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Experience Culinary Delights at the 2024 Taste of Madison Event

By
Frank Cahill
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The Taste of Madison will be held at The Madison Hotel, 1 Convent Road, Morristown, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

MADISON — The 2024 Taste of Madison invites guests to savor various food and beverages from across the borough. The Taste of Madison will be held at The Madison Hotel, One Convent Road, Morristown, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Taste of Madison is a party for food lovers, a celebration of Madison, and a fundraiser that benefits local non-profit initiatives.

Chefs from thirty of the area’s finest restaurants will serve samples of their best dishes. Gary’s Wine & Marketplace will provide guests fine wine, beer, and spirits. The Taste has a Silent Auction, Trick Tray, and 50/50 Raffle.

Beginning in early March, the community can purchase tickets at Gary’s Wine & Marketplace, 121 Main Street, or at www.TasteOfMadison.org. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and guests must be at least 21 years of age. The recommended attire is business casual.

“The Taste of Madison was established in 2002 as a fun, town-wide fundraiser that is a cure for the winter blues”, stated organizers. “In its previous nineteen editions, the Taste of Madison has raised over $600,000 and entertained more than 8,000 guests.

With an expected attendance of 400 to 500 guests, the organizers are seeking sponsors. For sponsorship inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact Karen Giambra at (973) 214-7014.

“Freaky Friday” Musical Hits the Stage at Whippany Park High School

By
Frank Cahill
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Whippany Park High School Presents: "Freaky Friday" Musical Extravaganza

HANOVER — Whippany Park High School’s spring musical, “Freaky Friday,” kicks off on Thursday, February 22.

The book is by Bridger Carpenter, the music is by Tom Kitt, and the lyrics are by Brian Yorkey. Based on the novel Freaky Friday by Mary Rodgers and the Disney films.

To secure tickets, click here.

The showtimes are Thursday, February 22, Friday, February 23, and Saturday, February 24, at 7:00 p.m., with a matinee on Saturday, February 24, at 2:00 p.m. General admission is $15.00, and students and seniors only $10.00.

Whippany Park High School Theater is located at 165 Whippany Road, Whippany. Whippany Park High School Theatre has been showcasing performances for 55 years, featuring one fall drama and a spring musical on its schedule.

Florham Park Library Hosts Free Event: Encouraging Diversity in STEM Careers

By
Frank Cahill
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Cyndi Wilson, DTM

FLORHAM PARK – On Monday, March 4th at 7:00 p.m., the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Madison Area Branch will be presenting a complimentary in-person event titled “Encouraging Women and Minorities to Pursue STEM Careers” at the Florham Park Library, located at 107 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park.

The featured speaker for the evening will be Cyndi Wilson, a project management professional and a member of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) Board of Visitors for the Women in Engineering Group. Wilson brings a wealth of experience, having been a member of Toastmasters International for 15 years and holding the distinguished title of Distinguished Toastmaster. Within Toastmasters International, she has served in leadership capacities at the club, district, and international levels. Toastmasters International, a nonprofit educational organization, aims to foster confidence and enhance public speaking skills through its global network of both online and in-person clubs.

Wilson is a proud three-time graduate of NJIT, holding a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and two master’s degrees: one in management and another in technology management.

Additionally, she possesses a master’s certificate in commercial project management from George Washington University and a certificate in diversity, equity, and inclusion from Cornell University.

Wilson’s passion for science and technology ignited during elementary school despite the prevalent discouragement toward women and minorities pursuing technical careers. Nonetheless, she remained undeterred, forging ahead to carve out a distinct path for her life.

The Madison Area AAUW actively promotes education through grants, programs designed to introduce teenage girls to STEM fields, monthly programs on various topics, and member-specialized interest groups such as a book club, a mahjong game, and book sales.

For further details, click here.

Morris County Resident Arrested for Child Pornography

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Prosecutor

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Jefferson Township Chief of Police Paul Castimore announce the arrest of Richard Kattermann, 31, of Jefferson Township, in connection with possession of Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM).

The defendant has been charged with one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of CSAM), a third-degree crime in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4B(5)(b)(iii).

The investigation began with a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) referencing a media file allegedly depicting the sexual exploitation or abuse of minors. The defendant allegedly uploaded the media file to Discord, an internet-based social platform. It is further alleged that the defendant possessed additional items of CSAM. At the time of this investigation, he was employed at Montgomery Academy, a school serving students aged 5 to 21, in Basking Ridge.

Kattermann was arrested on the above charges on February 8. Following his arrest, he was released pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act with pretrial release conditions that included supervision and internet monitoring.

Prosecutor Carroll would like to acknowledge the Jefferson Township Police Department, the Bernards Township Police Department, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force for their efforts in this investigation.

Suppose anyone has any information related to this investigation. In that case, they are encouraged to call the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force of the Sex Crimes / Child Endangerment Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Somerset Man Found Guilty of Conspiracy, Robbery, Theft and Witness Tampering

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Prosecutor

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Riverdale Police Chief Charles Quant Jr. confirmed that a jury has found Melvin Banks, 37, Somerset, guilty of one count of second-degree Conspiracy; first-degree Armed Robbery; third-degree Theft of a Motor Vehicle and first-degree Witness Tampering.

The State presented evidence that Melvin Banks targeted the owner of a high-end luxury car rental business in a conspiracy to rob the individual of jewelry and other items. On December 4, 2021, Banks was scheduled to return a rented Mercedes S580 to the victim and coordinated its return for 9:00 p.m. that evening. At 9:31 p.m., the victim was instead robbed at gunpoint by co-defendant Daniel Lind. Lind fired a handgun mere feet from where the victim sat and took approximately $100,000 in jewelry and cell phones. Lind then fled the business and entered the waiting rental vehicle Melvin Banks drove. In the hours leading up to the robbery, Banks and Lind were captured on surveillance purchasing black gloves and cable ties at a local Home Depot and returning to the scene of the robbery to await the victim’s arrival. In the months after the robbery, during the subsequent investigation of the crime by Riverdale Police, Banks sent messages threatening harm to the victim and the victim’s family if the victim did not drop the charges.

Before trial, Daniel Lind pled guilty to first-degree Robbery and second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and was sentenced to eight years in New Jersey State Prison.

The charges against Melvin Banks were tried before a jury between January 30, 2024, and February 8, 2024. The Honorable Claudia Jones, JSC, presided over the trial. Assistant Prosecutor Alexandra Pecora and Assistant Prosecutor Bridget Carr represented the State. The jury returned its verdict on February 9, 2024.

Melvin Banks is scheduled to be sentenced on March 22, 2024. He is being held at the Morris County Correctional Facility pending sentencing.

Prosecutor Carroll would like to acknowledge the Riverdale Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office General Investigation Unit for their efforts in this investigation and prosecution.

Madison Resident Achieves Second Honors on Clark University’s Fall Dean’s List

By
Frank Cahill
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Madison High School standout Carmine J. Toto in action, showcasing his dedication and athleticism on the field. A true leader both in academics and sports!

MADISON — Carmine J. Toto achieved second honors on the Dean’s List at Clark University for the Fall 2023 semester, showcasing remarkable academic excellence.

To earn first honors, students must maintain a GPA of 3.8 or higher, while second honors are awarded for GPAs ranging from 3.50 to 3.79.

Established in 1887, Clark University is a research university grounded in the liberal arts, dedicated to equipping students with the skills and knowledge to confront future challenges and seize opportunities.

Offering over 45 undergraduate majors and tracks, more than 30 advanced degree programs, and a growing array of professional certificate programs, Clark University is committed to integrating rigorous scholarship with real-world experiences, enabling students to pursue meaningful and impactful careers.

For more information, visit www.clarku.edu.

East Hanover’s James LaRosa Ventures Abroad for Spring Studies at Lebanon Valley College

By
Frank Cahill
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James LaRosa

EAST HANOVER — James LaRosa has embarked on a study abroad journey this spring, joining 22 other Lebanon Valley College students participating in the institution’s study away program.

A Hanover Park High School graduate, LaRosa is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in audio and music production. He is studying in Northern Ireland, where he can fulfill both major and general education requirements at Queen’s University. Situated in the culturally rich city of Belfast, this program offers a unique educational experience in a safe environment with Irish and British heritage.

Lebanon Valley College prides itself on providing students like LaRosa with opportunities for global exploration, with nearly 20 percent of its student body engaging in study and travel abroad experiences. These experiences play a crucial role in shaping students into well-rounded global citizens.

Click here to learn more about Lebanon Valley College’s study away program.

About Lebanon Valley College: Founded in 1866, Lebanon Valley College offers a wide range of majors across various disciplines, such as health professions, sciences, business, digital media, arts, humanities, and education. The college prioritizes hands-on learning, internships, and research opportunities.

Additionally, Lebanon Valley College offers direct-entry programs leading to master’s degrees in fields such as accounting, athletic training, clinical mental health counseling, engineering, and speech-language pathology. The college also provides numerous graduate degree programs, including an MBA and master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling, education, exercise science, and intelligence and security studies.

The college’s emphasis on close faculty-student relationships, mentoring, athletic participation, leadership, and community service involvement contributes to its well-rounded education on its 370-acre campus. Lebanon Valley College is committed to facilitating career success through its Breen Center for Career and Professional Development and offers generous financial aid and scholarships to its diverse student body. Located near Hershey, Pennsylvania, the college boasts a strong alumni network that excels in graduate and professional schools and in top companies and school districts worldwide.

Joyriding Ends in Arrests: Suspects Charged in Boonton Police Pursuit

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Boonton Police

BOONTON — A police officer from the Town of Boonton Police Department attempted to initiate a motor vehicle stop with a 2015 White Honda that was observed to be failing to maintain lane discipline on Morris Avenue. (Click here to read the original story)

The vehicle then dangerously failed to stop at a red light from a residential road onto Main Street. When the officer activated the patrol vehicle emergency lights, the suspect vehicle continued without stopping, eluding the law enforcement officer onto Interstate 287 southbound.

The suspect vehicle quickly accelerated away from the officer and turned off all its lights. At this point, the officer lost visual sight of the suspect vehicle. The officer terminated the motor vehicle pursuit. The officer believed the suspect vehicle entered Interstate 80 westbound.

Shortly thereafter, the New Jersey State Police came across a single-vehicle motor vehicle crash where a vehicle had collided with the center lane barrier for the westbound lane of Interstate 80, adjacent to the ramp for Interstate 287 southbound at the entrance for Interstate 80 westbound.

This vehicle was determined to be the same vehicle that eluded the Town of Boonton Police. The Town of Boonton Police Department and surrounding towns were notified.

A subsequent search for the driver ensued as it was reported that the driver had fled the scene. Two 16-year-old juveniles were located in the vehicle with significant bodily injuries from the motor vehicle crash. Mountain Lakes Police Department then located the driver on Parsippany Boulevard, who also had bodily injuries. He was apprehended and taken into custody.

All three were transported to Morristown Medical Center for treatment and evaluation.

During the investigation, the vehicle’s owner reported the vehicle missing and that the occupants did not have permission to take the vehicle.

A firearm was recovered from the vehicle, and a juvenile passenger was charged.

All three were charged with theft through conveyance “joyriding.”

The adult driver, Nathaniel Arocho, 18, Bloomfield, was charged on a warrant complaint with Eluding and Aggravated Assault. Arocho was also charged with eight motor vehicle offenses, including driving without a license, speeding, and reckless driving.

The juveniles were released to their parents with a notice to appear for processing at the Boonton Police Department. The adult was committed to the Morris County Jail pursuant to Criminal Justice Reform.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Margaret Cronkhite named to the Honors List at Fairleigh Dickinson University

By
Frank Cahill
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Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus

MADISON — Margaret Cronkhite, of Madison, a student at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Metropolitan Campus in Teaneck, has been named to the Honors List for the Fall 2023 semester.

To qualify for the Honors List, a student must carry a 3.5 or better grade point average out of a possible 4.0 and be enrolled in at least 12 letter-graded hours (four courses).

Margaret Cronkhite

The University’s Metropolitan Campus, located in the dynamic NY/NJ corridor in Teaneck, features a university atmosphere with an international perspective, attracting students from the U.S. and around the world. Undergraduates have access to the resources of a major graduate center and nearby New York City as an integral part of their learning experience.

Devoted to preparing world citizens through global education, Fairleigh Dickinson University is New Jersey’s largest private university.

It features more than 100 liberal arts and professional degree programs, two international campuses, dozens of partnerships with internationally renowned institutions, special programs, and status within the United Nations. For more information, go to www.fdu.edu.

Hanover Mayor Ace Gallager Speaks Out on Affordable Housing Legislation

By
Frank Cahill
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Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher

HANOVER — On February 8, 2024, the New Jersey Legislature is holding a hearing concerning Assembly No. 4 and Senate No. 50, which seeks to make significant changes to affordable housing regulations. In this regard, several mayors are traveling to Trenton to testify before one of the legislative committees. Mayor Gallagher has prepared a statement on behalf of the Township Committee that will be entered into the record and reflects the Township Committee’s position on the matter.

Dear Members of the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly: 

I address our New Jersey Legislators as Mayor of Hanover Township, Morris County. I speak in response to the proposed A-4/S-50 legislation, which gives real estate developers an even more significant advantage to impose new burdens of high-density development on municipalities, local governments, and the taxpayers of New Jersey. 

Hanover Township resolutely supports affordable housing. However, we cannot support an untenable process that is forced on our residents after concluding an affordable housing settlement in which we committed to build hundreds of residential units for properties that previously, in the entire history of our Township, had not filed a single application for residential development Throughout the third-round process we repeatedly heard from our residents, not about concerns over affordable housing itself, but about the off-site realities, like traffic, flooding, stormwater management, expansion of schools, police protection, and public safety demands. Nowhere in this process is that addressed. As a member of a governing body that participates at the State, county, and local level on a day-to-day basis, we hear the concerns of our residents. We hear the failures and the realities of high-density development in our community. 

Now, after the conclusion of our third round, we are presented with legislation that, if approved, will create a legacy of sprawl throughout our already densely populated Township and State. A legacy based on a single trial court decision that did not reach the higher court and never addressed the very specific and unique issues for Morris County and the Township yet has been deemed the benchmark for every municipality to follow. 

To avoid repeating my colleague’s statements that the Township wholeheartedly supports, I turn to the New Jersey State Planning Commission, which is currently reviewing the State’s Development and Redevelopment Plan. 

This Plan is supposed to impact and guide communities with appropriate development designations. The Commission has been engaged with stakeholders and municipalities seeking comments and concerns regarding the updated Plan. The Commission has stated a desire for “the counties, municipalities, State agencies and the general public to all play an integral role in this process.” This includes joint public informational meetings with each county planning board to begin the process of what is known as cross-acceptance with different levels of government. The Commission has been working with the county planner’s associations as part of this process. 

In contrast, let’s look at the affordable housing process before us. We have the A- 4/S-50 legislation proceeding through the Senate and Assembly without updated information being considered, without an analysis of the third-round, high-density development impact on municipalities throughout the State, and without seeking out any information from our community or any communities concerning this process. 

We are being ignored and our voices are unheard. The studies and the impact analyses do not exist This is essentially a mandate. And it is not only an unfunded mandate but a development mandate against all residents and citizens of the State. 

As Mayor of Hanover Township, I speak on behalf of the Township Committee in opposition to A-4/S-50. I respectfully request that you evaluate, solicit input and opinions, and give all stakeholders a voice. That means seats not just for developers and Fair Share Housing Center but for local officials, planners, engineers, residents, and environmental representatives. 

Thank you for the opportunity to submit these comments into the record. 

Very truly yours,
for the Township Committee
Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Mayor

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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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