EAST HANOVER FLORHAM PARK
BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER
EAST HANOVER - For Dave
Caputo and his wife Charlene, and as well for the many Caputo’s Homemade Ice Cream customers, it was a tasty and heartwarming way to finish off a humid Saturday evening.
Caputo was running the register on August 2 when a familiar face bought an ice cream cone and paid for it. But it was what happened next that surprised Caputo.
“He looked at me,” Caputo said regarding the customer, “and he said, ‘I want you to be a success, and I do not want you to leave. I want you to stay.’” More to come.
A year ago, the Caputos were in Point Pleasant sitting outside an ice cream shoppe when the light bulb went on.
Caputo said, “We looked at
each other and basically said, ‘We can do something like this. We are entrepreneurial. Let us get the ball rolling.’” The Caputos did so, and 100% homemade ice cream with all the best ingredients was it. Caputo said, “We did not want to start like a real estate company or insurance company. We wanted to start something that was fun and do our best to create a hometown feel. We greet all our customers. We create a lot of smiles and a lot of laughter.”
And that goodwill is reciprocal, and it was most evident on Saturday evening, August 2. Caputo’s Homemade Ice Cream had the usual summertime full house of weekend evening customers. Caputo said, “Me, my wife,
Florham Park Rotary 5th Annual Halloween Dog Parade and Costume Contest
FLORHAM PARK - It’s time
to start searching for, or making your annual Halloween costume - for your dog! The Florham Park Rotary 4th Annual Halloween Dog Parade and Costume Contest is set for October 25, 2025. This fun event will be held at the Florham Park Gazebo and Borough Lawn from 1-3 p.m. It’s hosted by the Florham Park Rotary with Pets Supplies Plus of Florham Park providing support once again.
As many as 60 dogs dressed in costume have competed in the 6 categories, teamed with their owners. Categories include Cutest, Scariest, Most Creative, Funniest, and Best Overall. With family, friends and neighbors, 150-200 onlookers have enjoyed the event annually. Residents from all surrounding communities are welcome to this fun outdoor event whether they have dogs or not. The success of these fundraisers allowed Florham Park Rotary to award five $1,000 scholarship awards to students who have shown a commitment to volunteerism. Florham Park Seniors in local high
schools demonstrating their commitment to volunteerism in Florham Park and local communities can submit applications through their High School counselors. Students should plan to contact their school counselors this January.
Dog Registration fee is $25 (in advance) or $30 at the Event. Advance tickets may be purchased at the Florham Park Diner or via the QR Code. 50/50 Raffle Tickets for $10 each will also be available at the event. Attendance is free so come and enjoy the parade, people- and dog-watching, and see the fun costumes worn by contestants! Questions? Phone (973) 520-8654 or Email pnicolas@ optimum.net or info@florhamparkrotary.org.
Winner from September’s “Find Hank the Hornet Mascot” Contest
DAlia; East Hanover, Muno Jayaraman; East Hanover, Lidia Esposito; Florham Park and Ant Restaino; East Hanover. The ads that “Hank the Hornet” were in: Spicy Chef, East Hanover community Partnership, Amish Mike, Omaha Steaks, Hancliffe Home for Funerals and Window Works. Thanks to everyone who enter and congratulations to our winners!
and our employees were working the counter and serving customers. We had probably about 12 or 13 people in the line, and the line was moving pretty quickly, and this man was next. It was his turn to buy ice cream.”
The man, who is now a regular customer by sight but not by name, after paying for his treat, said (as was previously mentioned above) to Caputo, “I want you to be a success, and I do not want you to leave. I want you to stay.” He then pulled out a fresh $100 bill, handed it to the owner, and said, “Use this to pay for everyone in the store that’s waiting.”
Caputo asked him, “Are you sure?” And he responded, “Yes.”
Customers kept entering, so the man tried to pay for as
many people as possible. Caputo’s expressed his thanks again in an August 4 Facebook post: I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend. A beautiful thing happened Saturday night at Caputo‘s Homemade Ice Cream, 424 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover, New Jersey. A gentleman walked in, bought himself a small ice cream, and then proceeded to give me another hundred-dollar bill and said, “Use this to pay for everyone in the store that’s waiting.” He walked out quickly before anyone was able to thank him. If that gentleman is reading this Facebook and Instagram post everyone in the store said thank you.
Caputo said, “It makes me feel very relieved that there are good people out there.”
Presentations
BY PETER NICOLAS GUEST WRITER
by
the
Good Samaritan Cools Off Ice Cream Shop Customers with $100 Gift Purchase
Historical Society of Florham Park - Save the Dates!
FLORHAM PARK - The Historical Society of Florham Park is scheduling another two great presentations this year – one in October and one in November – both events free and open to the public.
NJ AND THE MEDAL OF HONOR - Author Peter Zablocki returns to Florham Park to reveals the harrowing stories of New Jersey’s most valorous moments in the defense of our nation and freedom around the world.
Awarded by the President of the United States in the name of Congress, the Medal of Honor commemorates those who have shaped our nation’s history and continue to inspire its future with their acts of valor, humanity, patriotism, and sacrifice. New Jersey has been credited
Essex
with ninety-three honors in the state’s military history.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14 at 7 pm, with 6:30 pm refreshments provided by Delaney at the Green.
Florham Park Library - Akhoury Room and via Zoom HISTORY OF THE ARMED FORCES OF AMER-
ICA – Author Walter Choroszewski returns to Florham Park to present America’s military from its Colonial beginning to the Armed Forces of today.
In the Spring of 1775 American colonies were forced to defend themselves against a tyrannical government and this began the fight for freedom. The American Revolution for independence was won and the United States formally established Armed Forces for de-
fense on land and sea.
You may wish to plan to attend this presentation as part of your Veterans Day observances says Dr. Robert Newhouse, WWII Veteran, Bronze Star recipient and a member of The Historical Society of Florham Park.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 at 7 pm, with 6:30 pm refreshments provided by Delaney at the Green. Florham Park Library - Akhoury Room and via Zoom
Please register ahead of time to ensure enough seats and pastries for each event.
Registration can be done at florhamparklib.org/events or by calling the library at (973) 377-2694. A confirmation email will give registrants the option to attend either in-per-
son at the Library or via the Zoom link should you wish to attend remotely.
The Historical Society of Florham Park is offering this as a hybrid program, ie, people may attend this free program either at the Florham Park Library or remotely, via Zoom. Follow the registration information provided above.
County Woman Debuts Film at Virginia’s Richmond International Film Festival
BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER
AREA - Emily Draper, a former Essex County resident who now calls New York City home, debuted her first film at the Richmond International Film Festival this past September.
Draper’s film, Sorority Court, follows the story of Katie, Gamma Gamma Delta’s disgraced former president, as she defends herself before her sisters when she’s accused of stealing from the chapter house. As Katie struggles to get her alibi straight, her legacy in the chapter, her relationship with her best friend Aminah, and her ability to graduate are all in jeopardy.
The film stars Sarah Coffey, Kuhoo Verma, Mia Rose Kavensky, Carolyn Kang and Lori Laing. It is Draper’s directional debut.
Parts of her film stem from her own sorority experiences while she was a student at The College of William & Mary.
““I have never seen my sorority experience depicted accurately in media. The truth is, I met a lot of really, really cool women during my sorority time. There are absolutely conflicts, there are absolutely conflicts like the one in this film, but I also met women who are so dynamic and interesting and funny, and I’ve
never seen that in media, and I knew that this was a gap in the sorority flick market that I wanted to fill,” Draper said.
The film was completely crowdfunded by friends, family, and acquaintances of Draper.
“I’m a self-taught filmmaker, so this project was really a raw will kind of thing.
I had hundreds of old friends, colleagues, and students who gave to the crowdfunding campaign. I am just so humbled and grateful that so many people made it possible for me to produce this,” Draper said.
While William & Mary is based in Williamsburg, Richmond is only an hour drive north. Getting the opportunity to bring the film back to the area that started it all, Draper embraced the experience.
“It’s a real special privilege.
Going to college at William & Mary, I always thought Richmond was the coolest town and I honestly still think that. It means a lot to me to be able to bring it to a group of people who made the film possible,” Draper said. Draper also had the opportunity to participate in a talk back with the audience after the screening, sharing how proud she was to take the stage with other talented Virginia-based filmmakers.
“I’m so pleased and honored that they make this special section of the festival for Virginia stories. It’s such an honor to have had this Virginia story to return to Virginia
Charlene and Dave Caputo (courtesy of Dave Caputo)
Hanover Park High School Senior Named National FBLA Champion
BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER
HANOVER PARK - Hanover Park High School senior, Daniel Amalfitano, in June placed first at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, California.
Amalfitano, who won in the Accounting 1 category, is an intern at Alan J. Preis, CPA PC in Florham Park.
Jamie Ott, who is Amalfitano’s Hanover Park High School FBLA advisor, said, “Daniel is an excellent student and even better gentleman. He is just a mature kid who is always engaged in class conversation, and even stops and thinks about
what is going on in the classroom and in the real world. He then connects those dots with questions and comments that just make you say, ‘Wow, this is just one of those reasons you get into teaching: for a kid who is not only smart and inquisitive to begin with, but then also respectful and courteous and interesting to listen to.’ He is a kid you can have a conversation with; just a super, all-around great kid and great student.”
Amalfitano, who is a member of his school’s Stock Market Investment Club, Mock Trial Team, and The Hornet’s Sting, the school literary magazine,
said that when his name was announced as the winner during the Awards of Excellence Ceremony on the conference’s final day, he recalled the hard work and preparation that went into the event.
“A week or two before, I had started studying online,” Amalfitano said. “There is a lot of online resources that you could use for studying for the FBLA events, so I was just using the online resources to help me get ready for the competition. Then we took the flight over to Anaheim, and for the first two days after I spent a lot of it just studying. It all paid off.”
New Jersey Gymnast Crowned US National Champion
BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER
AREA - Hezly Rivera, a 17 year old gymnast from Oradell, has earned herself another accolade: USA Gymnastics 2025 National Champion. Rivera, who most notably competed as the youngest member of Team USA during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, started gymnastics at the age of five. She had attended a friends birthday party at a local gymnastics facility and fell in love.
While working her way through the ranks, Rivera has had the opportunity to represent the United States internationally at the 2022 DTB Pokal Cup in Germany, the 2023 Junior World Championships in Turkey, the 2024 Jesolo Trophy in Italy, and the 2025 Senior Pan American Championships in Panama.
She was a key member of the 2024 Paris Olympics Women’s Gymnastics team that won a team gold medal. During the National Championship competition in August, Rivera had a strong showing on balance beam, floor exercise, and uneven bars. She was the all-around leader after the first day of competition. Scores from the first day of competition are carried over to the second day and after the second round of
competition, both days scores are added together for the final outcome.
Rivera earned the all-around win with a final score of 112.000 to claim victory. It is her first senior national championship title. She is the youngest champion since 2017.
“It means the world to me to take this national championship title home because I have worked so hard for this. It was not easy coming back after the Olympics. I took some time off, but did so much work in the gym, blood, sweat, and tears, so I am just so grateful that I am here today,” Rivera said in an NBC Sports interview after her win.
Debuts Film...
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and I’d been really excited to see the other Virginia stories. It was so exciting to see how other Virginia experiences were brought to life,” Draper said. Draper also shared some insight for those who may want to enter the filmmaking industry.
“You don’t have to do this alone, and actually, you probably can’t do it alone. You will be more successful with a village behind you. There were so many unknowns when I began this project and I learned so much from other people. Sometimes people perceive
Ritacco, who is FBLA advisor at
And it should come as no surprise that, for Amalfitano, a career in numbers in planned. He said, “I think I am definitely going to want to major in accounting in college. I enjoy the numbers behind it, and I find a
She also earned individual championship title on floor exercise and balance beam. She is a co-champion on the uneven bars alongside Skye Blakely, a University of Florida gymnast. Along with winning the championship title, Rivera also earned herself a spot on the U.S. Women’s Senior National Team, where she will be given opportunities to compete to represent the United States on the international competition circuit.
Her next stop will be a training and evaluation camp for a spot on the U.S. Gymnastics World Championship team. The World Championship competition will take place in Indonesia in October.
networking to be about connecting with people who are above you in hierarchy, but I find that peers and lateral connections and my most valuable connections,” Draper said.
For more information on Draper, visit www.emilydraper.net
Daniel Amalfitano wins first place in the Accounting 1 category (credit: FBLA)
Hezly Rivera receives her medal atop the podium at U.S. Gymnastics Championships in August. (John Cheng/USA Gymnastics)
Texas Couple Celebrates 56 Years of Marriage by Reflecting on their Special Jersey Days
BY STEVE SEARS STAFF WRITER
AREA - Maybe Denis My-
ers had it all planned when in the mid 1960s he approached Michele Cherello between classes in the conservatory of Madison’s Bayley-Ellard High School and asked to borrow her poetry book for English class.
Denis said, “I thought she was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen, and the only way I could think of to get her attention was to borrow a book. I knew that we would have to meet again after that.”
“We were juniors,” Michele recalled. “I thought this tall, lanky guy was very cute and had a great sense of humor. He also had sophisticated taste in music and literature. We were seated at the same table at the Girls Athletic Association Winter formal, and he was so entertaining that was it for me. I knew he was the one!”
Denis and Michele Meyers recently celebrated 56 years of marriage. She was from Morristown, and he was born in and living in the Midwest prior to moving to Chatham.
Michele said, “Morristown was a great place to grow up in the 60s. After we took the bus from high school in Madison, kids would often go to the Colonial on South Street off the Green in the middle of Morristown and then hung out at Graymat’s, a record store listening to music. Then we would walk around town and window shop at Epstein’s, a beautiful department store that is now long gone. Kids with driver’s licenses would cruise around the square and we would meet up with kids from Morristown High. At night, kids loved to drive to Sip & Sup in Morris Plains where the waitresses wore roller skates and brought food right to your car. A novelty at the time.”
Denis said regarding becoming a Jerseyan, “It was quite a culture shock for me –East Coast kids seemed a lot more sophisticated. By the time I got to high school, I had eliminated my Midwestern accent.”
After they met and started dating, the duo was inseparable. Post graduation from Bayley-Ellard in 1965, Michele went off to The College of St. Mary of the Springs in Ohio, and Denis got a job in the mailroom at Chubb & Son, Inc., in Short Hills while attending Fairleigh Dickinson University at night. He and Michele kept in touch by mail, sometimes writing to each other twice a day. But of course, both were very unhappy with their separation and looked forward to holidays and the summer when they could be together again.
Denis applied and was accepted at DeSales University in Pennsylvania and, ironical-
ly enough, when he headed to Pennsylvania for college in the fall of 1966, Michele and he crossed paths, she transferring home to attend Fairleigh Dickinson.
However, they were now just 90 minutes from each other.
“I was home almost every weekend so we could be together,” Denis remembered. “Michele graduated from FDU in June 1969, and we were married in August.”
Denis vividly recalled having to ask Michele’s Dad, Michael Cherello, for her hand in marriage.
“Now, Mr. Cherello was an imposing guy,” Denis said regarding his future father-inlaw. “He was a middle-school Principal with a Ph.D. He was a veteran of World War II and Korea and had attended Catholic University in Washington where he was captain of their
last All-American football team. I was extremely nervous when we sat down privately in their television den but finally blurted out my wish to marry his daughter. He acted very serious and stern but did not keep that up for long, and graciously welcomed me into his family.”
Pastor Stephen Conti and Fr. Edward Callahan officiated as Denis and Michele were married on August 2, 1969, at As-
sumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Morristown. Michele said, “We had a large wedding party, and all the bridesmaids wore white with light green sashes. One-hundred and sixty family, friends and relatives attended the reception at the Florham Park Country Club (now the Park Savoy). There was a lovely cocktail hour with ice sculptures and hot and cold hors
d’oeuvres, followed by a sitdown dinner in the flower filled main ballroom with an orchestra and dancing. It was a magical evening and an elegant event. Our first dance was to the ‘Love Theme from Romeo and Juliet,’ a popular film at the time.”
Denis said of that August day, “Michele was the eldest PLEASE SEE 56 YEARS OF MARRIAGE, PAGE 5
Denis and Michele Meyers after being wed on August 2, 1969. courtesy of Denis and Michele Meyers.
Garden Club of Florham Park
BY SHELIA DWYER AND JENNY ASRAL GUEST WRITERS
FLORHAM PARK - The Gar-
den Club of Florham Park held its last meeting of the spring, and a picnic dinner at the home of Tricia Lindridge Ingber on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. There was a ceremony to install the new officers for 2025/2026 and a member-prepared buffet
supper was served. The following officers were installed: President – Jenny Asral. Vice president – Diane Tortorello. Secretary – Nancy Shaikh. Treasurer – Beth Margerison. The event also included a ceremony to honor past officers
for their steadfast commitment and leadership, in shepherding the club through some challenging times, including the Covid years. The officers honored were: Tricia Lindridge Ingber - President/Vice President, Chris Murray - President/ Vice President , Jerri Bonosky
Get 1
Ingber(President),
- Secretary, and Tracy Hunt –Treasurer.
The Garden Club would like to thank all those who supported our plant and rummage sale in May. Proceeds are used for the planting and maintenance of the gardens at the Florham Park Community Pool and Carolyn‘s Garden, located in
of the Community Center.
Look for members of the club, watering and weeding throughout the summer!
The Garden Club of Florham Park opens its 2025/2026 season with a ‘Welcome Back’ picnic dinner in September. Regular meetings take place on the first Wednesday of the month, in the Akhoury Room of the Florham Park Library. Our meetings often feature guest speakers, including Master Gardeners, covering a variety of garden-related topics. To join, or for more informations, please email Jenny Asral at gcflorhampark@gmail.com.
56 Years of Marriage...
daughter and the first to be married in the Cherello family, so the wedding could not be anything but large. The wedding party was filled with her sisters, cousins, and brother. I had to stretch to find enough guys to match up with all those bridesmaids!”
After being wed, Denis still had to complete his senior year in school, so he and Michele rented a house near his campus after Michele got a job at Bell Labs in Allentown. Denis graduated in June 1970 and was hired by his alma mater as Alumni Coordinator and Assistant Director of Development, while Michele got a job teaching with the Diocese of Allentown. The couple were Pennsylvania residents from 1972 to 2016. Denis spent five years at DeSales University before working for the Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA) for over 38 years. After their three sons were born, Michele left
her teaching job, opting to stay home while they were young. Eventually she joined the Lehigh County Department of Corrections as Administrative Assistance to the Director.
The couple, now retired, resides in Hutto, Texas. The Meyers have 3 sons – Joshua, Christopher, and Alexander - and 3 grandsons with whom the love to spend time. They also enjoy traveling, and that includes heading back to the Garden
State every year to spend two weeks on Long Beach Island. It has been a wonderful journey.
Michele said, “Denis and I were so fortunate to have found each other at such a young age. And we cherish the memories of our lovely wedding!”
“I found someone I could really relate to,” Denis said. “She became more than my girlfriend. She became my best friend.”
Denis and Michele Meyers, best friends and husband and wife for 56 years. courtesy of Denis and Michele Meyers.
Pictured, L to R, are previous officers Jerri Bonosky(Secretary), Chris Murray(Vice President), Tricia Lindridge
with current president, Jenny Asral. (Not pictured, Tracy Hunt, Treasurer)
Pictured L to R, are the 2025/26 officers: Diane Tortorello (Vice President), Beth Margerison (Treasurer), and Jenny Asral (President). (Not pictured, Nancy Shaikh, Secretary).
front
BY PETER NICOLAS
Welcome Home Vets of New Jersey (WHVNJ) Visited the Florham Park Rotary meeting
is dedicated to helping service men and women from all conflict eras overcome obstacles in their return to civilian life.
Rhonda Washer, Director, Veteran Outreach Services and Val DiGiacinto, President/ Chairman presented. They described the organization as a “homeless veteran fire team” which provides immediate shelter in a hotel to homeless veterans throughout New Jersey, often on the same day. Their Food Gift Card Program, via ShopRite Gift Cards, has contributed more than $50,000 to help provide food security to our NJ Veterans. They strive to provide former service members with legal assistance as well as help with access to medical services, housing and jobs. They
prioritize two areas: NJ Veteran Homelessness and Hunger. DiGiancinto explained, “An important part of our mission is to solicit, engage and network to identify Veterans who are in need, as not all of whom are obvious and not all of whom readily come forward”.
See the website about the services available or how one can volunteer in this important veterans organization at WelcomeHomeVetsOfNJ.org or email to Info@WelcomeHomeVetsofNJ.org to learn more. Volunteers are needed to provide the care New Jersey Veterans deserve. To make a donation please
A Cafe Rooted in Tradition, Crafted for You
AREA - There was a time when food was simple, honest, and nourishing. Every meal carried a sense of care, leaving people satisfied without the heaviness. In many parts of Europe, that tradition is still alive. Meals satisfy without the hassle, taste fresh without being overly processed, and leave people craving more. Yet here in the United States, many struggle to find that same wholesome experience in their everyday dining options. The result is a rising number of health concerns, from gluten and dairy intolerances to food allergies and lifestyle-related conditions. More and more Americans are realizing that we truly are what we eat, and that our food choices directly affect how we feel.
Defying Gravitea has stepped in to answer that craving. Built on the belief that food should love you back, this café has designed its menu with a health-conscious mindset rooted in quality and comfort. Every dish is crafted with
the same care and balance that echoes Europe’s culinary traditions, while maintaining the warmth of a homemade meal. What makes Defying Gravitea stand out is not just its commitment to clean ingredients, but its mission to be the link between good food, a healthy body, and a true sense of comfort. Children delight in the flavors. The everyday crowd embraces it. And those seeking dietary-friendly options discover food that feels effortless, yet deeply nourishing. Here, nourishment and enjoyment come together, reminding us that food should
make you feel good, just the way it used to be. Defying Gravitea proves that the food you love can, indeed, love you back.
er@florhamparkrotary.org or toPeter Nicolas, Sergeant-atArms at pnicolas@florhamparkrotary.org
Visit www.defyinggravitea. com or stop by at 211 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Pequannock, NJ 07440 to experience the difference.
East Hanover Man Coaching the Next Generation of Jiujitsu Fighters
BY MEGAN
EAST HANOVER - Frankie Roberts, a North Jersey native, spends most of his time at Silver Fox Brazilian Jiujitsu in East Hanover. Roberts had an interest in fighting mixed martial arts and he was hooked from the start. However, he learned quickly that he had to train all styles of mixed martial arts, including jiujitsu, to become one of the best.
“It became one of those things where if jiujitsu wasn’t your main focus, you had to train or you would just be a leg down,” he explained.
A year into his training, he competed in his first fight. Since those beginner days, he ended up as an advanced black belt in jiujitsu and could still compete today if he really wanted to.
“I’ve been a black belt for
eight years. It takes around ten years to get a jiujitsu black belt. The time commitment is a little bit more than what most people are used to. In more traditional martial arts, some of these folks get black belts in three to four years. It took me six and a half years to get a black belt in jiujitsu and that is considered really fast for the sport,” Roberts said.
Five years ago, he opened the Silver Fox Brazilian Jiujitsu location in East Hanover, where he trains fighters at his location, but also travels internationally to teach the sport abroad.
“I’ve coached all around the world and I just recently started doing seminars. In December of 2024, I did a camp weekend in Holland for over 100 attendees. I taught three or four ses-
sions over three days. It was the first time I had ever done something to that scale outside of the country,” Roberts said. He recently returned from a visit to Japan where he taught as well. A new venture for Roberts, he says that the international teaching has opened his eyes and that he’s met tons of MMA fighters from around the world.
“Some people I’ve known from the community over previous jiujitsu events, and some people I’ve never met. They just come to take the weekend classes. It’s really good. It’s truthfully one of the most fun parts about this. I have probably 10-15 different countries I could visit and have a place to stay off just a phone call,” Roberts said.
Roberts also serves as a
coach for Erin Blanchfield and Fatima Kline, two of the most highly ranked young women in female MMA fighting.
“It’s really more of a family relationship with the two of them. We’re kind of one big happy gang most of the time,” he shared.
He hopes to have the two take part in a fight at Madison Square Garden later this year.
Overall, Roberts couldn’t see himself doing anything else.
“I used to think that if I wasn’t a fighter, I wouldn’t have much of a career in this industry. I’m still helping people all the time, whether they want to compete at the level that Erin and Fatima do or they just need to lose some weight and get in shape. I feel pretty fulfilled. I don’t think I’m
Florham Park Rotary Supports Interfaith Food Pantry Network
BY PETER NICOLAS GUEST WRITER
FLORHAM PARK - There
are more than 10,000 Morris County people who are food insecure. Indeed it is estimated that in all of New Jersey, about 1 in 9 people don’t have access to enough food to maintain a healthy, active life. This affects working families struggling with the high cost of living, to seniors with fixed incomes, to people living with disabilities or in crisis.
The Interfaith Food Pantry Network (IFPN) sought help from local organizations for assistance in a food drive at several Stop & Shop supermarkets on Saturday, September 13. The Florham Park Rotary has supported the Interfaith Food Pantry in Morris Plains for many years and was quick
to dedicate volunteers for that day at the Stop & Shop Berkeley Heights location. Setting up a table were Rotarians Dave Kramer, Peter Nicolas, and Kristen Jankowski for the morning shift. Dave stayed for afternoon shift wherein he was joined by Rotarians Doug Buttner, George Gregor and Simone Campbell.
As shoppers entered the Stop & Shop the Rotarians greeted them with a “Feeding Our Families” Shopping List prepared by the Interfaith Food Pantry. The Non-perishable wish-list included canned proteins, soup and vegetables, dried beans, fruit and herbs, ground coffee, and peanut butter. Grains such as Oats and oatmeal, rice, and quinoa were
requested along with oils such as olive, vegetable or canola.
Florham Park Rotarians tallied the ounces to discover 626 pounds of food were donated on the day.
Additionally, shoppers donated baby products such as diapers and formula or hygiene products such as soap, shampoo, deodorant and menstrual products, or household products such as aluminum foil, garbage bags, napkins and paper towels.
Among the very many shoppers who happily contributed items purchased in the store, parents often guided their children to place purchased items into the Interfaith Food Pantry shopping cart for donation. Commented Florham Park Ro-
tary president Dave Kramer,
“We had great results. People were so generous!” Afterwards, the Florham Park Rotary received this note of thanks from the Interfaith Food Pantry Network Volunteer Manager, Zoe Garcia.
“On behalf of the Interfaith
Food Pantry Network, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for all your help during our Feeding Our Families food drive on September 13. Your dedication and the support from the Florham Park Rotary made a meaningful impact, and we are truly grateful for your time and effort. Your group was able to collect 626 pounds of food and $59 in monetary donations for our neighbors in need (Wow!)”. The Interfaith Food Pantry Network is the largest and most relied upon resource for emergency and supplemental food in Morris County. Anyone struggling to afford groceries after paying bills, or anyone interested in donating food, funds, or becoming a volunteer can call (973) 538-8049 x210 or visit mcifp.org. The Florham Park Rotary meets every Friday morning at the Florham Park Diner in their efforts to plan the next community support effort. Planned for October so far is an apple-picking donation to the Interfaith Food Pantry Network followed by the 5th Annual Florham Park Rotary Halloween Dog Parade & Costume Contest at Florham Park’s Gazebo and Great Lawn.
Questions about Florham Park Rotary events or to consider joining may be sent to: David Kramer, president at dkramer@florhamparkrotary.org or to Peter Nicolas, Sergeant-atArms at pnicolas@florhamparkrotary.org
Frankie Roberts teaches a jiujitsu class at his gym in East Hanover
Rotarians Dave, George, Doug, and Peter at Stop & ShopFood Drive.
Re-Elect Joanne Greene Tobias Hanover Park Regional High School DistrictBoard of Education
HANOVER PARK - Too of-
ten, candidates plant seeds of discontent, creating problems so they can “fix” what isn’t broken. The truth is, Hanover Park delivers a well-rounded education, and our students benefit from strong academics, competitive athletic opportunities, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. All this on a unique California-style campus that is now undergoing multi-million-dollar renovations to further enhance safety and learning. These upgrades are made possible by the 2022 referendum for the Facility Improvement Plan. We should build on these strengths, address real needs with data, communication, transparency, and with your votes I will do just that.
The District is fortunate to have an outstanding Curriculum Director and teaching staff. During my nine years on the Board, the bar for education has constantly evolved and been raised. Robust and challenging courses are offered with a diverse range of subject matters, including 26 Advanced Placement courses. In fact, 94% of total AP students scored 3 or greater on exams in 2025. Hanover Park has seen a rise in standardized test scores with our District well above the state average.
A productive initiative that has developed during my years on the Board is Dual Enrollment: partnerships with higher education institutions let high school students earn college credit for courses. Currently, Hanover Park Regional has partnerships with: CCM, Rutgers, Fairleigh-Dickinson, Seton Hall Universities, and most recently – William Paterson University. Additional options for seniors are the AP Capstone Program and Senior Service Projects. These program opportunities offer valuable experience in real-world settings.
Hanover Park provides a comprehensive educational program with a wide variety of learning opportunities for all students. Among these are Career Pathways. Students can design an educational program aligned with post-secondary college or career interests. Course fields include: Business, Law & Government, Fine, Practical & Performing Arts, Human Services (i.e., Education, Law, Public Safety & Security) and STEM (i.e., Biomedical, Technology, Computer Science, Engineering).
In my years on the Board, Hanover Park High School has been recognized for many National and State achievements.
These include: Rated by US News & World
Report as a “Best High School in 2025”
Rated as a “Best High School in NJ” by Niche.com
Recognized Nationally and Statewide in the Washington Post “America’s Most Challenging High Schools”
Named an “AP Honor Roll School” by the College Board
Rated in the “Top School District in Morris County”, by Niche.com
Recognized as a State and National District of Character
National Merit Scholars placed in the top 5% of all college bound seniors in the country
Co-Curricular Activities
Consistently rated “High Performing” in state QSAC performance reviews Athletic Accomplishments –too many to list
Unlike our neighboring communities, Hanover Park does not have a “pay to play” policy for our competitive sports programs. To supplement our budget, the District has applied for and received $1.5 million dollars in grants since 2023.
And, I can’t say enough about our dedicated superintendent, district staff, administrators, board, and teachers. They keep the engine running.
For nine years I’ve represented Florham Park on the Hanover Park Regional Board, and for more than a decade I’ve served our community on two school boards. I’m a retired New Jersey public school teacher with 30 years in the classroom. Although retired, I remain active in education and student advocacy. I hold four teaching certifications and a master’s degree in special education. Before moving to Florham Park 30 years ago, I was elected for six consecutive years as a Committeewoman, serving the residents of my District in Jersey City. That experience grounded me in open government, budgeting, and responsive constituent service. I have served as a Director on the Morris County School Board Executive Committee and represented our District in Washington D.C. In addition to my career as an educator, I am a veteran who served fourteen years in the U.S. Air Force/Air Force Reserves, and a member of VFW Post 5351.
I’m running for re-election to keep the focus on where it belongs: on all students. I’m proud of a district that is wellrun and student-centered, and I’m committed to preserving that integrity. I will continue to support strong academics, competitive athletics, and extracurriculars. More than ever, I am committed to ensuring that
personal agendas and factional interests do not interfere with the operations of a commendable and well-run District. Voters deserve a representative who understands governance, knows our schools, and leads with transparency, balance, and respect for the law.
I believe it is my responsibility to engage in continued collaboration and personal growth in order to advance educational goals. If Board members do not engage in training and workshop opportunities to understand their role, enhance their growth or grasp issues affecting public school education, then how can they lead and be effective Board members? I have completed hundreds of hours in Board training and workshops, having achieved Certified Board Leader. A candidate who states, “I will do whatever it takes…..,” shows inexperience and a lack of understanding in the role and parameters of a public-school board member.
Nine Board members serve on the regional high school district board, elected and representing three communities. Their opinions count.
The League of Women Voters contacted my opponent and I to participate in a candidates forum. My opponent asked for your support and votes yet denied the residents of Florham Park the opportunity to ask relevant questions at this sponsored Candidates Forum. This forum would help voters make an informed decision on who to vote for and best represent them on the District Board of Education. I said Yes, my opponent declined to participate.
With my recommendation, the Hanover Park Board of Education is holding open, public Work-Sessions before regular Board of Education meetings. This practice enhances collaboration, communication, and transparency between the Board of Education, parents, staff, students, and the public. In addition to promoting transparency, these sessions build community trust and can lead to better informed decisions.
Districts that open their public meetings and then motion to enter Executive Session must specify the subject to be discussed under a specific legal exemption. Other discussions could be a violation of the Open Public Meetings Act. The Hanover Park Regional District does not engage in this practice.
I have a strong connection and allegiance to Hanover Park. My three children graduated HP safe, supported, well-prepared, and I want the same for
The best value in transportation since
every family. With decades of experience as an educator, veteran, and board leader, I know how to govern effectively and keep our district focused on students.
I’ve spent my life serving my community, state, and country. I will use that lifetime of service in the classroom, the military, and on our school boards, to help every student discover their path. I bring the work ethic of a teacher and veteran: show up, do the homework, listen with respect, and put the mission first. I’m grateful for the trust Florham Park has placed in me for many years.
My goal is simple and consistent, with your support and votes, I’ll remain committed to balanced, student-first leadership that provides them with the tools to reach their full potential and keeps Hanover Park moving forward. My leadership skills, experience, and expertise as an educator and member of the U.S. military have prepared me to serve effectively on the Board of Education.
VOTE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4th
See: jgtobias4hpreg.org
Paid for by Joanne Tobias for BOE
BY DANA JACKSON
Q: Is the series “China Beach” available to stream anywhere? Also, is Dana Delany in anything else right now? I loved that show. -- I.N.
A: Two years ago, TVLine published their list of the 10 most-requested shows not yet available on a major streaming service. One of those was “China Beach,” the Vietnam-Warera drama starring Dana Delany and Marg Helgenberger that aired on ABC from 1988-1991. Since this wish list was posted, six of the shows have been picked up by streamers: “Homicide: Life on the Street,” “Knots Landing,” “Moonlighting,” “Sisters,” “Northern Exposure,” and now ... “China Beach!” Roku’s new ad-free streaming service called Howdy (subscriptions are just $2.99 a month) is the exclusive streamer of “China Beach.” As for Delany, she was a regular on the hit series “Des-
BY DEMI TAVERAS
“Elio” (PG) -- Pixar’s latest film released earlier this summer in theaters, and although it didn’t turn much of a profit, “Elio” received positive reviews and gives us a break from Pixar’s parent company’s constant remakes. Fifteen-year-old newcomer Yonas Kibreab plays the titular character, while notable names in the cast include Zoe Saldana (“Emilia Perez”) and Jameela Jamil (“Star Trek: Prodigy”). The sci-fi adventure film follows orphan Elio, who doesn’t seem to fit in with the world around him. He longs to be abducted by aliens after wandering into an exhibit on a Voyager 1 spacecraft, and after a brush with bullies, he finally gets his wish. Elio is welcomed
perate Housewives” from 20072012 before starring in another successful drama called “Body of Proof.” She’s also returning for her third season on the hit show “Tulsa King,” which returns to Paramount+ with new episodes beginning on Sept. 21. As for the final four shows that made TVLine’s list two years ago? Fans of “Ed,” “Murphy Brown,” “Chicago Hope,” and “Boston Public” are still hoping that the shows will find their streaming homes, but it’s very likely that the usual obstacles, such as music clearances, are responsible for the delay.
***
Q:I just read that there’s going to be another “Yellowstone” spin-off. Is this in addition to the one with Beth and Rip? I hope that one is still a go. -- S.P.
A:There are at least two new and upcoming “Yellowstone” spin-offs since the flagship se-
into the Communiverse, where aliens from different worlds can speak to each other, and his entire world opens up in a way that he never thought possible. Out now to rent. (Amazon Prime Video)
“Love Island USA: Season 7 Reunion” (TV-MA) -- After a record-breaking season that catapulted the series to the No. 1 original streaming title during its finale (according to Nielsen), the recent “Love Island USA” cast joins hosts Andy Cohen and Ariana Madix to break down everything that went down this season. Of course, there are a few exceptions to who will be joining, like Cierra Ortega, who was kicked off the show after a video resurfaced of
ries from creator Taylor Sheridan ended last December. First up is “Y: Marshals,” where Luke Grimes will reprise his role of Kayce Dutton in his next incarnation as a U.S. marshal. As for a premiere date, Entertainment Weekly reported that the show will begin airing midway through the 2025-26 broadcast season on CBS.
As for Beth and Rip, their love story will continue sometime in 2026 with stars Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser on their new ranch in Montana. A series title hasn’t been announced, but the the show will air exclusively on Paramount+.
***
Q: Are any of the original cast from “Buffy” going to be in the reboot series? I’ve only heard that Sarah Michelle Gellar is involved in some capacity. -- K.S.
A:While Sarah Michelle Gel-
her saying a racial slur. But this doesn’t mean there won’t be a large supply of drama coming our way in this reunion. Expect the self-pitiful Huda Mustafa, who’s gathered a large social media following since her whiny antics in the villa, and the cutthroat runner-up Olandria Carthen to give us some of the juicy moments we’ve been missing! Premieres at 9 p.m. ET on Aug. 25. (Peacock)
“Wednesday: Season 2” (TV-14) -- “Here We Woe
Again,” reads the first episode title of the follow-up season to the hit Netflix series “Wednesday,” and it couldn’t be a better teaser of what’s to come. Split into two parts, with the second part premiering on Sept.
lar is expected to appear in the planned sequel series of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” as a mentor to a new young slayer, no other actors from the original series have been announced. I would imagine that several will be asked to reprise their roles in a guest-starring capacity, but the Hulu series is still in its early stages of development.
Ryan Kiera Armstrong has been cast as Nova, the new slayer of Sunnydale. Her credits include “Stick,” “American Horror Story,” and “It Chapter Two.” The series will be produced by Gellar, along with Nora and Lilla Zuckerman (both producers of “Poker Face”) as the showrunners. The pilot episode will be directed by Oscar-winning director Chloe Zhao (“Nomadland”).
Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail. com.
3, the second season picks up as Wednesday returns to Nevermore Academy as a celebrity after having saved the school. A new mystery awaits the reluctant Wednesday after private investigator Carl Bradbury is murdered by “crows.” Stepping
into bigger roles this season are Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia, who gets offered to run a fundraising committee for the school, and Wednesday’s brother, Pugsley (Isaac Ordonez), who enrolls as a student at Nevermore. Special recurring
guests
this season include Steve Buscemi, Lady Gaga, Anthony Michael Hall, and Christopher Lloyd. Stream the first four episodes now! (Netflix) (c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
Dana Delany as Margaret Deveraux in “Tulsa King” Photo Credit: Courtesy of Paramount+. (c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
Jenna Ortega, left and Thandiwe Newton star in “Wednesday: Season 2.” Photo Credit: Courtesy of Netflix.
Why is Washington D.C. the Capital and Not Trenton?
BY HENRY M. HOLDEN STAFF WRITER
AREA - Did you know that Trenton was at one point the capitol of the United States?
Philadelphia was also under consideration along with New York City. How did the country end up with Washington DC?
After the Revolutionary War, Trenton was the capital of the United States from November and December of 1784. Many of the residents thought the city should be considered as a permanent capital.
The Founding Fathers were debating fundamental rights and the relationship between protections of liberty and the separation of powers. On the agenda was whether the capital of the new United States should remain in New Jersey. Many delegates favored New Jersey with access to the Delaware River just outside Trenton.
The Continental Congress met in Trenton in November and December of 1783. Trenton was a permanent capital, by some of its residence but the southern states favored a location further south.
But for providence, the Garden State would today be the home of the capital. It would have the Trenton Monument, the Vietnam Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and everything we associate with Washington D.C. How did the Nation’s capital end up in Washington D.C.?
There is a saying in real state, that “Its location, location, location.” But it is not al-
ways the best location. Trenton was not an easy city to reach for anyone. Today, a typical trip from Trenton to Washington takes about two hours on the Acella high- speed train. The trip is about three and one-half hours by car on a light traffic day. Imagine the trip in the transportation of the day, horseback or horse and buggy. Things moved very slowly in those days.
Several factors played a role in Philadelphia’s consideration. Philadelphia was geographically centrally located among the original thirteen states. Congress was in Philadelphia. The Declaration of Independence had been signed there, and the Articles of Confederation were drafted there.
Philadelphia was also the center of the “nationalist” faction: Merchants and investors wanted a strong national government that could insure a stable economy. Having just fought a war against a central government most delegates wanted the power to reside instead with the individual states. Philadelphia had roughly 30,000 residents. But in the eighteenth century, Philadelphia would look like a giant megalopolis, and likely the largest city in the English-speaking world.
Trenton was preferred by New England and other northern states as a permanent capital for the U.S., but the southern states prevailed in their
choice of a location south of the Mason–Dixon line.
At the time, Newark was not seriously looked on as a candidate since it was referred to as a township, not a city. It wasn’t incorporated as a city until 1836.
In October 1783, many delegates voted to build the national’s capital on the New Jersey site. But the southern delegates refused to concede the issue and threatened to block the two-thirds vote necessary to appropriate the funds to build the new capital combined with the nationalists who wanted to move back to Philadelphia and build two capitals.
To break the stalemate Congress voted a few weeks later to repeal the earlier decision and build two capitals, one on the Potomac River and one on the Delaware River. The government would spend half a year in each.
Proposals came in from states and towns across the country to be host. The town of Kingston, New York, was the first with an offer of a square mile of land. The state of Maryland offered 300 acres in Annapolis, including existing government buildings and the promise of building thirteen official residences for the delegates from the states.
It was further decided that until construction was completed Congress would alternate between Annapolis, Maryland and Trenton, New Jersey.
A Warriors Story: The Life and Legacy of Jamie Smith
BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER
AREA - In A Warrior’s Story, you’ll meet and learn about all the sides of Jamie Smith. Smith was a West Morris Central (WMC) High School graduate who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving as a US Army Ranger during the Battle of Mogadishu in 1993. You’ll hear from Jamie’s former teachers, his Army Ranger battle buddies, and how his legacy still lives on to this day in the halls of WMC. This series will be an on-going feature in the months ahead.
While Jamie has been gone for over two decades, his Long Valley legacy has remained. It was only in 2019 that the state of New Jersey put together legislation to remember him. In 2019, Gov. Phil Murphy signed a law that designates every October 3 as Corporal Jamie Smith Day.
“Sergeant Pilla and Corporal Smith served our country courageously and selflessly, protecting the people of our nation,” said Governor Murphy in a 2019 interview. “It is my honor to sign this legislation and recognize the incredible service and sacrifice of these two heroic individuals.”
Locally in Long Valley, the road leading to the Long Valley Raiders football field at Rock Spring Park is named Cpl. Jamie Smith Drive. Smith’s name also lives on at Picatinny Arsenal, where there is a building named in his honor.
For Smith’s former teacher Dennis O’Connell, he hopes Jamie’s legacy lives on forever.
“I remember Jamie as a caring selfless young man who loved his Country, loved being of service to others, a team player with a fantastic sense of humor. I hope that people can learn from Jamie’s legacy that he represented the very best character traits in what it means to be an American…. to care for others, to ‘step up’ when others can’t. He was in Somalia originally on a humanitarian mission to stop the warlords from stealing food and starving their own population. Jamie demonstrated the best values of what it meant to
be an American regardless of your faith, your race or your politics….Jamie’s legacy to me…be kind, be caring, step up to help those who can’t help themselves…that was the America that he believed in and died for,” O’Connell said.
Jamie’s story of bravery is told in the 2025 Netflix docuseries, Surviving Black Hawk Down. In the show, you’ll meet some of Jamie’s Army Ranger pals, hear from the doctor who tried to save his life, and more.
For more information on the series, visit Netflix.com.
Two sites had emerged as the favorite. One on the Delaware River near Trenton, and the other on the Potomac River near Georgetown on the Virginia Maryland border
The New Jersey legislature promised to provide #30,000( pounds) to any community in the state that petitioned to become the permanent seat of Congress, and several towns, including, Newark, New Brunswick, and Elizabeth applied.
Congress decided that the best alternative would be to build an entirely new city on vacant land where the government could establish its own laws and authority.
As agreed, to Congress left Princeton for Annapolis in November 1783 and onto Trenton in November of the following year.
At the meeting in Trenton, the delegates began to reconsider the wisdom of their decision. There had been a great deal of criticism of the proposal. “To talk of building cities when they can scarcely furnish money for the paper on which to draw the plans,” wrote one observer “appears to mean something different from wisdom, prudence or policy.”
Other criticisms sarcastically suggested that Congress put sails on government buildings so they could float from city to city. Another said Congress should put Congress on a floating wooden statue of George Washington. Others said build a giant pendulum in the sky that would swing from the Potomac River to the Delaware River.
More serious were reports that European powers were beginning to doubt the stability of the American government. A committee was appointed to pick a site “not more than eight miles above or below the falls of the Delaware.”
Until the capital was completed it was agreed to move the Congress and the government to New York City. Although Trenton had been hos-
pitable, the small country town was too crowded to suit the delegates.
Before progress could be made on building a new capital other matters got in the way. The growing dissatisfaction with the Articles of Confederation. The nationals were pressing their campaign for a strong government that lead to the celebrated gathering in Philadelphia that produced the Constitution.
Meanwhile, in Congress, the southern delegates were still anxious for a capital on the Potomac and blocked appropriations for construction of one on the Delaware.
Those who favored limited government thought that the dual capital scheme would prevent the growth of a bloated bureaucracy. They needed to reconsider the two-part government. That is when Does it was just that delegates changed their minds again they voted to establish a single capital located on the Delaware
and authorize $100,000 for construction. The new capital would make a stronger central government. Meanwhile, the southern delegates were still anxious for capital on the Potomac, and blocked administrative appropriations for construction of the Delaware website.
With the strong influence of Alexander Hamilton who was Washington’s Sectary of the Treasury and George Washington the Potomac became the capital of Washington D.C., and the federal government. New Jersey by vote approved overwhelming their new Constitution.
The most influential opponent was America’s hero General George Washington, who said, “Fixing the seat of the empire at any spot on the Delaware is in my humble opinion is demonstrably wrong.” Coincidentally, the general’s home, Mount Vernon, was just a few miles south on the Potomac site.
The street sign that memorializes Jamie at Rock Spring Park.
Christopher Columbus Did Not Discover New Jersey
AREA - Christopher Columbus discovered America, but he did not discover New Jersey. That kudo belongs to Giovanni da Verrazzano, who in 1524, was the first European to see the land that one day would become New Jersey
There were probably a few million native human beings living here when Columbus and Verrazzano showed up, so for accuracy we’ll call them explorers who were the first to bring back descriptions of worlds they had found to the Europeans.
Verrazzano was one of the great men of the ages. He was an explorer who, like Copernicus, redefined the shape of the solar system, and Michaelangelo who redefined the image of man. What Verrazzano did was redefine the map of the world. So, what little we know of Verrazzano comes from fragments gathered long after his death. Some historians disagree on where he was born albeit we know when and the cause of his death.
He embarked for the American coast probably in 1508 in the company of Captain Thomas Aubert, on the ship La Pensée. He explored the region of Newfoundland, possibly during a fishing trip, and possibly the St. Lawrence River in Canada; on other occasions, he made numerous voyages to the eastern Mediterranean.
In September 1522, the Magellan expedition returned to Spain, having successfully navigating the world. Now Verrazzano embarked for the American coast. Competition in trade was becoming urgent, especially with Portugal.
French merchants and financiers urged King Francis I of France to establish new trade routes. In 1523, the king asked Verrazzano to explore on France›s behalf an area between Florida and Newfoundland, intending to find a sea route to the Pacific Ocean.
The expedition was funded by a consortium of Florentine merchants and friends based in Lyon and Rouen. Enough money was raised, with Verrazzano himself contributing as both captain and investor.
Within months, four ships set sail due west for the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, but a violent storm and rough seas caused the loss of two ships.
The remaining two damaged ships, La Dauphine and La Normande, were forced to return to Brittany.
Repairs were completed in the final weeks of 1523, and the ships set sail again. This time, the ships headed south toward
Verrazzano was born about 1485 to wealthy and cultured parents south of Florence, the capital and main city of the Republic of Florence. Verrazzano was an explorer living in France. He led most of his later expeditions, including the one to America, in the service of King Francis I of France. He is renowned as the first European to explore the Atlantic coast of North America between Florida and New Brunswick in 1524, In contrast to his detailed account of his voyages to North America, little is definitively known about his personal life. After 1506, he settled in the port of Dieppe, Kingdom of France, where he began his career as a navigator.
calmer waters under Spanish and Portuguese control.
After a stop in Madeira, complications forced La Normande back to home port, but Verrazzano’s ship La Dauphin departed on January 17, 1524, and headed once more for the North American continent.
It a letter to Francis I, Verrazzano described by historians as the Cèllere Codex, one of three surviving copies of a manuscript letter sent by Verrazzano to King Francis 1 of France. Verrazzano wrote that he was convinced that it was the beginning of the Pacific Ocean from which access could be gained to China.
Continuing to explore the coast further northwards, Verrazzano and his crew met Native people living on the coast. However, he did not notice the entrances to the Chesapeake Bay or the mouth of the Delaware River.
In New York Bay, he encountered about 30Lenape canoes with friendly inhabitants and observed what he deemed to be a large lake but was really the entrance to the Hudson River. He then sailed along Long Island and entered Narragansett Bay, where he received a delegation of Wampanoag and Narragansett people.
He discovered Cape Cod is one of three surviving copies of a manuscript letter sent by Giovanni da Verrazzano (1481–1528) in 1524 to King Francis I his claim being proven by a map of 1529 that clearly outlined Cape Cod. He named the cape after a general, calling it Pallavicino. He then followed the coast up to modern Maine, southeastern Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland, and he then
returned to France by July 8, 1524. Verrazzano named the region Francesca in honor of the French king, but his brother’s map labelled it Nova Gallia (New France).
Verrazzano arranged a second voyage, with financial support from those who knew him well. The exposition departed from Dieppe with four ships early in 1527. One ship was separated from the others in a gale near the Cape Verde Islands. Still, Verrazzano reached the coast of Brazil with two ships and harvested a cargo of brazilwood before returning to Dieppe in September. The third ship returned later, also with a cargo of brazilwood.
The partial success did not find the desired passage to the Pacific Ocean, but it inspired Verrazzano’s final voyage, which left Dieppe in early 1528.
There are conflicting accounts of Verrazzano’s death. In one version, during his third voyage to North America in 1528, after he had explored Florida, the Bahamas, and the Lesser Antilles, Verrazzano anchored out to sea and rowed ashore, probably on the island of Guadeloupe. He was allegedly killed and eaten by the native Caribs. The fleet of three ships was anchored out of gunshot range, and no one could respond in time.
A 1527 map by Visconte Maggiolo showing the east coast of North America with “Tera Florida” at top right and Labrador at bottom left. The information supposedly came from Giovanni da Verrazzano’s voyage in 1524.
The geographic information derived from this voyage signifi-
cantly influenced sixteenth-century cartographers. Despite his discoveries, Verrazzano’s reputation did not spread as well as other explorers of that era. For example, Verrazzano gave the European name Francesca to the new land that he had seen, in accordance with contemporary practices, after the French king in whose name he sailed. That and other names he bestowed on features he discovered have not survived. He had the misfortune of making significant discoveries shortly after the years (1519 to 1521) that the dramatic Conquest of the Aztec Empire and the first circumnavigation of the world occurred.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a great debate in the United States about the authenticity of the letters that Verrazzano ostensibly wrote to Francis I describing the geography, flora, fauna, and native population of the east coast of North America. Others thought that they were authentic, since the discovery of the Cèllere Codex in 1909. This is the most widely held opinion today particularly after the discovery of a letter signed by Francis I, which referred to Verrazzano›s letter.
Verrazzano’s reputation was partially obscured in New York City, where the 1609 voyage of
Henry Hudson on behalf of the Dutch Republic came to be regarded as the de facto start of European exploration of New York
Estêvão Gomes’s trip of 1524 was also forgotten. It was only by a real effort of the Italian American community in 1909, and then in the 1940s and 1950s that Verrazzano’s name and reputation were reestablished as the European discoverer of the harbor, culminating in initiative to name the newly built Narrows bridge after him.
Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is a long-span suspension bridge spanning New York Harbor from Brooklyn to Staten Island, built from 1959 to 1964. The
