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Morris County Dedicates Susan O’Donnell Head Start Headquarters

By
Frank Cahill
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Susan O’Donnell and Morris County Commissioner Christine Myers with a resolution she presented on behalf of the entire Morris County Board of County Commissioners.

DOVER — Local officials, families, and community partners gathered yesterday to celebrate the grand opening of a newly renovated and expanded Head Start facility in Dover — now officially named the Susan O’Donnell Head Start Headquarters, in honor of the recently retired executive director whose decade of leadership transformed early childhood education in Morris County.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony at 18 Thompson Avenue marked the completion of four new classrooms and major upgrades to the site of the original Head Start location in Morris County. The event also coincides with the 60th anniversary of Head Start’s founding, with Morris County having participated in the federal initiative since its launch in 1965.

“Today, we’re not just celebrating a beautifully renovated building; we’re honoring a legacy,” said Commissioner Christine Myers, who presented a formal Resolution of Honor on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners. “Susan didn’t just grow Head Start in Morris County — she elevated it. With people like her, there are no limits to what we deliver, not just for our children, but for future generations.”

During her ten-year tenure as executive director, which concluded with her retirement in January 2025, O’Donnell oversaw a period of remarkable growth. Enrollment doubled as she led critical facility expansions in Dover and Morris Plains, including the Robert C. Grant Center that opened in 2020 at 1 Medical Drive in Morris County Central Park.

Morris County Commissioner Christine Myers, President of the Head Start of Morris County Board of Directors Robert C. Grant and retired Head Start Executive Director Susan O’Donnell.

Both sites recently earned five-star ratings from Grow NJ Kids, making them the only Head Start locations in New Jersey to achieve the distinction.

O’Donnell’s impact extends beyond her professional role, having long been a dedicated advocate and volunteer, serving on numerous community boards and committees. Since 2008, she has been a member of the Morris County Youth Services Advisory Committee (YSAC), where she helps guide countywide policies and funding for at-risk youth.

“The work of this organization begins and ends here for the past 60 years. Our team is made up of absolute superstars. Every one of you has contributed to the success of Head Start. I’m so grateful and blessed to have had this opportunity for ten years — working with people I have grown to love, along with a Board of Directors that has been so supportive of the program,” said O’Donnell in her remarks at the ceremony.

State Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Dover Mayor James Dodd, and representatives from the offices of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and U.S. Senator Andy Kim also praised O’Donnell and presented honors recognizing her contributions to the children and families of Morris County.

Among those in attendance were County Administrator Deena Leary, Assistant Administrator Brian Murray, and Human Services Director Kasey Errico. Bob Grant, a longtime president of the Head Start Board of Trustees and namesake of the Morris Plains facility, emceed the program.

“Ten years ago, Head Start was going through a challenging period, and we knew we needed someone with the right vision to move us forward. Susan elevated every aspect of this organization. From curriculum to community engagement, her focus was always on doing what was best for the children. We wouldn’t be where we are today without her,” said Grant.

The celebration also served to introduce Juan Fernandez as the new executive director. Fernandez, who previously served as facilities manager during the Dover renovations, presented O’Donnell with a card signed by children in the program and pledged to continue building on her legacy.

The mission of Head Start Community Program of Morris County, founded in 1965, is to partner with families to provide comprehensive support for child development and school readiness, from prenatal through kindergarten ages, for the community’s most vulnerable children.

The organization currently serves 316 families, providing free programs for expectant mothers, infants, toddlers and preschoolers at sites throughout Morris County. Head Start services are responsive to each child and family’s ethnic, cultural and linguistic heritage.

More information about Head Start services in Morris County is available by calling 973-989-5640 or by visiting the organization’s website, headstartmc.org.

Lakeland Hills YMCA Launches “Grit ’n Climb” to Build Youth Resilience

By
Frank Cahill
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Participants in Lakeland Hills YMCA’s new “Grit ’n Climb” program take on the climbing wall at Randolph Climbing Center, building confidence, teamwork, and resilience along the way.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is introducing a new youth development program, Grit ’n Climb, as part of its award-winning resilience series. Designed for children ages 8 to 12, the initiative blends physical activity with emotional and social growth in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Weekly sessions begin Wednesday, October 15, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Randolph Climbing Center. Through rock climbing, team-building, and guided reflection, participants will learn how to tackle real-world challenges with confidence, courage, and compassion.

“Grit ’n Climb is about more than just climbing walls,” said Alex Martinez, CEO of Lakeland Hills Family YMCA. “It’s about equipping kids with the inner strength to face life’s obstacles and feel a sense of belonging.”

Led by trained YMCA staff, the program focuses on resilience, peer connection, and emotional well-being.

Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. For full program details and to register, visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com.

Lakeland Hills YMCA Hosts Free Outdoor Concert Featuring Parsippany’s Allegro Orchestra

By
Frank Cahill
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Members of the Allegro Encore Symphony, part of The Music Shop in Parsippany, perform during the outdoor summer concert at Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, taking the audience on a musical journey around the world.

MOUNTAIN LAKES — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA invites residents to enjoy an evening of music and community at a free Outdoor Summer Concert on Thursday, August 7, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The event will feature a performance by the Allegro Orchestra from The Music Shop in Parsippany, presenting their Summer Encore Group in a family-friendly program titled “A Musical Journey Around the World.” The concert will take place on the YMCA’s scenic outdoor lawn and includes a mix of classical favorites and cultural selections from around the globe.

“We’re excited to offer this community celebration where families and neighbors can come together through the joy of music,” said Alex Martinez, CEO of Lakeland Hills Family YMCA. “This concert reflects our commitment to strengthening community and creating shared experiences that uplift.”

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic-style meals to enjoy during the performance. In case of rain, the concert will be moved indoors.

Admission is free, and registration is suggested. To sign up or learn more, visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com.

CCM and Table of Hope Host Annual Backpack Giveaway for Morris County Families

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM), in partnership with Table of Hope, will once again host its annual Backpack Giveaway to help Morris County families prepare for the upcoming school year. This year’s event will take place on Friday, August 15, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Parking Lot 1 on CCM’s Randolph campus, located at 214 Center Grove Road.

The giveaway is open exclusively to Morris County residents, and pre-registration is encouraged by clicking here. Backpacks containing essential school supplies will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. To maintain safety and efficiency, attendees must remain in their vehicles; walk-ups will not be permitted.

Now in its fifth year, the event reflects CCM’s commitment to community engagement. In addition to this back-to-school initiative, CCM and Table of Hope partner annually for a Thanksgiving food distribution that serves over 600 local families.

“Partnering with Table of Hope for this annual event reflects our commitment to changing lives and strengthening communities,” said CCM President Dr. Anthony J. Iacono. “We are proud to support families by helping ensure children have the tools they need to succeed in school.”

This event is made possible through a strong collaboration of local and state leaders, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Alstede Farms, CCM staff and faculty, corporate sponsors, and a dedicated team of volunteers.

Founded in 2011, Table of Hope is a nonprofit organization based in Morris County, focused on reducing food insecurity and supporting educational needs across the region.

For more information or to donate, visit www.tableofhopenj.org or email [email protected].

Ciattarelli Picks Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon as Running Mate

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Sheriff James Gannon with New Jersey Republican Governor Candidate Jack Ciattarelli at Johnny's in Boonton on Tuesday, July 23. Photo by Chris Illic

BOONTON — Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli has selected Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon as his running mate for lieutenant governor, solidifying a ticket that emphasizes law-and-order leadership and broad crossover appeal.

Gannon, 64, is a decorated law enforcement veteran and three-term sheriff known for his bipartisan respect and strong electoral track record in Morris County. A former Boonton beat cop, Gannon rose through the ranks to become deputy chief of investigations in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, handling more than 120 homicide cases and serving on the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Ciattarelli’s selection of Gannon reinforces his campaign’s public safety message and shores up Republican support in a region where Democrats, including Rep. Mikie Sherrill, have made gains in recent cycles. Notably, Gannon has maintained a cordial relationship with Sherrill, who has praised him across party lines.

The formal announcement was made this morning at 9:30 a.m. at Johnnies Tavern in Boonton, a well-known local gathering spot.

Gannon was chosen over several Republican contenders, including State Senator Holly Schepisi, Assemblyman Michael Inganamort, Middletown Mayor Tony Perry, and Marine Corps veteran Nick De Gregorio. Assemblyman Don Guardian was also under consideration.

A native of Boonton and the son of a decorated NYPD detective, Gannon was raised in a tight-knit Irish-Polish family. His extensive community involvement includes volunteering as a firefighter and EMT, co-founding the Morris County Emerald Society, and dressing as Santa each year for local children. He also created the “Feel Better Bears” initiative with Senator Anthony Bucco to provide comfort to children during police interactions.

Gannon is a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town, which serves the communities of Boonton, Boonton Township, and Mountain Lakes. The Kiwanis mission is: “Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.” His long-standing dedication to youth and community service reflects the values of the organization.

Gannon’s decades-long law enforcement résumé includes involvement in major cases such as the FuncoLand double homicide in Roxbury, the murder of 10-year-old Walter Contreras in Morristown, and the long-unsolved 1982 Rockaway Mall shooting of 16-year-old Christopher Thomas. He also assisted in the FBI investigation of the Sidney Reso kidnapping and murder.

Before becoming sheriff, Gannon served as the global head of security risk at Novartis Pharmaceuticals. He holds degrees from County College of Morris and William Paterson University and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. He currently serves as vice chair of Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital and teaches at Centenary University.

Gannon’s personal life has been marked by loss. His wife of 26 years passed away in 2010 after battling multiple sclerosis. His brother, Superior Court Judge Edward Gannon, died in 2016 just as Jim launched his first sheriff campaign. Their father died in 1993 from cancer.

In 2016, Gannon ran for sheriff after Edward Rochford, the eight-term incumbent, opted not to seek re-election. Gannon won the GOP primary with 65% and defeated Democrat Mark Dombrowski in the general election by more than 41,000 votes, outperforming both Donald Trump and Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen in the county. He won re-election in 2019 and 2022, the latter unopposed.

Under Gannon’s leadership, the sheriff’s office became a model for community policing, mental health crisis response, and addiction services. He launched Hope One, a nationally recognized mobile outreach unit addressing opioid addiction, mental health, and homelessness. His department was among the first in the state to mandate body-worn cameras.

Politically, Gannon has supported fellow Republicans in contested primaries, including State Senator Joe Pennacchio, Assemblyman Jay Webber, and Assemblyman Brian Bergen. This year, he backed Parsippany Mayor James Barberio in a competitive GOP primary.

Gannon is also seeking a fourth term as sheriff in November. Although Democrats did not field a candidate, he may remain on the ballot while running for lieutenant governor—mirroring Sheila Oliver’s dual candidacy in 2017. If elected lieutenant governor, Ciattarelli would appoint a replacement sheriff, subject to Senate confirmation, with a special election held in 2026.

This is Ciattarelli’s second time selecting a running mate. In 2021, he tapped former State Senator Diane Allen in his bid for governor.

Democratic nominee Mikie Sherrill has until July 28 to name her lieutenant governor candidate.

Charges Filed in Connection with Child’s Death at Residence in Florham Park

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

FLORHAM PARK — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Florham Park Police Chief Joseph Orlando confirmed charges have been filed in connection with the July 6, death of a three-year-old at a home in Florham Park.

On July 6 at approximately 10:41 p.m., Florham Park Police responded to a residence on Woods End Road for an unresponsive, semi-conscious 43-year-old woman, later identified as Jeanine Glass.

Upon the arrival of FPPD officers and EMS, police officers located Jeanine Glass unresponsive on the first floor of the residence. Her clothes were noted to be wet. Medical interventions were provided to Glass, who was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

Officers accompanied a family member upstairs to gather information related to the condition and treatment of Jeanine Glass. In a hallway bathroom, a three-year-old girl was found unresponsive, clothed, face down in a bathtub, in several inches of water. Immediate resuscitative efforts were performed on the three-year old girl, who was transported to an area hospital for treatment. The girl was pronounced deceased at the hospital. A postmortem examination by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office remains pending.

On July 22, 2025, Jeanine Glass, 43, of Florham Park, was charged with first-degree Murder, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1) and (2); and second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(2). Upon being discharged from the hospital, Glass was taken into custody and transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility. Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, Glass will remain in custody pending future court proceedings.

The circumstances into the incident were investigated by the Florham Park Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit.

Prosecutor Carroll said, “The death of the little girl is a heartbreaking and senseless loss for the Florham Park community. Our hearts go out to all those coping with this unconscionable tragedy, including loved ones and first responders who answered the call that night. For the sake of the surviving family, we ask that citizens exercise discretion and compassion while discussing the situation on social media. Please remember that these are real people, your neighbors, involved here.”

Chief Orlando said, “I want to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Morris County Sheriff’s Department for the interagency cooperation exhibited during this horrific incident, which allowed for a successful conclusion to what is the most heinous of crimes. In particular, I want to recognize the investigative efforts of Detective Sergeant Pietropinto, Detective Jenna Powers, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Department Criminal Investigations Division, all of whose professionalism contributed to the outcome of this 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.

Jefferson Township Police Department to Host National Night Out

By
Frank Cahill
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JEFFERSON — The Jefferson Township Police Department invites the community to its annual National Night Out celebration on Tuesday, August 5, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at 1033 Weldon Road.

This family-friendly event will feature an exciting evening of free food, free drinks, and free activities, including a bounce house, range demonstration, corn hole, and much more.

Community partners such as MFAS, Jefferson Rescue, Fire Company 1 & 2, Jefferson Library, Jefferson DPW, and a petting zoo will be present to engage and entertain residents of all ages.

Join the Jefferson Township Police Department in celebrating unity and strengthening community relationships through this fun-filled night.

Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Firefighters at

By
Frank Cahill
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Over 3,000 Calls in 2024

HANOVER — In celebration of National Ice Cream Day, local firefighters are inviting the community to join them for a cool and meaningful event: Ice Cream with Firefighters. The event will be held on Sunday, July 20, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 82 Ridgedale Avenue.

Attendees will be treated to complimentary ice cream sandwiches and bottled water, while also getting the chance to interact with first responders. Fire engines and ambulances will be on display, providing a fun and educational experience for children and families.

This community event is a great opportunity to thank our local heroes and enjoy a sweet summer treat with neighbors.

Boonton Township to Celebrate 150th Anniversary with Fireworks

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Residents are invited to enjoy a night under the stars as Boonton Township hosts its Annual Fireworks Display at RVA Fields on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. The celebration marks the township’s 150th Anniversary and promises an evening full of fun for all ages.

Admission is free, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for comfortable viewing of the fireworks show. Parking is available at RVA Fields, located at 353 Powerville Road.

Prior to the fireworks, festivities will begin at 6:00 p.m. with music, bounce houses, and classic treats including ice cream, hamburgers, hotdogs, and cotton candy. The family-friendly event will run until the fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m.

In case of inclement weather, a rain date has been scheduled for Sunday, July 27, 2025.

All are welcome to attend. Please note: No alcoholic beverages will be permitted at the event.

Applebee’s® Celebrates 21 Years of Fighting Childhood Cancer with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation

By
Frank Cahill
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Applebee’s at 435 Route 46 proudly launched its annual fundraiser for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, transforming the restaurant into a “Lemonade Stand” and serving up the NEW Strawberry Lemon Sunshine to support pediatric cancer research.

DOVER — Applebee’s® kicked off its annual fundraiser for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding pediatric cancer research and family support programs. In celebration of its 21-year partnership with ALSF, now through August 31, Applebee’s will donate 50¢ from the sale of every NEW Strawberry Lemon Sunshine sold in a restaurant to ALSF. Additionally, Applebee’s restaurants nationwide will transform into “Lemonade Stands” and invite guests and neighbors to join in the fight to end childhood cancer. Applebee’s is located at 435 Route 46, Dover.

Since the partnership first began in 2005, Applebee’s has raised more than $18 million for ALSF, funding 360,000 hours of pediatric cancer research for scientists to search for more cures for all kids with cancer.

“We’re honored to celebrate 21 years of partnership with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and to have raised more than $18 million to fund lifesaving pediatric cancer research,” said John Peyton, Applebee’s president and Dine Brands CEO. “At Applebee’s, we take Doin’ Good in the Neighborhood to heart and together with our franchisees and guests, look forward to raising more than ever this year!”

This year, guests can join Applebee’s to support ALSF’s Childhood Cancer Heroes in their fight through the following ways:

  • Add $1, $5, $10, or $20 Digital Lemons to their cart when ordering on Applebees.com or the Applebee’s mobile app.
  • Enjoy a refreshing NEW Strawberry Lemon Sunshine when dining in a restaurant – from which 50¢ will be donated to ALSF.
  • Click the “Donate Now” button to contribute when purchasing an Applebee’s Gift Card on Applebees.com.
  • Head to your local Applebee’s to learn more ways your local restaurant may be participating!

“Applebee’s is one of ALSF’s most dedicated partners, raising money in neighborhoods across the country since 2005,” said Liz Scott, Alex’s mom and Co-Executive Director of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. “Applebee’s prominence and national reach have helped introduce countless people over the years to ALSF and raised more than $18 million in the fight against childhood cancer. We are truly grateful for their continued partnership to help find cures and support families during their child’s treatment and beyond.”

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of 4-year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott, who was fighting cancer and wanted to raise money to find cures for all children with cancer. By the time Alex passed away at the age of 8, she had raised $1 million. Since then, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a worldwide fundraising movement and the largest independent childhood cancer charity in the U.S. ALSF is a leader in funding pediatric research projects across the globe and providing programs to families affected by childhood cancer. For more information, visit AlexsLemonade.org.

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