PARSIPPANY — Hanover Township Police Officer Brian Morrisroe apprehended two individuals, Dennis Lake, 48, Lake Hiawatha, and Adele Todd, 41, residing at the Red Carpet Inn in Cedar Knolls, on charges related to assault.
Officer Morrisroe received a call regarding a shoplifting incident in progress at Walmart on Thursday, December 21.
Upon arriving at the scene, he discovered the suspected shoplifters in the process of loading merchandise into their vehicle. He issued orders for them to cease their activities and place their hands on the vehicle. However, they refused to comply and began resisting arrest. Given the active resistance and assault on the officers, additional law enforcement personnel were called in for assistance.
After a brief altercation, both Lake and Todd were apprehended and subsequently taken to the Hanover Township Police Headquarters for processing. They were formally charged with shoplifting goods exceeding $1,800 in value, conspiracy, obstruction, harassment, and resisting arrest. Dennis Lake faced additional charges, including disorderly conduct, and received motor vehicle summonses for various violations such as expired inspection, obstructed view, cracked windshield, and operating an unsafe vehicle.
Adele Todd was also charged with aggravated assault, being under the influence, and hindering law enforcement. During her time in custody, she intentionally obstructed the toilet in the holding cell, leading to an additional charge of criminal mischief. Dennis Lake was released, pending his court date, while Adele Todd was transported to Morris County Correctional Facility, where she will await her court date.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the individual(s) are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee is thrilled to announce that Jack Haren, a distinguished resident of Morris Plains, has been chosen as the Grand Marshal for the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Haren, a first-generation Irish American, grew up in upper Manhattan, with his roots tracing back to County Kerry and County Clare through his parents. He graduated from Fordham University in 1969 and served two years on active duty as a Signal Corps Lieutenant in the United States Army. His commitment to supporting veterans is evident through his membership in the American Legion Post 59 in Morristown. Additionally, he serves as the site coordinator for Wreaths Across America, a program that honors veterans by placing wreaths on their graves in over 2,200 cemeteries across the United States.
Jack Haren
“We’re very excited to have Jack lead us down South Street this year,” exclaimed Publicity Director Michael Leavy. “His profound passion for Irish history and culture makes him an outstanding representative of the Irish-American experience.”
For six decades, Skellig Michael, a remote Irish island once inhabited by medieval monks, has held a special place in the imagination of Grand Marshal Jack Haren.
Haren’s fascination with Skellig Michael began at the age of 16 when he first glimpsed the island’s rugged outline, located roughly seven miles off the coast of County Kerry. Once home to reclusive monks living in beehive huts, Skellig Michael has now attained the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was during an adult visit to the island that Haren had a profound experience that has remained with him throughout his life.
Skellig Michael now finds its place on Haren’s Grand Marshal Pin, a design collaboration between him and the Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. This pin has complemented the official St. Patrick’s Day Parade Pin for over two decades, serving as a symbol to promote this beloved annual event. The formal unveiling of Haren’s pin took place on December 7 at Grasshopper Off the Green in Morristown, attracting more than 100 parade enthusiasts. The event featured captivating performances by the Coffin Ships, Heritage Irish Dance Company, and Rory O’Moore Pipes and Drums. However, the highlight of the evening was Haren’s poignant talk about the significance of Skellig Michael.
More than one hundred people attended the formal unveiling of Haren’s pin
Drawing upon his profound knowledge of Irish history and culture, Haren shared his journey as a 16-year-old to his mother’s family farm in Waterville, County Kerry. In those days, rural Ireland had yet to be connected by power lines, leading Haren to spend his days fishing and his evenings gathered around the fireplace, listening to stories.
He recounted, “On my daily bicycle ride into the village—because the only way to get there was on a bicycle—I would look out into the Atlantic Ocean. Way out in the Atlantic, I would see two jagged isles that were about six or seven miles out. I’m talking about Skellig Michael and its companion, Little Skellig. They were the focus of my Uncle Paddy, who would tell and retell stories about those two isles almost every evening as we sat around the fireplace.”
Parade Committee members Tom and Liz Hand were among the event organizers.
Uncle Paddy’s stories painted vivid pictures of the monks who inhabited the islands, their solitary existence due to the rocky terrain’s limitations, Viking raids, and the practices of the Irish Church before the influence of the Church of Rome.
This childhood experience left an indelible mark on Haren, although he wouldn’t have the chance to visit Skellig Michael until a family trip in 1995 when he was 48 years old. Haren and his brother chartered a fishing trawler captain to brave the rough seas and land them on the island, which lacked proper piers and docks.
During this visit, Haren took a photograph that would become the basis for his Grand Marshal Pin.
He vividly recalled the experience, saying, “We hiked 656 steps to the top, which is about 750 feet. That’s about 60 percent of the height of the Empire State Building. The winds up there were really howling, which is what you’d expect, and of course there were no guardrails. From that view, you could see Antiquity.”
The view included six stone beehive huts where monks had lived for centuries in search of solitude and a connection with God. For Haren, this moment on Skellig Michael was a profound fusion of his Irish heritage and his spirituality, set against the backdrop of County Kerry, his mother’s homeland.
“It has stayed with me in my forever consciousness,” he said. Now, this special moment is available to everyone through Haren’s Grand Marshal Pin.
The 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade of Morris County is set to kick off on South Street at noon on Saturday, March 9, at 12:00 Noon. Those interested in supporting the parade are encouraged to become Parade Patrons.
MORRIS COUNTY — In an inspiring display of unity and compassion, Mutual Morris, a community organization dedicated to making a positive impact, has announced a heartfelt call to action. They are rallying the Morris County community to support their efforts in aiding the annual Point in Time survey of homelessness. With a strong desire to bring warmth and relief to those in need, Mutual Morris is actively seeking donations and volunteers to join their cause.
Mutual Morris is requesting donations of essential items that can make a significant difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. Warm blankets, clothing, non-perishable food, and hygiene products are among the items needed to provide comfort and support during the survey.
Items in need: •Socks •Phone chargers •Large Ziploc bags •Snacks that are easy to carry and eat •Water •Reusable water bottles •Small packages of toiletries like deodorant, moisturizer, lip balm, baby wipes, facial tissues, feminine hygiene
Additionally, Mutual Morris is extending an invitation to the community, urging all to come together on January 16 and 22 at the Morris County Library. On these dates, volunteers are encouraged to join the organization in sorting and packing the collected items into individual bags. It’s an opportunity not only to contribute to a meaningful cause but also to connect with fellow community members.
The event promises a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, fostering a strong sense of community spirit. An event page has been set up on Facebook, where interested individuals can find more details and RSVP: Event Page Link.
Mutual Morris, through its dedicated members and supporters, aims to make a positive impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Morris County. Their call to action reflects the power of community unity and the collective goodwill of individuals coming together to support a cause that transcends boundaries.
Drop off at 37 Beverly Road, Madison, or 104 Fox Hill Road, Parsippany.
PARSIPPANY — Your community needs you! By staffing a polling location, you will:
Earn $300 for working on Election Day and $21.44 per hour on in-person Early Voting days.
See our great democracy in action, firsthand, and enjoy the feeling that comes with contributing to your local community, your state, and your country.
Be a part of your democracy – become a Poll Worker! Poll Workers are trained to aid voters on Election Day, guide them through the voting process, and answer any questions voters have. They are a vital part of every election!
Residents of all ages, including college and High School students, are encouraged to apply.
Qualifications
Must be a registered voter in Morris County
Must be able to read and speak the English language
Must be able to work a full day. No half-day schedules
Training Requirements
New Poll Workers must attend training provided by the Board of Elections
All Poll Workers must attend training classes at least once every two years
When new Laws are introduced, mandatory training may be required for all
Training Classes are hands-on and approximately three and a half hours long. They are held 3 – 4 weeks before the Primary and General Elections.
Application Procedure
Complete this Poll Worker Application
You will be contacted eight weeks before the next election with the training class schedule.
PARSIPPANY — All Saints Academy is excited to announce its Annual Tricky Tray event, which will take place on Friday, February 9, at 189 Baldwin Road. Tickets are still available but selling quickly. To secure your tickets, please reach out to the school directly at (973) 334-4704.
All Saints Academy is extending an invitation to businesses in the surrounding areas to consider participating by contributing items, services, gift certificates, or by becoming a sponsor. The school serves students not only from Parsippany but also from Montville, Boonton, Denville, and beyond. In appreciation of your support, the names of donors will be acknowledged in the event program and featured on the event’s Facebook page, “All Saints Academy Annual Tricky Tray,” as space allows.
This event serves as the school’s largest fundraiser, and the funds raised play a pivotal role in providing current and future students with the necessary academic resources to excel. If you or your business would like to contribute, please contact Laura Febbi at LFebbi@gmail.com or call (973) 214-7520 for additional information.
All Saints Academy is a dynamic and diverse school community rooted in Catholic faith and tradition. The school offers a comprehensive education spanning from Preschool to Grade 8. Their mission is to foster the holistic development of each child and prepare students to evolve into self-assured, resourceful learners who embody responsibility, faith, and global citizenship. For more details or to schedule a tour, please call (973) 334-4704 or click here.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High and Parsippany Hills seniors are encouraged to apply for multiple $1,000 scholarships open to ALL graduating seniors.
Scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing further education in a College, Trade/Technical school, or Nursing Program. Parsippany residents attending the Morris County School of Technology are eligible to apply for the Technical/Trade Scholarship. Apply through your school counselor and follow their timeline and procedures.
Scholarships have been awarded to hundreds of students over 65 years thanks to the club’s many successful fundraisers.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), which are the largest volunteer women’s service organizations in the country/state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. General Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month September through April at 7:00 p.m.
To learn more about our upcoming General Meeting and our organization’s activities, you can get in touch with Ginny at (973) 887-0336, visit our website by clicking here, reach out via email at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.
PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, January 3, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, along with Senator Joe Pennacchio, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, Frank Cahill, Chairman of Parsippany Economic Development Committee, Vice Chair Dr. Maheta, Member Scott Donnelly, Jigar Shah, former Council President Loretta Gragnani, former Council Vice President Michael dePierro and Councilmember Judy Hernandez gathered to extend a warm welcome to Dr. Sheldon Greenspan, Dr. Lizzi, Dr. Smithgall-Brown, and their staff at the new location of Greenspan Family Eyecare.
When it comes to choosing eyeglass frames, there are indeed hundreds of options available to suit various preferences, face shapes, and style preferences. Eyeglass frames come in different materials, shapes, sizes, and colors.
The new facility, situated at 1055 Parsippany Boulevard, Suite 104, represents a state-of-the-art establishment that upholds the Greenspan Family Eyecare legacy of delivering high-quality eye care services to Parsippany and its surrounding areas.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mayor Barberio expressed his appreciation, saying, “You have served this community for over 40 years and can count multiple generations of families as your patients. We appreciate you being a member of our community and look forward to many more years of your attentive care.”
While presenting a plaque to Dr. Greenspan, Chairman Frank Cahill expressed his gratitude, stating, “We highly value your decision to maintain Greenspan Family Eye Care within Parsippany.
While presenting a plaque to Dr. Greenspan, Chairman Frank Cahill expressed his gratitude, stating, “We highly value your decision to maintain Greenspan Family Eye Care within Parsippany. With a remarkable four decades of dedicated service in our community, your commitment to fulfilling eyecare needs has remained unwavering. Your extensive range of services encompasses the treatment and management of eye diseases and disorders, comprehensive eye examinations, as well as the provision of eyeglasses and contact lenses. Notably, Dr. Greenspan holds the esteemed position of being a member of the State Board of Optometry, appointed by the Governor of New Jersey. #PRIDEINPARSIPPANY. We sincerely thank you for your continued presence in our community!”
Frank Cahill expresses gratitude to Dr. Greenspan for his ongoing service to the Parsippany community.Greenspan Eye Care boasts state-of-the-art equipment, a crucial component in delivering top-notch eye examinations and treatments. Employing cutting-edge technology not only elevates the precision of diagnoses but also enhances patient comfort, resulting in the provision of optimal eye care services.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2024. Click here to view the magazine.
PARSIPPANY — On Thursday, January 11, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police were called to a home on Paris Place following a reported burglary. Initial findings revealed that an unidentified suspect(s) had unlawfully entered the residence between Tuesday, January 9, and January 11, by forcing their way in through the rear of the house and subsequently searching through its interior.
The investigation into this matter remains active, and individuals with any pertinent information are urged to reach out to the Parsippany Investigative Division at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — On January 9, 2024, officers responded to a business on Edwards Road for a stolen vehicle. The victim advised officers that on December 23, 2023, a 2024 Freightliner M2 was stolen from their property. The truck was valued at approximately $150,000 by the victim.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Investigative Division at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — A fire broke out in Room 227 of the Days Inn located at 3159 Route 46 on Friday, December 12, around 7:15 p.m. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries.
Multiple fire departments, including the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department District 1, Parsippany District 5 Fire Department, Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District 6, and Boonton Fire Department, swiftly responded to the incident.
Initial reports indicated that the fire had started on the second floor, leading to the evacuation of the building, which was filled with dense smoke. Thanks to the prompt response of the firefighters, the fire was rapidly extinguished. Subsequently, a fire investigator and fire prevention personnel were requested to the scene.
