Wednesday, April 2, 2025
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Police Pursuit in Florham Park Ends in Crash; Driver Faces Multiple Charges

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File Photo

FLORHAM PARK — A police pursuit of a stolen vehicle ended in a serious crash at the intersection of Vreeland and Hanover Roads on Thursday, March 14, at approximately 1:15 p.m. The suspect vehicle, which Florham Park Police were pursuing, crashed into a tree after operating erratically on the shoulder and grass.

The driver, identified as Brian Joseph Blozen, 50, of Toms River, was extracted from the vehicle and transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. A passenger in the vehicle sustained minor injuries and was also taken to an area hospital but has since been released from custody without charges.

According to authorities, the Florham Park Police initiated the pursuit after identifying the vehicle as stolen. Following the crash, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit was notified, and Blozen was subsequently charged with multiple offenses, including:

  • 2nd-degree eluding (N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2B)
  • 3rd-degree receiving stolen property (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-10.2)
  • 4th-degree assault by auto (N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1C(2))
  • Possession of drug paraphernalia (N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2)
  • Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10B)

No officers were injured in the incident.

In accordance with New Jersey Attorney General Directive 2019-4, the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) has been notified, and a separate team of investigators will independently review the conduct of the Florham Park officers involved in the pursuit.

The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit is handling Blozen’s prosecution as the investigation remains ongoing.

Editors 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 reasonable doubt.





Dunn Champions Brighter Smiles, Pushes to Nix Tax on Oral Health Products

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Assemblywoman Aura Dunn

MORRIS COUNTY — “Good oral health isn’t just about pearly whites. It’s about overall well-being,” said Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (R-Morris). “No one should have to dig deeper into their pockets just to brush their teeth.”

While other personal care essentials, like feminine hygiene products and most food items, are already tax-free in New Jersey, oral healthcare products remain unfairly taxed despite their critical role in preventing serious medical conditions.

The cost of neglecting dental care is far greater than the revenue New Jersey collects from taxing these products. Poor oral health has been linked to major medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, pneumonia and even dementia.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in children, contributing to millions of lost school hours and over $124 billion in annual dental-related health care costs.

“New Jersey should promote public health, not profit from it,” Dunn added. “Basic health care should be accessible to everyone, not a source of state revenue. A healthier state starts with a healthier smile.”

If passed, Dunn’s (A5449) bill will give residents one more reason to flash their pearly whites—tax-free.







Detective Sean Torres Joins Police Unity Tour to Honor Fallen Officers

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Detective Sean Torres of Mountain Lakes is cycling in the Police Unity Tour to raise awareness and honor officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

MORRIS COUNTY — Mountain Lakes Detective Sean Torres is participating in this year’s Police Unity Tour, a significant fundraising event dedicated to raising awareness for officers killed in the line of duty and supporting the National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum. The Police Unity Tour, known as “The Journey to Remember,” involves thousands of law enforcement officers who cycle in honor of fallen officers, symbolizing their commitment to keeping their memories alive.

The tour begins in Florham Park, on May 9th, and continues to the National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum in Washington, D.C., where it culminates on May 12. During the event, a ceremony honors the fallen officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The funds raised during the Police Unity Tour help ensure the National Law Enforcement Memorial remains a place of remembrance, respect, and reflection for the men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Detective Torres proudly represents his department and honors those who have given their lives while serving their communities.

Support Detective Torres’s Police Unity Tour fund and help honor those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. Click here to donate.





Township of Hanover Committee Meeting – March 13, 2025

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Brian J. Cahill, Michael A. Mihalko, Ronald F. Francioli, John L. Ferramosca, and Thomas "Ace" Gallagher

HANOVER — Township of Hanover Committee Meeting – March 13, 2025.





Dover to Honor Fallen Heroes with Memorial Day Parade

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DOVER—The Town of Dover is preparing to honor the nation’s heroes with its annual Memorial Day Parade on Sunday, May 26, at 10:00 a.m. The community will come together to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country. The parade lineup will begin at Rutan Drive at 9:00 a.m. and pass through town in a proud display of patriotism and remembrance.

Organized by the Town of Dover and Mayor James P. Dodd, along with the Town Council, this year’s parade promises to be a momentous event. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to line the streets, wave American flags, and show their support for veterans, active service members, and the families of the fallen.

The parade will feature local veterans’ organizations, scout troops, school marching bands, civic groups, and first responders. The route will be decorated with red, white, and blue, ensuring a heartfelt tribute to those who have served. A solemn moment of silence and a special ceremony will take place to reflect on the sacrifices of the brave men and women who defended our freedom.

“We will always remember those who gave their lives for our country,” said Mayor Dodd. “This parade is our way of showing gratitude and ensuring their legacy lives on in our community.”

Residents must arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route. After the parade, attendees can participate in a commemorative ceremony, where local officials and veterans will speak about the importance of Memorial Day.

For more information about the parade and how to get involved, residents can visit the Town of Dover’s official website or contact the event organizers.

Let’s unite as a community to honor and remember our fallen heroes. We will always remember.


DOVER, NJ – La ciudad de Dover se está preparando para honrar a los héroes de la nación con su Desfile Anual del Día de los Caídos el domingo 26 de mayo a las 10:00 a.m. La comunidad se reunirá para rendir homenaje a aquellos que hicieron el último sacrificio en servicio al país. La alineación para el desfile comenzará en Rutan Drive a las 9:00 a.m. antes de recorrer la ciudad en una demostración de patriotismo y recuerdo.

Organizado por la Ciudad de Dover y el Alcalde James P. Dodd, junto con el Concejo Municipal, el desfile de este año promete ser un evento trascendental. Se alienta a los residentes y visitantes a llenar las calles, ondear banderas estadounidenses y mostrar su apoyo a los veteranos, miembros activos del servicio y las familias de los caídos.

El desfile contará con organizaciones locales de veteranos, tropas de exploradores, bandas escolares de música, grupos cívicos y socorristas. La ruta estará decorada con rojo, blanco y azul, asegurando un sentido homenaje a aquellos que han servido. Se llevará a cabo un momento solemne de silencio y una ceremonia especial para reflexionar sobre los sacrificios de los valientes hombres y mujeres que defendieron nuestra libertad.

“Siempre recordaremos a aquellos que dieron su vida por nuestro país”, dijo el Alcalde Dodd. “Este desfile es nuestra manera de mostrar gratitud y garantizar que su legado siga vivo en nuestra comunidad”.

Se recomienda a los residentes llegar temprano para asegurar un buen lugar a lo largo de la ruta del desfile. Después del desfile, los asistentes tendrán la oportunidad de participar en una ceremonia conmemorativa, donde funcionarios locales y veteranos hablarán sobre la importancia del Día de los Caídos.

Para más información sobre el desfile y cómo participar, los residentes pueden visitar el sitio web oficial de la Ciudad de Dover o comunicarse con los organizadores del evento.

Reunámonos como comunidad para honrar y recordar a nuestros héroes caídos. Siempre recordaremos.





Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections is Hiring

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Morris County Correctional Facility

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon is accepting resumes for county correctional police officers within the Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections.

Qualified men and women interested in launching careers in New Jersey’s criminal justice system are encouraged to apply.

The American Correctional Association and the National Commission on Correctional Health Care accredit the Morris County Correctional Facility. It is one of only two jails in New Jersey and one of 145 county jails nationwide to hold that distinction.

Positions are open to Civil Service, New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC), and Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC) transfers. The role offers a competitive starting salary and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

Requirements:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
  • Must have a clean criminal background.
  • Must have a clean driving record.
  • Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent.

Qualified applicants will be enrolled into a Police Training Commission Certified Corrections Academy and must pass a state-mandated physical conditioning assessment before academy enrollment, which includes the following standards:

  • Vertical jump: 12.5 inches
  • Sit-ups: 22 in one minute
  • 300-meter run: 84 seconds or less
  • Push-ups: 19 in one minute
  • 1.5-mile run: 19 minutes or less

Interested applicants should submit resumes to Morris County Sheriff’s Office Warden Christopher Klein at cklein@co.morris.nj.us.





East Hanover Volunteer Fire Department Association to Host Cigar Night Fundraiser

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Unwind and enjoy the finer things in life—premium cigars, great company, and a night to remember.

EAST HANOVER – The East Hanover Volunteer Fire Department Association, Inc. is set to host its highly anticipated Cigar Night on Monday, June 16, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at The Highlawn, located at 1 Crest Drive, West Orange.

This exclusive evening will feature a selection of premium cigars, gourmet food, and an open bar. Guests will enjoy an upscale and relaxing atmosphere while supporting the local fire department association.

Tickets for the event are $100 each and must be purchased by June 11, 2025. Payment can be made by check made payable to East Hanover Volunteer Fire Department Association, Inc.

The event is sponsored by Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association and Chad DiGiorgio, adding more community support to the night.

For additional information or to purchase tickets, interested attendees can contact Joe Peluso, Firefighter and President of the Association, at (862) 881-7651 or via email at EHFD323@gmail.com.

Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a sophisticated evening while giving back to the brave men and women who dedicate their time to protecting the community.





East Hanover Action Association to Host Beefsteak Fundraiser for CERT Program

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File Photo

EAST HANOVER – The East Hanover Action Association, Inc. (EHAA) is hosting a Beefsteak Fundraiser in support of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program on Thursday, May 8, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Multipurpose Public Safety Room located within the East Hanover Fire Headquarters, 323 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover.

The CERT program is a vital community initiative that educates residents on disaster preparedness and trains them in basic disaster response skills, ensuring they are ready to assist in emergencies that may impact the area.

Guests attending the fundraiser will enjoy a delicious meal featuring salad, filet mignon, fries, and dessert while supporting a crucial cause. The event is open to the public, and tickets are available for a $65.00 donation.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP by April 30. Checks should be made payable to EHAA and sent to P.O. Box 165, East Hanover, NJ 07936.

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Frank DeMaio at (201) 919-7712 or frankdemaio@optonline.net.

By participating in this fundraiser, attendees will not only enjoy a great evening of food and community but also contribute to the training and preparedness of East Hanover’s CERT volunteers, ensuring the township’s safety and resilience.





Seniors Have “A Place at the Table” During National Nutrition Month

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Susan Jacobs and Alice Huang enjoy a sample of the chicken pot pie soup.

MORRIS COUNTY — Recognizing National Nutrition Month, the Morris County Nutrition Program has partnered with Employment Horizons’ Culinary Arts Training Program to host “A Place at the Table” senior nutrition demonstrations at three county nutrition sites.

The Culinary Arts Training Program prepares individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment for roles in the food service industry. It is partly supported through funding approved by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners. The first event was held on March 7 in Parsippany, with upcoming demonstrations scheduled for March 14 in Mount Olive and March 21 in Roxbury.

Culinary student Nick Figurelli, instructor Kaylee Wickersham and culinary student Dario Torres.

“We all have unique gifts and are meant to use them. Life isn’t just about work; it’s about making a difference, creating value and helping others,” said Commissioner Christine Myers, liaison to the Human Services Department. “There are countless ways to contribute and when we do, the impact reaches far beyond ourselves, regardless of ability.”

At the Parsippany demonstration, Kaylee Wickersham, program manager and instructor at Employment Horizons’ Culinary Arts Training Program, enlisted two students to instruct a group of seniors how to make two easy, nutritious meals: chicken pot pie soup, and peaches and cream oats. Attendees sampled each dish and received take-home kits, which were assembled by residents of the Morris County Youth Shelter, containing ingredients and recipes for the oatmeal.

Culinary student Dario Torres presents a tray of peaches and cream oatmeal samples.

Get the Recipes

“These demonstrations give seniors the tools to take charge of their well-being while also providing valuable skills to the Employment Horizons community, which can lead to new opportunities in the food industry,” said Christine Hellyer, Director of the Office of Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming.

The next senior nutrition demonstrations will be held at 10:00 a.m. on March 14 at the Mount Olive Senior Center and March 21 at the Roxbury Senior Center.  There is availability for new registrants. Call Mount Olive at (973) 448-7474 to reserve a seat and Roxbury at (973) 361-5231.

The Morris County Nutrition Program provides hot nutritious meals, education, and personal interaction through three components: Congregate Meals, Home-Delivered Meals, and Weekend Meals. In 2024, the program served 360,970 meals to Morris County residents.

The 2025 theme for National Nutrition Month is “Food Connects Us.” To learn more click here.





Law Enforcement Night Draws Overwhelming Crowd at Mennen Arena

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The East Hanover Police Department joined the community for Law Enforcement Night, bringing together Sheriff Explorers, the 200 Club, and families to support and celebrate those who serve. Special guests Marshall and Chase from Paw Patrol added excitement to the event, making it a memorable evening of fun and public safety awareness!

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Coalition for Education and Positive Choices, in collaboration with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, hosted a successful Law Enforcement Night at Mennen Arena, drawing a large and enthusiastic crowd.

Members of the 200 Club joined forces with Sheriff Explorers and beloved Paw Patrol characters, Marshall and Chase, for a fun-filled evening celebrating law enforcement and community engagement. The event highlighted the importance of public safety, youth involvement, and support for first responders.

Families, students, and community members gathered to engage with local law enforcement across Morris County, fostering stronger community relationships in a positive and welcoming environment.

The NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices has led Morris County. It has worked tirelessly to provide resources and educational programs to keep youth away from drugs and alcohol. By promoting substance-free activities, the Coalition helps strengthen self-esteem and confidence in young people, giving them the tools to make positive life choices.

A major highlight of the evening was the interactive display of law enforcement and emergency response equipment, featuring ambulances, emergency response units, and the Morris County Hope Van. Attendees saw these vehicles up close and learned more about their vital role in keeping the community safe.

Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon always draws a crowd. Law Enforcement Night at Mennen Arena was no exception as he engaged with residents, officers, and local leaders to promote community policing and safety.

Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon and his team were on hand to meet residents and answer questions. The event also welcomed several local leaders, including Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, East Hanover Councilman Frank DeMaio, Jr., Council President Brian Brokaw, Sr. and Hanover Township Business Administrator Joseph A. Giorgio who supported the initiative.

East Hanover Councilman Frank DeMaio, Jr. and Council President Brian Brokaw, Sr. attended Law Enforcement Night at Mennen Arena, showing their support for local law enforcement and engaging with the community.

“Too often, people only interact with law enforcement and first responders on their worst days,” said Mayor Gallagher. “This event provides an opportunity to connect with them on a very good day.”

The event underscored the importance of community engagement and public safety, strengthening the bond between residents and law enforcement agencies throughout Morris County.

An evening full of hands-on experiences, engaging conversations, and exciting displays, Law Enforcement Night 2025 was a memorable and impactful event for the entire community.

Sheriff’s Officer Justin Yen and his family joined the community in celebrating Law Enforcement Night, an evening dedicated to honoring those who serve and protect. The event brought together law enforcement officers, Sheriff Explorers, the 200 Club, and local families for a night of fun, engagement, and public safety awareness. Special guests Marshall and Chase from Paw Patrol added excitement, making it a memorable experience for all!
The Florham Park Police Department participated in Law Enforcement Night, engaging with the community and supporting public safety awareness. Officers interacted with families, answered questions, and highlighted the importance of law enforcement in keeping the community safe. The event brought together law enforcement agencies, Sheriff Explorers, and local organizations, creating a fun and educational experience for all.




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