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July 8: Ribbon Cutting and Concert with Mighty Spectrum Band

By
Frank Cahill
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Hanover Township celebrates the new turf at Brickyard Field with a ribbon cutting. The Mighty Spectrum Band launches the Monday night concert series with their rock and roll hits.

HANOVER — Hanover Township Recreation invites residents to attend the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and first Monday night concert on Monday, July 8, at Brickyard Field in Whippany. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony begins at 6:00 p.m. Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher and Deputy Mayor and Recreation Director Mike Mihalko will cut the ribbon, ushering in the first use of turf at the new multi-purpose field.

Following the ribbon cutting at 6:00 p.m., the Mighty Spectrum Band will kick off the Monday night Music Under the Stars Concert Series. The Might Spectrum Band plays rock and roll hits and features a hard-driving horn section. The Knights of Columbus will collect non-perishable food items for the Inter-Faith Food Pantry, so please bring a donation if possible. The Cub Scouts will be staffing the Concession Stand.

Upcoming concerts include:

•July 15 – Five Wheel Drive
•July 22 – The Nerds
•July 29 – The Kootz

Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, all concerts are free. Please patronize them! Please note that the Nerds will perform two sets: 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

A Party Pleasing Rental (tent) Arden Courts – ProMedica Memory Care; Celebrity Motor Cars LLC; DM Aiprots/MMU; Dosch King Co.; Duck Donuts; Everlast Floors; Hotworx; Knights of Columbus Elizabeth Ann Seton Council 6904; Mimi’s Too (food for the band); Pearly Whites; Planet Fitness; Preferred Business Systems; and name sponsor Wegmans.





East Hanover Resident Interning at Morris County Communication Agency

By
Frank Cahill
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Dominique Mercadante

EAST HANOVER — East Hanover resident Dominique Mercadante began a summer internship at SCG Advertising + Public Relations, a Whippany-based, full-service PR and advertising agency. Mercadante is a junior at Seton Hall University pursuing her bachelor’s degree in communication with a minor in journalism.

The Hanover Park High School graduate is focused on projects that enhance her writing and research skills, including drafting news releases, expanding databases, and creating social media content.

“Interning at SCG provides me with tools to connect what I’m learning in class with real-world situations,” says Mercadante, a Dean’s List student who writes for The Setonian. “Essentially, it’s enhancing my education.”

In the past two decades, more than 200 college students from more than 50 universities and colleges have participated in SCG’s public relations internship program. These students have earned significant professional experience and, in many cases, college credit as well.

About SCG Advertising + Public Relations

Founded over half a century ago, SCG Advertising + Public Relations provides 21st-century communication services highlighted by creativity, passion, and innovation. With specific expertise in advertising, marketing, public relations, social media, digital marketing, and recruitment, SCG is headquartered in Whippany, with regional offices in the metro areas of Philadelphia, Atlanta, San Diego, and Tampa.





Top 15 Summer Festivals You Can’t-Miss in Morris County

By
Frank Cahill
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Randolph Kiwanis Freedom Festival Parade

MORRIS COUNTY — Whether you are a traveler or a local, Morris County’s vibrant summer is filled with exciting events and will surely attract you to this wonderful county. Morris County offers something for everyone to enjoy.  

Whether you are a history buff, a music lover, or a big foodie, you will find events that will pique your interest. Moreover, you will get lost in the excitement if you are simply looking for a family-friendly trip or a getaway with your partner.  

Additionally, for the artistes in your or your family, you can send creative crafts and find an incredible flower delivery service to surprise your partner. Here, we have compiled a list of the top events happening this summer in Morris County.  

From fostering a sense of community and offering entertainment, these festivals celebrate the unique heritage and culture of the place. So, mark your calendar, pack your bags, and set off for Morris County this summer! 

Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival  

Date: August  
Location: Morristown Green, Morristown 

Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival is one of the much-awaited festivals. Set off to Morris County this August and enjoy the festivals with friends and family. The best part of this festival is that entry is free for all.  

Held in Morristown, the event hosts a fantastic line of jazz and blues musicians. You will find yourself tuned to the soulful music amidst the green in Morristown. To add to the amazing experience, you will find local food vendors and food trucks nearby offering mouth-watering food.  

Hence, visitors can enjoy a chilled beverage with a hotdog while singing at the Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival. Additionally, if you get tired of the music and need a recharge, you can enjoy other family-friendly activities or visit the local craft stores.  

New Jersey State Fair 

Date: July- Early August 
Location: Sussex County Fairgrounds, Augusta 

Right outside Morris County, in Sussex County, you will experience the summer highlight of the New Jersey State Fair. A short drive to Sussex County will be worth it when you enter the magical wonderland.  

Straight out of a fairy tale carnival scene, the New Jersey State Fair is an extensive fair that offers thrilling experiences with horse races, games, and thrilling rides. Moreover, the fair is a haven for people with ‘green thumbs’ where you will find rare and unique agricultural exhibits.  

Interestingly, the fair also includes livestock shows and real horse races that attract viewers from near and faraway lands. Foodies will find a variety of delicious options varying from classic fair options like corn dogs and funnel cakes to more exotic items.  

The fair also boasts a lineup of popular singers and local bands. Moreover, there are a lot of fun kid’s activities like pony rides, petty zoos, and other interactive exhibits.  

Morris County 4-H Fair 

Date: Mid-July 
Location: Chubb Park, Chester 

The Morris County 4-H Fair, held at Chubb Park in Chester, celebrates 4-H members and their achievements. 

The 4-H is the United States’ longest and largest-standing youth development organization. The organization has empowered over six million youth with life skills to change and lead.  

This is one of the most popular family-friendly events that hosts contests, exhibits, and various performances that highlight the talent of the youth in the community.  

Your animal-loving children will love the interactive exhibit of zoo animals where you can pet the animals.  

Moreover, the fair also features different unique crafts and art exhibits created by the 4-H members.  

You will also find multiple entertainment options like dance and music performances to add to the overall festive ambiance. The Morris County 4-H Fair is more than an experience; it’s an educational learning event that promotes community engagement.  

Randolph Freedom Festival 

Date: Early July  
Location: County College of Morris, Randolph  

Randolph Freedom Festival is a great event that jumpstarts the summer with a bang. This patriotic celebration is held at the County College of Morris and features a beautiful fireworks display, live music, and a bustling carnival. The spectacular fireworks show draws families and friends together, and they experience the beautiful night sky lit up.  

Like most fairs, the Randolph Freedom Festival offers many amusement options, such as rides and games. Perfect for thrill seekers and families, the festival also provides delectable food options from vendors who serve tasty treats, snacks, beverages, and full-sized meals.  

Embodying the spirit of Independence Day, the Randolph Freedom Festival offers a fun-filled way to celebrate the 4th of July.  

Chester Craft Show 

Date: Early June and Early September  
Location: Municipal Field, Chester  

In the charming town of Chester, you can visit the Chester Craft Show for an incredible experience to soothe your artiste’s soul. Held twice a year, in June and September, the Chester Craft Show is a haven for artisans and craftsmen alike.  

The event takes place at the Municipal Field in Chester; the event has a footfall of over 200 artisans from across the country. You will be highly impressed with the diversity and the quality of the crafts on exhibit.  

The show makes it a must-see event for any collector or art enthusiast. Moreover, the show also hosts live performances of artists at work.  

You will be amazed by the artistic creativity and talent of artists who create live art. In addition to the artistic marvel on display, you will find local food vendors to keep you full while you’re in the land of art.   

Rockaway Food Truck Festival 

Date: Late June 
Location: Park Lane, Rockaway 

Foodies across the country and visitors should not miss this culinary extravaganza held in late June at Park Lane, Rockaway.  

The Rockaway Food Truck Festival brings all the members of the foodie community together by offering them a diverse selection of food options. These food options include food trucks and other vendors offering unique dishes.  

You will find everything from artisanal pizzas and gourmet burgers to exotic street food and delicious desserts.  

Moreover, you can enjoy your delicious meal against the aesthetic backdrop of Park Lane. You will also find live entertainment and music to add to the festive setting.  

This is the perfect event for all ages. Additionally, you will find some interactive games and activities to enjoy with your family or friends.  

The Rockaway Food Truck Festival is more than a gastronomic festival. It is a community-focused event that brings people together and creates a sense of togetherness.  

Morristown Festival on the Green 

Date: Late September 
Location: Morristown Green, Morristown  

Held in late September, the Morristown Festival on the Green is a bustling event that marks the end of the season with a bang. The festival is held in historic Morristown Green, offering varied events and festivities.  

This vibrant event is in different stages, offering unique musical and live band performances. Sure to get you on your toes with the lively music, the festival allows visitors to explore the unique beer gardens and food vendors. The festival also features many activities for children, such as amusement rides. 

Moreover, local companies and businesses set up small booths providing engaging activities and information to interested visitors. The Morristown Festival on the Green is the best way to end the season. More than an event, the festival offers a great time to delve into community engagement and learn more about the Morristown culture.  

Boonton Main Street Classic Car Show 

Date: Late August 
Location: Main Street, Boonton 

Calling all car enthusiasts to the incredible Boonton Main Street Classic Car Show that will excite you. Held in late August, the Boonton Main Street Classic Car Show boasts a line of classic and vintage cars on Main Street.  

Visitors can marvel at the beauty of the well-maintained and rare classic cars. You will find models of unique and rare cars that include elegant vintage models as well as classic muscle cars. All car stans can enjoy the sights of heritage cars while munching on delicious food from local vendors.  

However, this is not an event exclusive to car enthusiasts. This is a great, family-friendly event that everyone equally enjoys. The charm of Boonton Main Street itself is an experience. Hence, whether you are a car stan or someone looking to enjoy a great summer day, take a stroll down the Main Street for an immersive experience.  

Netcong Day 

Date: Early September  
Location: Downtown Netcong  

Taking place early September, the Netcong Day is a vibrant fair in downtown Netcong. This is a community centric event that features live music, local vendors, and many family-friendly activities. You will find many stalls or booths offering different kinds of things like unique products, food, handicrafts, and others.  

While you’re at the fair, you will find many interactive activities to enjoy with your friends and family. Parents can take their children to the special kids zone where they’ll find games and different fun activities.  

Moreover, while you are exploring the different booths, the live music and entertainment is sure to add to the overall vibe. Netcong Day further includes educational programs and demonstration conducted by local businesses. Hence, all in all Netcong Day is a great event to celebrate community and support local businesses.  

Roxbury Food Truck & Music Festival 

Date: Early August  
Location: Horseshoe Lake, Roxbury  

Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Horseshoe Lake, the Roxbury Food Truck & Music Festival is a lively event mixed with the magic of live music and food. The festival is held in August and it provides a perfect setting to try a diverse selection of food.  

In this event you will find food vendors selling a diverse cuisine. From exotic street food, to gourmet meals, and yummy desserts, visitors will find something for everyone’s taste. If you have come with children and need them to stay distracted, this is a perfect place.  

Here, you will find children-friendly activities. While your children are busy in the kid’s area, you can relax against the picturesque view of the Horseshoe Lake.  

Moreover, a day at Roxbury Food Truck & Music Festival is perfect when you can simply relax and vibe to the beats of live music.  

Madison Farmers’ Market 

Date: Every Thursday, June to October  
Location: Central Avenue, Madison  

Held every Thursday from June to October, the Madison Farmers’ Market is a popular weekly event. The farmer’s market offers local goods, live music, and fresh produce. The farmer’s market is held on Central Avenue.  

The market provides the perfect opportunity to visitors to support local businesses and artisans. Moreover, while you here, you will be amazed with the craftsmanship of local vendors. The market provides uplifting music that adds to the entire shopping experience.  

Visitors will also be able to meet and greet locals and other tourists, making the Madison Farmers’ Market a perfect place for fostering connections.  

Hence, whether you are looking for handmade gifts, flowers, or something for your next meal, the Madison Farmers’ Market is the perfect spot to visit.  

Wharton Canal Day Festival 

Date: Early August  
Location: Hugh Force Canal Park, Wharton  

Amongst one of the most unique summer events taking place in Morris County, the Wharton Canal Day Festival commemorates the heritage of Morris Canal.  

Held in early August, the Wharton Canal Day Festival attracts visitors from all over the country to engage in many attractions and activities. Locals and visitors can enjoy the thrilling experience of boat riding on the canal.  

You will feel the fresh air and tranquil waters while you rewind and feel relaxed. Additionally, the festival also offers historical exhibits that show the rich history of the canal.  

If you are not a history buff, fear not, there are other engaging activities to participate in. While you learn the history and significance of the Wharton Canal, you will enjoy the sound of live performances.  

Wrapping Up 

From food and music to crafts and history, Morris County summer events and festivals have something for everyone. These events showcase the best of summer in Morris County and things to do while you are in the vicinity.  

Moreover, these events offer a great opportunity to build relationships and support local businesses.  

You can shop, vibe to the live music, or engage in fin activities with your friends and family. Hence, whether you are a tourist or a local, Morris County offers the best festivities to brighten your summer.  





Dover Man Charged with DUI After Rear-End Collision in Parsippany

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

PARSIPPANY — On June 23, at 12:25 a.m., Parsippany Police Seargent Ferreira, Patrolman Ross, Patrolman Nicos, Patrolman Piccinini, Patrolman Santangelo, and Patrolman Harvey responded to the area of Route 46 East and New Road for a two-car motor vehicle crash.

The two vehicles involved in the crash were a Chevy Malibu and a Chrysler Pacifica. Patrolman Piccininni spoke with the driver of the Chrysler Pacifica, Mr. Peter Lee, 50, Verona, who stated he observed the Chevy Malibu swerving between the lanes on Route 46 East, prompting Mr. Lee to proceed past the vehicle. Mr. Lee stopped at the red light located at the intersection of Route 46 and New Road, where the Chevy Malibu then struck the rear end of his vehicle.

Patrolman Piccininni then contacted the Chevy Malibu occupants. The driver, Elmer Delacruz-Cruz, 39, Dover, provided Patrolman Piccininni with his license, registration, and insurance card. Patrolman Piccininni observed Mr. Delacruz-Cruz’s eyes to be red, glassy, and bloodshot. Additionally, the officer detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from Mr. Delacruz-Cruz. Patrolman Piccininni and Patrolman Ross instructed Mr. Delacruz-Cruz to turn off and exit his vehicle, to which he complied.

Patrolman Harvey asked Mr. Delacruz-Cruz if he had consumed any alcoholic beverages, and he said he had consumed two drinks earlier in the evening.

The officers performed field sobriety tests, which Mr. Delacruz-Cruz failed. He was then transported to Parsippany Police Headquarters, where two adequate breath samples, the Alcotest, indicated that his BAC was 0.15%. The results were compared with the New Jersey State Police Alcotest Calculator, which revealed the results were within acceptable tolerance.

The following summons to Mr. Delacruz-Cruz:

•Operating Under the influence of drugs or alcohol (39:4-50)
•Reckless Driving (39:4-96)
•Careless Driving (39:4-97)
•Following to close (39:4-89)

Mr. Delacruz-Cruz was released to a friend who signed the Potential Liability Form (John’s Law). Mr. Delacruz-Cruz has a court date of August 15.

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.





Adam Cruz Hired as Dover’s Town Administrator

By
Frank Cahill
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Adam E. Cruz and Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, at a press conference.(Courtesy City of Trenton)

DOVER — Adam E. Cruz was hired on June 26 as Dover’s new town administrator. He will earn $220,000 annually, reportedly $20,000 more than his salary in Trenton and $20,000 less than Dover’s former town administrator, BettyLou DeCroce.

Trenton’s Mayor Reed Gusciora announced that Cruz had given a 30-day notice and that the city had initiated the search process for his replacement.

During Adam’s tenure, Trenton has achieved numerous milestones. Under his leadership, they have balanced the budget and maintained zero municipal tax increases over the last three years. Cruz invested significantly in public safety, Trenton Water Works, and the Department of Recreation. Additionally, Gusciora highlighted that Cruz has enhanced the city’s parks and repaved a record number of streets, significantly improving Trenton’s infrastructure. While Adam’s departure is undoubtedly a loss for Trenton, he leaves behind an administrative foundation that has put the city in a stronger, more resilient position.

Adam E. Cruz

Mayor James Dodd, now in the first six months of his term, has made several key hires, which is typical for a new administration. However, political appointments often come with challenges.

The former administrator, BettyLou DeCroce, a former Republican assemblywoman in LD-26, threatens to sue Dover for $15 Million, alleging her dismissal was improper.

DeCroce was hired as interim town administrator in October 2022 during Mayor Carolyn Blackman’s administration and was made permanent in January 2023. She succeeded the previous administrator, former state Senator John Bennett. DeCroce was terminated on March 28.

Council members (then Aldermen) stated that Blackman wanted to terminate DeCroce at the tail end of her term.

Dodd criticized the Blackman administration for its incompetence but kept DeCroce as administrator upon taking office in January. However, issues soon arose.

A tort claim filed on DeCroce’s behalf links the conflict to her hesitation to place the police chief on administrative leave following the chief’s conduct at a February council meeting.

The claim details interactions between DeCroce and Dodd, who wanted the chief on leave. It culminated on March 28 when DeCroce was informed of her termination.

The claim also mentions that the mayor and council made “defamatory statements” about DeCroce’s “experience, job performance, and character.”

Dodd has strongly refuted the allegations.

“The tort claims notice from the former administrator is entirely baseless and contains false allegations against the town and me. The tort claims notice is nothing less than an attempted money grab by a public official who presided over herself obtaining an unearned $60,000 raise to bring her salary over $240,000 per year, making her one of the highest-paid administrators of any town this size throughout the State of New Jersey for a part-time position, which is how she and the prior administration classified her title in the state pension system.” (Click here to read the entire article).





Roger Williams University Announces Spring 2024 Dean’s List

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Roger Williams University is a private university in Bristol, Rhode Island.

MORRIS COUNTY — Select students have been named to the Spring 2024 Dean’s List at Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List that semester. The following students are residents of your coverage area:

Abby Grove of Mountain Lakes

John Jannicelli of Florham Park

Trevor Smith of Florham Park

At Roger Williams University, students are prepared to be thinkers and doers ready to solve challenging problems with innovative solutions.

RWU offers 50 majors and robust offerings of graduate and professional programs across eight schools of study, including Rhode Island’s only law school, with campuses on the coast of Bristol and in the heart of Providence, R.I. With small classrooms and a focus on undergraduate and graduate research and community engagement, a Roger Williams education blends the strength of liberal arts and professional studies, providing all students with the depth and breadth of interdisciplinary thinking and well-rounded knowledge necessary to succeed in our interconnected, global world.

RWU is committed to strengthening society through engaged scholarship so that students graduate with the ability to think critically and apply the practical skills that today’s employers demand.





Matthew Logan Arrested in Fairfield on Multiple Burglary Charges

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Fairfield police have charged a Morris County man with burglary following a theft from a vehicle on Daniel Road East.

Matthew Logan, 29, of Rockaway, was charged with burglary and other offenses on Tuesday, July 2. At approximately 9:35 p.m., officers responded to reports of a motor vehicle burglary at a business on Daniel Road East.

The caller reported seeing the incident on security cameras about 30 minutes earlier and described the suspect to Fairfield officers. Shortly after, Officer Andrew VanderWal spotted a man matching the suspect’s description in the parking lot of the PNC Bank on Little Falls Road. When Officer VanderWal attempted to speak with him, the suspect fled, ignoring commands to stop. He was apprehended a short time later with assistance from other officers.

Logan was taken to police headquarters, where he was found in possession of a window punch. He was subsequently charged with burglary, possessing burglar’s tools, and resisting arrest. He was transported to the Essex County Jail pending an initial court appearance.

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.





Pancho Villa Rodeo Contributes $10,000 to Dover’s Cultural Extravaganza

By
Frank Cahill
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0

DOVER — The Town of Dover announces that Pancho Villa Rodeo, the inaugural lead sponsor, has generously donated $10,000 for the Cultural Extravaganza Festival on September 28th. Thanks to the support of all our local sponsors, the Dover Recreation Department can host this event free of charge to residents.

The Cultural Extravaganza Festival on Saturday, September 28th, is a community event hosted by the Town of Dover, designed to celebrate and showcase the area’s diverse cultural heritage. The event is from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

This festival aims to bring together residents and visitors for a day of festivities, which include:

  1. Live Performances: Music, dance, and theatrical performances representing various cultures.
  2. Food Stalls: A variety of cuisines from different cultural backgrounds.
  3. Arts and Crafts: Exhibits and workshops featuring traditional and contemporary arts and crafts.
  4. Family Activities: Games, face painting, and other activities for children and families.
  5. Cultural Exhibits: Displays and information booths about different cultures and traditions.

Everyone is invited to join and help make this festival a grand success!





Rockaway Woman Charged with DUI After Denville Crash

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — A Rockaway woman is facing charges, including driving while intoxicated, following a motor vehicle crash in Denville Township early Tuesday morning, July 2.

According to police, at approximately 3:32 a.m., officers investigated a motor vehicle crash on Franklin Road near Franklin Avenue.

During the investigation, police determined that the driver, identified as Dana M. Ojedis-Maclo of Rockaway, was allegedly driving while intoxicated.

Ojedis-Macio was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving, and careless driving. She was later released pending a court appearance, police said.

Editors Note: The rules of the court 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.





Morris County Firm Plosia Cohen Hires Experienced Administrative, General Practice, and Litigation Attorney, Donald S. Dinsmore, Esq.

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Donald S. Dinsmore, Esq.

MORRIS COUNTY — On July 1, 2024, Donald S. Dinsmore, formerly of Casha Casha & Evans, LLC, began working at Morris Plains/Parsippany-based Plosia Cohen LLC.

Dinsmore complements Plosia Cohen’s municipal, school law, and litigation practice and adds to it his considerable experience and expertise in these and related areas. Don has extensive experience assisting businesses to manage their relationships with the New Jersey State and local government. Don served the State of New Jersey for over ten years, first as legal counsel to the New Jersey State Legislature, Chief of Staff to a State Assemblymember, and later as senior staff of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. In addition to legally representing governments and businesses, Don adds to Plosia Cohen his experience handling trust and estates, family law, guardianships, and real estate matters. Don also solidifies the firm’s status as a leader in administrative law and brings with him relationships with government entities and Joint Insurance Funds (“JIF”), thereby supplementing the firm’s already established practices in these areas.





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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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