Jack Ciattarelli, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Christine Myers, and Dover Council candidate Maria Rosario at Rosario’s fundraising event in Dover.
DOVER — Maria Rosario, candidate for Dover Town Council in Ward 3, continues to gain broad support as she campaigns to represent her community. At her recent fundraising event held on Sunday, August 30, at Tierras y Sabores, Rosario was joined by a diverse group of leaders and community members who came out to show their encouragement.
Among those in attendance were New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, Assemblyman Christian Barranco, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Mayor James Dodd, Morris County Commissioner Doug Cabana and Christine Myer, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella.
Rosario also received support from former Dover Mayor Carolyn Blackman, former 4th Ward Council candidate Dennis Touhey, gay rights activist Mari Chacón, former Boonton Councilman Joe Bock, and many local residents who believe in her vision for Ward 3.
The afternoon served as both a fundraiser and an opportunity for the community to hear directly from Ciattarelli, who emphasized lowering property taxes, reforming the school funding formula, improving public safety, and reducing utility costs. He also engaged residents in conversation on immigration, housing, and small business issues.
Rosario thanked her supporters for standing with her and pledged to be a strong, independent voice for Ward 3.
JEFFERSON — The Jefferson Township Community Chorus is inviting singers of all ages and experience levels to join them as they prepare for their upcoming holiday concert, “A Family Christmas.”
Rehearsals for the festive program will begin on Tuesday, September 9, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Jefferson Township High School chorus room. The community chorus is known for bringing neighbors together through music, and this year’s holiday performance promises to celebrate the joy and tradition of the season.
Singers are encouraged to reach out on social media or connect with a current chorus member to be added to the group’s email list for rehearsal music and updates.
The Jefferson Township Community Chorus has long been a welcoming space for residents to share their voices, make new friendships, and spread holiday cheer. With “A Family Christmas” on the horizon, the group is excited to welcome new participants and create a memorable concert for the community.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Jefferson Township Council Meeting to be held September 3. This meeting is called pursuant to the provisions of the Open Public Meetings Law. This meeting of September 3, 2025 was included in a list of meetings notice sent to the official newspapers of the Township, the Daily Record and the Star Ledger, on January 8, 2025 and was posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building on January 8, 2025 and has remained continuously posted as the required notices under the Statute. In addition, a copy of this notice is and has been available to the public and is on file in the office of the Municipal Clerk.
Madison High School Key Club members assist Kiwanis volunteers in serving pretzels, ice cream, and refreshments to students during the Chatham Library’s Annual Young Readers Picnic.
CHATHAM — The Chatham Library’s Annual Young Readers Picnic returned on Thursday, August 14, drawing hundreds of children, teens, and families for an afternoon of celebration, treats, and community spirit. Held each summer as the culmination of the library’s Summer Reading Club, this year’s picnic welcomed more than 300 students who participated in the reading program, along with their families and neighbors.
Kiwanis members wrapped the Philly pretzels with care, lending their hands and hearts to support the event while sharing the true spirit of community service.
This year’s event was made possible with the help of many members from the Kiwanis Club of the Chathams and Madison, who volunteered their time and energy. Those in attendance included Marge Ahrens, Gary Arnesen, Pat Arnesen, Karen Brodsky, Frank Cahill, Neil Cooperman, Stephanie Cooperman, Mary Beth Gabel, Art Harper, Judy Harper, Mary Anne Maloney, Justin Montanaro, Joe Murphy, David Mutchler, Shirley Mutchler, Karen Shippey, and Stu Shippey.
Five members of the Madison High School Key Club teamed up with Kiwanis volunteers to hand out Philly Pretzel Factory pretzels, ice cream, sherbets, and water during the Chatham Library’s Annual Young Readers Picnic.
Joining them were five members of the Madison High School Key Club, who assisted the Kiwanians in handing out soft Philly Pretzel Factory pretzels, small water bottles, ice cream cups, and colorful sherbets—each neatly wrapped or served with paper napkins. The Kiwanis Club also generously purchased the Philly Pretzels, ice cream, and water for the event, adding a true taste of Philadelphia tradition to the afternoon.
The preparation began early, as Stu and Karen Shippey, along with David Mutchler, set up the tent and organized the serving table. Mutchler delivered four large boxes of giant soft pretzels, which were carefully separated, wrapped, and placed on trays. Gary and Pat Arnesen transported more than 200 assorted ice cream cups and sorbets, which, along with chilled water bottles, were kept in coolers packed with ice to beat the summer heat.
The turnout reflected the popularity of the program, with 309 children, teens, and adults attending the picnic. Chatham Library Director Karen Brodsky expressed her gratitude to the Kiwanis volunteers, writing, “It was so nice to see so many members of the Kiwanis Club at the picnic. An official thanks will come from Youth Services Head Jaime Sabonye in the near future.” Brodsky also shared the impressive results of the library’s summer reading program: 537 kids collectively read 10,097 books this summer.
Frank Cahill, Governor-Elect of the NJ District Kiwanis International, praised the event’s impact on the community: “There’s no better way to encourage young readers than by gathering together—pretzel in hand—to celebrate their achievements. Events like this remind us that when Kiwanis partners with our schools and libraries, we help build not only better readers but stronger communities.”
Kiwanis Club of Chatham and Madison President Stephanie Cooperman said, “I was absolutely delighted to see how warmly the children and their parents embraced this year’s Picnic For Young Readers. The weather could not have been better, and the pretzels, water, ice creams, and sherbets were enjoyed by all. What made the day so special was not only the excitement of the kids, but also the tremendous effort of the library staff in preparing everything in advance. It was a wonderful celebration of reading, community, and summer fun. Thank you to everyone who helped make it possible—I look forward to seeing you all again in August 2026!”
The Chatham Library’s Young Readers Picnic continues to be a highlight of the summer, bringing together volunteers, students, and families to celebrate both community and the love of reading.
MORRIS COUNTY — Macie and Mackley are just 8 months old—still babies, full of sweetness, innocence, and boundless love. But instead of knowing the joy of a warm bed, gentle hands, and a family’s embrace, their young lives began in heartbreak. Born in the South, they were cruelly dumped at a shelter, left unwanted and unseen.
Now their fate hangs in the balance. The shelter where they wait is a high-kill facility, and every day could be their last. These two siblings—playful, wiggly, and full of life—are on borrowed time. They have never truly experienced the world, never run free in a yard of their own, never curled up at night knowing they are safe.
Macie and Mackley adore everyone they meet. Their tails wag with hope, their eyes shine with trust, and they are desperate for the chance to love a family as deeply as only dogs can. We dream of seeing them adopted together, but they are also available individually—anything to save their precious lives.
They are healthy, up to date on vaccinations, and ready for the journey north if it means finding the forever home that will finally give them the life they deserve. With each passing day, the clock ticks louder. They need us.
Please—help us save Macie and Mackley before it’s too late.
To adopt, contact Heather Darling at [email protected], visit Facebook, or connect on Instagram @realheatherdarling.
Kids at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA dive into fall with energy, creativity, and fun during youth programs open to both members and non-members.
MORRIS COUNTY — Fall is around the corner, and the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is ready to kick off a season full of energy, creativity, and community with the launch of Fall Registration for youth programs. Whether your child is eager to move, build, create, or explore, the Y has something for every age and interest—and best of all, programs are open to both members and non-members!
Here’s a sample of what is happening this fall:
Dance Academy: From beginner ballet to acro dance, we offer a complete range of dance classes for all skill levels. Whether your child is twirling for the first time or ready to take the stage, we’ve got the perfect class!
Dodgeball, Jr. & Sr. Parkour, and Homeschool Gym: Keep kids active and engaged with high-energy favorites designed to build physical strength, teamwork, and fun.
Science & Arts Lab: Dive into tech and creativity with classes like Scratch Coding, Tinkercad, App Creation, and Design Workshops. Whether your child is a budding engineer or artist, this is the place to spark new passions.
Pokémon Card Program: Got a Pokémon fan at home? This new offering gives kids a space to trade, play, and learn strategy in a welcoming environment.
Swim, Gym & Fun: For toddlers and preschoolers, our beloved prep-for-preschool program builds skills through active play and social interaction. Choose from 1- or 2-day options.
Kids Night Out: Parents, we’ve got you covered! Enjoy an evening to yourself while your kids have a blast in a safe, supervised setting at the Y.
Birthday Parties: Now Better Than Ever! We’ve revamped our birthday party packages to make celebrating easier than ever. With exciting themes and convenient add-ons like pizza and cake, the Y is your one-stop party place!
From sports and STEM to social clubs and skill-building, there’s something for everyone this season. Don’t wait—spots fill quickly!
About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA Rooted in community, the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA offers inclusive programs that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our doors are open to all, and we work to ensure every child and family has the opportunity to thrive—regardless of membership status.
Morris County holds its sixth annual Overdose Awareness Day ceremony on August 28, at One Medical Drive in Parsippany. Families who lost loved ones to substance use or fentanyl poisoning were recognized.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County officials, families of overdose victims and service providers recognized the 24th International Overdose Awareness Day by gathering today on the lawn of the Morris County Central Avenue Complex, where they remembered lost lives and raised awareness of the worldwide opioid crisis.
The event, organized by the county Division of Community & Behavioral Health Services, marked the sixth consecutive year Morris County has observed Overdose Awareness Day, which is recognized annually on August 31. The ceremony also recognized Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Day, observed every July 14, and featured personal reflections from family members who have lost loved ones to overdose as well as individuals who shared their journeys of sobriety and recovery.
“Morris County has seen a steady decline in overdose tragedies since 2017, but it is important to stay vigilant, because behind every statistic is a son, a daughter, a friend or a loved one — and the fight to protect people from this crisis is never over,” said Commissioner Christine Myers. “The county has invested $820,000 in opioid settlement funds over the past two years to support prevention, Narcan training and recovery services. These efforts are saving lives.”
State Sen. Anthony Bucco, who sponsored legislation designating August 31 as Overdose Awareness Day in New Jersey in 2020, delivered opening remarks.
“Addiction does not have to end in tragedy. Help and hope are always possible,” said Sen. Bucco. “Morris County immediately jumped in after the legislation was passed, starting programs and bringing us back year after year to remember — and to work for a day when substance abuse is a thing of the past.”
Nationally, overdose deaths have declined in recent years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2024, 80,391 lives were lost to overdose, down 27 percent from 110,037 in 2023.
“Morris County has made progress, but human lives are precious and all are worth rescuing. Our work here is a life-saving mission, and we must continue to see a reduction in these tremendous losses,” said Sheriff James Gannon. “I am so proud of all our efforts, from Hope One to our many partnerships, but today I especially want to recognize Cpl. Erica Valvano, the ‘Mother of Hope One.’ Erica has saved many of the lives included in that progress. This is timely and coincidental today, as Erica works her last day here in Morris County — I want to thank her for the direct and incredible impact she has made!”
Carol Egan, Morris County Human Services Director Kasey Errico, Commissioner Christine Myers and Sen. Anthony Bucco.
Morris County Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron Tomasini also spoke at the event, highlighting law enforcement’s ongoing efforts to address the opioid crisis. The county’s response is supported by partnerships among county departments, law enforcement agencies and more than 75 service providers. Key initiatives include the Sheriff’s Office Re-Entry Program, Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI), Community Connections, the Hope One mobile unit, Hope Hub, Navigating Hope (a mobile outreach program run by the Morris County Department of Human Services and Family Promise of Morris County), the Mental Health Association of Morris County and the county’s Overdose Fatality Review Team.
Narcan, an over-the-counter drug that reverses opioid overdoses, has also played a critical role in saving lives. Since 2017, the Hope One team has distributed nearly 12,000 Narcan kits, with 185 reported uses to save or attempt to save lives. The program has made more than 1,800 referrals to recovery and support services, and its model has been replicated in ten other counties.
Law enforcement officials continue to face challenges from synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and xylazine. Fentanyl, which is increasingly mixed with xylazine — an animal tranquilizer resistant to Narcan — has become dominant in the illicit drug market.
“In New jersey, the crisis keeps evolving. Pills became heroin, heroin became fentanyl, and now we see fentanyl mixed with other poisons,” said Brad Seabury, Morris County Chief Assistant Prosecutor. “Just recently, about three-quarters of opioids seized here in Morris County contained xylazine.”
Seabury noted that Narcan has played a critical role in saving lives. Law enforcement officers reversed 162 overdoses in 2022, 144 in 2023, 96 in 2024 and 39 so far this year.
“The trend is encouraging,” he said. “It means lives are being saved, and fewer emergency calls are ending in tragedy.”
The ceremony concluded with a remembrance led by Carol Egan, founder of the Global Recovery Movement, who has been a leader in prevention efforts for more than three decades. An opening prayer was offered by Pastor Chuck Corradino of Butler Church of the Nazarene, and Rabbi Moshe Rudin of Adath Shalom in Parsippany closed the ceremony.
The annual ceremony serves as a solemn reminder of the ongoing struggle against addiction and the need for continued compassion, action and community support.
Dover officials revealed that municipal phone lines have been secretly recorded without notice, raising legal and ethical concerns. Town Administrator and Chief Financial Officer Dr. Ed Ramirez, Mayor Dodd, and Municipal Attorney Ramon Rivera confirmed the discovery, announcing state and county investigations into possible violations of New Jersey’s wiretapping laws.
DOVER — The Town of Dover is facing serious questions after officials confirmed municipal phone lines were being secretly recorded and stored without public knowledge. Mayor James Dodd announced that state and county investigators have been notified, calling the practice a potential violation of New Jersey’s wiretapping laws and a breach of public trust.
Mayor James P. Dodd said, “Good afternoon, I’m here today with our Town Administrator and Chief Financial Officer Dr. Ed Ramirez and also with our Municipal Attorney Ramon Rivera. The Town of Dover has recently become aware through an open public records request of a deeply concerning issue involving the recording of telephone calls made to and from town phone lines. Yesterday the Dover Police Department confirmed they are recording and storing all telephone conversations not only within Town Hall, but also across other municipal offices outside of Town Hall.
As Mayor, I was not aware of this until yesterday. This revelation is alarming as these recordings appear to violate the New Jersey Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance Control Act, NJSA 2A:156A-1, which is a law that regulates how and when an electronic interception of communications may be conducted by the government, including law enforcement. The lack of notice by the Dover Police Department to Town employees and residents that the phone lines were being recorded raises serious legal and ethical concerns as well as questions of accountability.
Immediately upon confirmation of this practice, our Business Administrator and Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Ed Ramirez, notified both the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office requesting a full and thorough investigation. These agencies have been formally alerted and we have requested that investigations be immediately commenced and actions be taken. Specifically, we would like to know how this system was implemented, who authorized it, and whether it violates state and federal law.
This administration is determined to restore the public trust by confronting the problem directly, cooperating fully with the investigating authorities, and implementing reforms to ensure it cannot happen again. While these investigations are underway, residents should be aware that calls placed to town phone numbers may be recorded by the existing system. We are taking steps to suspend the recordings and an entire review of the system will be conducted, but until that process is complete, the possibility of recordings remains.
We want to be upfront and forthcoming with our residents so that everyone is aware when calling our municipal offices. As Mayor, I am committed to ensuring that Dover operates with full transparency and accountability. The people of Dover deserve honesty and openness and I will keep the community informed every step of the way.
This matter is being taken with the utmost seriousness and for those responsible, we expect them to be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Should you have any questions pertaining to this matter, please contact 973-366-2200. Thank you.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, in collaboration with Juventus Academy New Jersey, invites local families to take part in Juventus Open Days—a series of exciting, soccer-themed community events for children ages 3–10.
These free, public events offer families a great way to get active, make new connections, and experience the joy of soccer—regardless of skill level.
Each Juventus Open Day features:
Interactive soccer games and skill challenges
Meet-and-greets with Juventus Academy coaches and staff
YMCA giveaways
Insights into youth development and community wellness
Event Schedule
Montville / Pine Brook Saturday, September 20 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Woodmont Elementary School, 39 Woodmont Road, Pine Brook, NJ 07058 Rain Date: Saturday, September 27
Parsippany-Troy Hills Sunday, November 2 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Central Park of Morris County – Field #1, 1 Governor Chris Christie Drive, Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ 07950 Rain or Shine
Bring your friends and join us for a fun-filled day of play, teamwork, and youth empowerment. Whether your child is new to soccer or already loves the game, there’s something for everyone.
MADISON — Unity Bank will officially open its new Madison branch on Tuesday, September 2,, and is inviting the community to join in two celebratory grand opening events later this month.
The branch, located at 265 Main Street, will host festivities on Saturday, September 13 and Saturday, September 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Both family-friendly events will include:
Free donuts, hot chocolate, and hot cider from the Glazed & Confused food truck
Free children’s face and hand painting by Face Art by Jan
In addition, attendees will have the chance to enter drawings for a $1,000 VISA gift card and a special Unity Bank Hot Air Balloon Ride gift certificate.
Unity Bank will also offer exclusive promotions for new account openings throughout September, giving residents a timely opportunity to explore the bank’s financial services.
Bank officials say the new Madison branch underscores Unity’s ongoing commitment to expanding access and delivering personalized financial services to communities across New Jersey.
For more information on the Madison branch or the grand opening events, visit Unity Bank’s website or stop by the new location at 265 Main Street after its September 2 opening.
