Your History Your Story

In the early 19th century, Americans seeking to escape crowded coastal towns and cities, began to settle further inland, away from navigable waterways. Since passable roads were scarce at that time, it became necessary to develop a transportation system that would enable the movement of goods across inland routes.

The canal system was a man-made waterway, where boats and barges powered by mules would transport freight to various markets along a specific route. One of those canals, called the Morris Canal, stretched 102 miles across the rugged landscape of Northern New Jersey from Phillipsburg on the Delaware River to Newark & later to the New York Harbor at Jersey City.

Construction of the Morris Canal began in 1825 and first opened for business in 1831. The canal was used to carry large quantities of coal from eastern Pennsylvania and also iron, lumber, agricultural and home goods to the east coast cities and points in between. Bloomfield, in Essex County New Jersey was one the communities through which the Morris Canal passed. For many years that town experienced benefits including, commercial and population growth, until the railroads brought about the closure of the canal in the early 20th century.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Bloomfield Councilman, Rich Rockwell. Rich, who is a council liaison to both the Morris Canal Greenway Committee and the Historic Preservation Commission, is also a trustee of the Historical Society of Bloomfield and author of the book, “Bloomfield Through Time”. He will talk about the history of the Morris Canal, including its engineering features, its affect on day to day life and its ultimate abandonment in 1924 after nearly 100 years of operation.

Rich will also tell of the efforts made in his community and the state of New Jersey to preserve the rich history of the Morris Canal. Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man Photo(s): Courtesy of Rich Rockwell and YHYS Podcast To Support Your History Your Story: Please consider becoming a Patron or making a one time donation via PayPal. - THANK YOU!!! YHYS Social Links: CLICK HERE YHYS Join our mailing list!: CLICK HERE To purchase Rick Rockwell's book, "Bloomfield Through Time" https://a.co/d/hAojcB2 #yhys #history #podcast #storytelling #youhaveastorytoo

Back in 2004, a young UC Berkeley engineering student, William Hung quickly rose to stardom following his rejection from the widely popular television show, American Idol.  William, along with his mother and father, had immigrated to the United States from Hong Kong in 1993 when he was 10 years old. While adjusting to a new language and culture, he developed an early love for music by singing karaoke with his parents. Years later, after winning a talent contest at his college, he felt confident enough to try out for American Idol. His wildest dreams were realized when he made it through a few preliminary rounds and ended up auditioning in front of judges, Simon, Paula and Randy. Although William was rejected after that audition, he became very popular, released some albums and was sought after to appear on numerous talk, news and entertainment shows.  Now, almost twenty years since William’s first appearance on American Idol, he has become known more for his motivational speaking and his passion for helping others find their voice and maintain a positive attitude in the face of criticism. In this episode of Your History Your Story, we are honored to have William share his story with us. Photo(s) courtesy of: William Hung and Your History Your Story Podcast Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man YHYS Social Links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast YHYS Mailing List: https://mailchi.mp/8fcb73f13927/yhys-signup-for-mailing-list William Hung - Connect with William on IG & FB. His new website is under construction at this time. William's new podcast will be called Make Your Dreams Come True.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with author and college English professor, Gretchen Weiss Dubit.  Gretchen was a previous guest on our show (S2 Ep09) along with her brother Carl & sister Christina. Together, they told the story of their grandfather, Dr. Carl A. Weiss Sr., who was accused of being the assassin of controversial Louisiana Senator, Huey Long in 1935. During that interview, Gretchen and her siblings presented a case for their grandfather’s innocence and also shared how that horrific event changed their family tree by forcing their grandmother to leave Louisiana with her young son Carl A. Weiss Jr. to escape a hostile environment in their community. They also told, how years later, their dad, who had settled in New York, eventually began visiting his relatives in Louisiana…a tradition that continued as his own family grew. In today’s episode, Gretchen will talk about her new book, “Under the Oak Tree: Stories of a Southern Family”, a collection of stories and memories from her annual spring visits to see her father’s family in Opelousas, Louisiana. Gretchen, a native New Yorker who now lives in Colorado, will share memories of family reunions, outdoor play, crawfishing, horseback riding and more. She will tell of her special bond with her Great-Aunt Marie who was a wonderful storyteller, a lively and generous host and a living link to her Louisiana Cajun family’s interesting and accomplished history. Gretchen will also discuss the family secrets that were not shared by Aunt Marie or other family members because of the painful and disruptive consequences of the family’s involvement in a tragic incident that also affected American history.  Photo(s): Courtesy of Gretchen Weiss Dubit and YHYS Podcast Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man Your History Your Story Social Links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast Your History Your Story - Join our mailing list! Subscribe here! Book purchase: "Under the Oak Tree" please use this link, Amazon #yhys #podcast #njpodcast #storytelling #history #jamesgardner #youhaveastorytoo 

As we enter the 2022 Christmas season, many of us will be decorating our homes, purchasing gifts, listening to our favorite holiday music and settling our plans to visit and celebrate with friends and loved ones.

However, as we busy ourselves with many activities of the season, we should pause to remember Christmas’ from long ago and reflect upon how those memories and traditions from our childhood remain in our hearts and still bring us comfort and joy today. 

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with friends from around the world who will share their special childhood memories and Christmas traditions from their home countries. Our guests will be: Kattia Roman from Costa Rica, Baba Oluyemi from Nigeria, Marje Zayas from Estonia,    Dara Kelly from Ireland and WWII veteran, John “Lucky” Luckadoo, who grew up in Tennessee. Our host, James Gardner will also share a story about his favorite childhood Christmas.

We hope these stories will inspire you to reflect on your own Christmas memories and will bring warmth and happiness to you and your loved ones as you gather together to celebrate Christmas this year.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Kattia Roman, Bab Oluyemi, Marje Zayas, Dara Kelly, John Luckadoo & Your History Your Story.

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man & "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" Paul Werner

Time Stamps:

Kattia from Costa Rica - 1m.43s

Baba from Nigeria - 20m.26s

Marje from Estonia - 35m.58s

Dara from Ireland - 54m.22s

John "Lucky" from Tennessee, USA - 1h.18m

James Gardner from New Jersey, USA - 1h.33.50s

Your History Your Story - media links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast

*This is our 1st live video recorded in a studio!* In this episode of Your History Your Story, our guest is author, inspirational speaker and passionate animal advocate, Charlie Cifarelli. Charlie will talk about his recently released autobiography “14th & 2nd” and will share stories from his life journey, which brought him from the streets of New York City to the cornfields of Nebraska. Charlie, who experienced childhood abuse, periods of homelessness, battles with addiction and the revolving door of rehab, also experienced a spiritual awakening in an upstate New York monastery.  Charlie’s journey eventually took him to the mid west, where he become an officer with the Nebraska Department of Corrections. While in that role, he interacted with death row inmates in their final days. Also, while working with the DOC, Charlie used his entrepreneurial skills to found a successful business. However, most significantly, Charlie’s life was positively and permanently impacted when he embarked on a mission to rescue a dog named “Star”, who had been shot by an NYPD officer because Star was guarding her homeless owner who was in the midst of a seizure.  This is Charlie’s story. Photo(s): Courtesy of Charlie Cifarelli and YHYS Podcast Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man Your History Your Story Social Media Links and Website: https://linktr.ee/yhyspocast Book purchase "14th & 2nd" by Charlie Cifarelli - Please use our Amazon associate link: https://amzn.to/3eBgDCk Book purchase "I'm a Star" by Jenn Sanchez - Please use our Amazon associate link: https://amzn.to/3BIN68j www.charliecifarelli.com  #yhys #yourhistoryyourstory #history #youhaveastorytoo #njpodcast #podcast #14th&2nd #jamesgardner #charliecifarelli

What do you do when adversity strikes? Do you see obstacles that can’t be overcome or do you see opportunity and the possibility to transform yourself?

In this episode of Your History Your Story our guest is Robert Pardi. Robert is a transformational life coach, speaker and author of “Possibility in Action - A Journey to an Intentional Life”.

Robert grew up with an alcoholic father and was forced at a young age to develop coping techniques in order to deal with his difficult home life.                            In college, Robert met Desiree, his future wife.  They got married and  looked forward to an exciting life together.  Little did they know that just prior to Desiree’s thirty first birthday, while she was studying to become a doctor, she would be diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. Robert walked hand in hand with her throughout her journey and their love for each other continued to grow. They had an action plan that compelled them to make the most out of every day they had together. Sadly, despite her strong will to live and immeasurable courage, Desiree lost her battle with cancer and Robert was devastated. 

Trying to find his way again, he leaned into some of the coping skills he developed as a child and the experiences he had during his wife’s illness to transform his life. He eventually moved from New York to Italy where he has become an amazing life coach, using his passion and compassion to help others live their best life. Robert has a special way of connecting with those he encounters.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Robert Pardi

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Your History Your Story - Social Links and Website: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast

To purchase "Possibility in Action: A Journey to an Intentional Life", please use our Amazon associate link: https://amzn.to/3fVaxgV

Robert Pardi website: www.robertpardi.com 

#YHYS #Podcast #history #storytelling #youhaveastorytoo

As many may know, the United States of America will be celebrating its 250th birthday on July 4, 2026. With that important date on the horizon, some will pause to think about the American Revolution and the great sacrifices made to gain our independence from Great Britain.

New Jersey, one of the original thirteen colonies, played a critical role during the Revolutionary War as many battles were fought there and George Washington spent more time there, than anywhere else.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with author and website creator, Al Frazza. Al is a lifelong resident of New Jersey whose passion for history prompted him to take a seven and a half year journey to research, photograph and document nearly 650 historic Revolutionary War sites throughout his state. 

Al then used his research to create a comprehensive website called (RevolutionaryWarNewJersey.com), which provides historians, teachers and history buffs with a treasure trove of information.

Al, who authored the book, “State of Revolution, My Seven-and-a-Half-Year Journey Through Revolutionary War New Jersey”, will share his experiences of traveling to all of New Jersey’s twenty one counties to complete the research for his amazing website.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Al Frazza

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Your History Your Story Social Links & website: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast

To purchase "State of Revolution" book, please use our Amazon associate link: https://amzn.to/3FwNraN

Al Frazza website: www.RevolutionaryWarNewJersey.com 

As children, brothers Robert and Vincent Gardino began to take an interest in historical people when their dad started bringing home autographs of famous patrons at the New York City restaurant where he worked as a waiter.

The two boys then took it upon themselves to expand their collection of autographs by using resources at the public library to obtain addresses of other notable people such as politicians, celebrities and sports figures. They wrote to these people and to their surprise, many responded and their collection grew.

This early interest in collecting autographs prompted the Gardino brothers as adults to connect with historical figures by searching for their final resting places, so they could pay their respects and connect with history.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Robert and Vincent Gardino about their recently released book, “Grave Trippers, History at our Feet” which documents the stories of noted historical personalities, along with some fun facts and specific directions to their final resting places so that others can be “grave trippers” too! 

Photo(s): Courtesy of Robert and Vincent Gardino

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Your History Your Story Social Links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast 

To purchase Grave Trippers, History at our Feet, please use our Amazon Associate link: https://amzn.to/3QMKrd9

Grave Tripper's website: www.gravetrippers.com

Halloween is almost here! It is time to put on our sweatshirts, admire the multi-colored leaves falling from the trees and spy the array of skeletons, orange lights and Jack-o-lanterns adorning our neighborhoods. It’s also the best time of year to settle in on a chilly evening with a glass of hot cider and a bowl of popcorn to watch a scary movie starring the classic horror movie icon, Vincent Price.

Vincent, who died in 1993 at the age of 82, was well known for his roles in horror films, yet his brilliant and successful six decade career also included classic movies of other genres and roles on stage, television and radio. Vincent was also known for doing voice over work which included Michael Jackson’s hit, Thriller. 

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Vincent’s grandson, Jody Price. Jody will share stories about his grandfather’s life, acting career, his passion for art, art history and cooking. He will also share that in contrast to the many villainous characters his grandfather portrayed, he was a kind and compassionate man with a generous spirit.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Jody Price

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Your History Your Story Social Media & Website: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast

YHYS Amazon Associate link to purchase the Vincent Price Collection (movies): https://amzn.to/3F3FM3M 

Jody Price music: nmbliss.bandcamp.com 

Jody Price email: nmprice1347@yahoo.com 

October 29, 2022 marks the 10th anniversary of the day Superstorm Sandy came ashore in New Jersey. This epic storm, which was the greatest natural disaster in the history of the Jersey Shore brought with it high winds, heavy rain and a tidal surge causing loss of life, power outages and widespread destruction of property. One of the hardest hit areas along the coast was Long Beach Island in Ocean County.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Scott Mazzella, author of the national award winning book, “Surviving Sandy: Long Beach Island and the Greatest Storm of the Jersey Shore”. 

Scott, a New Jersey resident, educator, former reporter and passionate weather buff will tell us  about Superstorm Sandy from its’ early formation to its’ devastating landfall. He will also be sharing  stories about Long Beach Islanders who survived the storm and worked tirelessly together with volunteers from around the country, to rebuild and restore the Jersey Shore.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Scott Mazzella, YHYS Podcast and Carl Clark, Leslee Ganss - Down the Shore Publishing

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Your History Your Story social media links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast 

To purchase your copy of Surviving Sandy, please use our Amazon affiliate link: = https://amzn.to/3fo52GS 

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Enrique “Ric” Prado, author of New York Times bestselling book “Black Ops, The Life of a Shadow Warrior”.

Ric, who was born to a middle class family in Cuba, was ten years old when his family sent him alone to the United States to save him from the abuses of Fidel Castro’s Marxist regime. Ric’s parents, whose property and business had been confiscated by that regime, would not be able to join their son in the US for eights long months, during which time Ric lived in a Colorado orphanage. Once reunited with his parents, he and his family quickly embraced the US as their new home, settling in Florida.

Ric will be sharing many exciting stories about his life and twenty four year career with the CIA (Central Intelligence Agency), where he operated in the shadows at various locations in the world during the Cold War Era and the Age of Terrorism. Ric eventually achieved the rank of CIA Counterterrorist Chief of Operations, the CIA equivalent of a two star general. This is Ric’s story of incredible dedication, patriotism and courage.

Photo(s) Courtesy of Ric Prado and YHYS Podcast

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Your History Your Story links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast 

Black Ops book on Amazon (our affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3CrXPPF 

Time Stamps

2:20 Ric's early years in Cuba, parent's coffee roasting business

6:00 Castro's regime moves in and family moves to Havana

11:20 Ric leaves Cuba with the Peter Pan program at age 10, memories of leaving parents at airport, Orphanage in Pueblo, CO, Reunited with parents after eight months.

19:00 Family settles in Florida, moving forward in the US, Ric's education and becoming citizens of the US.

23:45 High School days and getting in the "wrong crowd", hippie story & the American Flag

31:30 Paramedic / EMT / Fire and Rescue training, Applying to the CIA.

38:30 What does Black Ops mean?, Keeping his cover and assignments all over the world, Spy school.

47:00 Scary moments & staying alert, being aware of your surroundings.

51:00 Shift from communism to terrorism, Bin Laden task force, 9/11 and witnessing the planes hitting the WTC towers.

1h 7m End of Ric's career with the CIA, retirement and reflection. Why Ric wrote Black Ops, 139 stars on wall of fallen CIA agents.

In the summer of 1960, nineteen year old Sandy Greenberg, the son of a Buffalo, NY junk dealer, was home on break between his sophomore and junior years at Columbia University. Sandy, who loved sports, also loved learning and was very excited about his future and the possibilities that lay ahead. However, while pitching in a baseball game that summer, Sandy’s vision suddenly became cloudy, requiring him to leave the game after almost hitting a batter. Sandy did not know it then, but eye disease and a misdiagnosis would soon lead to complete blindness.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with author, entrepreneur, investor and inventor, Sandy Greenberg. Sandy will talk about his book, “Hello Darkness, My Old Friend”, which tells his story of how he went from despair to a life of hope, love and gratitude. Sandy will share stories about special people in his life who helped him and believed in him, especially his wife Sue and his college roommate and dear friend, Art Garfunkel, who he affectionately calls “Arthur”.

Sandy and his wife, Sue are founders of End Blindness, “a prize created to advance ground breaking, scientific and medical research to end blindness permanently and for everyone”.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Sandy Greenberg

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

YHYS Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast 

To purchase, "Hello Darkness, My Old Friend" please use our Amazon Associate link here: https://amzn.to/3eZ4C9Y 

It may come as a shock to many, that for every 106 people in New York City, 1 is homeless. Thankfully, The Bowery Mission which has been in existence since the 1870’s  continues to serve the hungry and homeless in New York, providing critical services to meet their needs and help transform their lives.

In the year, 2021, in the midst of the Covid 19 pandemic, The Bowery Mission provided 255,000 meals, 54,000 nights of shelter, 30,000 emergency showers and 20,000 articles of clothing to New Yorkers experiencing homelessness, hunger and other crises.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with James Winans, President and CEO of The Bowery Mission. James will tell the powerful story of The Bowery Mission and the work it has been doing for over 150 years to remain a place where help and hope is delivered and trust is built.

Photo(s): Courtesy of The Bowery Mission and Your History Your Story Podcast

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

YHYS Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast

The Bowery Mission website: https://www.bowery.org 

The Bowery - Time Stamps

2:45 Stats on homelessness in NYC, Mission of The Bowery Mission, Red Doors @ 227 Bowery

8:30 Graduates of the Bowery programs / alumni gatherings

11:30 Life on the streets vs feeling safe at The Bowery Mission, reasons for homelessness

16:00 Helping w/ resumes, interviewing skills, spiritual focus. Chapel operating since 1909

17:45 James Winans story and Bowery Mission supporters

23:00 The pandemic begins, Bowery Mission stays open feeding 2x's the amount of people than usual.

34:15 History of The Bowery Mission, persevering through the years, Locations of The Bowery Mission sites and Mont Lawn Camp for kids

45:40 Biggest challenges today for The Bowery Mission and partnering with The Bowery Mission

48:30 Reported asks guest about the Corona Virus story  

How can YOU brighten someone else’s day? It may be a thoughtful gesture, a kind word or simply sharing a smile. 

Our guest on this episode of Your History Your Story is Michael Ray, founder of Smile Project Louisville, an organization created to affect attitude and behaviors through smiling and small random acts of kindness. 

Over the years Michael’s life had been affected by some tragic and difficult times such as the death of a child, job insecurity, divorce and the challenges of parenting a special needs daughter. One day in 2018 while Michael was feeling particularly down about the possibility of losing his job, he went to a Wendy’s drive through to get some lunch. While giving his order, he encountered an employee whose smile and kind demeanor lifted his spirits greatly. That moment, coupled with the joy he had always felt from the smiles of his precious, non-verbal daughter, changed the course of Michael’s life. 

Since its’ founding, Smile Project Louisville has gained momentum. Today, you can find pictures and videos of Michael’s acts of kindness toward total strangers on social media. He has followers from all over the world and has also ventured into public speaking with the hope of touching more and more lives with smiles and love.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Michael Ray

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

https://linktr.ee/yhyspodcast 

yhyspodcast@gmail.com 

smileprojectlouisville@gmail.com 

http://smileprojectlouisville.com 

It was the mid 1950’s in County Offaly, Ireland when seventeen year old Margaret (Peg) Holland discovered she was carrying a child and was already seven months along!  Learning of their daughter’s pregnancy, Peg’s parents brought her to an unwed mother’s home called Sean Ross Abbey in County Tipperary. It was there, after a difficult breach delivery, that Peg gave birth to a baby girl and she called her Mary. Peg’s parents arrived three days after Mary’s birth to bring Peg and her baby home. Sadly, despite the love received from her family, Peg was the target of unrelenting judgement and cruel comments from people in her community. In order to give Mary the best possible future, Peg made the heartbreaking decision to place her daughter up for adoption and Mary was eventually adopted by a loving family from the United Sates and grew up in Illinois.  Sometime after parting with her daughter, Peg decided that there was nothing left for her at home in Ireland, as it only reminded her of recent heartache and tears.  Therefore, Peg left Ireland and moved to the New York area and started working as a nanny. As the years passed, Peg married Mick O’Hagen and had four more children. Meanwhile, Mary grew up in a happy household, married Tom Boler and had a family of her own. Upon the death of her adoptive mother, Mary began to search for her birth mother.  One day in September 2008, Peg received a phone call that would change her life and the lives of her family… In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Tom Gorman, who, along with his late mother in law, Peg O’Hagen, co-authored the book titled “I Called Her Mary”, which tells a story of love, adoption and the reuniting of a mother and daughter. We will also be joined by Mary herself, who will tell  how her journey to find her birth mother resulted in the joy of an extended and loving family.  Photo(s): Courtesy of Tom Gorman Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man www.yourhistoryyourstory.com  www.icalledhermary.com  https://www.amazon.com/I-Called-Her-Mary-Memoir/dp/0578981939/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3ICQSBMBLNFL5&keywords=i+called+her+mary&qid=1659114483&s=books&sprefix=i+called%2Cstripbooks%2C98&sr=1-1 

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Colonel Dan Hampton. Dan, who completed 151 combat missions as a fighter pilot in the Iraq War, Kosovo Conflict, and first Gulf War, is also a New York Times bestselling author. 

Dan will be discussing his most recent book, “Valor: The Astonishing World War II Saga of One Man’s Defiance and Indomitable Spirit”, that tells the amazing story of U.S. Marine Lt. William “Bill” Harris.

Harris was captured by Japanese forces in May, 1942 during the Battle of Corregidor (Philippines) but soon escaped, only to endure hardships including an eight hour swim in a shark infested bay, shipwrecks, guerilla fighting, re-capture and two years imprisonment in a Japanese POW camp, where he suffered beatings, torture and starvation. Bill Harris was a true American hero and this is his story.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Dan Hampton & St. Martins Publishing

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

www.yourhistoryyourstory.com

FB: https://facebook.com/yhyspodcast 

FB Page for Dan Hampton: Dan Hampton Author 

On December 7, 1941, nineteen year old college freshman, John Luckadoo was chauffeuring around a group of local kids in a Buick he had borrowed from a neighbor in his hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee. John was not able to use his father’s car, because his father didn’t yet trust him behind the wheel! Suddenly, while listening to the car radio, a newsman interrupted the program to announce that the Japanese had bombed Pearl Harbor. John was well aware that a war had been raging in Europe for over two years, however, even though he had never heard of Pearl Harbor, he knew that the United States was about to enter the war and his life was about to change significantly. Less than two years later, John would be piloting B-17 Bombers over enemy occupied Europe. Between June and October of 1943, John, who would earn the nickname “Lucky”, would fly 25 missions as part of the 8th Air Force’s 100th Bomb Group, known as “The Bloody Hundreth”, due to the heavy losses it sustained. In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with 100 year old John “Lucky” Luckadoo along with award winning journalist and NY Times bestselling author, Kevin Maurer.   Kevin’s latest book, “Damn Lucky, One Man’s Courage During the Bloodiest Military Campaign in Aviation History” tells the story of John Luckadoo. Lucky will share his thoughts and experiences from his life and combat service. He and Kevin will also talk about the strong friendship they developed while Kevin researched and wrote the book, “Damn Lucky”. Photo(s): Courtesy of St. Martin's Press / Kevin Maurer / John Luckadoo Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man Website: www.yourhistoryyourstory.com  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YourHistoryYourStory.JamesGardner  Kevin Maurer: www.kevinmaurer.net  John Luckadoo www.100thbg.com  and www.homefrontheroesday.com  Show Notes: 5min - Lucky & Kevin get to know each other; COVID & phone calls to collaborate; reliving war experiences; finally meeting in person 16min - Storytelling, the most precious resource; Dallas/Washington; "Damn Lucky" book; Best friend, Sully; Pearl Harbor attacked 25min - Army Air Corp, 100th Bomb Group, assimilating with crew; B17 Bomber; the "4 F's" enemies - Frostbite, Fear, Flack & Freezing 40min - K. Maurer's writing style, mission over Bremen, harrowing experience; Element leader, 95th BG, New Operations Officer 49min - Lucky's last mission; Kevin Maurer's thoughts, James' personal connection to London, Losing Sully, Going Home 1hr 01min - Lucky meeting his wife, Barbara (Bobby), married for 71 years; Home Front Heroes Day Foundation

It was a hot July day in 1916 and eleven year old Lester Stillwell, along with a group of other boys, decided to go down to the Matawan Creek to swim, splash around and cool off.  Some people in the small NJ shore town of Matawan had already heard of two recent fatal shark attacks on ocean bathers in Beach Haven & Spring Lake, but no one worried about a shark in the Matawan Creek, as it was one and a half miles inland from the Raritan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.  However, much to the horror of his friends, young Lester was attacked by a shark in the creek. The boys immediately ran into town to get help. Help came in the form of Stanley Fisher, a twenty four year old athletic and popular, local businessman who was always looking out for others. Stanley Fisher and two other men raced to the creek in an effort to save Lester. When he realized that Lester could no longer be alive, Stanley dove repeatedly into the murky water to retrieve Lester’s body for his family. Just as he found Lester’s body and was bringing it to the surface, he too was brutally attacked by the shark.  Tragically, Lester & Stanley became the third and fourth victims of fatal shark attacks at the Jersey shore in less than two weeks. Not far from where Lester and Stanley were attacked, a young boy named Joseph Dunn had his leg severely bitten by the shark, however, he would survive his injuries. In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Al Savolaine, Matawan town historian and author of “Stanley Fisher: Shark Attack Hero of a Bygone Age”. Al will tell the story of Stanley Fisher and how he and other brave men faced a killer shark in a small NJ community in the summer of 1916.  In addition to Al Savolaine, we will be speaking with Justin Pratt, the founder of the Facebook page “1916 New Jersey Shark Attacks”. Justin, who lives in Tennessee, is one of many enthusiasts from around the world, who have taken a keen interest in these events. Justin, like many others, can trace his enthusiasm back to the 1975 blockbuster movie “Jaws”, in which the New Jersey shark attacks were mentioned.  We hope you enjoy this thrilling tale from a bygone age… Photo(s): Courtesy of Al Savolaine, Justin Pratt Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man www.yourhistoryyourstory.com  https://www.youtube.com/c/YourHistoryYourStoryJamesGardner  FB: Your History Your Story   FB page run by Justin Pratt is "1916 New Jersey Shark Attacks"

When George Washington became the first President of the United States in 1789, his wife Martha, like her husband, had no predecessor to model for her new role. Initially, she did not have a title, but soon became known as “Lady Washington”.

It wasn’t until many years later that the term “First Lady” was used on a regular basis to identify the wife of the President and / or the White House hostess.

Over the past 233 years the First Ladies of the United States have performed many duties to support the President and his administration. In additional to upholding many traditions set by previous First Ladies, they had to adapt their roles to fit the times and circumstances of their stay in the White House. 

Some of our nation’s First Ladies have also been members of The Daughters of the American Revolution, commonly known as the DAR. The DAR was formed in 1890 and is a women’s organization made up of direct descendants of patriots of the American Revolution. 

Since its’ founding, the DAR has continued to initiate and support projects that include promoting patriotism, education, historic preservation and conservation.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, our guest is historian Larry Cook, author of “Symbols of Patriotism, First Ladies and Daughters of the American Revolution”, a book that tells the stories of twelve First Ladies who were and are, also members of the DAR. 

In addition to being an author, speaker and historian, Larry is a serious collector of Presidential memorabilia, with a collection that includes over 8,000 fascinating items.

www.larrycookhistorian.com

www.yourhistoryyourstory.com

YHYS YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC30F4NTjvr6WSj7OeUZclkw

Photo(s): Courtesy of Larry Cook

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

On June 29, 1933, at the Garden Bowl in Long Island City, New York, an imposing six foot six Italian boxer named Primo Carnera knocked out a smaller but highly skilled and more experienced Jack Sharkey to become the World Heavyweight Boxing Champion. 

Primo was born in 1906 in a small village in the northeastern corner of Italy. A large baby at birth, Primo continued to grow at  an alarming rate and by the time he was a teenager, towered over his family and all the other residents of his village!  Eventually, he was asked to leave his home because his parents could no longer afford to provide the food necessary to satisfy his ravenous appetite.

After setting out on his own, Primo worked odd jobs and after a while found work as a circus strong man in France, where he was able to earn a living, eat well and grow even bigger and stronger.

While performing as a circus strong man, twenty two year-old Primo was discovered by a boxing promoter named Leon See who had been told of Carnera’s enormous size and incredible strength. Thus began Primo Carnera’s professional boxing career which would take him across Europe and to the United States, where he would earn the nickname “The Ambling Alp” and would go on to win the World Heavyweight Boxing title a little less than five years after his first professional fight. He would also accumulate a record setting seventy two wins by knockout!

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Primo Carnera’s granddaughter Anne Hibbetts. Anne will share family stories about her grandfather’s life, including his early years as a hungry teenager, his incredible boxing career which included bouts against such greats as Jack Sharkey, Max Baer and Joe Louis, and his acting career which included small parts in movies such as “The Prizefighter and the Lady” and “Mighty Joe Young” in which he had a tug of war scene with the giant gorilla. 

In this heart-felt interview, Anne will explain that despite her grandfather’s enormous size, physical strength, and knock-out punch, he was really a gentle giant who loved his family and treated others with gentleness and kindness, She will also explain, that despite allegations of mob involvement in the outcomes of some of Primo’s fights, he was rightfully deserving of the World Heavyweight title that he received. 

Photo(s): Courtesy of Anne Hibbetts

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

On March 11, 2005, twenty two year old Kevin Berthia stood on a narrow pipe on the outside railing of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, 220 feet above the cold water of the bay.

Kevin, who had struggled most of his life with a major depression disorder, woke up feeling hopeless that morning and could only think about stopping the pain he was feeling. A recent job loss and mounting bills had pushed him to his limit.

As Kevin was preparing to carry out his plan, he suddenly heard a voice call out to him. That voice belonged to California Highway Patrolman, Kevin Briggs. 

Over the next ninety two minutes, Officer Briggs provided a caring, listening ear and offered words of hope to Kevin Berthia. At first, Kevin felt anger toward the voice on the other side of the railing because it was interrupting his plan to get out of pain. However, things began to change the longer Kevin spoke and Officer Briggs listened. Kevin eventually felt enough hope to climb back over the railing to safety.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with both, Kevin Berthia and Kevin Briggs, who retired from the California Highway Patrol in 2013 after 20 years of service. The two men will recount the events of that day in 2005 & their subsequent reunion in 2013.

Today, these two men, who have become close friends, are mental health and suicide prevention advocates and speakers, who work tirelessly, both individually and together to help bring hope to others and save lives.

Note: This episode discusses suicide prevention. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 

1.800.273.TALK(8225)

https://kevinberthiafoundation.org

https://www.pivotal-points.com

Photo(s): Courtesy of Kevin Berthia and Kevin Briggs

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

In early 2021, life was really good for Brian and Dorothy Bayford. Married for over 20 years, they had a blended family of eight children, three of whom they adopted together. They also had many grandchildren. Dorothy was very active at her church and in her community and together with Brian had recently launched a new business.  Later in 2021 life changed for the Bayford’s when both Brian and Dorothy contracted Covid. Brian recovered from the illness, but Dorothy’s health declined and she was eventually hospitalized due to severe problems breathing. Because Dorothy was loved by so many friends and family, Brian found it difficult to keep up with all the calls and messages from those people seeking updates on Dorothy’s condition. It was then that Brian decided to begin posting daily video messages on Facebook, many from Dorothy’s hospital room to keep everybody updated. Sadly, after a courageous struggle of ten weeks, Dorothy succumbed to her illness.  On the day Dorothy passed, Brian’s post was titled “My bride, my best friend, my world”.  In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Brian Bayford about his wife Dorothy and her fervent love of God, family and country. He will also tell how, in addition to updating friends and loved ones, his posts helped him express the deep love he had for his wife. As Brian seeks to carry on his wife’s legacy, he draws strength from his faith & family and is determined to encourage others to show love to one another each and every day!  Photo(s) Courtesy of: Brian Bayford Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with the last living US Triple Ace fighter pilot from World War 2, Clarence E. “Bud” Anderson.

Bud, who celebrated his 100th birthday on January 13, 2022, began his fascination with airplanes after hearing about Charles Lindbergh’s famous flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927.  As a boy in rural California,  Bud spent hours with a friend watching bi-planes take off and land at a local air strip. 

Bud’s love of airplanes eventually led him to join the US Army Aviation Cadet Program on his 20th birthday, one month after the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the United States’ entry into WW2.

After receiving his wings, Bud entered the war in Europe as a fighter pilot. From November 1943 through January 1945, Bud flew 116 combat missions in his P-51 Mustang, which he nicknamed “Old Crow” and was credited with destroying 16 1/4 enemy aircraft.

Bud will be sharing with us stories from his life and 30 year career in the US Army Air Corps and US Air Force, which will include vivid accounts of aerial combat against the German Luftwaffe, his combat tour in Vietnam and his friendship with a German fighter pilot which developed many years after WW2.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Bud Anderson / Jim Anderson

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Have you ever heard of Jefferson Davis? If so, perhaps you learned from a high school history book that he was the President of the Confederacy during the American Civil War. 

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Jefferson Davis’ great, great grandson, Bertram Hayes-Davis, who, along with his wife Carol, own Vicksburg Old Town Tours. The tours showcase historic Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Bertram admits that he, like many others, knew little of his famous ancestor except for his role as the head of the Confederate government. However, in 1976, that all changed when he was elected  President of the Davis Family Foundation, whose mission is to support programs, organizations and events to educate people about Jefferson Davis and his life. 

From that point on, Bertram began a journey  that enabled him to uncover the entire story of the life of his great great grandfather. Through his research, Bertram discovered that in addition to being the President of the Confederacy,  Davis was also a plantation owner, slaveholder, West Point graduate, war hero,  U.S. Senator, Congressman, Secretary of War and author. Additionally, Bertram found that Davis had experienced some great personal tragedies in his life including the death of his first wife and several children.

Bertram firmly believes in the importance of sharing all of the facts when telling history and will be sharing a full account of his great great grandfather’s life, so the listener can weigh the facts for themselves and ultimately answer the question… Who was Jefferson Davis?

Photo(s): Courtesy of Bertram Hayes-Davis

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

December 7, 1941 and September 11, 2001 are two dates that will live in infamy. Although 60 years apart, they both represent defining moments in US History.  

Our guests on this episode, Dorinda Nicholson and Lieutenant Colonel Robert Darling, United States Marine Corps (retired), were eyewitnesses (respectively) to the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the response of America’s leadership from within the White House bunker to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. 

Dorinda Nicholson was born in Hawaii to a Hawaiian mother and a Caucasian father from Missouri. On December 7, 1941, Dorinda, whose family lived near the tip of the Pearl City Peninsula, was six years old when she witnessed the bombing of Pearl Harbor by Imperial Japan. Her home was only a few hundred yards from the USS Utah, the first ship to be attacked on that fateful day.  After fleeing  their home to take refuge in a sugar cane field, she and her family had a panoramic view of the attacks on the entire American fleet. 

Dorinda, who went on to become a mental health professional, is a sought after speaker and author of books such as “Pearl Harbor Child” and “Pearl Harbor Warriors”. One of Dorinda’s passions is to bring awareness to the suffering of civilian populations, particularly children during times of war.  

As an officer in the USMC, Robert Darling piloted Cobra attack helicopters during Desert Shield and Desert Storm during the 1st Gulf War and in Somalia, Africa in support of Operation Restore Hope. He was later selected to fly as a Presidential pilot with Marine Helicopter Squadron 1  and in the year 2000, he was chosen to work for The White House Military Office, Airlift Operations Department. 

While serving in that capacity on 9/11/2001, during the terrorist attacks on America, Darling responded to the underground White House bunker, known as the President’s Emergency Operations Center. From that location, he directly supported the Vice-President and the National Security Adviser during the critical moments of that day. 

Lieutenant Colonel Robert Darling retired from the USMC in 2007 after 20 years of service. He is now a professional speaker in crisis leadership and decision making and is the author of “24 Hours Inside the President’s Bunker, 9/11/01 The White House” 

In this episode of Your History Your Story, Dorinda and Robert will recount their experiences on those two historic days in American history and will tell how those events have impacted their lives. They will also share their thoughts on what we, as a country, can learn about leadership in crisis, war, and its’ impact on human lives. 

Photo(s): Courtesy of Dorinda Nicholson and Robert Darling 

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Six year old Karolyn Grimes was selected by director, Frank Capra for the role of Zuzu Bailey in the 1946 classic holiday movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life”, where she worked closely with Jimmy Stewart who played her father, George Bailey.

As a child actress in Hollywood in the 1940’s and early 1950’s, Karolyn had the opportunity to appear in many other movies with stars such as, Cary Grant, Loretta Young, John Wayne, Lon Chaney, Jr.,  and David Niven. 

Sadly, Karolyn’s life changed dramatically following the death of both her parents within one year of each other. Orphaned at 15, Karolyn left Hollywood and was sent to live with relatives in Missouri. 

Though she was extremely unhappy in her new household, she eventually thrived with the loving support of her new, small town community. She went on to college and  a successful career as a medical technologist. She also married and raised a family.

At the age of forty, Karolyn was approached by someone wanting to interview her about her role as Zuzu Bailey. It wasn’t until then  that she sat down to watch “It’s a Wonderful Life” for the very  first time. Since then, she’s been an ambassador for the movie and the positive, uplifting message it gives…this is her story.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Karolyn Grimes

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Born in the mid-1950’s, Bob Gumson grew up on the bustling streets of Canarsie, Brooklyn, where, as a young boy, he loved to participate in a wide variety of sports and games with his neighborhood friends. Bob’s life was fun and uncomplicated.

Then, following a routine kindergarten eye exam, Bob and his family learned that he had a progressive eye disease that would render him completely blind by the time he reached his early teens.  

Although Bob’s disability would present many challenges for him over the years, it never prevented him from having an exciting and purposeful life that has included many adventures as well as achievements such as his induction into the New York State Disability Rights Hall of Fame.

In this episode, Bob, whose autobiography “In Blind Sight” was published in 2021, will tell his amazing story, which he hopes will inspire others, especially those with disabilities, to “strive, persevere and overcome” and live life to its’ fullest.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Bob Gumson

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

The word “passion” can be defined as: “an intense desire or enthusiasm for something”. For some people, that may be gardening, for others it might be music, art or a host of other interests or hobbies. 

Our guests, Rick Curti and Chris LaRosa have each reached out to Your History Your Story to share how they are each actively pursuing their passions, while inspiring others to do the same. 

Rick Curti, who was originally from Southern California, has always had a passion for baseball. Though he admittedly wasn’t very good at playing the game, that never dampened his love of the sport. Now residing in Charlotte, NC, Rick is using his enthusiasm, artistic ability and networking skills to advocate bringing a MLB team to his newly adopted city.

Chris LaRosa, who lives in Southern New Jersey, began to seriously explore his family’s roots several years ago, following the passing of his mother. Genealogy has since become a labor of love, that has led to hours of mystery solving, connecting with relatives and unlocking treasure troves of stories about generations of his family.  Chris hopes to expand his passion for genealogy by helping others discover their family roots.

In this episode, “Following Your Passions”, Rick and Chris will each tell their stories, which we know will inspire you to follow YOUR passions too!

Photo(s): Courtesy of Rick Curti / Chris LaRosa

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

On April 6th 1846 the “Dred Scott Case” first went to trial in St. Louis, Missouri’s Old Court House. The case involved an enslaved couple, Dred and Harriet Scott, who filed suit against their owner to gain their freedom. 

They did this based on the fact that they had once lived in “free territory” and should therefore have been emancipated based on the doctrine of “once free, always free”, previously recognized by Missouri courts.

Little did the Scott’s know, that eleven years and several court cases later, the question of their freedom would be brought before the US Supreme Court and would result in the horrendous “Dred Scott Decision”. 

That decision would serve as a major catalyst for the turbulent events leading up to the American Civil War.

In this episode of Your History Your Story, our guest is Lynne Jackson, the great, great granddaughter of Dred and Harriet Scott and the President & Founder of the Dred Scott Heritage Foundation. 

Lynne will be sharing the fascinating story of her courageous ancestors who persevered in their pursuit of freedom. 

Picture(s): Courtesy of Lynne Jackson

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

Nellie Oleson was the arch nemesis of Laura Ingalls on the hit television series, Little House on the Prairie which ran from 1974 until 1983. Nellie, who was played by Alison Arngrim, was the character we all loved to hate! 

In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with Alison, who, in addition to being an actress , is also an accomplished  stand up comedienne and New York Times best selling author of “Confessions of a Prairie Bitch: How I survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated”. 

Alison has a passion for humanitarian causes and is currently serving as President, National Spokesperson and Founding Board Member of The National Association to Protect Children.

Alison is here today to share her story with us.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Alison Arngrim

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

If you are a fan of great movies from Hollywood’s golden era of the 1930’s and 40’s, you are really going to enjoy this episode. 

Our guest, Cora Sue Collins, was born in Beckley, West Virginia in 1927 and at age three moved with her mother and older sister to Los Angeles, California. Almost immediately after arriving in Los Angeles, she was cast in a lead role in the motion picture, “The Unexpected Father” alongside former silent film stars Zasu Pitts and Slim Summerville. 

Cora Sue then went on to act in dozens of films over the next twelve years, working with celebrities like Greta Garbo, Lionel Barrymore, Jackie Cooper, Lana Turner, Max Baer and Jack Dempsey, some of whom became her personal friends.  

In this episode, Cora Sue will share her memories of her life as a child actress in Hollywood, more than eighty years ago!

Photo(s): courtesy of Cora Sue Collins

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man

In 2016, Matt was a 185lb, health conscious, personal trainer. He had just met his future fiancé and was filled with hopes and dreams for a great future. However, his life was suddenly interrupted by a devastating diagnosis of stage 3-C testicular cancer.

Matt would undergo chemotherapy and a series of five major surgeries due to complications of his cancer. His disease and treatments took a tremendous toll on his body, reducing his weight to 110lbs in eight months. This situation rocked him to the core.

Today, Matt is healthy, energetic and enthusiastic about life. He is now a transformation coach and a sought after speaker who uses his experience and victories in his fight against cancer to help others transform their mind, body and spirit and to live their lives with purpose. 

This is Matt’s story.

Photo(s): Courtesy of Matt Ode

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man