Increase in Vehicle Theft Attempts and Home Break-Ins Alarms Parsippany Residents

Frank L. Cahill
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Increase in Vehicle Theft Attempts and Home Break-Ins Alarms Parsippany Residents

PARSIPPANY — The videos below display a statement addressing a pressing security issue in Parsippany. “Our community saw another break-in last night. After these criminals failed to steal parked cars, they turned to the residence and forcibly tried to enter. This is an issue that needs to be addressed strongly and I have spoken with the Mayor and Police Chief who assure me they are looking for solutions. Keeping residents safe is my number one priority – I will do everything in my power to support the police on this issue,” said Councilman Justin Musella.

The Powdermill homeowner said they first attempted to break into the car and when they failed, they attempted to enter the residence.

Dennis Letts stated “If I recall correctly, we offered solutions and they were ignored. The officers of the Parsippany Police Department are doing their best under challenging circumstances but the leadership coming from Town Hall is lacking. If anyone wants specifics, contact me and I’ll be happy to elaborate. The taxpayers of this town deserve better! And one more thing…there were THREE similar incidents over the past four nights, all occurring just before dawn. Two of those incidents involved attempts to break into homes after the perps failed to get into vehicles.”

Over the past few days, we have been notified of three separate break-ins in Parsippany, all occurring during the pre-dawn hours. Here’s a synopsis:
10/27        Glacier Hills        5:14 a.m.        Attempted vehicle theft
10/28        Dartford Rd        5:30 a.m.        Car/residence break-in
11/1          Powder Mill        5:00 a.m.        Attempted break-in

The Parsippany Police Department issued the following statement: Over the last two months, we have seen a decline in certain property crimes, such as vehicle burglaries, vehicle thefts, and in some instances, burglaries to residences where the criminals search for vehicle keys. While there has been a decline, they are still occurring in Parsippany and other towns. These incidents can occur at any time, but criminals favor the overnight hours where they can use the cover of darkness to assist in concealing themselves. There are steps you can take to help reduce the chances of becoming a victim:

•If you see something suspicious, report it immediately

•Lock your vehicle

•Remove garage door openers from vehicles

•Keep exterior lights on overnight, which includes lighting in the backyard

•Utilize an alarm system that not only has window/door sensors, but shock or glass brake sensors

•If you have a fence, make sure gates are locked to delay and/or deter criminals.

Patrols have been increased in residential areas and we are rolling out different techniques, tactics, and technology to help further reduce and hopefully eliminate these incidents.

Consider performing a Home Security Assessment which identifies vulnerabilities in your home’s security. Take advantage of Mayor Barberio’s new Home Security Self-Assessment booklet which contains tips & pointers of the best options to consider in various areas of home security. Download your copy here: https://tinyurl.com/ParHomeSecurityFillable or pick up a booklet at the following locations:

•Parsippany Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard
•Parsippany Police Headquarters, 3339 Route 46 East
•Parsippany Community Center, 1130 Knoll Road
*Parsippany PAL, 33 Baldwin Road
•Parsippany Library, 449 Halsey Road

In an unrelated matter, Parsippany Focus was contacted by a resident on Katherine Drive. The resident was concerned regarding a suspicious vehicle, parked for an extended period.

She called the Parsippany Police Department on October 24 at 12:28 p.m. reporting the vehicle. Upon the arrival of Sergeant Mcginnis, Patrolman Cavaliere, and Patrol Seifert they observed the suspicious vehicle outside the residence. The officers made contact with the driver who stated he had pulled over to contact one of his friends who lives nearby. He was driving a 2019 Chevy 4-door black vehicle. The officers didn’t observe any criminal activity and were advised to leave the area. The homeowner was advised to continue to report anything suspicious or out of the ordinary.

If you observe any suspicious activity, it is crucial to report it to the police immediately. Quick reporting can help law enforcement respond effectively, possibly prevent a crime from occurring, and ensure the safety of our community. Remember to provide as much detail as possible without putting yourself at risk. You can reach the Parsippany Police Department by dialing 911 or (973)  263-4300 in nonemergency incidents.

Siya Patel Honored as November Music Student of the Month

Frank L. Cahill
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Siya Patel Honored as November Music Student of the Month

PARSIPPANY  — Students from Parsippany, Morristown, Randolph, Chatham, and Mendham schools were honored as Mayo Performing Arts Center’s November 2023 Music Students of the Month – Outstanding Orchestra Members — before the Thursday, November 2 performance by Pink Martini. Siya Patel a seventh-grade student from Central Middle School was among the honorees.

Students were nominated by their teachers and were chosen by the Theatre’s Education Department based on their commitment to excellence in the performing arts. The students were honored on stage before the concert.  One honoree, Matthew Bozza of Morristown High School, had the opportunity to perform a solo with Pink Martini on one song in the concert.

The Theatre will honor a group of students every month throughout the season and invites area teachers to nominate students for this honor.

The 2022-2023 Music Student of the Month program is supported by The Walter F. and Alice Gorham Foundation, Inc.

About the November Music Students of the Month (bio supplied by their instructors)

Siya Patel

Grade 7, Central Middle School; Parsippany; Nominated by Darby MacAdams

Siya is a smart, kind, and hardworking student who is beyond eager to learn. She is always pushing herself to learn new pieces and skills. Siya consistently participates in class by answering critical thinking questions and even demonstrating for her peers. Every day after class, she comes up to me asking for a lesson during her lunchtime, which speaks to her dedication to the violin, learning, and music. I am very lucky to teach Siya, and she is most certainly an outstanding orchestra member.

Matthew Bozza

Grade 12, Morristown High School; Morristown; Nominated by David Gallagher

Matthew is an incredibly talented trumpet player and puts forth his best effort in all of his ensembles. He is currently the Trumpet Captain for the Marching Band, Principal Player for the Wind Ensemble, and Lead Trumpet for the Spectrum Jazz Ensemble. Additionally, Matthew has played numerous times with our high school orchestra, and pit orchestras, and spent the summer performing with the Essex County Summer Players Orchestra. 

Hannah Cochran

Grade 12, Morristown High School; Morristown; Nominated by Norma Davis

Hanna Cochran is an outstanding senior member of the Morristown High School Orchestra, where she serves as cello section leader.  Hanna is an extraordinary student who is passionate about music.  She has been a dedicated member of the Orchestra for all four years at MHS, as well as performing with the Camerata, Pit Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, and Abbey Orchestra.  Hanna is an expressive performer who always strives to capture the style and the story in the music.  She is an excellent collaborator who works hard to help all of the other cello players develop expertise and confidence, voluntarily peer-teaching the cello lessons and sectionals each week.  Hanna’s cheerful personality and ability to share techniques, fingerings, rhythms, and sound production tips make her a great role model, cultivating camaraderie among the cellists in the orchestra and helping each player to thrive.  Hanna can always be relied upon to give her best effort in rehearsals and performances.  She is diligent, sensitive, adventurous, and kind, and all of these traits are evident in every stroke of her bow.  Hanna is naturally curious and loves to explore the many ways music can be expressed.  Hanna is a truly wonderful musician and natural leader who exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding orchestra member.

Jamie Eck

Grade 12, Delbarton School; Morristown; Nominated by Andrew Lyman

Jamie is the Delbarton Symphony Orchestra’s principal clarinetist and was a member of the 2023 Region 1 HS Band and NJ All-State Band. Jamie also serves as our Tri-M Music Honor Society President and performs in our school Pep Band. Without a doubt, Jamie is a terrific musician who has always been serious about music. His musicianship is of a high caliber and he stands out at school performances. Jamie is always willing and eager to help other musicians improve. I can always count on Jamie and he will have a bright future in music. 

Claire He

Grade 8, Randolph Middle School; Randolph; Nominated by Genevieve Sallemi

Claire He has set herself apart as an outstanding violinist, team member, and leader in the orchestra. Claire not only participates in the 8th grade orchestra but has also participated in the after-school honors orchestra club, Con Brio, for the past three years. Claire has attended every lesson, has come to practice during lunch, and is constantly trying out new music. She has auditioned for the NJSMA Regions orchestra regularly attends private lessons and performs outside of school in the greater community. While Claire excels in her musical abilities, the true reason I’d like to nominate her is because of her patience during class, her willingness to help her peers, her humbleness when it comes to her abilities, and the consistent kindness that she shows to everyone around her. Claire has worked so hard over the course in orchestra and in life and she certainly deserves to be recognized.

Santiago Montes

Grade 8, Frelinghuysen Middle School; Morristown; Nominated by Samantha Tomblin

Santi is a violist in the 8th-grade orchestra here at Frelinghuysen Middle School. He has been a member of the orchestra and Chamber Orchestra for all three years in this school and has also served as section leader during many of our concerts. Santi was one of 2 middle school orchestra students selected to play as part of the pit orchestra last year for our school’s production of Peter Pan. Santiago is a very hard-working, responsible, and dedicated student.  He is kind and collaborates wonderfully with other members of his section and the orchestra as a whole. Santi asks thoughtful questions and is excited to grow in his knowledge and love for music. Attending this concert would be a wonderful opportunity for Santi to see his instrument represented as part of a more unique ensemble and inspire him to continue with his studies as he enters high school next year.

Isabella Santucci

Grade 11, School District of the Chathams; Chatham; Nominated by Liam Keller

 Isabella is a highly organized and motivated musician, constantly striving to achieve her high standard for performance in everything she does. Isabella is a strong student leader and her peers and faculty respect her academic work and character.  As a member of the orchestra program and music peer mentoring program, Isabella was confident during rehearsals and consistently demonstrated excellence during many professional performances. Isabella has demonstrated leadership abilities time and time again being in charge of the 2nd Violin section for her Junior year in the Concert Orchestra, and taking on extra responsibilities to help the ensemble thrive.  Isabella has been a constant positive force of energy motivating her peers to excellence.  Always interested in the concerns of others, she was available to help students requesting assistance and offered to teach free lessons to younger students to foster their love of music. 

Allen Wu            

Grade 8, Mountain View Middle School; Mendham; Nominated by Leigh Carpenter

Allen is one of, if not THE most accelerated string student our school has seen in the seventeen years I’ve taught here.  He plays his violin at a very high level not only technically, but also MUSICALLY.  In addition, I am impressed by his thinking.  He understands musical concepts and relates all aspects of music including aesthetics, technique, and theory to his and our orchestra’s playing.  But being in an ensemble is about more than the individual and I am so grateful that Allen is so generous with his knowledge.  He peer-mentors classmates, sharing with them the knowledge he has acquired.   He does this thoughtfully and encouragingly. The motivation and playing levels of his classmates are rising because of him.  I am so very fortunate to have Allen as a student. He inspires me and is a joy to teach.  He is a huge asset to our music program and our orchestra.

Letter to the Editor: I Support Timothy Berrios, Andrew Choffo, and Matthew Devitto

Letters to the Editor
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Letter to the Editor: I Support Timothy Berrios, Andrew Choffo, and Matthew Devitto

Dear Editor:

I’d like to take the time to thank all the candidates who are running for this year’s Board of Education election.   Your commitment to service, the students of this district, and your time are appreciated.  I wish you all the best of luck. 

Having joined the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education just a couple of years ago myself, I have learned the responsibilities and commitment of serving on this board.  It truly is an amazing experience to serve our district and town in this capacity.   Many might think we just attend a couple of meetings a month but that’s not the case…board members are expected to attend committee meetings, executive sessions, and public meetings, act as liaisons both in and out of the district at times, and are encouraged to attend training, workshops, and county meetings as much as possible.  

Three of this year’s candidates have shown their dedication to doing all this and more.  When Timothy Berrios, Andrew Choffo, and Matthew Devitto have been on the PTH BOE, they have always worked hard, taken advantage of every opportunity to learn, proved their commitment to this district, and have maintained a keen sense of what the students of our district need.  Tim, Andy, and Matt have always been willing to help in any way they could to guide newer board members and help them “learn the ropes.” They also care very deeply for the families in our district and I have personally witnessed them offering up their time and experience to anyone in the community when needed.  

When I think of Tim, Andy, and Matt as board members, one of the most distinct advantages they have is their years of experience. Between the three of them, they have served for more than thirty years on the Parsippany – Troy Hills Board of Education.  The importance of these years cannot be overstated. All of them have served in numerous if not all, committees and chaired many of them. Tim and Andy have also served in leadership positions over the years. These gentlemen have each brought an immense amount of knowledge to the board table that has benefitted this district in many ways.  Over the years, they have been able to keep our district very fiscally responsible with the budget as well as highlight many of our excellent student achievements.  They have also been responsible for creating sound policies and achieving goals that have led to continued district success. Any decisions they made have always been deliberate and thoughtful with the best interest of the entire district in mind at all times.   Experienced candidates like Tim, Andy, and Matt bring trustworthy, steady, and reasonable voices to the board table.   Together, they have been part of the reason that Parsippany-Troy Hills continues to be an outstanding and desirable district.  

Tim, Andy, and Matt bring with them an impeccable amount of integrity, respect, and trust as well.  All three of them are very devoted to their families, are well-respected in the community, and have been trusted and chosen over and over by the citizens of our town to be on the Board of Education.  They lead with their morals and values above all else.  They do not take the role of a Board of Education member lightly and are always ready and willing to do what is right for all the students in the district. I have been very privileged to serve alongside them and I cannot think of any three people who would be a better fit on the PTH BOE than them.   They have, once again, without any hesitation, thrown their names into the ring to serve another term on the PTH BOE and are ready to hit the ground running!  Therefore, I enthusiastically endorse Tim Berrios, Andy Choffo, and Matt Devitto for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education.

Sheethal Abraham

Any statements made by Sheethal Abraham are her own opinion as a private citizen only and not the thoughts or positions of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education.    I do not speak in any way for the PTH BOE.   

Community Options Opens New Home for People with Disabilities

Frank L. Cahill
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Community Options Opens New Home for People with Disabilities

PARSIPPANY – Senator Joseph Pennacchio and Mayor James Barberio joined councilmembers and Community Options for a ribbon cutting at a new home supporting people with significant disabilities in Parsippany on Thursday, November 2.

“It was a wonderful ribbon cutting for the newest community home for Community Options. A terrific organization. Welcome to Parsippany,” said Senator Joseph Pennacchio.

Community Options is a leading national nonprofit that develops housing and employment support for 6,000 people with disabilities across 12 states. The organization operates over 150 homes in New Jersey and 650 across the country. The four-bedroom home is Community Options’ sixth home in Parsippany.

“I am happy to welcome another specialized home into our community that will foster and support the needs of those individuals with disabilities,” said Mayor James Barberio. “Someone once said that ‘inclusion is not bringing people into what already exists, it is making a new space, a better space for everyone.’  This house has witnessed new families move in and other families move away. While this may not be what we think of as a traditional family, it is a family nonetheless and one that will bring a new sense of enrichment to this neighborhood. Just as every house has its differences so has every person. Welcome to Parsippany and welcome home.”

Community Options partnered with the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills to develop the home through the local affordable housing trust fund. The ribbon cutting was also attended by Council President Loretta Gragnani, Council Vice President Michael dePierro, and Councilman Justin Musella.

“We are proud to partner with the Mayor and Council to develop this new home in Parsippany,” said Tracy Mendola, Community Options’ Regional State Director. “Our community homes help municipalities meet their affordable housing needs while providing a critical service to people with significant disabilities.”

Mushrooms Abound at Troy Meadows Preserve

Press Release
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Mushrooms Abound at Troy Meadows Preserve

PARSIPPANY — Many of us only think of mushrooms and fungi in terms of pizza toppings, eaten during a marathon viewing of The Last of Us (featuring an apocalyptic cordyceps outbreak.) The truth is, mycology is a fascinating field, and the parks, forests, and even backyards near us provide a great opportunity to take up a new hobby and meet some fascinating people.

Naturalists Dorothy Smullen and Lyla Meader, both active with the New Jersey Mycological Association (NJMA), established this on a recent guided tour in Parsippany. The “Mushroom Walk” event, held at Wildlife Preserves’ Troy Meadows Preserve, offered a crash course in mycology and a field outing or “foray” for a dozen lucky visitors who pre-registered for this limited admission event.

A briefing before Mushroom Walk at Troy Meadows Photo Credit: Luca Fariello

Some of the species encountered at the most recent event included Hen of the Woods, Bleeding Mycena, and Turkey Tail.

As expected, this foray was more productive than last year’s outing in the same area, thanks to the higher levels of precipitation during summer 2023, in comparison with 2022’s drought conditions.

Dorothy Smullen, carrying her wicker basket, knife, and magnifying loupe, is a retired high school science teacher whose love of mycology is contagious. Smullen, who hails from Brooklyn [where she obtained her Masters in biology] is a sought-after speaker on many aspects of the natural world, including botany, insects, birds, and frogs, and – – of course – – fungi. She became interested in the field 50 years ago, after moving from the city to a home near the Passaic River where she was amazed to see so many mushrooms on the riverbank after a storm. Her science background made her curious to identify these organisms using what was then a newly published field guide. She confirmed the identification of her find by checking with a Rutgers professor and learned about the NJMA, joining in 1975. Among many other prestigious affiliations in the NJ natural world, Dorothy Smullen also serves as past President of the NJMA.

Bleeding Mycena (Mycena haematopus) at Troy Meadows Photo Credit: Dorothy Smullen

Lyla Meader, NJMA’s current Secretary, has been interested in the natural world since she began exploring the fields and creeks of Schenectady County, NY, as a child. She learned from her mother to forage seeds, grapes, and berries but mushrooms – – other than the giant puffballs – – were off-limits. Decades later, Meader happened to attend a mushroom walk led by Dorothy Smullen and was taken with the beauty and many uses of mushrooms. A chance encounter led Meader to discover and photograph an enormous “Hen of the Woods” on the base of a tree at her own home, and she was hooked. She took this as a sign to join the NJMA and has enjoyed finding and photographing mushrooms ever since, sharing her discoveries and interest with “anyone who will listen,” she says cheekily. Meader also finds herself drawn to the interesting, intelligent, and friendly people who attend meetings and forays. This Mushroom Walk event at Troy Meadows attracted a range of enthusiastic participants who ranged from budding naturalists to degreed scientists, all of whom were anxious to share and discuss the day’s discoveries.

Visitors search for mushrooms at Troy Meadows Photo Credit: Len Fariello

Wicker baskets are typically used for specimen collection during a mushroom foray, to prevent crushing and smothering the delicate fungus. The magnifying loupe, such as the ones Smullen and Meader carry, allows minuscule detail to be observed, such as the absence or presence of microscopic pores, for correct identification. When collecting mushrooms to ID, it can be helpful to view the entire structure including the point of connection to the bark or log where it is found, so the field knife (used carefully) may be helpful to free the specimen without damage.

The foray included a display of Smullen’s mushroom artifacts, including artwork, mushroom paper, and even a handbag made entirely of mushroom leather. Fungi have roles in the environment including the breakdown of organic material and as a food source for various animals, but their ability to facilitate communication between plant organisms is only recently becoming better understood, as symbiotic fungi create an underground network that allows some plants and trees to distribute resources and alert others to environmental threats.

To learn more about the New Jersey Mycological Association or to join as a member, visit their website at njmyco.org. To receive advance notice about events in Parsippany at Troy Meadows, visit wildlifepreserves.org and scroll down to Join Our Email List. Most Wildlife Preserve events are low-cost or free of charge, and many events are open to children. Troy Meadows is open to the public during daylight hours. For points of entry and visitor regulations visit wildlifepreserves.org.

Parsippany Deli’s Ed Hansberry Celebrated for 55 Years of Business

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Deli’s Ed Hansberry Celebrated for 55 Years of Business

PARSIPPANY  — Mayor James Barberio of Parsippany-Troy Hills honored Ed Hansberry with a “Certificate of Achievement” in recognition of his remarkable 55 years in business.

The Parsippany Deli, under Ed’s stewardship, has become a cornerstone of the community, celebrated for its exceptional Irish foods and deli offerings.

The certificate not only acknowledges Ed Hansberry’s longevity in business but also commends his role as an outstanding community figure, offering praise for his significant contributions to the township of Parsippany.

Mayor James Barberio of Parsippany-Troy Hills honored Ed Hansberry with a “Certificate of Achievement” in recognition of his remarkable 55 years in business

President Carol Tiesi of Kiwanis Club Delivers Food Donation to Parsippany Health Services

Frank L. Cahill
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President Carol Tiesi of Kiwanis Club Delivers Food Donation to Parsippany Health Services

PARSIPPANY — President Carol Tiesi of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany graciously handed over the food gathered on Sunday, October 29th at ShopRite to Michele Picone, the Director of Health and Human Services for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany not only gathered 15 full shopping carts of food but also collected hundreds of dollars in ShopRite gift cards and $355.00 in cash to support the Parsippany Food Pantry.

Students from the Key Clubs of Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School to conduct the food collection

In a joint community effort, members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, including Carol Teisi, Doreen Brennan, Judi Chase, Susan Slaughter, and Marie Abahoonie, joined forces with 19 students from the Key Clubs of Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School to conduct the food collection.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany members, including Doreen Brennan and President Carol Tiesi, receive consistent support from Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, who is known for his ongoing endorsement of the Kiwanis Club’s community service initiatives.

Their collaborative endeavor not only symbolized the spirit of service and camaraderie but also underscored the impact that organizations and youth can make when they come together for a common cause. The successful food drive is a testament to their dedication and the collective commitment of the local clubs to address food insecurity in their community.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Achieves Remarkable Feat with Donation of 15 Full Shopping Carts to Local Food Pantry
Donations Fill Jeep Grand Cherokee and Other Vehicles for Delivery to Parsippany Food Pantry by Local Club

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany extends heartfelt gratitude to ShopRite of Parsippany for providing a space for their food collection efforts. Marking their calendar for continued community support, the club is set to host another food collection event on Sunday, December 3 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Man Sentenced for Role in Stealing Numerous Firearms

Frank L. Cahill
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Man Sentenced for Role in Stealing Numerous Firearms

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Sheriff James Gannon, and Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano confirmed that Luis Martinez, 35, formerly of Newark, has been sentenced to 11 years in New Jersey State Prison for the theft and possession of numerous firearms.

On January 6, 2023, Martinez and others burglarized the FSS Armory store in the Pine Brook section of Montville and stole approximately 20 guns from the business. Martinez was identified as a suspect through a combination of law enforcement efforts, which included electronic surveillance, DNA, and other technological capabilities.

During Martinez’s guilty plea on October 13, presided over by the Honorable Claudia Jones, J.S.C., Martinez admitted to arriving at FSS Armory in a stolen motor vehicle during the early morning hours of January 6. Martinez admitted that he and others broke into the gun store, stole the guns, and then loaded the guns into the trunk of the stolen vehicle and fled the area.

On October 27, the Honorable Claudia Jones, J.S.C., sentenced Martinez to 11 years in prison, 5 1/2 years of which he must serve before becoming eligible for parole.

Senior Assistant Prosecutor Erin Callahan represented the State at sentencing.

On September 14, Leila Acevedo was identified and charged as part of the investigation. Acevedo was charged with conspiracy, burglary, and gun possession charges. The investigation remains ongoing to identify three other co-conspirators who were present but who have yet to be identified.

Prosecutor Carroll thanks the tireless efforts of law enforcement, which continues to this day, and specifically acknowledges the efforts of Montville Detective Keith Donnelly, detectives from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office’s Intelligence Unit, special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office’s Crime Scene Investigation Unit who all contributed to the successful investigation and prosecution of this incident.

Prosecutor Carroll said, “I am joined by Chief McNally, Chief Caggiano, and Sheriff Gannon in stating that the burglary of a firearms store is a priority for all law enforcement as preventing firearms from falling into the hands of criminals is an absolute necessity for protecting our citizens from the later use of stolen deadly weapons to commit other crimes. This investigation was tenaciously pursued by the involved Local, County, and Federal law enforcement, and we will continue our coordinated efforts to locate all of the involved subjects.”

County College of Morris to hold Events to Celebrate Veterans

Frank L. Cahill
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County College of Morris to hold Events to Celebrate Veterans

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM), in collaboration with local, state and federal organizations, has announced two events on campus this month to celebrate veterans.

The first, a Veterans Resource Event, is scheduled for Wednesday, November 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and includes 20 organizations providing services and programs available for veterans.

This informal, educational opportunity provides a venue for discussion with Atlantic Health, Community Hope, the Department of Aging, the Mental Health Association, Morris County Veterans Services Office, New Jersey Department of Labor & Work Force Development, New Jersey Department of Military Affairs, New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Welcome Vets of New Jersey and many more.

A Program in Tribute to our Veterans will be held on Thursday, November 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., to honor their veterans’ service.

This presentation features a historical perspective given by Geroge A. Roth, FC, SO-AS/CS/IS, FSO-AS/CS/DV/IS/NS/PB/PE Division 15, Flotilla 10, 5NR U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and keynote speaker Lt. Col. Alexander D. Burgos, Commander, U.S. Army Garrison Picatinny Arsenal, plus a video montage and musical tributes to all military branches by the CCM Chamber Choir

The Veterans Resource Event on November 8 will be held in the Student Community Center, Davidson Rooms, and the Program in Tribute to our Veterans on November 9 will be held in Dragonetti Auditorium, on CCM’s campus at 214 Center Grove Road, in Randolph Township. Parking is in Lot #6.

Pre-registration is not required. For more information, call (973) 328-5054 or email cmcardle@ccm.edu.

CCM currently offers free training for veterans and their families in advanced manufacturing. To learn more about the college’s non-credit and for-credit, certificate and associate degree programs, along with funding opportunities for veterans and their families click here.

Norwescap’s Morris County Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Art Show and Awards Ceremony

Frank L. Cahill
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Norwescap’s Morris County Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Art Show and Awards Ceremony

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming and Norwescap held the 2023 Morris County Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Art Show and Awards Ceremony earlier this week at the Marion E. Sally Building on Clyde Potts Drive in Morristown, showcasing artwork from many local talents.

The 16th annual event, and the first one in person since the pandemic, received 21 submissions representing a vast array of creativity from within five different art categories: Acrylic Painting, Photography, Mixed Media, Watercolor, and Drawing.

In each category, winners selected for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards were presented satin ribbons and generous gift bundles of art supplies. Everyone who participated received public acknowledgment with a certificate of recognition for their artwork.

“During October, the County Commissioners observed and celebrated Arts & Humanities Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month by publicly presenting framed proclamations to several local organizations. This art show was another way to continue these community celebrations as we recognize the contributions and talents of our senior and special needs neighbors,” said Morris County Commissioner Deb Smith.

The judges for the event were Dr. Edward Ramirez, Chief Program Officer of Norwescap, Rochelle Ostenfeld, Norwescap’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Manager, and Xavier Powell, owner of operations and curation for Gallery X in West Palm Beach, Florida.

During the Awards Ceremony, Mark Valli, CEO of Norwescap, took the stage to express his gratitude and appreciation, emphasizing the importance of displaying the “untapped talent of Morris County.” He highlighted Norwescap’s extensive services, which include early childhood programs, employment services, nutrition and food security initiatives, housing and community development, and volunteer and civic engagement programs, such as the Norwescap RSVP program.

“We’re all born artists. We’re all born to express ourselves. We all have it in us, and art is a way to draw that out… There is a ton of talent in our senior population and those with disabilities. Art is a way to bring us together,” said Valli.

“We at Norwescap hope that with today’s program, we might be reaching individuals that we are serving in our other programs in a way that is expressive, a way that is beautiful and that builds strong community,” he added. “That is why art is important. That is why Norwescap is doing this work with the county, and we are grateful to be a part of this community.”

The winners in each category included:

  • In Acrylic Painting, Ismael Villavvubla won 1st place for his piece entitled “Campout.” Holly Hunter came in 2nd place for “Reflections Past” and Elizabeth Bain earned 3rd place for “Isolation.”
  • In Photography, Tom Cassidy was the 1st place winner for “Sole Pole with Clouds,” Patricia Anderson came in 2nd place for “Ocean Breeze” and Wilma S. Pickell in 3rd place for “Low Tide Cape Cod.”
  • In the Mixed Media category, 1st place went to Barbra Elliot for “Butterflies,” 2nd place to Ian Crowe for “Ladybugs in Flowers Spring,” and 3rd place to J.R. Schomp for “Sea Life.”
  • In Watercolor, MaryAnn Tunstead won 1st place with her artwork titled “A River Runs Through It.”
  • In the Drawing category, Dee DeJulio claimed 1st place for her piece, “Best Buddies.”

After the awards ceremony, everyone gathered for a luncheon provided by The Fruited Plain, a local caterer in Parsippany-Troy Hills.

The event was a true celebration of art, community, and the incredible talent of Morris County’s seniors and individuals with disabilities. Each year, the County Commissioners approve roughly $5,000 through a grant in aid to fund the art program.

Morris County congratulates all the participants and thanks the dedicated team from Norwescap who worked behind the scenes tirelessly to make this event a reality.

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