Hometown 13 May 2025 by My Life Publications..Maljon LLC

Spacecraft Crashes in Grovers Mill NJ

By Henry M. Holden

The central figure in this story is Orson Wells, a celebrated playwright and director. The 28-year-old Wells had participated in programs on CBS Network Radio, titled Mercury Theater on the Air. The broadcast is scheduled on Halloween Eve. However, Wells thought it out and everyone thought it would be fun to do an adaptation of the British H.G. Welles War of the Worlds (no relation).

The last few decades of space exploration have shown that the universe is violent and dangerous, at least with respect to human life. For example: in 1908 an object of unknown nature – probably a comet – hit Siberia with a force equivalent to a hydrogen bomb. Had this impact happened a few hours later, allowing for the Earth’s rotation, this object would have destroyed St. Petersburg, Russia and probably much more.

The station’s regular program was Saturday, October 30, 1938 – Halloween Eve.

Preparations are under way for a musical beginning, a guest speaker and a close with some dance music.

“We are fortunate to get Susan Oliver, Ph.D. who specializes in the Moon to come on the show,” says Patrick Stewart program director. “Can you share with us some of the activities in your specialty?”

“Of course, thank you for inviting me. Please let me share some stats to put it in perspective. The distance between the Moon and Earth on average is about 239,800 miles and about two and one half days to get

there. But we have no vehicles capable of any kind of space travel.

Now in comparison the big difference between the Earth and Mars is an average 140 million miles away. I could provide a detailed explanation using Orbital Mechanics, but few people understand it . Instead, let’s talk about some of the explanations in the speed of the satellite. If we had such a vehicle it would have an orbital speed of about 17,000 miles per hour. But, even if we had a rocket capable of such speed we don’t have the materials

and the will of the people to build one. This will take several decades to create.

“Meanwhile, a foreign vehicle that could land here would have to be a very large spacecraft, however, in general they are large, cylindrical projectiles fired from the Martian surface by some sort of cannon.

There is wide spread talk that the Martians instead would emerge from their craft in the same way, by unscrewing a large, round hatch.

They appear to have no use for humans, however, there is widespread circulation that the invaders would sustain themselves by "feeding" on humans, by fatally transfusing their captives' blood supply directly into Martian bodies through pipettes.

There is later speculation about the Martians' eventually using trained human slaves to hunt down all remaining survivors after they conquer. Then a newscaster from another location interrupts the program’

“We just received a re-

In spite of human evidence indicating that there was never a Martian invasion the locals in Grovers Mill erected a marker commemorating the event that never happened.

port that tonight an unidentified vehicle from outer space crashed in a pasture in Grovers Mill, in Mercer County, NJ.

“We have just been told by someone on the scene, a reporter who happened to be just a few miles away and raced to the scene and he described what he saw.

“This is reporter, Kyle R0te and I’m looking at what may be a crashed space vehicle that is in flames. I’m going to try and get a closer look.

“Good heavens, something is wiggling out of the shadows like a gray snake. There is another one and another. They look like tentacles. I can see what I think are the scales around what maybe a head. The body is large, larger than a bear and it glistens like wet leather. But that face …ladies and gentlemen, this creature is indescribable. …I have force myself to keep looking at it. I just don’t have the words for it…”

According to the astronomers observations suggest Mars is becoming unable to support life, leading to the Martians' decision to try to make Earth their new home. A hatch on the object unscrews and falls away. As three men standing guard attempt to make contact waving a white flag, a heat-ray obliterates them. U.S. Marines later surround the site, as reports pour in of more cylinders, presumably from Mars, landing all over Earth, destroying cities. Three war machines now emerge from the cylinder. A local Pastor attempts contact them but is disintegrated. Marines open fire but are unable to penetrate the invaders' force field. The aliens counterattack with death ray weaponry, killing most of the Marines and sending the remaining Marines into retreat. The Air Force attacks follow- up, but they are annihilated.

“A Martian bear has no physical resemblance to humans, said professor Oliver. They are described as bear-sized, roundish creatures with grayish-brown bodies, "merely heads", with quivering beak-like, V-shaped mouths dripping saliva. They have sixteen whip-like tentacles in two groupings of eight arranged on each side of their mouths and two large "luminous, disk-like eyes. They are reddish-brown creatures with two long, thin arms with three long, thin fingers with suction-cup tips. The Martian head is a broad "face" at the top-front of its broad-shouldered upper torso, the only apparent feature of which is a single, large eye with three distinctly colored lenses of red, blue, and green.”

Another announcer comes on to say that “due to circumstances beyond our control the radio station is having problems with the broadcast. Soothing music comes from a dance band in New York City.

Brigadier General Montgomery Smith, of the New Jersey State Militia, arrives with the announcement that Mercer County and Middlesex Counties are being placed under martial law and homes are being evacuated. The soldiers are being rushed to the scenes. Listeners quickly learn that the solders have been wiped out and the Martians are in control of Central Jersey.

More details of this attack are quickly followed by an artillery movement in Plainsboro to stop the enemy. Another report says another alien ship has landed in Basking Ridge. Apparently more Martians have crossed the Passaic River in the giant in giant machines. They are at the Pulaski Skyway destroying power stations. The general is warning that the black smoke pouring in from Jersey Meadows is probably poisonous and is close and is drifting close to the Morristown Green. And it is reaching South Street.

A reporter is saying that the local population is trying to get out of town, but road courtesy and manners have disappeared. The law enforcement is trying to move the vehicles to open spaces and use routes 7 and 24 to avoid congestion areas. The heavy black thick smoke is reported over Raymond Boulevard.

cont. on page 5

Linda D'Amico's Academy of Dance Enter its 48th Year

Linda D'Amico's Academy of Dance is thrilled to enter its 48th year of sharing dance with this incredible community. LDAD has always been a place of refuge for its students and staff since its origins as a small, one room studio. Now more than double the size and holding three state- of-the-art studios at the Clock Tower Shopping Center in Pompton Plains, LDAD is excited to expand its student body as well.

LDAD offers a wide range of classes to fit the needs of any dancer aged 3-18 years old. Students today have incredibly busy schedules and a variety of interests, which is why they offer ongoing registration throughout the school year and flexible schedules to work around the sports and school calendars. LDAD believes that sports and dance complement each other, therefore welcome and encourage students to participate in both. Classes are offered at the recreational level for those who are taking up dance for the first time or those who have been dancing for years and enjoy the opportunity to have fun for a couple of hours every week. So, whether it's ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, or acro that you're interested in, LDAD has just the class for you.

For those whose passion for dance runs deep and wish to dedicate time and effort to the craft, LDAD's competition team offers a higher level of training and performance opportunities. This team meets multiple days a week to rehearse and perfect choreographed routines that are performed at multiple regional competitions throughout the year, culminating in a national competition every summer, where they have taken home top prizes and a multitude of judicated and special awards.

But Linda D'Amico's Academy of Dance has never been about awards or recognition. The studio philosophy has been centered on teaching young people how to channel their feelings and emotions into artful expression. To create lifelong friendships that extend well beyond the stage. To discover oneself and be a part of something greater than you could ever dream. Because as Linda D'Amico always says, "if you can dream it, you can achieve it." And she did exactly that. What started as a dream and just a couple students nearly 50 years ago, LDAD has grown into a local dance institution that has seen its graduates go on to achieve tremendous things both in and outside the world of dance. And after 48 years of dedicated service, LDAD's matriarch hung up her dancing shoes and retired from the studio. LDAD's new artistic director, Paula Redmond, has been an integral part of the

studio for nearly two decades and eagerly takes on this new role by continuing the legacy Mrs. D started.

You can come and be a part of this incredible legacy and community of dancers today by calling the office at 973-616-0300 or visiting the website www.genofdance.com. You can also follow LDAD at @ldadancers on Instagram.

Spacecraft Crashes...

Maps are useless as dense smoke fills the air. The radio broadcast is supp0sed to be calming but does not ease the anxiety or fear that infects everyone. Those who have maps find them useless.

The broadcaster warns that all of New Jersey is now under Marshal Law and looters, or anyone mentioned including Morristown the Watchung Mountains, Plainview and Bayonne should expect extreme responses from those who have rifles or handguns. Law Enforcement has issued a warning, that anyone using a weapon will be delt with in the most aggressive way possible. In other words, sh00t on sigh.

The police in New Yok contacted the Peoples Drug Store chain in New Jersey to lock up immediately. Gun dealers have already shut down, but there is serious looting and destruction of property in reports the Newark, Chatham and Dover.

While the broadcast was in progress and 42 minutes into the show, the network interrupted to announce the program had been dramatized.

One of America’s worldwide known announcers began his regular broadcast which came on the air at 9pm right after the dramatic end of the War of the Worlds.

“Good evening Mr. and Mrs. America, and all the ships at sea. This is Walter Winchell. The Mercury Theater on the Air presentation of the War of the Worlds was dramatization which we mentioned, but it seems a lot of people missed the opening.” It seems that the Mercury Theater on the Air had a minor share of the national radio listeners averaging less than 4-percent.

The Martians killed most of the humans they meet, but we also learn they need blood and tissue from humans to fertilize the extraterrestrial plants they are growing on Earth. The supply of humans seems to be abundant, and the Martians are on a ticking clock. If they don’t get the transfusions they need within 72 hours of contact they wither and die quickly. The world stepped aside and with time on the side of the humans the invasion went quietly into the history books.

In the days after the adaptation, there was widespread outrage expressed in the media. The program's news-bulletin format was described as deceptive by some newspapers and public figures, leading to an outcry against the broadcasters and calls for regulation by the FCC. Wells apologized at a hastily called news conference the next morning, and no punitive action was taken.

However, as challenging as this may be, playing at Carnegie Hall is not the only experience they celebrate. Khloe Dennis-Walker, the youngest performer in this concert at age 4, shares, “My favorite thing about learning violin is my teachers teaching me how to do stuff. I like my recitals and playing violin games in group class.”

Sophia also shares one of her favorite parts in her music journey, “I like the feeling of accomplishing a piece and getting to perform it in front of a huge audience.” Frank also adds, “I enjoy the feeling of playing the pieces/songs that I like and the friendships that I develop along the way.”

On top of this, they also shared how playing music has helped them focus, build confidence, and improve their problem-solving skills. Maisey’s mom, Molly Dorsman also adds, “Ensemble classes give her a sense of teamwork. It’s been wonderful to watch.”

Student-led, faculty-supported, and fervor-fueled, the Carnegie Hall performance at Weill Recital Hall on June 23rd, will surely exhibit music that is met by passion and excellence! With no conductor to guide them, students must listen carefully, respond intuitively, and move as one cohesive unit — a unique and empowering experience Play It Forward intentionally cultivates. For the community of Play It Forward, this event is more than just a year-end event — it’s a celebration of dedication, friendship, and the transformative power of music.

What Makes Magic, Magic?

By Henry M. Holden

Bill Wisch is a 52-year-old professional, magician, artist, lecturer, teacher, and inventor, from 1971 to the present.

He practices his art by remembering “Misdirection is true when they believe what you do and then follow you."

“I was a Navy musician for four years, and one of our tours took us to the Mediterranean for five and a half months at the end of 1969. During a liberty visit to the island of Malta with some fellow sailors, we encountered a street performer engaging in a game of three-card Monte. At the time, I had no idea what the game entailed. I noticed several sailors betting money and some even winning. Intrigued, I watched closely and thought I could identify the card with a slight bend on its edge. Convinced I could win, I decided to join the game.

I placed a 20-pound bet, (about $48.00) confident I had identified the correct card. To my dismay, when he turned it over, it was the wrong one. Just then, the cops appeared, causing everyone to scatter. Much to my surprise, the perpetrators had donned sailor uniforms to blend in with us.

This experience captivated me. After leaving the Navy in 1971, I visited a magic shop in New York City and recounted my tale. The shopkeeper educated me about three-card Monte and sold me a book on the subject. My newfound intrigue led me to the library, where I delved into more books on magic, eventually incorporating these stories into my library presentations.

In 1973, Wisch began studying sleight of hand with Tony Slydini in New York City. Slydini is considered by many magicians to be one of the two finest 20th-century performers, lecturers and creators of artistic sleight-of-hand magic; Dai Vernon is the other.

In 1976, Slydini wrote a personal authorization letter to all magic societies and associations in North America, sponsoring his protégé, Bill Wisch, to represent him and take his place introducing, demonstrating and marketing his long awaited, two-volume, book sets, The Best of Slydini and More and The Magical World of Slydini, both written by Karl Fulves.

“These two book sets are must-read standard classics in magical literature”, said Wisch.”

Spice up brunch this Mother’s Day

Children commonly like to give their mothers a break from cooking on Mother’s Day. Youngsters may be eager to help out in the kitchen and whip up something that Mom is certain to enjoy. But many recipes can be complicated for younger children or others who might not be so adept with meal creation. However, with a few ingredients that families may already have on hand, it’s possible to craft a delicious Mother’s Day brunch.

This recipe for “Wee Chicken & Waffles with Jezebel-Maple Syrup” from Denise Gee’s “Southern Appetizers: 60 Delectables for Gracious Get-Togethers” (Chronicle Books) utilizes commercially available miniature waffles and popcorn chicken bites to create a chicken and waffles dish with a kick. Serve alongside mini muffins, deviled eggs, cheese and crackers, and other brunch dishes that are simple for youngsters and their little fingers to prepare.

Wee Chicken & Waffles with Jezebel-Maple Syrup Serves 10 to 12, Three or Four Waffles Each

Jezebel-Maple Syrup

2 cups maple syrup

1⁄4 cup pineapple preserves

1⁄4 cup apple jelly

11⁄2 tablespoons prepared horseradish 3⁄4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1⁄2 teaspoon salt

40 mini waffles from a 10.9-ounce package, lightly toasted 40 pieces cooked fried popcorn chicken Finely chopped fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley or green onion for garnish (optional) Hot sauce for serving

To make the syrup: In a large microwave-safe glass measuring cup with pour spout (one holding at least 3 cups) or a bowl, add the maple syrup, pineapple preserves, apple jelly, horseradish, pepper, and salt; whisk to combine.

Microwave the mixture on high for 35 seconds. (You also can heat it in a small saucepan on low until the mixture is warm.) Stir and taste, adjusting the flavor if desired. Set the syrup aside.

Place the toasted waffles on a large serving platter. Top each waffle with a piece of chicken. Drizzle the chicken-waffle bites with about 1 teaspoon of the syrup. Garnish with the parsley, if desired, and serve with the remaining syrup and hot sauce.

other’s Day presents an opportunity for people to shower the special women in their lives with extra love and affection. There are many ways to show Mom you care apart from gifts and dining out. A homemade dessert featuring rich and creamy chocolate might be exactly what Mom needs to cap off a perfect day spent with her family.

This recipe for “Mint Chocolate Mousse” from “Chocolate: Deliciously Indulgent Recipes for Chocolate Lovers” (Ryland, Peters & Small) by Maxine Clark is ideal for mothers who love the taste of mint and chocolate. It’s relatively simple to make, so it should be something that young children can handle with a little help from an adult.

Mint Chocolate Mousse

Serves 4

5 ounces dark chocolate (60 to 70 percent cocoa solids), chopped or broken up into smaller pieces

4 to 6 chocolate covered dinner mints, chopped

4 eggs, separated

2 tablespoons sugar

4 tablespoons heavy cream

1 teaspoon powdered gelatin

2 tablespoons chopped chocolate mint sticks, or frosted mint leaves and 1 cup heavy cream, to decorate 4 pots or dessert cups, for serving

Melt the chocolate with the dinner mints over a double boiler or in the microwave. Let cool slightly. Using an electric mixer, beat together the egg yolks and sugar in a large bowl until thick and mousselike, then beat in the melted chocolate-mint mixture.

Sprinkle the gelatin over 4 tablespoons water in a small, heatproof bowl and let soak and swell for 2 to 3 minutes. Put the bowl in a pan of simmering water and stir until the gelatin has dissolved. Beat into the chocolate-mint mixture.

Working quickly, beat the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until stiff but not dry, then fold into the chocolate mixture with a metal spoon.

Divide the mousse between the pots. Scatter with the chopped mint sticks, then refrigerate until set. Alternatively, whip the 1 cup cream and use to decorate the mousses, along with the frosted mint leaves. Leave at cool room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

The Benefits of Home Security Cameras

Homeowners go to great lengths to make their properties comfortable places to call home. Whether it’s new interior furnishings or renovated outdoor living areas or the installation of various smart home technologies, there’s no shortage of ways to upgrade a home with comfort in mind.

When homeowners renovate a home in an effort to make spaces more relaxing and welcoming, it’s important they recognize the relationship between comfort and safety. A home is only as comfortable as it is safe, as residents might struggle to relax if they’re concerned about their safety. Security cameras can help quell such concerns, which is one of a handful of reasons homeowners should consider these increasingly popular safety features for their homes.

• Security cameras can help to deter criminals. Property crimes may not garner the same level of news coverage as violent crimes, but a recent report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation indicated that there were still nearly 900,000 burglary offenses in the United States in 2022. That figure represents a decline of more than 50 percent since 2012, when FBI data indicates more than 1.8 million such offenses were committed. A host of variables undoubtedly contributed to that decline, and the greater availability and increased affordability of security cameras has made it easier than ever for homeowners to make their homes less appealing to prospective burglars.

• Security cameras may help to lower insurance premiums. Exterior security cameras can help individuals lower the cost of their homeowners insurance policies. The extent of those savings may depend on the type of cameras homeowners install and whether or not the cameras are integrated into a whole-home security system. The Insurance Information Institute notes that whole home security systems can save homeowners anywhere from 2 to 15 percent on their homeowners insurance policies. More advanced systems, such as those which feature alarms and exterior cameras, can earn homeowners greater savings on their policies.

• Security cameras provide peace of mind while traveling. Modern security camera systems now provide remote access through smartphone apps. That can give homeowners peace of mind when traveling, as they can monitor their properties when they’re away from home and potentially alert local authorities if they notice anything suspicious on their

remote feeds.

• Security cameras can give parents peace of mind. Much like security cameras help travelers keep an eye on their property while they’re away, parents also may find that access to real-time video footage of their homes can calm their nerves when children are in the house. Parents can utilize cameras to keep tabs on youngsters playing in the yard and monitor feeds to see what older kids are up to while Mom and Dad are at work or away from the home for other reasons.

Home security cameras are a worthwhile investment that can save homeowners money and provide peace of mind that they’re doing everything possible to make their homes comfortable, safe spaces to live.

By Evan Wechman

CNJStarz

NJ Starz: Chef Anton Testino Hometown: Butler

hef Anton Testino who currently owns and operates Axton’s restaurant in Pompton Lakes, New Jersey, never imagined as a child he would become a major chef in the area. As a child who grew up poor, watching his family work hard to take care of him, he loved the chaos of the restaurant business, even though the idea of running major kitchens in the tri-state area seemed far away.

When Testino was a child, his mother sometimes had to bring him to work since there was a lack of childcare options. It was here that Testino fell in love with the idea of working in a kitchen.

“When I was a kid, my mother had to bring me to work, and when I went to work, I was only probably about 11 or 12 years old, give or take, something like that. And I used to go into the kitchen sometimes, and I watched all the chaos, and everything was just out of control, with all these orders coming in and people trying to control the uncontrollable, and that’s having so much put into you at one time, trying to perfect it, and the flames and the yelling and screaming, and I just fell in love with it when I was a little kid”, Testino said.

Several years later in 1991, Testino went to Morris County Vocational Tech in Denville for culinary arts and graduated at the top of his class while winning many amateur cooking competitions. Then, in 1992 he was accepted into the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. He studied there until 1994 when he made plans to open his first restaurant in Edgewater, New Jersey; António’s Pizza, Pasta and More.

Though Testino studied at some great culinary institutes, for him there was no greater education than working in the field.

“”Being in the field has probably taught me more about how to be creative than going to school itself,” he said.

Testino did just that as he worked at many of the finest restaurants in New York City and New Jersey where he built a big following.

However, his big break where he reached national acclaim came in 2010 when the television show “Chopped “was aired featuring Testino. The chef initially didn’t know much about the program, and it was never his intention to be on the show.

“”It was an accident. It wasn’t something that was supposed to happen. I worked at this one restaurant, my cousin’s place for about 15 years, and I did all the menu creation and helped them boost that business up. And a lot of the customers would come up to me at the time and they would be like, oh, you should really try out for this TV show “Chopped.” And you know, back then, I was like, I don’t even know what “Chopped” is. The internet wasn’t like it was today, and I was just kind of like, you know what, I’ve had about 20 people say this, so maybe I should just watch the show and see what it’s all about right? So I did, and I said I can do this. I create something all the time, so I decided, why not? I made a video and sent it in and got myself an interview, which is crazy, from what I understood at the time. A lot of people tried out

for the show 10, or 15 times before they get something. but I got on the first shot,” Testino said.

Testino, still a small restaurant worker, loved competing against chefs from multimillion-dollar restaurants while on the show and was praised by the judges for his wonderful octopus creation. Unfortunately, he was eliminated from the show, but it helped him grow his following.

“ It was actually the best thing that ever happened to me ,because it made people see me completely differently, and that was exciting, and that’s that was actually the reason I got on “Hell’s Kitchen,” Testino said.

In 2012, Testino auditioned for the popular television show “Hell’s Kitchen” which was hosted by legendary chef Gordon Ramsay.

Testino rose again to the level of the competition and thrived. He impressed viewers, but most importantly, Testino received great praise from one of his idols, Wolfgang Puck. The internationally acclaimed chef loved the Italian food Testino made, and said it reminded him of Italy.

“That was probably the greatest culinary moment of my entire life.” My family gained their living making pizza in this country. That’s how they survived. That’s how they became who they are today. And the fact that I took my family’s name and impressed the best pizza man in the world, Wolfgang Puck, was great,” Testino said.

Despite all the attention and praise Testino received because of his television appearances, it was never about becoming famous for him. Rather for Testino it’s all about giving back to others and the surrounding communities.

Throughout his career, Testino has always donated money to local high school scholarships and other causes that benefit people.

“I’m always giving back to the community. I lived a very poor life, and it was rough, and the fact that I didn’t have much in life growing up, now that I’m able to give back. Why not? Why not help kids?” he said.

Testino believes that since so many people helped him along his road to success, it makes sense to give back to others. For instance, he helped raise millions of dollars for the patients and families of St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital through their fundraiser “Cooking for Kids.”

According to Testino, the hospital cared for one of his best friend’s children who was born premature and did everything in their power to make sure she fully recovered. St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital shortly thereafter asked Testino if he would help with their fundraiser and the chef couldn’t have been more excited to help.

“They saved her life. Wow. And she’s 17 or 18 years old today. And because of that, and after doing TV shows, they asked me if I would do a charity event for them. And I was like, absolutely. Like, you saved my friend’s daughter, I’m all about helping out. So I ended up doing” Cooking for Kids” for 10 years.”

Testino’s voluntary endeavors don’t stop just at raising money. One of his most endearing accomplishments is his

mentoring of a young man named Nick. Testino has been guiding Nick in the culinary arts since he was 15 years old. He is now 24 and an executive chef at a top restaurant in New York City.

“He’s one of my biggest accomplishments to me. He’s a huge success and I feel I’m important in it because I helped him get there to open up the doors,” Testino said.

For Testino, who has owned and operated “Axton’s” in Pompton Lakes since 2016, finding time to help the community and run a successful restaurant is a delicate balancing act. But he wouldn’t have it any other way. He gives fully of himself to both areas. He is now in his early 50’s but doesn’t foresee slowing down anytime soon.

“It’s kind of crazy that at 52 years old, I still have the love and passion after doing this for 37 years and doing what I do and competing with the young generation, which I actually enjoy, because when I see a new young chef coming into the picture, and I do research and read about them, that motivates me. I love the challenge”

This passion inspires Testino to keep creating new dishes at Axton’s so people not just in the Pompton Lakes area, but from New York come to his restaurant to savor his wonderful Italian dishes.

But for Testino, spending time running a successful restaurant and helping others in need go hand in hand.

“ I’m donating my time every week to build my name up and to give back and show people who I really am. I’m not just a chef. I’m here to give to the communities which is what a restaurant is supposed to do. It’s supposed to give back,” he said.

Testino believes being a chef is his calling, and he does everything he can to bring honor to his name and the profession. He fondly remembers his grandparent’s preparing dinner for major holidays in their home at 4am so that the whole family would have a great evening. He is using those great memories to pay it forward.

“At the end of the day, there’s not a situation in the world I can think of where the chef’s not there for you. We are there for everybody on the planet. We sacrifice ourselves for you. That’s part of our job. Like you go on a first date, there’s a chef there for you. Funerals, bar mitzvahs, weddings, everything, there is always a chef there, because food is always involved in one way or another.”

Danielle Fiorina Ranks 8th in New Jersey & Top .5% Nationwide for Century 21 in 2024

Patricia Wojtyszyn, broker/owner of CENTURY 21 Crest Real Estate, Inc., proudly announces that Danielle Fiorina, sales associate with CENTURY 21 Crest Real Estate, Inc., has been recognized for her outstanding sales production and commitment to quality service. CENTURY 21 Real Estate LLC recently honored Danielle with the prestigious CENTURION® Award for surpassing $425,000 in gross commission sales within the calendar year.

Danielle has consistently demonstrated excellence, achieving the CENTURION® Award for 10 years and the DOUBLE CENTURION® Award in 2020 and 2021, with commissions exceeding $500,000 and $650,000, respectively. Her impressive track record places her 8th among all CENTURY 21 agents in New Jersey and in the top 0.5% nationwide.

A dedicated professional, Danielle has earned the NJ REALTOR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award for 19 consecutive years and is a proud member of the CENTURION® HONOR SOCIETY. In 2024, she received the CENTURY 21® President’s Producer Award for the 11th year, as well as the Quality Service Pinnacle Producer Award. Additionally, she was named Top Office Producer for 2024, marking her 11th year as the office’s top-producing agent since 2010.

"We are thrilled to recognize Danielle’s work for this momentous achievement," says Mike Miedler, president

and CEO of Century 21 Real Estate LLC. "This is an outstanding honor, as only a small percentage of affiliated agents nationwide receive this level of recognition."

Danielle has been a leading real estate professional since 2006, consistently providing her clients with personalized, one-on-one service from start to finish. With a background as a former business owner and accountant/ controller, she brings sharp financial expertise, innovative marketing strategies, and a client-first approach to every transaction.

"My clients always come first. Understanding their personal goals and needs is the heart of my business, and I believe that trust and communication are the foundation of a successful client-realtor relationship. I am truly honored to receive this recognition and grateful to my clients for their trust in me," says Fiorina.

"Danielle is a true professional who brings exceptional market knowledge, business acumen, and dedication to her clients every day. We are proud to have her on our team," adds Patricia Wojtyszyn, Broker/Owner of CENTURY 21 Crest Real Estate.

Make the right choice—work with a proven expert. Call Danielle Fiorina today at 973-460-4352 for all your real estate needs.

WRAPS

10.99

White | Whole Wheat | Gluten Free 1.50 | Order by number Add Avocado 3.00

#7 Chicken Caesar

grilled or breaded chicken, shaved parmesan, grated cheese, croutons & Caesar dressing

#8 Grilled Chicken

grilled chicken, arugula, fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers, and a side of balsamic vinaigrette #9 Eggplant

eggplant, arugula, fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers, and a side of balsamic vinaigrette #10 Buffalo Chicken

breaded buffalo chicken, lettuce, tomato, cheddar jack, and blue cheese or ranch

CHEESE 8.99

VEGGIE 14.99

CHEESE 8.99

VEGGIE 14.99

HAM 9.99

#11 Chicken Vodka

vodka sauce, breaded chicken, shredded mozzarella, pressed on the grill

#12 Chicken Bacon Ranch

breaded chicken, lettuce, tomato, provolone, bacon, red onion & ranch dressing

#25 Spicy Chicken Vodka 11.99

spicy vodka sauce, breaded chicken, shredded mozzarella, pressed on grill #27 Sweet Chili Chicken 11.99

sweet chili chicken, lettuce. tomato, red onion, ranch, cheddar jack, and cherry peppers

CALZONES

Served with marinara sauce

HAM 9.99

CHICKEN 13.99

STROMBOLI

MEATLOVERS 14.99

BUFFALO CHICKEN 14.99

Served with marinara sauce

CHICKEN 13.99

MEATLOVERS 14.99

TOPPINGS

CHEESESTEAK 13.99

PESTO CHICKEN 14.99

Bacon, Ham, Pepperoni, Salami, Meatballs, Sausage, White Onions, Fresh Mushrooms, Green Peppers, Pineapple, Jalapeños, Spinach, Broccoli, Basil, Garlic Grilled or Breaded Chicken 5.00 Eggplant 4.00

ENTRESS

Served over pasta or a side salad

Chicken Francese 19.99

Chicken Marsala 19.99

Eggplaht Rollantini 19.99

Shrimp Scampi 24.99

Chicken Scampi 19.99

PARMIGIANA

substitute vodka sauce $3 Chicken 19.99 Eggplant 19.99 Shrimp 24.99

Chicken Parm with Vodka 22.99

PASTA

Add Chicken 5.00 | Add Meatballs 2.50 each

Pasta Types: Penne, Spaghetti, Angel Hair, Rigatoni, Fettucine

Cheese Tortellini, Cavatelli, Gluten-Free Penne add 3.00 Cavatell

SAUCES

Vodka Sauce 17.99

Spicy Vodka Sauce 18.99

Pesto Sauce 17.99

Alfredo Sauce 17.99

Butter 13.99

Meat Sauce 17.99

Garlic & Oil 17.99

Marinara 13.99

Primavera 18.99

Baked Ziti (oven-baked pasta) 16.99

Add ricotta 3.00

Cavatelli & Broccoli 17.99

PIZZA

Small 12” Large 16”

Cheese Pizza 12.99 17.99 Sicilian Pizza N/A 20.99

Spaghetti & Meatballs 19.99

Cheese Tortellini with Vodka or Alfredo Sauce 20.99

Homemade Lasagna 15.99

Made with ground beef, mozzarella, and ricotta cheese

Gluten Free 14.99 N/A Bar Pies N/A 19.99 Extra thin, well done, sauce, and cheese all the way to edges

TOPPINGS

WHOLE PIE 3.50 | HALF PIE 1.75 Bacon, Ham, Pepperoni, Salami, Meatballs, Sausage, White Onions, Fresh Mushrooms, Green Peppers, Black Olives, Pineapple, Jalapeños, Spinach, Broccoli, Basil, Sliced Tomatoes, Garlic, Red Onions, Cherry Peppers

Eggplant Whole Pie 6.00 | Half Pie 3.00

Roasted Peppers Whole Pie 5.00 | Half Pie 2.50

Breaded Chicken Whole Pie 7.00 | Half Pie 3.50

Grilled Chicken Whole Pie 7.00 | Half Pie 3.50

SPECIALTY PIZZA

Small 12” Large 16”

Veggie 18.99 23.99

Spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, olives, onions, & green peppers

Meatlovers 18.99 23.99

Sausage, pepperoni, meatball, ham, and bacon

Hot Honey Pepperoni 17.99 22.99

Vodka sauce, pepperoni, mozzarella, and hot honey

Buffalo Chicken 20.99 25.99

Hot sauce, mozzarella, cheddar jack, breaded buffalo chicken, bleu cheese or ranch, and celery

Chicken Pesto 20.99 25.99

Pesto, grilled chicken, red onion, mozzarella, & chopped tomato

BBQ Chicken 20.99 25.99

BBQ chicken, red onion, mozzarella, cheddar jack, and ranch

Grandma N/A 25.99

Thin crust Sicilian with crushed tomatoes, olive oil, fresh garlic, basil, and fresh mozzarella

Drunken Grandma N/A 26.99

Thin crust - Sicilian with crushed tomatoes, vodka sauce, olive oil, fresh garlic, basil, and fresh mozzarella

Chicken Parm 19.99 24.99

Breaded chicken, mozzarella, and pizza sauce

White 15.99 20.99

Mozzarella and ricotta cheese

Margherita 15.99 20.99

Pizza sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil

Burrata & Crushed Tomato N/A 26.99

Thin crust Sicilian, Sicilian cheese base, crushed tomato, burrata, olive oil, basil, & Pecorino Romano

Spicy White 18.99 23.99

Ricotta cheese base, mozzarella cheese, crushed Calabrian chili peppers, oregano, and basil

BBQ Hawaiian 19.99 24.99

BBQ sauce base, ham, pineapple, red onion, mozzarella cheese, and bacon

Beesting Pizza N/A 26.99

Spicy vodka sauce base, Sicilian thin crust, mozzarella cheese, grande burrata, fresh jalapeno, and Mike’s hot honey

White Clam 23.99 28.99

Mozzarella cheese base, garlic, oil, chopped clams and extra pecorino Romano

CATERING

APPETIZERS

HALF TRAY FULL TRAY

$50.00-$100.00

Mac And Cheese Bites

Mozzarella Sticks

Chicken Fingers

Fried Calamari

$60-$120

Cheesy Bread

$45-$90

Wings Bone In Or Boneless

(50) $60.00-(100) $120.00

French Fries

Caprese Tray

$40.00-$80.00

$45.00-$90.00

fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, olive oil

SALADS

HALF

Burrata Caprese

Caesar Salad

Apple Salad

Desa’s Salad

House Salad

Mixed Berry

$60.00-$120.00

$40.00-$80.00

$50.00-$100.00

$40.00-$80.00

$50.00-$100.00

Antipasta Salad

$50.00-$100.00

ENTREES

Half tray: 15 pieces full tray: 30 pieces

$60.00 $120.00

Chicken Francese

Chicken Marsala

Chicken Scampi

Chicken Parmigiana

Shrimp Scampi

$70.00-$140.00

Over your choice of pasta

Mussels $55.00-$110.00

Sweet, medium, hot

Eggplant Rollatini

$60.00-$120.00

Eggplant filled with mozzarella cheese and ricotta cheese

Eggplant Parmigiana

$55.00-$110.00

PASTA

Half tray: 10 servings full tray: 20 servings

$50.00 $100.00

Penne Vodka

Fettuccine Alfredo

Cheese Ravioli

Cavatelli and Broccoli

Baked Ziti

Baked Meat Lasagna

Pasta with marinara

MEATBALLS & SAUSAGE

Half tray: 10 servings full tray: 20 serving Meatballs $50.00-$100.00 Topped with marinara

How to Prepare for a Lengthy Renovation Project

Home renovations can increase resale value and outfit spaces to make them more accommodating to residents. Homeowners interested in remodeling projects understand that such undertakings are often a lengthy process. But the time spent waiting often is well worth it when the work is done and the finished product looks just as homeowners imagined.

Depending on the scope and scale of a project, home renovations can take anywhere from a day or two for minor cosmetic changes to nine months for a major project. The lender RenoFi says projects like remodeling a kitchen or bathroom have a lot of moving parts, including plumbing and electrical work, structural changes, flooring, and installation of appliances. Due to that complexity, such projects may take six to 12 weeks. A home addition can take months. Homeowners weary of such lengthy undertakings can implement strategies to make conditions at home more manageable.

• Get a rough estimate from contractors so that you can budget accordingly. A project will go nowhere without proper funding. Get detailed estimates that include labor and building materials. Then start saving and stash money away for the project so you’re not caught off-guard later on.

• Clear out clutter. Remove any extraneous items from the room or rooms that will be remodeled. Although it will be an added expense, it is a good idea to rent a storage unit or have a storage pod placed in the driveway or yard for the duration of the project. Move items that will not be needed into the unit. This will get them out of the way and protect them from damage.

• Consider starting in warm weather. Contractors will be going in and out of the home each day, and doors and windows may need to be propped open. Schedule a project during those months when temperatures are more comfortable. If the project involves limited access to the kitchen to cook, utilizing an outdoor grill or kitchen is much easier when the weather is pleasant.

• Stay with relatives. While some people have no issues living in a residence during a renovation, others may find the work simply too inconvenient or distracting to be around. Time away from the property can help manage stress, and prevent kids, pets and others from getting in the way of work.

• Safeguard sensitive items. Take inventory of items in the home and catalog them for insurance purposes. This way you’re covered in the case of damage or theft. Remove documents, like birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and other private papers, and keep them in a safety deposit box or fireproof safe.

Home renovations may stretch on for weeks or months. However, with adequate preparation, homeowners can see such projects through without facing too much adversity.

their methods of creating showmanship.

“I've had many memorable performances over the years, including for the Mets and Yankees in their locker rooms in 1986.”

Wisch studied with Slydini for seven years, taking more than 120 lessons during that period.

“After 120 lessons with Tony, I developed a profound love and admiration for him, not only as a magician but also as a person and friend. It is an honor for me to present his lectures and share what I admire most about Tony Slydini.”

Wisch is the only person Slydini allowed to lecture on his original routines and techniques. Their close relationship has been celebrated and documented extensively within the magic community.

"The Slydini Legacy" is a series of detailed articles by Wisch that not only showcases Slydini’s magic but also highlights Wisch's unique bond with his friend, teacher, and mentor.

From 1997 to 2005, I co-founded The International Conservatory of Magic (ICOM). One of my contributions to the site was "Slydini - The Legacy," a series of thirty-four monthly articles published from September 1997 to December 2000.

“Now, 22 years later, I am opening them up to the broader magic community. Over the coming months, I will be posting selected installments for you to read. As Slydini's only officially authorized student to lecture or teach his magic, I am excited and thrilled to bring this to the magic audience. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoyed writing them.

Wisch is a recognized pioneer in the study of showmanship. He spent three years researching the careers of P.T. Barnum, George M. Cohan, Muhammad Ali, and Harry Houdini to discover what made them such great showmen. He developed and applied their common success principles into a one-man show, "The Magic Word is Showmanship," which he presented throughout the 1980s to sales and marketing divisions of many Fortune 500 companies, including IBM, Pfizer, M&M Mars, Minolta, Minwax, Delta, and Johnson & Johnson.

Wisch has since performed thousands of shows for parties, project graduations and

corporations and lectured over 600 times all over the United States and Canada. He performs regularly in the New York

“Approaching a person to do close-up magic is an art. When you are a hired performer (as many who read these blogs currently are and aspire to be) it is your job to approach the spectator.”

Magician-author Karl Fulves wrote that Slydini was the most influential figure in 20th-century Close-Up Magic. His theories, use of psychology, and misdirection created natural magic of the highest order, making his performances akin to real magic. “That sentiment," said former television talk show host Dick Cavett, "is the one most commonly expressed by anyone having the opportunity to actually see this great magician perform.

“During my 52-year career, I have had the honor of lecturing more than 600 times for my fellow colleagues in magic. I am always thrilled to share something they might be able to use in their routines, development, or learning.

Wisch is the only person Slydini gave permission to lecture on his original routines and techniques. Slydini's close relationship with Wisch has been widely written about and lauded within the magic community.

The Slydini Legacy is a series of in-depth articles written by Wisch that highlights the magic of Slydini and his special relationship with the man who was his friend, teacher, and mentor.

“When performing on a stage or platform, one of the biggest challenges is looking confident and feeling comfortable simultaneously. Beginner performers often overlook the importance of effectively using their legs and feet. There is nothing more disheartening than realizing too late during a performance that you haven't spent enough time considering how to stand and move. This is a sobering experience, and I know because I've been there!

Check out Wisch’s detailed explanation of the proper use of leg and foot placement on his website. Magician New Jersey Magician NJ|Bill Wisch Magicians New Jersey Magicians NJ NY

CIVIL WAR Abraham Ryerson

SPANISH AMERICAN WAR

William Green

Henry Hobbs

William Jennings

George Weber

WORLD WAR I

R.F. Aechbach

Otto Albert

Rev. Thomas Allen

John C. Alonge

Karl O. Amend

Axel Back

Alfons Basdoff

Charles Bertsch

Arnold Bott

Frank Bott

Ray Bowers

Daniel Brady

Fred Breitinger

George Breitinger

Charles Buchanan

Clarence Cobb

James Collins

Clem Cottrell

Albert J. Culkin

Walter Dallery

Harold DeHart

Arthur DeReyes

Wilfred J. Deslandes

Henri DeVries Sr.

William Dixon

Frank Doyle

Percy D. Falkinburg

Burt Fenty

James S. Flood

Randolf S. Freeman

William French Sr.

Harold Gassman

Dayton Geary

Louis Gigliotti

Edward C. Green

Sealy Hall

Henry Hanson

Edward Hauge

John J. Herlihy

Herbert Hoaglund

Roll Call of the Departed 2025

MeMorial Day Service May 26th 2025

Carey Hollister

Archie Holloway

Emmanual Hurtado

Sidney G. Inch

Rudolf Jamke

Daniel Jennings

Andrew Johnson

Christopher Kenney

Richard Kenney

Charles Kohns

Frank C. Lange Sr. Lyman Lockwood

Frank C. Loehr

Charles Loehr Sr.

Frank Lyman

James Macassey

Henry A. Martin

Earl Mabey

Benjamin McCreery

John McCroy

James McGrath F. McIntyre

Robert McKelly

Robert McKelvey

Clarence McMickle

Aaron McNeill

James S. Meehan

John H. Mirra

Jule Mitchell

Thad Mitchell

John Morris

Joseph Morris

Jerry Mottese

John O'Brien

Clifford Penz

Victor Pistolia

C. Dix Proctor

Norman Purvis

Miles Renninger

Michael Schouten

Albert Schriefer

Harry Schroeder

John Shaw

William Stager

Arthur L. Star Sr.

William E. Stevens

George A. Strasser

T.A. Taylor

Frederick Then

George R. Tholin

Robert G. Thompson

Charles Thoren

William Tyack

Floyd Vitale

Benjamin W. Ward

Leo Williams

Harry V. Wiltshire Sr.

Paul R. Wolfe

Herman Zapf

WORLD WAR II

George T. Adams

Audley Adkins

Louis Agranow

Louis Ahrendt

Rev. Richard Allen

Pasquale Antonelli

Nino Armato

Harry E. Bartsch

Frederick Baumann

Hans Becker

William Becker

Al Belluardo

Herbert Benjamin

Albert Bertucci

Edwin Besemer

William Bianchi

Francis Bignell

Ralph Blois

Stephen Borinski

Elmer Bott Sr.

Frank Bott

Marcel Bouroult

Alfred L. Bowers

James Boyle

William Bray Sr.

Garrett T. Bromley

Joseph Brotshol

James A. Brown

Joseph C. Bruno

Donald F. Bulger

John Bushman

George Busse

Roy Busse

Stanley L. Butka

George Cahill

Arland Cain Sr.

John P. Canning

Inez Carbone

Fred Chambers

William Christopherson

William P. Clark

George Cobb

Anthony Colavito

DeWayne Cole

Nick Colonis

Michael Colvin

John E. Connolly

Alexander Consalvo

James E. Cook

Wesley Cook

Joseph Coppola

William J. Costello

Russel A. Creathorne

Bruno Crotta

Joseph Cucci

Robert A. Cunningham

Anthony Cuzzi

Charles C. Cuzzi

Victor Daut

Austin Davis

Peter Davis

Louis Debiasio

Dorothy Decker

O. John Decker

Robert W. Decker

Mario DeLuca

Lawrence S. Derrick

Pasquale J. DeTollo

Stan DeWitt

Hendrick DeVries

Tice DeYoung

Nicholas DiCanio

Donald Diesel

Anthony DiGirolamo

Eugene DiMarinisi

John DiStefano

William A. Dixon

Fred Dobbs

John Dobbs

William M. Dobbs

James P. Dock Sr.

Edward M. Dombrowski

James E. Drury

Robert B. Edris

Edward Engasser

James Evans

Edward Farrell Sr.

Irving Fitzig

Robert Fletcher

Jack Floyd

Alfred Foerster

Lewis C. Fontan

Stanley Forys.

Basil Galgano

Robert Galt Jr

Arnold Garrison

Anthony Gatti

Edward Gentile

C. Robert Gerhard

Joseph Germanotta

Ernest Gilliland

Howard Gladding

Joseph C. Goodwin

Francis Gorman

Edward F. Gorski

Louis Grisetti

James Griswold

John Gross

Marilyn Grund

Warren Grund

Edward T. Gurka

Ethel Hawryschuk

Harry Hawryschuk

George Hayes

Robert Headley

James Hegybel

JACK supports President Trump

JACK CIATTARELLI has a commonsense plan to fix New Jersey.

CUT TAXES AND SPENDING

Make our state more affordable by capping property taxes and reducing the size and cost of government in Trenton.

STOP OVERDEVELOPMENT

Repeal low-income housing mandates that are overdeveloping and overburdening our suburban towns and schools.

FIGHT ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION End Phil Murphy’s Sanctuary State for illegal immigrants and ban any New Jersey town from being a Sanctuary City.

KEEP OUR COMMUNITIES SAFE

Appoint a law-and-order Attorney General who restores parental rights and takes the handcuffs off our police so they can keep us safe.

Learn more about Jack’s plan by scanning here

Usage of over-thecounter headache medicines might be widely associated with adults, but children get headaches as well, and parents may wonder if youngsters can lean on the same remedies their parents look to when seeking relief. Nationwide Children’s Hospital notes rest and relaxation

is the best way to treat a headache, but parents also can utilize OTC medications like ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®), acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or naproxen (Aleve®) to help mitigate the symptoms of headache in children. Children’s versions of popular OTC headache medicines such as Motrin® can be utilized. Parents are

urged to read all product labels and speak with their children’s pediatricians before administering children’s headache medicines. Such discussions are particularly important before giving older kids and adolescents OTC medications that are not designated as children’s remedies.

from page 34

made this flight 110 years before the Wright brothers first powered flight in 1903.

Even the majestic eagles that glided over the countryside of New Jersey were dwarfed by this apparition that skimmed the treetops and gently settled down into a pasture.

To cover the cost of his trip Blanchard began charging five dollars apiece, an astronomical sum of money in those days. However, on the day of his trip, speculators crowded into the nearby space to watch the event unfold.

As this huge round ball with a wicker basket hanging below the balloon approached the Earth the farmer below must have been shacking in his boots at the shear terror he was feeling. He dropped his tools and rushed across the field through thickets and brambles toward the landing spot.

Blanchard was no stranger to balloons. His best-known accomplishment to date was t0 be the first ever to fly across the English Channel in 1785. The quest to conquer the channel continued through the early days of flight. When powered flight became popular several men attempted to cross the English Channel and lost their lives. French man Louis Bleriot was the first human to survive such a flight in 1909. He was followed by Harriet Quimby, the first woman to fly the Channel, in 1912.

In the morning right after a typical American breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, corn bread and black coffee Blanchard headed for the takeoff point, he was ready to fly. Blanchard began preparation for his hot air balloon ascension. Throughout the morning cannons were fired. As

they approach the takeoff hour a band began to play.

A large crowd had gathered in the yard of the Walnut Street prison, in Philadelphia. Since Philadelphia was at the time the capital of the newly formed states, and President George Washington was present.

One of the reasons to hold the ascension inside the prison walls was to give the paying customers a front row seat and keep the unpaid people away from this event. The French ambassador was also present for the historic event. Washington wrote a note and handed it to Blanchard in the prison yard. The crowd was excited to see not only Blanchard but the President as well to watch a great event. The letter the American said was a note to whom ever Blanchard first came across upon landing.

As his balloon rose, Blanchard could see the swiftly running Delaware river below him and he must have both wondered and concerned that below him was either fame or a bad outcome. He also wondered at the beauty of the countryside below him.

Washington’s letter of guarantee of safe passage seems to have vanished. Too bad. The first air mail in American history would have been worth a fortune to collectors.

As the balloon rose, he began the tasks that the scientist had requested. The scientist wanted samples of air, the use magnets for testing and capturing air in the bottle, and recording his pulse. Less than an hour later (41 minutes) the balloon, encouraged by friendly breezes landed in a pasture in Deptford County, New Jersey.

It was a moment that even this uneducated farmer could recognize as history-making. As he watched the huge cov-

Great Golf & The Beer Garden!

on page 36

ering atop the basket began settling to the ground. While Blanchard tugged on the guy wires, his little black dog ran around barking in excitement.

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cont. from page 35

The farmer was later to confirm that the event actually did happen. The daring young Blanchard the French balloonist who had just completed the first manned flight in the western hemisphere.

It was a delicate moment. The balloonist shouted a welcome in a foreign language. The farmer did not understand, and Blanchard showed him a letter which he might just as well not have seen in any language because the farmer could not understand.

No such event could have gone unnoticed in this tiny community of Deptford, where he landed. Within minutes the two were joined by neighbors. The people were curious, and more neighbors rushed to the scene. Suddenly a man showed up waving a pistol.

But there was no violence. Fortunately. the armed man had the ability to read and write and he triumphantly announce that the letter was from none other than President George Washington.

In Blanchard’s handwriting in his journal, he wrote a description of the moment.

“‘In the midst of profound silence, it was read with a loud and audible voice. How dear the name of Washington is to these people. With such eagerness they gave me all possible assistance in consequence of his recommendation”.

The welcome party learned that the balloonist had traveled from Philadelphia, more than 15 miles away, and in less than an hour. The dangerous trip would have taken three or four hours by carriage or horse back through to the rushing Delaware river.

After his record-setting flight the diminutive Frenchman was able to support himself and his family using his fleet of balloons for the next eight years. Blanchard had triumphed in America with his first ever flight to New Jersey, but frustration followed. He was never able to raise enough money to support another flight in America and he decided to go back the France.

While on a flight over Paris, tragedy struck, in 1808. Blanchard suffered a heart attack in flight and fell unconscious in his gondola. His balloon landed roughly on its own and amazingly, Blanchard was uninjured in the fall. But his health declined rapidly after the attack, and he died in Paris on March 7, 1808.

The place where Jean Pierre Blanchard landed near Bib Tinder Creek in Deptford Township, is marked by a bronze plaque which proclaims that his epic aerial voyage in 1793 brought the age of flight to America and the Garden State.

When the Tide..

cont. from page 15

Counselor failed me. However, he took it one step further. In front of about 20 other scouts, he told me that I was wasting his time. That I would never be a good enough swimming to earn the Swimming Merit Badge.

To say that I was devastated, is an understatement. You see, back in 1969, a scout was required to earn the Swimming Merit Badge in order to become an Eagle Scout. I was crushed, hurt and defeated. That night, after being humiliated by Merit Badge Counselor, Dad had a serious talk with me in my bedroom. I had been sitting at my little desk, after supper, crying my

Precious Moment...Assistant Scoutmaster Jack Floyd pinned my Eagle Scout medal to my scout uniform. Dad stood by me, while Assistant Scoutmaster Andrew Janosko stood by Dad.

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When the Tide.. cont. from page 36 eyes out. Dad came into my bedroom and told me not to give up. To never, ever give up.

My father was a longdistance truck driver. He was tough as nails, with a heart of gold. I will never forget his moment in time. As I sat at my desk, tears flowing down my cheeks, Dad put his right hand upon my left shoulder. Dad prayed for God to comfort my heart. Dad also prayed that I would find the inner strength to keep trying to earn my Swimming Merit Badge.

What unfolded in the weeks ahead, back in September of 1969, was nothing short of a miracle. I joined the Paterson YMCA and began taking swimming lessons in their heated, indoor pool. A young woman named Lisa was my swimming teacher. Aside from my Monday evening class, Lisa saw that I needed personal instruction to become a good swimmer. For about two months, Lisa and I would meet at the

Paterson YMCA indoor pool and Lisa would personally teach me the basic elements to be a good swimmer.

Lisa was in her sophomore year at Paterson State College. Simply put, I adored her. I convinced Lisa to sign up as a Swimming and Lifesaving Merit Badge Counselor. Lisa had a very kind and compassionate heart, but she was also all so tough on me. I truly earned both of those merit badges. By September of 1970, I had earned the Swimming and Lifesaving Merit Badges.

I was never to see dear, sweet, kind Lisa ever again.

In December of 1970, Boy Scout Troop 170 held a big dinner in my honor, when I was pinned an Eagle Scout.

I believe, without a doubt, God placed it into Lisa’s heart to help me, to teach me, to guide me to become a fairly good swimmer. Where my first Swimming Merit Badge Counselor saw me as a hopeless case, God brought Lisa into my life, to help me

become a good swimmer. Whatever challenges you are facing, no matter how dark it may look, regardless of how much the tides have turned against you, please know that God loves you more than you will ever know. God will bring someone into your life, to help you climb out of the well, no matter how deep it may be. God will guide you to find the inner strength to fight back and once again, ride the wild horse on the open prairie. You were created by a most loving God. Never, ever give up! Never surrender! Never give into feelings of hopelessness. Never give up hope! Always remember, God loves you more than you will ever know! Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has had two books published. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ gmail.com.