MORRIS COUNTY — The 2024 Golf Tournament of Hope marks the second annual event in New Jersey, continuing its tradition as a vital fundraiser for Lily’s Hope Foundation, which has supported preemies and their families since 2014. The event will occur on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at Knoll Country Club West in Parsippany.
The 2024 Golf Tournament of Hope will kick off with registration and breakfast at 7:00 a.m., followed by an 8:00 a.m. shotgun start for the golfers. After a morning on the course, participants will gather from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. for a catered lunch, including an hour of open bar.
Golfers of all skill levels are invited to this fun-filled day, which includes breakfast, lunch, raffles, contests, and more. Early registration is encouraged, and prices will increase on September 1, 2024.
MORRIS COUNTY — He’s finished. August 20 marks the end of Sen. Bob Menendez’s decades-long political career. Forced to resign from the seat he held for 18 years after losing his party’s backing, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn says he should also lose his state pension.
“Bob Menendez used his position as a Senator to line his pockets, apparently quite literally, while doling out political favors,” Dunn (R-Morris) said. “His actions are a disgrace to the esteemed offices he occupied, and he should not receive one more tax dollar from the constituents whose trust he has finally and completely shattered.
Elected or appointed officials convicted of crimes involving their government office would forfeit their pension under Dunn’s bill (A4430). Menendez, who served as mayor of Union City and as a state assemblyman before ascending to Congress in 1993, currently draws a $1,066-per-month state pension, which he has done since 2019, on top of his $139,200 annual salary as Senator.
In July, a jury convicted Menendez on 16 federal charges ranging from bribery, fraud, obstruction, and acting as a foreign agent. Federal prosecutors accused him of accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of bribes—including cash, a Mercedes-Benz, and gold—for political favors. His wife, Nadine, was also charged, but the judge indefinitely delayed her case.
In response, Democrats, including fellow New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and Gov. Phil Murphy, called for Menendez’s resignation immediately following his conviction on July 16. However, he refused and instead declared his intent to run as an “independent Democrat” when Congressman Andy Kim secured the Democratic nomination for his seat in the June primaries.
The beleaguered Senator abandoned his reelection bid by mid-August and was replaced by Murphy’s former chief of staff, George Helmy. Under the Honest Leadership and Open Government Act of 2007—a bill he voted for—Menendez will lose his federal pension.
“In his pursuit of corrupt power and wealth, he forfeited it all, including his legacy,” Dunn said. “No one who abuses his or her office in such a way should ever expect to receive benefits for a service marred by criminal acts.”
DOVER — St. John’s Episcopal Church is excited to announce its upcoming Yard Sale/Flea Market on Saturday, September 7, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event will be held at the church’s location at 11 South Bergen Street. In case of inclement weather, a rain date has been scheduled for the following Saturday, September 14.
This community event is a fantastic opportunity for residents to come together, browse through various items, and find unique treasures at bargain prices. Whether you’re looking for household items, collectibles, or furniture or want to enjoy a day out with friends and family, the Yard Sale/Flea Market at St. John’s Episcopal Church is the place to be.
The sale will feature many goods, including books, toys, electronics, clothing, etc. The event not only offers a chance to snag some great deals but also supports St. John’s Episcopal Church’s ongoing community efforts.
Interested individuals can contact Manny at (973) 598-5160 for more information about the event or via email at [email protected]. The church encourages everyone in the Dover area to attend and enjoy a day of shopping and community spirit.
Mark your calendars and stop by on September 7th for what promises to be a fun and rewarding event for all!
Relax and Unwind: Senior Garden Visit & Open House Planned for Hanover Seniors
HANOVER — On Wednesday, September 25, the Hanover Township Recreation Department will host a delightful Senior Garden Visit & Open House at the picturesque Stoney Brook Community Farm and Garden. The event, scheduled from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., will welcome senior residents from across the township for an afternoon of relaxation and community engagement in Whippany’s beautiful natural surroundings.
The free event will allow participants to unwind amidst vibrant greenery and peaceful walking paths. Attendees can explore the lush garden, socialize with fellow residents, and take in the tranquility that Stoney Brook Community Farm and Garden is known for. As part of the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, the event aims to promote well-being and a healthy lifestyle among Hanover’s senior community.
In addition to enjoying the garden’s natural beauty, attendees can purchase bucket hats, a popular item sold for $20.00 each. Payments will be accepted in exact cash or by check made out to the “Township of Hanover,” adding a touch of community spirit and supporting local initiatives.
Complimentary bottled water will hydrate guests as they stroll through the gardens. With the warm September weather expected, the refreshments will be a welcome addition for those in attendance.
Registration for the event is open exclusively to Hanover Township senior residents via the Community Pass system, ensuring that the local senior community has ample opportunity to participate in this special day.
The Senior Garden Visit & Open House will not only allow visitors to appreciate nature but also foster social connections among Hanover’s senior residents. The event will be a testament to the Recreation Department’s commitment to providing meaningful and enjoyable experiences for the township’s older population.
Residents are encouraged to click here and stay connected with the Hanover Township Recreation Department for more information on upcoming events and programs.
MORRIS COUNTY—Homeowners are leaving significant equity behind by selling their dated homes in as-is condition. ‘Prep to List,’ the pre-sale home experts, quickly prepare your home for sale with high-return cosmetic updates and repairs.
‘Prep to List’ manages the entire process, so it’s hassle-free. They know what buyers are looking for, and their updates are described as high-quality and modern while costing about 50% less than a full renovation.
Today’s buyers are willing to pay a premium for modern, move-in-ready homes that need little to no work. Sellers can see a 2X-3X return in just a few weeks. *There is also a pay-at-closing option for those selling immediately.
The company highlights the key areas for a light cosmetic pre-sale refresh: neutral paint, updated kitchens and baths, enhanced curb appeal, and more. With a keen understanding of what sells, their approach ensures homes sell for significantly more.
“Investing in your home before selling is financially smart, allowing you to profit/benefit immediately from the sale,” a company representative stated. Their clients often see substantial home value increases with minimal homeowner effort in a short time.
No homeowner should leave over $100,000+ of their equity on the table when selling. If you’re selling soon or within the next few years, reach out to Prep to List for a free consultation.
For more information, contact them directly: Prep to List, The Pre-Sale Experts Call or Text: (973) 221-4800 www.PreptoList.com instagram.com/preptolist Morris County & surrounding areas New Jersey, North & Central
Students Grow Fresh Produce and Leadership Skills with Community Garden
MORRIS COUNTY — The Montville Township High School Key Club is a student-led organization dedicated to community service and leadership development. Through various initiatives, the club provides students opportunities to give back to their community while developing essential skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and civic engagement. The Community Garden project is one of their many efforts to make a tangible difference in the lives of residents. The garden teaches students about sustainable agriculture and reinforces the importance of community service by providing fresh produce to those in need.
Danielle Mangione-Vasser, Secretary of Montville Kiwanis, said, “We sincerely thank the Key Club Advisors, Montville Kiwanis, and the Food Pantry Committee and Volunteers for their invaluable contributions. Their support enables the Key Club to make a meaningful impact in our community by providing fresh, nutritious food to those who rely on the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry.”
Montville High School Key Club Harvests Eggplants and More for Community Impact
The Montville Kiwanis Club, a local chapter of the global Kiwanis International organization, is pivotal in supporting youth leadership and community service initiatives in the Montville Township area. By partnering with the Montville High School Key Club, the Kiwanis Club helps to mentor young leaders and provide the resources needed to carry out impactful projects like the Community Garden. The club’s commitment to serving the community is evident in its ongoing support of various charitable endeavors, including educational scholarships, service projects, and local outreach programs.
The Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry is a vital resource for individuals and families facing food insecurity. Operated by volunteers and supported by donations from the community, the pantry provides essential groceries, fresh produce, and other necessities to those in need. The Food Pantry, the Key Club, and the Kiwanis Club partnership highlight the collaborative spirit that drives community service in Montville. Together, these organizations ensure that vulnerable residents have access to nutritious food, reinforcing the importance of community solidarity and support.
For more information on joining the Montville Kiwanis Club, click here.
Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry Receives Fresh Produce from Key Club Garden
Kiwanis members Anthony Santangelo, Matthew O'Leary, Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town President Frank Cahill and Marilyn Ward
BOONTON — The Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town, serving Boonton, Mountain Lakes, and Boonton Township, recently made a generous donation of essential items to the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry. The donated items included toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, pill containers, and hand sanitizers, all of which will support the pantry’s efforts to meet the needs of the community.
The Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town, serving the communities of Boonton, Mountain Lakes, and Boonton Township, is a dedicated service organization committed to improving the lives of children and supporting local communities. As part of the global Kiwanis International network, the club engages in various projects and initiatives that address the area’s unique needs, from educational programs to community-building activities. By fostering partnerships and encouraging volunteerism, the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life in these towns, impacting the youth and the broader community.
Contact President Frank Cahill at (973) 559-6000 to learn more about the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town.
Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry in Boonton is a vital resource for individuals and families facing food insecurity in the community. Operated by volunteers and supported through local donations, the pantry provides essential groceries, fresh produce, and non-perishable items to needy people. With a mission to ensure that no one in Boonton and the surrounding areas goes hungry, Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry serves as a beacon of hope, offering sustenance and a sense of dignity and support to its clients. The pantry’s commitment to fighting hunger reflects the caring and compassionate spirit of the Boonton community. Click here for more information.
Dover Historical Society to Host Open House at Condict House Museum
DOVER — The Dover Area Historical Society will host an open house at The Condict House at 55 W. Blackwell Street in Dover (next to the Presbyterian Church) on Saturday, August 17, 2024. The museum will first welcome the Dover High School Class of 1974 for a private visit at 11:30 a.m. for their 50th reunion celebration. The museum will open to the public from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Visitors are invited to explore the museum and discover new additions to the collection that capture the rich history of Dover. The event is free and open to everyone. Parking is available behind the museum, on Bassett Highway, or the side street near the former Harry Loory’s. Come and enjoy a trip down memory lane in this historic setting!
EAST HANOVER — The East Hanover Health Department will conduct an SMAC blood testing program for residents of East Hanover and Roseland who are 18 years or older. The event will take place from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 21, at the Thomas Rinaldi Center, located on 5th Street in East Hanover.
The SMAC blood test is a comprehensive screening that analyzes more than 20 components, including total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, glucose, and a complete blood count. In addition to the blood tests, nursing staff will be on hand to provide blood pressure screenings, and health education brochures will be available for participants.
To participate in this clinic, residents must schedule an appointment by calling (973) 888-6035. Appointments can be made between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, Monday through Friday. Slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Fasting for 12 hours before the test is required, meaning participants should refrain from eating or drinking anything during that period. However, those on medication may continue taking their prescribed medicines as usual.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County has once again distinguished itself as one of America’s top 25 healthiest communities, earning 16th nationwide in the latest U.S. News and World Report analysis.
The “2024 Healthiest Communities” report evaluated 92 factors that contribute to the health of residents across nearly 3,000 counties and county-equivalents in the United States. Counties were assessed on a 100-point scoring system tied to their performance relative to one another across 10 health-related categories, ranging from education, housing environment, and the economy to community vitality, population health, food and nutrition, and public safety.
Morris County has maintained a top position in the report for six consecutive years.
“I am thrilled that U.S. News and World Report continues to rank Morris County among the healthiest places in America. It’s one of the benefits of the high quality of life that everyone living here has worked to develop and maintain for decades. We have the largest county park system in New Jersey, top schools and educational facilities, and access to premium healthcare, including one of the world’s top-ranked medical facilities. Our residents can always be found on our hundreds of miles of trails or taking advantage of our active preservation programs that increasingly expand our open space and protect our many historic sites,” said Morris County Commissioner Director Christine Myers.
Loantaka Brook Reservation in Morris County
“We invite everyone to come here, play a round of golf, go boating, swimming, hiking, or biking; tour our farms, attend one of our many festivals, and shop our many local main streets. To visit us is to discover that Morris County is a refreshing breath of fresh air—literally because we also annually rank as having some of the cleanest air in the nation,” Myers added.
The U.S. News “Healthiest Communities” rankings follow a separate national study released in March by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation that ranked Morris County the second healthiest county in New Jersey for 2023. In January, a Marketwatch analysis report also rated Morris County the 14th healthiest county in America based on life expectancy, health insurance coverage, water and air quality, food security, and healthcare access.
Sunrise Lake in Mendham Township.
The Board of County Commissioners cited a few measures contributing to the success of public health, including:
Continued protection of open space—approximately 18,000 acres to date.
Enhancement of the most extensive county park system in New Jersey, featuring 20,442 acres of parkland, 253 miles of trails, and 38 recreational facilities.
Long-term investments in education, specifically the County College of Morris and the Morris County Vocational School District, enhance skills development, attract business investments, and continuously improve the career opportunities and incomes of the local labor force.
Morris County is consistently ranked as having the lowest or second lowest unemployment rate because of its business-friendly relationship with leading employers and the educational and employment opportunities created here.
The commissioners fund various programs to assist the county’s most vulnerable populations, including seniors and veterans, with access to food, housing, healthcare, transportation, and mental health services.
The county has maintained its AAA financial rating for the 49th consecutive year, which allows towns, schools, and the county to borrow funds at low rates for integral community projects.
Morristown Medical Center was ranked number one in New Jersey for the sixth consecutive year in Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals list and is consistently recognized as one of the best medical institutions internationally.
Morris County has some of the cleanest air in the United States, according to the “2024 State of the Air report of the American Lung Association, which again cited no days of particle pollution or high ozone.
For more information about U.S. News and World Report’s “Healthiest Communities” rankings, visit the U.S. News Healthiest Communities platform by clicking here.
