MORRIS COUNTY — The June 10 Primary Election for Morris County Commissioner drew a highly competitive field, with six candidates—three Republicans and three Democrats—vying for three open Board of County Commissioners seats.
Based on the unofficial results, the top three vote-getters, regardless of party affiliation, were:
Thomas Mastrangelo (Republican): 33,068 votes (33.81%)
The close margins between all six candidates reflect a highly energized voter base heading into the November General Election. The following three candidates closely trailed the leaders:
Douglas Cabana (Republican): 31,801 votes (32.51%)
Voter turnout and final certification of results will determine the final ballot, but early indicators show a competitive race ahead as both parties prepare for the fall election.
Unofficial results include early voting and mail-in ballots received before the close of polls. Results from timely postmarked mail-in ballots and provisional ballots are still pending. Results are updated as they become available and are subject to change until all votes are counted. All six candidates will be on the ballot in November on their respective party lines.
The Madison Area YMCA honored two retiring Board members during its Annual Meeting last month. Participating in the celebration are (L-R) YMCA Board Chair Mike Griffin, Board & Leadership Development Committee Chair Karen Shahidi, honorees Anne Hargrave and Martha Anderson, who were honored for completing their terms on the Board; and Board member Mary Schaenen who hosted the Annual Meeting. Mrs. Hargrave had served three full three-year terms, plus three one-year extensions. Mrs. Anderson, had filled three full three-year terms, left the Board, and then returned to serve three more three-year terms, ending this year.
MADISON — The Madison Area YMCA elected new Board members and officers at its Annual Meeting last month. The new Board members are Heidi Muccifori and Julie Snyder; and Board officers Chair Mike Griffin, Vice Chair Susanne von der Linde, Treasurer Tom Hagerstrom, Secretary Jaime Pego, and President & CEO Diane Mann.
As a mission-driven charitable organization and community wellness center, the Madison Area YMCA is dedicated to nurturing the potential of our youth, providing a safe space for teens, improving the community’s health and well-being, and giving back by supporting our neighbors.
MORRIS COUNTY — A 37-year-old woman from Denville Township was arrested Monday afternoon after allegedly shoplifting a bottle of wine and assaulting a police officer during a disturbance in a local business suite lobby, according to Denville Township Police.
At approximately 12:00 p.m. on June 9, officers were dispatched to a business suite near the intersection of East Main Street and Indian Road for reports of an intoxicated female causing a disturbance. Employees stated that the woman was yelling profanities and interfering with business operations.
While en route to the scene, police received an additional report of a shoplifting incident at Partner Liquors, located at 123 East Main Street. A female suspect had allegedly stolen a bottle of wine and fled the store.
Officers identified the suspect in both incidents as Jennifer Lester, 37, of Denville. When approached by police, Lester was found possessing the stolen wine. She became agitated, refused to comply with officers’ commands, and proceeded to punch and spit on one of the officers, authorities said.
Lester was taken into custody and transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation.
She has been charged with aggravated assault on a police officer, aggravated assault involving bodily fluids, disorderly conduct, and shoplifting.
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.
MORRIS COUNTY — One of the most anticipated events of the summer returns as the Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club proudly hosts its annual fireworks display. This dazzling celebration is best enjoyed from the water, offering an unforgettable experience for boaters and spectators alike. The show is scheduled to begin between 9:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
Bridge Marina is again a proud sponsor of this cherished tradition, alongside many other local community organizations, municipalities, and businesses. The Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club plays a critical role in making the event possible, generously offering its facilities, managing logistics, and providing on-water support and contributing financially.
Please note: All updates regarding the event, including possible cancellations due to weather, will be posted exclusively on the Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club’s website: www.lhyc.com. Updates will not be posted on this event listing.
Community members interested in supporting the Fireworks Fund are encouraged to email [email protected] for more information on how to contribute.
NewBridge JobsPlus Class of 2025 Graduate Miranda Morgan celebrating with her family.
MORRIS COUNTY — Abdullah Jan gave up on high school in his senior year. “I was in such a bad place,” he said. Over the next several years, he worked his way up to a district manager at Domino’s pizzeria, ignoring a friend’s repeated urging to try NewBridge JobsPlus.
On June 12, Jan was one of nearly two dozen young adults celebrated for earning their high school diplomas and preparing for their next steps in life. More than 100 relatives and friends gathered at the Morristown Beard School to hear about their journeys, and those of NewBridge JobsPlus alumni who overcame tremendous challenges to find their path.
Program Director Amy Sheppard recited the final lines of Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken” and said the 33 young adults who completed JobsPlus during the 2024-25 academic year followed that path. (Eleven were not at commencement.)
“That takes courage, it takes faith, and that takes perseverance. That experience will make the difference as they continue their journey,” Sheppard said. “I’m so proud of you!”
Jan called his time at NewBridge JobsPlus “the best learning experience I’ve had anywhere.” With support from the staff, Jan completed six months of training to become a clinical certified medical assistant. “NewBridge JobsPlus put me in the mindset to realize I could do anything I set my mind to.” He received a $1,000 scholarship from Provident Bank.
Students Find Purpose, and a Path Forward
Class of 2025 graduate Kylie Capavanni and her sister, Kelsey Gonzalez, a 2019 graduate.
Kylie Capavanni has come a long way since leaving high school in 10th grade. She spent several years caring for a much younger sister before enrolling in JobsPlus at age 19, as her sister, Kelsey Gonzalez, had done six years ago.
Kylie Capavanni with sister, Kelsey Gonzalez.
“It was such a calm environment, and everyone was so welcoming,” said Capavanni, who came out of her shell over her months in the program. She was named Associate of the Year and received one of three $1,500 Parker Endowment Scholarships and will attend the County College of Morris in the fall to prepare for a career in social work. The other two winners of that scholarship, named in honor of retired NewBridge CEO Robert Parker, were Ale Parente and Miranda Morgan.
‘I Feel Like a Whole New Person’
Morgan, 18, completed junior high school last June and immediately enrolled in JobsPlus. She’d dealt with conflicts and struggled with anxiety, and had no intention to return. By August, she had completed the program, earned her diploma and then enrolled at CCM. This summer, she’s starting a two-year associate’s degree in sonography at Eastwick College in Ramsey. “I feel like a whole new person,” she said.
Angel Padilla-Acevedo
Angel Padilla-Acevedo left high school as a junior because “I wanted to start my life.” The staff at JobsPlus helped him apply to the nursing program at CCM and for financial aid. “I feel I’m caught up now, where I’m supposed to be,” the 18-year-old said.
He received the $1,500 James Ryan Memorial Scholarship award. NewBridge Board of Trustees President Debbie King bestowed the honor, which is named for her father, one of the nonprofit’s founders. Padilla-Acevedo also took home the 70001 Excellence Award. (NewBridge JobsPlus began in 1983 as Project 70001.)
Jayden Stevens, who will attend CCM for child and family studies, was awarded the $1,000 Alumni Appreciation Scholarship Award, funded by the father of a 2008 JobsPlus graduate. Santiago Bonilla-Garcia received the Perseverance Award.
Alumni Share the Long View
Graduates heard from two JobsPlus alumni who shared inspiring personal stories.
Class of 2017 graduate Leilani Reyes described landing in juvenile detention her senior year of high school. Watching her younger sister succeed at NewBridge JobsPlus, she followed suit, but not without some further legal run-ins. She got her act together with help from JobsPlus, and then earned an associate’s, bachelor’s, and ultimately a master’s degree in criminal justice. Reyes found her passion as a lead case manager for a work-release program, helping formerly incarcerated people rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.
“Your past does not define your future,” she said. Reyes urged the graduates to embrace second chances, be open to support, and to “find your passion and pursue it relentlessly. It might take time, but everything else will fall into place when you discover what truly ignites your soul.”
Nick Macdermott, a 2013 graduate, described years of struggling with addiction until he found his way to recovery. He is now a drug and alcohol counselor, using his experiences to inspire others. Looking back on JobsPlus, he said, “It opened up the opportunity for opportunity.” He counseled graduates: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and chase down all of your dreams like your life depends on it, because it kind of does.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Eleni Pellazgu, the director of nursing at County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph, has been named a 2025 Health Care Heroes Honoree by NJBIZ in the Education Hero category.
Pellazgu, who holds a doctorate in nursing practice, was recognized for her contributions in health education and preparing the next generation of health care professionals.
The NJBIZ award celebrates individuals and organizations that have significantly improved the quality of New Jersey health care through excellence, innovation, and dedication.
“I am truly honored to receive the NJBIZ Health Care Hero Award,” Pellazgu said. “As a nurse and educator, this recognition means so much. It celebrates the care we provide and the knowledge we pass on to the students.”
Pellazgu leads CCM’s nursing department in the School of Health Professions and Natural Sciences. More than 5,000 students have graduated from the college’s nursing program and work in medical-surgical, critical care, emergency care, obstetrics, pediatrics, psychiatry, and other specialized fields. She also serves as a nurse practitioner for Atlantic Health.
According to College Factual, the college’s Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing ranks in the top 10 percent of associate degree nursing programs nationally. The last two cohorts of graduates achieved 100 percent pass rates on their first attempt at the National Council for Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.
Award recipients across 10 categories will be honored during a ceremony at The Palace at Somerset Park in Somerset on Tuesday, June 24. Tickets are available through Thursday, June 19, by clicking here.
For CCM’s nursing program information, click here or call (973) 328-5351.
MOUNTAIN LAKES – Lakeland Hills Family YMCA announces the recipients of its annual community and service awards, which will be presented during its Annual Dinner Meeting on Wednesday, June 25, at The Mansion at Mountain Lakes. This cherished event honors outstanding individuals and partners whose dedication, talent, and leadership reflect the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community for all.
This year’s Artist Recognition Award will be presented to Jadyn Rowland and Sophia Ecarma, students from the Design Academy at Morris County Vocational School District, for their exceptional creativity and contributions to visual storytelling supporting community projects.
The prestigious William Kogen Award for Community Service will be presented to three high school graduating seniors for their impactful volunteerism and advocacy:
Albert Ott, Kinnelon High School
Emily Smith, Parsippany High School
Hong Jin Cao, Montville Township High School
Recognized for its outstanding collaboration and support, the Morris County Vocational School District will be honored as Community Partner of the Year. In addition, Jennifer Lonsky and Ruben Rosario, educators in the school’s Design Academy, will receive the Outstanding Recognition Award for their sustained partnership and commitment to the arts.
The Richard M. Wilcox Award, the Y’s most prestigious honor, will be awarded to Melissa Muilenburg for her dedicated service to the Y and the local community.
The YMCA’s Volunteer of the Year Award will be presented to Packey Butler, whose consistently dedicated service has inspired countless members and staff.
The Y will also recognize its 2025 Employees of the Year, an honor voted on by their peers:
Full-Time Employee of the Year: Sarah Gulbin
Part-Time Employees of the Year: Matt Elko and Christine Torre
Additionally, the YMCA is proud to honor Mike Turkot, an outstanding swim coach who was recently named Coach of the Year for 9–12-year-olds by NJ Swimming for his exemplary leadership and positive impact on young athletes.
“The individuals and organizations we honor this year embody the spirit of the YMCA,” said Alex Martinez, CEO of Lakeland Hills Family YMCA. “Their dedication reflects our core values—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—and strengthens the foundation of community well-being.”
Driven by its founding mission, the Y has been a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities for more than 175 years. By connecting people to their potential, purpose, and each other, the Y empowers everyone to thrive—no matter who they are or where they’re from.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Montville Police Andrew Caggiano confirmed the arrest of Matthew Mannarano, 34, of Montville, for alleged distribution of Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM).
The defendant has been charged with one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Distribution of CSAM), a second-degree crime in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4B(5)(a)(i) and one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of CSAM), a third-degree crime in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4B(5)(b)(iii).
The investigation began with a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) referencing media files, allegedly depicting the sexual exploitation or abuse of minors distributed through Kik, a chat application. It is alleged that the defendant possessed and distributed the items.
Mannarano was arrested on the above charges on June 11. Following his arrest, he was released under Criminal Justice Reform, on PML Level II, with pretrial release conditions that include no unsupervised contact with children.
Prosecutor Carroll would like to acknowledge the Montville Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force for their efforts in this investigation.
Chief Caggiano praises the thorough investigation conducted by all detectives involved in this case.
Suppose anyone has any information related to this investigation. In that case, they are encouraged to call the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force of the Sex Crimes / Child Endangerment Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200.
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.
Dover Republican County Committee Idali Ramos, Jim Mullin, Guillermo Roman, Keith Titus, Maria Rosario with Jack Cittarelli
DOVER — The morning after securing the GOP nomination, Jack Ciattarelli swiftly hit the trail—starting in the heart of Morris County, at bustling Colombian bakery, Rico Pan Bakery, in Dover. This visit wasn’t random: Dover is a solidly Democratic town where roughly 75% of residents are Latino, making it a symbolic and strategic choice to reach out to a community that could swing the November election.
Jack Ciattarelli visits Rico Pan Bakery in Dover the morning after winning the Republican nomination for Governor, greeting residents and supporters during his first post-primary stop.
Accompanied by local Republican leaders and campaign aides, Ciattarelli greeted early patrons warmly, sharing coffee and pastries while outlining his message: “We’re here on day one, focused on kitchen‑table issues—property taxes, public safety, and opportunity for all families.” The intimate setting allowed him to emphasize that his campaign is not just for Republicans but also for independents and moderate Democrats.
His visit had more profound political significance: it showcased an intentional outreach to Hispanic voters who, in the 2024 presidential election, showed increasing support for Trump-backed candidates in North Jersey. Ciattarelli’s stop in Dover aligns with broader GOP efforts to flip traditionally Democratic-leaning constituencies.
Mine Hill Mayor Sam Morris, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Dover Mayor James Dodd, GOP nominee Jack Ciattarelli, and Senator Anthony Bucco gather at Rico Pan Bakery in Dover, where a full house of residents and media welcomed Ciattarelli in the morning.Jack Ciattarelli shares a moment with Dover Mayor James Dodd, James Dodd, Jr., and Angela Smith during a post-primary visit to Rico Pan Bakery, where community members and media filled the room.Assemblywoman Aura Dunn joins Jack Ciattarelli at Rico Pan Bakery in Dover, where a packed room of TV cameras and residents welcomed the GOP nominee the morning after his primary victory.Jack Ciattarelli visits Rico Pan Bakery in Dover the morning after winning the Republican nomination for Governor. The room was packed with TV cameras and residents eager to hear from the newly declared GOP candidate.
HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Senior residents can once again beat the summer heat with a refreshing dip, as the Township’s Recreation Department and the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign proudly announce the return—and expansion—of Thursday night swim nights at Bee Meadow Pool.
Beginning Thursday, July 3, 2025, residents aged 60 and older will enjoy free pool access every Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. to closing. Proof of Hanover Township residency is required upon entry.
“Last year’s pilot program was a great success,” said Mayor Thomas ‘Ace’ Gallagher. “Our residents loved it! Working with the Recreation Department and the Bee Meadow Pool staff, we expanded the program to include July, not just August like last year.”
The popular Water Aerobics program, led by instructor Denis McGovern, is also returning this summer. Classes will be held every Tuesday morning from July 8 through August 26, offering two 45-minute sessions at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. at Bee Meadow Pool.
Open to Bee Meadow Pool members and Hanover Township residents aged 18 and older, the aerobics classes are designed for all skill levels. No advanced swimming ability is required, as sessions are held in the middle section of the main pool where participants can stand comfortably.
The program fee is $70.00 for Senior Citizen Club members and $75.00 for all other pool members and residents.
Contact Hanover Township Recreation at (973) 428-2463 to register or learn more.
