Billy and Rachel, residents of Rose House’s Hanover Community Residence in Cedar Knolls, New Jersey, invite the community to purchase 50-50 raffle tickets. Proceeds will help raise funding for an additional housing complex designed for people with special needs.
MORRIS COUNTY — Rose House has announced the start of its annual 50-50 raffle fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit organization’s “Forever Home Project.”
Scheduled for completion in 2027, the project will create affordable housing for 12 additional adults with special needs on a 14.7-acre property at 345 State Route 24 in Chester Township. The site was formerly home to the Glenlora Nursing Home.
“With approximately 10,000 adults with disabilities in New Jersey needing services, the demand for special needs housing has never been more urgent,” said Rose House CEO Tom Mitchell. “As individuals with developmental disabilities transition out of the school system and their caregivers grow older, the need for lifelong support becomes more crucial. Our mission is to ensure these individuals continue to receive the care and dignity they deserve, and we rely on the generosity of our community to make that possible. Fundraising efforts like our annual 50-50 raffle play a vital role in sustaining these essential services.”
The Forever Home Project will feature:
12 single-occupancy apartments designed for adults with developmental disabilities
Handicap-accessible vans to provide safe transportation
Trained caregivers available daily as needed
Community integration through employment opportunities and social events
Last year’s raffle raised a record-breaking $10,560 for Rose House. Tickets are $10.00 each, and the winning ticket will be drawn on December 18. The winner does not need to be present. To purchase tickets, call Rose House at (973) 984-0006, ext. 121, or email [email protected].
Rose House, based in Parsipany, creates forever homes that provide stability and opportunity for adults with special needs throughout Morris County. The nonprofit offers customized, self-directed programs to meet individual needs and is committed to building an inclusive future where everyone has a loving home. Rose House holds a four-star rating from CharityNavigator.org—the highest possible distinction—and has earned the Gold Seal of Transparency from Candid.
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon joins local leaders in honoring veterans, underscoring the county’s year-round commitment to those who served.
MORRIS COUNTY — Veterans from across Morris County were honored today at the Second Annual Veteran Appreciation Day, where more than 100 attendees gathered at Watnong VFW Post 3401 in Morris Plains to pay tribute to local service members.
Morris County Commissioners Thomas Mastrangelo and Christine Myers attended to show their appreciation, joined by Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Assemblyman Christian Barranco and Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr, who also expressed their support for veterans.
“Recognizing our veterans for all they have done for Morris County and for our nation is something we can never do often enough,” said Commissioner Mastrangelo. “While our county holds special ceremonies each Memorial Day and Veterans Day, our appreciation goes well beyond the holidays. We strive to honor and support our veterans every day of the year.”
Morris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo speaking to attendees at the event.
Commissioner Myers highlighted the Morris County Veterans Compendium, an ongoing project of the Morris County Office of Planning and Preservation that documents local veterans’ stories dating back to the Revolutionary War. The interactive database includes maps of battlefields, encampments, homesteads and gravesites, as well as records from later conflicts, including the Civil War, World Wars I and II, Vietnam, the Spanish-American and Philippine Wars, the War of 1812 and Morris County veterans who fought at Gettysburg.
The planning and preservation office is currently seeking submissions from veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan in anticipation of the 25th anniversary of the Global War on Terror. Stories can be submitted by contacting Jan Williams, cultural and historic resources specialist, at [email protected]
David Pearson, assistant director of veterans services at Catholic Charities (far left) and A.J. Luna, Army veteran and co-founder of NJ SOS Veteran Stakeholders (middle) hold the awards presented by to them by Welcome Home Vets of New Jersey. Val DiGiacinto, president of Welcome Home Vets of New Jersey, is standing between David and A.J.
“Here in Morris County, history is right in our backyard. General Washington’s troops endured two harsh winters at Jockey Hollow, and the Ford Mansion in Morristown served as his headquarters. Soldiers marched through what is now Boonton and Rockaway, leaving their mark as they fought for the independence we will celebrate on our nation’s 250th anniversary next year,” said Commissioner Myers, encouraging attendees to visit morriscounty250.org for upcoming Semiquincentennial events.
The Morris County Veterans Services Office, along with the Department of Human Services’ Navigating Hope and the Sheriff’s Office Hope One mobile service units, was also recognized for year-round support to veterans. Services include counseling, shelter placement, meal assistance, transportation and legal help. All three agencies were present at the event, providing on-site resources and information.
Beginning in September, a Veterans Service Officer will be available at County College of Morris’ (CCM) Veterans Resource Center on the first and third Thursday of each month. Shenandoah Ellis-Ulmer, coordinator of veteran & military services at CCM, also announced a new veterans support group, led by a U.S. Marine, which will begin meeting on campus in mid-September.
The event was hosted by Welcome Home Vets of New Jersey, Catholic Charities, NJ SOS Veteran Stakeholders, VFW 3401 and Morristown American Legion Post 59. Portofino’s Restaurant of Morristown provided a buffet lunch, which was served by student volunteers of Morristown High School.
During the event, Val DiGiacinto, president of Welcome Home Vets of New Jersey, also presented the organization’s Soaring Eagle Awards to David Pearson, assistant director of veterans services at Catholic Charities and A.J. Luna, Army veteran and co-founder of NJ SOS Veteran Stakeholders, recognizing their partnership and dedication to veterans through their organizations.
For more information on veterans’ services or to apply for the Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medal, visit the Morris County Veterans Services Office webpage or call (973) 285-6866.
HANOVER — A Whippany couple has been charged after repeated police calls to their property for disturbances and other violations, according to Hanover Township Police.
On Friday, July 18, 2025, Hanover Township Patrol Officer Thomas Adamiak charged Joseph Fallivene, 58, and Cynthia Fallivene, 56, both of Whippany, with maintaining a nuisance.
Police said the charges stem from numerous calls involving breaches of the peace by residents or guests at the Fallivenes’ property. These incidents included reports of criminal offenses, motor vehicle violations, and noise complaints.
Following the ongoing issues, both Joseph and Cynthia Fallivene were formally charged. They are scheduled to appear in court at a later date.
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.
HANOVER — On Monday, July 14, Hanover Township Police Detective Erick Magley and Police Officer Erik Woodruff arrested Zaudy Valemzuela, 38, of Parsippany, for shoplifting. Hanover Township Detective Magley had been investigating a series of thefts committed at ShopRite by the same suspect when the store contacted police to report that Valemzuela had returned and was shoplifting again.
Officers responded and apprehended Valemzuela as he attempted to leave the store without paying for merchandise. The investigation determined that the total value of stolen items from the current and prior incidents exceeded $3,700.
Valemzuela was charged in connection with all offenses and lodged in the Morris County Jail pending a 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.
LINCROFT — Governor Phil Murphy and New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan presented badges to 148 new troopers during the 167th New Jersey State Police graduation ceremony, held Friday at Brookdale Community College.
The graduating class includes 138 men and 10 women, with 143 college graduates, 15 military veterans, and 16 individuals with prior law enforcement experience. Fifty-seven were college athletes, and two previously served as firefighters. More than 100 graduates have family members who are active or retired law enforcement officers.
Training and Sacrifice
Recruits completed 26 weeks of rigorous training, which included classroom instruction, cultural diversity education, and scenario-based exercises such as motor vehicle stops and domestic violence responses. For the first time, the class visited the African American Museum and the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C., experiences designed to strengthen recruits’ understanding of justice and community trust.
The academy is one of the few fully residential training programs in the nation, requiring recruits to live on-site from Monday through Friday. During their training, two recruits welcomed newborn children, while six experienced the loss of a family member.
Leadership Remarks
Governor Murphy praised the graduates for exemplifying the core principles of the State Police.
“The graduates of the 167th Trooper Class have demonstrated the three principles of the New Jersey State Police: honor, duty, and fidelity,” Murphy said. “They will face challenges, but their commitment to serving New Jersey’s 9.5 million residents will guide them every step of the way.”
Colonel Callahan echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the responsibility ahead.
“Today’s graduation is a proud milestone,” he said. “These troopers have shown the discipline, commitment, and character to serve with honor, duty, and fidelity. Their training continues as they begin assignments across the state, where they will uphold their solemn commitment to protect and serve.”
Next Steps
The 148 new troopers will now begin their careers under supervision at State Police stations throughout New Jersey.
LINCROFT — Governor Phil Murphy and New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan presented badges to 148 new troopers during the 167th New Jersey State Police graduation ceremony, held Friday, August 15 at Brookdale Community College.
The graduating class includes 138 men and 10 women, with 143 college graduates, 15 military veterans, and 16 individuals with prior law enforcement experience. Fifty-seven were college athletes, and two previously served as firefighters. More than 100 graduates have family members who are active or retired law enforcement officers.
Training and Sacrifice
Recruits completed 26 weeks of rigorous training, which included classroom instruction, cultural diversity education, and scenario-based exercises such as motor vehicle stops and domestic violence responses. For the first time, the class visited the African American Museum and the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C., experiences designed to strengthen recruits’ understanding of justice and community trust.
The academy is one of the few fully residential training programs in the nation, requiring recruits to live on-site from Monday through Friday. During their training, two recruits welcomed newborn children, while six experienced the loss of a family member.
Newly sworn-in troopers begin their careers of service across the state following the Lincroft graduation ceremony.
Leadership Remarks
Governor Murphy praised the graduates for exemplifying the core principles of the State Police.
“The graduates of the 167th Trooper Class have demonstrated the three principles of the New Jersey State Police: honor, duty, and fidelity,” Murphy said. “They will face challenges, but their commitment to serving New Jersey’s 9.5 million residents will guide them every step of the way.”
Colonel Callahan echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the responsibility ahead.
“Today’s graduation is a proud milestone,” he said. “These troopers have shown the discipline, commitment, and character to serve with honor, duty, and fidelity. Their training continues as they begin assignments across the state, where they will uphold their solemn commitment to protect and serve.”
Next Steps
The 148 new troopers will now begin their careers under supervision at State Police stations throughout New Jersey.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — A Boonton Township man is facing multiple charges after allegedly fleeing from police during a traffic stop in Mountain Lakes last month.
On Friday, July 18, at approximately 11:06 p.m., an officer attempted to stop a motorcycle. Police said the driver, later identified as 21-year-old Baziar Roberts, refused to comply and sped away from the scene.
Following an investigation, Roberts was identified and issued summonses for failure to maintain lane, failure to stop for a red light, failure to signal a turn, careless driving, reckless driving, and eluding.
Roberts was also given a mandatory court appearance in connection with the motor vehicle violations and the criminal charge, according to police.
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.
MCPO Capt. Joe Costello, MCPO Capt. Steven Brylinski, MCPO Deputy Chief Jan-Michael Monrad, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, NJSACOP Director Harry Delgado, MCPO Chief of Staff Ernie Giampietro, and MCPO Capt. Mark Castellano.
MORRIS COUNTY — Local officials and law enforcement gathered last night for the Morris County Board of County Commissioners public meeting in Morristown, where the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office (MCPO) formally received its fourth reaccreditation from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP).
Harry Delgado, accreditation program director for NJSACOP, presented a reaccreditation certificate to Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and his leadership team, praising the MCPO for its continued excellence in training, policy, records management, community outreach and operations.
“Only a select few law enforcement agencies in the state have achieved reaccreditation four times. Out of all agencies in New Jersey — including sheriff’s offices, prosecutor’s offices, local law enforcement and campus police — about 54 percent earn accreditation once and remain in the program. Twelve percent obtain a second reaccreditation, and fewer than eight percent secure a third,” said Director Delgado. “The MCPO is now among less than six percent of agencies statewide to earn a fourth reaccreditation, demonstrating exceptional longevity and commitment towards following best practices.”
The reaccreditation follows a comprehensive assessment completed in April by NJSACOP, which reviewed compliance with 112 professional standards covering administration, personnel, operations, investigations and arrestee management. The MCPO was first accredited in 2013, and its status is now valid through June 2028.
Catch You Later Foundation Honored
Following the presentation, Prosecutor Carroll thanked Delgado and NJSACOP for their rigorous review.
“I commend Director Delgado and his team of accreditors for conducting a thorough and comprehensive examination of our office that fully evaluated and tested our operations and oversight functions,” said Prosecutor Carroll.
Prosecutor Carroll then honored Pam O’Donnell, founder of the Catch You Later Foundation, with a certificate recognizing her work to raise awareness about impaired and distracted driving. O’Donnell established the foundation after her husband, Tim, and 5-year-old daughter, Bridget, were killed in 2016 by an impaired driver on the New Jersey Turnpike.
“Pam O’Donnell turned personal tragedy into a mission of hope and action. Her foundation is helping raise awareness of dangerous driving behavior and inspiring people to speak up before it’s too late. Her work has directly supported our DWI enforcement efforts and public safety outreach across Morris County,” said Prosecutor Carroll.
Commissioners Douglas Cabana, John Krickus and Christine Myers; Director Tayfun Selen; Pam O’Donnell, founder of the Catch You Later Foundation; Prosecutor Robert Carroll; Commissioners Deborah Smith and Thomas Mastrangelo.
He also cited two high-profile impaired driving matters this year: an April crash in Roxbury that killed a young woman and led to a vehicular homicide charge, and a recent DWI checkpoint in Florham Park held in memory of Tim and Bridget O’Donnell.
“We have worked hard with our law enforcement partners, municipal leaders, county commissioners and administration to confront these perennial tragedies. Our local patrols have amplified their efforts to identify impaired vehicle operators,” said Prosecutor Carroll. “An important component of this effort is help from the public to notify police. When residents report dangerous driving, it makes a difference.”
The MCPO regularly coordinates DWI checkpoints and educational outreach in partnership with municipal police, supported by funding from the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. Between 2023 and 2024, the MCPO ran four DWI checkpoints, interviewing 1,116 drivers, resulting in six DWI arrests and 23 motor vehicle summonses being issued. So far in 2025, three checkpoints have been conducted with 657 interviews, resulting in two DWI arrests and 11 summonses.
“The MCPO’s reaccreditation from NJSACOP confirms what we in Morris County already know: that the Prosecutor’s Office is committed to the highest standards of professionalism and public service,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen. “We also commend Prosecutor Carroll’s dedicated efforts to reduce impaired and reckless driving, which continues to claim far too many lives.”
The Catch You Later Foundation promotes New Jersey’s #77 Aggressive Driving reporting program and provides scholarships in Bridget’s memory.
“The memory of Tim and Bridget continues to make an impact. We are proud to partner with those who are willing to stand up, speak out and help prevent another family from experiencing such loss,” Prosecutor Carroll said.
To date in 2025, there have been 315 fatal crashes resulting in 335 deaths in New Jersey, according to the New Jersey State Police. Morris County has reported 14 fatal crashes resulting in 17 deaths. From 2006 through 2023, the state recorded 10,356 fatal crashes, with 2,428 — about 23 percent — involving drivers who had consumed alcohol, according to the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General.
Attendees at the meeting included members of the MCPO, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, local police departments, and Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr , and Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Knights of Columbus Bishop McLaughlin Council #3495 will host its 41st Annual Charity Golf Outing on Monday, September 29, at Flanders Valley Golf Course, located at 81 Pleasant Hill Road in Flanders. All proceeds from the event will benefit local charities and disabled citizens in the surrounding communities.
The day begins with registration and lunch at 11:00 a.m., followed by a 12:00 p.m. shotgun start. In the event of inclement weather, the rain date is set for Monday, October 6.
The $175 golfer entry fee includes golf, unlimited beer and wine, buffet dinner, and a chance to win over 50 prizes. A “Dinner Only” option is available for $75, which also includes unlimited beer and wine and entry into the prize drawings.
Golfers and sponsors must submit payment no later than September 22. Checks should be made payable to Knights of Columbus. Hole sponsorships are also available. Click here for more information.
For more information, call the Flanders Valley Golf Course at (973) 584-5382.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
DENVILLE — On Friday, August 8, at approximately 10:52 p.m., Denville Police responded to reports of a black sedan that had crashed into the woods off Franklin Road near the train overpass.
Upon arrival, officers determined that the driver, Marcie B. Levinson, 60, of Morris Plains, was impaired due to alcohol and/or drugs. Levinson was placed under arrest and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing.
She was charged with:
39:4-50 Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
39:4-97 Careless driving
39:4-96 Reckless driving
39:4-88 Traffic on marked lanes
Levinson was issued the appropriate summonses and released to a sober friend pending a future appearance in Denville Municipal Court.
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.
DENVILLE — On Thursday, August 7, 2025, at approximately 1:03 a.m., Denville Police Officers conducted a motor vehicle stop on Route 53 South after observing a vehicle following too closely.
During the stop, officers determined that the driver, identified as Fabian Carvajal Patino, 21, of Morris Plains, was operating the vehicle while under the influence. Patino was placed under arrest and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing.
He was charged with:
39:4-50 Driving while under the influence
39:4-89 Following too closely
39:4-96 Reckless driving
39:4-97 Careless driving
Patino was issued the appropriate summonses and released to a sober friend pending a future appearance in Denville Municipal Court.
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.
