CNJ+ July 2026

nificent bird. I remember that it was only for a minute or two that the proud Bald Eagle unfolded his wings and flew off, pass the old canal, fly across the railroad tracks and headed to the apple orchard. I recall that it was Ziggy, who simply commented “amazing” and broke the silence, that we all held in reverence of this glorious bird. Life is so strange. Both, Thomas Meseck and I earned the coveted rank of Eagle Scout. Not an easy accomplishment, by any means. In September of 1965, Tom joined the Senior Patrol and became the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader of Boy Scout Troop 170. Tom passed the rod to me, and I became the Patrol Leader of the Beaver Patrol. A role that I took very seriously. By then, Elmo dropped out of scouts. It was the same time that my neighbor, George Yost, joined the Beaver Patrol. It was a magical time, a wonderful time, a golden era of innocence. In memory, I return to that incredible moment in time, when the scouts of the Beaver Patrol got to witness a Bald Eagle in flight. And, as if the odds were a million to one, Tom Meseck and I both became Eagle Scouts. In many ways, I think it was truly a prophecy, when Tom and I saw the grand Bald Eagle fly high in the sky, that we both would become Eagle Scouts. I know scouting has gotten a bad rap in the last few years. I don’t defend some of the horror stories that I’ve heard. All I can say is that I know, deep in my heart, that I’m a better person for having gone through the scouting program. Now, at 72, I cherish the privilege to have seen a Bald Eagle soar, high above in the blue sky. Life is all so very precious. Richard Mabey Jr. is a freelance writer. He has recently had two books pub lished. He currently hosts a YouTube Channel entitled, “Richard Mabey Pres ents.” Richard may be contacted at richardmabeyjr@gmail.com.

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Timmy’s Story: A SENSORY FRIENDLY BIRTHDAY By, Pam Teel Young Author Tim Rohrer, who has overcome many obstacles in his life due to his autism, is set to release his second children’s book. The book is a sequel to his first book, Timmy’s Story: A Story About Autism and Friendship . His first book, focuses on inclusion, and is based on his own past life experiences. His second book, Timmy’s Story: A Sensory Friendly Birthday, also is a reflection of his past, and teaches one about autism through the eyes of someone who lived it. For those with autism, sensory sensitivities may make birthday parties difficult to enjoy. Tim’s second book tells a true story, with that in mind, about how his teacher and his classmates made his birthday party one that he could enjoy. Tim’s brother Daniel, who is a senior at Allentown High School, is doing his senior practicum helping behind the scenes of “Tips4Inclusion.” He did the book editing for his brother. Tim has not only become an author but a speaker, self-advocate, and educator of disabilities. He has been asked to speak at schools, conferences, and has also received a commendation from the NJ State Senate and Assemblymen. He is also a managing partner of a teen founded nonprof it organization called 5Help Foundation. To learn more about Tim and the amazing resources he created, check out his website at: https://tips4inclusion.wixsite.com/disabilityinclusion. Tim’s new book is now available to purchase on Amazon. would have my shoulder canteen filled with fresh, cold water. After we all got together, in Tom’s backyard, we would begin our hiking adventure along the wooded path that led to the old Morris Canal. We would usually walk down Long View Avenue, then make a right turn onto Clover Lane, all the way to the end, and then hike through the woods. We would hike the forest path until we reached the old canal path. We’d make a left turn and head west. Elmo, John and Ziggy were the three other scouts in the Beaver Patrol. I can picture their faces, as if it was just yesterday. But I confess I’ve forgotten their last names. They were good scouts and great pals. As we walked along the old canal path, Tom would point out edible plants to us. He would also show us which plants were toxic and which ones were just plain poisonous. Tom would also stop, from time to time, and point out the specific species of the trees along the forest line. Tom was one of the most knowledgeable scouts on the subject of botany, in all of Troop 170. We would often eat our lunch, sitting upon the rock foundation of the old Mabey Icehouse. It allowed us all to sit squarely, to face one another, while Tom taught us scouting skills and principles. I remember one morning, in mid-October, when the leaves were just be ginning to turn from green to lemon yellow, burnt orange and rusty red, Tom pointed out to us, high above, perched on a limb of a tall maple tree, a Bald Eagle. It was a breath-taking scene. The wonderful Bald Eagle held its head high, all so proudly and majestically. To this day, I regretted that I didn’t have my little box camera with me. We all became quiet, astounded by the beauty and richness of this mag

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