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Hanover Township Deputy Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher Seeks Re-election

By
Frank Cahill
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Hanover Township Mayor Thomas "Ace" Gallagher

HANOVER — Our elected officials’ jobs should be to ensure the safety of the community, promote a positive environment for families to live in, learn in, and for businesses to grow in. Hanover Township is a remarkable community filled with residents who care deeply for their township. Thomas “Ace” Gallagher has an appreciation for the things that make Hanover Township the ideal municipality that it is. A born leader, he has what it takes to make Hanover Township a thriving, economically viable sustainable, and safe environment for families. Please continue to familiarize yourself with Thomas “Ace” Gallagher by reading below.

THOMAS “ACE” GALLAGHER

Thomas “Ace” Gallagher is an entrepreneur, a prominent Hanover Township Deputy Mayor, and a strong voice advocating effective change that can bring positive solutions to issues concerning not only residents of Hanover Township, but also to many surrounding municipalities, counties, the State, and the nation. As a trustworthy problem solver, “Ace” has had much experience in budget preparation, township management, policy development, land use, property maintenance, educational issues, traffic, community service, a good listener, and more. He stands up for his convictions on the Township Committee and for the concerns of his neighbors and friends. Those of you who know him can attest to his contagious enthusiasm with which he continues to garner support and confidence. How did “Thomas “Ace” Gallagher become the man he is and how did it all begin?

The son of Terry & Michael Gallagher, “Ace” was born in Bayonne. His family moved to East Hanover Township where his mother taught music in the Hanover Township school district. Coming from a musical family, he inherited a rare talent. Ace was playing the drums at 4 and appearing on stage by the age of 6. His passion follows him to this day – spanning a musical career of 40 years on stage where he has played at some of the best venues and with some of the most impressive people. It was important for Ace to share his love and talent for the drums by teaching for more than 18 years, two of which were spent teaching in Hanover Township schools. He has always believed that the structure and discipline in earning a back belt in karate partnered with his musical study and teaching have helped him immensely with his approach to public service.

Ace’s love and dedication to his music opened the door to many opportunities enabling him to participate in impressive events while meeting some extraordinary people. He continued studying music and began to study business and marketing at County College of Morris. It was then when Ace started to understand the validity of what his parents and musical relatives always told him, “As a musician, no matter how good you may be, you had better start to consider having a Plan B because many musicians that do make big money, typically only make it for a short period of time.” As Ace was beginning to prepare for his Plan B, he accidentally became involved in the tree business. He immediately took to this business because it was loud, and aggressive, and gave him a feeling of accomplishment. If handled properly, he could stand to make a very good living. By the age of 24, Ace became the foreman of the tree company. Realizing that he needed to find something in the industry that would make him unique and put him in demand, he had an epiphany. Everyone was cutting down trees, but no one was grinding the stumps. With that in mind, Ace bought a stump grinder and 12 tee shirts. He took out a $5 ad in the newspaper and so Ace Gallagher Stump Grinding was born.

Gallagher was born into a family of true public servants whose mantra has always been to give back to the community, especially to those who truly need a helping hand. Most of Ace’s introduction to public service began at a very young age through Scouts and church most notably performing several times for Vietnam Veterans in West Orange NJ as early as 1974. So it is only fitting that Ace took his caring for people, and the skills and connections he developed in his field to create, develop and refine the nationally recognized, award-winning “One Day One School” Beautification and Safety Initiative. A source of motivation and inspiration, his beautification program transformed schools throughout the state. This unique program garnered accolades not only for private, and public sector partnerships but for the entire tree care industry and various other trades and skill sets. It isn’t easy to say no to Ace. Armed with volunteers, he was able to complete the most attractive projects amid raves.

Giving back to the community is something that has always been important to Ace. When the late Carmen Blandino asked him to join the Knights of Columbus, he was afraid to add one more meeting to his calendar and considered declining the invitation. He will never forget what Carmen told him, “You already live the life of a Knight every day. You’re doing quite a bit of work to help people in every way you can and it’s noticed, at least by me. Don’t worry about your schedule and the meeting conflicts. We’d love to have you be part of our chapter.” It is impossible to say no to Carmen and Ace never has.
It made sense and was a Fourth Degree Knight, Ace is especially appreciative of the opportunity to participate in this wonderful organization that does so much good for so many.

Throughout Ace’s career in public and community service, he has accumulated numerous accomplishments, awards, and recognitions:

• National recognition and award for One Day One School Beautification & Safety Initiative
• Worked with the state of Massachusetts to create a One Day One School program
• Created and coordinated the Hanover Township School & Park Traffic Safety Advisory Committee for which he received two recognition from the County of Morris
• 2011 elected to the Board of Education
• 2012 Received black belt in Isshinryu Karate
(Ace believes that his black belt has helped him in serving the public)
• 2013 re-elected to Board of Education
• 2014 Sworn in as a member of Hanover Township Committee.
• NJ Green Achievement Award for Excellence in Forestry – Individual and group categories
o NJ Forestry Association
o NJ Urban Forestry Association
o NJ DEP
o NJ Shade Tree Federation
• The SAGE Award from Livingston Township Committee
• Set A Good Example Award- for his participation as a board member of Little League
• Admired for his work with Bandit Industries, the second-largest manufacturer of forestry equipment. His recommendations have been incorporated into equipment being used today.
• Created the NJ Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices and earned the NJ Governor’s Jefferson Award

NJ Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices

One of Ace’s most notable achievements has been his creation of the NJ Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices in which he has united educational leaders, law enforcement, municipal leaders, and local businesses with residents of the community to increase awareness of the drug epidemic and foster a positive lifestyle for our youth.

• He has formed many private and public collaborative relationships with the Morris County Sheriff’s Department, more than 10 New Jersey police departments, MADD (Mothers Against Drink Driving), the NY Jets, Orange County Choppers, and local organized sports groups.

• Provided informational seminars for parents and teens on important subjects such as vaping, mental health, and teen suicide. Updated parents on the latest drug trends and where to get help if needed.

• Provided many social events for kids such as Friday Nights at Mennen Arena, Drum Clinic, Career Night, Law Enforcement Night, Teen Concert Series, family picnics, volleyball tournaments, Martial Arts & Fitness Night, Dance Night, etc.

Hanover Township Committee

Since 2014, Ace has served on the Hanover Township Committee. As a committeeman, his duties have included:

• Director of Hanover Township Building Department
• Liaison to the Hanover Township Board of Education
• Liaison to Economic Development Advisory Committee
• Liaison to Property, Maintenance, and Zoning
• Liaison to the Garden Club
• Liaison to the Hanover Township Substance Awareness Council
• Co-liaison to the Hanover Township Cultural Arts Program

• In his first year, Ace introduced a very aggressive township social media presence to share relevant information with the public. To this day he is known to follow up and continually update and develop the latest trends in social media incorporating the newest forms of technology and media.

Created the “unofficial” Hanover Township Senior Citizens Page.

• Ace worked to create safer pedestrian and vehicular traffic patterns in and around the schools and parks in Hanover Township. The Township School and Park Traffic Safety Sub Committee which he formed was recognized by the NJ Department of Transportation.

*Hanover Township Deputy Mayor

After serving 8 years as Committeeman, Ace assumed the role of Deputy Mayor which assigns him the responsibility of Director of Engineering. It is in this capacity that he has helped Hanover Township thrive with many new and positive initiatives.

• Called attention to the problems of the Whippany River and formed an aggressive Whippany River Flooding Remediation Strike Force. Joining Hanover Township in this venture are Morris Plains, Parsippany, East Hanover, and Florham Park. Together with a renowned engineering firm, they performed a comprehensive analysis and submitted a series of recommendations. These recommendations may very well contribute to valuable federal grant monies.

• As Director of Planning, Ace has been busy evaluating and modernizing local ordinances that have been on the books for many years. This has already translated to benefits for Hanover Township residents.

• Presented to the Township Committee the idea of implementing a new structure for the PILOT (Payment in lieu of taxes) Program and worked with them to achieve one that was more beneficial to the K-8 school district. Met with so much success, it is now being used as a model in other Morris County municipalities.

• Initiated a new, much more aggressive approach in dealing with tax appeals which has already benefited Hanover Township.

• Currently working with the Economic Development Advisory Board to initiate a collaboration with Whippany Park High School Future Business Leaders.

• Created and is currently implementing a three-part Hanover Township Beautification Plan.

*CURRENT AFFILIATIONS
• Board of Trustees 200 Club
• Executive Board Morris County Republican Committee. Co-chair of a County-Wide Strike Force Republican Voter Registration Drive
• Morris County Open Space Advisory Board
• Morris County Chair for Mental Health Association and Gala.

Thomas “Ace” Gallagher resides in Whippany with his wife Sheila and two children where he continues to be a well-respected community leader.

A fine upstanding citizen, Ace Gallagher is known to devote his heart and soul to his family, music, business, and public service.

To learn more about Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, visit: Thomas Ace Gallagher on Facebook
or email him at [email protected].

Early Voting Begins on Friday, June 3

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Based on state guidelines, there are seven locations throughout Morris County for early voting. Eligible Morris County residents can vote at any of the eight locations.

Early voting for the 2022 Primary Election will take place on Friday, June 3 through Sunday, June 5.

Early Voting Hours are:

Friday, June 3 – 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 4 – 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 5 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Boonton Township – Council Chamber Room
155 Powerville Road, Boonton Township 07005

Central Park of Morris County
2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains 07950

Denville – Community Room
1 Saint Mary’s Place, Township of Denville 07834

Hanover – Community Center
15 N. Jefferson Road, Whippany 07981

Madison
Hartley Dodge Memorial – Court Room
50 Kings Road, Madison 07940

Morristown – Morristown Municipal Building
200 South Street, Morristown 07963

Mount Arlington – Civic/Senior Center
18 North Glen Avenue, Mount Arlington 07856

Mount Olive
204 Flanders-Drakestown Road, Mount Olive 07828

22-Year-Old Man Charged with Several Sexual Assault Offenses

By
Frank Cahill
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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.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Rockway Township Police Chief Martin McParland Jr., announce the filing of additional charges against Nathaniel G. Yanez, 22, of Newark and previously of Dover.

Yanez has been charged with two counts of Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2c(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2c(4), crimes of the Second Degree; and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4(a), crimes of the Third Degree.

These charges result from law enforcement’s continued investigation of the defendant after members of the Dover Township Police Department initially charged him with one count of Aggravated Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2a(7), a crime of the First Degree; one count of Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2c(1), a crime of the Second Degree; and one count of Criminal Sexual Contact, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3(b), a crime of the Fourth Degree on March 1, 2022. It is alleged that on May 30, 2021, the defendant sexually assaulted a 15-year-old victim at the Hilton Garden Inn in Rockaway. The following day, it is alleged that the defendant then sexually assaulted a 17-year-old victim in the same location.

The Rockaway Township Police Department members charged the defendant for these additional acts on May 5.

The defendant continues to be detained at the Morris County Correctional Facility following his arrest on the initial charges.

Yanez is scheduled to appear in court on July 11. Anyone with information relating to these cases or any related incident is asked to call Detective Melissa Enslen of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6307. Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank the Rockaway Township Police Department, the Dover Township Police Department, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office’s Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit for their efforts in the investigation, arrest, and continued detention of this defendant.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Will Anton Graduates from Ohio Wesleyan University

By
Frank Cahill
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Ohio Wesleyan University. File Photo

MADISON — Will Anton graduated this spring from Ohio Wesleyan University.

Anton earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and was a Business (Marketing Concentration) major and a History minor.

Ohio Wesleyan held its 178th commencement ceremony on May 7, with keynote speaker Amy Acton, M.D., M.P.H., encouraging the Class of 2022 to “get in some John Lewis good trouble … create the conditions in which all of us can lead flourishing lives … (and) lead with courage and compassion.”

“You are not an ordinary generation,” said Acton, who served as the senior health adviser to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Because we’ve never before had the entire world go through the same thing at the same time in quite this way.

“I’ve started to think of you as Generation C, and that is not for just COVID, or chaos, or all of the challenges you have faced,” said Acton, who was awarded a 2021 Profile in Courage Award from the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation for her pandemic leadership. “But I think of it for your courage, for your compassion, that you’re collaborative, that you change agents.”

In addition to Acton, graduating senior Olivia Anderson of Toledo, Ohio, also shared words of wisdom and inspiration with the crowd.

“There is no universal experience here – each one of us has walked our own individual path on this campus,” said Anderson, a Studio Art major, and Theatre minor. “However, we do have two very special things in common: ambition and adaptability. We of all classes have endured the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. Despite all the odds being against us, we have persevered.”

President Rock Jones, Ph.D., congratulated the Class of 2022 for persevering through a pandemic and urging them to use their OWU educations to improve the world.

“You were less than halfway through your time at OWU when the campus closed and you went home,” Jones said, recalling the March 2020 mandate. “Remarkably, your education did not end. In due time, you returned to campus, and today we are back in front of Merrick Hall celebrating the unique accomplishments of the bold and irrepressible Class of 2022. …

“Now you look ahead, with a lifetime of opportunity in front of you,” Jones said. “You are more than ready, and we are more than eager to watch, as we are fully confident that you who have created yourselves before our very eyes will make an enormous impact on the world that awaits.”

The graduating students included nearly 300 spring, summer, and fall graduates, with three members who achieved perfect 4.0-grade point averages: Lydia Arnold of Tiffin, Ohio; Davis Graham of Canton, Ohio; and Gwendolyn Toves of Dublin, Ohio, who completed her degree in December.

During the Saturday afternoon ceremony, the University honored four outstanding faculty members with special awards:

  • Franchesca Nestor, Ph.D., assistant professor of Politics and Government, received The Sherwood Dodge Shankland Award for Encouragement of Teachers.
  • Bradley Trees, Ph.D., the Richardson-Linebaugh Professor of Physics and Astronomy, was recognized with the Libuse L. Reed Endowed Professorship.
  • Kristina Bogdanov, M.F.A., associate professor of Fine Arts, received the Welch Meritorious Teaching Award.
  • Michael Flamm, Ph.D., professor of History, received the Welch Award for Scholarly or Artistic Achievement.

In addition, Ohio Wesleyan bestowed the Adam Poe Medal upon Robert Gitter, Ph.D. professor emeritus of Economics, in recognition of his recent retirement. Gitter retired in December after 46 years of service to the university and its students.

President Jones concluded the 2022 commencement ceremony with Ohio Wesleyan’s traditional benediction, encouraging OWU’s newest alumni to share their knowledge and compassion with a world in need.

“If, here at Ohio Wesleyan, you have found freedom, take it with you into the world,” Jones said. “If, here at Ohio Wesleyan, you have found peace, go and share it with others. If, here at Ohio Wesleyan, you have found some portion of the truth, go and seek it all the more. If, here at Ohio Wesleyan, you have learned to dream dreams, help one another, and those dreams may come true. If you have known love here at Ohio Wesleyan, give some back to a hurting and bruised world.”

Founded in 1842, Ohio Wesleyan University is one of the nation’s premier liberal arts universities. Located in Delaware, Ohio, the private university offers more than 70 undergraduate majors and competes in 24 NCAA Division III varsity sports. Through its signature program, The OWU Connection, Ohio Wesleyan teaches students to integrate knowledge across disciplines, build a diverse and global perspective, and apply knowledge in real-world settings. Ohio Wesleyan is featured in the book “Colleges That Change Lives” and included on the U.S. News & World Report and Princeton Review “Best Colleges” lists. Connect with OWU expert interview sources at www.owu.edu/experts or learn more at www.owu.edu.

Boonton Knights of Columbus Holds Successful Beefsteak and Comedy Night Fundraiser

By
Patrick Minutillo
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BOONTON — Bite size morsels of juicy, savory, mouth-watering, slivers of tender beef tenderloin (filet mignon), prepared with a butter-based sauce, perched on a round of bread slices (which beefsteak protocol dictates is usually left uneaten and utilized for other purposes) continuously delivered by busy servers on loaded trays, until you cannot possibly devour another bite and throw your hands up in surrender. And do not forget the never-ending supply of crispy, freshly made French fries. Add in a picture or two of cold beer (soda or water for those who do not imbibe) to wash it all down. Sound good?

Bite size morsels of juicy, savory, mouth-watering, slivers of tender beef tenderloin

Boonton’s Walter J. Barrett, Knights of Columbus, Council 1954 hosted just such a feast this past May 20th at their Council on Church Street. The Beefsteak Dinner & Comedy Night Fundraiser was a huge success. There was not an empty seat in the spacious hall that seats two hundred; and the lively crowd knew they were in for a treat as soon as the multiple, full packed, trays of beef started to emerge from the kitchen. These all-you-can-eat, no-frills, no utensils,’ boisterous, gluttonous, fun-packed dinners are common fundraisers for many civic groups and charity fundraisers, and if you were not aware, beefsteaks are a New Jersey thing. Maybe a few in New York or Philly but most definitely a “Jersey” thing! No fancy napkins or white linen tablecloths. The Beefsteak dinner as we know it, even though similar dinners can be traced back to the mid-1800s, was resurrected in 1938 by “Hap” Nightingale, a Clifton butcher, and his classic finger food concept continues today. In fact, Nightingale’s was the caterer for this event.

Knights of Columbus Council 1954

All the proceeds for the evening’s event will go to a variety of charitable endeavors, including Special Olympics, Bishop Daugherty State Scholarships, Local Area Scholarships, Deborah Hospital Foundation, and Wounded Warrior Project, to name a few, as well as many local charities and causes throughout the year.

According to a very amicable and humble, Bob “Cat” Marcello, a Past Grand Knight, Former Federation Chairman, and 4th Degree Knight, “The Knights of Columbus, founded in 1882, is the world’s oldest fraternity, a Catholic organization with charity as its foremost principle. Boonton Council 1954, established in 1919 currently has 220 members, and new applicants are always welcome. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, male, and of the Roman Catholic faith. Even though he would not say it, it was clear that Bob Marcello is one of those rare individuals at the heart of organizations such as the Knights of Columbus. Applicants can receive more information by calling Mr. Marcello at (973) 263-9890

The evening did not simply end with just a great meal! First, the Council celebrated Bob Marcello’s birthday with a delicious cake, ice cream, and a rendition of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” Then when everyone was full and happy and the crowd was anxious for the evening’s entertainment, out came no other than New Jersey legendary comedian and entertainer, Uncle Floyd Vivino. And never one to disappoint, in Uncle Floyd’s own inimitable style, he kept the delighted crowd laughing and cheering throughout his performance. A true local treasure!

Uncle Floyd

Congratulations to the Boonton K of C on a great event for their many great causes.

Knights of Columbus, Council 1954, 213 Church Street, Boonton, NJ 07005 – (973) 263-9890

Township of Hanover Changes Polling Locations

By
Frank Cahill
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HANOVER — Starting with the June 7 Primary Election and all subsequent primary and general elections moving forward, the Township of Hanover will no longer be utilizing the elementary and high school facilities as polling locations.

The new polling locations within the Township will be Hildale Park Presbyterian Church, Hanover Township Community Center, and the Whippany Fire House.

• All registered voters who previously voted in District 2 & 3 Mountview Road School will now vote at Hildale Park Presbyterian Church, 85 Ridgedale Avenue, Cedar Knolls.
• All registered voters who previously voted in District 5 Memorial Junior School will now vote at the Community Center, 15 N. Jefferson Road, Whippany.
• All registered voters who previously voted in District 6 Whippany Park High School will now vote at the Whippany Fire Department, 10 Troy Hills Road, Whippany.
• All registered voters who previously voted in District 7 and District 8 Salem Drive School will now vote at the Whippany Fire Department, 10 Troy Hills Road, Whippany.
• All registered voters who previously voted in District 9 Bee Meadow School will now vote at the Community Center, 15 N. Jefferson Road, Whippany.

The location of your new polling place will appear on the sample Primary Election ballot you receive prior to the June 7, 2022 election. If you have any questions about your new polling place, please contact me at (973) 428-2466 or e-mail [email protected].

Students Named to the University of Vermont Dean’s List

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS PLAINS — The following students have been named to the dean’s list for the spring 2022 semester at the University of Vermont:

Euwen Brennan, Biological Science major, from Morris Plains, is in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Claire Fagan, Sociology major, from Morris Plains, is in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Fiona Foley, Psychological Science major, from Morris Plains, is in the College of Arts and Sciences.

To be named to the dean’s list, students must have a grade-point average of 3.0 or better and rank in the top 20 percent of their class in their respective college or school.

About UVM

Since 1791, the University of Vermont has worked to move humankind forward. UVM’s strengths align with the most pressing needs of our time: the health of our societies and the health of our environment. Our size-large enough to offer a breadth of ideas, resources, and opportunities, yet intimate enough to enable close faculty-student mentorship across all levels of study allows us to pursue these interconnected issues through cross-disciplinary research and collaboration. Providing an unparalleled educational experience for our students, and ensuring their success, are at the core of what we do. As one of the nation’s first land grant universities, UVM advances Vermont and the broader society by discovering and applying new knowledge.

UVM is derived from the Latin Universitas Viridis Montis (in English, University of the Green Mountains).

Morris Township Man Charged with Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo. Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

MORRIS COUNTY —  Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Morris Township Acting Chief Robert Shearer announce the arrest of Michael Rave, 53, of Morris Township.

The defendant has been charged with one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM)) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)biii, a third-degree offense; four counts of Promoting Obscene Material, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:34-3b(2), a third-degree offense; and four counts of Criminal Sexual Contact, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3b, a fourth-degree offense.

The investigation began with a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), referencing video files allegedly depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor.

It is alleged that Defendant was in possession of numerous videos of himself engaged in an online chat website called “Omegle,” wherein he allegedly exposed himself to several 14-year-old victims.

The victims in these instances have been identified by law enforcement. Rave was arrested on the above charges on May 26, and after his arrest, was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility.

Upon being formally advised of the charges against him, he was released pursuant to Criminal Justice Reform and is pending a Pre-Indictment Conference on June 28, 2022.

Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank the Morris Township Police Department, Department of Homeland Security, Morris County Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT), New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Unit for their efforts in the investigation and arrest of this defendant.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Morris County Honors Its Veterans & Fallen in Memorial Day Observance

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners presented their Distinguished Military Service Medals to ten veterans today at the Morris County Annual Memorial Day Observance ceremony outside the Morris County Courthouse in Morristown, where honors also were delivered by state legislators and Congressional representatives.

U.S. Reps. Mikie Sherrill and Thomas Malinowski, Sen. Anthony Bucco, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, and Assemblyman Christian Barranco also presented honors to the veterans, whose service ranged from the Korean War to Operation Enduring in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen

“These medals are unique to Morris County, and they have been awarded for well over 20 years to veterans or their family members to honor their service to our country. And we are proud to continue our tradition today,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen.

“These medals began when we wanted to honor our Greatest Generation – those who fought inWorld War II. But we expanded the program to cover other times of service by our men and women, including the Korean War, Vietnam, and other conflicts when our armed forces put their lives on the line. Once again, we are officially expanding our program. This year, we will include medals specifically designed to recognize service in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan,” said Selen.

The Guest Speaker was Emerson Crooks of the VFW Post 7333 in Randolph, which is hosting the Vietnam Memorial “Moving Wall” – a half-sized replica of the Washington, D.C. monument – at the County College of Morris from July 7 through July 11. Mr. Emerson spoke of the need to continue to honor veterans, noting that the WWI Memorial and WWII Memorials in Washington, D.C. are getting fewer visitors each year and that he fears the monument to his generation’s service in Vietnam will suffer the same fate.

Father Stepan Bilyk of St. John’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in Whippany provided the invocation for the event, beginning with some remarks about Ukraine’s resilience and hope in the face of the ongoing invasion by Russian forces.

Recipients of the Morris County Distinguished Service Medals

Ketankuma “Ketan” A. Shah, Parsippany
Served in the United States Marine Corps in both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Living in North Bergen when he joined the Marine Corps, Mr. Shah served beginning in March 2002 after the terrorist attacks in New York City and Washington, D.C. the previous fall. He continued to serve through August 2010, being trained as a machine gunner and receiving commendations that included the Combat Action Ribbon, Overseas Deployment Ribbon, a Marksman Rifle Badge, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M device, and a Presidential Citation.

Mr. Shah now has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Accounting, and Finance, and he is currently employed as a corporate tax analyst. He volunteers his time organizing Toys for Tots charity campaigns.

Joseph Bryan Barbato, Boonton Township
Served in both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom during nearly 15-years of service with the New Jersey Army National Guard.

Mr. Barbato, who grew up in Haskell, began his service in 2008, which included deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Somalia, the Horn of Africa, and within the continental United States in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He is still finishing his service with the military’s COVID-19 response, which he has been attached to since December 2020.

Mr. Barbato, who has lived in Boonton Township in recent years, is a recipient of the Combat Infantry Badge, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device and 10-Year Bronze Hourglass, the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Good Conduct Medal and the Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal.

Mr. Barbato received a Masters of Social Work degree from Ramapo College, and he works part-time as a social worker and in private security. He enjoys working out at the gym and football.

Robert Kent Shaw, Boonton Township (posthumous)
Served in the Korean War after being inducted into the U.S. Army on April 11, 1951, and, upon returning from Korea on April 17, 1953, Mr. Shaw was transferred to the Army Reserves and honorably discharged on May 6, 1957.

Born in Yeadon PA on July 20, 1929, Mr. Shaw graduated as a machinist from The Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades in Media, PA before entering the military. He served in Korea as a Private First Class with the 7th Infantry Division, also known as the Bayonet Division.

The 7th Infantry Division defended the line from Mundung-ni to the rim of “Punchbowl,” from October 1951 through March 1952. The 7th Infantry also assaulted and captured “Triangle,” “Sandy” and “Jane Russell” hills in October of 1952. Mr. Shaw was a small arms repairman who put his machinist skills to work when the parts for weapons were in short supply. He convinced his commanding officer to set up a machine shop so he could fabricate the needed parts.

Mr. Shaw received the Korean Service Ribbon with three campaign stars and the United Nations Service Ribbon.

After his honorable discharge, he met and married his wife, Anita, and settled in New Jersey, moving in 1967 to Mountain Lakes, where Bob liked to say that they were on vacation 365 days a year. The couple had a daughter and two sons during their 60-year marriage, and four grandchildren.

Initially, Mr. Shaw worked in the field of industrial pollution control where he became a recognized authority in paper mill wastewater treatment and an officer of the Whippany Paper Board Company. In 1973 he founded Shaw Built Homes and became a leader in the home building industry. He served as president of the Builders Association of Somerset and Morris, and he was inducted into the New Jersey Builders Hall of Fame.

In 2000 he was honored as a distinguished alumnus of the Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades. Mr. Shaw inherited a lifelong love of fishing, hunting, boating, and the outdoors. He shared this and his enthusiasm for flying, antique cars, and photography with his family.

David Ernest Brady, Morristown
Served as a U.S Army Medical Corpsman in his term of service, from November 1964 through October 1970 during the Vietnam War.
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William Everett Brady, Morristown
Served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War from June 1962 through June 1965.

Arthur Charles Schumm, Rockaway Borough
Served with the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War from May 2, 1968, through March 30, 1972.

Carl “Mike” Cabañas, Morristown
Served in both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom with the U.S. Army from Oct. 1, 2000, through July 21, 2013.

John P. Wagener, Montville
Served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, from June 1957 through May 1969.

Thomas Philip Infusino, III, Montville
Served in the New Jersey Army National Guard, including a tour in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2013.

Nancy M. Jones, Wharton
Served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from August 1967 through September 1968.

Richard Alan Elfenbein, Flanders (posthumous)
Served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War from 1966 through 1968.

“Look Back On A Fallen Morris County Hero”

The Morris County Commissioners also continued a tradition of including in the annual ceremony a “We do not forget our heroes in Morris County, especially those who fall in combat or during military service.  It is traditional to remember at least one by name at our Memorial Day Observance, and this year we look back on one who suffered through one of the most brutal conflicts of our nation: The Civil War,” said Deputy Commissioner John Krickus.  “Charles Spencer’s life and service to our nation were short, and a story of the sadness and human tragedy found in every war.”

Morris Plains Memorial Day Service and Parade set for Saturday, May 28

By
Frank Cahill
-
0
File photo

MORRIS PLAINS — On Saturday, May 28, starting at 9:00 a.m., the Borough of Morris Plains will hold its annual Memorial Day service at Roberts Garden, at the corner of Glenbrook Road and Mountain Way.

The traditional memorial service, conducted by members of the Morris Plains VFW Watnong Post #3401 and Denville American Legion Post 390, will be followed by comments from special guest speaker Brigadier General William M. Boruff from Picatinny Arsenal.

Then at 9:30 a.m., the 36th Annual Memorial Day Parade will start near the intersection of Glenbrook Road and Mountain Way. The parade travels south on Mountain Way, east on Rosedale Avenue, then north along Speedwell Avenue, past the reviewing stand at the corner of Franklin Place, opposite the railroad station.

The parade then continues north up Littleton Road to Route 53 north where it ends at the VFW Watnong Post #3401.

In 2022, our Grand Marshal is Philip T. Wilk. He is being honored for having served for 50 years as a Morris Plains firefighter. He also is a retired police officer from the Morris Plains Police Department. Phil is joined by his son, Philip, and daughter, Megan in the Central Park Carriage.

The parade, the largest in Morris County, consists of 100 units representing local and county organizations with 16 bands including the Orange High School Marching Tornadoes Band, the Salaam Shrine Temple Oriental Band, the Rory O’Moore Pipe Band, the Denville String Band, and featured at the end of the Parade, the Morristown High School Marching Colonials.

Highlights of the parade will be an appearance by the Future Marines of RSS Northwest, the Mega Robot, and the Idaho Potato Truck that barely fits under the underpass.

Also, once again, The Golden Gup and Lulu will appear and play patriotic tunes while Korean War veteran Dudley Werner; 101-year-old veteran Walter C. Ness; and Mickey and Minnie Mouse accompany them.

And the VFW will host a post-parade gathering for all, with free hot dogs, soda, and beer–plus pony rides, a climbing wall, bounce-around, face-painting, and balloons, courtesy of the parade committee. (No parking at the VFW; please park at the ballfield or the Honeywell lot, just beyond the VFW.)

In case of bad weather, call (973) 538-0325 after 6:30 a.m. to check the parade status.

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