Teen Loss, Pizza Pride, New Cop Cars Top News

The second week of January brought change to Washington Township, but felt immense pain nearby in Mt. Olive, as two teens were lost to the icy waters of Budd Lake. Below is a look back at our top stories of the week.

Click on the headline to read the full article.

While we continuously updated the status of the loss of two teens in Budd Lake, this was the first story in our ongoing coverage. It was learned as the week went on that Clyde Shimanski III and Nick Cianciotto fell beneath the ice Monday night on Budd Lake. Recovery divers spent most of the week searching for the teens.

First Chester Rep Official on Regional Board

For the first time in West Morris Regional Board of Education history, a representative from Chester Borough has joined the group. Don Storms took the oath of office Monday night. The nine-member board now represents all five towns that send students to schools in the district.

Philanthropic Pizza Offers ‘Pride’ in Town

Bob and Heidi Prudente grew up in Long Valley, and now they own a business here. It’s their wish that the community that raised them be a great place to live for everyone. And that’s why they’re donating $2 from each special pizza promotion to a nonprofit of choice each month this year at Bob’s Long Valley Pizza, Deli & Bagel. Read the story to find out more.

County Tax Freeze Sought by New Freeholder

Washington Township’s John Krickus was sworn into his first term on the Morris County Freeholder board recently, and told Patch he plans to work on a no-increase budget plan and eliminate health benefits for the board’s members. See more of Krickus’ thoughts in the article.

New Cop Cars Ready for Long Valley Roads

As agreed upon in 2012, the Washington Township Police Department received two new patrol vehicles to add to its fleet. This time, however, the vehicles are Chevy Caprices, not Crown Victorias like the rest of the group. They’re also black with silver lettering instead of navy blue.