Mt. Olive Online Publication January 13, 2023

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CMS Celebrates Kindness With Annual Event

By Cheryl Conway

Second graders, teachers, the school community and all whose lives were touched were smiling under their masks on March 25, during the Chester M. Stephens Kindness Celebration.

Held every year for the past dozen years, the CMS Kindness Tour is just that…one-of-a-kind. This was the 13th year for the elementary school’s traditional event. Due to COVID 19, the tour was held virtually for the second year in a row.

Near or far, virtual or in-person, kindness is the key element that is embraced, taught, learned and carried on every year with the CMS Kindness "Tour,” this year renamed as a celebration.

“The theme of kindness launches our school year and finishes our school year,” says CMS Second Grade Teacher Ann M. Scotland, founder and organizer of the CMS Kindness Tour. “We look for it and celebrate it every single day. Sometimes we see it in each other, stories we read, and or at home. That’s why we wanted to celebrate it… as it turns out it is a key ingredient daily. The children understand that it makes a huge difference in all that we do.”

This year the tour was held earlier in the school calendar, on March 25, explains Scotland, just to make sure there was enough time to celebrate.   

“Field trips are not permitted at this time due to the pandemic,” she says. “A good chunk of children were back in school. You never know when that could change. Now was the time.”

All five second grade classes at CMS participated in the celebration, she says. About 63 students were in person and the rest shared in it virtually. The event took up the entire school day. 

This year’s celebration involved Kindness t-shirts, serenading, butterfly magnet clips, heart shaped pretzels, fundraiser for children in Uganda, outreach to homeless people in New York City, money and canned goods for the food pantry, positive messages displayed and kindness bags to neighbors.       

Celebration Breakdown 

“All the kids were given shirts that they voted on,” explains Scotland. “The shirts said: “Plant Kindness/ Gather Love… with the image of a tree on it. In the center of the tree was a heart. They all got one… whether they participated from home or in school. These were gifted to us by the NJEA.”

A kindness pledge was shared during school announcements: “I pledge to myself, on this very day, to try to be kind, in every way, to every person, big or small, I will help them, if they fall. When I love myself, and others, too, that is the best, that I can do!”

First graders were also included under the second graders wing.

“Second graders made butterfly magnet clips for their first-grade friends in their school wing “Buddy Boulevard,” explains Scotland. “They were clipped on a board that said: ‘Soar High With Kindness, Love a flutter of second grade friends.’ Our students wanted to encourage their younger peers to live their best “ME” by incorporating kindness in their day.”

Songs Spread Kindness. 

“Our music teacher Mr. Christopher King taught the children the song “You Got a Friend In Me” from Toy Story,” says Scotland. “He took a few 2nd grade classes at a time down the hallways of our school singing Christmas Carol Style. Classrooms had their doors open so they could hear the friendly reminder that we need to stick together and support one another. K-5th grade was offered this encouragement with the message and melody presented outside their classroom door.

“After returning to class we had individually wrapped heart shape pretzels from Philly Pretzel Factory in Hackettstown,” what a kind gesture.

Students at CMS stretched their wings of kindness to help their peers in Uganda, a country in East-Central Africa. They helped raise money for Love +One International, an organization that provides medical care to critically ill children in Uganda.

“After learning about the program for children in Uganda, the students were invited to bring in $1,” says Scotland. “We collected $182.80. They then made helping hands to send to the organization with our money raised.” The students had explored slides weeks prior to the celebration to learn about needs of children in Uganda.

They learned that $10 can provide rice for five children for one week; $25 pays for one medical visit and treatment; $50 pays school fees and requirements for one child, for one term; $100 provides food for one family for a month.

Feeding The Hungry

CMS students reached a little closer to home by supporting a local food pantry and homeless in N.Y., as they have done in previous Kindness Tours.

“After lunch students watched a video about a group known as “The Midnight Run;” they bring clothing and food to the homeless in NYC every two weeks,” explains Scotland. “After learning about this mission, the children decorated lunch bags with encouraging messages and illustrations. These bags will be given to the Midnight Run crew to place meals in.

“We also continued with the message: Plant a seed of kindness and watch it grow. All month we had a “garden.” Kids would plant canned goods in it. These goods will be donated to the Food Pantry at Trinity Church that supports Mt. Olive and other surrounding towns. We also gave a $300 Shoprite gift card using grant money towards this endeavor.”

Pictures Breed Kindness 

“Thankfully it was a beautiful day outside,” says Scotland. “We were able to go outside with sidewalk chalk and create heartwarming messages with pictures and our words for kids to see when leaving for home on the buses.”

For fun and learning, students played Kindness Bingo, featuring a bingo board that “highlighted individuals that spread positivity in our world (past and present/ Nonfiction/Fiction).” Individuals included noteworthy figures such as Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., parents, teachers, doctors, nurses, service men and women, scientists, Ruby Bridges, Harriet Tubman, President Abraham Lincoln, Jackie Robinson, President George Washington, police officers and more.

Sharing With Neighbors

“Every child went home with a Kindness Bag to distribute to a neighbor,” says Scotland. “At the start of the week, the children filled it with our garden themed supplies…Tissue flowers, seeds & note, butterfly garden decoration, a decorated rock with words of wisdom, rainbows and a challenge card. Neighbors are challenged to keep the kindness going.”

Neighbors were given goodies, asked to refill the bag or create their own act of kindness, share with another neighbor, place a rainbow in their window or a yard sign to encourage kindness.

Kindness Needed More Than Ever

“We need to heal and learn from this past year,” says Scotland. “I hope that we never lose site as to how love and kindness played a huge role in finding strength. We can be a gift to each other if we choose to be.”

Despite COVID 19 and all of its limitations, the annual Kindness event could not be missed.

"COVID is now in their life story,” says Scotland. “How they walk away from it is critical to how they move forward. Highlighting the importance of kindness helps them to see the “color” in the world, not the darkness. These kids recognize how so many community members used their goodness blended with talents to support others. How we handle challenges can create a healthy change. There is strength knowing that they can be a part of the solution.”

With many kids still learning virtually, Scotland did face a few challenges to pull off a successful day like “Making sure that all of the students were able to share in the day. Having materials ready for our virtual learners so that he/she could participate from home. Simply not knowing if there wasn’t going to be a disruption in our day due to Covid/closing. Making sure that our boys and girls participated, yet stayed in the boundaries of keeping safe.” Scotland used the best technology given the circumstances so all students could partake in the Kindness Celebration.

"ll of the boys and girls are a member of their Google Classroom,” says Scotland. "The virtual learners were “on” all day long taking part from home. They had their shirts and all of the supplies they needed. Even when singing in the hall, they came along."

Even under their masks, kindness could not be shuttered.

"I loved the caroling down the hall led by Mr. King,” says Scotland. “I am grateful that we could still include music in this unique way. I think their little voices (even behind masks) have a profound effect on the audience. It brightens the day. The children were very in tune with the lyrics and the message that it provided.

"I also love all the side conversations that I was able to hear,” she continues. "They are very confirming about the benefits of the experience. Finally, when I reflect on the day… it is truly amazing all that we can do as one.”

Final Reflections and Lessons Learned

"I read this quote… ‘A World of Love, Makes A World of Difference,’” says Scotland.  “I want them to know that they have the choice to make kindness a verb… they can be the “color” in the world.”

Community support over the years has been tremendous.

"The community is always so supportive,” says Scotland. "Donations, signs, words of encouragement are always extended. Julie Corsey had a daughter participate in the tour years ago, her daughter is now 17. The year her daughter shared in the tour, they surprised the 2nd grade teachers and students by putting yard signs up and down Sunset Drive leading into the school. One beautiful sign after the next.  Every year since, the street is filled with signs to greet us as we start the day.

"This year was no different,” she continues. “When leaving school on Thursday, I drove up Sunset one last time before heading home. Families were out for walks pausing to read the signs. Each message encouraging kindness. It was a beautiful moment to witness at the end of a beautiful day. Kindness lasts a lifetime if we welcome it in. The invite was up and down the street because this lesson stayed with a student and her family. That is the value of my job. Amazing!” 

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    Welcome readers to the 66th issue of Mt. Olive Online.

    Proposed School Budget Reloads Curriculum, Technology & $$

    Public Hearing on Proposed Budget Set For Monday April 26

    By Cheryl Conway   


    Not all members are on board for the preliminary budget introduced at the last Mt. Olive Board of Education meeting.

    Two actually jumped off the spending track that carries a $203 annual increase in school taxes for the average property in Mt. Olive. 

    The BOE voted 7-2 to approve the 2021-2022 tentative budget at the March 22 meeting held at the Mt. Olive Middle School in Budd Lake. Board members Dr. Antoine Gayles and Elizabeth Ouimet voted against the $104.6 million total base spending package.

    The total operating budget for 2020-2021, generated on April 29, 2020, was $93.6 million.   

    More than 40 people, mostly parents, attended the meeting that ran more than four hours. Hot topics taken away from the evening included the budget; vandalism report; curriculum updates that steer more students to engage in AP courses with less offerings at the honors’ level; and request for more transparency on personnel agenda items so BOE members can be informed on what they are voting on.

    The BOE meeting can be viewed in its entirety by going to  https://www.youtube.com/MtOliveTelevision

    The last meeting was held on the evening that all students returned to school for a traditional day with social distancing after a year-long pandemic disrupted normal operations within the Mt. Olive School District.

    “Things went swimmingly today,” says Mt. Olive Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Zywicki at the beginning of his report.  “It was great to see our kids back in school today.”  He shared the optimism of one Chester M. Stephen’s Elementary student who said: “Everything is better when I’m back at school with all my friends.”

    Zywicki continued his report by introducing the proposed 2021-2022 Mt. Olive School District budget. He mentions the six goals that drive the budget for the district’s strategic plan.

    Last year the district switched to Zero Based Budgeting which requires the reconstruction of the budget every year.

    It is a “tremendous amount of work to reconstitute the budget every year,” says Zywicki. Work on the spending package begins in November, with meetings through February by the budget committee. In March, the district receives information from the state on funding. The preliminary budget then goes to the Morris County Executive Superintendent for approval.

    On Monday April 26, a public hearing will be held to discuss the proposed budget. 

    Budget Details

    The proposed budget carries a Total Base of $104,568,998. That breaks down to a General Fund of $98,077,195; Special Revenue Fund: $2,066,403; Debt Service Fund: $4,515,400. The proposed 2021-2022 budget results in a General Fund tax levy of $71,382,059 (inclusive of an enrollment adjustment of $638,308) and a Debt Service tax levy of $3,993,145.

    According to Zywicki, the school tax levy increase would be 2.92 percent. He explains the increase is from 44 additional students that moved into Mt. Olive School District last year.

    “People are being drawn to Mt. Olive leading to an increase in costs,” he says.

    He also shares that 80 percent of the budget’s operating costs is related to personnel; zero increase in health benefits.

    State aid increased to $3.9 million but the district receives just 72 percent
    “of what we are supposed to be funded at,” he says.

    Pleased with the proposed package, Zywicki says “credit goes to this board who for all these years made decisions and was really good with their tax dollars and put forth this fantastic product despite the fact that we’ve not been funded fully with state aid in the past 20 years.”

    The proposed school budget carries a tax increase of $12.74 per month, or 2.3 percent, for the average homeowner, says Zywicki. The price for the average home in Mt. Olive has increased by $2,000, he adds.

    In 2020, the average assessed value for a home in Mt. Olive was $320,800; in 2021, the average home is now $322,000. This translates to a jump in the annual school tax rate of $7,234.04, for the averaged assessed home, in 2020 to $7,437.32 in 2021.  

    What Drives The Budget?

    “Big ticket items” in the budget has been a priority on safety in the past, says Zywicki. 

    This year, the MOSD is reloading on curriculum, new technology, new pedagogies, and new learning spaces, he explains.

    New curriculum materials and textbooks will cost $1.2 million; K-8 science program; K-5 social studies program; K-5 writing workshop; new bus lease of $248K; and new Chromebooks for K-5 totaling $71K.

    Some additional personnel positions are being created. A new $55K position for a Dean of Students to manage the extended school year of the Mt. Olive Success Academy will be added. Instead of depending on site managers and the stipends allocated to them, the Dean of Students will be in charge of administrating those programs before and after hours, explains Zywicki.

    Other new positions included a Mt. Olive Middle School guidance counselor of $65K; a new computer science teacher for $65K; three special education positions totaling $194K; K-12 Music and Performing Arts Department chair for $10K; and two building and grounds positions for $124K.    

    Concerns

    Some board members are opposed to the increased tax levy in the proposed school spending package. 

    “We are coming out of a pandemic and our community is still recovering,” says BOE Member Dr. Antoine Gayles. “Our residents, who knows what their financial situation is? With nearly four million dollars in additional state aid, why are we using bank cap for a third year in a row as opposed to budgeting within our needs?” 

    Zywicki responds by saying “I would suggest it is within our means because we are educating the students so otherwise we’d have to then cut other areas of the budget to have to make up for that amount. Those students are here and there are more students moving in.”   

    He explains that although there is an increase in state aid, that just covers the fixed cost of contracts that have been negotiated by the BOE, particularly the teachers’ contracts, so there is not extra money from the state aid. In addition, he says last year the school district did not receive a full allotment of the state aid and therefore postponed capital projects.

    “So last year we forwent a whole bunch of things because of the decrease in state aid; so that marginal adjustment aid is because we have more kids moving into the district and we are serving them,” says Zywicki.

    “And we need 11 new positions?” questions Gayles. “We need them? We have to have them or we will not survive? We need department chairs? We need a new one; we need all of this to justify an increase in levy to parents?”

    Zywicki responds, “That was the recommendation and was supported by committee. If you want to maintain; three years ago this district was ranked 90, 88 [in the state]. We are now ranked number 31 and we are providing tremendous services to the students. Could we survive without those positions? Yes, but then you lose things like Mt. Olive Success Academy; going to lose the Aspire Program. It’s going to be services that kids are now experiencing. We would lose those services, so surely we can go back and do that but parents are not going to be getting the same product that they are receiving now or better.”

    BOE Member Liz Ouimet says that if there is an increase in computer science and social studies courses then there is usually a decrease in something else.

    “What is there a decrease in since students are going for the computer science and social studies?” asks Ouimet. “Usually in the past we always did readjust,” she says, because of the worry about teachers affected as there would not be as many sections to cover.

    “I’m not comfortable especially with the increase,” says Ouimet. “There’s many people without jobs; there’s people at the food pantry and we’re increasing. I think a better lens should’ve been used to look at this.”

    Zywicki says “We can run an analysis to see where they are coming from. There’s more of a shift to computer sciences. The kids are enrolling in these programs. They are not taking as many study halls.”

    Ouimet questions the $10K stipends to music and performing arts. “Aren’t their stipends already there?”

    Zywicki responds that the $10K stipends cover the “robust level of our award winning music and performing arts programs,” and to take on extra administrative duties such as scheduling, running the totality of the program like going to Carnegie Hall, evaluations.     

    As far as the $71K in Chromebooks for students in grades K-5, Ouimet questions whether the teachers are getting the best equipment.

    Zywicki specifies how teachers in different departments get different technology to meet their needs. The desktops that were used in the art, photography and music departments at the high school have been replaced with Mac computers, he says, “to enhance the experience of the students.”

    BOE Member Christopher Zeier questions the staffing of two new Buildings and Grounds positions totaling $124K.

    “I also have a problem in the tax levy as well,” says Zeier. “How much are we spending in overtime now?”

    Zywicki explains that overtime costs in maintaining the high school dome, alone, has resulted in $40K to $60K a year.

    MOSD Business Administrator Gail Libby clarifies that one of the those positions is for an HVAC position to avoid hiring outside vendors to take care of HVAC issues in the district.  

    Despite the criticisms, BOE President Dr. Anthony Giordano is pleased with the proposed package.

    His one inquiry is whether the Mt. Olive Middle School principal and vice principal can get their salaries bumped to 12 months verses the 10 months they receive, in lieu of the stipends they get during the summer months.

    Ouimet asks what the additional duties would be of these two administrators during the two summer months.

    Besides that, the budget gets a thumbs up by Giordano.

    “It’s not easy,” he admits. “Great job” by the budget committee, central office administrators. Each year it’s tough. We are extremely mindful of tax dollars we are spending; why Mt. Olive creates such a great product.”

    As a 14-year BOE member, Giordano says “It used to be embarrassing,” in 2001-2006, with “nightmare stories,” rooms they used to teach in for special education classes, lack of materials. “At one point, K-5 schools had next to nothing curriculum; it was kind of all over the place.

    “Over the years, this board has made an effort to extend that tax dollar,” says Giordano. “Unfortunately, this system to fund education is archaic; it’s on the back of property tax owners. We are mindful of tax dollars but we also want to present the best product, the most efficient and thorough product that we can.”

    Hop On A Trail In Mt. Olive For Exercise & Nature

    By Cheryl Conway

    Anxious to get outdoors for some fresh air and exercise after a long cold, snowy winter?

    Mt. Olive is home to six trails, stretching about 12 miles in total throughout the area of Flanders and Budd Lake. Naturalist David Alexander, a volunteer member of the Mt. Olive Open Space Committee, presented a free virtual presentation on Wednesday, March 10, at 7 p.m., via Zoom.  

    Many residents probably know about the paved walkways at the area parks, but many are not familiar with all the different trails, usage and distinguished characteristics. The Mt. Olive Democrats hosted the event to educate the community about all of Mt. Olive’s wonderful trails and natural areas.  

    “Many residents use the trails for recreation, nature exploration, exercise, dog walking but many residents aren't aware of where they start and end,” says Alexander. “The trails are now written up with an interactive map and promoted on the township recreation website:” https://www.mountolivetwpnj.org/recreation-department/pages/trails

    “Because our trails are municipal and not state parks and they don't have charismatic summits they don't get written up in guidebooks or put on top ten lists,” says Alexander. “They are shorter trails and of great value within our community especially as more and more areas get built out.  Hiking has grown exponentially in popularity due to the restrictions COVID put on organized gatherings, more and more people are grateful for the local opportunities and fresh air.”

    Involved in the Mt. Olive Open Space Committee for six years, Alexanders says he moved to town because of the area and its offerings.

    Enthused by nature, Alexander has taken great interest in the trails that run through Mt. Olive.

    “I'm a naturalist and nature enthusiast and care about our town, both the people and the land,” says Alexander, who has lived here since 2014. “Having access to nature is important for recreation, exercise, mental health and education opportunities. Also, the open space is valuable for the ecosystem services it provides in terms of clean air and water and storm-water storage. The open space provides wildlife habitat for species biodiversity and also helps to maintain and even increase property values as people flock out of the city in search of more suburban and rural neighborhoods.”

    About 45 people attended his presentation about the trails on March 10.

    He says trail goers can access the interactive trails on their cell phone. They can click on the various icons to learn about the trails and even use GPS to navigate their way.

    “I'm a trail user myself so that makes it easier to monitor and be a steward of them,” says Alexander. “I've recorded GPS of the trails and made an interactive Google map so you can explore the trail routes at home or along the way on a smartphone.

    “I've worked with many scouts to organize clean-ups, trail work and projects to better these areas and make the access more inviting and accessible for a broader audience of trail users,” he adds.  “I'd say that I'm also just one team member and took the opportunity to promote lots of work done before I ever joined the committee. So many of these trails are in areas that someone else stood up for and made the effort to protect for the benefit of our residents.” 

    Hop On A Trail 

    In Mt. Olive there are “Six trails with the White Trail being the longest going from Rt. 46 behind Adam's Bagels to the High School and then around Maiers Pond behind Turkey Brook.”

    The trails extend approximately 12 miles, he says.

    The trails include: White Trail, Maires Pond, Orange Trail, Budd Lake Vista Trail, Silver Springs Trail and Morris Canal Greenway.

    Living near other towns with trails also provides longer stretches for exploration and exercise.

    “Some towns have great trails like Byram, Chester and Long Valley and the volunteer committees often communicate to create connectivity that improves the quality of trails for all,” says Alexander. “Hikers are enjoying the physical features of the natural landscape geographically and not necessarily based on any municipal property line.”

    As a naturalist, Alexander can identify different species and amphibians found on these trails.

    At Maires Pond, he says there are fish and beavers, as well as some invasive water with chestnut “that’s choking out the water way.”

    He talks about Budd Lake, a pond “only 12 feet deep” with algae blooms. Jersey fish such as northern pike, yellow perch and white perch is found in Budd Lake and it has attracted ice fishing.

    “I’ve eaten yellow perch out of Budd Lake and I’m doing ok,” says Alexander.

    On the Budd Lake Vista Trail, Alexander says visitors will find some old cars. He says there is a “car graveyard out there.” He suggests the entranceway would be a good project for the Boy Scouts to clean up.

    The entrance to the Silver Springs Trail begins by Matt’s Glass off Route 206 in Flanders. It was there that Alexander found a Box turtle.

    The Morris Canal Greenway, previously called the Braille Trail, is a flat trail.  Alexander talks about the Land Conservancy of N.J. and its community garden where residents can purchase their own plot.  What a “nice community of people who help each other out,” he says, about the community garden.  The South Branch Preserve North attracts beautiful birds and butterflies, at the garden. There are also native plants there which are fenced to keep the deer out, he adds.  He mentions the rail trails which are ideal for bike riding, walking and even skiing. He says the rail trails, “they were railroads pulled up. When railroad goes away we have this linear trail for recreation.”  

    As far as his favorite trail, Alexander says “I like the White Trail from Gold Mine Road toward Adam's Bagels because you'll see beaver dams, a flooded forest, heron rookery, a lot of bird life and vernal pools for amphibian breeding habitat.  If I had to recommend one trail it would be the road to Maires Pond. You can park in the big lot at the backside of Turkey Brook and follow the gravel road down the hill to the pond for a 0.8 mile one way visit.”

    In addition to trails, Alexander mentions some other sites to see in Mt. Olive such as Fire Tower Rd. in Budd Lake with a Fire Tower that makes for “a great lookout.”  

    Boating and fishing, hunting with more than 3,000 deer in the area. According to Alexander, there are 112 deer every square mile in Mt. Olive.

    “We are way populated with deer,” he says, leaving many to get hit by cars. There is a need to support deer management, he says. “It’s a lot of meat.” Alexander says a hunter can get 30 to 40 pounds of meat just from one deer. 

    Trail Stewards Sought

    During his presentation, Alexander talks about the new Trail Stewards Program. Individuals are being sought to volunteer their time to take care of the different trails in town, by keeping them clean and passable.

    Volunteers can contact Laura Szwak at Mtotrails@gmail.com.

    “Residents can adopt a trail or inquire about service projects along the trails,” says Alexander.  

    The Mt. Olive Open Space Committee also welcomes Scout Service Projects to improve the trails and areas in Mt. Olive, he adds.

    “A lot of trails are rocky and muddy,” he says.

    To view Alexander’s slide presentation, go to:  https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/10N3YfYfDtNszh4ZYtjNjygkokykTkjXfPYEG-dDfAa0/edit?usp=sharing

    For more on Alexander, go to  www.NatureIntoAction.com 

    Alexander is a full-time naturalist, conservation biologist, educator and author of “Hop Into Action, The Amphibian Curriculum for Grades K-4” and “Buzz Into Action, The Insect Curriculum for Grades K -4.”

    The Mt. Olive Democrats were quite pleased with Alexander’s presentation and expertise on the local trails.

    “This has been an excellent resource,” says Andy Meissner, chair of the Mt. Olive Democrats Executive Committee. “What amazing resources we have in town.”  

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      Local and County News

      Four V Four: Dems To Face Republicans For MO Council

      MC Adopts Budget With Critical Programs, COVID-19 Response

      Four V Four: Dems To Face Republicans For MO Council

      The Mt. Olive Democrats announced earlier this week its team of candidates running for the Mt. Olive Township Council this year.

      There are four seats up on the council for 2021. The seats held by Republican Councilmembers John Ferrante, Gregory Stewart, John Mania and Daniel Amianda expire at the end of this year. All four have filed with the Mt. Olive Twp. Clerk to rerun for another four-year term, according to Mt. Olive Twp. Clerk Michelle Masser.

      Candidates had to file by Monday, April 5.  

      “We are excited to announce our team of candidates for Mt. Olive Town Council, who have filed petitions with the Mt. Olive Town Clerk,” says Andy Meissner, chair or the Mt. Olive Democrats.

      Democratic candidates include: Dr. Antoine Gayles, Nicole Spaldo, Alicia Sharma and Jordan Bernstein.

      “We are thrilled to introduce this team of community-minded individuals who have stepped up to serve our town and dedicate themselves to making Mt. Olive, the town we love, even better,” he writes in a press release. 

      “We look forward to meeting all residents of Mt. Olive, and sharing ideas on how we can work together to build on the past and improve the quality of life and services for all,” the release states. “Our candidates come from different backgrounds and different parts of town and understand the everyday issues that residents in our town face. Our focus will be on getting things done in our communities, leading with a positive vision and an inclusive approach. Our team will represent all of us as the new Mt. Olive majority. 

      Stay tuned for more announcements and events in the upcoming weeks and months.”

      The primary for the local elections is June 8; and the general election is Nov. 2.

      Mt. Olive Special Edition

      MC Adopts Budget With Critical Programs, COVID-19 Response

      Four V Four: Dems To Face Republicans For MO Council

      A cookbook was created by Victoria Granberg for her Silver Award Girl Scout Troop 5056. In photo, Granberg presents Susan Morse, director of the Mt. Olive Pantry, with the cookbook earlier this month. 

      MC Adopts Budget With Critical Programs, COVID-19 Response

      MC Adopts Budget With Critical Programs, COVID-19 Response

      MC Adopts Budget With Critical Programs, COVID-19 Response

      The Morris County Board of County Commissioners recently adopted the county government’s 2021 Budget, which holds the line on county taxes while maintaining spending on critical infrastructure projects, the continuing COVID-19 response, human services and public safety.

      Reserves for unforeseen impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic also are included in the $320 million budget. It consists of a $35.8 million Capital Spending Plan and directs $38.6 million toward educational, cultural and economic initiatives emphasized by the commissioners to serve all 39 Morris County municipalities.

      “Morris County residents have come to depend on a certain level of services and programs, including infrastructure improvements that this budget will continue to deliver,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Deborah Smith, Chair of the Board’s Budget Committee. “While putting this spending plan together, we also remained cognizant that household finances have been pushed to the edge by this pandemic and the resulting economic fallout. We made certain not to increase the tax burden on Morris County families.”

      Commissioner John Krickus, another member of the Budget Committee, says “Morris County has remained fiscally responsible while continuing to be a leader in responding to the pandemic.  The mobilization and outreach last year by our Office of Emergency Management was declared a model for others by the state. Since then, financial rating agencies have recognized our public-private partnership on a vaccination center with Atlantic Health System and the state to be a cost-effective program that can provide an ‘economic boost to the region.” 

      In preparation for unforeseen economic developments posed as the pandemic continues into the year, the new budget also maintains a stable reserve balance, while continuing to support the most vulnerable populations in the county.

      “This is a fiscally responsible spending plan for 2021 that continues our commitment to help people in need and provide opportunities for struggling families and individuals to improve their lives,” says Commissioner Kathryn DeFillippo, a Budget Committee member human services liaison.

      More than $23 million is specifically directed toward community-based human services initiatives.”

      Budget Highlights

      Capital Projects

      A $35.8 million Capital Spending Plan is included in the 2021 Budget, to be offset by $11 million in grants. It dedicates $9.5 million toward 28 miles of road resurfacing in 19 towns and $4.9 million on bridge and culvert projects.

      Among the planned road improvement projects are:

      Bartley Road/Bartley Chester Road in Washington and Mt. Olive townships;

      Green Pond Road in Rockaway Township;

      Boonton Avenue in Montville Township;

      Lincoln Park Road/Oak Road in Pequannock Township.

      Morris County expedited the 9-1-1 Communications Center upgrades initially proposed for this year to take advantage of favorable interest rates in 2020. The $26 million project will double the operating capacity of the county’s emergency radio network and infrastructure, which is relied upon daily by all Morris County law enforcement, emergency management and municipal first responders.

      Community Investments

      The 2021 Budget dedicates $18.8 million to support the County College of Morris, the Morris County Vocational School District, the Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Morris County Office of the Superintendent of Schools. Other program investments include:

      $5.8M for the Morris County Library and Heritage Commission

      $13.4 million dedicated to the 20,100-acre Morris County Park Commission system.

      $591K for Economic Development and Tourism

      COVID-19 Pandemic Response

      The 2021 Budget anticipates a continuation of Morris County’s dedicated response to the virus outbreak, including:

      Operating and staffing the Morris County COVID-19 Regional Vaccination Center at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall, where more than 3,500 vaccinations are being delivered per day, seven days per week.

      Continuing the COVID-19 testing facility at the County College of Morris

      Expanding Emergency Management and Public Health resources to maintain Morris County’s response to an unpredictable virus outbreak.

      Support The Arc of Warren County With Radiothon

      Support The Arc of Warren County With Radiothon

      MC Adopts Budget With Critical Programs, COVID-19 Response

      The 67-day countdown has started for the second virtual Arc of Warren County Radiothon with WRNJ! Sixty-seven days signifies the 67th anniversary of the Agency and its goal of raising $67,000 for this initiative.

      Since the beginning of the pandemic a year ago, The Arc of Warren County continues to be committed to providing services to its consumers and residents who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. The children enrolled in the Early Intervention program are still receiving services which enable them to achieve their best developmental outcomes. The residents in the Community Living Arrangements programs are still receiving quality care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Essential services are provided to many of the people who live independently in the community. In addition, the Agency has intentions of holding five weeks of in-person day camp at Camp Warren and will follow all safety guidelines provided by the Agency’s governing bodies.

      The Arc of Warren County has consistently maintained a high quality of services and provided maintenance and upkeep of its facilities during these difficult times. It continues to need assistance to help maintain and resume the services that it has been providing. Help make this year’s Radiothon for The Arc of Warren County with WRNJ virtually fantastic once again.

      The countdown will continue until June 3, when WRNJ radio will devote the whole day to sharing stories about the impact of The Arc of Warren County’s work with individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, from families, consumers, community leaders and employees. This initiative is a 31-year tradition that was the inspiration of longtime Arc Foundation Executive Director, Kevin Guyette, who passed away in October 2018.

      The emphasis will be on peer-to-peer fundraising through the following website page: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/arcradiothon2021 The Arc of Warren County is seeking members of the Radiothon team to help with this initiative virtually. In addition, any donation of $500 or more is considered a sponsorship and the company’s logo will be featured on the leaderboard and announced as a sponsor during the Radiothon broadcast. A new element of this year’s initiative is to engage businesses that belong to the Hackettstown and Washington BID to display donation jars on behalf of Radiothon. 

      The administration of The Arc of Warren County is extremely pleased that the 2021 Radiothon will be co-chaired for the third year in a row by Jim Travis, of SASCO Otterstedt Insurance, and Norman Worth, of WRNJ Radio. Both Travis and Worth have advocated for the organization and individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities for over 30 years. Travis serves on the Board of Directors for The Arc of Warren County and both Travis and Worth are long-time members of the Hackettstown Rotary Club and serve on the Advisory Board for Atlantic Health’s Hackettstown Medical Center.

      “On behalf of The Arc of Warren County, I would like to express my gratitude that WRNJ has provided our Agency with the vehicle to be able to conduct this fundraiser for over 30 years,” says John Whitehead, CEO of The Arc of Warren County. “I also want to thank Jim Travis and Norman Worth for agreeing to be co-chairs for this event for the third consecutive year. Their support has been instrumental in the success of past Radiothons. Thank you to everyone who has supported us in previous years. If you can continue that support, we will be extremely grateful.”

      During this period leading up to Radiothon, members of the Radiothon team will be contacting their peers to encourage donating to the Organization through phone calls, letters and online giving. On June 3, the actual day of Radiothon, the Radiothon team will continue to call their friends and colleagues in the comfort of their own homes or offices to encourage them to donate. The Arc of Warren County is utilizing an online giving tool to allow supporters to donate, plus share the page with individuals in their network. Results from the efforts will be reported on-air throughout the day. 

      “The Arc of Warren County is a non-profit that is very near and dear to my heart, so I am looking forward to co-chairing this event with Norman Worth again this year,” says Travis. “This is why I volunteer my time on the Board of Directors and have stayed engaged for many years.  The services that they provide to the entire county are essential resources that make a difference to the individuals and the families that are supported. They continue to make a positive impact to the community and have persevered during the trying times over the past year.”

      Interested individuals can read about the 67-day countdown to Radiothon online and, again, individuals can utilize The Arc of Warren County’s giving tool by visiting https://secure.qgiv.com/event/arcradiothon2021

      Those who are interested in supporting Radiothon or becoming members of the Radiothon team are also encouraged to contact Annamaria Lalevee, Director of Public Relations and Fundraising, at The Arc of Warren County, at (908) 223-0884 or at ALalevee@arcwarren.org

      About The Arc and The Arc of Warren County

      The Arc is a national organization that serves individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their family members since 1950. The Arc of Warren County is one of 700 chapters of The Arc and serves more than 1,100 people annually for the past 67 years. Programs include residential group homes and supervised apartments, day services, community-based supports, advocacy services, recreation and summer camp, Special Olympics training, early intervention and a wide variety of additional social services.


      Donations Sought To Empower Women’s Shelter

      Support The Arc of Warren County With Radiothon

      Donations Sought To Empower Women’s Shelter

      Strengthen Our Sisters Domestic Violence Shelter in Northern New Jersey is seeking donations to keep the spark of hope, and electricity, ignited at her houses for women and children.

      Sandra Ramos, founder and director of SOS, is currently faced with demands from the organization’s energy provider that the shelter is 'not' a residence, and can no longer be considered eligible for relief from termination of service during the COVID pandemic.

      The shelter consists of 7 houses, 2 licensed daycares, a thrift store, and food pantry; and operates with a volunteer staff. She began a drive to raise funds called Spark Our Sisters. For more information go to https://www.strengthenoursisters.org/spark-our-sisters/.

      As one light turns on, another dims.

      Her bright light came recently when she was interviewed last week by Steve Adubato for his television program "One on One with Steve Adubato," which features compelling real-life stories, and features political leaders, CEO's, and television personalities. Ramos was featured as part of the "25 for 25" series celebrating The Russ Berrie Foundation's Making a Difference Awards 25th Anniversary, honoring N.J. heroes.

      In 2001, Ramos received the top award as founder of the nation’s first battered women’s shelter in 1970.

      Her years as director of SOS have been a challenge, and just as her course seemed to brighten, the threat of losing heat and energy will greatly affect the lives of hundreds of women and children, with no other place to go.   

       “The winter months can be brutal on the homeless,” as stated in a press release from SOS. “One of our former employees at Treasures Thrifts store is currently homeless and has been living in a garbage can. This is probably unthinkable for most people, but because he is a man, the shelter could not help him. Unfortunately, he suffered frostbite and the loss of his toes in the process. Please help the shelter to continue the work that they do, to help others.”

      A crowdfunding campaign has also been set up for Spark Our Sisters. Go to charity.gofund.com. Its goal is to raise $100K to keep the shelter operating.  

      Volunteer/donate at https://www.strengthenoursisters.org/spark-our-sister/.



      Library Open For Curbside Pickup

      Support The Arc of Warren County With Radiothon

      Donations Sought To Empower Women’s Shelter

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

      Requests can only be made via phone call or email.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



      College News

      CCM Announces Final Legacy Project Presentations

      CCM Announces Final Legacy Project Presentations

      CCM Announces Final Legacy Project Presentations

      The Legacy Project at County College of Morris welcomes disability rights activist Judith Heumann for a discussion on Thursday, April 29, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. 


      The Legacy Project at County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph is wrapping up its 2021 programming with several noteworthy online programs. Included are an evening of reflection on the Oscar-nominated documentary “Crip Camp,” a discussion with a highly respected disability rights activist, a lecture on America in the Post-Cold War world and a recounting of a woman’s search for justice.

      To register for an event, email legacy@ccm.edu, and a Zoom link will be provided. 

      The upcoming Legacy Project programs are:

      A Lecture by Dr. Stuart Gottlieb, Columbia University, Tuesday, April 20, 12:30 p.m.

      Gottlieb, faculty member at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs and member of the Saltzman Institute of War and Peace Studies, will lecture on "America in the Post-Cold War World: An Uncertain Experiment with Power.” Gottlieb is currently working on a forthcoming book titled “Experimental Power: The Rise and Role of America in World Affairs” (Yale University Press).

      A Q&A with acclaimed journalist and writer Journalist Sierra Crane Murdoch, Thursday, April 22, 7 p.m. She will discuss her 2020 book, "Yellow Bird: Oil, Murder, and a Woman's Search for Justice in Indian Country," named a "Notable" book by The New York Times.

      An Evening of Reflection on Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution, April 27, 7 p.m.

      A discussion on the Oscar-nominated documentary, “Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution,” which features disability rights activist Judith Heumann. “Crip Camp” has been nominated for Best Documentary of the year. ASL interpreters will be present and Zoom audio-captioning will be available.

      A Discussion with Disability Rights Activist Judith Heumann – Thursday, April 29, at 7 p.m.

      Cosponsored by New Jersey AHEAD, the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, and CCM's Office of Accessibility Services and Commemoration Committee, the discussion features Heumann, a lifelong advocate for disability rights. ASL interpreters will be present and Zoom audio-captioning will be available.

      Heumann contracted polio in 1949 in Brooklyn and began to use a wheelchair for her mobility. She was denied the right to attend school because she was considered a "fire hazard." Her parents played a strong role in fighting for her rights as a child, but Heumann soon determined that she, working in collaboration with other disabled people, had to play an advocacy role due to continuous discrimination. 

      She is now an internationally recognized leader in the disability rights community. She is the author of “Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist,” a memoir, co-written with Kristen Joiner. 

      “Judith Heumann is the personification of the Disability Rights Movement,” said Maria Schiano, MSW, director of the Office of Accessibility Services at CCM; AHEAD director-at-large; and president of New Jersey AHEAD. “This discussion means everything, especially for disabled students, faculty, staff and community members. Personally, it is a dream come true and an incredible honor to share the same space with one of the greatest disability advocates, ever.”

      Professor John Soltes, co-chair of the Legacy Project, says “It is an unbelievable honor to welcome disability rights activist Judith Heumann to the Legacy Project. She continues to change the world with her advocacy, and we are so thankful to have her part of this Legacy Project presentation."

      Some of the CCM Legacy Project programming is made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Council for the Humanities, a state partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these programs do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities or the New Jersey Council for the Humanities.

      In-Person Fine Art Exhibit Set At CCM

      CCM Announces Final Legacy Project Presentations

      CCM Announces Final Legacy Project Presentations

      Tides Remembered by Abbigail Brembs, of Roxbury 


      Looking for an opportunity to view creative works up close and personal? The Department of Art and Design at County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph hopes to bring some normalcy back to the community as it celebrates and honors the work of its students by hosting the Spring 2021 Student Portfolio and Presentation in the college’s Art and Design Gallery.

      The exhibit opened April 1 and runs through April 15 in the gallery located in the Learning Resource Center (LRC) on CCM’s campus. A reception, free and open to the public, is set to be held Thursday, April 15, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Everyone who comes to campus is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing, and the college is following state capacity guidelines.


      CCM Announces Final Legacy Project Presentations

      CCM To Offer A Virtual Global Adventure

      Flicker by Santiago Arcila, of Dover


      The Portfolio class represents the summation of all of a student’s work from two years of creative studies at the college. Students exhibiting this spring are majors in Fine Art and Animation.

      “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 visitors should enter through the main LRC entrance where they will be temperature checked. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
       

      CCM To Offer A Virtual Global Adventure

      CCM To Offer A Virtual Global Adventure

      CCM To Offer A Virtual Global Adventure

      Feeling a bit cooped up? Need to take your mind for a stroll? Then take part in the Around the World Scavenger Hunt with County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph.

      The challenge is to follow the clues, find amazing objects and answer tricky questions. Along the way:

      Enjoy a 360-degree view of the ancient streets of Pompeii, Italy.

      Spelunk through caves in France in search of prehistoric paintings.

      View a centuries-old pagoda in Kyoto, Japan.

      Visit a creepy “mermaid” in London.

      Take a “You-Are-There” walk-through of an artist’s haunting studio in Mexico.

      CCM will be hosting this 60-minute virtual global adventure, via Zoom, on Wednesday, April 28, at 7 p.m. The cost is $35 to tour the world. To register, visit www.ccm.edu/foundation/donate and note Scavenger Hunt in the Special Instructions field. Also join as a team. Each team member needs to pay the $35 fee. For more information, email bcapsouras@ccm.edu.

      Sign up today and explore the world’s best museums and historic locations – all via amazing websites.

      CCM To Offer A Virtual Global Adventure

      Using 2020 As A Transitional Year

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


      2020 was the year we saw things we couldn't imagine.

      A year which paralyzed us with fear.

      A year so confusing that we stayed stagnant.

      For many, the year showed us what we didn’t want.

      For many, the year showed us what was truly important and shifted our values and priorities.

      For many, the year was filled with trauma that can be still be felt in 2021 but on the other side of trauma is growth. With growth comes new opportunities and possibilities.

      For many, they can’t wait to get through the chaos brought to us in 2020 but the question becomes: Who do we want to be globally? As a country? As an individual?

      Maybe we should use 2020 and the current year as a transitional gap year to figure out who we want to be before we just move forward out of fear and impulsivity.

      The world has changed and change is normal. It’s the only constant in the world. With change comes a new norm. We can’t go back to the way things were but would we really want to?

      This is an opportunity to make the world a better place. We should use this gap year to release what isn’t working and form new habits, routines and schedules.

      We now have an opportunity to cause change in the world. If we keep wanting to go back to the way it was or just run to towards a future that we didn’t think through first, we will end up stuck in a vicious cycle of negativity and fear.

      It’s okay to stay in this transitional time for a little bit. Actually, I recommend it. Take some time, evaluate the past. 

      Plan/create for the future you want. Stop resisting what is going on at the current moment whether it’s good or bad. Resistance brings up more stress, takes away your vision and causes fear.

      Accept what is at this moment. Not as a sign of giving up but as a pause. Use the pause to gain perspective and vision to move forward.

      Use this time to redefine what it means to be human.

      Think about ways that can improve your life and those around you.

      Find ways to bring more empathy, kindness and love to the world.

      Slow down and connect with yourself.

      Spend time alone.

      Spend time doing nothing. Feel the boredom. See where the boredom takes you.

      Spend time in gratitude being thankful for all you have.

      Open up to all the gifts you have and share them with others.

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

      Events around town

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