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The Woman’s Club of Boonton Hosts Back-to-School Supply Drive

By
Frank Cahill
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BOONTON — The Woman’s Club of Boonton is calling on the community to help local students start the school year off strong by donating essential school supplies. Their Back-to-School Drive runs from July 1 through August 15, 2025, with multiple drop-off locations available for convenience.

Confirmed collection sites include:

  • 46 West Hair Studio
  • Boonton Holmes Library
  • Embark
  • Boonton Town Hall
  • MJ Salon
  • Curly’s
  • Herbal Root Organics

Requested school supplies include:

  • 24-count crayons, pink pearl erasers, eraser caps
  • Glue sticks, highlighters (various colors)
  • Ticonderoga pencils, blue/red pens, fine-tip dry erase markers
  • Black Sharpies, black/colored pencils
  • Marble composition books
  • Spiral notebooks (1-subject & 3-subject), 1”–3” ring binders
  • Sturdy 2-pocket folders
  • 5” scissors, hard pencil cases, soft 3-hole pencil cases
  • 3”x3” Post-it Notes

Your generous donations will directly benefit students in need, helping them return to the classroom prepared and confident.

For more information, contact the Woman’s Club of Boonton or visit any of the collection sites.

Caretaker Charged After Children Found Unattended at Playground

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — A 40-year-old Jefferson woman is facing multiple charges after two young children were found alone and crying at Gardner Field playground on Sunday, July 20, 2025.

At approximately 6:00 p.m., officers from the Denville Police Department responded to a call reporting that two children—ages two and five—had been located without adult supervision in a corner of the playground at Gardner Field.

Following an on-scene investigation, police identified the children’s caretaker as Anna Masuk. Authorities determined that Masuk had left the children unattended for an extended period of time. When she returned to the playground, officers noted that additional children in her care were improperly secured inside her vehicle without appropriate child restraint systems.

As a result, Masuk was arrested and charged with the following:

  • N.J.S.A. 9:6-3 – Abuse, cruelty or neglect of a child
  • N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2A – Failure to secure a child in a child passenger restraint system

Masuk was processed and released pending a future court date. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

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.

Hanover Township to Host Flood Remediation Fall Clean-Up Day on October 4

By
Frank Cahill
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Volunteers will gather to take part in Rockaway River Clean-Up, helping to preserve the local environment one bag at a time.

HANOVER — Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher has announced an all-volunteer flood remediation initiative aimed at supporting the Whippany/Passaic River Flood Remediation Task Force. The township will host its annual “Clean-Up Day” on Saturday, October 4, 2025, with a rain date scheduled for Saturday, October 11.

The event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and focus on tree removal, de-snagging of rivers, and cleanup along the banks of the Whippany River. Several high-priority sites have been identified where volunteer efforts will be most impactful.

“This event builds on our ongoing efforts to address flooding in Hanover Township,” said Mayor Gallagher. “By bringing together a volunteer network of contractors, non-profits, civic organizations, and resident volunteers, we can assist with efforts vital to improving water flow and reducing future property damage.”

Those interested in participating—whether as individuals, groups, or contractors—are encouraged to contact Mayor Gallagher at (973) 441-0114 or by email at [email protected].

Additional information, including designated clean-up sites, will be posted on the township’s website and social media platforms as the event date approaches.

Authorities Seeking Public Assistance in Locating Adult Female Last Seen in Dover

By
Frank Cahill
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Destiny Erts

DOVER — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Dover Police Department Chief Jonathan Delaney, and Human Services Police Chief Brian Lee are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a 26-year-old female from Randolph, last seen in Dover.

Destiny Erts, of Randolph, was last seen at 11:30 a.m. at the Dover Public Library on Friday, July 11. She is considered intellectually disabled and endangered.

Have you seen Destiny Erts? 26-year-old Black female, 6’3″, last seen wearing black pants, navy blue tank top, gray hooded cardigan, black shoes, and carrying a light gray bookbag. If you have any information, please contact the authorities as soon as possible.

Destiny Erts is a 26-year-old Black female, 6 feet 3 inches in height, with brown eyes and black hair.

She was wearing black pants, a navy blue tank top, a gray hooded cardigan, black shoes, and carrying a light gray bookbag.

The Human Services Police Department, the Dover Police Department with the assistance of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Missing Persons Unit, has been diligently working on this active missing person investigation.

Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts or this investigation is encouraged to make contact with the Human Services Police Department at (973) 898-4964 or the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Missing Persons Unit On-Call Detective through the Morris County Communications Center at (973) 285-2900.

CCM Dean Recognized for Outstanding Leadership, Service and Academic Achievement 

By
Frank Cahill
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Dr. Maria Isaza, dean of the School of Health Professions and Natural Sciences at County College of Morris (CCM) and recipient of the prestigious “Excellence in Community Engagement Award” from the Sloan Scholars Mentoring Network (SSMN).

MORRIS COUNTY — Dr. Maria Isaza, dean of the School of Health Professions and Natural Sciences at County College of Morris (CCM), has been named the recipient of the prestigious “Excellence in Community Engagement Award” from the Sloan Scholars Mentoring Network (SSMN). This honor, which recognizes a Sloan Scholar alum, reflects her outstanding commitment to community engagement and public service, which has positively affected or is poised to make a positive change within her community.  

Born in Colombia, Dr. Isaza immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 21 and immediately began her academic journey at CCM. She furthered her college education with earning a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Saint Elizabeth and later completing a Ph.D. in biomedical science as a Sloan Scholar at Rutgers University.    

Dr. Maria Isaza

She began her career at CCM as an adjunct faculty member. Through unwavering commitment and excellence, Dr. Isaza advanced to full-time professor, assistant chairperson and then chairperson of the Department of Biology & Chemistry. In 2021, she was appointed to dean of the School of Health Professions and Natural Sciences. 

“Receiving this honor is deeply humbling,” said Dr. Isaza. “As an immigrant and a first-generation college student, my journey has not always been easy. But I’ve been fortunate to have the support of mentors, colleagues and community members who believed in me. I carry that spirit forward in everything I do — in the classroom, in leadership and in service.” 

In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Isaza has been an active and dedicated community leader for over a decade in her hometown of Dover. She has served on the board of the Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs (MCOHA) since 2015 and has chaired since 2020. Under her leadership, MCOHA expanded its reach, now serving more than 20,000 individuals annually through programs ranging from food distribution to senior support. Dr. Isaza has also served on the Advocacy Committee at Employment Horizons since 2019 and was appointed to the Morris Area Paratransit System Citizens Advisory Committee.  

Her overall philanthropic nature has resulted in numerous accolades in recent years. This includes the Sloan Scholars Mentoring Network Travel Grant (2019), the CCM Innovation Award (2019), the SHINE Award from Child & Family Resources (2024) and the Impact Award from the National Society of Leadership and Success (2024). She also became the 2025 Honoree of the Hispanic Resource and Information Center of the Newark Public Library. 

“Dr. Isaza embodies the mission of CCM in transforming lives through education and strengthening communities,” said Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM. “Her story is one of perseverance and purpose, and her impact reaches far beyond our campus. She is a highly regarded scholar, a leader, a role model and a true force for good in our community. She continues to inspire students and colleagues alike through her passion for service. This is a testament to what’s possible when opportunity meets dedication.” 

For more information about CCM, which offers associate degree programs and a full slate of certificate and workforce development opportunities designed to lead to successful careers, visit www.ccm.edu. 

Morris County Dedicates Susan O’Donnell Head Start Headquarters

By
Frank Cahill
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Susan O’Donnell and Morris County Commissioner Christine Myers with a resolution she presented on behalf of the entire Morris County Board of County Commissioners.

DOVER — Local officials, families, and community partners gathered yesterday to celebrate the grand opening of a newly renovated and expanded Head Start facility in Dover — now officially named the Susan O’Donnell Head Start Headquarters, in honor of the recently retired executive director whose decade of leadership transformed early childhood education in Morris County.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony at 18 Thompson Avenue marked the completion of four new classrooms and major upgrades to the site of the original Head Start location in Morris County. The event also coincides with the 60th anniversary of Head Start’s founding, with Morris County having participated in the federal initiative since its launch in 1965.

“Today, we’re not just celebrating a beautifully renovated building; we’re honoring a legacy,” said Commissioner Christine Myers, who presented a formal Resolution of Honor on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners. “Susan didn’t just grow Head Start in Morris County — she elevated it. With people like her, there are no limits to what we deliver, not just for our children, but for future generations.”

During her ten-year tenure as executive director, which concluded with her retirement in January 2025, O’Donnell oversaw a period of remarkable growth. Enrollment doubled as she led critical facility expansions in Dover and Morris Plains, including the Robert C. Grant Center that opened in 2020 at 1 Medical Drive in Morris County Central Park.

Morris County Commissioner Christine Myers, President of the Head Start of Morris County Board of Directors Robert C. Grant and retired Head Start Executive Director Susan O’Donnell.

Both sites recently earned five-star ratings from Grow NJ Kids, making them the only Head Start locations in New Jersey to achieve the distinction.

O’Donnell’s impact extends beyond her professional role, having long been a dedicated advocate and volunteer, serving on numerous community boards and committees. Since 2008, she has been a member of the Morris County Youth Services Advisory Committee (YSAC), where she helps guide countywide policies and funding for at-risk youth.

“The work of this organization begins and ends here for the past 60 years. Our team is made up of absolute superstars. Every one of you has contributed to the success of Head Start. I’m so grateful and blessed to have had this opportunity for ten years — working with people I have grown to love, along with a Board of Directors that has been so supportive of the program,” said O’Donnell in her remarks at the ceremony.

State Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Dover Mayor James Dodd, and representatives from the offices of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and U.S. Senator Andy Kim also praised O’Donnell and presented honors recognizing her contributions to the children and families of Morris County.

Among those in attendance were County Administrator Deena Leary, Assistant Administrator Brian Murray, and Human Services Director Kasey Errico. Bob Grant, a longtime president of the Head Start Board of Trustees and namesake of the Morris Plains facility, emceed the program.

“Ten years ago, Head Start was going through a challenging period, and we knew we needed someone with the right vision to move us forward. Susan elevated every aspect of this organization. From curriculum to community engagement, her focus was always on doing what was best for the children. We wouldn’t be where we are today without her,” said Grant.

The celebration also served to introduce Juan Fernandez as the new executive director. Fernandez, who previously served as facilities manager during the Dover renovations, presented O’Donnell with a card signed by children in the program and pledged to continue building on her legacy.

The mission of Head Start Community Program of Morris County, founded in 1965, is to partner with families to provide comprehensive support for child development and school readiness, from prenatal through kindergarten ages, for the community’s most vulnerable children.

The organization currently serves 316 families, providing free programs for expectant mothers, infants, toddlers and preschoolers at sites throughout Morris County. Head Start services are responsive to each child and family’s ethnic, cultural and linguistic heritage.

More information about Head Start services in Morris County is available by calling 973-989-5640 or by visiting the organization’s website, headstartmc.org.

Lakeland Hills YMCA Launches “Grit ’n Climb” to Build Youth Resilience

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Participants in Lakeland Hills YMCA’s new “Grit ’n Climb” program take on the climbing wall at Randolph Climbing Center, building confidence, teamwork, and resilience along the way.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is introducing a new youth development program, Grit ’n Climb, as part of its award-winning resilience series. Designed for children ages 8 to 12, the initiative blends physical activity with emotional and social growth in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Weekly sessions begin Wednesday, October 15, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Randolph Climbing Center. Through rock climbing, team-building, and guided reflection, participants will learn how to tackle real-world challenges with confidence, courage, and compassion.

“Grit ’n Climb is about more than just climbing walls,” said Alex Martinez, CEO of Lakeland Hills Family YMCA. “It’s about equipping kids with the inner strength to face life’s obstacles and feel a sense of belonging.”

Led by trained YMCA staff, the program focuses on resilience, peer connection, and emotional well-being.

Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. For full program details and to register, visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com.

Lakeland Hills YMCA Hosts Free Outdoor Concert Featuring Parsippany’s Allegro Orchestra

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Members of the Allegro Encore Symphony, part of The Music Shop in Parsippany, perform during the outdoor summer concert at Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, taking the audience on a musical journey around the world.

MOUNTAIN LAKES — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA invites residents to enjoy an evening of music and community at a free Outdoor Summer Concert on Thursday, August 7, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The event will feature a performance by the Allegro Orchestra from The Music Shop in Parsippany, presenting their Summer Encore Group in a family-friendly program titled “A Musical Journey Around the World.” The concert will take place on the YMCA’s scenic outdoor lawn and includes a mix of classical favorites and cultural selections from around the globe.

“We’re excited to offer this community celebration where families and neighbors can come together through the joy of music,” said Alex Martinez, CEO of Lakeland Hills Family YMCA. “This concert reflects our commitment to strengthening community and creating shared experiences that uplift.”

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic-style meals to enjoy during the performance. In case of rain, the concert will be moved indoors.

Admission is free, and registration is suggested. To sign up or learn more, visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com.

CCM and Table of Hope Host Annual Backpack Giveaway for Morris County Families

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM), in partnership with Table of Hope, will once again host its annual Backpack Giveaway to help Morris County families prepare for the upcoming school year. This year’s event will take place on Friday, August 15, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Parking Lot 1 on CCM’s Randolph campus, located at 214 Center Grove Road.

The giveaway is open exclusively to Morris County residents, and pre-registration is encouraged by clicking here. Backpacks containing essential school supplies will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. To maintain safety and efficiency, attendees must remain in their vehicles; walk-ups will not be permitted.

Now in its fifth year, the event reflects CCM’s commitment to community engagement. In addition to this back-to-school initiative, CCM and Table of Hope partner annually for a Thanksgiving food distribution that serves over 600 local families.

“Partnering with Table of Hope for this annual event reflects our commitment to changing lives and strengthening communities,” said CCM President Dr. Anthony J. Iacono. “We are proud to support families by helping ensure children have the tools they need to succeed in school.”

This event is made possible through a strong collaboration of local and state leaders, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Alstede Farms, CCM staff and faculty, corporate sponsors, and a dedicated team of volunteers.

Founded in 2011, Table of Hope is a nonprofit organization based in Morris County, focused on reducing food insecurity and supporting educational needs across the region.

For more information or to donate, visit www.tableofhopenj.org or email [email protected].

Ciattarelli Picks Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon as Running Mate

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Sheriff James Gannon with New Jersey Republican Governor Candidate Jack Ciattarelli at Johnny's in Boonton on Tuesday, July 23. Photo by Chris Illic

BOONTON — Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli has selected Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon as his running mate for lieutenant governor, solidifying a ticket that emphasizes law-and-order leadership and broad crossover appeal.

Gannon, 64, is a decorated law enforcement veteran and three-term sheriff known for his bipartisan respect and strong electoral track record in Morris County. A former Boonton beat cop, Gannon rose through the ranks to become deputy chief of investigations in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, handling more than 120 homicide cases and serving on the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Ciattarelli’s selection of Gannon reinforces his campaign’s public safety message and shores up Republican support in a region where Democrats, including Rep. Mikie Sherrill, have made gains in recent cycles. Notably, Gannon has maintained a cordial relationship with Sherrill, who has praised him across party lines.

The formal announcement was made this morning at 9:30 a.m. at Johnnies Tavern in Boonton, a well-known local gathering spot.

Gannon was chosen over several Republican contenders, including State Senator Holly Schepisi, Assemblyman Michael Inganamort, Middletown Mayor Tony Perry, and Marine Corps veteran Nick De Gregorio. Assemblyman Don Guardian was also under consideration.

A native of Boonton and the son of a decorated NYPD detective, Gannon was raised in a tight-knit Irish-Polish family. His extensive community involvement includes volunteering as a firefighter and EMT, co-founding the Morris County Emerald Society, and dressing as Santa each year for local children. He also created the “Feel Better Bears” initiative with Senator Anthony Bucco to provide comfort to children during police interactions.

Gannon is a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town, which serves the communities of Boonton, Boonton Township, and Mountain Lakes. The Kiwanis mission is: “Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.” His long-standing dedication to youth and community service reflects the values of the organization.

Gannon’s decades-long law enforcement résumé includes involvement in major cases such as the FuncoLand double homicide in Roxbury, the murder of 10-year-old Walter Contreras in Morristown, and the long-unsolved 1982 Rockaway Mall shooting of 16-year-old Christopher Thomas. He also assisted in the FBI investigation of the Sidney Reso kidnapping and murder.

Before becoming sheriff, Gannon served as the global head of security risk at Novartis Pharmaceuticals. He holds degrees from County College of Morris and William Paterson University and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. He currently serves as vice chair of Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital and teaches at Centenary University.

Gannon’s personal life has been marked by loss. His wife of 26 years passed away in 2010 after battling multiple sclerosis. His brother, Superior Court Judge Edward Gannon, died in 2016 just as Jim launched his first sheriff campaign. Their father died in 1993 from cancer.

In 2016, Gannon ran for sheriff after Edward Rochford, the eight-term incumbent, opted not to seek re-election. Gannon won the GOP primary with 65% and defeated Democrat Mark Dombrowski in the general election by more than 41,000 votes, outperforming both Donald Trump and Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen in the county. He won re-election in 2019 and 2022, the latter unopposed.

Under Gannon’s leadership, the sheriff’s office became a model for community policing, mental health crisis response, and addiction services. He launched Hope One, a nationally recognized mobile outreach unit addressing opioid addiction, mental health, and homelessness. His department was among the first in the state to mandate body-worn cameras.

Politically, Gannon has supported fellow Republicans in contested primaries, including State Senator Joe Pennacchio, Assemblyman Jay Webber, and Assemblyman Brian Bergen. This year, he backed Parsippany Mayor James Barberio in a competitive GOP primary.

Gannon is also seeking a fourth term as sheriff in November. Although Democrats did not field a candidate, he may remain on the ballot while running for lieutenant governor—mirroring Sheila Oliver’s dual candidacy in 2017. If elected lieutenant governor, Ciattarelli would appoint a replacement sheriff, subject to Senate confirmation, with a special election held in 2026.

This is Ciattarelli’s second time selecting a running mate. In 2021, he tapped former State Senator Diane Allen in his bid for governor.

Democratic nominee Mikie Sherrill has until July 28 to name her lieutenant governor candidate.

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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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