Hackettstown February 2021

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Music in Her Soul: Mount Olive’s Chelsea Carlson Celebrates Music Everyday

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By Megan Roche ount Olive’s own Chelsea Carlson remembers walking into a recording studio for the first time.

“The very first time I walked into a recording studio, I had never done something so real. I was used to recording demos in the practice rooms at Berklee. It’s such a cool feeling to hear everything come together with instruments and harmonies and special effects. To go there and to have your music come to life, there is no better feeling,” Carlson says.

Growing up in a musical family, Carlson began taking lessons on all different instruments in middle school. It wasn’t until high school that she knew that she wanted to go to college for music. Carlson set her sights high, applying to Berklee College of Music. When she was accepted after the audition process, she couldn’t believe it.

“Music was just always a big part of my family, whether that be my family members playing instruments or listening to records. I started lessons in middle school and then I really got into the singer/songwriter thing in about 2010.

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I auditioned for Berklee and I applied, but I didn’t really have high hopes. At the time, the instrument I went to Berklee for was bass guitar and I had only been playing it for two years prior to auditioning. I ended up going to the audition and really fell in love with the school and really hoping and praying to get in. I never dreamed it would actually happen,” Carlson says.

In 2013, Carlson was named Top New Female Act at the Jersey Acoustic Music Awards. She credits that experience as one of the many that inspired her to record.

“That was definitely a moment where I realized I was actually an official player on the board of the New Jersey music scene,” Carlson says.

For years, Carlson wrote her own music. Thanks to her inspiring songwriting class at Berklee, much of the songs from her debut album The Broken Road appear. Carlson is often inspired musically by the likes of Sia and Adele.

“As soon as I started to build up a repertoire of original songs, I knew I needed to record them. I originally planned to do an EP. I’d always have plans to do it and be in talks with a studio and the plans would just never work out. In 2013, I needed to have something to show people about where they could find my music. Recording albums are very expensive so I turned to Kickstarter. Within two weeks, the project was funded which put the money end of the spectrum to ease. For the next year, I was really able to just focus on the fun stuff with recording,” Carlson said.

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The Broken Road officially dropped in February 2016.

Carlson has followed up her debut album with A Cozy Christmas. The album holds a special spot for Carlson as continued on page 2

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Music in Her Soul... continued from front page it was the very first album that she recorded and produced all on her own. It all started with a special tradition, born in 2015.

“When I was releasing my original album, my producer had gotten a whole load of new equipment, but we had already finished the recording process with my album. My producer wanted to record a Christmas song, so I recorded O Holy Night back in 2015. Every year since then, I’ve re-released it as a single where all the money I make goes to charity. Being that I released it 5 years ago, I figured that anyone who wanted the song, probably already has it so my charitable donations were not as big. I tried to brainstorm about my favorite holiday song, and I couldn’t just pick one, so I decided to do an entire album,” Carlson says with a laugh.

After dropping A Cozy Christmas, Carlson is already fully making plans for 2021.

She is currently in talks with a studio to

create a second original album. She is also working on an album with a folk trio, Bardy Pardy, the other members people she met while working amongst the cast of the New Jersey Renaissance Faire.

When it comes to inspiring the musicians of tomorrow, Carlson gives back through teaching lessons in voice, piano, guitar, ukulele, and bass. Her best advice to those trying to make it into the music business? Go out and be heard!

“You have to get out there in some way. Whether that is through putting musical content online or by playing gigs that aren’t just your school talent show.

You need feedback from people and in order to get that feedback, you have to get out and perform and gain the experience. Through that, you’ll learn where you want to take your talents and how you want to get there,” Carlson said.

Carlson’s music can be heard on iTunes, YouTube Music, Spotify, BandCamp, and more. For more information on Carlson, visit www.chelseacarlsonmusic.com.

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Hackettstown High School Alum Publishes First Children’s Book

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By Steve Sears andi Clark, a 1975 graduate of Hackettstown High School, recently published her first children’s book.

“Hay Hager and Clammy” is based on characters that Sandi’s father, John Clark, Jr., created when she and her sisters were younger. The book is illustrated by Cumberland, Maryland’s Beth Artice.

Clark explains the idea behind her book.

“Mom and dad would put us to bed, but we wouldn’t go to bed, we wouldn’t go to sleep.

So, dad came up with an idea about ‘Hay Hager and Clammy.’ The original Hay Hager lived in the light bulb of our bedroom. And Clammy, it’s kind of hard to describe because he didn’t have a voice back then, so I gave him a voice. And so, when Clammy would come out, he was - I’m trying to show you something you can’t see – you know how you clap your fingers on top of your thumb?

That was Clammy. And he would go, ‘Mee, mee, mee,’ like he was talking to us, kind of preparing us to go to bed. So, when Clammy came out we knew bedtime was near.

And then when we got into bed and we got tucked in, dad would say, ‘Well, Hay Hager is going to bed now, too,’ and he would shut the light off, and so Hay Hager would go to bed and so did we.”

Clark took her dad’s tale and shipped it

to the sea. Clammy remains a clam, but Hay Hager is now a lighthouse, protecting the nearby water. “I love the shore,” she says. In the book, the lonely Clammy has no one to talk to and looks up to the stars, wishing for a friend. Hay Hager illuminates the lonely bivalve mollusk and, when learning Clammy’s identity and realizing he needs a friend, lovingly promises to be one.

Clark’s dad read the story, which is actually a book length poem, before he died in May of 2012, but he never saw it published.

“Every word I wrote,” says Clark, “reminded me of my dad.”

Clark, who currently lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia, is a disabled Air Force Veteran and a widow of a Vietnam vet. Born in 1957 at New Jersey’s Ft. Dix Army Hospital, she graduated from Shepherdstown College (now Shepherd University) in West Virginia in 2002 with an RBA Degree. Currently enrolled at the American Military University, Clark is studying for her BA in Military History with a concentration in World War II. Clark originally wrote “Hay Hager and Clammy” in 1993. Recovering from a slip and fall injury, she, while being afforded time to sit all day, reached back to her Hackettstown High School days and started to write poetry. “It took me about two weeks to get it together, to what I would consider perfect,”

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she recalls. All her friends who had little children loved it, so she looked to publish it. She approached about 100 publishers, but minus illustrations, there were no takers.

Therefore, Clammy sat silently and Hay Hagar’s light was decommissioned for 27 years – until May 2020, when Clark unearthed it. Her interest renewed, she sought to find an illustrator. Artice, a tattoo and piercing artist, animal lover and illustrator, and also mom of a one-year-old daughter, does tattoos for Clark’s son Daniel, while her husband, Craig, does Sandi’s tattoos. “I had two tattoos put on,” says Clark regarding one visit. “One is The Beatles ‘Yellow Submarine,’ and then when it really struck me was when I had my Liverpool Football Club from England tattooed (on me). I was sitting there, and I was admiring the beauty of his (Craig’s) creation, and all of a sudden it just felt like somebody slammed me in the back of my head. ‘Why don’t you ask them to illustrate?’”

Artice, per Clark, did some gorgeous work. “I think the illustrations are just phenomenal.”

Clark, who currently is preparing two to three more book ideas for the “Hay Hager and Clammy” series, thanks her “support team,” which includes her daughter, Jenn, and her husband Bruce; the beforemen-

tioned son, Daniel; grandchildren Hannah, Haylee, Hunter, Daykota, Camden, Makinzy, Landon and her soon-to-come great grandchild due in May or June 2021; her sisters Mary and Sue, and her lovable pets, Alli, Blake. Patches and Diesel.

“Hay Hager and Clammy” is available on Amazon.com. Clark also states that she sent a copy of the book to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (https://dollyparton.com/ imagination-library). “She runs a wonderful project for kids. They have not received it yet, but I’m hopeful.”

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• • • •

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Teeth Whitening Crowns and Bridge Smile Makeovers Sedation Dentistry

Dental Implants Over Dentures

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here is a large percentage of the U.S. population that wear full dentures: it is estimated 23 million have no teeth in both the upper and lower jaws, and 12 million have no teeth in one jaw.

90% of these people wear full dentures.

A full denture in the upper jaw quite often fits reasonably well, but the lower denture can be troublesome: it can slide around within the mouth, causing pain, frustration, and embarrassment.

There is a dental implant solution known as an “overdenture.” An overdenture is a full denture that snaps onto dental implants that are placed within the jaw, typically the lower jaw. The implants eliminate, or significantly reduce, these issues of denture movement, pain, frustration, and embarrassment.

The number of implants placed can vary. Two, three, or four implants are the most common configuration. It depends greatly upon the amount of bone available, and the amount of money a patient wishes to invest.

It is important to realized that the final

denture is still removable, meaning the teeth need to be taken out after meals to clean, and at bedtime, the teeth should be removed to rest the tissues in the mouth.

In contrast, there are some implant solutions that are non-removable, meaning the teeth do not come in-and-out.

Temporary dentures are sometimes required in the process of making overdentures. They might be needed to allow for healing after extractions, to allow implants to integrate with bonel for a few months, or to try out a re-designed smile. At times, these temporary dentures might be utilized as the final teeth.

Costs for treatment can vary from $4,000 to $16,000. There are many variables involved, and “one size does NOT fit all.” A consultation for YOUR particular situation is something to consider, to get a more accurate estimate.

Why would a person select an overdenture versus a non-removable option? Typically finances are the reason. An overdenture provides a great service, as it allows a person to increase their chewing ability,

and provide comfort since the overdenture doesn’t move around as much as a traditional denture. The implants also help to preserve bone in your jaw, which is important for strength and integrity.

Maintenance of an ovedenture is something else to consider. The denture will still wear out like a regular denture, typically with an average of 7 years. The “attachments” or “snaps” that go into the overdenture will need replacement on a regular schedule, too: this is typically 10 months to 2 years.

If you have been considering a denture, or are a current denture wearer, overdentures are one treatment option worth considering!

About the author: Dr. Ira Goldberg has been performing implant procedures for 26 years. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant Dentistry, a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He performs all phases of implant dentistry at his office in Succasun-

na, NJ. He lectures to dentists in the field

Ira Goldberg,ForDDS, FAGD, DICO of implantology. a free consultation, including a free 3-D scan (if necessary), please call his office at (973) 328-1225 or visit his website at www.MorrisCountyDentist.com Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist, and also a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.

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Are You Poisoning Yourself?

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n today’s world there are poisons lurking around every corner. You may not realize it, but you could be slowly poisoning yourself every single day with skincare products, household cleaning products and even the foods you are eating. Unfortunately, most products on the market today do contain chemicals that are toxic to the body, so you need to stay informed. For example, research has shown that most of the chemicals used to preserve products or increase shelf life are Endocrine disruptors. Your endocrine system is what controls hormones and many of the body’s functions, so you don’t want anything to disrupt its natural flow. These added chemicals mimic hormones so your body cannot recognize them as foreign to get rid of them. This wreaks havoc on the endocrine system and the body in general. Among other things, these endocrine disruptors have been linked to cancer and reproductive issues. It is also a concern that these

toxic chemicals can be stored in the body for years!

So what can you do? Don’t panic, but clean up your life today!

START READING LABELS on everything and stay informed! Chances are if you can’t pronounce an ingredient or don’t know what it is, it is most-likely toxic.

Consume as many organic fruits and vegetables as possible. Follow “The Clean 15, Dirty Dozen” guidelines: For the Clean 15, save your money and buy conventional because these fruits and veggies are known to have very low amounts of toxins. The Clean 15: Avocados, Sweet Corn, Pineapples, Cabbages, Onions, Sweet Peas, Papayas, Asparagus, Mangoes, Eggplants, Honeydews, Kiwis, Cantaloupes, Cauliflower and Broccoli.

The Dirty dozen are the 12 fruits and vegetables that contain the highest amounts of harmful chemicals. Don’t risk eating these unless they are organic. The Dirty Doz-

en: Strawberries, Spinach, Nectarines, Apples, Peaches, Pears, Cherries, Grapes, Celery, Tomatoes, Sweet Bell Peppers and Potatoes.

Wash all fruits and vegetables with an organic veggie wash to wash away surface chemicals.

Easily make your own organic cleaning and skincare products or only buy products that do not contain harmful chemicals.

Get Acupuncture! Acupuncture is a natural way to help your body detox from chemicals, balance your hormones and bring your body back to homeostasis.

Schedule your appointment today at Mt. Olive Acupuncture & Wellness, 1 Old Wolfe Rd., Suite 208, Budd Lake, call 973-527-7978 or visit www.mtoliveacupuncture.com.

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Happy 102 Birthday Victor Farina

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hat a beautiful life Bentley Commons Paragon Village resident, Victor Farina, is living. On Friday January 8, 2021, Victor turned 102 years old. He is one of the very few people that can say that he beat COVID and turned 102 years old in the same week!

Victor is a first generation American whose family came from Naples, Italy. He was born in Newark, NJ in 1919. He worked in banking, real estate and the family wine business. When he wasn’t working, music has always been one of his biggest passions. He is a talented violinist and pianist.

Even at 102 years old he still plays the piano every day. He served in the Army during WWII and married the love of his life, Teresa Melillo, on April 4, 1948. They have 2 daughters & 4 grandchildren. Not only does Victor still enjoys playing piano but he also loves attending Bible Reading and dancing whenever he can.

Bentley Commons at Paragon Village wanted to do something special for Victor’s birthday even in the middle of a Pandemic. We were able to have a socially dis-

tanced celebration with his Paragon Family while his family Zoomed in to join the party. What birthday is complete without your favorite dinner? Not Victor’s. He requested “Chef Carlos’ famous bean soup”, filet mignon, mashed potatoes, and a homemade cheesecake and that is exactly what he got!

Please join us in wishing Victor a very happy 102nd birthday!

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Mount Olive Food Pantry Debuts New Website

he Mount Olive Pantry has a new Website: www.mountolivepantry.org.

The new site is more secure, easier to navigate, and features the ability to more safely donate to the Pantry from the site (using a credit card). There is a new opportunity to maximize the impact of your donation and make it go further by absorbing the processing fee (don’t worry, it’s so low you’ll be jealous). We will soon be offering the opportunity to make a recurring monthly donation so no one in Mount Olive goes to bed hungry!

The site also has a list of needed items and an updated list of where you can drop

your non-perishable donations off. The pantry serves anyone who lives, works, or worships in Mount live, and participates collaboratively with other area pantries.

One in ten people in NJ go to bed hungry. Please help us lower that number!

If you can, donate. And please share this news with your friends from town. If you are hungry, please reach out to Sue Morse.

Client confidentiality is taken very seriously.

Shout out to Mount Olive Chamber of Commerce Members Felicia Lucco and Jeff Scotti who built and donated the new website, and Claudia Ehrgott who created and donated the new logo!

Did You Know?

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listers can form for a number of reasons. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, injuries, allergic reactions and infections can lead to the formation of blisters. Burns or scalds and even sunburns can cause blisters to form as well. Blisters can be painful or itchy, and that discomfort may compel some people to pop them. But popping blisters is a potentially costly mistake, as the American Academy of Dermatology notes that popping blisters can lead to infection. Patience may be a person’s best ally when confronting blisters, as the

AAD says most blisters will heal on their own in one to two weeks. Covering a blister can help reduce pain and discomfort, especially if a bandage is situated in such a way as to ensure that the middle of it is a little raised. That can reduce friction between the blister and the bandage. Once a blister has drained, the AAD advises washing the area with soap and water and applying petroleum jelly. It’s important to leave the “roof” of the blister intact even after the blister has drained, as doing so protects the raw skin underneath it as the area heals.

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Morris County Resident Publishes First Book

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By Steve Sears hippany resident Donovan Russo is a happy guy.

Being a first-time published author can have that wonderful effect on you.

Russo’s first novel, “Steven’s War”, was published early in December 2020, and Russo first held the physical book on December 21. He recalls opening the delivered box of books, looking at the front cover, and then lifting a copy out of the box. “It was exciting.

I’ve seen the eBook version, but to actually hold the book in my hand, it was just really unique,” he says. “It was a proud moment, and it kind of felt like I guess in some way this journey with writing was kind of coming to fruition, if that makes sense.”

For Russo, who studied English at Montclair State and is currently working towards his MBA at Seton Hall University, “Steven’s War” took about a year to write. Last December, he was approached by Eric Koester, a Georgetown Professor, entrepreneur, and founder of the Creator Institute, which helps members write a book. “First of all, you gain access to this wonderful team of content developers, layout teams, and a copy-editing team with a hybrid publisher,” Russo says, “and you’re given a great community of individuals to help you write this book.” Russo then started researching in January of last year, outlined his book, and adds, “The sur-

ally about him, finding who he is, but also about him realizing that he’s not as alone as he thinks he is.”

“Steven’s War” is Russo’s first novel, but he’s also done other types of writing. Currently a Literary Development intern for Zero Gravity Management, he has also written a few screenplays, and has written for CNBC and Yahoo Finance. “I definitely know how to put a story together,” he says, “especially for the public eye.” He also cites knowing the type of story you’d like to write and creating string characters is crucial. “I think especially

vival is definitely the most challenging part.

I went through about four different versions of that (his book).”

“It’s much greater than just me, and that was just a really humbling, enriching, and satisfying experience.”

“Steven’s War” deals with 2009 and the “Don’t ask, don’t tell” period of the military.

Without giving too much away, Russo says, “The story is really about a young man trying to figure it out and trying to embrace his individuality, while conforming to the expectations of society. Being the true American patriot, being a man, especially being the man in the low-income area, the story is re-

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writing all the screenplays that I’ve written, it’s enabled me to get a strong understanding just how to break down a story and characters. Even reading for Zero Gravity; I read a lot of scripts for them, seeing what I like and don’t like in a screenplay or in a story in general.”

Russo, who also plays the piano, is at work on another screenplay.

“Steven’s War” can be purchased online through both Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Also, visit www.donovanrusso.com for more information.

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A Valentine’s Day Story

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By Richard Mabey Jr. ach of us has within us the power and the ability to uplift another person or to bring someone down. On many levels, from the subconscious decisions we make to the conscious decisions, we enact deeds, speak words, and invoke energies that can bring joy to a person’s heart or bring a sense of shame and hurt. The choice is clearly our own.

On Valentine’s Day of 1966, at the age of 12 and in the seventh grade, a dear and wonderful friend made a conscious decision to become a source of upliftment and joy to my life. So much so, that 55 years later, I am writing about that precious moment in time.

It was around the dawn of the second week in February of 1966, that I was admitted to the Barnert Hospital for the second time within two months, in my battle with a severe case of Rheumatic Fever. I am sure that the administrators at the Barnert Hospital meant well, but it was a very scary experience for me.

Back in 1966, they had something called the Children’s Ward. The room was about half the size of an average high school gymnasium. It is safe to say there were about 50 bedridden children in various stages of healing, lying in their beds, in this big room.

There were no walls between the beds.

When a child was examined by a nurse or doctor, temporary dividers on wheels were sometimes used to give the child patient some degree of privacy. Visiting hours were strictly adhered to. They were from ten to twelve in the morning, from two to four in the afternoon, and then from six to eight in the evening.

I remember being lonely and missing my pals from school. I missed going to the scout hikes and campouts. I missed going to youth fellowship at my church. And, ironically enough, I missed going to school. For myself, it was a time of reflection, a time of healing, a time of regaining strength.

I remember this, oh so well. On the Monday afternoon of February fourteenth, Mom came to visit with me, with her sister Bertha.

My sister Patti had made a handmade card and had bought a little box of candies filled inside a red box that was shaped like a heart.

Mom brought me three or four comic books.

And, Aunt Bert gave me a Mad magazine.

And, intermingled between the comic books that Mom gave me, was a card that had been mailed to me at home.

I remember looking at the envelope of this very special card. The envelope was hand-written, with a return address from Pamela Rawlings. A certain joy filled my heart continued on page 12

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Valentine’s Day...

continued from page 11 when I saw Pamela’s artistic, loopy handwriting. The dots on the i’s and j’s were exaggerated, open circles. It was Pamela’s unique handwriting style.

I was kind of shy to open the card with Mom and Aunt Bert by my bedside. I think that my mother sensed my awkward feelings and encouraged me to open Pamela’s card.

Aunt Bert also encouraged me to open the card. And, so I did.

It was one of those old-fashioned cards, with flowers on the front of it. But the flowers were cut out, so that the card was not squared off in the upper right-hand corner.

I don’t know if they make greeting cards like that any more.

On the left-hand side of the inside of Pamela’s card was a little note of what was happening in school. For some reason, I still remember that Pamela wrote me that she had won second place in the spelling bee in her class. Why is it that certain things stay in our minds with indelible ink?

Pamela had signed her card, “Luv, Your Friend, Pamela.” Misspelling the word love was the trend of middle school children back in the mid 1960’s. I simply closed the card and opened my beloved sister’s box of Valentine’s candy. I offered a chocolate candy to Mom and Aunt Bert. It was kind of a sacred moment in time.

Today, my friend Pamela lives in Virginia.

From time to time, we email each other. The friendships that hail back to first grade are most special and sacred entities. They seem to have a spiritual foundation to them.

That moment of joy that Pamela Rawlings brought to my heart, mind, and soul was priceless. It brought a sense of hope, to a very lonely 12-year-old boy, that someone from his class cared enough to mail out a card.

When I went away to college, after having attended a local community college for two years, I brought Pamela’s Valentine’s Day card with me. In my struggle with learning college-level chemistry, I would often take a few moments to hold and look at Pamela’s card. It never failed to bring a sense of joy and splendor to my heart. It always gave me the fortitude to carry on with my painful studies.

To bring joy to another person’s heart or to bring hurt and anguish. That is the choice we face, nearly each and every day of our lives. Please know, none of us will ever know the far-reaching effect that one single act of kindness will have upon another person’s life.

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

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The Muddy Time

S

By Elle Rave ome of us call it the muddy time. It’s the time in between the decision to divorce and when the actual divorce is made final. Whether a couple is living together or apart, this is an extremely stressful time and is full of uncertainty. Emotions are running high and the fear is so thick it gets stuck in your throat. How will there be enough money for two households? Will I have to move the children out of their childhood home? How much of the 401k do I get? Was he/she cheating?

Strategy – How much time do couples spend here? Unfortunately, the answer is it varies. The obvious goal is to spend the least amount of time here as possible. But it is a necessary period of adjustment. If you go too quickly, you may make decisions with haste and regret them. If it drags on, tension can grow, especially if one party begins to get frustrated with the pace and wants to “get on with their life.”

Trial Run – The muddy time is a good time to “try before you buy”. Start doing some research on new housing options or order a home appraisal. Take time to crunch the numbers, and then crunch them again. It takes time to review budgets and find necessary financial documents.

If you and your spouse are separated, this is a good time to work out different parenting schedules. There is no harm in following one schedule this month and trying a different one next month. What a great opportunity to see how the kids adjust and to see what works in real life as opposed to on paper.

Finances – Another big issue couples get stuck in the mud about is the finances. Financial transparency is critical during this time. When the budget must suddenly stretch across two households, things can get very messy (muddy). Communication is essential especially when spouses are living apart. The legal statute that oversees this financial time calls for status quo; in other words, normal family expenses still need to be maintained. Weekly meetings to discuss upcoming expenses can be immensely helpful, as is a team approach to tightening the belt.

Goof Faith – What does it mean and how can it help get you unstuck? Just because you have decided you want a divorce, doesn’t mean it happens with a snap of your fingers. Working together to get there is something mediation can help with and creating good faith between you and your spouse helps the process along. Good faith means you do what you say you are going to do. It means treating the other person with respect even though they drive you up a wall. Embrace an attitude of supporting each other so that you both end up ok after divorce. It also means having enough restraint not to aggravate the situation. Flaunting a new lover or purchasing a mid-lifecrisis-mobile are examples of what not to do during this time!

The Muddy Time is a time of frustration, difficult emotions, fear, and anxiety; and it can feel like it’s lasting a lifetime when you’re in it. Keep a calm head and remember that this is a temporary phase. Remember to aim for the status quo, muster as much restraint and temperance as

you can, and try to work together. Think of it this way: in the office, we work with people we don’t get along with all the time. And we can work with our soon-to-be-ex as well. The finish line is up ahead…just do the next right thing and remember to breathe!

Elle Rave is a family and divorce mediator with Rave and Roulhac Mediation in Mount Olive, NJ. www.raveroulhacmediation.com, ellerave3@gmail.com.

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amily caregivers of people with illnesses, injuries or disabilities sometimes spend more time thinking about those they care for than themselves. It’s important to remember that self-care is essential to providing good care to others and must include eating well.

Healthy eating can be especially challenging for caregivers who often have limited time to shop and cook. Fast food, snacks and comfort meals are tempting but usually lack healthy amounts of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

In addition to preventing low energy, muscle loss, illnesses and unplanned weight change, a healthy diet may help reduce the stress and fatigue that can come with caring for a loved one.

These tips from the Administration for Community Living can help caregivers take steps toward better nutrition without adding to already full to-do lists: Drink healthy beverages at each meal and 2-3 times between meals. Water, milk, juice (to replace missing fruits and vegetables) or non-sweetened drinks are all better-for-you options.

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W

Mount Olive High School Senior Parents Hosting GoFundMe to Benefit the Senior Class of 2021

hat a school year this has been thus far. As juniors, they left school in March of 2020 with books and computers in hand. Who would have ever imagined that eleven months later, their school year started and despite the hard work of the district to open, countless seniors have not stepped foot back in their school, and many of them never will again.

There have been no: - First day walking into school a senior - Sitting and chatting with friends over lunch or in study hall - Pep rallies - Dances - Social events - Friday night lights or sporting events with student sections - Driving to school and parking in the lot - Senior pranks - Photos of the class in action to include in their last yearbook and the list goes on...

With so much not happening for the Class of 2021 Seniors, a small committed group of senior parents is organizing a GoFundMe to help raise funds to give to each graduating student a gift to remember their year that wasn’t.

“We recognize that many of our senior families have been financially impacted by the pandemic and will not have the means to purchase Class of 2021 merchandise for their senior.” states Adele Perkins, co-founder and parent committee class of 2021 fundraiser coordinator. “As parents, we see the disruption in what the normal senior day should be, the impact on them emotionally losing those last year connections, and it breaks our hearts.” she continues. “These kids have had their traditional last year memories impacted far beyond what we would have ever imagined. I am sure we can all reflect on our senior year and the lasting memories we have celebrated that last year in high school, their story has been written quite differently.”

“This year’s senior class deserves to be uniquely acknowledged for their contributions and hard work.” states one parent committee member. “Mount Olive School District continues to elevate its status as one of the best in New Jersey. The MOHS Senior Class of 2021 has been a very large part of that success from kindergarten through today. Our seniors have embodied the motto ‘Marauders for Life’. Despite every new challenge this past year has thrown their way, they remain committed to learning and achieving at a very high level. We hope to give our seniors appropriate recognition and look to our community to help us achieve that goal.” they continued, “As

the months have gone by, so have those opportunities for cherished milestones that only come as a high school senior.”

A parents committee was formed to address the obvious gap the pandemic has created and help bring ideas to celebrate the kids throughout this very unusual year.

“On the 21st of each month, we circulate an idea through our MOHS Class of 2021 Facebook group that parents can choose to do to celebrate their senior.” says Deborah Anderson, a committee co-founder. “It is not going to replace what they have lost but, it brings a smile to their face which is what matters. We wish we could do more for every child knowing this is voluntary and it’s up to parents to fulfill but, with no funding from the school or district, it’s all we can do.” The senior parent committee has made suggestions to school administrators to celebrate their seniors and alter events traditionally held by the school with efforts to present COVID appropriate options. Most of their ideas are based on other New Jersey towns hosting similar fun events for their high school’s seniors. So far, the ideas have not been given the green light. However, the year is not yet over and they remain hopeful.

Another parent member tells us “Having had a 2020 graduate, I have already experienced the sadness with my child that they would not have those final memories. We continued on page 20

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Benefit the Senior Class of 2021... continued from page 16 are thankful that we were able to have a prom, although quite different than we envisioned, and a graduation that was also modified however, the class had most of their year unimpacted.” they add. “My 2021 senior has not had the same experience that their sibling had thus far, and we anticipate this becoming the norm for all of their senior year. That is what hurts the most.”

Here is where you can help. Our goal is to GIFT EVERY GRADUATING STUDENT with a keepsake basket filled with goodies and mementos to close out their time at Mount Olive High School. We want to remind them that although so many school memories were not able to be made this year, the community that they live, work, and play in recognizes this and is there for them! “Our bar is set high at raising $33,000.00 but, we hope that with support from our community, our friends, and our family that we can achieve this target.”

Says Tina Crance, a senior parent committee member. “What we raise will be used to purchase what we can however, with over 400 graduating students our goal is admirable, and we will keep our fingers crossed that we can achieve this figure. All

these seniors deserve a little something and that is what we intend to do” she continues. “These seniors work and support their community and we hope that their community supports them.”

Here is how you can help. Please log into our GoFundMe to participate with your donation. The link is: https://gofund. me/fb6f2ca6 or you can find it by searching for “MOHS Class of ‘21 “Senior Gift ” Fundraiser” and make your donation today. Share this link far and wide to continue to help us reach our goal of $33.000.00.

As a thank you to our donors, a keepsake booklet will be created showcasing the names of individuals and businesses that supported our seniors. Please add your name or company to our list!

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Adele Perkins at adele. perkins@eledaevents.com .**This parent committee is not affiliated with the Mount Olive High School, MOHS PTA, or any other affiliated group associated with the town, district, or school. This committee independent and is made up of individual parents of seniors graduating in 2021 who wish to make it a great year.

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Hackettstown Stigma Free

T

he Covid-19 Pandemic has adversely impacted the personal, professional, academic and daily lives of people across the globe.

Additionally, the necessary restrictions of the pandemic have continued longer than most of us could have imagined. In turn, we have had to endure significant changes, limitations and stressors which were unforeseen by most.

Consequently, we have all had to engage in various degrees of quarantine in order to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 Virus. I have experienced an increase in couples seeking therapy in my practice who have encountered particularly difficult challenges.

Couples who are married or cohabitate have been forced to drastically expand the time in which they spend together with few outlets of activities outside of their homes. The considerable increase in “togetherness” dramatically reduces the amount of time and personal space available to each family member. Hence, the expanded time together may intensify existing relational problems, especially among couples. Moreover, the pandemic has imposed collateral worries, such as job loss, on the adults of the households. In fact, more than 1.6 million people in New Jersey have filed for unemployment benefits since the beginning of the pandemic. That is approximately 18% of New Jersey’s total population. Nonetheless, couples are also experiencing financial insecurity, food insecurity, loss of health insurance, concerns for loved ones who have contracted Covid-19, mourning the loss of loved ones who died from Covid-19, increased acute depression and anxiety as well as problematic substance use. According to nj.com, adults over the age of 30 in New Jersey are experiencing significantly elevated alcohol use when compared to last year. Also, binge drinking among women in New Jersey has increased by 41% during the past year. Furthermore, winsightgrocerybusiness.com reports in-person alcohol sales have increased by 41% and online alcohol sales have increased by 339% across the country since the start of the pandemic.

Couples who have children must manage additional conflicts and tension. Parents need to navigate the rocky terrain which has been created by their children’s anxiety and depression due to social isolation, home-confinement, boredom and difficulty adjusting to the new

demands of virtual learning. Subsequently, many parents are struggling to balance homeschooling children while working either at home or in the office. As if all of that was not enough, parents need to work together to maintain a level of normalcy for their families while maintaining their households and nurturing the relationships with their partners.

Unfortunately, the nurturing of partner relationships may be neglected by some during the pandemic. Often the results are breakdowns in communication which frequently lead to emotional tension, conflict, criticism, defensiveness, resentment and stonewalling (the silent treatment). Some tips to improve your relationship with your partner are: 1) Remember you are on the same team. It is unlikely that your partner is intentionally going out of his/her way to upset you. 2) Work on increasing and improving communication with your partner.

Check-in with each other and offer each other help whenever possible.

Validate your partner’s feelings (I can see that your upset). Use “I” statements rather than “you” statements when confronting one another (I feel___ when you ___...). Starting a sentence with “you” is almost always criticism and will usually put your partner on the defense. Instead, you will be able to own and clearly state your feelings without criticizing or blaming by beginning a sentence with “I”. 3) give each other space or call a “timeout” when emotions are high until each party can maintain a calmer and more logical demeanor. 4) Maintain appropriate and consistent boundaries with your partner. Should something upset you, calmly address the situation by expressing your feelings with “I” statements. If you permit behavior that is unacceptable to you, you are promoting more of it to occur which will eventually lead to feelings of resentment towards your partner.

Michael Calderon, LCSW, LCADC President of the Hackettstown Stigma-Free Taskforce If you believe that you may benefit from psychotherapeutic services, please contact our practice at: A Center for Counseling & Psychotherapy Services, LLC, 26 Route 46, Hackettstown, NJ 07840, 908-852-9000, www.acenterforcounseling.net.

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The Morris Canal, the First “Superhighway” in New Jersey

T

By Henry M. Holden he year was 1821, and our country had twenty-four states, and perhaps its first environmental crisis. The Morris Canal was built primarily to move Pennsylvania coal to New Jersey, New York and other industrial cities that had nearly depleted their environments of wood.

The twenty-four states were also separated from each other because of poor roads which left much to be desired for hauling heavy products. Hauling by wagon was expensive and slow. Continued growth and prosperity required a more sustainable means of transporting goods. Commercial businesses moved at a mule-drawn pace in wagons over inferior roads.

Before the advent of freight railroads, New Jersey’s canal system provided the only necessary means of industrial transportation in the state.

The idea for constructing a canal is credited to Morristown businessman George P. MacCulloch, who reportedly conceived the idea while visiting Lake Hopatcong.

On December 31, 1824, the New Jersey Legislature chartered the Morris Canal and Banking Company. The company issued 20,000 shares of stock at $100 a share, providing $2 million of capital for building the

canal.

The Morris Canal was 102-miles long and about 65 feet wide, and cut through six counties. “It was known as the “Mountain Climbing Canal,” said Martha Capwell-Fox, Historian and Archives for National Canal Museum. “It overcame an elevation change of 1,674 feet over the entire northern part of New Jersey using innovative inclined planes.”

The Canal ran from Phillipsburg to Jersey City. Its original power source was two mules, and travel time was five days, one way. The Canal was the “superhighway” of the early 1800’s.

On May 20, 1832, the canal officially opened. The first boat passing through the canal was the Walk-on-Water, followed by two coal-laden boats going from Phillipsburg to Newark. The canal was extended eastward to Jersey City 1836.

Not counting the Jersey City portion, the canal ran 98.62 miles and cost $2,104,413 (equivalent to $53,894,017 in 2019).

The canal boats carried coal, and iron ore. But the boats carried anything that had a market, sugar, ice and much more. Although it is said that the Morris Canal was mainly a freight canal, some boats offered passengers “Cool summer rides accompa-

Plane 9 East descended into the village of Montville and have two bridges cross over it both for Main Street (today Route 202) (Credit Canal Society NJ)

nied by a shipment of ice.”

The canal originally was built for boats of ten gross tons, but the canal was gradually widened, and larger boats could carry 70 tons.

Beginning in the 1840’s large amounts of New Jersey iron ore were shipped West on the Morris Canal to the anthracite iron furnaces of the Lehigh Valley. The canal allowed tons of coal to make the journey

from Philipsburg, near the coalfields, to Newark,0r Jersey City in five days, an unheard-of accomplishment.

The Morris Canal encouraged little hamlets such as (Roxbury, Kenvil, Ledgewood and others), to grow along its route to service the crews and teams of mules that pulled the boats, particularly where there was an inclined plane which pulled the continued on page 23

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The Morris Canal...

continued from page 22 boats up the hills.

Partly because of the Civil War, the Morris Canal remained in heavy use through the 1860s. But railroads had begun to replace canal travel. In 1866, the canal’s peak year, boats hauled 889, 220 tons, and netted $616,350 profit. From 1867 onward net profits and tonnage continually slid downward unto it reached bottom in 1902 with a net of $52,076 on 27,392 tons.

With its two navigable feeders, the ascent eastward from Phillipsburg to its feeder from Lake Hopatcong was 760 ft, and

the descent from there to tidewater was 914 feet. Surmounting the height difference was considered a major engineering feat of its day, accomplished using 23 locks and 23 inclined planes — essentially, short railways that carried canal boats in open cars uphill and downhill using water-powered winches. Inclined planes required less time and water than locks, although they were more expensive to build and maintain.

Today, the Morris Canal Greenway, (the old towpath) is a partnership between local communities and the Canal Society of New Jersey, is repurposing the canal’s right-of-

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A boat leaves the cradle at Plane 6 East in Rockway. It was the first inclined plane constructed on the Morris Canal. The towpath can be seen on the left. (Credit Canal Society NJ)

way as a public greenway, creating new opportunities for recreation, tourism, education and economic growth. It also seeks to preserve the surviving historic remains of the canal and interpret canal sites.

“The Morris Canal Greenway is a work in progress and some locations are not yet ready for visitors,” said Joe Macasek, president Canal Society of New Jersey. “But in the meantime, there are a few destinations

we know you will enjoy. Boonton, Ledgewood and Wharton are drive-to destinations that are easy to find and have lots of great things to see.”

The canal was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 1, 1974, for its significance in engineering, industry, and transportation.

For more information visit: canalsocietynj.org

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Page 26 • February 2021 • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Mount Olive Police Department Initiates New Chaplain Program

T

By Steve Sears he Mount Olive Police Department has initiated a Police Chaplain Program to begin 2021.

Pastor Matt Jones of Mountaintop Church and Rabbi Daniel Zucker of Temple Hatikvah are the initial members.

“I thank God we’ve had a working relationship now for a number of years with them,” Jones says. “I’m grateful. I’m in my 19th year now, and we’ve worked together with the township and with the school system.”

Mount Olive Police Department Chief of Police Steve Beecher and Jones worked for a time on a Mental Health Commission together, so the relationship has been built over a good period. Beecher adds, “The Police Chaplain Program is established to provide support to both police officers and civilians. They are there to provide assistance, advice, comfort and counsel to those in need who request support.”

“Pastor Jones and I have talked about it extensively; we both agree with the whole idea,” Zucker says of the new program.

Jones and Zucker in October attended training classes for the chaplaincy. “What I’m very grateful for,” Jones says, “is we’re all friends. We’re very excited to do this.

The goal of this is to provide emotional and spiritual support for our police, as well as for people who are going through tragedy and trial; to be there also for them. To listen, to comfort people. I think the biggest thing is that we become a very big ear.”

Zucker, who grew up in California, has been a Rabbi for 43 years. He has served congregations in his home state, Long Island, and Pennsylvania, and served as a chaplain for several years at the Lester Senior Living Community in Whippany. He has been in with Temple Hatikvah in Flanders for the last three and a half years. “It’s really kind of a two-pronged or two aspect concern on the part of Chief Beecher, which I know that certainly Matt and I agree with him on,” Zucker

says. “One was the normal idea behind the whole program which has been in place for some time, and the idea is that police work is a very high stress job.” He adds that, with all the significant challenges of the job, officers need another outlet to express their concerns. “A friendly ear to listen,” he says, “to be available to consult for advice if they so desire.” Zucker also recognizes that the police department has the unpleasant job of contacting families when there’s been a fatality. “Part of the idea of the chaplaincy program is to try to help relieve the officers who otherwise would have to stay for some time, that there can be somebody else that meets with a family and spend time with them until they get other family members or arrangements. All those types of things that allow the officer to return to his normal activities.”

The second prong is something Zucker feels Beecher and his lieutenants have been paying careful attention to: the mood in this country with what’s been going on the last few years, particularly in 2020. “Forgetting the question of COVID,” he says, “which only added to the pressure. There really needs to be a little bit more support, and a wider net of those indicating that the police are good people. Tapping into the clergy, hopefully we will have some influence on our congregations and the wider public.”

Prior to his training, Jones had witnessed up close a chaplain at work. His dad was a chaplain most of his pastoral career for the Suffern, New York Fire Department, and Jones many times went with him and saw firsthand what he did. “So many times, these - especially your frontline people - don’t really have anyone to talk to. They’ll go through a domestic dispute, or they’ll go through a horrible tragedy, they finish that, and they go right back on the job again. You know, there’s no debrief, and many times they just hold this stuff inside. So, hopefully, we can be those people to help them with these issues.”

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • February 2021 • Page 27

How Healthy is Your Heart: February is American Heart Month

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Written By, Chris Bauer M.D. as the pandemic left you with some bad habits and some added pounds?

Does your New Year’s resolution involve a treadmill or an added focus on your health? Chances are you have already realized the importance having a healthy heart and its supportive health habits. Cardiovascular Disease is a term that describes any disease to the heart, its supporting vessels or peripheral veins in the body. The National Institute of Health reports that about 11% of Americans have been diagnosed with heart disease and that about 650,000

people die of heart diseases every year.

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute have named February American Heart Month.

Coronary heart disease is any condition that can block the heart’s vessels and cause heart failure, stroke and peripheral artery disease. Heart disease is a general term that encompasses the previously stated conditions. Coronary heart disease happens when cholesterol, calcium, fat and protein (also known as atherosclerosis plaques) deposit in your arteries blocking blood flow in your heart. Atherosclerotic plaque buildup

Have You Thought Of Going Back To Church Lately?

begins in childhood and worsens as we get older. If these plaques accumulate then in time, they may cause a person to have a heart attack.

Below are ways to prevent heart disease: Increase Physical Activity: Weight reduction, improvement of cholesterol levels, lowering of blood pressure and reduction in risk of developing diabetes are all benefits of regular exercise. Avoiding extended periods of inactivity is strongly encouraged.

If you are binge watching your favorite television shows at home, try to walk-in place or do sit ups during commercials. The ways in which we become physically more active do not need to be elaborate. A gym membership is not necessarily required. Walking around the block and using the stairs at work instead of the elevators are excellent ways to get added physical activity. The recommendation is for all American adults to participate in 30 mins of moderate exercise (like walking) at least 5 times weekly. If 30 mins of uninterrupted exercise cannot be done at one time, then the sessions can be split up in smaller sessions of at least 10mins throughout the week.

Controlling Diet /Weight Management: Obesity is a major issue in New Jersey, as it affects 1 in 3 Americans. Increased fast food consumption along with higher con-

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sumption of processed foods are dietary trends that have contributed to many people including children becoming obese. A reduction in daily sodium is strongly encouraged. Reading the labels on food packaging is an important way to know how much salt we are consuming. Canned soup, frozen dinners and pizza are popular foods that are considered to have the highest levels of salt. Less than 2400mg of sodium is recommended per day. Increased amounts of poultry, fish and low-fat dairy products should be the cornerstones of a healthy diet.

Managing your Diabetes and other Medical Conditions: Optimizing your glucose levels in those with diabetes has been shown to lower your risk of developing heart disease as well. Cholesterol management is also extremely important in lowering the risks of developing a heart attack or stroke.

Elimination of Smoking and Reduction of Alcohol in Lifestyle: Smoking cessation is one of the most preventable ways to lower your risk of heart disease. If quitting smoking cold turkey is not something you can do, many excellent medications and separate therapies exist to assist people in quitting.

Decreased alcohol use is a mainstay in the maintenance of a heart healthy lifestyle.

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Page 28 • February 2021 • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

RE/MAX Heritage Properties Welcomes New Agent Perry Lesko

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E/MAX Heritage Properties continues its growth with the addition of Perry Lesko to its team of agents.

Lesko is new to the real estate profession and will work with buyers and sellers throughout Morris, Warren, Hunterdon, Sussex and Somerset counties.

“I’m excited to join RE/MAX and look forward to starting this new chapter helping people with one of the most important transactions in their lives of buying and selling real estate,” said Lesko.

Prior to joining RE/MAX Heritage Properties, Lesko owned a flooring business for more than 30 years. He also volunteers in the local park system by maintaining trails and access for the community to enjoy.

Lesko may be reached at the Flanders office of RE/MAX Heritage Properties at 973-598-1700, by cell at 973-479-0799, or via email at plesPerry Lesko ko19@yahoo.com.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • February 2021 • Page 29

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Page 30 • February 2021 • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

6 Tips for Adding More Seafood to Your Family’s Menu

Established 1991 Morris County’s Top Restaurant

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eafood can make for a healthy addition to diets, particularly for children.

It improves body and brain function, and studies conducted by “Pediatrics” and the “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” have linked seafood to reduced risks of heart disease and allergic conditions like asthma.

In fact, the United States Department of Agriculture suggests making seafood part of healthy diets and its 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend putting it on menus at least twice a week.

While there are common complaints, such as “my kids won’t like it” or “I don’t know how to prepare it,” these tips can help make it quick, easy and affordable to add nutritious seafood to your family’s menu.

Start with shrimp. Shrimp is one of the most popular types of seafood in the United States. Try shrimp warm or cold as a snack, appetizer or main course. It’s versatile and can be sauteed, broiled, boiled, grilled or baked.

Make it fun. Consider putting healthy fish like wild cod, salmon or pollock into fun foods like tacos or burgers.

Buy frozen. Fish is now flash frozen at sea to lock in freshness. Frozen seafood meals add convenience and help cut down on waste because what you don’t use can go back in the freezer.

Cook with your kids. If your kids don’t think they like seafood, have them help with dinner. Cooking with kids can help develop healthier long-term habits and a more adventurous palate. It also helps improve motor functions and confidence.

In fact, a study published in “Pediatrics” shows getting children involved in meal preparation may increase their enjoyment of healthy foods.

Pick the right products. To create a

family-friendly menu, consider an option like Aqua Star’s Cutting Board meal kits, a selection of 10 recipes that include everything a family needs to prepare a tasty, healthy meal. Selections include tacos, flatbreads and comfort favorites. With pre-portioned ingredients for quick preparation and cleanup, they make it easy for parents and kids to create their own restaurant-quality meals.

Eat at home. Eating out often can drive unhealthy eating habits and strain family budgets. Seafood is easy and convenient to make, whether you use a simple recipe like these Chipotle Shrimp Street Tacos or choose a convenient meal kit, and can help you spend more time together at the dinner table.

Find more tips and recipes to add seafood to your family’s table at aquastar. com.

Chipotle Shrimp Street Tacos Total time: 20 minutes Servings: 2 1 Aqua Star Chipotle Shrimp Street Tacos Meal Kit, including: creamy ancho chili sauce, Aqua Star shrimp, chipotle seasoning, spinach, corn , roasted tomato white corn tortillas 2 teaspoons cooking oil, divided Submerge unopened sauce packet in bowl of water to thaw.

In large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon oil; add shrimp and cook 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fluid and add chipotle seasoning.

In medium skillet, heat remaining oil; add spinach, corn and roasted tomato.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • February 2021 • Page 31

Show Your Heart Some Love

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hile heart disease is a leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, many of the risk factors associated with the condition can be controlled with dietary and lifestyle changes.

By centering your meals around better-for-you ingredients and recipes, you can show your heart some extra love.

Consider walnuts, which are a heart-healthy food certified by the American Heart Association. More than 25 years of research shows walnuts may play a key role in heart health. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved one of the first qualified health claims for a whole food, finding that eating 1 1/2 ounces of walnuts per day as part of a low-saturated fat and low-cholesterol diet while not increasing caloric intake may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

Additionally, walnuts are the only nut significantly high in omega-3s, with 2 1/2 grams of alpha-linolenic acid per ounce. Walnuts can add this essential nutrient to dishes like these American Heart Association Heart-Check Mark certified recipes for Greek Cucumber Walnut Bites and Banana Bread Overnight Oats.

Find more information and heart-healthy recipes at walnuts.org/heart-health.

Greek Cucumber Walnut Bites Recipe courtesy of Beth Stark, RDN, LDN on behalf of the California Walnut Board Prep time: 25 minutes

Servings: 6 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped 1 English cucumber, ends trimmed (about 14 ounces) 1/2 cup roasted red pepper hummus 1/2 cup reduced-fat crumbled feta cheese 5 cherry tomatoes, quartered Heat oven to 350 F. On small baking sheet, arrange walnuts evenly. Bake 8 minutes, checking frequently, until toasted.

Slice cucumber crosswise into 3/4-inch thick slices. Using small spoon, gently scoop out and discard center of each cucumber slice, leaving bottom and sides intact.

In small bowl, stir 6 tablespoons chopped walnuts and hummus. Spoon walnut-hummus mixture into each cucumber slice and top with reserved chopped walnuts, feta cheese and quartered tomatoes.

3/4 cup chopped California walnuts, divided 1 tablespoon maple syrup 3 cups skim milk In large container with lid, add sliced bananas. Use potato masher or fork to mash bananas until smooth.

Add oats, cinnamon, salt, vanilla, half the chopped walnuts, maple syrup and milk. Combine thoroughly and refrigerate overnight.

To serve, divide among four canning jars or glass containers with lids. Top each with remaining walnuts before serving. (Family Features)

Banana Bread Overnight Oats Recipe courtesy of Crowded Kitchen on behalf of the California Walnut Board Prep time: 15 minutes • Servings: 4 3 ripe bananas, sliced 2 cups old-fashioned oats 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla

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Page 32 • February 2021 • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

grapefruit juice, olive oil and, finally, cilantro.

Stir well with a large spoon until everything is combined.

Once the chicken is baked, cut it and assemble. The final result is a juicy chicken breast with a sweet yet crisp salsa topping.

The flavors in this dish harmonize together to bring you a bite you have likely never experienced before.

This meal is also nutritious with fresh fruit and lean chicken, so it’s a meal almost anyone can enjoy, even if you’re on a healthy eating kick.

Find more recipes and family dinner ideas at Culinary.net.

Cuban Chicken with Salsa Fresca Servings: 5 1 cup grapefruit juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons garlic powder 2 teaspoons cumin 2 teaspoons paprika 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

f your family ever gets stuck in a dinner routine rut, it can feel like you’re eating the same recipes over and over again.

However, this fresh and unique recipe for Cuban Chicken with Salsa Fresca might inspire you to think outside the culinary box and give your family members the satisfactory flavor they desire at dinnertime. With fresh ingredients and a wholesome flavor, this meal is perfect to add to your dinner menu rotation.

The chicken is full of flavor and baked using multiple seasonings to create a Cuban-like taste. The salsa fresca, which is added on top of the chicken, is a tad sweet with grapefruit segments and juice, but also satisfying with jicama, onion, cilantro and jalapeno. It adds so much color to your plate, and all these flavors mash together for something unique and special.

To start, create the marinade for your chicken and let it rest to allow all those wonderful spices to do their jobs. Set it in the fridge for 30 minutes or more.

Next, it’s time to make the salsa fresca.

Start by chopping red onion and jicama then add grapefruit and jalapeno to the mix. Add

Salsa Fresca:

1 cup grapefruit segments 1/2 jicama, cubed 1/2 red onion, chopped 3/4 cup grapefruit juice 4 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped Heat oven to 400 F. In large bowl, mix grapefruit juice, oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika and red pepper until combined. Add chicken to bowl and

turn to coat. Refrigerate 30 minutes or longer.

To make salsa fresca: In medium bowl, mix grapefruit segments, jicama, red onion, grapefruit juice, olive oil, cilantro and jalapeno pepper until combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Remove chicken from marinade. Place chicken in baking dish. Bake 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Serve chicken with salsa fresca.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • February 2021 • Page 33

M

Add Mushrooms to Your Snacking Menu

ix up your snacking habits with a more nutritious option to serve ahead of a meal or on its own.

These Roasted Portobello Mushrooms with Beets and Goat Cheese are ready in just half an hour with only eight ingredients, allowing you to dish up a flavorful bite without going overboard in the kitchen. Find more recipes at senecafoods.com.

Roasted Portobello Mushrooms with Beets and Goat Cheese 1 jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Whole Pickled Beets 4 large portobello mushrooms (about 1 pound) 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup fresh bread crumbs, such as sourdough or whole wheat. (See note below) 1/4 cup sliced green onions or chopped

chives 1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts, toasted 1/2 cup (2 ounces) crumbled goat cheese Heat oven to 400°F. Drain beets. Coarsely chop 1/2 cup beets.

Trim stems flat and remove gills from mushroom caps using a spoon. Place caps, rounded side down, on foil-lined baking sheet; season with salt and pepper.

In medium bowl, combine chopped beets, bread crumbs, green onions and walnuts. Spoon mixture into caps and top with goat cheese.

Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until heated through and mushrooms are tender.

Note: Using a food processor, pulse a few pieces of sour dough or wheat bread several times until finely crumbled.

Mount Olive’s Hometown Brewery

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Page 34 • February 2021 • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

R

Rutherfurd Hall Makes Silver Screen Debut

utherfurd Hall provides educational and enrichment opportunities for the residents and businesses of Allamuchy and the surrounding communities. The majestic mansion also provides a breathtaking backdrop for cultural events and festivals, weddings and numerous special events.

We typically host over 200 events a year including business meetings, tours, classes for all ages, lectures, and camps, as well as many other types of concerts and entertainment. With the current pandemic, we have only been able to provide a small portion of our public events.

However, the beauty of Rutherfurd Hall can be appreciated through the camera. Did you know an episode of Ap-

H

ple TV’s Little America featuring Zachary Quinto and Melanie Laurent was filmed in Rutherfurd Hall? In the past year, we have been the site of professional photo shoots as well as four music videos for upcoming artists. One of our goals is to promote Rutherfurd Hall as a scenic location to shoot movies, videos and still photography. We look forward to welcoming more artists and personalities to the mansion.

Stay tuned and watch for the amazing things happening at Rutherfurd Hall. You never know what you will see!

For more information, or to take a tour visit www.rutherfurdhall.org or call 908-852-1894 ext 334.

Hackettstown Medical Center Auxiliary Teleconference Meeting

ackettstown Medical Center Auxiliary is continuing to meet by Teleconferencing being they are unable to meet in person during this Pandemic. Anyone interested in joining the phone meetings to help continue keeping the Auxiliary active and to socially communicate

S

tocking up on store sales is a great way to get deals and save money. It’s also convenient to fill up the freezer and have meals at the ready, cutting down on the number of trips shoppers must take to the supermarket. When purchasing and storing meat, shoppers need to keep safety and taste in mind. According to FoodSafety.gov, frozen meat that is kept at a temperature of 0 F or lower

with other members are welcome to participate. Looking forward to resuming activities such as the annual Tricky Tray, bake sales, vendor sales, etc. Scholarships are also offered each year for those seeking education in the medical fields.

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will be safe to eat indefinitely. However, being safe to eat and being fit to eat are two different things. Meat can degrade over time due to freezer burn, which can affect flavor and texture. In general, the FDA offers these guidelines: • Whole chickens and turkeys — 1 year • Poultry pieces — 9 months • Raw steaks — 6 to 12 months

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The next Teleconference meeting is planned for Wednesday, February 17th from 1pm-3pm. If interested and for more information on future monthly meetings, call 908-850-6876 or email mpm0215m@gmail.com.

• Chops — 4 to 6 months • Roasts — 4 to 12 months • Pork chops and roasts — 4 to 12 months • Processed pork products — 1 to 2 months • Fish (lean) — 6 to 8 months • Fish (fatty) — 2 to 3 months • Ground meat — 3 to 4 months

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • February 2021 • Page 35

Page 36 • February 2021 • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

NJStarz Janice Huff Hometown: Denville, NJ

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By Steve Sears NBC Chief Meteorologist Janice Huff’s accomplishments and accolades, among those being inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2016 and being named in 2020 “Best Weatherperson in the World,” would fill the back and front sides of a page (a detailed bio can be found at www.nbcnewyork.com/author/ janice-huff).

Her achievements being what they are, there is especially this: the accuracy with which she delivers the weather to millions in the Metropolitan area every day, and the care she has for others, cast the most significant light on her person and career.

“I had no plans of being on television, no plans of being in New York necessarily – I mean, it’s a dream to be here, for everyone really,” Huff says. “No matter what you do, whether it’s broadcasting or any kind of career, everybody wants to come to New York. I had always thought it would be great to be able to come here, but I never really thought about it in the scheme of things.”

And when told she has been coined by this writer as the “Meteorologist who always smiles,” she laughs and says, “Oh, thank you. I try not to smile too much when there’s mayhem and destruction, but that’s rare. So, the rest of the time, yes, the weather is usually pretty good.”

Huff lives in the Shongum area of Denville with her husband and their dog, Porter. Ironically enough, the dog was featured on an NBC “New York Live” segment called, “Clear the Shelters,” and it reminded the couple of a dog they’d had that had passed away the year before. The lucky pooch now has a loving, new abode.

You may also see Huff occasionally in downtown Denville, she a big Denville Dairy fan. “Best banana splits ever,” she states.

Huff , who was born in New York City on September 1, 1960, feels she was born to love weather. It has fascinated her since she was a little girl. When she first moved to South Carolina, she lived for a period with her grandparents, and they and most of her family lived on farmland (“Trees and woods and creeks and animals,” Huff recalls). Her grandparents had in their backyard a swing-set that, every day after school, their granddaughter would enjoy while daydreaming, peering at the sky as she swung, looking specifically at the different shapes and sizes of the clouds, and she would ask herself, “How does that work? What does that cloud feel like? How does that form?” “And storms,” she adds. “Watching those clouds shift and move and morph into these ferociously, dark and dangerous skies and storms, I would wonder what made that.

How does the weather happen? My curiosity is what got me to seek out those things.”

When Huff was eight, her mother bought her a set of World Book Encyclopedias. As an only child, if she wasn’t with her friends, she was home reading books, many times her eyes in the encyclopedias. “I would pick a letter and go through it, start reading things,” she remembers. “And the one day I had the ‘M’ book was the day I discovered Meteorology.”

For young Janice, it clicked right away. However, as previously mentioned, she never really envisioned doing weather on television, but studying it from the science end of things. It’s why she chose to attend Florida State University. “They have one of the best Meteorology programs in the country,” she says.

Huff’s mom, a single mother, was her number one role model when she was growing up. “She was an independent woman, a leader and a strong person, and someone I looked up to very much,” Huff states. “She had lots of friends, she was strict, but fair. And she was my best friend. So, I couldn’t think of anybody more fitting to look up to as a role model and a mentor.”

Prior to FSU, Huff attended and graduated with honors from Eau Claire High School, where she was also a member of the National Honor Society and Secretary of the Student Council, a varsity cheerleader, and was named Miss Shamrock 1978. After graduating from Florida State University with a major in Meteorology, she in 1983 was a weekend meteorologist at WTVC, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and that same year was Columbus, Georgia’s WRBL Meteorologist and science reporter. “I just took it one job at a time and enjoyed being the best in what I do. That’s kind of how it is. Living in Columbus, Georgia – I was only in Chattanooga for six months; that was the first stop and first TV job I had – and even that six months was rewarding.” Along the way were stops at KSDK in St. Louis, Missouri, and KRON in San Francisco, California prior to returning to the Big Apple – and home – in 1995.

“It’s beyond a dream come true, really, in a lot of ways, being here,” Huff says regarding delivering the weather afternoons and evenings. “Because, as you mentioned, I have come full circle. I was born in New York City, have lived in many parts of the country, grew up in the southeast, and coming back here is like coming home. It’s kind of an out-of-body experience when I look at it that way because that was not really part of my ‘plan,’ I guess you could say. But with

plans, you usually don’t do them, because they don’t usually turn out as people expect that they will. But lots of times that’s in a great way, and it certainly was for me coming back here.”

As for the numbers of people she delivers the weather to daily, she never thinks about it. “I don’t even think about how many people are out there. The only time I ever think about it really is when someone comes up to me and says that they watch.” Oh yes, and that number includes a wellknown face and voice to many. “I met Sidney Poitier randomly at a restaurant – that was a few years back at the Sea Grill, which used to be downstairs at Rockefeller Center – and that was a random meet, and when someone like that says that they watch you, that’s when you realize where you are and what you’re doing and how many people are out there. Otherwise, I don’t even think about the number.

I just think about the job I have to do every day and that is to serve all those people, and bring them the best information, the most accurate forecast in any dire weather situation to get them out of harm’s way. That’s what I do, that’s what I’ve been doing ever since I started in weather in the National Weather Service when I was a student trainee before I went to college. It’s been since I was 17-years-old that I have worked in weather, and it’s been since I was 7-yearsold that I wanted a job in Meteorology.”

An advocate of adoption, Huff started in the late 1990s the New York Chapter of WNBC’s “Wednesday’s Child” segcontinued on page 37

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • February 2021 • Page 37

NJ Starz... continued from page 36 ment. “Wednesday’s Child’ I was a part of for a long time – almost 20 years.” The goal is to find homes and families for children in the foster care system. “We were the second site (the first was in Washington, D.C.), the second of what were ten sites across the country.” Of all the things she’s ever done in the business of television and broadcasting, “Wednesday’s Child” is probably her most important and rewarding. “Not just for me,” she says, “but for these families, because this changes lives. I mean, what I do with weather sometimes saves lives, in (that’s) terms of bad weather, severe weather, and trying to get people out of harms’ way. This (“Wednesday’s Child”) changes lives. I think that the over 300 children we’ve featured have found homes, found love and permanency. It made all the difference in their lives. I’m all about that, because I know how important family is, and how important structure is, and permanency, especially for these kids.”

Structure. Permanency. She has been that to her WNBC viewers as well. “I have been here 25 ½ years now, working on 26, and it’s still the best job I’ve ever had and the greatest place I’ve ever worked,” Huff says happily.

Janice Huff has advice for aspiring Meteorologists. “My advice is to go for it. Follow your dreams. Meteorology in particular is a science, and science is specific and uses lots of math and physics and all that stuff, but that shouldn’t be a hindrance. That shouldn’t be a wall. That shouldn’t be something that stops you. A lot of times I meet, and have met, young girls, starting out, interested in science, and they start taking math classes, and then they start to drop back, and they’re not as interested, or they think it’s

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too hard. It’s kind of sad because they decide to defer their dream or go in another direction because they think they can’t do it. But you can do it. I was one of those kids growing up where I was a very good student, but math was not my favorite subject.” Indeed, Huff loved science, but not the math part. “But when I studied Meteorology, I realized I had to do well in math. It wasn’t my favorite, so I had to

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She eventually did minor in mathematics and was able to fulfill her goals and dreams. “It takes hard work,” she says. “Anything you strive to do there’s going to be some work involved, one way or the other. You just have to buckle down, persevere, and if it’s something that you really love, don’t let anything stop you from doing it. Just go for it.”

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A

Build Heart-Healthy Behaviors for Preschoolers at Home

pressing concern like a global pandemic can quickly overshadow other important health challenges facing families. One is the issue of childhood obesity, a problem the slower pace of life brought on by COVID-19 could exacerbate.

Numerous cardiovascular and mental health risks are associated with childhood obesity, and many experts expect to see increases in both mental health challenges and obesity as a result of COVID-19.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, childhood obesity impacts 40% of children between the ages of 2-5, increasing their risk for type 2 diabetes, asthma and depression.

Data from a study published in the “Early Childhood Education Journal” from the American Heart Association shows children diagnosed as overweight between 7-13 years old may develop heart disease as early as age 25. However, preventative steps taken in early childhood can help reduce this risk.

Keeping young children healthy while at home during the pandemic requires extra attention to their nutrition, physical activity and screen time. Programs like the American Heart Association’s Healthy Way to Grow, a national, science-based, early childhood technical assistance program, provide educational resources to help communities, educators and caregivers improve practices and policies for obesity prevention.

These tips from the program can help early childhood professionals and caregivers promote best practices into the daily lives of children.

Nutrition

Less than 1% of children have ideal diets, and under 10% have reasonably healthy diets, according to the American Heart Association. On any given day, 27% of 2- and 3-yearolds don’t eat a vegetable; among those who do, fried potatoes, which are high in fat and lower in nutrients, are most common. In fact, data shows kids eat less nutritious foods up to age 19.

Children should consume a variety of foods daily, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairies, lean vegetable or animal protein and fish. At the same time, kids should minimize trans fats, processed meats, refined carbohydrates and sweetened beverages.

Consistently timed meals and pairing new foods with choices they already enjoy are two ways to help form healthier habits. Be aware that healthy choices should apply throughout the day, not only for meals but also snacks and beverages. Eating together as a family provides an opportunity to model healthy eating and encourage children to try new foods. Also make water available and accessible to children throughout the day.

For infants, feeding provides nutrition for their physical and mental growth. Healthy babies usually double their birth weight between 4-5 months of age. Infants and children with congenital heart disease and congestive heart failure or cyanosis (blueness) tend to gain weight slower. An 8-ounce-1pound gain in a month may be an acceptable weight gain for a baby with a heart defect.

Physical Activity Only about 20% of kids perform enough activity to meet physical activity recommendations. Whether you’re working with children in a childcare setting or at home, look for ways

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

to incorporate lesson plans that offer learning experiences about healthy eating and physical activity, and ensure the daily schedule includes ample active playtime.

The Healthy Way to Grow program recommends all children, including infants, have at least two outdoor active playtimes daily, weather and air quality permitting. Toddlers should engage in 60-90 minutes while 120 minutes of daily active play is recommended for preschoolers. Half the time should be structured and led by a teacher or caregiver while the remaining playtime should be unstructured and up to the child.

Learn more about protecting the health and wellness of children in your home and community at healthywaytogrow. org. (Family Features)

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • February 2021 • Page 39

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5 Benefits of Weighted Blankets, Including Better Sleep

uality sleep is essential to good health, but daily life - the stresses of work and family, too much screen time, caffeine or alcohol - disrupts our body’s natural sleep cycle.

One tool to promote better sleep is a weighted blanket, but the benefits go beyond sleep. Here are five benefits weighted blankets provide: 1. Helps you fall asleep faster Most people know what it’s like to toss and turn at night just waiting to fall asleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, it should take 10-20 minutes to fall asleep.

If it takes you more time than that there are steps you can take like adding a weighted blanket to your bedtime routine.

2. Helps you stay asleep longer - The CDC says adults should get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. If you’re in need of more restful slumber, a product like a Tranquility weighted blanket and its calming pressure can help you sleep more soundly with fewer bouts of restlessness so you wake feeling more rested.

3. Enhances relaxation - Weighted blankets offer deep touch pressure, a sensory experience like a soothing hug, which works to relax the nervous system and creates a feeling of calm so you can rest more comfortably. A weighted blanket isn’t just for bedtime - it can

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be used to create a more relaxing experience when you’re winding down on the couch or even on a Zoom call.

“Research shows that weighted blankets can help with better relaxation and sleep, two things that are critical to overall health,” says wellness expert Jamie Hess of NYCfitfam. “It’s important to take care of yourself, both mentally and physically and I’ve found adding a Tranquility weighted blanket to my daily routine helps me reclaim my calm.”

4. Provides comfort - Many Americans experience stress and anxiety with daily life, and since the onset of COVID-19, more Americans than ever are experiencing these emotions. If someone you know is going through a rough patch, giving the soothing comfort of a weighted blanket can be a thoughtful and personal way to show you care.

5. Makes a thoughtful gift for giving - A weighted blanket can make a great gift for anyone in your life, especially when people may not be gathering like they typically do. Cozy Tranquility weighted blankets are an affordable gift option for everyone on your list.

If you have been on the fence about trying a weighted blanket, these are some reasons to consider this soothing, sleep-inducing comfort. (BPT)

Page 40 • February 2021 • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

D

5 Ways to Ensure Medication Safety During COVID-19

uring the COVID-19 pandemic, staying healthy is top of mind. For individuals at risk for or diagnosed with COVID-19, the addition of new treatments may pose another medical danger: adverse drug events (ADEs). ADEs cause an estimated 150,000 deaths per year in the United States and 1.3 million emergency room visits, resulting in nearly 350,000 people hospitalized for further treatment.

The experts at Tabula Rasa HealthCare, a team of clinical pharmacists building solutions for personalized medication safety, recommend several actions to improve medication safety and prevent ADEs: 1. Keep an updated list of all your medications. Ask your doctor(s) for a list of all your medications and update it with overthe-counter medications to ensure you both have a complete profile. Document why you take each medicine, the dose, frequency and time of day. Always have access to it by, for example, creating a secure note in your phone for safekeeping. Also, share a copy with a loved one in case of an emergency.

2. Ask your pharmacist to review your medication regimen. Make an appoint-

ment with your pharmacist to review your medications, including prescription, non-prescription, supplements, herbals and recreational drugs. While you may see multiple health care providers, your pharmacist can provide a holistic review of your regimen. Ask questions and try to understand the purpose of each medication. Your pharmacist likely has access to technological tools that identify risk for preventable ADEs. For example, Tabula Rasa HealthCare’s MedWise is a one-ofa-kind technology solution that compares how medications interact together. Using this unique solution, pharmacists may assist you with managing your medications safer and smarter. If you are not aware if your health plan covers pharmacist visits, consider selecting a plan that does.

3. Ask about the benefits of a “pharmacogenomic” test. If you have a chronic illness and take multiple medications, ask your pharmacist for a test that identifies your personal gene make-up that can affect the way certain medications interact with each other in your body. With this data, your pharmacist can determine if your medications will work as expected, or

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if they may put you at risk for ADEs. With tools that store this data, your pharmacist can personalize your medication regimen and help reduce your risk for ADEs. 4. Ask your pharmacist about risks with every new medication. If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, talk to your pharmacist before taking any new medications to determine if they may increase your risk for ADEs. When adding or removing medications to or from your regimen, it is important to understand how these changes impact your risk for an ADE. Another tool your pharmacist may use is the MedWise Risk Score to help you better understand and measure medication risk with changes. Your pharmacist may adjust how you take your medications or recommend an alternative that is safer for you.

5. Develop a routine for taking your medications and stick with it. Be consistent when you take your medications to avoid ADEs. Your pharmacist can provide you with a unique medication profile that outlines the time to take each of your medications for safety. Setting reminders such as an alert on your cell phone or sticky notes can help remind you to take

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

your medication on time.

Pharmacists are medication safety “quarterbacks,” helping optimize your medication regimen, avoid ADEs and assure you and your loved ones stay healthy and safe, during and after COVID-19. To learn more, visit trhc.com/nextfrontier.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • February 2021 • Page 41

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5 Ways to Make Your Home Eco-Friendly

n earth-friendly approach to your home isn’t just good for the environment. Making minor adjustments with sustainability in mind can enhance your enjoyment and comfort while reducing expenses related to energy consumption.

Harness the sun’s rays. There’s a reason bright rooms with plenty of natural light tend to be warmer: that light carries heat.

Although the effect is less in the winter than in the summer months due to the sun’s position in relation to the earth, those rays can help warm a room. Throw back the curtains and let the light stream in. Not only will you capture some natural warmth, a bright, airy room requires less electric light, so you’ll save on electricity, too.

Swap out cleaning products. While daily cleaners are often top of mind when considering your health and the environment, don’t overlook other types of cleaners, such Photos courtesy of Getty Images as your laundry detergent. An option like all Free Clear Pure Liquid Detergent is 99% bio-based and provides a plant-based clean. It’s hypo-allergenic, which makes it a good option for sensitive skin, and is from the makers of the No. 1 recommended detergent brand by dermatologists, allergists and pediatricians for sensitive skin. Learn more at all-laundry.com.

Get smart about technology. Not only do smart devices add convenience to your home, they can be highly effective tools for helping manage energy usage. Programmable thermostats are especially useful because you can set them to automatically adjust tempera-

tures when you’re away from home, but other devices like smart lights can also be programmed to recognize motion or adjust at certain times of day to reduce energy consumption in unused spaces.

Manage water usage. Many people don’t realize how much water they’re wasting at home. Consider that the Environmental Protection Agency estimates about 30% of each household’s water goes to the toilet and chances are good you’re literally flushing away that natural resource. Manage your water usage by only running full loads of dishes and laundry, eliminating leaks, reducing shower times and switching to a low-flow or other eco-friendly toilet.

Improve air quality. It may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to clean air, but your flooring plays an important role in your home’s air quality. In addition to improving ventilation and opening windows for natural air circulation, you can take other steps to naturally boost your air quality without relying on energy-dependent filtration systems. The carpet in your home can contribute to poor air quality, so be sure to vacuum frequently to minimize dust, dander and other allergens.

Simple adjustments can make a big impact on the earth and your monthly energy expenses. Start with an audit of your home so you can begin taking steps toward an eco-friendly environment. (Family Features)

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By Elsie Walker offers. Expires 8/31/20 ost people take are caps, t-shirts having clean water , and bottled water. for granted. They to Since just turn on a faucet drink gregate where other homeless do, Chillou veterans conhomes and out in their to non-ve comes the water. t gives the items terans as well. if a person is homel However, what In the past, ess? Where does Founder and Directo he or she get water? were donations of items receive the supplies it shared r of Operation Chillou d from drives groups or from ki, recalled that done by individuals. The t, Ray Chimilesa homeless vetera summe Memorial Day – n, who had sepsis, while waiting for Labor Day. Howev r collection is done died COVID19, an er, this year, becaus Operation Chillou ication with pollute operation because he took his e of t can’t take donati med- cal items, d river water. ons of physibut is taking monet Chimileski noted, from the organi ary donations to zation’ that mer items. buy the sumPeople can donate from the New Jersey s own experience and inform ation throug Department of operationchillout.org h its website at Affairs, “one in Military and Vetera www. /. every five homel n Chimileski shared ess people is a In addition to the that Operation Chillou veteran”. the homeless are to t goes to where problems of staying need for water, there are also distrib ute items (soup the ters, etc.) Seeing cool in the summe kitchens, shelwinter, how does a homeless vetera one do that when r and warm in the tion Chillou t will give this “peace n, a member of Operathe streets? he or she is living on winter items, offering”; the summe and the Helping solve the r or the items “a peace organization’s card. Chimileski ing homeless vetera problems of homelessness and calls offering” becaus help- may have ns receive the service e homeless vetera had bad experie are the two focuse ns nces in the past s of Operation Chillou s they qualify for the service in trying to get s they need; they out is New Jersey’ t. Operation Chillmay have becom s oldest all volunt and given up. They e frustrated eer mobile outrea veterans and homel may be wary of ch for out wants ess men and wome help. Operation these homeless its membership n.

ChillStarted in vetera is made up of both 2000, their advoca ns to know that veterans and civilian te in helping to get serves all of New it will be Jersey, northeast them the service s. It they qualify Pennsylvania, and s for which and also help them al Rhode Island. coastChimileski shared with other needs.

Chimileski noted that Operation was “selected that this year’s Chillout will be to be the statew distribution of different due to ide special projec 2021 of the New items COVID t 2020- ters are Jersey Federation closed. Also, Operati 19 restrictions. Some shelof Women’s Clubs.”

New Jersey State on (The to put up Federation of Wome its table and speak Chillout won’t be allowed est volunteer wome n’s Clubs is the one-on -one with larg- veterans. n’s service organi Operation Chillou homel a member of the zation in the state ess Ken Steffan, of Operati t will be deliver General Federation and usually gives ing the items it be given out to the on Chillout, gathers some of the out (and its cards of Women’s Clubs.)

Operating out of supplies to homeless. for Long Valley, just homeless vetera the organizations Operation Chillou one of the many ns) to distribute, like ways for Vetera t helps is throug the Supportive Serviceto to be. n Families (of the h giving out certain during the summe s Cathol items diocese of r and winter; in Chimileski noted the summer, those Newark), soup kitchen ic Charities of the Archthat COVID-19 restric items will also ed the organization s, etc. Operation tions have affectgo to other places Chillout in another way, where the homel too. has Operati cancel led its annua on Chillout ess are known benefits the organi l August Vet Fest fundraiser Putting our client which zation’s Rapid Respon s first for over and veterans rescue se Team Hotline 30 years Certified Publi Team runs 24/7/3 housing costs. “Our Rapid Respon c Accountant 65. We receive calls daily at our se mated hotline Personal Finan (609-619-0861) autocial Specialist from veterans. Referra ls come from many or about homeless agencies, first respon Peter G. Neuberg, sources: individ uals, CPA/PFS VA itself. We provid ders, family members and often Peter.Neuberg@hend the e tel stays and whatev no cost transportation and brief www.hendersonne ersonneuberg.com moer incidental items uberg.com cue the veteran are needed to resfrom the homel ess crisis. While safe, we arrang secure and e or provide access 245 Main Street ing solutions. In to longer term Suite 201 hous2019, we rescue d an average of homel ess vetera Phone one Chester, NJ 07930 n per day - over new : 908-879-7624 300 individuals.”

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Get Tested for COPD: Your Lungs Will Thank You

I

f you’re often short of breath during everyday activities, your chest feels tight, or you cough a lot, you may be chalking it up to getting older, having allergies, or being a smoker (now or in the past). Fortunately, there’s a way to know whether something more may be at play. Consider getting a lung function test to find out if you have a serious condition called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Knowing the cause of your cough and breathing problems will not only help you manage your symptoms – it’ll help you feel better, too.

COPD includes two main conditions – emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It’s usually caused by cigarette smoking or breathing in other irritants, such as dusts or chemical fumes. In a small fraction of people, a genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency plays a role in causing COPD. More than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, and millions more have it but don’t know it, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI).

COPD doesn’t have a cure at the moment, but if you seek advice from a health care provider and get diagnosed early, you can slow down this progressive disease. During your appointment, your provider will talk to you about your symptoms and your medical history then listen to your breathing. He or she also may recommend one or more tests to help diagnose COPD. Spirometry: A Lung Function Test

The main test for COPD is called spirometry. During this test, a technician at your health care provider’s office will ask you to sit down and put a clip on your nose, so you can breathe only through your mouth. The technician will then ask you to put your mouth around a mouthpiece, which looks like the mouthpiece on a snorkel. It’s connected to a machine that measures how well you breathe.The technician will ask you to take in a deep breath then blow all of your air out as fast as you can. You’ll repeat that a few times. It’s painless, but it does take some effort.

Your provider will use the test results to determine how healthy your lungs are, if you have COPD and how serious it is, or if asthma or other conditions are causing your symptoms. Spirometry can also help your provider know if you have COPD before you even have symptoms, so if you’re concerned about your lung health, consider getting a spirometry test.

Ask for a lung function test if you: Are over age 40 Are or were a smoker Feel out of breath often Bring up a lot of mucus when you cough Have already been diagnosed with a lung disease Have AAT deficiency Are concerned about your lung health Another factor to consider when assessing your lung health is COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus that has spread throughout the world. Unlike COPD,

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If you have a chronic lung disease, such as COPD, and get infected with COVID-19, you are at higher risk of getting very sick. COVID-19 can affect your respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs), and possibly lead to pneumonia and acute respiratory disease. For more information on COVID-19, visit CDC.gov.

NHLBI’s Learn More Breathe BetterSM program provides free educational resources about COPD, videos on spirometry, and more. Find them at copd.nhlbi.nih.gov. (Family Features)

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Page 44 • February 2021 • Mt. Olive - Hackettstown Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Get Organized for an Envy-Worthy Garage

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garage may not be the focal point of your home, but it likely plays a significant role in your family’s everyday life. Keeping the garage tidy can help you get the most out of the space, no matter how you use it.

Get your garage spruced up and ready to deliver the storage and workspace you need with these tips from the organization experts at ClosetMaid.

Start by sorting. Garages tend to accumulate a lot of stuff, some of it useful and much of it not. Begin your garage clean-out by sorting your belongings into groups.

The items you no longer need can be divided further into sell, donate and trash piles. For the things you’re keeping, try to create groups of like items, which can make it easier to organize later.

Empty as much as you can. Cleaning out the garage is one of those jobs that typically gets messier before it gets cleaner. Removing as much of the contents of your garage as possible can make it easier to reach all the nooks and crannies for a more complete cleaning.

Give it a power scrub. Clean every surface to remove dust, dirt and debris. This means everything from sweeping floors and wiping down counters to brushing away cobwebs from the ceiling. If possible, use a hose to clean the floor thoroughly and remove buildup tracked in from your vehicle tires. Be thorough and use a critical eye. Don’t overlook details like light switches or the wall behind the trash can.

Make storage easy. With a clean slate, it’s the perfect time to rethink your organization and put things in place with storage units designed to stand up to the wear and tear of the environment. One option is the ProGarage line from ClosetMaid. This customizable collection of professional-quality garage and workspace storage is made of 24-gauge steel cabinetry for maximum durability. You can choose from a variety of cabinet sizes with floor mount and wall mount options, as well as worktable or tabletop. Each piece features full-length extruded aluminum handles for easy opening and closing, adjustable legs to keep cabinets level on sloped floors, caster wheels for portability and a lock and key for security.

Put things back in place. If you take the time to separate items as you sort and purge in the beginning, this last step will be quick and painless. Now that the space is clean and you have storage space ready to fill, it’s time to begin moving everything back into place. Put similar items together. Keep the things you use most often in easy reach and stash others on higher shelves.

Before you close the doors and call it a day, be sure to show everyone, including the kids, where things belong.

Your garage may get dirty again quickly, but with some help from the family, you can at least keep it picked up and usable longer. Find more helpful tips for keeping every part of your home organized like a pro at ClosetMaid. com. (Family Features)

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Tips to Help Make the Most of Your Health Plan in 2021

ast year was a difficult year as the COVID-19 pandemic swept through our country, impacting families and communities nationwide. The health challenges of the pandemic also provided a crucial reminder about the importance of health care.

For many Americans, new health plan benefits began in January. If this is your situation, now is the perfect time to learn how to maximize this year’s health benefits, which may help improve your health - and possibly save money too.

Ann Marie O’Brien, R.N., national director of health strategies at UnitedHealthcare, provides the following tips to help you take charge of your health and get the most out of your plan in 2021: * Understand health insurance concepts. Review common health insurance terms like premium, deductible and copay. This may help you better understand your plan and how your costs are calculated. Insurance plans differ depending on the providers you see and how much you pay for services. Remember, in-network providers are contracted with your health insurer to provide services at a lower cost, so consider checking whether your current health care providers are in your network before making an appointment.

Out-of-network providers may cost more and lead to higher out-of-pocket costs for you. * Schedule preventive services. Be proactive by taking advantage of preventive services that are often covered by your insurance, like an annual physical, mental health screening or flu shot. Scheduling these appointments with your primary care doctor may help prevent health problems before they arise.

* Check your behavioral health coverage. Some insurers, such as UnitedHealthcare, offer behavioral health care programs that can range from treatment for substance use, eating disorders, anxiety and stress, with a goal of helping to improve your overall well-being. For example, an on-demand emotional support mobile app called Sanvello¬Æ is available to help you cope with stress, anxiety and depression. * Take advantage of telehealth visits. A popular health care choice, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been telehealth or virtual visits, which enable people to connect 24/7 with a health care provider via a smartphone, tablet or personal computer. They may be an easier, more affordable way to talk to a doctor about common health issues. Log in to your health plan’s member portal to check availability. * Explore your options for wellness programs. Many health plans now offer discounts and other incentives for working out, walking, signing up for an online health coaching program, lowering your cholesterol, or avoiding nicotine.

Incentive-based wellness programs are designed to reward people for making healthier choices. Check with your insurer or employer to see what programs are available to you. * Review your prescription coverage. Check to see what’s covered under your prescription drug plan by logging into your health plan’s member portal or by calling the phone number on your ID card. Your plan will show medication costs and coverage and help you locate a network pharmacy. It also helps to ask about generic medication options. In many cases, generic medications contain the same active ingredients as their brand-name counterparts, and they may

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Since 2007, UHCCF has awarded more than 25,000 grants valued at over $54 million to children and their families across the United States. Families can read eligibility criteria and complete an online application at www.uhccf.org.

Becoming familiar with your new health plan - especially at the start of a new year - is one way to help you be proactive when it comes to your health. For more health and wellness information, visit UHC.com. (BPT)

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I

How to Welcome a New Puppy to the Family

ntroducing a new puppy to your household can bring many rewards. However, getting the hang of things can take some time, especially for first-time pet owners.

In fact, it takes the average pet owner almost four months to get into the flow with a new four-legged family member, according to a survey by Royal Canin. Eight in 10 respondents said the first year of pet ownership is the most important, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. The survey found 64% believe the first year is also the most difficult and deciding how to train a new pet was cited as the most important decision pet parents have to make.

“Bringing a puppy home is a hugely rewarding experience for pet owners, but it’s Photo courtesy of Getty Images also a time of huge challenges and steep learning curves,” said Dr. Jill Cline, pet nutritionist and site director of Royal Canin’s Pet Health and Nutrition Center. “In addition to helping your puppy adjust to its new home, you can support your puppy’s health now and always with a nutritionally complete diet tailored to its specific needs.”

Make welcoming a new puppy a rewarding experience for the whole family with these tips.

Arriving Home Your puppy may be feeling stressed by new sights, sounds, smells and the separation from its mother. Manage the noise and activity to avoid adding to this stress.

As soon as you get home, take your puppy to your yard or outside area so it can go to the bathroom. Use positive verbal reinforcement when the job is done.

Once indoors, block off a safe area and let your puppy sniff and explore on its own time.

Getting acquainted with a new place takes time and lots of exploring. Some puppies can

be overwhelmed by too much human contact, so allow your puppy to come to you.

Getting Settled Puppies like to know what to expect. Plan your routine for feeding, potty trips, exercise and grooming so you can get started on day one. If you know what routine your puppy had before adoption, it’s best to continue for consistency until your puppy is settled.

Any sudden dietary changes can cause stress or digestive problems, so for the first week or two, give your puppy the same food as its previous owner, following the feeding recommendations on the package. Nutrition tailored to specific developmental needs can help fragile, young puppies grow into strong, healthy dogs. It’s important to select a high-quality food based on age and expected adult size.

Your puppy’s eating spot should be away from where you and any other pets eat. Allow your puppy to eat in peace to prevent it from feeling nervous or protective.

Puppies tire easily and need as much as 18-20 hours of sleep per day for healthy development. A crate near where you sleep lets your puppy see and smell you but keeps it from wandering off. Put something that carries your scent in your puppy’s bed along with a blanket to snuggle into.

Remember to schedule regular veterinarian visits and gradually introduce your puppy to new experiences like sounds, car travel, walks and other animals. It’s also important to begin behavior training right away to develop good habits from the start.

If you’re interested in getting a new puppy, before making a decision on which breed best suits your family and lifestyle, you can see all 196 registered breeds during the 2021 AKC National Championship. Find more advice for welcoming a new puppy into your home at RoyalCanin.com/puppies. (Family Features)

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