HANOVER — The Hanover Township Recreation Department is hosting its Annual Fishing Contest, on Saturday, April 27, 2024. The event is open to residents ages 12 and under.
Check-in: 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Fishing: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 Noon
The event will be held at Malapardis Park 191-225 Malapardis Road, Cedar Knolls.
Register via Community Pass.
Prizes are awarded at the end of the contest. Prizes Sponsored by PBA #128.
A new federal Veteran Center Community Access Point is being established in Morris County; the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) announced during a visit by the VA Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal to the Morris County Veteran Services Office in Morris Township.
Joined by U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Morris County Commissioner John Krickus, and a host of other federal, state, and local officials, Dr. Elnahal unveiled plans for the new Morris County “CAP” along with a new Vet Center Outstation in Warren County.
“Vet Centers provide Veterans with high-quality counseling, community engagement, and referral services in nearby and comfortable environments,” said Dr. Elnahal during a press conference and meeting with dozens of area veterans at the Morris County center.
“Expanding this program throughout Northern New Jersey reaffirms our commitment to meeting Veterans, service members, and their families where they are, while also improving the overall mental health and well-being of those who served,” he added.
A Vet Center Community Access Point (CAP) is a satellite location of the VA, typically established in donated spaces in conjunction with community organizations to provide readjustment counseling services to eligible veterans, service members, and their families. The Morris County Board of County Commissioners agreed to provide two rooms at the Morris County Veteran Services Office, located at 540 West Morris Avenue, Morris Township, to support the federal VA satellite services.
The Morris County space already has been prepared for the new federal services and will open soon. No opening date has been set for the Vet Center Outstation in Hackettstown.
“The Morris County Commissioners not only honor our service members on Veterans Day and Memorial Day, but also support them year-round. We thank Congresswoman Sherrill for her support of our veterans, including the $5 million (federal) grant to the County College of Morris for veteran training, as well as her and Congressman (Tom) Kean’s backing of the new VA services announced today by VA Under Secretary Elnahal,” said Commissioner Krickus, a lifelong resident of Morris County and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran.
“Morris County can host this new Veteran Affairs service point because we’ve recently doubled the space for our veteran services,” he added.
Over the past two years, Morris County has expanded its Veteran Services Office and continues to increase staffing, adding a fourth veterans service officer and an intern this year. In 2022, Morris County allocated $350,000 in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds to veteran services, and last year contributed an additional $300,000 to address the growing demand for mental health, family counseling, and other veteran services.
Veteran Service Will Expand if Veterans Keep Up the Demand
U.S. Rep. Sherrill explained that the new Morris County CAP will start providing services one day per week, and increase those visits as the demand for services grows among area veterans. Typically, CAP satellites are staffed from as little as one day per month to several times per week, depending on the level of demand.
“Addressing the needs of New Jersey’s veteran population is a priority for me as your Congresswoman. Over the past few years, expanding Vet Center services to meet the needs of Morris County veterans has become a top concern for the advocates I work within the state and on my Veterans Advisory Board,” said U.S. Rep. Sherrill. “After countless letter writing campaigns, many meetings with VA officials, and tireless community outreach, today’s announcement of the reopening of the VA’s Community Access Point in Morris Township and an Outstation in Hackettstown is a step in the right direction towards ensuring our veterans – and their family members – have access to the care they need. I will continue to work to increase access to high-quality mental health care with a full Vet Center. Thank you to Morris County for hosting us today and for creating space for these CAP services on the same site as their newly expanded Veterans Service Office.”
U.S. Rep. Sherrill and U.S. Rep Tom Kean, Jr., who was represented at today’s event, have supported demands from Morris County veteran organizations for the VA to establish a permanent VA Center in Northwest New Jersey, closer to where veterans in this area live.
VA Centers are community-based counseling centers that offer a wide range of social and psychological services, including no-cost professional counseling for eligible veterans, service members, and their families. New Jersey currently has five locations: Bloomfield, Egg Harbor Township, Ewing Township, Lakewood Township, and Secaucus.
DOVER — County College of Morris (CCM) joyfully announces the securing of $1 million in Community Project funding by Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) to bolster the college’s Workforce Development programs. This funding will extend the reach of CCM programs to the Dover community, prioritizing sectors such as healthcare, technology, engineering, and manufacturing.
Dr. Anthony Iacono, President of CCM, expressed gratitude for this support, recognizing its profound impact on the lives of individuals in the Dover community. He emphasized Rep. Sherrill’s unwavering backing of CCM’s mission to transform lives and fortify communities.
Rep. Sherrill underscored the critical role of CCM in addressing the workforce demands of Morris County and New Jersey. With this funding, CCM aims to extend Workforce Development training to Dover residents. She commended Dr. Iacono and the CCM team for their dedication to enhancing the quality of life in Morris County.
CCM’s Center for Workforce Development offers a spectrum of degrees, certificates, and apprenticeship programs tailored to yield sustainable incomes. These programs furnish employers with a pool of highly skilled professionals. Many certificate programs can be completed in under two months, covering diverse fields from Computers/IT/Coding to Health Care and Business Training. Additionally, apprenticeships in Advanced Manufacturing, Certified Nurse Aide, or Pharmacy Technician are available. Veterans and their families benefit from complimentary bootcamp training in advanced manufacturing.
To explore further opportunities at CCM’s Center for Workforce Development click here.
BOONTON — The Open Space Institute (OSI) announced that the planned trail circling the Boonton Reservoir will be named for community activist and environmental leader, Kim Wentworth. The new trail is a feature element of a public-private partnership between the Open Space Institute (OSI) and Morris County. The 7-mile loop trail, part of the Boonton Reservoir Protection and Trail project, will be named the “Kim M. Wentworth Family Trail.” Once built, the trail will become a landmark recreational space in the heart of Boonton and Parsippany-Troy Hills Townships.
Named in honor of Kim Wentworth, a lifelong New Jersey resident, community advocate, and environmentalist, the trail represents Wentworth’s dedication to promoting greater access to nature for all people. The trail showcases breathtaking views of Boonton Reservoir and offers ample opportunities to view the region’s diverse bird population.
“Naming the trail in honor of Kim Wentworth is a heartfelt recognition of her extraordinary dedication,” said OSI president emeritus, Kim Elliman, who recently retired from the organization. “From her vision for the Boonton Reservoir to tireless advocacy, Kim’s pivotal role in bringing this project to OSI cannot be overstated. The Kim M. Wentworth Family Trail is a testament to her vision, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to expanding public access and securing clean drinking water for this community.”
“The Kim M. Wentworth Family Trail showcases the possibilities of lasting change and the lifting of a community when public and private entities join forces to create opportunities for people to connect with nature and each other,” said Erik Kulleseid, OSI President and CEO. “This trail will welcome people and families as they explore the beauty of the Boonton Reservoir and will serve as a place to find respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.”
Kim Wentworth is a champion for open spaces, outdoor recreation, and environmental conservation. She holds a position on the board of the Community Foundation of New Jersey and is a co-founder of Friends of Jockey Hollow. During her tenure as Commissioner of the Morris County Park Commission, Kim demonstrated exceptional leadership in strategic planning and financial management. She played a pivotal role in establishing a partnership with the Open Space Trust Fund, furthering the cause of protecting and enhancing our natural landscape.
“The peace and solitude that open space offers, especially in a densely populated area is a balm to the soul. The true value of opening this outstanding Reservoir setting to the public will be the happiness and health it brings to our community and future generations,” said Kim Wentworth. “This new 1,300+ acre park at Boonton Reservoir in North New Jersey would not have been achieved without the leadership and working knowledge of Open Space Institute.”
“Thank you so much to all of the individuals, organizations, and elected officials who have played essential parts in making this project possible—especially the Open Space Institute for supporting our local efforts to expand recreational space in New Jersey. It is wonderful to see the Boonton Reservoir trail named in honor of Kim Wentworth and her longtime advocacy for this project. I am proud to have worked with OSI and the Morris County Park Commission to secure federal funding through the Community Projects program to help move this forward. I know it will be a seamless handoff to Morris County and I cannot wait to walk the trails and enjoy the beauty of our state when all is completed,” said Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11).
“In 1999, Park Commissioner Richard Seabury envisioned a trail around the reservoir, drawing upon his deep understanding of the local history and communities. His presentation highlighted the park commission’s nearly 70-year commitment to preserving and stewarding open spaces, safeguarding the Rockaway River. This assurance undoubtedly instilled confidence in Jersey City, ensuring the protection of its primary drinking water sources for residents,” stated David Helmer, Executive Director of the Morris County Park Commission.
OSI spearheaded the development of a comprehensive property management plan for enhancing the Boonton Reservoir, garnering formal approval from the New Jersey City Council after public meetings in 2019. Following two years of extensive site investigations and engineering efforts, OSI unveiled a permit-ready design for the loop trail and water quality enhancements, marking a significant step towards realizing this ambitious public amenity in Morris County.
The 7-mile ‘people-only’ trail will include a suite of sensitively placed improvements built in three phases including three trail entry gates servicing two new parking areas, five scenic overlooks with seating and interpretive signage, several small footbridges and boardwalks, and a new 120’ pedestrian bridge across the outfall of the Reservoir’s historic dam. To ensure improved water quality, the final plan also includes improvements to address drainage and erosion issues including adding native plantings that will help stabilize and filter runoff and create additional wildlife habitat. Once opened, permitted use for the trail will be foot traffic only, including walking, running, and cross-country skiing. Dogs and bicycles are specifically not allowed near the reservoir as a resource protection measure.
The trail project also demonstrates how public-private partnerships can be leveraged to increase public access to nature, particularly in densely developed areas. With OSI delivering on the design, engineering, and permitting, the Morris County Park Commission will take on the trail’s construction and management.
The Boonton Reservoir, spanning 1,300 acres across Boonton and Parsippany-Troy Hills Townships and fed by the Rockaway River, is crucial for Jersey City’s water supply. In 2018, the Jersey City Council authorized a 40-year recreational lease with the Morris County Park Commission to develop and manage a trail there. OSI, with the assistance of local consultants, created a property management plan framing the project for public use. The plan included provisions for water quality improvements. After public meetings in 2019, the project gained formal approval from the Jersey City Council. In 2021, OSI and partners unveiled the permit-ready design for the Boonton Reservoir Protection and Trail Project, proceeding to secure necessary permits and approvals.
OSI’s work on the Boonton Reservoir Enhancement and Trail Development Project has been made possible through public-private partnership and urban-suburban cooperation thanks to Morris County Parks Commission and Mayor Steven Fulop of the City of Jersey City. Leveraged by private investment of $1 million from multiple donors including Atlantic Health System, F. M. Kirby Foundation, General New Jersey Fund of the Community Foundation of New Jersey, The Henrietta McPherson Fund of the Community Foundation of New Jersey, The Luzzi Family, The Randy & Barbara Ann Frankel Foundation, S. Dillard & Adrienne Kirby Family Philanthropic Fund of the Community Foundation of New Jersey, Samuel Freeman Charitable Trust, The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, Kim and Finn Wentworth. Made possible through public-private partnership and urban-suburban cooperation with thanks to Morris County Parks Commission and Mayor Steven Fulop of the City of Jersey City. With additional support provided by: Representative Mikie Sherrill through the Environmental Protection Agency New Jersey Highlands Council and the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
The Open Space Institute is a national leader in land conservation and efforts to make parks and other protected land more welcoming for all. Since 1974, OSI has partnered in the protection of more than 2.5 million at-risk and environmentally sensitive acres in the eastern U.S. and Canada. Over the past 19 years, OSI has worked to protect more than 21,000 acres of New Jersey farms, forests, and local parkland within the Highlands, the Pinelands, the Bayshore, and the heavily developed northeastern suburbs. In addition to the Boonton Reservoir Protection and Trail Project, OSI’s current projects in New Jersey include efforts to create the Northern New Jersey Greenway, formerly known as the Essex Hudson Greenway, a nine-mile linear park located just across the Hudson River from Manhattan with generous support from the Thomas L. Kempner Jr. Foundation.
Through its Delaware River Watershed Initiative, OSI has approved grants totaling over $7.6 million to protect almost 20,000 acres of land to ensure water quality in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. In addition, OSI has supported efforts to integrate watershed science in public and nonprofit planning initiatives to channel funding to protect important watershed lands.
MORRIS COUNTY — Resham “Bobby” Dhannapuneni departed his home in the Punjabi region of Northwestern India and arrived in the U.S. 22 years ago. Among the things that Bobby, as he likes to be called, did take with him was a love of cooking and his family recipes, including some authentically wonderful Punjabi delicacies that are featured at his restaurant, Apna Swad.
Apna Swad, which translates to ‘Our Taste’, is a relatively small, but comfortable and cozy restaurant located on North Beverwyck Road in downtown Lake Hiawatha. The restaurant which specializes in fine Indian cuisine is a family-owned and operated business, with Chef Resham (Bobby) preparing the made-to-order entrees, while his wife Kulwinder takes charge of the appetizers. Son, Suhil, a pleasant and amiable Parsippany High School student helps out, competently maneuvering the dining area, bussing tables, and serving customers. As Suhil puts it, “I manage the “front room” responsibilities while my parents take care of the “back room” (kitchen).
Among the many little storefront eateries along North Beverwyck Road, it is easy to pass by Apna Swad without giving it much notice, but my foodie group and I decided to stop in for a visit after hearing some rave reviews about the cuisine. Chef Resham took a chance, with this, his first restaurant, and acquired the street corner location in 2021 during the COVID shutdown. Previously the location housed a Japanese restaurant, Misaki Sushi. Following six months of extensive renovation Apna Swad was ready to open its doors. The brick and glass frontage, along with the bright red and white signage, and white and maroon curtains, makes for an attractive exterior. On entry, you will encounter a tastefully designed dining room with a limited number of comfortably spaced wooden tables, with cushioned seating and brown cushioned booths. Those large front windows, along with those aligning the side of the room, provide soft, comfortable ambient lighting. Colorful curtains, soft woodwork, mauve walls, hanging ceiling lighting, some simple Indian artifacts, and soft Indian music playing in the background complete the dining room to create a relaxing and welcoming vibe.
On arrival, the very personable and respectful Chef Resham warmly greeted our group. Comfortably seated at a group of tables, already set up in an aesthetically pleasing arrangement, we were able to banter a bit with the Chef about his recommendations for our shared appetizers. Even though we’ve all been to many Indian restaurants before there’s always something new to learn and new tastes to experience. I have always found Indian food to be both exciting and intimidating, filled with exotic ingredients, earthy spices, and distinct and tantalizing flavors, offering a wide and diverse range of tongue-tingling sensations. Needless to say, we were all looking forward to what promised to be a very flavorful dining experience.
Several of us started with a bowl of Mulligatawny Soup (a delicate lentil soup), which I have to say, was fantastic! The herbs and spices, along with the aroma made this creamy soup starter a home run. Delicious! We all followed with a combination of Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian appetizers. Paneer Pakora (homemade Indian cheese squares, batter dipped & fried till golden, and served with a choice of a red or green chutney). I’m on team green chutney. Onion Bhaja (onion fritters), Aloo Tikki (crisp potato patties, shallow fried, with mild spices), and the Chef made us a knock-your-socks-off Special Chicken dish (mouthwatering battered chicken, deep-fried, wonderfully spiced). The appetizers came accompanied by some freshly made, amazingly tasty Papad Bread and Garlic Naan. Everything was thoroughly enjoyed and a great start to our individual entrée choices.
I should note, that everything is made to order with all fresh ingredients. It may take a few more minutes for your meal to arrive because of this, but believe me, it is well worth the wait.
For our entrees, I chose the Fish Tandoori (juicy pieces of salmon marinated in herbs and spices, baked over charcoal in a tandoor). FYI: A Tandoor is a traditional cylindrical clay oven that can produce remarkably high heat that helps the food to char, while it cooks. The fats in the marinade drip on the fire/hot coal and generate smoke which imparts the tandoori foods with their characteristic smoky flavor. I loved it, the flavor and taste was delectable. Others in the group went with Lamb Curry (lamb in a light gravy), Lamb Vindaloo (lamb in a light gravy with red chilis, vinegar, and potatoes), Chicken Biryani (tender pieces of chicken cooked in slow-steamed basmati rice, with nuts and raita), Goat Masala (pieces of goat cooked in a mild sauce with fresh tomato and Indian spices. Finally, Lamb Rogan Josh (cubes of lamb, marinated in Indian spices, and cooked in tomato sauce). We all chose to go with a spicier version of our chosen dishes (Note: Chef Resham can adjust the spice level of a dish to accommodate your particular taste). Along with our entrees, we all ordered a Mango Lassi as a side beverage. Mango Lassi, which originated in Punjab, is a creamy, frothy, yogurt-based drink, blended with water and various fruits or seasonings. It’s perfect to calm the heat of a very spicy dish, not to mention, it’s delicious. The meal ended with a serving of Gulab Jaman for dessert (a light pastry, made with milk and honey in a thick syrup. If you have a sweet tooth this is right up your alley.
Apna Swad gave us a sensational dining experience with wickedly good food, friendly and efficient service, and reasonable prices. We will be back. On a note, Apna Swad does not offer a buffet during regular dining hours but does provide a buffet-style setting when having a private party at the restaurant. They do have an impressive in-house menu offering Veg and Non-Veg appetizers, Cold Appetizers, Soups, Combo Dinners, Chicken, Goat, Lamb, Seafood Specialties, Tandoori Kabab, Biryani, along with a large assortment of Tandoori Breads and Desserts. They also offer several Punjabi-style specials.
All in all, our group gave Apna Swad a unanimous thumbs up. When you’re in the area, stop in and give it a try. Whether an Indian food aficionado or just someone who just wants to experience something new, it is a great place to enjoy some of the world’s most diverse and flavorful food.
ਆਪਣੇ ਖਾਣੇ ਦਾ ਆਨੰਦ ਮਾਣੋ
Āpaṇē khāṇē dā ānada māṇō
Apan Swad (Fine Indian Cuisine) is located at 81 North Beverwyck Road. Phone: (973) 588-3390. www.apnaswadnj.com; Closed Mondays for Lunch. Dine In – Take Out. BYOB – Parking on the Side of Bldg. – Catering – Private Parties; Lunch: Tuesday to Friday – 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday – 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Dinner: Monday to Thursday – 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday – 5:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Sunday – 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine – May 2024. Click here to read the magazine.
BOONTON — Two Boonton Ohio University students have been recognized on the 2023 Fall Dean’s List.
Harrison Gresack and Sammy Gresack were among the students recognized.
Ohio’s Dean’s List recognizes undergraduate students who complete a particular semester with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.999 with a minimum of 12 hours attempted for letter grades that are used to calculate GPA.
In the fall semester of 2023, approximately 6,000 Ohio University undergraduate students qualified for the Dean’s List. A complete listing is available online.
Ohio University strives to be the best student-centered, transformative learning community in America, where students realize their promise, faculty advance knowledge, staff achieve excellence, and alumni become global leaders. OHIO is committed to fostering, embracing, and celebrating diversity in all its forms.
The Athens Campus offers students a residential learning experience in one of the nation’s most picturesque academic settings. Additional campuses and centers serve students across the state, and online programs further advance the University’s commitment to providing educational access and opportunity. Click here for more information.
MADISON — Brian Meder of Madison was among the University of Scranton students inducted into Upsilon Pi Epsilon, the only existing international honor society in the computing and information disciplines. Undergraduate requirements for induction into the honor society include junior academic standing, completion of 18 credits in computing sciences, and a grade point average of 3.2 or higher. Graduate requirements for induction include completion of 15 credits in software engineering courses and a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. The University’s chapter of the honor society was established in 1985.
Brian graduated from Madison High School.
Meder is a junior majoring in computer science at the Jesuit University.
The University of Scranton is a Jesuit university located in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
HANOVER — The Hanover Township Board of Education is inviting the public to participate in a survey designed to seek input for the current Superintendent search process.
You can read the letter they posted on their website below:
Dear Hanover Township Community,
The Hanover Township Board of Education has contracted with Strategic Educational Advantage LLC to assist us with our search for the next Superintendent.
We have created a survey to help us gather information from the entire community regarding the desired characteristics they would like to see in the next Superintendent.
The data collected will be used to create a Profile of the Candidate which will be utilized in our advertisements, screenings, and the Board’s assessment of candidates.
I urge you to use the provided link and take a few minutes to complete this brief survey.
Click here to complete the survey.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and opinions with the Hanover Township Board of Education.
Please note that a “Superintendent Search Info” tab has been created and placed at the top of the District website. Throughout the search process, this new tab will serve to provide a convenient place to access information and updates regarding the Superintendent Search.
Sincerely,
The Hanover Township Board of Education
MORRIS COUNTY — The North Stars Gymnastics Academy proudly announces 12 National Qualifiers from its USAG National Women’s Development Program, with one of its gymnasts dominating the national field scoring the highest all-around among all Level 10s at the annual U.S. regional meets.
After intense competition, six Level 10 gymnasts and six Level 9s from North Stars Gymnastics qualified at the USAG Region 7 Regionals held at the Nittany Valley Sports Center in State College, Pa. April 11-14. The gymnasts are trained by Head Team Coach Ashley Umberger, Faith Baranowski, Heather Moroz, Shenice Martin, Melissa Jones, and Brielle Benoski.
The USAG Gymnastics Women’s Program is comprised of eight regions throughout the nation, representing all 50 states. Region 7 Gymnastics is the governing body of USAG Gymnastics representing Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
The top seven all-around finishers and one alternate from each age group qualify to represent Region 7 nationally. Ten is the top score gymnasts could receive for each event including balance beam, uneven bars, floor exercise, and vault. All-around scores are comprised of all four events with 40 as the highest.
In line with North Stars’ long-standing tradition of excellence, senior Olivia Kelly of Mahwah earned the highest all-around score among all Level 10s from the eight USAG regions with a 39.425. The Missouri Women’s Gymnastics Team commit also won the top spot at the New Jersey Level 10 State Championship last month.
“We are proud to have so many of our talented athletes qualify to compete at these prestigious events,” said Ashley Umberger, CEO, part-owner, and head coach of North Stars Gymnastics Academy. “Their hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, earning them an opportunity to compete and showcase their skills on a national level.”
The Level 10s will compete in the USAG Development Program 2024 National Championship May 9-12 at the Volusia County Ocean Center in Daytona Beach, Fla. The top four all-around athletes from each age division will make up the USA Development Program National Team and receive an invitation to participate in a special training camp. The event will be streamed live via a subscription service.
North Stars’ Level 10 National qualifiers include:
North Stars Gymnastics Academy Homeschool Program, senior
University of Missouri Women’s Gymnastics Team commit
AA champion, first place 39.4250
Beam, first place 9.900
Bars, first place 9.850
Floor, first place 9.950
Vault, 9.725
North Stars Gymnastics Academy Homeschool Program, 7th grade
AA, fifth place 37.4250
Bars, 9.500
Beam, 9.000
Floor, fifth place 9.575
Vault, 9.350
North Stars Gymnastics Academy Homeschool Program, freshman
AA, fourth place 36.8250
Bars, fourth place 9.400
Beam, second place 9.625
Floor, 8.725
Vault, 9.075
North Stars Gymnastics Academy Homeschool Program, 8th grade
Bars, 9.275
Beam, first place 9.650
North Stars Gymnastics Academy Homeschool Program, junior
AA, fourth place 37.4500
Bars, 8.975
Beam, first place tie 9.625
Floor, 9.400
Vault, 9.450
North Stars Gymnastics Academy Homeschool Program, senior
Stanford Women’s Gymnastics Team commit
AA, second place 38.5250
Bars, 9.375
Beam, fourth place 9.500
Floor, second place 9.850
Vault, second place tie 9.800
In Level, 9, gymnasts will compete individually in their respective age groups and as part of the Region 7 National Team from May 2-5 at the USA Gymnastics Women’s Artistic Level 9 Eastern Championships at the Myrtle Beach Sports Center in South Carolina.
Easterns consists of Regions 5, 6, 7, and 8 — representing 26 states in the Eastern part of the U.S. The other half, Regions 1, 2, 3, and 4, will compete at Westerns the same weekend in Coralville, Idaho.
North Stars’ Level 9 qualifiers for Easterns include:
Ridge High School, sophomore
AA champion, first place 38.1750
Beam, first place 9.450
Bars, first place 9.500
Floor, first place 9.675
Vault, first place 9.550
Morris Knolls High School, Rockaway, N.J., freshman
AA 35.900
Beam, 8.525
Bars, 8.375
Floor, fourth place 9.525
Vault, third place 9.475
North Stars Gymnastics Academy Homeschool Program, 7th grade
AA, sixth place 36.950
Beam, 8.725
Bars, second place 9.450
Floor, 9.500
Vault, 9.275
North Stars Gymnastics Academy Homeschool Program, sophomore
AA, third place 36.5750
Beam, 9.200
Bars, 8.600
Floor, 9.300
Vault, second place tie 9.475
William Annin Middle School, Basking Ridge, 8th grade
AA, third place 37.600
Bars, first place 9.400
Beam, 8.950
Floor, first place tie 9.700
Vault, third place 9.550
Dunellen High School, junior
AA, second place 37.6250
Bars, 8.800
Beam, second place 9.425
Floor, second place 9.600
Vault, first place tie 9.800
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners declared April 2024 National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month at a meeting last week, when Commissioners Director Christine Myers presented a framed proclamation to members of Atlantic Health System’s Behavioral Health Team for their work to provide outreach and support to victims through the Morris County Sexual Assault Center.
“More than half of all women and nearly one-third of all men in America have experienced sexual violence according to statistics released this year by the White House,” said Myers. “And let’s not forget about the children who are victimized and who many times are nameless. It can happen anywhere, to anyone, and the trauma is life-changing for victims. National Sexual Assault Awareness Month serves as a critical reminder that sexual assault is a serious societal issue that requires collective action and commitment to create a safer world where everyone can feel protected.”
Kerri Bossardet-West, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Manager of Atlantic Behavioral Health, and Sherry Aitchinson, Licensed Professional Counselor of the Morris County Sexual Assault Center at Atlantic Behavioral Health, accepted the proclamation.
“We want to thank the Commissioners for once again acknowledging Sexual Assault and Prevention Awareness Month,” said Aitchinson. “And to let people know that we are here, and we are available. Our hotline is open 24/7; we don’t want victims to suffer in silence. This is a free service in Morris County, and we want everyone to spread the word.”
Sexual abuse can happen almost anywhere, whether at work, home, school, or other public places—or even online—to virtually anyone, regardless of geography, race, age, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or economic and social background. The trauma of sexual abuse is life-changing for victims and can lead to depression, anxiety, and PTSD, among other physical and emotional impacts.
“We have seen an increase in sexual violence after the pandemic, so your support for the Morris County Sexual Assault Center under Atlantic Health System is very important,” said Bossardet-West. “Thank you for getting the word out that we are here to serve the victims of sexual assault.”
If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault, please call the Atlantic Behavioral Health Sexual Assault Program Hotline: (973) 829-0587. Confidential support and crisis counseling provided by a professional therapist are available around the clock, every day.
Advocates, certified forensic nurses, and specially trained law enforcement investigators of Atlantic Health’s Sexual Assault Response Team are available to address the medical, emotional, and legal needs of survivors 13 years of age and up who are in acute crisis and have been sexually assaulted within five days.
Please visit the Atlantic Behavioral Health website by clicking here for more information on the Morris County Sexual Assault Center.
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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