For a man who cites his hobbies as hanging out with the wife and kids, doing yard work and pulling weeds, Ned Overend is anything but ordinary.

After moving from San Diego to Durango, Colo., in 1980 to work as an auto mechanic, Overend quickly fell in love with the sport of bike racing. Within a few years he had earned the nickname “Deadly Nedly,” racking up a string of national and international mountain biking championships.

Overend will reveal what it takes to become king of the hill on Feb. 15, when he visits Marty’s Reliable Cycle in Randolph. He will hang out at the shop on 1164 Route 10 West for three hours. Admission is free.

“Ned was one of the best early riders in mountain bike racing and has continued to be a great competitor through the years,” says Marty Epstein, who also owns bike stores in Morristown and Hackettstown.

Although he is retired from the pro mountain bike circuit, Overend has not vanished from competitive events. A two-time national triathalon world champion, he currently serves as the Specialized cross country team captain while working closely with the company to develop, test, and promote its new gear.

“My role at Specialized has really evolved over the years; road (biking) is huge right now. Ours is a very competitive industry, and there are several categories growing all at once for the first time in years,” Overend, also known as “The Lung” for his incredible endurance, said in an interview with BikeRadar.com.

Simply put, Ned is a rider’s rider who loves to talk shop. And that is exactly what he will be doing at Marty’s this month. So bring your questions, kick some tires, and win prizes courtesy of Marty’s and Specialized Bikes.

Ned Overend in action:

Watch more video of Ned Overend on cyclingdirt.org

Ninety-seven acts wanted in, but only 16 made the final cut.

Tickets are $20-$75, with proceeds benefiting programs of the Morris School District. Call the Mayo Performing Arts Center at 973-539-8008 or visit the show website for tickets.

READ MORE ABOUT MORRISTOWN’S GOT TALENT 2012

COVERAGE OF MORRISTOWN’S GOT TALENT 2011

Hanna Neil, a sixth-grader from Frelinghuysen Middle School, will compete in the fifth annual Morristown's Got Talent! Photo by Kevin Coughlin

Have you ever seen someone make love to a violin?

Well, I have. And what beautiful music was created as a result!  Violinist extraordinaire David Garrett connected with his audience at the Mayo Performing Arts Center in a way that can only be described as intense.

David Garrett at the Mayo Performing Arts Center. Photo by Berit Ollestad

Concert-goers were treated Wednesday to a sensory overload of the eyes and ears, as this Brad Pitt look-alike delivered unique interpretations of some of the greatest songs of all time, ranging from Nirvana to Mozart, AC/DC to Beethoven.

Some may conclude after listening to Garrett perform on his 1716 Stradivarius that he is the rock star of classical music, taking pieces by artists such as Metallica, Queen and Michael Jackson to places they’ve never been.

Garrett has committed himself to introducing young people to the classics and kindling enthusiasm for reputedly “serious” music.

A standing ovation appeared to say: “Mission accomplished.”

Photos by Berit Ollestad. Please click icon below for captions.

This video from a prior concert gives a musical flavor of David Garrett’s show.

At 4:00 pm, the First Sundays concert series will be returning to the Church on the Green, featuring Duo Scorpio.  Harpists Kathryn Andrews and Kristi Shade play music for two harps by Boccherini, Massenet, Andres, Currier and Granados.  Duo Scorpio is a New York City based harp duo on a mission to expand the duo harp repertoire by commissioning new works and arranging existing repertoire. In 2011, the duo began searching for music for their newly formed ensemble and realized this particular part of the harp repertoire had yet to be fully explored in a contemporary setting.

Duo Scorpio was recently awarded the American Harp Society Grant which they have used to commission composer Robert Paterson. His work, “Scorpion Tales” will be premiered by Duo Scorpio at the AHS National Conference in New York City July 2012.  Duo Scorpio has performed with Florence + The Machine at the Met Gala, for Metro Harp New York and has performed together orchestrally in Carnegie Hall and Alice Tully Hall.  Coincidentally, Katie and Kristi were both born on November 5, 1982. They met in New York City where they received their Master’s degrees studying with Susan Jolles. They have embraced their Zodiac alignment by using their talent and passion to team up and form this unique duo.

To learn more about all of the exciting things going on at the Presbyterian Church in Morristown this weekend and beyond, you can visit our website, find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

The Commit To Change Yoga & Pilates Studio is moving into the former Gallery Egan on Community Place, studio owner Denise Haydu said on Wednesday.

“We’ll be open in May,” said Denise, whose studio has been on Lackawanna Place near Hennessey’s Washington Bar for about eight years. “I have a lot of children’s classes, and this is a better location for moms.”

Denise Haydu, owner of the Commit To Change Yoga & Pilates Studio, is moving the operation to the former Gallery Egan on Community Place. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

Community Place is off South Street, just a couple of short blocks from the Morristown Green. Denise’s new neighborhood includes the Dain Shoppe lingerie store, the Lauren B ladies boutique and assorted salons and cafés. Gallery Egan closed last spring.

“I loved it when it was an art gallery. It just has a good feeling here,” said Denise, as she conferred with her husband John and Kathleen D’Aloia of D’Aloia Designs.

Mirrors will cover a wall where giant murals formerly attracted art patrons to Friday night receptions. Plans call for a ballet barre, carpeting, new lighting and a new bathroom, and seating by the big front windows, which will be shaded. A glass wall toward the back of the main space will be relocated near the entrance, creating a long room where there had been two rooms before.

This actually is a homecoming of sorts for Denise, who had a basement studio at 50B South Street for years. The Morristown resident can’t wait to complete the renovations to her leased space at Community Place.

“More than 500 women go to the studio. This will be good for the neighborhood, good for these businesses,” she said.

Commit To Change is committed to fitness programs for mothers with young children. Denise practices what she preaches: She has a 21-month-old daughter named Somer and is expecting a baby boy next month.

But we really have just one thing to say.

GO, GIANTS!!!

To put you in the proper mood, here is a fight song from our buddy, Bill Griese:

THURSDAY, Feb. 2:

Oil by Raymond Sicignano entitled 'Ideal Hosiery,' on display at the Atrium Gallery.

It may feel like spring, but they’re going ahead with the Winter 2012 exhibit at the Atrium Gallery. The opening is from 6 pm to 8:30 pm on floors 2-5 at the Morris County Administration and Records Building, 10 Court St., Morristown. Eight artists will be display 181 artworks including photos, mobiles, multimedia abstracts, oils and “naive” style Romanian creations by Alex Chereches.  Admission: Free. For the opening,  parking also is free in the garage below the building, accessible via Schuyler Place.

Everyone is raving about the LEGO®  exhibition at the Morris Museum. Discover why by seeing more than 25 large LEGO sculptures by artist Nathan Sawaya, at 6 pm, at 6 Normandy Heights Road in Morris Township. Admission: $7-10.  Call  973-971-3700 for more.

What is Karma? What is Dharma?  Chew on these concepts at Food for Thought: An evening with Buddhist teacher Peter Kuczynski, from 7 – 9 pm at Zebu Forno, 9 South St.,
Morristown. Cost: $15 per person; $25 per couple, includes Soup, salad and sandwich. Call  973-538-0890 for more.

Tony Bennett’s 8 pm concert at the Mayo Performing Arts Center is sold out. But if you’re determined to duet with the legendary crooner, try calling the box office at 973-539-8008. Tickets are $85 to $150.

FRIDAY, Feb. 3:

Al Parrish made a name for himself as the “burly red-haired wildman bass player” of Tanglefoot. At 8 pm he dusts off his guitar, and his yarns, at the Minstrel in Morris Township. Michael Prysock gets the show going at the Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, 21 Normandy Heights Road. Admission: Adults $7, children 12 and under are free. Call  973-335-9489 for more.

Only one artist has won Grammys for Classical and Jazz recordings: Paquito D’Rivera. The Cuban-born saxophonist and clarinetist brings his diverse act to the Mayo Performing Arts Center at 8 pm. Tickets: $37-$67. Call 973-539-8008 for more.

It’s Open Mic Night at Zebu Forno, 8 pm at 9 South St. in Morristown. If there’s a song in your heart, send it to your vocal cords!

Morristown’s ambassadors of friendly hip hop, Universal Rebel, light up Morristown’s Dublin Pub at 10 pm. Admission to the establishment at 4 Pine St. is free.

Universal Rebel comes to the Dublin Pub on Friday. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

SATURDAY, Feb. 4:

A photo scavenger hunt promises family fun from 9 am to 4:30 pm at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum,  at 353 East Hanover Ave. in Whippany. The cost is $10 per family; photograph every item and win prizes. Meet at the Haggerty Education Center; call 973-326-7600 for more details. Also offered on Sunday, same times.

And while you’re scavenging, take a break–a tea break–at the Arboretum from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. It’s the annual Matilda’s Tea, named for Matilda Frelinghuysen, who once lived at Whippany Farm, as the Arboretum formerly was known.  “What is a high tea and what other kinds of beverages might [Matilda] have imbibed? What kind of spices warm up a cold February table? Learn to pour, fold fancy napkins, and enjoy delicious tea sandwiches and treats both savory and sweet. All young tea-takers will make several different kinds of party favors to use in their own tea parties at home,” says the Morris County Parks Commission. Recommended for age 6 and up. The event at 353 E. Hanover Ave. in Morris Township is $25 for adults, $30 for children. Call 973-326-7601

John McEuen of Nitty Gritty Dirt Band fame joins Italian guitar virtuoso Beppe Gambetta at 8 pm at the Sanctuary concert series in Chatham. Tickets are $25. The Sanctuary is at the Presbyterian Church on Green Village Road. Call 973-376-4946 for more.

DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH? Super Diamond brings its Neil Diamond tribute show to the Mayo Performing Arts Center at 8 pm. Tickets are $32 to $52. Call 973-539-8008 for information.

SUNDAY, Feb. 5:

Have a whale of a good time with Oh, Jonah!, an Allan Pote musical performed by the children’s choirs of the Presbyterian Church in Morristown. Showtime is 10 am, admission is free. At 57 Park Place (on the Green). Call  973-538-1776 for more.

Feeling guilty about all the bad stuff you’re going to eat and drink during the Super Bowl?  Make some Giant strides in Morristown’s first Super Sunday 4 Miler, at 11:30 am on Maple Avenue. Registration is $30 in advance, and $35 on race day.

PREGAME SHOW: 'Romeo and Juliet' comes to the Mayo Performing Arts Center at 3 pm on Super Sunday.

Enjoy a Winter’s Day on the Farm from noon to 4 pm at Fosterfields Living Historical Farm, 73 Kahdena Road, Morris Township. Wagon rides, maple-tapping, wood stove cooking, and more. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors (65+), $4 for children ages 4 – 16, and $2 for children ages 2 and 3. FREE for children under age 2 and Friends members with a valid membership I.D. Call 973-326-7644 for more.

Celebrate the Chinese Year of the Dragon with a real (almost) dragon, crafts, stories and more, at 2 pm at the Museum of Early Trades & Crafts, 9 Main St., Madison. Cost: $3 for all participants and regular admission for all others. Call 973-377-2982 x 12 for more.

Bard’s language + modern staging = Romeo and Juliet by the Classical Theatre Project of Toronto, 3 pm at Morristown’s Mayo Performing Arts Center on 100 South St. All seats: $20. Call 973-539-8008 for details.

Speaking of Shakespeare…you can enjoy the soothing sounds of multiple harps without shuffling off your mortal coil. Duo Scorpio gives a free concert at 4 pm at the Presbyterian Church in Morristown, 57 Park Place. Nothing quite says “Super Bowl” to us like two attractive young ladies with harps of gold.

At 6 pm it’s time for your weekly Open Drawing Session at Zebu Forno, 9 South St., Morristown. Three hours of live models, friendly instruction and pizza cost just $10. Bring your own art supplies; Chris and Danielle Merzatta provide the rest. Call 770-853-9727 for more information. Zebu has TVs, so you can cheer for the Giants while you sketch.

There's nothing like harp music to get us fired up for football! Duo Scorpio-- Kathryn Andrews and Kristi Shade-- precede the Giants' Super Bowl game with a free 4 pm concert on Feb. 5 at the Presbyterian Church in Morristown.

But the most compelling argument may involve the bottom line: It costs New Jersey taxpayers $160 a day to keep someone in prison, vs. about $12 to support them on parole, according to Robert Kantor, a hearing officer with the New Jersey State Parole Board.

Robert spoke in Morristown at Tuesday’s meeting of the Morris/Sussex/Warren Re-entry Task Force, a group of social workers dedicated to helping ex-convicts, nonviolent drug offenders and people with mental health issues become productive citizens.

“It’s a much wiser use of resources, a much more effective use of money, rather than just priming the pipeline for the prison management industry, why not have the money filter to the community where it belongs,” said Mark Wolkoff, a spokesman for the task force, one of 13 such groups across the state.

Please click icon below for captions.

Social workers attending the session at the County College of Morris offices in Morristown described a deck that is stacked against former offenders seeking a second chance.

In this economy, they said, it’s tougher than ever to persuade businesses to hire someone with a criminal record. People released from jail often have no clue about how to create a résumé and cover letter. Accepting a low-paying job, meanwhile, may jeopardize government benefits such as housing subsidies that keep parolees off the streets.

As welfare, food stamps and other benefits expire, ex-offenders without job prospects face stark choices, said Sonja Welch of Morristown’s Market Street Mission. It’s especially daunting for older clients.

“Where do they go?” Sonja asked.

Some positive changes are on the horizon, Robert Kantor said.

A pending state law would prohibit employers from automatically denying employment because an applicant is an ex-offender, he said.  Another bill would enable people with criminal records to work in establishments where liquor is served, as long as they don’t serve liquor.

“That’s a big [potential] source of income for people working as parolees, working in banquet halls,” Robert said.

Another policy, known as presumptive parole, automatically paroles non-violent drug offenders at their earliest eligibility if they behave in jail, he said. The challenge is preparing them for  re-entry.

An organization called Prevention Is Key had been mentoring children of imprisoned parents, with the aim of breaking the cycle of crime. But Barbara Kaufman said the federal government stopped funding that three-year mentoring program after only one year, for budgetary reasons.

Robert Kantor of the New Jersey State Parole Board addresses the MSW Reentry Task Force. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

Asserting that 80 percent of crimes are drug-related, Robert  urged more efforts to warn school children about the dangers of drugs and crime.

“It really easy to get into the [criminal] system, and really hard to get out,” he said.

Anyone with outstanding warrants can resolve matters swiftly between April 21-25 at the Grace Assembly of God Baptist Church in Atlantic City, Robert said. It’s not amnesty. But state officials will be there to expedite hearings in a special court that can dispose of warrants ranging from criminal cases to child support and traffic violations. It’s a way to get out from under the constant fear of being hauled to jail because of outstanding warrants, he said.

As for the task force, Mark Wolkoff said goals include pairing job- and life-coaches with ex-offenders take necessary  “baby steps” to re-enter society.

Another priority is finding a new home for Hospitality Link, a weekday shelter for the homeless and working poor that closed last year at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Morristown. Hospitality Link provided job-hunting resources such as computer access, a telephone and a mailing address.

The local task force also plans to work closely with the new Governor’s Task Force on Recidivism Reduction, Mark said.

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The Mayo Performing Arts Center was packed last year, and chances are the same will hold true for the fifth anniversary show, hosted by local comedian John Mruz on Feb. 29.

Tickets are $20 to $75 and proceeds benefit the Morris School District through the Morris Educational Foundation. Ninety-seven acts tossed their hats in the ring; 16 finalists emerged. They are vying for local glory and a top prize of $1,000.

If there is a sentimental favorite, it must be Timeless Jazz, an ensemble striving to repeat its victory in the very first MGT contest. But the competition will be formidable; this lineup offers something for everyone.

Danny Dones (third appearance), Ricky Webber (who won second place with his prior band, Boys Night Out), Joey Gatto and Jasmin Serrano all have been here before and know what it takes to shine. And there are some great newcomers, too.

The act will be judged by:

• Bruce Moran, president of the Latin American Division of Live Nation, the world’s largest live music company.
• Ed Kirchdoerffer, general manager of the Mayo Performing Arts Center.
• David Hess, an award-winning actor whose Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include Sweeney Todd and Annie Get Your Gun.
• Ben Elliot, music producer and engineer and chief engineer and co-owner of Showplace Studios, who has worked with many top artists and bands in rock, blues and jazz genres.

Stay tuned for video previews.

Tickets are available from the Mayo box office, 973-539-8008.

MORE ABOUT MORRISTOWN’S GOT TALENT 2012

MORRISTOWN’S GOT TALENT 2011

CAN THEY REPEAT? Timeless Jazz, winners of the first Morristown's Got Talent! contest, will try to win the fifth anniversary prize. From left: Ben Burgess, Isabel Rogers, Stephen Ferm, Gus Bacas, Peter Bacas, Ryan Gallagher and Danny Reardon. Photo by Bill Lescohier

The finalists for the 2012 Morristown's Got Talent! show. Photo by Bill Lescohier

Don’t forget, Mahoniacs, you can read Joe Mahoney every day at JoeMahoneyComics.com

Please click to enlarge

By Matt Keown

Joe Mahoney is about a powerful and driven CEO struggling to groom his free-spirit son to someday take over the family business. Matt believes in Mahonifest Destiny, which is the view that all literate Americans from sea to shining sea should read Joe Mahoney every week. He brings this comic to MG with hopes of converting the good citizens of Morristown into Mahoniacs.

Back in December, Zaji Zabalerio introduced us to the trials and tribulations of Elliot Baxter, a “smart but socially awkward student” played by Morristown High School junior Rob Carroll.

Elliot is back in webisode 2, which features guest appearances by Vice Principal Mike Bruchac and English teacher George LaVigne.

And once again, you can vote on where the action leads next.

Keep ‘em coming, Zaji!

MORE ON MHS FILMMAKER ZAJI ZABALERIO

Morristown High School junior Rob Carroll and Vice Principal Mike Bruchac in a scene from 'Elliot Baxter,' a web series by junior Zaji Zabalerio.

The first of eight presentations deals with…presentation: How to dress for success and communicate effectively when pursuing a job.

Subsequent sessions through April 4 will cover mock crime-scene investigations, search warrants, canine explosives detection training, and more. A career development certificate will be presented to those who attend five required lectures.

All talks start at 6 pm at the Morris County Public Safety Academy on West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany. To register, call the County College of Morris at 973-328-5245.

The Morristown-based association also will continue its partnership with Legal Services of Northwest New Jersey, said the attorney from Parsippany. Here is the formal announcement.

FROM THE MORRIS COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION:

Morris County Bar President Announced as Year of Service

Parsippany attorney, Allan J. Iskra was installed as President of the 1100 member Morris County Bar Association at a dinner held in his honor at the Meadow Woods Manor in Randolph on January 19, 2012. Assignment Judge Thomas Weisenbeck administered the oath of office to Mr. Iskra and the other members of the Morris County Bar Association Board of Trustees.

Allan J. Iskra is sworn in as president of the Morris County Bar Association by Superior Court Assignment Judge Thomas Weisenbeck, as Allana Iskra watches. Photo courtesy of the Morris County Bar Association.

Allan Iskra has served as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Morris County Bar Association and in every leadership position of the Board as well as having served as President of the Morris County Bar Foundation. He served as the Chair of the District X Fee Arbitration Committee 2006-2007. Mr. Iskra has served on the Board of Trustees for many non-profit organizations and is presently a Member of the Board of Trustees of Legal Services of Northwest Jersey Inc. He is an adjunct Professor at The County College of Morris and has lectured elsewhere on numerous topics. Mr. Iskra is a graduate of St Louis University School of Law and practices law in Parsippany, New Jersey at Schonwald & Iskra. He served as a Morris County Assistant Prosecutor for seven years. He had previously served as a Somerset County Assistant Prosecutor for two and a half years and a Passaic County Assistant Prosecutor for five years. He was the recipient of the Equal Justice Award, presented by Legal Aid Services and the New Jersey State Bar Association in May, 2008.

Brian Fruehling, past president of the Morris County Bar Association, with new President Allan J. Iskra and Justice Anne M. Patterson. Photo courtesy of the Morris County Bar Association

Mr. Iskra announced a year of service to his colleagues at the Installation Dinner. The year will include outreach to the Hispanic Community, service to the self represented litigants in the Family Law Division of the Morris County Superior Court and continued partnership with Legal Services of Northwest New Jersey.

The following attorneys will also serve on the Morris County Bar Association’s Board of Trustees: Mark Wechsler, President Elect; John P. Robertson, II, First-Vice President; Diana C. Manning, Second Vice-Presidentl Robin C. Bogan, Treasurer; Patrick Galligan, Secretary; and Brian J. Fruehling, Immediate Past President and Trustees, Joseph Cadicina, Christopher Garibian; Stephanie Frangos Hagan, Julian L. Hill, Kurt Krauss, Devanshu Modi, James Porfido, Patricia Roche, Jane Simpson, John Paul Velez, Jennifer McAndrew Vuotto, Linda Mainenti Walsh, Timothy Ford and Melissa Ruvolo, Young Lawyer Co-Chairs and William Krais (N.J. State Bar Trustee).

Established in 1900, the Morris County Bar Association’s membership is comprised of 1100 Morris County attorneys and judges. The objectives of the organization are to maintain the honor and dignity of the profession of law; to promote an understanding of the law and its application in society; to foster the due administration of justice; and to promote the capacity of the Bar for public service; and to support the objectives and goals of its charitable “arm,” the Morris County Bar Foundation.

Morris County Bar Association trustees for 2012 are sworn in. Hon. Thomas Weisenbeck, A.J.S.C., Morris County, Brian Fruehling, Jennifer Vuotto, Jane Simpson, Patricia Roche, Melissa Ruvolo, Diana Manning, back row, Mark Wechsler, Allan Iskra, John Robertson, and Executive Director Nancy Bangiola. Photo courtesy of the Morris County Bar Association.

Congratulations to them, and to Homeless Solutions. Here are biographies of the new trustees, from the nonprofit.

FROM HOMELESS SOLUTIONS INC.:

Homeless Solutions Welcomes Three New Board Members

Sally Muscarella currently owns a consulting company, Interactive Media Associates, Inc.  She is the former CEO and owner of Imedia inc., a digital marketing agency.  Sally spent 21 years at AT&T, serving as a Planning and Product Management VP and in operations, marketing and customer service positions. She received an MBA from The Wharton School and a BA from Simmons College.  Sally has served as Warden for St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in and is active in a variety of community organizations.  She currently resides in Morristown and has two daughters, Anne and Nicole.

James Fleischmann is a semi-retired Financial Professional who spent his career in Portfolio Management & Investment Analysis. Jim was most recently Head of Domestic Equities for TIAA-CREF and prior to that, worked at Salomon Brothers.   He holds an MBA from Penn State, a BA from the University of Pittsburgh and served in the US Coast Guard. Jim serves on the Finance Committee of the Summit Area YMCA. Jim and his wife, Lynn Rogerson, reside in Summit.

George “Buddy” Scott is a Managing Director & Head of Strategy & Corporate Development for Prudential International Investments.  Prior to this, he was a Vice President at Deutsche Banc Alex Brown in a Private Equity Division focused on early stage venture capital investments. Buddy began his career at Ernst & Young where he provided a broad range of professional services to clients primarily in the capital markets and banking industries.  Buddy received a BS from Rutgers University and an MBA from New York University and is also a CPA.  He currently resides in Morristown with his wife Karen and their three children.

Sally Muscarella, right, with fellow St. Peter's parishioner Kay Failla at a memorial event for Kay's daughter last December. Sally has joined the board of Homeless Solutions Inc. Photo by Sharon Sheridan for MorristownGreen.com

Luckily, Sebastian has his very own reading coach.

Her name is Sarah Bechtel, one of 17 students from the College of Saint Elizabeth who are volunteering as tutors in a new program called SOAR.

For the next 12 weeks, Sarah and her classmates will spend two afternoons a week giving one-to-one tutoring in math and literacy to Morristown 5th graders, to help prepare them for middle school next year.

Please click icon below for captions.

SOAR stands for Student Outreach and Academic Reinforcement Tutoring, a partnership between the Morris School District and the college that was forged by Pastor Sidney Williams Jr. of Morristown’s Bethel AME Church and his wife, Teresa Williams, executive director of a new nonprofit, the Spring Street Community Development Corp.

“He’s the initiator and I’m the completer,” Teresa said with a laugh.

The tutoring will occur next to the church in a building the corporation has leased from the town of Morristown. SOAR is part of a CDC operation called the Family Success Center. On Monday evenings, the 5th graders and their parents will be required to attend a dinner where relationships and family issues crucial to education will be discussed.

“You can do all the tutoring you want. But if the family’s not involved, that’s not a good thing,” said Teresa, who expects SOAR to be a “win-win for everyone.”

Morris Schools Superintendent Thomas Ficarra attended Monday’s program kickoff and invited the Saint Elizabeth students to pursue education careers in the district. Tutoring “shows you care, and have experience with children,” he said.

The superintendent also praised Pastor Williams for putting together a program “that harkens back to the phrase, ‘It takes a village’ . . .  If the kids receive the tutoring and homework help that’s planned, this can’t help but be a success.”

College of Saint Elizabeth students Nkiruka Ogbozor, Meagan Aguayo and Njeri Johnson with George, a Morristown 5th grader who will be tutored in a new program at the Spring Street Community Development Corp. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

Fifth graders in SOAR are kids who “need a boost,” said Andy Williams, K-5 curriculum director for the Morris district. Along with textbooks, he dispensed some guidance to the Saint Elizabeth recruits: Speak like academics to the 5th graders. No buddy stuff. No Facebook friending. Keep it formal. And talk up the college experience. Let the kids know it’s within reach.

“That’s where you want them to be,” said Andy, a native of Liverpool, England, who was the first member of his family to attend college.

Teachers from the district will stop by on a regular basis to work with the tutors, he added. These 5th graders also receive tutoring at their schools. And SOAR will offer Saturday sessions for kids who miss their weekday tutoring.

The youngsters’ progress in school will be monitored to gauge SOAR’s impact, said Pastor Williams, who doubled as a van driver on Monday to transport the tutors from their Madison campus.  SOAR has a $2,800 grant from Family to Family, an organization that promotes better communication between parents and children, said the Pastor. The church will cover any additional costs, he said.

After a round of introductions, the 5th graders randomly chose their tutors by picking numbers.

For their efforts, some of the Saint Elizabeth students will be paid through the school’s work-study program. Others are volunteering for academic credit, said Nanette Spedden, director of the Center for Volunteerism and Service Learning at college.

The young ladies come from diverse backgrounds. For Nesha Hampton, a business major, tutoring will be a new experience. “It’s scary!” she said.

Zakiya Stewart, a sophomore studying food nutrition, already has spent time helping her younger brother with his homework. “He wasn’t easy to tutor,” she said. “It taught me the virtue of patience.”

Freshman Nkiruka Ogbozor agreed that patience is the key; she learned that lesson working in summer camps.

“You can’t do this for the money. You have to be here because you like to do this,” said Njeri Johnson, a freshman who plans to major in math with a  minor in education.  She has tutored 7th- and 8th graders.

“It’s hard at first. But it gets easier,” Njeri said. “You have to set a boundary when you meet them. We’re close to their age. But we’re the tutors and they’re the students.”

As for sophomore Sarah Bechtel, she looks forward to “trying something new” and tasting life as an English teacher.

She will be tested by her very first pupil.

“At the end of this program I want to read at least a year ahead of my class,” said Sebastian.

Students from the College of Saint Elizabeth prepare to serve as tutors in a new 12-week program at the new Family Success Center in Morristown. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

Welcome to another episode from Morristown cartoonist Paul Laud.

This week: Go, NJ Giants!

Paul Laud is the author of ‘Laughing Out Laud, Tripping Over Party Lines’!

And check out our podcast with Paul.

Please click to enlarge

By Paul Laud

Yet it’s part of the job if you’re a doctor in the field of pediatrics. Goryeb Children’s Hospital at the Morristown Medical Center has started an innovative program to help young doctors improve their bedside manner.

Breaking Bad News is a role-playing exercise involving actors from the Chatham Players. They portray parents receiving grim diagnoses about their children from doctors at the hospital.

The scenarios feel painfully real, as you can see in this video.

PAINFUL SCENE: Actors Kevin Bohl and Leslie Reagoso portrayed parents of a gravely ill basketball player during doctor training exercise at Morristown's Goryeb Children's Hospital. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

Sessions are videotaped and doctors’ performances are critiqued by a team led by Dr. Anthony Orsini, a neonatologist. Doctors Colin O’Reilly and Sunitha Sara John assisted him at recent sessions.

“It’s important to come across as someone who is knowledgeable about the problem, someone who knows how to help with the problem, and someone who cares,” explained Dr. Orsini.

There is no textbook approach; every situation is unique, added Dr. O’Reilly. “It’s an art form,” he said.

We watched a second-year resident, Dr. Christine Seminara, deliver stark news to parents played by actors Leslie Reagoso and Kevin Bohl.  The session was coordinated by Bleu Moon, an advertising agency from Butler.

The actors gave intense performances that made everyone in the room quickly forget that this was make-believe. Dr. Seminara held herself together better than we would have done, though she acknowledged it was not easy.

“I have to say that when I left the room, I started tearing as well,” she said. “I think it’s important for patients to have a doctor that’s in control of the situation and is empathetic, but is not fully taken away by emotions. But I can’t say that I don’t feel it just like they do.”

KEEPING IT REAL: Dr. Christine Seminara, right, a second-year resident at Morristown's Goryeb Children's Hospital, delivers bad news to parents portrayed by actors Kevin Bohl and Leslie Reagoso in a training exercise. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

Thomas Nast was one of America’s most influential political cartoonists. But he had a softer side, too, and it will be on display in Morristown just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Throughout February, the Macculloch Hall Historical Museum will be offering viewers a rare chance to see Nast’s original engraving entitled St. Valentine’s-Day.  First published on the cover of the weekly Hearth and Home: For the Farm, Garden, And Fireside in 1869, Nast’s engraving depicts a little girl, modeled after Nast’s own daughter Julia, reading her Valentine’s Day cards.

Self-portrait by famed illustrator Thomas Nast, via Wikimedia.org

Best known for his political cartoons and contributions to Harper’s Weekly during the second half of the 19th century, Thomas Nast has been credited with creating the Republican and Democratic parties’ iconic mascots, the elephant and donkey, as well as Uncle Sam, and our modern day version of Santa Claus.

Featured in more than 65 periodicals, Nast’s drawings helped bring down Boss Tweed, the corrupt New York City commissioner of public works. They also contributed to the rise of our 18th president, Ulysses S. Grant, whom Nast called a close friend.

More than a century after his death, Nast remains controversial: The Star-Ledger reports that the former Morristown resident failed to make the cut for the New Jersey Hall of Fame for the third straight year.

Some politicians and Irish groups have opposed inducting Nast because of cartoons that were anti-Irish and anti-Catholic, though Nast’s defenders say his beef was with Irish supporters of New York’s Tammany Hall political machine.

Nast moved to Morristown in 1872 Nast and toured the United States as a lecturer and sketch-artist until his death in 1902.

In addition to Nast’s St. Valentine’s-Day piece, the Macculloch Hall Historical Society will be displaying The Original Thomas Nast, an exhibit showcasing rarely seen oil paintings and copper engravings by Nast. They display a side of Nast that has largely gone unrecognized until now, according to the museum.

The Macculloch Hall Historical Museum is in Morristown’s National Historic District at 45 Macculloch Ave. and is open to the public on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.  Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for Seniors and Students, $4 for children 6-12, and free for Members and children under 5.  For more details call 973-538-2404 or visit maccullochhall.org.

Eastern screech owls, peregrine falcons and bog turtles aren’t necessarily the first images that come to mind when one thinks of New Jersey. Yet the state is rich in wildlife

“It’s important that we educate people on how to address issues that go along with the various wildlife that we share our state with; especially in situations where the wildlife has been injured or sick,” Lauren Butcher, educational director of the Raptor Trust in Millington, told visitors to Morristown town hall earlier this month.

She was among several experts invited by the town health department to explain some do’s and don’ts of caring for sick and injured animals.

“Far too often people have good intentions, but they do more harm than good when they try and assist an injured bird or raccoon,” Lauren said.

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A number of interesting points were raised. For instance,  a wild animal has its best shot at survival if it can remain with its mother while convalescing. And contrary to popular beliefs, animal mothers won’t necessarily abandon their young if they smell a human scent. However, it is important to warm up a baby critter if it’s cold to the touch; the mother will not care for the infant if the body temperature drops.

Here’s something else to think twice about when that pesky squirrel is hovering around your bird-feeder: It’s illegal to relocate wildlife in the state of New Jersey from its place of origin to a park or a neighbor’s yard. This only compounds the problem and creates an issue elsewhere.

Have you ever asked yourself,  “Why did the turtle cross the road?” The answer is simple: To get to the other side. Although, it may be tempting to try and pursuade the turtle to reconsider and turn around, that really isn’t a good idea, because it only will repeat the futile attempt.

For reasons unknown, turtles are determined to reach the other side. The kindest thing you can do is help them along and make sure they cross safely. Don’t lift a turtle by the tail–that will break its back. Try using an old towel or piece of cardboard or wood to direct the terrapin in the right direction.

The presentation was informative, engaging and most of all, fun.  Should you ever wonder what is the appropriate action when confronted with sick or injured wildlife, call a local wildlife agency or call the folks at town hall. If you are feeling unsafe or threatened, dial 911 for the local police. Don’t ever be fooled into thinking animals won’t bite or scratch if given the chance. After all, that’s why they are called “wild animals.”

Lauren Butcher, education director at The Raptor Trust, with Silvey at presentation in Morristown.. Photo by Berit Ollestad

But 30 Schuyler Place has other advantages over CCM’s prior location at Headquarters Plaza. Four hundred thousand reasons.  As in $400,000, the amount the college expects to save annually by using the second floor of the Morris County Administration Annex Building.

“I like this space better,”  Charles Lamb, CCM’s site director, said Friday at an open house where he gave three more reasons:

Location, location, location.

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Schuyler Place is closer to the county administration building, where one-third of the school’s budget originates,  and to  the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, which gives presentations at CCM for people considering law enforcement careers.

There also is free parking for students and faculty in the Ann Street garage, along with savings on utilities and a $1 lease.

Formerly home to a  commercial title company, the Schuyler Place location has 5,000 square feet that include  six classrooms with broadband. Courses in a wide range of subjects are taught at night. During daytime, noncredit courses in English-as-a-second-language are there, along with seminars and workshops by SCORE, an organization that helps entrepreneurs. Others interested in using the facility should contact Charles at 973-328-5532.

Although the ribbon-cutting was on Friday, classes actually started at Schuyler Place last semester.  The two-year college is based in Randolph and opened its Morristown satellite in 1992 at HQ Plaza.  CCM’s emphasis in Morristown is providing higher education courses and professional development training in information technology, health care, business and English proficiency, according to the school.

Our thanks to Mariah Seminara of Life in Motion Photography for sharing her excellent photos.

Morris County Freeholder Director Gene Feyl, Freeholders Margaret Nordstrom and Ann Grossi, CCM Chairman Jeffrey Advokat and CCM President Ed Yaw cut the ribbon for new CCM Morristown branch at 30 Schuyler Place. Photo courtesy of County College of Morris/ Mariah Seminara

The Morris School District has scheduled a special meeting on Feb. 6 to discuss the option. It’s set for 7 pm at the Lafayette Learning Center, according to a district spokesperson.

Under a bill signed by Gov. Christie earlier this month, school elections moved to November would NOT include a public vote on the school budget if the budget falls within the state’s 2 percent cap on tax increases.

Districts can move school elections to November by a resolution of the school board, or by seeking public approval, according to The Star-Ledger.