On January 5^th, before 250 dignitaries in the County Administration Bldg. main meeting room, Mayor Dick Krieg was selected to swear in Jack Schrier of Mendham Township for a 3rd term as County Freeholder while Elizabeth Schrier beamed.

MENDHAM TOWNSHIP DIRECTORY

www.mendhamtownship.org

Town Hall ( 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Mon.-Fri.)....(973)543-4555

Stephen P. Mountain , Administrator

Penny Newell, Clerk

Public Works/Road Department ......(973)543-4509

Construction & Zoning Office ....…..(973)543-7464

Municipal Court .................………..(973)543-7526

Police Dept. (Non-emergency only)…(973)543-2581

EMERGENCY ONLY...... 9-1-1

Township Committee

Richard H. Krieg, Mayor                                  (973)543-6755

Robert D. Pierson, Deputy Mayor                    (973)543-5606

Phyllis J. Florek                                                (973)540-9543

Brian J. Phelan                                                  (973)895-3031

Jack Schrier                                                     (973)543-2447

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So, What’s Happened Since the November 2004 School Referendum?

Last November voters in Mendham Township overwhelmingly – by 86% -- approved our special referendum. (Chester Borough put the same question to its voters with a similar result.) The question was, do you want the Township Committee to investigate changing the present five-town regional high school district so as to make this town’s tax burden fairer, without reducing the quality of education? We promised that if you approved the question, we would work hard to achieve the result.

Starting on election night, meetings were held with governing body members from the Mendhams and Chester along with regional high school representatives. At this writing, additional sessions are being scheduled, with others involved. We want to continue gathering the essential – and accurate -- information needed to find the best way to achieve our twin goals: lowering the RHS taxes and keeping the schools’ high quality of education.

We are also considering creating volunteer committees of residents from the Mendhams and Chesters to work with us when the time is right. To get on the list, contact Mayor Dick Krieg with your name and phone number. As your votes told us loud and clear, this is a matter of very high priority. We are now more hopeful than ever that it can happen.

  Tuesday June 7 Is Primary Election Day  --  Your Vote Will Count!  

IN THIS ISSUE

·  School Taxes? Your Message Received

·  Revaluation Explanation Reiteration

·  “Seeing Eye’s” Open

·  Have You Been to Schiff?

·  Health Dept. Calendar   

·  Corrections to Open Space Brochure

·  Crash Coming!

·  “More Peaceful Weekends” Ordinance

·  Mayor's Report: "Good News, and Lots of It"

            ... and more

Good News – and Lots of It

This will be a challenging and interesting year for your Township Committee and for you, our residents. 

All Properties Revalued

We have just finished our mandated revaluation of all real property in the Township.  This was required by law in to bring our municipal assessment up to true market value. 

The revaluation itself will have no effect on the tax collected; that will be determined by our annual budget, with the tax rate fixed when the budget is approved. That all properties will be at “market value” after being substantially below for many years, means that whatever the 2005 tax rate finally is, it will be lower than it was in 2004.

The greatest portion of our tax revenue goes to fund our schools.  A comprehensive article by our Assessor is in this edition.

Referendum: Message Received

Last year during the November General Election, our voters demonstrated clearly at the ballot box that they are unhappy with the tax impact of the funding formula used by our West Morris Regional High School District . Your overwhelming approval of the school tax  referendum asked the Township Committee to find a better way.

We are now doing just that. One way is through Trenton . I have been meeting with our local legislators and other parties in Trenton looking for a legislative solution to this grievous situation. But that kind of remedy may be a long time in coming, if ever. So, we have not stopped there but are actively pursuing all opportunities to give us tax relief.  We will be reporting to you as we move ahead.

Preserving Our History

In late February, after more than a year of review and revisions, we introduced a historic preservation ordinance. Ours is one of the oldest towns in Morris County , pre-Revolutionary by many decades and far older than our charter date of 1749. Many of our most important historic building have already been lost, and with them, milestones of our past. We believe it is important that we find a way to preserve our heritage and not infringe on the property rights of the individual. This is a delicate balance and we are making every effort to do this in a fair and just way.

How about 9-1-1 -- in Reverse?

When you have an emergency, you know you can phone 9-1-1 . Now, when our town has an emergency, or even a special announcement we want you to hear swiftly, the town can phone you!  Beginning in March we became part of the new Morris County Emergency Notification System (ENS) that acts like 9-1-1 , but in reverse. For example, if there is a severe flooding situation we can automatically call homes in the affected area and issue essential information.

If we had been able to use this system in February when our recycling collection was canceled due to snow, ENS would have allowed us to phone your home and tell you about the cancellation and the rescheduled pick-up. As someone who believes in improving communications between the town and our residents, I know this new system will be very useful.

Supporting Those Who Give So Much

There has always been strong support in town for our fire companies and our First Aid Squad. A study started in 1996 by Mayor Pierson clearly demonstrated that changes and modernization are needed. But we were reluctant to undertake the major expenses required while our schools were also asking you for substantial sums for their own needs. Now the school referendums are behind us and we are moving toward implementing those overdue recommendations.

Firefighters and First Aid Squad members are all volunteers. Our lives depend on them in emergencies. They are surely among the most giving of our residents, sacrificing great chunks of their personal time for the good of the community. 

The Brookside fire house and ambulance facility is located in a flood plain and has suffered extensively over the years. It is in need of significant reconstruction. But rather than sink tax dollars into an increasingly fragile and potentially endangered facility we are planning to construct a new, properly designed structure. It appears we may be able to do so on the same property by putting it farther back from the road than the existing building (i.e., more to the west). 

Proud to Be Your Mayor

On a personal note, I am proud to serve with such dedicated and knowledgeable Township Committee members. As a long-time resident, I have always valued the priceless volunteer contributions given so unselfishly, to make this town the wonderful community we all love. From recreation and environmental protection to the many other committees that work for all of us, and to the hundreds of volunteers in town who donate their time so willingly, thank you. You all are part of the beautiful fabric of our beautiful town.  We are proud to be citizens of Mendham Township .

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In his first official act on January 5th, with 250 dignitaries and attendees present in the County Administration Building main meeting room, new Township Mayor Dick Krieg was honored to be asked to swear in Freeholder Jack Schrier for a new term as Elizabeth Schrier beams.

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Towards A More Peaceful Community

Ordinances Aim to Make Life Less Stressful

Last Fall the Township Committee adopted a new Ordinance that regulates when outdoor power equipment can be operated, in an effort to provide residents with greater opportunity for peace and quiet.

The purpose is to regulate the hours of construction and the use of power equipment out-of-doors in order to protect and promote the health, welfare and safety of the public, and the peace and tranquillity of the Township.

The construction, maintenance, repair, alteration or demolition of any building or structure, or the laying of any pavement, including but not limited to making an excavation, movement of earth, clearing of land, and loading or unloading of construction materials, equipment, or supplies, shall be unlawful except as specified in this section.

Specifically, operating any power equipment, including but not limited to a power saw, hammer, sander, drill, grinder, lawn mower, leaf blower, woodchipper, thatcher, generator, air compressor or similar power equipment shall be permitted only during the following hours:

            Weekdays:                                                       7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

            Saturdays:                                                        8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

            Sundays and Federal holidays:                          9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Most important, such activities on Sundays and federal holidays may be conducted only by the owners or occupants of the premises or their family members and not by contractors or employees.  There are certain common-sense exceptions and a full copy of the ordinance can be obtained at town hall.

“Turn it down, please!”

Numerous complaints are received each year relating to the intrusive effects of noise of various kinds and coming from a variety of sources.  These complaints are most common during warm weather months. In addition to the above ordinance, here is how those issues are addressed (often quaintly) in the Municipal Code:

3-1.1         Noise Prohibited.  It shall be unlawful for a person to make, continue, or cause to be made or continued any loud, unnecessary or unusual noise or any noise which does or is likely to annoy, disturb, injure or endanger the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of others.  (1970 Code § 6-2.1)

3-1.2         Definition of Noise.  Without intending to limit the generality of subsection 3-2.1, the following acts are hereby declared to be examples of loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise in violation of this section:

a.       Radios; Televisions; Audio Equipment.  The playing, use or operation of any radio receiving set, television, musical instrument, audio equipment or other machine or device for the producing or reproducing of sound in such manner as to disturb the peach, quiet and comfort of neighboring inhabitants or with louder volume than is necessary for convenient hearing for persons who are in the room, vehicle or chamber in which the machine or device is operated and who are voluntary listeners.  The operation of such a set, instrument, audio equipment, machine or device between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., so that it is clearly audible at a distance of one hundred (100) feet from the building, structure or vehicle in which it is located shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this section.

b.       Yelling; Shouting.  Yelling, shouting, hooting, whistling or singing on the public streets, particularly between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., or at any time or place, which annoys or disturbs the quiet, comfort or repose of persons in any office, dwelling, hotel, motel or other type of residence or of any persons in the vicinity.

c.       Animals; Birds.  The keeping of animals or birds which, by causing frequent or long-continued noise, disturbs the comfort or repose of any person in the vicinity.

d.       Horns.  The sounding of a horn or warning device on any automobile, motorcycle, bus or other vehicle except when required by law, or when necessary to given timely warning of the approach of the vehicle, or as a warning of impending danger to persons driving other vehicles or to persons on the street.  No person shall sound a horn or warning device on an automobile, motorcycle, bus or other vehicle which emits an unreasonably loud or harsh sound, or for an unnecessary  or unreasonable period of time.

There are more examples in the Ordinance, intended to give typical illustrations of prohibited noise along with, again, certain reasonable exceptions. We hope that by including this information in the newsletter, all residents will better understand why complaints occur and make efforts to avoid violations. On a variation on the Golden Rule, it is obviously in your own best interest to be a good neighbor.

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REASSESSMENT OF ALL PROPERTIES IN THE TOWNSHIP

Prepared by Ernest Del Guercio, Tax Assessor

The Township of Mendham is finalizing a municipal-wide reassessment of all real property. Reassessment is a periodic program conducted, in this instance by the Assessor, Ernest Del Guercio, to appraise all real estate properties to 100% of their true market value. Also known as tax equalization, reassessment insures that all property owners pay their fair share of taxes based on the actual market value of the property they own. 

In addition to ensuring that the local tax burden is borne equally, reassessment at or close to 100% of value means that Mendham property owners will be paying a fairer, more equitable portion of county taxes, since no adjustments in the equalization process have to be made.  

An new and added benefit of the present reassessment is the computerization of the process. A database will be established describing all properties in the township, providing much quicker access to the information for both the tax assessor and the property owner.  The database also will be used by the assessor to update property values when required.  This will help insure that the equality between assessments will be maintained.

Once the reassessment program is completed, the tax rate will undoubtedly go down to reflect the increased value of Mendham Township ’s base of ratables.  However, this does not necessarily indicate whether the tax on your property will increase or decrease.

The last time a reassessment was conducted in Mendham Township was in 1992.  Regardless of whether a property is residential or commercial, or whether it is occupied or vacant, it must be assessed at the same standard of value. That ensures that every property owner pays his or her fair share of the tax burden.

How a reassessment impacts property taxes

Many people are of the mistaken belief that a reassessment program is a way to raise more tax money for the municipality, schools and county.  This is not true.  The purpose of our program is to fairly distribute the necessary tax burden among all property owners based upon the true value of their property.  This is the law.

The overall tax rate is determined by dividing the amount to be raised by taxation so as to support all three (3) units of local government (the local and regional school systems, the municipal government, and the county government) by the value of all property in Mendham Township .  The tax rate for 2005 has not yet been determined .  The rate will be certified in the summer after the municipal, county and school budget processes are complete.

The appeal process

Informal hearings have been made available for property owners who had questions or concerns about the new assessment of their property.  This interview process was informal and focused on the market value of each property, and all data used to arrive at and support the individual values.  The Assessor is currently reviewing all values relative to information presented at that time.  He is in the process of informing all property owners who took advantage of that opportunity of the results of his review

If you are dissatisfied with the results of your informal interview you can file a formal appeal with the Morris County Board of Taxation. This must be done prior to April 1, 2005 .  This step is similar to the informal hearing; however, a Commissioner of the Board of Taxation will hear your case.  You will be given an opportunity to provide market evidence that supports your claim that the assessed value is overstated.  After reviewing the facts presented, the Board will render a decision as to whether an adjustment is in order.  Residents should call the Board at (973) 285-6707 to obtain the appeal form.  Appeal forms are not available in town hall. 

In the event you are not satisfied with the decision of the Board of Taxation, you

have the right to file an appeal to the Tax Court of the State of New Jersey .  This must be done within 45 days from the judgment of the County Board of Taxation.  This step in the process is formal, taking place in a courtroom before a Tax Court Judge.

Information concerning all new assessments is available for review at the Assessor’s Office during scheduled office hours, Wednesdays from 3:00-5:00 PM . 

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GET LUSH!

When you mention hiking, nature, or open space, people in the Brookside part of town will probably think of Dismal Harmony Natural Area, which is a wonderful place to hike, especially for fall foliage. Folks in the Ralston part of town may think of India Brook or Buttermilk Falls , two connected areas that offer a more rugged beauty. But one often overlooked gem is the town’s Burnett Brook Natural Area.

The Burnett Brook area is actually two pieces of land, one a lush wetlands area and the other an “upland” piece on a nearby hill. Both were conveyed to the Township (along with a generous contribution to fund programs in forest management) by Stirling and Elizabeth Tomkins.  Mr. Tomkins so loved this land when it was his, he wanted others to also love and appreciate it. Touring the property with him was a wonderful experience:  He would relate a story, literally, for each tree we passed, such as how a hawk raised a family in this particular tree one year and how the young hawks moved to another part of the property where they had their own family another year. The Environmental Commission has extended a practice of Mr. Tomkins’ and placed plaques on many trees that identify the name and species, so one can easily learn to identify trees common in our area.

Burnett Brook Natural Area is on Mt. Paul Road , an unpaved road off Route 24 (County 510) across from the Westmont Montessori school and near the border with Chester .  Just turn south into the dirt road ( Mt. Paul ) and the parking area is immediately on your left, with trails leading into the wetlands section.  The upland section is a short hike, maybe 150-yeards, farther down Mt. Paul Road just beyond the fork, and extends uphill from the road.

The wetlands section, the one right at the parking area, can only be described as “lush”.  Plants of all kinds grow lavishly and large here, fed by fertile soil and lots of moisture.  Trees, a variety of wild flowers, ferns, and many other types of vegetation are here in abundance. Anyone appreciating such beauty or wanting to photograph it is well rewarded.  Kids love to hike here, usually dawdling by the side of Burnett Brook itself.

The trail is level, and while most of it is firm, parts may be soft, especially if it’s been raining.  There are boardwalks over wet sections but you still may get a little bit of mud on your shoes in some places at times.

The trail loop runs along Burnett Brook, crossing it a few times with log bridges, and winds up at a pond. You can either return as you came or complete the loop on a trail going out from the pond that circles back to the parking lot.

If you want a special a place that just inspires calmness and relaxation, with lots of green and loads of flowers, visit Burnett Brook’s wetland area.  The upland section is also a good hike (even Mr. Tomkins used his tractor to negotiate it!) but that’s a story for another day.

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Send Hometown Vistas

Here’s an idea: instead of an ordinary postcard, send a bit of Mendham Township to friends and family, far and near, with our own new Open Space Greeting Cards.

The cards come boxed with envelopes, each box holding an assortment that includes award-winning photographs from our 2003 Open Space photo contest. All photos were taken by our residents and show glorious views of Mendham Township open space properties, the spaces you helped preserve. They are definitely a unique item to use when you want to send a note card for any occasion.

Boxes of 8 cards with matching envelopes are available for sale in town hall at $10 per box. Very special, and, as they say on TV, “not available in stores.”

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Corrections to Open Space Brochure

Whoops!

In February, the Open Space Trust mailed out a beautiful color brochure that included some photo caption errors. The photos were taken by residents who entered the 2004 open space photo contest. 

·        In the centerfold, the upper picture is not “Remains of the Lewis Bridge ” but is “Dismal Harmony” taken by Shane Mulcahy.

·        In the same centerfold, the lower picture is not “Dismal Harmony” but is “India Brook” by Amalia Duarte.

·        The picture nearer the back labeled “India Brook by Shane Mulcahy” is “Remains of the Lewis Bridge ” taken by Paul McDonough

Sorry for the mix ups! If you would like additional copies of this brochure, they are available in town hall.

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“Seeing Eye” -- Enjoy

India Brook Park Now Open

Long known as the Seeing Eye’s puppy breeding facility, this magnificent property near the northern end of Ironia Road was acquired by Mendham Township in October of 2000. Now, these 104 acres of beautiful rolling hills, grassy fields and wooded vistas are an important part of our expanding municipal parks system, and ready for your enjoyment beginning this Spring.

Among future plans for the park are the creation of new hiking trails and renovation of the existing structural facilities for public use. (To get there, on the northernmost section of Ironia Road look for the new “India Brook Park” sign. Park entrance is on the east side of the road.) You and your family are encouraged to visit this impressive example of our open space program, where you can stroll, observe nature, play games in the field, relax, and in so many ways just enjoy the land you helped preserve.

Open Space page on Township website

In the decade since its inception in 1994, the Mendham Township Open Space program has become a vital component of our special quality of life here. You can get a good idea of what your support for this program has already achieved by entering www.mendhamtownship.org and clicking on the Open Space Program button (bottom right). You’ll find a wealth of information about

·        The goals of our open space program

·        Maps of the township’s open space properties

·        Directions to the properties

·        Photographs of our open space areas and parks

·        Hiking information, and much more

When at home, visit the web site … when outdoors, visit with your own “seeing eyes.”

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Building Department

How to Succeed with Your Contractor

Ah, ‘tis Spring, and the simple songs of radial saws, steel hammers and compressor-powered nail guns begin to fill the air. Before you leap into a new project, look at these tips from the township’s Building Inspector. They are based on a new state regulation known as the “Home Improvement Contractors Registration Act” requiring that all such contractors must be registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs by December 31, 2005 . The following are items to consider when you hire a contractor to work at your site.

1)      WATCH OUT FOR A LOWBALL PRICE – THE PRICE YOU THINK YOU WANT TO HEAR.

“We have some materials left over from the job up the street;” he says. Or, “We have a crew in the area and can give you a good deal.” Be wary when asked how much you can afford to pay for the job, or if you are told that, for a price you know is too low to be true, “We can do it for that.”

2)      WATCH OUT FOR VERBAL QUOTES AND ESTIMATES.

Make it a habit to get everything in writing. This avoids misunderstandings, and protects you, the homeowner, and also protects the contractor.

3)      WATCH OUT FOR ” WE’LL NEED A FEW THOUSAND UP FRONT TO BUY MATERIAL.”

Get a payment schedule and stick to it. Also ask for -- and check -- references.

4)      WATCH OUT FOR “ IF YOU CAN HELP ME OUT WITH MATERIALS, I CAN GIVE YOU A GREAT DEAL.”

5)      “I’VE JUST MOVED BACK INTO THE AREA AND NEED THE WORK.”

As stated above, get references and check them. Make the phone calls and visit the sites the contractor last worked on.

6)      “YES, WE ARE LICENSED IN THE CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS.”

Ask for all licenses and check them carefully. Call the township Construction office if you need help.

7)      ASK FOR LIABILITY AND WORKERS COMPENATION INSURANCE.

Get a certificate of insurance before you hire someone and keep it in your building project files.

8)      MAKE SURE PERMITS ARE APPLIED FOR, OBTAINED, AND CLOSED OUT WHEN THE PROJECT IS FINISHED.

This will make your project go a lot smoother in the long run.

Of course, most contractors are reputable. But even good ones may ask or state some of the above. The best way is to check on references and ask for copies of licenses, insurance and registration certificates. If in doubt, or to be sure, contact our office, We are here to help you!

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Environmental Commission

Protecting Our Conservation Easements

The Mendham Township Environmental Commission has retained the services of a licensed forester, Mr. John Linson, to collect baseline data on the Township’s more than 80 conservation easements. Mr. Linson also will help set up a program to review and monitor each easement’s restrictions and ensure they are being complied with.

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Beginning this March, the Environmental Commission began mailing letters to residents who have conservation easements on their properties,  notifying them of the approximate date of the review.  Included with the letter is an educational brochure about conservation easements. The brochure was prepared by our Environmental Commission and is available to the general public as well. 

A “conservation easement” is a legal document by which a property owner agrees to restrict the use of a portion of a property so as to protect its environmentally sensitive features, such as streams, steep slopes and wetlands and their transition areas. Among the Environmental Commission’s obligations is to offer recommendations to property owners for ongoing preservation of their easements. We have been doing so for over 30 years. Protecting these resources through conservation easements is one more way to retain our town’s unique character and exceptionally high quality of life.

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Discarding? Recycle Instead

Used Computers Are Not “Trash”

The famous IBM motivation slogan (for those old enough to remember) was “Think” Now, eBay Inc. and Intel Corp. have launched a recycling program called “Rethink” to motivate Americans to safely dispose of mounting piles of used computers and other electronic gadgets.

Do you know, U.S. consumers replace or retire roughly 133,000 personal computers per day, according to a research firm?  If improperly disposed, computers can leak a plethora of toxins into the environment, including lead, cadmium, chromium and mercury.

The Environmental Commission encourages you to explore the web site http://ebay.com/rethink where you can get information on how to get rid of computers and electronic gadgets safely. As a bonus, the site includes a downloadable program that will erase all data from hard drives, ensuring that your financial and other personal data cannot be shared.

Among the options you’ll find for safe disposing of electronics is reselling, donating to charities, or taking the equipment to nearby recycling centers. Some centers are listed on the site. Close to home, you can visit the Morris County MUA website for information on their own program: www.mcmua.org. By the way, “Rethink” will only link you to recyclers that promise not to dump the machines in landfills in developing nations -- a growing source of environmental toxins in China and southeast Asia.

Other sponsors of this program include Apple Computer Inc., Gateway Inc., Hewlett-Packard Co., International Business Machines Corp. and Ingram Micro Inc., as well as the U.S. Postal Service, which in some cases will help deliver PCs to eBay drop-off locations or recycling centers.

As someone once said, “It’s a good thing.”

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Kinsels Receive “Award of Appreciation”

Residents Tracy Kinsel and his wife, Jamie, are recipients of the Mendham Township Historic Preservation Committee’s 2004 Award of Appreciation.  This award is given periodically to persons who, while altering the exterior of their homes, make an exceptional effort to preserve its historic character. Jamie Kinsel also is Chairman of the Morris County Heritage Commission.

(insert photo, with caption:)    The historic Kinsel home on Combs Hollow Road .

The Kinsel home is located at 7 Combs Hollow Road and was built in 1807 by Morris Cramer.  Its original design was a one-and-a-half story center hall with features characteristic of many early 19th century Jersey farmhouses. Other details, such as eave brackets, a front porch, and possibly a second story, were added most likely during the mid-1800s.  Most of these features from the original building and the later addition have been retained. 

The Kinsels moved into their home in 1992 and since then have undertaken a number of restoration projects.  First was restoring the roof, a project that required more than a month to first remove 2” to 3” of accumulated roofing materials so as to reach the original nailing strips, and then to reapply cedar shakes.  Other projects included restoring the original chimneys plus countless repairs and restorations to the building’s interior and the surrounding landscape.  One of the results of all this work is an extensive collection of buttons, bottles, tableware and other artifacts of the Cramer family.  “In fact,” explains Kinsel, “you can’t pull a weed in the garden or put a shovel in the ground without coming up with a reminder of the past.”

The Kinsels’ most recent project was expanding the original 10” x 10’ kitchen to more modern and convenient proportions, and adding a porch to the rear of the house.  Cusano Associates was the architect; Brian Seavy Construction was the contractor.  Care was taken to disrupt as little as possible to retain the look of the historic home.  Stones for the new foundation were gathered from the Kinsel property to match those of the original home.  The twin 9/6 windows that were removed to facilitate the addition were reused.  The rear porch duplicated many of the architectural details found elsewhere on the house.  In all, more than fifty Italianate eave-brackets and 500 pieces of dental molding were copied and installed to match the original.

Presenting the award, Ray Nadaskay, chairman of the Mendham Township Historic Preservation Committee, cited the guidelines for historic restoration established by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior.  Most important of these was the design and use of materials consistent with the age and architecture of the original farmhouse, and the design, which, while consistent with the original architecture, still allows a discerning observer to distinguish between the original section of the building, and the new.

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Ralston Cider Mill –

back to the past, underway at last!

HooRay!

Following years of discussion, cogitation, negotiation, acquisition and fund raising, the Trustees of the Ralston Cider Mill are delighted to announce that restoration work on the mill has finally begun. And, appropriately for a project that has been so much a “labor of love,” the work started on Valentines Day.

The Rondout Woodworking firm from Saugerties , New York , has been commissioned

to repair and reconstruct the classic, historic wood structure within the Mill. This is the first of a lengthy series of meticulous steps that ultimately will transform the Mill from what was once one of Morris County’s most threatened historic sites into a re-created, working cider mill. At that time it also will become one of the county’s outstanding attractions, occupying a prominent place along a historic Heritage Tourism Trail leading outward from Morristown .

Congratulations and compliments are extended to the many visionary, diligent men and women of our community who continue their efforts to make this dream a reality.

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Schiff Nature Preserve: Discover a Local Jewel

Prepared by Tanya Bisignano, Director of the Schiff Nature Center

There is a jewel that many Mendham residents have not yet admired or simply may have forgotten about because it has been tucked neatly away in a quiet spot just off Pleasant Valley Road . This woodland gem, the 340 acre Schiff Nature Preserve, is owned and operated by a local non-profit organization, the Schiff Natural Lands Trust. The Trust invites adults and children of our community to visit the Preserve for a peaceful outdoor experience or for a study of local natural history.

The Schiff Nature Preserve offers opportunities for hiking, biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding and nature study on nearly seven miles of well maintained trails. These trails are open year-round during daylight hours and pass through several interesting habitats typical of the New Jersey Highlands. Visitors may choose to hike through our forested uplands, grassy meadows or along the picturesque banks of McVicker’s Brook. A picnic lunch near one of our ponds is always a relaxing way to spend the afternoon. Visitors can then stop at our Nature Center to observe the live animal exhibits or even inquire about an interesting natural history sighting.

            For those interested in a more formal study of the environment, ecology and New Jersey natural history, the Schiff Nature Center offers a diverse calendar of educational programs. Our schedule changes monthly, providing the public with a variety of events that are appropriate for children, families, or, in the case of our new Environmental Book Club, adults. Popular past events have included our annual maple sugaring event, guided spring and fall birdwatching walks, stargazing, and various after school children’s programs. Schiff educators also conduct a four-week long summer nature program for children ages six through twelve during July and August. This “Schiff Summer Nature Program for Kids” focuses on daily natural history themes with all hikes, crafts, and games centered on that theme.  Just a few of the many past themes studied include bats, bird adaptations, butterflies and moths, tree identification, clouds and weather, Native American life, and animal tracking. All programs are designed to reinforce our mission of inspiring environmental stewardship through education.

By May of this year, we anticipate the completion of various improvement projects that will add to the functionality and appearance of the Nature Center . Several of our storage rooms will be combined to create a permanent presentation room and classroom. The center’s main area will function as a home for a series of rotating seasonal exhibits and some interesting new additions to our live animal collection. And, we will begin to utilize an extra room on the first floor as a gift shop that will supply visitors with an assortment of nature needs from bird feeders to field guides to tee shirts.  Construction has also begun on the new native plant butterfly garden, which is adjacent to the Nature Center . This garden will not only serve as a resource for wildlife, but also as a  horticultural education tool and outdoor presentation area.

Exciting things are happening at the Schiff Nature Preserve. We invite you to participate in a program, explore our woodlands or stop into the Nature Center for a look around. This priceless local jewel is a community resource that should not be left untapped or underappreciated. 
For more information please call 973-543-6004 or visit our website at www.schiffnaturepreserve.org.

What’s Coming Up at Schiff?

(Pre-registration is now required for all programs. Please call 973-543-6004)

In April

Songbird Saturday                                         Saturday April 16^th 8 a.m.
                                                                        COST: FREE (Families)
Join our resident naturalist, Mike Bisignano,  for an early morning jaunt around the preserve's woodlands in search of spring migrants. The sights and sounds of spring are a great way to leave winter behind. All ages and levels of birding experience are welcome but you must provide your own binoculars. The hikes will depart from the parking lot.

Earth Day Stargazing                                                Friday April 22nd 7:30 p.m.
                                                                        COST: FREE (Families)
Maybe you celebrated the Earth during the day, but at night let's celebrate the stars! Join our special guest amateur astronomer Mike Noll for a celestial adventure. We'll see an exciting slide show of space objects, a few demonstrations on simple space concepts, an explanation of basic telescope use and a few tricks for how to find what you are looking for in the sky. Then, weather permitting, we'll have a group gathering of telescopes in the Great Meadow to see Jupiter, Saturn, the moon, and the billion other objects in the sky. We will have two telescopes, but if you have your own telescope we encourage you to bring it.

Environmental Book Club                                        Monday April 25^th 7 p.m.
                                                                        COST: FREE (Adults only)
The Schiff Nature Preserve is sponsoring an environmental book group that will connect adult readers who are interested in environmental literature. We will meet at the Marge Davidson Administration Building at Schiff to discuss Noah's Garden : Restoring the Ecology of Our Own Backyards -- by Sara B. Stein

The Earth Singer                                                        Friday April 29th 7:30 p.m.

                                                                        COST: $5 per person M, $10 per person NM (Families)

Weather permitting, we’ll have a good old fashioned sing along (complete with s’mores) around a campfire. This event will be hosted by special guest environmentalist and singer, Dave Orleans.
                                                                                    In May

Incredible Insects                                                      Wednesday May 11^th 4-5:30 p.m. (ages 6-8)
                                                                        Thursday May 12^th 4-5:30 p.m. (ages 9-12)
                                                                        COST: $5 Members, $10 Non-Members
We’ll use live insects to introduce children to the largest phyla of animals- the Arthropods! We’ll emphasize their importance in the food web and talk about some of the amazing adaptations that have allowed this group of creatures to be so successful. In appropriate weather, we’ll go out to collect and identify some interesting insects that are found around Schiff. Space is limited and pre-registration and pre-payment are required.

Schiff Annual Members Meeting & “Wolf Visions” Program                                Sunday May 15^th 1 p.m.
                                                                                                            COST: FREE (Families)
Join us for our annual members meeting, election of trustees and public program. After the public meeting we will be joined by “Wolf Visions”. Vinnie Reo will dispel the myths and legends about the "Big Bad Wolf" and teach the importance of their role in keeping a balanced ecosystem.  The presentation will include a slide show, question and answer, and the opportunity to meet a real wolf.

Songbird Saturday                                         Saturday May 21st 8 a.m.
                                                                        COST: FREE (Families)
Join our resident naturalist, Mike Bisignano,  for an early morning jaunt around the preserve's woodlands in search of spring migrants. The sights and sounds of spring are a great way to leave winter behind. All ages and levels of birding experience are welcome but you must provide your own binoculars. The hikes will depart from the parking lot.

Environmental Book Club                                        Monday May 23^rd 7 p.m.
                                                                        COST: FREE (Adults only)
The Schiff Nature Preserve is sponsoring an environmental book group that will connect adult readers who are interested in environmental literature. We will meet at the Marge Davidson Administration Building at Schiff to discuss Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal -- by Eric Schlosser

In June

Leaf Detectives                                             Tuesday June 28^th 1-4 p.m. (ages 6-8)
                                                                        Wednesday June 29^th 1-4 p.m. (ages 9-12)
                                                                        COST: $5 Members, $10 Non-Members
Leaves are all around us. They come in all shapes and sizes. We’ll do some close-up examinations of the most common leaves found around Schiff and learn how to identify each one. Each child will use their favorite leaves to make a take home “leaf mobile”. Space is limited and pre-registration and pre-payment are required.

                                                                                    In July & August

Schiff Summer Nature Programs for Kids
July 18^th -22^nd  and 25^th- 29^th, August  8^th- 12^th and 15^th -19^th         
COST PER WEEK:$120 members, $165 Non-members  (Kids ages 6-12)
Schiff educators will again host our annual summer nature program for kids. This year we have added an additional week and now offer sessions in August! The program uses various concepts of ecology and environmental science to engage children in fun and exciting adventures! Each day's activities revolve around a particular theme in nature and the lessons, crafts and hike all focus on that theme. Each of the four weeks offers different themes so children may join us for just one week or for all four!

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Health Department

News, Programs and Events

While Mendham Township has its own Health Office, we are served by the Bernards Township Health Department, which offers a variety of public health protection and health promotion services and programs for our residents. From restaurant inspections to health screenings, resource referrals and prevention programs, we work together to help residents stay healthy and keep our environment safe and clean. 

HEALTH DEPARTMENT CALENDAR

(Dates subject to change – call to confirm)

Winter Nutrition Workshop Series with Judith Bailey, MS, RD, Consulting Nutritionist.  There is a $5 per person fee for each session to cover the costs of food and materials.  Participants may register for all or any of the workshops.  Please register by calling 908-204- 2522 or emailing jbailey@bernards.org

Annual Health Screening

May 14, 2005 , 8-9:30 a.m.- The Garabrant Center, Mendham

May 19, 20, 21, 7-9:00 a.m. – St. James Church, Basking Ridge

Low-cost health screening includes a blood test, urinalysis, and blood pressure check.

The purpose is to find conditions such as diabetes, gout, kidney disease, liver disease, cholesterol levels (HDL & LDL) and triglycerides, anemia, leukemia, severe infections, and hypertension.

All participants must pre-register.  Pre-registration will be held at St. James Church in Basking Ridge on Thursday, April 28 from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and on Monday, May 2 from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.   You may also pre-register in person [for the Basking Ridge Clinic] at the Bernards Township Health Department after May 2 or [for the Mendham clinic] at the Chester Borough, Mendham Borough, or Mendham Township Board of Health Offices.  Residents $25.00; Non-residents $35.00.  Please call 908-204-3070 for more information.

Male Cancer Screening

June 7 & 8, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. - Liberty Corner School , Bernards Township

Includes PSA test, digital rectal exam, blood pressure check and an educational presentation.  Cost:  $25 for service area residents; $35 for non-residents.  Appointments are necessary and can be made at the pre-registration dates for the health screening or by calling 908-204-3070.

Skin Cancer Screening

July 6, 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. - Fellowship Village , Liberty Corner

Open to all residents.  Cost - $10.00.  Appointments are necessary and can be made in person after June 1, 2005 .