DOVER — Tierras y Sabores Restaurant, owned by Carlos Amezquita and Blanca Martinez, is an authentic Colombian restaurant serving the Morris County community. Located at 33 West Blackwell Street in Dover, the restaurant is open seven days a week and can be reached at (973) 366-5458. Offering dine-in, takeout, and catering services for family gatherings, holidays, and special events, Tierras y Sabores brings the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Colombia to the heart of North Jersey.
Morris County Vocational School District Programs Earn State Environmental Honors
MORRIS COUNTY — Students and educators from the Morris County Vocational School District were recognized with two prestigious environmental awards during the 2024 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards ceremony, highlighting their commitment to environmental stewardship, education, and sustainability.
The Academy for Environmental Science, located at Jefferson Township High School and operated by the Morris County Vocational School District, received the 2024 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award for Environmental Education. The honor was one of only nine awards presented statewide and recognized organizations, businesses, and individuals demonstrating exceptional dedication to protecting New Jersey’s air, land, water, open space, and wildlife.
Among the academy’s notable projects were environmental cleanups at Lake Hopatcong and air particulate studies conducted during the Canadian wildfire smoke events that affected air quality throughout New Jersey. The research provided students with hands-on opportunities to examine real-world environmental issues while contributing valuable data and awareness efforts.
Heather Varner, lead teacher for the Academy for Environmental Science, and Patricia Vandigriff, teacher of Environmental Literature, accepted the award on behalf of the program during the December ceremony.
The Morris County Vocational School District also celebrated the achievements of Carolyn He, a student in the Academy for Mathematics, Science and Engineering located at Morris Hills High School, who received the James J. Florio Emerging Environmental Leader Award.
The award recognizes a young New Jersey resident who demonstrates exceptional leadership and outstanding accomplishments in environmental protection.
He earned the distinction through her leadership of A Sustainable Future, an initiative focused on reducing paper waste and promoting sustainable printing practices in schools. Since 2023, the program has helped more than 75 school districts and over 200 students nationwide reduce excessive printing. The initiative has expanded internationally and recently hosted its first Climate Convention to engage students in discussions about environmental challenges and solutions.
The Academy for Environmental Science offers students an interdisciplinary curriculum that explores natural processes and human impacts on the atmosphere, aquatic systems, and soil environments. Students integrate concepts from biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, technology, language arts, history, and the arts to gain a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues.
The Morris County Vocational School District’s academy programs provide students in grades nine through twelve with specialized instruction in career-focused fields. Students complete both academy coursework and New Jersey Department of Education academic requirements while earning a high school diploma from the Morris County Vocational School District. Programs also offer opportunities for internships and college credit.
The Morris County Vocational School District serves students through a variety of career and technical education programs, including automotive technology, construction trades, healthcare sciences, global commerce, performing arts, cybersecurity, and environmental science. The district operates full-time academies and share-time programs at its Denville campus and satellite locations throughout Morris County in partnership with local school districts and the County College of Morris.
Community Rallies Around Dina Barraco Pepe During Health Battle
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Family and friends are asking the community to support Dina Barraco Pepe as she faces a series of serious health challenges that have dramatically changed her life.
In December, Dina suffered a stroke. During the course of her medical treatment, doctors discovered she has Stage 3 lung cancer. The diagnosis has brought significant emotional, physical, and financial challenges for Dina and her family as they navigate the difficult road ahead.
This is not Dina’s first battle with cancer. Years earlier, she successfully fought breast cancer, demonstrating remarkable strength, determination, and resilience. Today, she is once again drawing upon that courage as she begins another fight for her health.
As medical treatments continue, the financial burden of everyday expenses and mounting bills has added additional stress for the family. Loved ones have launched a fundraising campaign to help ease those concerns, allowing Dina to focus on her recovery and treatment.
“Dina has always been a source of strength and support for those around her,” family members said. “Now she needs that same support from her community.”
Funds raised will help cover essential household expenses and other financial obligations while Dina undergoes treatment. Organizers say every contribution, regardless of the amount, can make a meaningful difference.
Heather and the entire family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support, prayers, encouragement, and donations they have received.
Community members who are unable to donate are encouraged to share the fundraiser and keep Dina and her family in their thoughts as she continues her fight.
“Always stay strong” has become the family’s message of hope as Dina faces this latest challenge with the same determination that carried her through her previous battle with cancer.
Click here to donate to her GoFundMe account.
Morris County School of Technology Student Selected as NJSIAA Student Ambassador
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Vocational School District student Duncan Felch, a member of the Academy for Education and Learning at the Morris County School of Technology, has been selected as a New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association Student Ambassador.
Felch is one of only eight students statewide chosen for the prestigious program, which brings together student-athletes from across New Jersey to collaborate, share ideas, and promote sportsmanship and leadership throughout high school athletics.
“It is an honor to have a student from the Morris County Vocational School District, specifically Morris County School of Technology, selected as an NJSIAA Student Ambassador,” said Dr. Anita Champagne, superintendent of the Morris County Vocational School District. “This is an incredible responsibility for Duncan, as he will serve as the voice of many young athletes across the State of New Jersey. I have no doubt that he will excel in this leadership role, reflecting MCVSD’s mission to inspire and prepare students to succeed. Congratulations to Duncan Felch on this esteemed accomplishment.”
In addition to his academic studies, Felch serves as president of the Class of 2027 and is active in athletics and student leadership. He competes on the varsity boys basketball team, serves as captain of the varsity boys cross-country team, and is secretary of the school’s Morris County Council.
“Being selected as an NJSIAA Student Ambassador is an incredible honor,” Felch said. “I’m excited to represent my school and peers while promoting the values of sportsmanship, leadership, and inclusion that high school athletics stand for. My role is to serve as a voice for student-athletes across New Jersey, helping to foster positive experiences on and off the court. This opportunity motivates me to lead by example and help create a lasting impact in our athletic community.”
Conor Devine, assistant principal at Morris County School of Technology, said Felch’s selection highlights both his leadership abilities and academic accomplishments.
“Duncan is a great representative of all that it takes to be a successful student-athlete in an academically rigorous environment like Morris County School of Technology,” Devine said. “It is also important to note that he is the only representative in this year’s cohort from a New Jersey Athletic Conference school, as well as the only representative selected statewide from a county vocational-technical school.”
The NJSIAA Student Ambassador Program promotes leadership in the classroom and on athletic fields, sportsmanship, health and safety awareness, and positive relationships among student-athletes, coaches, and officials. Student ambassadors provide feedback and perspectives to the NJSIAA Executive Committee and staff, helping guide future initiatives that benefit student-athletes throughout the state.
The Morris County Vocational School District offers a wide range of career and technical education programs designed to prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond. Programs include automotive technology, construction trades, healthcare sciences, cybersecurity, global commerce, performing arts, and many other career-focused fields. The district operates full-time academies and share-time programs at its Denville campus and satellite locations throughout Morris County.
Morristown Man Arrested on Criminal Warrant
HANOVER TOWNSHIP — A Morristown man was taken into custody on an outstanding criminal warrant issued by Hanover Township Municipal Court, according to police.
On May 1, 2026, Hanover Township Police Officer Jake Crane arrested Raekwon Dixon, 24, of Morristown, on a criminal warrant issued by Hanover Township Municipal Court with bail set at $2,500.
Dixon had previously been arrested by the Morristown Police Department. Hanover Township Police Officer Crane responded to Morristown and took custody of Dixon after he was unable to post bail on the Hanover Township warrant.
Dixon was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where he was lodged pending a court appearance.
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.
Hanover Township Police Arrest Two Whippany Men on Warrants, Additional Charges Filed Following Drone Investigation
HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Two Whippany men were arrested on outstanding warrants and face additional charges following a drone investigation at a local hotel, according to police.
On May 1, 2026, Police Officer Patrick Thompson arrested Jasen Renna, 47, and Darryl Renna, 72, both currently of Whippany, after discovering they had active warrants for their arrests.
Police Officer Thompson was in the parking lot of the Extended Stay when he observed a drone flying overhead in a no-drone zone due to the proximity of Morristown Airport. He identified Jasen Renna as the operator of the drone and Darryl Renna as a visual observer. Because he was involved in another matter at the time, Police Officer Thompson allowed them to return to their room and said he would follow up later.
During his investigation, Police Officer Thompson found that Darryl Renna had a $3,500 criminal warrant issued by Rahway Municipal Court. Jasen Renna had two traffic warrants issued by the Paterson and Fair Lawn courts, with bail amounts of $600 and $1,500.
Police Officer Thompson and Sergeant Prach went to their motel room. Darryl Renna told officers that Jasen Renna had left the room, but Jasen Renna was found hiding under a bed.
Both men were placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters for processing.
Darryl Renna was charged with hindering by attempting to conceal another person and was released with a court date. He was also given a new court date in Rahway.
Jasen Renna was charged with obstruction and unsafe operation of a drone and was released with a court date. He was also given new court dates in Fair Lawn and Paterson.
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.
Mountain Lakes PBA Local 310 to Host Community Block Party
MOUNTAIN LAKES — Mountain Lakes PBA Local 310 will host a family-friendly Block Party on Saturday, June 13, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Pocono Road, between Boulevard and Crane Road.
The event is designed as a day of community fun, food, and entertainment for residents and families. Admission includes all-you-can-eat food and drinks, with beer available for guests age 21 and older.
Activities will include live music, a video game trailer, mechanical bull, bounce house, and games.
Ticket prices are $50.00 for adults 21 and over, $25.00 for guests under 21, and free for children 6 and under. Click here to purchase tickets. Tickets will also be available at the door.
The event is being presented by Mountain Lakes PBA Local 310 as part of its continued service to the Mountain Lakes community.
Warren County Man Charged In Robbery Of Jefferson Gas Attendant
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — A Warren County man was charged with robbery and simple assault after police said he assaulted a gas station attendant and took cash from the attendant during a dispute over fuel.
Jefferson Township police responded to the Mobil gas station at 778 Route 15 North in the Lake Hopatcong section of the township for a report of a robbery involving a gas attendant.
Police said the victim told officers he had been assaulted by a customer following a dispute over the amount of gas pumped into the customer’s vehicle.
The suspect was identified as Daniel Chavez, 47, of Washington, police said.
According to police, Chavez allegedly assaulted the attendant, took cash from the attendant’s hand and fled the scene.
Chavez was charged with second-degree robbery and simple assault.
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.
29th Annual Morris County Lifetime Achievement Awards Dinner
MORRIS COUNTY — Nick Rafanello, president and chief executive officer of Eastern Janitorial was among six distinguished Morris County residents honored this week at the 29th Annual Morris County Lifetime Achievement Awards Dinnerhosted by the Patriots’ Path Council, Scouting America.
The annual event recognizes individuals who exemplify in their daily life the ideals that Scouting America has expressed in the Scout Oath and Law for more than 116 years. Honorees are selected for their dedication to worthwhile causes and the impact they have made throughout Morris County.
The event was chaired by Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, Sheriff James Gannon and state Senator Anthony Bucco also attended to applaud the individuals whose service and leadership have made lasting contributions to Morris County communities.
View More Photos from the Event
Each honoree received a commemorative plaque from Patriots’ Path Council featuring artwork by Joseph Csatari, the longtime official artist of the Boy Scouts of America and a protégé of Norman Rockwell. Csatari succeeded Rockwell as the organization’s official artist, continuing a Scouting artistic tradition that began with Rockwell in 1912 and carrying it forward through his own memorable illustrations and contributions. Csatari passed away last year at the age of 96.
Honorees also received Morris County Certificates of Honor, along with recognitions presented by Sheriff Gannon and Senator Bucco.
The 2026 honorees included:
·Nick Rafanello, president and chief executive officer of Eastern Janitorial, also introduced by Morris Plains Mayor Karr.
·Col. Patrick Callahan, former superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. Sadly, Col. Callahan was unable to attend following the passing of his father, Major Francis M. “Mick” Callahan, earlier this week. Chief Ambrose recognized both Col. Callahan and his father during the ceremony and read a letter submitted by former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Lee Vartan.
·Emerson Crooks, Vietnam veteran and vice president of the Mental Health Association’s Board of Directors, introduced by former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Dr. Anthony Iacono, president of the County College of Morris.
·Rich Hoer, president and chief executive officer of Lakeside Construction, introduced by former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Thomas D. Sellaro.
·Thomas J. Mastrangelo, Morris County commissioner, introduced by former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient John Sette.
·Pam O’Donnell, founder of the Catch You Later Foundation, introduced by Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr, a former Morris County Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.
The event held on June 3 raised more than $80,000 to support local Scouting programs. Funding helps provide camping and adventure excursions for Scouts requiring financial assistance, as well as Eagle Scout Merit Scholarships for local youth pursuing higher education.
For more information about the Patriots’ Path Council, sponsorship opportunities or upcoming events, visit the official Patriots’ Path Council Scouting America website.
Mother Seeks Support for Son’s Recovery Following Serious Bicycle Accident
MORRIS COUNTY — Debbie Watts-Szymanek is asking for support for her son, Travis, following a devastating bicycle accident that has left him facing a lengthy recovery and mounting medical expenses.
On May 30, Travis was training for an upcoming triathlon when he was involved in a serious accident. An avid athlete dedicated to fitness and competition, Travis was riding approximately 22 miles per hour when he struck a loose patch of gravel and was thrown from his bicycle onto the pavement.
Despite the severity of the crash, Travis was able to call his wife, Kenzie, who is pregnant with their first child. As an athletic trainer, Kenzie immediately rushed to his side, stabilized his injuries, and ensured he received prompt medical care.
Travis suffered extensive injuries, including a compound fracture of both the radius and ulna in his left forearm, fractures to his orbital bone, maxilla, and sinus cavity on the left side of his face, along with multiple facial lacerations requiring nine stitches.
His family is incredibly grateful that he was wearing a helmet, which likely prevented even more catastrophic injuries. However, Travis now faces a long road to recovery that will include rehabilitation, time away from work, and the possibility of additional surgery to address his facial fractures.
As Travis and Kenzie prepare to welcome their first child, the financial burden of medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation costs, and potential future treatments adds another layer of stress during an already challenging time.
Debbie created this fundraiser in hopes of easing some of that burden and allowing her son and daughter-in-law to focus on healing and preparing for their growing family. Any contribution, regardless of size, will make a meaningful difference and will be deeply appreciated.
Those who are unable to donate are asked to keep Travis, Kenzie, and their baby in their thoughts and prayers.
“We are thankful beyond words that this accident was not even more tragic,” Debbie said. “Your support, encouragement, kindness, and prayers mean more than we can express.”
A special thank you goes to Aunt Andrea for helping establish the fundraiser and to everyone who offers support during this difficult time.
Click here to donate.