Mt. Olive Online Publication January 13, 2023

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Welcome readers to the 62nd issue of Mt. Olive Online.

MO Residents Share & Regift Via New Project

Daphne with her "new" books, which will then be gifted to another child when she's done.

By Cheryl Conway


No need to wait for March until spring cleaning and garage sales take over- there is a new way in town to declutter, all the while sharing and regifting with neighbors.

Two local women have started a BUY Nothing Project Group in Mt. Olive earlier this month. The global initiative has already attracted 464 members who have joined the BUY Nothing Mount Olive, NJ, Facebook page, and more than 100 items have been shared.

The project fosters a community of people who share and give to others without anything in return, and at the same time serves as an avenue for individuals to ask for items they may want or need.

“The BUY Nothing Project is a space where people can gift others with their once loved treasures and ask for little or big things they need,” explains Nicole Spaldo of Flanders, moderator of the local chapter. 

“We started the project two weeks ago!” says Spaldo. “It is a global initiative that we did not have here in MO but I thought it was about time we did!

I saw a few friends from other towns post about their Buy Nothing Project Groups and knew I had to investigate further.” 

A resident of Flanders since 2012, Girl Scout leader and member of the Mt. Olive Democrats, Spaldo started the local chapter with Danielle DeMarzo.

The global organization itself is headed by Liesl Clark and Rebecca Rockefeller, Spaldo clarifies.

BUY Nothing Project

The project began in July 2013, when two friends, Rockefeller and Clark, created an experimental hyper-local gift economy on Bainbridge Island, WA.

Since then, the “grass-roots, all-volunteer project” has grown into a “worldwide social movement, with groups in 30 nations,” as stated on its website. “Whether people join because they’d like to quickly get rid of things that are cluttering their lives, or simply to save money by getting things for free, they quickly discover that our groups are not just another free recycling platform.”

They chose the free platform of Facebook to set up the BUY Nothing Project so members can post pictures and descriptions of items they would like to share, as well as messages requesting items they want.

As explained on the website, “Buy Nothing Project rules are simple: Post anything you’d like to give away, lend, or share amongst neighbors. Ask for anything you’d like to receive for free or borrow. Keep it legal. No hate speech. No buying or selling, no trades or bartering, we’re strictly a gift economy.”

The founders write on their site, “We’ve invested over seven years of our hearts, souls, and minds into sparking the Buy Nothing Project, working towards our goal of fostering an international network of diverse, inclusive, and equitable local gift economies in which people learn to trust in abundance and our shared desire to help each other through sharing. We are not an organization, a non-profit, a company, or any kind of legal entity. We are two friends who have volunteered our time alongside a humbling network of thousands of volunteers, and over a million participants, who carry our original ideas forward into their own communities to bring about change.”

Why The Project Is Effective

The project’s founders “have worked hard to address the first of the three infamous “Rs,” Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling,” as stated on the website.

“Participating in a local Buy Nothing Project group allows individuals and communities to reduce their own dependence on single-use and virgin materials by extending the life of existing items through gifting and sharing between group members. Rethinking consumption and refusing to buy new in favor of asking for an item from a neighbor may make an impact on the amount of goods manufactured in the first place, which in turn may put a dent in the overproduction of unnecessary goods that end up in our landfills, watersheds, and our seas.”

Project Begins In MO

Around the second week in January this year, Spaldo and DeMarzo began the project in Mt. Olive. 

The group is open to all Mt. Olive residents, 21 and older.

The requirements include: “Live in MO. Be over 21. Don't be in any other BN groups,” says Spaldo.

“We are trying to limit participants to MO to focus on "giving where you live" and building a strong community through gratitude and graciousness,” she explains. 

Items for sharing can be big or small, new or used, affordable or expensive.

Spaldo says items included are “Everything! Plant cuttings to new dryers!”

She says, “I needed 14 paper fasteners. What a waste to buy an entirely new package! Someone in the group had some and I made her a personalized sticker on my Cricut for her daughter. We all have things we don't need any more and everyone needs something. Our town needs this to foster community and solidarity beyond the constructs of financial disparities.”

Within two weeks, more than 100 items were up for grabs.

“I have shared a robot vacuum, a journal, yarn, a Lenox ornament, a cookbook holder, garlic press, treadmill,” says Spaldo.   “I have already been gifted a new gas dryer which I am so excited about! 

“I think we have rehomed at least 100 items in two weeks,” says Spaldo. “I would not use the word donated because it's not charity. It's sharing. Economic differences have no place in this group. I could buy a new package of paper fasteners but I'm choosing to borrow them to reduce waste and to build relationships with my neighbors.

“It's a different way of thinking,” continues Spaldo. “It's not a first come first served mentality. It's been difficult to train people away from this but we are learning together! 

“I like the fact that it is fair and fosters equality in our community,” she adds.

“Its members,” make the project successful, says Spaldo. “I hope it lasts forever!” 

To join the group, residents need to “Join our Facebook group and post! That's all it takes,” says Spaldo.  

For more information on the project, go to https://buynothingproject.org/

Upcoming Township Projects

Township Tackles Football Turf At Turkey Brook

Township Tackles Football Turf At Turkey Brook

Township Tackles Football Turf At Turkey Brook

By Cheryl Conway


As one of several projects being tackled in Mt. Olive Township, a new turf football field is one goal set to be down by June’s end.

The field will be constructed at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake later this year and will provide a prime location for youth teams and the public to kick, punt, throw, catch, defend, tackle, run and score. Mt. Olive Township and the Mt. Olive Junior Marauder Football Association will be splitting the cost for the near one million-dollar project.

With field usage in the township at its max, and field conditions in poor condition, the township and football association decided that turf is the best solution to this problem.

“The field gets a lot of use, servicing six contact levels of football and flag football for kids in grades k-8 and is in poor condition,” says Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko.

“The turf field will reduce field maintenance, labor and costs as well as give us more opportunities to utilize the field in the off season and in poor weather conditions,” he says. “The MOJMFA is a feeder program to the higher-level sport programs so the benefits of playing on a turf field will help our youth develop.”

More and more fields have been blooming at Turkey Brook Park over the years, and sunflowers is not one of them. Sports fields are taking over and for youth who are sports-minded, their options are growing in Mt. Olive.  

“There is an existing grass field at Turkey Brook Park which we are converting to turf,” explains Tatarenko.

“We are soliciting quotes now from the turf vendor and our engineering is preparing bid specifications for the site work,” he says. “Installation should commence early spring of this year.”

With funds coming from the Mt. Olive Twp. Capital Budget, Tatarenko notes that this spending will not increase municipal property taxes.

The township will partner with the football association to fund the new turf, similar to how it funded the turf soccer fields also at Turkey Brook Park over the years.

“The township authorized $950K to be spent on this project which includes engineering, turf, installation and site work, a new press box/storage shed and goal posts,” explains Tatarenko.  “It will be split 50/50 with the Mount Olive Junior Marauder Football Association.

“The turf will be purchased and installed by FieldTurf as their product is on an approved purchasing co-op,” he continues.  “The site work contractor has not been selected yet.”

Tatarenko says “The goal is to be completed by the end of June 2021 and be ready for the next season.”

While the football association will be the main users of the field, township residents will also have access, again similar to how players use the soccer and baseball fields in town. 

“MOJMFA will have priority use of field scheduling and usage, however, the field is open to the public when not in use,” he concludes. 

New Pavilion Uncovered At Turkey Brook

Township Tackles Football Turf At Turkey Brook

Township Tackles Football Turf At Turkey Brook

By Cheryl Conway


For those wanting to picnic or get some shade, Mt. Olive Township has got you covered with the installation of a new pavilion in town.

Located at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake, the new pavilion has been built next to the Splash Pad.

“The work started in November and is now complete,” says Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko. “Additional site work is still needed.” 

The pavilion was installed by Ben Shaffer Recreation’s contractor Corby. The square structure measures 50 ft. by 50 ft., is an ICON shelter with metal roof panel, describes Tatarenko.

Township officials allocated $182K from its Capital Budget to fund the pavilion. Municipal taxes will not be impacted by this purchase, he adds.

The pavilion will be used for picnicking, small gatherings, shade and more, says Tatarenko.

“It’s free to the public to enjoy,” says Tatarenko. He advises to “check with the Recreation Department for more information,” on using the pavilion.

“The park is heavily used between the Splash Pad, Mount Playmore and the sport organizations,” explains Tatarenko. “The pavilion will give our residents and visitors a place to sit, have lunch and enjoy the park.” 

Talk Of New Park To Walk & Skate Coming To MO

Township Tackles Football Turf At Turkey Brook

Talk Of New Park To Walk & Skate Coming To MO

By Cheryl Conway


Walking trails, remote control vehicle track and a hockey/skating rink is on the horizon in Mt. Olive.

Valley Brook Park is being developed at 90 Pleasant Hill Rd. in Flanders, right across from the Flanders Valley Golf Course. The 112 acres has previously been used as a horse training facility.

While Mt. Olive has a few other public parks, more space to walk, breathe and enjoy the outdoors can only be inviting to its residents.

“Community wellness, quality of life and robust recreational opportunities are the hallmarks of Mt. Olive,” says Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko. “Adding new facilities and areas where the public can enjoy the outdoors is important.”

Mt. Olive Twp. received this land as a donation years ago but had been leasing it out. Monies will be required to improve the land and utilize for passive recreation purposes.

“The township acquired the property through a developer’s land donation and we continued the use by leasing out the property for five years to a horse trainer,” explains Tatarenko.  “The lease expired at the end of 2020 and we decided not to re-bid the property.  The decision was made to re-develop the area into a more useful site.” 

Tatarenko explains how the town gained access to this land. “It was acquired when the Toll Brothers Regency & Marveland Farms Development was approved.” 

Unlike the other parks in town, Valley Brook Park will serve other purposes.

“The other two parks, Turkey Brook Park and Flanders Park, are more active parks with playgrounds and sports fields,” explains the business administrator. “Valley Brook Park will be a unique setting where residents can enjoy more of a passive nature environment.

“The area is also large enough and already has some of the infrastructure needed for us to move forward with some of the other requests we received throughout the years, (RC track, skate park, etc.)”

While there is no cost for this land since the township already owns it, monies are required to repurpose the land.

“The park will be developed in phases,” says Tatarenko. “There will be $150K in the 2021 capital budget to start the improvements.

“The first phase is to start with the passive use by converting the horse track into trails and walking paths,” he explains. “A gazebo may be added with new trees and landscaping.  The site currently has three large stables and an indoor horse training facility.  We will re-purpose those indoor structures for other recreational use.  Possibly an indoor skate park, RC track & hockey/skating rink.” 

The time-table for completion of Valley Brook Park is yet to be determined, he says.

But “at a minimum, I hope to have some of the walking trails available by the end of the year.” 

Getting the land ready for usage is not “a walk in the park,” but is not an impossible task.

“There is extensive clean up that needs to be done, removing fencing, gates, old horse stable equipment, etc.,” says Tatarenko. “Parking lots need to be constructed along with ensuring proper ingress/egress.   The property also has wetlands, conservation easements and utility easements which we need to work around and get proper permits for.” 

Advertise in Mt. Olive Online

MO Schools Reorganize, Return To In-Person

By Cheryl Conway


Students returned to school on a rotating cohort schedule with many still learning at home virtually.

Mt. Olive Schools Superintendent Dr. Robert Zywicki also announced today that the school day will return to full day schedule starting Feb. 16. With more individuals getting vaccinated, Zywicki has been advised that it is safer to return to a full day of in-person learning.

He plans to host a Parent University via ZOOM for parents in grades K-5 on Tuesday, Feb. 2, at 6:30 p.m., and for parents in grades 6-12 at 7:30 p.m.

The Mt. Olive Board of Education met twice this month to reorganize. The first meeting was livestreamed via U-Tube since there is a limited number of persons allowed to attend indoor meetings based on the New Jersey state mandate with COVID 19.

The last meeting held this past week on Monday, at 6:30 p.m., was held virtually. The taping was shared today and not yet viewed by "Mt. Olive Online."

At the Jan. 4 meeting, the BOE held formal ceremonies for the three board members recently elected to office. Dr. Antoine Gayles was reelected for a three year term after receiving the most votes of 5,755; Christopher Zeier received 5,191 votes as a new member to the board ; and Rhonda Cohen received 4,519 as a returning member.

The three were called up to take their oath of office to the BOE.

Nominations for BOE president and vice president were then taken. BOE member John Kehmna nominated Dr. Anthony Giordano as board president; BOE member William Robinson nominated Gayles. Giordano, who served as the current BOE president, won the nomination after the BOE voted 6-3.

Cohen was then nominated to serve as BOE vice president and the full board voted yes.

During the public portion of the meeting, one mom questions the board on its plans of in-person learning.

Zywicki explains that before holiday break, there were 50 teachers who were quarantined due to the virus. He says more than 90 percent of those teachers have returned.

Every Thursday, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Mt. Olive High School is opening its doors at its Performing Center Lobby for free walk-in COVID 19 testing and anti-body testing for students, teachers, faculty and Mt. Olive families. Photo id’s are required along with insurance card, if available.

Zywicki explains that the purpose for that testing is for “safety.” He says a lot of people did travel over holiday break.

The idea is to capture and identify those who are asymptomatic, he says, as a means to help prevent spread of the virus.      

Township News

Township Officials Reorganize For 2021

Township Officials Reorganize For 2021

Township Officials Reorganize For 2021

By Cheryl Conway

                                                                  

In meetings this month, the Mt. Olive Twp. Council and mayor met to reorganize for the 2021 year.

Leaders were nominated and the municipal budget was introduced carrying no municipal tax increase. 

At the Tuesday Jan. 5 meeting, Council President Joe Nicastro was nominated to hold his seat for a seventh executive term as council president. All seven members voted yes.

“It’s so wonderful he cares so much about our community,” comments Councilwoman Colleen Labow, as she congratulates Nicastro.

Council Vice President Alex Roman was also nominated to hold his seat as vice president and all voted in favor.

Mayor Rob Greenbaum presented his annual Mayor’s Address focusing on progress and accomplishments from each department in the township.

2021 Budget

At the last council meeting held this past Tuesday, on Jan. 26, Mt. Olive Twp.’s Chief Financial Officer Sherry Kolody gave an overview of the 2021 Mt. Olive Twp. Municipal Budget.

Kolody commented on how this is Greenbaum’s 20th budget and her 22nd.

“Twenty budgets is a big accomplishment,” says Kolody.

Budget hearings with each department were held in November 2020 and involved meetings with department heads, herself, Greenbaum and Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko, to review performance results.

She says the municipal budget must be introduced to the public by March 30 and adopted by April 30.  In addition, the state needs to look at the budget every three years with this year meeting that requirement.

The township is also obligated to comply with the 2% CAP law.

The projected municipal tax rate is .606 which is the same rate as in 2020 “so we have no planned tax increase,” she says. The township has not “had a tax increase since 2012,” on the municipal side that is. “This will be our ninth sequential budget with no tax increase.”

Municipal taxes on an average assessed home of $322,039 is $1,953, she adds. There is also no planned tax increase for sanitation, water nor sewer rates. Municipal taxes include just 19% of the overall tax rate. The largest portion falls under school taxes yielding 69% of the overall tax rate. County taxes are 8% of the pie.

Kolody says that 64% of the township’s revenue comes from property taxes.

The largest expenditure increases occurred with salaries and benefits totaling $431,907 and pensions for $372,627.

Moving into 2021, Kolody says there is $4.758 million left in the fund balance which represents almost 15% of the budget.

Roman questions when property ratables will slow down and when more businesses will be coming into town.

Greenbaum responds by saying there are a number of developments currently being built. With Mt. Olive falling on the Trade Zone side, he is not sure what the turn around will be there.

“Based upon that, it’s difficult to give a direct answer to those questions,” says Greenbaum. “If you don’t grow, you will see a tax increase.”

Looking at growth capabilities in Mt. Olive, Greenbaum says Mt. Olive will most likely reach its capacity for growth in 10 years.  He says the Trade Zone is the only area that can grow in Mt. Olive’s borders. There is “nothing left of any significance in Mt. Olive that can develop. Most of our neighborhoods are established.”

He says one concern is that there is no school system on that side of town where the Trade Zone sits. Therefore, he says “it makes no sense to build new houses” to fund a school in that area of town.

Roman also questions the cause of salary increases. Kolody says it is the increase in manpower that increased rather than individual salaries.

Greenbaum concludes, “Kudos to Sherry. I know we do this every year. You are tops.” And to Tatarenko, he says, “You exceeded my expectations.”

The council was planning to have its first budget hearing Saturday, Jan. 30,  at 9 a.m., to discuss the budget in detail.

Other Twp. News

In other news from the meeting, Tatarenko announces that a preservation project to protect Route 206 is planned from Furnace Rd to the Route 80 ramp from June to November this year.

He and Greenbaum also met with N.J. Senator Steven Oroho recently to discuss the Wawa and detailed plans with the N.J. Department of Transportation. Access permits have been holding up the project, explained Tatarenko, but it looks like the DOT will be moving forward with the proposal.

“The fact that Senator Oroho got involved is impressive,” says Greenbaum, adding that he is more pleased that the intersection will be receiving improvements on all sides, north, south, east and west. “It has nothing to do with the Wawa,” says Greenbaum. “I applaud Senator Oroho’s effort. “His dedication has made a huge difference,” and improvements will be appreciated by all who go through that intersection. 

The township also applied for a grant to fund a fire prevention service dog. Tatarenko says it looks like the township will be getting a canine. The grant will cover the expenses for the dog along with required training in Maine with its handler under the fire marshal.

Roman questions whether the township can offer a community dog naming contest. Tatarenko responds, saying “I think the dog already comes with a name.”

Roman, disagreeing, says as an owner of multiple dogs in his life, “you can change a dog’s name.”

Greenbaum also mentions some property maintenance issues like the two to three disabled vehicles that have been parked at the Walmart at the International Trade Zone resulting in a $250 fine, and will be increased to $1,000 if the vehicles are not removed.

“I don’t understand it; I’m not happy with it,” he says about the vehicles.

He also raises the vehicles parked at the former Old Mill historic building on Route 206 and Flanders Netcong Rd.

“I’m all over that like a fly on pooh pooh,” says Greenbaum, adding that he would like to see that building go back into use at some point.

COVID 19 Results

Roman asks for an updated count, comprehensive report, on those in town who have tested positive, died from the virus or gotten vaccinated for COVID 19.

Labow says “there seems to be a lot more positives,” especially with the heavier strain of the virus.

Greenbaum says he gets updated regularly on the numbers and shares them on his Facebook page, especially the three-day trends.

“There’s a lot of data that we don’t have,” says Greenbaum like the number of residents who have gotten vaccinated.

“Whatever info. we do have we do post,” says Greenbaum.

Tatarenko says he will recheck with the health department for any new updates, especially regarding the number of residents who have gotten vaccinated thus far.

“We don’t have epidemiologists on staff,” says Tatarenko. “This is a global pandemic. Whatever I get is shared.”

He says the township has received numerous inquiries regarding COVID 19 vaccinations. He suggests residents call 855-568-0545 for assistance on preregistration and vaccine appointments for those who do not have online capabilities.

Fires in Twp.

The township officials also mention the recent fires in town, thanking the fire department for its bravery and the community for helping those families in time of need.

Labow shares that the fire at the LongHorn Restaurant at the International Trade Zone in Flanders on Jan. 19 was deemed unsuspicious.

Greenbaum adds that there were three restaurant fires the same night.

He says of the LongHorn, “There’s no question they will rebuild,” even bigger. And they have found displacement work for their employees.

The other fires included an apartment fire and house fire, both in Budd Lake.

“Our town steps up to support people in needs,” says Nicastro. “Our firemen are very brave,” adding how grateful he is that there were no injuries.

To contribute emergency funds to the family who endured a devastating loss of their home and car from a house fire on Bridle Lane,  go to gofundme.com Lloyd family House Fire. As of press time, $40,400 has been raised to help this family who lost everything on Jan. 18.

The other fire occurred on Jan. 8, Building 2 of the Village Green Apartment Complex in Budd Lake.

State of the Township Address 2021

Township Officials Reorganize For 2021

Township Officials Reorganize For 2021

Council President, members of the Town Council, Municipal Employees, friends, relatives and fellow residents of Mount Olive:  I proudly conclude my ninth year as Mayor of this wonderful Township, and nineteenth year as an elected official.  I once again thank you for the opportunity to report on the 2021 State of the Township of Mount Olive.

It goes without saying that 2020 has been a difficult year for all of us.  On the municipal level, we recognized early on that the pandemic would have a drastic impact both in terms of the level of service the Township would be able to provide, and the loss of revenue that we would have to deal with both in 2020 and in fiscal year 2021. From the beginning of the year, we took drastic measures to cut back on spending, recognizing what we were likely to face as a result of the Covid-19 virus.  Fortunately, those ultra conservative fiscal measures we adopted have resulted in the Township being positioned well and financially sound to undertake our responsibilities in 2021.   

As in past years, the most important goal continues to be tax stability. Notwithstanding the pandemic, for the ninth year in a row, we will be introducing a budget that will include no municipal tax increase for the residents.
Notwithstanding the realization of no municipal tax increases for almost a decade, nothing gives me greater pleasure then the continued pride our residents have for this community.  I am so very excited that our pride will be on display next year as we celebrate Mount Olive’s 150th Anniversary. 

In terms of our facilities, next year I am looking forward to the installation of a new turf football field at Turkey Brook Park and the beginning of development of passive recreation at Valley Brook Park, across from Flanders Golf Course. 

Of course, all of the accomplishments could not have been achieved without the hard work and support of the Governing Body. We work collaboratively as a team in Mount Olive. I would once again like to thank Joe Nicastro for his leadership in 2020 and look forward to working with him again in 2021. I congratulate Joe on his appointment to another term, I believe an unprecedented seventh consecutive term as Council President and thank him and the rest of the Township Council for their support and guidance. While I generally get the credit, the successes are equally shared with and earned by the Township Council. So too, I would be remiss by not highlighting the outstanding work and accomplishments of your Department Heads and employees.

Prior to discussing each of the Department’s successes in 2020, I wanted to specifically thank the Health Department for guiding our Township and the many municipalities they serve through these very difficult times.  

Administration

The Administration Department continues to coordinate all aspects of local government and is responsible for the day-to-day operations associated with all municipal activities.  Those responsibilities increased significantly during the pandemic as the primary goal was to ensure that all essential public services were delivered, Township employees, residents and visitors were kept safe, the Executive Orders were being followed and to oversee the Office of Emergency Management.   Even in the midst of a pandemic, the daily challenges were overcome.

As with any large organization, a significant amount of time was spent on Human Resources, hiring seventeen new employees and processing three retirements.  The pandemic posed challenges as new Federal and State leave programs were made available and work from home accommodations were implemented.  As we enter into 2021, we will continue to look for dedicated individuals to best serve our Township and provide a work/life balance to ensure our employees can deliver the essential public services that you rely on.

Legislatively, we supported policies and made changes to our ordinances to reflect the current environment and we will continue to make recommendations as we encounter issues throughout the year.  Most notably, the land use ordinance was revised allowing for an overlay zone to accommodate the development of a solar field at the Comb Fill North landfill. 

Amidst the pandemic, projects continued that would best serve the residents of Mount Olive.  Phase I of the Old Flanders Sewer project was completed, the Seward House received another phase of upgrades, and the dilapidated Blue Bird was condemned and demolished.

Of most financial significates, a new approach to transfer the tax certificate of the Combe Fill North landfill yielded a bid of $525,000, the $2,000,000 tax lien to be paid off and the re-establishment of property tax.  Additionally, the Township owned fifty-seven acres was re-bid and sold to a developer for $6,750,000.  Once these transactions are finalized, the revenue will increase our fund balance and stabilize taxes for years to come. 

Long standing problems were also addressed.  Odor issues from Mint-X ceased as we were successfully able to litigate our environmental and health concerns putting an end to all Mint-X production.  In addition, significant headway was made with improving the water quality of Budd Lake as we continue to mitigate HABs and stormwater runoff.  Furthermore, our shared services continue to deliver as our contracting towns show confidence in our services by renewing their contracts and adding additional services.  The Township is the provider of fourteen shared services, generating over $500,000 in gross revenue.

Over $1,500,000 was awarded in grants from Federal, State and County agencies and we will continue to look for additional grant opportunities to help offset our expenditures.  Major projects include the rehabilitation of Continental Drive, the restoration of the Seward House, the HAB mitigation grant and the Local Government Emergency grant.  

Our office was also instrumental in coordinating various volunteer groups, promoting local businesses, keeping residents informed and soliciting thousands of dollars’ worth of donations for personal protective equipment.

Finance Department

The Finance Department, which comprises the finance, collection and assessment divisions maintained healthy fund balances in 2020 despite revenue losses experienced due to the pandemic. 

In the Tax Assessment Division, the Township received over $728,000 in revenue from $36,000,000 in added assessments.  We also settled sixteen County tax board judgments which resulted in no refunds.  For 2021, our property values are expected to grow by $25,000,000 or almost 1%.  We have the lowest number of pending state tax appeals in comparison to similar Morris County towns and are near the top in added assessment revenue increases.

In the Collection Division, we were responsible for collecting over $110,000,000 in property taxes, water and sewer rents.  Our tax collection exceeded 99% which we have been able to do since 2014.  A successful tax sale also resulted in over $181,000 in premiums which will return to the Township in five years pending no lien redemptions. 

In the Finance Division, the 2019 audit was completed for the twelfth year in a row with no audit recommendations, along with no recommendations for the LOSAP, JIF and arbitrage audits.  The best practice checklist was completed satisfactorily to obtain our final allotment of state aid and we met our continuing disclosure requirements.  All non-vested LOSAP accounts were closed resulting in an additional $51,000 in revenue, banking services have been renegotiated, e-signatures are now accepted on purchase orders and the operating budget has been reduced by 19%.  A historical bond sale was conducted for almost $10,000,000 that earned a low interest rate of 1.25% and a premium of $245,000 to be retained by the Township.  Finally, reports were prepared using the new FAST online module, we continued to assist and finalize the Old Flanders sewer assessment and the annual water/sewer study was prepared. 

Police Department

The Mount Olive Police Department successfully navigated the challenge of maintaining sufficient staffing during the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts continued uninterrupted in preventing crime, crashes and negative quality of life issues. The police department also provided safe environments for our community to express their First Amendment Rights where it concerned racial injustice and political advocacy. Though the pandemic impacted our ability to connect with the community with police sponsored events, we did establish a Police Chaplain Program to continue building relationships in the community.

The Mount Olive Police Department is a community oriented police department that utilizes data driven technology and intelligence to direct resources.  The Mount Olive Police Department is committed to following nationally recognized best practices and maintaining accreditation through the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.

Department of Public Works

In the Roads Department, another successful year of paving was accomplished by resurfacing over twenty roadways and improving drainage in eight areas prone to flooding.  

The Parks, Building and Grounds Department continued to address the original HVAC systems in the municipal building by replacing three units.  Improvements were made to the dog park with the addition of water fountains and agility stations.  Additionally, a new pavilion at Turkey Brook Park was installed. 

In the Water and Sewer Department, engineering plans continue for the installation of water lines in the Pershing Estates Development and a new communication monitoring system is being designed for wells and pumps for the Morris Chase, Tinc and Sand Shore water system.   Additionally, a forty-five year old filtration system at the Cloverhill Sewer Treatment Plant was replaced along with several pump replacements to sewer stations on the Budd Lake System.

The Sanitation Department continued with another successful town wide large item cleanup and seamlessly took over trash collection for the townhouses at Morris Chase.  New sanitation and recycling trucks were purchased, expanding our one arm bandit fleet, and a “Breast Cancer Awareness” campaign was launched offering pink recycling cans to the public.

The Fleet Department continues to handle all maintenance issues for township owned vehicles.  All department vehicles remained up and running at their full capacities during the pandemic, ensuring the response of all essential frontline workers. 

Recreation Department

The Recreation Department, which was hit hardest operationally from the pandemic, started with a successful Ski and Snowboard program for Mt. Olive High School students. Additionally, programs were offered during the winter spanning from basketball to painting.  Starting in March, virtual programs and socially distanced events took shape.   Twelve new virtual programs were offered from Coding for Kids, STEM, cooking classes and art programs.  A Drive-in Movie, Foodie Fest, Oktoberfest and new Air and Land Remote Control event were safely done giving our residents a much needed escape from the pandemic.  All of these events would not have been possible without the great support of our local business sponsors.

After receiving guidelines for aquatic events, the Budd Lake Beach Park opened in June along with the Mt. Olive Pool at Centercourt Sports.

Recreational youth sports were also able to start again with strict COVID-19 pandemic guidelines in place.

Plans have started for celebrating the Township’s 150th Anniversary in 2021. Over one hundred businesses have already sponsored banners around town for the yearlong celebration. Visit the Recreation website, Facebook and Instagram to see the online catalogs for spirit wear, commemorative items, photos and books.

Health Department

Like all health departments across the county, ours has dedicated most of its human resources this year towards fighting the COVID-19 global pandemic.  Since late February, the Health Department has investigated approximately nine hundred cases of COVID-19 in Mount Olive and over forty-five hundred when including the other towns that we serve.  This includes investigating and helping to control outbreaks at long term care facilities, group living facilities, our public schools, daycare centers, and local businesses. Daily, the Department has provided advice and assistance to these entities so that they can stay open for business.  To sustain these efforts, the Department leveraged existing resources and relationships and was able to onboard six contact tracers from the NJ Department of Health. The Board of Education also provided six of its school nurses to assist in case investigations.

In addition to conducting case investigation and contact tracing, the Department’s Environmental Division has been working non-stop with our Office of Emergency Management on the interpretation and enforcement of State Executive Orders and directives. Our Health Officer, along with several other Health Officers in the State, worked with the NJ Department of Health to create a funding formula to equitably distribute $5,000,000 to local health departments to offset the costs associated with fighting the pandemic. Mount Olive received over $180,000 this year due to these efforts and the Department anticipates similar funding in 2021.

The Senior Transportation Program continues to serve residents despite the obstacles COVID-19 has presented. Over the past year, staff made over fifteen hundred trips taking our seniors to their medical appointments. They also delivered over twenty-four hundred meals to homebound, low-income seniors. Despite the reduction of ridership experienced this year, the future of the program appears very bright. The Health Department applied for and will receive funding through the Federal Transit Administration grant. This funding will be utilized to further expand the scope of services provided by the program.

The Health Department continues to assure that our presence is known in Trenton.  After fifteen years of serving on the Board of New Jersey Association of County and City Health Officials, our Health Director has stepped down and our Deputy Health Officer has filled his shoes and was appointed to the Board in November and continues to serve on the New Jersey Department of Health’s Public Health Licensing Board.  This appointment will ensure that public health needs of the Township of Mount Olive and its contracted municipalities will continue to be considered in future state public health planning efforts.

IT Department

During the early months of the pandemic, the IT department successfully deployed a secure remote desktop platform to all Mount Olive Township and Police Department employees. The platform allows up to two hundred fifty employees to work from home while keeping business continuity in their departments. All employees had training on the remote application and were given a take-home device. The IT department continuously monitors and provides support for the remote application and township employees.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the IT department implemented a web-based video conferencing tool for all virtual township meetings and webinars.

The IT department continually broadens security awareness to all employees with interactive training, educational courses, email security guidelines and best practices. Simulated phishing cyberattacks under the guidance of Morris County JIF's Cyber Risk Management Program are conducted yearly to strengthen email security awareness for all employees.

Planning Department

The Planning Department’s key accomplishments for the year included the work on the General Development Plan review with the Planning Board for the eventual development of six hundred eighty-six residential units consisting of single family homes, townhomes and apartments on one hundred twenty-six acres in the FTZ-4 zone.  This project will include one hundred thirty-eight affordable units towards the Township’s affordable housing obligation.

Other development projects of note include the approval of a new solar array facility on the former one hundred acre Combe Fill North landfill made possible by the creation of a special Redevelopment Plan designation, the demolition of the former Boat House Restaurant on Sand Shore Road to make way for a new restaurant and residential apartment at the same location, the conversion of the former Sam’s Club building to an Amazon distribution facility, and the redevelopment of the former Budd Lake School property on Rt. 46 to a self-storage facility.

The number of Zoning Permits issued totaled five hundred twenty-five including two hundred seventy-two done remotely between March and July.  The Township Planner, in his role as Zoning Officer, also worked directly with restaurants and eateries in the Township to fast tract and simplify Outdoor Dining Permits in response to the COVID-19 indoor dining restrictions.

The Township Planner worked with the Land Conservancy to produce an updated Open Space and Recreation Plan which was adopted by the Planning Board as part of the Township’s Master Plan, initiated efforts to amend zoning regulations to provide greater flexibility for homeowners to install fences and to enable homeowner associations to be alerted to zoning permit applications from its members to ensure compliance with its rules.

The Township Planner, in his role as Municipal Housing Liaison, responded to inquiries and coordinated efforts between the developer of Mountain Ridge Estates and the Township’s affordable housing consultant to assist in the application process for the fifty-four affordable units now under construction.  Over three hundred applications have been submitted to date. 

In his capacity as Zoning Officer, twenty-six property maintenance notices were issued, twenty-eight zoning violations, and four summons resulting in appearances and fines in municipal court.  The Department registered thirty-three vacant and abandoned properties collecting $11,500 in recording fees and processed over four hundred OPRA requests. 

Construction Department

During the past year, the Construction Department has collected over $800,000, issuing over sixteen hundred construction permits and over twelve hundred certificates of occupancy. 

The Department conducted over five thousand inspections and will continue to bring the best possible service to the residents, business owners and contractors of Mount Olive. 

Fire Prevention

The Fire Marshal’s Office enforces fire safety regulations to every commercial building and business in the Township, along with providing shared services to Chester Borough, Hackettstown and Allamuchy.  Over eighteen hundred businesses are inspected annually along with nine hundred seventy residential inspections generating over $308,000 in annual revenue.  The Fire Marshal’s Office was also responsible for investigating forty fires throughout all the towns we provide service.  A recent audit by the NJ Division of Fire Safety was completed and the office received exceptional remarks. 

Conclusion

This is only a snap shot of the many achievements and accomplishments our Township Departments and employees have achieved this past year.  I will continue to strive to make Mount Olive Township the best place to live, work and raise a family.  I consider every member of the community a family member.  The pride that you have shown me, the dedication for our community and the support that we have for one another is overwhelming. 

I know there are still many things upon which we need to improve and I promise to do my best to accomplish and make as my priority in the New Year.  I look forward to and ask for the resident’s support for many years to come.  In closing, I would like to thank the Township Council, our Business Administrator and all of our Department Heads and Municipal Employees for a job well done in 2020.  May the New Year bring you good health, happiness and prosperity.


With Gratitude and Appreciation,


Rob Greenbaum

Mayor, Mount Olive Township

A Dedication...For My Father

By Cheryl Conway
 

Alvin S. Kornfeld, 80, of Succasunna, N.J., died Sunday morning Jan. 10, 2021 at Morristown Memorial Hospital.  He was born on May 27, 1940 in Manhattan, N.Y. to the late Benjamin and Gertrude (Cohen) Kornfeld.

He was a graduate of Eastern District High School, Brooklyn, N.Y., and moved to New Jersey living in Lodi, Fair Lawn and Succasunna for almost 46 years.

Alvin was a retired salesman for 45 years of many trades including Therma Spas, Craftmatic adjustable beds, Life Alert systems, baby pictures and shoes, where he worked for his uncle at the Shoe Fair in Fair Lawn for 18 years. He was a Million Dollar Award Salesman for Therma Spas. Whatever the product was he could sell it. Someone recently said “he could sell ice to the Eskimos.”

He served in the U.S. Army Reserves during peacetime from 1962-1967. Spending time with his wife, Toby, of 56 years, along with his four children and nine grandchildren was his greatest joy. He always looked forward to watching and cheering them on at their soccer games, basketball games, dance recitals and singing “Happy Birthday” no matter near or far.

Anyone who knew Alvin, would say that the smile in his eyes and on his lips would light up a room, his funny faces would make you laugh, his creative games would keep you playing, his entertaining stories would keep you listening, his sayings would keep you guessing and his everlasting rosy cheeks would warm your heart.

Alvin is survived by his loving wife Toby (Grossman) Kornfeld; son, Brian Kornfeld (life-long companion Tammee Abramsky) of Islandia, N.Y.; and three daughters, Lisa Sclar (Doug) of Succasunna; Cheryl Conway (Todd) of Flanders; Randi Beck (Steve) of Califon; and nine grandchildren: Scott, Rachel and Ryan Sclar; and Griffin, Jonah, Skylar, Molly, Eli and Devin Conway. 

Alvin was predeceased by his brother, Steven Kornfeld.  

Graveside services were privately held Monday, Jan. 11, at Cedar Park Cemetery, Paramus, N.J.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Chabad of Northwest N.J.-Western Region in Flanders. Please send donations in memory of Alvin S. Kornfeld to mychabadcenter.com/donate.

Local and County News

Donate Food Next Saturday

Donate Food Next Saturday

Local Expert Offers Clear Info on COVID-19 Vaccines


By Marlaina Cockcroft


There’s a lot of information out there about the COVID-19 vaccines, and Dr. Sean O’Connell of Mt. Olive, wants to help others understand it.

His virtual presentation, COVID-19 Vaccines and Treatments: Making Sense of It All, is set for Feb. 10, at 7 p.m. The Mount Olive Democrats are hosting this free presentation.

O’Connell, who is founder and president of medical consulting firm O’Connell Consultants, says he wants to provide “useful and clear information. We’ve gone through a very difficult time, and this pandemic is the worst we’ve seen since 1918-1919.”

He will be talking about the available and upcoming vaccines, how they work, how they were tested and the current status of the vaccination effort.

“We’re learning something every day about COVID,” says O’Connell. It’s still got more surprises. You can easily get overwhelmed with a flood of information, so we want to make sure we don’t do that.”  

O’Connell, whose background is in immunology, cell biology, regenerative medicine and tissue repair is an adjunct professor in the Department of Vascular Surgery, Englewood Hospital and Medical Center. He’s also chief science officer at Aegle Research Company, which is developing its own vaccine, though he says it won’t be on the market for a while.

He noted that “vaccines have evolved tremendously over the last 10 years.” In the presentation, he will describe “previous-generation vaccines and how these new vaccines, that were developed seemingly overnight for COVID, differ and why they are not rushed, why they are actually the product of years of development and why they represent such a radical improvement in the way that we can make vaccines against serious respiratory viruses that give rise to epidemics and pandemics.”

O’Connell acknowledged the difficulties with the rollout of the vaccine, especially after the federal guidelines changed on who could get the vaccine next.

“The system that was going to be more of a gradual rollout is now going to be a pretty heavy rollout,” he says. “The fact of the matter is, at the moment we just don’t have the doses.”

He says there are two schools of thought on this: One, make sure people can get the two doses necessary for full protection; or two, release all the doses now so as many people as possible can get the first dose while increasing production so that the second dose will be available. There are pros and cons to both approaches, he says.

The two vaccines approved so far, from Pfizer and Moderna, will offer about 50 percent coverage after the first dose.

“Coupled with the fact that we have some very fast-moving new strains of the virus, the question is just how much of a bulwark against new infection is that going to be,” he says. “Is that going to really level the curve? It’s an open question, and I certainly don’t have the answer to that.”

He will also talk about the side effects of the vaccines, “because that’s a big issue.” He’s seen the growth of the anti-vaccine movement in the last five years, and “for people like myself, this is extremely disturbing.” He called the movement “a threat to everybody.”

O’Connell wants people to understand the true side effects of these vaccines and how they compare to previous vaccinations.

“The answer is, better than some, not so good as others,” he says. “But this should not deter people from getting vaccinated as soon as they have the chance.”

He said he’d seen one piece of disinformation the other day on Instagram: “A nurse got her vaccine, and her face melted.” He added, “My grandniece said she wasn’t going to take the vaccine, I said, ‘You’re foolish.’”

According to O’Connell, historical vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) or flu shots, can cause severe adverse or allergic reactions such as anaphylactic shock in around one in a million doses. With the Pfizer and Moderna vaccinations so far, it happens somewhere around 1 in 200,000. He says the people administering the vaccine must be aware of the possibility, and if someone is prone to allergic reactions, such as bee stings or to peanuts, “the prudent thing is, tell them before you get your vaccine and make sure that they are equipped to handle those reactions and that they watch you for 30 minutes as opposed to 15, as per the most recent guidelines.” More standard reactions, such as headache or pain at the injection site, don’t require medical intervention.  He doesn’t recommend anyone refuse the vaccine, even if they’ve already had COVID.

Though O’Connell praised the development of the vaccines so far, he says of the vaccine distribution, “I wish there had been more coordination and not leaving it up to the states. There are vaccines, and there’s vaccinations, and those are two very different things. We’ve done very good on the vaccines, much better than hoped for. We haven’t done so good on vaccinations.” He’s hopeful that that will improve.  

Check out his free presentation. Go to mountolivedemocrats.org for Zoom meeting details.

Donate Food Next Saturday

Donate Food Next Saturday

Donate Food Next Saturday

The Mt. Olive Democrats plans to hold its monthly food drive on Saturday, February 6 from 10 a.m. to noon at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake. Please bring non-perishable food, personal hygiene items, paper goods and detergent.
All donations will go to the Mt. Olive Food Pantry and Abiding Peace Lutheran Church food pantry, both in Budd Lake. Please stop by, drop off a donation and say hello! Donations are welcome from everyone.
If unable to come by on February 6 but have items to donate, Mt. Olive Democrat volunteers will be happy to pick up either that Thursday or Friday morning. Email andyjmeissner@yahoo.com to schedule a contact-free pick up of your donation. 

LEGAL NOTICE

Donate Food Next Saturday

LEGAL NOTICE

TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Trustees of the Free Public Library of the Township of Mount Olive hereby designates the regular meeting dates for 2021 shall be as follows.  The meetings will be held at the Mt. Olive Township Public Library, 202 Flanders–Drakestown Road, Flanders, NJ.  All meetings will take place at 6:30 pm (unless stated differently).

February 12, 2021

March 16, 2021

April 12 2021

May 11, 2021

June 15, 2021

July 13, 2021

August 10, 2021

September 14, 2021

October 12, 2021

November 16, 2021

December 14, 2021

January 11, 2022 (Reorganization meeting at 6 p.m.)

January 11, 2022

LEGAL NOTICE

County Board Unveils Capital Spending Details


The Morris County Board of County Commissioners unveiled a capital spending recently that continues to improve public safety and support law enforcement, while aggressively improving the county road and bridge infrastructure, education, technology, county facilities, recreation and culture.

To take advantage of favorable interest rates available in 2020, Morris County expedited the 9-11 Communications Center upgrades that were initially part of the 2021 capital spending plan, pushing the critical project underway early.  The board’s Capital Budget Committee, which includes Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw, Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo and Commissioner Tayfun Selen, outlined the $24.1 million spending plan during a work session held via Webex.

“This capital plan addresses the county’s need to maintain and improve infrastructure and county facilities as we work to maintain the quality of services residents of Morris County enjoy,” says Shaw. “Yet it recognizes the financial realities imposed by the continuing pandemic, and our need to be very, very responsible with the tax dollars we commit to any project.”

The 2021 Capital Budget Highlights include:

Infrastructure:

$9.5 million for 28 miles of road resurfacing in 19 municipalities

$4.9 million for 9 bridge and culvert projects

$1.97 million for improvements to intersections and roadways

Public Safety

$606,000 for upgrades and equipment for the Sheriff’s Office

$450,000 for Office of Emergency Management medical/emergency response vehicles

$98,000 for personal protection equipment and facility upgrades to the Fire & Police Academy

$995,000 in fire alarm and sprinkler upgrades to county facilities

“Important to note is this plan does not reflect the $23 million the board approved last month to upgrade and double the operating capacity of our emergency radio network and infrastructure,” says Mastrangelo. “We could not wait to act because we needed to take advantage of the lower interest rates available for the bonding that will be necessary.

“It is a critical project because most Morris County law enforcement, emergency management, and municipal first responders rely on this system every day. But we also needed to be fiscally responsible about it and seize an opportunity to save taxpayer dollars.”

Other 2021 Capital Spending Highlights Include:

Facilities and Technology:

$7.5 million in upgrades to county buildings, utilities and vehicles.

$802,000 to information and technology improvements

Recreational/Cultural

$1.4 million for Morris County Park Commission projects and equipment replacement

Education

$125,000 to upgrade science labs at Morris County Vocational School

$3.8 million to County College of Morris to improve accessibility, improve roads and walkways, address water infiltration issues and modify buildings

“We talk a lot about the great quality of life found in Morris County because it’s a fact, and our capital plan focuses heavily on maintaining it,” says Selen. “We have the best park system in the state and our educational facilities consistently rank among the top.  It’s why people and businesses relocate here, and why people raise their families here and continue to stay into their retirement.”

The $24.1 million plan reflects a commitment of $34.4 million by the county, which will be offset by an anticipated $10.3 million in grants, particularly state grants for road and bridge improvements.

Morris County government has a massive and diverse inventory of responsibility, ranging from the Morris County Administration Building in Morristown, to Human Services and Law & Public Safety complexes in Morris Township and Parsippany.  The infrastructure includes:

20,197 acres of Parkland

287 miles of county roads in all 39 Morris County municipalities

1,000 bridges and culverts throughout all Morris County municipalities

3 Freight Railroads

3.3 million square feet of buildings and structures

Facilities required by the Judiciary, Sheriff, Law and Public Safety

The County of Morris also is responsible for:

Maintaining all trees within county road rights-of-way;

Mosquito Control services throughout all Morris County;

1,185 vehicles and or pieces of equipment used by various county agencies.

Arc of Warren County Awarded Grant For Generator


The Arc of Warren County has been awarded a grant in the sum of $10,450 from The John A. & Margaret Post Foundation for the cost of a power generator for the organization’s group home in Phillipsburg.

“This grant from The John A. & Margaret Post Foundation makes a strong positive impact in the operations of the agency,” says John Whitehead, CEO of The Arc of Warren County.  “This is an expense that cannot be absorbed by the agency and will enable the individuals who live in that home to maintain consistency during a power outage.  Many of our residents find it very frightening and disruptive when they need to relocate due to power loss even if it is for a short period of time.  These situations are a financial burden for the agency as these incidences cost additional funds for food, transportation and salaries.”

The project will start immediately and will be completed within four months.  On average, the agency needs to relocate residents one to three times per year as snowstorms and thunderstorms routinely cause a loss of power in the rural areas of Warren County.  The State of New Jersey mandates that relocation is necessary in extreme cold or hot temperatures, so this will sometimes cause travel for the most vulnerable of The Arc of Warren County’s residents in treacherous weather and road conditions causing serious hardship for the agency.  As a result of the limited hotel options in the immediate area, sometimes staff and residents need to take up temporary occupancy up to 20 to 30 miles away from their homes.

This is the second instance that The Arc of Warren County received a grant from The John A. & Margaret Post Foundation in recent years.  In 2019, The Arc of Warren County was awarded a grant for the cost of generators that were installed in the organization’s group homes in Belvidere and Alpha.

“The John A. & Margaret Post Foundation has afforded us peace of mind, which is worth its weight in gold,” says Whitehead.  “The entire Arc of Warren County community is forever grateful that The John A. & Margaret Post Foundation has provided us with the beneficial opportunity to better serve our constituents.”

The John A. and Margaret Post Foundation supports charitable organizations that benefit the quality of life for families and society in general with a primary focus on organizations in northwest New Jersey and northeast Pennsylvania.

The Arc is a national organization that serves individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their family members since 1950.  The Arc of Warren County is one of 700 chapters of The Arc and serves more than 1,100 people annually for the past 66 years.  Programs include residential group homes and supervised apartments, day services, community-based supports, advocacy services, recreation and summer camp, Special Olympics training, early intervention and a wide variety of additional social services.





Library Goes Virtual For Kids

Virtual Storytime: 


Do your kids miss Storytime and coming to the library? Tune in Monday through Friday to see all of the Children's Room Librarians reading stories on Facebook and Instagram. 





Library Open For Curbside Pickup 


The Mt. Olive Public Library is open for curbside pickup.

Requests can only be made via phone call or email.

There is a limit of six items for adults and eight for kids and young adults.

Patrons will be called once their items are available for pickup.

Bags will be placed outside of the library, marked with the last four digits of the patrons card number

Due to COVID-19, patrons may not enter library.

No books will be left outside the building after curbside hours.

Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Thursday: 4 p.m.-8 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Closed on Sunday.

For questions email: curbside@mopl.org; call 973-691-8686  ext.106.



College NEWS

CCM Fine Arts Professor Exhibit’s Work

CCM Fine Arts Professor Exhibit’s Work

CCM Fine Arts Professor Exhibit’s Work

Enjoy a break from the cold and gray of winter with the vibrant colors of nature as expressed in the paintings of nationally recognized artist Todd L. W. Doney, professor of fine arts at County College of Morris in Randolph.

Twenty of Doney’s recent works are being featured in a solo exhibit at the Broadfoot and Broadfoot LLC gallery, Boonton and can be viewed by appointment and online by visiting www.broadfootandbroadfoot.com. The exhibit runs until February 28. Highlighted are colorful portrayals of nature from rivers to trees, many of which were inspired by the setting surrounding Doney’s home near the Great Swamp.




CCM Fine Arts Professor Exhibit’s Work

CCM Fine Arts Professor Exhibit’s Work

 A community college graduate, Doney is widely known for his vivid Neo-Impressionistic paintings. His work has been displayed in numerous exhibitions, including solo exhibits at the Morris Museum in Morristown, the Gallery MacEgan in Morristown, the College of Saint Elizabeth in Morristown and New Jersey City University in Jersey City. Doney also exhibits his work at Paderewski Fine Art, Beaver Creek, CO and The Sportsman’s Gallery, Ltd., Charleston, SC. In addition, his work has been displayed at Drumthwacket, the governor’s mansion, the Mansion in May at Blairsden estate in Peapack-Gladstone and the Splendor in September designer showcase at the Tyvan Hill mansion in New Vernon. His works are included in public and private collections worldwide. 

CCM Fine Arts Professor Exhibit’s Work

Centenary Inaugurates 14th President Virtually

 Doney earned his Associate in Arts from the American Academy of Art, his Bachelor of Arts from Thomas Edison State College and his MFA from New Jersey City University. For more information on his work, visit www.todddoney.com.For more information on the Art and Design programs at CCM, visit http://tinyurl.com/yc4pfzef/. 

Centenary Inaugurates 14th President Virtually

Centenary Inaugurates 14th President Virtually

Centenary Inaugurates 14th President Virtually

Unconventional presidential inaugurations are nothing new to Dr. Bruce Murphy, who was officially inaugurated Thursday, Jan. 28, as the 14th president of Centenary University in Hackettstown in a ceremony held virtually due to the ongoing pandemic. In 1984-85, Murphy, who was then serving with the U.S. Army, was on the inaugural committee for President Ronald Reagan.

Prior to President Reagan’s inauguration for a second term, weather reports predicted that an Arctic blast could bring wind chills of 20 degrees below zero to Washington, DC—potentially dangerous conditions for a ceremony traditionally held outside on the steps of the Capitol. Two days before the event, Murphy’s team contacted the Army’s Northern Warfare Center in Alaska, which determined that the severe weather could cause casualties.

“With one day’s notice, we moved the inauguration indoors to the Capitol Rotunda,” Murphy, a retired lieutenant colonel, recalled during his inaugural address yesterday. In planning his own inauguration, which he had originally hoped would be in person, he reflected on President Reagan accepting the change in order to save lives. Then, he thought about the Centenary University Class of 2020 and their parents, who had a virtual commencement to help save lives in the midst of the pandemic.

“How could I do anything less for my own inauguration?”  Murphy said in his address.

Murphy assumed the presidency of Centenary University on Jan. 1. 2020, less than 60 days before the pandemic halted in-person instruction on the nation’s college campuses. Top priorities during his tumultuous first year were ensuring that Centenary students not miss a day of instruction during the pandemic and the return of in-person classes for the fall semester. A new program called Centenary Choice now gives students the option of attending classes fully in-person, online, or in a HyFlex format combining the two. Thanks to stringent COVID-19 mitigation efforts, the University completed in-person instruction, as planned, on Nov. 24, and has now started the spring semester under the Centenary Choice model.

Noting these successes in his inaugural address, Murphy thanked Centenary faculty and staff for going above and beyond: “These efforts allowed us to keep our team intact, without furloughs, without pay cuts, and without layoffs. Through it all, we have continued to do the business of the university.”



Centenary Inaugurates 14th President Virtually

Other accomplishments during Murphy’s first year at Centenary include advancing a new strategic plan to establish the university as the intellectual, economic, and cultural heart of the Skylands region, as well as several new academic programs, partnerships with other institutions of higher learning, and a Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging Advisory Board at Centenary: “In short, my vision for the university is the encouragement of a more collaborative, supportive, forward-thinking, and strategic community that embraces lifelong learning, greater access to higher education, and pathways to career opportunity.” 

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy headlined a host of dignitaries providing video addresses for the inauguration. “Leading an institution of higher education comes with its own set of challenges, but no one anticipated the unprecedented challenges that presented themselves almost immediately upon your tenure. What a way to start!” said the governor, who has no relation to Murphy. “With your lifelong love of learning and understanding of the power education holds to change the course of a person’s life, we wholeheartedly welcome you to our New Jersey family. From one Murphy to another, we’re proud to have you with us and Centenary University is lucky to have you.”

Other speakers included many of the state’s university presidents, as well as representatives of Centenary’s Board of Trustees, faculty, students, and alumni, and Murphy’s family, including his wife, Jeanne, and daughter Alondra Murphy Howard. His mentor, Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., chancellor of Troy University, noted, “The shadow of an institution never exceeds the shadow of its leader. For all in attendance today, rest assured that Centenary has appointed a transformational leader who casts a long shadow…I have no doubt that under Bruce Murphy, Centenary’s brightest days are ahead.”

Murphy ended his inaugural remarks echoing President George Washington on his inauguration day, when he eschewed a military escort to walk to the ceremony in New York City. Thanking those who have supported him, Murphy said, “In closing, I say to you, with the goodwill of the Centenary community and the loving support of so many of you—friends, family, colleagues, and mentors—I certainly need no finer escort as we start the journey together.” 

What Do You Need To Let Go Of To Move Forward?

Submitted by Diane Lang, positive living expert, life coach, speaker.

 

What do you need to let go of to move forward?

Negative beliefs.

Negative people.

Negative habits and patterns that you repeat daily that don’t help you move forward.

Unhealthy food and drinks.

Negative media/social media.

Releasing addiction to technology.

Googling creates instant gratification.

Social media creates comparison.

All the filler activities that keep you numb.

All the emotions you're holding on to and internalizing but haven’t dealt with yet.

The past that keeps you stuck from moving forward.

The fear that paralyzes you.

The craving of things that keep you overstimulated, take away your imagination and ability to critically think.

Less of anything that doesn't feel good and more of what makes you feel complete and in peace.

More of....

Reading that cultivates imagination.

Learning that cultivates critical thinking.

Nature which produces mindfulness, peace and calm.

Socialization that brings connection, community and support.

Which do you choose?


For more information visit: www.dlcounseling.com or email Diane Lang at DLCounseling2014@gmail.com.

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