Morris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo was among six residents honored at the 29th Annual Morris County Lifetime Achievement Awards Dinner, hosted by the Patriots’ Path Council, Scouting America. The June 3, 2026 event raised more than $80,000 to support local Scouting programs.
Mastrangelo, a longtime member of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, was introduced by former honoree John Sette. The annual award recognizes individuals who exemplify the ideals of the Scout Oath and Law through their dedication to worthwhile causes and the impact they have made throughout Morris County.
This year’s class of honorees also included Col. Patrick Callahan, former superintendent of the New Jersey State Police; Emerson Crooks, Vietnam veteran and vice president of the Mental Health Association’s Board of Directors; Rich Hoer, president and CEO of Lakeside Construction; Pam O’Donnell, founder of the Catch You Later Foundation; and Nick Rafanello, president and CEO of Eastern Janitorial.
The event was chaired by Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, Sheriff James Gannon, and state Sen. Anthony Bucco also attended. Each honoree received a commemorative plaque featuring artwork by Joseph Csatari, the longtime official artist of the Boy Scouts of America.
Proceeds from the dinner help provide camping and adventure trips for Scouts who need financial assistance, along with Eagle Scout Merit Scholarships for local youth pursuing higher education. The Patriots’ Path Council serves more than 10,000 youth members across Morris, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and parts of Middlesex counties.
Residents can learn more about the Patriots’ Path Council and upcoming events at ppcscouting.org.
