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Whippany Presbyterian Church Hosting Friendsgiving Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

HANOVER — Whippany Presbyterian Church will host its annual Friendsgiving Spaghetti Dinner Mission Fundraiser on Sunday, November 23, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The dinner features all-you-can-eat spaghetti with a choice of homemade meat or marinara sauce, along with salad, rolls, beverages, and dessert. Guests are encouraged to bring friends and enjoy a warm community gathering ahead of the holiday season.

Prices

  • Adults: $12.00
  • Children/Seniors: $8.00

Advance reservations can be made at www.youthfpcwhippany.org, and tickets may also be purchased during fellowship hour.

Attendees are also reminded: Don’t forget to order your sauce for the holidays!

Morris County Division of Mosquito Control Hiring Inspector Trainee

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Department of Public Works, Division of Mosquito Control, is currently accepting applications for the position of Inspector Trainee, Mosquito Extermination.

This entry-level role offers a unique opportunity to serve the public by helping reduce mosquito populations and associated health risks. Under supervision, the trainee will learn to identify and monitor mosquito breeding habitats—such as ditches, swamps, and areas with stagnant water—and apply appropriate chemical or biological controls to help manage infestations.

Responsibilities include:

  • Performing field inspections in a variety of outdoor environments.
  • Learning to apply mosquito control treatments safely and effectively.
  • Responding to service calls and inquiries from Morris County residents.

Qualifications:
Applicants must possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license. Candidates should be prepared to work outdoors in all weather conditions and must be capable of reading maps, keeping detailed records, and communicating clearly with the public. Successful applicants must become licensed Pesticide Applicators.

Location:
Morris County Public Works – Mosquito Control Division
Highview Avenue, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in public health, environmental work, or field science to launch a meaningful career.

Hanover Recreation Hosts Indoor Winter Wonderland Celebration

By
Frank Cahill
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HANOVER — The Township of Hanover Recreation Department will kick off the holiday season with its annual Winter Wonderland celebration on Friday, December 12, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Hanover Township Community Center, 15 North Jefferson Road in Whippany.

This year’s event will be held entirely indoors, transforming the Community Center into a festive Winter Wonderland Village complete with cheerful holiday décor, themed craft stations, and warm hot chocolate courtesy of Hanover Township PBA Local 128.

Children are encouraged to create take-home holiday crafts and bring their Letters for Santa. Parents are asked to ensure each letter includes the child’s full name and mailing address so Santa can send a response.

Adding to the excitement, a very special guest will make an appearance at 7:00 p.m., giving families even more holiday magic to look forward to. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy all activities before the guest’s arrival.

To support local families during the holiday season, the Recreation Department will be collecting new, unwrapped toys, along with canned foods and other non-perishable items. Donations are welcomed but not required.

For those who want to experience the decorations at a more relaxed pace, the Winter Wonderland Village will remain open for walk-through viewing over the weekend:

• Saturday, December 13: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

• Sunday, December 14: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

This cozy indoor celebration offers residents of all ages an enjoyable way to embrace the holiday spirit close to home.

Gov.-Elect Mikie Sherrill to Resign CD11 Seat on November 20

By
Frank Cahill
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Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill

MORRIS COUNTY — Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill announced that she will resign her seat representing New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District effective 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, November 20.

Sherrill, who has represented CD11 since 2019, won the November 4 gubernatorial election and will be sworn in as New Jersey’s next governor on January 20, 2026. Her resignation initiates the formal vacancy process for one of the most closely watched congressional districts in the state.

A Major Transition for CD11

In her resignation letter, Sherrill said it has been an honor to serve the people of the 11th District. Throughout her tenure, she focused heavily on infrastructure improvements, flood-mitigation funding, transportation needs, and federal support for North Jersey communities.

Once her resignation takes effect, the seat becomes officially vacant. Under New Jersey law, the sitting governor must issue a writ of election to schedule a special primary and special general election to fill the remainder of her term.

Candidates Already Lining Up

Several candidates have already announced their campaigns to succeed Sherrill.

Democrats:

  • John Bartlett, Passaic County Commissioner and voting-rights attorney, who entered the race with strong early fundraising.
  • Jeff Grayzel, Morris Township Deputy Mayor.
  • Cammie Croft, nonprofit executive and former federal official.
  • Tom Malinowski, former U.S. Congressman.
  • Brendan Gill, Essex County Commissioner.

Republicans:

  • Joe Hathaway, Mayor of Randolph.

The growing lineup underscores the importance of CD11 and the high stakes surrounding the upcoming special election.

Impact on the District

The 11th District covers communities across Morris, Passaic, and Essex counties, making it a significant voice for North Jersey in Washington. With ongoing concerns such as transit funding, infrastructure upgrades, flood control, and regional federal support, residents will be watching closely to see how the transition impacts local priorities.

The special election to fill the seat will play a major role in shaping the future direction of the district.

Morris County Commissioners Honor Kiwanis Governor Frank Cahill

By
Anikait Sota
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Commissioners John Krickus and Deborah Smith, Frank Cahill, Director Tayfun Selen, Commissioners Christine Myers and Thomas Mastrangelo, and Deputy Director Stephen Shaw.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners presented a framed Resolution of Honor on Monday, November 17, to Frank Cahill in recognition of his decades of community service and his recent assumption of the role of governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International.

Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen led the presentation during the board’s public meeting, joined by Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Commissioners Christine Myers, John Krickus, Deborah Smith and Thomas Mastrangelo.

“Frank has dedicated much of his life to serving others, especially children and families. His leadership in Kiwanis and his work in Parsippany and Morris County reflect the very best of public service. We are proud to recognize his achievements and his continued commitment to our community,” said Director Selen.

Cahill, a Parsippany resident, has been a member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany since 1991 and has held numerous leadership roles during the past 34 years. He began his term as district governor on Oct. 1, 2025, following his election as governor-elect for the 2024–2025 service year.

Through his involvement with Kiwanis, he has helped establish four new clubs in Morris County, with a fifth planned for January 2026, and is working to expand clubs across New Jersey. He has recruited nearly 130 new members — the most of any Kiwanian in the state — and has strengthened Kiwanis’ sponsored youth programs such as Key Club and Circle K, which engage students in service, leadership, and civic projects, including food drives, assisting senior citizens, and supporting local charities.

“My passion is helping kids. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we delivered food to children who needed it. It was amazing how many people we were able to reach, and clubs grew from that work,” Cahill said.  “My mission this year is focused on addressing youth homelessness throughout New Jersey.”

Cahill is also the publisher of Parsippany Focus and Morris Focus and is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Advisory Board. Among his many volunteer efforts, he has served meals to the community at Homeless Solutions and fostered dogs through Eleventh Hour Rescue and Furver Home Dog Rescue, both based in Randolph.

The Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted the resolution of honor, acknowledging Cahill’s service to Parsippany, Morris County and the State of New Jersey with Kiwanis International, and congratulates him on his election as governor for the 2025–2026 term.

Kiwanis International is a global volunteer organization dedicated to improving the lives of children. Clubs worldwide complete more than 1 million service projects each year, supporting schools, families, and communities while fostering leadership among young people.

Towns That Build, Win Big: New Jersey Links Affordable Housing to Grant Funding

By
Frank Cahill
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New Jersey lawmakers discuss new legislation that rewards towns complying with affordable housing mandates by prioritizing them for state economic development grants.

MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey lawmakers are sending a clear message to municipalities across the state: fulfill your affordable housing obligations—or risk losing out on state economic funding.

A newly enacted law, approved as P.L.2025, c.142, prioritizes state grants and financial assistance for municipalities that actively comply with affordable housing requirements. The legislation, sponsored as Assembly Bill No. 2390, was advanced by the Assembly Housing Committee and ties municipal housing compliance directly to valuable economic incentives.

Under this new law, the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) are required to give priority consideration to towns meeting their affordable housing commitments when awarding competitive grants or financial support. This includes programs such as the Main Street New Jersey Program and the Neighborhood Preservation Program.

Importantly, the law does not affect state funding that is already intended to help towns meet their affordable housing quotas. Instead, it focuses on rewarding municipalities that have already demonstrated good-faith compliance.

For the first five years of any new housing cycle, DCA will assess each municipality’s standing based on several factors, including:

  • History of builder’s remedy lawsuits
  • Previous affordable housing settlements
  • Percentage of obligation already met
  • Other relevant indicators of compliance

The legislation, pre-filed at the start of the 2024–2025 session, underwent a technical review and was updated before advancing. Legislators emphasized that the aim is to reward towns that act responsibly—those making measurable efforts to ensure housing affordability—with preferred access to state-backed economic development funding.

Key Takeaways:

  • Towns that meet affordable housing requirements will be prioritized for select state grants.
  • DCA and EDA will apply a compliance test before awarding economic aid.
  • Grants helping municipalities meet their affordable housing obligations are not affected.

With this new law in place, municipalities that follow the rules on housing now gain a competitive edge in the race for economic development dollars.

Three Arrested in Takedown of Alleged Narcotics Network in Hanover Township and Parsippany

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Prosecutor

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Lincoln Park Police Chief John Cifelli confirmed an arrest following a narcotics investigation that yielded the seizure of various controlled dangerous substances (CDS) and firearms, which resulted in the arrest of three defendants.

On November 13, 2025, investigators carried out the execution of search warrants at a residence in Cedar Knolls in Hanover Township, a residence in Parsippany-Troy Hills, four vehicles, and a storage unit in Parsippany-Troy Hills.

A search of the Cedar Knolls residence resulted in the seizure of approximately 24 grams of suspected ketamine, approximately 10 grams of suspected cocaine, approximately 20 pills of suspected MDMA, over 6 ounces of suspected marijuana, and drug paraphernalia indicative of CDS distribution, as well as nearly $18,000 in U.S. Currency, which are alleged to be CDS proceeds. A search conducted of a Nissan Altima known to be associated with Jeremy Mayes yielded the seizure of a Glock 43 handgun, which was confirmed stolen out of Mississippi.

A search of the Parsippany-Troy Hills residence resulted in the seizure of approximately 64 grams of suspected cocaine, a loaded revolver, and drug paraphernalia indicative of CDS distribution.

It is alleged that Jeremy Mayes, Casey Young, and Adrian Schwerdt-Oneil operated a CDS distribution network in Morris County between September 1, 2025, through November 13, 2025. Mayes and Young were detained by officers on November 13, as Young arrived at the Cedar Knolls residence driving a Madison DPW truck, while being employed by the town of Madison.

During the arrest of Young, he was found to be in possession of cards identifying a storage unit in Parsippany. Following the approval of a subsequent search warrant, the storage unit was searched, which yielded a loaded Glock 31 handgun, approximately 5 tabs of suspected LSD, two bags of suspected psilocybin mushrooms, numerous pills, and drug distribution paraphernalia including a drug ledger.

The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit Task Force carried out this investigation. The task force is comprised of members of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Morristown Police Department, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, and Boonton Police Department. Additionally, the Morris County Prosecutors Office Special Operations Division, Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff’s Office K9, Lincoln Park Police, Denville Police, Hanover Police, Morristown Police and Madison Police also assisted heavily with this investigation. The investigation remains ongoing.

The following individuals were arrested and charged as a result of this investigation to date:

Casey J. Young, 32, of Morris Plains was charged with the following:

• Possession of LSD in a quantity of 100 milligrams or more with intent to distribute, a crime of the first degree, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-5A(1)B(6)

• Possession of Cocaine in the quantity of one-half ounce or more with intent to distribute, a crime of the second degree, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-5A(1)B(2)

• Conspiracy to Distribute CDS, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:5-2A(1)/2C:35-5A(1)B(2)

• Possession of a Cocaine, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10A(1)

• Two counts of Possession of a Firearm During the Course of a CDS offense, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:39-4.1A

• Possession of a Handgun without a Permit, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:39-5B(1)

• Possession of a Psilocybin Mushrooms, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10A(1)

• Possession of LSD, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10A(1)

• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute, a crime of the fourth degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:36-3

Jeremy C. Mayes, age 35, of Cedar Knolls, was charged with the following:

• Possession of a Firearm During the Course of a CDS offense, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:39-4.1A

• Conspiracy to Distribute CDS, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:5-2A(1)/2C:35-5A(1)B(2)

• Certain Persons Not to Possess a Firearm, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:39-7(B)(1)

• Receiving Stolen Property, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:20-7

• Possession of less than one-half ounce of Cocaine with intent to distribute, a crime of the third degree, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-5A(1)B(3)

• Possession of Ketamine with intent to distribute, a crime of the third degree, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-5A(1)B(13)

• Possession of less than one-half ounce of MDMA with intent to distribute, a crime of the third degree, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-5A(1)B(3)

• Possession of a Handgun without a Permit, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:39-5B(1)

• Possession of Cocaine, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10A(1)

• Possession of Ketamine, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10A(1)

• Possession of MDMA, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10A(1)

• Money Laundering, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:21-25A

• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute, a crime of the fourth degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:36-3

Adrian D. Schwerdt-O’Neil, 34, of Parsippany-Troy Hills, was charged with the following:

• Possession of Cocaine in a quantity of one-half ounce or more with intent to distribute, a crime of the second degree, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-5A(1)B(2)

• Conspiracy to Distribute CDS, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:5-2A(1)/2C:35-5A(1)B(2)

• Possession of a Cocaine, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:35-10A(1)

• Possession of a Firearm During the Course of a CDS offense, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:39-4.1A

• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute, a crime of the fourth degree in violation of N.J.S. 2C:36-3

Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, Mayes and Young remain detained in the Morris County Jail pending a motion for pretrial detention. Schwerdt-O’Neil was released under the conditions of Pre-Trial Monitoring Level II.

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.

Fire Damages Historic Ringling Manor in Oak Ridge

By
Frank Cahill
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Ringling Manor

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — A fire caused significant damage to the historic Ringling Manor early Friday morning, according to a press release issued by Captain Robert Bush of the Jefferson Township Police Department.

At approximately 7:12 a.m. on Friday, November 14, 2025, Jefferson Township Police responded to 2 Manor Drive in Oak Ridge, also known as the Ringling Manor, after receiving a report of heavy smoke and a possible structure fire. Officers arriving on scene observed smoke coming from the top of the building. No occupants were inside at the time.

Fire crews from multiple departments responded quickly, extinguished the flames, and ventilated the structure. The building sustained heavy fire and smoke damage.
Built in 1913 by Alfred T. Ringling of the Ringling Brothers Circus, the manor is a well-known historic landmark in the community.

The Jefferson Township Police Department extended its appreciation to the many agencies that assisted, including:

  • Jefferson Twp. Fire Co. #1 and #2
  • Milton First Aid Squad
  • Jefferson Twp. Office of Emergency Management
  • Hardyston Twp. Fire Dept.
  • Netcong Fire Dept.
  • Picatinny Arsenal Fire Dept.
  • Boonton Fire Dept.
  • West Milford Fire Dept.
  • Mt. Arlington Fire Dept.
  • Morris County Fire Inspector

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Sgt. Michael Ondish of the Jefferson Township Police Department at 973-208-6153 or [email protected].

Citizens with information about crimes or suspicious activity may call Morris County Crime Stoppers at (973) COP-CALL. Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.

Holiday Candlelight Remembrance Program to Offer Comfort and Reflection

By
Frank Cahill
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Senator Pennacchio urged the legislature to act on behalf of more than 6,700 elderly nursing home residents who lost their lives to COVID-19 and create a Senate Select Committee to review the State’s response to the pandemic.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Dangler Family is inviting the community to join them for their Annual Holiday Candlelight Remembrance Program on Tuesday, December 9, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Madison Hotel (Victorian Room), 1 Convent Road, Morristown.

This long-standing tradition provides a meaningful opportunity for families to honor and remember loved ones during the holiday season. The Dangler Family notes that their wish is to include these memories in a special way and to remind the community that no one is alone as they navigate this time of year.

The program will feature music, readings, and a candle-lighting ceremony. Attendees are encouraged to bring a framed photo or piece of memorabilia of their loved one to display during the program. All items will be returned at the conclusion of the evening.

Guests are welcome, and families are asked to include the number of attendees when they R.S.V.P. to ensure appropriate seating. Light refreshments will be served following the ceremony.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, December 9

Time: 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Location: The Madison Hotel (Victorian Room), 1 Convent Road, Morristown, NJ 07960

R.S.V.P. by December 2

973-539-3300 (Morris Plains)

973-377-3232 (Madison)

[email protected]

For additional information, contact Christine Dangler at 973-377-3232 or visit their website.

Annual Cedar Knolls Tree Lighting to Brighten Hanover

By
Frank Cahill
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0

HANOVER — The Cedar Knolls Fire Department will host its annual Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 29, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The festive community event will be held at the firehouse, located at 82 Ridgedale Avenue, Cedar Knolls. Families are invited to attend and enjoy an evening of holiday cheer as the department ushers in the season with lights, music, and community spirit.

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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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