Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
MORRIS COUNTY — In a community-centered effort to support those who give so much of themselves, the West Morris Area YMCA will host a special event, “Caring for the Caregiver,” on Wednesday, November 13, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This free presentation, led by caregiver resource expert Robin Ennis, is aimed at offering valuable resources, practical tips, and a sense of community for those providing essential care to family members, friends, or neighbors in need.
Held at the YMCA on Dover Chester Road in Randolph, the event invites anyone who finds themselves in the role of a caregiver—whether they’re helping an aging parent, supporting a loved one with disabilities, or simply running errands for a friend in need. The presentation will touch on the emotional, physical, and logistical challenges caregivers face daily, guiding on managing responsibilities while also caring for their well-being.
Ennis, a recognized Caregiver Resource & Information Specialist, will offer insights into navigating the demands of caregiving. Attendees will learn strategies for managing stress, balancing personal life with caregiving duties, and connecting with local resources to lighten their load. With so many community members quietly dedicating their lives to helping others, the event serves as a heartfelt reminder that caregivers, too, need support.
For those who may have difficulty finding time to attend, the YMCA has made registration simple by clicking here. Caregivers are encouraged to RSVP and reserve their spot as a way to take just one hour for themselves—a small but meaningful step in their journey.
The “Caring for the Caregiver” event is a chance for the community to come together, acknowledge the tireless work of caregivers, and ensure they feel as supported as the loved ones they care for.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
DOVER — On Sunday evening, October 6, around 9:02 p.m., Dover Police Officers responded to Orchard Street following a report of a collision involving a parked vehicle. A concerned resident had called in, alerting dispatch to a black SUV that struck an unoccupied car and appeared to be attempting to flee the scene.
When Dover Police Officers Michael Cannon and Rubens Moreau arrived, they encountered a black Ford Explorer, severely damaged on the passenger side, and a black Nissan Rogue, which had been pushed up onto the sidewalk by the force of the impact. Inside the Explorer, officers found Wesley Phelan, still seated and attempting to maneuver the damaged vehicle.
As Phelan exited the SUV, officers noticed signs that suggested impairment. He swayed as he stood and struggled to keep his balance, with visibly watery, bloodshot eyes. Officer Cannon also detected a strong odor of alcohol as they spoke, while Phelan’s speech was notably slow, slurred, and halting. When asked about his whereabouts before the crash, Phelan admitted to having spent the evening at the local American Legion post, where he had consumed five beers.
After a brief discussion, the officers requested that Phelan participate in field sobriety tests, which he declined. Based on his behavior and statements, Officer Cannon placed Phelan under arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence. Following protocol, Phelan was handcuffed, checked for weapons, and transported to Rockaway Borough Police Department to undergo a breathalyzer test. However, upon arrival, he refused to provide a breath sample.
Wesley Phelan received the following summonses:
39:4-50 – Operating Under the Influence of Liquor or Drugs
39:4-50.2 – Refusal to Submit to a Breath Test
39:4-97 – Careless Driving
Once processed, Phelan was released into the custody of his daughter. A court date was set for October 21, where Phelan would face the legal consequences of the night’s events.
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.
Support for New Moms: Dover Hosts Community Baby Shower with Local Organizations
DOVER — The Town of Dover is proud to support the West Morris Area YMCA, the NJ Immunization Network (NJIN), and the Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs in hosting a Community Baby Shower on Sunday, November 10th from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Casa Puerto Rico in Dover!
This free event is open to all pregnant women, families with young infants, and mothers-to-be in our community. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to connect with resources, support, and other families.
RSVP by October 31 to reserve your spot!
Casa Puerto Rico is located at 50 West Blackwell Street in Dover. It’s a well-known community center in the area, often used for cultural events and gatherings.
Candidates Justin Strickland, Deborah Smith, Stephen Shaw, Jonathan Sackett, William "Bud" Ravitz, and John Krickus participated in the Morris County Board of Commissioners debate hosted on Tuesday, October 29, by the League of Women Voters of the Morris Area, the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, and the Daily Record.
MORRIS COUNTY — The League of Women Voters of the Morris Area, in partnership with the Morris County Chamber of Commerce and the Daily Record, hosted a debate for candidates running for the Morris County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday, October 29.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris Plains resident Haim Braverman has been charged with making a death threat against a political commentator, United States Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Braverman faces a complaint charging him with one count of transmitting a threat across interstate and international boundaries. Braverman made his initial court appearance on October 29, 2024, before United States Magistrate Judge James B. Clark III in federal court in Newark and was ordered to remain in custody.
Court documents and statements detail that on September 10, Braverman posted a video on a social media platform in which he issued multiple threats toward a political commentator who had recently spoken about a well-known, now-deceased rabbi. In the video, Braverman threatened violence with a bat, saying: “You’ll get what’s coming to you… I’ve never met someone… if I could kill you right now, I would not even… I’ll give you the steel bat. I wouldn’t even stop. I’d kill you. Dead… I’m threatening a death sentence against [the commentator].” Braverman’s post also included a comment stating, “[the commentator] needs to be killed.” In addition, Braverman sent an audio message in a group chat on a messaging application, referencing the commentator and expressing his intent to “find her and kill her” after hearing her remarks. He added, “I will find a weapon and kill her. I am outraged.”
The offense of transmitting a threat across interstate or international lines is punishable by a maximum of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
United States Attorney Sellinger acknowledged the investigative efforts of Federal Bureau of Investigation special agents, led by Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, directed by Sheriff James Gannon.
Assistant United States Attorney Sammi Malek of the National Security Unit in Newark is handling the government’s case.
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.
Stickley Museum Reopens with Ribbon Cutting and Tribute to Michael dePierro’s 59-Year Legacy
MORRIS COUNTY — Local dignitaries and community members gathered Saturday at Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms (SMCF) in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, celebrating its 35th anniversary and grand reopening since the pandemic and a damaging storm forced it to close in 2020.
Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, a nationally recognized historic site in Parsippany, served as the backdrop for a remarkable ceremony
The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, a nationally recognized historic site in Parsippany, served as the backdrop for a remarkable ceremony, combining the excitement of a ribbon-cutting event with a heartfelt tribute to Michael dePierro, a local legend whose 59 years of public service have left a lasting mark on the community.
The museum closed since the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, underwent extensive restoration after sustaining damage from Tropical Storm Isaias. The reopening also unveiled additional improvements, all part of the museum’s mission to preserve and interpret Gustav Stickley’s vision for Craftsman Farms.
The event was attended by local officials, members of the township’s Economic Development team, and community leaders, reflecting the broad impact of dePierro’s contributions to open space preservation and recreational development in Parsippany. The ceremony marked a new chapter for the Stickley Museum as it expanded its facilities, offering both locals and visitors more opportunities to explore Gustav Stickley’s legacy and the Arts and Crafts movement.
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Michael dePierro, who has been instrumental in preserving 557 acres across 11 key tracts of land in Parsippany, received several awards during the ceremony. Notable projects championed by dePierro included The Knoll Country Club (352 acres), Volunteers Park (28 acres), and Veterans Memorial Park (17 acres), among others. His advocacy for open spaces and recreational amenities, such as the Parsippany Roller Hockey Park and Cameron Dog Park, was repeatedly acknowledged during the event.
Parsippany Mayor James Barberio presented dePierro with a proclamation
Parsippany Mayor James Barberio presented dePierro with a proclamation, highlighting his decades of service to the community. “Michael dePierro’s unwavering commitment to preserving our green spaces and enhancing the quality of life in Parsippany sets an example for all of us,” Barberio said. Surrogate Heather Darling also praised dePierro’s dedication, presenting him with a county service award that honored his tireless efforts to protect and develop public spaces.
At the reopening ceremony for the Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, Surrogate Heather Darling joined in recognizing Michael dePierro’s remarkable 59-year career of public service.
Commissioners Stephen Shaw, John Krickus, and Deborah Smith presented a Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund plaque to Barbara Weiskittel, president of the SMCF Board of Trustees, and Vonda K. Givens, executive director of SMCF.
Commissioners Stephen Shaw, John Krickus, and Deborah Smith presented a Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund plaque to Barbara Weiskittel, president of the SMCF Board of Trustees, and Vonda K. Givens, executive director of SMCF.
“We are excited to see the Stickley Museum reopen after all these years. Morris County has proudly invested nearly $1.2 million over the past two decades to help preserve and restore the remarkable structures at Craftsman Farms,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Shaw. “Today, this dedication reflects our shared commitment to protecting the historical and cultural fabric of our community.”
The plaque was awarded to the SMCF Education Center (formerly known as the Administration Building), commemorating more than $350,000 in historic preservation funding Morris County put toward that structure. Today, the Education Center serves as a museum office, education space, and visitor center, bringing new life to an original 1912 Stickley-era building.
Frank Cahill, chairman of the Parsippany Economic Development Committee and founder of Parsippany Focus, representing the state legislature, Senator Joe Pennachio, and Assemblymen Brian Bergen and Jay Webber, delivered a proclamation that emphasized dePierro’s dedication to community well-being and sustainability.
Frank Cahill, chairman of the Parsippany Economic Development Committee and founder of Parsippany Focus, representing the state legislature, Senator Joe Pennachio, and Assemblymen Brian Bergen and Jay Webber, delivered a proclamation that emphasized dePierro’s dedication to community well-being and sustainability. “Your efforts have not only saved acres of land but have also shaped Parsippany into a model community for future generations,” Cahill noted.
Marie Fragomeni presented a Proclamation on behalf of Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi
Weiskittel also presented congressional certificates on behalf of U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill.
Before the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Weiskittel and Givens honored former Councilman dePierro with the Gustav Stickley Award, the museum’s highest volunteer recognition, in acknowledgment of his long-standing service to Parsippany-Troy Hills and his ongoing support for the museum.
The ribbon-cutting portion of the event was equally significant, celebrating the expansion of the Stickley Museum. The museum is not only a tribute to the Arts and Crafts movement but also a vital part of Parsippany’s cultural and historical identity, drawing visitors and enriching the local economy. Attending the ceremony were key figures from Parsippany’s Economic Development team, underscoring the museum’s role in the township’s growth strategy.
Michael dePierro, who served on the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council for 40 years following six years on the Township Board of Education, has been active in civic organizations for nearly 60 years. He credited his wife, Dee, as the motivating force behind his public service and civic involvement. In recognition of her unwavering support, Weiskittel presented Dee with a bouquet.
Nick Sota, part of Parsippany’s Economic Development Committee as well as founder of the non-profit Parsippany Cube Club, remarked on the occasion: “The Stickley Museum represents more than just a historical site—it is a beacon of cultural pride and an essential asset for our local economy. We are thrilled to witness its continued growth and the community’s strong support. People like Michael dePierro remind us that sustained development goes hand-in-hand with preserving our heritage.”
The event served as both a celebration of past achievements and a commitment to future growth. The expanded museum facilities will include enhanced exhibit spaces, educational programming, and community events that will further engage the Parsippany community.
Since 2003, the taxpayer-funded Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund has preserved more than 120 structures with nearly $50 million in grants.
Rose House residents Lisa and Stephen receive special attention from Liquid Church volunteers Vanessa Ronda and LaToya Jackson at the 25th anniversary party.
MORRIS COUNTY — Rose House, a nonprofit organization committed to creating permanent housing for adults with special needs, was selected by Liquid Church of Parsippany, as a beneficiary of its 2024 Fall Outreach initiative.
In support of this project, Liquid Church constructed a wheelchair ramp and deck at the back of a Rose House group home in Budd Lake as a secondary emergency exit.
Building materials for the wheelchair ramp and deck were funded by a generous grant from The Hyde and Watson Foundation of Warren Township.
Additionally, the church hosted a 25th-anniversary celebration for Rose House. This celebration — designed for the special needs residents of Rose House, their families, staff, board members, and esteemed supporters — featured an array of activities, including pumpkin painting, a video game truck, dancing, a magic show, face painting, and various games at Liquid Church’s Parsippany headquarters.
All guests were given Liquid Church’s royal treatment as they were welcomed into the building on a red carpet with volunteers on either side to cheer guests on. In addition, Rose House received commemorative certificates from Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-25) and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (D-11) during the event.
Tom Mitchell, CEO of Rose House, remarked, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Liquid Church and its dedicated volunteers for their remarkable support during the Fall Outreach weekend. The feedback from the anniversary party attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are immensely pleased with the beautiful, new wheelchair ramp and deck. Liquid Church’s generosity and commitment to individuals with special needs are truly commendable.”
In recognition of its outstanding support, Liquid Church will soon be awarded the “Golden Rose,” which honors local organizations and businesses that exhibit exceptional dedication to supporting Rose House and its residents with developmental disabilities.
“After touring Rose House’s Hanover Community Residence in Cedar Knolls, we knew the organization served an important service for the community,” explained Liquid Church’s Executive Pastor of Operations Dave Brooks. “It’s our privilege and passion to serve those with a wide variety of special needs, so we wanted to do something extraordinary to make Rose House’s residents feel loved and appreciated.”
Rose House, a non-profit organization headquartered in Parsippany, creates forever homes that make dreams come true for those with special needs throughout Morris County. The organization’s vision is a future inclusive community, where everyone has a loving home. It operates six locations across Morris County and is planning the construction of a seventh location in Chester Township. For more information click here.
Liquid Church is one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing Christian churches. Officially launched in 2007 by Lead Pastor Tim Lucas, the church’s vision is to “Saturate the State with the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” with seven campuses in Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, and Union Counties. Each week, about 5,000 people experience Liquid Church’s worship services in New Jersey and around the globe through Church Online. As part of its global outreach, Liquid provides clean drinking water to those in need, with hundreds of completed wells in Africa and Central America. Liquid Church’s innovative approaches to outreach and ministry have been spotlighted by NPR, CNN, and TIME magazine. For more information click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Riverdale Police Chief Charles Quant confirmed that Keith M. Gunther, 42, Wanaque, has been charged with second-degree Vehicular Homicide and third-degree Assault by Auto in connection with a two-vehicle crash that occurred in the Borough of Riverdale on October 15, 2024.
On October 15, 2024, at approximately 10:58 p.m., law enforcement responded to a motor vehicle crash on Route 23 North. The investigation would reveal that a 2021 Ford F-150 had been traveling south in the northbound lanes of travel and struck a 2005 Toyota Camry traveling north.
The front passenger of the Toyota Camry was pronounced deceased at the scene. The passenger was identified as Hamid Shabuddin, 55, of Paterson. The driver of the Toyota Camry sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the crash and was transported to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center for treatment. The driver will not be identified at this time.
The driver of the Ford F-150 was identified as Keith M. Gunther. Gunther exhibited signs of being under the influence at the scene. As a result of the criminal investigation, Gunther was charged with one count of second-degree Vehicular Homicide and one count of third-degree Assault by Auto. He has also been issued a summons for Driving While Intoxicated. Gunther is a sergeant with the East Hanover Police.
Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, Gunther was released from custody on a series of non-monetary bail conditions including Pretrial Monitoring (Level III), surrender of his driver’s license and passport, and to refrain from excessive use of alcohol. The next scheduled court appearance will be a Pre-Indictment Conference on December 9, 2024, before the Hon. Claudia Jones, J.S.C.
Members of the Riverdale Police Department, Pequannock Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit participated in this investigation.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at 973-285-6200 or the Riverdale Police Department at (973) 835-0034.
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.
Neighbors Unite to Thank Local Businesses and Officials for Tree Planting Initiative
DENVILLE — In recent years, corporate development in Parsippany has sparked some debate. However, for many years, residents of Fox Chase Drive cherished the scenic beauty of their backyards, which opened onto what they fondly referred to as the “enchanted forest.” This stretch of wooded, undeveloped land in Denville was a haven for wildlife, where animals would wander, linger, and play.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Scenic Beauty of Fox Chase Drive Before DevelopmentGazing at Concrete: How Development Changed the View for Parsippany Residents
But that came to an abrupt end a few years ago, when residents found themselves on the losing side of an approval granted by Denville for the Weiss-Aug Group to construct their metal stamping factory on the long-time forested site.
Where Deer Once Roamed, Concrete Now Stands: Parsippany’s Vanished Forest
Parsippany resident Amit Mitra said “Wild turkey, coyotes, deer, Fox cubs, and other animals often played right here,” while pointing down toward the ground.
This property sits on the border of Denville and Parsippany, with a section of the land sited in Parsippany. “The development not only destroys the beautiful, peaceful ambiance we had, and negatively impacts the values of our homes, but also impacts our safety and security,” added Mitra.
Bringing Back Green: Wall Landscaping Plants October Glory Red Maple Trees for Fox Chase Drive’s Future
During the factory’s construction, residents said they endured months of a diminished quality of life. “After the construction started, our homes were shaking. Wall hangings were knocked off walls, and the rafters on our roofs were rattling. Afraid of our safety, we complained to both Parsippany Mayor James Barberio and Denville Mayor Tom Andes. Mayor Barberio did not respond,” Mitra contended.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella was alerted about the matter during the final phase of the factory’s construction and vowed to provide any assistance possible to the impacted Parsippany residents.
The Quiet Wilderness: Fox Chase Drive’s Idyllic Backyards Before the Factory
Musella contacted local businesses Cerbo’s Greenhouse and Wall Landscaping and collaborated with them to provide impacted residents with donated trees and planting at discounted pricing, funded by Musella.
Area residents responded joyfully to this week’s tree delivery. Over 20 neighbors gathered to thank Cerbo Greenhouse, Wall Landscaping, and Councilman Musella for coming together to do something nice for the community.
Parsippany resident Snigdha Mitra’s smile beamed ear-to-ear as he noted that the tree line would restore some semblance of privacy and security in the neighborhood. While it will take many years to regrow the natural buffer that once existed, the saplings will continue to grow and, in 5-10 years, can provide ample natural protection to the manufacturing site.
Mitra publicly thanked Councilman Musella for being “the only councilman and township official to listen to our concerns and come to see the situation in person. This construction and destruction of habitat should never have been permitted. But given where we are, Councilman Musella was proactive in partnering with local businesses to resolve the problem. I wish he had been our mayor two years ago! We need more local representatives like Justin who listen and solve issues for ordinary citizens, rather than being under the thumbs and in the pockets of large developers and big businesses.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella, Tommy Wall, Casey (Kaushik) Parikh
BOONTON TOWNSHIP — Chris Ilic, 18, Vice Chairman of the New Jersey High School Republicans, took advantage of early voting and cast his first-ever ballot in the 2024 election at his local polling station in Boonton Township. This milestone marks his active participation in the political process and underscores the importance of youth involvement in elections. As a young leader, Ilic’s early vote reflects his commitment to civic engagement and sets an example for high school Republicans across the state. Ilic is a senior at Mountain Lakes High School.
Early voting for the 2024 election is underway, offering residents across Morris County convenient access to local polling stations ahead of Election Day. With early voting sites open from October 28 through November 5, Morris County officials encourage residents to take advantage of these options to avoid the Election Day rush and ensure every vote is counted.
Early voting sites are open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., except on Sundays when hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Voters can visit any early voting site within Morris County, regardless of their designated precinct, making it easier for those balancing busy schedules. Each location is equipped with secure electronic voting machines, allowing voters to select their candidates in real-time.
For Morris County voters, early voting locations include:
Central Park of Morris County: 2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains
Mount Olive Municipal Building: 204 Flanders-Drakestown Road, Budd Lake
Denville Municipal Building: 1 Saint Mary’s Place, Denville
Madison Municipal Building: 50 Kings Road, Madison
Mount Arlington Municipal Building: 18 North Glen Ave, Mount Arlington
Hanover Township: 15 North Jefferson Road, Whippany
Morristown: 220 South Street, Morristown
County Clerk Ann Grossi emphasized the ease and accessibility of early voting, particularly for voters concerned about wait times and scheduling conflicts on Election Day. “Early voting stations have been set up with the needs of our residents in mind. This is a valuable option for those who want to avoid the crowds and take their time making selections,” Grossi noted.
Residents who prefer mail-in ballots can still submit their votes by mail or at drop boxes located throughout the county, available 24/7 and regularly monitored by county officials.
With high turnout anticipated for this election, officials encourage voters to explore early voting as a way to participate efficiently. From school board candidates to statewide representatives, Morris County voters have many important decisions to make this year, and early voting provides them with the flexibility to do so on their terms.
