MORRIS COUNTY — Join the County College of Morris (CCM) Foundation and champion students’ aspirations for a prosperous future. This year’s CCM Foundation Golf Classic is scheduled for Monday, October 16, at Florham Park’s Brooklake Country Club.
Enjoy a BBQ lunch, golfing all day, a cocktail reception with an open bar, and a sumptuous buffet dinner. Golfing is priced at $375 per person.
If you’re only attending the reception, dinner, and program, it’s $150. Don’t miss out on raffle prizes available for purchase, and every golfer will be gifted a special token of appreciation. The event’s proceeds will bolster the college’s scholarship initiatives, particularly emphasizing support for student-athletes and athletic programs.
Activities kick off with an 11:00 a.m. registration, followed by lunch, and golfing commences at 12:30 p.m. Evening celebrations, inclusive of the cocktail reception and award ceremony, start at 5:00 p.m.
Corporate teams, sponsors, and individual players are eagerly invited. To learn more or register, dial (973) 328-5060 or click here.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Police Chief Richard Pantina confirmed the arrest of John R. Connelly, 36, of Boonton Township, in connection with an assault on a motorist and a Parsippany Police Department Crossing Guard.
On Thursday, September 14 at 3:10 p.m. the Parsippany Police Department’s Communication Center received multiple 911 phone calls reporting a motor vehicle crash involving a pickup truck and a motorcycle at the intersection of Route 202 and Brooklawn Drive.
When officers arrived on scene, they were advised that the 58-year-old motorcycle driver was stopped on Route 202 so the on-duty Parsippany Police Department Crossing Guard could safely cross the children.
The defendant, John Connelly, allegedly stopped his pickup truck behind the motorcycle driver and got out of his vehicle.
At this time, it was reported that he began to physically assault the motorcycle driver. According to reports, the 76-year-old Crossing Guard attempted to intervene and was allegedly shoved to the ground by the defendant.
The defendant then continued to assault the motorcycle driver until other motorists intervened. The defendant allegedly then fled the scene in his truck.
As a result of the investigation, the Morris Plains Police Department was able to locate and stop the accused a short time later. He was placed under arrest and charged on a summons complaint with Aggravated Assault, a crime of the third degree, and Simple Assault, a disorderly persons offense. He was released on his own recognizance.
If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department at (973) 263-4300.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — An unexpected incident at the Walmart premises in Hanover Township led to an arrest on August 23. Hanover Township Police Officer Brandon Law was summoned to the rear of the Walmart store due to reports of a fire in the woods.
On reaching the location, Officer Law noticed Mr. Larry Southerland, 39, of Parsippany, in the process of extinguishing a flaming shopping cart.
After the fire was successfully put out, Officer Law proceeded to investigate the situation. This resulted in the discovery of drug paraphernalia in Mr. Southerland’s possession. Further checks also revealed an active warrant against him.
Consequently, Mr. Southerland was arrested and charged with possession of CDS (Controlled Dangerous Substance) paraphernalia. He has since been released and awaits his forthcoming court appearance.
The Hanover Township Police Department encourages the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities. Ensuring the safety and well-being of the community remains the department’s top priority.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — In commemoration of its 60th anniversary, the First Baptist Community Church of Parsippany has given back to the community in a notable way. Accepting the challenge, the congregation amassed 60 bags of non-perishable food items, ultimately surpassing their goal by four bags. These were promptly delivered to the town’s Food Pantry.
The initiative took place recently, a time when Pastor Stacie Turk noted that the pantry’s shelves were nearing depletion. “Our objective was to address this need and embody the very essence of our community-driven spirit, especially during such a landmark year for our church,” stated Pastor Turk.
The church’s commitment to the Food Pantry isn’t limited to this single gesture. As a part of Panera’s Dough Nation Program, they have consistently been delivering bread to the pantry every week, thereby ensuring a steady flow of essential food items for those in need.
Reaching and surpassing the goal set for the 60th-anniversary challenge stands as a testament to the congregation’s unwavering commitment to serving their community. “We’re a tight-knit, multi-ethnic group with a shared love for Jesus and compassion for others. The dedication and generosity shown by our church family in this endeavor is a reflection of the values we’ve upheld for six decades,” remarked Pastor Stacie.
Located at 800 Vail Road in Parsippany, the First Baptist Community Church welcomes everyone to partake in its services. Under the spiritual guidance of Rev. Dr. Stacie Turk, worship services are held in their Sanctuary every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. As an American Baptist Church, all are invited to join, celebrate, and participate in the church’s enduring legacy of faith and community service.
PARSIPPANY — Cassandra Cogan, an accomplished graduate from Parsippany High School (Class of 2019) and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Class of 2023), has achieved another significant academic milestone. She has been awarded the distinguished Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, granting her a position in the globally renowned “European Master in Global Studies” (EMGS) program.
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, funded by the European Union, presents a golden opportunity for gifted students from across the world. With a fiercely competitive selection process, only between 3-5% of all international applicants are granted scholarships. This fully-funded scholarship covers both tuition and living expenses. Notably, only three students from the United States are offered admission to the EMGS program annually, and Cassandra has secured her position as one of the recipients for 2023.
EMGS demands its scholars to undertake courses at two eminent European universities, dedicating an academic year to each. The program boasts an impressive consortium of member institutions such as Leipzig University, London School of Economics and Political Science, University of Vienna, University of Wrocław, Roskilde University, and Ghent University. These institutions offer a diverse spectrum of research specializations centered around international relations and global challenges. In addition to European universities, scholars can also choose to immerse in a semester of study at affiliated non-European institutions. This includes esteemed universities such as Dalhousie University, Macquarie University, Addis Ababa University, and the University of Yaoundé I.
Cassandra is poised to commence her academic journey at the University of Wrocław in Poland this September. After a year of rigorous study, she will then move to Roskilde University in Denmark, where she is anticipated to complete her Master’s in June 2025.
This accomplishment showcases Cassandra’s unwavering dedication to academic excellence and her passion for global studies. We congratulate her on this outstanding achievement and wish her the best in her future endeavors.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners tonight reviewed and decided to move forward with an updated exterior design proposal for a new courthouse slated for a county-owned parcel on Schuyler Place in Morristown.
The design was presented by AECOM, the architects contracted for the project, following a June 14, 2023 Commissioner work session meeting at which some Commissioners suggested changes to the existing design. Roger Lichtman, Lisa Tsang and Francis Cooke of the Clifton-based AECOM presented the updated design proposal tonight after it was reviewed and cleared by a three-member Courthouse Committee of the Board of Commissioners.
“This final design is the result collaboration and input from all the stakeholders on this project. We value AECOM’s approach in working with the county to ensure we landed on an exterior design that is timeless in terms of function and aesthetics,” said Commissioner Stephen Shaw, Chairman of the Courthouse Committee.
Commissioners Deborah Smith and Douglas Cabana also serve on the Committee.
Among those who attended the meeting tonight were Sheriff James Gannon, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Superior Court Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz of the Morris/Sussex Court Vicinage, Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty and Morristown Business Administrator Jillian Barrick.
The design involves an approximately 119,000-square-foot project offering eight new courtrooms, a jury assembly room, meeting rooms, security areas and a secured, three-story glass entrance foyer.
The overall project, pared down from one originally presented prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, will meet the modern safety, security and space needs required to properly support the county’s criminal Superior Court operations. The new building will include eight floors constructed on a county parking lot next to the existing Morris County Administration & Records Building.
PROJECT BACKGROUND
Providing adequate court facilities and securing those facilities are the sole responsibility of each respective county in New Jersey. To assess those needs, the county commissioned a Space Needs and Facilities Assessment in 2017.
That assessment, completed in 2018, identified a significant shortfall in criminal, family and civil court facilities, and detailed the outdated conditions in the existing courthouse complex, which includes the historic courthouse along Washington Street that was originally constructed in 1827.
That building was augmented three times before 1900, according to Judge Minkowitz, noting other portions were added in the 1950s and 1970s. The complex, situated along Washington Street between Court Street and Western Avenue, will be preserved, but is not suitable to continue most court operations.
The County Commissioners, then known as Freeholders, held public hearings prior to their unanimous vote to adopt two capital ordinances in late 2018 to fund the design phases of a new courthouse along Schuyler Place. Balancing the needs of the court system with the financial concerns of county taxpayers has continued throughout the process and involved the county government administration, Commissions, members of the judiciary, and the Sheriff’s Office.
PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 demonstrated their dedication to the community by purchasing gift cards valued at over $3,000 from Target and Walmart. These cards aim to aid local families in acquiring essential back-to-school supplies, clothing, and other necessities.
Lodge 2561, rooted in the local community, stands as an affiliated chapter of the Supreme Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Italy in America. This venerable organization, established in 1905 in Little Italy, NYC, started with the noble cause of helping Italian immigrants integrate into their new homeland. Today, it proudly boasts over 600,000 members and advocates throughout the nation.
The Morris County Lodge is one of the 29 Lodges in New Jersey, functioning as a non-profit entity. Its commitment shines through its contributions, donating thousands to valuable local charities and aiding families in need. Their philanthropic endeavors extend to supporting The Parsippany Food Pantry, St. Peter’s Church, St. Ann’s Church, the Battered Woman’s Shelter of Morris County, High School Scholarships, The Valerie Fund, Parsippany Day Care Center, Cooley’s Anemia, St. Jude’s, and more. Regular purchases of gift cards from places like Shop Rite and Walmart further underscore their mission to uplift the needy. Additionally, the lodge, with its talented Italian chefs, takes pride in hosting several delectable Italian dinners annually, all in the spirit of supporting local initiatives.
With around 100 civic-minded members, Lodge 2561 convenes on the fourth Wednesday of each month at a local eatery. These meetings focus on lodge activities, upcoming charity ventures, and the ever-evolving needs of the community.
Their National Headquarters, stationed near Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., is tasked with preserving Italian culture in America. At the same time, it seeks out solutions to contemporary challenges faced by Italian Americans. Through its charitable division, the organization has channeled more than $164 million into scholarships, medical research, cultural conservation, disaster aid, and other worthy causes.
To learn more about Lodge 2561 and their upcoming events, visit their website by clicking here or “Like” their Facebook page at Order Sons of Italy in America ~ Lodge 2561.
PARSIPPANY — On Monday, September 11, the Parsippany-Troy Hills community gathered at the 9/11 Memorial Monument outside the Municipal Building to mark the 22nd anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11. Under the leadership of Mayor James R. Barberio and in collaboration with the Parsippany Interfaith Council, a poignant ceremony was held in memory of those who lost their lives.
Township Officials and spiritual leaders united in reflection, honoring those who fell on that tragic day. Michael dePierro, Council Vice President, read aloud the names of the community’s own: Martin Boryczewki, Antoinette Duger, Jason Kyle Jacobs, Michael Pescherine, Thomas H. Polhemus, Maria Theresa Santillan, and Michael C. Sorresse. The gathering was graced with soul-stirring prayers from local clergy and the presentation of a ceremonial wreath by the VFW members.
The emotional apex of the event was the reading of the names of the cherished Parsippany-Troy Hills inhabitants, which was followed by a silent reflection.
The event began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council President Loretta Gragnani, and Michelle Musolino-Roberts singing the National Anthem. Rabbi Moshe Rudin of Temple Adath Shalom offered the invocation, while Mayor James Barberio shared opening remarks.
Loretta Viglione, a Parsippany local, read a moving poem titled “Poem and Reflections of 9/11”, dedicated to her brother Tommy Sabella
Loretta Viglione, a Parsippany resident, read a moving poem titled “Poem and Reflections of 9/11”, dedicated to her brother Tommy Sabella. Tommy, part of Engine 22 and Ladder Company 13, courageously responded to the Twin Towers attack. His team, known as the Yorkville 9, tragically perished when Tower I collapsed during their second rescue mission.
Jerry Moses, an eyewitness of 9/11, shared his personal reflections on the day. The ceremony’s concluding moments were marked by a performance of Taps by Dominick Caponegro, Parsippany High School Drum Major, and a benediction by Deacon Leo Deo from St. Ann’s RC Church.
“Americans saw evil that day and it rocked the foundation of our nation to its core,” said Mayor Barberio. “Although our foundation may have sustained some damage, it did not damage the steel backbone of America. If anything, we emerged stronger, smarter, and more resilient than before. We will never forget.”
In unity and remembrance, the Parsippany-Troy Hills community looked back on the past while holding onto hope and resilience for the future.
MORRIS COUNTY — Following an inquiry into a deer’s demise due to a dart, Morris Township authorities identified a Morristown man facing charges related to unlawful weapon possession, creating hazardous conditions, and weapon discharge, all in violation of a local ordinance.
Jalen O’Neal, 26, was charged last week and released pending a court hearing, as stated by Township Police Capt. James Perruso. The incident was reported by a caller who discovered a deceased deer with an orange dart in it near Speedwell Avenue and Mill Street on the morning of August 22.
Perruso noted, “The investigation confirmed that the deer was indeed struck with a dart, and a second dart was found nearby. Further examination revealed that the ‘dart’ was a projectile from a ‘blow dart’ type weapon.”
Authorities encourage anyone with additional information to reach out to Detective Kevin Yarzab at (973) 326-7433 or the Morris Township Police Detective Bureau at (973) 326-7480.
Perruso emphasized the importance of residents remaining vigilant and promptly reporting any suspicious activities.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the actors are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MORRIS COUNTY — The weather held as first responders, public officials, and residents gathered under cloudy skies Sunday evening for Morris County’s Annual 9/11 Remembrance ceremony in observance of the 22nd Anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
First responders and officials head up to the ceremony on West Hanover Avenue under a giant American flag.
People gathered around the Morris County 9/11 Memorial in Parsippany Township while the sounds of a classical guitar and flute, played by Darren O’Neill and Patricia Lazzara, filled the air. At 5:55 p.m. a color guard of police, fire and rescue, and emergency personnel began marching up West Hanover Avenue led by flag bearer Kevin Dunn, Deputy Fire Chief of the Randolph Fire Dept. Included in the procession were members of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), the Police Pipes and Drums of Morris County, the U.S. Naval Cadet Sea Corps of Picatinny Arsenal, and first responder agencies from throughout Morris County.
Keynote speaker Nick De Gregorio, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, raised and lowered the flag at the memorial with MCSO Capt. Walter Rawa, as U.S. Reps Mikie Sherrill and Tom Kean placed bouquets of red, white, and blue flowers. Deputy Fire Chief Dunn conducted the pledge of allegiance, while the Morris Choral Society sang the national anthem and Rev. Herman Scott read a special invocation.
“Our guest speaker could have taken a familiar, safe path in life. Instead, inspired by the events of 9/11 and knowing the challenges our country would face he traveled a difficult path. Becoming a Marine Corps infantry officer, deploying four times, and giving a decade of his life in service to our country,” said Morris County Commissioner Director John Krickus as he opened the ceremony.
Major De Gregorio, who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, was 16 years old and sitting in a New Jersey classroom when the terrorist attacks unfolded just 12 miles away. The events inspired him to enlist in the Marines after high school, and he was deployed four times into combat during his nine years of service.
“My mother and I walked up to the lookout point in our town to bear witness to the New York City skyline. What we found was much more than a landscape of wreckage and black smoke. Dozens of people were already there. They stood in tearful silence, acknowledging us with head nods as we all peered out to see what we did not want to see,” stated De Gregorio.
“Those of us on that lookout point went up there thinking we were searching for a glimpse of the aftermath, but I think we came back down realizing that what we had really been searching for was each other,” he added.
Parsippany resident Loretta Viglione read a poem written about her brother Tommy Sabella, who perished responding to the attacks. His crew, Engine 22, Ladder Company 13, made the first rescue trip to the Twin Towers. When he returned for a second rescue trip, Tower I collapsed, and the 44-year-old firefighter never made it out. He was among a group of firefighters from that team who died and were later designated the Yorkville 9 from the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
The ceremony included a candle-lighting vigil, which was conducted with a musical accompaniment: “The Last Rose of Summer,” a poem written by Irish poet Thomas Moore sung to the tune of a traditional Irish ballad.
Candles in hand, ceremony participants listen to the names of the lost being read.
“The poem laments the waning days of Summer, but touches more deeply on the importance of love in our lives and the loss of that love,” stated Commissioner Tayfun Selen as candles were being lit.
In keeping with Morris County’s 9/11 ceremony tradition, the names of each of the 64 people from Morris County who died in the attacks were read aloud, as a bell was struck by Morris County Fire Marshal James Davidson. The Morris County residents were among 2,977 people killed on 9/11, and all the victims’ names are etched into the Morris County Memorial.
The ceremony included a rendition of Amazing Grace, a 21-gun salute, and ended with Taps being played by Larry Schillings, N.J. State Director of Bugles Across America.
“We all, as Americans, must embrace our common identity more now than ever before. Remember, the cowardly acts that bring us together here, year after year, were attacks on all Americans and the free society by which we pursue our different paths in life to achieve our different goals,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith, in closing the ceremony.
Raindrops started to fall, just as the ceremony concluded.
Morris County thanks all the participants and residents who make the 9/11 ceremony possible each year. The dedicated support of our community members helps ensure the victims’ names always live on, and that we never forget the tragic events that occurred on that fateful day in our nation’s history 22 years ago.
First responders and cadets encircle the Morris County 9/11 Memorial during the ceremony.
