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Dover and Rockaway Township Police Officers Honored for Heroic Response at 200 Club Awards

By
Frank Cahill
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Members of the Dover Police Department and Rockaway Township Police Department with Sheriff James Gannon

MORRIS COUNTY — The 200 Club of Morris County held its 53rd Annual Valor and Meritorious Awards Celebration on Thursday, April 23, at the Birchwood Manor, recognizing first responders for outstanding service and heroism. Among the most compelling stories of the evening was the coordinated and courageous response by officers from the Dover Police Department and Rockaway Township Police Department.

Members of Dover and Rockaway Township Police Department

The officers were honored for their actions on the morning of August 1, 2025, when a routine situation quickly escalated into a dangerous and potentially deadly encounter. At approximately 8:32 a.m., in the parking lot of a DSW Shoe Warehouse in Rockaway Township, a suspect intentionally rammed a marked Dover Police vehicle operated by Officer Christopher Caraig. The force of the impact temporarily trapped the officer inside the vehicle. The suspect then fled on foot while armed with a machete, posing an immediate and serious threat to both law enforcement and the public.

Meritorious Honoree: Officer Christopher Caraig

Officer Caraig quickly pursued the suspect while calling for assistance. Rockaway Township Police Officer Giordan Matos responded immediately, joining Caraig and additional officers from surrounding jurisdictions. The suspect was eventually cornered at the top of a staircase behind the warehouse, where a tense and volatile standoff developed. Despite repeated commands, the suspect refused to comply and escalated the situation further by cutting his own forearm with the machete.

Rockaway Township Police Officer Giordan Matos

A turning point came when Dover Police Officer Jose Matos arrived on scene. Recognizing the suspect and understanding his background, Officer Matos used that familiarity to establish communication. With calm professionalism and exceptional judgment, he engaged the individual in dialogue while maintaining officer safety and tactical awareness.

Dover Police Officer Jose Matos

As additional specialized resources were requested, officers worked together to stabilize the situation through patience, controlled communication, and restraint. Demonstrating strong leadership and de-escalation skills, Officer Jose Matos successfully persuaded the suspect to voluntarily drop the machete and surrender peacefully.

What could have turned into a tragic confrontation was resolved without further injury. Officers ensured the suspect received medical attention, with Officer Matos even accompanying the individual during transport to the hospital—an act that underscored the compassion and humanity shown throughout the incident.

Morris County Sheriff James Gannon said “The collective efforts of Officers Christopher Caraig, Giordan Matos, and Jose Matos exemplified the highest ideals of law enforcement. Their ability to work as a team under extreme pressure, prioritize de-escalation, and protect all lives involved prevented a potentially fatal outcome.”

Other honorees included:

Denville Firefighter/EMT Abigail Dekker
Dekker was honored for her life-saving actions following a violent motorcycle crash on August 2, 2025. Arriving within minutes, she found the victim unresponsive with catastrophic injuries. Acting decisively, she initiated CPR, coordinated advanced life-saving equipment, and stabilized the patient. Her rapid response and clinical expertise were credited with saving the man’s life.

Mount Arlington Fire Department
Members of the Mount Arlington Fire Department were recognized as a Meritorious Team for their February 19, 2025 ice rescue on Lake Hopatcong. Responding to a report of a man who had fallen through the ice, crews quickly coordinated efforts, guided the victim through self-rescue, and safely brought him to shore under extremely hazardous conditions.

Chatham Township Police Department
Officers from the Chatham Township Police Department were honored for their response to a volatile domestic violence incident. Through swift, courageous action, they disarmed an armed individual and prevented a potentially fatal situation, ensuring the safety of all involved.

The evening served as a powerful reminder of the courage and dedication displayed daily by Morris County’s first responders. Each honoree reflected the highest standards of service, reinforcing the 200 Club’s mission to support and recognize those who risk their lives to protect others.

Since its founding in 1972, the 200 Club of Morris County has honored nearly 800 first responders and awarded close to $3 million in scholarships to local students, continuing its longstanding commitment to those who serve.

The 200 Club of Morris County continues its mission of supporting first responders and their families by providing financial assistance in times of tragedy and recognizing acts of extraordinary service. Since its founding in 1972, the organization has honored nearly 800 first responders and awarded close to $3 million in scholarships to local students.

For more information, visit www.200clubofmorriscounty.com.

From Classroom to Catwalk: CCM Students Showcase Original Designs at Spring Fashion Show

By
Frank Cahill
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The 2025 Spring Fashion Show at County College of Morris

MORRIS COUNTY — Style, innovation and creativity take center stage as County College of Morris (CCM) student designers debut their original work at the college’s annual “Spring Fashion Show” to be held on Wednesday, April 29, at 7 p.m.Open to the public, this free event offers the community an exciting first-hand look at emerging fashion talent and the next generation of designers. 

The runway will feature garments created by students enrolled in CCM’s Introduction to Sewing and Textiles and Fashion Construction Technology courses, along with independently designed pieces developed under the guidance of faculty mentors. While some students will model their own work, others collaborate with models to bring their creative visions to life on the runway. 

“Every year, our student designers go above and beyond to present their best pieces and the results of their hard work,” said Professor William Satmaria of CCM’s Department of Design and Media Studies. “Each student’s unique, personal sense of fashion will be expressed through the designs coming down the runway, and we’re excited for them to showcase the passion and creativity they’ve poured into every stitch with the campus and local community.” 

Held in the Davidson Rooms of the Student Community Center, the show offers an intimate and engaging setting where attendees can experience first-hand the artistry, craftsmanship and individuality of CCM’s student designers. 

For more information, contact CCM’s Department of Design and Media Studies. Email Karina Yermeni at [email protected] or Kelly Whalen at [email protected], or call (973) 328-5446. 

To learn more about the Associate of Fine Arts degree in Fashion Design at CCM click here.

Schenck, Price, Smith & King LLP Is Pleased to Welcome New Associate to Firm

By
Frank Cahill
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Anthony L. Bush

FLORHAM PARK — Schenck, Price, Smith & King LLP announced Anthony L. Bush has joined the Firm as Associate. Anthony will work in the Litigation Practice Group, where he will focus on civil litigation matters. This latest hire is part of the Firm’s targeted growth strategy as it continues to provide more complex and sophisticated services to its clients.

Anthony previously served as Assistant Prosecutor in Essex County, and as Assistant District Attorney in Suffolk County, Massachusetts.  In these roles, he managed a high-volume felony caseload and oversaw all phases of criminal litigation, including motion practice, evidentiary hearings, and trial preparation. He regularly argued motions before the Superior Court of New Jersey, presented cases to grand juries, and worked closely with law enforcements and forensic experts to investigate and prosecute complex criminal matters.   

In addition, Anthony has experience within civil litigation where he has drafted and argued dispositive motions, managed discovery, and developed case strategies in matters involving liability and other complex legal issues. 

Anthony earned his Juris Doctor from New England Law in Boston, Massachusetts; and received his Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology and Informatics from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. He was recognized on the Dean’s List during multiple semesters at the New England Law and was actively involved in student leadership, as he served on the Executive Board of the Black Law Students Association and as a 3L Representative for the Student Bar Association.  

According to John E. Ursin, Managing Partner, “we are pleased to have Anthony join the SPSK team. Our litigation department has been extremely busy and a young attorney with a proven work ethic is a welcome addition.  Anthony is obviously quite bright and very serious and mature for someone his age.  He will fit into our culture, and I expect him to have a long successful career with us.”

For more information on the firm, please contact John E. Ursin, Esq., Managing Partner; Chair, Marketing and Business Development Committee at  [email protected] or 973-295-3673.

ABOUT SCHENCK, PRICE, SMITH & KING: 

Schenck, Price, Smith & King is a full-service law firm with offices in Northern New Jersey and Manhattan, serving closely held, growing companies. For 112-plus years, Schenck Price has represented commercial businesses, individuals, public institutions and charitable organizations with excellence and integrity. We are proud that, in addition to their expertise and experience as legal practitioners, our attorneys have served in positions of leadership in public institutions, as well as community and charitable organizations.

Founded in 1912 as a two-person law firm in Morristown, Schenck Price has entered its second century of service as a firm of 80+ attorneys, serving virtually all legal needs of businesses and individuals. Our Firm’s long history of legal excellence in the areas of health care, education, construction, trust and estate planning, corporate law, real estate, insurance defense, banking and commercial litigation, has expanded as the Firm has grown. Our areas of practice also include telecommunications, technology, environmental law, corporate governance, labor and employment law, and family law. Many of our attorneys have been recognized as leaders in their respective practice areas.

200 Club Of Morris County Honors First Responders At Annual Valor Awards

By
Frank Cahill
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Members of the Dover Police Department and Rockaway Township Police Department with Sheriff James Gannon

MORRIS COUNTY — The 200 Club of Morris County held its 53rd Annual Valor and Meritorious Awards Celebration on Thursday, April 23, at the Birchwood Manor, recognizing first responders for outstanding service and heroism.

Among the honorees was Denville Firefighter/EMT Abigail Dekker, who was recognized for her extraordinary actions following a violent motorcycle crash that left a man with life-threatening injuries.

Denville Firefighter/EMT Abigail Dekker

On the evening of August 2, 2025, Dekker, assigned to Squad 2 from the Hill Firehouse, was diverted from another emergency call and arrived at the scene within minutes of a serious crash at Route 10 and Franklin Road. The driver of a three-wheeled motorcycle had lost control, struck a metal signpost, and was ejected from the vehicle, suffering catastrophic injuries and lying unresponsive.

Upon arrival, Dekker found the victim face down with a severe leg injury. Acting swiftly and with precision, she conducted a rapid assessment, carefully repositioned the patient while maintaining cervical spine stabilization, and immediately recognized the critical nature of the situation. Observing agonal respirations and no pulse, she initiated CPR without hesitation.

Assisted by a bystander, Dekker requested advanced lifesaving equipment, including a LUCAS chest compression device, stretcher, cervical collar, and backboard. Her calm demeanor under pressure and decisive leadership ensured that lifesaving measures were delivered effectively. After a round of compressions and ventilations, the patient regained consciousness and began speaking — a direct result of her immediate intervention and clinical expertise.

Once the patient’s airway and circulation were stabilized, Dekker turned her attention to the victim’s severe injuries, skillfully splinting a fractured leg to ensure proper alignment and blood flow. She then assisted arriving units in preparing the patient for transport to the hospital.

By the following morning, the patient was alert and receiving treatment for contusions and a fractured leg. Officials noted there is “no question” the man survived because of Dekker’s rapid response, clinical skill, and ability to remain composed in a high-pressure, life-or-death situation. Her actions exemplify the highest standards of emergency medical service and reflect great credit upon the Denville Volunteer Fire Department and the community she serves.

Mount Arlington Fire Department

Also recognized were members of the Mount Arlington Fire Department, honored as a Meritorious Team for their February 19, 2025 ice rescue on Lake Hopatcong. Responding to a report of a man who had fallen through the ice, crews quickly established communication, guided the victim through self-rescue, and safely brought him to shore. Their coordinated efforts resulted in a successful rescue under extremely dangerous conditions.

Members of Dover and Rockaway Township Police Department

In addition, members of the Dover Police Department and Rockaway Township Police were honored for their response to a high-risk incident on August 1, 2025. After a suspect rammed a police vehicle and fled with a machete, officers worked together to contain the situation. Through calm communication and de-escalation, the suspect was taken into custody without further injury, preventing what could have been a tragic outcome.

Chatham Police Department

Also recognized were officers from the Chatham Township Police Department, who responded to a volatile domestic violence incident and, through swift and courageous action, disarmed an armed individual and prevented a potentially fatal outcome. The evening highlighted the courage, teamwork, and dedication of Morris County’s first responders.

Parsippany PAL Executive Director Nick Bronzino, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Pulkit Desai and 200 Club Senior Vice President Joseph Jannarone, Jr.

The 200 Club of Morris County continues its mission of supporting first responders and their families by providing financial assistance in times of tragedy and recognizing acts of bravery and service. Since its founding in 1972, the organization has honored nearly 800 first responders and awarded close to $3 million in scholarships to local students.

For more information, visit www.200clubofmorriscounty.com.

Jefferson Township Hosting Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Event

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Residents of Jefferson Township will have the opportunity to safely dispose of household hazardous materials during a special collection event this weekend.

The township will host a Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Event on Saturday, April 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Department of Public Works (DPW) Complex.

Safe Disposal for Common Household Items

The event allows residents to properly dispose of materials that should not be placed in regular trash, including:

•Paints and stains
•Motor oil and automotive fluids
•Batteries
•Cleaning chemicals
•Pesticides and other hazardous products

Proper disposal helps protect the environment and prevents contamination of local waterways and landfills.

Residents are encouraged to bring accepted materials during the scheduled hours and follow all on-site instructions for safe drop-off.

For a full list of accepted items and guidelines, visit the township website.

Events like this play an important role in maintaining Jefferson Township’s commitment to environmental responsibility, especially in a community known for its natural resources and proximity to Lake Hopatcong.

Township officials encourage all residents to take advantage of this opportunity to safely dispose of hazardous household materials.

Jefferson Township Police Announce Junior Police Academy Registration for Middle School Students

By
Frank Cahill
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JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Police Department is inviting local families to register their children for its upcoming Junior Police Academy, a hands-on summer program designed for students entering sixth through eighth grade.

Open to children ages 11 to 14, the program offers a unique opportunity for participants to learn about law enforcement while building valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Throughout the academy, students will take part in interactive activities, demonstrations, and structured exercises led by members of the police department.

The Junior Police Academy is designed to provide a positive and educational experience, giving young participants a better understanding of the role police officers play in the community while fostering respect and communication between youth and law enforcement.

Parents interested in enrolling their child can register online by clicking here.

Payment, by check or cash, will be collected during the parent and recruit orientation.

Spots are expected to fill quickly, and early registration is encouraged.

Video: Jefferson Township Town Council Meeting – April 22, 2026

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Jefferson Township

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Jefferson Township Town Council Meeting – April 22, 2026.

Click here to download the agenda.

  • Eric F. Wilsusen (R) – Mayor
  • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2026
  1. Robert “Bob” Birmingham (R) – Council President
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2028
  2. Josh Kalish (R) – Council Vice President
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2026
  3. Melissa Senatore (R) – Councilwoman
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2026
  4. Barbie Garruto (R) – Councilwoman
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2028
  5. Dan Schultz (R) – Councilman
    • Republican Party — Term expires December 31, 2028

Vincent Rispoli Named to Hampshire Honor Society

By
Frank Cahill
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Vincent Rispoli

EAST HANOVER — Vincent Rispoli has been recognized for academic and athletic excellence by being named to the National Football Foundation’s Hampshire Honor Society. Rispoli is studying Business Administration as a member of the class of 2026 at Muhlenberg College.

To be nominated for the Hampshire Honor Society, a player must have been a senior who completed his final year of playing eligibility, attained a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher, and been a starter or contributor throughout the season.

Rispoli’s team enjoyed an outstanding football season in 2025, ending with a 9-3 record and earning an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament. The Mules defeated Union in the first round, recording a postseason win for the eighth consecutive season, and received votes in both final Division III polls.

Founded in 1848, Muhlenberg is a highly selective, four-year residential, liberal arts college in the city of Allentown, Pa., with nearly 2,000 bachelor’s and master’s degree-seeking students and a high return on investment. The college’s curriculum and experiences are designed to open doors to new ideas, discoveries, friendships and a lifetime of personal and intellectual growth.

Letter to the Editor: Jefferson Residents Deserve Answers: A Call for Transparency, Accountability, and a Direct Debate

By
Frank Cahill
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0

Dear Editor:

A recent report by Jefferson Focus — — “Jefferson Township Under Scrutiny as Questions Go Unanswered” — raised serious, documented questions about Eric F. Wilsusen’s long-standing financial relationships with a township vendor, and about the township’s refusal to release basic records that residents have every right to see. The Save Jefferson team — Christian Barranco, Sheila Brown, and Dottie Santasieri — believe those questions deserve straight answers.

According to filings with the Ocean County Clerk and the New Jersey Division of Revenue, Mayor Wilsusen, Police Chief Paul Castimore, and Atlantic Communications owner Gary Davieau jointly purchased property in Little Egg Harbor in 2006. In 2015, Eric Wilsusen was added, by amendment, to a company named PES LLC with the wives of Mr. Davieau and Chief Castimore. That company owned a commercial property at 664 Route 15 South, the same building where Atlantic Communications, a township vendor, operated as a tenant.

On March 23, 2026, Jefferson Focus filed an open public records request for township invoices paid to Atlantic Communications from 2023 through 2026. The legal response deadline has now passed twice, and the records remain unreleased. 

There may be reasonable explanations for each of these facts, and we welcome them. But the answer to a transparency question cannot be delayed any longer. We are calling on Eric Wilsusen to release every invoice, purchase order, and disclosure related to Atlantic Communications within seven days, and to recuse himself from any township decision involving a vendor in which he or his business partners hold a direct or indirect financial interest, per our municipal code. We are also urging the Township Council to authorize an independent review of contracts awarded to vendors connected to township officials over the past ten years.

This is not an isolated concern. It fits a broader pattern of how this administration communicates with residents. Eric has been posting campaign content on a Facebook page titled “Eric Wilsusen–Mayor of Jefferson Twp NJ,” categorized by Facebook as a “Government Official” page and listing [email protected] as the contact, which is his official government email address. A line in the bio notes the page is “created & managed” by Eric Wilsusen personally, but the overall impression residents are meant to take away is that of an official government page. Paired with ignored records requests, that is not the conduct of an administration that trusts residents with the full picture.

These decisions do not only affect the Mayor. He has aligned himself publicly with a sitting state senator and several Morris County elected officials, and every unanswered records request and carefully worded communication puts their reputations on the line alongside his own. Those officials should ask themselves whether they want their names attached to a pattern of conduct that Jefferson residents are increasingly being asked to question.

Christian Barranco extends an open invitation to Mayor Wilsusen: meet face to face. Debate the record, the budget, the taxes, and the transparency of Jefferson Township in front of the voters who will decide this primary on June 2nd. Residents deserve to hear both candidates answer for their positions directly in public, on the record, and without fine print.

Save Jefferson Team
Barranco for Jefferson Mayor
Brown & Santasieri for Council

Jefferson Arts Committee Announces Window Painting Contest At Public Library

By
Frank Cahill
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0

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Arts Committee is inviting students to showcase their creativity during its upcoming Window Painting Contest, scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Jefferson Township Public Library.

Open to students in grades 6 through 12, the contest offers a unique opportunity for young artists to transform library windows into vibrant works of art using their own Jefferson Arts Committee-approved themes.

Participants may register as teams of two to four students or individually, with single students being placed onto teams. The contest welcomes students from within and outside the district, including those who are homeschooled.

All supplies for the event will be provided, making it easy for students to participate and focus on their creativity. Following the contest, the community will have the opportunity to vote on their favorite designs, with an award ceremony to be held at the library.

Students interested in participating must register by Saturday, April 26. To sign up or receive more information, participants are asked to email Linda at [email protected], including their name, grade, and phone number.

The Jefferson Arts Committee continues to promote arts and culture throughout the community, and this event is expected to bring together young talent for a day of creativity, collaboration, and community engagement.

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