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Clarice Lee Selected for 2026 ACDA Eastern Middle School Gospel Honor Choir

By
Frank Cahill
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Clarice Lee

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Clarice Lee, a seventh-grader at Memorial Junior School (MJS) in Whippany, was selected to participate in the 2026 Eastern Middle School Gospel Honor Choir hosted by the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA).

Clarice was one of more than 200 middle school students chosen through a competitive audition process to perform in this prestigious regional honor ensemble. Selected singers from across the Eastern United States gathered for rehearsals from February 25–28, 2026, culminating in a featured performance at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium (The VETS) in Rhode Island.

The honor choir was conducted by Robert Gibson, a nationally recognized choral conductor known for his leadership in gospel and honor choir settings.

Clarice is also a member of the Hwa-Yin Youth Chorale, an esteemed choir with a long history of nurturing young vocalists under the leadership of Ms. Shinwen Lin. Her participation in this distinguished honor choir demonstrates her dedication, talent, and continued growth as a young musician, bringing pride to her school and the Whippany community.

Jefferson Schools Face $4.8M Shortfall as Dunn Pushes Emergency Aid

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township High School

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson School District faces a potentially significant deficit due to complications surrounding the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act and its long-term impact on ratables and state funding allocations the district has received in recent years.

New legislation has been introduced in the New Jersey General Assembly that aims to offset the Jefferson Township School District’s projected $4.8 million shortfall for the 2026–27 school year.

Aura Dunn

Bill A4456, sponsored by Aura Dunn (R-25), would make a supplemental appropriation of $4.8 million to provide additional operational aid to Jefferson Township Public Schools.

“It’s a complicated issue,” Dunn said. “The good news is, the attention is there.”

Dunn recently met with the Jefferson High School student council to hear firsthand how potential cuts could affect programs, staffing, and student opportunities.

“I got to hear their view of the harm that this is going to do,” Dunn said. “They motivated me.”

In addition to A4456, Dunn also introduced ACR126, which expresses the Legislature’s intent that the School Funding Reform Act of 2008 be revised to stabilize reductions in State aid to districts experiencing funding volatility.

“We all need to keep fighting,” Mayor Eric Wilsusen said, underscoring the importance of sustained involvement as the State considers potential changes to the funding formula.

Both measures remain in the early stages of the legislative process, with no formal votes taken. However, Dunn expressed cautious optimism.

“I think there are a lot of things working in our favor,” she said. “Sometimes in the political world you feel like it takes forever, but I do feel we are at a moment — there is a breakthrough here.”

Mia Zirpoli Named to Dean’s List at The University of Alabama

By
Frank Cahill
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Mia Zirpoli, a 2024 graduate of Hanover Park High School

FLORHAM PARK — A total of 15,388 students enrolled during the Fall 2025 semester at The University of Alabama earned academic honors, being named either to the Dean’s List or the President’s List.

Students named to the Dean’s List achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, while those earning a perfect 4.0 GPA were recognized on the President’s List.

Among the honorees is Mia Zirpoli,a graduate of Hanover Park High School’s Class of 2024, who was named to the Dean’s List for her outstanding academic achievement.

The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state’s flagship university. With more than 200 degree programs across 12 colleges and schools, UA serves as a leader in teaching, research, and service. The university supports more than 30 research centers and continues to drive innovation and economic growth both in Alabama and beyond.

Congratulations to Mia on this impressive accomplishment.

Letter to the Editor: Jefferson Parent Urges State Leaders to Protect Schools Amid $4.8 Million Budget Shortfall

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Letter to the editor
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Dear Editor:

As a proud Jefferson Township parent of a graduate, I feel compelled to speak out about the proposed cuts facing the Jefferson Township Public Schools.

My daughter graduated from Jefferson Township High School, and the education she received shaped her future in ways that go far beyond textbooks and test scores. She was supported by dedicated teachers, strong extracurricular programs, and a school community that truly cared about its students. Those experiences helped build her confidence, leadership skills, and sense of belonging.

Hearing about a potential $4.8 million shortfall is deeply concerning. Budget cuts aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet — they translate into fewer programs, larger class sizes, and lost opportunities for the next generation of students who deserve the same support my daughter received.

Our schools are the heart of this community. Families move here because of them. Property values depend on them. Most importantly, our children’s futures depend on them.

I urge our state leaders to recognize the unique challenges Jefferson faces and work toward a fair solution that protects students and preserves the quality of education that has long defined our district.

Sincerely,

A Concerned Jefferson Parent

Road Rage Incident Leads to Arrest at Route 10 Exxon

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

DENVILLE — A Philadelphia man was arrested following a road rage incident that escalated into a physical altercation at an Exxon gas station on Route 10 West, according to Denville Police.

Police responded at approximately to 3144 Route 10 West on February 26, 2026, after receiving a report of two males actively fighting in the parking lot, according to a Public Information Release issued by the Denville Township Police Department  .

Officers arrived and identified both individuals involved in the incident. An investigation determined the altercation stemmed from a road rage encounter.

Authorities allege that one of the drivers, Matthew Torres, 33, of Philadelphia, PA, attempted to enter the victim’s vehicle and began assaulting him. The victim defended himself by deploying pepper spray but was struck multiple times during the confrontation, police said  .

Torres was charged with Disorderly Conduct (2C:33-2). He was placed under arrest and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing before being released pending a mandatory court appearance.

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.

Newark Woman Arrested on Multiple Warrants Following Route 10 Traffic Stop

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Denville Police conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 10 West on Friday, February 21, 2026, for an equipment violation, according to an official Public Information Release  .

During the stop, officers determined that a passenger in the vehicle, identified as Catherine McClish, 39, of Newark, had multiple active Automated Complaint System (ACS) warrants for her arrest.

Authorities reported the following warrants:

• $550 warrant out of Elizabeth

• $750 warrant out of Newark

• $2,500 warrant out of Hillside

McClish was placed under arrest and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing. She was charged with failure to wear a seatbelt (39:3-76.2f) in addition to the outstanding warrants.

After processing, McClish was released pending future mandatory court appearances.

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.

Rotary Volunteers Rally for Massive Hunger Relief Event

By
Frank Cahill
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The Madison High School Interact Club won the team challenge during the End Hunger food packing event at Grace Episcopal Church in Madison Monday, March 10, 2025. The club packed 16 boxes of oatmeal in one hour, beating five other teams. In back from left are Owen Nowak, Noah Hsu, Cloe Flores, Marco Tutela, Julie Fu, Charlotte Huang, Nolan Flanagan, and Madison Rotarian Doug Willis. In front from left are Avery Ng, Helena Mattia, Vivienne Jiang, Brynn Byam and Chloe English.

MADISON — Three area Rotary clubs will join forces to package 60,000 meals during the End Hunger 3.6 Community Food Packaging Event from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, at Grace Episcopal Church in Madison.

The Madison Rotary Club, Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Club and Mental Health Advocates Rotary Club will host volunteers at the church, where participants will assemble oatmeal meals for distribution to local food pantries serving individuals and families in need.

The event kicks off at 9:00 a.m. with a one-hour team challenge, as volunteer groups compete to pack the most meals. Additional volunteer shifts begin at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. No prior experience is required.

Organizers say the effort addresses ongoing food insecurity in the region while offering residents a hands-on service opportunity.

Since 2017, the participating Rotary clubs have packaged more than 700,000 meals as part of their hunger-relief initiatives. The End Hunger 3.6 event continues that mission through large-scale volunteer engagement.

Financial donations are also being accepted to support the program and future hunger relief projects. Donations may be mailed to the Madison Rotary, P.O. Box 211, Madison, N.J., 07940.

Volunteer registration is available at madisonrotarynj.org. Community members may also assist with event setup on Friday evening.

Fulton Financial Corporation to Acquire Blue Foundry Bancorp in $243 Million All-Stock Transaction

By
Frank Cahill
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Blue Foundry Bank is located at 209 Ridgedale Avenue Florham Park

MORRIS COUNTY — Fulton Financial Corporation and Blue Foundry Bancorp have jointly announced that they have received all required regulatory approvals for their previously announced merger agreement, clearing a major hurdle toward finalizing the transaction.

Under the terms of the definitive agreement, first announced on November 24, 2025, Fulton will acquire Blue Foundry in an all-stock transaction. Each share of Blue Foundry common stock will be exchanged for 0.6500 shares of Fulton common stock.

Based on Fulton’s closing share price of $17.96 on November 21, 2025, the transaction is valued at approximately $243 million, or $11.67 per share of Blue Foundry common stock.

Regulatory approvals were granted by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. In addition, Blue Foundry’s stockholders overwhelmingly approved the transaction at a special meeting held on January 29.

“Joining forces with Fulton is an exciting step forward for our employees, customers and communities,” said James D. Nesci, President and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Foundry, when the transaction was announced. “This partnership allows us to preserve the local relationships and personalized service our customers value while gaining access to greater resources and providing more solutions and convenience to customers.”

Curtis J. Myers, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Fulton, also expressed optimism following the regulatory approvals.

“We are pleased to see such strong support from Blue Foundry stockholders and to have received the necessary regulatory approvals,” Myers said. “These milestones bring us one step closer to uniting our organizations and deepening our impact across New Jersey.”

The merger is expected to close on or around April 1, 2026, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the remaining customary closing conditions outlined in the definitive merger agreement.

Once completed, the transaction is expected to strengthen Fulton’s presence in New Jersey, combining Blue Foundry’s established community banking relationships with Fulton’s broader financial resources and expanded product offerings. The combined organization aims to enhance customer convenience while maintaining the community-focused approach that both institutions have emphasized.

The completion of this merger marks a significant development in New Jersey’s banking landscape, positioning the combined company for continued growth and expanded service throughout the region.

In Morris County, Fulton Bank currently operates branches in Rockaway and Netcong, strengthening its footprint in the western portion of the county. Blue Foundry Bank maintains locations in Florham Park, Montville (Towaco), and Lincoln Park within Morris County, along with additional branches in Chatham, Clifton, Dunellen, Glen Ridge, Glen Rock, Hackensack, Lyndhurst, Mahwah, Rochelle Park, Union, and Wyckoff. The combined network will significantly expand Fulton’s presence across Northern New Jersey while preserving Blue Foundry’s established community banking relationships.

Jefferson Superintendent and Mayor Travel to Trenton to Advocate for School Funding Reform

By
Frank Cahill
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Mayor Eric Wilsusen and Superintendent Jeanne Howe traveled to Trenton to advocate for fair school funding during a hearing before the Assembly Education Committee. Although they were not called to testify, the pair submitted written remarks outlining Jefferson Township’s concerns regarding the Highlands Act and the State’s school funding formula, while continuing to push for relief on behalf of local students and taxpayers.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Superintendent Jeanne Howe and Mayor Eric Wilsusen traveled to Trenton early this week to advocate on behalf of Jefferson Township Public Schools during a hearing before the Assembly Education Committee.

The committee convened to hear testimony regarding reports of school budget deficits in several districts across New Jersey and to explore what State policymakers should do to correct or prevent similar situations moving forward.

Although Jefferson officials were not called to speak during the public testimony portion of the hearing, they submitted written remarks detailing the township’s concerns. Local leaders emphasized that Jefferson’s financial challenges are not the result of mismanagement. Instead, they pointed to long-standing structural issues related to the Highlands Act and inequities within the State’s school funding formula.

Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia of the 24th Legislative District acknowledged Jefferson’s situation during the hearing, bringing attention to the unique pressures facing the township and neighboring Highlands communities.

Following the session, Howe and Wilsusen met with several committee members, who indicated they were fully aware of Jefferson’s concerns. Legislators noted they had received numerous emails and communications from Jefferson residents regarding the impact of school funding reductions and budget constraints.

Township officials expressed appreciation for the strong community advocacy effort and encouraged residents to continue engaging with State leaders as discussions on school funding reform continue.

“We all need to keep fighting,” Mayor Eric Wilsusen said, underscoring the importance of sustained involvement as the State considers potential changes to the funding formula.

Jefferson Township officials said they will remain actively engaged in Trenton as conversations progress at the State level.

East Hanover Recreation Department Now Hiring for 2026 Summer Positions

By
Frank Cahill
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0

EAST HANOVER — The East Hanover Recreation Department is now accepting applications for a variety of seasonal summer positions for 2026. Residents looking for a fun, active, and rewarding summer job are encouraged to apply.

Available positions include:

  • Summer Playground Counselors
  • Junior Counselors
  • Pool Lifeguards
  • Pool Gate Guards

These roles offer an opportunity to gain valuable work experience, build leadership skills, and make a positive impact in the community while enjoying the summer season.

The application deadline is March 2, 2026. Positions are limited and expected to fill quickly, so early application is strongly encouraged. Click here to view the application.

For additional information, contact the East Hanover Recreation Department at (973) 888-6085 or email [email protected].

Don’t miss the chance to be part of a great summer team serving the East Hanover community.

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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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