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Education Foundation Announces 8th Annual 5K Run for Health and Community Walk

By
Frank Cahill
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5K Race

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — The Hanover Township Education Foundation has announced its 8th Annual 5K Run for Health and One-Mile Community Fun Walk, set for Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Whippany Park High School.

The popular community event will bring together runners, walkers, families, and local businesses for a morning focused on fitness, fun, and community spirit. Proceeds will directly support classroom grants, educational resources, and innovative student programs across Hanover Township’s K–12 schools. 

The One-Mile Fun Walk will begin at 8:15 a.m., followed by the 5K Run at 8:30 a.m. The walk is stroller-friendly and open to participants of all ages, including families and well-behaved dogs. 

Registration is currently open online. The 5K costs $35 for ages 13 and up and $25 for children 12 and under, increasing to $40 and $30 on race day. The One-Mile Fun Walk is $25 in advance and $30 on race day. Same-day registration will close at 8:00 a.m. Participants who register by April 30, 2026, will receive an event T-shirt while supplies last. 

Pre-race packet pickup is scheduled for Friday, May 8, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Whippany Chiropractic Office. 

Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to participate as sponsors, providing valuable support for educational programs while gaining community recognition. Sponsorships submitted by April 1, 2026, will be included on event T-shirts and signage. 

For additional information or to register, visit the Hanover Township Education Foundation website.

Jefferson to Host Monthly Support Group for Young Widows and Widowers

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

JEFFERSON — A new support group aimed at helping younger individuals cope with the loss of a spouse or long-term partner will begin meeting this spring at the White Rock Pavilion in Oak Ridge.

The Young Widow & Widowers Support Group will meet on the second Wednesday of each month beginning April 8 at 7:00 p.m. The group will be held at the White Rock Pavilion, located at 42 White Rock Boulevard.

The program is designed for individuals approximately 60 years of age and younger who are navigating life after the unexpected loss of a spouse or life partner. Organizers say the group offers a welcoming and confidential space where participants can connect with others who share similar experiences.

“Losing a spouse or life partner earlier than expected can feel isolating,” organizers noted. “If your person was taken suddenly, if you thought you had decades left together, or if you are rebuilding a life you never planned for—you are not alone.”

The group is free to attend, and participants are encouraged to come as they are. There is no pressure to share, and those who prefer to listen are equally welcome.

For more information, residents can contact MaryAnne Cuervo at (973) 713-6918 or by email at [email protected].

Organizers hope the group will provide comfort, understanding, and a sense of community for those facing one of life’s most difficult transitions.

Jefferson Arts Committee Announces Window Painting Contest for Students

By
Frank Cahill
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Illustration created using artificial intelligence (ChatGPT) to represent a window painting activity featuring student artists.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Arts Committee is inviting students to showcase their creativity during its upcoming Window Painting Contest, scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Jefferson Township Public Library.

The event, open to students in grades 6 through 12, offers a unique opportunity for young artists to transform library windows into vibrant works of art while celebrating creativity and community spirit. Participation is free, and all supplies will be provided.

Students may register individually or as part of a team consisting of two to four participants. Teams can be made up of students of the same age or mixed grades and are open to those in-district, out-of-district, or homeschooled. Individual participants will be placed on a team if needed.

Participants will be asked to create artwork based on a Jefferson Arts Committee-approved theme, bringing imagination and originality to their designs. The finished pieces will be displayed for the community to enjoy, with residents encouraged to take part in a community voting process.

An award ceremony will be held at the library following the event to recognize outstanding designs and artistic achievement.

To register or obtain additional information, participants should email [email protected] with their name, grade, and phone number by April 26.

The Window Painting Contest is part of the Jefferson Arts Committee’s ongoing efforts to engage young artists and promote the arts within the community. Donations to support the program are also welcome.

Bucco, Tiver Lead Effort to Shield Highlands and Pinelands from Harmful State Aid Cuts

By
Frank Cahill
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Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-Morris, Passaic) and Senator Latham Tiver (R-Atlantic, Burlington)

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-Morris, Passaic) and Senator Latham Tiver (R-Atlantic, Burlington) are introducing companion legislation to deliver long-overdue financial relief to school districts in the Highlands and Pinelands preservation areas.

The bill, titled “Fairness for School Districts in Development Restricted Areas Act,” would provide additional State aid to districts that cannot close funding gaps through increased ratables due to State-imposed development restrictions under the Highlands Water Protection Act and the Pinelands Protection Act.

“Communities in the Highlands have been asked to shoulder a unique environmental burden for the State while Trenton has failed to hold up its end of the bargain,” said Sen. Bucco. “When a municipality is located in a development-restricted zone, it hampers its ability to generate ratables and leaves families, teachers, and students with fewer resources and fewer options under our broken school funding formula. This legislation is about recognizing those realities and making sure our students are supported and families aren’t left carrying an unfair financial burden.”

Senator Tiver emphasized the importance of ensuring students in the Pinelands are not left behind due to circumstances beyond their control.

“These are tight-knit communities who care deeply about both their schools and the environment. However, the way school funding is structured leaves these districts doing far more with far less year after year,” said Sen. Tiver. “We have an obligation to ensure our schools are funded fairly and equally, because every child deserves access to a world-class education, no matter where they live.”

For years, districts in the Highlands and Pinelands preservation areas have faced a double hit from Trenton. In municipalities where development is restricted by law, their ability to offset school funding losses by collecting new local revenue sources is severely limited.

Under the bill, a school district would qualify for additional State aid if it: has experienced a net loss in funding under the school funding formula (S2); has an enrollment of more than 500 students; and is wholly located in a municipality in which at least 25% of its total acreage is situated in the Highlands preservation area or the Pinelands preservation area.

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry Seeks Donations to Restock Essential Items

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Loaves and Fishes Community Food Pantry located at the First Presbyterian Church, 513 Birch Street, Boonton

BOONTON — Loaves & Fishes Community Food Pantry is calling on residents to help restock its shelves as demand for essential items continues to rise.

Organizers say supplies are moving quickly, and several everyday necessities are urgently needed to support local families who rely on the pantry each week.

Among the most requested items are personal care products such as bar soap, deodorant, shampoo, and conditioner, as well as pantry staples including canned meats like tuna and chicken, pasta, rice, and ramen noodles. The pantry is also seeking 1-pound bags of dry beans and condiments such as mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, and salad dressings.

In addition to basic groceries, there is a growing need for kid-friendly snacks—such as breakfast bars, juice boxes, fruit cups, and both sweet and salty snacks—as well as baby wipes for families with young children.

Every donation, no matter the size, plays a critical role in supporting neighbors facing food insecurity.

Donations can be dropped off at Loaves & Fishes Community Food Pantry, located at 513 Birch Street in Boonton. Residents looking for more information can visit www.lfcfp.org.

Organizers expressed gratitude to the community for its continued generosity and support, emphasizing that these contributions make a meaningful difference in the lives of local families.

Boonton Council to Review Budget, Redevelopment Plans, and Key Ordinances at April 6 Meeting

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

BOONTON — The Mayor and Town Council will convene on Monday, April 6, 2026, for a meeting that includes a proposed municipal budget, redevelopment initiatives, and several new ordinances affecting local regulations and infrastructure.

Click here to download the agenda.

The evening begins with a closed session at 06:00 p.m. to discuss personnel matters, followed by the public meeting at 07:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 100 Washington Street.

Key Highlights

2026 Municipal Budget Presentation
Chief Financial Officer Michael Yazdi will present the proposed 2026 municipal budget. The preliminary figures outline total appropriations of approximately $17.7 million, with about $10.25 million to be raised through local taxes. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for Monday, May 4, 2026 at 07:00 p.m.

Town Administrator Retirement Announcement
Town Administrator Neil Henry submitted a formal letter announcing his retirement effective June 30, 2026, after decades of service.

Community Event Requests
Council will consider several event-related requests, including:

  • Approval to close Main Street for First Friday events on June 5 and October 2 from approximately 04:00 p.m. to 09:00 p.m.
  • Permission for “Boonton Day 2026” on Sunday, September 27, from 12:00 p.m. to 04:00 p.m., with extended road closures for setup and breakdown
  • Approval for the annual Trick or Treat Trail on Saturday, October 17 (rain date Sunday, October 18), including temporary road closures for safety

Consent Agenda Actions
Council is expected to vote on several routine items, including:

  • Approval of prior meeting minutes and payment of municipal vouchers
  • Appointment of Alec Doherty to the Boonton Volunteer Fire Department
  • Hiring of Joseph Morabito as part-time Fire Inspector
  • Awarding a contract for water treatment chemicals totaling approximately $45,845
  • Approval of a shared services agreement with Morris County for the Historic Main Street revitalization project
  • Authorization of professional services related to affordable housing programs
  • Policy establishing no reimbursement for privately completed lead service line replacements
  • Cancellation of over $418,000 in completed capital project balances

Ordinances and Infrastructure

Water System Improvements
A public hearing will be held on a bond ordinance appropriating $990,000 for upgrades to the town’s water supply and distribution system, including improvements to the Wellfield Water Treatment Plant.

New Ordinances Introduced
Council will introduce several ordinances, including:

  • Regulations for massage, bodywork, and somatic therapy establishments
  • An ordinance to exceed municipal budget caps and establish a cap bank
  • Amendments to zoning and construction permit requirements
  • Updates to water and sewer connection fees based on equivalent dwelling units

The meeting will also include reports from municipal officials, public comment, and council discussion before adjournment. Residents may attend in person or participate via Zoom.

Mountain Lakes Police Arrest Parsippany Woman on Outstanding Warrant

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MOUNTAIN LAKES — A Parsippany woman was arrested following a motor vehicle stop conducted by Mountain Lakes Police, authorities said.

On Friday, March 6, 2026, at approximately 7:46 a.m., Patrolman Pierre conducted a traffic stop on Crane Road. During the stop, the officer discovered that the driver, Cynthia Simon, 52, of Parsippany, had an active criminal warrant issued by the Parsippany Police Department in the amount of $1,000.

Simon was taken into custody without incident and subsequently turned over to the Parsippany Police Department.

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.

Mountain Lakes Police Charge Woman Following Restaurant Incident and Arrest

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MOUNTAIN LAKES — A late-night disturbance that began at a local restaurant led to multiple charges and police involvement across two municipalities, according to Mountain Lakes Police.

On Thursday, March 20, 2026, at approximately 11:39 p.m., Mountain Lakes patrol units responded to the parking lot of Ace Hardware on Route 46 West in Denville to assist the Denville Police Department with a reported domestic violence incident.

An investigation determined that the incident originated earlier in the evening at Barka, a restaurant in Mountain Lakes. Police said Ashani Chung had been dining at the establishment when an argument broke out between her and her date. During the dispute, Chung allegedly threw a glass cup, causing damage to restaurant property.

Authorities reported that while officers were taking Chung into custody, she spat on both a Mountain Lakes police officer and a Denville police officer at the scene.

Chung was charged by the Mountain Lakes Police Department with criminal mischief. She was then turned over to the Denville Police Department, where she faced additional charges for allegedly throwing bodily fluids at law enforcement officers.

The incident remains under investigation.

Jefferson Township Receives Funding as Distracted Driving Crackdown Expands Across April

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

JEFFERSON — Drivers in Jefferson Township should prepare for increased law enforcement activity throughout April as part of a statewide campaign targeting distracted driving.

The “Put the Phone Away or Pay” initiative, running from Tuesday, April 1 through Wednesday, April 30, coincides with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and focuses on reducing dangerous driving behaviors such as texting and handheld cellphone use.

Jefferson Township is among 126 municipalities across New Jersey awarded grant funding to support the effort, receiving $7,000 to enhance patrols and enforcement. Local police will be actively monitoring roadways for violations, particularly drivers using handheld devices for calls, messaging, or social media.

Officials say distracted driving remains a major safety concern statewide. In 2024, 42% of all crashes in New Jersey involved distracted drivers, leading to 175 fatalities and approximately 1,500 serious injuries.

Law enforcement in Jefferson will also be watching for other forms of distraction, including eating, adjusting in-vehicle controls, or interacting with passengers—behaviors that can significantly impair a driver’s focus.

Under New Jersey law, the use of handheld electronic devices while driving is prohibited. First-time offenders face fines between $200 and $400, with penalties increasing to as much as $800, along with three insurance points and mandatory court appearances for repeat violations.

The campaign has yielded significant enforcement results in prior years. During April 2025 alone, authorities issued 6,872 citations for cellphone use and 4,337 for careless driving.

Jefferson Township’s participation underscores a broader commitment to improving roadway safety and preventing avoidable accidents through both enforcement and public awareness.

Hanover Township to See Increased Enforcement During April Distracted Driving Crackdown

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

HANOVER — Drivers in Hanover Township can expect heightened police enforcement throughout April as part of a statewide initiative aimed at reducing distracted driving.

The “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign runs from Tuesday, April 1 through Wednesday, April 30, aligning with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Hanover is among the municipalities selected to receive funding to support targeted enforcement efforts.

Hanover Township will receive $7,000 in grant funding to increase patrols and crack down on dangerous driving behaviors, particularly the use of handheld cellphones for texting, calls, and social media while behind the wheel.

State data highlights the urgency of the campaign. In 2024, distracted driving was a factor in 42% of all crashes across New Jersey, resulting in 175 fatalities and approximately 1,500 serious injuries.

Local officers will also be monitoring other common distractions, including eating, adjusting vehicle controls, and interacting with passengers—activities that can divert attention from the road and increase crash risk.

Under New Jersey law, the use of handheld electronic devices while driving is prohibited. First-time offenders face fines ranging from $200 to $400. Repeat violations can result in fines up to $800, three insurance points, and mandatory court appearances.

The campaign has delivered significant enforcement results in previous years. In April 2025, authorities issued 6,872 citations for cellphone-related offenses and 4,337 for careless driving.

Hanover Township’s participation reflects its commitment to improving roadway safety and encouraging drivers to remain focused behind the wheel throughout the month and beyond.

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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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