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BJ’s Wholesale Club to Open 25th New Jersey Location in Whippany

By
Frank Cahill
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BJ's Wholesale Club’s in Hanover will be the 25th location in New Jersey

HANOVER —  BJ’s Wholesale Club announced that its club in Whippany will open on Friday, March 21.

The club, located at 831 State Route 10, will feature an on-site BJ’s Gas location, with low fuel prices every day and potential extra savings through BJ’s Fuel Saver Program.

BJ’s offers unmatched value on everyday essentials in a convenient one-stop shop. Members save on fresh foods, produce, full-service deli items, bakery goods, household essentials, home décor, pet supplies, toys, consumer electronics, and more. BJ’s members love the true treasure-hunt shopping experience, finding new and exciting items with every visit.

“We’re excited to help the families of Whippany save up to 25% off grocery store prices every day,” said Mauro Amato, Club Manager, Whippany BJ’s Wholesale Club. “Our purpose is to care for the families who depend on us, and we’re thrilled to be part of the community.”

BJ’s has a longstanding commitment to nourishing its communities. For over 15 years, it has worked with Feeding America and its network of food banks, providing more than 125 million meals for those in need. In Whippany, BJ’s is partnering with The Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) by donating produce, meat, dairy products, and more every week to Food for Hope and Interfaith Food Pantry.

Additionally, BJ’s Charitable Foundation donated $75,000 to CFBNJ to support its Family Pack program, which provides over 25,000 meals to students and their families on weekends to help ease food insecurity.

“BJ’s Wholesale Club has been a valuable supporter in building healthier communities in New Jersey,” said Elizabeth McCarthy, President and CEO of Community FoodBank of New Jersey. “We’re grateful for their ongoing partnership, and we’re thrilled to continue our work together as they open a new location in Whippany.”

BJ’s members can choose from several time-saving options, whether shopping online or in-club. Curbside pick-up, in-club pick-up, same-day delivery, and standard delivery are available on BJs.com, while members shopping in-club can use ExpressPay through BJ’s mobile app to scan products as they shop and skip the checkout line.





Dover Resident James Johnson Inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

By
Frank Cahill
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DOVER—James Johnson has been elected to membership in the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at the College of New Jersey. Phi Kappa Phi is the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.

Johnson joins approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff, and alumni inducted into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of their degree candidates may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff, and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Founded in 1897, Phi Kappa Phi has chapters on more than 300 campuses in the United States, its territories, and the Philippines. Its mission is to “cultivate a community that celebrates and advances the love of learning.”

For more information, visit www.PhiKappaPhi.org.





AG Platkin Acts Against Gun Stores for Repeated Unlawful Sales to Unverified Buyers

By
Frank Cahill
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A beautifully crafted custom-built display case showcases an impressive selection of firearms and accessories, enhancing the shopping experience for customers.

EAST HANOVER — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin confirmed the filing of civil lawsuits against two licensed New Jersey firearms retailers for repeatedly selling gun-related products to undercover investigators without the buyer demonstrating that they could lawfully possess a firearm. The stores are Butch’s Gun World in Vineland and Point Blank Guns and Ammo in East Hanover. Each store’s sales included selling a 1,000-round case of AR-15 rifle ammunition for cash. Such unsafe and irresponsible sales are unlawful, and these suits aim to deter such conduct in the future. (Click here to download the complaint)

These actions enforce compliance with this important requirement, which protects the public against threats and gun violence by persons who acquire gun-related products even though they cannot lawfully possess them. Such persons include, though are not limited to, persons with prior felony convictions, persons prohibited from having firearms under domestic violence restraining orders, those on terrorist watch lists, persons who were previously confined for mental health disorders, and more.

“Keeping guns out of the wrong hands is a critical public safety priority. That is why the Legislature required New Jersey’s gun industry to adopt meaningful measures to avoid selling ammunition and other gun-related products to people who cannot legally possess a gun,” said Attorney General Platkin. “The compliance requirements this law imposes are no different from the demands we place on other industries that create a hazard to human health, and we will enforce our law.”

Case of .223 caliber rifle ammunition, purchased from Point Blank Guns and Ammo purchased on May 30, 2024

“Almost a year ago, we notified the gun industry of our first actions under the 2022 legislation. That law requires anyone selling gun-related parts, including ammunition, to take steps to ensure that they are selling only to those legally permitted to possess firearms,” said Ravi Ramanathan, Director of the Statewide Affirmative Firearms Enforcement Office (SAFE). “We were disappointed to find not one, but two, gun shops selling cases of AR-15 ammunition for cash without first verifying that the buyers can lawfully possess firearms.”

Earlier this year, investigators from SAFE visited these stores and made purchases with cash.

  • In March 2024, Butch’s Gun World sold a 20-round box of .223 caliber ammunition—a high-velocity, military-standard rifle ammunition often used in AR-15-style rifles—and a handgun ammunition magazine to a first-time customer.
  • In June 2024, a different Butch’s salesperson sold a 1,000-round case of .223 caliber ammunition to a different first-time customer.
  • In March 2024, a Point Blank Guns and Ammo salesperson sold a handgun ammunition magazine to a first-time buyer.
  • In May 2024, a Point Blank Guns and Ammo salesperson sold a 1,000-round case of .223 caliber ammunition to a different first-time customer.
The magazine sold by Point Blank Guns and Ammo on March 20, 2024

The stores did not ask for the purchaser’s identification, permit, or credential in each instance. Instead, the stores made sales—including vast quantities of lethal ammunition for cash—without any apparent steps to exclude sales to prohibited firearms possessors.

These matters are being handled by Deputy Attorneys General Jonathan Mangel, Giancarlo Piccinini, Loren Miller, and Honors Law Clerk Andrea Cavazos under the supervision of Assistant Attorney General David Leit of the Special Litigation Section within the Division of Law’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group.





NewBridge Leader Honored for Transformative Impact in Mental Health 

By
Frank Cahill
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Victoria ‘Viki’ Ferlauto will be honored with the 2025 Courage and Compassion Award for her dedication to mental health care.

MORRIS COUNTY — For more than a quarter century, Victoria ‘Viki’ Ferlauto has been a driving force behind groundbreaking mental health initiatives. This spring, New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies (NJAMHAA) will honor her dedication and leadership with its 2025 Courage and Compassion Award. 

“Viki leads with heart, tackles challenges with determination, and devotes herself fully to the well-being of others,” said NewBridge Services CEO Michelle Borden. “She has cultivated an environment of care, innovation, and inclusivity that benefits both clients and staff.” 

Ferlauto joined NewBridge Services in 1998 and oversaw its adult psychiatric day treatment program before Borden promoted her to executive director of counseling services in 2022. “She is one of the most dedicated, compassionate, and effective professionals in our field,” Borden said.

NJAMHAA will honor Ferlauto on April 8 at its spring conference, “Looking Beyond the Horizon in Behavioral Health,” at the APA Hotel Woodbridge in Iselin. “Viki’s leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on mental health care in New Jersey,” said NJAMHAA President and CEO Debra L. Wentz. 

“I am deeply grateful for this wonderful recognition by such esteemed colleagues and my supervisor. Doing good in our world is my primary goal and the only way forward is together,” Ferlauto said. 

As executive director of counseling services, Ferlauto oversees three outpatient counseling centers and two adult psychiatric day treatment programs across Morris, Passaic, and Sussex counties. Her influence extends beyond NewBridge Services. After NewBridge joined forces with Christian Health last year, Ferlauto began supervising clinical staff there as well. 

One of Ferlauto’s most impactful efforts has been leading NewBridge’s Zero Suicide initiative. Under her leadership, every staff member — not just clinicians —was trained to recognize and respond to warning signs, creating a stronger safety net for clients. Thanks to this effort, NewBridge saw no client suicides in 2024. 

Throughout her career, Ferlauto has demonstrated innovative problem-solving, especially in times of crisis. When the COVID-19 pandemic halted in-person treatment in March 2020, she quickly adapted the adult psychiatric day treatment program. Clients who attended in person on a Friday were able to access group therapy from home the following Monday through conference calls. (This pre-dated video conferencing.) Months later, Ferlauto oversaw the safe return to in-person treatment, ensuring clients received continuous support during an especially isolating time. 

Ferlauto fosters a culture of mentorship and collaboration, strengthening both staff and client care, Borden said. “She understands that by supporting the well-being of mental health professionals, they, in turn, can provide better care for clients,” Borden said, adding that Ferlauto’s leadership helped build a more unified organization. 

“I’m grateful to work alongside such dedicated colleagues and to help our clients find hope and healing,” Ferlauto said. 





TD Bank to Close More Branches

By
Frank Cahill
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TD Bank is a full-service financial institution offering a range of personal and business banking services, including checking and savings accounts, loans, mortgages, credit cards, and investment options. Known for its convenient hours and customer-friendly approach, TD Bank provides in-person banking with extended hours, including weekends, along with 24/7 online and mobile banking for easy account management. Most locations feature drive-thru banking, ATMs, and financial advisors to assist with various banking needs.

MORRIS COUNTY — As part of its ongoing efforts to streamline operations and adapt to changing customer banking habits, TD Bank has announced the closure of more than three dozen retail branches across the country, including six locations in New Jersey. The Cherry Hill-based financial institution will officially shut down the following branches on June 5:

  • Cedar Grove – 85 Pompton Avenue
  • Flemington – 1 Royal Road
  • Holmdel – 670 Laurel Avenue
  • Marlton – 191 East Route 70
  • Ringwood – 145 Skyline Drive
  • Spring Lake Heights – 555 Warren Avenue

Following these closures, TD Bank will have 216 branches remaining in New Jersey. The bank will also be shutting down branches in several other states, including Connecticut, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

Morris County TD Bank Locations

For residents of Morris County, the following TD Bank branches remain open:

  • Denville – 298 East Main Street
  • East Hanover – 300 Route 10 West
  • Florham Park – 177 Columbia Turnpike
  • Madison – 18 Main Street
  • Morris Plains – 324 Speedwell Avenue
  • Morristown – 217 South Street
  • Parsippany – 9 Waterview Boulevard
  • Randolph – 535 Route 10
  • Dover – 326 Mount Hope Avenue
  • Roxbury – 217 Route 10 East
  • Succasunna – 217 Route 10 East
  • Chatham – 425 Main Street

TD Bank’s Future Plans

One of the 10 largest banks in North America, TD Bank operates more than 1,100 retail stores in 15 states and the nation’s capital, serving over 10 million customers. In recent years, the bank has significantly reduced its footprint in the U.S., citing efforts to reinvest in remaining branches, expand ATM networks, and enhance digital and mobile banking services.

The decision to shrink its brick-and-mortar presence comes just months after federal authorities announced a $3 billion settlement with TD Bank over an investigation into alleged money laundering violations. According to the Department of Justice, TD Bank failed to monitor over $18 trillion in payments between 2016 and 2022, enabling over $600 million laundering. As part of its settlement, the bank agreed to pay hefty fines and cap its total worth at $434 million.

For more information on TD Bank’s services and branch locations, visit www.td.com.





Morris County Library Hosts “Lunch & Learn” with Prosecutor Robert Carroll and Sheriff James Gannon

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon

HANOVER – The Morris County Library invites residents to an engaging “Lunch & Learn” session featuring Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Sheriff James M. Gannon on Friday, April 4th, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event will focus on “The History of Law Enforcement in Morris County,” offering attendees a chance to learn about the evolution of policing and justice in the community.

The discussion will cover key historical moments, landmark cases, and the role of law enforcement in maintaining public safety over the years. Prosecutor Carroll and Sheriff Gannon bring decades of experience, providing firsthand insights into Morris County’s legal and law enforcement landscape.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll

The event at the Morris County Library requires advance registration, which can be completed by clicking here. Following the presentation, attendees will enjoy a light lunch as they network and discuss the topic further.

This free educational event allows community members to connect with local law enforcement leaders, ask questions, and better understand how the justice system has evolved to serve and protect residents.

The Morris County Library, located at 30 East Hanover Avenue, Whippany, serves the residents of Morris County by offering a vast collection of books, digital resources, and community programs. Their operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; the library is closed on Sundays. For more information or to plan your visit, contact the library at (973) 285-6930 or their official website.





Al Paganelli Honored with Montville Township Chamber of Commerce President’s Award

By
Frank Cahill
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The Montville Township Chamber of Commerce has recognized Al Paganelli, a dedicated member of the Kiwanis Club of Montville, with the President’s Award for his outstanding commitment to the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry.

MONTVILLE — The Montville Township Chamber of Commerce has recognized Al Paganelli with the President’s Award for his exceptional dedication and service to the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry.

Paganelli is vital in ensuring that the pantry remains well-stocked and organized. His bi-weekly shopping trips help maintain inventory, ensuring that families in need have access to essential food supplies. Through his hands-on approach and meticulous attention to inventory management, he has significantly impacted the hundreds of community members who rely on the pantry each month.

Upon receiving the award, Paganelli expressed his gratitude and shared the recognition with the many volunteers contributing to the pantry’s success. He also acknowledged his mentor, Deane Driscoll, emphasizing the collective effort required to sustain the food assistance program.

The Montville Kiwanis Club congratulates Paganelli on this well-deserved honor and extends its appreciation to all 2025 Montville Township Chamber of Commerce award recipients for their contributions to the community.

To support the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry through volunteering or donations click here.

The Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry, a key initiative of the Kiwanis Club of Montville, has been honored as the Group I Runner-Up in the Kiwanis International Signature Project Contest. The recognition was announced at the Kiwanis NJ District Mid-Year Conference at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft. The club will be officially honored at the New Jersey District Convention at the Tropicana Hotel, Atlantic City, September 11 – 14, 2025.

Founded in 2010, the Montville Kiwanis Food Pantry has become a lifeline for families facing food insecurity. In 2024, the pantry served 3,851 individuals, including seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities. Its impact is made possible by a dedicated network of 289 volunteers and strong community partnerships.

Innovative Programs Driving Success

The pantry’s success is driven by initiatives such as the:
✅ Adopt-A-Shelf Program – Ensures pantry shelves remain stocked with essential food items.
✅ Community Garden – Developed in collaboration with the Montville High School Key Club, this initiative provides fresh produce to needy people.

Global Recognition for Community Service

The Kiwanis International Signature Project Contest celebrates the most impactful service initiatives worldwide. This year, the New Jersey District featured 17 entries from 16 clubs, competing among 516 total submissions globally.

The Kiwanis Club of Montville is honored to receive this recognition and remains committed to supporting the community through meaningful service projects like the food pantry.





Morris Plains Municipal Alliance to Host Family Fitness Classes on April 5

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MORRIS PLAINS – The Morris Plains Municipal Alliance Committee invites residents to participate in a variety of family fitness classes on Saturday, April 5, at the Morris Plains Community Center, located at 51 Jim Fear Drive.

The event offers six fitness programs for all ages, including Tae Kwon Do, yoga, Pure Barre, Jazzercise, country line dancing, and archery. Each class has limited spots available, so early registration is encouraged.

Class Schedule:

  • Tae Kwon Do (8:30 – 9:30 a.m.) – Led by Master Akil Acevedo of Cho’s Legacy martial arts school. Parents must be present, either participating or observing. (30 spots available)
  • Yoga (8:30 – 9:30 a.m.) – Led by Gina Musolino. Participants should bring their own mats or yoga towels. Parents must be present. (20 spots available)
  • Pure Barre (9:45 – 10:45 a.m.) – A high-intensity, low-impact workout. Participants should bring their own mats or yoga towels. (30 spots available)
  • Country Line Dancing (11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) – Open to all skill levels. Parents must be present. (30 spots available)
  • Jazzercise (12:15 – 1:15 p.m.) – A fun and energetic workout. (30 spots available)
  • Archery (2:00 – 3:00 p.m.) – Limited to 18 participants.

How to Register:

Individuals and families can sign up at https://tinyurl.com/4sckaj9b. Please note that no supervision will be provided for children outside of class times.

For emergency cancellations, participants should email mpmacinfo@gmail.com.

Don’t miss this opportunity to get active and enjoy a fitness day with the community!





Police Pursuit in Florham Park Ends in Crash; Driver Faces Multiple Charges

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

FLORHAM PARK — A police pursuit of a stolen vehicle ended in a serious crash at the intersection of Vreeland and Hanover Roads on Thursday, March 14, at approximately 1:15 p.m. The suspect vehicle, which Florham Park Police were pursuing, crashed into a tree after operating erratically on the shoulder and grass.

The driver, identified as Brian Joseph Blozen, 50, of Toms River, was extracted from the vehicle and transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. A passenger in the vehicle sustained minor injuries and was also taken to an area hospital but has since been released from custody without charges.

According to authorities, the Florham Park Police initiated the pursuit after identifying the vehicle as stolen. Following the crash, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit was notified, and Blozen was subsequently charged with multiple offenses, including:

  • 2nd-degree eluding (N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2B)
  • 3rd-degree receiving stolen property (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-10.2)
  • 4th-degree assault by auto (N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1C(2))
  • Possession of drug paraphernalia (N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2)
  • Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10B)

No officers were injured in the incident.

In accordance with New Jersey Attorney General Directive 2019-4, the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) has been notified, and a separate team of investigators will independently review the conduct of the Florham Park officers involved in the pursuit.

The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit is handling Blozen’s prosecution as the investigation remains ongoing.

Editors Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.





Dunn Champions Brighter Smiles, Pushes to Nix Tax on Oral Health Products

By
Frank Cahill
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Assemblywoman Aura Dunn

MORRIS COUNTY — “Good oral health isn’t just about pearly whites. It’s about overall well-being,” said Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (R-Morris). “No one should have to dig deeper into their pockets just to brush their teeth.”

While other personal care essentials, like feminine hygiene products and most food items, are already tax-free in New Jersey, oral healthcare products remain unfairly taxed despite their critical role in preventing serious medical conditions.

The cost of neglecting dental care is far greater than the revenue New Jersey collects from taxing these products. Poor oral health has been linked to major medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, pneumonia and even dementia.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children, contributing to millions of lost school hours and over $124 billion in annual dental-related health care costs.

“New Jersey should promote public health, not profit from it,” Dunn added. “Basic health care should be accessible to everyone, not a source of state revenue. A healthier state starts with a healthier smile.”

If passed, Dunn’s (A5449) bill will give residents one more reason to flash their pearly whites—tax-free.







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