Randolph_May 2025 by My Life Publications..Maljon LLC

The Finest Quality Party Rentals Having a Home or Holiday Party? Y PLEA SI We Can Supply T R NG It All! PA Over 30 Years Experience!

RENTAL

No. 21 Vol. 5

www.mypaperonline.com • 973-809-4784 May 2025

A Mother’s Selfless Act Saves Her Son— and Spreads Awareness

By Cheryl Conway wo years ago, Daisy Vasquez, 61, of Elizabeth, did one of the noblest things a mother can do and that was to donate an organ to save her child. In March 2023, the mother of three, donated one of her kidneys to her 40-year-old son Carlos Vasquez. The surgery was conducted at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston. Without her generous donation, her son would have been put on a list with thousands of other New Jersey residents waiting about five years for a lifesaving organ transplant. With mother and son both doing well after their successful transplant, Mother’s Day is truly a huge celebration in the Vasquez family.

Mother’s Day is that time of year “to reflect on the love and care mothers provide and to express gratitude for their unwavering support; to acknowledge the incredible sacrifices and efforts mothers make in raising children. It’s a day to express love, gratitude and appreciation for all mothers.” Daisey Vasquez surely deserves a huge bouquet this Mother’s Day for the unconditional gift she gave to her son so he could thrive and live a healthy life. “It is the greatest gift you can give anyEXPIRES: 6.15.25

FREE GELATI! Buy Any Size Gelati, Get a Small Gelati FREE!

Valid only at Rita’s of Randolph, excluding cart & theme park venues. Discount applied to lowest priced item. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one offer per guest per visit. Not valid on online or delivery orders, or take home treats. Other restrictions may apply. Not for resale. @2024 RITA’S FRANCHISE COMPANY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

one,” says Vasquez. “I was able to give birth to my son twice. I kept my son from the five to seven years wait. I’d encourage anyone to get on the donor list.” Vasquez shares her story. “In 2017, Carlos began experiencing persistent headaches, allergy-like symptoms, leg swelling, and a spike in blood pressure,” explains Vasquez who works as an insurance broker. “This led to him being diagnosed with vasculitis, which attacked continued on page 6 EXPIRES: 6.15.25

EXPIRES: 6.15.25

We Deliver FREE CONSULTATIONS Fully Insured & Licensed

Te nt s - A l l S i ze s D u n k Ta n k s D a n c e F l o o rs Ba rs • Li n e n Ta b l e s • C h a i rs Fo u nt a i n s St a g e s • C h i n a Po p c o r n M a c h i n e s

For Any Occasion... • Graduations • Weddings • Holiday Parties • Backyard Events • Birthday Parties • Fundraisers • Corporate Events

www.apartypleasing.com For a Quick & Easy Price Quote, Visit Our Website

38 RT. 10W • EAST HANOVER 973-887-7264 EXPIRES: 6.15.25

& MATCH! 2 OFF 10% OFF MIX Buy 2 Get 1 FREE!

Any 6-Pack of Custard Cookie Sandwiches Valid only at Rita’s of Randolph, excluding cart & theme park venues. Discount applied to lowest priced item. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one offer per guest per visit. Not valid on online or delivery orders, or take home treats. Other restrictions may apply. Not for resale. @2024 RITA’S FRANCHISE COMPANY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Any Order Over $20 Valid only at Rita’s of Randolph, excluding cart & theme park venues. Discount applied to lowest priced item. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one offer per guest per visit. Not valid on online or delivery orders, or take home treats. Other restrictions may apply. Not for resale. @2024 RITA’S FRANCHISE COMPANY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

HEATED & AIR CONDITIONED TENTS AVAILABLE

Mix & Match Ice Quarts & Custard Pints Valid only at Rita’s of Randolph, excluding cart & theme park venues. Discount applied to lowest priced item. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one offer per guest per visit. Not valid on online or delivery orders, or take home treats. Other restrictions may apply. Not for resale. @2024 RITA’S FRANCHISE COMPANY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

EXPIRES: 4.30.25

1 OFF

Any Large Treat Valid only at Rita’s of Randolph, excluding cart & theme park venues. Discount applied to lowest priced item. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one offer per guest per visit. Not valid on online or delivery orders, or take home treats. Other restrictions may apply. Not for resale. @2024 RITA’S FRANCHISE COMPANY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

RITA’S ICE OF RANDOLPH • 1176 SUSSEX TPK • RANDOLPH • 973-584-7482

• Dentures Dr. Goldberg is a leading expert on dental implants. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant • Teeth Whitening Dentistry, which is a degree held by only 1% of dentists worldwide. Whether you require a single implant or complex •Page Crowns and• Randolph BridgesLife • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com 2 • May 2025 full-mouth rehabilitation, a free consultation with Dr. Goldberg should be considered. • Smile Makeovers General & Cosmetic Dentistry • Sedation Dentistry

Snap on Dentures

Goldberg treats entire families,include: from toddlers seniors. cleanings, check-ups,$22,800 fillings, Invisalign, to $25,000 per arch. So what is the All-On-Four So to what is an Services implant include about full dentures This articleDr. focuses on dendentures, cosmetics,Movement. and more! He his staff enjoy the they build with their patients. Do you have questions? (Hybrid Denture) mentioned overdenture? It islong-term a full den- relationships Fulland dentures. There are two types of tures move around in your ture that snaps onto dental above? It is a set of teeth Visit our website at www. dentures: partial dentures, mouth. Lower dentures are implants. The implants are that are connected to im- MorrisCountyDentist.com anchors that are placed in plants in one appointment. or contact us for a free conand complete (also known worse than uppers. Discomfort. The move- the jaw bone. The denture Unlike dentures, nothing is sultation. as full) dentures. Partial About the author: Dr. Ira dentures require you to re- ment of the denture causes has snaps that click onto the removable. Patients instantGoldberg has been performly benefit from a stronger implants. Two to four imdiscomfort. tain some of your own nat- pain or Regularly $362.00 Lack of taste, or a de- plants, and occasionally six, bite and secure teeth as op- ing implant procedures for ural teeth, while complete Regularly $125.00 withtoother 30 years. He is a Diplomate posed to the overdenture. are utilized. creasebeincombined the ability tastediscounts / full dentures require you Cannot Cannot be combined with discounts details Overdentures are Satisfaction levels are ex- other of the American Board of Implant food.Patient Specials on our website for to have none of your Refer own to New Ira Goldberg, Limited to 50 minutes Coupon must be presented, & mentioned at time of scheduling Covering of the roof of not always a perfect solution tremely high. One drawback Oral Implantology / Implant teeth, simply by definition. DDS, FAGD, DICOI Expires 2/28/22 2/28/22 3/5/6 of is Dentistry, a Diplomate (upper dentures for the issues3/5/6mentioned is the financial investment This denture focuses on the mouthExpires Ira Goldberg, DDS, FAGD, DICOI the International Congress above. Patient satisfaction higher. not only). n a p - O n - D e n t u r e s , complete / full dentures: Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist with credentials in multiple organizations. Please visit his website for a complete listing. Dental implants are not a recognized dental specialty. So what are the finan- of Oral Implantologists, and Decrease chewing power levels vary. Patients usually properly known as partial dentures. seek an implant overden- cial investments for these a Fellow of the American Note you have two jaws, or efficiency. Implant Overdentures, The understanding that ture rather than an All-On- options? Implant Overden- Academy of Implant Dentistare dentures that connect properly known as “arches.” to dental implants. Before You have an upper jaw or without implants, dentures Four or Hybrid Denture (see tures are extremely difficult ry. He performs all phases we get into the details, arch, and a lower jaw or will cause more bone loss below) due to cost: it is less to give estimates for until a of implant dentistry at his expensive than these other patient is examined and a office in Succasunna, NJ. He let’s work our way through arch. You can have a mix of over time. A conscious or uncon- options, but overdentures discussion can ensue. This lectures to dentists in the prostheses (teeth): you can definitions. is because of the great num- field of implantology. For a Dentures and bridges are have an upper full denture scious concern that a den- have limitations. As with implants in gen- ber of variables: the number free consultation, including two different things. Den- and a lower partial denture, ture can fall down or move eral, It is also critical to un- of extractions, the number a free 3-D scan (if necessary), tures come in-and-out of you can have a full denture in social situations. The need, or perceived derstand your presenting of implants, the need for please call his office at (973) your mouth, while bridges in the top and a full denture are permanent. When you in the bottom, you can have need, for denture adhesives condition (amount of bone, temporary teeth, the fi- 328-1225 or visit his website quality of bone, overall nal material choices. So a at www.MorrisCountyDengo to bed at night, dentures your own natural teeth in (glues). Implant overdentures, health, etc) plays an import- range is from $6,210 up to tist.com Dr. Goldberg is a are removed and placed the top and a partial denture back into your mouth in the in the bottom…. You get the commonly known as Snap ant role to the success and $18,000 per arch. Estimates general dentist, and also a On Dentures, improve most satisfaction of an overden- for All-On-Four are easier to Fellow of the Academy of morning. Bridges stay put: picture. provide: these range from General Dentistry. ture. Common complaints of these concerns. you cannot remove them.

New Patient Special

$149 Cleaning, Exam, Full Set of Films

New Patient Special FREE Implant, Cosmetic, or

General Dentistry Consultation

Morris County Dental Associates,LLC Experience, Compassion & Quality • Dental Implants • Cosmetic Dentistry • Porcelain Veneers • Family Dentistry • Invisalign • Dentures • Teeth Whitening • Crowns and Bridges • Smile Makeovers • Sedation Dentistry

15 Commerce Boulevard, Suite 201 • Roxbury Mall (Route 10 East) Succasunna, NJ 07876

(973) 328-1225 • www.MorrisCountyDentist.com

Dental Implants Dr. Goldberg is a leading expert on dental implants. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry, which is a degree held by only 1% of dentists worldwide. Whether you require a single implant or complex full-mouth rehabilitation, a free consultation with Dr. Goldberg should be considered.

General & Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Goldberg treats entire families, from toddlers to seniors. Services include cleanings, check-ups, fillings, Invisalign, dentures, cosmetics, and more! He and his staff enjoy the long-term relationships they build with their patients.

New Patient Special $149 Cleaning, Exam, Full Set of Films

Ira Goldberg, DDS, FAGD, DICOI

New Patient Special FREE Implant, Cosmetic, or

Regularly $362.00

General Dentistry Consultation

Cannot be combined with other discounts Refer to New Patient Specials on our website for details Coupon must be presented, & mentioned at time of scheduling Expires 6/15/25

Cannot be combined with other discounts Limited to 50 minutes Expires 6/15/25

Regularly $125.00 4

Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist with credentials in multiple organizations. Please visit his website for a complete listing. Dental implants are not a recognized dental specialty.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Randolph Life • May 2025 • Page 3

Page 4 • May 2025 • Randolph Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Stardust Pool: A Hidden Gem with a Storied Past and a Bright Future

ucked into the heart of the Butterworth Estates neighborhood, Stardust Pool first opened its gates in 1963 and quickly became a beloved summer sanctuary for families in the Randolph and Morristown communities. For over six decades, it has served as a place where memories are made—whether its kids splashing into the diving well, parents chatting poolside under the pavilion, or generations of families coming back year after year. At its peak, Stardust was the summer home for 225 bonded member families, with over 100 more on a waiting list—a testament to the close-knit community vibe and unbeatable amenities. Like many local institutions, the pool faced challenges in recent years due to COVID-19 and other economic pressures. But against the odds, Stardust has remained open, thanks to a combination of generous donations, creative fundraisers, and a deeply committed volunteer base who help open, operate, and maintain the pool each summer. As a 501(c)(7) non-profit, member-owned recreation club, Stardust is continuing to evolve while staying true to its roots. In an effort to grow membership and strengthen community ties, board members are expanding their presence both online and locally. Upcoming sign-up events will be held at the Food Truck Festival at CCM (April 26) and Arts in the Park at Veterans Park (May 17). Bonded memberships, annual memberships, and half-season passes are available. While the pool doesn’t offer daily passes due to operating costs, families are invited to visit during the Open House Weekend on June 28–29. Amenities That Make a Splash Stardust Pool features: A heated (to 80 degrees) Olympic-size short course pool

A 1.5’ kiddie pool with a fountain A diving well with both high and low springboards Clean and spacious changing rooms with showers Swim lessons offered through NJAC for both members and non-members The pool is also home to the Stardust Dolphins swim team, competing each summer in the Morris County Summer Swim League and welcoming swimmers of all levels. More Than a Pool—It’s a Summer Lifestyle At Stardust, you’re not just swimming, you’re making summer yours. Members are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, with several propane grills available on site. A covered pavilion with picnic tables, plenty of open seating, and shady spots throughout the grounds make it perfect for a full-day outing. The snack stand keeps everyone happy with treats like ice cream, candy, popcorn, soft drinks, and mac-and-cheese cups. Beyond the water, the club also offers: A small playground A gaga pit A game room An open field for games like cornhole, wiffle ball, and more And yes, personal floaties are welcome What truly sets Stardust apart from public pools is its laidback, welcoming atmosphere. Friendly families, returning lifeguards, and traditions like Sunday potluck dinners and grill-sharing make Stardust feel like an extension of home. Looking Ahead In addition to its beloved 4th of July celebration and cornhole tournaments, Stardust is exploring even more events

based on member interest—like swim-up movie nights, Sunday Funday food trucks, and college game nights. With each passing summer, the pool continues to build on its legacy while welcoming new families to the fold. Come find your summer escape. Stardust Pool is more than a place to swim—it’s a place to belong. Stardust Pool, 48 Raynor Road, Morristownship, NJ Website: http://stardustpool.com/ Stardust Swim Team Website: https://stardustswim.swimtopia.com/ Contact Us: stardustrecreation@gmail.com Social Media: Facebook Stardust Pool 2024 and Beyond Instagram: stardust_recreation

WE ARE OPEN - CALL FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW! Improves sleep Enhances mood Stimulates blood flow Shortens recovery time

Releases the body’s natural pain killers Relaxes tight muscles

1 OLD WOLFE ROAD Lakeview Plaza BUDD LAKE 973-527-7978

www.mtoliveacupuncture.com

Reduces inflammation Improves mobility

PAIN • FERTILITY • STRESS • DIGESTIVE ISSUES

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Randolph Life • May 2025 • Page 5

WELLNESS • PAIN RELIEF • PREGNANCY • PEDIATRICS No Insurance Hassle! Convenient Online Booking! • Manual Adjustments • Soft Tissue Treatments • Therapeutic Modalities • Therapeutic Exercises

New Patient Special

$59

Includes consultation, exam, initial treatment, and personalized treatment plan

Visit our website to learn more and schedule your appointment!

1 Old Wolfe Road | Budd Lake 973-975-4700 | FunctionalChiropracticNJ.com

Dr. Michael Lalama, DC

Page 6 • May 2025 • Randolph Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Mother’s Selfless Act... continued from front page his kidneys, leading to kidney failure.” Rather than putting him at risk by having him wait years for a transplant, Vasquez jumped to the front of the line. “He never went on the list,” she says. “I decided to get tested and once we found out we were a match, Carlos did not list.” Surgery can be scary, but Vasquez set any fears aside as she knew it could save her son’s life. “I felt very safe,” she says. “They do a tremendous amount of testing, and I felt very safe every step of the process. Especially since I was doing it for my son, I was more encouraged to do it.” Maintaining her own health played a vital role. “The fact that I am in excellent health,” made her an excellent match as a donor,” she says. “I had all my annu-

al checkups up to date and everything was able to move quickly. I started the process in August and in November we found out we matched. I was eager to donate for my son. I never had any fear and felt very secure and safe with the hospital.” Dr. Stuart Geffner, chairman and surgeon-in-chief of the Department of Surgery and the director of Renal and Pancreas Transplant Surgery at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, performed the transplant. An expert in the procedure, Geffner has worked with the Division of Renal and Pancreas Transplant since 1995. The Renal and Pancreas Division at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center is the sixth-largest kidney transplant program in the United States and the largest in the tristate area, he says. “CBMC is one of the country’s top centers for living do-

nations,” says Geffner. “Family members can become living donors by undergoing compatibility testing and evaluations through programs like The Living Donor Institute at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.” In 2024, the center performed 391 transplants, he adds. But with the number of individuals needing transplants, the waitlist for donors continues. According to the NJ Sharing Network, nearly 4,000 N.J. residents are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, says Geffner. Nationally, approximately 87% of people awaiting transplant are waiting for a kidney transplant, he adds. “There are far more people in need than available donor organs,” says Geffner. “The average wait time in N.J. is about five years.” continued on page 7

Consult • Design • Fabricate • Install Quality Window Treatments since 1999 Google us for reviews, pictures and offers!!

973.627.3021 melaniescustomcoverings.com

Kidz World Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics At Kidz World Pediatrics Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing comfortable care for your child’s teeth!

The dental group kids LOVE and their parents trust!

NAME: ____ Mi ke ein ____Lat er, ____ ____ DM____ ____ D, MS _ NAME: ____ Ami____ Dha____ duk____ , DM____ D

_____

NAME: ____ Denise Kit ay,____ ____ DD____ ____ S, MM ____Sc _

218 Ridgedale Ave. • Suite 203 • Cedar Knolls 973-585-6756 • kidzworlddental.com

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Randolph Life • May 2025 • Page 7

Mother’s Selfless Act... continued from page 6 Many people do not have that many years to wait before their lives are cut short. “According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, an average of 17 people die

each day in the U.S. waiting for an organ transplant,” says Geffner. More donors are always needed to help save a life. “It is very safe to be a Living Kidney Donor,” says Geffner. “It is a sacred surgery.

It is the only surgery where a person volunteers for a surgery that provides them no benefit. Because of that, donor surgery has to be as close to 100 percent safe for donor and 100 percent effective for the recipient.” In the case of Vasquez and her son, the procedure was a success. “I just went for two-year checkup and my numbers are excellent,” says Vasquez. “I feel great. I don’t even feel like I have one kidney. I don’t feel any different.” She can also breathe now that her son has got a new kidney so he can live. “Carlos is living his life to the fullest,” she says. “He is doing amazing. “He always said ‘Mom you are going to be fine; I am ok with you donating to me,’” she shares. “We felt so comfortable with all the testing. We felt very secure that we would be in a good place. I did not hesitate, and he is so grateful that I did it. He thanks me all the time.” She offers her advice to others who are considering being an organ donor? “My advice would be to trust the process, trust the physicians,” she says. “I don’t think they would put you in a com-

promising position. Every team member is looking out for the best interest of the pair. I always felt I was going to be fine. “Maybe that is your purpose in life,” she continues. “I would encourage others to become living donors. It is an experience that can transform your life. This has made me love myself more. I tell them Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center is the place to go. “I just want to say thank you to all the great doctors and the staff,” she concludes. “I can never thank them enough! I will never forget the sparkle in my son’s eyes after he received his kidney. That alone was worth everything. They did a great job. They were fantastic! Individuals interested in becoming donors can contact The Living Donor Institute at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center for more information. Its donor evaluation process includes conducting medical history reviews, tissue and blood compatibility testing between donor and recipient, and various health assessments. The donor will undergo tests to ensure they can live a healthy life with the remaining functioning kidney. Rwjbh.org/cbmckidneytransplant

Regain The Life You Love • Putting Patient Care First, Individually Owned, Family Friendly Practice • Fewer Patients Per Hour Provides the Individualized Care You Deserve • Personalized Treatment Plans to Achieve Patient’s Goals • Licensed Therapists Perform One on One, Hands On Therapy

Now Offering Vestibular Therapy and Post-Concussion Rehabilitation We are the ONLY Provider of ARPwave Technologies ARPwave accelerates healing 10 times faster, drastically decreases chronic pain and is FDA approved WE ACCEPT MOST INSURANCE PLANS

maximumhealthpt.com BUDD LAKE 197 US Highway 46 973.362.0155

LONG VALLEY 62 East Mill Road • Building A, Unit 2 908.867.0899

Page 8 • May 2025 • Randolph Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Memorial Motor Madness in Hackettstown

by Elsie Walker ith 21 classes of cars, music, food vendors, craft and other vendors, a raffle, and the smiling faces of the M&Ms gang looking down, the 29th annual Memorial Motor Madness car show offers a day of fun while benefiting 44 local charities. The show is put on by Hackettstown Rotary, and the sponsors of the show are John Johnson Auto Group, Mars Wrigley, Warren Community College, WRNJ and Edward Jones Financial Advisors. The event is being held rain or shine on Sunday, May 25th from 9am to 3pm (gates open to cars at 7:30am) on the grounds of Mars Wrigley, 800 High Street, Hackettstown. Spectator admission is $5, but children under 12 are free. No alcohol or pets are allowed. Recently, Jill DeMonti, Hackettstown Rotary Secretary and co-chair of the show and volunteer coordinator, and Norman Worth, long-time Hackettstown Rotary member, talked about the upcoming event. “Forty-four local charities benefit

from Memorial Motor Madness, such as Abilities, ARC of Warren County, seven local food pantries, Centenary Stage Company and Entrepreneurship, Family Promise, Hackettstown sports teams and scholarships, Operation Chill-Out, HMC Foundation, Alina Lodge, DASACC,” shared DeMonti. Worth added “Every penny raised goes back to the community. There are no administrative costs. “ Worth noted that the show appeals to a wide variety of people. “Motor heads, car enthusiasts, young people and families, and those who like to look at a flash from the past. So many young people and families come…kids love it,” said Worth. He added, “Just a great family day and affordable.” Twenty-one classes of cars will be on display and judged. Among them are antique cars, mustangs, corvettes, muscle cars, street rods, VW Beetles, Camaros, Firebirds and antique trucks. Trophies are given in every class. The show’s “founding fathers’ are Ed Hagaman and continued on page 9

Celebrating Our

12 Year Anniversary!

Dr. Marc Otto has joined our practice. We want to thank everyone for allowing us to care for their eye health needs since 2013!

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! 135 Route 46 East, Unit E, Paramount Plaza • Budd Lake 855-948-2020 www.visionsourcemtolive.com

CARPET • AREA RUGS • VINYL LAMINATE • WOOD • TILE • WOOLS Compare Our Prices & Save

Compare our Prices to Big Box stores and Save! Locally owned family business for over 40 Years!

“We must be doing something right”. Personalized service when you visit our store to the installation. Cannot be compared to the big box stores. To them you are just a number.

Our prices are the best around. Spring Special!

4 off

Per Sq. Yard!

Hardscaping • Landscape Planting • Lawn maintenance • Excavating

Our Already Discounted Prices Per Square Yard of Carpet, Vinyl or Laminate Flooring With this coupon. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 6/15/25

Our Own Professional Installers • Expert Binding & Repair Services

Village Mall • Route 206 South • Flanders

973-584-1350

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Randolph Life • May 2025 • Page 9

Memorial Motor Madness...

continued from page 8 Larry Middleton, who ran it for the first few years; then, about 25 years ago, the Hackettstown Rotary took on the show. The Best In Show award is named for Hagaman: the Ed Hagaman Memorial Trophy for Best in Show. Advance Vehicle Registration (ends 5/18/25) is $20 and the day of the show, it is $25. There are dash plates for the first 400 entries. Besides the cars, there are food vendors, vendors selling such items as car care products, jewelry, crafts, etc., a 50-50, and music. Music is provided by S.C.3. entertainment run by Chris Schmidt who will be there throughout the day. Worth also noted, “Every year there are a few surprises.” Also, the significance of the holiday weekend is not forgotten. “It is just a really fabulous patriotic day,” shared DeMonti.

She noted that people come wearing red, white, and blue. The star-spangled banner is played at noon and there’s a moment of silence. Then, that is followed by a “rev-up”, the cars’ loud tribute to our fallen soldiers. Worth noted the contribution of Mars Wrigley to the event and Jennifer Bongiovanni of Mars Wrigley has been coordinating that. “Mars Wrigley provides us with tremendous support including space, maintenance, and tremendous product (candy is given out at the show). But for them, we wouldn’t be able to do this,” said Worth. For more information about Memorial Motor Madness including car registration and being a vendor or sponsor, visit Hackettstown Rotary’s website at https:// www.hackettstownrotary.org

SURSATTIE S. BAKSH Assistant Vice President / SEM

P: 973-584-7351 F: 973-584-5749 sbaksh@valley.com NMLS#974393 250 Route 10 West Succasunna, NJ 07876

Valley National Bank

Page 10 • May 2025 • Randolph Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

New Branding Could Bring Tourists to this Gem of an Area

By Jaime Julia Winters esults of a survey conducted by North Star Place Branding and Marketing concluded that the Highlands region of New Jersey is often overlooked as a tourism destination but offers a “delightful surprise” for the nature and history lover away from the crowds, contrasting with New Jersey’s typical reputation. The Highlands Branding Committee hopes to market the New Jersey Highlands Region – consisting of seven counties and 88 municipalities – to those seeking a peaceful getaway filled with nature and history, less than 3 hours away from the Philadelphia and New York areas. The New Jersey Highlands Council began the branding effort initiative in spring of last year by awarding a contract to North Star to develop a unique brand and marketing plan for the region. Those who live there already appreciate the area’s assets – its watersheds supply 70% of New Jerseyans with clean drinking water, is also a hub for agriculture and rich with historic sites and recreational opportunities. But the region’s historical, cultural and natural resources are often overlooked

by outsiders. The Highlands offers a diverse landscape with both rural and densely developed areas, Highlands Council Planning Manager Maryjude Haddock-Weiler, who is leading the effort on staff, said. In a press release announcing the initiative last summer, the council noted some enticing reasons to visit – the vistas from Wyanokie High Point in Norvin Green State Forest, the Columbia Trail spanning Morris and Hunterdon counties, shopping downtown Chester and Clinton and the myriad of farms offering delicious fresh local produce, and corn mazes and haunted hayrides. Rich in assets, the Highlands is also missing a clear identity. “A regional approach to tourism enriches rural and urban communities by pooling resources and expertise. It allows for cohesive strategies to develop a compelling tourism offer, sustainable growth and local economies,” according to a presentation given in January to the Highlands Council by North Star. “Regional collaboration maximizes potential, making rural areas more attractive and viable for residents and visitors.”

Photo courtesy of Highlands Coalition of New Jersey

Other assets include Morristown National Park where Washington and the continental army spent the winter of 1779, Flemington Historic Walking Trail giving the history of the area spanning four centuries, Beneduce Wineries and Beer Trail Passport highlighting the wines and beers brewed in New Jersey, and Phillips Farm offering pick your own produce and famer’s market. Branding and a designated tourism

board will promote history, nature, agritourism, culinary destinations, festivals, and events of the area, North Star suggests. Highlands Council Executive Director Ben Spinelli said the council wants people, both inside and outside of the region, to know “this vital part of New Jersey.” He points to the Highlands Act, passed 20 years ago, as acknowledging the imcontinued on page 11

Black and Brown Dyed Mulch $32.99 Per Yard Free Delivery in Flanders Only

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Randolph Life • May 2025 • Page 11

New Branding... continued from page 10 portance of the region. In 2021, the New Jersey Highlands Economic Sustainability Plan was created citing the need to develop a Highlands brand that could be used to support region-wide growth across a variety of industries. Last summer, members of the North Star team held focus groups and conducted oneon-one interviews gathering information and opinions from key populations including residents, farmers, business owners,

VACATION RENTAL Exclusive Pocono Lakehouse PropertyWelcomes Guests to Fox Gap Summer Retreat

Vacation Rental

Location: Bangor

Price: $5,000

local officials, and more, so that the final branding product captures the essence of what makes the Highlands so unique. A survey conducted by North Star closed in November with 253 individuals completing it. Key points of the survey: Residents highly value the nature and overall peaceful environment that the Highlands offers, but that the area could benefit from more tourism. Most of the people surveyed (70%) were Imagine spending summertime at a private lakeside retreat nestled in the beautiful Pocono Mountains that you and your loved ones, including pets, can enjoy all season long. Fox Gap Summer Retreat offers a convenient getaway that fits any schedule; whether your stay is daily, weekly, or just weekends you will have the luxury of renting your own personal private apartment that is available anytime during the summer season (First day of Summer through Labor Day) and the best part you can drive there in less than an hour. Great place to entertain the kids and pets and your out of town visiting summer guests. For the price of a one week’s stay at a typical Airbnb – you can have your own private lakeside place that fits your schedule anytime during the summer season. Please go to www.foxgapretreat.com for more information and owner contact Whitney at torning@optonline.net

www.foxgapretreat.com

familiar with the region and its boundaries. Fewer people were familiar with the Highlands Act. Critics of the act primarily cited stunted economic opportunities and a perceived lack of state support / compensation for Highlands communities. Most of the respondents were from the Philadelphia area and Gloucester and Camden counties in New Jersey. The others were from New York City and Hudson County in New Jersey. In the report, North Star stated visitors to the region most often come to see friends or family. To further tourism, “local advocates [that are] good hosts and highlight the peaceful setting of the Highlands and its benefits to food production and outdoor recreation are paramount.” North Star recommended the creation of the NJ Highlands Tourism Alliance (NJHTA) with representatives from tourism

agencies across the seven Highlands counties to promote lodging, attractions, restaurants, historic sites, and outdoor recreation. It also recommends a paid tourism coordinator funded by either the council’s general budget or from contributions by NJHTA members. A final plan with implementation will be the next step and is due to be released this summer. Highlands Council Chairman Carl Richko said his hope is that a wider audience will begin to discover what makes the region “so special and why it deserves thoughtful planning and enhanced protections to safeguard its future.” The Highlands Council is a regional planning agency established in 2004 with the passage of the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act and charged with implementation of the Act. More information is available at www.nj.gov/njhighlands.

What’s happening in your school or organization? Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, graduation? Have a human interest story or something you would like to share? Email us at production@mylifepublications.com

Page 12 • May 2025 • Randolph Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Morris Catholic Girls Basketball Ranked #1 Nationally After Undefeated Season

By Megan Roche t’s been a dream season for the Morris Catholic Lady Crusaders. From Mia Pauldo’s selection to compete in the McDonald’s All American Games, going undefeated through the regular season and postseason, head coach Rahim Huland El has had it made. But, it didn’t come without hard work, dedication, and literal blood, sweat, and tears. Huland El, who played basketball at Randolph High School in the late 1980s, has always loved coaching. With stints as coach in Randolph rec ball and the AAU circuit, the head coach at Morris Catholic reached out to inquire if Rahim would be an assistant coach at the school. “I had been offered high school jobs, head coaching jobs in the area for a number of years. I turned them down because I really wanted to focus on watching my kids play and raising my family. Billy Lovett, a good friend of mine, was offered the job at Morris Catholic just before the 2018 sea-

son. He likes to say that he accepted the job and 10 minutes later he called me and told me that he needed me to be his lead assistant,” Huland El said. Huland El served as the assistant until Lovett’s resignation ahead of the 20242025 season, when he was hired as the head coach. “Our goal from day one was to make it a national program,” Huland El said. During the 2024-2025 season, Huland El helped the team amass a perfect 28-0 record. “We always seek to play the most competitive schedule that we can. We want to challenge the girls with strong opponents, but also making sure that we’re helping them along the path of earning a spot to play college basketball. My coaching philosophy is that I take it one game at a time. We knew where we wanted to end up, we had a goal of winning a national championship, and while we didn’t dwell on it, we knew that if we took care of every game, one game at a time, it would ultimately

The Morris Catholic Girls Basketball Team earned the national championship during the 2024-2025 basketball season, topping the MaxPreps national rankings at the conclusion of the season. (Photo courtesy of MaxPreps)

build where we would be able to put ourselves in the position to be a county champion, a state champion, and eventually a national champion,” Huland El said. After winning the county championship against a stacked Chatham team, the

girls began the hunt for another NJSIAA Non-Public A State title. With wins against Paramus Catholic, DePaul Catholic, and Pope John, the team’s final road block would come against Paul VI Catholic High continued on page 13

Free Estimates • Fully Insured & Licensed Owner Operated • Owner Present on All Jobs!

Your Local Tree Service NJTC768539

24 Hour Emergency Service

• Removals • Pruning • Chipping • Storm Damage • Stump Grinding • Lot Clearing/Pool Clearing • 60 & 75 Foot Bucket • 83 Foot Spider Lift • 24 Hour Emergency Service • Firewood Logs • Crane Services

973-691-4567 • www.2TreeGuys.com PO Box 524 Budd Lake, NJ

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Randolph Life • May 2025 • Page 13

Undefeated Season...

continued from page 12 School. Huland El spoke to the girls prior to the state title game about success. “I always stressed to the girls that we only define our success or failures by the people who are in the gym with us during practice. We really make sure we don’t get too caught up in reading the positive things about us and we don’t get too negatively impacted by something that is less than positive. I always tell them that it’s about controlling our controllables. You cannot control what other people write about you and their impressions of you, but you can control how hard you work in this next game. I told them that if they focused on those things consistently, the outside stuff will take care of itself,” Huland El said. The state championship trophy found its way back to the Morris Catholic trophy case after their victory against Paul VI Catholic High School. When the final tally was counted, including games against East New York Family Academy (NY), St. Frances (MD), Archbishop Mitty (CA), DME Academy (FL) and Albertus Magnus (NY), those wins ultimately led to enough points in the rankings to earn the girls the Nation-

al Championship. “We’ve been ranked in the top ten on most of the polls for most of the season. We knew that it was a possibility, but we had some really big games where there was no assumption that we were going to win,” Huland El said. After all was said and done, Coach Huland El couldn’t contain his pride in his team. “As a proud coach and someone who can recognize the amount of hard work that these ladies have put in, our seniors have been at it for four years, I was just thinking about how amazing this was going to be for them. This is something that nobody will ever be able to take away from them, the idea that they are number one in the country. I was so proud and happy for these young ladies for the achievements that they’ve accomplished,” Huland El said. After taking a few weeks off, Coach Huland El and the Morris Catholic girls basketball team is already busy gearing up for the 2025-2026 basketball season. For more information on the Morris Catholic basketball team, visit www.morriscatholic. org.

Experience the Elegance of Outdoor Living... • DESIGN & BUILD FIRM • CUSTOM POOLS & SPAS • GUNITE & FIBERGLASS POOLS • COMPLETE OUTDOOR KITCHENS • ACCENT LIGHTING DESIGN • PAVERSTONE DRIVEWAYS, PATIOS & WALKWAYS • PONDS & WATERFALLS • OLD AGED DRY OR WET LAID STONEWALLS & PATIOS • OUTDOOR FIREPLACES & FIREPITS • MAGNIFICENT LANDSCAPING

10% OFF

any 3D Design Work Exp. 6/30/25

10% OFF

Landscape Services Exp. 6/30/25

973.539.1818 • www.MagalettaDesigns.com

$1000 OFF any Patio

(1000 sq. ft. or larger)

Exp. 6/30/25

Landscape Lighting Special Buy 10 Lights Get 2

FREE ($600 Value)

Exp. 6/30/25

Page 14 • May 2025 • Randolph Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Interns Explore Science and Life Challenges Through Hands-On Lab Research

By Cheryl Conway tudent interns are learning lab skills and are conducting research on various projects including how to use sea water to make concrete and more effective nail polish remover. For the past eight years, R&D Lab in East Hanover has been welcoming three to four local high school students to work as interns to prepare them as future scientists. “Our focus is to teach them lab skills and mainly generate interest in research,” explains Hemant Joshi, founder and CEO of Tara Innovations, LLC, a pharmaceutical research and development lab in East Hanover. “We do this to give back to society. “This year, we had two pairs,” he explains. “One pair worked on cement and how we can use sea water to make concrete out of cement. This will help our environment. “The other pair worked on a nail polish remover and have developed a formula which is more effective than the currently marketed products,” he adds. Joshi started the company in 2008, has been operating out of his lab space since January 2013 and launched the high school internship program in 2016. He got the idea to start the internship from his son and neighbor’s experience. When his son attended The Academy for Math, Science, and Engineering in Rockaway from 2009 to 2013, each student was required to complete a senior-year internship. “He gained a great deal from his internship experiences at BASF and Novartis,” says Joshi. “Around the same time, my neighbor Paul Winslow started an innovative organization—Students 2 Science—which brings students from various schools into real lab environments, allowing them to conduct hands-on scientific experiments,” he adds. “My son’s positive experience and Paul’s impactful work inspired me to start an internship program at my company, Tara Innovations,” he explains. “I believe in giving back to society—especially to the next generation—and this program is one way I can do that.” Joshi works with the interns to decide on the projects that work best for them. “The goal of the internships at Tara is to teach students how products are developed, so we typically select the projects for them,”

says Joshi. “However, we do try to tailor projects to students’ interests when possible. For example, last year one student was passionate about environmental science, which led us to develop a project focused on cement. A student interning next year has expressed interest in food science, so I’m planning to design a project in that area for him.” Besides the projects, interns are learning basic lab skills. “Most students are learning lab skills for the first time when they join Tara,” explains Joshi. “Their initial projects focus on basic experiments such as weighing substances from milligrams to grams, measuring solvent density, understanding processes like mixing, and—most importantly—learning how to work safely in a lab environment. “Once they’ve developed foundational skills, we guide them through creating formulations like soaps, solutions, suspensions, creams, ointments, pastes and more,” he adds. “Some interns have made gummies and gels; others have worked on charcoal toothpaste, or explored how different oils affect chocolate. We also introduce them to complex processes like perfume-making to show the nuances of formulation science. “One interesting project involved determining the water content in leaves and fruits,” he adds. “Most of these have over 85 to 90% water content.” Meet the 2025 Interns Vrishank Malik, 17, of Mt. Olive, is a senior at The Academy for Mathematics, Science & Engineering program at Morris Hills High School in Rockaway. While calculus is his favorite subject, science is moving up on his list especially after his internship at Tara Innovations. “I originally got involved in this internship due to the 100-hour internship requirement that my school mandates,” explains Malik. “I had heard about Tara Innovations from a senior last year who had interned there last year and had a great experience. Dr. Joshi has a close connection with the internship program at my school and has taken countless interns in the past years from my school.” He and his lab partner, Raj Shah, have been working on two projects since the summer of 2024. The first one involves developing a novel solution for colonoscopy preparation and athlete electrolyte supplementation.

Pictured, from left, are Hemant Joshi, Lavanya Kundurthy (research scientist), Raj Shah, Sucheta Pansare, Vrishank Malik and Neelam Sharma (research scientist)

“During a colonoscopy, patients must drink four liters of liquid to prepare the patient for colonoscopy,” explains Malik. “Similarly, after games, athletes can lose up to 1,500-2,000 mg of sodium through sweat and must drink sugar-filled electrolyte drinks to regain it back. “To address this issue, we conducted 40 experiments to develop flavorless and tasteless gummies that effectively deliver the necessary sodium and potassium contents in

both scenarios,” he says. Their other project revolved around designing a more environmentally sustainable process for cement. Current cement production requires 500-800 gallons of water per ton of cement produced, explains Malik. Additional water is also needed during the curing process, which typically lasts seven to 14 days. “To address this issue, we developed continued on page 16

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Randolph Life • May 2025 • Page 15

SALE HOURS:

M O N D AY - F R I D AY 1 0 A M t o 7 P M S U N D AY 1 1 A M t o 5 P M

Page 16 • May 2025 • Randolph Life • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Interns Explore Science... continued from page 14 a new process of making concrete from cement,” explains Malik. “We also modified the cement formulation by adding various surfactants and salts. We tried different mixtures of sea water and distilled water and checked the hardness of concrete formed. This not only decreases the curing time of cement by several days, but also decreases the overall water usage. Addition of magnesium chloride seemed to have helped too. To present our findings to the research community, we have documented their results in a comprehensive research paper.” Malik and Shah worked under the guidance of Joshi and his employees Lavanya Kundurthy and Neelam Sharma on these projects. “The cement project continues to this day as we are working on getting our research published,” adds Malik. They met at the lab twice weekly but “Most of the work is now being conducted at home as we have already completed our experiments and are now working on presenting our findings in the paper,” he adds. They both have been enjoying their experience. “Personally, the most rewarding part of this internship was the invaluable experience I gained,” says Malik, who plans to major in environmental engineering at Cornell University. “Before last summer, I had never worked in a real laboratory or conducted hands-on research,” he adds. “This internship not only provided me with that opportunity, but

also transformed my curiosity of research into a passion— one that has the potential to impact millions of lives. That, to me, is the most rewarding part.” Raj Shah, 18, of Parsippany, adds “I’ve most enjoyed the hands-on experience and lab skills I’ve developed through this internship. From learning how to use new lab devices to helping solve real-world problems (sustainable cement production and colonoscopy preparation), I’ve learned a great deal about the research process and its impact on millions of people. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with Vrishank, Dr. Joshi, Mrs. Kundurthy, and Mrs. Sharma, and will undoubtedly continue working on new research projects in college,” continues Shah, a senior in the Magnet program for Math and Science at Morris Hills High School. Shah got involved in the internship through Joshi, who lives in his community. “I was interested in working in a chemical laboratory for the first time and had many friends who were previous interns under Dr. Joshi,” adds Joshi. “I knew I wanted handson research experience, so this internship was the perfect opportunity for me.” Shah explains his role a bit deeper. “In the gummy experiment, Vrishank and I developed 40 formulations of gummies to improve colonoscopy preparation,” describes Shah. “For the cement project, Vrishank and I studied the

process of converting cement to concrete, using water as the solvent,” he continues. Shah, who plans to major in neuroscience or biomedical engineering on the pre-medical track, explains why this experiment is important. “If we can replace even some portions of fresh water with sea water, we can help conserve fresh water on our planet,” says Shah. “We found that replacing 40% fresh water with sea water and adding magnesium chloride in the formulation retained concrete quality. This finding will help in sustainable cement production.” Two other interns, Sucheta Pansare and Sanjana Medapati, both 17 of Parsippany, worked on electrolyte gummies for athletes and nail polish remover. Pansare, a senior at the Morris County School of Technology in Denville, enjoys chemistry the most so the internship was perfect match. “I like to explore and experiment with different chemical reactions,” she shares. “I have always found chemistry highly interesting and love the spontaneity of it as well as the “surprises” that come with it.” During her junior year, while looking for a chemistry/ healthcare related internship, she heard about Tara Innovations from her school, family friends and previous biotechnology senior interns. The first project she and her partner, Medapati, worked on was centered around formulating electrolyte gummies. continued on page 18

www.brandasitaliangrill.com PARTY SPECIALS FOR ANY OCCASION! PARTY PACKAGE #1 (6-9 people)

PARTY PACKAGE #2

PARTY PACKAGE #3

PARTY PACKAGE #4

1 Large Pizza from Gourmet Section 1 Large Pizza w/any 2 Toppings, 2 Large Plain Pizzas, 3 Strombolis, (Meat or Veggie) & 40 Blazing Hot Wings

2 Large Pizzas from Gourmet Section 2 Large Pizzas w/any 2 Toppings, 2 Large Plain Pizzas, 5 Strombolis, (Meat or Veggie) & 80 Blazing Hot Wings, 3Ft Hero (1 ft. Italian, 1 ft. Turkey, 1 ft. Roast Beef)

1 H/Tray Antipasto Salad w/Balsamic Dressing, 1 H/Tray Baked Ziti, 1 H/Tray Chicken Parmigiana, Includes Italian & Focaccia Bread

(12-18 people)

1 Large Pizza w/any 2 Toppings, 1 Large Plain Pizza, 1 Stromboli, (Meat or Veggie) & 40 Blazing Hot Wings

$174.60 $107.80 -22.64 SAVINGS 21% -38.41 SAVINGS 22%

85.16+tax

136.19+tax

(24-36 people)

(8-10 people)

$357.25 -82.17 SAVINGS 23%

$131.10 -26.22 SAVINGS 20%

275.08+tax

104.88+tax

TAKE OUT • DELIVERY • CATERING WING IT!

FAMILY COMBO

MUSSEL MANIA

1 Large Cheese Pizza 1 Order Wings, 1 Order Mozzarella Sticks & 1 2-Liter Soda

1 Large Cheese Pizza Fried Calamari, Baked Ziti, House Salad w/ choice of Dressing & 1 2-Liter Soda

2 Large Cheese Pizzas 1 Large Order Mussels 1 Large Salad

$50.80 - 12.19 SAVINGS 24%

$57.60 - 14.40 SAVINGS 25%

$55.80 - 14.50 SAVINGS 26%

38.61+tax