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Local Mayors to Host Free Mental Health Seminar

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MORRIS PLAINS — Residents concerned about mental health issues in their families will have an opportunity to gather valuable information at a Free Mental Health Symposium scheduled for September 17, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., at the Morris Plains Borough School Auditorium, located at 500 Speedwell Avenue.

The seminar is being organized by several local Mayors, including:

  • Mayor Jason Karr, Borough of Morris Plains
  • Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Hanover Township
  • Mayor Joseph Pannullo, East Hanover Township
  • Mayor Mark Taylor, Borough of Florham Park
  • Mayor Tim Dougherty, Town of Morristown
  • Mayor Donna Guariglia, Morris Township
  • Mayor James Barberio, Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills

In addition to the Mayors, State Senator Joe Pennacchio, Assemblyman Brian Bergen, Sheriff Jim Gannon, and Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw will participate in the event.

This symposium is designed for concerned parents, particularly middle or high school students facing challenges, as well as family members who may be worried about an aging parent or friend. The event will provide essential information on addiction services, educational resources, and positive choices for struggling people. Attendees will also learn where to find assistance for family members or friends in need.

This free event is an excellent opportunity for residents to connect with local leaders and experts, gain insight into mental health resources, and find support for those facing difficulties.

For more information, residents are encouraged to contact their local Mayor’s office or visit the Morris Plains Borough School website.

YMCA Introduces Exciting New Fitness Classes This Fall

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With this new lineup, the YMCA is not just offering fitness classes; they’re creating a community of health-conscious individuals dedicated to improving their physical and mental well-being.

HANOVER—The Greater Morristown YMCA is gearing up to offer an array of exciting new fitness classes this fall, providing residents with a fresh opportunity to enhance their health and well-being. Starting in early September, these classes will cater to various fitness levels and interests, ensuring something for everyone.

Kicking off the week, Easy Rider will debut on Monday, October 7, at 9:30 a.m., perfect for those looking to ease into a regular exercise routine.

On Wednesdays, fitness enthusiasts can jumpstart their day with Express Balance & Posture in Studio A at 11:30 a.m., beginning September 4. Later that evening, Strength & Core Training will take place in Studio B at 5:45 p.m. starting September 4. Previously known as Bootcamp Strength, this class is designed to challenge participants and build core strength.

Starting September 5, Thursdays will offer an early morning wake-up call with Sculpt Pilates at 6:15 a.m. in Studio A. This class, formerly known as Yoga, will help participants tone and strengthen their muscles. Following that, at 8:00 a.m., Strength & Endurance in Studio A will further test your limits. For those who prefer an evening workout, Spin will be available starting on September 12 at 5:30 p.m., providing a high-energy cardio session.

As the week winds down, Fridays will feature Happy Hour Yoga in Studio B at 4:30 p.m., beginning September 20. This class is designed to help participants unwind and relax, marking the perfect transition into the weekend.

Finally, Saturdays will see two back-to-back morning sessions. Bootcamp in Studio A will kick off at 9:15 a.m., starting September 7, offering a rigorous workout for those looking to push their physical limits. Following that, at 10:30 a.m., Vinyasa Yoga in Studio A will provide a more mindful, flow-based yoga practice starting September 7.

With this new lineup, the YMCA is not just offering fitness classes; they’re creating a community of health-conscious individuals dedicated to improving their physical and mental well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just beginning your fitness journey, these new classes provide the perfect opportunity to stay active and connected this fall.

Stay tuned to the YMCA’s schedule for any updates, and make sure to secure your spot in these exciting new classes!

The Greater Morristown YMCA is located at 79 Horsehill Road in Cedar Knolls. You can reach the YMCA by calling (973) 267-0704.

Schenck, Price, Smith & King LLP Partner Ranked in Chambers USA 2024

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Farah N. Ansari

FLORHAM PARK — Farah N. Ansari, Co-Chair of the Nonprofit Practice Group and a Tax Planning Practice Group member at Schenck, Price, Smith & King LLP, was recently ranked Band 2 in Tax Law in Chambers USA 2024.

Ansari acts as outside legal counsel to nonprofit organizations. She has extensive expertise working with charities, foundations, schools, hospitals, religious institutions, and other tax-exempt organizations in New York and New Jersey. Counseling on establishing private foundations and public charities, governance, contract negotiation, and tax exemption compliance are integral parts of Farah’s profession.

Farah is a Fellow of the American College of Tax Counsel and the American Bar Foundation. She currently chairs the Tax-Exempt Organizations Committee of the Taxation Section of the New Jersey State Bar Association and has previously served as Chair of the Taxation Section. She is also a Community Foundation of New Jersey’s Legal, Wealth & Tax Advisory Committee member.

In addition, Farah is a member of the New York City Bar’s Non-Profit Organizations Committee and the Government Relations Council of Nonprofit New York. She serves on the boards of the Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS) and Women@NJPAC and is a member of the TEGE Exempt Organizations Council. Farah frequently speaks on topics related to nonprofits and taxes.

Schenck Price Managing Partner John E. Ursin, Esq., congratulated Farah on this top honor. “This is impressive recognition but very well deserved. Farah is known to her colleagues as knowledgeable and dedicated to the firm’s nonprofit clients. We are proud of our prominence in providing legal services to nonprofit organizations and supporting their good work in our community.”

ABOUT CHAMBERS USA:

Chambers USA is the world’s leading legal data and analytics provider, highlighting the top lawyers and law firms across the USA for over two decades. Their legal rankings are renowned for accuracy, depth, and quality, conducted by a dedicated team of independent researchers, ensuring that their outcomes are trusted and credible globally.

ABOUT FARAH N. ANSARI:

Farah N. Ansari is a partner at Schenck Price, where she is Co-Chair of the Nonprofit Practice Group and a Tax Planning Practice Group member. Farah acts as outside counsel to nonprofits and has significant experience counseling nonprofit organizations, including charities, foundations, educational institutions, arts organizations, religious organizations, hospitals, and other tax-exempt entities in New York and New Jersey. Her practice includes advising on forming public charities and private foundations, including those with foreign operations, and assisting with transactions, contract negotiations, and tax exemption compliance.

Farah is a Schenck Price’s Management Committee member and chairs the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee.

ABOUT SCHENCK, PRICE, SMITH & KING:

Schenck, Price, Smith & King is a full-service law firm with offices in Northern New Jersey and Manhattan, serving closely held, growing companies. For 112 years, Schenck Price has represented commercial businesses, individuals, public institutions, and charitable organizations with excellence and integrity. The firm’s long history of legal excellence spans areas including health care, education, construction, trust and estate planning, corporate law, real estate, insurance defense, banking, and commercial litigation. The firm’s practices include telecommunications, technology, environmental law, corporate governance, labor and employment law, and family law. Many of Schenck Price’s attorneys are recognized leaders in their respective fields.

Madison Chamber announces Lorraine Brites of The Max Challenge Madisonas the winner of the 2024 Extra Mile Award

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Lorraine Brites & Chamber Vice President Randy Hurley

MADISON — The Madison Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce Lorraine Brites of The Max Challenge Madison as the 2024 Extra Mile Award recipient.

The Extra Mile Award recognizes exceptional individuals who consistently demonstrate outstanding customer service and a commitment to positively impacting their customers’ or clients’ experiences.

Lorraine Brites is frequently described as genuinely caring about everyone she welcomes into The Max. “She always goes out of her way to lend a helping hand. She is friendly, warm, and charming. Lorraine is kind, supportive, motivating, helpful, and has a million-dollar smile. She is an inspiration, and we love her,” shared a nominator.

The Extra Mile Award is determined by a community vote, with winners selected from nominations submitted by customers and clients. Lorraine was announced as the winner at the Chamber’s Annual Awards Dinner on June 11 at The Madison Hotel, 1 Convent Road, Morristown.

CCM Leader Vivyen Ray Recognized for Excellence in Workforce Leadership by ROI-NJ

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Vivyen Ray, SHRM-SCP

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) has announced that Vivyen Ray, SHRM-SCP, who serves as the vice president of Human Resources and Labor Relations, has been honored by being named to ROI-NJ’s Influencers: People of Color 2024 list. ROI-NJ, a respected business publication in New Jersey, releases this annual list to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions of workforce leaders of color across the state.

Ray is acknowledged alongside a distinguished group of professionals, including CEOs, presidents, vice presidents, and global leaders from various sectors such as industry, education, healthcare, and more. She is notably the only honoree from a community college.

“Vivyen Ray is an invaluable asset to CCM, and we are incredibly proud to have her as part of our senior leadership team,” said Dr. Anthony Iacono, president of CCM. “Her remarkable contributions to both the college and the broader community are truly exemplary, and she highly deserves this recognition by ROI.”

With over 30 years of experience, Ray has held senior administrative roles in higher education and corporate sectors, specializing in human resources, labor relations, training and development, and organizational development. She has also taught at Essex County College in New Jersey and the University of Mount Saint Vincent in New York, covering human resources, business management, entrepreneurship, and strategic planning.

Ray holds a bachelor’s degree in Personnel and Labor Relations from the University of Baltimore and a master’s in Human Resource Education from Fordham University. She is currently ABD (All But Dissertation) from the University of Phoenix. Additionally, she has earned numerous certifications from respected institutions, including SHRM, ATIXA, and Rutgers Law School.

A Senior Certified Professional with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-SCP) and a Certified Workplace Mediator, Ray also retired as a Sergeant First Class after 22 years of service in the Army Reserves, where she played a key role in training non-commissioned officers and soldiers.

Ray expressed her gratitude for the recognition, saying, “I am honored to be recognized by ROI-NJ alongside other leaders in the state. I truly love what I do each day here at CCM.”

CCM is recognized as the top community college in New Jersey by several rankings, including those from Payscale and Intelligent. The college’s Center for Workforce Development is dedicated to providing a skilled workforce for regional employers and offers tailored training programs for individuals and businesses alike.

Man Wanted by U.S. Marshals Arrested After Traffic Stop

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The Morris County Correctional Facility, located at 43 John Street in Morris Township, serves as the primary detention center operated by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

MORRIS COUNTY — On the evening of August 23, around 9:40 p.m., Marcus Olivera-Leon of Elizabeth was stopped by Denville police while driving an unregistered vehicle on Augusta Street and Legion Place. The vehicle was initially pulled over because its brake light was out.

During the stop, officers discovered that Olivera-Leon had active warrants for his arrest and was wanted by the United States Marshals for violating probation. Following his arrest, Olivera-Leon was taken to police headquarters and later committed to the Morris County Correctional Facility due to the outstanding warrants.

In addition to his arrest, Olivera-Leon was issued motor vehicle summonses for operating an unregistered vehicle, driving without a license, and having a non-functioning brake light. He is scheduled to appear in Denville Municipal Court later to address these violations.

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 Rotary Halloween Dog Parade

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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