Families, Friends Cheer Young Adults Who Achieved Academic Success Through NewBridge’s Alternative Education Program

Frank L. Cahill
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Families, Friends Cheer Young Adults Who Achieved Academic Success Through NewBridge’s Alternative Education Program

PARSIPPANY — The year after she dropped out of Lenape Valley High School, Leilani Reyes’ younger sister faced a similar fate. Cassandra Reyes, who had become a mother just months earlier, learned last June she didn’t have enough credits to graduate. The NewBridge Parsippany Center is located at 1259 Route 46.

Determined to earn her New Jersey High School diploma, the younger Reyes enrolled in NewBridge Jobs Plus, an alternative education program that helped her achieve her goal in short order and encouraged her to pursue plans to become a nurse.

“I was really proud of her, and I thought, if she can do it while raising a child, why can’t I?” Leilani Reyes said. With NewBridge Jobs Plus’ help, the 21-year-old earned her high school diploma too, and in September she’ll attend attend County College of Morris to study criminal justice.

The Reyes sisters are among 49 young adults in NewBridge Jobs Plus Class of 2017. On June 15, more than 30 of them donned caps and gowns at Wyndham Worldwide headquarters, as more than 200 relatives and friends cheered them on.

“You’ve shown that you are in control. The only thing left to do is rise up!” said keynote speaker James Bryant, supervisor of youth workforce programs at Morris/Sussex/Warren Employment and Training Services, one of the funders of NewBridge Jobs Plus.

Morris County’s longest-running alternative education program

NewBridge Jobs Plus is the longest-running alternative education program in Morris County and has helped well over 1,000 young adults earn their high school diplomas and prepare for college, trade schools and careers since 1983. The program, located at the NewBridge Parsippany Center, is free to young adults living in Morris, Sussex and Warren counties, and transportation is provided to Morris County residents.

This year’s graduates hail from: Parsippany-Troy Hills, Budd Lake, Cedar Knolls, Dover, Hackettstown, Hopatcong, Kinnelon, Lake Hiawatha, Lake Hopatcong, Landing, Ledgewood, Morristown, Netcong, NewFoundland, Oak Ridge, Pinebrook, Randolph, Rockaway, Roxbury, Succasunna and Wharton.

“NewBridge helped me learn to be independent. I learned to work at my own pace to achieve my goals,” said Cassandra Reyes, who received the $1,000 James Ryan Memorial Scholarship Award, given in honor of the NewBridge founder. The 18-year-old will soon start at Montclair State University.

‘Now I’m so hopeful for them’

“There has been a lot of pain in our family, but now I’m so hopeful for them, for their future,” said Mirna Reyes, the singe mother of Cassandra and Leilani and three other adult children. “I’ve told them, just keep going!”

Roberto Cuevas left Morristown High School in February after his single mother became ill and was unable to work. Cuevas worked two jobs, one full-time, to help support his mother, three brothers and a sister. Through NewBridge Jobs Plus, he earned his diploma and will enroll at County College of Morris for the fall semester. He plans to transfer to a four-year college after he gets his associates degree to study biotechnology.

“If it weren’t for NewBridge, I would be stuck on repeat,” said the 19-year-old, who was awarded the $1,000 Wyndham Worldwide Scholarship. “I’d keep working jobs just to pay for what we need in the house. I wouldn’t have a plan.”

Career options
Jesenia Chaparro, 22, of Budd Lake, moved to New Jersey from Puerto Rico at age 15, and a year later she dropped out of school. “I didn’t speak the language well,” she recalled. By 17, she was a mother and worked at low-paying jobs. Married with two children, Chaparro said she enrolled in NewBridge Jobs Plus in March “for our kids, for a better future.” She was awarded the $1,000 Lakeland Bank Scholarship Award.

“They were so supportive and flexible,” she said of the instructors. NewBridge Jobs Plus Career and College Counselor Jill Worrall helped Chaparro apply to Berkeley College, where she’ll study to become a surgical technician in September.

Veronica Fernandez quit Dover High School because she missed too many days. On a friend’s suggestion, she enrolled at NewBridge Jobs Plus, and she found her niche with the small-class setting and supportive staff.

“They give you so much motivation!” Fernandez said. Worrall helped her explore career options, and now Fernandez plans to become a registered nurse. “I had no plans, but I went to NewBridge and now I’ve got it figured out,” the 20-year-old said. “I am proud of myself. I feel like I can take on the world!” she said to a burst of applause.

Rashawn Blake, 19, had gotten into trouble in high school in Essex County and had to leave during his senior year. When he got to NewBridge Jobs Plus, “they helped me want to further my education,” he said. Blake is pursuing a music career, but until he attended NewBridge, he didn’t see the need for college. The Montville resident plans to study business at County College of Morris starting in September. Blake was honored as a NewBridge Jobs Plus Associate of the Year.

‘I wanted to do it for my mom’

Roxbury resident Nicholas Ferro was determined to walk across a stage to receive a diploma for his mother’s sake. Traditional high school didn’t suit Ferro, but he said “I would have stayed and been miserable” at Dover High School had he not found NewBridge Jobs Plus. Ferro’s six older siblings had gotten high school GEDs; not one attended a commencement. “I wanted to do it for my mom,” he said.

“I cried. It’s been a long road,” said his mother, Nicole Dickerson, giving Ferro a squeeze. The 18-year-old plans to study agribusiness at County College of Morris.

“When traditional high school failed them, these young men and women didn’t give up on themselves. They persevered and succeeded, and we are confident they have the grit and optimism to pursue their dreams,” NewBridge CEO Robert L. Parker said.

In addition to Morris/Sussex/Warren Employment & Training Services, NewBridge Jobs Plus receives funding from: Affinity Federal Credit Union; John Bickford Foundation; Community Foundation of New Jersey:Morris County Freeholders; Morris County Human Services;; TD Bank Charitable Foundation; Charles Emil Thenen Foundation; United Way of Northern New Jersey; and Wyndham Worldwide.

The rain didn’t stop kids at Kiwanis Touch-A-Truck

Frank L. Cahill
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The rain didn’t stop kids at Kiwanis Touch-A-Truck

PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany held it’s fifth annual “Touch-A-Truck,” on Saturday, June 17.  The morning was clear, but the clouds opened up with downpour rain during the entire event, but children still came to experience the fun of touching, riding, blowing horns, sirens at the Touch-A-Truck event.

Participating vendors included, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, Parsippany Office of Emergency Management, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire District 2, Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire District 3, Parsippany Volunteer Fire District 6, Parsippany Volunteer Fire District 5, Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance and Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad.

When the children visited the Parsippany Police Department they received a badge from Parsippany-Troy Hills Captain Thomas Carney. Captain Carney also gave the children a “TICKET” which summoned them to the Dairy at Lake Hiawatha for a free children ice cream cone.

Morris County Park Police and Morris County Office of Emergency Management also participated.

Also American Red Cross, US Customs and Border Protection Explorers Program, Enslins Car & Taxi, Jordan Transportation, Ultimate Party Bus and Limo, Parsippany Automotive, Team Sean Lemonade, Kona Ice, IHOP and Jose Catering. Patty Sweet Cakes Face Painting Balloons and DJ Jay Gee, and Laura Donnelly Face Painting participated

Parsippany Department of Public Works, Parsippany Parks and Forestry, M3 Crane, Rockaway Trucking, DeFalco’s Automotive & Towing and Ajaco Towing & Recovery provided vehicles for the children to learn more about.

Also participating was Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library, Lakeland Hills YMCA, Nano Gurus, Doreen Brennan Mary Kay, Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter.

This years chairman Nicolas Limanov said “It was a wonderful day watching all the children having fun, asking questions and taking pictures. I was happy to add many new and exciting vendors this year, and I expect to add even more for next year. I want to thank all the committee members who helped making this event very successful.”

When the children arrived, they received a “goodie” bag from Jersey Central Power and Light which contained items such as napkins from New Jersey Sharing Network and a free children’s meal compliments of IHOP. And when the children left, they received a bottle of “bubbles.”

All proceeds will be used by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation to support local projects that will “change the world one child and one community at a time”.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany would like to thank Stanbery Development, LLC. for donating the use of the property for such a successful event.

For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.

Arrest made in TD Bank robbery

Frank L. Cahill
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Arrest made in TD Bank robbery

MORRISTOWN —  Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Morristown Bureau of Police Chief Peter Demnitz announce the arrest of Zachary Zingale, 30, Morristown, on charges related to a bank robbery Friday morning at the TD Bank at 217 South Street, Morristown.

At  approximately 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 16, law enforcement was notified of the robbery. The subsequent investigation revealed that a male entered the bank, demanded money, threatened the use of a gun, and fled the scene in a vehicle.  A sum of money was taken during the incident.  Zingale was located near the bank shortly after the robbery. He then tried to flee on foot, but was taken into custody by officers with the Morristown Bureau of Police. 

Zingale was charged with one count of Robbery, a crime of the first degree, one count of Theft, a crime of the third degree, and one count of Resisting Arrest, a crime of the third degree.  Zingale was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility on a warrant-complaint in accordance with the Criminal Justice Reform Act.

Numerous law enforcement agencies assisted in the investigation, including the Morristown Bureau of Police, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office – Criminal Investigation Section, and the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

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.

 

Sarah Michele Orthwein graduates from James Madison University

Frank L. Cahill
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Sarah Michele Orthwein graduates from James Madison University

PARSIPPANY — Sarah Michele Orthwein of Lake Hiawatha graduated with a degree in media arts and design from James Madison University during the May 5, 2017 commencement exercises. Orthwein is a Parsippany High School Graduate Class of 2013.

Orthwein was among more than 4,300 students who received undergraduate, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degrees.

James Madison University offers each student a future of significance — not an education of mere prestige, but an extraordinary education of exceptional scholarship, inventive thinking, unparalleled attention to the world community, a university-wide enthusiasm for teaching, and a commitment to student success.

Dramatics Camp at PAL Youth Center Still Accepting Registrations

Frank L. Cahill
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Dramatics Camp at PAL Youth Center Still Accepting Registrations

PARSIPPANY — All Children’s Theatre is still accepting registrations for their Summer, 2017  Creative Dramatics day camp for children ages 6-17. The camp will be held  Monday-July 17 through Friday, July 28 at the PAL Youth Center, 33 Baldwin Road.

Initial registration deadline was June 1 but registrations will be accepted thereafter, space permitting.

The Creative Dramatics camp allows children to develop and create their own show, as well as the scenery, and culminate the camp with a performance of their work for family and friends. No prior theatre experience is required to register.  Space is limited!

The camp are directed by certified teachers who serve as instructors in the area of creative dramatics and scenery.

The camp is designed for, but not limited to, working area parents who are looking for a creative camp for their children. Sibling discounts are available. Parents may drop off their children between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and pick them up between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

AM and PM snacks are provided for all campers. The PAL Youth Center is air-conditioned with easy parking on site.

Interested parents may obtain more information as well as download a school year registration form by visiting the Theatre’s web site by clicking here. 

They may also e-mail the Theatre at allchildrensth@aol.com or call them at (973) 335-5328. Registration forms may be submitted by e-mail or by mailing them to All Children’s Theatre, PO Box 6328, Parsippany, NJ 07054.

All Children’s Theatre is a non-profit, tax-exempt, all kids’ performing arts organization established in Parsippany in 1983. The arts group has put on over 535 productions involving over 12,200 children during the past 34 years.  It has the distinctive honor of having put more kids on stage, year-round, from more cities, at more times, at more New Jersey locations, than any other arts group in the state. Their motto is — “Where Every Child Is a Star.”

Hofstra Congratulates Spring 2017 Dean’s List Students

Frank L. Cahill
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Hofstra Congratulates Spring 2017 Dean’s List Students

PARSIPPANY — Hofstra University congratulates the following local students named to the Spring 2017 Dean’s List for their outstanding academic achievement. Students must earn a grade point average of at least 3.5 during the semester to make the Dean’s List.

Ryan T. Byrne, a 2013 Graduate of Parsippany Hills High School and Gabriella Ferguson a 2016 Graduate of Parsippany High School were among the students on the Dean’s List.

Hofstra University is a nationally ranked private university just 25 miles from New York City and all its cultural, recreational and professional opportunities.

They offer small classes and personal attention with the resources, technology, and facilities of a large university. Students can chose from undergraduate and graduate offerings in liberal arts and sciences, business, engineering and applied science, communication, education, health sciences and human services, honors studies, the Maurice A. Deane School of Law, the Hofstra Northwell School of Graduate Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies, and the Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine. Named to the 2015 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, and the only school to host three consecutive presidential debates, Hofstra University is a dynamic community of more than 11,000 students known for civic engagement and public service.

Jaya Minhas Graduates from Albright College

Frank L. Cahill
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Jaya Minhas Graduates from Albright College

PARSIPPANY — Jaya Minhas, a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, Class of 2012, graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor of arts degree in French/Spanish; women’s & gender studies from Albright College on May 21, 2017.

Minhas was also inducted into the Society of Jacob Albright Scholars at a ceremony on May 20, 2017. Lifetime membership in the Society is awarded to graduates who have completed at least half their course work at Albright and who have a cumulative grade point average of 3.85 or higher.

Founded in 1856, Albright College educates creative, curious students to become adaptable, global citizens who discover and reach their full potential. The College’s flexible interdisciplinary curriculum encourages students to combine majors and disciplines to create individualized academic programs. Close faculty mentorship, numerous experiential learning options, and a diverse, supportive and nurturing community of scholars and learners help students exceed their own expectations and graduate with a commitment to a lifetime of service and learning. Located in Reading, Pennsylvania, Albright enrolls more than 1,800 full-time undergraduates and 700 adult learners and graduate students.

 

 

 

Parsippany resident charged with DWI and other offenses

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany resident charged with DWI and other offenses

PARSIPPANY — While patrolling North Beverwyck Road at 2:19 a.m.on Sunday, June 11, Patrol Officer J. Williams observed a 2002 Toyota Highlander commit multiple traffic violations, one of which was failing to stop at a red light on North Beverwyck Road at Vail Road.

Patrol Officer Williams activated his emergency lights and attempted to stop the vehicle. As the vehicle attempted to pull over it struck the curb several times. Once the vehicle stopped the Officer spoke to the driver, Fatema Iqbal, 40, Parsippany.

After a brief investigation Mrs. Iqbal was placed under arrest for Driving While Intoxicated. She was transported back to Police Headquarters for processing.

While there she was charged with the following traffic violations: Driving While Intoxicated, Reckless Driving, Obstruction of Windshield, Unsafe Lane Change, Throwing or Dropping, Debris from a Motor Vehicle, Fail to observe a Stop or Yield Sign, and Failure to Possess an Insurance Card.

She was released on her own recognizance to a sober adult pending her court appearance.

Butler man indicted for attempted murder of police officer, other crimes

Frank L. Cahill
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Butler man indicted for attempted murder of police officer, other crimes

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp has announced that a Morris County Grand Jury has returned two Indictments against Dylan Howard (aka Dylan Hannah) related to a series of crimes occurring in Butler between March 8 and March 31, 2016, including the Attempted Murder of a Butler patrol officer. 

On March 8 and March 9, it is alleged that Howard, 24, Butler, and co-defendant Michael Nelson conspired to commit the crime of Shoplifting at the Lowe’s Home Improvement store in Butler, both crimes of the fourth degree. Nelson is also charged by way of Indictment with two counts of fourth degree Theft by Deception related to these incidents. 

On March 11 and March 22, it is alleged that Howard committed the crimes of fourth degree Shoplifting at the Lowe’s Home Improvement store. He is also alleged to have committed the fourth degree crime of Theft by Deception during the March 22, incident. 

Additionally, on March 11 and March 22, it is alleged that Howard conspired with co-defendant Joseph Connell to commit the crimes of fourth degree Shoplifting at the Lowe’s Home Improvement store.  Connell previously pleaded guilty in state Superior Court in August 2016 and was sentenced to five years’ probation for his involvement in these crimes.    

On March 29, it is alleged that Howard committed the crime of fourth degree Shoplifting at the Lowe’s Home Improvement store. Additionally on March 29, it is alleged that Howard and co-defendant David King conspired to commit the crime of fourth degree Shoplifting at the Lowes Home Improvement store. Co-defendant King is also charged by way of Indictment with the fourth degree crimes of Theft by Deception and Receiving Stolen Property for his alleged involvement in this incident.     

On March 31, it is alleged that Howard committed two counts of third degree burglary (into a vehicle and a house), and three counts of third and fourth degree Theft. 

It is also alleged that on March 31, Howard committed the crime of first degree Attempted Murder of a Butler Patrol Officer.

As a result of his alleged conduct during that incident, Howard also has been indicted for the crimes of second degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose (a rifle), third degree Aggravated Assault for allegedly pointing the rifle at the officer and second degree Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons. The last charge in the indictment is based upon Howard’s 2012 Morris County conviction for Burglary and Possession of a Weapon (firearm) for an Unlawful Purpose.

Howard is now being held at the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $190,000 bail. 

Editors Note: An indictment is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the Defendants charged by way of these Indictments are presumed innocent unless and until each has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Amazon to Acquire Whole Foods for $13.7 Billion

Frank L. Cahill
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Amazon to Acquire Whole Foods for $13.7 Billion

PARSIPPANY — Amazon.com will acquire Whole Foods Market for $13.7 billion, a bombshell of a deal that catapults the e-commerce giant into the supermarket business with hundreds of stores across the U.S.

Whole Foods is proposing a new store at future Waterview Marketplace, Route 46 and Waterview Boulevard. The proposed store will occupy 49,000 square feet. The total shopping center will consist of 157,410 square feet and provide 679 parking spots. (Click here to see diagram of proposed shopping center). Meanwhile there is a vacant 65,106 square foot former PathMark Store less than two miles east of the proposed location.

Parsippany Focus contacted Whole Foods corporate office in Austin, Texas, but did not receive a return call.

Amazon agreed to pay $42 a share in cash for the organic-food chain, including debt, a roughly 27 percent premium to the stock price at Thursday’s close. John Mackey, Whole Foods’ outspoken co-founder, will continue to run the business — providing a lifeline to the embattled executive after a fight with activist investor Jana Partners.

The deal sends a shockwave across both the online and brick-and-mortar industries, uniting two brands that weren’t seen as obvious partners. But Whole Foods came under pressure to find a buyer this year after Jana acquired a more than eight percent stake and began pushing for a buyout. Jana’s move irked Mackey, who has referred to Whole Foods as his “baby.” By enlisting Amazon, he gets to keep his job as chief executive officer of the grocery chain.

Whole Foods shares jumped 27 percent to $41.99 as of 10:00 a.m. in New York, bringing them close to the transaction price. Amazon shares gained 3.2 percent to $995.

Five-Minute Delivery?
For Amazon, the deal is more about getting a distribution network for groceries, said Michael Pachter, an analyst at Wedbush Securities Inc. It has spent years trying to break into delivering groceries, but hasn’t been as successful as in other categories.

Amazon previously contemplated a takeover of Whole Foods last fall, but it didn’t pursue a deal, a person with knowledge of the situation has said. The e-commerce company revisited the idea after Jana stepped in.

“Amazon clearly wants to be in grocery, clearly believes a physical presence gives them an advantage,” Pachter said. “I assume the physical presence gives them the ability to distribute other products more locally. So theoretically you could get 5-minute delivery.”

The transaction also may help Amazon sideline Instacart Inc., a startup that has delivered grocery orders from Whole Foods stores in more than 20 states and Washington, D.C.

Amazon’s biggest acquisition announced to date came in 2014, when it agreed to buy video-game service Twitch Interactive Inc. for $970 million in cash, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The Seattle-based company had about $21.5 billion of cash and equivalents at the end of March, the data show.

“Millions of people love Whole Foods Market because they offer the best natural and organic foods, and they make it fun to eat healthy,” Amazon Chief Executive Officer Jeff Bezos said in a statement.

The takeover is slated to be completed in the second half of the year, with Whole Foods’ headquarters remaining in Austin, Texas.

Centenary University holds Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at their new Campus Drive location

Frank L. Cahill
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Centenary University holds Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at their new Campus Drive location

PARSIPPANY — Centenary University’s School of Professional Studies (SPS), which has served the education needs of adult students since 1999, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new location located at the Mack-Cali Professional Building, 7 Campus Drive. SPS’s new state-of-the-art facility help position Centenary as a leader in adult education. The SPS programs provide an entrepreneurial approach to the educational experience by offering professional studies to those in the workforce allowing students to select the modality most conductive to their busy lifestyle.

“It was a strategic decision almost 20 years ago to develop SPS in Parsippany to build the workforce capacity in the region,” says Dr. Diedre Letson-Christofalo, Vice President for Adult, Corporate and Online Education. “This new location will further enrich the learning experience as it was designed to accommodate the needs for the adult learner.”

Remarks were made by Centenary University President Dr. David P. Haney and Eric LeGrand, motivational speaker and former Rutgers football player. LeGrand discussed his own journey overcoming obstacles and the importance of following one’s dreams. He further urged attendees how they can move forward in their lives by moving past personal challenges.

Joining the Board of Directors during the ribbon cutting was President Dr. David P. Haney and Dr. Diedre Letson-Christofalo, was Parsippany-Troy Hills Vice President Robert Peluso, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board member Frank Cahill and Board member Nicolas Limanov.

“I was excited to celebrate the growth of Centenary University’s new facilities and School of Professional Studies in our hometown of Parsippany. Higher education is important in the lives of our children and the future of Parsippany. Dr. David Haney, who was recently appointed the 13th President of Centenary University indicated that we need to design our future based upon what people need. I share in his vision and appreciate him choosing Parsippany to accommodate the needs of our residents and workforce. Congratulations to Centenary University on their new facility,” said Peluso.

Eric LeGrand is a source of inspiration, hope and perseverance for many. A standout high school football player, LeGrand went on to play for Rutgers University. On October 16, 2010, in his junior year, LeGrand suffered a severe spinal injury during a game. As a result, he underwent nine hours of emergency surgery to become stabilized. Doctors gave him zero to five percent chance of regaining neurologic function. In January 2011, he regained movement in his shoulders and sensation throughout the body.

On October 29, 2011, LeGrand, in his motorized wheelchair, led the Scarlet Knights onto the field at Rutgers stadium for their game against West Virginia. This moment was chosen by readers of Sports Illustrated as “The Best Moment of 2011.”

In fall of 2012, LeGrand released his book, titled BELIEVE: My Faith and the Tackle that Changed My Life, published by HarperCollins. Humbled by the outpouring support from around the nation, LeGrand decided to form a charity. Team LeGrand of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation was established in 2013. Proceeds go toward research to find a cure for paralysis and helping improve the quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries.

“I am pleased to talk about my personal educational journey and how my priorities shifted to motivating others to realize their potential after my injury, says LeGrand.”

This new facility offers more classroom and conference space than before, plus it houses a Social Media Center of Expertise. This Center, which is called #theVIBE, will launch a Social Media Marketing certificate program and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration: Social Media Marketing for adult professionals.

Eric J. LeGrand was born September 4, 1990. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed him to a symbolic contract as an undrafted free agent in May 2012. In 2017, LeGrand was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as the third recipient of the Warrior Award. On May 18, 2014, LeGrand received a degree in labor relations from Rutgers and was asked to speak to his fellow graduates at Rutgers’ spring commencement exercises.

On July 30, 2013, coach Kyle Flood announced Rutgers will retire jersey number 52 of paralyzed former player Eric LeGrand. He was honored in a ceremony September 14, 2013, it was the first number ever retired for the football program.

On October 16, 2016 (the 6th anniversary of his spinal cord injury), Avenel, NJ’s former “Fifth District Park” was rededicated in LeGrand’s honor as “Eric LeGrand ‘Believe’ Park”. The park is slated to be fully redesigned and updated with handicap-accessible playground equipment.

#theVIBE was first launched at the Centenary University in Hackettstown in September 2015 as a location where students can gain social media expertise and where businesses can leverage the knowledge of social media experts. The launch of this program was so successful that they have built a second Social Media Center in Parsippany.

Students studying Social Media Marketing will be immersed in social media by learning in a modern collaborative environment at #theVIBE, with its impressive touchscreen video wall streaming the latest social media data.

This is a rapidly changing field and the program keeps students on the pulse of social media through interactive demos, customized video homework by social media experts, and hands-on use of industry social media listening software. In addition to this certificate, there are new graduate level certificates that are being offered at SPS in Leadership and Health Administration.

Students in the SPS program can take classes in a variety of formats: one-night-per-week, completely online or through a blended approach, which combines online and in class methods. The curriculum combines theory and practical experience, allowing students to apply knowledge acquired immediately. Having conferred thousands of A.A., B.S.B.A and M.B.A. degrees, the School of Professional Studies serves as an inclusive and collaborative learning community dedicated to preparing adult students to progress further in society and to contribute directly to the state’s economic engine.

Founded in 1867 by the Newark Conference of the United Methodist Church, Centenary University’s academic program integrates a solid liberal arts foundation with a strong career orientation.

Centenary University’s main campus is located in Hackettstown, with its equestrian facility in Washington Township. The Centenary School of Professional Studies offers degree programs in Parsippany and Edison, as well as corporate sites throughout New Jersey.

Funnybooks celebrating 25th Anniversary this Saturday

Frank L. Cahill
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Funnybooks celebrating 25th Anniversary this Saturday

PARSIPPANY — Funnybooks is celebrating the 25th Anniversary on Saturday, June 17 from 12:00 Noon to 7:00 p.m. with an exciting event.

Funny Books

The event will be held at Funnybooks, and at “The Funcave” – a temporary (June only) bargain comic book outlet which we have set-up in the available space next to Funnybooks.

Funnybooks has a lot planned for the big day, including a special appearance by Fan-Favorite Comic Book Artist, Amanda Conner – the writer and artist of DC’s Harley Quinn Comics! Amanda will be on hand to sign comics from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

In the past two and a half decades, Conte said he’s survived the comic book glut that put many shops out of business in the late 90s, and also saw the style of comics change.

They will also have superhero sketch artists, and door prizes, a huge sale at Funnybooks and at the Funcave (which is loaded with about 10,000 comics (all for either $1.00 or $2.00) and of course a birthday cake. And yes, Funnybooks’ mascot Minnybooks will be there too.

Customers are invited to wear their best cosplays or accessories for the event.

Funnybooks is located at 98 North Beverwyck Road and is open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for Saturday’s celebration.

Funny Books

Kiwanis to hold annual “Touch-a-Truck” this Saturday

Frank L. Cahill
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Kiwanis to hold annual “Touch-a-Truck” this Saturday

PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany will be hosting its annual Touch-A-Truck event this Saturday, June 17 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 1515 Route 10 East, Parsippany (The former Dialogic parking lot). The price is $5.00 per person or $20.00 maximum per family.

Touch-a-Truck is a fundraising event to benefit the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. Children of all ages can have a hands-on experience with all kinds of vehicles and interact with community support leaders like police officers, firemen, first aid squad volunteers, sanitation workers and many more!

This year there will be Fire Trucks, Ambulances, Tow Trucks, Cranes, Garbage Trucks, Taxi’s and so much more…  Face Painting, a balloon artist, music and refreshments available for purchase.

Every child will receive a goody bag full of surprises including a free child’s meal at IHOP, free ice cream cone and much more.

Aside from being a great time for the family, this event helps support our major initiatives. Kiwanis International is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. Our Parsippany based group supports and sponsors many community causes.

For more information click here, or contact Touch-a-Truck Chairman Nicolas Limanov at Ndlimanov13@gmail.com or (917) 499-7299.

Parsippany’s Girls on the Run and Heart & Sole Complete a 5K

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany’s Girls on the Run and Heart & Sole Complete a 5K

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Girls On The Run and Heart & Sole teams sprinted to the spring season’s finish line during the annual Florham Park Jaycees 5K on Saturday, June 10.

Girls on The Run is a youth development program for third through eighth grade that inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates with running. The program for girls in grades third to fifth is called “Girls on the Run,” while the parallel program for girls in grades sixth through eighth is called “Heart & Sole.” Both groups met twice weekly at Parsippany’s Veterans Park. This final 3.1 mile race represents the culmination of both teams’ hard work and determination. They have participated in confidence-boosting games and activities, while maintaining a continual focus on self improvement by challenging themselves to better individual running skills each week.

The Jaycees run began with the teams organizing in front of Holy Family Church, alongside other teams from the New Jersey East council of Girls on the Run. The large open field was lit up with pink signs, and brightened further with a fun, complimentary hair color station and a feminine take on war paint.

Occupying the Parsippany spot on the field, the girls were greeted by their dedicated volunteer coaches, Head Coach Angela Vitellaro, Assistant Coach Alexa Longush, Assistant Coach Kathleen Attenasio, and Junior Coach Sera Ferrante. Heart & Sole coaches Katie Rusnock and Gillian Eigo attended to the older girls. Handmade flower crown veils blew in wind as the coaches headed to the starting line alongside their teams and running buddies. Some of the girls ran with their coaches, while others were joined by family or friends.

All of the The Parsippany Girls On The Run and Heart & Sole runners succeeded and finished the race!

Girls on the Run participants and their chip times were as follows: Hope Brecher (1:00), Tessa Downes (:55), Catherine Estilo (:45), Lara Habib (:50), Anum Haqqani (:46), Madeline Harmon (:39), Barbara Karkanias (:44), Carina Maroldi (:38), Jordan Maxwell (:48), Amelia McIntosh (:53), Shamili Nimmala (:47), Emily Regalado (:52), Ashley Thompson (:48), Elaina Voto (:38). Jazmin O’Donnell was with the group in spirit.

Heart & Sole runners included: Maya Celli (:48), Elizabeth Foldy (:50), Christina Habib (:54), Thanvi Nimmala (:47) and Kendall Pachiolo (:45). Team members Arshi Patel and Rachel Lebowitz did not run; however, Rachel was onsite cheering for her friends.

Girls On The Run and Heart & Sole are not your typical running clubs, as they focus on self-empowerment, and working toward personal, rather than competitive goals: Each girl’s stride across the finish line represented a personal victory for this group of small, but mentally and physically mighty young women. The girls’ season is not quite complete, as they now prepare for their next hurdle – tackling a community service project as a team.

Girls on the Run and Heart & Sole are always interested in new members. Fall registration will begin on August 1 at 9:00 a.m. Click here to learn more.

Girls on the Run, a nonprofit physical activity-based youth development program for girls in 3rd through 8th grade, serves more than 200,000 girls annually in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Heart & Sole is Girls on the Run’s new program for middle school girls! Heart & Sole creates a positive, structured space for middle school girls to learn about themselves, explore new ideas, cultivate empathy, strengthen connections and develop life skills that will help them as they move through adolescence and beyond. More info is available by clicking here.

Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Honors its 2017 High School Scholarship Winners

Frank L. Cahill
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Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Honors its 2017 High School Scholarship Winners

PARSIPPANY — For over 60 years the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) has awarded high school scholarships and supported many other educational programs in the community.   Recently, members of the WCPTH welcomed their 2017 High School Scholarship Winners and parents to the club’s Salad Supper.  The club awarded a total of $10,000.00 in high school scholarships.  The recipients of $1,000.00 each: from Parsippany Hills High School: Julianne Caccavale, Marissa Gasbarro, Alexa Lynch and Vanessa Ting; from Parsippany High School: Adriana DiDio, Dhara Patel, Grace Santangelo, Asia Anne Tabili, Alexandra Tymikiw and Lillian Ye.

The student awards are not limited to high school seniors.  WCPTH awards students at other educational levels.   Each year, one male and one female student from the 8th grade graduating class at Brooklawn, Central and All Saints Academy are presented with a $50.00 Citizenship Award.  In elementary school, the club recognizes one 5th grade student from each of the town’s ten public elementary schools with a Reading Award which includes a $25.00 gift certificate to purchase a new book.  In total 28 students were honored by the club this June.  In addition, beginning this year, the Club will make a significant monetary donation to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs’ Success for Survivors Scholarship which assists those impacted by intimate partner violence pursue higher education.

WCPTH also sponsors a student delegate from both Parsippany high schools to attend Girls Career Institute (GCI).  As part of the GCI program, students attend workshops about various career choices and experience a sample of college life.   GCI is held at Douglass College, and is sponsored by the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC) which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.  The Woman’s Club of Parsippany Troy-Hills is a proud member of NJSFWC since 1954 and was very pleased that Jean Revis, NJSFWC President, attended the Salad Supper.

The members of the Woman’s Club Parsippany-Troy Hills express their sincere thanks to residents and merchants who support the club’s annual golf classic fundraiser.  Their generous support allows the club to continue to honor Parsippany students.  This year the 36th Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic & Luncheon Social will be held on Tuesday, July 11 at the Knoll Country Club West.  The fundraiser includes golf or a morning of  social and games and for all attendees; a buffet lunch, Tricky Tray, 50/50 Raffle, Door Prizes and more. The fee for Golfers is $115.00 and includes Continental Breakfast, Hot and Cold Buffet Luncheon, Door Prizes, Tricky Tray and 50/50 Raffle.  The Golf Scramble Shotgun starts at 8:00 a.m. The fee for the Social and Luncheon is $35.00 and includes Continental Breakfast, Cards, Games, Hot and Cold Buffet Luncheon, Door Prizes, Tricky Tray and 50/50 Raffle.  The Social and Games start at 10:00 a. Reservations are needed by June 29th.   If you would like attend the 36th Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic & Luncheon Social, please contact Lois at (973) 887-6627 or WCPTH, Golf Outing, P.O. Box 98, Parsippany, NJ 07054.

For club or membership information call Cathy at (973) 984-0758, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com  or check us out on the web www.parsippanywomansclub.org  or follow us on FaceBook.

 

Gub. Candidate Kaper-Dale Accompanies Deportee’s Son to Capitol Hill

Frank L. Cahill
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Gub. Candidate Kaper-Dale Accompanies Deportee’s Son to Capitol Hill

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Gubernatorial Candidate Seth Kaper-Dale accompanied 13-year old Joel Massie, the son of a recently deported Indonesian refugee to an America’s Voice Father’s Day event in Washington, DC. Kaper-Dale and Massie were invited by America’s Voice, along with NJ Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Representatives Pallone and Gutierrez to highlight the effects of deportation of migrants. Kaper-Dale is a pastor who most recently gained national attention when Indonesian community members, who previously took sanctuary in his church for 11-months, were deported by ICE.

Kaper-Dale’s speech included the following: “We need to stand up against reckless deportation; we’re experiencing ethnic and racial cleansing, American style.”

The pastor-candidate has been associated for years with his activism. Since becoming a candidate he has been described as “the only progressive running” and “the Bernie of New Jersey”. His platform seeks justice for immigrants, refugees, and asylees, including a single-payer healthcare plan that extends to the undocumented, and a plan for legal drivers licenses for this group. Kaper-Dale is determined to make New Jersey a Sanctuary State by prohibiting state law enforcement from conducting activities on behalf of I.C.E. among other advancements for migrant rights. His policies all are dedicated to dynamizing the state’s economy, in addition to making it a safe place for all residents. He promises a $15/hour minimum wage for all, including people serving jail time, and a plan for renewable energy aimed at lowering NJ’s carbon footprint by 20% during his first term, distinguishing him from the Democratic and Republican candidates.

Senator Menendez had the following to say at the event: “I’m glad we are here to raise our voices, and not be complicit in President Trump’s mass deportation agenda.“ Representative Pallone informed the audience that he and Representative Maloney have reintroduced the Indonesian Refugee Family Protection Act, which Kaper-Dale helped to write in 2012.

After Kaper-Dale participated in his community’s weekly Monday sunrise protest outside of Elizabeth Detention Center, he got word that the NJ Division of Elections certified that he is on the ballot in one of the only two gubernatorial elections in the country November 7, 2017.

Freeholders approve buyout of flood-prone properties in Parsippany

Frank L. Cahill
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Freeholders approve buyout of flood-prone properties in Parsippany

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders have approved a $157,500 allocation for the buyout of a flood-threatened residential property in Parsippany. It marks the 20th such purchase in the township under the county’s innovative Flood Mitigation Program, which has previously approved $7.5 million to partially fund purchases of 67 homes in eight towns.

Freeholder Doug Cabana

The freeholders voted unanimously to approve the allocation for the latest Parsippany buyout at the board’s May 24 meeting based on a recommendation by the Morris County Flood Mitigation Committee.

All of the Parsippany buyouts have focused on the Lake Hiawatha area, which developed as a summer community many decades ago and evolved into year-round living. During Hurricane Irene, the flood wall erected more than 25 years ago was overtopped and the community experienced severe flooding.

With approval of this latest buyout, for a home on Mohican Place along the Rockaway River, Morris County will have provided a total of $1.3 million to Parsippany for flood buyouts.

“This is part of our continuing effort to help to get residents from across the county out of harm’s way in places that have been overwhelmed by previous floods and are expected to be struck by future flooding,’’ said Freeholder Director Doug Cabana.

These buyouts result in creation of new open space that provides flood storage and creates buffer areas that help protect other nearby homes and businesses from flooding,’’ added Freeholder Christine Myers, the board’s liaison on open space issues. “In addition, buyouts ease the burden on first responders, who must rescue flood-threatened families, and Public Works teams who handle post-flood issues and debris.’’

The goal of the county program, which currently has another 24 pending projects, is to help towns secure flood-prone properties from willing sellers and convert the sites to permanently preserved open space, which naturally captures and absorbs flood water.

Additionally, these acquisitions lower municipal costs. Each potential flood buyout is subject to an in-depth benefit-cost analysis to assure that it makes financial and practical sense to remove the home. Morris County’s average benefit-cost ratio for the 68 projects completed is a 7:1 – meaning that for every $1 spent there is $7 in benefits to the towns and county.

The board established the Flood Mitigation Program in 2012 in response to increased, repetitive flooding in the county, especially the excessive flooding caused by Hurricane Irene in 2011. It is an expansion of the Morris County Open Space, Farmland, and Historic Preservation Trust, and is funded by the voter-approved county’s open space tax.

Morris County Freeholder Christine Myers

As flood insurance rates rise significantly due to federal legislation, more homeowners are considering flood buyouts as an escape from destructive, repetitive flooding and the increasing cost of homeowners insurance in floodplains.

In 2014, the average flood insurance policy nationwide cost $468; in 2015, this cost jumped to $708. As federal subsidies for flood insurance gradually diminish to zero, insurance premiums will continue to rise until they reach their true actuarial risk.

The Morris County Flood Mitigation Program was the first program at the county level in New Jersey dedicated to acquiring flood-prone homes and land. The state DEP in 2014 awarded the program a Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award.
According to Jennifer McCulloch, coordinator of the Flood Mitigation Program, the program is structured with two basic funding tracks. The “MATCH Program’’ provides a 25 percent county match for projects already underway with agencies, such as Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or the state DEP’s Blue Acres Program,

The second funding track, or “CORE Program,” is designed to catch homes that have fallen through other agency’s funding nets, with Morris County providing up to 75 percent of the acquisition cost. The latest Lake Hiawatha buyout is in the CORE category. The remaining 25 percent cost share is being provided by New Jersey DEP, Parsippany’s Open Space Trust Fund, and homeowner donation of value.

In addition to Parsippany, the county has provided grant funding for buyouts in Boonton, Denville, Lincoln Park, Long Hill, Morristown, Pequannock and Riverdale.

Grant applications are considered through municipalities only for acquisition of flood-affected residences from willing sellers. All county funds go directly to municipalities, which purchase the properties and must maintain the land as public open space in perpetuity, said McCulloch.

Additional information is available by clicking here, or by calling (973) 829-8120.

Fatal Crash in Long Hill Township

Frank L. Cahill
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Fatal Crash in Long Hill Township

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Long Hill Township Police Chief Michael Mazzeo confirm a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred on Sunday, June 11, in Long Hill Township.

On Sunday, June 11, at approximately 4:00 p.m., the Long Hill Township Police Department was notified of a serious motor vehicle crash that occurred in the area of 342 Valley Road, Long Hill. It was determined that two motor vehicles, a car and a motorcycle, had been involved in a motor vehicle crash.

The operator of the motorcycle, a male, age forty-eight, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing. No additional information will be released at this time.

Numerous law enforcement agencies have been involved in this investigation, including the Long Hill Township Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office – Criminal Investigation Section, and the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

Parsippany Town Hall Council Agenda Meeting, June 8, 2017

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Town Hall Council Agenda Meeting, June 8, 2017

Part 2 of the Council Agenda Meeting, June 8, 2017

Part 3 of the Council Agenda Meeting, June 8, 2017

Ryan Chmura receives proclamation from Boonton Mayor

Frank L. Cahill
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Ryan Chmura receives proclamation from Boonton Mayor

PARSIPPANY — Matthew DiLauri, Mayor of the Town of Boonton and the Board of Alderman recognized Communications Officer Ryan Chmura, Patrolman Michael Gulla and Sergeant Royce Stafford and Boonton Fire Department members, Lieutenant Shane Dencker, Firefighter Robert Destefano, Past Chief Peter Herbert, Firefighter Scott Hollinghurst, Battalion Chief David Kaplan, Firefighter Michael Mullaney, Past Chief Richard Osborne, Captain Chris Petonak, Lieutenant Nick Petonak, Fire Chief R.J. Ryerson, Firefighter William Wallace, Past Chief Carl Wendt and Firefighter James Westura for the excellent work they did in saving a life at the cliffs on the Rockaway River on October 2, 2016.

The Proclamation read:

WHEREAS, on October 2, 2016, the Boonton Police Department received a report that someone had fallen down a cliff in Grace Lord Park. Fire Chief R.J. Ryerson heard the dispatch from Communications Officer Ryan Chmura and quickly joined Police Officer Michael Gulla and Sergeant Royce Stafford who had already begun a search. Soon Past Fire Chief Carl Wendt was on the scene manning the command vehicle; and

WHEREAS, searchers spotted a teenager clinging to the rocks about 30 feet above the Rockaway River rapids. Battalion Chief Dave Kaplan threw the boy a line which was then anchored to a tree by Past Chief Richard Osborne and a rescue plan was quickly formulated. Carl Wendt rappelled down the embankment to the boy. Fire Lieutenant Nick Petonak and Firefighters Mike Mullaney and Bill Wallace set up line systems which were used by Firefighter Bob Destefano and Fire Lieutenant Shane Dencker and Past Fire Chief Peter Herbert to rappel to help secure the teen. Firefighter Scott Hollinghurst lowered the basket and a hauling system was set up by Fire Captain Chris Petonak and Firefighter James Westura. Toe boy was brought up to safety and to a waiting ambulance.; and

WHEREAS, these individuals worked together and with other members of the Boonton Police Department, the Boonton Fire Department and the Kiwanis Ambulance Service to bring a happy resolution to the dangerous situation. We admire their teamwork, advanced training, quick wits and sharp skills. We salute them for their bravery and their dedication to the safety and well-being of the public.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Matthew DiLauri, Mayor of the Town of Boonton on behalf of the Board of Alderman and the People of Boonton do hereby recognize Boonton Police Department members, Communications Officer Ryan Chmura, Patrolman Michael Gulla and Sergeant Royce Stafford and Boonton Fire Department members, Lieutenant Shane Dencker, Firefighter Robert Destefano, Past Chief Peter Herbert, Firefighter Scott Hollinghurst, Battalion Chief David Kaplan, Firefighter Michael Mullaney, Past Chief Richard Osborne, Captain Chris Petonak, Lieutenant Nick Petonak, Fire Chief R.J. Ryerson, Firefighter William Wallace, Past Chief Carl Wendt and Firefighter James Westura for the excellent work they did in saving a life at the cliffs on the Rockaway River on October 2, 2016. Thank you all for a job well done.

Ryan Chmura (right) receives a proclamation from Mayor of Boonton along with other members of the community

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