MOUNT OLIVE LIFE
Budd Lake Mom Turns Art into Path for Healing & Wellness
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
MOUNT OLIVE - By using her creativity and artistic talent, a local mom aims at coaching others to lead healthier lives.
Perri O’Flynn, 50, of Budd Lake, is creating portraits of individuals and families on canvas and other materials.
A stay-at-home mom/nanny and retired elementary school teacher, O’Flynn’s boys are now 20 and 18 which means she has more time on her hands to create and follow her passion.
While she is still deciding on a title of her initiative, which she began in May, she is thinking maybe going with “Inside Out.”
She says, “My initiative of sharing my art with others is to help me raise money for a Liv Well Health Coach certification,” through a Christian organization.
“A Liv Well Health Coach will help others toward transformation, which can be Christ centered,” she explains. “A coach leads others to a life of health and wholeness by giving them tools and confidence they need. It is a program that is grounded on biblical principles. As a coach, I will teach them how to live in alignment with God’s design for their bodies while offering practical strategies for lasting change for themselves. I am open to creating whatever my client is looking for.”
She explains the motivation behind her passion.
“I am doing this to help people in the community learn how to use physical, spiritual and mental health practices to lead themselves into pursuing a life of wholeness,” says O’Flynn. “I feel that people are missing
a big piece in their health care. Most programs focus on one specific outcome. This program will focus on a person’s whole entire body, including their minds!”
Art Background
O’Flynn has enjoyed art most of her life, and although she did not get her degree in art, her natural ability flows through her.
“I’ve loved art and creating since I was a child,” says O’Flynn. “I have taken many different art classes my whole life. I’ve taken many structured classes in studios and online that range from watercolor, acrylics, mixed media to photography. In college I took classes that focused on teaching art and bringing art into the classroom.”
O’Flynn got her degree in elementary/early childhood ed-
ucation and minored in art for a short time at Kutztown University and Marygrove College.
“Art and creativity were integrated into many classes I took,” she adds.
For her current initiative, O’Flynn uses photographs to create on canvas.
“I create art using mixed media and any mementos the family may like to add,” she explains. “I work closely with the client to ensure that every little detail is added to their piece. Their piece can be of an individual or family.”
O’Flynn explains how she uses various mediums.
“I don’t really have a specialized area, but I find that I add a different twist on art by using different materials in my paintings,” she says. “I can add
Community, Commitment, and Faith Bring Historic Church Back to Life
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
MOUNT OLIVE - Volunteers and officials who helped pave the way to transform the former Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Flanders gathered on Saturday, June 7, at the historic site to dedicate and celebrate their achievement.
A week prior, Mt. Olive Twp. Mayor Joe Nicastro issued a proclamation at the May 27 Mt. Olive Twp. Council meeting recognizing the historic church and Mt. Olive Township. HE presented the proclamation to Historical Society President Thea Dunkle for her time and commitment toward the project. The group effort that involved numerous grants and matching funds spanned more than two decades.
The event was attended by community leaders, dignitaries and residents who came together to honor the church’s remarkable legacy spanning
over 270 years, celebrate the church’s historical significance and ongoing role in enriching community life.
From Playgroup to Pillar, Fun-N-Friends Fabulous at 40
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
Remarks were shared by invited guests including Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko; Assemblyman Mike Inganamort; Commissioner John Krickus; Mt. Olive Councilman John Mania; Pastor Neil Lines; Margaret Hickey and Thea Dunkle.
AREA - The winners from June’s “Find Mr. MO the Mascot” are Andrea Zielinski; Hackettstown, Arav luthra; Flanders, Susan Marie Leone; Flanders and Deborah Shepherd; Budd Lake. The ads that “Mr. Moe” were in: Nicastro, Minuteman, V&V Construction, Mountain Top Church, ETGI and Functional Chiropractic. Thanks to everyone who enter and congratulations to our winners!
“The Mt. Olive Baptist Church’s history is a testament to the resilience, faith, and dedication of our community,” said Nicastro.
“The township’s recognition affirms the church’s vital role as a beacon of faith, education, and community service for over two centuries,” as stated in a press release. “The celebration underscores the importance of preserving our local history and honoring the longstanding contributions of our community institutions.”
Shares Tatarenko, “Today marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to preserve Mt. Olive’s past. What you see today is the culmination of decades of vision, meticulous planning and tireless dedication from countless volunteers and professionals.”
When Tatarenko became the business administrator almost eight years ago, he says “continuing the progress of this restoration became a professional goal. Walking in the building for the first time, I was admittedly a bit overwhelmed by the scope of work ahead. But thanks to the remarkable partnership we forged with the Mt. Olive Historical Society, the insightful architects at Connelly and Hickey, the support from the Morris County Historical Trust and the commitment of the Mt. Olive Governing Body,
we were able to navigate the challenges and bring this project to its completion. To each and every one of you who contributed your time, talent, and passion, I offer my deepest gratitude.”
Tatarenko invited members of the Mt. Olive Historical Society—Thea Dunkle and Kathleen Murphy—to say a few words; as well as architects from Connolly & Hickey Historical Architects, Tom Connelly and Margert Hickey, “who provided tremendous professional oversight and guidance throughout the entire length of this project.
“Mt. Olive couldn’t have done this alone,” says Tatarenko. “Along with spending approximately $500K from the Townships Open Space Fund, we relied heavily on our partnership with Morris County and the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust who graciously granted the township over $1.1 million toward this project since 2003.”
Krikus presented the Historic Preservation Plaque which will be attached to the building.
“I am honored to present this plaque on behalf of Morris County for a project more than 20 years in the making,” says Krikus. “The structure’s restoration reflects the value we place on heritage and community, and we’re proud to have supported every major phase of PLEASE SEE HISTORIC CHURCH, PAGE 6
MOUNT OLIVE - Fun-NFriends—Its name alone describes its philosophy and premise, from its early beginnings to its 40th anniversary!
Officially licensed by the State of New Jersey on March 24, 1985, Fun-N-Friends Nursery School in Flanders is celebrating its milestone four-decade anniversary this year. Ran by three different directors over the years, each made it a priority to maintain the school’s foundation of promoting kindness, caring and safety.
Shaping young minds and developing their skills has been paramount. Making friends and supporting the community has been its backbone.
“For four decades, Fun-NFriends Nursery School has been shaping young minds with care, creativity and community spirit,” writes Fun-N-Friends Director Shirley Keegan of Flanders. “The school-wide motto, ‘kind, caring, and safe,’ is embraced by both students and staff, fostering a warm atmosphere.”
The preschool began in 1980 as a small playgroup designed to serve the needs of the United Presbyterian Church, Keegan explains its history.
“With just 12 children enrolled, it quickly became a cherished part of the community,” she says.
Five years later, under the leadership of its founding Director Kathy Coogen, the preschool was officially licensed by the state in March 1985. Coogen also served as president
of the Board of Directors before passing the torch to Kolleen Adams, who guided the school as director for more than 30 years until her retirement in 2019.
That was when Keegan took the ropes, climbing her way up from when she began there in 2004 as classroom teacher, then head teacher before becoming the director.
“I have always been most comfortable working with children,” says Keegan. “My husband and I started our family early and have three children and now three grandchildren of our own!”
After earning a bachelor’s in business administration, Keegan obtained a N.J. State Certification in Early Childhood for head teacher and director.
“The idea was to make use of my business degree and merge it with early childhood education,” shares Keegan. “I love the balance of business and education! I have been in the field for over 34 years.” Being at Fun-N-Friends for the past 22 years, Keegan has seen its growth and accomplishments.
“Today, Fun-N-Friends has grown to serve over 100 children, offering half-day programs for ages 2½ to 6,” writes Keegan. “The preschool helps children develop the skills needed for a smooth and confident transition into kindergarten. There is a well- balanced combination of academic learning with the benefits of play-based
Mt. Olive Historian Thea Dunkle, Mt. Olive Township Administrator Andrew Tatarenko, Mt. Olive Councilman John Mania, Mt. Olive Mayor Joe Nicastro, Assemblyman Mike Inganamort and Morris County Commissioner John Krickus.
PLEASE SEE PATH FOR HEALING, PAGE 4
may be the solution to that question!
General
Cosmetic Dentistry: Resin Veneers
Dr.
To start, a veneer is a thin coating of material that is bonded to your own teeth. They can eliminate gaps, straighten crooked teeth, and brighten your smile. They are a great way to “freshen-up” aging teeth and rejuvenate them. The traditional material is porcelain, while this article will discuss resin. Porcelain is stronger, more durable, and more resistant to discoloration over time. Resin may require more maintenance and will wear down faster. It will discolor more than porcelain will, but not in the short term. What is resin? Resin is also known as composite. Think of it as a plastic. When you have
a white filling placed by your dentist, they are using resin. It is a pliable material that hardens when a blue light is applied and activates it.
The main reason why patients will opt for resin veneers over porcelain veneers is cost. They are approximately onehalf of the investment. So you can still walk away with a gorgeous new smile for half of the money! Just note the trade-off is potentially more maintenance with time, and a higher chance of darkening years down the road.
Another advantage of resin veneers over porcelain is the number of appointments: porcelain veneers require 2
Support in Spirit: Fire Chaplain Position Moves Up In Rank
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
MOUNT
OLIVE - In Mt. Olive, courage wears many uniforms—and now, among them, one will quietly carry the weight of spiritual care.
Mt. Olive Twp. now has an official position for a fire chaplain.
The Mt. Olive Twp. Council approved ordinance #15 on second reading at its June 17 meeting which establishes the fire chaplain position as a volunteer position without rank. The individual will work under the supervision of the Mt. Olive Twp. Fire and EMS Director or other designee.
The ordinance makes the position formal within the township, mentions Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko at the May 27 meeting.
“This is not a new position and has been in place however not established under an ordinance,” explains Tyler C. Wargo, assistant treasurer,
Fire & Ems Director of Mt. Olive Twp. “It’s always been a position within our fire departments and is just an added element that makes Mt. Olive Township Emergency Services a step above.”
Continues Wargo, “There has been a chaplain, just not recognized by ordinance within Mt. Olive Township and both the mayor, business administrator, and I all feel this is a vital role/position for all our emergency services providers and thus why the ordinance has been established.”
According to the ordinance, fire chaplains will be appointed by the mayor with the advice and consent of the council.
Up to four chaplains may be appointed at any given time with each appointment for a one-year term and evaluated yearly, says Wargo. “Our chaplains provide services that include funeral
details, critical incident stress debrief and support, residents support faced with trauma or fatality, in addition to prayer services,” explains Wargo.
This is a non-paid volunteer position. The chaplain for Fire & EMS also has provided chaplain services for the police department.
Any person appointed as a chaplain shall be an ordained clergyperson in good standing in the religious body from which selected, the ordinance states. The fire chaplain will assist the Mt. Olive Fire Department in any duties assigned by the fire and EMS director such as fire initiatives and death notifications, as suggested in the ordinance.
In times of loss, crisis, or simply the need for a compassionate ear, the fire chaplain will stand ready—not with a hose or helmet, but with hope and healing.
FLANDERS/CHESTER
appointments, while resin requires only one. There are times additional procedures will be necessary before veneers can be performed, whether porcelain or resin. Cavities, damage to other teeth, and infections are examples.
The transformations we see in people’s lives from the results provided by veneers is one reason why we love providing this service for our patients. Reasons abound why patients undergo the treatment: increase self-confidence, improve social relationships, or increase employment opportunities.
Patients who would not be candidates for veneers include people who currently have crowns or multiple fillings, periodontal (gum) disease, and poor oral hygiene. Whitening might be an alternative.
New Patient Special FREE Implant, Cosmetic, or General Dentistry Consultation
If you would like a personal, generalized assessment to see if you’d be a candidate for veneers, give us a call and schedule a consultation with Dr. Goldberg. We’d be more than happy to listen to your goals and discuss additional details with you!
About the author: Dr. Ira Goldberg has been a dentist for 30 years, and maintains an ex-
tremely well-respected practice in Succasunna, NJ. He performs general dentistry procedures, cosmetic procedures, as well as dental implant procedures. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant Dentistry, a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, and a Scholar of the Dawson Academy for Complete Dentistry. He is also a lecturer in the field of implantology. To schedule a consultation, please call his office at (973) 328-1225 or visit his website at www.MorrisCountyDentist.com
Dr. Goldberg is a leading expert on dental implants. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry, which is a degree held by only 1% of dentists worldwide. Whether you require a single implant or complex full-mouth rehabilitation, a free consultation with Dr. Goldberg should be considered.
General & Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Goldberg treats entire families, from toddlers to seniors. Services include cleanings, check-ups, fillings, Invisalign, dentures, cosmetics, and more! He and his staff enjoy the long-term relationships they build with their patients.
FAGD, DICOI
Path for Healing...
in person. If they would like to add something personal to it, a thumbprint or paint something on it themselves, we would meet a few times.”
As far as her customer base, O’Flynn does not have any restrictions except for being “open about what they are looking for and open to my creative style. I will figure out how to make anything possible.”
details and time needed. It can range from $25-$200.
“My art can be as small as 4x4 and as large as 20x16,” she adds. “I am not limited to creating on a canvas. I have made wood ornaments with individuals and families on them. I am open to what my client is interested in. I use paint, napkins, papers, glitter, sheet music, programs from events, tassels.... really anything!”
Her process and technique are tailored to meet the needs of each client.
“It really depends what they are looking for and how much they want to be involved,” she says. “It can be as simple as sending me a photo and a description of what they are looking for or I can meet with them
As far as time to complete a project, O’Flynn says “It could take between two to eight hours or more. It all depends on the detail of the project. It also depends on how well my creative brain is working.”
As far as a goal, O’Flynn will create as many projects as possible.
“I am leaving that up to what I am meant to do,” she replies.
“If I had to pick a goal to help meet my needs for funding my classes, I would say 10-20 pieces. I’ve completed many pieces, but as far as “portraits” about 10. This includes individuals and angels in heaven!”
As an artist and a creator, O’Flynn enjoys “adding joy to someone’s life, by capturing
Fun-N-Friends...
learning.”
At Fun-N-Friends, children are taught in a structured classroom setting while also promoting independent choice time.
“Each day provides opportunities for students to explore, discover, create and think critically in a nurturing and engaging environment,” writes Keegan.
At Fun-N-Friends, students also learn at a very young age to be kind and give back to their community.
“Community involvement is a cornerstone of the Fun-NFriends experience,” shares Keegan. “Families generously participate in food and coat drives, and the beloved annual St. Jude Trike-a-Thon shows how “kids helping kids” is more than just a saying.”
Alongside Keegan, is Shari Campbell, the administrative assistant, who began as a teaching assistant in 2002.
“With more than 20 years of dedication each, both bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the school,” writes Keegan. “Together with a devoted staff, they ensure every child—
and family—feels valued and supported.”
Not one day goes by where they do not have fun nor value the element of surprise.
“Every day can be different!” describes Keegan. “Our job description is certainly unique! Kids are unpredictable and keep all of us on our toes!
“The school works around fun themes,” she shares. “We love to celebrate holidays, incorporate special events and activities such as the Halloween Trick-or-Trunk, annual Thanksgiving feast, pretend carnival day, magic shows, spring fling with our parents and more.
“Rotating our events year to year keeps things exciting and the staff take on the challenge to do something different,” she continues. “The staff work together as a unit and support each other as family. We have a great relationship with our preschool families.”
Together, they take an interest in their students and incorporate engaging lessons and hands-on-learning.
“The staff at Fun-NFriends wants your child to
precious memories on a canvas. I also love hearing about others’ lives and their special moments and family/friends in their lives. I love creating. It brings me to another world, while I can add color and fun to others.”
Her end goal is to “use my proceeds to pay for my health and wellness certification through a program entitled Revelation Wellness.”
Offered through a Christian organization, the program is focused on “getting people to stop believing the lies and live in true freedom,” she explains. “It’s getting people to know that there is more to health and wellness that just chasing a number on the scale. It’s an organization that is here to stop you from getting caught up in the same old lies and wasting time and money on the latest fads.
“Their mission is to help you transform your entire self so you can feel confident, well, and ready to live out the calling God has placed on your life,” she continues. “They guide you into living out your faith while getting healthy and whole. They do this through workouts,
be excited about school every day!” says Keegan. “We are a strong believer that children learn by doing! When a child actively participates in the learning process, they are fully engaged. We promote hands-on learning using our well stocked supply of manipulatives such as counters, links, beads, cubes, playdough, spinners, dice, chalk boards, magnet trays and more. Scavenger hunts, games and fun experiments make the learning process more meaningful, so your child is able to retain the information more easily. They learn to communicate and to work together as a team. We encourage being kind, caring and safe on a daily basis. Challenge your child, you will be surprised what they are capable of doing!”
While they plan ahead, FunN-Friends staff are ready to handle the unexpected, and perhaps that is the key to their fun.
“We keep things fun by being flexible,” says Keegan. “We have a structured schedule, but going off task for a bit is ok! If a child has a funny story, we listen. Sometimes everyone needs to just get up, move and be sil-
teachings, podcasts. Their programs range from chair classes to walking a marathon. They have a library full of classes from meditation, creating habits, book clubs to science lessons. There is something for everyone.”
O’Flynn wants to share this with others.
“I want to lead others in physical, mental and spiritual practices through pursuing a wholehearted faith and life of balance and transformation,” she says.
“I feel called to become a coach because I feel it is a new approach to wellness that can help/benefit anyone and everyone, no matter what age, size, or health conditions or limitations they may have,” she continues. “Right now, my goals are to reach those that are looking for a new approach to wellness, an inside out approach. This approach is counter intuitive to most programs out there. I am not exactly sure what this will look like. It may be free coffee meetups, walks, yoga in the park, really praying about it and will see where I am lead.”
ly and the staff will join in. The kids share fun facts with us on a daily basis that makes us laugh and that alone makes our day!”
The school even found a fun way to recognize its 40th anniversary.
“In celebration of our 40th anniversary, Fun-N-Friends is going blue!” announces Keegan. “We have changed our school colors. Each child received a new blue school shirt to match our chairs, logo and awning. The kids helped create our 40th anniversary photo. We used a drone to snap the image in our field. Everyone will receive a car magnet and new school tote bag (blue!) in the fall. Our graduates will receive a special edition yearbook for graduation.”
While there are other preschools out there, Keegan pro-
In her spare time, outside of being a wife and a mom, O’Flynn works as a nanny for three “wonderful families” and occasionally does dog walking jobs.
To sign up for a portrait or creative piece of art, call O’Flynn at 973-945-7482.
motes why Fun-N-Friends may be the best choice.
“We have been shaping young minds for over 40 years in Mt. Olive,” explains Keegan. “Fun-N-Friends is an established and thriving preschool. We place an emphasis on being a kind and caring person. Our curriculum is well-balanced and challenges children to think outside the box. We promote independence, creativity and a healthy self-image. Everyone is different and everyone is important. Your child is the foundation to the future and our preschool is here to help make that foundation strong in every way!
“Fun-N-Friends remains a vibrant part of the Mt. Olive community, with generations of families returning year after year,” adds Keegan. “Its legacy
“I am very excited to start this new journey in helping others live a more fulfilling, healthy and balanced life,” she concludes. “I really enjoy getting to know people, their stories and their dreams and goals.”
is not only in the lessons taught, but in the lasting memories made.”
As a parent herself, Keegan respects that families need to evaluate which preschool works best for their children.
“Find the preschool that works for your family,” she advises. “Ask your questions, take a tour and find out what your community is saying about the schools you are looking into. Word of mouth is the best type of advertising and sometimes the most useful. Current families and alumni that have experienced the preschool and will know the answers you are looking for!”
For more information, visit www.funnfriends.com or email Keegan at funnfriendsupc@yahoo.com
Visiting Scout Enhances Mt. Olive Trails with Benches
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
projects to improve its parks and trails.
Bryan Duffy, 17, hails all the way from Lincoln Park and recently built benches along the Budd Lake Vista Trail. A junior at Boonton High School, Duffy has been a member of Boy Scout Troop 76 of Lincoln Park for the past seven years.
Under this troop leader Robert Neuhaus, Duffy and another 17-year-old scout completed the project just last month. They began working on it on May 23 and just finished it on June 8.
With just five days of work, the two teens built and installed 10 Leopold benches for the Mt. Olive outdoor space complex
“They are Leopold design benches inspired by Aldo Leopold’s conservation work,” adds David Alexander, secretary of Mt. Olive Twp. Open Space Advisory Board. “You can sit both ways and use the backrest as a support for writing or bird watching or other nature study.”
Adds Duffy, “Three benches have been placed; the other seven are waiting to be placed by park volunteers.”
Anyone who walks along the White Trail near the Gold Mine entrance should take notice of these new benches.
“This project benefits the community by providing a place to relax and enjoy scenic overlook,” says Duffy. “I picked this project due to my enjoyment of the outdoors and wanting to help revive trail systems to get more people back outdoors and enjoying nature.”
In addition to feeling satisfied that he completed his proj-
ect, Duffy receives some merit.
“This project allows me to receive my Eagle Merit Badge,” he adds.
He is grateful to the others who helped him along the way.
“I had many volunteers and coaches through this project,” he says. “Many of my friends were main contributors for helping to pick up materials building the benches and delivering the benches. Friends’ parents helped spread the word to help me collect donations.”
While he lives out of town, Duffy can feel proud that when he visits the Mt. Olive Trails, he will know that he had a seat on its bench!
“This project brought me great enjoyment and happiness being able to provide back to the community and able to open areas to more people in the community,” he shares.
With that, there was “No out-of-pocket money was used, and funds were filled though donations,” he adds. “I collected donations from the community and received discounts from local stores such as Ace and Home Depot.”
Historic Church...
its renewal.” Adds Tatarenko, “Our state and federal legislators have always been a tremendous help and support in all of our initiatives,” as he invited Inganamort to say a few words.
Church History
The church is a contributing resource in the Mt. Olive Village Historic District, which is listed on both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places, according to a Morris County press release.
A proclamation celebrating the church’s enduring presence and contributions to the community was on display at the dedication. It highlighted the
church’s founding in 1753, its early donation of land in 1768, its origins as a branch of the Church of Morristown, various name changes, its resilience through challenges such as the storm in 1950 that claimed its steeple and its transformation over the centuries into a vital center of faith and fellowship.
The 1855 stone church is the third house of worship to stand on the site since the Mt. Olive congregation’s founding in 1753. It is associated with the settlement of the area before the Revolutionary War and the emergence of the village of Mt. Olive from that time through the middle of the 19th century.
The site’s early history be-
gan in 1768, when James Heaton donated an acre of land for a meetinghouse, schoolhouse and burial ground. A second building was erected in 1809 and shared by Baptist and Presbyterian congregations.
It was originally established as a branch of the Church of Morristown, with its congregation evolving through multiple names and denominations over the years including Roxbury Church and Schooley’s Mountain Church. It was officially designated Mt. Olive Baptist Church in 1890.
In 1855, the Baptist community constructed the current church, which underwent major renovations in 1870 and
Mayor Visits Camp Deeney Riback
MOUNT
OLIVE - On June
12, 2025, Mayor Nicastro had the pleasure of visiting Camp Deeney Riback (CDR), reaffirming the camp’s vital role in our community. Nestled on a scenic 40-acre wooded campus in Flanders, NJ, CDR offers a unique blend of traditional summer camp experiences and inclusive programming for children of all backgrounds.
1895, including the installation of a tin ceiling, a new roof and a rebuilt pulpit. A storm in 1950 destroyed the steeple, which was never replaced. The building ceased to use regular worship in the late 1960s and later served as a gathering place for community groups such as the Boy Scouts.
Although worship services moved to a newer building in the 1980s, the original church remained a treasured piece of the township’s heritage.
Mt. Olive Township acquired the building and adjacent cemetery in 2003 for $175K and, in partnership with the Mt. Olive Historical Society, launched a long-term effort to restore the site, securing grants and private donations including $25,000 from the congregation’s pastor Rev. Lyons, to restore and protect this landmark.
In the early 2000s, the original Baptist Church was officially added to the Historical Registry, solidifying its status as a cherished landmark of cultural and historical significance, as stated in the proclamation. Despite challenges, efforts to revitalize the church con-
tinued and were completed in 2024. The work included restoration of the tower, standing seam metal roof, stucco, windows, exterior doors, new front entrance, first-floor framing and wood flooring, new utilities, lighting & HVAC, stabilization of existing painted fabric ceiling & historic paint scheme and new restroom. Restoration efforts funded through the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund totaled $1,102,176, according to a Morris County press release. A rare trompe l’oeil ceiling cloth from the 1870s—an uncommon example of 19th century interior decorative painting in New Jersey churches—was also uncovered and preserved.
“The Township of Mt. Olive hereby recognizes the Baptist Church as a treasured historic site, honoring its journey from its founding in 1753 to its role today as a symbol of resilience and remembrance within our community and we celebrate the dedication of all those who have worked tirelessly to preserve this remarkable landmark, ensuring its story endures for generations to come,”
as stated in the proclamation.
“This has been a 23-to-24year project for us,” comments Dunkle at the council meeting when receiving the proclamation. “We are so glad that it’s finally coming to fruition.”
Only invited guests were invited to the church dedication on Flanders Drakestown Road as there is limited space. All attendees took a shuttle from the municipal building the morning of the service. She says the plan will be to open the church to groups of 50 people so they can see the improvements up close.
“We are limited on space,” says Dunkle. “It’s been a great endeavor.”
She is so thankful to the council, mayor and preservation trust and architects for their support over the years.
“We are truly grateful for your efforts throughout the years,” concludes Dunkle.
Next steps will be to provide parking so visitors can access the building, and a future project will be to restore the one room schoolhouse that sits adjacent to the property.
During the visit, Mayor Nicastro toured the campgrounds, which include access to nearby Budd Lake for boating and outdoor activities and observed the vibrant energy of campers and staff engaged in a variety of activities such as color war, camp musical productions, and leadership programs. The mayor was especially impressed by CDR’s dedication to fostering a safe, nurturing environment where children can develop essential “Super Skills”—critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration.
tinues to provide memorable summers filled with growth, friendship, and fun.
Camp Deeney Riback is renowned as the premier Jewish day camp in Morris and Essex counties, proudly welcoming all children regardless of background. With four distinct camp programs and leadership initiatives designed for children from age 3 through entering 10th grade, CDR con-
“Our community’s youth deserve enriching experiences that promote learning, inclusion, and joy,” Mayor Nicastro said during his visit. “Camp Deeney Riback exemplifies these ideals and has served as a cornerstone of summer activity for over 50 years.”
Since its founding in 1970, more than 20,000 campers have called CDR home, and the camp’s commitment to inclusion and excellence remains unwavering.
Pictured are: Robin Gold, Assistant Director, Dana Gottfried, Camp Director, Mayor Nicastro and Sara Simon, Operations Director
Cat Rescue in Mt. Olive Still Purring, Sweet Duo Awaiting Adoption
MOUNT OLIVE - The population of feral and stray cats in Mt. Olive has been reduced greatly over the years but every now and then there are some cats and kittens looking for a furever home. Take Valentine and Anna, for example, who have been in foster care since they were 12 and 10 weeks old, and they’re now 7 months old, shares Michelle Lerner, long-time volunteer with Mt. Olive TNR.
“They look like they’re from the same litter, but they’re not biologically related,” she says. “They met in foster care and became inseparable. When Valentine got moved to a new foster home, she cried for three days until Anna was moved to be with her, and Mt. Olive TNR decided at that point that they need to be adopted together.”
That has been the challenge with these two pals.
“It takes longer to adopt out a bonded pair, though, and adoptions slowed to a trickle
this spring and then stopped, so Valentine and Anna are still waiting patiently for their forever home,” says Lerner. “They’re playful and loving, good with other cats, and they’re spayed, up to date on vaccines, negative for FIV/ FeLV and microchipped.
“Adoption fee is normally $150 for a kitten but Mt. Olive TNR Project will reduce the adoption fee to $200 for this bonded pair to be able to go to the right home,” she adds. The adoption application can be found at www.mtolivetnr.org or email mtolivetnr@ gmail.com
History of Mt. Olive TNR
It was 16 years ago when The Mt. Olive TNR Project began. That was the time when there were a lot of feral and stray cats in Mt. Olive, recalls Lerner.
“Through years of intensive spay/neuter and adoption, the population was humanely reduced to a very small and con-
trolled population,” she shares. “However, there will always be some newly abandoned cats or feral cats wandering across town lines.”
With that comes the continued need for trapping and for foster homes, she says.
“Occasionally, we encounter a situation with many cats needing help,” says Lerner. “This happened to us several times in the last few years because during the lockdown in 2020-2021 many people got kittens and did not get them neutered, and the kittens grew up and reproduced.
“We had a few situations where they were reproducing in people’s apartments, and one where they were reproducing outside,” she adds. “When this happens, we suddenly have the need for trappers and foster homes.”
Because Mt. Olive TNR has “had long stretches of relative quiet with very few cats, our volunteers and foster homes
Hours:
have dwindled, and then when we need them, we have really had to scramble, which is unsustainable.”
With that the case, Mt. Olive TNR is always “in need of a few more residents willing to foster sporadically as needed and new volunteers.
“We did many adoptions last fall and winter; the slowdown has really just been in the last few months,” adds Learner.
With the school year ending, and families going on vacation, adopting a cat is most likely not the priority.
Lerner also explains the difference between stray and feral cats.
Feral cats were most likely born outside and are not tame and need to remain outdoor cats she explains.
“To our knowledge, there are 21 TNR’d feral cats left in town,” she shares.
Stray cats, on the other hand, are tame cats who had a home but then got lost or were abandoned.
“At any given time in Mt. Olive there are probably a few of these; if we hear of one, we work to find their home and, if there is no home to be found, get them into foster care,” she explains. “Animal Control is also called for stray cats, and impounds them and, if not reclaimed, places them with a nokill rescue.
“There are not many feral cats or stray cats living outside in Mt. Olive anymore, but there will always be some,” she says. “And we don’t have eyes everywhere, so if residents know of any outdoor cats, feral or otherwise, who need spay/neuter or foster care, they should reach out to us and/or Animal
Control.
“MOTNR is desperately in need of more foster homes and a few residents interested in learning how to trap,” adds Lerner. “The unique thing about MOTNR at this point is that the work is sporadic and at maintenance level, meaning it’s not constant.
“We need a few residents willing to be on call to foster kittens or an adult every once in a while, when it’s needed, because if we don’t have people on call for when it’s needed, we can’t help when we get urgent calls,” she adds.
Time length can vary, says Lerner, as sometimes cats need
fostering for a few days, weeks and sometimes months.
“Most of the trappers in the group are also aging or have health problems, so we’d love to train a few new volunteers as trappers,” she adds. “We provide extensive training and support. We could also use another volunteer to provide pre-operative and post-operative care, and we can provide training and support for that as well. And of course, donations are always helpful, as that’s how we pay for vet care.” For more information, visit www.mtolivetnr.org or call (973) 804-6273.
Exciting News for Mt. Olive Residents and Businesses!
MOUNT OLIVE - We are proud to introduce the Mt. Olive Property Tax Reward Program—an innovative initiative designed to encourage residents to shop locally while supporting our incredible businesses. The township has covered the fees, so businesses can join for free! How It Works: For example, Joe’s Pizza Shop offers $1.00 off per pizza. A resident purchases a pizza at full price and provides their rewards (phone) number. The merchant applies the discount, and the resident earns $1.00 credit toward their property tax bill.
Benefits for Residents:
• Save an average of $300$400 per year based on how frequently you shop locally.
• Even non-residents work-
ing in town can participate and receive a check at the end of the year.
Benefits for Businesses:
• Register your business and offer a discount.
• Discounts are deducted from your account monthly.
• Full access to an online dashboard to track and review sales generated by the program. Join Us Today! Sign up at www.PropertyTaxCard.com/MountOlive. Top right-hand corner to register your business. The process is secure and takes less than 10 minutes to complete. Once registered, we’ll follow up to welcome you and explain the program in detail. Together, let’s make Mt. Olive a stronger and more connected community
Boy Scout’s Project Reroutes Trail for Safety and Scenery
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
MOUNT OLIVE - Those who enjoy the many trails in Mt. Olive can now pass through the White Trail more safely thanks to this local Boy Scout and his team.
Dylan Louie of Mt. Olive has been a member of Troop 312 out of Budd Lake for the past seven years. His Eagle Scout project was recently completed—Trail Transformation: Making the White Trail Safer and More Enjoyable.
“I encourage the community to go out and walk the trail and enjoy the scenery,” says Louie, who can now take a breath of
fresh air now that his project is complete. Under his Troop Scoutmaster Mukund Kulkarni, Louie has his project finalized back in February.
“My project is relocating a segment of the White Trail in Mt. Olive from on roadways to into the woods,” he says.
Once the weather was on his side, he began working.
“I waited until better weather conditions when we started April 25 to start clearing the new section,” he shares. “On Thursday June 12, I finished the trail by putting in the remaining
puncheons.
“I had a resilient team of 20 volunteers come,” says Louis. “Ten scouts and 10 members of the community. The scouts aged from 13-17.”
Over an eight-day span, the team completed the puncheons.
“It took a total of 22 hours to complete the whole project,” says Louie.
The trail segment is located behind Mt. Olive High School in Budd Lake and is part of the White Trail.
“By Mt. Olive High School the white trail originally went through the parking lot, down
The After Char-Broil 55 Years of Serving the Community and Making Memories
MOUNT OLIVE - On behalf of the entire community of Mount Olive, Mayor Nicastro extended his warmest congratulations to The After Charbroil and Ice Cream Parlor on reaching a remarkable milestone—your 55th anniversary! This is a truly outstanding achievement and a testament to their dedication, hard work, and vision over the years. Since opening their doors on July 1, 1970, with just forty dollars and a borrowed hundred from your father, you have built more than just a business—John Davis created a beloved community staple. From the humble beginnings of 85-cent cheese hamburgers and 50-cent hot dogs, The After has grown into a cherished gathering spot for families and friends, embodying the heart and soul of Mount Olive’s spirit. The establishment is warm, old-fashioned drive-up service, where customers can park, come inside, or sit outside and enjoy a delicious ice cream togo, continues to foster a sense of community and nostalgia. It’s more than just a place to eat— it’s a home away from home for so many of our residents, said Mayor Nicastro .
Cory Road and through Schoolhouse Lane,” explains Louie. “To make the route safer for the community I took the trail off of all roads and cut behind the high school to have a nice nature walk through the woods and across some streams to make it more scenic.”
Louie is thankful to the “members of my troop, friends, family, and members of the community,” for taking part in his project which “was just a part of the journey to my Eagle Scout rank.
His project cost around $815 “and thanks to the generous donations of the community I was able to cover the costs of the project.
“I was searching for a good and meaningful project to take on as my project and Mr. David Alexander put out a post asking for an eagle scout interested in a project,” says Louie. Alexander is currently the secretary of the Mt. Olive Open Space Advisory Board.
“I inquired and to my surprise the project was too good to pass up as I love hiking and being outdoors,” he continues.
“Giving back to the community is something that I enjoy and I’m glad I could make it safer and more enjoyable for all.
“I’m so glad that I was able to complete this project with the help of so many, and it makes me so happy that I am able to contribute and give back to a community full of wonderful people,” he concludes.
Gina Davis-Grohowski , John Davis Sr., Danny Davis, John Davis, Jr. and Mayor Joe Nicastro
Marauders Swing Big As Baseball Conference Champs
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
Pope John and Gill St. Bernard. But its wins is what carried the team of 20 players, from freshmen to seniors, all season long.
“Our goals were to win county tournament,” says Zoccolillo. The team wound up finishing in the top four. “Win conference (accomplished), win states (lost in quarterfinals),” he adds.
MOHS Boys’ Baseball has
really stepped up to the plate in previous years as well.
Anyone can sign up for next season, he says. “All tryouts start in March,” he adds.
From Quiet Streets to Movie Scenes, Mt. Olive Takes Action
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
MOUNT OLIVE - Mt. Olive is far from Hollywood but could be in the queue as a location for a film or movie production in the future.
The Mt. Olive Twp. Council approved an ordinance at its May 27 council meeting establishing a new chapter entitled Filming. The new code regulates commercial filming in the township.
The ordinance is one of the steps a town must complete to be certified as a Film Ready town.
“Film Ready New Jersey is an initiative of the N.J. Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTV) to help drive movie production in N.J. and to help get communities prepared to host film and television production,” explains Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko.
production and enables cities and towns to effectively accommodate on location filming and market their communities as filming destinations, according to the NJMPTV website.
“The program sets basic standards for attracting filmmaking and positions the state as a top production destination,” as stated on the NJMPTV site. “The “filmready” designation provides an elevated platform for certified communities to promote themselves as filming destinations and connects film and TV professionals with skilled and knowledgeable liaisons across the state, who can provide local expertise and support to create easier, faster and better access to nearby resources and location information.”
drop for several productions.
“In the fall of 2019, NBC Universal filmed a scene on Sand Shore Road for an episode of a new television series titled “Masters of Doom,” not sure if it ever aired,” says Tatarenko. “Most recently, Netflix reached out about using the Golf Zone to film “Happy Gilmore” but a last-minute change was made unfortunately.
“It is a five-step certification and marketing program,” he says. “One of the steps is to adopt a Film ordinance that promotes media production and is mutually beneficial to the township, residents and production companies.”
Film Ready New Jersey is a five-step certification and marketing program that educates municipalities on the basics of motion picture and television
With this new ordinance, Mt. Olive will be ready if selected for any productions.
“The township previously did not have a formal policy allowing or restricting filming in Mt. Olive,” says Tatarenko. “However, in the past, production companies would reach out to administration for guidance on filming procedures and we would work with them on providing a safe location.”
Mt. Olive has been considered previously as the back-
“During our site visit with the NJMPTC, the township property on Pondview Drive was shown and a comment was made that this property would be perfect for an upcoming “Friday the 13th” movie – we will see if that ever transpires.” With this ordinance, “the taking of still or motion pictures either on film or videotape or similar recording medium, for commercial or educational purposes intended for viewing on television, in theaters or institutional uses” will be allowed. For major motion pictures, “any film which is financed or distributed by a major motion picture studio for which the budget is at least $20 million or any recurrent weekly television series programming,” will meet the criteria.
As far as public lands, “any
BY CHERYL CONWAY
and the east coast, has had its share of rain this season, but when never knows if a forest fire could be a threat.
Volunteer firefighters in Flanders and Budd Lake will be ready to fight any future forest fires thanks to some recent training provided to them.
“We are going to have certified forest fighters and responders in town,” shares Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko during the May 27 Mt. Olive Twp. Council meeting. “Not many towns have that.”
On Friday, June 6, and Saturday, June 7, 20 firefighters received training in wildland firefighting. The all-day train-
Firefighters Received Forest Fire Training
ing sessions were conducted by In House Training with lead instructor from NJ Forest Fire, shares Tyler Wargo, Mt. Olive Twp. assistant treasurer, fire and EMS director.
Training included: Advancing hose line up and down uneven terrain; creating fire line/ stop barriers; digging trenches; creating fire line and back burn; survival tent deployment; weather patterns; and vegetation knowledge.
“In order for any of our members to participate in the training they are required to complete S-130, S-190, and L-180 and these are the basic classes; then will complete the field day training to be certified,” says Wargo. “This training is roughly 40 hours.”
Movie Scenes...
and every public street, highway, sidewalk, square, public park or playground or any other public space within the municipality” will be allowed for filming.
A permit will be required by the municipal clerk for any filming on public or private property that involves the operation, placement or temporary storage of vehicles or equipment utilized for filming.
Where filming takes place on private property, the applicant must seek permission from the property owner in writing.
While Mt. Olive escaped large brush fires in the past, like ones as close as Rockaway last year, it is wise to be ready with appropriate training to utilize in town and to help its neighbors.
“Last year we observed and responded to small brush fires within town and also provided mutual aid for the large-scale forest fires due to our staffing and equipment that includes two wildland brush fire trucks and one wildland firefighting UTV (Utility Task Vehicle),” explains Wargo.
Closest forest fires have been in Hackettstown, Roxbury, Randolph and Mine Hill, shares Wargo.
“With the continued climate change and wildland fires with-
in town, and continuous mutual aid requests we have received I have been diligently working to secure training for our fire & EMS providers,” says Wargo.
“This training will not only provide our first responders with key safety & life safety elements to wildland fires but will also certify the members who are able to complete the field day training as wildland firefighters promoting added safety for our first responders and residents within Mt. Olive Township.
Cost for this in-house training was $2,250 with monies coming from the Flanders Fire Operating budget, says Wargo.
He explains why this training is necessary.
“Potential for a large-scale fire continues to grow year over year with the continued climate change,” says Wargo.
He gives some advice to residents.
“During summer months listen to water restrictions in
The ordinance also states that the permit holder must avoid interference with scheduled public activities, adhere to any noise ordinances and notify any adjacent property owners or businesses of an upcoming project.
Officials are excited about this new initiative.
“I think this is a great oppor-
Insurance by the applicant must also be provided to protect against bodily injury or property damage; the hiring of a police officer is also required. The permit holder must also clean up debris and equipment at the completion of a project.
tunity to showcase Mt. Olive and boost the local economy,” says Tatarenko. “When a location in Mt. Olive is selected, production companies use local businesses to service production such as hotels, food establishments, service businesses, etc.”
Agrees Councilman Chuck Aaron, “I think it’s a great opportunity for the town. “We have a beautiful town; to get us out there and make it formal puts us in the spotlight.”
Laughs Council President Alex Roman, “I see the next Netflix special.”
Great resources include the following links: Township of Mt. Olive, Office of the Fire Marshal | Facebook
Mt. Olive Senior Hits All the Right Notes in Jazz
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
star.
This past June 8, he led a trio at the Rising Stars Opening Act at the Jersey Jazz LIVE! concert presented by the New Jersey Jazz Society at the Madison Community Arts Center
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
MOUNT OLIVE - “I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream,” (a song written by Howard Johnson, Billy Moll and Robert King in 1927) was the highlight at the Mt. Olive Senior Center in May but instead of screaming, students were singing.
Members of the Mt. Olive Middle School Choir visited senior citizens at the Mt. Olive Senior Center in Flanders to perform some of their songs and take part in their ice-cream social. Half of the sixth-grade choir, about 75 members, visited on May 20 to entertain and share a sweet cold treat.
“The middle school choir
in Madison. He was joined by his MOHS classmate, Ansh Parikh on bass, and Montclair State drummer Alex Kavlakian. Parikh is also a member of the JHK Big Band, and Kavlakian, a graduate of Rahway High School, was the winner of the 2025 James Moody Jazz Scholarship.
Marichal has been a member of the N.J. All-State Jazz Ensemble and is currently part of the Jazz House Kids Big Band that competed this May at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington competition, according to a press release. He considers himself to be
self-taught, but also credits some of his teachers who helped clean up his act.
“Been mostly self-taught until about a year ago when I landed a mentorship with one of my personal heroes of the trombone, Steve Turre,” says Marichal. “He’s been my private teacher for the last year in conjunction with Darrel Hendricks, my high school band director.”
With so many instruments to choose from, Marichal felt a connection to the trombone.
“The trombone picked me before I picked it,” he says. “I got put on the instrument because the middle school band
was running low on them and I was big enough to reach the end of the slide. However, I fell in love with the sound of the instrument and felt a personal connection with the slide part of the instrument in terms of its allowing of expressibility.”
The main organization he plays with is the pre-college academy—Jazz House Kids— on Sundays.
“I’ve been playing with them for two years and the program has been by far the most influential place in my musical journey,” he says.
“My creativity makes me stand out,” he says. “While hard
to see before it has fully flourished, my sound on the trombone is and plans to become more unique within the coming years.”
School is out but Marichal plans to pay throughout the summer. On June 27, he was set to play a tribute to the women of salsa with 2x Grammy winner Chino Nunez, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., in Bethlehem, Pa.
In college, he plans to continue playing music.
“I hope to study Jazz performance at a college either in the city or close proximity to it,” says Marichal who is also member of the MOHS Music Honor
Moms Choir Ice Cream Social with Seniors
walked over to sing to seniors and serve them at the ice-cream social,” shares Councilwoman Colleen Labow, who is also a member of the Mt. Olive Seniors group. Everybody had ice cream and toppings. It was really, really nice.!”
The MOMS Choir visited the seniors twice during the school year and then invited them to its dress rehearsal performance.
“We love to visit our senior community, and I think it’s so important to involve all members in our community in the music making that takes place in our schools,” says Joanna Scarangello of Hackettstown, director of Choirs at MOMS.
“This year we received a grant from the Peter Marsh Foundation and the funds were meant to support these visits and engagement with our senior community!”
With the Mt. Olive School District for the past nine years, Scarangello has taught and directed more than 400 students.
This year the MOMS Choir visited the seniors on Nov. 19, 2024, to perform three to four songs of holiday/winter music.
At the May 20 ice-cream social, half of the sixth graders visited the MO Senior Center to perform to about 50 seniors some spiritual songs, a song about growing up and a “fun song in
Spanish,” shares Scarangello.
“The town of Mt. Olive sponsored this Ice Cream Social for the senior club, and we were invited to join,” she adds. “The students were served their choice of chocolate or vanilla icecream and there were toppings such as peanut butter cookie crumbles, bananas, whipped cream and sauces.”
Then on June 9, the seniors visited the MOMS for the choirs’ dress rehearsal performed by 315 students from all the school’s choirs with Melissa Hughes, choir director and Melany McQueeny, supervisor of Music K-12.
“For the dress rehearsal the seniors heard our entire concert - 18 songs!” says Scarangello. “For this year, we had our two main visits and then hosted them at our school. It’s our hope that this becomes a regular occurrence and we can work out more visits in the future!”
Adds Labow, “They put on a wonderful concert for us. Those
Society. “My ultimate goal with the trombone is to be an innovative voice on the instrument,” he concludes. “That means finding my own, new sound.”
kids: it was amazing, their performance. It was incredible.”
While Scarangello loves teaching and directing her students in music, she finds true harmony in creating meaningful connections between them and the community.
“These events mean the world to me,” she says. “I was so struck by the overwhelming feeling of pride in community when performing for our seniors. The best part was honestly the social aspect - where students sat with and had con-
versations with our seniors.
“When hosting the seniors at our school for a culmination of our performances throughout the year, there was a true sense of belonging and connection between the kids and our visitors,” she concludes. “It was very moving to receive such warm words and hugs from the seniors as they left. We made some true connections within our greater community, and it was quite special to witness its unfolding.”
Chess
Wednesday, July 9 at 12 pm
Come join the fun as we make a lighthouse! You’ll turn edible ingredients into a work of art. All supplies are included. This program is geared towards Seniors. Registration is required as spots are limited. Register at www.mopl.org.
Jewelry Making for Adults
Thursday, July 10 at 5:30 pm
Make your own beaded necklace and/or bracelet with Valerie and Joan from Under
Mt. Olive Library Happenings
Angels’ Wings. This twohour class is designed to guide you in an easygoing, stress free environment. You will leave with your new jewelry and instructions to create a similar project at home. All tools and supplies will be provided. Registration is required at www.mopl.org as spots are limited.
French Conversation Career Room
Saturday, July 12, 10:30-12:30
Let’s get together for some French conversation! Our goal is to practice French and improve our conversational skills in a casual environment while enjoying activities that will foster fun and learning.
Registration is required at www.mopl.org as spots are limited.
At P&J Landscape Design LLC, we’re dedicated to enhancing the natural beauty of your outdoor spaces in Morris County, NJ. Our commitment to quality and community stems from our deep roots in the area. We pride ourselves in using local vendors, ensuring that each project contributes positively to our beloved community. Whether you’re looking for a complete landscape makeover or simple maintenance, our team is ready to bring your vision to life. Let us create a serene and stunning environment for your home.
Bingo
Monday, July 14 at 1 pm
Enjoy bingo? Come to bingo at the library and compete to win advanced reader copies of interesting books!
Registration is required at www.mopl.org as spots are limited.
Crochet with Mama J
Two Sessions: Tuesday, July 15 from 11-2
Wednesday, July 30 from 11-2
Conference Room
Join us for crochet lessons at the Mount Olive Public Library! These small, intimate classes are perfect for anyone looking to learn the art of crochet, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced crocheter wanting to enhance your skills.
Registration is required at www.mopl.org as spots are
limited.
Flower Collage
Wednesday, July 16 at 1 pm
Join us as we create a beautiful picture using pressed flowers against a book page background!
Registration is required at www.mopl.org as spots are limited.
Design-Your-Own
Library Bag
Monday, July 21 at 1 pm
Come to the library and design your own literary themed canvas tote bag. Supplies are included.
Registration is required as supplies are limited. Register at www.mopl.org.
Silent Book Club
Wednesday, July 23 at 2 pm
Want to join a book club but not sure if you have time to read a whole book? Cool off at
the library with a book of your choice. There’s no assigned books, questions, etc. - just sit and read! Time will be given at the end of the program if you want to share some brief thoughts on what you’re reading with others.
Registration is requested at www.mopl.org.
Hatha Yoga
Wednesday, July 23 at 6pm
Come enjoy Hatha yoga with Danielle! Hatha yoga is practiced at a slower pace with a focus on breathing, meditation, controlled movements, stretching, and relaxation.
Registration is required at www.mopl.org as spots are limited.
Wreck the Book
Thursday, July 24 at 6:30 pm
Want to doodle and paint in a unique way? Come to our
adult book art program!
You’ll be able to turn your book into a work of art any way you want! Books will be supplied. Admission is free but registration is required as spots are limited. Register at www. mopl.org.
Skateboard Standoff Saturday, July 26 at 12 pm
Check out this totally awesome showcase with Cultivate Skate Shop. Dimitri and Dan will be demonstrating skateboard tricks and showing their skills on ramps of all sizes. Enjoy music, snacks, and free merchandise during the show. One lucky winner will go home with a new skateboard! This program is for all ages!
BY DANA JACKSON
Q: Is Garcelle Beauvais going to return to acting now that she’s leaving “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” or will she get her own reality show instead?
-- T.O.
A: Garcelle Beauvais recently extended her partnership with the Lifetime network to produce and star in more projects with them. Her “Black Girl Missing” franchise of TV movies with the network has been a huge success. Next up for her is”Taken at a Truck Stop: A Black Girl Missing Movie,” where she’ll play Kai -- a truck driver who launches her own investigation after her neurodivergent niece is abducted by an online predator.
She’s also starring and producing in the next Terry McMillan project, titled “Tempted 2 Love,” a sequel to last year’s hit movie “Tempted By Love.” Beauvais will once again play a star chef, but this time she’s trav-
BY DEMI TAVERAS
“Sally” (PG) -- June is Pride Month in the United States, and this documentary’s release about the first LGBT astronaut is very timely and topical! Premiering June 17, this doc details the life of Sally Ride, whose list of firsts is quite legendary. Not only was she a part of the first class of NASA astronauts to include women, Ride was the first American woman in space (third woman overall and the youngest American overall). Her list of achievements is even more legendary, but they didn’t come without sacrifice. In the doc, her longtime partner, Tam O’Shaughnessy, provides her account of their 27-year relationship and the significance of these sacrifices as two professional queer women working to
eling to Ireland with her new flame only to bump into her much younger ex. “I’m thrilled to continue telling stories that resonate deeply with audiences and put women -- especially Black women -- at the center,” said Beauvais. “Working with Lifetime has given me the opportunity to expand narratives that are heartfelt, suspenseful, and full of purpose. Both of these films are incredibly special to me, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience them.”
“Garcelle is an undeniable creative force whose passion for telling authentic, impactful stories continues to inspire our audiences,” said Elaine Frontain Bryant, EVP and head of programming at A&E, Lifetime and LMN. “These new films not only deepen the emotional and cultural resonance of our programming but also reaffirm our
Celebrity Extra Couch Theater ENTERTAINMENT
achieve their dreams during the late 1900s. (Disney+)
“Love Me” (R) -- This postapocalyptic romance movie starring Kristen Stewart (“Love Lies Bleeding”) and Steven Yeun (“Nope”) went completely under the radar during its theatrical release last year, although a film that takes the plot of “WALL-E” and spins it on its head isn’t going to be a major blockbuster draw like “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Taking place long after the year 2500 and the major extinction of humanity, the film follows a weather buoy that was left to greet any lifeform that encounters Earth. The buoy happens upon a passing satellite, which is the first object that the buoy is able to make contact with.
shared commitment to championing diverse voices and stories that matter.”
***
Q:What is Tara Reid doing since she made a comeback with the “Sharknado” movies? Does she have any other movies coming out? -- N.C.
A: Tara Reid’s career has unfortunately taken a dive since the 1990s, when she shot to stardom in movies like “American Pie,” “Cruel Intentions,” and “The Big Lebowski.” She became tabloid fodder soon after for partying with Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan. Her career fell into a slump until the campy TV movie “Sharknado” came out in 2013, which was followed by several sequels. She told Variety that she’s now producing her own projects and currently has 12(!) titles in the works on her IMDb page, including “Hollywood Heist”
Lonely and yearning to learn about human life, the buoy becomes online friends with the satellite, leading to a beautiful connection that evolves to almost become humanlike. Premieres June 16. (Paramount+)
“Skincare” (R) -- Deemed as a thriller, even though it assumes the form of an action-comedy, this directorial debut from Austin Peters is led by none other than the prolific Elizabeth Banks (“The Better Sister”), who knows how to bring relatable comedy to life. Banks portrays Hope Goldman, an aesthetician who runs a skincare studio in Los Angeles. Hope prepares to launch a skincare line, but her dream starts to dwindle in the distance when another skincare studio
with Alec Baldwin and Mickey Rourke.
***
Q: What’s the latest on a third season of “Big Little Lies” being filmed? Is it hard to get the A-list cast together again? -- K.S.
A:According to “Big Little Lies” creator David E. Kelley, “everyone” wants to do a new season of the HBO series, which is based on the novel by Liane Moriarty. Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Zoe Kravitz and Shailene Woodley are all eager to reprise their roles, and Morarity is in the midst of writing the novel on which the script will be based. I wouldn’t expect to see the finished product on-screen until mid to late 2026 or perhaps early 2027. Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail. com.
(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
opens up directly across from her and garners lots of success. Slowly but surely, attempts are made to sabotage Hope’s work, forcing her to decide how far she’s willing to go to save her dream. If you’ve seen Banks’ “Cocaine Bear,” you should know that she’s willing to go pretty far! Premieres June 17. (Hulu)
“We Were Liars” (TV-MA) -- This new eight-episode series hitting streaming on June 18 is based on the 2014 young adult novel by E. Lockhart and almost feels like a cleaner version of Netflix’s “Outer Banks.”
Emily Alyn Lind (“Gossip Girl”) stars as Cadence Sinclair Eastman, a 17-year-old who spends her summers on a private island near Martha’s Vine-
yard, Massachusetts, thanks to the wealth and notoriety that comes with the Sinclair name. Usually, these summers consist of normal teenage shenanigans like parties, dates, and late nights, but one summer night results in a terrible accident for Cadence, leaving her with a serious bout of amnesia. A year later, she returns to her summer island to see if she can piece together what happened to her and who was involved. (Amazon Prime Video) (c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
The Sea’s Healing Waltz
Ocean waves come to greet you.
They bow before your toes in friendship.
Each swell and retreat a constant Waltz
Between the land and the sea.
The waves welcome you with their alluring call.
Their fingers of salt water Brush against your life’s pain, Enveloping you in the comforting embrace,
Of a long lost friend.
With each crest and fall waves glide beside you, Their emotional care lifting burdens deep, Easing the world’s weight on your shoulders;
AREA - According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the shifting climate across the planet is impacting extreme weather throughout the globe. NASA notes that heat waves affecting the land and the sea, severe floods, droughts lasting years in some cases, extreme
Those storm clouds swollen with rain. Your need for solitude undisturbed, Found beside this great expanse soothes. Troubles drift to the distant horizon, for a while, Until you find your strength again,
As you Waltz with the rhythm of the sea.
Ms Skip Friggle © 6/16/2025 (Budd Lk) skipfriggle@gmail.com (questions/comments)
wildfires, and hurricane-related flooding are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. Warming air and ocean temperatures resulting from the increased burning of fossil fuels is affecting the water cycle, shifting weather patterns and melting land ice, all of which is making extreme
From left, Emily Alyn Lind, Esther McGregor, Joseph Zada and Shubham Maheshwari star in “We Were Liars”. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Amazon Prime Video.
Garcelle Beauvais (“The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”).
Photo Credit: Depositphotos
GAME TIME
Lifelong Mt. Olive Man Turns Vision into Global Trade Hub
BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER
MOUNT OLIVE - “Personal relationships are the fertile soil from which all advancement, all success, all achievement in real life grows.”–Ben Stein
Leslie “Les” Smith Jr., lifelong resident of Mt. Olive, did not come from the land of milk and honey but he grew up during the time when people connected with one another face to face. There were no cell phones, social media nor emails. In business, one talked to one another and made connections.
At the age of 84, Smith reflects on his life and how he turned an idea into a reality of a lifetime, stamping his name as the founder of the International Trade Center/New Jersey Foreign Trade Zone #44. His success story has put the township on the map as the first inland foreign trade zones in the United States, he shares.
Smith’s Story
Smith grew up on Budd Lake Heights Road in Budd Lake, in a home built by his father. His dad, Leslie Smith Sr., worked in the iron ore industry at the Scrub Oaks Mine in Mine Hill, while his mother was employed at the Netcong pocketbook factory.
His mother, Margaret Foley, emigrated from Ireland to the U.S. at the age of 16, encouraged by her brother who was already living in New York. At the time, her brother performed Irish music with a small band for the radio commercial for the Barney’s New York store and invited Margaret to join, showcasing her talent on the accordion and violin. His father, meanwhile, was the band’s pianist—and that’s how his parents connected in perfect harmony.
They were first introduced to Budd Lake through his dad’s brother, Horace Smith of Montclair, who owned a bungalow on Budd Lake Heights Road.
“He invited my mother and father to spend time with him there and they fell in love with it,” shares Smith.
Back then, Budd Lake was filled with the small bungalows, Smith recalls, attracting many New Yorkers and people from northern New Jersey to flock to the country during the warmer months.
His parents loved it so much they decided to build a house across from Horace’s bungalow and make it their permanent residence.
“They just fell in love with it,” says Smith. “They wanted to move out of the city and into the country.” His parents were living on Park Ave. in East Orange before they moved west.
“As a kid I was a lifeguard on one of the beaches,” he recalls, Norton’s Beach which was part of Budd Lake on Sandshore Road. “They were packed back then. There were two big beaches there and a very large arcade across from the beach. Budd Lake back then, it was really hopping.”
Smith was a Boy Scout, and he attended St. Michael’s grammar school in Netcong and then Netcong High School as there were no schools in Mt. Olive back then. His sister Cheryl, who was six years younger than him, went to West Morris High School.
“My family was not wealthy, but we lived a great life,” says Smith. College was not an option for Smith, so he became a real estate broker and got married right out of high school.
He opened his own real estate office- Morris Hills Realtyon Route 46 in Budd Lake.
“I didn’t have too many choices,” he says. “There was M&M in Hackettstown; I didn’t want to just get a job someplace. I was very entrepreneurial at a very young age. I took classes in real estate. It was learn as you go.”
Smith positioned himself at the right time.
“Back in the day, before ITC, when 80 was being planned to come to Mt. Olive, lots of investors came out to buy large land,” he explains. “They’d pull in and say they want the land.
“I knew every farmer, every major landowner,” says Smith. He wound up selling the land to major land developers such as Hensyn Village, the Tobacco Farm on Smithtown Road, the housing development on Smithtown Road, to name a few.
“During those early years I was scratching around to make a buck,” says Smith. He attended every local business meeting
such as Kiwanis in Roxbury and any rotary clubs.
It was at one of the rotary clubs when he connected with Andrew Clark, a Hackettstown man who followed the railroads and built industrial landmarks across the country.
“We hit it off, chit chatting,” recalls Smith about his late friend who was in his 80’s at the time. “He asked if we could have lunch the following day.”
With money that Clark made during the time when the railroads were built, Clark had purchased 670 acres in his career well before Route 80 existed here, shares Smith.
“At our lunch and many lunches that followed, Clark shared his dream,” says Smith.
“I have a dream for this property,” Clark told Smith. Instead of railroads to ship foreign trade products, there should be an inland foreign trade zone in the U.S. allowed under custom bonds.
“Up until this point in time, all foreign trade zones were strategically located in port cities, not inlands,” stresses Smith.
A foreign trade zone allows companies to import goods without immediately paying import duties. Within the zone, goods can be stored, assembled, manufactured or processed. Duties are only paid if the products enter the U.S. market; if exported, no duties are charged. The zone also helps create jobs both within the park and in surrounding support businesses.
Clark told him “I’ll make you president of Lakeland Industrial Park,” shares Smith, which allowed him to pursue approvals from the necessary state and federal agencies. That was back in the 1970’s.
Clark, however, was “not up to the task of obtaining approvals, which took years,” says Smith. He gave Smith the green light to go after his dream and vision to make it a reality.
“I took about three years of my life,” shares Smith. “I couldn’t get money from the bank because I had no money. I borrowed as much money as I could from family and friends.” He needed the money to travel by train to Washington, D.C. for approval from the United
States Foreign Trade Zones Board in addition to several federal departments including the Army and Navy.
When he met with the director of the Foreign Trade Zone Board, “he was intrigued with my idea,” says Smith.
Others did not take Smith seriously and ridiculed him.
NBC New York TV came out to interview him and he was mocked— “Who is this crazy guy who wanted to build a foreign trade zone here?”
There was a man in Mendham, however, a senior executive with Cushman & Wakefield of New York who was intrigued by Smith’s idea. C&W at the time was owned by Rockefeller Group Development and a meeting was arranged for Smith to present his idea to “a very classy” real estate development company associated with New York’s Rockefeller Center.
He spent one year meeting with them “doing a deep dive,” Smith calls it, until they “finally said we’re interested.” The Rockefeller Group offered him a 30% partnership, while keeping 70% for themselves.
“We closed August 1, 1979, that was my birthday,” laughs Smith. A charter was approved by the federal government to create the Foreign Trade Zone #44 in Mt. Olive on the 670 acres.
Clark was still alive at the time and was there during the partnership with the Rockefeller group as well as for the 1980 groundbreaking of the property, notes Smith. One of the roads in the ITC, Clark Drive, is even named after him.
They made Smith executive director and marketed the property by offering to tenants build-to-suit buildings based on a 15-year net lease.
“We met with architects, lawyers and planners to come up with what is there today,” says Smith. “It grew its own life.”
In 1984— the first tenant Hattori Corporation of Japan aka Seiko—“the largest watch company in the world”— took up 225k sq. ft. of watches, says Smith, “acres of watches. Instead of having to pay the duty at the port, they bring them
to Mt. Olive duty free. Now they only pay the duty when it leaves the Mt. Olive site. Duty on watches, on thousands of watches is a lot of money!” Then there was Bavarian Motor Works (BMW) the following year, Mars’ Information Services Group, Givaudan Roure and Calvin Klein who opened businesses off Rt. 46. This land was designated as the International Trade Center (ITC).
Long after Clark’s ITC, Smith realized that Mt. Olive was dry of retail shops.
“I said to the Rockefeller Group, there’s no place to shop in Mt. Olive,” he says at that time. “We’d have to go to Hackettstown and Roxbury. The location was ideal.
“Rockefeller’s business plan at the time did not include retail,” he explains, “just office and industrial developments.”
With Rockefeller Group’s approval, Smith went ahead and bought six to seven more properties on Rt. 46 and Rt. 206, took it to the Mt. Olive Planning Board, applied for 110 acres and got it all approved. This additional land became known as ITC South.
The land soon became divided into two sections: ITC and ITC South.
“The IT South parcels were assembled, planned, improved and sold to a retail investor for further development,” says Smith. “Additionally, Rockefeller Group sold a portion of the International Trade Center/ NJFTZ west of Inerstate 80 to an investment arm of JP Morgan many years ago. Today the remaining acreage east of Interstate 80 has been sold and is being developed by a residential developer alongside industrial and hotel properties formerly owned by the Rockefeller Group.”
According to a list provided by Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko, more than 150 businesses that have been located in the ITC South and ITC Foreign Trade Zone #44.
Some of the bigger most known ones include Amazon Warehouse, Fratelli Beretta, Walmart, Lowes, Home Goods, Sketchers and Famous Foot-
wear. There are several restaurants such as Chiles, Wendys, Applebee’s, Longhorn Steakhouse, McDonalds, Chipotle and Panera. Other shops and services such as banking, hair and nail salons, pet care, and lodging are provided too. Smith, who stayed in Mt. Olive and still lives in Flanders, raised his two kids in town and has appreciated the growth in which he played an integral part.
“I’ve been in Mt. Olive all my life,” says Smith. “I was proud it created so many jobs to local people,” he says about the ITC and ITCS. “I would guestimate ITC and ITCS created probably 3,000 jobs. I was very proud to bring that development to the town I grew up in. I shop there, I bank there.” ITCS alone provides 730,000 square feet for buildings. Amazon employs 500 to 600 people.
Because of its location with ramps and intersection to three major highways, “It’s becoming a regional center,” says Smith. “It’s blossoming so well.”
Idea Extends beyond ITC
When the partnership sold the ITC, the CEO of the Rockefeller Center met Smith for lunch he told him “we created a model here.” He took Smith on as an employee and commissioned him to help find other sites throughout the country to establish more trade zones. Another one was soon opened in Charleston, S.C., another in Southern California, and two more offices in Miami and Phoenix, says Smith.
“I was on a plane for a lot of years,” says Smith. “Other developers did our mold throughout the country.”
Smith retired about seven years ago and is so grateful for the life he has lived in Mt. Olive.
“I love it here,” says Smith, who now has two grandchildren and two great grandchildren. “I have a beautiful home off of Cathy Lane. I developed Cathy Lane and Gary Court. I grew up on a dirt road; now look at Mt. Olive. It has really prospered. We’ve had smart planning. I know good planning. Mt. Olive has been planned very well.”
The International Trade Center/New Jersey Foreign Trade Zone #44 breaks ground in 1980 with Andrew Clark, president Lakeland Industrial Park, from left, Leslie E. Smith, Jr., executive director of NJFTZ; Joseph Brady, State of N.J.; John Horn, State of N.J.; John Burnett, CEO Rockefeller Center Development; Frank Ruggiero, mayor of Mt. Olive Twp.; Barbara Swasey, Mt. Olive Twp. Council president.
RESTAURANT GUIDE
Elevate Summer Hosting with Refreshing Grape Recipes
your nearest and dearest to entire crowds. Grapes are perfect for incorporating into warm-weather recipes as a flavorful addition to main courses, sides and desserts. Or you can simply serve them as an easy, compatible snack that complements an array of your favorite summer dishes.
For a plant-forward option that’s anything but ordinary, vegetarians and burger lovers alike can enjoy Southwest Black Bean-Lentil Burgers with Charred Grape Salsa. Hearty black bean patties are perfectly complemented by the smokysweet flavor of homemade charred grape salsa. Plus, added spice from cumin and chili powder mixed with fresh avocado and cilantro make a satisfying mix of Southwest flavors.
Keep guests’ appetites at bay with fresh, tangy, visually stunning Dill Pickle Marinated Grapes and Cheese that let the natural sweetness of grapes shine through. Each bite pairs that familiar sweet flavor of
grapes with the creaminess of Havarti and savory pickles to create a vibrant yet easy appetizer. A welcome addition to the menu on those hot summer days, Frozen-Yogurt Grape and Coconut Bites are fun, simple to make and refreshing. Each bite features a sweet California grape dipped in creamy Greek yogurt and rolled in shredded coconut so you’ll feel like you’re on a tropical retreat. All it takes is three ingredients for a cool healthy snack you can share with loved ones.
Discover more summertime recipe solutions by visiting GrapesFromCalifornia.com
Southwest Black Bean-Lentil Burgers with Charred Grape Salsa Servings: 8 Grape Salsa:
4 cups red or black Grapes from California
3/4 medium white onion, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slic-
es 1 medium jalapeno pepper, halved, stemmed and seeded
1/3 cup lightly packed cilantro leaves
1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced Burgers:
2/3 cup cooked black or green lentils
2/3 cup cooked brown rice
1/2 cup walnut pieces
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/3 cup dry breadcrumbs
3 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, rinsed, drained and patted dry
2 eggs
olive oil cooking spray
8 wheat burger buns, toasted lettuce leaves (optional)
2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted and sliced
To prepare salsa: In grill basket over medium-high heat, grill grapes, onion and jalapeno pepper 10 minutes until lightly charred, stirring occasionally. Let cool then place in food processor with cilantro, lime juice and garlic. Process until finely chopped.
To prepare burgers: In food processor, pulse lentils, rice, walnuts, onion, breadcrumbs, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, beans and eggs until coarsely chopped with some small pieces still visible, scraping down sides and moving mixture from bottom of bowl to top to blend evenly.
Using wet or lightly oiled hands, shape into eight patties. If mixture is too soft, freeze briefly to firm. Coat on both sides with olive oil spray and, in two skillets over medium heat, cook 10 minutes, turning occasionally and coating with additional olive oil spray. Burgers should be browned and cooked
through.
Place lettuce on bun bottoms and top with burgers, avocado slices, grape salsa and top buns.
Nutritional information per serving (with bun): 480 calories; 17 g protein; 75 g carbohydrates; 15 g fat (28% calories from fat); 2 g saturated fat (4% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 290 mg sodium; 15 g fiber.
Dill Pickle Marinated Grapes and Cheese
Servings: 8
3 cups whole Grapes from California
1 1/4 cups dill pickle juice
3 tablespoons minced red onion
1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 package (6-8 ounces) dill Havarti cheese, cut into bite-size cubes
1 pinch crushed red pepper toothpicks or small skewers fresh dill leaves, for garnish (optional)
In medium bowl, combine grapes, pickle juice, onion, olive oil, Havarti cheese and red pepper. Stir well then cover and refrigerate overnight, or up to 24 hours, to marinate, stirring occasionally.
Remove from refrigerator and let sit at room tempera-
ture 1 hour, or until olive oil has softened. Stir again then thread grapes and cheese onto decorative toothpicks or small skewers. Garnish with fresh dill leaves, if desired, and serve.
Nutritional information per serving: 170 calories; 5 g protein; 11 g carbohydrates; 11 g fat (58% calories from fat); 7 g saturated fat (37% calories from saturated fat); 20 mg cholesterol; 240 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.
Frozen-Yogurt Grape and Coconut Bites
Servings: 10 Bamboo skewer 60 medium Grapes from California
1 individual cup (5.3 ounces) vanilla or lemon Greek yogurt
3/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
Using bamboo skewer, pierce one grape on tip and swirl stem end into yogurt, covering about 3/4 of grape to show color. Sprinkle with coconut, turning skewer to coat all sides. Place on waxed or parchment-lined tray and remove skewer. Repeat with remaining grapes, yogurt and coconut. Freeze several hours, or overnight. Transfer to tightly covered container and store in freezer.
Nutritional information per serving (6 bites): 80 calories; 2 g protein; 9 g carbohydrates; 4 g fat (45% calories from fat); 3.5 g saturated fat (39% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 10 mg sodium; 1 g fiber. (Family Features)
Elevate Your Menu for a Legendary Backyard Barbecue
different than the traditional beef patty. These Pork and Bacon Burgers are made with Heritage Duroc pork, known for its rich flavor and juiciness, and will be a hit at your next barbecue. The crispy bacon adds another level of texture and flavor, making these juicy burgers a gourmet treat that rivals any takeout burger. Celebrating 150 years as the premium all-natural meat choice for families, Coleman All Natural Meats offers a variety of products that are sourced from American family farmers who humanely raise livestock with no antibiotics ever and no added hormones.
Find more recipes to elevate your grilling experience at ColemanNatural.com Pork and Bacon Burgers
(optional)
onion slices (optional) lettuce (optional) ketchup (optional) mayonnaise (optional)
Preheat grill to medium heat.
In large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chorizo, onion, garlic, salt and pepper.
Gently mix ingredients, being careful not to overwork meat.
Divide meat into six burger patties.
Cook burgers 3-4 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 145 F or desired doneness.
During last 2-3 minutes of cooking, place cheese slices on top of burgers to melt, if desired.
Transfer burgers to platter. Assemble burgers with buns, bacon, tomato slices, red onion slices, lettuce, ketchup and mayonnaise, as desired.
Tip: Burger patties may be frozen up to 1 month. Fully defrost before cooking. (Family Features)
To make cake: In bowl, mix butter, cake mix and eggs until blended well but thick. Spread into buttered 9-by-13-inch pan.
To make topping: In another bowl, using mixer, mix softened cream cheese, eggs and powdered sugar until blended well. Pour over cake mixture but do not mix. Bake 30-35 minutes until edges of cake are golden brown but center is not.
Wait until completely cooled to cut, 1-2 hours. To make drizzle: In saucepan over medium heat, add cornstarch and sugar. Mix in water and orange juice. Stir in raspberries and bring to boil. Remove from heat when it starts to thicken. Drizzle raspberry drizzle over each piece. (Family Features)
Family Kitchen Ravioli
North Jersey Actress Celebrates First Off Broadway Show and TikTok Stardom
BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER
AREA - For Lexis Trechak, it’s been a busy few months. The North Jersey actress recently closed her first off Broadway show, something which she says was “exciting, thrilling,” and unlike anything else she’d ever done.
Trechak, who has been a dancer since she was two, began posting content on TikTok in 2019. Thanks to her brother and his self-built backyard rollercoaster, Trechak first posted a behind the scenes video of the coaster’s construction and saw it go viral. From then on, it became her own goal to go viral herself.
“I literally remember telling myself that I was going to go viral. I had one video go viral and I was hooked,” Trechak said.
From that first rollercoaster video, Trechak threw herself into making dance related TikTok content. From skits about different dance teachers she had to participating in viral dance trends, Trechak was invested.
A Temple University graduate with a degree in Speech Pathology, Trechak took the summer after graduating to pursue musical theater. With plans to go to graduate school, Trechak moved in, ready to start the next chapter. However, her summer musical theater experiences stayed with her and made her really begin to think about her career. A day after moving in to her grad school apartment, Trechak quickly moved out and began to look for theater jobs.
“Every person I told that I was considering leaving grad
school was not surprised. They all told me that they weren’t surprised that my heart wasn’t into being in grad school. I’ve been a dancer and actress my whole life, so I really wanted to give this thing a shot,” Trechak said.
While much of her TikTok content is based on the positive side of dance, Trechak tries to accurately portray what her world looks like as an upand-coming dancer. From the hours spent in audition rooms to dealing with major injuries, Trechak tries to show it all to her followers.
“I really want to share my authentic journey as an actor. I see a lot of people who do this career and share their journey but it’s not as realistic as it should be. I want to show the people what actually happens as a professional actor. It is not all glamour and fame. As upsetting as it is to get cut, it’s the truth. There are going to be 10 billion nos before you get that one yes,” Trechak said.
After touring for the past two years as part of the cast of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Trechak booked her first off-Broadway show, Maddie. Maddie, a musical about a young couple, Nick and Jan, who move into a new apartment, discover a message on the wall that was scrawled by a 1920’s actress named Maddie. Maddie takes over Jan’s body and seeks to fulfill her dream of becoming a star. The story explores love, ambition, and the clash between the past and the present. Trechak played the role of Jan’s best friend, Sally.
“It was a new experience for me to play a principal role. I’m ensemble through and through and I love being in the ensemble. It is so much fun, I love to dance. This role was really cool because I had been really insecure about my voice as a singer for a very long time. I had really worked on my voice over the past year and when I got cast as Sally, all of that hard work paid off because I got to be in a role that actually sang a song during the show,” Trechak said.
Maddie closed in early June, but it was an experience that Trechak won’t soon forget. According to her, her life is just a dream come true.
“The life that I’m living isn’t too far off from the one I’d joke about in school. I always said I wanted to be famous and getting to perform as my job is what the dream always was. To get to actually say this is my
work and my job is just unreal,” Trechak said.
To learn more about Trechak, visit www.lexistrechak. org
Lexis Trechak, a North Jersey actress, was recently cast as Sally in the off-Broadway show “Maddie”.
Welcome Fruvana to Mount Olive
MOUNT OLIVE - Mayor Nicastro welcomed Fruvana to Mount Olive on May 31, 2025.
Fruvana is more than just a produce store — it’s a dream that’s been growing for over 20 years. It all began on the sidewalks of Manhattan, where our founder first started selling fruits and vegetables as a street vendor, one bag of apples at a time. Through hard work, community support, and a deep love for fresh, honest food, that small cart turned into a warehouse in the Bronx — Garden Gift — which now supplies over 300 supermarkets across the region. Fruvana is the next step in that journey: a place where we can share the same freshness and care directly with families. We’re proud to bring this story to Mount Olive and honored to become a part of this amazing community.
Former Mayor Licitra Receives Lifetime Achievement Award
Netcong Resident Related to Declaration Signer
BY ELSIE WALKER STAFF WRITER
AREA - Looking at the Declaration of Independence, there are the signatures of many historical figures. But for one Netcong resident, a certain name stands out. It is the name of a relative that she’s traced back through her genealogy and is related to through a grandfather: Dr. Benjamin Rush. Dr. Rush’s proud relative is Amanda Rush. The latter Rush has gathered information on Dr. Rush from a variety of sources. Recently, she shared some tidbits of information from what she has found which introduce her relative and just some of the things he did.
Amanda Rush’s research shows that her descendants were from England. The first to be born in America was John Harvey Rush in 1712.
He lived in Byberry, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as it was described in those days. A son, Benjamin Rush, was born on December 24, 1745 in Byberry.
Through looking at various sources, it was discovered that Benjamin Rush went abroad as a student to study medicine at a college in Edinburgh, Scotland from 1766 – 1768. After he came back home, Dr. Rush ran a medical practice and was a leading physician and civic leader. Rush was elected to the Second Continental Congress in 1776 and was a signer of The Declaration of Independence. Looking at the different information she gathered, Amanda Rush pointed out that research shares that signing the Declaration of Independence was dangerous and
some signers feared for their lives.
Amanda Rush said that what she is most proud of Dr. Rush for “was that he stuck up for the country, wanted it to be independent, and signed the Declaration of Independence.”
Dr. Rush died in 1813. Besides signing the Declaration of Independence, he was a leader in education and health. His study of mental disorders led him to be one of the founders of American Psychiatry. He was for free public schools and improved education for women. Also, he was opposed to slavery.
As for the more personal side of his life, Amanda Rush has done some research into that, too.
Dr. Rush’s father-in-law Richard Stockton, the gov-
Free Butterfly Walks
AREA - New Jersey Conservation Foundation will hold two free butterfly walks – on Friday, July 11, and Friday, Aug. 1 – as part of its “Coffee & Conservation” series of morning educational events.
Held at the Bamboo Brook Outdoor Education Center at 170 Longview Road, the walks begin at 9:30 a.m. with coffee provided by Black River Roasters and a brief discussion about species that may be spotted. The group will then take
a leisurely stroll through the meadows of Bamboo Brook with experts from the North American Butterfly Association. The walks will end by about 11:30 a.m.
“This is a great opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee, learn about New Jersey’s incredible diversity of butterflies, and take a walk in a beautiful setting,” said Bill Lynch, organizer of the Coffee & Conservation series, which also includes spring and fall bird walks.
ernor of New Jersey at the time, was also a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Rush had married Stockton’s daughter, Julia, on January 11, 1776. They had 12 children. My Dearest Julia, is a book of love letters written by Dr. Rush while courting Julia Stockton and afterwards, which were preserved by Julia Rush Biddle Henry, a great great granddaughter and made into the book. Amanda Rush was able to get a copy of it and has included it as part of her Dr. Rush research.
Among Dr. Rush’s friends were John Adams and Benjamin Franklin. From Macculloch Hall Historical Museum in Morristown, Amanda Rush was able to get a booklet with copies of the text of preserved historical letters. One is from
Abigail Adams to Julia Rush. They were also great friends. Another piece of research is a 1991 Star Ledger newspaper clipping. It is about a tradition at a cemetery at a Presbyterian Church in Pluckemin, New Jersey concerning the gravesite of a buried British soldier from the revolutionary war, William Leslie. What is the connection between Dr. Rush and a buried British soldier? Looking at Wikipedia, Amanda Rush had learned the story of Dr. Rush and the Leslies. During the time that Dr. Rush was abroad studying medicine, the Leslies gave him room and board. A deep friendship was formed. When the war broken out, Rush received word from the Leslies that young William Leslie was serving in the British army
and fighting in the war. After the battle at Princeton, which was won by the revolutionaries, Rush received word that young Leslie was one of the casualties. Rush appealed to George Washington, that Leslie get a military funeral. Leslie did, with Washington in attendance. Each year, the Daughters of Britian Empire put a union jack on Leslie’s grave. Amanda Rush visited Leslie’s resting place last year. She said she thought she’d stop by and honor his grave, noting that her family had started in England. Amanda Rush has done quite a bit of research into Dr. Rush and sums it up this way: “It’s an honor to know where you came from, and who you came from, and what they did before you.”
Offered on July 11 and Aug. 1
Among the colorful butterfly species that have been spotted on previous walks are monarchs, eastern tiger swallowtails, coral hairstreaks, great spangled fritillaries, summer azures, little wood-satyrs and silver-spotted skippers. Coffee & Conservation events are free and open to the public, but advance registration is requested for planning purposes. To register online, go to New Jersey Conservation’s events calendar at www.
njconservation.org/events/. Walks are generally held rain or shine, but may be cancelled in the event of heavy rain or lightning.
To learn more about the butterfly and bird walks, contact Lynch at blynch@njconservation.org. For more information about butterflies, visit the North American Butterfly Association website at www. naba.org/.
Bamboo Brook, owned by the Morris County Parks Sys-
tem and home to New Jersey Conservation Foundation’s main office, is 100-acre park with a mix of wooded trails and open meadows.
About New Jersey Conservation Foundation New Jersey Conservation Foundation is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, statewide organization devoted to preserving land and protecting nature throughout New Jersey’s rural, suburban, and urban landscapes for the benefit of all.
Since 1960, we have preserved more than 140,000 acres of open space, farmland, and parks. We also manage 17 nature preserves, conduct public outreach and education programs, and advocate for sensible land use and climate policies that will protect the health of New Jersey communities for generations to come. For more information, go to www.njconservation.org.
From left to right: Feride, Muhsin, Zubeyir, Raffaele Ruggiero, Mayor Joe Nicastro, Onur, Abdullah, Batuhan, Selim, Fatih, Mohammed, and Mehmet.
On June 18, Former Mayor Paul Licitra was honored by Scouting America Patriots’ Path Council for a Lifetime
Achievemnt Award. Pictured area: Erica Valvano, Christopher E. Klein, Lee Vartan, Thomas D. Sellaro, Paul Licitra, and Jason Karr.
When You Get A Bad Medical Report: Never Give Up! Never
BY RICHARD MABEY, JR. GUEST WRITER
AREA - If you get a bad medial report from your doctor, the last thing you ever want to do, is to feel sorry for yourself. And, above all, never ever give up hope. Never give up hope! First and foremost, pray for your own healing. That may sound like it’s being selfish. But it’s really not. When you are faced with a serious illness, it is a time when you need to know that God will guide you, in all ways. The good Lord may lead you to talk to a friend about your illness, and your friend may have the name of a doctor who specializes in treating your very specific illness. The point it this: do not ever give up hope. Since I was diag-
nosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, in December of 2023, I have been to six cardiologists. One of these doctors, well meaning, had guided me to looking into Hospice Care. I knew in my heart of hearts, that I wasn’t ready for that step, quite yet. Keep the fight alive in your heart and mind. Be courageous and bold in your fight to survive and to live as long as you possibly can. Go within to find your truth. Read the holy scriptures of your faith. Pray and pray and pray for healing. Not to sound like a broken record, but never giver up! Never give up! I read and study about Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy,
Ever Give Up!
two to three hours a day. I keep my mind open to all healing avenues. You cannot always count on just treating a disease with just pharmaceutical prescriptions. I am not putting down conventional medicine, but it is important to read and study and investigate cutting edge healing modalities. I just cannot stress it enough. There is real power in praying for your own healing. It may sound like it’s being selfish. But it’s not. God loves you more than you can possibly ever imagine. For us, as humble humans, to understand the infinite wisdom of God, is like trying to explain Einstein’s Theory of Relativity to an ant.
God loves you more than you will ever know. Never underestimate the power of prayer. Not to sound like a broken record, but read, study and investigate any and all cutting edge healling modalities for your specific illness. There is real healing power in having hope, burning in your heart. Keep the flame of hope burning brightly in your heart.
In December of 2023, my cardiologist was well meaning when she told me that she estimated that I had about two years left to live. You see, in HCM the Left Ventricle becomes very thick and hardened. So much so that it loses its ability to have the elasticity
to fully pump blood. Fro the most part, most HCM patients can be traced to have a genetic mutation of the MY-H7 Gene. Since December of 2023, I have never ever allowed my heart and mind to fall into despair. Living in despair and feeling sorry for oneself, is walking in the valley of death, the dark forest of hopelessness, the trail to defeat. If you are facing a serious illness, please keep your chin up. Fuel the fire of hope, in your heart, with solemn and earnest prayer. Never give up! Never surrender! Never ever give up! Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has recently had two books published.
He currently hosts a YouTube Channel entitled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard may be contacted at richardmabeyjr@gmail.com.
National Nonprofit Petco Love Invests in Eleventh Hour Rescue to Save and Improve the Lives of Pets in Northern New Jersey
AREA - Eleventh Hour Rescue is set to receive a $5,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for pets in Northern New Jersey. Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested nearly $410 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. And Petco Love helps find loving homes for pets in partnership with Petco and more than 4,000 organizations — like ours — across North
America, with nearly 7 million pets adopted and counting.
“Our investment in Eleventh Hour Rescue is part of more than $12M in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. “Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us. We launched Petco Love Lost, a free national lost and found database that uses photo-matching technol-
ogy to simplify the search for lost pets.”
“This investment will go incredibly far in allowing us to continue our lifesaving rescue work. The cost of rescue, transport, food, shelter, and general and emergency vetting can be overwhelming, and the number of pets in need only continues to grow. We’re tremendously grateful to Petco Love for their generosity to the rescue community—we consider them a true partner in the work we do,” said Kelly Miller, President of Eleventh Hour Rescue.
Eleventh Hour Rescue is a nonprofit, no-kill, animal res-
cue located in Flanders, New Jersey that has been serving Morris County, New Jersey since 2004. In the 20+ years since its founding, Eleventh Hour Rescue has saved nearly 50,000 pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and Guinea pigs, from euthanasia. Largely volunteer-run, EHR is both kennel and foster-based with a storefront housing cats in the Rockaway mall and an adoption center and thrift-shop in the Roxbury mall. For more information about Eleventh Hour Rescue, visit ehrdogs.org. Learn more about Petco Love here: petcolove. org
A Warrior’s Story: The Life and Legacy of Jamie Smith
BY MEGAN ROCHE STAFF WRITER
AREA - In A Warrior’s Story, you’ll meet and learn about all the sides of Jamie Smith. Smith was a West Morris Central (WMC) High School graduate who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving as a US Army Ranger during the Battle of Mogadishu in 1993. You’ll hear from Jamie’s former teachers, his Army Ranger battle buddies, and how his legacy still lives on to this day in the halls of WMC. This series will be an on-going feature in the months ahead.
As news of the attack in Somalia spread across the world, West Morris Central teacher Dennis O’Connell received a phone call at 2 in the morning from Debbie Gonzalez, a colleague, who was also close with Jamie Smith.
“I took it personally that he was killed. It was such a waste of a great life,” O’Connell said. After spending the rest of the morning on the phone, O’Connell had to head to the school, where he came face to face with students dealing with the tragedy of losing Smith.
“I really tried to explain to the kids what the reality of war is. I tried to tell them how there were no rules in war and talked it through in the way
that war is permanent chaos. It’s really just a question of who gets taken out and who doesn’t get taken out. It was very sad. I talked about Jamie as much as I could in my classes,” O’Connell said.
As details started to emerge about when Smith’s remains were going to be returned to the family, work began on planning his funeral service. Gonzales, as well as O’Connell, both spoke at the funeral service.
“It was hard to speak at the service. I had spoken at other friend’s funerals but that was a really hard day. I couldn’t get past the point that he was so young and the way that he died was so senseless. He died doing what he loved to do, he loved being a Ranger but I just couldn’t get my head wrapped around the fact that he was so young,” O’Connell recalls.
Surrounded by family and friends, The Smith Family gathered at Our Lady of the Mountain Church to say their final goodbyes to Jamie.
“The place was packed. There was not a dry eye in the church that day,” O’Connell said.
Smith was laid to rest at Fort Benning, Georgia amongst other fallen comrades.
A Warrior’s Story: The Life and Legacy of Jamie Smith will continue in the August 2025 issue, where you’ll learn
• The local trusted media service since 1990
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About Eleventh Hour Res-
cue Eleventh Hour Rescue, based in Morris County NJ, is a primarily volunteer run, nokill rescue that saves animals on Death Row from high-kill shelters. Eleventh Hour Rescue dogs and cats are cared for by our compassionate and dedicated team of volunteers and staff. Whether in foster homes, our kennel or adoption centers, each dog and cat receives a clean and safe living environment, fresh food and water, medical attention, and most importantly an abundance of love and care until they find their FURever homes. We are dedicated to educating the community about the animal over-population problem and the importance of spaying and neutering. All funds go directly to supporting our animals and their needs. We are an eligible charity under federal code 501(c)3 founded in 2004.
About Petco Love
Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999, we’ve empowered animal welfare organizations by investing nearly $410 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We’ve helped find loving homes for nearly 7 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide. Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Is love calling you? Join us. Visit PetcoLove. org or follow us on Facebook Instagram X Threads and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.
Jamie Smith’s final resting place at Fort Benning, Georgia.
how Smith’s legacy still lives on in the hallways at West Morris Central.
BY HENRY M. HOLDEN
AREA - At first glance, searching for the real Molly Pitcher, the legendary heroine of the American Revolutionary War, seems about as pointless as searching for a needle in a haystack. Nevertheless, legendary figures hold a fascination and usually contain a kernel or more of historical authenticity. In the case of the patriot-cannoneer Molly Pitcher, culling the fictitious from the real can be a challenge. She has held a revered place in the patriotic lore of the American Revolution, right next to Betsy Ross, while real female patriots such as Deborah Sampson, a revolutionary soldier (a.k.a. Robert Shurtleff), are rarely mentioned in survey history texts.
More than two-and-a half centuries after the Revolution, Molly’s popularity succeeds, extending even into the virtual world of cyberspace by Web sites that allow browsers to discuss whether Molly Pitcher was a feminist. While all this good-natured speculation has not led to any new information or for that matter anything of substance, it is quite probable that historical research can still render some interesting insights about Molly and, more important, about the role of women who served in the military during the American Revolutionary War.
Perhaps you have not heard of her, but if you travel southbound on the New Jersey Turnpike, at mile marker 71, you are just one of the tens of thousands of travelers who see a sign for Molly Pitcher, and a Rest Area for motorists and truckers. There are thousands of motorists who pass the sign but keep
BY RICHARD MABEY JR. GUEST WRITER
AREA - In the Spring of 1946, my Dad returned home from having served at Hickam Airfield during the Second World War. Home was the house that Dad’s father, Watson Mabey, built around 1918. Dad’s family home was located at the end of Mabey Lane in Lincoln Park. The garage, that to the best of knowledge still stands, was built by Dad and his brother Edward, just before they both enlisted to serve in the armed services during World War II. When Dad came home from the war, he worked as a truck driver for Moon Carrier in Paterson. Dad saved his money and very soon bought a motorcycle. Despite the protests of his mom, Bertha Storms Mabey, Dad drove his motorcycle all around Lincoln Park, Towaco and Boonton.
There was one place in Boonton that was Dad’s fa-
Good Golly Miss Molly
on driving, because everybody must be going somewhere.
But who was Molly Pitcher and what did she do to deserve special recognition?
Molly Pitcher was born on October 13, 1754, near Trenton. In 1768, she moved to Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where she met William Hays, a local barber. They married on July 24, 1769.
Molly Pitcher is a Revolutionary War heroine and a nickname given to a woman who fought in the American Revolution. She is most often identified as Mary Ludwig Hays, who fought in the Battle of Monmouth in June 1778. Her fame is derived from her reputation of continuously delivering pitchers of cold water to the thirsty American soldiers, and cold water, to cool the cannons. When her husband was injured by a fatal cannon shot she took his place on the firing line. Some have called her one of the first American feminist.
It was a blistering hot day on June 28, 1778, when ten thousand British soldiers engaged thirteen thousand American troops during the battle of Monmouth. One of those Continental troopers was seventeen -year-old private Joseph Plumb Martin, of the Connecticut Regiment.
More than half a century passed before Martin decided to publish a memoir of his Revolutionary War experience; It included, a woman, whose husband had belonged to an artillery unit and was mortally wounded. Martin called it, “one little incident.”
“While attending her husband’s wounds and while
reaching for a cartridge, a cannon shot coming directly from the enemy landed between her legs near the lower part of her body, without doing any damage other than tearing her petty coat in half. Looking at it with apparent unconcern she observed that it was lucky it did not pass a little higher, for in that case it might have carried away something else and continued her occupation.”
The actions in the story of Molly Pitcher are generally attributed to Mary Ludwig Hays, who was married to William Hays, an artilleryman in the Continental Army. She joined him at the army’s winter camp at Valley Forge in 1777, and was present at the Battle of Monmouth, where she served as a water- carrier. Her husband fell from a cannon shot and she took his place swabbing and loading the cannon and was later commended by George Washington. (as recorded by Joseph Plumb Martin in his memoir published in 1830,)
Washington praised Molly and conferred on her the brevet of captain, hence her title Captain Molly. He also said that she should have a pension for the rest of her life. Then, French officers who had enlisted in the American’s regiment loved her and had the pleasure of giving “Marie” a token of their appreciation by showering her with their extra silver coins.
Earlier that year, festivities had been planned to celebrate the 150 anniversary of the Monmouth battle. Stamp collectors petitioned the U.S. Post Office Department for a commemorative stamp to mark the anniversary. After receiving
several rejections, New Jersey congressman Ernest Ackerman, a stamp collector himself, enlisted the assistance of the majority leader of the House of Representatives, John Q. Tilson.
Postmaster General Harry New a suspected anti-feminist steadfastly refused to issue a commemorative stamp specifically acknowledging the battle or Molly Pitcher. In a telegram to Tilson, Postmaster New explained, «Finally, however, I have agreed to put a surcharged title on ten million of the regular issue Washington 2-cent stamps bearing the name ‹Molly Pitcher.›»
There has been criticism that there was no substantive evidence that a “Molly Pitcher” ever existed. However, one eyewitness account does count. and in addition, there is one account written less than a week after the battle. The writer in question was a medical Doctor Waldo, a physician who was with the Continental Army who wrote in his diary three days later and what he writes is Vitaly important. The following words are taken from his diary.
“One of the camp women with me and I must give a little praise for her gallant, whom she attended in the battle. Being shot down she immediately took of his gun and cartridges, and like a Spartan heroine, fought with astonishing regularity discharging the piece with as much, bravery and destruction as any soldier present.”
There are so many legends surrounding Molly Pitcher that some historians believe her story is a combination of
several people. Although there has been ample research done mostly by her descendants. An independent review of the documents has led some historians to conclude that Pitcher cannot be identified with certainty.
Most sources identify her birth name as Mary Ludwig, daughter of Maria Margaretha and Johann George Ludwig, and identify her first husband as William Hays (also sometimes referred to as John Hays), who was in the artillery.Hays fought in the Battle of Monmouth in Freehold, New Jersey, on June 28, 1778, a brutally hot day.
His wife was present as well, and she made countless trips to a nearby spring to fill pitchers of cold water for soldiers to drink and to pour over their cannons to cool them down.
As legend has it, the soldiers nicknamed her Molly Pitcher
I Remember Dad: The Motorcycle Man
vorite place to visit, that of his brother Earl’s home on the 600 block of Boonton Avenue. Dad would often visit his brother and his brother’s wife, Eleanor. For across the street from his brother’s home, was the Kemmerer Homestead, where my mom, Janet Kemmerer lived. Mom was the youngest child of the nine children of Edmund and Lydia.
Mom was the Manager of the Bakery Department of the A&P Grocery Store in Boonton. It was my Aunt Eleanor who gave Mom Dad’s mailing address at Hickam Airfield. And, about once a week, Mom would send Dad homemade cookies or pies.
Mom loved to read books and would often read while sitting on the long, rock wall that stood in front of the Kemmerer Homestead along Boonton Avenue. There was a tall maple
best
tree near the sidewalk of the old Kemmerer Homestead. And Dad would sit upon his motorcycle, beneath the shade of the maple tree, and talk and talk and talk with Mom.
At first Mom’s Dad did not appreciate my father all that well. The Kemmerers were very strict Methodists. And, Grandpa Kemmerer did not want his youngest daughter talking to a man who drove a motorcycle.
It was Dad’s brother Earl, who told Dad that he should trade in his motorcycle for a car. I know for a fact that Dad was torn between his love for Mom and his love for his motorcycle. I know this because, when I was attending County College, at 19, hiking the Appalachian Trail with Dad, my beloved father told me the story of his motorcycle era.
Long story short, Dad did not sell his motorcycle right away.
He kept in the old garage at the end of Mabey Lane and would borrow his brother Edward’s car, to travel to Boonton to visit Mom. Soon after Dad stopped riding his motorcycle to the old Kemmerer Homestead, that he began gaining favor with my maternal grandfather.
One day, when I was in my early twenties, on a visit with Grandma Mabey, Grandma told me more about Dad’s love for his motorcycle. That even after Dad retired his motorcycle and kept it stored in the garage, Dad would go into the garage and just sit on the motorcycle for long periods of time.
I often wonder where I would be if Dad had not decided to retire his motorcycle. For truly, Grandpa Kemmerer strongly disapproved of Mom talking with a man who drove a motorcycle.
To the best of my knowl-
edge, the old garage at the end of Mabey Lane still stands. Also, to the best of my knowledge, the rock wall along the 600 block of Boonton Avenue still stands. Before my soul leaves this physical body, I want to return to Lincoln Park, walk down Mabey Lane and just look at the old garage, where Dad once retired his shining motorcycle.
Also, I plan on walking along the 600 block of Boonton Avenue. And, if I get the courage, just sit upon that old rock wall for a minute or two. I do hope I get to visit these two landmarks, before I pass.
Fate and Destiny are strange twins. I often wonder where I would be if Dad chose not to retire his motorcycle. Many times, over the years, Mom told me the story of how her father first disapproved of Dad talking to her, because of his motor-
for her tireless efforts. But the legend only began with her new name.
According to accounts, Pitcher witnessed her husband collapse at his cannon, unable to continue with the fight. She immediately dropped her water pitcher and took his place at the cannon, manning the weapon throughout the remainder of the battle until the colonists achieved victory. According to the National Archives, a witness documented her heroic acts, reporting that a piece of a cannon ball passed through her legs on the battlefield, leaving her unscathed: After the war, Mary Hays married George McCauley, and some forty-four years after the war the state of Pennsylvania awarded her with an annual pension of forty dollars for her heroism at Monmouth.
The grave and monument of Molly Pitcher, located in Carlisle PA
Dad on his motorcycle, during the Summer of 1946. cycle. From Earth to Heaven, thank you Dad for retiring your motorcycle all those years ago. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has had two books published. He currently has a daily YouTube program, entitled “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard can be reached at richardjamesmabey@gmail. com.
BY HENRY M. HOLDEN
AREA - Annie Oakley (born Phoebe Ann Mosey; August 13, 1860 – November 3, 1926) was an American sharpshooter and folk heroine. If you were born toward the end of the 20th century you probably have not heard about Annie Oakley. She developed hunting skills as a child to provide for her impoverished family in western Ohio.
Annie’s father was 61 years old at the time of Annie’s birth and became an invalid from hypothermia during a blizzard in late 1865, dying of pneumonia in early 1866 at age 66.
Born in 1860, Annie was the sixth of Jacob and Susan’s nine children, and the fifth of the seven surviving.
Because of poverty following her father’s death, Annie did not regularly attend school as a child, although she did attend later in childhood and in adulthood.
In the spring of 1870, Annie was “bound out” to a local family to help care for their infant son. They had falsely promised her fifty cents per week (equivalent to $12 in 2024) and an education. The couple had originally wanted someone who could pump water and cook and who was bigger. She spent about two years in servitude, to them, enduring mental and physical abuse. Once, the wife put Annie out in the freezing cold without
BY HENRY M. HOLDEN STAFF WRITER
AREA - For centuries, people across southern New Jersey and Delaware have allegedly encountered a horse-headed flying demon. Legend has it that in the dense woods of the New Jersey Pine Barrens lurks a mythological beast known as the Jersey Devil.
With the head of a horse, the wings of a bat, and talons fitting a dragon, the Jersey Devil has terrorized the imaginations of New Jersey residents for almost 300 years. It is commonly believed that the demonic being was the cursed progeny of a bewitched Quaker woman and escaped to the bogs where it could be heard wailing and killing local prey.
The story of the Jersey Devil is an authentic folk legend. It is as varied as the number of people who claim to have seen or heard him. For over two decades, tales have circulated about the nocturnal ramblings of a creature emerging from the mists of a lonely desolate marsh. As interest in the supernatural has also given rise to an increase in demon -fledged, tales that have grown to blend folk belief with South Jersey
Little Sure Shot Annie Oakley
shoes, as a punishment because she had fallen asleep over some mending. Annie referred to them as “the wolves.” Even in her autobiography, she never revealed the couple’s real names.
Annie began trapping before age 7, and shooting and hunting by age 8, to support her siblings and her widowed mother. She sold her hunted game to locals in Greenville, and to shopkeepers such as Charles and G. Anthony Katzenberger, who shipped it to hotels in Cincinnati and other cities. She also sold game to restaurants and hotels in northern Ohio.
At age 15, she won a shooting contest against an experienced marksman, Frank E. Butler, whom she married in1876 at the age of 16,but no children were ever to come forth from the union.
The pair joined the Buffalo Bill touring circus in 1885, performing around the United States and in Europe. Audiences were stunned to see her shooting a cigar from her husband›s hand or splitting a playing-card edge-on at 30 paces.
Her skills paid off, the mortgage on her mother’s farm when Annie was 15.
The following year (1886) they signed up for the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show. Annie was featured as the “Lovely Lass of the Western Plains, Lit-
tle Sure Shot, the one and only Annie Oakley.”
She earned more money on her tours than anyone except Buffalo Bill himself.
Tired of living in hotels the couple built a house in Nutley N.J.. The only odd thing about the house was it had no closets. She had become so used to living out of suitcases that she decided she did not need or want closets. From 1892 to 1904, Oakley and Butler made this their home in Nutley.
Annie soon became well known throughout the region. On Thanksgiving Day 1875, the Baughman & Butler shooting act was being performed in Cincinnati. Traveling marksman, and former dog trainer Frank E. Butler, (1847–1926), an Irish immigrant, placed a $100 bet per side (equivalent to $2,900 in 2024) with Cincinnati hotel owner Jack Frost that Butler could beat any local fancy shooter. Frost arranged a shooting match between Butler and the 15-year-old Annie, saying, “The last opponent Butler expected was a five-foot-tall 15-year-old girl named Annie.”
After missing his 25th shot, Butler lost the match and the bet. Another account says that Butler hit his last shot, but the bird fell dead about 2 feet beyond the boundary line.
According to a modern-day
account in The Cincinnati Enquirer, it is possible that the shooting match took place in 1881 and not 1875. It appears the time of the event was never recorded. Biographer Shirl Kasper states the shooting match took place in the spring of 1881 near Greenville, possibly in North Star as mentioned by Butler during interviews in 1903 and 1924. Other sources seem to coincide with the North Fairmount location near Cincinnati if the event occurred in 1881.
Oakley promoted the service of women in combat operations for the United States armed forces. She wrote a letter to President William McKinley on April 5, 1898, «offering the government the services of a company of 50 ‹lady sharpshooters› who would provide their own arms and ammunition should the U.S. go to war with Spain.» She never received a reply.
After a railroad accident in 1901, Oakley was severely injured but recovered after temporary paralysis and five spinal operations. She left the Buffalo Bill show in 1902, and began a less taxing acting career in a stage play written especially for her, The Western Girl. Oakley played the role of Nancy Berry who used a pistol, a rifle and rope to outsmart a group
of outlaws. The after effects of the accident forced her into less stressful taxing routine. She toured in a play written about her career. She also instructed women in marksmanship, believing strongly in female self-defense. Her stage acts were filmed for one of Thomas Edison’s earliest Kinetoscopes.
Throughout her career, it is believed that Oakley taught more than 15,000 women how to use a gun. Oakley believed strongly that it was crucial for women to learn how to use a gun, as not only a form of physical and mental exercise, but also to defend themselves. She said: “I would like to see every woman know how to handle guns as naturally as they know how to handle babies.”
In 1904, sensational cocaine prohibition stories were selling well. Newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst published a false story that Oakley had been arrested for stealing to support a cocaine habit. The woman arrested was a burlesque performer who told Chicago police that her name was Annie Oakley.
Most of the newspapers that printed the story had relied on the Hearst article, and they immediately retracted it with apologies upon learning of the libelous error. Hearst, however, tried to avoid paying the anticipated
The Jersey Devil Spooks South Jersey
history.
To understand the legend of the Jersey Devil, we must first know his birthplace. It is a remote region extending 1,700 square miles across southeastern New Jersey. It is a giant aquifer with dense stands of white cedar trees. Inside, the air is calm, still and cool - the shade is heavy. The cedar stands throughout the swamp stain the streams red with tannic acid.
One area of stunted trees is called the Pygmy Forest. While many consider it a barren wilderness, twenty-seven varieties of orchids grow there. In the early days, travel was difficult because the cedar swamps were great obstacles. Some roads are old Native trails. Others are old stagecoach roads. Some roads are paved; others are r0cky and rutted. Roads led to places named Hog Wallow, Double Trouble, Sooy Place and Mary Ann Furnace. These names date back to pre-colonial times when settlers first came to New Jersey.
One of the most famous stories tells of a place called Leeds Point. On a stormy night in 1735, a Quaker woman gave
birth to a child during a thunderstorm. The room flickered with candlelight. The wind howled. Some believed her to be a sorceress. The impoverished woman, known as Mother Leeds, was believed to have other children – as many as twelve. Some say the child was born deformed. Some say she cursed the child because of her dreadful straits. Other accounts say the child was born normal and took on odd characteristics later, such as an elongated body, winged shoulders, a large horselike head, cloven hoofs, and a thick tail. According to legend, the child was confined until it made its escape either out the cellar door or up the chimney. The Jersey Devil had been born.
Designated in 1938 as the country’s only state demon, the Jersey Devil is described as a kangaroo-like creature with the face of a horse, the head of a dog, bat-like wings, horns and a tail. But the descriptions vary depending on the viewer. For decades this mysterious creature is said to prowl through the marshes of Southern New Jersey and emerge periodically to rage through the towns and
cities.
The most widely held belief about the origin of the Jersey Devil is that Mrs. Leeds, a resident of Estellville, was distressed when she learned she was expecting for the thirteenth time. In disgust, she cried out, “Let it be the devil!” The story continues that the child arrived, and it was a baby devil. The creature then gave a screech unfolded its wings and flew out the window and into the adjacent swamp.
Countless stories have circulated describing the Devil’s experiences, raiding chicken coops and farms, destroying crops and killing animals. His presence has been seen and felt by many in at least fifty different towns when he emerges from his natural lair in the Pinelands and wanders throughout Southern New Jersey. He is sometimes fascinating and terrorizing to the residents. Possess were constantly formed to apprehend the Devil, but to no avail. At one point, as much as $100,000 was offered for the capture of the Jersey Devil, dead or alive. Several reports of the Jersey Devil’s death also
proved to be questionable and even the scientific community could not explain its existence.
According to the legend, Jane Leeds (sometimes called Mother Leeds) fell in love with a British soldier and was cursed for her crime. This was around the Revolutionary War era.
At the time of its birth, there was a noisy and dangerous thunderstorm. The room’s candle lights flickered. The wind howled. Some believed that she was a sorceress. Some versions of these incidents vary depending on the viewer.
It was Mays Landing where a Mrs. Leeds became pregnant and when the baby was delivered Mrs. Leeds rejected her baby, wishing a stork would deliver a devil. Thus, a winged devil was born. Some versions also have a clergyman subsequently attempting an unsuccessful exorcism.
Belief in the Jersey Devil (aka Leeds Devil) is quite real and based on records of concrete experiences. Reliable people, including police, government officials, businessmen and many others whose integrity is beyond question, have
court judgments of $20,000 (equivalent to $700,000 in 2024) by sending an investigator to Darke County, Ohio, with the intent of collecting reputation-smearing gossip from Oakley’s past. The investigator found nothing. Oakley spent much of the next six years winning all but one of her 55 libel lawsuits against newspapers. Oakley collected less judgments than the total of her legal expenses. Oakley died on November 3, 1926, and her husband Frank Butler followed her in death just 18 days later. According to B. Haugen, Butler was so distraught he stopped eating and dies 18 days later. He was buried next to Oakley’s ashes in Greenville, Ohio. Her story has been adapted several times for stage, musicals and films, including Annie Get Your Gun.
Some people have described it as a kangaroo-like creature with the face of a horse, the head of a dog, bat-like wings, horns and a tail.
witnessed the Devil’s activities or so they say.
To this day, people traveling down the Garden State Parkway or the Atlantic City Expressway have reported sightings of “something” or tell stories of strange events. Many continue to believe that the legendary being is still around disturbing the region and will continue to do so for generations to come.
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