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Man Charged in Connection with Fatal Crash in Riverdale

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Prosecutor

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Riverdale Police Chief Charles Quant confirmed that Keith M. Gunther, 42, Wanaque, has been charged with second-degree Vehicular Homicide and third-degree Assault by Auto in connection with a two-vehicle crash that occurred in the Borough of Riverdale on October 15, 2024.

On October 15, 2024, at approximately 10:58 p.m., law enforcement responded to a motor vehicle crash on Route 23 North. The investigation would reveal that a 2021 Ford F-150 had been traveling south in the northbound lanes of travel and struck a 2005 Toyota Camry traveling north.

The front passenger of the Toyota Camry was pronounced deceased at the scene. The passenger was identified as Hamid Shabuddin, 55, of Paterson. The driver of the Toyota Camry sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the crash and was transported to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center for treatment. The driver will not be identified at this time.

The driver of the Ford F-150 was identified as Keith M. Gunther. Gunther exhibited signs of being under the influence at the scene. As a result of the criminal investigation, Gunther was charged with one count of second-degree Vehicular Homicide and one count of third-degree Assault by Auto. He has also been issued a summons for Driving While Intoxicated. Gunther is a sergeant with the East Hanover Police.

Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, Gunther was released from custody on a series of non-monetary bail conditions including Pretrial Monitoring (Level III), surrender of his driver’s license and passport, and to refrain from excessive use of alcohol. The next scheduled court appearance will be a Pre-Indictment Conference on December 9, 2024, before the Hon. Claudia Jones, J.S.C.

Members of the Riverdale Police Department, Pequannock Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit participated in this investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at 973-285-6200 or the Riverdale Police Department at (973) 835-0034.

Editors 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 reasonable doubt.

Nature vs. Industry: Fox Chase Drive Residents Stand Against Denville Development

By
Frank Cahill
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Neighbors Unite to Thank Local Businesses and Officials for Tree Planting Initiative

DENVILLE — In recent years, corporate development in Parsippany has sparked some debate. However, for many years, residents of Fox Chase Drive cherished the scenic beauty of their backyards, which opened onto what they fondly referred to as the “enchanted forest.” This stretch of wooded, undeveloped land in Denville was a haven for wildlife, where animals would wander, linger, and play.

A Glimpse into the Past: The Scenic Beauty of Fox Chase Drive Before Development
Gazing at Concrete: How Development Changed the View for Parsippany Residents

But that came to an abrupt end a few years ago, when residents found themselves on the losing side of an approval granted by Denville for the Weiss-Aug Group to construct their metal stamping factory on the long-time forested site. 

Where Deer Once Roamed, Concrete Now Stands: Parsippany’s Vanished Forest

Parsippany resident Amit Mitra said “Wild turkey, coyotes, deer, Fox cubs, and other animals often played right here,” while pointing down toward the ground. 

This property sits on the border of Denville and Parsippany, with a section of the land sited in Parsippany. “The development not only destroys the beautiful, peaceful ambiance we had, and negatively impacts the values of our homes, but also impacts our safety and security,” added Mitra.

Bringing Back Green: Wall Landscaping Plants October Glory Red Maple Trees for Fox Chase Drive’s Future

During the factory’s construction, residents said they endured months of a diminished quality of life. “After the construction started, our homes were shaking. Wall hangings were knocked off walls, and the rafters on our roofs were rattling. Afraid of our safety, we complained to both Parsippany Mayor James Barberio and Denville Mayor Tom Andes. Mayor Barberio did not respond,” Mitra contended. 

Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella was alerted about the matter during the final phase of the factory’s construction and vowed to provide any assistance possible to the impacted Parsippany residents. 

The Quiet Wilderness: Fox Chase Drive’s Idyllic Backyards Before the Factory

Musella contacted local businesses Cerbo’s Greenhouse and Wall Landscaping and collaborated with them to provide impacted residents with donated trees and planting at discounted pricing, funded by Musella.

Area residents responded joyfully to this week’s tree delivery. Over 20 neighbors gathered to thank Cerbo Greenhouse, Wall Landscaping, and Councilman Musella for coming together to do something nice for the community. 

Parsippany resident Snigdha Mitra’s smile beamed ear-to-ear as he noted that the tree line would restore some semblance of privacy and security in the neighborhood. While it will take many years to regrow the natural buffer that once existed, the saplings will continue to grow and, in 5-10 years, can provide ample natural protection to the manufacturing site.

Mitra publicly thanked Councilman Musella for being “the only councilman and township official to listen to our concerns and come to see the situation in person. This construction and destruction of habitat should never have been permitted. But given where we are, Councilman Musella was proactive in partnering with local businesses to resolve the problem. I wish he had been our mayor two years ago! We need more local representatives like Justin who listen and solve issues for ordinary citizens, rather than being under the thumbs and in the pockets of large developers and big businesses.”

Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella, Tommy Wall, Casey (Kaushik) Parikh

NJHSR Vice-Chairman casts first ever ballot in 2024 election

By
Frank Cahill
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Boonton Township Resident Chris Ilic

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Chris Ilic, 18, Vice Chairman of the New Jersey High School Republicans, took advantage of early voting and cast his first-ever ballot in the 2024 election at his local polling station in Boonton Township. This milestone marks his active participation in the political process and underscores the importance of youth involvement in elections. As a young leader, Ilic’s early vote reflects his commitment to civic engagement and sets an example for high school Republicans across the state. Ilic is a senior at Mountain Lakes High School.

Early voting for the 2024 election is underway, offering residents across Morris County convenient access to local polling stations ahead of Election Day. With early voting sites open from October 28 through November 5, Morris County officials encourage residents to take advantage of these options to avoid the Election Day rush and ensure every vote is counted.

Early voting sites are open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., except on Sundays when hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Voters can visit any early voting site within Morris County, regardless of their designated precinct, making it easier for those balancing busy schedules. Each location is equipped with secure electronic voting machines, allowing voters to select their candidates in real-time.

For Morris County voters, early voting locations include:

  • Boonton Township: 155 Powerville Road, Boonton Township
  • Central Park of Morris County: 2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains
  • Mount Olive Municipal Building: 204 Flanders-Drakestown Road, Budd Lake
  • Denville Municipal Building: 1 Saint Mary’s Place, Denville
  • Madison Municipal Building: 50 Kings Road, Madison
  • Mount Arlington Municipal Building: 18 North Glen Ave, Mount Arlington
  • Hanover Township: 15 North Jefferson Road, Whippany
  • Morristown: 220 South Street, Morristown

County Clerk Ann Grossi emphasized the ease and accessibility of early voting, particularly for voters concerned about wait times and scheduling conflicts on Election Day. “Early voting stations have been set up with the needs of our residents in mind. This is a valuable option for those who want to avoid the crowds and take their time making selections,” Grossi noted.

Residents who prefer mail-in ballots can still submit their votes by mail or at drop boxes located throughout the county, available 24/7 and regularly monitored by county officials.

With high turnout anticipated for this election, officials encourage voters to explore early voting as a way to participate efficiently. From school board candidates to statewide representatives, Morris County voters have many important decisions to make this year, and early voting provides them with the flexibility to do so on their terms.

Lakeland Hills YMCA Hosts Annual Turkey Trot in Mountain Lakes on Thanksgiving Morning

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MOUNTAIN LAKES — Thanksgiving morning in Mountain Lakes will start on a lively note as the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA hosts its annual Turkey Trot 5K run. Set for Thursday, November 28, at 9:00 a.m., this community event invites runners of all ages and abilities to lace up their sneakers and join the flock for a morning filled with fun, fitness, and the spirit of giving back. The race will kick off at Briarcliff Middle School, located at 93 Briarcliff Road in Mountain Lakes.

Participants are encouraged to bring their Thanksgiving cheer, whether they’re seasoned runners aiming for a personal record or families looking for a festive start to their holiday. Many choose to come in themed attire—turkey hats, feathers, and fall colors are common sights as participants race to “catch” the last slice of pumpkin pie! The event is also a fantastic way to work up an appetite before the Thanksgiving feast and to burn off a few calories in advance of the holiday indulgence.

The Turkey Trot has become a beloved tradition in the Mountain Lakes area, drawing people from neighboring towns and bringing together runners, walkers, and supporters in a community celebration. “It’s not just about the race,” says a representative from Lakeland Hills YMCA. “It’s about coming together as a community, supporting healthy habits, and kicking off Thanksgiving with some good old-fashioned fun.”

Alongside the 5K run, the event offers plenty of opportunities to connect with other participants, enjoy pre-race festivities, and take memorable photos. Volunteers and YMCA staff will be on hand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all, while families, friends, and local supporters cheer on participants from the sidelines.

To register, simply click here or visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com to secure a spot. The YMCA encourages early registration, as spots fill up quickly. Don’t forget to bring your turkey spirit, a pair of comfortable running shoes, and an appetite for fun!

Whether you’re running for a personal goal, looking for a fun outing with family and friends, or aiming to jump-start your Thanksgiving with a healthy activity, the Mountain Lakes Turkey Trot promises a memorable, feather-filled event. So, don’t miss out—join the flock, register today, and get ready for a Thanksgiving morning full of joy and community spirit!

Attend “Data Under the Stars” at CCM to Learn About Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

By
Frank Cahill
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The most recent Data Science Night at County College of Morris, November 2023.

RANDOLPH — To help gain an understanding of data science and artificial intelligence, County College of Morris (CCM) is hosting “Data Science Night: Data Under the Stars,” on Thursday, November 14, from 6:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. This free, interactive event is for students ages 15 and up, including adult learners as well as working professionals.

Data science is one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand career fields, offering high-paying job opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, data science jobs are expected to grow by 36% by 2031, with a median salary exceeding $100,000. With industry-leading certification and degree programs, CCM equips its graduates with the skills needed to thrive in this competitive market. Attendees of Data Science Night will learn more about the field and how to get started on this exciting pathway.

Throughout the evening, CCM faculty will be offering hands-on workshops about the building blocks of data science, such as Data Visualization with Tableau, Natural Language Processing and Graphics in Python, Excel Data Analysis and RStudio Statistical Analysis. CCM’s Longo Planetarium will show “Illustris Data Under the Dome,” exploring a universe of data under the starry sky. CCM students and alumni, as well as members from industry and other academic partners, will provide information and facilitate discussions about working towards a fulfilling career in data science.

According to Professor Nancy E. Binowski, Department of Information Technologies at CCM, “Data science and AI are part of our society’s future. We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of what AI can do for us as tools like ChatGPT and DALL-E become more powerful and gain in popularity. Diverse industries are quickly embracing AI to enhance every facet of their business. Join us to discover how you can be part of this exciting evolution!”

Participants can also discover CCM’s data analytics certificate – a flexible, five-course track, that can be completed in two semesters and applied towards an Associate of Science degree in Data Science. Representatives from NJIT and Rowan will be on hand to review options to transfer upon graduation from CCM to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree. CCM’s Workforce Development team will also be ready to help one explore the college’s non-credit certificate in data analytics and visualization, an impressive credential to help one break into the data science field or boost their current career!

The schedule of events is as follows:

  • 5:30 – 6 p.m., Check-in, Cohen Café, Cohen Hall
  • 5:30 – 9 p.m., Speak with CCM Staff about Credit and Non-Credit Options through the college’s Department of Information Technologies and Center for Workforce Development
  • 5:30 – 9 p.m., Speak with CCM’s Partners about Transferring College Credit
  • 6 – 6:15 p.m., Welcome! What is Data Science?
  • 6:20 – 6:50 p.m., 7:40 – 8:10 p.m. and 8:15 – 8:45 p.m., Choose Concurrent Workshops to Learn about Natural Language Processing in Python, Spreadsheet Tools for Excel, Tableau for Data Visualization, RStudio Statistical Analysis, Graphics in Python, and/or see Data Under the Dome in the Longo Planetarium
  • 6:20 – 6:50 p.m., Job Market/Internship Update from Data Analytics Industry
  • 7 – 7:30 p.m., Networking Opportunities & Refreshments
  • 7:40 – 8:10 p.m., CCM Data Science Students & Alumni Panel Discussion
  • 8:15 – 8:45 p.m., CCM Programs and Student Presentations: Women in Statistics and Data Science Conference; Datathon Experience
  • 8:45 – 9:00 p.m., Q&A, Dessert, Giveaways

No prior experience in data science is needed to participate in this jam-packed evening, but pre-registration is required. To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ccm-data-science-night-2024-tickets-1031073908817.

CCM is located at 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Park in Lot 7 and go directly to the Cohen Café in Cohen Hall in the center of campus.

For questions, contact Nancy E. Binkowski, [email protected], 973-328-5775.

To learn more about how CCM prepares graduates to enter this booming field, visit www.ccm.edu.

Help Fill Donation Box for Veterans in Need at St. Rose of Lima Church

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Holiday Giving: Items for NJ Veteran Homes Needed at East Hanover Collection

EAST HANOVER — If you’re looking to give back this season, —an East Hanover veteran—is collecting items for New Jersey veteran homes in need. Any contributions are greatly appreciated, and a donation box is set up at St. Rose of Lima Church, 312 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover.

Requested items include body wash, hard-soled slippers or sneakers, unmedicated body powder, reading glasses/sunglasses, tissues, small craft or model kits (such as wooden kits), denture adhesive and cleaning tablets, sweatshirts and sweatpants (all sizes), electric razors, wireless headphones, postage stamps, men’s undershirts, snacks, and refreshments.

Thank you to everyone who can help support our veterans this holiday season!

Township of Hanover Committee Meeting – October 10, 2024

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Brian J. Cahill, Michael A. Mihalko, Ronald F. Francioli, John L. Ferramosca, and Thomas "Ace" Gallagher

HANOVER — The Township Committee of the Township of Hanover met on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. for an in-person, open public conference and closed executive legal and personnel meeting in Conference Room “A” at the Township Municipal Building located at 1000 Route 10W in Whippany. Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting. 

  • Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Mayor
  • Michael A. Mihalko, Deputy Mayor
  • Brian J. Cahill, Committeeman
  • John L. Ferramosca, Committeeman
  • Ronald F. Francioli, Committeeman

Click here to download the agenda.

Whippany’s Calais School Leads the Way with Therapy Dog Program for Students with Disabilities

By
Frank Cahill
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0
herapy Dogs at The Calais School Inspire Academic Success and Emotional Growth

HANOVER — For over a decade, The Calais School in Whippany has been using therapy dogs to support students with special needs through a pioneering program known as The Calais Method. This proprietary technique, specifically designed for special education environments, transforms therapy dog interactions from simple meet-and-greets to structured, therapeutic sessions that promote academic and personal growth.

One of only a few schools nationwide with a fully integrated therapy dog program, The Calais School employs a team of certified therapy dog handlers and well-trained dogs to assist in services like speech and occupational therapy, reading support, social skills training, and in-school crisis response. In 2022, the program received the Innovations in Special Education Award from the New Jersey School Boards Association, and in 2024, the Morris County Chamber of Commerce awarded it the Innovative Program of a Nonprofit Organization.

Parents have seen the impact firsthand. “The dogs make my son want to do things he struggled with, like reading,” shared one parent. “Being with the dogs makes it exciting and fun for him.”

Looking ahead, The Calais School aims to expand The Calais Method beyond its walls to other public and private schools, potentially reaching a broader population of students in need. For more information on the school’s programs, visit www.thecalaisschool.org.

Morris County 2024 Annual Veterans Ceremony Set

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — The Board of County Commissioners invites all to attend the 2024 Annual Morris County Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, November 6, to honor 13 local veterans who will receive Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals.

This event will celebrate the service and sacrifices of these veterans, recognizing their dedication to our country and their ongoing contributions to our communities as we approach Veterans Day on November 11. Among those honored are veterans who served as far back as World War II.

The ceremony will take place at 7:00 p.m. in the Public Meeting Room on the fifth floor of the Morris County Administration & Records Building located at 10 Court Street in Morristown. Guests are encouraged to arrive by 6:30 p.m. to secure seating. A livestream of the event will also be available via the Morris County Government Facebook page and on the county’s website.

The following veterans will receive Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals:

  • Dennis W. Becker II – U.S. Air Force, Mount Olive
  • Stephen Dilluvio – U.S. Navy, Morris Plains
  • Charles E. Fegley III – U.S. Navy, Randolph Township
  • Luke K. Lyons (posthumous) – U.S. Marine Corps, Randolph Township
  • Sean P. Mulholland (posthumous) – U.S. Army, Montville
  • Derek J. Oates – U.S. Army, Florham Park
  • Ricardo J. Perez – U.S. Army, Morris Plains
  • Alan J. Sallie – U.S. Navy, Madison Borough
  • Samuel Scotto (posthumous) – U.S. Marine Corps, Randolph Township
  • Gordon Lee Snyder – U.S. Army, Denville
  • Carmen Turrisi – U.S. Army, East Hanover
  • Robert M. Walton – U.S. Navy, Rockaway Township
  • Rhonda L. Washer – U.S. Army, Morristown

For additional information on this ceremony and other Morris County events, please visit the Official Website of Morris County, NJ.

Town of Dover Mayor and Council Meeting Scheduled for October 29

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Town of Dover Mayor and Council meeting

DOVER — The Town of Dover Mayor and Council will meet on Tuesday, October 29, at 7:00 p.m. at 37 North Sussex Street.

Click here to download the agenda.

This meeting is being held in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, also known as the Sunshine Law, N.J.S.A. 10:4-6. Notice of the meeting was sent to the Daily Record and Star-Ledger on January 2, 2024, and published in the Record and Ledger on January 5, 2024. It was sent to the Citizen on February 2, 2024, and published in the Citizen on February 7, 2024. Notice was also posted on the Bulletin Board of the Municipal Building.” These notices were sent within 48 hours before this meeting, and there was sufficient time for the publications to publish them. A copy of said notice is on file with the Municipal Clerk.

Mayor James Dodd
(December 31, 2027)

Claudia P. Toro
Council Member – First Ward
(December 31, 2025)

Sandra Wittner
Council Member – First Ward
(December 31, 2024)

Sergio Rodriguez
Council Member – Second Ward
(December 31, 2025)

Geovani Estacio
Council Member – Second Ward
(December 31, 2024)

Michael Scarneo
Council Member – Third Ward
(December 31, 2025)

Karol Ruiz
Council Member – Third Ward
(December 31, 2024)

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