Mt Olive All

MOUNT OLIVE LIFE

Budd Lake Mom Brings Endless Story Time at Home and On the Go

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - “The end” ….a popular catch phrase on the final page of a book does not exist for this local mom who has taken her love for reading to her kids to a whole new level.

Joanna Randazzo of Budd Lake started a new chapter two months ago by reading to thousands of children on her YouTube channel and Instagram page. Her initiative—Once Upon a Page with Miss JoJo— is free to any listeners who desire to tune in.

“I take videos of myself reading children’s books and then post them to my YouTube Channel for children of all ages to watch and listen to,” shares Randazzo, a mother of two who works as a postpartum nurse at Morristown Medical Center.

“I try and make story time come to life in a fun, silly and entertaining way!” she says.

Randazzo provides “Hours of entertainment while learning through books. I am also col-

laborating with children’s book authors to read their books!”

Reading aloud to children boosts language skills, sparks imagination, strengthens bonds, builds vocabulary, improves focus and encourages a love of reading.

“It is a way to expand children’s knowledge on different topics in an enjoyable way for them to learn,” says Randazzo.

But children are not the only ones who learn and benefit from story time.

“The idea for this channel was inspired by the sweetest book buddy I know—my oldest son,” says Randazzo, who has a 3-year-old son and a 1-year-old daughter. “From the time he was tiny, we would spend hours reading the same stories again and again. But instead of feeling repetitive, those moments became something I looked forward to every single day. With each retelling, we’d find new ways to make the stories silly, surprising and

full of giggles. That special time helped us build an incredible bond, and it’s something I’ll treasure forever.”

Right now, Randazzo is reading mostly children’s books appropriate for those aged 0-6 years old.

“There is a mixture of classic books and new books,” she shares.

She is also interested in reading books for older children as well as incorporate learning materials for school aged kids and chapter books.

Reading to her two children has been such a positive experience that she wants to share that joy with others.

“I created Once Upon a Page with Miss JoJo not only to share that joy with other children, but also to give fellow moms (and dads, grandparents, and caregivers) a few precious moments to breathe—whether that’s throwing in a load of laundry, taking a shower or just enjoying a well-deserved cup

of coffee,” she explains.

She hopes the parents also utilize the story channel for some “me time.”

“The YouTube channel gives parents a little break and peace of mind,” she says. “It is as if the children are at the library but in their own homes. An educational way to watch TV.”

Another nice thing about her initiative is the convenience as the videos are always available for story time.

“There are over 40 videos on there now and many more coming!” she says. “I would love to hear recommendations too!”

What is also great is that it is free for all to view.

“I have about 3.5K views so far!” she says proudly, “from all over the U.S. to Canada! It would be wonderful for more people to subscribe to the YouTube Channel if they find themselves or their kids enjoying the books being read. Don’t forget to share with family and

AVM Warrior Walkway Underway

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - Too many wars and so many heroes, military men and women who fought in battles to protect America’s liberty and freedom—our nation has so much to be grateful for especially with its 250th anniversary approaching next year.

To denote all of those conflicts the United States has been involved in and its war heroes, The All Veterans Memorial will be adding On Behalf of a Grateful Nation Warrior Walkway at its site in Budd Lake. Board displays with heroes’ photos will be going up as early as this September for visitors to see and honor.

“Beginning with the Revolutionary War to the Global War on Terror, the display of

war heroes will line the entire asphalt walkway located at the far corner of Parking Lot A, between the soccer field and War Horse and War Dog Memorials,” explains AVM Founder Charlie Uhrmann. “Temporary benches will be installed for the convenience of our visitors.”

It was Uhrmann’s idea to create such a walkway and how fitting it be placed at the

AVM, a one-of-a-kind veterans memorial that serves as a place for remembrance, prayer, volunteerism, creativity and education.

Established almost 20 years ago, the AVM has become a premier memorial in New Jersey with ceremonial grounds for multiple vigils and events throughout the year. Individuals and families visit regularly to learn some American history and the battles fought, sponsor military pavers for friends and loved ones and pay respect to those who have served in the U.S. armed forces.

made the decision easy.”

Project Details

The 3’ x 5’ board panels will display 30 12” x 12” aluminum (action or military) photos of service members, details Uhrmann. A special coating will be added to protect the photos from weather and possible graffiti.

Panels will be categorized by war: A 12” x 24” historical war scene will show the treacherous condition of war.

friends too!

Listeners can turn in at https://youtube.com/@onceuponapagewithmissjojo?si=vmggg6XVF3sNHdMu

She is also on Instagram at

Once Upon a Page with Miss JoJo.

“It’s my hope that children find as much joy in listening to these stories as I do in reading them,” says Randazzo. “I want the kids to grab their favorite stuffie, cozy up and we’ll turn the page together.”

Budd Lake Community Event Warms Hearts & Helps Heroes

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - Four hours of family fun on July 5 raised money for the fire department, educated kids about fire and safety and melted some hearts.

AREA - The winners from June’s “Find Mr. MO the Mascot” are Vincent May; Flanders, Monica A. Smith; Budd Lake; Julia Zisa, Hackettstown and Irene Lindner; Netcong. The ads that “Mr. Moe” were in: Berk’s Furniture, Royal Lawns, Taste of Italy, P&J Landscaping, The Party Room and Vision Source. Thanks to everyone who enter and congratulations to our winners!

Uhrmann explains that the idea for the On Behalf of a Grateful Nation Warrior Walkway was inspired by Mt. Olive Parks and Recreation Ed Lata, who expressed wanting to honor his son who is currently serving in the U.S. Marine Corps.

“I had originally thought to purchase banners and affix them to the soccer field fence,” says Uhrmann. “After speaking to Hackettstown Home Depot Manager Ed Flynn regarding the project, he was immediately supportive of the idea.

“When our proposal was declined, Park & Recreation Department Head and longtime supporter John Geiger suggested free standing billboards,” shares Uhrmann. “He and I walked along the walkway discussing the details. Geiger’s offer to help bore the holes

“Sponsorship opportunities are available,” adds Uhrmann. “If your company or organization is seeking a way to show your support, we are offering sponsorship opportunities for $300 per 3’ x 5’ panel. Your name or the name of your organization/company will be donned front and center. As a sponsor, you will receive one of our limited edition challenge coins as a token of our appreciation.”

The price for a 12” x 12” aluminum photo plate which will include a certificate of authenticity that the photo played a key role in the AVM’s 250 Year Celebration of Independence is $98. Applications can be obtained by emailing: info@ allveteransmemorial.org or picked up during the All Veterans Memorial’s annual National POW/MIA 24 Hour Vigil set for Sept. 18-19.

“Several panels will begin PLEASE SEE WARRIOR WALKWAY, PAGE 2

The Fire Truck Tour for Kids and Family Night was sponsored by the Mountain Ridge Estates community in Budd Lake last month. Many kids and adults came out to the first-time event from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. to interact with their community while supporting a good cause.

“As part of our community’s [Mountain Ridge Estates] events we planned for the summer of 2025, we collaborated with our Budd Lake Fire Department to have them bring their fire trucks onsite so kids of our community can explore the fire engines and learn about fire and safety,” explains Visu Kondeti, president for Mountain Ridge Estates Homeowners Association.

“All food items were homemade,” says Kondeti. “We have lot of Indian food, sweets, pastries, cakes, fruit mocktails, fritters, lemonade.

One of the stalls was operated by adults who featured bakery items and conducted games for the kids.

“We raised a sum of $400 and community members generously donated $345,” he says. “A total of $745 was raised and handed over to the fire department.

“Kids of the community handed over handmade posters and greeting cards to the fire marshals,” shares Kondeti. “This melted their hearts, and they read every single one of them with joy. Chief Kevin [Maloney] spoke during the event and expressed happiness of his team being onsite and promised to come back next year.” Fire trucks were onsite between 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. “This was followed by families spending quality time togeth-

As part of this event, kids of the community raised money for the fire department by organizing food stalls with all proceedings going to the fire department. One of the newer communities in Budd Lake, it is located at 12 Force Drive. A total of 14 stalls were set up by the kids ranging in ages from 5 to 20.

PLEASE SEE HELPS HEROES, PAGE 2

“Dental implants have be-

General

Free Dental Implant Seminar

Dr.

come commonplace within the field of dentistry,” states Dr. Goldberg. “They can be utilized for single teeth, multiple teeth such as bridges or dentures, and even full arch tooth replacement such as hybrids or All-On-Four. The amount of information available on the internet can be overwhelming: it provides both education and confusion. I hope to share my knowledge and present some clarity to those individuals who feel they can improve their oral & overall health with dental implants.”

Dr. Goldberg is the owner of Morris County Dental Associates, a well-established dental practice located at the Roxbury Mall in Succasunna, NJ above the Bank Of America. He has been practicing dentistry for

Warrior Walkway...

FROM FRONT PAGE

being assembled in September, during our POW/MIA site preparation,” says Uhrmann. The photos will be ordered individually, and each photo plate will be denoted with the warrior’s name, rank, dates of service and branch of service. The war they served will be denoted at the top of the panel.

“Upon the closing of the display, sometime in Nov. 2026, the 12” x 12” photo plates will be available to the family member to keep as a keepsake memento of our nation’s 250 years of liberty and freedom,” adds Uhrmann.

While the AVM is in Mt. Olive, the photo display is not restricted to just local heroes.

“The All-Veterans Memo-

rial do not recognize any division in our offerings,” says Uhrmann. “We support One Nation Under God and therefore, consider it an honor to recognize all those who honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces.”

While Mt. Olive is also honoring heroes this year with its Hometown Hero Campaign this year, Uhrmann does not compare the two.

“We love and support the HomeTown Hero campaign— however, we believe our exhibit will give the visitors a better feel of the condition of war and those who endured such conditions,” says Uhrmann. “Our display will provide an upfront and personal experience for those who come to visit.

30 years, and has been placing & restoring dental implants for just as long. He is considered an expert in the field of dental implants, proven by his Diplomate status within the American Board of Oral Implantology and advanced degrees within other implant organizations. “Dental implants have always been an interest of mine. I sought out education early in my career and quickly turned into both a provider of the services to the public, and an educator to dentists who also share the interest.”

Dr. Goldberg intends to provide information regarding many implant topics: what implants are, what you can do with them, who is / is not a good candidate for implants, the treatment process, mainte-

We believe our chronological timeline of actual war-torn landscapes, along with the faces of our heroes, will invoke a greater level of education, thought and appreciation. We hope to achieve a walk back in time.”

Just as the celebration of the U.S. 250th anniversary comes around only once, this commemorative walkway is really a unique project to honor the countries’ military. “This is anticipated to be limited to the 250 Anniversary,” notes Uhrmann. “The Warrior Walkway is a small part of a much grander event.”

Stay tuned for more details of the AVM 250th Year Celebration set for June 14, 2026.

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FLANDERS/CHESTER

nance, expectations, complications, financials & financing, and more. One area he will spend time on is full-arch implants: this is a very common procedure that generates much interest, and he is well known for providing this service.

“We provide free consultations within our practice, but some people are just not at the point they are ready to move forward with their dental care. I have found seminars provide an anonymous way for people to start getting their thoughts together regarding what they know they will eventually

need.” As mentioned above, registration is required. The seminar will held at the Courtyard by Marriott located at 15 Howard Blvd in Mt. Arlington. It will start promptly at 9:30am with will last between 1 and 1.5 hours. To register for the seminar, please go to MorrisCountyDentist.com/seminar or email patientcare.mcda@ gmail.com with your first name, last name, and telephone number. ...About Dr. Goldberg / Disclaimers: Dr. Ira Goldberg has been performing implant procedures for 30 years. He is

a General Dentist. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology / Implant Dentistry, a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He performs all phases of implant dentistry at his office in Succasunna, NJ. He lectures to dentists in the field of implantology. He is also a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. For more information, please visit his website at www.MorrisCountyDentist.com

New Patient Special FREE Implant, Cosmetic, or General Dentistry Consultation

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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.

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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.

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Boy Scout Maps the Way For Hikers at Turkey Brook Park

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

MOUNT OLIVE - Turkey

Brook Park in Budd Lake is on the map, attracting those living near and far—

And now with its five new kiosks, trail blazers and hikers will have directions, safety tips and useful information to guide them along their way.

Aiden Newman, 17, of West Orange, completed this project last month to earn his Eagle Scout merit badge with Troop 6 in West Orange. A member since 2021, Newman has been a Boy Scout since 2015.

Led by his Scoutmaster Charles Coxe, Newman had seven scouts aged 15 to 18 help him with his project. He came up with the concept for his project from David Alexander, secretary of the Mt. Olive Twp. Open Space Advisory Board.

“My project was to assemble and deliver five trail kiosks

for the Mt. Olive Trails Department to use for a new trail system,” explains Newman. “These kiosks could be used to display maps, safety bulletins and helpful information for hikers.”

A graduate of West Orange High Schol this past June, Newman put in 17 hours to complete the project.

“I designed the concept with guidance from Mr. Alexander, bought the materials on June 11 and assembled my prototype on July 5,” details Newman. “Members of my Troop, parent leaders, my father and I, then assembled the remaining kiosks on July 13.

We completed the final touches, delivered the kiosks, and installed one of them on July 16, completing the project.”

With multiple trails that outline and intertwine throughout the area, multiple kiosks are

Helps Heroes...

FROM FRONT PAGE

“On

and interacting with them,” says Kondeti. “We appreciate the team making time out of their busy schedule to be in our community. It was a very nice memorable event to honor our local heroes, and this marks the beginning of many events to follow for us.”

Kondeti says they organized the event with the Budd Lake

essential to help anyone navigate and find their way.

“My project aims to provide the Mt. Olive Trail Department an essential tool for

hikers to use while navigating the new trails in Turkey Brook Park,” he explains. “I picked this project because I love hiking and getting outdoors,

Fire Department this year and hope to continue the event with other organizations in the future.

and I wanted a project related to hiking and woodworking. I hope these kiosks encourage and assist those looking to experience the trails in Turkey Brook Park.”

Those who helped Newman with his project included: Neil and Eshe Newman (his parents), Charles and Ryan Coxe, Xavier and Johnny Kong, Akira Mura, Luke and JJ DelBello and Brian and Liam Coleman.

He spent approximately $800 out of pocket and he hopes to recoup some of those fund through his GoFundMe drive https://www.gofundme. com/f/support-aiden-newmans-eagle-scout-project

“It would be great to have support to finish funding the cost of sourcing the materials and to build any additional kiosks the trail may need this summer,” says Newman. “I also would like to encourage people to experience the trails and see the kiosks in person once they are all installed.”

From start to finish, Newman enjoyed the experience on working on this project and hopes its effort and value stands the test of time.

“This project left me feeling accomplished and happy,” says Newman. “My project gave me the opportunity to spend time with my father, get closer to my troopmates, as well as contribute to getting people out to hike, something that I am passionate about.”

Looks like his project has mapped him to moving to his final rank as an Eagle Scout.

“Aiden is to be commended for planning, supervising and building five Trail Kiosks for our Mt. Olive Open Space trails,” says Alexander. “His leadership and volunteerism set a fine example and his pursuit of becoming an Eagle Scout is greatly admired. We look forward to him achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in the near future.”

“We get mailers about fire department seeking donations, so we thought we can organize something to raise funds for them,” explains Kondeti. “We approached and they accepted our request, but they said they can come for free. We did the fundraiser and did the donation.

“We have reached out to police department to have them onsite, and they have asked us to reach out to their support team and will be working on it soon,” he adds.

“We in our community have created an events committee to host these events onsite,” he adds. “We plan on having the

police department next. The committee is planning to have events that bring togetherness among the homeowners, sup-

port our local service departments, teach the kids in the community and do more while all having fun.”

•

I Remember Dad: A Most Endearing Gift

BY RICHARD MABEY

GUEST WRITER

AREA - In September of 1969, I turned 16 and began my junior year at Boonton High School. It was late September that a most traumatic event came to my life. I got a “D” on a chemistry quiz. It was the first “D” I had ever received in my life. I was deeply hurt and thought that my unbroken yield of continuing to make the Honor Roll, had come to a grinding halt.

That very night, I confessed to my father about getting a grade of “D” on my first chemistry quiz. I was very embarrassed and felt ashamed. To my surprise, my father was not upset at all. The main thing that he told me was that I needed to study my chemistry, even more. It was just that simple.

The weekend that followed, Dad and I took a ride to a little bookstore in Wayne. Dad bought me a booklet titled, “The How and Why of Chemistry.” This booklet presented the subject of chemistry in a much more understandable style than my textbook did. I read this book, from cover to

cover, that weekend.

When we got home from the bookstore, that Saturday morning, Dad and I sat down at the dining room table of the old Mabey Homestead. Dad worked on scouting paperwork, which was part of his volunteer job of serving as Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 170. I remember that Dad and I spent that entire Saturday afternoon and evening sitting at the dining room table.

Dad did not know much about chemistry. But he knew that if I was going to get a good grade on my next chemistry quiz, I needed to study more than I had been studying. So, after church that following Sunday, once again, Dad and I began sharing the dining room table.

I remember that Mr. Toomey, my chemistry teacher, gave us another chemistry quiz that following week. To my amazement, I got a “B” on that quiz. I owe the sun and the moon and the stars to my father. He believed in me, more than I believed in myself. He would

never let me give up. He would never allow me accept defeat. My father had a rare blend of being both caring and stern with me. Now at 71, nearly 20 years have passed since my beloved father went Home to be with the Lord. I still miss him very much. A day hasn’t gone by that I haven’t thought about him. My father built a foundation in my heart and soul, that was filled with inner strength and determination. He taught me to never give up, to never ever give up.

If you’re a parent, the most wonderful gift that you can give to your child, is to teach him or her to believe in themself, to never give up, to never surrender when things get tough. For truly, love is the most powerful force in the universe. 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.

From the Autumn of 1969, Dad and I studying at the dining room table of the old Mabey Homestead.

JR.

MOUNT OLIVE - In the Cloverhill section of Flanders, two young entrepreneurs are turning petals into purpose — and a suburban lawn into a sanctuary for pollinators.

Best friends Daphne and Gianna operate D&G Flower Creations, a summer pop-up flower stand with a mission that’s blooming far beyond bouquets. Daphne’s mom, Nicole Spaldo, acts as the florist behind their venture, growing the flowers and cultivating the native plants in the yard she has lived in for the past 13 years.

“My daughter Daphne, and her best friend Gianna, had the idea last year to sell cut flowers as a summer stand to fund their preteen shopping habits!” shares Spaldo. Daphne and Gianna are the brains behind the operation; I just grow their produce!

I do all the work, and they reap all the benefits! I grow the flowers in my yard where I have overturned my grass in order to cultivate more native plants for the pollinators in our community. I grow and cut the flowers, and the girls take them to sell.”

Growing them in her front and back yards, Spaldo has a nice variety.

“I feature only native plants to our area including cone flowers, shasta daisies, day lilies, hummingbird mint and bee balm or wild bergamot,” she says.

What started as a playful way to fund some tween shopping trips has blossomed into something much more meaningful. The girls aren’t just selling beauty in a vase — they’re sharing nature’s gift by selling flowers to brighten someone’s day and learning how small

Bosom Buddies Flower Business Blossoms

acts can have a big impact.

Flowers do take nurturing and time to grow and Spaldo likes to keep some in her yard to help the environment.

“I like to keep my flowers for the bees, but my daughter is persistent and usually convinces me to let her sell them at least one time per summer,” adds Spaldo.

They sold them for $10 for a vase or $2 per stem.

“Lilies are so beautiful and big they sold them for $4 per stem!” she adds.

While their sales are past, there could be another one this season before all the blooms are gone.

“Hopefully the girls will keep it going when they have free time!” says Spaldo.

“Come to a pop-up shop! Later in the summer I may offer people to come and take some but I also typically harvest the seeds for next year.”

Their venture has been blossoming into such a positive experience.

“The girls enjoy being entrepreneurs and I enjoy seeing my beautiful flowers go home to happy customers,” says Spaldo.

While the girls charm customers with their summer sales, Spaldo nurtures a garden that feeds both pollinators and the soul.

“Maintaining our pollinator colonies is so important because they are the reason we have food on our tables,” says Spaldo.

Anyone can turn a traditional lawn into a haven for pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, moths and hummingbirds.

According to research provided by Spaldo, pollinator populations are experiencing

alarming declines worldwide due to factors like habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change.

“Lawns, often comprised of non-native turfgrasses and treated with pesticides, offer little to no benefit for these crucial creatures,” research states.

Creating pollinator gardens that contain native wildflowers and plants provides a vital source of nectar and pollen, ensuring pollinators have the resources they need to thrive.

Pollinators play a key role in ecosystems by facilitating the reproduction of more than 75% of the world’s flowering plants, including many food crops.

“By planting diverse native species in your lawn, you create a richer habitat that attracts a wider variety of pollinators,” according to the USDA.

“This also provides food and shelter for other beneficial insects and wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals, creating a healthier and more resilient ecosystem in your own backyard.”

Pollinators also boost agricultural productivity and food security. About one in three bites of food depends on animal pollination, according to studies.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, turning lawns into pollinator havens can improve crop yields and quality for local farmers and contribute to global food security, especially crops like almonds, apples, blueberries and strawberries that rely heavily on pollinators.

Pollinators gardens also naturally control pests and reduce the contamination of waterways.

Since native plants require

less water and maintenance, sustainable gardening practices are promoted.

“Transforming a traditional lawn into a haven for pollinators is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to biodiversity conservation, support a

healthy ecosystem, enhance food production, and embrace more sustainable gardening practices,” according to farmers.gov.

“If anyone wants help replacing portions of their lawns with beautiful wildflowers,

please reach out!” concludes Spaldo. Giving back can be beautiful, kids can lead with heart and

“They

“They

Kids Squeeze out $1000’s for Charity Selling Lemonade

nehs—along with their giant lawn skeleton, Skully, help every step of the way.

“We sold over $800, and all the proceeds went to the no kid hungry foundation,” says Lina Mneimneh, who helps run the stand. Visit https:// www.nokidhungry.org/ to learn about this nonprofit that supports millions of children fighting hunger every day.

but we wanted to send a special thanks to everyone for stopping by, the police officers and the mayor for their continued support, the Venmo donors and a very special donor that pushed them over their goal Sunday with a very gracious donation of $100!” she adds The Adams’ family at 5 N. Mt. Olive Road started its lemonade stand initiative last summer to raise money for charity. Their neighbors— the Farrakhans and the Mneim-

She explains that they chose No Kid Hungry “because when we researched about charities, we saw No Kids Hungry, and it reminded us of a time when we saw some kids with their mom who needed food and we wanted to be able to help as many kids as we could,” explains Lina.

“Our neighbor Rachelle Farrakhan told us about this foundation,” says Adams. “The kids looked into it and

decided, based on some things they’ve seen personally, that they wanted to help.”

Sales for this season began in the beginning of June. Their stand is open from 10:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. on select weekends. The Adams plan to keep the stand going until their school year begins, they say.

“They actually like giving up part of their weekends to give back, so this became their way to do that,” says Adams. “We don’t have a set schedule since it depends on our availability and our visitation scheduling. We post on the local community groups when we’re able to run the stand. We try to stay flexible with the hours in case someone wants to stop by, they can always drop a note on the online posts.”

They are selling many types

of lemon aid, both regular and flavored. Customers can expect to pay $2 for regular and $3 for the flavored varieties.

“We also offer free lemonade to police officers, firefighters and the EMTs,” adds Adams.

Their first weekend sales this season started with a bang as they raised more than $500.

“We want to beat last year and raise $1,000!” says Taylor Farrakhan, another stand helper.

Who knew that raising money for charity would be such a sweet time.

Justin Mneimneh says he is all in “To raise money for the charity, and it’s fun!”

Adds Jayden Farrakhan, “We started this because it’s

a great way to spend our summer weekends together while also helping the community by raising money for people less fortunate.”

Adds the Mneimneh siblings, “None of the money goes to us kids, 100% goes to charity!”

Anyone who would like to contribute, can Venmo the lemonade team @minervamk As summer will soon wind down and the lemonade stand will be still, the Adams and their friends are looking forward to fall.

“We will have the Skully Costumes Closet to give away free costumes that have only been gently used,” reminds Jayden Farrakhan.

Groundbreaking Ceremony with Greater Middlesex and Morris Habitat for Humanity

BY CHERYL CONWAY STAFF WRITER

Groundbreaking at Ryan Homes

Mayor

Nicastro welcomed Ryan Homes to Mount Olive on

25, 2025. In photo

Mielnik

Manager, Sarah Tahan Sales Manager, Mayor Joe Nicastro, Michele Zaccone Sales Representative, Trista Barish Sales Representative , James Wikenhauser Project Manager, Zebulon

Project Supervisor, Steven Cupo Project Manager and Craig Burden Warranty Manager

NJ Gov. Candidate Jack Ciattarelli Meets with Jewish Community Leaders, Discusses Education, Security & Rising Antisemitism

AREA - In his first sit-down with Jewish community leaders since winning the Republican gubernatorial primary, Jack Ciattarelli visited the Rabbinical College of America’s Morristown campus on Friday, July 11, engaging in a 90-minute discussion with Chabad rabbis representing communities from across New Jersey about pressing issues facing the state’s Jewish communities.

The visit brought together Chabad rabbis from the movement’s 72 centers statewide, representing the largest Jewish organizational footprint in New Jersey. The discussion focused on education policy, security concerns, and the rising tide of antisemitism affecting Jewish communities throughout the Garden State.

“This visit displays true concern for the needs of New Jersey’s large Jewish community,” said Rabbi Mendy Herson, Dean of the Rabbinical College of America and Di-

rector of Chabad of New Jersey, who hosted the discussion alongside Senator Anthony Bucco and philanthropist Amir Hadar.

During the visit, Ciattarelli also addressed 288 fourteenyear-old students from countries including Brazil, Chile, Dominican Republic, and Russia, who are participating in the institution’s Yeshiva Summer Program (YSP). The international students are in Morristown as part of their transition from eighth grade into the yeshiva high school system.

Rabbi Herson introduced Ciattarelli to the students, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and quoting the Mishnah’s teaching to “pray for the welfare of government,” a principle central to Jewish civic participation.

“I have deep ties in the Jewish community and serious concerns about the issues facing the community,” Ciattarelli told the gathering. “I

chose to make my first visit with the Jewish community here at Chabad because of their extensive footprint across New Jersey – they’re in every corner of our state, serving Jews from all walks of life.” He also announced his upcoming trip to Israel.

The visit included participation from prominent Chabad leaders including Rabbi Eli Kornfeld (Chabad of Hunterdon County), Rabbi Avi Richler (Chabad Liaison of Political Affairs), and rabbis from communities spanning the entire state. Ciattarelli has maintained decades-long relationships with several of these leaders, particularly Rabbis Kornfeld and Richler.

Senator Anthony Bucco, whose family has enjoyed warm relations with the Rabbinical College of America spanning two generations, posted after the visit: “Always enjoy visiting my friends at the Rabbinical College of Ameri-

The Chabad movement, known for its philosophy of reaching Jews of all levels of observance with love and acceptance, operates 72 centers across New Jersey staffed by 92 rabbinical couples, representing the state’s most extensive Jewish communal infrastructure.

While the Rabbinical College of America welcomes visits and discussions with all candidates and does not endorse candidates for office, the timing of this visit – as Ciattarelli’s first major Jewish community engagement following his primary victory – signals the importance of Jewish voters in the upcoming gubernatorial race.

The college noted that while Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill has not yet reached out for a similar meeting, they remain open to hosting discussions with all gubernatorial candidates.

Mt. Olive Library Happenings

skills. Please register for a session based on your skill level.

Participants will need to bring their own crochet hooks and yarn.

Registration is required.

Learn to Make Salsa Thursday, August 14 at 6:30 pm

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

Mt. Olive Public Library

Come join Sophia and learn how to make salsa! You’ll get to take home your salsa at the end of the program.

Registration is required.

Look out for these upcoming

programs at the start of September! Registration will be available for them approx. mid-August on our website. Outside Meditation Session (9/6)

French Conversation Group (9/6)

Intermediate / Advanced English as a

Ciattarelli addresses 288 international students alongside Rabbi Mendy Herson

BY HENRY M. HOLDEN STAFF WRITER

AREA - It was a time when American colonist began to feel crushed with heavy and illegal taxes. Imposed by England. They felt that the heavy tax imposed on tea was illegal without physical representation in Parlement. It was unfortunate that the colonists, under the rule of Great Britain, had no means of voicing their grievances and there were 12 other colonies (States) that felt the same way.

The business of forcing tea on the American colonies had become a very serious matter. Tea was a major trading commodity, and the warehouses in London stored approximately 17 million pounds of tea. If there should be no sale to any of the American markets the outcome would be catastrophic for England.

In the pre-revolutionary war days liberty was a much wanted and needed commodity for the future United States of America. The colonist of New Jersey showed a strong desire for independence. Many were hopeful that the spirit that welcomed Philadelphia would also welcome the spirit in the hopeful and thriving inhabitants in Cumberland County.

Founded in 1675 by John Fenwick, Cumberland County, New Jersey, is older than Philadelphia, which was not founded until 1682. The hands of

time had not touched Greenwich. It is much the same today as it was three hundred years ago, except the British flag is no longer flying; instead it is the stars and stripes of 50 United States of America, that are no longer Colonies.

Boston Tea Party, (December 16, 1773), was an event in which 342 cases of tea belonging to the British East India Company were thrown from ships into Boston Harbor by American patriots disguised as Mohawk Indians. The Americans were protesting both a tax on tea (taxation without representation) and the monopoly of the East India Company. The events of that day would later spark a copycat action.

Tea from England was sent to the ports of Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Charleston; and what tea was used in New Jersey came from those places after the consignees had paid the tax.

The passage of the Tea Act (1773) by the British Parliament gave the East India Company exclusive rights to transport tea to the colonies and empowered it to undercut all its competitors. The leaders of the major cities in the colonies cancelled their orders in protest, but the governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony allowed tea to arrive in Boston.

New Jersey Tea Party

In the early winter of 1774, the quiet residents along the banks of the creek were startled by the appearance of a British brig, (a sailing ship with two masts), called the “Greyhound,” by its captain. It avoided sailing to Philadelphia and sailed about four miles up the Cohansey Creek. The brig stopped at the village of Greenwich, which was its first landing laden with a cargo of tea sent out by the East India Tea Company. The little town of Greenwich, about forty miles from Philadelphia was the principal settlement of Cumberland County in 1774.

Meanwhile, the captain of the “Greyhound” vessel carrying tea realized that his vessel would be seized by the British and he would have to pay a heavy tax on the tea. So, he diverted course from Philadelphia and headed up the Cohansey Creek, a navigable body of water running through Cumberland County and emptying into Delaware Bay.

On the evening of, December 22, 1774, a company of about forty young Whigs, (taking a page from the Boston Tea Party a year earlier) disguised as Indians, entered the cellar, of Dan Bowen’s house. Having found an English sympathizer, a Tory, as they were called, Daniel Bowen, allowed the Greyhound’s crew secretly

stored the cargo of tea in the cellar of his home.

They took possession of the entire cargo of tea, transferred the tea cases from the cellar into an adjoining field, and piling them together, burned them in one general conflagration.

The Tea company was undoubtedly under the impression that the conservative feelings and principles of the people of New Jersey would induce them to submit quietly to a new tax. The result showed that the temper of the people was little understood by the East India Tea Company.

However, this unusual procedure was noted by the citizens who immediately appointed a temporary committee of five to look after the matter until a county commit-

tee might be appointed.

A general committee of thirty-five was later appointed, with representatives from Greenwich, Deerfield, Jericho, Shiloh, Bridgeton, Fairfield and perhaps other places.

News of the Boston Tea Party had reached Greenwich, and the defiant example was regarded by many of the local settlers as worthy of their own contempt for the British.

Fate now presented them with a ready-made opportunity to

duplicate the act.

On the evening of, December 22, 1774, a company of about forty young Whigs, disguised as Mohawk Indians, entered the cellar of Bowen’s house. They took possession of the cargo and moved the tea chests from the cellar into an adjoining field, and piled them and together, burned them in one general conflagration.

Thus, the patriots of Cum-

The Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series Presents Campfire Night at the Troubadour

AREA - Campfire Night at the Troubadour, August 15, 2025

Location of Event: Morristown Unitarian Fellowship

7:30 pm, $20.00 ($15 for members) features three outstanding performers, Sam Robbins, Ernie Sites, and Ken Galipeau, singing from the middle of a darkened audience, lit only by warm light of an electric campfire, with make-believe stars across the sky. The only amplified sound will be the croaking of frogs and chirping of crickets played softly in the background. S’mores and hot cocoa will be served. No bugs invited. Sam Robbins is an internationally touring singer songwriter, in the vein of classic writers like James Taylor and Jackson Browne, with an upbeat side. He’s the 2021 Kerrville Folk Fest New Folk winner and he was the first to sing a Jim Croce song on The Voice.

Tea Party...

A western entertainer and an experienced cowboy, Ernie Sites. Among his many talents, he is a western performer, songwriter, cowboy poet, trick roper, bull rider, rodeo clown, bareback rider, team roper and a calf roper. He has traveled the world over, using his gifts to teach people about cowboys and the west.

Contagious energy, sincere enthusiasm, and an eclectic repertoire make Ken Galipeau a singer and storyteller unlike any other. Drawing from both time-tested tradition and his own experiences, Ken’s songs will touch your heart and tease your soul.

The Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series Presents Dead on Live, August 22, 2025, Location of Event: Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, 7:30 pm, $20.00 ($15 for members)

Multi-instrumentalist Marc

Muller directs a note-for-note celebration capturing important and beloved periods of the Grateful Dead’s long, illustrious, and stylistically diverse career. He has assembled an impressive cast of world class musicians who have been able to reproduce virtually every note of every instrument, as well as all of the beautifully orchestrated vocal arrangements, that are trademarks of the Dead’s classic American recordings, to a level that’s perhaps never been accomplished and performed live in concert before. In keeping with the true spirit of the Grateful Dead, every Dead on Live show also features plenty of jamming and improv.

The Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series Presents Christie Lenée and Kenny White, August 29, 2025, Morristown Unitarian Fellowship,

adult person for funds to help those under charges resulted in raising thousands for legal fees. However, there was never a trial because the issue was moot. The shooting war with the British had already begun. Today, Greenwich has been granted the distinction of being one

towns in America, the others being Charleston, Annapolis, Princeton, and Boston. In 1908 a monument was erected to remember the original old marketplace on Ye Greate Street where the burning of a cargo of British tea first took place, on December 22, 1773.

Alice Howe & Freebo

7:30 pm, $20.00 ($15 for members)

Christie Lenée—Acoustic Guitarist of the Year and one of Guitar World’s “Best Acoustic Guitarists in the World Right Now”—delivers a concert experience that’s as technically dazzling as it is emotionally uplifting. Called “a firecracker [on] a high-wire circus routine” (Guitar Player Magazine), Lenée mixes fingerstyles, two-hand tapping, and improvised percussion to push the limits of acoustic performance. Her shows radiate joy, and celebrate life and love. Her compositions are epic — almost symphonic in their lush and effortless execution.

Kenny White is the consummate entertainer, an extraordinary pianist, poet, and master storyteller. Praised as “Mark Twain with a piano” and renowned for touring with Judy Collins and Stephen Stills, Kenny brings his razor-sharp lyrics, rich musical history, and electric stage presence to the Troubadour. With a career spanning hits with Peter Wolf, film soundtracks, and iconic ad jingles, Kenny now shines center stage. The Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series Presents Alice Howe & Freebo and Bill

Hall with Scott Nelson, September 5, 2025, Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, 7:30 pm $20.00 ($15 for members)

Alice Howe & Freebo have undeniable chemistry. Rock bass legend Freebo weaves his fretless stylings into Alice’s soulful, impeccably tuned vocals for a harmony-driven performance showcasing two uniquely compelling songwriters. Their latest album Alice Howe & Freebo Live is their first release as a duo, and it debuted as the #1 Most Played Album on the Folk Radio Chart.

William J. Hall is a songwriter’s songwriter and a poet’s poet. This almost-legendary North Jersey artist and Kerrville New Folk award-winner is emerging from the shadows for a rare and precious performance that will be recorded live for his next album. Bill is a master at his craft, and he inspires standing ovations for his insightful, universal love songs, his luscious musical landscapes, and his fascinating snapshots of life. Bill has performed with David Amram, Norman and Nancy Blake, Dave Bromberg, Allan Ginsberg, John Hartford, Don McClean, Melanie, Harry Nielson, Tom Paxton, Pete Seeger, Jackie Tice, Suzanne Vega, Robin

an accomplished

and

ear. He earned historic respect and love from the Folk Project as founding member of Frostwater, the fabulous acoustic band featuring Bill Hall and Project founder Lauren Reilly. These concerts are part of The Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series, now in its 50th year, sponsored by The Folk Project each Friday evening at the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. For further information, call 201-6506928, or visit www.folkproject. org. The Folk Project website offers music samples of Troubadour performers at troubadour.folkproject.org.

The Folk Project is New Jersey’s leading acoustic music and dance organization, and has been showcasing acoustic and traditional music in North Jersey since 1971. Funding has been made possible in part by funds from Morris Arts through the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Contact Information: The Folk Project: troubadour.folkproject.org

Williamson, and Peter Yarrow. Scott Nelson is more than

bass guitarist with exquisite taste

gifted

Be It Ever So True: Kindness Is More Precious Than Gold

BY RICHARD MABEY JR. GUEST WRITER

AREA

great grandfather, William Mabey Jr., built in 1890. My paternal grandparents, Watson and Bertha Mabey, lived with my mom, dad, sister and I. There were certain values that were prevalent in small town life, growing up in the 1950’s. Now at 71, I am not so sure they are out of style, nor not in alignment with our modern world.

Having been fairly recently diagnosed with the very serious heart disease of Hypertrophic

Cardiomyopathy, I do my utmost best to keep my thoughts positive and filled with loving energy. The other day, I reflected upon a simple act of kindness that my dear Grandpa Mabey practiced with great regularity.

In the backyard of the old Mabey Homestead, there once stood six grand and glorious apple trees. I remember, in the summer months, Grandpa and I would pick up all the apples that graced the green grass. We would put them in old pails and buckets, then walk to the forest path at the end of Mabey Lane.

Grandpa and I would walk the forest path together, carrying our pails of fallen apples. Every so often, Grandpa and I would stop along the wooded trail and I would follow Grandpa’s lead. We would spill out a few apples from one of our pails and then move on.

We would walk the forest trail for a short while, then stop again and spill out some apples along the edge of the path. There was a reason why Grandpa taught me to spill apples along the wooded trail that led to the towpath of the old Morris Canal. I remember it

all so well, like it was yesterday. Grandpa would say to me, with wisdom filling his voice, “Richie Jim we’re leaving dessert for the deer of the forest.”

Grandpa’s face would light up as he smiled his crooked grin. Grandpa truly loved the wild creatures of the forest. Now, over 60 years later, I reflect upon dear old Grandpa’s kindness and it brings warmth and joy to my heart.

Kindness is so ever incredibly precious. Truly, kind acts are more precious than gold. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has recent-

ly had two books published. He currently hosts a YouTube Channel entitled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” Richard may be contacted at richardmabeyjr@gmail.com.

Dear old Grandpa Mabey, standing at the end of Mabey Lane. Please note Grandpa’s garage in the right hand side of the picture. To the best of my knowledge, Grandpa’s garage is still standing.

BY DANA JACKSON

Q:Is it true that the new Mrs. Bezos used to be an actress? What has she been in? Also, did his ex-wife ever remarry? -- K.D.

A:Yes, Lauren Sanchez, who is newly wedded to Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos, has an IMDb page of acting credits, but most of her roles consist of playing reporters and news anchors. Before this, she majored in communications at the University of Southern California, which is why she was probably a natural for these types of roles. Her first on-camera role as a reporter or anchor was in 1997 in the series “Babylon 5,” followed by the cult classic film “Fight Club.”

Many people probably don’t remember that she was the original host of the reality competition series “So You Think You Can Dance,” which premiered in the United States in 2005. She left after one season to have

BY DEMI TAVERAS

Celebrity Extra Couch Theater ENTERTAINMENT

“Lilo & Stitch” (PG) -- The 2002 animated film “Lilo & Stitch” was such a hit for Disney that it spawned several sequels and spin-off series. Now, 23 years later, Disney produced a live-action remake of the original “Lilo & Stitch” story, with Chris Sanders reprising his role as Stitch and 8-year-old Hawaiian native Maia Kealoha playing Lilo. Forget about it just being a hit; this live-action film smashed box-office records for Memorial Day weekend and grossed more than $1 billion! Of course, this means that a sequel for the film is already in development. But before we get too ahead of ourselves, make sure to check out this live-action film for your-

a baby and was replaced by Cat Deeley. Bezos’ ex-wife MacKenzie Scott, who played a significant role in the early rise of Amazon, remarried in 2021 to a science teacher. Unfortunately, it didn’t last, and she filed for divorce a year later.

According to USA Today, as part of her divorce settlement from Bezos, Scott planned to donate half of her wealth to charity, and she has. The Center for Effective Philanthropy released a study in February stating that her donations have totaled $19.25 billion and have been distributed to over 2,450 nonprofit organizations. ***

Q:Will they ever reboot “Supernatural”? I know it hasn’t been off the air for that long, but I miss it. -- C.E.

A:According to TV Insider, ever since the Winchester boys

self. Several changes from the original story were made, leading to some criticism from fans and critics. It’s available now to stream at home! (Disney+)

“M3GAN 2.0” (PG-13) -Another sequel is out now to rent for your viewing pleasure at home! (Though, I’m not quite sure this will be a very pleasurable experience for all.) Starring Allison Williams (“Get Out”), this sequel picks up two years after child-sized robot M3GAN went absolutely wild and tried to kill everyone in sight. Since her antics, Gemma has become an author and an AI regulation advocate, while M3GAN’s original technology gets stolen to create a new android named AME-

(Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki) met on the bridge one last time in 2020, fans have been asking, “When is the ‘Supernatural’ revival?” Even after 15 seasons, viewers want more, but Padalecki isn’t sure that another 22-episode season is doable. He suggested that perhaps a limited series format would be a good compromise.

In the meantime, Ackles recently wrapped up filming season five of “The Boys,” and you can also see him in his new show “Countdown,” both of which are on Prime Video. It’s also been reported that Padalecki and another “Supernatural” star, Misha Collins, will join Ackles in the final season of “The Boys,” which will air sometime in 2026.

***

Q: Which book is the Justin Hartley series “Tracker” based on? I just found out that it was a novel or a series of novels first.

LIA. Naturally, AMELIA also evades her creator’s control and escapes to cause havoc. (Those pesky children, am I right?!) So, Gemma is left with no choice but to use a stored backup of M3GAN and allow her to return -- only to do the right thing and save the world from AMELIA taking over. Should be easy peasy! (Apple TV+)

“My Mom Jayne” (TV-MA) -- Even if you’re not a fan of “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” you’ve probably heard of Mariska Hargitay due to her prolific career in television. Besides being such a successful actress, she has an incredibly profound backstory. Being born to Hollywood legend

-- N.B.

A:For the past two seasons, “Tracker” has been consistently ranked as the No. 1 rated network series. Fresh off the hit ensemble series “This Is Us,” star Justin Hartley was chosen to star in CBS’ “Tracker,” which got a strong start by debuting in the coveted post-Super-Bowl time slot.

“Tracker” is indeed based on not just one but a series of fiction books by Jeffery Deaver, the first of which is titled “The Never Game.” Season three kicks off on Oct. 19 at 8 p.m. ET, but two familiar faces will not be part of the cast. Both Eric Graise and Abby McEnany, who play Bobby and Velma respectively, have been written out of the show.

Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail. com.

(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Jayne Mansfield (“Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?”), Hargitay only had three years with her mother before a tragic car accident took Mansfield’s life. In this documentary film that Hargitay directed herself, she and her siblings break down

Mansfield’s life, career, and many talents that sadly went unnoticed. In addition, Hargitay goes public in the documentary about her biological father, Nelson Sardelli, with whom Mansfield had a wild affair that occurred sometime

between her marriage to Mickey Hargitay. Fill your cup up with some Old Hollywood tea that will surely perk up your ears! (HBO Max) (c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Choose Grace

No one knows the path of another, Or where their day has led, The stresses of their busy week, Or the hurt inside their heart. You have not climbed their mountains, For you have some of your own. Theirs may not have been conquered, Before your paths did cross... Show them grace.

Show them grace, For comments rude or insulting That spring from their lips, Without thought or consideration. Show them grace, For their lack of patience That you didn’t deserve; You were just there at the moment, When their emotions overwhelmed.

Show them grace, Instead of retaliation, Or remarks unkind, For there may come a time for you, To need the grace of others When your words attack unbidden, As you face your own burdens in life. Show them grace.

Ms Skip Friggle (Budd Lake) ©5/28/2025 skipfriggle@gmail.com (questions/comments)

Thank u my friends Elaine & Debra for this inspiration. God bless

Maia Kealoha, left, and Sydney Agudong, right, star in the live-action remake “Lilo & Stitch.” Photo Credit: Courtesy of MovieStillsDB

Philanthropist Lauren Sanchez. Photo Credit: Depositphotos

GAME TIME

Mayor Nicastro

Drone

photo by Richard Maggio.

Samantha Lalama, Addison, Councilwoman Mary Lalama, Mila, Kearstin Tripi, Elena and Enzo enjoying the carnival.

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Save Summer Dinners with Shrimp Spaghetti

Source:

not alone.

Packing backpacks and lunchboxes in the morning can be a chore, not to mention after-school activities that put a dent in dinner planning.

Saving a few precious seconds starts with 30-minutesor-less meals you can prep to send to school or enjoy together at the table each evening. These Vegan Burritos feature boldly seasoned mushrooms, black beans, corn and plenty of saucy, tangy toppings - in fact, kids won’t miss a thing in this plant-based variation of meaty burritos.

They’re easily packable in lunchboxes and made with Success Boil-in-Bag Jasmine Rice that’s available in a new,

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Simplify School Day Meals

shareable 32-ounce size, which means more sweetly aromatic rice that cooks up soft and fluffy in 10 minutes. Perfect for dishes like these burritos that complement its subtle flavor profile, it’s gluten free, NonGMO Project Verified and free of preservatives and additives so you can feel good about sending it to school.

Dinner can be ready in the snap of a finger with Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs and Pearl Couscous where savory ground lamb takes center stage. This tempting dish highlights tender pearl couscous, sauteed veggies and briny feta cheese coming together in half an hour so you can spend more time at the table and less time in the kitchen.

Thoroughly versatile, new

Success Boil-in-Bag Pearl

Couscous is a Mediterranean-style pasta that’s distinguished from traditional Moroccan couscous by its slightly larger and rounder shape with a less dense, firmer consistency. It’s ready in 7 minutes or less with slightly nutty flavor that absorbs flavors of soups and salads while retaining its density and chewy texture.

Find more school day solutions at SuccessRice.com.

Vegan Burritos

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

1 bag Success Jasmine Rice

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup lion’s mane mushrooms, shredded 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cumin 1 tablespoon soy sauce

1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper

4 whole-wheat tortillas

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn

1 avocado, sliced 1 cup dairy-free cheddar cheese, shredded 1 cup salsa fresh cilantro, chopped (optional) lime wedges, for serving Prepare rice according to package directions.

In skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add garlic and saute about 1 minute until fragrant. Add lion’s mane mushrooms to skillet, stirring to combine. Cook about 5 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender and slightly golden. Stir in paprika, cumin, soy sauce, salt and pepper. Cook 2 minutes then remove from heat.

In separate skillet, warm tortillas about 30 seconds on each side.

Lay one tortilla flat and layer 1/4 cup rice, 1/4 cup beans, 1/4 cup mushroom mixture and 1/4 cup corn with 1/4 of the avocado and 1/4 cup cheese in center. Top with salsa and fresh cilantro, if desired. Fold sides of tortilla over filling then roll from bottom up to enclose filling completely. Repeat with remaining tortillas. Serve burritos warm with lime wedges.

Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs and Pearl Couscous

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

1 1/2 cups feta cheese, crumbled, divided 3/4 cups panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons Greek seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1/4 cup onion, chopped 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced 1/4 cup zucchini, diced 1 cup tzatziki 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional) Prepare pearl couscous according to package directions. Replace water with chicken broth.

Servings: 4

1 bag Success Pearl Couscous 4 cups chicken broth

1 pound ground lamb 2 eggs

In large bowl, combine lamb, eggs, 3/4 cup feta, panko breadcrumbs, Greek seasoning and salt. Knead gently to combine. Form small meatballs using hands.

In large pan over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Cook meatballs 5 minutes until browned on all sides. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover pan with lid. Cook 5 minutes, or until fully cooked. In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, heat remaining oil. Add onions and cook 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and zucchini and cook 3 minutes. Stir in pearl couscous until ingredients are fully combined. Divide pearl couscous between bowls. Add meatballs then tzatziki. Garnish with remaining feta and mint, if desired. (Family Features) Source: Success Rice

The Story of Albert A. Burlando and the 50th Anniversary of Almetek

MOUNT OLIVE - Albert A.

Burlando was born on January 28, 1938, in New York City to parents who immigrated from Northern Italy. His grandfather was a fine Artist with frescos in the Museum of Natural History NYC.

Al’s dad was six and his mother was nine years old when they entered Ellis Island. They grew up in New York City where Al’s father sold apples to help the family through The Great Depression. He met Jean and fell in love, married then five years later he was the first son of Albert & Jean Burlando. Al has a younger brother and twin sisters. His dad chose to be an engraver and learned his trade from the broom. Al Sr. created his home engraving business in South Beach, Staten Island, NY. Albert Jr. always knew he would follow his dad in the trade which he had worked in as early as he could remember in the basement shop called Burlando Engraving. (1948) Al graduated from McKee Vocational H.S.in 1955 where he was part of the National Honors Society. Later in life, on Dec 9th, 2014, Albert was inducted into the McKee High School Alumni & Friends Hall of Fame for his outstanding contributions to the school community. He started a Graphic Arts Scholarship program that rewards the top 2 students who achieve the highest standards each school year.

Al started the first photo engraving business on Staten Island with his dad and personally made deliveries to print shops and newspaper by scooter and motorcycle.

Eventually he met Joyce, sold his motorcycle for a wedding ring, and married on September 9, 1961. Al and Joyce started a family and had two

beautiful daughters, Donna and Lori. They worked for the family business starting at the ages of 10 and 8.

Al took a position as Supervisor of Research & Development at a Staten Island factory and perfected methods for chemical engraving in steel to manufacture products in large tonnage power presses. By the time his parents moved to Delray, Florida, Al was Product Manager and running the manufacturing plant.

After 10 1/2 years there, Al decided to leave his comfortable position and start his own business called Almetek Industries Inc. on September 1,1975 with $3,600.00 cash and the love and support of his family. He had no credit after having been turn down from Shell Oil’s Credit Card Service.

Al realized he needed to have a strong family unit before starting his own business, so he enrolled his family in a marriage encounter group which was part of his church. They were given journals to write in and the group met weekly to discuss their feelings and what they wrote in their journals. This kept the family very close during the difficult days ahead.

For two years the family lived below the poverty line but somehow, Al enrolled both girls in private schools while they also worked for the family business to help fulfill their dad’s dream.

It was not easy, for Donna and Lori. They worked after school (learning graphic arts trades) and did homework on weekends while their friends were outside playing. Their lives were changed forever, sacrificing today for a better life in the future.

Within their residential 2 story home was a virtual factory with etching machines, power

presses, shear, laminator, screen printer, roller coater, conveyer oven, drying racks, stock room and an office for sales and marketing. Direct mailings were done in the family living room.

Al built his own equipment for manufacturing steel dies and created a new design concept, his first product called E-Z TAGS®, an identification system for marking utility poles and transformers.

E-Z TAGS®, revolutionized the way Utilities & Telecoms Identified their poles & underground electric equipment.

After three years, Al decided he wanted to raise his family in New Jersey. They moved west to a home in Mt. Olive Township, New Jersey and set up Almetek’ s business operation in Ledgewood, New Jersey. He hired a full staff and his wife, Joyce, helped with payroll for many years.

Al volunteered his time to help organize the Economic Development Committee which he served on for ten years as Chairman. He was part of developing New Jersey’s First Foreign Trade Zone, a feat he was most proud of.

Almetek Industries, Inc, received the New Jersey Export Award for Excellence in Exporting.

Al also joined The Rotary Club of Mt. Olive in 1977 and served as President for two terms. He was awarded the Paul Harris Fellow +8 and acted as a Vocational Service Chairman. He was involved with Boy Scouts while volunteering at the Rotary Clubs and worked with both groups to install environmental Storm Drain Markers in communities across the state and country.

He is proud of his heritage and organized the Italian Club of Mt. Olive and became it’s first president.

Al is also a very religious man and contributed to building St. Jude’s Roman Catholic Church in Budd Lake. The prayer room is dedicated to his late father, Albert Burlando, Senior. Al served as Eucharistic Minister there for many years and was also a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Al is a Lifetime Member of Safari Club International. Joyce often accompanied Al on Safari trips to Scotland, Spain, Argentina, Australia and New Zealand.

In an effort to expand the business overseas, Al has made extensive trips to Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Argentina. Often, he would go on these trips with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Gold Key Programs.

Al’s business grew exponentially, so he purchased a 26-acre property on US Route 46 in Mount Olive. He sub-divided the property and built the manufacturing plant and the first self-storage facility called E-Z Storage in the community.

In 1985, the company relocated from Ledgewood, NJ, to the new Mount Olive Township facility which still houses our 42,000 square foot manufacturing facility. He designed and sub-contracted all phases of its construction.

Today, Almetek Industries Inc. resides at 2 Joy Drive, Hackettstown, NJ 07840 and employs over 65 employees. Almetek is a leader in manufacturing tags, labels & nameplates with cutting edge technology using robotics, CNC, computer generated engraving, routing, conveyor production lines and power presses up to 400 tons.

Al has several patented products, dies and equipment to produce unique products in multiple markets.

Almetek’s products are found in every large state, municipality in the U.S. & Canada. We also have an international presence with exports to South & Central America, Europe,

Australia & Saudi Arabia. From environmental Storm Drain Markers made of aluminum & stainless steel to Utility Markers, Fiber Optic ID & Tags & Reflective pressure sensitive adhesives, Engraved, Routed Marina Dock Plates, Oil & Gas signs manufactured in plastics & metals. The company has many

Matthew Quagliana; Account Manager, Michael Quagliana; President, Councilman Greg Stewart, Albert A. Burlando; Founder & Chairman, Mayor Joe Nicastro, Lori McMahon; CEO and Jenna McMahon; Operations Manager.

BY HENRY M. HOLDEN

AREA - There are so many curious and unexpected things that occur during a war that greatly affect the people who live in the war zone. One event suddenly involved a young woman born in 1758 -(1822). Tempe (Probably short for Temperance) was born in Mendham on October 30, the youngest of five children in the Wick Family. Her father, Henry, had inherited a farm from his father John and her four older brothers and sisters were born there. In 1746, her father and Nathan Cooper jointly purchased 1,000 acres of good land, bordering the Passaic River. Nathan gave his share of the land to her father two years later. By that time, the family had moved to Jockey Hollow, just outside of Morristown, where the father purchased more land, expanding the property to 1,400 acres. He built a new, large home on the farm a few years later. Their property was one of the largest farms in Morristown. It had 1,000 acres of good timber, primarily oak and walnut. The orchards contained several hundred apple trees. Tempe said they made good, hard cider from this crop. They also had acreage under cultivation where they planted barley, oats and flax. Her four siblings moved out of the home before the War of Independence began.

Tempe Wick was the owner of a fine horse. Tempe and the horse had an unwritten agreement of respect for one another. and one of the legends of Amer-

The Legend of Tempe Wick

ica’s War for Independence.

The legend is one woven from equal measures of courage and ingenuity, a young woman alone and on the edge of a brutal winter, facing uncertainty with little more than her wits.

On December 21, 1780, Henry Wick died, leaving Tempe alone to care for her sick mother Mary, and her mentally ill brother. When her mother’s condition worsened, Tempe saddled her horse and rode for the home of Doctor William Leddell, who lived a few miles away. The doctor was not in, so Tempe left a message at the Leddell residence and headed home.

The Revolutionary War threw a dark shadow over the countryside, and rumors hung to the cold air like icicles on tree branches. In the muted quiet following her father’s death, the Wick homestead, in Jockey Hollow, became a fragile unbreakable dwelling and Tempe charged with care for her ailing mother and anxious brother.

But the region bristled with restless soldiers and whispers of mutiny. As Tempe was riding home from her visit to the doctor’s office, she was confronted by three mutineers from the Continental Army, demanding her horse.

Tempe’s prized mare became a target, coveted by weary men grown desperate. The threat was as real as the icy wind that whipped through the trees. Tempe understood that swift decisions might mean the differ-

ence between safety and loss, or life and death.

One of the mutineers grabbed the bridle of her horse, demanding that she give them her mount. Tempe agreed, but when the soldier released the bridle to help her down from the saddle, she whipped her horse and raced away for home. She arrived safely, but she feared the mutineers would follow her home and take the horse by force. Running away from them was not the answer and would only postpone the trouble for a short while. So, she knew she needed a different strategy. It would make no sense to ride past her house and ride on. She had no place to go. All the soldiers had to do was wait at her farm and for her to return.

Tempe road swiftly toward her home. Her thoughts were galloping as fast as her horse could run. As she was closing the distance to her home she reached a conclusion 0n what to do.

She did not ride toward the barn but dashed through the gateway of the large yard and swiftly dismounted. She turned toward the road, but the men were not in sight. She knew they would eventually show up since they were without horses and would eventually find the Wick house, and Tempe, if she did nothing.

What she had decided to do was something which people never did, but it was the only thing she could think of, and she was a girl whose actions were as

quick as her ideas were original. Without stopping for an instant, she took her horse to the back door and led him confidently into the house.

According to one version of the story, Tempe sprang from her horse and led the horse into the house via the back door and hid it in a guest bedroom. She closed the shutter over the window and put a feather bed under it to muffle the sound of its

Almetek...

Warning Panel added to Stop Signs, School Crossings and road signs increasing their visibility and safety.

Licensed manufacture to Lordon Inc. as well as full ownership to his daughters, Lori & Donna, Lordon Inc. is a WBE, WOSB, WBENC & SBE with operations at 426 Sand Shore Rd, Hackettstown, NJ 07840.

Al had semi-retired in 2007 but he continued inventing new products and working on special projects for the company. He and his wife Joyce settled in Wellington, Florida.

He later retired and his daughter Lori McMahon assumed the position of CEO while his son-in-law, Mike Quagliana, became President of Almetek Industries. His old-

hooves. She and her horse were now in total darkness. But none of the descriptions addressed the animal’s toilet needs.

In another version of the story, Tempe hid her horse in the kitchen. Claims are frequently made that a faint imprint of a horse’s shoe can be seen on the kitchen’s floor.

The soldiers arrived at her house soon after and searched the barn out buildings and

est daughter, Donna Quagliana, branched out from her original role at Almetek and became the Operations Manager for EZ Storage.

As a member of the Rotary Club of Palm Beach Flagler, Al was Chairman of the “BriteSide® Safer Roads Program” where 1000 BriteSide Panels were donated to the 47 cities of Rotary District 6930 in July 2014 to improve the safety of its most dangerous intersections and crossings.

His loving wife, Joyce, of over 50 years, passed away in August of 2019. He attributes many of his successes to her. He could not have started the family business without her patience, love, and support.

Al continues to be active in

the business even after 17 years of being retired. He is still inventing manufacturing processes from inside his Florida home.

Al is extremely proud to welcome the 3rd generation of family members to the family business. His grandchildren, Matt Quagliana joined Almetek in May of 2023, and the newest member, Jenna McMahon, joined the business in July of 2025. Through this next generation, Al’s legacy will live on for decades to come.

Al is the proud grandfather of 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He spends his summers in Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey where he gets to enjoy fishing, boating and being with his family.

Al’s hobbies include, photography, fishing, hunting, travel, flying, sporting clays, trap & skeet shooting This coming September will mark the 50th Anniversary of Almetek Industries, Inc. Al, Lori, Donna and Mike have always admired and appreciated the dedication of their employees these past 50 years. Without the support and hard-working members of their team, Almetek would not be as successful as it is today. The family and Al have immense pride and gratitude and will honor their employees along with the founder during a twoday celebration.

The 2nd event will be Almetek’ s 50th Anniversary Celebration and Employee Appreciation party held at the Chandelier at Flanders Valley, on September 12th, 2025. We will be giving give out Years of Service Awards, Mega Prize Raffles, and special employee gifts to show our appreciation.

woods around the house but they left empty-handed.

After the army passed Tempe’s home, she guided the horse out of the guest room and walked him back to his stall in the barn. The room in which the horse had spent so many quiet days (three weeks by some estimates} became guest quarters again.

Ghost Girls: The Tragic Legacy of Radium Dial Painters

BY HENRY M. HOLDEN

AREA - The story of the Ghost Girls more widely known as the Radium Girls is a haunting chapter in industrial history. In the early 1920s, young women in Essex County, New Jersey, began showing up in the office of doctors and dentists with problems such as aching bones, ulcers of the gum, toothlessness, anemia, and painful angina. The most common condition was Jaw Rot, the slow, partial and painful decay of bone and tissue in the mouth.

What puzzled scientists and medical personnel was the fact that the conditions were not seen in young males and seen only and in young females, in Essex County.

Much evidence of radiation poisoning was dismissed as anything other than what it was. For example, when a radium plant received complaints from neighbors that the fumes produced made it difficult to breathe and were staining their laundry yellow. They were dismissed as opportunism by immigrants desperate for money.

After being told that the paint was harmless, the women in each facility ingested deadly amounts of radium after being instructed to “point” their brushes on their lips in order to give them a fine tip. The women were instructed to point their brushes because using rags or a water rinse caused them to use more time and material, as the paint was made from powdered radium, zinc sulfide, gum Arabic, and water.

The Ghost Girls had lasting effects on the labor laws in the United States and Europe following expensive and plentiful lawsuits following deaths and illness from the ingestion of radium.

Early fact discovered that the women involved had worked at one time at the United States Radium Corporation, in Orange New Jersey.

For a while, the radium girls must have felt unbeatable. For one, unlike many other factory workers, dial-painters in the U.S. Radium Corporation (USRC) in Orange, New Jersey, made up to $40,000 per year, three times the average, and worked in much more serene and humane conditions. But the job had other inducements, too.

Not only were the women

contributing to the war effort, but they were also inscribing their names and addresses on the backs of the watches they made, thereby receiving letters from soldiers in return.

But their most significant contributions would be not to the war, but to science, medicine, and the rights of workers, and they would be made at a great personal cost.

When the women left their jobs and stepped out into the night, they glowed in the dark, earning the sobriquet nickname, the ghost girls, as a result. The glow was one of the side effects of unintentionally ingesting hazardous quantities of radium through dust at their workplace and the radioactive paint on their work brushes, which many of them licked to maintain a pointed end.

From 1917 to 1926, United States Radium Corporation (USRC), was engaged in the extraction and purification of radium from carnotite ore to produce luminous paints, which were marketed under the brand name “Undark.”

The ore was mined from the Paradox Valley in Colorado and other “Undark mines” in Utah. As a defense contractor, USRC was a major supplier of radial luminescent watches to the military. Their plant in Orange, New Jersey, employed as many as 300 workers, mainly very young girls and women, to paint radium-lit watch faces and instruments.

USRC hired approximately 70 women to perform various tasks including handling radium, while the owners and the scientists familiar with the effects of radium carefully avoided any exposure to it themselves. Chemists at the plant used the Radium Girls› saga to hold an important place in the history of the fields of health physics, women›s rights, and the labor rights movement. The right of individual workers to sue for damages from corporations due to labor abuse was established. Industrial standards for safety improved as a result, and in 1949, Congress passed a bill that ruled compensation for all workers suffering from occupational diseases.

An estimated 4,000 workers were hired by corporations in the U.S. and Canada to paint watch faces with radium. At USRC, each of the painters mixed their own paint in

a small container they used. They each had camel hairbrushes to apply the glowing paint onto dials. The rate of pay was about a penny and a half per dial (equivalent to $0.368 in 2024), earning the girls $3.75 (equivalent to $92.04 in 2024) for painting 250 dials per shift.

The brushes would lose shape after a few strokes, so the USRC supervisors encouraged their workers to point the brushes with their lips (“lip, dip, paint”), or use their tongues to keep them sharp. Because the true nature of the radium had been kept from them, the radium cirls also painted their nails, teeth, and faces for fun with the deadly paint produced at the factory. By 1927, more than 50 female factory workers had died from radium poisoning caused by the paint used.

The lawsuit and resulting publicity was a factor in the establishment of occupational disease labor law. Radium dial painters were instructed in proper safety precautions and provided with protective gear; in particular, they no longer shaped paint brushes by lip and avoided ingesting or breathing the paint. Radium paint was still used in dials as late as the 1970s. The last factory manufacturing radium paint shut down in 1978.

Other side effects, caused by radium poisoning that irretrievably settled into their bones, were much more serious. From damaging tissue and constantly reproducing bone marrow to causing different types of cancer, the crippling and often fatal injuries resulting from working with radium were wide range and terrifying.

Two sisters, Bessie (King) and her older sister Josephine (Quinn) work at American Radium in Orange, New Jersey, in 1928; their eldest sister Mary was also employed at the same factory before her death, allegedly from syphilis, three years earlier.

Yet Bessie’s progress at work was slower, as she refused to use her lips to soften and refined the tip of her camel-hair paint brush before each application, a technique known as “lip-pointing” that transferred over from porcelain painting. Bessie’s position also makes her work sloppier, thus earning her less money.

But, unknown to her at the time, it would spare her life. Josephine, however, began to exhibit side effects typical of radium poisoning; her teeth loosen and fell out, she coughs up blood and pieces of her “honeycombed” or “radium jaw”. Concerned about her ailing sister, Bessie asks the factory’s boss to recommend a doctor who could see Josephine. Instead of aiding his workers, the boss responds unfavorably.

Insinuating that Bessie and Josephine are acting like hysterical women, their boss tries to dismiss their symptoms as a byproduct of their sexuality or sexual repression. But, a doctor is finally sent their way, only to question Josephine about the adequacy of her personal hygiene regiment. He concluded that Josephine is fine, but the sisters ask him to run more tests.

The stigma of venereal disease and the implied promiscuity behind it, ensured that none of the respectable young ladies would be willing to bring negative attention to their illnesses. Radium victims frequently hired doctors who were more than happy to provide a false diagnosis for a sum they deemed high enough to silence their conscience.

Eventually, Josephine and Bess found Wylie Stephens, a lawyer gathering evidence of radium industrial poisoning, who convinces them of the need to exhume their sister Mary. In doing so, they discover that Mary’s bones contain 1,000 times the legal level of radium. Together, with their suspicions affirmed, they press on.

It’s also true that “at the beginning of the 20th century, radium was an additive in consumer products such as toothpaste, hair creams, and even food items because of its supposed beneficial health properties. In fact, ”the glowing ele-

ment was hailed as a panacea for everything from blindness to hysteria.” As such, it was difficult for victims to find representation.

Radium girls is based on five real women who filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Radium Corporation in 1928; their names were Grace Fryer, Edna Hussman, Katherine Schaub, and sisters Quinta McDonald and Albina Larice. After a very public trial, the plant settled, with each victim receiving $10,000, plus $600 for every year they were alive, but they all died shortly after.

By 1925, numerous scientists and government officials knew that the element was causing serious illness. But radium industry leaders continued to deny this fact, and concealed data that supported its existence, and worked hard to control the public narrative by promoting opinions that put the blame for the dial painters’ illnesses elsewhere.

Similarly, a doctor was hired by USRC. He did not have a medical degree, but a PhD, which did not grant him the authority to examine the young woman. Still, he arrives at a diagnosis: syphilis. This is further unsettling, considering that Josephine is a virgin and the girls’ sister Mary, who also exhibited similar symptoms, had the same diagnosis.

Any film evidence of radiation poisoning was dismissed as anything other than what it was. For example, when a radium plant received complaints from neighbors that the fumes produced made it difficult to breathe, no one took the warning signs seriously.

“At the beginning of the 20th century, radium was an additive in consumer products such as toothpaste, hair creams, and even food items because of its supposed beneficial health properties. The glowing element was hailed as a panacea for everything

from blindness to hysteria.” As such, it was difficult for victims to find representation.

“The Radium Girls’ lawsuit had tarnished the reputation of the magical miracle worker of radium,’’ wrote Taylor Orci, in 2013, for The Atlantic. “Gone were the days where the element was blindly celebrated, such as in the musical Piff, Paff, Pouf, where a song called The Radium Dance was a huge selling point.” But the fight was far from over, and other suits followed.

The final radium-related lawsuit was filed by fa workers against the Illinois-based Radium Dial Company. “Beginning in 1927, employees asked management for compensation for medical and dental bills, but they were consistently rebuffed, and in 1937, five women finally found an attorney to represent their interests in courts.” It probably helped their case that Marie Curie (18671934) — who discovered radium in 1898, through her work on radioactivity, which partly involved searching for possible medical applications for the element — died of aplastic anemia just three years earlier, at the age of 66. Her illness was likely caused by her prolonged exposure to the element.

Though the Illinois Industrial Commission ruled in their favor in 1938, Radium Dial appealed, effectively sending the case to the U.S. Supreme Court. But, in October of 1939, the Supreme Court declined to hear the plant’s appeal and upheld the lower court’s original ruling. After eight more lawsuits, Radium was finally forced to pay the workers poisoned at their plant.

The half- life of radium is roughly 1,600 years. Today, roughly 100 years after their death, the Radium Girls are still glowing where they are buried

BY HENRY M. HOLDEN STAFF WRITER

AREA - Baseball is deeply woven into the fabric of American culture. From local little leagues to high-stakes games in Major League Baseball (MLB) stadiums, the sport has nurtured a sense of community and pride for generations. There are iconic moments, such as Babe Ruth’s legendary home runs. Babe Ruth was a highly prolific baseball player who created history with his career records for home runs (714), slugging (690), runs batted in (2213) and bases on balls (2062)—many of which were broken only decades after his retirement.

Jackie Robinson became the first Black American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era, on April 15, 1947.

Lou Gehrig’s moving farewell speech given on July 4, 1939, at Yankee Stadium (now known as Lou Gehrig Day) is considered the most famous speech in baseball history. The speech came just after Gehrig had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Baseball, often referred to as “America’s pastime,” is much more than just a sport; it is a cultural phenomenon that has shaped the lives and identities of millions of fans worldwide. With its rich history, complicated strategies, and moments of sheer athleticism, baseball has maintained a exclusive position in the world of sports, flawlessly blending nostalgia with innovation.

Baseball –America’s Favorite Pastime

The weather in New Jersey on Sunday, June 25, 1922, was close to picture-perfect. The sky was clear with puffy white clouds and a warm breeze from the southwest. Temperatures were in the low 70s, perfect baseball game weather.

In Hackensack, 2000 eager fans packed the local field known as the Oval to watch their semi-pro team take on a visiting club from Westwood.

A new centerfielder, listed on the roster as Josephs, put in a sterling performance. Hitting a single and a double and he slams one over the fence. His fielding was just outstanding. He rifled a line drive to the home plate getting the out and another from second base.

Thanks to a lanky unknow player, the Westwood team won game 9 to 6.

The Hackensack players smelled a rat. Finally, the members of the Westwood team admitted they had this centerfielder called Jacksons.

There was something familiar about the player’s unique batting stance. The Westwood captain finally admitted the truth. Josephs was really Joseph “shoeless Joe Jackson” a former star of the Chicago White Sox.

How did the great Shoeless Joe wind up playing baseball under and assume name, on a Jersey farm team?

The 1919 World Series was the championship series in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the 1919 season. The 16th edition of the World Series, it matched the American League

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champion Chicago White Sox against the National League champion Cincinnati Reds. Although most World Series have been of the best-of-seven format, the 1919 World Series was a best-of-nine series. The National Commission decided to try the best-of-nine format to increase popularity of the sport and partly to generate more revenue.

The events of the 1919 World Series are often associated with the Black Sox Scandal, in which several members of the Chicago franchise conspired with gamblers, allegedly led by organized crime figure Arnold Rothstein, to throw the series. It was the last World Series to take place without a Commissioner of Baseball in place. In 1920, the various franchise owners installed Kenesaw Mountain Landis as the first “Commissioner of Baseball.”

In August 1921, despite being acquitted 0n criminal charges, eight players from the White Sox were banned from organized baseball for either fixing the series or having knowledge about the fix without alerting the league. Dickey Kerr, another player on the team who was not involved in the scandal, was later suspended after holding out for more pay, but was eventually reinstated. The nine banned players including Jackson were the first official players banned in the modern MLB era, as well as by Landis throughout his tenure as commissioner.

“Shoeless” Joe Jackson was

one of baseball’s greatest hitters and most colorful players. Born Joseph Jefferson Wofford Jackson on July 16, 1888, in Pickens County, South Carolina. Jackson went to work in a textile mill when he was six years old and got his start in baseball playing for the Brandon Mill team at the age of 13 earning $2.50 a game. He emerged as the star of the team and a favorite of fans with his hitting and throwing abilities, and moved up to play in the Carolina Association, where he received his nickname “Shoeless” because the blisters on his feet from new shoes forced him to play in his stockings. He then made his move to the major leagues, signing on with the Philadelphia Athletics and rising to fame.

Jackson’s life from his poor beginnings to his involvement in the scandal surrounding the 1919 World Series to his life after baseball and his death December 5, 1951, with most of the work focusing on his baseball career.

Joe Jackson was an illiterate boy from the mountains of South Carolina. He got his start in baseball playing for a cotton mill team. His talent propelled him up into the minor leagues and then into the majors.

The origins of baseball can be traced back to the early 19th century in North America, evolving from older bat-andball games such as rounders.

While the exact roots remain debated, Alexander

ences.

Cartwright is widely credited with formalizing the rules of modern baseball in 1845. His codified rules laid the groundwork for the organized game we recognize today, including the diamond-shaped field, three strikes per at-bat, and nine-player teams.

By the late 19th century, baseball had solidified itself as a professional sport with the creation of leagues such as the National League in 1876, and the American League in 1901. These leagues eventually merged to form Major League Baseball (MLB), which has since become the pinnacle of the sport globally.

After being banned from baseball for his alleged role in the 1919 Black Sox Scandal, Shoeless Joe Jackson spent the remainder of his life running various businesses in the South, including a dry-cleaning business, a pool hall, and a liquor store. He consistently maintained his innocence regarding the scandal and died of a heart attack in 1951.

In 2025, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred removed Jackson from the permanently ineligible list, making him eligible for the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Beyond the game itself, baseball has influenced art, literature, and film. Classics like “Field of Dreams” and “The Natural” capture its emotional core, while writers such as Ernest Thayer have mythologized its significance in poems like “Casey at the Bat.”

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However, the sport faces challenges in maintaining its popularity in the age of fastpaced and high-action sports like basketball and soccer. Efforts are being made to attract younger audiences, including rule changes to speed up the game, expanded playoffs, and more interactive fan experi-

However, the bans that were once considered permanent by the MLB (like those of the Black Sox and Dickey Kerr) officially ended on May 12, 2025, by commissioner Rob Manfred due to him ruling that people that were banned from the league would no longer represent a threat to the game of baseball upon death, and as such were lifted on that fateful day. The nine players that were once banned by the MLB (most notably Shoeless Joe Jackson and Eddie Cicotte) are now considered eligible for entry into the Baseball Hall of Fame by as early as 2027.

Lou Gehrig’s moving farewell speech given on July 4, 1939, at Yankee Stadium (now known as Lou Gehrig Day) is considered the most famous speech in baseball history.

BY HENRY M. HOLDEN STAFF WRITER

AREA - Early in the war for Independence, General George Washington was aware that he was an obvious target for enemy kidnappers, snipers and assassins. Washington’s capture or death on the battlefield would probably result in a power vacuum giving the enemy an unprecedent advantage in the war.

Knowing his life was in real danger George Washington formed a special unit in 1776, to guard him personally, as well as his private papers and baggage. The unit was known as Washington’s Life Guard, but it also answered to such names as His Excellencies Guard, and the Commander in Chief. The Guard’s motto was Conquer or Die, leaving no uncertainty as to their mission. The terms of enlistment in the Guard were the same as other enlisted men however, Washington directed specifications on the selection of this corps:

“His Excellency depends upon the Colonels for good men, such as they can recommend for their sobriety, honesty, and good behavior; he wishes them to be from five feet, eight inches high, to five feet, ten inches; handsomely and well made. There is nothing in his eyes more desirable, than cleanliness in a soldier. He desires that particular attention may be made, in the choice of such men, as are neat, and spruce. They were to be a “corps of sober, intelligent, and reliable men.”

Though assigned to protect the body of the Commander-in-Chief, they were not spared during battle, playing an active role when conditions warranted. When not in action, the Life Guard’s role would be similar to what is now called a Headquarters Security Detachment.

Since it was a unit of distinction, it was deemed necessary to represent the entire army by having men selected from each colony. Every regiment was to provide four men. The corps marched to New York with approximately fifty men, but within a year had a strength of 180 men.

During the winter of 177980, initially there were only 50

George Washington’s Life Guard

handpicked men in the Guard. Each had to be a native-born American. They were elite troops better dressed and better drilled for the task of providing safety for the chief. For all the prestige and responsibility, the salary of the Guard was paid the same wage as all other officers and soldiers.

The Guard’s exclusive primary responsibility, however, was to protect Washington, at any cost. When the word of possible British advance on Newark, George Washington’s elite soldiers were placed on roads surrounding Morristown.

Morristown was a town the British needed to capture and exploit. It held the routes to the thriving iron mines and forges. The British needed to stop the army from turning the iron into steel that could then be turned into weapons.

Mount Freedom, situated on the top of an 800-foot mountain part of the Watchung Mountain range was also General Washington’s headquarters, and command and control center and considered by the British to be the heart of the war.

Occasionally, as many as 300 men were posted to guard George Washington, although about 150 was more likely the average. A roaming George Washington Guard was sent from Jockey Hollow each day to augmented Lifeguard.

The Guard arrived in Morristown, in 1779, three days after Washington who had been living in the Ford Mansion, Guard members built their own huts on the property about 200 feet south of the mission mansion. Later they cured and trimmed logs and built the walls and a roof of a new kitchen for the Ford Mansion. There is some evidence that they may also have built a log cabin; and a log office attached to the west side of the mansion.

Hercules Mulligan emigrated with his family to New York as a child in 1740. He eventually opened a tailoring business in Manhattan, where he made suits for high-ranking British officers. But behind the measuring tape, Mulligan was working for the American cause—risking his life to spy

on his own customers.

Charming, clever, and completely underestimated, Mulligan had exactly what the revolution needed, access. British soldiers who confided in him, unaware that he was passing on their plans to the rebels— often through his enslaved assistant, Cato, who acted as a courier. The pair were an unlikely but critical link in Washington’s intelligence network.

Mulligan risked his life not once but twice knowing that if he were discovered he would be executed as a spy for the Colonials.

For all the responsibility of George Washington’s Life Guard they were paid the same wage as all other officers and soldiers. They were not all well-educated, and several are known to have signed their payments payrolls with an X.

Many of the jobs were menial. At least six of them worked for Washington as servants. and another as a cook. Three men worked as stable hands. As many as fourteen could be assigned to pick up supplies and many worked as messengers. The commander of the Guard, Captain Caleb Gibbs, was responsible for keeping the headquarters expense accounts and overseeing the Guard’s responsibility.

Throughout the American Revolutionary War, George Washington’s personal bodyguard was an elite corps of infantry and mounted men. It was officially entitled The Commander-in-Chief’s Guard but was more commonly known as The Lifeguard.

Troop movements became dangers to Washington’s person. A surprise raid upon headquarters by colonial Tories and or British raiders became a serious possibility. A personal Guard to the Commander-in-Chief became necessary.

The Guard’s purpose was to physically protect General George Washington. However, they were also further assigned the responsibility of protecting the Continental Army’s official papers as well as the general’s baggage.

The Guard was increased to 250 while the army was stationed in Morristown, NJ, close to the British army. Its strength returned to 180 men

in the spring and in the last year of its existence, reduced to 64 men. Besides officers and enlisted, there were six drummers, six fifers, and a drum major.

The Life Guard was first commanded by Rhode Islander Captain Caleb Gibbs who bore the title of ‘Captain Commandante.’ Gibbs formed the corps with the assistance of Washington’s nephew, Lieutenant George Lewis. The other lieutenants were Henry Livingston of New York, William Colfax of New Jersey, and Benjamin Goyman of Virginia.

Under Gibbs, the guard participated in every major battle of the northern campaign. Many guardsmen were wounded while guarding Washington or detached to other regiments during the action. Gibbs was promoted to major by June 6th, 1780, when 152 guardsmen, along with the Rhode Island Regiment, held off a heavy frontal attack during the Battle of Springfield. By the end of the year, Gibbs was promoted to Brevet Lt. Colonel and transferred to the 2nd Massachusetts. William Colfax of New Jersey succeeded Gibbs as commander and towards

the end of the war, he was replaced by Captain Bezaleel Howe, of the New Hampshire Battalion. Howe was destined to command the Life Guard on its last mission – seeing that Washington’s baggage and army records were transferred to Mt. Vernon, VA.

Despite the extraordinary efforts 0f today’s U.S. Secret Service to keep their charges safe; attempts on presidents and presidential candidates continues to be a seemingly endless threat. On April 14, 1865, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, followed by James A. Garfield in 1881, William M, Mckinley 1901, John F. Kennedy 1963. There have been fourteen attempted assassinations (two of which were on Gerald Ford, and two on Donald J. Trump within weeks of each other).

Each of the Guard had to be a native-born American. They were elite troops better dressed and better drilled for the task of providing safety for the chief. For all the prestige and responsibility, the salary of the Guard was paid the same wage as all other officers and soldiers.

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