HANOVER — Hanover Township Mayor Thomas Ace Gallagher is inviting residents and friends to come out and enjoy an evening of great food, cold drinks, and live music at “Rock the Vote 2025,” on Saturday, October 18, at Double Tap Brewing, located at 50 Parsippany Road, Whippany. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the event kicking off at 8:00 p.m.
The celebration promises a night filled with fun, friendship, and fantastic entertainment featuring live music by the popular band 1Adam12. The group’s lineup includes Tom Ace Gallagher on drums, Dan Gallagher on guitar, Michael Stanzilis on bass, Michael Cifelli on keyboards, Carolyn Loh O’Hanlon, Thom O’Hanlon, and Mike Panciello on vocals.
The evening will also include special guest appearances by Neil Mastrobuono, Bill McKabb, Daryn Mount, and Ed Abelew, adding to the excitement of this community celebration.
Whether you come for the music, the company, or the craft brews, “Rock the Vote 2025” is an event you won’t want to miss.
Excelcare at Dover invites families to a fun-filled Trunk or Treat event on Wednesday, October 30, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 65 North Sussex Street, Dover. The community is welcome to enjoy decorated trunks, candy, costumes, and Halloween fun for all ages.
DOVER — Excelcare at Dover is inviting the community to a festive Trunk or Treat event on Wednesday, October 30, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 65 North Sussex Street, Dover.
Families can look forward to a “spook-tacular” evening filled with decorated trunks, candy, and plenty of Halloween fun. Children and adults alike are encouraged to come in costume, bring friends, and enjoy a safe and exciting trick-or-treating experience.
The event is free and open to the public, providing a great way for the community to come together, celebrate Halloween, and enjoy sweet treats in a safe, festive environment.
Mayor Dodd: “Claro Delivers on Both Fronts” as Dover Enhances Security
DOVER — The Town of Dover has announced a forward-thinking partnership with Claro Enterprise Solutions to enhance municipal security through the deployment of AI-powered video analytics across town facilities.
This new initiative integrates advanced surveillance capabilities—such as visible weapons detection, facial recognition, and intelligent monitoring—into Dover’s existing camera infrastructure. By utilizing the town’s current equipment, the program modernizes public safety systems without the high cost or disruption of replacing hardware.
The upgraded technology has been implemented in several key locations, including the Municipal Building, Public Library, Fire Department, and Police Headquarters. The system will support ongoing efforts in crime prevention and investigation, illegal dumping detection, traffic monitoring, and crowd management.
Town officials described the partnership as a strategic investment in both community safety and operational efficiency. The integration of AI analytics is a cornerstone of Dover’s broader initiative to adopt smart city technologies that enhance public services while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Your product is only as good as the service behind it,” said Mayor James Dodd. “Claro delivers on both fronts.”
Claro Enterprise Solutions, a subsidiary of América Móvil, is headquartered in Miramar, Florida, and provides IT and cybersecurity solutions worldwide. The company supplied both the software and technical expertise for Dover’s implementation.
According to Claro, the system’s scalable design will allow Dover to expand coverage in the future to include business districts and other high-traffic areas. Officials view this collaboration as a model of how public-private partnerships can bring innovative, data-driven solutions to smaller municipalities.
Claro’s AI Video Analytics Platform combines real-time detection with automated alerts, empowering local authorities to respond faster and improve situational awareness.
With this technology, Dover joins a growing number of municipalities across the nation adopting artificial intelligence to enhance public safety, reduce response times, and make the most of limited resources.
Le Bazar de Noël Returns to Madison with Holiday Cheer and Unique Gifts
MADISON — The Thursday Morning Club will host its annual Le Bazar de Noël holiday market on Friday, November 14, and Saturday, November 15 at the Madison Community House, located at 25 Cook Avenue, Madison.
The market will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday and from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free and open to the public.
Visitors will enjoy a wide array of unique vendors—featuring returning favorites and exciting new additions. Shoppers can browse an assortment of gourmet items, home décor, clothing, jewelry, handbags, toys, and gifts for children, teens, and pets. Sweet treats, snacks, and lunch options will also be available, with plenty of seating areas to relax and dine.
La Patisserie will offer delicious quiches, cakes, breads, cookies, and homemade pies—perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations. The Thursday Morning Club’s Catering Department will sell a variety of frozen homemade soups and meatballs. Guests can also participate in a gift basket raffle, a 50/50 raffle, and visit the member craft table featuring handmade items.
On Saturday afternoon, the Support Network of Madison will host a Winter Wonderland at the market, offering free children’s activities and a bounce house for families to enjoy.
Mayor Joe Jackson joins Mathnasium of Rockaway owners Nigam and Shilpa Mehta, along with members of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, local officials, and community guests, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the learning center’s grand opening. The event also marked Nigam Mehta’s induction into the Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway as the first new member under Governor Frank Cahill’s 2025–2026 term.
ROCKAWAY TOWNSHIP — Mathnasium of Rockaway celebrated its grand opening on Saturday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Rockaway Township Mayor Joe Jackson, Councilmen Jonathan Sackett and Emanuel Friedlander, local families, and members of New Jersey District Kiwanis International.
The celebration marked an exciting addition to the Rockaway business community, emphasizing education and youth development. Surrounded by bright balloons and a crowd of smiling guests, the ribbon was officially cut by Owner Nigam Mehta and his wife, Shilpa, symbolizing the start of their journey to help students gain confidence and achieve success through personalized math learning. Applause filled the room as the couple marked this special milestone alongside local leaders and Kiwanis members.
New Jersey District Kiwanis International Governor Frank Cahill presents a plaque to the owners of Mathnasium of Rockaway, Nigam and Shilpa Mehta, in recognition of their grand opening. Nigam Mehta was also honored as the first new Kiwanis member under Cahill’s gubernatorial term. Joining the celebration is Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway President Valerie Kuglin.
During the event, Owner Nigam Mehta was officially welcomed as the newest member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway, marking a meaningful moment for Frank Cahill, Governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, as Mehta became the first new member of Cahill’s gubernatorial term.
Cahill presented Mehta with a Kiwanis plaque on behalf of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International and proudly pinned him with the traditional Kiwanis membership pin, along with a second pin from Kiwanis International President Michael Mulhaul.
“Today is a perfect example of what happens when you Just Ask,” said Cahill, referencing his 2025–2026 District theme, Double Down with Frank. “By simply asking someone to join, we open the door to new opportunities for service, friendship, and community impact. Nigam’s passion for education makes him a perfect fit for Kiwanis.”
Also in attendance were Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway President Valerie Kuglin, Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover President Sergio Rodriguez, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilwoman Judy Hernandez (also a Kiwanis member), Raj Dichpally of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, and Division 7 Lt. Governor Nicolas Limanov, all showing support for Mehta’s dual celebration as a new business owner and new Kiwanian.
“We’re proud to welcome Mathnasium to Rockaway Township,” said Mayor Joe Jackson. “This is the kind of business that truly strengthens our community—one that helps children learn, grow, and succeed.”
Mehta expressed gratitude for the warm welcome from both the township and Kiwanis members.
“It’s an honor to join such a service-driven organization,” said Mehta. “Just as Mathnasium helps students unlock their potential, Kiwanis helps communities thrive. I’m excited to be part of both missions.”
Mathnasium offers personalized math instruction for students in grades K–12, helping them build confidence and a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. The instructors use the Mathnasium Method™, a proprietary teaching approach that combines personalized learning plans with mental, verbal, visual, tactile, and written techniques to build math knowledge level by level. This method ensures that each student receives tailored instruction that meets their unique needs and learning style.
By focusing on understanding fundamental concepts and developing critical thinking skills, Mathnasium helps students build a strong mathematical foundation.
Mathnasium of Rockaway is located at 343 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rockaway Township. They can be reached by calling (973) 577-8005 or by visiting mathnasium.com/rockaway.
Mayor James P. Dodd cuts the ribbon alongside Councilmembers Claudia Toro and Sergio Rodriguez to celebrate the one-year anniversary of C&G Automotive, owned by first-generation Colombian American entrepreneurs Oscar Castaño and Faisury Garzón. The event marked a milestone for the local business community and highlighted Dover’s continued support for small business growth.
DOVER — Mayor James P. Dodd, along with Councilmembers Claudia Toro and Sergio Rodriguez, recently joined the owners of C&G Automotive to celebrate the business’s first anniversary and ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Owned and operated by Oscar Castaño and Faisury Garzón, proud first-generation Colombian American entrepreneurs, C&G Automotive has quickly become a trusted name in the Dover community. The shop stands as a testament to perseverance, quality workmanship, and the spirit of small business ownership.
Since opening its doors, C&G Automotive has earned the loyalty of customers through its commitment to honesty, reliability, and exceptional service.
Mayor Dodd and the councilmembers praised the owners for their dedication and their contribution to Dover’s local economy.
“C&G Automotive is a great example of what hard work, family values, and community pride can accomplish,” said Mayor Dodd. “We’re proud to celebrate their success and look forward to many more years of growth.”
Address: 240 S Morris Street, Dover
Phone: (973) 876-7319
Web presence: Active on Facebook with service listings
Services offered: Oil changes, engine repair, brakes, suspension, A/C, and more
Congratulations to C & G Automotive on this milestone anniversary — Dover is proud to support your continued growth and success!
Cassiopeia, a dedicated member of Scouts BSA Troop 901, is undertaking an ambitious Eagle Scout project to support EDGE New Jersey
MORRIS COUNTY — As she prepares to enter her senior year of high school, Cassiopeia, a dedicated member of Scouts BSA Troop 901, is undertaking an ambitious Eagle Scout project to support EDGE New Jersey, a nonprofit organization that serves individuals living with HIV and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Reflecting on her years in scouting, Cassiopeia shared that the program has shaped her into the person she is today. “Throughout my scouting career, I’ve learned invaluable life skills such as organization, adaptability, and leadership,” she said. “Scouting has been a formative experience, and I couldn’t imagine being the woman I am today without it. However, not everyone receives the same opportunities I’ve been afforded—and that’s why I want to give back.”
Her Eagle Scout project focuses on improving EDGE NJ’s storage and resource system, which supports their public health, housing, mental health, and educational programs. The current storage space is small and disorganized, limiting the organization’s ability to efficiently manage supplies.
To help address this need, Cassiopeia plans to upgrade and nearly double the storage capacity by installing an archival rolling shelving system, reorganizing supplies, and creating a more functional and accessible workspace for EDGE NJ staff and volunteers.
“By improving the way materials are stored and accessed, EDGE NJ will be able to serve the community more effectively and continue their vital mission,” Cassiopeia explained.
Any excess funds raised for the project will be donated directly to EDGE New Jersey upon completion.
Cassiopeia’s project represents the spirit of scouting—leadership, service, and a commitment to improving the lives of others. Community members are encouraged to support her efforts and help ensure EDGE NJ continues to provide essential care and compassion to those in need.
JEFFERSON — The Academy for Environmental Science, located at Jefferson Township High School and part of the Morris County Vocational School District, was awarded the 2024 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award for Environmental Education. This award, one of nine, was presented at a Ceremony that honored the invaluable contributions of individual groups, organizations, and businesses that demonstrated initiative and commitment to protecting New Jersey’s air, land, water, open space, and fish and wildlife.
The Academy for Environmental Science’s efforts included cleanups at Lake Hopatcong and conducting air particulate studies during the Canadian wildfire smoke events that impacted New Jersey’s air quality. Heather Varner, the Lead Teacher at the Academy for Environmental Science, and Patricia Vandigriff, the Teacher of Environmental Literature, accepted the award.
Additionally, a student, Carolyn He in the Academy for Math, Science, and Engineering located at Morris Hills High School, received the James J. Florio Emerging Environmental Leader Award. This award is given to a young New Jersey resident who demonstrates exceptional leadership and outstanding accomplishments in environmental protection.
Carolyn has led A Sustainable Future – a program focused on sustainable paper consumption and reducing wasteful printing in schools. Since 2023, the program has helped more than 75 school districts and 200 students across the country reduce excessive printing. Additionally, A Sustainable Future has expanded to offer its services worldwide and hosted its first “Climate Convention” to engage students about environmental issues.
The Academy for Environmental Science provides students with the interdisciplinary study of natural processes and human impacts in the atmosphere, aquatic systems, and soils. The academy program of study links the principles of art, history, language arts, technology, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics to environmental concepts.
An academy program of the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) provides students in grades nine through twelve with in-depth instruction in a specific career pathway. Students attend the academy program instead of their local high school unless the academy program is housed in their local high school. Students take their academy class each year along with the NJ State Department of Education’s academic requirements. All academy students receive a high school diploma from the Morris County Vocational School District, regardless of their academy location. Each academy has a unique academy course sequence and opportunities for internships and earning college credit.
Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) offers a wide range of career and technical education programs that inspire and prepare students to succeed in today’s world and pursue tomorrow’s opportunities. Programs range from auto service and construction trades to healthcare sciences, global commerce, performing arts, and cybersecurity. The high school offers full-time academies and share-time programs on its Denville campus. In addition, through collaboration with local school districts and the County College of Morris, MCVSD offers full-time academies and share-time programs established at off-site satellite locations, for more information visit www.mcvts.org.
FLORHAM PARK — The Florham Park Police Department is once again inviting local families to enjoy a night of fun and community spirit at their annual Project Safe Night Out, taking place on Thursday, October 30, at the Florham Park Roller Rink, located at 192 Ridgedale Avenue.
This free event offers Florham Park residents in grades K–8 a fun-filled evening featuring roller skating, face painting, raffle prizes, and food. It’s designed to provide children with a safe, supervised, and exciting way to celebrate the Halloween season.
Event times are divided by grade levels:
Grades K–2: 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Grades 3–5: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Grades 6–8: 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Parents must complete an electronic permission slip available on the police department’s website. Forms must be submitted on or before October 28.
The flyer and registration link have also been shared through the Florham Park Public Schools Document Manager and are available online at www.florhamparknj.gov/CommunityEngagement for families whose children are not enrolled in the local public school system.
The Florham Park Police Department looks forward to another successful year of Project Safe Night Out — an event that continues to bring the community together for a night of fun, friendship, and safety.
FLORHAM PARK — Cheshire Home will host a fun-filled Bingo Night at Holy Family Church on Thursday, November 13, to benefit residents with spinal cord injuries as they continue on their journey to independence.
Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with Bingo play beginning at 7:00 p.m. and running until 9:00 p.m. Attendees can look forward to an evening of entertainment, prizes, and community spirit — all while supporting a great cause.
Guests are encouraged to bring friends and enjoy this lively night out, which will feature a variety of prizes including gift cards to restaurants and local stores, themed gift baskets, and more. Previous events have featured prizes such as an Apple Watch and a Yeti cooler, and organizers promise more exciting giveaways this time around.
A 50/50 raffle will also be held, giving players the chance to win a cash prize.
Bingo Happy Hour begins at 6:00 p.m., and guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages. (Those consuming alcoholic beverages must be 21 or older.) Light refreshments will also be available for purchase.
All proceeds from the event will go directly to support Cheshire Home’s programs and services that empower young adults with spinal cord injuries to achieve independence.
For questions or more information, contact Betsey Burgdorf at [email protected] or call (973) 966-1232 ext. 234.
