Prosecutor Robert Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, AP Robert Lombardo, and Chief Robert McNally.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally announce Robert J. Lombardo has rejoined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and was sworn in as an Assistant Prosecutor.
A swearing-in ceremony was held on Monday, December 2, 2024
Assistant Prosecutor Lombardo will be assigned to the Domestic Violence Unit within the Family Division.
AP Lombardo initially served in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office from December 2021 through March 2024, assigned to detention cases, adult prosecutions, appellate litigation, and Megan’s Law. Most recently, he worked at a private legal practice as a litigation associate.
He previously worked as an assistant prosecutor at the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office from 2020 through 2021, a law clerk at the Superior Court of New Jersey 6th Vicinage, a law extern at the New York County District Attorney’s Office, and held internships at the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, Warren County Prosecutor’s Office, and Centre County Court of Common Pleas.
AP Lombardo graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science; and a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Crime, Law, and Justice; and earned his Juris Doctor from Penn State Law.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “I am glad to have AP Lombardo rejoin our legal team.”
MORRIS COUNTY – Assemblyman Brian Bergen is calling for the resignation of attorney Michael R. Burns, a partner at the law firm of Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, after a controversial incident where police removed a resident from an Edison council meeting.
The incident, captured on video, occurred during a November 25 meeting when Joel Bassoff was escorted out after waving an American flag during his public comment. Both Burns, the municipal attorney, and Democrat Council President Nishith Patel demanded Bassoff put away the flag and stop speaking. When he refused, they barred him from returning to his seat. Local news reports indicate another individual, holding a copy of the U.S. Constitution, was also removed.
The council recently enacted an ordinance banning “props,” including the American flag.
“Who else’s constitutional rights has this guy trampled?” asked Bergen. “Burns’ background in European history and law from U.C. Hastings in San Francisco might explain this blatant disregard for American values.”
Bergen criticized Speaker Coughlin on X (formerly Twitter) and linked the incident to broader issues, including Democrats’ failure to provide property tax relief for disabled veterans.
“The Democrats never fail to show their disdain for America and its citizens. Our flag is now considered a ‘prop’? Scary stuff,” Bergen said.
Edison’s newly adopted ordinance reduces public comment time from six to four minutes, prohibits rebuttals, and bans costumes and props. Bergen slammed Burns for failing to prevent what he called a “costly misstep.”
“Burns’ job is to advise against such unconstitutional ordinances. Instead, he enforced them. He should step down immediately,” Bergen added.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
MORRIS COUNTY — Randolph Township Mayor Chris Carey has issued a statement addressing recent reports of drone activity in Morris County over the past two weeks. According to the mayor, there is no known threat to public safety at this time.
The situation is being closely monitored by Randolph Police Chief Will Harzula in coordination with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and various federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The Mayor emphasized that all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of Randolph residents.
Residents with any information about the drone activity are encouraged to contact the Randolph Police Department directly at 973-989-7000. Emergency calls should still be directed to 911. Mayor Carey assured the community that maintaining the safety and security of Randolph Township remains the top priority.
Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available.
Children Make Up 20% of Homeless Population Amid Statewide Housing Crisis
MORRIS COUNTY — Family Promise of Morris County, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to ending the crisis of homelessness and housing insecurity faced by Morris County families and individuals, announced that it has received a $1.25 million grant from Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez through the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund. This is the seventh year that the Day 1 Families Fund has awarded grants to organizations across the country that are leading the way to move the needle on family homelessness to ensure that no child sleeps outside.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this funding and be nationally recognized for our work across outreach, shelter, and housing,” said Joann Bjornson, LSW, CEO of Family Promise of Morris County. “This support empowers us to expand safe and accessible housing for families in need. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to make a greater impact in our community. As a member of Family Promise National, we are all working together to end family homelessness across the county. “
Family homelessness in the U.S. rose dramatically from 2022 to 2023, and families now represent more than 28 percent of the country’s homeless population, according to a 2024 report from the National Alliance to End Homelessness. With its one-time Day 1 Families Fund grant, Family Promise of Morris County will work to reverse this national trend by serving families experiencing homelessness in Morris County.
Specifically, Family Promise of Morris County plans to use its funds over the next five years for a planned expansion of its program to support moving families from the temporary situation of homelessness to permanent housing. With this funding dedicated to program expansion, the team is actively raising additional funds to support their existing efforts in homelessness prevention, unsheltered homelessness, and healthcare.
A group of national advisors who are leading experts on family homelessness and its solutions, including the intersection of homelessness and housing policy, child welfare, racial equity, and service provision, identified the organizations selected for funding.
“Family Promise of Morris County was a lifeline for me. The support and resources I’ve received not only helped me find housing but also gave my daughter a sense of stability, safety and hope. Now, working at the Family Promise’s Our Promise Drop-In Center, I see firsthand the incredible impact this organization has on families, and I’m proud to be part of a team that helps others find their way home too,” said Angel Johnson, program alumna and Outreach Team member.
Since 2018, the Day 1 Families Fund has awarded 248 grants totaling nearly $750 million to organizations serving families in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The grants are uniquely flexible and enable organizations to support families experiencing homelessness—including those who are unsheltered or staying in shelters—to regain safe, stable housing and achieve well-being.
This year, the Fund issued a total of $110.5 million in grants to 40 organizations, and for the first time, nonprofits in Kansas and New Jersey are among the awardees. The other organizations receiving grants in New Jersey are Family Promise of Essex County, Family Promise of the Jersey Shore, and Monarch Housing Associates. The full list of awardees is available at bezosdayonefund.org/day1familiesfund.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover Fulfills Its Mission with Aid to Honduras
DOVER — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover proudly announced that their donation boxes, filled with children’s clothing and backpacks, have successfully arrived in Honduras. Thanks to the dedication of Dover community member Sonia Yanes, these essential items were distributed to children in need on behalf of the Kiwanis Club.
This act of kindness exemplifies the true mission of Kiwanis—serving children and communities around the globe. The club expressed heartfelt gratitude to Sonia for her incredible efforts in bringing this project to life, showcasing the impact of community collaboration and generosity. It’s a reminder of how small actions can create meaningful change.
For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, click here.
Veterans Across New Jersey Receive Heartfelt Thanksgiving Messages
MORRIS COUNTY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and her office collected and distributed thousands of Thanksgiving Thank Yous for veterans across New Jersey, written by residents from the 11th District of New Jersey.
“Thank you to all of the students and community members who participated in this year’s Thanksgiving Thank Yous for Veterans program. Our veterans and their families make immense sacrifices to protect us and it is important that, around Thanksgiving, we take the time to show our appreciation for their service to our nation. I know that the cards were truly enjoyed by veterans across New Jersey,” said Representative Sherrill.
The fourth annual Thanksgiving Thank Yous Program provided an opportunity to say thank you to local veterans and active-duty service members in the community. Notes were distributed to military and VA facilities; veteran service providers; and VFWs and American Legions across New Jersey. Thank Yous collected by Representative Sherrill’s office were distributed to organizations that serve New Jersey’s veterans and service members, including:
•United States Coast Guard Training Center, Cape May •Preakness Healthcare Center •Morris County Veterans Services Office •Picatinny Arsenal •Boonton Fireman’s Home •Community Hope •Paramus Veterans Memorial Home •Menlo Park Veterans Memorial Home •Vineland Veterans Memorial Home
Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, alongside the Morris Hills High School Key Club, served over 175 meals at the Kenvil IHOP. Photo by Leonardo Garcia.
MORRIS COUNTY — This week, Kiwanis Clubs in Northern New Jersey embraced the holiday spirit by serving over 300 hot turkey dinners to senior citizens and individuals in need, spreading warmth and compassion throughout the community.
“We are honored to partner with the Kiwanis Clubs and Key Club students to host this meaningful event,” said Mo Abdehady, owner of IHOP. “Providing a warm meal and a welcoming space for our senior citizens and those in need is truly special, and we’re proud to be part of such a heartfelt community effort.”
The Morristown High School Key Club, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Morristown, volunteered their time and energy to serve turkey dinners to senior citizens and individuals in need. Their dedication and teamwork embodied the spirit of the season, ensuring every guest felt welcomed and cared for during the event.
In Cedar Knolls, the Morristown Kiwanis Club, in partnership with the Morristown High School Key Club, hosted an event at the Cedar Knolls IHOP, serving over 100 meals. Key Club students greeted guests, guided them to tables, took their orders, and served a hearty meal of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans.
Kiwanis Club of Morristown President, Sarah Togawa, extended the spirit of giving by personally delivering hot meals to residents who were unable to attend the Thanksgiving dinner at IHOP. Her thoughtful efforts ensured that everyone, regardless of circumstance, could enjoy a warm meal and feel included in the holiday celebration.
Morristown Mayor Timothy P. Dougherty joined residents at IHOP, sharing in the warmth and camaraderie of a Thanksgiving dinner. His presence highlighted the spirit of community and gratitude, as everyone came together to enjoy a hearty meal and meaningful connections during the holiday season.Colonial Coach generously donated a bus to provide transportation for guests who needed a ride to the dinner, ensuring everyone could participate in the event and enjoy the meal together.
Guests also took home pies—generously sponsored by Barbara Freda of Genesis Health Care and Michelle Gabayoyo, Home Care Director—choosing from Pumpkin, Sweet Potato, Apple, Apple Crumb, or Coconut. The pies, provided by ShopRite Parsippany at a discount, added a sweet finishing touch to the day.
On Tuesday, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, alongside the Morris Hills High School Key Club, served over 175 meals at the Kenvil IHOP. Key Club students once again provided a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring guests enjoyed a delicious meal and attentive service. Sponsored by Frank Cahill of Focus Publications, guests also received pies courtesy of ShopRite Parsippany.
Percy Zegarra of Premier Car Service and the Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs provided transportation that made this event accessible to our seniors, ensuring everyone could participate in the celebration and enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, alongside the Morris Hills High School Key Club, served over 175 meals at the Kenvil IHOP. Photo by Leonardo Garcia.Frank Cahill, NJ District Governor-Elect, demonstrated the true spirit of service by personally attending to a table of Townsquare Senior Singles, ensuring they felt welcome and cared for during the Thanksgiving dinner. His hands-on approach exemplified the Kiwanis’ commitment to fostering community and connection. Photo by Leonardo Garcia.Michelle Espada and Dover Councilman Geovani Estacio ensured that each guest received a pie, generously sponsored by Frank Cahill, Publisher of Dover Focus. Their efforts added a sweet conclusion to the event, leaving attendees with a memorable and heartfelt experience. Photo by Leonardo Garcia.
On Wednesday, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, joined by the Parsippany Hills High School Key Club, Parsippany High School Key Club, and Mountain Lakes High School Key Club, served over 100 meals at the Parsippany IHOP. Students continued their tradition of hospitality, creating a warm and inclusive environment for all attendees. Barbara Freda and Michelle Gabayoyo once again sponsored the pies, allowing guests to leave with a sweet treat for the holiday. In addition, Cahill and Lt. Governor Nicolas Limanov started the afternoon by delivering hot meals to residents in Parsippany, who are disabled and couldn’t make the trip.
Key Club members enthusiastically stepped up to serve food during the event, embodying the core values of leadership and service. They welcomed guests with warm smiles, took orders, and delivered plates filled with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, and more. Their dedication and teamwork ensured a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone in attendance. Photo by Giovanni DiDomenico, ShopMorris County.
“Heartfelt thanks to all the amazing volunteers who came together to serve our seniors today! Your kindness, dedication, and hard work brought smiles and joy to our community. A special shoutout to the Kiwanis Club for your unwavering support and partnership—your passion for service is an inspiration to everyone. Together, we’ve made a lasting impact, creating a day full of love and connection. Let’s continue to spread positivity, one act of kindness at a time,” said Edgar Ortega, General Manager of Parsippany IHOP.
Guests also took home pies—generously sponsored by Barbara Freda of Genesis Health Care and Michelle Gabayoyo, Home Care Director—choosing from Pumpkin, Sweet Potato, Apple, Apple Crumb, or Coconut. Photo by Giovanni DiDomenico, ShopMorris County.
Special thanks to Michele Picone, Director of Health and Human Services for coordinating with the seniors making sure everyone was not alone and had an opportunity for a hot meal.
The Parsippany Transit System ensured senior citizens could join the festivities by providing transportation to IHOP, where they enjoyed a hot dinner served by the dedicated Kiwanis Key Club students. This thoughtful service highlighted the community’s commitment to making the event accessible and enjoyable for all.
Justin Chen, New Jersey Key Club Governor, and Janvi Singh, Lt. Governor of Division 17 NJ Key Club, joined the effort, lending their leadership and support to this meaningful community initiative.
“This has been a project of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany for many years,” said Frank Cahill, NJ District Governor-Elect and member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. “We added the other clubs last year and continued the tradition this year.”
The initiative, coordinated by Cahill, showcased the strength of community, collaboration, and compassion, demonstrating the impact of service during the holiday season.
Dover Councilwoman Claudia Toro and Carlos Caprioli
DOVER — Mayor James P. Dodd, joined by Councilmembers Claudia Toro and Sergio Rodriguez, celebrated a special community moment at the Dover Public Library: the launch of Carlos Caprioli’s new book, Parque Chas.
Renowned for his captivating storytelling and dynamic character development, Carlos delighted attendees by sharing insights into his writing process, and inspirations, and answering audience questions.
The event was a wonderful tribute to a talented Dover author. Congratulations, Carlos, on this incredible accomplishment, and best wishes for continued success on your literary journey!
The launch of Carlos Caprioli’s new book, Parque Chas.
Children Make Up 20% of Homeless Population Amid Statewide Housing Crisis
MORRIS COUNTY — In light of a troubling 24% increase in New Jersey’s homeless population from 2023 to 2024, Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) is urging local, state, and federal leaders to collaborate on addressing the state’s deepening homelessness crisis and severe lack of affordable housing options.
“Homelessness is a human issue that transcends politics,” Bucco stated. “A 24 percent surge in homelessness is unacceptable. We have the resources and capability to create a comprehensive solution, but we must set aside egos and prioritize helping our fellow citizens.”
According to a recent report from NJ.com, over 12,000 individuals in New Jersey are now homeless, with more than one-fifth of them being children.
“I was proud to support the establishment of the Interagency Council on Homelessness, but it’s clear that our current approach is not working,” Bucco added. “This is not a time for finger-pointing—it’s time for action. We need to bring everyone to the table, including individuals experiencing homelessness, and have honest conversations about all possible solutions. Only then can we craft a meaningful response.”
The top contributors to homelessness in New Jersey include being asked to leave a shared residence, loss or reduction of income, and eviction or the risk of eviction.
Morris County has seen one of the sharpest increases in homelessness, with a 45.9% rise from 466 individuals in 2023 to 680 in 2024. This follows a 32.8% increase from 2022 to 2023, when the number rose from 351 to 466.
Senator Bucco, a long-time advocate for tackling homelessness and improving affordability, has sponsored several bills aimed at alleviating the crisis:
S825: Waives identification card fees for individuals with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness.
S889: Establishes a grant program for homeless veterans shelters.
S2573: Directs the Department of Community Affairs to end veteran homelessness within three years.
SCR84: Calls on the U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to prioritize transitional housing for homeless individuals and families, including survivors of domestic violence.
“Now is the time for bold action,” Bucco concluded. “New Jerseyans deserve solutions that bring dignity, stability, and opportunity to everyone.”
Morris County Commissioner Deborah Smith, Denise Bell and Commissioner John Krickus.
MORRIS COUNTY – Friends, colleagues, and associates gathered at the County College of Morris (CCM) last week to celebrate Denise M. Bell, the Executive Administrative Assistant to the President and Recording Secretary to the Board of Trustees, who is retiring after more than thirty years of exemplary service. Commissioners Deborah Smith and John Krickus, liaisons to CCM, presented a framed Resolution of Honor to Bell on behalf of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners during festivities held in the college’s Learning Resource Center in Randolph.
“Denise has been an integral part of the success, growth, and daily functioning of CCM. Her dedication and kindness have profoundly impacted the college and the greater Morris County community,” said Commissioner Smith, reflecting on Bell’s remarkable career.
“Denise pours 110 percent into anything that she does. Our hearts plummeted when she told us a year ago what her plans were. But true to who she is, everything is planned and organized. She has helped us prepare for this day and we are going to miss her enormously,” said CCM President Anthony Iacono. “We are going to miss how she leads this office and the friend she is, but we are equally happy for her as well.”
Senator Anthony Bucco, Assemblyman Michael Inganamort, Kellie Doucette on behalf of U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, and the College Board of Trustees also honored Denise in her retirement.
“Smiles are contagious. When you walk anywhere at county college and Denise is there, everybody has a smile on their face. She is truly going to be missed. When I am on campus, I will miss being greeted by her smile and the warm, welcoming personality that she has,” said Senator Anthony Bucco, who presented Bell a joint Assembly citation.
Among her long list of responsibilities, Bell served as a liaison for the president and the board to state and federal agencies. She developed presentations for elected officials and industry leaders, in addition to planning significant college events including press conferences, employee engagements, and commencement ceremonies. She also prepared and managed the executive budget, and coordinated travel plans for the president and the board of trustees.
The celebration concluded with the CCM Chamber Choir singing “The Journey,” a moving tribute to Bell, who thanked everyone and offered some closing words of wisdom.
“I encourage you all to laugh a lot and to be kind. Smile as much as you want and as much as you can. I’ve made so many friends here and you’re all wonderful to me. Life is made up of losses and gains. Being here was a gain. Thank you all so much,” said Denise Bell.
Upon her official retirement at the end of August, she and her husband, David, plan to relocate to the South Shore of Massachusetts to be closer to their son and daughter-in-law.
To maintain consistent operations for the office of the President and Board of Trustees, Joanne Hugues will be appointed as the Executive Administrative Assistant and Trustee Recording Secretary. Mary Earl will be appointed to the position currently held by Ms. Hugues, Executive Administrative Assistant and Community Relations Coordinator.
