FOR MARY: "YOUR BOSS IS CRAZY"

It was a cold November day when I heard a voice behind me in the County Parking Deck. The man calling said: "I have something for you." He opened his briefcase and he handed me two fine badges for the collection he admired - mine.

One of the "contributions" is pictured above. I showed it in a previous article. It's a Newark Hat Badge that was used roughly 1900 to 1920, and is in excellent condition.

The second badge was issued to the man prior to his appointment to the Superior Court. He is still a sitting Judge so it might be wise not to display that second badge here. He gave me these badges because of donations I made to the Newark FOP Museum.

I appreciated these gifts so when Christmas rolled around I just had to repay 'his honor'. I knew exactly what would make him happy - A badge that read NJ Superior Court and his name on top. I put it in a small box and had his secretary place it in the middle of his desk. I told her: "Don't say who brought this over (to his chambers).

Within 15 minutes my secretary, Mary, came into my office with a message. She said, "The Judge" called and said to her that: "Your boss is 'f........ crazy." That meant he knew where his little present came from, and that he liked it. He even took me out for lunch.

Both badges are secured under glass. They always remind me of that cold November when I got them, and that unique message acknowledging the gift. They also remind me of Mary. She ran my office, always watched my back, and helped me survive in my job.

I was lost when she resigned for greener pastures. That's life. We talked to each other to catch up on things once or twice a year. She even visited my home in Florida after I retired. Mary was a good woman, and a friend.

A couple of years ago during the Thanksgiving holiday she became a homicide victim. So much for greener pastures. What a shock, and what horrible timing. Then again there never is a good time to become another victim.

As Thanksgiving approaches I'll think of the good times when this fine lady worked for me. I'll also think of her when I look at a couple of very special badges in my little collection.