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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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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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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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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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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:

Interfaith Food Pantry Network Assists Residents Amid Federal Shutdown and SNAP Delays

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS PLAINS — The Interfaith Food Pantry Network has announced emergency measures to support local residents affected by delays in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits resulting from the ongoing federal government shutdown.

The organization shared that it remains unclear how long benefits will be disrupted, with recipients possibly facing unpaid or delayed assistance throughout November. In response, the pantry is stepping in to help those in need of food on a temporary basis until their benefits resume.

Emergency food will be distributed Monday through Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Interfaith Food Pantry Network’s location, 2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains. Individuals are asked to bring their EBT card or Connect EBT app as proof of loss of benefits.

For those needing ongoing support, the pantry continues its standard enrollment process. Residents can call (973) 538-8049 ext. 210 to schedule an intake interview. Additional documentation is required for long-term assistance.

In a note to supporters, the organization expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity, stating that their continued donations allow the pantry to respond swiftly during times of crisis. Preparations are already underway to distribute more than 2,500 turkeys and additional food supplies in November to meet the rising need.

Community members wishing to contribute can support the pantry’s efforts through its annual appeal to ensure families do not go hungry during the holiday season and beyond.

Operation Holiday Gift Giving Marks 55 Years of Spreading Joy Across Morris County

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — As autumn settles over Morris County and the holiday season draws near, one long-standing local tradition is once again uniting the community in the spirit of generosity. Operation Holiday Gift Giving has launched its 55th annual campaign—continuing a legacy that has brightened the lives of thousands of residents in need for more than half a century.

Founded on compassion and community spirit, Operation Holiday Gift Giving is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that no one is forgotten during the holidays. Each year, the group works hand-in-hand with local service agencies to identify and assist those facing hardship—providing everything from warm clothing and personal essentials to toys and special gifts for children who might otherwise miss the joy of the season.

“Our mission has always been simple: to bring comfort, hope, and happiness to our neighbors,” the organization shared in its annual appeal letter. “Every donation, no matter how small, creates a ripple of kindness that reaches those who need it most—the elderly, the disabled, survivors of abuse, the homeless, and especially children.”

What sets Operation Holiday Gift Giving apart is its personalized approach. Volunteers carefully match each contribution to specific wish lists, ensuring that gifts go directly to individuals and families most in need. This thoughtful coordination transforms donations into moments of genuine joy and connection across the community.

As the organization celebrates its 55th year, supporters are once again encouraged to give generously to keep this meaningful tradition alive. “Your generosity has been the heart of this mission for 55 years,” the letter reads. “Together, we can continue to make the holidays brighter for those who might otherwise be overlooked.”

All donations to Operation Holiday Gift Giving are tax deductible and can be mailed to:
Operation Holiday Gift Giving, P.O. Box 1697, Morristown, NJ 07960. (This is the original Operation Holiday and is not associated with Operation Holiday.net).

With the continued support of the community, Operation Holiday Gift Giving remains a shining example of Morris County’s enduring compassion—proving that even the smallest act of kindness can bring light and warmth to those in need during the holiday season.

Contact Liz Harper, President, Operation Holiday Gift Giving
[email protected]

Florham Park Police Interrupt Burglary in Progress, One Suspect Arrested with Multi-Agency Support

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

FLORHAM PARK — On Sunday, October 26, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Florham Park Police Sergeant Jared Orgel interrupted an active burglary in progress at a commercial property on Hanover Road, following up on a report taken earlier that day by day-shift patrol officers. The initial report indicated that unknown suspects had broken into the property, caused damage, and removed a substantial quantity of material from within the building.

Sergeant Orgel, operating an unmarked vehicle, made the decision to monitor the site later that evening in case the suspects returned. His timing proved impeccable. Upon pulling onto the property, he observed two individuals actively burglarizing the business while operating a commercial van.

As Sergeant Orgel approached, the suspects immediately fled on foot in different directions. One suspect was observed running back into the building. What followed was a coordinated and swift response from numerous neighboring law enforcement agencies, which flooded the scene to establish a perimeter and assist in the search.

The Morris County Sheriff’s Office responded with K-9, Patrol, and Drone Operations Units. Their K-9 Units conducted an interior building search alongside Florham Park Officers, while their Criminal Investigative Section later processed the crime scene.

During the search, Officers from Madison Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office heard noises coming from the roof. East Hanover Police Department, which responded with multiple Officers and a Drone Operations Team, deployed a drone that located a suspect hiding on the rooftop. Officers were directed to the location and successfully took the individual into custody without incident or injury.

The second suspect fled on foot into a nearby wooded area and was not apprehended at the time. However, the commercial van used during the crime and a significant amount of the stolen property were recovered. The investigation remains ongoing by the Florham Park Detective Bureau, and no further information is being released at this time.

Florham Park Police expressed their sincere gratitude to the many agencies that responded without hesitation to help secure the large property and conduct a thorough and safe search. These agencies included:

  • Fairfield Police Department
  • Madison Police Department
  • East Hanover Police Department
  • Morris County Sheriff’s Office
  • Livingston Police Department
  • Parsippany Police Department
  • Harding Police Department
  • Morris Township Police Department
  • Chatham Borough Police Department
  • Hanover Township Police Department

Authorities say they look forward to sharing additional updates once the second suspect is apprehended.

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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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