Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
MORRIS COUNTY — A 62-year-old Denville Township man, Mark Johnson, was arrested following a hit-and-run crash in the Cedar Lake area on Saturday, July 13, according to a release from the Denville police.
The investigation revealed that Johnson was under the influence at the time of the crash. He has been charged with driving under the influence and issued summonses for reckless driving, careless driving, failure to maintain lane, safety glass requirement, leaving the scene of an accident, and failure to report an accident.
Johnson was released pending a court appearance.
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.
CCM’s Data Science Expansion Funded by $650,000 NSF Grant
MORRIS COUNTY — The County College of Morris (CCM) was awarded a $650,000 Advanced Technology Education (ATE) grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The grant, distributed over three years, will support the college’s expansion of its nationally recognized Data Science program and aid in the establishment of a new, cutting-edge Data Science Institute. This initiative aligns with the college’s commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and meeting the evolving needs of the community and industry.
Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, president of CCM, thanked NSF for the grant and emphasized its significance in advancing the college’s mission. “Not only will this grant enable us to expand Data Science at CCM,” said Iacono, “but also help create the Data Science Institute and strive to meet our goals from the training of faculty with industry certification to creating a seamless career pathway in data science for students of all ages.”
Key Benefits
CCM allows students to gain an early interest in the data science field. One prominent feature of this opportunity is a fast-track approach toward employment. The college’s Center for Workforce Development offers cutting-edge Business Analytics, Tableau, R-Programming courses, and more to accelerate one’s career. Students can enroll at CCM to earn the 16-credit certificate of achievement in data analytics in less than one year. Then, students can further their studies at CCM towards an AS in computer science with a concentration in data science.
The ATE grant will support teachers in ensuring they attain industry-recognized certifications. The grant also works towards equipping teachers with the latest tools and knowledge in data science to deliver excellent instruction. Students may gain training and specialized workshops on data manipulation, statistical analysis, machine learning, data visualization, and more on campus and in virtual format. Guest lecturers, industry visits, and networking events will showcase real-world data science applications and help funnel students to industry.
Recent Events
Most recently, the college’s Data Science program has participated in the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC) Pathways Initiative, which includes the New Jersey Big Data Alliance (NJBDA)—Data Science Articulation Project. This project establishes seamless transfer pathways from several two-year to four-year institutions across New Jersey, including CCM.
Iacono says, “CCM will continue to be a leader in education and data science plus play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and technological advancement in the region.”
“This grant represents a significant milestone for the college,” said CCM Professor of Mathematics Kelly Fitzpatrick. “We are excited to embark on this journey of expansion and innovation, and we are confident that the resources provided by this grant will empower our faculty and students, including underrepresented groups and Women in STEM, to excel in the dynamic field of data science.”
The County College of Morris’s success in Data Science has been highlighted and publicized nationally.
The New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA) featured this project on the March 23 episode of Minding Your Business, where Fitzpatrick spoke about its success.
NSF featured the college’s courses, transfer agreements, and pathways in Data Science in its annual publication, ATE Impacts, on page 88.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — The Rockaway Valley Garden Club (RVGC) has honored three exemplary Mountain Lakes High School students with the prestigious Arlene Persson Memorial Scholarship for their significant contributions to horticultural and environmental activities.
Scholarship Recipients and Their Contributions:
Ryan Lalani – Awarded $1,500
Achievements:
Outstanding horticultural projects for town and school gardens
Leadership of the Environmental Club
Student liaison to the Mountain Lakes Borough Environmental Commission
Environmental studies and projects within the N.J. Governors STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Scholar Program
Alexandra Ananian – Awarded $1,000
Achievements:
Revitalization of the Boonton Township Elementary School garden
Organization of the first Boonton Township Green Fair in collaboration with the Boonton Township Green Team and the community
Yash Samat – Awarded $1,000
Achievements:
Trex Project for collecting plastic for recycling
Student liaison on the Mountain Lakes Lakes Management Advisory Committee
Leading an environmental community project to create fish habitats in lakes to preserve the ecosystem and reduce algae levels
About the Scholarship
The Arlene Persson Memorial Scholarship is awarded to students from seven local high schools and the County College of Morris who have shown dedication and effort in horticultural and environmental initiatives within their schools or communities. The scholarship commemorates Arlene Persson, a founding member of the Rockaway Valley Garden Club in 1955, who significantly contributed to the club and the community by promoting the importance of gardening and environmental stewardship.
Rockaway Valley Garden Club Activities
In addition to its scholarship program, the RVGC fosters gardening interests and knowledge among its members and the broader community. Key activities include:
Planting and maintaining the Wildflower Trail at Tourne Park
Conducting mini-workshops at Fallsview Rehabilitation and Nursing
Maintaining gardens at historic sites Miller-Kingsland and Oscar Kincaid
The RVGC continues to honor Arlene Persson’s legacy by engaging in community outreach and environmental education, ensuring the continued importance of gardening and ecological consciousness in the community.
For membership information, contact Joanne Ludwig at marinobiondo@aol.com.
Enjoy The Nerds Live at Malapardis Park in Cedar Knolls
HANOVER — Hanover Township Recreation has announced that the Monday, July 22 concert will now occur at Malapardis Park in Cedar Knolls. The event will feature the high-energy, FUNtastic band, The Nerds. The concert begins at 7:00 p.m., with the band playing the first set from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and a second set from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
During the concert, the Knights of Columbus will collect food for the Inter-Faith Food Pantry, and Boy Scout Troop #155 will have beverages and snacks available for purchase.
Parking is conveniently located across the street from the park at 210 Malapardis Road. The park offers a complimentary shuttle bus service and handicapped parking.
This concert is free of charge, made possible by the generosity of our sponsors, whom we encourage you to support:
A Party Pleasing Rental
Arden Courts – ProMedica Memory Care
Celebrity Motor Cars LLC
DM Airports/MMU
Dosch King Co.
Duck Donuts
Everlast Floors
Hartz Mountain
Hotworx
Knights of Columbus Elizabeth Ann Seton Council 6904
Mimi’s Too
Pearly Whites
Planet Fitness
Preferred Business Systems
Name Sponsor: Wegmans
For more information, don’t hesitate to contact Denise M. Brennan, Superintendent of Recreation & Parks Administration, Hanover Township, at (973) 428-2463.
Julian Morris is 31 year old black male.
5'6" 160 Pounds
DOVER — As previously reported in Morris Focus, Julian Morris, a member of the Dover High School Graduate Class of 2011, has been identified by the Birmingham Police Department as a person of interest. (Click here to read the previous article.)
Julian’s attorney, Victor Revill, Esq., issued the following press release on his client’s behalf.
“Mr. Morris is a college-educated veteran who faithfully served his country as a Marine. He has no prior misdemeanor or felony convictions. Despite the false narratives that are being promulgated about him in this situation, he loved Deundray Cottrell and is currently grieving the death of his beloved one. Mr. Morris wants answers as well and is awaiting those answers after a thorough investigation has been completed. Under the advice of counsel, he will not be giving any further statements at this time.”
Editors Note: Mr. Revill did send Morris Focus a video showing Deundray Cottrell running through yards on the night of July 4, and Julian was nowhere in sight. The video indicates that Deundray was running from someone. Unfortunately, we cannot republish the video due to copyright infringement.Click here to watch the video.
Kassandra Stafford is organizing this fundraiser. She states, “Our family has suffered a profound tragedy. Julian’s beloved boyfriend of several years, Deundray Cottrell, was found dead in a shed near his sister’s home in Birmingham, Alabama. His death has been ruled a homicide, and we are beyond devastated.
Adding to our grief, the Birmingham Police Department has identified Julian as a person of interest. This has brought unwarranted attention and speculation, with people stating opinions as facts. Social media has only fueled these narratives, forgetting that the investigation is still ongoing.
We cannot mourn the loss of Deundray, whom we considered family, as we continually face accusations and innuendo. Julian has retained an attorney to protect his safety and well-being while the police search for answers.
Anyone who knows Julian knows that he is a caring and loving person. He is deeply suffering from the loss of Deundray and is unable to express his grief openly. As legal fees mount, we are reaching out for your support. We have established this fundraiser to help cover Julian’s legal expenses. Your contributions will not only help ensure Julian receives the legal representation he needs but will also help us find some stability amid the turmoil.
Any contribution, no matter the size, will be greatly appreciated. Your support and generosity will make a significant difference and help provide us with the strength to endure this ordeal.
Thank you for your kindness and understanding during this challenging time.”
DOVER — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Town of Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney confirmed that Rony Oviedo-Buezo, 32, of Nashville, Tennessee, has been charged with acts of Aggravated Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child, that occurred in Dover.
It is alleged that the defendant performed multiple sexual acts with a female child. The incidents remain under investigation, and no further information will be released.
As a result of the investigation, the defendant has been charged with two counts of first degree Aggravated Sexual Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(a)(1), one count of second degree Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1(a)/2C:14-2(a)(1), one count of second degree Sexual Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2(b), one count of second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child Sexual Conduct in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4(a)(1), and one count of second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child Abuse/Neglect in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4(a)(2).
The defendant was apprehended in Tennessee and subsequently extradited to New Jersey. Under the Criminal Justice Reform Act, the defendant has been detained in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending future court proceedings.
Numerous law enforcement agencies have participated in this investigation, including members of the Town of Dover Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.
Anyone with information about this case can call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes Child Endangerment Unit at (973) 285-6200.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite these accusations, this defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
DOVER — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and East Hanover Police Chief Christopher Cannizzo confirmed an ongoing investigation involving the death of a six-month-old infant in East Hanover.
On July 17, 2024, at approximately 1:30 p.m., officers from the East Hanover Police Department responded to a parking lot in South Ridgedale Avenue at Route 10 for a 911 call of a pediatric patient in a parked vehicle. Paramedics attempted to render lifesaving aid to a six-month-old female infant. The infant was subsequently pronounced deceased at the hospital. The victim’s mother was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
At this time, preliminary information indicates the child was left unattended in the vehicle before death. A final determination as to the cause and manner of the child’s death remains pending.
As this incident remains under investigation, no further comment will be made.
The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, East Hanover Police Department, and Morris County Sheriff’s Office are conducting a thorough investigation.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200, or the East Hanover Police Department at 973-887-0432.
Morristown Employee Sparks Outrage with Controversial Facebook Post. Photo credit: Facebook
MORRIS COUNTY — An update to a story that first appeared in Morris Focus on July 16, titled “Community Condemns Morristown Worker’s Post on Trump Assassination.” Click here to read previous story.
Morristown has taken unspecified “disciplinary action” against Tia Ellzey, a town employee, for a “reckless and needlessly divisive” comment posted on her Facebook page after the weekend assassination attempt on Donald Trump.
The employee, Tia Ellzey, had posted: “The shooter had ONE job,” accompanied by an eye-rolling emoji.
“Political violence like the attempted assassination of former President Trump goes against the bedrock principles of our American democracy and should never be tolerated or condoned by anyone, much less a public employee who is tasked with representing the values of our community,” town Administrator Jillian Barrick said in a statement Wednesday.
“This employee’s post on social media was reckless and needlessly divisive, and it does not reflect the views of our municipal government. As soon as we became aware of the employee’s statement, we took immediate disciplinary action to clarify that this kind of conduct is unacceptable. We cannot comment further because this is a personnel matter, but I want residents to rest assured that we take this issue seriously.”
Personal postings can run afoul of the municipality’s social media policy, according to a copy provided by the Morristown Clerk’s office:
Inappropriate postings that may include discriminatory remarks, harassment, threats of violence, or other similarly inappropriate or unlawful conduct will not be tolerated and may subject individuals to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
Ultimately, individuals are solely responsible for what he/she posts online. Before creating online content, consider some of the risks and rewards involved. Keep in mind that any conduct that adversely affects job performance, the performance of fellow employees or otherwise adversely affects the Town, its partners, and its constituents may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Andrew DeLaney, an attorney and member of Morristown’s Municipal Republican Committee, told Morris Focus he thinks Ellzey should publicly retract her statement–or be fired.
“There is no place in a public position for someone advocating for a President’s assassination. This incident underscores the deep decline in the standards of our country and its public officials. There is no excuse for this,” stated Morristown Attorney Andrew DeLaney.
Parsippany resident Joey McCormick said “Amazing because you would think promoting killing while being employed by a municipality that would be immediate termination or indefinite suspension.. nope.”
“What a piece of sh!!! She should be fired… no perks.. she should receive nothing!! Let’s hope and pray she doesn’t have children and she’s not breeding this level of absolutely toxic behavior! It takes a sick person to wish for assassination! Honestly, it’s this type of mentality that’s twisted our world! Sadly it’s more than just her!” said Hanover resident Jessica Karamolegos.
Samantha DeNunzio did not agree with Morris Focus’s release of the original article. She said, “I do not agree or like this woman’s post, but I am fuming that you find it appropriate to share this woman’s name and picture! Now, what about HER safety?!? You don’t think some Trumpster will go after her somehow??!? Uncool.” In response to Samantha DeNunzio, Morris Focus reader Jan Mahoney stated, “She’s the one that’s putting herself at risk by making a statement like that on public social media.”
Former President Trump sustained a wound to his ear, one rally attendee was killed, and two others were injured. Authorities killed the shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel, PA, who was on a warehouse rooftop overlooking the event.
Dover Councilman Geovani Estacio, Councilman Sergio Rodriguez, Mayor James Dodd, Patricia Acevedo, MSN, A-GNP-C, Eddie, and Dover Focus Publisher Frank Cahill were present as Patricia cut the ribbon. Photo by ShopMorrisCounty
DOVER — The Health & Wellness Center proudly celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, July 13, attended by community members, local officials, and wellness enthusiasts. The event marks the beginning of a new chapter in promoting health and wellness within the community. Patricia Acevedo, MSN, A-GNP-C, owns the Health & Wellness Center located at Two East Blackwell Street.
Acevedo’s story began in the suburbs of Mexico City, where she and her sister were raised by their grandmother, who worked in a hospital kitchen, and her uncle, a cook. Her early ambitions ranged from attending a prestigious Mexican university to becoming a mechanical engineer and a professional woman. However, her journey into motherhood and prevailing cultural beliefs about female education at the time sidetracked her plans.
At 19, Acevedo moved to Dover, but unexpected circumstances led her back to Mexico. She made the difficult decision to return to Dover without her children to pursue her education and make them proud.
Feeling as though God had given her a second chance, Acevedo landed her first job as a staff nurse at a local hospital. “I saw the work of nurses who inspired me to become one. They reminded me of my grandmother,” she recalled. She earned her GED, received English tutoring at home, and was accepted into the County College of Morris nursing program, graduating in 2005. She even found a new love, Eddie, at the local hospital, who supported her and her dreams.
To become a visiting nurse at the local hospital, Acevedo needed to achieve her BSN, which she did in 2015 through the University of Saint Elizabeth. She was the speaker of her graduating class, with all her children cheering her on. “That was the moment I dreamt of,” Acevedo said. “That day, I made another promise… master’s degree, here I come.”
Acevedo felt supported immediately after applying to and being accepted by Seton Hall. She named faculty like Joyce Maglione and Eileen Moran as nursing leaders she admired and who believed in her. “The place I thought I could never attend now became my home. I was not going to disappoint them,” she said. “The skills I received at Seton Hall gave me the courage to care for my community. I felt confident as I received a high-quality education to implement in my daily process.”
Despite obstacles like the COVID-19 pandemic, Acevedo persevered and graduated in 2021. Along the way, she dreamt of creating a place for people to visit, be nurtured, be educated, and feel safe. “I knew God had plans for me, but I didn’t know what the plans were,” she said. After reflecting on her life and legacy, she began her career as a nurse practitioner, eventually landing positions in three different practices while keeping two per diem nursing roles.
As Acevedo focused on gaining skills and knowledge, she and her husband, Eddie, worked on a plan to open her practice. Though rare in New Jersey, Acevedo knew many nurse practitioner-run practices and wanted to join them. Despite challenges—from finding a location to securing business collaborators—she launched the Health and Wellness Center of NJ in Dover.
Patricia Acevedo’s Journey Culminates in the Grand Opening of Dover Health Center
Acevedo hopes to see her business expand across New Jersey, making it a desired workplace for fellow nurse practitioners and a main resource in various areas. “One day, I will offer scholarships to adults who didn’t have the opportunity to become educated and wish to be in health care,” she said.
To current students and other healthcare professionals, Acevedo shared, “Not everyone understands the role of the nurse practitioner; thus, it’s our responsibility to educate them.” She urges others to find a supportive team to help turn their dreams into tangible goals. “Your dream is yours. Stay focused on your goals, and don’t let other people’s opinions or lack of knowledge make you doubt yourself,” she advised.
Acevedo’s story is a great triumph, showcasing how she built her future with determination and faith. Her journey proves her resilience and exemplifies the power of perseverance. Inspired by Frank Sinatra’s words, Acevedo exclaims, “The best revenge is a massive success, and I did it my way.”
You can reach Patricia Acevedo, MSN, A-GNP-C, by calling (973) 939-1150.
MORRIS COUNTY — Join the Denville Volunteer Fire Department for their Inaugural Clam Bake on Saturday, August 17, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Fireman’s Field, located at the Main Street Firehouse, 2 Indian Road, Denville. This event promises a fun-filled day with delicious food, drinks, and community spirit.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, August 17
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Fireman’s Field, Main Street Firehouse, 2 Indian Road, Denville.
Tickets and Inclusions:
Price: $60.00 per ticket
Food: Two dozen steamers, fried shrimp, chicken fingers, hamburgers, hotdogs, French fries, and corn on the cob.
Extras: Each ticket includes a mug and unlimited beverages.
Raffle: Every attendee enters a raffle to win a 30-inch Blackstone flat-top grill.
How to Purchase Tickets:
By Phone: Call Chief Sampson at (973) 809-6940.
In Person: Visit any of the three fire stations on Monday nights between 7:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. during their weekly maintenance:
Main Street Firehouse: 2 Indian Road (corner of Route 53 and Indian Road, across from ACME)
Union Hill Firehouse: 390 Franklin Road (next to the Exxon on Route 10 West, across from Quick Chek)
Valleyview Firehouse: 2 River Road (corner of River Road and Diamond Spring Road, across from Valleyview Middle School)
Tickets are required for entry, so get yours through any of these convenient options and join us for a fantastic day of food, fun, and community!
