Lehigh University is a private research university in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in the Lehigh Valley region of eastern Pennsylvania. The university was established in 1865 by businessman Asa Packer and was originally affiliated with the Episcopal Church.
MORRIS COUNTY — Students at Lehigh University attained Dean’s List in Spring 2024. This status is granted to students who earned a scholastic average of 3.6 or better while carrying at least 12 hours of regularly graded courses. Local area students include:
Daniel Batrachenko of Florham Park; William Geiger of Morris Plains Ava Lorette of Florham Park Jr Perez of Boonton Charlie Petro of Florham Park Peyton Sward of Florham Park Kleon Voliotis of Madison Jack Wentworth of Mount Tabor Jack Wilt of Madison Meghan Young of Morris Plains Andrea Zeien of Florham Park
For over 150 years, Lehigh University (lehigh.edu) has combined outstanding academic and learning opportunities with leadership in fostering innovative research. The institution is among the most selective, highly-ranked private research universities. Lehigh’s five colleges—the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Health, and the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science—provide opportunities for 7,000+ students to discover and grow in an academically rigorous environment along with a supportive, engaged campus community.
Mayor Dodd, Christian Fuentes, and Captain William Newton at Swearing-In Ceremony
DOVER — On Tuesday, May 14, Dover Mayor James Dodd administered Christian Fuentes’s oath of office.
The Dover Police Department hired Christian as a Class II Special Law Enforcement Officer in May 2023. In July 2023, Christian enrolled in the 101st Basic Police Class at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy. He graduated from the academy in November and began his duties as SLEO II in the Town of Dover shortly after.
New Dover Police Officer Christian Fuentes Takes Oath with Parents by His Side
While completing his Field Training Program, Christian was offered a full-time position with the Dover Police Department, which he officially accepted on January 13, 2024. He was released from the FTO program on March 19.
Christian graduated from Morris Knolls High School in 2015. There, he played varsity baseball for three years, serving as the school’s starting shortstop and team captain during his senior year. He then continued his studies at Monmouth University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science with a concentration in Legal Studies and a minor in Homeland Security.
In his free time, Christian stays active by working out and playing team-based sports. He enjoys spending Sundays playing baseball and has aspirations to coach Little League or high school baseball in the future. Christian also engages in various sports, including snowboarding, hockey, basketball, football, and softball. Additionally, he has an interest in military history and international relations.
Christian is excited to bring his passion for team-oriented activities and learning to his role at the Dover Police Department, where he looks forward to serving the citizens of Dover.
DOVER — On May 6, Kristen Bell underwent a routine hernia operation that initially went well. However, the next day, she began feeling unwell. By May 8, her health had rapidly declined, and she was taken by ambulance to St. Clare’s Emergency Department in Denville. There, she was admitted to the ICU and diagnosed with renal failure. Kristen was placed on a ventilator, and that evening, her family was told she might not survive the night.
Fortunately, Kristen fought through the night and continues to defy the odds. As of today, Kristen is making small incremental improvements. Though still on a ventilator, she and her family face a long road to recovery. Her husband, Allen, and their two daughters, Aubree, 8, and Makayla, 12, have been by her daily during this uncertain time. The support from friends and family has been overwhelming, providing meals, transportation, and care.
Despite the ongoing help from Kristen’s immediate support network, she will need long-term rehabilitation. We ask for your support in any financial capacity you can offer to assist with medical expenses, travel costs, and the indirect losses the family has endured. We deeply appreciate your consideration in raising funds to ease the Bell family’s burden during these trying times.
Mayor Dodd Administers Oath to Fireman Jason Diehl, Supported by Wife Jen
DOVER — Mayor James Dodd administered the Oath of Office to Fireman Jason Diehl on May 14. Jason Diehl, appointed in August 2023, lives in Randolph with his wife, Jen, and their two sons, Colin and Charlie.
He previously worked as an Environmental Health Lead Technician and Account Manager at Specialty Disposal Service in Mountain Lakes.
Diehl served in the U.S. Army for six years as an Infantryman, Team Leader, and Platoon Sergeant, with three deployments to Afghanistan and Kuwait. During his second deployment, he received the Bronze Star and other commendations.
He serves as a Senior Instructor in the New Jersey National Guard at Headquarters in Sea Girt.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally are pleased to announce the hiring of Jocelyn Allen and Jazmin Munoz-Felder as Detectives for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. A swearing-in ceremony was held on May 6.
Detective Jocelyn Allen
Detective Allen will be joining the Domestic Violence Unit within the Family Division. She brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as a Police Detective with the Newark Police Department, where she was assigned to the department’s legal affairs unit. In this role, she assisted partner agencies with evidence collection for legal proceedings. Detective Allen also has experience as a first responder while on patrol, where she earned recognition for her courageous actions, including saving the life of a man attempting suicide. Her diverse background includes roles as a medical receptionist at Clara Maass Hospital and an Arbitration/Billing Clerk for a private company. Detective Allen is a graduate of the Essex County Police Academy and has completed several certifications.
Detective Jazmin Munoz-Felder
Detective Munoz-Felder will be assigned to the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit within the Tactical Division. She previously served in the same unit with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office from 2013 to 2020, where she conducted interviews related to child endangerment and sexual assault, participated in human trafficking operations, and assisted multiple law enforcement agencies. Most recently, she served in the Special Victims Unit of the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, where she was responsible for preparing search warrants, executing operations plans, and investigating allegations of child endangerment and sexual assault. Detective Munoz-Felder also served as a liaison for human trafficking and Internet Crimes Against Children. Her earlier roles include serving as a Police Officer for the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) Police and the Middlesex County College Police Departments. She holds an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Union County College/Ocean County College and has completed various professional training courses.
Statement from Prosecutor Carroll
“I welcome, and welcome back, our two incoming Detectives. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment and Domestic Violence Units perform critical work serving the most vulnerable victims in our community, and I am glad to strengthen our dedicated team of investigators,” said Prosecutor Carroll.
BOONTON — At approximately 9:46 a.m. on Monday, May 20, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office received a tip through the RSVP-3 system alleging the presence of an explosive device at Boonton High School. In response, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, and Boonton Police Department were dispatched to the scene.
As a precaution, the school was placed under a shelter-in-place order. All bags were methodically searched, and once the search concluded without finding any suspicious devices, the shelter-in-place order was lifted.
Later, at around 11:18 a.m., the Boonton Police received a report of an alleged active shooter at John Hill School. Officers from Boonton Police, Mountain Lakes Police, and Montville Police responded and cleared the building. The report was found to be not credible, and the building was declared safe by 11:40 a.m. It was determined that the report at John Hill School resulted from a misunderstanding related to the initial shelter-in-place situation.
The investigation at both locations lasted about two hours and involved the Morris County Sheriff’s K9 Section.
The Morris County Aktion Club, which is sponsored by DAWNcil. Aktion Club is the only service club for adults with disabilities, with more than 10,000 members worldwide. Club members become competent, capable, caring leaders through the vehicle of service.
MORRIS COUNTY — Dawn’s Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair occurred on Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19, at Central Park of Morris County, at One Governor Christie Drive, Parsippany.
Dawn’s Family Fun Day Brings Joy to Central Park
The event featured various activities, including a Community Resource Fair, food trucks, live music, games, prizes, and more. Attendees enjoyed a reptile show and turtle races presented by Snakes ‘n’ Scales.
Highlights of the event included:
Food trucks by Colonial Grill
Live music throughout the day by Marin Contini
Over 20 resource vendors
Lawn games
Photo opportunities with Minnie Mouse
Activities and games for all ages
Giveaways and prizes
Planting activities, sensory activities, STEM activities, and a scavenger hunt
A wheelchair softball game on Challenger Field, where attendees could cheer on the players or use provided wheelchairs to join in and experience the game themselves
This event was perfect for families looking to have a great time while learning about essential services available for individuals with disabilities. With games, entertainment, informational booths, wheelchair softball games, and live music, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The community came together to make lasting memories at this special event.
•DAWN Center for Independent Living: Dawn is a nonprofit organization serving people with disabilities in the New Jersey counties of Morris, Sussex, and Warren. DAWN’s dedicated and professional staff work with consumers from three locations following a self-directed philosophy. This means that consumers are always empowered to make their own decisions and set their own goals. They provide various services for people with disabilities in advocacy, information and referral, peer support, and independent living skills training. We offer employment services, life skills training classes, and recreational activities for adults, youth, and young adults. DAWN also provides support coordination and care management under many state programs. DAWN’s comprehensive services are a critical part of the support network that enables people with disabilities residing in Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties to live independently in their communities. Click here for more information.
•Hope House: Hope House is located at 101-103 Bassett Highway, Dover. It is a non-profit social services agency that is part of Catholic Charities. Click here for more information.
Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs
•Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs: At MCOHA, the organization understands that its strength is not only in the words it stands by but also in the actions of its initiatives. That’s why MCOHA works diligently to enhance the lives of over 12,000 of Morris County’s Hispanic and low-income residents annually, offering direct social and legal services and client advocacy. Click here for more information.
•National Institute for People with Disabilities of New Jersey: Founded in 1998, NIPD/NJ is a rapidly growing residential and family support service provider in New Jersey. With an emphasis on opportunities for people we support to live independently, NIPD/NJ offers supervised and supportive residential programs. Currently, the agency operates ten supervised group homes, ten supervised apartment programs, and one supportive apartment. The agency also offers Support Coordination services in Sussex, Hudson, Essex, Somerset, and Warren counties. Click here for more information.
•Reliant Care Transport: Reliant Care Transport was established in response to the shortcomings of conventional transportation options for individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities. We’ve leveraged the convenience and safety of Uber’s ridesharing services to offer our participants a superior, cost-effective solution. Click here for more information.
•Abilities of Northwest Jersey: Offers individualized employment and support services for persons with disabilities. Enhancing personal development by offering training activities in daily living, personal health and safety, socialization, decision-making, and communication. Providing individuals with the skills to acquire and maintain successful, meaningful employment and to benefit from community-integrated activities. Click here for more information.
•ArcMorris: ArcMorris is dedicated to caring, supporting, and advancing people with intellectual and related developmental disabilities and their families. Click here for more information.
•A & J Majestic Care: A & J is a home care provider inspired to care majestically for recovering disabled adults and seniors. They believe each client deserves a holistic approach that restores and maintains their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Majestic Care Nurses are committed to quality care. Registered Nurses perform initial assessments, delegate responsibilities, and make periodic visits to monitor progress and client satisfaction. Click here for more information.
•Celebrate the Children: Celebrate the Children (CTC), is a New Jersey State – Approved, not-for-profit private school serving neuro-diverse individuals. Their developmental program serves a range of students ages 3-21 with Autism and other Developmental Challenges. Their school program commenced in January 2004. Click here for more information.
•Child & Family Resources: Child & Family Resources (CFR) focuses on children. They create and implement programs and services that support the development of children and their families by engaging and partnering with the community in their efforts to enhance children’s lives. Their vision is a communal state that shares the burden of early care and education with families. Click here for more information.
•Circle of Strength: Their mission is to create opportunities for growth and meaningful life choices with services and support so the individuals we service have meaningful opportunities to explore their interests, pursue their dreams, and achieve their goals.Click here for more information.
•Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming: They partner with the DAWN Center for Independent Living to provide Care Management and other disability services to adults with disabilities. You can reach them at 973-625-1940. Click here for more information.
•Caring Hands Group Home: It is an approved provider for the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Developmental Disabilities, offering many services to support individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities within the community and in homes.Caring Hands LLC administrative staff has over 20 years of combined DDD experience servicing individuals with intellectual disabilities and behavioral and medical complexities. Click here for more information.
MORRIS COUNTY — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety (HTS) announced the start of the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign, which aims to raise awareness among drivers and passengers about the lifesaving importance of wearing seat belts.
The campaign, which will run through June 2, will leverage grant funding from HTS to provide resources to law enforcement agencies across the state so they can step up enforcement of New Jersey’s seat belt requirements to keep drivers and passengers safe on our roadways.
This year, 119 New Jersey law enforcement agencies have received $766,010 from HTS to help pay for increased road patrols, seat belt checkpoints, and other enforcement initiatives during the “Click It or Ticket” campaign.
The campaign is part of HTS’s ongoing efforts to increase safety and reduce fatalities on New Jersey’s roadways. According to the most recent data from 2022, in New Jersey, there were 140 unbelted fatalities, and 39 percent of all motor vehicle occupant fatalities were unrestrained, compared to 44 percent nationally. Over the past five years, nearly 16 percent of all unrestrained occupants killed in motor vehicle crashes in New Jersey were between the ages of 20 and 24, compared to 13.5 percent nationally.
“Seat belts save lives – we want that message to be loud and clear. And the campaign we are announcing today will provide law enforcement agencies with resources to reinforce that basic but critical point,” Platkin said. “As we prepare for the busy summer driving season, we are laser-focused on ensuring safety on roadways across New Jersey. This starts with drivers and passengers buckling up when they enter a vehicle.”
“In New Jersey, a state known for its busy highways and beautiful shorelines, spending time on the road is inevitable. However, it’s important to prioritize safety no matter your destination,” said Michael J. Rizol Jr., Director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. “Wearing your seatbelt is not only required by law, but it can also save your life. Remember to buckle up, day or night, every seat, every time.”
Law enforcement agencies throughout New Jersey take a “no-excuses” approach to seat belt compliance. The maximum penalty of a $46 fine for a seat belt violation serves as a reminder to buckle up every time.
Last year, law enforcement agencies participating in the “Click It or Ticket” campaign issued 6,989 seatbelt citations statewide, wrote 2,320 speeding summonses, and made 232 impaired driving arrests.
The “Click It or Ticket” campaign also coincides with the “101 Days of Summer,” considered the busiest and most dangerous travel period of the year. Beautiful weather and New Jersey’s countless entertainment and recreational destinations create heavy travel demands between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Over the next three months, HTS will continue to work closely with local, county, state, and national law enforcement agencies to make summer travel safer and strive to reduce crashes and fatalities throughout New Jersey.
HANOVER — On Monday, May 27th, Hanover Township will host its annual Memorial Day Parade, marching down Whippany Road in a vibrant hour-long event. This year, the parade, chaired by Committeeman and Deputy Mayor Michael Mihalko and the Hanover Veterans Alliance, continues the tradition of honoring our fallen military and service heroes.
United States Army Sergeant and Team Chief Michael McCorry, who served in the 2nd USA Missile Detachment in Germany, will be this year’s Grand Marshal. The keynote speaker will be Command Chief Master Sergeant (RET) Joseph Ortu from the 108th Air Refueling Wing. Ortu began his military career in 1967 and retired in 2007, with deployments in Thailand, Norway, Ecuador, Turkey, Spain, and France.
The parade starts at 9:30 a.m. at Whippany Park High School. It will kick off with the Hanover Township Committee members and feature veterans from World War II, the Slattery Marine Corps League, the US Marine Corps Color Guard, the Whippany Park Marching Band, pipe bands, military vehicles, and various service organizations. Participants will also include the Whippany and Cedar Knolls Fire Departments, area churches, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and numerous teams from Little League and soccer, marching with members of the NY Red Bulls.
The parade will conclude at the American Legion Hall on Legion Place, where ceremonies honoring those who gave their all will be held. Command Chief Master Sergeant Ortu will deliver a speech. Following the ceremony, there will be a gathering at the rear of the Legion with hot dogs and refreshments for all attendees.
Parking for the Legion ceremony will be available in the JCC parking lot at 905 Route 10. Access can be made via Legion Place anytime before the parade or the Route 10 entrance to the JCC. Signs and police officers will provide directions to dedicated parade parking, and a shuttle to the Legion will be available for those who prefer not to walk.
Morris County Crimestoppers offering reward for info leading to arrest of woman who damaged glass door in Morristown.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of the suspect who damaged a glass door in Morristown.
According to authorities, on Saturday, April 20, at approximately 1:16 a.m., an unidentified white female was seen in the vicinity of 23 South Street in Morristown.
The suspect kicked the lower section of the left glass door at 23 South Street, causing significant damage. She briefly left, returned around 1:18 a.m., and began kicking the right door, continuing for several minutes. The repeated kicks, as seen in surveillance footage, resulted in damage and cracks to the lower portion of the right glass door, officials reported.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers at copcall.org, 973-COP-CALL, or through any mobile device’s free “P3 Tips” app.
Tips can be submitted anonymously, and informants could receive a reward of up to $1,000.
