Welcome readers to the 123rd issue of Mt. Olive Online!

By Cheryl Conway

May is the time to take a pause to recognize and honor moms, grandmas and great grandmas for their selfless acts, love, sacrifices and strength.

Several moms recently nominated are spotlighted in these pages of Mt. Olive Life. The truth is all moms deserve recognition and tribute on Mother’s Day for their nurturing, guidance and love toward their children.

The profiles below are just a sprinkling of moms willing to share their journey, like showers that bring May flowers.

Kimberly Lopez

For this Budd Lake mom, raising two young children is only part of the story. As a full-time marketing professional and president of the Mt. Olive MOMS Club, she’s also helping other mothers find friendship, support and a sense of belonging.

A resident of Mt. Olive for the past five years, Lopez has a 4-year-old girl and a 1-year-old boy.

As part of the MOMS Club for the past four years, she has made connections and friendships.

“We plan and host different events for moms in our town like play dates, mom’s night out, volunteering, giving back, etc.,” she says.  “I want to help plan and execute events for the community and bring everyone together in a fun and engaging way!” 
In Mt. Olive, she has enjoyed “Meeting so many amazing moms and fellow residents, giving back to the community and watching my kids grow in this beautiful town!” 

With all that she has on her plate, she also works full-time at Synchrony, working in marketing for the credit card company.
For moms who are trying to do it all—being there for their family, working full time and volunteering—Lopez offers some wise advice.
“Give yourself grace! You are a superstar! You got this - one day at a time!” says Lopez. “Make a list and try to stay on task. Ask for help when needed. Build a community around you.”

Outside of all that she does, Lopez does find some “me time” and enjoys reading, exercising, being outdoors, by the beach and pool.
Her mom is her greatest role model: “My best friend! I wouldn’t be who I am today without her! I owe it all to her.”

Lopez will most certainly be recognizing her mom on this day.

“We are the center of our families!” says Lopez. “We deserved to be recognized and celebrated always!” 

Tina Reyes

Born with a disability did not stop Tina Reyes’ desire to become a mother.

“I raised two sons, and I’m incredibly proud of the men they’ve become,” says Reyes of Budd Lake. “They are kind, caring and compassionate, which means everything to me.”

Living in Mt. Olive for the past 36 years, Reyes says her main role has always been as a mom and a homemaker. Despite any restrictions she may have had, she stayed involved in her kids’ lives as much as possible.

“I was born disabled and my disability has gotten worse as I've gotten older,” she admits. She was scheduled to have another surgery on April 13 to improve her walking and back pain.

“I have severe scoliosis which has caused breathing issues,” she says. “My pulmonologist advised me not to have children as it could be risky but the overwhelming desire to be a mom was too much. After having my second child my body wasn't the same and I ended up on social security disability to which I'm still on.”

Reyes is an award-winning colored pencil artist specializing in pet and human portraits in the community. But because of her increased back pain she has not picked up my pencils in a while.

When her kids were younger, she was involved in the school district as a room mother to both her boys every year while they were in elementary school.

“No matter my disability I always wanted to be there for my boys and make it as normal as a mom I can be,” says Reyes.  “I know it must have been hard for them when their friends would ask them what is wrong with your mom and why I walked the way I did.

“I always volunteered every year for field day as I wanted them to be proud of me as well,” she adds.  “I remember my youngest wrote a narrative about me his senior year in high school that still brings me to tears every time I read it which I will keep for the rest of my life.”

Besides being there for her children, Reyes’ nurturing ways overflow into the community.

“My future goals as a resident of Mt. Olive is to help others who can't help themselves,” says Reyes. “If I see someone struggling, especially the elderly in our town, I'll be right there to help no matter my disability as we could all use a helping hand.”

In her spare time, Reyes enjoys crocheting and drawing.

“Drawing is my biggest hobby as it relaxes me during hard times,” says Reyes.  “My boys are older now and moved out so you go through a lonely period. So, I try to sit at my desk and lose myself in my pencil and paper.”

From one mom to another, Reyes offers her advice.

“Give yourself grace,” says Reyes. “You don’t have to be perfect to be a great mom. Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes just getting through the day is enough. Focus on what truly matters—love, support and being there for your children. The little moments are the ones they remember most.”

She too looks at her mom as her role model.

“She was incredibly strong and loving, even through difficult circumstances,” says Reyes. “I got my strength from her, and she taught me what it means to love your children deeply. Even though I lost her to cancer at the age of 52, her influence is still a big part of who I am today.  She never held me back to do anything when I was young with my disability. She never said you can't do that and that's how I navigated life.”

Reyes is proud to celebrate her accomplishments as a mom.

“Moms give so much of themselves every single day, often without recognition,” says Reyes. “Mother’s Day is a chance to pause and appreciate that love, sacrifice and dedication. It’s important to celebrate the role moms play in shaping lives and families.”

Motherhood is clearly one of her finest accomplishments.

“Being a mom has been the most meaningful part of my life,” says Reyes. “Through every challenge, it’s been love that carried me through. I’m grateful for my boys and my husband to see me as me and not my disability, for the strength I’ve found along the way and for the opportunity to share a small part of my story.”

Gina Pascual

As if being a mom to three children is not enough, Gina Pascual of Budd Lake has been a caregiver to local neighborhood kids for more than eight years!

“I have three beautiful children: Isabella, Richard and Johnny who are my pride and joy,” says Pascual, 46. “I also have what I call bonus children, and these are the children who I have loved as my own for many years while in Mt. Olive.”

A resident for nine years, Pascual watched her neighbors’ kids “so their parents can work receiving little to no compensation,” she says. “Establishing a village of support such as finding a community of close neighbors and friends,” has been one her greatest accomplishments. 

She gives of her time even more as a three-year volunteer coach for her boys’ recreation basketball team and as a class parent at Chester M. Stephens Elementary School for more than five years.

“My biggest and most honorable accomplishment was coaching youth basketball and leading the "under dog " boys to a season championship,” notes Pascual.

To support her family, Pascual has worked part-time in the evenings and weekends at Burger King and Home Goods for nine years.

 She takes pride in supporting her local businesses.

“Most of my money is circulated back into the small in-town businesses,” she says.

Prior to becoming a mom, Pascual dedicated 22 years to the medical field as a medical assistant and a certified nursing assistant.

Looking at her future, Pascual hopes to continue “improving the quality of life, fostering a stronger community, as well as continued support of local businesses.” 

From someone who wears many hats, Pascual’s advice “to other moms juggling lots of responsibilities would be to  prioritize, build a strong support system and embrace imperfections.”

She points to her role model mom, her friend and co-worker Caitie: “Life throws some curveballs, but she always puts her children first,” says Pascual. “They are the happiest kids I know because of her! She works extremely hard at her job, setting a beautiful example of what a strong , hardworking, amazing mother is.”

This is why mothers should be celebrated: “Honoring the unconditional love, sacrifices, and vital roles a mother plays in nurturing of children and strengthening kind empathetic future generations of human beings,” she concludes.

Heidi Caruso

A mother of three grown sons, 56-year-old Heidi Caruso of Budd Lake has worked full-time as a special education teacher for the past 32 years while staying involved in the community.

As a 25-year resident, she was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, was president of the Kiwanis Club of Mt. Olive for a few years and remains a Kiwanis International member. 

While everything she commits of herself is important, Caruso admits “My children are my everything.” Nicholas and Ethan are twins and her youngest is Mason.

“Being a mom is hard,” she admits. “All too often, we work too hard to be perfect. There is no such thing.

“More importantly, we need to work together to hold each other up and support each other,” she adds. “Let’s focus more on celebrating successes with less comparing ourselves to others. Let’s also focus on being kind and helpful just because it’s the right thing to do with no expectation of getting anything in return.” 

Being kind and helpful has been Caruso’s nature.

“I am very happy to stay involved with the community as much as possible behind the scenes,” says Caruso. “I love to help people connect to each other when there is a need. I help folks find a connection with a business that can help them, or I help find volunteers for events.”

Connecting with like-minded gardeners has been her niche.

“Along with my two friends Janice and Kimberly, we have helped revitalize the Mt. Olive Gardening group,” says Caruso. “I am very proud of that group of people who share our knowledge and plants with each other. I have often had folks come to my house for tutorials and I've gone to their homes to help with pruning and planning needs.”

One of Caruso’s greatest accomplishments, outside of being a mom, is being recognized as Humanitarian of the Year by the Mt. Olive Chamber of Commerce in 2024.

“That was something I will never forget, and I cannot say how much I value that recognition from my community,” she says. 

She, too, points to her mom as her greatest role model.

“She has always worked hard, and she continues to volunteer in her community,” says Caruso. “I remember the years she dedicated to our school district in my hometown of Hillsborough. She is loving, kind and tough. I always wanted to be the kind of woman that she has been, and I think I've done a pretty good job of that.” 

Being present in kids’ lives and accepting that moms are human too is some sound advice Caruso shares to moms who juggle multiple hats.

“I would say that it is very important to show yourself some grace,” says Caruso. “We actually can't do it all and that's completely okay. The other important thing I'd say is something that took me a while to learn. Because I tried to do it all, I lost myself at times and I was overwhelmed and too stressed. I learned the hard way that it is incredibly important to just be present in the moment. In addition to that, it's important to learn how to say, "no” without any guilt.” 

Taking that pause to recognize moms is so important.

“How would we be here without them?” questions Caruso. “I truly believe that moms are tough as nails and that we aren't recognized enough. I try to celebrate women I know every day, but it is nice to have one day to focus on how special we truly are.” 

Elizabeth Ann Quirino

For more than 30 years in Mt. Olive, Betty Ann Quirino has balanced family and a lifelong writing career—raising two sons while building a legacy of storytelling, resilience and inspiration.

She and her husband, Elpi Quirino, have raised two sons: Timothy and Constante, who both attended Mt. Olive schools from elementary to high school.

Working as a writer since her college graduation, Quirino was an advertising copywriter for many years for multinational advertising agencies and was also a college professor.

“Then when I was raising our children, I chose to work as a freelance journalist so that I could have flexible hours to be home in time for the kids,” says the 68-year-old. 

“After our sons left for college, I thought I'd have more free time on my hands, being an official empty nester,” she continues. I was wrong. I was busier than ever. I am still a freelance journalist, and I got busier being a contributor to different publications, and in the process, I started to win awards for journalism excellence.”

Currently, she is a contributor for food publications such as “Simply Recipes,” “The Kitchen,” and “Taste of Home.” She writes features on the recipe history, does recipe development to accompany the article, is a correspondent for “Positively Filipino” online magazine writing about history, culture, personalities and cuisine; and author of three cookbooks. 

One of her greatest accomplishments as a writer is her 2023 memoir, “Every Ounce of Courage: A Daughter's Reflections on Her Mother's Bravery,” a story about her late mother, Lourdes Reyes Besa, a wartime heroine during WW2, who saved lives of American POWs in concentration camps.”

As a mom, Quirino’s greatest accomplishment “has been to raise a family to the best of my ability, no matter how busy I was with my own career.”

Her advice “to other busy mothers who try to juggle everything all at once, is to learn to give self-care a priority. It is important for us mothers to take care of our health and well-being first and foremost. The only way we can take care of our families is to be well ourselves— in heart, body and mind. 

“Second, and just as important, keep learning,” says Quirino. “Never stop growing and learning. There's always something new to learn every day.”

Outside of writing, she enjoys Chinese brush and watercolor painting, reading books of different genres, cooking, baking and living a life like her role model- her mom.

“My role model has always been my late mother Lulu Reyes Besa,” says Quirino. “She was probably one of the first Filipinas to bravely penetrate the concentration camps around Manila during the war, to bring food and aid to American POWs. I may never be as brave as my late mom, but as a writer, I realized this is my gift— I can tell her story and hopefully inspire others.”

Although she misses her mom, she values the celebration of all mothers.

“I think mothers are the heart and soul of a family, which is the basic unit of society—and it is because of the mothers before us who built communities and raised families, that many of us have become what we are today,” she says. 

Her reasoning as to why she wrote a memoir about her mom shows how much she loves and respects her.

 “Because what better subject matter to write about than the story of the one who shaped us. And this is why I don't see myself as an empty nester. I only need to pick up pen and paper, and I find so many reasons to write and tell stories.”

Vanessa Cabral

Living in Flanders for just two years this summer, 40-year-old Vanessa Cabral wasted no time getting involved as a mom, a parent and a parishioner.

A mother of three boys, ages 12, 11 and 5, Cabral has served as the vice president on the PTO board at Tinc Road Elementary since she came to town with her family.  

In addition, she recently started working in January 2026 as a paraprofessional at Tinc Road Elementary.
“Since moving to town in 2024, I have become immersed in the Tinc Road PTO,” she says. “I am also actively helping to plan the township’s second annual Pride Party with my church, Abiding Peace in Budd Lake.”

With all that she has going on, she says she is just getting started!

“I am currently working toward becoming a teacher in the district and hope to become even more involved within the community,” says Cabral. “I want all Mt. Olive residents, from all walks of life, to feel that they have a seat at the table. I aim to provide a welcoming, nurturing, supportive and inclusive space for all.”

Her inspiration on her “journey of motherhood” has been modeled off of “several strong women,” she says.

“Whether it be my own grandmother who left all she knew behind to seek a better life in this country, my Pastor Serena Rice who bravely serves as an advocate and voice for others, my friend Nikki Ottoson who has managed to build an amazing community serving as the President of the Tinc PTO, or my friend Maddy Caruso, whom I’ve also worked with closely on the PTO planning assemblies and various activities to ensure all children at Tinc have an amazing school experience,” mentions Cabral. “All of these women manage to accomplish significant things while prioritizing their most important role: Being a mom.”

She offers some motivating advice to other moms juggling their responsibilities.

“No matter how difficult things may be, know that you will get through it,” she says. “You are strong, you are doing enough, and you are a good partner, friend, and—most importantly—an amazing mother. Take a deep breath, relish the small moments, and know that you are never alone on your journey. Also, the calendar app and a planner are your friends!”
Her reasoning for ringing in Sunday, May 10, mirrors other moms: “Mother’s Day provides an opportunity to thank the women who ensure the world continues to spin amidst the chaos of everyday life,” says Cabral. “After all, where would any of us be without moms!”

Nicole Balthrop-Orji 

For Nicole Balthrop-Orji of Budd Lake, motherhood has been a calling to raise four children with faith and unwavering love, guiding each one toward their own path.

Linda lives in North Carolina; Anthony resides in Iowa; Keturah lives in Georgia; and Rachel lives in Pennsylvania.

“I am a true empty nester,” she says. “My husband and I never anticipated how empty the house truly feels after all the kids grow up and move out on their own.”

The house may be quieter now that they are all grown and on their own, but in her spare time as a 60-year-old, she volunteers as a Morris County Poll Elections worker, prays and studies the Bible, researches her family tree, enjoys history, reading and cooking—and most of all, reflects and celebrates on her job well done.

“A family of children raised well and independent is the goal but bittersweet at times,” says Orji. “It is the greatest work of my life to mother my four children successfully. I give honor to God for the wisdom to be the mother each individual child needed. I took the raising of my children very seriously.” 

Oji and her family moved to Budd Lake in December 2003. Her oldest daughter was 16 at the time, son was in fifth grade, daughter in second grade and youngest was 3 years old.

Before coming to Mt. Olive, she worked for 14 years at the Jewish Guild for the Blind in New York City for developmentally disabled adults who were deaf and blind. When they moved to Budd Lake, she was a full-time housewife, but after a few years went back to work at the ARC for Morris in Chester for developmentally disabled adults. There for 10 years, she became a Morris group home manager until 2020 when COVID hit.

Orji offers some meaningful advice for all moms: “If you commit your work unto the lord whatever you are doing in life—mom, sister, brother—if you commit that to God and ask him for help and to expect faithfully to answer you, you will get an answer.”

Since all children are different, they will need support at various levels.   

“They are individuals…they may need a different way of communicating,” she says. “Other kids may need more support in other areas. There are certain things I prayed for, for my children.  

“He would help me to know their gift and abilities at a young age,” she says. “Our first daughter was into basketball, poetry and writing. She uses those writing skills today.” Her son is musically inclined, and he has achieved so much in jazz. “Keturah travelled the world as an athlete [and repeat Olympian];” and her third daughter Rachel, is a dancer—“She started dancing at a very young age, she came out of my womb dancing almost.”

With moms being the most important factor in child rearing, other than God and fathers, Orji justifies her reason to celebrate the day.

“Mother’s Day is a time to commemorate one of the most important roles on the planet,” says Orji. “Women who are willing to give their body over to the biology to having a child, the time and effort to carry a child is a lot! But it’s the most important work of our existence. Yes, men have a hand in it, but women—our bodies are made to bear children and not everyone chooses to do so or does not have that ability. There is something to nurturing the next generation. It is the most important work that can be done.”

As a mother of four, Orji will be celebrated as a mom, but at the same time she will pay tribute to her mom and grandma, Weda, her best role model for nurturing children, says Orji.  

Weda, “she was a quiet caring woman. She was helpful to neighbors and those who were sick. She was a faithful worshiper at her church. She raised four independent daughters as well. 

“My own mother, I’ve won the mommy lottery although my grandmother took care of me—my mother worked, my father worked. My mom was a great mom throughout my entire life, the support the love, the unconditional, the giving that she has done has always been immense. I always tell people ‘I won the mommy lottery’—very caring person, always available.

“Mothers are usually the glue that hold that thing together,” she says. “That is the foundation of the family.”

Happy Mother’s Day to all—and to all children, goodnight!

I'm looking to spotlights fathers next!! Please email me at editor@mtoliveonline.today to nominate a dad or grandpop!

By Cheryl Conway 

Taking the soccer field by storm and winning many titles, 18 boys in Mt. Olive and their coaches were recognized last month by township leaders for their team’s continued success.

Known as the 13U Storm Soccer Travel Team, its latest and greatest victory was winning the Morris County Youth Soccer Association (MCYSA) Cup. With pride as shiny as its award, the trophy will be displayed at Mt. Olive Twp. Town Hall through November for all to see and celebrate.

“The commitment over the years is great pride to Mt. Olive, our community and to the club,” says Mt. Olive Twp. Mayor Joe Nicastro at the April 7 Mt. Olive Twp. Council meeting. “We’re all proud of your hard work and perseverance and look forward to seeing all great things to achieve.”

Storm Head Coach Robert Hathaway of Netcong attended the meeting with his team and other coaches, as each were called up and recognized.

“The level of sacrifice these boys and families and the club, none of this came easy,” says Hathaway at the meeting. “We played in rain, we played in snow. Strong commitment, that’s what it took from all parties.”  

Owner of Mountain Landscape Contractors and a former Netcong Council Member, Hathaway has been head coach of the Storm since 2021. As part of the Morris County Youth Soccer League, the team plays year-round with three seasons: Spring, April-June; fall, September-November; and winter January- March.

Storm consists of 18 rostered players aged 13 years old and younger; seven have been playing together since the team was established in the fall 2021 season. Mike Gromadzki has been the team’s assistant coach since the beginning, and Miguel Sanchez has been added recently as another assistant coach.

Seasons typically consist of eight to ten games against various competitors in Morris, Essex, Sussex, Warren and Somerset counties.  

“Any soccer club registering a team with MCYSA in this age group and talent level would be scheduled to play against the Storm team,” says Hathaway.

The fall 2025 season’s competitors were Jefferson, Vernon, East Hanover and Montville to name a few, he details. Home games are played at Turkey Brook although some of the MCYSA tournament home games were played at the Mt. Olive Middle School. Away games are played at the competitors’ home field. 

The Morris County Cup Tournament is run by single elimination.

For the MCYSA, “they played five games in that tournament so probably 10 or more teams were registered for their age group. “The MCYSA cup is played once per year in the fall season.”

This was not the team’s first victory. Storm won U13  in fall of 2025 as well.

“Through these many years this group of boys has been celebrated many times winning the MCYSA flight 5 championship in 2022 with an undefeated record, winning the Mt. Olive Soccer club Halloween tournament in 2024, and winning the Mt. Olive Soccer Club indoor tournament in 2024,” lists Hathaway.“

This year was something special,” he continues. “Team Storm won the MCYSA flight 2 championship with an undefeated record. They won the Mt. Olive Soccer Club Halloween tournament.  And to complete their amazing season they won the MCYSA Morris County Cup.

“Give credit to the players, coaches and families,” he says. “Many have sacrificed much this season and over the many years of commitment to bring this honor to club and community. Our group would like to share this award with the Mt. Olive Community because as the players shout at the beginning and end of every gathering “WE ARE THE STORM!”

While winning is wonderful, Hathaway realizes other lessons need to be learned.   

“I recognize that everyone likes winning,” says Hathaway, a former high school soccer player who also played for the Parsippany Soccer Club. “And, that winning is more fun than losing. However, my goal is to teach soccer to those that are committed and hopefully give some useful life lessons/ advice along the way.” 

Playing together for five years, team camaraderie is important as well as players perfecting their positions.

“There is enormous talent on the team,” says Hathaway. “Most players have now settled into a position that they understand and are able to perform at a high level. Individual talent ebbs and flows on sports teams and this team is no exception. This group works well together, understanding each other’s strengths and weaknesses. They stand out as a team.”

As a youth soccer coach for decades at various clubs prior, Hathway has enjoyed coaching in Mt. Olive.

“The Mt. Olive Soccer Club is a very well-run organization,” he shares. “The facilities are among the best I have encountered in my coaching experience. It is truly a pleasure to be involved here.”

Unlike a recreation team, players must try out to be on this travel team.

“Experience, commitment and talent are all required,” says Hathaway. 

For the Mt.  Olive soccer club any child can play, he adds. Tryouts are being held now and sign-ups are online. While fees depend on the level of play, travel families pay about $1,000 spring and fall and much less for winter, he says. Uniforms are required and at additional cost.

“For beginners in soccer, the club offers a variety of options including recreational soccer at Turkey Brook and ongoing instructional camps throughout the year,” says Hathaway. Fees vary but all are significantly less than travel soccer. 

“There are a variety of skill levels in which boys and girls can compete,” says Hathaway. “There is room for anyone to be involved.”

Spring into exercise for toned arms, abs, and legs before you put on those shorts! Walking won’t tone your arms or abs! Start now!!
Free Fitness Class - We are a small all female group. Our classes are small and very private and designed for the “non-gym crowd”. You can take a free class any time between now and May 31. We have a variety of different classes: Zumba, Kickboxing & Toning, Pilates, Strength Training and some other mixed cardio/toning formats.

Check out our website at: https://www.onehourfitness.net/

Group fitness classes transform exercise from a solitary chore into an energizing social experience, with women who participate showing 52% higher happiness levels and 67% less stress than those who exercise alone.

Bring your children - we have separate play rooms!

This is your chance to boost your energy, uplift your mood and feel amazing about what you’ve accomplished.

https://www.onehourfitness.net/

Email lmhars@gmail.com or call/text 973-903-0453 for information.

We are a female only group and our classes are low impact. The routines are easy to follow. Come and try a few classes.

We have package pricing so you can sign up for just 4 classes a month, 6 classes a month, 8 classes a month or unlimited classes (which is usually 26 or 27 classes a month).

ZUMBA with Deanna - Monday 6-7p.m.
A total dance/cardio workout to hip-hop or Latin music.  Join the party and dance those pounds off. Some weight training is also added in the middle of the dance routine.

STEP & KICKBOXING with Lisa  Tuesday 6-7p.m.

25 minutes of toning with a Pilate bar, 20 minutes of cardio kickboxing and abs at the end.

LOW IMPACT PILATES with Cheryl Wednesday 6-7p.m

A low-impact cardio class that elevates your heart rate without jumping or stressing joints featuring controlled movements, bodyweight exercises (squats, lunges), and intervals to build stamina. The Pilates is a low-impact workout focusing on core strength and flexibility.

STRENGTH TRAINING with Lisa 6-7p.m.

Build and maintain muscle and endurance in this dynamic full body workout. The class uses a combination of dumbbells and bodyweight exercises to challenge all major muscle groups, improved posture, and boost your metabolism. Great for all fitness levels, looking to increase tone and strength muscle.  Improve your posture.

10/10/10/10 with Karen Saturday 9-10a.m.

Cardio blast - alternative cardio intervals including step, kickboxing, aerobics with the ball and strength training.

An interval cardio class alternating different cardio activities every 10 minutes.  Intervals of kickboxing, medicine ball, aerobics, step and strength training with dyna bands are included.

STEP & SCULPT  with Lisa  Sunday 8:30-9:30a.m.

Toning segments added to a step class for all levels alternating using low level weights.  Some aerobics with ball, weights and dyna band may be added.

Address for exercise program:

New Beginnings Bible Church

104 Bartley Flanders Rd, Flanders.

Mt. Olive Twp. will be hosting an American Parade, a wonderful event dedicated to celebrating its vibrant community and the country's 250th anniversary! This festive occasion promises fun-filled activities, inspiring community spirit, and memorable moments for all.

The parade is set to take place on Saturday, May 30, beginning at 9:15 a.m. Following the parade, participants will gather in the field for a variety of engaging activities, including the opportunity to ride in classic cars or walk along to enjoy the festivities.

The community's presence and support are truly valued, and all are warmly invite to join in making this celebration special. Additional details will be shared soon.

 The All Veterans Memorial 250 Anniversary ceremony has been changed to be held on Sept. 18 and 19. 

The Anniversary will coincide with the AVM's National POW/MIA 24 Hour Vigil. The Opening Ceremony will feature the Morris County American Legion who has sponsored 50% of the POW/MIA ceremonial ground, including but not limited to the POW/MIA Stage Area, POW/MIA flag pole, POW/MIA Dog Tags, and the Ascension Bell.      

The signature POW/MIA Vigil Program with the original 250 Anniversary itinerary, including illuminating the park with candles.  More to come in the very near future. 

Those who would like to be added to the program can respond at 973.479.4959.  

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners invites the public to attend its annual Memorial Day Observance on Court Street, between the historic Morris County Courthouse and the Administration and Records Building in Morristown.

The ceremony will begin at noon on Wednesday, May 20, and will include the presentation of Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals to local veterans.

The event will also be livestreamed on the county’s Facebook page.

In recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary, the program will also feature a special commemoration honoring Continental Army soldiers who lost their lives at Jockey Hollow.

The keynote speaker is James Ferguson, a Vietnam veteran and Mountain Lakes resident who served on active duty in the U.S. Navy from 1963 to 1966. During his first two years of service, he was part of a small-boat amphibious fleet in the Atlantic, supporting Army and Marine Corps operations in Europe and the Caribbean. He later extended his service, volunteering as an officer aboard Swift boats in a newly established program, patrolling coastal waters and rivers in Vietnam from 1965 to 1966. Following active duty, he completed his service in the Naval Reserve in New York, attaining the rank of lieutenant.

For his service, he received the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Cuba) and the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon.

The Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals are unique to the county and feature the county seal encircled with the words, “Morris County Distinguished Military Service” on the front.  The reverse side displays an outline of the county alongside the American flag.

The Morris County medals include a general service honor as well as honors denoting specific eras of service, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Each medal includes a striped ribbon representing the colors associated with the era of conflict in which the veteran served, and each veteran is additionally presented with a certificate of honor.

More than 10,000 medals have been presented to veterans or to their surviving family members since Morris County began the medal program in in 1999, initially to honor WWII veterans on the 55th anniversary of the D-Day invasion.

Afghanistan War Veterans Compendium to be Launched

The Morris County Office of Planning & Preservation is seeking submissions for its Veterans Compendium project in advance of the 25th anniversary of the start of the War in Afghanistan on Oct. 7, 2026.  Veterans who served in that conflict and their families are invited to participate by providing names and information about local service members. The project is a continuation of efforts by Morris County to document local veterans who served during conflicts dating back to the American Revolution.

Basic information requested includes the veteran’s name, Morris County hometown and branch of service. Participants are encouraged to share additional details, including the names of fellow service members.

For more information or to submit biographies, please email Jan Williams, Cultural and Historic Resources Specialist of the Office of Planning & Preservation.  Jan Williams may be reached at:  jwilliams@co.morris.nj.us

We’re having a party to celebrate the anniversary of the ReStore on Rt. 57 in Washington! 

Join the Habitat for Humanity Northwest New Jersey’s ReStore staff on Saturday, May 16, for 50% off all merchandise, free popcorn, free coffee from 9 a.m. to noon, courtesy of Community Blend, and a 50/50 raffle. 

Bargains galore on housewares, furniture, knickknacks, tools, antiques, books, children’s toys and so much more. Come wander the isles and take home a treasure or two and by doing so, you are directly supporting Habitat for Humanity NWNJ’s home builds and home repair projects in Warren and Sussex Counties. 

Habitat for Humanity Northwest New Jersey is a recently merged affiliate of Habitat for Humanity, International, combining the efforts of the Warren and Sussex County Habitat for Humanity affiliates. Having merged officially in 2025, they have served Sussex County since 1993 and Warren County since 1999. An accredited 501 (c)(3) charitable organization, Habitat’s mission is: Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. You can learn more about Habitat NWNJ at habitatnwnj.org. #911#Habitat#HabitatforHumanityNWNJ 

Submitted by Lisa Brett, Mayor's Assistant

On Saturday, May 2, Mayor Joe Nicastro, along with Dr. Sumit Bangia of the Mount Olive School District, Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko, Council President Alex Roman, Council Vice President Chuck Aaron, and members of the community, officially commemorated the opening of the new cricket field with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Nicastro proudly announced the partnership with the MOTSD and the township to develop this cricket field for our community. This collaborative effort reflects our shared commitment to fostering sportsmanship, community engagement, and providing residents of all ages with opportunities to enjoy the game of cricket.

We look forward to working closely with our partners to create a welcoming and accessible space that will serve as a hub for recreation, youth development, and community connection. This project exemplifies our dedication to enriching residents’ lives and promoting healthy, active lifestyles.

We are excited about the future of this partnership and the positive impact it will have on our community. Together, we are building more than just a cricket field — we are building a stronger, more connected community.

Submitted by Lisa Brett, Mayor's Assistant

The job fair held on Monday, May 4, was a resounding success, attracting more than 100 attendees eager to explore new employment opportunities. The event featured the participation of 35 businesses, creating a dynamic environment for meaningful interactions between job seekers and employers. Attendees had the chance to engage with representatives from a diverse range of industries, fostering connections that could lead to future employment opportunities. The fair not only provided a platform for recruiting but also served as an excellent networking opportunity for the community and local businesses alike.

Mayor Joe Nicastro expressed his gratitude for the strong support from the business community that made this event possible. He highlighted the importance of such initiatives in strengthening the local economy and promoting employment growth.

“The collaboration between our community members and businesses is vital for our continued prosperity,” Nicastro stated. The event’s success underscores the community’s commitment to fostering economic development and creating pathways for residents to find meaningful employment.

Submitted by Lisa Brett, Mayor's Assistant

The Mayor's Wellness Campaign in Mt. Olive is a vital initiative that promotes healthy living and community well-being. By encouraging physical activity, nutritious eating, and preventive health measures, the campaign helps residents lead healthier lives and reduces healthcare costs. It also fosters a stronger, more connected community dedicated to wellness and overall quality of life. The  Mayors’ Wellness Fun Run Walk event was held on Saturday, May 2, attracting several dozen walkers and a few runners.

Zumba, Pilates and a dance party were a hit with a DJ under the pavilion.