Mt. Olive Online Publication March 21, 2023

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Hundreds Gather To Pray, Honor, Memorialize Military

By Cheryl Conway


Close to 350 people gathered at the All Veterans Memorial Remembrance Ceremony on Monday, May 30, to honor military men and women who died while serving in the United States armed forces. 

The 45-minute ceremony was held at the All Veterans Memorial in Budd Lake at 11:15 a.m. Through prayer, song, raising of the flags, speeches, placement of memorial wreaths and flowers, moment of silence, paver dedication and playing of “Taps,” the community came together on this breezy, hot day to mourn and remember military personnel who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect American freedom.

 “I was very pleased to see so many people take the time and make the effort to pay their respects to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we could live free,” says Charlie Wood Uhrmann, founder of the AVM. 

Prior to the ceremony, at 10:30 a.m., a dedication of the final element at the AVM was held to unveil the new prayer garden- The Reflection Sanctum. While the entire AVM is a memorial to honor, remember, memorialize and educate – visitors now have a dedicated, sacred area at the site to pray and reflect.

Dedication of the new prayer garden was led by Rev. Karen Gazzillo, who gave the sermon: Sacrifice, Grief and Healing during the dedication of the Reflection Sanctum.

In a special blessing, Gazzillo says “We ask for a special blessing on this Reflection Sanctum as a spiritual retreat so we can honestly deal with our feelings and heartache on the loss of our loved ones. To honor our loved ones in a powerful way by bringing healing and comfort in their memory.

“We thank you for this establishment, for this Reflection Sanctum to heal our body in mind and in spirt,” says Gazzillo.

She says the sanctum is a sacred “place to meditate, to pray and to focus on sacrifice, grief and healing that we all need to cope with in our lives. Regardless of what wars our families served in, it is impossible to fully comprehend what a sacrifice it has been for all the young men and women who have served in a war. All ages, leaving their families behind and never knowing if they’d see their families again.”

She says it is also “equally unimaginable” to know “how many veterans were injured and died while fighting for our freedom;” and how many families’ lives are forever changed in order to “protect our freedom and our country.”

Gazzillo says that “when a loved one dies, there’s such a deep feeling of sadness and sorrow.”

Coping with grief over a loved one, “it takes such a long time to recover. Being patient, reaching out to loved ones and friends- we have to seek healing.”

Gazzillo went on to talk about the five phases of healing: Grief and denial; anger; bargaining; depression; and acceptance.

"We need to acknowledge and actively seek guidance,” says Gazzillo. “It’s important to ask for help; don’t shy away.  All of us need to do our part to reach out. Every single one of us is important. Everyone who has served, there’s never going to be enough words to say ‘thank you.’”

As part of the Reflection Sanctum dedication,  an honorable service paver installation was held to memorialize U.S. Army Cpl. Hayden Allen Harris of Guys, Tenn., who died on Dec. 21, 2020, at the age of 20.  Harris, an infantryman with the 1st Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment at Fort Drum, joined the army in March 2019. Harris’ family attended the dedication and placed flowers at his paver.  

AVM Remembrance Day Ceremony

The Memorial Day ceremony at the AVM Ceremonial Complex commenced after the prayer garden dedication. Rolling Thunder made its grand entrance on motorcycles and raised the flags half-staff; and the Mt. Olive High School AF JROTC gave the opening processional onto the complex with Mark Noyes playing bagpipe.

Retired Chief Master Sgt. Robert S. Bedell of the U.S. Air Force gave opening remarks with the history of Memorial Day, which officially began on May 30, 1868, and was known as Declaration Day, a time to set aside to recognize the “Civil War dead.” By 1890, after World War I, all northern states recognized the day and all who died in wars, and by late 1800, all communities started to recognize it, says Bedell.

In 1966, the federal government by former President Lyndon B. Johnson declared Waterloo, N.Y., as the official birthplace of Memorial Day as it was the first community to celebrate the day in May 5, 1866, to “recognize it and make it a tradition,” and an annual community event in which businesses close and residents visit and honor veterans’ graves.

"This tradition continues throughout our nation,” says Bedell. 

Gazzillo gave the invocation and Ret. Col. Jeanne Murphy was the keynote speaker.  Murphy is a retired army nurse with a 30-year military career with leadership positions for the U.S. Department of Defense, serving in the U.S., Europe, Latin America, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Kuwait. Married to Centenary University President Dr. Bruce Murphy, her work has involved soldiering, community fitness and health promotion programs for elite Olympians, Paralympians to special needs populations.               

While the event was held in the morning, 3 p.m. local time nationwide is the congressionally approved national Moment of Remembrance to “reflect on sacrifices made by so many to provide freedom for all,” says Murphy. Observed  by Major League Baseball, NASCAR and Amtrak, “whose trains blast their whistles in unison at precisely 3 p.m.,” she says.

"But despite the parades, picnics and celebrations, Memorial Day is a somber holiday to honor all veterans who are no longer with us.” She says special focus is “honoring those killed during military service or through enemy contact” who “joined the U.S. military to be part of something greater than themselves to serve the American people.”

According to Murphy, there have been 1.3 million people, of every race and ethnicity, who have died in the U.S. while serving in the U.S. military, whether as nurses, drivers, pilots and in the line of fire.  She adds that nearly 2 million American women have served in the U.S. military.

"We see many more women buried in honor of their service,” says Murphy.

"Currently our 2.8 million service men and women make up less than one half of 1 percent of Americans,” she says. But it is the whole family who serves, she says. There have been more than one million spouses, 2 million children and millions more relatives who have sacrificed those they love.

“They represent the best that America has to offer,” says Murphy. “Gold Star parents need to be honored.”

Murphy also reported on fewer combat losses overseas, and a steep increase in military deaths at home through accidents, suicides, homicides, traumatic brain injury and environmental exposure from burned pits and toxic chemicals that are causing higher rates in cancer and cardiovascular disease. She says more post-911 veterans are dying.

With these ongoing “preventable deaths,” Murphy says, “we need to do everything we can to help veterans smoothly transition from military life to civilian life. It’s our responsibility as citizens to remember” and “pledge to support” Gold Star  parents and family members who grieve.

"Consider it honoring the unrecognized,” she says. “Commit to support them.”

Murphy says, “Never forget our veterans who understand the cost of our freedom. Their service to America is the greatest gift of all. However you celebrate the day, do it with their service in mind.”

New Pavers/Wreaths Placed 

Following Murphy’s speech, 14 families were called up to install Honorable Service pavers in recognition of their loved one’s military service. Their service was from various wars including World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm/Desert Shield, Global War on Terror and peacetime. Two to note is Murphy’s husband, Lt. Col. Bruce Murphy, who served 23 years in the U.S. Army during Desert Shield / Desert Storm; and Eric John Daniels Wood who has served two years in the South Carolina National Guard Air Force during the Global War on Terror. Wood is a MOHS alumnus, founding member of the AVM and son of AVM Founder Charlie Wood Uhrmann.

Wreaths were then placed by sponsoring organizations at each element of the AVM; Boy Scout and Girl Scouts presented flowers; a one-minute moment of silence “to remember sacrifice” of all wars was held; Gazzillo recited a benediction; and Rolling Thunder raised each flag circling the complex and the program.

In addition to the Reflection Sanctum, another last -minute element was added to the complex: Replica of the World War II Memorial in Belgium.

"The World War II  Monument was added to enhance or bring attention to the Seward Mansion,” explains Uhrmann.  “Several years ago I supported the Mt. Olive Historical Society’s application to receive a grant to restore the building.  The Seward Mansion has two sister buildings: One at Normandy Beach and the other in Belgium.  I have seen both buildings and have always admired their vast similarities.  A letter of support was requested of me, by Mt. Olive Historical Society President Thea Dunkle several years ago, and as a result, their grant was approved.  I am hoping that one day, once the mansion is fully restored, the township would consider allowing us to display rare war relics and uniforms in one of the first-floor rooms.”

With these last two elements completed, the AVM displays 16 different elements and has been identified as “one of the most meaningful veterans memorials” as noted recently by a representative from the State Army, Uhrmann shares. 

Elements include: Main Ceremonial Complex, Charlie Johnson Memorial Gazebo, Path To Enduring Freedom, Liberty Wall (Bill of Rights), War Dog Memorial, Battleship New Jersey Bollards, NorthStar Seating Area, Liberty Walkway, Warrior Obelisk, Spiritual Cenotaph, POW/MIA/PTSD Remembrance Wall, Ascension Bell, POW/MIA Podium, War Horse Memorial, Reflection Sanctum, Replica of the WWII Memorial in Belgium.

The AVM started 17 years ago with the Global War on Terror, and “now it’s the end of the war,” since the U.S. pulled out of Afghanistan, Uhrmann says.

"The Reflection Sanctum is the final phase,” confirms Uhrmann.  “No other element will be added. The existing elements will simply need to be maintained.”  

Photo Gallery

    Welcome readers to the 83rd issue of Mt. Olive Online.

    AVM Completed With Prayer Garden- Contributors Awarded

    By Cheryl Conway


    After 17 years and countless hours of planning, creating, collecting donations and maintaining the site, the All Veterans Memorial complex at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake is complete. 

    The All Veterans Memorial is a non-profit organization founded in 2005 by Founder Charlie Wood Uhrmann, a former Hackettstown resident. Her mission has been to create a premier local memorial to honor all men and women who have served, are serving and will serve in the United States Armed Forces. 

    There are 16 elements in total that represent the different wars and those who fought in them- the military men, women and even animals- all represented with pavers, walkways, monuments and artifacts.

    The AVM started 17 years ago during the Global War on Terror, and is now completed, ironically, now that the war is over, says Uhrmann.

    "We started at the beginning of the war and we stopped when we pulled out of Afghanistan,” right in sync with the completion of the final phase, the prayer garden, explains Uhrmann.

    The two final elements were built last month and the founder admits it was by far the most difficult to complete in time for the AVM Remembrance Day Ceremony. Hundreds came out this year to commemorate the day but perhaps just a few know that back story of the time, toil and sweat it took to get it done in time.

    Uhrmann and her husband, Scott, funded the cost for the final element, the Reflection Sanctum, also known as the prayer garden. Home Depot, which had supported the AVM for the past 13 years under its former management, had committed to fund the project but failed to file the grant for supplies needed for the prayer garden, says Uhrmann.

    Uhrmann had been working on the site for three weeks up to the event; kicked off with a spring cleanup, weeding the area with about 50 volunteers; repairing the elements; digging, setting pavers, and paving a walkway to and around the Reflection Sanctum.

    “We have a driver driving to Wisconsin to pick up the engraved pavers,” says Uhrmann. “The trucking industry is overwhelmed,” she says from a “supply shortage” and surge in gas prices.   When the paver vendor informed Uhrmann at the 11th hour “they could not deliver,” Uhrmann was blessed by Jason Tucker who drove to Wisconsin “ to retrieve our pavers,” says Uhrmann. “For this first time in 17 years, our vendor was unable to make the Memorial Day deadline due to the supply and trucking shortage. Jason drove 2,000 miles round trip (32 hours) so that the families who planned to install their loves one’s paver could do so. 

    “This is the most difficult phase in all the years,” says Uhrmann. “Everything that could go wrong has. Laying the pavers is a specialty.”

    When a friend saw Uhrmann working so hard at the AVM, he did what he could to help.

    “Paul Stefinew saw me laying pavers myself and called his brother-in-law who dropped everything to help,” says Uhrmann. Frank Santarpia from Lawn and Order “came to the rescue. They set the pavers and benches. Then refused to send an invoice.

    "I have never worked so hard in my life,” says Uhrmann. “This is the first time in over ten years that Home Depot did not do spring cleanup. Thank God for the JROTC. They were able to help weed, edge, spread mulch and lay a couple of rows of pavers.”

    Uhrmann is also thankful for Mt. Olive Twp.’s help this year.

    “Mt. Olive Twp.’s help was immeasurable to us this year,” says Uhrmann. “As part of the prayer garden, we added a Belgium World War II Monument to feature the Seward Mansion. John Geiger and Eddie Lata were key to locating and transporting the right rocks to complete the memorial. We like to say they moved heaven and earth.”

    With all the obstacles she endured, Uhrmann accepts the role she signed up for.

    “I have accepted the leadership role,” says Uhrmann, “and promised the completion of the Reflection Sanctum.  Things are easy when everything goes as planned. However, it is when things go absolutely wrong that your character is tested. I worked 19 out of the 21 days at the AVM in an effort to complete the task. Though I admit there were moments I felt defeated, I refused to give in. Through it all I maintained my faith. My prayers for help were answered.

    “Small organizations like the AVM are devastated when one link is broken,” she says.


    Founder Follows Her Heart and Passion

    "Seventeen years ago, when the war had very much started, when kids started coming home and parents were heartbroken, I learned what One Nation under God is,” says Uhrmann. Living in South Carolina at that time, Uhrmann said she started to do some outreach to help families “to make them whole.”

    Says Uhrmann, “that’s military life, they leave back family. The sacrifices they do not only when overseas but veterans’ families. What a horrible feeling to not know what they are feeling when you are so out of touch with them. I can’t imagine to raise a child for 18 years and then they’re gone.   “The AVM serves not only the veterans and military men and women but the families,” says Uhrmann. “It’s a tragedy when they can’t adjust anymore.”

    She says for 17 years, the AVM has been trying to bridge the gap between the military and civilians. “Their families still wait for them,” says Uhrmann.

    AVM-A Grateful Organization

    While Uhrmann is the backbone to the AVM, she is most gracious for all of the volunteers and contributors who have helped her along the way.

    “We are a grateful organization, for our volunteers, for those who come out, for those who donate,” says Uhrmann. “This memorial is blessed by God.”

    The AVM has organized collections over the years, sending 1,200 shipments to military men and women in Iraq and Afghanistan. Some were individual requests, others contained 50-75 boxes of needed supplies. Other collections included  10,000 survival backpacks and blessing boxes to homeless veterans; dog food to homeless dogs.

    "All private donations, private hands,” says Uhrmann. “If I couldn’t lift it, they lifted it for me.

    "We have made a big difference just by having this complex,” says Uhrmann.

    Following the AVM Remembrance ceremony, Uhrmann acknowledged AVM supporters and presented each with awards for their support over the years. Each person was called up and received a one-of-a kind paver from the Path of Enduring Freedom made from sand granules collected at Normandy Beach on June 6, 2014, each with an AVM seal and adorned with a red poppy sculpted by Marcia Barnhart. They also received a certificate with their name for their unwavering selflessness, contribution and support towards the successful development and completion of the All Veterans Memorial Ceremonial Grounds at Turkey Brook Park.

    Those recognized include: Bill & Linda Sohl, AVM Founder / Major Donor;  Eric John Daniels Wood, AVM Founder / Major Donor; Karl Meier, Avm Founder / Major Donor;  Peter King, Founding Board Member;  Solomon Gonite, Founding Board Member;  William ‘Bill’ Wynne, Founding Board Member; Amery Vasso, Founding Board Member; Frank Hunkele, Founding Donor; Home Depot, Founding Donor; Daughters Of The American Revolution, Founding Donor; American Legion Post 91, Founding Donor; 102nd Cavalry Regiment Assoc., Founding Donor; Morris County American Legion, Founding Donor; Knights Of Columbus, Founding Donor; Rolling Thunder Chapter 2 N.Y., Founding Donor; Bonnie Blackwell, Founding Donor;  Joe Gigli, Founding Contributor; BSA Troop 249, Budd Lake, Founding Contributor;  Mark Noyes, Founding Contributor;  Eileen Schissler, Founding Contributor;  MHOS AFJROTC, Founding Contributor;  Cheryl Conway, Contributor; John Geiger, Ed Lata and John Mania.

    “Congratulations to the All Veterans Memorial Committee and Charlie Uhrmann for the event this weekend for Memorial Day,” says Mt. Olive Twp. Mayor Rob Greenbaum during the May 31 council meeting.  








     

    Good To Be Kind- CMS Students Go To Work

    By Cheryl Conway 


    Different than years’ past, its purpose stayed the same: To teach, build and spread kindness.

    The Chester M. Stephen’s Elementary School Kindness Tour was held Thursday, May 12. Six second grade classes with about 135 students, their teachers, guests and family members gathered at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake from 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for most of the festivities. More kindness followed at CMS from 12:45 p.m. until 3:35 p.m.   This year’s theme: Building Kindness as “Kindness is just love with its work boots on,” consisted of a Kindness Pledge, walk to Turkey Brook Park with songs at the All Veterans Memorial ceremonial grounds; building friendship activity on the playground; kindness challenge; can food collection for the food pantry; and building birdhouses.

    Second grade teacher and organizer of the annual CMS Kindness Tour Ann Scotland shared “How truly important this lesson is. Our world needs love to heal, grow, and develop into the beauty that it is meant to be. We all need to use our "tools" to construct durability and happiness with. This shared experience of devotion and wisdom opens the mind and heart together. The strength in that is tremendous. We can't offer our students anything better.”   Unlike previous years, students would board busses with parents in cars following behind with stops at a local nursing home, church, food pantry and post office to mail letters to military men and women. Last year, with COVID restrictions, the tour was held virtually; in this post- COVID era, the itinerary was adjusted so participants could meet safely but with precaution. 

    “The tour itself was different from any other year,” explains Scotland. “Covid changed things for us. With that said, kindness was needed more than ever. It was valuable for the children to see how healing each act of kindness can be. We couldn't go into a care facility or use buses this year.”   So instead, the tour, organized by the CMS second grade team, still went on using nearby amenities.

    “Having the beautiful park literally at our feet made it a perfect venue for our mission,” explains Scotland. “The parents had a more hands-on invitation with the "Treasure Trunk" portion of our trip. It was nice having teachers, parents and students share the moment together.”

    The support from the community did not waiver with donations and yard signs.

    "We still have the Corsey family and the Sunset Drive residents showering the street with quotes of kindness signs as we start our day,” says Scotland. “Yard after yard, sign after sign welcomes our students into the day with a celebratory feel. We are so grateful for their participation too. Every ounce of kindness had an impact on this unique day.”

    Day of Kindness

    Scotland describes the day: “Following our Kindness Pledge, 2nd grade students left the building and walked to the Veteran's Memorial part of the park. They had on their themed T-Shirt and a "Lo❤es" Tool belt. They learned that the toolbelt should include: Their hands to build with, heart to care with, eyes to see where kindness is needed, mouth for an encouraging voice, our mind for thinking... what do people need/how can I help them, and ears to listen for the need/to the need. We have these tools in our midst daily. It was a day to use them and celebrate them.”

    For transportation, “We walked to the park and walked back. There were no buses involved this year. Parents met us at the park. We had a beautiful turnout... many hearts and hands shared in our day.”

    Scotland says she chose the AVM as the location because, “The AVM was a perfect launching spot for the day. It is a place that honors members of the Armed Forces who served our country. They served with courage, wisdom and heart. No doubt they used the exact tools we were highlighting on this day. We are grateful for their kindness and care. It was a wonderful setting to sing, offering smiles and writing our letters of gratitude to these men/women. Saying thank you is the basic form of kindness.”

    The AVM part of the tour included “Spreading good cheer portion of our day,” Scotland describes.

    “Under the direction of Mr. Chris King (music teacher) we sang five songs that highlighted goodness, to others and to ourselves,” says Scotland. “In the audience we had parents and two special guests from Paragon Village.

    “The songs we sang were: “If I Had A Hammer” (Peter, Paul & Mary) went with our theme; “The Power of One” (Bombshell); “Don't Give Up On Me” ( Andy Grammer); “Count On Me” ( Bruno Mars);  and “Fight Song” (Rachel Platten). Rachel Platten happens to be the cousin of one of my students so she sent us a video wishing the class well as we sang her song!” she explains.

    “We gave our two guests from Paragon Village a bouquet of flowers, made by students, and blankets to offer a hug,” she continues. “The kids each brought home a flower for their parents too. After they sang, the children all sat around the Memorial and wrote letters of gratitude to our troops.  A monetary donation to the Veteran's Memorial area of the park will be given from our second-grade students.”

    To express its gratitude, Scotland confirms, “we donated $275 to Turkey Brook’s Memorial. They are buying planters for the space with the money.  We tried to donate something in celebration of each cause/person that was being highlighted for making a difference in our world. This specific area is a shared space in the Mt. Olive Community. It is our ‘Thank You’ for having us. We wanted to give back to the community and to the honorees of this space.

    Scotland says there were about 70 parents in the audience for the singing portion of the celebration. Some stayed and observed the rest of the morning.   


    Building Friendships 

    “We then walked over to the playground part of the park,” explains Scotland. “We blended classes pairing the students up with a peer that they didn't know very well. They were partnered up and given conversation slips. They would read a prompt and respond with an answer; each time they completed their thoughts, they would each put a bead on their band. In the end they created a friendship bracelet, each bead representing all of the connections they made with their new friend. They then spent time playing on the playground together. 

    Community Love

    “Our final stop at the park was over by Parking Lot C,” says Scotland. “Throughout the past few months second grade families were invited to share in an act of kindness as a family. The families that took this challenge on, came to our celebration with a decorated car. We called this section "Treasure Trunks."

    There were 20 parent volunteers, both moms and dads, for the "Treasure Trunk" portion of the day, she adds, with 20 cars participating.

    “The students went from car to car looking at the theme of kindness that was offered by the visual(s) shared in each trunk,” describes Scotland. “The parents stood near and answered questions with regard to the kind deed. They then gave each student visitor a Kindness Card with a kindness challenge on it. The boys and girls were told to complete the challenge from home when they get a chance. Once they are finished they are to pass the card on to keep the goodness going from one person to the next. They had an entire collection of Kindness Cards when they returned to school.”   Some Kindness Card challenges included: “Give someone a hug, give a compliment, offer a smile, recycle, set the dinner table, make a card for someone, exercise and be kind to yourself, use please and thank you, fold laundry, share your toys with someone in need, clean without being asked, make a homemade gift for someone, talk to someone new at school, make a positive sidewalk chalk message, tell a joke and enjoy the laughter, look for kindness and be inspired.” During the  "Community Stop," the students decorated lunch bags for The Midnight Run Crew, continues Scotland. “This crew takes lunch to the homeless in NYC. The decorated bags will be a kind hello to store the lunches in.” A $30 Walmart gift card was also given to the crew to buy supplies such as warm socks or clothing, she adds. Kindness continued.

    Students also collected canned goods for the Mt. Olive Food Pantry and a $30 gift card to purchase supplies.

    Scotland says “I didn't get an exact count,” of how many cans were collected. “Each second-grade student was asked to bring in one canned good as an offering. We have about 135 students. So we had at least that many cans. Some donated more. We loaded the back of a van with four or five big boxes full.”

    While the students are busy spreading kindness, the tour would not be a success without all of the contributors.

    "Parents donated canned goods and various items for the Treasure Trunk causes; NJEA donated money for the students to get T-Shirts; grant money paid for tool belts and some gift cards.”

    The second graders even saved some kindness for the birds.

    “We made birdhouses to be kind to the birds when we returned to school,” she adds. “Birdhouses went home with the children. They were to find a spot that they thought would be inviting for the birds. One last act of kindness for the day.”

    Looking back at the day, Scotland is pleased that the weather held out for the outdoor tour and that kindness continues to spread.

    "It was our hope that all the participants were touched by the kindness they were able to share this year,” says Scotland. “It is always our hope that it stays with the students and grows with time.  In addition, every outreach that we extended as a second-grade family hopefully reached someone with care and made that difference. It's our dream that the impact of the day doesn't stop with the day but was born on that day. We want it to continue on and on and on.”   

    Photo Gallery

      Council Blog From May Meetings- Projects Galore In Store

      By Cheryl Conway

      Expanded Senior Center with a new health and wellness center; municipal building renovation;  new pavilion;  Seward House renovations;  soccer bathrooms’ facelift; Budd Lake dock extension- These are just some of the upcoming improvement projects being discussed in Mt. Olive. 

      The Mt. Olive Twp. Council dives into talks, at its May council meetings, about multiple projects for growth, improvement and expansion. Council Vice President Alex Roman led the May 31 meeting and raised some concerns about police strategy and inflation. 

      Roman requests that the police department analyze what happened at the mass school shooting in Texas.

      “A lot of balls were dropped,” he says during the meeting. He would like the police chief “to analyze what happened over there, to know what our strategy would be if a horrific accident were to occur.” Roman says officials “need to look within and with outside eyes…to make sure we don’t have any gaps.”

      His request caused some debate.

      Councilwoman Colleen Labow says “it’s not a choreographed event; it happens. I do know our police department train; they are well prepared, but when an emergency happens you have to hope and pray, work through the system and save lives. Our officers are second to none.”

      Mt. Olive Twp. Mayor Rob Greenbaum agrees with Labow and says the Mt. Olive Board of Education does actively train with the police department.

      "You can only act and drill so much,” says Greenbaum. “We can only hope the police department do what they need to do.”

      Roman adds to his point that many residents in Mt. Olive “would feel a lot better to know that our police department has a plan of action and contingencies upon contingencies. Our police should take a lead role on this.”

      Roman also asked Mt. Olive Twp. Business Administrator Andrew Tatarenko if inflation will affect the township’s budget and projects planned.

      Tatarenko says that although “prices have increased,” and vendors are saying they have the right to change pricing, “we’ll be fine. It’s had an impact” but we “won’t be able to not purchase anything.”

      Greenbaum agrees saying “we’re well covered on what’s happened with price of fuel and oil. I don’t think it will have an impact on budget.”

      Council members also approved resolutions and learned more about the status of certain projects.

      Senior Center

      Expansion of the Senior Center is one project being considered.  Council members approved a resolution at its May 17 meeting authorizing the award of a contract for architectural design services for the expansion of the Mt. Olive Senior Center, at 204 Flanders-Drakestown Rd. in Budd Lake.

      In the resolution, it awards a contract to The Musial Group in Mountainside for design services to expand the building.

      According to the resolution, “the township is looking into expanding and doubling the size of the Mt. Olive Senior Center to create a new wing to house the Health and Wellness Center. The new space will include office space, break room, bathrooms, medical office and storage space.”

      According to Tatarenko, “the Architectural Services have been discussed several times.  Back in February the Council authorized the township to solicit proposals.   “About a year and a half ago when the American Rescue Plan was approved, I asked department heads to think of projects that would meet the criteria for funding,” he explains.  “One of the projects that was presented to support public health expenditures, as well as capital investments in public facilities to meet pandemic operational needs, a dedicated “Health and Wellness Center” was proposed to be constructed adjacent the Senior Center.”

      Tatarenko says “Based on preliminary design, we feel we can double the footprint of the building and add another 5,000 square feet.”

      He anticipates six to nine months “of design and bid preparation and then another 18 months of construction.  Assuming the project is approved once we have a better idea of construction cost, I would anticipate the building being complete in 2025.”

      The idea for the Senior Center expansion came about during budget deliberations. “The idea was discussed which the mayor and council were in favor of and it was agreed to move forward with step one which was to hire an architect to start the process,” explains Tatarenko.  “Back in 2019 a Community Health Assessment was conducted to better understand the health needs of our community.  The top concerns were Mental Health and Substance Abuse.  The creation of this Health & Wellness Center would enable our Health Department to provide the services needed and expand its resources.”

      With this expansion, Tatarenko confirms that “The Health Department which is now located in the Municipal Building, would move their operation to the new facility which is about double their current size. Having a Health and Wellness Center adjacent the Senior Center logistically makes sense since our Health Department oversees Senior Services.”

      The cost is to be determined, says Tatarenko, “but would estimate anywhere between $1M-$2M depending upon square footage of the building.”

      He says funds were approved in the capital budget to hire an architect.

      “No other capital funds have been budgeted for construction at this point,” says Tatarenko.  “A grant over $1.5M was applied for through a Federal Community Project Funding program which Congressman Malinowski submitted to the Appropriations Committee for funding.”

      At the May 31 council meeting, Tatarenko updates the council with news that Malinowski did put forth the project as one of his 15 state projects for grant money approval.

      “I’m optimistic the grant will be approved,” says Tatarenko. “I’m hoping this is a positive outcome for some funding down the road.”

      The expansion “will have no impact on the current Senior Center, other than re-locating their bocce courts,” says Tatarenko.

      “This proposed facility will provide multi-jurisdictional impact to Mt. Olive and our shared service communities and give the Health Department the ability to expand its services, most notably, in mental health and substance abuse,” says Tatarenko.  “The additional space will allow us to be better positioned to continue our shared service agreements reducing the overall tax burden of our community.  With the increase in mental health issues and substance abuse cases exacerbated by the COVID19 pandemic, the need for these services has grown.  Our community is concerned with the difficulties our residents are faced with and this project will help start to address those needs.”

      The Senior Center expansion is just one of the three proposals being considered by the township. The other two include renovation of the municipal building and converting 5 Pondview Lane into a recreational facility.

      “We were looking for proposals for the three projects,” says Tatarenko, “however, we are only ready to move forward with one of them at this time.”

      The Police Department presented the idea as it ultimately ties into the Municipal Building Renovations project as well, he adds.

      If the Senior Center project gets completed, then the health department will relocate into the new Health and Wellness Center leaving vacated space for the Police Department to expand, as explained in the resolution.

      “This project lays the groundwork for a secondary renovation project to allow the Police Department to expand into the vacated space,” confirms Tatarenko. "Pond View is still in legal review – nothing to report,” he says.

      Renovation of Municipal Building

      "Nothing is being renovated at this time,” says Tatarenko, but ideas of how this vacated space could be used are being discussed. 

      “Assuming the Health & Wellness Center gets built, the Health Department will vacate the Municipal Building leaving room for the Police Department to occupy the space,” says Tatarenko. “The police departments needs have grown since the building was constructed and additional space is needed to better serve the community.”

      The Police Department presented the idea, he says.   The project would include “updated locker rooms and bathrooms, new office space and storage room,” says Tatarenko. 

      He has no idea what the cost of these renovations would be.   While “no funds have been approved or budgeted” for this project, Tatarenko says “it would be a capital budget request.”

      The Mt. Olive Police Department has 50 sworn officers, eight full-time dispatchers, three administrative staff members, part-time crossing guards and dispatchers.   “The town has progressed and grown throughout the years and we need to position ourselves for the short/long term growth of our community,” explains Tatarenko.

      The renovations would also include a fitness room to be used by the police department, he adds.   While there are other departments in the municipal building who could have utilized this projected space, Tatarenko says “shifting around other departments was considered but other departments all have adequate space to meet their needs.”

      Other Projects

      The basketball court at Turkey Brook Park is slated for some improvement toward the end of the summer, Tatarenko shares at the May 31 council meeting. 

      "I will get an update to see if I can expedite it,” he says.

      The council passed a resolution authorizing the adoption of bids for the partial exterior restoration of the historic Seward House at Turkey Brook Park. The township is seeking historic restoration general contractors to submit applications.

      This next phase involves restoration of the porch, says Tatarenko. The roof, cupola and chimney are currently being restored.   An additional phase next year will include more exterior work; and then interior renovations will begin several years from now with a grant application for funds.

      The council also approved a resolution for a Budd Lake Dock extension and fishing pier. Grant application has been made to the Morris County Open Space and Farmland Trust to purchase land just right of the boat launch.

      Construction of a new giant pavilion at Turkey Brook Park has begun, Tatarenko shares. Ground has been broken for installation of a concrete pad with completion plans for July.

      Lastly, the bathrooms located in between the soccer fields at Turkey Brook Park will be getting a facelift with new paint and a new roof.

      "That will look nice once all completed,” Tatarenko concludes.        

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      Local & County News

      Tinc Students Get Busy in Business

      Tinc Students Get Busy in Business

      Tinc Students Get Busy in Business

      Ribbon Cutting"

      Tinc Rd. School Teacher Mrs. Michelle Schoch , Mayor Rob Greenbaum, Student Riley Fazioli, Principal Mark Grilo, Student Jordyn Burke, and Teacher  Mr. Vince Buzzelli 


      Students at Tinc Rd. Elementary School in Flanders learned a bit about business last month at its TREP$ Marketplace event.    The TREP$ program is an educational, project-based program to teach students about entrepreneurship. 

      It provides students opportunities to practice valuable business skills throughout their workshops and end of program flea-market style Marketplace event.  

      Tinc Students Get Busy in Business

      Tinc Students Get Busy in Business

      Mayor Rob Greenbaum and Riley Fazioli  

       

      Workshops center around the key foundations of running a business such as product development, determining expenses, the 4Ps of marketing - product, place, price, promotion, creating advertisements, as well as selling their products at the TREP$ Marketplace event.  Students prepare their products and displays to sell to customers from their school, families, and community where they spend real money for real products.   









      Mt. Olive Shows Its Pride

      Tinc Students Get Busy in Business

      $15,000 Small Business Grant On Tap for Jersey Girl Brewing Co.

      On Wednesday, June 8, Mt. Olive Twp. raised the PRIDE FLAG at Turkey Brook Park.  Several members of the community attended.  In addition, it was streamed live on Mayor Rob Greenbaum’s Facebook page.  Rainbow lights are displayed on the Town Hall Building at night.  The Proclamation for Pride Month is set to be read on Tuesday, June 14, during the Mt. Olive Twp. Council Meeting. 


      $15,000 Small Business Grant On Tap for Jersey Girl Brewing Co.

      $15,000 Small Business Grant On Tap for Jersey Girl Brewing Co.

      $15,000 Small Business Grant On Tap for Jersey Girl Brewing Co.

      Jersey Girl Brewing Co. was served up a $15,000 Morris County Small Business Grant last month by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, as they continued to invite other small businesses and nonprofits to apply for the program.

      Commissioner Deputy Director John Krickus and Commissioner Stephen Shaw where joined by Mt. Olive Township Administrator Andrew Tatarenko in visiting Jersey Girl Brewing in Budd Lake and President Charles “Chuck” Aaron. 

      “Because of this grant, we literally have a piece of equipment coming on Friday to filter the beers,” said Aaron. “The thing we don’t do, we’re not doing any filtering right now. You talk about shelf-stability and for the product to live as long as it needs to, that’s filtering. We are now going to put out better beers.”

      He described the grant as one of the “angels” since 2020 that have helped his company survive the pandemic and move forward. The dark days of 2020, when New Jersey was locked down, required some fast thinking and quick action by Jersey Girl Brewing Co.

      “We sold a lot of beer to go,” said Aaron. “To solution immediately was, we needed to start selling on line and we needed people to come in so we could deliver it to their car. We went to having no online store to 24 hours later, having an online store.”

      The company had purchased a canning system just before the lock-down, and Aaron said he and a partner worked to assemble it themselves, with some outside assistance and a few Zoom meetings with experts.  Still, Jersey Girls had continuing expenses to meet, which included rising costs of ingredients.

      “We deliver these grants in person when we can to learn about the challenges faced by small business and, also, to spread the word that we still have funds available and that businesses need to apply,” said Krickus.

      Aaron said the application process was detailed.

      “The reason some of the process is detailed is because these are federal funds, and the county must be careful to make certain they are used appropriately,” said Shaw. “The program, to date, has been successful. It is worth the time needed to fill out the online application.”

      More than 600 applications have been filed since Morris County Small Business Program was launched on Valentine’s Day with the slogan, “Morris County Loves Small Business.”

      The Morris County Board of County Commissioners created the grant program from pandemic relief funding issued through the American Rescue Plan Act.

      The Commissioners dedicated $10 million to the effort, and Morris County is still accepting applications.

       Most of applications heading for final approval will provide each of the qualified businesses and nonprofits the maximum grant amount of $15,000. 

      There is no cost to apply. 

      The Small Business Grant Program eligibility requirements include, but are not limited to: Business has 25 or fewer full-time employees (or equivalent); In operation since Jan. 1, 2019; Located within Morris County; Less than $5 million in sales/revenue; Proof of a decline in sales/increased expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

      Go to morriscountysmallbusinessgrant.com 

      Fairies & Pirates Invade Turkey Brook Park For Festival

      $15,000 Small Business Grant On Tap for Jersey Girl Brewing Co.

      Fairies & Pirates Invade Turkey Brook Park For Festival

      Mt. Olive Recreation hosted the Mt Olive Fairy and Pirate Festival on Saturday, May 14, at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake. Saturday, May 14.   More than 3,000 people attended to enjoy the festivities.      

      $15,000 Small Business Grant On Tap for Jersey Girl Brewing Co.

      Fairies & Pirates Invade Turkey Brook Park For Festival

      Mt. Olive Mayor Rob Greenbaum commend the township’s recreation department for their planning such a successful event.

      “How lucky we are to benefit the residents of Mt. Olive,” says Greenbaum at the Mt. Olive Twp. Council meeting on Tuesday, May 17.  

      Mt. Olive High School Seniors Celebrate At Prom

      Mt. Olive High School Seniors Celebrate At Prom

      Mt. Olive High School Seniors Celebrate At Prom

      Mt. Olive High School seniors kicked off their end of year celebrations on Thursday, May 26, at the Senior Prom held at The Meadow Wood in Randolph. Graduation is set for next Friday, June 17! 

      MOMS Duo Play Elite Lacrosse

      Mt. Olive High School Seniors Celebrate At Prom

      Mt. Olive High School Seniors Celebrate At Prom

      Two Mt. Olive 8th Grade Lacrosse players Jake Reiner (LSM/ D) and Gavin Donahue (Mid) were tapped to play in the prestigious Gil Gibbs All-Star Games where North Jersey’s top elite eighth-grade lacrosse players convened at Drew University on Sunday, June 5, to compete. 

      Bonded Cats Awaiting Adoption

      Mt. Olive High School Seniors Celebrate At Prom

      MOHS Named A Top U.S. High School

      These two love bugs have been in foster care with the Mt. Olive TNR Project for six months because it's hard to find a home for a bonded pair of adult cats. But as anyone would agree,  these guys do not want to be separated! They're 7 years old, healthy, and very affectionate, and lost their last home when a resident passed away. They're neutered, up to date on shots, microchipped, negative for FIV/FeLV, and ready for adoption. 

      To give these two the home they deserve, please contact mtolivetnr@gmail.com or (973) 804-6273 or fill out an application at www.mtolivetnr.org.   

      MOHS Named A Top U.S. High School

      May Observed as Older Americans & Mental Health Awareness Month

      MOHS Named A Top U.S. High School

      Mt. Olive High School in Flanders was recently named one of the best high schools in the country by U.S. News and World Report.

      MOHS ranked in the top 8% of high schools nationwide and received an overall score of 91.6%. The scoring criteria included college readiness, the percentage of students completing AP courses, the graduation rate, and the percentage of students proficient in math, reading, and science.

      “Everyone in the school community is brimming with pride and Marauder spirit at the national recognition,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Zywicki. “Whenever I step foot into the high school, there is always a palpable energy and sense of purpose. From engineering and entrepreneurship to TV production and robotics, the breadth of programs and extracurriculars provide every student the ability to pursue courses of interest and which prepare them for college and a fulfilling career.”

      Over the past several years, MOHS has continued to grow and evolve. Innovative new courses in computer science, business, anatomy, social studies and special education were added.

      The school has also made a concerted effort to encourage all students to enroll in challenging high-level coursework. Additional partnerships were formed with several universities. This allows students to receive college credit by taking college courses at MOHS, taught by MOHS teachers. More AP classes were added, too, bringing the total to nearly 30, and the district adopted an AP financial incentive program to help pay for AP exam registration fees. The incentive program helps overcome any cost barriers that were dissuading students from underrepresented demographics from pursuing AP courses.

      Earlier this spring, the school and district received two other honors. MOHS was chosen as one of 16 model schools by the International Center for Leadership in Education, an organization that supports effective instructional practices that lead to accelerated learning for all students. A team from the school district will present details of the high school’s unique programming at the 30th annual Model Schools Conference in Orlando, Fla. in late June.

      The district as a whole was also honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation, in association with the University of Kansas. The honor is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. This is the sixth consecutive year the district has been recognized by NAMM.                                                                                      


      May Observed as Older Americans & Mental Health Awareness Month

      May Observed as Older Americans & Mental Health Awareness Month

      May Observed as Older Americans & Mental Health Awareness Month

      The Morris County Board of County Commissioners issued proclamations for both Older Americans Month 2022 and Mental Health Awareness Month, both of which are observed annually each May across the United States. 

      “It is important every year to recognize the people in our society who went before us,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen during a work session meeting of the board. “They built this nation; and we also recognize the wisdom they have amassed over time, and that we may still benefit from it every day.”

      He presented a framed proclamation to Christine Hellyer, director of the Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities, & Community Programming, and to Carol Stoltz, who retired from that office April 30 after 21 years as a care manager, working with seniors and people with disabilities.  “In our annual observance of Mental Health Awareness, we also give special thanks to our dedicated mental healthcare providers,” said Selen.

      “That includes everyone in our Office of Health and our Department of Human Services, especially our Division of Community and Behavioral Health Services,” he said. “It also includes the dedicated members of our Hope One mobile units and Morris County’s Navigating Hope program, and it includes the Morris County Mental Health Addictions Services Advisory Board, which is represented here tonight, among others.”

       He presented the proclamation for Mental Health Awareness Month to Morris County Mental Health Administrator Amy Archer and Cheryl Garodnick, vice chair of the Advisory Board.

      Older Americans Month

      “We are very lucky that Morris County and the Commissioner support our Morris County seniors,” said Hellyer. “So, thank you to the Commissioners for all the support, and thank you to the administration for what you do for us to help the seniors in our community."

      “I can’t emphasize the importance of the programs and services available to our seniors from Morris County,” added Stoltz. “When we go into the homes of our seniors, the most important thing, other than their health, that they want is to age in place. They want to remain in their home. I’m just so happy we were able to do that on behalf of the county.” 

      May Observed as Older Americans & Mental Health Awareness Month

      May Observed as Older Americans & Mental Health Awareness Month

       Mental Health Awareness Month 

      “Now more than ever we are seeing a mental health crisis, not only in our county, but in the state and on a national level,” said Archer. “So thank you very much for the recognition and thank you for all the support you give to Morris County residents when it comes to behavioral health.”

      Garodnick added, “Thank you for this recognition and for supporting the community with funding sources regarding mental health services. The current multi-level needs for mental health services include supporting resources that are addressing an opioid overdose epidemic, a suicide prevention initiative and a global pandemic. There’s no time like the present for us to prioritize mental health services.” 

      The Highlands Natural Pool Opens To All

      Arc of Warren County Renames Oxford Group Home

      Arc of Warren County Renames Oxford Group Home

      This unique -spring-fed pool is surrounded by the beauty of Norvin Green State Forest. It was first opened more than 80 years ago as part of the nation's first racially integrated camp (Camp Midvale). Some say Highlands Pool has healing properties but, at the very least, visitors will find themselves relaxed in the midst of nature. The pool is not treated with chemicals but the water is constantly refreshed by the stream that fills it. For those who are not much of a swimmer, there is still plenty to do at The Highlands Natural Pool. Visitors will find snacks, drinks, picnic area and a volleyball court.   

      There are also board games to borrow and the pool offers free Wi-Fi.    

      The Highlands Natural Pool is currently run by a non-profit group, the Community Association of the Highlands, which offers day passes as well as seasonal memberships. Being fed by a natural spring, the pool is not heated and the water temperature rarely rises above 65 degrees. Brisk and bracing, the temperature is actually quite refreshing on a hot summer day. The depth of the pool ranges from under 4' in the shallow section to over 10' at the deep end. It's the perfect place to cool down after a long hike in the surrounding area. Annual memberships and day passes are available to all. 

      Visit https://www.highlandsnaturalpool.org/  

      Arc of Warren County Renames Oxford Group Home

      Arc of Warren County Renames Oxford Group Home

      Arc of Warren County Renames Oxford Group Home

      The Arc of Warren County community came together, on May 9, for a dedication ceremony in memory of Pieter Woodcock of Blairstown, a beloved member of The Arc of Warren County family. The Oxford Group Home will now be known as The Pieter Woodcock Group Home. The recognition was a result of The Arc Board of Directors’ decision to celebrate Pieter’s longstanding commitment to the organization posthumously.      

      Woodcock served as The Arc of Warren County’s Board of Directors president and later served as the president of the HUD committee. He also worked as a Direct Support Professional at the Oxford Group Home from 2010 to 2020 after a successful career in pharmaceutical sales. His son, Daniel, utilized The Arc of Warren County services since he was an infant.      

      “Pieter was an exceptional individual,” says John Whitehead, CEO of The Arc of Warren County. “He is sorely missed and will never be forgotten. This is a small way to show how grateful our community is for the positive impact that he had on everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.”   During the ceremony, The Arc of Warren County was presented with a New Jersey Joint Legislative Resolution honoring the memory of Woodcock and his commitment to the agency.      

      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 68 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. 

      More Local & College News

      Mt. Olive Exercisers Offers Outdoor Fitness Classes

      Trailblazer in Therapeutic Riding Receives Centenary’s Highest Honor

      Trailblazer in Therapeutic Riding Receives Centenary’s Highest Honor

      June is time to tune those bodies for shorts and swimsuits!

      Mt. Olive Exercisers is offering diverse fitness classes at local parks. Cardio, aerobics, Zumba, kickbox, toning, walking classes, Pilates and Yoga is being taught daily by experienced instructors. 

      Classes are fun, creative and affordable!  Come check out "The Sky is the Limit" this season.

      Make the move, nothing to lose but pounds and inches!

      Email cherylc6@optonline.net for more information.

      Trailblazer in Therapeutic Riding Receives Centenary’s Highest Honor

      Trailblazer in Therapeutic Riding Receives Centenary’s Highest Honor

      Trailblazer in Therapeutic Riding Receives Centenary’s Highest Honor

      Centenary University in Hackettstown awarded the Gold Dome Award—the University’s highest honor—to a trailblazer in the field of therapeutic riding for her commitment to providing equine opportunities to children and adults with special needs, veterans, and the university’s students.

      Professor Emeritus of Equine Studies Dr. Octavia Brown of Hackettstown, was feted at CU at the Stables, the University’s annual scholarship fundraising event, on June 2, 6:30 p.m., at the Centenary University David and Carol Lackland Center.   

      “Octavia Brown has made a positive impact on the lives of so many through her tireless commitment to therapeutic riding,” said Dr. Bruce Murphy. “Early on, she recognized the power that equine-assisted services have to promote confidence, independence and healing. At Centenary University, we are proud to honor Dr. Brown with the Gold Dome Award for the tremendous impact she has made, both at our university and around the world.”   

      A longtime Centenary faculty member, Brown is a founder of the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association. Now known as PATH International, the nonprofit has 7,000 members worldwide who help support more than 53,000 special needs individuals, including nearly 6,000 veterans, through a variety of equine-assisted services. At Centenary,  Brown is the former director of TRAC (Therapeutic Riding at Centenary), an accredited adaptive riding program that fosters beneficial interactions between horses and humans and provides training for professionals in the field of equine-assisted education and therapy. 


      Trailblazer in Therapeutic Riding Receives Centenary’s Highest Honor

      CCM Offers Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship

      Through Operation Centaur, the university also provides the benefits of therapeutic riding to military veterans and their family members.   Born in England, Brown emigrated to the United States in 1964. She earned a Master of Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education in 1971 and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Centenary in 2008. A past president of the Federation of Riding for the Disabled International, Dr. Brown has been recognized with numerous awards, including the James Brady Award for Lifetime Achievement in Therapeutic Riding, PATH International’s highest honor.   

      Centenary University has one of the nation’s leading collegiate equine studies programs, offering several specialty fields of study and competitive riding teams. Centenary’s ANRC team recently captured the 2022 ANRC National Equitation Championship, and the University has a near-perfect track record for student acceptance to selective veterinary schools.

      CU at the Stables will help to raise critical unrestricted scholarships to provide financial support for Centenary students who may not otherwise be able to bridge the gap between tuition and financial aid. Each year, the university offers more than $14 million in scholarship support to Centenary students.  

      CCM Offers Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship

      CCM Offers Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship

      CCM Offers Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship

      County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph is offering individuals an opportunity to explore a well-paying career path in advanced manufacturing by taking part in paid, on-the-job training, this summer through its Career Advance USA apprenticeship program. Plus, for a limited time, CCM is offering little to no cost funding for the training to those who qualify.                

      The first step is to attend an Information Session, online, via Zoom, to learn more about participating in a four to nine-week-long boot camp. For about 20 hours each week, as early as this summer, students may acquire the basic skills of machine learning and safety in the college’s state-of-the-art Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center (AMEC). Featuring the latest equipment in a high-tech environment, AMEC gives students the opportunity to learn advanced skills such as blueprint reading, benchworking, geometric dimensioning and tolerance, 2-D and 3-D computer-aided design, and computer-aided manufacturing.

      Upon completion of the boot camp, students participate in on-campus interviews with local employers looking to hire one who can take part in an apprenticeship program that provides on-the-job training, while receiving related technical instruction at CCM’s Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center. While the apprenticeship program is offered at no cost, there is a $3,750 fee, plus the purchase of supplies, to take part in the boot camp. Currently, there are opportunities for scholarships, funding for those unemployed or underemployed, as well as structured payment options. All participants can gain college credit as well and eventually continue at CCM to pursue a college degree, if desired.  It is estimated that over the next decade the field of advanced manufacturing needs to fill 3.4 million jobs with most of those positions being related to the pending retirement of baby boomers. Along with good job prospects, the field pays well with an average starting salary of $65,000 to $85,000 plus benefits after completing an apprenticeship.                    

      If curious about a rewarding career in advanced manufacturing, join a CCM Information Session, held virtually, and learn more. The sessions take place online, via Zoom, each Wednesday as follows: June 8, 5 p.m.; June 22, 5 p.m.; July 6, noon;   July 20, 9 a.m.; August 3, noon; August 15, 5 p.m.; August 31, 2 p.m.   In-person, tours of AMEC, are offered on Tues., June 14, Thurs., July 14 and Wed., August 10.   To learn more about CCM’s advanced manufacturing apprenticeship program, to register for an information session and receive the Zoom, and/or to register for a facility tour, go to www.ccm.edu/apprenticeships-careeradvanceusa/ or email CareerUSA@ccm.edu.   

      Assemblywoman Dunn Displays Artwork of CCM Students

      CCM Offers Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship

      Assemblywoman Dunn Displays Artwork of CCM Students

      Assemblywoman Aura Dunn has opened her Chester office for the third time to the work of six art students from College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph, giving the public the chance to view and enjoy the pastel landscapes of these talented artists.   Dunn is carrying on a tradition established by Senator Anthony M. Bucco in 2013. While serving as an assemblyman, he began showcasing the exceptional work of CCM artists. The Summer/Fall installation continues that longstanding relationship with students from Professor Todd Doney’s Drawing II class.   

      “Having our students show their work at Assemblywoman Dunn’s office is terrific vehicle to gain exposure for their work,” Doney said. “Many people go in and out of the Assemblywoman’s office on a daily basis and since the exhibit is in the waiting area, it is almost impossible to miss. We are all very happy to continue this partnership.”    

      The students were asked to explore and portray the beauty of Morris County in their work.  The current exhibit includes “Great Swamp” by Frederick Caracci of Morristown, “Landscape in New Jersey” by Yunjie Chen of Randolph, “Pink Sunset” by Elizabeth Frost of Great Meadows, “Beach/White Meadow Lake” by Cassidy Lazariuk of Rockaway, “Leaving Morris County” by Nate Quintero of Newton, and “Mooney Mountain” by Jessica Vassoler of Roxbury.   

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

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

      Professional Health Careers Open House Set At CCM

      CCM Offers Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship

      Assemblywoman Dunn Displays Artwork of CCM Students

      County College of Morris in Randolph invites all who interested in learning about the many exciting and rewarding health careers to an Open House on Saturday, June 11, in Cohen Hall, Room 124 from 9 a.m. to noon.

      “Whether you are new to CCM or a current student not yet in the professional phases, we invite you to learn about health and exercise science, nursing, public health, paramedic science, radiography and respiratory therapy,” says Professor Lesley Anne Andrew, chairperson of the Department of Nursing. “Find out where your CCM education can take you.”    

      CCM is currently ranked #1 in New Jersey for best associate degrees and in the top 1.8 percent of the best community colleges nationwide by Intelligent.   

      The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in healthcare occupations to grow 16 percent by 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations, adding about $2.6 million new jobs, more than any other sector. The most recent median annual wage for healthcare practitioners and technical occupations is $75,040.   

      According to College Factual, the CCM nursing, radiography and respiratory therapy associate degree programs rank in the top 10 percent nationwide.    “The department’s dedicated and enthusiastic faculty members are committed to providing premier certificate of achievement and associate degree programs to equip students with the intellectual, technical and professional competencies required to excel and advance,” says Dr. Maria Isaza, dean of the School of Health Professions & Natural Sciences. “Teaching laboratories provide students with hands-on experience using state-of-the-art computer technology, software, specialized equipment, and simulation allowing them to gain experience with equipment utilized in the field.”   

      CCM nursing graduates who take the National Council for Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) historically achieve a pass rate of more than 90%, exceeding the national average.    

      “The CCM paramedic program has seated its second class and will soon be eligible to apply for initial CAAHEP accreditation,” says Program Director Andrea Murray. “Students rotate through various clinical sites without the need for Mobile Intensive Care Unit sponsorship, completing both didactic and clinical courses concurrently, and finish the professional phase of the program within 18 months.” Graduates earn a AAS degree in Paramedic Science and are eligible for National Registry paramedic licensure and New Jersey Paramedic Certification.   

      CCM classes are offered during the day, evenings, in-person, hybrid and online to make learning convenient for both traditional and non-traditional students.    

      “If you can dream it, you can do it – the School of Health Professions & Natural Sciences is there every step of the way,” says Isaza.   

      For more information about the Open House, call (973) 328-5340 or email HPNS@ccm.edu. To learn more about the School of Health Professions and Natural Sciences at CCM visit https://www.ccm.edu/academics/divdep/health-professions-natural-sciences/ 

      CCM Selected as Finalist in Lumina Million $ Grant Challenge

      CCM Selected as Finalist in Lumina Million $ Grant Challenge

      CCM Selected as Finalist in Lumina Million $ Grant Challenge

      Further attesting to its growing national reputation, County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph is now one of 10 colleges nationwide – and the only one in New Jersey – to have been selected as a finalist by Lumina Foundation in its Million Dollar Community College Challenge.   

      A national grant competition to assist two-year institutions with brand building and marketing, the challenge is designed to help community colleges to connect with adult students who need a college degree or short-term credential. As a finalist, CCM is now in the running for the million-dollar grand prize, along with technical assistance, to support its marketing and branding initiatives. The grand prize winner will be announced in August. Each of the remaining nine finalists will receive $100,000 to support its branding and marketing, along with technical assistance.   

      “The Million Dollar Community College Challenge is all about promoting the opportunities at community colleges and connecting adults to higher education,” said Shauna David, strategy director for community college participation at Lumina.  “The 10 finalists each submitted a compelling vision for making vital campus-to-community connections and creative ideas for promoting their college’s brand.”   

      “We’re delighted to have been selected by such a prestigious national organization and to have our marketing efforts supported and recognized,” said Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, CCM president. “Reaching the adult market is an essential part of a community college’s mission, in that we offer the flexibility and affordability that is needed to improve one’s life when there are so many other competing responsibilities, such as work and family. We applaud Lumina for providing additional support so more people can reach for their dreams.”   

      Also selected as finalists were the College of Eastern Idaho, Community College of Rhode Island, Great Falls College, Houston Community College, Long Beach City College, Madera Community College, Madison Area Technical College, Minnesota State College Southeast, Montana State University and Northwest-Shoals Community College.                    To move to the next stage in the challenge, each of the finalist is required to develop a creative brief and a video narrative that communicates what the college promises adult students.   

      Lumina is an independent, private foundation based in Indianapolis committed to making opportunities for learning beyond high school available to all. It envisions a system that is easy to navigate, delivers fair results, and meets the nation's need for talent through a broad range of credentials. Its goal is to prepare people for informed citizenship and for success in a global economy.   

      CCM is currently ranked #1 in New Jersey for best associate degrees and in the top 1.8 percent of the best community colleges nationwide by Intelligent. The college continues to maintain its #1 position in the state in PayScale’s “Best Community Colleges in New Jersey by Salary Potential,” a distinction it has held for five years in a row.   

      To learn more about CCM visit www.ccm.edu      

      CCM Celebrates Class of 2022 with In-Person Commencement

      CCM Selected as Finalist in Lumina Million $ Grant Challenge

      CCM Selected as Finalist in Lumina Million $ Grant Challenge

      After two years of holding virtual commencement ceremonies due to the pandemic, County College of Morris in Randolph returned to the Mennen Sports Arena in Morris Twp. on Friday, May 20, 10 a.m. to noon, to hold an in-person celebration for the Class of 2022 to recognize and celebrate its latest graduates. This year’s class consisted of approximately 1,200 graduates.   

      The Fifty-Third Commencement was live streamed at https://bit.ly/CCM_Class2022/.   Welcoming the graduates, Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, CCM president, commended student leaders Leann Benny and Peter Balluffi-Fry for developing a strong student life environment at CCM during a pandemic. Amongst many volunteer responsibilities, the individuals along with their peers reinitiated clubs and activities first online, then in hybrid format, and then back on campus with innovative events to provide a sense of normalcy, human connectivity and accomplishment.   

      CCM Board of Trustees Chair George J. Milonas, a CCM alumnus, commended the graduates for their bravery during the pandemic.    

      “Every graduate has a story,” said Milonas, “and your stories are powerful and inspiring,” he said. “You conquered it, you are graduating, and this day is about celebrating you, your achievement and your future, which is bright and strong.”    

      He advised the graduates to pursue a life that is well-lived, “dream big, and don’t bet against yourself, you are our future leaders.”   County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, who immigrated to the United States in 1996, praised the strong partnership CCM has with Morris County, working to integrate local educational programs with lucrative employment opportunities. “We built the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center … and are ready to build a new Entrepreneurship and Culinary Science Center.” Land is being allocated for a new Career and Technical Education Center on campus also. Selen recommended that the graduates embrace and own the unique opportunities for success and growth.   

      Serving as the Keynote Speaker was CCM’s own Dr. Maria Isaza, a 1999 graduate of the college. Former chair of Biology & Chemistry, she has been the dean of the School of Health Professions & Natural Sciences since 2021. Born in the Republic of Colombia, Isaza came to the U.S. at the age of 21. She began her college education by enrolling in an English as a Second Language course at CCM.

      Isaza spoke with empathy, compassion and pride, truly grateful to have the opportunity to share her story with those in attendance. She went into detail about life as an immigrant and wearing many hats in various forms of employment. She began her education at CCM in 1993 and gradually completed each rigorous component including earning her Ph.D. while balancing other responsibilities. Isaza’s take home message to the graduates was to “stay in touch with your professors.”   Serving as the student speaker, Benny spoke to her peers about the qualities they learned to quickly adopt – perseverance, determination and resiliency, and the obstacles the Titans overcame. “Class of 2022, we made it!”  

      Future Possibilities

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

       

      Writing out our goals and the possibilities that open up when we accomplish our goals can help us to remain motivated and see the big picture.

      Write out what you want your future to look like. Use any many details as possible.  Write out the possibilities that could happen when you accomplish your goal. If my goal was accomplished as planned, what would it look like? feel like? How would it change my life? Would it impact those around me?

      What if I became paralyzed by fear and nothing changed? How would I feel one year from now doing the same things over and over?

      What if I only accomplished some of my goals and my life changed a little but not fully - how would I feel? Would my life improve a little bit? Would I feel motivated by the small successes to move forward?

      Starting small is good as long as we celebrate the small wins.   Write out your goals. 

      Put the goals in order of importance.

      Put action steps next to each goal to help you get started. 

      Be mindful of any obstacles that could come up - prepare/plan for them.

      Notice the possibilities that open up from the positive changes and accomplishments. 

      Visualize your life with your goals accomplished every morning for 1 -2 minutes. This will help you see the possibilities and keep you motivated. 

      Your future is waiting..

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

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