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Madison Area AAUW to Host Book Sale Benefitting Women’s Education Programs

By
Frank Cahill
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MADISON — Delight in a curated selection of over 2,000 gently-used books on Saturday, September 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event, proudly presented by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Madison Area branch, will take place at the F.M. Kirby Children’s Center on 54 East Street, Madison. Don’t miss out on these fantastic finds at irresistible prices!

The event’s proceeds are channeled towards significant educational initiatives for women and young girls. This includes the Mature Woman’s Grant awards and the groundbreaking AAUW New Jersey Tech Trek STEM camp tailored for middle school girls. Over the previous two years, nine noteworthy grants have been allocated to local women pursuing further education, and several middle school girls have been sponsored to attend the Tech Trek camp.

For those interested in supporting, the Madison Area YMCA lobby is accepting book donations from September 11 to 14. The branch emphasizes the importance of donating only saleable books. Residents with donations exceeding three boxes should reach out to [email protected] to arrange an alternate drop-off in Madison. Please note, they can’t accept textbooks, encyclopedias, or any audio or video materials.

With over a century of commitment, the AAUW has been a beacon of change for women. The Madison branch fervently continues this mission, offering educational grants, STEM exposure for teen girls, engaging monthly programs, and special interest groups such as book clubs, mahjongg games, and more. Engage with this community to find purpose, camaraderie, and shared interests.

For membership inquiries or further information, visit madisonareaaauw.org or directly contact them at [email protected].

Morris County Schools to Receive $23 Million in State Funding for Critical Upgrades

By
Frank Cahill
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Dover High School. File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY – A significant financial windfall is headed towards Morris County schools, thanks to a new state-wide initiative. The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) and the New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) have approved nearly $450 million in construction funding, of which Morris County schools are slated to receive approximately $23 million.

Governor Phil Murphy stated that the funding would invest in “hundreds of school projects” across New Jersey. The funds are designed to address various high-priority needs, such as HVAC systems, leaky roofs, and inefficient boilers. The NJDOE will administer the grants, determined by each school’s specific needs.

Morris County’s allocation comes primarily from the State’s Debt Defeasance and Prevention Fund. This strategy is set to save taxpayers approximately $350 million that would otherwise have been incurred through 30-year bonds at current interest rates.

Local districts including Dover Town, Florham Park, and Morris School District are among the beneficiaries. The grants represent at least 40% of eligible costs for these projects, addressing health and safety issues and other critical requirements.

“This funding is part of a state and local partnership that will invest in hundreds of school projects while saving a significant amount of taxpayer dollars,” said Governor Phil Murphy.

Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of Education, noted, “This funding will benefit countless students in hundreds of schools throughout New Jersey.”

Senate President Nicholas Scutari highlighted “Where we invest taxpayer money reflects our priorities and we will always put our kids first.”

The overall cost of these projects in Morris County exceeds $1 billion, including local contributions. This grant initiative not only improves local schools but also provides local tax relief.

The approved funds are a significant stride towards meeting the critical infrastructure needs of Morris County schools. It is a win-win situation that will benefit students, taxpayers, and educators alike by upgrading facilities and providing a better learning environment.

Liz Cheney to Headline Drew Forum at MPAC: A Deep Dive into Policy, Leadership, and Bipartisanship

By
Frank Cahill
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U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney

MORRIS COUNTY — Liz Cheney is set to headline the inaugural Drew Forum event of the season at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 23, hosted at Morristown’s Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC).

Drew University’s recent president, Hilary L. Link, will guide the discussion.

Former U.S. Representative from Wyoming, Liz Cheney, is slated to delve deep into policy discussions, the essence of principled leadership, and prospects for bipartisanship.

In 2022, Cheney, in the company of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, was honored with the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library’s Profile in Courage Award. Cheney’s unwavering stand for democracy also earned her special recognition.

Together with her father, the former Vice President Dick Cheney, she penned “Exceptional: Why the World Needs a Powerful America.” Additionally, this December she’s set to unveil her new book, “Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning.”

This gathering is under the patronage of the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation.

For ticket information and more details, head to drew.edu/lizcheney. Tickets can be procured by phoning the MPAC box office at (973) 539-8008 or directly at 100 South Street, Morristown.

 

Dozens Displaced in Dover House Fire Disaster

By
Frank Cahill
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The fire caused significant damage to the building's back area before spreading its devastation to an adjacent residence

DOVER — On Saturday, September 16, numerous individuals found themselves displaced as a fire erupted within a multi-family residence situated on 71, 73 and 75 West Blackwell Street.

According to investigators, the fire inflicted severe damage to the rear section of the building before extending its destructive path to a neighboring home.

Additionally, three businesses occupying the building’s ground floor suffered from both smoke and water damage.

the Red Cross swiftly mobilized to provide assistance to approximately 70 affected individuals who were left in dire need of support

In response to the crisis, the Red Cross swiftly mobilized to provide assistance to approximately 75 affected individuals who were left in dire need of support.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating incident, authorities are diligently working to uncover the cause of the fire, launching an investigation into the circumstances that led to this unfortunate event.

Authorities are diligently working to uncover the cause of the fire.

Hanover Time Capsule Unveiling Disappoints as Memories Turn to Mush

By
Frank Cahill
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HANOVER — The anticipated unveiling of the time capsule, which had been buried in Hanover Township on September 11, 1993, was set to coincide with Hanover Township Day Saturday, September 9.

Excitement filled the air as people eagerly anticipated the memories held within from thirty years ago.

Jim Coiley, Chairperson of the Recreation Commission, emphasized the need to avoid a situation reminiscent of Geraldo Rivera’s infamous 1986 televised event when he opened Al Capone’s vault, only to find it empty. “We wanted to ensure that there was no ‘Geraldo Rivera opening the empty Al Capone vault’ incident,” Coiley explained.

To guarantee everything was in proper condition, the Department of Public Works unearthed the time capsule prior to Hanover Township Day.

Unfortunately, upon retrieval, it became evident that the capsule had suffered noticeable damage. Consequently, the decision was made to have the Department of Public Works open it.

Regrettably, much to everyone’s dismay, a significant portion of the capsule’s contents had deteriorated into mush due to water damage and mold.

Among the few recognizable items were an unidentified tee shirt, a cap, and what remained of a yearbook.

Department of Labor Intervention Results in Boston Market Employees Receiving $630,000 in Back Wages

By
Frank Cahill
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The Boston Market situated at 332 Route 10, East Hanover, has been mandated to cease operations. This closure comes as a result of workers' rights infringements, with this specific establishment being one of the 27 Boston Market outlets across New Jersey facing the same directive

MORRIS COUNTY— The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has recovered over $630,000 in back wages for 314 Boston Market employees. The issue surfaced when Cathy Grimes, a manager in East Hanover, and her team went unpaid for two months. Despite this, many employees continued to work, hoping for state intervention. After Grimes contacted the NJDOL, more of unpaid employees started to speak up.

The Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at NJDOL led an investigation. This resulted in stop-work orders and the closure of 27 Boston Market locations. The investigation began after a complaint from a Hamilton Township-based employee in November. This triggered more complaints about unpaid wages at other locations.

The Department of Labor says it found multiple violations of workers’ rights, including more than $600,000 in back wages

The investigation led to the payment of back wages, allowing the Boston Market locations to reopen. Grimes thanked the NJDOL, stating that their involvement led to the owner paying the wages, which totalled around $15,000.

Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo pointed out that this case shows the importance of the department’s power to issue stop-work orders. He warned that non-payment of workers could lead to a shutdown of operations.

The findings were sent to the parent company, Boston Chicken of NJ, LLC, and to CEO Jignesh Pandya. The department may levy additional damages and fees. As a result, the NJDOL encourages workers to know their rights and directs them to MyWorkRights.nj.gov for more information.

At the time of publishing this article the East Hanover Boston Market remains closed, although the stop work orders have been removed from the widows.

Dover Candidate Forums Set for September 20

By
Frank Cahill
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Former Mayor James Dodd Addresses Packed Supporters at One11 Bar

DOVER — The League of Women Voters Morristown Area and the NAACP Morristown Branch, in collaboration with the Daily Record, are set to co-host in-person candidate forums for the Dover mayor’s office and four aldermen seats.

This event will take place on Wednesday, September 20, at 6:00 p.m. at the Dover Moose Lodge, 21 Sammis Avenue.

The purpose of the forum is to hear candidates’ views, not the opinions of individual voters.

The aim, as articulated by representatives of the League of Women Voters, is to foster informed voting within a nonpartisan context.

Former Mayor James Dodd, who secured more than 50% of the vote in the June Democratic primary against Edward Correa and the incumbent Mayor Carolyn Blackman, is slated to participate in a debate with independent candidate Dennis Touhey. It’s noteworthy that there is no Republican candidate on the Dover ballot, given the town’s strong Democratic leanings.

The Board of Aldermen forum will feature both Democratic and Republican candidates in all four wards. Ward 1 will see a contest between Republican Gaile Rodriguez and Democrat Claudia Toro. In Ward 2, Republican Wendy Huron Carmona will face off against Democrat Sergio Rodriguez. Ward 3 presents a race between incumbent Democrat Michael J. Scarneo and Republican William Shuler, Jr. Lastly, in Ward 4, GOP candidate William Inglis will compete with incumbent Democrat Arturo Santana.

Members of the public have the opportunity to submit questions in advance, up until 6:00 p.m. on Monday, September 18 by clicking here.

The forum will be livestreamed on the LWV Morristown Area YouTube channel, by clicking here.

Translation will not be during live event, but can be seen on YouTube after the event.

Election Day is scheduled for Tuesday, November 7, with the voter registration deadline for this year set for October 17. Click here to register to vote.

Barranco Advocates for Parents at BOE Session, Questions School Code Modifications

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — During the public comment period of the New Jersey State Board of Education’s monthly meeting Wednesday afternoon, Assemblyman Christian Barranco espoused the importance of parental rights as the board attempts to backpedal recent changes to the equity code.“The raising and educating of our children does not take a village, it takes parents. It always has taken parents, and it always will,” Barranco (R-Morris) said.

The public testimony portion of the meeting at 2:00 p.m. was not broadcast like the 10:00 a.m. session, but lawmakers and the public spoke on the educational topic of their choice on record. Barranco spoke on the board’s amendments to Chapter 7, rules that school districts must follow to ensure equal access to educational activities and services.

“Many of us who take objection to the changes that this board creates within public education know the cause of all this. This is quite simply the long, arrogant arm of a certain faction of academia that has for generations insisted on trying to convince all of us that human society in its present form is all wrong and that we need to conform to a society that they’ve designed for us,” Barranco said.

In August, the board narrowly adopted changes to its equity code that eliminated gender-specific language and mandated schools solely recognize a student’s gender identity when separating sex education classes. In light of the backlash the board has received since, Andrew Mulvihill, the board’s vice president, noted Wednesday they have contacted the Attorney General’s Office to discuss possibly reexamining the changes it made to the code.

“Thankfully, for us, there is another arm of academia that does have the courage to oppose the actions of this board, Barranco said of the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons’ stance against gender-affirming care for minors, because of the lack of informed consent, and the unknown and irreversible consequences.”

“I’ll challenge this board and the administration to produce a paragraph in support of gender fluidity, in support of the elimination of the words male and female, in support of the expansion of sex education to include pornography in our schools and in support of keeping secrets from parents,” Barranco said. “Take that paragraph and put it on the ballot in November in the form of a referendum and let the voters of New Jersey tell you how they feel about what you’re doing.”

New Detective and Assistant Prosecutor Join Morris County Prosecutor’s Office

By
Frank Cahill
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Prosecutor Robert Carroll, AP Alyssa DiSturco, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally confirmed the hiring of Christopher M. Cannon as Detective, Alyssa J. DiSturco as Assistant Prosecutor, and Erin Wisloff as Legal Assistant for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

A swearing-in ceremony was held on September 11, 2023. Assistant Prosecutor DiSturco will be assigned to the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit within the Tactical Division. Assistant Prosecutor DiSturco previously served in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office as an Assistant Prosecutor from 2016 through 2018, where she was assigned to the Special Operations Division, Special Enforcement Unit, and General Investigations Unit.

She was later hired by the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office as an Assistant Prosecutor for the Special Victims Unit and ultimately promoted to the supervisory Senior Assistant Prosecutor position. Prior to joining the MCPO, AP DiSturco was an Associate with a private law firm in Kearny, a Law Clerk for the Honorable Joseph V. Isabella, J.S.C., a Judicial Intern for the Honorable Susan J. Steele, P.J.Cr., and a Legal Intern for the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office. Assistant Prosecutor DiSturco earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers College and a Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law. Detective Cannon will be assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts & Administration Division.

Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Det. Christopher Cannon, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally

Detective Cannon previously served as a Police Officer with the Warren Township Police Department since 2016. Prior to joining Warren Township, he served as a Deputy Sheriff for the Essex County Sheriff’s Office from 2014 through 2015. Detective Cannon also worked as a Security Officer for a private security company in Cedar Knolls.

Detective Cannon served in the United States Air Force Reserve as a Senior Airman and a Specialist with the United States Army Reserve. He has earned the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, AF Basic Training Ribbon, Army Basic Training Ribbon, and an Armed Forces Reserves Medal with 1 “M” device for mobilization support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He also earned professional certifications and commendations.

He earned credit hours at the Community College of the Air Force, Joint Services Training, and the Essex County College Police Academy. Legal Assistant Wisloff will be assigned to the Appellate Unit within the Courts & Administration Division. Wisloff initially served as a Supervising Assistant Prosecutor with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office from 2007 through 2018 upon her retirement, supervising the Appellate Unit and Trial Team. Prior to being a Supervising Assistant Prosecutor, she was assigned to the Grand Jury Unit, Fraud Unit, and Trial Team from 1997-2007.

Prior to joining the MCPO, Wisloff was an Assistant Prosecutor for the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and Judicial Law Clerk for the Honorable Donald G. Collester, J.S.C. She earned her juris doctorate from Widener University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Carolina. Prosecutor Carroll said, “I welcome back AP DiSturco and Legal Assistant Wisloff, as their expertise will be an asset to our legal team. I also welcome Detective Cannon. We are pleased to have such a decorated officer joining our investigative staff.”

Support CCM Students at the Annual Golf Classic on October 16

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Brooklake Country Club

MORRIS COUNTY — Join the County College of Morris (CCM) Foundation and champion students’ aspirations for a prosperous future. This year’s CCM Foundation Golf Classic is scheduled for Monday, October 16, at Florham Park’s Brooklake Country Club.

Enjoy a BBQ lunch, golfing all day, a cocktail reception with an open bar, and a sumptuous buffet dinner. Golfing is priced at $375 per person.

If you’re only attending the reception, dinner, and program, it’s $150. Don’t miss out on raffle prizes available for purchase, and every golfer will be gifted a special token of appreciation. The event’s proceeds will bolster the college’s scholarship initiatives, particularly emphasizing support for student-athletes and athletic programs.

Activities kick off with an 11:00 a.m. registration, followed by lunch, and golfing commences at 12:30 p.m. Evening celebrations, inclusive of the cocktail reception and award ceremony, start at 5:00 p.m.

Corporate teams, sponsors, and individual players are eagerly invited. To learn more or register, dial (973) 328-5060 or click here.

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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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