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Virtual Wedding Brings Happiness Through Coronavirus Epidemic

By Megan Roche ike many people, the time of coronavirus has been scary, sparked a fear of the unknown, and has forced vacations and concert cancellations, but also weddings and funerals. One of those weddings that was cancelled still went on and observed social distancing through the popular teleconference app Zoom. Amanda Nicastro had been planning the day that every little girl dreams of for over a year and a half. Amanda and fiancée Matt Schey met six years ago through mutual friends. The two hit it off and got engaged in October of 2018. Through dress shopping, food and wine tastings, and venue shopping, the two spent much time planning their special day. When things started to get bad with the coronavirus epidemic, the two held out hope that their April 4 ceremony would still go on. The two were supposed to get married in a beautiful barn in Pennsylvania, Amanda had the dress of her dreams, and Matt couldn’t believe that he was going to marry her. When the two received a call from their venue, there were a lot of tears shed. Their wedding was officially cancelled. “We waited until our venue had to cancel. We held out for as long as we could. We cancelled the entire thing, including our honeymoon plans. We don’t really have the flexibility to make plans for the future, because everything is still very up in the air because of the coronavirus. We knew in our heart that it was over. The day that I was told that I was out of work, things were shutting down, more and more people were home, we knew the wedding was over. You want to stay hopeful and we held on to as much hope as we could until we were basically told that we had no choice.”

Amanda shared. 2020 was supposed to be a year of happiness for the Nicastro clan. Amanda’s father, Joe, turned 60, Amanda’s sister, Kearstin had just had a son, Amanda was about to turn 30. All of that had been put on hold because of coronavirus. The two opted to hold their wedding anyway, virtually. Amanda’s brother, Frank Saya, performed the ceremony, which was a special moment. The two had originally planned to hold the Zoom call with just their families and close friends, but at the last minute sent out the link to all their guests who had been invited. The turnout was over 100 people, many of whom were dressed in suits and dresses. “It was definitely different, but everyone showed up for us,” Matt shared. “It was really overwhelming to see how many people really cared about us. We even had people come to the Zoom wedding that couldn’t be there at the actual ceremony because of other commitments.” After the ceremony, though it wasn’t their Hawaiian honeymoon they had planned, the two shared a walk around the neighborhood together. Amanda and Matt will embark on another new journey when the two become parents when they welcome their first child, a girl, in September. They ultimately plan to still hold a reception to celebrate their nuptials with family and friends when the coronavirus epidemic is over. “It was definitely sad that we had to cancel it. Just because we spent so much time planning this moment. But in the end, all that matters is that you marry the person you plan on marrying. Everyone always told us that your wedding day is not going to go the way you plan. At the end of the day, the most important thing is that

you are starting your life with this person.” Matt shared. Amanda knows one thing for sure. She still plans to share her dance with her father, whether it be in a living room or a banquet facility. “My dad is my best friend in the whole world. I have had the song picked out that

I wanted to dance to with my dad since I was in the sixth grade, “In My Life” by the Beatles. I told my dad, Matt and I still plan to celebrate when this is all over, I’ll have my dad walk me down the aisle then and I can always share that special moment with him in our living room.”

Page 2 • April 7, 2020

Are You Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired? Exploring Another Treatment Option for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

hronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome (CFIS) also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) is a disabling and poorly understood illness that is becoming more widespread in Western countries. CFIS is a term used to describe a myriad of neurological, neuromuscular, and immunological abnormalities. The initial onset of CFIS consists of flu-like symptoms including fever, sore throat, tender lymph nodes, chills and extreme fatigue. The chronic manifestations of CFIS always include disabling fatigue but can also include muscle and joint pain, sleep disorders, headaches, hypo- or hypersensitivities, cognitive disorders, depression, malaise, anxiety, irritability, confusion, weight fluctuations, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, muscle fatigue, worsening PMS, visual disturbances, tachycardia, paresthesias, dry eyes, dry mouth, night sweats, skin rashes and decreased sexual desire. The etiology of CFIS is still unknown, but the suspected cause is a viral infection. Some researchers believe that CFIS is actually a neurological response to a viral infection. Since there are no absolute markers or lab

tests to confirm the illness, chronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome is often diagnosed by symptoms alone and by process of elimination. For the same reasons, western medicine has no treatment for chronic fatigue. Instead, doctors prescribe individual medications to deal with each of the associated symptoms. As with any illness, traditional Chinese medicine treats the individual on a case- bycase basis. A diagnosis is made based on the individual’s symptoms as well as their tongue and pulse presentations. The patient’s tongue is inspected and 6 pulses are felt on each wrist in order for the Acupuncturist/ Chinese Medical Practitioner to determine the diagnosis. Since chronic fatigue manifests differently in each person, this method of diagnosing is superior. The treatment plan is then formulated based on the individual’s diagnosis. As you can see in the chart- one Acupuncture treatment plan will address all of the individual’s symptoms as well as the illness as a whole. This is known as a root and branch treatment. Addressing the root cause of the chronic fatigue is addressing the illness as a whole while treating the branch

aims to relieve all of the symptoms associated with the illness. A single Chinese herbal formula can also be prescribed to treat both the root and branch of the chronic fatigue syndrome.

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April 7, 2020 • Page 3

COVID-19 Brings Increasingly Difficult Challenges to the Homeless of Morris County

n recent weeks, the COVID-19 virus has thrown difficult obstacles at every member of our society; these struggles are especially challenging for the homeless and working poor of Morris County. On the snowy morning of March 23rd, Morris County staff carefully came together with Homeless Solutions, Inc. (HSI) staff, and Morris Habitat for Humanity’s Restore to relocate homeless individuals in an effort to aid social distancing. The goal of this move was to provide a larger space to live at a time when personal space is paramount to physical health. The impressive mobilization brought 29 residents of HSI’s Single Men’s Program and their Warming Center to a previously vacant location just across the parking lot at 560 West Hanover Avenue. Prior to this heroic and heartwarming effort many of these individuals were in dormitory style living, with many sleeping in bunk beds and several people in very close proximity. Thanks to the new building space from Morris County and gently used furniture from Morris Habitat’s Restore the shelter now is able to provide more space and the ability to adhere to the 6 feet rule. Some of the residents

even have their own private room. “It is important to help our county residents who are in need during this time of crisis,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Director Deborah Smith. “We heard the call for help from Homeless Solutions and are doing what we can to help their clients.’’ This additional space will not only help with the social distancing for the safety of the shelter guests but also help HSI staff as they work with a “house” under quarantine. There are almost 90 people living there all dealing with the trauma of homelessness. The staff at HSI are working hard as they navigate through this continually evolving situation. They no longer have access to their diaper and formula banks and are now responsible for providing lunches and dinners each day since their shelter guests are not leaving the property. Dan McGuire, HSI CEO is inspired by his staff, “they’ve taken it to a whole new level in how they’ve stepped up to meet the challenges of COVID-19 on our programs and overall operations! Their response to the pandemic has been nothing short of heroic to me”. Moments of crisis often bring out the

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Page 4 • April 7, 2020

Opinions

A VIEW FROM THE LEFT

EDITORIAL &

Americans Rally to Their Presidents in Times of Crisis

emocrats are beside themselves; after President Donald Trump’s consistently inconsistent and uneven public pronouncements on the seriousness of the coronavirus, moving in one 24-hour period from “something we have tremendous control over” to our “toughest enemy: the invisible enemy” and limiting all crowds to fewer than 10, his poll numbers have gone up. How, they ask, could this be the case when the president’s leadership of this “war” has been start-stop, don’t-worrybe-happy? The answer is found in history. At times of crisis -- even crises in which the sitting president has seemingly made things worse rather than better -- the natural American reaction is to rally to the flag, to support the commander in chief. Take the failed invasion of Cuba in 1961 ordered by President John F. Kennedy. It was a total failure. The Cuban expatriates leading the attack were captured as soon as they landed. Yet Kennedy’s job approval rating in the aftermath, after he took responsibility for the failure, saying, “Victory has 100 fathers, and defeat is an orphan ... I’m the responsible officer of the government,” soared to 83% positive. When President Jimmy Carter was in office, the shah of Iran was admitted to the U.S. for medical treatment, and Iranian revolutionaries took Americans at the U.S. embassy in Tehran hostage and kept them there until Carter left office fifteen months later. And what happened in the polls? Jimmy Carter’s job rating had been 31% positive and climbed in little over one month to 61% approval. Rallying to the flag is an established national impulse. Even Ronald Reagan, who won elec-

Mark Shields tion and reelection in successive electoral landslides, and whose approval rating was just 51% positive on inauguration day, watched -- painfully -- after he was gravely wounded in a 1981 assassination attempt as his job rating jumped up to 68% approval. What ought to be surprising is the very small bump up in his poll numbers Trump has yet been given. One reason is that Trump, in the phrase of pollster Peter Hart, one of the founders of the Wall Street Journal/NBC News Poll, has had “a trading range of low 40s to high 40s, with his average rating at 45.” Other presidents have had their job ratings climb to the 60s during good times and then fall into the 30s when things went south. President George H.W. Bush was at 89% approval after the successful, short Gulf War in 1991 and then saw his job rating plummet to 29% positive -- a fall of 60% -- by the summer of 1992, the year he would lose reelection. Donald Trump has not had the traditional public rallying to his side that continued on page 6

S B UM

DOWN

Questions About State Department’s ‘China First’ Shipment

little less than two months ago, the U.S. State Department made a curious announcement that suggests President Trump’s “America First” administration put “China First” at a critical moment during the burgeoning Wuhan pandemic. I asked the State Department about the controversy this week -- and the vague and nonresponsive responses I received on background from a Foggy Bottom spokesperson raise more questions than they answer. The Feb. 7, 2020 press statement attributed to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is headlined: “The United States Announces Assistance to Combat the Novel Coronavirus.” That week, we are told, the State Department “facilitated the transportation of nearly 17.8 tons of donated medical supplies to the Chinese people, including masks, gowns, gauze, respirators, and other vital materials. These donations are a testament to the generosity of the American people.” Whoa, whoa, whoa. Nearly 18 tons of critical medical supplies went to the Communist government whose country unleashed COVID-19 on the world, downplayed it, punished whistleblowers who warned about it and attacked critics worldwide as racist? Whose idea was this “generosity?” Which “American people” approved this plan? Was the aid solicited or unsolicited? I asked our government. The answer: “We have no additional details at this time.” The press statement elaborated further that “the United States government is announcing it is prepared to spend up to $100 million in existing funds to assist China and other impact-

Michelle Malkin ed countries... to contain and combat the novel coronavirus. This commitment -- along with the hundreds of millions generously donated by the American private sector -- demonstrates strong U.S. leadership in response to the outbreak.” How much of the “up to $100 million” has been spent to assist China instead of the American people since Feb. 7, I asked our government. The answer: No reply. By what means were the 18 tons of medical goods transported: Air or sea? If by sea, on what ships were the goods transported to China and when and where did they arrive? If by air, which carriers transported the goods and when and where did they arrive? (I asked about shipping because U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao’s family owns the New York-based multinational shipping behemoth, Foremost Group. The mega-fleet was built in China, subsidized with loans from the ChiComs’ continued on page 6

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April 7, 2020 • Page 5

Caldwell University’s School of Nursing and Public Health Donates Personal Protective Equipment for COVID-19 Response

aldwell University’s School of Nursing and Public Health has donated personal protective equipment to Morristown Medical Center for the dedicated health care professionals who are working during the coronavirus outbreak. When Nursing faculty member Jennifer Rhodes, DNP heard that The American Association of Colleges of Nursing was calling on member schools to donate the much-needed equipment to their community healthcare facilities, she jumped into gear. She spearheaded a collection from the university for Morristown since Caldwell University partners with the Center for its nursing students’ clinical work and several alumni work there. The university donated masks, gloves, isolation gowns, Clorox wipes, Purell hand sanitizer, germicidal wipes, sterile dressing kits and goggles. “As a former emergency room nurse, I cannot imagine what they are experiencing on the front lines right now.” Rhodes has been thinking of her colleagues and nurses who have graduated from Caldwell University who are working in response to COVID-19. “The least I could do was find a way to help.” She is continuing to secure donations from her friends and colleagues who want to help. Donna Naturale, DNP, associate dean in the School of Nursing and Public Health, says they are proud of all

those who are dedicating their skills to the crisis including Rhodes, and Roxanne Sabatini, an adjunct in the Master in Science in Nursing in Population Health program. Sabatini is a nurse educator who was unable to teach this spring due to her work with COVID-19 response at the hospital. “We need nurses and public health educators more than ever at this challenging time,” said Naturale.

Have a human interest story or something you would like to share? Email us at editor@mylifepublications.com

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Nursing Professor Jennifer Rhodes spearheaded a collection of personal protective equipment from Caldwell University’s School of Nursing and Public Health for Morristown Medical Center.

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Page 6 • April 7, 2020

China First...

continued from page 4 Export-Import bank and conducts nearly three-quarters of its freight business in China. Secretary Chao was designated an “international consultant” of the Wuhan government in 2009. Her sister, Angela Chao, is CEO of Foremost and organized a humanitarian shipment of masks, gloves and gowns from New York to Wuhan in partnership with the “Hubei Charity Foundation” a week after the State Department’s press statement.) I also asked whether any of the precious medical supply items shipped to China in February were sent back to the U.S. as part of White House adviser Jared Kushner’s “Project Airbridge” transfer of personal protective equipment last weekend from China to New York -- including 130,000 N95 masks, 1.8 million face masks and gowns, more than 10.3 million gloves

and more than 70,000 thermometers? Here’s the full answer I received from the State Department spokesperson: “In early February the American people demonstrated their characteristic generosity by donating 17.8 tons of medical supplies to help the Chinese people contain the impact and stem the spread of COVID-19 from Wuhan to other parts of China and the world. These donations were provided by Samaritan’s Purse, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Intermountain Healthcare, and Boeing. The State Department facilitated the delivery of these medical supplies to Project HOPE in China on flights that ultimately brought home over 800 American citizens back from Wuhan at the outbreak of the pandemic.” Odd. Very odd. Boeing’s huge shipment

Americans Rally continued from page 4 previous presidents have enjoyed. But, let it be noted, that while Trump has a “low ceiling” in how high his numbers climb, he also has a very “high floor” to support him -- beneath which he has yet to slip.

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of 250,000 medical masks was reported on Jan. 29, more than a week before the State Department’s announcement. Side note: Was it “characteristic generosity” or self-serving corporate relations? The troubled aircraft company has been desperately seeking business after China’s de facto boycott the past couple of years and stands to benefit most from the China trade deal signed in January. Also: Did the multinational company’s purported goodwill gesture deprive the American people of scarce PPE resources? Sure seems so. LDS’s own press statement about its donations to China was also released Jan. 29 and made no mention of the State Department’s role in facilitating delivery of “220,000 respirator masks, 870 protective goggles and more than 6,500 protective coveralls.” It appears LDS has its very own special relationship with “Project Hope,” a nongovernmental organization that works closely with the Chinese Ministry of Health. The church chartered flights from Salt Lake City and Atlanta to Shanghai at

Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, graduation? Have a human interest story? Email us at editor@mylifepublications.com

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the behest of its president, Dr. Russell Nelson, who had performed heart surgeries in China. Photos of the LDS church’s PPE drop show LDS volunteers in Shanghai smiling in front of a massive wall of 3M boxes full of medical equipment on Feb. 4. Finally, the State Department’s red-flag mention that some of the planes used to deliver these resources to China brought back 800 Americans from Wuhan deserves more probing. Was this entire “charitable” exercise -- which sent abroad 18 tons of the very items Americans are now desperately scraping to manufacture out of paper towels, pillow fabric and bandanas -- cover for some sort of COVID-pro-quo? Inquiring minds ought to want to know. Michelle Malkin’s email address is MichelleMalkinInvestigates@protonmail. com. To find out more about Michelle Malkin and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2020 CREATORS.COM

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Page 8 • April 7, 2020

5 Questions with a Virologist on COVID-19

s the COVID-19 pandemic continues to progress in the United States and worldwide, many are trying to better understand what the virus is and how it affects humans. D. Brian Nichols, assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Seton Hall University, has conducted extensive research on virus-host interactions and, specifically, how viruses affect the immune responses of their hosts. He recently addressed these topics as they pertain to COVID-19. 1. COVID-19 is referred to as a “novel virus.” Can you tell us what that means and what impact it has on the effect of the disease on human beings and a potential vaccine? “Novel” in this context means that it recently emerged to affect humans. It is strongly believed that bats are the source of the current infectious agent with an unknown animal likely serving as an intermediate host. Bats harbor a wide variety of coronaviruses related to the original SARSCoV. As the human population comes more and more in contact with these animals, risk of exposure and the risk of viruses that can infect humans goes up significantly. Coronaviruses are RNA viruses, which means RNA is the genetic material. Unlike cellular organisms that use DNA as the genetic material, RNA viruses replicate without significant proofreading of their genetic material. What

that means is that these viruses—which reproduce themselves over and over again— make a lot of mistakes when the genetic material is copied. Most of these mistakes lead to inactive viruses that lose the ability to infect cells, but some mistakes result in viruses that are capable of infecting new hosts. This event likely led to the emergence of the novel coronavirus, officially designated as SARS-CoV 2, the causative agent of Covid-19. The most likely scenario at present is that humans came in contact with animals in Chinese wet markets. The large number of people in contact with exotic live animals there, combined with butchering these animals in that wet market, created what could be seen as the perfect environment where the new SARS-CoV 2 could emerge to infect humans. Being a new virus that has never circulated in humans before means that vaccine research essentially started when the virus was identified in December 2019. Simply put, until it was identified, there was no virus to design a vaccine against. Normally, vaccines take years to be developed and go through human trials. The fact that we have a vaccine in trials is really amazing and a tribute to the hard work of the researchers who have been studying this virus. As my colleague Dr. Constantine Bitsaktsis, who studies vaccine development, has pointed out, the speed and approval for clinical trials

of Covid-19 vaccines is truly unprecedented. However, evaluating the vaccine will take time. Also, the original SARS-CoV emerged in 2003, and generating a vaccine to that virus has proven to be challenging. 2. You specialize in understanding and characterizing virus-host interactions and viral antagonism of host immune responses. What can you tell us about the virus-host interactions of COVID-19? Typically, when viruses infect a cell, the cell activates its innate immune response to attempt to eradicate viruses. The human body essentially marshals its resources to fight against what is, in essence, the invasion of a foreign entity. These responses include inflammation, inducing cell death to destroy both the cell and the virus, and activating antiviral proteins such as interferon. It can, in some ways, be considered a “shotgun” approach, with the initial immune response scattering its shot and killing everything in the vicinity of the threat. All these efforts are in place to try and contain the infection. Eventually, in what can be thought of as “the next wave” of defense, the adaptive immune response is activated to destroy any viruses that were not killed in the initial response. The adaptive response includes B cells producing antibodies to target and neutralize remaining viruses in the body. For viruses, the most important part of the adaptive im-

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April 7, 2020 • Page 9

of vaccines and why it is so important to be immunized against infectious agents. Viruses, however, are not in the habit of going quietly. Viruses have evolved complex strategies to prevent the body’s immune response from activating. In the case of the original SARS-CoV, we know that it blocks the activation of several key immune pathways. By modulating the host’s immune response, SARS-CoV was able to ensure a successful infection by escaping the body’s defenses. It’s also important to note that things can go wrong on the defense as well. Sometimes the immune system overresponds to infection. I always tell my students to think of the immune system working best in the so-called Goldilocks zone. Too little of an immune response and the virus is not cleared. Too much and the body’s own immune response damages the body trying to clear the virus. 3. What can you tell us about host immune responses in humans to COVID-19? There’s a lot we don’t know at the moment. It’s likely that in some individuals, the immune response is not strong enough to kill the virus, and as the virus replicates it destroys the lungs, leading to severe complications and possibly even death. In others, it seems to be that the virus induces a cytokine storm. Cytokines are produced by immune cells to communicate and coordinate responses to infectious agents. In

these patients, too much cytokines results in an immune response that damages the patient’s own body, leading to severe complications. This scenario may be responsible for a number of the severe cases and even mortality among those who seem to otherwise healthy. To use the Goldilocks analogy, this would be a case of the porridge being too hot. The cytokine storm is not unique to SARS-CoV 2. This event has been noted in other great pandemics including the 1918 Spanish Flu, Avian Influenza, and the original SARS-CoV. The reasons why some individuals have an over-active immune response against severe human coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV 2 is still poorly understood. What is known is that when this event is triggered, the body’s own innate immune responses in the shotgun approach to eradicate the virus trigger acute lung injury which can in some cases be fatal. In a patient dealing with chronic diseases, this event may be too much to overcome and may at least partially explain why individuals with certain pre-existing conditions have higher mortality ratios. 4. Removing for a moment age and underlying health conditions, why is the virus affecting different people so differently? There’s a variety of factors likely at play, many of which are still in the process of coming to light through scientific enquiry and testing. I think it is worth mentioning that

most cases of Covid-19 are very mild. I am also mindful that mild means many things to different people. In mild cases it can range from signs and symptoms akin to a severe flu, to signs and symptoms similar to that of the common cold. Many patients also report mild pneumoniae, which is still significant, but does not require hospitalization. In addition, people may become infected and never even know they have it. Many people infected with SARS-CoV 2 are completely asymptomatic and would never know they had it in the absence of a test. Fortunately, children seem to be the latter, though there have been some exceptions usually involving pre-existing conditions. On that note, it is known that age is a factor, which can be reproduced using mice in the lab. The older the patient gets, the more likely the risk of severe complications, with patients over 60 experiencing the most significant complications with the disease. 5. There seems to have been some success in treating the coronavirus with some drugs, including the malaria drug chloroquine and favipiravir. Can you tell us more about that and why these drugs may work in halting the disease in individuals? Favipiravir inhibits the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase of several notable RNA viruses including the influenza virus. The RNA-dependent RNA polymerase is an enzyme encoded in the viral genome and pro-

duced by the cell during infection. The function of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase is to replicate the viral RNA genetic material which is used to make progeny viruses. Without the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, the virus cannot successfully replicate in the cell and produce more viruses. For that reason, this enzyme makes a very attractive target for the development of antiviral drugs because it is 1) vital for the virus during replication and 2) an enzyme that is not present in a health host cell. Therefore, drugs that directly attack this enzyme will kill the virus with minimal effects on host cells. Both the influenza virus and SARS-CoV 2 are RNA viruses and thus use a similar RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to accomplish the task of replicating the viral genetic material. That said, the influenza virus and SARSCoV 2 are very different RNA viruses, and it is very important to note this fact. Aside from favipiravir, there’s a drug called remdesivir that also targets coronavirus RNA-dependent RNA polymerases. Remdesivir is also being evaluated as an anti-SARS-CoV 2 therapeutic agent. It’s currently under trials, and both antivirals are still far too early in testing to definitively say they will reverse the increasing number of SARS-CoV 2 cases in the world. It’s also important to remember that due to the nature of the SARS-CoV 2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase making mistakes during replication, it is in-

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evitable that drug resistant populations of viruses will emerge. The presence of the antiviral may “select” for drug resistant populations that eventually will no longer respond to treatment. Therefore, continuing research to identify novel SARS-CoV 2 inhibitors will remain a top priority for some time. For chloroquine, it has been reported that this drug blocks the original SARS-CoV as well as several other human coronaviruses from infecting cells. Essentially, it acts as a doorman and denies the virus entry to the area of the cell that the virus needs to complete its replication cycle. There have been some encouraging reports about chloroquine’s use as a therapeutic to treat SARSCoV 2 infections, but again, it’s too early to definitely say that its use will be effective in controlling the current pandemic. There have also been reports of chloroquine toxicity in patients, so it is very clear that even if effective, chloroquine will not be a “one drug treats all” for every case of Covid-19. D. Brian Nichols, Ph.D. is an assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Seton Hall University. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology from Southern Illinois University. He went on to receive his Ph.D. in Microbiology at the University of Illinois under the supervision of Professor Joanna Shisler. The focus of his Ph.D. work was virus-host interactions where he identified the function of a novel poxvirus protein that inhibits host immune

responses. From Illinois, he went on to do his postdoctoral research at Loyola University of Chicago Stritch School of Medicine in Professor Susan Baker’s lab. There, Professor Nichols was part of a team that focused on identifying and characterizing inhibitors of the original SARS-CoV. Following his time at Loyola University, Professor Nichols worked as a postdoctoral researcher in Professor Neerja Kaushik-Basu’s lab at the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey where he worked on characterizing Hepatitis C Virus host interactions. He also worked as part of a team to characterize mechanisms through which Hepatitis C Virus remodels host cells into an environment conducive for virus replication. In 2013, Professor Nichols accepted a position at Seton Hall University in the Biological Science Department. At Seton Hall, Professor Nichols continued his research on the human poxvirus Molluscum Contagiosum. Highlights of his research include identifying the function of a novel MCV protein capable of inhibiting several key host immune responses. He is also interested in characterizing SARS-CoV 2 host interactions in the wake of the current pandemic. Professor Nichols teaches several courses for pre-health profession majors and graduate students including Biochemistry of Metabolism, Molecular Biology, Molecular Virology, and Introduction to Microbiology.

Hanover Park Regional High School District Donates 4,000 Medical

t has come to the district’s attention that our local municipalities are in dire need of medical grade gloves to keep their staff members safe as they serve our communities during the outbreak of COVID-19. As character and service are founding principles of our district’s mission, it is critical that we respond to this need. After inventorying our supplies over the weekend, the district has determined it is able to donate a total of 4,000 medical

grade gloves. 1,000 pairs will be given to the men and women of the East Hanover, Florham Park, and Hanover Township police departments who continue to bravely serve our communities. In addition, we will be donating 1,000 pairs of gloves to the Morris County Office of Emergency Management. It is our hope that we can continue to help our communities as we unite in service during these unprecedented times.

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Page 12 • April 7, 2020

Operation Save-A-Life Calls For Nurses, Medical Pros For Jobs At Healthcare Facilities Sounding The Alarm For Help Across The County

orris County is putting out an emergency call for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and medical professionals who are available during this COVID-19 health crisis to sign up for paid openings at healthcare facilities across Morris County that are short of qualified medical personnel and looking to hire people immediately. The County Office of Emergency Management has created Operation Save-a-Life, which will develop a roster of available medical personnel and provide that list to healthcare facilities, or for home health care providers, that are short-staffed due to the virus and in dire need of employment help. “Nursing homes, assisted living, long-term care, and rehabilitation facilities across Morris County are working hard to take care of their patients and residents. But many are desperately in need of qualified people and struggling to fill staff shortages that are making it difficult to maintain a quality level of care for patients in need,’’ said Morris County Emergency Management Director Jeff Paul.. “Now, more than ever, we need to sound the alarm and do our best to support our healthcare facilities who are working hard to keep their patients safe and to help save their lives,’’ he added. To sign up for these critical jobs through Operation Save-a-Life, and help some our most vulnerable people during this pandemic, qualified medical personnel are asked to call the Morris County Office of Emergency Management at (973) 829-8600. If you do not speak directly with a call taker and get the OEM voice mail recording, please

leave your name, contact number and medical certification (i.e. Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, etc.). One of the Office of Emergency Management staff members will return your phone call within 24-48 hours. “We are talking about protecting some of our most vulnerable people, our senior citizens and disabled residents, many are older veterans or former police and firemen who long ago served on the front lines protecting us; now they need our help,’’ said Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon. “Please, we need your help right now,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Director Deborah Smith. “On behalf of all Morris County residents, we ask you to consider filling this great need.’ County OEM officials have spoken to healthcare providers across Morris County to identify this need, and are reaching out to RNs, LPNs, and others in the medical field to see if they can match the need with available personnel. Those who are hired would be paid directly by the individual facility. The New Jersey Firemen’s Home, located in Boonton, is one example of a facility that needs help caring for its 62 patients/firefighters, who are in danger of possibly having to be moved from their safe location due to a lack of staff. “We love our firemen, and we don’t want them to leave our facility, but at the same time, we need to make sure that they are provided with the same level of exceptional care that they are accustomed to here at the New Jersey Firemen’s Home. We welcome healthcare providers, RN’s, LPN’s, to join our team,” said Donna Russo, Director of Nursing for the New Jersey Firemen’s Home.

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COVID-19: Cyber Security Important During Crisis — Watch Out for Scams

ith a dramatic increase in Telework that requires remote accessing of work Information Technology resources and the reliance of residents on the Internet for services, programs and information due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important for county residents to remain vigilant about Cyber Security and phone scams. Malicious persons are leveraging the COVID-19 crisis to steal your money, your personal information, or both, warns Morris County Chief Information Officer John Tugman. The FBI has warned this week that scammers are offering such items such as free COVID-19 testing kits and guaranteed anti-virus air duct cleaning services to residents via telephone and the Internet. The FBI said cyber scamming efforts have doubled in the past couple of weeks. Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon also has cautioned residents to beware of fraud schemes that target

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COVID-19 health concerns. County residents are advised to think before clicking on links that purport to offer medical advice, seek online donations, contribute to crowdfunding campaigns, purchase virus-related products online, or seek your personal information to receive money or other benefits. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails and be partic-

ularly wary of email attachments. Morris County’s John Tugman also advises that when using personnel computing resources to connect to your place of business, ensure your system is current with all software and security updates and is running an Anti-Virus product. Remember to always to Stop and Think before Connecting!

Mansion In May 2020 To Present “Splendor In September” Designer Showhouse And Gardens

he Women’s Association for Morristown Medical Center announced that its 19th Mansion in May signature fundraiser previously scheduled to be held during May 2020 will now be open to the public as its “Splendor in September” Designer Show-house and Gardens at Tyvan Hill in New Vernon, New Jersey from September 8 to October 4, 2020. “We are thrilled that the owner of Tyvan Hill has graciously agreed to extend our stay at Tyvan Hill, which will enable us to present our Mansion in May 2020 “Splen-dor in September” fundraiser and deliver on our pledge to benefit the expansion of the Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute at Morristown Medical Center,” said Patricia O’Connor, CoChair, Mansion in May 2020. Kathy Ross, Co-Chair, Mansion in May 2020 stated, “The number one concern has and continues to be the health and safety of the over 1,500 volunteers and our visi-tors who help make Mansion in May a success. Our delayed opening will enable our visitors to tour this magnificent country

estate and have an opportunity to see the ‘in-spirations’ of over 50 talented interior and landscape designers come to life in one lovely setting.” Tyvan Hill, a 10,000 square foot U-shaped brick and stone house mansion was de-signed by the prominent New York architectural firm of Peabody, Wilson & Brown for John Wesley Castles Jr. and his wife, Dorothea Bradford Smith, and built between 1928 and 1929. It features beautiful details, such as a curved staircase, paneling and elegant moldings, as well as an outdoor pool and pool house. In 1931, the Architec-tural League of New York awarded its silver medal to Peabody, Wilson & Brown for the firm’s designs of a group of country residences, prominently including Tyvan Hill. Mansion in May is the preeminent designer showhouse in the New Jersey-New York area. “Splendor in September” at Tyvan Hill will be open to the public from September 8 to October 4, 2020. Advance tickets at $40 are available online now. For tickets and more information about Mansion in May 2020, visit www.mansioninmay.org.

April 7, 2020 • Page 15

SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to New Jersey Small Businesses Economically Impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

(COVID-19),” said Administrator Carranza. SBA Customer Service Representatives will be available to answer questions about SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program and explain the application process. “Small businesses, private non-profit organizations of any size, small agricultural cooperatives and small aquaculture enterprises that have been financially impacted as a direct result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) since Jan. 31, 2020, may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred,” said Carranza. “These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. Disaster loans can provide vital economic assistance to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing,” Carranza added. Eligibility for Economic Injury Disaster Loans is based on the financial impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The interest rate is 3.75 percent for small businesses. The in-

he U.S. Small Business Administration is offering lowinterest federal disaster loans for working capital to New Jersey small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza announced today. SBA acted under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, to declare a disaster following a request received from Gov. Philip D. Murphy on March 17, 2020. The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in the entire state of New Jersey; and the contiguous counties of New Castle in Delaware; Bronx, New York, Orange, Rockland and Westchester in New York and Bucks, Delaware, Monroe, Northampton, Philadelphia and Pike in Pennsylvania. “SBA is strongly committed to providing the most effective and customer-focused response possible to assist New Jersey small businesses with federal disaster loans. We will be swift in our efforts to help these small businesses recover from the financial impacts of the Coronavirus

terest rate for private non-profit organizations is 2.75 percent. SBA offers loans with long-term repayments in order to keep payments affordable, up to a maximum of 30 years and are available to entities without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship. Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hardofhearing may call 800-877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. The deadline to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan is Dec. 18, 2020. For more information about Coronavirus, please visit: Coronavirus.gov. For more information about available SBA resources and services, please visit: SBA.gov/coronavirus.

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Diary of a Scout Leader: My Days as Troop Quartermaster

By Richard Mabey Jr. n February of 1967, I became the Quartermaster of Boy Scout Troop 170. I was 13 years old and in the eighth grade. Becoming the Troop Quartermaster, was a big step in my life. The Troop Quartermaster is, for the most part, an underrated Warrant Officer of a scout troop. For the Quartermaster is in charge of keeping inventory, maintenance and upkeep of all the scout troop’s equipment, including the tents and cooking equipment. I loved being the Troop Quartermaster. I learned so very much from it. I was a Star Scout at the time and in order for a scout to earn the rank of Life Scout, one of the requirements is that he must serve in a leadership role in his scout troop. So, for me, it was very important for me to do a good job in serving as the Troop Quartermaster, if I wanted to become a Life Scout. When I was 13, I was a very shy boy. I was not very good at sports. And, I had just recovered from a year-long bout with rheumatic fever. So, Troop Quartermaster was a perfect fit for me to have a golden opportunity to grow in leadership skills. One of the innovations that I set up for

Boy Scout Troop 170, was a system to better coordinate the storage of the tents, tent poles and tent stakes. I set up a color code system for the tenting equipment. I remember this all so very well. On the right-hand side of the bottom flooring of each tent, I painted a filled-in colored circle. Say, a yellow circle. Then on every one of the tent poles, for that tent, I painted a yellow line around each tent pole. Then I went on to paint a yellow line around the tent stakes for that tent. Hence, the Badger Patrol would always get the yellow tent on all the troop campouts and big camporees. I am very proud to say that this system that I developed was adopted by other scout troops in Lincoln Park and also in the neighboring towns. It was kind of a mark for me. I had independently developed an intelligent system to solve a long-standing problem of how the troop tenting equipment could be better coordinated. This method of quietly thinking out a solution to a problem, would help me in my schoolwork, especially in my math and science courses. It would also help me in my work life. Just to be quiet and still, to analyze, to think out a solution to a given prob-

lem; by myself, without the help of another person became one of my inner strengths. And, that method of problem solving developed in my role as Troop Quartermaster, when I was 13 years old. I know scouting has gotten a bum rap lately. And, I do not support. nor defend the horrific recent findings about the darker side of scouting. Still, in spite of all these negative reports about scouting, it is still a good medium for a boy to develop leadership skills. I would say that the best thing to do. is for a father to become a scout leader in his son’s scout troop. This way, a father can have a first-hand say in how that scout troop is run. It is a very good investment in time. And, it allows a father to have time to spend with his son in the great outdoors, hiking and camping in a forest setting. Yes, scouting has faults. But, it also has good qualities. And, yes it needs to be revamped. But, truly, it can be an outstanding vehicle for the long trail that a young boy walks along to become a forthright man. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.

At the age of 13, I was a very idealistic, sincere and studious boy. I was eager to find my way, to find a purpose, to grow and develop leadership skills. But, I was not very good at sports and scouting was truly a way for me to learn how to become a leader.

April 7, 2020 • Page 17

Giving Homes A Face Lift:

Magnolia Home Remodeling Group Does it All

By Dawn M Chiossi home is much more than a house. It is much more than four walls, a foundation, and rooms. Much more than just a place to eat and flop down for the night, homes are often an extension of the people who live in them. At their best, homes can be a place for family dinners, a place to binge-watch favorite shows, a hub for sociability, or just a comforting oasis away from the world. Homes are an investment, literally and figuratively. It is often said that people do not own their homes--their homes own them. Even though the saying is often uttered off the cuff, there is a nugget of truth in it. The best homes give off good vibes. Everyone strives to make their home be a place of comfort, a place that is both restful and pretty. They aim to make their home a place where they can enjoy their solitude as well as the company of others. It is a fact that, invariably with time, homes will deteriorate. As every homeowner knows, there will be wear and tear on them; they will need improvements, renovations, and refurbishments. In time, people may decide to do a home makeover, or even make improvements to sell it. In all of these instances, their homes will need a kind of face lift. When this happens, people need to put their house and home into the hands of trusted professionals to rejuvenate it for whatever purpose they need. Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is just such a business. Founded in 1995, Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is a New Jersey Home Remodeling & Home Improvement Contractor. Located at 1640 Vauxhall Rd in Union Township, these hard workers seek to help their customers make their home its best. Whether customers would like their homes to go the nip and tuck route, or seek to have a showstopper of a home, Magnolia Homes strives to make them as pretty as a magnolia and several times as strong. Serving areas in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren counties, Magnolia Home can do it all. They specialize in both interior and exterior remodeling in the New Jersey area. With over 25 years of industry experience, they are a licensed New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor. This family owned business was founded by brothers-in-law and partners, Vic Fiore and Chris Fontana. For this close-knit staff, family pride and reputation is everything. At Magnolia Home Remodeling Group, they take pride in their work as well as their business. Fully insured and licensed, Magnolia Home Remodeling is a full-service business. They specialize in installing vinyl siding, roofing, and windows, as well as kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling. They also offer porch remodeling, decks, masonry, patios, additions, levels and more. Additionally, they offer a variety of affordable product choices to fit any budget. They facilitate affordable, no-hassle financing to help their customers. They also offer custom options to cap off the look of the home to make it unique to homeowners. Offering the best in customer service, Magnolia Home seeks to make their customers feel comfortable and sat-

isfied with their progress throughout the home projects. They stress communication, workmanship, professionalism and so much more. According to Fiore, “We describe this business as family owned and operated. I chose to work in this industry because I enjoy working with people. Every home project is so different that it makes every day new and exciting,” he says. The same sentiment is echoed by Fontana, “I didn’t want to be stuck behind a desk all day, I wanted to work with people. They have their own personalities and the work is different every day.” It’s all paramount at Magnolia Home. They ask that all homeowners be present at the consultation so everyone is on the same page, and will have confidence in Magnolia and the job they are doing with their home. “We give the personal touch to each job,” Fontana says, “We sit down with everyone so that nothing gets lost in translation. We are always available for our customers.” Knowing that a home improvement job can be scary for their clients, Fontana explains that they strive to make their customer’s experience a positive one. “That includes taking pride in the level of workmanship and transparency, having a real relationship with the customers and making sure that the customers have trust in the project,” he tells. “The customers in turn, appreciate what we do.” For the owners of this family contracting business, having respect, professionalism, and consistency is key. Not only for their customers, but to build a stellar reputation as well. For them, it is all in the details. Even something as simple as cleaning up when the job is finished creates a positive and lasting impression on homeowners. With consistent five-star ratings, Magnolia Home Remodeling Group has even been named a Super Service Award Winner for several years running from Angie’s List. They have many repeat customers as well. The reason for that lies in their customer service and desire to make homeowners happy. When a question needs answering, or someone has a concern, it is guaranteed that they will speak to an owner. “I’d use them again,” is something people say over and over again. Magnolia Home Remodeling Group fervently believes in giving back to the community as well. The company was even featured on TV’s George to the Rescue on April 27th, when they lent more than a hand to Union County’s Munt Family. The family suffered a terrible tragedy on Thanksgiving in 2017 when husband and father, 46-year-old Alex Munt passed away suddenly from a heart attack. The community quickly rallied around the family doing all they could to help, and that included George to the Rescue and Magnolia Home Remodeling Group. They jumped right in to help the family with their home improvements by giving the house a total makeover. Magnolia Home not only donated construction supplies and labor for the project, they were the lead contractor as well. “We are proud to be able to do this,” Fontana enthuses. “To take the worry and the risk out of a job for our clients. It is an honor.”

Fontana mentions they have also worked on projects for the Make A Wish Foundation and in South Jersey helping a disabled child. They also work on a regular basis with police, firemen, and first responders to use their talents and skills to make their lives a little better. That’s what it’s all about for the owners of Magnolia Home. Perhaps nothing demonstrates this more than a memory Fontana shares. “There was a widow whose husband had just recently passed. Her house needed work, and her money was understandably tight. She had been suspicious and hesitant to work with us at first because she’d had a bad experience with another contractor.” Undaunted, Magnolia Home Remodeling set out to help. “We worked with her,” Fontana explains. “Starting out, she had been very affected by her previous experience. We understood that, took everything into consideration, and went above and beyond to change it for her.” Check them out on Yelp, Angie’s List, Better Business Bureau, or their list of references. Taking pride in their family and business reputation, Magnolia Home Remodeling Group puts their heart in customer’s homes. Giving homes the face lift they deserve; they make homes as beautiful as their name implies. For further information, details, or a free estimate, call 855-624-6655 or visit www.magnoliahomeremodeling. com.

Page 18 • April 7, 2020

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New Jersey American Water Warns Against Flushing Sanitizing and “Flushable” Wipes

ith hand hygiene at the top of everyone’s minds and toilet paper in high demand, many households are increasing their use of sanitizing wipes and “flushable” wipes. However, New Jersey American Water is telling customers not to flush these wipes down the toilet. Flushing wipes, paper towels, or other paper products not intended for use in wastewater systems, down the toilet can lead to sewer backups and in-home plumbing issues which may be expensive to repair. Even wipes labeled as “flushable” or “biodegradable” can cause backups for sewer utilities and headaches for homeowners. “Many sewer blockages occur between your house and our sewer main in the street, where the property owner is re-

sponsible for correcting and paying for the repair,” said Manoj Patel, senior manager of Production for New Jersey American Water’s Statewide Sewer. “During this already stressful time, we want to help our customers avoid blockages that could create costly plumbing emergencies.” Patel added that improper disposal can also cause problems in the local sewer collection system and treatment plants. “Your dedicated local wastewater system employees continue to come to work every day and make sure your community’s sewage is being properly treated,” he continued. “We provide an essential service, so please help us out by putting wipes, paper towels and other products in the trash where they belong, not in your sewer system where they can damage our equipment and cause

blockages. Wet wipes combined with fat, grease and other solids deposited in the sewer main creates a huge clog, a condition known as a fatberg. Fatbergs are very difficult to remove and cause damage to the pipes requiring costly repairs.” In addition to wipes, New Jersey American Water also warns against pouring grease, fat or oil down the drain. When washed down the drain, grease and oil can adhere to the insides of the pipes that carry the wastewater from homes and businesses to the sewer treatment facility. Over time, this buildup of grease can restrict the flow of wastewater, leading to blockages that can cause sewage overflows or backups in homes and businesses. It can also have an adverse effect on the environment if the overflow enters local rivers, lakes and

April 7, 2020 • Page 19

streams. Tips for homeowners include: Allow grease to cool and use a rubber scraper to remove the fat, oil and grease from cookware, plates, utensils and cooking surfaces. Then place the grease in a sealed container and dispose of it in the trash. Install baskets/strainers in sink drains to catch food scraps and empty them into the trash. Keep in mind, garbage disposals do not prevent grease from washing down the drain. Also, detergents that claim to dissolve grease may pass it down the line and cause problems in other parts of the wastewater system. More information and tips can be found on the New Jersey American Water website.

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Page 20 • April 7, 2020

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MOTION 2020 Kia Sportage LX AWD

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per month for 36 mos.

$4089 due at signing

Closed-end 36 month lease based on new 2020 Chevy Trax LS (Model #1JR76) subject to credit approval, dealer participation, and vehicle availability. Offer shown based on $4089 due at lease signing, $3295 capitalized cost reduction, plus tax, title, $695 Acquisition fee, license and registration fees, $399 first month payment, dealer conveyance fee, processing fee or optional service fee and any emission testing charge. No security deposit required. Total lease payments are $3564. Offer shown includes a $1,000 consumer cash rebate and a $1,500 GM Lease Loyalty rebate (eligible customers who have a 2015 model year or newer Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet or GMC lease through GM Financial qualify for this offer). Actual payments may vary. Purchase option at lease-end for offer shown of residual value of $13,845.30 plus $300 purchase option fee. Lessee is responsible for insurance, maintenance, repairs, $.25 per mile over 10,000 miles/year, excess wear, and a $395 termination fee*. Lease offer applies to Trax LS (MSRP $24,290, includes freight, and excludes taxes, title, license, additional options and retailer charges). Actual prices set by dealer. Must take delivery from retail stock by 3/31/20. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect actual lease payment. See dealer for warranty and lease details or go to chevy.com

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per month for 36 mos.

$3992 due at signing

Closed-end 36 Month lease based on new 2020 Sportage LX AWD (Model #42422) subject to credit approval, dealer participation, and vehicle availability. Offer shown based on $3992 due at lease signing, $3193 capitalized cost reduction, plus tax, title, license and registration fees, $149 first month payment, $650 Acquisition fee, dealer conveyance fee, processing fee or optional service fee and any emission testing charge. No security deposit required. Offer shown total lease payments are $5,364. Actual payments may vary. Purchase option at lease-end for offer shown of residual value of $16,535.40 plus $300 purchase option fee. Lessee is responsible for insurance, maintenance, repairs, $.20 per mile over 10,000 miles/year, excess wear, and a $400 termination fee*. Lease offer applies to Sportage LX AWD (MSRP $26,670.00, includes freight, and excludes taxes, title, license, additional options and retailer charges) 3 or more to choose from at this price. Must take delivery from retail stock by 03/31/2020. See dealer for details.

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Excludes diesel engines, Corvettes and eight cylinder Camaros. No more than six quarts of oil and tax not included. See dealer for eligible vehicles and details . Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 4/30/2020

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April 7, 2020 • Page 21

I Remember Dad: Sunday Afternoons

By Richard Mabey Jr. ne of my dearest and fondest memories of growing up in the old Mabey Homestead, was the interest that my beloved father took in me, in regard to my schoolwork and school studies. Most specifically, studying at the old dining room table on Sunday afternoons. I remember when I was growing up, how Sundays were such special days. Mom, Dad, my sister Patti and I would all go to church together. Then, after church, we would eat lunch together at the kitchen table. Most of the time we had grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. That was the specialty for Sunday lunches. And, we would always drink milk with our meals. Soda, iced tea, lemonade and fruit punches were special treats. When Dad finished lunch, sitting at the kitchen table, most of the time he would then say, “okay lunch is over, study time.” My father had this incredible respect for education. Dad dropped out of high school, to sign up for the Army Air Corps during World War II. He later worked hard to earn his GED and then took courses at Drew University, in order to become a Lay Leader in the Methodist Church. The dining room of the old Mabey Homestead was a magical place. It was where Dad, my sister and I would study on Sunday afternoons. Dad would recopy his logbooks, for his job as a long-distance truck driver, plus he would do paperwork for Boy Scout Troop 170, in his role as Scoutmaster. Dad would sit at the head of the dining room table and my sister Patti and I would do our homework. In the background, ever so quietly, Dad would play the old stand up radio in the dining room, set to easy listening,

WPAT. The atmosphere of the dining room of the old Mabey Homestead created a homespun atmosphere that provided a warm, heart-spun feeling that seemed to be made to order for stilling the mind, to focus on studying and doing homework. Flowers hung from the light that was fixed upon the center of the ceiling. There was the old wallpaper, the array of fruit in the center of the table, the easy listening music on the radio and the occasional sound of a train that could be heard traveling along the railroad tracks in the midst of the backwoods. I was an honor roll student, all through school. A big part of why I did so well in school, was the interest that my dear old Dad took in my schoolwork. On Sunday afternoons, Dad, Patti and I would study till supper time. Then we would eat supper and then watch Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color, and then watch Bonanza. I graduated from Boonton High School in June of 1971, so there were no home computers then. I learned how to use a slide rule. There were not even calculators back then! It was a different time, a simpler time, a wonderful time. I don’t know if I would have been such a sincere, earnest, hard working student; if it were not for the interest that my mom and dad took in my schoolwork. I seriously doubt it. I never thanked my mom or dad for inspiring me to do my best in school. They’re both in Heaven now. I deeply regret that I never thanked them. It’s just the way life is sometimes. There is something that a parent can give a child to help them with their studies that overshadows the latest su-

per-powered computer. It is greater than hiring a private tutor. It is more effective than all of the study guide books that can fill a bookcase. It is a parent’s gift of time and heart-felt interest in a child’s schoolwork and studies. No, you don’t have to be an expert in new math, no you don’t have to know the names of all of the kings and queens of medieval European history, and you don’t even have to know complicated chemical formulas. All it really takes to inspire a child to do his or her very best in school, is simply a loving and caring heart. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com.

This photograph was taken in September of 1967. It shows Dad and I studying at the dining room table. I had just begun my freshman year at Boonton High School. It is one of my favorite pictures of the dining room of the old Mabey Homestead.

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April 7, 2020 • Page 23

NJStarz Issac Bayoh

Hometown: Roxbury, NJ

by Elsie Walker

y life is a message to the world, telling others to be bold enough to use their voice, brave enough to listen to their hearts, and strong enough to live the life they have always imagined,” said Issac Bayoh, a graduate of Roxbury High School. Bayoh is only 22 years old, but during that time he’s experienced a great deal: losing family in Sierra Leone to Ebola, coming alone to America with only $35 in his pocket, knowing frustration and despair, and gaining empowerment as a delegate to the Junior UN assembly and founder of his own fledgling foundation: Girl Optimization. Bayoh said he’s seen that when you come to the end of your rope, God will provide a knot so you can pull yourself up. Recently. Bayoh, who now lives in New York City, shared his story. Bayoh was born in Freetown, Sierra Leone in West Africa. His father left the family when Bayoh was seven months old. This created a difficult situation for his mother due to how his country’s culture sees women, especially women without husbands. A father teaches his son to be hard and tough. Women are not valued in that country, but are treated like chattel. Girls as young as 12 are given to older men in marriage. Sierra Leone is a society where men can do whatever they want with women. Bayoh was a mild-mannered, tender-hearted child. He was bullied by the local men for not having the demeanor they believed a man should have. “The culture is so full of hate,” Bayoh said. Things got very difficult, and his mother, fearing for his safety, sent Bayoh to live with his aunt. Bayoh still helped support his mother, who was taken seriously ill with typhoid and malaria. He sold his clothes to get money for medicine. Once a fine student, he stopped going to school so he could try to earn money; he even begged for money. Ebola (a rare and deadly disease) hit the country and close to his heart; eventually, Bayoh lost most of his family to it. He remembers going to make tea for his ailing aunt one day and when returned to give it to her, seeing her lying there; she’d gone cold. Bayoh’s legs went weak. He was sweating. However, he knew he had to get out of there, leave before the Ebola team came and took him away. He had walked about three miles when he got on a bus. “With every step came a decision to take another. From an entire childhood of bullying and teen-

“

age years of misplaced trust, I learned to put up a strong facade to hide my weakness within. It took painting a mental picture of someone I would never want to be, that unleashed my determination, to make the ultimate decision that I was going to make the rest of my life the best of my life,” said Bayoh. Scared for his life, he dug up some money he’d saved and applied for a visa. He arrived in the United States on July 17, 2014 with a suitcase, a duffle bag, and $35. He had no idea where he would go from there. “I left everything behind, a mother I love, a sister I cherish, friends I care for, and a life unwanted as I fled to America. I was not going to limit myself to the tried-and-true. I was creating a new vision for my life; the way I wanted to see it and finding ways to achieve it. Coming to America is hard, especially for a Sierra Leonean immigrant like me.” he said. Seeing this young person, an New Jersey Transit – MTA worker named Ana befriended him, heard his story, and said he could stay with her. She had visited Sierra Leone and knew of the conditions there. Ana lived in the Port Morris section of Landing, Roxbury Township. Bayoh attended Roxbury High School. He sang in its choir; he excelled in his studies. His essay “Tears of My People” was published in the school publication and he got a temporary job working in the deli area of a supermarket. Bayoh earned scholarships to some prestigious schools, including Cornell University and Eastern University. He attended the latter for one semester, but the scholarship didn’t provide enough money, and because of his immigration status, he could not get student financial aid. The school suggested he go back to Sierra Leone and work things out with immigration. However, he explained to them, “I can’t go back. If I go outside the United States, I can’t come back”. Thus, after only one semester in college, Bayoh had to drop out. He stayed on, working in Pennsylvania and living with a friend for a year. He returned to Roxbury, when Ana became sick and needed his help. There, he felt isolated. His peers were continuing their education. He was in a small town with no car. He was depressed. A friend in New York invited him to visit, so Bayoh walked to the train

Page 24 • April 7, 2020

station and went into New York. His friend wanted to introduce Bayoh to the Landmark Forum, so they attended a free introduction session on it. The Landmark Forum is a series of transformative training courses. Bayoh found what the Landmark Forum offered in the way of education to be something he wanted, but he just didn’t have the money. Sometime later, a representative of the forum called, following up on the introduction session to see if Bayoh wanted to register for a course; the representative even mentioned a payment plan. Bayoh could not afford any of it. However, he felt something inside of him saying “be vulnerable and tell your story”. The representative listened and then told Bayoh he’d call back in 30 minutes. When he called back, he gave Bayoh the number of a friend to call, someone Bayoh was being invited to meet: James Jay Dudley Luce. Luce is a millionaire. He runs the James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation and is also the founder of Orphans International Worldwide. Bayoh nervously went to Luce’s office. Luce said, “I heard your story and want you to get what you deserve.” After talking with him further, Luce introduced Bayoh to an intern who showed Bayoh how to sort receipts. Later, after all the interns had left, Bayoh continued to work on the project. This impressed Luce. He asked Bayoh, “how would you like to be an intern and be a young global leader?” (a program Luce had). Bayoh took him up on that, asking another friend in New York City if he could stay there, sleeping on the floor, until he could save up enough for an air mattress. Luce even paid for Bayoh to attend the programs in the Landmark Forum. After completing the forum program, Luce asked Bayoh about his passion. and where he would like to work. Bayoh told him that he wanted to help Sierra Leone and one place he would like to work was at the United Nations. Luce just nodded, but later gave Bayoh the number of a lady at the United Nations. That lady turned out to be “Queen Mother” Dr. Delois Blakely. “She is an institution at the UN,” said Bayoh. Blakely has been at the UN for 51 year and is Ambassador of Goodwill for many African countries. Bayoh recalled the day he met Blakely and she took him inside the UN.

Almost surreally, Bayoh found himself among presidents and ambassadors. Suddenly, Blakeley said to Bayoh that she wanted him to get ready to give a little speech. Bayoh couldn’t believe what she said. He wasn’t prepared, plus look where he was. He was very nervous as he heard Blakely tell those assembled that she had a young man from Sierra Leone who had something to share. Bayoh spoke from his heart and the words about what he’d seen and experienced came to him. To Bayoh’s amazement, when he was done, those assembled applauded. Later, people were asking if he was a country representative or diplomat. Someone asked if Bayoh could be registered as an official Junior UN representative. Later, Bayoh proudly received a UN badge. Sierra Leone doesn’t have an official youth delegate, so Bayoh represents himself as a Sierra Leonean youth delegate to the youth assembly. Among his accomplishments there are that he has held an executive position on the United Nations Department of Global Communications, Non Governmental Organization division youth committee and has served on the Economic & Social Council Youth Forum. His UN position is not a paid position, so Bayoh supports himself as a nanny. He enjoys making a difference in young children’s lives. He is also striving to make a difference for Sierra Leone. Bayoh has started a foundation on GoFundMe, Girl Optimization (www.gofundme.com/girl-optimization) , which he also contributes to with part of his wages as a nanny. The foundation helps girls in Sierra Leone. “I started a foundation which travels to different schools and villages, providing education to girls by awarding them scholarships, providing them academic materials needed to stay in school and all while having an effective learning experience. Discrimination has no place in the 21st century, and I believe every girl has the right to go to school, stay safe from violence, access health services, and fully participate in her community,” said Bayoh. When asked what he’d like to do with his life, Bayoh said he’d like to become a leader in Sierra Leone, or Secretary-General of the UN.

“Aimless no more, my purpose has been made clear to me; to use the experiences I’ve had as a catalyst for positive change on a global level. I am now a Young Global Leader to the United Nations and stand strong for female empowerment. I raise up my voice—not so I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard; for we cannot succeed when half of us are held back. Gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world. My prayer is that God uses my life as an instrument for good,” said Bayoh.