County College of Morris Schedules Celebrations for Veterans
MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM), in collaboration with local, state and federal organizations, has announced two events on campus this month to celebrate veterans.
The first, a Veterans Resource Event, is scheduled for Wednesday, November 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and includes 20 organizations providing services and programs available for veterans.
This informal, educational opportunity provides a venue for discussion with Atlantic Health, Community Hope, the Department of Aging, the Mental Health Association, Morris County Veterans Services Office, New Jersey Department of Labor & Work Force Development, New Jersey Department of Military Affairs, New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Welcome Vets of New Jersey and many more.
A Program in Tribute to our Veterans will be held on Thursday, November 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., to honor their veterans’ service.
This presentation features a historical perspective given by Geroge A. Roth, FC, SO-AS/CS/IS, FSO-AS/CS/DV/IS/NS/PB/PE Division 15, Flotilla 10, 5NR U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and keynote speaker Lt. Col. Alexander D. Burgos, Commander, U.S. Army Garrison Picatinny Arsenal, plus a video montage and musical tributes to all military branches by the CCM Chamber Choir
The Veterans Resource Event on November 8 will be held in the Student Community Center, Davidson Rooms, and the Program in Tribute to our Veterans on November 9 will be held in Dragonetti Auditorium, on CCM’s campus at 214 Center Grove Road, in Randolph Township. Parking is in Lot #6.
Pre-registration is not required. For more information, call (973) 328-5054 or email cmcardle@ccm.edu.
CCM currently offers free training for veterans and their families in advanced manufacturing. To learn more about the college’s non-credit and for-credit, certificate and associate degree programs, along with funding opportunities for veterans and their families click here.
Acrylic painting winner Ismael Villavvubla accepts his prize from Rochelle Ostenfeld and Lanet Rivera.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming and Norwescap held the 2023 Morris County Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Art Show and Awards Ceremony earlier this week at the Marion E. Sally Building on Clyde Potts Drive in Morristown, showcasing artwork from many local talents.
The 16th annual event, and the first one in person since the pandemic, received 21 submissions representing a vast array of creativity from within five different art categories: Acrylic Painting, Photography, Mixed Media, Watercolor, and Drawing.
In each category, winners selected for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards were presented satin ribbons and generous gift bundles of art supplies. Everyone who participated received public acknowledgment with a certificate of recognition for their artwork.
“During October, the County Commissioners observed and celebrated Arts & Humanities Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month by publicly presenting framed proclamations to several local organizations. This art show was another way to continue these community celebrations as we recognize the contributions and talents of our senior and special needs neighbors,” said Morris County Commissioner Deb Smith.
The judges for the event were Dr. Edward Ramirez, Chief Program Officer of Norwescap, Rochelle Ostenfeld, Norwescap’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Manager, and Xavier Powell, owner of operations and curation for Gallery X in West Palm Beach, Florida.
During the Awards Ceremony, Mark Valli, CEO of Norwescap, took the stage to express his gratitude and appreciation, emphasizing the importance of displaying the “untapped talent of Morris County.” He highlighted Norwescap’s extensive services, which include early childhood programs, employment services, nutrition and food security initiatives, housing and community development, and volunteer and civic engagement programs, such as the Norwescap RSVP program.
“We’re all born artists. We’re all born to express ourselves. We all have it in us, and art is a way to draw that out… There is a ton of talent in our senior population and those with disabilities. Art is a way to bring us together,” said Valli.
“We at Norwescap hope that with today’s program, we might be reaching individuals that we are serving in our other programs in a way that is expressive, a way that is beautiful and that builds strong community,” he added. “That is why art is important. That is why Norwescap is doing this work with the county, and we are grateful to be a part of this community.”
The winners in each category included:
In Acrylic Painting, Ismael Villavvubla won 1st place for his piece entitled “Campout.” Holly Hunter came in 2nd place for “Reflections Past” and Elizabeth Bain earned 3rd place for “Isolation.”
In Photography, Tom Cassidy was the 1st place winner for “Sole Pole with Clouds,” Patricia Anderson came in 2nd place for “Ocean Breeze” and Wilma S. Pickell in 3rd place for “Low Tide Cape Cod.”
In the Mixed Media category, 1st place went to Barbra Elliot for “Butterflies,” 2nd place to Ian Crowe for “Ladybugs in Flowers Spring,” and 3rd place to J.R. Schomp for “Sea Life.”
In Watercolor, MaryAnn Tunstead won 1st place with her artwork titled “A River Runs Through It.”
In the Drawing category, Dee DeJulio claimed 1st place for her piece, “Best Buddies.”
After the awards ceremony, everyone gathered for a luncheon provided by The Fruited Plain, a local caterer in Parsippany-Troy Hills.
The event was a true celebration of art, community, and the incredible talent of Morris County’s seniors and individuals with disabilities. Each year, the County Commissioners approve roughly $5,000 through a grant in aid to fund the art program.
Morris County congratulates all the participants and thanks the dedicated team from Norwescap who worked behind the scenes tirelessly to make this event a reality.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) announced the following facilities closures for next week’s state holidays:
Tuesday, November 7: All NJMVC facilities, including agencies, road test sites, and inspection stations, will be closed.
Friday, November 10: All NJMVC facilities, including agencies, road test sites, and inspection stations, will be closed.
Saturday, November 11: Inspection stations only will be closed. Regular Saturday operations will be in effect at all other NJMVC facilities.
For the remainder of the week, regular operations will be in effect at all NJMVC facilities.
Meanwhile, NJMVC.gov remains open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and should always be the first stop for New Jerseyans seeking motor vehicle services.
On the Commission’s website, customers can access more than 25 online services, book appointments for in-person services, find answers to common customer questions, and more.
While most customers can complete their motor vehicle business online in New Jersey, nearly all in-person services at NJMVC agencies require an appointment that must be scheduled at NJMVC.gov.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County invites the public to attend two Veterans Day ceremonies next week to honor and celebrate 28 local veterans who will receive Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals.
“>The first ceremony will take place on Wednesday, November 8, at the Board of County Commissioners Public Meeting at 7:00 p.m. on the fifth floor of the Administration and Records Building located at 10 Court Street, Morristown. Seventeen veterans from around the county will be honored and presented with Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals. Please arrive as early as 6:30 p.m. to join or tune in to our live stream through a link that will be shared on the Morris County Government Facebook page and on the county’s website. (Click here)
On Thursday, November 9, another 11 veterans from around the county will be honored and presented with Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals at 1:00 p.m. at the Morris County Office of Veterans Services located at 540 West Hanover Ave. in Morris Township. The event will also include a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the opening of a new veterans services wing following a renovation and office expansion that took place over the summer.
Parking is available across West Hanover Avenue at the Morris County 9/11 Memorial. Only veterans involved in the medal service will be able to park at the Veteran Services Office at 540 West Hanover Avenue.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA) is accepting applications for its accounting scholarships. Now in its 64th year, the scholarships are awarded to college-bound New Jersey high school seniors, as well as sophomore, junior, and senior accounting students at New Jersey colleges or universities. The scholarships also include minority high school awards. The deadline for high school scholarships is December 8, 2023, and the deadline for college scholarships is January 8, 2024.
Scholarships for High School Seniors
College-bound New Jersey high school seniors who intend to major in accounting or obtain a concentration in accounting at a four- or two-year institution are welcome to apply for a $1,500 scholarship. Students with a cumulative 3.2 grade point average or a minimum 1260 SAT OR 26 ACT score (if taken) are eligible.
In its third year, the Deloitte Scholars High School Minority Scholarship, funded by the Deloitte Foundation, is open to college-bound high school seniors intending to major in accounting or obtain a concentration in accounting at a four- or two-year institution. To be eligible, applicants must meet the same academic GPA/test requirements as the other high school applicants but must also identify as an ethnic minority. The awards are $1,500 each.
Scholarships for College Students
The NJCPA is accepting applications for $6,500 one-year scholarships from juniors majoring in accounting who are entering their senior year and seniors who are enrolling in an accounting-related graduate program. Applicants must be a New Jersey resident, have a GPA of 3.2, and have at least 12 accounting credits by the end of the spring 2024 semester.
New Jersey college sophomores or second-year students at New Jersey community colleges who are continuing their education at a four-year college in the fall are encouraged to apply for a $2,000 one-year award. Applicants must have a 3.2 GPA, be a New Jersey resident and have at least six accounting credits by the end of the spring 2024 semester.
The NJCPA Scholarship Fund, which is supported by NJCPA member donations, has given out more than $7 million in awards to more than 2,000 New Jersey students since its inception in 1960.
“The scholarships are a great way to introduce these students to the NJCPA and let them know there is a vast resource of professionals available who want nothing more than to support them in their journey to become accounting professionals and CPAs. As a past scholarship recipient myself, I know firsthand the value of connecting very early in this career path,” said Henrietta Fuchs, CPA, president of the NJCPA Scholarship Fund and partner at CohnReznick LLP.
“It’s an honor to reward the academic achievements of these outstanding students who are on their way to becoming the next accounting professionals and CPAs in this great career. We are pleased to be able to assist them along that journey thanks to the generosity of our members,” added Aiysha (AJ) Johnson, MA, IOM, CEO and executive director of the NJCPA.
Scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, standardized test scores, essays, and personal interviews. For a complete list of eligibility requirements and to apply for the awards click here. Winners will be notified in March 2024.
On September 16 tragedy struck the community of Dover as a raging fire broke out on West Blackwell Street. The fierce flames and subsequent smoke damage have left the building uninhabitable, resulting in a severe impact on the residents.
DOVER — During the council meeting on Tuesday, October 24, Town of Dover Mayor Carolyn Blackman refrained from discussing the whereabouts of the clothing donations and gift cards meant for fire victims. Instead, she pointed to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, despite the club not receiving any donations at the Town Hall.
During the meeting, several residents who had suffered losses in the tragic West Blackwell fire sought information regarding the whereabouts of the donations and gift cards. The calamity on Saturday, September 16, had reduced two businesses and several apartments to ashes.
In the statement echoed by residents during the meeting that has ruffled feathers in the community, Mayor Blackman reportedly advised residents to “Go back to work so you can pay for your deposits, and also to stop having more children.”
Several employees, who wished to remain anonymous due to concerns about potential repercussions, validated the accuracy of the Mayor’s statement. Their hesitance to come forward publicly underscores the gravity of the remark and its implications.
The severity of the five-alarm fire led to the displacement of numerous individuals. Firefighters made an initial effort to tackle the flames from within the three-story building located near Dewey and Whitewell Street. But the precarious state of the roof, especially above the Jai-Alai restaurant, necessitated their withdrawal and a reconsideration of their strategy.
Gabriella Lanza Speaking at Dover Council Meeting
Gabriella Lanza said “I’m one of the people that were in the office where Mayor Blackman stated to go back to work so we could pay for our deposit and also to stop having children, more children. I think that’s a lack of respect and I think that’s inhumane.”
Lanza stated that she was present when Blackman told a resident to “Go back to work so we can pay for our deposits, and also to stop having more children.”
Many of the residents wanted to know where the donations of clothing and gift cards went that were dropped off at Town Hall.
Sabas Mazarlegos takes the microphone to express his disappointment with Blackman
“…Residents in town were helping us with donations, and gift cards, but we have not received anything. We were a family of seven. My daughter had to leave the State of Maryland. We didn’t have the resources to survive at all. She was one of the people who came to the office where the mayor told them just to go back to work because they were not going to give us money to help us get an apartment. Thank you for listening to us and hopefully all the resources that it was supposed to be for us will eventually go to us,” said Oscar Garnica.
Oscar GarnicaMaura Estrella voiced her disappointment on the “disappearing donations that were dropped off at Town Hall to be given to the fire victims”Zaira Ventura
Zaira Ventura stated she went to Town Hall and hasn’t received any of the donations.
Mayor Blackman responded to one fire victim “This is not the way a meeting is to be run. Everyone came here with a political agenda. We have the Kiwanis Club that can answer questions about all of these.” The Mayor responded to the speaker’s inquiries regarding the whereabouts of the donated clothing and gift cards.
“And then the Kiwanis Club came here to this meeting but didn’t speak. But they were involved with all these shenanigans. So to clear it all up, I said to them, please come to Town Hall and take whatever we have,” said Mayor Blackman.
Frank Cahill from Kiwanis Club said “I don’t know what meeting Blackman was talking about. I don’t know what meeting she was referring to. No one from the Kiwanis Club was at the previous meeting on Tuesday, October 10. My contact information is clearly displayed on the DoverKiwanis.org website, yet I have not received any phone calls. In addition, the Kiwanis Club never received any donations from the Mayor’s Office to distribute, so I am unsure why she would tell the residents that the Kiwanis Club can answer questions about the donated clothing and gift cards.”
The Greater Dover Kiwanis Club successfully conducted a clothing drive, amassing over 300 pounds of garments tailored to a specific list of children’s ages and sizes. The collected items were then distributed to the families by the club’s president, Sergio Rodriguez.
Furthermore, in a collaborative effort with the IHOP of Kenvil, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover contributed 45 turkey dinners. These meals were delivered to the victims at the Faith-Based Network, located at 20 Thompson Avenue.
The Dover Rotary Club started a GoFundMe page with the hopes of raising $30,000 to be distributed to the fire victims. At the time of this article, only $1,810 was raised. Morris Focusdid a story on fundraising and distributed the story through our media outlets. The page is still open, to make a donation, click here. The Rotary Club stated: “This GoFundMe page offers hope to the victims and will help offset the funds needed for them to find another residence. These families left their homes with minimal clothing; no food; no supplies; and no furniture. Many of the families have been assisted by residents in the short term, but they will need to find other living arrangements. Please help them to find a new place to live.”
The Rotary Club will be distributing the funds at a meeting with the victims on November 13 at 5:00 p.m. at the Faith-Based Network, 20 Thompson Avenue.
The faith-based network (20 Thompson Avenue) took an inventory of everything given to the fire victims. They can provide it if needed. The town never provided the facility with any donations.
MORRIS COUNTY —This week, a Denville residence received more than just a delivery when an Amazon courier reportedly entered the home without permission, according to Denville Police.
Leebert Michel, 28, Bronx, NY resident, has been charged with burglary in connection with the incident that took place on Monday, October 30.
The homeowners reported to the authorities that “an Amazon delivery personnel illegitimately made their way into their dwelling subsequent to dropping off a package.” Video evidence shows Michel entering the Arden Road property following the delivery on the same day.
Following the charge, Michel was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in court.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law
BOONTON — Winter is just around the corner, and we all know those chilly days and freezing nights will soon be upon us! ❄️
Join in making a difference this winter season. If you have new or gently used winter coats, hats, gloves, or scarves that you’re no longer using, consider donating them to a noble cause.
The Boonton Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary is hosting a coat drive on Saturday, November 4 at Town Hall (located at the South Boonton Firehouse). Drop by between 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. with your generous donations.
All the collected items will directly benefit the coat distribution event organized by the First Presbyterian Church of Boonton. This heartwarming event will be held on Saturday, November 18, from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 p.m. at 513 Birch Street. Along with distributing winter gear, a warm lunch will also be served to the attendees.
Let’s spread the warmth this season! Do consider donating, and if you know anyone in need of winter essentials, please share this information with them.
A huge thanks in advance to our caring Boonton community! Let’s keep everyone warm and snug this winter! ️❤️
In a significant and symbolic gesture, Frank Cahill, a dedicated member of the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town, was honored with a "pinning" ceremony. The act was carried out by none other than Kiwanis Lt. Gov. Mary Ann Simonenko, marking a moment of recognition and respect for Frank's commitment to the organization and the communities it serves.
The "pinning" ceremony holds deep significance within the Kiwanis community. It symbolizes the acknowledgment of a member's dedication, service, and leadership. The pin itself, often worn with pride, serves as a reminder of the responsibilities and duties that come with being a part of such a revered organization.
BOONTON — On Tuesday, October 24, the Gateway Community Resource Center played host to a significant event for the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town – the installation ceremony of its new officers.
Lt. Gov. Mary Ann Simonenko of Division 10 graced the event and undertook the important responsibility of administering the oath of office. Her presence added gravity to the occasion, emphasizing the commitment of the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town to its core values and objectives.
In a moment of recognition and significance, Aysha Avalos stepped forward, ready to embrace her new responsibilities as Secretary of the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town. With precision and respect, Lt. Gov. Simonenko placed the pin on Aysha, marking her formal induction into the pivotal role of Secretary.
Frank Cahill, taking on dual responsibilities, was installed as both the President and Treasurer of the club. His commitment to the club’s cause was evident, and there was a general sense of optimism about the direction he would steer the club in. Aysha Avalos was entrusted with the pivotal role of Secretary, a position vital for the smooth functioning and administration of the club.
As each officer took their oath, they pledged to uphold the club’s principles, diligently serve its members, and contribute positively to the Tri-Town community.
The event concluded on a high note with members and guests mingling over delicious pizza compliments of Ozzie’s Pizza & Grill, sharing stories, and expressing their enthusiasm for the upcoming year under the new leadership.
An emotional highlight of the evening was the special segment dedicated to the outgoing officers. It was a moment of reflection and appreciation, symbolizing the passing of the baton from the old to the new.
Incoming Club President, Frank Cahill, took center stage to extend his gratitude to the outgoing President, Mickey Chopra.
With genuine warmth, Cahill presented a plaque to Chopra. Inscribed on it were words that encapsulated the feelings of every member present:
“Gratitude and Cheers for Mickey Chopra: Celebrating Two Years of Dedicated Leadership and Unwavering Commitment to the Children of Boonton, Mountain Lakes, and Boonton Township as President of Tri-Town Kiwanis. Your service from October 1, 2021, to September 30, 2023, has left an indelible mark. #KIDSNEEDKIWANIS.”
Mickey Chopra’s tenure as President was marked by numerous achievements and milestones, and his commitment to the children of the Tri-Town area was evident throughout. As Cahill takes on the mantle of leadership, Chopra’s legacy sets a high benchmark, inspiring all members to keep striving for excellence and making a difference in the community.
Yash Samat emphasized, “Key Club isn’t just an extracurricular activity for me; it’s a beacon of hope, a community of like-minded individuals striving for positive change and personal growth.”
Yash Samat, holding the position of Vice President for the Mountain Lakes Key Club, graced the evening as the keynote speaker. His presence added depth to the event, emphasizing the profound connection between the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town and the student-led Mountain Lakes Key Club.
He began by sharing his personal journey with Key Club, describing how it had shaped him both personally and professionally. Speaking with genuine passion, Yash delved into the transformative experiences he had undergone, the friendships forged, and the leadership skills honed, all thanks to his involvement with the club.
In his inaugural address, Frank Cahill shared his vision for the club’s future. He emphasized teamwork, the importance of serving the communities, and the positive impact the club can have in the Tri-Town area.
With Frank Cahill at the helm and Aysha Avalos managing the club’s administrative duties, the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town is poised for a year filled with accomplishments, community service, and robust member engagement.
Kiwanis International is a global organization dedicated to improving the lives of children.
Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town proudly sponsors the Mountain Lakes High School Key Club. Tri-Town Kiwanis serves the communities of the Town of Boonton, Mountain Lakes, and Boonton Township.
The Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town has always been deeply rooted in its commitment to serve and uplift its communities. A significant testament to this dedication is its proud sponsorship of the Mountain Lakes High School Key Club. This partnership showcases the club’s unwavering support for fostering youth leadership and engagement.
The Key Club, a student-led community service organization, enables high school students to grow as responsible citizens, cultivate leadership skills, and contribute positively to their community and the world. With the backing of the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town, the Mountain Lakes High School Key Club has been able to drive various community initiatives, volunteer projects, and leadership development programs.
Tri-Town Kiwanis’s influence and support stretch far and wide, encompassing the communities of the Town of Boonton, Mountain Lakes, and Boonton Township. By empowering the youth through the Key Club, the Kiwanis Club is not only investing in the present but also ensuring a brighter and more proactive future for these communities.
This symbiotic relationship between the Tri-Town Kiwanis and the Key Club is a shining example of how community organizations can come together, pool their resources, and drive change on a larger scale. It’s an affirmation of the belief that when the experienced guide the enthusiastic, great things are bound to happen.
