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Out With the Old, In With the New: Lakeland Hills YMCA Unveils New Health & Fitness Center

By
Frank Cahill
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Lakeland Hills Family YMCA celebrates the opening of its reimagined Health and Fitness Center, members enter an upgraded space focused on wellness, connection, and community.

MOUNTAIN LAKES — Lakeland Hills YMCA has officially opened the doors to its newly upgraded and reimagined Health and Fitness Center, marking a bold new era in member wellness and community connection.

This renovation represents more than new equipment; it reflects the Y’s commitment to building stronger communities through wellness, connection, and support. The upgraded facility not only enhances fitness access but also reinforces what the YMCA has always uniquely offered: a place where people feel a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a morning workout, a shared laugh in a small group session, or cheering someone on in a cycle class, the Y remains a gathering place where relationships are built, and lives are strengthened together.

“The transformation of our Health and Fitness Center is about more than aesthetics or technology; it’s about investing in people,” said Alex Martinez, CEO of the YMCA. “We’ve built an environment where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to live their healthiest life. This renovation expands access and deepens our mission to strengthen the entire community.”

Highlights of the Renovation:

  • EGYM Smart-Strength Circuit: Members now enjoy a guided, full-body workout in less than 30 minutes. Each tech-enabled machine automatically adjusts to the individual using a personalized wristband, creating a safe, efficient, and accessible experience for all fitness levels.
  • Expanded & Upgraded Turf-Training Zone: Redesigned to inspire movement and strength, this dynamic space includes ropes, agility equipment, and room for functional training. Perfect for small groups or individuals looking to challenge themselves in a modern performance environment.
  • High-Energy Cycle Studio: Featuring immersive lighting, a raised stage, and heart-pumping sound, this studio turns cycling into a fully engaging fitness experience. Classes are designed to motivate and connect participants through movement and music.
  • FitWorks Studio: This new small group and personal training space invites members to take their fitness to the next level with expert coaching in a focused, high-impact setting, ideal for goal-oriented training.
  • Enhanced Cardio, Strength & Power Zones: The Center’s main areas have been reimagined to offer more space, updated equipment, and a welcoming layout where members can train hard and work smart in pursuit of their personal goals.

Beyond the machines and studio lights, the YMCA remains committed to what matters most – people. This upgraded space invites members to not only achieve their personal wellness goals but to experience the connection, encouragement, and support that only the Y can offer.

About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA

Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the foundations of our community by supporting youth, improving health and well-being, and fostering connection. From early learning and summer camp to aquatics, fitness, and enrichment programs, we serve people of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring everyone has access to opportunities that build confidence, relationships, and lifelong well-being.

Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms to Host Free Valentine’s Open House

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, the early 20th-century historic home of Gustav Stickley, is delighted to invite the public to a FREE Valentine’s Open House on Saturday, February 14, from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m.

The Valentine’s Open House will take place across the Craftsman Farms property and will include open house access to the Log House, which will be decorated to reflect early-20th-century Valentine’s traditions. Guests will explore the colors, symbols, and sentiments of the season as they were celebrated in the Stickley household.

Docents will be available throughout the Log House to share information about the history and significance of Valentine’s Day traditions during the Victorian era and the Stickley family’s own seasonal celebrations. Completed in 1911, the Log House is one of the most important architectural achievements of the Arts and Crafts movement in America. Originally designed as a clubhouse, it became the Stickley family home and remains the heart of the property today.

The Craftsman Shop will be open for Valentine’s shopping and will feature a curated selection of contemporary Arts & Crafts and seasonal gifts, perfect for sharing with a loved one. Guests can browse custom jewelry and accessories, books, home décor, museum exclusives, toys, textiles, and special Valentine’s garlands, ornaments, and cards.

The Education Center will offer visitors of all ages the opportunity to create a personalized Valentine inspired by Victorian-era designs.

For those seeking an enhanced experience, the museum will also offer the Cavaliers & Ladies: The Stickley Valentines Tour, a ticketed guided tour of the decorated Log House that provides additional context on early-20th-century Valentine’s traditions and Gustav Stickley’s era. Advance reservations are recommended.

For more information, click here or follow the museum on social media.

Snowcone the Maltese Is Ready for Her Forever Home

By
Frank Cahill
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Snowcone, a gentle 7-year-old Maltese rescued from a puppy mill by WISE Animal Rescue, is now ready for a loving forever home where she can finally experience comfort, companionship, and care.

PARSIPPANY — Snowcone is a gentle, 7-year-old Maltese who is ready to begin a brand-new chapter—one filled with love, comfort, and companionship. This small, sweet girl is currently in foster care through WISE Animal Rescue, a completely volunteer-run rescue dedicated to saving and rehabilitating dogs in need.

Snowcone’s story is one of resilience. She spent her entire life as a breeding dog in a puppy mill and, when she was no longer considered useful, was at risk of being discarded. Thankfully, WISE stepped in just in time, rescuing Snowcone and giving her the second chance she so richly deserves.

Despite her difficult past, Snowcone has a heart full of quiet sweetness. She can be timid when first meeting new people, but with a little patience, she settles in beautifully. Once comfortable, she enjoys calmly roaming the house, gently exploring her surroundings, and soaking up affection. She is incredibly patient and welcomes being petted or held at any time.

Snowcone thrives in the company of others. She does wonderfully with dogs of all ages—including puppies—and is fantastic with children. She is also cat-friendly, making her a wonderful fit for many types of households. Her ideal home would include at least one other dog to help her continue building confidence.

Snowcone is still learning the basics of life outside a kennel, but she is making steady progress. She is adapting well to pee pads, is working on leash training, and sleeps soundly overnight in her crate when it’s placed near her humans. Her gentle nature and eagerness to please make her a joy to support as she learns.

WISE Animal Rescue partners with supportive veterinary practices to ensure every dog receives the care they need—whether standard or specialized. To help sustain this lifesaving work, adopters are asked to support the program with a minimum donation of $850, which helps care for all dogs in the rescue, not just the one being adopted.

Snowcone is available for adoption in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maine, Vermont, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.

If you’re ready to give Snowcone the loving home she’s waited her whole life for, visit WiseAnimalRescue.org to fill out an adoption application.

Sometimes the smallest dogs have the biggest hearts—and Snowcone is ready to share hers.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2026. Click here to download the magazine.

Footprints in Time” Photography Exhibit Features Transformation of Rare Glass Negatives, Interpretive Posters and Artifacts from 1800s 

By
Frank Cahill
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The photo was taken at a farm near the area of Dover’s first settlement, in what is today Hurd Park on Route 46.

MORRIS COUNTY — The community is invited to a free opening reception on Friday, February 6, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., as County College of Morris (CCM), in partnership with the Dover Historical Society and the Dover College Promise Program, unveils “Footprints in Time,” a rare historical photography exhibit in the CCM Gallery. The exhibit will remain on view through Thursday, April 2. 

A remarkable window into Dover’s past, the exhibit features approximately 100 images from the late 1800s, capturing local life, architecture and landscapes of Dover and surrounding areas in Morris County. Interpretive posters and period artifacts, along with the techniques used for early glass negative techniques and the modern digitization of these images in CCM’s photography studio, will be presented.  

In addition to partnering with the Dover Historical Society and Dover College Promise Program, the project was led by Julian Gomez, executive director of Educational Opportunity at CCM, along with CCM Gallery Director and Associate Professor Dr. Brian Sahotsky and Associate Professor Hrvoje Slovenc.  

CCM’s College Promise Programs are committed to helping Morris County students from Dover and Morristown High Schools and their families address academic and financial challenges in pursuing post-secondary education. Students participate in various activities designed to prepare them for college, including community-based learning projects like this one. Anyone interested in learning more about CCM’s College Promise Programs or opportunities for high school students, visit https://www.ccm.edu/admissions/high-school-dual-enrollment/. To donate and support CCM’s College Promise Programs, click on the form here. 

 Questions about this project may be emailed to [email protected].  

 The CCM Gallery is located in the Sherman H. Masten Learning Resource Center on the college’s campus, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Gallery hours are Mondays through Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Parking is available in Lot 6. For more information visit www.ccm.edu/ccm-gallery. 

Jefferson Township Seeks Nominations for 2025 Citizen of the Year Award

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township Mayor Eric F. Wilsusen

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Township of Jefferson Township is now accepting nominations for its 2025 Citizen of the Year Award, an annual honor recognizing an individual or couple whose volunteerism, dedication, and outstanding service have made a significant and lasting contribution to the community.

The Citizen of the Year Award celebrates residents who continually give their time, talents, and energy to make Jefferson Township a great place to live, work, play, and learn. Nominees should be individuals who have made a positive difference in the lives of fellow citizens, demonstrated a deep commitment to the township, and shown concern for others through service on school, church, service, or community committees.

Additional qualities considered by the selection committee include a collaborative spirit, enthusiasm for the township and its residents, and a demonstrated commitment to the betterment of the community. Nominees should also exemplify honesty and integrity.

In selecting the recipient, the committee will consider achievements from the year immediately prior to the award, as well as past accomplishments and ongoing contributions. A nominee needs to be nominated only once to be considered, and the number of nominations received will not influence the final decision.

Residents who wish to nominate a deserving individual are encouraged to complete the official Citizen of the Year Nomination Form, available at the Jefferson Township Municipal Building or online at www.jeffersontownship.net, or by clicking here. Completed nomination forms must be submitted no later than March 14.

Nominations may be returned by mail or in person to the Jefferson Township Municipal Building, 1033 Weldon Road, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849, Attn.: Mayor’s Office, or submitted by email to [email protected].

Nominees will be invited to attend a Jefferson Township Council meeting, where the identity of the 2025 Citizen of the Year will be announced. Information submitted as part of the nomination process may be used for publicity purposes.

The township encourages residents to take part in recognizing those who selflessly give back and help strengthen the Jefferson Township community.

Jefferson Township – Township Council Meeting – January 21, 2026

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Council will convene for its regular public meeting on Wednesday, January 21, at 7:00 p.m. at the Jefferson Township Municipal Building. Several policy, financial, and administrative matters are scheduled for discussion and action.

Click here to download the agenda.

Council and Mayor Discussion
Council members and the mayor will discuss a proposed right-of-way vacation for a portion of Edgewood Road, as well as proposed dates for upcoming budget workshops. The Council will also consider appointments to the Jefferson Township Library Board, including filling an unexpired term and a new full-term appointment.

Administrative Reports
Mayor Eric Wilsusen and Township Administrator Debi Millikin are expected to provide updates, including discussion regarding a Dial-A-Ride vehicle, a service used by seniors and residents with disabilities.

Appointments and Board Assignments
The Council will act on several internal appointments, including:

  • A Council representative to the Land Use Board
  • A Council appointment to the Community Development Revenue Sharing Advisory Committee
  • Two Council representatives to the Economic Advisory Board

Professional Services and Contracts
Multiple resolutions are scheduled to be voted on, including:

  • Awarding professional contracts for Township Labor Attorney, Township Attorney, and Municipal Planner
  • Approval of a water and sewer utility consulting services contract
  • Authorization of a five-year solid waste and recycling collection contract
  • Lease approval for the Train Cabin used by the Berkshire Dover and West Milford Train Club
  • Final payment and change order approval for Schoolhouse Road improvements

Budget and Financial Matters
Council members will consider:

  • A temporary budget amendment reflecting updated state allowances
  • Transfers of appropriations within the water and sewer operating budgets
  • Payment of bills and routine financial resolutions

Cannabis-Related Actions
The agenda includes discussion and resolutions related to renewal of local cannabis retail licenses, including establishments previously approved by the township.

Ordinance Introduction
An ordinance will be introduced on first reading to establish clear standards for the placement and use of shipping containers within Jefferson Township. A public hearing on the ordinance is scheduled for a future meeting.

Public Comment
Residents will have two opportunities to address the Council during public comment portions of the meeting.

• Eric F. Wilsusen (R) – Mayor
• Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2026

  1. Robert “Bob” Birmingham (R) – Council President
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2028
  2. Josh Kalish (R) – Council Vice President
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2026
  3. Melissa Senatore (R) – Councilwoman
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2026
  4. Barbie Garruto (R) – Councilwoman
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2028
  5. Dan Schultz (R) – Councilman
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2028

Breakfast With the Mayor Set for January 22 at Jefferson Diner

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township Mayor Eric F. Wilsusen

JEFFERSON — The Jefferson Township Chamber of Commerce will host Breakfast With the Mayor on Thursday, January 22, beginning at 7:30 a.m., at the Jefferson Diner, 5 Bowling Green Pkwy, Lake Hopatcong.

The event will feature Eric Wilsusen, who will provide members of the business community with an update on the latest developments, initiatives, and economic activity taking place throughout Jefferson Township.

Admission is $20 per person and includes breakfast. Advance registration is required and can be completed online by clicking here.

This breakfast program offers local business owners, professionals, and community leaders the opportunity to hear directly from the mayor while networking with fellow members of the Jefferson Township business community.

Denville Police Arrest Randolph Man for DWI Following Route 10 Traffic Stop

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

MORRIS COUNTY — On January 15, 2026, at approximately 4:20 a.m., Denville police stopped a vehicle traveling 25 miles per hour in a posted 50-mile-per-hour zone and failing to maintain its lane on Route 10 westbound.

The driver, identified as Luis Cadena, 41, of Randolph, exhibited signs of intoxication during the investigation and was placed under arrest. He was transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing.

Cadena was issued motor vehicle summonses for driving while under the influence, reckless driving, careless driving, refusal to submit to breath testing, failure to maintain lane, and possession of an open container of cannabis in a motor vehicle. He was released on his own recognizance pending a future appearance in Denville Municipal Court.

Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.

Lakeland Hills Family YMCA and Sunrise Senior Living to Host Winter Jazz Concert

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Members of a jazz ensemble perform during a live concert, showcasing the rich sounds of brass instruments in a dynamic musical setting.

MOUNTAIN LAKES — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, in partnership with Sunrise Senior Living, will present a Winter Jazz Concert on Thursday, March 26, at 2:00 p.m., as part of the program “Chase the Winter Blues Away.” The concert is free and open to the community and will take place at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes.

The afternoon performance will feature the talented Mountain Lakes High School Jazz Band, showcasing the energy and musical skill of local student musicians. Attendees can look forward to a lively selection of jazz favorites designed to lift spirits and celebrate the season.

The event reflects the YMCA’s ongoing commitment to wellness, community connection, and intergenerational engagement, while Sunrise Senior Living continues its mission of promoting vibrant living and meaningful experiences for older adults and the wider community.

Advance registration is requested and can be completed online at www.lakelandhillsymca.com.

Please note that all guests aged 18 and older who are not YMCA members will be required to present a driver’s license or state-issued identification upon arrival.

For more information about this event or other upcoming programs, visit the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA website.

Jefferson Township Book Club to Host Cookbook Book Club Event at Public Library

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Jefferson Township Public Library is located at located at 1031 Weldon Road, Oak Ridge.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Public Library invites residents to spice up their reading routine with a fun and flavorful Cookbook Book Club meeting on Saturday, January 25, at 3:00 p.m. at the library, located at 1031 Weldon Road, Oak Ridge.

This month’s theme, “Party Dips,” is inspired by the excitement of game day. Participants are encouraged to bring a favorite dip and sides to share, offering everyone a chance to discover new recipes and crowd-pleasing flavors. From classic favorites to creative twists, the event promises a fun and flavorful afternoon.

The Cookbook Book Club blends a love of reading with hands-on culinary inspiration, giving attendees an opportunity to discuss cookbooks, exchange recipes, and connect with fellow food enthusiasts in a relaxed, social setting.

The event is open to the public, and no prior book club experience is required. Residents looking for a unique way to enjoy food, conversation, and community are encouraged to attend.

For more information about the Cookbook Book Club or other upcoming programs, visit the Jefferson Township Public Library or check its calendar of events.

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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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