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Dunn Calls on Governor Sherrill to Hold School Funding Meeting in the Highlands

By
Frank Cahill
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JEFFERSON — Assemblywoman Aura Dunn is calling on Governor Mikie Sherrill to hold a school funding meeting in the Highlands region, saying schools in West Milford, Jefferson and throughout the Highlands are facing a serious funding crisis.

The Sherrill administration recently scheduled an 18-month series of public meetings to discuss changes to New Jersey’s school funding formula, but the Highlands region was left off the schedule, according to Dunn.

“Our schools in West Milford, Jefferson, and throughout the Highlands are facing a serious funding crisis,” Dunn said. “Five schools have already closed in the past two years, and our communities cannot afford to wait any longer for a solution. Our communities deserve a seat at the table.”

Dunn, who represents the 25th Legislative District, said she has been fighting for a fairer school funding formula, including introducing her Clean Water Promise legislative package to address the financial burden placed on Highlands communities.

“Our towns help protect New Jersey’s drinking water, but restrictions on development have placed significant strain on local taxpayers and schools,” Dunn said.

Dunn also helped secure $625,000 in emergency school aid for Jefferson and West Milford earlier this year. “While this provided needed relief, temporary funding is not a long-term solution,” she said.

“I am calling on Governor Sherrill to hold a school funding meeting in the Highlands as soon as possible,” Dunn said. “Our families, educators, and taxpayers deserve to be heard. I will continue fighting for a fair and sustainable solution for our schools.”

Dunn is encouraging residents to contact the Governor’s Office at (609) 292-6000 to request a meeting in the region.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

Tayfun Selen Earns Endorsement of Operating Engineers Local 825 in Race for Morris County Commissioner

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen has received the endorsement of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 825, in his campaign for re-election in the November general election.

In a letter dated Wednesday, September 30, Greg Lalevee, Chairman of Local 825’s Political Action and Education Committee, said the union was proud to endorse Selen on behalf of its more than 8,000 members.

“Operating Engineers are the men and women who move mountains and build New Jersey,” the letter states. The letter cites the union’s work on the region’s tallest buildings, a modern energy grid, replenished coastlines and the roads connecting them, summed up in the union’s motto, “we are building our future.”

“I am honored to have the support of Local 825 and the thousands of hardworking men and women they represent,” said Selen. “Their support matters to me because every day I fight for working families to have a seat at the table helping build out Morris County’s infrastructure, job pool, and economic growth.”

In its letter, the union said it looks forward to a continued dialogue with Selen on how to work together to advance their mutual goals. Local 825 represents more than 8,000 members who build and maintain New Jersey’s infrastructure, from commercial construction and energy projects to coastal restoration and roadwork.

Selen immigrated to the United States in 1996, working as a gas station attendant in Madison before becoming a United States citizen in 2008. He lives in Chatham Township with his wife, a small business owner, and his daughter.

As Mayor of Chatham Township, Selen cut taxes, reduced spending and helped earn a AAA bond rating. He has served as Morris County Commissioner Director and has worked to hold the line on county taxes and support local communities. Professionally, he is a small business owner, a certified public accountant, a Six Sigma Black Belt and a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3. For more information about Selen’s campaign, click here.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

Pumpkin Illumination to Light Up Morristown’s Vail Mansion Plaza

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — Families are invited to bring their carved pumpkins to Pumpkin Illumination on Saturday, October 24, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Vail Mansion Plaza, 110 South Street, Morristown.

The family-friendly evening will feature storytelling, art workshops, a luminary mask parade, music from DJ Frank D. and a display of illuminated pumpkins.

Residents are asked to bring their carved pumpkins, and lights will be provided to create a glowing display at sunset. Costumes are encouraged for everyone.

For more than 100 pumpkin-carving stencils to help get started, click here.

The rain date is Sunday, October 25.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

Man Charged With Driving While Intoxicated After Backing Into Truck in Club 15 Parking Lot

By
Police Reports
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Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — John A. Doherty, 57, was arrested for driving while intoxicated early Saturday morning, September 5, after police said he backed his pickup truck into another vehicle in the Club 15 parking lot on Route 15 South.

At approximately 3:00 a.m., Jefferson Township Police Officer Liam Shernce was assisting Officer Johnson on an unrelated motor vehicle stop in the lot between Club 15 and Sebring Auto when he heard a loud noise that sounded like a crash in the Club 15 parking lot. A white pickup truck was then seen moving into a different parking spot.

Officers Johnson and Gonnella responded and observed the white Ford F-150 backing into a parking spot. Officer Johnson performed a horizontal gaze nystagmus test on the driver, Doherty, and observed all six indicators of impairment, according to the report.

Officer Shernce then met with Doherty, who had droopy, watery and bloodshot eyes. Doherty admitted to drinking that evening but did not elaborate. He told police he was backing up to move to a different spot and “didn’t know” if he hit anything. The club’s manager showed police surveillance footage of Doherty’s truck backing into a black pickup truck and then moving to a different parking spot. No damage was visible on either vehicle, and the crash was handled as non-reportable at the request of both parties.

Doherty agreed to field sobriety testing. During the walk-and-turn test, he started before being instructed several times, did not keep his hands at his sides, lost his balance multiple times and did not walk heel to toe. During the one-leg stand test, he lost his balance twice and stopped performing the test, according to police.

Doherty was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. A search of his truck by Officer Gonnella and Corporal Quidort found no intoxicants, and the vehicle was towed by Richie’s.

At headquarters, Doherty was read his Miranda rights, agreed to speak with police and was described as cooperative and polite throughout. He provided two breath samples on the Alcotest 9510, which showed a blood alcohol content of 0.09 percent. The legal limit in New Jersey is 0.08 percent.

Doherty was released to a friend under John’s Law. He was charged with:

  • Driving While Intoxicated (N.J.S.A. 39:4-50)
  • Reckless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96)

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

Man Charged With Driving While Intoxicated After Being Found Slumped Over Wheel in McDonald’s Parking Lot

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Adam W. Riker, 42, was arrested for driving while intoxicated on Saturday night, August 22, after police found him slumped over in the driver’s seat of his running vehicle in the McDonald’s parking lot at Ridge Plaza in the Milton section of the township.

At approximately 9:44 p.m., Jefferson Township Police Officer Shane Cadigan responded to the McDonald’s, 5734 Berkshire Valley Road, for a report of a gray Ford Escape that had been speeding, nearly struck a curb and parked in the lot. The caller believed the driver was under the influence.

On arrival, Officer Cadigan found the Ford Escape parked horizontally across three parking stalls, still running and in drive. Riker, the owner and only occupant, was nodding his head with his eyes fluttering, swaying in his seat and difficult to understand, according to the report. The officer had Riker put the vehicle in park, shut off the engine and remove the keys.

A witness told police he saw the vehicle traveling south on Berkshire Valley Road, unable to maintain its lane, before it pulled into the shopping plaza, nearly hit a curb and came to a stop in the McDonald’s parking lot.

Sergeant Smolt, Officer Myshkoff and the first aid squad arrived at the scene. As officers helped Riker out of the vehicle, they detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath. While looking for Riker’s license with his consent, Officer Cadigan found three closed, approximately 50-milliliter bottles of vodka in the center console. Riker refused medical attention.

Officer Liam Shernce, who was working a driving while intoxicated detail, arrived to conduct standard field sobriety tests. He observed that Riker had heavy slurred speech, watery and droopy eyes, and a heavy odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath. Riker was unable to exit the vehicle or walk on his own, and officers determined that, for his safety, he could not perform the tests. He was placed under arrest, and officers had to lift him into the patrol car.

At police headquarters, officers determined that a breath test could not be safely administered. After briefing Assistant Prosecutor Meg Rodriguez, Officer Cadigan applied for a warrant to obtain samples of Riker’s blood. Judge William Pinilis approved the warrant by telephone at 12:30 a.m.

Riker was released to a family member under John’s Law. He was charged with:

  • Driving While Intoxicated (N.J.S.A. 39:4-50)
  • Reckless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-96)

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

New Hope Food Pantry Seeks Donations for Thanksgiving Baskets

By
Frank Cahill
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0

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — It is hard to believe, but the New Hope Food Pantry is already planning for Thanksgiving baskets.

The pantry will distribute Thanksgiving baskets on Saturday, November 21, and is seeking donations of the following items:k

  • Stuffing
  • Applesauce
  • Boxes of mashed potatoes
  • Cake mixes and icing
  • Sugar
  • Cooking oil
  • Hot chocolate
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Pumpkin mix
  • Gravy
  • Brownies
  • Flour
  • Coffee and tea

Donors are asked to have all donations at the church no later than Saturday, November 14.

The New Hope Food Pantry is a mission supported by the Milton United Methodist Church, 316 Dover-Milton Road, Oak Ridge.

For more information, contact the Milton United Methodist Church at (973) 697-3194, or Adele Wildermuth, Manager, at (973) 980-8600 or [email protected].

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

Morris County Chamber of Commerce to Host Business Outlook Breakfast Focusing on 2027 Economy

By
Frank Cahill
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David Hanson

FLORHAM PARK — The Morris County Chamber of Commerce will host a Business Outlook Breakfast on Wednesday, October 21, at the Park Avenue Club in Florham Park, focusing on economic trends, business insights and expectations for the economy in 2027.

The event will provide business leaders with information about economic forces shaping the year ahead, including consumer spending and saving habits, workforce productivity, market trends and the broader economic outlook affecting business decisions at the local and national levels.

David Hanson, Chief Executive Officer of Fulton Financial Advisors and Fulton Private Bank, will serve as the keynote speaker. Hanson is a charter member of the CEB Wealth Executive Management Roundtable and a member and past chair of the Trust and Wealth Executive Association.

During the program, Hanson will discuss economic trends, opportunities and challenges expected to affect businesses in 2027 and beyond. His presentation will also provide practical insights to help business leaders navigate changing economic conditions.

“Whether you are planning for growth, evaluating risk or simply looking to stay ahead of market changes, this program offers valuable insights plus meaningful connections with fellow members of the business community,” said Meghan Hunscher, chamber president. “The insight of key experts such as David Hanson proves invaluable in planning what’s best for your business, especially considering how intertwined local, regional, national and international economies are.”

The event is open to both Morris County Chamber of Commerce members and nonmembers.

Those interested in attending can register online by clicking here.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

College, Career or a New Direction: Explore Your Possibilities at County College of Morris Open House

By
Frank Cahill
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0

RANDOLPH — As technology, industries and the workforce evolve, the skills needed to succeed are changing, too. For those looking to learn new skills, advance in their current career, find a new direction or prepare for what’s next after high school, County College of Morris (CCM) invites prospective students, parents, adult learners and veterans to its Open House on Saturday, October 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Open House sessions begin at 9:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., and advance registration is required at www.ccm.edu/events/open-house. The campus-wide event gives visitors a chance to learn about CCM and get answers to their questions. Visitors can meet faculty and staff while exploring more than 100 associate degree, certificate and professional programs offered on campus, fully online and in hybrid formats.

Students interested in careers in comics, illustration and graphic storytelling can also learn about The Joe Kubert School at CCM, recently acquired by the college, bringing one of the most iconic and influential names in the industry to its campus. Representatives from the school will be on hand to share information about its various programs and opportunities.

Tours of classrooms, state-of-the-art labs, studios and performance spaces will be offered throughout the event. Admissions and financial aid professionals will be available to answer questions and help students navigate the enrollment process. A special session will be offered for those who started college but have not yet completed their degree. Representatives from the Veterans Resource Center, as well as transfer, career, tutoring and accessibility services, will also be on hand. Visitors can meet CCM students and learn more about more than 50 clubs, student government and Division II and Division III athletics.

For visitors ready to move forward, enrollment specialists and academic advisors will provide hands-on assistance, including a free application for an admission waiver (a $30 savings) for admission to the college-credit program and assistance with registration. Classes are still available for the Fall Semester, with a seven-week session beginning Thursday, October 22. Those interested in non-credit programs can meet with CCM’s Center for Workforce Development and register for courses. As a thank you for attending the Open House, every visitor will be entered to win a Campus Store gift card for books, supplies and CCM spirit wear.

CCM is located at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. For more information or questions about the Open House, contact the Admissions Office at (973) 328-5100 or email [email protected].

Ranked the number one community college in New Jersey in SmartAsset’s study of the Best Community Colleges in the United States, CCM is nationally recognized for providing students with an outstanding education that leads to powerful career and transfer opportunities. More than 50,000 CCM graduates have launched into rewarding futures.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

County College of Morris to Host Free Cybersecurity Night

By
Frank Cahill
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0

RANDOLPH — As the nation observes Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the Department of Information Technologies at County College of Morris (CCM) invites students and their families to explore the in-demand field of cybersecurity at Cybersecurity Night on Wednesday, October 21, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The free event will also bring together cybersecurity educators, industry professionals and government representatives to provide practical tips and insights into evolving threats facing community members, to help them stay protected in an increasingly connected world.

“We are excited, for a third consecutive year, to host this event to promote cybersecurity awareness and best practices to build a Cyber Strong America,” said Dawn Rywalt, professor of Information Technologies at CCM.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about CCM’s certificate and associate degree programs in areas such as Computer Science, Information Security and Information Technology. Representatives from four-year universities will be available to discuss transfer opportunities for CCM graduates to further their education. Working professionals seeking to strengthen their computing and information technology skills, learn a new program or transition into the growing cybersecurity field may learn more about CCM’s workforce development training and certification programs.

An industry panel will provide an additional perspective on the cybersecurity landscape, including the challenges organizations face and the skills and knowledge needed to help protect businesses, institutions and communities. The New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell will also be on hand to provide a state-level perspective on cybersecurity threats, preparedness and the importance of awareness.

CCM is the only community college in northern New Jersey designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Two-Year Education (CAE2Y) by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The designation recognizes CCM’s continued commitment to meeting rigorous criteria in cybersecurity education and preparing students with the skills needed for careers in cybersecurity and related fields.

Cybersecurity Night is free and open to the public, and pre-registration is encouraged. The event will take place at Cohen Café, located in Cohen Hall at CCM. Check-in and refreshments begin at 5:30 p.m., with the program beginning at 6:00 p.m. To register, click here. CCM is located at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Parking is available in Lot 7.

For more information about the event, contact CCM’s Department of Information Technologies at (973) 328-5780.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii Marks First Year in Madison With Free Coffee for Anyone Named Madison

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MADISON — Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii is celebrating the first anniversary of its Madison location on Thursday, October 15, with free coffee for customers named Madison and special offers for all guests.

The coffee shop, located at 14 Lincoln Place, will offer a free 16-ounce brewed or iced coffee to anyone named Madison who presents a valid ID during the anniversary celebration.

Additional promotions will include a free bakery item with every drink purchase, along with special discounts on coffee beans and merchandise.

“Mahalo, Madison!” said Tyler Bowman, franchise owner of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii locations in New Jersey. “This is such an incredible and welcoming community – a reason why we selected it for our first Bad Ass Coffee location. A year has gone by in the blink of an eye, and we’re grateful for the support and for our loyal customers who have helped get us to this point. If your name is Madison, swing by, say hi, and enjoy a cup of coffee on us!”

The Madison café, which opened last year, was the franchise’s first New Jersey location, according to the company.

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii serves premium Hawaiian coffees sourced from Kona, Kauai and Maui, along with handcrafted espresso beverages, signature lattes, cold brews, blended drinks and teas.

The menu also features breakfast and lunch offerings, while retail products include 100% Kona coffee, Hawaiian coffee blends, single-serve pods and branded merchandise.

Founded on Hawaii’s Big Island in 1989, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii takes its name from the donkeys historically used to transport coffee beans down the steep mountains of the Kona region. The animals became known as the “Bad Ass Ones” because of their strength and stubborn nature.

The company also offers an ‘Ohana Rewards loyalty program. New members receive $5 off and 89 Lei, the program’s reward points, after their first purchase as a member.

The Madison location is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

For more information, visit www.badasscoffee.com.

Copyright 2026 Zoomus Marketing, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission from the publisher.

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Morris Focus was founded in 2017 and is published in print and online formats. Its mission is to provide timely and accurate news coverage to Morris County residents and promote community engagement and involvement. The newspaper covers various topics, including local government, education, business, and sports. We can be reached by calling (973) 559-6000—a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.

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