Podcasts about Middlesex County

Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast featuring Adam Glinn, CEO, JCC of Middlesex County.In this powerful episode, Adam Glinn shares his unique journey from practicing law to discovering his true calling—nonprofit leadership. Although the legal profession shaped part of his path, it was never where his heart truly lived. Raised by parents who modeled service and community commitment—serving on boards and giving back in meaningful ways—Adam developed an early understanding of what it meant to be of service to others.Now, as the CEO of the JCC of Middlesex County, Adam leads with purpose, compassion, and a clear focus on meeting the ever-evolving needs of the community. Under his leadership, the JCC has launched a transformative capital campaign and pivoted from simply referring mental health needs to becoming a first-line provider of mental health services. They've also expanded their programming to include occupational and physical therapy, a move many would not have expected from a traditional JCC—but one that speaks to their commitment to supporting the whole person and entire family.Adam also reveals a surprising reality: Of the approximately 170 Jewish Community Centers across North America, more than 70% have memberships where over half the members are not Jewish. At the JCC in Edison, NJ, the reach is just as broad. Members speak 37 different languages, and of the 150 preschoolers they serve, 90% are not Jewish. The center has become a place for all people—welcoming, supportive, and mission-driven.With a heart for his team, a vision for the future, and a deep desire to serve, Adam Glinn is redefining what it means to lead a community organization in today's world.Subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube channel or stream all episodes on all major platforms Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TodayistheDayLiveIt.To learn more about upcoming Changemakers Connective events, workshops, keynote speaking, 1:1 coaching, team leadership development, and transformational consulting, visit TodayistheDayLiveIt.com.Jodi Grinwald is a sought-after speaker, award-winning transformational architect, and certified professional coach who works with nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and leaders seeking to connect to their “why” and create greater impact.#changemakers #podast #community #buildingabrand #brandbuilding #changetheway #todayistheday

In this episode of Build Momentum, we are joined by Dr. James Lane, Chief Executive Officer of PDK International, a nonprofit that supports those who work in public education, and its community-based movement Educators Rising. He has served at the federal, state, and local levels: in the U.S. Department of Education as Acting Assistant Secretary and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education; as Superintendent of Public Instruction in Virginia; and as Superintendent of three Virginia school divisions in Chesterfield County, Goochland County, and Middlesex County. Dr. Lane is also a former school principal and band director.Some Questions We Ask:Tell us more about your career at all levels of K-12 education and now as a leader at PDK? (01:22)What is the most rewarding aspect of your career? (05:01)What insights from your time in the Department of Education surprised you—and were there any misconceptions about the superintendency that you experienced while working as a policymaker? (08:02)What are your thoughts about the 2023 RAND study, and do you have similar perspectives as other superintendents? (12:36)What are your strategies for bringing the community together to see your vision? (17:09)How have you been able to connect with the whole community to support you along the way in your career? (22:59)What is your opinion regarding humanizing the role of superintendents? (28:36)What advice would you give to supporters of K-12 education about advocating for district leaders? (33:13)In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Dr. James Lane (01:32)Rewarding aspect of his expansive career (05:20)Insights he gained and misconceptions he encountered (08:21)Thoughts about the 2023 RAND study (13:06)Strategies for bringing the community together (17:34)How he connected with the community (23:13)His thoughts on humanizing the role of superintendents (28:51)Advice on advocating for K-12 district leaders (33:47)Quotes:“For me, the rewarding part of education is working with kids and preparing them for an amazing life and career and job and everything else. And I tried to remember that in every role I've ever been in.”“The very best school districts I've seen have stability in the board and the superintendent, and then that leads to stability in the principalship, of the teachers, and of expectations around what we do in schools.”“What your families want for their kids is important. Be willing to change what you want to do in that community based on the feedback of families.”“The best thing that we can do to improve schools is make sure there's a great teacher in every classroom who's engaging parents and students.”Stay in touch with Dr. James Lane:PDK InternationalEducators RisingLinkedIn Stay in touch with Sarah Williamson:SWPR GROUP WebsiteLinkedInStay in touch with Chad Bolser:LinkedInAbout "The Secret to Transformational Leadership," which Sarah co-authored with Dr. Quintin Shepherd:Transformational Leadership Secret websitePurchase the print or ebook

Coming up on Paranomaly Beyond Disclosure we are talking about Drones with Anthony Esemplare. You won't want to miss this one folks. Monday December 23rd at 8pm Eastern Time. Anthony EsemplareEPIC TV NEW YORKas I began my professional journey as a corrections officer in Middlesex County, New Jersey. This initial role laid the groundwork for a dedicated career in public service, which soon transitioned to the New York Police Department. Over nearly 12 years as a street cop, I honed my skills in law enforcement, demonstrating unwavering commitment and resilience.In addition to my police work, I took on a challenging side job in construction, moonlighting as a worker on the union building skyscrapers in Manhattan. However, my career took a dramatic turn in 2017 when he suffered a severe injury due to a floor collapse at a construction site, resulting in total disability.During his time as a police officer, I played a crucial role in the rescue efforts during the September 11 attacks. They Say my bravery and dedication did not go unnoticed; I have received multiple awards, commendations, and citations from city, state, and federal sources, including four Medals of Distinguished Merit from the New York State Senate.my expertise extends beyond law enforcement. I holds 24 licenses and certifications from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), covering a wide range of areas including disaster recovery, incident management, and emergency preparedness. my extensive training has equipped me to handle various emergency situations effectively.In 1993, I experienced a life-altering event when I encountered a UFO on Staten Island. Witnessing a triangular craft hovering above the woods led to nearly five hours of missing time, during which my family and neighbors searched for me. To this day, the details of that missing time remain a mystery.In 1999, I faced another life-changing experience when a motorcycle accident resulted in a near-death experience. This incident deepened my interest in ufology and the paranormal, leading me to immerse myself in these fields for the past 25 years.Throughout my career, I have contributed to multiple television documentaries, with my most recent project being "Trans Medium: USOs and Fast Movers," directed by Darcy Weir, available on Amazon. Currently, I am collaborating with Robert Earl White from the YouTube channel "The Order of Light”on a new documentary titled "Beyond the Horizon: Triangulating UFOs from New York to New Jersey." I am also a published Magazine writer, 3 of my stories can be found in Paranormality Magazine & I have been featured in the news multiple times for my research in the unknown & unidentified subject.My journey is marked by resilience, dedication, and a profound curiosity about the unknown, making me a unique figure in both law enforcement and the exploration of the paranormal.

Coming up on Paranomaly Beyond Disclosure we are talking about Drones with Anthony Esemplare. You won't want to miss this one folks. Monday December 23rd at 8pm Eastern Time. Anthony EsemplareEPIC TV NEW YORKas I began my professional journey as a corrections officer in Middlesex County, New Jersey. This initial role laid the groundwork for a dedicated career in public service, which soon transitioned to the New York Police Department. Over nearly 12 years as a street cop, I honed my skills in law enforcement, demonstrating unwavering commitment and resilience.In addition to my police work, I took on a challenging side job in construction, moonlighting as a worker on the union building skyscrapers in Manhattan. However, my career took a dramatic turn in 2017 when he suffered a severe injury due to a floor collapse at a construction site, resulting in total disability.During his time as a police officer, I played a crucial role in the rescue efforts during the September 11 attacks. They Say my bravery and dedication did not go unnoticed; I have received multiple awards, commendations, and citations from city, state, and federal sources, including four Medals of Distinguished Merit from the New York State Senate.my expertise extends beyond law enforcement. I holds 24 licenses and certifications from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), covering a wide range of areas including disaster recovery, incident management, and emergency preparedness. my extensive training has equipped me to handle various emergency situations effectively.In 1993, I experienced a life-altering event when I encountered a UFO on Staten Island. Witnessing a triangular craft hovering above the woods led to nearly five hours of missing time, during which my family and neighbors searched for me. To this day, the details of that missing time remain a mystery.In 1999, I faced another life-changing experience when a motorcycle accident resulted in a near-death experience. This incident deepened my interest in ufology and the paranormal, leading me to immerse myself in these fields for the past 25 years.Throughout my career, I have contributed to multiple television documentaries, with my most recent project being "Trans Medium: USOs and Fast Movers," directed by Darcy Weir, available on Amazon. Currently, I am collaborating with Robert Earl White from the YouTube channel "The Order of Light”on a new documentary titled "Beyond the Horizon: Triangulating UFOs from New York to New Jersey." I am also a published Magazine writer, 3 of my stories can be found in Paranormality Magazine & I have been featured in the news multiple times for my research in the unknown & unidentified subject.My journey is marked by resilience, dedication, and a profound curiosity about the unknown, making me a unique figure in both law enforcement and the exploration of the paranormal.

Justice is coming for Charline at last! News broke this week in her 16-year-old murder case. The first real hope for justice for Charline and her family. On Thursday, April 10, Middlesex County District Attorney Marion Ryan announced the arrest of Heinsky Anacreon, age 38, of Malden, Mass, who was indicted by a Middlesex County grand jury on charges of murder, willfully misleading a police officer and willfully misleading an attorney, charging him with first-degree murder in this cold case that has haunted Charline's family since the day she disappeared on April 7, 2009. The investigation revealed a heartbreaking betrayal - Charline was lured by so-called friends with the promise of a sweet deal on a car, only to be robbed and killed. Most disturbing perhaps is the evidence that after the murder, her killers celebrated with a bottle of Moet champagne and toasted their windfall. For those who've followed Crime of the Truest Kind, this case has been near to my heart. After sharing her case in a live show in 2024, and interviewing Charline's sister Rose (listen to episodes 71 and 72) last fall and advocating for this case at every opportunity, seeing this development brings joy. Nothing can bring Charline back or erase her family's 16 years of hoping and waiting for her killers to be caught. As we look toward a trial, I will continue following every development. Advocacy is key. After 16 years, there's finally been an arrest in the murder case of Charline Rosemond, a 23-year-old woman from Everett who was shot to death for $4,000 cash in 2009. Middlesex County District Attorney Marion Ryan has announced charges against Heinsky Anacreon, revealing that Charline was set up by someone she considered a close friend, Roberto Jude, who died before facing justice.• Charline disappeared April 7, 2009, she was found on April 13. • DNA evidence on the car's door handle linked Roberto Jude to the scene• Anacreon allegedly admitted to disposing of the murder weapon in a river• Charline's family will be meeting on April 13th at 3pm in Union Square, Somerville – the 16th anniversary of when she was foundMore at CrimeoftheTruestKind.comFacebook.com/justiceforcharlinerosemondSupport the showFollow Instagram | Facebook | BlueSky | TikTok | Threads | YouTube For show notes & source information at CrimeoftheTruestKind.comGive the dogs a bone tip jar: buymeacoffee.com/truestkindBecome a patron: Patreon.com/crimeofthetruestkindThis podcast has minimal profanity but from time to time you get one or some curse words. This isn't for kids.Music included in episodes from Joe "onlyone" Kowalski, Dug McCormack's Math Ghosts and Shredding by Andrew King

Water levels along the Thames River are beginning to drop. CK Public Health is reporting another measles exposure site in Tilbury. Frontline Chatham-Kent police officers are going to start wearing cameras. A Wallaceburg woman is facing charges after she allegedly hit a child she didn't know with a stick. A single-vehicle crash in Middlesex County has led to impaired driving charges for a Wallaceburg woman. A popular and colourful fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Chatham Sunrise is back.

Tonight, on NJ Spotlight News…STRIKE AVERTED…NJ Transit makes a deal with its engineers to keep the trains rolling; Plus, the Camden Catholic Diocese's fight to keep clergy abuse under wraps has now been exposed…and victims may finally get their day in court; Also, federal cuts to teacher training programs here in the state will NOT help a statewide teacher shortage; And, after a series of fatal crashes, Middlesex County tries to curb DANGEROUS DRIVING along a stretch of Route One…

Courtney Kimble used to work with Paul and they reconnected after Paul met Courtney's dad Anthony last week. Courtney is from Middlesex County, Virginia and Paul and a couple of friends went to eat lunch at Something Different (https://somediff.com) in Urbanna which Anthony and his wife Sarah own. They talked about where Courtney grew up, what Urbanna and Middlesex County are known for and how her best friend is a cousin of another guest that has been on the podcast. Courtney has been laid off for about the last five months. They discussed some great advice she got from her Dad, the perspective she has gained over these five months and what she has learned from going through a lay off. Courtney told Paul what she has done during this time to increase her skills and what she has accomplished to make herself a better candidate for her next job. Courtney talked about growing up, what sports she played, the different schools she went to and being coached by her Dad for a lot of years. They spoke about her schooling after high school and they finished by talking about her love for true crime, the Philadelphia Eagles and how she is looking forward to March Madness after the Super Bowl.

If you've suffered a joint or muscle injury in Middlefield, Durham, Portland, Cromwell, or another part of Middlesex County, Lifetime Health Physiotherapy (860-969-1447) offers custom recovery programs to get you back to full fitness. Go to https://lifetimehealthpt.com/ for more information. Lifetime Health Physiotherapy City: Durham Address: Durham, CT Website: https://lifetimehealthpt.com/

Cynthia Clegg is the President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Middlesex County. She talks about the Buddy Benches initiative.

A Blenheim man was airlifted to hospital yesterday following a single-vehicle crash just south of Chatham. Charges have been laid following a significant drug bust at Walpole Island First Nation.  The report of a suspicious vehicle in Middlesex County has led to drug charges against a Chatham man. About 130 Clear Medical Imaging workers hit the picket line today.  The Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation's Taylor Swift concert ticket fundraiser was a huge success. E. coli infections tied to McDonald's burgers have risen to 75.

Send us a textFrom July 2014 through 2022, Keith covered Rutgers athletics for NJ Advance Media, the content company for NJ.com and The Star-Ledger. The dean of the Rutgers football beat, Keith covered thousands of games and big-picture topics surrounding the state university's athletics program since 2000.Keith recently garnered two national awards from the Associated Press Sports Editors for his investigative reporting. Two years ago, the National Sports Media Association named Keith New Jersey's best sportswriter. He was named NJ Advance Media Reporter of the Year in 2018.Keith transitioned in 2022 from sports to news, where as an investigative report he focuses on government, public accountability, education, environmental issues and other topics for NJ Advance Media while still keeping an eye on Rutgers athletics.Keith has family roots in several Middlesex County towns and graduated from Cedar Ridge High School in Old Bridge, making him and Jerry crosstown rivals.Keith is involved in several community service initiatives in his Monmouth County community, including events involving recreation, the environment, and school volunteer programs.Find Keith X@KSargeantNJFind The Suffering PodcastThe Suffering Podcast InstagramKevin Donaldson InstagramMike Failace InstagramApple PodcastSpotifyYouTubeThe Suffering Podcast FamilySherri AllsupToyota of HackensackPoPl Discount code TSP20Cubita CafeSupport the showThe Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube

Manny Fernandez grew up in Topping, Virginia in Middlesex County on a thirty acre farm with a nurturing mom and a Dad that he described as tough. He is very thankful for that combination which has helped him to be well mannered, respectful and have gratitude for what has happened in his life. What has happened is that Manny started fighting when he was 18 years old, has fought all over the world and has one world championship under his belt .., so far. Manny started in MMA, has done some Brazilian Jujitsu, but has been fighting Muay Thai since 2020 and that is his sole focus right now. Paul learned about his style, his regimen to get to fighting weight and who he looks up to in the professional ranks of all fighting. Paul also discovered one activity that Manny learned to help his brain adapt so that it would make him a better fighter. They finished by talking about Manny's future and about his girlfriend Jordan who has been a great source of support for Manny.

Morgan saw a ghost, wth, happy thursday!!!!!! Little quick catch up chat (only 9 mins, record timing) and then we'll get creepy with ya, besties!! Taylar does a take over to cover the Colonial Parkway Murders that terrorized this area of Virginia for the last half of the 80s and beyond. 9 confirmed victims: Cathy, Becky, David, Robin, Keith, Cassandra, Annamaria, Daniel, and Terri. Spanning from 1986-1989 and an additional 5+ potential attacks. In 2022 a break in the case would lead to major developments that were released in January of this year (2024). In which, Alan W. Wilmer Sr. was confirmed to be behind two of the incidents. The FBI is still looking for information regarding Wilmers whereabouts and other information that would help connect him to other crimes that do not have DNA. So they are asking for help from the public. Here is the statement they left in a January 10, 2024 CNN article written by Steve Almasy and Sara Smart: “In the 1980s, Wilmer was a fisherman who often docked his commercial fishing boat in Gloucester County and Middlesex County, state police said in a news release. He also ran a tree service and hunted frequently.He was 5 feet, 5 inches tall, muscular and weighed approximately 165 pounds, according to state police, who have asked anyone who may have had contact with Wilmer to come forward. Wilmer drove a distinctive, blue 1966 Dodge Fargo pickup with the Virginia license plate “EM-RAW” and writing on the truck's passenger door. “Anyone who may have worked with Alan W. Wilmer Sr. or hunted with him, farmed oysters and clams with him, docked next to him at marinas in the Northern Neck, Hampton Roads or Middle Peninsula areas, or hung out with him is encouraged to contact the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or submitting a tip online at www.tips.fbi.gov,” TTYL BESTIES!! ILY SO MUCH, SEE YA NEXT WEEK FOR THE BIG. 2. 0. 0. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Amanda Lucas, founder of Lucas Literacy Lab, a middle school microschool in Middlesex County, New Jersey opening this fall. She taught in charter and private schools across New York City for nearly a decade before becoming an education entrepreneur and joining the KaiPod Catalyst microschool startup accelerator program. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Every firefighter who rides an engine has a favorite tool: The Halligan Bar. As nearly all young firefighters learn, it was invented in 1948 by an FDNY Deputy Chief named Hugh Halligan.Not long after that, he created the Halligan Hook. Sometimes it's called a New York Roof Hook.This six-foot bar is a favorite of truckies who need to open up roofs.But there's another way to use the Halligan Hook: as a rescue tool. It takes a little creativity to see a bar meant for ripping open a roof as a way to save a firefighter's life. Today's guest is here to explain how to do it.AB Turenne is the captain of training and safety with a career department in Middlesex County, Connecticut. He's got 25 years on the job and is a certified Level III Fire Service Instructor.

We get a sneak peek into the new Middlesex County Ride On Demand system that is helping people get around New Brunswick! With all the new development happening in NB, including our partners at the Helix NJ, it's imperative to have reliable sources of transportation connecting the people who live and work in Middlesex County to the places and services they need! middlesexcountynj.gov/ride Support the Show.

Mary Wyatt Lloyd, 96, passed away on December 6, 2023. Daughter of the late Rosser Samuel Wyatt and Annie Laurie Kandle Wyatt, she was born “down the country” in Middlesex County, Virginia, in 1927, graduating from Saluda High School in 1946. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, John Carter Lloyd; her daughter, Rebecca Wyatt Lloyd; her beloved brothers and sisters, Clifton Wyatt, Gladys Wyatt LeCompte, Addie Wyatt Simmons, Theadis Wyatt Tinsley, Margarette Wyatt Howell, Robert Henry Wyatt, John Wyatt, Wilbur “Teenie” Wyatt and Walter Wyatt; as well as a number of her nieces...Article LinkSupport the show

— “Your truth always lies within. It's up to you to find it. Only you can do that.” Valeria interviews Susan Glenney — She is the author of  “Moments in Time with 16 Men: A Coming of Age Thriller Book for Women, Filled with Mystery, Romance and Suspense.” Susan Glenney is a graduate of George Washington University, with a B.A. in American Studies. She was a contributing feature writer for "Kennebec Journal", a Maine newspaper. "Moments in Time with 16 Men" is her first novel, which is a coming-of-age thriller for women, filled with mystery, romance, and suspense. Her newest publication is a novella called, "The Bow Tie," which is about an unknown man with whom Jennifer has multiple unwanted encounters, soon to be published on Amazon. Susan hopes these books will help others understand some of the effects that trauma has on people. With support, love, resilience, and the right tools, many can live a healthy, productive life. A percentage of the proceeds of all of Susan's books go to New Horizons Domestic Violence Services in Middlesex County, Connecticut. She currently lives in New England along the Connecticut River. She enjoys being outdoors year-round and observing the uniqueness of each season. Susan plans to do more traveling. One of the items that is top on her bucket list is to cycle in Holland during tulip season when the flowers are in full bloom. To learn more about Susan Glenney and her work, please visit: https://www.susanglenney.com/newsletter               — This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life through the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well. 

The Perfect Murders [True Crime Documentary] First Story: Murder of Julie Keown Julie Keown died in September 2004 from a deadly dose of an antifreeze substance. While the couple lived in Waltham, Massachusetts, authorities said James Keown laced his wife's Gatorade with antifreeze. Later, Keown returned to Missouri. Julie Keown could have committed suicide or inadvertently consumed the poison, according to Keown's counsel. A Massachusetts jury found a former Missouri radio reporter guilty of poisoning his wife with antifreeze and murdering her. James Keown was guilty of first-degree murder by a jury in Middlesex County. Keown is facing an automatic life sentence without the possibility of parole. Second Story: Murders of Rachel and Lillian Entwistle On January 22, 2006, the remains of Rachel Entwistle, 27, and her 9-month-old daughter Lillian were discovered in the master bedroom of their Hopkinton, Massachusetts home, where the Entwistles had just been living for ten days. Rachel died of a gunshot wound to the head, while infant Lillian died of a gunshot wound to the stomach, according to autopsy data. Neil Entwistle bought a one-way ticket to London and boarded a British Airways flight just hours after his wife and daughter died. Neil was found by Hopkinton Police on January 23rd at his parents' home in Nottinghamshire, England. He informed a detective that he had left his home for an errand about 9:00 a.m. three days prior, and that his wife and daughter were both alive and well in the couple's bed when he departed. When he returned at 11:00 a.m., he claimed to have discovered both of them dead. Neil Entwistle, an Englishman, was guilty of murdering his American wife, Rachel, and their infant daughter, Lillian, in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, on January 20, 2006. He was condemned to life in jail without the possibility of release and is currently housed at the Old Colony Correctional Center. The Perfect Murders True Crime Documentary

Tonight: NJ Spotlight News presents special programming from on our original series called "21." In this episode, we'll introduce you to several people making a difference in their New Jersey counties, including Laura Choi of Warren County, Anna Baldwin of Gloucester County and Celmira Cordero of Middlesex County.

Mike and Richie break down the announcement of Rutgers baseball's new stadium facility in a partnership with Middlesex County (0:30). They then pivot to basketball and discuss the transfer portal commitment of G Jeremiah Williams (8:30) and preview the upcoming international trip they're taking (13:45). They close with football and discuss the recruit BBQ from this past weekend (18:30), a review of B1G media day from last week (22:30) and preview training camp starting on Thursday (30:00)

In this touching episode, dive into the transformative world of nature therapy with Taylor Eagan and the Nature Connection team. Explore how they use nature to heal and boost mental health, igniting responsibility and trust with at-risk youth through therapeutic animal interactions. Discover moving tales of personal growth, like a young boy overcoming his fears with a bearded dragon. Uncover the value of small, everyday connections with nature- so important in our fast-paced world! Embrace the ripple effect of positivity the program instills in those battling disabilities and degenerative diseases. Navigate the hurdles in making such impactful programs accessible to all. Lastly, connect with Taylor and her colleagues as their own lives are profoundly changed by these life-affirming encounters. This episode beautifully encapsulates the transformative power of nature. Taylor Eagan is Program Director for The Nature Connection. She is a biologist, animal welfare advocate, educator, and gardener. Podcast Transcript Pat: Fill To Capacity, crazy good stories and timely topics. Podcasts for people too stubborn to quit and too creative not to make a difference. Inspiring, irreverent, and informative. Stay tuned. Hi, I'm Pat Benincasa, and welcome to Fill To Capacity! Pat: Today's episode: "Bringing the Outside, Inside: Nature's Path to Healing." My guest is Taylor Eagan. Taylor is a biologist, animal welfare advocate educator and gardener, and she is Program Director for the Nature Connection, where she designs and evaluates accessible and therapeutic programs utilizing plants and animals for people of all abilities and backgrounds. Well, welcome Taylor. I'm so happy to have you here. Taylor: I'm glad to be here. Pat: I'd like to start by giving our listeners a little bit of background. The Nature Connection was founded in 1983 and is located in Concord, Massachusetts. Now that's Middlesex County and the Greater Boston area? Okay. Their mission is to improve the wellbeing of individuals and communities through the therapeutic use of nature, by bringing the outside, inside through plants, animals, and natural materials to people with limited or no access to the outside world. Programs are delivered to at risk youth, people with disabilities, and older people with Alzheimer's and dementia. I love on your website the quote, "We bring, nature. Nature does the rest!" Pat: I'd like to start with the Nature Connection's mission of using nature therapeutically to improve the wellbeing of individuals and communities. Taylor, what does using nature therapeutically mean? How's it done and how's that different from other forms of therapy? Taylor: Yeah, it's a great place to start. It's very similar, I think, to maybe where art, music, dance therapies were about 20 years ago when they were kind of coming onto the scene and gaining popularity. And I think the pandemic has really helped shed light on how important nature is for our wellbeing. How important it is for us to be able to continue to get outside. And it's really come into the mainstream, the importance that it has in our mental health. And there's eco psychology and nature therapy and green therapy. It's got all these different names right now, but it's popping up in all of these different places and we know it's important. That's why there's therapy dog programs and forest bathing. And why, on a stressful, crazy, hectic day, you take a minute to go outside and breathe or take a walk, pet the dog. Taylor: So, it's something that we know is really important for us, for humans. And there's ... studies out there that are really starting to show it. Some, going all the way back again to 1983, actually with Ulrich's study of "View Through A Hospital Window," where patients who had had surgery, if they had a view outside of nature from their hospital bed, they recovered faster than patients who didn't. And we know it, historically, hospitals had garden centers and we knew it for a really long time, as humans, human society. And then we seem to have forgotten it with all of our technology, but it's coming back. That's the important part. It's coming back. Taylor: One of the things that I think nature is able to do is, it is so integral to our biology. We are a part of this planet, and we are a part of our ecosystems and where we are. So being able to have time with nature, feeling connected to nature. And Nature Connectedness is a real phrase, not just the name of our organization, but in being able to have that, it brings a sense of community and belonging along to those of us who are able to spend time in it. And that in itself, I think is healing. Pat: Yeah. I love how you bring in that macro eco connection, but yet you're a one-on-one organization. I love that duality. And so that segues into my next question. Can you highlight some specific examples of how your programs have positively impacted people with disabilities, Alzheimer's, or dementia? Taylor: It happens in a group setting, and we're very much talking on, we're designing our programs on an ecosystem level. So, bringing in the beach or the meadow or the forest. But then it does break down into these one-on-one interactions during the program hour. And that's when our, our staff and our volunteers are able to talk to participants. And we're talking about folks with disabilities. We're talking about folks with dementia and Alzheimer's, people with behavioral challenges and concerns. So, the person on your left is nowhere near the same as the person on your right. And you really need someone to be right there to talk with that participant about where they're at, what's connecting them to this experience. And we're able to really then, meet them where they're at. That very buzzword phrase these days, "meet them where they are" in terms of their interest and ability.  Taylor: And if it's an ocean program, it's summer right now we're doing a lot of ocean programs. We might have some hermit crabs with us. And for some participants, all that we're doing is really looking at how incredible that seashell is on the hermit crab's back and feeling the texture and just right there in the moment, exploring with our senses. And that's the moment. And it's amazing. Beautiful. Wonderful. But the next person might really wanna get into the science of this and like, well, how does the hermit crab fit in there? And we can talk about how the tail like curves in and holds onto that shell and how they need to change the shells as they grow. And that's within the same program. That's two different participants right next to each other. And so, we're able to really make meaningful connections with our program participants wherever it is that they're at, and whatever would be really meaningful and engaging for them at that time. Pat: So, your staff and volunteers really have to have a refined E.Q., Emotional Quotient in order to read what's going on with each individual and sense what will be helpful for that person. Taylor: Yeah. There's a reason why these programs are not everywhere. It is a huge resource and not just the time and the money, but for the people power to make it happen. To be able to sit there and converse, take the time, which sounds like should be a no brainer, but in today's fast-paced society, it so often gets missed to just sit and take the time and talk with someone and figure out where it is that they're at, and hear their stories and their experiences and hold that space for them, so that they can have that moment. Pat: Now ,I taught Art at an Arts high school and art programs in college. And so, I'm of course youth focused. I'm just gonna fess up right now. And I'd like to talk about your youth At Risk Youth Program. Now, during the pandemic, teen mental health issues, soared and, an American Psychological Association study found that during the pandemic depression and anxiety in youth doubled compared to pre pandemic levels. Now with that said, Taylor Youth at Risk are already in challenging situations. How has your program impacted these kids? So, two ways. The first way is our traditional, you know, we're traveling out, we're bringing, doing this sensory exploration therapeutic nature program that builds nature connectedness through repeated sensory exploration. It activates that parasympathetic nervous system to relax, renew that stress reduction of nature. There's that aspect to it. But something that we actually started just before Covid and we've been able to get back up and running, is we have a couple of critters, nothing crazy, some snails, a snake, some Madagascar Cockroaches that live with us at Nature Connection. Pat: Excuse me. Of course, everyone has Madagascar Cockroaches! Okay. I'm sorry, I just had to butt in and say that. Please continue. Taylor: They're really very cool. They can get up to like two, three inches long. So, they're, they're great insects when you're like trying to really look at an insect, especially for someone that has maybe some visual impairment or something like that. But yeah, you get that kinda like, ew factor as well around Halloween. But anyways, we have some critters that we have that live with us here at Nature Connection that need to be taken care of. And yeah, we have a huge collection of plants as well, to be taken care of. So, we've started a volunteer program, which to me is really just like a program in reverse that we're doing where we have specifically set aside blocks of time for kids in group homes or special education or therapeutic schools to come and volunteer with us to help take care of these animals. Taylor: You know...on our end, it's similar to a program 'cause we need to have a dedicated staff member there to kind of walk through and go with them. But it flips the script a little bit, right? We're not just showing up and we're like, hey, explore some nature. We're like, Nope, this is really meaningful. We need to take care of the animals. It has a real purpose and real meaning. Put it on an activity resume, put it on your resume for work experience. And our organization, our staff are coming with the understanding that these kids are coming to us from these particular backgrounds where it's challenging. And one day, they might not be able to show up. They might be having behavior challenges, whatever's going on. It doesn't mean that you're fired, it doesn't mean that you can't come back, we know that. So, it's really providing a stepping stone in their integration into the community that they're in. So that's been a really amazing program. Pat: So, they come in and their job is to take care of, let's say the Madagascar Cockroach or the snake or the snails. So, they come in, they do their part to take care of it. And what I'm struck by is that at the heart of that is learning to trust, that you guys are setting up a wonderful platform, much like teachers do. You have to earn the trust of your students to have any kind of learning happen. And ... they have to work, it's like something that they can feel proud of that, yeah, I'm taking care of the snails or I'm doing this. So that's really a phenomenal approach that they come in and participate. Taylor: Yeah, it's great. And they get to spend time with the animals and work with them. So, it's a win-win, win all way around. Pat: Well then, Taylor, can you describe a powerful, memorable experience where the Nature Connection program pushed beyond the boundaries of someone's life and brought them joy? Taylor: Oh, yeah. One story that's coming to mind was me personally out on a program a couple years back. There was a little boy, he's in a, in a group home. It was a, a residential therapeutic school. So, he lived there, went to school there with 12 other boys, and we would come in once a month. And this particular program, we had a bearded dragon with us. His name was Jim. He is the chillest bearded dragon I've ever met. Would just flop and sit there and really just let the kids ooh and awe over him. But this little boy was very afraid to pet him. So, we went through this whole process where I put my hand in the way, kind of blocking his head, and Jim was very accommodating and let us put a little wash rag over his face. Taylor: So, it was like, there's no way that he is gonna bite you. But even if he wanted to, no way this is gonna happen. And little boy reached out and he did pet Jim. He touched him very, very lightly, but like, just this huge explosion of joy in that moment. High fives all around. He reached out and he challenged himself and did this thing that was so scary, pushed his boundaries. And one of my favorite quotes is, "A mind stretched by a new experience can never return to old dimensions.” Right? He stretched, had a new experience, touched that bearded dragon. The best part for me is we came back the next month with a chicken and he comes running up and he is so excited. What did you bring? What did you bring? And I tell him, we've got a chicken. And he is like, all right, I'm gonna pet it. And I know that I can, because I did it with Jim, the bearded dragon. So, he took that like amazing explosion in the moment, but then carried it forward into that next month, into that next program. And, you know, that he took that into other things as well. I faced my fears, I did it, and it worked. Pat: What a beautiful life-changing moment. You mentioned a little bit earlier that how we've become disconnected from nature in our everyday life. And I was thinking about it getting ready for this podcast that people have to plan special trips, or they scroll through social media just to catch a glimpse of nature. And when you think of urban dwellers who can go for weeks without seeing a tree, it's as if we've put nature outside of ourselves as if we made it separate from our very existence. What can we do to bring nature back into our lives? Taylor: Yeah. It's such a real problem. I think that this is a fundamental issue, not only when we think of ourselves and our mental health and wellbeing, but when we think of things like climate change and some of the larger issues facing our planet. Because if, if you don't personally have a connection with nature, it is that much harder to get invested. And to care about some of these larger issues. So, this idea of nature connectedness, exactly what you described, you know, there is a scale of how connected do you see yourself with nature, how integral is it to who you are and your day-to-day life. And it's, it is something that we build over time through repeated sensory exploration with nature. So think little kids running around, outside playing, pulling up grass, looking for caterpillars, turning over rocks that builds this idea. But you need it over and over again. It's like going to the gym. You can't just do it once and expect to be good forever. It's something that every day would be the correct amount. Taylor: I don't think it has to be as big as, as sometimes we think that it does. You don't have to take a trip to the beach. You don't have to go climb a mountain. You could just go sit outside on your lunch break, take an extra minute on your trip to the car, to, to look up and see the clouds or the stars, depending on what time of day it is. when you, when you hear a bird song, you know, stop for a second and listen just for a second. And just like those teeny, little pieces start sneaking their way into your life. Yeah. Pat: You know, you, you touched on it earlier, that C O V I D caused many people to discover nature. One way I would phrase it is that many people discovered their backyards. And I have to say for myself, I'm an artist. My studio I built is 12 feet from the house. And I put a green room, I built a green room in there with shrubs and miniature trees and flowers. But during C O V I D I would go out there and all of a sudden, I'm seeing the number of squirrels, the number of chipmunks, the bunnies. We even had ducks waddling through our yard. And so all of a sudden, I thought, how did I miss this before I looked at flowers and shrubs? But it was the, the furry creatures, the winged creatures that all of a sudden came to life. And when I went online, people started talking about, and social media, oh, my backyard, I noticed, or this animal came back there, you know, whatever it is, it seemed like, and C O V I D was horrendous. I wouldn't wish that on anybody. But as we're getting away from it, there were some dark angel gifts that came from it. And I think one of them was the discovery of, of nature. Taylor: Yeah. And like you said, your own backyard, you don't need that much space to start noticing. And I love that phrase that you said, “I notice” because you don't need to know facts. Nature, documentaries have us so trained that like you need to know your facts about nature in order to appreciate it. But you, you don't, you so don't. You can really just go outside, and I promise you, if you look at the same little square foot of dirt every day, something about it is gonna be different. You're gonna be able to notice something. Pat: Now I'm urban. But one of the things I've done, and it started as a way to, to just relax and calm myself. I go outside in my little green room; I close my eyes and I count 10 different sounds that I hear. And I thought, well, there's not that many. What are you doing? And you know what, Taylor, there were more than 10. So, every day there were different sounds, birds, dogs barking, whatever it was, it was my way of going into the now, meditating into the now, the world around us, the audio world . Pat: It was phenomenal. So, as you say, “I notice,” and that to me is huge. Taylor: It's amazing how much there is. And, and now we're like slipping into this conversation, getting on the fringes of mindfulness and how wonderful that is. And nature is everywhere. Nature is everything. It's this big raw material that is just completely covering our planet and we can put all of these different lenses in front of it. So whatever way it works for us, nature just becomes this catalyst for us to, to get more in tuned and slow down. And whether that's counting the audio, counting the blades of grass, petting the dog, there are all these different ways that we can interact and get into even cooking. People that think that like, oh no, I don't have connection to nature. That's not for me. I would say even your food is nature. You know, get into some herbs and spices, and think about where your food's coming from. And that in itself can lead you right into those connections. Pat: That's huge. You know, on your website, you guys have on there that you have over 15,000 nature connections. So, as I was thinking about that, can you tell us what are some of the long-term benefits that participants have reported back to you from their interaction with your program? Taylor: Yeah. I tell you; I do know of one girl that went on to vet school because of The Nature Connection Program visiting her group home. That is like one of those big, huge kind of long-term moments there. But I will say a lot of the folks that we work with are in memory care, have dementia, have disabilities and degenerative diseases. So that in itself can make it tough. You know, we're not seeing folks really get better over time, but what we do see is the ripple effect of a positive moment in the day. And even when we're talking about folks with dementia and Alzheimer's, their emotional knowledge, and abilities, they're still largely intact in the deeper parts of the brain. And so the facts of the situation, the fact that we were there, that we brought a bunny rabbit and explored a forest meadow in the summer, that part might go, but the feeling of connection and being in this room with bubbly energy and conversation and someone stopped to listen to your story about that time where you had rabbits all over your, that piece stays and you know that you have those little positive moments in your day, and that can change everything. Taylor: That changes your own mood. It changes the caretaker's mood, your family members' mood when they come to see you. So just enough of those small positive moments and you really get a really large ripple effect coming out of just goodness, joy, wonder all around. Pat: So, I'd like to flip the discussion a little bit. Can you discuss some of the challenges the Nature Connection faces in its mission to make sure nature-based programming is accessible to everyone regardless of location, personal abilities, or socioeconomic status. What kind of challenges do you guys run into? Taylor: I mentioned before resources are the big one, but any nonprofit in any social justice kind of movement and money is always the big one that you can point a finger to. But I think time and people, you know, we talked a little bit earlier where we're trying to have these very personal connections, need to be able to have these very personal connections. So, we need to make sure that there's enough volunteers, interns, staff in the room that are able to engage with all of these folks that come in. Our groups can be anywhere from just a couple of people to upwards of 20, 25 people in the room. And when we get that big of a group, then we need more volunteers. We need more folks with us to come in and talk with people. Taylor: So folks aren't just sitting there too long waiting and sure there's a really cool display to look at, but, you know, having the time for someone there to talk to and being able to, I think, find people as well that are willing to sit in that intersection of nature, exploration, naturalist, environmental educator along with that really high emotional capacity to sit with someone and carve out that space and the time for them and be able to overcome those communication challenges. Some of our folks, they really are nonverbal. They use communication boards, find gross motor difficulties. So, it really is each person that we're talking to, a different style of communication and being able to go around and talk with all of these different folks on an individual level in a room. It's a skill. Pat: Okay. Taylor, we are talking macro what the program does, it's obvious the Nature Connection program is incredibly inspiring in the way it just touches so many lives. Now, I wanna know from when you started there to now, how has it affected you personally? Taylor: Oh, so many ways, and I think it's an understated piece of this organization because so much of our focus is on our participants as it should be. But I have personally seen so much growth happen with our volunteers, with our interns, with our staff, with myself, where this is an organization that is so committed to honoring the individual, the individual's experiences, the individual's knowledge, their abilities. And so I think all of those other folks that are working to make these programs happen for participants, they get that benefit as well. You know, it's just the environment that's been created here. And so, they too get to feel seen and heard and, and I mean, that can make all the difference in your life. Sometimes when things get challenging, to have a community of people that you can come to and feel seen and feel heard and know that your experiences are mattering here and being aware of that and in tune with that. So, I think it's helped plenty of us on the, the back end of things. Just through life's challenges as well, dealing with the things that come up over the years. Pat: The life things. Yes. I love the back-and-forthness, I know that's not a word, but I don't care, the back-and-forthness of your organization, that the goodness goes out to the community. It comes back to the people who are participating and it's so fluid that way. It's so fluid! And it makes me think at the core of The Nature Connection is empathy and compassion. It not only brings nature to people, but you really go the distance to understand their unique struggles and needs. This is a remarkable alchemy that fuses nature's profound ability to nourish our souls with the means to reach those most in need. And it has the capacity to transform lives. You know, I love your passion. I love your enthusiasm, your energy, and I suspect that the people in your organization suffer from the same thing, this passion and joy in the work that you do. I wanna wish continued success to you Taylor, and to all the dedicated people who make the Nature Connection such a powerful force for good. Thank you so much. Taylor: Thank you so much for having us on, being able to share the story. You know, that's half the battle is getting the word out, and let people know that we're here and that this is something that's going on in the world. Pat: So where can people learn more about the Nature Connection? And Hey folks, if you're in the Boston area and you wanna volunteer or anybody wants to donate, where can they get ahold of you? Taylor: Our website is, https://www.nature-connection.org/ It's got all of our information on there. We're also on social media. You find us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. Pat: Once again, thank you Taylor for joining us today. And thank you listeners for joining us on Fill To Capacity. If you've enjoyed the podcast, please let your friends know and pass the word along. Thank you. LINKS The Nature Connection    

In the summer of 2017, Margaret "Peggy" Thornton Lammers took some time to relax at her family's "river house," in Deltaville, an idyllic community in Virginia's Middlesex County. The home sat right on the banks of the Piankatank River, and should have been a place of rest for the beloved 61-year-old mother-of-three adult children. After all, she had just spent quite a while traveling between her home in Cleveland, Ohio — where she lived with her husband Anthony Joseph or "Tony" Lammers — and Richmond as she finalized her late parents' estate.Unfortunately, on July 11, 2017, Peggy's body was found in the river house she so loved. She had been murdered. Her case is still unsolved.In this episode, we interviewed three investigators in the Lammers case: detectives Chris Gatling and John Graca of the Middlesex County Sherrif's Department and FBI Special Agent Mark Matthews. These men are each determined to close out Peggy's case and secure answers for her family. They will take us through this brutal killing, the staged crime scene, and reveal more details about Peggy's cause of death.The investigators need the public's help. Somebody out there knows something about what happened to Peggy. If you have information on this case, call the Middlesex Sheriff's Office's dedicated tipline at 804-758-5600 or the FBI's field office in Richmond, Virginia at 804-261-1044. You can also reach the FBI at the email address: tips@fbi.gov or the phone number 1-800-CALLFBI. Further reading on this case:The FBI's video footage and information page: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/seeking-info/margaret-thornton-lammersThe Daily Beast's 2022 piece: https://www.thedailybeast.com/margaret-peggy-lammers-murder-in-deltaville-virginia-most-likely-done-by-someone-she-knew-police-sayPeople's 2022 piece: https://people.com/crime/mothers-unsolved-2017-murder-still-haunts-familys-beloved-virginia-vacation-beach-house/Send tips to murdersheet@gmail.com.The Murder Sheet is a production of Mystery Sheet LLC.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The program served a swath of suburban towns along the Route 2 corridor and rural towns in Middlesex County. Emerson Health says the program saw a "limited number" of patients, and it's shifting priorities to focus on inpatient and emergency behavioral health care.

MSF Show es un segmento donde su enfoque es despertar la conciencia del oyente con temas de familia y pareja de una manera distinta.INFORMACIÓN DE INTERESMiss Republica Dominicana de Middlesex County, NJ 2023:https://www.instagram.com/miss.rd.mcnj/Patrocinio Miss Republica Dominicana de Middlesex, NJ 2023:https://www.domcnj.org/sponsorshipsMás información contáctanos:MSF Group LLC1.848.482.9337bit.ly/Msfgroupchannelhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjJhr_nZXRHvL_GT9JqFWVQhttps://www.instagram.com/msfgroupchannel/

I had the opportunity to meet and speak with some incredible, amazing and talented women for this episode. I attended the NY Now Gift Show and the Curve New York Winter Show in February. The first interview is with Elina Sofia Wang. She is the CEO & Co-Founder of ESW Beauty. Elina has created sustainably-made beauty products made with non-toxic ingredients, vegan & cruelty-free formulas, which are inspired by foods & beverages.ESW Beauty is a female-founded company with a mission to support other women. Elina's mission is to empower other females to achieve their dreams & prioritize their self love.ESW Beauty partners with Women Aware, a non-profit organization, that promotes the safety and self-sufficiency of individuals and families affected by domestic violence in Middlesex County, New Jersey. Our promise is to donate 10% of the profits from eswbeauty.com to Women Aware every month. Website:  ESW Beauty Instagram: esw.beautyCurve New York is a B2B for Buyers and industry influencers to see new collections from 175+ top brands of lingerie, intimates, sleepwear, swimwear, activewear and accessories. There were representatives from all around the country. I spoke with three female business owners from the German Pavilion, Yanna, Co-Founder of Tizz & Tonic; Emily Renk of Zodiaque Studios and Christina Vivacqua-Weyers of Happy Undies.I hope you enjoy this episode and listen to find out more about these incredible women and where you can purchase their products!Yanna of Tizz & TonicTizz & Tonic was founded by two sisters, Yanna & Imke, in 2017. They are a Canadian-sister duo who ended up in Germany starting a business together. They were raised by culture-curious, world-traveling parents that taught them that the sky's the limit, but the sky is beautiful and should be kept as so.So they created Tizz & Tonic to get you more excited about greener fashion and be inspired to invest in better clothing. Uncomplicated style, uncompromised ethics - that's what Tizz & Tonic are all about. Designed to energize you for each new day!Website:  TizzandtonicInstagram:  tizzandtonicEmily Renk of Zodiaque StudiosZodiaque Studiosis a project exploring fashion and contemporary culture based in Berlin. Their collections are created with a passion for luxury that celebrates the senses and finding strength in vulnerability. Zodiaque Studios was founded by Emily Renk while studying at Central Saint Martins in London.Website: Zodiaque StudiosInstagram:  @ZodiaqueStudiosChristina Vivacqua-Weyers of Happy UndiesHappy Undies is a modern trendy style inspired by colors and a flamboyant mood. It is a sporty and comfortable underwear that can also be worn in water as beachwear. Vivacqua is a lifestyle company from Munich for whom underwear is everything.Happy UnSupport the show

Community Solutions is a US-based nonprofit working to end homelessness through its Built for Zero program. Built for Zero is a movement uniting cities with the tools and strategy they need to help those affected by homelessness. By using Amazon Web Services (AWS), Community Solutions can create and share dashboards with local organizations to help visualize progress and facilitate on the ground research. To better understand how the Built for Zero program is directly supporting local organizations in the US, the Fix This team sat down with Lauren D'Amico, a member of the Built for Zero infrastructure team, Eileen O'Donnell, executive director of Coming Home of Middlesex County, and Christiana Osawe, system solution navigator at Coming Home of Middlesex County, to hear how Middlesex County, New Jersey has directly benefited from the Built for Zero services.

Tom O'Neill is a legendary political figure in his own right - operative, legislator, statewide official, government relations juggernaut - and is, of course, the eldest son of former US House Speaker Tip O'Neill. In this conversation, Tom talks early memories growing up in a political household, lessons from his father, time spent around figures like John Kennedy and Ted Kennedy, the ups and downs of his own political career, and great stories and insights as an observer and participant at the highest level of politics.IN THIS EPISODEEarly memories, political and otherwise, growing up in North Cambridge, MA in the 1940s and 50s…The impact of Tom's mother Millie on his father's and his own political career…The role opposing the Vietnam War played in his father's career…Remembering the “last of the great Irish vs Italian” primaries when Tip O'Neil replaced John Kennedy in the US House…The impact of his grandfather Tom O'Neill Sr…Breaking down the political skills and career of Tip O'Neill…Tom recalls his time around John F. Kennedy…Tom recounts running campaign for and with Ted Kennedy…Tom talks the significance of another Massachusetts House Speaker, John McCormack…Tom on his own path of running and winning political office…Tom remembers the energy in the Massachusetts legislature of the 1970s…Tom's successful elections running for Lt Governor…The story behind his final run for office in 1982…How Tom was thinking of his future after being out of office before the age of 40…Highlights and insights from nearly four decades in government affairs…How close he came to running to succeed his father in 1986…Tom talks the importance of the Big Dig in modernizing Boston…Tom's recommendations of the best sites of Boston, including his favorite Irish pub and Italian restaurant… AND American metaphors, Back Bay, Birch Bayh, Beacon Hill, the Bellevue Hotel, bocce courts, the Boston telephone directory, Jimmy Breslin, the Bricklayers Union, Brighton, Jimmy Carter, Silvio Conte, Charles De Gaulle, William Delahunt, Delaware North, the Department of Sewers, Paul Dever, Leo Diehl, Brian Donnelly, Mike Dukakis, Donald Dwight, Charlie Flaherty, Gerald Ford, Barney Frank, Newt Gingrich, the Green Necklace, Harvard, John Hume, Joe Kennedy, Ed King, Paul Kirk, Ed Markey, Joe McCarthy, Mike Neville, Middlesex County, Richard Nixon, Mrs. O'Brien, the Odessa Sea, old Italian matriarchs, Regulars, John Rhodes, FDR, Jimmy Roosevelt, Blanche Rufo, Fred Salvucci, Frank Sargent, Haile Selassie, self-righteousness, Al Smith, Sovereign Bank, steel jungles, street corner games, thumbing to Washington, Donald Trump, Paul Tsongas, Watergate, white Xs & more.

STEPHANIE SENDAULA, PANELS HOST: A librarian and writer from New Jersey, Stephanie currently works in community engagement and outreach for LibraryLinkNJ. ANGUS KRESS GILLESPIE is a professor of American Studies at Rutgers University. His many books about the cultural implications of civil engineering include Looking for America on the New Jersey Turnpike (1989), coauthored with Michael Aaron Rockland, recognized by the New Jersey State Library as one of the ten best books ever written about the state. MARK NONESTIED has lived in East Brunswick for most of his life. In 1987 at the age of 15, he pedaled across town on his bicycle to the East Brunswick Museum to learn about the town's history. He never left, having served for almost 35 years as a volunteer researching and writing about the town's history. ETHAN REISS is co-author of the upcoming new book, East Brunswick: Through the Years. Having lived in East Brunswick for most of his life, he has worked under Middlesex County's Division of Historic Sites and History Services at East Jersey Old Town Village, and currently serves on the Board of Trustees at the East Brunswick Museum. He is best known for sharing rare and historic East Brunswick photographs through his various Facebook groups and pages. NEAL STOFFERS: Retired Newark Fire Captain Neal Stoffers earned a BA and MA in Asian Studies from Seton Hall University, writing about NJ's first Chinese community for his MA thesis. He has produced 11 books based on his oral history project of the Newark Fire Department, has given 3 book talks on his work, & has also written middle grade, young adult, & adult novels about the fire service, the Amer-Asian experience, Multiple Sclerosis, & the Chinese in 19th Century NJ. Originally recorded on October 16, 2022 as part of EBPL's Local Author Day.

STEPHANIE SENDAULA, PANELS HOST: A librarian and writer from New Jersey, Stephanie currently works in community engagement and outreach for LibraryLinkNJ. RACHELLE BURK writes fiction and nonfiction books for children ages 2-13. She has visited schools in 17 states with her Author Visit presentations. Rachelle is also known locally as children's entertainer Tickles the Clown and Mother Goof Storyteller. Visit her websites: www.Rachelleburk.com and TicklesEntertainment.blogspot.com. JENNIFER SALVATO DOKTORSKI is the author of four young adult novels. A proud Jersey girl, she lives with her family in Middlesex County and spends summers "down the shore," where everything is always all right. Visit her at www.jendoktorski.com or follow her on IG @authorjendoktorski and Facebook. JOE RUTCH wrote his book as part of an adolescent literature class at Kean University. The project tied in nicely with his belief in the power of reading as the foundation to a better and more successful life. He now awaits his biggest fans (his grandkids) to become movie moguls and turn his book into a blockbuster to counter the drivel that is peddled to today's kids as entertainment. Wow!!! He sounds just like grandpa in his book! Originally recorded on October 16, 2022 as part of EBPL's Local Author Day.

Host Eric Reardon introduces himself while giving some background on his baseball journey thus far. Insight into the recruiting process, high school travel ball, college baseball, college summer ball, with some baseball philosophy mixed in throughout. Eric is currently the pitching coach at Rutgers University - Newark and a coach at the Baseball Warehouse in Middlesex County, NJ. He played his HS baseball at North Brunswick Township High School where he was 2015 GMC Conference Player of the Year. Reardon then went on to play B1G baseball at Rutgers University where he was a captain for the 2020 and 2021 seasons. He is 6th all time in appearance for the Scarlet Knights having pitched 99.0 innings over 77 appearances.

In another example of the system walking slowly toward doing the right thing in the drug lab case, a judge in Middlesex County is looking into if Annie Dookhan was, in fact, the lone bad actor. Everyone who is reading this knows that and has known it since this Podcast came out back in 2020 but it is good that the wheels of justice are finally turning. Cheris returns to discuss what this could mean and where the case could go from here.

Dr. Danielle Velez Leitner grew up in Middlesex County, NJ, and graduated from the Johns Hopkins University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Materials Science and Engineering. After 2 years in management consulting, she pivoted to Medicine. Dr. Velez Leitner attended the Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, where she became interested in Urology. She completed her Urology residency at Brown University and then went on to a fellowship in Male Infertility and Sexual Dysfunction at the University of Illinois at Chicago with Dr. Craig Niederberger. Her clinical focuses are on male infertility, particularly fertility preservation for cancer patients and those undergoing gender-affirming treatments, hypogonadism, benign prostatic hypertrophy treatments, and male sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction.  In this episode we discuss What is “normal” sexual performance? The most common questions men ask about their penis Cialis or Viagra? There are penis implants? This Episode is brought to you by One Farm, LMNT, InsideTracker, 1stPhorm

This week we're replaying a classic episode where your hosts Steve Lowry and Yvonne Godfrey interview Marc Diller of Diller Law, P.C. (https://www.dillerlaw.com/). Remember to rate and review GTP in iTunes: Click Here To Rate and Review   Episode Details: Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum member Marc Diller of Diller Law, P.C. explains how he secured justice for tenant Cathrine Erickson when her landlord failed to prepare her Watertown, Massachusetts rental property for winter, creating a dangerous situation that resulted in permanent injury to Cathrine's right leg. After being informed by Cathrine and other tenants that the drain at the end of the sloped driveway was not working properly, landlord Rosalie Cunio chose to withhold important property information and ignore the contractor's proposed solution in favor of a cheap fix. The repair was ineffective, as water continued to pool, taking days to drain. The drainage problem was compounded when winter came and Rosalie did not "winterize" the rental property, including shutting off the exterior water. In February 2013, Cathrine returned home from her job as head coach of Northeastern University's track and field team and slipped on black ice caused by water spraying from a hose. As a result, Cathrine sustained a serious injury requiring a titanium rod as well as seven screws to stabilize her right leg. Today, this accomplished coach struggles with mobility and suffers from chronic pain. In March 2019, trial lawyer Marc Diller detailed the landlord's negligence and violations of common sense safety practices to a Middlesex County, Massachusetts jury. The jury returned a verdict in favor of Cathrine, awarding $2,324,815.62 in damages. Read/Download Trial Documents   Guest Bio: Marc Diller On May 15, 1992, Marc Diller was a senior in high school in Brookline, MA. Brookline's local paper, The Brookline Citizen, profiled Marc Diller as its Brookline Student of The Week. The article was titled, “Diller, an attorney in training”. Even back then, Marc's passion for service and the law was evident. Nearly 30 years later, Marc uses that passion to deliver safety and justice to his clients. Marc helps people and their families during their most vulnerable times. It's his ethos to hold corporations and insurance companies accountable for wrongdoings. Marc fights corporate and individual wrongdoers when it results in wrongful death or catastrophic injury. Marc doesn't back down from the fight. Throughout his 20+ year career, Marc has held property owners, who maintain dangerous conditions, accountable for their wrongdoings. He has made companies take responsibility for the death or losses that result from making, designing or selling dangerous products. Marc also makes employers on construction sites answer for unsafe work conditions. When motorcyclists, pedestrians, bicyclists and those in cars are killed or injured by dangerous drivers and the companies that employ them, Marc seeks justice. He goes after the drunk, distracted and drowsy drivers, the companies that employ them and the restaurants, bars, and clubs that ignore safe service practices and let drivers drive dangerously. “Our client's trust us to do right by them,” says Diller “and I insist that all Diller Law, PC's lawyers care about safety and accountability in our community.” Marc grew up in Brookline, MA, the son of a lawyer and an educator. At the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor he wrote for the Michigan Daily newspaper, majoring in English and communications. From there, he went to Suffolk University Law School, his father William's alma mater. Marc worked with his dad at the Law Offices of William Diller starting in 1997. William mentored Marc until 2013. Marc learned a lot from William's 40+ years experience in law. William was the editor-in-chief of the Suffolk Law Review ('69), clerked for Justice Reardon at the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ('70), was an associate at one of Boston's premier law firms, and during William's 40 years in private practice, he handled many complex and significant personal injury cases. In 2013 Marc started DILLER LAW, P.C. Marc's aggressive, yet practical approach to litigating and resolving personal injury cases has earned him recognition from his peers in the legal community. Professionally, Marc serves on numerous legal organizations and committees dedicated to the ethical and competent litigation of cases as well as the proper administration of justice. Personally, Marc is the father of two children. He coaches recreational basketball for his sons. In his free time, Marc enjoys golfing and watching movies. Lawyers all over the country consult Marc, who has appeared in State and Federal trial courts as well as our State's appellate court. Read Full Bio   Show Sponsors: Legal Technology Services - LegalTechService.com Digital Law Marketing - DigitalLawMarketing.com Harris Lowry Manton LLP - hlmlawfirm.com

On August 12th and 13th, 2022 the Heart Festival events will take place in New Brunswick.  This concept of bringing the arts and people of all different cultures came together in early 2020 and then the pandemic began.  I had the pleasure of speaking with Ms. Tracey O'Reggio, Interim Executive Director with New Brunswick Cultural Center, Ms. Sarah Ferreira Content Manager with the New Brunswick Cultural Center, Ms. Kelly Blithe, Director of Communications, State Theatre of New Jersey, and Mr. Dontae Muse Co-Owner and Creative Director, Above Art Studios.  We have a wonderful discussion why the heart festival is important and what it means for the city of New Brunswick and Middlesex County.  Be inspired by the Arts!

The Nature Connection aims to improve the well-being of individuals and communities through the therapeutic use of nature by bringing the outside - inside, through plants, animals, and natural materials to people in its service area of Middlesex County, MA, and beyond!  You'll hear from The Nature Connection's program director Taylor Eagan in this episode. We chat about how The Nature Connection makes the healing power of nature accessible to people of all abilities and backgrounds and how you can do the same.  Sign up for The Nature Connection Newsletter: https://www.nature-connection.org/ Episode Show Notes: https://lenasamford.com/the-nature-connection-the-healing-power-of-accessible-nature-with-taylor-eagan/  

In the early morning hours of April 19, 1775, Paul Revere was making a mad dash through Middlesex County just west of Boston. He was trying to avoid British patrols but was stopped by one briefly before making his getaway, the roads were soft and muddy from the heavy rains of the previous day and he was able to elude his captors. It was not last time the weather would play a part in that fateful day. Revere galloped from town to town, from farm to farm to warn that the British regulars were coming to seize the stores of powder and shot local militias had been hiding to defend themselves from British tyranny. Rouse them he did. As the author Rick Atkinson states in his book “The British Are Coming”, and I quote. “Across the colony, in an image that would endure for centuries, solemn men grabbed their firelocks and stalked off in search of danger” The British left Boston and rowed across the Harbor to Charlestown and started the march to Lexington. There in Lexington, they encountered a band of local militia, and when the patriots assembled refused orders to disperse the British fired. The colonials were routed. The British then marched on to Concord, where thousands of militia from all over New England had gathered, warned by Revere and other riders. The British found themselves out gunned and outflanked. The first pitched battle of the revolution turned into the colonial victory. The British had planned to bring about their small cannon with them to teach the rebels a lesson. That ordnance would have come in handy that day. But the roads were still soft and muddy on April 19, 1775. Even though the sun was out, it was a chilly Spring day because the cold front that had brought that rain the day before. The canons got stuck in the mud on the road from Boston and had to be left behind. The battle perhaps turned on the muddy road and the rainy weather from the day before. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mike, the senior forward for the Falcons of Middlesex County's Monroe Township High School, suffered an injury during a hockey game, which would leave him paralyzed at the age of 17 in January 2014. Now he motivates us with an amazing mentality and his strength. “The world never needed me on hockey skates, it needed me in a wheelchair. My fight will not be over until there aren't any more wheelchairs.” Sorry about the audio quality on this episode. We had some technical issues and had to resort to the zoom recording audio.

What does it mean to be haunted? For most people, it does not mean the strange or supernatural, but the all-too real: a scar from childhood, an opportunity missed, a wrong never righted. For the late Charlotte Mills, it was the murder of her mother on September 14th, 1922 on the outskirts of New Brunswick, New Jersey. Her mother's body lay beside that of their Episcopalian parish priest, Edward Hall. Love letters between the two were scattered about the bodies. Edward Hall had been shot once in the face. Her mother, however, had been absolutely brutalized. While the coroner failed to conduct a proper autopsy, he did, out of curiosity, cut open Eleanor to see if she was pregnant. Charlotte Mills, just sixteen years old, was interrogated by the police and press corps about all possible suspects to the murder: Was it her father, an impovershed groundskeeper for the church? Was it Edward's wife, the solemn (and wealthy heiress) Frances Hall? Was it Edward's brother-in-law, the eccentric Willie Stevens? Was it the KKK? Was it thieves? Immigrants? Some other scapegoat? Nothing was simple, and nothing could be proved.Charlotte, of course, could not do the police's job for them. But that didn't mean she didn't try. But, by 1926 she had been driven to quit the chase when Frances Hall and her brothers were acquitted at trial. She then moved to New York City, and tried to "make it" as a clerk at a bank.  She told the press that she considered herself a "flapper," but she never had the cash to run with that crowd. She never felt safe after her mother's murder, and she died at the age of 45. So today, we will be joining Charlotte in her own mind, as she lives and relives the moments surrounding her mother's murder.This episode was brought to you by the New Brunswick Historical Society, Thinkery & Verse and Butch Mermaid Productions. Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County board of chosen freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. Our theme music this season comes from Blimp66 of Freesound.org. Once again, today's play featured talented voice actor Karen Alvarado. It was written, directed, and edited by JM Meyer and you may have recognized my voice for the hymn. As always, I'm your host and engineer, Erin Bogert, and one final time, thank you for listening.

Today we'll be taking a trip to The Edison Sanitarium, the site where Charlotte Mills, daughter of murder victim Eleanor Mills, lived out the last months of her tragic life. Today we'll hear two stories centering Charlotte. The first explores Charlotte's mental state whilst living and dying in the midst of a media frenzy dedicated to sensationalizing her mother's death. The second is adapted from an article by a 1950s newspaper reporter who reflects on how and why Charlotte Mills ended up at the Sanitarium. This episode was brought to you by the New Brunswick Historical Society and Thinkery & Verse. Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County board of chosen freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. Our theme music this season comes from Blimp66 of Freesound.org. Today's radio play was written by Johnny Meyer, Whitney Bolten, and Ashley Bufkin. Ashely also directed this piece and performed alongside Karen Alvarado, who was our editor for this radio play. As always, I'm your host and engineer, Erin Bogert.

For today's radio play, we will be joined by the ghosts Frances Hall and Willy Stevens. If you ever care to visit, these siblings can be found in Brooklyn, New York, in the Greenwood Cemetery, lot 10411, section 50. They lie together in the Steven's Family Crypt, among their other brother Henry Stevens, and the murdered Edward Hall, late husband to Frances. Although, I should note, that none of their names are to be found on the site. As you'll recall, Mrs. Hall together with Willy and Henry, though acquitted, were all accused of Edward Hall's murder. Yet, together they remain. For all eternity, I suppose. Let's take a visit.This episode was brought to you by the New Brunswick Historical Society, Thinkery & Verse, and Butch Mermaid Productions. Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County board of chosen freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. Our theme music this season comes from Blimp66 of Freesound.org. Today's radio play featured actual excerpts from the New York Times, followed by a short scene written by Johnny Meyer. It was directed by Ania Upstill, edited by Kendall Perry, and voiced by Ania Upstill and Frank Dolce. The hymn was sung by yours truly, also your host and engineer, Erin Bogert. I'll see you next time, until then.

Hi, I'm your host, Erin Bogert, and you're listening to another Ghost Hunt episode. Today I'm bringing you to The Somerset Courthouse of Somerset county, New Jersey, the large, towering marble building that remains as it did when the Hall-Mills trial was held there in 1926. The Hall-Mills trial became the first media circus of the 20th century. In today's excerpt, we really dig into that theme… you'll see what I mean. In with the mix of zaniness, you'll also find disturbing verbatim content. It may not give you a lot of confidence in the justice system, but it does have the virtue of being a true story. So, please join me as we travel inside to hear echoes of voices from the past, reverberating off the courthouse's cold, hard walls.This episode was brought to you by the New Brunswick Historical Society, Thinkery & Verse, and Butch Mermaid Productions. Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County board of chosen freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. Our theme music this season comes from Blimp66 of Freesound.org. Today's radio play was written by Johnny Meyer, directed by Rebecca Servon, and edited by Kendall Perry and JM Meyer. Our talented voice actors include Karen Alvarado, Ashely Bufkin, Celine Dirkes, Frank Dolce, Johnny Kavanagh, Johnny Meyer, Kaitlin Ormerod Hutson, Rebecca Servon, Lazarus Simmons, Joey Sponseller, Reagan Tankersley, and Ania Upstill. I'm your host and engineer, Erin Bogert. 

Hello everybody and welcome back to another Ghost Hunt episode. I'm your host, Erin Bogert, bringing to you (you guessed it!) another radio play. In the last episode, I mentioned how Frances Hall, a prime suspect in the Hall-Mills double homicide case, took a vacation to Europe not long after the grand jury failed to indict anyone. In today's radio play, we find Mrs. Hall, joined by her friend Sally Peters, embarking on that journey.It's early February, 1923, and at Manhattan's Pier 55, a band of newspaper photographers are swarming the S.S. Mauretania (MORE-EH-TAY-NIA), an ocean liner setting out for Europe. They had been tipped off that Mrs. Frances Hall would be aboard, but when they searched the ship with the help of the passengers, no sign of her could be found. Instead, Mrs. Hall is forty blocks to the north of Pier 55, on the steam liner “America'' bound for Genoa (JEN-O-UH) and Naples in Italy. Her and Sally Peters had asked that their names be left off the guest list in order to avoid those same reporters. And so, the two are able to enjoy a peaceful departure… Tale as old as time, isn't it? Money talks so the wealthy don't have to. The murders of Eleanor and Edward happened in September of 1922. By the end of that November, the grand jury had failed to indict anyone. While the Mills, especially Eleanor's daughter Charlotte remain desperate for answers, for justice, wealthy Frances Hall, a prime suspect, travels abroad to Europe, where she remains for months. How would this case have been different if Eleanor Mills and her family had been wealthy? If Frances Hall and hers had been poor? I wonder, I wonder…This episode was brought to you by the New Brunswick Historical Society and Thinkery & Verse. Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County board of chosen freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. Our theme music this season comes from Blimp66 of Freesound.org. Today's radio play was written by Ania Upstill and performed and edited by Karen Alvarado. I'm your host and engineer, Erin Bogert. 

 Hello folks, and welcome back once again to another episode of Ghost Hunt: the podcast where I, your host, Erin Bogert, bring you short and not-always-so-sweet radio plays that delve into the details surrounding the Hall-Mills murders. Today's radio play brings us into the home of Edwin R. and Elovine Carpender. The affluent Edwin R. Carpender was the first cousin of Mrs. Frances Hall. According to Middlesexcreates.com, his wife, Elovine Carpender was one of the founders of the Urban League in New Brunswick and the first female member of the Federal Housing Authority; prominent among Republican women in New Jersey. She was elected a delegate to the convention for the repeal of the 18th Amendment to the US Constitution repealing the prohibition of alcoholic beverages. On September 16, 1922, Elovine was the family member who first informed Mrs. Hall of her husband's death. Edwin had been the family member who identified the body of Rev. Edward Hall when it was found on DeRussey's Lane, and was in charge of the funeral arrangements for the rector. The couple lived caddy-corner and across the street from Frances Hall and her mansion at 23 Nichol Ave. In the 1920s, the Carpenders were one of New Brunswick's wealthiest families. Today, however, we will not be joining them in the great room for this radio play. Instead, we find ourselves in the kitchen, eavesdropping on the internal dialogue of their gossipy maid, Anne...This episode was brought to you by the New Brunswick Historical Society and Thinkery & Verse. Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County board of chosen freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. Our theme music this season comes from Blimp66 of Freesound.org. Today's radio play was written by Ania Upstill and performed and edited by Karen Alvarado. I'm your host and engineer, Erin Bogert. Thanks again for stopping by and I hope you'll join me again soon.

Hi, I'm Erin Bogert, your host, welcoming you back to Ghost Hunt. Today we visit a ghost near and dear to my heart, Pearl Bahmer, and I think you'll see why once we get started.In the summer and fall of 1922, New Brunswick teenager Pearl Bahmer was sexually assaulted by her father. To escape his abuse, Pearl sought the companionship of a young man named Raymond Schneider. But this didn't make things better. Raymond proved manipulative, jealous, and violent. On the morning of September 16th, 1922, Raymond pressured Pearl to go to DeRussy's lane, a so-called “Lover's Lane” outside of town. The details of what happened next are disputed. But what is known is that they saw the maimed corpses of the Reverend Edward Hall and the choir singer Eleanor Mills. At Pearl's insistence, they reported the bodies to the police. The political and criminal circus that became known as the Hall-Mills investigation had begun. And Pearl was at the center of it all. As more and more details came to light, Pearl began to receive death threats from Schneider's ex-wife, his friends and his family. Her father was arrested, and the newspapers tore apart every piece of her tragic life. She then tried to drown herself in the Raritan River. The police got her out and incarcerated her in a reform school. If you are experiencing suicidal ideation, going through difficulties, or just need someone to talk to, please call the New Jersey Hope line at 1-855-654-6735. Don't face it alone.This episode was brought to you by the New Brunswick Historical Society and Thinkery & Verse. Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County board of chosen freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. Our theme music this season comes from Blimp66 of Freesound.org. Today's radio play used actual transcripts of the testimony that Pearl delivered to the detectives in the course of their investigation. These original 1922 depositions were provided by The New Brunswick Free Public Library. The episode was directed by Johnny Meyer, and edited by Karen Alvarado. It was performed by Erin Bogert. Audio engineering and audio editing for Season 3 also provided by Erin Bogert. 

Welcome back to Ghost Hunt. I'm your host, Erin Bogert, and today's radio play brings you the ghost of Augusta Tennyson. Augusta was Eleanor Mills younger sister, the aunt to Eleanor's children, Charlotte and Daniel Mills. In fact, on the very night of their mother's infamous murder, Charlotte and Daniel happened to be visiting their aunt in her home. But we won't be joining them. Insead, we will  join Augusta the morning of Sept 16, 1922 when she and Eleanor's husband, James Mills, first learned that two bodies were discovered on the outskirts of town. We find Augusta speaking to her husband, Edward Tennyson, from their home in New Brunswick. So please, do come in.This episode was brought to you by the New Brunswick Historical Society and Thinkery & Verse. Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County board of chosen freeholders through a grant award from the Middlesex Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. Our theme music this season comes from Blimp66 of Freesound.org. Today's radio play was written, performed, and edited by Karen Alvarado. Thank you again for listening; I'm your host and engineer, Erin Bogert.