The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST - August 2019 Issue

From the Editor Domestic violence is more prevalent than any of us would like to believe. according to the National coalition against Domestic Violence, on a typical day more than 20,000 calls are placed to hotlines nationwide. The presence of a gun in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide by 500 percent.

August 2019

This horrific reality hit our community in July, when christie solaro was shot and killed by her estranged husband. she left behind two children, eight and three years old.

kevin.pattky@TheJeffersonchronicle.com

Jefferson has rallied, as it always does, in the face of tragedy. (see the story on page 5.) The White rock community, where solaro and her children lived, went purple in support of domestic violence victims. a local business, The Feisty Pepper, chose a weekend to donate a portion of its profits to a fund for the children, and Jimmy Geez participated in a Dine to Donate event this month for the same fund.

Deputy editor/Digital copy editor: sue toth

These are just some of the ways Jefferson supports its own. I feel honored to call this town my home.

www.theJeffersonChronicle.com Founder, President, and editor-in-chief: Kevin L. Pattky, Jr.

Kevin L.

Deputy editor/Print copy editor: Lise Greene

Pattky, Jr.

senior contributing editor/consultant: Maria Weiskott contributing Writers/Photographers: Kalen Luciano, Jane Primerano, Jim Dougherty, Carol Punturieri, tony Haryn, Janet Pfeiffer, Ulla Vinkman, Christopher Bean

Design and layout: CRK Advertising, Inc.

Contents Articles: a Grand Finale: retiring Band Director..............................4

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ribbons for christie ................................................................5

advertising sales Manager: Carene Kratzel 973-663-6766

Drinks on the links ..................................................................8

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contact Information: newsroom@theJeffersonChronicle.com feedback@theJeffersonChronicle.com advertising@theJeffersonChronicle.com the Jefferson Chronicle 973-384-1799

about the DIGesT: The Jefferson chronicle was founded by lifelong resident Kevin l. Pattky, Jr. in 2016. The chronicle is Jefferson Township's only dedicated newsroom, publishing local news and information.

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New Distance regulations for lake Wake sports ........10 Passing The Torch ..................................................................12 Jefferson schools Update security systems..................16 Jefferson Fest Wows crowd ..............................................20 Wrobo run: Making strides for charity ..........................20 For What It’s Worth ....................................................................6 J-town tidbits ............................................................................14 Insights and expertise ..............................................................15 snapshots of History ................................................................18 event Calendar ..........................................................................22 In Brief ..........................................................................................23

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A Grand Finale Retiring JTHS Director of Bands Caps 17-Year Tenure at Final Concert

By Maria Weiskott (article and photos)

The energy was palpable and the excitement contagious upon entering Jefferson Township High School’s band room on May 30. This was not just another spring concert. It was a beloved teacher’s final lift of baton in the Falcon auditorium. Director of bands Rich Barrieres – affectionately called Mr. B by his students – would be retiring at the school year’s end, following a 17-year tenure in the music department.

The room reverberated with the discordant sounds of young musicians “tuning up,” laughter, and an abundance of chatter. Scattered among the students Rich Barrieres, Jefferson Township High School’s director of bands for the past 17 years, played his were enough alumni trumpet along with the band and alumni band to constitute a small members during his final spring concert. band of their own.

These Jefferson grads of varying ages had come to accompany Mr. B in his grand finale.

As the band director moved among the crowd and reached the center of the room, the noise became a low hum.

And when Mr. B lifted his arms to conduct a final scale review with each instrument section, there was rapt attention by students and alumni alike. This was to be no ordinary performance. And it wasn’t.

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Mr. B and his wife, Merry, were presented with band T-shirts and concert tickets for Mastodon, his favorite rock group.

Titled “Band Together,” the evening included separate performances by the jazz band, wind ensemble, and full symphonic band. Brianna Drwiega played a piano solo. The alumni joined the symphonic band to round out the concert by performing two selections.

Following the introduction of graduating seniors by Mr. B, who presented each with a specially engraved coffee mug, band members had a few surprises for the maestro. Expressing sincere gratitude and with obvious warmth, students presented their teacher and mentor with a scrapbook of memories highlighting his years at the high school.

The pièces de résistance, however, were T-shirts – one each for Mr. B and his wife, Merry – emblazoned with the name of the director’s favorite rock group, the heavy metal band Mastodon.

The shirts came with two tickets to a Mastodon concert.

As if not wanting the evening to end, alumni, students, and parents lingered at a reception following the concert.

In a message to his students, Mr. B wrote: “It has truly been my honor to work with you. I will hold the memories close to my heart and will use what I’ve learned from you as I continue to share the gift of music. Thank you!”

No doubt, Mr. B’s students believe he is the one who deserves most of the thanks.

JTHS alumni and former band members turned out to join the symphonic band and Barrieres in the concert’s final numbers. Among them were William Drake, a 2011 graduate, and Lauren Kulick, a 2007 graduate and currently Jefferson’s middle school band director. the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019

The high school’s former director of bands, Peter Tummillo (who served for 26 years), and 2011 alumna Angela Dench also performed with former grads.

Senior Joel Spiro teamed up with Bill Briggs, a 1979 alumnus, on tubas.

Ribbons for Christie

By Ulla Vinkman (article and photos) A purple ribbon overlooks the house on Mirror Place.

Residents cutting and preparing purple ribbons to hang around White Rock.

Friends consoling each other.

Friends, neighbors, and members of the community gathered at the White Rock Clubhouse to remember Christie Solaro.

The informal event was attended by Mayor Eric Wilsusen and council member Melissa Senatore. Angela Lamendola thanked everyone who participated, emphasizing that the best things they can do are to celebrate Christie for the beautiful soul she was and to educate others about the problem of domestic violence. Wilsusen acknowledged that “grief is difficult,” yet positive outcomes can emerge from the tragedy that took Solaro’s life.

With the goal of covering the neighborhood in purple, people got to tying purple ribbons.

After the brief speeches, participants went outside and tied purple ribbons to the fence surrounding the clubhouse, telephone poles, street signs, and trees. Their goal was to cover the White Rock Lake area in purple.

Council member Melissa Senatore and Angela Lamedola lead residents as they prepare to adorn White Rock in purple ribbons.

Local businesses offered assistance to Solaro’s two children by holding a silent auction of donated goods and services across two consecutive weekends in July at The Feisty Pepper. All funds raised from the auction benefited the children.

Angela Lamedola in discussion with mayor Eric Wilsusen at the Whire Rock Clubhouse.

Flowers and candles line the walk to Christie Solaro’s home.

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For What It’s Worth

If It’s Free, It’s for Me

By Tony Haryn

Nowadays you don’t get many things free, and if you do, there is always a catch attached to it. So, when I saw a sign that said “a free cup of iced coffee” at a local gas station, I figured why not? I needed gas and I was thirsty. Just before I pulled in, I looked at the price of the gas on the pump – $3.79 per gallon. For that price, they could have also thrown in a free slice of pizza!

That took me back to the days when gas stations did give free goodies to get you to buy their gas: glasses with a picture of the Jets or Giants helmets on them, steak knives (I still have seven of them that came from my parents’ house), copper coins with pictures of all the U.S. presidents or the history of the U.S. space program on them, Hot Wheels toy cars, antique car coins, and small Disney books. This was all in the late ’60s when gas was still around 23 cents a gallon, but it pulled in fathers to buy gas and bring something home for the kids or the wife.

Of course, the biggest free giveaway at gas stations was S&H Green Stamps. Those little green stick-on stamps were put into books that, when filled, could be redeemed for items at an S&H Green Stamp store – everything from a set of dinner plates to TV tables to an outdoor barbecue grill. The stamps were like getting money back when purchasing gas or groceries. I remember a newspaper story about a gas station robbery in which money and Green Stamps were taken. All my mom and grandmother could talk about was the theft of the Green Stamps and what the burglar might buy with them!

If you were good at it, you could talk your way into getting a few more stamps by flirting or knowing the person giving them out. My mom was usually a quiet person, but she became bright and bubbly when she got to the register in the local Grand Union. My dad would say to the gas attendant, “Hey Mac, my kid needs a new bike for Christmas,” and the attendant would give him a few sheets. I still have two wood folding chairs that we got at the S&H store in Fair Lawn.

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In the ’70s, banks offered a free toaster, CorningWare, Kodak camera, Mr. Coffee machine, or AM/FM portable radio if you opened an account. Today it’s a different world. We pay for everything and there is always a catch. “We will give you free checking if you deposit $10,000 into your account and don’t let it drop under that amount for a year and only write one check a month from the account.” Right, and I have a bridge in Brooklyn I want to give you for free! the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019

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The Beer Garden at Bowling Green Becoming Popular Venue for Locals

Riggs tells The Jefferson Chronicle. “We have hired three different open mike performers to provide entertainment for the Beer Garden,” he notes, adding that there is live music on Saturday evenings as well.

By Maria Weiskott (article and photos)

More Is More

Don’t be misled by the name of the road: School House. Sure, there are schools on the thoroughfare, including one that educated a few generations of township residents in its solitary room. But just as that schoolhouse evolved over the years – it is now Jefferson’s Senior Center – so has its neighbor across the road, Bowling Green Golf Club (53 School House Road, Oak Ridge).

But there is a lot more than music and the ambiance of nature that draws people to the Beer Garden. It is a welcoming venue for families with a variety of board games, notes director of golf Thom Bishop, who has been working at Bowling Green Golf Club since he was a teen. In addition to games like checkers and tic-tac-toe, the former pavilion boasts a bocce court. Patrons can also participate in a competitive game of cornhole or the more difficult Chippo, which is cornhole with wedges. Guests might even opt for tackling the giant Jenga game that sits in a prominent spot.

Drinks on the Links and More

The club’s most recent evolution is of the 1980s-era pavilion that served golfers as a ninth hole “pit stop” of sorts for several decades. It was a place where players could grab a quick bite and a cool beverage.

Once a venue for golf events throughout the season, the transformed pavilion is now the Beer Garden at Bowling Green.

Music and games are not the only attractions at the Beer Garden, however. There is food, and plenty of it. The menu presents a variety of favorites like wings, burgers, salads, slow-roasted beer can chicken, sandwiches, and pizza.

Currently in its second year of operation, the Beer Garden is no longer one of Jefferson’s best-kept little secrets. In fact, it is fast becoming one of the township’s popular venues, judging by the flocks that gather on many evenings to enjoy the amenities of this outdoor setting surrounded by green rolling lawns and mature shade trees.

And then there are the adult beverages, featuring a selection of New Jersey craft beers on tap. Although the Beer Garden offers a full bar that includes sodas, bottled beer, and a selection of wines, the taps are reserved for New Jersey brewed beer.

The plan, says Riggs, is to always reserve the taps for Jersey brews.

In transforming the pavilion, “we Wil Riggs, operations manager at Bowling Green Golf Club. were hopeful that we were creating The old pavilion might have gone a place where folks from Jefferson would like to come and hang through a complete 21st-century renewal, but the tradition of out with their families,” says Wil Riggs, general manager of Bowling hosting reserved special events continues. “We host all kinds of Green. “We have been very pleased with the response from those parties and events from bridal showers to graduations, birthdays who have come, and keep returning.” He represents the third to weddings,” Riggs tells The Chronicle. “It’s perfect for those generation of hands-on operators at Bowling Green Golf Club, seeking a relaxed setting, outstanding food, and service at a which has been family-owned since opening in 1967. Albert Riggs, fair price,” he boasts. the original owner of the property, had been dairy farming but There’s another tradition that hasn’t changed as the old pavilion changed course – pun intended. He joined with his brother, Jerre, evolved into the Beer Garden at Bowling Green Golf Club. The along with George and June Salmon, to develop the golf club. spot is still a ninth-hole breather for golfers as they putt, birdie, While the Beer Garden officially and bogie their way through 18 holes around the course. It’s also opened on Memorial Day last year, a welcome respite following four hours on the links with friends. this is the first summer the venue is Some customs just never change. boasting a full calendar of events through the Halloween Hayride, after which it will close for the winter.

The events calendar is posted on the Bowling Green Golf Club website for reference. Wednesday evenings are especially busy as local musicians take to the open mike while enthusiThom Bishop, director of golf astic audiences enjoy the music. at Bowling Green Golf Club.

“The goal is atmosphere music to go along with our relaxed setting,” 8

the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019

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New Distance Regulations for Wake Sports on Lake Hopatcong Discussed at Meeting

By Jane Primerano

“Algae no, boat safety yes,” said State Police Sergeant Chris Jones at the annual meeting of the Boat Regulation Commission (BRC), held at the Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club on July 10.

Jones, presiding at his last meeting as liaison between the state police and the commission, informed those in attendance that the BRC has no jurisdiction over the algal bloom plaguing the lake. But residents of the lake communities had plenty to talk about.

Some of the discussion was a continuation of last year’s concerns about wakes caused by the larger wakeboarding craft. Commission member Bruce Strigh explained that the BRC recently put out a proposal to increase from 100 feet to 200 feet the distance these boats must stay from the shoreline, as must water skiers. The proposal will be posted for public comment. If the BRC implements the new distance regulations after the mandatory comment period, the rules will begin next season.

sides. He suggested that they be prohibited from driving closer than 200 feet from any shoreline or pier on the wake side and 100 feet on the non-wake side.

Board members noted that it could be difficult to enforce two separate distances. Seth Katz, who owns marinas in Henderson Cove and Great Cove, said that wake boats are a problem in Henderson Cove, which is narrow. The boats weave back and forth and boaters have stolen the five-mile-per-hour buoys in the cove, he reported. “They actually jump the ‘no wake’ buoys.”

His customers and his own property have suffered damage, Katz said. He has not been able to get the registration numbers of the boats, and asked the state police to park in the lot in an effort to obtain them. He observed that if he calls the police, they cannot arrive in time to catch the offenders. As a result, some of his Henderson Cove customers want to move their boats to Great Cove.

As Strigh pointed out, there are places so narrow that it is inappropriate to wake surf. According to business owner Jesse Mullis, Henderson Cove is one of those places. With about 30

Resident John Kurzman pointed out that wakeboard boats are not the only ones causing wakes. He stated that the rules for water skiing require the boat to be 100 feet from shore plus the length of the rope. In addition, he said, wakesurf boats generally create a wake on only one side, adding that technology is always improving and some boats can switch

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the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019

boats, he has a hard time keeping up with the damage from wakes. Kurzman noted that Woodport Cove bans towing sports on weekends from Mason Street to Smitty’s Marina.

Resident John Deermount, who has sailed on the lake for more than 60 years, is noticing more lifts, which cost about $4,500, for getting boats away from big wakes. Other residents reminded the BRC of the annual antique boat show, suggesting that boats with wakes keep far away from the valuable wooden vessels.

Commissioner Ed Harrison observed that people on the water who are not residents may have less respect for the lake and personal property. Katz said that his customers are not transients and that Barnes Brothers Marine deals only with regular boaters as well, while Lee’s Park does not record the boats that come in. That assertion was disputed by Fred Steinbaum of the Lake Hopatcong Commission. He noted that a wave runner demasted a Hobie Cat and took off, but the police tracked the owner all the way to Staten Island.

Dave Helmer, executive director of the Morris County Park Commission, said of Lee’s Park, “We absolutely keep a record, because people have to pay to use the launch ramp.” He explained that boats coming in before regular hours pay on an honor system, but a security camera enables the park commission to know if someone does not pay. Most people do, he reported.

According to Dan McCarthy, vice chair of the Lake Hopatcong Commission, neither the commission nor the Lake Hopatcong Foundation has any enforcement power. The commission is restructuring its committees, he said, which might help with solutions; but enforcement is still up to the police. BRC members pointed out that local police have their own patrol boats and can enforce lake-related laws.

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By Jim Dougherty (photos by Ulla Vinkman, except as noted)

A photographer from the Jefferson Township Historical Society, hoping to shoot the home, told them a little about the history of the building into which the couple and their four daughters were settling.

The old Winterbottom home – maybe you know it. It’s that big white house on Cozy Lake Road. There’s an old pine tree in front with a branch growing out of it that could be a tree unto itself. There’s the beautiful wraparound porch with the life-sized carved bear out front. It’s the place where the lights are always burning: 147 Cozy Lake Road, for the rightbrained reader. It’s a house with some history, and due to one family in town, it’s a house with a warm, welcoming present (and presence) ... and every chance for a bright future.

After learning of the roots, so to speak, of the building where the six were building their nest, the Engenharts made a decision to proceed with a light touch. They agreed that the history of the home was worth preserving, but, as he put it, “we wanted to live in a home, not a museum.” After turning down numerous contractors who enthusiastically offered to tear down the house and build a beautiful new one, they found some people who would work with them on their vision. And through the years, their vision has come to light.

Erin and Rainer Engenhart closed on their home in May of 2002, and moved in just about one year later. Their first look at the house was not auspicious. Rainer fell through the porch, and again through the dining room floor. There were beams dangling from the ceiling, feasted on by termites. The furnishings, pipes, wires, fixtures, and appliances had long since been salvaged by the industrious and bold. The house was barely a shadow of its past lives or its current incarnation. To say the least, the decision to buy was motivated more by good feelings than good sense; and yet they bought, and they moved in.

Oh, about the lights (always on) – Erin just feels it makes the home look as warm and welcoming as she hopes it seems to others. They love the idea that they are connected to the town’s past and present. From the lights to the big friendly bear to sitting out on the porch and chatting with passersby, they want to be as hospitable as this town has been to them.

Passing the Torch

Erin, a native of Holmdel in Monmouth County, and Rainer, originally from a small rural village in Germany, soon began to notice odd quirks of their “new” home. The rafters in the small sitting room were made of whole trees. Much of the joining was done without use of nails or other fasteners. As they ripped off the decrepit siding, they discovered a bronze eagle with the date 1768 under its feet. And then came a knock at the door.

One day, the couple had another knock at the door; it was descendants of the original Winterbottoms.

Erin has a way of making strangers feel they have waited

The now cozy space was originally the entire house.

It has been transformed into a reading and relaxing nook, especially ideal in winter when the world is snow covered and there is a fire going.

Top: Erin showing a photo depicting what the house looked like in 1914.

Bottom: The dining room features original wood plank flooring and was the scene of Rainer and Erin’s wedding.

They exchanged vows in front of the bank of windows.

Visitors are greeted by the bear.

Rainer showing the stage the advice of Erin’s father. of construction.

far too long to visit, and the guests were quickly ushered out to the porch for a genial talk, cradled in well-worn Adirondack chairs. The visitors expressed their shock and appreciation that the Engenharts had followed their grandfather’s landscaping so closely. Pleading ignorance, the hosts quickly learned that the driveway had been lined in lilac bushes as far back as any could remember. Erin and Rainer saw no such thing when they moved in, but they did plant cultivars from a huge old bush in the back yard along the drive.

and the modern kitchen … the growing lilacs in the shade of a hundredyear-old tree: This is our town. It takes a slow hand to carry the past forward with us into the modern day. It costs time, and money, and effort – it takes compromise, and vision, and a lot of heart. But this is Jefferson at its best: a town with our roots in history, our eyes on the future ... and our lights on to welcome all comers.

Sometimes history makes itself heard if it finds affection and care enough to give it a voice. The old Winterbottom house and the Jefferson transplants with their blended family … the old rafters

s of their renovation. They started with the front porch on The porch would provide a place to relax after a busy day

Photo by Christopher Bean

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Compiled by Carol Punturieri

J-Town Tidbits Jefferson Tidbit #1 Jefferson residents can pay local real estate taxes online by e-check or credit card, and the simple process takes only a few minutes.

Visit www.jeffersontownship.net, click on How Do I (in the green strip), and scroll down to Pay My Property Taxes. Enter your property’s block and lot number and the owner’s last name; select and review the appropriate tax bill. A confirmation number and digital receipt will be provided upon completion. Print the page as proof of payment.

E-check (checking account ACH payment): Enter checking account and bank routing numbers. This service is free; however, a $20 charge will be assessed for any ACH return – for example, due to insufficient funds.

Credit card (Mastercard or Visa): Enter card number, security code, and expiration date. A fee of 2.5% will be assessed.

Payment can also be mailed to the Jefferson Township Tax Collection office (1033 Weldon Road, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849) or paid in person at the municipal building during regular business hours.

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Jefferson Tidbit #2 The Jefferson Township Health Department offers numerous services for residents at the health center (57 Minnisink Road, Lake Hopatcong). Clinics are staffed by public health nurses Dawn Dixon, supervisor, and Gail Johnson. To view the annual schedule, visit www.jeffersontownship.net and click on Departments – Health Department – Health Center Clinics.

Appointments are required by phone (973-663-0700) or email (ddixon@jeffersontownship.net or gjohnson@jeffersontownship.net).

The following clinics will be held from August through December 2019: blood pressure, foot care, women’s cancer screening, SMAC 23 blood test, and flu clinic. Other screenings that may be scheduled throughout the year include hearing, male cancer, skin cancer, mammograms, HDL, and CBC. A nominal fee is charged for some clinics.

Blood pressure readings are taken monthly for interested senior citizens at meetings of the Lakeland Senior Citizens Club (Lake Hopatcong) and Golden Age Club (Milton). Well baby services, including examinations and immunizations, are offered through the Rockaway Health Clinic. To make an appointment, call 973-663-0700.

the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019

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Living Your Best Life Ever

Why I Love Red Lights

By Janet Pfeiffer

Few people enjoy sitting at red lights and I am no exception.

I dread going to my dentist in Montclair as I must navigate 31 traffic lights on Route 23 alone. Just once was I fortunate enough to have every light green as I approached. But commuting victories are scarce, and more likely than not I will continue to encounter such nuisances. Only with great patience can I remain a responsible driver.

Have easy, one-touch access to all of the most requested services and much more!

A few weeks ago, I had a most remarkable experience. As I was driving home from my daughter’s house, I approached a red light on said highway. I noticed the license plate on the car ahead of me. It creatively delivered the following message in abbreviated form: “There is only one God and He loves all of us.”

I pulled alongside the driver to impart my agreement. As I lowered my window, the driver, a man who appeared to be of Middle Eastern descent, turned and made eye contact with me. “I love your license plate!” I stated enthusiastically. “Yes,” he replied, “God is amazing.”“Thank you and God bless you,” I responded. Just then, the light changed to green. As we both proceeded along our respective journeys, we turned toward each other to exchange one final smile and wave goodbye.

In less than 10 seconds, we shared a moment of solidarity that reminded us of who we really are: not Christians or Muslims, Americans or Mexicans, men or women. We are all children of the one same God – brothers and sisters seeking to be accepted and appreciated exactly as we are.

Fast forward two weeks: same highway, different intersection.

As my car idled at the red light, I utilized my time to sing along to the sounds on the radio. A pickup truck, occupied by three young men in plaid shirts sporting Duck Dynasty-style beards, pulled alongside me. I glanced over as I heard one call out, “What station are you listening to, ma’am?” (“Ma’am?” I thought.

“Am I really that old?”) “CBS FM,” I replied. “That’s the Police: ‘Don’t Stand So Close to Me’!” he cheerfully shouted. As the music played, we instinctively vocalized the chorus in perfect harmony with each other. “She knows that song!” he exclaimed to his buddies. “It’s one of my favorites,” I responded while extending a playful thumbs up. Our joyful moment abruptly concluded as once again red turned to green. As both vehicles drove away, their occupants reluctantly released a shared moment of camaraderie as harmonies gently faded into the expanding distance between them.

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The world is filled with so much heartache, distrust, and division.

Humanity craves unity and peace. Seemingly insignificant moments such as these can collectively have a greater effect on mankind than all the petitions, marches, laws, and legislation imposed by our leaders forcing equality. Don’t wait for others to fix what’s broken. Be an ambassador of unity and harmony.

Small acts of daily solidarity can make a huge impact globally. www.theJeffersonChronicle.com

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Jefferson Schools Update Security Systems

By Kalen Luciano

Students, faculty, and staff will be safer in Jefferson Township thanks to a universal lock system now in place at all schools.

Funded by the referendum passed last October, the system is one of the district’s recently implemented security measures.

Previously, each classroom had an individual key that worked only from the hallway side of the door; there was no way to lock the door from inside the room. During an emergency, teachers had to find their key, go out to the hallway, lock the door from the outside while holding it open, return inside, and pull the door shut.

Now, teachers can instead use a thumb lock to secure the room from the inside without venturing into a hallway where danger may be present.

In addition, each building has a single lock so that any staff member with a key has access to all rooms. The new system makes it easier for substitutes or teachers who share classrooms to access more efficiently the rooms they need to reach.

“In a real emergency situation, to have to find your key, get the right key, make sure your door is locked – it wasn’t very securityfriendly, to be honest,” superintendent Jeanne Howe told The Jefferson Chronicle.

New Alert System Money from the referendum will also fund the implementation of a system for sending private messages and alerts across each school and the district. In place of making announcements over the intercom, the new system will allow administrators and staff members to push messages and alerts out to all employees through an app alert and a banner across their screens.

The updated system has been implemented at Cozy Lake and the Middle School, and it will be phased in to remaining schools in the district.

Other Security Measures Prior to these most recent safety measures, Howe had been making changes for the past year and a half after the community pushed for increased security in reaction to Florida’s Parkland shooting in early 2018. Some improvements are as simple as putting a bin at the entrance so that visitors can drop off items for students during school hours without entering the building, notifying the main office via intercom. The reduction in the number of visitors entering a building allows office staff to be more mindful of those who do need to come in.

Another security measure that has been installed at all buildings in the school district is the Raptor management system, which scans a visitor’s ID before allowing entrance. In addition, retention vestibules – entrances with two sets of doors that hold visitors after passing through the first set until they are cleared to go through the second set – have been installed at most schools. Due to budget constraints, installation has not yet been completed at Cozy Lake, White Rock, and Jefferson Township Middle School.

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the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019

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chief James Perrier, EMTs must have more than 200 hours along with 40-50 hours of emergency room observation, and 48 continuing education units every three years for re-certification.

Monthly training drills are conducted.

Snapshots of History Celebrating 60 Years of Community Service Compiled by Carol Punturieri

The Milton First Aid Squad (MFAS), celebrating 60 years of service to the community, remains a vital organization of volunteer professionals providing free emergency medical services 24 hours a day year-round. The members – our friends, family, and neighbors – come from all walks of life.

Kelly recalls how the squad acquired its first rig. Irving Berkemeyer of New Milford donated a black 1948 Cadillac manual transmission hearse. Abby Miller, who owned an auto paint shop in Haledon, painted it bright red. Van Vliet’s Lumber Yard on Ridge Road installed a custom-designed cabinet. The interior was reupholstered and a new floor installed by Bee-Line Upholsterers in Dover. Cosmevo Medical Supplies provided advice about onboard supplies and filled the first order.

The ambulance was put into service on Memorial Day in 1959.

Four Jefferson couples became dispatchers: Jack and Rose Kelly, Alex and Rita Durosky, Larry and Mary Parr, and Emil and Dot Norman. They received calls and phoned the duty crew using four-party lines. Sometimes the dispatcher had to declare an emergency to the operator and have the party lines cleared, recalls Parr, although others could still listen in.

The 32 original Milton First Aid Squad members worked out of the firehouse on Milton Road. In the first year, they responded to about 50 calls and traveled 1,160 miles. Those numbers gradually increased as the public accepted the new concept and procedure.

John Moffat, Rita Durosky, and an unidentified MFAS member in front of Fire Company No. 1 on Milton Road by the squad’s first rig – a red hearse outfitted to serve as an ambulance. (Photo provided by Jack Kelly)

In the 1950s, Alex Durosky and Jack Kelly, members of Fire Company No. 1, were concerned about the non-existent first aid services in Milton. In an emergency, residents had to place a toll call to the Dover police, who then notified the Jefferson police.

Some residents called the state police, who then contacted the West Milford squad on Route 23. Kelly recalls that residents often drove their injured or sick in private automobiles to receive assistance.

A nonprofit first aid squad was formally organized in February 1959, says Kelly, who served as captain from 1959-60. Incorporation papers were filed by attorney Ed Smith from Lake Hopatcong.

Mayor Ray Burkett endorsed the concept and raised about $300, which was deposited in a member’s checking account because there were no banks in the area. The enthusiastic firemen who served on the squad realized that they could not provide 24/7 medical services, so membership was opened to all Milton residents. Jefferson was among the first New Jersey towns to include non-firemen as well as women, said Kelly.

Ray Hendershot, an American Red Cross instructor from Picatinny Arsenal, volunteered to train the squad. Members qualified for a Standard First Aid card after seven hours; an Advanced First Aid card required 15 hours of additional training.

Larry Parr, one of the first dispatchers, notes that they used back pressure arm lift resuscitation prior to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training consisted of 130 hours, including 10 hours of emergency room observation. A First Responder/Advanced First Aider needed 60 hours. Ongoing monthly training was provided for recertification every three years. Now, according to current squad 18

Eventually, Roberto’s Rest Home in Rockaway Township donated a 60-watt two-way radio for the rig so that riders could be in contact with police. If they were out of range, they had to find a phone. In the late 1960s, squad members used Plectron home receivers, purchased and owned by the township, to receive calls from police dispatchers. Today, Kelly points out, modern communications allow a squad constant contact with police, hospitals, and even doctors.

The MFAS fleet of three ambulances in front of the squad’s building on Milton Road in the early days. (Photo: Milton First Aid Squad website, with permission)

After 16 years within the firehouse, squad members built a 3,888-square-foot brick building with a gable roof and garages on a 4.8-acre lot purchased “at a bargain price.” They had professional supervision using local contractors as well as help from other residents, and many people donated products and services. The former lunch building behind Milton School became the MFAS’s temporary home, says Mary Parr, until the squad moved to Milton Road in 1975.

the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019

With storage space for more equipment and enclosed bays for ambulances, the squad expanded its services. The original Cadillac hearse has grown to a fleet of three state-of-the-art ambulances.

According to Perrier, the squad has about 40 active riding members, 13 cadets (high school students over the age of 16), and 10 life and active life members. Daytime coverage is challenging because so many people are in the workforce. The MFAS, like so many other volunteer first aid squads, seeks more residents eager to train as first aid responders and EMTs.

(Photo: Milton First Aid Squad website, with permission)

The squad receives annual support from the township for about half of its operating costs, says Perrier, and holds fundraisers such as bingo and a boot drive. Gone are the fundraisers of decades ago like the Country Bumpkin Ball, Drag Fashion Show, and Womanless Wedding. Other support comes from used clothing delivered to a bin on the property and monetary donations, especially during the annual fund drive. The squad has acquired uniforms, defibrillators, stretchers, oxygen, and other essentials while maintaining its vehicles and covering the building’s operating expenses.

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In addition to handling numerous emergency calls, the dedicated volunteers constantly train to keep up with medical advances; provide mutual aid to neighboring communities; conduct drives for local blood banks; offer American Red Cross CPR, first aid, and emergency response certified training to the public at a nominal cost; provide medical coverage for community activities (high school football games, graduation ceremonies, Jefferson Fest, and other major events); accompany Fire Company No. 1 on its calls; participate in the high school prom night mock accident; and collect and maintain an inventory of crutches, canes, wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive devices to loan to residents as needed.

Last year, Milton First Aid Squad members totaled more than 33,300 hours of service by answering 795 emergency calls and participated in an additional 74 community and outreach activities. Their ambulances traveled almost 24,000 miles.

Retraction Parts of the Snapshots of History column titled “Hotel Breslin Was the Gem of Lake Hopatcong” in our July 2019 magazine first appeared in Lake Hopatcong News (Memorial Day 2018, Vol. 10, No. 2, “Lake’s Resort Status Started with Hotel Breslin” History by Marty Kane, pages 34-35) and thereafter on the Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum website (“Somewhere in Time 2018”). We regret that the sources were not included within the article. www.theJeffersonChronicle.com

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Jefferson Fest Wows Crowd with Food, Fireworks, and Fun

By Ulla Vinkman (article and photos)

The Jefferson Arts Committee’s third annual Jefferson Fest took place on Saturday, July 13, on the fields behind the high school.

Daytime activities were capped off with evening food trucks, the music of Jersey Sound, and an impressive fireworks display. The weather was perfect, from blue skies and sunshine to stars at night.

Festival-goers had their choice of foods and desserts from nine trucks offering barbecue to zeppole. Families and friends filled the fields with chairs and blankets, enjoying their dinner and one another’s company. Some were even spotted reading the latest issue of The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST. Children and adults played soccer, football, and other sports.

Jersey Sound began a toe-tapping sing-along oldies concert at 7:30, keeping the crowd dancing and entertained for almost two hours. At 9:30, the lights were turned off in anticipation of the main event: a fireworks display lasting approximately 20 minutes.

The show provided an impressive display of colors, shapes, and sounds for the cheering spectators.

fireworks.

Children were excited and ready for the

Paint Your Face was on site creating works of art.

t

Jersey Sound had people up and dancing from the first song.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Jersey Sound performed a variety of songs to keep the crowd dancing and entertained.

Watch drone video of the fireworks finale at www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com.

Wrobo Run: Making Strides for Charity Annual Run/Walk Sets the Pace for Local Generosity

The 21st annual Memorial Wrobo Run, Jefferson’s 5K run/walk, will take place on Sunday, October 6, sponsored by the Junior Woman’s Club of Jefferson Township (JWCJT), a local nonprofit service organization.

The Wrobo Run was established to honor Second Lieutenant John Thomas (J.T.) Wroblewski of Oak Ridge, who joined the Marines only days after the 9/11 attacks and succumbed to injuries sustained while fighting in Ramadi, Iraq. As he strove to make a difference for his country, the JWCJT works to make a difference in the community by donating the proceeds from the event to the following organizations: Blue Star Mothers of Northern New Jersey-NJ6 (40%): A subsidiary of Blue Star Mothers of America, the group is a nonprofit military organization dedicated to providing support for active duty

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J.T. Wroblewski’s parents joined the honor guard from Gulf Company 225 of Picatinny Arsenal at the start of the race in 2017. Private Kaffie, a very patient mascot, was a standout greeting the runners. (Photo by Anthony Lawson)

the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019

Ally Lacorazza crosses the finish line with a time of 22:49.31 for best among women runners at the 2017 race.

(Photos by Anthony Lawson) The 160+ runners at the start of the 5K race in 2017.

personnel, promoting patriotism, assisting veterans’ organizations, and in other ways supporting American troops. It was started in 2017 by four moms with children in the military; some of their spouses also served or are currently serving. As friends, they support one another and wanted to do the same for other military families.

Family sponsors: During the event, Weldon Road will be lined with American flags labeled with family names at $20 per flag. Proceeds will be split between two township food pantries and the Formisano children.

Puppy Rescue Mission (40%): PRM fundraises to bring home the canine and feline “battle buddies” of service members deployed around the world. President Anna Cannan’s initial goal was to help rescue “The Lucky Seven” out of Afghanistan, where her fiancé was deployed, and several are now living stateside with their respective soldiers. When needed, PRM also finds forever homes for stray animals.

The race begins at the municipal building on Weldon Road.

To register, visit www.jeffersonjuniors.org or www.compuscore.com/wroborun.

High School Scholarship (20%): The scholarship is designated for graduating Jefferson students who display extraordinary civic dedication via volunteer efforts as well as exceptional academic achievement.

The pre-registration deadline is September 25. Onsite registration takes place 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. The race begins promptly at 9:00 a.m., rain or shine.

Sponsorships are available for businesses as well as families.

Business sponsors: Names will be printed on the race day T-shirt given to all runners. Donations must be received by September 15 for recognition at one of three levels: (1) $500+, (2) $250-$499, (3) $100-$249.

Adult pre-registration $25, onsite $30 Student (ages 5-18) pre-registration $15, onsite $20 Family (up to four people) pre-registration $80 Entry fees are nonrefundable.

To donate or obtain additional information, contact Trish at 973-945-3530 or Linda at 973-906-4010.

www.theJeffersonChronicle.com

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event calendar events are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice. lH = lake Hopatcong Or = Oak ridge

Event

Date/Time

Where

FRee Community Yoga Black Bear Fitness

Mondays 6:15 p.m. and 681 rt. 15 south saturdays 10:45 a.m., 973-663-9300 lH

Jt Farmers Market Firemen’s Field

sundays through Oct. 27 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., 973-919-5657

Gazebo Concert series: Reminisce

Fri., aug. 16, 7 p.m.

1033 Weldon rd., Or 973-697-2032 rain venue: 1010 Weldon rd., Or

Jazz and Blues Festival

sat., aug. 17, 12 - 10 p.m. rt. 124 and rt. 202 www.morristownjazzandblues.com Morristown

Peach Harvest Festival Alstede Farm

sat., aug. 17 - sun., aug. 18 www.alstedefarms.com

summer stance Car show skylands stadium

www.skylandsstadium.com/events-calendar

750 rt. 15 south lH

1 alstede Farms ln. chester

sun., aug. 18, 12 - 6 p.m.

94 championship Pl. augusta

Board Games, Beer & Bratwurst sun., aug. 18, 2 - 6 p.m.

Zeppelin Hall Biergarten www.zeppelinhall.com

88 liberty View Dr. Jersey city

Lakeland seniors Meeting American Legion #245

Tues., aug. 20, 1:45 p.m.

973-663-5060

new Jersey Uke Fest

Fri., aug. 23 - sun., aug. 25 www.folkproject.org/njukefest

Canal Day Music and Craft Festival

sat., aug. 24, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m 180 West central ave. www.canalday.org Wharton

Pupstock Festival sussex County Fairgrounds

sat., aug. 24, 12 - 6 p.m. www.pupstock.com/tickets

Golden Age Club of Milton Area

Mon., aug. 26, 1:30 p.m.

973-697-1529

Vacation Bible Camp our Lady star of the sea

Mon., aug. 26 - Fri., aug. 30 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., 973-663-0124

nJ taco Festival sussex County Fairgrounds

sat., sept. 7, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. www.njtacofestival.com

1938 orson Welles “War of the Worlds” Presentation

sat., sept. 14, 2 p.m.

Tickets: 973-697-5998

Water Lantern Festival Liberty state Park

www.waterlanternfestival.com/newyork.php

Annual Pig Roast & Beer Fest American Legion #423

sat., sept. 21, 12 - 6 p.m.

28 legion rd. $25 advance Tickets, 973-216-3554 Or

210 espanong rd. lH Whippany/ Morristown

37 Plains rd. augusta 54 school House rd.

Or 204 espanong rd. lH 37 Plains rd. augusta

5635 Berkshire Valley rd.

Or

sat., sept. 14, 4 - 9:30 p.m.

1 audrey Zapp Dr. Jersey city

25th Annual Morristown sun., sept. 29, 12 - 5 p.m.

14 Maple ave.

Festival on the Green www.morristown-nj.org/event/morristown-festival-on-the-green-2 Morristown 21st Annual Wrobo 5K Run/Walk

sun., Oct. 6, 7:30 a.m.

1033 Weldon rd. register: www.compuscore.com/wroborun Or

LHF Lake Loop 2019 Bike/Run/Paddle

sun., Oct. 13, 7 a.m. register: www.lakeloop.org

260 lakeside Blvd.

Hopatcong

see the website to view all events and to post your events online ... FRee!*

www.theJeffersonChronicle.com/events *Selected events will be printed in the DIGEST.

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Missed an issue? View archived DIGEST issues: www.theJeffersonChronicle.com/digestmagazine the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019

In Brief Town Council Votes to Split Township Attorney Position

By Kalen Luciano

The former position of township attorney has been separated into three areas of responsibility. At its meeting on June 26, the Jefferson Town Council made the following six-month appointments, effective July 1, 2019: Labor attorney:

Cleary Giacobbe Alfieri Jacobs, LLC

Tax appeal attorney:

Lawrence Cohen

Attorney in charge of Laddey Clark & Ryan Open Public Records Act requests and other legal issues: The recommendation to split the position was made by Mayor Eric Wilsusen, who had spent months reviewing and consulting with his staff on ways to improve the delivery of services to residents. The appointments are renewable after the initial six-month period.

Council members thanked Cohen, who served for many years as the township’s only attorney, for his excellent service. In return, he expressed appreciation for continuing to be a part of Jefferson’s “rich history.”

Colin White, two-time Stanley Cup champion with the New Jersey Devils, meets with both Squirt and Peewee teams at the team banquet. (Photo: Tyler Delp)

www.theJeffersonChronicle.com

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the Jefferson Chronicle DIGest • August 2019