EAST HANOVER — The East Hanover Knights of Columbus will host a high-stakes evening of fun and fundraising with their upcoming Poker Tournament on Friday, June 20, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The event will occur in the lower level of St. Rose of Lima Church, located at 312 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover.
Open to poker enthusiasts across the region, the tournament promises a competitive and exciting atmosphere. Based on a 75+ player turnout, a $5,000+ prize pool is expected. Notably, 10% of the field will be paid, giving plenty of participants a chance to win while supporting a worthy cause.
For a $100 buy-in, players will receive 5,000 chips, with opportunities for re-buys and add-ons throughout the night. The event will follow Texas Hold’em rules, featuringprofessional cards, regulation tables, and fully licensed dealers. A champion bracelet will be awarded to the evening’s top player.
In addition to thrilling gameplay, attendees will enjoy complimentary food and beverages, adding to the evening’s lively, community-centered spirit.
Players who register online by Wednesday, June 18, will receive an additional 500 chips, giving them an edge at the tables. Click here to reserve.
Proceeds from the tournament will support the charitable initiatives of the East Hanover Knights of Columbus, whose mission includes assisting local families in need, supporting parish programs, and promoting community service throughout the region.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual card fan, all are welcome to join in the fun for a night of cards, camaraderie, and community impact.
A group of dedicated volunteers and supporters gather outside the Roots & Wings residence in Parsippany, bringing donations and encouragement to empower youth transitioning out of foster care.
MORRIS COUNTY — For over 25 years, Roots & Wings has remained one of the few organizations in New Jersey exclusively focused on empowering youth aging out of the foster care system. What began as a grassroots, volunteer-led effort by founder Irene DeGrandpre—who once welcomed foster youth into her own home—has evolved into a full-scale nonprofit built on compassion, community, and the unwavering belief that every young adult deserves a strong start in life.
The mission of Roots & Wings is clear: to provide safe housing, emotional support, life skills, and educational opportunities to young people aging out of foster care. Many of these youth face overwhelming odds: higher risks of homelessness, food insecurity, unemployment, and lack of family support. Roots & Wings offers an essential safety net that helps these individuals move from instability to independence.
A cozy and welcoming bedroom space at the Roots & Wings home in Parsippany, where program members find comfort, stability, and the foundation to focus on personal growth and education.
The organization’s comprehensive program includes stable housing, case management, vocational and academic planning, life skills workshops, and community engagement. Roots & Wings covers 100% of its members’ rent and utilities during their participation, allowing them to focus on growth and future goals without the burden of basic survival.
In 2024 alone, the organization served 20 former foster youth. Among them:
Four members graduated and are now employed and living independently.
Five members are pursuing degrees in 2- and 4-year college programs—three on track to graduate in 2025.
Other members are training in high-demand fields, including certified nursing assistant, home health aide, medical assistant, radiography, and patient services.
Since 2017, the Roots & Wings home in Parsippany has been a vital part of this journey, housing up to three program members at a time. With its proximity to schools, employers, and transportation, Parsippany offers critical access to opportunity. Currently, three young women are making strides at the Parsippany location:
One will graduate this year with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology.
Another is working toward her Patient Care Technician certification.
The newest resident is pursuing her GED, building a foundation for future academic success.
One remarkable success story is that of C.S., a program member based in Parsippany who was recently honored at the Roots & Wings Rise & Fly Gala. In just over a year, C.S. has earned her SORA certification, enabling her to work as a security guard while continuing her studies. She is on track to graduate with a Criminal Justice and Psychology degree this December.
“They make me want to change,” said C.S. “I already wanted to, but because they know that I can do it and expect that from me, they made me see things that I didn’t see.”
Roots & Wings isn’t just a program—it’s a transformative community. In towns like Parsippany, where access meets opportunity, it is helping young adults rewrite their futures, one milestone at a time. Please visit their site here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Governor has reached his Term Limit! This makes the 2025 PRIMARY ELECTION even more critical!
If you are a resident of New Jersey and registered as ‘Unaffiliated,’ you will NOT have an opportunity to exercise your right to vote on who will be on the General Election Ballot for Governor in November.
**EXCEPT: If you are Unaffiliated, go to your regular polling location and you can declare a party (Republican or Democrat) at the polls on Primary Election Day and cast your vote.
Afterwards, if you choose, you can switch back to ‘Unaffiliated.’
You can also go to the Morris County Clerk’s Website by clicking here.
If you have family or friends who live in other New Jersey towns, you can share this information with them so they can do the same in their own counties.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
May 28: Mailing of Sample Ballots.
June 3-8: Early Voting; See the list of 8 locations at https://www.morriscountynj.gov/Government/Voting-and-Elections/Early-Voting-Information
Tuesday,June 10: Primary Election Day. Polls open 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
In-person Mail-in ballots must be returned to the Board of Elections or deposited in an Official Ballot Drop Box by 8:00 p.m.
Mail-in ballots sent by the United States Postal Service must be postmarked on or before Tuesday, June 10, and received by Monday, June 16.
Early voting is an opportunity for voters who have not requested a mail-in ballot to vote in person on a voting machine before election day.
When and where can I vote early?
There are eight locations throughout Morris County for Early Voting. Eligible Morris County residents can vote at any of the eight locations. View Early Voting locations.
Early voting for the 2025 Primary Election will take place:
Tuesday, June 3 through Thursday, June 5: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Friday, June 6 and Saturday, June 7: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 8: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS
1. Boonton Township Municipal Building; 155 Powerville Road, Boonton, Council Chambers Room
2. Morris County Central Park Complex (CAC); 2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains.
3. Denville Town Hall; 1 St. Mary’s Place, Denville, Community Room
4. Hanover Community Center; 15 N. Jefferson Road, Whippany.
5. Madison Hartly Dodge Memorial; 50 Kings Road, Madison, Courtroom
6. Morristown Municipal Building; 200 South Street, Morristown.
7. Mount Arlington Civic/Senior Center; 18 North Glen Avenue, Mount Arlington.
8. Mount Olive Municipal Bldg; 204 Flanders Drakestown Road, Budd Lake, Council Chambers
BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert M. McNally, and Boonton Township Chief of Police Thomas Cacciabeve confirmed that a jury has found Brian Stewart, 42, formerly of Clifton, guilty of multiple sexual offenses that occurred in March 2024.
Following a three-day trial, the jury returned guilty verdicts on May 23, 2025. The defendant was found guilty of three counts of second-degree Luring, two counts of third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, second-degree Attempted Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and four counts of second-degree Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault.
The Honorable Robert M. Hanna, J.S.C., presided over the trial and scheduled a sentencing hearing for July 25. The defendant will remain in custody pending his sentencing date.
At sentencing, the Attempted Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault convictions will be subject to the provisions of the No Early Release Act, which makes the defendant ineligible for parole until he has served 85 percent of the sentence imposed. Additionally, the defendant will be subject to Megan’s Law registration requirements and the Special Sentence of Parole Supervision for Life.
On March 22, 2024, the Boonton Township Police Department received a referral regarding child exploitation on the internet. Thereafter, members of the Boonton Township Police Department investigated the referral. The investigation revealed that the defendant engaged in sexual conversations on the internet with individuals he reasonably believed to be children and attempted to lure those children to a public meeting location to engage in sexual intercourse with them.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP—The Morris County Mosquito Commission has announced that it will conduct mosquito control spraying in Jefferson Township on Wednesday, May 28, from 4:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m., weather permitting.
Crews will treat a section of woods and surrounding properties along Weldon Road using an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) as part of ongoing efforts to control the mosquito population and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
The commission will be applying either Anvil 2+2 (active ingredient Sumithrin, EPA#1021-1687-8329) or Zenivex E4 (active ingredient Etofenprox, EPA#2724-807), both of which are approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Residents are advised to stay indoors during the application period, keep windows closed, and bring pets and outdoor items inside as a precaution.
For more information, visit the Morris County Mosquito Commission website or call (973) 285-6450.
MORRIS COUNTY — The dedicated boys of Trail Life USA Troop #777, based at Trinity Baptist Church in Montville, showed exceptional community spirit during a recent outreach effort to support the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry.
Under the leadership of Troopmaster Andrew Vigario, the Trailmen spent three hours stationed outside ShopRite of Parsippany collecting food and monetary donations. Their heartfelt efforts resulted in 45 bags of essential groceries and $221 in cash contributions—resources that will provide much-needed support to individuals and families facing food insecurity.
Montville Kiwanis President Larry Hines and member Ron Rauschart personally thanked the troop for its generosity and continued commitment to service. Their annual involvement is a shining example of youth leadership and civic engagement in the Parsippany-Montville community.
To learn more about how to donate or volunteer, visit the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry. Click here.
Thank you, Troop #777, for making a difference year after year!
BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Beginning Tuesday, May 27, 2025, New Jersey Natural Gas crews will begin installing new utility lines on River Road near Rockaway Valley Road. This project may cause intermittent traffic delays for drivers traveling eastbound and westbound on Rockaway Valley Road.
Following the initial phase, the work will continue along River Road and into the Oak Hills neighborhood. The project is expected to last several weeks and may lead to temporary detours and traffic slowdowns within the neighborhood.
Residents living on River Road, Sunrise Road, Forrest Road, Berton Road, Overlook Road, and Rosewood Lane are encouraged to allow extra time when traveling.
The Boonton Township Police Department will have officers on-site daily to assist with traffic-related matters and ensure public safety throughout the project’s duration.
The picturesque gazebo at the Jefferson Township Municipal Complex provides a charming backdrop for the Summer Gazebo Concert, offering the perfect setting for an evening of live music and community spirit.
JEFFERSON—The Jefferson Arts Committee invites the community to an evening of live music under the stars at its Free Summer Gazebo Concert, which will take place on Friday, June 27, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Jefferson Township Municipal Complex, located at 1033 Weldon Road in Milton/Oak Ridge.
This special summer event will feature performances by the Jefferson Township Community Concert and Jazz Bands, showcasing a variety of musical favorites including Broadway hits, patriotic salutes, standard marches, and classic jazz tunes.
Guests are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket andnon-alcoholic beverages, picnic dinners, and snacks to enjoy during the performance. Free-will donations are appreciated to support the ongoing efforts of the Jefferson Arts Committee.
Contact (201) 230-8879 or (973) 697-3828 for more information.
In inclement weather, the concert will be moved indoors to the Jefferson Township High School Auditorium at 1010 Weldon Road.
Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a relaxing evening of music and community celebration in Jefferson Township.
Surveillance images show the three suspects wanted in connection with a vandalism incident outside a Morristown business.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morristown Bureau of Police is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying three individuals connected to a criminal mischief incident between the late evening hours of Saturday, May 17, and the early morning of Sunday, May 18.
According to police, the suspects damaged a local family-owned business by removing a large planter pot and hurling it onto an outdoor table. The group fled the scene in a dark-colored sedan.
Authorities have released the following descriptions of the individuals of interest:
Surveillance images show the three suspects wanted in connection with a vandalism incident outside a Morristown business.
Individual #1: White male, approximately 5’8″ tall, bald with short facial hair. He has a tattoo on his left forearm and was last seen wearing blue jeans, a black t-shirt, and a Yankees baseball cap.
Individual #2: White male with glasses and short facial hair. He had tattoos on both arms and wore grey jeans, a black t-shirt, and a grey “NY” baseball cap.
Individual #3: White male with short dark hair and short facial hair. He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt and dark jeans.
Anyone with information can contact the Morris County Sheriff’s Crime Stoppers at copcall.org, by calling 973-COP-CALL, or through the free “P3 Tips” app. All tips are confidential, and individuals may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.
CCM’s Class of 2025 processing at the college’s 54th Commencement, William G. Mennen Sports Arena in Morristown
MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) held its 56th Commencement at the William G. Mennen Sports Arena in Morristown to commemorate the Class of 2025 and the awarding of associate degrees and certificates of achievement to nearly 1,000 graduates.
CCM President Dr. Anthony J. Iacono welcomed a large audience on a rainy but celebratory Thursday morning. First, he reflected on the college’s history and its deep partnerships, as CCM has been aptly recognized as the community’s college.
“Graduates, many of you know CCM in its present state,” said Iacono, “but for decades it has been a school that is cared for by its community, a place where dreams are fulfilled by talented students just like you, and a home that embraces you and everyone who has come before you.”
Following tradition, Iacono spotlighted an array of graduates and their stories that illustrate resilience, leadership, and excellence.
Juan Marin de la Rosa, of Parsippany, previously earned his first associate degree in business at CCM and graduated today with his second degree in nursing.
“Smart, talented, and caring Juan is graduating today as an RN and has already been hired by Morristown Medical Center to work in the Gagnon Cardiac Unit,” said Iacono, “while he begins working on his bachelor’s degree in nursing at Rowan University.”
Denise DeMaio, of Wharton, earned an associate’s degree in music to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a music therapist. She worked evenings at UPS to help make it possible to enroll at CCM.
Brian Scott, of Livingston, earned an associate’s degree in liberal arts and was active in the college’s film club and broadcasting studio. He worked at Big State Sports with owner George Muha, ‘96, and will be transferring to Montclair State to further his studies.
Lizeth Isaza, of Wharton, began at CCM while still in high school as a dual enrollment student, earning high school and college credits simultaneously. She will continue her education at Ramapo College’s 2+1 finance program towards a bachelor’s and master’s degree.
Tyler Hamlett, of Budd Lake, earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice while being a dedicated campus leader in numerous clubs, a performing arts student, and serving as a volunteer firefighter in his Mt. Olive community.
Diana Luba, a musical theatre major from Rockaway, will continue her education at Drew University. Diana wore her grandfather’s medallion, representing his immigration to the U.S. from Poland, and had family support her in person today and in London.
James Turchi, of Bridgewater, a highly decorated student athlete and future teacher, was praised by his supervising teacher Debbie Iacono at Chester Stephen’s Elementary School in Mt. Olive for being a “natural” and the best student intern she had worked with in decades.
Landon Tanyeri, of Sparta, president of CCM’s Student Government Association, was commended for his natural leadership abilities, incredible work ethic, exceptional intellectual abilities, and excellent people skills.
“Graduating today with an associate’s degree in liberal arts and heading to Rutgers to study public policy, Landon is well ahead of his peers around the state and nation,” said Iacono. Most recently, Landon traveled with Iacono and colleagues to Washington, D.C. to advocate for community colleges, increased funding, and more prudent policies.
Tanyeri reminisced with his fellow graduates that when he enrolled at CCM two years ago, as an out-of-county student, he never thought he would be standing at the podium today. “I encourage you to take advantage of the open doors… doors custom-tailored to only fit you, which will be left shut if the key walks by.”
Noelia DeStefano was presented with the 2025 Sherman and Dorothy Masten Memorial Scholarship. Candidates who graduated with honors based on their high-achieving grade point average and Honors program participants were also recognized.
Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners shared his story of immigrating to the U.S. from Turkey. He reflected on his own experiences, from initially pumping gas to becoming a successful businessman, raising his family in Chatham Township, and serving as an elected official.
CCM President Anthony J. Iacono awards a diploma to one of the graduates from the Class of 2025 at the college’s 56th Commencement
Selen explained how county commissioners help shape vital services in the region, including supporting CCM’s expansion with the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center, the Morris County Career Training Center with a ribbon-cutting set for Friday, May 30, the Center for Entrepreneurship and Culinary Science (Spring 2026) and the Center for Healthcare Professions with in-demand programs (Fall 2026).
“Your college is the greatest community college anywhere…year after year, CCM is consistently ranked among the top community colleges in the country,” said Selen. “All these projects will allow people in Morris County to develop the skills demanded by New Jersey’s leading business and government sectors, the skills you now hold…. Opportunities don’t always knock. Sometimes, you have to build the door yourself.”
Iacono reinforced that CCM has always found a way to support local non-profits, law enforcement, the business community, and more. This includes opening a new Veterans Resource Center on campus in 2024 for students, community Veterans, and their families.
“We know and respect that our Veterans and active-duty military personnel are an invaluable community within our community,” said Iacono, “they represent the reason why we live in the greatest nation on the planet.”
U.S. Army Major General John T. Reim, a seasoned acquisition professional with over three decades of leadership in special operations, defense procurement, and security cooperation, delivered the keynote. Born and raised in Jersey, Reim attended the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, which launched a career that has taken him worldwide from Germany and Fort Bragg to Afghanistan and the Pentagon. Today, he leads the Army’s munition enterprise as the Joint Program Executive Officer Armaments & Ammunition and the Commanding General of Picatinny Arsenal.
Reim shared four guiding lessons—trust your instincts, be humble, set a positive environment, and make a difference—principles that have taken him farther than he ever imagined. He emphasized that the world is full of opportunity and now, more than ever, needs people like today’s graduates.
“This is an incredibly eclectic and diverse graduating class,” said Reim. “You represent a broad spectrum of ages, from those just starting their adult journeys in their twenties to those embracing new opportunities in their fifties and sixties…. You are County College of Morris proud. You are Jersey tough. And you are ready to build the future.”
CCM’s Board of Trustees Chair and U.S. Army Veteran Paul Licitra praised the graduates’ resilience, emphasizing that success comes from small, consistent efforts and the power of grit.
“This milestone, your college graduation, wasn’t built in grand leaps,” said Licitra. “It was built through daily effort… now go forward not just as graduates, but as County College of Morris alumni. You will always be part of the CCM family.”
CCM Professor Alexis Thurman, chair of the Mathematics Department, served as Grand Marshall and carried the ceremonial mace. As the CCM Chamber Choir sang, Thurman led the graduates to the joyful embraces from faculty, family, friends, and Titus, CCM’s lively mascot.
