PARSIPPANY — Provident Bank made a donation of $4,000 to the Parsippany Concert Series Donation. Provident Bank is sponsoring “Time Machine” which performs on August 24, 2017 at Veterans Memorial Park.
Morris County Sheriff offers Summer Safety Tips
MORRIS COUNTY — As the Fourth of July holiday weekend approaches, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office wants the public to have a safe Independence Day and has provided several safety tips for residents.
“School is out, the weather is warm, families go away on vacation and enjoy outdoor recreational activities. However, a vacation can sometimes turn into a bad experience. Houses can be burglarized and accidents can occur while trying to have fun. The Sheriff’s Office has specialized units that see these unfortunate situations and we would like to help prevent them,” said Sheriff James M. Gannon.
Burglary Prevention
In 2016, the Morris County Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Section responded to 213 residential burglaries, 104 commercial burglaries and 175 motor vehicle burglaries. If you plan to travel, the Criminal 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 alerts followers 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.
- If vehicles will be in the driveway, make sure they are locked and the garage door opener is not in the vehicle.
- Lock valuable and important items in a safe place only you would know.
- Consider having a friend or family member check on the house.
Fireworks Safety
Governor Chris Christie recently signed a bill legalizing “non explosive, non aerial” fireworks such as sparklers, party poppers and smoke devices in New Jersey. These now legal items can be possessed or sold to persons 16 years of age or older. Explosive fireworks are still illegal.
Morris County Sheriff’s Bomb Squad Commander, Det/Corporal Doug Meyer said, “Any fireworks are dangerous and should not be handled recklessly. Although non explosive items are legal, there is still a harmful factor in using them.”
- A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities.
- Wear safety glasses when using fireworks.
- Use the 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 and/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 spent fireworks by wetting them and placing 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 a fireworks display 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.
For more information on the Morris County Sheriff’s Office click here.
Vertellus Crafts “Custom Crates” for Youth Served by Children’s Aid and Family Services
WHIPPANY — An in a hands-on service project, 35 employees of specialty chemical company Vertellus built, assembled and decorated custom hand-carved “toy boxes” for eight girls age 8-12 served by Children’s Aid and Family Services.
The personalized toy boxes reflect the individual interests of each girl, including sports, art, reading, computers and kittens.
In addition to building the sturdy, personalized crates, Vertellus employees included a gift tailored to each girl’s interests. The toy boxes was delivered to the girls on Thursday, June 29. The boxes were assembled and decorated at the Hanover Marriott, 1401 Route 10.
“Our Caring Capital team was awed by the passion that Vertellus participants brought to their toy boxes. They applied their strategic planning skills to a radically different challenge and produced dazzling results. Just imagine how the young recipients will feel today when they receive their elegantly customized gifts,” stated Susie Schub, President – Caring Capital/Jumpstart.
Alexander Visakay engaged to Christina Smith
PARSIPPANY — Aida Visakay and her late husband Bill Visakay of Parsippany are pleased announce the engagement of their son Alexander Visakay to Christina Smith of Lafayette.
Alex is a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2005 and a 2010 graduate of Northeastern University with a Civil Engineer degree and Master’s degree from Montclair University.
Alex teaches S.T.E.M at Morris Hills High School.
Christina graduated High Point Regional High School in 2006 and Bloomsburg University in 2010, she teaches Special Ed at Frankford Township School.
A September wedding is planned.
Alyssa Chellaraj selected to West Point’s Prestigious Summer Leadership Camp
PARSIPPANY — Alyssa Chellaraj, an upcoming Senior at Parsippany Christian School, was among 1,000 attendees at West Point’s prestigious Summer Leaders Experience (SLE) in June. More than 5,000 juniors nationwide applied to SLE, which offers outstanding high school juniors the opportunity to experience life at West Point. SLE attendees live in the cadet barracks, eat in the Cadet Mess, and participate in academic, leadership, athletic, and military workshops. The one-week seminars are designed to help juniors with their college-selection process, while giving them an idea of the importance of leadership and sound decision-making in their education, careers, and lives, in general.
“Being able to attend the SLE at West Point, I was able to learn a lot about the life of a West Point Cadet. I was able to do some military training and had the opportunity to attend classes each day that resembled a cadet’s class,” stated Chellaraj. “The biggest thing I learned was about leadership and the important values that come with being a good and disciplined leader.”
Chellaraj was also inducted into the American Christian Honor Society this June. The American Christian Honor Society was created to honor qualified high school students in member schools. The American Christian Honor Society seeks to: Advance Christian Scholarship, Challenge Christian Leadership, Honor Christian Character, and Stimulate Christian Service.
This July, Chellaraj will be attending the Youth Legislative Training Conference (YLTC) in Washington D.C. Here, she will benefit from several activities including a Congressional briefing, professional workshops, and a mock Senate simulation in which she will debate real world issues.
“Discipline and hard work are the catalysts for success in any area of life,” stated Parsippany Christian Principal David Detwiler. “Alyssa has been the model student for discipline, hard-work, self-motivation, and determination. It is because of these character traits Alyssa has excelled and has been selected as a representative of both PCS and NJ at this summer’s Youth Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. and was chosen as part of a selective group to participate in the Summer Leaders Experience at West Point.”
About Parsippany Christian School
Established in 1970, Parsippany Christian School has been one of the key ministries of Parsippany Baptist Church, conveniently located near the junctions of Route 10, 46, 80, and 287 in Morris County in Northern N.J. Parsippany Christian School educates students with classes from pre-Kindergarten through High School. Our goal is to assist and thus to partner with parents in their biblical role of both academic and spiritual education by offering a superior core education that encompasses both in a Christian worldview. Our faculty is dedicated to both sound academic instruction as well as to godly mentorship. The end goal is to train the next generation of Christian young people who will demonstrate biblical wisdom by surrendering their lives to the will of God and who will serve as a witness and testimony for Him in their community whether that be in the secular workforce or in full-time ministry. For more information click here.
Lap dances for Doctors who plead guilty in Parsippany Clinical Lab Scheme
PARSIPPANY — Five doctors admitted taking bribes in connection with a long-running and elaborate test referral scheme operated by Biodiagnostic Laboratory Services (BLS), of Parsippany, its president and numerous associates, Acting U.S. Attorney William E. Fitzpatrick announced. BLS was located at 181 New Road.
George Roussis, 44, of Staten Island, New York; Nicholas Roussis, 48, of Staten Island; Jorge J. Figueroa, 58, of Wayne; and Basel Batarseh, 57, of Franklin Lakes, each pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stanley R. Chesler in Newark federal court to separate informations charging them each with one count of accepting bribes in violation of the Federal Travel Act.
Yousef Zibdie, 53, of Wayne, who was indicted on June 6, 2017 with Aiman Hamdan and Kristina Hamdan, pleaded guilty before Judge Chesler to all eleven counts against him in the indictment, including participating in the bribery conspiracy, violating the Federal Anti-Kickback statute, violating the Federal Travel Act, honest services wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to documents filed in these cases and statements made in court:
George Roussis, a pediatrician, and his brother, Nicholas Roussis, an obstetrician-gynecologist, both with practices in Staten Island, accepted cash payments totaling approximately $175,000 from BLS employees and associates between October 2010 and April 2013. In addition, at the request of the Roussis brothers, BLS paid for strip club trips, including paying women to perform lap dances and engage in sex acts with George and Nicholas Roussis. In exchange, George and Nicholas Roussis referred their patients’ blood specimens to BLS, generating more than $1,450,000 and $250,000 of lab business for BLS, respectively.
Figueroa, an internal medicine doctor with a practice in Fair Lawn, accepted checks, cash and other bribe payments totaling approximately $200,000 from BLS employees and associates between May 2007 and April 2013. In exchange, Figueroa generated more than $1,400,000 in lab business for BLS.
Batarseh, an internal medicine doctor with a practice in West New York, accepted monthly bribe checks of $3,200 totaling more than $104,000 from BLS employees and associates between November 2007 and August 2010. In exchange, Batarseh generated more than $1,300,000 in lab business for BLS.
Zibdie, an internal medicine doctor with a practice in Woodland Park, accepted monthly bribe checks totaling approximately $80,000 from BLS employees and associates, including co-defendant Kristina Hamdan. In exchange, Zibdie generated more than $930,000 in lab business for BLS.
The investigation has thus far resulted in 50 convictions – 36 of them doctors – in connection with the bribery scheme, which its organizers have admitted involved millions of dollars in bribes and resulted in more than $100 million in payments to BLS from Medicare and various private insurance companies. It is believed to be the largest number of medical professionals ever prosecuted in a bribery case.
The investigation has to date recovered more than $13 million through forfeiture. On June 28, 2016, BLS, which is no longer operational, pleaded guilty and was required to forfeit all of its assets.
The Travel Act charges to which each of the five doctors pleaded guilty is punishable by a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison. It also carries a maximum $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
The conspiracy to engage in bribery charge and Federal Anti-Kickback Statute violations to which Zibdie pleaded guilty are punishable by a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison. The honest services wire fraud charges and conspiracy to commit money laundering charges to which Zibdie pleaded guilty are punishable by a maximum potential penalty of twenty years in prison. Each count also carries a maximum $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
The sentencings for all five defendants have been scheduled for December 6.
Acting U.S. Attorney William E. Fitzpatrick credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Timothy Gallagher in Newark; inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge James V. Buthorn; IRS–Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan D. Larsen; and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Scott J. Lampert with the ongoing investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Alfonzo Walsman, Senior Litigation Counsel Joseph N. Minish and Jacob T. Elberg, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Health Care and Government Fraud Unit in Newark, as well as Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara Ward, Acting Chief of the office’s Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Unit.
The New Jersey U.S. Attorney’s Office reorganized its health care fraud practice in 2010 and created a stand-alone Health Care and Government Fraud Unit to handle both criminal and civil investigations and prosecutions of health care fraud offenses. Since that time, the office has recovered more than $1.34 billion in health care fraud and government fraud settlements, judgments, fines, restitution and forfeiture under the False Claims Act, the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and other statutes.
Susan Kruger joins RPA Insurance Services
PARSIPPANY — RPA Insurance Services announced Susan Kruger has joined the firm as the Head of Claims for Innovative Coverage Concepts (ICC) and Restaurant Programs of America (RPA). Kruger adds over twenty-five years of insurance experience, including fifteen years of experience managing national accounts, loss sensitive programs and third party administrator (TPA) relationships.
RPA Insurance Services is located at 8 Wood Hollow Road and has branch offices in suburban Philadelphia, Florida, Colorado, Connecticut, California, Missouri, and North Carolina.
“Susan’s skills and experience handling complex claims and structured settlements enable us to offer additional advocacy, advice and technical knowledge to our clients,” said Leslie Nylund, Chief Operating Officer for ICC and RPA. “She has a wide range of experience in multiple product lines, including workers’ compensation, from some of the top firms in the insurance industry. We’re pleased to have her on board with ICC and RPA.”
Prior to joining ICC, Kruger was Vice President responsible for claims management at Integro a global insurance broker ranked among the 25 largest US brokerage firms by Business Insurance. Prior to that she held various positions of increasing responsibility at global insurer, AIG.
Innovative Coverage Concepts, LLC (ICC) is a premier, national managing general agency (MGA) focused exclusively on developing and delivering specialized insurance programs for the hospitality industry and restaurants of all types, including fine dining, casual dining, bars, taverns and night clubs. ICC is distinguished by its custom risk management solutions and its innovative processes and technologies developed to assist clients in reducing risk and controlling claims costs and well as streamlining business processes.
Restaurant Programs of America (RPA) is a national retail insurance agency focused on providing quality business insurance products and services to specialized market segments, including hospitality and restaurant risks, throughout the United States.
Red Cross Offers Tips for a Fun and Safe Fourth of July
PARSIPPANY — Fourth of July is right around the corner and Parsippany residents as well as many other residents will be spending the holiday weekend firing up the backyard grill, traveling or enjoying one of the state’s many beaches, lakes and pools. The American Red Cross offers a series of steps everyone can follow to safely enjoy the holiday.
“Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or headed to the shore, the American Red Cross has tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe while enjoying the Fourth of July holiday,” said Ana Montero, CEO, American Red Cross New Jersey Region.
WATER SAFETY Many New Jerseyans may be planning swimming and other water-related activities for the Fourth of July. The Red Cross encourages everyone to make water safety a priority as they enjoy pools or any of the state’s beaches, lakes and rivers.
1. Ensure everyone in your family knows how to swim and only swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.
2. Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone.
3. For a backyard pool, have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets and a first aid kit.
4. If someone plans to swim in the ocean, they should always check weather conditions before going in the water.
5. Be aware of the danger of rip currents. If caught in one, swim parallel to the shore until out of the current. When free, turn and swim toward shore. If unable to swim to the shore, call out for help, float or tread water until free of the rip current and then head toward shore.
GRILLING SAFETY Every year people are injured while using charcoal or gas grills. Here are several steps to safely cook up treats for the backyard barbecue:
1. Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
2. Never grill indoors – not in the house, camper, tent, or any enclosed area.
3. Make sure everyone, including the pets, stays away from the grill.
4. Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.
5. Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.
HIGHWAY SAFETY Millions of people will be on the highways over the Fourth of July weekend. The Red Cross offers these five things everyone should do to stay safe while traveling:
1. Buckle seat belts, observe speed limits.
2. Do not drink and drive.
3. Pay full attention to the road – don’t use a cell phone to call or text.
4. Use caution in work zones.
5. Clean the vehicle’s lights and windows to help the driver see, especially at night. Turn the headlights on as dusk approaches, or during inclement weather.
EMERGENCY APP People can download the free Red Cross Emergency App to receive severe weather watches and warnings in their local area, at travel destinations and where loved ones live. “Family Safe” is a unique feature that allows app users to notify family and friends who are in an area affected by an emergency or disaster. First Aid steps for situations such as heart attacks, heat-related emergencies and water safety information are also included. The content is available in English and Spanish. The app can be downloaded from app stores by searching for “American Red Cross” or by clicking here.
Shoplifters nabbed after passerby alerted police
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrol Officer Z. Koch was assisting at a medical call at 4:00 p.m. on June 24 at Home Depot when he was alerted by a passerby that a male was possibly shoplifting at Modell’s Sporting Goods Store.
He advised a nearby patrol unit of the information and as they arrived on scene, they observed a male matching the given description running through the parking lot and get into the passenger seat of a 2011 Nissan Rogue.
At this time Patrol Officer Z. Koch was able to get back to his patrol vehicle and initiate a motor vehicle stop on the vehicle as it attempted to drive away.
After a brief investigation by Patrol Officer Koch, G. Bloete and J. Seeger, the passenger, Gregoria Calvo, 47, Union City, and driver, Jose Nunez, 39, Union City, were placed under arrest for multiple offenses and transported to Parsippany Police Headquarters.
While at Parsippany Police Headquarters, the investigation continued with the assistance of Detective A. Morelli. Officers located numerous pieces of stolen merchandise inside the 2011 Nissan Rogue belonging to the Parsippany Home Depot.
The two males were subsequently charged with the following:
Jose Nunez was charged on a Complaint-Summons with one count of Third Degree Theft by Unlawful Taking of Movable Property and one count of Third Degree Conspiracy to Commit Shoplifting.
He was released on his own recognizance.
Gregorio Calvo was charged on a Complaint-Warrant with one count of Third Degree Shoplifting (Modell’s Sporting Goods), one count of Third Degree Shoplifting (Home Depot), one count of Third Degree Unlawful Taking of Movable Property, one count of Fourth Degree Hindering Apprehension (Initially gave a fake name to officers) and one count of Third Degree Conspiracy to Commit Shoplifting.
He was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his court date.
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.
Another Vehicle broken in at LA Fitness
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers responded to LA Fitness, 1159 Route 46, for a reported burglary to a vehicle at 6:23 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27.
Upon speaking to the victim they were advised that his 2014 BMW 320i was broken and a bag containing electronics and a watch was removed from the vehicle.
This incident remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Police Department’s Investigative Division at (973) 263-4311.
Car stolen from Baldwin Manor found at Holiday Inn
PARSIPPANY — Patrol Officer G. Cacioppo responded to a reported vehicle theft in the Baldwin Manor Apartments located at 200 Baldwin Road. Upon his arrival, he spoke to the victim who advised him between 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27 and 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 28 someone stole his vehicle. The vehicle that was stolen was a 2006 Chevrolet Impala.
The vehicle was subsequently located unoccupied on Thursday, June 29 at 10:34 a.m at the Holiday Inn, 707 Route 46
This incident remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Police Department’s Investigative Division at (973) 263-4311.
Fired employee returns and threatens employees
PARSIPPANY — Multiple Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers responded to a report of a male attacking people at FarmPlast, 125 East Halsey Road at 5:10 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27. Upon arrival of Officers, Gregory Radzyuk, 46, Brooklyn, NY, was being restrained by employees in the parking lot.
After a brief investigation it was determined that Mr. Radzyuk was just released from his job and told not to return.
After being told not to return Mr. Radzyuk went back into the building with a large sheathed knife and grabbed a female employee by the arm. While grabbing the victim, he threatened to physically harm her, at which time another employee was able to restrain and disarm Mr. Radzyuk.
Mr. Radzyuk was placed under arrest and transported by Par-Troy Emergency Medical Services to Saint Clares Hospital for a minor injury he received prior to the officers arrival.
Once cleared from the Hospital he was transported to the Parsippany Police Department and processed. While there, he was charged with one count of Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, one count of Fourth Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, one count of Third Degree Terroristic Threats and one count of Defiant Trespass a Petty Disorderly Persons Offense.
He was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his court date.
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.
Editors correction: It was previously reported that the incident occurred at J D Carton & Son. This information was incorrect. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
Quick acting police officer arrests driver for DWI
PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, June 24 at 12:38 a.m. Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers responded to the area of 450 Norht Beverwyck Road for a reported intoxicated female attempting to drive away. Upon arrival of responding Officers, they located the vehicle, a 2002 Honda Accord, in a nearby parking lot, occupied by the driver, parked diagonally in a space, and running. Upon making contact with the driver, identified as Lisa Alessandra, 50, Parsippany,
Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrol Officer Ryan Taylor detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from Ms. Alessandra.
After a brief investigation she was placed under arrest and transported to Parsippany Police Headquarters.
She was processed and charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Reckless Driving.
She was released on her own recognizance pending her court date.
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.
Quick police work apprehends female causing a disturbance
PARSIPPANY — Officers responded to the Walgreens on a disturbance at 3:49 p.m. on Friday, June 23. While responding Officers were advised that the female suspect was in a 2003 Lincoln Town Car. Upon arrival of Officers, they observed the vehicle attempting to leave the area and conducted a motor vehicle stop on it.
Patrol Officer Ryan Taylor began to speak to the female, who identified herself as “Megan Cerza.”
After further investigation it was revealed her real name was Natasha Walsh, 23, Bronx, NY.
After speaking to the involved parties it was determined Ms. Walsh was having difficulties completing a Western Union Transaction at which time she got into a verbal argument with store employees and threw a hand sanitizer bottle at them, which did not hit anyone.
She was subsequently placed under arrest and transported to Parsippany Police Headquarters.
While there, she was processed and charged with the following: one count in the fourth Degree of Hindering Apprehension, one count of Disorderly Conduct a Petty Disorderly Persons Offense.
She was released on her own recognizance pending her court date.
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.
Hillside man arrested for theft at LA Fitness; Committed fraud on credit cards
PARSIPPANY — On January 23, 2017 at 9:26 p.m. Patrol Officer C. DeLoatch responded to the Parsippany Police Department’s lobby to speak with the victim of a vehicle burglary.
While speaking to the victim, it was determined that between 5:45 p.m. and 7:20 p.m. an unknown suspect gained access to her vehicle parked at LA Fitness, 1159 Route 46, and stole her purse and gym bag.
She did not realize at the time her purse was stolen and went to her residence. Once at her residence she received multiple transaction alerts from different credit card companies totaling over $4000.00 at which time she responded to Police Headquarters to report the incident.
After a brief investigation Detective M. McAuliffe was able to identify the suspect as Marshall Moreira, 23, Hillside.
A Complaint-Warrant for Third Degree Burglary and a Complaint-Summons for Third Degree Credit Card Theft were issued for his arrest on Thursday, June 22.
He was subsequently arrested on Monday, June 26 by Hillside Police Department and transported to the Parsippany Police Headquarters for processing.
Once processed he was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his court date.
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.
Parsippany resident arrested for Wendy’s break-in
PARSIPPANY — On Thursday, June 22, with the assistance of Denville Police Department’s Detective Bureau, Det. J. Pledger identified Quincy Penn, 26, Parsippany, as the suspect in a burglary on Monday, June 19 at Wendy’s, 2099 Route 46.
He was subsequently arrested and charged on a Complaint-Warrant with the following: Burglary in the third degree and Criminal Mischief (a Disorderly Persons Offense).
He was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his court appearance.
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.
Freeholders Consent to Lease Morris View
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders last night passed a resolution consenting to the lease of the Morris View Healthcare Center, and authorizing the Morris County Improvement Authority to finalize an agreement with Allaire Healthcare Group of Freehold to lease the facility.
The MCIA expects to conclude negotiations with Allaire in the coming weeks. The private company should take over Morris View operations in the fall.
The tentative contract calls for Allaire to pay the county $2.3 million annually, to lease Morris View, which is a 283-bed county owned and operated nursing home and sub-acute rehabilitation facility located in Morris Township.
The initial proposal submitted by Allaire included providing Morris County $2.7 million per year. During contract negotiations, Morris County’s Proposal Review Committee recommended that staffing and program enhancements at Morris View, which were identified as priorities by residents and family members, be incorporated into the final contract.
The Freeholder Board’s commitment to ensure quality of resident care concurred with these enhancements and reduced the annual lease payment by $400,000, to $2.3 million.
Combined with a reduction in costs to the county to operate Morris View, the $2.3 million annual lease could result in an initial total annual savings to Morris County taxpayers of $4 million to $6 million, and up to $8 million a year by the end of the decade.
However, even with the positive financial outlook, the freeholders stressed again yesterday that a continued high quality of patient care will be essential to the continuation of any lease arrangement.
“It is important to note that during the lease agreement Morris County will continue to own Morris View and we will closely monitor the quality of care offered by Allaire,’’ said Freeholder Director Doug Cabana. “The health and welfare of the residents at Morris View remains our priority.’’
Meanwhile, in the short term, Allaire will assume management of Morris View starting on July 1. That is when the county’s existing management contract for Morris View with Premier Healthcare expires.
However, during the interim period, and until the lease arrangement with Allaire takes effect in the fall, the county remains ultimately responsible for day-to-day operations and decisions regarding Morris View.
Allaire CEO Ben Kurland and Director of Care Management Brie Gallo briefed the Morris County Freeholders on his company’s current operations and plans for Morris View.
Kurland said Allaire expects to retain most of the current Morris View staff, has already begun a continuing dialogue with patients’ families, will meet quarterly with county officials to review operations, and has begun a dialogue with hospitals and the medical community in Morris County.
In addition, Kurland said Allaire will emphasize continuing education for the staff and administration, with an emphasis on new technology. He also promised an enhanced slate of programs and activities for patients.
“This is their home – it needs to run like a cruise ship for them,’’ Kurland said. “We may not be the county, but we hope to be the best alternative to running Morris View for our residents.’’
In May, with approval of the Freeholders, the MCIA selected Allaire as the company best qualified from eight applicants to lease and run Morris View based on evaluation criteria approved by the State Comptrollers’ Office. Factors considered by the panel, included staffing capabilities, operational practices, quality control, and financial viability.
Allaire previously purchased and is successfully operating the former Monmouth County John L. Montgomery nursing home, a 174-bed facility that had been owned and managed by Monmouth County government.
For more information on Morris View click here. For more information on the Allaire Healthcare Group click here.
247 Seniors receive diplomas at Parsippany High School
PARSIPPANY — The Class of 2017 was special for Dr. Denis Mulroony. Dr. Mulroony arrived to Parsippany High School to begin his career as Principal with the incoming freshman class four years ago. This graduating class was with Dr. Mulroony for their entire high school year.
The Class of 2017 Officers were Matthew Michalik, President; Alexandra Tymikiw, Vice President; Zahary Imp, Secretary and Spencer Huang, Treasurer.
The Parsippany High School Class of 2017 consisted of 247 graduates. The graduates in alphabetical order are:
Mathew Acosta
Alissa Delia Afonso
K waku Osei Agyemang
Sania Ahmed
Esra Iman Ahmedi
Sarang Amin
Daniel Arguelles Rojas
Gianna Amanda Arnaldy
Mujtaba M. Aslamy
Harold Guya Atienza
Mar Jan Fernando Atienza
Timur Atabek Ayaz
Rony Antonio Bailey
Elias A. Bakhtiar
Kevin A. Benjamin
Ashley Victoria Deloris Bethune
Nikhiya Binu
Maria Birth
Kyle Steven Braen
Caitlin Josephine Brennan
Cinthia Marie Brown
Spencer Jeffrey Budd
John Michael Burk
Pavlo Busko
Anthony John Caccavale
Courtney Lynn Calabrese
Sean Peter Callaghan
Madison Carden
Emily Amanda Carlos
Alyssa Marie Carriero
Jenna Rose Cecere
Natee Chada
Chania Chambers
Chennelle T. Chambers
Alan S. Chapman
Jielu Chen
Nina Zhow Chen
Will Chen
Catherine Ann Chiarolanza
Ravi Nilesh Chothani
Michael F. Colasuonno
Nicolas Allen Colella
Max Paredes Corbel
Victoria Antoinette Coronel
Jacob William Curley
Adriana Nicole Di Dio
Brandon Carmen Diaz
Brittany Olivia Diefenbach
Victoria Dobkowski
Matthew Emanuel Doyle
Alexis Marie Dressendorfer
Esraa Farag
Ithaley J. Feliz
Alyssa Nicole Feola
Cristina Marie Fernandez
Fernando Jerod Fernandez
Antonieta Ferrou
Fallon Rose Fleitstra
Joshua Thomas Flood
Ryley James Foley
Arielle Fortes
Vijay Ganti
Sammy Yuan Gao
Mariangel Garcia
Kyle Richard Gaydo
Matthew William Gencarelli
Riya H. Gheewala
Stephen Thomas Giercyk
Rosina Assunta Giordano
Nathalia Giraldo
Rebecca Elizabeth Goddard
Philip Jerrard Gohn
Natalie Gongora
Joshua Ari Gonzalez
Oscar Stanley Gonzalez
Victoria Mei Gu
Emily Guzman
Matthew Michael Haeussler
Miki Olivia Hansen
Anthony Randell Hill
Alyssa Rae Hockey
Robert M. Hockey
Ryan Joseph Hoeler
Jennifer Huang
Spencer Huang
Isaiah Nathaniel Hulse-Carr
Joshua J. Hyatt
Crystal lannetta
Michael Anthony Ilic
Zachary Connor Imp
Li-Hsuan Inn
Abulfazel Iqbal
La-Sanya A.M. James
Dylon Kuver Jamna
Julianna Jara
Justin Owen Jennings
Angelica Ji
Brooke Jones
Cassidy Lynn Jordan
Jenkens Watson Josaphat
Michael Kastrunis
Rohan Singh Khajuria
Rebecca Paige Klausner
Jarrett Connor Kuhn
Kenan Abraham Kwaja
Vivian Kwong
Dominique La Capra
Isidra Elena Labady
Priya Bahu Lad
Eric Yunhau Lai
Jasana Lamichhane
Melissa Langdon
Michelle A. Ledezma
Salena Nicole LeDonne
Megan Ashley Leitner
Janivel Leo
Tyler A. Leon
Kevin Leon-Appelgren
Nicole M. Lepore
Joshua Levine
Kiera Alexandra Lewis
Christine Bewin Li
William Lozada
Melisa Lozada-Hernandez
Rebecca Jean Maciag
Purvang Mahadevia
Haider Abdul Malik
Divij Malkani
Likitha Mamillapalli
Pooja Manhas
Teniya S. Manu
Matthew John Marinas
Marta Markowska
Jake Robert Marlowe
Shahina Mashrabi
Emil Ryan Matti
Jennifer Mazo
Brandon Matthew McGrath
Veronica Yrene Mendoza
Thomas John Mercado
Matthew Stephen Michalik
Kavin M. Mistry
Eddie Morales
Toni Ann Moran
Deepika R. Nagabhushan
Alisalimon Naibzada
Dean A. Naranjo
Taylor Madison Newman
Nicholas Ng
Sean M. O’Donnell
Safiye M. Okuyan
James Patrick Tianes Osea
Shamshrita Pandey
Alessandra Stella Pantaleo
Akshat Parmar
Carly Theresa Pasquale
Arun Pasumpadiyar
Reema Patadia
Ohara D. Patel
Ohara S. Patel
Disha D. Patel
Heenal T. Patel
Krutiben Patel
Nidhee Patel
Purva Sureshkumar Patel
Ria Sundeep Patel
Yash J. Patel
Mohit Prakash Pathak
Vincent Anthony Pellicani
Donald T. Pham
Tingting Piao
Antonio Nino Piccininni
Michael Anthony Piccininni
Haley D. Pignatelli
Ilir Pilinci
Shivani R. Pipalia
Kevin Louis Piriano
Bilal Ashraf Potrik
Connor Daniel Preston
Dylan Pucilowski
Hamza Qureshi
Joseph Henry Radler
Priya T. Ranade
Amy Randazzo
Daniela Rengifo Marmolejo
Shereen Riad
Youssef M. T. Riad
Christian Daniel Riedinger
Salman Ali Rizvi
Raquelle Dianna Rocco
Riley Marie Rosa
Benjamin M. Rudolph
Joseph Gerard Ruggiero
Nicole Marie Ruggiero
Mitchell John Ryzuk, Jr.
Mursal Sakhi
N atalye Salazar
Sofia Marie Santana
Grace Marie Santangelo
Deepika Saravana
Somasundaram Saraswathy
Paul James Scalchi
Anthony John Scannelli
Ian Harris Schey
Eric D. Schlosser
Sabarish Selvarajan
Maitri Dhirendra Shah
Hannah Rose Shoshan
Param Bhavesh Shukla
Christina Rose Shultz
Abhinav Sinha
Alexa Nicole Skladany
Abigail Robin Smith
Alexis Marie Smith
Michael Nicholas Sorresse
Brooke Marie Steele
Kyle Alphonso Steele
Asia A. Tabili
Wyatt Tex Tassillo
Ryan A. Torres
Lilian Tran
Kevin Lu Tsai
Alexandra Lila Tymikiw
Jeffrey Joel Umanzor
Bener Deniz Uygun
Mansi Sanjay Vaghela
Ann Marie G. Van Es
Jessica Jo-Ann Vargas
Joan Manuel Vasquez, Jr.
Alberto J. Vega
Morgan Ashley Villopoto
Hetasvi S. Vyas
Rolksar Fatima Wafa
Sarah Nicole Waffenfeld
Zayn Abdul Wahab
Katie A. Walker
Daniel T. Wang
Linzhe Wang
Amir Timothy Watson
Jeffrey Michael Wear
Ryan Edmund Weiss
Victoria Ann Wilhalme
Jackson T. Wolfe
Christina Xu
Katherine Yuwei Yang
Fatima H. Yaqoobi
Sabria Yaqoobi
Lillian Ye
Furkan Yildirim
Sena Z. Yuksel
Katelyn Rose Ziskind
Open House at Vision Loss Alliance Showcases How IPhones/IPads Open Door to Independence
MORRIS COUNTY — IPhones and iPads are empowering people with vision loss, providing them technological tools to more easily manage daily living.
Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey, one of the longest-serving nonprofits for adults with vision loss, will host an open house on Tuesday, July 11 to showcase its 13-week technology program.
The training teaches people how to use their iPhones and iPads to read food labels, organize cash, read emails and letters, download audiobooks and apps, record voice memos, identify color of clothing, and more.
“I feel like I have so much independence because of this phone,” said Vision Loss Alliance participant Ursula Rucki.
The open house, featuring a iPhone/iPad demonstration, will be held 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Vision Loss Alliance’s Denville location, 155 Morris Avenue. The event is free but registration is required. Call (973) 627-0055, ext. 1312 or send an email to programs@vlanj.org to sign up.
Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey, formerly NJ Foundation for the Blind, offers a full continuum of programs that address each stage of adjustment to vision loss in a friendly, supportive environment in Denville. Wellness programs, including yoga, horticultural therapy, Djembe drumming and fitness classes are also offered in Montclair and Ridgewood.
The National Eye Institute estimates that more than 13 million U.S. residents will have some type of vision impairment by 2050.
ABOUT VISION LOSS ALLIANCE OF NEW JERSEY
Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey is a 501(c)(3) that provides practical training and emotional support to help those who have experienced profound vision loss regain self-esteem and self-reliance. Since its founding in 1943, Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey has used a holistic approach to empower those with profound vision loss to live engaged, productive and independent lives. Click here for more information.
Parsippany High School Senior Awards Presentation
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High School Senior Awards Assembly was held on Thursday, June 8. Hundreds of Scholarships and Awards were presented to the Graduating Seniors.
PHS holds this annual event held a few weeks before the end of the school year. It is an event to showcase the awards, honors, and scholarships received, colleges/universities the seniors will be attending, and community services performed by the senior student.
During this inspirational evening, many hard-working and talented seniors were honored for outstanding academic and extracurricular performance, and for service to the school and community. The awards were a surprise to the seniors. Recognition was given for a wide variety of scholarships, prizes and commendations awarded to PHS students by the school, local businesses and non-profit groups.
| National Merit Finalists | Rohan Khajuria Daniel Wang |
| National Merit Commended Students | Natee Chada Will Chen Victoria Gu Miki Hansen Spencer Huang Vivian Kwong Salman Rizvi Param Shukla Abhinav Sinha Kevin Tsai Katherine Yang |
| PHS Top 25 Students | Miki Hansen Katherine Yang Christina Xu Ryan Hoeler Eric Schlosser Salman Rizvi Daniel Wang Param Shukla Spencer Huang Rohan Khajuria Alexandra Tymikiw Victoria Gu Raquelle Rocco Deepika Nagabhushan Nina Chen Zachary Imp Lillian Ye Sabarish Selvarajan Deepika Saravana Somasundaram Saraswathy Sammy Gao Ravi Chothani Abhinav Sinha Likitha Mamillapalli Jennifer Huang Rebecca Goddard |
| PHS Valedictorian Award | Miki Hansen |
| PHS Salutatorian Award | Katherine Yang |
| The Joe Windish Parsippany Education Foundation Scholarship | Megan Leitner |
| Dr. Vincent Aniello Peer Buddy Scholarships | Tyler Leon Nicole Lepore Josh Levine Ryan Torres Jessica Vargas Ryan Weiss |
| Hebberd’s Heroes | Nathalia Giraldo Sarah Waffenfeld |
| George P. Johnson Memorial Scholarship | Cristina Fernandez |
| Tom Ladas Memorial Scholarship | Katelyn Ziskind |
| Parsippany Indian Association Scholarship | Param Shukla |
| The Dr. Frank A. Calabria Memorial Scholarship | Matthew Marinas |
| Patricia Ann Behnke Memorial Scholarship | Matthew Marinas |
| Sunrise Shoprite Continuing Education Grant | Cristina Fernandez |
| John “Cap” Capsouras Memorial Award | Dominique La Capra |
| Police Benevolent Association Scholarship | Matthew Marinas |
| Parsippany Republican Club Scholarship | Grace Santangelo |
| Sons of Italy, Michael Barnhart Memorial Scholarship | Michael Colasuonno Megan Leitner Thomas Mercado |
| Samuel Kaplan American Legion | Miki Hansen |
| George Bohr Achievement Award | Harold Atienza Alberto Vega |
| Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Scholarship | Jennifer Huang Miki Hansen |
| The Kanai Lal and Charu Bala Memorial | Miki Hansen Ryan Hoeler |
| The Love Like Ashley Memorial Fund Scholarship | Matthew Marinas |
| Montville Unico | Kyle Gaydo Megan Leitner |
| Troy-Hills Memorial Post #10184 VFW | lan Schey |
| The Valori Family Scholarship | Matthew Marinas Dhara S. Patel |
| Stephen S. Martino Memorial Scholarship | Kevin Leon-Appelgren Mitchell Ryzuk |
| Woman’s Club of Parsippany Scholarship | Adriana Di Dio Dhara S. Patel Grace Santangelo Asia Tabili Alexandra Tymikiw Lillian Ye |
| Parsippany-Troy Hills Senior Citizens Scholarship | Jennifer Huang |
| Morris County College Fair Committee | Nathalia Giraldo Antonieta Ferrou |
| Central Middle School Faculty Scholarship | Lilian Tran |
| Parsippany High School Faculty Scholarship | Pooja Manhas Youssef Riad Salman Rizvi |
| The Dora B. Stolfi Memorial Scholarship Alpha Delta Kappa/Mu Chapter | Sarah Waffenfeld |
| MCPCA Caring Student Award | Kyle Gaydo |
| Project Graduation Slogan & Artwork | Michelle Inn |
| Gard and Anne O’Harra Scholarship | Sean Callaghan |
| Wegmans Scholarship Program | Michelle Inn |
| Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Award | Lillian Ye |
| Student Council Awards | Nikhiya Binu Cristina Fernandez Rebecca Goddard Zachary Imp Rebecca Klausner Alexis Smith Michael Sorresse Alexandra Tymikiw Jackson Wolfe Fatima Yaqoobi |
| Parents of Gifted & Talented Scholarship (PGT) | Shubha Kapuganti |
| Troy Hills School Alumni Scholarship | Sarah Waffenfeld |
| Lake Hiawatha School Alumni Scholarship | Grace Santangelo |
| Northvail School Alumni Scholarship | Thomas Mercado Ryan Weiss |
| Rockaway Meadow School Alumni Scholarship | Nathalia Giraldo |
| Knollwood-Melvin Roth Memorial Scholarship | Victoria Dobkowski |
| Parsippany-Troy Hills PTSA | Cristina Fernandez Megan Leitner Matthew Marinas Thomas Mercado Param Shukla Alexandra Tymikiw |
| Emil Johnson Vocational Scholarship | Janivel Leo |
| Rocco A. Cerbo Memorial Scholarship | Joshua Flood |
| Excellence for School Success Scholarship | Alyssa Hockey Natalye Salazar |
| Exceptional Ceramic Artist | Esra Ahmedi Cassidy Jordan |
| Fine Arts Award | Courtney Calabrese Julianna Jara |
| Outstanding Photographer | Marta Markowska Riley Rosa |
| Visual Design Award | Thomas Mercado Reema Patadia |
| Outstanding Senior English Student | Katherine Yang |
| Excellence in Journalism | Spencer Budd |
| Senior Drama Award | Carly Pasquale |
| Totem Award | Salena LeDonne |
| Voice in Writing Award | Natee Chada |
| Excellence in Biological Science | Katherine Yang |
| Excellence in Chemistry | Miki Hansen |
| Excellence in Physics | Ryan Heeler |
| Excellence in Mathematics | Ryan Hoeler Eric Schlosser |
| Math Team Award | Daniel Wang |
| Math Student of the Year | Miki Hansen |
| High Note Awards | Catherine Chiarolanza Joshua Gonzalez |
| PHS Choral Parents Association Scholarship | Joshua Flood Raquelle Rocco |
| PHS Band Boosters Association Scholarship | Will Chen Nicolas Colella Tess Franchini Miki Hansen Mitchell Ryzuk Alexandra Tymikiw Katherine Yang |
| Eddie Jackson Memorial Scholarship | Mitchell Ryzuk |
| Mt. Tabor Outstanding Music Award | Nicolas Colella |
| Civics Award | Alberto Vega |
| Excellence in Writing Award | Katherine Yang |
| “Theodore Roosevelt Award” Outstanding Social Studies Student | Raquelle Rocco |
| Excellence in French | Daniel Wang |
| Excellence in Italian | Ryan Hoeler |
| Excellence in Spanish | Christina Xu |
| Outstanding Physical Education | Joshua Flood Raquelle Rocco |
| Parsippany Soccer Club Scholarship | Maria Birth Crystal Iannetta Jackson Wolfe |
| Par-Troy Little League East Scholarship | Caitlin Brennan Alyssa Feola Megan Leitner Joshua Levine Emil Matt Connor Preston Bener Uygun Sarah Waffenfeld Ryan Weiss |
| U.S. Army Reserve National Scholar/Athletics Award | Cristina Fernandez Bener Uygun |
| U.S. Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award | Kwaku Agyemang Lilian Tran |
| Northwest Jersey Athlete Conference Award | Megan Leitner Eric Schlosser |
| NJSIAA Scholar Athlete | John Burk |
| The Michael R. Codella Female/Male MVP Trophy | Salena LeDonne Emil Matti |
| Morris County Scholar/Athlete Award | Michael Ilic Haley Pignatelli |
| Red Hawk Awards | Kwaku Agyemang John Burk Anthony Caccavale Nicolas Colella Cristina Fernandez Spencer Huang Michael Ilic Dominique La Capra Salena LeDonne Kiera Lewis Rebecca Maciag Emil Matti Haley Pignatelli Christian Riedinger Eric Schlosser Alexis Smith Lilian Tran Bener Uygun Sarah Waffenfeld Jeffrey Wear |