JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — A Warren County man was charged with robbery and simple assault after police said he assaulted a gas station attendant and took cash from the attendant during a dispute over fuel.
Jefferson Township police responded to the Mobil gas station at 778 Route 15 North in the Lake Hopatcong section of the township for a report of a robbery involving a gas attendant.
Police said the victim told officers he had been assaulted by a customer following a dispute over the amount of gas pumped into the customer’s vehicle.
The suspect was identified as Daniel Chavez, 47, of Washington, police said.
According to police, Chavez allegedly assaulted the attendant, took cash from the attendant’s hand and fled the scene.
Chavez was charged with second-degree robbery and simple assault.
Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Morris County Commissioner Tom Mastrangelo and John Sette.
MORRIS COUNTY — Nick Rafanello, president and chief executive officer of Eastern Janitorial was among six distinguished Morris County residents honored this week at the 29th Annual Morris County Lifetime Achievement Awards Dinnerhosted by the Patriots’ Path Council, Scouting America.
The annual event recognizes individuals who exemplify in their daily life the ideals that Scouting America has expressed in the Scout Oath and Law for more than 116 years. Honorees are selected for their dedication to worthwhile causes and the impact they have made throughout Morris County.
The event was chaired by Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, Sheriff James Gannon and state Senator Anthony Bucco also attended to applaud the individuals whose service and leadership have made lasting contributions to Morris County communities.
Each honoree received a commemorative plaque from Patriots’ Path Council featuring artwork by Joseph Csatari, the longtime official artist of the Boy Scouts of America and a protégé of Norman Rockwell. Csatari succeeded Rockwell as the organization’s official artist, continuing a Scouting artistic tradition that began with Rockwell in 1912 and carrying it forward through his own memorable illustrations and contributions. Csatari passed away last year at the age of 96.
Honorees also received Morris County Certificates of Honor, along with recognitions presented by Sheriff Gannon and Senator Bucco.
The 2026 honorees included:
Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office presents a special recognition to Nick Rafanello during a Boy Scouts of America event. The award honored Rafanello’s dedication to Scouting and his contributions to youth leadership development and community service.
·Nick Rafanello, president and chief executive officer of Eastern Janitorial, also introduced by Morris Plains Mayor Karr.
·Col. Patrick Callahan, former superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. Sadly, Col. Callahan was unable to attend following the passing of his father, Major Francis M. “Mick” Callahan, earlier this week. Chief Ambrose recognized both Col. Callahan and his father during the ceremony and read a letter submitted by former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Lee Vartan.
·Emerson Crooks, Vietnam veteran and vice president of the Mental Health Association’s Board of Directors, introduced by former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Dr. Anthony Iacono, president of the County College of Morris.
·Rich Hoer, president and chief executive officer of Lakeside Construction, introduced by former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Thomas D. Sellaro.
Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Morris County Commissioner Tom Mastrangelo and John Sette
·Thomas J. Mastrangelo, Morris County commissioner, introduced by former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient John Sette.
·Pam O’Donnell, founder of the Catch You Later Foundation, introduced by Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr, a former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.
The event held on June 3 raised more than $80,000 to support local Scouting programs. Funding helps provide camping and adventure excursions for Scouts requiring financial assistance, as well as Eagle Scout Merit Scholarships for local youth pursuing higher education.
MORRIS COUNTY — Debbie Watts-Szymanek is asking for support for her son, Travis, following a devastating bicycle accident that has left him facing a lengthy recovery and mounting medical expenses.
On May 30, Travis was training for an upcoming triathlon when he was involved in a serious accident. An avid athlete dedicated to fitness and competition, Travis was riding approximately 22 miles per hour when he struck a loose patch of gravel and was thrown from his bicycle onto the pavement.
Despite the severity of the crash, Travis was able to call his wife, Kenzie, who is pregnant with their first child. As an athletic trainer, Kenzie immediately rushed to his side, stabilized his injuries, and ensured he received prompt medical care.
Travis suffered extensive injuries, including a compound fracture of both the radius and ulna in his left forearm, fractures to his orbital bone, maxilla, and sinus cavity on the left side of his face, along with multiple facial lacerations requiring nine stitches.
His family is incredibly grateful that he was wearing a helmet, which likely prevented even more catastrophic injuries. However, Travis now faces a long road to recovery that will include rehabilitation, time away from work, and the possibility of additional surgery to address his facial fractures.
As Travis and Kenzie prepare to welcome their first child, the financial burden of medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation costs, and potential future treatments adds another layer of stress during an already challenging time.
Debbie created this fundraiser in hopes of easing some of that burden and allowing her son and daughter-in-law to focus on healing and preparing for their growing family. Any contribution, regardless of size, will make a meaningful difference and will be deeply appreciated.
Those who are unable to donate are asked to keep Travis, Kenzie, and their baby in their thoughts and prayers.
“We are thankful beyond words that this accident was not even more tragic,” Debbie said. “Your support, encouragement, kindness, and prayers mean more than we can express.”
A special thank you goes to Aunt Andrea for helping establish the fundraiser and to everyone who offers support during this difficult time.
MORRIS COUNTY — A group of Morris County high school students has achieved a remarkable academic milestone, walking across a college graduation stage before receiving their high school diplomas.
The Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) is celebrating the first graduating class of its Academy for Business Administration, an innovative early college program developed in partnership with Randolph High School and the County College of Morris (CCM). This spring, the program’s inaugural cohort earned Associate of Science degrees in Business Administration from CCM after completing 60 college credits while simultaneously finishing their high school education.
Launched in 2022, the Academy for Business Administration was designed to provide ambitious students with an accelerated pathway to higher education and career readiness. Beginning in ninth grade, students engage in rigorous college-level business coursework while also preparing for industry-recognized certifications in Microsoft Office and QuickBooks. By their senior year, students attend CCM full-time, immersing themselves in a true college experience before graduating high school.
“This milestone represents an exciting evolution of traditional Career and Technical Education,” said Scott Shaw, Director of Career and Technical Education for MCVSD. “While we remain deeply committed to our essential trade programs, pathways like this show that CTE is for everyone, offering diverse routes to career readiness. Earning an associate degree in high school requires immense dedication, and our students worked incredibly hard.”
Shaw also acknowledged the many partners who contributed to the program’s success, including Randolph High School administrators and staff, CCM deans and department chairs, families, and educators Kris Piirimae and Alyssa Sedlak.
“This achievement reflects what is possible when students are challenged, supported, and given access to innovative opportunities,” said MCVSD Superintendent Dr. Anita Champagne. “We are incredibly proud of this pioneering group and the path they have created for future students.”
The graduates have already secured placements at some of the nation’s most respected colleges and universities, including Rutgers University, Drexel University, The College of New Jersey, Bucknell University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, the University of Miami, Indiana University, Penn State University, and Michigan State University.
The accomplishment marks a significant milestone for the Morris County Vocational School District and demonstrates the growing role of career and technical education in providing students with flexible pathways to academic and professional success.
Additional information about the Academy for Business Administration and the application process is available through the Morris County Vocational School District.
MORRIS COUNTY — Officers from the Morris County Sheriff’s Office proudly participated in the Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics New Jersey, helping carry the “Flame of Hope” across Morris County in support of Special Olympics athletes.
Officers from both the Bureau of Corrections and the Bureau of Law Enforcement took part in the event, receiving the torch from the Denville Township Police Department before continuing the run and passing it on to the Morris Plains Police Department.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run is one of the largest public awareness and fundraising events for Special Olympics New Jersey, bringing together law enforcement agencies from across the state to support athletes with intellectual disabilities. Participants carry the torch through communities, symbolizing courage, inclusion, and the spirit of competition that defines the Special Olympics movement.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office was honored to be part of this annual tradition and remains committed to supporting Special Olympics New Jersey and the inspiring athletes it serves. The event also highlighted the strong partnership among Morris County law enforcement agencies as they worked together to carry the torch on its journey across the state.
SPARTA — Titan Elite is inviting young children to join its Tiny Novice Cheer Program, designed for beginner cheerleaders between the ages of 3 and 6.
The program is geared toward children with little or no cheerleading experience and focuses on helping participants build confidence, make friendships, and have fun while learning the basics of cheerleading in a supportive environment.
Organizers said the program is a great introduction for children who are interested in cheer but are just getting started. No prior experience is needed, making it ideal for first-time participants.
Titan Elite is located at 7 Aaron Way in Sparta. For more information, interested families can contact Titan Elite by email at [email protected] or by phone at (973) 567-9902.
DENVILLE — The Denville Rotary Club will host its 43rd Anniversary Street Festival on Sunday, June 7, 2026, bringing a full day of food, shopping, rides, entertainment, and family-friendly activities to Broadway in Denville.
The festival will run from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., rain or shine. Organizers remind visitors that bicycles, rollerblades, skateboards, and dogs are prohibited in the festival area.
This year’s event will feature great food, shopping, arts and crafts, rides, inflatables, a beer garden, entertainment, and a 50/50 drawing. Pay-one-price wristbands will be available for all-day carnival rides.
Entertainment will include performances by Denville String Band, Johnny Woods Band, Matt Pietrucha, Norton Smull Band, and The Golden Gup as Master of Ceremonies.
The Denville Rotary Club also recognized this year’s sponsors, including Hunan Taste, Saint Clare’s Health, Sheeran Real Estate Group, Mr. Thomas G. Dean and Family, Schumacher Chevrolet, Sphere Construction, Thatcher McGhee’s, Thrift Barns of Morris County, The Anxiety and OCD Therapy Center, Banta Landscaping, Culligan New Jersey, First Bank, Guida Jewelers, Haverly Systems, Otterstedt Insurance and Surety Advisors, Pasta Shop, and Provident Bank.
The annual street festival has become a popular community tradition, offering residents and visitors a chance to enjoy downtown Denville while supporting the service work of the Denville Rotary Club.
MADISON — Members of the Madison Rotary Club continued their commitment to community service by preparing and serving dinner to 55 guests at the Homeless Solutions Main Shelter in Morristown on Tuesday, June 3.
Rotary members Bill Kennard, Ray DeRiggi, Linda Kemper, and Curt Beaudouin volunteered their time to prepare and serve a hearty meal that included burgers, fries, mixed vegetables, and chocolate and vanilla cake.
A special thank-you was extended to Steff Codey for providing the cakes, which helped make the evening even more meaningful for the shelter guests.
The service project reflects Madison Rotary’s ongoing dedication to supporting neighbors in need and living out Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self.” Supporting those facing homelessness and hardship remains an important part of the club’s mission to strengthen the local community through hands-on volunteer service.
Madison Rotary plans to return to the shelter several more times throughout 2026 to prepare and serve meals for shelter guests.
For additional information about Madison Rotary’s community service projects and social events, visit madisonrotarynj.org.
DENVILLE — A Sussex County man was arrested after Denville police said a motor vehicle stop involving two motorcycles led to the discovery of an unlawfully possessed weapon.
According to the Denville Police Department, officers conducted a stop on Route 46 East at approximately 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, after observing moving and equipment violations involving two motorcycles. One of the motorcyclists was identified as Kevin Fornarucci, 40, of Andover.
Police said further investigation revealed that Fornarucci was unlawfully in possession of a weapon. Officers also determined that he was operating the motorcycle without a valid driver’s license and had committed an unsafe lane change violation.
Fornarucci was placed under arrest and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing. He was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, a fourth-degree crime, driving while his driver’s license was suspended, and unsafe lane change.
Following processing, Fornarucci was released pending a mandatory court appearance in Morris County Superior Court.
Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
MORRIS COUNTY – Governor Mikie Sherrill confirmed the appointment of Lisa Montalbano to serve as Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and their Families. Montalbano will lead the Office of the IDDO dedicated to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families navigate New Jersey’s systems of care and access State resources that facilitate independence and dignity.
“I am thrilled to appoint Lisa Montalbano to serve as Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Lisa brings more than two decades of experience connecting individuals with disabilities and their families with opportunities. I am confident that under her leadership, this Office will serve as an invaluable resource in ensuring New Jersey residents can connect with the State’s diverse array of supports and services,” said Governor Sherrill.
“I am honored to be appointed to serve as New Jersey’s Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities,” said Lisa Montalbano. “I look forward to partnering with the Governor to ensure New Jerseyans with intellectual and developmental disabilities can access the tools and resources to thrive.”
Pursuant to P.L. 2017, c. 269, the Ombudsperson’s roles include serving as a source of information for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families; supporting navigation of the process for obtaining services and supports from the Department of Human Services and the Department of Children and Families; educating and acting neutrally and objectively to support dispute resolutions; and identifying patterns of complaints and relevant improvement strategies.
Montalbano served as the Chief Executive Officer of Employment Horizons, a non-profit focused on employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. During this time, she cultivated relationships across the IDD community, including especially with families throughout the state.
