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Wrong-Way Crash on I-80 Leaves One Dead, Another Seriously Injured

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — A wrong-way crash on Interstate 80 early Sunday morning resulted in one fatality and another person seriously injured, according to New Jersey State Police spokesperson Sergeant Charles Marchan.

The collision occurred at approximately 2:22 a.m. on I-80 westbound near milepost 36.2.

A preliminary investigation determined that a Mercedes SUV, driven by 45-year-old Victor Peters of Parsippany-Troy Hills, was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes. At the same time, a Ford pickup truck, driven by 31-year-old Destinn McKnight of East Stroudsburg, PA, was heading west when the two vehicles collided head-on.

McKnight sustained fatal injuries in the crash, while Peters was seriously injured, authorities reported.

The incident remains under investigation.

Understanding the Blackhawk-Civilian Airliner Collision

By
Frank Cahill
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On January 29, 2025, American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was involved in a mid-air collision with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C. The accident resulted in the tragic loss of all 67 individuals on board both aircraft.

Last week’s tragic collision between a Blackhawk helicopter and a civilian airliner has left many wondering how such an event could happen. As a former U.S. Army Apache pilot, I even found it complex to unpack.

To provide the most precise insight, I’ve combined key points from two experienced West Point classmates: an active Blackhawk pilot and a military and civilian pilot familiar with the exact flight pattern.

Their analysis is the most direct and unfiltered you will get from anywhere.

Blackhawk Pilot’s Perspective:

  • Unlike roadways with predictable opposing traffic, aircraft move in three-dimensional space at varying angles, altitudes, and speeds, making visual acquisition difficult.
  • Pilots must manage multiple factors, including airspace rules, radio communications, and environmental distractions such as the merging of ground, tower, and aircraft lighting. In critical moments, even with air traffic control (ATC) guidance, visually locating another aircraft can take several seconds—sometimes too long—to avoid a collision.
  • Congested airspace, complex procedures, and multiple radio frequencies can create communication gaps. UH-60 helicopters lack a collision avoidance system and rely only on visual identification.
  • Military and civilian pilots may have been on different radio frequency bands (UHF vs VHF), limiting coordination.
  • Nobody knows if the Army aviators’ night vision goggles were actively in use then. If so, they would have made it even harder to see other aircraft, particularly in an urban environment.
  • Helicopter operations are inherently risky, and this tragedy was not due to negligence but the challenging environment.

Airline Pilot’s Perspective:

  • Washington National Airport’s airspace is highly complex, with shifting wind conditions influencing runway selection and flight paths.
  • The jet’s traffic collision avoidance system may not have alerted the crew due to standard approach settings, ie: the normal alerts it gives are disabled below 1,200 feet when on approach to landing (to disable nuisance warnings that aircraft on the ground could generate – those waiting to depart, etc.)
  • In high-workload phases of flight—such as landing in gusty conditions on a short runway—airline pilots must focus intensely on descent parameters and aircraft handling, leaving little capacity to scan for unexpected traffic outside their immediate path.
  • It’s possible neither aircraft saw the other until it was too late.

I hope this helps you better understand what may have happened and gives you a broader appreciation for how and why an incident like this might have occurred.

I assure you that this incident will be fully investigated, and new safeguards will be implemented to prevent it from happening again. As always, aviation is the safest form of travel, so continue to fly with confidence.

Assemblyman Brian Bergen

Brian Bergen is a Republican New Jersey General Assembly member, representing the 26th legislative district since January 2024. Before this, he served the 25th district from January 2020 to January 2024. In January 2024, he was appointed as the Republican Whip.

Born July 8, 1979, Bergen graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. From 1997 to 2008, he served in the U.S. Army as an officer, company commander, and Apache helicopter pilot, earning a Bronze Star and the Combat Action Badge for his service in Iraq.

After his military service, Bergen earned an MBA from Rutgers Business School and a master’s degree in administration of justice and security from the University of Phoenix. He also holds a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certificate in business operations improvement from Villanova University. In his professional career, he has held various roles in finance, operations management, and executive leadership and is currently the owner of A&B Stainless Valve.

Join the Fight Against Hunger: Madison Rotary’s Food Packing Event

By
Frank Cahill
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Pack, Donate, Support: Madison Rotary’s End Hunger Event Seeks Volunteers

MADISON — The Madison Rotary Club and the Mental Health Rotary Club are collaborating to host a food-packing event on Saturday, March 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church, 4 Madison Avenue. The goal is to assemble and package 40,000 meals for local food pantries, supporting community members facing food insecurity.

The event will commence with a team challenge at 9:00 a.m., where teams will compete to pack the most meals in one hour. Subsequent shifts are scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., each accommodating up to 50 volunteers working across five assembly lines to package apple cinnamon oatmeal. All meals prepared during the event will be distributed to local pantries. Each team of 10 volunteers or their sponsor is encouraged to donate $1,000 to help cover meal costs.

Community members can register to participate or make donations to support the event and Rotary’s mission by visiting the Madison Rotary Club’s website. Since 2017, Madison Rotary has packaged and distributed over 700,000 meals locally, maintaining a strong focus on addressing food insecurity.

“This is a great team-building opportunity in addition to being fun,” said Joe Smith, one of the event’s organizers from Madison Rotary.

For more information or to get involved, please visit the Madison Rotary Club’s website by clicking here. You can also email Joe Smith by clicking here.

Panel Discussion on Adult Literacy to Be Held at Library of the Chathams

By
Frank Cahill
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Karol Ruiz

MADISON — The Madison Area Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will co-sponsor a panel discussion on the importance of adult literacy from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, in the Lundt Room at the Library of the Chathams, 214 Main Street, Chatham.

The event, co-sponsored by the AAUW Summit College Club, will feature local panelists discussing their efforts to address the community’s adult literacy needs.

Panelists include:

  • Karol Ruiz, community organizer for Wind of the Spirit immigrant resource center in Madison
  • Barbara Bagger, program director for Literacy New Jersey in Middlesex and Union Counties
  • Rocio Morales, New Jersey program coordinator for displaced homemaker services at the Center for Economic and Workforce Development at Union College

AAUW has been transforming women’s lives for more than a century. The Summit College Club and Madison area branches support education with scholarships, grants, programs introducing teen girls to STEM, topical monthly programs, and member special interest groups. Join us to find purpose, community, and friendship at madisonareaaauw.org or summitcollegeclub.org.

Belleville Resident Proposes Renaming Washington Avenue to Honor President Donald J. Trump

By
Frank Cahill
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Standing beside a street sign in Hialeah, Florida, honoring President Donald J. Trump, Belleville resident Joe Belnome hopes to bring the same recognition in New Jersey

BELLEVILLE – A proposal to rename Washington Avenue in honor of President Donald J. Trump was officially presented to the Belleville Town Council on January 28, 2025, by local resident Joe Belnome. The initiative aims to recognize the 45th and 47th President of the United States for his leadership, economic policies, and commitment to American values.

Belnome’s proposal is to rename Washington Avenue “President Donald J. Trump Avenue.” This key state-maintained roadway runs through the heart of Belleville, making it a highly visible and symbolic location to commemorate Trump’s legacy.

“President Trump’s ‘America First’ policies have strengthened communities like Belleville by promoting economic growth, supporting small businesses, and prioritizing national security,” Belnome said. “This renaming would honor his contributions and reflect the values held by many in our town.”

Rationale for the Name Change

According to the proposal, the renaming would:

  • Honor Leadership & Legacy: Recognizing President Trump’s impact on American prosperity and security.
  • Celebrate Community Patriotism: Many Belleville residents have expressed support for Trump’s policies, and renaming the road would reflect that sentiment.
  • Follow National Precedent: Cities like Hialeah, Florida, have successfully renamed streets after Trump, inspiring civic pride.
  • Boost Local Recognition & Tourism: The renaming could attract media attention and visitors, benefiting local businesses.

Steps Toward Approval

For the name change to take effect, the Belleville Town Council must first approve a formal resolution supporting the renaming. Since Washington Avenue is a state road, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) would also need to grant approval.

The proposal outlines key actions, including:

  1. Resolution Adoption – The Town Council formally endorses the renaming.
  2. State Coordination – Officials submit a request to NJDOT for review.
  3. Signage Implementation – The installation of official street signs.
  4. Dedication Ceremony – A public event featuring community leaders and residents to mark the renaming.

Community Reactions and Next Steps

While the proposal has drawn support from those who admire President Trump’s legacy, it is expected to generate discussions among residents and local officials.

Belnome remains optimistic that the initiative will move forward. “This is an opportunity for Belleville to be part of a national movement recognizing President Trump’s contributions. I hope the Council and NJDOT will take this step to honor his legacy.”

A sample street sign was presented during the meeting to give officials a visual representation of the proposed renaming. The Belleville Town Council is expected to discuss the proposal further in the coming weeks.

New Jersey State Police Seeking Public’s Assistance with Locating Escaped Inmate

By
Frank Cahill
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On Thursday, January 30, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m., Nicholas Voutsas escaped from a New Jersey Department of Health medical transport van that was en route to University Hospital in Newark, Essex County. As a result, the initial investigating agency, the New Jersey Human Services Police Department, charged Nicholas Voustas with escape.

He was last seen in the area of University Hospital, near South Orange Avenue and Bergen Street in Newark, Essex County. At the time of his escape, he was wearing a burgundy or maroon winter coat.

Voutsas is a Tier 2 registered sex offender. He is a 25-year-old Caucasian male, approximately 6’0” tall and weighing approximately 260 lbs.

Anyone with information that could assist in locating Nicholas Voutsas is urged to contact the New Jersey State Police Fugitive Unit Tipline at 1-800-437-7839 or email [email protected]. Anonymous tips are welcome.

Harmonium Cabaret Troupe Presents Songs of Revelation – An Evening of Music and Elegance

By
Frank Cahill
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HANOVER – The Harmonium Cabaret Troupe invites you to an unforgettable evening of Broadway favorites, fine dining, and exclusive prizes at Songs of Revelation on February 8, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The event will occur at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center, 60 N. Jefferson Rd., Whippany.

The evening features performances by semi-professional and professional singers and instrumentalists, delivering show-stopping Broadway hits. Guests will also enjoy a catered cocktail hour, a wine tasting, a high-end silent auction, and a high-stakes 50/50 raffle, where one lucky winner could take home up to $5,000.

Tickets are $75 and must be purchased online by February 3, 2025 at Harmonium.org/cabaret.

Don’t miss this spectacular night of music, fine wine, and exciting prizes—secure your tickets today!

Market Street Mission CEO Honored by Morris County

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners recently honored G. David “Dave” Scott, who retired on December 31, 2024, after 35 years as CEO and executive director of the Market Street Mission. The board recognized Scott’s exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to transforming the lives of those in need. Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen presented Scott with a framed resolution of honor highlighting his tenure at the Mission, a community institution that has provided aid to the homeless, hungry, and struggling with addiction since 1889.

“David has dedicated his life to helping others find hope and recovery. His leadership and service has profoundly impacted Morris County,” said Director Selen. “Under his guidance, the Market Street Mission expanded its reach and transformed countless lives, providing hope, support and a path forward for those who needed it most.”

“Here in Morris County, we are particularly grateful for your partnership with our Human Services Department in meeting critical community needs, especially during the unprecedented pandemic challenges,” Selen added.

2025 01 22 Dave Scott Retirement Resolution.jpg
Director Tayfun Selen presents a plaque to G. David “Dave” Scott.

As CEO, Scott spearheaded significant growth in the Mission’s Emergency Assistance and Life Change Recovery Program, which now serves residential and non-residential clients. He doubled the size of the Morristown facility. He expanded the Mission’s reach to the Jersey Shore and Sussex County, enhancing programs that have served tens of thousands annually with meals, shelter, and support.

The Mission now provides more than 140,000 meals and 44,000 nights of shelter annually. In recognition of its impact, Newsweek named Market Street Mission one of America’s Best Addiction Treatment Centers for the past two years. In 2024, it celebrated the graduation of its 100th Life Change addiction recovery class.

Scott began his career as a chaplain’s assistant in the U.S. Army. Before joining the Market Street Mission, he was superintendent of the Goodwill Home and Rescue Mission in Newark, N.J., and directed the residential treatment program at the Yonkers Gospel Mission.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in behavioral science and a Master of Arts in Counseling from California State University. He is a certified clinical supervisor, a licensed certified alcohol and drug counselor, and a licensed professional counselor.

Scott’s contributions have been recognized nationally, including the dedication of the Mission’s Asbury Park building in his honor and the declaration of December 5, 2024 as “David Scott Day” in Morristown.

Surrogate Heather Darling Sworn in as NJAC Alternate Representative

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling is sworn in as a State Surrogates Alternate Representative to the New Jersey Association of Counties (NJAC) during the Annual Reorganization Meeting at the State House in Trenton on January 24, 2025.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling has been sworn in as a State Surrogates Alternate Representative to the New Jersey Association of Counties (NJAC) for the 2025 term. The ceremony occurred during NJAC’s Annual Reorganization Meeting on January 24 inside the Senate Chambers of the State House in Trenton. Following the swearing-in, attendees gathered for a luncheon at the historic Masonic Temple.

As part of NJAC, Surrogate Darling will work alongside county officials to advocate for legislation, regulations, and policies that improve county operations and enhance residents’ services. She will focus on probate court administration, guardianships, and estate matters and contribute to initiatives that increase county government efficiency and effectiveness.

Darling also congratulated Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson, who was sworn in as NJAC’s 84th President, along with all newly appointed NJAC officers and representatives.

NJAC is a nonpartisan organization that represents county governments across New Jersey. It strives to strengthen local governance and improve public services.

For more information about the Morris County Surrogate’s Office and its services, visit Morris County Surrogate Office.

Nursing Graduates at CCM Earn a 100% Pass Rate on NCLEX®-RN Exam

By
Frank Cahill
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Rank of Program Based on Percentage of Graduates Passing, CCM, 2023-24 Annual, New Jersey: 1 out of 55; Other Programs of Similar Type/ADN: 1 out of 1176; USA: 1 out of 2228.

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) proudly announces that 100 percent of its recent nursing program graduates passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX®-RN) on their first attempt. This provides a pipeline of talent for high-demand fields facing critical shortages.  

CCM President Dr. Anthony J. Iacono said, “This remarkable achievement is a testament to the incredible nursing faculty, our dedicated students, and the continuous, robust support we receive from our Board of Trustees, County Commissioners, and our partners throughout the medical community.” 

The exam, administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), measures nursing competency and is required for employment in the United States. CCM graduates consistently surpass the national NCLEX®-RN pass rate of 90 percent, with the May 2024 and December 2023 classes achieving a 100 percent pass rate. This outstanding performance ranks CCM #1 in New Jersey, #1 for associate degree programs, and #1 in the U.S., compared with other nursing programs, according to the NCSBN.*   

“With faculty support, our students achieved outstanding success on the NCLEX, reflective of their hard work and the quality of education they receive at CCM,” said Maria Isaza, Ph.D., dean of the School of Health Professions & Natural Sciences. “We are immensely proud of this achievement!” 

CCM’s highly respected nursing program offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students to enter the profession. Expert faculty with advanced degrees and clinical experience teach in state-of-the-art facilities, including the Paragano Family Foundation Healthcare Simulation Center, which uses cutting-edge technology to provide realistic, hands-on training. The forthcoming 70,000-square-foot Center for Health Professions will further expand the innovative resources on campus and help support the healthcare industry in Morris County and the surrounding region. 

“Congratulations to our dedicated faculty for their unwavering commitment to guiding our nursing students toward success,” said Eleni Pellazgu, Ph.D., DNP, APN, FNP-C, NEA-BC, CNE, Director of Nursing at CCM. “Their hard work and passion for teaching have played a crucial role in inspiring and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.” 

College Factual recognizes CCM’s nursing program as the Best Nursing Associate Degree School in the Nation and the Best Value Registered Nursing School in New Jersey for individuals earning between $75,000 and $110,000.

For more information, click here, email the nursing department at [email protected], or call (973) 328-5353. 

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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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