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Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey Celebrates Grand Opening in Morris Plains

By
Frank Cahill
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Carl Augusto, Board Chair of the Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey, and Senator Anthony M. Bucco proudly cut the ribbon at VLANJ’s new home in Morris Plains, marking an exciting new chapter for the organization. Surrounded by supporters, the event celebrated VLANJ’s commitment to empowering individuals with vision loss through expanded programs and services.

MORRIS PLAINS – The Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey (VLANJ) proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new home in Morris Plains on Thursday, February 27. The ribbon-cutting event marked an exciting new chapter for the nonprofit, which has been serving individuals with vision loss and blindness for over 81 years.

Morris Plains, known as a “Community of Caring,” has already welcomed VLANJ with open arms. This new facility will allow the organization to expand its programs and provide more opportunities for individuals to live independently and lead fulfilling lives.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Carl Augusto, VLANJ Board Chair, and Senator Anthony M. Bucco, a dedicated supporter of the organization, led the official ribbon-cutting.

Distinguished Guests and Supporters

VLANJ was honored to have many key figures and supporters attend the event, including:

  • Dr. Bernice M. Davis & Bryan McClain – NJ Commission for the Blind & Visually Impaired
  • Frank Cafasso – VLANJ Board of Trustees Member
  • Carl Augusto & Sue Augusto – VLANJ Board of Trustees Chair
  • Ming Wu – VLANJ Board of Trustees Vice Chair
  • Lukas Franck & Chris Reichert – VLANJ Board of Trustees Members
  • Senator Anthony Bucco – NJ Senator (25th District)
  • Britni Orcutt & Meghan Hunscher – Morris County Chamber of Commerce
  • Megan Waters – Representing Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill’s office
  • Council President Sal Cortese – Representing Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr
  • Nancy Verga – Morris Plains Council Member
  • Michael M. Koroski – Morris Plains Chief of Police

Expanded Programs and Services

The new VLANJ facility is designed to support a growing range of life-enhancing programs, including:

  • The Fellowship Program (in collaboration with NJCBVI)
  • Mental Health & Wellness Programs
  • Orientation & Mobility Training
  • VLANJ @Home Program

Looking Ahead

VLANJ’s leadership emphasized that this move is just the beginning. The organization remains committed to developing more opportunities that promote independence, inclusion, and empowerment for individuals with vision loss.

For more information about VLANJ’s programs, contact Program Director Vicki Lowrie at (973) 627-0055, ext. 4, or email [email protected].

Click here to read more about the event and VLANJ’s vision for the future.

Newark Man Charged in Multi-County Dunkin’ Donuts Burglary Spree

By
Frank Cahill
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A Newark man has been charged in connection with a multi-county Dunkin’ Donuts burglary spree, targeting locations in Edison, Lodi, Hackensack, Paramus, Summit, Chatham, Florham Park, East Hanover, Hillsdale, Emerson, and River Vale. Authorities say he stole over $18,000 and caused $10,000 in property damage.

MORRIS COUNTY — A Newark man has been charged in connection with a series of Dunkin’ Donuts burglaries spanning multiple counties following an extensive investigation led by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Crime Reduction Unit, according to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella.

For approximately two months, from December 2024 through January 2025, law enforcement agencies in New Jersey and New York identified a pattern of commercial burglaries. Detectives linked 14 burglaries, one attempted break-in across Bergen, Middlesex, Morris, and Union counties, and similar incidents in New York.

Burglary Pattern and Investigation

The suspect, 24-year-old Enajaim E. Bowman, was connected to multiple overnight break-ins at Dunkin’ Donuts locations. Surveillance footage showed a lone suspect prying open locked doors and windows, targeting cash registers, safes, and managers’ offices.

Among the affected locations were three Dunkin’ Donuts in Morris County:
•118 Main Street, Chatham – $795 stolen; $2,750 damage (January 17, 2025, 2:22 a.m.)
•176 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park Borough – $700 stolen; $600 damage (January 17, 2025, 3:00 a.m.)
•329 Route 10 East, East Hanover Township – $1,985.65 stolen (January 17, 2025, 3:45 a.m.)

The full investigation revealed $18,267.16 in stolen cash, $140 in stolen gift cards, and $10,000 in property damage across four counties.

Charges and Arrest

Bowman was charged on February 11 with:

  • 14 counts of third-degree burglary
  • 1 count of third-degree attempted burglary
  • 12 counts of third-degree theft
  • 2 counts of third-degree criminal mischief
  • 7 counts of fourth-degree criminal mischief

On Tuesday, February 25, Bowman surrendered to the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and was taken into custody without incident. He was remanded to the Bergen County Jail pending his first court appearance in Bergen County Superior Court.

Law enforcement officials praised the multi-jurisdictional efforts that led to Bowman’s identification and arrest, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in solving widespread criminal activities.

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.

Morris County Gears Up for 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade

By
Frank Cahill
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Grand Marshal Honored! Keith Wood, the 2025 Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal, proudly prepares to lead this year’s celebration of Irish heritage in Morristown on March 15.

MORRIS COUNTY — The 2025 Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade is fast approaching. It will bring a vibrant celebration of Irish heritage to the streets of Morristown on Saturday, March 15, with a noon kickoff.

This year’s Grand Marshal is Keith Wood, who will be honored at the Grand Marshal Reception on Friday, March 7, at The Mansion at Mountain Lakes. The evening will feature live music, dancing with the Druids, bagpipers, drummers, hors d’oeuvres, carving and pasta stations, and beer and wine. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased by clicking here.

Jack “Squire” Downs of Madison has been named the Starter for the parade.

Parade Route & Details

The parade will begin at Morristown Town Hall on South Street, proceeding toward The Green, and continuing along Washington Street to Morristown High School.

With thousands of spectators expected to line the streets, the event will showcase local pipe bands, Irish dancers, community groups, and first responders, making it a must-attend celebration.

For more details and updates, visit the official parade website at www.paradeday.com.

Out of the Box Physical Therapy Celebrates Grand Opening of Expanded Facility in Cedar Knolls

By
Frank Cahill
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Out of the Box Physical Therapy proudly unveils its newly expanded facility in Cedar Knolls, reaffirming its commitment to providing exceptional rehabilitation and recovery services to the Morris County community.

HANOVER – Out of the Box Physical Therapy, a leading family-owned outpatient orthopedic and sports clinic, celebrated the grand opening of its newly expanded facility in Cedar Knolls. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the clinic’s ongoing mission to provide high-quality, patient-centered care to the Morris Township and Parsippany communities. Out of the Box Physical Therapy is at 16 Wing Drive, Suite 203, Cedar Knolls.

Visitors gather at Out of the Box Physical Therapy’s newly expanded facility in Cedar Knolls to learn about the comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery services available to the Morris County community.

Dr. Hanna Sattler, owner and founder of Out of the Box Physical Therapy, expressed excitement about the new space, stating, “We’ve dreamt of having a sports-based physical therapy facility with enough room to truly serve athletes. This expansion allows us to enhance patient care and become a complete recovery service provider. Our mission has always been to provide personalized care and help as many people as possible, and this new space allows us to do just that.”

Comprehensive Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation

Out of the Box Physical Therapy specializes in:

  • Orthopedic physical therapy
  • Sports rehabilitation
  • Post-surgical recovery
  • Chronic pain management
  • Injury prevention and recovery for athletes

The clinic is known for its individualized treatment plans, expert clinicians, and dedication to patient success. Focusing on proactive and preventative care, Out of the Box Physical Therapy helps patients recover quickly and effectively, ensuring they can return to doing what they love.

Parsippany Residents Committed to Giving Back

Owners Dr. Jesse and Hanna Sattler, longtime residents of Parsippany, are looking forward to giving back to their community through expanded services, patient education, and wellness initiatives.

About Out of the Box Physical Therapy

For nearly a decade, Out of the Box Physical Therapy has served Morris County, helping individuals get stronger, healthier, and out of pain. Their patient-first approach focuses on identifying the root cause of health issues and delivering customized treatment plans that lead to faster, more effective recovery.

Out of the Box Physical Therapy offers wellness services for those seeking to maintain peak physical health and emergency recovery care for patients with injuries or chronic conditions.

For more information or to schedule an evaluation call (862) 260-9656, visit Out of the Box Physical Therapy’s newly expanded Cedar Knolls facility and experience top-tier rehabilitation and recovery services firsthand.

New Combined Property Tax Relief Application Now Available

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Division of Taxation has introduced a single application form for residents 65 and older or those receiving Social Security Disability benefits to apply for property tax relief programs, including Senior Freeze, ANCHOR, and Stay NJ. This streamlined application can be submitted online or by mail, simplifying the process for eligible homeowners. Once submitted, the Division of Taxation will review eligibility and provide applicants with a letter detailing the specific benefits they qualify for.

It is important to note that eligibility requirements, income limits, and benefits for all property tax relief programs are subject to change based on the State budget.

The Division of Taxation also offers telephone appointments for individuals and authorized representatives to receive guidance on Income Tax and Property Tax Relief Programs. Appointments are available during two time slots:

  • Morning: 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  • Afternoon: 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

A representative will call within the scheduled window. If the first call is unanswered, a second attempt will be made. A new appointment must be scheduled if the second attempt is also unanswered.

For more information or to apply, visit the New Jersey Division of Taxation website by clicking here.

2025 Budget Focuses: Public Safety, Human Services & Infrastructure

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners tonight introduced their 2025 Budget, which does not increase the tax rate for a sixth consecutive year. The budget focuses allocations on expanding public safety, meeting growing human services needs, and investing in education, roads, bridges, and county infrastructure.

“While we continue to deal with cost increases beyond the county’s control, we have again minimized the impact on our budget, and there will be no county tax rate increase for a sixth consecutive year.  Over the past 5 years, the average annual increase in inflation was 4.24 percent. Yet, we have kept our average annual budget growth to 2.89 percent,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith, chair of the Commissioners’ Budget Committee.

The proposed $376.6 million spending plan was presented to the full board by the Budget Committee, including Commissioners Doug Cabana and John Krickus. They underscored that the budget is fiscally responsible, structurally balanced, and compliant with state spending caps.

Click here to download the budget presentation.

Highlights in the budget include:

  • A combined $83 million towards public safety.
  • Nearly $25 million to support education programs, including increased allocations to the County College of Morris and the Morris County Vocational School District.
  • Continues a record $900,000 investment in Economic Development and Tourism, with $100,000 again earmarked for planning Morris County’s 250th anniversary celebration of the American Revolution.
  • $9.4 million to support the Morris County Park Commission, stewards of the largest county park system in New Jersey (20,455 acres of parkland)
  • $39.7 million for Human Services and Health Services, with continued funding for enhanced homeless prevention services and adding crucial staff to the Office on Aging and the Office of Temporary Assistance

“We are broadening our commitment to law and public safety, including investments in the equipment, software and AI technology that allows our Prosecutor’s Office to meet growing state mandates on the processing and storage of digital evidence generated by modern law enforcement efforts,” said Commissioner Cabana. “We also will continue funding for our Basic Life Support and Emergency Medical Service Units, which responded to more than 3,764 calls last year, and we have increased staff recruitment at our Communications Center, where the countywide interoperable radio system serves all of Morris County’s 39 towns and provides a long list of additional emergency support services to our residents.”

The 2025 Budget reinforces the county’s commitment to assisting the most vulnerable residents, particularly those facing homelessness. This year, the county will continue last year’s boost to emergency assistance funding for shelter and support services, which had been doubled to $300,000, with an additional $150,000 dedicated to homelessness prevention. The 2025 Budget also expands staff to expedite food assistance applications and to support the increasing number of families seeking caregiving services for aging relatives.

“In 2025, our budget will continue our commitment to the County College of Morris and the Morris County Vocational School District. We are increasing our allocation to CCM by $250,000 and placing $4.5 million in our capital budget toward building the new Center for Health Professions Building,” said Commissioner Krickus. “We also are increasing our allocation to Vo-tech by $175,000 in this budget, bringing the total increase over the past four years to $400,000 to support operations inside the new Career Training Center slated to open on the campus at CCM this fall.”

The 2025 Budget introduced last night also includes the 2025 Capital Spending Plan initially presented in December, which allocates nearly $36 million to many projects, including resurfacing roads, improving intersections, replacing bridges throughout the county, and maintaining county facilities.

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, March 26, to consider the final adoption of the 2025 budget.

Surrogate Heather Darling Launches Innovative Pet Therapy Program

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling welcomes therapy dog Mulligan to the Surrogate’s Court, bringing comfort and support to grieving families and court staff.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling is proud to introduce a new innovative pet therapy program at the Morris County Surrogate’s Court. The program is designed to comfort and support our grieving clients and assist our probate clerks who deal with grief daily. This significant initiative highlights the court’s commitment to fostering a compassionate environment for the families we serve and the dedicated professionals who guide them through complex emotional processes.

Recently, the program welcomed therapy dogs Mulligan and Story, whose calming presence has already made a powerful impact on clients and staff alike. For grieving clients, the dogs offer a soothing connection during one of life’s most challenging moments, providing comfort and even smiles amid their sorrow. For our hardworking probate clerks, who face the emotional weight of assisting grieving families daily, these comfort pets bring much-needed moments of relief and renewal, supporting their well-being as they perform their vital work.

Surrogate Darling is proud to bring this meaningful and beneficial resource to our community. The pets will visit the Surrogate’s Court each month throughout the year.

For more information about the Morris County Surrogate, click here.

CONDADO DE MORRIS – La Albacea del Condado de Morris, Heather Darling, introduce un innovador programa de terapia con mascotas

La Albacea del Condado de Morris, Heather Darling, se enorgullece de presentar un nuevo e innovador programa de terapia con mascotas en la Corte de Sucesiones del Condado de Morris. Este programa está diseñado para brindar consuelo y apoyo a nuestros clientes en duelo y ayudar a nuestros empleados de sucesiones, quienes lidian diariamente con el dolor de quienes han perdido a un ser querido. Esta importante iniciativa resalta el compromiso del tribunal de fomentar un ambiente compasivo tanto para las familias a las que servimos como para los profesionales dedicados que las guían a través de procesos emocionales complejos.

Recientemente, el programa dio la bienvenida a los perros de terapia Mulligan y Story, cuya presencia tranquilizadora ya ha tenido un impacto positivo en clientes y empleados. Para los clientes en duelo, estos perros ofrecen una conexión reconfortante en uno de los momentos más difíciles de la vida, brindando consuelo e incluso sacando algunas sonrisas en medio de su tristeza. Para nuestros dedicados empleados de sucesiones, que enfrentan diariamente el peso emocional de ayudar a familias en duelo, estas mascotas de apoyo proporcionan momentos de alivio y renovación, contribuyendo a su bienestar mientras desempeñan su importante labor.

La Albacea Darling se enorgullece de traer este recurso significativo y beneficioso a nuestra comunidad. Las mascotas visitarán la Corte de Sucesiones del Condado de Morris cada mes durante todo el año.

Para obtener más información sobre la Albacea del Condado de Morris, haz clic aquí.

Hanover Township Recreation Announces 2025 Community Event Schedule

By
Frank Cahill
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Township of Hanover

HANOVER – Residents of Hanover Township can look forward to an exciting year filled with community activities, celebrations, and outdoor fun as the Hanover Township Parks & Recreation Department has released its official 2025 Recreation Events Schedule. The schedule features a variety of events designed for all ages, from sports and concerts to holiday celebrations and family-friendly gatherings.

Upcoming Events and Key Dates

The year starts with Community Garden Renewals on January 1, allowing residents to renew their participation in this popular program. A Wrestling Trip to a Rutgers Match follows on January 26, allowing sports enthusiasts to enjoy top-tier college wrestling.

As spring approaches, the Community Garden opens to new members on February 3, and on March 3, all camp registrations open for the summer season. March also brings a Trip to the Philadelphia Flower Show on March 6, and the Bee Meadow Pool Registration opens on March 17.

One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Easter Event, takes place from April 14-17 at the Community Center. Families are encouraged to join in the festivities as spring blooms across Hanover Township.

Summer Fun and Seasonal Celebrations

Warm weather brings a series of engaging outdoor events, beginning with Touch-a-Truck at the Community Center on May 3. The Bee Meadow Pool opens for the season on May 23, just in time for summer fun.

Music lovers can enjoy a Concert at Bee Meadow Pool on June 6, while fishing enthusiasts can participate in the “Get Hooked on Fishing, Not Drugs” contest at Malapardis Pond on June 7.

July is filled with excitement, beginning with the Patriotic Celebration with Fireworks at the Municipal Complex on July 2, followed by the Traveling Teens Program starting on July 7. Residents can also enjoy a series of Summer Concerts throughout July, with performances scheduled for July 7, 14, 21, and 28.

To close out the summer, the Resorts World Catskill Matinee and Casino Trip is planned for July 30, and the Bee Meadow Pool closes for the season on September 1.

Fall and Winter Festivities

As autumn arrives, the township gears up for community celebrations, including Hanover Township Day at Malapardis Park on September 6, with a rain date of September 7.

On October 25, families can enjoy the Masquerade at Malapardis, a perfect way to celebrate the Halloween season.

The year concludes with festive holiday events, including Winter Wonderland at the Community Center on December 13 and the Hanukkah Hoopla on December 19.

Stay Updated on Hanover Township Events

The Hanover Township Parks & Recreation Department encourages residents to stay current as additional events may be added throughout the year. All events are subject to change, so residents should check the Township website regularly for the latest updates.

With a lineup filled with community traditions, family-friendly activities, and opportunities for residents to connect, Hanover Township’s 2025 Recreation Events promise to make the year one to remember!

Senate Passes Pennacchio Bill To Fund Fusion Energy

By
Frank Cahill
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Senator Joe Pennachio

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Senate passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) to allow fusion energy projects to receive funding from the Clean Energy Fund.

“Fusion energy is rapidly transitioning from scientific theory to real-world application,” said Senator Pennacchio. “This revolutionary energy source has the potential to provide a zero-carbon sustainable future, and this bill will help direct critical funds for its research and development. By classifying fusion energy as a Class I renewable and unlocking investment, New Jersey can position itself as a global leader in fusion technology, helping restore America’s energy dominance once again.”

Nuclear fusion is a naturally occurring process that powers stars, and if harnessed on Earth, it could generate limitless clean energy. Senator Pennacchio’s bill, S-364, would classify fusion energy as a Class I renewable, making fusion projects eligible for financial assistance from New Jersey’s Clean Energy Fund.

Senator Pennacchio has been a leading advocate for fusion energy, sponsoring several bill packages intended to establish New Jersey as the epicenter of its research and development. Most recently, in 2024, the Senate Economic Growth committee passed S-366 to allow fusion energy and technology companies to receive benefits under certain economic incentive programs.

You can read the full bill by clicking here.

CONDADO DE MORRIS – El Senado de Nueva Jersey aprueba legislación bipartidista para financiar proyectos de energía de fusión

El Senado de Nueva Jersey aprobó una legislación bipartidista patrocinada por el senador Joe Pennacchio (R-26) que permitirá que los proyectos de energía de fusión reciban financiamiento del Fondo de Energía Limpia.

“La energía de fusión está avanzando rápidamente de la teoría científica a la aplicación en el mundo real”, dijo el senador Pennacchio. “Esta fuente de energía revolucionaria tiene el potencial de proporcionar un futuro sostenible sin emisiones de carbono, y este proyecto de ley ayudará a dirigir fondos críticos para su investigación y desarrollo. Al clasificar la energía de fusión como una fuente renovable de Clase I y desbloquear inversiones, Nueva Jersey puede posicionarse como un líder global en tecnología de fusión, ayudando a restaurar nuevamente el dominio energético de Estados Unidos”.

La fusión nuclear es un proceso natural que alimenta las estrellas, y si se logra aprovechar en la Tierra, podría generar energía limpia e ilimitada. El proyecto de ley del senador Pennacchio, S-364, clasificaría la energía de fusión como una fuente renovable de Clase I, lo que permitiría que los proyectos de fusión sean elegibles para recibir asistencia financiera del Fondo de Energía Limpia de Nueva Jersey.

El senador Pennacchio ha sido un firme defensor de la energía de fusión, patrocinando varios paquetes legislativos con el objetivo de establecer a Nueva Jersey como el epicentro de su investigación y desarrollo. Recientemente, en 2024, el Comité de Crecimiento Económico del Senado aprobó el proyecto de ley S-366, que permite a las empresas de energía de fusión y tecnología recibir beneficios bajo ciertos programas de incentivos económicos.

First Presbyterian Church of Whippany Hosts Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser

By
Frank Cahill
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File photo. For illustration purposes.

HANOVER – The First Presbyterian Church of Whippany is inviting the community to an evening of delicious food and fellowship at their All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event will take place at the church, located at 494 Route 10, Whippany, NJ 07981.

The fundraiser offers an affordable dining experience. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for children and seniors. The meal includes unlimited spaghetti with marinara sauce, a side of garlic bread, and a choice of beverage. Proceeds from the event will support youth programs and community outreach initiatives organized by the church.

“This dinner is more than just a meal—it’s a way to unite the community while supporting a great cause,” said an event organizer. “We encourage everyone to join us, whether you’re coming for the food, the company, or to support our youth programs.”

In addition to a hearty dinner, attendees will learn more about the church’s youth activities and upcoming events. The First Presbyterian Church of Whippany has been a community pillar, fostering engagement and support through its various programs.

For those interested in attending, reservations or orders can be made at youthfpcwhippany.org. Whether dining in or taking meals to go, all are welcome to participate in this special evening.

Mark your calendars and bring your appetite—the Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser promises to be a delightful and meaningful event for all who attend!

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