Mt. Olive Online Publication April 16, 2025

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Eagle Scout Plants Sensory Garden at Mtn. View School

By Cheryl Conway 


Students at the Mountain View Elementary School in Flanders will have a new place to relax, tune in to their senses and connect with nature at a new garden being planted there. 

Kenneth William McGovern of Frelinghuysen is constructing the Mountain View Elementary School Sensory Garden with Scout Troop 249 which is stationed in Budd Lake. A senior at Warren County Technical School, McGovern is working on the garden as his Eagle Scout Project.  

“The main purpose of this project is to provide a calm learning environment for the students, and give them an area to relax and enjoy nature,” explains McGovern. “It will also help bring up topics to learn about with the butterflies it will hopefully attract.” 

McGovern has been involved with the scouts since his youth. 

“I have been doing Scouts with my grandfather, who lives in Budd Lake, since I was a Tiger Cub, or around the age of 7,” shares McGovern. “My now eagle beneficiary thought of the idea for the project around mid-April. She is also the female Scoutmaster of the troop who works for the school. Before the project, the troop helped her with the creation of the outdoor classroom that my eagle project is next to.” 

McGovern started designing his project around late June and started working on it in early August. 

 



"I wish to be able to complete this project before the first frost of the year, because if I don’t, I won’t be able to plant anything until the last thaw,” he explains.  

The sensory garden project consists of two raised growth beds, one shaped like a kidney bean in the corner of the work area and the other shaped like a wide cone near the center of the work area. It is located next to the outdoor classroom and measures around the same size. Both beds will be constructed out of stone landscaping blocks that will be purchased from Lowes. There will be four layers of these blocks on each bed, totaling around 720 blocks. The corner bed has a planting area of about 65 sq. ft. while the center bed has a planting area of around 55 sq. ft. 

“The only materials I now need to get are the 720 wall blocks, a cubic yard or two of stone dust, 5 cubic yards of topsoil, and the various plants,” he explains.  

Some plants he is considering to create this natural relaxing area for students include lavender, mint, coneflowers, lambs ear, cinnamon fern, thornless prickly pear cactus, milkweed, hosta and Iris. 

McGovern plans to purchase these materials mainly from Lowes and various other shops and estimates that the cost of these materials will be around $4K. 

He is grateful for those who have donated their time and money to help him along the way.

"Currently my family, friends, and troop members have been helping me with my project,” he says. "I expect it to take roughly another 120 man-hours to complete. I have been scheduling days to work on the project and telling those who would want to help when those days occur.” 

Anyone who wishes to donate to McGovern’s Eagle Scout project, can do so at  

Fundraiser for Cristal Seifert by Kenneth McGovern : Mtn. View Sensory Gardens Eagle Scout Project (gofundme.com) 

Welcome readers to the 96th issue of Mt. Olive Online

Vigil Enlightens 100s to Missing Soldiers and Prisoners

By Cheryl Conway

“Comfort us now and our longing for the return of the prisoners of war and those missing in action,” prays Rev. Karen Gazzillo during the opening ceremony of the 2023 POW/MIA 24-hour Vigil. 

Held 4 p.m., Friday, Sept. 15 through Saturday, Sept. 16, at the All-Veterans Memorial in Budd Lake, more than 400 people attended or participated to honor prisoners of war and military men and women missing in action. This was the ninth year that the AVM has hosted this federally recognized day, observed on the third Friday in September.   

“We had a steady stream of visitors and participants throughout the event,” says AVM Founder Charlie Wood Uhrmann. “Many came at night to see the illumination of the monuments, the vigil flame and the Freedom Fountain which changed its colors from red, white and blue.” 

While she was pleased with the turnout, Uhrmann reminds others of the true meaning of the vigil.  

“The POW/MIA vigil is designed to be a respectful, solemn event that evokes meaningful reflection,” says Uhrmann. “I am extremely pleased to see the program grow each and every year and the participant’s expression of gratefulness to be a part of our program and commitment to next year’s program.” 

Since July 18, 1979, a congregational resolution was passed for a national vigil be held annually to recognize the 2,646 American soldiers still unaccounted for from the Vietnam War, explains CMSgt (retired) Robert S. Bedell, during his opening remarks at the AVM vigil. As of May 22, of this year, 1,578 Americans are still unaccounted for from the Vietnam War; 7,491 are unaccounted for from the Korean War; and 72,184 unaccounted for from WWII, he says. 

The purpose for the 24-hour vigil is to “honor soldiers who have served and have yet to be accounted for,” explains Bedell. 

Volunteers sign up for an allotted time to read the names of New Jersey men and women who are POW or MIA.   

“During this year’s vigil at the AVM, there were 2,578 POW/MIA warrior names, rank, service branch, date and location of last seen read during the vigil,” shares Uhrmann. “The POW/MIA Ascension Bell was rung 21 times on the hour at the hour, so a total of 504 times.” 

This year’s vigil was in honor and memory of 2nd Class Petty Officer William “Bill” Sohl, longtime Mt. Olive resident and civic leader, who died on August 19 at the age of 81. His wife of 51 years, Linda Sohl and her close friend Mt. Olive Historian Thea Dunkle lit the vigil flame.
Sohl was veteran of the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, honorably discharged in 1970. In Mt. Olive, he was a township business administrator from 2006 to 2012; councilmember from 1988 to 2000; co-chair of the Mt. Olive Memorial Day Parade since 1984; and an AVM committee-member since 2008.    

New this year, was The Guard Pipe & Drum performing the Opening Homely, and “To our surprise, we had a spectacular flyover from the N.J. State Police,” shares Uhrmann. 
Also joining us this year was the Centenary University Alumni Association, the Picatinny Military and Civilian Club, the Church of the Latter Day Saints, Health & Recreation Through Horses, the Professional Association of Therapeutic International Horsemanship, the Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Air Force Auxiliary and the U.S. Army Recruiting. 

Loyal participants included the MOHS Air Force JROTC, Morris County American Legion, Rolling Thunder National, Inc., AVM Board of Directors, Mt. Olive Police Department, American Legion Riders Post 342, The 2nd New Jersey Brigade (Civil War), American Legion Post 344, Rockaway Sons of the American Revolution, Pennjerdel House / Public History and American Legion Post 450.
“This year ASW Aura Dunn set the Missing Warrior Table with her father who served in the Vietnam War,” says Uhrmann. 

Bedell explained the symbolism of the Table Set For One: “Frail of one prisoner alone against the suppressor,” he recites. “The table is small,” as it represents those soldiers who are “unable to be with their loved ones.” 

The table is draped with a white cloth, which represents the “purity of their intentions to respond to their country’s call to arms.” 

A single red rose in a vase, tied with a yellow ribbon around its base, is set on the table as it “signifies blood they may have shed to sacrifice to ensure our liberties and freedom,” continued Bedell. 

A Bible is added as a “universal symbol of faith, forgiveness and eternal peace.” 

There is a slice of lemon on a plate to represent “bitter faith,” and salt to remind others “of countless fallen tears of families as they wait.” 

An inverted glass is there too “as they can’t toast with us at this time.”  

A candle rests on the table and “will burn for the next 24 hours as a beacon of hope that our beloved warriors have escaped their catchers and are on their way home to a beloved nation.” An American flag is placed on the table too that “reminds us that many of them may never return and have paid the supreme sacrifice to ensure liberty of freedom for all. 

“The chair is empty,” concludes Bedell. “Though they are not here in body, their presence will be felt in spirit. As we read each POW/MIA names with ties to New Jersey for the next 24 hours, let us remember and never forget their sacrifice.”  

The MOHS Air Force JROTC also participated in the vigil, prior to the event as volunteers, and during as they marched around the park. 

Uhrmann was pleased that “36 of the MOHS Air Force JROTC pulled 37 bags of weeds before I arrived to clean up the complex,” she says.  

According to Bedell, 70 cadets participated in the Bataan Death March this year, with 61 completing the 14-mile hike. A total of 857 laps were completed with 1.1 mile per lap totaling 942.7 miles. 

Cadets who complete the march receive a Bataan Death March Memorial Ribbon, in recognition of the April 9, 1942, U.S. surrender of the Bataan Peninsula on the main Philippine Island of Luzon to Japan, during WWII when close to 75K Filipino and American troops on Bataan were forced to march 65 miles to prison camps. Thousands perished due to intense heat and harsh treatment and this became known as the Bataan Death March.      

To end the AVM 24-hour vigil, a 21 Gun Salute was performed by the Seton Hall ROTC, adds Uhrmann. 

“Please guard and protect those in captivity,” says Gazzillo, circling back to her opening prayer. “Remove those obstacles. There’s no way we can thank you for the gift of freedom. We pray that they may come home soon.”   

Photo Gallery

    MOHS First Football Coach Celebrated With Scholarship

    By Cheryl Conway 

     

    The Mt. Olive Education Foundation has established a new scholarship in honor of Alfred Nicholas, the first head football coach at Mt. Olive High School in Flanders. 

    Nicholas died this past July, but family and friends gathered to honor and pay tribute to him on Sunday, Sept. 17, at MOHS, for the Coach Nicholas Memorial Service and Celebration of Life.  Hosted by the Nicholas family, more than 100 people — including his family from Ohio, friends and colleges from all over —attended from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., to speak about him and learn about the scholarship. 

    Nicholas was MOHS’s first football coach, when the school opened in 1972, and he ran the program through 1982. The school’s football field has since been named in his honor, shared Howie Weiss, president of the Ed Foundation.  

    Weiss introduced the scholarship which will be awarded to a student who most represents those characteristics of Coach Al Nicholas. He will be working with the Nicholas family, committee of friends and the MOHS Guidance Department to determine recipients of the scholarship.
    Multiple people also spoke about Nicholas’ life and accomplishments. The service was open to all at no cost. Contributions were collected for the scholarship.  

    “Significant money was raised to fund this new scholarship,” shares Weiss.  




    More on Nicholas 

    Alfred “Alf” E. Nicholas was born in Highland Park on June 30, 1935. He died July 10, 2023, at the age of 88. Alf attended Highland Park High School excelling in athletics playing football, basketball and baseball, graduating in 1953. He attended Rutgers University continuing his baseball career with the Scarlet Knights and attaining a B.S. degree in biology in 1957. Alf went on to attend the University of Pennsylvania and received a certificate in physical therapy and later a master’s in education from Rutgers University.  

    While in school Alf meet his beloved wife Dell on a blind date and were married on June 15, 1957. Together for 66 years, they had three children Wendy, Brett and Craig, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. After working as a physical therapist for a few years Alf decided to follow his passion and started his 30-year career as a teacher and coach. Starting at his alma mater Highland Park, he coached football, basketball and baseball then moved onto to head football coach at Middlesex High School 1964-71. Alf was then first head football coach at the new Mt. Olive High School from 1972-82 where the football field has since been named in his honor. He continued coaching at Vorhees, Phillipsburg Catholic and Ridge High Schools. Upon retiring from teaching Alf and Dell moved to Marietta, Ohio where Alf was an assistant coach at Marietta College while returning to work as a physical therapist.  

    Alf and Dell also owned and operated the Buckley House Bed and Breakfast for 16 years in and extensively traveled the world. Alf loved the outdoors as a young man enjoying fly fishing and camping with his family. He was a master gardener, raised bees and even made his own maple syrup from trees in his yard. 

    Contributions Accepted 

    There is no deadline to contribute to the Mt. Olive High School Coach Nicholas Memorial Scholarship. All contributors will receive a T-shirt made special for the event which says, “Mt. Olive Football; Coach Nicholas Style; Faith, Family, Friends, Football.” Donations via check should be payable to the MO Education Foundation and mailed to: Howie Weiss, 18 Woodsedge Ave., Budd Lake, N.J. 07828; or by Venmo to Howie Weiss.

    Photo Gallery

      Lalama Ready To Serve Fresh Ideas on MO Council

      By Cheryl Conway 

       

      When it comes to Mary Lalama of Budd Lake, it is always fresh.   

      From her hot-out of the oven bagels, to her community Thanksgiving meals, the Sponsor a Child During the Holidays Program and her newsy ideas and artistic design, Lalama plans to bring that same flavor as a candidate to Mt. Olive Township Council with some fresh ideas in mind.   

      As a Mt. Olive resident for the past 19 years, Lalama has decided to jump into the political arena as a first-time candidate for the town’s governing body. She is excited for the race and is ready to run.   

      “Last spring, I decided I would run for the open council seat,” explains Lalama, 61. “I feel I have a lot to offer as a business owner and a woman. I feel I could bring fresh ideas and will give me the ability to expand my charitable programs that could help residents.”   

      A Jersey girl born and raised, Lalama grew up in Paterson where she attended John F. Kennedy High School and then Montclair State College (now Montclair State University) where she majored in biology/chemistry.   

      She married her husband Joe Nicastro 19 years ago, and they moved to Flanders where they lived for 17 years before moving to Budd Lake two years ago. A council member for the past 11 years, Nicastro is currently the Mt. Olive Twp. council president and is running for mayor in the November 7 election.    

      “We came to Mt. Olive after we sold another newspaper business and had a 25 mile non-compete,” explains Lalama. “Joe had a friend, Joe Ouimet, living up here and we loved the area.”    

      As co-owner of their 25-year small business— Maljon LLC/ My Life Publications — Lalama and her husband publish nine monthly newspapers, print and online.   

      “I am a graphic artist,” she explains her role. “I do all the design and layout for the papers. We also recently purchased Hackettstown Bagel Shop in Hackettstown.”   

      They have five adult children combined: Three are Lalama’s and two are Nicastro’s; and five grandchildren with number six expected to arrive in November.    

      “I love everything about Mt. Olive,” says Lalama. “We have so much to offer residents from young to old. Our schools, our parks and our recreation department are tops in the state. Mt. Olive is a great place to raise a family.”  

      Her youngest child, Michael Lalama, was the only one of their kids to attend the Mt. Olive Schools and that opened some opportunities for Lalama to get involved.   

      “I was on the Home and School Associations (PTA); I served as an officer for three years when Michael was in high school, where I organized and ran many fundraisers, including our annual tricky trays. I was a member of the MO Band Association, where I helped with fundraising as well.”  

      She has been involved in the town too as she currently serves as chair of the Mt. Olive Municipal Alliance Committee; is a member of the 200 Club of Morris County; the Lions Club of Mt. Olive; and served on the Executive Board of the Mt. Olive Child Care and Learning Center.  

      Helping others has really been the heart of Lalama’s volunteer work.  



      About eight years ago, she and her family started the Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner for anyone who is in need or will be alone. Instead of hosting a family meal in their home, Lalama brought her family to the Mt. Olive Senior Center in Flanders every year to extend their family dinner to the community at large.   

      “During COVID we started delivering meals the Wednesday night before Thanksgiving,” she explains. “This past year we delivered over 120+ meals (with the help of many volunteers, including the Flanders Fire Department) and served 50+ people on Thanksgiving Day. We are planning to host the dinner and make deliveries again this year as well.”   

      Collecting presents for children during the holidays has also been her initiative, she began years ago.       

      “I started my own toy drive for Christmas,” she says. “Over the years it has evolved. I now work directly with the Mt. Olive Middle School counselors. They supply me with the wish lists of children in Mt. Olive. With the help of many generous residents and friends last year we provided more than 140 children with gifts for the holidays.”  

      Through her newspaper business, she has extended opportunities to students whether through internships or sharing her knowledge. She has worked with high school students “over the years helping them produce their own high school newspaper,” she explains.   

      As a former member of the Morris County Republican Committee and a current five-year member of the Mt. Olive Republican Club, Lalama decided to upgrade her political involvement by running for a council seat. She brings a multitude of skills that could benefit the governing body and township.

      “As a business owner I have experience with budgets, and working with many different people,” says Lalama. “I am good at strategic thinking and decision-making. I can make use of a range of sources when making decisions. I will listen to the views of my community. I am committed, have sound judgement and integrity. I stand by my word.”   

      She has no criticism for the current governing body and just hopes to be a team player to continue on its path.     

      “Our current council has done a great job with fiscal responsibility and effective spending, they stand by our first responders, transparency and open communication, being energy efficient and the use of shared services,” she says. “I will continue supporting the council and their efforts they have put into making Mt. Olive a great place to live.”   

      Issues that concern her the most are taxes, public safety and ensuring that all residents are represented.  

      Her platform is clear: “Focusing on the future of Mt. Olive.”  

      For those who ask why they should vote for Mary Lalama for Mt. Olive Township Council, keep this idea fresh in mind: “I am committed, have sound judgement and integrity. I stand by my word. I will work hard for every resident, regardless of political affiliation. I believe when we work together, we can accomplish much more.”   

      Race Continues for Longtime BOE Member

      By Cheryl Conway

       

      Leadership matters to Dr. Anthony Giordano, 16-year member of the Mt. Olive Board of Education, and with his proven track-record he decided to not relinquish his seat just yet.    

      “I was going to make this my last year, however, I felt the time was not right,” says Giordano of Budd Lake. “Our students, staff, and community deserve to have some consistency, institutional knowledge and experience to continue to move the district forward.” 

      Giordano last ran in 2022, and got elected to fill a one-year term. He is vying against seven other candidates for a three-year term in the Nov. 7 General Election.  

      Out of the eight BOE members, four are newer to the volunteer board along with a new school district superintendent.  

      “I decided to rerun for the BOE in June of this year,” says Giordano. His platform: “Leadership Matters!” 

      His main concerns center around the growth of the town and improved communication.  

      “Our town is growing and we are running out of space within our schools is one major issue,” says Giordano. “The second is all the misinformation that is put out on social media by "keyboard" cowboys who continue to spread inaccurate information.” 

      As a senior leader on the BOE, Giordano will work to overcome these issues and continue to move the district forward. He plans to do this by being “open and honest.  Principled in how I vote,” he says. 

      The referendum will be a big factor this year when residents will be able to vote in December on a spending package to improve facilities and expand the district. 

      “We need the referendum,” says Giordano. “Again, our community is growing and space in our schools is becoming less.  Passing this referendum will not add to the community’s tax burden.” 

      Experienced Educational Leader 

      A Mt. Olive resident since 2004, Giordano has served five three-year terms and a one-year term as an elected BOE member since 2007. During those 15 years, his fellow board members nominated him to serve as board president for seven years in a row. In 2017, he stepped down as president to work on his doctorate, but then in 2020 and 2021, he stepped back up to lead the BOE.   

      ”My leadership and institutional knowledge, as well as, my educational background are my greatest asset to the BOE,” says Giordano, who currently works as an assistant superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for the Berkely Heights Public School District. 

      Prior, he was superintendent of the Mansfield School District in Warren County for five years and has worked in education throughout his professional life.   

      Giordano has a bachelor’s degree in history from Rider University; a master’s in special education from New Jersey City University; a second master’s in educational leadership from Centenary University; and a doctorate in educational leadership also from Centenary University.   

      Throughout his career, he worked his way up in several school districts starting out as a paraprofessional for students with autism, a special education teacher, school counselor, supervisor, vice principal, principal, director, executive director, superintendent to his current role as an assistant superintendent at a larger school district.    

      “I love being an educator,” says Giordano. “It’s the greatest profession.”   

      During his time on the BOE, he has seen vast change and growth in the township.   

      His two children, Jake, 20, graduated from Mt. Olive High School in 2020; and his daughter, Aubrey, in 2022. While they have completed their time at the Mt. Olive Schools, Giordano’s work is not done as he hopes to continue to give back as an elected volunteer on the BOE to help move the district along. 

      Through his leadership, experience and knowledge he has been instrumental in helping to implement those changes and watch the school district thrive.  

      “I have proven myself over a 17-year period to want what is best for our students, staff, and community,” says Giordano. “My record speaks for itself.”  

      Flying J Ends Six Month Hike On High Note

      By Cheryl Conway

       

      Spectacular sights, beautiful sunrises, new friendships, a feeling of accomplishment, first-hand knowledge about challenging hikes, a shirt and a stone are her souvenirs from her six-long month journey hiking the Appalachian Trail.  

      “You can’t really accumulate any souvenirs on trail because you don’t want to carry anything extra!” explains Jennifer Tull of Budd Lake. From February 24 through August 14, Tull hiked the entire 2,198.4 mile-long Appalachian Trail, 

      from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mt. Katahdin in Maine. 

      The only item she kept was a small stone.  

      “Soup Cup picked up a small stone one day because he looked down and immediately saw a J in it,” explains Tull. “Since my trail name is Flying J he picked it up for me and carried it for me until we reached New Jersey. I still have it. I also had a T-shirt given to us by a church in Duncannon, Pa. that fed us dinner. I had friends join me there to hike with me for a day, so I gave them the shirt to take home for me.”  

      Tull explains that “everyone on trail gets a trail name usually based on something that happened on trail. Real names are rarely used on trail. Most people only know each other’s trail names. I didn’t even know Soup Cup’s real name [Chuck] until I had known him for a few months! Soup Cup was my age from Idaho and Chillin’ [Dara] was in her late 40’s from Texas. We hiked together off and on in the south but by Northern Virginia we had really bonded and never separated again. They became my “tramily” or trail family. We didn’t always hike right together but we always ended up at the same place each night.” Both are from the Smoky Mountains. 

      Tull had gotten her name when she hiked the Long Trail in Vermont in 2022 to prepare for the Appalachian Trail. 

      “I was given it because of how fast I ran or flew over Mt. Mansfield,” she explains. “I’m not typically a fast hiker but it was real bad weather, and 50 mph wind gusts and I was just trying to get over and then down off the mountain as quickly as possible.” A couple she befriended during that hike started calling her Flying Jenny, which she later shortened to Flying J. 

      A dream of hers since she was 12 years old, Tull can now cross the accomplishment off her bucket list. 

      “I was very proud of the accomplishment,” says Tull. “I thought I would enjoy the nature and trail most of all, but it really ended up being the people. Everyone is so nice and supportive. The AT community is really amazing and thru hikers really bond on trail. I think that is because of the shared difficulty.” 

      Just like her climb, there were some highs and lows of her trip. 

      “Some of the most memorable highlights from the trail were beautiful sunrises during the winter months,” says Tull who turned 60 during her adventure. “I would often hike out in the dark in the morning, and since there were no leaves on the trees, I could see the sun rising as I walked. Mornings were my favorite times and when I was most happy and at peace hiking the trail. Other memorable times were reaching the halfway point in Pennsylvania, when my family met me at the Delaware Water Gap, the beautiful White Mountains of NH, and just goofing and laughing with my tramily while we hiked to make the miles go by faster.” 

      While she trained to prepare for this trip, Tull did not expect it to be as challenging as it was. 

      “The trip was far more difficult than I ever could have imagined,” she admits. “I had heard many hikers say it will be ‘harder than you can imagine.’ This was definitely true. I knew it would be hard and I’m an avid hiker, so I understood this but it’s hard to explain to someone how difficult it is to do something so strenuous day after day.  

      “The elevation was the most challenging part,” she shares. “Thru hiking the AT is equivalent to hiking Mt. Everest 16 times and it definitely feels like it. Going up the mountains was difficult from a cardio perspective but descending the mountains became very painful since I suffered from knee tendinitis throughout the hike. We also encountered some very cold days in March. There were a few days when the high temperature only reached 30 and the lows were in the single digits and lower with wind chill. I was warm enough to hike and warm in my sleeping bag at night, but it was all the in between times that was difficult.” 

      Getting those three meals in a day was also a task. 

      “Making dinner or stopping for snack or a lunch was all difficult,” she says. “Our water and food would freeze also that was a continuous battle to keep those things warm.” 

      All in all, Tull is much wiser as an experienced hiker. She learned that the fewer possessions a hiker brings, the better off they will be.     

      “On the trail you have to narrow down everything to only what you absolutely need because your pack weight is one of the single most important factors to your success,” she says. “The lighter the pack, the less chance of injury and the more comfortable you will be.” 

      The pictures she took along the way and “spectacular sights” fresh in her mind is her other takeaway —"Beautiful mountain ranges, stunning wild flowers, winter turning to spring and then turning to summer.  Trees were some of the most interesting sights on trail and obviously there were many! They really are incredible to see how they wrap around rocks and each other and reroot and grow in the craziest ways.” 

      The number of hours they hiked everyday varied but on average they were getting in 10-12 hours a day.  

      “We woke at 5 and hiked out at 6,” she says. “That was a daily ritual and that rarely changed. We usually reached our destination between 4 and 6.” Tull would post one-minute videos on social media and had about 50 followers for family and friends to peak into her adventure.  

      She offers some advice to those who plan to hike the AT: “Hike as much as you can every week with a lot of elevation to get your body in shape. Do as many multi-day backpack trips before leaving so you can try out your gear and get it dialed in to only what you need. Invest in good, light gear to keep your total pack weight down as much as possible.”  

      For her next trip, Tull hopes to hike the Arizona trail which is 800 miles long and El Camino Santiago which is 500 miles. I’m going to keep my trip under 1,000 miles from now on!” she laughs.  

       

      A Gallery of Unforgettable Images From AT Hike

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        Local & County News

        Longtime BOE Leader Shares Wisdom & Advice

        By Cheryl Conway  


        After 14 years serving as an elected member of the Mt. Olive Twp. School District Board of Education,  Liz Ouimet has a lot more to say than “goodbye” and “thank-you.” 

        She was the last BOE member to speak at the August 28 BOE meeting, intentionally, as she prepared an emotional, well-thought-out farewell letter. An elected BOE member since 2009, Quimet was involved in a lot of decisions on the board and it one of the champions for growth and change. 

        Budd Lake residents since 1995, she and her family are moving out of state after living in Mt. Olive for the past 28 years. Last elected in 2021 to a three-year term to the BOE that expires in 2024, the BOE is in the process of filling her vacant seat to finish out her remaining year. 

        The district will be accepting applications for the vacant position through Friday, September 29. The BOE will interview applicants at the October 9 board meeting with the expectation that an appointment will be made that evening. The newly appointed board member’s term will expire on Dec. 31, 2024. 

        Farewell Letter 

        “Thank you Antoine for allowing me to go last tonight as it will be my last board meeting as I am tendering my resignation,” Ouimet recites.  

        “I wanted to impart some words.  

        Confidential misogyny  

        For new board members. Remember it’s not about you, your agenda, your kids, your friends’ kids but what is best for all students. Don’t be looking for special favors because “you’re a board member.” Don’t be like a past board member who was always looking for special favors for their kids or their kids’ friends while they now still continue to trash the board with his sour grapes attitude because of not getting elected twice by the voters and another time by his peers. And ethics matters. You know why I say that. Those keyboard warriors are always so brave behind their screens. To all people: Look into the truth before commenting. Don’t listen to someone who pretends to know everything and knows nothing except his own agenda which is not for anyone but his narcissistic self. We should have HIBs harassment intimidation and bullying for these keyboard warriors because they don’t realize the harm and hurtfulness, they cause people’s families. Yes, we are elected officials, but our families should not be hurt by this. Thank you, Betty Hahn, for always pointing out the truth and supporting the board. Don’t listen to someone who says the truth shall set you free while spewing hate and lies. Who CLAIMS they advocate for the students when they actually want to stand on their soapbox because of their own narcissism. Ask the board how much money was spent on their frivolous claims and lawsuits. There was $10,000 alone for his frivolous ethics case that was dismissed. Don’t be a board member who follows the edict of one who wants to be elected because they go by the adage of groups who say they should be someone who thinks like me. You don’t want people who think like me, but you should be the person who cares about all the students. Be a board member to advocate for ALL students. To provide the best education for all.  

        Thank you to past board members who were great mentors to me: Marc Warner and especially Bill Robinson. Bill, who’s guidance friendship and knowledge was always so precious to me. Other board members: Tony whose calm guidance was always such comfort and encouragement to me. Louisa, who I have come to know recently, you have already made great strides to be a model board member. Anthony, we may not always have agreed on things, but we always tried to do the best for the students. Chris, remember your time on the board as one where you always tried to do the best you could for our students. Sometimes sacrificing time with your family. Jen, thank you for your wit resolve and vision that will propel you to continue to do great things on this board as well as your friendship. Lynn, thank you for all you have done for this district as well as your guidance and friendship. Thank you to Dr. Reynolds whose guidance and direction propelled Mt. Olive to be the great district we became and will continue to be. Dr Bangia, thank you for leading us on through everything. Remember we are Mt. Olive. We lead we DO NOT follow. Kevin Stansberry. You are Mr. Mt. Olive. Mt. Olive is fortunate for educators such as yourself and all you have done to make this a great district. That greatness would not have been possible without the stellar teachers, administrators, paraprofessionals, support staff, bus drivers, custodians, cafeteria personnel, central office and all staff. I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. You were responsible for me being able to say I’m proud to live in Mt. Olive. Students, past, present and future, thank you for all your hard work and effort. As you have and will continue to see how it enhances your lives because of the great education you received in Mt. Olive. Antoine, what can I say. It has been an honor to know you as well as serve on this board with you. You were always my sounding board as we have weathered some wild storms. Your intelligence, calm resolve, and leadership to this board is invaluable to this district. Most of all thank you for your friendship which I hold as priceless in my heart.  

        Lastly, I want to thank my family, husband Joe, daughters Nicole Michelle, Sara Alyssa, son in laws Mikel Jeff and Chris. Thanks for allowing me to serve on this great board and taking away so much time from you. People don’t realize the sacrifices we make as board members and volunteers. and how it affects our families. Thanks for supporting me, I love you all. 

        In ending, one of my sons-in-law would always mimic me because I always said to my youngest Alyssa as she was growing up, lead by example and I hope I have always tried to do the same by doing my best for this district and especially the students of Mt. Olive. 

        “I always said I don't have four children but close to 5,000. Thank you.” 

        Several school leaders commented on Ouimet’s departure and wish her well.  

        Dr. Anthony Giordano says, “I have had the pleasure to serve on the Mt. Olive BOE with Ms. Ouimet for 15 years. It was no coincidence that Mt. Olive saw its greatest growth and transformation during the time Liz served on the BOE.   Liz's decisions have always been in the best interests for our students!  Her background in the science field allowed her to focus and help the district grow in developing our STEAM programs, as well as, opening doors/opportunities for female students in the Science Field!  Although Liz and I did not always agree on every issue, I respected her and her opinions.  She will be missed!” 

        Adds BOE member Jen Aquino, “Liz has dedicated her time and energy to our school district for many years. Her contributions, ideas and enthusiasm toward making our district the best it can be was boundless. She has been a mentor and friend and I wish her all the best in her next chapter.”  

        MOSD Superintendent of Schools says, “Mrs. Liz Ouimet was a long-standing member of the Mt. Olive School Board. Her unwavering service in shaping our educational community is greatly appreciated.” 

        Concludes BOE President Dr.  Antoine Gayles: “I have worked alongside Mrs. Ouimet for the nine years I have been a board member.   During our time together on the board, Mrs. Ouimet was a mentor and friend, who modeled exemplary leadership.  I have observed first-hand Mrs. Ouimet's passion for public service and her commitment to create a board environment that was inclusive of different viewpoints, and supportive of the administration and our students.  She tirelessly attended many school events and even served as a judge during robotics competitions. As a visionary, Mrs. Ouimet championed the implementation of technological innovation in our schools.  Thanks in part to her advocacy, Mt. Olive students engage in hands-on, minds-on experiential learning via school and district science fairs, Real World Connections at NJIT and MOHS students have access to dual enrollment opportunities at local colleges. 

        “She is a calm voice of reason, a cheerleader for student success and a consummate leader,” adds Gayles. “I am thankful to have been a partner with her in service to the Mt. Olive community.” 

        BOE and Ed Foundation Tackle Scoreboard Issues

        By Cheryl Conway  


        For those keeping score of the status of the Mt. Olive High School Scoreboard, the project is still in the works although the players are trying to work as teammates rather than opponents. 

        The Mt. Olive Education Foundation has a signed contract since the summer of 2021 with the Mt. Olive Board of Education to raise funds to finance the scoreboard that has been purchased by the Mt. Olive School District. This contract, however, has been under scrutiny by some BOE and community members. 

        At the August 28 BOE meeting, BOE President Dr. Antoine Gayles asked the board to consider ending the scoreboard partnership with the Ed Foundation as no monies have yet to be presented to the BOE as projected. 

        “I wanted to find out if the board wanted to vote on a motion to cease and desist with the contract that we have with the Ed Foundation and if so, would someone want to make a motion,” says Gayles.  

        “In addition to having no funding for the scoreboard, there's not been one 

        fundraiser, one tricky tray, one 50/ 50,” he says. “There's been nothing to support the students according to the expectations of the Ed Foundation. 

        The issue with the scoreboard is something that many of us said from the beginning- we were going to be stuck with the cost of the scoreboard at the end of the day and here we are and so since we're stuck with the cost of the scoreboard why do we want  to hang on to an agreement and a partnership that's not producing 

        as they said they would for whatever reason because of the issues we were dealing with last year because whatever the reason is, there's always a reason why the Ed Foundation can't do what it says it was going to do so if the board wants to continue to hang on to this partnership it's the board's decision. I'm simply asking does anyone want to make a motion to rescind participation in the contract?” 

        In his defense, Ed Foundation President Howie Weiss attended the last BOE meeting on Sept. 18, and explained what has transpired. 

        Weiss and the Ed Foundation had acquired private donations through several premium sponsors to cover the cost of the local school district’s new 28x50 foot $300K state of the art single screen LED digital scoreboard by Daktronics. Each sponsor is committed to donate $50,000 over the next five years. 

        The project and the Ed Foundation was supported by the previous MOSD Superintendent Dr. Robert Zywicki, and when relations turned sour, Weiss claims that a private investigator was hired by the BOE to determine if these sponsors were legit. 

        “I had three donors who were so annoyed, they pulled out,” says Weiss during a telephone interview with Mt. Olive Online. 

        The sponsors were also questioning the logistics as to how their advertisements were going to be displayed on the scoreboard. 

        “How was I going to take an Ad and put it up on the scoreboard?” asks Weiss. “The BOE was supposed to hire a faculty member, they were going to pay them, and plan a curriculum. How do I go to any vendor and ask for $10K and they don’t know how to do it? How am I supposed to collect money from anybody if I can’t put their message on the board? I will pick up a check the second you make it happen.” 

        Weiss says the MOHS administration “failed to communicate with Daktronics and me” about the logistics.   

        “The failure is on the BOE,” says Weiss. "I inherited this giant scoreboard and no one knows how to use it. Number one, there are no funds to hire a faculty member. They’re trying to make it look like the Ed Foundation failed. 

        “We sprinted at a time we should’ve been crawling,” continues Weiss. “There’s a lot of potential, but no one knows how to use it. The BOE needs to hire a faculty member to figure out how to run the scoreboard. It’s a failure on the BOE to not hire administrative support to make it happen.  

        “I didn’t breech any contract,” continues Weiss. “I’m supposed to give a financial summary at the end of August every year. No money has been collected. How do I take their money? I’m left holding the bag. Obstacle after obstacle, complete failure upon failure by the administration and Board of Education. Every one of them failed!”    

        In his last remarks at the Sept. 18 BOE meeting, Weiss says, “we are dedicated to continue to raise funds to pay for this scoreboard. We have proven that we have great ability to raise money, so you need to stop with the obstacles, work with us and stop your negative campaign because I've had enough.” 

        The Mt. Olive Education Foundation is a local IRS approved charity organization whose mission is to support the school district via student scholarships, teacher professional development, and student academic programs.   

        According to Weiss, the Ed Foundation has raised $30K during the past three years, with $7K last year alone, with all monies given to support students. 

        “We’ve been raising money and giving it back to the kids,” says Weiss. 

        In response to Weiss’ comments, Gayles and MOSD Superintendent Dr. Sumit Bangia issued this statement: 

        “The Mt. Olive Township Board of Education looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Mt. Olive Educational Foundation this year and in the years to come.  We are optimistic that the Foundation will honor its commitment to the board to generate sponsorships and revenue for the scoreboard so the board can recoup its cost.  Of course, the board will not be relying exclusively on the foundation to do so and the administration plans to meet in the coming weeks to discuss how we can maximize the scoreboard’s revenue and other potential uses.”  

        After the last BOE meeting, board members met in closed session to discuss its next course of action pertaining to the scoreboard. Some BOE members support the continued contract with the Ed Foundation, and others would like to cancel the contract.  

        BOE member Anthony Strillacci says, “The best thing to do, because it still is a great advantage to us, is to get this going. I believe in getting together with people and I think this board should get together with the board of the Education Foundation and sit down and find out how we can improve and go forward because there's a tremendous possibility there on this scoreboard. We don't want to throw it away, but I'm so tired of everybody blaming everyone else we just don't get any place that way. We have to work together folks. We're all here for the same thing so let's get together with the Education Foundation and say okay where are we going from here?” 

        Dr. Anothony Giordano agrees with Strillacci, and says “Right now it's our scoreboard. It's the board of Ed's scoreboard, so we need to make sure we have people that are able to work it and run it. The curriculum component will come after.  I just think you keep the contract in place, stick to Dr Bangia’s plan and we go forward from there, and when it comes time, whether that's three, four, five months, then we sit down with that foundation and Daktronics and start doing that marketing plan and then say this is what we have done and let the Ed Foundation then go back so that people say they have it all set up now. I agree with you, it's time to move forward.” 

        Gayles says, “It would be great to have a relationship with an Ed Foundation that's not confrontational. It's its own entity in and of itself designed to raise money, not be confrontational with the entity it's supposed to support. We're just asking questions because we read in the paper that there's money. That's what I read, you all read the same thing so if we're gonna move forward then it's going to require tremendous effort on the part of the Ed Foundation to work to amend the relationship.” 

        BOE Member Christopher Zeier is not on board with the project. He claims that the district never investigated the vendors.  

        “We're supposed to be talking about a partnership for two years the only thing we've gotten is I'm not providing, I'm not providing, yet in the papers we read about hundreds of thousands of dollars donated,” says Zeier.  

        “I would say at this point in time is not that it's the breach of contract,” says Zeier. “I firmly believe that there is an ineffectiveness of an organization after two years not being able to raise a dime. Why would we not talk in December of 2021 um 2022 ‘I can't get this going; what are we doing, what you need to help us out here?’ It is supposed to be a partnership. 

        “I do believe in the Ed Foundation,” continues Zeier. “I believe they should fully keep going with scholarships but I feel as an organization they are not providing the taxpayer or relieving the taxpayer for what I consider poor decision. I will tell you right now, I voted for it. I cannot apologize more, and you asked me why I voted for it. The truth of the matter is I believed in a man and I believed in what he said and what I was told was not true okay. I apologize, couldn't apologize more. It’s one of the things that as a board member I feel so bad about that's one of the reasons I'm not running again because I do feel like I failed this community. But we need to move forward and we need to move forward with effectiveness and I believe from the conversations we're having right here this relationship is extremely strained and is best to look at new avenues.” 

        Mt. Olive School District to Hold Bond Referendum     

         

        The Mt. Olive Township School District Board of Education will ask the community to vote on an anticipated December 12 bond referendum as a fiscally responsible strategy to fund infrastructure and facilities improvements and upgrades.  

        Professional consultants worked with the board of education and community members to determine improvements to district facilities key to maintaining Mt. Olive’s high standards. That list of proposed improvements has been submitted to the New Jersey Department of Education (DOE) for review, approval of the proposed projects and to determine a specific type of state aid.   

        The proposed projects must be approved by the DOE, before the board can finalize the ballot question and vote date. A voter-approved bond referendum is the only way to secure that specific type of state aid to fund a portion of the project costs.  

        “An investment in our school facilities would support the strong academic environment we have worked with the community to create for our students,” said MOSD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sumit Bangia. “When the state's review is complete, we will share further details about the proposed projects, state aid and tax impact with the community including via the recently launched referendum website, motsd.org/referendum, a video, public forums, local media, social media and community meetings.  

        The Board of Education is focused on necessities like the health, safety and modern instructional needs of Mount Olive students, their families and staff. The proposed project list submitted to the state for review includes:  

        Upgrades to infrastructure across the district – such as HVAC systems and roofing; renovations to key spaces that expand opportunities for students;   

        additions to support growing enrollment; and expansions and modernization of outdated athletic and transportation facilities.   

        “When we invest in our schools, we invest in our whole community – people move to our community for the great schools,” said BOE Member Tony Strillacci. “The bond referendum would ensure we provide our current and future students and residents with facilities and programs that continue Mt. Olive’s tradition of excellence.”  

        The Mount Olive community is encouraged to visit the district’s newly launched website motsd.org/referendum often to learn more about the projects, voting information including voter registration, mail in ballots and polling locations and to vote in the referendum anticipated for December 12.   

        Morris County Career Training Center is Breaking Ground  

          

        The Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) was set to hold a groundbreaking ceremony at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, September 27 for its new Career Training Center at the County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph, which will expand the vocational school operations by 30 percent. 

        The new center has the potential of adding 500 students to the school district, exposing career-focused and college-bound high school students to the type of specialized skills that will lead them to successful futures. 

        “This new initiative allows students to pursue career training while gaining an industry-valued credential and college credits simultaneously,” said Scott Moffitt, Superintendent of the Morris County Vocational School District. “It puts students on a path to be career and college ready, while completing high school graduation requirements in their local district.  

        “Building upon successful programs already operating as a result of the long-standing partnership between CCM and MCVSD, high school students will now have more access to a variety of high-demand program offerings in areas such as artificial intelligence, mechatronics, renewable energy technology, certified nurse assistant and dental assistant to capture a wide range of interests and passion," Moffitt added. 

        MCVSD released a list of the following in-demand technical skill programs that will be included at the Career Training Center: Medical coding & billing, certified medical assistant, dental assistant, emergency medical technician/pre-paramedic, artificial intelligence, networking administration, mechatronics/robotics/automation, renewable energy technology – Wind & Solar, entrepreneurship/small business management, supply chain management. 

        The construction schedule is dependent on weather and constituency in the supply chain of materials. The two-story, 45,940 square-foot Center will cost $24.8 million, with $6.2 million coming from the county and $18.6 million from state under Securing Our Children’s Future (SOCF) Bond Act. Details on the project were presented to the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, as the board introduced a bond ordinance to support construction at their January 26, 2022 public meeting. 

        It will be built next to the Advanced Manufacturing Center at CCM, which also has plans for a new Entrepreneurship and Culinary Science Center on campus. A groundbreaking ceremony for this project is scheduled for November 2023. 

        Both projects build on strong partnerships established with business and industry as well as existing programs designed to prepare high school students, college students and adults for rewarding careers in high demand industries. 

        The MCVSD expansion will operate on a share-time model for high school juniors and seniors. It will focus on workforce development and offer students industry credentials, work-based and project-based learning opportunities and up to 18 college credits. The project expands on an existing partnership MCVSD has with CCM to provide high school students the opportunity to earn college credits, industry-valued credentials and access to an associate degree, either upon completion of high school or one year after graduation. 

        Morris County Presents Updated Courthouse Exterior Design       

         

        The Morris County Board of County Commissioners recently reviewed and decided to move forward with an updated exterior design proposal for a new courthouse slated for a county-owned parcel on Schuyler Place in Morristown. 

        The design was presented by AECOM, the architects contracted for the project, following a June 14 commissioner work session meeting at which some commissioners suggested changes to the existing design.  Roger Lichtman, Lisa Tsang and Francis Cooke of the Clifton-based AECOM presented the updated design proposal tonight after it was reviewed and cleared by a three-member Courthouse Committee of the Board of Commissioners. 

        “This final design is the result collaboration and input from all the stakeholders on this project,” said Commissioner Stephen Shaw, Chairman of the Courthouse Committee. “We value AECOM’s approach in working with the county to ensure we landed on an exterior design that is timeless in terms of function and aesthetics.”  

        Commissioners Deborah Smith and Douglas Cabana also serve on the committee. 

        Among those who attended the meeting tonight were Sheriff James Gannon, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Superior Court Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz of the Morris/Sussex Court Vicinage, Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty and Morristown Business Administrator Jillian Barrick. 

        The design involves an approximately 119,000-square-foot project offering eight new courtrooms, a jury assembly room, meeting rooms, security areas and a secured, three-story glass entrance foyer. 

        The overall project, pared down from one originally presented prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, will meet the modern safety, security and space needs required to properly support the county’s criminal Superior Court operations. The new building will include eight floors constructed on a county parking lot next to the existing Morris County Administration & Records Building. 

        PROJECT BACKGROUND 

        Providing adequate court facilities and securing those facilities are the sole responsibility of each respective county in New Jersey. To assess those needs, the county commissioned a Space Needs and Facilities Assessment in 2017. 

        That assessment, completed in 2018, identified a significant shortfall in criminal, family and civil court facilities, and detailed the outdated conditions in the existing courthouse complex, which includes the historic courthouse along Washington Street that was originally constructed in 1827. 

        That building was augmented three times before 1900, according to Judge Minkowitz, noting other portions were added in the 1950s and 1970s. The complex, situated along Washington Street between Court Street and Western Avenue, will be preserved, but is not suitable to continue most court operations. 

        The County Commissioners, then known as Freeholders, held public hearings prior to their unanimous vote to adopt two capital ordinances in late 2018 to fund the design phases of a new courthouse along Schuyler Place. Balancing the needs of the court system with the financial concerns of county taxpayers has continued throughout the process and involved the county government administration, Commissions, members of the judiciary and the Sheriff’s Office. 

        September is Healthy Aging Month

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

         

        September is healthy aging month. No matter what age you are currently it's never too early or late to take care of your health. 

        Age is a funny thing. When we're young, we can't wait to get older and be adults. When we are adults, we fear getting older. The one thing we know for sure is that we can't change our age but instead of resisting or fighting our age and adding stress to our life, we can decide to embrace it. The truth is we create feelings about our age. Whatever your age is, accept it, embrace it. You get to define how you want it to look and feel like.  

        Embracing your Age 

        Be proud of your age. Be proud of all the years you went through, all the experiences and memories you collected, all the lessons you learned and how strong you have become.  

        Be the best you can be today. Don't compare yourself to others, instead compare yourself to where you were at this time last year. Remember with age comes wisdom, confidence and the willingness to take risks. 

        Know the truth about age- we are our happiest the older we get. When we hit 60, we are hitting our highest levels of happiness with more happiness ahead. Don't assume your best years are behind you! 

        Be healthy means being active, looking at food and exercise as medicine, reducing your stress, drinking plenty of water and getting a good night's rest. Make sure your basic needs are met. 

        Change your expectations of your age- we live much longer than ever before so middle age is not old and is not the decline of our life. What do you expect from your age? What dreams do you want to accomplish? Start setting up your bucket list for each age range to make sure you’re doing what you love and dream about. This keeps you moving forward. Action keeps us hopeful and happy. Acting your age is purely based on your assumptions and expectations of that age. Change your perspective of your age and your life shifts. 

        Take risks - don't live in fear or expectations due to age instead take risks, be creative, add variety into your life. Ask yourself: How can I challenge myself today? Everyday step outside of your comfort zone. 

        Spending time in our past - when we spend time listening to music, watching movies, reading books, etc. from our youth makes us feel happier and healthier. So, blast music from your past and enjoy! 

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

        College News

        Centenary To Offer First NJ NCAA Equestrian Team For Women Riders

        Centenary University’s Morgan Munz. Photo by Giana Terranova Photography 


        Centenary University in Hackettstown will introduce a National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) Division III equestrian team beginning in the 2024-25 academic year.  

        The university will be the first in New Jersey to field an NCEA team, the highest level of competition offered for women riders through the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The new team will complement the university’s existing co-ed Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) team. 

        “This is exciting news for Centenary University’s equestrian program,” said Dr. Dale Caldwell, president of the University. “The success of the equestrian program is one of our highest priorities. We want students to excel, both in the classroom and in competition.” 

        NCEA competition is growing at the DIII level, making it an attractive option for smaller schools like Centenary, explained Michael Dowling, assistant professor of equine studies, who will coach Centenary’s new team with Heather Clark, assistant professor of equine studies. 

        “This positions Centenary to recruit a higher level of rider and enhance our existing program,” explained Dowling, who together with Clark also coaches Centenary’s IHSA team. “Parents understand NCAA sports and want that for their children. The top riders are all going to NCEA schools, yet we have academic opportunities not offered at larger DI and DII schools. In fact, Centenary will be the only NCEA school offering a degree program in equine studies.” 

        One of the top college equine programs in the country, Centenary has produced countless leaders in the sport, as well as numerous nationally ranked riders. The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Equine Science and in Equine Studies with concentrations in equestrian media and public relations, equine assisted services, equine business management, and equine training and instruction. Centenary students may also choose the Bachelor of Science in Animal Health (Pre-Veterinary Track), whose graduates have achieved an impressive track record for gaining acceptance to selective veterinary schools. 

        Kelly Munz, who chairs the Equine Department, explained, “Larger DI and DII schools offer a host of academic programs, but few if any offer an equestrian education like ours. At Centenary, we also offer many academic programs—which include a strong equine and animal health academic curriculum—but because we are small, we can provide a strong hands-on approach. Students who want a small school with lots of experiential learning opportunities, but also want to compete competitively on a collegiate riding team, should consider Centenary.” 

        A key to Centenary’s decision was the NCEA’s announcement several years ago that it would offer a single discipline championship, which supports teams with only a jumping seat emphasis. Centenary plans to compete in single discipline jumping seat and will spend the current academic year recruiting student-athletes for the 2024-25 season. While Dowling and Clark don’t plan on the team competing this year, Centenary has already been invited to participate in several scrimmages next spring.  

        Dowling said, “Centenary is very well respected in the IHSA world, so we want to build on that reputation. This year will be our planning year, familiarizing ourselves with all the intricacies of the NCEA and recruiting our team. Our plan is to start out strong and be a contender in our first season.” 

        Munz agreed: “We are at the top of our game with our IHSA team—Centenary is one of the strongest teams in the country. With the addition of this NCEA team, we will be looking to recruit top riders, while maintaining our strong IHSA team, which provides a place for all levels of riders, from beginners to advanced. The addition of an NCEA team will enhance Centenary’s reputation nationally.” 

        Golf To Support CCM Students

        Enjoy a day out on one of the area’s premier golf courses with the County College of Morris (CCM) Foundation and help support students in fulfilling their dreams for a rewarding and satisfying life.   

        This year’s Annual CCM Foundation Golf Classic is set for Monday, October 16, at the Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park and includes a BBQ lunch, a full day of golf, an open bar cocktail reception and a buffet dinner. The cost is $375 per player; the cost to attend only the cocktail reception, dinner and program is $150. Raffle prizes will be available for purchase throughout the day and given out during the evening program. All participating golfers will receive a special Golfer Gift as a thank you for supporting CCM students. The outing raises funds for the college’s scholarship programs and this year focuses on supporting student-athletes and the college’s athletic programs.    

        The day begins with registration at 11 a.m. followed by lunch and a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. The cocktail reception, followed by dinner and the awards program, starts at 5 p.m. Corporate foursomes, sponsorships and individual players are being sought. For more information and to register, call 973-328-5060 or visit www.ccm.edu/foundation/golf/.

        Discover CCM at Fall Open Houses

        Sussex County Community College Selected for Community Journalism Course

        County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph, ranked in the top 1.8 percent of the Best Community Colleges nationwide, is having two open houses in October — each packed with informative and engaging sessions to discover all that CCM has to offer.  

        An in-person Open House on Saturday, October 14, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. has three convenient starting sessions at 9 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Registration is required and may be found online at www.ccm.edu/admissions/visiting-us/.  

        This on-campus opportunity enables high school students, their families, adult learners and veterans to explore first-hand how the highly ranked CCM education can meet educational and career goals to reach one’s destination.   

        The community is invited to speak with professors and our Workforce Development team to learn about more than 100 associate degree, certificate and professional development programs, plus the support services designed to reach one’s destination and achieve success.  Participants can meet current students and tour the college’s state-of-the-art facilities, labs, studios and performing spaces.   

        They also can learn about the admissions, registration and financial aid process, and the more than 50 co-curricular clubs and Div. II/III athletic programs CCM provides for a complete college experience. Free applications waivers will be offered and visitors to the Open House may also apply for admission on the spot and register for courses that day, plus be eligible to win a virtual reality headset. For details visit https://www.ccm.edu/open-house/.  

        Veterans and their family can learn about funding opportunities, support services and a grant-funded program to prepare for careers in advanced manufacturing for no cost.   

        As the expectations of students and workforce demands change, CCM responds by addressing the increasing demand for online learning. The CCM Virtual Campus, which offers a number of degree and certificate programs for students who prefer a fully online education, is holding a virtual Open House on Thursday, October 26 from 7 to 8 p.m. via Zoom. Registration is required to receive a meeting link. Go to https://bit.ly/CCMVirtualOpenHouse.  

        Included among its many distinctions, CCM 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.    

         

        Sussex County Community College Selected for Community Journalism Course

        Sussex County Community College Selected for Community Journalism Course

        Sussex County Community College in Newton is one of four New Jersey community colleges to receive a $40,000 award from The New Jersey Council for the Humanities and Journalism + Design at The New School to train faculty members and fund tuition-free, noncredit certificates in community journalism at their institutions. 

        These certificate programs, which will be unique to each college, will be developed by the selected colleges through training and support from NJCH/J+D and other local news experts. Each college will also facilitate partnerships with local media and community organizations to provide pathways for participants of the certificate programs to get involved in local news production. The program aspires to establish and promote community colleges as trusted hubs for news and information, particularly in communities that lack reliable local sources. 

        The other community college awardees include Atlantic Cape Community College, Mays Landing; Mercer County Community College, West Windsor; and Middlesex College, Edison. 

        “As institutions that broaden educational access and serve diverse populations, New Jersey’s community colleges are well-positioned to fuel greater engagement with local news and information,” said Dr. Valerie Popp, director of strategic initiatives at NJCH. “

        The selected colleges have proposed community journalism programs that tap into their existing strengths in areas such as media and communications pedagogy, student publications, civic education, and more. We’re especially excited to bring together colleges that represent different communities across the state, from rural Sussex County to the Atlantic coast.” 

        "Each of these colleges bring rich expertise and ideas for growing community journalism programs that will help catalyze greater participation in local news production and distribution," said Cole Goins, managing director of the Journalism + Design lab. "We're eager to learn from and build with the program teams at each institution to nurture thriving news and information networks in their communities." 

        Beginning in July 2023, representatives from each college will take part in intensive workshops that will explore how to create, facilitate, and sustain certificate programs that incorporate local voices and community needs. Colleges also will have the opportunity to build sustainable connections with local media partners and nonprofit organizations in their regions through a Spring 2024 community journalism/community college convening, as well as through seed grants for the colleges’ community partners, supported by NJCH and J+D. 

        CCM Marks Latinx – Latino/a Heritage Month

        CCM Marks Latinx – Latino/a Heritage Month

        Community members are invited to celebrate Latinx – Latino/a Heritage Month with multiple events taking place at County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph through October 15.  

        An exhibition of local Latino artists began Friday, Sept. 15, with a reception, including live music, food and drink, free and open to the public at 7 p.m. in The Art Gallery.   

        Festivities continue on Saturday, September 30, with ¡AQUÍ ESTAMOS! – WE ARE HERE! starting with a vendor showcase of the arts at 6 p.m. in the Student Community Center, and a live-stage performance at 7:30 p.m. in the Dragonetti Auditorium. This cultural event features a wide array of musical performances from mariachi, jazz, opera, rock en Español and salsa, to poetry readings, plus theater and dance commemorating the talent of the Latinx community.   

        Tickets are $20 for the community, $10 for CCM students, staff and faculty, and proceeds from this event support the ongoing advancement of CCM’s Dover College Promise program, which provides college readiness programs to middle and high school students in that community. To secure a spot, go to https://bit.ly/3S1JzT7. The celebration is presented by the college’s Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Department of Music, Performing Arts and Music Technologies, Foundation, and IDEA Cultural. For more information call 201-400-6587.  

        On Tuesday, October 3, mental health professionals share their personal journeys, strategies for success and current mental health trends, with a particular focus on young adults, at a live, in-person and free event on campus at 12:30 p.m. in Sheffield Hall Room 100.  

        The college presents a free screening of the film "Frida," featuring Salma Hayek, on Friday, October 6, at 7:30 p.m., in the Dragonetti Auditorium, followed by a discussion about Frida Kahlo’s significant artistic contributions.  

        Every Tuesday throughout Latinx – Latino/a Heritage Month, through October 10, the CCM Virtual Campus plans to celebrate the richness of Latinx – Latino/a culture online. Follow @ccm_vclearning at noon each week to be part of the engaging conversation and to learn some new fun facts.  

        CCM is committed to excellence in teaching and lifelong learning through the delivery of exceptional programs and services to its students and to the larger community that reflect a dedication to inclusiveness and diversity, educational advancement, cultural enrichment and workforce development.  

        Events around town

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