DOVER — Former Mayor Dodd organized a campaign fundraiser for his team, Rescue Dover, which drew a packed room of attendees purchasing tickets for $250 each. The team comprises Dodd as the mayoral candidate, Claudio Torro representing Ward 1, Sergio Rodriguez representing Ward 2, Jhon Londono representing Ward 3, and AB Santana, the current 4th ward Alderman running for re-election.
James P. Dodd was the Former Dover mayor for 14 years, bringing major developments such as FedEx, Marriott & Hilton Hotel, CubeSmart, Meridia Transit Apartments, One Thompson Apartments, Renovated Crescent Field, Water Works Park, and more.
Claudio Torro is a Latina entrepreneur who runs a tax accounting service in downtown Dover. She is a well-established and long-time resident with over 15 years of experience working in the community. Torro actively volunteers at the Dover branch of the Morris County Sussex Family Center, dedicating her time and skills for more than five years. Additionally, she is devoted to raising an eleven-year-old son, exemplifying her commitment to her family and the Dover community.
Sergio Rodriguez is first generation Latino who immigrated to Dover with his family at the age of four; He is a graduate of Academy Street, Dover Middle School, and Morris County School of Technology while also holding a B.A. from William Paterson University. He is the former 2019 intern for Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill of NJ-11, helping establish the Parsippany Constituent Service Office. He is a recent post-graduate professional who has worked three years in the non-profit political world of Washington D.C. and Miami but moved back to rescue Dover.
Jhon Londono is employed by the New York Yankees as the Station Operations Manager in charge of over 450 employees daily. He operates a small cleaning business employing only Dover residents and gives the town great service. He is a longtime resident of Dover who is well known among the local business community because he has supported for over a decade. He is the oldest of four brothers and has supported his family by working hard since age eleven.
Three Democrats are running for mayor in the June 6 primary: Former Mayor Dodd, incumbent Mayor Carolyn Blackman, and former Alderman Edward Correa. In heavily Democratic Dover, where no Republicans have filed to run for mayor, a win in the primary likely clears the way for victory in the general election this November.
Dodd served three terms as mayor before losing two bitter campaigns to Blackman in 2019 after the Morris County Democratic Committee endorsed a slate of candidates.
After losing the primary to Blackman, Dodd again ran as an independent against her in the November general election and lost by 50 votes. Blackman became Dover’s first female mayor and the first Black woman to lead the town.
Blackman, however, failed to win her party’s endorsement in her bid for a second term at last month’s Dover Democratic Committee convention.
BOONTON — The 2nd Annual Boonton Car, Truck, and Bike Show: A Thrilling Automotive Showcase was held on Sunday, May 7 was held on Main Street.
Tracy Pryer, from Boonton Parks and Recreation, orchestrated the spectacular event, showcasing hundreds of vehicles on display.
The Boonton Car Show featured various vehicles, captivating the attendees with their beauty, craftsmanship, and unique characteristics. From classic cars and trucks to modern muscle cars and imported gems, the event showcased the rich automotive heritage and the enthusiasm of car enthusiasts. Each vehicle told its story, reflecting the owners’ pride and dedication to their passion for automotive. The various vehicles created a vibrant and exciting atmosphere, providing an enjoyable experience for all who attended the Boonton Car Show.
The event featured a thrilling awards ceremony. Trophies were presented for various categories, including Best of Show, People’s Choice, Club Participation, Antique, Classic, Modern Muscle, Modern Import, Mopar, Truck, and Motorcycle.
BOONTON — The Judge Less Fest on Sunday, May 21, was truly amazing!
The event was a resounding success, with an impressive turnout of over 500 people.
The volunteers’ dedication and hard work contributed to the festival’s smooth running. The presence of the band Stereo Jo and the extraordinary performance by Irish stepping drag queen Tina D Parton, who traveled from Ireland, added an incredible energy and entertainment factor to the event. The organizers are grateful to the entertainers for generously donating their time and talent to support their cause.
The festival featured a fun kids zone, delectable food options, and 20 fantastic vendors, creating a delightful and diverse experience for all attendees. The organizers ensured everyone a safe and enjoyable environment, making it a truly outstanding day. Special thanks were extended to the businesses that donated beautiful gifts for the free raffle, adding excitement to the event.
Lake Hiawatha’s Funny Books was a notable exhibitor at the Judge Less Fest. Their presence added a touch of humor and entertainment to the event, offering attendees a unique and enjoyable experience. As an exhibitor, Lake Hiawatha’s Funny Books showcased a variety of humorous books, comics, or related merchandise, bringing laughter and joy to festival-goers.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the police and the community of Boonton for their invaluable support and for making Grace Lord Park the perfect venue for the festival. The success of the Judge Less Fest would not have been possible without every attendee’s participation. Their presence and support made the event truly memorable.
To learn more about the event and its cause, please visit www.JudgeLess.org.
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, and Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon joined other county and state officials in honoring 11 graduating Morris County Recovery Court program participants.
The Recovery Court graduation ceremony was held at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy on May 23, 2023. Graduations are typically held twice a year.
The ceremony was presided over by Superior Court Judge Robert Hanna and Col. Callahan was a special guest speaker. Other addresses included Judge Stuart A. Minkowitz, Judge Michael E. Hubner, Prosecutor Carroll, Sheriff Gannon, Alumni Association President Charles Johnson, and Deputy Public Defender Susan McCoy.
Operating within the Superior Court, the Recovery Court program was established to offer non-violent drug offenders treatment instead of incarceration. Individuals undergo a rigorous program in five phases intensive probation supervision, frequent drug testing, and virtual court appearances. This level of supervision permits the program to support the recovery process but also allows supervisors to react quickly to impose appropriate therapeutic sanctions or to reinstate criminal proceedings when participants do not comply. Suppose the individuals complete the program and reach graduation. In that case, they pay their fines and restitution and can apply to have certain convictions expunged, offering them an opportunity to re-enter society as a citizen without the stigma of such a conviction.
Previously named Drug Court, the program began in Camden and Essex counties in 1996 and expanded statewide in April 2002 when Morris and Sussex’s counties joined.
The Recovery Court program in Morris County has 95 participants.
MORRIS COUNTY — Five Morris County Commissioners publicly announced their strong and enthusiastic endorsement for their colleague Commissioner Tayfun Selen in his re-election campaign to be elected to the Morris County Board of Commissioners.
Commissioner Director John Krickus, Commissioner Christine Myers, Commissioner Doug Cabana, Commissioner Stephen Shaw, and Commissioner Deborah Smith unanimously boasted about Selen’s accomplishments and leadership.
“With the help of Tayfun’s leadership, Morris County has not only had four years of zero tax increases, but we also have the second lowest county property taxes in the state.” Commissioner Director John Krickus.
“There is only one conservative choice in this race and a proven Republican winner – Tayfun Selen. Selen is part of the Republican team delivering budget after budget without tax hikes. It is cited by experts as one of the best-run counties in America at managing tax dollars through our AAA bond rating. We need to keep Tayfun working for Morris County. His aptitude for finance, private sector success, and professional background as a CPA and MBA make him an invaluable resource for the County. I am proud to serve with him!” stated Commissioner Deputy Director Christine Myers.
Morris County has a lot to be proud of, which is the direct result of having an all-Republican Commissioner Board. For example, Morris County has the following:
#1 County College
#1 Vocation School
#1 Park System
#1 Safest County
Best Roads, Bridges, and Infrastructure
Highest Income with the lowest unemployment rate
Leadership in delivering services such as the Sheriff’s Hope One
“From stopping tax hikes to increasing law enforcement funding to record levels and using the power of the office to stand up against woke mobs, I’m proud of the record I’ve built. I’m humbled by my colleagues’ support and the entire Republican Party’s endorsement, and look forward to being a true conservative champion on the Board of Commissioners.” Selen gratefully stated.
MORRIS COUNTY — It’s fantastic that the Kiwanis Aktion Club of Morris County actively participated in the “Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair” at Central Park on Sunday, May 21. Events like these provide valuable opportunities for community engagement, support, and resource sharing.
The club’s involvement in such events demonstrates their commitment to creating inclusive and enjoyable experiences for everyone. Well done to the Kiwanis Aktion Club of Morris County for their meaningful contribution to the event!
Aktion Club is the only service club for adults with disabilities, with over 10,000 members worldwide. Club members become competent, capable, caring leaders through the vehicle of service.
The DAWN Center hosts Morris County Aktion Club, which provides a valuable platform for youth aged 18 and over to foster their leadership skills, engage in community service, and participate in social activities. This collaboration not only empowers the youth but also positively impacts the community. Kudos to the DAWN Center for Independent Living and the Kiwanis Club of Morris County for their dedication to promoting leadership development and community involvement among young individuals.
During the event, visitors explored and learned about various disability service agencies, engaging in valuable interactions and gaining awareness about the available resources. The wheelchair baseball games added an element of excitement and inclusivity, showcasing the talents and skills of athletes with disabilities. Additionally, attendees enjoyed a variety of food options and participated in games with the chance to win prizes. This combination of educational opportunities, inclusive sports, and enjoyable activities made the event a memorable and enriching experience for all involved.
HANOVER — Amanda Grace M. Ruiz of Whippany was among the more than 500 graduates who earned masters and doctoral degrees at The University of Scranton. Degrees were presented at its graduate commencement ceremony on May 21 at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre. Degrees were conferred to graduates who had completed their academic degree requirements in August and December of 2022, as well as January and May of 2023.
Ruiz earned a Master of Science in occupational therapy from The University of Scranton.
At the ceremony, the University conferred its first Doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in accounting degrees to 12 graduates. The University also conferred Doctor of nursing practice doctor of physical therapy degrees, and Master’s degrees in various disciplines. Graduates represented 27 states: California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Virginia. Students also represented Puerto Rico, Saudi Arabia, and India. The programs with the most graduates were the Master of business administration, master of health administration, master of occupational therapy, master of Accountancy and doctor of physical therapy.
HANOVER — Hanover Township has always prided itself as a community that cares for those in need and exhibits its compassion and understanding by actively supporting and directing its resources toward improving the quality of life of fellow human beings. Since 1985, the Township has forged a strong working relationship with ARCMorris. It is in that year the very first group home in Hanover opened.
Since then, five additional group homes have been constructed and occupied, and a seventh is in the planning stages. It is because of Hanover’s commitment and dedication to the care, support, and advancement of people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities and their families that the Township was given the “Best Friend Award” during ARCMorris’ 70th Anniversary Annual Awards Gala reception at the Birchwood Manor on Wednesday, May 17.
Accepting the award on behalf of the Township were Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher and Committeemen Ronald F. Francioli and John L. Ferramosca. During the presentation, it was noted that Hanover Township has made a difference in Morris County because of its continuous support and advocacy in helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It was also noted that ARCMorris’ success in Hanover largely belongs to former Mayor Sal Iannaccone, the catalyst and chief proponent in forging a working relationship with ARCMorris and all stakeholders.
HANOVER — Hanover Township Police Officer Brandon Law arrested Mr. James Rosenski, 53, currently residing at the Red Carpet Inn, for theft, on May 10.
Officer Law was called to the Wegmans for an individual who had used counterfeit money for purchase and was in the store again attempting to purchase more merchandise. Loss prevention turned over the counterfeit $100.00 bill to the Hanover Police, which was fraudulent.
Mr. Rosenski was arrested and charged with forgery and theft by unlawful taking.
He was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his court date.
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.
HANOVER – Hanover Township Police Officer Anthony D’Angelo arrested Mr. Juan Zapata-Mendoza, 37, Boonton, for shoplifting on April 25.
Officer D’Angelo responded to Wegmans for a reported shoplifter being detained.
Upon arrival, Officer D’Angelo arrested Mr. Zapata-Mendoza and charged him with shoplifting $240.67 worth of merchandise. He was also advised he was no longer allowed on store property. He was released pending his court date.
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.