Lois Martin DeCaro, Realtor®
SUNRISE AT HANOVER... RENTED!
KING STREET IN MORRISTOWN... RENTED! “Ask me about REDUCING your cost to sell!”
No. 16 Vol. 2
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NJ State Broker of Record Fathom Realty NJ Licensed in NJ and FL
www.LoisDeCaro.com www.FathomRealty.com LDeCaro@FathomRealty.com
Cell: 973-441-7080
“I’ve marketed and sold hundreds of homes in NJ, yours could be next!“
February 2018
Community Garden Grows Healthier Living In Hanover
H
By Anya Bochman anover Township is concentrating on healthy living through a multipronged approach that incorporates educational initiatives, community partnerships and innovative programs. The effort is paying off, especially with the opening of Stoney Brook Community Farm and Garden since its ribbon cutting and ceremony held last September. Described as “an integral part of an approach to a healthy lifestyle which includes employees and residents as well as [local] businesses,” the garden was financed in part by a $1,000 grant from Jersey Power and Light. The funding, officially titled the “2016 Community Grant,” was integral in a twoyear development of the garden from a vacant strip of land into what is now a thriving 140-plot community farm. Converting the newly designated parkland facility was a joint effort from local non-profit organizations, businesses, township government and the community. Denise Brennan, Hanover Township superintendent of Recreation and Parks Administration, described JPL as “integral” to the process, and stated that “they were there from the beginning.” Among the garden additions enabled by the grant, the township is considering expanding the facility to include a gazebo or pavilion. As the community farm and
Salem Drive School fifth grade student Jane Chan (center of front row) holds the banner with her contest-winning logo. Holding the banner with her are Superintendent of the Board of Education Michael Wasko (left) and Hanover Township Mayor Ron Francioli (right). Members of the Hanover Township Stoney Brook Community Farm and Garden Committee, Hanover Township art teachers and contest finalists are also pictured. Photo courtesy/Denise Brennan.
garden began its first year of operation, it became apparent that the complete lack of shade in the area could be a problem, giving administration the idea for the gazebo or similar construction. Speaking of the general purpose of Stoney Brook, Brennan emphasized the aspect of community cooperation, bringing various facets of the township together in a common gardening space. “We encourage the community to come out,” Brennan stated. “It’s been a great
source of pride for everyone [in the township].” For their part, Hanover residents can use the 140 plots to improve their quality of life through increased physical activity, better nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices. The school district has its own dedicated plots for the Board of Education, and Brennan expressed hope that the future construction of the gazebo will provide an area for schools to conduct classes, and for continued on page 6