No. 2 Vol. No. 2 Vol. 8 12
T
December 20202020 August
Was Santa Claus Invented in Morristown?
By Henry M. Holden he image of Santa Claus is iconic. He strikes a portly figure, with a fluffy, white-as-snow beard, red coat with a white faux fur collar and cuffs, white fur-cuffed trousers, a red hat with white-fur trim, white gloves, and black belt and boots, carrying a bag of gifts for all good children. His jolly delivery makes young and old find a warm spot in their heart for this legend. And he is fondly remembered through the illustrations of Thomas Nast. Thomas Nast (1840-1902) and his family moved from Germany to Elmhurst, N.Y. when Nast was six years old. Nast was not a good student in the normal sense of the word, spending much of his time doodling. When his parents put him in art school when he was thirteen, he flourished almost overnight. The original drawing, Santa was an elfish-looking figure wearing a brown fur suit with stars on it. Nast’s Santa grew in size and shape and the suit evolved into the ensemble that resembles the image of the jolly St. Nick that is ubiquitous today. The first image of Santa Claus appeared in the 1862 Christmas issue of Harper’s Weekly, a political magazine of the day. By this time Nast was already known for his political caricatures. The image was not the iconic and beloved figure we know, but a likeness of Nast in a Union encampment giving gifts to the Union soldiers, basically saying they were the good soldiers, and Confederate soldiers were the enemy, and would not get any gifts. The Santa Claus idea had existed before Nast’s first illustration in 1862. Nast drew a picture of Santa Claus, inspired by a poem composed forty years earlier by Clement Moore who had written, “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” better known as “The Night Before Christmas.” Moore had created the poem for the amusement of his six small grandchildren. But his wife had recorded the poem in the family Bible; and later made its way into print. Nast apparently read the poem and drew Santa Claus, with sleigh and reindeer, much as Moore had described him. Nast also modeled some of his early depictions of Santa after his own image, so, a lot of his early Santa Claus
Santa has evolved into the iconic figure that children love. (Credit Henry M. Holden)
The original Santa Claus wore a fur jacket with stars on it and hardly resembles the Santa we have come to know and love.
images resembled Nast. Nast provided Harper’s Weekly with annual Christmas drawings until 1886. It was during this time that the iconic image we know today evolved. Nast, a long-time Morristown resident, and Clement Moore, American professor of Biblical languages were responsible for creating the Victorian image of Santa Claus that
we still know and use today. They gave the world a new image of St. Nicholas, one that would live in the hearts of children for generations to come. Nast’s Christmas themed work allowed him to use the Morristown neighborhood in which he lived and its backdrop of spires on the town’s churches, to drawings views of the town frequently in his Christmas drawings. In the latter part of the 19th century, there were no less than seven churches within a few blocks of Nast’s Morristown home, and most of them still exist. Nast and his family lived in a house on Macculloch Ave, (Villa Fontana) across from the Macculloch Hall and Museum (which today holds a large collection of Nast’s work). The house still stands but is under private ownership. This side of Nast’s work is significantly different from the world of political cartoons he is most famous for. Nast is most remembered for his cartoons that took down, “Boss” William M. Tweed, and the Tammany Hall Democratic party’s political machine in New York City, in 1871. Tweed was arrested, broke out of jail, fled to Cuba and Spain, before being extradited and dying in a New York City jail, in 1878. Nast is often considered to be the “Father of the American Cartoon”.
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Page 4 • December 2020
Friendship Quilt
Troop 96790
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irl Scout Troop 96790 in Woodland Park recently held a Fly-Up ceremony which transitions the girls from Brownies to Junior Girl Scouts. Bridging is an important transition in a Girl Scout's life. Girls are recognized for their achievements before their next chapter of new adventures and responsibilities.
Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, graduation? Have a human interest story or something you would like to share? Email us at editor@mylifepublications.com
S
tudents in Mrs. Casanovas' class at School 1 in Woodland Park created a Friendship Quilt. During the beginning of the year, students focus a great deal on social emotional development. What does it mean to be a friend? How can I show someone they are special to me? This activity promotes teamwork and working together.
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The Various Advantages to Shopping Locally
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esidents of a given town or city are often encouraged to support local businesses by looking to these firms to fill their needs. Small businesses are not just integral parts of communities, employing millions across the country, they also are operations that fund the very communities they service. Efforts to promote shopping local appear to be working. According to the Commonwealth Financial Group, over the last several years there has been a shift in consumer purchasing behavior marked by a preference among consumers to support locally owned shops and stores over big-box retailers and even online shopping. The following are some key reasons why shopping locally not only benefits small business owners, but also the communities they call home and the customers they serve. • More money stays in the community: According to the American Independent Business Alliance, for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 remains in the community. Conversely, only 43 percent of every $100 spent at a chain retailer stays in the community. • Job creation: The Business Alliance for Local Living Economies says local business-
es create the majority of economic growth. They employ millions of Americans by creating roughly two-thirds of private sector jobs. Local business owners also tend to hire people who represent the demographics of the communities where the business is located, which may include historically underserved populations. • Diversity of products: Local stores tend to diversify their products and services to meet the needs of the local communities, whereas chain stores often stock their shelves based on national demands. • Personalized service: A small business owner may be more inclined to go to great lengths to make customers happy because the long-term success of the business depends on customers becoming repeat customers. • Personal connection: Knowing the people behind a business facilitates a connection not easily achieved with other companies. Customers may celebrate when a favorite business succeeds and look to spread the word about that business because they feel like they played a positive role in its success. Shopping locally has gained momentum and is fueled by the many advantages to supporting local businesses.
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Page 6 • December 2020
Little Falls Puts On A Purple Glow For Pancreatic Cancer Awareness
Photo courtesy of the Township of Little Falls
T
own Hall is lit with a purple glow to spotlight World Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. The municipal building will feature the lighting throughout the month of November, culminating on World Pancreatic
Cancer Day held on Nov. 19. The goal is to increase awareness of pancreatic cancer and bring attention to the warning signs of developing the disease, including raising funds for research.
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December 2020 • Page 9
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hiropractic Physician – Dr. Hannawi is a Board Certified Chiropractic Physician licensed to practice in New Jersey. Dr. Hannawi attended Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, where he received his Bachelors of Science in Biological sciences. He completed his Chiropractic training at the University of Bridgeport where he earned his Doctorate in Chiropractic, graduating with honors. There, he worked as a full-time intern at the health science center in Bridgeport under the supervision of a licensed clinician as well as completing his summer rotations at Chase community health center in North Bridgeport. He now enjoys working alongside Dr. Sean Santagato at Elite Spine and Sports Care Of Totowa as a leading Totowa NJ Chiropractor. Dr. Hannawi is full body certified in Active Release Technique which includes the Upper Extremity, Lower Extremity, and Spine. Active Release Technique (ART) is a state of the art soft tissue system that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. Additionally,
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Page 10 • December 2020
Poppies for Veterans
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indergarten students in Mrs. Chiaravalloti’s, Mrs. Tundo’s and Mrs. Woessner’s classes at Charles Olbon School in Woodland Park created a “poppy flower” to give to a veteran this Veteran's Day. The students wrote cards to thank the veterans for protecting and serving our country. The cards were sent to a New Jersey veterans home.
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December is “Toys and Eye Safety” AWARENESS MONTH: ECC-NJ Pearls & Tips
D
r. Swati J. Parekh Says, “Ask for protective eyewear on your holiday gift wish list” In the beloved holiday movie, A Christmas Story, Ralphie attempts to convince his parents and Santa that a “Red Ryder BB gun” is the perfect Christmas gift. They all reject his pleas with the same warning: "You'll shoot your eye out." While you may not literally shoot your eye out, a new study in Ophthalmology Retina – a journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology – shows that BB and pellet guns do blind children every year. And, the number of eye injuries related to such non-powder guns are increasing at an alarming rate. Another study published earlier this year showed an increase of almost 170 percent over the last 23 years. If toy guns are on your shopping list, *EyeCare Consultants of NJ and the American Academy of Ophthalmology urge you to also give the gift of protective eyewear. Protective eyewear and proper guidance
make BB, pellet and paintball gun activities safer for children. To prevent eye injuries, ophthalmologists – physicians who specialize in medical and surgical eye care – share the following tips. • Buy the proper eye protection. Always wear eye protection that meets appropriate national standards when using non-powder guns. • Get a target. Have children shoot BB and pellet guns at paper or gel targets with a backstop to trap BBs or pellets. • Educate children. Teach them proper safety precautions for handling and using non-powder guns. • Be present. Ensure that there is always appropriate adult supervision. • Know what to do (and what not to) if an eye injury occurs. Seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist. As you wait for medical help, make sure to never to touch, rub, apply pressure, or try to remove any object stuck in the eye.
“Ophthalmologists see first-hand the devastating damage toy guns, of any type, can inflict on the eyes; children are injured or blinded & I’ve seen it,” says Swati J. Parekh, MD, FAAO, Chairwoman of St. Joseph’s Health Department of Ophthalmology, Wayne/Paterson, NJ. “The good news is that most of these injuries are truly avoidable. Protective eyewear and adult supervision make non-powder gun activities much safer for children. If you can’t resist the Ralphies in your life, buy protective eyewear.” (*education provided in collaboration with the AAO) Swati J. Parekh, MD, FAAO Clinical Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology New York Medical College Chairwoman, Ophthalmology St. Joseph’s Health, Wayne/Paterson, NJ Co-Founder, EyeCare Consultants of NJ (ECC-NJ)
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Page 12 • December 2020
Rx Med Drop
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total of 140 pounds of medications were picked up from the Police Department at the recent National Prescription Drug Take Back Day by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for destruction. The medications had been disposed of in the drug drop box in the Police Department lobby, 5 Brophy Lane, over the past year. Residents may use the drop box 24/7/365 to dispose of any unwanted medications. Medicines should be disposed of in their original container. Liquids should remain sealed in the original container. If the original container is submitted, remove the prescription label if it contains any personal identifying information. This program is anonymous. No questions will be asked nor requests for identification will be made. Syringes and sharps are not accepted.
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Courtesy Dr. Matthew F. Wachtler, DPM, FACFAS
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What is Morton’s Neuroma?
orton’s neuroma is a common condition that causes pain in the ball of your foot—most often in the area between the third and fourth toes. The feeling is often compared to that of having a small rock—or marble—stuck in your shoe. A neuroma is a small benign tumor of a nerve—although Morton’s neuroma is not actually a tumor. Instead, it is a thickening of the tissue that surrounds the nerves that lead to the toes. Causes & Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma Ill-fitting shoes—like those that squeeze toes together or distribute weight unevenly—are thought to be the main cause Morton’s neuroma. Those suffering with this condition often fiend relief by changing shoes, stopping their walk, or by rubbing the affected area. While poor shoe choice is usually the main cause of Morton’s neuroma, there are a number of other factors that contribute to its development. Some of these include: • Trauma • Biomechanical deformities • Repeated stress • Overuse In most cases, there are no outward symptoms related to this Morton’s neuroma. Instead, most people experience a burning pain in the ball of their foot, tingling or numbness in the toes after long period of stress, or the feeling of walking on a pebble in your shoe. When pain persists for more than a few days and you suspect it might be Morton’s neuroma, see your podiatrist to discuss your treatment op-
tions. Diagnosis & Treatment of Morton’s Neuroma To diagnose Morton’s neuroma, your podiatrist will perform a physical exam, where he or she will feel around for a mass or tender spot. Some imaging tests—like x-rays or an ultrasound—may be ordered to rule out any other causes of your foot pain. In most cases, Morton’s neuroma can be treated with non-surgical and non-invasive methods. Some of these treatments include: • Changes in footwear • Custom orthotics • Cortisone injections • Ice/rest • Anti-inflammatory medications If conservative approaches don’t relieve symptoms, your podiatrist may recommend surgical treatment. These procedures may include a procedure where pressure is relieved from the nerve by cutting the nearby structures, known as decompression surgery. Your podiatrist may also recommend removing the affected nerve altogether. The treatment your doctor chooses depends on the severity of your symptoms. Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists 886 Pompton Avenue Suite A-1 Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 973-857-1184
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WP Science
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econd grade students in Ms. Hajbi's class at Charles Olbon School in Woodland Park learned all about properties of matter. Each student identified the observable properties of candy corn. Then, they tested out several liquids to determine if they would dissolve the candy corn. Students made predictions and observed the results.
Brainfuse
he Alfred Baumann Library in Woodland Park and Totowa Public Library announces the launch of Brainfuse – on demand, anytime, anywhere eLearning for all ages and levels. HelpNow offers personalized homework help in core subjects, SAT prep and live tutors. Adult Learning Center is also offered. Brainfuse is available to Library patrons from the public computers at the Library or from any computer. There is no charge for this service. To find out more, visit brainfuse. com. Using HelpNow, students can communicate with live, online tutors using an interactive, virtual whiteboard to chat, write, draw, or copy/paste text or images. HelpNow also offers skills building and test preparation where after taking a quiz, the user can then connect to a live tutor to review topics and questions covered. The Writing Lab and the Send Question Center options allow users to receive assistance any time of the day. Users can submit papers through the Writing Lab for feedback. The Send Question Center is for non-writing assignments such as math or science. Adult Learning Center is the adult version of HelpNow where patrons can access GED prep, U.S citizenship test prep, resume assistance, Microsoft Office support, and career resources. Microsoft Office support allows patrons to ask questions about Excel, Word and PowerPoint. The Writing Lab, Send Question Center and the Skills Building are also included.
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Page 18 • December 2020
Students and Staff Upgrade Their Home Offices and Classrooms for Live Streaming
W
By Nick Busciglio ith Passaic Valley moving to a virtual model, students and staff are becoming more creative with their work spaces. Both teachers and students have invested time and resources to convert and build their home offices. English Teacher Mrs. Jamie Picarelli converted her classroom to accommodate the virtual teaching while Passaic Valley was in the hybrid model. In her classroom, she connected two computer monitors with her projector. She did this so she can see her virtual students as well as her students in class at the same time. With some of her students virtual and some in class, she feels some will feel left out or not getting the same teaching experience. She's converted her classroom to fix this problem and make sure all her students will get her time equally and efficiently. “I worry [virtual learning] is becoming very cut and paste,” Mrs. Picarelli explained, who mitigated her worries by slightly changing her teaching style. “I think one thing that virtual teaching has taught me is to be very flexible with my teaching.” In addition to upgrading his setup in school to accommodate the demands of the hybrid model, Science continued on page 19
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December 2020 • Page 19
continued from page 18 Teacher Mr. Randall Sanders converted his living room into his home office. “I made an office in the middle of my living room that I have to set up every morning,” said Mr. Sanders. “I also use the TV in my living room as a second monitor for my computer. This allows me to teach on one screen and see my students on the other.” Mr. Sanders wishes students would ask for help more often as he realizes online learning might be a difficult change for some students. As part of the Tech Team, Mr. Sanders is very grateful he was able to help other teachers and learn more himself about the virtual learning modality. One component Mrs. Picarelli and Mr. Sanders miss the most about traditional teaching is their ability to connect with their students. They miss the discussions they would have with their classes and the pure human connection. For teachers, it's hard to develop relationships with students through a camera. As teachers convert their offices for virtual teaching, students likewise prepare their work spaces for virtual learning.
Senior Abigail Shaw has set up a space where she is able to learn distraction free. “I really make sure my working space is free of distractions so I can really focus on my work,” said Shaw. “I find it really hard not getting distracted when learning from home.” She finds virtual learning pretty challenging as it is completely new to her. “It is a big transition from what I'm used to,” said Shaw. Although this is something she has never done, she is making the best of it and staying optimistic. Senior Mia Basile has made her own home office. She bought a new desk that she sits at for virtual learning. She finds that working at a desk in a space with no distractions is best for her. “I find that being home I tend to waste valuable time not doing my work because I get distracted," said Basile. "Sitting at my desk and being in a controlled space really helps me with that.” She finds that virtual learning can be tough at times, but with teachers being so understanding it really helps.
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Page 20 • December 2020
Sprains and Strains
Courtesy Anant Joshi, DPM, DABPM, AACFAS
S
prains and strains are common. You might sprain or strain your ankle while participating in your favorite athletic activity, or while simply walking to work as you do every morning. Sprains A sprain is the stretching or tearing of a ligament. A ligament is a fibrous band of connective tissue that joins the ends of two bones together. Ligaments stabilize and support the body's joints. Ligaments in the knee, for instance, connect the upper leg with the lower leg, allowing you to walk and run. Ankle sprains are common, and typically occur when the ankle rolls suddenly inward or outward. Symptoms of a sprain include pain, bruising, swelling, and inflammation. The individual often feels a tear or pop in the joint. In severe cases, this may make the joint nonfunctional. In other cases, where the sprain partially tears the ligament, some swelling may occur. Strains Chronic strains are the result of prolonged, repetitive
movements of muscles and tendons.Insufficient breaks during intensive training oftentimes lead to a strain. Symptoms of a strain include pain, muscle spasm, muscle weakness, swelling, inflammation, and cramping. In severe strains, the muscle and/or tendon are partially or completely ruptured, often incapacitating the individual. Prevention and Treatment There is no way to make yourself immune to sprains and strains, but proper stretching, appropriate footwear and warming up before engaging in physical activity will help alleviate these potential problems.Treatment regimens can vary depending on the severity of your injury, but one thing never changes ¬ visiting your podiatrist as soon as possible can help prevent risk of complication or long term injury. If you’ve suffered a sprain or strain, contact our office today. Advanced Foot Care of NJ 1031 McBride Ave. Suite D-105 Woodland Park, NJ 07424 Telephone: (973) 256-0002
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Acupuncture n Chiropractic n Nutrition n Reiki Homeopathy n Food Allergies & Intolerances
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December 2020 • Page 21
Hip and Knee Pain Relief Everything You Need to Know About Hip and Knee Pain Courtesy Dr Raffaele Lagonigro, PT Doctor of Physical Therapy
A
re your knees feel painful, or even feel as if they may buckle underneath you without warning? Do sharp pains in your hip make it difficult to get up in the mornings, move about during the day, and lie back down at night? Hip joint pain and knee pain can seriously interfere with your life, especially if you are dealing with both. Whichever may be paining you, physical therapy can help get to the root of your problem safely and comfortably, without the need for harmful drugs or surgery. Request a free phone consult with AIM Orthopedics: Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine to relieve your hip and knee pain altogether, sparing you the need for potentially harmful medication or surgical correction. Why am I experiencing hip and/or knee pain? Hip and knee pains can be experienced together or separately, but it is important to note that as the old saying goes, your knee bone is connected to your hip bone, therefore what happens with one, affects the other. Your hip is a balland-socket joint that works to support the weight of your upper body, relying on multiple muscles and tissues to keep it mobile and stable so it can move properly. Your knee is a
hinge joint, confined to forward-and-backward motions. Individually, your knees support more weight than the hips, 6 times your body weight when doing a squat. Proper movement of both your hips and knees allows complicated motions giving you the ability to stand, walk, run, and dance without falling over. Pain felt in the hips and/or knees may originate in the joints themselves, but it may also be a result of an underlying condition in another part of the body. For example, your hips and knees are part of the same kinetic chain, meaning they make up a combination of weight-bearing joints that must function together in harmony in order for your body and posture to function properly. Therefore, a problem with your knee joint may transmit abnormal forces to your hips, and vice versa. If one part of the kinetic chain is out of balance, stress and deterioration may be placed on another. Understanding hip and knee pain: Many times, the hips and knees suffer the same diseases, disorders, and injuries. For example, overuse injuries such as tendinitis and chronic muscle strain are common in both the hips and knees because both joints are constantly in use. They are also both subject to acute injuries, such as sprains, strains, and dislocation. Hip and knee pain can also be caused by referred pain from a pinched sciatic nerve, as the nerve travels through both
areas. Imbalances in your stance or gait may cause abnormal stresses and premature wear-and-tear in your hips and knees, resulting in painful symptoms of arthritis. Some painful conditions may be specific to one joint or the other. Cartilage injuries known as labral tears are specific to hip pain, while inflammation of the bursa sacs known as bursitis is a specific condition affecting the knee joint. continued on page 22
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Page 22 • December 2020
Hip and Knee Pain Relief continued from page 21 However, painful injuries that cause instability in the hips can also affect the knees. Tight hip flexor muscles and weak gluteus medius muscles can cause the hip to rotate inward without you realizing it. This can cause painful problems such as iliotibial band friction syndrome or patellofemoral stress syndrome, as stress is put on the knee or kneecap. Find hip and knee pain relief today: The physical therapy treatments at AIM Orthopedics: Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine can help to greatly reduce your hip and knee pain. Our Little Falls, NJ physical therapists will examine your hip and/or knee for signs of misalignment or structural damage, in addition to examining your stance, posture, gait, and range of motion. In many cases, our physical therapist can relieve your pain altogether, sparing you the need for potentially harmful medication or surgical correction. After your physical exam is complete, our physical therapist will prescribe a physical therapy plan for you, aimed at relieving unnatural stresses and strains. They will also focus on normalizing your joint function so you can get back to living life comfortably. You will be given targeted exercises de-
signed for relieving joint pain and stabilizing the weak hip and/or knee. The exercises may vary depending on your condition; for example, research has demonstrated that those suffering from patella pain (kneecap pain) tend to respond better to exercises that focus on strengthening both the hips and knees, rather than just focusing on the knees alone. You may also be given exercises designed to strengthen the core, including your lower back muscle groups, lower abdominal muscle groups, or pelvic muscles. Core exercises are aimed at straightening your posture and equalizing the weight load on both sides of your body. Additional specialized treatments may also be added as our physical therapists deem fit, such mobilizations to improve joint movement or other soft tissue treatments that relieve pain and promote the healing of damaged hips and/ or knees. Request a free phone consult at AIM Orthopedics: Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine today to meet with one of our dedicated Little Falls, NJ physical therapists. It is time to take a stand against your hip and knee pain – get started on the path toward long-lasting pain relief today! Your hips and knees will be glad you did!
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Page 24 • December 2020
Mo & Jay Pastry Opens in Little Falls
Photos courtesy of the Township of Little Falls
A
delicious array of desserts and treats have made their way to Little Falls. Mo & Jay Pastry, located at 44 Main Street, celebrated with a grand opening on Nov. 15. Pictured is Mayor James Damiano
and council members during the ribbon cutting. Also pictured are owners Mohamad and Jaleesa Al-Kassem celebrating their opening with one of their specialty eclairs.
December 2020 • Page 25
Military Banners
M
ilitary tribute banners have begun to be installed along McBride Avenue near Brophy Lane. Any family who has had a service member from town - active military, veteran, or KIA/MIA/POW - may sponsor a banner honoring that individual. Our way of saying thanks to the men and women who have served in our military, it is our hope that by next Memorial Day, all of McBride Avenue is lined with these tributes. The color banners are 30 inches by 83 inches and are yours to keep after the display period, which is until Veterans Day 2021. For more information or to sponsor a banner, contact Lori Brigati at 973-2561264 or lbrigati@wpnj.us.
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Page 26 • December 2020
Essex County Executive DiVincenzo Announces Cancellation of 2020 Essex County Holiday Lights Spectacular at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
E
ssex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. announced on Friday, November 6th that the 2020 Essex County Holiday Lights Spectacular at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo has been cancelled because of the Coronavirus. “Because of the pandemic, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Holiday Lights Spectacular,” DiVincenzo said. “The lights show has become a much-anticipated holiday tradition for tens of thousands of people. However, with the number of positive cases growing and a new wave of the virus upon us, we decided it was not in the best interest of public health to hold this year’s extravaganza,” he added. “We wish everyone a happy holiday season and ask that families be thoughtful and cautious if they gather in larger groups to celebrate Thanksgiving and the upcoming winter holidays. We understand residents may be feeling fatigued by the pandemic, but we must continue to wear masks, practice social distancing, get tested regularly and wash our hands. The lives we save will be those of our loved ones,” he added. The only holiday-themed light display will be located at the entrance to the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo complex on Northfield Avenue. Motorists will be able to see the display as they drive by the complex. In past years, visitors to the Holiday Lights Spectacular were asked to bring non-perishable food items to Turtle Back Zoo, which were donated to the Community FoodBank
of New Jersey. Since the event is cancelled, the food drive will not take place. Instead, DiVincenzo encouraged residents to think about the less fortunate and make donations to their local food pantry or the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. Please check the Turtle Back Zoo website at www. TurtleBackZoo.com/admission-hours/ for current hours and admission rates. Reservations to visit the zoo must be made by visiting. Turtle Back Zoo will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. The Essex County Park System was created in 1895 and is the first county park system established in the United States. The Park System consists of more than 6,000 acres and has 23 parks, five reservations, an environmental center, a zoo, Treetop Adventure Course, ice skating rink, roller skating rink, three public golf courses, golf driving range, two miniature golf courses, five off-leash dog facilities, a castle and the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens. Essex County continues to offer free COVID testing for Essex County residents. To register and for upcoming dates, please visit www.EssexCOVID.org. Essex County also offers weekly Emergency Food Distributions. For upcoming locations, visit www.EssexCountyNJ.organd click on the “Essex County Emergency Food Distribution Give Away” link.
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December 2020 • Page 27
Essex County Executive DiVincenzo Announces $2 Million Grant Program to Help Essex County Residents with Mortgage Assistance
E
ssex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. announced that Essex County is allocating $2 million for a grant program to help residential property owners from Essex County who have been negatively impacted by the Coronavirus and are behind on their mortgage payments. Applications for the Essex County Coronavirus Mortgage Assistance Program are now available and can be found at https://portal.neighborlysoftware.com/ essexcountynj/Participant. Grants will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. “The Coronavirus pandemic has impacted the lives of people from all different segments of our County’s population both in a public health perspective and their financial strength. Being able to offer our Mortgage Assistance Program is another way we are helping our residents through these difficult and challenging times,” DiVincenzo said. “Providing these funds promotes home ownership and stabilizes our neighborhoods by helping residents stay current in their mortgage payments and remain in their homes,” he added. “I am proud to partner with County Executive Joe DiVincenzo to allocate funding towards much needed programs to assist our residents in need. Earlier this fall, the Essex made funding available to individuals and families needing rental assistance, as well as small businesses needing lease assistance. Our mortgage assistance program aims to provide similar relief to Essex County homeowners who have also suffered financial hardship due to COVID-19,” Freeholder President Brendan Gill said.
Eligible residents can earn 150 percent above the Area Medium Income levels established by the Federal Office of Housing and Urban Development. This means an eligible single person can earn $111,312 annually, a family of two can earn $127,187, a family of three can earn $143,125 and a family of four can earn $159,000. Additional income eligibility requirements for larger families can be found on the application website. In addition to completing a short questionnaire, applicants must be able to provide proof of income loss on or after March 1, 2020, because of the coronavirus pandemic. The property for which the applicant is seeking assistance must be their primary residence. Any grant awards from Essex County will be paid directly to the lending institution. This is the most recent financial assistance initiative presented by the County Executive. Previous coronavirus financial relief programs include a $10 million partnership with the NJ Economic Development Authority to support small businesses and non-profit organizations, a $5.5 million Emergency Rental Assistance Program and a $9 million partnership with the NJ Redevelopment Authority to offer the Essex County Small Business Lease Emergency Assistance Grant. Essex County is utilizing money from the Federal CARES Act to fund the Essex County Coronavirus Mortgage Assistance Program.
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Wrist Fracture • Trigger Finger • Arthritic Conditions WHAT WE DO Patients receive certified hand therapy services for rehabilitation of injuries and disorders of the fingers, hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. Our services include: Comprehensive Evaluations • Fabrication of Custom Static and Dynamic Splints (Orthotics) • Wound Care Creating Individualized Home Programs • Edema Control • Range of Motion • Desensitization • Kinesiotaping Scar Management • Sensory Re-education • Joint Protection • Energy Conservation/Work Simplification Activities of Daily Living • Strengthening • BTE Work Simulation/Conditioning Same-Day Appointments/Splint Fabrication if deemed medically necessary by your doctor
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Page 28 • December 2020
T
he Woodland Park American Legion Post 238 and its Women's Auxiliary hosted the annual Veterans Day service on Nov. 11 at the war memorial on
WP Veterans Day
McBride Avenue at Brophy Lane. The community is grateful for the service and that Post 238 and its Auxiliary keeps this tradition alive in Woodland Park.
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December 2020 • Page 29
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Page 30 • December 2020
WPFD Drill
T
he West Paterson Fire Department recently held a multi-company hoseline drill in the Kearfott parking lot. It's imperative that firefighters be proficient at the basics of the job and regularly practice skills. The
selection of the right size and type of hoseline is a decision that has to be mastered so it can be made in a split second on arrival at a fire.
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Shop Small and Give Back This Holiday Season
his year has been tough for many. Despite the challenges, acts of compassion and generosity can bring together the global community. With this holiday season different than those before, it is important to remember the world’s shared humanity and help make the season brighter. For those who will be celebrating this season and are looking for gifts that give back, UNICEF Market offers an online collection of handcrafted gifts made by artisans from around the world. Supporting these small businesses helps both the artisans – many of whom are dealing with economic hardship because of the pandemic – and the lifesaving mission of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The platform brings business to artists like Mirian Otzin from Central America, who began weaving using Mayan techniques with her mother as a hobby at the age of 8. Otzin worked for a female weavers organization for 16 years before becoming an entrepreneur. “This is something I’m grateful to UNICEF Market for because for me and many artists like me, this is our only source of income,” she said. “Thanks to its system and the space it’s opened up for artisan women like me, we still have hope that we can overcome this pandemic. During these hardships, we’re still crafting in our home-based workshops, making sure we’re following all the health protocols set by our health departments and the platform’s rules that we must follow to keep everyone safe.” Featuring an array of woven goods, Otzin’s profile includes table linens, cushion covers and bags. In addition to Otzin, more than 2,000 artisans are empowered on the
platform. These entrepreneurs share their talents, selling their handcrafted items for homes and gardens, jewelry and more, such as reclaimed stone flowerpots and onyx and marble chess sets from Mexico, teakwood cutting boards from Thailand, silk tapestries from Ghana and knit blankets from India. A portion of gifts’ proceeds also help fund lifesaving programs such as nutrition, sanitation, education and more in the more than 190 countries where UNICEF works. Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, the organization’s 13,000 staffers have reached 250 million children with distance-based learning and 2.88 billion people with virus prevention information, as well as delivering more than 234 million units of personal protective equipment, hospital equipment and diagnostic tests to frontline workers globally. As the largest vaccine buyer in the world, the organiza-
Happy and healthy holiday wishes from our family to yours.
December 2020 • Page 31
tion is set to lead the procurement and supply of COVID-19 vaccines in the world’s biggest and fastest operation of its kind. Share the best of this season by visiting unicefusa.org/ ShopSmall2020. (Family Features)
Proudly serving our community for over 55 years spanning three generations
635 McBride Avenue • Woodland Park, NJ 07424 (973) 345-2500 www.SantangeloFuneral.com Guy J. Santangelo (1917-2008)
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Page 32 • December 2020
Comparing Medicare Plans to Save You Money
Medicare Open Enrollment is here. With plan premiums at historic lows, now’s the time to review your coverage options
M
edicare’s Open Enrollment gives people with Medicare the opportunity to sign up for health or prescription drug plans, or make changes to their existing health plans or prescription drug plans for coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2021. But don’t delay – Open Enrollment ends on Dec. 7, 2020. Why compare plans for next year? Just as your health care needs can change from year to year, so do Medicare plans. While Medicare plans generally cover all Part A and Part B benefits, not all plans offer the same cost sharing or additional benefits. You may be able to find new extra benefits, save money – or both. What’s new this Open Enrollment? Medicare plans in 2021 have historically low premiums – dropping an average of 34% over the last three years, and in some states dropping over 50%. There’s never been a better time to go to Medicare.gov and look at your options. If you’re among the 1 in 3 people with Medicare who has diabetes, here’s some more good news: hundreds of prescription drug plans will be participating in a new insulin savings initiative, through which they’ll offer a month’s supply of a range of insulins for a copayment of $35 or less in 2021. If you take insulin and enroll in one of these plans, you could save an average of $446 per year on your out-ofpocket costs for insulin next year. Here are some things to consider when shopping for Medicare plans: Check if your doctors are still in-network and your prescriptions are on the plan’s formulary.
The plan with the lowest monthly premium may not always be the best fit for your health needs. Look at the plan’s deductible and other out-of-pocket costs that factor into your total costs. Some plans offer extra benefits, like vision, hearing or dental coverage, which could help meet your unique health care needs in 2021. If you take insulin, you may find a plan offering insulin for $35 or less for a 30-day supply. Medicare is here to Help Think you’ll need help comparing plans? Here are some things you can do safely from home: Find plans at Medicare.gov, where you can compare coverage options and see estimated out-of-pocket costs for all your prescriptions. Call us at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. Help is available 24 hours a day, including weekends. You can also find help in your community. Get personalized health insurance counseling at no cost to you from your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Visit shiptacenter.org, or call 1-800-MEDICARE for your SHIP’s phone number. Many SHIPs also have virtual counseling this year. Medicare Open Enrollment ends on Dec. 7, 2020. Now’s the time to act if you want to enroll in or make changes to your Medicare health or prescription drug plan for coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2021. If your current coverage still meets your needs then you don’t have to do anything. Re-
member, if you miss the Dec. 7 deadline, you’ll likely have to wait a full year before you are able to make changes to your Medicare coverage. For more information, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE. If you need help in a language other than English or Spanish, let the customer service representative know the language. You can also find information about Medicare on the Medicare Facebook page and by following @MedicareGov on Twitter. Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
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Creative, Colorful Christmas Ideas for Kids
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December 2020 • Page 33
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
icking out the perfect presents for kids this holiday doesn’t limit your search to simply including gifts with screens or the hottest tech gadgets. Although the amount of options in store and on virtual shelves for kids can be somewhat overwhelming, gifts fostering imaginative play and creativity never go out of style. Even if it seems your children already have pretty much everything, getting back to the basics with crafty gifts like paint and art sets, color and wash collectibles, science kits or customizable DIY projects encourage children to express their creativity and explore their inner-artists. Consider these activities that can spark imagination and allow kids of all ages to create colorful memories this
holiday season. Find more at Crayola.com. Custom Craft Creations Give the kids creative freedom with an option like Crayola’s Maker series, which allows them to create custom paper and markers for arts and crafts time at home or school projects. The Marker Maker comes with 16 makeable markers along with a color mixing guide and customizable labels for each one. The Paper Maker includes an instruction booklet, paper-making pulp to make 20 sheets of 5-by-8-inch paper, a stir and smoothing tool and a pressure plate. Both kits make it fun and easy to craft DIY cards, decor, notes and other projects. Colorful Pets
Kids can take imaginative, creative play to new places this holiday season with the Scribble Scrubbie Pets Grooming Truck. This life-like environment includes a grooming truck with moving wheels and features a real working spray pump and scrub tub that allow kids to wash and clean the two included pets just like real groomers do. The truck also doubles as an easy-to-pack storage solution for taking the customizable pets on-the-go for later use. After creating a colorful look for their pets using washable markers, kids can simply scrub them clean for a fresh blank canvas to create over and over. (Family Features)
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Page 34 • December 2020
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Eat and Drink Smart to Fend Off Cold and Flu Season
t’s no secret that a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and veggies can deliver important vitamins and nutrients for better health, but many of your favorite foods can actually help support your immune system, too. In addition to precautions like avoiding people who are sick and washing your hands often, you can influence your immune system through what you eat and drink. Stay hydrated. Keeping well hydrated can be difficult during the winter months, especially if you spend most of your time indoors. A warm drink like this flavorful Orange Spiced Tea provides a strong dose of vitamin C along with a delicious dose of hydration. Keep the produce going strong. Fresh, seasonal fruits and veggies often come to mind during warmer months, but produce like citrus, leafy greens and root vegetables are plentiful during cold and flu season, too. “Consuming the whole fruit is the best way to ensure you gain the maximum nutritional benefit,” Dr. Poonam Desai said. “When speaking with patients, I recommend seeking nutrients like vitamin C from whole food sources, rather than supplements, especially with a vitamin C-rich fruit like California oranges.” Get a natural boost of vitamins. Vitamins A and C, found in fresh citrus, are two key nutrients that support your body’s natural line of defense, your immune system. Just one orange offers 90% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C, and California Navel oranges are in their peak season – just in time for the height of cold and flu season. Get inspired with more ideas to boost your immune system with essential vitamins and nutrients at californiacit-
rusgrowers.com. 5 Ways to Get More Vitamin C Pick heavy fruit. When shopping for citrus, choose fruit that smells fresh and feels heavy for its size. The heavier the orange, the juicer it’s likely to be. Explore versatility. Fresh citrus like California Navel oranges make a nutritious addition to sweet and savory dishes, beverages, cocktails, sauces and more. Use the whole fruit. Reduce food waste by consuming the flesh, juice, zest and peel. Try squeezing juice and grating zest into a smoothie, using orange segments for a vibrant salad or combining diced Navels with red onion, cilantro and jalapenos for a zesty salsa. Retain vitamin C content. Vitamin C is water soluble, so to retain as much as possible, eat citrus fresh, avoid overcooking and use minimal amounts of water. Refrigerate for longer shelf life. Keep your citrus fresh longer by storing it in the refrigerator at a temperature below 42 F. To get the most juice out of the orange, bring it to room temperature before cooking. Orange Spiced Tea Recipe courtesy of California Citrus Growers 6 cups water 1 clove cinnamon or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 6 tea bags 1 cup California Navel orange juice 1/2 cup white sugar 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 slice California Navel orange Bring water and cinnamon to boil; let cinnamon dis-
solve. Remove from heat and add tea bags; soak at least 5 minutes. Remove tea bags. In separate pan, bring orange juice, sugar and lemon juice to boil. Stir until sugar dissolves. Pour juice mixture into spiced tea. Garnish with orange slice and serve hot.
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December 2020 • Page 35
Page 36 • December 2020
After a Return to Sports in the Fall PV Looks Forward to Winter Season
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By Devyn DiPasquale fter a successful return to sports this fall, Passaic Valley is now gearing up for the upcoming winter season. The fall season brought many new restrictions and regulations. Coaches, players, and fans can expect the same for the winter season. After the state-wide shut down in March and the cancellation of all spring sports, the return to sports in the fall became a focus of the school and many athletes. It was vital to establish guidelines to ensure the safety of the athletes and prevent the spread of COVID-19. “My number one priority is providing our students with a healthy and safe environment for co-curricular activities,” said Athletic Director Joseph Benvenuti. “We have a responsibility to keep everyone safe, but, at the same time, it pains me to see so many students losing out on the great experiences being altered by COVID-19.” Although most fall sports began as normally scheduled, the indoor sports, volleyball and gymnastics, were moved to the spring and added as a fourth season due to the inability to follow COVID-19 guidelines indoors. The Governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, recently signed an executive order to allow indoor sports to resume in the winter with specific restrictions and guidelines. The schedules for winter sports are in the process of being finalized with new rules so that indoor sports can occur in a safe manner. Mr. Benvenuti explained that the new regulations would include “Less contact, smaller attendance
for practices and games when possible, wearing masks, social distance, fewer spectators (or possibly no spectators) and more are what we can expect if and when the indoor winter sports take place.” “We had a different drive once the season started. Going through this tough time with my team only made us closer,” said senior football player Antonio Bargiel. “It made us want to work harder. Knowing, especially as seniors, that our season could stop at any point made us both nervous and eager to get on the field. Coach Wassel makes it clear to us every time we stepped on the field that it could possibly be our last and never take anything for granted.” Fall sports were also a way for the athletes to come together after such a long time apart. The resumption of sports allowed the students and the community to have something to look forward to. “We are seeing and learning about adversity firsthand with this virus and the negative effects it is having on our world,” said Mr. Benvenuti. “Providing our athletes with the opportunity to practice, play and compete will at the very least allow them to feel some sort of normalcy in their lives.” With the preparation for the fall season being so intensive, even more planning for the winter can be expected. Given that winter sports take place indoors, more restrictive guidelines will have to be established. “The amount of planning, safety measures, collaboration, and scheduling that took place during the months of June, July and
August is incomprehensible," said Mr. Benvenuti. "The NJSIAA, along with Athletic Directors and the NJ Medical Advisory Board worked diligently to devise safe return to play protocols and procedures.” Regardless, winter athletes remain hopeful and are looking forward to their seasons. “When the season was approved by the Governor, I was so excited,” said senior basketball player Taylor Hill. “Knowing that basketball could be taken from us at any point will make me work a thousand times harder, because any game could potentially be my last ever. I really push myself to make the best of every game and practice from day one because it could all end in the blink of an eye. For this season the saying ‘leaving it all on the court’ will always be in the front of my mind.” The Passaic Valley community is looking forward to future sports seasons and remains hopeful that the student-athletes will have the chance to continue to participate in the sports that they love. “I am just grateful for each opportunity our students get this school year. In a world where so much is being lost due to this pandemic, I find great joy in watching our athletes compete, learn, and hopefully appreciate how precious time is!” concluded Mr. Benvenuti. “We never know what is around the corner so we must learn to enjoy each opportunity and treat it like it is our last."
December 2020 • Page 37
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Page 38 • December 2020
Skip the Holi-daze
How to Spend Added Time Making Memories
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aking time to reconnect with loved ones is a wish topping many lists this holiday season, so set aside the chaos and commit to doing more this year. More of what you truly enjoy, that is. These time-saving holiday hacks from the Chinet® brand can help curb your time commitments so you can focus on personal connections and celebrating good cheer with loved ones instead. Spread out prep time. If you’re busy putting the final touches on a meal as guests begin to arrive, you’ll miss out on the excitement as the party begins. Rely on tricks to spread your meal preparation out over the days before your event, such as making sides and casseroles ahead of time and freezing them so all you have to do on the big day is pop them in the oven. Mashed potatoes are a notorious last-minute time suck, so make them early in the day and keep them warm in a slow cooker. Just add a bit of cream and stir periodically to keep them soft and fluffy. Simplify cleanup. After enjoying a meal surrounded by loved ones, there’s no reason to halt the conversation while you slip away to bring order back to the kitchen. Cover dishes and put perishables away then return to your guests for the quality time you deserve. If you use disposable tableware, there’s even less to worry about later. For example, Chinet Classic White
products make cleanup easy so you can spend more time with friends, family and guests. The plates and bowls are strong enough to serve the heaviest, messiest meals with style then you can simply toss them when you’re done. Shop local for shortcuts. Local businesses are feeling the crunch of 2020 in a big way, but you can give them a boost while doing yourself a time-saving favor. Pick up a pie or specialty dessert from a local bakery. Inquire about family-size sides from the family restaurants in your community. Also remember to check with school-age children you know, as many seasonal fundraisers offer pre-made holiday desserts and other treats you can share with guests with minimal effort. Get out of the house. If you’ve spent too much time this year looking at your own surroundings, getting away from it all may lift your spirits while saving the hours you’d pour into getting your home ready for entertaining. Community groups with their own facilities often have space available to rent, and these spaces are typically large enough to maintain social distancing requirements and are subject to rigorous cleaning protocols. Alternately, if you’re keeping the guest list small, renting a vacation home offers the opportunity to turn the seasonal celebration into a short road trip for added memories and joy. With some simple decorations, you can create a
fun atmosphere for your holiday event and skip the headaches of hosting at home. Go short and sweet. If the idea of a fullfledged dinner event is stretching you too thin, look for festive ways to scale back. For example, a dessert-only party lets you gather with loved ones and keep the focus on the company rather than the food. Plan themed stations with different styles of desserts and consider asking family members to help stock each station with their own favorite treats. Add a touch of style by placing a stack of Chinet Cut Crystal dessert plates at each station so guests can sample all their favorites while they mingle. The collection also includes cups and stemless wine glasses ideal for a beverage table or single servings of desserts like mousse or parfaits. Find more ways to manage your time this holiday season at MyChinet.com. Celebrate Like It’s 2020 After a whirlwind of a year, this holiday season promises to be a little different than those of years past. Instead of lamenting what won’t be the same, treat this year as an opportunity to deck the halls in a whole new way. Invite technology to the party. With group gatherings and travel restrictions likely to continue in many parts of the country through the holiday season, there’s a good chance you may not be able to gather with everyone you’d like. Howev-
er, the pandemic has shown how simple it can be to use technology to stay connected. Go ahead and schedule a virtual party or make time to jump on a video chat during your celebration to include those who can’t be there in person. To help add a touch of normalcy to the festivities, consider packaging and sending small boxes of party essentials in advance to each person who’ll join the virtual party. Make giving a group effort. Helping those in need is a tradition many people honor around the holidays, but this year your giving is likely to be especially impactful. When you join efforts with family or friends, your contributions can go even further, and it’s a way to bond over your shared experience. Consider volunteering as a group at a food pantry, adopting a family or two together or finding another local cause that could use some extra help and count your blessings while you enjoy the extra time together. Simplify gift-giving. As families grow, the gift lists get longer. However, especially in a year like this, not many wallets have expanded to keep up with the pace. Forgo the time and money required to buy for everyone in the family and start a new tradition by drawing names and instead of buying smaller items for a lot of people, put a little more toward a single item your recipient truly wants or needs. (Family Features)
December 2020 • Page 39
A Christmas Story
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By Richard Mabey Jr. he Christmas of 1973 was so very dear and precious to my heart. I was to learn the important spiritual lesson to never give up on a goal, even in the midst of trials and tribulations. I was 20 years old and my cousin, Howard Palmer, was 19. We both were born in early September, our birthdays were just a few days apart. So that was just one of the common bonds that welded our spirit of brotherhood to each other. Howard suffered from Muscular Dystrophy. From about the time he was five years old, he was confined to a wheelchair. We were close cousins, in all so many ways we were closer than a lot of brothers are. Howard was a very intelligent boy. He was an incredibly talented artist. He developed his own unique style in both oil paints and water colors. His forte was landscapes. But, he also had a great talent for painting portraits. In mid-December of 1973, Howard came down with pneumonia. It was a most sad thing. When he went into the hospital, I cried. When my mom told me the news that Howard was in the hospital, I took a walk in the woods behind my house, to the towpath of the old Morris Canal. I sat upon the foundation of my great grandfather’s old icehouse and I cried my eyes out. I knew that the odds were that Howard was not going to pull through. Evening came and that night, I cried myself to sleep. Howard was always like a brother to me. During the summer time, I would hop onto my bicycle and ride the ribbon of road of old Route 202, down to Howard’s house. We both lived on Route 202, about a mile apart. Howard lived in Montville, I lived in Lincoln Park. We would sit at the kitchen table and I would write stories and Howard would draw and paint. I would arrive early morning to Howard’s house. I would help Aunt Bert, Howard’s mom, get Howard up from bed and into his wheelchair. Howard and I used to listen to Cousin Brucie play the hits on the old WABC-AM radio station, as we fulfilled our artistic and creative destinies upon that humble kitchen table.
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Aunt Bert would be stirring soup at her stove, with home-made bread in the oven. Aunt Bert would make soup from scratch that would put canned soup to shame. At lunch time, I had the high honor of cutting the warm bread into thick slices. Howard loved to sop up the soup with his buttered bread. When I saw Howard in the hospital, he was working on a painting for his dear mother. It was to be a surprise. It was early morning and there was Howard sitting up in his hospital bed, with his little bottle of oil paints spread all about his bed. It was a most heart-warming scene. Howard was fully aware that his time on this earth was coming to a close. The good Lord blessed Howard with a private room, in the hospital. Howard and I talked and talked and talked about the hereafter, during my many times of visiting him in the hospital. While we talked, Howard would keep on working on his painting for his mom. Howard told me that his blessed angel had come to visit him several times, since he was first admitted in the hospital. He spoke of his dreams of visiting with our relatives who had passed on. There was an ethereal calm in Howard’s voice. A kind of acceptance that he knew he was soon to leave this earthly existence and cross over to Heaven’s Gate. Howard did finish his painting for his mom. It was a beautiful painting of a garden, with a white bench in its midst, a tall maple tree, and an angel in the sky. Truly, it was one of the most beautiful paintings I have ever seen in my entire life. Christmas arrived. I had the high honor of being present, in Howard’s hospital room, when Howard gave his painting to his mom. I had brought the Christmas wrapping paper for Howard to wrap it with, the day before. Aunt Bert cried when she opened her son’s heart-felt gift. We all cried. Grandma Kemmerer was there. Grandpa had passed away just two years ago. But, I felt Grandpa’s presence in spirit. My mom and dad and sister, Patti, were also there. Howard’s dad and his two brothers and his sister were also present.
A rare photo of Cousin Howard (left-hand side of photo) in his classroom.
Howard’s words were very simple. He looked at each and every one of us and simply said, “don’t cry. Please don’t cry. I’m soon going to be going Home to be with the Lord.” In early January of 1974, Cousin Howard peacefully passed away. My cousin Howard was a most courageous young man. I still miss him very much. I still deeply mourn his passing. His kind words still gently echo in my heart, “please don’t cry. I’m soon going to be going Home to be with the Lord.” Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@hotmail.com. Please place the wording “My Life Weekly” in the subject line.
Holiday Presents for Every Person (and pet) on Your Holiday List
ith a variety of personalities and interests likely on your holiday shopping list, finding the perfect gift for everyone can be a daunting task. Rather than spending countless hours browsing online or walking up and down store aisles, consider this array of gift ideas that can put you on the path toward successful shopping during a holiday season sure to be unlike any before it. With more people spending time at home, gifts that can keep the house clean, showcase team spirit or provide a simple way to pass the time can be hits. Of course, you can also ship a tasty meal directly to a loved one’s door or give that four-legged family member an extra special treat. Find more holiday gift-giving inspiration at eLivingtoday.com. A Tasteful Holiday Gift Give the gift of flavor this holiday sea-
son with a full spread of Omaha Steaks favorites in one collection. Loaded with double-trimmed, famously fork-tender Butcher’s Cut filet mignons, tender and crispy bacon-wrapped filet mignons, flavor-packed burgers, classic boneless pork chops, juicy boneless chicken breasts, gourmet jumbo franks, all-beef meatballs, a savory side and dessert, it’s a memorable and delicious gift everyone can enjoy. Find more flavorful holiday gift ideas at omahasteaks. com. The No. 1 Gift Pick Give the sports fan in your life an authentic piece of collectible memorabilia to showcase his or her team spirit, such as this Patrick Mahomes Super Bowl LIV MVP Dynasty Banner from Winning Streak Sports – The #1 Premium Licensed Product in Sports. Created to commemorate some of the greatest teams, schools and play-
ers, these limited-edition high stich count banners, which are available framed or unframed, are made from 100% wool blend felt with iron-safe backing and include a hanging cord for easy display. Find more upscale, gift-worthy sports memorabilia at winningstreaksports.com. A Riveting Read Provide the bookworm in your life with a true thriller like “Pilate’s Cross” by J. Alexander Greenwood, a murder mystery based on a true story. A sleepy college town in the middle of nowhere is just the fresh start John Pilate needs, but he didn’t count on uncovering a deadly conspiracy. In over his head, Pilate risks it all to get to the truth in this tale exploding with action, crisp dialogue and quirky twists. Visit amazon.com to find the book. Count Down to the Holidays with Your Pet
Add more happiness to your pet’s holiday season with an option like this Merry & Bright Holiday Deck The Howls with Cookies Advent Calendar Dog Treat, which is available at PetSmart. Your dog has been good all year, so don’t forget to include him or her in the holiday countdown with an advent calendar of his or her own. Find more holiday gift ideas for your pets at petsmart. com. Give the Gift of Time Gifting your family a vacuum-and-mopin-one like the DEEBOT T8 allows you to enjoy the holidays and leave the cleaning to the robot. It provides hands-free cleaning and removes 99.26% of bacteria with its patented OZMO Mopping System. With no pre-cleaning needed and a runtime of more than three hours, it also detects obstacles with accuracy to avoid collisions and getting stuck. Learn more at ecovacs.com/us.
Page 40 • December 2020
NJStarz Carley Shimkus Hometown: Long Valley, NJ
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By Steve Sears ox News Headlines 24/7 reporter on Sirius XM Channel 115, Carley Shimkus, is 5’ 10” tall, the perfect size to be a model. And she welcomed after high school a very brief entry into the field, she appearing on billboards in Times Square and near Giants Stadium as the Party City “Gothic Angel.” “It was a lot of fun,” she laughs. “I think it’s pretty funny, and I will be forever grateful to Party City for hiring me.” Speaking of being grateful, modeling’s loss is thankfully a gain for television news. Shimkus has been with Fox News since her senior year in college and wouldn’t have it any other way. “I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else but Fox News. Let’s leave it at that. If they’ll have me, they’ll be stuck with me,” she affirms. The popular news channel may not be aware, but they’ve been stuck with her since her childhood. She explains. “Early on, when I was getting ready for school, my parents would always have Fox & Friends on in the background, and when I was eating breakfast, I was watching Fox & Friends.” She “saw” herself one day on that very screen, the person others would be watching deliver the news. “That’s why I wanted to do what I’m doing today.” Shimkus hails from Long Valley, New Jersey, land of farms and serenity, a contrast to her current Gotham life in New York City, but a perfect mirror for her sunny personality. “It was a perfect childhood,” says Shimkus, who turned 34 on November 7. “At the time – and I think this is pretty common for kids, they don’t necessarily appreciate their surroundings because it’s just so normal to them – growing up in a rural area was just something that was totally normal to me. My parents’ house is on about 100 acres of historic land, and it’s protected land. It’s just one of those things when I grew up and I moved to the city, and then I went back to my parents’ house, I was so appreciative of the area I grew up in because it’s just gorgeous. You know, there’s sort of a negative perception to New Jersey – the (New Jersey) Turnpike and the more crowded areas – but it’s called the Garden State for a reason, and that reason is Long Valley. It’s gorgeous, and I have such a special place in my heart for Morris County.” Carley’s father, Edward, is a chemist, and her mother, Zulma, a former flight attendant. “I’ve had so much help in my life, and the first two people who come to mind are my parents. They’re your heroes when you’re little, they’re the only people you know, and aside from God and him being such a big part of my life, they’re my shoulders to cry on. I would also give a big ole shout out to my grandma, who is 95 years old. She is amazing and one of the most funny, loving people I’ve ever met.” Carley has one sister, Margot, an artist. “I think she’s beautiful. We have a great relationship. She’s the older sister. And she’s going to hate me for pointing this out, but I’m about 6 inches taller than her,” she says, laughing again. She then adds, “Obviously, growing up you look up to your older sibling, and I absolutely did. She is such a talented artist, and talented in so many ways…the smarter of the two sisters. She’s just such a great person.” And then there’s her husband of 5 years, Peter Buchignani. “I look forward to Friday’s like it’s Christmas every single week, and Sundays are the tough days when you’ve got to fly back,” says Shimkus, describing her long-distance marriage to Buchignani, whom she met on her 23rd birthday. He works in Chicago, she in New York City. “He moved to Chicago in 2013, so we have been long distance for 7 years, and we’ve been together for 10, and we’ve been married for 5. Our whole marriage has been between New York and Chicago. We’re both very career minded people right now, and because my career is here and his is there, we make it work. We try to see each other every weekend, and because of this pandemic we didn’t see each other for three months (between March and Memorial Day). You have to make sacrifices like that, but that was sort of the national mood: everybody doing their part and staying at home. Honestly, I give him all the credit. He is such an agreeable person; he goes the extra mile to make sure we get to see each other every weekend. I would say it’s about a 70/30 split, with him doing a majority of the travel to here. One day it won’t be like that anymore. It’s always exciting to see each other.” Shimkus attended West Morris Central High School on the Chester and Long Valley township lines. “Academically it’s a great school,” she says, and the sporting events aren’t bad, either. “There’s nothing like a West Morris and Mendham football game. I still remember those nights and looking forward to them. There’s so much football pride at West Morris, and Lacrosse pride, and sports pride in general, so it was so much fun. Being there was a lot of fun, and going to West Morris really prepared you for college, and it eventually prepared you for the real world.” Shimkus, who was also a Student Council member, relives briefly also participating in a fun “Bagel Rebellion.” “Okay,
yes, the ‘Bagel Rebellion.’ We had free bagels for Senior Day, and it got cut short, and everybody just walked out of school, and went to the football field. My mom was volunteering that day, so I personally was like, ‘Oh my gosh, do I go with my mom? Do I go with my friends?’ And it was this big moral dilemma for me. Being 17 years old, I went with my friends. It was squared away, and I think looking back the teachers knew that we were all graduating, and it was sort of like a fun last hurrah.” “The ‘Bagel Rebellion’ will go down in the class of 2005 history.” Shimkus, who loved the subject of English in high school, and also had a great interest in politics, attended Quinnipiac University, graduating in 2009 with a B.A. in broadcast journalism, and interning during her senior year for Fox News in Washington D.C. “They really put me to work in such a positive way and taught me a lot about TV,” she recalls. She was taken on a tour of Capitol Hill and Congress, and the station also allowed her to pitch ideas which found their way to live air. It was a morale booster. “You’re learning and you’re young – and I’m still learning – and so for Fox to take an interest so seriously is a really great thing for young minds in this industry.” continued on page 41
NJ Starz: Carley Shimkus... continued from page 40 After college, she was a news producer at Fox News, and in 2012, was named associate producer with the Fox Business Network, working for Don Imus and the “Imus in the Morning” show. “Imus gave me so much,” she says fondly of the popular radio Hall of Famer. “He gave me my first shot. I remember when I first got hired as his assistant. He ended up becoming sort of like a grandfatherly figure in my life. He gave me a chance; he put me on the air. That doesn’t really happen in New York very often; you have to go to a smaller market first.” “All in all, he was somebody who I owe so much to.” Shimkus now has been at Fox for her entire career. She states, “I feel so blessed to have the career that Fox News has afforded me.” Shimkus, like most, agrees: 2020 has been a unique year. “It really does feel like we’re living through history right now. When you think about the layers of things that have happened on top of each other, with the global coronavirus pandemic, leading into social justice protests, leading into the recent hurricane that we experienced. When you think about it, President (Donald) Trump was impeached last year into
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December 2020 • Page 41
this year, and that feels like 100 years ago. So, it’s an unbelievable time to be alive, and it’s am unbelievable time to be looking at it from a news perspective where things are changing every single day. And at the same time things are changing, things have kind of slowed down. Things have been canceled, and people are more grounded and staying at home and doing things virtually. I think that a lot of the things we’re seeing unfold right now are going to affect the course of history.” Carley Shimkus relies on her faith daily. “If you see me as sort of a sure-footed person,” she says, “it’s not because of me. It’s because of God and my faith.” A prayer journal individual, she doesn’t know where she’d be in life if she couldn’t pray about her concerns or fall back on her faith. “The church I went to was Our Lady of the Mountain, and that was a huge part of my upbringing. There was a Peer Ministry program that I spent a lot of time being a part of, and we did a lot of cool things both in and out of the community.” She employs her faith during her on-air work at Fox News. “Whenever I do a segment, and I’ve worked very hard on it, I always pray, ‘I hope that this goes the best possible way.’ Without that, I don’t know where I would be.”
Page 42 • December 2020
Local Writer Shares Special Connection to President Jimmy Carter
F
By Megan Roche or then 33-year-old Bloomfield resident Steve Sears, the computer operator was slowly finding that his work was no longer fulfilling to him. Always having an interest in writing, Sears submitted many of his poems for consideration for publishing. That’s when all sorts of rejection letters came. Stopping by a bookstore after a long day at work, Sears found former President Jimmy Carter’s book of poems, Always a Reckoning and Other Poems, and picked it up. A fan of what he read, Sears penned the former president a letter, thanking him for keeping poetry alive while in the White House. After attaching some of his own poetry, Steve put the letter in an envelope, placed the stamp, and off it went to the Carter Center in Atlanta, GA. Fast forward about a month to March 1995, an envelope from the Carter Center arrived in Bloomfield. “I got the first page of my letter back. Both the second page of my letter, nor my poems were included in the response. The first page of my letter had a very kind note from him thanking me for writing to him, showing his appreciation for my liking his poems, and a PS that he liked mine,” Sears recalled. This was no official correspondence though. Sears received a personal, handwritten letter from the former president. “What’s unique about the letter is that he just handwrote a response on the first page of my letter. There was no official letter sent from the Carter Center on official letterhead. There wasn’t anything really presidential about it at all. It was like he was writing to a friend. I remember telling my mom, and my
mom said, ‘that sounds just like him.’ He was just so down to earth and that and the document itself is something I value to this day,” Sears said. That was the humble beginnings of where Steve Sears started his freelance writing career. The letter still draws inspiration for Sears; it sits right next to his writing desk in his basement in a frame. Now 58 years old, Sears has made the freelance writing career lifestyle work for him. Looking back on his longevity in the freelance world, Sears passed along some advice to others who are looking to start their own freelance careers. “Don’t let your career kill you and wear you down to the point where you don’t enjoy it anymore. You have to do something that you enjoy. No matter what you select, there are always going to be drawbacks, hard days, and peaks and valleys. But, you need to find out where the joy lies for you,” Sears said. That letter from President Carter came in 1995, and this year marks the 25th anniversary of Sears receiving the reply. Sears plans on sending a follow up letter to the Carter Center with a photo of the original letter, just to thank the former President for providing some inspiration for a very new writer. “A lot of people don’t know this, but when you write a letter to the White House, the interns respond to the letters. Our Presidents and Vice Presidents rarely see the correspondence that is sent to them, except in rare cases. This letter was very important to me, it was a huge source of encouragement, and it fueled my thirst for continuing on this writing journey.”
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