Thursday, March 28, 2024
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Deirdre’s House Receives Generous $1,000 Check from Hanover Rotary

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At its breakfast gathering on Thursday, March 21, the Hanover Rotary Club bestowed a $1,000 check to Deirdre's House. Pictured from left to right are Rotarian Jim Colavito, Madison Rouleau from Deirdre's House, and Bob Weger, President of the Hanover Rotary Club.

HANOVER — At its gathering on Thursday, March 21, the Hanover Rotary presented a $1,000 check to Deirdre’s House. Established in 1994, Deirdre’s House serves as the primary center in Morris County for child victims of abuse and neglect, as well as for children who have witnessed violence.

It is the sole location in the county where a child victim can undergo a comprehensive process, including interviews and digital recordings by law enforcement, medical examinations and treatment by pediatric abuse specialists, trial preparation, and clinical counseling in either English or Spanish—all within a single facility.

Deirdre’s House eliminates the need for a child victim to undergo separate processes at a police station, hospital emergency room, and counseling center, preventing additional trauma to an already vulnerable child.





In Memory of Dover Police Officer: Parsippany Resident Joins Police Unity Tour’s Inaugural Ride

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DOVER — The Police Unity Tour is a deeply meaningful and poignant event that brings together law enforcement officers, survivors, and supporters to honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Originating in 1997, the tour has grown into a significant annual event, drawing participants from across the United States.

This year, Parsippany resident Nicolas Limanov will join the inaugural journey of the Police Unity Tour – Chapter 1, pedaling his bicycle from Fairfield, to Washington DC alongside several colleagues from the Riverdale Police Department. Limanov is riding in memory of Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen III, Badge #115.

At the core of the Police Unity Tour is its mission to honor fallen officers and support their surviving family members and colleagues. Participants embark on a challenging journey, typically a long-distance bicycle ride, to symbolize the endurance and dedication required in their profession. This journey serves as a physical and emotional tribute to those who have fallen, embodying the motto “We Ride for Those Who Died.”

The tour also aims to raise awareness about the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and the challenges they face in ensuring public safety. By highlighting the stories of fallen officers and their families, the tour fosters greater appreciation and support for law enforcement within communities.

Two decades ago, on December 30, 2003, the Town of Dover mourned the tragic loss of Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen III. He met his untimely end in the line of duty, while unwaveringly serving his community. Officer Ohlsen’s enduring legacy of dedication and service continues through his two sons, AJ and Trevor, who now proudly serve in the Parsippany Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. His wife, Bonnie, reflects on his passion, stating, “The police department and the racing team were what Art loved; that was his life, that’s what he did. He gave his life doing what he wanted to do.”

Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen II

Throughout the tour, participants experience camaraderie and solidarity, forging bonds with fellow riders and sharing stories of service and sacrifice. The journey culminates in a solemn arrival at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, where participants pay their respects to fallen heroes and attend memorial ceremonies.

As a lifelong resident of Parsippany, Limanov proudly contributes to community service as a member of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member, and as a Past President of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

Your support is crucial to the cause, and are asking for donations. Every contribution, whether from individuals or businesses, is profoundly valued and sincerely appreciated by them.

Would you kindly consider supporting our cause by donating? Your generosity will make a significant difference and is greatly appreciated.

Click here to donate.





Urgent Call: Morris Plains Police Seek Information on Robbery Incident

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MORRIS PLAINS — The Morris Plains Police Department is reaching out to the public for help in identifying individuals involved in a robbery that occurred on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at 7:14 p.m.

The suspects entered the Sephora store situated within the Kohls Department store at 1711 Route 10 East and concealed merchandise valued at almost $1,700.

Upon exiting the store, they were confronted by store employees. One suspect, wearing a black hat and jacket, brandished a box-cutter before hastily leaving the premises. Both suspects then fled in a black Chevrolet Impala.

Additionally, the suspects were involved in shoplifting incidents at Kohls in Newton and Roxbury, amounting to over $5,500 in losses.

If you have any information, contact The Morris County CrimeStoppers at www.copcall.org,or (973) COPP-CALL.





Dover Council Addresses Privacy Concerns with Police OPRA Records Handling

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Town of Dover Mayor and Council meeting

DOVER — Dover passed Resolution No. 96-2024, at the Township Council meeting held on March 12, designating the Municipal Clerk, Tara Pettoni, as the designated “Custodian of Records of the Police Department of the Town of Dover.”

Previously, a Resolution adopted on February 11, 2020, designated the Chief Law Enforcement as the Custodian of Records due to the existence of certain records within the Police Department that civilian employees are prohibited from reviewing.

The new resolution states “for purposes of efficiency and consolidating Open Public Records Act (OPRA) and/or other public records release functions, and in recognition that the Municipal Clerk carries expertise in determining whether certain records are subject to disclosure under the Open Public Records Act, common law right of access, and/or other mechanisms relating to the release of governmental records, the Mayor and Town Council believe that it is in the best interest to designate the Municipal Clerk as the Custodian of Records of the Police Department.”

During a four-month span, Dover Focus submitted several requests for documents via OPRA and uncovered that hundreds of items had not been properly redacted, thereby risking the privacy of citizens and potentially exposing the Town of Dover to significant legal challenges.

“Municipal Clerk Tara Pettoni read the following statement. “At the center of the February 27 council meeting, there was a controversial resolution proposing the removal of Chief Delaney as the Police Records Custodian and having all over requests be submitted directly to the clerk’s office. It is important to highlight that I was the one who requested this resolution go before the governing body as it is one of my core job duties as the municipal clerk pursuant to the state statute.”

“This resolution was not proposed in retaliation but was done to mitigate any legal ramifications to the town of Dover, as well as myself to confirm what is considered best practice when it comes to OPRA.”

“The Labor Council contacted the GRC and spoke with Executive Director, Frank Caruso. Mr. Caruso suggested that “the town run all opera requests through Miss Pettoni as the custodian or that if there is to be a police custodian the police custodian be obligated as a matter of policy to copy Miss Pettoni on all requests responses and inquiries.”

“Additionally, it was advised that, although certain large jurisdictions for reasons of efficiency, designate, sub-custodians, which are held out to the public to handle over requests as certain records. This practice can result in a risk to the named custodian. Regardless of who is appointed as sub-custodian I am still liable for every OPRA request received and responded to.”

Pettoni reached out to the GRC, and contacted surrounding municipalities such as Mountain Lakes, Rockaway Township, Jefferson Township, Denville Township, and Morris Township to inquire about OPRA procedures, apart from one municipality the clerk’s office at these municipalities either assists or handles related OPRA requests.”

“At the February 27 council meeting, Council Member Karol Ruiz spoke on transparency and stated the fastest way to enter transparency is for the police department to handle OPRA directly. We all want OPRA requests to be responded to in a timely matter, but what is more important is the privacy of our residences and other sensitive information.”

“We must prioritize the privacy of residences before we prioritize how quickly we respond to OPRA requests.”

“In discussions with the Police department, I was made aware the police department released, Mugshots and Social Security numbers, which is a major concern not only to the Town of Dover and myself but also to the privacy of the public,” she continued.

Pettoni met with Chief Delaney, Captain Newton, and other members of the Police Department to discuss current OPRA procedures. She was advised by the chief, himself, that they did not ask for this. The Chief made it clear that the department never wanted to be the Custodian of Records, however, they were appointed in 2020.”

Pettoni  said, “The clerk’s office and the police department agreed that all OPRA requests received by the police department will be forwarded to the Clerk’s office and the Clerk’s office will send out the responses.”

“This way multiple eyes are checking for errors in redactions to mitigate sensitive information from being released.”

It was agreed that the police OPRA email will remain active until April 1.

During the transition period until April 1, an automated reply will be generated advising anyone that (oprarequest@doverpolicenj.org) email will no longer be monitored and OPRA must be sent to the municipal clerk (tpettoni@dover.nj.us).

She said, “We were also no longer going to use the OPRA portal on the town website starting April 1.”

“This will streamline the OPRA process and make it as efficient as possible for requests going to one place. The clerks’ office is being inundated with requests, but a crucial part of the issues we are facing, is requests are coming through a variety of places,” said Pettoni.

“On January 1, I took an oath to be the municipal clerk in this town and that is exactly what I am doing,” she said.

Mayor Dodd said “The purpose of this resolution is because our municipal clerk had an opportunity to speak with our chief, and they both agreed that it’s in the best interest to go through the clerk’s office. It doesn’t matter who sends out the response. The bottom line is that it’s Tara’s license. Tara requested this from the beginning, and I supported her then and I continue to support her effort. I said it and I’ll continue to say I don’t think it’s fair for anyone else to release any information under someone else’s license.

Councilwoman Karol Ruiz asked who answers the OPRA request in the Police Department. The Chief? The Captain? Pettoni answered the women in the Police Department.

Before the resolution was voted on, Councilwoman Ruiz stated “Your (Referring to Ms. Pettoni) thorough research of the process and I look forward to ensuring that the Open Public Records Act is respected in our community in concert with our police department and our clerk’s.”


The resolution was approved with Ruiz casting a negative vote, Wittner abstaining, and all other council members along with the Mayor voting in favor.





Morris County Prosecutor Announces Federal Grant for Additional ALPRs to Combat Auto Theft

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Morris County Prosecutor

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), and President of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association (MCPCA) President Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski announce the allocation of $963,000 in Community Project Funding (CPF) towards the enhancement of the Morris County’s regional Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) program. The funding, along with 14 other CPF requests submitted to the House Appropriations Committee for Fiscal Year 2024, was subsequently passed by the House of Representatives, and the U.S. Senate, and signed into law by the President.

The $963,000 is intended for crime prevention and citizen assistance through the existing regional ALPR program, for the installation of additional fixed and mobile units to help combat auto thefts and home invasions. The equipment will be purchased by the Morris County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), which maintains the network.

Rep. Sherrill said, “I am proud to have led efforts in the House to cut through bureaucratic red tape and secure funding for Community Projects that will have a tangible impact on our district and state by bringing federal resources back to address our most pressing concerns. Public safety, specifically combatting auto thefts, is one of the top issues I hear about from local leaders and constituents. With this Community Project funding, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office will be able to support local law enforcement with additional Automated License Plate Reader mobile and fixed units to address the rise in auto thefts and associated home invasions. I want to thank Prosecutor Carroll and his team for their work on behalf of the residents of Morris County and for submitting this project. And thank you to the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement across the county for their ongoing work to keep our communities safe.”

Prosecutor Carroll said, “On behalf of my Office, I sincerely appreciate the legislative efforts of Representative Sherrill to empower law enforcement to expand the use of this vital technology, especially when it comes to stopping criminal auto theft organizations from targeting our community. We rely on our legislative partners to assist with securing the critical funding needed to acquire additional ALPRs and strengthen our existing system.”

Chief Koroski said, “The Chiefs of Police of Morris County express their immense gratitude to Congresswoman Sherrill for her efforts in securing critical funding and to Prosecutor Carroll for his continued unwavering support. The ALPR technology has been extremely valuable in aiding law enforcement in the prevention, detection, and investigation of crime. The technology allows instantaneous alerts of stolen vehicles and wanted and missing persons, empowering our officers to ensure better safety for our communities. Morris County takes pride in its partnerships with Prosecutor Carroll, Sheriff Gannon, and the Municipal Police Chiefs that allow us to provide unparalleled police services.”





Unprecedented Opportunity: Explore This Incredible Montville Residence Now Available!

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2 Stonehenge Ct, Montville, NJ 07045 - $1,550,000 - 6 bedrooms - 6.1 baths - 4-car garage

MORRIS COUNTY — Stunning custom contemporary set on an enchanting 1.38 acre, private property on a quiet cul-de-sac. Available for the very first time on the market, this magnificent home boasts all high-end finishes and every amenity imaginable. Featuring a fabulous, open floor plan, expansive rooms, soaring ceilings, and exquisite architectural features, this grand gem has it all! Open, travertine marble welcome foyer; elegant living room with double-sided, coral, gas fireplace; warm, inviting family room; majestic, formal dining room with tray ceiling; gourmet Eat-In-Kitchen with center island, granite countertops, Thermador range, and subzero refrigerator; convenient side entry mudroom/laundry room; Luxurious 1st-floor primary suite with customized WIC’s and lavish primary bath with steam shower, dual vanity and jetted tub plus an additional 1st-floor bedroom/den and full bathroom. A beautifully appointed powder room completes the 1st level.

Ascend the striking, open stairwell to the second-floor home to two spacious bedrooms w/WICs and ensuite baths. A lovely open, bridge hallway with views to the LR and foyer leads to two additional ample bedrooms with WIC’s and a jack and jill bath w/ honed granite vanity and steam shower.

The lower level adds additional living space and could make an ideal mother/daughter suite featuring a magnificent recreation room w/ gas fireplace, full kitchen, and built-in bar area. Sliders open to a large patio ideal for outdoor enjoyment. A full bathroom, sauna, and oversized, indoor hot tub create a perfect relaxation spot. A spacious, mirrored gym set just adjacent is ideal for your homework! A secondary laundry area and alarmed storage room complete the lower level.

You’ll marvel at the meticulous maintenance and quality finishes: travertine tile, tiger eye oak doors, oak flooring throughout, incredible windows, skylights and sliding doors, a whole house generator, slate roof, and oversized 4-car garage. With room for everyone plus guests, you can make this showplace your home! Just move right in and enjoy the peaceful tranquility. http://www.2StonehengeCt.com.

Contact MaryCMenard@gmail.com for a private tour!





Special Joint Legislative Resolution Presented to Kiwanis Club President by Assemblyman Barranco

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Joint Legislative Resolution Presented to Kiwanis Club of Dover President Sergio Rodriguez by Assemblyman Barranco

DOVER — Assemblyman Christian Barranco (R) presented Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover President, Sergio Rodriguez with a Joint Legislative Resolution by Senator Bucco, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, and himself.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover was charted through Kiwanis International on August 31 to serve the residents of Dover and surrounding communities. The mission of Kiwanis is mission to improve the quality of life for the children of Morris County and beyond through a variety of health, education, and leadership development initiatives.

The Resolution read:

THE SENATE AND GENERAL ASSEMBLY
STATE HOUSE, TRENTON, N.J.
JOINT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

By Senator BUCCO, Assemblywoman DUNN, and Assemblyman BARRANCO

WHEREAS, The Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey are pleased to salute the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, highly esteemed throughout the Garden State, upon its Installation Dinner, which will take place on March 9, 2024; and,

WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion represents the culmination of an extensive planning process and marks a new chapter for this outstanding organization, which was chartered on August 31, 2023, with a mission to improve the quality of life for the children of Morris County and beyond through a variety of health, education, and leadership development initiatives; and,

WHEREAS, The Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover is especially appreciated for its robust response in the wake of a five-alarm fire that displaced numerous individuals on September 16, 2023, with members rallying to collect food, clothing, school supplies, and other necessities for families devastated by the fire; and,

WHEREAS, The strength and success of the State of New Jersey, the vitality of our communities, and the effectiveness of our American society depend, in great measure, upon hardworking and industrious citizens, exemplified by the members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, who unite voluntarily, act together, and provide their unique talents to further a cause, to perform a necessary service, to support one another and their neighbors, or to relieve others from unavoidable hardship; and,

WHEREAS, It is both fitting and right for the members of this Legislature to pause in their deliberations to acknowledge the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover and to affirm its importance to all who have benefited and will continue to benefit from its superlative programs and services; now, therefore,

Be It Resolved by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:

That this Legislature hereby commends the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, pays tribute to its dedicated members, and extends sincere best wishes for continued growth and vigor in all the years to come; and,

Be It Further Resolved, That a duly authenticated copy of this resolution, signed by the Senate President and the Assembly Speaker and attested by the Senate Secretary and the Assembly Clerk, be transmitted to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover.

For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, click here.





Emilia Endean Inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

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BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Emilia Endean was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Endean was initiated at Nova Southeastern University.

Endean is among approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff, and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 325 campuses in the United States, its territories, and the Philippines. Its mission is “To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others.”

More About Phi Kappa Phi

Since its founding, more than 1.5 million members have been initiated into Phi Kappa Phi. Some of the organization’s notable members include former President Jimmy Carter, NASA astronaut Wendy Lawrence, novelist John Grisham, and YouTube co-founder Chad Hurley. Each year, Phi Kappa Phi awards $1.3 million to outstanding students and members through graduate and dissertation fellowships, undergraduate study abroad grants, funding for post-baccalaureate development, and grants for local, national, and international literacy initiatives. For more information about Phi Kappa Phi, visit www.phikappaphi.org.





Families Enjoy Fun-filled Festivities at 2024 Law Enforcement Night

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Step Into the World of Law Enforcement: Morris County Sheriff's Department Apparatus on Full Display at 2024 Night

MORRIS COUNTY — The Annual Law Enforcement Night, jointly hosted by the 200 Club of Morris County, Morris County Sheriff’s Department, and the New Jersey Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices, proved to be an outstanding success, drawing a crowd that filled the Mennan Arena.

Get Up Close with Law Enforcement Tech: Morris County Sheriff’s Department Exhibits at 2024 Night

With over 100 attendees, the event provided an opportunity to hear from and honor law enforcement representatives from local towns. Attendees had the chance to explore state-of-the-art vehicles, equipment, and an array of captivating merchandise. Both children and parents alike reveled in the festivities.

The NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices has gained recognition in Morris County for its numerous initiatives and the valuable information it provides to combat drug and alcohol abuse. The Coalition advocates for introducing children to new activities and promoting substance-free events to boost their self-esteem. Comprising elected officials, law enforcement personnel, educational leaders, and concerned citizens, the Coalition stays current with the latest trends and challenges affecting our children.

Law Enforcement Night brings together officers and police departments from across the state. It offered youngsters a firsthand look at how law enforcement officers positively impact our community.

The array of equipment on display at this event never fails to impress, even adults. Attendees can explore the Morris County Hope One Van, examine various ambulances and emergency vehicles, try on riot gear, handle handcuffs, and engage with the law enforcement community in a fun and engaging atmosphere.”

At the 2024 Law Enforcement Night, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Hanover Township Committeeman Ronald F. Francioli, and Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher unite for a powerful evening of community solidarity.
Florham Park resident Andrew Lanskey with Morris County Sheriff James Gannon
Bill Spadea, NJ101.5, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, and Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher unite for a powerful evening of community solidarity.

Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon and his team were present, engaging with attendees to discuss safety and heroism. Participating towns included Morristown, Madison, Parsippany, Hanover, Morris Plains, East Hanover, Florham Park, and many others. Displays from organizations such as Hope One, Morris County Prosecutors Office, and JBWS added to the event’s richness and diversity.

Morris Plains Patrolman Nicholas Grawehr, Patrolman Joseph Kohl, Morris Plains Chief of Police Michael M. Koroski, District Director Kelli Doucette, from Mikie Sherrill’s Office, and Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr
East Hanover Director of Fire and OEM John Centianni, Captain, Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, and Morris County Sheriff James Gannon
Hanover Township Police Officers Jake Crane and Sergeant Bryan Pilipie represent their community with pride at Law Enforcement Night 2024.
Morris County Prosecutors Officers Detective Jermaine Marbley and Detective Matthew Marino
Parsippany Police Officers Remo Delassandro and Paul Levi
Farrell Holleran, Jerry Rota, Suzanne Ceravolo, Joanne DeVito DePalma, and Anthony DePalma, members of the 200 Club of Morris County
Madison Police Department: Corporal Aqunio and Corporal DiRocco
Patrolman Matt Cerrato, Patrolman Joseph Berardinelli, and Patrolman Robert Zimmerman of East Hanover Township stand together in service at Law Enforcement Night 2024.
Florham Park resident Andrew Lansksey, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, and Lieutenant Daniel Bundschuh come together to support law enforcement at the 2024 Law Enforcement Night.
Members of the Morris County Prosecutors Office

This event has a history of fostering relationships and often opens up career possibilities for teenagers who may not have previously considered such a path. Typically, people only encounter law enforcement officers and first responders on their worst days, but this event provides a unique opportunity to interact with them on a very positive note.





Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town Hosts Lucrative Easter Bunny Photo Fundraiser

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Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town Hosts Profitable Easter Bunny Picture Fundraiser at i2i Indian Fusion Restaurant on Saturday, March 16

MORRIS COUNTY — On a sunny Saturday morning, March 16, the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town orchestrated a successful Easter Bunny Photo Fundraiser at the i2i Indian Fusion Restaurant.

Families eagerly arrived with their little ones and furry friends, all eager for a chance to capture a special moment with the Easter Bunny through professional photography.

Throughout the day, the generosity of the community shone brightly, as donations poured in to support the Kiwanis Club’s charitable endeavors. From funding local youth programs to aiding families in need, every contribution made a meaningful difference.

President Frank Cahill expressed his heartfelt gratitude, remarking on the incredible sight of countless smiling faces gathered together in support of the Kiwanis cause.

The magic of the day was further enhanced by the generous donation of photography services from Rafael Ortiz Photography. Adding to the charm, members of the Key Club donned the Easter Bunny costume, spreading joy and excitement to all who attended.

For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Tri-Town, click here.





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