MORRIS PLAINS — There was one third-tier prize-winning ticket sold for the Tuesday, June 20, drawing that matched four of the five white balls and the Gold Mega Ball drawn, winning the $10,000 prize. That ticket was purchased with the Megaplier option, multiplying the prize by $40,000.
That ticket was purchased at Gene’s, 163 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains.
The winning numbers for the Tuesday, June 20, drawing were: 06, 37, 39, 45, and 46. The Gold Mega Ball was 21, and the Megaplier Multiplier was 04.
In addition to the third-tier prizes won, 21 players matched four of the five white balls drawn, making each ticket worth $500. One of those tickets was purchased with the Megaplier option, multiplying the prize to $2,000. Moreover, 29,813 other New Jersey players took home $152,174 in prizes ranging from $2 to $800.
The jackpot rolls to $320 million for the next drawing on Friday, June 23, at 11:00 p.m. All New Jersey Lottery Mega Millions tickets must be purchased before 10:45 pm to participate in the drawing. Mega Millions tickets cost just two dollars; by adding the Megaplier option for an extra dollar per play, players can increase their non-jackpot winnings up to five times. Mega Millions tickets are sold in 46 participating jurisdictions. Drawings are held on Tuesdays and Fridays.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled unanimously in a landmark decision that Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC, the owner of many of New Jersey’s largest newspapers as well as the USA Today, is not entitled to attorney’s fees in a lawsuit they filed to obtain Internal Affairs records from Neptune Township for a police officer who was convicted of violently murdering his ex-wife.
Even though Gannett was entitled to the records under what is known to lawyers and public records requestors as the “common law right of access,” the Appellate Division had previously held in the same case that they were personnel records that are not subject to disclosure under the Open Public Records Act (“OPRA”).
The OPRA statute defines government records and informs municipal clerks and other custodians what records must be disclosed and what records, like personnel files, are exempt. OPRA also provides that a requestor who prevails in any proceeding is entitled to statutory attorney fees.
In contrast, the common law right of public access is undefined and requires the custodian of records to consider a balancing test with many complex factors, which is a difficult assignment for a judge, much less a non-attorney like most municipal clerks and other government records custodians.
Counsel for Neptune Township, Jonathan F. Cohen, of Plosia Cohen LLC in Chester, explained that “unlike the Open Public Records Act, the common law right of public access is subject to the American Rule, which means that each side generally bears the cost of their attorney.” The issue of whether fees are available in these types of cases, in which records are available under the common law but not OPRA, has been in controversy since 2008 when the Supreme Court issued its decision in Mason v. City of Hoboken, which established how attorney’s fees were to be determined in OPRA cases and left an open issue as to whether common law fees might be similarly available.
Cohen said, “Today the Supreme Court closed the door on the availability of common law fees, thereby saving New Jersey taxpayers untold funds which would otherwise go to attorneys who have made a cottage industry suing municipalities and other public entities for records.” Cohen, who has represented Parsippany and many other Morris County municipalities over the past several years, celebrated his second win for a municipal client at the Supreme Court. Cohen stated that he and his client were “pleased that the New Jersey Supreme Court once again got it right and struck the proper balance between the public interest in obtaining documents and the government interest in protecting taxpayer funds from opportunistic attorneys.” As noted by Cohen, Gannett could fund this litigation and hired one of New Jersey’s most prestigious law firms for the case. There is no reason New Jersey taxpayers should be left holding the bag if a court disagrees with a municipal clerk or records custodian on something as complicated as the common law right of the access balancing test.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris Habitat for Humanity, a major builder and leading advocate for affordable housing, has appointed three new board members.
They are Donna Brightman of the Woodbridge and Highland Park Housing Authorities, Tara French of Northfield Bank, and Donna Hughes of Hughes Solutions.
“I’m very pleased to welcome our new board members,” said Blair Schleicher Wilson, CEO of Morris Habitat for Humanity.
“Their strategic vision and deep experience in affordable housing, finance, law, human resources, diversity, equity and inclusion, and more will be instrumental in helping Morris Habitat achieve our mission of safe, decent, and affordable housing for everyone.”
Donna Brightman, Executive Director, Secretary, and Contracting Officer for the Highland Park and Woodbridge Housing Authorities, has over 45 years of experience in the affordable housing and nonprofit sectors. Brightman is an effective manager, problem solver, and communicator with proven abilities in office management, grant writing, interpreting state and federal regulations, creative program design and implementation, budgeting research, and policy analysis. Brightman is a former board member of Paterson Habitat for Humanity.
Tara French
Tara French, Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer for Northfield Bank, is an Executive Leadership Group member responsible for enterprise-wide risk management of the $5.5 billion community bank.
French is a focused leader with an excellent understanding of strategic planning and execution, risk mitigation, and identification of emerging risks, according to Morris Habitat.
She has long been an advocate for affordable housing and community development. Before joining Northfield Bank, French served in leadership roles as a financial institution regulator at the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.
Donna Hughes of Hughes Solutions is a credentialed executive coach, former human resources executive, and accomplished attorney with over 25 years of experience in the healthcare, life sciences, and retail industries.
Throughout her career in Fortune 500 and other organizations, she gained the respect of executive leaders and corporate boards for her ability to drive positive cultural change through instilling purpose, values, and inclusive leadership. Her prior roles include Chief People Officer for EmblemHealth; SVP, Human Resources for Impax Laboratories; Vice President, Labor & Employment at Allergan; and Director and Assistant General Counsel for Circuit City Stores.
Morris Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization committed to building homes, communities, and hope.
The organization serves Morris, Middlesex, and portions of Somerset and Union counties. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Morris Habitat builds affordable new homes and provides home repair services to income-eligible families.
BOONTON — James Lopresti has been named to Western New England University’s Dean’s List for the Spring 2023.
Lopresti, majoring in Law & Society, is one of over 570 students who achieved this mark of academic excellence. Students are named to the Dean’s List for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.30 or higher.
Western New England University (WNE) is a private, nationally ranked, comprehensive institution that prepares work-ready and world-ready graduates. Founded in 1919 in Springfield, Massachusetts, as a division of Northeastern College, WNE’s 215-acre suburban campus serves more than 3,700 students, including over 2,500 full-time undergraduates.
More than 47,000 alumni have earned degrees through its 90+ undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs at Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, Engineering, Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and the School of Law. Students come from 39 U.S. states and territories and 23 countries. Of 45,104 living alumni, 30% remain within the region, residing in the four Western Massachusetts counties and northern Connecticut.
Governor Murphy and Attorney General Platkin have announced a significant investment of $10 million in automated license plate recognition
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Murphy and Attorney General Platkin have announced a significant investment of $10 million in automated license plate recognition (ALPR) technology. The funding, sourced from the federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) State Fiscal Recovery Fund, aims to tackle the rise in auto thefts and associated violent crime across New Jersey.
The allocated funds will be utilized to acquire and expand high-speed, automated camera systems capable of capturing and storing computer-readable images of license plates. These systems will be integrated into a centralized database accessible to law enforcement agencies, providing them with a valuable tool to combat the escalating rates of motor vehicle thefts.
ALPR technology will be deployed at fixed locations throughout the state and mounted on police vehicles. This strategic placement will enhance law enforcement’s ability to address the increased incidents of motor vehicle thefts, which have been observed in both suburban and urban areas of New Jersey.
Acting Attorney General Platkin emphasized the life-saving potential of deploying automated license plate readers, as stolen vehicles are often used in violent shootings. The implementation of this technology is expected to have a significant impact on reducing crime and enhancing public safety.
A portion of the funding will be allocated to the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) to install cameras along major roadways and highways across the state. The intelligence gathered from these cameras will be shared in real-time with relevant law enforcement partners through the Regional Operations Intelligence Center and Real-Time Crime Centers operated by the NJSP, supporting ongoing investigations.
The remaining funds will be made available to county and local law enforcement agencies, with the condition that they comply with ARP rules and agree to share captured license plate information with the NJSP.
New Jersey has experienced a concerning surge in motor vehicle thefts since the onset of the pandemic, reaching a record high of 14,320 stolen vehicles in 2021. The first quarter of 2022 is on track to exhibit a 53% increase in motor vehicle thefts compared to 2020.
The alarming trend of stolen vehicles being utilized in more violent crimes, particularly shootings, necessitates swift action. The $10 million investment in ALPR technology is crucial to making communities safer, preventing criminal activities such as human trafficking and gunrunning, and enabling law enforcement officers to effectively address the rising tide of motor vehicle thefts throughout the state.
The initiative has received support from Senator Vin Gopal, who recognizes it as an essential component in the collective effort to combat the rise in car thefts, enhance community safety, and mitigate criminal activities. Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police, expressed confidence in the investment, highlighting its potential to combat the growing number of motor vehicle thefts and associated violent crimes.
By leveraging license plate recognition technology, New Jersey is taking proactive measures to protect its residents, curb auto thefts, and create a safer environment for all.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — Congratulations to Officer Kevin Stewart (#178) on being sworn in as the newest officer at the Mountain Lakes Police Department. It’s impressive that he has graduated from the Morris County Police Academy after completing 22 weeks of instruction in various essential disciplines such as criminal law, police vehicle operations, use of force, firearms handling, and proficiency, as well as community policing and more.
Officer Stewart’s next step in his law enforcement career involves a twelve-week field training program, during which he will work alongside experienced officers and gain valuable on-the-job training.
It’s great to know that Kevin Stewart is also a Mountain Lakes High School graduate, as he will have a special connection to the community he will serve.
Mountain Lakes Police Department Welcomes Officer Kevin Stewart as #178
If you happen to see Officer Stewart around town, we encourage you to extend a warm welcome back home and wish him success as he embarks on his new career in law enforcement.
Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) is announcing the 27 students from New Jersey's 11th Congressional District appointed to the U.S. Service Academies and Service Academy Preparatory Schools.
PARSIPPANY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) is announcing the 27 students from New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District appointed to the U.S. Service Academies and Service Academy Preparatory Schools. These students will begin their education and service careers this year at the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and their associated Preparatory Schools. Rep. Sherrill hosted an event to recognize the students yesterday in Denville.
“Each and every year, I continue to be so impressed by the caliber of students who apply to my office for nominations to the military service academies. From personal experience, I know how rigorous the course of instruction is at these schools – both academically and physically – and I’m proud to wish them well as they begin their careers as future leaders of our men and women in uniform,” said Rep. Sherrill.
The students attending U.S. Service Academies:
Chirag Chandnani, Mountain Lakes – U.S. Naval Academy
David Farrell, Morris Plains – U.S. Naval Academy
Kelly Keyes, Parsippany – U.S. Military Academy
Elizabeth Habjan, Montclair – U.S. Naval Academy
Delaney Moynihan, Chatham – U.S. Naval Academy
Kyle James, Whippany – U.S. Naval Academy
Jaycen Burke, Whippany – U.S. Military Academy
Matthew Leslie, Rockaway – U.S. Military Academy
Sophia Levitt, Livingston – U.S. Military Academy
William Parrella, Kinnelon – U.S. Military Academy
Remy Ronen, Cedar Grove – U.S. Military Academy
Gina Oswald, Riverdale – U.S. Military Academy
Heainz Manoj, Livingston – U.S. Military Academy
Robert Simone, North Caldwell – U.S. Military Academy
Joey Shi, Livingston – U.S. Military Academy
Thomas Schottland, Sparta – U.S. Military Academy
Bennett Marshall, Chatham – U.S. Military Academy
Sarah Thabit, Morristown – U.S. Military Academy
Clark Wagner, Madison – U.S. Military Academy
Vincent Wong, Millburn – U.S. Military Academy
Audrey Baker, Essex Fells – U.S. Air Force Academy
Christian Greene, Chatham – U.S. Air Force Academy
John Freeman, Montclair – U.S. Air Force Academy
Joseph White, Pompton Plains – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Zak Li, Wayne – U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Rep. Sherrill graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1994 and served as a Sea King helicopter pilot and Russian policy officer in the U.S. Navy for almost 10 years.
Parrotbeach is one of the few full-time Buffett bands. They have been together for approximately 10 years, they met while playing in local club and original bands. The members of Parrotbeach hail from across our great nation, giving their sound a variation of musical influences.
HANOVER — The Parrot Beach concert originally scheduled for Friday night was postponed due to the cool and rainy weather.
The new date and time for the concert is Sunday, June 25th, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Tickets for the concert are still available and can be purchased for $5 per person. You can acquire the tickets through Community Pass, which is accessible for both Hanover Township residents and Bee Meadow Pool Members.
Enjoy the concert, and I hope the weather cooperates this time!
HANOVER — On June 3, Hanover Township Police Officer Brian Morrisroe, accompanied by several officers from Hanover and neighboring towns, successfully apprehended Mr. Sabree Brown, a 19-year-old from Irvington, and Mr. Daeshawn Craddock, a 26-year-old, also from Irvington. Additionally, two juvenile males were also taken into custody. The arrests were made on charges of receiving stolen property.
Officer Morrisroe was on patrol when dispatch advised that a recent stolen car victim was following his stolen car utilizing a Mercedes tracking app. The caller provided his location in the Cedar Knolls area of town.
Several officers converged on the area and were able to locate the vehicle stopped on Boulevard Road. Several police vehicles surrounded the vehicle and exited their patrol vehicles in an attempt to arrest the occupants.
The Mercedes then accelerated, jumped a curb hit a utility pole, and then collided with the vehicle being driven by the individual tracking the stolen vehicle.
The Mercedes experienced heavy damage to the front end and tires of the vehicle, which caused it to become disabled a short distance down the road—the four male occupants then exited the vehicle and ran into the surrounding woods. A brief search resulted in locating Mr. Sabree, Mr. Craddock, and the two juveniles hiding in the woods. While searching for the stolen motor vehicle, a stolen loaded handgun with hollow points bullets was located.
Mr. Craddock was arrested and charged with receiving stolen property, weapons possession (hollow point bullets), unlawful possession of a weapon, employing a juvenile in the commission of a crime, certain persons not to have weapons, possession of a weapon, and contempt.
Mr. Sabree was arrested and charged with receiving stolen property, weapons possession (hollow point bullets), unlawful possession of a weapon, employing a juvenile in the commission of a crime, possession of a weapon, and contempt.
The two juveniles were charged with receiving stolen property, weapons possession (hollow point bullets), unlawful possession of a weapon, resisting arrest, possession of a weapon, and conspiracy. The juvenile driver was also charged with eluding and was issued summonses for failure to stop for an emergency vehicle, driving without a license, failure to observe a stop sign, improper U-Turn, window obstruction, failure to obey signal from officer, failure to give proper signal, abandoned vehicle, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to observe traffic lanes, throwing objects from a vehicle, failure to report an accident, open container, reckless driving and operating a motor vehicle on a sidewalk.
The two adult males were transported to Morris County Correctional Facility. The two juveniles were transported to the Morris County Juvenile Detention Center pending their court dates.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MPAC's "Performing Arts Company" comprises a gifted ensemble of teenagers who proudly represents MPAC at Relay for Life. With their exceptional talent, the group delivered a series of captivating performances, including heartfelt renditions of "A Million Dreams From Now On," "Beautiful City," "Mama, A Rainbow," "We are the World," "I Will Survive," and "On My Way." These talented young performers left the audience mesmerized with their passion, skill, and dedication to the arts.
MONTVILLE — The American Cancer Society Relay For Life movement is the world’s largest peer-to-peer fundraising event dedicated to saving lives from cancer. For over 35 years, communities worldwide have come together to honor and remember loved ones and take action for lifesaving change. Funds raised through Relay For Life support breakthrough research, 24/7 support for cancer patients, access to lifesaving screenings, and much more.
The Montville Area Relay for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society took place on Sunday, June 10, surpassing their initial goal of $57,000 by raising $60,035.67. The event at the Montville Township High School track was a meaningful gathering to commemorate life. Attendees enjoyed various activities such as singing, face painting, vendor booths, performances, a DJ, hair braiding, and more. These activities aimed to bring cancer survivors and fundraisers together, fostering a sense of hope for the future.
Kiwanis Club of Montville was an active participant.Michael JohnsonEvent chair Ellen Brody Decker with Karen DeChristopher
Event chair Ellen Brody Decker emphasized the collective purpose of the participants: to champion the battle against cancer and work towards a world without this disease. Walking the track that day meant joining millions worldwide who share the same goal of saving lives.
Lenore Drucks emerged as the top fundraiser, having raised an impressive sum of over $15,114. During her speech, she expressed deep emotions as she shared the story of her twin brother, whom she recently lost to cancer.
Valerie Goldberg, Karen DeChristopher, and Al GoldbergFriends of Karen DeChristopher
A poignant moment took place during the event as participants took a silent lap to honor those who have lost their lives to cancer and those who continue to fight the disease. The lap followed a soul-stirring rendition of “Amazing Grace” by Laura Justnes.
For those still interested in contributing, the Relay for Life website will remain open until the end of August. Donations can be made by clicking here.
And there he goes…..Incredible Six-Year-Old Astonishes with Powerful Slam DunkKaren DeChristopher posing at the dunk tankThe poignant “Empty Table” serves as a representation of the individuals who are absent from our gathering. This table is thoughtfully set for one, symbolizing the void left by our loved ones who have been diagnosed with cancer. Their names and faces, silently embodied by the flickering candles, stand as a reminder of their presence in our hearts despite their physical absence. Through this solemn tribute, we acknowledge and honor those who have been affected by cancer, keeping their spirit alive within our shared moments.
