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The Wait is Over: Lakeland Hills Family YMCA Opens Renovated Health & Fitness Center

By
Frank Cahill
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MOUNTAIN LAKES – Lakeland Hills Family YMCA proudly announces the grand opening of its reimagined Health and Fitness Center on Monday, December 22 at 5:00 a.m. The newly renovated facility offers members a fully redesigned space focused on connection, performance, and progress.

“This is more than a renovation, this is a reinvention of how we come together, move, and thrive,” said Alex Martinez, CEO of Lakeland Hills Family YMCA. “Every detail was designed to ensure our members have access to innovative tools and supportive environments that empower their wellness journeys.”

The new Health and Fitness Center includes six distinct zones for functional training, recovery, and personalized workouts: an immersive cycling studio, a dynamic turf training area, an intelligent EGYM circuit, a dedicated FitWorks training room, a next-generation cardio center, and a specialized Restore and Recovery zone. These spaces are designed to accommodate all fitness levels and foster a sense of community, growth, and achievement.

Highlights include:

  • FitWorks Training Room: Personal, group, and squad training designed to foster accountability, motivation, and shared success.
  • Cycling Studio: A sensory-rich environment where lighting, sound, and energy fuel every ride.
  • EGYM Circuit: Smart equipment that adjusts automatically to each user’s profile. Just tap in, and settings like weight, tempo, and range of motion are designed to deliver a complete, guided 30-minute workout.
    All current LHY members receive their personalized setup at no additional cost. EGYM is included in membership.
  • Turf Functional Training Area: A space for movement-based training where strength meets purpose in a high-energy environment.
  • Cardio Center: Redesigned with the latest equipment and an open layout to support both intensity and comfort.
  • Restore and Recovery Area: A calm, welcoming space to stretch, work on mobility, and take a moment to exhale after a great workout.

This transformation reflects the YMCA’s continued commitment to inclusivity, community health, and helping individuals reach their full potential. The updated center invites members of all backgrounds and abilities to discover what it means to move, connect, and thrive.

About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA

Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening community by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and each other. We provide programs and services that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility across all life stages.

Shop, Sparkle, Support: Jewelry Fundraiser Benefits Jefferson Township Graduate

By
Frank Cahill
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Picture shown is for illustration purposes only and may not depict the actual event, location, volunteers, or items accepted.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Shoppers looking to add a little sparkle to their jewelry collection while supporting a meaningful local cause can do so through a special Mystery Jewelry Bag Sale now underway at the Very Sherry Boutique at Nick’s Hope.

For $5.75, customers will receive a mystery bag containing three brand-new Paparazzi jewelry pieces, offering an affordable and fun way to refresh an accessory collection while giving back to the community.

Proceeds from the sale will be used to fund a Community Service Scholarship for a 2026 Jefferson Township graduate, directly supporting a local student who has demonstrated a commitment to service and community involvement.

The fundraiser combines style with purpose, encouraging residents to support local students, enjoy fashionable accessories, and make a positive impact close to home.

The Very Sherry Boutique is located inside Nick’s Hope, 5716 Berkshire Valley Road, Oak Ridge. Shopping hours are Monday and Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Additional information about Nick’s Hope is available at www.nickshope.com.

Community members are encouraged to stop by, grab a mystery bag, and help invest in the future of Jefferson Township—one piece of jewelry at a time.

Hanover Rotary to Host Casino Night & Tricky Tray at New Location

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

HANOVER — The Hanover Rotary Club will bring the excitement of Las Vegas to Hanover with its popular Casino Night & Tricky Tray fundraiser on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

The annual event will take place at a new location, the Ukrainian American Center, located at 60 North Jefferson Road, offering guests a fresh setting for an evening of gaming, prizes, and community fun.

Attendees can try their luck at casino-style games including roulette and card tables, while also participating in the always-anticipated tricky tray raffles. The evening promises a lively atmosphere filled with friendly competition and great prizes.

Tickets are $75.00 per person and include food, beer, wine, and 100 casino bucks. Guests must be 21 or older to attend and are encouraged to wear their favorite jersey, adding a spirited and casual flair to the night.

Proceeds from the event will support the Hanover Rotary Club’s charitable initiatives, which benefit local and international community programs.

For tickets and additional information, interested attendees are encouraged to Venmo @HanoverRotaryClub.

Repair Cafe Brings Free Fix-It Help to Grace Episcopal Church

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MADISON — The Repair Cafe, an event where volunteers help make free repairs on various items, is coming to Grace Episcopal Church, located at 4 Madison Avenue, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 3.

The event is being hosted by Team No Nonsense North Jersey and the Repair Cafe.

A wide variety of items may be brought in, including lamps, bicycles, clothing and other fabric items, small appliances, wooden items, jewelry, toys, knives in need of sharpening, phones, and computers. Items should be small enough to be carried in by one person. No gasoline motors or hazardous materials are allowed.

The repairers are always looking for new volunteers to join the team. Expert repairers with their own tools and individuals who want to help with logistics and organization are welcome. There is no age requirement, and volunteers have ranged from their teens to their eighties.

Anyone interested in volunteering may contact Paul Lemaire at [email protected] or (732) 261-6443.

Pam Yee Reaches Career Milestone: 50 Years at Employment Horizons

By
Frank Cahill
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Whippany resident Pam Yee is celebrating 50 years of employment with Employment Horizons

HANOVER — It’s an impressive milestone that’s almost unheard of in today’s career landscape—Whippany resident Pam Yee is celebrating 50 years of employment with Employment Horizons, the premier nonprofit that provides job training and placement services to individuals with disabilities in Northern New Jersey.

In 1975, Pam and her family were seeking a supportive environment to find meaningful, enjoyable work. Although job opportunities for individuals with disabilities were especially scarce, they found the right fit at Employment Horizons, then known as the Occupational Training Center for the Handicapped. Pam worked with a job coach, Liz DeCamp, who helped her secure a salon assistant position at Little Hair House, a salon in Denville. Her duties included cleaning, doing laundry, and making coffee. DeCamp, now the organization’s Manager of Career Development Services, says, “Pam was and continues to be a ray of sunshine—always smiling, always happy to be there.”

Lisa Montalbano, now CEO of Employment Horizons, also worked as Pam’s job coach and remembers Pam’s ability to make personal connections with customers. “Pam worked independently and rarely needed much instruction,” Lisa says. “She was called “The Mayor” because, over time, Pam knew and loved all the customers, and they loved her!”

Later in her career, Pam joined the fulfillment center team at Employment Horizons’ Cedar Knolls facility, where she currently handles packaging and assembly work. Pam’s skills, enthusiasm, and outgoing personality have made her an outstanding employee, and her supervisors report that Pam has an abundance of energy and always seems to be in a good mood. Her infectious laugh is heard often, and she is quick to strike up a conversation with a coworker or visitor. As Employment Horizons’ longest-tenured employee, Pam’s friendly nature and sense of humor have helped shape the warm, welcoming environment that she values so much—and according to Pam, that community spirit is the best part of the job. Pam says, “My favorite part about working here is the staff, the friends I work with, and the fun events!”

Pam’s career achievement was recently celebrated at Employment Horizons’ Annual Recognition Dinner that honors individuals with disabilities served by Employment Horizons that have reached their vocational goals; over 200 attendees cheered as Pam received the Gold Star Award for her impressive career.

Founded in 1957, Employment Horizons is an innovative nonprofit agency offering vocational training and placement programs for individuals with disabilities. To learn more about Employment Horizons, visit http://www.ehorizons.org or contact Karen Rynearson at [email protected].

NewBridge Services Launches Redesigned Website to Improve Access to Care

By
Frank Cahill
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NewBridge Services’ new website makes it easier than ever to access mental health, behavioral health, housing, and educational services across Northern New Jersey—connecting individuals and families to care, support, and hope.

MORRIS COUNTY — NewBridge Services this week launched a redesigned website (https://newbridge.org) that makes it easier for individuals, families and community partners to access the counseling, housing and education services the organization provides across northern New Jersey.

“It was important that the new website reflect our mission and make it easy for people to connect with us,” said NewBridge CEO Michelle Borden. “The redesign was about creating a welcoming, user-friendly experience, so anyone — whether they’re looking for resources, wanting to donate, or just learning about our programs — can find what they need quickly.”

NewBridge Services was founded in Morris County in 1963 and each year serves thousands of children, adults and seniors through programs in counseling, housing and education. In Morris County, NewBridge operates service centers in Parsippany and Pompton Plains, where its headquarters is located.

The new website features clearer program descriptions and an intuitive layout that simplifies exploring NewBridge’s range of services — from outpatient counseling and psychiatric day treatment to supportive housing, youth education programs, and services for older adults. Its launch follows NewBridge’s adoption of a new logo last month.

Enhancing Care Through Systemwide Collaboration

The site incorporates a unified brand and visual identity that reflects NewBridge’s integration within the Christian Health system. This alignment enables clients to access a broader range of services when their needs change.

Recently, the Christian Health team supported a NewBridge client experiencing an acute change in symptoms. They arranged inpatient care at Ramapo Ridge Behavioral Health, a Christian Health hospital, and later coordinated her transition back to NewBridge’s Community Support Services program for continued recovery at home.

“NewBridge’s new website represents an important step in strengthening how individuals access behavioral health and supportive services,” said Stephen J. Dumke, LNHA, FACHE, president and CEO of Christian Health. “It reflects our shared commitment to ensuring people can connect with the right care at the right time, and it provides an easier way for clients to navigate the services available to them.” 

The new site features client stories that illustrate the challenges people face and how NewBridge helps them rebuild their lives. It also makes it easier for donors, community partners and prospective sponsors to learn how they can support the organization’s mission.

Morris County Releases 250th Anniversary Coloring & Activity Book

By
Frank Cahill
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More Revolutionary War battles and encampments arose in New Jersey than any other colony — and Morris County hosted many of the central figures from that era and has preserved numerous historic sites where key events unfolded. It will all be the focus of celebratory events throughout 2025 and 2026.

The Morris County 250th Celebrations Committee, in partnership with the Morris County Tourism Bureau and the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, is proud to announce the release of the “Morris County 250th Anniversary Coloring & Activity Book” — a creative new way for families, students and residents to explore the county’s Revolutionary War roots.

Download the 250th Coloring and Activity Book Here

“Morris County holds a distinguished place in our nation’s founding, and it is our responsibility to ensure that this history is preserved, understood, and appreciated by future generations. Our Revolutionary coloring and activity book is an example of one way we can educate our youngest residents about our county’s Revolutionary heritage, allowing families and students to relate to our history in a meaningful way. The Board of County Commissioners is proud to support initiatives that promote historical awareness and appreciation of our county’s role in shaping the American story,” said Commissioner Christine Myers.

Designed for learners of all ages, this special-edition publication brings Morris County’s remarkable history to life through interactive illustrations and activities. Each page highlights the landmarks, people and pivotal moments that shaped the region’s essential role in the American Revolution, offering a fun and accessible introduction to local heritage.

“As we prepare for the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, our goal is to bring history to life in meaningful and creative ways. This coloring and activity book allows children and families to explore Morris County’s Revolutionary past together — page by page, story by story. We hope it sparks a sense of wonder, encourages visits to our historic sites, and strengthens our shared appreciation for the enduring contributions of this region,” said Sarah Neibart, chair of Morris County’s 250th Celebrations.

Many of the illustrations draw inspiration from the beloved work of renowned Morris County artist Lucille Hobbie (1915-2008), whose detailed lithographs and watercolors beautifully captured the area’s historic character. The cover showcases the official Morris County 250th Anniversary logo — a silhouette of Gen. George Washington on horseback—symbolizing leadership, perseverance and the county’s enduring connection to the founding of our nation.

“The Heritage Commission is thrilled to contribute to a project that connects everyone with Morris County’s extraordinary past. By blending history, art and education, this activity book allows individuals to discover our local historic sites and their significance in America’s journey to independence. It’s an interactive reminder that history is not only something we preserve — it’s something we experience,” said Amanda Broschart, Director of the Morris County Heritage Commission.

The 15-page coloring and activity book features scenes from key Revolutionary-era locations, including the Ford Mansion, Washington’s Headquarters, The Alliance statue, and historic structures, such as the Black Horse Inn and Rockaway Presbyterian Church. Each activity is crafted to spark curiosity, encourage exploration and deepen appreciation for Morris County’s vital contribution to America’s fight for independence.

“The business community has long recognized the importance of Morris County’s historical assets in shaping our identity and supporting a vibrant local economy. This coloring and activity book not only highlights our Revolutionary heritage, but also reinforces the value of cultural tourism as we approach the 250th Anniversary. The Chamber is proud to support efforts that celebrate our history, strengthen community engagement and promote Morris County as a destination for families, students, and visitors alike,” said Meghan Hunscher President & CEO, Morris County Chamber of Commerce.

The book is part of the county’s broader initiative marking the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution — a multi-year effort to celebrate, educate and engage communities across Morris County and the region through events, programs and historical storytelling.

Copies of the Morris County 250th Anniversary Coloring & Activity Book are available through the Morris County 250th Anniversary website.

For more information about the 250th Anniversary commemoration and upcoming events, visit morriscounty250.org.

Morris County Jury Finds Kyle Meyer Guilty of Murder and Weapons Offenses

By
Frank Cahill
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Greg Meyer

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert M. McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Boonton Township Chief of Police Thomas Cacciabeve confirmed that a jury has found Kyle Meyer, 35, formerly of Boonton Township, guilty of murder and weapons offenses in connection with a homicide that occurred in the Township on December 24, 2023.

The jury returned its verdicts on December 15, 2025, following a seven-day trial. The defendant was found guilty of first-degree murder, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon.

The Honorable Ralph E. Amirata, J.S.C. presided over the trial and scheduled a sentencing hearing in the matter for February 6, 2026. The defendant will remain in custody pending his sentence date.

On December 24, 2023, at approximately 1:15 p.m., law enforcement was dispatched to a residence located on Old Denville Road in Boonton Township in response to an emergency call. Gregory Meyer, 61, was discovered deceased, and subsequent investigation determined his son, Kyle Meyer, to be a suspect. Following further investigation, Kyle Meyer was detained in Paterson at approximately 9:00 p.m. Kyle Meyer is the victim’s son, and the two resided at the same Boonton Township residence.

The Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the victim’s cause of death to be exsanguination due to multiple injuries, and the manner of death to be homicide. Investigators identified a battery-operated pole saw as the weapon utilized by Kyle Meyer to commit the murder.

Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank and acknowledge the agencies that participated in the investigation that led to the successful guilty verdict in this difficult case, including the exhaustive efforts the Boonton Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon and the Morris County Sheriff’s Department, and the Paterson Police Department. The Prosecutor would also like to especially thank Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Tara Wang and Assistant Prosecutor Kyle Herda who tried this case in court, and Boonton Township Sgt. Christopher Chicoris and Det. Peter Ricciardi, and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Lt. Michael Gomez, Sgt. Matthew Magnone, Det. Gregory Federici, and Det. Jenna Powers for their outstanding efforts in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

Boonton Township Police Chief Thomas Cacciabeve said, “I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the collaborative effort displayed by multiple police agencies on this case. This investigation was a textbook example of outstanding teamwork by multiple police agencies. The Boonton Township Police Department is truly thankful for the assistance we received from our partner agencies, which resulted in a favorable outcome to what began as an absolute tragic situation. The officers of the Boonton Township Police Department worked tirelessly on this case to ensure that justice prevailed. On a more personal note, I would like to say that I am sincerely grateful to the numerous officers and investigators who spent countless grueling hours at this tragic crime scene on the night of Christmas Eve 2023; their efforts undoubtedly had a direct impact on the successful conclusion of this investigation.”

Committee Approves Uniform Electronic Wills Act Sponsored by Senator Pennacchio

By
Frank Cahill
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Senator Joe Pennacchio

MORRIS COUNTY — The Senate Judiciary Committee favorably released bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) that would authorize the use of electronic wills in New Jersey.

“At a time when most people bank, shop, and handle their daily affairs online, our approach to wills remains stuck in the past,” said Sen. Pennacchio. “This legislation responsibly modernizes our probate laws, maintaining the same safeguards that protect traditional paper documents. Allowing electronic wills simply gives residents a practical, legally secure way to ensure their final wishes are honored.”

Senator Pennacchio’s bipartisan bill, S-421, establishes a secure framework for electronic wills, including witness and notary requirements, custody protections, and recognition of electronic wills executed in other states. To date, approximately fourteen states have adopted similar legislation.

Read the full text of the bill online.

Stephen Shaw to Serve as Morris County Commissioner Director, Krickus Named Deputy

By
Frank Cahill
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Commissioner Stephen Shaw

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners selected Commissioner Stephen Shaw of Mountain Lakes to serve as Commissioner Director and Commissioner John Krickus of Washington Township as Deputy Director for 2026 during its December 9 caucus.

Republicans retained all seats on the County Commissioner Board in the most recent election, a result viewed as a vote of confidence in the board’s leadership and direction. The county continues to be recognized for having the number one county college and vocational school district in New Jersey, the largest county park system, and for being among the safest counties in the state, while maintaining the second-lowest county portion of property taxes.

Incoming Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw brings extensive experience in both public service and the private sector. Shaw owns a small family contracting business and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He served on the Mountain Lakes Borough Council for 12 years and was selected by his colleagues to serve as mayor for three of those years. Shaw resides in Mountain Lakes with his wife, Cindy, and is the father of two adult children and grandfather to three grandchildren.

Incoming Deputy Director John Krickus is a United States Marine Corps veteran and a retired Certified Public Accountant. His professional background includes work in data analytics with Dun & Bradstreet and Experian. Krickus previously served on the Washington Township Committee for 12 years, including three years as mayor. Born and raised in Madison, he now lives in Long Valley with his wife, Carolyn, where they raised their two daughters.

The new leadership team will officially assume their roles in 2026.

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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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