Mt. Olive Online Publication March 21, 2023

Mt. Olive Online
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Local Family ‘Surhounds’ Dogs On Last Leg With Love

By Cheryl Conway

Three years ago a local family fostered a three-legged hound that was diagnosed with just six to nine months to live.

When this hospice dog, Mamma Mabel, proved everyone wrong and kept on living, the Adkins family of Budd Lake decided to adopt her and even start a sanctuary to provide elderly and hospice dogs a comfortable dwelling.

Melissa Adkins, 40, and her 11-year-old son Braydon Adkins established Mamma Mabel’s Inn in 2018, a non-profit sanctuary named after the one and only Mamma Mabel.

The mission of the sanctuary, which is located at their home, is to provide “senior and hospice dogs a comfortable home to live out their golden years or end of life surrounded by love, or as we like to say sur’hound’ed,” says Melissa Adkins, who works as a digital media content creator.

“We started to foster dogs as a way to give back to the community,” she explains.

Mamma Mabel was their third foster. After losing her leg to cancer, the tripod hound found herself surrendered to a Bladen County, NC shelter at 10 years old after her family could no longer afford her care. 

“We immediately said we would take her because we couldn’t let her live in a kennel with only months left to live,” she says. “That was three years ago! And Mamma Mabel is still alive and well. We officially adopted her in 2018 and realized there was a need for older and hospice dogs. Our next step was to incorporate and become a non-profit so we could do more to help our partner rescues. Of course, Mabel is our namesake, Mamma Mabel’s Inn.

“Our inspirational foster, Mamma Mabel,” she says was the perfect name for their sanctuary. “She has survived longer than anyone said she could, and she loves welcoming new fur guests to her home, but makes it well known she is the boss.”

The whole idea behind their sanctuary is to provide love, support, comfort and care to animals on their last leg of life.

“We can’t stand to see elderly, hospice or dogs with special needs in a kennel,” she says. “They deserve to live surrounded in love and comfort. Our mission is to make sure they know they are loved more than they believe and will never be alone again.”

Adkins and her son work as a team with no other employees but they do have  several rescue partners: Gio Fund in North Carolina and 11th Hour Rescue in Randolph.

“We help them keep their senior/hospice population out of kennels,” says Adkins.

“We partner with rescues who have foster programs.”

Ruff, Ruff, Ruff

Mamma Mabel’s Inn caters to dogs.

“We are not breed specific, but because most of our dogs come from the south, they are often retired or abandoned hunting dogs and don’t do well with cats,” explains Adkins.

They currently have five permanent residents and two foster “who may become adoptable once we figure out their medical situation,” says Adkins.

Permanent residents include: Ruby, 10 yr. old tri colored beagle – “she was given up by an owner who didn’t want her anymore because she was unable to yelp puppies;” Bruno, 8 yr. old tri-colored beagle coonhound-“he is extremely skittish with separation anxiety and we don’t know his background;” Buster, 9 yr. old brindle Chihuahua – “imperfect breeder dog who lived the first few months of his life never seeing the outside of a crate;” Cooper, 9 yr. old red pug chihuahua-“his elderly owner passed away leaving him abandoned; Mamma Mabel, 13 yr. old white plott hound – “mast cell disease causes her to constantly need mass removal surgeries.”

Fosters include: Abbie, 14 yr. old white Maltese-“potentially has a cancerous lump;” Marley, 12 yr. old lemon beagle-“recovering from a recent rear leg amputation and lives with mast cell disease, just like Mabel!”

Since its opening three years ago, the sanctuary has helped 32 dogs and two cats, says Adkins.

Home Sweet Home

The dogs kept at Mamma Mabel’s Inn are welcomed with pure love and hospitality.

“They live in our home like pets, free to wander, rest, and play,” says Adkins. “We also have a fenced off piece of yard and baby gated deck for outside play.”

Unlike other inns that require check in and check out times, guests at Mamma Mabel’s Inn are never dogged nor charged a late fee.

“Buster is our original pup,” says Adkins. “He’s been around for nine years. As far as fosters, Mamma Mabel is our longest member at three years.”

Rates are not cheap but thanks to generous donors Mamma Mabel’s Inn has yet to close its doors to customers.

“We average between $8,000 and $10,000 per year depending on how many guests we receive and their needs when they arrive,” says Adkins.

To cover the expenses such as food, grooming and materials like blankets or food bowls, Adkins says “We rely fully on our generous donors. In addition, we maintain an Etsy shop, and have written a children’s book. All funds from those sales go directly to our pups.

“Our biggest challenge, like most non-profits, is funding,” she adds. “We have plans to renovate our dog yard into more of a dog park. We also need to find a way to make our home more handicapped accessible for the dogs we currently need to carry up and down stairs. Of course, this all requires money.”

Caring for these animals is a full-time gig for the Adkins’ team.

“This is what we do full time,” says Adkins. “It is a 24/7 labor of love.”

Volunteers and donations are always welcome.

“We sometimes need in-home sitters,” says Adkins. “We would love to have a few we could count on!”

To help or donate, visit www.mammamabelsinn.com or mammamabels@gmail.com. 

Also support the sanctuary by ordering Adkins’ children’s book: “The Adventures of Mama Mabel: Everyone Deserves To Be Loved,” at  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0924CL5F4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_MSZYKP52F51MNHSDE8D8 

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    Welcome readers to the 71st issue of Mt. Olive Online.

    Former BOE Member Selected To Fill Vacated Seat

    By Cheryl Conway

    After serving on the Mt. Olive Board of Education for his first term, John Petrie of Flanders missed having a say in how the district operates.

    When a seat was left vacated after former BOE member Nolan Stephens resigned in April, Petrie jumped in for his return. He submitted a letter of interest and was selected as the chosen candidate among four other applicants.

    On June 7, the Mt. Olive BOE held a special meeting interviewing each of the five candidates seeking to fill the BOE seat. Petrie was grateful to be selected and shares what his intentions are now that he is back in his seat.

    “I missed having a say in how the district operates so I submitted my letter of interest,” explains Petrie who has lived in the Cloverhill section of Flanders for more than 13 years.

    Petrie had served on the Mt. Olive BOE from Jan. 2018 – Dec. 2020. 

    “I ran for re-election in 2020 and did not garner the needed votes for the election,” he says, so had to leave his seat.

    “I have not served on any other board in town,” he says. “I have coached the Rec Track team for a few years.”

    As a father of two children, Petrie pays attention to what is going on with the school district to benefit not only his children but all students in town.

    “My son is 11 and will be starting middle school in September and my daughter is 9 and will be in 4th grade,” he says.

    His greatest contribution while serving his first term: “I would say getting full-day kindergarten in the district. It was one of the reasons I ran for the board in 2018. When the full board approved of implementing it in the district after years of talking about it felt great. I was able to go to Mountain View’s Full-Day K orientation and it was fulfilling.”

    His goals for this term are to learn, help the BOE reach its goals and do the best job he can as a volunteer.

    “The district has strategic goals, so my goal is to ensure the board takes the appropriate actions to help the district reach those goals,” says Petrie.

    “I hope that I can do the job I was selected to do with to the best of my ability and keeping in mind it’s not about me, but the district.”

    Since he has enjoyed his time on the BOE, Petrie does plan to run for a full term after this one runs out in January.

    “I do plan on running for a full three-year term this coming election,” says Petrie. “This term runs through the Reorganization Meeting in early January.”

    A lot of meetings, a lot of decisions, Petrie does not seem to mind.

    “I enjoy getting a better understanding of how the district runs,” he says. “It’s different than what I imagined before I was elected in 2018.”

    The BOE president did not comment as to why Petrie was chosen to fill the vacated seat; Petrie does not know why he was selected out of the five candidates… but from his response anyone can speculate that his ethics and care of others has something to do with their choice.

    “I did not ask, to be honest,” says Petrie. “I was not sure if it would have been ethical to ask anyone why, I was just appreciative of the vote.

    “I was appreciative of the current board selecting me but also felt bad for those who did not get picked,” he adds. “They were all willing to volunteer their time for the betterment of the town.” 

    New Boutique Store Adds Sparkle & Flare To MO Shopping

    By Cheryl Conway    


    No need for locals to schlep to downtown areas in other cities to shop for distinctive fashion clothing and accessories.

    A specialty boutique store for women and children recently opened right in Mt. Olive. Sparkle Couture Boutique held its grand opening on Friday, July 16, with a weekend long celebration with prizes and giveaways.

    Located at the Mall on 206, 244 Route 206, Unit #5, in Flanders, where Oxford Learning Center vacated a few years back- Sparkle Couture Boutique is a family run business owned by Liliana Goncalves, a 36-year-old resident of Flanders.

    Like coordinating outfits, jewelry and accessories, Goncalves matches her family, home and business to fit into her lifestyle. 

    “I am the only owner of the boutique’s LLC as far as what’s on the state’s paperwork, but we are family run,” says Goncalves, boutique owner. “My husband, Daniel Goncalves, runs the boutique with me.”

    As Mt. Olive residents for three years now, Goncalves wanted to open her business in her hometown.

    “We chose this location because we live and love Mt Olive,” says Goncalves. “It is the perfect location for us since it is so close to home and the children’s school. “It’s in a shopping center amongst amazing local businesses who have been around for a long time.

    “We choose Mt. Olive for our store because this is where we live,” she adds. “This is our community. Moving here three years ago was the best decision we could have made to raise to our family.”

    One-Stop Shop

    Inside the 1,900 sq. ft. store, shoppers will find specialty clothing and accessories for women and children.

    “We are a women and children’s boutique,” says Goncalves. “We are a one stop shop where you come in for something for yourself and can grab something for your child or a birthday gift for a friend. We carry accessories from purses to jewelry to shoes to complete your outfit. We also carry luxury handmade bath and body products.”

    She says, “One of the unique things about my boutique is that there are no other boutiques around us.”

    Prices are affordable and many items are handmade in America and throughout the world.

    “We have items that range from $5 to $75,” she says.

    “We believe that we cater to all age groups and there is something for everyone,” adds Goncalves. “Everyone has different and unique tastes, and we strive to house a wide variety so there is always something for everyone.

    “We carry all women’s sizes from small-3XL as well as children’s 0-3 months all the way to 10-12 years old,” she says.

    Goncalves has found it her passion to hunt for affordable items while also supporting women who hand create the items.

    “I personally curate every single item in the store from different vendors and companies,” says Goncalves. “Some of the items are also handmade by moms and women because I am a firm believer that we should support one another in all possible ways.

    “Some of the clothes are made in America and some are from around the world,” she says. “So, there is a mixture.” 






    Passion For Fashion

    Goncalves turned her passion into her profession. 

     “Finding all the things at the best possible prices is one of my favorite things to do,” says Goncalves, who has more of a legal background with a bachelor’s in criminal justice with a minor in English from Rutgers University.  “I worked in a law firm for many years before staying home with my children,” she explains. “My husband and I have a separate business that we run for many years now.” 

    While her doors just opened last month, Goncalves has been running her boutique online for several years.  “We have had our boutique open online for three years and it has always been a dream of mine to one day open a physical store for the boutique,” she says. “We did not have any challenges in opening the store.  We put lots of renovations and love to make our vision a reality."

    Interacting face to face with customers has been most fulfilling to Goncalves.  

    “I also love meeting all the wonderful people and helping them pick out or put together outfits,” she says.  “When you come to Sparkle Couture Boutique you will feel welcomed and you are #1,” she says. “The connections that we make with one another are the best part of my day. Gals come in who we may not know but they absolutely leave as a part of the family." 

    Treating customers as a friend or family is Goncalves best way of doing business. 

    “Our goal is to strive to always give the best customer service, always make everyone feel welcomed when they come in our doors and build a friendship,” says Goncalves.  “We hope to be here for many, many years with the love and support of our community.”

    Fall apparel and community outreach are coming to the Sparkle Couture Boutique “near you.”

    “We are looking forward to the upcoming fall season with fall inspired graphic tees, leggings, amazing jeans, boots, cardigans and sweaters and so much more!” says Goncalves 

    .As far as community outreach, Goncalves says, “We are looking forward to doing all that we can in our community.  Our plans are to help with fundraising for our children’s school, our son’s cub scout troop as well as our daughter’s dance school and any other opportunities that come our way.”

    The Goncalves have two kids.

    “Our son Ryan is 10 and going into 5th grade at Mountain View," she says.  "Our daughter Riley is 4 and starting pre-k at Mountain View.”

    They help when they can.

    “My husband is greatly involved with our son’s Cub Scout Troop and I help whenever needed at my children’s school,” she says. 

    Store hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. or 4 p.m. on Sundays.

    For more information or questions about Sparkle Couture Boutique, email: liliana@sparklecouture.com; call 973-500-3470; and visit www.sparklecouture.com. 

    Photo Gallery

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      Chabad Sending Love Packages To Near & Dear

      By Cheryl Conway

      The pandemic has brought on some new challenges for many, and with that, the local Jewish community is stepping up to provide some extra comfort and love.

      The project is called Touch of Love and it is being sponsored by the Chabad Jewish Center and local donors. It kicked off this month and will be ongoing, according to Fraida Shusterman of the Chabad Jewish Center of Northwest New Jersey Western Region in Flanders. 

      The Chabad has always been there for support of its Jewish community, but since COVID 19, the Jewish organization is stepping up to provide yet another kind gesture to show empathy, love and support during both difficult and happy times.

      “COVID has affected everyone in many ways on every level,” says Shusterman.  “Chabad has always been there for their fellow Jew and now we need to be out there more than ever.”

      With the Touch of Love project, “A special love package is delivered to local Jewish families who are going through a health challenge, have moved into town, have God forbid lost a loved one, or welcome a new baby,” says Shusterman.

      Residents living in Mt. Olive, Chester, Long Valley and Warren County are eligible to receive a package. Nominations of a family or individual, as well as volunteering or support can come from near or far.

      The objective of this project is “To add a touch a love and let the family know that there are people in the Jewish community out there who care for them and who are looking out for them,” says Shusterman.

      “Nobody feels alone,” as stated on the flyer. “We celebrate and overcome challenges together.” 

      Shusterman has no idea how many packages will be requested but stands ready through the help of volunteers and sponsors. 

      “We don't know yet,” says Shusterman about the number of families who will get a package. She does say “Hopefully many for good things!” 

      Packages will be “Hand delivered through volunteers,” she says.

      Shusterman did not provide details of what is included in the packages nor its value.

      But, personally, a surprise package with lots of love tucked inside, is enough to warm anyone’s heart.    

      To participate, contact Rabbi Yaacov Shusterman, spiritually leader of the Chabad of Northwest N.J. Western Region.

      Email rabbi@mychabadcenter.com or call 973-933-6011.

      “We are excited for the launching of this new project!” concludes Shusterman. 

      Advertise in Mt. Olive Online

      Advertise in Mt. Olive Online

      Local and County News

      Morris County & Ort Farms Deliver Fresh Produce To Seniors

      Morris County & Ort Farms Deliver Fresh Produce To Seniors

      Outdoor Exercise Classes Offered

       

      The Sky Is The Limit With Mt. Olive Exercisers

      Experienced local instructors are on the move in Mt. Olive offering a variety of outdoor fitness classes to keep those bodies in shape this summer.

      Summer heats up with Zumba, Aerobics, Kickbox, Pilates, Yoga, Mt. Olive Walkers, Toning & More….All outdoors in various locations.

      $ Most affordable pricing around! $

      Email cherylc6@optonline.net for more information and schedule of daily classes. 

      Morris County & Ort Farms Deliver Fresh Produce To Seniors

      Morris County & Ort Farms Deliver Fresh Produce To Seniors

      Morris County & Ort Farms Deliver Fresh Produce To Seniors

      Ort Farms employee Leah Hoskins selects produce for individual orders placed by Morris County senior citizens.

      Photo by Karen Mancinelli


      Fresh produce picked at Ort Farms in Long Valley was packed in bags Wednesday, Aug. 4, to distribute the next day to senior citizens through a farm-to-table, pilot program operating this summer under a partnership between the long-time family farm and the Morris County Nutrition Program.

      The cooperative arrangement allows senior citizens to order produce that will be bagged at the farm and delivered to their housing complex within 24 hours.

      Morris County anticipates that nearly 200 bags of produce will be delivered this summer to seniors living in six Morris County senior housing units, said Christine Hellyer, director of the Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming. 

      The Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program is a federally-funded program that provides low-income seniors with coupons that can be exchanged for eligible foods such as fruits, vegetables, honey, and fresh-cut herbs at farmers' markets, roadside stands, and community supported agriculture programs. In Morris County, the program is being administered through the Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming's nutrition program.

      The Morris County Nutrition Program provides seniors who meet certain income qualifications with hot nutritious meals, education, and even opportunities for personal interaction through three program components: Congregate Meals, Home Delivered Meals and Weekend Meals. The program served 388,358 meals in 2020.

      For more information and income guidelines to qualify, visit the county's nutrition program website.

      Now in its sixth generation, Ort Farms is 400-acre farm currently run by three generations of the Ort family. The farm operates through all four our seasons, offering home-grown produce and other goods at their market stand, as well as recreational activities for visitors.

      National Night Out Lights Up MO

      Morris County & Ort Farms Deliver Fresh Produce To Seniors

      Morris County Searches For Purple Heart Heroes

      National Night Out was held Tuesday, August 3. A fabulous time was had by all.  Special thanks to the Mt. Olive Police Department and all the sponsors who assisted in making this a wonderful community event. 

      Morris County Searches For Purple Heart Heroes

      Morris County Searches For Purple Heart Heroes

      Morris County Searches For Purple Heart Heroes

      Photographs of sculpture and monument at the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor in New Windsor, N.Y.

      Photo by Jan Williams, County of Morris. 


      In the final days of the American Revolution, on Aug. 7, 1782, General George Washington established the Badge of Military Merit to, as his general orders stated, “cherish virtuous ambition in his soldiers.” It was the birth of what we now call the Purple Heart, presented to military personnel wounded in the line of duty.

      Morris County has a rich and storied history of Purple Heart honorees and its historians have joined the mission of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor in New Windsor, N.Y. to collect, preserve and share the stories of all Purple Heart recipients. As National Purple Heart Day approaches on Aug. 7, the Morris County Office of Planning and Preservation wants to make a full accounting of the local men and women who earned the honor, and the office is interested in any photographs, news accounts or artifacts that help to tell the story of each soldier.

      “The Purple Heart Project is another avenue for veterans to get their history out there. We want to include everyone, regardless of the conflict they served in. Veterans’ history isn’t just national or global history, it is also a personal history of families on a very local level – even gut level. 




      Morris County Searches For Purple Heart Heroes

      MO Carnival Fun

      It’s important for future generations to know what their ancestors did. Their bravery and sacrifices should not be forgotten,” said Jan Williams, a Cultural and Historic Resources Specialist with the Morris County Office of Planning & Preservation. 

      The county has a list of more than 350 area veterans who received the Purple Heart, but historians are convinced it is only a fraction of the actual number. Williams also noted that the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, which operates as a research center and maintains a national database of Purple Heart recipients, also is trying to make a full accounting on a national level.“This Purple Heart database contains service members’ names and units, but it has gaps and I hope that families will add this important information to the archives. For researchers and family members, it’s difficult to find information sources like this, completely cost free and easily accessed from home,” she explained.Anyone may enroll a Purple Heart recipient to the national database, but documentation is required. Go to https://www.thepurpleheart.com/.Contact Williams to add to Morris County’s accounting of its Purple Heart recipients by emailing her at jwilliams@co.morris.nj.us. 




      MO Carnival Fun

      Morris County Searches For Purple Heart Heroes

      MO Carnival Fun

      Rides, games, music and fun at the Mt. Olive Carnival held at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake July 14-18. 



      Mt. Olive Democrats Clean Link Rd. Adopt A Spot

      Mt. Olive Democrats Clean Link Rd. Adopt A Spot

      Mt. Olive Democrats Clean Link Rd. Adopt A Spot

      Photo by Elliot Schneier 


      The Mt. Olive Democrats held a clean-up event at their "Adopt a Spot " location on Link Road in Flanders on Saturday, July 17. Thanks to David Wilson, from left, Dr. Antoine Gayles, Scott Schafran, Donna Curley-Plesnarski, Irene Sergonis, Andy Meissner, Bob Clark, and Gerald Gallagher (not pictured), the road alongside Lowes at the ITC is cleaner and more beautiful. The team even planted red, white, and blue flowers around the sign.

      The Mt. Olive Democrats hold environmental events each month. Dr. Gayles is a member of the Board of Education and is a candidate for Mt. Olive Town Council.  For more information on upcoming events, please visit 

      http://www.mountolivedemocrats.org




      Sweeten The Year At High Holiday Services

      Mt. Olive Democrats Clean Link Rd. Adopt A Spot

      Mt. Olive Democrats Clean Link Rd. Adopt A Spot

      Dear Friends, 

      Don't let the weather fool you. Rosh Hashana is here, and it is time for apples and honey - the crowning food at the table.

      There is a difference between the sweetness of an apple and the sweetness of honey. An apple is a sweet fruit which grows on a tree. There is nothing surprising about that - many fruits are sweet. But honey comes from a bee - an insect that is not only inedible, it actually stings. Nevertheless, the honey that it produces is sweeter than the apple!

      There are two types of sweetness in our lives: We have times of family celebrations, successes in our careers, personal triumphs and harmonious relationships. Those are apple sweet times. 

      Then there is a different type of sweetness - a sweetness that comes from times of challenge. When things don't go the way we would like them to, when tragedy strikes, when our job is in jeopardy, when we fail to reach the goals we expected of ourselves, when our relationships are strained and tested, or when we feel alone. These challenges may seem bitter and insurmountable, like the sting of a bee. But if we are strong and withstand the difficulty of the time, we reveal layers of our personality that we would never have tapped into if we weren't challenged.  Covid could not have been a better example for this!

      So on the New Year, when we turn to a new page of our lives, we eat apples and honey. We bless each other and ourselves that in the year to come, the apples should bring sweetness, and what the bee stings should be even sweeter!  



      Mt. Olive Democrats Clean Link Rd. Adopt A Spot

      Free Monthly Community Dinners Set

      We hope you will make your year sweeter by joining us at the Chabad Jewish Center for meaningful and uplifting High Holidays. We all need a place to go, a place to learn, a place to celebrate, a place to explore Judaism, and a place to grow together as a loving and confident Jewish community.

      For more information, visit www.mychabadcenter.com  to find out about High Holiday service times, communal Rosh Hashanah dinner, Hebrew School and Jewish Mommy and Me registration, and more.  Every Jew is a member and no membership fee is required.  I am looking forward to welcoming you!

      We are truly all together, praying, hoping, and wishing us all a happy & sweet new year filled with excellent health, joy, peace, prosperity, and revealed good! 

       Shana Tova U'Metukah!

      Rabby Yaacov Shusterman; 973-933-6011; https://m.facebook.com/JewishMtOlive/  




      Free Monthly Community Dinners Set

      Orchestra To Sound At MO 150th Celebration

      Free Monthly Community Dinners Set

      First Presbyterian Church Of Hackettstown plans to host a free community dinner on the second Saturday of each month starting at 5:30 p.m. The first dinner is on Saturday, September 11. Dinners will be held at its chapel at 291 Main Street, Hackettstown. All are welcome to come and enjoy a free meal and fellowship with friends from the community! For more information, go to www.fpchackettstown.org

      Orchestra To Sound At MO 150th Celebration

      Orchestra To Sound At MO 150th Celebration

      Orchestra To Sound At MO 150th Celebration

      The Stone Soup Symphony Orchestra is set to play at the Mt. Olive Sesquicentennial Celebration on Saturday, September 18 at 2 p.m., at Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake.

      It will be the first time the full symphony orchestra has played in Mt. Olive. This is a free performance.

      For more information about the Stone Soup Symphony, its repertoire, contact Andy Meissner

      Violinist with Stone Soup Symphony at 973-580-3971; or visit  Stone Soup Symphony – Warren County NJ's Community Orchestra.

      Seniors Smile & Socialize

      Orchestra To Sound At MO 150th Celebration

      Orchestra To Sound At MO 150th Celebration

      Fun was had by all as the Seniors of Mt. Olive enjoyed delicious food, games and music at their Senior Picnic hosted by the Mt. Olive Health Department, on Tuesday, July 27, in the Senior Center. It was wonderful seeing everyone with smiles and socializing.  



      Other News

      County Commission Approves Historic Site Funding

      County Commission Approves Historic Site Funding

      County Commission Approves Historic Site Funding

      The Seward House located at the entranceway of Turkey Brook Park in Budd Lake is one of 27 historic sites recently approved for preservation funding by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners.

      The historic property was approved to receive a Construction Grant in the amount of $178,640. Mt. Olive Twp. Had applied for Partial Exterior Restoration for the 1800-year-old site with an 1860 addition.

      The Seward House currently sits on 270 acres of park land and is unoccupied, according to a description of the property on the county website.

      “The prominence of the Seward family in the area, and the size and Italianate design of the building makes it the most significant home built in Mt. Olive previous to the 1900's,” as stated on the site. The grant will provide for exterior restoration including restoration of masonry, stucco, windows, exterior doors.

      In early July, The Morris County Board of County Commissioners  approved $2.65 million in grants from the county’s Preservation Trust Fund to help restore, preserve and further protect 27 historic sites in Morris County.

      To date, Morris County has spent $43.3 million on preservation efforts at 117 historic locations since 2003, after voters overwhelmingly approved establishing a funding source for restoring and protecting historic properties.  The properties have benefited through 482 grants, with some properties receiving multiple grants over the years to conduct planning, acquisition and construction projects.

      “We cherish our quality of life in Morris County, and this is just one of the reasons why,” says Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw. “We take great pride in preserving our rich history, as we do our open spaces and our best-in-New Jersey park system. It’s also why we ranked again two weeks ago as one of the healthiest places in the nation to live.

      “But, for all of this, we really must thank our residents -- our taxpayers -- because they overwhelmingly approved the preservation trust fund that has made protecting our history, greenways and open spaces possible,” he adds.

      One grant for $159,374 will assist in the acquisition and preservation of the Morristown Post Office.

      The building has served as a U.S. Post Office since its construction in 1916 and represents Classical Revival architecture. It was designed by Oscar Wenderoth, an American architect who served as director of what was known as the federal Office of the Supervising Architect.  The office guided the construction of federal buildings in the late 19th Century and early part of the 20th Century.

      Several of Wenderoth’s projects are on the National Register of Historic Places. The Morristown Post Office currently is listed as “contributing” to the significance of a historic district listed in both the National Register of Historic Places and the New Jersey Register of Historic Places.

      Application Review Process

       The Review Board initially received 29 applications for consideration in 2021, amounting to $3.8 million in grant requests. They were initially reviewed for their conformance to the U.S. Secretary of Interior’s “Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties,” which promote historic preservation best practices.  Remote site visits also were conducted by the board via Webex conferencing and reviewing videos of each site.

       After a final presentation was made by the grant applicants, the Review Board deliberated on the funding recommendations.

      Morris County Dedicates New Historic Markers

      County Commission Approves Historic Site Funding

      County Commission Approves Historic Site Funding

      Morris County unveiled the first of eight new historic markers earlier this month Morristown with a small ceremony that included a host of Morris County officials, including members of the Morris County Heritage Commission and the Morris County Board of County Commissioners.

      “There are about 155 of these markers throughout the county and they recognize Morris County’s rich history and heritage going back to the Revolution, and I think it’s quite fitting that we are doing this right after our July 4th celebration,” said Stephen H. Shaw, director of the Morris County Board of Commissioners.

      “So much of our American Revolution history took place here in Morris County.”

      The new marker was installed at what is known as the Morris County “pocket park” on the corner of Washington Street and Schuyler Place.

      Lawrence Fast, vice president of the Morris County Heritage Commission, said the new markers, as with the historic markers previously installed at historic sites since the mid-1970s, recognize historic buildings, districts, notable people and important events that are part of Morris County’s history.

      “They highlight the county’s cultural and technological historic impacts as well,” Fast explained.

      The new markers are intentionally larger than those previously installed, he said, to allow for much more information to be included. They also are part of a celebration of the Heritage Commission’s 50th Anniversary, which was delayed by the pandemic.

      The marker unveiled today sites six historical facts about Morris County, and is among four new markers to be installed this year. Four others will be installed in 2022.


      County Commission Approves Historic Site Funding

      Stock Up On Skills At CCM

      “These markers will be placed along various county roads welcoming visitors from our neighboring counties,” Fast said.

      Morris County Commissioner John Krickus and Heritage Commission members Marty Kane, Joseph Macasek and Martha Wells joined the unveiling with county and heritage commissioner staff. 

      Also in attendance were Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling and Morris County Deputy County Clerk Anna McMahon.

      “I think it’s important to also note, we would have nothing to mark if not for our historic preservation program and, coincidentally, next week we’re going to be acting on a recommendation from our historic preservation folks for $2.65 million in grants to preserve 27 historic sites in 17 towns,” said Shaw. “That program has been supported by a lot of volunteers and, most importantly, the taxpayers of Morris County.”

      Morris County has approved 454 grants, amounting to more than $40.6 million, to assist in the preservation, protection and restoration of 113 historical properties since 2003, when preservation grants were first issued through the voter-approved Morris County Preservation Trust Fund.

      Historic site markers may be requested by municipalities, history organizations and other nonprofit groups. To learn more and to find maps, GPS coordinates, photos and descriptions of where markers already have been placed, go to the Historic Marker webpage of the Morris County Heritage Commission.
       

      Stock Up On Skills At CCM

      Local Artist Exhibits “Urania’s Mirror” at CCM

      Stock Up On Skills At CCM

      Looking to get a better job, get better in the job or grow a skillset? The Center for Workforce Development (WFD) at County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph has released its new schedule of classes for the Fall Semester. WFD is accepting new students for its fall classes and also invites companies looking for a professional partner to develop their employees.

      As labor demands continue to change and the demand for certification grows, WFD has continued its focus on industry recognized credentials. Its programs include MS Office, QuickBooks, Project Management, Data Analytics and Visualization, Custom Business Training, English Language Learning and more.

      A leader in apprenticeship opportunities, WFD has expanded its offerings to include Pharmacy Technician and Certified Nurse Aid apprenticeships, adding to its extensive selection of Career Pathway Healthcare programs. The Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center at CCM also has advanced manufacturing apprenticeships

      available this fall.

      To increase potential for a successful career, join WFD at one of its Virtual Open Houses, set to take place September 8, 9 and 10, from 7 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. WFD also plans to host “Focus on the Workforce,” a live, on-campus event on Saturday, September 18, from 9 a.m. to noon in the Davidson Conference Rooms in the Student Community Center. For more information and to register, go to www.ccm.edu/workforce/.
       

      Local Artist Exhibits “Urania’s Mirror” at CCM

      Local Artist Exhibits “Urania’s Mirror” at CCM

      Local Artist Exhibits “Urania’s Mirror” at CCM

      "Urania's Mirror," 2021, oil and collage on canvas, 9" x 12" by Joseph Losavio 


      Joseph Losavio, a contemporary, visionary painter, is exhibiting, ‘Urania’s Mirror’ at the County College of Morris (CCM) Art & Design Gallery in Randolph.

      The collection of 32 astronomical star chart cards incorporates illustrations based on Alexander Jamiesons’s “A Celestial Atlas,” also known as “a view of the Heavens.” Losavio’s works will be exhibited through September 23.                                     Losavio lives and works in Sussex County. He connects on a deep level with the environment and finds the earth to be “an extension of self, with its glorious diversity and mysterious inner force.” After teaching art in public schools for 27 years, he now pursues painting full-time, “exploring the realms of art, psychology and spirituality.”

      A reception is set for Thursday, September 9, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Admission to both the reception and gallery is free.

      For more information about the Art and Design programs offered at CCM, go to http://bit.ly/CCMArtandDesign/.
       

      CCM Fall Enrollment Taking Place

      Local Artist Exhibits “Urania’s Mirror” at CCM

      Local Artist Exhibits “Urania’s Mirror” at CCM

      County College of Morris (CCM) is Randolph is getting ready to welcome students back on campus this fall and encouraging individuals not to delay enrolling so they can get the best choice of classes.

      Enrollment is now taking place for the fall semester, which begins September 8.  Nationally ranked and affordable, CCM is offering classes on-campus and online, providing students with the flexibility to best fit college into their schedules. Students can search for courses on the days and at the times they prefer at  https://titansdirect.ccm.edu/Student/Courses/. Use the Advanced Search feature to select one of the terms being offered this fall:

      15 Week – September 8 – December 23

      Early Start 2 Week – September 8 – September 21

      Early Finish 7 Week – September 8 – October 26

      Mid Start 2 Week – September 22 – October 5

      13 Week – September 22 – December 23

      Late Start 2 Week – October 6 – October 19

      Late Start 7 – November 3 – December 23

      New students first need to apply to the college before registering for classes. Applications can be submitted at www.ccm.edu/admissions/. Continuing students should talk with their advisor before registering.

      An Affordable Education

      Each year, CCM awards millions of dollars in financial aid and scholarships to its students, allowing them to pursue a high-quality college education at an affordable price. Graduates of CCM realize a $14 to $1 ROI, making the college an invaluable investment for a successful future. Free funds also are available for qualified individuals to cover the total cost of tuition. To find out more, go to www.ccm.edu/admissions/financialaid/. 

      Transfer or Gain Employment Upon Graduation

      At CCM, students can choose from more than 100 programs of study. A number of degree programs, such as those in computer science, engineering, and hospitality and culinary science, are designed so students can seek employment immediately upon graduation. Numerous others are specifically designed so students can transfer their credits to earn a bachelor’s degree. CCM holds more than 125 agreements with colleges and universities across New Jersey and the nation to simplify the transfer process. A listing of those agreements can be found at https://tinyurl.com/ybpy9qqy/. In addition, the college offers numerous industry recognized certificates for rapid entry into the workforce for those looking for a rewarding career, looking to change careers or wishing to advance in their existing career.

      To learn more about the college’s return to campus plans, visit www.ccm.edu/covid-19-information-center/.
       

      Inner Alarm System

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


      We all have inner warning systems that we could use as an alarm. An alarm to notify us, we need to make a change, to dig deeper into what's going on in our lives, to stop and pause. Once we are aware of these alarms, we can use them as a way to be more mindful of how we are feeling and what action we need to take

      Mind-Body Connection - where do you hold stress, anxiety, anger, etc. on your body? Typical areas are: Shoulder/back, jaw, headaches or migraines and stomach. Everyone is different so be mindful of where you feel it. When you know where you hold it, it is a red flag going off saying you have too much stress, worry, etc. It is telling you to stop, take a pause to refuel and reboot. When we ignore these physical signs it can lead to burnout, anxiety and/or depression.

      Physical clutter is a red flag. When we have too much physical clutter, it means we also have emotional clutter. If we get rid of the physical clutter but don't deal with the emotional clutter, the physical clutter will come back. What does your surroundings say about your life?

      Are you constantly getting sick - catching every cold and flu that comes your way? It's a sign that your immune system isn't working the way it should. It's a sign that something else is going on. Check in with yourself. Are you under a lot of stress? Is it affecting your basic needs - not getting enough sleep? Water? Is your diet off?

      Mistakes/Failures - what do setbacks mean? Every mistake and/or failure is a teachable/learnable moment. What could you learn from the situation? What's the lesson? How could you change? Do things differently? 

      Envy - when you are envious of someone or someone's situation, it lets you know they have or are doing something you wish you were doing. It is letting you know what you want. Instead use envy as a motivator to go after your dreams and goals. 

      Fear - fear tells us what's important to us. What we value. We can use fear as a teacher. It lets us know that this is important to you and needs to be taken seriously. Put the extra effort and practice into it.

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

      Events around town

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