Learn more at the 2025 Regional College Fair on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 12-3 p.m., at CCM, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph
RANDOLPH — Explore your college options and discover programs that can launch your career at the Morris County Regional College Fair, hosted by County College of Morris (CCM) on Sunday, September 14, from Noon to 3:00 p.m. at CCM. The campus is located at 214 Center Grove Road in Randolph, with parking available in lots 7 and 8. This free, one-stop event allows students and families to meet with the CCM admissions team, as well as representatives from more than 125 colleges and universities from the tri-state area, New England, Mid-Atlantic and beyond.
CCM offers accessible, affordable higher education with more than 100 academic programs of study. Options include short-term, industry-recognized certifications that can be completed in as little as six weeks, and dozens of associate degrees that transfer seamlessly to four-year schools, helping students succeed with minimal to no debt. The fair provides the opportunity to learn about the many career pathways, ranging from business to healthcare to engineering and advanced manufacturing.
Be sure to stop by CCM’s table to learn about the college’s strong transfer partnerships. Each year, many of the 1,000 graduates continue their studies at top four-year institutions, earning a bachelor’s degree at a fraction of the cost. As the community’s college, CCM strives to provide a flexible, less overwhelming and supportive environment, giving students the time to adjust to college life and explore all interests before committing to a more expensive four-year program.
The 2025 Regional College Fair is co-sponsored by CCM, the Morris County Association of School Counseling Directors and the New Jersey Association of College Admissions Counseling.
Young musicians will take center stage at School of Rock Parsippany’s grand opening, showcasing the confidence and creativity that come from the school’s performance-based music education program.
PARSIPPANY — School of Rock, the leader in performance-based music education, is set to open its newest location in Parsippany on Sunday, September 7, with a grand celebration from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. at 200 Route 46.
The event will feature live performances from School of Rock students, staff, and adult musicians, along with family-friendly attractions including face painting, a tie-dye shirt booth, and participation from local vendors. At 12:00 Noon, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held with Mayor James Barberio, Township Council Members, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill, and members of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.
The new school is owned by Robert Corbi, a lifelong music lover who was inspired by the power of music to connect and uplift communities. “At School of Rock Parsippany, we’re building confidence, creativity, and community,” said Corbi. “Watching our students grow as musicians and people is what makes our school so special. Nothing is more important to us than being a positive influence in Parsippany, and we can’t wait to give back.”
Corbi, a commercial real estate broker by profession, grew up playing guitar and falling in love with his parents’ Beatles and Beach Boys records. Now, as a father of two young children, he has seen firsthand the importance of exposing kids to art, music, and creative learning environments early in life.
“School of Rock’s unique approach doesn’t just teach kids to play, it gives them friendships, confidence, and a love for music that lasts a lifetime,” he added.
School of Rock Parsippany offers programs for all skill levels and age groups, from children as young as three to adults. Students receive weekly one-on-one instruction on guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, or vocals, and rehearse together in groups that culminate in live performances at real venues.
School of Rock Parsippany is preparing to welcome children, teens, and families for its grand opening celebration on Sunday, September 7, featuring live music, face painting, and fun activities.
“Robert’s passion for music, combined with his commitment to family and community, makes him an outstanding addition to the School of Rock family,” said Stacey Ryan, President of School of Rock. “We’re excited to see him bring our unique performance-based music education to Parsippany and create a space where students can build confidence, creativity, and lifelong friendships.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Chairman Frank Cahill added, “We welcome School of Rock to Parsippany with open arms. This grand opening represents more than just a new business — it’s an investment in our children, our families, and the arts. Music brings people together, and School of Rock will strengthen the cultural heartbeat of our community.”
Hebo Equities CEO Hershy Tannenbaum, UPS Division Manager Rhonda Ward, and retiring UPS driver Albert Wright celebrated Wright’s 36 years of dedicated service during a special retirement tribute at the Fairfield Business Center.
MORRIS COUNTY — In a remarkable tribute to a lifetime of service, Jewish entrepreneur and philanthropist Hershy Tannenbaum, CEO of Hebo Equities and asset manager of the Fairfield Business Center, hosted a grand retirement celebration for longtime UPS driver Albert Wright, who has faithfully served the Fairfield community for 36 years.
The event, held at the Fairfield Business Center, drew the participation of the entire business community. It was a warm testament to Wright’s decades of dedication and the profound impact he has had on countless individuals and businesses.
The recognition extended beyond Fairfield. The Governor of New Jersey sent a heartfelt letter praising Wright’s tireless service, while the CEO of UPS sent a special gift to commemorate his extraordinary career.
Adding to the uniqueness of the occasion, Albert’s wife, Mrs. Onieda Wright, is also retiring this year after 36 years of her own career, marking a rare and inspiring milestone of joint dedication and achievement.
Friends, co-workers, and members of the Fairfield Business Center gathered to celebrate retiring UPS driver Albert Wright, honoring his 36 years of dedicated service with laughter, memories, and heartfelt appreciation.
Mr. Tannenbaum shared his admiration for Wright during the event, saying, “It’s a privilege to honor this dedicated individual and his remarkable career. Albert is no ordinary UPS driver. With every delivery, he brought a warm smile, a gentle word, and a kind greeting. Sprinkled with humor, Albert uplifted the spirit of those he encountered, making him an unforgettable human being.”
The celebration was more than a retirement party — it was a fitting tribute to a man who has become a beloved fixture of the community, whose daily presence will be remembered long after the last package was delivered.
Jack Ciattarelli, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Christine Myers, and Dover Council candidate Maria Rosario at Rosario’s fundraising event in Dover.
DOVER — Maria Rosario, candidate for Dover Town Council in Ward 3, continues to gain broad support as she campaigns to represent her community. At her recent fundraising event held on Sunday, August 30, at Tierras y Sabores, Rosario was joined by a diverse group of leaders and community members who came out to show their encouragement.
Among those in attendance were New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, Assemblyman Christian Barranco, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Mayor James Dodd, Morris County Commissioner Doug Cabana and Christine Myer, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella.
Rosario also received support from former Dover Mayor Carolyn Blackman, former 4th Ward Council candidate Dennis Touhey, gay rights activist Mari Chacón, former Boonton Councilman Joe Bock, and many local residents who believe in her vision for Ward 3.
The afternoon served as both a fundraiser and an opportunity for the community to hear directly from Ciattarelli, who emphasized lowering property taxes, reforming the school funding formula, improving public safety, and reducing utility costs. He also engaged residents in conversation on immigration, housing, and small business issues.
Rosario thanked her supporters for standing with her and pledged to be a strong, independent voice for Ward 3.
JEFFERSON — The Jefferson Township Community Chorus is inviting singers of all ages and experience levels to join them as they prepare for their upcoming holiday concert, “A Family Christmas.”
Rehearsals for the festive program will begin on Tuesday, September 9, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Jefferson Township High School chorus room. The community chorus is known for bringing neighbors together through music, and this year’s holiday performance promises to celebrate the joy and tradition of the season.
Singers are encouraged to reach out on social media or connect with a current chorus member to be added to the group’s email list for rehearsal music and updates.
The Jefferson Township Community Chorus has long been a welcoming space for residents to share their voices, make new friendships, and spread holiday cheer. With “A Family Christmas” on the horizon, the group is excited to welcome new participants and create a memorable concert for the community.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Jefferson Township Council Meeting to be held September 3. This meeting is called pursuant to the provisions of the Open Public Meetings Law. This meeting of September 3, 2025 was included in a list of meetings notice sent to the official newspapers of the Township, the Daily Record and the Star Ledger, on January 8, 2025 and was posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building on January 8, 2025 and has remained continuously posted as the required notices under the Statute. In addition, a copy of this notice is and has been available to the public and is on file in the office of the Municipal Clerk.
Madison High School Key Club members assist Kiwanis volunteers in serving pretzels, ice cream, and refreshments to students during the Chatham Library’s Annual Young Readers Picnic.
CHATHAM — The Chatham Library’s Annual Young Readers Picnic returned on Thursday, August 14, drawing hundreds of children, teens, and families for an afternoon of celebration, treats, and community spirit. Held each summer as the culmination of the library’s Summer Reading Club, this year’s picnic welcomed more than 300 students who participated in the reading program, along with their families and neighbors.
Kiwanis members wrapped the Philly pretzels with care, lending their hands and hearts to support the event while sharing the true spirit of community service.
This year’s event was made possible with the help of many members from the Kiwanis Club of the Chathams and Madison, who volunteered their time and energy. Those in attendance included Marge Ahrens, Gary Arnesen, Pat Arnesen, Karen Brodsky, Frank Cahill, Neil Cooperman, Stephanie Cooperman, Mary Beth Gabel, Art Harper, Judy Harper, Mary Anne Maloney, Justin Montanaro, Joe Murphy, David Mutchler, Shirley Mutchler, Karen Shippey, and Stu Shippey.
Five members of the Madison High School Key Club teamed up with Kiwanis volunteers to hand out Philly Pretzel Factory pretzels, ice cream, sherbets, and water during the Chatham Library’s Annual Young Readers Picnic.
Joining them were five members of the Madison High School Key Club, who assisted the Kiwanians in handing out soft Philly Pretzel Factory pretzels, small water bottles, ice cream cups, and colorful sherbets—each neatly wrapped or served with paper napkins. The Kiwanis Club also generously purchased the Philly Pretzels, ice cream, and water for the event, adding a true taste of Philadelphia tradition to the afternoon.
The preparation began early, as Stu and Karen Shippey, along with David Mutchler, set up the tent and organized the serving table. Mutchler delivered four large boxes of giant soft pretzels, which were carefully separated, wrapped, and placed on trays. Gary and Pat Arnesen transported more than 200 assorted ice cream cups and sorbets, which, along with chilled water bottles, were kept in coolers packed with ice to beat the summer heat.
The turnout reflected the popularity of the program, with 309 children, teens, and adults attending the picnic. Chatham Library Director Karen Brodsky expressed her gratitude to the Kiwanis volunteers, writing, “It was so nice to see so many members of the Kiwanis Club at the picnic. An official thanks will come from Youth Services Head Jaime Sabonye in the near future.” Brodsky also shared the impressive results of the library’s summer reading program: 537 kids collectively read 10,097 books this summer.
Frank Cahill, Governor-Elect of the NJ District Kiwanis International, praised the event’s impact on the community: “There’s no better way to encourage young readers than by gathering together—pretzel in hand—to celebrate their achievements. Events like this remind us that when Kiwanis partners with our schools and libraries, we help build not only better readers but stronger communities.”
Kiwanis Club of Chatham and Madison President Stephanie Cooperman said, “I was absolutely delighted to see how warmly the children and their parents embraced this year’s Picnic For Young Readers. The weather could not have been better, and the pretzels, water, ice creams, and sherbets were enjoyed by all. What made the day so special was not only the excitement of the kids, but also the tremendous effort of the library staff in preparing everything in advance. It was a wonderful celebration of reading, community, and summer fun. Thank you to everyone who helped make it possible—I look forward to seeing you all again in August 2026!”
The Chatham Library’s Young Readers Picnic continues to be a highlight of the summer, bringing together volunteers, students, and families to celebrate both community and the love of reading.
MORRIS COUNTY — Macie and Mackley are just 8 months old—still babies, full of sweetness, innocence, and boundless love. But instead of knowing the joy of a warm bed, gentle hands, and a family’s embrace, their young lives began in heartbreak. Born in the South, they were cruelly dumped at a shelter, left unwanted and unseen.
Now their fate hangs in the balance. The shelter where they wait is a high-kill facility, and every day could be their last. These two siblings—playful, wiggly, and full of life—are on borrowed time. They have never truly experienced the world, never run free in a yard of their own, never curled up at night knowing they are safe.
Macie and Mackley adore everyone they meet. Their tails wag with hope, their eyes shine with trust, and they are desperate for the chance to love a family as deeply as only dogs can. We dream of seeing them adopted together, but they are also available individually—anything to save their precious lives.
They are healthy, up to date on vaccinations, and ready for the journey north if it means finding the forever home that will finally give them the life they deserve. With each passing day, the clock ticks louder. They need us.
Please—help us save Macie and Mackley before it’s too late.
To adopt, contact Heather Darling at [email protected], visit Facebook, or connect on Instagram @realheatherdarling.
Kids at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA dive into fall with energy, creativity, and fun during youth programs open to both members and non-members.
MORRIS COUNTY — Fall is around the corner, and the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is ready to kick off a season full of energy, creativity, and community with the launch of Fall Registration for youth programs. Whether your child is eager to move, build, create, or explore, the Y has something for every age and interest—and best of all, programs are open to both members and non-members!
Here’s a sample of what is happening this fall:
Dance Academy: From beginner ballet to acro dance, we offer a complete range of dance classes for all skill levels. Whether your child is twirling for the first time or ready to take the stage, we’ve got the perfect class!
Dodgeball, Jr. & Sr. Parkour, and Homeschool Gym: Keep kids active and engaged with high-energy favorites designed to build physical strength, teamwork, and fun.
Science & Arts Lab: Dive into tech and creativity with classes like Scratch Coding, Tinkercad, App Creation, and Design Workshops. Whether your child is a budding engineer or artist, this is the place to spark new passions.
Pokémon Card Program: Got a Pokémon fan at home? This new offering gives kids a space to trade, play, and learn strategy in a welcoming environment.
Swim, Gym & Fun: For toddlers and preschoolers, our beloved prep-for-preschool program builds skills through active play and social interaction. Choose from 1- or 2-day options.
Kids Night Out: Parents, we’ve got you covered! Enjoy an evening to yourself while your kids have a blast in a safe, supervised setting at the Y.
Birthday Parties: Now Better Than Ever! We’ve revamped our birthday party packages to make celebrating easier than ever. With exciting themes and convenient add-ons like pizza and cake, the Y is your one-stop party place!
From sports and STEM to social clubs and skill-building, there’s something for everyone this season. Don’t wait—spots fill quickly!
About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA Rooted in community, the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA offers inclusive programs that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our doors are open to all, and we work to ensure every child and family has the opportunity to thrive—regardless of membership status.
Morris County holds its sixth annual Overdose Awareness Day ceremony on August 28, at One Medical Drive in Parsippany. Families who lost loved ones to substance use or fentanyl poisoning were recognized.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County officials, families of overdose victims and service providers recognized the 24th International Overdose Awareness Day by gathering today on the lawn of the Morris County Central Avenue Complex, where they remembered lost lives and raised awareness of the worldwide opioid crisis.
The event, organized by the county Division of Community & Behavioral Health Services, marked the sixth consecutive year Morris County has observed Overdose Awareness Day, which is recognized annually on August 31. The ceremony also recognized Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Day, observed every July 14, and featured personal reflections from family members who have lost loved ones to overdose as well as individuals who shared their journeys of sobriety and recovery.
“Morris County has seen a steady decline in overdose tragedies since 2017, but it is important to stay vigilant, because behind every statistic is a son, a daughter, a friend or a loved one — and the fight to protect people from this crisis is never over,” said Commissioner Christine Myers. “The county has invested $820,000 in opioid settlement funds over the past two years to support prevention, Narcan training and recovery services. These efforts are saving lives.”
State Sen. Anthony Bucco, who sponsored legislation designating August 31 as Overdose Awareness Day in New Jersey in 2020, delivered opening remarks.
“Addiction does not have to end in tragedy. Help and hope are always possible,” said Sen. Bucco. “Morris County immediately jumped in after the legislation was passed, starting programs and bringing us back year after year to remember — and to work for a day when substance abuse is a thing of the past.”
Nationally, overdose deaths have declined in recent years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2024, 80,391 lives were lost to overdose, down 27 percent from 110,037 in 2023.
“Morris County has made progress, but human lives are precious and all are worth rescuing. Our work here is a life-saving mission, and we must continue to see a reduction in these tremendous losses,” said Sheriff James Gannon. “I am so proud of all our efforts, from Hope One to our many partnerships, but today I especially want to recognize Cpl. Erica Valvano, the ‘Mother of Hope One.’ Erica has saved many of the lives included in that progress. This is timely and coincidental today, as Erica works her last day here in Morris County — I want to thank her for the direct and incredible impact she has made!”
Carol Egan, Morris County Human Services Director Kasey Errico, Commissioner Christine Myers and Sen. Anthony Bucco.
Morris County Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron Tomasini also spoke at the event, highlighting law enforcement’s ongoing efforts to address the opioid crisis. The county’s response is supported by partnerships among county departments, law enforcement agencies and more than 75 service providers. Key initiatives include the Sheriff’s Office Re-Entry Program, Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI), Community Connections, the Hope One mobile unit, Hope Hub, Navigating Hope (a mobile outreach program run by the Morris County Department of Human Services and Family Promise of Morris County), the Mental Health Association of Morris County and the county’s Overdose Fatality Review Team.
Narcan, an over-the-counter drug that reverses opioid overdoses, has also played a critical role in saving lives. Since 2017, the Hope One team has distributed nearly 12,000 Narcan kits, with 185 reported uses to save or attempt to save lives. The program has made more than 1,800 referrals to recovery and support services, and its model has been replicated in ten other counties.
Law enforcement officials continue to face challenges from synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and xylazine. Fentanyl, which is increasingly mixed with xylazine — an animal tranquilizer resistant to Narcan — has become dominant in the illicit drug market.
“In New jersey, the crisis keeps evolving. Pills became heroin, heroin became fentanyl, and now we see fentanyl mixed with other poisons,” said Brad Seabury, Morris County Chief Assistant Prosecutor. “Just recently, about three-quarters of opioids seized here in Morris County contained xylazine.”
Seabury noted that Narcan has played a critical role in saving lives. Law enforcement officers reversed 162 overdoses in 2022, 144 in 2023, 96 in 2024 and 39 so far this year.
“The trend is encouraging,” he said. “It means lives are being saved, and fewer emergency calls are ending in tragedy.”
The ceremony concluded with a remembrance led by Carol Egan, founder of the Global Recovery Movement, who has been a leader in prevention efforts for more than three decades. An opening prayer was offered by Pastor Chuck Corradino of Butler Church of the Nazarene, and Rabbi Moshe Rudin of Adath Shalom in Parsippany closed the ceremony.
The annual ceremony serves as a solemn reminder of the ongoing struggle against addiction and the need for continued compassion, action and community support.
