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Jefferson Township Board of Education Announces Scot Burkholder as Next Superintendent

By
Frank Cahill
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Scot Burkholder has been selected as the next Superintendent of Jefferson Township Public Schools. Burkholder brings more than two decades of educational leadership experience and will officially assume the role on July 1, 2026.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Board of Education announced its intention to appoint Scot Burkholder as the next Superintendent of Jefferson Township Public Schools, effective July 1, 2026.

The appointment was scheduled for approval at the Board’s regular meeting on Monday, June 15, following a comprehensive superintendent search conducted with assistance from the New Jersey School Boards Association.

According to the Board, the search process focused on identifying a leader with a strong commitment to academic excellence, strategic vision, and the ability to guide the district into the future. Following multiple rounds of interviews and a review of a highly qualified candidate pool, Board members selected Burkholder to lead the district.

“His experience, leadership qualities, and dedication to student success align with our mission to cultivate positive, contributing members of both our local and global communities,” the Board stated.

Burkholder joins Jefferson Township after spending 11 years with Wayne Township Public Schools, where he served as both a principal and Director of Federal, State, and Special Programs. Since 2018, he has worked as a central office administrator, collaborating with principals, counselors, nurses, intervention teachers, and other educational professionals to support student achievement.

Burkholder was approved for a three-year contract from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029, with a 2.6% salary increase each year.

The salary for each school year is as follows:

2026–2027: $200,000

2027–2028: $205,200

2028–2029: $210,535

During his tenure in Wayne, Burkholder also served in several districtwide leadership roles, including Anti-Bullying Coordinator, Homeless Liaison, DCPP Liaison, District Testing Coordinator, Residency Coordinator, Grants Administrator, and Affirmative Action Officer.

Prior to his work in Wayne, Burkholder spent 15 years with Plainfield Public Schools, serving as a teacher, vice principal, and principal.

Burkholder earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical, Health, and Adapted Education from West Virginia University and a Master of Science degree in Educational Administration from University of Scranton. He has also completed advanced leadership studies, including the School Turnaround Leaders program through the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

His professional accomplishments include receiving a citation from the New Jersey Legislature for educational commitment and being recognized as a “Hero of the Pandemic” by former Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill.

A resident of the Highlands region, Burkholder said he understands Jefferson Township’s strong sense of community and commitment to educational excellence. He believes that effective instruction and meaningful professional development provide the foundation for student success and that every child can thrive when given the proper support and opportunities.

The Board thanked residents, parents, staff members, and community stakeholders who participated in surveys and public input sessions throughout the search process.

With Burkholder’s appointment, Jefferson Township Public Schools begins a new chapter of leadership focused on building upon the district’s strengths while continuing to expand opportunities for students, staff, and families.

Sparta EMT Dies Following Jefferson Motorcycle Crash

By
Frank Cahill
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Jonathan Kressman, 24, of Sparta, is remembered for his dedication to serving others as an Emergency Medical Technician with Atlantic Mobile Health. Kressman died following a motorcycle crash on Route 15 North in Jefferson Township on June 14. As an organ donor, his final act of service will help save and improve the lives of others through the NJ Sharing Network.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — A 24-year-old Sparta man who was critically injured in a motorcycle crash on Route 15 North in Jefferson Township has died from his injuries.

Jonathan Kressman was discovered on the roadway after his motorcycle went down near Edison Road at approximately 2:56 a.m. on Sunday, June 14. Officers Evan May, Michael DeRosa and Matthew Johnson of the Jefferson Township Police Department responded to the scene and immediately began lifesaving measures before advanced medical personnel arrived.

Kressman was flown to Morristown Medical Center for treatment.

According to police, the crash remains under investigation by the Jefferson Township Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Crash Unit.

Township police were assisted at the scene by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Crash Unit, Jefferson Township Rescue Squad, Jefferson Township Fire Company No. 2, and St. Clare’s EMS.

Kressman served as an Emergency Medical Technician with Atlantic Mobile Health. A GoFundMe campaign established following his death described him as a dedicated healthcare provider whose commitment to serving others left a lasting impression on patients, colleagues and the communities he served.

“Jonathan’s commitment to serving his community, compassion for his patients, and dedication to his colleagues made a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working alongside him,” the fundraiser states.

Kressman primarily provided emergency medical care throughout Sussex County, including Hamburg, Vernon, Sussex, Wantage, Lafayette, Branchville, Sandyston, Montague and Newton.

The fundraiser also noted that Kressman was an organ donor and that his final act of service would be through organ donation to the NJ Sharing Network.

According to a social media post from Fire & EMS Alerts of Hunterdon & Warren County, Kressman joined Atlantic Mobile Health in June 2024 through the organization’s EMT Academy, earned his EMT certification in October 2024, and most recently worked full-time on BLS 297.

In a tribute posted on social media, RMC Performance, a motorcycle repair shop in Newton, remembered Kressman as a valued customer and passionate motorcycle enthusiast.

Anyone with information regarding the crash is asked to contact Traffic Safety Officer Charles Paskas of the Jefferson Township Police Department at [email protected].

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Click here to donate to his GoFundMe page. Any funds raised will go to Jon’s family to help cover any outstanding medical, funeral, or other expenses they may incur with his passing.

Mia Zirpoli Named to University of Alabama Dean’s List for Spring 2026

By
Frank Cahill
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Mia Zirpoli, a 2024 graduate of Hanover Park High School

FLORHAM PARK — Mia Zirpoli has been named to the Dean’s List at The University of Alabama for the Spring 2026 semester.

A total of 14,306 students enrolled during the Spring 2026 semester earned recognition on either the Dean’s List or President’s List. Students named to the Dean’s List achieved a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, while students on the President’s List earned a perfect 4.0 grade point average.

The University of Alabama’s Dean’s and President’s Lists recognize full-time undergraduate students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement. Graduate students and undergraduate students carrying less than a full course load are not eligible for the honor.

Located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, The University of Alabama is the flagship institution of the University of Alabama System. The university offers more than 200 degree programs and is recognized for its teaching, research, and service. Through more than 30 research centers, the institution advances innovation and discovery while serving as a major driver of economic growth in Alabama and beyond.

Zirpoli’s academic achievement reflects a strong commitment to excellence and places her among the university’s top-performing students for the semester.

Jersey City Woman Charged After Alleged Assault on Officer During Denville Traffic Stop

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

DENVILLE — A Jersey City woman was charged after police said she kicked an officer during a traffic stop on Route 46 East.

The incident occurred at approximately 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 12, when Denville police stopped a vehicle being driven with a completely flat rear passenger-side tire, creating what officers described as an unsafe condition.

Police identified the driver as Jaelynn Richardson, 23, of Jersey City.

During the investigation, officers determined the vehicle had been reported stolen out of New York and that Richardson’s driver’s license was suspended, according to police.

When officers attempted to place Richardson under arrest, she allegedly became combative and kicked one of the officers.

Richardson was taken into custody and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing. She was charged with receiving stolen property and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.

She was also issued motor vehicle summonses for driving with a suspended license and operating an unsafe vehicle.

Richardson was released pending a court appearance in Morris County Superior Court.

Mosquito Spraying Scheduled in Three Morris County Communities

By
Frank Cahill
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file Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Mosquito Commission has scheduled mosquito control treatments for Thursday, June 18, in response to an increase in adult mosquito populations in several areas of the county.

Weather permitting, spraying will take place between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. in wooded areas of Morris Plains, East Hanover, and Hanover Township. Crews will use all-terrain vehicles to conduct the treatments.

The scheduled treatment areas include:

Morris Plains: Jim Fear Drive
East Hanover: Ridgedale Avenue near the athletic field
Hanover Township: South Jefferson Road near the Central Park skate rink

According to the commission, applicators may use Anvil 2+2, which contains the active ingredient sumithrin, or Zenivex E4, which contains the active ingredient etofenprox.

Residents with questions or seeking additional information may contact the Morris County Mosquito Commission at (973) 285-6450 or visit the commission’s website.

Boonton to Launch SafetyStick Pilot Program on Main Street

By
Frank Cahill
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BOONTON — The Town of Boonton will launch a SafetyStick pilot program beginning in July 2026 on Main Street, using solar-powered bollards designed to help improve pedestrian safety and reduce illegal parking in designated no-parking areas.

According to the town, the SafetySticks will capture photographic evidence of possible parking violations, including the date, time and location. The information will be securely transmitted to the Boonton Police Department for review. Officials emphasized that no citations will be issued automatically. A summons will only be mailed to the registered vehicle owner if police confirm that a violation occurred.  

The program is intended to improve visibility at crosswalks and intersections by keeping restricted areas clear for pedestrians, motorists and emergency access. The town said the devices will initially be placed in high-priority areas along Main Street where no-parking zones are frequently violated.  

As part of the rollout, Boonton will also designate the first two parking spaces on each 100 block off Main Street as delivery-only parking from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. daily. Outside those hours, the spaces will be available for 15-minute parking to support quick customer visits and downtown access.  

The town said SafetyStick uses solar power and radar technology to detect vehicles that stop or park illegally in restricted zones. The town also stated that the system captures images of license plates and violations only, and does not record personal images or audio.  

Boonton officials said the goal of the pilot program is safety, not revenue generation, and that visible signage and community outreach will accompany the launch.

Hanover Township Announces Commemorative Medallions and Coins for Whippany’s 350th Anniversary

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Hanover Township is pleased to announce the availability of commemorative medallions and coins in celebration of Whippany’s 350th anniversary. Spearheaded by Committeeman Ronald F. Francioli, Committeeman Brian J. Cahill, and the Landmark Commission, these collectibles mark a significant milestone in the community’s history and are available for purchase by Township residents.

Commemorative Medallion:
The medallion is limited-edition, with only 150 produced. It is 2-1/2 inches in diameter and 3/16 inch thick with a lustrous antique bronze finish. The front of the die-struck medallion features a raised Township of Hanover seal, while the reverse is inscribed, “Celebrating its 350th Anniversary, 1676 – 2026.” The medallion’s edge is engraved with Committeeman Francioli’s initials, “RFF,” along with its unique number in the limited series. Each medallion is presented in a quality yellow-and-red felt-lined gift box.

Commemorative Coin:
The commemorative coin is a smaller, die-struck collectible. It is approximately the size of a United States half dollar and features an antique nickel-silver finish. Like the medallion, the coin is adorned with the Township seal on one side and the inscription “Celebrating its 350th Anniversary, 1676 – 2026” on the other. Each coin is packaged in a protective plastic sleeve that includes information about the veteran-owned small business that produced the collectibles.

How to Purchase:
The medallion and coin are available for purchase at the General Office in the Hanover Township Municipal Building, located at 1000 Route 10, Whippany, NJ 07981-0250. The General Office is open Monday – Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Friday, 8:00 a.m to 1:00 p.m.
Medallions are $35.00 each, and coins are $6.00 each. Purchases may be made by cash (exact change required) or personal check. Due to limited availability, medallions are restricted to one per person. For additional information, please call (973) 428-2500.

The Township is celebrating Whippany’s 350th anniversary throughout the year! To learn about upcoming anniversary events and initiatives, click here.

Boonton Man Charged with DWI, Drug Possession After Falling Asleep at Wheel in Parsippany Walgreens Parking Lot

By
Frank Cahill
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Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

BOONTON — A 49-year-old Boonton man faces a DWI charge along with drug possession and paraphernalia charges after Parsippany-Troy Hills police found him asleep behind the wheel of a car that was slowly rolling through the Walgreens parking lot on Baldwin Road earlier this month.

According to a Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department report, Patrolman Christopher Yi and Patrolman Kyratzsis responded to 200-1 Baldwin Road around 4:43 p.m. on June 6 after a report of a man asleep at the wheel of a vehicle that was rolling out of the lot. When officers arrived, they found a black 2002 Volvo S60 with smoke coming from it and the driver, later identified as Laoufi Meghdir, behind the wheel. The vehicle was in drive and moving slowly, and police said Meghdir appeared confused and disoriented.

As Yi approached on foot, the car began moving forward again, the report states. Yi ordered Meghdir to stop, knocked on the window and directed him to shut off the vehicle and step out, which he did. Parsippany fire crews arrived on scene around the same time.

Police said Meghdir could not give a clear account of what had happened. Yi reported observing bloodshot, watery eyes and detecting the odor of alcohol once Meghdir stepped away from the car. When asked if he had been drinking that day, Meghdir told officers he had been drinking the day before and might still be feeling the effects, according to the report. He also told police he did not have a driver’s license and went to the car to retrieve his passport instead.

Yi then conducted a series of standardized field sobriety tests. According to the report, Meghdir showed all six indicators of impairment on the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus eye test, along with vertical gaze nystagmus in both eyes. During the Walk and Turn test, he took several extra steps before turning, stepped off the line and lost his balance, using his arms for balance throughout. On the One Leg Stand test, he was unable to keep his foot raised and put it down five times before the officer ended the test.

Meghdir was placed under arrest for DWI and handcuffed. A search incident to arrest turned up nothing, police said. He was then transported to the Denville Police Department, with Patrolman Scott Baker following to administer an Alcotest, as Parsippany’s unit was out of service. According to Baker’s supplemental report, the test was administered after a 20-minute observation period and two valid breath samples were obtained, returning a result of 0.24 percent blood-alcohol content — three times New Jersey’s legal limit of 0.08 percent.

Meghdir was brought back to Parsippany-Troy Hills police headquarters for processing. After officers contacted the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Assistant Prosecutor Meg Rodriguez recommended the drug-related charges be handled by summons rather than custodial charges. Meghdir was fingerprinted and issued the following summonses:

  • Summons #1429-S-2026-000184 — N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1), Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
  • Summons #1429-S-2026-000184 — N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (with intent to use)
  • Summons #E26-005674 — N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, Driving While Intoxicated; court date July 14, 2026, 2:30 p.m.
  • Summons #E26-005675 — N.J.S.A. 39:4-51B, Open Container of Alcohol/Unsealed Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle; court date July 14, 2026, 2:30 p.m.
  • Summons #E26-005676 — N.J.S.A. 39:4-96, Reckless Driving; court date July 14, 2026, 2:30 p.m.
  • Summons #E26-005677 — N.J.S.A. 39:3-29A, Failure to Possess a Driver’s License; $181 penalty, payable by June 20, 2026

Meghdir was held at police headquarters until 8:20 p.m., when his wife, Elena, arrived, signed a liability form and took custody of her husband. He was released with his belongings, summonses and court date at 8:25 p.m., according to the report.

The incident report was filed by Patrolman Christopher Yi (Badge #509), with a supplemental report by Patrolman Scott Baker (Badge #486). Both reports were reviewed by Ryan Taylor (Badge #488).

Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.

Denville Issues Proclamation Recognizing June as Pride Month

By
Frank Cahill
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The Pride flag flies in recognition of Pride Month and the ongoing commitment to inclusion, equality, and acceptance.

DENVILLE — The Township of Denville has issued a proclamation recognizing June 2026 as Pride Month, encouraging residents to honor the community’s diversity and continue building a culture of inclusion, acceptance, and respect.

The proclamation, signed by Mayor Thomas W. Andes, states that Denville “welcomes and encourages diversity and inclusion within our community” and affirms that everyone should be able to live without fear of prejudice, discrimination, violence, or hatred based on race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

The proclamation also recognizes the historical importance of the Stonewall Uprising in New York City, noting that June 28, 2026, marks the 57th anniversary of the event. Stonewall is widely regarded as a turning point in the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

In the proclamation, Denville officials noted that Pride Month celebrations are held across the country each June to recognize the advancement of the LGBTQ+ community, while also raising awareness of the challenges that many LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face.

“While there has certainly been remarkable progress towards acceptance and equality, members of the LGBTQ+ community still continue to face insensitivity, discrimination, and intolerance,” the proclamation states.

The township also emphasized the need to support LGBTQ+ youth, who may be more likely to experience bullying, violence, depression, substance abuse, or suicidal thoughts compared with their peers.

Mayor Andes formally proclaimed June 2026 as Pride Month in the Township of Denville and urged residents to respect and honor the township’s diverse community.

The proclamation was shared publicly by the Township of Denville on social media and drew community reaction, including comments from residents in neighboring towns discussing whether their municipalities should request similar proclamations.

Bucco Bill Increasing Penalties for Assaults on Seniors and People with Disabilities Advances

By
Frank Cahill
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Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-25)

TRENTON — Legislation sponsored by Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco that would increase criminal penalties for assaults against seniors and people with disabilities has advanced out of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

The bill, S-271, would upgrade certain assaults when the victim is a person with a disability or a senior citizen age 60 or older. Under the measure, a person who causes bodily injury to one of these victims would be charged with aggravated assault, a third-degree crime, and face a mandatory minimum prison term of three years. If the victim suffers significant or serious bodily injury, the offense would rise to a second-degree crime.  

“Our seniors and residents with disabilities deserve to feel safe in their communities,” Bucco said. “When someone deliberately causes harm to a person who may be less able to defend themselves, the punishment should reflect the seriousness of that offense. This bill ensures that those who commit these acts will be prosecuted and when convicted will serve time in jail.”  

The legislation is co-sponsored by Senator Shirley K. Turner, who said the bill is intended to strengthen protections for vulnerable residents and ensure the justice system treats these crimes with appropriate seriousness.  

According to legislative sponsors, the bill was prompted in part by violent attacks involving elderly and disabled victims, including the assault of a Trenton man with an intellectual disability who was left permanently injured, as well as attacks on elderly victims during robberies and home invasions.  

S-271 was pre-filed for the 2026 legislative session and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee on January 13, 2026. The committee advanced the measure on June 11, 2026.  

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Morris Focus was founded in 2017 and is published in print and online formats. Its mission is to provide timely and accurate news coverage to Morris County residents and promote community engagement and involvement. The newspaper covers various topics, including local government, education, business, and sports. We can be reached by calling (973) 559-6000—a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.

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