Hackettstown Life December 23

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No. 19 Vol. 12

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Hackettstown First Responders Give Back in a Big Way at Holiday Time

By Steve Sears n addition to keeping their watchful eyes on and caring for the community, first responders in Hackettstown also give more back in the way of good cheer during the holidays.

“It gives us a great feeling inside,” Lieutenant Darren Tynan of the Hackettstown Police Department said. “Our job is always to give back to our community.”

In addition to the Downtown Halloween Event and parade that the department has been taking part in the past 10 years, since 2017 the force has been participating in the No-Shave November initiative. Both they and Mansfield Police Department have raised over $15,000 for the Joan Knechel Cancer Center at Hackettstown Medical Center. For Thanksgiving, both police departments aid senior citizens by teaming with Marley’s Gotham Grill and delivering meals to seniors who have no one to visit them. Also, for the past couple of years, the police department has gone out with the Marley’s Gotham Grill food truck to Hackettstown Medical Center, helped make meals, and delivered them to the healthcare workers, and did likewise at both Riverwalk

Village at The House of the Good Shepherd and the Hackettstown Senior Apartments.

“For Christmas,” Tynan said, “we do Shop with a Cop, where we get a list of kids who might need some extra help during the Christmas season. We go to the Walmart Supercenter in Mansfield where the officers are teamed up with a kid and their family, and they can spend the money that we donate to them from the HackettstownMansfield PBA Local 369. It is just a great interaction to have, with the officer teaming up with a family and getting to know the kids.”

Anthony Levesque, Chief of the Hackettstown Fire Department since 2022, said his crew partners up with different organizations from the town, one of them being the Elks Lodge #2331.

“We bring Santa Claus around the whole town,” Levesque said. “On a weekend in December, we parade around town, and he waves and gives out candy to the kids.”

The Hackettstown Fire Department also is present at the Downtown Halloween Event and parade, and then on Halloween itself, firefighters give out candy at the firehouse for two hours, then trek by fire truck

Members of the Hackettstown First Aid & Rescue Squad (Credit: Samantha Scupoline)

through Hackettstown neighborhoods, distributing candy to happy children.

Hackettstown First Aid and Rescue Squad Chief, Samantha Scupoline, said her crew has given back to the community during the holidays for many years, not only by answering 911 calls, but through

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community events such as Candy Cane Lane and the Santa Parade, as well as their Santa Gift Run. Scupoline said, “This year our department is offering the community a chance to meet Santa and the Grinch continued on page 4

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What Working from Home Means for Musculoskeletal Pain

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By Michael Lalama, DC mong the many changes to our lives that came with the COVID-19 pandemic, modifications of working habits and ergonomics proved to be a significant challenge in preventing and/or minimizing musculoskeletal pain.1 As the world adopted different containment measures, the number of people working from home increased tremendously.2 While working from home brought multiple advantages to employees, such as less commuting and having more flexibility, it has also brought in several constraints that have impacted the lives of workers.2 First, working from home typically involves extended sedentary computer work with minimal active interruptions.2 For example, while working in an office you are more likely to get up from your desk and walk to the copier, breakroom, or to meetings, whereas at home these activities are done virtually or are lost all together.2 Ultimately, remote work from home has promoted a more sedentary lifestyle and, when combined with individual set-up constraints, a decrease in ergonomics.2 In the Netherlands, it was found that only one-third of home workers in 2020 and one-half of home workers in 2021 had an optimally furnished workplace (e.g., adjustable desks, adjustable chairs, a separate computer monitor, a separate mouse, etc.) to promote good posture.2 In a separate study of at home set-ups, they found that 40.9% of workers did not use an office desk; among them, 65.3% used a kitchen or a dining room table, 20% used a living room table, and the remaining 14.7%

used a makeshift table (e.g., a chest of drawers) instead.1 The utilization of incorrect or suboptimal equipment/ furniture directly correlates with reduced ergonomics.

But even when ergonomic and adaptable furniture is available, workers do not always install and/or use the furniture appropriately.2 In addition, over half of at home workers have reported working longer hours than when they were in the office.1 Not only are at home workers at an increased risk for musculoskeletal pain based on workspaces that are not ergonomically installed, they are now also sitting for more hours than at the office.2 This ultimately increases the likelihood of pain in any region of the spine; in fact, working from home was associated with a higher risk of low back pain, upper back pain, neck pain, shoulder and/ or arm pain compared to working on location.2 And since remote work has turned previously active interruptions virtual, it’s not a surprise that most workers do not exercise (e.g., walking, stretching, etc.) during breaks.1 It was also found that at home workers who did not exercise regularly outside of working hours had a significantly higher incidence of lower back pain and upper back/neck pain compared to those who did.1 It was common for workers to find it hard to get themselves to start exercising, which was mostly due to a perceived lack of time; however, this is directly correlated with an increase in pain and a decrease in quality of life.1 But even with the deterioration in musculoskeletal pain associated with working from home, most workers would still rather work from home than go to the office.1 So what can be

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Most recommendations involve taking frequent breaks from working with a computer, as well as practicing exercises to ease the load on the spine, neck, upper extremities, and the eyes.1 This, however, does not address the lack of time or space many at home workers complain of. Taking frequent breaks (e.g., 5-15 min every hour) while working can free up small intervals of time throughout the day that workers can be active.

It is common to think that you need a large period of continuous time in order to exercise, but in reality, even 5 minutes an hour over the course of an 8-hour workday adds up to 40 minutes. While it is not likely to perform strenuous exercises in 5 minutes, stretches and postural exercises can help reduce the load on the spine and reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal pain.

It is always important to consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting an exercise program, and to explore which treatment options are right for you.

Radulović, A. H., Žaja, R., Milošević, M., Radulović, B., Luketić, I., & Božić, T. (2021). Work from home and musculoskeletal pain in telecommunications workers during COVID-19 pandemic: a pilot study. Arhiv za higijenu rada i toksikologiju, 72(3), 232–239. https://doi. org/10.2478/aiht-2021-72-3559 Bosma, E., Loef, B., van Oostrom, S.H. et al. (2022) The longitudinal association between working from home and musculoskeletal pain during the COVID-19 pandemic. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 96, 521–535. https://doi. org/10.1007/s00420-022-01946-5

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Alleviating Winter Woes: How Acupuncture Can Help Manage Worsening Arthritis Symptoms

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or individuals with arthritis, the winter season can bring about intensified pain and discomfort as the cold weather sets in. Many people report that their arthritis symptoms worsen during colder months, leading to increased joint pain and stiffness. In the quest for relief, some individuals turn to acupuncture, an ancient practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body.

The reasons behind the exacerbation of arthritis symptoms in colder weather are multifaceted. Some theories propose that changes in atmospheric pressure, temperature, and humidity can influence joint fluid viscosity, potentially contributing to increased stiffness and pain. Moreover, reduced physical activity during winter months may lead to muscle weakness and further compromise joint function.

As individuals seek ways to manage these winter woes, acupuncture emerges as a potential ally in the battle against worsening arthritis symptoms.

Acupuncture is believed to enhance

blood circulation and energy flow throughout the body. This is particularly relevant for individuals with arthritis exacerbated by the cold. By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points, practitioners aim to improve circulation, potentially alleviating cold-induced stiffness and promoting a sense of warmth in affected joints. The increased blood flow may also aid in the delivery of nutrients to joint tissues, supporting their health and function.

Acupuncture’s ability to modulate pain signals in the body is well-documented. For individuals with arthritis, especially during the winter, the heightened pain sensitivity can be challenging. Acupuncture may help regulate the perception of pain by promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. This can be particularly beneficial for managing the increased discomfort associated with winter-related arthritis symptoms.

The muscle tension and stiffness often accompanying arthritis can be exacerbated

in colder temperatures. Acupuncture’s muscle-relaxing effects can offer relief by promoting a state of relaxation in the muscles and joints. This can contribute to improved range of motion and reduced stiffness, making daily activities more manageable for individuals with winteraggravated arthritis.

As winter brings its unique challenges for individuals with arthritis, acupuncture

emerges as a potential therapeutic tool to manage worsening symptoms. By promoting circulation, modulating pain signals, and relaxing muscles and joints, acupuncture offers a holistic approach to addressing the specific challenges presented by cold weather. For more information call Mount Olive Acupuncture and Wellness 973-527-7978

First Responders...

continued from front page along with others in our Gift Run. Members of the community have the chance to purchase gift baskets in various sizes to be distributed by Santa himself on December 23rd. By purchasing a gift basket, we will be able to visit others in the community who may not normally get the chance to experience all that everyone else would.

Planning for these events takes a lot of time and planning, but the joy that comes out of those who we get to help really makes all the time and planning worth it.”

Scupoline added, “As a communitybased organization solely focused on helping the community, I personally take pride in knowing that, not only myself, but all the members of this department want to make a difference in some way. Whether we are saving a life, lending a shoulder to cry on, or providing a fun experience for the community, our goal is to give back. Our goal of this organization is to provide for this community in what may be the hardest time in someone’s life.”

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Hall of Famer Harry E. Brown’s Memory Set in Stone

arry E. Brown, who passed away earlier this year, was surely smiling from heaven on Nov. 11th.

Brown was posthumously elected to the Warren County Hall of Fame at a gala dinner that evening at Hawk Pointe Golf Club, just a few hours after the Warren County Community College Board of Trustees Board room was named in his honor.

Brown resided for many years in Hackettstown.

For Harry’s wife Nancy and her family, the two recognitions on the same day capped a memory that will never be forgotten.

College, local, county and state officials, as well as friends, joined the Brown family in gathering at WCCC for the room dedication, now to be called the Harry E. Brown Community Board Room.

The plaque that was

unveiled at the ceremony reads: The Warren County Community College Board Room is dedicated to Harry E. Brown.

Harry E. Brown served Warren County Community College as a Volunteer Trustee with distinction for eight years, and as an invaluable advocate for over twenty years. As an exemplary member of the Board of Trustees Mr. Brown worked diligently as a Trustee leader to ensure that Waren County Community College was a national model of trustee policy oversight.

The Warren County Community College Board of Trustees recognizes Harry.

E. Brown for his dedicated services and contributions to our students, our College and the entire Warren County community.

A few short hours later, Nancy accepted Harry’s Warren County Hall of

Hackettstown’s Zoning Board of Adjustment, the Hackettstown Municipal Utilities Authority, as a Trustee for the town public library and was on the Billy Yank Monument committee.

He served as the first chair of Warren County’s Municipal and Charitable Conservancies Trust Fund Committee during the years the committee preserved many farms and open space, and provided funding to stabilize many of the county’s important historic buildings, including the the Long House in Hope, and Roseberry House in Phillipsburg. He was also a charter member of the Musconetcong Watershed Association. After moving to Belvidere, he served on the town’s library board.

He also was a county election commissioner until his death this past May. Politics was a passion for Brown, who was active in

Fame recognition with great pleasure and took the opportunity to relay many happy memories.

Other Hall of Fame inductees that night also expressed admiration for Harry’s life and career.

“Harry was and will always be an important figure who helped make a difference for the College, the students and staff,” said Trustee Chair Yvonne Reitemeyer.

“He deeply cared about the College, and our Board of Trustees recognized that wholeheartedly.”

Brown grew up in Gloucester City but made Hackettstown his home for 42 years while he and his wife of 53 years, Nancy, raised their daughters and became active in the community. The last several years the Browns lived in Belvidere.

Brown volunteered his time graciously. He served for many years on

the local Republican party.

A graduate of Rutgers University in 1969, he attended both the U. S. Naval Postgraduate School and the U. S. Air Force Graduate School during the 31 years he worked at Picatinny Arsenal where he was a member of the Army Acquisition Corps. After his retirement, Brown became the assistant superintendent of the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission, a post he held for five years.

Always gregarious, Brown could make a new friend in the grocery store line.

He could speak brilliantly on any number of topics, especially history, and his recall of important dates and geopolitical facts was extremely useful in his tenures on the zoning board and MCCTFC. On the latter, he could put historic preservation in context for his fellow committee members.

Harry E. Brown Ensuring that Brown’s memory will last for generations, a scholarship fund at the College has been set-up in Harry’s name through the WCCC Foundation. Donations can be made to the Harry E. Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund, care of the WCCC Foundation, 475 RT 57 W. Washington, NJ. 07882.

For further information about the scholarship, email samir@warren.edu.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • December 2023 • Page 7

Centenary University Selects Hailey Tibus as 2023 Hackettstown Scholar

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entenary University first-year student Hailey Tibus has a small tattoo that says simply, “Love Yours.” It’s a mantra she’s learned to embrace after years of feeling that she never quite measured up against her peers. Tibus’s parents were separated when she was a toddler and her father passed away when she was 12 due to cancer related to the 9/11 attacks. Growing up in a family facing significant financial challenges, Tibus started working early on to help out with household expenses. As a result, there wasn’t much time to get involved in the student organizations that are so important in gaining high school recognition and college scholarships.

Living just two blocks from Centenary, she’d pass campus on her way to Hatchery Hill Elementary School and dream of someday earning a degree from the University. Money may have been tight, but Tibus had lots of love and support from her family—her mother and brother, as well as her grandparents—and knew that somehow, she’d find a way to realize her dream. “My mother never forced college on us, but I think that was because of finances,” Tibus recalled. “She always supported whatever we wanted to do. I was always setting goals for myself, and my mom was always by my side supporting whatever I chose to do.”

When Tibus heard that Centenary offered a full, four-year scholarship annually to one graduate of Hackettstown High School, she hesitated to apply. “I thought there would always be somebody better than me,” recalled Tibus, who graduated from high school last spring. “They’re going to be better in school, better in sports, better in life than me. My grandfather was the one who gave me the confidence to apply for the scholarship. He told me, ‘I’ve loved you for 18 years. These people are going to love you, too.’”

Tibus decided to apply, and last spring learned that Centenary University had named her the recipient of the 2023 Hackettstown Partnership Scholarship. The prestigious award provides full tuition for four years of study at Centenary. Teachers, guidance counselors, the principal, and high school friends all congratulated her. Tibus’s family shed tears of joy at the news that her college dream would become a reality.

Now, well into her first semester as a business management major, Tibus has settled into her routine at Centenary. A commuter student, she’s already joined a program on campus for first generation college students and recently became president of the program. Her goal: To help high school students facing similar challenges as her own. Tibus also plans to work as an admissions tour guide. “I feel like so many opportunities have opened up to me at Centenary,” Tibus said. “The number one thing I have learned through this scholarship is that it’s not just about the money. It’s definitely a big achievement that has taught me to love my story and everything that I have. To the donors who contributed to this scholarship, I would just like to say, ‘Thank you for changing my life.’”

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Applications Open for Centenary University Writing and Innovation Scholarship

One Hall Of A Night

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arren County celebrated its finest on Nov. 11 with the induction of seven new members to the Warren County Hall of Fame. The event, held at Hawk Pointe Golf Club and presented by the Warren Community College Foundation, drew a full house as (group photo standing L-R)) Matt Czigler, owner of Czig Meister Brewing in Hackettstown, Jim Kelsey, former

Hackettstown Mayor Michael Lavery, Dr. Frank Gilly, and in front, Susan Sloan, were recognized for their many contributions to the Warren County community. Also recognized as Hall of Famers posthumously were Tiffani Warren and Harry Brown, represented by Tiffani’s husband Melvin and Harry’s wife, Nancy. Nancy and Harry Brown lived in Hackettstown for many years before moving to Belvidere.

pplications are open for the Writing and Innovation Scholarship at Centenary University. The $500 scholarship will be awarded to an incoming student who plans to enroll in the University’s Bachelor of Arts in Writing program for the fall 2024 semester. The winner of the competitive award will be selected by a scholarship committee at the University.

For consideration, scholarship applicants must be accepted by Centenary University for fall 2024 and submit a 650-word writing sample addressing this prompt: How do you think technology like artificial intelligence (AI) or virtual reality (VR) will change how writers write in the future? Submissions will be evaluated based on theme, artistic vision, personal voice, and technical skill.

The scholarship is open to both incoming first-year students and transfer students.

“Now in its second year, this scholarship will recognize a talented student who aspires to a career in writing,” explained Lisa

Mastrangelo, Ph.D., associate professor of English and director of composition at the University. “Through the Bachelor of Arts in Writing, Centenary prepares students to succeed across the broad spectrum of careers in the field, from journalism to creative to professional writing.”

The Bachelor of Arts in Writing at Centenary University provides a broad-based educational approach that exposes students to many genres of writing. It is designed to meet growing demand in the profit and nonprofit sectors for employees who can think analytically and communicate clearly across a variety of platforms. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects above average job growth over the next decade in fields including public relations, technical writing, and content creation for advertising and marketing firms.

Entries for the Centenary University writing scholarship must be received by 5 pm on Jan. 30.

Have a human interest story or something you would like to share?

Email us at editor@mylifepublications.com

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • December 2023 • Page 9

The Coffee Potter Serves the Best Coffee – Just Ask the Horses!

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By Steve Sears he Coffee Potter co-owner, Mike Sciancalepore, aptly describes what his establishment means to the community.

Sciancalepore said, “We’ve been fortunate enough to celebrate a lot of life’s moments with our customers, the good and the bad. That is what I believe makes us so strong and differentiates us, the relationships that we have.”

The includes the relationships the coffee shop has with its favorite four-legged friends.

More on that in a moment.

Sciancalepore and his wife, Leah, previously managed The Coffee Potter – which opened in 2017 - for the original owners and founders, Dave and Geralyn Hickey. The Sciancalepores, along with two partners, Kyle and Wesley Jayne, purchased the business from the Hickeys on February 1, 2023.

Those that Sciancalepore hires understand from the first interview the reason for and importance of The Coffee Potter. He said, “When we are hiring somebody, I explain to them that I view our cups of coffee, that red cup that goes out the window, as simply just a tool. And that is the tool that we use to build our community.”

And that community includes numerous

equestrian centers in the Long Valley area.

Many of The Coffee Potter customers are equestrians, and it is not unusual to see someone on horseback gallop in, or a horse and carriage pull up to the drive-thru window.

The morning of this interview, Sciancalepore had seen quite a few. He said, “I have spoken to half a dozen customers already this morning that were wearing riding clothing that were going to the barn to ride. That is people that are residents of town that are going to ride at a local barn, and then there are the Centenary (University) students that are going to the barn to ride. We are also fortunate where we are, with the location on the (Columbia) trail, that it is multi-use in the sense that there are walkers, hikers, people riding on horseback, and cyclists. We do get to see a lot of customers that come by on horseback, and it is very cool because it is a mixed lot.

There is a Clydesdale farm down the road that will come through. A couple of our customers just keep their horses at a local barn that is right next to the trail, so they are able to ride here. One that I think is very cool is Lotus Equestrian Center, which has a couple of horse drawn carriages. Especially around Christmas time, we will see the horse drawn carriages come through.”

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Friendly service for the equine as well at The Coffee Potter. (courtesy of the Coffee Potter)

And with the horses, there are sometimes “well received” accidents.

Sciancalepore said, “There are times where the horses poop in the drive thru. We have to go out and clean it up, and it holds up the drive thru line. It is one of the things that I love about the community, though.

People in the line are laughing and saying to me, ‘Only in Long Valley am I waiting to get a cup of coffee because you have to clean up

horse poop from the drive thru.’”

The holiday season is wonderful at The Coffee Potter. “Christmas is great around here,” Sciancalepore said. “There are holiday happenings, Santa is right down the road, and kids will come through sometimes and decorate cookies. It is a very cool scene.”

The Coffee Potter is located at 24 Schooleys Mountain Road in Long Valley. For more information, visit www.thecoffeepotter.com.

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When One Door Closes...

I

By Richard Mabey Jr. am writing this column on an early Tuesday morning, the seventh of November. This past Saturday was a tough day for me. I called all my dog walking clients and told them that I was giving up the dog walking business. I have a little over a dozen dog walking clients. I love caring for the many pups. In all so many ways, they are my best friends.

My Cardiologist thought it be best for me to take a break from the demands of walking dogs. I often have to pick up the little puppers, to put them on a chair to put on their lead. There’s a lot more to it, than meets the eye.

I started calling my many clients at about 10:00 in the morning. I did take time to eat lunch. But other than that, I was laser focused on the job at hand, letting my friends know that I would no longer be able to care for and walk their precious pups, when they went away to visit their kids in Squirrel Valley. I made my last telephone call at a little past two in the afternoon. After I hung up the phone, after talking with my last client, I cried. It was an emotionally painful moment in time.

Walking dogs was a most wonderful thing. I truly loved the dogs whom I cared for, took walks with and fed them their meals. I was truly like an adopted uncle to them. I loved them all very much. And, I know the puppers loved me.

As I await the final decision of my Cardiologist, as she gathers the data from the many, many cardiac tests and procedures that I endured in the past month or so, I realize that this is a time of reflection, of contemplation and of prayer.

Love is a most incredibly positive powerful force. It is the key that opens the door for miracles. It is the vehicle upon which will provide a means of travel to wonderful places, inwardly and outwardly. I have a thousand and one memories of cherished moments of caring for my array of fourlegged, furry friends. But I have come to accept that God now has a new plan for me.

I plan of devoting even more time to my writing. To focus my energies to seeing that my second book gets published, before I meet Saint Peter at Heaven’s Gate. And, to bring my YouTube Channel to a higher calling.

If you are faced with a door closing in your life, please do not despair. You are here for a purpose. And, sometimes a purpose in life becomes complete. We cannot fully understand why a door closes, at the time it closes, but for the most part, there is a reason. For life is truly a series of chapters that have their own distinct purpose and calling.

When a door in life closes, it is usually emotionally painful. There is a time and a place to mourn the closing of a door in life. But we absolutely must pick ourselves up, brush the emotional dust off, and move forward in life. To march bravely for a new purpose in life.

Love, love, love the people in your life. Give of yourself, your talents and a percentage of your income to help others. We are not islands in the stream, destined to live alone.

Each and every one of us, has been put upon this earth with a purpose and a calling to serve others. We all have different talents, different strengths, different weaknesses to overcome. Forgive, forgive and forgive. Then forgive again.

God loves you more than you will ever know. Pray to

Yours truly with one of my beloved friends.

come to realize God’s immense love, on some level. Love one another. For love is the key that opens the door to amazing miracles.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard most recently published a book of poetry and short stories.

He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • December 2023 • Page 11

C

Centenary University Salutes Veterans

entenary University honored veterans during a ceremony at the Nov. 11 home men’s basketball game in the John M. Reeves Student Recreation Center. The celebration featured the presentation of the colors by the Blue Ridge American Legion Post 164 of Hackettstown and an address by Centenary University President Dale Caldwell, Ed.D. In

addition, the University’s Honor Tree—which is decorated with stars personalized to thank veterans for their service—was displayed. Information was also available about TRAC (Therapeutic Riding at Centenary), an accredited adaptive riding program that provides equine-assisted services to military veterans and their families, as well as to individuals with disabilities.

NEW YEAR, NEW CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP! If you own a business here in Mt. Olive Area

Benefits of membership:

• Be part of your local community of active businesses

• NJBiz Top 100 Chambers • Educational events with informative speakers

• Website and social media marketing • Monthly networking events *Membership after Jan. 1, 2024 is $150.

and would like to network with like-minded business people, it’s time to join the Mt. Olive Chamber of Commerce.

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Page 12 • December 2023 • Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

High School Senior Writes Book to Help Victims of Abuse

H

By Evan Wechman igh School Senior Charlotte Varela Gajewski loved reading as a child. Her parents would try to read with her nightly, hoping it would pay off years later.

Now, as she is preparing for college next year, the whole family realizes the gift reading can be. Gajewski, who also credits her terrific teachers for developing her creative writing skills, is awaiting the 2024 release of her children’s book titled, “I See You-aTrue Tale of Two Bunnies.”

The book was not written for fame or money, but to help children cope with trauma. The young author has been volunteering for the last five years at Deirdre’s House, a non-profit organization in Morristown. They provide essential services to children victimized by abuse. Gajeski is donating copies of her book with the proceeds from the sales going right back to help the children.

Gajewski has been assisting with their annual galas and pitching in wherever she could, but had a yearning to do more.

“Seeing how much Deirdre’s House helps children, I wanted to think of something that I could do to have an impact and help.

I wanted to give the children something to brighten their day and ease some of the discomfort during difficult times,” she says.

The book is a story of two bunnies living completely different lives but creating a strong bond because they see all the beautiful qualities in each other.

It’s inspired by the author’s childhood where she cared for bunnies and other animals.

She wants to pass on these lessons she learned as a kid to children who genuinely need positivity

and trust in their lives.

“I hope to teach children that regardless of their life circumstances they have to be positive, look on the bright side, and be a good friend. I feel that parents, caretakers, educators, and clinicians can use the bunnies to teach this life lesson to children for their specific situation.”

This endearing story will be read by the staff at Deirdre’s House with the children. Though the book hasn’t been officially released yet, Gajewski has generously shared advance copies with the children and has even signed a few copies for them as well.

“I know the impact and joy a book can bring,” Gajewski says. She hopes to write books in the future to inspire young readers, while also trying to find more solutions for children at college.

This has excited the

Executive Director of the house, Maria Vinci-Savettiere, Esq. She gave up the profits and accolades of practicing corporate law to fulfill her life’s mission of helping child victims. Her passion is shared by the author and the director is amazed.

She explains Deirdre’s House is the primary center in Morris County which assists child victims. It is through the work and sensitivity of people like Gajewski that they can touch so many lives.

“For us (the organization) the impact of a child helping another child is huge. This is not another book, but something a child wrote to help other children feel better,” she says.

The book will be available in early 2024 on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other retailers.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • December 2023 • Page 13

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Page 14 • December 2023 • Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

I Have a Little Dreidel the days leading up to Chanukah.

“I Have a Little Dreidel” I have a little dreidel I made it out of clay And when it’s dry and ready Oh dreidel, I shall play Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made you out of clay And when you’re dry and ready Oh Dreidel we shall play Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made you out of wood

And when you are all ready I’ll play you when I could Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made you out of glass And when you are all ready I’ll play you on the grass Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made you out of gold And when you are all ready I’ll play you in the cold Lyrics courtesy of Chabad.org.

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Chanukah celebrants may teach children the classic tune, “I Have a Little Dreidel” (also known as “The Dreidel Song”). The song is often taught to young children in advance of the Jewish holiday of Chanukah

to get them excited about the season. The online resource ejewishphilanthropy.com reports that the English version of the song was written by Shmuel Eliezer Goldfarb, who served as the Director of the Music Education Ministry on the Jewish Council in New York. A Yiddish version, written by Shmuel Shlomo Grossman, features slightly different lyrics but can be just as festive in

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The Joy of brightening other lives, bearing each others’ burdens, easing each other’s loads and supplanting empty hearts and lives with generous gifts becomes for us the magic of the holidays.”

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63 Indigo Rd Allamuchy Township Sale Price $540,000.

23 Bellflower Court Allamuchy Township Sale Price $550,000

122 Goldfinch Meadows Allamuchy Township Sale Price $480,000

28 Saxton Drive Hackettstown Sale Price $500,000

Medford model in the Bowers Glen section of Panther Valley. Home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, 2car garage, and a full finished walkout basement. Enter your open two-story foyer that opens to living room, dining room, and kitchen. Kitchen features, granite counters, maple cabinets, stainless steel, appliances, tile backsplash, center island with breakfast bar, and additional eating area. Sliders off kitchen to large deck is great for get together’s. Hardwood oak floors in foyer, living room and dining room. Family room off kitchen with gas fireplace and Bose hardwired system. Dining room with crown and chair rail molding. Primary bedroom with vaulted ceilings, walk-in closet, and full bathroom. Primary bathroom offers double sink, soaking tub, and separate stall shower.

Laundry room conveniently located on second level. Lots of closet space. Spacious finished basement with sliders to deck. Full bathroom and basement great for company.

Additionally, the Panther Valley community.

Custom colonial w 4 BR, 3 full and 2 half baths, 3 car garage (freshly painted), & finished basement. One of only 2 properties in PV with private in ground pool. Gourmet kitchen features custom cherry cabinets (stunning pull outs), granite counters, tile backsplash, SS appliances with cabinet front refrigerator, breakfast bar, and recessed lighting. Family room off kitchen has stone surround gas fireplace. Upper hall oversees foyer. Primary bedroom features trey ceiling & spacious walk-in closet. Primary bathroom features Jacuzzi tub, separate stall shower - tile surround, & double sink. First floor bedroom and full bath great for In-law suite. Recessed lighting and hard wood throughout most of home. Dining room with chair and crown molding. The finished basement offers recreation room, powder room, wine closet and enormous storage area. The grounds are professionally landscaped and back to the PV Country Club. New landscaping includes vegetable gardens, fruit trees including apple, pear, peach as well as grape vines.

Fabulous opportunity in Panther Valley. This Pine model end unit offers 2850 SF of living space. Kitchen w granite counters, white cabinets, travertine tile backsplash, and pantry. Throughout you will find stunning wainscoting, shadow box, and crown moldings as well as Joanna Gaines designer wallpaper. Gleaming hardwood floors throughout main level. Living room with gorgeous stone surround gas fireplace features sliders to deck with retractable awning and amazing mountain views. Primary bedroom features vaulted ceilings, walk in closet, and master bath with tile surround soaking tub, glass enclosed stall shower, and upgraded wood vanity. Basement is full finished walkout to lower deck with mountain views. Panther Valley is a wonderful, gated, golf community w 3 outdoor IG pools, tennis & BB courts, and playgrounds. 1 mile from Rt 80. PWPS and natural gas.

Oakmont model located in Panther Valley is tastefully done with many modern and upgraded features. kitchen is impressive with white soft-close cabinets, Quartz counters, large center island/breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and recessed lighting.

Living room features a gas fireplace with a slate and wood surround. Primary bedroom offers an amazing private wooded view and has vaulted ceilings, a spacious walk-in closet, recessed lighting, and hardwood floors. Primary closet with custom closet system. Primary bathroom with quartz counter top double sinks and tile surround walk-in shower. Guest bathroom offers double sink and tile surround tub/shower. Second floor laundry room featuring upgraded cabinets and storage system. Basement with sliders to the back patio. Hunter Douglas blinds and recessed lighting throughout home.

Panther Valley amenities include three pools, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and playgrounds.

Erica Tattersall, GRI, SFR Broker/Sales Associate 908-914-7944 (cell) 908-879-7010 (office) tattersalle@yahoo.com www.ericatattersall.com Weichert Chairman of the Board Club 2020-2022 NJAR Circle of Excellence 2020-2022 Platinum Level 2016-2019 Gold Level 2013-2015 Silver Level 2011-2012 Bronze Level

Chester/Long Valley 142 Main Street Chester, NJ 07930

Spacious 4 bedroom 3.5 bathroom, 2 car garage end unit townhouse in Panther Valley. Kitchen with maple cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, large pantry and breakfast area. Open floor plan. Family room features brick surround fireplace and sliders to large deck. Large dining room great to entertain. Private corner lot on cul de sac backs to Golf Course! Primary bedroom with sitting area, walk in closet and full bathroom. Primary bathroom and second bathroom with upgraded vanities. Tons of closet space. Finished walk out basement features bedroom, full bath, and recreation room with fireplace. Beatiful hardwood in main living area and bedrooms. Living, family, and dining room with crown moldings. Tastefully painted in neutral colors. New gutters, siding, garage doors, and composite deck. Hot water heater 2021 .Windows replaced.

Come check out this amazing three bedroom, two- and one-half bathroom colonial situated on an amazing corner lot. Original owner, Home has been well maintained. Enjoy breakfast in your eat in kitchen with white cabinets, granite counters, subway tile backsplash, and stainless-steel appliances. Kitchen with picture window of beautiful backyard with oversized deck and patio. Great for entertaining. Living room off foyer open to dining room. Laundry conveniently located on main floor. Spacious bedrooms with lots of closet space. Finished basement with large storage room. New roof 2022. New furnace and air conditioning 2019.

Don’t miss this phenomenal home. Close to shopping, amazing restaurants, parks and so much more!

What is Your Home Worth in Today’s Market?

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ericatattersall.com/what-is-my-home-worth

*Information provided by local area Multiple Listing Service. Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. © 2023 weichert, Realtors. If your property is currently listed with a real estate broker, this is not intended to be a soliciation of the listing. Each WEICHERT® franchised office is independently owned and operated. Weichert® is a federally reistered trademark owned by Weichert Co. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. REALTOR ® is a federally registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professioal who is a Member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • December 2023 • Page 15

Embracing Dietary Diversity at Your Holiday Table: A Flavorful Feast for All The holidays, a time for gratitude and celebration, can be particularly challenging for those living with dietary restrictions.

A recent national survey commissioned by Amy’s Kitchen and conducted by Atomik Research showed that more than 32% of households live with someone with a dietary restriction. Whether you’re following a gluten-free, dairyfree or plant-based diet, or feeding someone who does, there’s no need to miss out on the joy of a flavorful holiday feast. With a little guidance, you can not only survive the holiday season but truly savor it without sacrificing holiday classics.

Explore these holiday-inspired recipes that cater to various dietary preferences from the culinary team at Amy’s Kitchen, a brand known for its dedication to inclusivity and accommodating a variety of dietary lifestyles.

Green Bean Casserole For those with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, traditional green bean casserole can be a no-go. Amy’s Kitchen offers a delightful gluten-free option that is even better than the original.

• 1 medium-sized onion, sliced 1/2-inch thick • Extra virgin olive oil • Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 can Amy’s Mushroom Bisque with Porcini • 1 teaspoon cornstarch • 2 cups green beans, frozen • 1 cup wax beans, frozen • 1 cup prepared gluten-free stuffing • 1/2 cup chopped almonds Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Roast onion slices on a baking sheet with olive oil, salt and pepper for 15 minutes at 425 degrees F. Set aside. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk Amy’s Mushroom Bisque with Porcini and cornstarch until it bubbles, then remove from heat. Combine green beans, wax beans and mushroom soup mixture in a bowl, season and mix. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish or cast iron skillet. Top with 1 cup of prepared, glutenfree stuffing, mixed with chopped almonds and roasted onions. Bake for 25 minutes, or until bubbling at the edges and the topping is golden.

Lentil Shepard’s Pie with an Amy’s Kitchen Twist Shepherd’s pie is a classic holiday favorite, and this redesigned modern version is vegan and gluten free.

• 1 can Amy’s Organic Lentil Vegetable Soup • 2 cups sprouted lentils, cooked • 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, cooked with skin on

• 1/2 cup almond milk • 2 teaspoons vegan butter • 1/2 cup leeks, shaved • 1/2 cup Brussels sprouts, shaved • 2 tablespoons olive oil • Salt and pepper, to taste Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Warm one can of Amy’s Organic Lentil Vegetable Soup with sprouted lentils in a saucepan over medium heat for 8-10 minutes. In a separate pan, mash potatoes with almond milk and vegan butter, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté leeks and Brussels sprouts in olive oil until slightly crispy, seasoning with salt and pepper. Layer soup mixture at the bottom of a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and finish with sautéed leeks and Brussels sprouts. Bake for 5-7 minutes and serve immediately.

Amy’s Kitchen offers a wide array of holiday recipes to help you create a delicious, inclusive and memorable celebration.

Find more holiday-inspired dishes and ideas at: amys.com/ eating-well/recipes.

While accommodating dietary restrictions and lifestyles can seem tricky, easy tweaks on classic recipes means you can host your holiday feast without sacrificing taste and tradition. (StatePoint)

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Page 16 • December 2023 • Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

I

Chester’s Publick House Reopens To Rich History

n nearly 200 years of history, the Publick House has been an inn, a school, a stagecoach stop and the scene of more than a few paranormal events. In 1810, the Publick House at 111 Main St., was known as the Brick Tavern, and was a well-known stagecoach stop for those traveling on the Washington Turnpike from Morristown to Phillipsburg. Almost two centuries later, the preserved 35,000 square foot building reopened in 2010, in the form of a restaurant/bar and gelato café. The renovations included 10 suites, located above the restaurant. The building had been closed for renovations since it was sold and purchased in March by Joseph and Bart Lubrano of Randolph Township.

The Publick House’s denoted Zephaniah Drake, a proprietor of the first line of stagecoaches, built the original Publick House, known as the Brick Hotel or Brick Tavern, in 1810, according to the Chester Historical Society website. Travelers going from New Jersey to Pennsylvania made frequent stops at the inn to eat or rest before their long journeys. In 1854, educator, William Rankin, added two wings and turned the tavern into the Chester Institute, a classical college preparatory school. Since then, the building has been maintained and run by a variety of owners and was registered in

1976 under the National Historic Registry as a “historic American building.” The Publick House has served as a “publick” gathering spot once again in the heart of the Chester community, where memories and many tales indeed have been made. Aging and time took a toll on the building and forced its recent closing. Many anticipated a preservation and re-opening and great strides have been made to do so, as it approached its bicentennial in the year 2010. This landmark building continued to undergo gradual renovations in order to preserve the inn and to return it to the community it has served for so long.

Haunted ‘House’ Stories of hauntings and ghosts have also become part of the restaurant’s alluring history. There have been many rumors, such as pots and pans “flying across the kitchen” and guests’ baggage mysteriously changing rooms, that have been told about the Publick House.

Assemblyman Guy Gregg, who owned the inn from 1983 to 2003, said that in his time at the restaurant, many guests spoke of supernatural experiences. “There is a history behind the Publick House,” Gregg said.

Gregg’s wife, Linda, also said many guests would tell her that although they closed and locked their doors at nights, they would wake up and find them open. “Many

guests complained about the same thing and some also said they would hear voices during the night.” The Greggs both said that the building, which has a lot of catacombs and secret passageways, has an energy and a feeling to it, which is beyond explanation.

“Sometimes we’d be sitting around and a coldness would come over us,” Mrs. Gregg said. “And then, in an instant, it would be gone.” Mrs. Gregg said the building is certainly filled with paranormal activity, which even naysayers have recognized. Neither

the then owners nor their employees would talk about the alleged ghosts. “I’m sure the spirits are not here to harm us.” Mrs. Gregg said.

The Restored Bar, that sits in the lounge area of the Publick House has been completely restored to its original state. Even the mirror behind the assortment of liquors and wines are original, dating back to the 1800’s. Also restored is a working fireplace, as well as the continued on page 17

Benito’s

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • December 2023 • Page 17

TRATTORIA Superb Northern Italian Cuisine Established 1991 Morris County’s Top Restaurant

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Chester’s Publick House... continued from page 16 porch, which facilitates outdoor dining.

In 2020, the restaurant and hotel were closed due to Covid, and sat vacant until June 2023 when Restaurant Village Hospitality Group, owned and operated by Steve and Andrea Bussel, purchased and reopened it as PH Steakhouse and the new Publick House Hotel. After extensive renovations, it finally reopened on September

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28, 2023. The facility now boasts a tavern-like steakhouse and 10 suites above.

In addition, the catering room, which can accommodate up to 80 guests, is open for weddings, parties, paranormal functions, and a future comedy club.

Please visit our websites at PHSteakhouse.com and PublickHouseHotel.com for more information and events.

Tasty Tidbits about Eggnog

ggnog is a rich and delicious beverage that has become synonymous with the most festive time of year. This milk- and egg-based concoction is tasty on its own, or it can be dressed up with other flavors and spiked with a favorite spirit when celebrating the holiday season with other adult partygoers.

December is National Eggnog Month, and December 24 is National Eggnog Day. There is no more perfect time of year to learn everything you can about eggnog — all the while sipping a cup of this creamy concoction. Indulge in these festive facts about the beverage, courtesy of Mental Floss, The Fact Site and Tastemade.

• Eggnog likely originated in the medieval period and was known as “posset,” a hot, milk-based drink made of spices and wine.

Even though posset could be a cocktail, it also was used as a remedy for colds and flu for its soothing properties.

• Milk, eggs and sherry used in the early recipes were difficult to come by, so when eggnog first appeared it was a drink only the wealthy could enjoy. That changed when eggnog was popularized in the American colonies, where dairy products and liquor were more readily available.

• Entymologists believe “eggnog” stems from the word “noggin,” which refers to small wooden mugs often used to serve strong ale, known by the slang word “nog.”

• In the Medieval period, it was risky to drink milk straight because it wasn’t pasteurized. Eggnog contained alcohol so that it would kill off any harmful bacteria in the milk.

• A typical homemade version of eggnog has roughly one egg per serving. However, commercial eggnog is regulated by the FDA and can only contain 1 percent of the product’s final weight in egg yolk solids. That stems from fear of raw egg and salmonella.

• President George Washington

apparently enjoyed serving eggnog at Christmas, and even had his own special recipe (see below), according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

• There is no right or wrong alcohol to use when preparing eggnog. Distilled spirits like rum, sherry, cognac, and whiskey all have produced suitable eggnogs.

• Puerto Rican coquito is a traditional drink that is very similar to eggnog.

• Individuals concerned about eggs or milk in eggnog can enjoy a vegan recipe made from nut milk instead. Commercially produced vegan eggnog offerings are now more widely available.

• One of the more notable flavors in eggnog comes from the use of nutmeg.

Nutmeg is a fragrant spice made from grinding the seed of the nutmeg tree.

Now that you’ve learned about eggnog, whip up a batch of George Washington’s original recipe this holiday season.

Eggnog (George Washington’s original interpretation) 1 quart cream 1 quart milk 1 dozen tablespoons sugar 1 pint brandy 1⁄2 pint rye whiskey 1⁄2 pint Jamaican rum 1⁄4 pint sherry Eggs (Washington forgot to include the number of eggs, so home chefs can improvise or use six, which seems to be the standard in traditional recipes) Mix liquor first, then separate yolks and whites of eggs, add sugar to beaten yolks, mix well. Add milk and cream, slowly beating. Beat whites of eggs until stiff and fold slowly into mixture. Let sit in cool place for several days. Taste frequently.

Tip: Today’s recipe makers may want to set the eggnog in the refrigerator as the “cool place” of choice.

Page 18 • December 2023 • Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Newark Academy Graduate Makes Big Splash in Debut Novel

B

By Evan Wechman en Purkert recently had his debut novel The Men Can’t Be Saved published by the major New York publishing house, Abrams Publishing and is already receiving lots of attention. Though Purkert reached wide acclaim in 2018 when he published a collection of his poems in For the Love of Endings, critics and fans both believe he has made a tough but successful transition.

His name might not be known throughout the United States yet, but doors are starting to open for him.

He has recently garnered great reviews from The Washington Post and Kirkus Reviews.

He is also starting to attract a following in the North Jersey area since he graduated high school at Newark Academy in Livingston. Though Purkert was always fascinated by words and poems, the education he received there was profound. He remembers fondly his teacher, Betsy LaPadula and her passion for writing.

“She made me fall in love with English Literature, but especially with poetry. It just felt like poetry, especially was the place to go for anyone obsessed with words. And I love language more than anything, so she had a huge impact on me and the trajectory of my life and career, Purkert says.

Though the author was initially passionate about poetry, he continued to write short stories and study fiction while attending Harvard University. After his collection of poems was published, many might have assumed this would be his favored track. However, Purkert was fascinated by writers who had switched

styles and wanted to craft fiction as well.

Though he had some doubts as to whether it would be a success, the young author worked for about ten years to make sure the book would be a success.

“My background is as a poet. I didn’t know how to write a novel or book of this size other than to just labor over every sentence and to try to care as much about every word in the novel as I care about every word in a poem.”

Though the book’s success has been felt among both casual readers and literary pundits, the meaning of the book has people chatting.

The main character Seth is a witty but arrogant copywriter who often jeopardizes himself and others due to his inflated ego. According to Purkert, some readers see it as a comedy while others see it as a cautionary tale about narcissists. Either way, the author is satisfied leaving the book’s message open to be interpreted by the reader.

Even the title The Men Can’t Be Saved has been interpreted differently by his

following as well. According to Purkert though the title came towards the end and was not the initial working title.

“All of the book is sort of leading to that question, is Seth going to redeem himself or not,” he says.

Either way, the change from poetry to fiction has worked out and Purkert admits that part of being an artist is taking chances and crossing boundaries.

According to him, “experiments across genres is sort of an artist making art in the highest sense because they’re taking a big experiment, they’re making a big leap.”

Many of his readers are now wondering what is next for the young author. Since he has successfully published both poems and novels, there is again a small debate over what his next project will entail. However, Purkert is keeping his lips sealed.

“I can’t say too much other than that I’m continuing to write poems and I’m continuing to write novels and I love working in the two media. They offer me different things and I’m grateful for both.”

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • December 2023 • Page 19

D

4 Fun Facts about the Month of December

ecember is arguably the most festive month of the year. The holiday season and all the gatherings with family and friends make the final month of the year a busy time. But a peek under the proverbial hood reveals that there’s more to December than the holiday season.

1. Armchair linguists might know that the Latin word “decem” means “ten,” which is a little curious given that December is the twelfth month of the year. So why isn’t December the tenth month of the year? Like other months on the modern calendar, including October and November, December once occupied a different place on the calendar, namely the Julian calendar that was used prior to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar. Back then, December was the tenth month on the calendar. Though its position changed when the Gregorian calendar was adopted, its name remained the same.

2. It’s easy to overlook in a month populated by holidays like Chanukah, Christmas and Kwanzaa, but the winter solstice is a significant day on the calendar as well.

According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the 2023 winter solstice occurs on December 21 at 10:27 p.m. EST for the northern hemisphere. The winter solstice might not be sun worshippers’ favorite day of the

year, as it’s the day with the least amount of sunlight all year long. However, one positive to keep in mind is that, once the winter solstice occurs, each day thereafter experiences a gradual increase in daylight. That should give anyone yet another reason to celebrate in December.

3. December has historically been a month of firsts, particularly for women and politicians. On December 1, 1919, Lady Nancy Astor became the first woman to serve in the British House of Commons.

Exactly 69 years later, Benazir Bhutto was nominated for the role of prime minister of Pakistan. Bhutto ultimately became the first woman to be elected as head of a democratic government in a Muslim-majority country. Political firsts in December are not limited to events involving women. A year after Bhutto was nominated, Russia’s Mikhail Gorbachev became the first Soviet Russian leader to visit the Vatican and meet the Pope.

4. January might be the month people most associate with efforts to change their fortunes, but the birthstone of December also is considered a symbol of good fortune.

The Farmer’s Almanac notes that one of the birthstones of December is turquoise, which some believe is symbolic of good fortune and success.

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Arthur Godfrey – Pilot and Showman

A

By Henry M. Holden rthur Morton Godfrey was born on August 31, 1903, in New York City. Because of harsh economic conditions, his family moved to Hasbrouck Heights at an early age.

His parents were poor, and Godfrey dropped out of high school at 15 and worked as a baker’s delivery boy.

Godfrey served in the United States Navy from 1920 to 1924 as a radio operator on a destroyer. He then returned home to care for the family after his father’s death.

Godfrey learned to fly in 1929, while working on broadcast radio in the Washington, D.C., area. He was badly injured on his way to a flying lesson in 1931, when a truck lost its left front wheel and hit him head on.

Godfrey spent months recuperating.

Additional radio training came during Godfrey’s service in the Coast Guard from 1927 to 1930. He passed a stringent qualifying examination and was admitted to the prestigious Radio Materiel School at the Naval Research Laboratory, graduating in 1929.

While in Baltimore, he appeared in a local talent show broadcast and became popular enough to land his own brief weekly radio program.

During World War II, he served as a reserve officer in the United States Navy in a public affairs role.

As a reserve officer, he used his public position to persuade the Navy into qualifying him as a Naval Aviator. Later the United States Air Force, successfully recruited him into the Air Force Reserve.

He made a television movie in 1953, taking control of an Eastern Air Lines Lockheed Constellation airliner and flying to Miami, showing how safe airline travel had become.

He became a strong promoter of middle-class values and spent time with his middle-class fans vacationing in Hawaii and Miami Beach, Florida, former enclaves of the wealthy.

In Hawaii, he helped raise funds for the “Coronation” carillon installed at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, in 1956.

His continued unpaid promotion of Eastern Air Lines earned him the undying gratitude of Eddie Rickenbacker, the World War I flying ace who was the president of the airline. He was such a good friend of the airline that Rickenbacker took a retiring Douglas DC-3, fitted with an executive interior, reconditioned engines, and presented it to Godfrey.

On January 7, 1950, Godfrey was preparing to take off from Teterboro Airport (TEB) in his private DC-3. He requested a takeoff on runway 32 which was short but faced into the wind. At the end of the runway was that hill in Hasbrouck Heights.

The tower refused his request and instructed him to use runway #1 although it had a strong crosswind. He complied, but he claimed that the windy conditions that day required him to turn immediately after takeoff. The fact is that he was upset with the tower because they would not give him the runway he requested. His actions caused him to buzz the tower, almost running into it.

The four tower personnel scrambled for the stairway. When they had calmed down, they reported Godfrey to the FAA. Years later, the tower chief recalled what happened. “About halfway down the strip Godfrey flew at a low altitude veering over the waiting aircraft and headed for the control tower. “We could have counted the plane’s rivets as it roared over our heads,” said one controller.

Asked if he was in trouble, Godfrey replied “That was a normal takeoff for Teterboro.”

The tower chief wrote up a report to his superiors citing the incident, as a clear violation of the FAA rules. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said that Godfrey’s pilots license would be revoked if he couldn’t satisfactorily explain why he had buzzed the tower.

Being familiar with TEB this author can say that Godfrey’s sharp turn over the aircraft waiting to takeoff was unwarranted and dangerous. Had it not been for two powerful engines, and the skill of the pilot, the story would have had a different outcome.

After a long battle with the FAA, Godfrey had his license suspended for six months.

His fight with the FAA made him more popular than ever, and his TV and radio shows increased his popularity by the millions.

For more than 30 years, Godfrey kept an assortment of airplanes at Teterboro and, at the peak of his popularity he commuted regularly between New Jersey and his farm in Virginia.

In 1966, Godfrey participated in a record-setting flight around the world. He and Dick Merrill, Eastern Airlines, most celebrated captain, put together the logistics of the flight. With Fred Austin, a TWA captain and Karl Keller, Rockwell Standard Corporation, test pilot, they circled the globe in a Rockwell Jet Commander business aircraft.

The 23,333-mile flight, included 20 refueling stops was made in 55 hours and 30 minutes flight time with an average speed of 423 mph.

Because of his close friendship with the US Air Force, General Curtis LeMay, Godfrey became such a supporter of the Air Force that he resigned his commission as a commander in the Navy Reserve and accepted a retired commission in the Air Force Reserve. All through the 50s and the 60s he was allowed to fly in highly sophisticated

Godfrey’s DC-3 gad a very similar livery and this DC-3. (Photo Henry M. Holden)

Air Force aircraft. On the civilian side, he flew all generations of commercial aircraft up to the Boeing 747.

In July 1974 he flew solo from New Jersey to Point Barrow, Alaska, and back 12,000 nautical miles in 62 hours.

Although Godfrey had a passion for flight, he was also an in-demand showman.

The first was a stage play with Ray Bolger in Three to Make Ready. His next appearance was to play opposite Maureen O’Sullivan in Never Too Late, and on the summer circuit in Generations. In 1966, he appeared to costar with Doris Day in the film Glass Botton Boat.

During his 40-year career, Godfrey received Awards from military and civilian organizations for each flying achievement and for his promotion of flight and of flying during a period where the average citizen had a deep fear of airplanes.

Although he lost his license for six months, the entertainer rebuked the FAA and Teterboro for years on both his daily radio programs and television show. At the

time he was possibly the most popular entertainer in the United States.

His license suspension set off a feud between Godfrey and the FAA that brought Teterboro to the attention of Godfrey’s 40-million listeners. Godfrey chastised the FAA and Teterboro for years on both his highly rated daily radio show, and television shows.

Godfrey would constantly promote aviation to his audiences, private, commercial, and military. He would tell his listeners, “Everybody should learn to fly. If I can then it can’t be too hard. After all, if I could learn anyone can,” he chuckled.

When Godfrey died on March 16, 1983, he left all his aviation awards and memorabilia to the New Jersey Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum. Those trophies, plaques, and medals are on display in the museum today.

In the end Godfrey said, “Despite a closet full of aviation trophies, the only feat which I will probably be remembered is allegedly buzzing the tower at Teterboro.”

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hackettstown Life • December 2023 • Page 21

A Christmas Story: The Sacrifice

I

By Richard Mabey Jr. t was in early December of 1967, when I was 14 years old and in my freshman year at Boonton High School, that I was to learn just how much Grandpa Mabey loved Grandma Mabey. For the love did shine, from Grandpa’s heart, not by words, but by true sacrifice.

It was in the dawn of the Summer of 1964, when I was 10 years old and had just completed the fifth grade, that Grandma and Grandpa moved in with us at the old Mabey Homestead. This was the very home that Grandpa’s father, William Mabey, had built in 1895.

Right behind the old Mabey Homestead, once stood a big garage. It was there that Grandpa stored his old Indian motorcycle. My grandfather, Watson Mabey, had always told me that he had bought the motorcycle, with his brother Earl, during the Fall of 1916. This was just before the United States became involved in the First World War. Grandpa always kept the old Indian motorcycle stored in the northwest corner of our old garage. This was the side of the garage that was closest to Mabey Lane. Grandpa kept a piece of heavy canvas over his old motorcycle. It was on an early Saturday morning, in early December, that I helped Grandpa remove the heavy canvas from Grandpa’s pride and joy motorcycle.

I remember that there was a window that looked out to Earl’s Meadow, the back acre that was to be the site of Grandpa’s brothers home, for when he returned from World War I. Sadly, Earl was killed in battle, in France. After we removed the old canvas tarp, Grandpa stared out to Earl’s Meadow.

“My brother and I used to pick apples from that old apple tree, when were boys about your age. We’d put them all in a big wooden basket and my mom would bake a couple of

apple pies,” Grandpa shared with me, with a bit of a tear in his eye.

“Fred Belmont’s going to stop by this morning. I’m going to sell him this old motorcycle,” Grandpa said to me, in a most solemn and reflective voice.

I didn’t know quite what to say. I knew how much the old Indian motorcycle meant to Grandpa. It was all so representative of the bond that he had with his late brother, Earl.

“I saw a gold necklace in the jewelry store in town. I’ve thought long and hard about it. I’m going to buy that gold necklace for your grandmother. I’ll have the money when I sell my old motorcycle to Old Man Belmont,” Grandpa quietly told me.

It was about an hour later that Fred Belmont showed up to buy Grandpa’s cherished Indian motorcycle. I helped my dad load up Grandpa’s motorcycle onto Fred’s pickup truck.

As Fred drove off our driveway and up Mabey Lane, Grandpa did his best to hold back the tears. But, despite his best efforts, tears ran down Grandpa’s old cheeks.

After lunch, Dad, Grandpa and I drove down to the jewelry store on Main Street in Lincoln Park. It was located just to the right hand side of Moe’s Sweet Shop. Grandpa smiled from ear to ear, as he paid for the beautiful golden necklace.

Life is short. Sometimes we have to make sacrifices for the people we love. The Christmas of 1967 was to be Grandpa’s last Christmas, on this side of Heaven’s Gate. I think that deep inside his heart, Grandpa knew it was going to be his last Christmas.

My grandmother, Bertha Storms Mabey, cherished the beautiful golden necklace till the day the good Lord called her Home, on the fifth of January of 1989.

I don’t think a day has gone by that I haven’t thought

Grandma and Grandpa, in their youthful days, on the old Indian motorcycle.

about my paternal grandparents. I remember Grandpa’s crooked smile and the twinkle in his eye. I can still see Grandma peeling apples to bake an apple pie.

In memory, I return to the old Mabey Homestead. I can still hear the echo of Grandpa’s infectious laugh. I can still hear the resonance of Grandma’s sweet voice, telling stories of her Irish heritage. Love the people in your life. Forgive, forgive, forgive. Cherish every moment.

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

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