Thomaso “Tom” Skorupski, Cherished Husband and Friend, Dies at 56
FLORHAM PARK — Thomaso “Tom” Skorupski, 56, of Florham Park, passed away on August 14, 2025, due to chronic respiratory distress. Born on November 2, 1968, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Tom’s journey was filled with milestones that reflected both his dedication to healing and his love for music.
Tommy was known for his kindness, sense of humor, compassion, and passionate, soulful spirit. Earning his medical and pharmacology degrees, he devoted his career to helping others as an addiction psychiatrist and pain management doctor, offering care touched with genuine warmth and empathy. A gifted musician, Tom found joy in playing drums with friends in hardcore bands around the world, believing deeply in music’s power to connect and heal.
Tom was the beloved husband of Monica Rodriguez, and a cherished stepfather to his daughters. He will be forever missed by his brother, Charles Skorupski, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Tom was resilient throughout his life—always meeting challenges with a smile, bringing light and laughter to those around him. He will always be remembered for his wonderful warmth, his ever-present smile, and his huge capacity to love. His absence will be felt always.
May his soul rest peacefully, surrounded by the rhythm he so loved.
A memorial service will be held at a later date, please check back for information.
Donations can be made in Thomaso’s name to the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter Mt. Pleasant, 194 Route 10 West,Tel: 973-386-0590Web: njshelter.org/support-us/memorial-honorariums/
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Thomaso Skorupski, please visit our Tree Store.
Secretary Meghan Gilmore, Lt. Governor Division 7 Nicolas Limanov, President Andrew Lanskey, and Treasurer Nathan Vaisbort at the Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional Charter Night held at the Florham Park Diner.
FLORHAM PARK — The Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional celebrated its official charter night on Thursday, August 21, at the Florham Park Diner, marking the beginning of a new chapter of service in the community.
The evening brought together charter members, local leaders, and guests who gathered to recognize the club’s commitment to the Kiwanis mission: serving the children of the world, one community at a time.
With 17 dedicated charter members, the club already demonstrates a strong foundation of leadership and service. Their first project, a food drive benefitting the Interfaith Food Pantry, set the tone for the club’s commitment to making an immediate impact in Hanover, East Hanover, Florham Park, and beyond.
The Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional’s first service project — a successful food drive supporting the Interfaith Food Pantry — demonstrates the new club’s immediate commitment to serving children and families in Hanover, East Hanover, Florham Park, and beyond.
The club, sponsored by the nearby Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, begins its journey with 17 charter members: Andrew Lanskey, Brenda Castelli, Meghan Gilmore, Renee Clemente, Elizabeth Ceravolo, Marco Pagliuca, Andrew Blind, Christian Passione, Benjamin Kirkwood, Stanley Zaborowski, Nicholas Porfirro, Eddie Sych, Roman Petrocelli, PhD, Pete Newman, Nathan Vaisbort, Linda Kemper, and Jonathan Vargas.
During the evening, speakers reflected on the importance of service, leadership, and building connections across the Kiwanis family. Attendees shared enthusiasm for the opportunities this new club will create for children and families in the region.
The charter night not only celebrated the club’s formation but also underscored the passion and energy its members bring to strengthening their community. As one of the newest additions to the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, the Hanover Regional club is already positioned to grow into a vital force for positive change.
“You are beginning this journey at an exciting time. Across the world, Kiwanis clubs are tackling challenges that seem overwhelming—childhood poverty, hunger, mental health, literacy. And yet, time and time again, Kiwanians rise to meet those challenges. Why? Because we know that big change always begins with small acts of service, multiplied by people with passion. Hanover Regional now becomes part of that force for good. You bring new energy, new ideas, and new hope to our District and to Kiwanis International,” said NJ District Kiwanis International Governor Martin Slezak.
Governor-Elect Frank Cahill and NJ District Kiwanis International Governor Martin Slezak present the official charter to Hanover Regional President Andrew Lanskey
“As Governor-Elect, I could not be more proud to welcome the Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional into our New Jersey District family. Your commitment to service is already evident, and I know you will make a meaningful difference in Hanover, East Hanover, Florham Park, and beyond. Remember, Kiwanis is not just about what we do—it’s about the friendships we form, the lives we touch, and the legacy we build together. Tonight is only the beginning, and I look forward to working alongside you as we grow and serve the children of the world,” added Governor-Elect Frank Cahill.
“As President of this new club, I am honored to stand alongside such a dedicated group of charter members who share a common vision of service. We may be a newly formed club, but our passion for helping children and supporting families is already strong. Together, we are ready to roll up our sleeves and make a lasting difference right here in Hanover, East Hanover, and Florham Park. This is just the beginning of what we hope will be many years of service and friendship,” said Andrew Lanskey, President of the Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional.
Morris Plains Police Set Standard With Consecutive Accreditation
MORRIS PLAINS — At the August 21, 2025 Council meeting, the Morris Plains Police Department was officially presented with its fifth consecutive accreditation, an honor that places the department among just 3.6% of New Jersey law enforcement agencies with this distinction.
This recognition reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to professionalism, transparency, and community safety. The accreditation was awarded through the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) Accreditation Program, a voluntary, statewide initiative designed to enhance accountability and operational effectiveness in policing.
The NJSACOP program is built upon more than 112 standards of excellence aligned with directives from the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office. To achieve accreditation, agencies must undergo a comprehensive self-assessment followed by an independent review conducted by trained assessors to confirm compliance.
Officials credited the award to the collective efforts of the entire police department. “Without the dedication and professionalism of every member of the agency, this prestigious achievement would not have been possible,” said department leaders. Special recognition was also given to Sgt. Rolph, the accreditation manager, for his tireless work ensuring outstanding reviews during each accreditation cycle.
With its fifth consecutive accreditation, the Morris Plains Police Department reaffirms its standing as a leader in law enforcement excellence across New Jersey.
HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Mayor Gallagher met with more than 18 State officials, including representatives from the Governor’s Office, in response to residents’ concerns regarding the influx of children to the Hanover Township school system that has resulted from the placement of families in transition by the State and other government agencies. The group discussed strategies to address the growing need for transitional family housing, the current state of family placements, and the financial impact on the Township’s schools and municipal services.
The August 21 meeting in Trenton was organized by Senator Pennacchio, Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Hanover Township Police Chief Michael Loock, and the Township Attorney Fred Semrau.
Mayor Gallagher summarized the meeting by stating the following “I am pleased to advise our residents that we have been heard by the State officials, and we believe that the discussions will lead to changes that benefit Hanover Township, our residents, and the families in transition. We will have a series of follow-up meetings with the Office of the Commissioner of Education and the Department of Community Affairs and look forward to continuing to work with the Governor’s staff to address the concerns shared by Township officials and residents. I want to thank the State officials and Senator Pennacchio for spearheading this meeting on short notice and seeking a path of real solutions for our residents.
The Governing Body of Hanover Township continues to hear residents’ concerns and will continue to take the necessary steps to have our voices heard and protect the health, safety, and welfare of our residents. We will continue to apprise you of our progress. ”
DOVER — Dover High School was ranked the 218th best high school in New Jersey in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best High Schools rankings. Nationally, Dover placed 6,715th. The annual report evaluated nearly 24,000 public high schools across the country, with close to 18,000 receiving state and national placement.
The U.S. News rankings are based on academic performance, graduation rates, and college readiness. Parsippany High School’s New Jersey Student Learning Assessment results reflect the following proficiency levels:
Several neighboring Morris County high schools were also recognized in the 2025 report:
Mountain Lakes High School: #34 NJ / #663 National
Chatham High School: #37 NJ / #748 National
Morris Hills High School: #57 NJ / #1,198 National
Montville High School: #62 NJ / #1,361 National
Randolph High School: #73 NJ / #1,513 National
Parsippany Hills High School: #76 NJ / #1,534 National
Whippany Park High School: #84 NJ / #1,632 National
Morris Knolls High School: #90 NJ / #1,787 National
Parsippany High School: #102 NJ / #2,055 National
Hanover Park High School: #114 NJ / #2,194 National
Morristown High School: #134 NJ / #3,044 National
Roxbury High School: #195 NJ / #5,721 National
Dover High School: #218 NJ / #6,715 National
Jefferson Township High School: #228 NJ / #7,003 National
Why the Rankings Matter
“Students and families need data to help them make one of the most important decisions of their academic journey. Our Best High Schools rankings provide the insights to help them identify schools that will prepare students for college success,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for education at U.S. News. “Access to information isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for planning a student’s future.”
Tequila Rose will take the stage at the Jefferson Township Gazebo on Friday, August 22, at 6:30 p.m. for a free, family-friendly concert presented by the Jefferson Arts Committee.
JEFFERSON — Sponsored by the Jefferson Arts Committee, the band Tequila Rose will perform in a FREE concert at the Jefferson Township Gazebo on Friday night, August 22, starting at 6:30 p.m. The gazebo is situated in the Jefferson Township Municipal Complex, offering plenty of free parking.
Tequila Rose will be performing the hottest “New Country” hits with some country “Old School” classics and classic rock.
FREE admission, family friendly, bring a chair or blanket for your comfort, BYO snacks and refreshments (no alcoholic beverages, porta-john on site, carry in/carry out your trash.
Free will donations are always appreciated. In the case of inclement weather, the concert will be re-located to the auditorium of the Jefferson Township High School just up the street at 1010 Weldon Road.
Jefferson Township High School is located at 1010 Weldon Road
Oak Ridge
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Jefferson Township High School has been recognized in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best High Schools rankings, placing 228th in New Jersey and 7,003rd nationally.
The annual rankings evaluated nearly 24,000 public high schools across the country, with close to 18,000 receiving state and national recognition. The methodology weighs factors such as academic performance, graduation rates, and college readiness.
Local Rankings
Several nearby schools also earned recognition in the 2025 report:
Mountain Lakes High School: #34 NJ / #663 National
Chatham High School: #37 NJ / #748 National
Morris Hills High School: #57 NJ / #1,198 National
Montville High School: #62 NJ / #1,361 National
Randolph High School: #73 NJ / #1,513 National
Parsippany Hills High School: #76 NJ / #1,534 National
Whippany Park High School: #84 NJ / #1,632 National
Morris Knolls High School: #90 NJ / #1,787 National
Parsippany High School: #102 NJ / #2,055 National
Hanover Park High School: #114 NJ / #2,194 National
Morristown High School: #134 NJ / #3,044 National
Roxbury High School: #195 NJ / #5,721 National
Jefferson Township High School: #228 NJ / #7,003 National
Why the Rankings Matter
“Students and families need data to help them make one of the most important decisions of their academic journey. Our Best High Schools rankings provide the insights to help them identify schools that will prepare students for college success,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for education at U.S. News. “Access to information isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for planning a student’s future.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) issued the following statement in response to recent news that AON, the state’s actuary, endorsed Governor Murphy’s plan to significantly increase health insurance premium costs for New Jersey state workers:
“Senate Republicans have been warning about this looming crisis for years and unfortunately those warnings were ignored,” said Sen. Bucco. “Then just weeks ago, we called for the Legislature to reconvene and form a bipartisan, bicameral committee to understand the root cause and develop real solutions. That call was ignored too. Now, instead of innovation, leadership, or reform to address the problem, the Murphy administration’s hand-picked actuary is moving forward with forcing state workers to shoulder the burden for the Democrats’ failures.”
Earlier this month, Sen. Bucco called for a legislative session to pass SCR-61, which would create the bipartisan New Jersey Public Employee Health Care Program Costs Investigation Committee. The proposed committee would scrutinize the looming 37% premium increase in the State Health Benefits Program that threatens to blow holes in municipal and school budgets and push property taxes even higher.
“It’s honestly just shameful. Over the last two years, Democrats in Trenton have spent over $1 billion on last-minute pork projects, yet when it comes time to support our dedicated public servants, there’s suddenly no money and no will to act. This is not fiscal responsibility, it’s fiscal malfeasance and our public workers deserve better,” Bucco concluded.
EAST HANOVER — Whippany Park High School was ranked the 84th best high school in New Jersey in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best High Schools rankings. Nationally, Whippany Park placed 1,632nd. The rankings evaluated nearly 24,000 eligible public high schools nationwide, with almost 18,000 receiving state and national recognition.
Hanover Park High School was also recognized, earning the 114th spot statewide and 2,194th nationally.
The U.S. News methodology weighs academic performance, graduation rates, and college readiness. At Whippany Park, New Jersey Student Learning Assessment scores reflect the following subject proficiencies:
Mathematics: 50%
Reading: 64%
Science: 42%
Graduation Rate: 95%
Local Rankings
Neighboring public high schools also ranked prominently in the 2025 report:
Madison High School: #77 NJ / #1,550 National
Mountain Lakes High School: #34 NJ / #663 National
Chatham High School: #37 NJ / #748 National
Morris Hills High School: #57 NJ / #1,198 National
Montville High School: #62 NJ / #1,361 National
Randolph High School: #73 NJ / #1,513 National
Parsippany Hills High School: #76 NJ / #1,534 National
Whippany Park High School: #84 NJ / #1,632 National
Morris Knolls High School: #90 NJ / #1,787 National
Parsippany High School: #102 NJ / #2,055 National
Hanover Park High School: #114 NJ / #2,194 National
Morristown High School: #134 NJ / #3,044 National
Roxbury High School: #195 NJ / #5,721 National
Why Rankings Matter
“Students and families need data to help them make one of the most important decisions of their academic journey. Our Best High Schools rankings provide the insights to help them identify schools that will prepare students for college success,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for education at U.S. News. “Access to information isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for planning a student’s future.”
MORRISTOWN – Golfers and pickleball enthusiasts are invited to take part in the County College of Morris (CCM) Foundation’s 2025 President’s Golf Classic on Monday, October 6, at Spring Brook Country Club in Morristown.
This year’s event marks a new chapter for the annual fundraiser, which benefits CCM Athletics and Foundation programs. In addition to golf, participants will have the option to enjoy the event’s first-ever pickleball component, paired with a guided wine tasting.
The day begins at 10:00 a.m. with registration and a barbecue lunch, followed by a 12:00 p.m. shotgun start on Spring Brook’s private 18-hole championship course. Those choosing the “Pickleball & Wine Tasting Experience” will receive a lesson from a club pro and a curated Italian wine tasting led by a sommelier.
At 4:30 p.m., all attendees will come together for a cocktail reception, buffet dinner, and awards program. Each registration includes access to amenities such as bag drop-off, use of the driving range and locker rooms, a thank-you gift, and raffle opportunities.
Sponsorship opportunities begin at $350, ranging from tee signs and ad journal placements to lunch, dinner, and beverage cart sponsorships. Higher-level Champion Sponsor packages are also available for businesses and individuals seeking greater visibility.
