Guide Me Home to North Jersey

Somerset, Morris and Hunterdon counties provide very desirable neighborhoods, with easy access to New York City, beautiful landscapes and excellent school systems. Today, I would like to concentrate on a property in Mendham Twp., an area known for its many estate areas. This particular 5.2± acre estate is so lovely and enchanting that when you approach from the circular driveway, winding through mature trees and flowering shrubs, you feel that you have arrived in a story book setting. This custom home provides 6956± sq. ft. of comfortable living space. Warmth and “Traditional Splendor” are emitted from the13 rooms that welcome you to call it your home. Set within nature’s best, you can move right into this home due to the beautiful updating that was completed in 2011. There are first and second floor family rooms, second floor billiard room, five fireplaces, five bedrooms, five baths and new, oversized picture windows that invite the wonder of this story book setting into the home.

Please contact Bella for further information and details about this lovely estate home and property. 908/930-8495.

Posted by:  Bella Wilgus

Another beautiful town that I service in Morris County is Randolph Township, which is about 21 square miles. It is part of the New Jersey Highlands region, characterized by flat top ridges and alternating deep valleys. From certain elevated parts of Randolph you can see the Manhattan skyline. Randolph was originally settled by the Lenni Lenape Indians because of its rich soil and abundant natural beauty. The European colonists and Quakers soon became its inhabitants. The first iron mine of New Jersey was registered in 1713 in Randolph, discovered by the Quakers. The Randolph mines supplied the soldiers in the Revolutionary war. During George Washington’s winter in Jockey Hollow, supplies were procured from the mines of Randolph. During the 1930’s and 1940’s Randolph became a vacation spot for New Yorkers looking for a place with natural beauty, clean air and clean water. Many summer camps, hotels and bungalow colonies were built.

A beautiful Colonial on 1.03± level, picturesque acres has just come on the market in Randolph. This home exemplifies the town motto, “Where life is worth living.” This lovely, ready to move-in Colonial is the perfect home for buyers who want a pretty setting, safe community, good schools and easy commute to New York City. The rooms are spacious and glisten with beautiful refurbished hardwood floors, new Pella windows in several rooms and three skylights that brighten and warm every space in the home. The foyer opens to a unique second floor hallway with a vaulted ceiling and skylight. The family room is absolutely lovely and conveniently located, opening to the breakfast area and kitchen. You will adore the arched windows and two sets of French doors dressed with custom Hunter Douglas shades.

This home in Randolph is very warm and inviting and will make “Life worth Living.” Please call me for more details 908-930-8495.

Posted by:  Bella Wilgus

My previous blogs about Peapack-Gladstone have revealed that these twin boroughs in Somerset County are an ideal place to reside. My family and I have enjoyed this lovely, quiet community for almost 33 years. P-G boasts an easy commute to New York City and yet it is rural enough to enable residents to enjoy a quiet, peaceful life amidst nature.

This blog is about a spectacular home and property that just came on the market, Hidden Manor. It is a majestic French Country Manor completed in 2009, located on over 11.84 private, level, farmland accessed, wooded and open acres. Many people have goals that they never achieve, but this supreme estate home was the dream and brainchild of its owner and her goal was accomplished. She spent two years designing it and three years in construction with creativity, dedication, and exquisite taste resulting in this gem of Peapack/Gladstone.

All the charm and elegance of a bygone era is represented in this magnificent Manor. It reveals the love and care it took to design and build. The elegance becomes obvious in the craftsmanship, intricate detailing and beauty. The stone and stucco exterior with detailed wood shingle and copper roof is stunning. The highest quality materials are incorporated in every detail inside and out of this 16-room home. The ceiling heights are a minimum of 12 feet with six foot wide arched hallways and every wall in the home features curved corners. There is even an Orvis family room which captures the outdoor spirit. The gourmet kitchen, breakfast room and two butler’s pantries incorporate the highest quality appliances. These include two Gaggenau ovens and a Lacanache gas stove. Circular stairs ascend from the foyer to five spacious bedroom suites each with lavish baths. 

If you wish to have more details about this French Country Manor in Peapack/Gladstone please call me at 908/930-8495. Showings must be preceded by a 24-hour appointment.

Posted by:  Bella Wilgus

A year ago, I wrote a blog about the Harding Township summer camp. As I sit here on this cold, snowy March day, it is a pleasant thought to be thinking about the summer! The kids will be out of school and parents will want to keep them entertained and busy for those long, hot weeks! If you live in or around Harding Township, consider this great suggestion–Harding Township Day Camp, which is conveniently located at the Harding School in New Vernon.

The camp runs for four weeks from June 27th to July 22nd from 9-3pm, and you can sign your child up for all four weeks or for one-week intervals. This will give you plenty of time to take that August vacation and also start back-to-school shopping, doctor’s appointments, etc.
 

Children ages 3-12 are eligible to enroll. The Polliwog program is available for 3-4 year- olds which runs from 9am to 12pm or an extended program which runs from 9am to 3pm.
 

There are lots of available activities, including, but not limited to, sports, computers, drama, arts and crafts, and drama productions. Swimming lessons and science classes may be taken at a nominal additional cost. This year, campers will bring their own lunch and mid-morning snack, except on special days when it will be provided.
 

For more information and registration forms, check out their website link above.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

The bi-annual Art in Bloom event will be held on May 6 and 7 at Christ the King Church in New Vernon, Harding Township. Proceeds from this art show benefit the Kemmerer Library.

Come and enjoy the Preview Party on Friday night from 6 to 9pm. Saturday will feature additional opportunities to purchase art and bid on silent auction items from 10 to 2pm.

Volunteers are being sought to help run the event as well as artists who would like to participate. It’s anticipated there will be over 60 artists this year! You can also donate silent auction items or place an ad by clicking on the above link.

Have great time!

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Last year at this time I wrote a blog about interest rates and home prices and the effect on monthly payments. At that time, it was projected that interest rates would rise. That projection appears to be taking hold. According to Freddie Mac’s website, the Weekly Primary Mortgage Market Survey indicates that interest rates for February 10, 2011 are now at 5.05%! The following chart is from the Wall Street Journal February 10, 2011.

It’s time to revisit this subject.

Home prices have not risen and may fall further, so the buyer who feels that waiting was a wise financial decision may want to rethink the decision to buy (or not to buy). Why? The key issue when buying a home for most people is how much it will cost them on a monthly basis. Home prices are not projected to rise until mid-2011 (according to Macro Market Home Price Expectations Survey 12/20/2010). But the rise in interest rates will negate the good news for buyers, not sellers, about stagnant prices this spring. Recently the Wall Street Journal said, “If prices come down another 10% but interest rates increase by 1 percentage point, that would mean the same monthly payment today vs. waiting.”

There is a definite relationship between mortgage rates and home price fluctuations. For every point the mortgage rates increase, the value of the house you can buy is reduced 10% if the buyer wants to stick with a predetermined monthly payment. According to Keeping Current Matters, the difference in monthly payments on a $360,000 loan with a 5.0% interest rate ($1932) vs. a 6.0% interest rate ($2158) is $226.00. That works out to an annual difference of $2712! For the full term of the 30 year mortgage, that’s $81,360 more. If you only want to spend $1932 per month that means that you must reduce the value of the home you are buying by 10%.

As with all future financial trends, no one can accurately predict what will happen over the next 6-12 months. However, based on trends as noted above, it would certainly make sense to take a long, hard look at buying now while the monthly financial outlay remains low.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Embracing the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift every day!

The 12th gift is Harding’s Community Spirit. There is much to bring its residents together year round.

Many residents start their day at the New Vernon post office. Not only do you say hello to everyone getting and sending mail or packages, there is always a need to catch up with those wonderful USPS men and women behind the counter!

Then it’s off to school at Harding Township School–parents can meet at sports, the school play, or in the carpool. If you don’t have lower or middle school kids, there is always membership in one of the four houses of worship, volunteering at the library, or participation in one of the preservation or environmental groups.

The Harding Township Volunteer Fire Department hosts a myriad of events all year long. The summer kickoff steak and lobster event has been in existence since 1921. Meet your neighbors as well as the great volunteers who serve us. The annual auction of used and unwanted furniture, lawn equipment, etc. brings families together for fun and interesting purchases.

Now that you’ve received Harding’s 12 gifts, it’s easy to see why Harding is such a special place. If you are thinking of moving to Harding, give me a call and I’ll show you the rest of Harding’s gifts - beautiful homes and land waiting for new owners!

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Embracing the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift everyday!

The 10th gift is Harding’s annual Santa visit. Each year the New Vernon Volunteer Fire Department sends out a letter to the residents notifying the date of Santa’s visit to the children of New Vernon. Parents must fill out the card requesting a visit and indicating where they live. The fire department then follows the routes indicated and hands out small gifts! All have such fun and great memories to cherish from year to year.

The 11th “gift” will be Harding’s Jockey Hollow. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Embracing the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift every day!

The 11th gift is Jockey Hollow. Several months ago, I wrote a short blog about the park concentrating on its history. As noted in the earlier “gift” blogs, the area of Harding Township and its surroundings are filled with history.

But the park is also a changing, current place. Some of the events taking place this December are as follows: Visitors can see the Continental Army reliving their time in the huts, courtesy of the 2nd NJ Helms’ Company. As it was one of the coldest winters on record back in 1779-1780. Mother Nature has been cooperating for the exhibit this year with cold conditions! Also in keeping with fighting the elements, visitors can see exhibits about how families kept themselves warm and clothed. And finally, listen to storytellers entertain you with stories that the soldiers and families might have listened to while enduring the brutal winter.

The 12th “gift” will be Community Spirit. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Embracing the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift every day!

The 9th gift is Harding’s low taxes. This is particularly important when considering the cost of the house you want to purchase (as differentiated from the price of the house). Harding rates are 1.031 per $100 valuation. Compare this to similar surrounding areas such as Mendham Borough at 1.899, Mendham Township at 1.887, Bernards Township at 1.676 (2009). This translates to $5,155 per year on a $500,000 home in Harding vs. $9,495 per year in Mendham Borough.

A large portion of a municipality’s tax burden can be found in the cost of high schools. Harding does not have its own high school and uses nearby Madison High School for its students. This relieves its residents of huge maintenance, building, and educational fees.

Tax rates for all of NJ (2009) can be found by clicking here.

The 10th “gift” will be Harding’s annual Santa visit. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Embracing the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift every day!

The 8th gift is Harding’s proximity to NYC. For any urban family, making the move to rural New Jersey comes with some lifestyle changes. One of the biggest is the commute to NYC. Part of Harding’s huge appeal is that it offers the closest country living to NYC without sacrificing acreage or beauty.

By train, residents can use the Morristown, Convent Station, Basking Ridge or Lyons train station, depending on which side of Harding they live. The NJ Transit Mid-town Direct goes to Penn Station and the train time ranges from 56 minutes to under 90. This, of course, depends on your departure station.

If the train is not for you, driving to the Park and Ride or non-stop through the Lincoln or Holland Tunnels is an option, as is bus service via Lakeland Bus Lines.

Happy commuting!

The 9th “gift” will be Harding’s low taxes. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Embracing the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift everyday!

The 7th gift is Harding’s H istorical Society. It is located in the Tunis-Ellicks house on Village Road. Built in 1795, the Tunis-Ellicks house was originally owned by George Mitchell. In 1938 it was sold to Silas D. Tunis and then in 1978 the house and gardens were rejuvenated by the citizens of Harding. Today, it is the headquarters for the Historical Society and the gardens are maintained by the New Vernon Garden Club.

The house museum boasts an 18th century open-hearth kitchen. Outside is an 18th century parlor garden with 120 types of herbs, perennials, and shrubs. The second floor is a museum that showcases historical aspects of the area on a rotating basis. The home was recently the site of the 27th annual antique show preview party. 

The 8th “gift” will be Harding’s proximity to NYC. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Embracing the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift everyday!

The 6th gift (and the first time it is on the list) is Harding’s new library which is called The Kemmerer Library Harding Township. It is a privately funded library and Harding residents have been instrumental in building and supporting it. At a cost of approximately $6 million dollars, the library is named after John L. Kemmerer 3rd whose family foundation donated close to $1 million dollars for its construction.

The library supports and caters to all age groups. Children can find activities and reading groups on the main floor, adults can borrow books, attend reading groups, or participate in Yoga classes, and teens can find a quiet place to read and write a paper. There is wireless throughout the building.

The 7th “gift” will be Harding’s Historical Society. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Embracing the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift everyday!

Harding Township’s beautiful Bayne Park is the fifth gift. Located at the corner of Blue Mill Road and Glen Alpin in the center of New Vernon, it offers beautiful vistas every day and season to passersby, as well as great fun for park visitors.

At this time of year, residents eagerly anticipate ice skating. Harding creates two large rectangular ponds and then floods them. (No danger of thin ice here.) Spur of the moment hockey games can be seen when the temperature is low enough to freeze the water. Look for the “ice skating today” sign, lace up, and enjoy old-fashioned fun with the family.

The spring brings fishing, blankets on the grass, and beautiful scenery. Truly one of the most special gifts!

The 6th “gift” will be Harding’s new library. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Embracing the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift everyday!

Harding Township’s beautiful bridle paths are the fourth gift. Look anywhere in Harding and see beautiful horses and riders in the fields and crossing or traveling down a road. Barns, paddocks, and trails all contribute to making Harding a wonderful place to ride.

The Harding Township/Green Village Bridle Path Association is active in Harding Township. The organization is committed to trail maintenance, horse safety and health, and the rural character of the area. There are family fun shows, an annual Dressage show, and picnics for all.

The 5th “gift” will be Harding’s Bayne Park. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Continuing in the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift everyday!

Harding Township’s commitment to the land is the third gift. Carrying on the original vision of the Harding founders in keeping Harding Township open and bucolic, the Harding Land Trust has worked to preserve almost 303 acres of land and streams since 1990. The first project was 56 acres of open field, now known as Margett’s Field, on Blue Mill Road. The work continues preserving and saving land every year.
 

Take a ride through Harding and delight in the spectacular seasonal views and vistas. You will want to come home to this special place every night!
 

The fourth “gift” will be Harding’s bridle paths. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Still in the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift everyday!

Harding Township’s rich history is the second gift. Tens of thousands of years ago, the area was covered by a glacial lake. When it finally drained, the area now known as the Great Swamp remained. In the early 1700s, the rich soil sustained the growth of a strong agricultural community, along with fishing and hunting. Tracts of woods near Jockey Hollow were later bought by Morristown residents for wood supply, and as recently as 15 years ago still existed.

New York City residents, desirous of cooler areas in the summer, bought large expanses of land and set up farms and beautiful estates. The next step was to preserve the area’s rural feeling and character, and so in 1922 the town’s residents created Harding Township, named after President Warren G. Harding. To this day, residents still conserve the rural character of Harding’s streams and land through the Harding Land Trust.

The third “gift” will be Harding’s Glen Alpin. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

In the spirit of the season, I want to share with you all the wonderful gifts of Harding Township, NJ. Look for one gift everyday!

The first gift is Harding’s beauty. Located between Jockey Hollow Park and the Great Swamp in Morris County, Harding boasts beautiful rolling hills, meadows, and bucolic settings that can easily out vie the most beautiful areas in New Jersey. New York City commuters come home to peace and quiet, usually in about an hour.

Below is a classic winter scene in Bayne Park, located in the center of the township and open to the public. Gorgeous!

The second “gift” will be Harding’s rich history. Open it up next!

PS- Don’t forget to read my other blogs below that may have more extensive information.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

The quiet and quaint rural town of Peapack/Gladstone has always been known for its estate and horse farms of the wealthy, where they still engage in fox hunting. However, most of the residents live less ostentatiously in charming antique homes and beautiful Colonials. Many residents are young and well established, and commute to New York City from its two train stations.

Several homes are on the market presently. However, I would like to focus on one Colonial in particular which was built in 1985 and is located in one of the most desirable neighborhoods of the town. Its architecture is unique from most of the other Colonials because the owner wanted a home reminiscent of a Southern Colonial. Properly named by its owner, “Southern Comfort,” the exterior boasts 2 front porches on both the first and second levels. The owner has spent many precious moments enjoying the views of the neighborhood and landscape. The home has 5 bedrooms, 2½ baths and a cozy family room with a floor-to-ceiling fieldstone fireplace. Every room has 7 ft. Anderson windows that delightfully capture nature’s views. The owner had the builder locate the home in the center of its level, picturesque 1.8± acres, affording privacy in the front and back of the home. This home has been priced to give the buyer an excellent investment at $727,600.

Come enjoy a fall drive through town to experience the colorful and majestic shade trees. Peapack/Gladstone is a choice area to live in with its excellent school system, peaceful surroundings and easy commute to New York City by train or major highways. Please give me a call with any questions concerning “Southern Comfort” or the beautiful town of Peapack/Gladstone.

Posted by:  Bella Wilgus

Kids love Halloween–the mystery, the costumes, the freedom outside at night, and most of all the candy! But if you are a parent, like me, who tries hard to balance all that fun with safety you need some quick tips that you and your kids can follow to make it the best Halloween ever! If you can arrange an evening with some of their friends whose parents all subscribe to your rules, everyone is happier!

I divide these tips into 3 sections, as it’s easier to focus on them this way: candy, trick-or-treating, and costumes.

Again, trick-or-treating with friends is always best. It leaves someone home to hand out candy, someone with whom to switch off responsibility, and someone to help with the discipline and control.

Here’s hoping your Halloween is a fun and unique experience for all! If you have any more tips, please email me! Trick or Treat!

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

On September 23, 2010 the NAR (National Association of Realtors) released the national “Existing Home Sales Report.” At the same time, Jeffrey Otteau, President, The Otteau Valuation Group, released NJ statistics. All statistics are quoted from these two organizations.

Month over month: 

Nationally: August 2010 sales increased 7.6% over July 2010 sales.

Statewide in NJ: statistics have not yet been released

Northeast: August 2010 sales increased 7.9% over July 2010 sales.

Year over year:

Nationally: August 2010 sales were 19% below sales in August 2009.

Statewide in NJ: August 2010 contract sales were 25% below contract sales in August 2009. This decrease is 2 points better than the June and July -27% decreases. Not dramatically better, but not plummeting!
 

When looking at year over year statistics, it is important to remember that the First-Time Homebuyers tax credit stimulus was in place at that time in 2009, and it was set to expire on November 30th, 2009. This artificially pushed buyers into a buying mode perhaps earlier than they would have normally bought in order to qualify for the credit. In August 2010, there was no stimulus- just the market working on correcting itself back to normal levels. (The extension of the expiration date of the homebuyer’s credit and the enlargement of its scope will continue to skew the numbers for several more months until the free market can correct itself.)

Frankly, the numbers are not where they need to be to strongly indicate a comeback in the market. However, they do indicate that it is still an advantageous time to buy based on the fact that interest rates continue to be low making it cheaper to buy than a few years ago, high inventory levels offer a big selection (NJ is still looking at a 13.4 months of supply vs. a normal of 5-6 months, and housing prices are still low).

If you are a seller, it is still crucial to price your home correctly at the outset. With so much inventory available, an unrealistic initial list price will lead to your home being overlooked, stale and unsold.

There is no crystal ball to project the real estate performance over the next few months, but adherence to the basics and knowledge of your town’s market trends will continue to be key in making the best decisions. Call Turpin to help!

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

October is a wonderful month to take the kids outside and find great fun in beautiful weather. It is also a time when kids are thinking of pumpkins, cider, mystery and Halloween! So, if you are looking for a kid-friendly, one-day adventure, visit Wightman’s Farms on Route 202 in Harding Township, Morris County.

The family farm sells fruits and vegetables from their own land, as well as (but not limited to) wonderful pies, sinful donuts, and, in my opinion, some of the best mozzarella cheese around! In-season flowers, plants, and Christmas trees round out a big selection!

But in October, the Farm comes alive with families visiting to pick apples and peaches, take hayrides through the orchards and fields, and to take on the challenges of the hay maze or the giant rope maze. There is a maze for all ages!

Click here for directions, hours, and all of their offerings. Don’t forget to bring home a pumpkin for the doorstep on Halloween!

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

The Summit Medical Group, which boasts some of the top doctors in New Jersey according to New Jersey Monthly and Inside Jersey magazines is holding their first ever Live Well Sports and Health Festival at their Berkley Heights campus, 1 Diamond Hill Road, on Sunday, October 3rd from 12-4pm. This free event, being held rain or shine, is open to the public and features indoor and outdoor activities for the whole family, including:

• Golf Simulator and Putting Challenge
• Sports Performance and Injury Prevention Counseling
• Exercise and Nutrition Programs
• Makoto Fitness Training
• Rock Climbing Wall
• Baseball and Lacrosse Cages
• Soccer Drills and Skills
• Hockey Plyometric Training and Shot Station
• Table Tennis
• Tai Chi Instruction
• Hay Maze
• Face Painting and Other Artists
• Music and Refreshments

In addition, Olympic gymnast Shannon Miller will be promoting her Foundation which fights against childhood obesity and Olympic fencer Tim Morehouse will be discussing nutrition and training for his upcoming London Olympics in 2012.

Posted by:  Nadine Gelinas-Coffey

Whether you’ve just finished getting your kids back to school, or you have a child who will be starting Kindergarten next year, now is the time to start investigating the local area Independent schools. While many of the towns in Morris and Somerset County boast top rated schools, for some families, Independent schools are a better fit. Independent schools typically offer smaller class room sizes, more individual attention, rigorous academics and well rounded arts and athletic programs. Fortunately, the area offers a multitude of excellent options and families can learn more about each school at upcoming open houses. Even if you’ve never thought about Independent schools, it is a good way to learn about the area options.

The following are open houses scheduled:

• Chatham:
  Chatham Day School- Pre K-8th Coeducational- November 20th 10am

• Far Hills:
  Far Hills Country Day-Pre K-8th Coeducational-October 8th 8:30-10am, October 17th 1-3pm

• Gladstone:
  Gill St. Bernard’s School-Pre-K-12 Coeducational- October 17th 1pm

• Livingston:
  Newark Academy- 6- 8th Coeducational- October 16th 9:00-11:30am
  9-12th Coeducational- October 2nd and 30th 9:00-11:30am

• Martinsville:
  Pingry- Upper School Campus 6-12th Coeducational-November 13th 2-5pm

• Morristown:
  Delbarton School- 7-12 Boys- Saturdays during the fall by appointment
  Morristown-Beard School- 6-12th Coeducational- October 17th 1pm
  The Peck School- K-8th Coeducational- October 13th 6-8pm
  The Red Oaks School- Pre K-6th Coeducational- November 13th 9:45-12pm 

• Short Hills:
  Far Brook- Pre K-8th Coeducational- October 26th 8:30-12pm
  The Pingry School- Lower School Campus only K-5 Coeducational- October 6th 8:30-11am

• Summit:
  Kent Place School- Pre K- Coeducational- October 16th 9:30-11am
  K-5th -Girls- October 13th 9:00-11am
  6-12th -Girls-October 17th 1:00-3pm
  Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child- K-6th Coeducational- October 20th 9:15-11am
  7-12th Girls- October 24th 1:30-3:30pm
  Oratory Preparatory School- 7-12th -Boys- October 3rd 1-3pm, October 27th 6:30-8:30pm

Posted by:  Nadine Gelinas-Coffey

The land that is 685 Mt. Kemble Avenue in Harding Township was originally part of a 1,250-acre estate purchased by Peter Kemble in 1751. A portion of the estate was sold to Henry Hoyt, son of a prominent New York merchant, who built the original “Glen Alpin” house and named it Mt. Kemble. In 1885, it was sold to David McAlpin, a wealthy tobacco merchant, who made additions to the home and renamed it “Glen Alpin.” The “Glen Alpin” house was originally built in 1847 in the Gothic Revival architectural style. Gothic Revival architecture is an early version of Victorian architecture, with notable characteristics of gingerbread trim and steep gabled roofs.

The 262-acre property was subdivided and sold off over the years, 124 acres of which was donated to the US government and forms part of the Morristown National Park.

The original home sits on 9.57 acres at the corner of Tempe Wick Road and is owned by the Township of Harding. The Glen Alpin Conservancy will be holding a public open house on Sunday, September 12th from 2pm-4pm when you can view the architectural details that make this house a treasure worth preserving.

Posted by:  Nadine Gelinas-Coffey

The original structure built in 1940 on 18 Horseshoe Bend Road was a two-story brick residence. The transformation, which was started by a previous owner, was completed by the current owners over the course of several years. With an artist’s eye, each room was thoroughly thought out, high end materials were selected and plans were designed and redesigned. Amongst the projects undertaken was the addition of a 4-car garage, mudroom, laundry room and great room. The home’s exterior and interior barn board was removed and replaced with modern materials. Expansion/renovation of the master bedroom suite created a lavish bathroom, adding his and her closets and an exercise/sitting room with a private deck. The dated solarium was replaced with a gorgeous sunroom adjacent to a courtyard patio. A pool house was constructed along with the complete renovation of the pool.

In the end, they created a home that not only shows the personality and style of the owners, but respected and enhanced the property. It is now the perfect setting for entertaining. If the Talmages could see what they created, I am sure they would approve!

This home is currently being offered for sale. Please click here for more information.

Posted by:  Nadine Gelinas-Coffey

Summer is almost here and what better way to kick it off than a good, old fashioned carnival!

The Chester Volunteer Fire Company #1 will hold their annual carnival at Chubb Park in Chester, New Jersey from June 22nd – 26th.

The carnival opens at 6:30pm and runs until around 10pm. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday are wristband nights, with the purchase of a wrist band, you receive unlimited rides!

On Friday, June 25th, a fireworks display will begin at 10pm.

Posted by:  Nicole Atorino

If you were one of the many homebuyers who took advantage of the Homebuyers Tax Credit this spring, there isn’t much time left to get it all done! The time between April 30th (when you had to be under contract) and June 30th (when you have to close) seemed like a very long time, but it’s not! There has been talk (and some defeated legislation) to extend the closing date for two months-but don’t count on this.

Contact your lawyer and real estate agent to develop a plan for the completion of the following steps towards closing:

Most importantly, you must obtain a mortgage. There has been a flood of applications, and although banks are prioritizing Homebuyer Tax Credit applications, make sure you are on top of the process every step of the way. As with everything, communication is crucial. Ask your lender ahead of time what is needed, get it to them swiftly, and then follow up to make sure all is received. Double check the checklist!

Next, follow up on inspections. By now you should have scheduled one and received the analysis back. If there is remediation, make sure the seller is addressing the issues on a timely basis.

Hand in hand with inspections are the smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide certifications. Each town requires something different, so verify what the rules are and that these are also being done. If there are other outstanding issues, such as missing documentation for oil tanks, permits for work done on the house, Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or Certificate of Continued Occupancy (CCO) if the town requires, or other contingencies, etc., follow up!

Finally, create an artificial close date with the seller. This will be the goal date for completion of all issues, and will give you a little wiggle room in case something goes awry.

Good luck and congratulations!

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

In spite of all the forecasts about higher mortgage rates happening in the latter part of 2010 (up to 6%), the unexpected strengthening of the dollar against the Euro has pushed rates down to a new low as investors are now investing in US bonds. Once yields on treasury bonds lowered, this triggered a decline in mortgage rates.

According to the Wall Street Journal article by Nick Timiraos on May 24, 2010, rates averaged 4.84% last week ending May 20, 2010. Rates were around 5.27% in April.
 

Why is this important?

Remember my previous blogs? I explained that for every one point in increase or decline of a mortgage rate, there is a corresponding 10% increase or decline in the cost of the home. If you are a seller, you may not be forced to lower the price of your home as the monthly cost to the buyer will be less with a lower rate. (This assumes, of course, that you priced the house properly at the outset of the listing.) If you are a buyer, you can buy more house for the same monthly cost!
 

So, if you are in the real estate market either as a buyer or seller (or know someone who is), timing is of the essence! Lock in a low rate and let’s start looking at houses!

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

If you are thinking of buying or building a home in Morris, Somerset, or Hunterdon Counties, you may find that you will not have access to public water. This means that your property will require a well for drinking water. Before you close on the house (whether buying or building) the well must be tested. The primary purpose is to verify that the water is potable. Testing also tracks any changes in the status of the seven largest aquifers in New Jersey.

The following is a brief explanation of the well testing process that is in no way meant to be all you need to know!

When you buy a home, the contract will include the requirement that the well water be tested for contaminants by a state-certified water testing laboratory. This is usually at the seller’s expense. The test must be done on untreated water. This means the test must be done before the water goes through any water softener, filter, etc. The parameters covered are for contaminants such as iron, manganese, pH, nitrate, lead, etc. In addition, there is a second part of the test that focuses on bacteria, specifically total coliform bacteria. The first test is usually valid for a year and the second test for 6 months. Check with both the county and the state as you must follow all laws for both.

Once the results come back, both buyer and seller review the report. Testing and results don’t take long, but in the event remedial work or treatment needs to be done, the test should be done as soon as you go under contract. According to the law, a test in which one or more drinking standards are not met doesn’t mean the sale can’t go through. In some cases local health departments may require remediation of the water. Check with your county or township!

For more information, click on this link NJDEP Private Well Testing Act.

Posted by:  Mary Jane Benedetto

Morris County has some of the most beautiful golf courses in the country for golf enthusiasts.

Roxiticus Country Club The Club property is located within the boundaries of both Mendham and Bernardsville. The Club has a challenging 18-hole Hal Purdy designed golf course. The course stretches to 6,521 yards with a 72.5/135 course rating. A driving range, two putting greens, lob wedge area, and indoor range “tech center” are available.

Mendham Golf and Tennis Mendham Golf and Tennis Club has 320 full golf memberships. There are no required tee times, but portions of weekday mornings are set aside for certain Men’s and Women’s groups. The Golf Committee runs several tournaments per month and governs the rules and policies for equitable and enjoyable play for the members.

Morris Country Golf Club Founded in 1894, the Club was unique from the beginning as it was planned, organized and operated by women. The Club was an early member of the USGA, joining in 1895, and was the first club in New Jersey to host national championships, the US Women’s Amateur in 1896, followed two years later by the US Men’s Amateur in 1898. The present 18-hole course was laid out by the highly respected golf course architect, Seth Raynor, in 1916.

Spring Brook Country Club Spring Brook’s magnificent 18-hole golf course, sits on top of a hill overlooking Armstrong Pond. Its golf amenities include a driving range, putting green, and a fully stocked Golf Pro Shop. Established in 1921, Spring Brook’s golf course was designed by golf legend, Walter J. Travis. The championship course is enhanced by a variety of trees and foliage, which add to the natural beauty of the grounds. Its three par 3’s in a row around the pond add an unusual and interesting challenge to this magnificent course.

Turpin’s Mendham office, 973-543-7400, has listed a lovely ranch home at 230 Mountainside Road, Mendham, on 9± acres which includes a Ken Dye designed golf course with 2 greens, 4 tees, sand traps and bunkers. This allows a number of combinations, including two par 4’s. Hope to see you out on the links!

Posted by:  Nicole Atorino

Come to the Mendham Juniors Electronic Recycling Day!

Just bring your old and dated electronics to Mendham Borough Public Works at 37 Ironia Road in Mendham this Saturday, May 15, 2010 from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm.

Acceptable items include:
-  Computers (Hard drives erased by: Supreme Electronics)
-  Small Electronics
-  Desktop & Laptop Computers, Copiers,
-  Hardware, Printers, Monitors,
-  Small Household Appliances
-  Tape Recorders & Radios
-  Typewriters & Fax machines
-  Televisions of All Kinds

For answers to questions, to volunteer, or for more information, please click here.

Posted by:  Nicole Atorino

Help support the Women’s Association of Morristown Memorial Hospital.

The Women’s Association of Morristown Memorial Hospital is pleased to announce its 15th Mansion in May Designer Showcase and Garden at Fawn Hill Farm in Harding Township, New Jersey throughout May, 2010. Proceeds will be directed toward a $25 million expansion of the Emergency Department at Morristown Memorial Hospital.

Harding Township is a quiet community heralded for its privacy and true country living. Its convenient location makes it attractive for those who seek an oasis away from the city with a manageable commute. I currently have a terrific home listed in Harding Township, at 2 Fawn Hill Drive.

Details can be found by clicking on the link above, or by contacting me directly at natorino@turpinrealtors.com.

Posted by:  Nicole Atorino

Come down to the Brookside Community Center in Mendham Township on Saturday, April 24, 2010 to support the Mendham Little League at their annual fundraiser. Tickets are $60 and with your purchase you receive three drink tickets, dinner and entertainment, The Meathooks . There will also be a silent auction with many terrific items to take your chance at winning.

Mendham Little League has been in operation since 1998, when the league was created to fill the desire for organized play for girls and boys over the age of 13 in Mendham Borough and Township. Prior to this, children played in the Babe Ruth league, which offered a limited number of teams. Over 350 volunteers run this program which benefits more than 750 children. This includes managers, coaches, team parents, players, umpires and board members.

For more information and to purchase tickets, or to preview The Meathooks, please click on the links provided above. It’s going to be a great night of good food, good music and good friends, all for a good cause. Hope to see you there!

Posted by:  Nicole Atorino

On Saturday, April 3, 2010, at 2PM at the Mennen Arena in Morristown, New Jersey members of the former Delbarton and St. Joseph Regional High School hockey teams will reunite to play “the game that never was”.

The original game, to be played in 1989, was canceled due to a measles outbreak and was never rescheduled. Both teams were ultimately declared co champions. However, the debate continued as to which team would have won.

Thirty-five of the forty original players that were scheduled to compete in the 1989 NJ State championship game will reconvene to determine who deserved the title. The event, called ”Frozen Flashback” is more than just a hockey game. It is a fundraiser for the NHL’s Hockey Fights Cancer charity. Through this organization, the NHL assists community organizations and medical centers who focus on cancer research and directly assist families affected by the disease. To date, Frozen Flashback has raised over $55,000 for their cause.

For more information and to obtain tickets, visit the website link above. I am looking forward to attending with my children to reconnect with old friends, see some great hockey and support an important cause.

Posted by:Nicole Atorino

The picturesque village of Oldwick remains the historic center of Tewksbury. Located conveniently close to Interstate 78, it retains its charm and authenticity, with stately Colonial and pretty Victorian houses that are the pride and joy of their owners.

Established by English landowners in the early 1700’s, followed by settlers of German descent, the village became known as New Germantown. The Zion Lutheran church, a beautiful 1749 Greek Revival building at the crossroads of the village, became well known for its illustrious pastor for 30 years, Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, the patriarch of the Lutheran church in America. It is considered to be one of the oldest Lutheran churches in New Jersey. In the 20th century, the village was renamed Oldwick, due to anti-German sentiments during World War I.

Enjoy lunch at the Tewksbury Inn or the Oldwick General Store, just across the road, before indulging your inner child and/or your children and grandchildren at the Bunny Hole, Oldwick’s very special Easter tradition. Every Easter since 1949, the Magic Shop, on the main street in Oldwick, has been transformed into the Bunny Hole, a delightful and fanciful adventure for children to explore the bunnies’ den, which features vignettes loosely based on Beatrix Potter’s tales of Peter Rabbit. Usually installed four to five weeks before Easter, the Bunny Hole is open for one week to ten days afterwards. It has delighted local and not so local children of all ages for generations. This year is no exception and the magical scenes encompass children’s stories, featuring Alice in Wonderland (the central theme), Where the Wild Things Are, Hansel and Gretel and Winnie the Pooh, as well as Peter Rabbit in Mr. McGregor’s garden. All are artfully designed by loyal and talented volunteers. Come and be enchanted!

The Magic Shop is a whimsical gift shop located in an 18th century house in the center of this historic village. Featuring unique, hand-crafted, original gifts for the home, fine art, antiques, children’s clothing and toys, each room offers unique and beautiful merchandise for the discriminating shopper.

Posted by: Valerie Fraser

If you are interested in fine dining and a memorable experience, then Ninety Acres Culinary Center at Natirar in Peapack, New Jersey is the place to go! This 15-month old restaurant is situated on a 500 acre estate that was once owned by the King of Morocco. The estate carriage house was transformed into an exceptional restaurant by David Rockwell of the Rockwell Team. Its warm, inviting ambiance boasts rich, classic materials and design with wood floors and ceilings, butternut millwork, walnut furniture, green stressed leather seating and large windows that create a connection with the surrounding bucolic setting. The restaurant wizardry by Chef David C. Felton is unmatched. The recipes are delicious and exciting and leave your palette and well being with a blissful satisfying feeling. Complimentary carafes of bubbling and still water are at every table. The bread basket is filled with the most delectable assortment. Their creative, original cocktails incorporate ingredients indigenous to country living. Ninety Acres also has a Wine School and Cooking School and will be able to serve foods that are raised and grown on the property’s own farm. The service is simply impeccable and leaves nothing to be desired. At the end of your delightful dinner, if you should request a “doggie bag”, your server will provide you with a number tag to retrieve your food when you leave. Truly sophisticated dining you will not forget.

If you intend to move to or visit Somerset County, just know that the twin boroughs of Peapack/Gladstone has other exceptional restaurants as well, which I will discuss in future blogs.

Posted by:Bella Wilgus

Aside from location, number of bedrooms, and schools, the most important criteria for a buyer is usually the price of the house. Many say right up front in the search process, “I want to spend between X and Y dollars.” Usually, the buyer prefers the more expensive home as it has more features than they are looking for!

But in this market, it’s important to understand that rising interest rates can have a huge effect on the monthly expense of mortgage and taxes. Right now, conventional wisdom says that interest rates will go up after March 31st causing higher monthly payments and the tax credit expiration will end April 30th causing buying activity to slow down. This will result in more inventory on the market. Good old-fashioned supply and demand in play here! Both buyers and sellers must be acutely aware of the cost of the house vs. the price of the house in this time period.

Let’s look at the consequences of an interest rate increase. The general rule of thumb is that for every 1 percentage point interest rate increase, the mortgage costs approximately 10% more. That means the buyer must lower the top price he is able to pay, put more money down, or resign himself to a higher monthly payment (sellers must be willing to lower the price of the home quickly to remain a viable and competitive player in the market). Now let’s look at the consequences of increased inventory. Unless a house is priced sharply and correctly, it will not sell in a glutted marketplace. Buyers have an opportunity to make an educated lower offer, maintain the projected monthly payments they can afford, and buy the house they want (hopefully, sellers will react, with the help of their agent, to meet this problem head on and lower the price of the home).

Posted by:Mary Jane Benedetto

Bring your best poker face and come out to support Mendham Borough Schools at the Home School Association’s Annual Spring Fundraiser, “Casino Royale”. The event will be held on Saturday, March 20, 2010, from 7:00-11:00 pm at The Skylands at Randolph.

Tickets cost $60 per person and guests will enjoy a cocktail buffet and cash bar. There will be game tables to try your luck and tickets will be sold for the Silent and Chance Auction. Class donated baskets and teacher donations are a big hit and a great way to participate in the action in case lady luck leaves you flat!

Posted by:Nicole Atorino

The students at Hilltop Elementary School in Mendham Borough will put on a special performance for parents and friends on Friday, March 19, 2010. The theme is “Green, What can we do? What can I do?” and will feature a magical black light show using puppets, masks, music, rhythm and dance to raise awareness of some environmental issues such as recycling, saving trees, alternative energies, and reusing things in a creative way.

The students and teachers have been working hard to create a memorable experience and are excited to have the opportunity to show off their efforts. It’s so nice to know that our children have recognized that caring for the Earth is a serious mission for us all and are anxious to spread the word.

Posted by:Nicole Atorino

It’s hard to believe, but summer is almost upon us! The kids will be out of school and parents will want to keep them entertained and busy for those long, hot weeks! If you live in or around Harding Township, consider this great suggestion– Harding Township Day Camp, which is conveniently located at the Harding School in New Vernon.

The camp runs for a 4-week period in June/July, and you can sign your child up for all 4 weeks or 1-week intervals. This will give you plenty of time to take that August vacation and also start Back-to-School shopping, doctor’s appointments, etc.

Children in grades K through six are eligible to enroll. (Younger campers can be part of the Polliwog program which runs from 9AM to 12AM or an extended Polliwog program which runs from 9AM to 3PM.)

There are lots of available activities, including, but not limited to, sports, computers, swimming, arts and crafts, and drama productions. Swimming lessons and science classes may be taken at a nominal additional cost. My favorite part (having sent my child to camp for many years) is the three times per week lunch that the camp offers, included in the fee.

For more information, check out their website link above.

Have a great summer!

Posted by:Mary Jane Benedetto

Mountain View School in Mendham Borough has been selected as a “New Jersey Middle School to Watch” in the state’s selection of just THREE schools statewide. This program is used ‘to highlight middle schools that make an extra effort to support sustained learning.’ The school’s programs will now be shared with schools in New Jersey as well as on a national scale to promote inventive approaches to grade school, middle school, and classroom education that focus on creative models that help all students achieve better results.

The schools were judged on three sets of criteria:

Social equality - do the programs provide every student with high caliber teachers and resources and offer fair opportunities for all?; academic excellence – do the school programs challenge all students?; developmental responsiveness - are the programs perceptive to the unique needs and developmental challenges of early adolescence?

Mountain View was recognized for high achievement in all three of these areas! Visit the official Schools to Watch website to learn more! As the mom of two Mountain View students, I couldn’t be more proud!

Posted by:Nicole Atorino

Just the other day, someone asked me what the difference is between a short sale and foreclosure. I thought that I should write a brief blog about the difference and some advantages and disadvantages about the two. As usual, please consult your lawyer or lending agency for all the facts pertaining to your situation as New Jersey rules and laws can vary from other states.

Briefly, a short sale is a sale of your home for less money than you owe your lender. This is also known as being “underwater.” However, you can not undertake a short sale without the permission of your bank or mortgage company. Permission to sell is granted based on many factors, such as hardship, and this must be clearly demonstrated to the mortgagee. Prior to this spring, short sales took a long time to complete, but new guidelines require that any offer must be accepted or rejected within 10 days by the banks. Conducting a short sale is much like a regular offering-your home is listed by an agent on MLS, potential buyers come and look at it and offers come in.

The biggest disadvantage is that your credit score will be affected, although not as badly as in a foreclosure. An advantage is that you will be able to purchase another home more quickly, often after 2 years. And, depending on your particular circumstances, the lender may require payback of the shortfall amount.

A foreclosure procedure is caused by an inability to keep up with mortgage payments. In this case, the borrower/homeowner gives up rights to the home through a complicated legal process that varies from state to state, and ultimately, the mortgagee owns the property. At that point they are able to sell it and try to regain whatever losses that occurred.

Dramatic drops in credit scores as a result of foreclosure are the biggest disadvantage. This could remain on your credit report for many years. The ability to buy another house could be severely postponed for many years as well.

Certainly, the best piece of advice for anyone is to consult a lawyer about your options and possible results. If you are in a short sale, a real estate agent experienced in dealing with short sales will be a major help in guiding you and getting all the paperwork done correctly and in a timely manner.

Posted by:Mary Jane Benedetto

Last week I described what a septic system is and how it works. This week I’ll discuss proper care and management which should extend the life and function of a system. Regular maintenance requires pumping the system to remove the sludge. This is recommended to be done on a regular basis. How you use and treat the system, the number of people in your household, and other factors can result in a range of maintenance time frames. Some companies recommend that if the sludge and scum is equal to one third of the tank capacity, it’s time to pump.

Remember: The goal is to maintain the organic organisms in the system that break down and absorb the waste. Excessive use of caustic cleaners can compromise your system. Warning signs of potential problems can be excessive water around your system or sinks and toilets backing up. The system ultimately disperses the treated water into the soil, so it’s crucial that it is in proper working order from a health and safety standpoint.

Here’s a short list of what not to do:

• Don’t use a garbage disposal.
• Don’t dump oil and grease down the sink drain.
• Don’t flush non-biodegradable items down the toilet. This includes disposable diapers, cat sand, and paper towels.
• Don’t take long showers or do many loads of laundry each day.
• Don’t pour paint, pesticides, and other toxic or hazardous substances down the drain.

Some other things to watch out for are:

• Drainage of surface water over the system area.
• Landscaping or planting trees over the system as the roots can grow in and clog or rupture the field or tank.
• Leaky faucets or sinks.
• Improper design or installation of the system in addition to poor soil that doesn’t allow proper drainage.
• Creation of an impermeable cover (such as a parking area) over the system area.

An extensive explanation of the entire process can be found at www.nj.gov or www.state.nj.us.

Always work with a reputable professional whether doing maintenance as a homeowner or conducting an inspection of the system as a potential buyer. Whether buying or selling, an efficient and safe system goes a long way towards maintaining your home’s value!

Posted by:Mary Jane Benedetto

If you are looking to buy a home in areas within Somerset, Morris or Hunterdon County you may find that the home you love uses a septic system instead of a sewer line. If you are selling in these areas, your buyer has the right to conduct an inspection of the system and the results can have an impact on the sale.

A septic system is located on your property and you are responsible for it. The rules concerning allowable size, design, and construction are governed by the Standards for Individual Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems, N.J.A.C. 7:9A (aka Chapter 199). The Department of Health is responsible for enforcement of this in each township.

The typical septic system is made up of 4 main components: the pipe from the home, a septic tank, a distribution box and the drainage field. Its design and positioning will depend on your property’s characteristics.

The tank can range between 1000 and 2000 gallons, and is typically made up of 1 or 2 chambers with1 or 2 manhole covers. Townships and municipalities will have specific regulations regarding the size and layouts. The overall size is mandated by the number of bedrooms in the house.

The initial reduction of waste happens in the tank. The solids settle and should be anaerobically digested creating sludge, and the liquid ferments flowing out of baffles into the distribution box. This box evenly distributes the flow of the liquid throughout the drainage field.

The next component is the leach or drainage field. The liquid flowing to the field passes through pipes that are perforated and then is eliminated by physical, chemical and biological processes into the soil.  At that point, the water is purified.

An extensive explanation of the entire process can be found at: http://www.nj.gov/dep/dwq/pdf/septicmn.pdf or http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dwq/owm_home.htm#works.

Whether you are buying or selling, it’s best to know about the components and their importance to the overall function of the system. Next time, we will talk about the maintenance of your system and why it’s important.

Posted by:Mary Jane Benedetto

New Jersey Monthly Magazine has just published its “Best Places to Live 2010” article, and Chatham Township is ranked #2 (Bedminster Township is ranked #1.) The data is compiled by Monmouth University’s Polling Institute. They consider eight categories which best represent the quality of life in New Jersey’s 566 municipalities: population growth, home values, property taxes, land development, employment, crime rate, school performance, and proximity to services. Household income was not included, and home values were measured by the rate of increase or decrease over three years rather than by current prices.

In March of 2008, New Jersey Monthly Magazine ranked Chatham Township #1 once again. James O’Neill, the Superintendent of Schools for the School District of the Chathams, was quoted as saying “Chatham is a very unique place to live … there is a disproportionate number of terrific kids and talented teachers …and dedicated parents who spend an inordinate amount of time supporting the district. Chatham schools excel in academics, in the arts, and in athletics.”

The State Department of Education released its “School Report Card” on February 9, 2010, and once again Chatham schools came out on top. Chatham High School - a nationally ranked “Blue Ribbon School” - had the top SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) scores in Morris County, and ranked 22nd in the state.

Even CNN’s Money Magazine was impressed with Chatham – in 2005 - naming the combined towns of Borough and Township the ninth best place to live in America! With the opening of New Jersey Transit’s Midtown Direct train service to Manhattan in the late 1990s, land values in Chatham shot up.

Chatham continues to be recognized as one of the top towns in New Jersey, and a great place to live!

Posted by:Cynthia Edgar

The Mendhams and Morris County have had tremendous foresight in setting aside preserved land over the last several decades. One of the most rewarding benefits is a system of hiking trails that might be the best in New Jersey. All are open to foot and horse traffic. Trails owned or maintained by Morris County almost always allow mountain bikes as well. None are open to motorized traffic.

Winter trails can be especially rewarding, with long views of vistas and wildlife with the leaves off the trees. After our ample recent snowfalls, snowshoes and cross-country skis add to the fun. There are many parking spots at trail access points, and most are quickly plowed out after storms.

Stay tuned for detailed information on individual trails in future blogs.

Posted by:Brian Hays

The Mendham Junior Women’s Club (MJWC) will hold a membership drive with a ‘Girl’s Night Out’ at Jane’s Nails, Main Street, Mendham on Thursday, February 24th at 7:00 pm. Come out and get a manicure, pedicure and have a glass of wine while you learn about the exciting things they have lined up for this year.

The MJWC is a great way to get involved in the community and meet some fun, interesting women. Founded in 1957, the non-profit organization has brought the young women of Mendham and the surrounding areas together to host educational, charitable and civic activities. When I first moved into town, I found the MJWC a terrific way to meet like-minded moms. It was a great way to combine the need for a social outlet with the satisfaction of community service. Between the many community based events, from running the sack races on Labor Day to hosting our annual blood drive, I fostered a real connection to our town and the needs of others, while making some great friends in the process!

Posted by:Nicole Atorino

In these uncertain political and economic times, it is not unusual for the stress of life to start to get you down. Families and individuals are under more pressure to keep it all together and stay afloat. The demands of work and school, as well as social pressures, can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed.

Kathleen Andrews, a licensed clinical social worker with a MA in Social Work, is the mother of two boys who lives in Mendham and has started Therapy-Core, a private counseling practice that has two main areas of focus. Through individual therapy, offered to children, teens or adults, Kathleen hopes to offer some relief of some such issues as stress, anxiety, anger, and sadness, and assist with living a more rewarding life.

In couples therapy, Kathleen tries to deal with specific issues like communication, financial conflict, family values, intimacy or parenting issues, to name a few.

With offices in Morristown, Cedar Knolls and Chatham, she is easily accessible. Check out her website/blog above or call 973-270-5757 for more information.

Posted by:Nicole Atorino

Since declines in home prices have resulted in increased appeals for property assessments, both Mendham Borough and Mendham Township have done a reassessment of all properties.

The result should be greater fairness for all residents. However, lower assessments do not mean lower taxes. A new tax rate will be established by the middle of the year, and the expectation is that the average tax bill will be no lower, and will probably be modestly higher. The total cost of running government and schools tends to increase each year, and that cost has to be apportioned.

The deadline has passed for appeals of the new assessments directly to the firm that did the work. However, appeals to the county, which normally must be filed by April 1st, can be filed up to May 1st.

Posted by:Brian Hays