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Morris County Expands “Joy for All” Companion Pet Program

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County resident Ana Rios receives her companion pet dog.

MORRIS COUNTY — During the holiday season, Morris County distributed robotic companion pets to seniors living in county-supported housing as part of the “Joy for All” Companion Pet Program, sponsored by the Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming and expanded this year to include the Morris County Housing Authority.

The Office on Aging partnered with the Housing Authority in 2025 to broaden the program’s reach to seniors residing in senior housing. As part of the expansion, the Housing Authority received 36 robotic companion pets, 26 of which have already been distributed to residents age 60 and older.

Morris County resident Carmen Hernandez with her companion pet dog.

“Our aging residents are an essential part of Morris County, and their well-being is a top priority. We look forward to the comfort these companion pets will bring to our older neighbors — people who have contributed so much to our community,” said Commissioner Christine Myers, liaison to the Human Services Department.

The companion pet program was launched in 2024 to help reduce social isolation, loneliness and cognitive decline among older adults by providing the comfort and companionship of a pet without the responsibilities associated with caring for a live animal. In its first year, the program distributed 110 robotic companion pets to eligible residents and facilities throughout Morris County and partnered with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Project Lifesaver program.

The robotic cats and dogs are designed to respond to motion and touch, offering realistic behaviors such as purring, rolling over, barking and wagging their tails.

“The companion pets have been the focus of rigorous, peer-reviewed studies demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing loneliness and social isolation,” said Christine Hellyer, director of the Office on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming. “Recipients often name their pets and keep them as long as they wish, forming meaningful emotional connections.”

The program is funded through the Aging American Rescue Plan. To qualify, recipients must be at least 60 years old, homebound, and either socially isolated or living with dementia or a similar cognitive condition.

Young Artists Shine at Jefferson Township Student Art Recognition Ceremony

By
Frank Cahill
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Alexa Scholz, Logan Martin, Jonathan Denicoli, and Declan Davis are pictured at the December presentation. Sydney Morgan was not present.

JEFFERSON — The Jefferson Arts Committee proudly announced its December 2025 Student Artists of the Month (SAM) recipients, recognizing outstanding student artwork from Jefferson Township schools during a presentation held on Wednesday, December 10, at the Jefferson Township Public Library.

Students were invited to describe their artwork during the ceremony. With gentle encouragement from Jefferson Township art teacher Jennifer Tamayne-Hettema, the young artists confidently shared insights into their creative process and inspiration.

December 2025 Student Artists of the Month

  • Jonathan Denicoli – Arthur Stanlick Elementary School
  • Logan Martin – White Rock Elementary School
  • Sydney Morgan – Jefferson Township High School
  • Alexa Scholz – Jefferson Township High School
  • Declan Davis – Jefferson Township High School

In attendance were Susie Wright, SAM Chairperson, Carol Punturieri, President of the Jefferson Arts Committee, and several district art educators, including Jennifer Tamayne-Hettema (White Rock, E.T. Briggs, and Arthur Stanlick Elementary Schools) and Ellen T. Briggs, who assisted with the presentation and discussed each student’s artwork alongside the artists.

Each month, Jefferson Township art teachers select exceptional student pieces and submit them to the JAC. The selected artwork is displayed for one month at the Public Library, after which the previous month’s pieces are showcased at the Jefferson Township Board of Education offices on Route 181 in Lake Hopatcong. The program culminates each month with an awards presentation, where students receive a certificate and medal recognizing their achievement, surrounded by family and friends.

The SAM program will resume in January, and toward the end of the 2025–2026 school year, all participating students and their families will be invited to a special end-of-program reception and exhibit at Jefferson Township High School. The celebration will coincide with the school’s annual art exhibit and feature a guest speaker.

Participating Art Teachers for 2025–2026

  • Jennifer Tamayne-Hettema – White Rock, E.T. Briggs, and Arthur Stanlick Elementary Schools
  • Renee Trevenen – Jefferson Township Intermediate School (Grades 6–8)
  • Edouard Jacques – Jefferson Township Intermediate School (Grades 4–5)
  • David DeVries, Stephanie Wassmer, and Kaia Canales – Jefferson Township High School

The Student Artists of the Month program was conceived more than two decades ago by former JAC President, the late Jack Kelly, to celebrate and encourage artistic talent among Jefferson Township students. Committee members continue to honor his legacy and service to the community.

The Jefferson Arts Committee extends its sincere thanks to the Jefferson Township Public Library for hosting the monthly exhibits and presentations, the Board of Education for displaying student artwork in its offices, the district’s art teachers, and Maria Dunbar, Supervisor of Fine Arts, for their continued support and participation.

Multi-Town Prostitution Investigation Leads to Charges Against Oak Ridge Man

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

MORRIS COUNTY — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Criminal Justice announced that Ricardo Botti, 56, of Oak Ridge, is among seven individuals charged in connection with an alleged large-scale prostitution enterprise tied to illicit massage parlors operating across multiple towns in New Jersey and New York.

Botti faces charges that include promoting prostitution, along with additional counts tied to the broader racketeering and money-laundering investigation, authorities said. Prosecutors allege he played a supporting role in the operation alongside several co-defendants accused of managing, facilitating, or profiting from the alleged network.

According to state officials, the investigation centers on an organization authorities say was led by Jessica Yan Xiong, 50, of Oakland Gardens, New York, and Zitian Zhang, 34, of New Hyde Park, New York. Both face first-degree racketeering and money-laundering charges, as well as counts of leader of organized crime, promoting organized street crime, and promoting prostitution.

Investigators allege that Zongan Lin, 50, of Lake Hiawatha, used his massage license to obtain and maintain business licenses for multiple massage parlors that were allegedly fronts for prostitution. Authorities say Lin held or maintained licenses for several locations despite prior prostitution-related enforcement actions and maintained residences and business ties in Parsippany, Lake Hiawatha, and East Hanover, all of which were searched during the investigation.

Court documents identify multiple massage parlors allegedly connected to the operation, including Yan’s Massage and Reiki in Newfoundland, JW Holistic Spa in Fair Lawn, Star Massage and Reiki in Hillsborough, Kyoto 14 in Passaic, Violet Spa in Williamstown, and Sunny Spa in New Brunswick. Prosecutors allege these locations were used for prostitution based on surveillance, online reviews, interviews, and financial analysis.

Also charged are Thowleong Chew, 43, of Flushing, and Min Li, 41, of Flushing, who authorities allege transported women and supplies between locations, and Alfredo Sibaja-Sanchez, 53, of West Milford, whose charges include promoting prostitution.

On December 2, 2025, law enforcement executed coordinated search warrants at numerous locations across New Jersey and New York, including a residence in Lake Hiawatha connected to Lin. Authorities reported seizing more than $150,000 in cash, with financial records and bank deposits indicating more than $500,000 in alleged illicit proceeds.

“This investigation dismantled a sophisticated criminal network that exploited women and generated substantial illegal profits,” Attorney General Platkin said in a statement.

If convicted, first-degree racketeering charges carry potential sentences of 10 to 20 years in New Jersey state prison and are subject to the No Early Release Act.

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 Sheriff’s Office Welcomes New Canine Officer Titan

By
Frank Cahill
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Meet Titan: New Belgian Malinois Joins Morris County Sheriff’s Canine Unit

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Sheriff’s Office has officially welcomed a new four-legged member to its Canine Section with the addition of Titan, a five-month-old Belgian Malinois who has already begun training for future patrol and explosive detection duties.

Sheriff James M. Gannon announced the newest canine officer on December 23, noting that Titan was donated to the Sheriff’s Office after being evaluated for temperament, workability, and suitability for law enforcement service. The young Malinois was originally surrendered to Garden State K9 by a family who found the energetic puppy too challenging to manage. After a thorough assessment, trainers determined Titan showed exceptional promise for patrol and scent detection work and sought to place him in a professional working environment where he could thrive.

Titan has been paired with Detective Corporal Marc Adamsky and has already begun the critical bonding process and early-stage training. At this stage, training is focused on building confidence, sociability, and drive, using food and toy rewards to reinforce learning and performance. Over time, Titan will be trained in obedience, tracking, evidence recovery, suspect searches both on and off leash, explosive odor detection, criminal apprehension, and handler protection

Detective Corporal Marc Adamsky and Titan

The training process will continue until Titan achieves certification in both explosive detection and patrol techniques. These certifications will be conducted through evaluations by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office as well as the United States Police Canine Association, ensuring the canine team meets rigorous performance standards. Titan is expected to begin working on the road and responding to calls for service at approximately two years of age.

Once fully certified, Titan is slated to replace Detective Corporal Adamsky’s current partner, Canine Tim, a nearly nine-year-old veteran trained in narcotics detection and patrol techniques who has served with distinction alongside the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team. Tim’s service record sets a high bar, one the Sheriff’s Office is confident Titan will meet in the years ahead.

The Morris County Sheriff’s Office currently operates with seven canine handlers and twelve canines trained across multiple disciplines. Through the month of November alone, the Canine Section responded to 742 calls for service, underscoring the vital role these highly trained teams play in public safety throughout the county. With his training underway, Titan is expected to continue that tradition of excellence.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2026. Click here to view the magazine.

Senate Approves Pennacchio Bill to Maintain Tax Benefits for Independent Contractor

By
Frank Cahill
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Senator Joe Pennacchio

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Senate has approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio aimed at protecting the independent contractor status of real estate professionals while allowing them to continue receiving commission income through limited liability companies (LLCs).

The measure, known as S-4889/A-5978, amends existing state law to clarify that real estate agents may accept commission payments through an LLC without jeopardizing their classification as independent contractors—an issue that surfaced following new registration requirements enacted last year.

According to Pennacchio, the bill is designed to ensure real estate professionals can preserve their independence while benefiting from federal tax deductions available to independent contractors.

“This bill ensures that New Jersey real estate professionals can keep their independence while taking full advantage of federal tax benefits,” Pennacchio said. “It’s a simple, common-sense fix that will protect realtors’ hard-earned money while making New Jersey a more business-friendly state.”

Industry advocates raised concerns that the prior registration changes could have unintentionally forced real estate professionals into employee status, potentially eliminating access to important federal tax advantages. The newly approved legislation addresses those concerns by clearly defining that commissions paid through an LLC do not alter a realtor’s independent contractor standing.

With Senate approval secured, the bill now advances through the legislative process as New Jersey lawmakers continue efforts to balance worker protections with flexibility for small businesses and independent professionals across the state.

Denville Man Arrested After Motor Vehicle Stop Escalates on Route 46

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

DENVILLE — A routine motor vehicle stop on Route 46 East escalated into an arrest Monday morning after a driver allegedly became uncooperative and assaulted officers, according to the Denville Police Department.

Police said the incident occurred on December 15, 2025, at approximately 8:47 a.m. near Franklin Road, when officers conducted a traffic stop for an alleged cell phone violation.

During the stop, the driver—identified as Nicholas Piolli, 35, of Sussex Borough—reportedly refused to cooperate with officers and declined to identify himself. Authorities said officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, but Piolli allegedly slammed his vehicle door against them.

Following a brief struggle, officers were able to take Piolli into custody. He was transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing.

According to police, Piolli was charged with resisting arrest by physical force, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, and obstruction of the administration of law, along with several motor vehicle violations, including failure to use a hands-free device and failure to possess a driver’s license, registration, and insurance.

After processing, Piolli was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where he was held 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.

Police: DWI Suspect Nearly Hits Patrol Car

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MOUNTAIN LAKES — A Boonton Township man was arrested following a late-night traffic stop in Mountain Lakes after police said his vehicle crossed into the wrong lane and nearly struck a patrol car.

According to authorities, the incident occurred at approximately 12:42 a.m. on November 22 along the Boulevard, when an officer on patrol observed a vehicle veer into the opposite lane of travel, narrowly avoiding a head-on collision.

An investigation led to the arrest of Jose Lopez-Fabian, 39, of Boonton Township.

Police said Lopez-Fabian was charged with multiple motor vehicle offenses, including driving while intoxicated, operating a motor vehicle while in possession of narcotics, reckless driving, careless driving, failure to maintain lane, and refusal to submit to chemical breath testing.

He was also charged with criminal offenses, including unlawful possession of four or fewer prescription legend drugs and obstructing the administration of law.

Lopez-Fabian was released pending mandatory court appearances.

Calais Foundation’s Year-End Appeal Focuses on Empowering Extraordinary Students

By
Frank Cahill
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Jacob M., a student at The Calais School, is thriving thanks to the support of the Calais Foundation’s 12 Plus and Work-Based Learning programs—an inspiring example of how community giving helps students with disabilities build confidence, independence, and a path toward a successful future.

HANOVER — The Calais Foundation has launched its 2025 Year-End Appeal, calling on the community to help transform the lives of students with disabilities at The Calais School. This year’s campaign shines a spotlight on the inspiring journey of Jacob M., a Calais student whose story exemplifies the power of belief, opportunity, and community support.

Every child has untapped potential waiting to be discovered. For Jacob, that journey began with uncertainty. When he first enrolled at The Calais School, the prospect of independent living or succeeding in a fast-paced work environment seemed out of reach. Through the unwavering support of The Calais Foundation and The Calais School’s 12 Plus and Work-Based Learning programs, Jacob began to gain confidence in his abilities and envision a future filled with possibility.

A pivotal moment in Jacob’s journey came through a work-based partnership with Johnny’s Pizzeria, where he gained hands-on, real-world experience. There, Jacob learned the importance of teamwork, managing pressure, and taking pride in his work. With encouragement from Chef Al-Nissa Salaam in The Calais School’s Culinary Program, Jacob embraced the belief that determination and hard work could open doors he once thought were closed.

Jacob’s accomplishments were celebrated this past spring when he was honored at the Calais Foundation Gala. Shortly thereafter, he began an exciting new chapter—living independently and pursuing his passion at Universal Technical Institute.

Today, Jacob is thriving. He is building a career, living independently, and shaping a promising future. His journey highlights the transformative impact of Calais Foundation programs and the generosity of donors who make these opportunities possible.

“When you give to The Calais Foundation, you’re not just making a donation—you’re investing in potential,” said Richard Gentles, President of the Calais Foundation. “You’re helping students with special needs gain the confidence, skills, and independence they need to thrive.”

Jacob’s success is a powerful reminder that community support changes lives. Contributions to the Calais Foundation 2025 Year-End Appeal directly fund programs that help students and young adults with special needs reach their fullest potential.

To donate or learn more, click here.

Mail-In Ballot Drop Boxes Are Now Open!

By
Frank Cahill
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0
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Voters in the 11th Congressional District can securely deposit their Mail-In Ballot for the Special Primary Election at an official ballot drop box starting now through 8:00 p.m. on February 5.

Drop boxes are available 24/7 and are monitored to ensure the security of your vote.

  • Board of Elections Ballot Drop Box
    10 Court Street, Morristown
    Located across the street outside the front entrance to the Morris County Courthouse
  • Boonton Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    155 Powerville Road, Boonton
    Located outside the main entrance
  • Butler Borough Ballot Drop Box
    10 High Street, Butler
    Located at the entrance next to the stairs
  • Chatham Borough Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    54 Fairmount Avenue, Chatham Borough
    Located at the south side entrance
  • Chatham Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    58 Meyersville Road, Chatham Township
    Located at the front entrance
  • Denville Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    1 St. Mary’s Place, Denville
    Located outside the main entrance
  • Dover Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    37 North Sussex Street, Dover
    Located in front of the building
  • East Hanover Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    411 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover
    Located in the parking lot near the back door
  • Florham Park Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    111 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park
    Located at the entrance to the Police Department
  • Hanover Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    1000 Route 10, Whippany
    Located outside the main entrance
  • Jefferson Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    1033 Weldon Road, Oak Ridge
    Located outside the main entrance
  • Kinnelon Borough Town Hall Ballot Drop Box
    130 Kinnelon Road, Kinnelon
    Located by the front entrance
  • Madison Public Safety Complex Ballot Drop Box
    62 Kings Road, Madison
    Located in Commuter Parking Lot 3
  • Mendham Borough Ballot Drop Box
    3 Cold Hill Road South, Mendham
    Located outside the front entrance
  • Montville Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    195 Changebridge Road, Montville
    Located in front of the municipal building
  • Morris Plains Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains
    Located outside the entrance
  • Morris Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    50 Woodland Avenue, Morris Township
    Located at the rear of the building by the middle entrance
  • Morristown Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    200 South Street, Morristown
    Located in the rear parking lot by the right-side entrance
  • Mount Arlington Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    419 Howard Boulevard, Mount Arlington
    Located on the left side near the courtroom entrance
    For use only during the January 27, 2026 Special School Election
  • Parsippany Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    1001 Parsippany Boulevard, Parsippany
    Located outside the main entrance facing Route 287
  • Pequannock Municipal Complex – Senior House Ballot Drop Box
    530 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Pequannock
    Located adjacent to the municipal building outside the main entrance to the Senior House
  • Randolph Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    502 Millbrook Avenue, Randolph
    Located outside the main entrance
  • Rockaway Borough Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    1 East Main Street, Rockaway Borough
    Located to the left of the front entrance
  • Rockaway Township Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    65 Mount Hope Road, Rockaway Township
    Located outside the Police Department
  • Town of Boonton Municipal Building Ballot Drop Box
    100 Washington Street, Boonton
    Located by the front entrance

Make your voice heard—every vote counts!

Autumn Costa Makes Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Belmont University

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Autumn Costa, a June 2025 graduate of Hanover Park High School, was named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Belmont University, earning the academic honor through her outstanding scholastic achievement.

Autumn Costa, a graduate of Hanover Park High School, Class of June 2025, was named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester at Belmont University. Costa was among approximately 55 percent of Belmont’s 6,934 undergraduate students who earned the academic distinction.

While attending Hanover Park High School, Costa was actively involved in several extracurricular programs, including membership in the National Honor Society. She also served as a Student Producer with the Hanover Park High School Theatre Department and was a Section Leader and Historian for the Chamber Choir, demonstrating both leadership and a strong commitment to the arts.

“The high percentage of students earning Dean’s List honors reflects more than academic excellence—it reflects who we are becoming together as a Belmont community,” said Dr. David Gregory, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Excellence. “This achievement demonstrates what is possible when students pursue their goals in an ambitious, supportive community committed to the flourishing of all.”

To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must complete a minimum of 12 credit hours during the semester and earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, with no grade below a C.

Located near the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, Belmont University enrolls nearly 9,000 students from every state and 33 countries. The university is nationally recognized for its innovative approach to higher education and its commitment to undergraduate teaching. Belmont offers more than 115 undergraduate majors, 41 master’s programs, and five doctoral programs, with a mission to develop leaders of purpose, character, and wisdom.

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Morris Focus was founded in 2017 and is published in print and online formats. Its mission is to provide timely and accurate news coverage to Morris County residents and promote community engagement and involvement. The newspaper covers various topics, including local government, education, business, and sports. We can be reached by calling (973) 559-6000—a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.

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