Guide Me Home to Chatham, NJ - Home

Chatham Recreation

2010-08-18T20:39:00Z

Chatham Recreation offers a wide variety of activities for children and adults.

Fall - Soccer, football, flag football, field hockey, and cheerleading.

Winter - Basketball, traveling basketball, skiing, wrestling, ice hockey (independently sponsored), men’s basketball and women’s volleyball.

Spring - Baseball, softball, T-ball, lacrosse, traveling-soccer (independently sponsored) and golf.

Summer - Traveling baseball, and softball, men’s and women’s softball, tennis, and a variety of sports camps and youth activities.

Chatham Borough Recreation Areas

Shepard Kollock Park - Located off Parrott Mill Road. Covered picnic area, plus an all purpose field, baseball, softball, boat launch to the Passaic River, and playground area.

Memorial Park - Located off North Passaic Avenue. Baseball, softball, basketball, playground area, picnic tables, Chatham Municipal Pool (badges are sold only at the pool during posted pool hours.)

Garden Park - Located off Main Street adjacent to the Middle School. Tennis practice boards, six tennis courts, basketball and playground area.

Lum Avenue Fields - Located off Lum Avenue and adjacent to the Chatham Train Station.

Baseball, softball, and all purpose fields

Stanley Park - Located off River Road adjacent to the Passaic River. Picnic area with grill.

Detailed Recreation Brochures are available at the Chatham Borough Municipal Building at 54 Fairmount Avenue. For additional information, please go to www.chathamrecreation.org, or call: 973-635-7066.

Posted by: Cynthia Edgar

Where to find geological history in Madison Borough

2010-08-06T20:04:00Z

Where you can find geological history in Madison Borough?

I remember when my children were little and I wanted to show them interesting things in the area, it was a true labor of love to uncover tidbits to share. Yes, I’m showing my age, that was before the internet, now the kids are in their 20’s and living on their own. So here are a few nuggets for you to share while chauffeuring your children to various events.

Madison is located on a ridge spanning from Summit to Morristown. The glacier which melted around the ridge was named, “The Wisconsin Glacier” which was formed some 10,000 years ago. The wetlands now known as the Great Swamp are on either side of the ridge. After the glacier melted, Madison was a gigantic lake: Lake Passaic. It’s difficult to imagine Madison under water with the “Hill Section” as little islands poking through, but it’s all true.

According to Rosenet Community Network for Madison there are still some “potholes” to be found from the huge chunks of ice from the melting glacier. The largest pot hole can be found on Glenwild Road. Located on Drew University’s property to be exact. Morris County acquired it and now presents as Public Parkland. The Moraine is its proper name.

The ridge which was formed produced a natural bypass for travel, now what we know as Kings Road. Prior to that, the Lenape Indians used this route and called it the Minisink Trail.

Morris County is steeped in history of all kinds. As their layers are revealed, new perspectives come to light. Explore and enjoy all this land has to offer.

Future blogs on the subject.

Until then,

Caroline

Posted by: Caroline Vanleer

Summertime in Morris County & Beyond

2010-07-30T16:02:27Z

Even though we’ve had the hottest summer in recent memory, I still love the summer time. I love the way the shade trees line the streets. I love the sound of kids at the pool. It seems like endless enjoyment can be had just jumping into the pool, swimming, and playing Marco Polo for hours.

I love the smell and freshness of a summer day, garden’s in full bloom, fresh cut grass, butterfly bushes covered with swallowtails, and darting hummingbirds. Our area towns; Madison, Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, Summit, Harding Township and Bernardsville are all well situated for a quick getaway or vacation. There are many pools, parks and golf clubs in these areas to enjoy as well.

In other parts of our area, the Jersey shore beckons to the south, or the great city of Philadelphia, home of the Phillies. North in the Bronx, you will find the Yankees, the famous Bronx Zoo, the Catskill Mountains and destinations in New England. The east will take you to New York City, Long Island beaches and the Mets. West on Route 80 offers great rafting and wonderful Pocono Mountain destinations.

Barbecue’s, baseball, ice cream and movies also remind me of summer. A little closer to home is the Somerset Patriots minor league baseball stadium.

There is no greater summer pleasure than relaxing in a special spot to read a book. While most students have summer reading lists, a host of titles may be found at your local library. Why not ‘check out’ the Madison, Harding, Summit and Chatham libraries.

Posted by: Lois Olmstead

Madison Has Outdoor Concerts

2010-07-29T16:59:20Z

Did you know that Madison has FREE OUTDOOR CONCERTS?

You’ve got that right, FREE to the public. To quote, “Bring a blanket or a chair for a free outdoor music concert on the lawn of the Museum featuring various toe tapping musical groups. Rain or Shine!”

Where: Museum of Early Trades & Crafts

For more info, call 973-377-2982x14

It’s a “Kid Friendly Event.”

Madison is full of pleasant surprises. Get the official MADISON calendar of events.

See you next time,

Posted by: Caroline Vanleer

Take IT or Leave IT PART V

2010-07-27T11:27:00Z

How does your house look in the public eye?

This is the last of the series; Take IT or Leave IT.

Whenever a client trusts Turpin Real Estate, Inc. to market their property our overall goal is to have the house prepared in such a manner that the BUYER will TAKE yours and LEAVE the competition behind.

Often homeowners become accustom to the way their home looks and feels. That’s a natural positive response. When the time comes to put the house on the market and move on, what seems natural is not.

Preparing your home can be a challenge because of the emotions and personal connections. Imagine yourself as a perspective buyer and walk around your home, take some pictures while you are at it. Ask yourself, “What do I see?” Are you seeing a lot of personal items? Multiple objects on surfaces such as book shelves, table tops, piano and kitchen counters? If the answer is yes, then you have some work to do.

Recently clients were looking at homes in Chatham and Madison. The question was asked, “Why did you purchase one over the other?” The answer was simple, “We couldn’t imagine where our furniture would go because there was too much going on in the other house.”

Buyers more often than not, get involved with items that they see while previewing homes for purchase. They need to focus on the house, not the items. As beautiful as they may be, our advise it to start packing.

The reduction of items is the number one necessity for a seller. If you get stuck, I may be able to help you out.

Encourage the buyers to take your home not to leave it.

Hope you have enjoyed the series.

Posted by: Caroline Vanleer

Chatham, New Jersey Community Theater

2010-07-08T00:00:00Z

Chatham, New Jersey has its very own theatre, where live productions of Broadway plays (and original works) are performed each season by the Chatham Community Players.

Many local residents participate in the productions. The Players began in 1922 at the Parish House of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Chatham. Their first production was “the Finger of God,” followed by the balcony scene from “Romeo and Juliet.” In 1930, the Players moved to the Lum Avenue School. Props and scenery were stored in a barn on Fairmount Avenue, until it burned down in 1948.

In the early 1960’s, the Players moved again to Chatham High School, and stored props and scenery at the Chatham Women’s Club on the corner of Washington Avenue and Main Street. Finally, in 1967, they purchased the American Legion Hall on North Passaic Avenue, where they are located today. They completely renovated the space, and opened their doors for great community theater!

The original mission of the Chatham Community Players was to “produce high quality theater for a diverse audience, while elevating the standard of excellence, and providing a creative outlet with educational opportunities and outreach programs.” Today, the Players consist of five different groups: The Chatham Players Mainstage, Fantasy Theater, Jersey Voices, Outreach, and the Joint Theater (Intern) Program.

Funding for the Chatham Community Players has been made possible in part by funds from the Arts Council of Morris Area through the New Jersey Council on the Arts.

Posted by: Cynthia Edgar

Summer happenings in Madison, New Jersey that you simply can’t miss!

2010-07-02T00:00:00Z

The Madison Farmers Market is now open on Waverly Place every Thursday from 2:30-7pm. Stop by and check out the fresh local produce, plus they have added a few surprises this year!

The schedule for farmer’s markets in other towns may be found by clicking here.

A rare treat in Madison is the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. This summer they are running several interesting shows. Click on the link above for more details about the entire season. I did want to highlight the outdoor presentation which is running from June 23 to August 1. This years’ play is Moliere’s: The Servant of Two Masters. The show is performed at the Greek amphitheatre on the College of Saint Elizabeth campus in Morris Township right next door to downtown Madison. Last year, we saw people picnicking before the show, playing Frisbee and just enjoying the night while waiting for the show to start. Some people brought pizza, while others went upscale with chairs, blankets and more elaborate food choices. It pays to get there early to claim a spot on one of the rows surrounding the stage as it is first-come first-served. The atmosphere was friendly with some late arrivals bringing food to their seats. If you keep the weather in mind, bring a blanket to sit on and food/drink, you may be pleasantly surprised by a live performance under the stars. We look forward to going again this year.

Until next time,

Posted by: Lois Olmstead

Local Farmer's Markets in Chatham, NJ

2010-07-01T13:57:11Z

In an effort to “go green” and eat fresher food, many people are shopping at local Farmer’s Markets.

These Farmer’s Markets provide conventionally and organically grown “Jersey Fresh” fruits and vegetables to the local community. They benefit the consumer by offering locally harvested fresh fruits and vegetables that are naturally more flavorful and nutritious. They also benefit the community by drawing residents to the downtown area, thus strengthening the town-spirit through the market place.

The Farmer’s Markets reduce the food miles between the field and table, thus lowering carbon emissions. By featuring organic produce, the amount of pesticides and fertilizers entering our local waterways is reduced, thereby improving many fragile ecosystems.

Many towns are now offering Farmer’s Markets….. here are a few:

Chatham Borough Farmer’s Market – Every Saturday through October from 8 AM to 1 PM, located at the Railroad Station on Fairmount Avenue.

Madison Farmer’s Market I – Every Thursday at Madison High School from 3:30PM to 7:30PM.

Madison Farmer’s Market 2 – Every Thursday at the Madison Community Pool from 3:30PM to 7:30 PM.

Summit Farmer’s Market – Every Sunday at the parking lot on the corner of DeForest Avenue and Beechwood from 9 AM to 2 PM.

Posted by: Cynthia Edgar

Take it or Leave it! Part 4

2010-07-01T13:04:19Z

What are your expectations of the real estate agent you ultimately will hire?

The law of “Agency” should be explained clearly and thoroughly before you begin. You, the seller need to be comfortable with the legal relationship prior to signing any agreement. Upon request we will send you the form to review. Once your relationship has been established you can move forward. Marketing is a very delicate process and some agents are more specialized than others. The goal for selling your home is to attract as many potential buyers and buyer’s agents to the home within the opening weeks of your home’s debut.

There is more than meets the eye when your home is professionally marketed. Your agent should set all the components into motion like a movie director. Many factors come into play and it’s ultimately up to your listing agent to be contentious, organized and fully prepared when your home “goes live” on the internet. As with any production, tremendous amounts of preparation goes on behind the scenes before the curtain goes up.

Team work and communication between seller and agent must be formed PRIOR to “SHOW TIME”.

Contact me for a no obligation consultation at my office, by appointment only.

Posted by: Caroline Vanleer

Take it or Leave it! Part 3

2010-06-24T10:58:00Z

Less is more. Why? Read on:

Simply, the value of the house, though represented by an offering price, is determined by the pool of buyers looking at groups of houses that are in a similar niche as yours. This is what is meant by the phrase: What the market will bear.

Two scenarios to be aware of:

Multiple offers: Price is set to attract serious buyers by offering value to entice multiple bidding on the property sooner rather than later. This method actually pushes the value of the property to the maximum price point. Timing and careful analysis is critical to achieve maximum benefits.

Over priced listings: These listings attract the bargain hunters. They know as soon as a property hits a time limit, they can negotiate a better deal in their favor. They have no competition in most cases and begin with a “low ball” offer. They have more control when negotiating, not the other way around.

The good news is that we are skilled at determining a healthy starting price when marketing your home. You should be able to reap the highest price the market will bear in the least amount of time and hassle.

We are happy to speak with you at our office without obligation.

Serving the Mid-Town direct communities of Chatham, Madison, Summit and Short Hills: we have what you need. See www.TurpinRealtors.com for community listings. Accurate information can make for a much more rewarding experience. Allow us to show you the Turpin difference.

Encourage BUYERS to Take it …. Not LEAVE IT.

Until next time,

Posted by: Caroline Vanleer

The Short Hills, New Jersey Area

2010-06-18T00:00:00Z

Turpin has just listed a wonderful property located in the premier Old Short Hills section within the Deerfield grammar school district. Short Hills is a lovely community with a stellar reputation located on the Midtown Direct train line to NYC. Access to Route 24 and major highways provide a convenient commute to the Hoboken path terminal and ferry lines to NYC as well as Newark International Airport.

Within close proximity to this listing is a wonderful public historic garden called Greenwood Gardens. Presently, they have a restoration project going on which is in line with the main goal of the gardens to promote conservation and preservation of historic homes and gardens. They provide public tours of this project as well as the gardens. This interesting and beautiful public garden is one of the many fun things that the Millburn/Short Hills area has to offer. In addition to the quaint downtown area featuring many restaurants, a park, and a movie theater, is the unique Papermill Playhouse. Also nearby is the well-known Short Hills Mall with the Short Hills Hilton across the street.

For more information on the Short Hills area, click on these links; public school system, community information and general information.

Cindy or I would be happy to assist if you have any questions: Cindy Edgar or Lois Olmstead at Turpin Realtors.

Until next time,

Posted by: Lois Olmstead

Chatham Borough Historical Society

2010-06-08T16:01:39Z

Chatham Borough (and Township) each have their own Historical Society, each dedicated to preserving the past. The Borough Historical Society was founded in 1923, with the mission “to bring together those who are interested in historical matters relating to the settlement and development of Chatham, and to make this material available to the public.”

The society presents programs, hosts an annual dinner for members, publishes a quarterly newsletter, takes oral histories, and gives walking tours of Chatham Borough. They have published several books and publications about Chatham, which are available for sale at the Chatham Public Library on Main Street. The Society researches the history of local houses, and documents all findings. One current project is the digitizing of many of the old photos in the archives, and creating DVDs of recent programs. They also offer for sale a reproduction from a 1910 map of Chatham Borough, which is printed on acid-free paper, and is approximately 22” by 30”.

The Chatham Historical Society is happy to welcome new members who are interested in helping celebrate Chatham’s rich history, and preserving the town’s historic character.

For details, write to:

Chatham Historical Society

P.O. Box 682

Chatham, NJ 07928

Posted by: Cynthia Edgar

Dog Days of summer, what to do with your pooch

2010-06-02T20:57:00Z

As the weather continues to show all the talisman of spring, I started thinking about the soon to come dog days of summer. This got me thinking about my many friends and family members who have dogs as pets. Recently, a potential client looking in the towns of Chatham, Madison and Summit asked me if there were any dog parks nearby. There are several dog parks in nearby communities. To view them, visit Doggeek.com.

Along these canine thoughts, I read with interest two articles on dog park etiquette by Allison Deeb, President and Founder of MARDOG, Inc. Her discussion centered on the basic rules that dog park users should consider before taking their dogs to the park. Check out her site for an amusing and instructional discussion.

Last but not least is the question of where to board your dog when he/she can’t join in the family fun. The following are just a few of the many choices in the area:

Morris Animal Inn

Elizabeth Ann Kennels

K9 Resorts

Until next time,

Posted by: Lois Olmstead

Take it or Leave it! Part 2

2010-05-25T18:16:00Z

How long should your house be on the market before an offer is made? Successful house sales require realistic and current working knowledge of the marketplace.

· Transactions in the immediate area
· Listings in town
· Movement in your neighborhood
· Condition and style of the house you are offering
· Accurate pricing information from past sales
· Homes that are in the same niche as yours.

Straightforward communications between seller and agent is the key to understanding timing. We can help you calibrate the timing with our in-depth knowledge of real estate transactions.

Contact us at our office to discuss, by appointment only.
Serving the Mid-Town Direct communities of Chatham, Madison, Summit and Short Hills we have what you need. See www.turpinrealtors.com for community listings.

Pertinent information relating to the process of selling property can make for a much more rewarding experience. Allow us to show you the Turpin difference.

Encourage BUYERS to Take it … not Leave it!

Until next time…

Posted by: Caroline Vanleer and Lois Olmstead

Chatham Community Garden

2010-05-21T14:50:00Z

Chatham Borough, New Jersey is “going green” with its first “Community Garden” on Division Avenue. Marcy Wecker, the chairwoman of the Chatham Land Conservancy and Preservation Committee said the garden would be a low-cost , self-sustaining enterprise for the Borough, serving local resident gardeners whose backyards are too small, shady, or deer-filled to be tilled.

The new garden consists of 20 10-foot-by-20 foot plots, and there are four nearby water spigots, and a municipal parking lot close by.

Earlier this spring, Pete Coviello of Coviello Landscapers, brought 10 truck loads of compost to the Community Garden, and created the plots.

Mayor V. Nelson Vaughan said “I hope it will be over-subscribed!”

Posted by: Cynthia Edgar