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Hope & Healing: Kiwanis Launches Statewide Conference on Youth Homelessness

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Dashaan Jennings delivers an inspiring keynote at the New Jersey Kiwanis Hope and Healing Conference, sharing his journey of resilience and his advocacy for youth experiencing homelessness.

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey District of Kiwanis held its Inaugural New Jersey Kiwanis Hope and Healing Conference on Thursday, November 6, at Georgian Court University. Developed through the New Jersey Kiwanis Youth Homelessness District Project, the conference brought together youth advocates, agency professionals, and community partners from 18 agencies across the state for a full day of learning, empowerment, and connection.

In the school year 2023-24, 17,315 students in New Jersey were identified as experiencing homelessness.

Endlightment, a program of The Children’s Home Society

The list of community partners included Anchor House, Avanzar, Avanzar – Dream Free, CHS, Collier Youth Services, Dream Free Program, Embrella, Georgian Court University, New Jersey Angels, New Jersey Youth Council, NJ DCF, NJ DCF Youth Council, NJ Kiwanis District of Kiwanis International, NJ Kiwanis Foundation, Oceans Harbor House, One Family One Fight, Inc., Plaid House Inc., Prevent Child Abuse NJ, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Str8up Employment Services/PFPC, The Children’s Home Society of NJ, The Pride Center of New Jersey, and Visions & Pathways.

Kiwanis leaders from across New Jersey gather at Georgian Court University during the inaugural Hope and Healing Conference, standing united in their commitment to supporting youth experiencing homelessness and strengthening community partnerships statewide.

The event featured Keynote Speaker Dashaan Jennings, whose powerful life story set the tone for a day centered on resilience and hope. Dashaan, from Newark, entered foster care at age four and spent his youth navigating New Jersey’s child welfare system until aging out at 21. Despite hardship, he found purpose in his pain, transforming wounds into wisdom. A Kean University graduate and current MPA candidate at Rutgers–Camden, he returned to the same group homes he once lived in, this time as a leader and advocate. He is the founder of STR8UP Employment Services, a DCF consultant, strategist, and devoted father of two. His story embodies resilience and transformation, proving that even broken beginnings can create powerful leaders and change-makers.

Michael Ellithorpe, New Jersey Kiwanis District Project Chair, expressed pride in the collaboration on display. “Our goal has always been to elevate the voices of young people facing housing instability and bring every corner of New Jersey’s support network together. This conference demonstrated what is possible when service organizations, educators, and advocates unite behind a shared mission.”

Attendees participated in workshop sessions and networking opportunities designed for transitionally housed youth, youth-homelessness agency staff, community partners, and Kiwanis members. The event underscored the statewide commitment to addressing youth homelessness through shared purpose and coordinated action.

Frank Cahill, Governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, highlighted the significance of the day. “This conference proved exactly what Kiwanis stands for — hope, action, and partnership. Seeing so many agencies, advocates, and young people in one room reminded us why we remain committed to this project. Youth experiencing homelessness deserve stability, opportunity, and community, and Kiwanis will continue to stand beside them every step of the way.”

To date, the New Jersey Kiwanis Youth Homelessness District Project has generated nearly $40,000 in donations and thousands of volunteer hours, directly supporting agencies serving youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability.

Emily Scharf, President of the New Jersey Kiwanis Foundation, praised the shared commitment that shaped the conference. “The Hope and Healing Conference was the culmination of years of work, collaboration, and compassion across New Jersey. Every attendee — from youth to agency leaders — played a part in creating a space of empowerment and healing. This is only the beginning of what we can accomplish together.”

Kiwanis extended its appreciation to Georgian Court University, guest speakers, sponsoring partners, and the many volunteers who made this inaugural event possible.

About the Kiwanis Youth Homelessness District Project

This multi-year initiative supports agencies throughout New Jersey that serve youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability. The project provides volunteer support, raises essential funds, and builds awareness to help youth thrive.

About Kiwanis

Kiwanis is an international service organization dedicated to serving children, young people, and communities worldwide. The New Jersey District of Kiwanis remains focused on youth-centered service, leadership development, and collaborative outreach to address local needs.

To find a local Kiwanis club in your area, visit joinnjkiwanis.org.

Hanover Officials Announce Deal Ending Extended Agency Stays at Two Motels

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Red Carpet Inn, 1255 Route 10, Cedar Knolls

HANOVER — Hanover Township and JSK Whippany, LLC, the owner of the Red-Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn, signed a Consent Agreement that halts the long-term placement of guests in the hotels through State, county, and local public agencies.

The Township Zoning Department issued the Notice of Violation that led to this Agreement after finding that hotel rooms were being used and occupied in violation of the Township zoning ordinance.

Agreement Halts Long-Term Hotel Placement
The Agreement states, “No guest stay or placement permitted hereunder shall be deemed or intended to establish legal residency in the Township of Hanover for school district attendance or any enrollment.”

Earlier this year, more than 30 families lived in the hotels long-term, raising significant concerns among residents.

Thomas “Ace” Gallagher spearheaded the Township Committee and Administration’s efforts to address these concerns and deliver a solution to this important issue.

Collaborative Response to Community Concerns
Mayor Gallagher emphasized, “We have had incredible support from Senator Pennachio and various State agencies to assist and work on finding homes for these families throughout the State of New Jersey.” State agencies advised town officials that the families in the Scottish Inn and Red Carpet Inn may be completely transitioned from the hotels and placed in other appropriate accommodations by the end of December.

“Notwithstanding the significant support from State officials to place families, the concern of Hanover Township was the backfilling by additional State, county, and local agencies that would be looking to contract and place more families in the hotels, which is not an appropriate long-term environment for these families. These placements also created a significant financial obligation on behalf of the Hanover Township School District and taxpayers of our community.” Mayor Gallagher went on to explain, “Addressing these concerns required preventing any additional extended placement of families in the hotels. This Agreement ensures that no additional families will be added to Hanover Township schools this year.”

Path Ahead for the Township
The Township of Hanover identified the property as a candidate for acquisition or, if necessary, eminent domain, and scheduled a public hearing for December 11, to take a final vote on the ordinance specifically relating to the Red Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn hotels.

Hanover Township extends its gratitude and acknowledges the vital support of the Governing Body and state agencies in achieving this outcome while ensuring families in transition are treated with dignity and care.

Mayor Gallagher concluded, “Many communities and families are struggling with this issue. I am extremely pleased and proud of Hanover Township’s effort and collaboration to be among the first in New Jersey to deliver real results on such sensitive and serious concerns.”

Hanover Officials Announce Deal Ending Extended Agency Stays at Two Motels

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Red Carpet Inn, 1255 Route 10, Cedar Knolls

HANOVER — Hanover Township and JSK Whippany, LLC, the owner of the Red-Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn, signed a Consent Agreement that halts the long-term placement of guests in the hotels through State, county, and local public agencies.

The Township Zoning Department issued the Notice of Violation that led to this Agreement after finding that hotel rooms were being used and occupied in violation of the Township zoning ordinance.

Agreement Halts Long-Term Hotel Placement
The Agreement states, “No guest stay or placement permitted hereunder shall be deemed or intended to establish legal residency in the Township of Hanover for school district attendance or any enrollment.”

Earlier this year, more than 30 families lived in the hotels long-term, raising significant concerns among residents.

Thomas “Ace” Gallagher spearheaded the Township Committee and Administration’s efforts to address these concerns and deliver a solution to this important issue.

Collaborative Response to Community Concerns
Mayor Gallagher emphasized, “We have had incredible support from Senator Pennachio and various State agencies to assist and work on finding homes for these families throughout the State of New Jersey.” State agencies advised town officials that the families in the Scottish Inn and Red Carpet Inn may be completely transitioned from the hotels and placed in other appropriate accommodations by the end of December.

“Notwithstanding the significant support from State officials to place families, the concern of Hanover Township was the backfilling by additional State, county, and local agencies that would be looking to contract and place more families in the hotels, which is not an appropriate long-term environment for these families. These placements also created a significant financial obligation on behalf of the Hanover Township School District and taxpayers of our community.” Mayor Gallagher went on to explain, “Addressing these concerns required preventing any additional extended placement of families in the hotels. This Agreement ensures that no additional families will be added to Hanover Township schools this year.”

Path Ahead for the Township
The Township of Hanover identified the property as a candidate for acquisition or, if necessary, eminent domain, and scheduled a public hearing for December 11, to take a final vote on the ordinance specifically relating to the Red Carpet Inn and Scottish Inn hotels.

Hanover Township extends its gratitude and acknowledges the vital support of the Governing Body and state agencies in achieving this outcome while ensuring families in transition are treated with dignity and care.

Mayor Gallagher concluded, “Many communities and families are struggling with this issue. I am extremely pleased and proud of Hanover Township’s effort and collaboration to be among the first in New Jersey to deliver real results on such sensitive and serious concerns.”

Frank Cahill, Governor of NJ District Kiwanis International, Delivers Winter Jackets to Dover Early Learning Center

By
Anikait Sota
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0
Valerie Kuglin, President of Kiwanis Club of Greater Rockaway, Frank Cahill, Governor NJ District Kiwanis International and Johanny Jimenez, LSW/Family Engagement Specialist

MORRIS COUNTY — With a warm gesture just in time for the colder months, Frank Cahill, Governor of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International, visited the Dover Early Learning Center to deliver brand new winter jackets for students in need personally. The jackets were donated by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

Cahill, who also serves as an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, delivered the jackets as part of the district’s ongoing commitment to community service and childhood well-being. Surrounded by student artwork lining the school walls, he proudly presented a variety of colorful coats, helping ensure local children stay warm and ready to learn this winter season.

“This donation represents what Kiwanis is all about—supporting children and making a positive impact where it’s needed most,” said Cahill. “Every child deserves to be warm, safe, and confident in the classroom.”

The Dover Early Learning Center, which serves pre-K students from the local area, was selected for its outstanding work with young learners and its partnership with organizations that support families in need.

The donation aligns with Kiwanis International’s global mission to serve children through local projects focused on education, health, and essential needs.

For more information on how to support similar initiatives, visit www.kiwanis.org.

Morris County Health Officer Sworn In for Second Term as a State Association President

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Carlos Perez, Morris County Division of Public Health chief health officer, Stephanie Gorman, Morris County Division of Public Health chief health officer and president of the NJACCHO, and Deena Leary, Morris County administrator.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners congratulates Stephanie Gorman, a health officer in the Morris County Division of Public Health, on being sworn in for her second consecutive term as president of the New Jersey Association of County and City Health Officials (NJACCHO).

Gorman took the oath of office during the NJACCHO General Membership Meeting at the Atlantic City Convention Center, held in conjunction with the New Jersey League of Municipalities Conference, where Commissioner Douglas Cabana, liaison to the Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety, administered the oath. Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Commissioners Christine Myers and John Krickus, Sheriff James Gannon and Undersheriff Mark Spitzer also attended.

Commissioner Douglas Cabana administers the oath of office to Stephanie Gorman.

“We’re proud to have Stephanie representing Morris County again as NJACCHO president,” said Commissioner Cabana. “Her continued leadership at both the county and state levels reflects our commitment to public health and to advancing critical initiatives statewide.”

NJACCHO represents public health leaders from 104 health departments in New Jersey’s 21 counties and 565 municipalities. For more than 113 years, the association has supported community health by promoting wellness, preventing disease and protecting residents, visitors and workers across the state. Gorman has been a member of NJACCHO since 2014 and has served on its board of directors since 2018.

“Stephanie’s leadership has strengthened our local and state health systems. Her reappointment as NJACCHO president recognizes her achievements and her ability to guide New Jersey’s public health community through complex challenges,” said Carlos Perez, chief health officer in Morris County Division of Public Health.

Gorman described her past term as “one of the most challenging, unpredictable, exhausting, yet inspiring years of her career.” She noted that NJACCHO expanded key partnerships throughout the state, advanced 21C public health modernization efforts, protected essential grant funding and completed the state’s first comprehensive costing model, providing a critical foundation for understanding and investment in core public health services.

“Our voices are being heard, our work is being recognized and 21C is finally gaining momentum,” Gorman said, calling the association’s progress a reflection of “resilience, leadership and the unwavering commitment of local public health leaders.”

Looking ahead, she said her next term will be pivotal as New Jersey navigates another period of transition and prepares for major statewide responsibilities, including the 2026 World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary. These events, she noted, underscore the need for a strong, coordinated local public health system and the urgency of sustaining momentum in statewide preparedness and support for New Jersey’s governmental public health network.

“This is our moment to solidify the value of local public health,” said Gorman, reaffirming her commitment to advancing NJACCHO’s strategic goals and strengthening member representation and engagement.

Hanover Wind Symphony and Morris Music Men Present Free Holiday Concert

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Preparing for the upcoming “Holidays in Hanover” concert are Hanover Wind Symphony members Phil Hughes of Whippany, a tuba player and past president of the Hanover Wind Symphony; Gail Lalk of Morristown, who plays the French horn; and Marisa Raczynski of Stockholm, a bassoonist.

HANOVER — The Hanover Wind Symphony and the Morris Music Men will present a free holiday concert, Holidays in Hanover: Wassailing Through Hanover, at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 14. The concert will be held at Memorial Junior School, located at 61 Highland Avenue.

“Please join the Hanover Wind Symphony and the Morris Music Men as we go ‘wassailing’ through the early American village of Hanover,” said Matthew Paterno, a Parsippany resident and the musical director and conductor of the Hanover Wind Symphony. “Hear the music of the holidays as you might have heard it in the houses and on the street corners of our special town.”

The concert program will feature a mix of early American carols, beloved holiday favorites, and some surprises. Selections include:

  • “Joy to the World” — Traditional, arranged by William Silvester
  • “Celtic Carol” — Traditional, arranged by Robert W. Smith
  • “The First Noel” — Traditional, arranged by Yukiko Nishimura

The event is open to the public and suitable for all ages. No tickets are required.

Whippany Presbyterian Church Hosting Friendsgiving Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

HANOVER — Whippany Presbyterian Church will host its annual Friendsgiving Spaghetti Dinner Mission Fundraiser on Sunday, November 23, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The dinner features all-you-can-eat spaghetti with a choice of homemade meat or marinara sauce, along with salad, rolls, beverages, and dessert. Guests are encouraged to bring friends and enjoy a warm community gathering ahead of the holiday season.

Prices

  • Adults: $12.00
  • Children/Seniors: $8.00

Advance reservations can be made at www.youthfpcwhippany.org, and tickets may also be purchased during fellowship hour.

Attendees are also reminded: Don’t forget to order your sauce for the holidays!

Morris County Division of Mosquito Control Hiring Inspector Trainee

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Department of Public Works, Division of Mosquito Control, is currently accepting applications for the position of Inspector Trainee, Mosquito Extermination.

This entry-level role offers a unique opportunity to serve the public by helping reduce mosquito populations and associated health risks. Under supervision, the trainee will learn to identify and monitor mosquito breeding habitats—such as ditches, swamps, and areas with stagnant water—and apply appropriate chemical or biological controls to help manage infestations.

Responsibilities include:

  • Performing field inspections in a variety of outdoor environments.
  • Learning to apply mosquito control treatments safely and effectively.
  • Responding to service calls and inquiries from Morris County residents.

Qualifications:
Applicants must possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license. Candidates should be prepared to work outdoors in all weather conditions and must be capable of reading maps, keeping detailed records, and communicating clearly with the public. Successful applicants must become licensed Pesticide Applicators.

Location:
Morris County Public Works – Mosquito Control Division
Highview Avenue, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in public health, environmental work, or field science to launch a meaningful career.

Hanover Recreation Hosts Indoor Winter Wonderland Celebration

By
Frank Cahill
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0

HANOVER — The Township of Hanover Recreation Department will kick off the holiday season with its annual Winter Wonderland celebration on Friday, December 12, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Hanover Township Community Center, 15 North Jefferson Road in Whippany.

This year’s event will be held entirely indoors, transforming the Community Center into a festive Winter Wonderland Village complete with cheerful holiday décor, themed craft stations, and warm hot chocolate courtesy of Hanover Township PBA Local 128.

Children are encouraged to create take-home holiday crafts and bring their Letters for Santa. Parents are asked to ensure each letter includes the child’s full name and mailing address so Santa can send a response.

Adding to the excitement, a very special guest will make an appearance at 7:00 p.m., giving families even more holiday magic to look forward to. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy all activities before the guest’s arrival.

To support local families during the holiday season, the Recreation Department will be collecting new, unwrapped toys, along with canned foods and other non-perishable items. Donations are welcomed but not required.

For those who want to experience the decorations at a more relaxed pace, the Winter Wonderland Village will remain open for walk-through viewing over the weekend:

• Saturday, December 13: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

• Sunday, December 14: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

This cozy indoor celebration offers residents of all ages an enjoyable way to embrace the holiday spirit close to home.

Gov.-Elect Mikie Sherrill to Resign CD11 Seat on November 20

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill

MORRIS COUNTY — Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill announced that she will resign her seat representing New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District effective 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, November 20.

Sherrill, who has represented CD11 since 2019, won the November 4 gubernatorial election and will be sworn in as New Jersey’s next governor on January 20, 2026. Her resignation initiates the formal vacancy process for one of the most closely watched congressional districts in the state.

A Major Transition for CD11

In her resignation letter, Sherrill said it has been an honor to serve the people of the 11th District. Throughout her tenure, she focused heavily on infrastructure improvements, flood-mitigation funding, transportation needs, and federal support for North Jersey communities.

Once her resignation takes effect, the seat becomes officially vacant. Under New Jersey law, the sitting governor must issue a writ of election to schedule a special primary and special general election to fill the remainder of her term.

Candidates Already Lining Up

Several candidates have already announced their campaigns to succeed Sherrill.

Democrats:

  • John Bartlett, Passaic County Commissioner and voting-rights attorney, who entered the race with strong early fundraising.
  • Jeff Grayzel, Morris Township Deputy Mayor.
  • Cammie Croft, nonprofit executive and former federal official.
  • Tom Malinowski, former U.S. Congressman.
  • Brendan Gill, Essex County Commissioner.

Republicans:

  • Joe Hathaway, Mayor of Randolph.

The growing lineup underscores the importance of CD11 and the high stakes surrounding the upcoming special election.

Impact on the District

The 11th District covers communities across Morris, Passaic, and Essex counties, making it a significant voice for North Jersey in Washington. With ongoing concerns such as transit funding, infrastructure upgrades, flood control, and regional federal support, residents will be watching closely to see how the transition impacts local priorities.

The special election to fill the seat will play a major role in shaping the future direction of the district.

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