Chatham news may 2016 by My Life Publications..Maljon LLC

No. 2 Vol. 5

mypaperonline.com

May 2016

Organizations In Chatham Bridge Gap To Help Feed Homeless

By Jason Cohen acilitated through Bridges Outreach, a homeless advocacy organization based in Summit, students from Chatham High School and members of the Presbyterian Church of Chatham Township (PCCT) helped feed the homeless in April. On April 2, Chatham High School’s Fear the Gear robotics squad teamed with up its Columbia High School counterpart and Stanley Congregational Church members in Irvington’s Civic Square to make more than 120 brown bag lunches for the homeless. The supplies were donated by both teams and Stanley Church members. Kindergartners from Summit’s Central Presbyterian Church provided an additional 70 lunches. Lucy Malatesta and her son, Paul, 17, a member of the robotics team, have been attending Bridges charity runs for more than a decade. “I would say the most powerful thing is when one of them [a homeless person] says ‘God bless you’ because you know they actually mean it,” Paul said. When Lucy asked Paul about putting on a robotics show at the run, he and his teammates embraced the idea. They had the robots fight, which caused a few homeless people to want to take bets, Paul noted. After lunch it was nice to schmooze and interact with them, Lucy explained. “Most homeless people just want someone to talk to,” she said. She reminisced how in 2011 Paul came in old jeans and sneakers to feed the homeless and one man said to him, “Where’s your mother?” The homeless man told Lucy he has a 13-room mansion with several bathrooms called Penn

Station. Looking back on the work that her son and his friends do, she commented that kids in Chatham truly want to help other people. “I usually don’t feel bad, I usually feel joy,” Lucy said about her emotional state when feeding the homeless. On April 8, volunteers from the PCCT made more than 200 sack lunches for the homeless that were delivered that evening to the homeless in New York City. The church participates in the events like this four times a year through Bridges. Founded in 1988, Bridges’ vision is to eliminate the social and economic divides between the housed and the homeless. It serves the homeless in New York City, Newark, Irvington and Summit every

week. Each year, more than 2,000 volunteers from churches, corporations and other organizations help deliver 65,000 meals, seasonal clothing and necessities. Lois Bhatt, who has been

the executive director of Bridges for 13 years, echoes the Malatesta’s sentiment that as much as homeless people need food, it’s the interaction with other people they crave.

“Whenever you go out on the street and you meet homeless people they are warm and friendly,” Bhatt said. “It’s always nice if you share a part of yourself with them.”

Chatham Twp. Committee To Host Suicide Awareness Prevention Presentation

he Chatham Township Committee, in its continuing efforts to raise awareness of suicide prevention, plans to host a community-based presentation, “Talk Saves Lives,” in conjunction with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), on Thurs., June 2 at 6:30 p.m., at the Chatham Township Municipal Building. Individuals interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP to Mayor Curt Ritter at Mayor@chathamtownship-nj.gov. Mayor Curt Ritter said, “Earlier this year, we heard statistics from the School District of the Chathams in which four percent of middle school students and eight percent of high school students have thought about suicide. Suicide is preventable, and while it’s not a topic that is often dis-

cussed, I hope this presentation will help shed light on this important issue. We know that suicide does not discriminate, and I encourage all residents to take one hour of their time to attend this important presentation to learn how together we can help prevent suicide.” Ritter continued, “In addition, in our continuing effort to increase awareness of this important issue, this September 24, we will host the first annual ‘Out of the Darkness Walk’ at the Chatham High School to help increase awareness of suicide prevention. Individuals interested in participating or volunteering can visit http://bit.ly/1SLTlEe or contact me directly.” continued one page 8

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Chatham Trio Warms The Hearts Of Seniors In Last Performance

By Cheryl Conway hether they clapped their hands, sang along, smiled or even took a nap- the senior citizen residents at Garden Terrace Nursing Home have enjoyed the performances by a Chatham trio the past three years. The Dreamers- three seniors from Chatham- gave their final performance on Sat., May 14, at 2:30 p.m., singing their “big hits” and favorite songs. With a busy summer ahead and preparation for college, the three band members are grateful that they were able to share their love for music with others. Established their sophomore year in 2013, The Dreamers performed a variety of songs highlighting holiday themes and seasons, six to eight times each year. They would visit the senior center, usually on Saturdays, around 2 p.m. “when they are more awake” and stay for thirty minutes to an hour depending on how many performances they do during the visit, says Billy Conlan of Chatham Borough. “It’s been so rewarding to see how much they enjoy it,” says Conlan, organizer of the trio. “Music really unites people; I feel like it makes you happier. Us being young brings this positive energy to people.” The nursing home asked if they could perform on the last day of Nursing Home Week as a highlight to close the week, which is May 8 -14, says Billy’s mom, Maria Con-

lan. “They have helped make the seniors at Garden Terrace so happy and have brought them such joy when they have performed their music over the years,” she says. During his second year of high school, “I kind of wanted to get more involved; wanted to volunteer in the community,” explains her son. “My mom said, ‘why don’t you sing at nursing homes?’” So he thought of his friend, Kristen Marqueen, who has been playing the piano since she was seven. Friends since attending kindergarten together at Milton Avenue Elementary School, he says, “Kristen and I are childhood friends; one of those relationships I’ve always had.” Marqueen asked their friend, Kate Weins, to join their group as she plays guitar and sings soprano II. Marqueen and Weins attend Chatham High School while Conlan attends Gill St. Bernard in Gladstone. “We do all kinds of music,” says Conlan, Disney, pop, rock, Elvis Presley and the Beetles. “We’ve done everything. We probably prefer oldies like the Beetles. They really like America songs, “The National Anthem. “It’s really fun; we go over my house; we make a list of songs. The seniors really appreciate it. One senior always says how great we are; it’s really rewarding.” Conlan says “One of our favorite concerts or performances is the winter concert with the Christmas songs. It’s

one holiday where everyone knows the songs. We gave out the jingle bells and we wear Santa hats.” They sing anywhere from 15 to 25 songs, either as solos and a trio. His favorite, “Here Comes The Sun,” lights up the room to a crowd of 15 to 25 seniors. “We actually came up with the name because when we came to perform at first, a lot of the older folks slept while we performed,” says Conlan. “Now, times have definitely changed but the name stuck!” Conlan says they had tried to perform at other nursing continued on page 8

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Pioneer For Battered Women’s Shelter Finds Creative Ways To Carry On Her Mission

By Cheryl Conway any more have heard her cries for help, and although wonderful, the need in affording a storage place to house all of the generous furniture donations is that much greater. Founder and Director Sandra Ramos of Strengthen Our Sisters (SOS) has found a vacant store at 1621 Hamburg Turnpike in Wayne and has a vision of opening a store

there to keep all of the furniture donations much needed by the women she shelters through her organization. The 6,000 square foot space used to be a florist shop, she says. “It’s a great location; has a lot of room; it’s long,” says Ramos of Ringwood. “We get so much stuff that we have to turn it down. We have nowhere to keep it.” Since her call for help a few months

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ago seeking contributors to help pay for the mortgage at a lower interest rate to keep SOS afloat, Ramos has received close to 30 calls from people who have furniture donations. “Some of it we took,” she says. If donations continue to come in, Ramos says “we could sell it” at the store and help support SOS. Established in 1977 as Shelter Our Sisters - the first shelter for battered women in North America- the community-based non-profit organization changed its name to Strengthen Our Sisters and has since grown to eight houses, two day care centers, a food pantry and a thrift store. Through SOS, Ramos provides housing for 155 women and children in shelters located in New Foundland, Wanaque and West Milford. The store in Wayne would be rented to her for $5,000 per month, she says. With ideas already sprouting, she has creative ways to use the space in addition to furniture storage. She was thinking it could be used as a jazz café to feature some students who

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perform; or even as a craft store, as a place for the women in her shelter to show off their many talents such as artistic ability and sell items for profit. “We have so many women with talents who are living poverty stricken,” says Ramos. “We have women who are artistic. They can make dolls and pictures, handmade clothes and ceramics.” One of her houses is for older women and “they owned businesses,” she says. “We want to be economically independent rather than dependent,” she adds. “The women can become economically sufficient.” Ramos’ experience in working 15 years as a waitress in a jazz place, Mikell’s in NY, can now come into play if her plans carry to fruition. For those who would like to help by either continuing to donate furniture, as well as money to offset the mortgage, or who has an idea for a better and yet more affordable store location, call Ramos at 973-831-6156.

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Raised In the Business, Siblings Offer Best Perks At Berk’s Furniture

By Cheryl Conway or those who don’t know, there is a furniture store in the near vicinity that not only provides quality but affordability. With roots that date back to 1943, Berk’s Furniture & Mattress in Hackettstown provides the best in brand name furniture all at a discounted price. With 22,000 square feet of space, the store features “a huge mattress department,” as well as a brand new reclining gallery. Why travel east, to other parts of New Jersey, or to other states’ furniture stores if a local business can provide the same product, provide quicker delivery and all for a lower price? “I truly believe shopping local is important,” says Amy Berkowitz of Green Twp., co-owner of Berk’s Furniture & Mattress along with her brother and business partner, Justin Berkowitz of Andover. “Everyone we employ is local. It goes back straight into the community. You don’t have to travel to get the same deals; they’re right here in your backyard.”

Shopping at Berk’s has its perks. “We are your local discount furniture store,” says Berkowitz. “We have the same thing at better pricing; 100 percent satisfaction is our goal.” Formerly called HTP Clearance and Consignment in business for the past four years, the Berk’s changed its store name to Berk’s Furniture & Mattress and rebranded itself a year ago, says Berkowitz. Before it’s rebranding, the store focused mostly on consignment furniture. Now, it specializes in all brand name furniture, mattresses, recliners and even a “big area rug department,” for a great value. Berkowitz says “We carry everything for immediate delivery, all brand name, at discount prices.” Pieces to fill in any living room, dining room and bedroom, reclining as well, are on display at Berk’s. It specializes in “top of the line mattresses made by one of the top five biggest companies in the world, Bedding Industries of America, “all made in NJ, made to order” for sale at “a fraction

of the price.” A main company they get their merchandise from is Southern Motion. “We’re constantly growing,” says Berkowitz, adding that they plan to expand the list of manufacturers they currently work with. Some other names they currently order from are Jofran, Vaughan-Bassett, Hooker, Ashley. “Berk’s is all about value,” says Berkowitz. “That’s all we do is discount. Customers who shop at Berk’s Furniture & Mattress value the in-house delivery available six days a week from delivery guys who are courteous, polite and ontime. With a warehouse attached, and another warehouse right in Pennsylvania, Berkowitz says “all furniture takes a week to come in.” “We are growing and changing,” says Berkowitz. It just added 6,000 sq. feet to the showroom floor two months ago to display its new reclining department. Berk’s carries all Americanmade recliners, all hardwood frame, padding, memory

foam seats in the cushion. The store even offers Lift Chairs for senior citizens. Sold for $499, the chair features power recline and power lift which raises an individual from sitting to standing. Like an antique piece of furniture that needs to be reupholstered rather than thrown out, Berk’s Furniture & Mattress has a decorative history that dates back almost 75 years. Their grandfather, Joseph Berkowitz of Washington, owned a farm then opened up his first retail store, The Trading Post, on Route 57 from 1943 to 1965. A Burger King now owns that store space. A second location opened in 1963, called the County

Trading Post, and that was located on Main Street in Hackettstown. That store changed its name to the Hackettstown Trading Post

in 1988 and was owned by Joel Berkowitz, son of Joseph and father of Amy and Justin Berkowitz. continued on next page

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Berk’s Furniture...

continued from previous page Joel Berkowitz retired after 53 years and that store is currently vacant, says Berkowitz. Through the years, the family business evolved from a hardware store with “knick knacks” in the 1940’s, to appliances, carpeting, stereos and electronics. Then in 1990, it began to sell recliners at the Hackettstown Trading Post, “then became a full-fledged furniture store.” Amy and Justin were employees of the Hackettstown Trading Post, working there for 15 years before and after college. “Our whole lives, we worked on and off there,” says Berkowitz. “Justin started on delivery trucks when he was a freshman. I cleaned the appliances; we did the sidewalk sales. We grew up in the business,” and eventually found their way back to start their own company in 2011. Four years apart in age, they both attended Pope John High School. Amy attended University of Georgia, receiving her degree in marketing and communication, and then volunteered in Africa. Justin attended Rutgers

University, received a master’s degree in environmental economics before returning to the furniture business. Like a comfortable piece of furniture, sometimes it’s just too hard to get up and walk away. “I truly, truly love this business,” says Berkowitz, who spends most of her time on the sales floor. “I enjoy dealing with customers, meeting new people. I love furniture; I like the trends. I like pleasing the customer,” like getting them the furniture “immediately.” From the buying, to the floor planning, helping customers to delivery- Berkowitz says “I like being busy and doing different things every day. Located on Mountain Ave., next to the Paintpourri, before Route 57, “We are there every single day and looking forward to meeting new customers.” Store hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Mon.Sat.; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sun. Specials through Memorial Day include 48 months interest free on any purchases and the company will pay the customer’s sales tax.

Chatham Township Invites Input In Township Website Redesign

he Chatham Township Committee is redesigning the Chatham Township website, www.chathamtownshipnj.gov, and is soliciting input from residents and local business through an online survey. Individuals can take the anonymous survey by visiting http://chathamtwp.question pro.com. Mayor Curt Ritter said, “Communications is paramount to any local government and outside our social media channels on Facebook and Twitter, our Township website offers us one of the best ways to inform and educate our residents on the many services and offerings available to them. As we seek to improve usability, content, and overall de-

sign of the website, we encourage our residents and local businesses to provide their candid feedback and take this online survey. We want to hear how we can further improve the website, what can be done to make it more user-friendly and what additional features and content our residents would like to see on their Township website.” Chatham Township has approximately 11,000 residents and nearly 4,000 households. Individuals interested in receiving emergency and community alerts can visit www.chathamtownship-nj.gov/residentcommunications.html and can learn more about Chatham Township at www.chathamtownship-nj.gov

Library Offers Three Session Creative Writing Course

he Library of the Chathams has invited Tom Cantillon, creative writing teacher at Union County College, who plans to hold a three session course combining information about structuring writing, e-publishing, finding an agent, and

writing assignments to help develop characters, conflicts and storylines. Come prepared to share work. The classes will be held Thurs., May 19, May 26, and June 2 from 7 p.m., to 9 pm. The course is limited to 12 students. Sign up online or call 973-635-0603.

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Chatham Township Named Third Safest City In New Jersey

By Jason Cohen n its annual “Safest Cities” in New Jersey report for 2016, BackgroundChecks.org named Chatham Township the third safest city in the state. According to its website, “it combined data from recent FBI Crime Reports, natural language analysis, social media sentiment analysis and their own research to create a ranking of the 50 safest cities in New Jersey. BackgroundChecks.org is a public safety focused organization committed to increasing public safety, community involvement, transparent government and education.” Chatham is home to 10,400 residents. Its violent crime rate is 9.5 percent and residents have a .02 percent chance of being affected by property crime. Mayor Curt Ritter is proud of the distinction. “This recognition is a testament to the commitment of township officials, police and residents working together to ensure that Chatham Township remains a safe place to live and raise a family,” Ritter told the “Chatham News.” “From our new Neighborhood Watch initiative, to Operation Reassurance, Community Policing and our annual National Night Out events, these programs highlight our commitment to ensuring the safety of our residents,” he added. Chatham Chief of Police Steven Hennelly is not surprised about the town being ranked so high. The township

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is consistently labeled as one of the safest towns and he attributes that to the police department’s community policing initiatives and its relationship with the community. “It is through this partnership and with the support of the township committee, that we are able to serve and protect the residents of Chatham Township at the highest level,” Hennelly said.

He noted that several residents have joined the community policing initiative to stay informed and others participate in its police based Neighborhood Watch program. “The men and women of the police department work hard and stand ready each day to assure that Chatham Township remains a safe place to live and visit,” he exclaimed.

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CHS Juniors Rewarded For Computing Aspirations

hatham High School juniors Catarina DeMatos and Margaret Harrigan have been selected as recipients of the Award for Aspirations in Computing by the National Center for Women in Information Technology (NCWIT). DeMatos has been selected as the 2016 New Jersey Affiliate Runner-Up, and Harrigan has been named a 2016 New Jersey Affiliate Certificate of Distinction. DeMatos has been a member of the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics team for two years and currently serves as co-captain. She helped the team place in the finals at three of five competitions. DeMatos has taken courses in CADD, Computer Science, and Robotics at CHS and is an active member of stage crew. In her free time, she is actively involved in bridging the gender gap in STEM and

computing fields. She mentors a 5th grade all-girls robotics competition team, who placed at the state competition under her direction. Harrigan has taken a wide variety of STEM classes at the high school including Robotics, Design in Tech and Web Design, CADD I and II, Architecture, Introduction to Computer Science, and AP Computer Science. Outside of classes, she has been a member of the Tech Club for the past two years, participating in technology and problem solving competitions against other schools. She also volunteers with Chatham STEM as well. Both recipients are passionate about promoting gender equity in the technology fields. DeMatos said, “Although women make up half of the U.S. workforce, only 25 per-

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Pictured, from left, are CHS teacher John Hajdu, Margaret Harrigan, Catarina DeMatos, and CHS teacher Julie Ryan.

cent hold jobs in technical and computing fields. Being a minority in the field automatically makes you the underdog.To me, this recognition validates that I am on the right path, but also shows that there is still space for improvement.” Julianna Ryan, Robotics Team advisor and CHS Technology teacher, nominated DeMatosfor the award. Ryan said, “Catarina has shown not only a love for the technology fields, but also a continuous drive to learn. Her hard work and dedication have paid off!” John Hadju, CHS technology teacher, nominated Harrigan. Hadju said, “I believe Margaret is an exceptional young woman and am ecstatic to see her achievements being recognized.”

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he Departments of Recreation in Mendham Borough, Mendham Township, Chester Borough and Chester Township are teaming up to offer a pilot teen summer trip camp this summer. This camp is a brainchild of the collaborative efforts of these towns recreation directors to fill a need in the community of offering a summer program for older teens who age out of traditional camps. The camp is being offered and organized by Peter Wright, Recreation director of Mendham Twp. and the camp is open to area teens of the Mendham's and Chester's entering sixthtenth grade in 2016-2017 school year. There are four sessions to get teens out of the house and having fun this summer. Session one begins July 5; session two begins July 11; session three begins July 18; and session four begins July 25. Teens will enjoy visiting such area attractions as Hurricane Harbor, DorneyPark, Six Flags, Mountain Creek Water Park, Camelbeach and more. To register or for more info., e-mail pwright@mendhamtownship.org.

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continued from page 2 homes but found it difficult if the center did not have a piano. “If Kristen can’t play we are missing a component,” says Conlan, who sings tenor. Located right in downtown Chatham, the ‘proximity” was ideal for them. The group also started to feel at home at the Garden Terrace Nursing Home, and made it their sole place for performances. “I just really like the people there,” says Conlan. “You start recognizing faces. You can make an impact. As we’ve spent more time with them, they’ve broken in; they’ve warmed up to us. It’s definitely a rewarding

Last Performance...

experience for us and them.” Singing for the seniors have provided life-skills for the soon-to-be graduates. Although he has been doing theater since the third grade and sang in the choir and a musical, Conlan says “for us three, we were all really nervous,” when they first started performing. “This has helped me become more vocal,” says Conlan, who is enrolled to attend Boston College in the fall. “It has helped my public speaking. Presenting or performing, you have to have a presence, need to be articulate, need to be louder.”

The experience, “It’s grown my passion for music. It gives you motivation when these people are so excited to see you perform. It’s been really fun; we’ve really enjoyed it.” Although they don’t’ leave for college until mid-August, their summers are busy with college orientations, summer camps and for Conlan, a summer job down the

Suicide Awareness Prevention...

continued from front page The hour-long presentation will cover the general scope of suicide and the research on prevention. Attendees will also learn the risk and warning signs of suicide and what they can do to prevent it. Although suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States and the 12th leading cause of death overall in New Jersey — too few people know how to help someone who may be suffering from a mental health condition, like depression or who may be in a suicidal crisis. The AFSP’s NJ chapter is trying to change this and has

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trained more than 70 volunteers to present education programs including “Talk Saves Lives.” “Through research, we know that we can prevent suicide,” said Lorraine Mackin, AFSP New Jersey area director. “There is no single cause, but in most cases if we can first identify the risk and warning signs of suicide, we can help someone who may be suffering. Suicide prevention starts with education. Through these learning workshops, we hope to decrease the number of New Jersey residents who die by suicide each year.”

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shore. “We might come back and do performances during the break,” Conlan admits, as singing is an art he plans to continue. “I love being able to perform and bring the wow,” says Conlan. “It allows you to express yourself in a different way. Singing and performing is a beautiful way to bring life and happiness into their heart.”

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+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SIERCHIO FOR SHERIFF

SHERIFF ROCHFORD, “I fully vetted out both candidates. Here’s why I emphatically endorse John Sierchio for Morris County Sheriff.”

ENDORSED BY SHERIFF ED ROCHFORD

“After 36 years of volunteering, I am convinced that there is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.” ~ John Sierchio

TOP PRIORITIES AS SHERIFF

1. SIERCHIO has more law enforcement and contract negotiation experience than his opponent. MORE EXPERIENCE

• Combat our Heroin crisis by immediately forming Sheriff ’s Committee to fight the epidemic.

2. SIERCHIO spearheaded pension reform to filter out fraudulent claims saving taxpayers millions of dollars. FISCALLY STRONG

• Combat our Child/Spousal/ Senior Abuse by immediately forming Sheriff ’s Committee

3. SIERCHIO has a firm platform and real game plan to further protect Morris County in these more dangerous times. FAMILY ORIENTED 4. SIERCHIO will not allow the agency to be dismantled which would throw the responsibility and respective cost of the specialized law enforcement units to the municipalities. SUPPORTIVE OF SHARED SERVICES

• Enhance the Community Outreach Programs John, his wife Lisa, Ashley 23, John 14, Jordyn 12, Teresa 11, and Max.

5. JOHN SIERCHIO will be a SHERIFF of Morris County and not a puppet to the establishment! CREDIBILITY

Administrative Experience Member of Board of Trustees for the Police & Firemen’s Retirement System (PFRS) 2002-2014 Chairman of the Board of Trustees PFRS 2007-2012 Member of the Boonton Township Board of Education 2008 to present Member of Governor Christie’s Transition Team serving on the Law and Public Safety Sub-Committee

• Return the Morris County Jail to Law Enforcement Professional • Conduct Forensic Audit of Sheriff ’s Office to find ways to better serve the taxpayers • Save Taxpayer dollars by accepting only the minimum salary required by law. Saving the taxpayers $141,000 in my first term. • Establishing a Volunteer Deputy Sheriff ’s program to assist local communities in their time of need.

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VOTE John

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Senior Services Of Chathams Keep Busy This June

lorious Garden Tour 2016 – Cocktail Party, Fri., June 3, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. and Garden Tour, Sat., June 4, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the Chatham Senior Center or online at www.chathamseniorcenter.org. Tickets also available at T.M. Ward Coffee in Chatham, and at the Chatham Library. Cocktail Party: $50; Garden Tour: $40 in advance or $50 on day of tour. Call the Chatham Senior Center

for details at 973-635-4565. Proceeds benefit the Chatham Senior Center. DVD Series – Mon., June 6 – July 11 at 10:30 a.m. “A History of European Art” – In this Great Courses series, lectures will focus on the period stretching from the mid-1600s through the 1930s. Each session includes three 30 min. lectures. No need to sign up. Special Program “A History of the Jersey Shore” – Fri., June 10 at 12:30 p.m. Author,

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photographer & lecturer Kevin Woyce, will present a colorful tour of our state’s coastal history, from the long-ago days of pirates to the founding of today’s most popular summer resorts. Slide show includes both original photography and vintage maps & images. Presentation is preceded by hot dog luncheon. Entire event is free of charge. Program attendees wishing to participate in luncheon must sign up by Fri., June 3. All are welcome, non-Chatham residents included. Bus service available to Chatham residents only. AARP Smart Driver Course – Mon., June 13, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., or Mon., July 25, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Defensive driving program geared for the “over 50” population. Offers help with age-related changes and can earn certification for insurance discount. $15 for AARP members, $20 for non-members. Will be completed in one full-day session with breaks. Bring lunch – snacks and drinks are provided. Must reserve. 30 people limit/class. Nutrition Series – Tues., June 14 at 12:45 p.m. Topic: “Summer Smoothies” Jenn Luster, RD from Chatham ShopRite, will demonstrate how to make delicious and re-

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freshing drinks. Always a tasting! No signup. Senior bus available for transport for Chatham residents only. Participants do not need to be Chatham residents. Tech Session – Wed., June 15, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Chatham High School student volunteers will address concerns and questions regarding Facebook, Skype, and email for laptop and personal devices. Must bring own device. Maximum seven people/class. If interested, call center to register. Open to non-Chatham residents too. Book Club - On Tues., June 21 at noon. the Senior Center Book Club will discuss “a mercy” by Toni Morrison. All welcome to attend, including non-Chatham residents. Senior bus available for Chatham residents. Nonfiction Book Group - On Fri., June 24, at 11 a.m. the Senior Center Non-Fiction Book Group will discuss “The Omnivore’s Dilemma” by Michael Pollan. All welcome to attend. Senior bus available for transport for Chatham residents. Call center at 973-635-4565. Visit www.chathamseniorcenter.org for more information.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline â&#x20AC;˘ Tell Them You Saw It In The Chatham News, May 2016, Page 11

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Union Influence, Morris View Key Topics For Freeholder Hopefuls

By Lynn Adamo aybe John Sette’s admonition that “we’ve had problems with civility” struck a chord, or candidates themselves just needed a break from the cantankerous tone, but May 9’s debate among Morris County’s Republican freeholder and sheriff candidates likely wasn’t the fireworks display some anticipated. Spectators hoping to hear the kind of incendiary comments that have punctuated portions of this year’s race might’ve been left wondering what happened during what was, by this cycle’s definitions, a tame debate at The Chandelier at Flanders Valley, formerly known at Flanders Valley Wedding & Banquets. The evening was sponsored by Republican clubs in the Chesters, Mendhams, Mt. Olive and Washington Township and attended by about 125. The Republican primary is Tues., June 7. Sette, chair of the county’s Republican Committee, urged candidates to observe a level of decorum during the discussion, and the nine participants largely obliged. “I’ve been doing this 34 years, and I’ve never seen anything like it,” he said in his introduction. “We need to talk about issues and do the right thing for Morris County.” The evening began with moderator Guy Gregg, former state assemblyman for New Jersey’s 24th District, posing questions to the two Republicans, both residents of Boonton Township, seeking to replace outgoing Sheriff Edward V. Rochford, who took office in 1993. James Gannon spent 33 years in law enforcement and global security, including as deputy chief of investigations at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force and Novartis. He coauthored the “Morris County Counter Terrorism Task Force Manual,” which underscores one philosophical divide with his rival. John Sierchio, endorsed by Rochford, served 27 years in law enforcement in Essex County Sheriff’s Office and police department, and as detective sergeant with the Bloomfield Police Department. He also served as chair of the state’s Police and Fireman’s Retirement System and is a

member of the Boonton Township Board of Education. Their divisions on homeland security, the sheriff’s salary and their own pensions came into focus, as did respective plans for the Morris County Correctional Facility, which the freeholder board assumed responsibility for last September. Previously, it had been the sheriff’s, but escalating overtime and other costs prompted the takeover. Gannon said he would look closely and thoughtfully at proposed salary increases at the facility, which will “go through labor, legal and administrative review first. We’re not going to be arbitrarily signing contracts.” Sierchio suggested his place “on both sides of the table” offers a unique perspective. “We need to sit down with the unions and see what’s needed, what’s deserved,” he said. “Dialogue first — I’ve always been a firm believer in that.” The pair disagreed on the county’s homeland security responsibilities, with Sierchio believing responses to terroristic threats or attacks rest with the federal government, not the sheriff’s office. “We don’t have the resources to respond,” he said. He pledged greater focus on fighting the county’s heroin epidemic. Gannon countered that “a multidisciplinary response” and close collaboration between the county, sheriff’s and prosecutor’s offices, Office of Emergency Management and FBI is required to combat terrorism close to home and is a greater threat than substance abuse. “I can connect the dots very simply,” Gannon said. Both agreed collaboration and shared services are important for police forces across the county. Freeholder hopefuls debate Morris View The seven Republican freeholder candidates agreed deciding the fate of Morris View Nursing Home, which has chronically operated at less-than capacity and is one of a handful of county-owned facilities of its kind in the state, is crucial in the coming term. “We didn’t wake up this morning and say, ‘My God, what happened at Morris View?’ This has been going on for quite continued on next page

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Key Topics...

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continued from previous page some time. The can keeps getting kicked down the road. ‘Let a successive freeholder board deal with it.’ We’re ready to deal with it,” Randolph Township Mayor Roman Hirniak said of himself and running mates Louis Valori and Peter King. “We need to maintain Morris View for those individuals who can’t afford private care,” Hirniak added. Incumbent Kathryn DeFillippo balked at the charge she and other freeholders haven’t taken time to study the issue. “We’ve been living this for years,” she said. “To suggest we have not done our homework is a joke. We have to find the right fit” and ultimately, she stated, “It’s not for sale.” Douglas Cabana, running with fellow freeholders DeFillippo and Thomas Mastrangelo, was equally adamant. “There will always be a Morris View for the residents of Morris County,” Cabana said, adding that the sitting board received findings of a study it ordered in February and will make “a definitive decision” on the facility by the end of 2016. Former Freeholder John Krickus, running independently, emphasized “there will always be a need for indigent residents of Morris County to have a facility to go to” and “we need to ensure that that need is met.” Krickus and others suggested close study of the three models county administrators have already recommended, including outright sale of the facility, leasing it or leasing it while managing on-site services. Adult day care is one program to consider expanding to fill unused portions of the facility, King suggested.

Union influence debated Gregg asked candidates to outline unions with whom they’d met, and while candidates acknowledged sitting down with teachers and other labor unions, Carpenters Local 254 seemed the evening’s biggest political lightning rod. King and his running mates did not support Local 254’s apprenticeship program because “it took away a municipality’s, and in this instance, the county’s right to negotiate with smaller businesses,” he said. “It conflicted with the contracts law that wants as many people (possible) at the table.” “No matter which four points of the compass of this county you visit, this apprenticeship program is identified as something that will destroy business and is reviled by Republicans,” Hirniak said. Krickus, who said he hadn’t met with the carpenters — “My invitation must’ve gotten lost in the mail” — pointed out that the union’s political director, Anthony Abrantes, was recently appointed to an alternate’s position on the county planning board, a board upon which DeFillippo also serves. Valori and Hirniak deemed the appointment “quid pro quo.” The Edison-based union represents 4,000 carpenters across the state and requires five years of combined on-the-job and school training. It has endorsed Cabana, DeFillippo and Mastrangelo in the coming primary “because we support economic development,” Cabana said. After a round of debate on the topic, Gregg asked the field to signal if they’d ultimately pledge to reject the union’s apprenticeship program, to which each candidate raised a hand.

Page 14, May 2016, Tell Them You Saw It In The Chatham News • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline

Community Outreach And Combatting Heroin Crises Leading Issues For Sheriff Contender

By Cheryl Conway unning for sheriff was always in John Sierchio’s radar once he retired from law enforcement, but the Boonton Twp. resident admits that having a standoff against the current sheriff was out of the question. “I’ve always respected his career,” Sierchio says about Sheriff Edward Rochford who has been sheriff since 1993. “This year he didn’t announce it,” early on if he would be running for a ninth term. “This guy’s an icon; he’s doing a great job. I was waiting to see what the sheriff would do.” At the same time, “I said if he’s not going to run, I’m going to run.” Then Sierchio received a phone call from Rochford who told him he would endorse him as the next sheriff if he ran. Rochford told him, “This is my family here; these are my babies. I don’t trust them with these other people. You fight with what you believe in.” Sierchio’s response was, “If you endorse me, I’m in. There’s no better endorsement than from someone who’s had the position for 24 years. When I do something, I dive in; I don’t just put my toe in.” In a press release, Rochford says, “With 24 years of experience as sheriff, I know exactly what it takes to protect the safety of Morris County residents and the wallets of taxpayers. I also know this: there is no one better qualified than John Sierchio to fight for the families, seniors, and taxpayers of Morris County as our next sheriff, and that’s why I’m proud to endorse his candidacy today.” After 27 years of working in law enforcement, Sierchio, 52, retired in June 2014. A republican, he faces Jim Gannon in the June election for Morris County Sheriff. “I think I can do a good independent job,” says Sierchio. With “my law enforcement experience, I didn’t work behind a desk; I worked on the street with the people,” says Sierchio. “I understand the problems; I know how to deal with them.” Combatting the heroin crises in Morris County, increasing community outreach and improving moral between community leaders and the sheriff’s office, while being fiscally responsible, are Sierchio’s key points in his campaign. “I’ve always been a big proponent of community outreach,” says Sierchio. “To let these people know we are there to help them.” Sierchio says that “perception of police needs to be changed.” More than 80 percent of the time “it’s going to be negative.” Only time it is really positive is when police come to a resident’s house to help with a medical call. Parents are always telling their kids ‘police are going to arrest you if you don’t stop,’ he says. As a police officer, “that was my job, locking people up,” he says. But the best part of his job was when he was able to help people “in a positive light,” like going to charity events, community outreach events or helping people by raising money for families when they needed it.

Combatting the heroin crises in Morris County is on the top of Sierchio’s goals if elected sheriff. He had just attended a heroin summit-one woman from Rockaway stood up and spoke how she just buried her son “37 days ago.” Another woman from Denville shared how her daughter has been in jail for five months, was in and out of jail for eight years, and then will be off to rehab. “Why don’t they bring rehab into the jail?” Sierchio asks. While the prosecutor’s office has a task force to deal with the heroin crises, Sierchio says “the hard thing to do is solve the problem. I want committees,” he suggests, including community leaders, law enforcement, counselors and former addicts. He also suggests seminars “on what to look for” when it comes to heroin; and a hotline in the sheriff’s office that would keep callers anonymous. Parents, who feel that their son or daughter is using heroin, can call the hotline. “We will put you in touch with a counselor. We want to point them toward counseling.” Many parents are afraid to call police as they “fear” their child will be arrested then they’ll need an attorney. “We want to leave it out of the judicial system,” says Sierchio. “We are not going to put them in the judicial system; we are going to put them in counseling.” For those who are in jail, Sierchio suggests that inmates attend classes while in jail such as anger management classes for those charged with domestic violence crimes. “There’s so much grant money out there,” says Sierchio to offset costs for such classes for those in jail. Having a hot line for child abuse, spouse abuse and senior abuse as well as a separate committee dealing with those issues is another idea so people can seek the help they need. “They are afraid to call the local PD,” says Sierchio. “People are afraid of being labeled; towns are so small, they are embarrassed.” Promoting the Project Lifesaver program that the county does offer is also on Sierchio’s to do list. Used as a GPS system, users wear bracelets so authorities are able to find individuals who can get lost if they have dementia, Alzheimer’s and other conditions. Bringing back the moral between the sheriff’s department and the Morris County Freeholders is an obstacle Sierchio knows he needs to face if elected. “You got to work the problem out,” he says. “I’m a firm believer in diologue.” Sierchio says, “I want to bring in the real aspect of the sheriff’s department,” that being community outreach. “The people have had enough. They want to be part of it. They are tired of being told what to do. They want to be heard. They want to sit at the table. “I’m not going to be that career politician,” he adds. “I want to be working with the people. I want to be the community outreach sheriff; I want to be the people’s sheriff.

I’m their guy, I’m one of them.” Sierchio points to his background, work experience and volunteering that have shaped him to being an ideal sheriff. “I got the law enforcement experience we need and the fiscal conservative we deserve.” Sierchio, who grew up in Bloomfield, started his law enforcement career in 1986 with the Essex County Sheriff’s office. “I always wanted to go into law enforcement; always wanted to go into FBI,” he says. He had an uncle who was a Newark police officer and a cousin too who served as role models. He chose local police rather than FBI, as “I really wanted to stay close to my family,” he says. He attended Montclair State University for criminal justice and when he was 22 started his career at the Essex County Sheriff’s department, where he stayed until 1989. “I wanted to get on the street, so I went to Essex County police department. I worked in Newark; the experience I got in Newark in two and a half years, you won’t see in Morris County.” In 1991, he moved over to Bloomfield Police Department and worked the “4 to 12 shift for 20 years.” He was a union representative for 12 years, vice president of the Bloomfield PBA Local 32 for two years and PBA State delegate for 15 years until promoted to sergeant. In 2001, he ran for the Police and Firemen’s Retirement System Pension Board of Trustees, a non-paid position, in which he served for 12 years. In his four-year role as chair, he saved millions of dollars for taxpayers and protected the continued on page 16

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Keeping People Safe Top Priority For Sheriff Candidate

By Cheryl Conway e walked the local beat, investigated and solved major crimes, mentored newer detectives and traveled the world in a head security job for a top pharmaceutical company- the time is now for Jim Gannon to top off his career as the next sheriff of Morris County. As a life-long resident of Morris County with 33 years working in law enforcement and global security, Gannon has laid out his plans to confront current challenges facing law enforcement and to lead Morris County families into a safer future. Two republicans running for the seat which had been taken by Sheriff Edward Rochford since 1993, Gannon will face John Sierchio in the June 7 election. Confident that he has what it takes to wear that sheriff’s badge, Gannon, 54, points to his leadership, education and “heart” for being the best candidate for the position. “I have the leadership, the integrity, the education and the heart to be the next Morris County sheriff,” says Gannon, who resides in the Town of Boonton. “I’ve walked the walk,” he says from a local beat cop in his hometown of Boonton and Boonton Twp., deputy chief of Investigations at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, FBI’s elite Joint Terrorism Task Force and then global head of Security Risk for Novartis Pharmaceuticals. “Thirty three years of experience, that is very unique. The time is now for that leadership. It’s an exciting time to take the Morris County Sheriff’s Office to the next level. The time is now to do that.” Regarding his leadership, Gannon says “I came up the ranks in Morris County; I was born here,” 1961 in St. Claire’s Hospital in Denville. “I was educated here; I worked here. I know the county like the back of my hand.” Not only did Gannon work his way up through the ranks, but he was introduced to law enforcement as a young child since his father worked as a NYPD detective for 32 years specializing in Missing Persons investigations. “My father would take me to work sometimes,” he describes. “I found it intriguing. I saw it up close and personal,” since the age of seven, teaching him “things at a young age.”

When Gannon turned 18, he started to get involved with the Boonton Police Department and after college graduation, officially began his career in law enforcement as a patrolman. He received his associate’s degree in law enforcement from the County College of Morris in 1981; bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from William Paterson University in 1983; and a master’s degree in administrative science from Fairleigh Dickinson. Gannon has been involved in so many cases over the years, from sex crimes, to child abuse, narcotic and domestic violence. He was also commander of the FuncoLand Homicide Task Force and the Walter Contreras Homicide Task Force. While he says he had a “spectacular experience” working eight years at Novartis, “very lucky” and “blessed” in that position which allowed him to travel the world, he retired Jan. 1, and decided that “I just want to circle back into government” in order “to give back. We are in tough times. We are in dangerous times in America.” His plan is to “bring a modern approach” to the sheriff’s post which provides a lot of services to Morris County such as Canine, Bomb Services, Crime Scene Investigations, SWAT and even security at the court house. He says “people should be able to present their case in court without intimidation.” In the courthouse, “The mission should be to keep people safe,” says Gannon. “There’s a real responsibility there. You have to develop a plan to deal with risk,” like knowing which cases are going on the courtroom during the day. “The more we can improve on the levels of communication the better we will be.” Gannon questions, “How is the security in the sheriff’s office? Are we doing everything we can to keep people safe? These are all plans that need to be developed.” Creating partnerships with police, sheriff’s office and prosecutor’s office is a good place to start. “You can do tremendous things.” Security goes outside the courthouse into schools and the community, and making the county safer is one of Gannon’s key points. "We live in extraordinarily dangerous times, where even places like Morris County can become a target for violent

crime and acts of terrorism,” says Gannon. His idea is to “work with local, county, state and federal law enforcement and public safety communities to keep Morris County’s neighborhoods, schools, and businesses safe and secure, and to strengthen the county’s preparedness in light of the increased threat of terrorism. “We live in a great county, but vigilance and preparedness are absolutely essential to keeping us safe and secure,” Gannon says. “I have the experience – both foreign and domestic – to work with law enforcement at all levels of government to protect our citizens.” Gannon’s next goal is to “promote programs that help seniors identify and avoid consumer fraud, keep children safe, crack down on gangs, and combat the use and sale of illegal drugs. “Heroin, it’s a real issue in Morris County and throughout the state,” says Gannon, with more than 700 people dying from usage last year in NJ. “The scourge of heroin and other powerfully addictive drugs are a constant threat to our children and families,” he said. “We need to aggressively attack gangs and drug dealers, while helping those who become addicted get help and treatment.” Gannon says, “we have a jail; we have great services here and great police officers; no reason why we can’t develop a better plan.” Creating partnerships with local,

county, state and federal law enforcement should be part of that plan. “We need to strengthen relationships and stance on preparedness,” he says. “We have to train together; first time meeting should not be at the scene. We’ll be able to do that under my watch; building bridges.” Protecting seniors is also a stronghold for Gannon. “They are constantly being targeted by unscrupulous criminals trying to separate them from their life savings,” he says. “I will work to educate our seniors and pursue punishment to the fullest extent of the law for fraudsters out there trying to prey on innocent people.” Another part of Gannon’s plan as sheriff is “to restore a productive and respectful relationship with the freeholder board, and recommit the sheriff’s office to financial accountability and responsibility in these challenging economic times. “We all need to work together; people want that; they don’t want the banter. Do what’s right for the people of Morris County. That’s what I will do.” He says, “People are sick and tired of elected officials fighting with each other and worried more about scoring political points than solving problem. I will run an independent sheriff’s office in line with my constitutional obligations, while at the same time working with the freeholders and other duly elected representatives throughout continued on next page

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Sierchio...

continued from page 14 savings of law abiding citizens by exposing fraudulent pension claims. “In 2007, I was calling for pension reform. It wasn’t popular with the unions but it was the right thing to do,” he says, as there was a 20 billion dollar pension system at that time. “I was calling for pension reform. There’s more than just a funding issue; there’s abuses.” When Chris Christie was elected governor, he named Sierchio to serve on his Gubernatorial Transition Team. In Nov. 2009, Sierchio was appointed to serve as a member of his Law and Public Safety Subcommittee to review and provide recommendations regarding reforms to the division of NJ State Police, Highway Traffic Safety and Alcoholic Beverage Control.

Sierchio has received dozens of awards such as a proclamation in recognition of his courageous work as a volunteer at Ground Zero; a proclamation from the Newark City Council for saving lives of several residents by entering a burning building before fire department arrival; named “PBA Officer of the Year” by the Essex County Conference of PBA’s in 2004. “No one has a background like me,” says Sierchio, who is serving his seventh year on the Boonton Twp. Board of Education. “Seventeen years on labor side, 19 years on administrative side. Very rarely you get someone like me.” Married to Lisa and raising four children, Ashley, John, Jordyn and Teresa- Sierchio currently works in medical sales and pension consulting.

Get Out and Vote Tuesday, June 7

Gannon...

continued from previous page Morris County to ensure that government answers to the will of the people, not political bosses and special interests who try to pull strings from behind-the-scenes.” As far as being fiscally responsible, Gannon plans to do his part. “It’s not about the money for me,” says Gannon, who plans to forego his police pension as Morris County sheriff. “My heart is in it. It’s an important position. We can do good things. I’m the protector of the people. I’m for the people. That’s where we

need to go. Need to do it without a drain on the taxpayer.” He has also given back to the community as current president of the 200 Club of Morris County and adjunct professor at Centenary College teaching Death Investigation, among other involvements. Gannon was married for 26 years to his wife, Lisa, who died in 2010 after battling Multiple Sclerosis. They have one daughter, Kate DeSantis, who is expecting to bring Gannon’s first grandchild into the world this summer.

Volunteers Needed

ew Jersey Blood Services, a division of New York Blood Center, which supplies blood products and services to 60 hospitals throughout the state, is in need of volunteers at blood drives. The blood service volunteer is an integral member of the collection team whose task it is assist donors with registration, es-

corting and canteen duties, and to watch for post donation reactions. Volunteers should have the ability to relate to the public, be able to perform different jobs as needed and have the willingness to follow the rules. For additional information contact, Manager of Community Relations, R. Jan Zepka at 732616-8741 or zepka@nybloodcenter.org.

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ver notice the banners that fly over Southern Boulevard in the township and at Reasoner Park in the borough each May proclaiming EMS week, and wondered: "what is that about?” What is EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Week? It is a campaign to recognize and inspire EMS personnel, strengthen the profession and encourage public appreciation for EMS professionals. This year, EMS Week was held May 15-21. In Chatham, Emergency Medical Services personnel are the trained EMTs from the Chatham Emergency Squad who volunteer their time to provide emergency medical services and transport -free of charge- 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year responding to about 1,200 calls annually. The American College of Emergency Physicians, in conjunction with the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, created "National Emergency Medical Services Week" in 1973 with the support of President Gerald Ford. Back then Emergency Medical Service was a new profession, and EMS practitioners

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Chatham Celebrates EMS Week

had only just begun to be recognized as critical components of emergency medicine and the public health safety net. A lot has changed since then. EMS is now firmly established as an essential public function and a vital component of the medical care continuum. On any given day, EMS practitioners help save lives by responding to medical emergencies including heart attacks, difficulty breathing, a fall or accident, stroke, drug overdose or acute illness. EMS practitioners attend to their patients' medical needs and show caring and compassion to patients in their most difficult moments. This year's campaign theme is EMS STRONG: "Called to Care," referring to the EMT's every day call to provide a sense of security and relief during chaotic and challenging situations, and being called upon to do the work that only a select few can do. To honor national EMS week this year both the Chatham Borough Council and Chatham Township Committee are awarding a proclamation to the Chatham Emergency Squad as acknowledgment of their service. Accepting the award will be CES President

Richard Crater, who has said, "While in the past we have noted EMS week, this year we are doing more to thank our men and women and raise awareness in the public of this special week." According to Crater, banners and signs will be located around Chatham all week and the Squad will recognize members with a memento at their annual spring picnic.

When asked how citizens of the Chathams can support the Chatham Emergency Squad during national EMS week, Crater stated, "We always need volunteers, and of course donations, which are the source of nearly all our funding." For more information visit www.chathamemergencysquad.org.

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Spectrum Works As Partners To Provide Employment Opportunities For Autistic Individuals

By Cheryl Conway t’s all about partnerships at Spectrum Works in Secaucus. A non-profit company, Spectrum Works has teamed up with a for-profit company while the student employees gain skills by working alongside a mentor or coach. The strategy has so far been a success. The pilot program that started almost three years ago recently ended and is growing to include a partnership with a another forprofit company- a large international distribution company also in Secaucus- with talks to expand with a third company in NJ. The goal is to eventually branch out into New York and then around the country. “They [Spectrum] are branching out into other partner companies,” says Ann Marie Sullivan of Wayne, chief executive officer and founder of Spectrum Works. The mission of Spectrum Works is to give employment opportunities to individuals with autism. Sullivan had been working as a for-profit

entrepreneur with publishing companies in Europe when she stumbled across a working environment that put some things in a different perspective. “I wanted to do something entrepreneurial” but with a “non-profit social enterprise,” she explains. “I was volunteering as a non-profit consultant in New York City,” she explains. “We were asked by an organization in New York to evaluate a program. I was asked to come in to make it better.” When she walked in the door of a building in NY, she noticed a small screen printing company with employees faced with developmental or intellectual disabilities. “I didn’t have any association with anyone with different abilities,” she admits, so seeing such a productive group caught her attention. “They were productive and talking like any other environment or business. It was a special place.” When Sullivan found out that this business was going to shut down, she realized

that the concept of providing job opportunities for individuals that face challenges “could be larger.” She thought, “What could we do; what model could we put in place? What vision can we change; changing the perception of people; not only the awareness but the understanding of that?” Sullivan decided that people with autism need greater support in the work place. “Everybody knows someone with autism,” says Sullivan. “I don’t have any connection,” she adds, but the statistics are troubling. According to research, 500,000 people with autism are scheduled to graduate from high school in the next 10 years throughout the U.S. Also, NJ has the highest number of individuals with autism in the U.S., with a 12 percent increase in NJ for kids with autism. Statistics reveal that one in 68 individuals in the U.S. have autism, in which one out of 42 is boys. Out of those individuals with autism, 80

percent are unemployed, she cites. It is encouraged that students with autism stay in high school until they are 21 “so they can learn more things and stay in programs for development,” says Sullivan. Some question, “can people with autism work in a competitive environment? Answer is ‘no’,” says Sullivan. “There’s nothing really out there for them. We believe it is possible.” Her idea was to have individuals with autism work alongside those in competitive employment, a term used by government which means people who are neuro-typical or without autism, she explains. “How can we create a supportive environment for individuals to work in competitive employment?” she challenged. “Idea is to make them independent.” By working alongside a mentor or coach, “they will become more independent. “We encourage integrated employment,” she says. “They have potential and can work. continued on next page

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Employment Opportunities For Autistic Individuals...

continued from previous page They have average or higher than average IQ’s. They just need opportunities.” Sullivan was going to start her own manufacturing company so decided to visit Green Distribution, a for-profit screen printing, company to get some ideas and see its machinery. “When I met the owner [Robert Butters] and I told him what we were going to do, he said ‘Why don’t you partner with us?’” An opportunity she could not refuse, Sullivan began her company, Spectrum Works, which stems from autism spectrum disorders. She started out as a pilot program almost three years ago, in August 2013. “This organization is unique,” says Sullivan. “We partner with for-profit companies. Students who attend high school come to work at the business with all arrangements made through their school including selection approval and transportation, she says. For the pilot program, Spectrum Works partnered with Green Distribution from 2013 to 2015; since that ended, she has continued the partnership and even Green has hired

some of her interns to join his workforce, she says. Spectrum Works helps to manufacture custom printed screen apparel. Students have been involved with helping to print 65,000 t-shirts a day, as well as other promotional items through a distributor such as water bottles, pens, polo shirts, sweatshirts. “It’s a very large factory,” says Sullivan. Many of the orders are universal music tshirts; other orders have been for Shoprite, towns, recreation programs and some corporate deals. Students get paid a salary, minimum wage, to work alongside people without autism who serve as coaches. The environment has been helping the employees who have autism “to be prepared for the work experience,” says Sullivan. “We partner with high schools in five counties in NJ,” she says. Schools handle transportation in getting the students to the one large facility in Secaucus, with some coming as far as Short Hills and Millburn. Spectrum is now in the

process of expanding and adding a second facility, but Sullivan said it was too soon to reveal the for-profit company name. Currently, 40 students are involved in the internship program. Employees must be at least 16 years; most work three days a week, four hours a day-typically 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.- and are involved in manual labor to office work. “They are part of the production team,” says Sullivan. Some work tasks include after-screen printing like putting tags on, bagging, making and filling boxes, sorting sizes, putting orders together by finding, folding and packing. Work is done in an assembly line. There are also administrative tasks, graphic design, creating spreadsheets on database, making packing lists. “We find out what they are interested in and gear them toward that,” she says. The partnership works as “we fund ourselves out of the product at a competitive price.” Companies can support the program and help young adults with autism by placing

orders for t-shirts and other items through Spectrum Works. So far 80 companies have placed orders throughout the tri-state area, says Sullivan. Sponsoring fundraisers is another option to help fund the program. Mission Fitness in Livingston raised $10,000 in its April fundraiser with its cross-fit gym to support Spectrum. Sullivan plans to look into some grants and plans to start a crowd-raising campaign with Rutgers in the near future. Spectrum’s program for students extends into the summer as it also employs college students and other employees. Sullivan says they will be adding courses as well such as job writing skills, interview strategies and resume building. Enrollment is continuous. Students can contact their high school now for consideration into next school year’s program. For more information, to fundraise, donate or place orders, visit spectrumworks.org or email annmarie@spectrumworks.org or email annmarie@spectrumworks.org.

Township Offers Perspective Into Public Works Through Video Series

he latest Chatham Township Perspectives, www.chathamtownshipnj.gov/perspectives, video goes on the road with the Township Department of Public Works (DPW) to explore its role in maintaining the streets, storm and sanitary sewers, parks and sports fields, buildings and grounds and the Tanglewood Lane recycling and compost facility. The video features DPW Manager Richard Young, , who describes the daily challenges of maintaining more than 40 miles of Township roads, water treatment and building and grounds crews under normal conditions and during storms and power outages. Produced in-house by Tom Salvas, manager of Chatham Township’s government access TV channels, the video shows the close coordination both within the department and with the township’s police and local utility companies to anticipate issues and respond quickly to emergencies.

Mayor Curt Ritter, speaking on behalf of the committee, said, “We are pleased to offer this behind the scenes look at the Department of Public Works as part of our increasingly popular Chatham Township Perspectives video series. This dedicated group ensures that our roads remain safe during winter storms, our playing fields are in great condition for our children, and encourages township-wide sustainability efforts in the management of our recycling center. On behalf of our residents I thank Rich and his team for their continued hard work. Their commitment and experience is one of many reasons Chatham Township remains a great place to live and raise a family.” Residents who have suggestions for future videos are encouraged to email the Communications Committee at Communications@chathamtownship- nj.gov.

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CAP Cadet Program Offers Summer Youth Opportunities

By J. L. Shively n exciting opportunity for young adults continues to soar at the Chatham High School with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Cadet Program. The CAP was founded back in Dec. 1941, “one week before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor,” says Aerospace Education Officer Jose Vergara. CAP provided coastal patrol for submarine activity during World War II and is now a part of the Air Force Auxiliary and is represented in many squadrons all across the country. The three main missions of the CAP, Vergara states are emergency services, the youth cadet programs and Aerospace education. Beginning in 2014 the local CAP Squadron, the Capt. “Bud” Jackson Composite Squadron “initiated the Cadet Program for the youth at Chatham High School,” says Vergara. This gives local teens the unique opportunity to “serve communities, participate in leadership development training, and acquire new skills that benefit personal and professional growth.”

The Cadet Program is geared towards ages 12 to 18 and is open to adults 21 or older to join as senior members. “Adults are essential in the support of the Cadet Program,” Vergara says. Currently this squadron serves towns such as Chatham, Madison, Florham Park, East Hanover and Morristown. Interested individuals living outside these areas may contact CAP to locate a squadron closer to them. To become a Cadet, members must meet the required age limit, pay the annual fee of $45, meet attendance requirements and continue to show a commitment to the CAP missions and core values, explains Vergara. Squadrons meet once a week. The Capt. “Bud” Jackson Squadron meets on Tues. from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Chatham High School. Cadets are required to attend at least 70 percent of the meetings to remain in good standing. Cadets go through different phases of their training including in-classroom lessons in Aerospace Education, STEM activities, character development as well as leadership and safety skills.

The out-of-classroom experience consists of basic physical training, drills on military customs, volunteer work and even orientation flights in powered aircraft and gliders. An exciting upcoming out-of-classroom experience for cadets are the summer camps offered both nationally and internationally. “One of the main summer events that cadets across NJ attend is the annual basic training encampment during the summer,” says Vergara. The cost of this camp is $150 and is not mandatory but is required if a

cadet wishes to move up the CAP ranks. The summer encampment is a nine day long camp at Joint Base McGuire-DixLakehurst. Encampment assists in the development of a cadet’s leadership skills, allows for further investigation into aerospace technology and incorporates a focus on STEM education as well as establishing a commitment to a regular exercise routine. “Encampment presents the five key traits of cadet life,” says Vergara, “the uniform, aerospace themes, opportunities to lead, challenges and having fun.” continued on page 24

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CHS Club Rescues Pets

hatham High School’s Aid for Shelter Pets in Need Club (ASPIN) sponsored an animal rescue effort through St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center in Madison.Students in the club raised and donated money to fund a rescue trip by the “Zephyr,” a custom-designed, climatecontrolled transport vehicle that St. Hubert’s runs as part of an outreach effort to partner with other regional shelters to maximize adoption opportunities based on community demand. The Zephyr traveled throughout New Jersey and found 10 dogs and eight cats, who all found a new home at the shelter, where they will be put up for adoption to local families. ASPIN President Junior Aaron Fontes said, “I be-

lieve it is important for students to get involved in advocacy for shelter animals because I definitely think that there is something to be said when one helps those who are unable to help themselves. Feeding and sheltering the animals, bringing them to a no-kill

environment, and helping them find a good forever home, I believe, reflects well on a person’s and community's character, and it certainly shows that people think that it is important to help end cruelty, no matter the scale and what form it may take.”

CAP Cadet Program...

continued from page 22

Cadets who wish to move beyond the basic encampment are encouraged to attend other summer camps across the nation including Leadership Schools, Flight Academy, Aircraft Manufacturing and Maintenance Academy, Cyber Defense Training Academy, Para rescue and Survival Orientation Course and many other specific interest camps. The International Air Cadet Exchange, Vergara notes, offers summer programs for cadets to become “ambassadors of goodwill for three weeks” in a country of their choice. Some of the countries cadets are able to travel to include Australia, China, Israel, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Korea. “Selected cadets for the international program have a reputation of being the best of the best,” says Vergara and even receive special access to “factories, airports, engineering laboratories and government agencies.” Cadets traveling abroad will obtain a unique and lasting experience interacting

Leave the cold weather behind...

with cadets from other countries and learning about the aviation community of the host country. “One day you may find yourself in the latest fighter simulator, the next day meeting high government officials at an official banquet, and then hiking through pristine wilderness on yet another day,” says Vergara. In addition to the skills and experience gained through this program, cadets also have an opportunity to receive academic scholarships to be used for tuition, books and room and board for any accredited post-secondary school. For more information about CAP and the Cadet Program contact Mary Romany at mary.romany@njwg.cap.gov or call 732424-6484. Interested individuals are also welcome to visit the weekly meetings at the Chatham High School in room L10 by contacting Romany beforehand. Visit http://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/ how_to_join for more information about membership.

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Embrace Tutoring & Educational Services Recognizes Scholar-Athlete

he Chatham, NJ-based company Embrace Tutoring & Educational Services recognizes Lindsay DiStaso, a senior at Governor Livingston High School in Berkeley Heights, as a scholar-athlete. A soccer standout, she is captain of the Lady Highlanders, who also loves math, she is thrilled to be attending Vanderbilt University this fall. Often mentioned in local news outlets for scoring a game-winning "golden goal," she approaches academics in a similar manner: work hard, and results will follow. She notes that Embrace Tutoring's "specialized tutoring" was a contributing factor to her college application success. In her words, her

tutor, Forrest, "was able to quickly assess her strengths and identify the areas in which she needed to focus in order to ace ACT and standardized tests." Furthermore, she mentions that she has had terrific teachers at Governor Livingston across the board. One of her favorite experiences at school, she says, was being featured in a question on a physics test! She had come into class and shared an anecdote from her weekend, and was delighted to find a question on the next exam that mentioned that very story! "This type of personal connection," she notes, "creates a very open, interactive learning environment." When asked if she has any advice to offer

younger students, she said, "work your very hardest academically, but balance it with sports or an activity you love." Embrace Tutoring and Educational Services is a premier tutoring and test prep organization that provides the best educational experience for clients by providing them with top-level teachers and mentors. All of the educators are experienced classroom teachers! The key component of its success is the exclusive screening, training, and qualification process in which Embrace is dedicated to recruiting and selecting only highly qualified and proven teachers to meet students’ academic needs. Visit www.embracetutoring.com for more information.

Library Of The Chathams Keeps Busy In June

CHS Senior Named National Merit Scholarship Winner

en Y Networking Group is a forum dedicated to Generation Y young adults interested in job search, networking, and career development. All are welcome to attend the meetings taking place on the first and third Wed. of the month, June 1 and 15 at 7 p.m. Waterworks Artists Show will feature a diverse group of artists who met at the NJ School of Visual Arts under the direction of W. Carl Burger, plan to hold an art show at the library through June. An opening reception, sponsored by the Friends of the Library, is set to be held on Sun., June 5, from 2:15 p.m. to 4 p.m. The public is invited to attend. An Introduction to Table Top Gaming will be presented by Jennifer Graham-Macht, owner of Satellite Comics and Games in Chatham, at the library Wed., June 8, at 7 p.m. as she guides attendees through a world

n Wed., Chatham High School senior Katherine Novak was named a National Merit $2,500 Scholarship winner. The 2,500 Merit Scholar designees were chosen from a talent pool of more than 15,000 outstanding finalists in the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program. National Merit $2,500 Scholarship winners are the finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. These Scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors, who appraised a substantial amount of information submitted by both the finalists and their high schools: the academic record, including difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from two standardized tests; contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official. Principal Darren Groh said, “A very small percentage of students are eligible for a National Merit Scholarship. We are very proud of Katherine for the work and effort that she has put into her academics at Chatham High School,

of tabletop gaming. Learn more about tabletop games such as Catan, Pandemic and the party game, Codename. The History of Farming in Chatham and Madison will be the topic by Jim DelGiudice, an adjunct professor at Morris Community College and photojournalist, who will speak about the historical aspects of farming in Chatham and Madison at the library, during the Fishawack Festival, on Sat., June 11 at 2 p.m. Get in the Game: Get a Jump Start on Your Fitness Program. Local personal and group trainers plan to share their fitness program philosophies at the library on Wed., June 15 at 7 p.m. Dr. Matthew Riordan of Professional Physical Therapy & Training, a board certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy and a certified strength and conditioning specialist, will speak along

and earning this scholarship is a wonderful recognition.” This year’s competition for National Merit Scholarships began in Oct. 2014 when more than 1.5 million juniors in some 22,000 high schools took the Preliminary sat/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (psat/nmsqt®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. Last fall, the highest-scoring participants in each state, representing less than one percent of the nation’s high school seniors, were named semifinalists on a state-representational basis. Only these 16,000 semifinalists had an opportunity to continue in the competition. From the semifinalist group, 15,000 students met the very high academic standards and other requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. By the conclusion of the 2016 program, about 7,500 finalists will have earned the “Merit Scholar” title and received a total of about $33 million in college scholarships. NMSC, a not-for-profit corporation that operates without government assistance, was founded in 1955 specifically to conduct the National Merit Scholarship Program. The majority of scholarships offered each year are underwritten by approximately 440 independent corporate

with Camellia Redmerski and Nekki Robinson, coowners of Momentum Cycling & Fitness in Summit. R.J. Cobbs of the NFL: Overcoming Adversity to Reach Your Life GoalsFormer NFL player for the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants, R. J. Cobbs plans to discuss overcoming personal adversity, strength training, and injury prevention at the library Mon., June 20 at 7 p.m. Born and raised in Parsippany, Cobbs was injured twice during his professional football career. Currently, he is a strength and conditioning coach and a football specialist at Inception Athletic Excellence Center in Madison. Saturday Afternoon Tabletop Gaming on Sat., June 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. Jennifer GrahamMacht, owner of Satellite Comics and Games in Chatham, plans to lead this event. All supplies will be provided.

CHS Principal Darren Groh presents senior Katherine Novak with her certificate of achievement from the National Merit Scholarship Program.

and college sponsors that share NMSC’s goals of honoring scholastically talented youth and encouraging academic excellence at all levels of education.

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