MORRIS COUNTY — Gubernatorial candidates Republican State Senator Jon Bramnick and Democrat former Senate President Steve Sweeney today released the following statement in response to the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.

“The attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump this weekend is a stark reminder of the need for civility in our political discourse. Disagreement is a foundation of our cherished political system, but the current environment in which political opponents are treated as enemies breeds extremism and political violence. We condemn this weekend’s horrific events and urge all residents and elected leaders to treat each other with civility and respect.”

PARSIPPANY — Community Hope, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with severe mental health diagnoses and homeless veterans and their families, has been awarded a $50,000 grant from Bank of America. This grant will enable Community Hope to continue providing essential services such as shelter, food, clothing, and medicine to those in need while promoting economic mobility in New Jersey.

• The need for essential services, especially shelter for unhoused veterans, increased significantly after the expiration of the CARES Act.
• Community Hope, founded in 1985, has provided housing and support services for nearly 40 years, including the 95-bed Hope for Veterans Program and the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program.
• The grant will help Community Hope meet current demands and prepare for future needs.
  
  Carmine V. Deo, CEO of Community Hope, said, “We are thrilled to receive this award from Bank of America. The Foundation’s generosity will allow us to continue providing essential services to some of New Jersey communities’ most at-risk and underserved members.” President of Bank of America New Jersey, Alberto Garofalo, said, “Access to safe and suitable housing is crucial for health, education, and employment opportunities. With partners like Community Hope, we can provide housing and necessary support services to individuals with mental illness and veterans.”

Community Hope provides housing and support services to thousands of veterans, veteran families, active military members, and people with mental illness each year. Since 1985, it has enabled thousands to recover from mental illness, homelessness, substance use, and poverty.

Bank of America is a global financial institution that provides banking, investing, asset management, and other financial services to individual consumers, businesses, and corporations. It serves approximately 69 million clients in the United States and operates in over 35 countries.

Community Hope is located at 959 Route 46 East, Suite 402, Parsippany.

MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey High School Republican (NJHSREPS) Vice Chairman Chris Ilic recently met with Congressman Jeff Van Drew in Washington, D.C., to discuss legislative initiatives involving the NJHSREPS.

In a bipartisan effort, the New Jersey High School Republicans and New Jersey High School Democrats introduced the Involve Our Youth Act at the Trenton Statehouse. In January, this bill passed both the Assembly and Senate and was signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy. The legislation aims to enhance youth civic participation across New Jersey, allowing students one excused absence per school year to attend civic events.

The New Jersey High School Republicans are developing another bill focused on youth military education, which they hope to introduce soon to the New Jersey Legislature.

Founded in January 2021, the New Jersey High School Republicans (NJHSREPS) serve as the official youth auxiliary of the NJGOP. Their mission is to unite and mobilize teens interested in political advocacy and making a difference. NJHSREPS has gained recognition for its public policy and campaign efforts throughout the state.

For more information, visit their website: www.njhsreps.org.

NJHSREPS is also set to host a Young Conservative Brunch on Friday, July 26th, at the Stage House Tavern in Somerset, featuring speakers such as Jack Ciattarelli and Bill Spadea.

PARSIPPANY — On Tuesday, July 9, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio was at the scene of a horrific accident on Littleton Road, and was heartbroken over this tragedy where our community experienced the senseless loss of a child’s life due to a motor vehicle crash.  In the wake of recent fatalities on State and County roads here in Parsippany, I am calling for action from the NJDOT to increase pedestrian safety and respond with a fix on their streets.  I’m asking for the county’s help and commitment to slow down vehicles and reduce the overall risk to our residents and visitors on their roads.

I have spoken with Chief Pantina to implement aggressive action to slow cars down on
Parsippany roads and to be relentless in enforcing the laws to save lives and protect our
community. Safety cannot take a back seat. The Parsippany Police Department will immediately begin expanded enforcement against drivers who fail to recognize the importance of pedestrians and bicyclists on our streets. I have spoken with our Engineering department to prioritize pedestrians alongside cars for all ongoing and future road projects. Instead of just focusing on pavement condition and paving the street in kind, they will layer in safety improvements for all resurfacing projects.

I am truly saddened by the unnecessary loss of a community member last night, and my heart goes out to his family.

This article was written by Mayor James Barberio.

MORRIS COUNTY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) announced the launch of the application process for students from New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District seeking to be nominated for a U.S. military service academy this coming year.

“I am so proud of the men and women from my district considering careers in military service. As a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, I know our nation’s service academies provide world-class academics and leadership training that is second to none. There is no better place than one of the U.S. military academies for New Jersey students interested in a career as a military officer,” said Rep. Sherrill.

The application process for a Service Academy nomination is currently open and the deadline to submit your application is October 24, 2024. 

The nomination application is open to high school seniors applying to the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, as well as college students looking to transfer into one of the Academies. Students seeking an appointment to one of these institutions must receive a nomination to be appointed to attend. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a Congressional nomination.

The Congresswoman can only offer a limited number of nominations yearly, and the nomination process is highly competitive. Furthermore, only a fraction of nominated students ultimately receive an appointment to attend an Academy.  

Due to the high number of qualified applicants, the Congresswoman has a competitive application process that considers the academic, athletic, extracurricular activities, and community involvement of candidates who apply. In addition, every candidate is interviewed by Congresswoman Sherrill’s Academy Nomination Board, which consists of Academy alumni, military veterans, and civic leaders from the community.

Click here for more information and to complete an application.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Rep. Sherrill’s office at (973) 526-5668 or email the NJ-11 Academy Nomination Coordinator at willy.tolba@mail.house.gov.

MORRIS COUNTY — Justin Strickland, Democratic candidate for Morris County Commissioner, announces the endorsement of VoteVets – the largest progressive group of veterans in America.

Strickland is a combat war veteran who served on the front lines in Iraq, earning a Bronze Star. As a civilian, he also served in the Pentagon and earned the Office of the Secretary of Defense Outstanding Achievement Award for his work in Afghanistan.

“Thank you so much to Vote Vets for the endorsement – it means so much to me to have the support of an organization that shares my values, especially on the issues that impact troops, veterans, and their families here in Morris County,” Strickland says.

After decades of a one-party Morris County Board of Commissioners, Strickland, Jonathan Sackett, and Bud Ravitz are ready to revitalize the county with a focus on your voice: the voices that have been asking for a new strategy to combat overdevelopment and better government transparency. 

This team of experienced elected officials will always show up for the community. They’ll prioritize community engagement, always seeking to save taxpayer dollars with an eye toward shared services. They know how to make improvements for more livable communities – they’ve done it in their towns and can do it for the whole county. 

To learn more, click here.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Democratic Committee highlights three fearless and trailblazing local elected officials recently honored for their outstanding service.

These revolutionary women — Former Morris Township Mayor Cathy Wilson, Boonton Town Councilwoman Marie DeVenezia, and Parsippany Councilwoman Judy Hernandez – were selected for new awards to honor their longtime leadership and fighting spirit.

In recognizing the honorees, Chairwoman Amalia Duarte said, “These are leaders with a vision, who are relentless and don’t back down. They fought against the odds to win elections.”

The women were honored at the Morris County Campaign Kickoff & Awards Night on June 20. It started with Morris Township Mayor Donna Guariglia presenting the first “Cathy Wilson Leadership Award.”

Mayor Guariglia described Wilson’s record of breakthrough initiatives. Wilson was primarily responsible for transforming the Morris Township Committee from all-Republican to entirely Democrat. She became the first Democratic woman deputy mayor and mayor.

Mayor Guariglia called up former Mayor Wilson to open an envelope revealing the winner: a very shocked Cathy Wilson!

Next, John Holly, a Boonton attorney running for County Surrogate, read a touching introduction for the new “Dr. Edina Renfro-Michel Community Service Award.” This award recognizes Councilwoman Renfro-Michel, who passed away last year after a long battle with cancer. “Her town of Boonton was what she cared about, and her fingerprints are on all over projects that continue to this day,” said Holly.

The award was given to a surprised and emotional Councilwoman, Marie DeVenezia. “Marie is exactly what you’d want in a Council Member,” said Holly. “She is direct — straightforward — honest, dedicated and thoughtful. She carefully considers each action — not for how it would benefit her personally or her election prospects — but for how it will benefit the town.”

Finally, Chairwoman Duarte revealed the winner of the first “Sandi Mayer Fearless Leadership Award” in honor of the late Morristown council president, who passed away in April.

“This winner, like Sandi, is badass, fearless, compassionate, and a loyal friend to many,” said Chairwoman Duarte. “The honoree has been involved with Morris County politics since President Obama’s years. She has volunteered on local boards and with nonprofits for many years. She is passionate about the environment and led her community’s green team, advocating for sustainable policies.”

“Running for office is never easy, and this honoree ran four times, finally winning a local council seat last year by just a handful of votes,” said Chairwoman Duarte.

The Morris County Democratic Committee congratulates award winners Parsippany Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, former Morris Township Mayor Cathy Wilson, and Boonton Councilwoman Marie DeVenezia for all their achievements.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, July 9, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will occur in the Council Chambers at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard within the Parsippany Municipal Building.

Formal action may or may not be taken.

Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for the meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request an auxiliary aid.

Click here to download the agenda.

Click here for the 2024 calendar.

Mayor James Barberio
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
Councilman Matt McGrath
Councilwoman Judy Hernandez

MORRIS COUNTY — Sheriff James M. Gannon and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office want the public to have a safe summer, so they’ve compiled some helpful information to help you have a great season.

“School is out, and it is time to enjoy summer fun. We must all stay safe this season,” said Sheriff James M. Gannon.  “I can assure everyone the Morris County Sheriff’s Office is ready and actively doing our part to ensure you get the most out of every moment spent with family and friends. Let’s do so in the safest way possible.”

Burglary Prevention and Car Theft Prevention

This year, the Morris County Sheriff’s Crime Scene Investigation Section responded to many motor vehicle burglaries and thefts. If you plan to travel, the Crime Scene Investigation Section suggests using the following tips:

• Contact your local police department to inquire about property checks.
• Be aware of what you post on social media, including photos and where you “check-in.” This will alert followers that you are on vacation.
• Make sure all doors and windows are locked.
• Make your residence look occupied in your absence. Set indoor and outdoor lights on timers, use motion sensors, and have your mail and newspapers collected.
• Do not have any home improvements done on your house while you are away.
• Invest in a camera system or alarm company for home surveillance. There are reasonably priced systems available.
• Lock valuable and important items in a safe place only you would know.
• Consider having a friend or family member check on the house.
• If vehicles are in the driveway, ensure they are locked, and the garage door opener is not in the car.

Protect Your Vehicle

• Stolen vehicles and car burglaries have affected many Morris County residents. Once someone accesses your vehicle, you can become a victim of additional crimes, such as home burglaries via garage door openers or identity theft if purses and wallets are left in vehicles. Help protect yourself by following these tips:
• Lock your vehicle and remove the key fob.
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle.
• Protect your identity and accounts by removing purses, wallets, and checkbooks from your vehicle.
• Contact your local Police Department to report any suspicious individuals or vehicles in your neighborhood.

Fireworks Safety

• Please remember that fireworks can be dangerous and should best be enjoyed by attending professional fireworks displays. However, if you are using fireworks, please review the laws to ensure you adhere to regulations. Legal fireworks can cause severe injury and property damage. Be cautious of your surroundings and courteous to your neighbors. Drink responsibly. Always supervise children, especially around sparklers. Most of all, have fun and enjoy the festivities. A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities.
• Wear safety glasses when using fireworks.
• Use legal fireworks in a clear outdoor area, away from people, buildings, and bushes.
• Never try to make your own fireworks.
• Be careful with sparklers! They burn at approximately 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt glass. They can ignite clothing and burn hands and feet. A fun alternative is to use glow sticks instead. Be prepared for accidents:
• Have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher accessible.
• If injury occurs, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. Do not touch or rub an eye injury as this may cause more damage.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them and placing them in a metal trash can away from a building until the next day.

• Attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.
• Do not pick up pieces of fireworks after an event.
• Do not bring pets to fireworks displays to avoid exposure to the sound.
• Make sure your pet has an identification tag in case it runs away.

Safe Boating Tips

• The Morris County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol Unit works in conjunction with the New Jersey State Police patrolling the waters of Lake Hopatcong from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year. Boating accidents can be prevented by following these safety rules:
• The operator must have an operator license, valid registration and boating safety certificate in possession.
• Have personal flotation devices (PFD) available for all passengers on board. Children 12 and under must be wearing PFDs while the vessel is moving.
• A throwable seat cushion or ring buoy must be available.
• The vessel must be equipped with an adequate horn or whistle and approved fire extinguisher.
• Navigation lights must be on between sunset and sunrise.
• Be aware of your swimming capability.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Check local weather conditions before departure.
• Use common sense – operate at a safe speed, stay alert and be respectful of navigational aids and other boaters.

Summer Grilling Safety Tips

• Always place your grill well away from home structures, deck railings, and away from overhanging branches.
• Before using a gas grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line to be sure it’s not leaking and is working properly.
• Regularly cleaning your grill can prevent dangerous flare-ups.
• Grills should be monitored when in use.
• Use long-handled grilling tools to give the chef plenty of clearance from heat and flames.

For more information on the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, please visit www.sheriff.morriscountynj.gov

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners was asked to approve $3.6 million in grants from the county’s Preservation Trust Fund to help restore, preserve, and further protect 21 historic sites in 16 towns across Morris County. 

More than half the funding recommended by the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund Review Board, about 77 percent, is directed toward construction grants for 12 of the projects. Roughly 23 percent is recommended for non-construction activity at nine other historic sites. Those grants would support design and specification work for future construction on four sites, preservation planning for two sites, a historic landscape plan for one site, assist with the acquisition of one site, and fund the research and development necessary to submit another site for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places.

“Taxpayers have supported our historic preservation program for more than 20 years. While the funding preserves our county’s unique heritage by restoring and protecting the fabric of our history, it also supports economic development, tourism, and educational opportunities that enhance the overall quality of life of our communities,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw liaison to the Historic Preservation Trust Fund Review Board.

“As Morris County prepares to host the 250th Anniversary of our nation’s independence in 2026, many of the 123 funded historic sites will be on display for visitors to appreciate,” he added.

Jefferson Township has been recommended to receive a grant for the first time for the Chamberlain House. Built in the 1870s in the Second Empire architectural style, the building was used as a library from the 1960s until 1982, when the township acquired it. It currently operates as a museum and headquarters for the Jefferson Historical Society. A $16,160 grant has been recommended to support completing a Preservation Plan.

To date, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners has awarded 533 grants of nearly $49 Million to assist in preserving, protecting, and restoring 123 historical properties since 2003, when grants were first issued for protecting historic sites through Morris County’s Preservation Trust Fund. The sites are in 34 towns.

“For the application review process, the county historic preservation consultant reviewed 22 applications for conformance to the Secretary of Interior Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. The (Historic Preservation) board members conducted site visits after final presentations by the applicants, and the review board deliberated on funding recommendations,” said Larry Fast, Chair of the Review Board. “19 of the 21 projects received full funding this year.” 

See the Full List of Projects Considered This Year by the Review Board 

Among the projects recommended for approval by the Commissioners include: 

Ford-Faesch House, Rockaway Township 

The 18th-century Georgian-style Ford-Faesch House was leased by Faesch, a Swiss ironmaster who produced munitions critical to Washington’s Revolutionary War effort. The $400,000 grant will provide partial interior restoration and roof replacement, including fireplace surrounds, wood flooring, restoration of the main staircase, and new asphalt shingle roofs at the main and east wings.

Martin Berry House, Landscape Plan

The c. 1720 Dutch Colonial house includes a gambrel roof, shallow fireplaces, interior chimneys, thick stone walls, and massive roof framing. It was documented through the Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) in 1939 and listed on the National and New Jersey Registers in 1973. The $31,922 grant will provide for the completion of a Historic Landscape Report.

The Commissioners anticipate taking action on the recommendations provided at the next work session meeting, scheduled for July 10, 2024. 

MORRIS COUNTY HISTORICAL PRESERVATION TRUST FUND 2024 GRANTS

Ayres Farm Garage – Exterior Restoration Denville Twp. $254,800 C
Arthur W. Condict House – Windows and Turret Dover Town $40,000 C
Cook House – Exterior Restoration East Hanover Twp. $334,000 C
L’Ecole Kinnelon Museum – Electrical Upgrades Kinnelon Boro. $138,704 C
Museum of Early Trades & Crafts – Clock Restoration Madison Boro. $15,280 C
Acorn Hall – Interior Restoration Morristown Town $176,360 C
Seward House – Interior Restoration Mount Olive Twp. $398,172 C
Mountain Lakes Train Station – Partial Exterior Restoration Mountain Lakes $433,520 C Craftsman Farms – Hall Restoration Parsippany-Troy Hills Twp. $26,772 C
Pompton Plains Railroad Station – Exterior Rehabilitation Pequannock Twp. $345,723 C Ford-Faesch House – Interior Restoration Rockaway Twp. $400,000 C
Lafayette School – Exterior Restoration Roxbury Twp. $241,608 C
Darress Theatre – Construction Documents Boonton Town $106,450 NC
Orchard Street Cemetery Gatehouse – Preservation Plan Dover Town $5,000 NC
Orchard Street Cemetery Gatehouse – Register Nomination Dover Town $5,000 NC Chamberlain House – Preservation Plan Jefferson Twp. $16,160 NC
Millington Schoolhouse – Construction Documents Long Hill Twp. $44,000 NC
Madison Masonic Lodge – Acquisition Madison Boro. $562,500 NC
Schuyler-Hamilton House – Construction Documents Morristown Town $26,360 NC
Growing Stage – Construction Documents Netcong Boro. $24,800 NC
Martin Berry House – Landscape Plan Pequannock Twp. $31,922 NC

21 Projects Totaling $3,627,131 21
C – Construction Grant NC – Non-Construction Grant