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Fire Erupts in Abandoned Madison Home; Investigation Underway

By
Frank Cahill
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MADISON — Emergency crews responded early Sunday morning to a structure fire in an abandoned two-story home located within the Drew Forest Preserve, prompting a second-alarm response and an ongoing investigation.

At approximately 6:00 a.m., Madison Police received a report of a possible brush fire off Loantaka Way. Upon arrival, Madison Fire Department personnel discovered the flames were coming from an abandoned structure hidden deep within the forest.

Firefighters quickly escalated the situation to a second alarm, bringing in additional support to combat the blaze and protect the nearby Zuck Arboretum.

Crews worked for nearly three hours to extinguish the fire and monitor for hotspots to prevent further spread into the surrounding wooded area.

“The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Madison Fire Department, Madison Police Department, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office,” officials said in a joint statement.

Madison Fire Chief Wickman commended the swift and united response.

“I’m grateful for the quick response and coordinated efforts of all the agencies that assisted this morning,” said Chief Wickman. “Thanks to their hard work and teamwork, the fire was contained quickly, preventing further damage to the surrounding forest.”

The Borough of Madison expressed appreciation to mutual aid partners from Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, East Hanover, Florham Park, Morris Township, Morristown, and the New Jersey Forest Fire Service for their assistance on scene and for covering the firehouse during the operation.

Rose House Named Beneficiary of 5th Annual Tri-State CRE Charity Golf Classic

By
Frank Cahill
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Josh Simon, Vice President at EBI Consulting; Tom Mitchell, CEO of Rose House; and George Gnad, President of Lenders Capital Realty Services

PARSIPPANY — Rose House, a Parsippany-based nonprofit dedicated to creating forever homes for individuals with special needs, was recently named a beneficiary of the 5th Annual Tri-State CRE Charity Golf Classic. The event, held at Knoll Country Club West in Parsippany, brought together 120 golfers and raised $2,500 in support of the organization’s mission.

The annual golf outing is organized by a team of commercial real estate (CRE) professionals committed to giving back to the community. In addition to Rose House, proceeds from this year’s event also supported Winslow Therapeutic Center, which co-organized the tournament, and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Research at Weill Cornell Medicine.

At Rose House’s Hanover Community Residence in Cedar Knolls, members of the real estate community gathered to celebrate the donation. Pictured (back row, left to right) are Josh Simon, Vice President at EBI Consulting; Tom Mitchell, CEO of Rose House; and George Gnad, President of Lenders Capital Realty Services. They are joined by Rose House residents Rachel and Billy.

Rose House is a nonprofit organization that provides customized, self-directed programs to individuals with special needs across Morris County. With a mission to build inclusive communities and provide loving homes, Rose House continues to make dreams a reality. For more information, visit www.therosehouse.org.

Michael Berger Receives Degree at Miami University Spring Commencement

By
Frank Cahill
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BOONTON – Michael Berger of Boonton was among the students awarded degrees during Miami University’s Spring Commencement held in 2025.

Established in 1809, Miami University is consistently ranked among the top 50 national public universities by U.S. News & World Report for providing students with an Ivy League-quality education at a public school price.

Located in the quintessential college town of Oxford, Ohio—with regional campuses in Hamilton and Middletown, a learning center in West Chester, and a European study center in Luxembourg—Miami serves more than 22,600 undergraduates across more than 100 areas of study, and more than 2,200 graduate students through 78 master’s and doctoral degree programs. At this comprehensive research university, students engage and conduct research with premiere teacher-scholars.

Miami contributes $2.3 billion annually to Ohio’s economy through innovative partnerships and job creation. The university is also home to 19 NCAA Division I varsity sports teams, serving more than 500 student-athletes. For more information, visit MiamiOH.edu.

Finn Collier Awarded Degree from Miami University

By
Frank Cahill
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Finn Collier, a 2021 graduate of Saint Peter's Prep where he played varsity soccer, recently earned his degree from Miami University during the Spring 2025 commencement ceremony.

MADISON — Finn Collier was among nearly 4,800 students from Miami University who received degrees during the spring commencement held on May 17, 2025. A proud alumnus of Saint Peter’s Prep, Finn graduated from the Jersey City-based high school in 2021 before continuing his academic journey at Miami University.

Collier graduated with a B.S. in Business degree, majoring in Supply Chain & Operations Mgmt.

The most recent complete candidates for graduation lists are always available for downloading at commencement, dean’s and president’s lists.

Nationally recognized as one of the most outstanding undergraduate institutions, Miami University is a public university located in Oxford, Ohio. With a student body of over 22,000, Miami effectively combines a wide range of strong academic programs with faculty who love to teach and the personal attention ordinarily found only at much smaller institutions.

Established in 1809, Miami University is consistently ranked among the top 50 national public universities by the U.S. News & World Report for providing students with an Ivy League-quality education at a public school price.

Located in quintessential college town Oxford, Ohio-with regional campuses in Hamilton and Middletown, a learning center in West Chester, and a European study center in Luxembourg-Miami serves more than 22,600 undergraduates across more than 100 areas of study, and more than 2,200 graduate students through 78 master’s and doctoral degree programs.

At this comprehensive research university, students engage and conduct research with premiere teacher-scholars. Miami adds $2.3 billion each year to Ohio’s economy through innovative partnerships and job creation. Miami is an NCAA Division I school, serving more than 500 student-athletes across 19 varsity sports. For more information, visit MiamiOH.edu.

Video: Township of Hanover Committee Meeting – July 10, 2025

By
Frank Cahill
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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 – July 10, 2025

HANOVER — The Township Committee of the Township of Hanover met on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. for an in-person, open public conference and closed executive legal and personnel meeting in Conference Room “A” at the Township Municipal Building located at 1000 Route 10W in Whippany. Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting. 

  • Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Mayor
  • Michael A. Mihalko, Deputy Mayor
  • Brian J. Cahill, Committeeman
  • John L. Ferramosca, Committeeman
  • Ronald F. Francioli, Committeeman

Jefferson Township Loses $50,000 in Tax Appeals

By
Frank Cahill
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This gas station and convenience store, located at 650 Route 15 South in Jefferson, was among the properties granted a successful 2025 tax appeal, resulting in a tax cancellation of $15,159.94—the largest reduction approved in Jefferson Township’s latest resolution.

JEFFERSON — The Jefferson Township Council has approved a resolution authorizing the cancellation of more than $50,000 in property taxes due to successful 2025 County Tax Appeals.

During the council meeting, Resolution #25-243 was passed as part of the consent agenda. This resolution, titled “Resolution Authorizing the Reduction of Taxes Due to Successful County Tax Appeals,” reflects adjustments granted by the State of New Jersey and the Morris County Board of Taxation.

The Tax Collector of Jefferson Township certified that the following reductions are required. Each cancellation includes the block, lot, property location, and amount reduced:

BlockLotProperty LocationTax Cancellation
42239 S Lakeside Ave$1,558.21
42341 S Lakeside Ave$1,524.06
113.0112 Alps Ln$2,768.77
1422125 Benedict Dr$3,578.91
14315 E Shore Rd$620.80
151206 Orchard Rd$2,061.06
22222 Martin View Rd$2,346.62
23029.1817 Boca Vista Dr$2,638.40
23417.0484 Espanong Rd$620.80
24916650 Rt 15 S$15,159.94
260.092832 Ravine Rd$2,833.95
28611731 Berkshire Valley Rd$620.80
3001814 W Lakeview Trl$3,178.50
3001122 W Lakeview Trl$3,104.00
30088 W Shawnee Trl$1,024.32
3011415 Shenandoah Cres$2,328.00
30277 Harbargin Rd$2,079.68
31514 Newark Trl$802.38
418218 Glenwood Dr$306.18
4481.208317 Pine Hollow Ct$1,317.99
457355 Stoneybrook Ln$1,846.88
457364 Stoneybrook Ln$1,842.00
45838Berkshire Valley Rd$620.80
45837Berkshire Valley Rd$620.80
557940 Grandview Ave$1,969.89

These cancellations are the result of appeals successfully filed by property owners who demonstrated that their tax assessments were too high.

Dover Resident Among Georgia Tech Spring 2025 Graduates

By
Frank Cahill
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DOVER — John Nieves of Dover, was among the 6,660 undergraduate and graduate students who earned degrees during the Georgia Institute of Technology’s 268th Commencement ceremonies, held May 1–3, 2025.

The ceremonies took place at McCamish Pavilion for Ph.D. and bachelor’s recipients and at Bobby Dodd Stadium for master’s graduates.

Congratulations to John Nieves on this outstanding academic achievement!

Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional Holds First General Meeting

By
Frank Cahill
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Charter members of the newly-formed Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional gather for their first general meeting, united in their mission to serve the children of Hanover Township, East Hanover, and Florham Park.

HANOVER — The newly-formed Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional held its first general meeting, marking an exciting milestone in its mission to serve the local community. This enthusiastic gathering reflected the club’s dedication to building a better future for children and families in Hanover Township, East Hanover, and Florham Park.

During the meeting, members unanimously passed two key resolutions to establish official banking relationships, laying the foundation for future service and financial stewardship.

Club President Andrew Lanskey expressed pride in the club’s early momentum. “We’re building something meaningful here,” he said. “The passion and dedication shown by our members from day one demonstrates our commitment to living the Kiwanis mission and making a difference in our communities.”

Planning is already underway for the club’s upcoming Charter Celebration, which will commemorate the club’s official formation and recognize the community leaders and supporters who helped bring the vision to life.

NJ District Kiwanis International Governor-Elect Frank Cahill praised the new club’s formation, stating, “The formation of the Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional is a shining example of what happens when community leaders come together with a shared purpose. I’m excited to see the incredible impact this club will have as it begins its journey of serving the children of Hanover Township, East Hanover, and Florham Park.”

In the spirit of action, the club also outlined meaningful service projects scheduled for September, emphasizing their commitment to immediate community engagement and long-term impact.

Lt. Governor Nicolas Limanov, Division 7, added, “It’s inspiring to witness the birth of a new Kiwanis club. Hanover Regional is off to a strong start, and I look forward to supporting their efforts as they bring new energy and service to Division 7.”

A special guest, young Lincoln, attended the meeting — a future K-Kid in the making — symbolizing the club’s focus on youth and the next generation of leaders.

The Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional is proudly aligned with the global Kiwanis mission: to improve the world one child and one community at a time. Through service, leadership, and fellowship, members aim to create opportunities for children to thrive — locally and beyond.

With a passionate team and a clear sense of purpose, the Kiwanis Club of Hanover Regional is already making a difference.

To learn how you can join our mission of serving the children of the world, contact Club President Andrew Lanskey at (973) 796-7692 and become a part of the Kiwanis family.

Suspicious Bag at East Hanover Car Wash Found to Contain Animal Remains

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Members of the Morris County Sheriff’s Crime Scene Investigation Unit examine the suspicious bag at The Finish Line Car Wash in East Hanover

EAST HANOVER — On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at approximately 9:33 a.m., East Hanover Police responded to a report of a suspicious garbage bag discovered in a trash can at The Finish Line Car Wash, located at 84 Route 10.

The Morris County Sheriff’s Department responds to assist East Hanover Police with the investigation of a suspicious bag.

An investigation was immediately launched in coordination with the Morris County Sheriff’s Department and the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office. Upon examination, the contents of the bag were confirmed to be animal organs. Authorities confirmed that no human remains were found.

The investigation into the origin of the remains is ongoing.

The East Hanover Police Department would like to thank the Morris County Sheriff’s Department, the Medical Examiner’s Office, and their Crime Scene Investigators for their swift response and assistance in determining the nature of the contents.

Sheriff’s Department investigators confirm the bag contained animal remains, not human, following a thorough examination.

Knights of Columbus Council 3495 Celebrates Annual Family Life Night with Awards and Generous Donations

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS PLAINS — The Knights of Columbus Bishop McLaughlin Council 3495 hosted its annual Family Life Night on Tuesday, July 15, at the Red Oaks School. The event celebrated the spirit of service and community, highlighting the Council’s charitable efforts and honoring outstanding contributions to both parish and community.

The evening began with an opening prayer of thankfulness offered by Father Luke Wnuk, Pastor of Saint Virgil’s Parish. Grand Knight Gary Richenaker then led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Grand Knight Richenaker expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Brother Knights for their unwavering dedication throughout the year. He announced that the Council had donated over $30,000 in support of individuals and organizations serving Saint Virgil’s Parish and the greater community.

Brother Knights Keith Chesnut and John Boudreau were recognized for their assistance in setting up and serving dinner and refreshments.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards in various categories, with honorees recognized by Grand Knight Richenaker, District Deputy Mike Spieker, Father Luke Wnuk, and Brother Knights John Boudreau and Jim Cannestro. Among the many awards presented:

  • Paterson Federation High School Scholarship ($8,000): Kaitlin Shenloogian
  • George Marinaro Award for Highest Academic Achievement: Birannea Memory and Sofia Viola
  • St. Virgil’s Appalachian Outreach and Youth Ministry: Nina Rangel and Keith Chesnut
  • Saint Virgil’s Faith in Formation Award: Marcy Funk
  • Sir Knight James McErlane Memorial Award: Bernadette Ponticelli Szoke
  • Catechist of the Year: Rachel Sambrowski
  • Family of the Year: The Paviar Family
  • Police and Firefighter Shield Awards: Patrolman Nyquan Shaw and Firefighter Michael Zucker
  • Thaddeus Kosakowski Memorial EMS Award: Daniel Cantirino
  • Paterson Federation “Keep Christ in Christmas” Billboard Award: PGK Mike Vaclaviecek
  • Special Parent Organization Award: Steven Coutts, Director and Founder
  • Morris Minute Men: Lee Bender
  • Several Sources Shelter: Karen Carbonello

Campaign for People with Intellectual Disabilities Donations were presented to the following organizations and representatives:

  • ARC of Morris County – Laura Jennings
  • Employment Horizons – Kaitlin Krumeich
  • Camp Fatima – Regina Smith and Kira Cruz
  • Camp Marcella – Jose Nieto
  • DPD Calabrese House – Hazel Yaptangeo and Michael Calabrese

Additional charitable contributions were made to:

  • Homeless Solutions – Julie Hess
  • LIFENET – Omar & Jenny Fernandez
  • Walking with Moms in Need – Executive Director Joanna Miller
  • Birth Haven – Tina Magarino
  • JBWS (formerly New Jersey Battered Women’s Services) – Jayne Blake
  • Interfaith Food Pantry of Morris County – Director Carolyn Lake
  • Morristown Meals on Wheels – Jami Blake
  • Operation Chillout – Jane Flynn
  • Remember Me Inc. – Nina Amello
  • Operation Jersey Care

The final presentation was a donation to support Saint Virgil’s Parishioners In Need, accepted by Father Luke Wnuk.

The Council was also honored to receive eight Knights of Columbus State Awards, including the prestigious Star Council Award, presented by District Deputy Mike Spieker to Grand Knight Gary Richenaker.

The evening concluded with the presentation of the Knight of the Year Award to Brother Knight Mike Fichter, who humbly accepted the honor on behalf of all Brother Knights of Council 3495.

All recipients expressed sincere gratitude to Bishop McLaughlin Council 3495 for their generous contributions and unwavering support. The night ended in prayer, led by Father Luke Wnuk, marking a heartfelt conclusion to an evening of faith, fellowship, and community service.

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