Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Home Blog Page 241

DODD IS BACK! Dover’s Mayor James Dodd Takes the Oath Amidst a Memorable Swearing-In Ceremony

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Dover Mayor James P. Dodd solemnly swears to uphold his duties, as Judge Cecilia Sardina Guzman administers the Oath of Office.

DOVER — Although all the campaign signs from the election have been removed, one slogan remains etched in memory – “Bring Back Dodd.” On January 1, 2024, this sentiment became a reality as James P. Dodd of Dover was officially sworn in, assuming the esteemed position as the 37th Mayor of the town. The oath of office was administered during the ceremony by Judge Cecilia Sardina Guzman.

Dover, a town with a predominantly Hispanic population, regularly witnesses closely contested elections featuring rival Democratic factions. Dodd initially assumed the mayor’s office in 2003. However, his political fortunes began to wane in 2018, as Edward Correa spearheaded a successful campaign to wrest control of the Democratic municipal committee. Subsequently, Carolyn Blackman triumphed over Dodd in the following year, securing her position as Dover’s first African American and female mayor.

In the fiercely contested primary held in June 2023, Dodd ran against the incumbent, Carolyn Blackman, and the Democratic municipal chairman, Edward Correa. Dodd secured a decisive victory, garnering more than 56% of the votes, effectively eliminating Blackman and Correa from contention in the upcoming general election.

On November 7, Dodd emerged victorious in the General Election with a substantial lead, securing 1,482 votes, while his opponent Dennis Touhey received 626 votes.

On January 1, James P. Dodd Commences his Fifth Non-Consecutive Term as Mayor of the Town of Dover.

During Dodd’s swearing-in ceremony, former Mayor Carolyn Blackman was in attendance, and Mayor Dodd graciously acknowledged her presence while introducing the array of local political dignitaries typically present at such events.

Dodd administered the “Oath of Office” to Claudio P. Toro, who took on the responsibilities of Council member for the 1st ward. During the ceremony, her eleven-year-old son held the Bible.
Sergio Rodriguez, the recently elected Council member for the 2nd ward, solemnly took the oath of office administered by Mayor Dodd. During the ceremony, his wife stood by his side, holding the Bible, while their two children also participated in the momentous occasion.
Mayor James Dodd administered the oath to Arturo “AB” Santana, who assumed office as the representative for the 4th ward. Santana’s wife and children were present, observing this meaningful occasion.

Additionally, the accomplished members of the “Rescue Dover” team were sworn in alongside Mayor Dodd. This distinguished group includes Claudio P. Toro, a Council member for the first ward; Sergio Rodriguez, a Council member for the second ward; and Arturo “AB” Santana, a Council member for the fourth ward. Michael Scarneo, the Council member for the third ward, successfully secured re-election and was administered the oath of office by Mayor Dodd

Michael Scarneo, who secured re-election as the Council member for the 3rd ward, was officially sworn in by Mayor Dodd, and his wife and grandchildren hold the bible.
Jarrid H. Kantor, Esq., took center stage as Dover’s new Municipal Attorney. In a symbolic and solemn moment, Mayor Dodd had the honor of administering the oath of office, marking the commencement of Kantor’s legal stewardship over the town’s affairs
In a touching and meaningful ceremony, Judge Cecilia Sardina Guzman was sworn in as Dover’s Municipal Judge. Adding a heartwarming touch to the occasion, her children had the honor of holding the Bible during the oath-taking, symbolizing the family’s commitment to justice and the community.
Mayor Dodd had the pleasure of officiating the swearing-in ceremony for Tara Pettoni, who assumed the role of Dover’s Township Clerk for a term of three years, commencing on January 29, 2024.
Mayor Dodd also had the opportunity to swear in a new fireman, Giuseppe E. Santillo.
Dr. Edward Ramirez, D.B.A., had the privilege of inaugurating the ceremony, setting the tone for the proceedings.
James Dodd took the oath of office on New Year’s Day, in front of a packed and enthusiastic crowd that spilled beyond capacity at the Dover American Legion.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, Mayor Dodd and the Council proceeded with the reorganization meeting. The extensive agenda featured over fifty resolutions necessary for conducting business in 2024. While the majority of these items were approved smoothly, Third Ward Council member Karol Ruiz posed a series of inquiries, notably regarding the salary of the new town clerk and the appointment of police chaplains. Tensions escalated to the point where Mayor Dodd issued a warning about the potential removal of Ruiz from the meeting, citing her questions as “nitpicking” and disruptive.

The 2024 Council members are:
•Claudia P. Toro, Council Member – First Ward
(December 31, 2025)


•Sandra Wittner, Council Member – First Ward
(December 31, 2024)


•Sergio Rodriguez, Council Member – Second Ward
(December 31, 2025)


•Geovani Estacio, Council Member – Second Ward
(December 31, 2024)


•Michael Scarneo, Council Member – Third Ward (December 31, 2025)
•Karol Ruiz, Council Member – Third Ward, (December 31, 2024)
•Arturo Santana, Council Member – Fourth Ward, (December 31, 2025)
•Marcos Tapia, Council Member – Fourth Ward, (December 31, 2024)

Dover Mayor Awards Marino’s Cafe ‘Business of the Year 2024’

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Dover Mayor James Dodd has honored Marino's Cafe Restaurant with the prestigious "Business of the Year Award 2024"

DOVER — Dover Mayor James Dodd has honored Marino’s Cafe with the prestigious “Business of the Year Award 2024” in recognition of their outstanding generosity during times of crisis in Dover. This local establishment has consistently stepped up to the plate, particularly in the aftermath of emergencies, such as their recent provision of meals to the victims affected by the devastating fire on September 16.

Their unwavering commitment to the community and their willingness to lend a helping hand in times of need exemplify the spirit of compassion and solidarity that makes Marino’s Cafe Restaurant a deserving recipient of this accolade.

MArino’s Cafe is located at 90 Belmont Avenue, Dover

Marino’s Cafe is a family-owned and operated business.  They specialize in Peruvian cuisine in a family-comfortable atmosphere where you can experience what traditional and authentic Peruvian cuisine has to offer.  Marino’s Cafe prepares the dishes with the freshest locally grown produce as well as a variety of imported ingredients; combined with the results of hundreds of years of fusion from the numerous ethnicities that inhabit Peru. Exploring our website is just a first step… and so while your hunger builds up please join Marino’s Cafe to experience.

Madison Mayor Honors Jack Lutz with Mayor’s Hero Legacy Award

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

MADISON — Mayor Conley of Madison recently bestowed upon Jack Lutz the distinguished Mayor’s Hero Legacy Award as a tribute to his extraordinary 60+ years of unwavering dedication to the MVAC (Municipal Volunteer Ambulance Corps).

We wish to express our deepest appreciation to Mr. Lutz for his steadfast commitment and his unflinching readiness to be on the front lines, responding to numerous EMS calls during his extensive tenure as a devoted volunteer.

His selfless service has left an indelible and invaluable mark on our community, and we are genuinely grateful for the exceptional contributions he has made.

Christmas Tree Pickup in Hanover

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
File Photo

PARSIPPANY — Hanover Township is pleased to offer extended Christmas tree pickup services, which will continue until January 31st.

To ensure the smooth collection of your trees, kindly place them at the curb without any lights or ornaments. This extended timeframe allows residents ample opportunity to dispose of their Christmas trees conveniently and in an environmentally friendly manner.

Casa Puerto Rico Honored by Mayor Dodd

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Dover Mayor James Dodd awards a commemorative plaque to Ruben Cortes, President of Casa Puerto Rico.

DOVER —  Dover Mayor James Dodd presented a commemorative plaque to Ruben Cortes, President of Casa Puerto Rico, the longstanding Dover-based civic organization established in 1965. The plaque was presented to a local “Civic Organization of the Year” that makes a difference.

Casa Puerto Rico’s mission has been to bring together local communities, businesses, and area leaders to provide community service, foster civic engagement and leadership, drive economic growth, and strengthen the fabric of local communities.  

Ruben Cortes proudly showcases the plaque, recognizing Casa Puerto Rico as the “Civic Organization of the Year.”

Fratelli Beretta Recalls Busseto Foods Brand Ready-to-Eat Charcuterie Meat Products

By
Frank Cahill
-
0

MORRIS COUNTY — Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc., a Mount Olive, establishment, is recalling approximately 11,097 pounds of Busseto Foods brand ready-to-eat charcuterie meat products that may be contaminated with Salmonella, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The ready-to-eat (RTE) charcuterie sampler product was produced on October 30, 2023. The following products are subject to recall [view labels]:      

  • 18-oz. plastic tray packages containing “BUSSETO FOODS CHARCUTERIE SAMPLER Prosciutto, Sweet Sopressata, and Dry Coppa” with lot code L075330300 and “BEST IF USED BY APR 27 24.” The products are sold as a twin pack with two 9-oz. packages.

The products subject to recall bear the establishment number “EST. 7543B” inside the USDA mark of inspection and “EST. #47967” printed with the lot and date codes. These items were shipped to Sam’s Club distribution centers.                              

The problem was discovered when FSIS was notified that a sample collected by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture tested positive for Salmonella.

FSIS is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state public health partners to investigate a multistate outbreak of Salmonella. Minnesota collected unopened ready-to-eat charcuterie sampler products as part of the investigation. The product tested positive for Salmonella. Further testing is ongoing to determine if the product sample is related to the outbreak. The investigation is ongoing.

Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. The most common symptoms of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 6 hours to 6 days after eating the contaminated product. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days. Most people recover without treatment. In some persons, however, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Older adults, infants, and persons with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop a severe illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact their healthcare provider.

FSIS is concerned that some products may be in consumers’ refrigerators. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website by clicking here.   

Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or send a question via email to [email protected]. For consumers who need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day by clicking here.

Morris Plains Taking Applications for Substitute Crossing Guards

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
File Photo

MORRIS PLAINS — The Borough of Morris Plains is seeking applicants for Substitute Crossing Guard in the Police Department to fill shifts as needed. The salary for a Substitute Crossing Guard is $87.12 daily.

Submit the application to:
Lieutenant Robert Guild
Borough of Morris Plains
531 Speedwell Avenue
Morris Plains, NJ 07950
973-538-2284
[email protected]

 The application deadline is January 11, 2024, at 4:00 p.m., and applications can be picked up at Police Headquarters, 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains.

Remembering Officer Ohlsen: Dover Pays Tribute 20 Years After Tragic Loss

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney

DOVER — A Memorial Service in honor of Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen III, Badge #115, occurred on December 30 at Saint John’s Church, located at 11 South Bergen Street in Dover.

Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen III, Badge #115

Two decades ago, on December 30, 2003, the Town of Dover mourned the tragic loss of Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen III, Badge #115. He met his untimely end in the line of duty, while unwaveringly serving his community. Officer Ohlsen’s enduring legacy of dedication and service continues through his two sons, AJ and Trevor, who now proudly serve in the Parsippany Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. His wife, Bonnie, reflects on his passion, stating, “The police department and the racing team were what Art loved; that was his life, that’s what he did. He gave his life doing what he wanted to do.”

A Memorial Service in honor of Dover Police Officer Arthur J. Ohlsen III, Badge #115, took place on December 30 at Saint John’s Church, located at 11 South Bergen Street

Throughout the Town of Dover, Officer Ohlsen is commemorated in numerous ways. Perhaps most prominently, his artwork adorns each Town of Dover Police vehicle, featuring a 9/11 memorial he created. His class A uniform is enshrined within the Dover Police Department, reminding all officers daily of his sacrifice. Additionally, his name graces the officer down memorial in the town hall lobby.

Badge #115

Though two decades have passed since that fateful day, Officer Ohlsen’s indomitable legacy endures, and he will forever be engraved in the collective memory of the Dover Police Department and the Town of Dover. Their gratitude for Officer Ohlsen’s sacrifice, as well as the unwavering support of his family, remains eternal.

A uniform is encased in the Dover Police Department for all officers to see as a daily remembrance, and he is listed on the officer down memorial in the town hall lobby.

A uniform is encased in the Dover Police Department for all officers to see as a daily remembrance, and he is listed on the officer down memorial in the town hall lobby.

Discover the U.S. Civil War and Early American Art through Mini-Courses

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
The Friends of the Madison Public Library are set to offer winter mini-courses that delve into the U.S. Civil War and American art spanning from the American Revolution to the Civil War. Notably, the art course will explore the works of painter and illustrator Winslow Homer, who captured numerous Civil War scenes while embedded with Union troops for Harper's Weekly Magazine, including his famous painting, "Sounding Reveille."

MADISON — The Friends of the Madison Public Library are excited to introduce two new mini-courses for the Winter 2024 semester, commencing on Monday, January 29, and Wednesday, January 31.

These courses will explore the U.S. Civil War and the evolution of American art from the American Revolution to the Civil War. All sessions will be conducted in person over five consecutive weeks at the Florham Park Public Library, located at 107 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park. This arrangement is in response to ongoing renovations at the Madison Public Library.

Each mini-course is priced at $95.00 and is organized by the all-volunteer Friends of the Madison Public Library, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. All proceeds from these courses will directly benefit the Madison Public Library.

“The United States Civil War” will be led by Gary Darden, an associate professor of history and chair of the Department of Social Sciences and History at Fairleigh Dickinson University. The classes will take place on Monday afternoons from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on January 29 and February 5, 12, 19, and 26.

The lectures will delve into the significance of the Civil War in American history, tracing its origins in the practice of slavery, which was a common institution from colonial times to the first 87 years of the American republic. The period of 1860-1865 marked the most violent conflict in U.S. history, redefining democracy, citizenship, and earning the title of the “Second American Revolution” for its pivotal role in abolishing slavery and reshaping the nation.

The five lectures in this course include:

  1. “Original Sin: American Slavery from the Age of Compromise to the Age of Crisis: 1776-1859”
  2. “Ballots to Bullets: the 1860 Election to the Secession of 1860-1861”
  3. “Presidents & Generals: Strategies for Confederate Victory & Strategies for Union Victory”
  4. “Blood & Redemption in 1862: Antietam & Emancipation / Altars of Sacrifice in 1863: Gettysburg, Vicksburg & New York City”
  5. “The Long View of Union Victory in 1865: the Civil War as the Second American Revolution”

The second mini-course, titled “Art in the United States from the American Revolution to the Civil War,” will be instructed by Kimberly Rhodes, the National Endowment for the Humanities Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Humanities and a professor of art history at Drew University.

Classes will be held Wednesday mornings from 10:00 a.m. to 11:50 a.m, on January 31, February 7, 14, 21 and 28.

The series will cover the development of the visual arts in the United States from colonial times to the 1860s.

Topics will include the discussion of exchanges between European and American artists, the education of American artists in Europe and the United States, the relationship between political events and visual culture and the creation of professional institutions. Artists under discussion will include John Singleton Copley, Benjamin West, John Trumbull, Charles Willson Peale, Thomas Cole, Frederic Edwin Church and Winslow Homer.

These non-credit courses are open to the public with no prerequisites or examinations.

For more information, or to register, click here. Residents may also email [email protected] or leave a message at (929) 450-7940.

Participants will be notified by email in the event of a cancellation due to inclement weather.

Exceptional Colonial Home with Spectacular Features and Scenic Surroundings Sells for $1,150,000

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
This exquisite Colonial home located at 1 Schindler Court, boasts four bedrooms and 2.1 baths and is situated on a picturesque cul-de-sac, bordered by the serene Green Acres and overlooking Bee Meadow Park.

HANOVER — This exquisite Colonial home located at 1 Schindler Court, boasts four bedrooms and 2.1 baths and is situated on a picturesque cul-de-sac, bordered by the serene Green Acres and overlooking Bee Meadow Park. Despite its tranquil location, it’s just minutes away from schools, shopping, and Route 10. Listed by Laurie Silver-Corsello of Keller Williams Realty on June 8th for $1,199,000, it was successfully sold for $1,150,000, with Anthony Desena from Compass New Jersey, LLC representing the buyer. The property had 2022 taxes totaling $14,140.

The updated Chef’s Kitchen boasts a dolomite and glass backsplash, an expansive island, custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and GE Profile Appliances with a fingerprint-resistant finish.
The formal living room showcases the home’s versatile layout.

Built in 1997, this designer-owned home is adorned with custom features throughout. As you step inside, the two-story, sun-drenched foyer immediately captivates you. To your left, a welcoming formal dining room awaits, ideal for hosting gatherings. The formal living room showcases the home’s versatile layout.

The updated Chef’s Kitchen boasts a dolomite and glass backsplash, an expansive island, custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and GE Profile Appliances with a fingerprint-resistant finish.

The updated Chef’s Kitchen boasts a dolomite and glass backsplash, an expansive island, custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and GE Profile Appliances with a fingerprint-resistant finish. The kitchen’s large pantry adds both style and functionality to this stunning space. An adjoining spacious breakfast area offers a perfect setting for everyday dining and opens up to the beautiful front yard.

Completing the first floor is a striking powder room, a laundry room, and access to and from the two-car garage. Upstairs, four generous bedrooms await, including a sizable Primary Suite featuring two walk-in closets and a luxurious bathroom with a soaking tub, dual vanities, and a spacious shower. All bedrooms feature hardwood floors and ample closet space.

The finished basement, with new wall-to-wall carpeting, offers a blank canvas for customization to meet your unique needs. The backyard is a true spectacle, featuring a kidney-shaped in-ground pool, an expansive paver patio, and an outdoor TV. These amenities are nestled amidst mature landscaping, providing both beauty and privacy.

The backyard is a true spectacle, featuring a kidney-shaped in-ground pool, an expansive paver patio, and an outdoor TV. These amenities are nestled amidst mature landscaping, providing both beauty and privacy.

More Hanover Township home sales:

1 Schindler Court$1,150,000
1701 Rosemont Lane590,000
403 Papermill Drive510,000
57 Mount Pleasant Avenue411,000
92 Griffith Drive625,000
16 Adams Drive675,000
185 Vista Drive417,500
18 Farview Avenue560,000
14 Korda Place550,000
18 Baird Place760,000
1...240241242...694Page 241 of 694

RECENT POSTS

BUSINESS BRIEFS

LOCAL COMMUNITIES

ABOUT US

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.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2024 Zoomus Marketing, LLC.

Translate »