Mt. Olive Online Publication March 21, 2023

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Hanukka Celebration Brightens Holiday Season In Mt. Olive

By Cheryl Conway

 

Despite Hanukka being celebrated earlier this year, lights were just as bright and a decent showing of residents attended the community’s gathering.

Hanukka, The Festival of Lights, was celebrated right after Thanksgiving weekend, from Sunday, Nov. 28 until Monday, Dec. 6. About 50 people attended the menora lighting indoors at the Mt. Olive Senior Center on Monday, Nov. 29, at 6:30 p.m.

Organized by the Chabad Jewish Center of Northwest New Jersey-Western Region, in conjunction with Mt. Olive Twp., the annual event invited the community for candle lighting, blessings, song, speeches and some traditional holiday favorites like potato latkes and donuts. 

Rabbi Yaacov Shusterman, spiritual leader of the Chabad in Mt. Olive, spoke about keeping the flames of Judaism alive, always growing as a Jew and as a person by taking small steps.

“Just like the menora gets lit up slowly over time, the best way to grow as a person is by doing small steps one at a time," he shares.

Every year, Shusterman invites someone from the community to light the Shamesh, or middle candle on the menora. This year he had Brian Schaechter, long-time Flanders resident and member of the Mt. Olive Planning Board, lead the blessing and light the Shamesh candle.

“We were very inspired by the amazing turnout, display of Jewish pride, and warm atmosphere of the attendees,” says Fraida Shusterman, co-leader of the local Chabad. “We thank Mt. Olive Township and Mayor Rob Greenbaum for hosting this event.”

The mayor was presented with a gift thanking him for all he has done for the town, the Shustermans share.

"We chose a book that we thought the mayor would really enjoy!” says Fraida Shusterman. The book is titled “The Wisdom of the Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson,” written by Simon Jacobson. 

“We look forward to welcoming the Jewish community to other events at our new center!  Please check our website for updates at www.mychabadcenter.com.”

The Chabad Jewish Center of Northwest NJ recently purchased the Temple Hatikvah in Flanders building and have been operating in there since Oct. 31. Please see related article in this issue of Mt. Olive Online.

The Chabad in Flanders has attracted residents in Mt. Olive and surrounding areas to be involved in programs and activities offered to the Jewish community.

Every year, the Shustermans visit other nearby towns that also organize community-wide menora lighting celebrations for Hannuka.

"At Chester we had about 40-50 people; Hackettstown about 25-30; Blairstown about 25-30!” says Fraida Shusterman. "It's a privilege to be able to light up the Hanukah flames in the small towns of New Jersey,” she says.  “We had latkes and donuts at all events; all mayors were able to come and were very supportive.  The spirit of Jewish unity was felt at all of these events.”   


Welcome readers to the 77th issue of Mt. Olive Online.

Mt. Olive’s Santa House Delights With Magic of The Season

By Dawn M. Chiossi

“Jolly Old Saint Nicolas, lean your ear this way. Don’t you tell a single soul what I’m going to say.”

In just those few lines of the Christmas song, people can feel the childlike anticipation of the holiday. They feel and recall the excitement of sitting on Santa Claus’s lap and telling him their Christmas wishes.  

When there’s a nip in the air, thoughts can’t help but turn to ones of merriment, whimsy and holiday goings-on. For kids, and the inner kid in adults, it boils down to the magic of the season. For many, that means Santa’s coming.

On Nov. 30, Mt. Olive’s Kiwanis Club opened Santa House at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake to make holiday memories with their families and enjoy a festive outing. Santa House is open on Saturdays and Sundays in December, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

There is no entrance fee, but donating is encouraged. For those festive photos, pictures taken with Santa will be a fee of $10 each. Weather permitting, there will be outdoor pictures. Photos will be on-site for convenience. 

Since 1995, Mt. Olive’s Santa House has been delighting both parents and kids, with some families even coming back year after year. Santa House is a local, festive family activity that has the bonus of helping the community. In that respect, it’s a perfect reminder that the holidays are not just about receiving; they are about giving as well.

Heidi Caruso, president of the Mt. Olive Kiwanis Club, can barely contain her excitement regarding Santa House for this year.

“Santa House is so much fun! It’s our biggest fundraiser,” she explains. “We were unable to do it last year because of the pandemic. It was just not safe. This year we are able to do it, and we are taking outdoor photos as well.”

Caruso relates that Santa House is one room festively decorated with a chair for Santa to sit in, a fireplace, a decorated tree and holiday trimmings all around. As such, it enhances the holiday mood for all.

“It’s not just a backdrop just for taking pictures, it’s a complete room,” says Caruso. “It really does feel like you are sitting in Santa Claus’s living room.”

Caruso also offers up a practical point, one that can’t be overlooked at this time of the year: The cost.

“This isn’t the standard photo of a child with Santa,” Caruso states. “At our price of $10, the picture won’t be something that you have to pay hundreds of dollars for.”

A huge fan of volunteering and giving back, Caruso relates that she had learned the rewards of volunteering by her parents and began at a young age. As a teacher in the Morristown School District, she is passionate about working with the students and giving back to the community. When she was searching to get back into volunteering, she investigated Mt. Olive’s Kiwanis Club.

 Kiwanis is a global organization dedicated to changing the world, one volunteer, one community at a time. The Kiwanis Club supports many projects including sponsoring Mt. Olive High School’s Key Club, a community service program that is a student-led organization with the goal of teaching leadership through helping.

Passing on enthusiasm and passion for giving back, Caruso can’t say enough about the student volunteers at Santa House.

“They organize crowds and do practically everything regarding the pictures,” she says. They are amazing.”

All proceeds from the Santa House will benefit the Mt. Olive Kiwanis Club and Foundation. Among other projects, the Mt. Olive Kiwanis Club sponsors the Mt. Olive High School Key Club, provides scholarships for deserving high school students and supports the Mt. Olive Pantry.

Taking the stress out of the holiday outings, there are no long lines and convenient parking at Santa House. Additionally, there’s no reason to leave four-legged friends behind, even pets are welcome.

Children will receive a free toy while supplies last.   

With such high energy and excitement, Caruso seeks to engage everyone this year by using social media.

There are additional delights to enjoy this year at Santa House as well. Some of these include a Santa House book drive to help get books in the hands of community children during visits,  trunk sales, a coffee house and selling of homemade jewelry.

“It’s an exciting time of year,” Caruso enthuses. “Santa House offers a place for families, community to come together and do something festive while engaging in the community. The biggest draw of something like this is that Santa House not only brings families together, but it also brings communities together.” 

For further information or details on Santa House or investigating Kiwanis,  contact Caruso at hcaruso.mokiwanis@gmail.com; and mtolivekiwanis.org. 

Meetings are held bi-monthly on the 1st and 3rd Thursday at 7:30 p.m.

Reading One Book Goes Viral At CMS

By Cheryl Conway

“Ah, how good it is to be among people who are reading,” stressed the Austrian poet and novelist Rainer Maria Rilke.

The students, teachers and staff at Chester M. Stephens Elementary School in Budd Lake could not agree more as they complete their One Book, One CMS initiative this past week.  The CMS school community has been reading “Fenway and Hattie,” by Victoria Coe since it kicked off the program October 18.

A fresh way to read together, especially after virtual learning last year during the pandemic, students and the community can share in the love of reading and enjoy a good book together. 

“There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world. Love of books is the best of all,” said Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, an American socialite, writer, photographer, and book editor who served as first lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963, as the wife of President John F. Kennedy. 

“I love that it creates a reading community among our students and gives families an opportunity to read together as well,” says CMS Instructional Supervisor Dani Marangon. 

The is the second year that CMS has participated in the One Book, One CMS initiative.

“We did it two years ago with the book “A Boy Called Bat,” explains Marangon.  “We were unable to do it last year due to Covid. We do plan to do it every year.”

CMS Reading Teacher Journie Cifelli brought it to former CMS Principal Kevin  Moore two years ago after it was run in her children's school, explains Marangon. At that time, the academic intervention teachers, which consisted of Cifelli, Marangon, Basic Skills Teacher Kathryn Vizzone and Kindergarten Teacher Lisa Lamendola, worked together to develop the program, the kick-off school assembly and parent reading night, says Marangon.

“That year EAMO donated the books so every student could have their own,” she says. 

“This year our school parent organization, the SCA, purchased the books for every student,” she says. Our academic interventionists continue to run the program.”

“Reading should not be presented to children as a chore or a duty. It should be offered as a gift,” quoted Kate DiCamillo, an American children’s fiction author,  usually featuring animals.

Each student at CMS received a copy of the book.

“Our parents’ group, the SCA purchased them with the money they raised from the book fair last year,” says Marangon. 

The CMS Academic Intervention Team chose this year’s title for the book initiative, says Marangon.

“It is about a 3rd grade reading level which means most of our students can read it,” says Marangon. “We looked for an engaging book- this one is about a family dog and it is told from the point of view of the dog. It is a fun read and offers a lot of teachable moments for the staff.”

“You're never too old, too wacky, too wild to pick up a book and read to a child,” said Anita Merina, a staff member of the National Education Association (NEA), who featured the quote in a poem used in “Read Across America” campaign designed to encourage children and adults to read. 

“Every single student gets the book and is encouraged to read along,” explains Marangon about the initiative.

“Our website has videos of teacher, town and central office volunteers reading each chapter,” she says. “That way if students aren't able to read the chapter themselves or don't have an adult at home who can read with them, they can still participate.  We do trivia questions over morning announcements for each chapter to keep everyone engaged. We have about 660 students reading along!”

The 162 page book-  “Fenway and Hattie,” by Victoria Coe-

was a fun, entertaining read for all.

“I love that book is told from the perspective of the dog,” says Marangon. “As an animal lover it is fun way to hear the story. He also has creative names for all his humans like Food Lady is the mom. And places- eating place is the kitchen.” 

The program also had teaching moments beyond the words on the page, encouraging fun activities and even a collection for animals.

“We do a trivia question after each chapter,” says Marangon. “All the students are invited to submit answers throughout the day and we pick a winner at dismissal and announce them. We had volunteers read chapters. We partnered with 11 Hour Rescue and organized a donation drive for animals there.”

Marangon says the initiative helped to collect hundreds of items for the Eleventh a volunteer run, no-kill rescue in Morris County that saves dogs and cats from high-kill shelters. 

“The donation drive was sent out to the school community,” says Marangon. “We asked for a different item a week,” she says, adding that the collection which has now ended, lasted five weeks.

“We collected paper towels, dish and laundry detergent, scrub sponges, used or new towels, new cat/dog toys,” she says. “Over 100 paper towel rolls and thee large boxes of other supplies” have been dropped off at Eleventh Hour Rescue. 

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go,” - Dr. Theodor Seuss Geisel, an American children's author, political cartoonist, illustrator, poet, animator and filmmaker.

Photo Gallery

    Tis The Season For Athletes Signings at MOHS

    Palumbo Blooms For Lacrosse

    Senior Drew Palumbo signed a Letter of Intent at a special signing ceremony held at Mt. Olive High School on Friday, Nov. 12.  Palumbo plans to attend Bloomsburg University in Bloomsburg, Pa., in the fall of 2022, to play women’s lacrosse and further her education.



    E. Con Heads East To U. Conn

    Senior Eli Conway of Flanders signed his Letter of Intent during a special signing ceremony held at MOHS on Tuesday, Nov. 23. Friends, family, coaches and other soccer players and athletes joined in the lunch-time pizza celebration to congratulate Conway’s commitment to play Division 1 men’s soccer at the University of Connecticut in Storrs, Conn., where he also plans to study business for his undergraduate degree. Pictured, from back left, is Cheryl Conway (mom); Skylar Conway (brother); Molly Conway (sister); Devin Conway (brother and MOHS sophomore); Todd Conway (father); front left, Asst. Varsity Coach Matt Cialone; Eli Conway; Varsity Coach Dan Grzywacz.

    Maya Takes Ride For Track & Field

    Senior Gabriel Maya signed his Letter of Intent on Tuesday, Nov. 23, at a special signing ceremony held at MOHS. Maya plans to continue his academics as a student athlete at Rider University in Lawrenceville where he plans to compete in Track and Field.
     


    Chabad Jewish Center Unlocks Key To Stability & Prosperity

    Temple Hatikvah President Larry Leibowitz hands over keys to Rabbi Yaacov Shusterman of the Chabad Jewish Center of Northwest New Jersey-Western Region  


    By Cheryl Conway  


    Its journey to find support and stability has never been brighter for the Chabad Jewish Center of Northwest New Jersey-Western Region in Mt. Olive.

    After 17 years of offering services and activities in five different places in town, the Chabad Jewish Center of Flanders has found a permanent home.

    While youngsters and their parents were ringing doors of houses for candy and saying ‘Trick or Treat,’ the religious leaders of the Chabad were picking up the keys and opening the door of a long-time synagogue in town… and all those affiliated were saying “Mazal Tov.”

    That was Sunday, Oct. 31, when the Chabad Jewish Center closed on its new location, 58 Pleasant Hill Rd., in Flanders, also known as Temple Hatikvah. Under the agreement, the Chabad and the synagogue will operate out of the same building until June 30, 2022.

    Like the candles that stayed lit, for eight nights instead of one, during the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem more than 2,000 years ago amidst the lack of oil to keep the flame a glow, the Jewish community can thrive and grow now that the Chabad Jewish Center has a permanent home.

    “We are so thankful,” says Rabbi Yaacov Shusterman, spiritual leader of the Chabad Jewish Center of Flanders. He says it is “so nice to deal with them,” the leaders at Temple Hatikvah, adding that he is “looking forward to all of the opportunities that are here.” His “hope” is “to make a very huge impact on the Jewish community through this.”

    In an open letter to the Jewish community, the Shusterman and wife Fraida, write: “We are confident that the new Chabad Jewish Center will become an inviting space and a vibrant center, full of Jewish life, positivity, warmth and Jewish pride, where youth and adults alike will feel comfortable.  The new space will enable us to offer an even more enriching array of programs geared to every Jew in the area.”

    Connection Is Made

    Whether it involved Hanukka one year at an ice rink with a giant ice-sculpted menora or sponsored a community Shabbat dinner at the Flanders Crossing Clubhouse, the Chabad always managed to provide the best services and events, despite a permanent structure.

    For almost three years, since February 2019, the Chabad Jewish Center had been renting space at 11 Deerfield Place in Flanders. Blessed with a growing membership, the Shustermans decided to explore the opportunity of acquiring the building after learning that synagogue leaders were looking into selling the establishment.

    It was in July when Shusterman says “I heard they were seriously contemplating to sell. So I met with the president. We would hate for the synagogue to close down.”

    In mid-September, “right before Rosh Hashana, he [the Temple Hatikvah president] texted me and made us an offer.”

    Shusterman says Temple Hatikvah decided to sell its synagogue because “they didn’t have enough members to keep it going financially.” While the plan is for the two Jewish congregations to share the building until next June, Shusterman says members of Temple Hatikvah “were looking for other options such as merging with other synagogues.”

    For now, the two congregations are successfully sharing the 7,600 ft. of space inside the synagogue.

    “They use it Sunday for Hebrew School,” says Shusterman. “They have a senior group,” as well. “We use it the other day,” or are even in the building at the same time.

    “It’s big enough to share,” says Shusterman.

    Jewish Congregations in Mt. Olive

    Temple Hatikvah and the Chabad Jewish Center are the two Jewish congregations that have served the Jewish community in Mt. Olive and surrounding areas.

    Founded in 1969, Temple Hatikvah is affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Back in 2018, it carried a membership of 75 families in Mt. Olive and surrounding towns such as Roxbury, Long Valley, Chester, Succasunna, Randolph and Hackettstown.

    In 2019, Temple Hatikvah celebrated its 50th anniversary and its pride of being the only established Jewish congregation with a shul in Mt. Olive.

    That same year, in February, The Chabad Jewish Center of Northwest N.J.-Western Region moved into rented space at 11 Deerfield Ave. for religious services and events.

    Located on the second floor of the brown brick building, on Route 206 North, at the end of the strip mall where Weiss is located, the 1,400 sq. ft. space consisted of two rooms with kitchen space.

    Prior to that, the Chabad offered organized services at the Flanders Crossing Clubhouse in Flanders and the rabbi’s home in Clover Hill.

    When the Shustermans first moved to Mt. Olive back in 2004, they lived on River Rd. in Flanders, offering some space for services there.

    When not held in their private home, Hebrew school had been held at the Country Day School in Flanders and services at the Flanders Crossing Clubhouse.

    Over the years, the Chabad’s membership has grown along with the need for a larger space for services, educational programs for adults and seniors, special programs for women, Hebrew school, activities for youth and teens and so much more.

    Members come from Mt. Olive, Hope, Blairstown, Hackettstown, Long Valley, Chester and Roxbury. 

    The next nearest synagogue is the Reform congregation of Temple Shalom in neighboring Succasunna; and the closest Conservative synagogue is Adath Shalom in Morris Plains.

    While the Shustermans are happy that they were able to rent the space at Deerfield, they knew their best option was to find a larger, permanent space they could call their own.

    “It really worked out,” says Shusterman.  

    Beneficial to All

    Buildings get sold all the time, but when it is acquired by another with the same goal and purpose in mind, the transaction can be one to be celebrated by all those who embark in its mission.

    “Our decision was based on the fact that a Jewish establishment needs to be saved and its legacy honored,” explains the Shustermans in an open letter to the community. “Through this purchase, Chabad is averting Temple Hatikvah and the legacy of those who invested their hearts, souls, money, dedication, time, and effort from becoming lost. By ensuring that this beautiful building remains standing, we can preserve the past and define the bright future of the local Jewish community.”
    Shusterman explains the benefits of the Chabad’s purchase.

    The fact that this “Jewish institution is not going to close is a good sign,” says Shusterman. “If it did close, where are they [the Jewish community members] going to go? For the morale of the Jewish community, it’s good.

    “It’s a beautiful place; it’s big,” he continues. “It’s a solid building; it’s beautiful. Overall, it’s perfect for community use; it’s really good.”

    Location is also ideal.

    “People want to come; it’s a very visible spot. Anyone looking for something can find it. For the Jewish community, it’s a great thing.”

    Shusterman says there are a lot of Jewish people in the area so having a synagogue in town or nearby is so convenient.

    “It’s very close,” he says. “It’s an excellent location,” only one mile from his house so on Shabbat and religious holidays he and his family can walk to synagogue.    

    Another benefit is its ability to offer more to the Jewish community.

    “This promising property will allow us to accommodate and increase our activities to serve and address the needs of the growing Jewish community in our area,” the Shustermans share in the letter. “With the expansion of the Chabad Jewish Center, we will be able to implement expanded programs geared to the Jewish youth, teens, adults and seniors.”

    Shusterman says he is hoping to offer more programs to the kids.

    “Hopefully the Hebrew school will grow,” he says, and a youth group can get established. He also mentions a senior group and growing numbers to attend a weekly Minyan service. Bar and Bat Mitzva ceremonies can also be held at the synagogue; as far as celebrations, music and food requirements may be restricted to non-Shabbat days and Kosher food brought in from caterer.

    “People will come and find out” about the Chabad, says Shusterman. “If we don’t find them, they’ll find us.” 

    Renovations Planned

    Shusterman says they do have some renovations in mind as the building could use some updating since it is 52 years old.

    “We just started working on it,” says Shusterman, as far as any ideas for structural changes or updates. “We don’t know yet. He mentions maybe some “cosmetic” improvement “like the roof” or “maybe making it more modern.”

    In a letter to the community, the Shustermans share: “We are currently in touch with lead architects and designers to update the exterior and interior of the building and improve the property.” 

    Shusterman says, “all in all it’s in excellent condition. It’s in move-in condition. Buying a ready-made building….It’s ready to go.”  

    Happy Members

    The Chabad has offered free membership to any and all Jews no matter of their affiliation.

    When asked how many current members are involved with the Chabad, Shusterman responds, “all of the Jews in the area are members.” 

    Members are happy that they will now have a synagogue to attend religious services and other events.

    “I’m very happy and excited that the Chabad has a permanent home,” says Toby Kornfeld of Succasunna, one of the pioneer members. Her two eldest grandsons were the first students to celebrate their B’nai Mitzvot through the Chabad. She also used to work at Temple Hatikvah’s Nursery School years ago, so having its foundation remain a synagogue is truly a blessing. 

    “Rather than having services in an office building, I consider the synagogue a holy place to worship,” says Kornfeld. The Bubbie, Jewish for grandmother, of nine is “pleased the building will not be destroyed, or taken down, or become something else. It will remain a temple, a place to worship.” 

    Another pioneer member, Lisa Sclar of Succasunna, says she was honored and excited to attend the first services at the newly acquired temple in November.

    “Everyone shared in the excitement,” says Sclar, despite the small crowd at that initial service. “Fraida [Shusterman] prepared and served an extraordinary Kiddush lunch,” and the “rabbi’s father was in attendance.”      

    Services are held every Saturday at the synagogue at 10 a.m. For any questions, dedication or to donate, visit www.mychabadcenter.com


     

    “We would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank the local pioneers who have partnered with us already with their lead gifts to jump start this process,” the Shustermans share in their letter.

    “In the next few weeks, we will be spearheading a crowdfunding campaign to help us finance the building.  It is time not only to dream but to act.  It’s time to invest together in the future of Jewish generations to come.  We humbly request your partnership in this exciting endeavor.  The fulfillment of this dream depends on people of vision, caring, dedication, and generosity.

    Please support our cause!  You hold the key to a bright Jewish future!  By opening your hearts, you are ensuring a better tomorrow.  Every donor is a partner.  Donations of all amounts are needed and welcomed!”

    With deep appreciation,

    Rabbi Yaacov and Fraida Shusterman

    Park Space, Mold, Vaccine Mandates, Towing Hit Council

    By Cheryl Conway

    Mt. Olive will be acquiring 25 acres to add to its park system and meeting space after the Mt. Olive Twp. Council approved an ordinance at its last council meeting.

    On Tuesday, Dec. 7, during the remote meeting of the Mt. Olive Twp. Council, members unanimously passed Bond Ordinance #26-2021 for the acquisition of property appropriating $400K and authorizing the issuance of $380K bonds to the township’s finance department. The property is located at 5 Pond View Lane in Flanders.

    Open Space Funds will not be used for this purchase, therefore, its usage will require less restrictions.

    “Open Space Funds were decided not to be used for the purchase which will give the township more flexibility with its use,” says Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko.

    “Once we have the closing, we’re all going to sit together to figure out a path forward that makes sense for the community,” Tatarenko says during the meeting.

    “The ideas are to offer the outdoor space as another open area for residents to enjoy,” he says. “The indoor space is still being developed but it would most likely be used as a small rental space or meeting area.”

    With access to the property at Flanders-Bartley Rd., the acquired land at “5 Pond View Lane was an abandoned house which we were monitoring for the past year over property maintenance issues when we decided that it would be a great piece of property for the township to acquire and add to our park system,” says Tatarenko.

    “Its 25 acres offers passive recreational, conservation and historic preservation opportunities,” he says. “It is locally known as The Tarn, also as the Bartley Foundry/Mill.  There is a 4,100 square foot building on site, a pond with small island which feeds into the South Branch Raritan and a boardwalk which goes around the entire pond.”

    Preserving any property that is historical can add character to the township.

    “This is going to be terrific for open space point of view, historic preservation,” says Kathleen Murphy of the Mt. Olive Twp. Historical Society. She says the vacated building and surrounding property will be eligible for consideration on the National Register for Historical Places.

    Other News

    Vaccines and mandates have been the talk, not only throughout the country and the world, but at Mt. Olive Twp. Council meetings.

    At the last few meetings, officials have been discussing whether to mandate the COVID 19 vaccine for Mt. Olive Twp. employees.

    Councilmember Alex Roman has been very vocal about not mandating the vaccine to employees, while Mt. Olive Twp. Mayor Rob Greenbaum has taken the opposite stance and suggesting that mandates may become a requirement.

    All township employees, meanwhile, have to either show their vaccination card as proof that they are vaccinated against the virus or undergo weekly testing that yields a negative test result.

    At the Nov. 23 meeting, Roman asked Tatarenko for an update on the numbers of employees who are vaccinated and those who get tested.

    Tatarenko says 50 employees per week get tested and there has been 100 percent compliance by employees.

    “It’s been working out well,” says Tatarenko.

    Roman also questions whether the vaccinated employees are being tested as well and Tatarenko responds, “Not at this time.”

    Greenbaum interjected at that point saying “We are looking at going to a full vaccination policy at this point and getting rid of the testing all together.” He says the option will be “either vaccinate or no longer be employed by the township.”

    The mayor’s plan is to talk to Tatarenko further about this mandate.

    “The current testing policy for unvaccinated employees is staying in effect,” says Tatarenko during a follow up call with Mt. Olive Online. “It has proven to be helpful as we have identified employees through this process that have been confirmed COVID positive.”

    He says, “Out of 187 employees, 53 are unvaccinated.  The 134 are not “allegedly” vaccinated, they have shown proof.  We are following the States EO as it relates to testing state employees and teachers.  If they change their policy to test vaccinated employees, we will follow.”

    Eco Islands

    Roman also questions the size of the one Eco Island already placed in Budd Lake. He points out that the floating island is a lot smaller than planned.

    “Did we contact the company to express our disappointment?” asks Roman.

    Tatarenko explains that the original agreement was for 25 ft. circumferent islands and that the next two will be double in size at 50 ft.

    “It was somewhat of a test even though it was smaller than we anticipated,” says Council President Joe Nicastro. “It will be a good thing,” he assures.

    Tatarenko says the islands will be different when the greenery grows on it.

    “That 25 ft. circumference looked pretty big,” says Councilmember Colleen Labow. “You put it out on the lake and it’s a drop in the bucket.” 

    Eco’ islands are artificial floating islands used as a low cost, sustainable method to improve water quality and mitigate storm water pollution. The man-made island is composed of woven and recycled plastic material which floats in the water.  Vegetation is planted and the root system removes nutrients from the water. 

    Mold

    Mold is another issue that grew into a greater discussion at the Nov. 23 council meeting.

    Councilmember John Mania asks for an update on the “problematic room in the clerk’s office.”

    “We are currently remediating the room,” says Tatarenko, adding that “within the next day or two I am anticipating the room to be completely fixed.”

    He explains: “There was a small mold issue that we discovered on some of the old minute books so we are moving all the binders, replacing them with new ones. We are vacuuming everything in that storage room. We should be in good shape moving forward.” 

    Questions Roman: “Did we ascertain what caused it? Are we looking at any mitigation factors to address it? Should we have a plan in place to investigate other areas of the building that maybe aren’t explored as often so that maybe we can identify other issues before they get worse?”

    Tatarenko tells “Mt. Olive Online” that “Several old cloth minute binders were observed to have mold growing on the outside due to the moisture in the room back in October.

    “An environmental specialist was contracted to test the air quality in the room and confirm the presence of mold,” he says.  “It was recommended to have the cloth binders professionally removed and the vault cleaned.  All safety precautions were taken and there was never a threat to the safety of our employees or residents.”

    The mold is being cleaned up but the issue led to a larger discussion about digitalizing township records for better preservation.

    “Are we looking to digitalize everything,” asks Nicastro?

    Tatarenko responds explaining how the township administration started a pilot program in the construction department to see how the transfer of paper records to digital records goes. He says the plan is to move that process to other departments.

    “We want to digitalize everything as some point,” says Labow. “Are we doing that now or are we still doing paper? It’s better to do that now. We don’t have to do all the old stuff and get to the new stuff.” 

    Tatarenko explains that “some of the things we do get scanned in computer and get scanned electronically,” but still keep a hard copy as a permanent record. 

    He explains that scanning in documents officially requires a certified process by the state with signatures.

    Because of that, it “doesn’t mean we can destroy the paper unless we do it through a certified program which we are doing in the construction department,” explains Tatarenko. He says they are “starting to scan in old files.” Last year, they had a $50K budget for this process; this year, the township is budgeting another $50K.

    “We are doing both,” says Tatarenko. “We’re accepting electronic papers and we’re still accepting paper permits.”

    Asks Labow, “Why don’t we just go all electronics at this point? Even clerk’s office; why do we need to hold onto paper?” She says, instead of creating paper and more small cabinets, we should do all electronics.

    Responds Tatarenko: “To do a small file cabinet is $50,000. I don’t disagree that it shouldn’t be done but where does it fall in line with all other projects?”

    Michelle Masser, Mt. Olive Twp. clerk and council secretary, provides insight of the process.  

    She says there is a scanning process that involves scanning records. “Minute books, resolutions and ordinances are permanent records. I’d have to look to see if things have changed,” but protocol has been “to keep original books with the original signatures.

    “We need to do an update in my office,” Masser says. “We currently scan all of our minutes of our resolutions. PDF’s, you have to keep logs. There’s a lot that goes into the process. It requires hours of manpower to do it. We’ve been doing it over many years.

    “Every meeting, we have a process,” continues Masser. “Everything gets scanned in, everything gets signed, resolutions and ordinances are numbered. Unfortunately, trying to get rid of paper completely is very difficult; it’s extremely costly. It’s not an easy process; it’s very lengthy.”

    Mania then asks Masser “How are you and the other employees feeling health wise?”

    Masser admits, “I haven’t been feeling so great, we are all tired. We have a lot of added work; we have to put back all of the books in the office. It’s very involved,” adding that they were not “allowed back in the vault yet,” and it will be “another week before the project is complete. We are not at our best.” 

    Says Labow, “They need to clean that duct work; all the stuff moving around. Are they cleaning out the duct work?”

    Tatarenko responds, “I don’t think this is the right forum for this discussion. There’s been plenty of tests and samples done in the building. There is no need for additional work.”

    Towing Ordinance

    At the Dec. 7 council meeting, Roman asks the council to consider increasing the township’s towing ordinance beyond a five-mile radius.

    He  “asked us to review the towing ordinance, specifically, the requirement for the townships towing vendor to maintain a business within five miles of Townhall,” explains Tatarenko. “During this process, the police department is recommending other amendments.  Those include insurance requirements, safety measures and an increase in fees.

    “It is not recommended to increase the five-mile distance as we feel it would jeopardize the level of service,” says Tatarenko.  “The towing vendor is used in most cases to remove a disabled vehicle from an accident and it is imperative that it is removed as quickly as possible.” 

    Roman explains that his request to increase the radius came from an area towing company who was excluded from bidding for towing in the township because of the five-mile radius restriction.

    Roman says that the five-mile radius is to town hall as opposed to the edge of town.

    Mt. Olive Police Chief Stephen Beecher attended the last council meeting to provide some insight into the ordinance and respond to Roman’s concerns. Beecher says the bulk of accidents are on Rt. 206 and Rt. 46 corridors. Towing service has been needed mostly for these accidents.

    “We did not do an audit of location of accidents, where they are in town,” he says.

    He says that between Jan. through Nov. 30 this year there were almost 800 accidents, “traffic crashes in town we handled.”

    Beeches advises against increasing the radius on the towing ordinance.

    “This ordinance has been in place for quite some time,” says Beecher. “It’s not broke; I don’t see the need to fix it. Bills is the towing service, he says, because the other companies they had used in the past for towing are no longer offering towing services.

    “We went with Bills because it’s been very responsive to our needs,” says Beecher. “Bills has been an adequate supplier of towing services in Mt. Olive.”

    The towing ordinance with requested amendments is expected to be introduced to the council at its January meeting.

    To see if other council members agree with Roman’s request to increase the mile radius for towing, Nicastro took a vote. All members agree to keep the mile radius to the five miles. 


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    Local & County News

    Students Plant Daffodils To Honor Holocaust Victims

    Students Plant Daffodils To Honor Holocaust Victims

    Students Plant Daffodils To Honor Holocaust Victims

     

    Photo caption: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Zywicki joins MOHS’s History of the Holocaust class at the daffodil planting

     

    Mt. Olive High School students are doing their part to ensure that their generation remembers the Holocaust. The 30 students in the school’s History of the Holocaust course rolled up their sleeves and planted 250 daffodil bulbs in a flower garden near the football field.

    The activity was part of the Daffodil Project, a global initiative to plant 1.5 million daffodils worldwide in honor of the 1.5 million children who lost their lives during humanity’s darkest hour. According to DaffodilProject.net, the six-pointed yellow perennials were chosen because of their resemblance to the yellow stars that Jews were forced to wear during the period.

    “The goal is awareness, to ensure that future generations know about this horrific event and to make sure it never happens again,” said teacher Jennifer Hamilton. “It also brings attention to the fact that genocides and humanitarian crises are going on today. Kids think that this [the Holocaust] is a point in history that has passed, but they don’t see that similar events are happening right now in other parts of the world.”

    MOHS’s one-semester History of the Holocaust course is new this year. The elective explores the political history of Germany from World War I through the end of World War II. Hamilton, however, also tries to make the experience a more personal journey and examines the lives of some of the survivors and victims, especially children. Remembering the names and faces of those who confronted hatred and violence helps ground the course.

    “It’s pretty emotional and eye opening for them,” said Hamilton about the course. “I think the students are genuinely interested in understanding how something so horrible could happen.”

    A trip is planned for this spring to Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic so that the students can see firsthand some of the infamous locations central to the Holocaust and Nazi Germany. They will also visit museums that house artifacts from the period.

    Approximately six million Jews lost their lives during the Holocaust, as did millions of others during the era based on their ethnicity, religion, political beliefs, and sexual orientation.

    Mt. Olive Democrats Celebrate One Year of Giving

    Students Plant Daffodils To Honor Holocaust Victims

    Students Plant Daffodils To Honor Holocaust Victims

    Photo Caption: Local Democrats thank Mt. Olive for 12 months of giving. Pictured, from left, are Dr. Antoine Gayles, Susie Caufield, Colette Tarallo, Alicia Sharma, Victor Jacksier, David Wilson, Andy Meissner, Ellen Weygandt and Jerry Gallagher. Photo by Stephanie Gayles.


    The Mt. Olive Democrats celebrated the one-year anniversary of their monthly food drive on Saturday, Dec. 4, at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake. Each month volunteers and residents come together to donate food and personal care items that are then distributed to local food pantries. All donations are welcome but items most in need are pantry staples such as peanut butter, jelly, canned mixed vegetables, cooking oil, flour, sugar, and more. The next food drive is set for Saturday, Jan. 8, from 10 a.m. to noon.

    Visit http://www.mountolivedemocrats.org  for details on upcoming food drives and other events. 

    MO Tree Lighting This Week!

    Students Plant Daffodils To Honor Holocaust Victims

    Church Donates Gift Cards

    Church Donates Gift Cards

    Students Develop Job & Life Skills In New Program

    Church Donates Gift Cards

     

    On Tuesday, Dec. 7, Pastor Alan Pirrello of Budd Lake Chapel donated gift cards to the Health Department. Together with his members of Budd Lake Chapel, they have been able to donate for the past decade. Photo taken by Claudia Tomasello.


    Students Develop Job & Life Skills In New Program

    Students Develop Job & Life Skills In New Program

    Students Develop Job & Life Skills In New Program

    Marauders Believe, a new program at Mt. Olive High School, is helping students with academic and developmental disabilities prepare for independence and adult life.

    Though academic support is an important part of the program, the real heart and soul of Marauders Believe is hands-on job training and life skills practice.

    Innovative vocational opportunities, both at the high school and in the Mt. Olive community, have been developed to provide work experiences that are appropriate for each student’s individualized needs, strengths and interests.

    Students in the program, for example, might make and sell snacks and handmade crafts from a cart in the commons area of the high school. Working at Café Connect reinforces real-world math skills, but more importantly provides valuable experience in communication. It’s called Café Connect for a reason: Customer interaction takes place through the communication method best suited for the Café Connect worker, which is not always verbal. Workers and customers might use sign language, iPads, or speech-generating devices to have a conversation.

    Through an internship with Sodexo, the district’s provider of food services, students also have a chance to work with the company in preparing, sorting, and packaging school lunches.

    Job sampling is available too, and provides students with real-world job experience. Students explore careers by working at outside businesses or organizations several days per week, learning the unique, practical skills necessary to be successful. Each quarter, the students move to a new work experience at a different business.

    Job roles and functions include receptionist, stock, food preparation, hall monitor, staff assistant, manufacturer, sports announce, and more.

    The high school has partnered with a range of local organizations to offer these job training opportunities; among them are ShopRite in Flanders and Stanhope, House of Good Shepard, Ashley Farm, McDonalds, Ace Hardware, Paragon Village, RH Farms, Dollar Store, Lowe's and Eleventh Hour Rescue.

    “Transitioning young adults with disabilities from school to the adult world requires careful planning,” said Sharon Staszak, director of special services for grades 6-12. “Marauders Believe was designed to provide as many opportunities as possible so that our students can be successful and as independent as possible after graduation.”

    Students with developmental and learning disabilities often require practice with everyday life skills. In the independent daily living component of the program, teachers work with each student to develop an individualized plan that will provide the necessary living skills to help them reach self-sufficiency. This might include meal planning and cooking, financial management, health care, clothing care and home safety. Discussions of available community resources also take place so that students know there are places to turn for support when they leave the nurturing confines of MOHS.

    Three classrooms in the building have been configured into instructional stations for Marauders Believe. A kitchen is devoted to food prep for Café Connect. A large work area provides the space for hands-on activities such as craft projects, laundry, office tasks, and grocery shopping. A third section is dedicated to practice job interviews, mock job sampling, and recreation.

    “Mt. Olive’s special education program is well-regarded and considered one of the best in the county,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Zywicki. “Marauders Believe takes it to the next level. We are dedicated to helping all our students find success and live fulfilling lives.”

    The marauder is the mascot of the high school; believe is an acronym for bringing empowerment through life skills, independence, education, and vocational experiences.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
     

    Tulip Looks For Home For Holidays

    Students Develop Job & Life Skills In New Program

    Students Develop Job & Life Skills In New Program

    Tulip is a one -year old formerly feral feline.

    She was born outside and had a litter of kittens when she was still just a kitten herself. Once trapped, she made it clear that she was done with all that and wanted to be a house cat, and within a few days was cuddling with her foster mom. She's loving the indoor life and likes to play with toys, snuggle in bed at night and get as many pets as possible.

    All she needs now is a permanent home for the holidays. Tulip is spayed, vaccinated, negative for FIV/FeLV, and microchipped, and would really like to meet her next owner. If interested, fill out an adoption application at www.mtolivetnr.org  or contact the Mt. Olive TNR Project at mtolivetnr@gmail.com or (973) 804-6273. 

    Morris County Unveils Small Business Recovery Grant Program

    Morris County Documents Soldiers & Sailors From Every Little War

    Morris County Documents Soldiers & Sailors From Every Little War

    In recognition of “Small Business Saturday,” the Morris County Board of County Commissioners announced the development of the Morris County Small Business Grant Program that will provide federal fiscal recovery funding to local, small companies and entrepreneurs impacted by the pandemic.

    The application process has not yet opened, but will be announced later as program details are finalized and the program is officially launched. The program is being designed to provide grants of up to $15,000 to reimburse small businesses and non-profit organizations for specific pandemic recovery expenses incurred on or after March 3, 2021 – a timeline established under the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which is the source of the funding.

    “Small businesses are not only vital to our economy but they are a key part of the unique identity of every town,” said Commissioner John Krickus, who has been helping to develop the program through the Commissioner’s COVID-19 Strategic Planning Advisory Committee. “We look forward to launching a small business grant program, as we ensure we are meeting federal regulatory requirements.” 

    The Small Business Grant Program eligibility requirements include: Available to businesses with 25 or fewer full time employees (or equivalent);  In operation since Jan. 1, 2019; Located within Morris County; Less than $5 million in sales/revenue; Proof of a decline in sales/increased expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The Commissioners’ plan is to dedicate $5 million in ARPA funds to the program.

    An online process is in development for applicants to submit proper documentation needed to determine eligibility of a business and the expenses that qualify for reimbursement. The Morris County Chamber of Commerce will be coordinating outreach to potentially eligible businesses, including those who may not have traditionally sought government grant funding in the past.

    “Small business in the county have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic and its lingering effects,” said Meghan Hunscher, president and CEO of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Corporation.

    “Unlike larger companies, they had less margin for absorbing the revenue losses and costs required for reopening,” she added. “At the same time, they have made every effort to keep their employees working while fulfilling the needs of their customers. We look forward to working closely with the county commissioners to connect qualifying small businesses throughout the county with this grant program.”


    Morris County Documents Soldiers & Sailors From Every Little War

    Morris County Documents Soldiers & Sailors From Every Little War

    Morris County Documents Soldiers & Sailors From Every Little War

    Morris County has taken an interest in documenting soldiers and sailors as far back as the 1800s and asking for some input from the community.

    The Feb. 15, 1898 explosion that sank the U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbor, Cuba killed 268 of its crew and sparked hostilities between Spain and the United States, which had long supported revolts in Cuba and the Philippines to break from Spanish rule.

    Known as “Remember the Maine,” this explosion became a call to arms in the Spanish-American War, and Morris County residents were among the heroes and casualties of a series of conflicts that began in Cuba and continued into the Philippines years later. 

    Morris County’s Office of Planning and Preservation has compiled a growing list of those soldiers and sailors and hopes to fill in many blanks on their history, as well as find others who served.

    “This release demonstrates Morris County’s continuing efforts to document her veterans’ histories,” said Jan William, a historian at Planning and Preservation. “What may only be a name of a veteran today, in the future someone may be able to fill in that history.

    “We have compiled many names and even some old news clippings on our local sailors and soldiers who served in those conflicts, but we would love to learn of others and find any supportive documents as well as old news clippings about them,” she said. “This was a notable and interesting era in our nation, as well as in Morris County, and we hope to document it as thoroughly as possible. We invite everyone to help us.”

    Contributions may be sent to jwilliams@co.morris.nj.us.

    View the Spanish-American and Philippine Wars website.

    It was on April 21, 1898, the U.S. declared war on Spain, marking the first military conflict wholly fought overseas by our nation. Quick victories by U.S. troops led Ambassador John Hay, who soon became secretary of state, to dub the conflict, “A splendid little war.”

    By Dec. 10, 1898, an armistice was signed that freed Cuba from Spain and left dominion of Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines to the U.S., triggering a second conflict known as The Philippine-American War. From February 1899 into 1902, American soldiers fought to suppress many of the same Filipino insurgents who had been revolting against Spain, losing far more troops in those battles than in its conflict with Spain.

    College News

    Hackettstown’s Annual Hometown Holiday Celebration Heralds Holiday Season

    Hackettstown’s Annual Hometown Holiday Celebration Heralds Holiday Season

    Hackettstown’s Annual Hometown Holiday Celebration Heralds Holiday Season

    The Hackettstown community gathered at Centenary University recently to kick off the town’s 2021 Hometown Holiday celebration. A highlight of the event is the illumination of the Edward W. Seay Administration Building on the front lawn of the University’s campus. Singers, musicians, Santa, and the Centenary University Cyclone created a festive atmosphere, while Centenary students distributed holiday treats to children. 

    The annual event is presented by the Hackettstown Business Improvement District. 

    This Barbie is More Than Just a Pretty Face

    Hackettstown’s Annual Hometown Holiday Celebration Heralds Holiday Season

    Hackettstown’s Annual Hometown Holiday Celebration Heralds Holiday Season

    A new horse at Centenary University may sport a glamorous name, but Barbie is much more than just a pretty face.

    Acquired through the generosity of an anonymous donor, this beauty works hard serving riders with disabilities as part of the University’s therapeutic riding program. Called TRAC (Therapeutic Riding At Centenary), the program teaches horsemanship and horseback riding skills to children and adults with disabilities, while enhancing related goals such as balance, strength, and sensory integration.

    Therapeutic riding horses require special qualities to adapt to riders with varying physical and emotional needs, according to Karen Brittle, assistant professor of equine studies and director of TRAC.

    “This job can be mentally demanding for a horse,” Brittle explained. “When a horse is ridden by one person for sport or competition, they learn that person’s quirks and have a partnership with that person. Therapeutic riding horses can be handled by dozens of people in a week, and riders with special needs bring different behaviors and energy levels to their lessons. These horses need to really enjoy being handled by people.”

     Barbie is an 8-year-old Haflinger, a small-horse breed known for a sturdy build. While her full background isn’t known, Brittle believes Barbie previously worked on an Amish farm.

    Barbie’s short stature and wide base of support provide the versatility to accommodate children and most adults, especially those who are gravitationally insecure or have attention challenges that would be exacerbated at greater heights.   


    Hackettstown’s Annual Hometown Holiday Celebration Heralds Holiday Season

    CCM Design and Visual Arts Students Present Exhibition

    Brittle added that therapeutic riding horses must also have a calm, patient temperament: “These horses have to be predictable in their behavior and tolerate changes to their environment. Horses are prey animals, so their nature is to flee to safety when they’re in a claustrophobic situation. At any time, Barbie and our other therapeutic riding horses may have a rider, someone on the lead, and one or two people walking on the sides, depending on the support needs of the rider. So, they could work for an hour surrounded by four people. It takes a very special horse to adapt to this type of work.”

    Barbie arrived at Centenary late last spring and went through 10 weeks of acclimation and training before being paired with her first rider, a 10-year-old boy, at TRAC’s youth summer camp.

    “The emotional connection between horse and rider was really important to this boy,” Brittle recalled. “Barbie was a pro and responded well to the attention she received from her rider and our staff. For this particular rider, it meant a lot that he was part of Barbie’s training team.”

    Barbie’s anonymous donor saw the powerful difference TRAC makes while completing the university’s instructor in training program. The eight-credit program, which is open to the public, prepares participants to test for certification as a certified therapeutic riding instructor (CTRI). The donor noted, “Barbie was donated because I got to see firsthand how important the program is to those who participate in the classes as a rider, volunteer, or instructor.” 

    CCM Design and Visual Arts Students Present Exhibition

    CCM Design and Visual Arts Students Present Exhibition

    CCM Design and Visual Arts Students Present Exhibition

    Viperfish & Parasite, illustration by Sage Wright. 


    Looking for an opportunity to view creative works up close and personal? This season is a great time to indulge in the love of design and art at the County College of Morris (CCM) Art & Design Gallery in Randolph.

    The Department of Art & Design is celebrating and honoring the work of students with a Fall 2021 Design and Visual Arts Portfolio Class Exhibition.

    The exhibit opened December 1 and runs through December 16. A reception, free and open to the public, is set to take place Thursday, Dec. 16, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The gallery is located in the Sherman H. Masten Learning Resource Center on CCM’s campus. Everyone who comes to campus is required to wear a mask indoors and practice social distancing.

    The Portfolio class represents the summation of all a student’s work from two years of creative studies at the college.

    “Portfolio and Presentation courses at CCM help students to critique, improve and select their best work; create effective presentations; write documents for marketing their creative work to galleries, museums and prospective clients; and develop portfolios to gain entrance to four-year colleges and universities,” notes Todd L. W. Doney, CCM professor of visual arts.

    Gallery hours are Monday and Wednesday noon to 5 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday noon to 8 p.m.; Friday noon to 4 p.m.; and the first Saturday of the month 1 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    For information on CCM Art and Design programs, visit https://bit.ly/CCM_ArtandDesign/.

    CCM Presents Music and Dance Performances

    CCM Design and Visual Arts Students Present Exhibition

    The Shakespeare Conversations Return at CCM

     

    After months of rehearsing, students and faculty from the Department of Music, Performing Arts & Music Technologies at County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph are presenting shows this December to highlight various performance skills and talents, including music, singing and dancing.

    The free Winter Music Concert, was set to take place Friday, Dec. 3, at 7:30 p.m. The melodies of the holiday season are brought to life by the CCM Chamber Choir and Wind Ensemble  in the Dragonetti Auditorium in the Student Community Center.

    Next up is the Dance Theatre First Look, featuring new and exciting choreography works by students, faculty and guest artists. That program is set to take place Monday, Dec. 13, and Tuesday, Dec. 14, at 7:30 p.m. Attendees will delight in an evening full of movement and magic as they view an offering of various dance styles and genres, including solo, group and musical theatre works. The dance performances will be held in the Music Technology Center. The program is free and open to the public.

    Attendees are asked to park in Lots 6 and 7.

    To learn more about the Department of Music, Performing Arts & Music Technologies at CCM, go to https://bit.ly/CCM_Performing_Arts/.

    The Shakespeare Conversations Return at CCM

    CCM Design and Visual Arts Students Present Exhibition

    The Shakespeare Conversations Return at CCM

    Explore and dive into the poetic and legendary work of The Bard as part of The Shakespeare Conversations, which returns to County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph this month with an online program.  

    The conversation on Henry IV Part II – with a recap on Part I – is set to take place Thursday, Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Through this exploration, participants will delve into such topics as power, age and redemption. Attendees will receive a study guide and Zoom link prior to the one-hour discussion.

    All are invited to join. Shakespeare experts and novices are welcome. No previous knowledge is needed. To take part in the free online program, email shakespeare@ccm.edu.

    The Shakespeare Conversations is made possible by a $10,028 grant from the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, a state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities, through the American Rescue Plan Act.

    In spring 2022, The Shakespeare Conversations will offer three events, including another close study of a Shakespeare work and two guest speakers. 

    The Shakespeare Conversations is overseen by Dr. Ann Patten, Dr. Yoonha Shin and Professor John Soltes.

    Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in the programming do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities or the New Jersey Council for the Humanities.

    Registration at Sussex Community College Opens

    Registration at Sussex Community College Opens

    Registration at Sussex Community College Opens

    Choosing a college that is both affordable and academically challenging is a big decision for college-bound students. Weighing college options carefully before making a final decision will help keep finances in check. Keeping the cost of education down is one of the many reasons students should start at Sussex County Community College in Newton.

    Registration for the Spring 2022 Semester is now open. With more than 70+ degrees and certificates, an honors program, regionally ranked athletics and a rich campus life, Sussex has something for everyone. Sussex also offers robust career and technical programs. Students can choose from more than 32 Associate of Applied Science programs that help them transition into a career upon graduation.

    Students may also be eligible for New Jersey's tuition-free program. To qualify, a student’s household must have an adjusted gross income of $0-$65,000 to be considered for the Community College Opportunity Grant.

    The college offers a winter session beginning Jan. 4, 2022 for students looking to start their education quickly. This session can be completed in just two and a half weeks and gives visiting or current students a way to get ahead. Classes are held remotely and allow students to keep their education going in the comforts of their own homes.

    Students interested in starting their college education can fill out an application by visiting sussex.edu/apply. For information, contact the Sussex Admissions Office at admissions@sussex.edu or call (973) 300-2223.

    CCM Gains Additional Top National Rankings

    Registration at Sussex Community College Opens

    Registration at Sussex Community College Opens

    The dedication and commitment of County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph to provide exceptional programs for students has earned the college national ratings in several key areas. Most recently, CCM has gained several national rankings from College Factual in its 2022 listings.

    The college is ranked #1 in the nation for its Associate in Fine Arts program. Faculty in that program are working artists who exhibit nationally and internationally with numerous awards to their credit. The college also is placed in the top 10 percent nationwide for its Criminal Justice, Nursing, Radiography and Respiratory Therapy programs.

    Other prominent rankings from College Factual include:

    #1 Most Popular and Best Quality Visual and Performing Arts Associate Programs in New Jersey; #1 Best Value Radiologic Technology and Graphic Design Associate Programs in the Middle Atlantic Region.

    College Factual uses data from the National Center of Education Statistics on graduate employment and earnings, tuition costs, college debt rates and other factors related to graduate success.

    During the past year, CCM has earned several prestigious ratings such as  #1 for Associate Degrees by Intelligent, top 1.8 percent of the Best Community Colleges in the nation by Academic Influence, #1 in Alumni Salaries by Payscale and #1 Most Popular Online Business Administration & Management Associate Degree School in New Jersey by Business Degree Central.

    To learn how how to benefit from an exceptional education at CCM, visit www.ccm.edu/.

    Expert Offers Rules On Coping With Panic

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

     

    I want to say thank you to one of my newsletter subscribers (Chris K) for sending me the golden rules for coping with panic. It's a great reminder of how to cope especially with the holidays and winter blues. I added in a few of my own rules as well. 


    Golden Rules for Coping with Panic

    1. Remember that although your feelings are uncomfortable and even frightening, they are neither dangerous nor harmful. Remind yourself of this when you are becoming anxious. 

    2. Understand that what you are experiencing is an exaggeration or your normal reaction to stress. We all have stress. Stress is a normal part of life. 

    3. Do not fight your feelings or try to wish them away. The more willing you are to face them, the less intense they will become. 

    4. Don’t add to anxiety or panic by asking yourself “what if . . . “. If you find yourself asking what if, tell yourself "so what."

    5. Stay in the present. Focus on what you are feeling in your body. Observe it. Keep your focus on your bodily sensations rather than worrying about how much worse it might get. Just noticing and observing is a form of mindfulness and will bring you into the present moment. Mindfulness helps us to destress.

    6. Label your fear level from 0-10 and watch it go up and down. Notice that it doesn't stay at the high level for more than a few seconds. The only constant in the world is change and everything is temporary even your fear and stress.

    7. When you find yourself thinking about fear, change your what if thinking. Focus on taking action and performing some small, simple, manageable tasks. 

    8. Notice that when you stop thinking frightening thoughts, your anxiety starts to fade. This means to avoid Catastrophizing.  

    9. When fear comes, accept it, embrace it, don't fight it. Fighting/resisting just adds more stress.

    10. Remember 90% of what you fear never happens.

    11. Be proud of your progress. Just observing and being mindful is progress. Doing positive self-talk is progress. Moving forward is progress. Not fighting or resisting is progress. 

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

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