Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Home Blog Page 348

Incumbent Mayor Menard Joins Candidates Cannon and Muilenburg in Campaign for Mountain Lakes Borough Council Seats

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Chris Cannon, Melissa Muilenburg and Tom Menard

MOUNTAIN LAKES — Incumbent Mountain Lakes Mayor Tom Menard joins the slate with candidates Chris Cannon and Melissa Muilenburg in their “One Community” campaign to win the three Mountain Lakes Borough Council seats up for election this November. The slate emphasizes its proven leadership in “getting things done” while managing the borough’s tax dollars responsibly. The candidates’ priorities include strong fiscal oversight, as seen in the significant municipal tax decrease of 7.7% during Menard’s 2021-22 tenure. The campaign platform also prioritizes the following: investments in infrastructure, public safety, and recreation; thoughtful planning and development along with support for local businesses; preserving the borough’s natural environment, historic character, and strong community spirit; and offering responsive and accountable leadership.

Incumbent Mountain Lakes Mayor Tom Menard

Mayor Tom Menard says, “My parents moved to Mountain Lakes in 1967 for the same reasons I decided to stay and raise my two children here — great schools, a strong sense of community and the beautiful natural environment.”

Menard is currently in his second year as Mayor of Mountain Lakes and has been a member of Borough Council for four years, serving on the Planning Board and the Department of Public Works, Economic Development, Recreation, and Borough Hall Project committees. He has a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Delaware. As an engineer and builder, Menard’s strengths lie in reviewing planned infrastructure and development projects, providing effective oversight, and ensuring that they conform with the borough’s master plan. Menard started his construction company here 29 years ago. With a long history of local volunteerism, Menard has served on the board of the Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms for 10 years and as president and board member of the Medical Needs Foundation for 7 years. Menard says, “The people of this town have been exceptional to me and my family. They deserve a council member who is dedicated to preserving the character and community of Mountain Lakes while adapting to current needs. I am committed to giving back to Mountain Lakes and saying thanks. This town is my history, and my heart is here.”

Candidate Chris Cannon

“I am running for Council to help continue the progress the current council has made and to be a leader for all Lakers,” says candidate Chris Cannon. An 18-year resident of Mountain Lakes, Cannon truly values the incredible sense of community and pride in Mountain Lakes. A graduate of Brown University, Chris is an entrepreneur and small business owner in the restaurant industry. His background provides a new perspective to advancing the interests of the town over the next four years. He has always taken a keen interest in the importance of the arts, culture, education, and philanthropy in fostering a sense of pride of place. As a member of the business community in Morristown, Chris serves on the boards of The Morristown Cultural District, The Morris County Tourism Board and the Advisory Board of Homeless Solutions and One Love, all key players in Morristown’s resurgence as one of the most respected towns in the state. Since its opening, Chris’ restaurant Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen has raised more than $1,200,000 for an array of local nonprofits serving families, children, health, the arts, and education.

Candidate Melissa Muilenburg

Melissa Muilenburg’s 20-year legal career in banking and real estate, as well as her experience serving as the Chairperson of the Board at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, provides a valuable skill set for serving on Council. She has vast experience closing commercial deals, reviewing and approving budgets and strategic plans, negotiating contracts, chairing committees, and working effectively with others to get things done. These skills will aid in cultivating strong management and fiscal oversight, improving communications, protecting the community’s environment, and supporting new development that will bolster economic well-being. “I am running for Borough Council because it allows me to combine my passion for service with my love for Mountain Lakes,” says candidate Melissa Muilenburg. A 30-year resident of Mountain Lakes, Muilenburg began her commitment to service while attending Trinity College, where she tutored inner city youth. In Mountain Lakes, Melissa has coached for the Mountain Lakes Junior Track program, served as President of the Laker Sports Club board, and coached marathon runners for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

To find out more about the One Community campaign, visit their website by clicking here.

Citizen Report Leads to DWI Arrest

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

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Boonton Township Police patrols responded to a report of a possible intoxicated driver in the area of Rockaway Valley Road on Wednesday, August 10.

Policee Officers located a vehicle on the side of the roadway and after making contact with the driver, identified as Jose Raposo, 65, South River, detected signs of intoxication.

An investigation also revealed an outstanding Traffic Warrant for DWI out of Spotswood. Field Sobriety tests were conducted which resulted in Mr. Raposo being placed under arrest.

Mr. Raposo was charged with DWI, Driving While Suspended, Careless Driving, Reckless Driving, Refusal to Take Breath Test, Failure to Maintain Lane, Open Container in a Motor Vehicle, Failure to Install Interlock Device, and Failure to Possess License. He was released pending future court dates.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or signing a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Suspicious Vehicle Turns Up Wanted Man

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Boonton Township Police Department observed a suspicious vehicle parked on the side of the road in the area of Hillcrest Road.

A plate check revealed that the registered owner had multiple active warrants out of Rockaway Township and Jefferson.

After a check of the area the owner of the vehicle, identified as Zachary Stager, 18, Oak Ridge, was located and placed under arrest for the outstanding warrants.

He was then transported back to police headquarters where he was turned over to the custody of the Jefferson Police Department.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or signing a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The Women’s Center at CCM Receives $150,000 Grant

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Having helped thousands of women to gain economic self-sufficiency and fulfilling lives, The Women’s Center at County College of Morris (CCM) recently received a $150,000 grant from the New Jersey Department of Children and Families and Division on Women continuing their support of the center’s mission.

“The Women’s Center offers a full range of comprehensive services to support displaced homemakers with achieving financial independence,” says Director Shannon Lengares. “We do this through goal setting, career counseling, educational and training scholarships, computer skill building, resume and cover letter writing, workshops including financial management, job search strategies, interview preparation and more.”

The center also offers a Job Club Speaker Series, Job Seekers Support Group and connections to community resources. In addition, it offers a legal program that consists of free 30-minute legal consultations with family law attorneys and a divorce workshop series that is offered twice a year. While most of its clients are women, the center’s services also are available to men who meet the displaced homemaker criteri.

Displaced homemakers are individuals who have managed their homes for several years while being financially supported by a spouse, partner or family member and due to divorce, separation, death or disability then find themselves needing to serve as the primary source of household income. In many cases, displaced homemakers are underemployed and unable to financially support themselves or their families. Others may have difficulty obtaining employment due to a gap in work history.

The Women’s Center has been a part of CCM for over 30 years. In the 1970s, when the national divorce rate rose rapidly, many women who had worked primarily in their home, raising a family, suddenly faced the daunting task of obtaining or updating skills and reentering the workforce. In 1979, the New Jersey Displaced Homemakers Act was signed into law by then Governor Brendan Byrne. The act did not appropriate funding but mandated that action be taken to address the issue of displaced homemakers. In 1982, the Vocational Division of the New Jersey Department of Education appropriated startup funds for six displaced homemakers’ centers. Today such centers are found across the state.

If you know someone who could use the services offered through The Women’s Center at CCM or to learn more about the program by clicking here.

Stolen Car Chase Leads Police on Massive Manhunt

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
One suspect handcuffed by police

MORRIS COUNTY — The Town of Boonton Police Department, New Jersey State Police is assisting the Montville Township Police Department with an ongoing investigation. Their investigation led to an area being search in Parsippany at the Jersey City Reservoir Property and Interstate 287 Southbound.

Multiple law enforcement agencies are in that area assisting with the search.

Police arrested three suspects, and are searching for one more.

Montville Police issued this statement “Attempted burglaries to motor vehicles off of Taylortown and in the northern part of town. Review cameras and email [email protected].”

As details are released, Morris Focus will update this article.

New Jersey State Police Helicopters flying over the area

Editor’s Note: An arrest or signing a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

CCM to Offer Free Eldercare, Guardianship and Estate Planning Workshop 

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Trish Colucci Barbosa

MORRIS COUNTY — Caring for an elderly loved one can result in a multitude of overwhelming responsibilities and myriad unanswered questions. Join County College of Morris (CCM) Foundation Board member John P. Beyel, Esq., of McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, LLP of Morristown, and CCM alumna Trish Colucci Barbosa ’85, RN-BC, CCM of Peace Aging Care Experts, LLC of Flanders, as they share their expertise and offer informative advice on the sensitive topic of caring for elderly loved ones.

This free session is being held on Thursday, September 29, 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Student Community Center, Davidson Room A, on CCM’s campus at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Refreshments will be served.

Beyel, a partner at McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, LLP, has extensive experience in many facets of the legal system. The firm’s practice areas include environmental, aviation, immigration, insurance, intellectual property, labor and employment, real estate and tax law. In addition, Beyel has been co-chair of the Trust & Estate Section of the Morris County Bar Association.

Barbosa, president and founder of Peace Aging Care Experts, LLC, began her care management agency when she realized her nursing skills combined with her care management expertise filled a special need in people’s lives. She founded Peace Aging Care in 2006 to assist people and their families with successfully navigating crisis situations, planning ahead for future care needs and getting more out of life every day.

While there is no fee to attend the presentation, space is limited. Kindly RSVP online at by clicking here or for more information contact Pam Williams at [email protected] or (973) 328-5060.

Participants can use Parking Lot 6 directly adjacent to the Student Community Center.

Happer, Hayward, and Stelling Announce Their Candidacy for Borough Council

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

MOUNTAIN LAKES — Mountain Lakes Councilman Daniel Happer, along with Jane Hayward, and Lucas Stelling proudly announce their candidacy for the 2022 election for Borough Council for Mountain Lakes. The candidates are sending the message to the residents of Mountain Lakes that they will listen to and amplify the voice of all community members. The candidates believe so strongly in committing to the priorities of their fellow lakers that they kicked off their campaign with a survey to receive community feedback on the importance of local issues including safety, the environment, town services, taxes, and the borough hall construction project.

The candidates’ platform is: “Your Voice, Your Priorities.” “Residents in town deserve representatives that will listen first and act second,” said incumbent Councilman and former mayor, Dan Happer on behalf of the campaign. “I am hearing concerns from Mountain Lakes residents about the slow progress of the Borough Hall project, the quality of the lakes and increased theft in town. We want to make sure our administration is responsive to these concerns- being raised directly by the residents. We want to advance the agenda of the residents.”

Happer, Hayward, and Stelling bring unrivaled municipal leadership, business, financial,
legal and community experience.

Daniel Happer is a 24-year resident and 14-year member of Borough Council. He served
as Mayor 2013-2014 and Deputy Mayor 2011-2012. Happer is a current member of the
Environmental, Financial Advisory and Public Safety/Borough Hall Infrastructure Advisory, andSolid Waste committees. He volunteered his time to the community by serving ten years in Borough’s Swimming program, including seven years as president. The town has relied on Happer’s finance and accounting experience and fiscal responsibility as he is a finance executive with more than 40 years of experience. Councilman Dan Happer is the father of three MLHS graduates and is now a proud grandfather who is often seen pushing a stroller down the Boulevard with his wife Cindi.

Lucas Stelling is a 9-year resident of Mountain Lakes. He holds a BS, cum laude in Physics
and Chemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). He also earned a JD in Law from the Catholic University of America. Stelling has 14-years of experience as a civil servant in the federal government as a Patent Examiner at the USPTO. He specialized in environmental remediation, drinking water purification, and sewage processing patent applications. He is currently a patent attorney for an international intellectual property law firm. He is an active member of the Mountain Lakes Shade Tree Commission, a Morris County Master Poll Worker for Denville and Rockaway Borough, and a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, in Ridgewood.

Jane Hayward is a 22-year resident of Mountain Lakes who holds a BS, Business
Administration & Hospitality Management from Montclair State University. She is a career
project manager working in pharmaceutical, healthcare and bio life sciences. Hayward
volunteered her time as the Chair of Mountain Lakes Day Committee for 12 years, a member of the Mountain Lakes Centennial Committee four years, and Volunteer for Mountain Lakes Swimming Association. Hayward is an active member and cantor of St. Catherine of Siena Church. She is the mother of two children and is proud to see her youngest start college this year.

The candidates’ campaign kick-off letter to Mountain Lakes residents included the
following: “Motivated by YOUR priorities, we come together as a team of candidates to bring experience and a new perspective to Borough Council. In the past four years, Borough Council has approved more spending than ever before in the history of Mountain Lakes. It is time to focus on YOUR priorities and work with our residents and committees to maintain our quality of life, on a smart budget.”

The Happer, Hayward and Stelling “Your Voices, Your Priorities” platform is to:
• HEAR resident concerns and priorities
• DELIVER budget conscious solutions
• PROTECT our community
• PRESERVE our parks, lakes, open spaces, and community character

Election day is Tuesday, November 8, 2022. The Mountain Lakes Borough Council elections will be held concurrently with other local, state, and federal elections.

Learn more about the candidates and their campaign by clicking here.

Madison Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting Ladies Night

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

MADISON — Madison is hosting Ladies Night on Thursday, September 15, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The event is being sponsored by Bottle Hill Tavern, 13 Waverly Place, GameChanger Madison, 132 Main Street, Harvest Bistro, 50 1/2 Main Street, Morris Animal Inn, 120 Sand Spring Road, Morristown, Pipe Works Home Services, 33 River Road, Chatham and Provident Bank, 98 Main Street. 

Madison businesses are looking forward to welcoming all those who plan to come and enjoy an evening out shopping and dining throughout the downtown.

Participants are invited to begin the evening at registration which opens at 5:30 p.m. at The Pink Pear, 42 Main Street. Refreshments will be offered at registration compliments of Gary’s Wine & Marketplace, 121 Main Street and Harvest Bistro. You must be at least 21 years old to participate.

The first 100 registrants will receive a gift bag filled with items donated by the local businesses. You must be present to receive a bag.

After registration participants can browse through the downtown businesses and enjoy the many open houses, special deals, and demonstrations. Many participating businesses will also be holding basket raffles.

Please visit MadisonNJChamber.org and facebook.com/ilovemadisonnj for more event information.

Thief Wanted For Razor Shoplifting Spree In Denville

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

MORRIS COUNTY — Residents are being asked to help the Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers identify this man, who is a suspect in a Denville Township burglary.

The Denville Township Police Department reports that at 4:18 p.m. on Saturday, August 20, a black male suspect shoplifted approximately $680 worth of razors from the CVS in Denville, located at 267 East Main Street.

The suspect then went to Denville’s Walgreens, located at 22 West Main Street, and attempted to shoplift several more items.

An employee confronted the suspect inside the Walgreens and chased him out of the store. The suspect was then seen getting into the back seat of a silver or beige four-door sedan, which was thought to be either an Uber or Lyft.

According to police, the suspect is believed to have been involved in similar shoplifting incidents throughout the state.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers at www.copcall.org, or call 973-COP-CALL.

Roots and Wings Host Annual Rise and Fly Gala

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

FLORHAM PARK — Supporters gather for an evening to raise awareness and funds for young people who have aged-out of foster care in New Jersey, which currently impacts 600-800 youths annually. Sadly, many of these young adults are not reunited with their families or placed into permanent housing, leaving them vulnerable to homelessness, poverty, unemployment, lack of education, and incarceration.

This year’s event is proud to honor Paul Heroux, an avid volunteer and supporter of Roots & Wings. The evening will also feature inspirational stories from the young people the agency serves, exciting auction prizes, and opportunities to make a significant impact on their mission.

The event will be held on Wednesday, September 28, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and the Park Savoy, 263 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park.

The mission of Roots & Wings, a Denville-based non-profit organization, is to provide safe housing, emotional support, life skills, and educational opportunities for youth aging out of foster care; empowering them to rise toward their greatest potential.

Roots & Wings is funded almost entirely by individual donors. The Rise & Fly Gala is the largest fundraising event of the year. This funding allows them to continue to change the course of the lives of aged-out foster youth in New Jersey.

WHO: Youth speakers will share their inspirational stories and Paul Heroux will be honored for his unwavering support of the Roots & Wings mission.

To learn more and register to attend, click here.

Founded in 1999 by Irene DeGrandpre, a CASA volunteer and NJ hero honoree, R&W began as a community-based volunteer operation. Intending to provide an intensive, life-changing program focused on the empowerment of education and the development of critically necessary life skills, R&W volunteers established a residential program to support these young people as they transition from foster care to independence. Today, we have housing in Morris and Union counties and accept young adults from all over the state.

Through housing and case management, we provide a safety net, protecting our clients from the risks foster youth face, when left without support and guidance. This greatly reduces their risk of lifetime poverty and hardship. Clients leave R&W having broken the cycle of poverty, abuse, and despair that research shows often continues generation after generation absent intensive outside intervention. All this, because a volunteer in her community, decided to change the world, one young adult at a time.

1...347348349...696Page 348 of 696

RECENT POSTS

BUSINESS BRIEFS

LOCAL COMMUNITIES

ABOUT US

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.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2024 Zoomus Marketing, LLC.

Translate »