Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Home Blog Page 146

Florham Park Rotary Halloween Dog Parade

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Enter Your Dog in Florham Park Rotary’s Halloween Parade and Costume Contest

FLORHAM PARK — Get ready for a day of spooky fun and wagging tails as the Florham Park Rotary hosts its 4th Annual Halloween Dog Parade and Costume Contest on Saturday, October 19th. The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Florham Park Gazebo & Great Lawn, offering a perfect setting for dogs and their owners to showcase their Halloween spirit.

This family-friendly event is open to the public and requires no registration. However, dog owners who wish to enter their furry friends in the costume contest are encouraged to register in advance for a discounted fee. The registration fee is $25.00 if done by October 18th and $30.00 if registered onsite on the event day.

The Halloween Dog Parade and Costume Contest is not just about fun and games—it’s also a meaningful fundraiser. The event aims to raise scholarship funds for Florham Park seniors at any local high school who have demonstrated a solid commitment to community volunteerism. The net proceeds from the 50/50 raffle tickets sold during the event will directly support the Rotary Scholarship fund.

Dogs participating in the contest will have the opportunity to compete in six exciting categories:

  1. Funniest
  2. Cutest
  3. Scariest
  4. Best Dog/Human Team
  5. Most Creative

Whether your dog’s costume is homemade or store-bought, there’s a category for every pup to shine in. This event is an excellent opportunity for dog lovers to come together, enjoy a festive atmosphere, and support a great cause.

For more information, to register your dog in advance, or to learn more about the Florham Park Rotary and their work in the community, visit www.florhamparkrotary.org or email [email protected].

Don’t miss out on this fun-filled day that promises to be a howling good time for all!

Newark Man Arrested for Multiple Offenses Following Traffic Stop

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

On August 19, 2024, at approximately 7:50 a.m., Florham Park Officer Nick Cotterell of conducted a routine traffic stop on Columbia Turnpike near James Street for several observed motor vehicle violations. Among the issues was an expired and suspicious-looking temporary registration displayed on the vehicle.

During the roadside investigation, Officer Cotterell discovered that the temporary registration had been fraudulently created, and the proof of insurance presented by the driver was also found counterfeit. Further investigation led to a search of the suspect, during which a quantity of illegal drugs, suspected to be cocaine, was discovered and seized.

The driver, a 41-year-old male from Newark, was found to be unlicensed. He was arrested at the scene and transported to Police Headquarters for processing. His vehicle was subsequently towed from the roadway.

The suspect was charged with multiple crimes and motor vehicle offenses, including:

  • Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (3rd-degree crime, 2C:35-10a(1))
  • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Disorderly person offense, 2C:36-2A)
  • Possession of a Counterfeit Registration Plate (4th-degree crime, 2C:28-7A(2))
  • Uttering a Counterfeit Insurance Document (4th-degree crime, 2C:21-2.3B)
  • Failure to Keep Right (Motor vehicle offense)
  • Fraudulent Use of a Registration (Motor vehicle offense)
  • Fictitious Plates on a Vehicle (Motor vehicle offense)
  • Operating a Motor Vehicle While Possessing a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Motor vehicle offense)
  • Unregistered Vehicle (Motor vehicle offense)
  • Uninsured Vehicle (Motor vehicle offense)
  • Uninspected Vehicle (Motor vehicle offense)
  • Unlicensed Driver (Motor vehicle offense)

The individual was released on a summons and is scheduled to appear in Morris County Superior Court for a hearing regarding the charges.

Editors Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

Florham Park Jaycees to Host Family-Friendly Oktoberfest Celebration

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
File Photo

FLORHAM PARK — The Florham Park Jaycees are gearing up for a lively celebration of German culture with their annual Oktoberfest event on Saturday, September 21st, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Held in a spacious, park-like setting, this community gathering promises to be an afternoon filled with fun, food, and festive activities for all ages.

Oktoberfest is a time-honored tradition that brings people together, and the Jaycees are pulling out all the stops to ensure that everyone has a memorable experience. Attendees can look forward to an array of authentic German foods, including warm pretzels, savory bratwurst, and refreshing lagers. For those with a sweet tooth, there will be a selection of delicious desserts. And for the kids, hot dogs, mac and cheese, and root beer will be on hand to keep them happy.

One of the event’s highlights is sure to be the Bavarian stein-holding contest. This traditional test of strength and endurance challenges participants to see who can hold a full stein of beer the longest—without spilling a drop! Whether you’re competing or cheering on your friends, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

In addition to the food and games, the event will feature live music, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for dancing the chicken dance or simply relaxing with friends and family. The Jaycees are known for their commitment to bringing the community together; this event is no exception.

Tickets for the event are available at two price points: $40 for those who want to enjoy beer and food, and $20 for those opting for soft drinks and food. Regardless of your choice, you’re sure to leave with a full belly and a smile.

With its blend of traditional German culture and family-friendly fun, the Florham Park Jaycees’ Oktoberfest is an event not to be missed. So, grab your lederhosen, bring the whole crew, and join the festivities. Prost to a fantastic Oktoberfest!

For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

Jigisha Desai Seeks Kidney Donor as She Battles Chronic Disease for Over Two Decades

By
Anikait Sota
-
0
Jigisha Desai

MORRIS COUNTY — Jigisha Desai, a 55-year-old Rockaway resident, has been battling chronic kidney disease (CKD) for over 20 years. Diagnosed unexpectedly during surgery for an unrelated health issue, Jigisha has faced a myriad of challenges brought on by this relentless condition. Despite the pain and fatigue, her determination to mitigate the disease’s impact on her life has been unwavering.

Jigisha’s journey with CKD has been anything but easy. Beyond the physical toll, the disease has affected every aspect of her life. Now, she faces a critical turning point: her only hope for a better future lies in finding a living kidney donor. Without a transplant, the wait on the kidney transplant list at St. Barnabas in Livingston could stretch to 5-7 years—an agonizing timeline given the severity of her condition.

Throughout her battle with CKD, Jigisha has had to navigate the complexities of her illness while caring for her 81-year-old mother and raising two daughters. Despite these personal challenges, she has found a way to give back to others facing similar health struggles. Through her blog and Instagram account, “Cardamom Corner,” Jigisha shares tips on healthy eating, offering guidance on how dietary choices can improve overall health. This endeavor helps others and provides Jigisha with a sense of purpose during her journey.

“I started Cardamom Corner to connect with others dealing with health issues,” Jigisha shared. “It’s important to me that people know they’re not alone and that there are ways to take control of your health. Teaching others how to eat well gives me a sense of purpose and keeps me motivated, even on the toughest days.”

Jigisha is listed for a transplant at St. Barnabas in Livingston, and her transplant coordinator, Allison Moorman, is working diligently to find a suitable donor. Jigisha’s blood type is O+, but thanks to the paired exchange program at St. Barnabas, donors of different blood types can still help her by participating in a donor exchange.

Jigisha Desai is listed at St. Barnabas in Livingston, and her transplant coordinator is Joyce, who can be reached at (973) 322-5082. Although her blood type is O+, it doesn’t matter because St. Barnabas participates in the paired exchange program. If interested, please complete the living donor referral form and include Jigisha Desai as the recipient.

In the face of this daunting battle, Jigisha remains hopeful that with the help of a compassionate donor, she can overcome CKD and continue to inspire others through her story.

Florham Park Jaycees to Host Car and Bike Show

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

FLORHAM PARK — The Florham Park Jaycees, a local civic organization dedicated to community service and leadership development, will hold its annual Car & Bike Show on Saturday, September 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will occur in the parking lot adjacent to the Florham Park Public Library at 107 Ridgedale Avenue.

This event showcases the Jaycees’ commitment to bringing the community together and invites car and bike enthusiasts of all ages to participate. Entry into the show costs $20.00, and those interested can register by emailing Nick Genoese at [email protected] with their name and vehicle details.

Attendees can look forward to an exciting array of trophies and prizes in categories such as “Best in Show,” “Best Exotic,” “Best Modern Muscle,” and “Best Engine.” The Florham Park Jaycees welcome everyone to join in the fun and support of this community-driven event.

SparkNJ Panel Discussion in Madison: How Trust-Based Philanthropy Drives Community Change

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

MADISON — The Madison Area Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), in collaboration with the Summit College Club (AAUW) and the League of Women Voters Morristown Area, invites the public to a free program on Monday, September 16, at 7:00 p.m. The event will occur at the Madison Community Arts Center, 10 Kings Road, Madison.

The program will spotlight SparkNJ, a local nonprofit organization supporting Black-led charitable, community, and civic organizations in northern New Jersey. SparkNJ is unique in its approach, awarding unrestricted funding to organizations that are already significantly impacting their communities but need additional operating funds to expand their work. The organization operates on a trust-based philanthropy model, which does not accept traditional grant applications. Instead, SparkNJ selects its recipients from a pool of nominations made by individuals deeply rooted in and knowledgeable about their local communities.

Lisa Barksy Firkser, Ph.D., a founding member of SparkNJ, will moderate a panel discussion featuring three distinguished participants who have been closely involved with the organization.

Kareemah Harris Baker, who has spent 17 years working as a Child Welfare Administrator, will be a featured panelist. Kareemah is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Rutgers University and has served as a SparkNJ nominator for three years. Her deep understanding of community needs has made her an invaluable asset to SparkNJ’s mission.

Joining her will be Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr, President and Founder of Nassan’s Place, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and families affected by autism, particularly in underserved communities. Nassan’s Place received a SparkNJ grant in 2023, and after seeing the impact of SparkNJ’s support, Nadine took on the role of a nominator in 2024, helping to identify other worthy organizations.

The third panelist, A’Dorian Murray-Thomas, is the Founder of SHE Wins. This nonprofit provides leadership and career readiness training for middle school and high school girls who have been victims of violence in their communities. In 2023, SHE Wins received a SparkNJ grant, which allowed the organization to expand its trauma-informed programs, which combine social and emotional learning with rigorous college and career readiness training.

SparkNJ’s work exemplifies how trust-based philanthropy can profoundly impact local communities by empowering those best equipped to understand and address their needs. The Madison AAUW program offers a unique opportunity for attendees to learn more about this innovative approach to philanthropy and the inspiring work being done by organizations like Nassan’s Place and SHE Wins.

Reservations are not required for this event; all are welcome to attend. This program promises to be an enlightening experience for anyone interested in community service, philanthropy, or supporting Black-led initiatives in northern New Jersey.

Boonton Prepares for Annual Labor Day Celebration to Benefit Volunteer Fire Department

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

BOONTON – The Boonton community eagerly anticipates the return of one of its most beloved traditions, the Boonton Fire Department Labor Day Carnival, set to take place from Thursday, August 29, through Sunday, September 1. This four-day celebration, held at the Boonton High School field, promises a weekend full of fun, entertainment, and community spirit, all while supporting the Boonton Volunteer Fire Department.

Event Highlights:

The carnival kicks off on Thursday, August 29, at 6:00 p.m. and will run until midnight each evening. Opening night will feature live entertainment from DJ Ray Rossi of Blush Entertainment, setting the tone for a lively and festive atmosphere. Attendees can purchase “Pay One Price” wristbands, allowing for unlimited rides throughout the evening—a perfect opportunity for families to enjoy all the carnival has to offer.

On Friday, August 30, the celebration continues with live music from the High Strung Band, playing classic rock and rockin’ country hits from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The wristbands will be available again, ensuring everyone can enjoy the rides to their heart’s content.

Saturday, August 31, is packed with excitement, beginning with the annual Labor Day Parade at 1:30 p.m. The carnival will open at 3:00 p.m., offering plenty of time for attendees to explore the games, food tents, and rides before the live music starts. Naughty Humphrey will take the stage from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., delivering a mix of modern and classic rock tunes.

The festivities culminate on Sunday, September 1, with a full day of carnival fun. The event will open at 3:00 p.m., with “Pay One Price” wristbands available for unlimited rides. From 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., live music by Street Haste will be featured, leading up to the grand finale—a spectacular fireworks display that will light up the night sky.

Food and Games:

In addition to the rides and entertainment, the carnival will offer various delicious food options. The Food Tent will serve classic favorites like burgers, hot dogs, fries, chicken, homemade sausage and peppers, made-to-order pizza, and funnel cakes. The Seafood Tent will delight seafood lovers with raw clams, steamers, mussels, shrimp, fresh corn on the cob, and clam chowder.

For those looking to test their luck, the carnival games by Paladin Amusements and the highly anticipated Super 50/50 Raffle on Sunday offer plenty of opportunities to win big.

Supporting a Worthy Cause:

All proceeds from the Boonton Labor Day Carnival benefit the Boonton Volunteer Fire Department, making this event a fun-filled weekend and a crucial fundraiser for the local heroes who serve the community. The carnival is organized by the Boonton Firemen’s Labor Day Committee, which works tirelessly to ensure the success of this annual tradition.

Don’t Miss Out:

With its mix of thrilling rides, live entertainment, delicious food, and community spirit, the Boonton Fire Department Labor Day Carnival is an event not to be missed. It’s a time for the community to come together, enjoy the end of summer, and support the dedicated men and women of the Boonton Volunteer Fire Department.

Click here for the latest updates and more information about the carnival. Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable, fun weekend in Boonton!

Morris County Officials Warn Against Drunk Driving This Labor Day: “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

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

MORRIS COUNTY — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is working alongside local Law Enforcement agencies for the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility enforcement campaign.

The goal is to deter impaired driving and prevent the tragedies seen in previous Labor Day weekends from happening again. 

During the 2022 Labor Day holiday, there were 490 crash fatalities nationwide, of which 39% of the 190 fatalities involved a drunk driver, and a quarter (25%) involved drivers who were driving with a Blood Alcohol Content level almost twice the legal limit (.15+ BAC).

Among drivers between the ages of 18 and 34 who were killed in crashes over the Labor Day holiday in 2022, 47% of those drivers were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher.

“Driving while impaired, whether from alcohol or drugs, endangers you and everyone else on the road. Even one drink can affect your driving ability, and if you choose to drive, the consequences can be deadly,” Deputy Administrator Shulman said. “That’s why we’re reminding everyone to avoid the risk and always make sure you have a safe ride home, especially if you’re planning to celebrate during the upcoming Labor Day weekend.” 

Drivers should be safe during this Labor Day holiday by planning if they intend to drink. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get home. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment. Drivers should secure a designated sober driver or call a taxi or ride share for a sober ride home.

If a driver finds they cannot drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive – take away the keys and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, dial 911.

For more information on impaired driving, click here.

200 Club of Morris County will be holding its 2024 Annual Meeting

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Mike Marino – affectionately known to millions of his fans worldwide as New Jersey’s Bad Boy – might as well be the element Carbon with his versatility. He’s a comedian, an actor, a philanthropist, basically everything except a husband and father (at least that we know of) who’s shared the stage and screen with names, somehow, even more household than his own.

MORRIS COUNTY — The 200 Club of Morris County invites members and the community to its highly anticipated Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 14, at The Knoll Country Club West in Parsippany. The event, set to begin at 6:30 p.m., promises delicious food, drinks, and laughter, all of which support the organization’s mission to aid Morris County’s first responders and their families.

This year’s meeting will feature a buffet dinner and an open bar, providing attendees with a delightful dining experience. To top off the evening, renowned comedian Mike Marino will take the stage, ensuring a night of laughter and entertainment. The event is free for current members of the 200 Club of Morris County, while non-members can attend for $95.00. However, those who choose to join the club that evening will have their fee refunded.

The 200 Club of Morris County, a non-profit organization with a legacy spanning over 50 years, has significantly impacted the community by providing emotional and financial support to the families of Morris County’s first responders. With over $5 million in death benefits distributed to the families of fallen heroes and more than 725 scholarships awarded to high school seniors from first responder families, the club’s contributions have been a tremendous source of comfort and support during times of need.

Individual memberships to the club are available for $200.00, while a family membership for up to four people is offered at $500.00. Both can be purchased at the event, making it easy for attendees to become part of this meaningful cause.

Seats for the event are expected to fill up quickly, and advance registration is required. Tickets will not be available at the door, so those interested are encouraged to reserve their spots as soon as possible. For those interested in sponsoring the event, Club Administrator Lori Richmond can be contacted at (973) 630-7933 for more details.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity for our members and supporters to come together, enjoy a great evening, and celebrate the incredible work that the 200 Club of Morris County does for our first responders,” said a representative from the club. “We’re excited to see everyone there and to continue our mission of supporting those who risk their lives to keep us safe.”

For more information about the event, to purchase tickets, or to learn more about the 200 Club of Morris County, visit their website at 200clubofmorriscounty.com.

This Annual Meeting is more than just a gathering; it’s a chance to network, enjoy top-tier entertainment, and support a cause that honors the bravery and dedication of Morris County’s first responders. Mark your calendars for November 14, and don’t miss this special evening at The Knoll Country Club West.

Florham Park Rehab & Healthcare Hosts Movie Night on the Lawn

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

FLORHAM PARK — Get ready for a fun-filled evening under the stars as Florham Park Rehab & Healthcare presents Movie Night on the Lawn on Monday, August 28, at 7:00 p.m. This family-friendly event will be held at Florham Park Rehab & Healthcare, located at 190 Park Avenue, Florham Park.

The evening’s featured movie will be the animated adventure Migration, promising entertainment for attendees of all ages. Families are encouraged to bring their chairs or blankets to enjoy the movie comfortably on the lawn. In addition to the film, a variety of movie snacks will be available for purchase, adding to the classic outdoor cinema experience.

This event is not only a great opportunity for community members to gather and enjoy a night out, but it also supports a meaningful cause. All donations collected during the event will go to the Alzheimer’s Association, helping to fund research and support services for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

“We’re thrilled to host this special Movie Night on the Lawn for our community,” said a Florham Park Rehab & Healthcare representative. “It’s a wonderful way for families to spend time together, enjoy a great film, and contribute to a cause that touches so many lives.”

With its fun, community spirit, and charitable giving, this event will surely be a highlight of the summer. Mark your calendars for August 28 and join in for an unforgettable evening at Florham Park Rehab & Healthcare’s Movie Night on the Lawn. For more information, contact the center at (973) 867-1500 or visit their website at florhamparkrehab.com.

1...145146147...659Page 146 of 659

RECENT POSTS

BUSINESS BRIEFS

LOCAL COMMUNITIES

ABOUT US

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.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2024 Zoomus Marketing, LLC.

Translate »