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Town of Boonton Public Meetings Scheduled for November

By
Frank Cahill
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Boonton Town Hall

BOONTON — Residents of Boonton are invited to attend a series of public meetings held throughout November, providing an opportunity to stay informed and participate in local government decisions. Meetings take place in person at Boonton Town Hall, located at 100 Washington Street, at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise specified on the Town’s official website.

The Mayor and Town Council will hold two regular public sessions this month on November 4 and November 18, with each session beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Council meetings provide a forum for discussing community issues, upcoming projects, and policies affecting the town.

The Historic Preservation Commission will meet on November 6 to review plans and initiatives aimed at preserving Boonton’s historical sites and landmarks. This commission works to protect the town’s rich heritage, ensuring that its historic character is maintained for future generations.

On November 13, the Planning Board will convene to discuss proposals for development and land use within Boonton. This board evaluates new projects and considers how they fit within the town’s growth objectives and zoning regulations.

Finally, the Board of Health will meet on November 19 to address public health concerns, updates, and regulations impacting Boonton residents. The board focuses on promoting community health and safety through various local initiatives.

Agendas for each meeting are posted in advance and can be accessed through the Agenda Center on the Town of Boonton’s website, where meeting minutes are also added once approved. The town encourages residents to attend these meetings, contribute their input, and stay informed on matters impacting the Boonton community.





Grants Available for NJ Parks, Playgrounds, Trails, and Sports Facilities

By
Frank Cahill
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Murphy Administration Allocates $20 Million for Local Recreation Improvements Across NJ

MORRIS COUNTY — The state Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Division of Local Government Services (DLGS) is accepting applications from counties, municipalities, and school districts for Local Recreation Improvement Grant (LRIG) Program funding.

The Murphy Administration allocated $20 million in the Fiscal Year 2025 state budget to this competitive grant program, which is now in its fifth year supporting the improvement and repair of public recreation facilities including local parks, municipal recreation centers, and local stadiums.

LRIG funds will be awarded to successful grant applicants to help cover costs associated with updating community centers, playgrounds, pools, fields, walking or bicycle trails, rail trails, multi-sport courts, and recreational facilities; one-time personnel costs directly related to improvements; project development professional services costs; equipment costs including playground and recreation facilities equipment; and environmental remediation costs required to prepare recreation sites for use.

New Jersey counties, municipalities, and school districts are eligible to apply.

To qualify for LRIG funding, applicants must:

• Describe the intended use of grant funding for the improvement or repair of a specific local recreation site and identify any previously encountered obstacles to repair or improve the space.
• Demonstrate their capacity to complete the proposed project and provide project management and oversight for all activities and fiscal operations.
• List key personnel and/or consultants who will be managing the grant funds and proposed project.
• Provide a cost breakdown of the project.
• Submit a governing body resolution acknowledging and approving any grant application and the proposed plan or design for the recreation space or community facility for which funding is sought.\

A sample resolution can be found on the DLGS website by clicking here.

Certify that the property where improvements will be made is owned by the county, municipality, or school district.

Applications must be submitted through the DCA SAGE Portal by clicking here. They are due no later than 5 p.m. on January 31.

Program guidelines and detailed information about the FY 2025 LRIG Program are available by clicking here on the DCA website.

 For more information about DCA, click here or follow the department on social media.





Sherrill Launches Fourth Annual Thanksgiving Thank Yous for Veterans

By
Frank Cahill
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Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill

MORRIS COUNTY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) is launching her fourth annual “Thanksgiving Thank Yous” program to collect notes of appreciation for local veterans. The cards will be distributed to veterans throughout the area to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. 

“As we spend time this holiday season remembering all we are grateful for, the Thanksgiving Thank You program is a wonderful opportunity to remind our veterans that our community appreciates their tremendous service and sacrifice,” said Rep. Sherrill. “I hope that all NJ-11 residents, especially students, will participate for another year of recognizing our veterans!”

Residents are invited to drop off or mail their cards and notes to Rep. Sherrill’s District Office in Livingston, starting Thursday, October 31, through Monday, November 18, 2024. Cards submitted in envelopes should not be sealed or closed unless mailed to the District Office. You can drop off cards Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 357 South Livingston Road, Suite 201, Livingston, NJ 07039.

If you have any questions, please call the office at (973) 526-5668 or email melanie.holmes@mail.house.gov.





Community Unites for 2024 Thanksgiving Food Drive to Provide Holiday Meals for Families in Need

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File photo

DOVER — The Thanksgiving Food Drive will run until November 21, 2024. Each family in need will receive a turkey and a bag of Thanksgiving meal essentials. Distribution will occur at the Garden Chapel in Dover, on November 22, 2024, at 12:00 p.m.

How to Help:

  • Donations can be sent via:
    • Zelle: Carolyn D. Quinn at 973-479-3852
    • Venmo: Carolyn-Quinn-5
    • ShopRite Gift Card: Or purchase items from the list below.
  • Cash donations will go toward purchasing turkeys.

Suggested Shopping List per Family:

  • 2 cans of corn
  • 2 cans of green beans
  • 2 cans of cranberry sauce
  • 1 large can of yam
  • 1 can of pumpkin or fruit pie filling
  • 2 boxes of cornbread
  • 2 boxes of stuffing
  • 3 jars of turkey gravy
  • 1 box of pie crust mix
  • 1 large box or 2 small boxes of instant potatoes
  • 1 bag of mini marshmallows

Please share this drive with family, friends, coworkers, or your church. For questions, contact Carolyn at (973) 479-3852.





Thousands Rally at 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Event

By
Frank Cahill
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The Randolph Rams Cheerleading team brought spirit and energy to Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, joining thousands of participants in support of the fight against breast cancer. Their enthusiasm added to the event’s uplifting atmosphere and community unity.

MORRIS COUNTY — The 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Parsippany brought together over 6,000 walkers at the Century Office Campus, Parsippany, to unite against breast cancer. Held at 4 Century Drive, this year’s event was a powerful demonstration of community support, raising an impressive $347,594. With participants from local teams, companies, schools, and individuals, each person played a role in advancing the goal to end breast cancer as we know it.

Making Strides: Parsippany’s Annual Walk Raises Hope and $347,594 for Breast Cancer Fight

Making Strides is recognized as the nation’s largest and most impactful movement focused on ending breast cancer. Funds raised through events like these allow the American Cancer Society to fuel life-saving research, boost education and awareness about prevention, and provide essential support for patients and families facing breast cancer.

Apart from skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer type among women. Approximately 313,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, with an additional 56,500 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) expected to be diagnosed in women.

6,000+ Walkers Join Forces in Parsippany to End Breast Cancer

This year’s top team was Rising to the Challenge, which raised an outstanding $24,582, with the top individual participant, Joan Van Soest. Other key teams included The Fighting Champions ($22,540), Hanna’s Bananas Powered by Toyota ($13,014), and THE PINK STRIDERS ($11,024). Local organizations and companies also lent their support, with Atlantic Health Systems raising $17,292, Toyota Motor North America raising $13,014, and Siemens Healthineers raising $9,663. In addition, Parsippany-Troy Hills PBA Local 131 donated $2,500, underscoring the organization’s commitment to the community.

Students and staff from Morristown Beard School join together at Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, contributing $8,822 with a team of 130 participants in support of the cause.

Local schools also rallied behind the cause, with Morristown Beard School raising $8,822 from its 130 participants.

Parsippany-based Gilead proudly served as a Tribute Garden Sponsor, supporting the meaningful space dedicated to honoring and remembering those affected by breast cancer at the Making Strides event.

This collective effort of the Parsippany community highlights the strength and solidarity that fuels the fight against breast cancer. Each step taken, dollar raised, and story shared reinforces the commitment to a world free from breast cancer, showing that Parsippany is a community that won’t stop until breast cancer is defeated.

Paul Miller Auto Group raised $1,710 at Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, adding to the community’s efforts to fund research and support services in the fight against breast cancer.
Melissa Gargantiel proudly holds the $2,500 check from Parsippany-Troy Hills PBA Local 131, a generous contribution to Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. This donation underscores the PBA’s commitment to supporting breast cancer research and patient care in the community.
Members of Parsippany-Troy Hills PBA Local 131 present a $2,500 check at Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, showing their strong support for breast cancer research, education, and patient support in the local community.
Survivors and thrivers were celebrated at the event, with heartfelt gratitude extended to Zeta Tau Alpha, the incredible National Survivor Ambassador. At Making Strides events nationwide, Zeta Tau Alpha played a crucial role in honoring and celebrating thousands of survivors and thrivers in the Survivor Tents. Their unwavering support made a significant impact, and the organizers look forward to seeing everyone again next year.
Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace generously served as the Event Refreshment Sponsor, providing delicious snacks and beverages to fuel participants at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. Their support helped keep the community energized throughout the day.





Embassy Suites Holds 30th Annual Trick or Suite for PG Chambers School

By
Frank Cahill
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Students from the Mountain Lakes High School Kiwanis Key Club enthusiastically volunteered at the Trick or Suite event, bringing energy and smiles to the children of P.G. Chambers School. As part of their commitment to community service, these students joined other local organizations to decorate suites and hand out candy, creating a memorable Halloween experience. The Key Club’s participation exemplifies their dedication to service, leadership, and making a positive impact in the community.

MOUNTAIN LAKES — Embassy Suites, located at 909 Parsippany Boulevard, Parsippany, hosted its 30th Annual Trick or Suite event on Friday, October 25. Trick or Suite provides a safe and enjoyable Halloween experience for the children of the P.G. Chambers School, featuring decorated hotel suites and candy giveaways by participating organizations. Each organization created a festive suite and dressed in costume, adding to the Halloween fun for the children.

Employees of Embassy Suites dressed up to entertain the children of P.G. Chambers School, adding excitement and Halloween spirit to the event.
It was all smiles at P.G. Chambers School as students enjoyed a supportive and joyful environment designed just for them. The dedicated staff, caring volunteers, and the school’s welcoming atmosphere make every day a positive experience for the children, helping them achieve their goals with enthusiasm and pride.

The 2024 Trick or Suite event was made possible through the generous participation of the following companies and groups:

  • American Care Center
  • Bayada
  • Beneo, Inc.
  • Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
  • Chobani
  • CohnReznick
  • Collabera
  • Crunch Fitness Parsippany
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Jersey City
  • EWMA
  • Mountain Lakes High School Key Club
  • New Vision Pioneers
  • Northwest District Elks Special Children’s Committee
  • P.G. Chambers School
  • Tilcon New York
  • Trane
At the recent Trick or Suite event held at Embassy Suites in Parsippany, Chobani joined other organizations to bring Halloween cheer to children from P.G. Chambers School, reflecting its ongoing dedication to fostering community spirit and supporting children and families in need.

Additionally, ShopRite of Parsippany and Palermo’s Pizza & Family Restaurant contributed generous donations to the event, helping to make this year’s Trick or Suite a memorable celebration.

Northwest District Elks Special Children’s Committee: Debby Christensen of Boonton, Doreen Middleton Sparta, Joe Serrecchia Parsippany, and Wayne McDonald Former VP of the Northwest District.
Dressed in bright, cheerful Barbie costumes, the volunteers brought extra sparkle to the Trick or Suite event for the children of P.G. Chambers School. With each costume reflecting the playful and colorful Barbie theme, they delighted the young attendees, adding a special touch of fun to the Halloween celebration. The Barbie-themed outfits helped create a warm and welcoming environment, making the day even more magical for everyone involved.

P.G. Chambers School, located in Cedar Knolls, is a renowned nonprofit school dedicated to educating and supporting children with disabilities. Serving students from ages three to fourteen, the school provides a range of specialized programs tailored to meet the unique learning, developmental, and therapeutic needs of each child. Through its commitment to fostering independence, personal growth, and academic success, P.G. Chambers School creates a nurturing environment that empowers students to reach their full potential. The school’s multidisciplinary approach integrates academics, therapy, and assistive technology, enabling children to overcome challenges and build confidence. With the help of a dedicated team of educators, therapists, and support staff, P.G. Chambers School continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families across Northern New Jersey.





Montville Kiwanis and Love in Action – Thanksgiving Meals for Those in Need

By
Frank Cahill
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0
The Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry is located at 91 Passaic Valley Road, Montville. It is open to the community on Thursdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. For more information, please email KiwanisofMontville@gmail.com or call 973-400-9222. Individuals in need of assistance are welcome to stop by the pantry during operating hours to receive groceries at no cost. Please bring a form of ID.

MORRIS COUNTY — The “Love in Action” volunteers are preparing to assemble single-serve Thanksgiving meals, marking a new partnership with the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry. For the first time, this inspiring collaboration will provide 250 free single-serve meals to patrons, bringing hope and a hearty holiday meal to those in need.

About Love in Action: Love in Action, a volunteer initiative organized by Mitchell Morrison, is dedicated to donating, assembling, and delivering Thanksgiving meals to local individuals and families facing hardship. Over the years, the initiative has distributed “thousands of free, deliciously prepared, single-serve Thanksgiving meals,” according to Morrison. Generous sponsors supporting the cause include Andre’s, Cafe Pierrot, and Sparta Diner in Sparta; Arbor/SCCC in Newton; Barnyard in Branchville; and Fossil Farms in Boonton. Their collective efforts are helping to brighten Thanksgiving for many.

Get Involved: Those interested in volunteer opportunities with the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry or learning how to join Montville Kiwanis are encouraged to connect. The organization welcomes new members eager to help provide hope and support to those in need, not only during the holiday season but throughout the year.

The Montville Kiwanis Club meets on the first and third Thursdays of each month at The Columbia Inn in Montville, beginning at 6:30 p.m. New members are always welcome!

Click here to learn more.





Mayor Dodd and Staff Unite in Pink to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and Promote Preventative Health

By
Frank Cahill
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Mayor and staff proudly wear pink in a show of solidarity for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, promoting hope, resilience, and the importance of preventative health

DOVER — Town of Dover Mayor James P. Dodd, alongside the committed administrative staff and employees, stood united in pink to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Wearing pink represented our collective hope, resilience, and solidarity in the fight against breast cancer. Mayor Dodd emphasized the importance of prevention, stating, “I encourage all female employees to take advantage of a scheduled paid day off for a mammogram—prevention is key.”





Route 10 Westbound Lane Closure For Gas Main Work in Randolph

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — The right lane on Route 10 westbound is scheduled to be closed this weekend for New Jersey Natural Gas Company utility work in Randolph, Morris County. In addition, access from Route 10 eastbound and westbound to Canfield Avenue/CR 513 will be closed and detoured, which will affect anyone going to the Motor Vehicle Commission office and inspection station located on Canfield Avenue. This is a continuation of work that began last weekend.

Beginning at 10:00 p.m., Friday, November 1, until 5:00 a.m. Sunday, November 3, New Jersey Natural Gas Company is scheduled to close the right lane on Route 10 westbound near Canfield Avenue in Randolph for gas main installation across the Canfield Avenue intersection. The left lane on Route 10 westbound will be maintained during construction. Route 10 eastbound will not be affected. In addition, there will be no access to Canfield Avenue from Route 10 eastbound and westbound, which will affect anyone going to the Motor Vehicle Commission office and inspection station located on Canfield Avenue north of Route 10. The following detours will be in place:

Route 10 to Canfield Avenue/CR 669 northbound (to Motor Vehicle Commission):

  • Motorists on Route 10 will be directed to take Dover Chester Road/CR 513 northbound (for Route 10 westbound traffic, this is before Canfield Avenue)
  • Turn left onto Quaker Church Road, which becomes Randolph Avenue back to Canfield Avenue/CR 669 northbound (turn left onto Canfield Avenue to go to the MVC)

Route 10 westbound to Canfield Avenue/CR 669 southbound:

  • Motorists on Route 10 westbound wishing to take Canfield Avenue/CR 669 southbound will be directed to turn left onto Dover Chester Road/CR 513 southbound (which is before Canfield Avenue)
  • Turn right onto Sussex Turnpike/CR 617
  • Turn right onto Canfield Avenue/CR 669 southbound

Route 10 eastbound to Canfield Avenue/CR 669 southbound:

  • Motorists on Route 10 eastbound wishing to take Canfield Avenue/CR 669 southbound will be directed to take the ramp to Sussex Turnpike/CR 617
  • Turn left onto Canfield Avenue/CR 669 southbound

  • This is a New Jersey Natural Gas Company project. For further information, please contact 1-800-221-0051.

The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for construction updates and real-time travel information and for NJDOT news follow us on X (Twitter) @NewJerseyDOT, on the NJDOT Facebook page, or Instagram @NewJersey.DOT.





Academy for Biotechnology Inspires Future Leaders in Science and Technology

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Ayana Patel, Nathan Oleyar, Prisha Suresh, Jason Garber, Sanvi Pragada, Harshini Kempegowda

MORRIS COUNTY — The Academy for Biotechnology, located at the Morris County School of Technology in Denville, within the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD), is at the forefront of science and technology education. 

The Academy for Biotechnology is committed to preparing students to be the next leaders in science, technology, and engineering. Through hands-on, collaborative projects, students in the Academy not only gain a robust understanding of biotechnology but are also actively involved in national and international challenges.

In partnership with the Academy for Computer and Information Sciences, biotechnology students are participating in the NASA TechRise Student Challenge, where teams are developing high-altitude balloon mission concepts. These projects allow students to combine their knowledge in climate research, physics, biology, and remote sensing to design proposals with real-world applications for space exploration.

Additionally this year, students will participate in the ExoLab-11 mission, in partnership with Magnitude.io and the International Space Station (ISS). The mission, scheduled for launch with SpaceX on November 4, allows students to participate in a real-time, controlled experiment alongside astronauts, studying the legume Medicago truncatula. Students will track and measure key environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, light levels, and carbon dioxide concentration within the school’s own Exolab. This unique experience will allow students to engage in live astrobiology research, exploring how space affects biological processes and the future of agriculture. 

At the Academy for Biotechnology, there’s always something exciting on the horizon! To learn about this unique high school experience combining comprehensive academics with career and technical education (CTE), the Morris County School of Technology will hold an information session on November 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the Gymnasium. 

Applications are now open, and 8th-grade students with a passion for science and technology are invited to apply at www.mcvts.org/apply. 

The Academy for Biotechnology is a rigorous Career & Technical Education (CTE) program that prepares students for success in post-secondary programs and careers related to the biotechnology field. Students in the Academy will develop research and laboratory skills through learning in a hands-on, project-based model guided by real-world applications.

An academy program of the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) provides students in grades nine through twelve with in-depth instruction in a specific career pathway. Students attend the academy program instead of their local high school unless the academy program is housed in their local high school. Students take their academy class each year along with the NJ State Department of Education’s academic requirements. All academy students receive a high school diploma from the Morris County Vocational School District, regardless of their academy location. Each academy has a unique academy course sequence and opportunities for internships and earning college credit. 

Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) offers a wide range of career and technical education programs that inspire and prepare students to succeed in today’s world and pursue tomorrow’s opportunities. Programs range from auto service and construction trades to healthcare sciences, global commerce, performing arts, and cybersecurity. The high school offers full-time academies and share-time programs on its Denville campus. In addition, through collaboration with local school districts and the County College of Morris, MCVSD offers full-time academies and share-time programs established at off-site satellite locations. For more information visit  www.mcvts.org.





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