MADISON — In desperate need of volunteers, the ambulance corps is seeking residents who could cover a 12-hour shift once a week, or two six-hour shifts, preferably during weekdays.
About 15 residents are needed to volunteer as EMTs and ambulance drivers to restore the squad to acceptable coverage levels, a group of longtime volunteers said in an interview at the squad building. Several EMTs stopped volunteering when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020 and never returned. A number of volunteers left for various reasons in 2022, but unlike in previous eras, the corps has been unable to find new volunteers to replace them.
The volunteer shortage is presenting significant financial problems for the ambulance corps, which in turn affects residents. Reliance on professional, per-diem EMTs is sapping the MVAC’s limited budget and threatens the stability of its longtime funding model.
All new members who want to become EMTs are taught and certified in CPR and are enrolled in an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course taught by professionals in emergency medicine. Tuition is fully paid by the Corps, once you pass the course. Upon successful completion of the course, a member is certified as an EMT by the State of New Jersey.
“Serving the citizens of Madison since 1954, Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps. mission is, “To save human life, relieve the suffering of the injured, promote safety in all its branches, and provide ambulance service for those in need, principally in the Borough of Madison, New Jersey”.
It is easy to join our Corps and we welcome inquiries as to how to join. To volunteer as an EMT member, please e-mail our membership team at [email protected]. To download a membership application, click here. Email us! We would love to hear from you!
You can call the non-emergency line at (973) 377-2229 for additional details.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Mendham Township Police Chief Ross Johnson confirmed that a juvenile delinquency complaint has been filed in connection with the December 1984 death of “Baby Mary” in Mendham Township.
Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll
On Christmas Eve 1984, at approximately 10:35 a.m., two boys reported an abandoned and deceased newborn baby girl in a remote wooded area off of Mt. Pleasant Road in Mendham Township, New Jersey. Law enforcement officers located a baby girl’s body wrapped in a towel, inside a plastic bag. At the time of her discovery, the baby girl’s umbilical cord was still attached. The Medical Examiner determined the infant had been alive at the time of her birth. The death was ruled a homicide.
The baby girl, whose identity was unknown, was baptized by Rev. Michael Drury of St. Joseph Church, the Mendham Township Police Department chaplain. Father Drury named her “Mary.” Baby Mary is interred at St. Joseph’s Church in Mendham Township.
Over the last nearly four decades, investigators have vigorously pursued every lead to identify Baby Mary and learn more about the circumstances leading to her discovery in the woods. Using new technology, law enforcement networking in three states, and old-fashioned police work, investigators were recently able to identify Baby Mary’s biological father and mother.
The biological father passed away prior to being identified by investigators. There is no evidence the biological father was aware of the pregnancy, or Baby Mary’s birth or death.
The biological mother of Baby Mary was a juvenile at the time of her birth in 1984. On April 24, 2023, a juvenile delinquency complaint was filed against the biological mother of Baby Mary. She has been charged with one count of Manslaughter, an offense which would be a second-degree crime if committed by an adult.
Since the woman was a juvenile at the time of Baby Mary’s death and has been charged by way of a juvenile delinquency complaint, her name will not be released.
Prosecutor Carroll acknowledges the work of Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Deputy Chief Jan-Michael Monrad, Lieutenant Michael Gomez, Sergeant Sasha Gould, Sergeant Matthew Magnone, Detective Dakota Keyworth, and Chief Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Schellhorn; along with Morris County Sheriff James Gannon and Morris County Sheriff’s Office Detective Rosie Brown; and Mendham Township Police Chief Ross Johnson, Mendham Township Police Lieutenant Steven Bittman, Sergeant Matthew Ambrosi, and Detective James Arnesen; and Forensic Scientist Christine Schlenker of the New Jersey State Police Office of Forensic Sciences.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “This arrest is the culmination of decades of effort, across multiple generations of law enforcement. It is a tribute to the tenacity and dedication of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, our Major Crimes Unit, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Mendham Township Police Department.
The death and abandonment of this baby girl is a tragic loss and even after nearly 40 years, remains just as heartbreaking. Justice may not take the form the public has imagined all these years, but we believe with this juvenile delinquency complaint, justice is being served for Baby Mary. Nothing can right this terrible wrong. Thanks to the men and women who worked so diligently on this case, we hope the community is given a sense of closure.
We thank our law enforcement partners – Chief Ross Johnson and the Mendham Township Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division CSI and Crime Lab sections, NJSP Office of Forensic Sciences, NJSP Forensic Serology Unit, DNA Laboratory, and the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office, and our interstate colleagues from the Richland County (South Carolina) Sheriff’s Department – Criminal Investigation Division and Deputy Chief Stan Smith, the Fifth Judicial Circuit (South Carolina) Solicitor’s Office, Cape Coral (Florida) Police Department, Fort Meyers (Florida) Police Department, and the FBI, without whom this arrest would not have been possible.”
Sheriff James Gannon
Sheriff James Gannon said, “I want young parents to know that there is help available. In 1984, the Safe Haven Infant Protection Act did not exist but, on August 7, 2000, the Act became law (sponsored locally by the late Senator Anthony Bucco). The legislation allows parents or their representatives to anonymously surrender a newborn baby at any hospital emergency room, police station, fire station, ambulance, first aid, or rescue squad that are staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If the baby appears to be 30 days old or less, and free of any abuse or neglect, the baby will be accepted with no questions asked.”
For the past 39 years, the Mendham Township Police Department has pursued this investigation relentlessly to solve this case. If it were not for the hard work and dedication of our officers, who have worked on this case over the years, this case would still be unsolved.
Mendham Township Police Chief Ross Johnson said, “For the past 39 years, the Mendham Township Police Department has pursued this investigation relentlessly to solve this case. If it were not for the hard work and dedication of our officers, who have worked on this case over the years, this case would still be unsolved. Nine years ago, past Chief Steven Crawford called for a re-examination of Baby Mary’s case for the upcoming 30th anniversary. Our officers, alongside our partners from the county and state, would pursue many leads and investigative avenues, eventually bringing justice for this infant who never had a chance to fight for herself. This has been a great example of law enforcement collaboration, and I want to thank everyone who has been involved. A special thank you to both Prosecutor Carrol and Sheriff Gannon for their unwavering support and dedication to this case. I want to commend all of our current and former Mendham Township Police Officers who investigated or worked this case in one fashion or another, which helped get us here today, as well as Father Michael Drury, who made Baby Mary a part of our community and department over 30 years ago. Every Christmas Eve for the past 35 years members of our department and community have left their own families at noon to remember Baby Mary at a service by her grave, to ensure she is never forgotten. Today we are finally able to bring closure to this case and the community that has supported her.”
nourishNJ location is at 347 South Salem Street, Victory Gardens
DOVER – In a major expansion step, nourish.NJ, the Morris County-centered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, proudly announces the grand opening of its brand-new 8,000 square feet Community Hub. Designed with state-of-the-art facilities, the new hub will assist thousands who grapple with financial challenges, showcasing the organization’s dedication to uplifting the community.
nourish.NJ is located at 347 South Salem Street
Originating almost 40 years ago, nourish.NJ, formerly recognized as the Community Soup Kitchen, has been a beacon of hope in Morris County. Their relentless efforts to combat hunger, homelessness, and poverty have evolved dynamically over the years. Operating every single day of the year, the Morristown-based organization remains steadfast in its mission, embedding values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in every service it offers. Their unique strategy, emphasizing an inclusive and empowering atmosphere, stands as a testament to their dedication to maximum community aid.
Notably, the past triennium witnessed a significant upsurge in nourish.NJ’s outreach. The consequent enlargement in both their geographical footprint and program spectrum has substantially augmented their community impact. This positive trajectory reached a high point with the inauguration of their second location at 347 South Salem Street in Victory Gardens.
The Community Hub’s highlight includes a cutting-edge commercial kitchen, set to amplify the number of wholesome meals provided. Furthermore, the introduction of office quarters for the Outreach Team will streamline the provision of complimentary, user-friendly case-management services, encompassing housing assistance, health resources, and financial guidance.
MORRIS PLAINS —On Saturday, September 9, the Morris Plains Stop & Shop at 245 Littleton Road is set to undergo a magical transformation. Whispers in the community speak of a special day when brightly colored banners with the words “Feeding Our Families” will flutter proudly, beckoning residents from all corners of the Tri-State Area.
On this day, almost 200 Stop & Shop outlets will stand united with a singular, heartfelt mission: to eradicate local hunger. This monumental endeavor isn’t just the dream of the renowned grocery chain. Powerful allies have joined the cause, including the Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ), Fulfill, NBC4 New York, and Telemundo 47.
Upon arriving at Morris Plains or any participating location, eager volunteers will hand over lists to every visitor. These lists, crafted with care, will guide generous hearts, detailing the much-needed items: from baby diapers and canned goods to grains like quinoa and rice, as well as a selection of essential household and hygiene products. However, donors are advised to remember certain guidelines, especially regarding milk and perishables.
Young Jenny, an enthusiastic volunteer-to-be, shares her plans for the day. “I’m preparing to guide donors, ensuring they know what’s most needed. Like milk? Yes, but only if it’s shelf-stable or dried. No glass or perishable items.”
In the lead-up, Elizabeth McCarthy, the visionary president and CEO of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, spends her evenings pondering the event’s potential impact. She often finds herself thinking of the staggering 530,000 people, including 130,000 children in CFBNJ’s service area, who wrestle with the shadow of food insecurity. “This drive,” she says with hope in her eyes, “is for our neighbors, our friends.”
While the Morris Plains Stop & Shop prepares to play its part, whispers confirm that the initiative’s ripple effect will spread far and wide. Multiple food banks, from the Food Bank for New York City to Long Island Cares, are expected to benefit from the day’s bountiful collections.
As the day draws nearer, the Tri-State community readies itself for a day of unparalleled unity and generosity. And while it has yet to unfold, the tale of this upcoming day promises to be an enduring testament to the indomitable spirit of community collaboration.
MORRIS COUNTY — The IRS disclosed that effective from January 1, 2024, businesses should transition from paper to e-filing for Form 8300, which details cash payments exceeding $10,000. This change is in alignment with the latest regulations modifying the e-filing rules.
Cash transactions over $10,000 are reported by businesses to the U.S. government. While most of these transactions are lawful, Form 8300 assists in identifying tax evasion, illicit drug dealings, terror funding, and other crimes. Timely and accurate submissions can enable the tracking of illegal funds.
Businesses already required to e-file particular returns, like Forms 1099 series and W-2, must now e-file Form 8300 from 2024. This transition simplifies IRS interactions. If businesses need to file a minimum of 10 such forms, excluding Form 8300, they must e-file them all. For instance, if a business files five Forms W-2 and five 1099-INT, all their returns, including Forms 8300, must be e-filed. But, if there are fewer than 10 returns excluding Form 8300, they can opt to e-file or not.
Waivers Should electronic filing pose undue hardships, businesses can request a waiver using Form 8508. If granted, it covers all Forms 8300 for the year. Specific waivers for only Form 8300 aren’t available. Businesses should label paper returns with “Waiver” on the top center of the first page. Those with fewer than 10 forms can file Form 8300 on paper without a waiver or can e-file voluntarily.
Exemptions Should e-filing clash with religious beliefs, the filer is automatically exempted and should label paper returns with “RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION” on the top center.
Late Returns Late submissions should be self-labeled. If e-filed, mention “LATE” in the comments. If on paper, write “LATE” on the top center of the first page.
Recordkeeping Businesses should retain all filed Form 8300s and associated records for five years. E-filing confirms receipt but isn’t enough for recordkeeping. A saved or printed copy before final submission is necessary.
Benefits of E-filing Numerous businesses favor the e-filing system for its convenience, cost-effectiveness, and the 15-day reporting deadline post-transaction. E-filing provides a confirmation email and allows batch filings, suitable for those with multiple forms.
To e-file Form 8300, businesses should register on the BSA E-Filing System. The IRS guarantees data security.
For further details, contact the BSA E-Filing Help Desk at 866-346-9478 or [email protected] from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EST on weekdays. Additionally, visit IRS.gov for insights on e-filing Form 8300.
Former Mayor James Dodd Addresses Packed Supporters at One11 Bar
DOVER — In a recent gathering at Dover’s One11 Bar on Blackwell Street, James Dodd, the mayoral candidate, rallied strong support from attendees. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, now representing Dover following last year’s redistricting, lent her support, adding credibility to the event.
A few months ago, Dover was buzzing with excitement during a fiercely contested Democratic mayoral primary.
Rep. Mikie Sherrill, now representing Dover post-redistricting, showed support for Dodd
At the conclusion, James Dodd, the former mayor, secured a comfortable victory over incumbent Carolyn Blackman and Ed Correa. Dodd garnered approximately 50 percent of the votes, a robust figure in a three-candidate contest. As the primary recedes into the past, Dodd and his enthusiastic supporters gathered at the One11 bar on Blackwell Street for a packed house fundraiser, setting their sights on the upcoming fall election.”
Dover, a predominantly Hispanic town is known for its competitive elections featuring rival Democratic factions. Dodd initially assumed office as mayor in 2003 but encountered challenges in 2018 when Correa successfully orchestrated a takeover of the Democratic municipal committee. Subsequently, Blackman defeated Dodd in the following year’s election, becoming the town’s first Black and first female mayor.
In this predominantly Democratic town, there were no Republican candidates in the running for Mayor. However, an independent candidate, Dennis Touhey, has entered the race.
For the Dover Board of Aldermen, there was no GOP challenger in Ward One. Two Democrats were running for the one, two-year seat. They are Claudia Toro and Jessica Cruz. Cruz is the incumbent. She received 148 votes to Toro’s 165 votes.
Sergio Rodriguez Engages in Conversation with Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr
There were also three Democrats running in Ward Two.
They included incumbent Judith Rugg, Sergio Rodriguez, and Cindy Isaza. Rugg, the incumbent, received 98 votes. Rodriguez received 199 votes, while Isaza received 75 votes.
In Ward Three, no Republicans are running.
Incumbent Democrat Michael Scarneo is running for another term. He was challenged by John Londono in the Democratic primary. Scarneo was ahead with 178 votes to Londono’s 162.
Arturo Santana, Arturo Santana, Alderman – Fourth Ward, term ends December 31. He came in first place in the Primary in his ward.
In Ward Four, no Republicans are running.
The Democrats included incumbent Arturo Santana and Carlos Valencia, who ran against each other during the Primary.
Santana won with 178 votes to Valencia’s 79.
Dodd introducing candidates for the Dover Board of EducationRep. Mikie Sherrill, Sergio Rodriguez, James Dodd, Arturo Santana, and Morris County Democratic Chairwoman Amalia Duarte.Rep. Mikie Sherrill, James Dodd, Morristown Mayor Timothy Dougherty, and Morris County Democratic Chairwoman Amalia Duarte.
MORRIS COUNTY — Lehigh University is thrilled to officially welcome the Class of 2027. The incoming class represents an accomplished, diverse group of students who represent 49 U.S. states and territories and 51 countries. Congratulations on your enrollment at Lehigh – we are proud to call you one of our own! Local students include:
Christopher Anderson of Madison
Sarah Giraldo of Madison
Liam O’Hearen of Madison
Claire Sheeleigh of Madison
John Richard Perez of Boonton
Dylan Dancsecs of Mountain Lakes
Peyton Sward of Florham Park
For more than 150 years, Lehigh University (lehigh.edu) has combined outstanding academic and learning opportunities with leadership in fostering innovative research. The institution is among the nation’s most selective, highly-ranked private research universities. Lehigh’s five colleges – College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, College of Education, College of Health, and the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science – provide opportunities to 7,000+ students to discover and grow in an academically rigorous environment along with a supportive, engaged campus community.
MORRIS COUNTY — It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Summer 2023 President’s List. The summer terms run from May to August.
Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.
Danielle DiSessa of Morris Plains
Yatindra Rani of Boonton
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit institution with a 90-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 170,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH. Recognized as one of the “Most Innovative” regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high-quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner. Learn more by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Cryptologic Technician Collections 2nd Class Ezekiel Washington, left, from North Augusta, S.C., and Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Nicholas Spadone, from Denville, plot during a visual information personnel drill aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is currently underway conducting routine operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brittney Camacho-Pietri).
MORRIS COUNTY —Morris County School of Technology achieved a noteworthy ranking of #83 on the official “2023-2024 Best High School Rankings list” released by U.S. News & World Report. This positioning is specific to the state of New Jersey. Nationally, the school secured the #1,773 spot. It ranked overall score 89.97/100.
The rankings encompass an evaluation of approximately 18,000 public high schools at various levels: national, state, and local. This year’s rankings spotlight schools where students exhibit exceptional outcomes, exceeding expected standards, which includes achieving commendable graduation rates.
For the complete report, you can access it by clicking here.
