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Chimney Rock Inn Launches Global Soccer Celebration with USA Match Events & Historic Ticket Giveaway

By
Frank Cahill
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Chimney Rock Inn's Whippany location, located at 800 Route 10 West, is among the restaurant's New Jersey venues hosting soccer watch parties, special international menu offerings, and a major ticket giveaway during this summer's international soccer tournament. The restaurant has been serving guests since 1863.

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — As international soccer fever sweeps across New Jersey this summer, Chimney Rock Inn is inviting fans to gather, celebrate, and experience the excitement together with special watch parties, themed menu offerings, and the largest giveaway in the restaurant’s history.

A New Jersey institution since 1863, Chimney Rock Inn is transforming its locations into destinations for soccer fans throughout the tournament season, creating an atmosphere where families, friends, coworkers, and teams can enjoy the action together.

Soccer Watch Party Packages Available

Chimney Rock Inn is now accepting reservations for private and large-group Soccer Watch Party Packages at its locations in Whippany, Bridgewater, and Flemington. The packages will be available from June 11 through July 19 and are designed for groups of 15 or more.

Each two-hour party package includes food, beverages, additional television viewing areas, and pricing options tailored for adults, teens, and children. Menu offerings include tossed garden salad, appetizers, pizzas, unlimited soda, coffee and tea, along with beer and wine selections for guests 21 and older.

The packages are ideal for businesses, sports teams, offices, families, and groups of friends looking to make match day a special event.

International Flavors Take Center Stage

To complement the global spirit of the tournament, Chimney Rock Inn will debut a limited-time international menu featuring dishes inspired by cultures from around the world. Guests will also have the opportunity to sample imported beverages as part of the seasonal offerings.

The special menu is intended to bring the flavors of the world’s game directly to local diners while enhancing the overall tournament experience.

USA Matches Featured Throughout the Tournament

In addition to private watch parties, Chimney Rock Inn will televise USA matches and many of the tournament’s featured games for guests who prefer to enjoy the action while dining in the restaurant.

The United States match schedule includes:

  • USA vs. Paraguay — Friday, June 12, at 9:00 p.m.
  • USA vs. Australia — Friday, June 19, at 3:00 p.m.
  • USA vs. Türkiye — Thursday, June 25, at 10:00 p.m.

For the June 25 match against Türkiye, Chimney Rock Inn will remain open late to allow guests to watch the entire game.

Additional televisions will be installed for marquee matchups throughout the tournament.

Historic Ticket Giveaway

As part of the celebration, Chimney Rock Inn is launching what it calls the largest giveaway in the restaurant’s history.

One winner will receive two official tickets to the Norway vs. Senegal match scheduled for June 22 in New Jersey. New members who join the Rock Club® Loyalty Program between June 1 and June 18 at 10:00 a.m. will automatically be entered into the drawing.

“This is the kind of opportunity that may not come back to New Jersey for a very long time,” a Chimney Rock Inn spokesperson said. “Chimney Rock Inn has been part of New Jersey history since 1863, and now the restaurant is giving one guest the chance to witness soccer history in person.”

Official contest rules and terms are available on the restaurant’s website.

About Chimney Rock Inn

Founded in 1863, Chimney Rock Inn has built a reputation as one of Central New Jersey’s longstanding dining destinations. With locations in Whippany, Bridgewater, and Flemington, the restaurant continues to serve as a gathering place for families, friends, sports teams, and community members.

For more information, to reserve a Soccer Watch Party Package, or to enter the ticket giveaway, visit ChimneyRockInn.com.

James Madison University Announces Spring 2026 President’s List

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY– James Madison University is pleased to announce that the following students made the President’s List for the spring 2026 semester.

Nina Cinotti of Andover, who is majoring in Nursing – BSN.

Connor Romanker of Lake Hopatcong, who is majoring in Secondary Education – BS.

Mia Magnotta of Oak Ridge, who is majoring in Writing Rhetoric & Technical Communication – BA.

Founded in 1908, James Madison University is a public university located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. JMU is one of the nation’s leading lights in higher education, where students enjoy engaging relationships with world-class faculty who drive education innovation and support advanced research. With state-of-the art amenities and facilities, students have access to NCAA Division 1 athletics. JMU also has the highest post-graduation job levels of all Virginia colleges.

AMC-Anchored Route 10 Retail Center Sells for $13.75 Million

By
Frank Cahill
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The retail and entertainment center at 145 Route 10 in East Hanover, anchored by AMC East Hanover 12 and home to tenants including Chuck E. Cheese and GolfTec, recently sold for $13.75 million.

EAST HANOVER — A Route 10 retail and entertainment center anchored by AMC East Hanover 12 has been sold for $13.75 million, according to reports citing RIPCO Real Estate.

The property, located at 145 Route 10, totals approximately 70,549 square feet and sits on more than 15 acres along one of Morris County’s busiest commercial corridors. The center is home to AMC Theatres, Chuck E. Cheese, GolfTec, Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep, and an AT&T cell antenna tenant.  

RIPCO Real Estate had marketed the property as a fully occupied shopping center with stable cash flow and strong visibility along Route 10. The property was originally listed with an asking price of $14.25 million.  

The AMC East Hanover 12 theater includes 12 auditoriums and is one of the center’s primary draws. The property also includes more than 800 parking spaces, including both structured garage and surface parking.  

According to RIPCO’s marketing materials, Route 10 sees more than 35,000 vehicles per day, making the corridor a major retail destination in Morris County. The site is also near several large-scale redevelopment projects, including the former Novartis campus, where new industrial, logistics, life sciences, and office-related uses are taking shape.  

RIPCO brokers Seth Pollack and Nina Becker handled the transaction, representing the seller and sourcing the buyer, according to published reports. The buyer was not publicly identified.  

The sale highlights continued investor interest in well-located Morris County retail properties, particularly along Route 10, where entertainment, dining, automotive, office, and redevelopment activity continue to shape the commercial corridor.

Yoleydi Figuereo Pineda Honored by Hartwick College

By
Frank Cahill
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Yoleydi Figuereo Pineda

DOVER — Yoleydi Figuereo Pineda was recognized during Hartwick College’s Honors Convocation on April 29, receiving the prestigious Beta Beta Beta Award for academic achievement and demonstrated interest in the biological sciences.

The award is presented to students who have excelled in their studies and shown a strong commitment to the field of biology. Beta Beta Beta, commonly known as TriBeta, is a national honor society dedicated to improving the understanding and appreciation of biological sciences.

Figuereo Pineda is a member of Hartwick College’s Class of 2026.

Located in Oneonta, New York, Hartwick College is a private liberal arts and sciences institution known as “The Life Balance College.” Through its FlightPath approach, Hartwick combines academic excellence, career preparation, and an active campus experience to help students achieve personal and professional success. The college also emphasizes affordability, health, wellness, and experiential learning as part of its educational mission.

Wharton Woman Arrested in Denville on Suspended License and Outstanding Warrant

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

DENVILLE — A Wharton woman was arrested after Denville police discovered she was driving with a suspended license and had an active warrant during a traffic stop on Franklin Road.

According to the Denville Police Department, officers conducted a motor vehicle stop at approximately 8:59 a.m. on June 5 after observing a speeding violation. During the investigation, officers determined that the registered owner of the vehicle had a suspended driver’s license and an active ATS warrant issued by the Mine Hill Municipal Court in the amount of $1,500.

Police identified the driver as Alma Castaneda, 43, of Wharton, who was also the registered owner of the vehicle.

Castaneda was arrested and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing. After posting bail, she was issued the appropriate motor vehicle summonses and released pending future court appearances in both Mine Hill Municipal Court and Denville Township Municipal Court.

Castaneda was charged with driving while her driver’s license was suspended.

Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.

Whippany Man Charged After Allegedly Stealing Dump Truck From Denville Business

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

DENVILLE — A Whippany man has been charged with burglary and motor vehicle theft after authorities allege he stole a dump truck from a Denville business before being apprehended in Morristown.

According to the Denville Police Department, on Friday, June 5, the Morristown Police Department recovered a stolen 2011 Isuzu dump truck that was allegedly being operated by Timothy Geary, 24, of Whippany.

Following Geary’s arrest, investigators determined that the vehicle had been stolen from a business located in Denville. Detectives from the Denville Police Department launched a follow-up investigation into the incident.

As a result of the investigation, Geary was charged with third-degree burglary and third-degree theft of a motor vehicle. Police said he was processed and charged accordingly.

Authorities reported that Geary was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a future appearance in Morris County Superior Court.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.

East Hanover Man Charged After Vehicle Vandalism Investigation Leads to Discovery of Loaded Ghost Gun

By
Frank Cahill
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0

FLORHAM PARK — An East Hanover man faces multiple weapons charges after police investigating a report of vehicle vandalism allegedly discovered a loaded ghost gun and other prohibited weapons inside his vehicle.

Police responded to a Florham Park residence at approximately 2:45 a.m. on May 31 after receiving a report that Ann individually was attempting to smash a vehicle window.

Officers located and stopped a vehicle believed to be involved as it fled the area on Ridgedale Avenue. During the investigation, officers reviewed surveillance footage that allegedly showed the suspect using an object resembling a handgun while attempting to break the vehicle’s window.

The suspect was identified as Frank Cefalu, 53, of East Hanover. He was initially arrested and charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief and harassment, a petty disorderly persons offense.

Police impounded the vehicle and later obtained a court-authorized search warrant. According to authorities, the search led to the discovery of a loaded ghost gun resembling a Glock-style 9mm handgun containing hollow-point ammunition, as well as a blackjack, which is prohibited under New Jersey law.

As a result, Cefalu was charged with possession of a firearm with intent to use it against a person or property, unlawful possession of a handgun, possession of hollow-point ammunition without proper authorization, possession of certain weapons without a lawful purpose and possession of a firearm without a serial number.

Authorities said Cefalu was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.

Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.

Man Charged With DWI After Vehicle Found Facing Wrong Way on Hanover Township Roadway

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

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — A Hackettstown man was charged with driving while intoxicated after police found a vehicle stopped in the wrong lane of travel early May 3, authorities said.

Police said an officer on patrol at approximately 2:28 a.m. discovered a vehicle facing south in the northbound lane of North Jefferson Road and initiated a motor vehicle stop.

Upon making contact with the driver, identified as Jorge Vasquez-Lopez, 28, of Hackettstown, police detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage and observed signs of impairment, according to authorities.

Standardized field sobriety tests were conducted, and Vasquez-Lopez was subsequently arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.

Police said an occupant of the vehicle was permitted to drive it to police headquarters while Vasquez-Lopez was transported for processing. He agreed to provide breath samples for testing and completed the testing process, authorities said.

Vasquez-Lopez was charged with driving while intoxicated, failure to maintain marked lanes and multiple other traffic offenses. He was released to a responsible driver pending a court appearance.

New Vernon Equities Invests $20M in East Hanover Arena Campus Redevelopment

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Arena campus redevelopment continues in East Hanover as New Vernon Equities invests more than $20 million in transforming former Novartis office buildings into a modern office, technology, and life sciences destination.

EAST HANOVER — A major office and technology campus redevelopment is taking shape in East Hanover as New Vernon Equities advances work on Arena, a 600,000-square-foot workplace destination near Novartis’ northeast headquarters.

JLL announced that New Vernon Equities has invested more than $20 million over the past year to reposition two vacant office towers at 20 and 40 Arena Way. The buildings total 350,000 square feet and are part of the larger Arena campus redevelopment. JLL is serving as the exclusive marketing and leasing agent for the properties.

Since acquiring the buildings from Novartis, New Vernon Equities has separated the properties from the pharmaceutical company’s downsized campus. Improvements include new roadways, independent site access, standalone utility infrastructure, upgraded landscaping, outdoor meeting areas and hospitality-style gathering spaces.

The buildings also feature new HVAC systems and a modern building management system. The property holds LEED Gold certification and has been converted to all-electric operations.

Interior renovations and next-generation common area amenities are now being finalized, with plans expected to be submitted in the second quarter of 2026 and work scheduled for completion this summer.

The full Arena campus spans more than 40 acres and will include six buildings totaling 600,000 square feet of office, research and development, technology and light manufacturing space.

New Vernon Equities also acquired nearby properties, including 30 Farinella Drive, a 75,000-square-foot building leased to GenScript for GMP pharmaceutical manufacturing; 31 Farinella Drive, an approximately 50,000-square-foot tech/flex building available for lease; and 80 Arena Way, a 120,000-square-foot tech/flex building expected to begin construction in summer 2026.

“It is rare in today’s office market to see a developer invest this aggressively on a speculative basis,” said Tim Greiner, JLL executive managing director. “New Vernon Equities is delivering infrastructure, sustainability and amenity upgrades that position Arena to compete at the highest level for life sciences, pharmaceutical and innovation-driven users.”

Arena is located near Route 10 and Ridgedale Avenue, with access to Route 10, Route 24, I-287 and Morristown Airport.

Student Leadership, Community Service and Excellence in the Arts Celebrated at County College of Morris 

By
Frank Cahill
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County College of Morris (CCM) celebrated the individuals and groups shaping campus life at the 57th annual Campus Life Awards Dinner Dance (CLADD), held Tuesday, May 5, at Meadow Wood Manor in Randolph.   

MORRIS COUNTY —  As the 2025-26 academic year approached its culmination, County College of Morris (CCM) held the 57th annual Campus Life Awards Dinner Dance (CLADD), on Tuesday, May 5, at Meadow Wood Manor in Randolph. The evening honored student leaders of educational and service initiatives, student club and organization members who helped create a vibrant and engaged campus life, and standout performers in musical theatre, drama, dance and technical production. 

Representing towns throughout Morris County and neighboring areas in New Jersey, including Passaic, Sussex and Warren counties, in addition to the state of Pennsylvania, the honorees reflected the depth of CCM’s student body. Ranging from first-year students to members of the Class of 2026, the recipients successfully balanced their active involvement on campus along with their academic achievements across the college’s more than 100 degree and certificate programs. CCM’s administration, staff and faculty members were in attendance to present the honorees with their awards. 

 “The Campus Life Awards Dinner Dance is one of the most meaningful traditions at CCM because it recognizes the extraordinary dedication, creativity and leadership our students bring to campus each day,” said Don Phelps, Director of Campus Life. “Thes honorees have made a lasting impact through service, involvement in campus organizations and excellence in the performing arts, while also maintaining their academic commitments. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and the vibrant community they help create at CCM.” 

The evening’s honors included the Dr. Edward J. Yaw Leadership Award, recognizing outstanding organizational leadership, community engagement and contributions to education, presented to Samantha Torres Narvaez of Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania.  

CCM’s Board of Trustees Service Award for outstanding service and dedication to the college was presented to Hannah Mescavage of Belvidere, while the Patton Award for exceptional leadership and school spirit was awarded to Layla Giron of Dover.  

Isabella Escobar Lopera of Flanders received the First-Year Award for strong campus contributions during her first year at CCM. The Simmons Award for leadership and involvement was presented to Lily Hesterman of Parsippany, Matthew Alvarez of Flanders and Sumeyye Oztek of Whippany. 

Distinguished Leader Awards were earned by Tifany Araujo of Dover, Salvatore Cappucci of Budd Lake, Wesley Icer of Parsippany, Caelan Lynes of Madison, Sebastian Perez Brid of Wharton and Demetrios Piteris of West Milford. 

Educational Program of the Year honors were awarded to the Environmental Club and EOF Student Alliance for the Environmental Excellence Awards program, and to the LGBTQ Student Alliance for its “Be Yourself” presentation. Community Service Program of the Year recognition went to the Student Activities Programming Board (SAPB) for Welcome Week and to InterVarsity Fellowship for Worship Night. 

The Raulf Award, a performing arts honor recognizing an outstanding student leader, was presented to Chris Gardner of Buskill, Pennsylvania. The Pinnacle Award for Leadership and Performance was presented to Jeff Foote of Westwood and Elizabeth Grant of Parsippany. The Newcomers Award, introduced this year, was awarded to Pinda Pittari of Randolph. 

Additional honors recognized outstanding achievement in performing arts. Musical Theatre honors were presented to Elizabeth Grant of Parsippany, Carolina Hunchak of Denville, Victoria Morris of Budd Lake, Bryan Torres of Morris Plains and Trevour Tredway of Dover. Drama honors were awarded to Ethan Abellard of Denville, Matt Budesheim of Butler, Mak Cerrada-Shapiro of Belvidere, Bryan Torres of Morris Plains and Charlie Valdez of Rockaway. German Tatis Rosario of Union was recognized for outstanding performances in both Musical Theatre and Drama. Technical Theatre honors were presented to Zephyr Daley of Sparta and Justin Wyble of Lake Hopatcong. Outstanding Performance in Dance honors were presented to Hannah Delisa of Landing, Brielle Jones of Rockaway and Lariza Perado of Budd Lake. 

To view photos of the celebratory CLADD event, visit the college’s Flickr album at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCTEkr. To learn more about the vibrant campus life at CCM, visit https://www.ccm.edu/meet-ccm/campus-life/. 

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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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