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Morris Habitat for Humanity Receives $30K grant from Wells Fargo

By
Frank Cahill
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A team from Wells Fargo presented Morris Habitat with a check for $30,000 at the company's volunteer Build Day event. Also pictured are Randolph Mayor Lou Nisivoccia (left) and Morris Habitat Interin CEO, Liz DeCoursey (right).

MORRIS COUNTY — The Wells Fargo Foundation has awarded a $30,000 grant to Morris Habitat for Humanity (Morris Habitat) to help build homes in Randolph. Morris Habitat is one of more than 230 Habitat for Humanity affiliates awarded grant funding through the 2023 Wells Fargo Builds program to help make homes more affordable and accessible for everyone nationwide.

“We are grateful for our long-standing partnership with Wells Fargo,” said Liz DeCoursey, Morris Habitat for Humanity interim CEO.  “Their philanthropic interests in our mission to build homes, and communities and hope to make change happen and improve lives for everyone.  We also look forward to future projects and making an impact on families whenever we can work together.”
The grant announcement was made at the site of Morris Habitat’s largest project to date, where, at the end of construction, 25 low- to moderate-income families will move into their new homes. About 75% of the families are led by single mothers. Randolph Township Mayor Lou Nisivoccia also spoke at the brief press event about the need of affordable housing options for local residents.
“As the Bank of Doing, we’re committed to opening pathways to affordable homeownership for more individuals so they can pass that legacy on and grow generational wealth – especially here in the Garden State,” said Tomas Porturas, Vice President of Community Impact, Wells Fargo. “We’re proud to join Morris Habitat for Humanity once again to create more affordable homes in Northern New Jersey and help welcome home-deserving families.”
Today nearly 17 million U.S. households pay half or more of their income on a place to live. At least one in six New Jersey households spend over half of their income on housing and the number of Northern New Jersey families who are struggling to afford rent is on the rise.
The funding announcement to Habitat Morris coincided with a volunteer day as part of Wells Fargo’s “Welcome Home” initiative. Thousands of Wells Fargo employees across the country are working with local charities to make an impact in the company foundation’s funding priority, housing affordability. Throughout the month of September, Wells Fargo employees will participate in volunteer events like this one in Upper Ringwood.
This grant is part of a $7.5 million donation to Habitat for Humanity International through the Wells Fargo Builds program to build and repair more than 360 homes nationwide. For three decades, Habitat for Humanity and Wells Fargo have worked together to increase access to affordable homes and homeownership.
Morris Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization committed to building homes, communities, and hope. The organization serves Morris, Middlesex, and portions of Somerset and Union counties. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Morris Habitat builds affordable new homes and provides home repair services to income-eligible families. Since 1985, Morris Habitat has served nearly 1,000 families by building 188 local homes, preserving 431 homes for low-income and senior residents, and helping 373 families with housing solutions worldwide. The organization has engaged more than 150,000 volunteers for various programs. Morris Habitat also operates a successful ReStore home improvement outlet which has kept 17,588 tons of reusable materials out of landfills and funded 36 homes. For more information, visit MorrisHabitat.org or call 973-891-1934.

Mountain Lakes Calls for Nominations: 2023 Citizen of the Year and Janice D. Hunts Award

By
Frank Cahill
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MOUNTAIN LAKES — Nominations are now being accepted for the Mountain Lakes Citizen of the Year Award and the Janice D. Hunts Lifelong Service Award.

The Citizen of the Year Award honors a Mountain Lakes resident who has shown themselves to be an asset to the Borough of Mountain Lakes for their volunteer efforts during the current calendar year.

The Janice D. Hunts Lifelong Service Award honors a Mountain Lakes resident who has shown themselves to be an asset to the Borough of Mountain Lakes for their volunteer efforts over the course of ten or more years.

Nominations are due by Friday, October 20. Please complete the Citizen of the Year Application Form or the Janice D. Hunts Application Form, Award recipients will be honored at the Borough’s Volunteer Recognition Event in December.

Boonton Township Man Arrested Following Assault on Motorist and Parsippany Crossing Guard

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Police Chief Richard Pantina confirmed the arrest of John R. Connelly, 36, of Boonton Township, in connection with an assault on a motorist and a Parsippany Police Department Crossing Guard.

On Thursday, September 14 at 3:10 p.m. the Parsippany Police Department’s Communication Center received multiple 911 phone calls reporting a motor vehicle crash involving a pickup truck and a motorcycle at the intersection of Route 202 and Brooklawn Drive.

When officers arrived on scene, they were advised that the 58-year-old motorcycle driver was stopped on Route 202 so the on-duty Parsippany Police Department Crossing Guard could safely cross the children.

The defendant, John Connelly, allegedly stopped his pickup truck behind the motorcycle driver and got out of his vehicle.

At this time, it was reported that he began to physically assault the motorcycle driver. According to reports, the 76-year-old Crossing Guard attempted to intervene and was allegedly shoved to the ground by the defendant.

The defendant then continued to assault the motorcycle driver until other motorists intervened. The defendant allegedly then fled the scene in his truck.

As a result of the investigation, the Morris Plains Police Department was able to locate and stop the accused a short time later. He was placed under arrest and charged on a summons complaint with Aggravated Assault, a crime of the third degree, and Simple Assault, a disorderly persons offense. He was released on his own recognizance.

If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department at (973) 263-4300.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Parsippany Resident Arrested for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

By
Frank Cahill
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Hanover

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — An unexpected incident at the Walmart premises in Hanover Township led to an arrest on August 23. Hanover Township Police Officer Brandon Law was summoned to the rear of the Walmart store due to reports of a fire in the woods.

On reaching the location, Officer Law noticed Mr. Larry Southerland, 39, of Parsippany, in the process of extinguishing a flaming shopping cart.

After the fire was successfully put out, Officer Law proceeded to investigate the situation. This resulted in the discovery of drug paraphernalia in Mr. Southerland’s possession. Further checks also revealed an active warrant against him.

Consequently, Mr. Southerland was arrested and charged with possession of CDS (Controlled Dangerous Substance) paraphernalia. He has since been released and awaits his forthcoming court appearance.

The Hanover Township Police Department encourages the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities. Ensuring the safety and well-being of the community remains the department’s top priority.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Morris Plains Resident Arrested for DWI after Motorcycle Incident in Hanover Township

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

HANOVER — A routine response turned into an arrest for DWI when Hanover Township Police Officer Stephen Manney arrived at the scene of a reported accident at the intersection of Route 10 and North Jefferson Road on Sunday, August 20.

The officer was called in following reports of a motorcyclist who had apparently fallen off his bike. Upon reaching the location, Officer Manney found Mr. Jesse Smith, a 40-year-old resident of Morris Plains, standing beside his motorcycle.

While interacting with Mr. Smith, Officer Manney detected a strong odor of alcohol. After administering field sobriety tests, Mr. Smith was taken into custody and subsequently charged with DWI. In addition to the DWI charge, Smith was also issued motor vehicle summonses for both reckless and careless driving.

Mr. Smith has since been released and awaits his scheduled court appearance.

Hanover Township Police Department stresses the importance of responsible driving and reminds residents of the grave consequences that can arise from driving under the influence.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Join the Celebration: Whippany Fire Company Hosts Annual Open House

By
Frank Cahill
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Whippany Fire Department

HANOVER — The Whippany Fire Company members can’t wait to welcome you into their home away from home. Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 1, 2023, as they host their Annual Open House. This event also celebrates the beginning of Fire Prevention Month. They are located at 10 Troy Hills Road.

As their esteemed guest, you’ll be treated to an array of engaging activities. Ever wondered how professionals combat flames? You’ll witness captivating demonstrations showcasing the prowess of the team. Fancy a behind-the-scenes look at a firehouse? You can take a guided tour and uncover its secrets. And for the younger visitors, there’s a chance to climb aboard the fire trucks, feel the weight of the protective gear, and even slip into a firefighter’s boots!

But that’s not all. Throughout the day, they’ll be offering light refreshments to keep you energized. And if the idea of joining the valiant ranks of the Whippany Fire Department has ever crossed your mind, their dedicated membership team will be on hand, ready to entertain any queries you might harbor.

Oh, and keep an eye out for a special guest! Sparky, the friendly mascot, is eager to greet and interact with attendees. Hope to see you there, diving deep into the world of firefighting and perhaps even envisioning a future. Join and let’s make this day memorable together!

Newly Chartered Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover Makes Impact with School Supplies Donation

By
Frank Cahill
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Proudly displaying the donation are Washington Pro, Victoria Pinales, Maria Solines, James Dodd and Frank Cahill, Lt. Governor Kiwanis NJ Division.

DOVER — At their inaugural meeting, the newly formed Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover jump-started their community service with a school supplies drive. All donations were generously given to the “Excellence Family Success Center.”

Situated at 73 Bassett Highway, the Excellence Family Success Center focuses on addressing the healthcare requirements of New Jersey’s women, infants, and children. By orchestrating educational initiatives, outreach, and advocacy, the center plays a pivotal role in shaping the state’s healthcare landscape.

Chartered by Kiwanis International on August 31, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover began its journey with 15 pioneering members. Remarkably, within a short span, they’ve welcomed four more members to their fold. Part of a global network, Kiwanis is rooted in the belief of making a global difference through localized efforts – transforming communities and young lives one step at a time. The magic happens when members unite; achieving collectively what would be impossible individually.

The Greater Rockaway Kiwanis Club played a sponsoring role in the formation of the Dover counterpart. To dive deeper into the Dover chapter’s endeavors and vision, visit www.doverkiwanis.org.

Beryl Schaff Celebrates Half a Century of Dedication

By
Frank Cahill
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Committeeman John Ferramosca, Beryl Schaff  and Committeeman Ron Francioli

HANOVER — Hanover Township’s Beryl Schaff was Honored for 50 Years with the Whippanong Library Board and played a Key Role in its Founding with Kitchells and Myrose.

Visit Whippanong Library at 1000 Route 10, Whippany.

Unveiling the Stunning Exterior Design of Morris County Courthouse

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners tonight reviewed and decided to move forward with an updated exterior design proposal for a new courthouse slated for a county-owned parcel on Schuyler Place in Morristown.

The design was presented by AECOM, the architects contracted for the project, following a June 14, 2023 Commissioner work session meeting at which some Commissioners suggested changes to the existing design.  Roger Lichtman, Lisa Tsang and Francis Cooke of the Clifton-based AECOM presented the updated design proposal tonight after it was reviewed and cleared by a three-member Courthouse Committee of the Board of Commissioners.

“This final design is the result collaboration and input from all the stakeholders on this project. We value AECOM’s approach in working with the county to ensure we landed on an exterior design that is timeless in terms of function and aesthetics,” said Commissioner Stephen Shaw, Chairman of the Courthouse Committee.

Commissioners Deborah Smith and Douglas Cabana also serve on the Committee.

Among those who attended the meeting tonight were Sheriff James Gannon, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Superior Court Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz of the Morris/Sussex Court Vicinage, Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty and Morristown Business Administrator Jillian Barrick.

The design involves an approximately 119,000-square-foot project offering eight new courtrooms, a jury assembly room, meeting rooms, security areas and a secured, three-story glass entrance foyer.

The overall project, pared down from one originally presented prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, will meet the modern safety, security and space needs required to properly support the county’s criminal Superior Court operations. The new building will include eight floors constructed on a county parking lot next to the existing Morris County Administration & Records Building.

PROJECT BACKGROUND

Providing adequate court facilities and securing those facilities are the sole responsibility of each respective county in New Jersey. To assess those needs, the county commissioned a Space Needs and Facilities Assessment in 2017.

That assessment, completed in 2018, identified a significant shortfall in criminal, family and civil court facilities, and detailed the outdated conditions in the existing courthouse complex, which includes the historic courthouse along Washington Street that was originally constructed in 1827.

That building was augmented three times before 1900, according to Judge Minkowitz, noting other portions were added in the 1950s and 1970s. The complex, situated along Washington Street between Court Street and Western Avenue, will be preserved, but is not suitable to continue most court operations.

The County Commissioners, then known as Freeholders, held public hearings prior to their unanimous vote to adopt two capital ordinances in late 2018 to fund the design phases of a new courthouse along Schuyler Place. Balancing the needs of the court system with the financial concerns of county taxpayers has continued throughout the process and involved the county government administration, Commissions, members of the judiciary, and the Sheriff’s Office.

Morristown Man Charged After Deer Fatally Struck by Blow Dart

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Following an inquiry into a deer’s demise due to a dart, Morris Township authorities identified a Morristown man facing charges related to unlawful weapon possession, creating hazardous conditions, and weapon discharge, all in violation of a local ordinance.

Jalen O’Neal, 26, was charged last week and released pending a court hearing, as stated by Township Police Capt. James Perruso.

The incident was reported by a caller who discovered a deceased deer with an orange dart in it near Speedwell Avenue and Mill Street on the morning of August 22.

Perruso noted, “The investigation confirmed that the deer was indeed struck with a dart, and a second dart was found nearby. Further examination revealed that the ‘dart’ was a projectile from a ‘blow dart’ type weapon.”

Authorities encourage anyone with additional information to reach out to Detective Kevin Yarzab at (973 326-7433 or the Morris Township Police Detective Bureau at (973) 326-7480. Perruso emphasized the importance of residents remaining vigilant and promptly reporting any suspicious activities.

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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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