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Lakeland Hills YMCA and Allegro Academy to Host Global-Themed Outdoor Summer Concert

By
Frank Cahill
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MOUNTAIN LAKES — Residents from Parsippany and surrounding communities are invited to enjoy an evening of music, culture, and community spirit as the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA teams up with Allegro: The Music Shop Academy for their Outdoor Summer Concert on Thursday, August 7 at 6:30 p.m. The event will take place at the YMCA’s scenic outdoor venue located at 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes.

This free community concert promises to be more than just an ordinary summer performance. Titled “Showcasing Pieces That Take You Around the World,” the evening features global-inspired selections designed to transport the audience through a musical journey across continents and cultures.

Two standout performances are scheduled:

  • Sizzling Strings in the Water, presented by the Sizzling Strings performance group, and
  • Traveling with Summer Encore, performed by the Summer Encore Group.

Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair, snacks, and their favorite beverages to create a picnic-style experience on the lawn. The event is family-friendly and open to all ages, making it a perfect opportunity for residents of Parsippany and nearby towns to connect and celebrate local youth talent.

“This concert showcases not just our students’ musical skills, but their ability to share stories and emotions through global rhythms and melodies,” said a representative from Allegro. “We’re proud to bring this cultural experience to the community in partnership with Lakeland Hills YMCA.”

The event is free, but registration is recommended. To sign up or learn more, visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com.

Whether you’re a music lover, a supporter of local arts, or simply looking for a memorable night out, the Outdoor Summer Concert promises a vibrant evening of inspiration and entertainment in the heart of Morris County.

Andrew Barrasso Named to Spring 2025 Dean’s Honor Roll at University of Mississippi

By
Frank Cahill
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MOUNTAIN LAKES — Andrew Barrasso, a resident of Mountain Lakes, has been named to the University of Mississippi’s Spring 2025 Dean’s Honor Roll.

Barrasso, who is majoring in Accountancy, earned this recognition by achieving a semester grade point average between 3.50 and 3.74. To qualify for the Dean’s Honor Roll, students must complete at least 12 graded hours for the semester and must not be on academic probation.

The University of Mississippi—commonly known as Ole Miss—is the state’s flagship institution and a member of the elite R1: Doctoral Universities group, reflecting the highest level of research activity. The university includes 16 academic divisions, among them nationally recognized schools of accountancy, law, and pharmacy, along with a distinguished Honors College. Its main campus, located in Oxford, is consistently ranked among the nation’s top college towns.

Congratulations to Andrew Barrasso on this academic achievement.

Burglary Ring Busted: Four in Custody After Hanover Township Incident

By
Frank Cahill
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The Morris County Correctional Facility, located at 43 John Street in Morris Township, serves as the primary detention center operated by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

HANOVER — On Monday, June 23, 2025, at approximately 11:14 a.m., Hanover Township Police responded to a reported burglary at a Reynolds Avenue residence. A witness observed individuals entering the rear of the home and provided crucial suspect and vehicle descriptions.

Responding officers quickly located a vehicle matching the witness’s description and stopped it while additional officers confirmed forced entry at the residence. Coordinating with the team at the traffic stop, police arrested all four vehicle occupants.

Authorities confirmed that only four suspects were involved. After a thorough perimeter search and investigation, all were taken into custody and transported to the Morris County Correctional Center.

The suspects—Florin Coman, 23, of Renton, WA; Roberto Dobrescu, 35, of Glendale, NY; Robert Stoica, 35, of Brooklyn, NY; and Francisco Vaduva, 30, of Federal Way, WA—face charges of burglary, conspiracy, criminal trespass, criminal mischief, and possession of burglary tools. All four are also wanted in other states for similar offenses and will undergo extradition proceedings.

The Hanover Township Police Department thanked Morris Plains Police, Morristown Police, Parsippany Police, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office for their support. Residents in the area are encouraged to check home surveillance systems for any activity involving the suspects and to contact Hanover Township Police at (973) 428-2512 with any information.

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.

District 15Fifteen Unveils Growing Lineup of Retail and Restaurant Tenants

By
Frank Cahill
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A Burtons Grill & Bar typically spans ~6,200 sq ft, seats ~200 guests inside and ~40 outside, combines an open, exhibition-style kitchen with a central bar, offers a blend of communal, booth, and private seating, and dedicates about one-third of its space to kitchen and service operations.

MORRIS COUNTY — District 15Fifteen, Parsippany, has announced a slate of new retail and restaurant tenants set to open in 2025 or early 2026. Seven additional leases totaling over 15,000 square feet are nearing finalization. Retail opportunities ranging from 1,200 to 6,000 square feet remain available.

The development features 58,600 square feet of commercial space and quickly becomes a culinary and lifestyle hub. Confirmed tenants include:

  • Kura Revolving Sushi Bar – A tech-driven Japanese dining experience where fresh sushi arrives via conveyor belt and is served tableside.
  • Burtons Grill & Bar – A polished American restaurant with 22 locations nationwide, offering scratch-made dishes, allergy-friendly menus, and exceptional service.
  • Meximodo – A trendy Mexican concept from LeMalt Hospitality Group, famed for its Guinness World Record tequila collection.
  • Al-Basha – A Middle Eastern and Mediterranean restaurant previously recognized by USA Today.
  • Haraz Coffee House – A specialty coffee shop known for authentic Yemeni coffee and fresh, flavorful offerings.
  • Brunswick Burger House – A new burger and chicken concept from the Dream Big restaurant group.
  • Moxie Salon and Beauty Bar – New Jersey’s largest full-service salon and beauty destination.

With its strategic location and dynamic mix of tenants, District 15Fifteen continues to shape a new downtown for Parsippany.

Cooling Centers Open in Morris County

By
Frank Cahill
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Residents Urged to Take Precautions During Extreme Heat Warning

The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning through Wednesday June 24 until 8 p.m. with temperatures of up 100 degrees.

Stay safe from the heat by drinking plenty of water and staying indoors. If you see someone suffering from a heat emergency, call 911. 

Signs and symptoms of heat-related illness include: high body temperature (103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher); hot, red, dry, or damp skin; a fast, strong pulse; a headache, dizziness, nausea and/or confusion, and losing consciousness.

The Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming reminds senior citizens and vulnerable Morris County residents that the level of heat and humidity expected may cause heat stress during outdoor exertion or extended exposure.

Residents are encouraged to check on elderly family members and neighbors during this time. Please do not leave children, adults or pets in vehicles.

If you are having difficulty dealing with the heat, please check with your municipal Office of Emergency Management or police department in each of the county’s 39 towns to find a cooling shelter in your community.  You also can call NJ 211.

The Morris County Office of Emergency Management will closely monitor the excessive heat advisory and coordinate with municipalities to offer any needed assistance over the next few days.

If you have not already done so, please take the time to register with Smart 911, a free emergency call service available to Morris County residents that provides first responders key information about you and your family members during an emergency.

South River Man Arrested for Burglary in Denville

By
Frank Cahill
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0
The Morris County Correctional Facility, located at 43 John Street in Morris Township, serves as the primary detention center operated by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

DENVILLE — A South River man was arrested on Saturday, June 21, following a reported motor vehicle burglary on Hillcrest Drive, according to the Denville Police Department.

At approximately 8:12 a.m., officers responded to the area after receiving a report of a burglary in progress. While en route, officers located a vehicle and driver matching the description provided by the caller. The driver, identified as 39-year-old Roman Chkheidze, was stopped by responding officers.

Further investigation revealed that Chkheidze had active warrants issued by an outside agency. He was taken into custody without incident and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing. He has since been charged in connection with the burglary and was transferred to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where he remains held pending a court appearance.

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.

Denville Police Arrest Local Teen in Assault Investigation

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

DENVILLE — The Denville Police Department has arrested a 19-year-old resident, Kaiden Kot, in connection with an assault that occurred on June 12, 2025, at 123 East Main Street.

Following notification of the incident on June 14, detectives initiated a prompt investigation which led to the identification of Kot as the suspect. He later reported voluntarily to Denville Police Headquarters, where he was taken into custody without incident.

Kot was processed and released pending a court appearance, as per standard procedures. He has been charged with assault.

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.

Jefferson Township Council to Hold Regular Meeting on June 25

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP —The Jefferson Township Council will convene for its Regular Meeting on Wednesday, June 25, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Building, located at 1033 Weldon Road, Lake Hopatcong.

Click here to download the agenda.

The meeting will include a public hearing and vote on Ordinance #25-15, which authorizes a $1.5 million special emergency appropriation for the complete revaluation of all real property in the township, as ordered by the Morris County Board of Taxation.

Also on the agenda are several key resolutions, including:

  • Approval of the 2024 Corrective Action Plan prepared by CFO William Eagen in response to the township’s annual audit.
  • Adoption of the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, required by state law to address affordable housing obligations through 2035.
  • Authorization of the 2025 Road Paving Program, awarding a contract to Riverview Paving, Inc. for over $1.2 million in improvements.
  • Approval of a Trout Habitat Study for Lake Hopatcong, funded through a Highlands Council grant.
  • Authorization of new contracts for internet and cloud phone services, salary range ordinances for municipal employees, and multiple vehicle purchases.

The Council will also address routine business, including approval of minutes, payment of bills, and a consent agenda with resolutions covering tax refunds, grant applications, surplus property sales, and renewal of liquor licenses for local establishments.

Public comment will be permitted during the meeting, and residents will be encouraged to participate. No executive session is scheduled.

Future Council meetings are scheduled for July 16, August 6, and other dates through the end of the year.

For more information, visit www.jeffersontownship.net or contact the Township Clerk’s Office at (973) 208-6133.

Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Announces Upcoming DWI Checkpoint in Florham Park

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Florham Park Police Chief Joseph Orlando announce the implementation of a joint Driving While Intoxicated checkpoint in Florham Park for the weekend of June 27 through June 29. This action will be dedicated to the memory of father and daughter, Tim and Bridget O’Donnell.

The checkpoint will be conducted by law enforcement personnel from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Florham Park Police Department.

Tim’s wife and Bridget’s mother, Pam O’Donnell, started an awareness campaign to educate the public about the dangers of distracted and impaired drivers. It has helped inspire a renewed commitment by law enforcement to detect and respond to dangerous drivers.

DWI checkpoints are funded by grants received by the Prosecutor’s Office from the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety to conduct checkpoints with municipal police departments throughout Morris County.

The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office has coordinated sobriety checks throughout various municipalities in Morris County. It intends to continue to do so in the future with advanced public notice. Regrettably, impaired and drunk driving continues to pose a serious threat and harm to our citizens, and now, co-joined with all too many cases of distracted driving because of cell phones, these types of operations to deter such behavior remain useful and necessary to protect the public.

Dover Town Council to Hold Regular Meeting on June 24

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Town of Dover Mayor and Council

DOVER — The Town of Dover will hold its next Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Council on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, beginning at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be conducted via Microsoft Teams to allow for broader community participation.

Click here to download the agenda.

Residents may join the meeting virtually using the following link: Click here to join. The Meeting ID is 279 690 012 122, and the passcode is Eg7DD97h.

Community members who wish to speak during the public comment portion must submit a request no later than 4:00 p.m. on the meeting day. Requests can be made by calling the Clerk’s Office at (973) 366-2200 ext. 1114 or by emailing [email protected]. The request must include the speaker’s name, phone number, and meeting date.

Public comment will be limited to 90 minutes, and speakers are encouraged to be concise and respectful during their remarks.

The Town Council encourages residents to participate and share their thoughts on community issues.

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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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