Vol. 1 No. 10
Vol. 1 No. 10
Vol. 1 No. 10
C
ontinuing its tradition, Lenape demonstrate a passion for the subject mat-
Valley Regional High School has ter and who improve the overall school
Enter to win 4 tickets to recognized senior Raquel community. This month’s students were
Sparacino, junior Carly Kirk, sophomore selected by the Social Studies department.
“Disney on Ice” November 17-22 Bobby Olivo, and freshman Andrew Burke Lenape Valley Principal Mr. Doug
at the Prudential Center. as September’s Students of the Month. deMarrais said these students’ selections
Each month a specific department’s fac- “speak volumes about [the students’] com-
To enter go to ulty selects students who strive to reach mitments to their future and the values that
their potential, who are positive contribu- have been instilled in them.”
www.musconetcongnews.com tors to the learning environment, who
T
he Hopatcong Junior Chiefs wrestling program needs help from the communi-
ty to purchase a new mat. Hopatcong is the two-time defending Sussex County
Tournament champions. The current mat has been refurbished too many times,
leaving no option but to purchase a new mat. The purchase price of a new wrestling
mat is $8,000 to $10,000. Anyone who would like to help can send a donation to the
Hopatcong Jr. Chiefs Wrestling Mat
Fund, P.O. Box 227, Hopatcong, NJ
07843. For further information, please
call Colette Ioffredo at 201-230-7228
or Mike Cahn at 973-670-4489.
L
enape Valley Regional High School painting words and designs onto small
Interact Club recently held its annu- ceramic hearts as part of the Hearts of Hope
al challenge night in part to benefit cause. These hearts will be sent to people
Hearts of Hope. who are ill or have recently lost a loved one.
The event on September 24 saw over 80 Hearts of Hope is located in Montville,
students spending a fun filled evening to New Jersey. If you would like more infor-
promote club spirit and complete their first mation about this cause, please visit their
service project. Students spent the evening website at http://ourheartsofhope.org/cms/.
NOW REGISTERING
INFANTS - 6 YEARS
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Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009 • Page 5
A
wesome talent, for seniors and children 8- show. Special needs are supervisors Bob Keppel and 5 Vista Drive, Flanders, NJ07836
record-setting 15. A big draw this past sea- addressed with respect. The Jim DeYoung, and all the 973-262-2156
The Musconetcong is
crowds, tasty food, son was free admission for audiences are not just num- volunteers at Jefferson a 100% Mailed Newspaper circulating to all homes
and an “electric” ambiance all children through age bers on tickets, but individ- Highlights who gave up so and businesses located in
Hopatcong, Stanhope and Netcong
contributed to the great suc- seven when accompanied uals who are taken care of much of their valuable time
cess of the 2009 Camp by a ticket-holding adult. like part of the family. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Next Issue Date: November 6th
Jefferson summer concert This allowed patrons to If you are looking for a Sundays to make this dream Deadline: ovember 19th
series. The largest audi- attend live professional driving destination on a nice a reality. And, of course, To reach us by email
[email protected]
ences in the three-year his- events for no more than the fall day, visit the thanks to everyone who was The views and opinions any syndicated column in this paper, do not reflect
tory of the Amphitheater cost of an evening at the Amphitheater at 81 Weldon part of the audience for sup- the views and opinions of The Musconetcong. We are not responsible for
typographical errors.
were entertained by a varied movies. Road, Lake Hopatcong, N.J. porting this great effort.
group of performers. Entire families, includ- 07849. Visualize what it
New events included the
Nerds making their first
ing grandma and grandpa,
enjoyed the concerts togeth-
looked like on seven sum-
mer Saturday nights with JOAN SIRKIS LAVERY, ESQ.
appearance at the venue, an er. This special venue com- such a beautiful setting and PRACTICE LIMITED TO BANKRUPTCY
Irish music and dance con- bines the “home town feel” a full audience.
cert, and a children’s puppet with stage presentations, Concertgoers: We would
Since 1989
show. Some returning
favorites from past years
were Beatlemania Again,
lighting, and the audio and
visual effects of profession-
al performers who appear at
like your feedback. Please
send an e-mail to jhcon-
[email protected], call
BANKRUPTCY
Johnny Cash and Elvis trib- major arenas and theaters 973-663-5590, or write to ◆ RELIEF FROM CREDITORS
ute concerts, and the around the country. Jefferson Highlights, P.O. ◆ Chapter 7 - Liquidations ◆ Chapter 13 - Wage Earner Plans
Ponytails. The series ended The Camp Jefferson Box 365, Lake Hopatcong,
with a spectacular visual Amphitheater fills a niche N.J. 07849. FREE CONSULTATION
concert featuring the as an upscale entertainment Finally, thanks to the
Amphitheater’s most popu- 683 WASHINGTON STREET • HACKETTSTOWN
venue that is sorely needed Township of Jefferson,
lar group during all three in northwest New Jersey. Mayor Russell Felter, the Evening Hours Available • Call 908.850.6161
seasons, the Poets. The great volunteer staff Township Council, We are a Debt Relief Agency and can help you file for Bankruptcy Relief under the Federal Bankruptcy Act
Adding to the great members treat all ticket- Recreation Director Grace
Mention This Ad & Receive A $25.00 Discount
Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009 • Page 7
Upcoming Events
Don’t Throw Away Friday, October 16 www.palpets.org. Hosted 973-786-5763. time, winning over 200 Best
PAL Annual Tricky Tray – by Pet Adoption League of George Alston: Super In Shows and 600 Group
Those Formal Dresses! Minebrook Golf Club, 500 Hackettstown and Mount Advanced Dog Handling Firsts. Seminar partici-
Schooleys Mountain Road, Olive; 973-584-0095. Seminar (10/17 & 10/18) – pants will develop and
T
he Hopatcong High School junior class is Hackettstown, NJ. Doors Saturday, October 17 Morris K-9 Campus, Aspen refine their skills so they
collecting gently used formal and semi- open at 6 p.m., open to pub- BARKS Semiannual Business Park, 1 Aspen can be more competitive in
formal dresses and prom gowns. Anyone lic, free admission. Join the Garage Sale (Oct 17 & 18) Drive, Randolph, NJ. Sat & the Group and Best in Show
wishing to donate, please contact Moira annual fundraiser at this – Wild West City, Sun, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m; Rings – and be part of the
Capitanelli at 973-770-4576 or e-mail Mary popular event which fea- Lackawanna Dr. (off Route registration at 8:15 a.m., winning circle.
Pluskota at [email protected]. tures great prizes and gifts. 206), Byram, NJ. Sat & open to public, fee. George Prerequisites-previous
Raffle tickets can be pur- Sun, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., open Alston is one of the top pro- attendance at George
chased online at to public, free admission. fessional dog handlers of all Alston’s Handing Seminar
for Beginners, Advanced,
and Observers. sponsored
by Schooleys Mountain
Kennel Club; (973) 627-
2450.
Wednesday, October 21
Stanhope Seniors Club
FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR WEDDINGS,
Meeting - Candidate
FUNERALS AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS
Hot Air Balloon Spinners • Halloween Flags &
Night – Stanhope
Decor • Autumn Bouquets • Mums • Landscaping Presbyterian Church, 100
Main Street, Stanhope, NJ.
14 Lakeside Blvd. • Hopatcong Starts at 7:30 p.m., open to
Homem
973.398.4516 Chocola ade
tes the public. Hear candidates
George Graham (R),
Michael Depew (D), and
Brian Murphy (I) speak
Painted Furniture, about why he should be
Home and Garden Decor, Candles elected to the Borough
CHRISTMAS SHOPPE Council. Sponsored by
Continued on page 20
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Page 8 • Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009
Hopatcong Republican Club Sponsors
Did You Know? “Meet the Candidates Night”
T
he Hopatcong Republican Club This meeting is open to registered
Freeholder Zellman was elected to the
will meet at the Hopatcong Civic Republicans. New members are encour-
Board of Chosen Freeholders in November
Center on October 27, 2009. aged, and should sign up with the executive
of 2000. A resident of Stanhope, NJ, Susan board prior to the meeting. Dues are $15
Doors open at 7:15 p.m. The meeting will
served as Chairman of the Stanhope per year. Please let the club know if you
start promptly at 7:30 p.m. We will have a
Planning Board, and served on the Sussex “Meet the Candidates” night with need assistance in transportation to the
County Planning Board, where she was Republican Candidates for the Chris polls for the November 3, 2009 election.
founding Chairman of the Sussex County Christie Representatives, County, and Polls are open in Hopatcong from 6 a.m. to
Planning Awards. She was instrumental in municipal level. Guest speakers will also 8 p.m.
the formation of the Six County Coalition, be the “Republicans for Hopatcong ticket: Members can also find us on the Web at
which coordinates shared resources and ini- Richard Bunce, Marie Ryder-Galate, and www.sussexcountygop.com/Welcome.htm.
tiatives on transportation, human services Howard Baker.” Refreshments will be Our future events can be found under
and shared services issues in northwest served. “GOP Calendar”.
New Jersey. She also initiated Youth in
County Government Day and Money$mart
Week in Sussex County.
Freeholder Zellman was elected Chairman Freeholder Susan M. Zellman
for 2008-2009 of the North Jersey ing their home ownership goals. She serves
Transportation Planning Authority, which on the Workforce Housing Task Force of
oversees over $3 billion in transportation the New Jersey Department of Community
funding for the 13 northern counties in New Affairs.
Jersey. She is also a Trustee on the Boards A graduate of Bucknell University, she
of TransOptions and New Jersey Future. earned her Master of Arts degree in
Susan is Executive Director of the Housing Communications and Education from
Partnership, a United Way Agency serving Columbia University. A Leadership New
Morris, Sussex and Warren Counties. The Jersey Fellow, she has managed a small
Partnership, which won the Governor’s business and development training for a
Housing Award for Excellence as the Fortune 500 company. An educator for 10
Community Organization of the Year, years, she taught in Stanhope and was an
works with municipalities, organizations adjunct faculty member at Sussex County
and over 3,000 households a year in meet- Community College.
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Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009 • Page 9
T
he method of Trap Neuter-Return (TNR) of feral cats Netcong and met with the town council in September. A
is getting catchy as hopes for the new project spreads decision by the council is expected some time this month,
from Mount Olive to Netcong. she says.
The two neighboring towns held their first adoption day Through TNR, stray cats are trapped, neutered, vaccinat-
on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Country Lakes Animal Clinic ed, ear-tipped, micro-chipped and then returned to their
in Mine Hill. environment to be monitored by volunteers. Currently, nui-
“Within the first 45 minutes, all of the kittens were sance stray cats in Netcong are caught by an animal control
adopted,” says Denise Rieben, organizer of the proposed officer, held for seven days and then euthanized. The same
TNR project in Netcong. Cat lovers from various towns method had been used in Mount Olive until Aug. 4, when
such as Weehawken, Hackettstown, Stanhope and Lake its town council unanimously approved an ordinance for a
Tranquility were the lucky ones to adopt the 10 kittens and permanent TNR program.
one of the four friendly-adult cats. In Netcong, the greatest population of feral cats dwells
Five of the kittens were from Netcong and the other five at the Netcong Heights apartment complex. The apartment
were from Mount Olive along with the adult cat, according manager has been covering the fee to allow Rieben to trap
to Michelle Lerner, coordinator of the Mount Olive TNR these cats to have them spayed/neutered, vaccinated and
Project. The event was so successful that organizers have a ear-tipped. Since July, Rieben along with an experienced
waiting list of people willing to adopt at their next adoption trapper has trapped 60 out of about 180 adult cats and kit-
day. tens from nine of the 36-building complex.
“It was like a stampede,” says Lerner. “I’ve never seen She has been allowed to trap these cats at Netcong
anything like it.” Heights since the complex is privately owned. Rieben,
Adopters paid $55 to People for Animals in Hillside to however, is not allowed to trap throughout the town such as
spay/neuter their kittens. Dr. Kimani Griffith of the Country at dumpsters or restaurants until the council passes an ordi-
Lakes Animal Clinic offered to host the adoption day since nance.
he has served as Rieben’s family veterinarian for the past Rieben’s goal is to organize a committee like in Mount
four years. Olive to run a TNR program in town. The project would
“He’s been wonderful,” says Rieben, a 10-year Netcong save taxpayer’s money since it cost $171 in Netcong to hold
resident. Griffith examined each kitten to make sure they and euthanize each stray cat, as opposed to $55 to neuter,
were healthy enough to adopt out and he plans to offer dis- vaccinate and return each cat.
count office visits for stray kittens and cats through the pro- “I have such a passion for cats and kittens,” says Rieben.
posed TNR project in Netcong, according to Rieben. “Being in my house and knowing that they’re outside in the
“It was just so nice that he helped us this way,” she says.
Continued on page 14
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Page 12 • Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009
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Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009 • Page 13
Comfort Zone Camp: A Fun and Safe Place For Grieving Children
C
omfort Zone Camp is the nation’s largest bereave- The camps combine grief counseling with traditional
ment camp. The camps are offered free of charge to camp activities. A very unique aspect of Comfort Zone
children ages 7-17 who have experienced the death Camp is the one-to-one pairing of children (“little buddies”)
of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver and are held year- to adults (“big buddies”). Many children come to camp
round in California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Texas, and “attention-starved,” as surviving parents or guardians are
Virginia. understandably preoccupied with their own grief. The big
Comfort Zone is set in a rustic camp environment to get buddies serve as the campers’ anchors, mentors and friends.
kids away from the distractions of the real world and create “Bigs” are screened and trained in grief counseling tech-
what we call the “camp bubble.” Within the camp bubble, niques and carefully matched with campers of the same
isolation is broken and turbo-bonding happens because gender who share the same interests
everyone else has lost a loved one too. Kids are given the At Comfort Zone Camp, kids are given:
opportunity to play, share their stories, build trust and A place to tell their stories and feelings – Throughout the
friendships, and receive validation from their peers that camp, kids meet in small groups called Healing CirclesSM.
whatever they are thinking and feeling is okay. All of this The Healing CirclesSM are broken down by age and are led
leads to an increase in self-esteem, and a good time. by licensed grief therapists who interact and support the
E
who plans to become a certified trapper this side the Mount Olive Shoprite on Oct. 3 and leven students at Lenape Valley AP Scholar Award by earning an average
month. Rieben became interested in TNR a yard sale at the grassy area of the After on Regional High School have earned grade of four or higher on a five-point scale
through The Mount Olive TNR Project. She Route 206 on Saturday, Oct. 10. A fundrais- AP Scholar Awards in recognition of on all AP exams taken, and grades of 4 or
has been working with Lerner, who attend- ing dinner at the Flanders Firehouse will be their exceptional achievements on AP higher on eight or more of these exams.
ed the Netcong Council meeting last month scheduled for January or February 2010. exams. Julie Levine, Kristin Newcomer and
to educate members about TNR. Any businesses, homeowners or com- The College Board Advanced Placement Adrianne Speranza qualified for a State AP
The two women have been working plex managers wanting to remove stray cats (AP) Program provides motivated and aca- Scholar Award. The designation of State AP
together in each other’s towns to help foster through the TNR process can call Lerner at demically prepared students with the oppor- Scholar is granted to the one male and one
kittens, hold the adoption day and maybe 973-584-5890 or email her at lerner- tunity to take rigorous college-level courses female student from each state with grades
plan another one for later this month or [email protected]. while still in high school, and to earn col- of 3 or higher on the greatest number of AP
November. For those who would like to help but are lege credit, advanced placement, or both for exams, and then the highest average grade
Lerner says she would like to have unwilling to foster or adopt a cat, sponsor- successful performance on the AP exams. on all AP exams taken.
another adoption day for adult cats. ing is also an option. About 18 percent of the 1.7 million students John Claypool, Michael Schilling and
“We have some incredibly sweet adult It costs $30-$60 to fix, vaccinate, and worldwide who took AP exams performed Andrew Yuskaitis qualified for the AP
cats that we’d love to adopt out,” says microchip a feral cat, plus costs for food at a sufficiently high level to also earn an Scholar with Distinction Award by earning
Lerner. and shelter, says Lerner. Sponsor a cat by AP Scholar Award. an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP
Since mid-August, the Mount Olive donating $30 to the Mt. Olive TNR Project, Sarah Connelly, Katharina Fischbach, exams taken, and grades of 3 or higher on
TNR Project has handled more than 60 cats and receive a picture of the cat you are Addison Rice, Merrill Simpson and five or more of these exams.
and kittens, says Lerner. Of those strays, 18 sponsoring. For $45, donators will receive a Danielle Walker qualified for the National
W
ith the onset of October many staged reading format with a full cast of
thoughts turn to the frightening; community artists.
witches, ghouls and scary stories Individual tickets for the show are on
become common and fun. The Growing sale now and can be bought online at
Stage (TGS) offers its own scary story with www.growingstage.com or by calling the
the special two day performance of “Night Box Office at 973-347-4946. Individual
of the Living Dead.” tickets are $16 for adults and $12 for seniors
The play, based on George Romero and and children. The Box Office is open
John Russo’s original film, follows seven Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10
people trapped in an isolated farmhouse try- a.m. to 2 p.m. Reservations for groups of 10
ing to hold onto their sanity and survive. or more are also being accepted.
After a satellite probe shot to Venus returns The Growing Stage was founded in
to Earth it is discovered that the probe car- 1982, with a Mission to nurture the develop-
ries a strange radiation that turns the ment of the performing arts through educa-
unburied dead into flesh-eating zombies. tion, and to create, produce, and perform
The play blends the terror and dark humor works that engage the entire family. The
from the cult classic movie, making it the Growing Stage’s home, the Historic Palace
perfect terrifying Halloween experience. Theater, is the only theater solely dedicated
“Night of the Living Dead” has show- to professional theater for young audiences
ings Friday, October 30 and Saturday, in New Jersey. More information on The
October 31 both at 7:30 p.m. The show runs Growing Stage is available on its website:
approximately 80 minutes with no intermis- www.growingstage.com.
sion and will be performed in a radio play/
Receive 2 Receive 2
Starburst Jackpot Starburst Jackpot
Sheets Sheets
With this coupon With this coupon
October 2, 9, 16, 23, 2009 October 2, 9, 16, 23, 2009
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Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009 • Page 17
Page 18 • Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009
Chester Cats Are Looking for a
“Think Pink”
J. Thomas Jewelers Partners Few Good Homes
C
hester Cats, a non-profit, pet friend- this time of year. All cats are spayed or
with The Susan G. Komen Foundation ly organization, is looking for a few neutered. If anyone is interested in adopting
J. Thomas Jewelers Partners with The about her own situation. That concern for good households. Cats can be a cats, please contact Barbara at 973-255-
Susan G. Komen Foundation presents the others continued even as Susan neared the great addition to any home, especially at 0351 or [email protected].
“Think Pink Event on October 22, 2009 ned of her fight. Moved by Susan’s com-
from 6:00pm to 10:00pm at J. Thomas passion for others and committed to making
Jewelers located at 244 Route 206 in
Flanders. For tickets please R.S.V.P. by
a difference, Nancy G. Brinker promised
her sister that she would do everything in Wanted - Used Ink Cartridges
calling (973) 927-4040 or email us at her power to end breast cancer forever.
Hopatcong High School Class of 2011 is collecting used ink cartridges.
[email protected]. Suggested That promise is now Susan G. Komen
Anyone interested in donating should contact Shirley at 973-945-1349.
donation of $20.00 per ticket. for the Cure®, the global leader of the
This event will include wine and cheese, breast cancer movement,having invested
guest speakers and designer jewelry give-a- more than $1 billion since inception in
ways! A portion of all sales at J. Thomas 1982. As the world’s largest graasroots net-
Jewelers, during the week of October 20th work of breast cancer survivors and
will be donated to Susan G. Komen founda- activists, we’re working together to save
tion. lives, empower people, ensure quality care
About Susan G. Komen: for all and energize science to find cures.
Susan G. Komen fought breast cancer Thanks to events like Susan G. Komen race
with her heart, body and soul. Throughout for the Cure®, and generous contributions
her diagnosis, treatments, and endless days from our partners, sponsors and fellow sup-
in the hospital, she spent her time thinking porters, we have become the largest source
of ways to make life better for other woman of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight
battling breast cancer instead of worrying against breast cancer in the world.
T
he Growing Stage (TGS), The Dowager Mouse Queen and her son. The
Children’s Theater of New Jersey, show runs through December 20, 2009 and
located in the Historic Palace is a classic story to be enjoyed by the entire
Theater on Route 183 in Netcong, will be family.
holding auditions on Tuesday, October 13, The Growing Stage- The Children’s
2009 for its holiday production The Story Theater of New Jersey’s production of The
of the Nutcracker. Auditions for young peo- Story of the Nutcracker runs from
ple age 10 to 13 will begin at 7 p.m., while November 27 through December 20, 2009
young adults and adults will follow at 8 with performances on Fridays at 7:30 p.m.
p.m. All auditions will include a dance and Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. The
piece led by the choreographer and a read- Growing Stage is a professional member of
ing from the script. the Association of Actor’s Equity. There
This winter, audiences young and old will be six roles available for AEA artists,
will be enchanted by the original TGS while other roles will be filled by commu-
adaptation of the Tchaikovsky ballet into a nity artists, making a cast of approximately
fully formed theatrical production. The twenty. Performers of color, seniors,
TWIN FIRM ea. pc. $
5900
play follows Clara and a Prince, trans- women and performers with disabilities are
formed into a Nutcracker, on a journey to encouraged to attend. For additional infor- FULL ea. pc. $
7900
rescue the Sugar Plum Fairie and to help mation, please call (973) 347- 4946 or e- QUEEN ea. pc. $
9900
the Prince reclaim his crown from the mail [email protected] . (Sold As Sets Only)
12900
$
O
n an evening in August 1944, a train from three years earlier. House” in Warm Springs, Georgia—ironically, with Lucy
Washington, D.C. bound for Hyde Park, New York We now know that the love affair between Lucy and Mercer at his side. At age 57, Lucy later passed away in
pulled into a little train depot at Allamuchy, New Franklin did not end. They continued to write to each other, 1948 of leukemia.
Jersey. This was no ordinary train—the President of the and Franklin secretly visited her when he could. After In 1950, The Brick House was sold to the Catholic
United States, Franklin Delano Roosevelt—was on board. Lucy’s husband died, Franklin was even more determined Sisters of Divine Charity and renamed “Villa Madonna.” In
But why did the train stop here during some of the darkest to see her in New Jersey. 2007, the Allamuchy Board of Education purchased the
days of World War II? In the middle of the night, the train pulled into the sta- building, which stands at the intersection of County Route
During World War I, Franklin Roosevelt was Assistant tion (which still stands) blocking Johnsonburg Road to keep 517 and Interstate Route 80. It was used to house pre-
Secretary of the Navy. In September 1918, Franklin and onlookers away. At midmorning, Franklin Roosevelt, in his kindergarten through second grade students. The building
wife, Eleanor, returned to the United States after visiting wheelchair, was lifted into a waiting car for the one-mile was renamed “Mountain Villa School” and the mansion
the European front. Unpacking her husband’s suitcase, she drive to the mansion, where Lucy was waiting. A group of named “Rutherfurd Hall.”
uncovered a packet of love letters. Unfortunately the love Washington reporters were on the train, passing the time A few miles down the road, just off Route 517, a simple
letters didn’t belong to her. They were from Lucy Mercer, playing poker. They asked a U.S. Secret Service agent, who gravestone in Tranquility Cemetery marks the final resting
Eleanor’s young social secretary. Described as “tall, beauti- was walking the president’s dog, Fala, why they were stop- place of Lucy and Winthrop Rutherfurd.
ful, well-bred with a low throaty voice and an incompara- ping. He told them the president was “visiting a friend.” A fascinating story and a great piece of history—right
bly winning smile,” Lucy had attracted Franklin’s attention Asking no questions, they re-boarded the train and resumed here in our own backyard.
four years before. Mrs. Roosevelt was devastated, and the poker game. Dr. Raymond Frey is a professor of history at Centenary
offered Franklin a divorce. He asked for forgiveness and FDR stayed with Lucy at the mansion until 5:30 in the College in Hackettstown, NJ.
promised never to see Lucy again. News of an affair and afternoon. While there, he even made a personal overseas
divorce would have most certainly ruined Franklin telephone call to Winston Churchill, who was recovering
Roosevelt’s promising future political career. from a bout with pneumonia. Attention Schools,
In 1920, Lucy married Winthrop Rutherfurd, a wealthy Late that afternoon, the train departed New Jersey and
New York City socialite almost thirty years her senior. He arrived in Hyde Park, New York early in the evening. Organizations, Churches, etc.
owned vast estates in Aiken, South Carolina, and Meanwhile back home, Eleanor Roosevelt was waiting for Send us your photos, press releases
Tranquility, New Jersey. He built an 18,000-square-foot her husband. She had prepared him a special dinner, know- and upcoming events and we’ll publish
estate in Allamuchy with 33 rooms and 17 bathrooms, ing nothing of his romantic liaison at Allamuchy.
known as “The Brick House.” The Rutherfurds spent their FDR planned several more visits to Allamuchy in the them in our next issue.
summers there, wintering in South Carolina. In March of coming months. But his health was quickly failing, and six Email us at [email protected]
Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009 • Page 23
HalloweenSafety AtoZ
Everything you need to know for a supremely fun and safe Halloween.
Always carry a Quarters are a good thing to
If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left
flashlight. carry in case you need
side of the road, facing traffic.
to call home.
Hello Gorgeous Hair Salon Medicine Shoppe Polite Plumber
36 Main Street, Netcong 50 Hopatchung Rd, Hopatcong 33 Lakeside Blvd., Hopatcong
973-448-8832 973-398-6066 973-398-0875
Costumes should not drag on the Know how and where to Stay on sidewalks as much
ground or be too dark to see. contact your parents. as possible.
Follow all traffic laws Never enter a Visit only houses that are lit.
and signals. stranger’s home.
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Page 24 • Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009
Change
By Harlin Parker
I
t’s true. Change is not easy. We humans are somehow
hardwired to be cautious of change. After all, even with
the most meticulous plan, we may think we know what
will happen but deep down inside we know that something
could go awry and we’ll be worse off than we were. That’s
so even when we know we have to change. And if there is
one thing we’ve learned from this Great Recession, we
know we can’t keep doing what we’ve been doing in the
same way. We know that here in New Jersey, with our mul-
titude of municipalities, school districts, commissions,
authorities, departments, and you-name-it, we are overbur-
dened with government. We literally cannot afford this
anymore. We know, at least most of us do, that how we cur-
rently structure and operate our government just isn’t work-
ing and we must, must make some long overdue adjust-
ments.
But still, change can be scary, and people of good will
have differing opinions as to what makes sense, and what
doesn’t. And, of course, the entrenched interests, including
those people who belong to the “we-have-always-done-it-
this-way” club, are part of the problem, not the solution. So
while this will not be easy or quick, I am sure it is possible
to bring about the changes we need and, well, we just don’t
have any choice. There is no storm that will blow over, and
the sun will come out again, and we can go back to the way
things were.
New Jersey’s municipalities, including my own home,
Washington Township, are caught in a structural problem
that, left unattended, continues to inevitably push up prop-
erty taxes, push down the amount and quality of local serv-
ices, and produces the kind of haphazard development we
see all around us. Things are so out of control that we are
currently witnessing tens of thousands of people leaving
New Jersey even though they’d prefer to stay. This is mad-
ness, is it not? Who’s next to leave? You? Clearly, we need
to fix things. And we need to go about it in as conscien-
tious, eyes wide open, mature and (dare I say?) intelligent a
manner as possible. A good bit of courage will help too.
Just last month, Committeeman Tracy Tobin retired from
his seat on the Washington Township Committee after 27
years of service. 27 years. Think about that. How did you
go about your own business 27 years ago? In my office, we
all used IBM selectric typewriters. And “cc” actually meant
“carbon copy.” Much has changed over the past 27 years in
how we all go about business. But in New Jersey, not all
that much has changed as to how municipalities go about
their business.
The recent series of articles in the Daily Record high-
lighted the challenges that confront us as we look to tackle
New Jersey’s crushing tax burden. Solutions were offered
that include tax base sharing, regionalization and consolida-
tion. All excellent ideas (and yes, ones that I’ve been push-
ing for a long time). But what have we gotten over the
years? The great ballyhooed “inter-local service agree-
ments,” often referred to as “shared service agreements” are
timid, small steps that fall far short of the kind of compre-
hensive, long term solutions we need. Shared service
agreements are short term, usually only a year or so, and are
subject to the whims of new mayors or council or commit-
tee members. They’re ad hoc and scattered. Washington
Township has such agreements with Califon for police serv-
ice and municipal court services. We had such agreements
with The Chesters for emergency dispatch service until that
was recently ruined. We have one with Chester Township
for financial officer services and we’re contemplating one
for health department services. Oh, and we’re apparently
talking with Tewksbury about something as well.
Unfortunately, this is the kind of scattershot, ad hoc, short
term way of doing business that, while possibly better than
the days when each municipality had to have its own of
Continued on page 27
Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009 • Page 25
Listen To Luigi The views and opinions of this syndicated column does not
reflect the view and opinions of MJ Media LLC
I
recalled in January 2009 when President-elect Barack ment – representing workers whose hours were cut back – plummeted faster than the Titanic. The only problem is that
Obama was talking about how we needed a stimulus is 17 percent. people look at their own finances and know what is really
package to help create 4.1 million jobs. Reporting from Los Angeles and Washington, the happening. In most cases, it is not good. People are worse
The following was an excerpt from a news article on the nation's unemployment rate edged closer to double digits in off now than they were before. You can blame Bush all you
MSNBC Web site last January: September but only began to reflect the miserable reality want to, but the truth is that nothing has been done yet
In his weekly radio and YouTube broadcast address on confronting America's workforce. under Obama to help the situation short-term. In the long
Saturday, President-elect Obama pointed out that he has The government reported Friday that the jobless rate run, things will be worse because of the mounting debt that
taken the unusual step of working ahead of his January 20 rose to a 26-year high of 9.8 percent, up from 9.7 percent in is accumulating. From January to October, Obama’s
inauguration with members of his own Democratic Party as August. The gauge's latest move up came as employers cut approval rating dropped to under 49 percent, a more than 20
well as the rival Republicans to seek consensus on a plan to their payrolls by 263,000 jobs, far more than analysts had percent decrease.
stimulate a recovery from the recession. expected, raising fresh concerns about the economy's abili- People or at least the people who like to read facts and
"If nothing is done, economists from across the spectrum ty to sustain its budding recovery. not listen to the Obama machine are realizing that he is a
tell us that this recession could linger for years and the Okay, so the quick rush to spend our money has resulted hard-core extremist who has no right to be running this
unemployment rate could reach double digits — and they in what? The highest unemployment rate in 26 years? Now, country. In fact, he really does not run it. He leaves that task
warn that our nation could lose the competitive edge that before all the liberals say it, I will. It was Bush’s fault! But to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader
has served as a foundation for our strength and standing in the reality is that it is not. President Obama has done little Harry Reid and his 20 or so czars for whom we are
the world," he said. during his first nine months but cause the national debt to bankrolling.
The President-elect said that a new analysis by his eco- grow to the highest levels in the country’s history. His The Obama administration tries to push through legisla-
nomic advisers indicated that his economic recovery plan administration plans on spending more money on health tion quickly. Why is that? They want to get their agenda
"will likely save or create three to four million jobs." care that will increase the debt even further. And confidence through before the November 2010 elections. People is
Fast forward to last week from the Los Angeles Times: in our economy keeps dropping. starting to see what Obama stands for, and many now do not
The unemployment rate rises to 9.8 percent as employ- People claim that the media is saying the economy is like it. When I speak with people who voted for him (not
ers cut more jobs than expected. A net 263,000 jobs were getting better. Of course, the media is saying that and has to. including the hard-core liberals), most say that they regret
eliminated in September, pushing the jobless rate to a 26- The state run media machine has to get the PR out to give having voted for this guy.
year high. The rate of unemployment plus underemploy- people confidence, because Obama’s poll numbers have How can this be? Wasn’t he supposed to be the Messiah?
Continued on page 27
Page 26 • Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009
U
nder a beautiful, cloudless September sky, over fif-
teen hundred people walked the perimeter of the
Rockaway Mall recently in support of the eighth
annual Saint Clare’s Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness.
Hosted by the Hilton Garden Inn, the Township of
Rockaway, and the Rockaway Townsquare Mall, the event
was held to raise awareness of breast cancer. The walk pro-
moted early diagnosis as well as St. Clare’s newest cancer
treatment, TomoTherapy, a revolutionary therapy integrat-
ing CT imaging and the latest in radiation technology.
When Ben Martin, Marketing Manager for St. Clare’s
Health System, stood at the podium before the walk, he told
the story of the “traveling shirt.”
“The first year it was done behind the scenes,” he said,
describing an incident that occurred at the 2007 walk.
Donita Judge, a Denville resident, had come to the walk in
the midst of her battle with breast cancer. With no shirts
left, the chair of the walk committee, Sandy Warner, gave
Judge her own shirt.
“The next year,” Martin continued, “…Donita got
onstage and explained what happened to her. She asked if
there was anyone she could give the shirt to. She gave it to
Linda Hartman.”
When Linda Hartman spoke into the microphone at this
year’s walk, she held up the wig she had worn last year
when she received the shirt.
“Last year, I had no hair. I wanted so desperately to feel
better again,” Hartman told the crowd. “I want all of you to
know what a difference a year makes.”
While Judge was unable to attend this year’s event (She TD Bank.” Wilson is this year’s recipient of the Mary walked, we gained inner strength and a sense of accom-
was attending her sister’s wedding.), St. Clare’s Foundation Mulholland Spirit Award, which recognizes outstanding plishment. We just had to walk.”
Executive Director Steve Nicholl read a statement from her. volunteer leadership. October is breast cancer awareness month. With that in
“Stay encouraged, because you will never walk alone.” The event brought together those who walked in some- mind, Mt. Olive Curves is waiving the service fee during
When participants began arriving at seven that morning, one’s memory, and those who just wanted to show support the last week of October for those who show proof of a
they found breakfast donated by the Hilton Garden Inn and for a good cause. “I thought it was great. I love Curves and recent mammogram. “Another option,” Johnson said, “is to
Villa Italian Kitchen in the mall. Many of the teams set up I thought it was a great way to support breast cancer aware- make a minimum twenty-five dollar donation for breast
booths, tables, and canopies with their own assortment of ness and St. Clare’s,” said Laura Kay of Mt. Olive. “I’m cancer research. That’s a savings of $149.”
breakfast items. Tables were also set up to offer various glad I got to be a part of it.” In addition, Johnson is hosting a “Girls’ Get-together” on
products such as pink bracelets to support awareness, and Some participants discovered energy they didn’t know Friday, October 30, from 6-7:30 p.m. “It’s an open house
50/50 tickets. they had. “I didn’t think I’d make it and I did it,” said Team for anyone in the community,” she explained. “We’re going
Massage therapists from the Center for Complementary Curves member Audrey Montroni of Oak Ridge. “I’m 73 to have a guest speaker from the American Cancer Society.
Medicine at St. Clare’s, were busy giving free massages to years old and I made it!” We’ll have vendors. There will be someone from Pampered
survivors participating in the walk. “I feel like I’m in heav- Some people had energy to spare. Donna Kope of Mt. Chef, Longaberger, Family Florist, Tupperware, Avon, a
en,” said participant Pat McNamara. Olive and her two young daughters also participated as soy candle representative. There will be light refreshments,
Girl Scouts from Troop 423 of Roxbury presented sash- members of Team Curves. When the walk was over, she raffles, tricky trays. All the money we raise that night goes
es to survivors and caregivers. Along the sidelines, cheer- gathered up her girls. “Mass is at 10:30. I’ve got to get them to breast cancer research. Anyone can come, members and
leaders from both Morris Knolls and Morris Hills High to church.” nonmembers. Everyone is invited to come and have a love-
Schools provided encouragement for the walkers. Teams “The feeling was overwhelming that day for me,” said ly evening. This night is free to everyone.”
were formed for the event from all over the area, including Lori Johnson, owner of Mt. Olive Curves and organizer of According to St. Clare’s Foundation Chair Kimberly
the staff and residents of Franciscan Oaks of Denville, the team. “When we looked back, there were just so many Armenti, this year’s event was a huge success. They sur-
Team Carole from TD Bank, Team Dreyfuss from people. I wasn’t the only one who got a lump in my throat.” passed their goal of $150,000 “because of the support of the
Mountain Lakes, and Team Curves of Mt. Olive. Women who live in the United States have a 1 in 7 community and sponsors like ADD Systems, TD Bank, and
Donna Richardson of Stanhope has been a member of chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime. Next to WDHA/WMTR.”
Mt. Olive Curves for over five years. She joined Team skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common type of can- “I was surprised to see so many people,” Team Curves
Curves, walking for the first time this year. cer in women. member Donna Richardson said of the walk. “I didn’t think
“My mother is a breast cancer survivor,” Richardson “People with breast cancer have to go through so much,” it was that many. I was impressed. I’ll do it again. It was for
explained. “She was diagnosed with a rare form of breast Johnson noted. “It doesn’t effect just women. It can effect a good cause.”
cancer called mammary paget’s disease. It’s a rash that men, anyone, no matter where they live, what race they are. The event is the culmination of work that takes place all
some doctors are not familiar with. That was about four In church they talk about the three T’s, time, talent, and year. To learn more about the walk, or how to get involved,
years ago. She’s doing well today.” treasure. In that walk, that’s what everyone did.” contact the St. Clare’s Foundation at 973-983-5300 or go to
“Two girls I work with had breast cancer in their fami- The commitment Johnson talked about goes beyond the www.saintclaresfoundation.org. To find out more about
lies,” said Team Dreyfuss member Maureen Vander Velde September walk. Johnson explained that the Curves mission Curves or to take advantage of their October special pro-
of Byram. statement is strengthening women. “It’s not just something grams, go to www.curveslocal.com/2725/ or call them at
Ruth Wilson of Team Carole said, “We walked in mem- we say. It’s our responsibility. That’s why we are involved (973) 426-0249.
ory of the sister-in-law of our human resources officer at in this cause. It’s why we did the walk. For all of us who
Luigi... Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009 • Page 27
Continued from page 25 country. There are those who want to make such as the Iranian nuclear crisis and the Comments? Email listentoluigi@
The reality is that the country was in a per- a life for themselves by working hard and Afghanistan war. And P.S., we didn’t get gmail.com or visit
fect storm to help him get elected into feeling good about their accomplishments. the Olympics. www.listentoluigi.com
office. The country was angry about going Then there are those who need the govern-
to war in Iraq. The economy was in sham- ment to provide for them by taking money
bles, thanks largely to failed policies that
started from presidents Jimmy Carter
from people who work hard. With that type
of mentality, the country is doomed.
Change...
through Bill Clinton. So this young guy We are just fortunate to have elections. Continued from page 24 over $5,000,000.00 (Five million dollars)
with brilliant speaking abilities (later I Next year is a big election year for the U.S. everything, falls far, far short of the restruc- building those fields. Mayor Ken Short dis-
learned it is the teleprompter) comes along Congress and Senate. If things keep going turing every independent expert agrees we cussed how, years earlier, Committeeman
and gets elected. We were jubilated to have the way they are, most incumbents will be must have if we’re ever going to get a grip Tobin spoke up and cautioned his col-
our first African-American president in out of office. People can blame Bush all on how we do government in New Jersey. leagues to take into account and plan for the
office. He was untouchable during the hon- they want to. But the reality is that the peo- On a personal note, I’m sorry to see substantial annual costs of maintaining
eymoon period. Now people have become ple who are running the asylum today are Committeeman Tobin go. Even as this was those fields. Yet, in Mr. Short’s own words,
vocal and grass roots organizations are pop- the same people who ran it when Bush was to be his last year, he spoke about the tragic “We ignored you.” Yes, they did. And now
ping up. The disgruntled folks want to keep in office. These people have done nothing medical news that has befallen his son, we all pay the costs. Some more than oth-
America the way it is and not the way but drag this country down further than at prompting his immediate retirement. All of ers. Sadly, it isn’t just the sage advice of
Obama and his team want it to be. any other time in our history. us, I’m sure, extend our heartfelt prayers to Committeeman Tobin that’s been ignored
It was okay for the Democrats to bash There is nothing we can do with Obama him, his son and his entire family. I believe over the years. The Township Committee
Bush for years. They went so far as to have now but live with him and hope that he will his departure is a loss for the people of has a history of ignoring the voters, as it did
Hollywood produce movies based on his be a one-term president. We can only hope Washington Township. We have lost an when it built a new town hall and police
blunders and unpopular policies. But when that his policies will inflict limited damage independent voice; someone who looked headquarters, even though residents in town
you criticize the almighty Obama, they call and that they will not destroy our freedoms. beyond partisanship, beyond short term had voted against doing so.
you a racist. Even former President Jimmy We can only look forward to the day when gain. I know Committeeman Tobin shared In my own humble opinion, we need
Carter said he thought it was racist to be we can regain our strength as a superpower my concerns about the structural problems people who will listen to and represent the
criticizing the almighty. Carter might be before countries like Iran and North Korea affecting municipalities, including cares, concerns and will of the people who
losing his mind, so no one really cares what keep pushing us around because they know Washington Township. And I believe he live here. We need people who, like Tracy
he says anymore. Race has nothing to do that we have a lot of problems and weak shared my view that decisions made by the Tobin, lift their eyes to look beyond the
with the criticisms of Obama. It is his com- leadership. Township Committee should be based not trees so as to see the forest. People who
petence that is in question. These days President Obama appears on short term expedience but on what is in work for what is in the best long term inter-
Americans who understand what this more of a celebrity than a president. He is our best long term interest. Example? ests of the people they represent. After all,
country is all about and the principles upon on late night shows, ranging from Leno to Recently, as the Township Committee 27 years goes by awfully quick, doesn’t it,
which it was founded see what he is doing Letterman and every other show in contemplated a “fee” on local children who Tracy?
to destroy those ideals. But the blind who between. His trip to Copenhagen to win the participate in youth sports, the Send comments to
are just in it for freebies cannot see it. As I Olympics for Chicago only took money and Committeemen discussed the 29 sports [email protected]
see it, there are two types of people in this time away from more important issues, fields in town. Washington Township spent
Page 28 • Tell Them You Saw It In The Musconetcong News • October 2009
Fall Recipes
T
hese days, people are making and Barley Soup. Visit www.swanson-
fewer visits to their favorite broth.com and www.bravotv.com for more
restaurants opting, instead, chef-inspired recipes and tips.
to dine at home. Inspired by cookbooks Roasted Tomato and Barley Soup
and television programs, such as Bravo’s Prep: 10 minutes
“Top Chef,” home cooks Cook: 40 minutes
are getting increasingly more creative in Bake: 25 minutes
the kitchen. And with a greater array of Serves: 8
kitchen helpers and chefs’ own trusted 1 can (about 28 ounces) diced
shortcuts available in grocery stores, it’s tomatoes, undrained
never been easier to cook like a top chef at 2 large onions, diced (about 2 cups)
home. For example, Swanson chicken broth 2 cloves garlic, minced
is a pantry essential that adds rich, delicious 2 tablespoons olive oil
flavor to everyday culinary creations. 4 cups Swanson Chicken Broth
Here are some great recipes to try, (Regular, Natural Goodness or
inspired by a recent Quickfire Challenge on Certified Organic)
“Top Chef.” Thai Roasted Squash Soup is a 2 stalks celery, diced (about 1 cup)
sweet and spicy dish, infused with flavors 1/2 cup uncooked pearl barley ing pan. Pour the oil over the vegetables and boil. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and
of coconut, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley toss to coat. Roast for 25 minutes. cook for
curry, fresh ginger and cilantro. For a 1. Heat oven to 425°F. Drain tomatoes, 2. Place the roasted vegetables into a 3- 35 minutes or until the barley is tender.
rustic dish that pairs beautifully with a vari- reserving the juice. Place the tomatoes, quart saucepan. Stir in the reserved tomato Stir in the parsley.
ety of main courses, try Roasted Tomato onions and garlic into a 17 x 11-inch roast- juice, broth, celery and barley and heat to a
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