PHOTO GALLERY: Morris County reader-submitted photos 2015

Boonton High School students visited Home for Good Dog Rescue in Berkeley Heights on Wednesday, Dec. 23, to present the rescue dog organization a check for $500 they had raised. Pictured: left to right, bottom row: Shakay Simpson (10th), Carly Jameson (11th), Yale Levey (northeast coordinator of Main Street Philanthropy), Abbe Fried (donation manager, Home for Good Dog Rescue), Susan Strell (foster coordinator, Home for Good Dog Rescue), Cassandra Colaizzi (11th), Renald Navarro (10th), Katie Glass (guidance/adviser), Carla Garcia (12th). Second/last row, left to right: Lane Balaban (guidance counselor/adviser), Christian Kielbowicz (11th), Erik Schneider (11th), Rich Errico (treasurer and co-founder, Home for Good Dog Rescue), Sameer Ahmad (10th), Lea Johanning (10th), Giancarlo Venturini (11th), William Cartelli (11th), Toriann Launzinger (10th), Conor Sikora (11th), Ryan Donaway (11th), Christopher Crevani (10th).

Members of the Roxbury Woman’s Club gathered in December at Bells’ Mansion in Stanhope for their annual holiday dinner.

“Zip A Dee Doo Dah” performed by Arts Access dancer Dani Urso-King and professional dancer Patty Romano Matheny Medical and Educational Center. The dance was choreographed by Urso-King.

The Morris Plains Community Band gave a performance for the residents, friends and staff at Sunrise Assisted Living. The recently formed band plays traditional American music and loves performing and playing for music lovers. Larry Ripley is the bandleader and organized the band and conducts.

Larry Ripley conducts the band. The Morris Plains Community Band gave a performance for the residents, friends and staff at Sunrise Assisted Living. The recently formed band plays traditional American music and loves performing and playing for music lovers. Larry Ripley is the bandleader and organized the band.

Trumpet players Jeremy Dain an dTed Krisanda perform with the band. The Morris Plains Community Band performs for the residents, friends and staff at Sunrise Assisted Living in Morris Plains. The recently formed band plays traditional American music and loves performing and playing for music lovers. Larry Ripley is the bandleader and organized the band. Morris Plains, N J. Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015.

Randolph High School musicians (left to right) are: Joe Recchia, Alice Pryor and Chris Mantell.

Mount Olive Mayor Rob Greenbaum was on hand to welcome AVD as well as officiate the ribbon cutting. Greenbaum was joined by Greg Stewart, president of the Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce, and Harry Browne, Chamber of Commerce member, for the event.

Pictured (left to right) are Senator Cory Booker, Isla Okkinga, Representative Donald Payne Jr. and Chairman of the Congressional Award Board Paxton Baker.

Pictured (left to right) are: Klaas Okkinga, of Chatham; Jane Okkinga of Chatham; F.M. Kirby Children’s Center of the Madison Area YMCA Executive Director Harriet McCarter, of Madison; Madison Area YMCA Volunteer & Organizational Advancement Coordinator Melissa DeSalvo, of Madison; New Jersey Alliance Volunteer of the Year award recipient Isla Okkinga, of Chatham; Madison Area YMCA President & CEO Diane Mann, of Madison; and Madison Area YMCA Vice President of Organizational Advancement Sharon Kunas, of Madison.

Friends and family celebrated Anthony Falduto’s 100th birthday with a party on Dec. 6 at Cielo Restaurant in Fairfield. On Monday, Dec. 7, Montville Township awarded him with an award and the VFW gave him a plaque for his service. Governor Chris Christie sent a letter congratulating Falduto on his 100 years and his service to our country.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany presented a check to "Camp Nejeda Foundation" in the amount of $10,000 on Thursday, Dec. 10 at its weekly breakfast meeting. The money was donated to Camp Nejeda utilizing funds raised at their recent fundraising event, "The 19th Annual Grand Tasting” held in October at Hanover Manor. Camp Najeda has recognized its summer camp programs help children learn how to cope so they, too, can become everything that is possible. That fits right in with the goal of Kiwanis to change the world one child and one community at a time. It is a joy to be able to support them with this donation,” Kiwanis President Connie L. Keller said. "It just don't get any better than this working with a great Camp Nejeda and supporting children and teens with type 1 diabetes," said Committee Chairman Michael A. Mulhaul. At Camp Nejeda youth with diabetes are given the opportunity to live, if only for one or two weeks, in a Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets at the Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46, each Thursday at 7:15 a.m. for breakfast. For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, visit parsippanykiwanis.org. Pictured are Wine Tasting Committee Chairman Michale Mulhaul, Foundation President Mimi Letts, presents a check for $10,000 to Camp Nejeda Development Director, Jennifer Passerini, Executive Director, Bill Vierbuchen, as Kiwanis President Connie Keller looks on.

Camilla and Margot Breen enjoy a visit with Bruce Jayne as Santa Claus at Hoffman’s Supply True Value in Long Valley.

The Chatham High School Choral group performed a Holiday concert recently.

Members of the Italian American Police Society of New Jersey Executive Board and Mickey and Minnie Mouse at the 2014 Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Jersey Christmas party.

Members of the Italian American Police Society of New Jersey, Santa and Mrs. Claus and some of the youngsters from the 2014 Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Jersey Christmas party.

Santa Claus, played by Daniel Schievella, at the 2014 Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Jersey Christmas party.

William Schievella, President and Founder of the Italian American Police Society of New Jersey, has 28 years in law enforcement. Currently the Rockaway Township resident is an Undersheriff in the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

Mary Ann Coyne, Club First Vice President, looks forward to this annual project.

Members of the the 25th Anniversary Class of Leadership Morris: Front row: K. Doyle, J Nazzaro, K. Agati, J. Bednar, P. Singer, C. Haraskin, D. Boyce, L. Wasahkowski, C. Gocel, M Farris, C. Lake, W. Long, M. Togneri, J. Volz, F. Loveys. Second Row standing: Lt. Col. I. Parker, CSM H. White, S. Hunter, C. Klein, M. Titone, K. Unger, K. McMorland, S. Flannery, J. Villahermosa, R. Richardson, S. Jaipersaud, V. Maffucci, A. Lewis, M. Trueba, B. Grant, W. Miley, J. Padilla Gonzalez, L. Cerutti, D. Kelly, M. Pizzano.

Enrollment is now taking place for the Spring 2016 Semester at County College of Morris

As a challenge to raise money for No-Shave November, Kennedy School Principal Eric Renfors asked each student to donate at least one dollar to raise awareness about cancer prevention and awareness. If the school met the goal of $236, one dollar for each student, he would shave off only half of his beard for the day making sure all the students got to see him. The one-day fundraiser turned out to be a huge success. The Kennedy Cougars showed just how much they really care and support one another by raising $941.94 in just one day with additional donations continuing to be accepted. Thanks to the very generous donation by second grader Tyler Curtis, he got the ceremonial first clipper through half Mr. Renfors’ beard. With another very generous donation, siblings, Ryan and Juliana Geller got the first picture with Renfors as “two-faced”. “Thanks for helping us to demonstrate that the Kennedy Cougars care and for helping us continue to teach our students the lesson that even though they may be small, they can still make a big difference!” said Principal Renfors. Celebrating No-Shave November are Principal Eric Renfors and siblings, Ryan and Juliana Geller.

Chatham High School Choral Group performs at the Morris Museum.

Madison Area Stop & Shop Customer Service Manager Anthony Acevedo, YMCA Community and Member Engagement Manager Gwen Riddick and Stop & Shop staff member Coleen Hiltz are pictured with almost 60 Stop & Shop “Food for Friends” holiday trimmings boxes that were distributed to families in need.

Pictured (left to right) are: Diane Mann, Madison Area YMCA President & CEO; Oldendorp Group representatives: Debbie Hayford, Agent and Team Support; Charlie Oldendorp, Agent and Team Support; Amanda Peck, Agent and Team Support; Zander Oldendorp, Buyer’s Agent; Susan Oldendorp, Listing Agent; Neal Oldendorp, Agent and Team Support; Kare Matrisciano, F.M. Kirby Children’s Center Administrative Services Manager; Brigitte Kelly, Project Community Pride Director and Amie Herman, Madison Area YMCA Organization Development Director.

The Woman's Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills wrapped over 175 tins of holiday goodies for area nursing and care homes at their Annual Candy and Cookie Meeting recently. The cookies were donated to residents of Sunrise Assisted Living Facility, the Country Home, both in Morris Plains and the Eric Johnson House in Morristown. The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women's Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC).

Eighth grade student council officers and representatives worked hard to make the Randolph Middle School Food Drive a big success. Pictured, back row (from left to right) are: SGA teacher advisor Ryan Hallock, Adam Gellert, Brian Li, Charlotte Gu, Veddy Panadiwal, Claire Doto, Emma Halper and SGA teacher advisor Jess Zshack. Front row (left to right) are: Bethany Neufeld, Andrew Hanrahan, Josephine Wu, Jacqueline Wu, Mitchell Hert and Rebecca Tieman.

Several members of the Thursday Morning Club gathered at the Madison Community House to support the new statewide NJSFWC (New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs) NAMI initiative. This particular initiative of supporting the National Alliance for Mental Illness involved members donating full-size backpacks or money towards the purchase of them and then filling them with personal items such as socks, reusable water bottles, notepads, thermal mugs, and towels. Pictured (from left to right) are: Carol Schessler, Vice-President of the Thursday Morning Club, Gail Silver Schafran, NAMI representative and President Karen Jeisi.

The National English Honor Society officers are pictured with Humanities Supervisor Ben Horwitz, left, and advisor Sarah Townsend, right, (left to right) public relations officer Madeline Frankel, secretary Julia Rossetti, treasurer Natalie Stadler, president Cindy Sharra, hours coordinator Heather Soled and vice president Nina Seretis.

Georgeann Ventola, representing The Garden Club of Montville, donated a carload of Wish List items and $160 for our animal friends to Gail Emery Animal Control for the Town of Montville and Stacey Vender of Montville Pet Parents.

Rishi Lalbahadur at his Eagle Scout project, a serenity patio with benches by Hanover Park High School’s main entrance.

A volunteer appreciation reception was held on Oct. 11 at Loyola Jesuit Center in Morristown to thank benefactors and friends and to dedicate the prayer gardens in memory of Frank Diassi, Sr., Loyola’s first groundskeeper. Pictured (from left to right) are: Marianne and Frank Diassi, Jr. of Far Hills and Fr. George Witt, provincial assistant for spiritual ministries in the USA Northeast Province.

Woman's Club of Parsippany Troy Hills celebrated Halloween during their October General Meeting!

The Roxbury Twp. Public Schools took a stand against drugs, bullying and violence during October. Kennedy Elementary School students were superheroes on Tuesday, Oct. 6 followed by an assembly sponsored by the Kennedy PTA from Omega Man. Pictured at the Omega-Man Assembly are (from left to right), Omega-Man, Principal Eric Renfors, and students Nick and Chris.

Fernbrook Elementary School honored several veterans at its whole school meeting on Wednesday. Left to right: Vietnam veterans Bill Menzel and Jon Cabatic, Angel Soto, Norus Achmetov and Dominick Sabol Sr.

Local students were honored as Mayo Performing Arts Center October Music Students of the Month - Outstanding Vocalist -- prior to the Oct. 30 performance of "Bewitched Broadway." Pictured Front row (from left to right) are: Sarah Lepre, Grade 7, Central Middle School, Parsippany; Evie Mitchell-Harkness, Grade 7, The Peck School, Morristown; Jennifer Nguyen, Grade 8, Mount Olive Middle School, Budd Lake; and Dorian Veliky, Grade 7, Boonton Middle School, Boonton. Back row (from left to right) are: Rachel Castaneda, Grade 12, Hanover Park High School, East Hanover; Kelsie Daniels, Grade 12, Kinnelon High School, Kinnelon; Alexandra Maizys, Grade 8, Pequannock Valley Middle School, Pompton Plains; Grace McCulloch, Grade 12, Madison High School, Madison; Makenzie Schaefer, Grade 12, Morris Hills High School, Rockaway and Sofia Wawrzyniak, Grade 8, Frelinghuysen Middle School, Morristown. Not pictured: Erica Guerrero.

Woman's Club of Parsippany Troy Hills celebrated Halloween during their October General Meeting.

Rosalyn Lippa and Gena Wallenburg’s second grade class at William Mason Elementary School welcomed Marine Kevin McCutcheon on Oct. 23.

Tamala Reynolds, volunteer coordinator, Homeless Solutions, was the guest speaking at a breakfast meeting of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, during October at the Empire Diner. Pictured are Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Connie Keller, Reynolds and Steve Dickens.

Volunteers with American Red Cross, the Town of Morristown, Morristown Fire Department, Morristown Office of Emergency Management, Morristown Community Emergency Response Team and members of North Central Jersey Association of Realtors prepare to go door-to-door to install free smoke alarms and talk to families about fire safety on Saturday.

Hanover Wind Symphony bassoonists (from left to right) are: Joanne Willans of Whippany, Elaine Schlatter of Hackettstown, and Dona Byers of Newark. They will perform at the upcoming "Christmas Presence VIII" concert Dec. 6 at Our Lady of Mercy R.C. Church in Hanover.

The Morris Plains Community Band held its first rehearsal on Oct. 21. Pictured front right: Dave Lintern of South Orange on alto sax. Middle row from left: John Logan of Morris Plains on trumpet, Maggie Loughman of Port Murray on trumpet, Lee Broadwin of Morris Plains on trumpet, Ted Krisanda of Morris Twp.on trumpet and Larry Edelstein of Parsippany on Baritone horn.

Larry Monahan conducting the Morris Plains Cornet Band, circa 1920.

The Thursday Morning Club chose to support the Boatsie’s Boxes State initiative: Operation Christmas Stocking. The Thursday Morning Club collected money and goods and are filling stockings with items to brighten up the holidays for our service people who are far away from home. Hand-knit caps were created by the club’s own “SuPurlaKnits” knitting group. The “SuPurlaKnits” stitched the stockings closed so they would be ready for shipment in time for the holidays. From left to right, they are: Susan Fleming, Pat Robertson, Mae Healy, Kay Leary and Berna Verdile.

The Ironia School’s fourth grade class hosted a recent whole school meeting, which featured lots of fun, music and a slide show with a message. The fourth graders asked every student in the school to make the 2015-16 "the best year ever" and "to be a hero." Students took turns talking to the audience, recognizing birthdays and highlighting other fun events. Pictured is Jaclyn Larent, a fourth grader at the school.

Six Parsippany Girl Scouts, Olivia Dauber, Amanda Farkas, Katy Zicker, Margaret Moutis, Priyanka Yalamanchili and Caroline Nelson, were honored for earning their Gold Award in a ceremony at The Bethel at Mount Tabor on Aug. 10. Each girl completed a sustainable project involving a minimum of 80 hours that impacts the community. Also in attendance were Parsippany Mayor James Barberio, MaryAnn Lewis, Program Director for the Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey and Jennifer Thurkauf, Service Unit Manager for the Parsippany Girl Scouts. Olivia Dauber conducted art appreciation week for after-care students at Mt. Tabor Elementary School. Amanda Farkas designed and built vegetable washing station for Interfaith Food Pantry and conducted learning sessions for children. Margaret Moutis raised awareness of concussions and head injuries by creating a video to include symptoms, facts, healing process. Caroline Nelson led "Fun with Foods Program" week for children aged 8-11 at St. Ann's Church. Priyanka Yalamanchlli created Komfor 4 Kids at Sri Venkateswara Temple to address awareness of young children in emergency situations. Katy Zicker created a website, www.adoptionnetwork.wix.com/chain, for adopted children ages 12-18 to discuss their experiences with being adopted. Pictured (left to right) are: Olivia Dauber, Amanda Farkas, Katy Zicker, Margaret Moutis, Priyanka Yalamanchili and Caroline Nelson.

Steve McKinley, Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey Kiwanis Division 9, installed Carole Howell, right, as a new member of the Denville Kiwanis Club, which will mark 70 years of service next year.

The Long Valley Village Association is hosting their annual Jack O Lantern Display and Contest from 3-6 p.m. on Thursday at the Long Valley Green Market, located at 20 Schooleys Mountain Road.

Members of the Cedar Knolls Fire Department and First Aid Squad, pictured here, need your help. The two organizations are hosting an Open House at 7 p.m. on Nov. 4 at the Cedar Knolls Fire Department, located at 80 Mountain Ave. For more information, call 973-267-5659 or visit www.cedarknollsfd.com.

Chef it Up, located at 141 Route 46 Budd Lake, opened, in August. Chef it Up and Chef it Up 2 Go entertain kids, teens and adults with custom themed cooking parties, classes and special events. Pictured (left to right) at the Chef It Up Grand Opening are Steven Jacobitz, Mayor Rob Greenbaum, Samantha and Colton Curtiss, Lisa Tiron, Sam Bonito, Nick Tirone and Sam Tirone.

The members of the choirs of Grace Church, Madison, under the direction of Dr. Anne Matlack, presented a reunion Evensong to celebrate their return from serving as the choir-in-residence at Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire, England during the week of Aug. 24-30. Pictured are the choir members of the England touring choir in from of the high altar at Winchester.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany recently installed its officers for 2015-2016 at an event held at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46.The new officers are President Connie Keller; President-Elect Greg Elbin; Vice President Frank Cahill; Secretary Karen Gajewski; Treasurer Steve Dickens and Immediate Past President/Foundation President Mimi Letts. Directors include Robert Keller, Carol Tiesi, Karen DeChristopher, Joyce Garrow and Ron Orthwein.

Through the generosity of the customers of the Chatham Shoprite, the Rotary Club of Madison delivered nearly 1400 pounds of groceries and $250 in cash donations on October 4 to the Interfaith Food Pantry. Pictured ared Madison Rotarians Marianne McConnell, President Ray Freaney, Hal Moeller and Suzanne Freaney.

Chester-based YouGiveGoods allows corporations, non-profits, schools or any organization or individual to choose the goods from a charity’s most wanted list and deliver everything right to their door.

Kaitlyn Krause, of Whippany, recently completed her Girl Scout Gold Award by educating her peers about the dangers of texting and driving. She hosted an assembly at her high school, inviting Reggie Shaw, left, and retired New Jersey State Trooper Carsten Boethig.

Sixteen current seniors at Oak Knoll were recognized as AP Scholars. Pictured, from left, are Gayatri Bajaj, of Morris Plains; Rachael Molina, of Westfield; Carmen Ruiz, of Wharton; Grace Jagoe, of Chatham; Margaret Burd, of Morristown; Bridget Hoke, of Flanders; Valerie Ricciardi, of New Vernon; Audrey Picut, of Warren; Christen Hillenbrand, of Summit; Safia Speer, of Mountain Lakes; Emily McCarthy, of Summit; Brianna Gage, of Chatham; Mary Noelke, of Chatham; Tara J. Halter, of Springfield; and Elizabeth Guckian, of Chatham.

Madison Mayor Robert H. Conley was presented with and signed a Proclamation designating Mental Illness Awareness Week from Oct. 4-10, 2015 in Madison at the Town Council meeting held on Monday, Sept. 28. The Thursday Morning Club has been supporting this state-wide NJSFWC NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Health) initiative by selling chocolate bars at various community events and filling backpacks to be distributed to local hospitals for discharged patients who are referred to shelters which house those with mental health issues. All monies raised will be used to support mental health educational programs. Pictured (from left to right) are: Mayor Robert H. Conley, Karen Jeisi, President of the Thursday Morning Club and Assistant 1st Vice-President, Carol Schessler.

The Boonton High School Class of 1950 recently held their 65th-year reunion. Pictured here are the class members who made the event.

Maria Gutierrez of Wharton enjoys a morning workout on the stair mill at the renovated Cardio Room at the Randolph YMCA. Highlights of the Cardio Room are new machines that include cross-trainers, power mills, recumbent bikes, and treadmills with hi-definition individual entertainment centers. A new air handling system and LED lighting adds to members' comfort while working out and banks of TVs, all tuned to different stations, line the walls.

County College of Morris faculty members Dr. Michael Paul and Cathleen McCormackhave been selected for the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Excellence Award.

Venturing Crew 276 from Byram went WENT traveled to Liberty State Park in August to participate in its second clean-up project this year. While the crew was at the park, they weeded, mulched around the trees and performed other general landscaping activities to ready the park for the Liberty Jamboree.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills collected school supplies, backpacks and lunch packs for the children living at Jersey Battered Women’s Service of Morris County residences. Pictured are club members Cathy Haney, Bernadette Cicchino and Club President Marilyn Marion with some of the school supplies. Club Members with some of the school supplies collected and donated to JBWS. From left - Cathy Haney, Bernadette Cicchino and Marilyn Marion, Club President

Quartermaster 3rd Class John Gleason from Parsippany.

Montville Twp. resident Alexander L. Peña, a resident of Montville Twp. resident, and a rising junior at Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, of Montville Twp. completed a four-week summer internship in Representative Rodney P. Frelinghuysen’s (R-NJ 11) Washington, D.C. Congressional Office.

An internationally respected expert on religious violence, Charles Selengut, professor of sociology at County College of Morris professor Charles Selengut has written a new book.

Over 1100 riders and 200 volunteers participated in the Morris Area Freewheelers Foundation’s Revolutionary Ramble Bicycle Tour at Drew University in Madison. Proceeds from the event were donated to local all-volunteer First Aid Squads and to support bike safety programs.

The food pantries at Drakestown United Methodist Church & Christ Church are overflowing with fresh, local produce thanks to the gardeners from The Land Conservancy of New Jersey’s Community Garden in Mt. Olive Township.

Wells Fargo’s Northern New Jersey team volunteers awarded the Community Soup Kitchen and Outreach Center, Inc. with a $7,500 grant. Pictured (from left): Ana Matos, Mary Drury, Kathy Kramer and Suburban North Jersey Area President AZ Abdulghani.

West Morris Central High School senior Eric Marcy Jr.’s “I’m Aware Campaign’' has raised more than $1,700 for NewBridge Services.

“Old Bags” Luncheon Fundraiser Committee Chairs Joen Ferrari and Linda Horn. The Jersey Battered Women’s Service will host their third annual “Old Bags Luncheon, Women Helping Women Gain a Purse of Their Own,” on Oct. 6 at the Spring Brook County Club, located at 9 Spring Brook Road. Event doors open at 11 a.m. and lunch will be served at 12:15 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to bid on more than 200 bags ranging from vintage to new to high-end designer. All proceeds will benefit Jersey Battered Women’s Service, a full-service, private, nonprofit domestic violence agency serving Morris County. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.jbws.org. Content state: Writing In use by: Proofreading state: Reporter(s): Ruse, Leslie Last modified: 09-25 05:22 PM - Ungaro, Joe Requested size: Actual size: 39 lin - 5.42i Category: Contextual use: Normal Description: Correction: Fee reporting: No Usages of this branch: MORPresto 09-27-2015, news/local All usages:

The Morristown High School Class of 1955 Reunion Committee has finalized plans for its 60th Reunion which will be held Oct. 17 at The Madison Hotel, located at 2 Convent Road in Morristown. The Reunion Committee would like to hear from additional classmates who have not yet responded. The reception and hors d’oeuvres will be from noon to 1 p.m., followed by luncheon from 1-4 p.m. Entree is a choice of salmon, filet mignon or roast chicken. 1950s music will be provided. The cost is $55 per person. To attend, send a check to Mrs. Arlene Yannotta (Zagursky), 97 Louis St,, Whippany, N.J. 07981. To contact the Reunion Committee, call Pauline Derrick at 973-723-4760, Ronald Lockwood at 973-747-9651, Trudy Benz Welch at 862-209-1842 or Arlene Yannotta at 973-887-6962. Four key hitters in the Morristown Colonials’ lineup in 1955 were (from left to right), Ronnie Lockwood, Steve Bolcar, Captain Bill Morrison and Richie Markey.

Fourth Graders at Hilltop Country Day School work on a butterfly project.

Robert R. Lazar Middle School students began September 11, 2015 with local first responder, Carol DaCosta. DaCosta, a member of the Montville Township First Aid Squad and Fire Department, led the school in the Pledge of Allegiance. After the pledge, she shared her experiences with students in Richard Crescente’s 8th grade U.S. History classes. DaCosta volunteered to help at Ground Zero following the attacks.

The Universal Health Fair on the Green in Newton featured over 38 practitioners and vendors, terrific entertainment by the Gypsy Funk Squad, Belly Dancer Sai’da and Vinnie G. of the Castle Band. Spray paint artist, Kyle Geseing, created whimsical paintings on canvas right before your eyes. Linda Mitchell and Debra Hollinrake, partners at the Tree of Health Center, took photos with most of the day’s participants. The best vendor contest was won by author and speaker, Azuke Zuke, of Nigeria. The Lions of District 16N screened over 40 people for vision problems. “We definitely look forward to doing it again,” said Bob Brandt of the Lions. Pictured, left to right, are: Linda Mitchell, Debra Hollinrake, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Brandt.

Pictured at a recent GFWC Woman’s Club of Denville & Rockaway’s club meeting are from left, 20-year Club member, Patti Manton, 55-year retired Club member Nan Amato and 25-year Club member Joan Bowling.

Stuart Lefkowitz will speak about his book “Mining Iron in Northwest New Jersey: The People” at the Dover Free Public Library on Monday, Sept. 28.

The Cedar Knolls Fire Department and First Aid Squad recently presented awards to three of their long-time members. Sandy Stannard received an award for 15 years of dedicated service to the Cedar Knolls Fire Department and First Aid Squad. During that time span, Stannard responded to 1,048 first aid calls in addition to training and other non-emergency activities. MaryLou Desimone, a long-time member, received a CPR Save Award for saving the life of a Hanover resident who was stricken with sudden cardiac arrest. With quick intervention, MaryLou revived that person. Shirley Bergen received the "Who Me? Award,” which is given to a volunteer that gives unselfishly of themselves by responding to first aid calls, volunteering for various committees and activities, and having a can do attitude. Pictured (from left to right) are: From left, Sandy Stannard, MaryLou Desimone and Shirley Bergen with display their special awards.

Gordon Meth, the new governor of the New Jersey District Kiwanis International, was sworn in at the annual Kiwanis District convention held Aug. 21-23 at the Princeton Marriott. The Parsippany resident is the former officer of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and has been the recipient of several honors recognizing his years of volunteer service to many Kiwanis projects dedicated to helping children and the community.

New Police Officer Pasquale Parisi is sworn in by Mayor James Barberio while Police Chief Paul Philipps watches.

New Police Officer Pasquale Parisi of Parsippany-Troy Hills was sworn in by Mayor James Barberio on Tuesday.

John Clemens, owner of Main Street Barber Shop in Rockaway, with his friend and fellow barber, Mike DeFelice.

Physical Therapy Assistant Donna Hoehn from Gillette has been nominated for a Special Award by her Matheny School peers. Pictured, Donna Hoehn works with student Megan Blaxill on sitting balance, trunk strengthening, and stretching – all while Megan is out of her wheelchair.

Pictured (from left ) are Eric Medore (Class of 2013 vice president), Katie Ilardi (class adviser), Laura Dessel (class adviser), Gina DiDomenico (public relations) and Blair Bravo, Morris Habitat chief executive officer.

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Jim Auriemma presents a check to Community Hope’s Vice President of Development Julia Bey Ahmet; along with Jenn Stivers, Supportive Services for Veterans Families Director; and Anthony Oakes, Veterans Housing Director.

Member of the 2015 Fire Fighter 1 summer class at the Morris County Fire Training Academy in Parsippany.

The graduation ceremoney for the 2015 Fire Fighter 1 summer class at the Morris County Fire Training Academy in Parsippany.

Rich Osborne, a member of the Morris County Fire Academy Board of Director, addresses the graduates. From left to right are Senior Fire Instructor Jim Schultz, Morris County Fire Marshall and Fire Training Coordinator Lou Pepe, Osborne, and Morris County Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo.

Member of the 2015 Fire Fighter 1 summer class at the Morris County Fire Training Academy in Parsippany.

Christopher Cudia, from Troop 163 in Succasunna, received his Eagle Scout Award, the Boy Scouts of America’s highest award, on June 16 at the Horseshoe Lake Pavilion. His demanding Eagle Scout project benefited the Trails Department of Roxbury and its residents. He built a picnic and rest area next to Table Top Rock along the Gold Trail at Veteran’s Park. Veteran’s Park is located at the top of Mooney Mountain and the site has a beautiful view of Roxbury. Cudia was captain of the Roxbury High School Robotics team during his senior year and excelled in designing and creating robotic systems. He will pursue an engineering degree at college in the fall.

Daniela Norris, a founding member of the International Grief Council. To bring the conversation about grief out of the closet and into the community, Norris helped form the IGC. The group will also host a Celestial Conversations Retreat from 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16 to noon, Sunday, Oct. 18, at Villa Pauline Retreat, located at 252 Bernardsville Road in Mendham. For more information, call 201-787-0961 or email lamayer@msn.com.

Lo Anne Mayer, a member of the International Grief Council, has studied various forms of healing for the past 30 years.

Pictured is Shane Szott, son of David and Andrea Szott of Morristown, who was one of the Matheny School students catching the waves at Asbury Park thanks to the Best Day Foundation. The day started off with some time to play in the sand and complete an obstacle course with a special guest, Spiderman. Afterwards, a team of volunteers took the students onto the boards to help them catch a wave. The activities wrapped up with an awards ceremony and lunch.

Uma Girish, a founding member of the International Grief Council. To bring the conversation about grief out of the closet and into the community, Mayer, along with Daniela Norris from Israel and Canada and Uma Girish from India, formed the International Grief Council. Mayer will also host a Celestial Conversations Retreat from 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16 to noon, Sunday, Oct. 18, at Villa Pauline Retreat, located at 252 Bernardsville Road in Mendham. For more information, call 201-787-0961 or email her at lamayer@msn.com.

The Madison Chamber of Commerce has selected the Madison Area YMCA as the winner of the Merchant of the Month award for July. According to its mission, the Madison Area YMCA is a cause-driven charitable organization dedicated to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Y is inclusive of all people and offers programs and services that develop a healthy spirit, mind and body, and promote the Y core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. “Our Y is pleased to have served this wonderful and vibrant community for more than 140 years,” said Diane Mann, Madison Area YMCA President and CEO. “As a cause-driven charitable organization, all are invited to be enriched by the Y, regardless of income or background.” For more information about the Madison Area YMCA, call 973-377-4945 or visit www.MadisonAreaYMCA.org.

Mariann Moran, OTD, OTR, CHT, Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at Kean University and a resident of Chatham, has been recognized by the American Occupational Therapy Association). At this year’s annual conference she received the Recognition of Achievement Award for her notable contributions to the profession and its consumers in focused areas of occupational therapy practice including clinical, teaching, scholarship, and administration. Dr. Moran has served in leadership positions in both the American Occupational Therapy Association and the New Jersey Occupational Therapy Association, and she has represented the professional of occupational therapy in; the state licensure committee, with state and national legislators and with a variety of insurance companies.

Pictured is Inclined Plane 6 East in Rockaway taken in Sept. 2 1906 by photographer Olin Vough. MORRISTOWN Macculloch Hall Historical Museum will present “Canals of New Jersey” with Linda Barth from the Canal Society of New Jersey at 1 p.m. on Sept. 13 at the Museum, located at 45 Macculloch Avenue in Morristown. Canal author and historian Barth will introduce visitors to the people, the bridges, the locks, and the aqueducts that made D&R Canal work. This waterway, now a “greenway” and the centerpiece of a popular state park, transported men and supplies between New York and Philadelphia during three wars. Inventor John Holland used the canal to deliver his Holland VI submarine to Washington for its Navy trials, and luxury yachts, like J .P. Morgan’s Tarantula, cruised the waterway. For more than 170 years, the D&R Canal has meandered across the narrow waist of New Jersey and was one of the nation’s most successful towpath canals, carrying more tonnage in 1866 than the more famous Erie Canal. Johnson & Johnson, Roebling, and Fleischmann’s Distillery all had their start along the D&R. The program will also include a visit to the Museum’s current exhibit, “Canals of New Jersey.” The traveling exhibit consists of panels which tell the story of New Jersey’s two towpath canals, the Morris and the Delaware and Raritan.For more information, visit www.maccullochhall.org.

Thirty-nine Montville Township Public Schools educators received Years of Service Pins at the start of the 2015-2016 academic year. The Pins were presented for 15, 20, 25 and 30 Years of Service.

Loyola Jesuit Center in Morristown will host its 24th Annual Fr. Harvey Haberstroh Memorial Golf Classic on Sept. 17 at the A.W. Tillinghast designed Suburban Golf Club in Union.

Anthony Polk is pictured with his Eagle Scout shadow box which was a gift to him from the Troop. He recently became an Eagle Scout.

Photo courtesy of County College of Morris

Charlotte Rodgers, of Morristown, a 2015 graduate from the County College of Morris, will be attending the University of Pennsylvania for the fall semester. A math major at CCM, Rodgers expects to earn a bachelor’s in mathematics.

During May, Byram Venturing Crew 276 attended the 53rd West Point Camporee, one of only 250 units selected out of 16,000 applications. The group enjoyed camping, physical training, a flag ceremony, games and explorations. They also had the thrill of watching West Point’s Black Knights jump team land right in front of them after jumping out of a helicopter. Pictured is Byram Venturing Crew 276 at their campsite with their West Point cadet, Mitchell Valenza.

During June, the Montville Twp. High School Science Research Program held the Third Annual Science Research Symposium. The in-depth, research-based, class is open to MTHS sophomores with a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math. Junior Thilaka Arunachalam is conducting original research as part of “The CounterAct Project: Defense Against Chemical Terror Weapons” Her lab research on sulfur mustard exposure is funded by the Department of Defense and the National Institute of Health. Arunachalam explained her findings to Glenn Cooper and other members of the public who attended the Third Annual MTHS Science Research Symposium.

Coach Kevin McPeek and T.J. Lesko of the Locked-In Expos, a 13-and-under baseball team based in Cedar Knolls. Lesko was named MVP of the Jack Cust Diamond Nation Mid-Summer Classic.

Veteran Nathaniel Stokes (left), his wife, Cynthia, and veteran Charles Harris gather their Welcome Them Home wish list items in front of their new homes at Valley Brook Village, a 62-unit supported housing residence developed by Community Hope and Peabody Properties.

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Starr Garcia, a native of Hopatcong, puts a registration band on a patient at a medical site at Hermandad de los Pensionados in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

The Mount Olive 12 and Under Travel Softball Team finished second in the 2015 Babe Ruth World Series. Pictured in the bottom row (left to right) are Sammy Popo, Bri Segnello, Kaitlyn Dean, Jessie Jimenez, Jenna Galdi and JoJo Pettenger. In the middle row are Anna Callahan, Morgan Joseph, Ashleigh Gallagher, Leah Schmidt, Kailey Mehl, Nicole Tahmoosh and Lindsey Walter. In the back row, left to right, are manager Paul Segnello, coach Joe Tahmoosh, coach Matt Callahan and coach Steve Schmidt.

Daniel Rubin of Troop 155 recently completed his Eagle Scout Service Project at Employment Horizons’ property at 10 Ridgedale Ave. in the Cedar Knolls section of the township. Rubin oversaw 57 volunteers, putting in more than 200 work hours to complete a beautification project at the property. Here, Rubin presents a check to Maria Florio (left), director of community relations at Employment Horizons, and Jurate Fiory, executive director of the organization.

Founded in 1957, Employment Horizons provides comprehensive employment training and job placement services to persons with disabilities and other disadvantages in the greater Morris County area.

The Morris Museum’s Jazz Showcase concert series will feature a performance by pianist Mark Shane at 8 p.m. on Monday at the museum, located at 6 Normandy Heights Road. Shane has accompanied many well-known signers and played many famous events including the 50th anniversary of Benny Goodman at Carnegie Hall and for several Presidential Inaugural Balls. At the Bickford, he will be surrounded by a band of renowned musicians, including Dan Levinson (clarinet & sax), Matt Hoffmann (vibes), Jennifer Vincent (bass) and Kevin Dorn (drums). Tickets are $15 per person in advance and $18 per person at the door. For more information or tickets, call 973-971-3706 or visit morrismuseum.org.

Eye Level of Morris Plains distributed information giveaways to children at Staples Small Business Showcase. “This is a great opportunity for chamber members to display their goods and services to the customers of Staples and to increase their brand awareness,” said Frank Cahill, Executive Board Member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce. Pictured is Center Director, Jean Charte.

On Saturday, Aug. 8, Parsippany Office of Emergency Management and Eye Level participated in "Staples Small Business Showcase," sponsored by the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce. Parsippany OEM members Nicolas Limanov, Al Goldberg and Robert Beck were distributing literature, demonstrating ham radio equipment and answering questions from the public. Parsippany OEM was recruiting new members during the event. If anyone is interested in joining OEM, email Eric Hubner, director, at cert@parsippany.net. Pictured are Parsippany OEM members Nicolas Limanov, Al Goldberg and Robert Beck with Staples Store Manager Daniel Smolinski.

Johnny Madaras breaks ground for his Eagle Scout project, a bird blind.

Work continues on the bird blind.

On a goodwill mission with the Kiwanis, Lance M. Incitti visits with students in the mountains outside of Plaisance, Haiti.

Lance M. Incitti with a young boy and his mother in the town of Plaisance, Haiti, while on a goodwill mission with the Kiwanis.

From left: Lance M. Incitti and Ruth Incitti of Denville Kiwanis, Sue Fleshner of Kentucky-Tennessee, and Barron Segar, senior vice president chief development officer, USFUND/UNICEF.

In the town of Limonade, Haiti, Lance M. Incitti watched as Pauline got her tetanus shot, courtesy of the Kiwanis.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany donated school supplies to the Parsippany Food Pantry. Club Secretary Karen Gajewski (center) and immediate Past President/Foundation President Carol Tiesi (right) presented the school supplies to Parsippany-Troy Hills Acting Director of Human Services Michele Picone. Visit www.parsippanykiwanis.org.

The youngest choristers are Sam Wroath, Kiera Wilson and Claire Siebert.

The Press on the Field Engraving from Harper's Weekly, April 30, 1864.

On Sunday, August 2, Another World Travel defeated Legends Car Wash in the final game to win the Randolph Grandmasters Softball League "End of Season" Tournament at Heistein Park in Randolph. Another World Travel also captured the Grandmasters regular season Championship with a record of 12 wins and one loss. Pictured is Tom Zipko slashing a double to the gap during the bottom of the first, when Another World Travel scored 10 runs.

Women from St. Ann's Church, Parsippany enjoyed a morning of socializing whlle playing different games. The Woman’s Club of Parsippany Troy Hills held its 34th Annual Tee off for Education Golf Classic on July 14 at the Knoll West Country Club. The event is the primary fundraiser for the club’s educational programs and scholarships. Last year, the club awarded nine scholarships to graduating Parsippany area high school seniors and awarded a scholarship in the continuing education program for a woman from the Jersey Battered Women’s Services. The club also participated in several elementary and middle school educational programs. Seventy-eight golfers, including Parsippany Councilman Michael dePierro and Parsippany Mayor James Barberio enjoyed the day. Dean Gannett and Rich Gannon won the putting green contest, each having a hole in one in the contest. There were also 40 non-golfers, many from St. Ann’s Church and from area Women’s Clubs, who supported the fundraiser, playing bridge, dominos and Pokeno. The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills will hold its next General Meeting on Monday, Sept. 28. All area women are invited to attend. For more information call Cathy at 973-984-0758, email the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com or check us out on the web www.parsippanywomansclub.org.

Five students from Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child completed a variety of service projects during a recent seven-day trip to Appalachia. Pictured, from left, are Nathalie Beauchamps, of Randolph; Allison Palmeri, of Franklin Lakes, Carmen Ruiz, of Wharton, Sarah-Jane Matthews and Tara Halter, of Springfield.

Mustafa Salim, Morris Hills High School for Math, Science and Engineering; Abigail Sequeira, Randolph High School; Brendan Fu, Hanover Park High School; Shannon Flynn, Jefferson Township High School; Jack Collins, Morristown-Beard School.

Another World Travel were the winners of the Randolph Grandmasters Softball League "End of Season" Tournament. Pictured (from left to right, front row) are: Bunny Longo, Tom Gihorski, JR Carmona, Willy Carmona, Doug Snyder, Rich Hockenbary and Charlie Chuplis. Back row (left to right) are: Coach Bob Laurie, Carlo Guarante, Joe Mercurio, Paul Rusak, Scott Arentowicz and Tom Zipko. Missing: Mike Haberkorn, Ed Pico, Steve Ornstein and Pete Torres.

The Morris County Freeholders awarded a $192,500 grant to the Lake Hopatcong Foundation in August for their efforts to purchase and maintain the historic integrity of the century-old Lake Hopatcong train station. The board presented a replica check to the Foundation at a special ceremony in Lake Hopatcong on Sunday to call attention to the efforts to preserve this structure, which played an important role in the region’s history. Pictured (left to right) are: Ron Kraus, LHF Volunteer Site Manager, Donna Macalle-Holly, LHF Grant and Program Coordinator, Martin Kane, LHF Board of Trustees, Chairman and Trustee Freeholder Scapicchio, Jessica K. Murphy,LHF President, John Yingling, LHF Trustee and Treasurer, Thomas D. Flinn, LHF Trustee and Béla Szigethy, LHF Trustee. “Efforts like these help preserve the history of our county for future generations … helping them understand the past and, hopefully, using that knowledge to make our county a better place in the future,’’ Freeholder Dave Scapicchio said. “The county freeholders are thrilled to be able to assist you with the purchase of this rail station through a grant from the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund.” This 1911 train station was built as part of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad … and the Lackawanna Cutoff project. It was unique in New Jersey because three forms of transportation were directly accessible from the station. Rail passengers could disembark at this station and either board the Lake Hopatcong Steamboat Company boats for passage through the Morris Canal into Lake Hopatcong or board the Morris County Traction Company trolley directly to Bertrand Island Park. Due to this unique distinction in transportation history, the Lake Hopatcong Station has been determined to be individually eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, and it also is part of the Old Main Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad Historic District. The Lake Hopatcong Station is architecturally similar to its sister station in Mountain Lakes. Both stations used rubble stone and detailing of concrete and glazed terra cotta.

Lowe’s Heroes (from left to right) are: Ronald Gagliociello, Brandon Neuman, Anthony Defrancesco, Sean Temple, Jordan Holman and Colin Depuy.

Pictured (left to right) are: Kiwanis President Mimi Letts, Parsippany-Troy Hills Acting Director Human Services Michele Picone and Kiwanis Foundation President Carol Tiesi.

Leo Scotti, Patrick Harrington and friends at last year’s Columbia Trail Tromp.

Chilton Medical Center recently honored the memory of the late Sonia Neill, a former Pompton Plains resident who donated $2.2 million to Chilton Medical Center Foundation. Pictured are (center) Vicki and Brian Montmore, longtime friends of Sonia Neill, with Chilton Medical Center/Atlantic Health System representatives (from left) Eric Leuthold, Gina Carro, Lydia Nadeau and Dr. Michael Kane.

Autosave-File vom d-lab2/3 der AgfaPhoto GmbH

From left to right, Morris County Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo; Amanda Rush, president of the Stanhope United Methodist Church Board of Trustees; and Ray Change, Morris County Historic Preservation Program Coordinator.

The roof was among the things restored at the Stanhope United Methodist Church in Netcong.

Rock n’ Roll Ball promoter Dan Glenn, VFW Commander James Auriemma and WDHA DJ Lindsay Klein at a Wounded Warrior event.

Till Now performs at last year’s Rock n’ Roll Ball.

Youngsters use their imagination as they exercise during a FLYAROO Fitness class. FLYAROO Fitness is an exercise program which combines yoga and dance with a child’s imagination. Every Sunday in August, from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., parents are encouraged to enjoy a free FLYAROO Fitness class alongside their children. Classes are Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 at Athleta, located at 30 West Park Place in Morristown. Classes are for ages pre-school through fifth grade but all family members are invited to attend by RSVP’ing ethel@flyaroofitness.com.

Youngsters use their imagination as they exercise during a FLYAROO Fitness class. FLYAROO Fitness is an exercise program which combines yoga and dance with a child’s imagination. Every Sunday in August, from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., parents are encouraged to enjoy a free FLYAROO Fitness class alongside their children. Classes are Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 at Athleta, located at 30 West Park Place in Morristown. Classes are for ages pre-school through fifth grade but all family members are invited to attend by RSVP’ing ethel@flyaroofitness.com.

Ethel Baumberg, founder, with a group of youngsters at a FLYAROO Fitness class.

Student Karate Contest at the Madison Area YMCA Shifu Christopher J. Goedecke held a student karate contest for children who are students at the Madison Area YMCA and ranked blue-belt and above. The students demonstrating the most outstanding attitude and class performance were awarded a traditional three-sword samurai set. Sophia Barahona, 8, of Madison, placed second. Manav Yoshi, 9, of Chatham, placed first. Pictured (Back Row, left to right) are: Karate instructors Scott Margo, Shifu Christopher J. Goedecke and Thomas Maloney.

Byram Venturing Crew 276 conducted their First Court of Honor for its members who had completed the requirements for recognition in various programs offered in Venturing. Crew 276 Bronze Awards winners are: Carson Monks, Sports Bronze Award; Chris Rozek, Sports, Religious Life, and Arts & Hobbies Bronze Awards; Katie Rozek, Sports, Religious Life, Outdoor, and Arts & Hobbies Bronze Awards; Stephen Rozek, Sports, Religious Life, Outdoor, and Arts & Hobbies Bronze Awards; Grace Seltzer, Sports, Outdoor, and Arts & Hobbies Bronze Awards and Meghan VanAlstyne, Arts and Hobbies Bronze Award. Crew 276 Venturing Gold Award winners are: Catherine Jollie, Chris Rozek, Katie Rozek, Stephen Rozek, and Grace Seltzer. Crew 276 Venturing Silver Award winners are: Catherine Jollie, Chris Rozek, Katie Rozek, Stephen Rozek, and Grace Seltzer. Crew 276 Gold SERV Award winners are: Chris Rozek, Katie Rozek, Stephen Rozek, Grace Seltzer and Meghan VanAlstyne. Venturing Crew 276 meets monthly in Byram Township at the Lakeland Emergency Squad building. For more information, visit venturecrew276.com.