Obits, Iran Poll, Lance Wang, Recipe, Comics, Puzzle, Through the Decades, More!

Our Sunday Paper Edition!

Jun 22, 2025

Happy Sunday. Finally, a weekend without much rain!

Not to be a downer — and we usually avoid national stuff — but let’s start with a quick poll just to get your blood flowing.

How did you feel about the news that the US bombed Iranian nuclear sites yesterday?

OK, back to our Sunday Paper fun. Here’s a Scrabble anagram. Let’s put a time limit of three minutes on it. Get a 7-letter word, win 10 points; 6 letters, 6 points; 5 letters, 5 points — you get the idea. Answer at the end.

A Note About the HVCC Honor Roll

If you read our newsletter yesterday via email, we apologize for omitting local HVCC President’s List students from the Honor Roll. We just posted the Dean’s List, not realizing the college had sent out a President’s List separately. You can find the full honor list here.

And Now Let’s Hear It for Lance Wang’s popular “On the Square” column…

America Under Fire

By Lance Allen Wang
Journal & Press

This past weekend, I met with friends from my Jewish War Veterans of the US post. It was a social visit primarily, just a chance to get together for lunch and catch up. A couple had brought their wives. After lunch we sat for a couple of minutes, and then the conversation started. It bitterly turned to the murder of a young Jewish couple in Washington DC earlier in the week. And then it turned to the hostages, both alive and dead, still being held in dark Gaza tunnels by Hamas.

At one point, I pointed out – “Do you realize that we’ve been talking about Gaza for five minutes, and no one has mentioned the word Hamas?” It is an extremely important distinction. I try to never conflate the term “Hamas” with “Palestinian.” But among anti-Israel protesters, Hamas, October 7th, and the hostages are only acknowledged reluctantly and under pressure.

So often, when I talk about those who engage in anti-Semitic behavior, I talk about the right-wing. You know, the “Unite the Right” tiki-torch Nazi types. The ones that deal in antisemitic tropes about money and power. The kind that lead a presidential candidate to say, “If I don’t win this election - and the Jewish people would really have a lot to do with that if that happens...” Really? Jews make up 2.4% of the United States population.

Sadly, some from the extreme left-wing side of the dial take rampant disinformation about the Israel-Hamas war out there seriously, leading an impressionable lunatic to assassinate a young couple outside a Jewish museum in Washington. Among the self-radicalized, semantic gymnastics to make the distinction between “Jew” and “Zionist” fall upon deaf ears. Rather, they see it quite sensible to attack a public vigil for Gaza hostages with an improvised flame weapon, injuring, among others, a Holocaust survivor in her 80s.

Words mean something. Even within the Jewish community there are questions about the meaning of Zionism in 2025. There are also many different types of Zionists, just as there are different types of libertarians and different types of socialists. To talk about them as if they are homogenous is simply not accurate. Zionism in its largest sense is belief in the idea of a Jewish homeland. Discussions on the topic start at that point.

Among my veteran comrades, the discussion turned to the treatment of Israel by the world community following its response to the October 7th attacks. When someone pointed out that a lot of Palestinian civilians have been killed since then, my friend replied, “We killed a lot of civilians in Iraq, too.” I nodded. It was true. “As we did in Berlin, Hamburg, Dresden, Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki,” I added.

In Gaza, Hamas still operates like an insurgent force, even though it is not. In many ways, they have operated much like Hezbollah did in Lebanon – a proxy guerilla army for Iran, which like Hamas, has sworn to Israel’s destruction. Like a guerrilla army, Hamas’ fighters still move among the population and use those people for cover and concealment. This may be one reason that Hamas will not distinguish between military and civilian casualties. Also, like a guerilla army, they see terrorism and hostage-taking as perfectly acceptable instruments of policy as demonstrated on October 7, 2023. The primary difference between Hezbollah and Hamas? Hamas has quasi-statehood in Gaza – they are the reigning civil authority.

Sadly, one bit of news which never seems to gain more than momentary traction is the courageous stand of some Palestinians against Hamas. While it has been reported in several world news outlets, it has been downplayed by pro-Palestinian activists here. I would not be surprised to find that some of these protesters have already been imprisoned or killed. As information out of Gaza is tightly controlled by Hamas, I would expect that there will be little follow-up to determine if my suspicion is true. Common ground for those truly seeking peace would revolve around a post-Hamas future.

Challenges Ahead

The recusal of the United States from the peace process since 2016 has been a major blow to prospects for de-escalation. The recent bizarre suggestion to turn Gaza into some sort of Mediterranean resort by the American president was not only ham-fisted and tone deaf, it also contributed nothing tangible to the resolution of the issue. This is not President Carter in 1977 negotiating peace between Israel and Egypt. It is not President Clinton bringing Yitzhak Rabin and Yasser Arafat to the table in 1994.

Without a credible leader of the free world, and no world leader willing to realistically and credibly engage with the situation, I can see no end. Yes, there’s fantastical thinking about a big casino on the beach, but I don’t see much discussion on how to deal with the complexities and historical baggage that have led to a cycle of violence. That cycle only further empowers the far-right in Israel’s government, one which seems to have no interest in de-escalation.

The American Front

There is an American front in the Israel-Hamas War. There’s always an American front. It’s part of the information age, and it has only accelerated in the digital age. Mass information technology’s flip side is mass disinformation. The goal is to erode support, political, economic, and materiel, for Israel. It’s a logical decision on Hamas’ part. We’ve seen it before.

On a strategic level, we failed in Vietnam. Besides many of our foolhardy policy decisions which led to the war’s inevitable ending, the North Vietnamese were also able to win the information war. Did they see America’s free press as an exploitable opportunity? Absolutely. And because North Vietnam was a closed information society, any attempts of ours to counter their propaganda were small-scale and generally unsuccessful. It is important to note, however, that Gaza is not quite Israel’s Vietnam. This is not a simplistic “domino theory” on the other side of the world – this is Hamas, sworn to Israel’s destruction since 1988, quite literally in Israel’s own backyard.

Hamas will distance itself completely from the terrorist attacks in Colorado, and the murders in Washington DC. It is counter to Hamas’ attempts to show legitimacy as a governing body. Of course, there is no legitimacy where Hamas is an international terrorist organization. Hamas knows full well that their propaganda will assist in the process of self-radicalization among the violent and unstable and lead to the inevitable and tragic results we have seen.

For those who claim that anti-Israel sentiment is not anti-Semitic – nice thought. I agree there are some fine lines, but understand nuance means precious little when you are a Jewish-American being set aflame for the actions of a sovereign state on the other side of the world.

The more common effect of Hamas’ information efforts in the United States is to redefine the terms of the discussion about the Israel-Hamas War. Which means to turn the discussion away from Hamas. To turn the discussion away from October 7th and the hostages Hamas has taken and still hold today. To turn the discussion away from Hamas’ use of their own civilian population as human shields. To turn the discussion away from discontent among Gazans who realize that Hamas has brought them nothing but violence and tragedy since the Gaza civil war in 2007, after which Hamas ejected the opposition and cancelled all further elections. This is not to deny the utter human tragedy for Palestinian civilians, who seem to constantly back the wrong leaders, as much out of desperation as anything else.

Among the fringe right and religious revisionists, the idea of a “sin of empathy” gained purchase earlier this year after Washington DC’s bishop pleaded with the President on behalf of society’s marginalized. I am not comfortable turning my back on the human tragedy taking place among Gaza’s civilians.

But I also can’t participate in the discussion without the acknowledgement of truths which would just as soon not be spoken by protesters – primarily Hamas’ role in getting the situation to this point. Accepting this simple truth is admission that the dynamics are far more complex than simple tabloid headlines and picket signs would reveal.

Lance Allen Wang is an Iraq Veteran and retired Army Infantry officer who lives in Eagle Bridge, NY, with his wife Hatti.

The Roving Photographer

It appears the landlord of the former Big Lots box store in Greenwich really wants a new tenant.

What would you like to see here? Post your thought below or join our animated discussion on our Facebook page.

An ad from our paper from 100 years ago.

Through the Decades

100 Years Ago
June 24, 1925

The philanthropic committee of the Greenwich Women’s Club is planning to bring a group of children sent out by The New York Tribune Fresh Air Fund to Greenwich again this year. Last year, forty-eight Fresh Air children were entertained here through the efforts of the club, and it is expected that provision can be made for a much larger number this season.

The vacation for each child is not less than two weeks and Tuesday August 4, is the date set for their arrival in Greenwich. The Schuylerville Group will probably be sent out on the same day so that one volunteer escort provided by The Tribune Fund can care for both parties.

Matthew McConaughey Sets 'True Detective' Reunion With Nic Pizzolatto on 'Mike Hammer' Movie, Based on Book Series

By Katcy Stephan
Variety
Special to Journal & Press

Matthew McConaughey and Nic Pizzolatto are teaming up for another epic detective story. McConaughey is in talks to star in a feature film from Skydance based on the iconic private investigator character Mike Hammer, with a script by Pizzolatto.

It's a "True Detective" reunion for the duo -- McConaughey starred in the first season of Pizzolatto's HBO crime series alongside Woody Harrelson in 2014.

Skydance acquired the rights to Mickey Spillane's and Max Allan Collins' "Mike Hammer" franchise with plans to develop and produce the bestselling book series into a feature film. Skydance's David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger will produce along with Entertainment 360's Guymon Casady. Benjamin Forkner and Ken F. Levin also produce. Collins will executive produce with Jane Spillane serving as co-producer. Carin Sage will oversee the project for Skydance.

McConaughey recently returned to the screen after a six-year hiatus with "The Rivals of Amziah King," and will next star alongside America Ferrera in the Apple TV+ disaster thriller "The Lost Bus." "I needed to write my own story, direct my own story on the page," McConaughey told Variety earlier this year of his time away from the camera.

Pizzolatto is an award-winning novelist, screenwriter, producer and director most known for creating and showrunning the first three seasons of HBO's "True Detective." His books are translated in over 30 languages, and he is a multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominee, with two Writer's Guild Awards. Recent work includes his first film as writer-director, "Easy's Waltz", multiple projects for Skydance and a television show in development with Netflix.

Obituaries

Sylvia May Ducharme, 94

With deep sadness, the family of Cossayuna’s Sylvia May Ducharme announces her passing at the age of 94 on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. A devoted mother, wife, grandmother, and friend, Sylvia’s kindness and compassion touched everyone who knew her.

Born on October 27, 1930, in Cambridge, NY, she was the daughter of Florence and Leland Dillon. After graduating from Salem High School, she enlisted in the U.S. Army, proudly serving as a WAC and key punch operator.

Following her service, Sylvia worked as a seamstress, where she met her husband, Arthur Ducharme. They were married in 1952 and shared 58 loving years together.

Sylvia cherished her role as a mother to her three children, Sally, Brian, and Betsy. A talented homemaker, she found joy in baking, gardening, and caring for her family. Her love of flowers and nature lives on through her children.

An avid fan of singer Anne Murray, Sylvia led her fan club for several years. Through this role, she met her dear friend Scotty Peney, whose family became like her own. In 1977, Sylvia and Scotty opened Snowbird Arts and Crafts, named after the Anne Murray song. The store became a beloved spot for local artists for over 20 years.

Sylvia’s life was filled with family, creativity, and deep friendships. Her grandchildren, Christopher and Anna, will always treasure memories of holidays and time spent at Gramma’s house.

In accordance with her wishes, Sylivia will be interred at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, NY with her husband Arthur.

A memorial service will be held at the cemetery on Monday, June 30th at 1:30 p.m. with a reception to follow at the Lake Lauderdale pavilion, Route 22, Jackson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Comfort Food Community, www.comfortfoodcommunity.org/donate orSave the Children, www.savethechildren.org as she regularly donated to organizations that supported children in need.

To express your sympathy or share a memory of Sylvia, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com. The McClellan-Gariepy Funeral Home, Inc. in Salem is assisting the family with arrangements.

Alan George Henderson, 76

Alan George Henderson, affectionately known as “Mister,” 76, passed away suddenly on Father’s Day, June 15, 2025, at his home. He was born on November 22, 1948, in Saratoga Springs, NY, to the late Taylor Sterling and Elsie Ruth (Coffin) Henderson.

Alan, a lifelong resident of Easton, was an embodiment of joy, love, and dedication. He was born to be a Farmer; he cultivated respect and reverence for agriculture. He was the proud owner and operator of Against the Grain Farm, a task he managed with his beloved daughter, Ali, and received unwavering help from his knowledgeable son, Brady. An International Harvester man, Alan’s meticulous care of his machinery was a testament to his commitment to his craft. His achievements in farming were proof of his hard work but also demonstrated his deep love for the land and the people he served. Additionally, he participated in decades of tractor pulls at the Washington County and Schaghticoke Fairs.

Alan loved music, especially rock ‘n’ roll, and had a special fondness for “The Warning” - so much so that he took a day off from the farm to see the band in Boston last Fall with his devoted daughter Chelsie. He was known to literally “whistle while he worked” and enjoyed pointing out exceptional musical elements - from unique bass lines to fantastic singing - in his favorite songs. He was typically found on the dance floor at concerts and parties doing his signature Mister dance moves. Alan also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: reading the newspaper and doing crossword puzzles, walking in the woods, cross-country skiing, picking blueberries at Winney’s and watching western and farm TV shows.

Alan’s guiding light was his unwavering dedication to his family and friends. The ripple of lives he positively affected is vast.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joni (Lamb) Henderson, together for nearly 50 years; his children Brady, Ali, and Chelsie; grandchildren Jobe Alan Henderson Jennings, Isaac, Abby, Owen, Sadie, Alex and Jade; brother Taylor Henderson and family; nephew and niece Rob and Simmons Henderson; great-nephews Spencer Conlin and Dillon Henderson; farming sidekick Marcus Henderson; mother-in-law Joan Fleming; Joni’s siblings Luewona Scalard, Diane DiSarno, Pete Brophy, Susan Nolan, and Tim Brophy and families. He is also survived by many other relatives and cherished friends, especially Eddy and Joan Lamb, Emmy Briggs, Robbin and Tony Anuszewski, Eric and Patti Pearson, Theresa and Rob Seabury, Sandy Borden, the Beck family, Gwen Dixson, Vicki Meek, John and Charlie Dixson, Maureen and Andy Whitaker, Judi and Paul Lundberg, Nancy and Gary Spezio, Claire and Jim Houston, Elizabeth and Barton Cockey, MaryEllen Macher and Jodie Johnson, Scott Phillips, Wayne White, and Jessica Bunting.

His steadfastly kind demeanor and his vibrantly youthful smile touched the hearts of many. He will forever be remembered for the warmth and humor he brought into others’ lives; he loved to laugh and make others laugh. Joni lovingly describes him as “her heart and her hero”.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Bob Henderson; sister-in-law Dael Henderson; brother-in-law Randi J. Lamb; and lifelong friend Allan Briggs.

A celebration of Mister’s life will be held at Greenwich Elks Lodge #2223, 130 Bulson Road, Greenwich, NY, 12834 on July 27th from 1-5 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Greenwich Future Farmers of America (FFA), c/o Greenwich Central School, 10 Gray Avenue, Greenwich NY 12834.

Please consider sharing your favorite memories of Alan on his memorial page at www.flynnbrosinc.com.

These photo-worthy noodle bowls are packed with flavor

By America's Test Kitchen
Special to Journal & Press

You'll find these nearly translucent noodles in recipes across much of Asia, from brothy pho in Vietnam to stir-fried chow fun in China to pad thai and pad see ew in Thailand (and many, many more recipes).

All about rice noodles

Rice noodles are traditionally made from just rice flour and water. The rice flour and water mixture might be pushed through a plate with small holes to form long, thin noodles. Or it can be spread into a thin layer, dried, and then sliced into flat noodles by a machine. Some of the most common rice noodles are the tiny, delicate rice vermicelli used in this recipe; straight, flat rice sticks; and wide, chewy chow fun noodles.

Cool as a cucumber

There are many varieties of cucumbers in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors. The most common cucumber you'll find at the grocery store is an American or garden cucumber, which has a thick green skin and lots of big seeds.

English cucumbers are long and slim, have thin skins and small seeds, and usually come wrapped in plastic. Persian cucumbers (the kind we call for in this recipe) are basically mini versions of English cucumbers and are great for snacking. Kirby cucumbers are small and squat and are great for making pickles.

Rice Noodle Bowls

Serves 4

2 Persian cucumbers
2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
8 ounces rice vermicelli noodles
5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
2 tablespoons plus 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, measured separately
12 ounces ground pork
2 scallions, sliced thin
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

1. Trim ends of cucumbers. Cut cucumbers in half lengthwise. Lay pieces flat side down and slice crosswise into half-moons about 1/4 inch thick.

2. In a medium bowl, use a wooden spoon to stir together sliced cucumbers and vinegar. Set aside.

3. Add 2 quarts of water to a large saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Turn off heat. Carefully add noodles to hot water. Use a wooden spoon to push noodles down until covered with water. Let noodles sit until tender, about 5 minutes.

4. While noodles soak, in a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and 2 tablespoons oil.

5. Drain and rinse noodles in colander under cold running water. Set noodles aside to drain.

6. In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat for 1 minute (oil should be hot but not smoking). Add pork and use a wooden spoon to break pork into small pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until pork is no longer pink and is beginning to brown, 6 to 8 minutes.

7. Measure out 2 tablespoons soy sauce mixture from large bowl and add to skillet with pork. Add scallions to skillet and stir to combine. Cook until scallions have softened, about 2 minutes. Turn off heat and slide skillet to a cool burner.

8. Add drained noodles to a large bowl with remaining soy sauce mixture. Use tongs to toss noodles until they are evenly coated with sauce. Use tongs to divide noodles among 4 serving bowls.

9. Top each bowl with pork, cucumbers, and cilantro (if using). Serve.