Citizens Bank, located at 453 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains
MORRIS PLAINS — Gregory Lucey, 23, with a last known address in Newark, has been arrested and charged with Criminal Trespass and Criminal Mischief in connection to an incident that occurred on November 1, according to Morris Plains Police Chief Michael M. Koroski.
Authorities reported that at approximately 8:15 p.m. on Friday, November 1, a male suspect forced entry through the front doors of Citizens Bank, located at 453 Speedwell Avenue.
Morris Plains Police Officers responded to an activated alarm and discovered damage to the front doors.
Assistance was requested from neighboring law enforcement agencies, including the Morris Township, Morristown, Hanover Township, and Randolph Township Police Departments, along with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division and K-9 Section.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Section also provided support in the investigation.
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.
DENVILLE — A 19-year-old Flanders resident tragically lost his life Sunday, November 3, after his vehicle struck a parked box truck along the shoulder of Interstate 80 in Morris County, according to New Jersey State Police spokesperson Sergeant Charles Marchan.
The collision occurred around 5:40 a.m. on the westbound side of Interstate 80 at mile marker 38.2 in Denville Township.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Cameron Ray was driving a Subaru when he veered onto the right shoulder, colliding with the rear of a Chevrolet box truck parked on the shoulder, operated by Anthony Cotter.
Ray sustained fatal injuries from the crash, while Cotter suffered minor injuries. Marchan said the incident remains under investigation.
BOONTON — Residents of Boonton are invited to attend a series of public meetings held throughout November, providing an opportunity to stay informed and participate in local government decisions. Meetings take place in person at Boonton Town Hall, located at 100 Washington Street, at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise specified on the Town’s official website.
The Mayor and Town Council will hold two regular public sessions this month on November 4 and November 18, with each session beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Council meetings provide a forum for discussing community issues, upcoming projects, and policies affecting the town.
The Historic Preservation Commission will meet on November 6 to review plans and initiatives aimed at preserving Boonton’s historical sites and landmarks. This commission works to protect the town’s rich heritage, ensuring that its historic character is maintained for future generations.
On November 13, the Planning Board will convene to discuss proposals for development and land use within Boonton. This board evaluates new projects and considers how they fit within the town’s growth objectives and zoning regulations.
Finally, the Board of Health will meet on November 19 to address public health concerns, updates, and regulations impacting Boonton residents. The board focuses on promoting community health and safety through various local initiatives.
Agendas for each meeting are posted in advance and can be accessed through the Agenda Center on the Town of Boonton’s website, where meeting minutes are also added once approved. The town encourages residents to attend these meetings, contribute their input, and stay informed on matters impacting the Boonton community.
Murphy Administration Allocates $20 Million for Local Recreation Improvements Across NJ
MORRIS COUNTY — The state Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Division of Local Government Services (DLGS) is accepting applications from counties, municipalities, and school districts for Local Recreation Improvement Grant (LRIG) Program funding.
The Murphy Administration allocated $20 million in the Fiscal Year 2025 state budget to this competitive grant program, which is now in its fifth year supporting the improvement and repair of public recreation facilities including local parks, municipal recreation centers, and local stadiums.
LRIG funds will be awarded to successful grant applicants to help cover costs associated with updating community centers, playgrounds, pools, fields, walking or bicycle trails, rail trails, multi-sport courts, and recreational facilities; one-time personnel costs directly related to improvements; project development professional services costs; equipment costs including playground and recreation facilities equipment; and environmental remediation costs required to prepare recreation sites for use.
New Jersey counties, municipalities, and school districts are eligible to apply.
To qualify for LRIG funding, applicants must:
• Describe the intended use of grant funding for the improvement or repair of a specific local recreation site and identify any previously encountered obstacles to repair or improve the space. • Demonstrate their capacity to complete the proposed project and provide project management and oversight for all activities and fiscal operations. • List key personnel and/or consultants who will be managing the grant funds and proposed project. • Provide a cost breakdown of the project. • Submit a governing body resolution acknowledging and approving any grant application and the proposed plan or design for the recreation space or community facility for which funding is sought.\
A sample resolution can be found on the DLGS website by clicking here.
Certify that the property where improvements will be made is owned by the county, municipality, or school district.
Applications must be submitted through the DCA SAGE Portal by clicking here. They are due no later than 5 p.m. on January 31.
Program guidelines and detailed information about the FY 2025 LRIG Program are available by clicking here on the DCA website.
For more information about DCA, click here or follow the department on social media.
MORRIS COUNTY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) is launching her fourth annual “Thanksgiving Thank Yous” program to collect notes of appreciation for local veterans. The cards will be distributed to veterans throughout the area to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday.
“As we spend time this holiday season remembering all we are grateful for, the Thanksgiving Thank You program is a wonderful opportunity to remind our veterans that our community appreciates their tremendous service and sacrifice,” said Rep. Sherrill. “I hope that all NJ-11 residents, especially students, will participate for another year of recognizing our veterans!”
Residents are invited to drop off or mail their cards and notes to Rep. Sherrill’s District Office in Livingston, starting Thursday, October 31, through Monday, November 18, 2024. Cards submitted in envelopes should not be sealed or closed unless mailed to the District Office. You can drop off cards Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 357 South Livingston Road, Suite 201, Livingston, NJ 07039.
If you have any questions, please call the office at (973) 526-5668 or email melanie.holmes@mail.house.gov.
DOVER — The Thanksgiving Food Drive will run until November 21, 2024. Each family in need will receive a turkey and a bag of Thanksgiving meal essentials. Distribution will occur at the Garden Chapel in Dover, on November 22, 2024, at 12:00 p.m.
How to Help:
Donations can be sent via:
Zelle: Carolyn D. Quinn at 973-479-3852
Venmo: Carolyn-Quinn-5
ShopRite Gift Card: Or purchase items from the list below.
Cash donations will go toward purchasing turkeys.
Suggested Shopping List per Family:
2 cans of corn
2 cans of green beans
2 cans of cranberry sauce
1 large can of yam
1 can of pumpkin or fruit pie filling
2 boxes of cornbread
2 boxes of stuffing
3 jars of turkey gravy
1 box of pie crust mix
1 large box or 2 small boxes of instant potatoes
1 bag of mini marshmallows
Please share this drive with family, friends, coworkers, or your church. For questions, contact Carolyn at (973) 479-3852.
The Randolph Rams Cheerleading team brought spirit and energy to Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, joining thousands of participants in support of the fight against breast cancer. Their enthusiasm added to the event’s uplifting atmosphere and community unity.
MORRIS COUNTY — The 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Parsippany brought together over 6,000 walkers at the Century Office Campus, Parsippany, to unite against breast cancer. Held at 4 Century Drive, this year’s event was a powerful demonstration of community support, raising an impressive $347,594. With participants from local teams, companies, schools, and individuals, each person played a role in advancing the goal to end breast cancer as we know it.
Making Strides: Parsippany’s Annual Walk Raises Hope and $347,594 for Breast Cancer Fight
Making Strides is recognized as the nation’s largest and most impactful movement focused on ending breast cancer. Funds raised through events like these allow the American Cancer Society to fuel life-saving research, boost education and awareness about prevention, and provide essential support for patients and families facing breast cancer.
Apart from skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer type among women. Approximately 313,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, with an additional 56,500 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) expected to be diagnosed in women.
6,000+ Walkers Join Forces in Parsippany to End Breast Cancer
This year’s top team was Rising to the Challenge, which raised an outstanding $24,582, with the top individual participant, Joan Van Soest. Other key teams included The Fighting Champions ($22,540), Hanna’s Bananas Powered by Toyota ($13,014), and THE PINK STRIDERS ($11,024). Local organizations and companies also lent their support, with Atlantic Health Systems raising $17,292, Toyota Motor North America raising $13,014, and Siemens Healthineers raising $9,663. In addition, Parsippany-Troy Hills PBA Local 131 donated $2,500, underscoring the organization’s commitment to the community.
Students and staff from Morristown Beard School join together at Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, contributing $8,822 with a team of 130 participants in support of the cause.
Local schools also rallied behind the cause, with Morristown Beard School raising $8,822 from its 130 participants.
Parsippany-based Gilead proudly served as a Tribute Garden Sponsor, supporting the meaningful space dedicated to honoring and remembering those affected by breast cancer at the Making Strides event.
This collective effort of the Parsippany community highlights the strength and solidarity that fuels the fight against breast cancer. Each step taken, dollar raised, and story shared reinforces the commitment to a world free from breast cancer, showing that Parsippany is a community that won’t stop until breast cancer is defeated.
Paul Miller Auto Group raised $1,710 at Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, adding to the community’s efforts to fund research and support services in the fight against breast cancer.Melissa Gargantiel proudly holds the $2,500 check from Parsippany-Troy Hills PBA Local 131, a generous contribution to Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. This donation underscores the PBA’s commitment to supporting breast cancer research and patient care in the community.Members of Parsippany-Troy Hills PBA Local 131 present a $2,500 check at Parsippany’s 28th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, showing their strong support for breast cancer research, education, and patient support in the local community.Survivors and thrivers were celebrated at the event, with heartfelt gratitude extended to Zeta Tau Alpha, the incredible National Survivor Ambassador. At Making Strides events nationwide, Zeta Tau Alpha played a crucial role in honoring and celebrating thousands of survivors and thrivers in the Survivor Tents. Their unwavering support made a significant impact, and the organizers look forward to seeing everyone again next year.Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace generously served as the Event Refreshment Sponsor, providing delicious snacks and beverages to fuel participants at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. Their support helped keep the community energized throughout the day.
Students from the Mountain Lakes High School Kiwanis Key Club enthusiastically volunteered at the Trick or Suite event, bringing energy and smiles to the children of P.G. Chambers School. As part of their commitment to community service, these students joined other local organizations to decorate suites and hand out candy, creating a memorable Halloween experience. The Key Club’s participation exemplifies their dedication to service, leadership, and making a positive impact in the community.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — Embassy Suites, located at 909 Parsippany Boulevard, Parsippany, hosted its 30th Annual Trick or Suite event on Friday, October 25. Trick or Suite provides a safe and enjoyable Halloween experience for the children of the P.G. Chambers School, featuring decorated hotel suites and candy giveaways by participating organizations. Each organization created a festive suite and dressed in costume, adding to the Halloween fun for the children.
Employees of Embassy Suites dressed up to entertain the children of P.G. Chambers School, adding excitement and Halloween spirit to the event.It was all smiles at P.G. Chambers School as students enjoyed a supportive and joyful environment designed just for them. The dedicated staff, caring volunteers, and the school’s welcoming atmosphere make every day a positive experience for the children, helping them achieve their goals with enthusiasm and pride.
The 2024 Trick or Suite event was made possible through the generous participation of the following companies and groups:
American Care Center
Bayada
Beneo, Inc.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Chobani
CohnReznick
Collabera
Crunch Fitness Parsippany
DoubleTree by Hilton Jersey City
EWMA
Mountain Lakes High School Key Club
New Vision Pioneers
Northwest District Elks Special Children’s Committee
P.G. Chambers School
Tilcon New York
Trane
At the recent Trick or Suite event held at Embassy Suites in Parsippany, Chobani joined other organizations to bring Halloween cheer to children from P.G. Chambers School, reflecting its ongoing dedication to fostering community spirit and supporting children and families in need.
Additionally, ShopRite of Parsippany and Palermo’s Pizza & Family Restaurant contributed generous donations to the event, helping to make this year’s Trick or Suite a memorable celebration.
Northwest District Elks Special Children’s Committee: Debby Christensen of Boonton, Doreen Middleton Sparta, Joe Serrecchia Parsippany, and Wayne McDonald Former VP of the Northwest District.Dressed in bright, cheerful Barbie costumes, the volunteers brought extra sparkle to the Trick or Suite event for the children of P.G. Chambers School. With each costume reflecting the playful and colorful Barbie theme, they delighted the young attendees, adding a special touch of fun to the Halloween celebration. The Barbie-themed outfits helped create a warm and welcoming environment, making the day even more magical for everyone involved.
P.G. Chambers School, located in Cedar Knolls, is a renowned nonprofit school dedicated to educating and supporting children with disabilities. Serving students from ages three to fourteen, the school provides a range of specialized programs tailored to meet the unique learning, developmental, and therapeutic needs of each child. Through its commitment to fostering independence, personal growth, and academic success, P.G. Chambers School creates a nurturing environment that empowers students to reach their full potential. The school’s multidisciplinary approach integrates academics, therapy, and assistive technology, enabling children to overcome challenges and build confidence. With the help of a dedicated team of educators, therapists, and support staff, P.G. Chambers School continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families across Northern New Jersey.
The Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry is located at 91 Passaic Valley Road, Montville. It is open to the community on Thursdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. For more information, please email KiwanisofMontville@gmail.com or call 973-400-9222. Individuals in need of assistance are welcome to stop by the pantry during operating hours to receive groceries at no cost. Please bring a form of ID.
MORRIS COUNTY — The “Love in Action” volunteers are preparing to assemble single-serve Thanksgiving meals, marking a new partnership with the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry. For the first time, this inspiring collaboration will provide 250 free single-serve meals to patrons, bringing hope and a hearty holiday meal to those in need.
About Love in Action: Love in Action, a volunteer initiative organized by Mitchell Morrison, is dedicated to donating, assembling, and delivering Thanksgiving meals to local individuals and families facing hardship. Over the years, the initiative has distributed “thousands of free, deliciously prepared, single-serve Thanksgiving meals,” according to Morrison. Generous sponsors supporting the cause include Andre’s, Cafe Pierrot, and Sparta Diner in Sparta; Arbor/SCCC in Newton; Barnyard in Branchville; and Fossil Farms in Boonton. Their collective efforts are helping to brighten Thanksgiving for many.
Get Involved: Those interested in volunteer opportunities with the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry or learning how to join Montville Kiwanis are encouraged to connect. The organization welcomes new members eager to help provide hope and support to those in need, not only during the holiday season but throughout the year.
The Montville Kiwanis Club meets on the first and third Thursdays of each month at The Columbia Inn in Montville, beginning at 6:30 p.m. New members are always welcome!
Mayor and staff proudly wear pink in a show of solidarity for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, promoting hope, resilience, and the importance of preventative health
DOVER — Town of Dover Mayor James P. Dodd, alongside the committed administrative staff and employees, stood united in pink to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Wearing pink represented our collective hope, resilience, and solidarity in the fight against breast cancer. Mayor Dodd emphasized the importance of prevention, stating, “I encourage all female employees to take advantage of a scheduled paid day off for a mammogram—prevention is key.”
