• The saddest stroke of all
The old rowing coach calls it "racy." It means being tough, having heart. It means giving all, until every muscle burns and quivers with fatigue.

• This 'Devil' scores one for a sculptor fan and Newark
In a city filled with public sculpture, some by America's most noted sculptors, the work of a just-discovered artist will soon be the most visible.

• Buried in Belmar newsletter furor is kernel of truth
Belmar Mayor Ken Pringle finds himself explaining comments he made recently about some summer renters in town.

• From a great teacher, an enduring lesson on gossip and small minds
Last week in the stands of a Little League game, a few parents were talking about their various children's entry into the social snakepit of junior high.

• Vandalism challenges their better nature
When the vandals who keep attacking the nature preserve at a Bridgewater school are finally caught, the people who created the wondrous, outdoor classroom know exactly what a judge should impose as "community service."

• On the streets where America unfurled
There is no town more red, white and blue than Chatham, and it's been that way since the start. Main Street is a patriot's path, now as it was then.

• Sendoff for a serviceman
In the back of Tabernacle Baptist Church, where the funeral service of Army Maj. Dwayne Kelley was held, there was a display of the many service uniforms he wore, and the titles he held.

• Nursing the seed of American spirit in the Garden State
The week of July 4th is a time for family picnics, town parades and fireworks exploding in the night sky. American flags are hung from porches and flown from front doors. John Philip Sousa is in the air.

• Bear arms, bear the consequences
On Thursday afternoon, the U.S. Supreme Court af firmed the constitutional right to keep and bear arms. The 5-4 decision by the justices was based on scholarly and historical interpretation of the Constitution.