JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Please be advised that the Jefferson Township Municipal Building will close early at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025.
Additionally, all Municipal Offices will be closed on Monday, May 26, during Memorial Day.
Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, May 27. Residents are encouraged to plan accordingly.
For more information, visit www.jeffersontwp.net or contact the Municipal Clerk’s Office.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Arts Committee has unveiled its lineup for the Summer Gazebo Concerts 2025, a much-loved tradition offering free, family-friendly live music every Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Jefferson Township Gazebo, located at 1033 Weldon Road in Oak Ridge at the Municipal Building Complex.
Concertgoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening of entertainment under the stars. In the event of rain, performances will move indoors to the Jefferson Township High School auditorium.
The 2025 schedule includes a diverse mix of genres, from big band jazz to rock, country, and Motown:
All concerts are free, and refreshments and snacks are available for purchase. Porta-johns will be on-site, and guests are asked to carry in and carry out their trash. Donations are gratefully accepted to support future events.
For more information, call (201) 230-8879 or visit facebook.com/JeffersonArtsCommittee.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — On Thursday, May 15, 2025, Jefferson Township Police arrested a charter bus driver who appeared to be under the influence after returning students and chaperones from a field trip.
Officers responded at approximately 6:34 p.m. to White Rock Elementary School, located in the Oak Ridge section of Jefferson, following a report concerning the condition of the bus driver. The chartered bus had just returned to the school when concerns were raised.
Upon arrival, Jefferson Township Police officers made contact with the driver, identified as Jean Audain, 57, of Spring Valley, New York. Following an investigation, Audain was placed under arrest and tested further for impairment. He was released on a summons and issued a future court date.
The investigation remains active, and police noted that additional charges are possible pending its outcome.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about crimes or suspicious activity to contact Morris County Crime Stoppers at (973) COP-CALL. All tips can be submitted anonymously and may be eligible for a reward.
Editors 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 reasonable doubt.
JEFFERSON — The Morris County Sheriff’s Office HOPE One mobile outreach vehicle made a meaningful stop at the Jefferson Diner on Monday, May 19, offering critical services and resources to the local community.
HOPE One, parked at 5 Bowling Green Parkway from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., provided free Narcan training and distributed life-saving Narcan kits to residents. The outreach initiative aims to combat substance use disorders by connecting individuals with detox, rehabilitation, and mental health services in a stigma-free environment.
Visitors to the HOPE One unit also received information and support related to recovery services, mental health access, and overdose prevention.
The program is a collaborative effort between the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Morris County Department of Human Services, in partnership with CARES (Center for Addiction Recovery Education and Success), the Mental Health Association of Morris County, Family Promise of Morris County, Morris County Chiefs of Police, and Jefferson Township Municipal Alliance Committee (JTMAC).
The event underscored the county’s ongoing commitment to promoting awareness, fostering recovery, and reducing the stigma associated with addiction and mental health challenges.
For more information about HOPE One and upcoming events, residents can call (973) 590-0300 or email [email protected].
BOONTON — Boonton PBA Local #212 is set to host a lively and competitive Cornhole Tournament on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Boonton Avenue Firehouse, located at 311 Boonton Avenue, Boonton.
Check-in begins at 11:30 a.m. and bags will fly at 12:00 p.m. sharp. The tournament will take place rain or shine.
Registration is $150 per team, with a spectator fee of $40, which includes food and beverages. Children 12 and under are free to attend. Attendees can enjoy food, beer, seltzers, soda, water, and door prizes. Trophies and awards will be given to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams.
This double-elimination event is limited to 32 teams. Payments must be received by June 7.. Cash, check, or Venmo are accepted.
For those looking to enjoy a fun-filled day of community spirit, great food, and friendly competition, this event is not to be missed!
MORRIS COUNTY — At this week’s public meeting, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners declared May 2025 Mental Health Awareness Month, recognizing the essential work of advocates, service providers, and county professionals who support individuals living with mental health challenges.
“Since 1949, May has helped people talk more openly about mental health, offer support, and improve access to care. Mental health affects all of us — our children, families, neighbors, and communities — and yet too many still suffer in silence. This month, we thank the people and organizations who provide care, support, and hope,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, who presented the proclamation.
Amy Archer, director of the Division of Community and Behavioral Health Services and the county’s Mental Health Administrator, accepted the framed proclamation along with members of the county’s Mental Health Addictions Services Advisory Board (MHASAB) and the county’s Professional Advisory Committee (PAC), whose invited members represent local provider agencies serving residents in need.
“Over the past few years there have been many initiatives at the state and local level to support the needs of our residents including the rollout of 988, a nationwide suicide & crisis lifeline; mobile crisis outreach response teams that respond to individuals in the community; the ARRIVE together program, a collaboration coordinated through the Morris County Prosecutors Office with local law enforcement and mental health specialists; and mental health programs within our court system such as the Mental Health Diversion Program,” said Archer.
“While this proclamation builds residents’ awareness of these issues, it also helps to foster a larger call to action to identify and support those in need,” said Victor DeVito, Chair of the MHASAB. “We deeply appreciate the commissioner’s continued funding support for these vital county programs. The dedication to prioritizing mental health services has made, and continues to make, a significant difference in the lives of countless citizens.”
The MHASAB is charged with reviewing, monitoring, and improving county mental health and addiction services. The board also recommends the allocation of county funds to ensure that a full continuum of care is available, accessible, and affordable for residents in need. The PAC, composed of leaders from local provider organizations, offers professional insights and guidance on program operations and emerging community needs.
The MHASAB meets on the second Thursday of the month at 5:15 p.m. at the Division of Community & Behavioral Health Services (Morris County Non-Profit Mall), 1 Medical Drive in Morris Plains. Meetings are open to the public and provide a forum for addressing behavioral health needs in the community.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP—The Jefferson Township Health Department is offering women a valuable opportunity to receive essential health screenings as part of its ongoing public health initiatives. A Female Cancer Screening event will be held on Thursday, September 18, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Township Public Health Center, 57 Minnisink Road, Lake Hopatcong.
The screening will include a comprehensive range of services such as breast and pelvic exams, Thin-prep Pap test, blood pressure check, and mammography referrals for eligible patients. Participants will also receive educational materials and counseling services to help them better understand and manage their health.
Women must be at least 18 years old to participate. Appointments are necessary and can be scheduled by calling (973) 663-0700. A nominal fee of $40.00 will be charged for the screening.
This event reflects Jefferson Township’s commitment to preventive health care and ensuring community members access essential medical services.
BOONTON — Boonton’s commitment to community pride and sustainability continues with the next Adopt A Block clean-up scheduled for Sunday, May 25 at 10:00 a.m. Volunteers will gather in front of Town Hall to clean the surrounding area before spreading out.
The Adopt A Block program encourages residents to take ownership of local blocks or public spaces, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and community engagement. Thanks to dedicated residents and volunteers, the initiative has gained steady momentum.
A special shout-out goes to Lauren Mills, who has played a key role in organizing and sustaining this valuable effort.
“We’re incredibly grateful for everyone who’s volunteered their time and energy to make Boonton a cleaner and more beautiful place,” said Natalie Piscitelli, Executive Director of Boonton Main Street. “This program is about more than just picking up trash—it’s about building a stronger, more connected community.”
Volunteers will be provided with garbage bags (both small and large) and gloves to ensure a safe and efficient clean-up. The event is open to all ages, and community members are encouraged to bring friends and neighbors.
Those interested in joining future clean-up efforts can sign up by visiting www.SustainableBoonton.com. For questions or further details, email Natalie at [email protected].
Boonton’s Adopt A Block program exemplifies what can be accomplished when local pride meets community action.
HANOVER — The Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) of Hanover Township will co-host its Annual Business Networking Event on Wednesday, June 11, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at All Seasons Golf & Social Club, located at 235 Ridgedale Avenue, Cedar Knolls.
Designed exclusively for businesses located within Hanover Township, the event offers a unique opportunity to meet fellow business owners, celebrate new and established local businesses, and enjoy an engaging evening of networking. Attendees will also have the chance to tour the All Seasons facility and test out their golf swing on state-of-the-art golf simulators.
Food and beverages will be provided, including beer and wine.
This year’s event will feature keynote speaker Erin Saxton, a multi-Emmy-nominated and award-winning TV producer, PR expert, and keynote speaker. With over 20 years of experience in media and public relations—including work with The View, Good Morning America, and Barbara Walters Specials—Saxton will share valuable insights on forging strong connections through marketing, public relations, and social media.
Businesses interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP as soon as possible. RSVP by completing this form or by emailing [email protected] with your business name, address, names of up to three attendees, contact information, and the year the business was established. Businesses can also indicate if they wish to contribute items or reserve a table to promote their services (please note tables are located outside the tent).
Hanover —The Whippany Park High School Class of 1985 is gearing up to celebrate its 40th Reunion on Saturday, September 20, 2025.
Four decades after graduation, classmates will come together to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the lasting friendships and memories made during their high school years. Whether you walked the halls every day or moved away soon after graduation, all members of the Class of 1985 are invited to join the fun and make this milestone gathering one to remember.
For more information and to RSVP, please contact Bev Dickinson at [email protected].
Mark your calendars and get ready for a night full of nostalgia and laughter!
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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