Jefferson Place is located on Hellers Lane
Jefferson Township, Morris County
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — For all of our present Town administration’s insistence that they do all they can to help our local schools have the funding they need, there is no way to explain this:
The latest piece of residential development that was negotiated by this administration is doing the exact opposite. As a matter of fact, Jefferson Place on Rte. 15, next to QuickChek, is a double-whammy on us the taxpayers. Worse yet the hardest hit are our children and their schools. Jefferson Place was built with the endorsement of this Mayor under a PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) and that agreement expressly eliminates any property taxes collected from those homes to go to the SCHOOL BUDGET, 95% goes to the town and 5% to the County!! This new development will not pay any school taxes for 25 YEARS!!
If that was not enough, Jefferson Place was built in violation of the NJ Affordable Housing Law and the Builders Coalition is now suing our Township. Knowing full well that any new development must conform to that law. Full disclosure here, I personally fought hard with my Republican caucus colleagues to kill that law but we all know how the majority party holds us under their thumbs.
So, there is our double-whammy. Not only are our children and our schools being deprived of what they deserve but now all of us in Jefferson have our public treasury under the scrutiny of the State because of the feckless and irresponsible treatment we get from this Township’s administration. Don’t take quick smiles, photo-ops and feel-good statements as indicators of good public stewards, they’re not!
DENVILLE — Two men were charged after Denville police said a motor vehicle stop led officers to discover a large container of used cooking oil allegedly stolen from Hunan Taste on Bloomfield Avenue.
According to a public information release from the Denville Police Department, officers conducted a motor vehicle stop at approximately 7:00 a.m. on Friday, May 22, on Route 46 West near St. Mary’s Place after observing several motor vehicle violations. During the stop, officers observed a large container of used cooking oil inside the vehicle. Police said a subsequent investigation determined the occupants had stolen approximately $800 worth of used cooking oil from Hunan Taste.
Police identified the defendants as Jefferson Servil, 27, of Newark, and Kervens Alsas, 30, of Harrison. Both were arrested and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing.
Servil and Alsas were charged with theft by unlawful taking, a third-degree offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3A. Police said the driver also received motor vehicle summonses for failure to possess an insurance card, failure to possess a registration card, delaying traffic, improper use of horn, and driving without a license.
Both individuals were released 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.
Nine local veterans were presented Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners at the county’s annual Memorial Day Observance yesterday outside the historic Morris County Courthouse in Morristown.
MORRIS COUNTY — Nine local veterans were presented Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners at the county’s annual Memorial Day Observance on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, outside the historic Morris County Courthouse in Morristown. The ceremony included a special tribute to Continental Army soldiers who lost their lives at Jockey Hollow nearly 250 years ago.
Deputy Director John Krickus, a retired U.S. Marine Corps veteran, led the annual “Look Back on a Fallen Morris County Hero” tribute, focusing this year on the 56 known Continental soldiers who died during the “Hard Winter” encampment at Jockey Hollow. He specifically recognized two soldiers, Jacob Johnson of present-day Parsippany and Dr. Jonathan Horton of Roxbury, both Morris County residents who died during the encampment.
The keynote address was delivered by Vietnam veteran James Ferguson of Mountain Lakes, who served in the U.S. Navy from 1963 to 1966, including duty aboard swift boats patrolling coastal waters and rivers in Vietnam. Ferguson reflected on the meaning of Memorial Day, the sacrifices of those who never returned home and the importance of supporting today’s service members and veterans.
“We pause to remember and thank the countless heroes who gave their lives in service to their country,” Ferguson said. “I hope and trust that all Americans will continue to appreciate the service of those who wear the uniform of our great nation.”
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Save Jefferson team, the joint ticket of mayoral candidate Christian Barranco with Council candidates Sheila Brown and Dottie Santasieri, announced two major endorsements ahead of the June 2nd Republican primary: New Jersey Assemblyman Jay Webber and the majority of the sitting Jefferson Township Council.
Assemblyman Webber, a longtime conservative voice in Trenton and a former chairman of the New Jersey Republican State Committee, represented Jefferson Township in the General Assembly for more than a decade after the 2011 legislative apportionment placed the township in his 26th District. The 2022 redistricting process, which redrew district lines following the 2020 census, moved Jefferson out of the 26th, but Webber’s commitment to the township has not changed with the map.
Webber served alongside Christian Barranco in the General Assembly and is endorsing Barranco for Mayor on the strength of that shared record. The two worked together in Trenton fighting for fiscal responsibility, smaller government, and personal freedoms, the same priorities Barranco is bringing to his campaign for Jefferson Township. Webber called Barranco the kind of leader Jefferson needs and the kind of candidate the party needs more of running for office.
In accepting the endorsement, Barranco thanked Webber for his steady advocacy for the township and noted that Jefferson has always been close to his heart, even after redistricting redrew the boundaries of who formally represents it in Trenton.
The Save Jefferson team also announced the endorsement of the majority of the sitting Jefferson Township Council: Council Vice President Barbie Garuto, Councilman Robert Birmingham, and Councilman Daniel Schultz. Sheila Brown thanked them for standing with the campaign, calling their support a clear signal that the officials closest to the day-to-day work of governing Jefferson are ready for new leadership at the top.
Together, the endorsements reflect a coalition that spans state-level conservative leadership and the local officials Jefferson residents already trust to represent them. Barranco closed by reminding residents that the decision now rests with the voters, and urged them to turn out for the Save Jefferson ticket on or before June 2.
Emma Maynard of Lake Hopatcong graduated from The University of Scranton with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and Public Policy and Service during commencement ceremonies held at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre Township, Pennsylvania. Maynard previously served as an intern in the District Office of Assemblyman Christian Barranco.
LAKE HOPATCONG — Emma Maynard of Lake Hopatcong earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and Public Policy and Service from The University of Scranton during commencement ceremonies held on Sunday, May 24, at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza in Wilkes-Barre Township.
Maynard was an intern at District Office of Assemblyman Christian Barranco.
Maynard was among more than 900 graduates who received degrees as members of the University’s Class of 2026. Graduates completed academic requirements during August and December 2025, as well as January and May 2026.
The University of Scranton, a Jesuit university located in Northeastern Pennsylvania, awarded degrees across 61 distinct majors during the ceremony.
County College of Morris celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its 57th Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 21. Keynote speaker Paul Di Maio, President and Chief Executive Officer of Delta Dental of New Jersey and Connecticut, joined CCM President Anthony J. Iacono in congratulating graduates on their accomplishments.
MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its 57th Commencement Ceremony at the William G. Mennen Sports Arena in Morristown on Thursday, May 21. The ceremony commemorated the awarding of associate degrees and certificates of achievement to nearly 1,100 graduates.
Graduates were encouraged to embrace resilience, lifelong learning and leadership as they begin their next chapter. Commencement keynote speaker Paul Di Maio, President and CEO of Delta Dental of New Jersey and Connecticut, reflected on the importance of perseverance, noting that success is built not only on talent, but on the ability to move forward through challenges and setbacks.
“Your degree today proves you have the talent; your time here at CCM has proven you have the endurance,” said Di Maio. “Your completion of the rigors of these studies prove you have the grit.”
CCM’s Board of Trustees, Morris County Board of County Commissioners, CCM President and CCM Cabinet members at the college’s 57th Commencement Ceremony.
Di Maio’s remarks centered on themes of momentum, personal growth and human-centered leadership, urging graduates not to allow fear of failure to prevent them from pursuing career opportunities. “We either succeed or we learn,” said Di Maio, as he advised the graduates to view obstacles as opportunities for growth. “To be successful in life, you only have to get up one more time than you’ve been knocked down.”
As so many graduates and employers are navigating questions about AI and the future of work, Di Maio reassured the class. “AI can calculate, but it cannot lead. It can provide an answer, but it cannot provide the judgment, the empathy or the soul that you bring to the table.”
Graduates of CCM’s Class of 2026 at the college’s 57th Commencement.
CCM President Dr. Anthony J. Iacono delivered remarks, congratulating the graduates and reflecting on the impact and transformative role of community colleges. He noted that CCM is “a uniquely American institution that exists to change lives and strengthen communities.” He acknowledged that community colleges across the nation serve students from all walks of life, from valedictorians and Veterans to career changers, providing a great education without great debt that leads to great careers. “Our more than 50,000 alums stand out for excellence in their professions,” said Iacono.
As part of CCM’s tradition, Iacono highlighted numerous Class of 2026 graduates who have inspiring and compelling stories. He noted, “their hard work, perseverance and unwillingness to give up on their dreams has produced significant success.”
Sebastian Perez Brid, of Wharton, continued a family tradition at CCM, having joined his father and sister as alumni. A highly engaged student leader, he served as president of the Association of Business Graduates, Business Society and CCM Film Society. Perez Brid will continue his studies in business at Montclair State University and serve as CCM’s next Alumni Trustee.
Graduates of CCM’s Class of 2026 at the college’s 57th Commencement.
Christina Alvarado, of Dover, balanced full-time work, family caregiving and her studies in criminal justice at CCM, while volunteering in the community and teaching American Sign Language. She was selected by Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn for a fellowship supporting women interested in government and public service and will continue her studies in criminal justice at Rutgers University.
Emily Piser, of Budd Lake, is a United States Army Veteran who served during Operation Inherent Resolve with the medical support team. She earned her degree in Business Administration and was actively involved in CCM’s Veterans Resource Center. She will continue her education at Centenary University to pursue her bachelor’s degree.
Nicholas Schreiber, of Wharton, is a nationally ranked athlete who pivoted to entrepreneurship during the COVID-19 pandemic and built a successful real estate business before enrolling at CCM. He has excelled academically, earning Dean’s List honors and membership in honor society Phi Theta Kappa, and has been accepted to multiple four-year institutions to continue his education in business.
Dave Joseph, of Roselle, earned his degree in Exercise Science from CCM after initially being recruited to play Division I basketball in Texas before the COVID-19 pandemic brought him back home. At CCM, he helped lead the men’s basketball team to the 2024 District Championship. Joseph will continue his studies at Kean University to pursue a career in physical education and physical therapy.
A. J. Sweeney, of Flanders, graduated with a degree in Liberal Arts and, like many CCM graduates, will continue his studies at a four-year institution. Having spent summers as a head counselor, he seeks to dedicate his life to counseling and working with underserved youth.
Iacono also recognized Claire Whipple, of Bloomfield, and presented her with the 2026 Sherman and Dorothy Masten Memorial Scholarship. Whipple earned her degree in Science and Mathematics: Biology, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She will continue her education at either Rutgers University or the University of Washington.
Candidates who graduated with honors based on high-achieving grade point averages and Honors Program participants were also recognized. The first cohort of the Early College Program, in partnership with the Morris County Vocational School District, also celebrated an important milestone. This was the first ever group of high school students to simultaneously earn their high school diplomas and college degrees.
Iacono granted Faculty Emeritus status to retired Professor John Klages. This honorary lifetime title, the highest honor any professor can receive, recognizes Klages’ distinguished career and contributions to CCM. Having served CCM since 1975 as a faculty member and department chair, Iacono presented him with a resolution, highlighting that “he has shown measurable student impact, subject mastery, and dedication to student success beyond formal instruction.”
Hannah Mescavage, of Belvedere, an academically gifted student with an almost perfect GPA, is, according to Iacono, “one of the most exceptional student leaders I have seen in many, many years.” She served as president of County College of Morris’ Phi Theta Kappa honor society and the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, the college’s largest and most active club, while also leading an Honors in Action project and excelling as a talented musician. She will transfer to Montclair State University to continue her studies in business.
Mescavage addressed the graduates, sharing memories and noting, “all of these experiences have one thing in common; they are memories that only we get to share, and that’s what makes CCM feel more like a home than just a campus.” She also provided graduates with three takeaways from her time at CCM, “always strive for excellence, don’t be afraid to get involved and never give up.”
CCM’s Board of Trustees Chair Paul Licitra, a U.S. Army Veteran, applauded the success of the graduates. “Take your knowledge and skills into the world, but take your humanity too. Be curious. Listen deeply. Build bridges wherever you can,” said Licitra.
Morris County Board of County Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw addressed graduates with remarks inspired by an experiment using AI to write his speech. Finding the results lacked the authenticity and human perspective he sought, Shaw delivered a personal message emphasizing the importance of education, leadership and human connection in an increasingly technology-driven world.
For more information about CCM, visit www.ccm.edu.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris Hills High School Class of 1976 is preparing to celebrate a major milestone with its 50th Reunion on Saturday, September 19, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at the Wharton American Legion Post 91, located at 99 North Main Street, Wharton.
Classmates and guests will enjoy an evening filled with memories, music, food, and friendship as alumni reunite five decades after graduation. Entertainment for the evening will feature Tropical Storm, the band led by classmate Kevin McArdle, along with a DJ. Organizers are encouraging attendees to submit song suggestions to help create the perfect soundtrack for the reunion celebration.
Dinner will be catered by Brick 46 and served buffet-style. A cash bar will also be available throughout the evening.
Prior to the reunion festivities, alumni are invited to take part in a special tour of Morris Hills High School from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on September 19.
Organizers are currently seeking a headcount for the event and ask classmates to provide their contact information, including mailing address, email address, phone number, and the name of any guest attending. Information can be sent to Barbara Borkstrom-Kabasakalian at [email protected] or by calling (973) 580-1433. Correspondence may also be mailed to: Class of 1976 Reunion, P.O. Box 23, Wharton, NJ 07885.
The reunion committee noted they are especially excited to reconnect with classmates and celebrate lifelong friendships formed at Morris Hills High School.
As part of the evening, organizers will also honor classmates who have passed away through a special “Stairway to Heaven” remembrance tribute. The tribute will recognize classmates who are no longer with them in body but remain forever in spirit.
The reunion committee includes Vito Bianco, Barbara Borkstrom-Kabasakalian, Joe Matta, Michele Gizzo-Risley, Dani Jordan-Gendel, Cheryl Dodge-Curtis, Pauline Nudelman-Henderson, Debbie Overbeck-Cirone, Lauren Faas-Lemaster, Renee Schreiber-Melagrano, and Denise McCarthy.
Classmates are encouraged to spread the word and help reconnect fellow graduates for what promises to be a memorable evening celebrating 50 years of friendship, memories, and Morris Hills pride.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Conference of Mayors honored Assemblywoman Aura Dunn for her work to strengthen local communities, naming her Legislator of the Year, at its annual spring convention on Thursday in Atlantic City.
“This award reflects the value I have placed on partnerships with leaders at the local level who have an unmatched understanding of the challenges facing the communities we serve,” Dunn (R-Morris) said. “State lawmakers and mayors best serve the residents we represent when we collectively find solutions to municipal issues. I am grateful for their continued support and collaboration, and their recognition of my efforts to give all levels of government a seat at the decision-making table.”
In her whole-of-government approach, Dunn spearheads an annual meeting with mayors at her district office in Morristown that brings together municipal leaders from Morris and Passaic counties and representatives from state agencies. It serves as a bipartisan workshop session where issues like affordable housing, small business loan and grant opportunities, veteran benefits, and state resources are discussed.
In a letter informing Dunn of the award, the New Jersey Conference of Mayors credited her collaborative spirit and willingness to engage across party lines with fostering meaningful partnerships that drive effective policymaking and strengthen local government throughout the state. The organization writes that Dunn, “has consistently worked to advance fiscally responsible policies, support local economic growth, and address practical challenges faced by mayors and their communities.”
Dunn has served in the New Jersey General Assembly since 2019, where she represents parts of Morris and Passaic counties in the 25th Legislative District.
MORRIS COUNTY — Congresswoman Analilia Mejia will face three challengers in the Democratic primary election on Tuesday, June 2, marking the third election in just five months for the 11th Congressional District seat.
Mejia won a special election earlier this year following the resignation of Mikie Sherrill, who stepped down in January after being elected governor of New Jersey.
Seeking the Democratic nomination alongside Mejia are former Morristown Mayor Donald Cresitello, Montville resident Joseph Lewis, and Chatham Borough Councilman Justin Strickland.
The winner of the Democratic primary will advance to the general election on Tuesday, November 3, where they will face Joe Hathaway, who is running unopposed in the Republican primary, for a full two-year term in Congress.
New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District includes communities throughout Morris County and portions of Essex and Passaic counties. Major municipalities in the district include Parsippany-Troy Hills, Morristown, Randolph, Montville, Denville, Rockaway Township, Chatham Township, Chatham Borough, Livingston, West Orange, Montclair, Verona, Caldwell, Wayne, and Little Falls, among others. The district is considered one of New Jersey’s most politically competitive congressional districts and represents a diverse mix of suburban communities.
Community Members Urged to Join Clothing Donation Event
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Berkshire Valley Presbyterian Church will host a Rummage Sale and Bake Sale on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The event will take place at the church, located at 635 Berkshire Valley Road, Wharton, in Jefferson Township.
Shoppers can browse a wide assortment of items including housewares, clothing, tools, and many other bargains. A bake sale featuring homemade treats and desserts will also be available throughout the day.
Organizers invite residents from the surrounding communities to stop by, support the fundraiser, and enjoy a day of shopping and fellowship.
