The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST - December 2019 Issue - First Direct Mailed Issue

December 2019 • Volume 1, Issue 11

WHERE WE GATHER www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com Electric Slide • Veterans Honored • Lake Funding • Wellness Fair • Gazebo History • David Kerwien Jr. • Bulletin • Events • In Brief

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From the Editor So, who knew it could be so warm and cozy and comfy in a mailbox? We are finding that out right now, since we’ve been hanging out in all of your mailboxes this month! Seriously, we hope you’re enjoying this issue of The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST that you could just grab right out of the box and read in the comfort of your own home!

December 2019 www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com Founder, President, and Editor-in-Chief:

Kevin L. Pattky, Jr. kevin.pattky@TheJeffersonChronicle.com

Vice President and Director of Business Development:

Christopher Bean christopher.bean@TheJeffersonChronicle.com

Executive Editor:

Sue Toth sue.toth@TheJeffersonChronicle.com

Senior Contributing Editors:

We’re very proud of this issue, of course, because it is our first mailed piece, but we are also thrilled to bring you the stories inside. We’re particularly proud of not one, but two stories about the Jefferson Township gazebo, a beautiful gathering place in town. Read Maria Weiskott’s piece about a painting of the gazebo done by Sue Miller and a poem about Jefferson by Sue’s husband Vern Miller. Both are being gifted to the township. In addition, Carol Punturieri writes about the gazebo’s history for this issue.

Do you have ideas for people, organizations, or events you’d like us to write about? Anything about The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST you want us to know? Feel free to reach out to us at newsroom@ TheJeffersonChronicle.com and we’ll check it out!

Thanks for reading! Happy Holidays to all!

Maria Weiskott and Lise Greene

Sue Toth

Contributors:

Jane Primerano, April Leaver, Jim Dougherty, Carol Punturieri, Tony Haryn, Janet Pfeiffer, Jimmy Seretis, Ulla Vinkman, Christopher Bean Design and Production:

Get to Know Us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Spencer Printing, Inc.

Town Council Does the Electric Slide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

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Jefferson Honors Vets with Moving Ceremony at Township Memorial . . 11

Advertising Sales Representatives:

Governor Murphy Promises Funding to Lake Hopatcong . . . 14

Mia Morella, Larry Platoni, Michele Leppard, and Aaron Tollin

Where We Gather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

973-384-1799 or

Wellness Fair Focuses on Mental Health and Addiction . . . . 20

advertising@TheJeffersonChronicle.com

Jefferson Sophomore Doesn’t Let Tourette’s Keep Her Down . . 20

Submit Content: (Story ideas, press releases, and photos) newsroom@TheJeffersonChronicle.com

Jefferson Native Tells Her Story of Addiction . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

About the DIGEST: The LGBTQ-, veteran-, and woman-owned Jefferson Chronicle was founded by lifelong resident Kevin L. Pattky, Jr. in 2016. The Chronicle is the township’s only dedicated source for news and local information.

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST is published monthly by The Jefferson Chronicle, LLC. 100 Enterprise Dr., Suite 301, Rockaway, NJ 07866

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Articles:

CONTENTS

Anything Food . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Gazebo Dream Became Reality with Teamwork and Vision . . 24 A Tribe in Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 For What It’s Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 J-Town Tidbits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Insights and Expertise: Living Your Best Life Ever . . . . . . . . . 18

©2019 by The Jefferson Chronicle, LLC. All rights reserved.

Community Bulletin Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the editor-in-chief.

Event Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

PLEASE RECYCLE

In Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

The Chronicle DIGEST • December Cover Photo: A painting by Sue Miller, ofJefferson the Jefferson Township gazebo, located2019 on the municipal grounds. (Photo by Ulla Vinkman)

Get to Know Us

What do I do in my spare time?

Kevin L. Pattky, Jr., Founder, President, and Editor-in-Chief Background

My background is not that of your typical traditional news media publisher. Throughout my high school career, I was very interested in video and television production, as well as mass media studies. Upon graduating, I tried several formats of work: UPS package Kevin, mother Michele, and handling, construction, and partner Ivan. overnight stocking, amongst landscaping work as a weekend gig. When doing my construction job, I got accepted to the Connecticut School of Broadcasting in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ. I quickly left my job to focus on my studies, of which I had a deep understanding.

Upon graduating from CSB, I earned a certificate in Radio, Television, and New Media. I’ve always been a sponge, absorbing and doing my own research on whatever I may set my mind on.

Spare time? I’ll have to ask my editor (or Google) for the definition of that. Lately I don’t have too much free time.

When I do, I enjoy relaxing at home, but I also enjoy leaving the cozy confines of my house and spending time with my family, friends, or co-workers. I enjoy taking my partner, Ivan, out to experience events he never thought he would, going to places of great eating, as well as just sitting at Dunkin’ with my mom, Michele, and enjoying an extra large coffee, extra light and extra sweet. (You’ll see me there often, and I’m sure if you know me, you have!)

Family background

I currently live in Jefferson Township with my mother Michele, father Kevin, and partner of seven years, Ivan. We met on match.com and clicked instantly!

Christopher Bean, Vice President and Director of Business Development

Why do I do this?

I’m an entrepreneur at heart. I have my mind set on being my own boss and having a hardworking and dedicated team with the same thought process as I. When the AIM Jefferson (and other like outlets) dwindled/shut down, I immediately said to myself, we can’t lose the only true dedicated local hard news and information outlet Jefferson Township has. It was available online and physically mailed to residents — nothing compared to it. I quickly rang the only editor I personally knew at the time, Sue Toth, formerly of Jefferson Patch, and we started The Jefferson Chronicle online. Since then, we’ve grown digitally, and in the last year, we added our monthly print magazine (The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST). I truly believe in local news, both digital and print avenues. I believe both avenues are essential to a total reach trifecta. I love our community, and I’m proud to have a great team on their side to produce what we do every day, every month, for the last three years.

What do I love most about Jefferson?

That’s hard to narrow down. I’ve lived here my entire life — from birth! Jefferson is home to me. It may have been a rough time, in school, with the cliques and gossip, but you grow, and you get over the drama of youth. When you are experiencing difficulties, Jefferson helps you, whether it’s a local business or your neighbors, or both! Jefferson has heart, the epicenter of what a community is meant to be. What a true pleasure, being a lifelong resident of this great township.

Christopher Bean and his wife, Veronica Bean in Bryce Canyon, Utah, with the Bruce Canyon Natural Bridge formation in the backdrop.

Background

I have 38 years’ experience in photography and videography with 30 years in commercial photography working with several news periodicals and doing food, product, and landscape photography, as well. This eventually led me to starting Christopher Bean Photography, a full service photographic and videographic company. I then got my FAA Drone License and used that tool to secure freelance jobs with several news outlets in NJ. That led me to begin working with The Jefferson Chronicle and Kevin. I have also owned and managed a restaurant and an electric scooter business. I also have college background in Business Management and Hospitality Management. I worked for Choice Hotels as a regional manager from 1998-2002.

Why do I do this?

When I first spoke to Kevin about coming on board as a Contributing Photojournalist, I really checked out the online presence and print magazine. I saw the responses that the articles had garnered online and heard the responses the

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

Continued on page 6

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magazine was getting around town, which led me to really believe in what Kevin was trying to accomplish. I have really grown to think of Jefferson Township as home over my nearly 20 years here and have become very invested in what happens with the community. I am involved in local organizations, such as The American Legion. I want to see the community, its businesses, and its members flourish in the future.

Sue Toth, Executive Editor

What do I love most about Jefferson?

I love everyone that tries to make Jefferson a place that is welcoming to all. Most of all, though, I really love the natural surroundings of Jefferson and the fact that we have some of the most beautiful areas in New Jersey right in our own backyards!

What do I do in my spare time?

I don’t really have much spare time at all. I also am the Technical Officer for the American Legion Post 423 in Oak Ridge, and I handle all of the I.T. issues that the Legion may have, which cuts into any time I am not working on TJC business.

Family

I am married to my wonderful wife, Veronica for almost 13 years. We met when I was traveling all over the east coast for Choice Hotels back in 1998.

CHRISTOPHER BEAN PHOTOGRAPHY Photographer

Videographer

FAA Licensed Drone Pilot

The Toth family (left to right): Shannon, Bob, Robby, Sue and Kara celebrate Robby’s graduation from Seton Hall University with lunch at the Windlass.

Background

Words are my life. My background is in writing and editing, and I’ve either been doing the writing and editing or teaching it for the past 30 plus years. In addition to my work at The Jefferson Chronicle, I teach journalism classes at Bergen Community College, where I also advise the student-run newspaper, The Torch.

Why do I do this?

I do this work for The Jefferson Chronicle because I care deeply about hyperlocal journalism. I believe residents who pay taxes to a town have not just the right, but the need to know what is going on with the government, schools, etc. I want the residents of Jefferson to know they have a place to come to find out anything and everything they could possibly need to know about goings-on in town.

What do I love most about Jefferson?

Photography

Videography Drone Pilot-FAA Licensed

Jefferson has been a great place to raise a family, which was very important to me when I moved here 17 years ago with three young children. Even though my kids are grown now, I have come to love all the friends I’ve made here. I also love how beautiful our town is. And while this occurrence may startle some people, I love seeing a family of bears rumble through my back yard!

What do I do in my spare time?

Phone: 973-919-4662 Email: cbeanphotos@me.com http: www.cbeanphotos.com

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@cbeanphotos

I typically don’t have a lot of spare time, but when I do, you’ll find me rooting for the New York Mets and the New York Jets, my two favorite teams. I also love to read, listen to 80s rock music, and hang out with my family—preferably on a beach!

Family

Speaking of family, mine consists of my husband of 28 years, Bob, and three kids: Shannon, 25, Robby, 23, and Kara, 21.

They truly are my heart.

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

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For What It’s Worth Comfort Food

By Tony Haryn My friend Phil sent me the picture you see above to tease me. His mom takes good care of him whenever he visits and he gets a taste of good old-fashioned comfort food – which, in his case, is stuffed cabbage with all the trimmings.

Comfort food is defined as food that gives emotional comfort to the one eating it. Most people relate it to what mom used to cook for them. My mom had a handwritten sign on her refrigerator that read,“What’s the food I like the most … toast!” That’s what she went to when she had a bad day, was not feeling right, or just needed to think about something. If I had a bad day at work, a chocolate milkshake on the way home would help me change my attitude.

I wanted to get an idea about what other people considered their comfort food, so I went to my hometown website, Passaic – Beyond the Memories, and posted the question. Within 12 hours, I got 320 responses (more than 10% of the membership) and was very much surprised at some of the answers.

Here are the top five comfort foods:

1. Pizza 2. Hot dogs with sauerkraut, cooked red onions, or some kind of chili sauce 3. Hamburgers with cheese or bacon (or both) and french fries 4. Tie: Chinese food/pastrami on rye with kosher mustard, a kosher pickle, and coleslaw 5. Hot bagels Fried chicken, pierogis, apple turnovers, any hot bread with butter, and kielbasa rounded out the top 10. Potato salad from a deli was mentioned a lot … but as a comfort food?

Surprisingly, the foods many turn to for comfort were not high on the list – like meatloaf and mashed potatoes with gravy, pot roast, BLT sandwich, chicken soup, grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup, ice cream, ribs, mac and cheese, corned beef, pork chops, lasagna, and spaghetti. Some people listed vodka, tequila, and sangria. I guess if that’s where your head is at, it’s your comfort food. Then there were some strange replies like stuffed lobster, smoked white fish, and shrimp and grits.

Consider that answers may vary depending on what part of the state or ethnic neighborhood you were raised in.

Well, if I now have you drooling, running to your refrigerator, or hopping in the car to travel 50 miles down the road to Rutt’s Hut or the Hot Grill to grab a hot dog, I have done my job!

Good eating.

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The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

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Town Council Does the Electric Slide

By April Leaver Jefferson Township’s council crafted the bright idea to bring electricity rate savings to Jefferson residents. An ordinance passed at the November 13 meeting facilitates the township joining the Morris Area Energy Cooperative (MAEC).

The MAEC is a government energy aggregation (GEA) that offers power supply rate reduction and consumer protections that citizens cannot obtain on their own. By joining a GEA, the municipality combines the usage of all residents, commercial, and governmental properties to receive a lower energy supply price than what the local distribution company currently charges.

Mayor Eric Wilsusen stated he heard about this program from Mayor Michael Stanzilis of Mount Arlington, who said residents praise the program. Council President Debi Merz said the mayor of Mine Hill also gave the program the thumbs up. According to the MAEC website, nine other municipalities are also utilizing the program.

How Rates are Set Today

Stacia Scaduto, a representative for energy consultants Concord Energy Services and Commercial Utility Consultants, presented information to the town council at the June 12 meeting. She explained that both of these companies are energy consultants, not suppliers, that promote community energy aggregation programs to municipalities.

Scaduto explained that Jersey Central Power & Light ( JCP&L) does not supply the energy or set the supply rate that appears on a resident’s bill. The price is set by the Board of Public Utilities in Trenton after a yearly Basic Generation Service (BGS) auction with electric distribution companies.

There is an auction, a supplier/price is chosen, and everyone in that particular utility region receives that price.

What Changes and is There a Downside?

Scaduto states that the residents will not likely notice any changes, other than a lower electric bill. JCP&L will continue to provide maintenance, respond to outages, read meters, and provide billing services.

There are no termination fees; residents are free to opt in and out at any time without penalty. There are no teaser prices; the supply rate will always be below or equal to the default rate of the state. There are no fees to participate in the program. Residents will continue to receive one bill, and budget billing is available.

Scaduto explained that most residents are automatically opted in to the program, but are free to opt out at any time without penalty. However, those already enrolled with a third-party supplier are not automatically enrolled and must call or opt in via the website to be provided future literature. The MAEC states the suppliers are not able to process the net metering portion of the solar credits, and solar customers are recommended to opt out of the program to avoid losing credits. Community outreach will be performed through mailings and meetings with civic groups such as senior citizen centers. Mailings will include the opportunity to opt out of the program.

Council vice president Kim Finnegan told The Jefferson Chronicle, “Any way we can help our residents and township save is a good thing.”

Look for notices in your mailbox soon. Although Jefferson’s meeting dates have not yet been announced, the MAEC will hold an informational meeting on January 14 at 6 p.m. at 10 Robert Street, Wharton to learn more about their program.

What’s the Difference with a GEA?

While residents currently have the option to choose their energy supplier, those choices are often accompanied by caveats such as termination fees, penalty fees, and escalation charges. Scaduto acknowledges that some people may have gotten burned in the past by other private programs but emphasizes that this government program has no fees or penalties.

Scaduto said the difference is that the state only has an auction once per year, but a GEA can hold multiple auctions to make sure their price stays competitive. The average yearly savings is 10-12 percent over JPC&L.

The current MAEC program rate is $0.0886/KWh through October 2020, compared with the JCP&L rate of $0.09143/ KWh. 10

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

Jefferson Honors Vets with Moving Ceremony at Township Memorial

By Jane Primerano (photos by Christopher Bean) It was a cold but sunny day at the Veterans’ Memorial at the Jefferson Township Municipal Building site on Saturday, November 9, when the township and its veterans’ organizations presented the annual Veterans Day Remembrance. This year, the remembrance also celebrated the 100th birthday of the American Legion Auxiliary.

The Auxiliary from Milton Post 423 donated a Kwanzan cherry tree that was planted at the memorial park. Andrea Drzyzga, president of the Auxiliary Unit 423, presided at the ceremony with President Ellie Zaleski of the Morris County American Legion Auxiliary and President Ruby Cramer of the New Jersey Department Auxiliary.

Drzyzga noted the mission of the auxiliary is to advocate for veterans and mentor youth. Cramer spoke of the reasons the American Legion, then only a year old, founded the Auxiliary in 1919. “They needed assistance helping return GIs to a country that wanted to forget the war,” she said. “Already home were the widows and orphans, and the government was slow to provide compensation.” Cramer explained the Legion

turned to their wives, mothers, sisters, and daughters to do “the same mission they always had, to take care of their families.”

As it does annually, the ceremony also honored the departed members from each post. From American Legion Post 245 were Ralph Spinelli and the last World War II veteran member, George Esso; from American Legion Post 423 was Donald Robinson, and from VFW Post 564 was Robert Baker and Robinson, who was a member of both organizations.

Vietnam Veteran Stephen Bley was honored for 50 years as a member of Post 245.

At the beginning of the ceremony, the commanders of the Legion and VFW posts raised the American flag and laid wreathes. Former Jefferson Township Mayor Fran Slayton led those assembled in the flag salute and the Jefferson Township High School chorus sang the National Anthem. Later in the ceremony, the chorus sang the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” and “God Bless America.” “Taps” was played by Matt Cinchi.

Township Mayor Eric Wilsusen introduced the guest speakers, Col. Will McDonough, project manager at USARDEC at Picatinny Arsenal and Commander Robert Newell from the NJ Department of the American Legion. McDonough is a Vietnam-era veteran. He spoke about the time he served and pointed out during a time of all-volunteer service there is a smaller pool of military, resulting in constant re-deployments.

The ceremony was coordinated by Councilman Jay Dunham, a member of Post 423.

Top Left to Right: Legion Members from across NJ. JTHS Choir fighting the cold to belt out God Bless America during the Veterans Day Celebration. Bottom Left to Right: Colonel McDonough and Mayor Slayton preparing for The Pledge of Allegiance. Honorable Jay Dunham and Mayor Eric Wilsusen giving the benediction. Colonel McDonough from Picatinny Arsenal was the guest speaker for the observance. Legionnaires Jay Dunham, Cmdr. Robert Newell and Colonel McDonough carry and present ceremonial wreaths during the celebration. www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

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J-Town Tidbits

By Carol Punturieri

Jefferson Tidbit #1 Men and women who are victims of domestic, dating, and partner violence can find assistance that provides safety, support, and solutions.

Numerous agencies offer a safe place for victims to live, legal advocacy services, and counseling services for adults as well as for children traumatized by witnessing violent behavior in their homes. Solutions to promote healthy relationships are also available, and all services are private and confidential regardless of the circumstances.

Police departments, including Jefferson Township, offer crisis response teams; and according to their policy on domestic violence, the goal is to break the chain of violence “with a zero-tolerance approach and to teach children how to deter domestic violence.”

RADIANT FLOOR HEAT!!

When a call is made to the Jefferson police by a domestic violence victim, the police first determine who the victim is and who the accused is. A report will be made if the dispute does not involve any injuries, and the officer or the victim can sign a complaint. Otherwise, if there are signs of injury, by NJ law, the attacker must be arrested and charged. The victim will be given the opportunity to apply for a temporary restraining order, and details for incidents occurring during non-business hours and holidays versus during business hours are available at http://www.jeffersonpolice.com under the Domestic Violence section. In cases where the victim is frightened to remain in the home, arrangements can be made by the police with agencies such as the Jersey Battered Women’s Service for alternative safe housing for the victim and any children involved. JBWS’s 24-hour hotline is 1-877-782-2873 and the website is www.jbws.org.

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Hikers can enjoy the magnificent views of near wilderness by accessing the Headley Overlook at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation on Weldon Road in Jefferson Township. Considered the highest point in the Morris County Park Commission’s system at 1,280 feet in elevation, hikers can enjoy a cliff top view of Lake Hopatcong beyond a large stretch of trees. There are numerous access trails ranging from a super short 15-minute walk off Weldon Road to a 7.5-mile hike starting at Saffin Rock Rill further up Weldon Road. A medium beginner 3.8mile hike following the Pine Swamp loop passes the highest point in Morris County which is 1,395 feet or 425 meters above sea level. For specifics on the several trails to access the overlook go to https://www. njhiking.com/nj-hikes-mahlon-dickerson-headley-overlook/.

Mahlon Dickerson Reservation offers 24.3 miles of multi-use trails for both the novice and experienced adventure seekers. In addition to hiking, mountain bikers can travel along blazed biking trails. Other activities include horseback riding, platform tent camping, RV electric and water sites, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and softball. Input 955 Weldon Road, Lake Hopatcong, NJ into a GPS for directions.

This brings you to the campground office open April 1 to November 30, Wednesday to Friday from 1 to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. You will find a detailed printed trail map in the literature rack of the large wooden signboard. Or go to https://www.morrisparks. net/assets/images/PDFs/Park_Maps/MDRmap.pdf to find the same map.

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

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Governor Murphy Promises Funding to Lake Hopatcong

A Promise for the Park

By Jane Primerano (article and photo)

Hopatcong Mayor Michael Francis said he will see to it that Crescent Cove is sewered. He said that section of the lake always shows the worst test results, but he wants it to become a model for improvement. State Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) municipal representative Kerry KirkPflug said there is money in the state Infrastructure Bank for hookups.

Saying, “The Lord helps those who help themselves,” Murphy promised to honor a state commitment to connect Hopatcong State Park to the sewer line on Lakeside Boulevard in Roxbury Township.

Other portions of the $13.5 million are $2.5 million in HAB/ Lake Management Grants and $1 million in Watershed Planning Grants. Murphy conceded the Highlands designation of most of Jefferson and other lake areas makes this section of the state unique. “We must keep that in the back of our minds,” he said. He also said the money will not be used for studies, but action.

Governor Phil Murphy acknowledges some of the state officials during his meeting at Lake Hopatcong with Congressman Josh Gottheimer and State Senator Steve Oroho looking on.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy promised $13.5 million in new state and federal money to help guard against and mitigate harmful algal blooms like the one that effectively closed Lake Hopatcong and other state-owned lakes at a meeting he held at the Lake Hopatcong Station on November 18.

The three members of Congress who attended the meeting, Josh Gottheimer (D-5), Mikie Sherrill (D-11) and Tom Malinowski (D-7) all said federal money would be available and they would fight for more.

“We are making sure the money comes back to New Jersey,” Malinowski said. He noted, “We are facing severe pressure from the federal administration of the EPA,” adding the House rejected the last round of cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency.

State Senator Anthony Bucco (R-25) called the numbers encouraging but pressed Murphy for an exact amount that would be coming to Lake Hopatcong and Lake Musconetcong. The governor didn’t answer that.

He did break down the money. The bulk would be $10 million in Principal Forgiveness Grants for major infrastructure projects. Murphy cited the need to convert septic systems to public sewers in Jefferson Township and parts of Hopatcong Borough.

The 2002 sewer study for Jefferson posited the costs to sewer that township at $65 million in those days’ dollars. Mount Arlington Mayor Michael Stanzilis estimated about $100 million in today’s dollars.

14

DeCroce Champions Mayors

Although the mayors of the four lake municipalities were invited to the meeting, they were not asked to speak until the private session was ending when Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce (R-26) insisted, and Jefferson Mayor Eric Wilsusen reminded the governor there is a state-sanctioned body that manages Lake Hopatcong. He urged Murphy to make sure the Lake Hopatcong Commission continues to receive funding, including $500,000 a season for weed control.

Money wasn’t the only topic Murphy addressed. He said the state DEP will work to establish mitigation strategies and emphasized the importance of science to the lake’s issues.

Murphy also promised to work on communication with the lake communities. He suggested setting up a graduated system of warnings, similar to hurricane alerts, rather than just saying “the lake is closed.” Lake businesses strenuously objected to misleading electronic signs on Route 80 during the Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) last summer. He also promised the DEP would schedule Regional HAB Summits over the winter.

Kirk-Pflug said probably three would be held.

Reaction to the meeting was mixed. Marty Kane of the Lake Hopatcong Foundation said he was “Very hopeful. I am very impressed the Governor came. He knows the lake is an important resource.”

In a press release, the Lake Hopatcong Foundation wrote: “We were encouraged that Gov. Murphy responded to Monday’s feedback by suggesting monthly working meetings for the principal players in the room to check in on the progress of these initiatives and keep them moving quickly . . .We are particularly heartened by the commitment of our legislative delegation to pursue meaningful funding for the Lake Hopatcong Commission so that it can fulfill its intended mission in the management of our lake.”

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

Same Old Song

Bucco said, “The devil is in the details. We’ve heard this song before and the money ends up going somewhere else.�

He said working with the stakeholders is critical. Senator Steve Oroho (R-24) called the meeting a good first step.

He said he would fight for the $13.5 million to come to Lake Hopatcong, Lake Musconetcong, Cranberry Lake, and Swartzwood Lake.

Stanziils said it is really important to complete sewers around the lake so the potential for loan forgiveness needs to be discussed more thoroughly. Wilsusen said he is concerned there is not a provision for direct funding to the lake management agencies.

Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club, issued a press release within a half hour of the close of Murphy’s meeting calling the plan “too little, too late.�

“What Governor Murphy announced today is not going to do anything to make our lakes better for next summer,�

Tittel wrote, saying Murphy should have been working on the problem from the beginning of his administration. “What Governor Murphy did today was more about having a press strategy than a real strategy,� Tittel wrote.

Murphy ended his meeting by promising “to use my bullhorn to sing the praises of our lakes and lake communities.�

He also promised to visit the lake around Memorial Day Weekend 2020.

Make sure to book your holiday party catering early!

2020

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Where We Gather

Matched Perfection

Celebration of Gazebo in Words and with Art to Be Keepsake for the Township

By Maria Weiskott (photos by Ulla Vinkman) We have always gathered.

Vern Miller’s ode to the township reflects the Millers’ deep affection for Jefferson as a community and as a beautiful place to live. “Jefferson is a very special community,” he says.

“We moved to Lake Shawnee 35 years ago and have met many wonderful neighbors. We constantly see community members reaching out to help others in need,” he adds.

It might have been in the backyard of a friend whose mom always had the best chocolate chip cookies at the ready. Or, it might have been in the smallest of kitchens where party guests were drawn, following mouth-watering aromas wafting through the house.

The Millers note that while Jefferson has grown considerably since they moved to the community, it still maintains “a sense of being a more rural area. It’s not isolated, but it’s peaceful,” they agree. The couple says they find “Jefferson really suits us personally, professionally, and creatively.”

In Jefferson, that place is The Gazebo. About halfway between the wide expanse ranging from Lake Hopatcong to Milton – give or take, as the crow flies – sits the township’s gathering place. It is the site where hopes and dreams are born during wedding ceremonies and where lives are remembered during memorials. In between, it is the location for myriad festivities, making it a heart of sorts for Jefferson Township.

Here sits the Miller’s A-frame house, the only one in Lake Shawnee.

Since time began, there has always been a gathering place.

Whether our ancestors sat together in a cave warming themselves at a fire, or whether they sat drinking lemonade on a porch, there has always been a place where people connected for sharing.

While many photos have been taken there through the years, the gazebo is now immortalized in a painting by well-known local artist, Sue Miller. A poem composed by her musician/ writer husband, Vern, complements the rendering. The artistic couple envision this creative undertaking as a legacy for the gazebo and a keepsake for the township.

The keepsake idea was suggested to the Millers early in the year by The Jefferson Chronicle founder, Kevin L. Pattky, Jr. “We loved the idea when Kevin came to us,” recalls Sue Miller, adding the gazebo was specifically chosen as a subject for the painting. “It is the gathering place for our town and it’s something happy,” she exudes.

Their description of suitability rings true upon a visit to their home on Lake Shawnee’s shoreline. Approaching the Miller residence is like strolling onto the page of a classic fairytale complete with magical cottage. A step inside their home, however, brings to life what they mean by “personally, professionally and creatively.”

The walls are resplendent with representation of each Miller’s art – his music, her artwork, and the photographic skill they both share. As well, there is a recording studio for him and an art studio for her. Their lively and friendly fur baby Sadie, however, owns the house itself.

The painting and accompanying poem will soon be officially gifted to the township by the Millers and The Chronicle.

Vern, Sadie, and Sue Miller.

Left: Vern Miller gazing at photos of one of his many music memories.

Right: Vern Miller sitting in his recording studio.

In both studios, the Millers have taught and mentored countless students whose dreams and goals were to become proficient musicians and artists themselves. Many of their students have gone on to become professional artists, musicians, and teachers, the Millers say.

Jefferson’s visual beauty is especially inspirational, the couple 16

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

Jefferson Township Original home of the Lenape, Land of lakes and mountain streams.

Forest trees and fields of green, Woodland life from bears to bees.

The town Gazebo, where folks meet To celebrate community.

Make new friends, share music’s treats And light the annual Christmas Tree.

Home to families, hopes and dreams, Where neighbors care for those in need.

Jefferson, not just a township …

A Home.

– Vern Miller Painting of the Jefferson Township gazebo by Sue Miller.

agrees. “Jefferson Township is a visually beautiful area with our lakes, woods like Mahlon Dickerson, farmland, and lots of birds, waterfowl, and woodland animals,” says Sue Miller.

Choosing a winter setting for her depiction of the gazebo reflects Miller’s enjoyment of Jefferson’s atmosphere. The artist says she chose a winter holiday setting for the painting because the gazebo looks especially beautiful in the snow, particularly when encircled by glowing trees dressed in lights for the holiday season. “It looks magical!” she adds.

From Vision to Goal

The vision of a township gazebo was first conceived by local resident Susan Ransegnola, who presented the idea to the Township Council back in the late 1990s. Soon after, a gathering place for residents went from vision to goal. In 1998, the Jefferson Township Gazebo Committee officially launched with Kelly at the helm and Ransegnola in second command.

According to The Chronicle’s columnist Carol Punterieri, gazebo fundraising kicked off with a donation from Ransegnola’s family. Efforts to raise money began in earnest with successful “fun-raising,” including an art auction, a tricky tray, a hypnotist show, a petting zoo, a hayride, and selling engraved pavers, according to Punterieri’s gazebo history, the full version of which can be found on page 24 in this issue.

Tradition!

Ever since the Jefferson Community Band first performed at the gazebo’s dedication, concerts there have become tradition through the years. The Friday evening summer concert series, sponsored by the Jefferson Arts Committee, is a favorite among residents. On any rain-free Friday evening from the end of

June until the end of August, there is a sea of lawn chairs on the grass between the township library and the gazebo. Hands clap, toes tap, heads sway to the music, and it is not unusual to see kids and adults alike dancing under the gazebo’s roof.

At dusk, the setting sun seen through the trees surrounding the gazebo brings a sense of serenity, even as musicians rock ... or roll. And as the seasonal fireflies appear, delighted children begin their traditional chase, providing a pleasant distraction during concert intermissions.

But it’s not just music that draws residents to the gazebo. It’s events like National Night Out and the annual tree lighting that bring the community together. “Since it has been built, the gazebo is definitely the town gathering place for many ceremonies,” including weddings, township mayor Eric Wilsusen tells The Chronicle. Out of the 18 marriage services he’s officiated this year, some four couples this past summer requested their ceremony be celebrated at the gazebo, he says.

Other ceremonies may be more subdued, but nevertheless, notable and meaningful. For example, Wilsusen notes that his wife Kristine and JT Connect have conducted many candlelight vigils to bring local awareness to suicide and mental health.

A lifelong Jefferson resident, Wilsusen, says his “favorite memories are of the tree lighting ceremonies,” noting he was honored – as 2014’s Citizen of the Year – to “flip the switch” that lit up the township’s gathering place … like magic.

As Sue Miller noted, the gazebo during the holidays “is magical,” and she has captured this magic on canvas with her unique artistic expression. Her holiday gazebo is a keepsake the township will have forever, as is Vern Miller’s ode to Jefferson Township itself.

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

17

Insights and Expertise: Living Your Best Life Ever The Nail in the Fence

By Janet Pfeiffer

A Strug

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

KEEP YOUR HEAD UP

KING AND QUEEN OF THE COURT

2

A little boy prone to anger was instructed by his father, “Every time you’re angry, drive a nail in that wooden fence. When you’ve learned to control your temper, remove all of them.” The boy obeyed. Eventually he successfully removed every nail. He showed the fence to his father, expecting to receive praise. But the dismayed father stated, “See the holes? You have removed the nails, but the damage can never be undone. The fence will never be the same.”

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This story is a perfect analogy for the potential damage anger can have on others. All emotions have purpose and value. None is inherently bad – even anger. How we choose to express emotions and what we do with them determines whether they become a positive or negative force in life.

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Herein lies the problem with anger: When we become upset with others, we often lash out in rage. “You’re so annoying! Get out of my life!” “I never should have married you! My parents warned me!” Ouch! Hurtful words hurt – over and over. We say something once, yet the person on the receiving end of our wrath replays those words again and again. Each time, they gain momentum and power. For the offender, the incident occurs once and is forgotten. For the target, it is relived 10, 20, 100 times or more. Words spoken in anger have the potential to cause a lifetime of suffering.

As a young child, I distinctly remember an adult telling me in a very unkind manner that I would not amount to anything in life. I never quite understood the reasoning behind the cruel words, but I do remember the depth of pain I experienced in that moment.

I replayed those words over and over in my head for decades.

They became my truth. Eventually I attended college, but with no particular career aspirations. Immediately upon graduating, I married my high school sweetheart, and soon thereafter we started a family. Staying home and raising children was safe and at times became a convenient excuse for not venturing into the world to see what possibilities awaited me. I reminded myself that I’d never amount to anything, so why even try?

Not until I was in my forties was I able to revisit that awful comment and reevaluate its importance. I determined that another person’s words did not have to become the foundation upon which I built my life, nor should those words determine my value. What had caused me great anguish in reality had no merit.

The words were not truth. They were spoken in anger. As an adult, I was finally able to put the past behind me by forgiving the one who so cruelly drove a nail into my spirit.

Hurtful words hurt – over and over. They can leave scars in the very fiber of one’s being. Choose your words wisely. Temper your words with kindness. Harm no one.

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

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19

Jefferson Sophomore Doesn’t Let Tourette’s Keep Her Down One of the purposes of a wellness fair is to educate the public about conditions and disorders they may not be familiar with. Kyla Butler, 15, believes she is uniquely qualified to do that.

Butler is a sophomore at Jefferson Township High School and a ski racer who just happens to be dealing with Tourette’s Syndrome.

“I want to help people interact with those with disabilities and disorders,” she said on Saturday, November 16, at the fair at the Senior Citizens Building in Oak Ridge. One thing she does is explain that she can’t help the tics and hesitations people may notice when they chat with her.

She notes that she has been judged and bullied because people don’t understand Tourette’s, but the bullying has decreased over the years.

It’s not a common condition. About 100,000 Americans have full-blown Tourette’s, but others have a more mild form. According to a medical website, it often starts in childhood and affects more boys than girls. The symptoms may improve with age. Researchers think there might be a problem with the basal ganglia portion of the brain, which controls body movement. People with family members who have Tourette’s may be more likely to develop it, but family members don’t necessarily have the same symptoms. Tics are the most common symptom.

Butler said her Tourette’s is mild and includes only motor tics. She said she tries to explain what she experiences and how it affects her life. She attended a four- day leadership academy at Rutgers University through the NJ Center for Tourette’s Support. Her teachers need to know what they can do to make class easier for her, she said. She may need extra time for speaking or tests and is not comfortable reading out loud. She also helps her classmates understand her tics. She noted many people associate Tourette’s with coprolalia, which is involuntarily uttering curse words, but that is only one symptom and not one she deals with.

Butler’s table at the fair was full of information on other conditions people may not understand, such as mental health issues. She’s starting to think about college and continuing her advocacy as well as her skiing, soccer, and track.

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Wellness Fair Focuses on Mental Health and Addiction

By Jane Primerano (articles and photos) The senior citizens center on Schoolhouse Road here didn’t have many seniors in attendance on Saturday, November 16, but a number of younger people attended a Wellness Fair that is part of the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign.

Many of the agencies that serve Jefferson Township and Morris County set up tables to promote what they can do for the population. Among the youngest wellness advocates present were students from the Health Services Academy at the Morris County School of Technology. The enthusiastic young people were advocating for health care access for youth, especially in the area of mental health and substance abuse.

Student Kareena Khubchandari said access to mental health care is especially limited in rural areas. “We need more health care providers in rural areas,” she said, adding even itinerant or “drive through” caregivers would be an improvement. “People don’t view mental health the same as physical health,” she noted.The students are trying to change that with a petition calling for increased access to mental health care. They put on a program calling attention to addiction issues at the close of the Wellness Fair.

Khubchandari talked about the vaping problem. She said false advertising draws young people to vaping because they think is is safer than smoking cigarettes. “Nicotine is nicotine,” she said. The students emphasized that addiction is a disease. Rachel Coombs said a prevailing view is that young people are just making bad choices as a way to rebel and that just isn’t true.

Health educator Kristine Schaffhauser-Wilsusen said she was glad to have the students as part of the fair. “We want to empower young people,” she commented. Gail Johnson, a public health nurse with the Jefferson Health Department, told the students a young person is more likely to talk to them. She emphasized society tends to tell young people they need to be perfect and that creates a lot of stress.

Ashley Craig, who works with HopeOne, the Morris County Sheriff ’s mobile addiction services, said she has met people who had an injury or surgery and ended up hooked on painkillers. She said she hopes what the students are trying to do helps those people, too. HopeOne has conducted more than 3,000 Narcan trainings and 39 kits have been used.

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

Student Michael Keller said his group is trying to address the correlation between mental health and substance abuse. Khubchandari said students want to feel better and self-medicate.

Wendy Long of St. Clare’s Hospital said too many people don’t know about the services available to them. She wants to do more programming to make residents aware of what is out there. Schaffhauser-Wilsusen said the Rescue Squad opens its building to representatives from the Center for Addiction Recovery Services every week to provide a drop-in center. The squad’s Kim Finnegan, a township councilwoman, said the squad welcomes CARES in. “The problems affect our township,” she said. “it’s even important for our members to understand what the people are going through.” CARES and St. Clare’s were among the service agencies with tables at the fair.

Long said the number of services offered by the three hospitals in the St. Clare’s family have expanded over the years. She emphasized the Behavioral Health Center in Boonton (the old Riverside Hospital) has a walk-in department for substance abusers seeking help. The program offers a comprehensive evaluation and individual treatment plans. The Wellness and Recovery Center on Pocono Road in Denville also offers rapid support to those with a mental health crisis.

Erika Shortway of CARES explained treatment is an event, but recovery is a lifetime. She said many people attempt recovery many times. “Sometimes it plants the seeds, but people always need a support system.”

Jefferson Native Tells Her Story of Addiction The finale to a presentation on addiction by students from the Morris County School of Technology Academy for Health Care Science was unexpected.

Jefferson native and social work professional Susan Woomer offered to tell her story to the guests who remained after the Wellness Fair at the Senior Citizen Center in Oak Ridge.

Woomer said while there are many people who know her story, she has never presented it publicly. Health Educator Kristine Schaffhauser-Wilsusen, who arranged the wellness fair, asked Woomer to speak.

Saying she comes from an average family, Woomer said she was an only child who received lots of support, but she went down a surprising path. She didn’t realize until later she has a genetic predisposition to addiction, although she knew of a history of mental illness and addiction to alcohol and gambling in her family.

She had her first drink at age 14, but noted today young people often start as early as 11. “It’s definite your brain is not developed by then,” she said. Peer pressure wasn’t the villain, she said. “I wanted to be on the inside. I was always questioning whether I was pretty enough or good enough until I added alcohol and drugs. My self-esteem was related to how people saw me and I didn’t realize that.”

While she thought she would start over in college, Woomer found herself continuing to make negative decisions, and she learned consequences continue when you become an adult. By then she had become introduced to opioids. When she found herself within the criminal justice system, she found herself stigmatized. “People look at you differently.”

As she recognized her problem, she began to see other members of her family who never sought treatment.

“I didn’t get sober based on one time,” she said. “I had to fall a couple of times.” She noted when people see a 50-year old addict, they say “bad choices,” but when they see a 17-year old they say, “what a tragedy.”

“Each deserve an equal chance,” she said.

For herself, Woomer found support and God and discovered her own path in January 2012. “I learned to find my own self-worth,” she said. It still wasn’t all smooth sailing, however. “I expected people to trust me when I got sober, but I had to learn to get their trust back,” she said, adding, “One of the reasons I never shared my story is because of the stigma. People with mental illness still feel a stigma. I still have to explain stuff on job applications.”

While she thought perhaps her background would be an advantage, or at least not an impediment in getting a job counseling people with addiction, she discovered that wasn’t the case. “People still judge,” she said.

Now Woomer hopes telling her story will help with that. “I have to recover out loud. I need to talk about it,” she said.

She does more than just talk. She advocates for treatment facilities in jails and prisons. “About 80 percent of the people in jail have substance abuse issues, but most jails don’t have treatment,” she said, adding that if someone with diabetes is incarcerated, he or she still gets the necessary insulin.

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

21

fish to sear. Try it, but be prepared for the clean up of the splattering oil.

Anything Food Cooking Methods and Techniques

By Jimmy Seretis, Co-Owner, Jefferson Diner and J. Towne Tavern We often try and decipher which cooking method or technique is the right one for a specific type of food. Do we roast, sear, fry, bake, or boil? Or, do we use a more modern technique like sous-vide? The answer is there is no right answer; you can use just about any technique for any type of food with a little creativity and a lot of love. Here you’ll find some basic cooking techniques to enhance your cooking knowledge and make cooking more enjoyable for you, your family, and your friends.

Ahhh, pan frying!! This method is achieved when your food is placed in a hot frying pan with fat content added, e.g. oil or butter, so that the fat creeps up about 3/8 to 1/2 an inch on your food until it is golden brown, then you flip it. Flouring your food or egg washing it is an avenue you can take prior to placing it in the hot pan. This technique is perfect for zucchini, chicken breast, or even eggs over easy. This is different from deep frying, where the food is completely submarined in the boiling oil. Get the idea?

At the other end of the cooking spectrum is a French culinary cooking technique known as sous-vide. We often accept the temperature of a steak or a particular poultry, whether we are cooking for family or going to our favorite restaurant. This technique allows us to submerge the protein in a temperaturebcontrolled water bath by putting our food in an air-free plastic bag. The sous-vide technique allows our protein, in this case a piece of filet mignon, to be the same temperature throughout the outside and inside. This enables us to have tender and evenly cooked meat, chicken, or whatever our creativity desires. It is like flipping on the “heat” or “air” temperature buttons on your thermostat to control your home’s temperature. Pretty cool, huh?

Let’s conclude with a technique known as curing. For thousands of years this technique of salting or drawing out the moisture of the fish, protein or vegetable, was used mainly to preserve and keep the food edible and long lasting.

Smoking, curing, drying, or par cooking can achieve this dehydration or prevention of microbial bacteria that grows through the water. When camping or in a cabin off the grid for long periods of time, this can be extremely effective to preserve calorie intake for the long haul.

Pan searing or “searing” is a type of pan frying where only a light layer of oil or fat is placed on a high heat searing pan.

This method is great for searing a fish filet or lamb chop, where you want the outside golden brown and crispy and the inside tender or rare. Chilean sea bass is a magnificent

22

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23

Snapshots of History Gazebo Dream Became Reality with Teamwork and Vision

By Carol Punturieri (photo by Christopher Bean) Enjoying a summer concert at a gazebo in Florham Park made such an impression on Susan Ransegnola that she envisioned a beautiful gazebo in Jefferson Township where concerts and special events could be held. It was fate that she happened to have a conversation with Jack Kelly, then President of the Jefferson Arts Committee, to find he had a similar vision as well. They soon found other interested residents and approached the township council in hopes of their dream becoming a reality. With encouragement from the governing body, the Jefferson Township Gazebo Committee was formed in 1998, and Ransegnola volunteered to start the fundraising efforts with a donation from her own family.

Kelly and his wife Rose, along with Ransegnola and her husband Nick, were joined on the new committee

by Ben and Debbie Smead, Linda Bormann, Horace Chamberlain, Melissa Dugan, Aileen Maloney, Darin and Julie Mastricola, Patti Otto, Roberta Shaw, Roland Sparling, and Phyllis Toli. They elected a Board of Directors to pursue the project, and President Jack Kelly, Vice President Susan Ransegnola, Secretary Debbie Smead, Treasurer Rose Kelly, and Directors Patti Otto and Aileen Maloney prepared a constitution and by-laws that were adopted on November 18, 1998. It was decided the gazebo should be sited in the Jefferson Township Municipal complex, and the committee was incorporated as a not-forprofit corporation on December 12, 1998.

Inspiration from Towns Near and Far

Committee members visited gazebos in the area as close as Dover and Rockaway and as far as Cape May to get an idea of the type of gazebo structure that would fit the character of the township and would be feasible to build and fund. The committee launched a donation campaign, and Jefferson businesses responded enthusiastically, adding 24

to the substantial donation from the township itself.

Ransegnola coordinated various fundraising events, ranging from a community cookbook to a petting zoo to further finance the project.

On February 17, 1999, the Gazebo Committee met with the Township Council and outlined their choice for a location and the construction plans. The council granted authorization for the committee to move forward, and they began to research companies that built large gazebos.

The Kellys went to Lancaster, PA to determine if Amish contractors could build a gazebo to their specifications, and Amish Roadside Structures indicated they could build a 25-foot, 12-sided gazebo that could be mounted directly onto a concrete base.

Darin Mastricola and Jack Kelly met with the Town of Dover Engineer Michael Hantson to discuss Dover’s gazebo. Hantson, also a township resident, explained how the gazebo was selected, reviewed the construction details, and presented the committee with several drawings.

With the assistance of then Jefferson Township Engineer David Hansen and Darren Phil of Suburban Engineering, a specific site was selected on municipal property at 1033 Weldon Road. The Jefferson Township Planning Board provided a courtesy review of the plans and discussed the location and construction, approving the site plan on August 10, 1999 and memorializing it on September 14, 1999.

On December 20, 1999, the committee ordered a Victorian-style gazebo from Amish Roadside Structures for $14,850, with construction scheduled for the spring of 2000.They held a groundbreaking ceremony March 4, 2000, Victor Simonelli of Oak Ridge completed the concrete base for the gazebo, and Ed Newsom of Lake Hopatcong installed the preliminary electrical work.

A Dream Realized

Amish Roadside Structures arrived in Jefferson at 6 a.m. on the morning of April 29, 2000 and completed the construction by 4:30 that afternoon! The entire cost of the gazebo upon completion was $35,000. PNJ Landscaping completed the landscaping and construction of the walkway and apron, and NJ Master Gardner Roberta Shaw took over maintenance of the areas and the Buy-a-Brick program for The Walk of Pride so the public could purchase commemorative brick pavers.

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

The committee held a dedication ceremony on Sunday, June 4, 2000 with Darin Mastricola as Master of Ceremonies.

Mayor Russell Felter welcomed visitors, Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen was the guest speaker, and the Jefferson Township Community Band performed the very first concert at the new gazebo.

Plaques mounted on large stones at the site memorialize the members of the original gazebo committee; the names of the contributors to the Gazebo Fund; those members of the Jefferson Arts Committee who have passed away -Debbie and Ben Smead, Marian Petti, Alfred Sorokach, Anne Littlehales, and Brooke Hardy; and the original Gazebo Committee members who have passed away -Debbie and Ben Smead and Patti Otto.

In March of 2006, the Gazebo Committee dissolved the corporation and became part of the Jefferson Arts Committee, and the gazebo itself became the property of the Township of Jefferson.

The gazebo serves as a community gathering place for wedding, holiday, and prom photographs, and mayors marry many couples inside the structure. Each December, the gazebo is adorned with white lights as the site for the township Christmas tree for the annual tree lighting ceremony and Santa’s arrival. The gazebo serves as the starting point of the Junior Woman’s Club’s annual Wrobo Run, the Police Department’s Annual Night Out,

JTCONNECT’s Light-a-Luminary event, and some of the Jefferson Township Public Library’s special events.

The brick walkway around the gazebo was extended several years ago to provide a larger performance area for the musicians and singers to use outside of the structure itself and large enough for dancing as Debbie Smead envisioned years ago.

Since 2001, the Jefferson Arts Committee, the Township of Jefferson, the Jefferson Township Public Library, and the free will donations of appreciative concert attendees have allowed exciting free concerts featuring professional entertainers to continue on summer nights.

Last year, the Arts Committee installed new interior and exterior LED lighting and a paddle fan and hope to upgrade the landscaping, add a few benches on the grass, and replace the pole lights on the walkway. Some of these improvements will be financed from generous donations recently made in memory of Patricia Otto and past donations made in memory of the Smeads.

As the 20th anniversary of the Jefferson Township Gazebo approaches, it still stands majestically beside the entrance driveway leading into the municipal complex. It’s a beautiful landmark, and the site is expected to continue to be used for township events and activities for many more years to come.

As Walt Disney once said, “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”

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25

Profile A Tribe in Africa

By Jim Dougherty (photos by Christopher Bean) There is an ancient proverb among the peoples of the Horn of Africa (Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Somalia) who share a distinct heritage and linguistic roots. It states (roughly): “Do not tell others what they must do. Show them the reason, and they will go.” This proverb is obviously steeped in a culture fostering an intrinsic sense of responsibility. Traditionally, and even today, the people of this region live in a clan structure.

Though different from one another, the clans hold several tenets in common: honoring tradition, respect for one’s elders, accountability to the group, and the primacy of raising youth who will one day carry on their traditions and lead the next generation forward.

DJ was involved in many sports, one being Lacrosse circa 2004.

advantages and challenges and place.

Where To?

DJ and older brother Andy at a family wedding circa 2016.

David Kerwien Jr. did not grow up under a strict clan structure.

He was not raised on the pastoral proverbs of a nomadic desert people, did not spend his youth tending goats,and did not draw his family’s water from a hand-dug well. Kerwien, born and raised in Jefferson (class of 2011), grew up in a typical American household with the common to our modern time

After high school graduation, Kerwien faced the typical “what next” dilemma. He certainly wanted to work, to participate, to feel productive. He hoped to put his vigorous energy to good purpose, but had trouble finding his way. He was young, ambitious, energized – and yet, uncertain. He worked in several trades, earned his associate degree, and joined the National Guard, but still longed for a deeper commitment. He wanted something bigger, something more meaningful.

Kerwien served honorably in the National Guard and was ready for discharge from active duty. He was prepared to move back into civilian life, where he planned to pursue a career in law enforcement. In his own words, he wanted “to help correct the stigma faced by law enforcement in our country, which overshadows the amazing work done each day 26

by all the good cops out there.” He was ready to become a “good cop” himself, a police officer in a community like the one that raised him ... that is, until he heard that his unit was deploying to the east coast of Africa, a world apart. Without hesitating, Kerwien reenlisted. He says of that decision, “My parents taught me that once I make a commitment, I see it through. I don’t ever have to do it again, but I see it through once I begin.”

It wasn’t only his parents who built this young man’s sense of duty, compassion, responsibility, service, adventure, and gratitude. By his own account, confirmed by his parents and verified by others who know him, Kerwien is a product of this community. He is a poster child for the saying “It takes a village.” Though his influences growing up are too many to list, a few names came quickly to his mind: coaches Milonas, Shortway,Trautman, Guarino, Mullins, and Reid. He mentions his neighbors, teachers, the parents of his friends (DiBernard, Wilhelm, Barrett, Polis), and his own brother, Andy. Kerwien refers to these people as his “tribe.”That tribe grew substantially when he joined the United States Army, where he added new skills, knowledge, and values to the ones he carried from home: faith, leadership, discipline, accountability.

Out to Africa

Kerwien granted this interview from an army outpost near a village in eastern Africa. He says the experience has given him a tremendous sense of awe as he has learned about, and involved himself in, the lives of his neighbors. He does not speak of the obvious and myriad differences between rural African life and his home in Jefferson Township. When Kerwien steps beyond the bounds of his base, he sees the similarities: sharing, kindness, compassion, family, community, service, and home.

Kerwien has not found people different and “less than.” To him, they are an extension of his own family, an addition to the tribe.

DJ’s Unit helping a family in the Horn of Africa.

Although Kerwien is not at liberty to speak about his location or mission parameters, according to the United States Army official website (www.army.mil), American soldiers have been in that region since 2002 as part of a coalition force to prevent conflict, promote regional stability, and protect coalition interests in east Africa and Yemen. The stability resulting from their efforts will promote growth, thereby protecting the local

The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

people from radicalization, famine, and violence. Kerwien speaks of his duty as one of service to that community – strangers to him, living far from the delis and lacrosse fields of Jefferson, but kindred just the same.

Kerwien sees his own home reflected in the people around him. They remind him, daily, of how he got where he is. He views them as another example of the fact that we need to stay connected. In our youth, we depend on our community for guidance and support. In our prime, community gives us an opportunity to contribute and build; it is the best place for the best of our abilities and dreams. As we age, we attain positions of leadership as the vessels of wisdom and as the thread binding new to old.

bottled drinks. rican village gather for Members of a local Af

Kind Hands

The people of the Horn of Africa have another saying that bears repeating: “A kind hand is worth more than a kind word.”

Thanks to the guidance of his tribe – at home, in service, and abroad – Kerwien is living out that axiom daily. It is a credit to his character that he has a kind word to match.

It was vital to Kerwien and his family to mention the thousands of men and women serving their country in the United States armed forces. This story is not about a specific young man, but rather about the results we can always expect when a village, a tribe, comes together and extends its hands. From the least action to the greatest, all contribute to the group that will shape lives and impact others for decades to come. We may at times forget how important participation in our community truly is, but each of our actions reverberates throughout our home and across the globe.

Kerwien will soon return to New Jersey, where he plans to become part of the fabric of his community. At this time of year, we remember all that we have and all for which we are grateful. More than reflection and a kind word, it’s a time to act by extending our hands in kindness to those on the fringe. When asked what he envisions for Jefferson Township moving forward, Kerwien recalls our community in its times

Mr. & Mrs. Kerwien awaiting the return of their deployed son, DJ.

of greatest strife when we came together in solidarity, when we looked to the needs of others, when no one was left out in the

cold, when no one went without – our town at its best, the one he will rejoin. Whether speaking of the town that raised him, his comrades in uniform, or his newfound tribe on the coast of foreign soil, the lesson is the same: “We can’t be alone; we need to feel supported. At the end of the day, we need each other – we are a tribe.”

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

27

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The Jefferson Chronicle DIGEST • December 2019

Community Bulletin Board Submit bulletins: newsroom@TheJeffersonChronicle.com

Winter Exercise Classes to Begin in January Seven adult exercise classes are being offered this winter through the town’s Recreation Department: beginner and intermediate yoga, chair yoga, core strength training, Zumba, cardio kickboxing, PiYo (Pilates/yoga), and turbo kick strength. See below for class details.

Registration must be completed online using the “2020 Adult Exercise Classes” season at https://register.communitypass. net/reg/index.cfm. Payment can be made with a credit card (convenience fee added) or select “Send Payment” at checkout for the option to mail or hand-deliver payment to the Recreation Department office (81 Weldon Road, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849). If assistance is required during the registration process, contact the office at 973-663-8404 x4 or cpunturieri@jeffersontownship.net. If full payment is not received in the office within three business days, registration may be canceled.

Beginner/Mixed Level Yoga will begin on Wednesday, January 8 and end on March 18 starting at 7:30 to 8:30 pm for an 11week session (with a make-up class on March 25 if needed).

Mixed Level Yoga will begin on Thursday, January 9 and end on March 19 starting at 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm for an 11-week session (with a make-up date of March 26 if needed).

Chair Yoga will begin on Wednesday, January 8 and end on March 18 starting at 6 to 7 pm for an 11-week session (with a make-up date of March 25 if needed).

Core strength training will begin with a 12-week session on Tuesday, January 7 from 7 to 7:45 pm continuing on consecutive Tuesdays with the last class on March 24 with a make-up class on March 31. Participants should bring a bottle of water, a challenging set of hand weights, and a mat or large towel for the floor exercises.

ZUMBA® will begin on Thursday, January 9 and end on March 19 from 6:15 to 7 pm with 11 sessions (with a make-up date of March 26 if needed) for a session fee of $38.50.

Cardio Kickboxing will begin on Wednesday, January 8 starting at 7:30 until 8:15 pm and run for 10 weeks ending March 11 (with a make-up date on March 18 if needed) in The Community Lodge at Camp Jefferson, 81 Weldon Road, Lake Hopatcong.

PiYo will begin on Tuesday, January 7 starting at 8 pm until 8:45 pm and run for 9 weeks ending on March 10 (with a make-up class on March 17 if needed.

A Kind Hand . . .

The following organizations were recommended by Jefferson residents for those who wish to reach out, especially during the holiday season: Wheelers for the Wounded (fundraiser for military veterans): www.wheelersforthewoundednj.org Volunteer Match (various opportunities): www.volunteermatch.org/nonprofits Family Promise of Morris and Sussex Counties (homelessness support and prevention): www.familypromisemorris.org www.familypromisesussex.com Homeless Solutions (homelessness support and prevention): www.homelesssolutions.org/volunteer Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System: www.newjersey.va.gov/locations/directions.asp Orphan Outreach (sponsorship worldwide): www.orphanoutreach.org

PING

NO VA

Program on Vaping Coming to High School

Join the Jefferson Township High School and Middle School PTAs, JTMAC, JT Connect and JTeam for Pasta and a Program on January 16. Let’s Clear the Air About Vaping features Rebecca Tritt, MA, LAC, LCADC, NCC, a substance abuse navigator and therapist at Daytop Village. She will discuss what vaping products are, why they are harmful, and how to protect children from this trend.

In addition, high school principal Dr. Timothy Plotts and middle school principal Dr. Kelly Cooke will discuss plans the schools will put into place in the new year.

A complimentary pasta buffet, donated by Gatwyns II Restaurant and Bar, will begin at 6 p.m. in the JTHS cafeteria at 1031 Weldon Road in Oak Ridge. Register

by January 10 at https://tinyurl.com/vaping-program.

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

29

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The Nutcracker for Children Jefferson Township Library

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In Brief Ice Retardant Systems Studied

Academy Students Talk Plastics to Council

By Jane Primerano

By Jane Primerano

A Lake Hopatcong Commission subcommittee has been studying various ice retardant systems for over a year.

Four students from the Morris County Environmental Academy at Jefferson Township High School brought a box of plastic bags to the township council meeting on Wednesday, November 13 to talk about the last lake cleanup and what can be done to limit plastics.

Commissioner Fred Steinbaum said he thought the new “ice eaters” could be kept if they are controlled by a timer and a temperature gauge, which seasonal residents often do.

However, Steinbaum now thinks ice eaters should be banned and the older “bubblers” be required for people who choose to use retardants, since they have less power and create a smaller ring of open water around the docks.

Larger expanses of open water are dangerous to skaters and ice boaters, especially when snow covers areas of thin ice or visibility is lowered.

Commission Chairman Ron Smith said the systems will have to be controlled by local ordinance and inspected by municipal employees.

Jefferson Receives Part of Open Space Grant

Mayor Eric Wilsusen saw the presentation at the high school and invited the students to a council meeting.

Academy students crunched the numbers from the cleanup which is done every five years during the five-foot Lake Hopatcong drawdown. The 409 volunteers collected 7,007 pieces of trash. Of that, 43.6 percent was single-use plastics, including caps and lids, bottles, and bags.

Jefferson has the most shoreline around Lake Hopatcong.

Murderously Good Fun at JTHS

By Ulla Vinkman (article and photo)

Photo courtesy of the County of Morris

Jefferson Township High School students brought to life The Bold, the Young and the Murdered, a murder mystery comedy by writer Don Zolidis on November 22 and 23.

Jefferson Township will receive part of a $1.96 million grant from Morris County’s Open Space Trust Fund Committee.

The grant will fund preservation of open space at the Treadwell property. A total of 164 acres located in six Morris County towns will receive grant funds.

Besides Jefferson Township, other included projects are in Chester Township, Denville, Morris Township, Mount Olive, and Roxbury.

Friday’s opening night performance had a large crowd filling the seats and laughing throughout the comedy. The play took place on the set of a long-running soap opera that is in danger of cancellation. As if that wasn’t enough, the cast and crew are being murdered one by one.

The play was directed by Cheryl Miskimon and features actors Andrew Cooper, Frank Garrato, Kyle Welch, Gia LaMonica, Hannan Naiman, Lily Snow, Nick Smeilus, April Manaisa, Samantha Schell, Natalie Gondola, Payton Kazatsky, Hayden Mille, Nick Sullivan and Elizabeth O’Shea.

www.TheJeffersonChronicle.com

31

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