JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Residents are invited to start their Sunday morning with a warm breakfast while supporting a local youth program as the Lake Shawnee Swim Team hosts a Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser on Sunday, March 15.
The event will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Lake Shawnee Clubhouse, 4 West Shawnee Trail.
Guests can enjoy a classic breakfast menu featuring pancakes, sausage, juice, hot chocolate, and coffee. The event is open to the entire community and is designed as a relaxed gathering where neighbors can connect while supporting the swim team’s upcoming season.
Admission is $10.00 for adults and $7.00 for children, with all proceeds benefiting the Lake Shawnee Swim Team and helping fund equipment, team activities, and seasonal expenses.
Organizers say the event is meant to bring the community together in a simple but meaningful way.
“Eat pancakes. See neighbors. Support the swim team,” organizers shared. “It’s a pretty strong Sunday morning plan.”
Those interested in learning more or reserving a spot by clicking here.
The breakfast is expected to draw families and supporters from across the Lake Shawnee community for a morning of good food, conversation, and support for local youth athletics.
Trevor Swirsky, a band student at Jefferson Township High School
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Students and community members in Jefferson Township are raising awareness about school funding concerns through a new social media campaign known as the “Highlands Hold” challenge. The initiative highlights what organizers describe as the financial strain faced by school districts located in New Jersey’s Highlands region.
The campaign is built around a powerful visual message: one second represents 10,000 gallons of water supplied to New Jersey. Supporters are encouraged to hold a gallon jug of water while filming themselves and then challenge others to do the same, symbolizing the large amount of water resources that Highlands communities provide to the rest of the state each day.
Students involved in the campaign say the issue hits close to home because many school programs they value — including music, band, and other extracurricular activities — could be affected by ongoing funding challenges.
Senator Anthony Bucco with members of the community
“I cannot imagine life in school without band and other extracurricular activities that I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of throughout my schooling,” one student said in a video supporting the initiative. “Music is a huge part of my life and identity. I love my town and school. We have an amazing community of families and teachers.”
Students also praised their teachers, noting that educators continue to support and inspire them even while facing uncertainty about school resources.
“Our teachers continue to show up every day and inspire us to learn and give it our all, despite their own jobs being on the line,” the student said.
Supporters of the campaign argue that while the Highlands region supplies drinking water to a large portion of the state, local school districts face unique challenges because environmental protections limit development and the tax base that typically funds schools.
Organizers say approximately 70 percent of New Jersey residents rely on water that originates in the Highlands region, yet communities within the region face what advocates describe as a “Highlands Trap,” where strict environmental protections restrict economic growth while the state school funding formula does not fully account for those limitations.
Through the #HighlandsHold challenge, students, parents, and community members hope to draw attention to the issue and encourage state leaders to revisit the funding formula.
Participants are encouraged to post videos online holding a gallon of water for as long as possible and challenge friends to do the same. Each second represents the water contribution Highlands communities make to the state.
The campaign has gained traction on social media through hashtags including #HighlandsHold, #Falcons4FairFunding, #HighlandsImpactAidNow, #SaveOurSchools, #SaveHighlandsBand, #SaveHighlandsMusic, and #SaveHighlandsPerformingArts.
Students and supporters say the effort is about ensuring future generations continue to have access to the same educational opportunities they have enjoyed.
“Thank you to all the people who are standing strong with us,” organizers said in the campaign message. “Let’s make our voices heard.”
Dr. Mark of Whippany Chiropractic Life Center, located at 133 Whippany Road, showcases the practice’s new SoftWave TRT therapy technology—made possible with support from Unity Bank. Pictured with Dr. Mark is Carmen Cerreto, Sr., Vice President of Business Development at Unity Bank.
HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Whippany Chiropractic Life Center is expanding its treatment offerings with the introduction of SoftWave TRT therapy, an advanced regenerative treatment designed to help patients recover from pain and injury. Dr. Mark of Whippany Chiropractic Life Center, located at 133 Whippany Road in Whippany, recently invested in the latest SoftWave Tissue Regeneration Technology (TRT) equipment, bringing a cutting-edge therapy option to patients in Whippany and throughout Morris County.
The investment was made possible with support from Unity Bank, which partnered with the practice to help finance the new technology and support the continued growth of the local healthcare provider.
SoftWave TRT uses patented acoustic wave technology designed to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. The treatment is commonly used to address conditions such as joint pain, soft tissue injuries, inflammation, and chronic musculoskeletal conditions without surgery or medication.
“SoftWave technology represents the next step in non-invasive regenerative care,” said Dr. Mark. “Our goal is always to provide patients with the most advanced treatment options available to help them heal faster and return to the activities they enjoy.”
Unity Bank officials noted that supporting local businesses and healthcare providers remains an important part of their mission in the communities they serve.
By partnering with Whippany Chiropractic Life Center, the bank helped make it possible for the practice to expand its services while continuing to provide high-quality care to patients throughout the region.
The addition of SoftWave TRT therapy further positions Whippany Chiropractic Life Center as a destination for innovative chiropractic and regenerative treatment options in Morris County.
FLORHAM PARK — Pickleball players across Northern New Jersey will soon have a new destination to enjoy one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. Open Play Pickleball has announced the grand opening of its flagship indoor facility, scheduled for Saturday, March 28, at 8 Fernwood Road in Florham Park.
The new climate-controlled facility is designed to provide year-round access to the increasingly popular sport, eliminating the common challenge of finding available courts and consistent playing opportunities.
The expansive center will feature 14 professional-grade cushioned courts, allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy high-quality play regardless of weather conditions.
“Our mission is right in our name: we want to make it easy for people to just show up and play,” said Jeff Pzena, founder of Open Play Pickleball. “Whether you are a seasoned pro or picking up a paddle for the first time, we’ve built a community-focused environment where capacity is never an issue and the social aspect of the game is front and center.”
Features Designed for Players of All Levels
Open Play Pickleball aims to create a welcoming environment for beginners and experienced players alike. The facility will offer a variety of programming and flexible playing options, including:
Open Play Sessions: Scheduled every hour of every day.
Private Court Reservations: Players can book courts for their own groups.
Player-Share Pricing: Court costs can be split among players to keep indoor play affordable.
Skill-Based Play: Sessions designed for Advanced Beginner (2.5), Intermediate (3.0–3.5), and Advanced (4.0+) players.
Instruction and Coaching: “Pickleball 101” clinics, private coaching sessions, and DUPR-rated matches for competitive players.
The facility also aims to support the local pickleball community by providing court availability for independent instructors. Coaches will be able to host lessons during prime evening and weekend hours without the typical delays often experienced when trying to secure court space.
Founding Membership Opportunities
A limited number of Founding Memberships are currently available, offering early access and special benefits for players who want to become part of the facility from its earliest days.
The public is invited to visit the facility beginning March 28 to experience what organizers say will set a new standard for indoor pickleball in the region.
For more information, to book a court, or to secure a Founding Membership, visit openplaypickleball.com.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Chief Anthony Coppolella of the Netcong Borough Police Department confirmed that Shirl Moody, 61, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, and Brian Schwab, 47, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, have pled guilty in connection to a 2024 narcotics case out of Netcong.
On August 3, 2024, while on routine patrol, Patrolman Dominic Hink of the Netcong Borough Police Department determined a Chevrolet sedan driving on Route 183 North in Netcong had an expired registration, and a vehicle stop was conducted. A consent search of their vehicle was conducted, at which time, a plastic bag containing suspected cocaine was found. Additional investigation confirmed the substance to be cocaine, and Moody was determined to be Schwab’s drug dealer.
Both Schwab and Moody were placed under arrest and charged with First Degree Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance, in violation of NJSA 2C:35-5b(1); Second Degree Conspiracy, in violation of NJSA 2C:5-2a(1); and Third Degree Possession of a CDS, in violation of NJSA 2C:35-10a(1).
Subsequent investigation found evidence of drug distribution on Moody’s cellphone.
On August 4, 2025, Schwab pled guilty to Second Degree Conspiracy and Third Degree Possession of a CDS before Honorable Ralph E. Amirata, J.S.C. According to the plea agreement, the guilty pleas were in exchange for five (5) years New Jersey State Prison for the Conspiracy charge, concurrent to three (3) years New Jersey State Prison on the Possession charge subject to testifying against co-defendant Moody at trial.
On March 4, 2026, Moody pled guilty to an amended count of Second Degree Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine, in violation of NJSA 2C:35-5b(2).
Moody is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8, 2026. At sentencing, the State will recommend a sentence of eight (8) years New Jersey State Prison.
Schwab is scheduled to be sentenced on March 13, 2026.
Prosecutor Robert Carroll said, “This resolution was the result of excellent police work by members of the Netcong Borough Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit, with a special commendation to Patrolman Dominic Hink for his extensive efforts during this case. Morris County law enforcement remains committed to removing dangerous narcotics from our streets and bringing accountability to those who seek to endanger our community.”
The prosecution of this matter was handled by MCPO Special Operation’s Division Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Kelly.
MORRIS COUNTY — Homeless Solutions will celebrate its 26th Annual Dream Builders’ Bash on Friday, March 27 at a spectacular new venue, The Mansion at Mountain Lakes in Mountain Lakes.
The ‘Bash’ is the non-profit’s largest yearly fundraiser supporting the shelter programs and services HSI offers for people experiencing homelessness and housing instability in Morris County, helping them regain their independence. This year’s event, “Building Dreams Together,” will bring the community together to celebrate extraordinary supporters and honor two remarkable awardees whose dedication to Homeless Solutions has made a lasting difference.
Mary LeBlanc will be recognized with HSI’s Dream Builder Award, having been a steadfast part of the Homeless Solutions family for over 30 years. Dedicating herself to the mission as a volunteer, leadership donor, Board Trustee and HSI’s interim CEO in 2024, she has helped guide the organization’s growth with her operational expertise and an unwavering commitment to those HSI serves.
Parsippany-based Liquid Church will also be honored with the Mary E. Van Kirk Volunteer Spirit Award for showing care and compassion through their volunteerism. They are true stewards of community connection and HSI is grateful for their partnership.
In 2025, Homeless Solutions provided support and services to over 500 people through their programs and affordable housing opportunities, made possible by the generous support of events like the Dream Builders’ Bash. Tickets are available for this impactful – and fun! – evening featuring this year’s award presentations, inspiring stories and tributes, dinner, dancing and exciting Live and Silent Auction bidding, all in support of HSI’s mission of empowering community members working towards self-sustainability.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of it. For tickets click here.
For questions or sponsorship opportunities, please contact HSI Events and Donor Relations Manager Julie Hess at [email protected]
About Homeless Solutions Our Philosophy is “A Hand UP, not a HandOUT.” Since 1983, Homeless Solutions has been helping people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in our community. As a private, nonprofit organization, we are unique in what we do. They offer more than just a healthy meal and a place to sleep. They create pathways for people to rebuild stability, achieve lasting housing and pursue their long-term goals.
What sets Homeless Solutions apart from others is our comprehensive continuum of housing options, including our Main Shelter, Transitional Housing Program (THP) for families, Warming Center for individuals living unsheltered during the winter, Mt. Kemble Home for senior women, Women’s Campus for single women, and 72 additional units of affordable rental housing, owned and operated by HSI, throughout Morris County. Each of our programs is designed to meet people where they are and support their journey to sustainable housing.
For more information on how you can support Homeless Solutions, click here.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — A Paterson man has been charged in connection with the theft of more than $2,000 worth of tequila from a liquor store in the Lake Hopatcong section of Jefferson Township, according to police.
Officers from the Jefferson Township Police Department responded to Chabons II Liquor Store on Espanong Road on Friday, January 10, at approximately 1:36 p.m., after receiving a report of a theft.
According to police, store employees reported that a man entered the store and asked for assistance purchasing several high-end bottles of tequila. The bottles were gathered and placed near the register while the customer continued speaking with the clerk.
The suspect then asked the clerk to retrieve a box of wine bottles from a rear storage area. While the clerk went to the back of the store, the suspect allegedly grabbed the tequila bottles from the counter and fled the store.
Authorities said the suspect left the area in a silver four-door sport utility vehicle, traveling in an unknown direction.
Detectives launched an investigation and issued an alert for the suspect and the vehicle. Through coordination with other law enforcement agencies, investigators later identified the suspect as Christopher Stamp, 36, of Paterson.
Stamp has been charged with third-degree theft. Police said the value of the stolen tequila bottles was approximately $2,100.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Jefferson Township Police Department at (973) 697-1300 or by email at [email protected] or [email protected]
Journalist and bestselling author Douglas Murray will speak at the Drew Forum speaker series on Monday, April 20, at 7:30 p.m. at the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown, where he will discuss global politics, Western culture, and his latest book, On Democracies and Death Cults: Israel and the Future of Civilization.
MORRIS CUNTY — The Drew Forum speaker series will present journalist and bestselling author Douglas Murray at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, April 20, at the Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South Street.
Murray is a bestselling author, journalist, and political commentator who has reported extensively from conflict zones, including Ukraine and Gaza. His most recent New York Times bestseller, “On Democracies and Death Cults: Israel and the Future of Civilization” (2025), draws on on-the-ground reporting from Israel, Gaza, and Lebanon to examine the current conflict and its broader historical context.
The book analyzes the aftermath of the October 7 attacks in Israel and includes accounts from victims, survivors, and those involved in the violence.
Murray is also the author of several other bestselling books. His 2022 book, “The War on the West,” which examines criticism of Western culture and history, became a No. 1 bestseller on both The New York Times and The Sunday Times lists. Other notable works include “The Madness of Crowds: Gender, Race and Identity” (2019) and “The Strange Death of Europe: Immigration, Identity and Islam” (2017), both Sunday Times bestsellers.
In addition to his books, Murray has been a contributor to The Spectator since 2000 and has served as an associate editor of the publication since 2012. He is also a columnist for The New York Post, The Free Press, The Sun, and The Telegraph, and contributes regularly to National Review and other media outlets.
A frequent public speaker and debater, Murray has appeared at venues including the British Parliament, the European Parliament, and the White House. His debate opponents have included Mehdi Hasan, Julian Assange, Rowan Williams, and Malcolm Gladwell.
Murray is also a frequent guest on major political and news programs, including the BBC’s “Newsnight,” “Daily Politics,” “This Week,” and “Question Time.” He has also appeared on widely followed podcasts such as “The Joe Rogan Experience” and “Waking Up with Sam Harris.”
Tickets for the event range from $47.00 to $79.00 and can be purchased by clicking here.
This event is generously sponsored by the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation.
As if our upcoming school budget nightmare was not a sufficient blast to our property taxes coming in June, at the budget hearing this evening in Town Hall the Mayor and Administrator are asking the Council to approve yet another 3.8 percent increase to our already bloated $35 million municipal budget.
Our budget has increased by 38 percent since 2019, the year this Mayor was elected. We have had property tax spike after property tax spike over the last seven years and they keep coming back to us for more and more.
During the hearing, the Mayor was asking for money to buy four more new police vehicles, which has become a theme for him every year since 2022. Needless to say, those vehicles are all outfitted by Atlantic Communications, and their labor costs are astronomical.
Look them up.
With this being the perfect time to curtail increases to property taxes due to the needs of our school’s sports programs, this administration just throws insult on top of injury for us.
Not only does this Township need a massive property tax cut, it needs new leadership — now.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — A Sparta man was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated following a single-vehicle crash on Route 15 North during the early morning hours of Saturday, February 15.
According to the Jefferson Township Police Department, patrol officers were dispatched at approximately 2:30 a.m. to the area of Route 15 North near the 3.5 mile marker for a report of a motor vehicle crash. Upon arrival, officers located a vehicle off the roadway after it had struck a guardrail.
Police identified the driver as Anthony Green, 21, of Sparta. Officers reported that Green had been traveling northbound when his vehicle drifted out of the right lane, left the roadway, crossed the median, and struck a guardrail, disabling the vehicle.
Green told officers he was driving home and declined medical attention at the scene. However, officers detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage while speaking with him and began conducting field sobriety tests. During those tests, officers observed several indicators of impairment.
Green was placed under arrest and transported to Jefferson Township Police Headquarters, where breath testing was conducted using an Alcotest device. The results showed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.157 percent, nearly twice the legal limit in New Jersey.
Police reported that Green stated he had consumed two glasses of Pinot Grigio earlier in the evening while in Paterson before driving.
Green was charged with:
Driving While Intoxicated (39:4-50)
Careless Driving (39:4-97)
Failure to Maintain Lane (39:4-96)
After processing, Green was released to a responsible party and transported to his residence in Sparta. He was issued summonses and is scheduled to appear in Jefferson Township 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.
