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Suspects Charged in Hanover Township Robbery Following Drug Deal Dispute

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

HANOVER — On October 12, 2024, Hanover Township Police responded to a reported gunshot wound at the Red Carpet / Scottish Inn. Officers quickly determined the victim had not been shot but was struck in the head with part of a handgun and robbed. No shots were fired during the incident. Following an extensive investigation, police revealed the incident stemmed from a drug deal. The following individuals were charged:

  • Michael Mills, 36, of Newton: Charged with robbery with a firearm, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of a firearm for unlawful purposes, unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm during narcotics distribution, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of cocaine.
  • Clayton Lockman, 21, of Rockaway: Charged with robbery with a weapon, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, aggravated assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
  • Patrice Wilson, 30, of Newton: Charged with robbery with a weapon, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, aggravated assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

The suspects were remanded to the Morris County Jail.

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 Presents “Paper Trails: How Bureaucracy Shaped the Lives of Holocaust Refugees”

By
Frank Cahill
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Didi Tal

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) invites the community to an eye-opening lecture, “Paper Trails: How Bureaucracy Shaped the Lives of Holocaust Refugees,” being held on Tuesday, November 19, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m., in Cohen Hall 100 on CCM’s campus. Presented by United States Holocaust Memorial Museum fellow Didi Tal, this talk will examine the profound impact of immigration paperwork on refugees fleeing Nazi persecution to seek refuge in our country during one of history’s darkest periods.    

As immigration restrictions grew in the U.S., American culture mirrored this shift with discussions on border control. This topic permeated film, journalism, and popular media and refugees described their bureaucratic journeys through literature. This lecture will explore the history and culture of American immigration restriction and how it shaped the lives of Holocaust refugees, their fates, and their narratives. 

Tal, a Ph.D. candidate in German studies at Columbia University, is a William J. Lowenberg Memorial Fellow on America, the Holocaust, and the Jews, at the Mandel Center for Advanced Holocaust Studies at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Her dissertation “Paper and Trails: the Holocaust and U.S. Border Control” explores immigration policy and literature during the Holocaust and the intersections of paperwork and German exile. She holds an MFA in writing from Columbia University and a bachelor’s degree in history from Humboldt University in Berlin. 

This free lecture, open to the public, is hosted by CCM’s Department of Arts & Humanities and CCM’s Legacy Project. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as seating is limited. For more information, please email legacy@ccm.edu. CCM is located at 214 Center Grove Road in Randolph. Visitors can park in Lot 7.  

This program is made possible through the generosity of the Curt C. and Else Silberman Foundation, supporting programs in higher education that promote, protect, and strengthen Jewish values in democracy, human rights, ethical leadership, and cultural pluralism. The Legacy Project at CCM is an interdisciplinary initiative that presents engaging lectures for students, faculty, staff, and members of the public. The events enable audience members to learn important academic lessons outside the traditional classroom. The college is honored to offer this insightful exploration of history, policy, and the refugee experience, offering the community an opportunity to reflect on the continuing relevance of these themes in today’s discussions on immigration and human rights. For more information about CCM, visit www.ccm.edu. 





Community Poker Night to Support Local Charities in Morris Plains

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS PLAINS — The Knights of Columbus Council 3495 in Morris Plains is gearing up for an exciting evening of camaraderie and competition with their Poker/Texas Hold’em Fundraiser. Scheduled for Saturday, December 14, at The Red Oaks School, this event promises to bring together the community for a night of fun, all in support of local nonprofit charities.

The fundraiser is organized in collaboration with Mike’s Poker Tables, a trusted and state-certified operator. Proceeds from the evening will benefit numerous charitable organizations, making every hand play a contribution to meaningful causes.

Participants are invited to arrive between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. for registration and a light dinner, generously donated by local favorites Jersey Mike’s and Dunkin’ Donuts. The event will also feature a BYOB policy, allowing attendees to bring wine or beer to enhance the experience. The poker games will commence after dinner, with larger turnouts leading to bigger prize payouts—and, in turn, more funds raised for charity.

Council 3495 is encouraging everyone to spread the word among family and friends to ensure the evening’s success. “The more, the merrier,” a council representative shared. “Not only does a larger crowd make for an exciting game, but it also allows us to maximize our contributions to the community.”

Admission is payable by cash or check, and registration is easy. Interested participants can sign up by scanning the QR code on the event flyer or visiting Mike’s Poker Tables Event Page.

As the date approaches, the Knights of Columbus are hopeful for a great turnout and are thankful for the support of their sponsors and the community. “This event is a wonderful opportunity to have fun while giving back,” they said. “We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

Mark your calendars for December 14 and join the Knights for a memorable night of poker, prizes, and philanthropy.





Point Blank Guns and Ammo in East Hanover Faces Lawsuit for Unauthorized Ammunition Sales

By
Frank Cahill
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NJ Cracks Down on Gun Shops Selling Ammunition to Buyers Without Legal Permits

EAST HANOVER — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin confirmed the filing of civil lawsuits against two licensed New Jersey firearms retailers for repeatedly selling gun-related products to undercover investigators without the buyer demonstrating that they could lawfully possess a firearm. The stores are Point Blank Guns and Ammo LLC in East Hanover and Butch’s Gun World in Vineland. Each store’s sales included selling a 1,000-round case of AR-15 rifle ammunition for cash. Such unsafe and irresponsible sales are unlawful, and these suits aim to deter such conduct in the future. (Click here to download Butch’s Gun World complaint – Click here to download Point Blank Guns and Ammo complaint).

Today’s actions enforce compliance with this important requirement, which protects the public against threats and gun violence by persons who acquire gun-related products even though they cannot lawfully possess them. Such persons include, though are not limited to, persons with prior felony convictions, persons prohibited from having firearms pursuant to domestic violence restraining orders, those on terrorist watch lists, persons who were previously confined for mental health disorders, and more.

“Keeping guns out of the wrong hands is a critical public safety priority. That is why the Legislature required New Jersey’s gun industry to adopt meaningful measures to avoid selling ammunition and other gun-related products to people who cannot legally possess a gun,” said Attorney General Platkin. “The compliance requirements this law imposes are no different from the types of demands we place on other industries that create a hazard to human health, and we will enforce our law.”

“Almost a year ago, we put the gun industry on notice with our first actions under the 2022 legislation. That law requires anyone selling gun-related parts, including ammunition, to take steps to ensure that they are selling only to those legally permitted to possess firearms,” said Ravi Ramanathan, Director of the Statewide Affirmative Firearms Enforcement Office (SAFE). “We were disappointed to find not one, but two, gun shops selling cases of AR-15 ammunition for cash without first verifying that the buyers can lawfully possess firearms.”

Earlier this year, investigators from SAFE visited these stores and made purchases with cash.

  • In March 2024, Butch’s Gun World sold a 20-round box of .223 caliber ammunition—a high-velocity, military-standard rifle ammunition often used in AR-15-style rifles—and a handgun ammunition magazine to a first-time customer.
  • In June 2024, a different Butch’s salesperson sold a 1,000-round case of .223 caliber ammunition to a different first-time customer.
  • In March 2024, a salesperson at Point Blank Guns and Ammo sold a handgun ammunition magazine to a first-time buyer.
  • In May 2024, a Point Blank Guns and Ammo salesperson sold a 1,000-round case of .223 caliber ammunition to a different first-time customer.

In each instance, the stores did not ask to see any type of identification, permit, or credential of the purchaser. Instead, the stores made sales—including of vast quantities of lethal ammunition for cash—without any apparent steps to exclude sales to prohibited firearms possessors.

These matters are being handled by Deputy Attorneys General Jonathan Mangel, Giancarlo Piccinini, Loren Miller, and Honors Law Clerk Andrea Cavazos, under the supervision of Assistant Attorney General David Leit, of the Special Litigation Section within the Division of Law’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group.

SAFE is a first-in-the-nation office focused on firearms industry accountability. The SAFE Office was established by Attorney General Platkin in 2022 to exercise the Attorney General’s authority under the firearms public nuisance legislation, P.L. 2022, c. 56, and to facilitate the efficient and effective administration of laws pertaining to gun violence.





East Hanover’s Winter Festival Brings Holiday Cheer to the Community

By
Frank Cahill
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EAST HANOVER –= On Sunday, December 1, the East Hanover Community Partnership will host its much-anticipated annual Winter Festival at Town Hall, 411 Ridgedale Avenue. Residents are invited to come together and celebrate the holiday season with family, friends, and neighbors, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.,—all at no cost.

The Winter Festival will feature a variety of festive activities for attendees of all ages. Food stalls will offer seasonal treats, while an ice skating rink will be set up for visitors to enjoy. For the little ones and the young at heart, a miniature train ride will circle the event, adding an extra touch of holiday magic. Additionally, there will be a business fair where local vendors and artisans can showcase their crafts and products, giving the community a chance to shop for unique holiday gifts.

The festival also promises a range of games for children, along with an opportunity to meet Santa Claus himself. Kids will have the chance to share their holiday wishes, and parents can capture memorable moments with photos of Santa.

As the evening draws near, the highlight of the event will be a grand Christmas tree lighting at 6:00 p.m. Crowds will gather as the town’s tree is illuminated, marking the official start of the holiday season in East Hanover. The tree lighting ceremony is sure to bring a heartwarming close to the day, filling the air with the holiday spirit and uniting the community in celebration.

In addition to the festivities, the East Hanover Community Partnership is organizing a toy drive to support local families in need. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to contribute. The toy drive is a meaningful way for residents to give back, ensuring that every child in the community has a gift to look forward to this holiday season.

The Winter Festival will be held at 411 Ridgedale Avenue, with the East Hanover Community Partnership extending a warm welcome to everyone. For more details, you can visit their website at EastHanoverPartnership.org.

This year’s Winter Festival promises to be an unforgettable event filled with joy, generosity, and community spirit. Don’t miss the chance to make memories and celebrate the season with your East Hanover neighbors.





Pedestrian Fatally Struck on Prospect Street in Dover

By
Frank Cahill
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Dover Police. File Photo.

DOVER — On Monday, November 11, at approximately 6:04 p.m., the Dover Police Department and Dover Fire Department responded to a report of a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle in the area of 23 Prospect Street.

The pedestrian, identified as a 74-year-old female resident of Dover, was transported to Saint Clare’s Hospital Dover Campus. Tragically, despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased.

Preliminary investigation findings indicate the pedestrian was crossing mid-block, outside of a designated crosswalk. The incident remains under investigation at this time.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the victim’s family and everyone impacted by this incident. The ongoing investigation is a joint effort involving both local and county agencies, including the Dover Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to reach out to Detective Aragon at the Dover Police Department by calling (973) 366-2200, extension 4203.





Community Unites to Support Mikey Spiaggia’s Brave Fight Against Lymphoma

By
Frank Cahill
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0

HANOVER — Sixteen-year-old Mikey Spiaggia has been diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, a devastating challenge no family should have to face. Mikey is a bright, funny, and charismatic teenager who is passionate about sports, loves playing baseball, and is a loyal Raiders fan.

The journey ahead for Mikey includes intensive treatment, including a decade of chemotherapy, countless hospital visits, and hurdles that will test his family’s strength and resilience. Despite it all, Mikey approaches each day with courage and an unbreakable smile.

His family is dedicated to ensuring he receives the best care and support possible. However, the financial demands of his treatment, combined with time away from work, are significant. They are reaching out to friends, family, and the compassionate community for support during this challenging time.

Every donation will go directly toward Mikey’s medical expenses and the financial burdens that accompany his treatment. Contributions of any size will make a difference and help bring Mikey one step closer to recovery. Click here to view the GoFundMe page.

Those who wish to support are encouraged to donate and share Mikey’s story to give him the fighting chance he deserves. Any remaining funds will be donated to Goryeb Children’s Hospital in Morristown. The family deeply appreciates the love, prayers, and support from the community.

With gratitude,
The Spiaggia Family





Dover Police and Sheriff Gannon’s SLAP Program Partner for Forest Cleanup

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Dover Police and Sheriff’s Office Collect 16 Bags of Trash in Sunday Cleanup

DOVER — On Sunday, November 10, the Dover Police Department joined forces with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office SLAP (Sheriff’s Labor Assistance Program) to conduct a cleanup initiative. Volunteers gathered 16 trash bags from the wooded area at the end of Monmouth Avenue. Additionally, cleanup efforts extended to the area at the end of Livingston Avenue, known locally as “The View.”

A special thank you to Sheriff James Gannon and his team for partnering with the Dover Police and making this event a great success!

Morris County Sheriff’s Office Brings SLAP Program to Dover in Cleanup Effort




Morris County Vocational School District Celebrates 25Years of the Dance Program and 55 Years of Educational Excellence

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — This year marks two significant milestones for the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD): the 25th anniversary of its Dance Program and the 55th anniversary of the district’s inception in 1969.

From its origins as a traditional vocational school, MCVSD has evolved through the years into a leading district providing career and technical education across a broad range of fields. “These two significant milestones highlight the district’s ongoing commitment to innovation, excellence, and expanding opportunities for students in Morris County,” said Shari Castelli, Acting Superintendent of the MCVSD. 

The Academy for Performing Arts, which includes the Dance Program, offers students opportunities to work with master teachers and professional choreographers. The program has produced alumni who are performers, choreographers, and dance educators, among other professions. The annual dance performance has become a showcase event, highlighting students’ talents and growth as artists. 

In honor of the Dance Program’s 25th Anniversary, the program will host a special performance on January 18, 2025, at the County College of Morris. This celebratory event will feature a unique blend of current students, alumni, educational partners, and industry professionals. Lisa Peluso, Teacher of Dance, will choreograph a piece for alumni, and current students will perform pieces choreographed by professional alumni.

With the County College of Morris as a supportive partner, the celebration will also feature alumni who will present their own work at the concert, and professional dance companies, each employing alumni, highlighting MCVSD’s impact on the dance community. Additionally, County College of Morris’s Coordinator of Dance, Professor Terence Duncan, will collaborate with the Academy of Dance seniors to create a work as part of their Choreography I course taken at County College of Morris.  

“I am thrilled to celebrate 25 years of the dance program! I had the privilege of being a guest instructor in the program’s early years, and for the past decade, I’ve had the honor of leading it as the director. Watching our students grow, find their voice, and pursue remarkable careers, in the arts or other fields they’re passionate about, has been inspiring and shows the impact of an arts education, ” said Lisa Peluso, Teacher of Dance. 

The 25th Anniversary Dance Performance will bring together the program’s past and present. When tickets are available for the January 18th performance they will be sold on the school website.

With 55 years dedicated to career and technical education and 25 years of artistic excellence through the Dance Program, Morris County Vocational School District continues to educate students, nurturing their passions, and equipping them with valuable career readiness skills in preparation for college and careers.  

8th grade students interested in Dance or Musical Theatre may apply to the Academy for Performing Arts through the online application until November 18th. 

An academy program of the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) provides students in grades nine through twelve in-depth instruction in a specific career pathway. Students attend the academy program instead of their local high school unless the academy program is housed in their local high school. Students take their academy class each year along with the NJ State Department of Education’s academic requirements. All academy students receive a high school diploma from the Morris County Vocational School District, regardless of their academy location. Each academy has a unique academy course sequence and opportunities for internships and earning college credit. 

Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) offers a wide range of career and technical education programs that inspire and prepare students to succeed in today’s world and pursue tomorrow’s opportunities. Programs range from auto service and construction trades to healthcare sciences, global commerce, performing arts and cybersecurity. The high school offers full-time academies and share-time programs on its Denville campus. In addition, through collaboration with local school districts and the County College of Morris, MCVSD offers full-time academies and share-time programs established at off-site satellite locations. For more information visit  www.mcvts.org.





Parsippany Cube Club Hosts Thrilling Competition, Raising $1,200 for Community Initiatives

By
Frank Cahill
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The Parsippany Cube Club rubik’s cube competition

BOONTON — The Parsippany Cube Club (PCC) held its highly anticipated annual Rubik’s Cube competition on Saturday, November 9, at the Gateway Community Resource Center in nearby Boonton. The event, which ran from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., drew 20 participants, ranging from beginners to seasoned speedcubers, and attracted an enthusiastic crowd of spectators. The event was more than just a showcase of cubing prowess—it was a community-driven fundraiser that successfully raised $1,200 for local charitable causes.

Trophies given out to the winners

A Day of Fast-Paced Fun

The competition featured three main categories: the classic 3×3 Rubik’s Cube, the beginner-friendly 2×2 cube, and the Pyraminx, a triangular puzzle that offers a unique challenge. Participants showcased impressive speed and skill, with many achieving personal best times. The atmosphere was electric as each round concluded, with spectators cheering on their favorite cubers.

Nick Sota, Founder of the Parsippany Cube Club, expressed his excitement about the turnout. “We’re thrilled to see such a great mix of talent and enthusiasm,” said Sota. “This event not only celebrates the fun and challenge of cubing but also brings our community together for a good cause. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished today.”

The Parsippany Cube Club team, Dipika Sota and Ajoy Kumar, pictured with the Gateway team

Community Support and Local Sponsorships

The competition received strong backing from local sponsors, including SpeedCubeShop, a popular retailer specializing in cubing products, and Parsippany Focus, which helped promote the event. The sponsorships provided essential support, including prizes for the winners and promotional materials that added a professional touch to the event. SpeedCubeShop contributed gift vouchers and branded merchandise, while Parsippany Focus provided media coverage, helping raise awareness and attract participants.

The entry fee for competitors was set at $35, with all proceeds going directly to community initiatives. In previous years, the Parsippany Cube Club has raised significant funds for various New Jersey charities, including food pantries and youth programs. This year’s proceeds will continue to support similar causes, reflecting the club’s ongoing commitment to making a positive impact in the local area.

Micheal Shatkin, winner of the “pyraminx” event pictured with his prizes

Spotlight on Young Talent

The event highlighted the impressive skills of young cubers who have honed their techniques through the club’s regular training sessions and workshops. Founded in 2020 by Nick Sota, the Parsippany Cube Club has quickly become a hub for cubing enthusiasts, offering classes for all skill levels. Many of the day’s top performers credited their success to the training they received at the club, showcasing solve times that had significantly improved in just a few months of practice.

The competition winners were recognized in each category, with Calvin Lim dominating both the 3×3 and 2×2 events. Michael Shatkin took home first place in the Pyraminx category, rounding out an exciting day of fierce but friendly rivalry. Each winner received a trophy, an official certificate, and gift vouchers provided by SpeedCubeShop.

Competition Results:

  • 3×3 Cube:
    • 1st Place: Calvin Lim
    • 2nd Place: Michael Miloslavskiy
    • 3rd Place: Davin Hyde
  • 2×2 Cube:
    • 1st Place: Calvin Lim
    • 2nd Place: Michael Miloslavskiy
    • 3rd Place: Davin Hyde
  • Pyraminx:
    • 1st Place: Michael Shatkin
    • 2nd Place: Edward Eodice
    • 3rd Place: Alejandro Mateo

Looking Ahead: More Competitions and Community Engagement

“We couldn’t have done this without the incredible support of our sponsors, volunteers, and the entire Parsippany community,” said Sota. “This is just the beginning. We’re excited to host more events that bring people together and showcase the joy of cubing.”

For more information about upcoming events, and classes, or to get involved, visit the Parsippany Cube Club’s official website at parsippanycubeclub.org or follow them on social media for the latest updates.

This event was a testament to the growing popularity of cubing in Parsippany and highlighted the positive impact of local initiatives that blend fun, education, and philanthropy. With plans for more events in the pipeline, the Parsippany Cube Club is well-positioned to continue fostering a vibrant cubing community while making a meaningful difference.





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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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