Passaic Valley Sept 2025

SEPTEMBER

Cool Refreshment Enjoyed at Fifth Annual Water Fun Fest in Little Falls

The event was created in order to provide a safer and cleaner venue that the turf field offers than that of the original grass field, which would have resulted in muddy and slippery conditions due to excess water.

Councilman Chris Vancheri and Assistant Recreation Director Franco Iacovo were on hand to welcome attendees to the event.

The turf field is considered a perfect venue by many Little Falls residents to bring families and friends together, especially during the recent heat wave.

By Tina Pappas

Local residents enjoyed getting cooled down while having a blast at the annual Water Fun Fest on July 26 in the Township.

The event is held at the Sports and Recreation Complex turf field in July every summer and is now in its fifth year of offering lots of wet fun.

Attendees enjoyed water slides and water pistol fun on a hot, sunny day in July.

TLocal resident Evans Castillo, who brought his two daughters and their grandmother to the event, said they love coming out year after year.

"We love it and look forward to it every summer" he said. "This kids have fun and even us adults! It's a great event and a wonderful way to cool down in the heat. My brother is also here with his family. This town always does wonderful things for the residents."

100 Years Ago This Month: Historical events from September 1925

he month of September has been home to many historical events over the years. Here’s a look at some that helped to shape the world in September 1925.

• Global commerce continues to be disrupted when Danish seamen go on strike over their wages on September 1. The Danish seamen’s decision to go on strike follows similar moves by seamen in China and throughout the British Empire.

• Hermann Göring is hospitalized in the psychiatric ward of a Swedish hospital after assaulting a nurse on September 1. Göring, who was in Sweden to overcome a morphine addiction, would later serve as chief advisor to Adolf Hitler and commander of the Luftwaffe during World War II.

• The Second International Conference on the Standardization of Medicine is held in Geneva, Switzerland, on September 3. The conference aims to standardize drug formulas across the globe.

• Comintern leader Grigory Zinoviev, Deputy Premier Finance Commissar Grigory Sokolnikov and Lev Kamenev are among those to sign a joint protest against Soviet Communist Party Secretary Joseph Stalin on September 5. All three men would eventually be executed during Stalin’s Great Purge.

• Striking sailors are barricaded aboard the SS Sophocles before it pulls out of Cape Town, South Africa en route to Australia on September 5. The ship is ultimately forced to

return to Cape Town when the sailors refuse to work.

• British police fire on a crowd of 2,000 demonstrators in Shanghai on September 7. The crowd was protesting unequal treaties.

• A deal between the Italian government and explorer Roald Amundsen is announced on September 8. The deal entails Amundsen using the dirigible N-1 in an attempt to fly to the North Pole in 1926.

• A white mob estimated at 5,000 people gathers in Detroit in an effort to intimidate Dr. Ossian Sweet on September 9. Dr. Sweet, who was Black, had purchased a home in an all-white neighborhood, and the mob aimed to force him to vacate the property.

• Xavier University of Louisiana opens on September 13. It is the world’s first Catholic University for African Americans.

• Riley B. King is born near Berclair, Mississippi on September 16. The boy grows up to become a legendary blues musician known the world over as B.B. King.

• Eighteen-year-old Frida Kahlo is nearly killed in an auto accident in Mexico City on September 17. Though Kahlo sustains multiple injuries in the accident, including a fractured spinal column, it’s during her bedridden two-year recovery period that she first begins to paint.

• The third-longest rail tunnel in the United States opens on September 19. The tunnel is two miles long and passes

through Mount Judah in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

• The United States submarine USS S-51 sinks off the coast of Rhode Island on September 25. The submarine had collided with a merchant steamer, and 33 of the 36 crew members aboard perished in the collision.

• Greek Prime Minister Theodoros Pangalos creates the country’s first spy agency on September 25. The agency, Ypiresía Ethnikís Asfaleías (YES), is conceived to fight the Communist Party of Greece.

• The Yellow River overflows in Shandong Province in China on September 27. Hundreds of people die in the region’s worst flooding since 1887.

• Jewelry valued at three quarters of a million dollars is stolen from Woolworth heiress Jessie Woolworth Donahue while she is a guest at the Plaza Hotel on September 30. The jewelry was stolen while Mrs. Donahue was in a bathtub a few feet away.

Photos provided by The Township of Little Falls Councilman Chris Vancheri and Assistant Recreation Director Franco Iacovo are pictured at the fifth annual Water Fun Fest in Little Falls on July 26.

Attendees enjoy a water slide during the fifth annual Water Fun Fest in Little Falls.

Another water slide is enjoyed by attendees at the fifth annual Water Fun Fest in Little Falls.

By Tina Pappas

NNational Night Out Makes Triumphant Return in Little Falls

ational Night Out made its triumphant return to the Township after a two-year hiatus. The annual event, held on Aug. 5, was canceled last year due to inclement whether. It offers an opportunity for local residents to spend an evening getting to know those in their local public service departments.

The event is free and is a community-driven campaign hosted in early August, with the aim to promote police and community partnerships. Members of the Little Falls Police Department (LFPD), Little Falls Fire Department (LFFD), Little Falls EMS and Little Falls DPW were on hand to meet and greet local residents at the Little Falls Municipal Building parking lot. The Little Falls Municipal Alliance coordinates the event and works collaboratively with the LFPD, along with assistance from the DPW.

Local residents were treated to food, refreshments and entertainment. There were fun activities for kids, including a dunk tank. Entertainment included live DJ music and a big bounce house donated by the Little Falls Recreation Department. Tents throughout the parking lot featured the Little Falls Office of Emergency Management's CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), the New Jersey Community Development Corporation, Total Recovery Physical Therapy, Traditional Okinawan Karate and the Clifton Health Department and Clifton Animal Control.

Mayor James Damiano, Council President Anthony Sgobba, Councilman Chris Vancheri, Councilwoman Christine Hablitz, Councilman Michael Murphy, Police Chief Bryan Prall, Fire Chief Ken Cichy and Corporal Jon Vanak, along

Photos courtesy of The Township of Little Falls National Night Out made its successful return to Little Falls on Aug. 5. Pictured is Mayor James Damiano, Council President Anthony Sgobba, Councilman Chris Vancheri, Councilwoman Christine Hablitz, Councilman Michael Murphy, including other Passaic Valley area officials.

with officers of the Little Falls Police Department (LFPD), also took part in the event, along with other local officials from the Passaic Valley region.

A special salute was held for Vanak who is retiring in September and has run the event since it first began.

"We had a good turnout and the weather held out, compared to last year when we had to cancel due to rain," Vanak said. "The community showed up, along with a lot of businesses. CERT is here, as well as the fire and police departments. The DPW helped put this together and made the event great again this year."

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Prall praised Vanak for his efforts at the LFPD.

"It's definitely bittersweet for us here at the Little Falls Police Department because we know it's Jon's last event before retiring," he said. "We'll have Officer Oliver Isshak who's going to be the new policing officer filling Jon's shoes. He's going to be carrying the torch that Jon has so aptly carried for all these years. It's great to open our home for the community and have everyone come out to spend some time together and get to see us in a nonenforcement way, which is super important in 2025."

Isshak also commented, saying he looks forward to working with the community.

"I think this is our eighth National Night Out. It's a great event and we had terrific weather this year," he said. "I

Pictured (from left) is Officer Oliver Isshak, Cpl. Jon Vanak and Police Chief Bryan Prall during National Night Out in Little Falls.

National Night Out...

cont. from page 2

think that events like this help bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities we serve."

Prall echoed the sentiment, adding that one of the core values at the LFPD is community.

"We do events like this because it's really who we are," he emphasized. "We serve this community, so we're all a part of community service. It's great for the community to come out and share this night with us."

Local resident Jessica Myers's charity Liam's Warriors was also featured. The nonprofit organization was created in her nephew Liam's memory, who died from pediatric cancer in 2023. Also assisting with a coloring table and complimentary empanadas were her friends Ivanna Mauriello and Jennifer Crawford.

"We love the town," Myers said, adding that Mauriello and Crawford were more than happy to lend a hand. "My daughter Madison is also here helping out."

Sean McClafferty and Carol Kocotos of Traditional Okinawan Karate, located in Wayne, also commented on the evening.

"This is a fantastic event and I'm so happy to be here," he said. "I'm glad to be reaching out to a larger community and getting more people involved in things like karate, or feeling town pride in general. It's great for local businesses, great for charity, and it's especially great getting to know your local police and seeing them in a non-threatening capacity, like riding on their horses, wearing t-shirts and getting dunked in the tank. Those connections are important."

Kocotos feels the event is a wonderful way to spend a summer evening.

"Everybody is so welcoming," she added. "We've had so

many people coming over noticing we're a new business and thinking it's cool. We're also going to be setting up a new self-defense class for women in the Township to introduce us a little bit more to Little Falls, Totowa and the surrounding towns."

Local resident Zaynab Bokhari brings her family to National Night Out each year.

"It's a great event for the community every year, and my kids love coming here," she said. "And it's important to bring residents and public servants together like this to get to know one one another."

Mayor James Damiano (left) and Police Chief Bryan Prall are pictured during National Night Out in Little Falls in front of the LFPD booth.

Pictured is Jessica Myers (far right) who started Liam's Warriors, along with friends who helped out during National Night Out in Little Falls.

2 Capalbo Ave, Little Falls

Taft Ave, Woodland Park

Garretson

Totowa

Capalbo Ave, Little Falls

Robinson Dr, Woodland Park

Yolanda Dr, Little Falls

Overmount Ave, Woodland Park 29 Vetrone Dr, Woodland Park

Melissa Dr, Totowa

Wallace Ln, Woodland Park

St. James Pl, Totowa

Grandview Dr, Woodland Park

Rose Pl, Woodland Park

67 Bergen Blvd, Wooodland Park

Rose Pl, Woodland Park

Gordon Ave, Totowa

Lower Notch Rd, Little Falls

Overmount Ave, Woodland Park

Children are pictured having fun at the dunk tank during National Night Out in Little Falls. Police are pictured mounted on horses while residents browse exhibit booths during National Night Out in Little Falls.

Sean McClafferty and Carol Kocotos of Traditional Okinawan Karate are pictured during National Night Out.

Fitness Training Gym Expands in Little Falls

By Tina Pappas

Ahealth and fitness training business is expanding in the Township. Gary Fernandez, who just opened The Vault, Final Round Training, located at 215 Newark Pompton Turnpike, is hoping to continue to bring his culture of fitness further into the community.

Born in Paterson, Gary grew up in Woodland Park and now resides in Fairfield

with his wife Colleen and their two children. A 2006 graduate of Passaic Valley High School, he started out as a boxer and pursued it as a career for many years until a shoulder injury caused him to switch paths shortly after. He then worked for public service for four years and decided it wasn't for him. It was then he decided to get into fitness and become a personal trainer in 2010, working in a gym with

many at-home clients.

"I started by going to my clients' homes and training them there," he said. "I eventually turned my mother's basement into my first home gym. Then I had clients I was training at the gym, training at the park, training at their house, and training at Big Box Gym."

Eventually, Gary opened his first official gym in 2015 called Final Round Training. He decided to open it in Little Falls, located at 153 Newark Pompton Turnpike.

"Originally, a lot of my clients were from Verona," he explained. "But then I decided to just come back here to Little Falls because I knew the area well."

According to Gary, everything used to be done out of one gym. Initially, he set out to offer private personal training and fitness at his first gym. His newest location will now offer group

gym training, along with availability of working out on your own.

"We also do massage therapy out of our other Little Falls location at 153 Newark Pompton Turnpike, which was my first location," he said, adding that this September will mark ten years since its opening. "We also opened the Fairfield location in 2023. We decided to move the group fitness training here at 215 Newark Pompton Turnpike, our newest location."

Gary is also grateful to Colleen for all the support she

has given him in making his dream a reality.

"I convinced my wife Colleen to quit her job in teaching and come work with me full-time," he further added. "Now she's my partner and we run the business together."

He said his newest location at 215 Newark Pompton Turnpike offers a lot of functional fitness, with free weights and pin-loaded equipment. There is general functional weight training with kettlebells and a lot of boxing.

"Boxing is our specialty and we do a lot of conditioning,

strength training. etc.," he noted. "A lot of our physical fitness training can be viewed on YouTube. You can search Final Round Training where we have a lot of boxing tutorials, along with fitness tips and self-defense training."

Colleen said she's no stranger to teaching, having previously taught middle school math. The switch to teaching group fitness training classes was an easy one.

"I actually was a teacher and Gary was pushing me to come and work for the gym," she said. "I was already do-

Photos provided by The Township of Little Falls Pictured is Mayor James Damiano and the Township Council during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Vault, Final Round Training, which opened at 215 Newark Pompton Turnpike. Also pictured are owners Gary and Colleen Fernandez, along with their gym manager Henry Lotero.

ing little things here and there but it was an easy transition for me because I taught middle school math. I was all in to build something with him and do something for our family. I joined officially around 2021 by teaching some classes and doing administrative work. Now it's become like a family business."

Originally from Verona, Colleen got certified for fitness training instruction, especially for the group fitness training.

"I love working with the groups," she added. "We started preschool programs, kids programs, including youth training and boxing, so I love doing that too. It's great because I still get to work with the kids I was teaching. We're officially here now and I split my time with both locations. The other one is down the street and that's all personal training. We also offer sports massage out of that location but we have group fitness training here."

Colleen said it's rewarding working with all the clients and that the goal to keep in mind is making it a welcoming

atmosphere for everyone and of all ages.

"If you see our clientele you'll notice we have beginners and those who work out seven days a week," she explained. "It's a great mix, with children as young as 3 to those who are 80, so It's about making this a space where everyone can feel welcome and that's our biggest goal."

Gary added that he would've never thought he'd be opening his third location and attributes the credit to Colleen, saying that she was the reason he was able to make it through the hard times.

"From day one you believed in me," he told her during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. "Ever since Colleen came on, the gym has really taken off. I honestly wouldn't be here today without her."

Gary also thanked his gym manager Henry Lotero, and recalled the time when he first opened up his first gym and needed help. Henry, who hails from Garfield, also grew up in Paterson. He said he got into the field more by chance.

"I initially got in it for self-defense and that's when I came across Gary," he said. "I was looking for a job in the field and told him that I knew how to fight, but not professionally. Gary's the one who taught me how to box and clean it up good. I was just driving through the area to gyms trying to find a job, and that's when I came across his first location at 153 Newark Pompton Turnpike."

Henry was hired on-the-spot by Gary to assist with personal training classes at that location.

"Besides class settings here at the newest location, we have the open gym format where clients can also come in and workout on their own," he explained. "As general manager, I'll do all the clean-ups, classes and personal training, including help with boxing. There's also instruction with

grappling for those interested."

He also said he hopes to be a catalyst for those who want to get fit. He said being positive is important for those you're helping get into shape.

"It's also doing something good for the kids by trying to get them into fitness at an early age, instead of being on the streets and running around," he added.

Gary is amazed that it will be a decade this September since they opened up their first location in Little Falls.

"Ten years later, we're here opening up our third location and Henry has been with us through it all," he said. "When I opened the second location, I was there for six months and after those six months I didn't have to be there anymore because I saw how Henry just took off and ran it. We're here today and he's going to run this one. I can't do it without him."

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for the newest location led by Mayor James Damiano and the Township

END OF SUMMER SAVINGS

cont. from page 11

Council on Aug. 2. Gary also thanked Damiano and council members for their support. Damiano spoke afterwards.

"Final Round Training has been an exceptional partner to our community, consistently showing up for our residents, local athletes, and town programs," he said. "Their commitment goes beyond fitness. It's about community, strength and support. I want to congratulate Gary, Colleen and Henry, and the entire team on the opening of their second location in Little Falls. We are proud to see a hometown business thrive and expand."

Chillin' For A Great Cause

By Tina Pappas

The Woodland Park Police Department (WPPD) recently participated in Operation Chill. The initiative rewards kids in the Borough for doing good deeds and exhibiting positive behavior. Kids who were observed for doing positive activities (such as practicing bicycle safety) received a drink coupon for a free, small Slurpee at any participating 7-Eleven. Woodland Park 7-Eleven stores also participated. Pictured are members of the WPPD with local kids. Also pictured is WPPD Officer Omaira Carino awarding local kids with free 7-Eleven Slurpee coupons.

Photos provided by the Borough of Woodland Park

Woodland Park Remembers Christa Limone, Beloved Public Information Officer

Limone served as TAPinto Passaic Valley editor and later co-publisher, from 2016-2020.

By TAPinto Passaic Valley Staff

The Borough of Woodland Park has announced the passing of Christa Limone, who lived in and served the community for years.

“Christa was so much more than our Public Information Officer—she was a steady and reassuring presence, always working quietly behind the scenes to serve our community with care and dedication,” the borough said in a post on social media.

Woodland Park highlighted Limone’s dedication to her work and her community, noting that she approached her role “with

humility, professionalism, and a deep sense of responsibility."

When TAPinto Passaic Valley launched in 2016, Limone was the first editor of the site. Two years later, she served as co-publisher. She was born and raised in Little Falls, graduating from Passaic Valley High School. Her family has lived in Woodland Park since 2003.

Friends and loved ones described her as calm and kind.

“It was Christa’s warmth, kindness, and friendship that left the deepest impression on all who knew her,” a social media post from Woodland Park's Al-

fred Baumann Public Library said. “Her dedication to her husband and children was undeniable. She lit up whenever she spoke of her family.”

“Christa’s impact extended far beyond her official role," the borough's post continued. “She was a devoted mother, a loyal friend, and someone who could always be counted on to do what was right, even when no one was watching.”

“On behalf of the entire Borough of Woodland Park, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Christa’s family, friends, and loved ones," the borough said. "We are grateful for her

years of service and the quiet strength she brought to our community. May she rest in peace.”

“SKIN-TEMBER” is National Skin Care Month

Dassinger, a licensed esthetician, to speak Tuesday, Dec. 9th at the Little Falls Library

Isabel Dassinger's Zone Skin & Body Care End of Summer Offer

Isabel Dassinger is a decades-long beauty industry career professional and she has an NJ State Esthetician’s license (NJ 3837). She also is the owner of Healing Zone World, a Little Falls based beauty industry equipment and supply company. In accordance with her skin care experience, Isabel Dassinger will also be a guest speaker at the Little Falls Library on Tuesday, December 9th (time to be announced)

ZONE Skin & Body Care – Little Falls will celebrate “Skin-tember” offering a 30-minute Express Facial for $60. 125 Paterson Avenue – Suite #3 – Little Falls - ample onsite parking (diagonally across the street from the Little Falls Youth Center). Book your appointment - https://zoneskinandbodycare.com – or by calling 973-433-7550

September is National Skin Care Month – an after-summer glow to reverse the effects of the hot summer sun –Sculpting, Deep Cleanse, Exfoliation, Hydration! End the summer of 2025 in an amazing way.

• ZONE Skin & Body Care offers holistic facials that go beyond the surface-level beauty

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• Soothe your stress locally

• ZONE Skin & Beauty Care advocates and professes “beauty through better health”

National Night Out in Woodland Park Makes Much Anticipated Return

of the

during National Night Out in

By Tina Pappas

National Night Out was held in the Borough on Aug. 5 and proved to be the most successful one yet.

The event was canceled last year due to heavy rain, but made it's much anticipated return this year. It's hosted each year by the Woodland Park Municipal Alliance Against Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.

The free event was open to the community and offered rides, food, demos, touch-a-truck and a DWI simulator. There were also table giveaways, games, information handouts, face-painting and tattoos.

The evening is geared for the community and those in

local public service departments to come together in a relaxed setting in order to conjure up camaraderie and partnerships.

Local residents were treated to food and refreshments, with the American Legion donating hot dogs and conducting the flag retirement. Pizza City donated pizza, the Woodland Park Police Department (WPPD) donated burgers, and Little Falls Shop Rite donated water. Live music was provided by Fenti Kart, and "5-6-7-8 Dance" studio entertained attendees with an impressive routine. An array of exhibit booths featured local businesses and civic organizations.

The Woodland Park Department of Public Works

(DPW), Hope One, Berkeley College, the Alfred Baumann Public Library, Living Water Church, Big Blue Swim School, Woodland Park Summer Camp, Tri-Town Pharmacy, Woodland Park Comp Cheer and the Woodland Park Board of Health were among those supporting the event. Generous monetary donations were made by Gun For Hire, Palace Laundry, Holy Cross Church and Santangelo Funeral Home. Children were treated to inflatable rides, a petting zoo, and pictures with Spider-Man and Elmo, donated by the Woodland Park Municipal Alliance. Demonstrations consisted of a Passaic County Sheriff's Department (PCSD) motorcycle demo, and the West Paterson Fire Department (WPFD) conducted car extraction, smoke detector, and fire sprinkler demos. New Jersey State Police displayed a heli-

Experience Italy's rich flavors and homestyle traditions. Our seasonally inspired menu features everything from fresh artichoke salads to cozy pumpkin delights and zesty zucchini creations, complemented by heartwarming homemade desserts like creamy cheesecake and fluffy ricotta cake.

Photos provided by the Borough of Woodland Park Mayor Tracy Kallert and the Borough Council, along with members of the Woodland Park Police Department and Passaic County Commissioner Pat Lepore, are pictured during National Night Out in Woodland Park on Aug. 5.

Pictured (from left) is Passaic County Commissioner Pat Lepore, Councilwoman Tina Gatti, Councilman Vincent DeCesare, Mayor Tracy Kallert, Council President Michael Sica and Councilman Luis Torres during National Night Out in Woodland Park.

Members

West Paterson Fire Department are pictured

Woodland Park.

copter flyover. WPPD held a DWI impairment goggles demo and provided important safety information to local residents. Members of the West Paterson First Aid Squad (WPFAS) also participated in the event.

The Woodland Park Department of Public Works (DPW), Hope One, Berkeley College, the Alfred Baumann Public Library, Living Water Church, Big Blue Swim School, Woodland Park Summer Camp, Tri-Town Pharmacy, Woodland Park Comp Cheer and the Woodland Park Board of Health also helped out with the event. Generous monetary donations were given by Gun For Hire, Palace Laundry, Holy Cross Church and Santangelo Funeral Home.

Touch-A-Truck vehicle participation included the DPW sweeper and dump truck, the WPFD engine, army truck and boat, the WPFAS ambulance, Salomone cement truck, the WPPD pick-up truck and patrol car, the Passaic Valley HS school bus, and the Champion Waste Removal dump truck.

Mayor Tracy Kallert, Council President Michael Sica, Councilman Vincent DeCasare, Councilwoman Tina Gatti, Councilwoman Christine Tiseo, Councilman Adam Chaabane, Councilman Luis Torres and Passaic County Commissioner Pat Lepore also participated in the event, along with members of the Woodland Park Democratic Club. They also donated an ice cream truck for attendees to enjoy.

Kallert said the event was the Borough's most successful National Night Out yet.

"We are grateful to everyone who supported and attended this event, especially Michele Bolen and Dina Bargiel from our Municipal Alliance," she said.

According to Kelly Spinalli, Recreation Events Coordinator, the Recreation Department generously donated two bicycles and two helmets as giveaways for the National Night Out event.

"We are proud to be part of this wonderful community tradition each year," she added.

Alicia N. Dorman, OD

Pictured is West Paterson First Aid Squad Capt. Andy Dillon, EMT

Valeria Franco and EMT Joanna Thoma during National Night Out in Woodland Park.

The Recreation Department generously donated two bicycles and two helmets as giveaways for the National Night Out event in Woodland Park.

Live music was provided by Fenti Kart during National Night Out in Woodland Park.

Elmo makes an appearance to greet young fans at National Night Out in Woodland Park.

Black Tom – A Formula for Disaster

By Henry M. Holden

It was 2a.m. on Sunday, July 30, 1916, on the New Jersey waterfront. The dockworkers were choking with high humidity. The temperature was predicted to go to 85 degrees. It was already 77 degrees with a threat of rain later in the morning.

After midnight, a series of small fires were discovered

on the pier. Some guards fled, fearing an explosion. Others attempted to fight the fires and eventually called the Jersey City Fire Department.

Suddenly at 2:08 am there was an explosion. What took place was a colossal earsplitting ground shaking glass, breaking explosion.

The second and larger explosion occurred around 2:40

Pictured are Michele Bolen and Dina Bargiel from the Woodland Park Municipal Alliance who coordinated National Night Out.

A car wreck is pictured as part of the DWI demo held at National Night Out in Woodland Park.

Black Tom... cont. from page 18

am. A notable location for second explosion was around the Johnson Barge No. 17, The explosion created a detonation wave that traveled at 24,000 feet per second with enough force to lift firefighters out of their boots and into the air.

Large chunks of debris from the explosion traveled long distances: some lodged in the Statute of Liberty, and other fragments lodged in the clock tower of The Jersey City Journal Building, in Journal Square, more than one mile away, stopping the clock at 2:12 am. The explosion was the equivalent of an earthquake measuring between 5.0 and 5.5 on the Richter scale and was felt as far away as Philadelphia. Windows were broken as far as 25 miles away, including thousands in Lower Manhattan. Some window panes in Times Square were shattered. The stained glass windows in St Patrick’s Cathedral were destroyed. The outer wall of Jersey City Hall was cracked and the Brooklyn Bridge was shaken. People as far away as Maryland were awakened by what they thought was an earthquake.

Property damage from the attack was estimated at $20,000,000 (equivalent to about $578,000,000 in 2024). On the island, the explosion destroyed more than one hundred railroad cars, thirteen warehouses, and left a 375-by-175-foot crater at the source of the explosion

Black Tom was used to store small arms and artillery ammunition were stored at the depot in freight cars and on barges, including several tons of TNT on Johnson Barge No. 17. All were waiting to be shipped to Russia.

The blast occurred on Black Tom island a misnomer for a mile-long pier on a land fill forming a peninsula that at one-time jutted out from Jersey City into the Hudson River opposite Manhattan.

The New York Times said, “At least one-million people, maybe five million, heard and were shaken by the explosion that shook New Jersey from the shore to the skyscrapers on the rock foundations of Manhattan. It tossed people out of their beds, miles away, while thousands of broken windows posed another threat close to home.”

United States had remained neutral to the war going on in Europe. The government

was aware of spies and did their best to ferret them out and bring them to justice, but in those days, the German spies were smart and few were ever caught.

As smoke began to fill the air, Captain Alfred T. Clifton, of the U.S. Army Signal Corps ordered the alarm sounded, and soon women and children were evacuated to the local parade ground, near the base of the Statue of Liberty.

As the civilians made their way to the designated safety zone, another explosion sounded, one even larger and far more devastating. This explosion came from a warehouse where an arsenal of military weapons, explosives, and other material were stored.

The force of this explosion sent shrapnel from the shells, bullets and debris, along with glass and wood from the building, plummeting down on the island, causing significant damage to the island and its structures. The shockwave from this blast was so intense, the force pushed the torch-bearing arm of the Statue of Liberty against the crown, damaging its internal framework.

When the smoke cleared later that morning, investigators and emergency personnel found all the island's 17 buildings were seriously damaged. Glass and other debris covered the streets. Several people including women and children suffered serious trauma, and tragically, six adults and a 19-weekold baby lost their lives.

This left the U.S. government with a seemingly colossal task at the time—identify who was responsible, and how it could have happened in a relatively small, quiet community.

One of the largest obstacles was the lack of resources and structure to handle this kind of event. There were no organizations in place to investigate what appeared to be a terrorist attack on U.S. civilians.

While World War I was raging in Europe, at the time of the attack the United States was officially neutral in the conflict. As such, there were few national security laws and protocol in place to handle this type of event, and the ones that existed were vague. There was nothing like the international intelligence agencies that operate today who would have normally been equipped to investigate what looked like crime.

The Bureau of Investigation, which later became the FBI, initially led the investigation trying to back-track into the events at Black Tom. But, partially due to its lack of resourc-

es, negligeable experience, and small size at the time (only around 260 members with a few scattered offices). Progress was at a snail’s pace, painfully slow. But people wanted to know who was responsible and punish the culprits.

There was speculation among locals and authorities that the Black Tom explosion had been simply a tragic accident. Just five years earlier, in 1911, a discarded cigarette had caused a similar explosion in Jersey City Harbor when it landed in a container of explosives being unloaded by dockworkers. Due to the mysterious nature of the Black Tom incident, to many observers it seemed to be the likely cause.

This attack was one of many during the German sabotage campaign against the neutral United States, and it contributed to the shift of public opinion against Germany, which eventually resulted in American President Woodrow Wilson’s declaration of war against Germany.

The Russian government sued the Lehigh Valley Railroad Company operating the Black Tom terminal on grounds that lax security (there was no entrance gate; and the territory was unlit) permitted the loss of their ammunition. It was argued that due to the failure to deliver them the manufacturer was obliged by the contract to replace them.

After the war, the Lehigh Valley Railroad, sought damages against Germany by the Treaty of Berlin from the German American Mixed Claims Commission. The Mixed Claims Commission declared in 1939 that Imperial Germany had been responsible and awarded $50 million (the largest claim) in damages, which Nazi Germany refused to pay. The issue was finally settled in 1953 for $95 million (interest included) with the Federal Republic of Germany. The final payment was made in 1979.

The Statue of Liberty's torch was closed to the public after the explosion, due to structural damage. Access was not opened even after the 1984-1986 restoration which included repairs to the arm and installation of a new gold-plated copper torch.

German spies like Kurt Jahnke, worked as an intelligence advisor to Walter Schellenberg, a German functionary during the Nazi era. Schellenberg and his wife were captured

by Soviet agents in April 1945 .

After World War II, Jahnke a naturalize American citizen set up the "Jahnke Büro", an intelligence organization although it was eventually dissolved by April 1945. Jahnke was arrested by the Soviet Union in 1950. Kurt Jahnke was put on trial as a spy, found guilty, and executed the same day.

Lother Witzke was arrested at the Mexican border on February 1, 1918, near Nogales, Arizona. Officials did not prosecute for the bombing but prosecuted him as a spy. A military court at Fort Sam Houston found him guilty of espionage and sentenced him to death by hanging. While in custody, he tried to escape twice, once succeeding, but he was recaptured the same day. On November 2, 1918, Witzke's death sentence was approved by the Department Commander. However, he was not executed because of the November Armistice. In May 1920, President Woodrow Wilson commuted Witzke's sentence to life in prison. In September 1923, Witzke, because of heroic conduct in prison and pressure for his release by the Weimar Republic, was pardoned by President Calvin Cooledge and deported to Germany. Upon his arrival, Witzke was awarded the Iron Cross First and Second Class, by the Reichswehr. Witzke later joined the Abwehr, and after World War II, lived in Hamburg. He was a monarchist who represented the German in the Hamburg Parliament from 1949 to 1952. Witzke died in 1961.

Landfill projects eventually incorporated Black Tom into Liberty State Park. Nothing remains of the munition’s depot with the Black Tom peninsula and all traces of physical damage are gone. A plaque marks the site where an explosion rocked the nation.’

By Henry M. Holden

Christopher Columbus discovered America, but he did not discover New Jersey. That kudo belongs to Giovanni da Verrazzano, who in 1524, was the first European to see the land that one day would become New Jersey

There were probably a few million native human beings living here when Columbus and Verrazzano showed up, so for accuracy we’ll call them explorers who were the first to bring back descriptions of worlds they had found to the Europeans.

Christopher Columbus Did Not Discover New Jersey

Verrazzano was one of the great men of the ages. He was an explorer who, like Copernicus, redefined the shape of the solar system, and Michaelangelo who redefined the image of man. What Verrazzano did was redefine the map of the world.

So, what little we know of Verrazzano comes from fragments gathered long after his death. Some historians disagree on where he was born albeit we know when and the cause of his death.

Verrazzano was born about 1485 to wealthy and cultured parents south of Florence, the capital and main city of the Republic of Florence. Verrazzano was an explorer living in France. He led most of his later expeditions, including the one to America, in the service of King Francis I of France. He is renowned as the first European to explore the Atlantic coast of North America between Florida and New Brunswick in 1524, In contrast to his detailed account of his voyages to North America, little is definitively known about his personal life. After 1506,

he settled in the port of Dieppe, Kingdom of France, where he began his career as a navigator. He embarked for the American coast probably in 1508 in the company of Captain Thomas Aubert, on the ship La Pensée. He explored the region of Newfoundland, possibly during a fishing trip, and possibly the St. Lawrence River in Canada; on other occasions, he made numerous voyages to the eastern Mediterranean.

In September 1522, the Magellan expedition returned to Spain, having successfully navigating the world. Now Verrazzano embarked for the American coast. Competition in trade was becoming urgent, especially with Portugal.

French merchants and financiers urged King Francis I of France to establish new trade routes. In 1523, the king asked Verrazzano to ex-

plore on France's behalf an area between Florida and Newfoundland, intending to find a sea route to the Pacific Ocean. The expedition was funded by a consortium of Florentine merchants and friends based in Lyon and Rouen. Enough money was raised, with Verrazzano himself contributing as both captain and investor.

Within months, four ships set sail due west for the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, but a violent storm and rough seas caused the loss of two ships.

The remaining two damaged ships, La Dauphine and La Normande, were forced to return to Brittany.

Repairs were completed in the final weeks of 1523, and the ships set sail again. This time, the ships headed south toward calmer waters under Spanish and Portuguese control.

After a stop in Madeira, complications forced La Normande back to home port, but Verrazzano's ship La Dauphin departed on January 17, 1524, and headed once more for the North American continent.

It a letter to Francis I, Verrazzano described by historians as the Cèllere Codex, one of three surviving copies of a manuscript letter sent by Verrazzano to King Francis 1 of France. Verrazzano wrote that he was convinced that it was the beginning of the Pacific Ocean from which access could be gained to China.

to the Hudson River. He then sailed along Long Island and entered Narragansett Bay, where he received a delegation of Wampanoag and Narragansett people.

He discovered Cape Cod is one of three surviving copies of a manuscript letter sent by Giovanni da Verrazzano (1481–1528) in 1524 to King Francis I his claim being proven by a map of 1529 that clearly outlined Cape Cod. He named the cape after a general, calling it Pallavicino. He then followed the coast up to modern Maine, southeastern Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland, and he then returned to France by July 8, 1524. Verrazzano named the region Francesca in honor of the French king, but his brother's map labelled it Nova Gallia (New France).

inspired Verrazzano's final voyage, which left Dieppe in early 1528.

There are conflicting accounts of Verrazzano's death. In one version, during his third voyage to North America in 1528, after he had explored Florida, the Bahamas, and the Lesser Antilles, Verrazzano anchored out to sea and rowed ashore, probably on the island of Guadeloupe. He was allegedly killed and eaten by the native Caribs. The fleet of three ships was anchored out of gunshot range, and no one could respond in time.

A 1527 map by Visconte Maggiolo showing the east coast of North America with "Tera Florida" at top right and Labrador at bottom left. The information supposedly came from Giovanni da Verrazzano's voyage in 1524.

Continuing to explore the coast further northwards, Verrazzano and his crew met Native people living on the coast. However, he did not notice the entrances to the Chesapeake Bay or the mouth of the Delaware River.

In New York Bay, he encountered about 30Lenape canoes with friendly inhabitants and observed what he deemed to be a large lake but was really the entrance

Verrazzano arranged a second voyage, with financial support from those who knew him well. The exposition departed from Dieppe with four ships early in 1527. One ship was separated from the others in a gale near the Cape Verde Islands. Still, Verrazzano reached the coast of Brazil with two ships and harvested a cargo of brazilwood before returning to Dieppe in September. The third ship returned later, also with a cargo of brazilwood.

The partial success did not find the desired passage to the Pacific Ocean, but it

The geographic information derived from this voyage significantly influenced sixteenth-century cartographers. Despite his discoveries, Verrazzano's reputation did not spread as well as other explorers of that era. For example, Verrazzano gave the European name Francesca to the new land that he had seen, in accordance with contemporary practices, after the French king in whose name he sailed. That and other names he bestowed on features he discovered have not survived. He had the cont. on page 24

Christopher Columbus... cont. from page 22

misfortune of making significant discoveries shortly after the years (1519 to 1521) that the dramatic Conquest of the Aztec Empire and the first circumnavigation of the world occurred.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a great debate in the United States about the authenticity of the letters that Verrazzano ostensibly wrote to Francis I describing the geography, flora, fauna, and native population of the east coast of North America. Others thought that they were authentic, since the discovery of the Cèllere Codex in 1909. This is the most widely held opinion today particularly after the discovery of a letter signed by Francis I, which referred to Verrazzano's letter.

Verrazzano's reputation was partially obscured in New York City, where the 1609 voyage of Henry Hudson on behalf of the Dutch Republic came to be regarded as the de facto start of European exploration of New York

Estêvão Gomes's trip of 1524 was also forgotten. It was only by a real effort of the Italian American community in 1909, and then in the 1940s and 1950s that Verrazzano's name and reputation were reestablished as the European discoverer of the harbor, culminating in initiative to name the newly built Narrows bridge after him.

Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is a long-span suspension bridge spanning New York Harbor from Brooklyn to Staten Island, built from 1959 to 1964. The bridge was an exceptionally expensive engineering project largely because of the problem of land acquisition. Its total cost was more than $325 million. It is the longest suspension bridge in the United States and the 17th longest in the world.

This author completed two New York City Marathons each having the starting point on the Staten Island side of the bridge. The most alarming part of the race was having thousands of runners pounding the concrete bridge and feeling the bridge sway like waves raising from the concrete.

Love Is The Key To Heaven’s Door, And Forgiveness Is The Force That Unlocks The Bolt

By Richard Mabey Jr.

Now at 71 and fighting an advanced case of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, I have thought more and more about what Heaven is like. Jesus of Nazareth told us that there are many mansions in Heaven. I think that Heaven is a vast place, with many places and nooks and crannies. I want to be reverent and respectful here. My main point is that death is not something to fear, but rather to be looked upon as simply entering another room. As if you are simply walking from your kitchen to your living room. God blessed me with a kind, patient, loving mother, and a strong, hard working, practical father. I grew up in a Christian home and began attending Sunday School at the age of three. In my early childhood, my mother

would read me Bible stories, before I fell asleep at night.

I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that Heaven is a real place. And, our life does not end when the heart stops breathing and the lungs stop taking in air. Death is nothing to be feared. But, it is important to prepare for one’s passing, in both practical ways and in spiritual ways.

Having recently been to a few doctors and gone through even more cardiac tests and procedures, my doctors have told me that my heart has gotten worse in the past year or so. As the chest pains increase, in both degrees of discomfort and frequency, I find myself more and more preparing for my own journey to cross over from this physical world to the Heavenly World. My two basic elements of

preparation, for this journey, lie in reading the Holy Bible more and more and in praying with more focus and concentration.

I believe love is the key to opening the door to Heaven’s Gate. And, as a corollary to this poetic image, forgiveness is the force that unlocks the bolt to Heaven’s Gate.

If you are faced with a terminal illness, please do not panic and allow your heart to be filled with dreaded anxieties. Take time to read the holy scriptures of your faith. Pray, pray and pray for God to bring comfort to your heart and wash away any and all anxieties that may be plaguing your heart and mind.

Please know that this universe was not created by accident, but rather by an Infinite Wisdom that is far be-

cont. on page 25

is the Key... cont. from page 24

yond our human comprehension to fully understand. Please know that God loves you, more than you will ever know.

Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has had two books published. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@ gmail.com.

The Transistor – the Tiny Giant That Changed the World

By Henry. M. Holden

In 1936, Mervin J. Kelly, then director of research at Bell Laboratories (Bell Labs) and later their president told William Shockley a young physicist working in the vacuum tube department that it was his belief that telephone exchanges would work better and faster if they were electronic.

Around this time, engineers at American Telephone and Telegraph (AT&T) realized that vacuum-tube circuits could not keep pace with the growing demand for increased phone call capacity due to their poor reliability and large power requirements. Kelly assigned Shockley to explore semiconductor technology as a replacement for vacuum tubes.

With that information, Shockley began tinkering

with the notion of adapting electronic techniques to switching and began exchanging ideas with Walter Brattain, and John Bardeen all, young Bell physicists whose special interest was copper oxide rectifiers. The problem was that the use of electronics in switching would require an amplifier better than the vacuum tube which required too much power and generated too much heat.

The hunt for a better amplifier started with Shockley, and a Bell Telephone Laboratories program of basic research on solid-state physics in 1936. That research eventually produced a replacement for the vacuum tube in the 1950s and eventually gave us integrated circuits and microprocessors. It spawned a huge semicon-

ductor industry generating hundreds of billions in sales. The fruit of their conversations in December 1939 was what Shockley called “in principle a sound concept of a semi-conductor amplifier” or what was to become known as a transistor.

Shockley and the other physicists continued their experiments for the next two months, but the early results were not encouraging, and their energies were redirected to the World War II efforts. They resumed their experiments after the war.

However, behind this story of invention is one of collaborative genius, serendipitous mishaps, and secret research. We’ll look back on this period that launched the serious study

cont. on page 27

My late parents, Richard Sr. and Janet Mabey, taught me from a very young age that God loves me more than I will ever know. My mother was a kind and gentle woman who read Bible stories to me every night, when I was a little boy. My father was a stong, hard-working man. Dad taught me the prevalence of God’s love in the wooded forest, in our many hikes together upon the Appalachian Trail.

of solid-state devices. We’ll also look at the early history of vacuum tubes and transistor development.

The transistor, revolutionized electronics and paved the way for modern computing, communication, and countless technologies we rely on today.

Lee de Forest was an electrical engineer and the self-described "Father of Radio" and a pioneer in the development of sound-onfilm recording used for motion pictures. He had over 300 patents, but also a tumultuous career; boasting that he made (then lost) four fortunes. He was also involved in several major patent lawsuits and spent a large part of his income on legal bills.

His most famous invention in 1908 was the three-element "audion" (triode) vacuum tube: the first practical amplification device. That would lead to the transistor. These made radio broadcasting and long-distance telephone lines possible. . q Al-

though de Forest had only a limited understanding of how it worked, it became the foundation of electronics, making possible radio broadcasting, local and long-distance telephone calls, and talking motion pictures.

My attention to electronics began at an early age when I received a basic radio kit called a Crystal Radio, from my parents.

A good antenna and ground were needed for reception.

My crystal radio employed a galena crystal with a “cat’s whisker” for detection, a homemade coil with slider for tuning, and headphones. This common circuit did not use a tuning capacitor but used the capacitance of the antenna to form the tuned circuit with the coil.

As a young engineer with New York Telephone, I was present for the last gasp of the mechanical switching techniques used to allow a subscriber to make local and long-distance calls. I

went to work when the mechanical switching techniques of the “Cross Bar 1” office (c 1938) which at the time I joined had more than 20 - years in service.

The switching of subscriber calls in the network involved the operation of hundreds of relays to advance the 24 and 48 volt Direct Current for operating voltages needed in the network. The challenge was to make sure that the relays which collectively amounted to thousands of contact points passed through the network. Any carbon deposits created by the relays halted the call until the carbon deposits were burnished off the relay contacts.

The next step was the introduction of “Cross Bar 5” which introduced IBMtype punch cards. They did little to speed up the call and nothing to ease the heavy maintenance required. That would be the job of the transistor.

The invention of semi-

William, Shockley (seated) John Bardeen (left) and Walter Brattain at the Labs in 1948. The three won the Nobel Prize in physics in 1956 for the invention of the transistor in 1948. (Bell Labs photo)

Transistor... cont. from page 27 conductor devices made it possible to produce solid-state electronic devices, which are smaller, safer, cooler, and more efficient, reliable, durable, and economical than thermionic tubes.’

On December 16, 1947, William Shockley, John Bardeen, and Walter H. Brattain, all Bell Laboratories engineers, in Murray Hill, New Jersey invented the electrical device known as the transistor. For this, they were awarded the 1956 Nobel Prize in physics.

Beginning in the mid1960s, thermionic tubes were being replaced by the transistor. However, the cathode-ray tube (CRT), functionally an electron tube/valve although not usually so named, remained in use for electronic visual displays in television receivers, computer monitors, and oscilloscopes

until the early 21st century,when flat screens became available.

The transistor could manipulate external electrical current through controlling creating and amplifying them.

The transistor is widely considered the greatest invention of the 20th century because the introduction of semiconductors sparked a revolution in electronics on par with that of steel in the Industrial Revolution.

Using improved semiconductor materials developed for radar detectors during the war, Shockley experimented with a field-effect amplifier, similar in concept to those patented by other scientists, but had failed to work.

By the early 1950s advancements in semiconductor devices made it possible to develop solid-state electronics like the transistor ,smaller, cooler, more

efficient, and more reliable than vacuum tubes. Despite this, cathode-ray tubes remained essential for visual displays in televisions and computer monitor into the 21st century.

Advancements in semiconductor devices made it possible to develop solid-state electronics—smaller, cooler, more efficient, and more reliable than vacuum tubes. Never the less, the cathode-ray tubes remained essential for visual displays in televisions and monitors into the 21st century.

On December 16, 1947, their research culminated in a successful semiconductor amplifier. The germanium crystal they had set up in contact with two wires two thousandths of an inch apart began to amplify a signal forty times. The “transistor effect” had been discovered.

On December 23 they

demonstrated their device to Bell Lab officials and in June 1948, Bell Labs publicly announced the revolutionary solid-state device they called a “transistor.”

Life would not be as we know it, without the transistor, which was invented just over seven decades ago. It is considered by researchers and historians leading to groundbreaking advances in computing, communications, medicine, and practically every technically related field. Without it, developments such as the personal computer, cellphones, the GPS system, pacemakers, hearing aids, and the Internet would not exist.

The transistor revolutionized electronics and became the foundation for modern computing, and countless technologies. Its name implies a "transfer of resistance," and its development marked a turn-

ing point in technological history. The impact of the transistor can be traced through the evolution of integrated circuits, the microprocessor, and the massive growth of the semiconductor industry, which today generates hundreds of billions of dollars in sales.

Bill Gates once said his "first stop on any time-travel expedition would be Bell Labs."

Before transistors, most electronic devices such as computers and radios relied on electronic vacuum tubes. They consisted of electrodes in an evacuated bulb through which an electric current could be passed and controlled. This allowed the tubes to function as amplifiers and switches.

Life as we know it would be unimaginable without the transistor. In the more than seven decades

since its invention, it has enabled advances in computing, communications, medicine, and nearly every technical field. Personal computers, cellphones, GPS, pacemakers, hearing aids, and the Internet all owe their existence to this tiny, transformative device.

One of the early vacuum tubes that eventually was deemed obsolete with the invention of the transistor. (Bell Labs photo).

By Henry M. Holden

DWhy is Washington D.C. the Capital and Not Trenton?

id you know that Trenton was at one point the capitol of the United States?

Philadelphia was also under consideration along with New York City. How did the country end up with Washington DC?

After the Revolutionary War, Trenton was the capital of the United States from November and December of 1784. Many of the residents thought the city should be considered as a permanent capital.

The Founding Fathers were debating fundamental rights and the relationship between protections of liberty and the separation of powers. On the agenda was whether the capital of the new United States should remain in New Jersey. Many delegates favored New Jersey with access to the Delaware River just outside Trenton.

The Continental Congress met in Trenton in November and December of 1783. Trenton was a permanent capital, by some of its residence but the southern states favored a location further south.

But for providence, the Garden State would today be the home of the capital. It would have the Trenton Monument, the Vietnam Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and everything we associate with Washington D.C. How did the Nation’s capital end up in Washington D.C.?

There is a saying in real state, that “Its location, location, location.” But it is not always the best location.

Trenton was not an easy city to reach for anyone. Today, a typical trip from Trenton to Washington takes about two hours on the Acella high- speed train. The trip is about three and one-half hours by car on a light traffic day. Imagine the trip in the transportation of the day, horseback or horse and buggy. Things moved very slowly in those days.

Several factors played a role in Philadelphia’s consideration. Philadelphia was geographically centrally located among the original thirteen states. Congress was in Philadelphia. The Declaration of Independence had been signed there, and the Articles of Confederation were drafted there.

Philadelphia was also the center of the “nationalist” faction: Merchants and investors wanted a strong national government that could insure a stable economy. Having just fought a war against a central government most delegates wanted the power to reside instead with the individual states. Philadelphia had roughly 30,000 residents. But in the eighteenth century, Philadelphia would look like a giant megalopolis, and likely the largest city in the English-speaking world.

Trenton was preferred by New England and other northern states as a permanent capital for the U.S., but the southern states prevailed in their choice of a location south of the Mason–Dixon line.

At the time, Newark was not seriously looked on as a candidate since it was referred to as a township, not a city. It wasn’t incorporated as a city until 1836.

In October 1783, many delegates voted to build the national’s capital on the New Jersey site. But the southern delegates refused to concede the issue and threatened to block the two-thirds vote necessary to appropriate the funds to build the new capital combined with the nationalists who wanted to move back to Philadelphia and build two capitals.

To break the stalemate Congress voted a few weeks later to repeal the earlier decision and build two capitals, one on the Potomac River and one on the Delaware River. The government would spend half a year in each.

Proposals came in from states and towns across the country to be host. The town of Kingston, New York, was the first with an offer of a square mile of land. The state of Maryland offered 300 acres in Annapolis, including existing government buildings and the promise of building thirteen official residences for the delegates from the states.

It was further decided that until construction was completed Congress would alternate between Annapolis, Maryland and Trenton, New Jersey.

Two sites had emerged as the favorite. One on the Delaware River near Trenton, and the other on the Potomac River near Georgetown on the Virginia Maryland border

The New Jersey legislature promised to provide #30,000( pounds) to any community in the state that petitioned to become the permanent seat of Congress, and several towns, including, Newark, New Brunswick, and

is Washington... cont. from page 29

Elizabeth applied.

Congress decided that the best alternative would be to build an entirely new city on vacant land where the government could establish its own laws and authority.

As agreed, to Congress left Princeton for Annapolis in November 1783 and onto Trenton in November of the following year.

At the meeting in Trenton, the delegates began to reconsider the wisdom of their decision. There had been a great deal of criticism of the proposal. “To talk of building cities when they can scarcely furnish money for the paper on which to draw the plans,” wrote one observer “appears to mean something different from wisdom, prudence or policy.”

Other criticisms sarcastically suggested that Congress put sails on government buildings so they could float from city to city. Another said Congress should put Congress on a floating wooden statue of George Washington. Others said build a giant pendulum in the sky that would swing from the Potomac River to the Delaware River.

More serious were reports that European powers were beginning to doubt the stability of the American government. A committee was appointed to pick a site “not more than eight miles above or below the falls of the Delaware.”

Until the capital was completed it was agreed to move the Congress and the government to New York City. Although Trenton had been hospitable, the small country town was too crowded to suit the delegates.

Before progress could be made on building a new capital other matters got in the way. The growing dissatisfaction with the Articles of Confederation. The nationals were pressing their campaign for a strong government that lead to the celebrated gathering in Philadelphia that produced the Constitution.

Meanwhile, in Congress, the southern delegates were still anxious for a capital on the Potomac and blocked appropriations for construction of one on the Delaware.

Those who favored limited government thought that the dual capital scheme would prevent the growth of a bloated bureaucracy. They needed to reconsider the two-

part government. That is when Does it was just that delegates changed their minds again they voted to establish a single capital located on the Delaware and authorize $100,000 for construction. The new capital would make a stronger central government. Meanwhile, the southern delegates were still anxious for capital on the Potomac, and blocked administrative appropriations for construction of the Delaware website.

With the strong influence of Alexander Hamilton who was Washington’s Sectary of the Treasury and George Washington the Potomac became the capital of Washington D.C., and the federal government. New Jersey by vote approved overwhelming their new Constitution.

The most influential opponent was America’s hero General George Washington, who said, “Fixing the seat of the empire at any spot on the Delaware is in my humble opinion is demonstrably wrong.” Coincidentally, the general’s home, Mount Vernon, was just a few miles south on the Potomac site.

GREEN EARTH

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WOODLAND PARK

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THREE FAMILY HOME

Opportunity knocks for you to own this Rare highly sought after 3 family! This well maintained fully occupied home boasts a diverse array of units, a prime location, and a perfect chance for investors looking for immediate cash flow or owner-occupant looking to generate passive income. The property comprises three units-1st Floor Front-LR,EIK,2BRs,BATH, 1st Floor Rear-LR,EIK,1BR,and BATH, 2nd Floor-LR,EIK,3BRs, BATH,REC.RM, LAUNDRY AREA, and ATTIC storage. Rents are below current market rates. Full, unfinished basement offers additional storage space. Generously sized backyard invites relaxation, and is a private oasis for entertaining. 2 car detached garage + large tandem driveway which enhances the property’s appeal. Replacement windows. Separate Utilities. Conveniently located near schools, restaurants, shopping, parks, and public transportation.

HALEDON

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Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series

Date of Event: September 19, 2025

Location of Event: Morristown Unitarian Fellowship

Time of Event: 7:30 pm

Price of Event: $20.00 ($15 for members)

The Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series presents the Heather Pierson Duo and Mike Miz. Heather Pierson is a pianist, singer/songwriter, song leader, and performer with a passion for cultivating joy, both onstage and off. Her uplifting live performances with her bassist/ partner Shawn Nadeau delve into New Orleans jazz, blues, and folk. Best known for her ease at the piano and her bell-tone vocals, Heather’s songs and the duo’s musicianship embody honesty, playfulness, and a desire to share from the heart.

Michael Mizwinski, known better as Mike Miz, is a soulful guitarist and songwriter from Northeast Pennsylvania’s Wyoming Valley. Raised in a musical family, he began playing guitar at age 7 and was performing in local venues by 15. His early band, Appalachian Barnhouse Band, and a stint with fusion group Gongzilla helped shape his dynamic style. In 2010, he launched MiZ, blending Americana, jam, and rock. MiZ’s debut, East Hope Avenue, featured legends like Buddy Cage and gained attention from Garth Hudson. Now based in Nashville, Mike has collaborated with artists like Billy Ray Cyrus and performed at the Grand Ole Opry. Admission is $20 per adult at the door, Folk Project members $15. Children 12 and under are free. For more info, see https://folkproject.org/mec-events/2025-09-19/

Date of Event: September 26, 2025

Location of Event: Morristown Unitarian Fellowship

Time of Event: 7:30 pm

Price of Event: $20.00 ($15 for members)

The Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series presents Tara O'Grady & The Black Velvet Band and Teddy Parker.

The Black Velvet Band is fronted by “Bliss Ambassador” Tara O’Grady, a master vocalist who taught for a decade at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and has recorded five albums of original jazz, blues, and folk music. Tara’s warm vocals and poetic storytelling are complemented by extraordinary guitarist Vinny Raniolo, a globe-trotting virtuoso seen on PBS, heard on multiple Scorsese soundtracks. Juilliard-trained reed player Peter Anderson has performed with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Wycliffe Gordon, Wynton Marsalis, and Vince Giordano’s Nighthawks. World-touring bassist Trifon

Dimitrov was mentored by jazz legend Ron Carter and has performed at numerous jazz festivals, clubs, TV, Radio and Broadway shows.

Teddy Parker is a theatrical pop-rock songwriter, performer, and music educator with a flair for emotional storytelling. Whether declaring, “I manipulate people’s emotions!” or helping students access their feelings, Teddy thrives on connecting through music. They found their voice at Buck’s Rock camp, teaching vocals and piano, directing choirs, and sparking inspiration for songs like the infamous “Michael.” A Berklee College of Music graduate, Teddy won Best Performance for their ballad “Rhode Island Roads” and later performed with Livingston Taylor.

cont. on page 34

Troubador Acoustic...

Admission is $20 per adult at the door, Folk Project members $15. Children 12 and under are free. For more info, see https://folkproject.org/mec-events/2025-09-26/

Date of Event: October 3, 2025

Location of Event: Morristown Unitarian Fellowship

Time of Event: 7:30 pm

Price of Event: $20.00 ($15 for members)

The Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series presents David Wilcox with Todd Dennison. David Wilcox is a masterful storyteller whose acoustic-driven sound connects deeply with listeners. His songs blend intricate melodies with lyrics that capture life’s complexities, turning each song into an emotional journey. A celebrated figure in folk music, Wilcox won the prestigious Kerrville Folk Festival in 1988, propelling his career forward. His evocative style has earned critical acclaim, including top honors at the USA Songwriting Competition in 2018.

Todd Dennison is a versatile multi-instrumentalist whose music bridges folk, jazz, rock, and American roots traditions. Influenced early on by artists like James Taylor and Kenny Rankin, Todd developed a distinctive guitar style known for its flowing bass lines, melodic chord voicings, and intuitive, expressive feel. A seasoned performer, Todd has toured nationally as a guitarist, bassist, pedal steel player, accompanist, and arranger. His playing is never showy, but always deeply musical

Admission is $20 per adult at the door, Folk Project members $15. Children 12 and under are free. For more info, see https://folkproject.org/mec-events/2025-10-03/

Date of Event: October 17, 2025

Location of Event: Morristown Unitarian Fellowship

Time of Event: 7:30 pm

Price of Event: $20.00 ($15 for members)

The Troubadour Acoustic Concerts presents The Mammals and Dustin Lowman.

The Mammals are folksingers Ruth Ungar, Mike Merenda, and a dynamic quintet of multiinstrumentalists whose sound spans fiddle, banjo, guitar, organ, bass, and drums. Over two decades, this fiercely independent band has built a legacy of genre-defying, politically charged, and emotionally resonant folk-rock praised as “some of the best songwriting

of their generation” (LA Times). Their music resonates with urgency and tenderness— amplifying voices of conscience, connection, and the full spectrum of human experience. The forthcoming release, Touch Grass Vol. 1 & 2 (2025), is a double album that rages, reflects, and rejoices—equal parts protest and balm, recorded at their own Humble Abode Music studio.

Dustin Lowman exudes wit, warmth, and wounded wonder through a poet’s eye and a voice that’s pure and true. A soulful folk singer whose songs spring from the quiet sanctum of reflection and the harsh echoes of rebellion, he delivers ballads both tender and absurd, stories shaped by heartbreak, hilarity, and a deep literary streak. With echoes of Dylan and the rawness of lived truth, his performances walk the line between traditional and heretical, inviting audiences into a shared human moment.

Admission is $20 per adult at the door, Folk Project members $15. Children 12 and under are free. For more info, see https://folkproject.org/mec-events/2025-10-17/

All Friday night concerts are presented by the Folk Project and will be held at the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 21 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown, NJ, at 7:30 p.m.

And a special event in October:

Beppe Gambetta and the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series present the New Jersey Guitar Summit

Date of Event: October 4, 2025

Location of Event: Morristown Unitarian Fellowship Event begins at 9:30 a.m.

Admission: $145 for Workshop 10 AM – 5 PM (Includes Lunch, Supper, Jam and Evening Concert)

$35 For Concert Only 8:00 PM / $20 Webcast of Concert Concert: Age 12 and under free with adult.

After the success of last year's guitar summit, the NJ Guitar Summit, organized by the Folk Project together with Beppe Gambetta, is back on Saturday October 4, 2025. It will again be an opportunity to meet, learn and share with new friends the passion for acoustic guitar. Like last year, the structure includes an intense day of workshops for each level, ending with a jam session and a final concert.

Teachers:

Beppe Gambetta: flatpicking technique starting with learning and understanding the music of the great masters to open the door to creativity in arranging, adapting and

cont. from page 32 cont. on page 35

Troubador Acoustic... cont. from page 34 composing with the guitar.

Tony McManus: the world of Celtic guitar, with all the embellishments, techniques, open tunings, in which the guitar reproduces the sounds of traditional instruments.

Jefferson Hamer: the guitar from the point of view of the songwriter, arranger and producer, delving into its use as an instrument on which the production of a song is built.

Professionals might be returning to work in offices after years of pandemic-related remote work, but that doesn’t mean home buyers aren’t still prioritizing home office space when shopping for a new place to call their own. According to a recent survey of home buyers conducted by the National Association of Home Builders, 66 percent would prefer to buy a home with exactly one home office space and 13 percent want at least two offices. Just one in five buyers indicated they do not want any home office space. The majority of buyers who want home office space prefer a medi-

um-sized space, which the NAHB defined as between 100 and 150 square feet. Just 22 percent of buyers prefer a home office space larger than 150 square feet, while only 19 percent want a small space (less than 100 square feet). The NAHB

survey indicates the enduring popularity of home office spaces, recognition of which can be particularly useful for current homeowners preparing to put their homes on the market as well as those looking to add office space.

What's Happening at Totowa Library

Library Zen

Join the Totowa Library for a calming new program designed for children ages 8-12, led by Judy O’Conner. Library Zen introduces mindful breathing, gentle movement, yoga poses, guided journeys, quiet reflection, and positive affirmations to help kids relax and reset. Perfect for young minds seeking balance and peace! This program will be every other Friday starting Friday, September 5th, 2025 from 3:304:15pm. Please register at: totowapl.org/register or call: 973-790-3265. Totowa residents receive first priority for all library programs!

Beginner Keyboard Lessons

A 16 week Beginer Keyboard Lessons will start on Wednesday, September 10th and every Wednesday for 16 weeks, with professional musician James Gulino! Children -4:00pm-5:00pm- (Ages 6-13), and adults-5:00pm-6:00pm(ages 14 and up!)

There is a one time registration fee of $25.00 to cover the cost of material. Totowa Residents receive first priority! Please register at: totowapl.org/register. Seating is limited! Each graduate will receive a free gift and do a recital!

Quilting Class Workshop

The Totowa Library will be hosting a Quilting Class Workshop with local artist: Anna Macaluso! This is a six week workshop starting Monday, September 8, 2025 from 10:00am-12:00pm. A $25.00 fee applies. The patrons will be making a “Scrappy Quilt”! You will need a generous amount of scraps, fat quarter works well. The pieces required are small so it would be nice to swap with friends. List of items to bring: Lots of scraps- 4 ¼ yards of fabric-we will discuss this item. Finished quilt is 75 x 95, but can be made smaller or larger or as a table runner! Don’t forget: sewing machine,

cutting mat, rotary cutter, thread, scissors, etc… and lets put our pedal to the metal!

Please visit: totowapl.org/register or call: 973-790-3265.

Simple Meal Solutions

Looking for convenient ways to add nutritious meals into your routine for busy weeks? Join Shoprite Dietitian Kamryn for tips on healthy meal planning with simple meal ideas for busy days, here at the Totowa library! Easy as 123… Tuesday, September 9th at 6:00pm! Visit: totowapl.org/register or call: 973-790-3265.

Fall Movie Festival

Every Wednesday at 1:00pm, here at the Totowa Library starting September 10-Just getting started, September 17th-Happy Gilmore, September 24-Happy Gilmore 2, October 1-Going in Style, October 8-Hangover, and October 15-Hangover 2. Visit: totowapl.org/register or call: 973-7903265.

Ballroom Dancing with Denise

The Totowa Library will be hosting Ballroom Dancing with Denise, a local Totowa Resident! Wednesdays at 7:00pm starting September 10, 2025. Originally from Miami, Florida, Denise Sobiewski began her dance journey at age 4 with jazz and ballet, later excelling in gymnastics for 11 years. She trained in ballet at the American Ballet Company in Florida before discovering her passion for ballroom dancing in high school at Arthur Murray. Denise went on to enjoy a successful professional career in American Smooth and Rhythm, spending 9 years with Arthur Murray while earning a Business degree with Honors from the University of Miami. A certified adjudicator with the NDCA and a Fellow in International Ballroom from the Terpsichore Organization, Denise now teaches independently in both New Jersey and New York City at various studios sharing her love and exper-

tise of dancing to people of all levels.

Please visit: totowapl.org/register or call: 973-790-3265 to reserve your spot. Space is limited!

Youth QiGong

Join our Youth QiGong Movement Today! Experience the benefits of QiGong for wellness with QiGong instructor Nina Reisman! For ages 8-12. Relax and move your body. Explore moving as different Qi animals. Play with natures flow of the sun, moon, and sky, to water, trees and rainbows from ancient QiGong forms. We use dance techniques to practice and learn QiGong Fusion flows. Enjoy a fun movement experience! Starting Friday, September 12, 2025 and every other Friday after! Visit: totowapl.org/register or call: m973-7903265. Totowa Resident receive first priority!

Low-Tox Living 101

The Totowa Library is very excited to present a Low-Tox Living 101 workshop with “Good for the Sole” Sara Sole! Simple swaps for a healthier home & body! Learn about low-tox living, why it matters and 5 simple swaps to start with: Two DIY projects, a hands on and take home sample! Tuesday, September 16, 2025 @ 6:00pm. Please register at: totowapl. org or call: 973-790-3265 to reserve your spot, seating is limited!

Kids Sewing Workshop!

Sign-up for the Kids Sewing Workshop with local seamstress Diane Flynn! This workshop is for kids grades 4-8. Workshop Highlights: Sewing Basics, Using a sewing Machine, Work on a project, Take home finished project! Dates for these workshops: September 16th-3:30-5:30pm, September 18-1:30-5:00pm, September 22-3:30-5:30pm, September 23-3:30-5:30pm. Please register at: totowapl.org/ register or call: 973-790-3265. Please bring a snack! Totowa residents take first priority!

What's Happening at Totowa Library

An Overview of Social Security Administration Benefits

The Social Security Administration will be doing a virtual seminar covering: *Social Security Numbers, *Disability, *Retirement, *Auxillary/Survivor benefits, *Medicare, *Online Services, *Appointments Focus delivery, *Scam awareness. Join us here or from home for this virtual seminar. A link will be shared through your email, or come to the library for a group watch from the library! Thursday, September 18, at 1:00pm, with Q&A after! Please RSVP at totowapl.org/register or call: 973-790-3265.

Understanding Bit Coin & Digital Assets

The Totowa Library will be holding a Bit Coin presentation with Alex Arguello through BitCoast digital assets education. Position yourself at the front of digital financial innovation. Join BitCoast Digital Assets Education for an introductory exploration of Bitcoin’s inception, rise, and strategic importance in the global economy. Thursday, September 25th at 6:30pm. Please register at: totowapl.org/register or call: 973-790-3265.

Reduce-Reuse-Repurpose-Recycle!

The Totowa Public Library is once again planning to host another “Reduce-Reuse-Repurpose-Recycle” event in the community this year on Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 9:00am to 1:00pm, rain or shine, in the back parking lot of the library!

These events consist of paper shredding, in which you can come and recycle old paperwork with sensitive information, Gaeta will be shredding documents on site. Your $5 per box donation helps make events like this possible. Contributions are appreciated, not required!

Used clothing drive through Clothing Donation Services, collecting clothing, shoes, accessories, blankets, pillows, bedspreads, sheets, towels, drapery, etc… all items must be in a tied plastic bag.

The Totowa Library is sponsoring a food drive of non-perishable foods, whole grain cereals, powdered milk, peanut butter and jelly, canned fruits/vegetables etc… Help us collect for local pantries!

Eyeglass and hearing aid collection through the Lions Club, Help someone see and hear better! Any questions please call: 973-790-3265 or email: totowapl@gmail.com

Totowa Library Mandolin Orchestra

The Totowa Library Mandolin Orchestra will be performing a concert on Thursday, October 23rd 2025 at 1:00pm, here at the Totowa Library. Their Fall concert consist of October Mandolin Melodies…. All are welcome! Please RSVP at: totowapl.org/register or call: 973-790-3265.

Essential Travel Tips and Tricks

Essential Travel Tips and Tricks with David Kriso, a published travel consultant and writer! Traveling can be overwhelming at times, but with the right tips, it can be fun. Pack light, plan your itinerary, and always keep an open mind to discover new experiences during your adventures. Join David as he gives us his expertise advice and lectures on:

“Amtrak: Staying on ‘track’ with America’s railroad”: David has been an avid Amtrak traveler since childhood. He’s also a long-time Amtrak Guest Rewards member. A historical and informational lecture on Amtrak routes, services, travel tips, recent accomplishments (i.e. Positive Train Control and Penn Station Moynihan Hall), and ongoing projects. September 17th, 2025 @ 6:30pm.

“Walt Disney World: To the mouse, the castle, and be-

yond!”: “Hi-ho, hi-ho, it’s off to Or-lan-do!”. Did you know that David Kriso is a former Walt Disney World cast member, a lifetime Disney traveler, and a long-time Disney Vacation Club member? Let him show you the ins, outs, and all the key hints to a successful and memorable Disney vacation. This is an experience for all first-time and minimally experienced Disney travelers. Key topics include a brief history of Walt Disney World, transportation, resort choices, must-do’s, new attractions and services, best kept secrets, and ideas for future visits. October 15, 2025 @ 6:30pm.

“Budget travel: Less money, more memories!”: A simple, sophisticated, but highly informative presentation demonstrating how travelers can spend less money on popular destinations or modes of travel, without breaking the piggy bank. Key topics include hotels, hotel booking sites, cruises, Amtrak travel, Walt Disney World, Atlantic City, San Francisco, and Las Vegas. February 11, 2026 @ 6:30pm.

“Cruising: Making waves & sense”: David is a veteran cruise line shore-side agent in the New York area. Let him share with you a detailed breakdown of what goes into a successful cruise vacation, from start to finish. Talking points include embarkation/disembarkation, documentation, the virtual safety/muster drill, passenger health, onboard dining, transportation, and duty-free shopping. April 8, 2026 @ 6:30pm.

Please visit totowapl.org/register or call: 973-790-3265 to register for any of these lectures!

Great Golf & The Beer Garden!

Looking to hit Fairways & Greens?

The Wildcats! A Doo Wop Concert, Music of the 50's! NEW DATE!

The Totowa Library presents a Doo Wop Concert , Music of the 50's with the singing group the Wildcats! Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at 1:00pm. Get Ready to Rock Around the Clock!

Doo Wop Delight: An afternoon of 50’s Magic! Step back in time to the golden era of music at Doo Wop Delight, a spectacular concert celebrating the timeless tunes of the 1950s! Get ready to groove, sway, and sing along to the unforgettable harmonies that defined a generation. Please visit: totowapl.org/register or call: 973-790-3265.

Family Caregiver Support Group

The Totowa Library located at 537 Totowa Road, Totowa N.J. 07512, will be hosting a Family Caregiver Support Group through Alzheimer’s New Jersey, every third Tuesday of the month in the meeting room 1&2 on the lower level of the library. This support group is free and open to anyone caring for an individual with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Up-coming meeting dates for 2025: September 16th, October 21, November 18th and December 16th.Visit: www.alznj.org or call the Helpline: 888-2806055 to register for this group and learn about additional programs for individuals, families, and caregivers who are coping with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Totowa Board of Recreation’s Yankee Game Extravaganza-25!

The Totowa Board of Recreation is sponsoring a NY Yankees vs. Baltimore Orioles baseball game on Saturday, September 27th. Game @ 1:30pm @ Yankee Stadium, Coach Bus leaves @ 10:00am. Bus pick-up at 10:00am in the parking lot behind the Library (Peterson Road). Cost: $75.00-includes tickets & bus, includes all you can eat & drink Hot Dogs, Sausage, Water & Pepsi Products. Registration: https://parksrec.egov.com/totowa or drop off check to 490 Totowa Road. Please make checks payable to: Totowa Board of Recreation. Bus seats are limited to 56 persons per bus. First come first serve. If an additional bus is neede, we will have a waiting list until we fill a secod bus. Any questions please call: Recreation Director, Mark Monteyne-201-803-6111.

Did you know?

According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the shifting climate across the planet is impacting extreme weather throughout the globe. NASA notes that heat waves affecting the land and the sea, severe floods, droughts lasting years in some cases, extreme wildfires, and hurricane-related flooding are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. Warming air and ocean temperatures resulting from the increased

burning of fossil fuels is affecting the water cycle, shifting weather patterns and melting land ice, all of which is making extreme weather even more severe.

And NASA warns that severity only figures to increase

even further as the planet continues to warm, meaning the storms of today, already devastating to the communities they affect, figure to be even more so as air and ocean temperatures continue to rise.