‘Apple Cider Donut Bowl’
Still Going Strong
 By Megan Roche
As the West Morris Central Wolfpack and West Morris Mendham Minutemen faced off during the opening weekend of the 2024 football season, another bet was continuing.
The Apple Cider Donut Bowl, a friendly competition that started between Washington Township Mayor Matt Murello and former Chester Mayor Marcia Asdal, brought a new level of excitement to both the Central and Mendham fans.
“Marcia and I started it in 2019 as a cross-town rivalry, where we could have a little bit of fun and get the kids pumped up for the game. It was some fun banter back and forth. We both showed up at the game and Central ended up winning that year,” Murello recalled.
The bowl got its name from a joke between Asdal and Murello.
“In one of the comments between Marcia and my Facebook posts, someone had mentioned that it was fall and that we both had farms in our towns, so why not put a little bit of skin in the game and the loser has to bring apple cider donuts to the winner’s town hall,” Murello said.
The Apple Cider Donut Bowl became the official competition, complete with the winner walking away with a donut shaped trophy for their respective school’s display case.
Over the years, Central and Mendham have faced off in football 34 times. Of those 34 times, Central has won 26 of those games. In those years, there was only one game that ended in a tie.
Mayor Tim Drag, current mayor of Chester Township, and Murello went head-to-head on Facebook in the weeks leading up to the opening high school football game. From sharing memes and videos and pumping up their communities, both Drag and Murello enjoyed the playful banter.
“It’s really all about getting the kids excited for the game. After this game, both teams kind of go off on their merry way and fight in their different conferences,” Murello said.
Drag and Murello both attended the football game on August 30. In the end, Central ended up victorious over Mendham with a final score of 24-16.
“School pride is something that really got lost during COVID when the kids were all locked in their houses. We hope that this competition gives the kids something to talk about in a fun way,” Murello said.
Mayor Drag indeed followed up on his promise, delivering donuts and apple cider from Riamede Farms to Washington Township Town Hall on September 9.
“A bet is a bet,” Drag said on his Facebook page.

Don’t Miss The Morristown Festival Of Books 2024 Keynote EventFeaturing Renowned Journalist and Best-Selling author Fareed Zakaria in Conversation
with Best-Selling author Jonathan Alter
2024 Morristown Festival of Books (MFOB) Keynote Speaker Fareed Zakaria, host of CNN’s Fareed Zakaria GPS, journalist, and author, will discuss his latest New York Times best seller, Age of Revolutions: Progress and Backlash from 1600 to the Present with historian, documentary filmmaker, and author of American Reckoning, Jonathan Alter, in an on-stage conversation on Friday, October 18, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. at the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) in Morristown.
Zakaria will discuss how history’s revolutions can help us better understand today’s challenges. In his major new work, Age of Revolutions, he explores the pivotal revolutions that have shaped world history—from the economic revolution of the seventeenth-century Dutch Golden Age to the Industrial Revolution in nineteenth-century Britain and America—and examines how the current revolutions in globalization, technology, identity, and geopolitics can provide lessons to overcome all challenges.
Purchase tickets online through morristownbooks.org or call the Mayo Performing Arts Center box office at 973-539-8008. Tickets are available at two levels: $60 General Admission and $100 Festival Champion Admission. Both include a signed hardcover copy of Age of Revolutions.
The Keynote Event is generously co-sponsored by Delta Dental and the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, as well as Special Event Sponsor JP Morgan Chase. This fundraiser event helps underwrite the remarkable, free offerings of MFOB’s all-day Saturday Festival, which features the opportunity to interact with scores of authors.
About the Saturday Book Festival
The all-day, free Main Festival takes place on Saturday, October 19, and has something for everyone. More than 100 award-winning and best-selling authors will speak and answer questions at five locales, all within walking distance of each other along South Street in historic Morristown. Book sales and signings will take place on the sweeping grounds of the Vail Mansion. KidFest is an activity-filled part of the event where kids meet their favorite authors, get their books signed, and partake in crafts, face painting, and more.
About the Keynote Author
Fareed Zakaria is the host of CNN’s flagship international affairs show, Fareed Zakaria GPS, and is a weekly columnist for the Washington Post. He is the author of four New York Times best sellers, including Ten Lessons for a Post-Pandemic World.
About the Keynote Moderator
Jonathan Alter is an award-winning author, political analyst, documentary filmmaker, columnist, television producer and radio host. He is the author of three New York Times best sellers about American presidents and has written for the New York Times, the Washington Post, The Washington Monthly, the New Yorker, Bloomberg, and other publications.
Morristown Festival of Books is a fund of the Community Foundation of New Jersey, a non-profit corporation. For more information, visit morristownbooks.org and follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram @morristownbooks!

Torah Dedication Ceremony in Memory of Terror
Attack Victims to Feature Memorial Service,
Music & Traditional Dancing

The Jewish community of Mendham and Chester welcomed a special Torah scroll — Judaism’s most sacred object — with a unique ritual ceremony. Taking place between the Jewish high holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, where over a 100 were expected to gather for the Torah dedication ceremony, which will also commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Hamas Terror attacks of October 7, 2023.
The Torah is being dedicated in memory of those who were killed by Hamas terrorists in Israel as well as those wounded, held hostage, and those who suffered the loss of family and friends. The ceremony will feature an expert scribe who will complete the Torah scroll live in front of the community, and attendees will have the opportunity to donate or inscribe a letter in the Torah in the memory of one of the victims of Oct. 7.
“The Torah is what has sustained our people through generations of persecution and every time it will be used, it will bring honor to the memory of the victims of terror,” said Rabbi Ari Herson, director of Chabad Jewish Center of Mendham and Chester. “Just as a Torah scroll is not considered Kosher if even one letter is missing, the Jewish people are incomplete if even one person is missing.”
The funding for the memorial Torah was generously provided by the Goldenberg family to honor their son Marc’s memory. The memorial Torah will also include letters inscribed by the Alexander family of Tenafly, NJ, whose 20-year old son Edan is one of four American hostages still being held hostage in Gaza by Hamas for over 11 months.
The somber memorial service, led by Rabbi Herson and Cantor Shmuli Hurwitz from Crown Heights, will be followed by the traditional song and dance associated with the completion of a new Torah.
“Our Torah dedication ceremony will delicately balance our community’s sadness and joy,” adds Herson. “We remember those whose lives were tragically taken one year ago, even as we proclaim our hope and joy by bringing a new Torah to the community.”
About the Chabad of Mendham and Chester: Co-directed by Rabbi Ari and Sarah Herson, the Chabad Jewish Center of Mendham and Chester offers Jewish education, outreach and social service programming for families and individuals of all ages, Jewish backgrounds and affiliations. Since opening in September of 2023, the Chabad has held a variety of events such Jewish holiday programming, shabbat meals, Torah classes and adult social and education events. For more info, please visit ChabadMC.org.
 
World Class Figure Skater from Morristown Looks
Forward to 2026 Winter Olympics
By Evan Wechman

At eighteen years old, internationally acclaimed figure skater Ava Ziegler has traveled the world.  However, just like any other young adult she has had struggles where she has had to dig deep to overcome them. Unlike her peers though, these battles have been documented on various news sites.
Ziegler who was born in Morristown, New Jersey and learned to skate at the great Mennen Arena has not shied away from her personal battles. At the same time, she has grown tremendously as a world class skater while marching to her own drum.
After graduating high school this past June, she is focused on making the U.S. Olympic team in 2026.  Her hard work to get to this level started years ago.   Her mother, Trish Ziegler who finished fifth at the 1995 U.S. Figure Skating Championships taught her how to skate while she was just a child.
The elder Ziegler says “I enjoyed every minute of coaching my daughter. What an honor it has been to be able to pass on my passion, knowledge and love of this sport.  There is such a special quality to her skating that is true and captivating for all.  Her beauty and emotion are all contagious.  There is so much to be proud of.  Her faith, discipline, and perseverance has kept her on top and continues to push through the tough times.  It is amazing to watch her mature and push forward to her Olympic dreams.”
Though there was no certainty Ava would take to skating like her mother did, she found early on the ice was her sanctuary.
“I started skating really before I can remember anything. The first time I skated on the ice I was about one year old, and from the videos and everything else I’ve seen, honestly, it has always been my happy place and somewhere I can go and just skate and feel free and do what I love,” Ziegler says.
In a short time, Ziegler became a fierce competitor.  At 13 years old, she won the pewter medal at the 2019 U.S. Championships, and it looked like it would be all smooth sailing ahead.
However, just like any teenager she was having her own set of problems which took a toll on her. It even made her question if her passion for skating would survive. 
“I was dealing with a lot of burnout and I pushed myself as far as I can go, and it got so tiring. I was dealing with a rink where the energy was very negative all of the time. And so with the burnout and then that environment, I was just really ready to end my career, quit, move on and find something else that makes me happy. I switched coaches and rinks in the middle of last season (2023) and I now train in Newburgh, NY. My coaches and the team there, they just really helped with my happiness, confidence, and consistency in everything overall,” Ziegler says.
This was indeed the change she needed as she captured the 2023 NHK Trophy Championships in Osaka, Japan.   According to her, “it really showed me how much if you put your mind to something, you can overcome anything.”
Now, Ziegler has surrounded herself in the right environment and she is focused on winning a medal at the U.S. World Championships, and then bringing home a medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.  She says she has survived several mental struggles so as long as she can remain consistent, she believes in her ability to place in the top three at the Olympics.
Ziegler has matured on and off the ice during the last few years. Most skating experts feel she has the repertoire to make a run for the gold in 2026.  However, she has also gained a new following by speaking about her anxiety.  On many social media channels and newspapers, mental health professionals have praised her ability to speak about such tough subjects.
Ziegler was not looking to become a spokesperson for the issue. Rather, she just wanted to help herself as well as the younger competitors who were still new to the sport.
“I just think talking about the burnout and the anxiousness of everything that it’s completely normal for people to feel that way. And I think when I was younger, I never looked at the older, top figure skaters to feel any of this, but I think it’s totally normal for everyone to feel that way. I want the younger skaters to know that it’s okay to feel anxious or freaked out because it’s how you deal with it and how you push through.”

Refuge Youth of Mountaintop Church
embraces four pillars of ministry
By Steve Sears
When the Refuge Youth Ministry of Hackettstown’s Mountaintop Church meets on Wednesday evenings from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., everything the members do involves four pillars of ministry.
Reverend Kody Vagle, now in his 15^th year as Next Generation Pastor of Mountaintop Church, said of the first three pillars, “We start with an icebreaker game to connect our students and build community. We then transition into a worship service, where our student-led worship band will lead our youth group in a few worship and praise songs. The growth portion of the service is the teaching of the word.”
 Refuge Youth, a local ministry for any middle and high school student from grades 6-12, has been at the church for almost 20 years, and is a part of and participates in the National Assemblies of God youth ministry events and programs. The ministry is led by Vagle and nine Adult Leaders who have passed background checks and voluntary invest in the next generation.
As for the fourth pillar, Refuge Youth incorporates some sort of outreach opportunity, and currently sponsors two student-led Youth Alive high school Bible Clubs at both Hackettstown High School and Mount Olive High School. The Mount Olive group meets every Thursday during lunch in room S12, and the Hackettstown club meets every Friday during lunch in room A32.
 Refuge Youth also schedules monthly and quarterly events, including overnight trips such as a Winter Retreat and Summer Camp in conjunction with the New Jersey Assemblies of God, and hosts peer guest speakers – some from its own group.
Vagle explained, “I never want mine to be the only voice my students hear; so approximately once per month we will have a guest speaker. Oftentimes it is one of our incredible leaders, or even a missionary that we support.”
Vagle said that the long-term goal, in conjunction with Mountaintop Church’s vision for the future, is the hope of building an after-school student center. “The goal here would be for any student who wants or needs a positive environment after school to come and hang out, get potential homework assistance or tutoring, and just engage in a healthy community.”
Vagle added, “Generation Z – most of our middle and high school students and even college students and young adults – is known as the most stressed generation. According to a CDC study from 2022, 48% of Gen Z experience “persistent feelings of anxiety and/or depression” and 23% have “actively considered suicide.” Refuge Youth exists to show every single student, regardless of background, the unconditional love of Jesus. We believe that God created every single person in His image, He loves them so much, and He has a divine plan for their lives. We exist to let every young person know that.”

Trio de Refugio places fourth in national competition
By Steve Sears

It all started with a suggestion and was finalized while singing in a car.
16-year-old Ianna Torres said, “Pastor Kody (Vagle of Mountaintop Church in Hackettstown) and other people encouraged us to start this group. We all went out to eat one day and started singing in the car to mess around. It kind of just clicked.”
“The group was formed this past spring. We realized that we should use our gifts of singing for God!” 15-year-old Viacelly Funes added.
Indeed, they do. Torres, Funes, and 13-year-old Yirah Sastre attend Mountaintop Church in Hackettstown, are members of the Refuge Youth ministry, and Trio de Refugio is the name of their singing group that in August placed fourth at the 2024 National Fine Arts Festival Columbus, Ohio for the Vocal Ensemble: Spanish category.
The trio sang “Rey de Gloria/King of Glory” by Cece Winans to catapult themselves high above other groups from around the nation.
Sastre said, “Being able to make fourth place was amazing, and was something we worked hard for! Singing is my way of being able to worship God and glorify his name!”
Torres echoed her words. “Singing is my way to worship God and give him all the glory that is due his name. If it were not for God, we would not be able to do half of the stuff we contribute to.”
Trio de Refugio has not written any original compositions, but the group does create their own arrangements for the songs they do sing.
And again, they are melodious for God.
Funes said, “I give it my all because I know it is for His Glory and His glory only.”

Willowwood Arboretum: A Place to Become One with Nature
 By Megan Roche
 Off of Route 206 between Chester and Peapack Gladstone lies 131 acres of flowers, grounds, homes, and more. The peaceful acreage is known as Willowwood Arboretum and it has quite the story.
“In 1908, two brothers used a small legacy to acquire their country home near Gladstone, New Jersey. The two brothers, Henry and Robert Tubbs, and Henry’s adopted son, Dr. Benjamin Blackburn, developed this country place into the Willowwood Arboretum, New Jersey’s most comprehensive and longest continually operating Arboretum,” the website says.
Willowwood is open daily and offers its visitors much to see. With 14 gardens to see, there is something for everyone. There are three main formal gardens; Pan’s Garden, the Cottage Garden, and the Rosarie. However, various informal paths have also opened along the property, giving visitors different flora to see in all different directions. The park is home to about 2,100 kinds of native and exotic plants.
“Collecting and growing distinctive plants of all kinds became the continuing hobby of the brothers for half a century and many specimens date from their initial plantings,” the website shares.
There is also a cell phone tour of the grounds from April through October. The tours are completely self-paced and allow for individuals to explore the gardens on their own terms.
Patti Millar, who works with the Willowwood Foundation, is always surprised that people in the area have never heard of the arboretum.
“A lot of people that live pretty close by don’t know about us. Over the years, Willowwood has been kept a quiet secret. It’s such a special place with magnificent plantings and gardens and I think that is what makes it so unique,” Millar said.
 Owned by the Morris County Park Commission, the Willowwood Foundation helps to support the park financially through grants. The Willowwood Foundation is a non profit educational organization incorporated in 1960 in the State of New Jersey to nurture an appreciation for and knowledge of botany, horticulture and the natural world through its support of public horticulture education, written materials and facilities to promote use, access and information about native and exotic plants.
“So many places are being overrun with condominiums and convenience stores and all these commercial outfits. New Jersey, especially because it is such a small state, is getting more crowded with time. I think that there is a big push for the people who live near Willowwood that they want the area preserved and it provides such a huge service to the community at large,” Millar said.
 In 2025, the Willowwood Foundation will bring back the popular Lilac Party in May. The tradition dates back to when the Tubbs brothers owned the property. The brothers would host the party as a way to honor spring and welcome friends to the property. Information on the party will be coming in the next few months.
Willowwood is open daily from 8:00 A.M. to dusk. Admission to the park is free and donations to the Willowwood Foundation are tax-deductible. To learn more about the Willowwood Arboretum, visit willowwoodarboretum.org.

Pumpkin & Apple Picking Ready
for the Taking
By Cheryl Conway
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, pumpkin and apple picking season is ripe. Like the haystacks that pile up for that fall harvest, so do the area farms that are packed with family-friendly activities, fresh cider donuts or a perfect backdrop for fall photos.
Other family outings can involve spooky trips, harvest festivals and farmers markets. Here are some of the local hotspots to visit this fall to meet those diverse interests.

1. Ort Farms, Long Valley
A local favorite for years, Ort Farms delivers more than just pumpkins. Visitors can hop on hayrides, explore a corn maze, visit the farm animals or enjoy farm-fresh produce. Their newly expanded farm store is packed with homemade pies, apple cider, crafts, homemade granola, and, of course, those irresistible cider donuts. It’s the perfect stop for a full day of family fun!
2. Alstede Farms, Chester
Alstede Farms is known for its large selection of pumpkins and autumn activities. Beyond pumpkin picking, families can enjoy apple picking, sunflower mazes, and live entertainment on weekends. Make sure to try their fresh-pressed apple cider and homemade ice cream. Check out its website to Experience the Magic of Autumn at Harvest Moon Nights for nighttime corn maze and hayrides, food, live music, ironbound hard cider, and more
3. Riamede Farm, Chester
For a more traditional, low-key experience, Riamede Farm is the place to be. This charming farm offers a quieter atmosphere with a wide variety of pumpkins, gourds and an abundances of apples to pick. It’s the perfect spot for families who want to focus on choosing their best fall produce minus spooky frills and thrills. Known as an old-fashioned apple farm, it is New Jersey’s oldest with vintage apple trees nestled on 68 acres of orchards.
4. Stony Hill Farms,  Chester
If you’re looking for a full fall experience, Stony Hill Farms is a must-visit. In addition to pumpkins, they offer an 11-acre corn maze, a maze fun park for kids and hayrides. Their bakery is also top-notch, offering homemade pies, cookies and more seasonal goodies.
5. West End Farmers Market, Hackettstown
West End Farmers Market is the perfect local spot on Sunday mornings for fresh produce from local farms, pumpkins, and fall decorations to bring the season’s spirit to your home.  Check out at least 25 awesome vendors and a wide variety of local produce, meats, baked goods, coffee, prepared food, jewelry, self-care products and so much more!
6. Donaldson Farms, Hackettstown
Enjoy this farm market and family fun seasonally stocked with fresh fruits and vegetables, raw honey, fresh baked pies and goods. Pick your own raspberries and apples and enjoy fall harvest weekends with favorite activities like hayrides to the apple orchard and pumpkin patch, nine-acre corn maze, pony rides, hayrides and more.
7. Ashley Farms, Flanders
This fourth-generation family farm specializes in home grown turkeys, sweet corn, tomatoes and other fresh vegetables. Apple pies, home-baked treats, apple cider donuts and fresh apple cider are hard to resist. While not a full-blown pumpkin patch, pumpkins are grown and sold at all different sizes.  For décor, check out its fall decorations, gourds, cornstalks and colorful hardy mums.
8. Sun High Orchards, Randolph
Sun High Orchards offers a charming apple-picking experience with a smaller, less crowded feel. In addition to their apple orchards, the farm has a petting zoo, pumpkin picking, hayrides and a market featuring homemade pies, jams, and freshly baked breads.
9.  Open House at The Stickley Museum,  Morris Plains
On October 26, from noon to 4 p.m., visitors are invited for free to visit the historic log house at the Stickley Museum. The house will be decorated with period appropriate Halloween decorations. Family friendly for all ages.
10. Waterloo Village, Stanhope
Waterloo Village is a beautifully preserved 19th-century canal town, and during October, it can be a hub for a spooky tour and history walk. Visitors can explore old buildings rumored to be haunted and eerie happenings from the past.
Tips for Visiting Farms and Pumpkin Patches
Check website or call ahead to make sure the farm or site is open.

• Go early: Avoid the afternoon crowds by arriving early. This will give more time to explore without feeling rushed.
• Bring a wagon: Pumpkin patches can be large, and little legs can get tired quickly. A wagon is perfect for carrying both pumpkins and small children.
• Pack snacks and water: Even though many farms offer food, it’s always a good idea to bring snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy and hydrated.
• Dress appropriately: Fall weather can be unpredictable. Layer up, wear comfortable shoes and bring along a pair of boots since pumpkin patches can be muddy.
• Let the kids choose: While the great big pumpkin has been identified, let the kids pick their own smaller ones to make them feel more involved in the fun!

New Jersey Paralympian Recounts
Special Paris Games Experience
By Megan Roche
Catarina Guimaraes remembers competing for the first time on the track. She was 12 years old and was facing competitors much older than her with just two months of training under her belt. She smoked the competition and won against seven other males.
“I just remember thinking ‘I can do that again’,” Guimaraes said.
Leaving behind taekwondo, a sport she competed in for 10 years, Guimaraes chose to focus on track and field fulltime. In 2019 at the ParaPan American Games, Guimaraes walked away with a bronze medal in the 400m dash.
“From that point on, I decided that I was going to work so that the next time I competed, it wasn’t a bronze, but a gold or a silver,” Guimaraes said.
To qualify for the Paris Paralympics, Guimaraes had to meet a certain set of standards according to her classification status. While competing at the Paralympic Trials, Guimaraes points from her finish became a percentage of those standards. At the end of the Trials, everyone’s name gets added to a list and the top 24 females and top 26 men advance and become official Paralympians.
“I think what made the Paralympics so special was that I really had to dig deep to become a Paralympian. I just kept telling myself that I wanted to be a Paralympian. While I won my very first track meet I ever competed in, I wasn’t naturally gifted in track the way that a lot of the national team athletes are. Being a Paralympian was like everything that I had been working towards the past five years, all the literal blood, sweat, and tears, the ups, the downs, the being overlooked, the feeling out of place, the joining club teams and racing against 14 year olds and getting my butt kicked…all of that came down to me being able to call myself a Paralympian,” Guimaraes said.
When she arrived in Paris this past summer, Guimaraes was trying to soak in every moment.
“I remember arriving for my first world championships and feeling like an imposter. I didn’t feel like I was supposed to be there, let alone good enough to be there. For the Paralympics, I didn’t feel that way at all. As I was walking around the village, I saw my competitors, I saw other athletes, I saw previous world record holders and medalists, and I really felt like I belonged and was ready to compete at the elite level,” Guimaraes said.
When she stepped on the track for the first time in Paris, Guimaraes recalled looking up into the stands for the first time.
“I remember looking up into the stands and thinking ‘that’s a lot of people’. I just remember thinking that I wanted to put on a show for everyone watching the race. I wanted to be entertaining. Yes, I was there to win, but I was also there to entertain at the same time. There’s nothing like getting a crowd to clap for you, there is nothing like getting a whole stadium cheering for you,” Guimaraes said.
While she didn’t place, Guimaraes returned home to New Jersey with no regrets. 
“I know that I didn’t choke under the pressure. The reason why I didn’t win wasn’t because I didn’t perform to my capabilities, it was simply because everyone else had an even better day. Even though I gave it my best, my personal best wasn’t enough to beat my competitors and that’s okay,” Guimaraes said.
Though she has Cerebral Palsy, Guimaraes doesn’t let anything stop her. She hopes that those who want to be where she is one day continue to love their sport.
“No matter what sport you are doing, make sure you are having fun, make sure that you are finding joy in your sport, and just do your best. Some of my worst performances were when I was stressed out and concerned about beating someone or running a certain time,” Guimaraes said.
Looking ahead, Guimaraes hopes to be named to the 2028 Paralympic Games, set to take place in Los Angeles, CA from Aug. 22 to Sept. 3.

Dental Decay Tied To Heart Attacks & Stroke

Dental decay, commonly known as cavities, is easily controllable when caught early.  Routine fillings help prevent small cavities from becoming larger ones, that eventually risk the need for root canals or extractions.
There is a specific bacteria called S. Mutans that causes and exacerbates cavities.  This bacteria has been found in heart valves and plaques found in coronary arteries; some researchers feel S. mutans therefore may play a potential role in the development of atherosclerosis.
There is a large, prospective, ongoing, long-term epidemiological study called Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC): one aspect of this study found regular dental care could reduce the risk of stroke by 23%.  Interestingly, the same study found the link between cavities and stroke to be higher in African Americans than in Caucasians.  It also found the number of surfaces of a tooth affected by decay caused an increase risk of stroke and death.
The study reports regular dental care was shown to reduce the risk of developing cavities by fivefold.  Regular dental care also helps to keep periodontal disease (commonly known as gum disease) at bay.  Periodontal disease is more commonly directly associated with cardiovascular events such as heart attacks due to chronic, low-grade systemic inflammation than decay.  However, the link of S. mutans within the plaques is what is causing interest.
So what can you do to keep yourself and your loved ones out of trouble?  Regular home dental care such as brushing and flossing is the most obvious.  Diets low in sugar are also important (not just for your teeth, but also for your body’s sugar balances).  Routine professional dental visits are paramount, too:  dental examinations, treatment of cavities, and cleanings to control periodontal disease are effective.
Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist & implant expert with 29 years of experience.  He is located in the Roxbury Mall in Succasunna, NJ.  He provides general dentistry for the entire family, including: cleanings, check-ups, whitening, veneers, crowns, root canals, dentures, periodontal (gum) services, dental implants, and much more.  He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Implantology/Implant Dentistry, a Scholar of the Dawson Center for Comprehensive Dentistry and is recognized as an expert in dental implants.  You can find additional information on his website:www.morriscountydentist.com.  The office can be reached at: (973) 328-1225 or via email: frontdesk.mcda@gmail.com

New Jersey Gymnast Appearing on Gold Over
America Tour with US Gymnastics Royalty
By Megan Roche

16-year-old Hezly Rivera has accomplished a lot in the last few months; earning an Olympic team spot, winning a gold medal, beginning to look at colleges, and now heading out on a post-Olympic gymnastics tour with some of USA Gymnastics best.
After securing a place on Team USA’s women’s artistic gymnastics team earlier this summer, Rivera was busy training before her Olympic debut. In Paris, she contributed to the success of Team USA during the qualifying round of competition. While she did not compete in the team finals portion, she still earned herself a gold medal during the highly-coveted women’s artistic gymnastics competition.
While Rivera was part of the team that won the gold medal during the Paris Olympic Games, she is no stranger to the spotlight. In 2023, Rivera won the junior U.S. National Championship title, she’s won two silver medals at the Junior World Championships, and is a four-time member of the US Women’s National Gymnastics team. She is the 2024 Winter Cup balance beam champion and all around and floor exercise bronze medalist.
Rivera is now touring the country as a member of the Gold Over America Tour. The tour showcases gymnastics skills, fun choreography, while also working to promote inspiring messages. After a successful Olympic Games performance for both the women and men of Team USA artistic gymnastics, the show is a celebratory cap on a winning year.
The 30-city tour will travel across the U.S. during the fall and hit various arenas. Rivera’s hometown show was Oct. 1 at Prudential Center.
“The Gold Over America Tour enables fans to see some of the world’s best gymnasts in a celebratory, non-competitive environment,” USA Gymnastics President and CEO Li Li Leung said in a press release. “Having the tour at the end of one of the biggest years ever for the sport provides a great opportunity for athletes and fans alike.”
On tour with Rivera are Simone Biles, Jade Carey, Jordan Chiles, Paul Juda, Brody Malone, Yul Moldauer, Frederick Richard, Joscelyn Roberson, Shane Wiskus, Ellie Black, Ian Gunther, Peng-Peng Lee, Katelyn Ohashi, Melanie Johanna De Jesus Dos Santos, Casimir Schmidt, Trinity Thomas, and Donnell Whittenburg.
Originally from Oradell, Rivera began her gymnastics journey after attending a birthday party for a friend. She competed for ENA Gymnastics in Paramus before moving to Texas to train with Valeri Liukin, father of 2008 all-around gold medalist Nastia Liukin.
While she attends high school virtually, Rivera has also started attending official recruiting visits to major schools like the University of Florida and the University of Oklahoma. She plans to attend college and hopes to earn a full academic scholarship and compete in NCAA gymnastics.
To learn more about Rivera and follow her on her Gold Over America Tour journey, follow her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/hezrivera.
 

A Most Precious and Enduring Life Lesson
By Richard Mabey Jr.

When I was attending Boonton High School, I was a very sincere, serious student. I took my studies very serious and made the Honor Roll all throughout high school. I was not good at sports, as my Mitral Valve had been damaged when I was 12 years old, in my year-long battle with Rheumatic Fever. I found my glory, my happiness, my contribution to dear old BHS, in my God-given talent to play the drums and to put words down on paper. I was a drummer in the school marching band and very rarely missed playing the drums in the band at football games and in various community parades. I contributed articles to my school paper and wrote articles for the old Lincoln Park Herald.
On the home front, in my little hometown of Lincoln Park, there were two things that held the highest importance for me, church and scouts. I attended Sunday School, church and Youth Fellowship faithfully. I had a burning desire, an obsession of sorts, to become an Eagle Scout. When I completed my freshman year at BHS, in June of 1968, I had a total of 15 Merit Badges, Twenty-one Merit Badges were required to earn the coveted rank of Eagle Scout. My beloved father was my Dad and Scoutmaster. I remember a very serious conversation Dad and I had at his workbench in the basement of the old Mabey Homestead. Dad told me that it was time for me to start thinking about starting my Service Project for Eagle Scout.
A small miracle unfolded, right before my very eyes. Mr. King (oddly enough, I never did learn his first name) was the Sexton of Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church of Lincoln Park. The very church that sponsored Boy Scout Troop 170. One Friday evening, in early June of 1968, Mr. King asked my father if any boys needed service projects for their scout ranks. That there was a lot of work that needed to be done at the church.
I was standing there, beside my father and Mr. King, just outside Thorpe Hall of Saint Andrew’s Church, when Dad and Mr. King had this conversation. I was a shy boy. So, this was a big step for me. I remember that I got the courage and spoke up and told Mr. King I would help him with chores around the church, for my Eagle Scout Service Project. I remember that Mr. King’s face lit up like a Coleman Lantern, at a night-time scout campsite.
We talked about it for a few minutes and I agreed to meet with Mr. King, the morning of the next day, which of course was a Saturday. During our Saturday morning Mr. King explained all that needed to be done. This included mowing the lawn, raking leaves, washing windows and a list of other chores. Right then and there, I agreed to take on the job, for my Eagle Scout Service Project.
I rode my bicycle home, and during lunch at the old Mabey Homestead, enthusiastically told Dad of my plans for my Eagle Scout Service Project. I do remember that in the midst of our lunch time conversation, my Mom voiced concern that she thought it might take away time away from my studies. I remember my Dad telling Mom, “I don’t think it’ll hurt the boy. We got a thoroughbred for a son.” My Dad often referred to me as a “thoroughbred of a son.” It always gave me such a big boost and good feeling in my heart center.
Long story short, for one year of my life I met with Mr. King every Saturday morning and did basic, mundane chores for Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church, till about four o’clock in the afternoon. From June of 1968 till June of 1969, I put in all so many hours of real, down-home labor for that dear, beloved church. I developed a most respectful friendship with Mr. King.
Mr. King shared much of his wisdom and insight into life, with me, during that year. “If your going to do a job, do it right,” was one of Mr. King’s favorite little sayings that he would share with me. “You can overlook the leaves between the hedges, and most people won’t notice it, but the good Lord will,” was another one of Mr. King’s little sayings that he would tell me. I learned all so much from Mr. King that year. Mostly, that serving God in the most humble way, in doing mundane chores, was just as important to the good Lord as being the Minister.
Sadly, my friendship with Mr. King drifted away after that heart-warming year of service to Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church. We did not have a disagreement, nor anything like that. It was just one of those things, just the way life is at times.
It is late August, of this year, as I write this true-life story. Yesterday, I just got home from a short-stay hospital visit. I had yet another Cardiac Catheterization and some other cardiac tests done. During that time, at the hospital, I reflected upon Mr. King. How he served God in very real practical ways. How he rolled up his sleeves and worked hard, doing mundane jobs that some other people may have chosen to stick their nose up in the air at. It’s just the way it is.
I seriously doubt if Mr. King is still with us, on this side of Heaven’s Gate. Still, a part of him lives on in my heart and inner self. Now at 70, I have become more aware of all that I owe Mr. King for helping to shape me into the man that I now am. It’s a debt I can only recognize and never repay.
Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@gmail.com.

New Morris County School of Technology Aviation Academy Giving Students the Wings to Fly
By Megan Roche
It’s been a program that Morris County School of Technology has wanted to launch for a long time and the school is now all systems go for the new aviation academy, set to take off during the 2025-2026 school year.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Morris County Vocational School District was very interested in starting an aviation program. After attending an Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) conference, the district began to roll around ideas on how to launch an aviation program. Being sidelined by COVID, the idea was put on hold until this year.
Roxbury High School, who has an established aviation program, as well as aviation education certified teachers, was the perfect fit. With flight simulators and a Cessna 310 plane already on campus, Roxbury High School approached the Morris County School of Technology to create an academy geared toward aviation education for all students in Morris County.
“There is a huge demand for more pilots and also drone pilots. The program is not just about aircraft piloting, it’s also about drone piloting. The program really focuses on aviation as a whole, not just what it takes to be a commercial airline pilot,” Shari Castelli, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, said.
Incoming ninth graders will be exposed to the world of aviation during their freshman year as part of the introduction to aviation class. They will explore potential career opportunities within aviation along with 10 hours of aviation experience. In 10^th grade, students will explore pilot pathways, drone technologies, and gain 15 hours of aviation experience. As a junior, students will continue to explore pilot pathways and gain 20 hours of aviation experience.
As a senior, students have the option of taking courses at County College of Morris, completing an internship, or learning more about meteorology, drone fabrication, autonomous flights, and continue their career exploration.
“There are so many different career pathways that they can pursue within the aviation industry. It takes awhile to get certified and trained in anything relating to the aviation industry so being in this academy will give those students an early start,” Castelli said. 
Students will also be able to apply for their drone pilots license and complete the ground school requirement to become a private pilot. Students will have to complete actual flight school on their own time.
The academy will be taught by Mike Gottfried and Chris Blough, Roxbury High School Geophysical Science, Physics, and Aviation teachers. Gottfried is also a private pilot, while Blough is a member of the Civil Air Patrol. Both are licensed drone pilots.
The academy, which will be housed at Roxbury High School, is open to all incoming ninth graders in any Morris County school district. The application process is currently ongoing and anyone with an interest is urged to apply before the November 18 application deadline. Interested students can also attend an information session on October 30 at 6:30 PM in the cafeteria at Roxbury High School. 
The application and more information is available online at www.mcvts.org.

Eleventh Hour Rescue Fall Events
Eleventh Hour Rescue, a Morris-county based animal rescue, is holding several local adoption, fundraising, and educational events this fall.
The lineup starts with Puptoberfest on Saturday, October 5, from 11am – 4:30 pm, at Horseshoe Lake, 72 Eyland Avenue in Succasunna, NJ. This is the rescue’s biggest event of the year, featuring adoptable animals, children’s activities and games, food trucks, vendors, a 75-basket tricky tray, and more. Tickets can be purchased at givebutter.com/pfest24.
On Saturday, October 12, from 12-4pm, the Cool Cats & Hogs for Dogs event will feature adoptable dogs and cats from Eleventh Hour Rescue. It will be held at the Garden State Harley Davidson store at 1771 Route 10 East in Morris Plains, NJ.
The Feral Cat Awareness Workshop on Saturday, October 19, from 12-3pm, will be held at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall Adoption Center at 301 Mt. Hope Ave, Rockaway, NJ (lower level under Food Court). This free educational event is for anyone who wants to help with the cat overpopulation problem and learn how to build winter cat enclosures. Refreshments are included.
Back by popular demand on Saturday, October 19, from 6-10pm, the Battle of the Brainy Breeds Trivia & Pierogi Night will be held at Vasa Park, 1 Vasa Drive in Hackettstown, NJ. Tickets are $35 per person, and the price includes trivia hosted by Trivia Revolution, all-you-can-eat pierogies and sides, dessert, and coffee/tea. Soda and alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Tickets can be purchased at ehrevents.org/trivia-and-pierogi-night.
On Friday, October 25, from 5-9:30 pm, the Halloween Hops & Howls beer, music, food, and adoption event will be held at Jersey Girl Brewing Co., at 426 Sand Shore Road in Mount Olive, NJ. Includes activities, a costume contest (humans only), music by Action Park, food by Pudgy’s Famous Fries, and photos by Joseph Frazz Photography.
To find out more about any of the fall Eleventh Hour Rescue events, visit ehrevents.org.
Eleventh Hour Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-based organization dedicated to saving the lives of innocent dogs and cats on death row. They give their dogs and cats all the medical attention they require, a place to live, and, through their extensive adoption services, a second chance at a happy and fulfilled life. They are not subsidized by government grants and receive no major corporate funding, relying solely on the generosity of volunteers, the community, and animal lovers everywhere.

Morris County Native Launches Positivitees,
a Company Meant to Inspire Change 
By Megan Roche

Ron Terebecke’s position had been eliminated at a job he’d put years into. Knowing he didn’t want to retire just yet, he wasn’t sure what he was going to do.
“My job was recently eliminated after 32 years of service.  It gave me some time to think about what to do next.  I am going back to work for a few years before retiring, but in the meantime I wanted to do something meaningful,” Terebecke says.
That’s when the idea for Positivitees came to him. Positivitees is a t-shirt company that features various positive messages across the brand. The goal is to remind folks to be kind, all the time.
“It wasn’t long ago when people would make eye contact, smile, and greet each other as their paths crossed.  The division in the world today is alarming.  We can disagree and still be civil.  I hope people can see a message that hits home and leads to a call to a family member, friend, with an apology, thank you, I understand, just checking in, or anything to help mend a relationship.  I hope someone can see a smile, give grace, be kind, do unto others and feel better even for a moment,” Terebecke said.
20% of all sales also gets donated back to various charities, including the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Each shirt costs $22.65, and there are even options to customize. Free shipping is available on all orders over $75.
As the business continues to grow, Terebecke hopes to add even more charities to the support list.
“We would like to reach as many people as possible.  The goal is to make it as affordable as possible so everyone can spread the message and support those in need.  The more we grow the business, the more charities we can help.  Mental health and addiction and feeding the hungry in the United States are a couple of ideas for new charities.  While this is a business to help us live a more comfortable retirement, we don’t need much.  The more the business grows, the bigger the percentage for charities and the more charities we can reach,” he says.
Ultimately, Terebecke hopes to inspire change and kindness with the company.
“We are all on this planet for a short time.  We can be kind, respectful and love our neighbors.  We can spread positivity and help others through charities,” Terebecke said.
While there is no brick-and-mortar storefront, the business operates solely off its website, www.thepositivitees.com. Orders can be made through the site and are then shipped via mail to purchasers.
In the future, Terebecke hopes to add more positive quotes and anecdotes to his line. He also hopes to start printing in house so a higher percentage of profits can be donated to more charities.
To place an order, visit www.thepositivitees.com.

New Jersey native astronaut Reisman honored with interactive Air and Space Exhibit at Brookdale CC
by Jeff Garrett
It’s been 15 months plus since the Garrett Resiman Center for Air & Space opened in the STEAM Wing at the Monmouth Museum at Brookdale Community College.
The not-so-new exhibit is named after astronaut Garrett Reisman, a New Jersey native born in Morristown who has flown on all three space shuttles including the shuttle Endeavor in 2008, which saw him at the International Space Station for a 95-day stint. Reisman attended public schools in Parsippany and has been a senior advisor at SpaceX and Technical Consultant for Apple TV+’s “For All Mankind” during his career.
Continuously well- attended, the Reisman Center is the next step forward in teaching concepts of Space discovery from a local phemom, if you will  (how many of us can boast of literally, being in Space?).  And, Reisman’s NSA flightsuit and Russian flightsuit are on display at the museum.
Also on display are NASA artifacts like an Apollo glove and helmet and Lego collection. The International Space Station, Saturn 5 Rocket and Lunar Lander are present for all to see. All of these advancements to Space exploration were designed by fellow New Jersey native, Dominic Ranieri of Oceanport.
So why Brookdale for this exhibit and why Reisman ?
Monmouth Museum Executive Director, Erika Schaefer, said the idea came during the Covid-lockdown.  She wanted to create a place where science, technology, engineering and mathematics – all components of STEM, could be presented to museum visitors in an interactive and creative format.
She researched astronauts, learned about Garrett Reisman and got in touch with him.      He responded instantly to her email and from there a partnership was born.
Schaefer believes that the thought of anyone pursuing a career in Space exploration becomes more realistic with an exhibit like this before people’s eyes.  Pieces of the Apollo continue to be onsite and will stay for a few more years at the Reisman Center.  The second floor is permanently named after Garrett. Folks can expect to see new displays and exhibits in the future as they visit over the next decade; the idea is to vary visuals so folks learn even more about advancements in Air and Space.
Reisman spent 107 days plus in Space having completed a total of three EVA’s (extra-vehicular activities) totaling a little over 21 hours.  He was aboard the shuttle Atlantis  and executed three spacewalks while operating the Space Station Robot Arm in 2010.
Garrett’s accomplishments in Space rival his experiences underwater – to an extent. Reisman was an aquanaut and served as a crew member on NEEMO V and lived on the bottom the sea in the Aquarius deep underwater setting for 14 days. From 2011 through 2018, the Morristown-native worked with Elon Musk at Space X where he helped in several capacities. Since Summer 2018, he’s been a professor of Astronautical engineering in the Viterbi School at the University of Southern California while continuing to serve as an advisor to SpaceX.
The Becker STEAM Wing & Garrett Reisman Center at Monmouth Museum is open to the public on Thursdays and Fridays between 10am and 2pm and on Saturdays and Sundays between 10am-4pm. Logon to www.monmouthmuseum .org for more information.

NJ Starz: David Tyree
Hometown: Montclair
 By Megan Roche

David Tyree is most notably known for his legendary fourth quarter Super Bowl catch that put the New York Giants ahead of the New England Patriots in February 2008. But, the superstar is far more than just a former football star.
Tyree, who was born in nearby Livingston, recalls moving to the area and seeing what a football town Montclair really was.
“I moved here in fifth grade and it was abundantly clear that Montclair football was deeply embedded into the social construct and community. It was really just the next thing to do, it was a really neat thing. I just got the sense that football was a big part of this town,” Tyree said.
Tyree headed to Montclair High School as a member of the Class of 1998. During his years on the gridiron at MHS, Tyree came to the realization through the help of his sister that football might lead the way to a college education.
“My sister really showed me the potential that playing high school football could lead to a college scholarship. After my young and dumb run ins with the law, I had to really make a decision about changing the crowd I was with. That was when I really decided to lock in and focus on that next step,” Tyree admits.
After graduating and leaving the halls of Montclair High School, Tyree did indeed end up with a football scholarship. He headed up to Syracuse University, where he was a member of the special teams unit and played wide receiver for the college.
“Syracuse was tough. It was awesome, but it was tough. I think it was awesome because I endured it and I grew from it, I let the adversity cultivate and shape the player and the person that I became from a standpoint of mindset. That was the greatest reward, I became a person who didn’t believe in excuses. I was always looking for the opportunity to make an impact, I never saw a less-than-ideal situation as a loss,” Tyree said.
During the 2003 National Football League (NFL) Draft, Tyree was selected by the New York Giants in the sixth round. Hailing from Montclair, Tyree’s commute to Giants Stadium was just a mere ride down Route 3.
“It was like a Cinderella story for me. To be getting that call, late in the sixth round, I’m pretty much falling asleep, dozing off watching the draft, not really expecting anything but hopeful that something was coming. The phone rings and it’s the Giants. I hang up the phone and I realize that in order for me to report, all I have to do is drive down the road, there’s no flight, no train, it was surreal,” Tyree shared.
During his career in the NFL, Tyree had 54 receptions, 650 receiving yards, and 4 receiving touchdowns. He was a Super Bowl Champion, part of the 2005 First-team All-Pro, selected to the Pro Bowl in 2005, and was part of the 2003 PFWA All-Rookie Team.
In his 2007-2008 season with the New York Giants, Tyree was able to secure a place on the Super Bowl roster.
“For me, there was a lot of preparation leading up to the week of the Super Bowl. You get a week to kind of get your affairs in order, so it’s pretty strategic in relation to trying to maintain a sense of normalcy and routine while all the excitement and fanfare is going around in that once in a lifetime moment,” Tyree recalled.
It was during that game that Tyree earned his rightful place in football history. Late in the fourth quarter, with the New England Patriots leading the game, Eli Manning and the New York Giants took to the field to attempt to drive for one last touchdown. With 2:42 left on the clock, the Giants knew they had work to do.
After converting on a fourth down, the clock showed 1:15 left in the game. On the next set of downs, the Giants ended up with a 3^rd and 5. The play to come would help seal the deal.
Tyree’s website explains it perfectly, “On third down, Manning snapped the ball at his own 44-yard line and immediately found himself in trouble. With a heavy Patriots pass rush in his face, Manning somehow eluded pressure from Adalius Thomas and evaded the grasp of Jarvis Green and Richard Seymour as the pocket collapsed. Manning then rolled out before dropping back and setting his feet to launch a ball down the field to Tyree, who was surrounded by defenders and had safety Rodney Harrison draped all over his back. With the ball in the air, Tyree perfectly timed his jump to catch it at the peak of its arc. Harrison immediately attempted to knock the ball from his possession as he came down with it, but Tyree locked it onto his helmet with incredible strength from his right hand before hitting the ground and securing it with both hands. Somehow, Tyree maintained control the entire time, and the ball never hit the ground.”
Shortly after that play, Manning found Plaxico Burress in the endzone to put the Giants ahead with 35 seconds left in the game. When the clock hit zero, the Giants were World Champions by a score of 17-14.
Helmet catch was Tyree’s last ever career catch in the NFL.
“That play is a culmination of my entire body of work. I feel like I was the little engine that could. I was always a guy who earned opportunities to never really see them come to fulfillment, I was always a guy who was not desired but able and qualified. Helmet Catch for me was when I realized that I wasn’t just a special teams player, it was when I realized that I was a pretty good receiver, and that was my moment of fulfillment,” Tyree shared.
After retiring from the NFL in 2010 as a New York Giant, Tyree has now made it his mission to talk to young people about the dangers of addiction, a place he found himself in early on in his life.
“Life is all about the journey and it’s about overcoming the hurdles, the obstacles, the problems. These kids today need to know that all things are possible. I have definitely dragged my knees through the mud and made all kinds of poor decisions but I had to learn how to take ownership and accountability for my actions, while growing and not being paralyzed by gripping circumstances or situations,” Tyree shared.
Tyree has also recently launched the Catch the Moment podcast series.
“Being a person with a platform, I know how it feels to be someone who has a moment but where there was so much that it took to get to that moment of success. I wanted to give others a platform to identify their pinnacle moment of success and to be able to talk about what it took for them to get there. The whole meaning behind the podcast is to celebrate and elevate,” Tyree said.
For all those young people he mentors, his advice stays the same.
“Get off the sidelines. The worst thing we can do is mull an opportunity out of fear. My lord said you do and then you’ll know. The more that you, the better you’ll get. At the end of the day, you’ll find out exactly who you are if you hurry up and get involved and when you do make that commitment, make the necessary sacrifices to be the best,” Tyree says.
To learn more about Tyree, visit www.davidtyree85.com.

So Kind Be Thy Heart,

A Dear Remembrance of Uncle Pete

By Richard Mabey Jr.
Mourning is one of the most painful, eerie, haunting, heart-wrenching emotions of all time. In the process of mourning the passing of a close loved one, it can seem to tear a person’s heart in two. Yes, there is comfort in knowing that there is a loving God, guiding the universe. Yet still, the pains of mourning, can at times, seem most unbearable.
My father went Home to be with the Lord in the early morning of the twelfth of May of 2006. Over 18 years have now passed since that fateful day. Still, I so very dearly miss the man who taught me the wild and wonderful ways of nature. To quietliy approach a white-tailed deer, without being noticed. To find north, through the secret hints in a forest. And to love and respect, the way God created the circle of life.
During the couple of weeks, after my dear father’s passing, I became practically dysfunctional. I had been writing for a big daily newspaper in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania at the time. Mostly writing feature stories. But something was not clicking with my creative outlet. I would look at a blank computer screen for hours. The words simply would not come.
Then, a miracle came into my life. In that last week of May of 2006, my uncle, Peter Knothe called me. He asked me if I wanted to come out to his farm in Randolph for a few weeks, to help him and his son with some of the farm chores. I remember I was hesitant at the time, and asked Uncle Pete if I could think about it for a bit. He told me that would be okay, to take time to think about it.
My Editor at the newspaper was very understanding. She told me it might do me good to take the time to visit with my uncle for a while. Long story short, I took Uncle Pete up on his kind offer.
Uncle Pete and his son, Peter, are two of the hardest working men whom I have ever known in my life. They were both up at the crack of dawn and worked hard, till the sun set in the west of dear old Knothe Farm.
What I remember most about my few weeks, working at Knothe Farm with Uncle Pete, during the early Summer of 2006, is the time we had to talk at the old kitchen table, eating breakfast. Most ot the time, my cousin Peter would have already eaten breakfast. Cousin Peter is an incredible early riser. Most of the time, awakening before the sun has even risen.
There are very few people, who I have ever known, that knew the Bible as well as Uncle Pete did. He could recite passages, word for word, with amazing accuracy. In our breakfast talks, Uncle Pete, would share with me his philosophy, his outlook, his perspectives on all of life. Not only did Uncle Pete know his Bible, inside and out, he truly lived it. He was one of the kindest individuals to whom I have ever known.
Uncle Pete’s breakfast talks immensely helped me with healing from the depth of mourning that I was feeling from the loss of my father. Uncle Pete had a great insight into human nature. He deeply understood a person’s relationship to God and God’s relationship to an individual. Uncle Pete held a deep respect and immense love for all of life itself. He served for many years as an Elder in his church.
Sadly, in April of 2018, the angels called Uncle Pete Home to Heaven. In reflection, as I am about to turn 71 years old, as I write this true-life story, a certain appreciation for Uncle Pete fills my heart. After my father passed away, Uncle Pete became my adopted father. He didn’t miss a beat. I am immensely grateful to him. I miss him very much.
Do you know someone who is mourning the loss of a close loved one? Please do consider reaching out to them, above and beyond the traditional sympathy card. Love has a powerful healing potential. It is greater than any pill or tonic on the market today. Love can be as gentle as the petal of a rose. And yet, be more powerful than a fast back, mid-engine Porsche. Never underestimate the incredible power of love. Never, ever doubt what the loving heart can accomplish. When love and faith in God, combine together, expect a miracle.
Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He hosts a YouTube Channel titled, “Richard Mabey Presents.” He can be reached at richardmabeyjr@gmail.com.