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In this premiere installment, we travel to Historic Speedwell—the birthplace of the telegraph and one of Morris County’s most cherished landmarks—to explore its rich history and lasting impact on America’s Industrial Revolution.

Filmed inside the beautifully preserved Vail House, we sit down with Melanie Bump, Curator of Collections and Exhibits for the Morris County Park Commission. Melanie gives us an inside look at the stories and innovations that shaped this remarkable site. From the legacy of Stephen Vail to the technological breakthroughs that started right here in Morristown, this episode brings the past to life in a fresh, engaging way.

If you love local history, storytelling, and exploring the places that shaped our nation, you’re in the right place.

Subscribe to follow our journey through the 39 parks of the Morris County Park Commission.

©2025 Sleeping Bear Productions
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Special Thanks to the Morris County Park Commission & Executive Director David Helmer

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If you are interested in telling your Morris County story, contact us at productions@beyondthegreenshow.com

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We’re sitting down with Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (LD-25) for a conversation that’s all about people, community, and making a difference. From her journey into public service to her passion for helping families here in New Jersey, Aura shares stories, insights, and a little bit of the heart behind her work.

Beyond The Green isn’t about politics—it’s about the people and places that make Morristown and Morris County special. Don’t miss this inspiring interview!

Listen now and get to know Assemblywoman Dunn in a whole new way.

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Recorded at Saint Elizabeth University, Convent Station, NJ

Hosted By Peter Barbounis

Sr. Production Engineer - BRANDON HUTCHINSON

Production Engineer - JOSH GONZALEZ

Assitant Production Engineer - NIC DiSCIASCIO

If you are interested in telling your Morris County story, contact us at productions@beyondthegreenshow.com

Send us a text

In this episode of Beyond The Green, we sit down with David Helmer, Executive Director of the Morris County Park Commission, to explore the vital role the Commission plays in preserving New Jersey’s largest county park system. Helmer shares insights into the Commission’s mission of stewardship, recreation, and education, while highlighting the diverse parks, historic sites, and natural spaces under its care. From maintaining nearly 20,000 acres of open space to ensuring access for future generations, Helmer discusses both the challenges and opportunities in balancing conservation with community engagement. This conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the Morris County Park Commission connects residents and visitors alike to the natural beauty and heritage of the region.

For more information on the Morris County Park Commission (MCPC) go to:
https://www.morrisparks.net/

MCPC is steward to over 20,611 acres of parkland across the county.
Morris County Park Commission

It administers 39 facilities, including parks, trails, historic buildings, arboreta, outdoor education centers, and more.

The agency supports recreational, environmental, educational, and cultural uses, serving the needs of county residents and visitors.
Morris County

Its functions span land acquisition and conservation, maintenance of trails and open space, programming (nature education, horticulture, recreation), historic preservation, permitting of events and facilities, and partnerships with local municipalities and volunteers.

MCPC holds regular public meetings (for example, the 2025 schedule notes monthly meetings on the fourth Monday, with workshops quarterly) as part of its governance.

Because Morris County is fairly developed, the Park Commission plays a critical role in preserving green space, connecting trails, balancing recreation with conservation, and maintaining historic landscapes and structures.

Hosted By Peter Barbounis

Recorded at St. Elizabeth University, Convent Station, NJ

Sr. Production Engineer - BRANDON HUTCHINSON

Production Engineer - JOSH GONZALEZ

Assitant Production Engineer - NIC DiSCIASCIO

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If you are interested in telling your Morris County story, contact us at productions@beyondthegreenshow.com