Mount Olive Chamber Reorganizes for '08

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - The Mount Olive Chamber of Commerce held its annual reorganization meeting for 2008 in December.

Lou Nisivoccia of Nisivoccia Consulting has been named the president of the Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce for the second consecutive year. With Rick Ege of GBW Insurance named as vice president for 2008.

Joining Lou and Rick are Jeff Stadelman of The Wine Rack as Recording Secretary, Anna Cirilli of Valley National Bank as Corresponding Secretary, and Nick Sarinelli of Nisivoccia & Co. as Treasurer.

Trustees include Rita L. Hilbert of Mount Olive Public Library, Sabine Elsasser of Optimal Family Chiropractic, Dr. Jacqueline Nisivoccia of Morris Podiatry Associates, Thom Torode of Action Business Coaching, Laura Bartus of International Trade Center Alliance, and Nalini Deonarine of Primerica Financial Services.

Ceremonies were held during the Chamber's annual holiday party at The Skylands in Randolph on December 11th.


Board members who were on hand for the photo include (clockwise from back left to front) Thom Torode, Rick Ege, Lou Nisivoccia, Dr. Jacqueline Nisivoccia, Jeff Stadelman, Richard J. Murray, Esq., Nick Sarinelli, Sabine Elsasser, Anna Cirilli, Rita L. Hilbert, and Rev. Paul Ingeneri.

For more information on becoming a member of the Mount Olive Chamber of Commerce visit the Chamber's website >>

Mount Olive Chamber hosts Breakfast with the Mayor

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - The Mount Olive Chamber of Commerce will host its second annual Breakfast with the Mayor on Tuesday January 15, 2008.

Mount Olive Township Mayor David Scapicchio will look back on 2007 and update chamber members on what to expect in 2008.

The breakfast meeting will take place at the Longhorn Steakhouse in the ITC Crossing Shopping Center, starting at 8 a.m.

Cost is $10 for chamber members, $20 for guests. Please RSVP to the chamber, 973-691-0109 or info@mtolivechambernj.com.

For further information about the chamber, visit www.mtolivechambernj.com >>

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Local Executive Accredited to Serve Businesses in Morris County

MORRISTOWN, NEW JERSEY – Morristown businessperson, Paula Robb, has been accredited by the Institute for Independent Business (IIB). Paula’s recent accreditation will expand business owners’ access to the Institute’s network of Associates in Morris and Essex counties.

“We are delighted to have an executive of Paula’s caliber and experience become accredited,” said Ed Dolan, Fellow and trustee of the Institute.

Paula added, “the Institute’s accreditation means a lot to me”. “Besides the prestige, my relationship with the IIB enables me to provide business owners with a depth of resources that other business advisors simply cannot offer. I am now part of a worldwide network of senior executives from every type of business imaginable. With resources like that, I can assist my clients with any issue or challenge they may be facing.”

The Institute for Independent Business (www.iib.org.ws) is a global, not-for-profit, research, training and accreditation organization established in 1984 to provide “practical advice that works”. It is the largest organization of its type with over 4,500 executives having been accredited. Accredited Associates are dedicated to delivering practical advice and support to entrepreneurs and business owners.

BusinessWorks, LLC offers a free consultation and assessment.
Contact Paula Robb at 973-292-5328, or via email at paularobb@businessworksnj.com.

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First Night Morris County 2008

MORRIS COUNTY, NEW JERSEY - Looking for some fun on New Year's Eve? On December 31, 2007, come to the Morristown Green from 7:00pm to Midnight and celebrate the 16th annual First Night Morris County.

First Night is a substance-free, New Year's Eve festival of the arts. Families, seniors, couples and singles from all walks of life throughout Morris County come together to share, celebrate, learn, create, and experience the life enhancing possibilities of the arts.

Enjoy performances by Mike Agranoff, Andes Fusion, Big Jeff and Mr. Kleiner, Rio Clemente, Colonial Symphony, Coro Lirico, Mr. Fish’s Super Circus Stuff, Peter Fletcher, Inna Gilmore, Girl Authority, Harmonium Choral Society, James D. Hicks, Grover Kemble Sextet, Kit’s, Kaboodle, Alison Larkin, Jennifer Levine, Kenneth Little Hawk, Bob Lloyd, Lyrica Chamber Music, Meet the Musicians: Dennis Kobray as Chopin, Meet the Presidents, Yuqing Meng, The Dazzling Mills Family, Morris Choral Society, The Robert Murdock Band, Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, New Jersey Tap Ensemble Soloists, The New Philharmonic of New Jersey, No Discipline, Ann Rabson, Kate Lyn Reiter, Richard Reiter, Kip Rosser, The Russian Duo, Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Will Shaw, Shubanjali Dance Company, Alexander Slobodyanik and Laryssa Krupa, Solid Brass, Orrin Star & the Sultans of String, The Stein Brothers Quartet, The Strauss-Warschauer Duo, and Carol Titus.

Performances take place in venues within walking distance of the Morristown Green, including The Community Theatre at Mayo Center for the Performing Arts, Morristown High School, county administration buildings and numerous places of worship in the immediate area.

There will be two fireworks displays, both visible from around the Morristown Green, scheduled for 9:15 p.m. and midnight.

First Night Morris County 2008 buttons serve as admission passes to all events and programs -- cost $15 each or $50 for a family four-pack and may be purchased in advance at local stores and other button outlets. On New Year’s Eve, buttons will be sold for $18 each. There is no charge for children 4 and under.

For more information visit the First Night Morris County 2008 website >>

Since First Night’s inception 16 years ago, the Arts Council of the Morris Area has served as its artistic programmer, selecting and scheduling hundreds of artists performing in over 25 sites throughout Morristown. Representing multiple artistic disciplines, the live performances, exhibits, activities and demonstrations this year range in style from the popular to the classical, from western to world cultures - for all ages, from young child through adult.

View more information on the Arts Council of the Morris Area >>

Mount Olive Chamber's Annual Food Drive A Huge Success

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - The Mount Olive Chamber of Commerce's Annual Fall Food Drive has always reaped good results. This year, however, the results were truly amazing.

The organization collected nearly 2,200 pounds of food and $1473.30 in monetary donations.

"The 2,200 pounds of food collected will carry my food pantry through until next fall," said an appreciative Diann Brochu, Director of Senior and Social Services for Mount Olive. "The monetary donations will be used to buy Shop-Rite gift cards which Township residents, who have fallen on hard times, can use to buy perishable food items."

The fall food drive began on Nov. 1 and ended on Nov. 25.

"People were very, very generous this year," said chamber president Lou Nisivoccia of Nisivoccia Consulting LLC. "People see that times are tough for many folks and they responded in a big way."

The office of Dr. Berezny of Berezny Chiropratic in Flanders, which started the food drive 16 years ago, collected 200 pounds of food and $850 in monetary donations. Several other businesses came up big, as well. Companies in the International Trade Center combined to amass 1,225 pounds of food. DPC - Siemens, PNC Bank, Goddard School, Mount Olive Public Library and The Wine Rack brought in extensive amounts of food, too. A host of other businesses collected additional varying amounts of food.

For further information about the chamber and what it can do for you and your business, visit www.mtolivechambernj.com >>

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FIRST LEGO League New Jersey State Tournament

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - Yesterday, The New Jersey FIRST LEGO League Championship Tournament was held at the Mount Olive High School Gymnasium. The 2007 tournament included forty-eight FIRST LEGO League teams from New Jersey. This event is a community celebration of the achievements of middle school students (ages 9-14) working smart in science and technology.

Starting this year, entry into the NJ State Tournament required qualifying as a winner of a local event. Depending on the size of the local tournament, the Champion's Award winner along with winners of the individual categories (Robot Performance, Teamwork, Research Project and Technical Presentation) received an invitation to the State Tournament.

View Photos from the event >>

The Mount Olive Robotics Team(MORT) was established in the fall of 1996 under the guideance of Bill McGowan as a joint partnership between the County College of Morris and the Mount Olive High School.

For more information visit the Mount Olive Robotics Team (MORT) website >>

FIRST LEGO League (FLL) is an international program for children ages 9-14 (9-16 outside of the U.S. and Canada). It combines a hands-on, interactive robotics program and a research presentation with a sports-like atmosphere. Teams consist of up to 10 members and focus on such things as team building, problem solving, creativity, and analytical thinking.

For more information visit the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) website >>

DARE Concert at the Mount Olive Senior Center

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - The Mount Olive Senior Center will host a benefit concert to raise money for D.A.R.E.(Drug Abuse Resistance Education) on December 22nd, 2007 from 6-11pm. The benefit concert is dedicated to helping further a drug and alcohol free message to a new generation.

The 'D.A.R.E. To Discover Rising Bands' concert will give music fans a glimpse at the next generation of influential performers. The lineup for the concert is a who’s who of up and coming rock bands. Headlined by New Jersey’s own, Alamance, and including performances by Pull the Pin, Of Fate and Chance, Kelsey Merritt, and The Onset.

Tickets are $10 and are available for purchase through:

The Mount Olive Senior Center
204 Flanders-Drakestown Road
Budd Lake, New Jersey 07828

Tickets will also be available at the door the evening of the benefit concert.

For over 20 years DARE has gone beyond traditional drug abuse and violence prevention programs. DARE gives children the skills needed to recognize and resist the subtle and overt pressures that cause them to experiment with drugs or become involved in gangs or violent activities.

For more information about D.A.R.E. please visit www.dare.com

For more information regarding the event contact:

Janet Castiel
Redwood Entertainment Inc.
138 Haven Avenue, Suite 4D
New York, NY 10032
Phone: (212)543-9998
info@redwoodentertainment.com

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NJ Highlands Regional Master Plan

CHESTER, NEW JERSEY - Yesterday, the New Jersey Highlands Council announced the commencement of a 90-day public comment period for the Highlands Regional Master Plan(RMP - Final Draft 2007). Three public hearings have been scheduled for February 2008 for open public comment.

“The Final Draft of the Regional Master Plan is an exciting example of regional planning in New Jersey,” said John Weingart, Chairman of the Highlands Council. “The Council members and staff have worked hard to prepare a plan will protect, enhance and restore the valuable resources of the Highlands as required by the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act. While this draft plan already reflects changes suggested by the public during the Council's many hearings and lengthy comment period earlier this year, we wanted to provide another opportunity for input. We invite the public including interested stakeholders to review the new final draft and suggest potential improvements for the Council to consider before adopting the Regional Master Plan."

Publication of the Highlands Regional Master Plan(Final Draft November 2007), the accompanying technical addenda and/or Land Use Capability Series maps are now available on the New Jersey Highlands Council's web site >>

The New Jersey Highland's Council will hold three public meetings regarding the Regional Master Plan on the following dates:

• February 6, 2008 from 4pm to end of public comment at the Morris County Haggerty Education Center, 53 East Hanover Ave, Morristown, New Jersey.


• February 11, 2008 from 6pm to end of public comment at the Passic County Community College, One College Blvd., Paterson, New Jersey.


• February 13, 2008 from 6:30pm to end of public comment at the Voorhees High School, 256 County Rt 513, Glan Gardner, New Jersey.

The public comment period will officially close on February 28, 2008. If you are unable to attend one of the scheduled public meetings the NJ Highlands Council is offering the following two additional ways to submit your comments:

• Via Email - RMPComments@highlands.state.nj.us


• Via Snail Mail -
  
  Attn: Final Draft RMP Comments
  Highlands Council
  100 North Road - Route 513
  Chester, New Jersey 07930

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Bon Venture Services Announces Contest Winners

FLANDERS, NEW JERSEY — Bon Venture Services have chosen the winners of their first annual drawing contest. Congratulations to 5 year old Michael Kane of Kingston, Pennsylvania, 6 year old Kalel Martorano of Swedesboro, New Jersey, 9 year old Michael Lewandowski of Voorhees, New Jersey, 13 year old Meagan Pessolano of Flanders, New Jersey and 15 year old Samantha DaRosa of Johnston, Rhode Island. Each winner will receive a $100 American Express Gift Check and their artwork may appear on church bulletin covers along the East Coast during the holiday season.

Bon Venture is a community-focused organization that helps new and established businesses publicize their products and services locally. While Catholic parish bulletins are the core business, Bon Venture also produces restaurant place mats as well as community and Temple newsletters. With a network of nearly 700 communities along the East Coast, Bon Venture’s individual publications enable Parishes, communities, and Temples to spread the word and connect with their supporters at no cost. After 31 years of growth and success under their belt, this family run company continues to be dedicated to building businesses and improving communities.

The children’s works of art will “deck the halls” of Bon Venture throughout this holiday season. If you are in the area, please feel free to stop by and see for yourself.

To see the winning artwork and to get more information on Bon Venture, visit www.bonventure.net.

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2007 Christmas Tree & Wreath Sale

MOUNT OLIVE TOWNSHIP, NEW JERSEY - The Budd Lake First Aid and Rescue Squad will be holding their annual Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale. Trees are set to arrive on Friday, November 30, 2007.

The Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale will feature hand picked fresh cut Douglas Fir trees from Pennsylvania. There will be a beautiful display of wreaths in all shapes and sizes. Each wreath is hand made especially for you by The Budd Lake First Aid and Rescue Squad members. Tell the kids to be on their best behavior and they just might see Santa!

The Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale will be open from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM weekdays and 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekends. All proceeds will benefit the Budd Lake First Aid and Rescue Squad. All sales are tax deductible so hurray, the trees go fast!

For more information please call the Squad at 973-691-0900 x7382.

First Snow of the Season

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - The first snow of the season arrived dumping 6-12 inches on parts of Mount Olive Township today.

Snow Removal trucks were out in abundance helping to clear the wet accumulation. That didn't seem to help traffic much this morning. There were delays on Route 206, 46, and 10 due to ditched drivers and rubber-neckers. We also heard reports of slow moving traffic on portions of Interstates 80 and 78 due to minor fender-benders.

Some Morris County Schools made the call for a delayed opening or cancellation this morning. Mount Olive Township Schools were all open, with a 2hr delay and canceled after school activities.

The Mount Olive Township Board of Education begins this winter season with the Honeywell Instant Alert System. Parents are welcome and encouraged to sign-up and register information about your children and family for emergency contact details and preferences. School delay and cancellation information will still be posted on the Mount Olive School district telephone information hot line (973) 691-4019 and on local television and radio stations.

For more information on the Honeywell Instant Alert System or to create an account, please visit https://instantalert.honeywell.com/

NJ Highland's Council Expansion

CHESTER, NEW JERSEY - It's not what you're thinking. Today, the New Jersey Highland's Council released a revision to the Regional Master Plan (RMP) that will allow continued development with minimal regulation for some areas of the 860,000-acre region that includes much of Morris County.

There are 88 municipalities and portions of seven counties in the Highlands Region. For Morris County, all or part of Parsippany, Morristown, Morris Township, Morris Plains, Hanover, Boonton, Montvale and Denville are included in the revised draft of the new Land Use Capability Map Series. This series includes an updated regional zone map, as well as maps that outline water and wastewater capabilities for the Highlands Region.

“These maps are a tool for more effective local and regional planning because they allow us to address land capability and capacity throughout the Highlands and see how one decision can affect the entire area.” states John Weingart, Chairman of the Highlands Council.

For More Information on the Land Use Capability Map Series visit the New Jersey Highlands Council’s Web site, www.highlands.state.nj.us >>

View the draft of the updated Land Use Capability Zone Map - View PDF >>

Contact Information
New Jersey Highlands Council
100 North Road, Route 513
Chester, New Jersey 07930
(908) 879-4205

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Election News & Results

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - 2007 General Election results are in. Nearly 4,000 voters went to the polls today. Mayor David Scapicchio was re-elected to a four-year term. Phil Tobey and Colleen Labow retain their seats on council and are joined by newcomer Alex Roman.

GENERAL ELECTION 2007 FINAL RESULTS
Mayor of Mount Olive Township:

• 2,739 votes - David Scapicchio


•   1,018 votes - Richard Escobar


•   719 votes - Walter Lata

Mount Olive Township Council:

• 2,616 votes - Phil Tobey


• 2,527 votes - Alex Roman


• 2,110 votes - Colleen Labow


• 2,093 votes - John Mania


• 1,656 votes - Jim Buell


• 1,569 votes - Rosemary Tonczos

Public Questions (Statewide)

• Ballot Question #1 -


• Ballot Question #2 -


• Ballot Question #3 -


• Ballot Question #4 -

Spring Forward, Fall Back

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - Remember to set your clocks back! Daylight Saving Time will officially end at 2:00am local time on Sunday, November 4th, 2007.

Daylight Saving Time (DST) start and end dates change this year due to the Energy Policy Act of 2005 signed by President George W. Bush in August of 2005.

This year, DST began by setting clocks ahead one hour on the second Sunday of March (March 11, 2007) instead of the first Sunday of April (April 1, 2007). Clocks will be set back one hour on the first Sunday in November (November 4, 2007), rather than the last Sunday of October (October 28, 2007).

Be sure to check any electronic device, such as personal computer or vcr, that automatically updates the system clock. Older systems will not have been programmed with the new rules in mind. To avoid these problems in the future, you'll either have to make the change manually twice a year, upgrade software, or buy newer systems.

Protect Yourself and Your Family
Many fire departments around the nation encourage people to use Daylight Saving Time as a convenient reminder to change the batteries in your smoke detectors. "A working smoke detector more than doubles a person's chances of surviving a home fire" says the Budd Lake Fire Department in Mount Olive. It is estimated that 95 percent of homes in the United States have at least one smoke detectors, but one-third are estimated to have dead or missing batteries**.

In the event of a fire, properly installed and maintained smoke alarms will provide an early warning alarm to your household. This alarm could save your own life and those of your loved ones by providing the chance to escape.


**Statistic courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

New Jersey Taxes

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - You might have noticed the signs popping up all over town. Campaign Signs for the Republican candidates Scappicchio, Tobey, Roman, and Labow or Democratic candidates Escobar, Buell, Mania, and Tonczos. There are even some rather large handmade signs of the Independent candidate for mayor Walter Lata.

The sign that really caught my eye was the one that says "Stop Higher Taxes Vote No on all Ballot Questions". All New Jersey voters will be asked to vote on four public questions that will appear on the November 6th general election ballot.

Public Question No. 1 - Do you approve/disapprove that all money earned from the 2006 sales tax increase should be dedicated to property tax relief.

Public Question No. 2 - Do you approve/disapprove the state of New Jersey borrowing $450 million to give grants for stem cell research.

Public Question No. 3 - Do you approve/disapprove the state of New Jersey borrowing $200 million for farmland and open space preservation.

Public Question No. 4 - Do you approve/disapprove revising language in the state constitution that denies a person the right to vote by deleting the phrase "idiot or insane person" and replacing it with the phrase "person who has been adjudicated by a court of competent jurisdiction to lack the capacity to understand the act of voting."

To read more about the public questions, they can be found on the www.nj.gov website >>

If you are unsure of what these questions really mean and how they will affect taxes in New Jersey - ask questions, do research, know before you vote.

Fall Fest at Turkey Brook Park

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - Mount Olive Township Recreation Department presents 'Fall Fest' at Turkey Brook Park this Saturday, October 27th between 12:00pm - 5:00pm.

Come enjoy Hay Rides, Music, Face Painting, Pumpkin Decorating, Monster Truck Rides on Webslinger, Games, and Hot Apple Cider in the Turkey Brook Pavilion.

Mount Olive Soccer Club's 15th annual Halloween Tournament is also scheduled for Saturday. Games will run from 8:00am to 4:00pm featuring teams from Long Valley, Lenape Valley, Jefferson, Chatham, Westfield, Hanover, Rockaway, and Parsippany to name a few.

For more information about the Fall Fest at Turkey Brook Park, call the Mount Olive Township Recreation Department at (973) 691-0900, Ext. 7261.

For more information about the Mount Olive Soccer Club's 15th annual Halloween Tournament contact the Tournament Director tournament@mountolivesoccer.com

Dog Park at Turkey Brook Grand Opening

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - Mount Olive Township announced today the community Dog Park will hold a Grand Opening ceremony on October 21, 2007 at 10:00am.

Dog owners are eager to explore the the new 'Bark Park' located in Turkey Brook Park. The new park offers approximately 2 acres with dedicated areas for small, large, and disabled dogs.

A complete set of rules and regulations otherwise known as 'Petiquette' is listed on the township's website. Plan your visit >>

Employees from the Mount Olive Township Animal Control Authority will attend the grand opening and be available to educate pet owners about their services. Mayor David Scapicchio will also be attending for the 'leash cutting ceremony'.

Mt Olive Chamber of Commerce sponsors Meet the Candidates Night

The Mount Olive Township Chamber of Commerce is hosting it's third annual 'Meet the Candidates Night' at the Mount Olive Middle School Wednesday, October 17, 2007 beginning at 7:00pm.

Come out and show your support, ask questions, see what this years candidates are all about. Election day will be here before you know it.

Last Day to Register to Vote October 16th, 2007

General Elections will be held Tuesday, November 6 from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information on where to vote visit Morris County 2007 Elections >>

Make a difference in your community!

Get ready to Vote Mount Olive!

MOUNT OLIVE TOWNSHIP - November 6th will be here before you know it.

Open Positions:
Mayor, David M. Scapicchio: Term Expiration: 12/31/07
Council person, Phil Tobey, Colleen Labow, Jim Buell: Term Expiration: 12/31/07

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Mount Olive Republican Candidates will be holding a Comedy Night Fundraiser.

Date: Friday October 5, 2007
Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Wyndham Garden Hotel, International Trade Zone, Mount Olive Township, New Jersey
For further information contact Betty Cutter, (973) 691-4854 or Mayor David Scapicchio, (973) 476-3602

Come out and Meet the Candidates
Running for Mayor of Mount Olive Township, David M. Scapicchio.
Running for Mount Olive Township Council: Phil Tobey, Alex Roman, Colleen Labow

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Mount Olive Democratic Committee will be holding it's Seventh Annual Family Miniature Golf Fundraiser.

Date: Monday September 24, 2007
Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: The Golf Zone, 239 Route 206 North, Flanders, NJ
Tee Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, The Golf Zone, 239 Route 206 North, Flanders, NJ
Read the flyer >> http://www.morrisdems.org

Come out and Meet the Candidates
Running for Mayor of Mount Olive Township, Richard T. Escobar.
Running for Mount Olive Township Council: James Buell, John Mania, Rosemary Tonczos

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Voting is simple, Here's how to Register

ELIGIBILITY :
To register in New Jersey you must:
• be a citizen of the United States
• be at least 18 years of age by the time of the next election
• be a resident of this State and county at your address at least 30 days before the next election
• not be serving a sentence or on parole or probation as the result of a conviction of any indictable offense under the laws of this or another state or of the United States.

To register to vote in Morris County:
New Jersey Voter Registration Form >>

Mail completed form to:

SUPERINTENDENT OF ELECTIONS
COMMISSIONER OF REGISTRATION
ADMINISTRATION & RECORDS BLDG
1 COURT STREET
PO BOX 900
MORRISTOWN, NJ 07963-0900

Last Day to Register to Vote October 16th, 2007

General Elections will be held Tuesday, November 6 from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information on where to vote visit Morris County 2007 Elections >>

Make a difference in your community!

STS-118 Educational NASA TV

I was a high school sophomore in 1986, sitting in my science classroom with a large TV next to the teacher, eagerly awaiting the space shuttle challenger's launch. It was a moment larger than life. A teacher just like mine was going into space.

Excitement quickly turned to an overwhelming feeling of sadness as we all watched in silence as the Shuttle disintegrated moments after launch, killing all seven astronauts on board.

It is truly amazing to me how far technology has come in such a short period of time. Tomorrow... teachers, students, families, anyone, can watch NASA TV and/or online web cast of the crew members of space shuttle Endeavour in a space-to-ground conversation with an audience at the Discovery Center of Idaho. The program is scheduled for 3:09pm Mountain Time. For More Information visit NASA Television http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/

I do believe I've been waiting for this moment for the last 21 years.

Preventing accidental injury - Pool Safety

Swimming pool accident: Over the weekend a 6yr old boy from Union County died during a birthday party for him at a friend's backyard pool.

Drowning usually occurs quickly and silently. The boy had been using a flotation device earlier in the day. He took it off to use the bathroom, then returned to the pool area. To read more about this story visit www.nj.com >>

Most children who drown in swimming pools were last seen in the home, had been missing from sight for less than five minutes and were in the care of one or both parents at the time of the drowning.**

What can you do?

• Install four-sided isolation fencing at least five feet high and equipped with self-closing and self-latching gates. This alone could prevent 50 to 90 percent of childhood residential swimming pool drownings and near-drownings.


• Door alarms, pool alarms and automatic pool covers, when used correctly, can add an extra level of protection.


• Educate your children about pool safety and household rules. Do NOT rely on flotation devices alone.


• Never leave a child unsupervised in or around a swimming pool or spa, even for a moment. During a pool party, designate a lifeguard and rotate shifts.

** Statistic courtesy of http://usa.safekids.org

Great Bake Sale in 2 Great Locations

MOUNT OLIVE, NEW JERSEY - Bake Sale to Support Mount Olive Marauders Soccer Team

The Mount Olive High School girl's soccer team will be holding 2 bake sales this Saturday, August 4th from 10:00am to 4:00pm at the ShopRite in Flanders, New Jersey and Sams Club in Budd Lake, New Jersey.

The girls will have a nice display of freshly baked goods. The fundraiser was designed to help the team raise money for new uniforms for the 2007-2008 season.

Stop by and show your support!

It's a wrap for the 2nd Annual Mount Olive Carnival

Jill Daggon of the Mount Olive Township Recreation Department and everyone who helped or Volunteered did a fantastic job organizing and running the event.

The Fireworks Display was spectacular. The Shuttle buses were constantly on the go. Dreamland Amusements provided wonderful rides and games. In the new stage/pavilion area live Musical performances could be heard all weekend long. And a large number of people spent time at the Kiwanis Club Dunk Tank to soak a few of their favorite politicians.

If you are a resident who attended the carnival and have a suggestion for next year, fill out the Carnival Evaluation Form >>

To see photos from this event, check out the photo slideshow >>

Rain Rain, go away!

The rains came, but it couldn't dampen the spirits to those who got an early start to the weekend at the Mount Olive Carnival at Turkey Brook Park.

There was a fantastic showing considering the threat of gloom and doom. Some vendors got an early start setting up their booth and displays. Everyone put their best faces forward and the evening was a success.

Many thanks to the people who make all this possible: from the idea, to funding, volunteers, support staff, fire, police, and rescue... they don't hear it enough, Thank you!

Tomorrow's schedule includes: Carnival rides, monster truck rides on Webslinger, classic car display, Kiwanis club dunk tank, caricaturist, live music and more! And who can forget the fireworks? Bang's, pop's, wow's and aaahhh's begin at 9:30 pm. Come out and see the show!

To see photos from this event, check out the photo slideshow >>

Mount Olive Carnival - Opening Night is a Big Hit !

Fun was had by all at the first night of the Mount Olive Carnival & Community Weekend. The event is being held at Turkey Brook Park and will feature about 75 vendors, sponsors and service organizations.

Be sure to stop by and visit the Kiwanis Club Dunk Tank, Webslinger Monster Truck, Nextel Cup NASCAR Vehicle, Fire Trucks, Smoke Trailer, and the Stage with Live Music All Weekend!

To see photos from this event, check out the photo slideshow >>

Mount Olive Carnival and Community Weekend

July 26th - July 29th 2007 - Turkey Brook Park
Fireworks will begin at 9:30pm on Saturday 7/28 (rain date 7/29)

The Mount Olive Carnival will open Thursday, July 26th. The Community Weekend hours will be: Friday, 7/27 5pm until 8pm, or 11pm (your choice of end times! No vehicle movement between 8pm -11pm ), Saturday, 7/28 from 1pm until 8pm or 11pm (fireworks scheduled for 9:30pm) and Sunday, 7/29 from 1pm until 9pm (rain date for fireworks). This will be a terrific event to celebrate all the great organizations and neighbors that makes Mount Olive a great place to live!

Enjoy world famous rides, including bumper cars, carousel, giant slide, Starship 2000, and lots of kiddie rides. The carnival will have plenty of games for kids of all ages, like the water gun, skee ball, and whack-a-mole...all with great prizes. Live Music featuring over 15 bands.

Shuttle bus service will be available Sat and Sunday during carnival hours from the Tinc Road School and Mount Olive High School parking lots.

For additional information visit the township website http://www.mtolivetwp.org/recreation.html or email recdept@mtolivetwp.org

Extortion Attempt involving Mt. Olive Family

A local Youth minister and his wife were arrested after collecting cash for an alleged extortion attempt.

About a week ago, a Mount Olive family received, a letter with detailed instructions, a pouch, and death threats. The unidentified family were instructed not to contact police and to place $20,000 in cash at a specified location in Schooley's Mountain Park in Washington Township. If not, the letter threatened that they and/or their child would be killed.

David Evans, a director of youth ministry at Long Valley Presbyterian Church, and his wife Faith Evans, were arrested Friday in Schooley's Mountain Park after picking up $20,000 cash from a designated drop site. The couple had their two young sons with them.

For more information on this horrifying story please read the following...
NJ.com, Star-Ledger report
Daily Record

My heart goes out to the family involved in this terrifying event. As I watch the world go by from my porch, I beg each and everyone of you to watch out for your neighbors overall well-being.

Mount Olive Township Police Department Anonymous Tip Form
http://www.mopd.org/tips.html

Bake Sale to Support Mt. Olive Marauders Soccer Team

The Mt. Olive High School girl's soccer team will be holding a bake sale this Saturday, July 21st from 10:00am to 4:00pm at the ShopRite in Flanders, NJ.

The girls will have a nice display of freshly baked goods. The fundraiser was designed to help the team raise money for new uniforms for this year's upcoming season.

Stop by and show your support!

Plenty of tails are wagging over construction of community 'bark park'

Mount Olive Township Council will hold a public hearing next Tuesday, July 24 to discuss an ordinance to appropriate $35k for construction of a community dog park.

I'm a cat lover myself, but understand the need for an area where man's best friend can roam freely. Dogs are very social creatures that need to de-stress and play as much as we do. The socialization aspect alone could be the answer to a dogs mental well-being. If that doesn't work, you can always call the dog whisper... Cesar Millan.

The chosen spot is an open field in Turkey Brook Park. It will be approximately 2 acres with dedicated areas for small, large, and disabled dogs. Dog owners who use the park will be required to 'scoop the poop' with the assistance of on-site disposable containers and Pick up bags.

William Cirone, the township animal control officer, is heading up the fundraising efforts and looking for volunteers. If your interested in joining the pack, please give Willie a call (973) 691-0900 ext.7334

Mutant Crickets of Flanders

Ok, maybe there are not really mutated crickets caused from radon exposure. But exactly what are these strange bugs living in my garage? The insect is a beige to light brown color with bands or "rings" of a darker (black) color on it's body and legs. They don't chirp, are wingless, humpbacked in apperance, 1-2 inches long with antennae twice the length of it's body. When poked with a stick, the darn thing jumped higher than a grasshopper AT ME! I promtly attacked back with a fly swatter leaving a few broken legs and a rather large spot on the garage floor. When I went to get my husband, we discovered that it actually crawled away. Tough little bugger.

I had to know what these military style mutant crickets really were. After a few searches on Google, I discovered they are commonly known as the Camel or Cave Cricket of the Rhaphidophoridae family.

Camel Crickets are occasional indoor pests in damp dark places, but generally prefer some juciy spots outdoors like rotten logs, stumps or hollow trees, damp leaf litter, stones, or wood piles. They feed on organic debris and seem to love any fabric that may be stored in a damp basement, crawl space, or laundry room.

Contolling the population
Start by eliminating there habitat. Remove any leaf litter or grass clippings. Move any wood plies away from your house, garage or shed. Use grout, caulking, or other sealers for any possible entry point into your home such as doorways, windows, faucets, or masonary cracks. Make sure to replace or patch any damaged screens.

If you happen to see one inside, I recommend a shoe because the fly swatter seemed to be quite ineffective. There are also pesticides for control that may be effective, consult a professional exteriminator for the best recommendation.

Good Luck!

Sizzling Heat

Up and Up it goes - summer temperatures are beginning to soar! During hot and humid weather, the body's internal temperature can rise. Watch out for heat-related illnesses such as sunburn, dehydration, heat cramps, heat rash, heat exhaustion, or worse... heat stroke.

Who's at risk?
Plain and simple, Everyone. Although some people may be at greater risk than others. Babies, small children, and older people are more susceptible, as well as anyone suffering from a recent illness like diarrhoea or mild dehydration.

Think Prevention!
Be sure to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after any hot and sunny activity. Stay in the shade as much as possible. Avoid alcohol and sodas, and for pete's sake don't overexert yourself!

For more information on emergency preparedness and response visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's FAQ About Extreme Heat.

Note: All information is for informational purposes only. For specific medical advise, consult a doctor.

7-7-07 Luck and Superstition

I wonder just how many weddings will be preformed today throughout the state. There maybe a grand total of seven hundred and seventy seven in Morris County alone. Superstitious couples all over the world will tie the knot today in hopes of tripling their chances of successful marital bliss. Leaves me to wonder if 9 months from now will there be 777 births on the same day? I guess we'll have to wait and see.

Feeling Lucky? Atlantic City casinos are offering very creative triple digit promotions as flocks superstitious gamblers rush in to try their luck. The Borgata is rolling out the '777 Extravaganza' which offers $777 bonus slot dollars every seven minutes. Around town you can also find $7 drink specials and a $7,777 deluxe hotel package.

Throughout history, the number seven has been associated with good luck and bad, wisdom, intelligence, mystery, and solitude. Seven is a prime number that has inspired many historical facts and has surrounded many findings in Science and Technology. There seven days in a week, seven continents, seven deadly sins, seven Liberal Arts, seven wonders of the world, seven seas, seven chakras, seven colors in a rainbow, and it's even the neutral pH of pure water.

7-7-07 is considered by many to be the luckiest day of the century. How ever you decide to spend your time today, we wish you lots of luck!

Gray Fox spotted in my backyard

I was quite surprised to find a Gray Fox ( Urocyon cinereoargenteus ) in my backyard yesterday evening. At first glance I thought it was my neighbor's cat. When I casually called out with a sort of kissing noise, it turned and looked right through me. This curious creature was grayish-black with beautiful orange eyes.

After some searching, I discovered the gray foxes diet consists of small mammals, insects, fruits, acorns, birds, and eggs. They are excellent mousers and possess expert climbing skills. I started to wonder, if he was hungry enough, would he go after my cat?

Unfortunately, I did not get a picture. Has anyone else spotted a gray fox running around flanders?

The Buzzzzzz on West Nile Virus

As summer kicks off with barbeques, picnics, camping trips, outdoor sporting events, carnivals, and trips to the jersey shore, better beware of what’s in the air.

Most Mom’s and Dad’s are already equipped with sunblock, bandaids, and bottled water, but what do you do about those pesky mosquitoes?

West Nile Virus is a microorganism spread by mosquitoes that could cause a fever, headache, nausea, or worse. Take a few moments to stop an apply an effective repellent. If you feel a bite or see a scratch, it’s time to re-apply or go inside. Always follow the directions and recommendations for the product you are using.

Prevention, Prevention, Prevention. Protect your home by installing window and door screens. Repair holes or tears in your existing screens.

Eliminate standing water. If they can’t breed, they won’t spread... as fast anyway. Do what you can to reduce the number of mosquitoes in areas outdoors where you work or play.

For more information on West Nile Virus visit the CDC Website and read
‘Fight the Bite’>>

Mount Olive Carnival and Community Weekend

July 26th - July 29th 2007 - Turkey Brook Park
Fireworks will begin at 9:30pm on Saturday 7/28 (rain date 7/29)

The Mount Olive Carnival will open Thursday, July 26th. The Community Weekend hours will be: Friday, 7/27 5pm until 8pm, or 11pm (your choice of end times! No vehicle movement between 8pm -11pm ), Saturday, 7/28 from 1pm until 8pm or 11pm (fireworks scheduled for 9:30pm) and Sunday, 7/29 from 1pm until 9pm (rain date for fireworks). This will be a terrific event to celebrate all the great organizations and neighbors that makes Mount Olive a great place to live!

Enjoy world famous rides, including bumper cars, carousel, giant slide, Starship 2000, and lots of kiddie rides. The carnival will have plenty of games for kids of all ages, like the water gun, skee ball, and whack-a-mole...all with great prizes. Live Music featuring over 15 bands.

Shuttle bus service will be available Sat and Sunday during carnival hours from the Tinc Road School and Mount Olive High School parking lots.

For additional information visit the Mount Olive Township website http://www.mtolivetwp.org/recreation.html or email recdept@mtolivetwp.org

Bingo, Bingo, Bingo!

BUDD LAKE, NEW JERSEY - Budd Lake Fire Department hosts Bingo every Sunday night at the Firehouse on Route 46 in Budd Lake. Doors open at 5:30pm and games start 7:00pm. Food and refreshments are available. Please come out and play to support your Volunteer Firefighters.