Morris Plains Borough Police Chief Michael Koroski and Robin Hughes, JBWS Domestic Violence Specialist.
MORRIS COUNTY – During the Annual Luncheon, the Morris County Chiefs Association paid tribute to the departing 2023 President, Chief Ross Johnson of Mendham Township, and extended gratitude to our Honorary Chief of Police, Robin Hughes, the JBWS Crisis Response Team Manager.
Commissioner Tayfun Selen, Commissioner Director John Krickus, Commissioner Doug Cabana, Mendham Twp. Police Chief Ross Johnson, Commissioners Deborah Smith and Stephen Shaw.
The Morris County Correctional Facility, located at 43 John Street in Morris Township, serves as the primary detention center operated by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.
MORRIS COUNTY – Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Sheriff James M. Gannon, and Hanover Township Police Chief Michael Loock confirmed the arrest of Anthony Dello-Russo, 27, Hanover Township, on multiple drug-related offenses.
Over the past several months, members of several law enforcement agencies jointly conducted an investigation into Anthony Dello-Russo concerning the alleged unlawful distribution of controlled dangerous substances.
On December 8, 2023, detectives front the agencies seized over one-half ounce of suspected cocaine, over five pounds of marijuana, and over $51,000 in cash during a coordinated law enforcement operation.
As a result of this investigation to date, Dello-Russo has been charged with second-degree Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute; third-degree Possession of Cocaine; second-degree Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute; third-degree Possession of Marijuana; and third-degree of Money Laundering.
In accordance with the Criminal Justice Reform Act, Dello-Russo has been lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a first appearance.
Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime and Special Enforcement Units, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hanover Township Police Department for their efforts during this ongoing investigation.
If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite these accusations, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until they have each been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
John Czuczak, State Farm Sales Representative, pictured alongside Nick Scarpetis, General Manager of Staples.
PARSIPPANY – Said Shamsudin State Farm agency recently joined the ‘Staples Small Business Showcase,’ a program designed to facilitate interaction between local small businesses and non-profit organizations with the community. This event provided an opportunity for these businesses to engage with local shoppers and introduce their products and services to the general public.
Said Shamsudin State Farm provides Parsippany and the Greater Morris County community with products and services to insure them from life’s uncertainties and prepare them for the future. Vision: To be the Insurance Consultant of choice by being innovative, and community collaborative, while providing service beyond the policy to customers we are privileged to serve.
Said Shamudin has been in the Insurance Industry for over 10 years
It’s worth noting that the ‘Staples Small Business Showcase’ is a feature available to members of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC).
For those interested in participating in this program, member businesses and local non-profit groups can contact Frank Cahill at (973) 559-6000. Staples is conveniently located in the Arlington Shopping Center at 760 Route 46, with store hours from Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For inquiries, you can also reach Staples at (973) 541-0300.
Parsippany Hills High School Key Club Delights Seniors with Dinner and Spectacular Play
PARSIPPANY – The Parsippany Hills High School Key Club graciously served dinner to senior citizens from the local area. As the seniors enjoyed their meal, the characters from the upcoming play introduced themselves, adding a personal touch to the evening. After the satisfying dinner, the guests were treated to a captivating performance of “Marian, or The True Tale of Robin Hood,” skillfully presented by the talented students of Parsippany Hills High School.
Sophomores Bhavnoor Kavu and Aadya Muley, Key Club members at Parsippany Hills High School, share smiles as they serve a heartwarming dinner to the honored guests before the eagerly awaited performance of ‘Marian, or The True Tale of Robin Hood’Characters of the production “Marian, or The True Tale of Robin Hood”Lady Shirley and MuchRobinhood and Little John
Parsippany Hills High School Key Club is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. High school student members of Key Club perform acts of service in their communities, such as cleaning up parks, collecting clothing, and organizing food drives. They also learn leadership skills by running meetings, planning projects, and holding elected leadership positions at the club, district, and international levels.
Denny: The Inspiring Journey of an Australian Shepherd with Limited Vision and Deafness. This is Denny at Six Months of Age
PARSIPPANY – In a world filled with stories of malnourished and neglected puppies, let us share a heartwarming tale of determination and compassion. These exceptional dogs, once destined for euthanasia and viewed as mere inventory to be discarded when unsold, have been granted a second chance at life. Among these rescues is Sinatra, now known as Denny, an eight-week-old Australian Shepherd with limited vision and deafness.
When Denny arrived at Wise Animal Rescue, his vision and hearing impairments were initially unknown, as rescue organizations typically lack medical records or information about the puppy mills these dogs originate from. Fortunately, a vigilant foster parent recognized the issues and promptly sought veterinary care, confirming the diagnosis. Despite the emotional revelation, everyone involved remained steadfast in their commitment to finding Denny a loving and suitable forever home, regardless of the time it might take.
Finding an adopter for a special needs pup presented a challenge, with no applications received until Kristin’s. Her heartfelt comment on the application, “We have three dogs, two mini Aussies, and one lab/beagle mix who is partially blind! Our family is cute and could use one more nugget! ‘Denny would be a great addition to our family, and we look forward to taking care of him,’ said Kristin.”
Wise Animal Rescue couldn’t have found a more perfect match willing to take on this challenge. After discussing Denny’s disabilities with Kristin and completing the vetting process, Wise believed this was the right fit and was excited to know Denny would have a wonderful life. Now at six months old, Denny enjoys a life filled with love and snuggles. Kristin joyfully shares, “Denny is so cute, he is such a happy pup and loves everyone, people and animals! He has no idea that he is any different than other dogs, he loves life, and we are so happy to have found him.”
Kristin shared more insights about her life with Denny:
What made you adopt a special needs pup? “We wanted to adopt a dog who may have a more difficult time being adopted, and we have lots of experience with Australian shepherds!”
What have you been doing to enhance both your lives? Training, etc. “We have been using mostly touch training to teach him commands since we don’t know exactly what he can see out of his eye. He is very eager to learn new things and he also loves to play fetch!”
Where does he sleep? “Denny sleeps in his crate at night; during the day, he likes to sleep wherever we are!”
What is the care that is needed? “He needs help figuring out new spaces. If a wall, table, tree, fence, etc., is on his left side and he is not familiar with it yet, he might run into it or hit his head. So we stay close to him and help him map out his space so he can navigate it freely! He also has a powder for his eyesight (to hopefully preserve what he has) that we add to his food.”
What do you find the biggest challenge? Reward? “The biggest challenge is communication with Denny, but we have figured out the best ways to communicate with him! The biggest reward is seeing him play with his siblings and friends, learning new things, and snuggling!”
Can you just tell us some of the things he does that make you laugh or smile? “Denny is very silly, loves to have zoomies (he has a pretty specific path that he has for zooming so he doesn’t crash), and whenever you sit on the ground, he comes right over and sits on your lap.”
What is a typical day for you both? “Denny wakes up around 7:00 a.m. for a little snuggle out of his crate before going outside to go to the bathroom and play with his siblings! Then he eats breakfast and has another play session before his morning nap. He eats lunch and plays some more before his afternoon nap! He likes to go for a walk or play outside some more before he has dinner, then has an after-dinner fetch session before he settles down for the night!”
Anything else you would like to let us know about your life with Denny? “Denny is so cute, he is such a happy pup and loves everyone, people and animals! He has no idea that he is any different than other dogs; he loves life, and we are so happy to have found him!”
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Kristin and Wise Animal Rescue for their dedication to saving these often-overlooked pups and bringing together the worlds of humans and disabled dogs. Stay tuned for more heartwarming tales in “The Trials and Tribulations of Being a Foster.”
For more information on Wise Animal Rescue, click here.
Wise Animal Rescue (WISE), based in Parsippany, is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of dogs of all breeds. We are comprised of a network of caring people with a grassroots approach working towards a world where no dog is neglected, abused, or homeless.
WISE rescues dogs of all ages and breeds from unsafe environments as well as those who are abandoned or surrendered.
Partnering with veterinary practices that support their work, they can save dogs’ lives and restore them to health.
PARSIPPANY – Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella is set to address a crucial issue that has been generating widespread concern in the community. On Wednesday, December 13, at 6:30 p.m., a town hall meeting titled “The Dangers Of Taxpayer-Funded Private Development In Parsippany” will be held at the Parsippany Main Public Library, located at 449 Halsey Road.
This informative session will feature guest speakers including School Board Member Elect Andy Choffo and Ken Kaplan of KenKap Realty. The focus of the discussion will be the potential hazards associated with Mayor James Barberio’s current endeavor to rapidly grant substantial tax breaks for private developers during a lame-duck Council session.
One aspect of this situation is the attorney representing all six of the proposed PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) programs, which have garnered support from the Mayor and four sitting council members. The attorney in question is none other than former Township attorney John Inglesino, who served during Barberio’s initial Mayoral term between 2010 and 2017.
At a recent council meeting, a significant number of residents and school board members voiced their concerns regarding these PILOT programs. They highlighted how tax exemptions for private developments could have a detrimental impact on the township’s finances, school system, government resources, and the residents themselves.
This town hall meeting serves as a platform for open discussion, providing the community with valuable information about the potential consequences of these tax breaks and the importance of safeguarding the township’s well-being. Councilman Musella, along with his esteemed guest speakers, is committed to ensuring that residents are well-informed and engaged in the decisions that will shape the future of Parsippany.
This press release was submitted by Councilman Justin Musella.
PARSIPPANY – Mayor James R. Barberio cordially invites you to the Menorah Lighting event on Wednesday, December 13 at 7:00 p.m. at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard (Corner of Rt. 46W and Parsippany Blvd).
Let’s illuminate the night together with the glow of unity and joy.
MORRIS COUNTY – Morris Habitat for Humanity, a major builder and leading advocate for affordable housing in New Jersey, has named Jack Koeppe as its chief financial officer.
Koeppe also joins Morris Habitat’s executive team.
“We are excited to welcome Jack as an integral member of the Morris Habitat family,” said Liz DeCoursey, Morris Habitat CEO.
Liz DeCoursey, Morris Habitat CEO
“He brings a wealth of experience with over 35 years of accounting and finance expertise. Morris Habitat is a complex organization with home building, home repair, and retail operations. Jack is enthusiastic about connecting with our team, understanding the intricacies of our organization, and identifying opportunities to enhance the services we offer.”
Koeppe, of Newfoundland, says he looks forward to the post.
“I am excited to take on this new role to support our critical mission of building and improving affordable housing for families here in New Jersey,” said Koeppe.
“Working in partnership with our valued team members, donor base and volunteer network, I look forward to assisting the organization as it takes bold action to further expand its impact on communities across Morris and Middlesex counties and beyond.”
Previously, Koeppe served as founder and principal of North Star Capital Group, a real estate investment company whose mission is to give people a better place to live. He has also served in a variety of finance, controller, accounting, and audit positions at Realogy Holdings Corporation, Weichert Workforce Mobility, Core Laboratories, Borg-Warner Security Corporation, and Deloitte.
Koeppe holds a Master of Business Administration from Seton Hall University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Saint Peter’s University. He is also a Certified Public Accountant.
Morris Habitat for Humanity builds more than just homes—the organization empowers families to build brighter futures for generations to come. Home is the foundation to achieve the strength, stability, and self-reliance that people need to shape a better tomorrow for themselves and their families, says the organization, which is based on Salem Street in the township.
Additionally, every home constructed helps to strengthen the fabric and economies of local communities for all citizens.
Randolph Project
Currently, the organization’s largest project to date, “The Crossings at Bennett Avenue,” is nearing completion on Bennett Avenue in Randolph Township.
Buildings one and two will be completed this year. Buildings 3 and 4 will be completed next year. The project consists of 25 units in four buildings. There will be three bedrooms in seven of the homes, two bedrooms in 14, and one bedroom in four.
Low-income families will pay $90,000 for a one-bedroom unit or $110,000 for a two-bedroom unit. Moderate-income families will pay $130,000 for a one-bedroom unit, $170,000 for a two-bedroom unit, or $190,000 for a three-bedroom unit.
Twenty-five new condos and a community room will be built on the former E.A. Porter industrial site on Bennett Avenue. Residents will enjoy a picnic area, a play area, and a bike path to stores and restaurants on South Salem Street. The 2.5-acre property was acquired by Randolph Township in 2008 through tax foreclosure and was donated to Morris Habitat. The township was responsible for environmental remediation, demolition of existing structures, site design, approvals, and permitting.
Morris Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization, Habitat for Humanity International, committed to building homes, communities, and hope. The organization, which is one of the leading builders of affordable housing in New Jersey, serves 68 municipalities in Morris and Middlesex Counties and the Greater Plainfield area. Through volunteer labor and monetary donations and materials, Morris Habitat builds affordable new homes and provides home repair services to income-eligible families and individuals. Since 1985, Morris Habitat has served nearly 1,000 families by building 188 local homes, preserving 431 homes for low-income and senior residents, and helping 373 families with housing solutions worldwide. The local affiliate organization has engaged more than 150,000 volunteers in its various programs. Morris Habitat also operates a successful ReStore home improvement and furnishings outlet in Randolph which has kept 17,588 tons of reusable materials out of landfills and funded 36 homes.
For more information click here or call (973) 891-1934.
HANOVER – Hanover Township has received several inquiries from homeowners requesting guidance as to what actions or precautions can be taken if they see a coyote in their neighborhoods. In this regard, the Township reached out to the Wildlife Services of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for helpful tips.
Here is what Wildlife Services said:
Keep your distance and do not feed coyotes or any other wildlife.
Be a responsible pet owner by keeping your dog on a leash. Do not leave pets unsupervised even in your backyard.
If you should see a coyote, make loud noises to scare it off.
If you are in the territory of a coyote, it will follow you until you are out of its area and are not a threat.
Coyotes are active at all hours of the day and night. However, they are not an immediate threat and cannot be trapped if they have not caused harm to life or property.
Rabid coyotes are symptomatic, that is, they foam at the mouth, walk in tight circles, and have trouble walking straight. In the event, someone is bitten by a coyote, dial 9-1-1 for medical assistance.
If a coyote causes “property damage” including biting a pet, digging a hole under a shed or other structure, or building a den in your yard, a homeowner, or a homeowners’ association (in the case of a condominium development, should contact a private service to trap the coyote.
In recent phone calls from residents, Mayor Gallagher pointed out that overdevelopment in the region has caused wildlife such as coyote, fox and bear to find new habitats thereby making contact with humans more frequent. He stated that this requires everyone to be vigilant in protecting themselves, family pets, and property.
For more information concerning coyotes and other wildlife, you can contact the Division of Wildlife Services at Wildlife.org or call the hotline at (908) 735-4513, Mondays through Fridays between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Brian J. Cahill, Michael A. Mihalko, Ronald F. Francioli, John L. Ferramosca, and Thomas "Ace" Gallagher
HANOVER – The Township Committee of the Township of Hanover has scheduled a meeting for Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. This meeting will include an in-person, open public conference and a closed executive session for legal and personnel matters. The gathering will take place in Conference Room “A” at the Township Municipal Building, situated at 1000 Route 10 West in Whippany.
At 8:00 p.m. on the same day, the governing body will convene its Regular, Open Public Meeting in the Main Public Meeting Room. During this session, formal actions will be taken. Members of the public are cordially invited to attend both the conference and the regular meeting.
