The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST - May 2019 Issue

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The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019

May 2019 www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com Founder, President, and Editor-in-Chief: Kevin L. Pattky, Jr. kevin.pattky@TheJeffersonChronicle.com

Deputy Editor: Lise Greene Senior Contributing Editor: Maria Weiskott Editor-at-Large: Sue Toth Contributing Writers/Photographers: Jane Primerano, April Leaver, Billie Burke, Tony Haryn, Janet Pfeiffer, Carol Punturieri, Ulla Vinkman, Danielle Yager Creative: CRK Advertising, Inc. www.CRKadvertising.com

Advertising Sales Representatives: Carene Kratzel 973-663-6766 ckratzel@CRKadvertising.com

Elisa DeYoung 973-464-6334 elisa.deyoung@TheJeffersonChronicle.com

Contact Information: newsroom@TheJeffersonChronicle.com feedback@TheJeffersonChronicle.com advertising@TheJeffersonChronicle.com The Jefferson Chronicle 973-384-1799

About the DIGEST: The Jefferson Chronicle was founded by lifelong resident Kevin L. Pattky, Jr. in 2016.

The Chronicle is Jefferson Township's only dedicated newsroom, publishing local news and information.

ConTEnTS Articles: Cause of Silt Pollution from Weldon Quarry Uncovered ................................................................4 Best of the Best Win Accolades at Jefferson Township Awards Dinner ................................7 Knights of Columbus: 55 Years of Service and One Special Honoree ................................................12 Local Grad's First Book Published..................................13 Milton First Aid Squad and Fire Company No. 1 Hone Skills ......................................14 For What It’s Worth ..................................................................5 Insights and Expertise ............................................................14

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST is published monthly by The Jefferson Chronicle, LLC, 7 Osage Trail, Oak Ridge, NJ 07438

J-Town Tidbits ..........................................................................16

©2019 by The Jefferson Chronicle, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Event Calendar ........................................................................18

No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher.

In Brief (short articles) ............................................................15 www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

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Update: Broken Pipe at Quarry Culprit in Siltation Problem

water to dampen material surfaces to keep the dust in check.

The paperwork indicates that the quarry entered into a settlement agreement with the DEP and paid a $2,250 penalty.

By Jane Primerano

Weldon said that he had not heard from the DEP about dust recently, but is always concerned about it. He emphasized that the chemicals added to the water sprayed for dust abateMayor Eric Wilsusen questions residents complaining about ment are safe silt in the lake. (Photo: Jane Primerano) and will not pollute the lake. He did not immediately return a phone call after the release of the DEP documents.

Weldon Quarry was cited with a violation notice on March 19 for a pipe with multiple leaks after inspectors from the state’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) observed silty water flowing from it. The siltation was first observed in February by residents off Prospect Point Road.

Quarry president Bob Weldon said inspectors found that the pipe leading from a detention basin was damaged. The broken pipe carried silt from the basin into a stream on the quarry property, which crosses under Prospect Point Road through a pipe that empties into the lake.

Wilsusen stated that the DEP agreed to check for dust at night.

The commission urged homeowners to encourage their neighbors to contact the DEP, which seems to respond better to multiple calls. Chair Ron Smith noted that the commission can contact Governor Phil Murphy, the three state senators, and six assembly members who represent the lake communities.

April/May SPECIAL “Once a Day”

Tim Clancy presents photos of siltation in the lake. (Photo: Jane Primerano)

According to Weldon, the old pipe was already installed when he bought the quarry in 1996. Because it goes through the woods, no one was likely to see the break except by explicitly checking on it. He will ensure regular inspections of the new pipe.

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At the Lake Hopatcong Commission meeting on April 8, resident Tim Clancy said that silt was still washing into the lake. “I got a water testing company and checked the turbidity after the rain,” he reported, adding that the total suspended solids were much higher than normal. Fish cannot spawn in such conditions, he asserted, and crayfish and snails will smother.

Clancy suggested that the quarry install silt curtains, which a DEP representative told him he had never heard of. “I have no faith in inspectors from the state,” said Clancy, claiming that they downplayed the spill and calling it “a catastrophic crime.”

In addition, Clancy displayed a number of photos allegedly taken from drones that appeared to show silt in the lake. “I can’t verify who took the photos from the drone – only the dates,” he said.

He also contended that the creek still contains diesel oil from a spill last year, attributing “most of the pollution coming into Lake Hopatcong [to] two bad actors in Hopatcong.” Weldon Quarry is primarily in Hopatcong, with small sections in Jefferson and Sparta.

Clancy and resident Louis Tarascio also complained about continued dust from the quarry. According to documents released by the DEP to The Chronicle, the quarry was cited on May 24, 2018, for visible emissions from the facility and ordered to use 4

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The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019

For What It’s Worth

My Mom

By Tony Haryn

It’s been 20 years since my mom passed. When my sister and I talk about her, we break down in tears – and, most of the time, break into laughter over the things she used to say and do.

Mom had some foibles that to this day we can’t explain.

You know how the favorite kid food for many people was a peanut butter and jelly sandwich? Well, my sister and I never had one until we moved out of the house. You see, Mom put peanut butter in the refrigerator, giving it the consistency of cement. It would take two days to become smooth, so we did not bother making PB&J sandwiches. We tried to explain this, but she stood her ground.

Talking of standing her ground, Mom was the law in the house.

Dad may have been big and scary looking, but he never raised his hands to us. When he gave us “that look,” we knew we were in trouble and not to do it again. On the other hand, Mom (all five feet of her) came after us with whatever was in her hands at the time – wooden soup spoon, broom, a school history book – and had a look that scared the hell out of us. My sister and I called her the Screaming Skull. She would laugh at that … and then hit us.

When Dad came home from work, he would ask Mom, “Were the kids good today?” She would just say, “I took care of it!” and Dad said nothing.

When Mom was dying of lung cancer, I was with her every day after work. As I reached for some M&Ms, she told me supper would be ready in a few minutes, but I reached anyway. She snatched the candy dish, climbed a stool, and put it on the top shelf of a cabinet. I laughed and noted that I could reach up there with no problem. She grabbed a wooden spoon, stood in front of me, and said, “Not with a broken hand, you can’t.” I was 46 years old, but she was still the boss!

Mom also had a way of knowing what was going to happen before it happened. As I left the apartment, she would yell out not to run down the stairs or I would fall. Sure enough, I would hit the first step and slide down the next flight of stairs flat on my back. I always cringed when she asked how my car was.

Sure enough, the car would break down or have a flat. The best was the day I walked down the stairs to go on a date, ran into a stranger who did not belong in our building, and figured it was him or me. Then I heard Mom call down the hall, “Anthony, do you have enough money for tonight?” I assumed I was about to get mugged, but the stranger turned and ran. He must have heard about my mom, and didn’t want to fight her!

When the superintendent told Mom that the hot water would be turned off for repairs, she said to Dad and me, “We can fill the tub with hot water tonight so we will have it for tomorrow morning.”

Dad and I looked at each other and laughed for an hour! That was my mom: a heart of gold and the enforcer. I miss the touch of her hand and the smile on her face to this day.

To all you grandmothers, mothers, and soon-to-be moms, I wish you a happy Mother’s Day. www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

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The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019

Mayor Eric Wilsusen with Citizen of the Year winner Janet Boetticher.

Best of the Best Win Accolades at Jefferson Township Awards Dinner

By April Leaver

The Jefferson Township Chamber of Commerce Awards Dinner evolved this year to incorporate the Citizen of the Year designation.

Mayor Eric Wilsusen noted that former mayor Russell Felter established the Citizen of the Year in 2000, and the announcement was made at Jefferson Day each summer. With the recent change in format for that event and chamber president Bret Hartman’s wish to include the designation in the organization’s annual community recognition event, the current Citizen of the Year was announced at the re-titled Jefferson Township Awards Dinner.

The event, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on April 11 at Casa Bianca in Oak Ridge, was attended by members of the chamber as well as local dignitaries. Christopher Brancato served as master of ceremonies.

Public Servant of the Year award recipients Kristine Wilsusen and the Municipal Alliance.

Citizen of the Year Wilsusen had requested nominations from the community for the annual Mayor’s Citizen of the Year award. Council member Kim Finnegan nominated Janet Boetticher, this year’s recipient.

Boetticher has been a Sunday school teacher, Camp Aldersgate volunteer counselor, and youth group leader for Hurdtown The Jefferson Chronicle’s April Leaver presenting the Business of the Year award to Portofino Ristorante.

continued on page 8

Educator of the Year winner David DeVries with Jefferson Schools Supervisor of Social Studies, Fine Arts, and Technology Education Daniel Papa.

The Jefferson Arts Committee, recipient of the Nonprofit of the Year award.

(Photos by Ulla Vinkman) www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

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Jefferson Township Awards Dinner (cont’d.)

United Methodist Church. She volunteers with Family Promise, a charity that helps homeless and low-income families, and Operation Christmas Child, which delivers toy-filled holiday shoeboxes to children around the world. In addition, Boetticher is a volunteer coordinator for NORWESCAP, a nonprofit organization serving low-income residents. She started a Girl Scout troop in conjunction with NORWESCAP’s Pathways 2 Prosperity program and has volunteered as a troop leader for 20 years. Boetticher also serves with the Jefferson Township Municipal Alliance, JT Connect, high school parent-teacher-student association, and Jefferson Child Care and Education Center.

Lifetime Achievement

Former Mayor Russ Felter receiving his Lifetime Achievement award from chamber president Bret Hartman.

It was no surprise to most attendees when Russ Felter was presented with the Lifetime Achievement award.

Ray Fernandez spoke about Felter’s many years of commitment. His numerous contributions include service on the Town Council, Planning Board, Morris County Republican Committee, and Lake Hopatcong Commission.

He was also the director of public safety.

Felter was instrumental in acquiring a great deal of open space in Jefferson, including land used for the new Liffy Island boardwalk and trail. He was involved in establishing senior housing in Oak Ridge, supporting Dial-a-Ride, and volunteering for senior services. In addition, he got Camp Jefferson off the ground, improved recreational fields, and added lighting. Felter’s support for veterans is evidenced by the veterans and 9/11 memorial at the municipal complex.

Last and certainly not least, Felter served as Jefferson’s mayor for a whopping 20 years. Fernandez joked that Felter is very young to receive a “lifetime” achievement award, but having dedicated 24 years to the service of Jefferson Township, he is truly deserving of the honor. Felter told The Jefferson Chronicle, “I am going to continue to serve the town in various ways; it’s who I am.”

Public Servant of the Year The Public Servant of the Year award was presented by chamber vice president John Tully to Kristine Wilsusen and the Municipal Alliance. Wilsusen has been the community health educator since 1993 and chairs the Municipal Alliance. She is a founding member of JT Connect, was instrumental in bringing the “stigma free” designation to Jefferson, and is active in the Mayors Wellness Campaign. Wilsusen was vital in establishing the town’s Center for Addiction Recovery, Education, and Success, making Jefferson the first New Jersey town to have a CARES drop-in center (weekly coffee and conversation at the rescue squad building on Route 15 South).

Wilsusen is also a religious education teacher at Star of the Sea Church. She thanked her mentor, Debi Merz, and fellow volunteers, including Janet Boetticher. continued on page 9 8

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019

continued from page 8

Nonprofit of the Year

The State of Jefferson

Jason Nicholas presented the Nonprofit of the Year honor to the Jefferson Arts Committee. The committee was formed in 1987 and coordinates events such as Jefferson Fest, Christmas in the Village, the free summer concert series at the municipal gazebo, and bus trips to theater events. Performance organizations under the umbrella of the committee include the Community Players, Community Chorus, and Community Concert and Jazz Bands. Carol Punturieri, president of the Jefferson Arts Committee, thanked Jack Kelly, who founded the organization.

She encouraged others to volunteer to ensure the continuation of these enriching activities.

Mayor Eric Wilsusen spoke about the state of Jefferson and projects that are under way. His team is working on streamlining processes, including the implementation of new municipal management software. The public will have easier access to records and be able to request road repairs online once the system is up and running.

Educator of the Year David DeVries, high school visual art/photography teacher, received the Educator of the Year award. DeVries took the opportunity to announce a joint project with the Chamber of Commerce and his students, who are well versed in Photoshop and can create posters and brochures. The students will provide free services to local businesses, with grades for their efforts. Wearing business-appropriate attire, they will interview store owners and determine their needs, helping them to prepare for real-world experiences while assisting Jefferson establishments. The proposal drew gasps of appreciation and applause from the crowd.

Business of the Year Portofino Ristorante was awarded the Business of the Year designation for its dedication and commitment to the township through, for example, sponsorships and the Jefferson Rotary.

Mary Milliken accepted the award on behalf of owner Mendi Asani, who was not available due to a recent birth in the family.

Plans for the proposed medical building at the former Pathmark site in Lake Hopatcong will be presented to the Planning Board shortly. Designs for a Wawa convenience store and gas station at the front of the property are not yet scheduled with the board.

Wilsusen acknowledged residents’ preference for a supermarket at that location. However, there was no interest from retailers due to current demographics and proximity to other planned mega-supermarkets nearby.

New apartments will be built on Hellers Lane behind the QuickChek on Route 15. The Betsy Ross Diner will move soon to its new location in Oak Ridge.

A Winning End to the Awards Dinner After the ceremonies, there were door prizes and a 50/50. The pot was won by Father Matthew Twiggs of Oak Ridge, who donated his prize to David DeVries to assist with the new student project.

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

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The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

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Knights of Columbus Celebrates 55 Years of Community Service and Honors Jack Kelly

By Billie Burke

Since its founding in 1964, the Knights of Columbus Joseph F. Lamb Council 5510 has endeavored to serve the community through charity, unity, faith, and patriotism. On April 7, the knights, families, friends, and community leaders gathered to celebrate the council’s 55 years of service.

Father Dawid Zajecki, acting chaplain, led in prayer. Deputy grand knight Joseph O’Donnell thanked Charlie Miele and Joseph Ozniak, along with all other past grand knights, for their leadership and guidance. He told The Jefferson Chronicle that the best way to describe the knights and their work is “faith in action.”

The Knights of Columbus are also patriotic. After the guests enjoyed a meal and the music of D. J. Earl, recorder and past grand knight Mike Murphy explained the symbolism of an empty chair, which represented prisoners of war and those missing in action, and a small round table with its contents (a white tablecloth, red rose, yellow candle, slice of lemon, pinch of salt, black napkin, inverted wine glass, Bible, and American flag).

Honored Guest The highlight of the evening was honoring one member for his influential and inspiring dedication to Jefferson Township: Jack Kelly. He is often described as a humble man of honor. At 90

years young, he exudes energy and grace. As a member of the Knights for 20 years, he has strived to make Jefferson a better place.

In 2000, Kelly was honored by former mayor Russell Felter as the first Citizen of the Year. Among his numerous volunteer positions, Kelly was president of the library’s Board of Trustees, regional coordinator of Morris County Citizens for Open Space, and a member of the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, and Park Commission.

A special interest for Kelly is the Department for Persons with Disabilities, an outreach of Catholic Charities.

In 2004, a street Jack Kelly is congratulated by past grand knights. at the DPD’s (Photo: Danielle Yager) Wiegand Farm facility on Weldon Road was named Kelly Way in his honor. “It felt nice,” he acknowledged with a wide smile, stating that much can be accomplished with a group of people who have positive attitudes.

Kelly was presented with multiple awards to commemorate his dedication to Jefferson Township and selfless giving to veterans, people with disabilities, and those in need. Mayor Eric Wilsusen described him as “always a gentleman, always a treasure. Jack’s six decades of service have solidified him as an influential member of the community and exemplified what community service means.”

Jack Kelly’s family came out to support his honoring at the Knights of Columbus 55th anniversary celebration. (Photo: Danielle Yager)

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Kelly expressed surprise at the turnout and appreciation for the Knights of Columbus. Humorous and self-deprecating, he accepted the award as a deep honor, acknowledging that “none of this would be possible without the people who make things happen.” Kelly’s colorful commentary highlighting his 20 years of service with the organization was met with laughter and cheers.

Ending his speech with thanks to his wife, Rose, for her support and inspiration, Kelly was rewarded with a standing ovation.

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019

Jefferson Township High School Graduate’s First Book Published

By Jane Primerano

As a little girl growing up in Jefferson, Jenna Ryan started writing stories on Post-It notes to show to her parents. Now she has published one book and is working on a second. Her first, The Channeler, was launched on January 18 by TCK Publishing.

Ryan’s mother is a teacher, and she credits her father with helping her to become “invested in the fictional world” by reading the entire Harry Potter and Eragon series to her. She acknowledges her large Irish-Italian family as her greatest supporters.

Ryan took a creative writing class during her sophomore year at Jefferson Township High School. Her teacher, Alice Daken, encouraged her after reading a particular story she had written. “She told me if writing stories is my passion, I am going to be someone’s favorite author some day,” said Ryan.

She graduated in 2012 and enrolled at Montclair State University, deciding against a major in English and writing because she didn’t want to get “frustrated.” After graduating in 2016 with a major in sociology and a minor in environmental justice, she took a position as a paralegal at Pellegrino and Feldstein in Denville. Her particular interest is environmental law.

As a college junior, Ryan started to work on a trilogy she had thought about since age 13. She researched publishers and agents and hired a freelance editor. TCK accepted her manuscript and signed her to the three books.

Ryan explained that The Channeler is about a psychic college student who has visions of angels and aliens.

One vision is of a girl who then walks into his life. The book was launched at the Grasshopper Irish Pub in Newfoundland, and the new author is looking into venues for book signings.

Jenna Ryan, pictured.

(Photo provided by Jenna Ryan)

The Channeler can be purchased through Barnes & Noble or Amazon. Ryan’s website is https://jennaryanink.com/books.

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Insights and Expertise:

Living Your Best Life Ever

Five Easy Steps to Inner Peace

Milton First Aid Squad and Fire Company No. 1 Hone Their Skills

By Ulla Vinkman Engine 722 in front of the Public Safety Training Academy facility.

(Photo: Ulla Vinkman)

By Janet Pfeiffer

The late Dr. Wayne Dyer stated, “There is no way to peace.

Peace is the way.” He challenges us to see peace as a way of life rather than a destination. Those who are serene make distinctly different choices in how they live. Here are five steps to create a more peaceful life.

1. Refrain from judging. Judging others is arrogant and self-righteous when we assign value to individuals based on looks, intelligence, social recognition, etc. Labeling some as less worthy, wrong, or bad creates a hierarchy of value leading to conflict and difficulty between parties. Native American philosophy states, “Do not judge me until you have walked a mile in my shoes.” Acceptance is a much wiser choice.

2. Be grateful. In all that you do, no matter how insignificant, find something to be thankful for. Gratitude wards off bitterness and resentment and allows joy to flourish. It enables us to find value in every situation, including hardship, loss, and betrayal.

Repeat: “I am at peace with all that is. Everything is exactly as it is meant to be in this moment.”

3. Reevaluate. Put everything into perspective. Very little that occurs in life is worthy of distress. Situations only have the degree of importance we assign them. Ask yourself, “Will this matter in 10 years?” If the answer is “no,” let it go. In doing so, we eliminate worry, fear, anxiety, anger, and other stressful emotions. What appears to be damaging may eventually reveal itself to be a great blessing. Look beyond the obvious to the value within.

4. Be kind. In any situation, we have the option to be either kind or mean-spirited. Choosing kindness shows respect, values the other party, uplifts, inspires, encourages, and heals. Being polite enables us to feel good about ourselves. Even when others are rude, extend respect. Be the example to which others aspire.

5. Live for God or a higher purpose. Many people make decisions based on what feels good or what is right for them. Living to serve God or to aid humanity gives a deeper meaning to life.

It broadens our concerns beyond the self to consider equally the rights and needs of others. It allows us to make righteous choices that bring long-term and far-reaching benefits. Living life with high moral integrity decreases mistakes, engenders feelings of fellowship among us, and supports thoughtful, peaceful living.

On a cold Tuesday night in March, while most people were in their warm homes, members of Jefferson Township Fire Company No. 1 (JTFD#1) and the Milton First Aid Squad (MFAS) were at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy.

The volunteers were practicing their skills in fire suppression, hose advancement, and fire rehab.

Working in teams, the first group of firefighters practiced entering the building with the full hose and maneuvering in the dark, smoky building to attack the flames. The Captain Jeremy Reed having his blood pressure measured in “fire rehab”. (Photo: Ulla Vinkman) second group climbed a ladder to gain access to the roof and find a point of entry, tasked with searching for victims.

After each training evolution, or set, the firefighters went to the rehab area set up by the MFAS to have their vitals checked – blood pressure, pulse, and respiration – before receiving hydration and nourishment. They needed to be cleared by emergency medical services personnel before resuming duty.

When driving, we must always pay careful attention while navigating the roadways so as not to lose our way or cause harm to any living creature. Choosing a peaceful life likewise requires acute awareness of the decisions we make – always opting for those that are kind, loving, fair, and cause no harm to others.

It is not hard and well worth the effort. Remember, peace is not a destination; peace is the way.

“Peace isn’t the absence of fighting; peace is the presence of kindness.” ~ The Secret Side of Anger by Janet Pfeiffer 14

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019

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In Brief

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Healthy Town in the Making Jefferson was named one of three New Jersey “Healthy Towns in the Making” for 2018. The designation is part of the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s Mayors Wellness Campaign (MWC), in partnership with the New Jersey State League of Municipalities.

Firefighters Mark Kraljevich and Jeff Kerr monitoring the water levels.

(Photo: Ulla Vinkman)

The training sessions were conducted under the watchful eye of JTFD#1 assistant chief Ray Cabrera Sr. and MFAS assistant chief Frank Parete. The firefighters train at the academy several times a year and at their own facility twice a month.

Firefighters being monitored during “fire rehab.” The Milton First Aid Squad checks each firefighter’s blood pressure, pulse, and respiration, and then provides hydration and nourishment.

(Photo: Ulla Vinkman)

Communities participating in the 12th annual MWC completed a comprehensive application outlining their research to identify community health needs, explaining how they have organized their local committee, and highlighting actions taken to make the community a healthier place to live, work, and play.

In Jefferson, a robust community needs assessment was conducted by the Health Department. Hypertension and obesity were identified as top concerns, which can be addressed through activities such as the Hike for Hope and Bike and Trike.

Hike for Hope, a suicide prevention program and fundraiser, raises awareness about mental health and connects people to resources, ultimately reducing the stigma of mental illness.

During the Bike and Trike, police officers and members of the rescue squads educate residents on bike and pedestrian safety.

Approximately 400 residents attended local Mayors Wellness Campaign events last year. “With all the open space and lake communities within our borders, our motto for many years has been The Recreation Capital of New Jersey,” said Mayor Eric Wilsusen. “We look forward to making Jefferson a healthier community!”

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

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By Carol Punturieri and Lise Greene

J-Town Tidbits Jefferson Tidbit #1 Jefferson’s new mayor, Eric Wilsusen, has set up an official Facebook page to help keep residents informed about issues and events that concern the community. The mayor’s page can be used in conjunction with the township’s Facebook page.

Readers may post messages or click on a link to send email directly to the mayor. Visit the two pages at: “Eric Wilsusen-Mayor of Jefferson Twp NJ” (www.facebook.com/mayorjeffersontownship) “Jefferson Township” (www.facebook.com/JeffersonMunicipalOffices)

Jefferson Tidbit #2 Why are there six different ZIP codes for Jefferson?

The township is part of Morris County and has two main sections: Lake Hopatcong (with its own code, 07849) and Milton (shares a code, 07438, with Oak Ridge … in Passaic County).

Some residents who live on the outskirts are assigned codes for Newfoundland (07435, Passaic County), Glasser (07837, Sussex County), Stockholm (07460, Sussex County), and Wharton (07885, Morris County) – even though they do not actually reside in the town associated with that code. Even more oddly, Lake Shawnee also has a Wharton code, despite its being surrounded entirely by the Lake Hopatcong section. Confusing?

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A bit of background: Five-digit ZIP (Zone Improvement Plan) codes were introduced in 1963 to help mail travel more efficiently (“zip” along). The first digit represents a group of states, while the second and third represent a region within that group.

The final two represent a group of delivery addresses within the region. In 1983, four optional digits were added to identify a geographic segment (city block, group of apartments, post office box, etc.).

As communities develop, the subsequent increase in mail volume sometimes warrants adding or realigning codes to ensure the continuation of efficient and cost-effective service – not to maintain a town’s identity. According to a postal service spokesperson, ZIP codes are “closely aligned to postal sorting and delivery operations, which are not necessarily the same as municipal or perceived community boundaries.”

Complicating the local situation, Jefferson has several sections that began as summer destinations without home mail delivery.

As the population expanded, it appears that the geographically closest post offices began delivery. According to town historian Richard Willis, Lake Hopatcong did not establish home delivery until around the 1950s … and according to Mayor Eric Wilsusen, Lake Shawnee’s mail was already being delivered at that time through the Wharton post office.

“There have been efforts over the years to move Lake Shawnee to Lake Hopatcong, most recently in 2016,” said Wilsusen. “At the request of some residents, a survey was taken by the US Postal Service, but the majority did not want the change.”

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019

In Brief (cont’d.)

Superheroes Took Their Marks and Ran

By Ulla Vinkman

The 3-mile runners are off! (Photo: Ulla Vinkman)

The first annual Lake Shawnee Superhero 3-6-9 Run took place on March 30 – a cloudy and cool Saturday, perfect for the morning event. Participants showed up in their capes, costumes, and makeup, ready to run (or walk) the 3-, 6-, and 9-mile courses.

The event, organized by Dina Troha and Kristeen McConnon, raised more than $3,000. Funds will support the new Lake Shawnee Scholarship, which is open to Jefferson students entering college or trade school who exemplify the traits of service to others and volunteerism. Applications are available at the high school or by emailing LakeShawneeSuperhero369@gmail.com.

The race drew 168 runners and walkers. The scenic courses, organized by NJ Trail Series, went around Lake Shawnee and through surrounding areas. The 6- and 9-mile runners completed two laps of their courses.

The morning began with warm-up exercises led by Black Bear Fitness and continued with stretching led by Tru Nature Yoga.

The festive atmosphere was enhanced by music, lawn games, a photo booth, 50/50, and awards given to the runners and teams.

This event was the first in Mayor Eric Wilsusen’s new wellness campaign. He was on site to cheer the runners and walkers, and helped to direct traffic as a part of the township’s Office of Emergency Management. Members of the police and rescue departments were also on hand.

Participants offered variations on the same sentiment: “We had a great time and can’t wait to come back next year!”

Runners as they are finishing their first laps.

(Photo: Ulla Vinkman)

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

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Event Calendar Events are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.

LH = Lake Hopatcong OR = Oak Ridge

Event

Date/Time

Where

JT Historical Society Membership Meeting

Thurs., May 16, 7-9 p.m.

973-697-8675

Milton First Aid Squad AHA Heartsaver CPR/AED Class

Sat., May 18, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

45 Milton Rd., OR Sign up: chief@miltonfirstaidsquad.org

1031 Weldon Rd., LH

Hike for Hope with JT Connect Sat., May 18, 9 a.m.

Register/donate: https://afsp.donordrive.com/event/JTCHike St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church Garage Sale

81 Weldon Rd., LH

Sat., May 18, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

153 Milton Rd., OR Reserve a table/info: 973-697-7964

First Contact Film Festival Sat., May 18, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

(Horror/Sci-Fi/Fantasy Genres) Admission $10

81 Weldon Rd., LH

Bowling for Hayden’s House of Healing

Sun., May 19, 12-2 p.m.

47 Center St., Sparta $15 (includes bowling/shoe rental 2 hours)

Line Dancing for Seniors Camp Jefferson

Tues., May 21, 10 a.m.

973-663-8404 x5

JT Municipal Alliance Vaping Program

Thurs., May 23, 7-9 p.m. www.jeffersonlibrary.net

1031 Weldon Rd., LH

Mommy/Daddy and Me Yoga JT Library

Tues., May 28, 10 a.m. www.jeffersonlibrary.net

1031 Weldon Rd., LH

Line Dancing for Seniors Camp Jefferson

Tues., May 28, 10 a.m.

973-663-8404 x5

The Carnival JT Middle School

Wed.-Sat., May 29-June 1 1000 Weldon Rd., OR 6-10 p.m., free entry, wristbands onsite $30, individual ride tickets

JT Farmers Market Firemen’s Field

Sundays, June 2-October 27 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 973-919-5657

Milton UM Church Golf outing Mon., June 3, 7:30 a.m.

Bowling Green Golf Club 973-697-3194

81 Weldon Rd., LH

81 Weldon Rd., LH

750 Rt. 15 South, LH

53 School House Rd., OR

Annual network on the Lake Bridge Marina

Thurs., June 27, 6-8 p.m., 89 Brady Rd., LH Register: http://bit.ly/2019NetworkOnLakeHopatcong

Wild and Scenic Film Festival The Growing Stage Theatre

Sat., July 13, 6-9 p.m. 7 Ledgewood Ave., Netcong Free entry, registration required, 973-663-2500

Jefferson Fest III Food Truck Festival/Concert/Fireworks

Sat., July 13, starts 5 p.m.

1010 Weldon Rd., OR JT High School, free entry, www.jeffersonarts.org

Event Calendar Post your event online* FREE: www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com/events *Selected events will be printed in the DIGEST.

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The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019

Direct: 973-907-4938 juliatorsielloc21@gmail.com

f?VL : *%( ?L(?? OI * 4*OS Ǫ 2 $$ LO?: S`I L O* :SƠ * TRUSTED * RESPECTED * KNOW N LEDGEABLE * HONEST * * AWARD WINNI N NG AGENT * * #1 CENTURY 21 OFFICE IN NORTHERN NEW JERS JERSE SEY * 4 È ­ ½ËÈ ­â á½ À ® Ɯ ç ¨¨Ã v® ȳ³¨Ã ȳ ܳÀ§ ³À f?VƠ 165 East Main Street භ Rockawaay, NJ 07866 භ 973-627-6800 භ ww ww w.JuliaTorsiello.com

Mortgage Specialist & Jefferson Twp Re esident Direct: 973-900-0985 Ɣ jrock@lendingnj.com * FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS * SECOND & INVESTMENTS * * CASH OUT REFI/HELO L C * GOOD CREDIT/BAD CREDIT *

` vÛ Ã³­ È ® ³À Û Àâ³® Ơ ¨¨³Ü ­ ȳ v®ÃÜ À â³ËÀ ¿Ë ÃÈ ³®Ã ȳ vâ www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

48 Woodport Rd, Sparta, NJ 07871 www.lendingnj.com

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The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • May 2019