Sen. Joe Pennacchio lambasted Democrats and the governor’s administration’s handling of State-run veterans homes after a DOJ investigation revealed constitutionally deficient care for residents at memorial homes at Menlo Park and Paramus.
MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio lambasted Democrats and the governor’s administration’s handling of State-run veterans homes after an investigation conducted by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed constitutionally deficient care for residents at memorial homes at Menlo Park and Paramus.
This administration failed our veterans. From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, hundreds of our heroes have died due to inadequate medical care and a lack of effective management and oversight,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “This report is so damning that even Joe Biden’s DOJ can’t spin how badly our Veterans homes were handled. After three years of inaction from Democrats in the Legislature stonewalling calls for a comprehensive investigation, it is now time to hold this administration accountable for the harm done to veterans and nursing home residents.”
The Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey announced today that there is reasonable cause to believe that residents at two State-run Veterans homes were subject to unreasonable risk and harm.
Specifically, the investigation found that veterans as a result of inadequate infection control practices, inadequate medical care, and a lack of management and oversight which subjected residents of these veterans homes to serious and often deadly infections.
Senator Joe Pennacchio sponsored a resolution, SR-32, to form a special legislative committee with subpoena power to conduct a legislative investigation. On six separate occasions, Senator Pennacchio urged lawmakers to approve his legislation and form the select committee only to be rejected by Democrats each time.
Former Senate President Steve Sweeney agreed to form a bipartisan Review and Recovery Committee in 2020 to investigate the administration’s response to the pandemic, but never followed through and the committee was never formed.
“This DOJ report is devastating. Our veterans risked their lives to defend this country but were left defenseless by this administration’s disastrous management of veterans homes during the pandemic,” Pennacchio added. “They should be ashamed of themselves and so should every Democrat who stonewalled legislative attempts to investigate these atrocities. The great veterans of New Jersey deserve so much better.”
HANOVER — The NJ MVC Mobile Unit next visits Morris County Library on Tuesday, September 26. Please scroll down for links to make an appointment. At the time of this posting, there are 130 open REAL ID appointments and 50 open registration renewal appointments, however, they fill up!
Below are all upcoming dates the Mobile Unit will visit the library with appointments available for appointment.
Tuesday, September 26
Thursday, September 28
Thursday, October 19
Monday, November 20
➡️ click here to make a REAL ID appointment:
https://ow.ly/ttmK50PJ5Hc
➡️ click here to make a registration renewal appointment:
https://ow.ly/Wysf50PJ5H9
License plates and handicapped placards can be returned to the Mobile Unit without an appointment.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Nutrition Program seeks volunteers to assist in the kitchen and deliver meals to Morris County Seniors.
The program has nutrition sites throughout Morris County that serves more than 1,200 seniors Monday to Friday.
There are two types of volunteer opportunities: kitchen assistants and drivers to help deliver meals.
Volunteer kitchen assistants assist with setting up in preparation for delivery, serving meals to congregate seniors, and cleaning up. There is no cooking of meals but portioning and preparing of bags for delivery.
Volunteer drivers deliver meals to homebound seniors in the local community. Driver must have a valid driver’s license and the use their own car.
Volunteers must be 18 or older and available weekday mornings. To sign up to volunteer, please call (862) 219-9125 or email MorrisNutrition@co.morris.nj.us.
Morristown Nutrition Site:
Volunteer Kitchen Assistant
Days needed: Tuesday and Thursday Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Volunteer Driver
Days needed: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Dover Nutrition Site: St. John’s Episcopal Church, 11 South Bergen Street
Volunteer Kitchen Assistant
Days: Mondays and Thursdays
For more information and additional locations where volunteers are needed, click here to visit the Morris County website.
Stunning Colonial Hillside Cottage at 255 Boulevard Fetches a Whopping $1,358,000
MOUNTAIN LAKES — This Pristine Colonial Hillside Cottage, located at 255 Boulevard, combines the Arts and crafts charm with today’s modern conveniences. Centrally located in the sought-after community of Mountain Lakes with seasonal lake views. Beautiful original chestnut. Rich details are throughout this updated home, as seen in the living room that offers fireplace ceiling beams and a French door to the screened-in porch.
The oversized kitchen is a chef’s dream!
The formal dining room boasts a coffered ceiling, lattice windows, and chestnut wainscoting. The which used to be front porch has a wall of windows overlooking the lake. The oversized kitchen is a chef’s dream! The master bed with walk-in closets and renovated master bath with steam shower is on the second floor plus two beds, a renovated bath with shower in tub, laundry, and hall closet. Two large bedrooms with a walk-in closet and a den and renovated bath with shower on the third floor. Partly finished basement and has a mudroom. Relax on the private deck.
The front porch has a wall of windows overlooking the lake.
This 5 bedroom, 5.5+ bathroom, 4,906 square foot home located on a 2.45 lot at 6 Bayer Ln,
Boonton Township sold for $1,400,000.
BOONTON — This stunning 5 bedroom, 5.5+ bathroom, 4,906 square foot home located on a 2.45 lot at 6 Bayer Lane, Boonton Township sold for $1,400,000. Nestled in one of Morris County’s most desirable towns, this Estate offers an upscale lifestyle on a quiet cul de sac amid an oasis of peace and privacy. Stunning, custom colonial on nearly 2.5 acres. A striking two-story foyer announces the home’s modern elegance. The entry is flanked by a spacious dining and living room with a fireplace and wet bar. The hub of the home is the family room with a cathedral ceiling and the fireplace opens to the large kitchen with an oversized center island.
The hub of the home is the family room with a cathedral ceiling and the fireplace opens to the large kitchen with an oversized center island.
The library or study showcases fine craftsmanship and millwork. First-floor bedroom suite and two powder rooms on either end of the home. Great space and floorplan for entertaining guests. Upstairs you’ll find an indulgent primary suite and three additional bedrooms. Each with its own en-suite bath and walk-in closet. A large bonus room works as a recreation room, playroom, or office. Several options to work from home! Full, finished, walkout basement- Media room, exercise area, kitchenette, full bath, and sauna. Plenty of storage. Three Car Garage. Large windows throughout provide a beautiful ambiance, tons of natural light, and stunning views from every corner including panoramic views of both the sunrise and sunset. The 1,500-square-foot deck eases the transition from living indoors and out. In-ground pool, sweeping side yard, and fenced-in area! Come experience tranquility, luxury, and privacy right in your own backyard with all the conveniences of NYC mass transit, easy access to major highways, shopping, and dining.
HANOVER — Malapardis Park will host Hanover Township Day on Saturday, September 9, starting at 1:00 p.m.
This year’s event promises a unique blend of nostalgia and anticipation. Attendees will journey back in time as a three-decade-old time capsule, buried on Hanover Township Day in 1993, is unveiled.
Originally placed in the ground on September 11, 1993, the capsule carries relics from that era, waiting to be rediscovered on this Hanover Township Day in 2023. Before the day’s festivities begin, the capsule will be unearthed. Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher will take the stage at 1:00 p.m. to reveal the time capsule’s treasures.
Residents of Hanover Township have the exciting opportunity to contribute suggestions for the next time capsule. They can present their ideas at the Recreation Table during Hanover Township Day or submit them to the Recreation Department throughout September. In early October, the Hanover Township Committee will review and select items for the new capsule.
Executive Director Susan O’Donnell, Board Chair Bob Grant, Dover Public School Superintendent James McLaughlin, County College of Morris President Tony Iacono, County College of Morris Executive Director of DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) Julian Gomez, and Morris County Human Services Director Kasey Errico.
DOVER — On Tuesday, September 5, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) visited the classrooms and met with the leadership of the Head Start Community Program in Morris County, Dover. The visit provided her with an in-depth view of the vital roles that Head Start plays in furnishing educational and economic avenues for New Jersey families and communities.
She emphasized the urgency to shield federal backing for such initiatives, especially as it face potential challenges in Washington. Rep. Sherrill talked about her proactive endeavors to tackle the childcare crisis both in New Jersey and nationwide, focusing on the looming threat of reduced federal funds for childcare centers.
Congresswoman Sherrill remarked, “For nearly 60 years, Head Start has been an instrumental pillar, empowering countless children with better opportunities for personal growth and success. Conversations with leaders in Morris County highlight how Head Start remains integral in laying the groundwork for lifelong success, beyond just early education. However, there are voices in Washington proposing drastic budget cuts to Head Start, an act that would severely impact families in New Jersey and the broader economic landscape.”
She continued, “Additionally, the imminent expiration of pandemic relief funds for child care centers by month’s end is concerning. If not addressed, we could witness over a thousand childcare facilities in New Jersey shutting down. This could skyrocket costs for families and send shockwaves throughout the economy. As I return to Washington next week, I am committed to safeguarding essential initiatives like Head Start and circumventing such impending challenges for our families and the economy.”
Known as a staunch supporter of child care and early education, Rep. Sherrill had previously proposed the “Child Care for Every Community Act.” This act aims to guarantee access to top-tier, cost-effective child care and early learning opportunities, drawing inspiration from the Head Start model.
Susan O’Donnell, Executive Director of the Head Start Community Program in Morris County, expressed her enthusiasm about the Act, “It’s promising to see a proposal like the Child Care for Every Community Act, grounded in the quality standards of Head Start. With Rep. Sherrill’s efforts, we’re hopeful that every family can avail of superior, affordable early learning. Quality childcare not only nurtures children’s potential but also propels local economies, promotes employment, and reinforces family welfare. It’s a holistic benefit.”
Research indicates that Head Start attendees often witness improved test performances, heightened likelihoods of high school completion, and increased adult earnings, added O’Donnell.
MADISON — In desperate need of volunteers, the ambulance corps is seeking residents who could cover a 12-hour shift once a week, or two six-hour shifts, preferably during weekdays.
About 15 residents are needed to volunteer as EMTs and ambulance drivers to restore the squad to acceptable coverage levels, a group of longtime volunteers said in an interview at the squad building. Several EMTs stopped volunteering when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020 and never returned. A number of volunteers left for various reasons in 2022, but unlike in previous eras, the corps has been unable to find new volunteers to replace them.
The volunteer shortage is presenting significant financial problems for the ambulance corps, which in turn affects residents. Reliance on professional, per-diem EMTs is sapping the MVAC’s limited budget and threatens the stability of its longtime funding model.
All new members who want to become EMTs are taught and certified in CPR and are enrolled in an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course taught by professionals in emergency medicine. Tuition is fully paid by the Corps, once you pass the course. Upon successful completion of the course, a member is certified as an EMT by the State of New Jersey.
“Serving the citizens of Madison since 1954, Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps. mission is, “To save human life, relieve the suffering of the injured, promote safety in all its branches, and provide ambulance service for those in need, principally in the Borough of Madison, New Jersey”.
It is easy to join our Corps and we welcome inquiries as to how to join. To volunteer as an EMT member, please e-mail our membership team at join@madisonems.org. To download a membership application, click here. Email us! We would love to hear from you!
You can call the non-emergency line at (973) 377-2229 for additional details.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Mendham Township Police Chief Ross Johnson confirmed that a juvenile delinquency complaint has been filed in connection with the December 1984 death of “Baby Mary” in Mendham Township.
Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll
On Christmas Eve 1984, at approximately 10:35 a.m., two boys reported an abandoned and deceased newborn baby girl in a remote wooded area off of Mt. Pleasant Road in Mendham Township, New Jersey. Law enforcement officers located a baby girl’s body wrapped in a towel, inside a plastic bag. At the time of her discovery, the baby girl’s umbilical cord was still attached. The Medical Examiner determined the infant had been alive at the time of her birth. The death was ruled a homicide.
The baby girl, whose identity was unknown, was baptized by Rev. Michael Drury of St. Joseph Church, the Mendham Township Police Department chaplain. Father Drury named her “Mary.” Baby Mary is interred at St. Joseph’s Church in Mendham Township.
Over the last nearly four decades, investigators have vigorously pursued every lead to identify Baby Mary and learn more about the circumstances leading to her discovery in the woods. Using new technology, law enforcement networking in three states, and old-fashioned police work, investigators were recently able to identify Baby Mary’s biological father and mother.
The biological father passed away prior to being identified by investigators. There is no evidence the biological father was aware of the pregnancy, or Baby Mary’s birth or death.
The biological mother of Baby Mary was a juvenile at the time of her birth in 1984. On April 24, 2023, a juvenile delinquency complaint was filed against the biological mother of Baby Mary. She has been charged with one count of Manslaughter, an offense which would be a second-degree crime if committed by an adult.
Since the woman was a juvenile at the time of Baby Mary’s death and has been charged by way of a juvenile delinquency complaint, her name will not be released.
Prosecutor Carroll acknowledges the work of Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Deputy Chief Jan-Michael Monrad, Lieutenant Michael Gomez, Sergeant Sasha Gould, Sergeant Matthew Magnone, Detective Dakota Keyworth, and Chief Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Schellhorn; along with Morris County Sheriff James Gannon and Morris County Sheriff’s Office Detective Rosie Brown; and Mendham Township Police Chief Ross Johnson, Mendham Township Police Lieutenant Steven Bittman, Sergeant Matthew Ambrosi, and Detective James Arnesen; and Forensic Scientist Christine Schlenker of the New Jersey State Police Office of Forensic Sciences.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “This arrest is the culmination of decades of effort, across multiple generations of law enforcement. It is a tribute to the tenacity and dedication of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, our Major Crimes Unit, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Mendham Township Police Department.
The death and abandonment of this baby girl is a tragic loss and even after nearly 40 years, remains just as heartbreaking. Justice may not take the form the public has imagined all these years, but we believe with this juvenile delinquency complaint, justice is being served for Baby Mary. Nothing can right this terrible wrong. Thanks to the men and women who worked so diligently on this case, we hope the community is given a sense of closure.
We thank our law enforcement partners – Chief Ross Johnson and the Mendham Township Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division CSI and Crime Lab sections, NJSP Office of Forensic Sciences, NJSP Forensic Serology Unit, DNA Laboratory, and the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office, and our interstate colleagues from the Richland County (South Carolina) Sheriff’s Department – Criminal Investigation Division and Deputy Chief Stan Smith, the Fifth Judicial Circuit (South Carolina) Solicitor’s Office, Cape Coral (Florida) Police Department, Fort Meyers (Florida) Police Department, and the FBI, without whom this arrest would not have been possible.”
Sheriff James Gannon
Sheriff James Gannon said, “I want young parents to know that there is help available. In 1984, the Safe Haven Infant Protection Act did not exist but, on August 7, 2000, the Act became law (sponsored locally by the late Senator Anthony Bucco). The legislation allows parents or their representatives to anonymously surrender a newborn baby at any hospital emergency room, police station, fire station, ambulance, first aid, or rescue squad that are staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If the baby appears to be 30 days old or less, and free of any abuse or neglect, the baby will be accepted with no questions asked.”
For the past 39 years, the Mendham Township Police Department has pursued this investigation relentlessly to solve this case. If it were not for the hard work and dedication of our officers, who have worked on this case over the years, this case would still be unsolved.
Mendham Township Police Chief Ross Johnson said, “For the past 39 years, the Mendham Township Police Department has pursued this investigation relentlessly to solve this case. If it were not for the hard work and dedication of our officers, who have worked on this case over the years, this case would still be unsolved. Nine years ago, past Chief Steven Crawford called for a re-examination of Baby Mary’s case for the upcoming 30th anniversary. Our officers, alongside our partners from the county and state, would pursue many leads and investigative avenues, eventually bringing justice for this infant who never had a chance to fight for herself. This has been a great example of law enforcement collaboration, and I want to thank everyone who has been involved. A special thank you to both Prosecutor Carrol and Sheriff Gannon for their unwavering support and dedication to this case. I want to commend all of our current and former Mendham Township Police Officers who investigated or worked this case in one fashion or another, which helped get us here today, as well as Father Michael Drury, who made Baby Mary a part of our community and department over 30 years ago. Every Christmas Eve for the past 35 years members of our department and community have left their own families at noon to remember Baby Mary at a service by her grave, to ensure she is never forgotten. Today we are finally able to bring closure to this case and the community that has supported her.”
nourishNJ new location is at 347 South Salem Street, Victory Gardens
DOVER – In a major expansion step, nourish.NJ, the Morris County-centered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, proudly announces the grand opening of its brand-new 8,000 square feet Community Hub. Designed with state-of-the-art facilities, the new hub will assist thousands who grapple with financial challenges, showcasing the organization’s dedication to uplifting the community.
nourish.NJ is located at 347 South Salem Street
Originating almost 40 years ago, nourish.NJ, formerly recognized as the Community Soup Kitchen, has been a beacon of hope in Morris County. Their relentless efforts to combat hunger, homelessness, and poverty have evolved dynamically over the years. Operating every single day of the year, the Morristown-based organization remains steadfast in its mission, embedding values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in every service it offers. Their unique strategy, emphasizing an inclusive and empowering atmosphere, stands as a testament to their dedication to maximum community aid.
Notably, the past triennium witnessed a significant upsurge in nourish.NJ’s outreach. The consequent enlargement in both their geographical footprint and program spectrum has substantially augmented their community impact. This positive trajectory reached a high point with the inauguration of their second location at 347 South Salem Street in Victory Gardens.
The Community Hub’s highlight includes a cutting-edge commercial kitchen, set to amplify the number of wholesome meals provided. Furthermore, the introduction of office quarters for the Outreach Team will streamline the provision of complimentary, user-friendly case-management services, encompassing housing assistance, health resources, and financial guidance.
