MO ONLINE 10-23-2021

Mt. Olive Online Publication April 16, 2025

Spaldo Brings Energy & Positive Ideas To Council Race

By Cheryl Conway

Call on Nicole Spaldo for AAA service to fix the township’s flaws.

She stands by her platform: Accessibility, Accountability and Activity.

“A town council and its town should be accessible, accountable and active,” says Spaldo who is running for Mt. Olive Twp. Council in the upcoming Nov. 2 general election.

Spaldo, 35, is one of four Democrats vying to fill four seats on the Mt. Olive Twp. Council. They face four Republican incumbents whose terms expire at the end of this year.

A wife, a mother of two, and an occupational therapist, Spaldo wants to bring her energy and creativity to help improve the township.

As a Flanders resident for nine years and member of Mt. Olive Democrats since 2017, Spaldo decided in late January to run for council.

“I think I have a lot of energy and positive ideas to help shape involvement in the community and engage a broader range of people in local government,” says Spaldo.

Personal Background

As an occupational therapist, Spaldo is currently employed at Andover Regional School District. She has worked for Atlantic Health Home Care, VNA, Kessler, and various private and public schools.

She earned a master’s degree in occupational therapy from University of Scranton in Scranton, Pa.

Her husband is a District Leader with Mt. Olive Democrats and they have a seven-year-old and a one year old.

When she is not working, Spaldo enjoys volunteering her time to help the township and others.

“I am a Girl Scout leader,” says Spaldo. “I am cookie manager for our service unit.”

She appreciates the proximity of the school and stores to her home.

“I love being able to walk my daughter to school and to the grocery store,” says Spaldo.

She has taken an interest in cleaning up the town and connecting people to share amongst each other.

“I started and administrate the Buy Nothing Project in Mt. Olive,” a global initiative featured on a Facebook group page in which people “can gift others with their once loved treasures and ask for little or big things they need,” she says.

“I also initiated Mt. Olive Cleans Up! last October 2020,” she says. “We meet once per month to clean up an area of town that needs more attention. We have done Turkey Brook two times, Gold Mine Rd., the school playgrounds, and the Budd Lake Beach parking lot.”

She is also a member of Kiwanis and “would love to see the development of a volunteer corps to match people's needs to available help in the community.”

As a member of Mt. Olive Democrats, Spaldo has been a district leader since 2018. She helps with mailings, food drives and outreach.

What experience or skills do you bring to the council?

In her first time running for council, Spaldo responds: “I’m a critical thinker. I always strive to think outside of the box and, as a mother and full-time employee, I’ve shown I can successfully serve several different roles well. I want to see more women empowered to be involved in local government”

What are the most concerning issues?

“Water runoff - algae growth in the streets as well as the lake; litter; inaccessible shopping areas and shopping areas which are not maintained which does not promote business growth,” are some of her greatest concerns.

“A current lack of accessibility of town services to persons of all socioeconomic status,” is another of her concerns.

As far as the most concerning issues among Mt. Olive residents, Spaldo answers: “Accessibility for engagement and involvement with the town government, a lack of transparency and communication on behalf of the town elected officials.”

To help alleviate or improve some of those issues in town, Spaldo says that as a councilmember she would, “Make meeting agendas and minutes more accessible with hyperlinks to ordinances and more detailed explanations of discussion, improving engagement with virtual town council meetings, and more frequent town hall meetings which invite large scale discussion.”

The slogan she uses to best represent her candidacy is by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: “Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it; Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”

Why should residents vote for Nicole Spaldo?

“I am already incredibly active and engaged with the town,” says Spaldo. “I stand up for what I believe in, including the right to set boundaries and promote positive societal interactions instead of divisiveness. People should vote for me if they are more interested in having a town council that residents can be engaged with instead of one that makes all of the decisions without input.”

If elected as the sole Democrat among a council that currently sits all republicans and just one female, Spaldo will not be intimidated by the challenge.

“I am unequivocally an equal to any other person sitting on the current town council in regards to education, practical, applicable experience and dedication,” says Spaldo. “If elected to the town council, my political party and gender will absolutely not impact my advocacy for the residents of this town.

“Political parties should have no place in local elections,” she adds. “I firmly believe that town council should be about people not party and we would do ourselves a service to move away from this bipartisan model and elect candidates that are actively engaged and dedicated to the betterment of the town.”

This is a paid advertisement by Mt. Olive Democrats.

Veterans Memorial Plants Seeds For Spring Garden

By Cheryl Conway

From its Global War On Terror Memorial Bridge, Warrior Monument, War Dog Memorial and other elements, the All Veterans Memorial will soon be complete with a designated place to pray.

Its newest addition planned for next spring is the Prayer Garden, to be situated at the AVM right next to the North Star Seating Area. Formal plans, details, sponsors and fundraising are still being sought.

As a memorial site for military ceremonies and vigils to remember veterans and pay respect to those who honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces, the AVM’s Prayer Garden will be an inviting area for visitors to quietly reflect, pray and gain some peace.

“It will be one of the most important elements at the AVM – as, it will be used by our visitors to pray, reflect or to capture a peaceful moment in their day,” explains AVM Founder Charlie Uhrmann.

“It will also play a major role during our Honorable Service Ceremonies,” she says. “These ceremonies are held to acknowledge and honor the service of a warrior who lost their lives in battle. The Pray Garden will serve as a prayer/ counseling area for clergy and family members before and/or after the ceremony.”

While the AVM’s roots date back 17 years, the Prayer Garden has always been one of its seeds.

“The Prayer Garden has always been part of the overall master plan,” says Uhrmann. “With the exception of minor additions, it marks the final phase of the AVM.

“The overall design for the Pray Garden has existed for several years now,” she says. “However, the intricate details and sponsors and fundraising efforts are currently in the works.” The Pray Garden is expected to be completed by May 25, 2022.

Garden Details
The Pray Garden will be an extension of the NorthStar Seating Area, explains Uhrmann.

“We will branch off from the existing walkway to lead into the Pray Garden,” she says. “This walkway is being funded by Project Help in memory of CPL Hayden Harris, an Army veteran who was killed in December of 2020.

“The garden will extend outwardly from the NorthStar Seating Area to encompass the beautiful Kwanzan Cherry Tree and Charles Johnson Gazebo,” she says. “The perimeter of the garden will consist of soft flowing grasses atop a natural berm. This will provide a sense of peacefulness and privacy. An archway at the end of the walkway will lead you into the garden. Benches will be strategically placed to accommodate multiple visitors and privacy. The gazebo will be refurbished and landscaped.”

According to Uhrmann, “The Prayer Garden will consist of discreet interactive, healing elements. Similar to other faith-based elements at the AVM, the Prayer Garden is all inclusive, non-denominational.

“Faith plays a major role in the healing process,” she explains. “We exist to remember and honor those who served our great nation, their life and honorable service. Though those who gave the ultimate sacrifice are no longer with us here on Earth, their beloved families and friends are. It is our duty as direct recipients of this sacrifice and as a nation to revere their service and comfort those they left behind. Regardless of faith, nothing is more healing than to spend a moment of silence in a place created for the spiritually wounded.”

Prayer Garden Will Bloom In Spring

A dedication for the AVM’s next element is set for Sunday, May 29, 2022 at 10:30 a.m.

"We will begin the dedication by holding a spiritual service delivered by a military clergy,” explains Uhrmann. As part of the service, families will be given an opportunity to set Honorable Service Pavers into the Path To Enduring Freedom walkway.

Immediately following the dedication, the AVM plans to host a barbeque gathering.

"As part of our celebration, we will be inviting all of our sponsors and volunteers to this event,” says Uhrmann. “This is a perfect opportunity for our local and surrounding communities to gather and meet those remarkable people who were instrumental in demonstrating the People’s Will.” Uhrmann’s hope for the Prayer Garden is to provide a place for visitors to connect with their spirit and emotions.

“While planning the memorial service for the 13 warriors who lost their lives in Kabul, we agreed to deliver 13 folded American Flags onto the main complex in their honor,” explains Uhrmann. “As I began setting up the planks for the memorial platform, I realized that I had inadvertently set them up at the NorthStar Seating Area, as if that is exactly where they needed to be. Countless people have shared the calming feeling they experience whenever they visit the AVM. So many have expressed a sense of spirituality. We believe the Pray Garden will further connect our visitors with their own greater sense of self and being.”

Volunteers Sought

As part of the AVM’s final phase, Uhrmann says “we will be seeking volunteers to help us rejuvenate the entire complex. Organizations will be asked to adopt a specific element to weed, edge, clean, reseal and perhaps paint. Volunteer opportunities will run for two weeks, beginning the first week of May through the third week of May.”

As a non-profit organization, the AVM has grown through the years thanks to the support of the community and its volunteers.

“We have been embracing community involvement and support for upwards of 17 years now,” Uhrmann concludes.“

A garden requires patient labor and attention. Plants do not grow merely to satisfy ambitions or to fulfill good intentions. They thrive because someone expended effort on them.” Liberty Hyde Bailey

BOE Members Speak Out: Lack of School Aides & Harassment

By Cheryl Conway

Like marshmallows in Lucky Charms cereal, there seems to be a shortage in not only school bus drivers but also school aides.

Mt. Olive Township Board of Education Member Anthony Strillacci raised the issue in the last BOE meeting held Monday, Oct. 11. He has asked school officials to question why the shortage and requested that more aides be hired to help at the elementary schools in the Mt. Olive School District.

Strillacci, who is running for re-election for a three-year term in the upcoming school race, recently visited two of the four elementary schools and saw first- hand how the lack of an aide can affect a classroom.

“We just don’t have enough aides,” says Strillacci. “We hire four part-time aides, one for each school. Nine aides for 17 classrooms, it’s just impossible.”

There are three or four kindergarten classes per school and “20 plus five-year old's running around,” he says.

“We spend a lot of money in a lot of places,” says Strillacci. “The best place to spend it is in the classroom.

Strillacci’s idea is to bring on more part-time aides to work 29 hours per week.

With a $22,500 salary offered to each, Strillacci says MOSD can allocate $87K for four aides.

Aides are beneficial to have in the classroom if there is a child who has to use the restroom, or if a student is ill and needs to go to the nurse’s office, he says.

“You see that teacher in there for seven hours with those students; that person is just haggard doing everything and educating those students,” says Strillacci.

He suggests to the BOE members that they relook at the issue and request Mt. Olive Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Zywicki to advertise for more school aides.

Zywicki says he will bring up Strillacci’s suggestion for more aides at the next Personnel Committee meeting.

He also explains why the shortage of aides.

Entitlements from the government have encouraged many adults to stay home with their loved ones and still maintain a similar amount of money in their bank accounts, explains Zywicki.

Another reason is from “coming off pandemic’, it’s hard working in schools,” says Zywicki.

A third reason is a good number of aides have reached their tenth year working in the schools, just in time for their pensions to be vested.

BOE member Christopher Zeier noted that MOSD is not alone in shortages.

“This is all over,” says Zeier. “Workforce issues are a big problem.”

Other News

BOE Members Liz Ouimet and Dr. Antoine Gayles spoke out at the end of the meeting about harassment toward them as candidates in upcoming elections.

Ouimet, who is running as an incumbent for a three-year term on the BOE, shares that on Sept. 23 a constituent filed multiple OPRA (New Jersey Open Public Records Act) impersonating her.

She says an individual created one email address in her name, impersonating her, with eight OPRA requests looking for information about her.

"This harassment is ongoing,” says Ouimet, “as retaliation or intimidation as we head into the election.” Ouimet, meanwhile, has informed the BOE attorney as well at the Morris County Prosecutors Office to open an investigation into this harassment. “There is someone using my name in email requesting information about me,” says Ouimet. They are fraudulently using lizouimet123@yahoo.com to request information, monitor her bank account, credit card accounts for suspicious activity.

Ouimet will not stand for “dirty politics,” she says, to tarnish her reputation and “intimidate me; cause harm to her and her family. Ouimet says it is targeted harassment against women with opposing views and different beliefs.

"I’ve been an elected official in Mt. Olive for 12 years on school board and three years as school board president.” Ouimet says, “As our society becomes entrenched in an online world allowing this type of behavior to slide as dirty politics against an elected official would be unacceptable as it would only promote and inspire other rogue individuals to participate in this type of targeted harassment and have the capability disturbing the fabric of our society on any day at any time from anywhere.”

Gayles, who is running for Mt. Olive Town Council, is also a victim of being harassed by an individual searching him through OPRA requests.

He calls it a “political witch hunt.” The scandal implies “that he used his influence” as a BOE member to provide favor for certain members of the community, explains Gayles.

This accusation “it is an affront to my integrity,” says Gayles. “My commitment to this community and this board is solid,” affirms Gayles. “Happy hunting to these individuals,” concludes Gayles.

Mt. Olive Food Pantry Stomps Out Hunger, Gives Hope

By Dawn M. Chiossi

Feed the hungry: It’s as primary as A, B, C. Yet a staggering 1 in 10 people in New Jersey suffer from food insecurity.

It’s a unifying issue that everyone can relate to: Falling on hard times, trying to make paychecks stretch and struggling to put food on the table. Many go without meals to cover bills. Hunger now is more than a lament for a midnight snack; it’s wondering where the next meal will come from. Hunger affects everyone in every community.

The Mount Olive Food Pantry not only aspires to nourish people’s bodies, but also their spirits.

Made up of caring volunteers that hold a deep belief that no one should ever go to bed hungry, The Mount Olive Food Pantry seeks to help make a dent in hunger for the hardworking families in Mount Olive. Located at 6 Naughright Rd. in Hackettstown, the Mount Olive Food Pantry is open twice a week and two additional nights each month. Hours are the second and fourth Monday of each month from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., every Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. to noon, and every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Mount Olive Food Pantry had its beginnings as a small office in the municipal building. Knowing that it takes a village to make a difference, the Mount Olive Food Pantry resulted from the diligence and devotion of many: From Mayor Rob Greenbaum, who in 2013 wanted to expand the pantry’s services, to Pastor Matthew Jones and Reverend Sonia Waters, who visited several pantries to observe their operations and format and brought it to Mt. Olive. In 2014 the Mount Olive Food Pantry was privatized under Partners in Compassion Inc., a charitable 501(C3) organization. Partners in Caring Inc. is a partnership of religious, private, and public institutions and individuals.

When administrator Susan Morse began in 2014, she quickly realized that the Food Pantry was much more than a place where people went to get food.

“In addition to feeding people, we are also giving them a sense of hope,” Morse says.

Although it was initially just for families and people who live and work in Mt. Olive, according to Morse, the food pantry is extended to anyone who needs help. She only had to look at these unprecedented times regarding COVID to bend the rule.

“It really opened my eyes,” she remarks. “Anyone who comes to the door, we will help.”

Seeking to give people nourishing food that can be put together for a meal, the Food Pantry takes non-perishable donations at any time. It strives to keep essential mainstay items in stock. These include canned vegetables, canned meats (like tuna or chicken), canned meals, canned or dried beans, jarred sauces, gravy, pasta, rice dishes, soup, broths, peanut butter, jelly, coffee, tea, powdered creamer, shelf, and condensed milk, sweeteners, cereals, pancake mix, condiments, dressings, beverages, syrup, oils, vinegar, crackers, baking products, even paper products and cat and dog food.

The food pantry also accepts personal care items and laundry detergent. Just pop them in the drop box at the pantry’s entrance. It is asked that people give family-sized items in the original packaging. Please no industrial-sized items.

Also, please watch the temperatures when dropping off food. Temperatures that are too hot, humid, or too cold can spoil or freeze food, making it dangerous for human consumption. In such a case, the food will have to be thrown away. This goes for expired food as well, so watch those freshness dates.

The Mount Olive Food Pantry will accept perishable food as well. For specific information, rules, and details on that, just call the office at 862-251-3938.

The food pantry also accepts grocery store cards and cash donations to purchase the food that can make a complete meal: meat, dairy, and fresh produce.

Mt. Olive eagerly does their part to pitch in. Many community fundraisers and food drives benefit the food pantry, and Morse is thankful for their caring and community spirit.

Recently, on October 10, there was a benefit concert featuring the Stonehearth Bluegrass Band held at the Mt. Olive Senior Center. According to Morse, it “went well.”

In September, the Mt. Olive Police Department and @Mohskeyclub21 organized a successful food drive at Shop Rite to benefit the Mount Olive Food Pantry.

Then there was the Cram The Cruiser Food Drive.

Coming up in November, businesses and the community organize a collection of food for the food pantry.

Helping isn’t just limited to adults, either. Many children get involved as well; this includes the various schools, the Boy and Girl Scouts, and many more. According to Morse, children in the summertime even ran a lemonade stand and donated $200 to the food pantry.

There are a plethora of ways for individuals to help. When shopping for the family, why not pick up some extra items for the food pantry? Pick up grocery cards, or even a turkey or ham for the holidays (but please contact the food pantry first), or even lend unique talents by volunteering!

Now that autumn is here, with cooler weather and the holidays approaching, there is even more of a need. Morse is always looking two to three months ahead in regard to feeding people.

“No matter how you choose to help, we are grateful,” Morse enthuses. “I see families, children, adults, seniors, infants…It’s all about meeting the needs of these people. It’s difficult and upsetting to go to a food pantry. It’s our job to make it as easy and as pleasant of an experience for them.”

Morse sees with her own eyes just how emotional people can become when they visit the food pantry for the first time--how anxious they can be at first and relieved once their fears are soothed.

“I remember a time when we were just about to close up when a car drove up to the front door and left,” she explains. “Ten to fifteen minutes later, they were back. Two women who I’ve never seen before came in. They were visibly nervous about being at the pantry. Afterward, one of them started to cry, saying they were so thankful they had come. She told me ‘We didn’t know how we were going to feed our kids tonight.’”

It’s that relief, catharsis, and above all, that hope that Morse and everyone at the Mt. Olive Food Pantry attempt to bring to others,” says Morse. “Beyond the food itself, they attempt to make life just a little brighter for their patrons.

“Helping those in need,” Morse asserts, “That’s what it’s all about.”

For further information or details on the Mount Olive Food Pantry, contact

mountolivepantrynj@gmail.com.

Drop-off Locations

Gold’s Gym

90 Bartley Road, Flanders

973-584-5656

Revolution Fitness

354 US Route 206, Flanders

973-985-5150, Gerard Stefanelli

Optimal Family Chiropractic

22 Plaza Road, Flanders

973-584-4888, Dr. Brenda L. Rooney, D.C.

Dino’s Pizzeria

Village Green, 100 Route 46, Ste. 17, Budd Lake

973-347-7100

Advanced Auto

Village Green, 100 Route 46, Budd Lake

973-440-2052

Ginza (formerly Cheers)

3 Mount Olive Road, Budd Lake

973-949-3117

Uncle Sal’s Pizza

Wild Geese Plaza, 375 US 46, Budd Lake

973-691-0025

Mt. Olive Administration Bldg.

204 Flanders-Drakestown Rd., Budd Lake

RE/MAX Heritage

Sutton Plaza, 293 Route 206, Flanders

973-598-1700, Janen Ardia

Woodfield at Mount Olive

103 Sowers Drive, Hackettstown

Berezny Chiropractic

The Mall at 206, 240 Route 206 South, Flanders

973-252-0040, Dr. John Berezny

Flanders Cleaners

Sutton Plaza, 293 Route 206, Flanders

973-584-2288

Adam’s Family Restaurant

41 Route 46, Budd Lake

973-691-2222

Bob Scirocco, Esq.

98 Route 46, Suite 6, Budd Lake

973-691-1188

SDK The Village Green

74 Village Way, Budd Lake

(855) 976-5086

Mt. Olive Food Pantry

Christ Episcopal Church

369 Sand Shore Road, Budd Lake

Ginette's Deli

1 Old Wolf Road, Budd Lake

862-254-2154

Local and County News

Campaign Event for Early Voting and Council Candidates

Letter To The Editor: It's Time to Get it Done Mt. Olive With Gayles, Spaldo, Sharma & Bernstein

For the first time ever, residents can vote Early, In-Person, using Voting Machines at the Municipal Building starting Saturday, Oct. 23 through Sunday, Oct. 31. No need to wait until election day!

The hours are Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.- 8 p.m.; and Sunday from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.

To promote this, the Mt. Olive Democrats are holding Early Voting Kickoff Crawls through a few neighborhoods.

“We'll be led by a decorated trailer and you're invited to drive, bike or walk with us as we share the news on Early Voting and encourage people to vote,” says Andy Meissner

Chair of Mt. Olive Democrats. “We'll have signs and cards to hand out. No door knocking - just good outdoor fun.”

Here's the schedule:

Saturday 10/23: 10:30 a.m., Kings Village/ Eagle Rock - Kings Village Pool; noon Winding Hill Drive tennis courts.

Sunday 10/24: noon, Overlook Apartments clubhouse; 1:30 p.m.- Village Green - Sandi's Liquors parking lot.

“Come by to say hello at the start, and please join us for our "crawl" if you are able,” says Meissner.

“Most importantly, please spread the word about early voting and our fabulous team of Dr. Antoine Gayles, Nicole Spaldo, Alicia Sharma and Jordan Bernstein.”

Any questions, call Meissner at 973-580-3971.

Click here to sign up to receive additional details! See you there.

https://forms.gle/GJbu1ybMjDyKULtf6

Letter To The Editor: It's Time to Get it Done Mt. Olive With Gayles, Spaldo, Sharma & Bernstein

I support Dr. Antoine Gayles, Nicole Spaldo, Alicia Sharma and Jordan Bernstein for Town Council. These outstanding candidates have stepped up to address long-standing issues and represent all of Mt. Olive.

The incumbents have not revitalized our town, restored Budd Lake and the beach, brought a supermarket to Budd Lake, enhanced pedestrian safety or beautified the town. It’s time to get it done.

Some incumbents have poor attendance records, missing as many as 28% of their meetings. Many committees do not provide information for public participation or post minutes. Some don’t meet at all. The attendance and actions of these forums needs to be accessible and shared. It’s time to get it done.

The candidates have diverse cultural backgrounds and areas of professional expertise: Dr. Antoine Gayles – Education; Nicole Spaldo – Healthcare; Alicia Sharma – Finance; and Jordan Bernstein -Technology. As a growing, diverse, community Mt. Olive deserves a council that is inclusive and represents all of us. It’s time to get it done.

The team’s community service is demonstrated through Board of Education service, Buy Nothing Mt. Olive sharing group, suicide prevention, clean up events, Scout leadership and volunteering at church. Let’s engage everyone in a spirit of community engagement. It’s time to get it done.

Dr. Antoine Gayles, Nicole Spaldo, Alicia Sharma and Jordan Bernstein love this town and have chosen to raise their families here. Mt. Olive can be even better with a team of new voices with real vision at the table. It’s time to get it done.

Andy Meissner

Chair, Mount Olive Democrats

Mt. Olive, NJ

Library To Host College Workshop

Letter To The Editor: It's Time to Get it Done Mt. Olive With Gayles, Spaldo, Sharma & Bernstein

The Mt. Olive Public Library plans to sponsor a College Funding Workshop, a virtual online webinar, on Tuesday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m.

This complimentary workshop is designed to help families with children of any age figure out how to pay for college without jeopardizing retirement. Presented by Jodi Bloom, founder of Cornerstone College Solutions and College Planning Expert.

Participants must register in advance! Go to www.mopl.org to register.

Sheriff’s Office Sponsors Career Carnival For Kids

Join in on Sunday, Oct. 24, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at Horseshoe Lake in Succasunna, for Career Carnival for Kids, an interactive, fun-filled and free program where elementary and middle school kids can meet volunteers from companies and organizations across a variety of industries, including Goryeb Children's Hospital, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), AWWA NJ, Cerbo Lumber, County College of Morris, M&T Bank, Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph, ShopRite, Weis and more!

The Morris County Sheriff's Office is sponsoring this special event in partnership with the Borough of Roxbury Township and the Roxbury Police Department. In addition, the sheriff is sending four of the county’s top-notch units – K9, Hope One, COPS, and Law Enforcement Exploring – to educate attendees about the important work they do.

Enjoy games, giveaways and other goodies, and spark some curiosity about the amazing world of work. Online registration is encouraged but not required.

Visit www.careercarnivalforkids.com

Church To Host Free Dinner

Outdoor Exercise Classes Offered

The Sky Is The Limit With Mt. Olive Exercisers

Experienced local instructors are on the move in Mt. Olive offering a variety of outdoor fitness classes to keep those bodies in shape this October.

Fall in line with Zumba, Aerobics, Kickbox, Pilates, Yoga, Mt. Olive Walkers, Toning & More….All outdoors in various locations.

$ Most affordable pricing around! $

Email cherylc6@optonline.net for more information and schedule of daily classes.

Church To Host Free Dinner

First Presbyterian Church Of Hackettstown plans to host a free community dinner. on Saturday, Nov. 13, for baked ziti and a garden salad. Dinner will be held at its Chapel – 291 Main Street, Hackettstown. All are welcome to come and enjoy a free meal and fellowship with friends from the community! For more information, go to www.fpchackettstown.org

County Commits $600K to Revive Performing Arts School

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners and the Mayo Performing Arts Center recently announced that Morris County has committed $600,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding to rebuild and re-establish MPAC’s educational programs and renowned Performing Arts School.

MPAC had been serving 40,000 students and families in the region prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. ARPA Funds are aimed to revive pandemic-hit programs.

“The Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted a resolution last week committing $600,000 to bring this important educational activity back to life,” said Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw.

“About 80 percent of the students who benefit annually from MPAC’s education and outreach programs are from right here in Morris County, including the acclaimed ‘Miracle Project,’ which has been opening doors to the creative potential of children with autism and other special needs,” he said.
“The work of MPAC and the Performing Arts School must continue.”

MPAC Performing Arts School student Zion Pearson, 12, of Morristown, performs at the announcement.

The funding grant was outlined during a press conference inside the Starlight Room at MPAC on South Street in Morristown. Shaw was joined by Deputy Commissioner Deborah Smith, Commissioner John Krickus and MPAC representatives, patrons and students.

"Mayo Performing Arts Center thanks the Morris County Commissioners for their generous grant of $600,000 of American Rescue Plan funding for MPAC education programs,” said President & CEO of MPAC Allison Larena. "This funding will help MPAC to recover from devastating financial losses caused by the pandemic, and restore and expand MPAC’s extensive arts education programs, which affect over 40,000 children and their families annually in Morris County and the surrounding region.”

Grab a Slot For a Shot To Fight Against Cancer

Take a shot in the fight against cancer through this annual basketball tournament.
Layups 4 Life invites residents to gather up your friends, family and co-workers to build a team “and take the courts for a great cause.” The tournament is set for Saturday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Parsippany PAL Youth Center in Parsippany.

Since 2014, Layups 4 Life has raised more than $120K for cancer research and clinical trials supporting one of the leaders in cancer research and innovation, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, according to the Layups For Life flyer. Layups 4 Life has grown to be one the largest annual 3v3 charity basketball tournaments in New Jersey. It is led by cancer survivor Dan Exter and his wife, Dana Levine Exter.

Cost per person is $40; Team of three is $120; Team of four is $160. Participants must be 18 years of age and over.

Co-ed teams are invited and are guaranteed to compete in five games. All participants receive a free T-shirt

Deadline to register is Tuesday, Nov. 9, at 11:59 p.m. Tickets are non-refundable and act as a donation to Layups 4 Life's fundraising efforts.

For more information and to register, go to https://www.tickettailor.com/events/layups4life/588378

Arc of Warren County Announces Awards Celebration

Save the date of March 3, 2022! The Arc of Warren County plans to hold The Arc of Warren County Awards Banquet at 6 p.m. at Bello Giorno Estate in Belvidere.

This event will be designed to honor individuals and companies that have made a significant impact to the betterment of The Arc of Warren County in recent years especially during the pandemic. In addition, it will also recognize individuals who have made a positive impact in the community by supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“There are so many people and organizations that have supported The Arc of Warren County in a multitude of ways especially during recent years,” says CEO of The Arc of Warren County John Whitehead. “This is an opportunity to thank them and to encourage community involvement, as well as honor individuals who make a positive impact by serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, in general.”

At this time, the agency is forming a committee for this initiative. If interested in being considered to serve in this capacity, email Annamaria Lalevee at alalevee@arcwarren.org or call (908) 223-0884. Include some information regarding background and experience in the human services industry.

More information will be forthcoming regarding sponsorship opportunities and the cost to participate. To be included on the invitation list, email alalevee@arcwarren.org, as well.

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 67 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.

College & Other News

Centenary Stripes Field Pink For Cancer Awareness

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Centenary University in Hackettstown planned to stipes its field pink at its Pink Out Game for field hockey this Saturday, Oct. 23, at 11 a.m.

In addition to playing on a pink-lined field, Centenary’s field hockey team will sport pink pre-game shirts, socks, and shoelaces in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Head Coach Stephen Speirs has also pledged to dye his hair pink, as well as wear pink socks and a kilt.

Stripe the Field Pink is an initiative by the Centenary University field hockey team to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which runs Oct. 1-31. Cyclones Michaela Thiessen ’23 and Victoria Schirripa ’24 initially proposed the idea, and Head Coach Stephen Speirs then arranged for the field to be striped pink. Centenary is believed to have the only field hockey pitch in the nation that is lined pink.

Thiessen said, “Seeing our field lined pink brought me to tears when I first saw it. I was filled with so much joy to see what our team pushed for so we could stand for a good cause. Our team loves these lines and hope that they can stay forever as a reminder for what we support. We can't stop talking about it.”

Noting that several of his players have been affected by breast cancer through the diagnoses of loved ones, Speirs added, “I am so impressed with our field hockey student-athletes for standing together and requesting that our field hockey lines be painted pink in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A special thank you to Victoria Schirripa for suggesting it, and to Michaela Thiessen for taking the lead on this project and advocating for its completion as soon as possible. Seeing our field lined pink is a clear message to everyone that Centenary University supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month and is ‘Playing For The Cure.’ This visible sign of support for this great cause has touch many beyond our field hockey team. The message is clear as ‘pink.’ Everyone who has seen the pink lines has expressed a heartfelt thank you for our effort and support for the cause.”

CCM Presents Second Annual Heroes & Healers Celebration

Building on the impact of its first Heroes & Healers celebration last year, County College of Morris (CCM) has arranged for a Week of Honor in appreciation of veterans, active military personnel, first responders and healthcare workers for this year’s recognition program.

The Second Annual Heroes & Healers program takes place Monday, Nov. 8 to Sat., Nov. 13. As it did last year, the college will have a drive-through Hill of Honor with signs displaying photos and names of active military, veterans, and first responders and healthcare workers who have served others during the pandemic. That display, near Parking Lot 1 on CCM’s Randolph campus will open on Nov. 8 and be available for viewing through Nov. 13. On Thursday, Nov. 11 at 5 p.m., a Candlelight Ceremony will be held at the Hill of Honor. Then on Nov. 13, the college will hold a recognition ceremony in the Dragonetti Auditorium in the Student Community Center, starting at 10 a.m., that will conclude with a procession to the Hill of Honor. The entire program is free and open to the public.

To reserve a sign with photo on the Hill of Honor, go to http://bookstore.ccm.edu/campus-life-events/.

Heroes & Healers is sponsored by the Student and Veterans Support Organization and CCM’s Departments of Student and Veterans Services, Campus Life, Foundation and Special Events.

CCM Resumes On-Campus Info. Sessions & Tours

County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph once again will be holding on-campus information sessions and campus tours to provide students and their families with the opportunity to learn about the highly ranked education CCM provides to meet educational and career goals.

Each session begins with an interactive presentation by one of the admissions counselors followed by a campus tour. Those attending these sessions are able to explore CCM’s wide range of associate degree, certificate and professional development programs, learn about the college’s support services and co-curricular programs designed to ensure success and discuss the admissions and registration process.

Upcoming sessions are set to take place from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 4, 11, and Dec. 2. Registration is required and is now taking place. To register and reserve a spot, go to https://www.ccm.edu/admissions/visiting-us/.

In addition to on-campus tours, the admissions team has scheduled several virtual information sessions. Those sessions and dates are:

Titan Tuesday Virtual Presentations at 3:30 p.m. on Nov. 23 and Dec. 14;

Counselor Corner Virtual Sessions from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

To take part in one of these sessions, go to http://www.ccm.edu/admissions/visiting-us/.

Mental Health Day

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

Sunday, Oct. 10, was Mental Health Day. This day is a reminder, we should all have an emotional toolbox filled with tools and techniques that help us to self soothe and destress. What does your toolbox look like? If you do not have one, start now by adding in a variety of happiness habits and de-stressing techniques.

Below are a few tips/tools for your emotional toolbox:

1.The morning dump – take a few minutes every morning to write out what is on your mind, what you are feeling, what is stressing you, etc. When writing, do it without judgment or grammar/spell check. It is just a way to dump what is weighing on your mind and causing stress.

2. 1-2-3 technique – a quite simple breathing technique to help you reduce stress and nervousness. Breathe in through your nose for a count of three, hold for a count of three and exhale through your mouth for a count of three. It is quite easy to remember. If you do a count of two or four instead, it is fine just to breathe.

3. Get mindful with a walk – science has proven the best way to get mindfulness is by walking. A nice, paced walk will help you clear the clutter from your head and de-stress. We know mindfulness and meditation is the only natural way to de-stress. I always tell my clients to walk because it is easy and free, but all exercises are good.

4. Get grounded by walking through the grass or sand with bare feet. Feel nature on your feet while you use your physical senses to calm you. What do you hear? See in nature? Smell? Touch? For kids: have them lay down in the grass and have them explain what they feel, see, touch, hear, etc.

5. Talk it out- we all need to get our emotions out. Make sure you have a strong support system. We all need one or two people we trust and love unconditionally. If not a counselor, life coach or spiritual adviser can work.

6. Music is a great way to change your mood instantly. Having a stressful day, play some music that makes you feel good.

7. When we are having a bad day and want to change our mood, we can do it through memories/experiences. Sit down and close your eyes. Visualize a happy time in your life, it could be a party, vacation, etc. It does not matter how long ago it was. Your brain cannot tell the difference between a memory that happened last week or 20 ago. When we visualize and remember a happy time, it brings the happiness to the surface and changes our mood.

8. Laugh, spoon, cuddle, hug, smile… they all produce endorphins “The Happy Chemical.”

9. Chew gum – sugarless of course! Chewing gum improves our moods and memory.

10. Gratitude -gratitude cultivates mindfulness and happiness while retraining your brain to go from negative to positive.

11. I have my clients every night before bed do a gratitude check. All you must do is say or write down two to three things you're grateful for that happened today. It helps you to see and focus on the good in your day.

12. Unplugging from social media – social media causes FOMO (fear of missing out). When we scroll through social media, we start comparing ourselves to others which can make us feel worse about ourselves.

13. Watch your night-time thinking -whatever you think 15-20 mins before bed affects if we sleep, how we sleep and what mood we wake up in the morning. No news at night. The news makes us feel sad and fearful. Instead do your gratitude and meditate, they are part of a healthy nightly routine.

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

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College & Other News

Centenary Stripes Field Pink For Cancer Awareness

CCM Presents Second Annual Heroes & Healers Celebration

CCM Resumes On-Campus Info. Sessions & Tours

CCM Resumes On-Campus Info. Sessions & Tours

Mental Health Day

Events around town

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