MO ONLINE 4-24-2021

Mt. Olive Online Publication September 26, 2023

Teen Mixes Her Passions To Raise $$ For Cancer Research

By Cheryl Conway

Last month was reading to youth, this month is cooking- this dedicated 15-year-old is having too much “fun” raising funds to support children’s cancer research.

Jenna Alessandrini of Flanders, a freshman at Mt. Olive High School, is hosting a Virtual Baking Class this Sunday, April 25, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., via Google Meet. All proceeds will go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

With a goal of raising $5K, this young philanthropist is half-way there. In her line up of fundraising ideas, Alessandrini mixes her passions into creative ways to motivate others to join in at her table.

“It was my idea to do a virtual baking class,” says Alessandrini. “I started brainstorming ways to fundraise for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as a part of my membership of St. Jude Leadership Society back in January. I love baking so I wanted to be able to create a fundraiser incorporating that passion. My grandmother, who is a big fan of my snickerdoodles, suggested that I could teach people how to bake snickerdoodles. I decided to build on that idea and make snickerdoodles and magic cookie bars.”

Participants are invited to tune in this Sunday to bake with Alessandrini.

“I will be baking in my kitchen at home,” says Alessandrini. “The class will be live over Google Meet but anyone interested can also purchase a pre-recorded tutorial to watch at any time.

“This is a virtual baking class for beginners,” she explains. “We are making snickerdoodles and magic cookie bars in this class and I will walk the bakers through all the steps.”

For those who can’t attend, Alessandrini will make a pre-recorded tutorial that “anyone can purchase if the date doesn’t work for them or they’d rather do it independently with my directions. All proceeds will go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.”

All ages are invited to participate.

“I recommend this for anyone ages 6 or older, and both adults and children are welcome to join!” she says. “If there are any Scout troops that are interested in doing a virtual class to earn their baking batches, I’m also happy to schedule a baking class with them directly.”

Alessandrini credits her mom for helping her spread the word for her cooking class.

“My mom is helping me get the word out about this fundraiser and to publicize it,” she says. “I have done all of the organizing, created the flyers, registration, recipe and equipment lists, pre-recorded video and the planning myself. My uncle is helping me edit the video.”

She says, “four participants have signed up so far and I have seen a lot more interest in it as well. I’m hoping to have 10 participants, but the more the merrier. I’m hoping to raise at least $200, and so far I’ve raised $80.

For the magic cookie bars, participants will need:

½ cup butter
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 ⅓ cup flaked coconut (sweetened)
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

“You will need measuring cups, measuring spoons, an apron (optional), a stand mixer (or hand mixer if you don’t have a stand mixer), a rubber spatula, cling wrap, a small bowl, a spoon, cookie sheet(s), a wire cooling rack, a 13 x 9 inch pan, oven mitts, a large Ziploc bag, a rolling pin, and a spatula to participate,” she says.

Cost to participate is $15 per baker, either live or to buy the pre-recorded tutorial. This does not include ingredients; bakers will have to provide their own ingredients.

“All of the money from the class is being donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital,” she reiterates. “I expect it will make about 3 dozen snickerdoodles and 12-16 magic cookie bars (depending on how the baker cuts them). The bakers get to keep and eat all the cookies they make!”

Teen Mixes Her Passions

Last month Alessandrini turned her love for reading into fundraising for cancer research when she was virtually reading Harry Potter to young kids. This month she blends baking into the same idea.

"I like that baking allows you to be creative and make something out of nothing,” says Alessandrini. “I also enjoy that it is relaxing and can bring others joy.”

She also enjoys dedicating her time to raise money to help children fighting cancer.

"I am raising money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as a part of my membership in the New Jersey chapter of St. Jude Leadership Society,” says Alessandrini. “I am one of about 30 other high-schoolers in NJ that are in this chapter and we learn about leadership and raise money to support St. Jude. I hope to raise $5,000 for the children at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and I’m about halfway there now with $2,470 raised so far. I’m doing this fundraiser to make more money and to get me closer to my goal.

"I’m very excited to be doing this fundraiser,” she adds. “Baking is something I love and that I’m passionate about, and I’m excited to share this love with others. I’m also really happy to be able to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It is a cause that is so close to my heart. They have done so much to raise the childhood cancer survival rate over their 50 years of existence from 20% to 80%. They also provide hope to the St. Jude children and their families by making sure that they never receive any bills. I’m honored to be able to help their cause.”

How To Sign Up Or Donate

Anyone interested in this class, whether they’ve never baked before or are an expert, can sign up at this link: https://forms.gle/5ZtF9h5PTbtDsyjr7

If anyone would like to donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, they can do so by visiting my fundraiser page: http://events.stjude.org/Jenna-Alessandrini

Favorite Cookies

“I chose snickerdoodles and magic cookie bars because I love both of them and they’re fun yet relatively easy to make,” she explains. “We’re making two cookies because the snickerdoodle dough needs time to chill, so while that is in the fridge we’ll be making the magic cookie bars. They’re both a favorite of mine and so much fun to bake, so I’m excited to make them!”

Alessandrini is no stranger to be baking, especially when it comes to cookies.

"I have been baking frequently for over a year now,” the teen says. “I started baking at the beginning of quarantine and I do it quite often. I love baking and I do it as much as I can!”

She adds: “I have made these cookies before. I have made the snickerdoodles countless times and I’ve made the magic cookie bars quite a few times as well.”

To attend, “Participants just need any device, ideally a computer, to participate,” she says, as well as the ingredients and tools for cooking.

For the snickerdoodles, participants will need:

1 cup unsalted butter
1 ½ cup sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
2 ¾ cup flour
1 ½ tsp. cream of tartar
½ tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
¼ cup sugar
1 ½ Tbsp. cinnamon

Officials Steer Away From Cannabis Sales In Mt. Olive

By Cheryl Conway

A public hearing is set for the next Mt. Olive Township Council meeting on Tuesday, May 4, to discuss an ordinance that prohibits any class of cannabis business in Mt. Olive’s borders.

Ordinance #10-2021 was introduced for first reading on April 6, and the second reading was scheduled for the last meeting held April 20 but the council decided to table any action until the public hearing next month. If the ordinance is passed next month, businesses will be prohibited from obtaining any of the six licenses in town dealing with the cultivating, selling, manufacturing, distributing, and transporting of marijuana in Mt. Olive.

Since New Jersey voters approved Public Question No. 1 in 2020 which amended the N.J. Constitution to allow for the legalization of a controlled form of marijuana called “cannabis” for adults aged 21 and older, townships throughout the state have been wrestling with the same decision as to how they will regulate these licenses in their jurisdiction. Townships have until Aug. 21 to decide on their municipal regulation or prohibition of these licenses. If they fail to act, the law will permit the growing, cultivating, manufacturing, selling and reselling of cannabis and cannabis items in all industrial zones as well as commercial and retail zones for a period of five years.

The council decided to prohibit all such licenses until they receive more information from the state and explore their options in greater detail. Opting out now will still allow the township to opt back in at any given time, officials say. “There are a lot of unknowns about it,” says Council President Joe Nicastro. “There’s a lot of unknowns yet; I guess they’ll clear it up eventually. We should definitely consider opting out because we could always agree to opt in. I don’t think we’re opting out forever.”

Councilwoman Colleen Labow, agrees, “We don’t have to get in the thick of it,” suggesting she would rather wait and see what the other towns are doing first. “Then we can make decisions.”

Labow mentions the town of Boonton which grows cannabis.

“It’s a big concern,” she says, because of the issue of smell as it involves constantly harvesting flower that “have a horrible smell.” Since 2012, 17 states have legalized recreational marijuana for adults over the age of 21; 36 states have legalized medical marijuana. N.J. was one of four states in November to win the vote legalizing recreational cannabis.

N.J. Cannabis Legislation

Mt. Olive Twp. Attorney Fred Samrau presented details of the N.J. Cannabis Legislation to the township council at the March 23 meeting.

On Feb. 22, N.J. Gov. Phil Murphy signed the N.J. Cannabis Regulatory Enforcement Assistance and Marketplace Modernization Act which legalizes the recreational use of marijuana by adults 21 and older and establishes a comprehensive regulatory and licensing scheme for commercial recreational (adult use) cannabis operations, use and possession.

The act also establishes six marketplace classes of licensed businesses which include: Cannabis Cultivator licenses which allows facilities to grow and cultivate cannabis; Cannabis Manufacturer license for facilities involved in the manufacturing, preparation and packaging of cannabis items; Cannabis Wholesaler license for facilities involved in obtaining and selling cannabis items for later resale by other licenses; Cannabis Distributor license for businesses involved in transporting cannabis plants or items in bulk from one licensed cultivator to another licensed cultivator; Cannabis Retailer license for locations at which cannabis items and related supplies are sold to consumers; and Cannabis Delivery license for businesses providing courier services for consumer.“

All towns are wrestling with this,” says Samrau. He explains that towns have 180 days to enact ordinances or opt out until 2026. He says that if the town opts in, the retail stories are allowed to operate their business for five years under the new law. If it prohibits any of the first five classes, then it can change its minds. Samrau specifies that the last section on Cannabis Delivery or commerce can not be prohibited.

“You cannot prohibit businesses from coming in to deliver to a resident,” says Samrau. He says that the issue with Cannabis Cultivator licenses is the concern as to where these establishments will be permitted. There are concerns with odor, or location as placement next to a school would be unadvised.“

It’s important whatever you decide you have zoning in place,” says Samrau. Officials need to consider residential, set-backs, parks. As far as Cannabis Retail, officials need to consider whether it wants to allow businesses to open throughout the town or in one area of town.

Mt. Olive Twp. Attorney Johnathan Testa spoke about the tax benefit with Cannabis retail. While he is still awaiting specifics from the state, he says the local level would get 2 percent tax revenue. Because of the tax benefit, officials say they may want to consider allowing the sale of legalized cannabis at retail stores in town to get the tax benefit. The township also needs to address employment practices at the workplace as far as recreational cannabis use while at work

"You can be on the frontier with this,” says Samrau, “or wait to get the direction.” Council Vice President Alex Roman suggests opting out with an ordinance instead of waiting for the August deadline.

Since the March presentation, a cannabis cultivating company reached out to the council inquiring on whether it will be allowing businesses to come in to cultivate. “One did engage in the issue,” says Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko during the April 20 Mt. Olive Twp. Council meeting, adding that this individual did not have a specific site in mind to grow cannabis. This company has requested to present to the council.

Labow says she thinks it would be interesting to learn about what this business is looking for, what it needs and what it plans to cultivate.

Tatarenko agrees “it would be informative” to find out more about cultivating cannabis.

Roman suggests a small group of township officials meet with this individual to learn more. Tatarenko suggests the police chief, health department, zoning and some council members attend such a meeting.

Police Chief Discusses Cannabis Laws

On Thursday, April 22, at 7 p.m., Mt. Olive Police Chief Stephen Beecher led a public discussion via ZOOM about the legalization of marijuana, its rules and laws. Nicastro tells the 21 residents the council’s position.

“When it was put into law, we had the opportunity to be part of this with retail shops or we can opt out,” explains Nicastro. He says, the problem is “we are not clear on all the laws and what they mean.” Just because the township may opt out right now, “does not mean it will not be ruled out later.” He says the township is “waiting for all the rules and regulations first.”

According to Beecher, in N.J. 67 percent voted for legalizing marijuana for those aged 21 and over, and 33 percent voted against the law. According to the new legislation, cannabis or legal marijuana under 6 oz. for anyone over 21 is now legal in N.J., explains Beecher. In addition, anyone over 21 can possess 17 grams or less of hashish, which is a more potent form of marijuana, Beecher explains.

The new legislation “dictates to law enforcement how they do their job,” he says. Any person who has more than the legal amount can be summoned and then released, says Beecher.

Any person who distributes marijuana can be charged with a crime, he says. Anyone charged with a fourth-degree crime will not be taken into custody. Any person found to be distributing more than one ounce or less than five pounds can be charged with a third-degree crime.

Another change has been made regarding Statute 2C:33-15 which now specifies that it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to possess hashish, marijuana, cannabis and alcohol. First violation will receive a warning: Anyone under the age of 18 will receive a written notification to parents or guardian. Second violation will include community service. Anyone underage will not be taken into custody, says Beecher, but they can be charged with a fourth-degree crime.

Beecher also explains the difference between marijuana and regulated cannabis. He says marijuana is illegal as it is not regulated, can be bought off the street from the Black Market and it is unknown of its potency. Cannabis, on the other hand, is regulated marijuana that meets certain standards as far as being taxed and in specific form.

Another new law 2C:33-6 Depreciation of Civil Rights restricts what police officers can do during an investigative stop involving cannabis and hashish. Officers can no longer seize the cannabis nor alcohol, nor search because of smell or odor, says Beecher. He says they can only issue a written warning and provide notice to the parents or guardian. They “can only seize items that we see,” he specifies.

In addition, body worn cameras must be activated during the entire encounter, says Beecher.

Beecher thinks it is a “wise move” to opt out of licenses to sell and distribute. He suggests getting feedback from the community to determine what they want in town.

If the town were to consider allowing cultivating of cannabis, he says it needs to consider humidity, temperature and exhaust fans with filters to deal with the odor. After Beecher’s presentation, attendees could ask questions.

One person wanted to know how it is determined if someone purchases more than 6 oz. of cannabis by shopping at different retail places.

"We don’t have a system in place to track” those purchases,” says Beecher.

Someone asked if the use of cannabis leads to a higher rate of drug use, homelessness, fatal crashes and arrests.

"It’s not something we’ve tracked,” since it never had to, says Beecher, but in Colorado where cannabis has been legalized, those factors hold true, he says.

“It’s not something historically that we’ve really studied.”

Other questions pertained to cannabis smoking lounges, house parties, home cultivation, edibles, selling on the street, delivery service rules as far as identification of purchaser.

Beecher responds by saying the Cannabis Regulation Commission will most likely allow cannabis smoking lounges; home cultivation, edibles and identifying requirement for delivery service has not yet been discussed; selling on the street is not allowed and is a fourth-degree crime.

House parties where cannabis is present does not fall under this new legislation, he says, as the new laws are for public places and does not cover inside houses. Officers are not allowed to search premises and they can’t ask anyone under the age of 21 for consent.

He does ensure that “all of our officers are supposed to make sure people are OK.” They will call an ambulance if someone needs to go to the hospital from overdose.

A popular concern, by those on the call as by Beecher, is driving while impaired and the increase in traffic accidents. Beecher explains that if a police officer suspects driving while under the influence of drugs, he or she would need a drug recognition expert to determine that. He says officers do their best on observation and sobriety checks.

There is a device in California that tests for drugs, he says, but “we don’t have that in New Jersey.”

While a lot has changed with the legalization of regulated cannabis, Beecher ensures the community that his officers “will continue to discourage youth” from drinking alcohol and other substance use as it does affect brain development.

“Over 21, this is their decision to make with alcohol and tobacco,” says Beecher.

Other Township News

Roman shares some recreation updates advising that the Mt. Olive Twp. Pool opens June 19; Budd Lake will open as a park on May 1; Splash Pad will open on June 26; the new pavilion at Turkey Brook will begin taking reservations on May 29. Tatarenko adds that the pavilion will be rented out but will also be open to the public once the grass grows, concrete is placed as well as handicap parking.

During the public portion, Mt. Olive Twp. resident Irene Sergonis, who ran for Mt. Olive Twp. Council last year as a Democrat, criticizes the number of people gathered at Turkey Brook for a township event recently and half did not have their masks on.

According to Sergonis, four council members were in a huddle without masks on, at the Through the Ages 5K Run/Walk April 17 at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake.

“I was really disappointed,” says Sergonis, adding that she has lost “way too many people” to COVID. “They were in a huddle.," she says. "That was not right. We have to set an example that people in the community need to realize this is a serious problem. You were less than six feet apart. I believe in personal responsibility.”

She says the priest at her Greek Orthodox Church has COVID along with his family.

“It’s still affecting us,” she says about COVID 19.

Roman, who says he got COVID already, admits to gathering outdoors with others and without masks.

"We are allowed to engage in outdoor spaces without a mask,” says Roman. “I play basketball, I don’t wear a mask. We are outdoors in conversation. I believe most of the people have been vaccinated.”

Roman also corrects Sergonis by saying the new outdoor gathering restrictions for social distancing specifies three feet distance among others rather than six feet.

The council also shares that it chooses to remain remote for its council meetings as opposed to meeting in-person at the council chambers.

The Mt. Olive Twp. Board of Education has been meeting in-person while also live-streaming for those unable or unwilling to attend.

Nicastro says the council will most likely continue to meet remotely through the summer.

Roman also prefers meeting remotely as he has observed that more people have been viewing and participating in the council meetings, as well as providing their input, since it has turned to this platform via ZOOM since COVID 19 began.

"I don’t want to give that up,” says Roman.

"I love the ZOOM meetings,” adds Labow, agreeing that it allows for more people to join in.

Future Seminars

The council will be hosting other community seminars. One on Recycling is set for May 20 with Tim Quinn from Mt. Olive’s Department of Public Works; Parks and the Budd Lake Beach is set for June 17 with Tatarenko.

See What’s Cooking With Teen & Food Pantry

By Cheryl Conway

Thanks to the dedication and time spent by this teenager trying to earn her Girl Scout Silver Award, visitors to the Mt. Olive Food Pantry in Budd Lake can get their hands on some favorite healthy recipes.

After two years in the making, “Cookbook For The Mount Olive Food Pantry” has been created and printed by Victoria Granberg of Flanders, a ninth grader at Mt. Olive High School. The 14-year-old member of Girl Scout Troop 5056 compiled her favorite recipes into a cookbook that she then donated to the Mt. Olive Food Pantry last month.

As a contributor to the pantry with her family and troop over the years, Granberg thought her ideas for affordable healthy recipes would be appreciated among those who frequent the pantry.

“I have been helping out at the Mt. Olive Food Pantry and donating food/gift bags for many years and thought that those in need not only needed food but inexpensive, healthy recipes for their family,” says Granberg. “My mom and grandmother always cook healthy meals for us and I wanted to provide similar choices for those in need. I selected some of my favorite recipes from them. In addition, I like to bake and included some of my favorite recipes in the book.”

A Flanders resident for the past 10 years, after spending the first four years of her life in Munich, Germany, Granberg has been a member of the local Girl Scout troop for nine of those years here.

“There are 10 girls in my troop,” she says. “Girls Scouts is a great organization for young girls to learn and grow and have fun. Over the years, I have done many exciting things that I otherwise would not have thought about. For example, Girl Scouts hike, compete in Powder Puff Derbies, explore our environment through Journey books, participate in the river/community cleanups, obtained our baby sitting certificate, etc. And of course, we sell cookies!”

Being part of the Girl Scouts, Granberg is no stranger to meeting requirements for achieving awards and giving back to the community. Her cookbook project is just one in which she has dedicated her time.

“This project satisfied the requirements for the Girl Scout Silver Award,” explains Granberg. “The Silver Award required a minimum of 50 hours of service work for my community.

“I started it in 2018 and completed it in 2020,” she explains. “It took a lot of time to plan and obtain input from my sponsor, Ms. Susan Morse, at the Mt. Olive Food Pantry. In addition, I had to balance the work with my school and sports. Nevertheless, I was able to complete it by my personal deadline which was before the end of my freshman year in high school.”

“Cookbook For the Mount Olive Food Pantry”

“There are 36 pages in my cookbook,” the author explains. “There are breakfast recipes, main and side meal recipes, dessert recipes, and dog and cat treat recipes. There are 27 recipes in total,” with a mix of family favorites passed down from her ancestors.

“I leveraged old recipes that were favorites of my mom and grandmother,” says Granberg. “I also included some of my favorite baking recipes as well as dog and cat treats that can be easily cooked. Finally, I researched some healthy recipes to round out the cookbook.”

Granberg used a cookbook website for guidance, as well as support from her parents.

“I used the website CreateMyCookbook.com to create the cookbook and also print/bind it, she explains. “This app provided a user-friendly template to get me started. Once I finished the book, it also facilitated easy and professional printing through their service.”

Granberg says the cookbook cost her $400 in printing costs.

"My mom and dad helped by supporting and encouraging me to help people in need,” says Granberg. “My mom and dad did a quick proofing of the draft book and provided many good suggestions including presentation and formatting ideas. I had some formatting issues with the CreateMyCookbook.com and my mom supported me in contacting the application owner to discuss some customization that was required. I told them what I was trying to do and was really impressed when they agreed to grant my request at no charge.”

Donation to Mt. Olive Food Pantry

On Sunday, March 7, Granberg visited the Mt. Olive Food Pantry to present them with her printed cookbook.

"I donated to the Mt. Olive Food Pantry because it’s an important organization in my community and I wanted to help those in need get back on their feet,” explains Granberg. “I donated the cookbook including all rights to the pantry, which plans to make additional copies as needed.

“I gave the Mount Olive Food Pantry 10 copies of my cookbook so that the people who take the food can have healthy recipes to cook,” she says. "I hope they use the recipes to cook healthy and affordable meals.”

Granberg has given back to the food pantry in previous years as well.

"I made 25 birthday bags and 25 hygiene bags for the Mt. Olive Food Pantry as part of my silver award,” she explains. “I also received my bronze award and did a troop fundraiser to raise money for the Mt. Olive Food Pantry. My troop bought food for the pantry and donated it.”

Besides the Girl Scouts, this busy freshman is on the high school gymnastics team, a competitive gymnastics team and plays piano. She’s also a twin.

"I have a twin brother, Ricci Granberg, who is 14 years old and in 9th grade,” she says. Unlike a good many of her peers, Granberg already knows what profession she would like to explore when she is an adult.

"I want to be an orthopedic doctor,” she says. “I have had my share of sports injuries and I want to help others when I get older.”

As far as Scouts, that is one family affair.

"My mom is a Girl Scout leader and my dad is involved in the Knights of Columbus and is a Boy Scout leader,” she concludes.

Donate & Take A Book At New MO ‘Micro’ Library

By Cheryl Conway

There is a new library in town featuring books for children and the best part is it is always open and free, without any late fees.

The Little Free Library is located at the front yard at 11 Brewster Place in Flanders, home of Nicole Spaldo since 2012. Spaldo opened the library earlier this month.

As moderator and founder of the local chapter of the Buy Nothing Project back in January, Spaldo is applying the similar concept with her free library.

“I started this library because I have so many books and so many people were posting books to give away on the Buy Nothing Group; but then you have the books and you want to pass them on, so it's easier to have someplace to bring them to so that other people in the town can come and get them,” explains Spaldo.

Although she operates and runs the library, Spaldo does not take credit for the idea.

“Little Free Library is a nation-wide organization although we are not registered with them because it costs $40,” she says. “There are many other little free libraries around. There is at least one other Little Free Library in the Clover Hill Development but I'm not sure of the address.

Although she refers to the library as “The Little Free Library,” Spaldo admits “We don't have a name yet! Maybe over the summer when the kids are out from school and we get some more traffic we can have a contest to design on the name for our library.”

Library Details

The library is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year or 366 if it's a leap year,” says Spaldo.

“This library works on donations so people drop off books and then other people can come and take those books,” she says.

With some recycling and creativity, Spaldo’s library has been open since April 6 and accepts donations and pick-ups.

“This library is an old-recycled microwave,” describes Spaldo. “I got the microwave for free on Facebook Marketplace, painted it and put some letters on it to make sure that people would know what it was for. Then my husband built a stand for it so we could put it securely in our front yard.”

The library is geared toward children with a focus on board books, as well as children’s novels.

“Focused for kids of all ages; babies to adolescent,” recommended readers: “I would say from baby all the way to 8th grade,” says Spaldo.

“A reader can come to the library, pick up a book leave a book, etc. whenever they would like; no need to contact,” she explains.

As a mother of two, Spaldo knows the obstacles parents can have in getting to the public library.

“Sometimes it's not possible for parents to get their kids to the library; for example, the library often closes early or before parents can get their children there during the week,” she says. “It is sometimes difficult to get kids in the car after they've had a long day at school as well.”

Having young kids, Spaldo encourages reading in her household.

“Reading is important because it builds confidence and fosters exploration and creativity,” says Spaldo, who has a six-year-old daughter who attends first grade at Mountain View Elementary School, and an eight-month-old son.

"Even just looking at pictures can help children develop a sense of adventure and experience things outside of their own homes and schools,” she says. “Reading can be magical and can also help a family bond.

“My daughter is a voracious reader,” continues Spaldo. “She reads everyday. Sometimes she reads to the point that it interferes with her other daily activities such as getting dressed or finishing her dinner. We read every night together as a family and now she loves reading to her baby brother as well.”

No Fees, No Limit, No Membership

Spaldo stresses that there are “never” any late fees at her library, and patrons can take as many books as they want. They also do not have to live in town.

“This is the cool thing about this library: Once you take a book you could keep it forever, if you really love it, or you can bring it back,” says Spaldo. “There is no ownership of these books to the library itself.”

Non-Mt. Olive residents are also welcome.

“Since the library is completely free and we just run based on donations that are given to us, anybody can utilize this library,” says Spaldo. “Anybody walking by can utilize the library.”

Since the books are placed into the recycled microwave, there is a limited number of books that can fit inside, but enough to offer variety.

“There are about 20 books that fit in there,” says Spaldo. “I would say that people should take what they need. If they have books to leave that exceed what fits in the microwave, they can be left on my porch and I will swap out as we need to.”

Why Visit Little Library

COVID 19 placed some restrictions at the public library, but Spaldo is not so much concerned about other protocols or restrictions other than the recommended guidelines placed by the CDC.

“The library is completely outside, and because people will not spend a great deal of time at the library, since it is just on the sidewalk, I am not really concerned with COVID transmission; however, people should exercise general precautions such as using hand sanitizer before and after exploring our library,” she says.

Using the Little Free Library prevents readers from spending money on books that they do not have.

“Readers should use our library because it's free,” stresses Spaldo. “Maybe people who don't have the money to have books for their children can come and get a book for their child to read. It also gives kids an opportunity to exchange their books; kids go through books so quickly and books are expensive so it can be easier for a parent to send their child to the Little Free Library to trade out a new book instead of buying them a new one.”

Feel “Free to come take a book; don't even have to leave one because I've gotten so many donations, I could keep it stocked for ages!

“I hope everyone will benefit from this library!” concludes Spaldo, adding that she has no plans to close its door anytime soon.

She will stay open “For as long as my microwave lasts or as long as people continue to use it.”

Local Woman Takes On Extra Roles As Mom & Teacher

By Cheryl Conway

March and Women’s History Month have come and gone, but the accomplishments of women and their stories told should be a daily occurrence.

Mother, wife, teacher and president of PEAK are the main titles that make Dawn Maguire, 57, of Budd Lake quite extraordinaire.

Maguire has been the president of PEAK for the past seven years.

“PEAK stands for Parents of ExtrAordinary Kids,” explains Maguire, mother of three kids. Married to Glenn Maguire for 32 years, the couple has a 31-year-old son, Trevor, who graduated from Mt. Olive High School and Fairleigh Dickinson University; a 27-year-old son, Connor, also a graduate of MOHS as well as Purdue University; and a 19-year old daughter, Erin, who is a senior at MOHS.

“We are a group of parents of children with special needs,” Maguire explains about PEAK’s purpose.

“We are committed to giving children with special needs an opportunity to participate in a variety of activities at their own pace and speed in a non-competitive, accepting environment,” she explains. “We plan programs that are open to all children with special needs not only in Mt Olive but from any school district. Our programs range from sports, to music, art, and yoga programs to social gatherings for teens.

“We also have therapeutic horseback riding and also offer one-time events, like pumpkin picking and snow tubing,” says Maguire. “PEAK also has a summer camp that runs for two hours after the Extended School Year program ends each day. Our programs are advertised through the recreation department as well as on our Facebook page and website.”

Schooling & Background

Maguire grew up in Montville, but has lived in Mt. Olive for the past 28 years. Many know her as a teacher who has been working as an instructional aide in the Mt. Olive Schools for 10 years. Prior to having children, Maguire taught second grade in the East Orange Public Schools.

“After having my children, I taught nursery school for both a private school and for the Mt. Olive Recreation Department,” she says.

A graduate from Douglass College, Rutgers University, with degrees in home economics (specializing in Child and Family Services) and early childhood and elementary education, Maguire knew she had a passion for teaching.

“Teaching is very rewarding and I enjoy working with children,” says Maguire.

When PEAK began in 2008, Maguire jumped on board and became a member that same year.

“In addition to my role as president, I was running a Teen Night once a month for PEAK for the last several years until the pandemic,” she says. “We hope to be able to offer it again in the future. Before my involvement in PEAK, I spent many years as class mother for each of my three children. I also helped with a reading initiative at Sandshore School for two years when my daughter was in the school.

“My husband and I were also very involved in the Mt Olive High School Swim Team Booster Club for eight years and with the Flanders Valley summer swim team when our sons were on the team.”

Overcoming Challenges

No one said parenting was easy, tackle that with being a mom, being a woman, being a mom of a special needs child.

"I think the biggest challenge that I face as a mom, and especially as the mom of a child with special needs, is hoping that the many decisions that I make are the best for her,” says Maguire. “I think all moms also face the daily challenge of trying to have quality time with their kids while also getting done all of the many things they have to do each day.

Women in general face obstacles every day.

"Women have a lot of different roles that they are expected to fill and so it is a challenge to balance them all,” says Maguire.

While her profession has been in education, Maguire had to learn about special education. Although challenging, Maguire considers this a great accomplishment.

“My biggest accomplishment has been learning all about special education since my degrees are in education but not special education,” says Maguire. “Since the birth of my daughter 19 years ago, who has Down Syndrome, I have had firsthand experience with special needs and how learning differently does NOT mean not able to learn.

“After all of those years of seeing how children learn, I, then, was put to the test with the pandemic,” says Maguire. “For the past 13 months, I have been my daughter's personal aide while she is learning remotely. Her doctors did not want her back in person until after she received her COVID vaccines.”

With spring break come and gone, Maguire’s daughter has returned to school.

“I have enjoyed spending the days together with her online with her teachers and peers in school,” says Maguire. “It was challenging but she has done a great job and I feel like I spent the last 13 months doing the most important and rewarding job in the world.”

As normalcy slowly creeps in, Maguire was looking forward to returning to school as well.

“Right now, my plan is to go back to my job in the school district as soon as my daughter is settled back in to her school,” says Maguire. “I miss the staff and students that I have not seen in over a year. I also have been helping to coordinate more programs for PEAK and hope that as the warm weather comes and perhaps a loosening of covid restrictions, we can offer more activities.”

Women As Role Models

With Women’s History Month last month, and Mother’s Day next month, women and moms deserve recognition for all that fills their plate.

“I think it is important to recognize women's accomplishments because they do have so many roles and accomplish so many things,” says Maguire. “It is important for all people, but especially the young people, to see those things.”

Maguire tries to surround herself with like-minded women.

“There are many women that I know, from the moms of children with special needs who I meet through PEAK to the wonderful aides and teachers in this district who give their all to our children,” says Maguire. “My daughter would not be able to have the experience she has had through her school years without them.

More On PEAK

If anyone has a child with special needs and is not yet a part of PEAK, go to peakgroup.org or Parents of ExtrAordinary Kids (PEAK) on Facebook to see what the group has to offer.

Contact Maguire at dawn@peakgroup.org.

AVM Board Loses A Founding Member

Bill Wynne during the AVM’s War Dog Memorial Dedication, where he tells the epic story of his unwavering love for his country, and unwavering love for his beloved Smoky.

The All Veterans Memorial in Budd Lake lost one of its founding board members this week, mourning its loss with a statement and planning for a memorial in his honor.

“It is with an extreme heavy heart that we convey the passing of WWII veteran and American icon and All Veterans Memorial Board of Director William “Bill” Wynne,” shares Charlie Uhrmann, founder of the AVM. "Bill’s son Bob, informed us of his passing: “Dad has peacefully gone on to be with Jesus tonight at 8:10 p.m.; he was surrounded by his loving family. Thank you for your love and respect you have always shown.””

Wynne died Monday, April 19, at the age of 99. Born on March 29, 1922, his life can be best described as the beloved husband to the late Margaret Wynne for 57 years, a father of nine children, a decorated World War II veteran, dog trainer, photographer, award-winning photojournalist and an active community advocate.

Wynne served in the U.S. Air Force 26th Photo Recon Squadron and the 6th Photo Recon Group for 24 months during WWII. He served in the Southwest Pacific, Far East, New Guinea, Biak Island, Luzon, Okinawa and Korea. As an aerial photographer, Wynne flew 13 combat missions with the 3rd Emergency Rescue Squadron from Biak Island to Ceram, Halmahera, Celebes, Borneo, and Mindanao between September and December 1944. His honorable service earned him two U.S. Presidential Unit Citations and eight Battle Stars.

Wynne is widely known around the world as the handler and trainer to Smoky the Dog throughout his military career and beyond.

“Not only will we, his AVM family, remember his remarkable military and civilian accomplishments; we, will forever hold dear and cherish Bill’s unwavering support and sound advice as an AVM Board of Director,” says Uhrmann. “As such, we have made special arrangements with the Mt. Olive High School AFJROTC to lower the AVM flags to half-staff in his memory.”

The AVM conducted a memorial ceremony Thursday, April 22, at 7 a.m. with the lowering of the flags to half staff at the AVM and the playing of “Taps.”
Says Uhrmann: “May Bill’s contagious enthusiasm and boundless energy and goodness resonant in our hearts and minds.”

Uhrmann says the Mt. Olive Middle School Gifted & Talented students will be writing letters in memory of Wynne and his war dog, Smoky.

“We plan to have a large photo of Bill and Smoky,” says Uhrmann, at the annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony planned for the end of May. “People are invited to leave letters and flowers.”

Wynne attended the AVM’s Memorial Remembrance Day Ceremony on May 30, 2016, in which he gave the keynote address. The highlight from that year’s ceremony included the unveiling and dedication of the War Dog Memorial, where five war dog statues are featured as replicas, in their landscape and on their mission from when they served as war dog heroes. Smoky, a 4 lb. Yorkshire terrier from WWII, is one of the dogs on stage at the AVM.

To watch the AVM Flag Detail honoring Wynne, go to https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vlYhX-FTIKNmDZv6P8pgPAJ7sFeJCRGc/view?usp=drive_web&usp=embed_facebook

To view his full obituary, go to
https://www.mcgorray.com/obituaries/obituary-listings?obId=20854425

Local and County News

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Four Dems Gear Up For MO Council Race

Mt. Olive residents will have choices this fall as four Democrats: Dr. Antoine Gayles, Nicole Spaldo, Baramdai Sharma Alicia Sharma) and Jordan Bernstein have announced their candidacies for Mt. Olive Township Council. There are four council seats up for election this year in the town. The current council is currently made up of a Republican Mayor and seven Republican council members. Four Republican council members are running for reelection.

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Gayles, a 23-year resident of Mt. Olive, has served on the Mt. Olive Board of Education for seven years and has 23 years of education leadership. In addition, Gayles serves on the Morris County School Boards Legislative Committee and the NJIT Real World Challenges Program Parent Advisory Board; is an entrepreneur; and an adjunct professor at Centenary University in Hackettstown.

Gayles professional experience includes Hillside Public Schools superintendent, principal of Avon Avenue School in Newark and assistant principal at Piscataway High School, a culturally diverse high school that provided educational services to more than 2,200 students. While in Piscataway, Gayles also served as the Industrial Arts Department chair and president of the Piscataway Principal and Supervisors Association.

Prior to his career in education, Gayles worked as an Investor Services Specialist for NatWest Investor Services on Wall Street. Gayles graduated from Swarthmore College with a B.A. in Political Science, received his M.A. from Brandeis University, and earned his Doctorate in Education Administration and Supervision from Seton Hall University. Gayles has served the community as a volunteer coach and mentor, and prides himself on being a results-driven, people-oriented servant leader. A native of Washington, D.C., Gayles lives on Tall Oaks Lane in Budd Lake, is married and has five children, all of whom have attended Mt. Olive schools.

“As Mt. Olive celebrates its 150th anniversary, it is an honor to be a part of this new journey, with an opportunity to contribute to the next 150 years of Mt. Olive growth and prosperity,” says Gayles. “I look forward to collaborating with Mt. Olive residents on what comes next for our community.”

Nicole Spaldo

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Nicole Spaldo

Nicole Spaldo

Spaldo, a nine-year resident of Mt. Olive, is an occupational therapist in the Andover School District. Spaldo graduated summa cum laude from the University of Scranton with a B.S. in health sciences and 2009 with a M.S. in occupational therapy. Spaldo has worked in early intervention, homecare, subacute rehab, and the private and public-school systems and holds certifications in brain injury, dementia care and aging in place. Spaldo is a Girl Scout Daisy Troop leader and has led environmental initiatives in the town. She lives on Brewster Place in Flanders, is married and has two young children.

“Our community is growing more and more diverse; and I believe that town council has a moral responsibility to serve ALL of our residents,” says Spaldo. “Whether you have lived in Mt. Olive for generations or you just moved in, every person, young or old, deserves a town council that works for everybody, not just for those at the top. I am passionate about protecting our environment for all to enjoy and ensuring the safety, health and well-being of all of our residents. I am excited to be a part of this candidate team and would be honored to represent you as a member of the town council.”

Alicia Sharma

Jordan Bernstein

Nicole Spaldo

Baramdai Sharma (aka Alicia Sharma)

Sharma, a five-year resident of Mt. Olive, is employed as an accounting supervisor at a private K-12 school. Sharma has a bachelor’s degree in accounting (cum laude) from Liberty University and an MBA from Scranton University. She has extensive professional experience across many sectors in for-profit and not-for-profit organizations and specializes in accounting, financial planning and analysis, budgeting and forecasting, internal controls and team management.

Sharma’s background includes volunteering as a crisis counselor with Crisis Text Line, a global non-profit organization helping people who are going through a crisis such as suicide, mental health, bullying, or discrimination, and serves on the Mt. Olive 150th Planning Committee. Sharma is married and lives on Winding Hill Drive with her husband and two of her children.

“I am passionate about developing a new vision for what Mt. Olive can become; a Mt. Olive where diversity is celebrated and where every person is valued; a Mt. Olive with sustainable economic growth and an economy that works for everybody; a Mt. Olive that is governed by an accessible, accountable, and visible town council… a Mt. Olive we all can be proud to call home,” says Sharma.

Jordan Bernstein

Jordan Bernstein

Bernstein, a five-year resident of Mt. Olive, is employed as a department leader for SHI International. He has had several assignments in sales and technology in his successful career and is currently responsible for managing a team of IT Asset Management professionals that support some of the company’s biggest and most complex customers.

Bernstein has a B.A. degree from Rutgers University and multiple certifications in software and asset management. A native of Brooklyn, Bernstein lives on Deerfield Place in Flanders, is married, and has three young daughters.

“My desire to represent my community on town council is driven by two different but overlapping goals,” says Bernstein. “As a parent, I want to make sure the world that I leave my children is better than the one I inherited. As a citizen, I want to do everything in my power to make my slice of the world a more just and welcoming place. I believe that by serving my community on town council I’ll be able to accomplish both goals while working to ensure that Mt. Olive is a place we are always proud to call home.”

The Mt. Olive Democrats are enthusiastic for the upcoming race for Mt. Olive Twp. Council.

“We are thrilled to endorse 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, an even better place to live, work, raise a family and retire,” writes Andy Meissner, chair of the Mt. Olive Democrats, and Irene Sergonis, vice chair. “Each candidate brings their unique background, professional expertise, passion for Mt. Olive and understanding of the everyday issues residents face to the campaign. The positive reaction to the announcement has been outstanding and people are excited to have new voices with a real vision enter the race.”

The Gayles-Spaldo-Sharma-Bernstein team will have more announcements and events in the upcoming weeks. For information, visit www.VoteMountOlive.com.

Honored At Lunch

Jordan Bernstein

Mt. Olive Police Chief Stephen Beecher, left, is installed as the new president of the Morris County Chiefs Association; and William Lockwood, right, was honored for his continued support with the Morris County Law Enforcement by being named Honorary Chief of Police of Morris County. Both were recognized on Wednesday, April 14, at the Morris County Police Chiefs Luncheon held at the Park Savoy in Florham Park.

MO Recreation Seeks Camp Counselors

Arc of Warren County Named Recipient of Student Fundraiser

Mt. Olive Recreation is looking for enthusiastic, dedicated, positive, outgoing and fun staff for its summer camp Rec & Roll 2021 which is six weeks from June 28 through August 6. This camp is mostly outdoors.

Make a huge difference in just 29 days to change children’s lives!

Team Leader – must be at least 18 years old, has experience as a camp counselor and/ or captain or coach of a sport, or has experience teaching or leadership/team building. Will need CPR & First Aid Training.

Counselor – must be at least 16 years old and have experience (can be volunteer) working with children ages 6-12. Certification in lifeguard training, babysitting, a plus.

Counselor–in-Training – must be at least 14 years old and have experience working with children, and adaptable (non-paying position).

Send resume to jdaggon@mtolivetwp.org

Must apply by Saturday, May 15.

Arc of Warren County Named Recipient of Student Fundraiser

First place winner, Nikolas Polizos, received a gift basket from Czig Meister Brewing.

The Arc of Warren County was the recipient of a recent student fundraiser. Centenary University’s Sports Entertainment class raised $735 for the organization.

A group from Professor David Perricone’s class ran a Virtual Trivia Night for The Arc of Warren County recently as part of a course assignment.

“Our professor asked us to support a non-profit that resonated with us,” says Ellie Roberts, Centenary student and group leader for this project. “We were certain that we wanted to focus on an organization that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We did some research and were all extremely impressed with The Arc of Warren County’s website. As a result, we felt that this agency would be an ideal recipient of our fundraiser.”

The virtual event was held last month and consisted of engaging trivia games through the use of the online application Kahoot. Event attendees were encouraged to donate funds online to The Arc Foundation. Annamaria Lalevee, the organization’s director of Public Relations and Fundraising, participated in the event by sharing some background about the services that the Agency provides to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. At the end, the first and second place winners were announced based on their trivia knowledge. Centenary student and first place winner, Nikolas Polizos,

received a gift basket that was donated by Czig Meister Brewing in Hackettstown. Centenary student, Callie Pullis, was the second place winner.

“It was a pleasure working with Ellie Roberts throughout the process,” says Lalevee. “The organization was extremely thankful for this opportunity. It was well-run and the student team was extremely professional and creative. It was a fun event for all involved.”

Other students who participated in this project were Katie Holst, Eric Nugent and Wesley Peters.

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.

Arc of Warren County Awarded Foundation Grant

Arc of Warren County Named Recipient of Student Fundraiser

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

The Arc of Warren County was recently awarded a grant from the Greenwich Autism Alliance for $3,000. These funds will be utilized to purchase tee shirts for the organization’s Summer Camp and Recreation Program through Camp Warren, as well as other items that will elevate the camp experience for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These products include a new chest freezer, a portable training soccer goal set, a portable basketball hoop, a basketball, fishing lures, tackle and lines and portable dining chairs.

“I am pleased that the Greenwich Autism Alliance Foundation can support Camp Warren to continue to provide joy to individuals with special needs,” says Kelly Milazzo, Greenwich Autism Alliance Foundation president. “It is the second time we have awarded funding to The Arc of Warren County. This is an organization that provides much needed services to the community and it aligns with our mission. I am glad that these funds will be used for such a worthy cause.”

Camp Warren is managed by the Recreation Department at The Arc of Warren County. Camp Warren has provided a quality summer camping experience on a scenic 35-acre site in Knowlton Township since 1962. Adult residential camps are available for two weeks during the summer and four weeks of day camp are provided for both adults and children. Activities include swimming, arts and crafts, music, sports, games, fishing and group activities. The focus of the camp supports the development of social, behavioral and interpersonal skills and daily living and physical skills.

Many Camp Warren Counselors have backgrounds in Special Education or related fields in Human Services. All counselors receive training on how to care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities prior to the summer camp program.

“We are very grateful for the continued generosity of the Greenwich Autism Alliance Foundation,” says John Whitehead, CEO of The Arc of Warren County. “This grant provides the Agency with the opportunity to be able to purchase items that will help make the camp experience even more enjoyable.”

To learn more about Camp Warren or how to help support this program, visit arcwarren.org or call (908) 689-7525.

About the Greenwich Autism Alliance Foundation

The mission of the Greenwich Autism Alliance foundation is to promote local autism awareness & acceptance and grants to support teachers & families of children with autism. The Greenwich Autism Alliance grants 100% of net fundraising to schools, agencies, professionals and families who provide support & services for individuals with autism. For more information about Greenwich Alliance Foundation, visit

www.greenwichautismalliance.org

Greenwich Autism Alliance Foundation

Its mission is to provide support for families and children with autism 100% of the net proceeds from contributions are donated to autism support programs.

About The Arc of Warren County

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

Mt. Olive Environmental Commission plans to hold its annual well testing program on Saturday, May 1 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Mt. Olive Senior Center, 204 Flanders-Drakestown Rd, Budd Lake. Kits are available starting at $60, payable by cash, check or charge. Test samples are returned Monday, May 3, from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Basic Kit $60. Basic kit includes tests for coliform bacteria, E.coli, and nitrate. Test every year. Arsenic $35 Testing recommended every three to five years.

Lead $25. All homes built before 1987 should have drinking water tested for lead.

Volatile Organic Compounds $95. Sources include fuel tanks, gas stations, hazardous waste sites, dry cleaners and septic systems.

Radon $50. Radon in well water is a common issue. Test at least once.

Gross Alpha $80. Gross Alpha is a test for uranium and radium.

Other testing options are available.

Donations Sought To Empower Women’s Shelter

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

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

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

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 Presents Fine Dining Evening to Support Students

County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph brings The Flavor of Giving, an incredible evening of fine dining to support CCM students. Special guest speaker and Executive Chef Bill Hendra, of Harvest Restaurants, will set the table with culinary excellence, to benefit the college’s Titans Emergency Fund and Titans Table food pantry program.

This unique virtual event is set to take place Wednesday, May 26, and includes a fine dining package, consisting of starters, choice of entrée and dessert. Hendra will accompany dinner with a video presentation.

Hendra joined Harvest Restaurant Group at the company’s inception, spearheading the opening of its first premier location, Trap Rock Restaurant and Brewery in Berkley Heights. He has groomed dozens of culinarians into fierce and talented chefs. He is graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and passionate about sustainability, responsible agriculture and seasonality. Hendra brings that passion and unique and special flavor profile to each of the Harvest Restaurants.

For The Flavor of Giving, there are two dinner selections to choose from: Cabernet Braised Short Ribs and Soy Ginger Glazed Atlantic Salmon. All dishes are gluten free and a vegetarian option is available. Each meal package comes with a gift basket and an opportunity to win a golden ticket, redeemable for a $100 Harvest Restaurants gift card. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

To purchase a Flavor of Giving dining package, go to www.ccm.edu/foundation/flavor-of-giving/ and scroll down to “Experience Selection.”

CCM Offers Performances to Delight & Inspire

CCM Presents Fine Dining Evening to Support Students

The Department of Music, Performing Arts and Music Technologies at County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph is wrapping up its spring season with several programs designed to entertain, delight and inspire audiences, including the musical Sondheim on Sondheim.

Get an inside look at the personal life and artistic process of one of the most important figures in 20th-century musical theater, Stephen Sondheim. CCM’s musical Sondheim on Sondheim will provide an intimate portrait of the award-winning, songwriter in his own words and music.

Sondheim’s best-known works as composer and lyricist include A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Follies, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, and Into the Woods. He is also known for writing the lyrics for West Side Story and Gypsy. Sondheim has received an Academy Award, eight Tony Awards, eight Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize and The Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015.

Celebrate the legacy of Stephen Sondheim as he just turned 91 in March. Performances take place May 12 – 15, 7:30 p.m. in the Dragonetti Auditorium in the Student Community Center on the CCM campus. General Admission is $15 and for alumni, children under 12 and seniors 62 and over $10. Purchase Tickets at https://bookstore.ccm.edu/current-shows.

Other upcoming performances are:

Spotlight on Music: Graduate Recital, Thursday, May 6, 12:30 p.m.

Dragonetti Auditorium; cost: Free.

CCM graduates will perform, demonstrating the talent and skills they have mastered during their course of study.

Dance Theater Showcase, Friday and Saturday, May 7 and 8, 7:30 p.m.

Location: Outside the Music Technology Center; cost: Free.

Dance students will delight audiences in a series of performances.

Masks are required for everyone who comes to campus and social distancing guidelines are in place.

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

Make Summer Count With CCM Summer Sessions

CCM Presents Fine Dining Evening to Support Students

Make Summer Count With CCM Summer Sessions

Has the pandemic created confusion for summer plans? Whether you decide to stay home or be on the go, make the summer count by taking CCM summer courses. CCM is an easy and convenient way to earn credits from a nationally ranked college at an unbelievable price.

CCM offers five Summer Sessions, ranging in length – three, five, seven and 10 weeks long – to provide flexibility to stay on track – or even fast track – to higher education. Classes are offered in three formats: hybrid, remote and online, to best fit school into life.

Summer Sessions are open to CCM students and visiting students from other colleges and universities. Sessions offered this year are:

• Early 5 Week: May 24 – June 26

• 10 Week: June 2 – August 10

• Late 5 Week: June 28 – July 31

• 7 Week: June 30 – August 17

• 3 Week: August 2 – August 21

CCM’s fall registration is also now open and classes begin on September 8. Apply today at www.ccm.edu/admissions. At CCM, students can select from more than 100 degrees, certificate and professional development programs. In addition, the college holds more than 160 transfer agreements with four-year institutions across New Jersey and around the country to ease the process to earn a bachelor’s degree.

CCM has money to assist with expenses such as tuition, technology, housing, childcare and more. To apply, visit www.ccm.edu/admissions/financialaid/ccmcares-studentemergencygrant/.

For free tuition through The Community College Opportunity Grant, provided by the State of New Jersey, visit www.ccm.edu/ccog/.

Along with those funds, CCM each year awards approximately $26 million in financial aid and scholarships to its students allowing them to pursue a high-quality college education. Visit www.ccm.edu/admissions/financialaid/fa-scholarshipsonline-application/ to learn more.

To view available courses for both summer and fall, go to https://titansdirect.ccm.edu/Student/Courses/. New students first need to apply to the college before registering for classes. Applications can be submitted at www.ccm.edu/admissions/.

CCM Design Students Exhibit Works

Make Summer Count With CCM Summer Sessions

Reflection by Dina Abdelgaid of Randolph

Curious about what today’s design students are creating and how they are putting their learning into action? The Design Student Portfolio Exhibit at County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph features the work of more than 20 students and can be viewed both online and in-person.

The exhibit is on view in the CCM Art & Design Gallery from April 16 - April 29 and online at www.ccm.edu/2021-design-exhibition/. The exhibit will conclude with a reception, free and open to the public, on Thursday, April 29, from 6 p.m.- 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. The gallery is located in the Sherman H. Masten Learning Resource Center (LRC) on CCM’s campus.

CCM Design Students Exhibit Works

Strut by Dana Miller of Morris Plains

“The Design Portfolio course at CCM focuses on preparing students as professionals, as it also prepares them to transfer to four-institutions to earn a bachelor’s degree if that is their goal,” says Professor Kelly Whalen, who oversees the program. “Students are involved in critiquing, enhancing and selecting work that contributes to a strong portfolio and presentation. It’s always such a pleasure to see how their skills and talent evolve and the work they produce.”

CCM Design Students Exhibit Works

Zorki Play by Maxwell Hunter Samuels of Flanders

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.

The Design Program at CCM prepares students for careers in Interior Design, Industrial Design, Architecture, Fashion Design and Fashion Merchandising. To learn more, visit http://bit.ly/Design-CCM/.

CCM Arts Publication Features Wide Ranging Talent

Centenary Replaces Spring Break With Wellness Days

Cover of 2020-21 edition of The Promethean

Fun and interesting artwork and graphics, thought-provoking poetry and essays, mesmerizing photography and book cover designs, and so much more is found in the latest issue of “The Promethean,” the student-produced, award-winning literacy and arts publication at County College of Morris (CCM).

The 2020-21 edition of “The Promethean” can be viewed at https://indd.adobe.com/view/ed334c6b-7605-4cff-bfba-c37e253ce5c4/.

There is so much great material to take in and contemplate in this nationally recognized publication. Since 2005, “The Promethean” has received 40 national and international design awards, competing against the work of professional designers.

Most recently, the 2019-20 edition of “The Promethean” was recognized by Graphic Design USA in its 2020 competition with an American Graphic Design Award. That award marked the 15th time since 2005 that “The Promethean” has received a Graphic Design Award from Graphic Design USA in the publication category.

“I’m proud to say that the student team that put together the 2020-21 issue have produced another great edition,” said Professor Kathleen McNeil, who serves as the faculty advisor for “The Promethean.” “I so enjoy the process of working with them and then seeing and viewing our final product.”

Student designers for 2020-21 edition of “The Promethean” were Allan Iskra, of Montville; Anthony Velotti, of Roxbury; and Terrance Wilkins, Mine Hill.

For additional information on CCM’s Art and Design programs, visit http://bit.ly/CCMdesign/.

Centenary Replaces Spring Break With Wellness Days

Centenary University in Hackettstown traded its traditional spring break week with a series of Wellness Days to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, while reducing pandemic-related stress. The first event, held in late March, featured a wide range of workshops designed to promote relaxation, health enhancement, career advancement, and community service for students and employees. The next Wellness Day was Thursday, April 15.

“While spring break was canceled this year, we recognize that our students and employees have been under a lot of stress as a result of the ongoing pandemic,” said Kerry Mullins, vice president for student life and dean of students. “Centenary’s Wellness Days provide everyone with the time and space to maintain their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. They have the option of attending as many events as they’d like, or none at all. It’s a way of acknowledging the fact that everyone has different needs.”

A 2020 Active Minds study revealed that 80% of college students nationally say COVID-19 has impacted their mental health, with one in five reporting that their mental health has significantly worsened since the start of the pandemic. Specifically, college students have cited increases in depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal thoughts. The main stressors: Virtual learning, social isolation, and loss of income. Coping with the many individual and collective losses—of loved ones, academic and career opportunities, and connections—has taken a cumulative toll, as well.

Mikolaya Nynka, director of the Centenary University Counseling Center, said the planned Wellness Days provide the University community with an opportunity to pause and take a break: “At the Counseling Center, we see many students who expect themselves to perform at their pre-pandemic standards. The reality is that the world is greatly changed, and just as we have compassion for others, it is important to be compassionate toward ourselves and recognize the context in which we are trying to accomplish our goals. Centenary's Wellness Days give students and employees the time to be kind to themselves and do something positive for their wellness. People can participate in one of the programs or use the time to sleep, take a walk, or socialize—all great ways to take care of yourself.”

A variety of on-campus divisions contributed to the wide range of events offered during Centenary’s first Wellness Day. Counseling Services offered a Self-Care/MindSpa, while Campus Ministry presented Meditation, Career Development provided a Career Health seminar, FAFSA offered a Financial Aid workshop, and Academic Success held a session on Time Management and Stress Reduction. In addition, Sodexo—the University’s food service provider— offered sessions on Nutrition and Healthy Dorm Cooking. Physical activities included Fitness by the Athletics Department, Personal Training & Weight Room Tips by trainers from St. Luke’s University Health Network, Student Yoga and Office Yoga by Student Activities and Intramurals, and an Employee Check-in by Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield. In the evening, students had the option of taking part in a dance class or participating in virtual service projects.

“The breadth of programs—from mental and physical health to academic and financial wellness—gives us all information and tools to use as we move forward,” Nynka said.

CCM To Offer A Virtual Global Adventure

Centenary Replaces Spring Break With Wellness Days

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.

The Inner Bully

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

I have never been a bully growing up. I have been bullied and know how bad it can feel. How much stress and fear it can produce.

Yet I find myself being a bully. The difference is the only person I bully is myself. It’s a constant battle.

I bully myself with such lines as:

How can you eat that, you're so fat.

What is wrong with you? You keep making the same mistakes over and over again.

You know better, you do this for a living.

Everyone has a different inner critic and insecurities so it might sound different for you.

This constant bullying can go on for hours or days.

The bullying doesn’t help me to change or to problem solve, it just keeps me stuck in the negativity loop.

I have been doing this since I was a child.

I did it when I wasn’t doing well in school, I thought it must be because I wasn’t smart enough.

When friendships ended I assumed it was because I wasn’t good enough.

I constantly criticized, judged and bullied myself.

How long does this recording have to play in my head before I change. That was the ultimate form of bullying.

When did your inner critic start? What were the constant negative thoughts you kept hearing?

Ways to stop the self-bullying:

When we bully ourselves, we end up saying irrational things about ourselves.

Things that we would never say to a friend. Things that are not based on complete truth.

When we berate ourselves, we get stuck in the vicious cycle of beating ourselves up then feeling guilty for doing it and the cycle continues.

You can choose to change the download that’s on repeat in your head. It’s a conscious choice.

If you’re not sure how many times you beat yourself up, try the "snap to awareness technique."

Wear a rubber band on your wrist. Every time you say something negative about yourself, whether it’s in your head or out loud, snap the rubber band.

You will become aware of how many times your inner voice betrays you. The awareness can be a wake-up call to change the dialogue you have with yourself.

After you become aware, you need to challenge that voice.

Is what your inner voice saying based on truth? Fact?

Is it based on a little bit of truth that you turned into a full explosion of insults and judgments?

If you know the inner voice is just repeating the harsh words or judgments from others such as parents, past relationships, teachers, etc. Challenge it.

Is what they were saying to you really about them? Were they unhappy people who projected onto you?

Is the negative self-talk based on past situations that are no longer true?

Talk back to the negative inner voice by reframing

Example:

I can’t do_______! Change to - I haven’t done it yet.

I’m always making mistakes! Change to - how can I learn from this situation? What is the lesson? Use it as a teachable/learnable moment.

Stop trying to be perfect- there is no such thing as perfect and if you continue to aim for perfection, you will be setting yourself up for failure.

Instead of aiming for perfection, aim to be better than you were yesterday.

Acknowledge your self-worth: Write a list of all your accomplishments, add in all your skills/abilities/talents.

Spend some time writing this list. Put it somewhere you can easily see it and look at it daily to remind yourself of how far you have come and all the great things you have done.

If your negative inner voice is coming from past wounds and pain, do the healing work.

Don’t ignore the feelings. Instead, listen to them with compassion and empathy.

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

Teen Mixes Her Passions To Raise $$ For Cancer Research

Welcome readers to the 67th issue of Mt. Olive Online.

Officials Steer Away From Cannabis Sales In Mt. Olive

By Cheryl Conway

See What’s Cooking With Teen & Food Pantry

Advertise in Mt. Olive Online

Donate & Take A Book At New MO ‘Micro’ Library

Local Woman Takes On Extra Roles As Mom & Teacher

By Cheryl Conway

AVM Board Loses A Founding Member

Video

Local and County News

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Nicole Spaldo

Dr. Antoine Gayles

Nicole Spaldo

Alicia Sharma

Jordan Bernstein

Nicole Spaldo

Jordan Bernstein

Jordan Bernstein

Jordan Bernstein

Honored At Lunch

Jordan Bernstein

Jordan Bernstein

MO Recreation Seeks Camp Counselors

Arc of Warren County Named Recipient of Student Fundraiser

Arc of Warren County Named Recipient of Student Fundraiser

Arc of Warren County Named Recipient of Student Fundraiser

Arc of Warren County Named Recipient of Student Fundraiser

Arc of Warren County Named Recipient of Student Fundraiser

Arc of Warren County Awarded Foundation Grant

Arc of Warren County Named Recipient of Student Fundraiser

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

Donations Sought To Empower Women’s Shelter

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

Donations Sought To Empower Women’s Shelter

Library Open For Curbside Pickup

MO Environmental Commission Plans Annual Well Testing Program

Donations Sought To Empower Women’s Shelter

College News

CCM Presents Fine Dining Evening to Support Students

CCM Presents Fine Dining Evening to Support Students

CCM Presents Fine Dining Evening to Support Students

CCM Offers Performances to Delight & Inspire

CCM Presents Fine Dining Evening to Support Students

CCM Presents Fine Dining Evening to Support Students

Make Summer Count With CCM Summer Sessions

CCM Presents Fine Dining Evening to Support Students

Make Summer Count With CCM Summer Sessions

CCM Design Students Exhibit Works

CCM Design Students Exhibit Works

Make Summer Count With CCM Summer Sessions

CCM Design Students Exhibit Works

CCM Design Students Exhibit Works

CCM Arts Publication Features Wide Ranging Talent

Centenary Replaces Spring Break With Wellness Days

Centenary Replaces Spring Break With Wellness Days

Centenary Replaces Spring Break With Wellness Days

Centenary Replaces Spring Break With Wellness Days

Centenary Replaces Spring Break With Wellness Days

CCM To Offer A Virtual Global Adventure

Centenary Replaces Spring Break With Wellness Days

CCM To Offer A Virtual Global Adventure

The Inner Bully

Events around town

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