Tuesday, April 1, 2025
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Hanover Awarded $8,750 Grant in Statewide Distracted Driving Crackdown

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

HANOVER — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety (HTS) have launched a statewide distracted driving enforcement campaign this April, and Hanover Township is among the local communities receiving targeted funding to help make roads safer. As part of the “Put the Phone Away or Pay” initiative, Hanover has been awarded an $8,750 grant to step up patrols and law enforcement prohibiting handheld devices while driving.

Running from April 1 through April 30, the high-visibility campaign provides more than $1 million in total grants to 158 law enforcement agencies across 19 counties in New Jersey. The initiative aligns with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and is designed to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities caused by inattentive driving.

“Combining public awareness campaigns like this with increased enforcement efforts against distracted driving help ensure drivers keep their attention on the road and off their phones,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Staying focused behind the wheel from the moment you step into your car is crucial in preventing a possible tragedy. Working together, we can help make roadways across New Jersey safer.”

Preliminary 2023 data revealed that 48 percent of drivers involved in crashes in New Jersey were distracted at the time, leading to 160 fatalities and more than 1,400 serious injuries. In addition to local grants, the New Jersey State Police received $211,820 to bolster patrols on major highways, including the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, and key interstates.

“Every second behind the wheel demands a driver’s full attention,” said Michael J. Rizol, Jr., Division of Highway Traffic Safety Director. “During National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, HTS remains unwavering in its dedication to educating drivers about the consequences of distracted driving and is fully committed to equipping our law enforcement partners with the essential resources to swiftly address and remove distracted drivers from our roads.”

In Morris County, Hanover joins Jefferson ($7,000), Mount Olive ($7,000), and Parsippany-Troy Hills ($12,250) in receiving state funds to enhance enforcement operations.

Under New Jersey law, drivers caught using handheld devices may face steep penalties—$200 to $400 for a first offense, with fines rising to $800 and three insurance points for subsequent violations.

Last year alone, distracted driving enforcement across the state resulted in over 9,000 citations for cell phone use or texting while driving and nearly 4,800 citations for careless driving. This campaign aims to boost enforcement and raise public awareness to ultimately save lives.

For more information on traffic safety efforts in New Jersey, visit njsaferoads.com.





Deceased Man Recovered from Passaic River in Montville Identified

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Prosecutor

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Essex County Sheriff Amir D. Jones, and Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano confirmed the deceased man whose body was recovered from the Passaic River on March 23, 2025, has been identified.

The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office have identified the deceased as Timothy Robinson, 21. Robinson was last seen in Cedar Grove on December 17, 2024, and had been subsequently reported missing.

On March 23, 2025, at approximately 4:30 p.m., law enforcement was dispatched to the Passaic River near Route 46 in Montville on a report of a body observed by two fishermen. While searching the area, Montville Police officers located the body of a man. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office CSI responded, and the body was recovered from the water. The body was turned over to the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office.

A forensic odontologist confirmed the identity of the recovered body on March 31, 2025. Members of the MCPO and Essex County Sheriff’s Office notified the deceased’s next-of-kin in person that same day.

The cause and manner of Mr. Robinson’s death remain pending, however the cause of death is not suspected to be criminal. Scans of the body were negative for projectiles or foreign objects.

The investigation was conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes and Missing Persons Units, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, the Montville Police Department, the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, and the New Jersey State Police Missing Person Unit.

Prosecutor Carroll thanked the investigators and the members of the MCMEO for their assistance on this investigation and for bringing closure to Robinson’s loved ones.





Barclays to Lay Off 78 Employees at Whippany Campus

By
Frank Cahill
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The Barclays Whippany Campus, located at 400 Jefferson Park, is set to lay off 78 employees between June 23 and July 7, according to a recent state filing.

HANOVER — According to documents filed with the state, a global financial institution with an office in Whippany is preparing to lay off dozens of employees in the coming months.

Barclays Service Corporation, a subsidiary of the international banking firm, Barclays, announced plans to eliminate 78 positions at its Whippany campus. The job cuts were disclosed in a recent filing with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

According to the notice, the layoffs are scheduled between June 23 and July 7, as the company aims to “align staffing to current and expected business needs.”

Barclays’ Whippany campus, located at 400 Jefferson Park, opened in 2018 and serves as a hub for the Chief Operating Office and other functional teams supporting operations throughout the Americas. The firm acquired the 63-acre site in May 2017, transforming it into a high-tech workplace to encourage collaboration and innovation.

The workforce reduction falls under the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, which requires employers with 100 or more workers to provide advance notice when 50 or more employees are being laid off at a single location. The goal is to give affected employees, their families, and local communities time to prepare.

The WARN filing does not indicate what percentage of the workforce is impacted or whether similar layoffs are planned at other Barclays locations in New Jersey.

Barclays is among several large companies adjusting staffing levels as part of broader restructuring efforts in response to evolving market demands.





Puerto Rican Day Parade Pageant Opens Casting Call for 2025 Miss Puerto Rico Statewide

By
Frank Cahill
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A joyful moment between mother and daughter as families prepare to take part in the upcoming 2025 Miss Puerto Rico Statewide Pageant—celebrating culture, confidence, and community.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Puerto Rican Day Parade Pageant has officially opened registration for its 2025 Miss Puerto Rico Statewide Pageant, inviting contestants from across New Jersey to participate in this vibrant celebration of culture, pride, and community.

The deadline to register is April 5, and the casting call is open for various age categories:

  • Tiny Miss Puerto Rico (Ages 4–7)
  • Little Miss Puerto Rico (Ages 8–12)
  • Miss Teen Puerto Rico (Ages 13–16)
  • Miss Puerto Rico (Ages 17–21)
  • Miss Embajadora (Ages 22 and up)

Winners will be able to represent their communities while embracing Puerto Rican heritage through pageantry, public appearances, and parade participation.

For more information or to register, contact Madeline at (973) 626-6647 or Pacheco at (732) 734-7610, or email nwkpageant.prpd@gmail.com.

Don’t miss your chance to shine and celebrate your Puerto Rican pride!





Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi Announces Ballot Drawing for June 2025 Primary Election

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Esq., has officially announced that the drawing for ballot positions for the upcoming June 10, Primary Election will occur on Thursday, April 3, at 3:00 p.m.

The public event will be held at the Morris County Administration and Records Building, 10 Court Street, Morristown, NJ 07963.

Each year, the ballot drawing ensures a fair and transparent process for determining the placement of candidates’ names on the ballot. The random selection is conducted under the supervision of the County Clerk’s Office in accordance with New Jersey election laws.

“The ballot drawing is an important step in the election process that ensures fairness and integrity in our democratic system,” said Clerk Grossi. “We encourage candidates, campaign representatives, and members of the public to attend and witness this process firsthand.”

All are welcome to attend.

For additional information, contact the Morris County Clerk’s Office at (973) 285-6120 or visit www.morriscountyclerk.org.





Kiwanis Club of Greater Hanover Area Hosts Informational Meeting to Help Kids Thrive

By
Frank Cahill
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Kiwanis Club members in action, distributing jackets to local youth in need to help them stay warm this winter.

HANOVER—The Greater Hanover Area Kiwanis Club invites residents and community leaders to a special Informational Meeting on Tuesday, April 29, at 7:00 p.m. The event will take place at Mangiano Pizza Restaurant, 102 East Hanover Avenue, and promises an evening filled with inspiration, engagement, and the opportunity to make a difference.

Attendees will learn about Kiwanis International’s mission to improve the world—one child and one community at a time. The evening will include a presentation highlighting the many impactful initiatives led by Kiwanis members, all aimed at helping children thrive, prosper, and grow.

From feeding the hungry and mentoring youth to building playgrounds, providing winter jackets, and raising funds for pediatric research, the Kiwanis Club is deeply committed to creating a better future for children in the local community and beyond.

“Whether it’s helping a child in need, supporting families, or building stronger communities, Kiwanis is about heart and action,” said Frank Cahill, Governor-Elect of the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International. “We’re inviting anyone who wants to make a real impact to learn how they can be part of this life-changing work.”

Guests will enjoy a free dinner while discovering the power of service, collaboration, and local leadership. It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with others passionate about helping children and strengthening neighborhoods.

For more information or to inquire about membership, please get in touch with Nicolas Limanov at (917) 499-7299 or visit joinnjkiwanis.org.

We can build a brighter tomorrow—one child at a time. Join the Kiwanis and be the change!





Academy Street School PTA to Host Exciting Tricky Tray Fundraiser

By
Frank Cahill
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DOVER — The Academy Street School PTA invites the community for a fun-filled evening at their Tricky Tray Fundraiser on Friday, April 11. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m., and admission is $10.00.

The event promises an exciting array of prizes from well-known brands, including Coach, Ninja, Urban Air Adventure Park, and Casio, with much more in store for attendees.

This PTA fundraiser, held at Academy Street School, supports school programs, student activities, and classroom enhancements. Community participation plays a vital role in the PTA’s ability to enrich the educational experience of its students.

Attendees can look forward to an evening of raffles, community spirit, and a chance to win fantastic prizes—all while supporting a great cause.





NJDOT Announces I-80 Eastbound Permanent Repairs Update

By
Frank Cahill
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Traffic backs up along detour routes as westbound lanes of I-80 remain closed due to the discovery of a significant void under the left lane. NJDOT crews are working 24/7 to expedite repairs, with eastbound lanes expected to partially reopen in seven weeks and westbound lanes in approximately five weeks, pending progress. Motorists are urged to use alternate routes and check 511NJ.org for real-time updates.

MORRIS COUNTY — The permanent long-term repair of I-80 eastbound is progressing in Wharton, Morris County. In addition, I-80 westbound testing has been completed and revealed a significant void under the left lane, requiring all westbound lanes to remain closed and detoured at Exit 34B until it is repaired.

If everything progresses as planned, the repair of two lanes on I-80 eastbound will be completed and reopened in approximately seven weeks, with the remaining lanes expected to reopen soon after.

The final design of the I-80 westbound repairs is expected to be completed next week, with westbound repairs beginning thereafter. To expedite repairs, two separate crews will work concurrently—one on the eastbound side and one on the westbound side—to expedite repairs. If everything progresses as planned, two lanes on I-80 westbound will be completed and reopened in approximately five weeks, with the remaining lanes expected to reopen soon after.

Crews will continue working 24 hours a day until repairs are completed and the highway is reopened.

“As we continue to work 24/7 to repair I-80, unfortunately, testing revealed another significant void in the left lane of I-80 westbound,” Governor Phil Murphy said. “As we have said since these issues began, safety is our top priority, and we must ensure that the roadway is safe for motorists before we can reopen. I am confident in Commissioner Fran O’Connor and his team’s plan to repair and reopen this critical roadway.”  

Last week, Governor Murphy also announced that NJ TRANSIT is offering a 50% discount on roundtrip travel for those affected by the ongoing emergency repair work on I-80. The 50% discount offer will remain in effect for the repairs and aims to provide an alternative travel option while alleviating congestion in the impacted area. The Governor also declared a State of Emergency in Morris County earlier this month to request emergency relief federal funding for repairs. 

“The good news is the permanent long-term repair on I-80 eastbound is progressing. If no other problems arise, we expect to reopen at least two lanes in the eastbound direction by mid-May,” NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor said. “Unfortunately, discovering another significant void requires I-80 westbound to remain closed to ensure public safety. Two westbound lanes should reopen in early May if repairs continue as planned.

“NJDOT continues to work with the New Jersey State Police and the local communities to make adjustments to improve mobility in the neighboring communities. We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of residents, businesses, and motorists as we work together while repairs are being made. We encourage motorists to consider all alternatives when traveling through the area – taking NJ TRANSIT, working from home if possible, or adjusting your work schedule to avoid rush hour.”

“Today’s update from the NJDOT provided key insights into the I-80 situation. The westbound lanes remain closed, but the NJDOT is advancing a permanent solution on both sides, aiming to complete the westbound side in 5 weeks and 7 weeks on the eastbound side in seven weeks. This is subject to change as the repairs continue,” Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) said. “Additionally, I met with the NJEDA and, along with my colleagues in the 25th Legislative District, are working to develop a grant program for businesses affected by the I-80 shutdown. I stressed that this program should mirror COVID-19 relief, which the NJEDA is responsive to and we expect more details by mid-next week. The NJEDA will be in Wharton on Monday to further assist the business community. 

“I understand the frustration of commuters and businesses, and I truly appreciate everyone’s patience. My office stands ready to assist if anyone has questions or concerns or requires additional help.”

“I appreciate the NJDOT’s continued transparency and the steady progress. While this won’t be a quick fix, it is why I am continuing to push for ways we can support the residents and small businesses bearing the brunt of this disruption,” Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn said. “I also want to thank everyone for their patience as the state works toward a long-term solution we can all have faith in.”

“The public has been given timelines for completion of work,” Assemblyman Christian Barranco said. “My legislative team will continue to monitor the progress made.”  

NJDOT has created an I-80 project web page to inform the public about the progress of repairs. The page also provides information about detours, alternate routes, and other options to minimize traffic congestion in the area.

A new I-80 travel time page has been added to www.511NJ.org and has current travel times on the detour routes and alternate routes.

Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for construction updates and real-time travel information. For NJDOT news, follow us on X (Twitter) @NewJerseyDOT, on the NJDOT Facebook page, or Instagram @NewJersey.DOT.





Morris Area Genealogy Society to Present “More Stories from Ellis Island: Those Who Were Held”

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Ellis Island

HANOVER — What was it like to make the long journey to America—only to be held at Ellis Island and not allowed to enter?

The Morris Area Genealogy Society (MAGS) invites the public to explore the untold stories of immigrants detained upon arrival at Ellis Island in a compelling program titled “More Stories from Ellis Island: Those Who Were Held.” The presentation will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, from 6:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. at the Morris Area County Library at 30 East Hanover Avenue in Whippany.

Genealogist, educator, and longtime Ellis Island volunteer tour guide Fred Voss will lead the discussion, shedding light on what may have happened to those stopped due to mental or physical illness, paperwork issues, or lack of sponsorship.

Attendees can join the free Zoom program from 6:45 to 8:15 p.m. or attend the in-person session with refreshments starting at 6:15 p.m., followed by the program at 6:45 p.m. in the library’s first-floor meeting room.

The event is free and open to the public, but Zoom registration is required. To register, email MAGSGenNJ@gmail.com.

For more information, click here.





Speeders Car Wash Brings High-Energy, High-Tech Experience to Mountain Lakes – Interview with Regional Manager

By
Anikait Sota
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Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany Economic Development Committee, joined members of the committee and local officials to celebrate the grand opening of Speeders Car Wash on Route 46

MOUNTAIN LAKES — A brand-new car wash experience has officially landed in Mountain Lakes—and it’s not your typical rinse and dry. Speeders Car Wash, the latest addition to the growing commercial landscape of Mountain Lakes, is offering more than just a clean vehicle. With music, light shows, cutting-edge detailing stations, and an unbeatable customer-focused vibe, Speeders redefines what it means to wash your car.

“We’re not just a car wash,” said Darius, the local manager of the Mountain Lakes Speeders location. “It’s a carnival. It’s a vibe. It’s a warm, welcoming experience from beginning to end. People don’t just come here for a wash but to feel good.”

When customers enter, they’re immersed in an upbeat atmosphere filled with lights, music, and cheerful staff. But beyond the entertainment factor, Speeders takes service seriously. Every wash tier—ranging from basic clean to advanced “Reflection” packages—comes with premium touches like interior shine treatments, wax protection, and mirror-like finishes.

Speeder’s Free Detailing Station – Members Only: A convenient setup with clean and dirty bins, brushes, and labeled cleaners to keep your car spotless. Located right at the car wash for easy access!

“We go above and beyond,” Darius explained. “Most places hand you a rag and send you on your way. We offer Windex, multipurpose cleaner, interior dressing, fragrance, tire shine—every product you need, right at your fingertips.”

Speeders’ standout feature is its state-of-the-art detailing boards, available to anyone who purchases a wash. Each station has five cleaning products, three specialty brushes, compressed air, tire air pumps, and a dedicated sink for tackling tough, winter-weather grime. The facility also includes a rug beater to handle stubborn mats—just one of many thoughtful touches designed for maximum convenience.

Speeders hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 28 at 10:00 a.m. to celebrate its grand opening. The first 100 guests will receive a special gift bag with premium car care items and exclusive Speeders merchandise.

Even better, from March 28 through April 6, every customer is invited to enjoy one free car wash, no strings attached. It’s the perfect chance for the community to experience Speeders firsthand.

But the innovation doesn’t stop with the wash itself. Speeders is deeply committed to building community ties in Parsippany. The team regularly hits the streets, handing out complimentary washes, and is actively looking to partner with the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and other local organizations.

Speeder’s Swag Bag Surprise: A look inside the ultimate giveaway bundle featuring a tumbler, air fresheners, a free deluxe car wash, and more—all packed in a bold red Speeder’s drawstring bag

“We want to do more than serve the community—we want to be part of it,” said Darius.

Speeders also offers a limited-time membership deal as part of its ongoing promotions: unlimited washes for just $9.99 during the first 30 days, with continued monthly pricing depending on the service level. Packages range from $26 to $46 per month after the trial period—still a great value for those who like to keep their vehicles sparkling clean, rain or shine.

With locations already in Connecticut, New York, Florida, and Nebraska, Speeders is rapidly expanding. Mountain Lakes is one of the first in New Jersey; several more are on the horizon.

“We’re growing fast,” Darius said. “And we’re always looking for great local talent to join our team.”

If you’re in Parsippany/Mountain Lakes and ready to rethink your car wash experience, head to Speeders at 68 US-46, Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046. It’s not just clean—it’s a whole vibe.





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