, and banana bread pudding.

As for drinks, the cocktail menu comes from a professional mixologist, and their high-end wine list from a sommelier. PH Steakhouse presents favorites like the dirty martini and classic collins, as well as seasonal flavors. For example, fall options include the Harvest Spritz and A Stroll on the Boulevard. The former mixes Grey Goose Essences White Peach & Rosemary Vodka, Aperol, apple cider, honey syrup, and Prosecco. Meanwhile, the latter combines Starlight Applejack, apple cider, Nonino Aperitivo, and Blandy’s Rainwater Madiera with shaved cinnamon and lavender.

About the Building

Lawyer

Despite the updates, PH Steakhouse has the look and feel of a 200-year-old building. In particular, décor includes some old art and sewing machines from the building’s previous lives. “The ambiance suits a steakhouse. It has a lot of history and charm,” Steve says.

The interior seats 130 diners, in addition to a catering room for up to 80 guests. Meanwhile, the outdoor porch has nine

tables that can seat 30 people comfortably. There are also 10 renovated hotel suites on the upper floor which will open in the future for reservations. Each suite includes a living room, bedroom, and bathroom. Future plans include opening a gelato café within the building.

Visit PH Steakhouse at 111 Main St in Chester. To learn more, visit www. phsteakhouse.com.

Robert J. Greenbaum, Esq.

A Classic Steakhouse with a Modern HHHH Twist

By GAIL GERSON

From its tasteful 18th century décor, to their smooth, nicely liveried servers, to a versatile & intelligent wine list & sophisticated kitchen, the PH Steakhouse is everything a refined steakhouse should be. Although many of the dishes seem familiar, they are designed with a creative & very modern flair, that contribute to a singular & memorable dining experience. The beautifully appointed & fully restored dining room with comfortable chairs & roomy tables, the extremely knowledgeable servers, who are absolutely up to their eyebrows trying to make sure that guests have good reasons to like the restaurant, indicate someone is paying attention. The talented host-owner, Steve Bussel, who has developed many restaurants, along with manager Jennifer Evans, Assistant Manager Blake & the talented Chef Juan, believe in making almost everything from scratch, following the seasons & savoring & caring about the food. Here, the original flavors are wisely presented in all their opulence. They do believe in the slogan: “Keep it simple, work with quality ingredients.”

ABOUT THE OWNER

The steakhouse & Publick House hotel re-opened September 28, 2022. Mr. Bussel’s plan was to offer the finest cuts of USDA, perfectly seared prime, dry-aged steaks. Steve Bussel, the son of a Kosher butcher, grew up in an atmosphere where food was the main topic in the family, from the start.

He fell in love with the 1812 building that was a stagecoach stop between Morristown & Pennsylvania & accomplished his dream to restore the building to its original splendor. After our press tasting, our researchers concluded that the entire staff presented a combination of style, personality, know-how & perseverance, along with a passionate mix of delectable culinary delights. With mouth-watering side dishes created to enhance the flavors of the cuisine & award-winning cocktails & dazzling desserts, our group of researchers were truly impressed. This talented team brings a unique hands on approach, to restaurant ownership & hospitality. Mr. Bussel and his skillful organization have created a recipe for success, by applying their own unique ideas & extensive experience, to this new American steakhouse. Gail says “Go!”

HHHH STEAK & SEAFOOD SPECIALITIES

PH Steakhouse 111 Main St., Chester, NJ 908.955.7911 Phsteakhouse.com

Valet Parking & Piano Player Sat in Bar 6:30-9:30pm; Open 7 days Mon-Thurs 12-9pm, Fri & Sat 12-11pm, Sun 12-9pm; Full Bar; All Major Credit Cards Accepted; Handicap Access; Flat Screen TVs; Bar Menu at Eat in Bar; Specialty Cocktails; Outside Catering (up to 20 miles), Call For Info; Train 10 mins away in Peapack-Gladstone; Total Seating: 130; Outside Porch, 9 tables - Seats 30; Restaurant Reservations Preferred; Daily Specials; Gift Certificates; Available for Private Parties - All Custom Designed, Private Party room Seats 80; 3 Dining Rooms: Chester, Publick, Washington Rooms Seat 130; Party Pkgs - Call ASAP to book; Ample Parking; Open Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve; Complete Art Deco

Renovation Hotel with 10 suites, 5 on each floor, various sizes; Reserve online with Resy & Roomkey.com; Prices-Moderate. GELATO CAFÉ - OPENING IN SPRING Call Mgr Jennifer Evans to book a party

To say the starters are impeccable, would be an understatement. Try the colossal new SEAFOOD TOWER, the unique CRABMEAT COCKTAIL, the addictive TUNA POKE BOWL & the exquisite Fall CHOPPED SALAD, along with a superb LOBSTER ROLL. The deletable MARGUERITA & BLANCO FLATBREADS were a joy to our tastebuds and true flavor explosions.

suites, five on each floor, of various sizes & each with its own living room, are quite historical & beautifully appointed. Several can accommodate 4-6 guests. Reserve with Roomkey.com.

I heartily recommend the DRY AGED PORTERHOUSE FOR TWO, but the generous cut of oven roasted BONE-IN RIB-EYE, is marvelous as well. From the impeccable DRY AGED DOUBLE CUT DUROC PORK CHOP, to the delicious TOMAHAWK CHOP FOR TWO, our researchers were impressed with every bite. The unsurpassed FILET MIGNON is another glorious selection. Non steak entrees include the pleasant tasting AHI TUNA STEAK & the striking GRILLED SWORDFISH STEAK. Other dishes that readers recommended are the OLIVE CRUSTED SALMON & sauteed mushrooms. The list of superb sides includes the supreme TRUFFLE SMASHED YUKON GOLD POTATO, the CREAMED OR SAUTEED SPINACH, the JUMBO GRILLED ASPARAGUS and BAKED WHITE CHEDDAR MAC & CHEESE. The ROASTED BROCCOLINI & THE SMOKED BRUSSEL SPROUTS are divine. You can also choose your own sauce from a wonderful selection.

“Owner Steve Bussel, along with famed Chef Juan, GM Jennifer Evans & Assistant Manager Blake, present the area’s best steak & seafood by any standard, with the USDA’s highest designation for beef. The PRIME steaks we experienced have the necessary marbling that impart a unique combination of taste & texture & define the ultimate steak-eating experience,” Writer Gail Gerson.

Chef Juan presented us with the perfect finale. The succulent CHOCOLATE LAYER CAKE & CREME BRULEE are finger-licking good & the RICOTTA CHEESECAKE delish, but the HOMEMADE DELICATE MILK CHOCOLATE MOUSSE is enchanting.

Ten

The New Seafood Tower

Majestic Catering Room Seats 80

Warm Up with Classic Comfort Foods

With plenty of cold-weather events and gatherings to celebrate alongside loved ones, one classic way to warm up the crowd is hot, comforting food. Soups, chili, casseroles, stews and more provide perfect ways to shake off the chill that comes with the season.

Ideal for serving family and friends after time spent outside or just as an excuse to get together, Beet Lentil Chili with Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Beets and Loaded Chicken Bake made using READ German Potato Salad provide filling options for satisfying a group with eight servings each. Plus, they’re easy to make – the chili calls for 20 minutes of prep before simmering while the chicken casserole requires less than an hour spent in the kitchen.

Next time a brisk day cools your family to the core, keep these hearty meals in mind for simple options to warm up from the inside out.

Find more comforting recipe ideas at auntnellies.com and readsalads.com

Beet Lentil Chili

Recipe courtesy of Angie McGowan of “Eclectic Recipes”

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 2 hours

Servings: 8

2 jars (16 ounces each) Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Beets

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

4 stalks celery, diced

3 medium carrots, diced

1 teaspoon kosher salt

2 cloves garlic, diced

2 tablespoons smoked paprika

2 tablespoons ground cumin

1 1/2 tablespoons ground coriander

1 teaspoon dried oregano

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste

2 quarts low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock

1 quart water

1 pound lentils

Garnishes (optional):

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup radishes, cut into matchsticks

1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro

1/2 cup finely chopped onions

1 cup crumbled queso fresco

Drain beets; dice and set aside. Discard liquid.

Preheat large soup pot over medium heat. Drizzle with olive oil. Add onion, celery, carrots and salt; saute until softened, stirring occasionally.

Add garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, oregano, chili powder and tomato paste; saute until fragrant, stirring frequently.

Add stock, water, beets and lentils. Bring to boil; reduce to simmer. Simmer about 2 hours, or until lentils are tender.

Serve with sour cream, radishes, cilantro, onions and queso fresco, if desired.

Loaded Chicken Bake Recipe courtesy of “Hungry In LA”

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Servings: 8

Nonstick cooking spray

2 cans (15 ounces each) READ German Potato Salad

4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon finely ground black pepper

3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon

French-fried onions (optional)

Preheat oven to 375 F.

Lightly coat 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Spread potato salad evenly in dish. Top evenly with chicken.

In small bowl, stir together cream, salt and pepper. Pour mixture over chicken.

Sprinkle with cheese, bacon and Frenchfried onions, if desired.

Bake 15 minutes, or until casserole is bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes. Top with additional French-fried onions, if desired. (Family Features)

Power Family Meals with Protein-Packed Peanuts

Starting fresh with a new year is a chance to hit the reset button for many people, and your family can use this opportunity to rethink homemade meals while striving for nutritious (and still delicious) dishes. From snacks to the main course each evening, the options are nearly endless for planning a revamped menu with healthier ingredients.

Dinnertime can be a cinch with Peanut Butter Chicken, a simple dish that takes less than 20 minutes to make when busy evenings call for a quick solution. If a veggiebased option aligns better with your family’s desires, try Veggie Sammies with Peanut Butter Satay Sauce or go full-on comfort food with Very Vegan Peanut Butter Jackfruit Chili. Snacking doesn’t have to mean forgoing your dedication to nutritious choices either – these Peanut Granola Bars can be your made-at-home masterpiece for adults and children to enjoy.

These recipes from the Georgia Peanut

Commission are powered by peanuts, a nutrient-rich superfood that delivers 19 vitamins and 7 grams of protein per serving for a health benefit punch in each bite.

Discover more nutritious recipe ideas at gapeanuts.com

Veggie Sammies with Peanut Butter Satay Sauce

Prep time: 30 minutes

Servings: 2 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter 3 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons water 4 teaspoons hoisin sauce

2 teaspoons soy sauce 2 teaspoons sriracha

2 French baguette rolls (6 inches each)

1/2 cup cucumber, sliced

1/2 cup white onion, sliced into thin strips

1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1/2 cup purple cabbage

1/2 cup fresh cilantro

In small bowl, combine peanut butter,

lime juice, water, hoisin sauce, soy sauce and sriracha; mix well.

Spread sauce on both sides of each roll then layer with cucumber, onion and bell pepper. Top with cabbage and cilantro.

Very Vegan Peanut Butter Jackfruit Chili Recipe courtesy of the National Peanut Board

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 35 minutes

Servings: 8 2 teaspoons oil

1/2 large white onion, chopped

1/2 green bell pepper, chopped

1/2 red bell pepper, chopped

2 garlic cloves, chopped

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 can crushed tomatoes

1 can whole tomatoes

2 cups water

1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1 can green jackfruit, drained and chopped 1/4 cup peanut butter

cornbread (optional) tortilla chips (optional) cinnamon rolls (optional)

Heat large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add oil, onion and peppers; cook 3 minutes, stirring often. Add garlic, salt, cumin, chili powder and tomato paste, stirring to coat. Cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, then stir in crushed tomatoes, whole tomatoes, water, kidney beans and jackfruit; bring to boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 25-30 minutes. Stir in peanut butter and simmer 5 minutes.

Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips or cinnamon rolls, if desired.

Peanut Granola Bars

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 6 minutes, plus 30-45 minutes cooling time

Servings: 12-14

1/2 cup honey

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

2tablespoons creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4teaspoon salt

2 cups rolled oats (quick or regular)

1 cup bran flakes

1 cup sweetened coconut flakes1 cup dried

fruit (raisins, blueberries or cranberries)

1 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

In large, shallow, microwavable dish, combine honey, butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla and salt. Microwave at 50% power 2 minutes then whisk to combine and microwave at 50% power 2 minutes.

Add oats, bran flakes, coconut flakes, dried fruit and peanuts; stir to combine. Microwave on high 1 minute. Stir and microwave 30 seconds.

Press mixture into 13-by-9-inch baking dish lined with parchment or wax paper with some extra hanging over edges to easily lift bars out. Use bottom of glass wrapped with plastic wrap to press granola mixture firmly into pan. Allow to cool completely 30-45 minutes. Cut into 12-14 bars.

Peanut Butter Chicken

Recipe courtesy of “Unsophisticook”

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 12 minutes Yield: 6 cups

Peanut Sauce: 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter

3 tablespoons sweet red chili sauce

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1/8-1/4 cup hot water (optional)

chopped unsalted roasted peanuts (optional) 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes

1 tablespoon soy sauce

3/4 cup peanut sauce cooked brown rice assorted bell peppers, sliced chopped unsalted roasted peanuts (optional)

To make peanut sauce: In small glass bowl, whisk peanut butter, sweet red chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce and honey until blended smoothly.

Thin sauce with hot water to desired consistency. Garnish with chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, if desired.

To make chicken: In large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle oil. Add diced chicken then pour soy sauce over top. Saute about 10-12 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.

Serve with peanut sauce, brown rice and colorful sliced veggies. Garnish with chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, if desired.

The next time your loved ones crave a comforting dish that’s warming from the inside-out, turn to an alltime classic with a touch of southern flair.

Take inspiration for this Tex-Mex Beef Lasagna from season 3 of “BBQuest: Beyond the Pit,” a video series that dives into the long-held traditions, new flavors and everyday inspiration that make Texas barbecue legendary. Developed from the show by BBQuest co-host and “Hardcore Carnivore” cookbook author Jess Pryles, this tasty take on comfort food can be the perfect solution for a family meal with plenty of leftovers.

After dinner, settle in together and learn pitmaster techniques from the experts

Turn to Tradition for Tex-Mex Taste

as the series follows four themes that capture the essence of Texas barbecue: legacy and tradition; creativity and innovation; Texas trailblazers; and family and community.

“Since launching BBQuest four years ago, it’s truly remarkable to see how much has changed and yet stayed the same when it comes to Texas barbecue, and that’s exactly what you see in season 3,” said Rachel Chou, Texas Beef Council’s director of consumer marketing. “There has been so much exciting innovation around cooking methods and international flavors while there’s still a huge dedication to longheld recipes and smoking techniques.”

To find more pitmasterworthy recipes, visit

BeefLovingTexans.com.

Tex-Mex Beef Lasagna Recipe courtesy of Jess Pryles on behalf of Beef Loving Texans

Total time: 60 minutes

Servings: 10 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 onion, diced 2 pounds ground beef 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin 2 teaspoons chipotle powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

15 ounces canned corn, drained 15 ounces canned seasoned black beans, drained 10 ounces canned diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained 15 ounces canned red enchilada sauce 1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream

nonstick cooking spray 12 corn tortillas 8 ounces shredded Mexican blend cheese cilantro (optional) green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

Preheat oven to 375 F.

In large pan or skillet, heat olive oil over mediumhigh heat then add onion. Cook until softened, 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly.

Add ground beef and cook, stirring regularly, until beef has browned.

Add kosher salt, garlic powder, cumin, chipotle powder and onion powder; stir well. Add corn, black beans and diced tomatoes. Turn heat to medium and simmer 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

In bowl, combine enchilada sauce and crema; mix well.

Spray casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Pour about 1/4 cup enchilada sauce mixture on bottom to prevent tortillas from sticking.

Layer 2-4 tortillas across bottom then top with layer of ground beef mixture. Use ladle to spoon some enchilada sauce mixture on top, distributing evenly. Top with another layer of tortillas then repeat layers

until casserole is full, 3-4 layers. Top with shredded cheese.

Loosely cover dish with foil in tent shape to help prevent cheese from sticking then bake 30 minutes.

Remove foil and bake 1015 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Cool 5 minutes before serving. Top with cilantro and green onions, if desired.

(Family Features)

Approaching 70: Remembering West Virginia

By Richard Mabey Jr.

In September, I’ll turn 70. In many ways, it is a most incredible milestone. From having done decades of research on my family heritage, I found out that my forefathers settled in what is now known as Lincoln Park, way back in the 1600’s. Here is a most interesting fact. Going back many generations, none of my forefathers ever made it to 80. So, I have become ever aware of the clicking of the clock and tearing of the pages of the calendar.

I tend to write about my family heritage, of the years of growing up in old Lincoln Park, and of people who deeply touched my life. I don’t write much about my years of living alone in a small town in West Virginia, wherein I did my very best to maintain a small chiropractic practice. They were painful years. You see, back in the mid seventies to the early eighties, in a small town in West Virginia, I may as well have put up a sign that read, “Witch Doctor.” I don’t mean to sound harsh, but sadly, that is the painful truth.

There was a time when there was a great prejudice against chiropractic, sadly it was headed by the well meaning, buy poorly misdirected leaders of the established medical profession. I don’t write those words with malice and bad feelings, but rather as facing a cold, hard historical fact.

A very close friend of mine, whom I have known for many years, suggested that I should write about those years of struggle, the years of counting pennies, the years of a certain loneliness. In many ways, my failure to make it as a

chiropractor in that little town in West Virginia, was actually one of my greatest successes.

Each and every one of us knows deep within the chambers of their heart that they hold the key to their own fate and destiny. Struggles can be looked upon as a means to feel sorry for yourself, to look with envy at those who have all so much while we are faced with living on hot dogs and beans as a dietary mainstay. Or, we can look at our times of struggle as a precious gift that gave us the opportunity to grow and become stronger and dig deeper to find faith in God.

The West Virginia Years as I now call them were the some of the toughest times of my life. But along the path of that journey in

time, I did come to meet and know some very kind people. And, sadly, I came to know some very cruel and mean-spirited people. This is a most painful, but still inspiring, memory of my life. It has been very hard to face square on, let alone write about it. Now, at the age of 69, I have found the courage and strength to revisit that time of hard challenges, a certain loneliness, a devastating heartbreak, and a struggle that only strengthened me in heart, mind and soul.

In the next few montths, that lie ahead, I will share this heart warming story with you.

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

A recent photo of yours truly with my dear friend, Little Rocky. I still wear my old West Virginia sweatshirt and baseball cap, for old time’s sake.

Madison Resident and Golf Historian Pens New Book on History of the Game in Garden State

By Alexander Rivero

As far back as he can recall, Madison resident and Louisiana native Kevin Casey, 69, has been in love with the game of golf. As a child he played it with his parents and older brother, and by 8 he won his first trophy. By his own estimation, he was a “pretty good” junior player in the state of Louisiana, and went on to the University of Georgia, where he played on the school team. He followed with a five-year stint in the army, during which time he, naturally, continued playing.

Now retired and hungry to remain within the game he loves, Casey wrote a book tracing New Jersey’s historical place within the history of golf in the United States. The book— Remarkable Stories of New Jersey Golf: The Unique History of Golf in the Garden State—is published by Legendary Publishing & Media Group, and dives into local golf history by way of its greatest stories.

The book is of the coffee table variety, 11 by 14 inches in length, rich in description and photographs, and is a fine addition to the library of anyone that appreciates not only the beauty of the game, but the extent to which New Jersey helped determine its development in the United States up through the 19th and 20th century.

Like anyone who had taken a head-first plunge into a deep subject, Casey’s main problem in putting the book together was in determining what information to keep and what information to discard.

“There was easily enough material here for another book,” he says. “The history is so rich, it was a struggle to determine the scope of what I’d focus on.”

Casey knew that there was always a great deal of interest in the subject of golf in New Jersey, both from the practical perspective of gamesmanship and the historical element of it. He took a careful inventory of the books published on the subject of local golf, and found an opportunity to add a volume of material that no one had ever delved into beyond a peripheral point.

“New Jersey didn’t have any place that pulled together the history of the game in the state,” Casey says, “and the more I dove into it, the more amazing it all got.”

Two of the most interesting stories that caught his eye during his early research phase were the very first golf club ever managed completely by women, and the first golf club ever managed wholly by African-Americans.

The first story centers on the Morris County Golf

Club, which started in 1894. From the beginning, it was an all-female operated club, and the course itself was designed for women as well.

“The men would be able to come and play on Saturdays, during the afternoons, after 3 o’clock,” Casey says. “But before long, the men, who controlled the pursestrings at the time, ended up deciding it was something they had to take over, and they did.”

The options were to either pull out their funds entirely, or keep the club with the men as the board of governors. The women’s board disintegrated and Morris County Golf Club was born.

The golf course set the stage for female participation in the sport, and it had a lasting impact on golf’s attraction to female participants for years to come.

The second story centers on the Shady Rest Golf Club of Scotch Plains (now the public Scotch Hills Country Club), which ran from 1920 to 1963. In 1921, Shady Rest became the first ever African-American owned and operated golf club, a first for both New Jersey and the United States.

Throughout most of its history under AfricanAmerican ownership, all the way up through 1964, the club went beyond the

simple standards of a golf club. Shady Rest was a community center, a place for African-Americans to congregate and relax, as well as a venue for some of the greatest singers and musicians of its day. Some of the talent that stopped by Shady Rest include none other than Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, and Cab Calloway.

Shady Rest ultimately closed in 1964, and in the process transferred over to

Front cover of the book, available for order from http://www. njgolfstories.com.

public ownership.

For more information on Kevin Casey’s book— Remarkable Stories of New Jersey Golf: The Unique History of Golf in

the Garden State—please visit his website at www. njgolfstories.com. Click on the “order now” link on the upper right hand corner of the page to purchase a copy.

The author, Kevin Casey.

Knock Out Opioid Abuse Program Returns to Deliver Message to High Schoolers

By Steve Sears

For the first time in two years, the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Program, courtesy of the Partnership for a DrugFree New Jersey (PDFNJ) and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (HBCBS), in collaboration with the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA), has returned to deliver a powerful message to high school students in the area.

And late in August, current Harrison High School football coach, former Rutgers Scarlet Knight quarterback, and New York Jets/New England Patriots/Miami Dolphins player, Ray Lucas, delivered a key address. Lucas suffered numerous injuries and underwent more than a dozen operations while and after he was a player. After becoming dependent on prescribed opioids, Lucas sometimes took up to 1,400 pills monthly.

Recognizing the concern that teen athletes who get injured can also suffer the same type of addiction, PDFNJ, HBCBS, and the NJSIAA wants to stop the spread before it gets out of hand.

“The Partnership has developed a multi-pronged approach to educating young people in the state of New Jersey on the opioid epidemic,” Angelo Valente, PDFNJ Executive Director, says. “That approach includes events such as what we’re doing with Ray which we’ve just completed at Clifton High School: talking to student athletes who are very vulnerable, unfortunately, because they experience injuries, and as a result, may be in a

position where they may be prescribed an opioid. We’re also delivering messages through various media outlets, including but not limited to signs on buses and trains and billboards, and messages on our social media platforms.”

Another part of the process, per Valente, is engaging young people in many of the PDFNJ’s school-based programs, allowing them to become more knowledgeable about the issue. “ That’s also another part of the approach,” Valente adds. He also feels that, in addition to Lucas being representative of an esteemed group that had risen to the top ranks of professional sports and had fallen on hard times in addiction, Lucas’s presence is also emblematic of someone who, if he knew back then what he knows now, he would not have become dependent on opioids. “That is one of the reasons his presentation is so important. As a person who has gone through athletics on the high school, college, and professional levels, by speaking to athletes, he can easily relate to what they are experiencing on a day-today basis. When he delivers his message about looking at ways to deal with pain other than through opioids, speaking to your trainers, doctors, and coaches about alternative to using opioids to address any sports injuries, I think that’s most important.”

Lucas played for seven seasons in the National Football League, primarily as a quarterback. Two years after he left the NFL, he had major back surgery, and five years after that started to experience serious neck issues. He started to take pills regularly, and his addiction had begun. “I was

in a very dark place,” Lucas says. “I don’t know if I’m a role model, but a survivor definitely. Again, I was in a very dark place.” He had also dropped from his playing weight of 215 pounds down to 164 pounds, and he was approached about telling his story. “That night I went home and prayed, and I heard a voice that asked, ‘How many others are suffering in silence like you?’ I didn’t know, but made the decision that, if I could tell my story, then maybe they (others) could get some kind of hope.”

For more information about the Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey and its programs, visit www.drugfreenj.org.

New Jersey native Ray Lucas and Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey Executive Director Angelo Valente at an event

GRAMMY Museum Experience™ Prudential Center Educates and Provides a Timeline of GRAMMY® History

By Steve Sears

Even though COVID-19 came calling in March of 2020, don’t think activity wasn’t bustling at the 8,200 square foot GRAMMY Museum Experience Prudential Center in Newark.

“We lost a year and a half in the physical museum, but we went digital,” Mark Conklin, Director of Artist Relations and Programming, states. “We did a lot of programming. Our ‘Behind the Song’ series, our ‘Off the Record’ series, our mini masterclass interviews, and we did virtual education programs for lots of kids. We lost the foot traffic in the physical museum, but we kept at it pretty strong.”

Also, as part of the museum’s fifth anniversary celebration in 2022, a “Ladies and Gentlemen…The Beatles!” traveling exhibit opened in October, and will run until June 25, 2023. On display are many Beatlesrelated pop culture artifacts from the period, as well as original lyric sheets, clothing worn by the band, posters, photographs, interviews, interactive displays, and more.

Ladies and Gentlemen…The Beatles! provides insight into how and why The Beatles impacted America in the 1960s—and beyond.

Two offshoots of the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles, California – Recording Academy GRAMMY Museum Mississippi in Cleveland, Mississippi and GRAMMY Museum Gallery at Musicians Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee - predate the Newark Museum, which was the first to open on the east coast on October 20, 2017. When interviewed for his position, Conklin asked founding Executive Director, Robert Santelli, why Newark was the chosen spot. “His response to me was great. He said – and I’ll never forget what he said, ‘Because New York doesn’t need it. New Jersey needs it.’ It was his vision to bring it to New Jersey, and also because obviously New Jersey has had a large influence on music, probably greater than a lot of people realize. I think Newark needed it for the education side, but also there’s a great cultural contribution musically and historically here in Newark. And then I think finally and very importantly, they found a great partner in Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment company, who owns Prudential Center and the New Jersey Devils.”

If visiting the GRAMMY Museum Experience in person, you’ll discover that about 70% of it is interactive. First, there’s the

ability to play actual instruments and learn about the recording process. Conklin says, “You can drum along with Max Weinberg from the E Street Band, and you can rap along with Wyclef Jean. There are a lot of things that you get your hands on, which is really great for anybody, but especially for younger people, or students that come through with large groups.” Then there’s celebrating the history of the GRAMMYss featuring a timeline, with a focus on Garden Staters who have made a significant contribution to music. “You can see artifacts from legends like Bruce Springsteen, Whitney and Cissy Houston, Dionne Warwick, Kool and the Gang, and Les Paul,” Conklin adds. “And then there’s the traveling exhibit, which changes once or twice a year, and programs. We just screened May Pang’s new documentary, we’ve had Gloria Gaynor, we’ve had Mary Wilson of the Supremes. You can come and get a very close and intimate experience with artists, and hear their stories and talk about the creative process.” If you can’t visit in person, online virtual visits yield informative, digital interviews. “If you just love music and want to learn more about artistry and creativity, that’s a great place to be,” Conklin says.

A deep focus of the GRAMMY Museum Experience is education and even music career planning. Conklin says, “The big thing that we focus on is teaching young people how to have careers in music. We’ve developed a program called Record High. We’re going into schools and organizations and teaching young people how to have careers in the music business.” Record High after-school classes are available in the spring and fall, in addition to a week-long immersive camp experience during the summer. Courses include contemporary songwriting, Hip-Hop performance, vocal performance, audio production, and the music business itself. Additionally, there are exclusive mentorship and internship opportunities.

The GRAMMY Museum Experience has been working with youths for almost four years, and the initial seeds are bearing fruit. Conklin speaks proudly about progress made with regard to young people enjoying success. “There are so many avenues for young people that can have exciting, fulfilling careers that we’ve been doing with this program. We have a kid that just signed his first record deal, and we have a girl that signed her first music publishing deal.

We have several of them now at USC, and they’re also at NYU. I don’t know of anybody who’s really doing it as well as we’re doing it. That’s the most fulfilling thing that we do, the role that we play in the community, and that’s what we’re very excited about.”

For more information including directions, ticket prices, visitation and event hours for the GRAMMY Museum Experience Prudential Center, visit www. grammymuseumexp.org.

GRAMMY Museum Experience Prudential Center in Newark

Cupid’s Chase 5K Morristown Spreads the Love for a Beautiful Cause

By Jillian Risberg

Since 1989, Community Options has encouraged the freedom and selfdetermination of all people with disabilities by always advocating for them.

And 2023 will mark the 15th anniversary of Cupid’s Chase. It originated in Princeton, and this is the 10th year being held in Morristown — on Saturday, February 11 from 11am to 6pm.

There are also races in Bridgewater, Burlington, Glen Rock, Princeton, Seaside Heights, Spring Lake, Westfield; and occurring simultaneously in 40 additional cities across 10 states.

“We raise the funds to improve our residences and accessibility supports,” says Northern NJ State Director, Tracy Mendola. “Funding for these are not provided by the state, and we want to ensure that those we support have the most up to date technologies, activities, and homes in order for them to live their most meaningful lives in the community.”

The 5K became a yearly tradition for people to stay fit while raising money for a worthwhile cause.

There are currently about 55 runners registered in this year’s race and they expect to have about 300.

According to Mendola, the course runs throughout the town suburbs, beginning and ending at their Daily Plan It location,

150-152 Speedwell Avenue in Morristown.

This location provides rental space for businesses and employment training for individuals with disabilities who provide concierge services for those tenants.

For the State Director, the most rewarding part of this journey is being able to include the local community in raising awareness for individuals with disabilities and their housing and employment needs — and the substantive lives they are living with the support of Community Options staff.

The most challenging part is the unpredictability of February weather.

“Last year we had a beautiful 50-degree day, but negative temperatures and snowstorms make logistics of the race a bit more complicated,” Mendola says. “Thankfully we have a wonderful team and group of volunteers that ensure the race goes off without any issues.”

The State Director has organized the Morristown race for 10 years. Although she has not attended other races, they all often share information regarding what works and what doesn’t.

“It is truly a team effort with the National office and the race directors to ensure each race is successful,” Mendola says this year’s goal is $30,000; currently they have amassed about $5K. “Last year we raised over $26K, so we are hopeful.”

All proceeds from each Cupid’s Chase race

go directly to benefit the region that hosts the race. So anything raised for Morristown benefits the residences and services in Morris, Sussex, and Essex Counties.

“In the past we have utilized the funds for updating wheelchair ramps, creating accessible bathrooms and many more improvements for residences,” says the State Director.

Her greatest hope for this year’s Cupid’s Chase is that everyone has a great race, and they exceed their fundraising goal.

According to Mendola, the race has a little catch.

She says on the runner’s registration one is asked if they are “available” or “unavailable,” which translates to the color of the Under Armor shirt they are provided

in their competition goody bag.

“This year single runners looking to make a connection at the race will be wearing a white shirt with ‘available’ on the back,” says the State Director. “Those who are ‘unavailable’ will be wearing a red shirt with ‘unavailable’ printed on the back. This makes it easy for Cupid.”

They also have sweatshirts (available in pink and red) for sale with the CC logo and “Morristown” on the back.

With previous races sidelined because of COVID-19 everyone couldn’t be happier to be back.

“Community Options is grateful for all the local participation and support,” Mendola says, adding they hope for a lovely day.

For more information, www.comop.org/

NJStarz

NJ Starz: Don Herrmann Hometown: Chatham

For New York Giants rookie wide receiver, Don Herrmann, it was a dream game every first-year player perhaps wishes they could live.

The powerful Minnesota Vikings, that season destined for a Super Bowl IV trip against the Kansas City Chiefs, strutted into old Yankee Stadium on September 21, 1969, to open the National Football League season. Herrmann that day played a major role in the Giants defeating Minnesota and their “Purple People Eaters” defense. Herrmann caught two touchdown passes from quarterback Fran Tarkenton, the second on a slant route in the last minute of regulation, to defeat the Vikings, 24 – 23. It was also Alex Webster’s first game as Head Coach, and not only did he get his first win, but was also hoisted onto the shoulders of some of his players at game’s end.

After the game, Herrmann posed for a photo with both Webster and Giants owner, Wellington Mara. “With his arm around me,” Herrmann says of Mara and the photo. “In fact, I have the picture here in my house with Wellington with his arm around me. It was in the New York Times.”

Herrmann initially grew up in Linden, and then as a young teen moved with his family to Chatham. His parents were Harry and Anna, and his siblings were Rachael, Glenn, and Wayne. “My father was a builder, and they were going to put the Jetport in Chatham in the Great Swamp,” Herrmann explains. “He bought a house that was half finished, because they couldn’t sell any of the houses because everybody was afraid of the Jetport going in. He bought a house right on top of a mountain in Chatham and finished the house, and we moved there when I was 13. That’s when I started in the Chatham school system. I was in the seventh grade, and I was the last class from the township to go to the borough. I met my wife, Anne, in the borough. We met in the ninth grade, and when we were in high school, we started dating.”

While a member of and running back for the Chatham High School Eskies, Herrmann was injured in his first practice in high school, and was sidelined for almost the entire year, returning at season’s end to play a few games with the junior varsity team. He returned at full strength for his junior year. “I played as a defensive back most of the time and I played a little bit on offense as a wingback, but we didn’t throw the ball a lot at Chatham,” Herrmann says of the Herm Hering coached club. “My senior year, I played halfback both ways, and I was the leading receiver.” The Eskies posted a 7 – 2 record during Herrmann’s junior year, and they were 6 –3 in his senior year.

Herrmann tried to get into the big schools, knocking on the doors of the likes of Rutgers, Syracuse and more, but there were no takers. He ended up as a walk-on at Waynesburg University in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, which he calls a “blessing.” His future wife also went to the smaller NAIA institution, and it gave Herrmann the chance to also grow as a player. “I wound up going to Waynesburg,” Herrmann says, “and the way the Lord led this thing was the best thing that

could happen to me, because I needed time to develop as a player. And also, I wound up marrying my wife, which was the most important thing.”

He did consider leaving after his freshman season and becoming a Purdue Boilermaker, but they didn’t accept him – another blessing. “If I had transferred there, it would have been the biggest mistake of my life, because I wouldn’t have developed as a player,” Herrmann says. “I would have never played at Perdue, and I would’ve never married my wife. “

But under new head coach, Carl DePasqua, he got an 11win, undefeated season, and a national title at Waynesburg during his sophomore year. During his junior year, Herrmann caught 47 passes as Waynesburg employed more passing as part of their offense, and for his senior campaign under another new head coach, Darrell Lewis, he caught 20 touchdown passes for over 1,000 yards, including one game against Lock Haven University where he had over 300 yards receiving and seven touchdowns.

Herrmann was drafted in round 15 of the 1969 National Football League draft by the Giants, and he went on to play nine seasons in the NFL, six for New York and three for the New Orleans Saints. For his career, he played in 36 games and caught 234 passes for 3,039 years and 16 TDs. He was the first Chatham High School Eskie to play in the NFL.

Herrmann recalls the first time he set foot on the turf of the sports cathedral, Yankee Stadium. “We came up for a practice day before the game. I just remember stepping out of the dugout and looking at the blue seats all over, and the green grass, and I was amazed just looking around at this place.” For his career home games as a Giant, Herrmann in addition to Yankee Stadium played at Shea Stadium and the Yale Bowl in New Haven, Connecticut, and in the Superdome as a New Orleans Saint. However, he never played in Giants Stadium. His lone game against the Giants as a Saint was in New Orleans.

In his first season, the Giants were 6 –8, and in 1970 finished 9 – 5, a 31 – 3 defeat to the Los Angeles Rams in the last game of the season elbowing the Giants out of the playoffs. However, there was another game early in the season that perhaps played a bigger role in the Giants missing the postseason. Herrmann explains. “We lost a game down in New Orleans where Aaron Thomas caught a touchdown, and they ruled it incomplete because of the way to endzone was painted.” Video shows Thomas coming down with the ball well inbounds, but the referee waved his arms to signal “no good” as the play transpired on the left side of the endzone. “And they changed the painting of the endzone after that,” Herrmann adds.

Herrmann caught 165 passes while with the Giants for 2,049 yards and 15 touchdowns, and during his career with both them and the Saints, he played with two NFL Hall of Fame quarterbacks, Tarkenton and Norm Snead, and College Hall of Famer, Archie Manning. “Tarkenton was by far the smartest of all,” Herrmann states. “He was a very accurate

thrower. I wouldn’t say he had a strong arm, or he could throw the deep ball, but he was so accurate when he threw the ball. He was by far the smartest, and the best one I thought to play with. Norm Snead, we traded for at the end of his career. He’d played for Washington (Redskins), the Philadelphia Eagles, and the Vikings, and now he comes to New York. And Norm was an accurate thrower, and he could throw the deep ball, too. He was a big guy. He was at the end of his career, but he was still a very, very good quarterback.” After he joined the Saints, Herrmann’s time playing with Manning was limited to three games. “He missed the next year because he had a tendon in his shoulder and they tied it too tight during an operation, so they had to re-operate. He wound up missing the whole year. After that, I split time with quarterbacks Bobby Scott and Bobby Douglas.”

All-in-all for Herrmann, 75, it has been a wonderful life. “I have my jersey from Waynesburg, and the only reason I have anything is because of my wife,” Herrmann says. “They wouldn’t give it to us, so she bought the jersey from the athletic department. She’s my biggest fan.”

Don and Anne Herrmann were married in January of 1971, and have three children - Timothy, Carrie, and Andrew - and the Mendham couple also has four grandchildren. “And that’s really what summarizes my life, because my family is a big part of my life,” Herrmann says happily. “We’re still in close contact with our children. Some people have problems with their children and things like that. We don’t. It’s just been a great relationship and a great ride. And my wife and me? We really are best friends.”

When asked for a closing statement to describe the happiness in his life, Herrmann doesn’t hesitate. “That comes from being a Christian. My faith in Jesus Christ, that’s where it all starts.”

Don Herrmann with New Orleans Saints Mascot, Gumbo (credit: Anne Herrmann)

Presidential Visits Subject of Latest Zablocki Book

By Todd Neikirk

New Jersey is one of the oldest states in the country and has played an important role in American history. Peter S. Zablocki, Denville resident, has long been a student of the state’s importance. In his latest book, Presidential Visits to New Jersey: A History, the historian focuses on the American leaders who have come to the Garden State both to visit and to live.

Presidential history of the state begins with the nation’s first President, George Washington. However, Zablocki notes, “none of his time would count, nor could be talked about in my book, because it all happened as the General of Continental Armies during the American Revolution. New Jersey is often referred to as the ‘Crossroads of the Revolution’ or the ‘Cockpit of the Revolution,’ where a large portion of the War for Independence was fought.”

While Washington didn’t visit the state post-Revolution, several Presidents did. The biggest draw for many of the visiting commanders-in-chief was the Jersey Shore. Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan, Chester Arthur, and Benjamin Harrison were all fans of Cape May. The President most dedicated to the shore was Ulysses S. Grant, who built a home in Long Branch.

Zablocki says of the appeal of the shore, “It was just far enough from Washington D.C., yet close enough if the need arose to get back to the office. The areas of Long Branch and Cape May were also known for their exuberant hotels and inns which showcased the wealth and prestige of the upper class and thus catered perfectly to the Nation’s Executive.”

The writer does note that once New Jersey became a prominent tourist destination, Presidents seemed less

eager to visit. “It would not be until the rise of Atlantic City and its boardwalk in the latter part of the 19th century that the shore became a vacation destination for the middle class and working Americans, which coincided with the diminishing allure for Presidents to continue to come and vacation in the state.”

The country’s leaders didn’t just visit New Jersey for leisure, they did so for diplomatic reasons as well. Zablocki goes deep into the story of Abraham Lincoln’s visit to the state in 1860. The voters in New Jersey, at the time, were not big fans of Lincoln and he visited the area in an effort to win their trust.

Presidents have also come to the Garden State in times of crisis. In his new book, the author discusses Barack Obama’s efforts in New Jersey following the devastation of Hurricane Sandy.

Readers will also learn about those leaders with the closest ties to the state. Grover Cleveland did not spend much of his life in New Jersey, but was born there and died there as well. And Woodrow Wilson, once the President of Princeton University, was serving as the Governor of New Jersey when elected President in 1912 and had to resign his post.

In the 2010s, Donald Trump became the first President in many years to regularly visit New Jersey. The 45th President regularly spent weekends during his term at his country club in the town of Bedminster.

Read about all of these leaders in Presidential Visits to New Jersey: A History, which is available in both digital and paperback formats via Zablocki’s website: www. peterzablocki.com.

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1498 Sussex Tpke Colonial, 3BR, 1BA $330,000

176 Park Ave Bi-Level, 4BR, 2.1BA $425,000

3 Ellam Dr Split Level, 3BR, 2.0BA $436,000

50 Canfield Ave Ranch, 3BR, 2.0BA $425,000

121 Woodmont Dr

Multi Floor Unit, Townhouse-End Unit, 2BR, 2.2BA $489,000

270 Center Grove Rd

Cape Cod, Colonial, 3BR, 2.1BA $540,000

66 Morris Tpke Ranch, 3BR, 2.0BA $550,000

12 Albert Ct

Multi Floor Unit, Townhouse-End Unit, 2BR, 2.1BA $577,500

169 Dover Chester Rd Expanded Ranch, 4BR, 3.1BA $630,000

19 Old Chimney Rd Bi-Level, 4BR, 2.1BA $630,000

2 Old Chimney Rd Colonial, 5BR, 3.0BA $635,000

341 Center Grove Rd Colonial, Custom Home, 4BR, 3.1BA $720,000

29 Phyllis Pl Colonial, 4BR, 2.1BA $690,500

58 Musiker Ave Colonial, 4BR, 2.2BA $860,000

12 Orchard Dr Colonial, 4BR, 3.0BA $775,000

54 Park Ave Colonial, 4BR, 2.0BA $850,000

2 Nottingham Way Colonial, 5BR, 2.1BA $915,000

6 Cornell Dr Colonial, 5BR, 4.1BA $1,214,325