Autumn Years Spring 2024

H ere we are! Spring 2024!!! This issue officially marks the completion of 10 years of Autumn Years . I think it is fitting to recap the origins of Autumn Years especially for those who have discovered the magazine recently. It all began with a walk on a warm autumn day after I had helped my senior neighbor, John Kirincich, tidy up some clutter in his home. I noticed many magazines that were sent to him were unopened, sitting in a pile of newspapers and junk mail, ready to be recycled. I asked John why he hadn’t opened and read the magazines, and his response was “there is nothing of interest,” and he waved his hand as if to dismiss them. I got it. I understood what he meant. At times we get inundated with mail, whether we subscribe to it or not. And sometimes we do get something useful, like a coupon or an offer for a discounted service. John was from a time when being practical and frugal could enable one to live a financially comfortable life. When I thought about how many people of his generation were like him and didn’t read the local magazines because they didn’t find anything of interest or see value in them, I realized this was something to explore. The dismissive attitude my neighbor had to the local free magazines was the spark to create something special. I was ready to take a chance and give life to the idea of starting a magazine that was geared to the senior population in Bergen County. A periodical with a combination of human interest stories and informative content that speaks directly to the 55+ population needed to be pursued. With the efforts of experienced and talented writers and having an outstanding editor, Autumn Years launched its first edition, Sum mer 2014. Ellen Reinkraut donned our cover, exemplifying energy and inspiration with her artwork. And of course we included the story of John Kirincich, who had lived such an interesting philanthropic life and valued a good deal and a good education. Over the past 10 years, we have featured unique individuals, many of whom lived their lives in the shadow of recognition and achievement—the underdogs who went unnoticed, the unsung heroes who are simply our neighbors. We highlighted interesting facts about Bergen County and presented information that pertains to the overall well-being that would help us thrive in our senior years. We are proud to say we are a quality publication. So now you know our story. When you pick up Autumn Years , whether you subscribe to it or find it in Bergen County libraries, waiting rooms, senior centers, salons and spas, or you stumble across it online, we are confident you will enjoy it cover to cover. Our mission will continue to be a celebration of life. publisher’s letter

CELEBRATING LIFE OVER 55

READERS’ LETTERS

What was particularly amazing about your article in the Winter issue on Jack Teadore and the team

of students interested in robotics was how many students there are year after year who partici pate in the annual robot ics competition. What a great opportunity for them

Robots Reflect Students’ Hearts and Souls

By Emily Kratzer Jack Teadore and the Pi-oneers

The machine rumbles across the floor, its buzz ing parts turning and its lights flashing as it tackles a task. Students intently watch it while directing its movements with radio controllers. Dozens of stu dents known as Pi-oneers

poured their hearts and souls into building this new, competition-ready machine. Each year, the process starts the first Saturday in January.

The team when it won the 2017 world championship in St. Louis.

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AUTUMN YEARS I WINTER 2023/24

to gain skills and insights that will be invaluable in their future. Hats off to Jack and the other coaches. –Rob Purdmen It’s nice to read an article on AI that I can understand and doesn’t sound like something out of a science fiction movie. “Gardening and AI— Sprouting New Technologies” sounds like a great way to help those of us who lack a green thumb to successfully grow our own vegetables indoors. I’m going to try it. -Jean Millberg I always enjoy reading Roger Anthony’s Fit for Life column and this latest one is at the top of my list. Something as simple as taking a walk outside is so helpful to our well-being on so many fronts, and yet I have many acquaintances who once the tempera tures fall below 50 will not step out their front doors unless it’s to travel by car. I’ve made copies of “Take It Out side !” and have posted them on some of my community’s bulletin boards. -Patti Garand

On behalf of everyone involved with the production of Autumn Years we would like to thank you for your positive feedback and support. To our advertisers, we thank you, especially Valley Health, which has committed to back cover placement for the lifespan of Autumn Years . Here’s to 10 more years of Autumn Years !

Heidi Gross

SPRING 2024 I AUTUMN YEARS 1