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ArcMorris Autumn Classic Golf Outing to Benefit People with Developmental Disabilities

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — ArcMorris is now accepting registration and sponsorships for the grand return in October of its golf outing fundraiser in support of people with developmental disabilities and their families.

Eagerly anticipated by area golf enthusiasts and supporters of the organization, the ArcMorris Autumn Classic is scheduled to take place on Monday, October 23, at Basking Ridge Country Club.

Funds raised will go toward supporting programs and initiatives of ArcMorris. The format will feature a four-person scramble with awards going to 1st and 2nd place teams. Contests will include Longest Drive (Men’s and Women’s), Longest Golf Ball Launch, Closest to the Pins, On the Green, and a Hole-in-One contest that will offer a chance to win a 2024 luxury SUV. A continental breakfast, boxed lunch, cocktail hour, and buffet dinner will be included for all registrants. Giveaways, raffles, and a silent auction will also be available.

“Our outing is intended to be a significant event in our community, bringing together individuals and businesses who share our passion for promoting inclusion and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Salvador Moran, CEO and executive director of ArcMorris. “Our aim is not only to attract sponsors and golfers but also to create an unforgettable experience that will entice participants to return year after year.” ArcMorris also is seeking an honorary sponsor to become the namesake of this special occasion.

For information on registration and sponsorships, click here.

ArcMorris is the largest provider of services for people affected by intellectual and related developmental disabilities and their families in Morris County. Incorporated in 1953, the not-for-profit agency serves people with intellectual disabilities and their families through residential and day programs for adults; therapeutic recreation for all ages; a summer camp; and support and respite for families. More information about the organization, including how to get involved, can be found at https://arcmorris.org.

Dr. Edina Renfro-Michel: A Legacy of Love, Learning, and Leadership

By
Frank Cahill
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BOONTON — Dr. Edina Renfro-Michel passed away on July 29, her 53rd birthday, ending her decade-long battle with metastatic breast cancer.

Edina was born in New Orleans, where she married Michael Michel. They built a life together in Louisiana, Mississippi, Kentucky, and finally New Jersey, where they raised their two children.

Edina’s professional career focused on counseling, educating, and working with children and families. She earned a B.A. and M.Ed from the University of New Orleans, and went on to receive her doctorate in Community Counseling from Mississippi State University. She then taught and counseled individuals, groups and families in Mississippi and New Orleans before coming north to Montclair State University in 2006.

She was an Associate Professor of Counseling at Montclair State University, an expert on attachment and clinical supervision, technology in counseling and clinical supervision, and technology in pedagogy. She developed a unique, impactful method of teaching counseling theories through the use of the Second Life 3D metaverse, popular in the early 2000’s. The program, known as the Theorists Project, enabled students to interact with artifacts and iconography of major counseling theorists in a direct, hands-on fashion which supplemented the traditional lecture discussion format. Students loved it. Starting in 2012, she partnered with NJIT on a National Science Foundation-funded program to understand and develop tools regarding flexible learning models for students, particularly in the on-line environment. In 2016, she co-edited Using Technology to Enhance Counselor Supervision: A Practical Handbook. She is remembered for always being quick to support and help her students and colleagues.

In addition to her academic career, Edina gave back to her community in many ways. She served as a council member for the Town of Boonton, representing the second ward. She was elected to three terms on the town council, stepping down in April 2023 to focus on her health. As a champion and advocate for the town that became her home, she was involved in planning and obtaining grants for numerous projects including the creation of the Boonton Ironworks Historic District, funding new playground equipment for Kanouse Street Park and rehabilitating the Arch Bridge in Grace Lord Park. She also spearheaded the rebuilding of Pepe Park. Edina was a proud ally and supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, including her daughter. She was instrumental in the founding of Boonton Rainbow Pride, and was the keynote speaker at their first event in 2021. Edina was never one to let politics get in the way of what she believed was right for the people of Boonton. She served with dignity and compassion and led with grace and empathy. Additionally, Edina was the North Star, comforter and endless source of information for many other women who developed breast cancer, and volunteered for many organizations including her children’s schools and scouting. Edina never forgot her New Orleans roots, sharing her Mardi Gras, New Year’s Day, and other traditions with family and friends.

Edina is survived by her loving husband, Michael Michel and their two children, Faith and Ian. She was predeceased by her mother Jeanette Bitsch Renfro, and is also survived by her father Newton Renfro, Jr. (Suzanne), sister Kim Renfro Ledoux (Christopher), nephews Cody and Justin Ledoux, and a host of good friends at Montclair State, in Boonton, and throughout the Southeast.

A celebration of Edina’s life will be held on Sunday August 13 at 3 pm at the Boonton United Methodist Church, followed immediately by a joyful gathering at the Boonton Elks Club. In keeping with Edina’s exuberant approach to life, she requested that attendees wear bright celebratory colors. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the American Cancer Society or 11th Hour Rescue.

To plant trees in memory, please visit theSympathy Store.

Boonton Resident Charged with DWI After Striking Utility Pole in Denville

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

MORRIS COUNTY — A Boonton man has been charged with DWI, among other offenses, after allegedly hitting a utility pole Thursday night in Denville Township.

On August 3, at around 9:00 p.m., police responded to a report of a single-vehicle motor vehicle crash on Diamond Spring Road.

Upon arrival, it was discovered that the involved vehicle had left the roadway and struck a utility pole, causing the utility pole and wires to fall into and block the roadway.

During the subsequent police investigation, it was determined that the driver, who was identified as Kevin Killingback, 36, Boonton, was under the influence of alcohol.

Killingback was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, reckless driving, careless driving, refusal to submit to chemical testing, and refusing to consent to provide samples of his breath. He was then released pending a court appearance.

Diamond Spring Road was closed in both directions between Whaleback Waddy and Entrance Way from the time of the crash until approximately 6:00 p.m. on August 4 as work crews repaired the damage. Some residents in the area may have experienced intermittent power outages.

Morris County Opens Trustee Positions for County College; Resumes Due September 1

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County residents interested in serving on the County College of Morris (CCM) Board of Trustees are invited to send their resumes to a special trustee search committee of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners.

The search committee must receive resumes by September 1, 2023. The committee will review all of the applications and then submit recommendations to the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, who will make the appointments.

Morris County is seeking to fill three board seats for four-year terms, which terms shall begin on November 1, 2023.

The two sitting trustees must reapply by the September 1 deadline if they wish to be considered for reappointment.

To qualify for consideration by the search committee, a candidate must be a resident of Morris County for at least four years and may not hold a current elected office in Morris County or be an employee of Morris County government or CCM.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate independent judgment, distinction in their profession, knowledge of higher education, involvement in their community, and a firm commitment to serving the college. A candidate must be willing to commit at least 20-30 hours a month to his or her duties as a college trustee to be considered for appointment.

Duties of trustees include appointing, supporting, and evaluating the college president; clarifying and, if necessary, revising the college’s mission statement; ratifying long-term plans; approving the college’s educational program; ensuring fiscal viability and maintaining the college’s physical plant.

The CCM search committee requests a resume and a background statement from each applicant outlining why he or she wishes to serve as a trustee and what specific skills the applicant would bring to the board.

Applicants must send one copy of their resume and a brief background statement to the Office of the Morris County Counsel, County of Morris, P.O. Box 900, Morristown, N.J. 07963-0900.

The County College of Morris Board of Trustees is composed of eleven Morris County residents from business, education, law, and other professional fields who volunteer their services in four-year terms.

By statute, eight members are appointed by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, and two members are appointed by the Governor. The Morris County Superintendent of Schools is also a member of the Board by statute. One non-voting CCM graduate member is elected for a one-year term by each year’s graduating class. In addition, the CCM President serves as an ex-officio member.

The Board of Trustees sets policy and has final authority over budgets and expenditures, and the President is responsible for internal administrative operations.

Bee Meadow Pool Swim Team Honors Program Mentor

By
Frank Cahill
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Friends and family gather for the presentation of the Judith Mennonna Leadership Award. Left to right, Anne Farrell, Jennifer Fu, award recipient Katie Steinberg, Chiara Mennonna, Peter Mennonna, Guy Mennonna, Recreation Commissioner Robert Brueno, and Superintendent of Recreation & Parks Administration, Denise Brennan.

HANOVER — At a celebratory end-of-season celebration on July 27, members of the Bee Meadow Pool Swim Team, parents, and coaches honored program mentor Judith Mennenna by awarding, for the first time, the Judith Mennonna Leadership Award.

Katie Steinberg, a graduating swimmer, is the first recipient of the award.

As part of its commitment to developing youth leaders as well as youth athletes in its programs, Hanover Township Recreation worked with the Bee Meadow Pool Swim Team Parents Board to establish the award. Judith Mennonna oversaw the Bee Meadow Pool Swim Team for five years and was largely responsible for the growth of the program in 2018 and 2019. Ms. Mennonna died unexpectedly in July 2022. Members of the Mennonna family and former Bee Meadow Pool Parent Board Members gathered for the presentation of the award to Ms. Steinberg.

“Judy Mennonna was the heart and soul of the Bee Meadow Swim Team for many years,” says current Swim Team Board president Christine Amoresano. “She was vibrant, enthusiastic, and passionate about swimming and worked very hard to keep the team moving forward. In memory of July and to honor her commitment, dedication, and leadership to the Bee Meadow Swim Team, we establish this award.”

The criteria for the Judith Mennonna Leadership Award include:

Respect – Respect for teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials.
Attitude – A positive attitude in words and actions.
Lead by Example – The swimmer always puts out full effort.
Focus – the Swimmer participates in every practice and swims to the best of his/her ability, and encourages others to do the same.
Outcome – The swimmer always exhibits good sportsmanship – win or lose.

According to Denise Brennan, Superintendent of Recreation and Parks Administration for Hanover Township, this award encourages youth athletes in recreation programs to develop as leaders. In addition to the Judith Mennonna Leadership Award and the Pat Sages Basketball Leadership Award, the Hanover Township Recreation Bobcat Wrestling Award was established this year.

“Katie Steinberg is an outstanding choice as the first-time recipient of the Judith Mennonna Leadership Award,” says Superintendent Brennan. “Katie was the 2019 winner of the Pat Sages Basketball Leadership Award as well. She is a true leader.”

Morris County Correctional Facility Passes NJDOC Inspection

By
Frank Cahill
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The Morris County Correctional Facility, located at 43 John Street in Morris Township, serves as the primary detention center operated by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey State Department of Corrections (NJDOC), through its Office of County Services, conducted an inspection of the Morris County Correctional Facility. The authority to perform the inspection is granted by N.J.S.A. 30:1-15.

The review was conducted to determine compliance with the requirements of N.J.A.C. 10A:31, the “Manual of Standards for New Jersey Adult County Correctional Facilities.” Standards include mandates regulating Security and Control, Sanitation, Food Service, Emergencies, Protective Custody, Inmate Classification, the Inmate Work Program, Medical, Dental, and Health Services, and more.

As a result of this inspection, the Morris County Correctional Facility was found to be in full compliance with the requirements of N.J.A.C. 1OA:31. A resounding congratulations is to be shared with the entire staff of the Morris County Correctional Facility on this achievement. All are to be commended for the efforts made in preparation for this inspection and their conduct during the inspection process.

The inspectors reported during their review of the facility they found the staff was most helpful and cooperative throughout the entire inspection. Every inspector was treated in a respectful and professional manner. Sheriff James M. Gannon said, “I am so proud of our Bureau of Corrections employees. They walk the toughest beat in Morris County and always treat those incarcerated with the utmost dignity and respect.

The results of our inspection reinforce the ever-present commitment to the care of others and professionalism that exists at the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.” The correctional facility, operated under the Sheriff’s Bureau of Corrections, is also accredited by the American Correctional Association (ACA), as well as the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC).

Duck Donuts Coming to Hanover

By
Frank Cahill
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Duck Donuts will be opening in Whippany Village

HANOVER — Are you a fan of donuts? If so, get ready for freshly made, customized donuts coming to Whippany.

Duck Donuts, known for its warm, made-to-order cake donuts, has plans to open a new location at Whippany Village (located behind CVS). Along with their specialty donuts, the menu will also feature sandwiches, coffee, and desserts, all customized to your liking.

Whippany Village is located at 444 Route 10 West

They will be joining Jersey Mikes, Whippany Pizza, and Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy.

Other New Jersey Duck Donuts locations include Green Brook, Paramus, Clark, and Middletown.

The exact opening date has not been announced yet, but we’ll keep you posted as more details become available. Whippany donut lovers, rejoice! Your craving for warm, freshly-made donuts will soon be satisfied.

Mosquito Spraying in Morris Plains

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File photo

MORRIS PLAINS — The Morris County Mosquito Commission has announced that it will be using an All-Terrain vehicle to treat a section of woods in Morris Plains Borough, and Rockaway on Monday morning.

The mosquito spraying will go on from 4:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on August 7, weather permitting.

The following areas are scheduled to be treated:

  • Morris Plains: Jim Fear Dr (Community Park).
  • Rockaway: Timberbrook Rd (Camp Winnebago).

The commission will be using Anvil 2+2, active ingredient Sumithrin, EPA#1021-1687-8329 or Zenivex E4, active ingredient Etofenprox, EPA#272.

For more information, click here or call 973-285-6450.

200 Club of Morris County Plans Exciting Second Annual First Responder Day

By
Frank Cahill
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FLORHAM PARK — The 200 Club of Morris County is hosting its second annual First Responder Day on Saturday, September 23, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Emmett Park. This event brings first responders and their families together with members of surrounding communities for a day of friendly competitions among first responder departments.

Most people meet first responders on one of the worst days of their life. This is a chance to connect with them in a relaxed manner and get a better appreciation for who they are and what they do. Everyone is invited for a day of fun. There is an opportunity to cheer on the dedicated women and men serving as firefighters, police officers, OEM personnel, and EMTs in communities throughout Morris County.

There will be many competitions including corn hole and home run derby championships, and a closest-to-the-pin golf challenge. There will be fun-filled activities for kids of all ages. Everyone should come hungry and enjoy summer picnic fare and entertainment by local bands. Admission is free.

“It takes a special person to run toward danger at a moment’s notice. It requires compassion for others and highly specialized training. These are the people we depend upon and trust to keep our families safe,” says Dr. Robert D’Emidio, President of The 200 of Morris County. “First Responder Day is another way for our Club and local communities to show their support, by treating these incredible women and men to something special… a day to get outside, relax, and make some happy memories with their families and fellow first responders.”

The 200 Club of Morris County is in its 52nd year of standing behind our “Local Heroes.” Learn how you can show your support not only for this event but for the thousands of public safety officers protecting and serving your Morris County communities each and every day.

For more information contact, Dr. Robert D’Emidio at (201) 919-2536 or click here to sign up.

Lt. Gov. Oliver’s Funeral to Be Held in Newark

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver.

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy has announced the official New Jersey State Funeral and Memorial Service for the late Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver. The service will take place at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark on Saturday, August 12, and the public is warmly invited to attend.

In a solemn tribute, Oliver will lie in state in the Rotunda of the State Capital on Thursday, August 10, and at the Essex County Courthouse on Friday, August 11. A full honor guard will accompany her during these times, as announced by Murphy.

“Together, we will honor and celebrate her remarkable contributions to the state she loved,” Murphy stated, reflecting on Oliver’s dedication to her community and the people of New Jersey.

In further tribute, Governor Murphy has ordered that both the American and New Jersey flags be flown at half-mast for the next month in memory of Oliver.

Born and raised in Newark, and later residing in East Orange, Oliver left a significant mark on New Jersey’s political landscape. Before serving as Garden State’s second lieutenant governor, she made history as the first Black woman to serve as Speaker of the General Assembly.

A statement from Oliver’s family captured the sentiments of many: “[Sheila] was not only a distinguished public servant but also our cherished daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and hero. Sheila Y. Oliver leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and inspiration. We will remember her commitment to the people of New Jersey and her tireless efforts to uplift the community.”

Oliver’s funeral and lying in state provide an opportunity for the public to pay respects and reflect on the life of a woman who dedicated herself to public service, breaking barriers, and inspiring others. Her legacy is sure to be remembered and cherished by those she touched through her years of service.

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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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