Provident Bank Foundation Awards $50K Signature Grant to Employment Horizons

Frank L. Cahill
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Provident Bank Foundation Awards $50K Signature Grant to Employment Horizons

HANOVER — The Provident Bank Foundation has announced Employment Horizons in Cedar Knolls as the recipient of the Foundation’s $50,000 Signature Grant for 2017 in the Community Enrichment funding priority area. The Foundation presented the check during a presentation on Friday, May 12, at Employment Horizons, located at 10 Ridgedale Avenue.

Employment Horizons was selected to receive this Signature Grant for its work in the Community and Economic Development-Employment focus area. Funding will assist in the start-up of a Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA) Training and Job Placement Program for individuals with barriers to employment. The program will include additional, related training to make trainees more competitive in the industry. Customized supports will enhance completion rates and employment success.

Those present at Friday’s check presentation will include Chris Martin, PBF President and Chairman, and CEO and President Provident Bank, Jane Kurek, Executive Director, PBF, as well as EH Executive Director Matthew Putts, and Assistant Executive Director Jacky Burns, among others.

“This grant is dedicated to addressing the skills gap by providing training and comprehensive supportive services for individuals facing challenges in the labor force, which is why Employment Horizons was selected as this year’s recipient,” said Jane Kurek, Executive Director, The Provident Bank Foundation. “Through their new program, individuals will receive their HHA certification, and be positioned on a career path that exposes them to further training, education, and increased income opportunities. Employment Horizons is not only addressing the unemployment issue, but enhancing the quality of life of members in their community.”

The program will be a unique public-private partnership involving Employment Horizons, referrals through the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (LWD), and Assisting Hands, an award-winning home healthcare agency.

This unique “one-stop” format will co-locate all services at Employment Horizons, rather than at various agencies using different staffs at different locations across the community.  Each program cycle will be five weeks front-loaded with the specific CHHA training, followed by other related training, job search skills, job placement and job retention supports.

“With investment from the Provident Bank Foundation, and in partnership with Assisting Hands Home Care, Employment Horizons is excited to begin providing CHHA training to individuals with barriers to employment,” said Matthew Putts, Executive Director of Employment Horizons. “We look forward to not only improving employment opportunities and economic participation for those trained through the new program but also in meeting a growing need of local employers for CHHA credentialed staff. Furthermore, we are privileged to help address a community need for families looking to find qualified providers of home care for their loved ones.”

Employment Horizons, formerly known as the Occupational Training Center of Morris County, was founded in Morristown in 1957 by a group of forward-thinking parents who wanted to expand work and personal growth opportunities for their children with disabilities and special needs. Over the years, Employment Horizons has implemented innovative programs to meet the needs and choices of the people with disabilities served. They provide job training and placement services to people with disabilities in the greater Morris County area.

For more information on PBF, click here or call (862) 260-3990.

About The Provident Bank Foundation
The Provident Bank Foundation was established in 2003 by Provident Bank to enhance the quality of life in the region through support of not-for-profit groups, institutions, schools and other 501(c)(3) organizations that provide services in communities served by the Bank. Since inception, the Foundation has granted more than $22 million to not-for-profit organizations and institutions working toward stronger communities. For more information about The Provident Bank Foundation, click here or call (862) 260-3990.

Update: Police chase ends in arrest of Orest Lopadchak

Frank L. Cahill
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Update: Police chase ends in arrest of Orest Lopadchak

PARSIPPANY — Montville Township Police, Boonton Police, Morris County Park Police and New Jersey State Police aided in the pursuit of an alleged drunk driver who led Morris County Park Police across three towns in a disabled vehicle before his arrest.

Sergeant Edward Koster was patrolling The Tourne, Boonton, at approximately 6:15 p.m. on Saturday when he noticed a car parked in the lower parking lot near the ballfield.

Orest Lopadchak, Facebook Photo

Koster noticed a man with his legs hanging out of a vehicle’s windows even though it was raining. Sergeant Koster made contact with the sole occupant, Orest Lopadchak, 37, of Somerset.

As Koster approached the vehicle, the man brought his legs back into the car, acted nervous, and was motioning as though he was trying to hide something in the center console. Mr. Lopadcha then put the vehicle into “drive” and took off bouncing over a concrete parking stop in the process.

Lopadcha ensued was a slow-speed pursuit as the officer attempted to catch up. Lopadcha turned onto Powerville Road, turned right onto Rockaway Valley Road, and that road becomes Taylortown Road in Montville Township. At that time, the Black Mercedes blew out a tire. Still, the pursuit continued.

Lopadcha turned right onto Main Road/Route 202, got onto Route 287, proceeded to Exit 42, Parsippany, and used Route 202 to get onto Route 80.

Morris County Sheriff Department vehicle on the side of the road where Mr. Lopadchak attempted to run down a grassy hill

The man stopped in the travel lane of Route 80 West, at Exit 42 A-B (Cherry Hill Road), got out of his car, and tried to run down a grassy hill. Park Police and New Jersey State Police caught him and arrested him.

New Jersey State Police was on the scene

The driver, Orest Lopadchak, 37, Somerset, was charged by the Morris County Park Police Department with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (suspected crack-cocaine), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Eluding, Assault on Law Enforcement Officers, and Resisting Arrest.

Lopadchak was transported to Morristown Medical Center for observation by Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance Squad.

Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance transported the driver to Morristown Medical Center

Upon being released from the hospital, Mr. Lopadchak was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility. Morris County Park Police Department officers, Patrolman Casey Petrocy and Patrolman Christian DiGiralomo, were treated at the scene by Parsippany Emergency Medical Services for minor injuries and released.

A follow-up investigation is being conducted by the Morris County Park Police Department Detective Bureau, and further information may be released at a later time.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department was involved in the chase of Mr. Lopadchak

Editors Note: A previous article Parsippany Focus reported that the vehicle was stolen, and at this time we believe that information was incorrect.

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.

Kiwanis Club holds annual Golf Outing

Frank L. Cahill
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Kiwanis Club holds annual Golf Outing

PARSIPPANY — On Tuesday, May 9, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany hosted their annual golf outing at the Knoll Country Club in Parsippany. Continental breakfast started at 7:15 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8:00 a.m. Afterwards a full lunch will be served, including wine and beer. 

The hole-in-one car was donated by Ed Carney Ford, but unfortunately no one won the vehicle. There is always next year.

Through this fundraiser, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany raises money to give to the children of this community. The club has sponsored library programs; raised funds for the Parsippany daycare center; given financial support to the K kids, builders club and Key Clubs in all of the Parsippany schools; provided food for Parsippany’s food pantry; donated back packs to needy children; supported Camp Nejeda, a camp for kids with Type 1 diabetes and through our state association provided funding to the pediatric trauma center of Robert Wood Johnson hospital.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany picks their own service projects that they feel need attention. They are all local people that volunteer their time and talents to make our community  a better place to live. They are busy with making a living, church, family, and many other activities. However, they have found that Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany gives us not only a chance to give back to our community in a meaningful way, but enjoy the fellowship, networking and fun aspects as well. Kiwanis offers an opportunity to get involved in our community; make a difference in the lives of children; meet, work and socialize with people in our community and help those in need in our community.

For more information, click here.

Car changes lanes and crashes into another vehicle

Frank L. Cahill
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Car changes lanes and crashes into another vehicle

PARSIPPANY — Mr. Stan Davis, 56, Hackettstown was traveling North on New Road in the left lane, at 9:32 a.m. on Saturday, May 6. He was driving a 2012 Chevy Silverado.

Mr. Brahm Parasher, 48, Parsippany,  had just exited Route 280 West, onto New Road Northbound. His vehicle, a 2006 Acura MDX traveled approximately 40 feet North on New Road, before appearing to attempt to turn left from the right lane. Mr. Davis observed Mr. Parasher enter his lane, and applied his brakes in an attempt to stop.

Mr. Davis then struck the 2006 Acura MDX, who had improperly entered his lane.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 5 members arrived on the scene, because initially it was reported as a driver was entrapped in the vehicle and to clean up a minor gas spill on the road.

There were no summons issued at the time of this report. Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Richard Howell investigated the accident.

Both vehicles were towed from the scene by Hiawatha Towing.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 5 HazMat team arrived to clean up a gas spill
Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 5 member entering the vehicle that was first reported as an entrapment.

Morris County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit Visits Northvail

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit Visits Northvail

PARSIPPANY — Officers Tomasini and Perez of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office visited the first graders at Northvail Elementary School to teach the children about police dogs and their significance to the department.

They brought along Zander and Kiara, both Belgian Malinoises. This dog breed is known for being very protective and hardworking.

They also have the signature hallmark of all dogs, a keen nose. Malinoises are now favored over the more traditional German Shepard for police work due to their intellect and attentiveness, both necessary traits for effective police work.

First grade teacher Ms. Cassetta observed, “The children were thrilled to meet real officers from the K-9 unit and of course their special dogs.

I think the presentation was a fantastic way for the children to learn more about such important members of our community.” She added, “This educational experience will leave a lasting impression on them.”

The officers talked about how K-9 units are trained, their duties, some of the costs involved with specialized dogs, and the benefits of having a canine unit as part of a police force. The officers also fielded many questions from the students. Officer Perez even demonstrated some of 9-year-old Zander’s tricks to the delight of the awestruck children.

The K-9 unit supports all thirty-nine municipalities of Morris County, twenty-four hours a day, and seven days a week.

Girl Scouts to hold Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser

Frank L. Cahill
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Girl Scouts to hold Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser

PARSIPPANY — Girl Scout Troop 5089 is holding a “Spaghetti Dinner” fundraiser on Saturday, May 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The event will be held at Saint Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 179 Baldwin Road.

The meal includes salad, spaghetti, meatballs, garlic bread and dessert. Girl Scouts will perform Hansel & Gretel at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets donations are $8.00 for adults, and $4.00 for children 10 and under. Preorder take out is a $8.00 donation.

For more information and to order tickets email gs5089dinner@hotmail.com. Proceeds will benefit Troop 5089.

In addition please bring a suggested item to donate to the Ronald McDonald House. Liquid hand soap, small paper plates, premmie diapers, antibacterial wipes, large paper plates, baby bottles, paper towels, plastic cutlery, baby toys, travel size deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste or body wash.

Hundreds Attend Lake Hiawatha School’s Second Annual Color Walk/Run

Frank L. Cahill
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Hundreds Attend Lake Hiawatha School’s Second Annual Color Walk/Run

PARSIPPANY — The Lake Hiawatha School PTA hosted their second annual 3K Rainbow Run on Friday, April 28 at Veteran’s Memorial Park on Route 46, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of 250 including students, family and friends, along with teachers and administrators.

Lake Hiawatha children participate in second annual 3K Rainbow Run

Lake Hiawatha School PTA’s elected Chair, Cindy LaPresti, was one of the principal organizers. She said, “Our second year was great! We had generous sponsors, which meant lots of nice door prizes for attendees, and we had an excellent turnout by families from our school and beyond.” She went on to note her appreciation for the parent volunteers who assisted in planning and executing the event, extending special thanks to Sarah Burke, Halia Centeno, Paola Rodriguez and Diana Winkler.

The event again began with a ribbon-cutting performed by Mayor James Barberio. Volunteers staffed stations along the perimeter of the paved path, liberally dousing runners and walkers with colors that showed vividly against the white t-shirts provided to participants. Each walker also received a string bag that included coupons and a bottle of water.

Jim McBride was the event DJ. He provided upbeat music to entertain the crowd.  Amid the fun vibe, the noncompetitive race was clearly enjoyed by the many smiling children who enjoyed the family-friendly, healthy outdoor event. Onsite refreshments including pizza, chicken fingers, snacks and refreshing beverages were appreciated by parents, who enjoyed a kitchen-free night.

Funds raised go directly to support student programs. The Lake Hiawatha PTA finances all of the school’s assembly programs and the K-5 field trips. Beyond individual donations, the following local companies supported the school: Advocare Parsippany Pediatrics, Applebee’s, Bed Bath & Beyond, Caggiano Orthodontics, Councilman Michael dePierro, D&B Chinese Restaurant, Foodtown, Home Depot, Jeremiah’s, Mathnasium, Modell’s Sporting Goods, Rauchberg Dental, ShopRite, Staples, Sushi Kuu Restaurant, Stop & Shop, Towne Tavern, Valentino’s Pizza and Victory Nails.

Lake Hiawatha School children participate in second annual 3K Rainbow Run

Theft of Cell Tower Batteries on Lake Shore Drive

Frank L. Cahill
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Theft of Cell Tower Batteries on Lake Shore Drive

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer David Ribaudo responded to a cell tower on Lake Shore Drive for a theft at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 11.

After speaking to the technician it was determined that an unknown suspect(s) entered the fenced in area of the tower and stole 28 backup batteries, worth approximately $6300.00. Detective A. Morelli responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.

This incident remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Police Department’s Investigative Division at (973) 263-4311.

Central Middle School participated in the National History Day Club

Frank L. Cahill
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Central Middle School participated in the National History Day Club
Victoria Taco and Eileen Zhang with their exhibit project on Theodora

PARSIPPANY — For the third consecutive year students from Central Middle School participated in the National History Day Club.

Every year over half a million middle and high-school students around the world conduct original research on historical topics of interest and compete with each other. Every year a new history theme is introduced.

This year’s theme is “Taking a Stand”. Students can work individually or with groups in creating a project of their choice. This year Central had 20 students compete at the regional competition at Kean University.

Eight of those students were chosen to compete at the State level competition that took place last week at William Paterson University.

There, two eighth graders, Victoria Taco and Eileen Zhang were chosen to compete in Washington DC this June for the National Competition.

They have conducted research on Theodora and how she took a stand for herself and women during the Byzantium Empire. Throughout their research Victoria and Eileen have also conducted  an interview with a professor from Kean University who teaches about the Byzantium Empire.

Ultimately, they have worked many hours on their project in which they competed against hundreds of other middle school students throughout NJ!

Essentially these two Parsippany students will be representing the entire state of NJ for the junior group exhibit category. This past Wednesday, these two finalists had the opportunity to attend  the “winners circle” meeting where they received the judges feedback and guidance on how to improve their project, process paper, and annotated bibliography for the National competition in June.

Victoria and Eileen will be traveling to the national completion with their families. They are very excited and nervous for this new journey. In the meantime, they will be continuing to improve their project by using the judges feedback.

The advisors and students would like to thank the Parsippany Education Foundation (PEF)  for the grant money received at the beginning of the school year to buy supplies and pay for the student’s registration to the regional, state, and national competitions. They would also like to thank Parsippany transportation for providing transportation to the regional and state competitions for these students.

Shoplifting arrest at Powder Mart

Frank L. Cahill
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Shoplifting arrest at Powder Mart

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Gregory Bloete responded to Powder Mart on a reported shoplifting. He was further advised the suspect had left the area. While in route to the store, he observed the suspect walking nearby on Route 10 East, at 12:13 on Saturday, May 6.

He made contact with suspect and identified him as Leo Culleny III, 25, Parsippany. After a brief investigation, Mr. Culleny was found to be in possession of approximately $10.00 worth of shoplifted items from the store.

He was placed under arrest and transported to Police Headquarters for processing. While at Police Headquarters he was charged on a Complaint-Summons for Shoplifting.

He was released on his own recognizance 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.

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