MORRiS COUNTY — The Parsippany Library will host an informational Share Time Presentation by the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Parsippany Main Library, 449 Halsey Road. The program is designed for 9th and 10th-grade high school students and their families who are interested in exploring career and technical education opportunities.
The presentation will introduce families to MCVSD’s half-day high school programs, which allow students to split their school day between their home district high school and a specialized vocational program. Students typically apply during 10th grade and, if accepted, attend the programs during their junior and senior years.
Representatives from the district will outline the application process, academic expectations, transportation logistics, and the wide range of career-focused pathways available. Programs span multiple fields, including skilled trades, engineering, healthcare, culinary arts, technology, and other hands-on disciplines designed to prepare students for both college and career success.
MCVSD’s Career and Technical Education programs emphasize real-world skills, industry-aligned training, and experiential learning, giving students exposure to potential career paths while still completing their high school education. Graduates often leave with advanced skills, certifications, and a clearer sense of direction for postsecondary plans.
The event is free and open to the public. Families seeking additional information may email [email protected] or visit www.mcvts.org/apply for a complete list of available programs and application details.
The Morris County Vocational School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, creed, sex, age, parental status, physical disability, learning disability, or sexual orientation.
The Morris County Correctional Facility, located at 43 John Street in Morris Township, serves as the primary detention center operated by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.
HANOVER — Hanover Township Police responded to a reported burglary at a commercial business along Route 10 East in the Whippany section of the township late Sunday night, January 4.
At approximately 11:35 p.m., officers were dispatched to the location following the activation of a burglar alarm. Upon arrival, an officer observed a white utility van exiting the business property at a high rate of speed. While following the vehicle eastbound on Route 10, the officer observed multiple motor vehicle violations related to the vehicle’s registration and attempted to conduct a traffic stop.
The driver failed to yield to emergency lights and sirens, initiating a pursuit that continued along Route 10 and into nearby residential neighborhoods in the area of Troy Hills Road. The vehicle eventually stopped on a residential street, where three occupants fled on foot in multiple directions.
With several officers already in the area, one suspect was located near David Drive and taken into custody. Due to two additional suspects still outstanding, Hanover Township Police requested mutual aid from surrounding law enforcement agencies.
Assistance was provided by the East Hanover, Parsippany, Morris Township, and Morristown police departments, along with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. Through the coordinated response, the remaining suspects were apprehended, the vehicle allegedly used in the burglary was secured, and items believed to be proceeds from the burglary were recovered.
The commercial business was confirmed to have been burglarized during the investigation.
The following individuals were arrested in connection with the incident:
Christopher Sollena, of Staten Island, New York Luis Morales, of Brooklyn, New York Joseph Rinaldi, of Staten Island, New York
All three individuals were charged with multiple criminal offenses, including third-degree burglary and second-degree theft. They were subsequently lodged at the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a pretrial detention hearing.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Officer Stephen Manney at [email protected] or Detective Erick Magley at [email protected].
The Hanover Township Police Department thanked the assisting agencies and residents for their continued cooperation and support.
Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.
MORRIS COUNTY — A sweet, soft-eyed Maltese named Snowflurry is hoping her next chapter will be written in a loving home after spending her entire life in a puppy mill. Now safe and cared for by WISE Animal Rescue, Snowflurry is learning what comfort, kindness, and family truly mean.
Snowflurry is a 7-year-old female Maltese, extra small in size, with a gentle soul and a heart full of affection. Born on September 16, 2018, she spent years as a breeding dog before being rescued when she was no longer considered “useful.” Thanks to the intervention of WISE Animal Rescue, Snowflurry was spared and given a second chance at life.
WISE Animal Rescue is entirely volunteer-run, and every donation made to the organization goes directly toward the animals in its care. Through partnerships with supportive veterinary practices, WISE is able to provide both standard and specialized medical and behavioral care—giving dogs like Snowflurry the opportunity to heal and thrive.
Regardless of which dog is adopted, WISE asks adopters to support the rescue’s mission with a minimum donation of $850, which helps ensure all animals receive the care they need.
Snowflurry’s personality reflects her quiet resilience. She is a tender, affectionate dog who finds comfort being close to her people. She enjoys being held, responds warmly to gentle voices, and loves curling up on a lap for a peaceful nap. Once trust is established, she forms strong bonds and becomes deeply devoted.
Despite her past, Snowflurry has a calm and loving demeanor and truly enjoys quiet moments of connection with those she trusts.
Snowflurry would thrive in a patient and experienced home where she can continue building confidence at her own pace. A calm household that understands her need for reassurance will allow her personality to shine. Those interested in giving Snowflurry the loving home she deserves can visit WiseAnimalRescue.org to complete an adoption application.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2026. Click here to view the magazine.
DOVER — Residents are invited to connect one-on-one during a series of monthly office hours hosted by Dover Councilwoman Daniella Mendez, offering an open forum for conversation, questions, and community concerns.
The office hours will be held on the last Saturday of every month from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Dover Public Library, located at 32 East Clinton Street.
Designed as an informal and welcoming setting, the monthly sessions provide residents with an opportunity to speak directly with Councilwoman Mendez about issues that matter most to them and the broader Dover community.
“Monthly office hours are an open, friendly space for conversation and connection,” Mendez said. “Come by, say hello, and let’s talk about what matters most to you and our community.”
The 2026 schedule includes:
January 31
February 28
March 28
April 25
May 30
June 27
July 25
August 29
September 26
October 31
November 28
December 26
Residents are encouraged to stop by any session to share ideas, ask questions, or simply introduce themselves. No appointment is necessary.
For those unable to attend during the scheduled times, residents are encouraged to reach out by email at [email protected] to continue the conversation.
The Saks OFF 5th store at 180 Route 10 West in East Hanover is scheduled to close on January 17 as part of a nationwide store optimization plan affecting nine locations.
EAST HANOVER — Luxury off-price fashion retailer Saks OFF 5th will close its East Hanover location later this month as part of a broader national store reduction.
The store, located at 180 Route 10 West, East Hanover, is scheduled to close at the end of business on January 17, according to an employee at the location. No special closing sales are planned. The store offers discounted luxury apparel, footwear, and accessories.
According to a report by USA Today, Saks Global plans to close nine Saks OFF 5th locations nationwide, with the East Hanover store among the affected properties. The closures are set to begin in January 2026 and are part of an effort to “optimize” the company’s store presence.
In a statement, the company said the move will “enable us to place greater attention to our high-performing and high-potential store locations, and refinements across our store footprint.”
Saks OFF 5th Stores Scheduled for Closure:
East Hanover, New Jersey
Austin, Texas
Chicago, Illinois
Niagara Falls, New York
Pittsburgh North (McKnight Road), Pennsylvania
Franklin Mall (formerly Philadelphia Mills), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania
Washington, D.C.
West Hartford, Connecticut
Saks OFF 5th currently operates approximately 100 stores across the United States and Canada, according to the company’s website.
MONTVILLE — The Montville UNICO Foundation will host its annual Sunday Pasta fundraiser on Sunday, February 1, 2026, with a 1:00 p.m. seating, at the Montville Senior Center, located at 356 Main Road, Montville.
The family-friendly event will feature a variety of pastas, along with meatballs, sausage, salad, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and desserts. The afternoon will follow the tradition of a classic Jersey Sunday gravy dinner, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own beverages (BYOB).
Admission is $30 for adults, $10 for children ages 6–12, and free for children under 6. Seating is limited, and tables for eight or more may be reserved in advance.
Proceeds from the event will support scholarships and local charitable initiatives funded by the Montville UNICO Foundation.
DOVER — The Dover Board of Education will hold its annual Reorganization Meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria of Dover Public High School, located at 100 Grace Street, Dover, NJ 07801.
The meeting will include the Oath of Office for newly elected and returning board members Debora (Debbie) Acevedo, Kimberly Philips, and Helena Scates, who will be formally sworn in to begin their new terms.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, the Board is expected to conduct its annual reorganization, which traditionally includes the election of board officers and the establishment of committee assignments for the coming year.
The Reorganization Meeting marks the official start of the Board of Education’s work for 2026 and provides an opportunity for residents to hear directly from district leadership as priorities and goals for the new year begin to take shape.
The meeting is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend.
In the tradition of colonial-era town criers, Denville Town Crier Douglas Gabel delivers announcements following Director Shaw’s remarks, calling out upcoming Morris County events planned in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners convened tonight for its annual reorganization, installing new leadership and swearing in reelected county officials as a town crier stepped forward to formally announce that the New Year marks the 250th anniversary of America’s independence.
Commissioner Stephen H. Shaw was sworn in as director and Commissioner John Krickus as deputy director of the board during the 6 p.m. meeting on the fifth floor of the Administration and Records Building in Morristown. Oaths of office also were administered to fellow Commissioners Douglas R. Cabana, Thomas J. Mastrangelo and Christine Myers, who were each reelected in November to three-year terms on the board, and Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, who was reelected to his fourth, five-year term.
A lifelong New Jersey resident serving his third term on the board, Director Shaw previously served as director in 2021 and most recently completed two consecutive years as deputy director. State Sen. Joseph Pennacchio administered the oath as Shaw’s wife, Cindy, held the Bible.
Senator Joseph Pennacchio administers the oath of office to Stephen H. Shaw, who was sworn in as director, as his wife, Cindy Shaw, holds the Bible.
“It is an honor to be chosen to serve as director in the year of the nation’s milestone anniversary. Each member of this board brings a different skillset, institutional knowledge and personality. We may not always agree, and sometimes our discussion can be spirited, but to me that is a strength that makes us arrive at better policy decisions,” Director Shaw said.
“Tonight, we will be appointing hundreds of volunteers that serve on our various advisory committees, commissions and boards. They are the heart and soul of our county government. Some have served for decades, and they all bring a wealth of talent and perspective to our board. Thank you all for your volunteer work,” he continued.
In the fashion of town-criers of yore, who would shout news and proclamation in the streets of colonial-era America, Denville Town Crier Douglas Gabel stepped forward after Director Shaw’s remarks to shout out events planned in Morris County this year in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Gabel, a former Denville councilman and current Morris County park commissioner, encouraged municipalities and residents to participate in the county’s semiquincentennial celebrations, reminding everyone to visit morriscounty250.org and follow @MorrisCounty250 on Facebook and Instagram for updates and a complete calendar of programs and events.
Commissioner Krickus, who has served on the board since 2020, including as director in 2023, was sworn in as deputy director by U.S. Rep. Thomas Kean, Jr. as Krickus’s wife, Carolyn, held the Bible.
“The hard work of this board and our county administration and employees allow me to say that Morris county is the best run county in New Jersey, by far,” said Deputy Director Krickus, before highlighting the ongoing initiatives supported by the commissioners at the County College of Morris and Morris County Vocational School District.
Commissioner Cabana, the longest-serving member of the board and now beginning his 11th term, was also sworn in by Congressman Kean, with the Bible held by Cabana’s sister, Amy Bucco, and her husband, State Sen. Anthony Bucco.
Commissioner Cabana, the longest-serving member of the board and now beginning his 11th term, was also sworn in by Congressman Kean, with the Bible held by Cabana’s sister, Amy Bucco, and her husband, State Sen. Anthony Bucco. Cabana has served five times as director and four times as deputy director since joining the board in 1997.
Commissioner Mastrangelo, who had been director in 2013 and 2014, was sworn into his sixth term by his daughter, attorney Brittney Mastrangelo, while the Bible was held by his wife, Debbie, and their son, Chris.
Commissioner Mastrangelo, who had been director in 2013 and 2014, was sworn into his sixth term by his daughter, attorney Brittney Mastrangelo, while the Bible was held by his wife, Debbie, and their son, Chris.
Commissioner Myers, who is serving her third term, had been director in 2024. She was sworn in by Congressman Kean as her husband, Stan, held the Bible.
Commissioner Myers, who is serving her third term, had been director in 2024. She was sworn in by Congressman Kean as her husband, Stan, held the Bible.
Sheriff Gannon was sworn into his fourth term by Morris/Sussex Superior Court Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz. The Bible was held by the sheriff’s daughter, Kate, along with his son-in-law, Matt, his grandchildren, Luca and Ella, and his girlfriend, Lisa.
Sheriff Gannon was sworn into his fourth term by Morris/Sussex Superior Court Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz. The Bible was held by the sheriff’s daughter, Kate, along with his son-in-law, Matt, his grandchildren, Luca and Ella, and his girlfriend, Lisa.
Other board members who joined the event were past-Director Tayfun Selen and Commissioner Deborah Smith. During the meeting, Commissioner Smith noted the recently presented 2026 Capital Budget and reaffirmed the board’s support for Israel, while Commissioner Selen deferred his remarks to a video summarizing highlights from the past year and previewing 2026 as a historic milestone.
National Anthem sung by Erin Dawson, a senior at the Morris County Vocational School District Academy for Performing Arts.
The ceremony opened with a color guard procession led by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Joint Honor Guard, accompanied by bagpipes performed by Douglas Parody of the Police Pipes and Drums of Morris County. Sheriff Gannon led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the National Anthem sung by Erin Dawson, a senior at the Morris County Vocational School District Academy for Performing Arts.
The Rev. Michael Muller of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church of Mountain Lakes delivered the invocation and benediction.
A moment of silence was held in memory of Desmond Lloyd, a widely respected Morris County restaurateur and entrepreneur who, with his wife, Alice, opened The Grand Café in Morristown in 1981. An Irish immigrant who became a U.S. citizen in 1976, Lloyd built a life defined by hard work, generosity and community service, supporting numerous boards, organizations and charitable initiatives. He passed away on December 20, 2025, at the age of 85.
Included in the moment of silence was former U.S. Rep. Richard “Dick” Zimmer, who passed on New Year’s Eve. He served three terms in the House, after serving as a state Senator and state Assemblyman, representing portions of Morris County during his tenures in state and federal offices.
The Board of County Commissioners will hold its next work session and regular meeting on January 7, 2026 at the Administration and Records Building. The work session begins at 5:00 p.m. and the regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. The meetings will continue to be held publicly in the Administration & Records Building and live streamed via WebEx through the county’s website.
MORRIS COUNTY — A Rockaway Township man has been charged following an investigation into an incident reported at a local business late last year, according to the Denville Police Department.
Police said that on November 30, 2025, at approximately 10:40 a.m., officers responded to a call at the Starbucks located at 28 West Main Street after receiving a report of a male using his cellphone to record and photograph juvenile females inside the store.
The individual was later identified as 57-year-old Roger H. Walker of Rockaway Township. During the investigation, police determined that multiple witnesses reported hearing Walker falsely identify himself as a law enforcement officer. Authorities said Walker allegedly displayed what he claimed to be a badge while making the representation.
As a result of the investigation, Walker was issued a summons charging him with impersonating a law enforcement officer and harassment. He is scheduled to appear in Morris County Superior Court at a future date.
Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
MORRIS COUNTY — A Morris Plains man was arrested on multiple drug, weapon, and warrant charges following a motor vehicle stop conducted by the Denville Police Department on New Year’s Day.
According to police, officers conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 10 eastbound at approximately 7:45 p.m. on January 1, 2026, due to equipment violations. During the investigation, officers identified a passenger in the vehicle as 48-year-old Eugenio Carmona of Morris Plains.
Police determined that Carmona initially provided false identifying information and was found to have multiple outstanding warrants for his arrest. As the investigation continued, officers discovered that Carmona was in possession of controlled dangerous substances, drug paraphernalia, and a weapon allegedly possessed for an unlawful purpose..
Carmona was charged with two counts of possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and hindering apprehension. Authorities also confirmed active warrants issued by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, along with ATS warrants from Parsippany, Woodland Park, Hanover Township, and Totowa municipal courts, totaling $9,500.
Following his arrest, Carmona was processed and transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where he remains pending a future court appearance.
Editor’s 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 a reasonable doubt.
