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Morris County Declares Operation Green Light for Veterans Week

By
Frank Cahill
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The historic Morris County Courthouse, 56 Washington St. in Morristown, is illuminated with green lights at its entrances.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County invites everyone to “Light it Green” from November 4 through Veterans Day on November 11 by shining one or more green lights outside homes, schools or workplaces in honor of the service men and women who stood ready to defend our freedoms.

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners adopted a resolution at its October 22 public meeting declaring the seven days leading up to Veteran’s Day 2025 as Operation Green Light for Veterans Week in Morris County. The Commissioners are urging everyone to join them in a nationwide campaign that honors America’s veterans and raises awareness of county programs available to assist them.

“For generations, Morris County has stood by our veterans and their families. Operation Green Light is one simple but powerful way to show our gratitude — to let our veterans know they are seen, supported and never forgotten,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen.

The seven-day Operation Green Light for Veterans campaign originated through the National Association of Counties (NACo), encouraging counties and communities everywhere to shine green lights as a visible expression of appreciation for our service members. Green represents hope, renewal and forward movement — a symbol of support for the estimated 200,000 service members who transition from the military to civilian life each year, with many facing significant stress and adjustment challenges.

County Buildings to Shine Green

Throughout Veterans Week, several county facilities will be illuminated in green in honor of those who have selflessly served our nation, including:

  • The Veterans Services Office, 540 W. Hanover Ave., Morris Township
  • The Law & Public Safety Complex, 500 W. Hanover Ave., Parsippany-Troy Hills
  • The historic Morris County Courthouse, 56 Washington St., Morristown
  • The Morris County Administration & Records Building, under “the bridge” at 10 Court St., Morristown.
  • The Morris County Office of Temporary Assistance, 340 W. Hanover Ave., Morris Township
  • The Morris County Library, 30 E. Hanover Ave., Whippany
  • The Human Services Complex at 1 Medical Drive, Morris Plains
  • The Morris County 9/11 Memorial, 460 W. Hanover Ave., Parsippany-Troy Hills

How to Participate

Light a Green Bulb: Place a green light in a window, porch, lobby or public area from November 4 through Veterans Day on November 11.

Share & Tag: Post a photo on social media with #OperationGreenLight and mention @MorrisCountyNJ to join the countywide tribute.

Reminder: Upcoming Morris County Veterans Day Ceremony on November 5

Morris County’s commitment to veterans continues with its annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, November 5 at 6:30 p.m. in the Administration and Records Building, 10 Court St., Morristown.

This year’s ceremony will feature the presentation of Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals to seven local veterans, a celebration of the 250th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps, and a special “Morris County Veteran of Valor” tribute honoring Civil War hero Cpl. Charles Fern Hopkins, Sr. — a Medal of Honor recipient, civic leader, and lifelong public servant known as “Boonton’s Grand Old Man.”

The event will also be livestreamed onthe county’s website andFacebook page.

For more than 25 years, Morris County has annually honored local veterans through its Distinguished Military Service Medal program, presented on Memorial Day, Veterans Day and other special occasions. The county also continues to strengthen outreach and support to former service members through its Veteran Services Office, helping veterans of all ages obtain assistance with benefits, housing, employment, health care, transportation programs and more.

To learn more about services and resources available to veterans and their families, visit morriscountynj.gov/veterans.

Morris County to Honor Veterans at Annual Ceremony on November 5

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners invites the public to attend the 2025 Annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, November 5, at 6:30 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Public Meeting Room 555 of the Administration and Records Building, 10 Court Street, Morristown.

This year’s ceremony will feature the presentation of Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals to seven local veterans, acelebration of the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps and a special “Morris County Veteran of Valor” tribute honoring Civil War hero, Cpl. Charles Fern Hopkins, Sr.

The event coincides with Operation Green Light, a nationwide campaign Morris County is supporting this year. From November 4 through November 11, residents, businesses, schools, and local governments are encouraged to display green lights in their homes and workplaces to show appreciation for veterans and raise awareness of the services and support available to them in Morris County.

Veterans Receiving Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals

  • Vincent J. DeCaro, Navy – Morris Plains
  • Christopher Gardner, Army – Morristown
  • Charles E. Johnson, Army/USAR – Dover
  • Robert Litrio, Army – Hanover Township
  • Ronald Pierantozzi, Navy – Pequannock
  • Aniceto Rivera, Army – Boonton Township
  • Samuel Y. Yuen, Navy – Randolph Township

Celebrating the U.S. Marine Corps’ 250th Birthday

In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps, the county commissioners will also honor members of the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve stationed at Picatinny Arsenal.

Morris County Veteran of Valor: Cpl. Charles Fern Hopkins, Sr.

As part of an extra special ceremony this year, a framed Resolution of Honor recognizing a Morris County “Veteran of Valor” will be presented posthumously to Cpl. Charles Fern Hopkins, Sr., a Civil War Medal of Honor recipient, civic leader and lifelong public servantremembered as “Boonton’s Grand Old Man.”

A display outside the Commissioners’ Public Meeting Room will feature artifacts related to Hopkins, including his Medal of Honor, on loan from his great-grandson Charlie Maraziti., who will attend the ceremony to accept the resolution of honor from the Morris County Commissioners.

The public is encouraged to attend and join in honoring the county’s veterans. Guests are advised to arrive early to secure seating.

The event will also be livestreamed on the county’s website and Facebook page.

Jefferson Township – Special Township Council Meeting – October 29, 2025

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township

JEFFERSON — Jefferson Township – Special Township Council Meeting – October 29, 2025.

Click here to download the agenda.

80-Year-Old Lakeland Hills Family YMCA Member Makes History at Ironman World Championship

By
Frank Cahill
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Natalie Grabow

MORRIS COUNTY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA proudly celebrates member Natalie Grabow, who on October 11, became the first 80-year-old woman in U.S. history to complete the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. This grueling 140.6-mile race tests the limits of endurance, strength, and spirit.

Grabow completed the course in 16 hours, 45 minutes, and 26 seconds, conquering a 2.4-mile ocean swim (1:47:41), a 112-mile bike ride (7:51:27), and a 26.2-mile marathon (6:40:11) under intense heat and wind. Her historic finish is a testament to perseverance, focus, and determination.

Leading up to the Ironman World Championship, Grabow trained six days a week, often twice a day. She swam at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, ran on the track around Wilkins Field at Wildwood Elementary School, and spent hours cycling on a stationary bike trainer in her basement, following a structured daily training plan developed by her coach.

Remarkably, Grabow did not learn to swim until she was 59 years old. With determination and encouragement from her YMCA community, she taught herself the basics of swimming and soon started competing in local triathlons. Over the next two decades, she became an elite endurance athlete capable of tackling one of the toughest competitions in the world.

“Movement is an essential part of life if you want to avoid health problems as you age,” said Grabow. “I plan to keep racing for as long as I can.”

Grabow trains regularly at Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, surrounded by a close circle of supportive athletes and friends:

• Katherine Roberts completed the Ironman in Kona alongside Grabow.
• Emily O’Halloran, who recently returned from competing in the Triathlon World Championship in Australia, met Grabow this month and plans to train with her moving forward.
• Angie Dello continues to train with Grabow in the YMCA pool, where friendship, motivation, and community drive every stroke.

Their dedication reflects the spirit of Y, a place where people of all ages and abilities come together to achieve their goals and support one another in the process.

About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA:
Located in Mountain Lakes, NJ, the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is committed to strengthening the community through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Y provides opportunities for people of every age and ability to achieve their goals, connect with others, and belong to something greater.

For more information, visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com.

‘Get Out to Vote’ Initiative Brings Together County Officials and Supporters

By
Frank Cahill
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Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli served as the guest speaker at the “Get Out the Vote” event hosted by Ann Grossi, Morris County Clerk, on Sunday, November 2, at the Governor Morris Hotel in Morristown.

MORRIS COUNTY — The energy was high and the room was filled to capacity as Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi hosted her annual “Get Out to Vote” event on Sunday, November 2, at the Governor Morris Hotel in Morristown.

Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi

The event featured Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli as the guest speaker, drawing local leaders, elected officials, and community members from across the county who gathered in support of civic engagement and voter participation.

Ciattarelli, who previously ran for governor and remains a prominent voice in New Jersey politics, spoke passionately about the importance of voter turnout and the responsibility of every citizen to take part in the democratic process. He emphasized the need for continued community involvement, transparency in government, and restoring trust in leadership.

Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi thanked attendees for their ongoing commitment to civic duty and highlighted her office’s efforts to ensure accessible and secure elections. “Every vote matters, and every voice deserves to be heard,” Grossi said. “Events like this remind us how essential participation is to the foundation of our democracy.”

Guests enjoyed a morning of conversation, networking, and motivation as the countdown to Election Day continued. The enthusiasm in the room reflected a growing momentum among Morris County residents to stay informed and make their voices count at the polls.

Jack Ciattarelli pictured with Former Parsippany Council President Loretta Gragnani, and Morris County Sheriff James Gannon at the Governor Morris Hotel in Morristown.
New Jersey Senator Joe Pennacchio and Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher
Rockaway Township resident Laura Schievella pictured with Rockaway Township Mayor Joe Jackson and his wife, Susanne Jackson.

Rockaway Man Arrested in Denville for Trespassing and Drug Influence

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — A 30-year-old Rockaway resident, Robert Garces, has been arrested and charged following a disorderly persons incident that unfolded on Friday, October 17, 2025.

At approximately 8:00 p.m., Denville Police responded to reports of an individual behaving erratically in the area of Route 46 and Broad Street. The 9-1-1 caller reported the man had been seen running through the backyards of nearby homes and shouting at bystanders.

Upon arrival, officers located the suspect—later identified as Garces—inside a parked vehicle he had unlawfully entered. Following an on-scene investigation, officers determined Garces was under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance.

He was taken into custody without incident and later transported for medical evaluation. Garces has been charged with criminal trespass (N.J.S.A. 2C:18-3A) and being under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10B(1)).

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.

American Red Cross Blood Drive to Be Held at Hanover Township Community Center

By
Frank Cahill
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HANOVER TOWNSHIP — The Hanover Township Office of Emergency Management will host an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Friday, November 14, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Hanover Township Community Center, located at 15 North Jefferson Road.

This life-saving event provides residents with a vital opportunity to support the national blood supply. Blood donors of all types are encouraged to participate. Every donation can help save up to three lives, and the need for blood is constant across hospitals and emergency rooms throughout the region.

Appointments are recommended. Interested donors can call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter the sponsor code “Hanover Township” to schedule a time slot. A flyer with additional details and a QR code is also available to make the scheduling process easier.

Incentives are being offered to donors: those who give blood between October 27 and November 16 will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice, as a thank-you for their generosity.

This event aligns with the American Red Cross’s ongoing mission to maintain a safe and steady blood supply. Community members are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and make a difference.

For more information, visit RedCrossBlood.org or contact the Hanover Township Office of Emergency Management.

Dog-Sitter from Dover Accused of High-End Theft Spree Totaling Over $235K

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

DOVER — A Dover woman has been charged with stealing more than $235,000 worth of luxury goods from a Bernards Township home where she worked as a dog-sitter and babysitter, authorities announced.

Bernards Township Police Chief Timothy King and Deputy Chief Michael Sweeney, along with Somerset County Prosecutor John McDonald and Chief of County Detectives Francisco Roman Jr., reported that Teresa Soraluz, 64, Dover, was arrested and charged with second-degree theft of movable property.

The investigation began in June 2025, when a Bernards Township resident reported the theft of several high-end designer purses, shoes, clothing, and jewelry. Additional thefts of similar items were reported in August, bringing total losses to over $235,000.

Detectives from the Bernards Township Police Department and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Computer Crimes Unit conducted a four-month investigation that identified Soraluz as the suspect. Authorities determined she had been stealing items while working in the victim’s home.

On October 29, 2025, investigators executed a search warrant at Soraluz’s residence, vehicle, and person. They recovered approximately 100 luxury purses, coats, shoes, and jewelry pieces, including around 20 items worth roughly $150,000 that were confirmed to belong to the victim.

Soraluz was taken into custody that same day and lodged at the Somerset County Jail, pending a court appearance.

Chief King and Deputy Chief Sweeney expressed gratitude to the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team for their cooperation in the investigation.

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.

Video: Township of Hanover Committee Meeting – October 23, 2025

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Brian J. Cahill, Michael A. Mihalko, Ronald F. Francioli, John L. Ferramosca, and Thomas "Ace" Gallagher

HANOVER — Township of Hanover Committee Meeting – October 23, 2025.

Click here to download the agenda.

Morris County Prepares for Pause on SNAP Benefits

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County is alerting local authorities and the public to resources identified by the Morris County Department of Human Services to aid families who may need assistance if federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is paused on November 1 due to the federal shutdown.

SNAP and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provide access to nutritional assistance programs for millions of Americans. According to the New Jersey Department of Health, the benefits will be either delayed or unpaid beginning Saturday, November 1, for more than 800,000 New Jersey residents and 17,000 people in Morris County if the federal shutdown continues.

“When times are tough, Morris County steps up to help – and now is one of those times.  As of Saturday, the SNAP program will no longer be funded, leaving 17,000 Morris County residents without the means to purchase food for themselves or their families.  We need your help!  Please consider donating food, grocery gift cards or a financial contribution to your local pantry,” said Commissioner Christine Myers, liaison to Human Services for the seven-member Morris County Board of County Commissioners.

“While we hope the government shutdown ends quickly, we do not know how long it will last.  Those who rely on SNAP benefits will face an increasing financial crisis. Households may be at risk of falling behind on other bills. In helping them, we each need to consider donating food or financial support more than once, for as long as this situation unfolds. Together, we can make a difference,” she added.

The Morris County Department of Human Services, which is working with the county’s major charitable food providers, has posted information about ongoing developments with the potential pause on SNAP and it has identified charitable food providers that have resources for struggling families and are open to contributions from the community.

General information may be found below on the status of SNAP on the county’s Department of Human Services webpage.

Local charitable food resources may be found at the two links below:

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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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