Joseph Bock, Jr. joined Kaufman Semeraro & Leibman

MORRIS COUNTY — Joseph Bock, Jr. joined Kaufman Semeraro & Leibman, LLP as an associate in 2018. Mr. Bock’s practice areas include land use, zoning, development, local government law, commercial litigation, commercial and residential tax appeals and insurance defense.

Mr. Bock counsels and represents clients throughout all stages of land use applications. Throughout his career, Mr. Bock has participated in numerous municipal governing body meetings as legal counsel. Mr. Bock has successfully tried numerous trials and argued motions before the Tax Court of New Jersey.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Bock gained valuable litigation experience by serving as Municipal Public Defender for the Township of Boonton and the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, by serving as insurance defense counsel for the Morris Joint Insurance Fund, and by serving as Law Clerk to the Honorable James M. DeMarzo, Superior Court of New Jersey.

Bock graduated from Hamilton College in 2009 and then Rutgers University School of Law in 2012. He is also a graduate of Mountain Lakes High School.

He was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar Association in 2012, United States District Court, District of New Jersey in 2012 and Pennsylvania Bar Association in 2013. He belongs to New Jersey State Bar Association and Bergen County Bar Association. He is also past President of Morris County Young Republicans and current Treasurer.

Kaufman Semeraro & Leibman is located at Fort Lee Executive Park, Two Executive Drive Suite 530, Fort Lee. The firm is also located at 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 385, Parsippany.

Students at Parsippany High take part in National Walkout Day

PARSIPPANY — In the wake of the tragic events that occurred at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, a grassroots movement has emerged promoting a National School Walkout on March 14, 2018. This movement has gained support from students across New Jersey and in Parsippany-Troy Hills, as well.

Student leaders at Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School expressed their desire to stand with their peers from across the country on March 14. The goal of the students is to gather to honor the lives lost in Parkland school shooting and to raise their voices in a call for action to promote safety for all students in America’s schools.

At Parsippany High School the walkout was ultimately held in the auditorium due to snow. Students were given the chance to speak on gun violence, there was a moment of silence, and they watched a video of the student activists from the Parkland shooting on the walkout.

There was a 17 minute walk out to recognize the 17 lives lost at the parkland shooting

Students at Parsippany High School during National Walkout Day

There was a high turnout and it was a positive experience for all the students attending. The experience gave the students a chance to address the issue of gun violence/mass shooting and show our solidarity.

“The walkout really did give students at my school the chance to feel heard. I feel so lucky to attend a school that keeps an open dialogue on the things that matter. While many students that attended the walkout certainly disagree on specific gun policy prescriptions, the important thing is that we all rallied behind the idea that something needs to be done. We had the chance to express how passionate we are about the issue which unites us and made the walkout a success,” said Junior Bella Rocco.

Parsippany Police was present to ensure security and to assist in closing off access to the school during this time. Visitors will not be permitted to enter the campus between 9:45 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to provide for the safety of our students and staff.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Superintendent Dr. Barbara Sargent said “The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District has developed a comprehensive Strategic Plan which strives to produce students who are problem-solvers and self-directed individuals, and to help all students become adaptable, confident citizens who embody self-awareness and strong interpersonal skills, capable of responsible decision-making and managing their emotions and behaviors. Toward that end, our schools support students who wish to participate in a peaceful and organized Walkout on March 14.”

The experience gave the students a chance to address the issue of gun violence/mass shooting and show our solidarity.

Parsippany High School students organizing the event were Caitlin Crooker, Nicole Dugan, Emma Suarez, Bethany Goordman, Fiona Celli, Tyler Becker, Amanda Stover, Sarah Dipippa, Riley Ferguson and Kenny Slaman.

This also wouldn’t have been possible without the cooperation of Principal Dr. Mulroony and the PHS staff.

Students gathered in the auditorium at Parsippany High School during National Walkout Day

 

 

Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Announces Drug and Firearm Arrest

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Butler Police Chief Ciro Chimento and Kinnelon Police Chief John Schwartz announce the arrest of an individual stemming from an investigation into the illegal distribution of narcotics.

This joint investigation was conducted by the Butler Police Department and the Kinnelon Police Department, with assistance from Morris County Sheriff’s SERT and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. The investigation culminated on Sunday, March 11, which led to the seizure of one fully automatic machine gun, one assault rifle, 79 marijuana plants in various stages of growth, approximately ten pounds of marijuana, mushrooms, two  shotguns, four rifles, one loaded handgun, high capacity magazines, silencers, throwing stars, metal knuckles, drug distribution related paraphernalia, the profits of suspected criminal activity in excess of $6,700 United States currency, and a 2006 Jeep.

The following individual was arrested as a result of this investigation:

Defendant: Richard J. Spielman

  • One count of first-degree knowingly maintaining or operating a premise, place, or facility used for the manufacture of marijuana in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-4.
  • One count of first-degree possession with intent to distribute (marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5B (10).
  • One count of second-degree possession of a machine gun without being licensed under N.J.S.A. 2C:58-5, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5A.
  • One count of second-degree possession of an assault firearm without being licensed under N.J.S.A. 2C:58-5, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5F.
  • Nine counts of second-degree possession of firearm while in the course of committing a violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-4 and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-4 in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4.1A.
  • One count of second-degree possession of more than 5lbs. of marijuana in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5B10 (B).
  • One count of third-degree possession with intent to distribute (psilocybin), in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5A (1).
  • One count of third-degree possession of a CDS (psilocybin), in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5A (1).
  • One count of fourth-degree possession of a CDS (marijuana), in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5A (1).
  • One count of fourth-degree possession of two firearm silencers, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-3C.
  • One count of fourth-degree possession of metal knuckles, knives, throwing stars without any explainable lawful purpose, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-3E.
  • One count of fourth-degree possession of multiple high capacity magazines, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-3J.
  • One count of possession of drug paraphernalia (a disorderly persons offense), in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2.

Pursuant to the Bail Reform law, Richard J. Spielman was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a first appearance and a pre-trial detention hearing.

This investigation was led by Lieutenant Michael Moeller and Detective Jarred Schmiedhauser from the Butler Police Department, and Detective Sergeant David Crouthamel and Detective Rick McDonald from the Kinnelon Police Department.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Chief Andrew Miller swearing in to be held on Thursday

PARSIPPANY  — Mayor Michael Soriano announces the swearing in of Parsippany’s newest Police Chief Andrew Miller, on Thursday, March 15 at 11:00 a.m. The swearing in will take place at Parsippany Town Hall, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. The public is invited.

Andrew Miller

Mayor Michael Soriano appointed Captain Andrew Miller as Acting Chief on March 1.

Captain Miller has served with the Parsippany Police Department for twenty-six years, most recently serving as commander of the Investigative Division. In addition to eight years of honorable service in the New Jersey Army National Guard, he holds a Master’s Degree in Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He is also the recipient of eleven awards and commendations from the Parsippany Police Department, including the Exceptional Duty Medal and Life Saving Award.

“Having proudly served the Parsippany Police Department for twenty-six years, it is with great excitement that I accept the honor of serving as Chief of Police,” Miller commented.  “This incredible opportunity is owed to the Parsippany Police Officers who I’ve worked for and with over the years, whose leadership, influence and shared job experiences provide the knowledge and ability necessary for me to assume this trust.  To Mayor Michael Soriano, your confidence and trust in me is greatly appreciated.”

Chief Paul Philipps will retire on March 1, after thirty-eight years of service to the Parsippany Police Department.

“Although we did not have the opportunity to work together for very long, I have a deep respect for Chief Philipps’ dedication to this township,” Soriano said.  “I know that Andrew Miller will continue the commitment to excellence that has been demonstrated by the Parsippany Police Department since its founding, and I look forward to our residents seeing the innovative and purposeful ideas he will bring to our community.”

CareOne at Morris joins Parsippany Chamber

PARSIPPANY — CareOne at Morris, located at 100 and 200 Madzabrook Road, recently joined the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Membership Committee Chairman Dr. Patrick Selimo had the opportunity of presenting Ms. Sarah Ur with her 2018 Membership Plaque.

PACC is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents, and volunteers that provides education, information, and networking opportunities to the Parsippany Area. We work with our local and county governments and stand ready to pursue any matter that can make our community a better place in which to live, conduct business, and make a living. We promote a healthy and more prosperous economic climate.

Care One will be sponsoring  our Speed Networking Event on Wednesday, March 21 at 6:00 p.m. If you are interested in attending please contact Frank Cahill at (973) 402-6400 or click here to register. The event is free to all, members and non-members, but please pre-register.

CareOne at Morris shares its campus with CareOne at Morris Assisted Living, and is a 4-star, 118 bed skilled nursing facility with sub-acute care and long-term care. It also has a Diabetes Program. For more information click here.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is located at 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322. For more information on joining or becoming involved click here.

Council meeting rescheduled to March 13

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., is reminding Parsippany residents of the rescheduled Council Meeting for Tuesday, March 13 at 7:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend all meetings. A portion of each meeting will be set aside for public comment. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.  The meeting was originally scheduled for March 6, but cancelled due to the weather.

Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the American with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. Please call (973) 263-4357 to make a request for an auxiliary aid.

All meeting are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.

Community Health Fair to be Held by Parsippany Teachers

PARSIPPANY — Free blood pressure checks, advice on prevention and preparedness, low cost on-site eye exams, free chiropractic and fall risk screenings are just a few of the many offerings awaiting Parsippany residents at the fourth annual community-wide health fair to be held at the Parsippany PAL Youth Center, 33 Baldwin Road, on Saturday, March 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Participants will be offered a wide variety of free services, ranging from cancer screenings to helpful tips on fire prevention, first aid, CPR and disaster preparedness, compliments of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Education Association.

Participating exhibitors include:
Parsippany-Troy Hills Health Department: Literature and advice about EMS, pest control, general information, questions & answers.
-St. Clare’s Hospital:  Free blood pressure checks, fall risk screenings, ambulance with EMT personnel, general information, Q&A;
-Source of Health:  Free chiropractic consultation and spinal pre-screening;
-American Red Cross:  Information and advice about first aid, CPR and disaster preparedness;
-Parsippany Fire Prevention:  Information, safety tips, literature;
-American Cancer Society:  Information about cancer screenings;
-Community Blood Services:  Full blood drive, blood pressure check, blood type ID.
-Optical Academy:  Discounted eye exams and eyewear ($30/exam, $29+ /glasses).  Reservation preferred, click here to make a reservation.

A complimentary buffet lunch will be provided for visitors to the health fair.

Parsippany Hills Success at the 2018 FBLA SLC

PARSIPPANY — Thursday, March 8 and Friday, March 9 the Parsippany Hills High School Future Business Leaders of America club competed at the State Competition in Atlantic City.  Congratulations to the Chapter on their all-around success!  24 of the members have qualified for the National Competition in Baltimore, MD this summer, which is a PHHS FBLA school record.

PHHS FBLA group

Harvey Wang was appointed State Webmaster, a position held formerly by fellow Viking Siddhanth (Sidd) Patel.  NJ FBLA bid farewell to PHHS’s very own state officers Adam Giovanelli, Arijit Pingle and Sidd Patel.  Mr. Kandil was recognized as a NJ Local Outstanding Advisor.  All members who competed did a fine job of representing PHHS. 

Congratulations to the following:

EVENT

GROUP MEMBERS

PLACE

Business Plan*

Shivani Patel
Karoline Xiong

1

Business Financial Plan*

Yash Bhawsar
Brandon Sung
Kyle Sung

1

Community Service Project*

Arijit Pingle
Jeremy Thomas

1

Social Media Campaign*

Steven Feng
Juliana Urbis

1

Introduction to Business Presentation*

Harvey Wang
Nick Levytsky
Nicholas Kuo

1

Insurance Risk Management*

Ellen Chen

2

Introduction to Financial Math*

Alex Zhang

3

Help Desk*

Shrusti Goswami

3

Parliamentary Procedures*

Job Arita
Diana DeMottie
Matthieu Granvil
Amy Staudinger

3

e-Business*

Matthew Kwan
Arjun Nagendran
David Sudit

4

Economics*

William Yang

4

Business Calculations*

Ashil Vekaria

4

VBC – Personal Finance*

VBC – Management*

Yash Bhawsar
Shivani Patel
Karoline Xiong

2

1

Advertising

Brittney D’Mello

5

* Indicates National Qualifier

Kandil Chapter Advisor Recognition
Adam Giovanelli, Northern Region Vice President

Rainbow Lakes residents thanks crew from Maryland

PARSIPPANY — This message was submitted to Parsippany Focus from Andy Sadowski.

A huge thanks to Jake, Chad, Scott, Jimmy, and DJ, from NG Gilbert who restored power to my neighborhood.

This hard working crew came up from Maryland after the storm to help restore power and have been restoring power to the best of their ability.

Contrary to what many may think, these crews are not responsible for the delay in restoring power but are the cure. These gentleman packed up their belongings and left everything behind along with hundreds of other individuals from up and down the coast to help restore power to countless communities in the area.

Please take a moment to thank this crew and the countless other crews who are working tirelessly to restore power.

I had a brief moment to talk to these guys moments before they packed up for their next job and was grateful for restoring power to my neighborhood. If you have been without power, please share this as a way to thank you to all the crews out there who brought power back one neighborhood at a time.

Township Clerk to speak at Chamber event

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Clerk Khaled Madin will be a guest speaker at the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce “Lunch Dozen Networking Series” on Wednesday, March 14.

Madin will answer questions that pertain to the duties of the Township Clerk.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is located in the Halsey Corporate Center, 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322.

Reservations are required. $15.00 includes lunch. For more information contact Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce at (973) 402-6400. Click here to reserve your spot.

PACC is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents, and volunteers that provides education, information, and networking opportunities to the Parsippany Area. We work with our local and county governments and stand ready to pursue any matter that can make our community a better place in which to live, conduct business, and make a living. We promote a healthy and more prosperous economic climate.