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Lakeland Hills YMCA Hosts Annual Turkey Trot in Mountain Lakes on Thanksgiving Morning

By
Frank Cahill
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MOUNTAIN LAKES — Thanksgiving morning in Mountain Lakes will start on a lively note as the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA hosts its annual Turkey Trot 5K run. Set for Thursday, November 28, at 9:00 a.m., this community event invites runners of all ages and abilities to lace up their sneakers and join the flock for a morning filled with fun, fitness, and the spirit of giving back. The race will kick off at Briarcliff Middle School, located at 93 Briarcliff Road in Mountain Lakes.

Participants are encouraged to bring their Thanksgiving cheer, whether they’re seasoned runners aiming for a personal record or families looking for a festive start to their holiday. Many choose to come in themed attire—turkey hats, feathers, and fall colors are common sights as participants race to “catch” the last slice of pumpkin pie! The event is also a fantastic way to work up an appetite before the Thanksgiving feast and to burn off a few calories in advance of the holiday indulgence.

The Turkey Trot has become a beloved tradition in the Mountain Lakes area, drawing people from neighboring towns and bringing together runners, walkers, and supporters in a community celebration. “It’s not just about the race,” says a representative from Lakeland Hills YMCA. “It’s about coming together as a community, supporting healthy habits, and kicking off Thanksgiving with some good old-fashioned fun.”

Alongside the 5K run, the event offers plenty of opportunities to connect with other participants, enjoy pre-race festivities, and take memorable photos. Volunteers and YMCA staff will be on hand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all, while families, friends, and local supporters cheer on participants from the sidelines.

To register, simply click here or visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com to secure a spot. The YMCA encourages early registration, as spots fill up quickly. Don’t forget to bring your turkey spirit, a pair of comfortable running shoes, and an appetite for fun!

Whether you’re running for a personal goal, looking for a fun outing with family and friends, or aiming to jump-start your Thanksgiving with a healthy activity, the Mountain Lakes Turkey Trot promises a memorable, feather-filled event. So, don’t miss out—join the flock, register today, and get ready for a Thanksgiving morning full of joy and community spirit!





Attend “Data Under the Stars” at CCM to Learn About Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

By
Frank Cahill
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The most recent Data Science Night at County College of Morris, November 2023.

RANDOLPH — To help gain an understanding of data science and artificial intelligence, County College of Morris (CCM) is hosting “Data Science Night: Data Under the Stars,” on Thursday, November 14, from 6:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. This free, interactive event is for students ages 15 and up, including adult learners as well as working professionals.

Data science is one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand career fields, offering high-paying job opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data science jobs are expected to grow by 36% by 2031, with a median salary exceeding $100,000. With industry-leading certification and degree programs, CCM equips its graduates with the skills needed to thrive in this competitive market. Attendees of Data Science Night will learn more about the field and how to get started on this exciting pathway.

Throughout the evening, CCM faculty will be offering hands-on workshops about the building blocks of data science, such as Data Visualization with Tableau, Natural Language Processing and Graphics in Python, Excel Data Analysis and RStudio Statistical Analysis. CCM’s Longo Planetarium will show “Illustris Data Under the Dome,” exploring a universe of data under the starry sky. CCM students and alumni, as well as members from industry and other academic partners, will provide information and facilitate discussions about working towards a fulfilling career in data science.

According to Professor Nancy E. Binowski, Department of Information Technologies at CCM, “Data science and AI are part of our society’s future. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of what AI can do for us as tools like ChatGPT and DALL-E become more powerful and gain in popularity. Diverse industries are quickly embracing AI to enhance every facet of their business. Join us to discover how you can be part of this exciting evolution!”

Participants can also discover CCM’s data analytics certificate – a flexible, five-course track, that can be completed in two semesters and applied towards an Associate of Science degree in Data Science. Representatives from NJIT and Rowan will be on hand to review options to transfer upon graduation from CCM to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree. CCM’s Workforce Development team will also be ready to help one explore the college’s non-credit certificate in data analytics and visualization, an impressive credential to help one break into the data science field or boost their current career!

The schedule of events is as follows:

  • 5:30 – 6 p.m., Check-in, Cohen Café, Cohen Hall
  • 5:30 – 9 p.m., Speak with CCM Staff about Credit and Non-Credit Options through the college’s Department of Information Technologies and Center for Workforce Development
  • 5:30 – 9 p.m., Speak with CCM’s Partners about Transferring College Credit
  • 6 – 6:15 p.m., Welcome! What is Data Science?
  • 6:20 – 6:50 p.m., 7:40 – 8:10 p.m. and 8:15 – 8:45 p.m., Choose Concurrent Workshops to Learn about Natural Language Processing in Python, Spreadsheet Tools for Excel, Tableau for Data Visualization, RStudio Statistical Analysis, Graphics in Python, and/or see Data Under the Dome in the Longo Planetarium
  • 6:20 – 6:50 p.m., Job Market/Internship Update from Data Analytics Industry
  • 7 – 7:30 p.m., Networking Opportunities & Refreshments
  • 7:40 – 8:10 p.m., CCM Data Science Students & Alumni Panel Discussion
  • 8:15 – 8:45 p.m., CCM Programs and Student Presentations: Women in Statistics and Data Science Conference; Datathon Experience
  • 8:45 – 9:00 p.m., Q&A, Dessert, Giveaways

No prior experience in data science is needed to participate in this jam-packed evening, but pre-registration is required. To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ccm-data-science-night-2024-tickets-1031073908817.

CCM is located at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Park in Lot 7 and go directly to the Cohen Café in Cohen Hall in the center of campus.

For questions, contact Nancy E. Binkowski, nbinowski@ccm.edu, 973-328-5775.

To learn more about how CCM prepares graduates to enter this booming field, visit www.ccm.edu.





Help Fill Donation Box for Veterans in Need at St. Rose of Lima Church

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Holiday Giving: Items for NJ Veteran Homes Needed at East Hanover Collection

EAST HANOVER — If you’re looking to give back this season, —an East Hanover veteran—is collecting items for New Jersey veteran homes in need. Any contributions are greatly appreciated, and a donation box is set up at St. Rose of Lima Church, 312 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover.

Requested items include body wash, hard-soled slippers or sneakers, unmedicated body powder, reading glasses/sunglasses, tissues, small craft or model kits (such as wooden kits), denture adhesive and cleaning tablets, sweatshirts and sweatpants (all sizes), electric razors, wireless headphones, postage stamps, men’s undershirts, snacks, and refreshments.

Thank you to everyone who can help support our veterans this holiday season!





Township of Hanover Committee Meeting – October 10, 2024

By
Frank Cahill
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Brian J. Cahill, Michael A. Mihalko, Ronald F. Francioli, John L. Ferramosca, and Thomas "Ace" Gallagher

HANOVER — HANOVER — The Township Committee of the Township of Hanover met on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. for an in-person, open public conference and closed executive legal and personnel meeting in Conference Room “A” at the Township Municipal Building located at 1000 Route 10W in Whippany. Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting. 

  • Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Mayor
  • Michael A. Mihalko, Deputy Mayor
  • Brian J. Cahill, Committeeman
  • John L. Ferramosca, Committeeman
  • Ronald F. Francioli, Committeeman

Click here to download the agenda.





Whippany’s Calais School Leads the Way with Therapy Dog Program for Students with Disabilities

By
Frank Cahill
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herapy Dogs at The Calais School Inspire Academic Success and Emotional Growth

HANOVER — For over a decade, The Calais School in Whippany has been using therapy dogs to support students with special needs through a pioneering program known as The Calais Method. This proprietary technique, specifically designed for special education environments, transforms therapy dog interactions from simple meet-and-greets to structured, therapeutic sessions that promote academic and personal growth.

One of only a few schools nationwide with a fully integrated therapy dog program, The Calais School employs a team of certified therapy dog handlers and well-trained dogs to assist in services like speech and occupational therapy, reading support, social skills training, and in-school crisis response. In 2022, the program received the Innovations in Special Education Award from the New Jersey School Boards Association, and in 2024, the Morris County Chamber of Commerce awarded it the Innovative Program of a Nonprofit Organization.

Parents have seen the impact firsthand. “The dogs make my son want to do things he struggled with, like reading,” shared one parent. “Being with the dogs makes it exciting and fun for him.”

Looking ahead, The Calais School aims to expand The Calais Method beyond its walls to other public and private schools, potentially reaching a broader population of students in need. For more information on the school’s programs, visit www.thecalaisschool.org.





Morris County 2024 Annual Veterans Ceremony Set

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — The Board of County Commissioners invites all to attend the 2024 Annual Morris County Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, November 6, to honor 13 local veterans who will receive Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals.

This event will celebrate the service and sacrifices of these veterans, recognizing their dedication to our country and their ongoing contributions to our communities as we approach Veterans Day on November 11. Among those honored are veterans who served as far back as World War II.

The ceremony will take place at 7:00 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room on the fifth floor of the Morris County Administration & Records Building located at 10 Court Street in Morristown. Guests are encouraged to arrive by 6:30 p.m. to secure seating. A livestream of the event will also be available via the Morris County Government Facebook page and on the county’s website.

The following veterans will receive Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals:

  • Dennis W. Becker II – U.S. Air Force, Mount Olive
  • Stephen Dilluvio – U.S. Navy, Morris Plains
  • Charles E. Fegley III – U.S. Navy, Randolph Township
  • Luke K. Lyons (posthumous) – U.S. Marine Corps, Randolph Township
  • Sean P. Mulholland (posthumous) – U.S. Army, Montville
  • Derek J. Oates – U.S. Army, Florham Park
  • Ricardo J. Perez – U.S. Army, Morris Plains
  • Alan J. Sallie – U.S. Navy, Madison Borough
  • Samuel Scotto (posthumous) – U.S. Marine Corps, Randolph Township
  • Gordon Lee Snyder – U.S. Army, Denville
  • Carmen Turrisi – U.S. Army, East Hanover
  • Robert M. Walton – U.S. Navy, Rockaway Township
  • Rhonda L. Washer – U.S. Army, Morristown

For additional information on this ceremony and other Morris County events, please visit the Official Website of Morris County, NJ.





Town of Dover Mayor and Council Meeting Scheduled for October 29

By
Frank Cahill
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Town of Dover Mayor and Council meeting

DOVER — The Town of Dover Mayor and Council will meet on Tuesday, October 29, at 7:00 p.m. at 37 North Sussex Street.

Click here to download the agenda.

This meeting is being held in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, also known as the Sunshine Law, N.J.S.A. 10:4-6. Notice of the meeting was sent to the Daily Record and Star-Ledger on January 2, 2024, and published in the Record and Ledger on January 5, 2024. It was sent to the Citizen on February 2, 2024, and published in the Citizen on February 7, 2024. Notice was also posted on the Bulletin Board of the Municipal Building.” These notices were sent within 48 hours before this meeting, and there was sufficient time for the publications to publish them. A copy of said notice is on file with the Municipal Clerk.

Mayor James Dodd
(December 31, 2027)

Claudia P. Toro
Council Member – First Ward
(December 31, 2025)

Sandra Wittner
Council Member – First Ward
(December 31, 2024)

Sergio Rodriguez
Council Member – Second Ward
(December 31, 2025)

Geovani Estacio
Council Member – Second Ward
(December 31, 2024)

Michael Scarneo
Council Member – Third Ward
(December 31, 2025)

Karol Ruiz
Council Member – Third Ward
(December 31, 2024)





Pennsylvania Federal Corrections Officer Charged with Domestic Violence Aggravated Assaults, Weapons Offenses and the Unlawful Use of a Firearm

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Prosecutor

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Mount Olive Police Chief Michael Spitzer confirmed that Patrick J. O’Kane, 45, of Exeter, Pennsylvania, has been charged in connection with a domestic violence incident that occurred on October 5, 2024, in Mount Olive. O’Kane is a corrections officer with the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

It is alleged that the victim and defendant were traveling together with a photographer to take photographs of the victim at a local campground. While traveling to the location, an argument ensued over a text message the victim received, which escalated into a physical altercation where the defendant strangled the victim, cut her with a knife in the abdomen, and pointed a firearm at her while threatening to kill her. The incident remains under investigation and no further information will be released at this time. The name and identity of the victim will not be released.

As a result of the investigation, the defendant has been charged with second-degree Aggravated Assault-Strangulation, second-degree Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose, fourth-degree Aggravated Assault- Pointing a Firearm, third-degree Terroristic Threats, third-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose (knife), fourth-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (knife), third-degree Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon; third degree Aggravated Assault on a Domestic Violence Victim, and Disorderly Person offense Simple Assault. Under state law, the defendant’s arrest photograph will not be released.

Under the Criminal Justice Reform Act, and following a detention hearing, the defendant has been detained in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending future court proceedings.
Numerous law enforcement agencies participated in this investigation, including members of the Hackettstown Police Department, Mount Olive Police Department, Exeter Police Department (Pennsylvania), Newtown Police Department (Connecticut), and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Domestic Violence Unit.

Prosecutor Carroll noted, “Domestic violence is a serious crime. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office is committed to holding the perpetrators of domestic violence, especially those that involve physical violence and the use of a firearm or weapon, accountable under the law. I commend the law enforcement officers who responded. Through the skillful use of police de-escalation techniques, they were able to safely arrest the defendant, who had assaulted the victim with a knife and pointed a firearm while threatening to kill the victim.”

The New Jersey Prevention of Domestic Violence Act provides maximum protection to victims of domestic violence. If you or someone you know is the victim of domestic violence there are resources available in Morris County to assist victims and their families at the Morris County Family Justice Center, which is located at 10 Court Street, 4th Floor, Morristown, New Jersey. The Morris Family Justice contact number is (973) 829-4050, or you can visit their website at www.morrisfjc.org or contact the Domestic Violence Abuse hotline at 1-877-R-U-ABUSED.

Editors 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 reasonable doubt.





Morris County Sheriff’s Office and East Hanover Join Forces for Hurricane Relief Drive

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Help Fill the Truck: Donate Essential Supplies for Hurricane Relief in East Hanover

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Sheriff’s Office and The Township of East Hanover Public Safety Team are hosting a “Stuff a Truck” event to collect essential supplies for communities in the Southern United States impacted by recent hurricanes. The public is encouraged to donate new items, including:

  • Food and Baby Supplies: Canned, boxed, and packaged foods, diapers, and baby formula.
  • Hygiene Items: Waterless bath towels, baby wipes, toilet paper, paper towels, deodorant, mouthwash, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand soap, and first aid kits.
  • Cleaning Supplies: Disinfectant wipes, rags, sponges, vacuums, gloves, garbage bags, and other cleaning tools.
  • School Supplies & Miscellaneous: Reading glasses, children’s toys, candy or snacks in sealed containers, and yard tools.
  • New Clothing and Bedding: Work clothes, jackets, socks, underwear, pillows, and mattresses.

Drop-off locations and times are as follows:

  • Department of Public Works (8 Melanie Lane)
    • October 19 – November 1
    • Monday-Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Morris County Sheriff’s Office CSI (500 West Hanover Avenue)
    • October 28 – November 1
    • Daily, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The final collection event will be held at Lurker Park (631 Ridgedale Avenue) on Saturday, November 2, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For more information, please contact the Department of Public Works at (973) 888-6080. This drive is a great opportunity for residents to show their support for those in need after recent devastating storms.





Democratic Morris County Commissioner Candidates Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz Statement on NJGOP Law Enforcement Mailer

By
Frank Cahill
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Bud Ravitz, Justin Strickland, and Jonathan Sackett are running for the position of Morris County Commissioner.

MORRIS COUNTY – Democratic Morris County Commissioner candidates Justin Strickland, Jonathan Sackett, and William “Bud” Ravitz reject the outrageous lies in the mailer sent by the New Jersey Republican State Committee implying that the candidates do not back and support law enforcement.

Here’s the truth: As elected officials in their towns, all three candidates have consistently voted to fully fund the police, voted to hire additional officers, and have been out in the community showing their support of law enforcement.

Justin Strickland is a United States Army combat veteran who acutely understands the importance of public safety. As a Chatham Borough Councilman, Strickland voted this year to hire two additional police officers and purchase two additional police cars not originally in the planned budget. His dedication to public safety extends to school safety. Strickland was the leading councilperson to support Chatham Borough paying for the school police officers out of the municipal budget.

As Rockaway Township Councilman, Jonathan Sackett helped push Rockaway Township in partnership with the Board of Education to hire class three officers in the elementary schools. He voted to increase the police department every year for the six years he has been on the council. Sackett also teaches self-defense and safety as the owner of a martial arts school, and he is proud that his son interned with the Rockaway Township Police department and is now a member of the ROTC for the US Army.

As Morris Township Committeeman and former Deputy Mayor, Bud Ravitz is proud to say that their police department is recognized as one of the best in the county. He serves on the Police Standing Committee and has consistently voted to fully fund the police operating budget and purchase three new vehicles every year.

After decades of a one-party Morris County Board of Commissioners, Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz are ready to revitalize the county with a focus on your voice: Voices that have been asking for a new strategy to combat overdevelopment and better government transparency.

This team of experienced elected officials will always show up for the community. They’ll prioritize community engagement, always seeking to save taxpayer dollars with an eye toward shared services. They know how to make improvements for more livable communities – they’ve done it in their towns and they can do it for the whole county.

Learn more about Strickland, Sackett, and Ravitz by clicking here.





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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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