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Sherrill’s Resignation Triggers Two Special Elections in CD11

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy has issued a writ of election to fill the vacancy in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District (CD-11), created when Mikie Sherrill resigned her seat to assume the office of governor.

Key dates to mark on your calendar:

  • A special primary election will be held on Wednesday, February 5. Early voting will be available for six days ahead of the primary.
  • A special general election will take place on Wednesday, April 16, with nine days of early voting prior to that date.

Which towns are impacted?
CD-11 covers a broad swath of suburban northern New Jersey, including numerous municipalities in Morris, Essex and Passaic Counties. Towns within the district include:

  • In Morris County: Boonton, Boonton Township, Butler, Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, Denville, Dover, East Hanover, Florham Park, Hanover Township, Harding Township, Jefferson Township, Kinnelon, Lincoln Park, Madison, Mendham Township (part), Montville, Morris Plains, Morris Township, Morristown, Mountain Lakes, Parsippany-Troy Hills, Pequannock Township, Randolph Township, Riverdale, Rockaway Borough, Rockaway Township, and Victory Gardens.
  • In Essex County: Belleville, Bloomfield, Cedar Grove, Fairfield, Glen Ridge, Livingston, Maplewood, Millburn, Montclair (part), North Caldwell, Nutley, Roseland, South Orange, and West Caldwell.
  • In Passaic County: Little Falls, Totowa, Wayne (part), Woodland Park, and Totowa.

For residents listed above, the vacancy presents a chance to weigh in on the direction of federal representation. While Sherrill has served the district, her departure opens the seat for fresh competition and an early look at voter sentiment ahead of the next standard election cycle.

Why these elections matter
The office in question is a U.S. House seat, carrying broad responsibilities for federal legislation, constituent services, and advocacy for district priorities. Because this is a special election, turnout and engagement are often lower than during general election years — making each vote particularly important for determining the outcome.

According to election officials, early voting for both the primary and general will be available, giving busy working families and commuters a more flexible way to participate.

What residents should do now

  • Check your voter registration status and district assignment. While CD-11 is well‐defined, municipal boundaries and district maps can be complex.
  • Make note of your preferred early voting dates (six days ahead of February 5 for primary; nine days ahead of April 16 for general).
  • Monitor local election communications for information about polling places, mail‐in ballots, and candidate-filing details.
  • Follow announcements from county election boards (in Morris, Essex, or Passaic, depending on your town), since each county administers the vote within its portion of CD-11.

Looking ahead
The outcome of these special elections could offer early signals for broader trends in the region, especially as suburban districts like CD-11 continue to evolve. For local officials and residents alike, engagement now ensures their voice is heard at the national level.

Please stay tuned to Morris Focus and local outlets for more updates on candidate filings, campaign events, and early-voting logistics in the weeks ahead.

Arts, Music, and Community Shine at Madison’s Holiday Arts Festival

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MADISON — The Madison Holiday Arts Festival will return Thanksgiving weekend with three days of performances, music, art, and community celebration throughout Downtown Madison. Running from Friday, November 28, through Sunday, November 30, the festival is presented by the Madison Arts & Culture Alliance (MACA), the Madison Downtown Development Commission (DDC), and the Madison Chamber of Commerce. This annual tradition brings residents and visitors together to experience the richness of Madison’s local arts scene.

The Madison Community Arts Center, located at 10 Kings Road, will once again serve as the festival headquarters and warming station, offering information and support for attendees throughout the weekend.

A Weekend Filled With Music and Creativity

Friday’s programming kicks off at noon with Classical Music Acts at the Madison Community Arts Center, followed by a full schedule of performances at venues including Romanelli’s, Harvest Bistro, Dewey’s Comic City, Shanghai Jazz, and the METC Annex. Performers include Roe Knows Best, Darren O’Neill, Lavender Disaster, The Nightly Noodle, Jerry Vezza Quartet, Flying Cars, and Lev Okun, bringing diverse musical styles to downtown.

On Saturday, performances begin at noon with the Spotlight Kids at the METC Annex, alongside more classical music at the Arts Center. Throughout the afternoon and evening, local artists such as Dan Baldan, Sydney Leigh, Danello (Sad Surfer), Olivia Eden, Cara Scarmack, Dave Murphy Trio, Famous Prophets, Samantha Jean, and Misa Rai will perform across multiple venues.

Sunday’s lineup features two signature events at the Madison Community Arts Center: the Poe Opera: “Tell-Tale Heart” from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., followed by Live Holiday Show Filming from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., closing the festival with a blend of classic storytelling and modern holiday creativity.

Free and Open to All

All events during the Madison Holiday Arts Festival are free and open to the public, offering families, visitors, and arts enthusiasts a chance to enjoy live music, performances, and festive downtown energy over the holiday weekend.

Organizers invite the community to stroll Madison’s downtown, enjoy local dining and shops, and participate in a celebration that highlights the vibrancy of Madison’s arts and cultural life.

Dover Launches Annual Toys for Tots Holiday Toy Drive

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo. Toys for Tots 2024

DOVER — The Town of Dover has officially kicked off its annual Toys for Tots Holiday Toy Drive, running now through December 5. Residents are encouraged to help brighten the season for local children by donating new, unwrapped toys.

A collection bin is available at Town Hall, 37 North Sussex Street, where community members can drop off their contributions throughout the drive.

The excitement continues on Saturday, December 7, when the Toys for Tots Train arrives on North Sussex Street, next to Town Hall. The train is scheduled to pull in at 11:00 a.m. and depart at 11:50 a.m., giving families a chance to participate in the event and watch the annual tradition in action.

Adding to the festive spirit, Santa Claus will make a special appearance, greeting children and spreading holiday cheer as the community comes together in support of a meaningful cause.

Town officials encourage residents to donate generously and help ensure every child experiences the joy of the holiday season.

Dover Welcomes the Season with Festive Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File photo

DOVER — The Town of Dover is gearing up for one of its most cherished holiday traditions as residents prepare to gather on Monday, December 1, for an evening filled with festive cheer, bright lights, and community celebration.

The annual Holiday Kickoff is set to transform the heart of town into a winter wonderland, beginning with a lively Holiday Market at JFK Park from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Local vendors will line the park offering gifts, crafts, and seasonal favorites, giving families and visitors a perfect opportunity to start their holiday shopping close to home.

At 6:00 p.m., the excitement moves to Crescent Field Parking Lot B, where the town’s holiday parade will step off. The parade will travel down Blackwell Street, continue with a left turn onto North Bergen Street, and make its final stop at JFK Park. Spectators along the route can expect a joyful display of community groups, festive floats, and holiday characters spreading cheer throughout the downtown.

Once the parade reaches JFK Park, families will find a full lineup of holiday attractions. Children and adults alike can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, a trackless train, a live nativity, and a giant snow globe perfect for festive photos. Adding to the fun, The Grinch will make a special appearance to entertain guests of all ages.

The highlight of the evening will be the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, illuminating JFK Park with the warm glow of holiday lights and marking the official start of the season in Dover.

Town officials encourage residents to bring their families, friends, and holiday spirit for an evening designed to bring the community together. With activities for all ages and traditions that residents look forward to each year, Dover’s Holiday Kickoff promises to once again deliver a memorable night of celebration and unity.

Hope & Healing: Kiwanis Launches Statewide Conference on Youth Homelessness

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Dashaan Jennings delivers an inspiring keynote at the New Jersey Kiwanis Hope and Healing Conference, sharing his journey of resilience and his advocacy for youth experiencing homelessness.

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey District of Kiwanis held its Inaugural New Jersey Kiwanis Hope and Healing Conference on Thursday, November 6, at Georgian Court University. Developed through the New Jersey Kiwanis Youth Homelessness District Project, the conference brought together youth advocates, agency professionals, and community partners from 18 agencies across the state for a full day of learning, empowerment, and connection.

In the school year 2023-24, 17,315 students in New Jersey were identified as experiencing homelessness.

Endlightment, a program of The Children’s Home Society

The list of community partners included Anchor House, Avanzar, Avanzar – Dream Free, CHS, Collier Youth Services, Dream Free Program, Embrella, Georgian Court University, New Jersey Angels, New Jersey Youth Council, NJ DCF, NJ DCF Youth Council, NJ Kiwanis District of Kiwanis International, NJ Kiwanis Foundation, Oceans Harbor House, One Family One Fight, Inc., Plaid House Inc., Prevent Child Abuse NJ, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Str8up Employment Services/PFPC, The Children’s Home Society of NJ, The Pride Center of New Jersey, and Visions & Pathways.

Kiwanis leaders from across New Jersey gather at Georgian Court University during the inaugural Hope and Healing Conference, standing united in their commitment to supporting youth experiencing homelessness and strengthening community partnerships statewide.

The event featured Keynote Speaker Dashaan Jennings, whose powerful life story set the tone for a day centered on resilience and hope. Dashaan, from Newark, entered foster care at age four and spent his youth navigating New Jersey’s child welfare system until aging out at 21. Despite hardship, he found purpose in his pain, transforming wounds into wisdom. A Kean University graduate and current MPA candidate at Rutgers–Camden, he returned to the same group homes he once lived in, this time as a leader and advocate. He is the founder of STR8UP Employment Services, a DCF consultant, strategist, and devoted father of two. His story embodies resilience and transformation, proving that even broken beginnings can create powerful leaders and change-makers.

Michael Ellithorpe, New Jersey Kiwanis District Project Chair, expressed pride in the collaboration on display. “Our goal has always been to elevate the voices of young people facing housing instability and bring every corner of New Jersey’s support network together. This conference demonstrated what is possible when service organizations, educators, and advocates unite behind a shared mission.”

Attendees participated in workshop sessions and networking opportunities designed for transitionally housed youth, youth-homelessness agency staff, community partners, and Kiwanis members. The event underscored the statewide commitment to addressing youth homelessness through shared purpose and coordinated action.

Frank Cahill, Governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, highlighted the significance of the day. “This conference proved exactly what Kiwanis stands for — hope, action, and partnership. Seeing so many agencies, advocates, and young people in one room reminded us why we remain committed to this project. Youth experiencing homelessness deserve stability, opportunity, and community, and Kiwanis will continue to stand beside them every step of the way.”

To date, the New Jersey Kiwanis Youth Homelessness District Project has generated nearly $40,000 in donations and thousands of volunteer hours, directly supporting agencies serving youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability.

Emily Scharf, President of the New Jersey Kiwanis Foundation, praised the shared commitment that shaped the conference. “The Hope and Healing Conference was the culmination of years of work, collaboration, and compassion across New Jersey. Every attendee — from youth to agency leaders — played a part in creating a space of empowerment and healing. This is only the beginning of what we can accomplish together.”

Kiwanis extended its appreciation to Georgian Court University, guest speakers, sponsoring partners, and the many volunteers who made this inaugural event possible.

About the Kiwanis Youth Homelessness District Project

This multi-year initiative supports agencies throughout New Jersey that serve youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability. The project provides volunteer support, raises essential funds, and builds awareness to help youth thrive.

About Kiwanis

Kiwanis is an international service organization dedicated to serving children, young people, and communities worldwide. The New Jersey District of Kiwanis remains focused on youth-centered service, leadership development, and collaborative outreach to address local needs.

To find a local Kiwanis club in your area, visit joinnjkiwanis.org.

Hanover Officials Announce Deal Ending Extended Agency Stays at Two Motels

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Red Carpet Inn, 1255 Route 10, Cedar Knolls

HANOVER — Hanover Township and JSK Whippany, LLC, the owner of the Red-Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn, signed a Consent Agreement that halts the long-term placement of guests in the hotels through State, county, and local public agencies.

The Township Zoning Department issued the Notice of Violation that led to this Agreement after finding that hotel rooms were being used and occupied in violation of the Township zoning ordinance.

Agreement Halts Long-Term Hotel Placement
The Agreement states, “No guest stay or placement permitted hereunder shall be deemed or intended to establish legal residency in the Township of Hanover for school district attendance or any enrollment.”

Earlier this year, more than 30 families lived in the hotels long-term, raising significant concerns among residents.

Thomas “Ace” Gallagher spearheaded the Township Committee and Administration’s efforts to address these concerns and deliver a solution to this important issue.

Collaborative Response to Community Concerns
Mayor Gallagher emphasized, “We have had incredible support from Senator Pennachio and various State agencies to assist and work on finding homes for these families throughout the State of New Jersey.” State agencies advised town officials that the families in the Scottish Inn and Red Carpet Inn may be completely transitioned from the hotels and placed in other appropriate accommodations by the end of December.

“Notwithstanding the significant support from State officials to place families, the concern of Hanover Township was the backfilling by additional State, county, and local agencies that would be looking to contract and place more families in the hotels, which is not an appropriate long-term environment for these families. These placements also created a significant financial obligation on behalf of the Hanover Township School District and taxpayers of our community.” Mayor Gallagher went on to explain, “Addressing these concerns required preventing any additional extended placement of families in the hotels. This Agreement ensures that no additional families will be added to Hanover Township schools this year.”

Path Ahead for the Township
The Township of Hanover identified the property as a candidate for acquisition or, if necessary, eminent domain, and scheduled a public hearing for December 11, to take a final vote on the ordinance specifically relating to the Red Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn hotels.

Hanover Township extends its gratitude and acknowledges the vital support of the Governing Body and state agencies in achieving this outcome while ensuring families in transition are treated with dignity and care.

Mayor Gallagher concluded, “Many communities and families are struggling with this issue. I am extremely pleased and proud of Hanover Township’s effort and collaboration to be among the first in New Jersey to deliver real results on such sensitive and serious concerns.”

Hanover Officials Announce Deal Ending Extended Agency Stays at Two Motels

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Red Carpet Inn, 1255 Route 10, Cedar Knolls

HANOVER — Hanover Township and JSK Whippany, LLC, the owner of the Red-Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn, signed a Consent Agreement that halts the long-term placement of guests in the hotels through State, county, and local public agencies.

The Township Zoning Department issued the Notice of Violation that led to this Agreement after finding that hotel rooms were being used and occupied in violation of the Township zoning ordinance.

Agreement Halts Long-Term Hotel Placement
The Agreement states, “No guest stay or placement permitted hereunder shall be deemed or intended to establish legal residency in the Township of Hanover for school district attendance or any enrollment.”

Earlier this year, more than 30 families lived in the hotels long-term, raising significant concerns among residents.

Thomas “Ace” Gallagher spearheaded the Township Committee and Administration’s efforts to address these concerns and deliver a solution to this important issue.

Collaborative Response to Community Concerns
Mayor Gallagher emphasized, “We have had incredible support from Senator Pennachio and various State agencies to assist and work on finding homes for these families throughout the State of New Jersey.” State agencies advised town officials that the families in the Scottish Inn and Red Carpet Inn may be completely transitioned from the hotels and placed in other appropriate accommodations by the end of December.

“Notwithstanding the significant support from State officials to place families, the concern of Hanover Township was the backfilling by additional State, county, and local agencies that would be looking to contract and place more families in the hotels, which is not an appropriate long-term environment for these families. These placements also created a significant financial obligation on behalf of the Hanover Township School District and taxpayers of our community.” Mayor Gallagher went on to explain, “Addressing these concerns required preventing any additional extended placement of families in the hotels. This Agreement ensures that no additional families will be added to Hanover Township schools this year.”

Path Ahead for the Township
The Township of Hanover identified the property as a candidate for acquisition or, if necessary, eminent domain, and scheduled a public hearing for December 11, to take a final vote on the ordinance specifically relating to the Red Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn hotels.

Hanover Township extends its gratitude and acknowledges the vital support of the Governing Body and state agencies in achieving this outcome while ensuring families in transition are treated with dignity and care.

Mayor Gallagher concluded, “Many communities and families are struggling with this issue. I am extremely pleased and proud of Hanover Township’s effort and collaboration to be among the first in New Jersey to deliver real results on such sensitive and serious concerns.”

Frank Cahill, Governor of NJ District Kiwanis International, Delivers Winter Jackets to Dover Early Learning Center

By
Anikait Sota
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0
Valerie Kuglin, President of Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway, Frank Cahill, Governor NJ District Kiwanis International and Johanny Jimenez, LSW/Family Engagement Specialist

MORRIS COUNTY — With a warm gesture just in time for the colder months, Frank Cahill, Governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, visited the Dover Early Learning Center to deliver brand new winter jackets for students in need personally. The jackets were donated by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

Cahill, who also serves as an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, delivered the jackets as part of the district’s ongoing commitment to community service and childhood well-being. Surrounded by student artwork lining the school walls, he proudly presented a variety of colorful coats, helping ensure local children stay warm and ready to learn this winter season.

“This donation represents what Kiwanis is all about—supporting children and making a positive impact where it’s needed most,” said Cahill. “Every child deserves to be warm, safe, and confident in the classroom.”

The Dover Early Learning Center, which serves pre-K students from the local area, was selected for its outstanding work with young learners and its partnership with organizations that support families in need.

The donation aligns with Kiwanis International’s global mission to serve children through local projects focused on education, health, and essential needs.

For more information on how to support similar initiatives, visit www.kiwanis.org.

Morris County Health Officer Sworn In for Second Term as a State Association President

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Carlos Perez, Morris County Division of Public Health chief health officer, Stephanie Gorman, Morris County Division of Public Health chief health officer and president of the NJACCHO, and Deena Leary, Morris County administrator.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners congratulates Stephanie Gorman, a health officer in the Morris County Division of Public Health, on being sworn in for her second consecutive term as president of the New Jersey Association of County and City Health Officials (NJACCHO).

Gorman took the oath of office during the NJACCHO General Membership Meeting at the Atlantic City Convention Center, held in conjunction with the New Jersey League of Municipalities Conference, where Commissioner Douglas Cabana, liaison to the Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety, administered the oath. Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Commissioners Christine Myers and John Krickus, Sheriff James Gannon and Undersheriff Mark Spitzer also attended.

Commissioner Douglas Cabana administers the oath of office to Stephanie Gorman.

“We’re proud to have Stephanie representing Morris County again as NJACCHO president,” said Commissioner Cabana. “Her continued leadership at both the county and state levels reflects our commitment to public health and to advancing critical initiatives statewide.”

NJACCHO represents public health leaders from 104 health departments in New Jersey’s 21 counties and 565 municipalities. For more than 113 years, the association has supported community health by promoting wellness, preventing disease and protecting residents, visitors and workers across the state. Gorman has been a member of NJACCHO since 2014 and has served on its board of directors since 2018.

“Stephanie’s leadership has strengthened our local and state health systems. Her reappointment as NJACCHO president recognizes her achievements and her ability to guide New Jersey’s public health community through complex challenges,” said Carlos Perez, chief health officer in Morris County Division of Public Health.

Gorman described her past term as “one of the most challenging, unpredictable, exhausting, yet inspiring years of her career.” She noted that NJACCHO expanded key partnerships throughout the state, advanced 21C public health modernization efforts, protected essential grant funding and completed the state’s first comprehensive costing model, providing a critical foundation for understanding and investment in core public health services.

“Our voices are being heard, our work is being recognized and 21C is finally gaining momentum,” Gorman said, calling the association’s progress a reflection of “resilience, leadership and the unwavering commitment of local public health leaders.”

Looking ahead, she said her next term will be pivotal as New Jersey navigates another period of transition and prepares for major statewide responsibilities, including the 2026 World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary. These events, she noted, underscore the need for a strong, coordinated local public health system and the urgency of sustaining momentum in statewide preparedness and support for New Jersey’s governmental public health network.

“This is our moment to solidify the value of local public health,” said Gorman, reaffirming her commitment to advancing NJACCHO’s strategic goals and strengthening member representation and engagement.

Hanover Wind Symphony and Morris Music Men Present Free Holiday Concert

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Preparing for the upcoming “Holidays in Hanover” concert are Hanover Wind Symphony members Phil Hughes of Whippany, a tuba player and past president of the Hanover Wind Symphony; Gail Lalk of Morristown, who plays the French horn; and Marisa Raczynski of Stockholm, a bassoonist.

HANOVER — The Hanover Wind Symphony and the Morris Music Men will present a free holiday concert, Holidays in Hanover: Wassailing Through Hanover, at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 14. The concert will be held at Memorial Junior School, located at 61 Highland Avenue.

“Please join the Hanover Wind Symphony and the Morris Music Men as we go ‘wassailing’ through the early American village of Hanover,” said Matthew Paterno, a Parsippany resident and the musical director and conductor of the Hanover Wind Symphony. “Hear the music of the holidays as you might have heard it in the houses and on the street corners of our special town.”

The concert program will feature a mix of early American carols, beloved holiday favorites, and some surprises. Selections include:

  • “Joy to the World” — Traditional, arranged by William Silvester
  • “Celtic Carol” — Traditional, arranged by Robert W. Smith
  • “The First Noel” — Traditional, arranged by Yukiko Nishimura

The event is open to the public and suitable for all ages. No tickets are required.

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