I am proud to partner with Morris County Crimestoppers and Table of Hope for our annual Beefsteak For Hope, raising funds for the Table of Hope - a place where hope starts, and the community gathers to share.  The Table of Hope is a community kitchen and food pantry for those in need.

Join us September 26, 6 PM at the Birchwood Manor - 111 N. Jefferson Rd., Whippany - $65 per person.  There will be a 50/50, raffles and more!

Click here for tickets, donations, and program ad space.

Hope to see you there -- if you can't make it, please consider a donation!

--Jim Gannon

(click image above to download the flyer to send in with your generous donations)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                

CONTACT:    Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco/ 973.927.2526
                   Sheriff James M. Gannon/ 973.285.6622
                   Chief Conrad Pepperman/ 973.627.1314
                   NJSPBA President Patrick Colligan/ 732.609.3554
                   NJSPBA Executive Director Marc Kovar/ 732.636.8860

January 9, 2019                                    

Randolph, N.J. – Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco, LD-25 (Morris, Somerset), Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, the New Jersey State PBA and the Morris County Police Chiefs Association came together today to celebrate the collection of hundreds of stuffed bears for juveniles that law enforcement personnel encounter in the line of duty.   The "Feel Better Bears" program helps children feel better during emergencies, giving them a brand-new toy to hug during a time of need.

Left to Right: Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, New Jersey State PBA President Patrick Colligan, 
Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco, Rockaway Police Chief Conrad Pepperman, New Jersey PBA Executive Director Marc Kovar

NJ State PBA President Patrick Colligan is enthusiastic over the difference the donations will make on the lives of children that receive them. “When dealing with emergency situations where a child is involved, having these toys will help an officer make a child feel safe.” I couldn’t be more proud to be involved with the program.”

“It seems most fitting that it is today, on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, that we celebrate such a special program.” said Assemblyman Anthony Bucco. “In addition to the daily acts of heroism our police officers perform, they also comfort these innocent children in very difficult situations. It really helps underscore what makes these men and women so special.”   

“The community support for this project was tremendous.” said Sheriff Jim Gannon. “I want to thank all the people that contributed to the program. I’m sure these bears will make a difference in the lives of a lot of children.”

“In situations like these, our officers are aware that there’re more to being a public servant than upholding laws. We are a part of the community, and always strive to make a difficult situation easier on children” said Chief Conrad Pepperman of Rockaway.

“As the President of the Morris County Chiefs of Police Association, I am honored that Assemblyman Bucco has chosen to partner with our organization and our endeavors to support the Feel Better Bear Program”, said Chief Ciro Chimento. “Since this program directly affects our most innocent little ones, we appreciate Assemblyman Bucco’s compassion. We are happy to collaborate and know that this program will provide comfort to the children of Morris County”, he added.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                 
CONTACT:        Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco/ 973.927.2526
                       Sheriff James M. Gannon/ 973.285.6622
                       NJSPBA President Patrick Colligan/ 732.609.3554


December 14, 2018  

Assemblyman Bucco and Sheriff Gannon's Offices are 
NJSPBA "Feel Better Bears" Drop Off Locations

Randolph, N.J. - Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco, LD-25 (Morris, Somerset), Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, the New Jersey State PBA and the Morris County Police Chiefs Association are collaborating this holiday season by collecting teddy bears for juveniles that law enforcement personnel encounter in the line of duty.   They are calling them "Feel Better Bears" because police will make children feel better during emergencies, giving them brand-new bears to hug.

People are encouraged to donate new, unused stuffed animals.  Although the item does not have to be a bear, it should be of a reasonable size small enough to be held comfortably by a small child.  

The Feel Better Bears can be dropped off at the Office of Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco 1040 Route 10 West, Suite 104  Randolph, NJ 07869 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office, 56 Washington Street, Morristown, NJ 07963 now through December 31, 2018  to make a child feel better during a time of need.

The "Feel Better Bears" program is an opportunity for us to collect stuffed animals that will comfort those most vulnerable at extremely difficult times, said NJ State PBA President Patrick Colligan.  "We are grateful to Assemblyman Bucco, Sherriff Gannon and Chief Chimento for opening up their offices and using their positions to assist in this worth-while effort", he added.

"I am proud to open up my legislative office to be a drop off center for the Feel Better Bears program.  When Pat spoke to me about the PBA's effort, I jumped at the chance to help out," Bucco said.  "Especially at this time of year, we can gather donations and make a huge impact for those children in need," he added.

"I have been a police officer for decades and have seen first-hand the sadness and fear in the eyes of children. Our first contact with children can be life changing for them.  A Feel Better Bear will help to relieve a little of that fear, pain and sadness, said Sheriff Jim Gannon. "I am proud to have my office be a drop off location and lend my name to this wonderful program."  


"As the incoming President of the Morris County Chiefs of Police Association, I am honored that Assemblyman Bucco has chosen to partner with our organization and our endeavors to support the Feel Better Bear Program", said Chief Ciro Chimento. "Since this program directly affects our most innocent little ones, we appreciate Assemblyman Bucco's compassion. We are happy to collaborate and know that this program will provide comfort to the children of Morris County", he added. 

# # # #

Only 17 security executives and industry leaders in America made the cut

For Immediate Release
Contact: Sheriff Jim Gannon

Morristown, September 7, 2018 – Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon earned national recognition from Security magazine as one of 2018’s Most Influential People in Security, joining just 16 fellow top security executives and industry leaders in America who are positively impacting the security field, their organization, their peers, and the national and global security landscape.

“It is always humbling to be recognized by your peers and fellow professionals who understand the incredibly complex and sophisticated world of security in today’s day and age,” said Sheriff Gannon.  “I have been incredibly blessed to work with so many elite men and women in law enforcement and corporate security over the years.  They share this award with me.  It’s a tough business made up of tough individuals.  To be recognized in their company is a true honor.”

Prior to becoming Morris County Sheriff in January 2017, Gannon was the Global Head of Security Risk for Novartis following a decorated career in law enforcement.  Sheriff Gannon served in the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in Newark and investigated sensitive international terrorism and national security matters.  He also worked in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, climbing the ranks from Detective to Deputy Chief of Investigations, eventually starting the Morris County Cold Case Unit in 2003, co-authoring the “Morris County Counter-Terrorism Task Force Manual,” and leading a team of police officers into New York City to assist with the PENTTBOMB Investigation on 9/11.

Security magazine said the following about Sheriff Gannon and his fellow honorees: “These security leaders have been nominated by their colleagues and associates and were chosen based upon their leadership qualities and overall positive impact on stakeholders, enterprises, colleagues, constituents and the general public.”

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Delighted to share this press release from Bob Hugin's Senatorial campaign!

Sheriff Gannon, Hugin Address Opioid Crisis
 

ROCKAWAY, NJ — Morris County Sheriff James Gannon and U.S. Senate Candidate Bob Hugin met to discuss the opioid crisis crippling communities across New Jersey. Sheriff Gannon and Hugin also toured the mobile recovery access vehicle, known as HOPE ONE, which offers critical support for people struggling with addiction and strives to prevent drug overdoses and deaths.

“The opioid crisis has become personal for far too many New Jerseyans, but it’s organizations like CARES that are truly making a difference in our communities,” said Hugin. “Resources like HOPE ONE and leaders like Sheriff Gannon, are giving people struggling with drug addiction hope. I strongly support their efforts, but we can and must do more to continue reducing the stigma about the opioid crisis and to encourage people to seek the help they need. As Senator, I look forward to ensuring Washington is working in partnership with Trenton and our local communities to provide the resources and tools needed here in New Jersey to effectively address this crisis.”

The Sheriff’s Community Services Unit operates HOPE ONE in partnership with the Morris County Department of Human Services, the Mental Health Association of Morris County, and Morris County Prevention is Key’s Center for Addiction Recovery Education and Success (CARES). CARES works to engage and organize the recovery community by helping individuals find, maintain, and enhance their recovery experience through peer support, educational and volunteer opportunities, and sober recreation, as well as working to reduce the stigma associated with substance abuse through advocacy, education, and service.

“To effectively address and deal with the opioid crisis, we need to have the proper resources to ensure people dealing with drug addiction get the help they need. In addition to resources like HOPE ONE and organizations like CARES, the Federal Government and Trenton need to be partners in addressing this problem,” said Morris County Sheriff James Gannon. “As Senator, I know that Bob Hugin will be a leader in ensuring our local communities have an able and willing partner in Washington to continue combatting this crisis.

HOPE ONE travels twice a week to locations throughout Morris County, bringing services to people in need. A Sheriff’s officer, licensed clinician, and a certified peer recovery specialist — who understand the needs of those suffering with addiction — staff the vehicle.

Bob Hugin, a Marine Corps Veteran and business leader who has created thousands of New Jersey jobs, is running for U.S. Senate against incumbent Senator Bob Menendez. For more information visit bobhugin.com.

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MORRISTOWN, N.J. – A local businessman and long-time member of the 200 Club of Morris County, a non-profit organization that supports area public safety personnel, has been elected president of the group.

Mount Olive resident William Lockwood, Marketing Executive with The Padded Wagon Moving and Storage, has been involved with the 200 Club for many years, most recently as senior vice president. He has been involved with many facets of the organization’s operations, including recruiting new members and increasing public awareness of the group. The 200 Club reported that its membership rolls exceeded 1,000 members for the first time in several years.

"It is a courageous individual that answers the call in the middle of the night to help someone in need. Whether it's a weekend, weekday or a holiday, our First Responders are there protecting our families every day of the year!" said Lockwood. “This organization pays tribute to them with our members support.”

He succeeds James Gannon, Morris County Sheriff, who is now the chairman of the board.

Other officers elected included Jim Rizzo, senior vice president; Lori Hager, senior vice president; Joe Marts, vice president; Robert D’Emidio, vice president; Damien Paumi, treasurer; John Corigliano, assistant treasurer; and Ronald Barnett, secretary.

 Trustees include Chairman of the Board James Gannon, Susan Ceravolo, Joseph Jannarone, Jr., Peter Kenny, Todd Leonard, John Mania, Dennis Patrick, Janet Rapisardi, Michelle Slapa, and Frank Zupa.

Since its inception in 1971, the 200 Club of Morris County has distributed more than $4.5 million in benefits to police officers, firefighters and emergency medical services workers and their families. Benefits take the form of survivor benefits to the families who have lost a spouse who was a first-responder and scholarships that have been awarded to children of emergency workers in Morris County. The organization also recognizes the heroic actions of those who keep the public safe and secure.

Information about membership in the 200 Club and its various programs is available at www.200clubofmorriscounty.com or by calling 973-630-7933.

Table of Hope and the Spring Street Community Development Center of Morristown would like to bring awareness to their annual appeal for donations, volunteers, and needed items.

Here are ways you can assist and help from the flyer which you can download by clicking here.

From The Table of Hope and the Spring Street CDC

Ways to Give

•Call Mary Wortman at 973-998-9330 and schedule a time to volunteer- guaranteed to make you feel good and she gives great hugs!

•Write a check payable to Spring Street CDC and specify Table of Hope in the memo

•Give through PayPal @ www.springstreetcdc.org

•Payroll deduction through your employer

How You Can Help

Cash donations: With cash, we are able to purchase food and supplies and pay staff. We can buy food from the Food Bank of New Jersey at a cost that is much lower than the grocery store.

Volunteer: Our volunteers provide critical help – serving the meals, driving our van, making phone calls, general office work, small maintenance issues, and lots of other things! Email Teresa at [email protected] if you can help.

Host an Evening: Get together after work with your colleagues to serve a dinner to our guests! Our Host an Evening program provides a unique opportunity for your company to get involved while giving back to the community. Your donation of $1,000 covers the cost of opening the doors and serving all of our guests for that evening. You and your team will jump right in to get the meal on the table and you’ll see first-hand the difference your generosity makes.

Collect needed items: shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, coats, and blankets.

Leverage Your Donation: Many employers will match your donation – please check with your employer to obtain the proper forms to submit to leverage your gift.

Pledge Securities, Property, or thru Planned Giving: Remember us. If you are a supporter, please consider leaving a bequest for Spring Street CDC in your will.

PART OF MAJOR SHAKEUP OF GREYSTONE REVIEW BOARD BY GOV. CHRISTIE

Jan. 11, 2018
County of Morris
Official News Release

For Immediate Release

Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon has been appointed by Gov. Chris Christie to the Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital Board of Trustees, as part of a complete overhaul of the state hospital’s review board.

“I take this appointment very seriously and plan to work very hard on behalf of the patients from Morris County and across North Jersey who have ended up at Greystone due to severe mental illness,’’ said Sheriff Gannon.

“Those patients – who are our family members and friends and neighbors and co-workers -- count on the staff and administration of this hospital to provide the best care possible and in a most secure setting.  I look forward to working with the other trustees to make sure they get the care they deserve.’’

Also appointed by the Governor to the Greystone Board of Trustees are:

• Michele Brown of Mendham, who was Gov. Christie’s Appointments Counsel and headed the state Economic Development Authority;
• Wayne Hasenbalg of Randolph, who is CEO of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority and former Deputy Chief of Staff to Gov. Christie;
• Morris Township Mayor Bruce Sisler;
• Attorney Louis Modugno, a partner in the McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter law firm;
• Jim DiGiulio of Chatham, who is Chief Counsel to Gov. Christie.
• Peter Simon of Jersey City; Chief of Staff to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Greystone, which is located in Parsippany, houses more than 500 patients in a relatively new state facility that replaced an ancient hospital campus that was constructed in the 1800s and early 1900s. There have been reports of complaints in recent months by mental health advocates and some board members about a lack of patient safety in the hospital.

Gov. Christie in December announced a contract with New Solutions, a health-consulting firm in New Brunswick, to perform an assessment of the situation at Greystone and all state psychiatric hospitals.

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CONFERENCE FOCUSES ON FOSTERING TREATMENT AND RECOVERY FOR SUBSTANCE USE AND MENTAL ILLNESS 

(l/r) County Human Services Director Jennifer Carpinteri, County Behavioral Health Services Director Laurie Becker, Dana Critchlaw, Sheriff James M. Gannon, Rosaelena Klingener, and Freeholder Kathy DeFillippo 

Nov. 2, 2017
Official News Release
For Immediate Release

 Three leaders of Morris County’s Stigma-Free Initiative, a countywide movement aimed at promoting treatment for mental illness and addiction to foster recovery, received the first Leadership in Action awards at yesterday’s Stigma-Free Conference held at the Morristown Medical Center.

Honored for promoting a non-judgmental approach to offering treatment, and providing real alternatives toward recovery, were:

• Dana Critchlaw, Jefferson Township—JT Connect
• Rosaelena Klingener—Prime Healthcare/Saint Clare’s
• James M. Gannon, Morris County Sheriff

They were honored at a conference sponsored by the Morris County Board of Freeholders and Atlantic Health System in collaboration with the Morris County Department of Human Services and the Stigma-Free Community.

Entitled “Removing the Stigma of Mental Illness and Addiction: Building Healthy Communities,’’ the purpose of the event was to bring the community together to help:

• Create a non-judgmental environment where individuals with mental illness and addictions feel supported by their community and neighbors
• Encourage people to seek treatment for these illnesses without fear of stigma
• Provide prevention, treatment, & recovery resource information
• Share ideas on stigma free activities — discuss successes and challenges

“We understand this Stigma-Free effort is not something the county Freeholder Board could just proclaim as a reality – issue a proclamation and it will go away,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Kathy DeFillippo. “We understand that Stigma-Free has to be more than just a slogan, that it has to become a fabric of live in our county community to have any real meaning., and to have a chance to succeed.’’

“Atlantic Health System is committed to building healthier communities, and that involves programs and partnerships outside of the walls of our hospitals,” said Trish O’Keefe, PhD, RN, president of Morristown Medical Center. “We aim to provide person-centered care that reflects the unique needs of each individual we're privileged to serve. Through our ongoing partnerships with Morris County organizations, we're able to ensure that both medical and psychosocial needs are met.”

Guest speakers at the conference provided, who spoke of the importance of a Stigma-Free approach, included: Bob Davison, CEO of the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris; Pamela Garanger of the National Alliance on Mentally Illness; Melissa Kiritsis of Jefferson’s JT Connect; and James M. Gannon, Morris County Sheriff.

The Honorees:

Rosaelena Klingener:  A registered nurse, licensed social worker and nationally certified mental health first aid instructor, Rosaelena has worked for more than 25 year in the mental health field at Saint Clare’s Hospital. She is an advocate who makes connections, starts conversations, and fosters change.

In June, Rosaelena received NAMI New Jersey’s Provider Recognition Award for her compassionate support of individuals and families affected by mental illness.

She has long been committed to raising awareness, educating the public and bridging the gaps that prevent communities from accessing needed mental health and substance abuse services and resources. She has worked to promote a culture of understanding in which individuals get support in their wellness and recovery journeys.

Dana Critchlaw: A life-long Jefferson resident, Dana has long been a dedicated local volunteer and is the current leader of Jefferson Township CONNECT.

After her cousin took his own life in 2012, she began to reach out to people who were suffering, working to remove barriers that prevented people, like her cousin, from speaking up about the hurt and pain that mental illness can cause. Her efforts received strong public support.  

In May of 2017, she chaired an inaugural event, "Hike for Hope," partnering with the Mayor's Wellness campaign and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The event raised $3,400 for to help educational efforts by AFSP.

Dana describes these last five years as an opportunity to “discover light in a dark time.’’  She knows in her heart that her late cousin, Danny, is thankful that she has spoken up for those who cannot find the courage to speak for themselves.

Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon: The former Chief of Investigations at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and Global Head of Security Risk at Novartis Pharmaceuticals took office in January. He promptly made combatting the opioid epidemic in Morris County a priority, launching three programs:

Hope One – A mobile outreach program with the Morris County Department of Human Services and the Center for Addiction Recovery Education and Success (CARES). The mobile unit provides critical support for individuals struggling with drug addiction. Life-saving Narcan training is available for persons living with addiction.

Hope Wing -The Hope Wing helps inmates address their addictions while incarcerated and serving their time through “New Direction” curriculum.

ID Program - The Sheriff’s Office and county Department of Human Services instituted an identification program for people ages of 18-54. Without ID, people cannot get blood work at a hospital, receive drug detox or treatment and cannot even obtain a library book.

Sheriff Gannon said he realizes the answer to the opioid epidemic lies in the private and public partnerships forged in Morris County.

To learn more about the Stigma-Free initiative, find resources, read the latest Stigma-Free news, and take a look at the a calendar of upcoming events related to mental illness and substance abuse, visit the Stigma Free website at:

https://morriscountystigmafree.org/

A Stigma Free Toolkit also is available for towns and communities.

Stigma is defined as a mark of disgrace which results from the judgment by others. When an individual is labeled by their illness they experience judgment and prejudice. Stigma brings experiences and feelings of shame, embarrassment, distress, hopelessness and reluctance to seek or accept help.

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Morristown, NJ, October 24, 2017 — The Board of Directors of the Spring Street Community Development Center announces the appointment of Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon as the newest member of the board. 

Sheriff Gannon’s appointment expands the Board to nine directors. He will be a member of the Development and Governance Committees. The board is led by Chair, Rev. Sidney S. Williams, Jr., Pastor, Bethel Church of Morristown.

“Jim Gannon embodies the spirit of community and brings talent, expertise and energy to the table. We are very fortunate to have him by our side as we continue to help strengthen the community in Morris County,” said Teresa E. Williams, Executive Director of the Spring Street Community Development Center.

Since 2011, the Spring Street Community Development Corporation has been helping diverse communities of people with limited resources strengthen their families and find shelter during times of crisis.

Services include academic enrichment and outreach programs for youth ages 10-14, mentoring and tutoring, parenting classes (SOAR), emergency referral services, substance abuse services, food pantry and community kitchen (Table of Hope). Annually, Spring Street CDC serves over 5,000 individuals. 

Of those, 60 percent are refugees and/or immigrants. To learn more about the Spring Street CDC and its programs, visit www.springstreetcdc.org or like us on Facebook.

Sheriff Gannon grew up in Boonton and graduated from Our Lady of Mount Carmel elementary school and Boonton High School. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Law Enforcement from the County College of Morris, Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from William Paterson University, and a Master’s Degree in Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Sheriff Gannon was a Patrolman in his hometown of Boonton, and Boonton Township, followed by more than two decades of service at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, where he attained the rank of Deputy Chief of Investigations. Sheriff Gannon also was assigned to the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. 

Upon retirement, he joined the private sector at Novartis Pharmaceuticals, where he retired as the Global Head of Security Risk. 

In addition to his professional career in law enforcement and security, Gannon has given back to the surrounding communities in other ways, including as current President of the 200 Club of Morris County, Adjunct Professor at Centenary College, Life Member of the New Jersey State PBA 327, Cofounder of the Morris County Chapter of the Emerald Society of the State of New Jersey, and as a Drum Major in the Police Pipes & Drums of Morris County, to name a few. 

                                                                  ###

Media Contact:
Pastor Sidney Williams
Email: [email protected]

Tel: 973.267.8912