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

By
Frank Cahill
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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
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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
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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

Luxurious Three-Story Pershing Townhome in The Collection at Morris Plains Finds New Owner

By
Frank Cahill
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0
The Collection at Morris Plains showcases paved multi-use trails that meander throughout the community’s gorgeous lush greens for healthy, leisurely living.

MORRIS PLAINS — In a recent real estate transaction that turned heads in Morris Plains, 7 Coogan Court, a stunning three-story Pershing Townhome, part of The Collection at Morris Plains, changed hands. The property, originally listed for sale on August 8, garnered significant attention in the market with an initial price tag of $780,940. Debra A. Glatz, representing Lennar, served as the listing agent for this exquisite end-unit townhouse, which ultimately sold for $769,990. The transaction was skillfully facilitated by Evelyn Wierichs of Coldwell Banker Realty, who represented the buyer.

This splendid home offers not only an attached two-car garage but also a bonus room that opens onto a private patio, perfect for those seeking indoor-outdoor living. Inside, the open-concept main living space is bathed in natural light, thanks to an abundance of windows and a sliding door that leads to a second-story deck. Boasting three bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, this residence offers over 2,400 square feet of living space, creating an inviting and spacious environment for its new owners.

The main living level features nine-foot ceilings and wall-to-wall hardwood floors, elevating the elegance of the interior. The heart of the home is undoubtedly the spectacular kitchen, which showcases Silestone quartz countertops, a center island, shaker-style cabinets, and stainless steel appliances—ideal for those who love to cook and entertain.

The owner’s suite offers both function and comfort with a generously sized walk-in closet and an ensuite bathroom featuring a double vanity with a quartz countertop. In addition, the hall bathroom also boasts a double vanity sink, adding convenience and luxury for the two additional bedrooms.

Beyond the remarkable features of this home, its location is equally appealing. Situated in Morris Plains, residents can enjoy the convenience of local shopping, fine dining options, and easy access to transportation, including a train route to New York City.

Property taxes for 7 Coogan Court are estimated at $1,358 per month, and homeowners’ association (HOA) fees amount to $360 per month, making this prestigious townhome an attractive investment in a highly sought-after community.

More recent home sales in Morris Plains include:

Street AddressSales Price
44 Lakeview Drive$660,000
16 Maple Avenue730,000
14 Coogan Court739,990
63 Whitney Avenue965,855
30 Beaver Ridge Road649,000
7 Coogan Court769,990
11 Grove Avenue625,000
123 Mountain Way742,000
1 Coogan Court769,990

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with First Night Morris 2024

By
Frank Cahill
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0
The 32nd Anniversary of First Night Morris County will take place on December 31 in Morristown.

MORRIS COUNTY — The 32nd Anniversary of First Night Morris County will take place on Sunday, December 31 in Morristown. First Night Morris County is an alcohol-free and substance-free celebration of arts and culture.

This year there will be over 70 live performances, 20 venues, and 50+ on-demand films taking place from 4:00 p.m. to midnight in downtown Morristown.

Events include:

•Theatre, music (rock, jazz, classical, opera), visual arts, film festivals, children’s programs, and so much more.
•Fireworks at 9:15 p.m., and the program concludes with a Midnight Countdown Featuring Fireworks to Welcome in the New Year.
•Complimentary Shuttles Start at 4:45 p.m.
•Children’s Fun Festival at Morristown High School from 4:45 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
•Film Festival Starting at 6:00 p.m.
•Complimentary Parking at any Morristown Parking Garage Starting at 4:00 p.m.
•Complimentary Mobile App & Print Program
•On-Demand Access from 4:00 p.m. on December 31, 2023, to 4:00 p.m. on January 1, 2024

Your First Night Morris County admission button (ticket) gives you access to innovative, diverse, and high-quality performances ideal for participants of all ages.

In-person venues are within close walking distance of one another, and virtual programs are accessible through the mobile app or website. For one affordable price, you and your friends and family will enjoy unlimited access to all performances in person, streaming, or on-demand.

Prices are $30.00 per ticket and $23.75 per ticket for a family of 4 packs.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Hanover Township Committee to Convene for 2024 Reorganization Meeting

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Brian J. Cahill, Michael A. Mihalko, Ronald F. Francioli, John L. Ferramosca, and Thomas "Ace" Gallagher

HANOVER — The Hanover Township Committee is set to convene its highly anticipated 2024 Reorganization Meeting on January 4, 2024, commencing at 6:00 p.m. The gathering will take place at the Main Meeting Room, located within the Municipal Building at 1000 Route 10 in Whippany.

The primary objective of this meeting is to restructure the Hanover Township Committee for the year 2024. In addition to this pivotal reorganization process, the meeting will also serve as a regular session dedicated to addressing essential matters on Municipal Government affairs.

The public is cordially invited and strongly encouraged to participate in this significant event. The Township Committee places great value on the input and engagement of the community during this essential phase of organizational transition.

Serious Home Invasion Incident Sparks Alarm on Riverside Drive

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

FLORHAM PARK — On the morning of Friday, December 29, around 4:50 am, a serious security incident occurred on Riverside Drive. A home invasion took place while the homeowners were asleep upstairs. Two intruders broke in through a kitchen window and searched the house, possibly for car key fobs. They activated a living room motion sensor, setting off an alarm, and fled before police arrived. Security footage shows two suspects, one in a vest resembling those worn by delivery workers.

Florham Park Police is asking residents near Roosevelt Boulevard, Hillside Avenue, Lincoln Avenue, Riverside Drive, and West End Avenue to check their security cameras for any activity from 4:30 a.m. to 5:15 a.m. that might help identify a vehicle related to this crime.

Please contact Detective Sergeant Frank Pietropinto with any information at (973) 410-5424. For community safety, we advise against scheduling overnight deliveries, recommend keeping exterior lights on, and suggest installing alarms with window breaks and motion sensors.

Report any suspicious activities, individuals, or vehicles to the police immediately.

The suspects are believed to be connected to similar crimes in Livingston and Chatham. With an increase in home invasions, we encourage not leaving valuables or key fobs visible in your homes. Keeping items like purses, wallets, and keys hidden, especially near windows and doors, can help prevent such incidents.

Kyle Meyer Kills Dad With Axe, Pole Saw According to Public Records

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Greg Meyer

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — A Boonton Township man who used an axe and battery-operated pole saw to kill his dad had been battling addiction and mental illness, according to family and police paperwork. The family now set up a GoFundMe Account to help with expenses.

Click here to view the GoFundMe page.

Around 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, December 24th, a blood-soaked axe and a battery-operated pole saw were discovered near the lifeless body of 61-year-old Gregory Meyer. This grim discovery occurred at the residence on Old Denville Road, where he lived with his 33-year-old son, Kyle.

“In losing Greg on Christmas Eve, our family lost a son, brother, uncle, and father. Along with our extended family and friends, we are grieving the death of a man who brought music, laughter, and love to our lives,” said Matthew Meyer, organizer of the GoFundMe page.

“We are grieved beyond words that Greg was taken from us by his own son, who for many years has been lost in the darkness of mental illness, alcoholism, and abuse of drugs legal and illegal. Our family is suddenly faced with many burdens from this unbearable tragedy. We appreciate your prayers, your well-wishes, and whatever assistance you may be able to share.”

Specifically, we need help to:

  • provide Greg a burial in the same cemetery where his father was laid to rest (~$10,000);
  • pay for all the related costs of casket, funeral home, transportation, etc. (more than $10,000);
  • provide for future support for Greg’s 94-year-old mother and other needs the family faces in this ongoing trauma.

    Click here to view the GoFundMe page.

    According to records, Kyle’s grandmother, who was also a resident of the same home, reported being alone with both Gregory and Kyle at approximately 12:50 p.m. She recounted hearing a heated argument between the father and son, which escalated into shouts, followed by screams, and then an eerie silence.

    In response to the unsettling events, she reached out to Kyle’s aunt, another member of the household, who promptly returned home. It was upon her arrival that she witnessed Kyle hastily leaving the premises. She proceeded to investigate the situation further and discovered Gregory’s lifeless body in the basement, as indicated in the complaint.

    Police documentation reveals a trail of blood leading from the basement where Gregory Meyer’s body was found, up the staircase, and into Kyle’s bedroom, adding to the disturbing details surrounding the incident.

    As of Thursday, December 28, over $7,750 had been raised.

    Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200, the Boonton Township Police Department at (973) 402-4000, or Morris County Crime Stoppers at (973) 267-2255.

    Persons reporting any information may remain anonymous. Information on how to leave an anonymous call or text message can be found at the Crime Stoppers Program website at www.morriscrimestoppers.org.

    Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Friday Nights at Mennen Returns

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

HANOVER — The New Jersey Coalition for Education and Positive Choices, in partnership with Mennen Arena, is spearheading a highly acclaimed initiative, “Friday Nights at Mennen.”

This endeavor offers families, particularly children, the chance to enjoy a safe, supervised, and healthy environment while having fun with friends, all free from the influence of drugs.

Many of the scheduled nights will feature diverse themes, with the dual purpose of keeping our children entertained during a season when outdoor options are limited and fostering their curiosity in new and engaging activities.

The cost of each night will be $9.00 per person (normally $15) and includes skate rental from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. while enjoying a night of music by the great DJ Earl. This program begins on Friday, January 5 and runs through Friday, March 8.

Mennen Arena has a snack bar which will be open throughout the evening.

Mennen Arena is located at 161 Hanover Avenue, Morristown.

Many of the nights will have different themes with a goal not only to entertain our children at a time of year when outdoor activities are limited, but also to create interest in activities, hobbies, and possible future career opportunities that they might not have otherwise been exposed.

Future highlights include Law Enforcement Night. Firefighter Night. Martial Arts and Fitness Night. Dance Night. Many township police departments and law enforcement agencies will be on hand to display equipment explain its purpose and most importantly, allow the youngsters to meet and greet true heroes. Photo IDs supplied by the Morris County Sheriff’s Department are free to any child who would like one. For more information click here.

For additional information email Thomas “Ace” Gallagher at [email protected].

Hanover Mental Health Symposium

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher

HANOVER — The Mental Health Symposium, organized by Hanover Township Mayor Thomas Ace Gallagher,  provided interested family members and friends with crucial information about where and how to receive information about addiction services, crisis hotlines, and primary and elder care services. This Mental Health Symposium,  organized and designed to help raise mental health awareness, will be replicated throughout several participating municipalities.

Although the pandemic may be over, the impact of this once-in-a-lifetime event lingers. Begin you and your family’s journey to mental wellness here.

Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, one of the founders of the N.J. Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices, invites you to watch this video recap of a recent ground-breaking Symposium on Mental Health where you will be introduced to professionals from all walks of life.  The members of the Symposium, and authorities in their respective fields, are working together to provide you with a better understanding of how mental wellness can be improved in individuals of all ages. Included in the video is crucial information on resources that are available to you at no cost. 

This Symposium on Mental Health is the first of a series of Symposiums that will be scheduled in communities throughout North Jersey. This video is an opportunity for you and your family to take that first step toward improved mental health and wellness.

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