HANOVER — Hanover Township Recreation’s Summer Concert Series presents Dr. K’s Motown Revue on Monday, July 17. Experience the magic of the 60s through the energetic performances of this talented group of singers and musicians. Back by popular demand after headlining the Hanover Township Recreation Patriotic Celebration in 2022, Dr. K’s is sure to deliver a memorable show.
The concert will take place at Brickyard Field in Whippany, starting at 7:00 p.m. Convenient parking is available at Bee Meadow Pool, with additional parking at Bee Meadow School for overflow. A complimentary shuttle service will be provided for your convenience.
While enjoying the music, satisfy your hunger by visiting the concession stand operated by Boy Scout Troop #155. All proceeds from the concession stand will support the scouts’ projects. Additionally, the Knights of Columbus Elizabeth Ann Seton #6904 will collect non-perishable food items, so please consider donating to support their cause.
We want to thank our generous sponsors for making the Music Under the Stars concerts possible and free for the public.
Exciting Milestone Reached as Construction Begins on First Phase of Valley View Park in East Hanover, Boasting 239 Units
EAST HANOVER — Exciting developments are underway at a property in East Hanover that formerly served as the North American headquarters of a renowned cookie giant. Kushner Real Estate (KRE) has recently initiated the construction of the initial phase of an ambitious redevelopment project. This marks the beginning of a significant transformation for the site. Stay tuned for updates on this major endeavor as East Hanover prepares for remarkable changes from KRE’s redevelopment efforts.
Valley View Park, a groundbreaking project by KRE Group, is set to rejuvenate approximately 74 acres of land along River Road and Deforest Avenue in a location that previously accommodated Mondelez offices. Having obtained approval from the East Hanover Planning Board in August 2021, the real estate company is embarking on a residential development featuring 548 units. This ambitious endeavor promises to bring the area new life and vibrant living spaces, marking a significant milestone for the community.
The initial portion of Valley View Park will consist of five four-story buildings set to include a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences, plus limited three-bedroom homes. The first phase will feature 239 units, 34 reserved for low- and moderate-income residents.
Valley View Park will eventually become part of KRE Group’s “Garden Collection,” including more than a dozen rental communities across the tri-state area. KRE Group President Jonathan Kushner said the project will impact the area.
“In supply-constrained markets like many towns in Morris County, new rental communities such as this one play an important role in attracting new residents and retaining existing residents, with a modern housing and lifestyle option at an attractive price point,” he said. “We’re excited to enter the East Hanover market and look forward to delivering a high-quality residential development to this well-located and desirable suburban community.”
Valley View Park will include a central clubhouse offering residents lifestyle amenities such as a community great room, party room with fireplace, fitness center, yoga room, and a children’s playroom.
Open-air amenities and landscaping details will complement the community and include a swimming pool, covered loggia with outdoor fireplace, BBQ grills, outdoor dining areas, an outdoor bar, outdoor televisions, firepits, a gaming lawn, a community garden, a dog park, children’s outdoor play area, and a community walking trail.
Valley View Park is the second Kushner-related development in East Hanover. Kushner Companies, a separate entity from KRE, broke ground last year on 72 Eagle Rock Avenue, a 265-unit township development slated for completion in early 2025.
HANOVER — Congratulations to Julia Swan of Whippany for being named to the Honors Lists for the Spring 2023 semester at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Metropolitan Campus in Teaneck.
Julia is a graduate of Whippany Park High School.
We applaud Julia’s dedication and hard work in achieving this recognition. The Honors Lists typically highlight students with exceptional academic performance during the semester. It’s an impressive accomplishment that reflects Julia’s commitment to her studies.
We wish her continued success in her academic journey at Fairleigh Dickinson University.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Morris County Police Chiefs Association President Ross Johnson remind residents always to secure their vehicles.
Major hotspot municipalities in the county include Mountain Lakes. Popular vehicle thieves’ targets include BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, and Honda.
July is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. This coming month, it is expected to see a sharp increase, as has occurred over the past two years. July has been the most popular month of the year for auto thefts.
While law enforcement efforts to date have shown great promise, as auto theft is down 49.35% countywide compared to last year, continued cooperation by our citizens is vital to reducing theft opportunities when cars are left unsecured.
Residents/citizens are always reminded to lock their vehicles and residences and remove all fobs and valuables inside their cars, even if the vehicles are parked in the driveway or inside the garage.
The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Intelligence Unit, Morris County Auto Theft Task Force, and Morris County Sheriff’s Trends and Analysis Team (MCSTAT) have remained focused on combating the trend of organized thieves stealing unlocked vehicles.
These criminal enterprises have capitalized on unsecured vehicles to steal many vehicles, targeting neighborhoods where they suspect vehicles are unlocked. Thieves often operate overnight and target luxury vehicles. These criminals have been known to steal other vehicles to commit violent crimes, including robberies.
Motor Vehicle Thefts
Morris County
New Jersey
2020
269
11,785
2021
240
14,416
2022
273
15,816
2023 (as of June)
78
7,029
Of the vehicles stolen in Morris County in 2023, 72% percent were left unlocked.
Morris County accounts for 1.1% of vehicle thefts statewide.
Recent criminal behavior has included utilizing unsecured vehicles to commit burglaries and home invasions, escalating the danger of confrontation with homeowners.
We also ask you to help us solve crimes by reporting any suspicious activity you view on your surveillance cameras. Even if you are not the victim of a crime, sharing information with law enforcement can potentially assist with solving other thefts. If you have access to any suspicious camera footage, please provide a copy of it to your local police department.
Morris County Law Enforcement is working collectively to disrupt these organized thieves.
The MCPO Intelligence Unit, Morris County Police Chiefs Association, and Morris County Sheriff’s Office maintain the Auto Theft Task Force. These agencies devote resources and staff to develop intelligence, target the individuals responsible for victimizing property owners in Morris County, and work collaboratively with the New Jersey State Police to target organized criminal auto theft activity.
Another such strategy is the purchasing and utilization of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR), at key locations through Morris County and New Jersey, in a coordinated statewide network to disrupt crime. This technology is implemented through the guidelines set by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office.
Law enforcement is asking the public to do their part by taking preventative steps to secure their homes, garages, and motor vehicles. Together, law enforcement and residents can help prevent these crimes from occurring.
Morris County Prosecutor Carroll stated: “The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Intelligence Unit works with local law enforcement and is guided by intelligence to address this criminal trend. Many Morris County cars were stolen because the key fob was left inside. We implore residents not to allow criminals to take advantage of their forgetfulness – get into the routine of taking your fob with you when you park. Alarmingly, thieves have used garage door openers to access homes, potentially setting up a confrontation with residents.”
Sheriff Gannon said: “The Morris County Sheriff’s Office and our law enforcement partners set goals and objectives focused on safety. The safety of others and the safety of others’ personal property. Both are affected when a car theft occurs. Property is lost when a vehicle is stolen, and often, that vehicle is used to commit crimes against others. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Trends and Analysis Team are working diligently to ensure everyone’s safety and that their property is secure. Please do your part and be mindful of this crime trend. Be vigilant in securing your vehicle properly and be sure to share any captured alarming or odd surveillance footage with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency.”
Morris County Police Chiefs Association President Johnson stated: “Would-be thieves have ways of determining which vehicles contain key fobs without needing to look inside. Organized groups target a neighborhood and steal multiple cars and valuables inside unsecured vehicles. Making your car inaccessible is the greatest deterrent.”
Other hotspot municipalities in the county include Parsippany, Morris Township, Montville, and Morristown.
MORRIS COUNTY — The director of NewBridge Services’ highly successful alternative education and career program was honored last month by the New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies (NJAMHAA). Amy Sheppard, who runs NewBridge Jobs Plus, was among nine professionals in the state to receive the Workforce Partners in Advocacy Award. All participated in NJAMHAA’s “Diverse Faces: Partners in Care,” a campaign highlighting the impact of mental health and substance use programs at the individual level.
“We at NewBridge are incredibly proud of the work Amy and her staff do to connect with young adults and help them develop the academic and life skills necessary to build satisfying personal and professional lives,” NewBridge CEO Michelle Borden said.
Celebrating 40 Years
In its 40th year, NewBridge Jobs Plus is the longest-serving program of its kind in Morris County. The program is free to area young adults, and NewBridge provides transportation to Morris County residents. Participants learn at their own pace and receive academic support, life and professional skills training, career and college coaching, and counseling to overcome emotional challenges.
“It has been my honor to work alongside these incredible young people and share in their journey of self-discovery and growth,” said Sheppard, a licensed clinical social worker. “They truly inspire me and validate my commitment to our work at [NewBridge] Jobs Plus.” Sheppard was hired by NewBridge as a social worker in 1996 and became the program’s director a few years later.
Sheppard and 2022 NewBridge Jobs Plus graduate Favio Jasso were featured in NJAMHAA’s “Diverse Faces: Partners in Care” brochure and video. NJAMHAA President and CEO Deborah Wentz said the campaign succeeded in increasing the state’s investment in mental health and addiction services.
Counselor and Mentor
Jasso, who left traditional high school after failing two 10th-grade classes, described how Sheppard helped him learn to manage depression. Sheppard provided Jasso with weekly supportive counseling sessions while in the program, and he received employment skills training and college and career planning through the program.
“If it weren’t for my counselor Amy, I would never have had the courage to apply for the business administration courses I’m currently taking,” Jasso said. He plans to transfer from the County College of Morris to Rutgers Business School in Newark.
Sheppard called Jasso “an intelligent, motivated young man ready to take on the world. His openness and willingness to share his mental health journey has inspired everyone who has heard his story,” she said. Click here to learn more about NewBridge Jobs Plus.
Chief Robert McNally, Capt. Mark Castellano, Deputy Chief Jan Monrad, Capt. Joseph Costello, Lt. James Bruno, Det. Super. Cassie, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally announced the recent promotions within the investigative team.
They proudly announce the promotion of Jan-Michael Monrad to Deputy Chief of Detectives. Jan-Michael has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership throughout his tenure, and we have every confidence in his ability to excel in this new role.
FAP Calderwood, Prosecutor Carroll, Deputy Chief Monrad, and Chief McNally.
These advancements and additions to our team reflect our ongoing commitment to maintaining a highly skilled and efficient investigative force. Congratulations to Jan-Michael Monrad on his promotion, and warmly welcome the new Detective to the ranks.
A formal ceremony was held on July 10, 2023, in the Commissioner’s Public Meeting Room.
Jan-Michael Monrad was promoted to the rank of Deputy Chief of Detectives.
Deputy Chief Monrad graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Business Administration. He has over 28 years of Law Enforcement experience, having started his career as a Patrolman/Detective with the Boonton Township Police Department.
In 2002, Deputy Chief Monrad was sworn in as a Detective with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. As a Detective, Deputy Chief Monrad served in the Domestic Violence Unit, High Tech Crimes Unit, General Investigations Unit, and Special Enforcement Unit (SEU), where he conducted numerous undercover and surface narcotics investigations. In 2015, he was promoted to Detective Supervisor, and in 2016, to the rank of Sergeant of the Intelligence/ Homeland Security Unit, also supervising the High Tech Crimes Unit. Deputy Chief Monrad was promoted to Lieutenant of the Special Operations Division in 2018 and Captain in 2021. In 2023, when he was transferred to the Tactical Division, he was responsible for the operations of the Major Crimes Unit and the Sex Crimes Child Endangerment Unit.
Deputy Chief Monrad has been involved in numerous narcotics, homicide, sex crimes, burglary, and missing persons investigations and has successfully testified in the State v. Jose Feliciano and State v. Kashif Parvaiz homicide trials. Deputy Chief Monrad is recognized as an expert in electronic surveillance and has conducted over 1,000 lawful intercepts of communications, and has taught classes on the subject on behalf of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, the County Prosecutor’s Association of New Jersey, the County Narcotics Commanders Association of New Jersey, MAGLOCLEN, the New Jersey Narcotics Enforcement Officers Association, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He also has held certifications as a Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) by the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS), a Tactical Emergency Medical Technician (TEMT), and the Commander of the Tactical Narcotics Team (TNT) and Commander of Rapid Deployment Team (RDT).
Promoted to Captain were Mark Castellano and Joseph Costello. Both previously had held the rank of Lieutenant.
Captain Castellano will command the Courts & Administration Division while retaining responsibility for Firearms and Training.
Capt. Castellano
Captain Castellano is a 24-year Law Enforcement veteran. His experience includes assignments in the Narcotics, Fugitive, Gangs, and Community Affairs Units. Capt. Castellano was a member of the Tactical Narcotics Team and is a Master ICAT, ABLE, Resiliency, and Implicit Bias Trainer. Capt. Castellano is a Police Training Commission Certified Firearms Instructor. He graduated from Seton Hall University and is an FBI Trilogy award recipient. Capt. Castellano is a lifelong martial artist who holds black belts in various disciplines and is a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Captain Costello will command the Tactical Division.
Capt. Costello
Captain Costello began his law enforcement career in 2001 with the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office. In 2006, he joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. In 2013, he was promoted to Detective Supervisor, then again in 2014 to Sergeant. In 2019, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. He is a NJ Police Training Commission certified Instructor. Also, he serves on the executive board of the County Narcotics Commanders Association of New Jersey and is a member of the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Law Enforcement Subcommittee. Captain Costello earned a Bachelor’s degree from Salve Regina University and a Master’s from Seton Hall University.
Promoted from Sergeant to Lieutenant was James Bruno. Lieutenant Bruno will supervise all units within the Special Operations Division.
Lt. Bruno
Lieutenant Bruno began his career as a Detective in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 2009. In 2016, Lieutenant Bruno was promoted to Detective/Supervisor in the Special Enforcement Unit and subsequently to Sergeant. Lieutenant Bruno is a member of the Crisis Negotiation Team, Tactical Narcotics Team, Rapid Deployment Team, and DEA Clandestine Laboratory Team and has received multiple commendations and awards from various associations. Lieutenant Bruno has been deemed an expert in the field of narcotics by the New Jersey Superior Court. He instructs officers in the field of narcotics and tactical operations.
Promoted to Sergeant were Jimmy Atoche and Matthew Magnone. Both previously had held the rank of Detective Supervisor.
Sergeant Atoche will supervise the Special Enforcement Unit within the Special Operations Division. Sergeant Atoche began his law enforcement career in 2014 with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. In 2015, Sergeant Atoche joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. In 2019, Sergeant Atoche was assigned to the FBI’s Transnational Organized Crime and Drug Trafficking Enforcement Task Force. In 2021, Sergeant Atoche was promoted to Detective/Supervisor with the supervision of the Special Enforcement Unit. In 2023, Sergeant Atoche played a part in closing one of the largest fentanyl mills in the NY/NJ area, receiving the FBI Transnational Organized Crime Top 10 Case award. Sergeant Atoche sits on the Board of Directors for the New Jersey Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association and has received numerous individual and unit awards. Before his career in law enforcement, Sergeant Atoche served in the United States Army National Guard, deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Sgt. Magnone
Sergeant Magnone will supervise the Major Crimes Unit within the Tactical Division. Sergeant Magnone began his career in 1999 with the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, being promoted to Crime Scene Investigator in the Major Crimes Division in 2006. Over nearly a decade, he led investigations into numerous high-profile cases, including homicides, police-involved shootings, and suspicious deaths. Sergeant Magnone has received recognition for his expertise in latent friction ridge processing and friction ridge comparison and identification and has provided expert testimony in Superior Court on multiple occasions. In 2015, Sergeant Magnone transitioned to the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office as a county detective and joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 2017. Initially serving in the General Investigations Unit, he was transferred to the Professional Standards Unit and then the Major Crimes Unit. In late 2022 and early 2023, Sergeant Magnone solved a significant cold case, displaying his dedication to justice and commitment to solving homicides regardless of time. He was promoted to Detective Supervisor in January 2023. Sergeant Magnone holds certifications as a PTC and State instructor in Firearms Training and Internal Affairs Policy and Procedure.
Promoted to Detective Supervisor were John Cassie and Muhammad Thomas. Both previously had held the rank of Detective.
Det. Supervisor Cassie
Detective Supervisor Cassie will be assigned to the Professional Standards Unit within the Specialized Crimes Division. Detective Supervisor Cassie began his law enforcement career in 2013 with the New Jersey Department of Corrections. In 2015, he was hired by the Morris County Park Police and was assigned to the Patrol Division upon graduation from the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy. Detective Supervisor Cassie joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 2016 as a Detective in the General Investigation Unit. Detective Supervisor Cassie has worked in the Domestic Violence Unit and the Special Operation Division’s Intelligence and Homeland Security Units. He is a Supervisor for the Morris County Auto Theft Task Force. He is also a Tactical Narcotics Team/Officer Rescue Team member and a BERLA Forensic Examiner/Technician. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in psychology.
FAP Calderwood, Prosecutor Carroll, Detective Supervisor Muhammad Thomas, and Chief McNally.
Detective Supervisor Thomas will continue to be assigned to the Major Crimes Unit. Before his career at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Detective Supervisor Thomas served for four years as a Marine, completing four deployments. 2005 Detective Supervisor Thomas joined the East Orange Police Department as a Patrolman. Thomas worked on the East Orange Police Violent Crimes Task Force, investigating more than 200 crimes and aiding in a high unit case closure rate. During this time, he participated in the investigations of a Seton Hall off-campus party homicide (2010) and an abducted child Driscoll Bridge homicide (2010), leading to arrests and convictions. Detective Supervisor Thomas joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in March 2017 and was assigned the General Investigations Unit.
Prosecutor Carroll, FAP Calderwood, Det. Nicholas Jung, and Chief McNally.
Nicholas Jung was also sworn in as Detective. Detective Nicholas Jung is a Morris County native who earned an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice from the County College of Morris before transferring to Rutgers University – Newark, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice & Political Science. Detective Jung joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in February 2022 as a Support Staff member assigned to the General Investigations Unit. In April 2023, Detective Jung was transferred to the Intelligence & Homeland Security Unit and is responsible for assisting the unit Detectives with ongoing investigations.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “Throughout my law enforcement career and particularly as a prosecutor, I have worked to maintain my commitment to promoting from within, especially when the personnel has demonstrated the leadership, experience, and selfless dedication to advance the interests of justice. The people promoted today have undergone a rigorous review process and have demonstrated their commitment to team building both internally and externally with our state, county, and municipal law enforcement professionals. When coupled with our dedicated legal staff, they present a formidable force against criminal conduct. I am confident that we have selected the most qualified and appropriate leadership to advance the current needs and objectives of the MCPO.”
MORRIS COUNTY — The Cheshire Home rehabilitation center, dedicated to assisting individuals with spinal cord injuries, is organizing its annual Run, Walk, Stroll, or Roll 5K to raise awareness about spinal cord injuries.
To participate in the event, you can now register by clicking here. The 5K will occur at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 16, at 200 Campus Drive in Florham Park.
By paying the entry fees, you will contribute to Cheshire Home’s mission of empowering young adults with spinal cord injuries, helping them regain their independence to the fullest extent possible. Attending the event will support Cheshire Home and provide an opportunity to learn more about its residents. Cheshire Home is located on Ridgedale Avenue in Florham Park.
They are seeking sponsors for the event to further support Cheshire Home in celebrating Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month. If you want to become a sponsor and contribute to this cause, don’t hesitate to contact Betsey at [email protected].
To learn more about Cheshire Home and its initiatives, visit their website by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Barbara Kuppersmith, chair of Voter Services for the Morristown Area League, will help attendees navigate the voting process, touching on the following topics: Who can vote, how and when to vote, early voting, vote by mail, in person, why residents should vote, residency requirements, the process of removal from voting rolls, checking voter status, and how to learn about the candidates.
Title: Know Your Voting Rights – Voting in New Jersey
Date and Time: Wednesday, July 26, at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Brookside Community Club, 1 East Main Street, Mendham Township
Barbara Kuppersmith,
Liza Weisberg, a staff attorney at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Jersey, will join to answer questions about voting and the Voters Rights Act. The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan organization, neither supporting nor opposing candidates or political parties at any level of government, but always working on vital issues of concern to the public. For more information, click here.
The presentation will be available live and after the event on the LWV Morristown Area YouTube channel by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Mosquito Commission has announced that it will be using an All-Terrain vehicle to treat a section of woods in Hanover Township, Florham Park Borough, East Hanover Township, and Wharton Borough on Saturday morning.
The mosquito spraying will go on from 4:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on July 15, weather permitting.
The following areas are scheduled to be treated:
Hanover: Valley Forge (Heritage Woods).
Florham Park: Columbia Turnpike (Morristown Airport).
East Hanover: Brentwood Drive.
Wharton: Julia Dr, and Bear Claw Rd (Pondview Estates).
The commission will be using Anvil 2+2, active ingredient Sumithrin, EPA#1021-1687-8329 or Zenivex E4, active ingredient Etofenprox, EPA#2724.
For more information, click here or call (973) 285-6450.
MORRIS COUNTY – The I-287 southbound Exit 35 ramp to Route 124 is scheduled to close this weekend from 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 14, until 5:00 a.m. Monday, July 17, in Morristown.
If construction is completed earlier than expected, the ramp will reopen sooner. The closure is necessary to repair a sinkhole on the ramp.
I-287 southbound Exit 35 to Route 124 detour:
• Motorists on I-287 southbound wishing to take the Exit 35 ramp to Route 124/Madison Avenue will be directed to take Exit 36 to CR 510/Morris Avenue, which is before Exit 35
• Stay left to continue on CR 510/Morris Avenue/Lafayette Avenue
• Continue on Lafayette Avenue
• Turn right onto Morris Street/CR 510
• At the fork in the road, keep left to continue on Morris Street/CR 510
• Turn right onto East Park Place
• Keep left to turn left onto North Park Place
• Keep left to turn left onto West Park Place, which becomes Route 124/South Street
The work is part of a $15.8 million state-funded maintenance project to repair stormwater facilities at various locations in eight counties throughout North Jersey.
The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website (http://www.511nj.org/) for real time travel information
