Mt. Olive Online Publication April 16, 2025

Mt. Olive Online
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Hot Cocoa Sale Profits Sisters’ Love for Reading

By Cheryl Conway

Pictured, from left, Rayna and Emily sell hot chocolate. 


The Boone sisters learned a few lessons last month when they went into business together for a day.  

After five hours of their labor, they walked away with the notion that hard work does pay off, and that perhaps they make some really yummy hot chocolate.  

Eleven-year-old Rayna Boone, a sixth grader at Mt. Olive Middle School, and her 7-year-old sister Emily, a second grader at Chester M. Stephens, operated their hot chocolate stand on Sunday, Jan. 15, from noon to 5 p.m., in front of their Budd Lake home.   

Their love for hot chocolate and reading was the catalyst behind their joint venture.  

“Rayna really loves hot chocolate,” explains their dad Joe Boone. She was making some when he mentioned the idea of a hot chocolate stand as something to do on the weekend. He says he remembered how they occasionally had a lemonade stand when they were younger but thought hot chocolate would be better for the winter. 

“The girls were excited about it and wanted to give it a try,” he says. “They both love reading and constantly going through book after book, wanted to raise a little money to spend at the bookstore,” he says about his daughters.  

Rayna made the hot chocolate in the kitchen, using a thermos to make fresh batches on the stove, explains Boone. Then Emily served it in 12 oz. cups to any customers who stopped by their stand. They charged $2 per cup, and it included free toppings such as whip cream and marshmallows.  

Their dad bought the supplies, helped his girls make signs and post them, set up the stand and helped coordinate. He says they spent a couple hours making signs to help advertise and then put them on the two busiest roads nearby, Sand Shore and Rt. 46. 

Their Aunt Maureen made the post on Facebook to market the upcoming sale on the cold winter day. 

Word definitely spread as a couple dozen stopped at the stand to buy a hot chocolate or make a donation, he says.  

Out of pocket, he spent about $40 total: $20 on three gallons of organic milk; a large box of hot chocolate packets for $7; and cups with lids for $8. 

The girls made “a little over $100, a lot of that from tips; profit of about $60 or $30 each,” says Boone. 

With their love for reading, they chose to spend their earnings wisely.  

“Later, they went to bookstore with proceeds,” he says.  

He credits their mother, Kadek, who “loved to read them books and they both enjoyed this and started reading at a young age. Rayna has been a bookworm for a few years now; Emily started about a year ago. Rayna’s current favorite is “Wings of Fire” series; Emily likes “The Bad Guys.” 

Looking back at the venture, despite the cold day and the work involved, it was worth their efforts.  

“Warm coats and keeping a steaming cup hot chocolate nearby to keep hands warm,” was a plus, says Boone. “Also it wasn’t too cold (30s), nice sunny winter day. Girls were back and forth making/serving hot chocolate. Also spend a lot of time on Budd Lake when its frozen skating with their dad so they’re used to being out in the cold.”  

It was a little more work than expected getting everything ready and spending all day outside in the winter, but still worth it and had a good time! 

As far future sales, Boone says, his girls want to hold one more stand on Sunday, Feb. 19, most likely from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and this time their mom has been recruited to help! Other than that, he says, maybe next year they will plan more cozy hot chocolate stand sale days, or a lemonade stand in the summer. 

“Thanks to everyone who came out!” 


Welcome readers to the 90th issue of Mt. Olive Online

Mayor’s Assistant Resigns & Budget Presented

By Cheryl Conway

Mayor Rob Greenbaum, left, presents resolution to Lisa Brett, with Council President Joe Nicastro 

 

With the township as her backdrop, one of the lead players steps up to the mic and takes a bow in her final encore.  

After 11 years of hard work and dedication, Lisa Brett of Budd Lake has stepped down as mayor’s assistant and special projects coordinator.  

Township officials, and those who have worked with her outside the district, attended last month’s Mt. Olive Twp. Council meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, to recognize her efforts, congratulate her on a job well done and wish her success moving forward. The council and mayor passed a resolution commending her for her service since Jan. 1, 2012. 

“You will be missed,” says Mt. Olive Twp. Mayor Rob Greenbaum. “I benefitted the most through Lisa’s efforts,” he says, “from picking lint off my suits… to telling me where I need to be.”  

Agrees Council President Joe Nicastro, “She’s helped me for so many years.”  

In the resolution it states, “Lisa brought a unique and invaluable skillset to the position, as demonstrated by her so many accomplishments. Lisa has had a vast array of responsibilities across multiple departments and has always been able to balance the myriad of assignments in a professional, organized and dependable manner. 

“Lisa is best known for her out-of-the-box thinking and can-do attitude and has passion and excitement to every aspect of her work,” as stated in the resolution. “Lisa’s greatest accomplishment has been raising hundreds of dollars for the Recreation Department,  creating a synergy between the township, residents and businesses, generating a social media presence that is hailed by others, planning special events for occasions like the 9-11 Remembrance, annual tree lighting, festival of lights and interfaith Thanksgiving dinner, coordinating hundreds of ribbon-cutting ceremonies and meetings for the mayor, and being instrumental in soliciting various donations and equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic.” 

Morris County Sheriff James Gannon even attended the meeting and presented her with a certificate. “If you want something done, give it to a busy person,” says Gannon who has worked with her for seven years. “I don’t know how she did what she did. She’s a woman whose made the difference in people’s lives.” He mentions her role as founder of Jon’s Journey, a non-profit organization raising money for families of children undergoing brain surgery. 

Brett then took the podium and shared her thoughts. “I usually don’t do this,” says Brett. “I like being on the other side,” taking photos and coordinating events.  “The past 11 years has been my honor and privilege. It’s been an amazing ride. I’ve learned the best from everyone. They say your network is your net worth.”      

Property Tax Reward Program 

Dominic DeFalco of Fincredit Inc., a business solutions company, presented to the mayor and council a property tax rewards program that promotes local shopping and tax breaks to property owners. In business since 2010, Marlboro was the first town in New Jersey to use the program. 

If the council approves the program, Mt. Olive township residents can receive a property tax reward card and earn points. The program patronizes local merchants, offers a tax credit to local property owners and rebate to local renters.   

Merchants who sign up could offer a 10% discount to any card holders. Larger companies or contractors like plumbers can offer $200 on a job. The program is geared toward small businesses and mom and pop stores, he says.   

To register, merchants would have to provide information to join the program and handle any transactions, most likely through an App where they can enter a customer’s phone number or card number.  

To market the program, an employee at Fincredit can speak to merchants or the town can approach businesses directly, says DeFalco. So far, 26 towns out of 400 municipalities have signed up for the program, he adds. 

“At this point we’re not even calling townships anymore; they’re calling us,” he says. Also, there has not been a town yet that signed up and dropped out from disappointment.     

It has proved beneficial in Marlboro, where 35 merchants signed up and helped the residents save a combined $120K in property taxes, and yielded $1.2 million in sales for the businesses, pre-COVID. Monies are calculated annually with a fiscal year of May 1 through April 30. 

He says a “good spender” can save between $400 to $600 on their property taxes annually with this program.  

There is no cost to the township to participate, he adds. Cost will fall on sponsors and a $10 monthly fee paid by merchants who participate. Fincredit’s fee is $10K per year for a township to participate. Once a town gets 15 merchants, it can begin the program. 

Unclear about the costs, township officials decided to consider and discuss further before making their decision that evening.  

“I suggest let’s let everyone mull it over,” says Greenbaum. DeFalco agreed to send everything over in writing for the township to consider. 

Other News 

Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko announced that the car changing stations are being installed and should all be done by the end of February. One is already in at Flanders Park; two are being installed at Turkey Brook Park; and then there will be one at town hall and at the library.  

Greenbaum presented the proposed 2023 Municipal Budget. Departmental budget hearings were held in November 2022 with a deadline of January 17 to present to the governing body. The municipal budget must be introduced by March 31 and adopted by April 28. 

The mayor says the state does not have to review the municipal budget this year for its approval.  

“We have no planned tax increase,” says Greenbaum. The projected municipal tax rate is .606 which is the same rate as in 2022. Municipal taxes on an average assessed home of $324,300 would be $1,966. There is no planned tax increase for the sanitation district and no hikes in water and sewer rates.  

Keep in mind that property owners pay county, library, school, sanitation and open space taxes as well. Municipal taxes account for 18% of the pie. School taxes take up the largest portion of the pie, accounting for 69% of the total property tax rate by homeowners in Mt. Olive. 

The general fund ratable base grew by $56.6 million or slightly by 1.73%. 

“We haven’t had a tax increase since 2012,” Greenbaum shares in his budget presentation. “This will be our 11th sequential budget with no tax increase.”      

Students Quench Love For Reading at Vending Machine

Students caught being good get selected to buy a book at new vending machine.


By Cheryl Conway 


Students at Sandshore Elementary School who get caught doing a kind act or being good are being rewarded in a tasteful way. 

They receive a token to spend at the awesome, new vending machine in their school’s front lobby. Better than candy bars, chips or soda, students get to pick out a book!  

“This is a vending machine made specifically for books,” explains Kristy McFarlane, Sandshore instructional supervisor. The only one of its kind in the Mt. Olive School District, the vending machine was supplied by Inchy Book Vending Machine Company. It was delivered in September 2022.   

Sandshore Elementary School has found a creative way to reward students for their good behavior and kind actions. The concept was suggested by the school’s reading specialist.  

“A few years ago, Dr. Anemarie Hall, our school reading specialist, had brought the idea to myself and our principal Jennifer Curry,” explains McFarlane. “She thought it would be a wonderful addition to our school. Ms. Curry and I brought this suggestion to the attention of our parent organization, the SHSP (Sandshore Home and School Partnership). The SHSP purchased and donated the vending machine to the school.” 

As great minds develop even finer ideas, Curry decided to link kind acts with a reward to encourage reading.  

“Ms. Curry implemented a program called “Caught Being Good,” says McFarlane. “All staff were provided with Caught Being Good tickets that they can hand out to a student when they see them doing acts of kindness. Students then place their ticket, with their name on the back, in a large jug in the front office. Each week me or Ms. Curry will randomly pull 10 names from the jug and the students are called to the vending machine. They each receive one token to buy their book of choice from the vending machine.  

“The books are only for our “Caught Being Good” winners,” McFarlane notes. 

About the size of any average vending machine, the Sandshore display “has a custom wrap on it that has our school name and is MO colors and has a Marauder,” says McFarlane. It can fit about 200 books.  

The books are loaded by opening the front of the machine and placing the books in the racks. The machine takes gold tokens, provided by the company. Just like a regular vending machine, the customer places the token in the slot and chooses a book by the indicated number.  

What’s nice is that all the books cost the same – just one gold token, says McFarlane. 

The machine gets restocked regularly with books donated by the SHSP. “Additionally, our reading specialist Dr. Hall uses her Scholastic points and her own funds to help stock the vending machine,” adds McFarlane. “They are all soft cover books and range in level to meet all of our K-5 students.” 





Unlike a library, “all winners keep their books as their reward for being good,” she says.  

It’s really a win win, encouraging good behavior and promoting love for reading.  

“There are so many things I love about the vending machine,” says McFarlane. “It brings such great joy to our students. They love to bring their caught being good tickets to the office and are so proud of their accomplishments. The winners are so excited to use the vending machine. We announce winners on Fridays and it’s such an exciting event. Additionally, the vending machine is so beautiful and it really fosters excitement for books and entices our students to be kind to each other to earn a chance to win.”

The fact that its purchase was a community effort really sends a great message.   

“We absolutely love our book vending machine,” says McFarlane. “We cannot thank our SHSP enough for their generous donation and thank you to Dr. Hall for the idea and for working hard to keep the machine stocked with books!” 

Donated to the school by SHSP, total cost of the vending machine was $5,500, confirms Lauren Fitzgerald, SHSP president.  

“The SHSP conducts multiple fundraisers throughout the year, including sales, events, trips, dances,” explains Fitzgerald. “The proceeds from every fundraiser we conduct goes directly to efforts for the students and staff of Sandshore school. This year the SHSP conducted a Readathon where classes competed to see who could read the most for the month of March. Each week, the class with the most reading time received a banner for their door and a prize.” 

Fitzgerald is really pleased with the vending machine initiative. 

“The Sandshore School staff really goes out of their way to instill strong character values in our students,” says Fitzgerald. “One way they do so is by giving students a token for the book vending machine when they catch a student doing something kind. Watching students take their tokens to the book vending machine, choosing a book that they’ve been eyeing for weeks, and bringing it home to show their parents is so much fun. The smiles on their faces speak for themselves.” 

Sandshore’s parent/teacher organization continues to raise funds to support the school and fun events and initiatives. 

“The goal in our fundraisers this year is to provide lots of fun events for our students, and appreciation for our staff after several COVID years where these things weren’t as possible,” says Fitzgerald. “These students and staff have had some tough years. It’s our job to raise funds to make their time at Sandshore as fun and memorable as possible. This year, this will include dances for students, week-long teacher appreciation events, money towards a 5th grade field trip for students, and fun school-wide assemblies including BMX bike racing.” 

“Reading one book is like eating one potato chip,”―Diane Duane, author of So You Want to Be a Wizard. 

Black River Candy Shoppe Offers Nostalgia & Sweet Surprises

By Cheryl Conway 


It’s that time of year, Valentine’s Day is almost here, so why not give a sweet gift to all and anyone special in your life?   

Black River Candy Shoppe on Main Street in Chester is that one-stop shop for more than 1,000 different kinds of candies. Customers can choose from chocolates, hundreds of candy bars, jellybeans, salt-water taffy, nostalgic favorites and even a sugar-free selection.  

This month, Black River Candy Shoppe is ringing in 24 years of business and has earned its reputation as a top candy store in the state. Compared to its competitors, it is recognized for its large variety and nostalgic ambiance, says Owner Steve Jones, of Chester Borough. 

“We just got another kudos from Taste of Home who named the top candy store in all 50 states and once again we were named number one in New Jersey,” says Jones.  

“Five years ago, we were named the number one candy store in N.J. and one of the top 50 in the country by Food Network Magazine and just prior to the pandemic we were again named the number one candy store in the state by Best Things Jersey,” says Jones.  “We carry five-star ratings on both Yelp and Google.”
The variety of candy and wide selection to choose from can sweeten anyone’s day.   

At Black River Candy Shoppe, customers can pick from an array of more than “1,000 different candies including bulk sold by the pound, the latest “Kiddie Candy,” Jelly Belly, a small sugar free section, over 200 different candy bars, a large selection of English candies, a large selection of chocolates by Asher (a domestic manufacturer,) most all nostalgic candies still available and most current PEZ themes.  And about 25 flavors of salt-water taffy,” he describes.
Popular items seem to change from week to week, he says. “Nostalgic is big along with kid’s candy and English chocolate.”  

Wax bottles and wax lips take adults back to their childhood days; and the Pez dispenser display is iconic.  

“We have a collection of over 400 PEZ dispensers on display representing most all PEZ releases over the time we have been in business,” says Jones. “They come out with new themes and retire others periodically and I have put one of each that we have stocked over the past 24 years on our wall. Customers get a kick out of them and they are a great conversation piece.” 

Customers come from near and far to shop at Black River Candy Shoppe.   

“We have developed a following from as far away as Bergen County, Staten Island and NYC as well as all of our locals and surrounding areas,” says Jones.  

Candy is ordered from more than a dozen different suppliers and distributors, including direct purchase from some major companies such as Jelly Belly, he says.  

“We are always looking for new items of which we are informed by our suppliers,” says Jones. “One of the latest fads is freeze dried candy such as salt-water taffy, Skittles, Bit-O-Honey. We have also attended candy shows and exhibitions put on by some of our suppliers.  The biggest candy show in the country is held annually at McCormick Place in Chicago where all the latest confections are on display by manufacturers from all over the world.  We have attended about half-dozen times over the years.”  




Jones did not start his career as a candy store owner but what a sweet decision he made in 1999 to open up his shop. 
“After spending over 30 years in the pharmaceutical industry in both microbiology and production management I had a chance to get out with a nice package and decided to take a risk opening the Black River Candy Shoppe,” he explains. “My retirement job!”  

The skills he gained along the way really prepped him in his career change.   

“I feel my business management experience has helped quite a bit with staff management, interpersonal skills needed for effectively dealing with the public as well as a solid foundation in computer literacy,” says Jones. He got the idea for the candy store from some acquaintances who had similar stores in the mountains of North Carolina years prior, so he “put the idea in my back pocket.”  

As a longtime resident of Chester Borough, he decided to open his shop in the perfect location in Chester.    

It is “close to where I live; nice walk around town with many shops and eateries,” says Jones.  

The building “was actually a furniture restoration business and originally in the 60s was an automotive garage,” he says. “We completely redid the interior to give it an old-time nostalgic feel.”

With so many businesses in town, the support system is quite beneficial.  

Jones has been an officer on the board of the HCBA (Historic Chester Business Association) for most of the time he has been in business.  

“The organization is like a chamber, but totally non-profit with the goal of supporting downtown Chester businesses, farms and parks,” he explains. “We sponsor the Chester Craft Shows, Car Show, holiday activities to name a few of our events.  This past year our organization began “The Wheel of Chance” where customers who spend $20 or more at one of our member businesses (businesses do not have to join the HCBA, but we have about 60 members this past year), get a chance to “spin the wheel” for Chester Dollar vouchers from $5 up to $100 that can be redeemed as cash at any member business.  This past holiday season our organization gave away over $8,000 in vouchers!”  

Working in this industry has been just as sweet and satisfying as his candy.   

“I enjoy working with the public, have a good, albeit small staff and keeps me busy,” says Jones.
Personal service to ensure customer satisfaction is a standard at Black River Candy Shoppe.    

“We do not deliver, but do ship,” says Jones. “Orders must be placed by calling the store —we do not have an on-line ordering facility and would rather talk to the customer to be sure we are on the same page regarding the order.”  

Open seven days a week to satisfy any sweet-tooth craving, hours are: Tues.- Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Mon. 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.; and Sun. 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.  

Call 908-879-1233 or visit https://www.blackrivercandyshoppe.com/

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    School Officials Sign Agreement For Backup Bus Drivers

    By Cheryl Conway

    Under a new transportation agreement, Mt. Olive School District will be able to provide a bus or a van for school related activities when its own drivers are not available.  

    MOTSD Board Of Education members voted six to two, to approve a Joint Transportation agreement with Washington Twp. School District during its Jan. 23 BOE meeting. Lisa Fenton and Louisa Melendez voted no and Christopher Zeier abstained. 

    Under the new agreement, drivers outsourced from Washington Twp. School District will get $65 per hour for a bus; $55 per hour for a van; and an extra $20 per hour for holidays. This did not sit well from some bus drivers who spoke out during the last BOE meeting.  

    “Out of district means you’re going to pay someone else more than what we make per hour,” says Kathy Belisco, Mt. Olive Transportation bus driver. “Surely us Mt. Olive bus drivers do not make that type of salary. Many of us bus drivers depend on this extra money. This is extra money for us that these bus drivers want. There are times that we’ve had absences,” she admits, but “we still get it done.” 

    With 212 more students expected to be added if the new housing development is completed in the International Trade Zone, there will be a need to expand the MO transportation bus driving staff, she says. 

    Zeier pointed out that the agreement would be for emergency purposes only, meaning MOSD would outsource Washington Twp. bus drivers only “when we do not have those resources, and everything has been exhausted.” 

    Belisco was quick to point out that “there’s been occasions where busses have been filled by other drivers and we weren’t notified of them. There’s miscommunication somewhere. There’s no reason why we shouldn’t be able to cover all these trips.” 

    Gayles confirms its purpose: “It’s to augment when all district resources are exhausted. We have people who are out sick and can’t do the run. I think it’s going to help the district all around.”    

    The transportation department has been tracking attendance and attendance is 80% when it comes to bus drivers, according to Gail Libby, MOTSD business administrator. 

    “This issue has impacted the department,” says Libby. “We just had two new drivers here in less than two months quit. Attendance is a major problem.  It’s very difficult to run a department with attendance that’s less than 80%. Things need to be addressed in the department.” 

    In response, Belisco says "I haven’ been absent one day. This is a way of circumventing a  lot of good bus drivers who don’t get the credit they deserve. We are doing the jobs. We are getting our students back and forth to school every day.”       

    To also help resolve the issue, Libby says “we’re constantly looking to hire more drivers.” It may consider more van drivers to avoid the stringent process required to receive a bus driver’s license.     

    BOE member Anthony Strillacci agrees that the issue is “We can’t just get bus drivers.” With this new agreement with Washington Twp., “no child will miss a field trip or athletic event. Don’t feel like we are working against you, because we are not.”  

    Agrees Zeier: “Don’t ever feel unappreciated,” he says to MOSD bus drivers. 

    “I do appreciate them,” says BOE Vice President Jennifer Aquino. “They always do a fantastic job.  Their concerns do not fall on deaf ears.” 

    Adds Gayles, “We truly value and appreciate everything you do to get our kids to and from school safely.”     

    Speaking about busses and safety, in other news, it was reported that 150 summonses were issued in December 2022 to motorists who illegally passed a school bus.  

    “That includes Christmas break,” says Gayles. “That’s a lot.” 

    Adds Belisco, “150 summonses, that’s from us —traveling safer — that’s extra money from us.” 

    Gayles clarifies, however, and says “MOSD doesn’t get any of that money from the summonses.”     

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    Pull Up A Stump To Learn In School’s New Outdoor Classroom

    By Cheryl Conway

    The groundhog seeing a shadow earlier this month may delay winter six more weeks but the outdoor classroom at Mountain View Elementary School in Flanders is ready for business as soon as the frigid air leaves the building!  

    After a year of planning, the Mountain View Elementary School outdoor classroom opened for business this school year. Mayor Rob Greenbaum and school officials dedicated the project and ribbon cutting back on Oct. 19, 2022.  

    With seats made of tree stumps for a full classroom of 25 students, a white board, mulch flooring and plenty of fresh air, the sky is the limit for this new outdoor classroom suitable for all grades kindergarten through fifth. 

    “It’s a creative way to make learning fun,” says Mountain View School Principal Melissa Kolenski.  

    The idea stemmed back in 2021 from one of the teachers at the school, explains Jennifer Olsyn, Mountain View vice principal and instructional supervisor. Rebecca Day, a third-grade teacher at the school, “brought it to us,” she says, with the suggestion of more science activities and hands-on learning outside.  

    Thanks to the help of various resources, the classroom came to fruition. “Community members came in to help us,” says Kolenski. Donations came from Amish Mike, a Boy Scout Troop, the school’s PTA.  

    Looking back at all the branches that came together to create the classroom, Kolenski says “We all built it.”             

    Bruno Design Associates in Chester designed the landscape of the outdoor classroom. Maintenance laid out the materials. The PTA raised funds and donated $8,000 for the project. Monies were raised from the spring virtual danceathon held in March 2021, explains Kolenski. Theme from that danceathon was against bullying and the entire school participated remotely as it was the year following the pandemic. Those funds were used to purchase the outdoor classroom whiteboard and the wood chips from Harrington Construction.  

    Amish Mike created the 4x6 all-weather enclosure for the white board that sits at the front of the classroom. 

    Boy Scout Troop #249 offered to make the natural tree stump seating which was a huge help. Process involved cutting trees, removing the tree stump from the ground, prepping and preserving it for use, drying out the material then restationing it to the site. 

    “We were going to try to do it ourselves,” says Kolenski, until they realized “we are very fortunate that one of our teachers has a Boy Scout Troop and they did it for us.” That teacher’s husband happens to be a lumber jack who owns his own tree cutting business.  

    The idea for the natural tree stump seating is original and developed from the Mountain View outdoor classroom committee, says Kolenski.        

    Two redwood tables are being purchased for $2,000 from a grant received by Sustainable Jersey. 

    While the classroom has a lot to offer, the school leaders say it is a work in progress with more additions to come.  

    There is always something “we will be adding or changing it,” says Olsyn. 

    “Our ultimate goal is to add some raised beds,” says Kolenski. “There’s always a next step, adding onto it. Phase one complete out of infinity,” she laughs. 

    The classroom and its use will vary per grade level, but the plan is for science topics, nature and growing, reading and really anything outdoorsy.  

    Being outside, with no computers in a “nice natural” setting, is the thought process here, says Kolenski. “Come out and do some work; hands-on.” 

    Olsyn hopes to maybe plant some vegetation, “a garden of sorts. We need to get in with our green team,” which is made up of about 10 teachers and two administrators.     

    The school did have a greenhouse, but it fell apart, Kolenski says, so this is a nice addition to Mountain View. She really wanted to add a pond, but due to safety precautions, that idea was nixed.  

    “Fresh air is always good for anybody,” says Kolenski. “It’s good to get kids away from computers and appreciate the outdoors.”  

    Post pandemic, teachers have been taking kids outside a lot for a snack or a walk, she says. “It’s nice to have space outside.” 

    Located in the courtyard, or nook at the rear of the school, the area is secluded from the surrounding neighborhood.  

    Having an outdoor classroom provides a “different environment, different focus, nature,” adds Olsyn. “I like that it’s a place the teachers can take the kids, a place that is different, other than their four walls. Explore out there in nature. Measure outside. Learn about the environment which is exciting for students.” 

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    Local & County News

    Mobile Service Vehicle Brings Assistance to Warren County Families

    Project Self-Sufficiency’s mobile services vehicle, PSS Journey, has added Hackettstown to the roster of municipalities it visits on a rotating basis.  Although visits have already begun, a festive grand opening celebration will be held on Tuesday, February 14, 10 a.m. – noon.  The Trinity United Methodist Church, 213 Main Street, Hackettstown, serves as the hosting site for the RV. 

     PSS Journey is a retrofitted recreational vehicle with internet access, computer workstations, and counseling and classroom space which allows Project Self-Sufficiency services to be brought to locations where residents may not have easy access to personal vehicles or public transportation.  In addition to Hackettstown, the schedule includes stops in Franklin, Hopatcong, Netcong and Vernon.

    The RV, and its smaller companion, the refrigerated Food Project van, is stocked with food, diapers, and limited personal care products for those in need.

    PSS Journey, launched nearly five years ago, was the brainchild of longtime Project Self-Sufficiency staff member Patrice Green who identified a need for mobile services in northern New Jersey.

    Individuals and families are encouraged to check the Project Self-Sufficiency website, or their own municipal websites, for the itinerary.  PSS Journey also has its own Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/PSSJourney. 

     “Project Self-Sufficiency has been serving individuals and families in northwestern New Jersey for 35 years,” commented Project Self-Sufficiency Executive Director Deborah Berry-Toon. “However, not everyone has the ability to travel to our Newton campus, so we are delighted to be able to bring these essential programs to other regions like Hackettstown. Since its debut five years ago, PSS Journey has offered food, resources, and support to thousands of residents in our area. We are grateful to the municipalities which have embraced our vision for mobile community outreach, and we are looking forward to making new friends in the Hackettstown area.” 

    To create PSS Journey, funding from Impact 100 Garden State, a New Jersey women’s philanthropic organization, was used to purchase and retrofit a used recreational vehicle with internet access, computer workstations, and counseling and classroom space.

    Funding for Journey in Hackettstown is provided by the County of Warren through the Department of Human Services Division of Administration. 

    Signature Culinary Fundraising Event Celebrates 25th Anniversary

    The 25th anniversary of northwestern New Jersey’s premier culinary fundraising event, A Taste of Talent, will be held at Perona Farms in Andover on behalf of local non-profit agency Project Self-Sufficiency on Monday, May 1, at 6 p.m.  Patrons are invited to mingle with chefs from approximately 50 celebrated area restaurants while feasting on appetizers, entrees, and desserts.  The epicurean event raises funds for the non-profit agency which specializes in services for low-income families in Sussex, Morris, Hunterdon and Warren.  Sponsorships for A Taste of Talent range from $500 - $25,000.  The event will take place indoors and outside at the venue.  Volunteer musicians will entertain guests by performing throughout the facility.  

    “For 25 years, A Taste of Talent has been our signature fundraising event and the cornerstone of our annual campaign,” noted Deborah Berry-Toon, executive director of Project Self-Sufficiency.  “Funds raised by A Taste of Talent make it possible for Project Self-Sufficiency to provide the programs and services necessary for families in northwestern New Jersey to attain economic self-sufficiency.  We continue to be humbled by the support we are receiving from the restaurateurs in our area, and we are looking forward to a delightful event.”  

     Select donation categories are available for A Taste of Talent, ranging from $500 - $25,000.  A limited number of tickets for individual donations are available at a cost of $250.  To make a contribution to Project Self-Sufficiency, to obtain tickets to A Taste of Talent, or to find out more information about the programs and services available at the agency, visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org or call 973-940-3500.   

    Project Self-Sufficiency is a community-based non-profit organization which specializes in services for low-income families in northwestern New Jersey.  Programs offered at Project Self-Sufficiency include family literacy education, computer training and job placement services, assistance with parenting skills, childcare, counseling and advocacy, referrals, and help with emergency basic needs.    

    All you can eat, bring a friend or 2!!!Musconetcong Lodge #42 in Budd Lake is hosting its January breakfast this Sunday to help defray the Lodge building overhead

    Sunday February 19

    8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
    Menu includes: 

    Scrambled Eggs, Pancakes, Texas French Toast, Home Fries, Belgian Waffles with Homemade Strawberry sauce and whipped cream, Bacon, Sausage & Pork Roll 

    Orange Juice, Apple Juice, Chocolate Milk, Coffee, Tea

    $10 per person, $9 senior (+62), $5 (children age 4-10), under 4 free

    All you can eat, bring a friend or 2!!!

    Mayo Performing Arts Center Plans March Events

     

    Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) in Morristown brings Irish step dancers, Bollywood theatrics, Hamilton’s original Aaron Burr and cats – lots of cats to the stage in March! 

    Tickets for all events are available at www.MayoArts.Org or by calling the box office at 973-539-8008. 

    Please note that MPAC’s schedule is subject to change.  

    Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis  

    Friday, March 3 at 8 p.m. 

    Grammy-winning trumpeter Wynton Marsalis leads the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, 15 of today’s finest jazz soloists and ensemble players, who perform the music of the great jazz composers as well as original works that foster an appreciation for this American music genre.  Limited tickets are $59-$99.  

    The Cat in the Hat 

    Sunday, March 5, at 1:30 pm and 4:30 p.m. 

    A boring, rainy afternoon turns into an amazing, mischievous, and hilarious adventure when The Cat in the Hat comes calling. Ages 3-8. Cost is $12-$15. 

    Cats 

    Friday, March 10 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, March 11 at 8 p.m.; Sunday, March 12 at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. 

    Rediscover CATS—the beloved musical with breathtaking music—including one of the most treasured songs in musical theater, "Memory.” Featuring new sound design, direction and choreography for a new generation — experience CATS for the first time as it begins a new life, or let it thrill you all over again! Tickets are  

    $69-$109. 

    Dublin Irish Dance presents “Wings” 

    Thursday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. 

    Featuring world champion dancers, Ireland’s finest musical and vocal virtuosos, and original music and choreography, this Celtic celebration thrills audiences with its transformative emotional and imaginative energy as it showcases Ireland’s rich cultural heritage. Tickets are $29-$59. 

    Disney’s Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation
    Saturday, March 18 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. 

    Disney's iconic Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, and Owl (oh… and don't forget Tigger too!) are featured in a beautifully crafted musical stage adaptation. Featuring the Sherman Brothers' classic Grammy-award winning music with further songs by A.A. Milne, this beautiful stage adaptation is told with stunning life-sized puppetry through the eyes of the characters we all know and love, in a new story from the Hundred Acre Wood. Ages 3-12. Tickets are $19-$79. 

    The Hit Men: The Ultimate Rock Concert 

    Saturday, March 25 at 8 p.m. 

    Relive rock’s greatest hits with The Hit Men – five fantastic musicians who have shared the stage with legendary artists including Foreigner, Cheap Trick, Wings, Alan Parsons, Billy Joel, Sting, Elton John, Journey, The Who and Cream.  The Hit Men share their first-hand experiences as eyewitnesses to rock history, and perform classic hits you know and love, such as “Don’t Stop Believin,” “Feels Like The First Time,” “Eye in the Sky” and many more, just the way you remember them. Limited tickets are $39-$59. Ages 4+. 

    Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band: Trouble Is 25th Anniversary Tour 

    Thursday, March 30 at 8 p.m.  

    Kenny Wayne Shepherd has established himself as an immensely popular recording artist, a consistently in-demand live act and an influential force in a worldwide resurgence of the blues. The Louisiana-born axeman shines a light on the rich blues of the past and while forging ahead with his own modern twist on a classic sound.  Shepherd will perform his album Trouble Is as well as other fan favorites. Tickets are $49-$99. 


    An Evening with Leslie Odom, Jr. 

    Friday, March 31, at 8 p.m. 

    Leslie Odom, Jr., best known for his Tony-winning role as “Aaron Burr” in Hamilton, performs a mix of jazz-influenced soul, pop, standards and more with his band. Tickets are $69-$129. 

    Mayo Performing Arts Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey. The 2022-2023 season is made possible, in part, by a grant the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as support received from the F.M. Kirby Foundation, The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation and numerous corporations, foundations and individuals. 

    Morris County Chamber of Commerce Hosts 102nd Annual Meeting

    John Krickus presents State of the Union Address.   


    The Morris County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) celebrated its 102nd Anniversary by hosting its annual luncheon on Feb. 2, drawing a crowd of more than 400 attendees to the Hanover Marriot Hotel in Whippany to celebrate the achievements of individuals and businesses from throughout the county. 

    Morris County Commissioner Director John Krickus delivered some remarks on the 2023 State of Morris County, touting one of the lowest crime rates in the state, low property taxes, low unemployment, the largest county park system in New Jersey. 

    “Morris County and towns are recognized as the safest, healthiest and quietist,” he said, noting the latter ranking of quietest was a recent designation bestowed on his hometown of Washington Township. 

    He also proudly pointed out that Morris County has maintained a AAA bond rating for 47 years – a higher bond rating than the United States as a whole – and that the 2023 Morris County budget will include no tax increase for the fourth year in a row. 

    “In contrast, county taxes are 70 percent higher in neighboring counties to the east,” said Krickus. “This is a value proposition everyone can stand behind.” 

    Meghan Hunscher, president and CEO of the MCCC and Economic Development Committee (EDC) delivered her State of the Chamber address, acknowledging many of the local business and community leaders making an impact in Morris County.  

    This year’s keynote address was delivered by Michael Geraghty, acting deputy director the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security, as well as chief information security officer for the State of NJ and Director of NJ Cybersecurity & Communications Integration. 

    His remarks, entitled “Navigating the Year Ahead - What Business Leaders Need to Know to Prepare,” focused on the changing landscape of terrorism in the United States, in a shift towards what he referred to as “homegrown terrorism” brought about by the pandemic and tendency for society to be online. As the world becomes more connected technologically, cybersecurity becomes harder to control due to the threat environment increasing, said Geraghty. 

    Hacking usually isn’t a technology issue itself, he warned, but instead human vulnerability. 

    “With ransomware, everyone is a target,” said Geraghty. “It’s not necessarily how valuable you are, but how vulnerable you are.” 

    The most vulnerable target for a ransomware attack by a wide margin: School systems. One of the biggest challenges for combatting these attacks has been the lack of reporting. He compared the effort to neighborhood watch: If someone is breaking into a neighbor’s house and it’s reported, it’s more likely the criminal will be caught. 

    Likewise, if incidents of cyber-attacks are reported, it limits the number of attacks as the cybercriminals hacking one system are usually repeat offenders. As the convergence of everything physical into a cyber world continues and we have “smart cities,” everything will be connected but not necessarily secured. 

    To combat this growing problem, government alone will not be enough; a collective defense amongst citizens is needed. He encouraged everyone to report suspicious cyber activities to the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell to support their effort to identify cybercriminals. 

    The event began with a flag salute led by the Picatinny Arsenal Color Guard as the Morris County Academy for Performing Arts Choir sang the national anthem. 

    The Saint Clare's Health William P. Huber Award for Outstanding Community Leadership was presented to Marc Adee, chair and CEO of Crum & Forster (C&F). Under Adee’s leadership, C&F employees are given the ability to participate in company-wide giving via a number of programs, donations and local events. In addition to monetary donations, employees contributed more than 200 volunteer hours to organizations in the Morris County area in 2022. 

    Learning From Failures

    Learning From Failures

    Learning From Failures

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


    Are you Willing to Fail?

    If you are living life, you have had failures, made mistakes and had setbacks.

    To fail means you have tried.

    You have stepped out of your comfort zone, felt overwhelmed by fear and anxiety, embraced those feelings and moved forward anyway.

    To fail means you put the effort and hard work into something that was important to you.

    You realized just doing the work and trying no matter what the final outcome was is enough to give you feelings of accomplishment and pride.

    By taking a risk you were open to being criticized, judged and/or rejected but you did it anyway.

    Even if you failed, you found out that you were courageous and resilient.

    After it's over, no matter the outcome you have grown, learned something about yourself and the situation.

    The failure became a teachable/learnable moment. That sounds like a huge win in the game of taking risks.

    Are you willing to fail?

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

    College News

    Centenary University Marks Black History Month

    Centenary University in Hackettstown  will mark Black History Month with a series of historical displays, events, and film screenings designed to celebrate Black history and culture, as well as to encourage dialogue about important societal issues including racism and colorism.  

    The month began on Feb. 2 with an evening of soul food, music, and games to highlight the culinary traditions of West Africa, Western Europe, and the Americas. Students learned that the cuisine originated in the deep south, but the comfort of soul food and the delicious recipes traveled with millions of African Americans as they moved to the North, Midwest, and West during the Great Migration. 

    Upcoming Black History Month activities include:

    Dialogues & Deeds: Colorism, Wednesday, Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m., Board Room, David and Carol Lackland Center. Colorism is prejudice or discrimination against individuals based on skin tone, often among people of the same ethnic or racial group. Colorism is racism and its effects in our society are felt by those in our community and should be recognized. Dialogues & Deeds creates a safe space for students, faculty, and staff to participate in civil discussions about topics that are important and relevant to students.   


     

    Cent Cinema: Till—Thursday, Feb. 16, 8 p.m., The Little Theater, Edward W. Seay Administration Building. Screening of the 2022 film, which focuses on the 1955 lynching of 14-year-old Emmett Till while visiting his cousins in Mississippi. The movie shares the true story of Mamie Till Mobley's pursuit of justice. As Mamie turns her grief into action, the audience witnesses a mother's ability to change the world. 

    Dialogue & Deeds: Urban Trauma, Tuesday, Feb. 21, 8:30 p.m., Student Activities Center, Edward W. Seay Administration Building. Maysa Akbar coined the phrase “urban trauma” in 2017 with her book, Urban Trauma: A Legacy of Racism. Poverty, overcrowded housing, poor physical health, poor mental health, violence, and drugs perpetuate trauma in urban areas. The effects of that trauma must be carried throughout life. While some people are able to break the cycle, others are not. Sharing experiences and discussing urban trauma is a way to recognize the trauma and help break the ongoing cycle. 



    Harlem Nights – Thursday, Feb. 23, 8 p.m., Front Parlors, Edward W. Seay Administration Building. An elegant evening that pays homage to African American history and culture, including a cocktail hour, formal dinner, and entertainment.  

    Cent Cinema: Emancipation—Tuesday, Feb. 28, 8 p.m., The Little Theater, Edward W. Seay Administration Building. Released in 2022, Emancipation tells the story of Gordon, a Black slave who runs away and journeys through Louisiana swamps to live a life with honor and dignity. He risks his life to join the Union Army and fight to free his brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters.   

    Friday Film Club—Fridays in February & March, 2 p.m. in The Multicultural Room, Edward W. Seay Administration Building. Art is one of the most powerful tools to influence social change and popular culture. Films, as an art form, are current and easily accessible for students. The Friday Film Club allows the campus to participate in powerful conversations that help to build community: 

    Friday, Feb. 10—Two Distant Strangers 

    Friday, Feb. 17—Monster 

    Friday, Feb. 24—Just Mercy  

    Friday, March 3—Hidden Figures  

    Black History Book Display, month of February, Taylor Memorial Library. Display of Black history book collection at Centenary University’s Taylor Memorial Library. Open to the public. 



    Centenary Offers New Scholarship For Fashion Design

    Centenary University in Hackettstown has announced a new scholarship that will be offered to the winners of the fashion design event at the FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America) New Jersey spring conference. 

    The university will provide the winner of the prestigious competition with a $3,000 scholarship, while the second and third place winners will receive scholarships of $2,000 and $1,000. All three scholarships will be renewable for four years. To qualify, high school seniors must place in the top three at the FCCLA’s competition in March and choose to study fashion at Centenary University. 

    “The criteria for the FCCLA event is very stringent,” explained Meghan Reeves, assistant professor of costume design at Centenary, who is the university’s liaison with the organization. “Students who are enrolled in high school fashion programs work for most of the school year on a design portfolio, as well as their presentation skills. At the competition, they must present their portfolio to a panel of judges. It really prepares students for the rigors of a college fashion program.” 

    Centenary University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion is the only degree-granting program in New Jersey and is one of only a few programs with a strong liberal arts component. The degree features concentrations in design and merchandising and emphasizes hands-on training. Centenary fashion students have access to job shadowing experiences with industry professionals, as well as internships in the New York metropolitan area and other regions of the United States, as well as Europe and Asia. 

    The university is a member of the National Retail Federation, the world’s largest retail trade association composed of a diverse community with thousands of leading retailers and industry professionals. 

       

    Budd Lake Teen Named PATH Intl. Youth Equestrian of the Year

    Adopted from Mariupol, Ukraine, Vika Christian has overcome physical and emotional challenges to claim top honor from international equestrian organization. 


    By Rose Duger

     

    When Vika Christian was 5, she and her mother were watching a horse show on television. The winner was introduced as “the greatest equestrian in the world,” prompting Vika to burst into tears. “But I’m the greatest equestrian!” declared the youngster, who had started therapeutic riding lessons to address physical and emotional challenges after her recent adoption from Mariupol, Ukraine. 

    A decade later, Vika’s proclamation has come true: PATH Intl. recently named her its Youth Equestrian of the Year. The international organization leads the advancement of professional equine-assisted services to support more than 53,000 special needs individuals, including nearly 6,000 veterans, through a variety of equine-assisted services. 

    The teen from Budd Lake rides with Centenary University’s TRAC (Therapeutic Riding At Centenary) program at the University’s Equestrian Center in Washington Twp. Centenary’s accredited adaptive riding program has provided children and adults with equestrian experiences that can result in physical, social-emotional, and cognitive benefits, while enhancing goals such as balance, strength, and sensory integration. Centenary is a higher education member of PATH Intl. 

    Karen Brittle, assistant professor of equine studies and director of TRAC, said, “Anyone who has ever asked how therapeutic riding benefits participants needs to watch Vika interact with horses and ride. Her joy, skill, and sense of accomplishment radiate. The connection, focus, discipline, goal-setting, and physical strength gained by working on riding skills have transferred to support broader life goals.” 

    Vika was born with septo-optic dysplasia, which has left her legally blind. She also copes daily with reactive attachment disorder, a common condition in children institutionalized at a young age that makes it difficult to trust others. Recalling her first day at the barn, Vika said, “I was very little and very scared of everything. I just came to America and didn’t know how to talk well and couldn’t see well. There were people I didn’t know, and the horses were big. When I get scared, I do things that people think are naughty, but they aren’t. I am just scared.  


    “My teacher, Octavia Brown, put me on a horse named Lucy. I was loud and yelled and pulled on the reins and wasn’t gentle at all. Lucy kept me safe, even though I wasn’t being nice to her. When I noticed this, I trusted her and she became my first best friend. I could talk to her and she listened to me. Now, I am proud to win this award from PATH Intl., while people in Ukraine win the war.” 

    Slowly, Vika learned to trust her TRAC instructors, opening the door for her to interact with other riders, attend camps and compete at horse shows. Eventually, she started to make friends at the barn and at school. When things became overwhelming, Vika would turn to her first friend, Lucy, pouring out her heart to the horse, who offered nonjudgmental support. 

    Kayla Thau, a TRAC instructor and 2021 Centenary University graduate, noted how deeply Vika cares about the well-being of the horses, as well as her progress in the ring: “It has been inspiring to observe her growth as an equestrian and related increase in self-confidence. Every goal that Vika has not only influences her riding and horse skills, but also her life outside of the arena. It is an honor as an instructor to be able to help propel those goals into motion and watch the unbridled joy as she wins a blue ribbon in the show ring.”  

    Vika has set many ambitious goals for the future, including someday attending Centenary University to pursue a career working with horses. Vika’s mother, Nancy Christian, said her daughter still faces emotional and academic challenges, but has an extremely competitive nature and is laser-focused on success: “Riding has been key to Vika’s success in everything she’s done. She has taken this recognition from PATH Intl. very seriously; with this award comes the responsibility that she is now a role model for others. I’m just completely overwhelmed with how far she’s come.” 

    For Vika, the years of training, blue ribbons at horse shows, and now an international award have resulted in the recognition that success comes down to trusting both yourself and others. In her acceptance speech, she said, “I am proud to accept this award, but PATH Intl. has given me more than an award. It has taught me trust—how to trust my horse, people, and myself.”  

    CCM and ESU Collaborate on Faculty Art and Design Exhibition

     Hrvoje Slovenc, of CCM, Still-life with Venus de Milo, Broken Plant, Modem and Bubbles, color negative pigmented ink print leaning on a sheet of metal  


    Gain new insight into the stretching of boundaries in contemporary art and design as demonstrated by faculty from both County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph and East Stroudsburg University (ESU) at the first spring semester show at CCM’s Art Gallery. 

    The East Stroudsburg University & County College of Morris Collaborative Faculty Exhibition now on display runs through Thursday, February 23.  

    The exhibition features work from faculty members in the Art & Design department at CCM and the Art+Media+Design department at ESU. 

    “This is truly a collaborative effort between two preeminent schools of art and design in the Northern New Jersey/Eastern Pennsylvania region,” says Brian Sahotsky, professor of Visual Arts and gallery director.



    Darlene Farris-LaBar, of ESU, Shoal Spider Lily, from 3D Field Guides Series, 3D Modelled and Printed, 2021.  


    “The aim of this exhibition is to showcase the quality work of each school’s faculty and to cultivate a reciprocal relationship between like-minded institutions. The creativity and uniqueness of the work is a testament to a pair of interdisciplinary faculties interested in testing the boundaries of contemporary art and design.” 

    The exhibition showcases the works from inter-related disciplines and includes traditional wall-hung pieces, gaming displays, photographic installations, jewelry design, industrial design, virtual reality mock-ups, audio/performance pieces, 3D printed sculpture, graphic design logo boards, costume design and several multimedia pieces. 

    “It is a truly special occasion when professional educators can come together to produce such an interesting and varied showcase of art and design,” notes Sahotsky. 

    The Art Gallery is located in the Learning Resource Center on CCM’s campus, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Gallery hours are Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

    For information on CCM’s Art & Design programs, visit http://bit.ly/CCM_ArtandDesign. 

    CCM & Ramapo Sign N.J.s First Data Science Transfer Agreement

    From left, Dr. Cindy Jebb, president of Ramapo College; Ramapo Professor of Mathematics Amanda Beecher; Thomas Ortega, data science student at Ramapo; CCM Professor of Mathematics Kelly Fitzpatrick; and Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM, at the signing of the Data Science Transfer Agreement.


    Recognizing the significance of this dynamic industry, Ramapo College of New Jersey in Mahwah and County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph have joined forces to create pathways for aspiring data scientists to earn a master’s in data science in as little as five years.  

    The presidents of CCM and Ramapo on February 1 signed a Data Science Transfer Agreement, the first between a community college and a four-year institution in New Jersey. Known as a 2+2+1 agreement, the partnership will allow students to begin their education at CCM to earn their associate degree in computer science and then seamlessly transfer to Ramapo to earn their bachelor’s degree and then a master’s in data science if they wish.  

    Thomas Ortega, of Randolph, a graduate from Morris Hills High School and CCM, is in his fourth year in the 2+2+1 program. Ortega, who also serves as the founder and President of the Ramapo College Data Science Club, shared, “My pathway between County College of Morris and Ramapo College has been a wonderful experience that has provided me with a great start to my data science career. With an engaging faculty, I always feel that I have the support I need to pursue hands-on data science projects.” 

    By taking a number of graduate courses as an undergraduate at Ramapo, the master’s can be completed in one year. By starting at a community college and then earning a master’s in a year, students can enjoy significant savings on their higher education. Students are not required to earn a master’s and can opt instead to earn a bachelor’s only. 

    “We’re pleased to be offering this opportunity for CCM students to seamlessly continue their data science higher education at Ramapo College so they can take advantage of a wide range of career opportunities,” said Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM. “We’re proud to enhance our relationship with such a great institution that also builds upon our reputation as the best community college in the state for transfer students.” 

    Among the first institutions in New Jersey to offer advanced degrees in data science, Ramapo's Master of Science in Data Science program is nationally ranked a Top 30 Master’s program by Fortune Magazine, making it the #1 graduate data science program in New Jersey. According to Fortune’s analysis, data science is one of the fastest growing fields due to the increasing volume of data generated every day, which is “creating a steep demand for workers that can harness, analyze and create value from the data available.”  

    Dr. Cindy Jebb, president of Ramapo, said, “Ramapo looks forward to welcoming CCM graduates to our data science programs. Our Center of Data, Mathematical & Computational Sciences, which is home to our data science programs, is at the cutting edge of preparing undergraduate and graduate students to be highly skilled and ethical problem solvers by teaching them how to apply technical and interdisciplinary concepts to real-world challenges.”  

    The strength of Ramapo combined with the strength of CCM, which is nationally rated the Best for Transfer Students in New Jersey by Intelligent, has created thoughtful, accessible and seamless pathways for students to pursue their studies in this high-demand growth industry. With the addition of this data science 2+2+1 agreement, CCM now has more than 170 transfer agreements to ease the process of earning an associate and then a bachelor’s degree. 

    To learn more about the Computer Science Program at CCM, visit https://bit.ly/CCMComputerScience. To learn about the Data Science programs at Ramapo, visit https://www.ramapo.edu/dmc/. 

    CCM, Cultural Center and Churches Partner to Help Ukrainians

     Viktoriia Zolotarova in the hallway of the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey where she is learning English after being forced to leave her country.  

     

    By Kathleen Brunet

     

    When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Khrystyna Sloan, 38, of Morris Plains, a student at County College of Morris (CCM), found herself frightened, horrified and depressed over what was happening to the people in her home country. Meanwhile in Ukraine, Viktoriia Zolotarova, 51, found her region the site of massive missile attacks that destroyed the area’s electrical, gas, water and communications systems, along with hospitals, schools, banks, bridges and her home. 

    “Rockets, bombs from planes, including banned phosphorus bombs . . . all this rained down from the sky nonstop,” recalls Zolotarova, of Stanhope, communicating with the assistance of a translator. 

    Hearing of such atrocities, Sloan, who had left Ukraine at age 22, made a decision. “I could either remain depressed or focus on positivity,” she says. Her answer was to serve as a volunteer at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey (UACCNJ) in Whippany. There she has helped organize fundraisers and collections to send an ambulance, bus, clothes, toys, diapers and other essential items to the people of Ukraine, an ongoing effort. To help those who had fled the country as refugees, she became part of a group that approached CCM about providing free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at UACCNJ, so parents can learn while their children participate in other activities. 

    Irena Kaler, director of Workforce Development and Community Partnerships at CCM, says they initially expected about 20 students would enroll for the classes – beginners and intermediate – that began in November. They ended up with more than double that amount, requiring opening another session of each class. 


    Khrystyna Sloan in a room housing donation for the people of Ukraine collected by the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey.   


    “The classes offered by CCM are a huge help for me and others,” says Zolotarova, who while in Ukraine was the director of Europe’s largest insurance group and is now a part-time cashier at Dollar General.  “This is a huge help to Ukrainian refugees who were left without a home and whose lives were shattered to pieces.” 

    She adds, “I am very grateful for the opportunity to study for free because at the moment I earn no more than $700 a month and cannot pay for my studies, and I need English like air.” 

    Helping to cover the cost of instructors and textbooks are the pastors and church members of the Presbytery of the Highlands of New Jersey. 

    “The people in our church pews are heartbroken by the extent of the tragedy our neighbors in Ukraine are experiencing,” shares Pastor Sarah Cairatti from the First Presbyterian Church of Whippany. “The generosity of the area Presbyterian churches to support the ESL classes offered by CCM is completely heartwarming, but not surprising. Their gifts and support are truly the arms and legs of their sincere and constant prayers.” 

    So far more than $3,000 has been contributed to provide ESL classes at UACCNJ. Kaler notes, however, that as more Ukrainian refugees come into the area the demand will grow, and those in the beginner-level classes also will need to continue to advance. 

    Zolotarova, who holds degrees in chemical engineering and banking from Ukraine, has no plans to return to her home country. Her hope now is to rebuild her life in the U.S. 

    “My home and region are completely destroyed,” says Zolotarova. “Only ruins remain. Now I am building my life in the USA from scratch. My dream is to go to college to get a degree in order to build a career in the USA.” 

    Donations to support the ESL classes at UACCNJ can be made via the CCM Foundation at https://bit.ly/CCMFoundation-Donate; note in the Other Designation field that the funds are to go to “UACCNJ ESL Classes.” To support the UACCNJ programs to assist the people of Ukraine, go to https://uaccnj.org/. 

    Assemblywoman Dunn Displays Artwork of CCM Students

    Assemblywoman Aura Dunn has once again opened her Chester office to exhibit the work of six art students from County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph, allowing the public to view and enjoy pastel landscapes created by these talented artists. This is the fourth time Dunn is hosting an art exhibition by CCM students. 

    “Having this student exhibition at Assemblywoman Dunn’s office is a terrific way for the public to gain exposure to the work of CCM Fine Arts students,” says Fine Arts Professor Todd Doney. “Many people go in and out of the office daily and since the work is displayed in the waiting area the pieces can be easily viewed. We are all very happy to continue this partnership.”  

    The students from Doney’s fall 2022 Drawing 2 class were asked to explore and portray the beauty of Morris County in their work. The exhibition features the work of the following students: 

    · A Smile Worth Millions by Skylar M. Badia of Pine Brook 

    · Calm Down by Stephanie Goebel of Mine Hill 

    · Sunset Street by Christine R. Hamilton of Randolph 

    · Lake Arrowhead by Caterina D. Leff of Denville 

    · Untitled by Fabrizio J. Rufasto of Randolph 

    · Horseshoe Sunset by Christopher J. Wright of Mt. Olive 

    The exhibition will run through May at Dunn’s office at 191 Main Street, Suite D, in Chester. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

    For more information about CCM’s Art and Design programs, visit http://bit.ly/CCMArtandDesign. 


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