MORRIS COUNTY — Exciting news for all those commuting through Parsippany! As of yesterday, our billboard advertising has been launched on Route 287. Keep an eye out for it during your travels, and let us know when you spot it. Safe travels and happy viewing!
If you believe in the mantra #SHOPLOCAL, there’s an app for that! Morris Now, a dedicated non-profit initiative, has made its mission to uplift local businesses in Morris County, especially in these challenging times when many have shifted to online shopping amidst the pandemic.
Here’s why every resident and business owner in Morris County should consider Morris Now:
Support for Local Economy: Local businesses form the backbone of our community. They pay local taxes, employ our neighbors, and support various community initiatives. By supporting them, we’re directly investing in our community’s growth and sustainability.
All-in-One App: Available for free on Google Play and the Apple Store, Morris Now isn’t just about shopping. It offers local news, weather updates, event listings, and even free classifieds. It’s essentially your digital gateway to everything in Morris County.
For Businesses: If you’re a local business owner, don’t miss out! Claim your free business listing at www.morrisnow.com and make your establishment more visible to the community.
Stay Informed: Apart from promoting local shopping, the app serves as a hub of information, ensuring residents are always in the loop about what’s happening in the county.
For more details or assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Frank Cahill at (973) 559-6000. Make the shift today, download the app, and let’s champion the cause of supporting our local businesses!
EAST HANOVER — Former State Assemblyman and two-time GOP gubernatorial candidate, Jack Ciattarelli, has been named Grand Marshal for this year’s Morris County Columbus Day Parade, proudly sponsored by the East Hanover Italian American Club.
Ahead of the parade, an Awards Dinner is slated for 6:30 p.m., Friday, October 6 at Hanover Manor on 16 Eagle Rock Avenue, East Hanover. Notably, music for the event will be rendered by Damico Entertainment, one of the area’s premier entertainment providers. Tickets can be procured at $125 from John Alvino at (973) 879-1044.
The parade itself is set to roll out at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 8, taking its route on Ridgedale Avenue.
This year, the Italian American Man of the Year honor will be bestowed upon East Hanover Councilman Frank DeMaio. In the women’s category, Stacie Costello, East Hanover Middle School’s Principal, has earned the title of Woman of the Year. Celebrating entrepreneurial spirit, the Entrepreneur of the Year accolade goes to John Trezza, renowned owner of Essex Morris Contractors. A Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Marc Macaluso, Superintendent of Public Works in East Hanover, while the title of Parade Princess is being conferred upon Giuliana Lazorko.
William Agnellino, the parade’s spokesperson, emphasized the significance of the honorees, noting, “Their dedication and values truly epitomize the spirit of the Italian-American community.”
Lisa Marie Latino of Long Shot Productions is set to officiate as the Parade Master of Ceremonies, with Christina Agnellino providing support at Town Square Park.
Spectators can look forward to an array of participants including the Hanover Park and Whippany Park marching bands, the Italian State Police, various social and civic entities, clowns, vintage cars, and representatives from Morris County’s fire and police departments.
A family-oriented event will follow the parade at Lurker Park, featuring an array of food stalls, games, bouncy rides, face painting, and more, courtesy of the East Hanover Italian American Club. As a special treat marking the parade’s 17th year, musical festivities in Lurker Park will showcase Damico Entertainment, while Danielle Delvescovo from Dance with Danielle is scheduled for a special Italian-themed performance.
For more details or participation inquiries, interested parties can reach out to Parade Chairman, Bill Agnellino at (973) 418-1485 or browse the official website, www.ehiac.com.
DOVER — In a move that underscores its commitment to inclusivity and safety, the Dover Police Department has introduced a Special Needs Registry for residents of Dover. The announcement, made at recent community outreach events, outlines the department’s proactive approach to ensure the well-being of individuals with disabilities within the town.
The registry is a voluntary service available to all residents with disabilities, whether they live, work, or attend school in Dover. The main goal of this initiative is to equip first responders with critical details about a registrant’s disability, emergency contact details, physical characteristics, and more. By having this information in advance, emergency personnel can ensure they provide more tailored and effective assistance during incidents.
Residents can access the registration forms in both English and Spanish on the Dover Police Department’s official website. Alternatively, the department’s Community Affairs Unit can email the forms upon request. Once filled out, these can be emailed back to Communityaffairs@doverpolicenj.org for processing.
In addition to the registry, the department also introduced the Blue Envelope Program, designed to assist vehicle drivers who might be on the Autism Spectrum. Necessary documents for this program, available in English and Spanish, can be found on the department’s website or obtained from the Community Affairs Unit.
For further details, questions, or concerns regarding the Special Needs Registry or the Blue Envelope Program, individuals are encouraged to reach out directly via email at Communityaffairs@doverpolicenj.org.
MORRIS COUNTY — When a man casts as imposing a shadow as retired New Jersey State Police Lt. Kevin Joseph Hanrahan, 61, his sudden and unexpected loss is felt as deeply as it is widely.
Shock mixed with profound sadness as word spread that a heart attack cut down a man who was known to be as kind as he was powerful.
Born in Paterson, Kevin had been a lifelong resident of Hawthorne. He served with distinction for 32 years in the New Jersey State Police, retiring as a Lieutenant assigned to Command of the Marine Services Bureau. Prior to that, Kevin also served for two years in the Passaic County Park Police in the Mounted Unit.
Hanrahan was headed to his son’s house in his 2020 Dodge Ram 1500 when he was stricken on Route 287 in Morris County around 9:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 27.
The dashcam shows the vehicle slowing to a stop as it rolled off the pavement before coming to rest at a metal guardrail.
Emergency responders furiously tried to revive the beloved veteran lawman all the way to Morristown Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Hanrahan was enjoying retirement, living part-time in Jupiter, FL, his son, Kevin, said. He regularly lifted weights and ran miles.
It just made his sudden death that much more shocking.
The pain was felt not just in Hanrahan’s Hawthorne hometown, which he never left. It also spread through the ranks of current and retired officers of both the state and Passaic County Park police departments and among those across the region.
Kevin enjoyed retirement by living part-time in beautiful Jupiter, FL, and was a lifelong fan of the Miami Dolphins. Kevin was survived by his beloved Paulette, son Kevin John Hanrahan and his fiancée Diana of Totowa, and daughter Nichole Hanrahan of Vernon. Kevin was the brother of John, Kelli, and Patricia. He is also survived by his dear nieces and nephews and countless friends. The funeral procession will depart at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 5, from the Browning-Forshay Funeral Home, 557 Lafayette Avenue, Hawthorne, for an 11:00 a.m. funeral mass at St. Anthony’s R.C. Church, 276 Diamond Bridge Avenue, Hawthorne. Cremation will take place privately. Friends may visit with the family at the funeral home on Wednesday, October 4 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Troopers United Foundation, at troopersunited.org please mention “Lt. Kevin Hanrahan”
MORRIS COUNTY — The Great Swamp Watershed Association’s 2023 Gala & Silent Auction is live.
Close to 200 items ranging from home décor to fine wine to sporting events are available for bid.
Participants may log in early and browse and bid by clicking here. The silent auction takes place online now through 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 5, the night of the gala at Brookdale Country Club, Florham Park.
“We have a stunning array of items and experiences up for bid this year,” Sally Rubin, Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) executive director, said. “Whether you are looking for a family adventure, in the mood for a new dining experience, want the right accent piece for your home, or are interested in tasting some fine wines, our silent auction is the place to go. With so many fun and unique things available, there is something for everyone.”
The silent auction includes a variety of artwork, travel opportunities, local dining, entertainment, fine wine, sporting events, home and garden decor, golf outings, beauty and fashion, health and fitness, and things to do.
Tickets are still available for the GSWA Gala Celebration and Silent Auction at GreatSwamp.org where participants can mix and mingle with fellow environmental-minded people and view the silent auction live and in person.
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, D-11, will serve as the event’s keynote speaker sharing her efforts surrounding New Jersey’s environmental issues.
The event will also pay special tribute to John J. DeLaney, Jr., an avid supporter and former board member of the environmental, non-profit organization. As the mayor of Morristown for eight years, Jay DeLaney left a lasting impact on the community, Rubin said.
Additionally, Simon Mandal, a nationally touring professional magician, comedian, and mentalist, will perform up-close magic and captivating illusions throughout the evening.
GSWA’s Gala is its largest fundraising event of the year with a lively cocktail hour, fine dining featuring a vegan meal option, and an exciting silent auction. VIP ticket holders are granted exclusive access to a private reception of cocktails and gourmet hors d’oeuvres at 5:00 p.m., preceding the main event.
Purchase tickets at GreatSwamp.org or call (973) 538-3500.
DOVER — Dover Shade Tree Commission warmly invites families to join them in a delightful Fall Celebration of Trees! The event is slated to be a festive affair filled with enlightening and entertaining activities aimed at celebrating the beauty and importance of trees.
Event Details:
When: Saturday, October 7, 2023
Where: Water Works Park, 100 Princeton Ave, at the Pavilion
Engaging Activities for Young Minds:
The event is designed with activities specifically catered to children in 1st to 5th grade. However, siblings of all ages and parents are more than welcome to join in the fun! Attendees will have the opportunity to:
Learn about the crucial roles trees play in our lives and the environment and explore ways we can contribute to their care.
Welcome a new tree addition to the park, enhancing its green landscape.
Become “Tree Detectives” and engage in a “Tree Treasure Hunt,” fostering a sense of curiosity and discovery about the diverse tree species.
Unleash their creativity with “Tree Art,” where they can create their own tree-inspired artworks.
Celebrating Trees and Community:
This Fall Celebration is not just a day to appreciate trees but also a chance to cultivate a sense of community and environmental stewardship among the younger generation. The Dover Shade Tree Commission is excited to share this day of learning, exploration, and artistic expression with the families of Dover, fostering a deeper understanding and love for our leafy friends.
So, mark your calendars and gather your little ones for a day of environmental discovery and autumnal joy at the Fall Celebration of Trees!
MADISON — The United Methodist Church is hosting its much-anticipated Annual Trunk or Treat event on Sunday, October 29, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., extending a warm invitation to families, friends, and neighbors in the community.
A Display of Creative Themes
Participants can look forward to a festive and creative display of trunks, with themes ranging from the Addams Family and Wizard of Oz to Ghostbusters and many more. These inventive and thematic setups promise to entertain attendees of all ages, offering a delightful backdrop for trick-or-treaters.
Community Engagement and Family Fun
This event is not only a celebration of the festive season but also an opportunity for community engagement and family fun. Residents are encouraged to invite their friends, families, and neighbors to come together and enjoy the unique and exciting trunk themes, create memorable experiences, and celebrate community spirit.
Registration and Attendance
Those interested in attending this family-friendly event are encouraged to register or RSVP online to ensure smooth entry to the event. To register click here.
The Annual Trunk or Treat event at The United Methodist Church is a reflection of the community’s enthusiasm and creativity, fostering connections and offering a space for families to create lasting memories this festive season.
The United Methodist Church is located at 24 Madison Avenue.
Ready Set Go! The current year's 4 Miler highlighted a 4-mile run on a picturesque, USA Track and Field Certified (USATF) double-loop course and also included options for a two- and four-mile walk.
MORRIS CUNTY — The 12th Annual SAX 4 Miler took place on Saturday, September 30, at the modern headquarters of Sax LLP, located at 389 Interpace Parkway, Parsippany, with the noble aim of raising funds for St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.
Leon Grassi, Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Business Development, addressed the assembled attendees.
Since its inception in 2012, the event has raised nearly $800,000, with this year’s goal being to cross the $1 million mark. At the point of this article, Sax LLP has successfully raised $97,594 for the year, and contributions continue to flow in.
Sax LLP is a staunch supporter of St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, allocating 100% of the proceeds from this event directly to the hospital’s Child Life Department. This department specializes in offering holistic therapies to children, relying entirely on external support, including the funds generated by the 4 Miler.
Leon Grassi, Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Business Development, along with Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella, were present at the 12th Annual 4 Miler on Saturday, September 30. The event unfolded at the contemporary headquarters of Sax LLP, situated at 389 Interpace Parkway, Parsippany, and was organized with the objective of generating funds for St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.
Helena Lynch Achieves Top Individual Fundraiser, Securing $650; Margaret Henn, Carly O’Connell, and Richard Kotkin each garner $500 at the annual event.
Sax, LLP emerges as the top corporate team with $6,150; Team St. Joseph’s Health secures $762.77, Cardiopulmonary raises $675, and Felician University School of Nursing raises $345.
Kevin J. Slavin, President & CEO at St. Joseph’s Health
Stuart Berger, CPA, and partner at Sax LLP, who founded the event twelve years ago, expressed, “The 4 Miler is one of our key events, allowing us to support our communities and assist the extraordinary team at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, ensuring pediatric patients receive crucial programs and services.” Achieving $1 million in raised funds is a significant milestone, made possible by the participants, donors, and sponsors.
This year’s 4 Miler showcased a 4-mile run on a scenic, USA Track and Field Certified (USATF) double-loop course and also featured a two- and four-mile walk. There were kids’ dashes designed for ages 2-11, ranging from 25 to 200 yards, along with a plethora of family-friendly activities including a DJ, a face painter, and a balloon artist.
Kids were treated to an array of activities including a balloon artist, face painting, sand bracelet creation, and more.
Attendees had the opportunity to experience the newly introduced 4-mile run on a picturesque, USA Track and Field Certified (USATF) double-loop course, and families were invited to participate in the Kids’ dashes, tailored for children aged 2-11, with distances varying between 25 to 200 yards.
Children were treated to an array of activities including a balloon artist, face painting, sand bracelet creation, and more.
Children were treated to an array of activities including a balloon artist, face painting, sand bracelet creation, and more.
Sax LLP fervently backs St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, directing 100% of the proceeds from this event straight to the hospital’s Child Life Department. This sector is dedicated to providing comprehensive therapies to children, depending entirely on external contributions, including those raised by the 4 Miler.
Attendees had the opportunity to experience the newly introduced 4-mile run on a picturesque, USA Track and Field Certified (USATF) double-loop course, and families were invited to participate in the Kids’ dashes, tailored for children aged 2-11, with distances varying between 25 to 200 yards.
Cloris Bustamante, Director of Community Outreach at St. Joseph’s Health, provides insights on maintaining good health
Volunteers at the registration tables
They’re off to the races! ‘On Your Marks!’ This year’s 4 Miler showcased a scenic 4-mile run on a USA Track and Field Certified (USATF) double-loop course, with options for a two- and four-mile walk also included.
Family Affair: The Greenwood Family – Evonne, Don, and their children Emma, 8; Evangeline, 6; and Donald, 4, all took part in the Kids Races.
Marc and Samantha Mustachio participated in the SAX 4 Miler’s 4-mile run.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, October 2023. Click here to read the magazine.
HANOVER — The Hanover Wind Symphony (HWS) is set to present a complimentary concert that will spotlight a solo act by Andrew Joyal, 17, of Denville, the recipient of the 2023 HWS Senior Division Summer Music Scholarship.
Titled “Heartstrings,” the concert is scheduled for 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 25, and will be held at Memorial Junior School, located at 61 Highland Avenue, Whippany.
Andrew Joyal, currently a senior at Morris Knolls High School, is also part of the Juilliard Pre-College program. Having been awarded the 2023 HWS Senior Division Summer Music Scholarship, he participated in the Interlochen Low Brass Intensive. There, he had the esteemed opportunity to showcase his talent in master classes conducted by renowned musicians such as Joseph Alessi, Tom Riccobono, and Jonathan Lombardo.
Additionally, Peter Boor of Brookfield, Conn., the founder and conductor emeritus of HWS, will be a special guest for the event, leading the symphony in two of the musical selections.
Contributions are kindly welcomed and greatly appreciated!
For over thirty years, the Hanover Wind Symphony (HWS) has been captivating audiences with its compelling performances. Members of HWS share not only a mutual love for music but also a commitment to enriching the community’s cultural tapestry through the exhilaration of live wind band presentations. They also play a role in guiding the upcoming generation of wind musicians, including Andrew Joyal and Ben Furman, who specialize in mallet percussion.
The funding supporting the Hanover Wind Symphony has been facilitated partly by contributions from Morris Arts through the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Cultural Arts Committee of Hanover Township.
For additional details about the wind band and their forthcoming concerts, click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The inaugural New Jersey Golf Tournament of Hope, organized to benefit Lily’s Hope Foundation, is swiftly approaching, scheduled to occur in less than two weeks. The event is set to take place at the Knoll Country Club West in Boonton on Thursday, October 12. The foundation has been conducting this charity golf tournament since 2014 in Pennsylvania, and it has witnessed consistent growth and success over the last nine years.
This year, the New Jersey chapter of Lily’s Hope Foundation has decided to host this inspiring event locally, aiming to raise awareness and funds for a noble cause while ensuring participants enjoy every moment. The registration fee is $175 per golfer, covering a variety of amenities including a catered breakfast, an 18-hole golf scramble, a golf cart, a catered lunch buffet, tournament awards, door prizes, and much more! Limited spots are available, so secure your tickets by clicking here.
Lily’s Hope Foundation is dedicated to addressing the urgent needs of families with premature babies, providing crucial support, resources, and hope to fragile newborns in Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) through their distinct Preemie Pantry and Emergency Response Packages of Hope programs. Operating as an all-volunteer 501(C)(3) non-profit organization, the foundation largely depends on community support to aid NICU families, as they rally behind their premature newborns. Since its inception in 2013, Lily’s Hope has extended its support to over 5,000 NICU families nationwide.
The New Jersey Chapter of Lily’s Hope Foundation, established in 2017, aims to raise funds, organize events, and advocate for NICU support availability in New Jersey, formally collaborating with Englewood Health in Englewood, Saint Clare’s in Denville, and Morristown Medical Center in Morristown.
