Saturday, May 27, 2017
Parsippany IHOP

Criminal Charge against Barberio has resulted in odd behavior

By Frank Cahill -
Mayor James Barberio

PARSIPPANY — As reported in Parsippany Focus on April 7, Democratic activist and candidate for governor Bill Brennan filed a citizen’s complaint against Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Business Administrator Ellen Sandman in Parsippany Municipal Court on Friday, April 7, a move that could result in fourth degree criminal charges against the duo. (Click here to read full story: Criminal Complaints filed against Barberio).

According to the complaint, both defendants were to appear in Morris County Superior Court on Wednesday, April 19 at 11:30 a.m.

Before a complaint is sent to Morris County Superior Court, a probable cause hearing must be heard by a judge.  Parsippany Municipal Court determined that they were in conflict and sent the case for probable cause to Morristown Municipal Court.

Bill Brennan stated “My criminal charge in Parsippany has resulted in odd behavior by the municipal court system. Before sending the case to Morristown Municipal Court for a probable cause determination, the Parsippany Municipal Court set a first appearance for the defendants in Superior Court for April 19. This caused media inquiries to the Superior Court regarding status. In response the Superior Court was perplexed because no paperwork had been received from either Parsippany or Morristown.”

Mr. Brennan then asked Parsippany Municipal Court what happened and was told that on April 7 the case was sent to Morristown Municipal Court for a Probable Cause determination.

Morristown Municipal Court is hopelessly conflicted because:

  • Morristown Planning Board Attorney is John Inglesino;
  • Morristown Township Attorney, Vij Pawar, represents Barberio (in Carifi vs. Barberio);
  • Morristown Prosecutor, Robert J. Rudy, III, is partnered with Barberio’s attorney,Vij Pawar (in Carifi vs. Barberio). Mr. Rudy currently serves as the Municipal Prosecutor for the Town of Morristown.

Parsippany Focus called Mr. Pawar on Wednesday, April 19, asking for comment as to why the Probable Cause hearing was scheduled for Morristown Municipal Court on Thursday, April 20, when it is clearly a conflict of interest. Mr. Pawar did not return our call.

Parsippany Focus called the Morristown Court Clerk on Thursday, April 20, and was advised the case has been sent back to Parsippany Municipal Clerk for further determination.

Despite these conflicts, the Morristown Municipal Court held onto the charge from April 10 until April 20 when they “discovered” these conflicts.

Mr. Brennan stated “This delay appears to be a calculated maneuver to buy time for the Mayor and Council. Both Morristown judges violated the Judicial Code of Conduct by delaying a case on behalf of the defendants under the misguided notion that somehow modifying a salary ordinance after the hiring and payment of employees would mean a crime did not occur. Under Inglesino’s reasoning two employees could be hired as Keyboarding Clerk 1 on New Year’s eve and each receive $48,000 in salary for that day – they could then work on January 2 and each receive another $48,000 in salary for that day and then be laid off. This nonsense is what passes for legal advice in Parsippany – so far the system is failing us again when it comes to Christie’s cronies.”

“On “Planet Inglesino” two keyboarding clerks can legally collect a total of $192,000 by working two days each and the salary range would not be violated. This is absurd.
We are about to see what kind of corrupt judge goes along with such an obvious fallacy,” stated Mr. Brennan in a press release.

Parsippany Focus contacted Parsippany Municipal Court Administrator Alvaro Leal, who confirmed the case was sent to Morristown Municipal Court for probable cause and was being returned to Parsippany Municipal Court, to be reassigned to yet another Municipal Court Judge for Probable Cause.  At this time it was not determined when and where this will happen.

In the meantime, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council scheduled an “special” meeting, on April 11, to pass an ordinance to change the White Color Salary Ordinance (Click here to read story: Cover Up Of A Crime? Salary Ordinance Revised; 3-2 Vote on First Reading). Council President Louis Valori, Councilman Michael dePierro and Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani approved the Ordinance on First Reading. Council Vice President Robert Peluso and Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr. voted no.

The Ordinance is on the agenda for the Regular Council meeting to be held on Tuesday, April 25 for final reading and approval.

The Ordinance, #2017:05, shall be retroactive to January 1, 2017 for all employees active on the date of introduction of this ordinance. The salary in this ordinance for Keyboarding Clerk 1 will have a minimum starting salary of $17,000 annually to $55,000 annually. (Note: A copy of the Ordinance was not available to the public during the special meeting, Parsippany Focus obtained a copy through Open Public Records Act (OPRA). Click here to see the complete White Collar Salary ranges.

“I find it kind-of comical that we had to have this special meeting, at the last second, right after this gentlemen who you claim files this bogus claim,” Councilman Paul Carifi told Parsippany Focus. “Again, the mayor hired these people at a higher rate than what the salary ordinance allows. That is a fact. This is a knee-jerk reaction, as usual, by the mayor.”

“I’m voting with my conscience, no,” Council Vice President Robert Peluso said.

Bill Brennan told the Daily Record, “I am beginning a legal campaign against these lawless abusers. Inglesino is my ultimate target. I investigated the perpetrators and started with Inglesino’s cronies, and am working my way up.”

Parsippany was among departments and Officers honored for community policing

By Frank Cahill -
Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino

MORRIS COUNTY — Four Morris County law enforcement agencies, including Parsippany-Troy Hills and six individual officers were among those honored by the New Jersey Attorney General for outstanding and innovative approaches to community policing.

Those honored during ceremonies at Rutgers University’s Livingston Campus were Lieutenant Paul Castimore, Detective Joseph Kratzel, Traffic Officer Rodger Davis and School Resource Officers Christopher Fabian and Joseph Hale from the Jefferson Police Department, Patrolman John Eckert of the Morris County Park Police, and the Parsippany and Roxbury Police Departments.

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp said, “I am extremely proud of these Morris County law enforcement officers and agencies who were honored for their community policing work. We must be especially cognizant of the need for law enforcement to engage in such programs to maintain public trust.”

Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino said that community policing is far more than walking a beat.

“Rather, it’s an overarching strategy that depends on the collaboration between police department and community groups working together to identify and solve local neighborhood problems,” Porrino said.

That spirit was exemplified by the officers and departments that received honors.

The five Jefferson officers were honored for running an annual Junior Police Academy that introduces about 75 students from the ages of 11 to 14 to possible careers in law enforcement. The academy offers students interaction with the New Jersey State Police and teaches them about crime scene investigations.

Patrolman Eckert of the Morris County Park Police was cited for his involvement with the department’s Child ID Program, which provides parents with ID cards in case a child goes missing. He also assists with the department’s holiday toy drive and created the department’s Facebook page.

The Attorney General honored the Parsippany Police Department was honored for presenting a wide range of outreach events including crime prevention seminars, a citizens police academy, a social media presence and bicycling through neighborhoods to get to know residents in an informal setting

The Roxbury Police Department was honored for launching a community food program in response to a food shortage identified by the township’s social services department. Children donating food at headquarters get to meet an officer and to sit in a patrol vehicle.

 

Pinnacle Foods employees volunteers during “Action Changes Things” program

By Frank Cahill -
A team worked together to dig a three-foot trench around a house to lay down water drainage pipes, for Habitat for Humanity Morris County

PARSIPPANY — Almost 1,000 Pinnacle Foods employees are volunteering in their local work communities this week as part of the Company’s third “Pinnacle ACTs” volunteerism program. Pinnacle ACTs is short for “Action Changes Things,” and the Company’s efforts are focused on volunteering for organizations that support the basic needs of food, shelter and the environment.

Since Monday, May 8, employees from 25 Pinnacle Foods locations throughout North America have been participating in various volunteer activities at more than 80 community organizations.

“As our company has grown over the years, so has the excitement about and involvement in our volunteerism program,” said Mary Beth DeNooyer, Chief Human Resources Officer. “Now that the third year is well underway, we are thrilled to once again see the great work our employees are doing to improve their communities.”

Pinnacle Foods’ Parsippany team volunteered their time and efforts at Family Promise, Habitat for Humanity Morris County and Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside.

In addition to volunteering during this week, employees are holding various donation drives at their locations and Pinnacle Foods is donating thousands of pounds of food to organizations that fight hunger.

The company is headquartered at 399 Jefferson Road and has nearly 5,000 employees across the U.S. and Canada.

A group of Pinnacle employees volunteered at Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside, packing over 5,000 bags of pasta for those in need on Wednesday, May 10
A team from Pinnacle Foods organized and cleaned to prepare space for daily activities at Family Promise in Morristown on Tuesday, May 9
Another Pinnacle Foods team worked together to dig a three-foot trench around a house to lay down water drainage pipes, for Habitat for Humanity Morris County
Another Pinnacle Foods team at Family Promise assisted with landscaping the grounds

Earth Friendly Products Receives Recycling Naturally” Award

By Frank Cahill -
Laura Szwak, MCMUA Board Chairwoman, Mary Ellen Potucek, Chester Area Senior Housing and Kathleen Hourihan, MC District Recycling Coordinator

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority, which provides drinking water to Morris County municipalities and oversees the County’s garbage transfer stations and hazardous waste disposal facility, and recycling programs, celebrated environmental excellence during an award ceremony on May 12, at the Morris County Park Commission’s Frelinghuysen Arboretum in Morris Township.

Larry Gindoff, Acting Executive Director of the Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority, thanked all of the award recipients for their outstanding environment work.

“We are extremely proud of these award winners, who have show outstanding enterprise and leadership in helping to make Morris County a better place to live, work and go to school,” said Morris County Freeholder Christine Myers, who is the county governing board’s liaison to the MUA. “Congratulations to all of you from the entire Freeholder Board.”

Here are the award winners:

Recycling Naturally Award: Earth Friendly Products
Supporting Sustainability Award: Woman’s Club of Morristown

Earth Friendly Products received the “Recycling Naturally” Award. This Parsippany company believes that what’s on the inside counts and they have spent nearly 50 years creating and perfecting thoughtfully sourced cleaners that work great and are safer for people and the planet. Formulated with pure, thoughtful science and manufactured using zero-waste guidelines, products are made in facilities powered by renewable energy where recycling is a priority. Earth Friendly was named one of the top business recyclers in the state by the DEP last year.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, President Earth Friendly Products Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks and State Senator Joseph Pennacchio

The Women’s Club of Morristown was honored with the “Supporting Sustainability” Award for their fourth annual Bra Drive. The club collects new and lightly used bras in all sizes and styles. The garments are distributed to Howard’s Mission and Dress for Success Morris County. Women are provided with professional attire and confidence to help them secure employment.  Bras that cannot be used are sent to The Bra Recyclers, an Arizona-based textile recycling company whose mission is to reduce the amount of textiles going to landfills.

Laura Szwak, MCMUA Board Chairwoman, Mary Ellen Potucek, Chester Area Senior Housing and Kathleen Hourihan, MC District Recycling Coordinator

Recycling is Fundamental Award: Nancy Meade

Nancy Meade is a teacher at Stony Brook School in Rockaway Township.  Her fourth grade recycling club students accepted the “It’s S’cool to Recycle” award.  Meade created and is the advisor to the school’s recycling club, which oversees recycling for the school.  The club promotes recycling by collecting and weighting recyclables to see how much material they are keeping out of the landfill.

Golden Age Recycler Award: Mary Ellen Potucek

Mary Ellen Potucek, on-site manager of the Robert Cole Senior Housing Complex of Chester Borough, was given the “Golden Age Recycler” award for the exceptional recycling program at this 38-unit affordable housing community. The MCMUA’s curbside collection crew has nothing but good things to say about her staff and the way they prepare recyclables.

Insuring a Better Tomorrow by Caring about Today Award: Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

Last fall, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., located in Whippany, cleaned up more than a ton of litter from the banks of the Whippany River, the lawns of Central Park, and the trails of Patriots Path, all in Hanover Toiwnship.  Employees joined members of the Hanover DPW, Fire and Police Departments, and the Whippany River Watershed Action Committee by donning hip waders and jumping into rowboats to remove trash from hard to reach areas.  Because of their hard work, the company received an award entitled “Insuring a Better Tomorrow by Caring about Today.”

Rob Grow, the owner of Potbelly’s Riverside Café, located on Main St. in Rockaway Borough, has conducted spring and fall cleanups for the past 10 years and has relied on volunteers to help clean the Rockaway River and its banks. The cleanup usually takes place between the waterfalls behind the firehouse and the waterfalls at Jackson Avenue, but Grow will go farther afield depending on the amount of litter, the number of volunteers, and the weather conditions.  Because of his decade of environmental awareness, the MCMUA honored him with the “Rockaway River Clean Water Stewardship” Award.

Rockaway River Clean Water Stewardship Award: Rob Grow

Leading by Example Award: Rosemary Schmidt

Rosemary Schmidt was quietly picking up trash in her neighborhood when she was discovered by members of the MCMUA.  “What a wonderful surprise,” said Liz Sweedy, the Morris County Clean Communities Coordinator. She continued, “Rosemary made my day and my year!”  Without any fanfare, this resident of Randolph goes out regularly and tackles litter along a busy street near her home.  In her honor, the MCMUA presented her with the “Leading by Example” Award.

 

Winners of the Slam Dunk the Junk Poster Contest:
Shreya Seripalli, Copeland Middle School, Rockaway Township;
Priya Patel and Lizzmarie Perez, Morris Hills High School;
Amanda Giglio, Morris Knolls High School;
Sheryl Peng, Mount Arlington Public School;
Mike Capobianco, Pequannock Township High School;
Carrie Schofield, Riverdale Public School.

For more information on the Morris County MUA, click here.

Recycling Club students from the Stony Brook School in Rockaway Township

Civil Air Patrol Squadron Holds Pre-Memorial Day Ceremony at Local Cemetery

By Frank Cahill -
Squadron Cadets salute the fallen while Taps is played

MORRIS COUNTY — On Tuesday, May 23, cadets with the Picatinny Squadron of Civil Air Patrol based at the Dover American Legion held a formal ceremony marking the first official Memorial Day events locally.  The squadron planted flags at hundreds of veterans’ grave sites together with members of Dover American Legion Baker Lodge 27 at the Locust Hill Cemetery.  Afterwards they played “Taps” and presented a salute to honor the memory of those who have fallen.

The Picatinny Composite Squadron NJ-093 of the New Jersey Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, the nation’s official United States Air Force Auxiliary, celebrates 45 years of service this year.  This milestone coincides with the 75th anniversary celebration of the founding of CAP as a civilian homeland defense operation under the US Army Air Force in December 1941, seven days before Pearl Harbor.

During the past 45 years the New Jersey Squadron has helped locate lost hikers, tracked down and recovered missing planes, ferried sick children for specialized hospital treatment, and trained hundreds of young men and women in military customs and courtesies, powered and glider flight, aerospace history and the basics of flight, emergency services, and search and rescue.

Like its predecessors, today’s Picatinny Squadron is providing young people with the opportunity to experience flying, receive STEM training in aerospace, cyber-security, and scientific  advancements, as well as supporting the community in Northern New Jersey with search and rescue and emergency service preparedness.

The national organization of Civil Air Patrol is a congressionally chartered, federally supported non-profit corporation that serves as the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. CAP has 58,000 adult and youth members nationwide, and maintains more than 500 aircraft throughout the country. In 2014, Congress awarded CAP members who served during World War II with a Congressional Gold Medal recognizing their contributions towards the war effort stateside.

In a world of heightened vigilance and an increased need for homeland security, the Civil Air Patrol motto “Semper Vigilans” or “Always Vigilant” remains as important today as it was when it was first founded during the dawn of the Second World War.  In honor of its proud history the Picatinny Squadron here in New Jersey continues the tradition of America’s Air Force Auxiliary, building the nation’s finest force of citizen volunteers serving America.

The Picatinny Composite Squadron is part of the CAP Northeast Region, New Jersey Wing. Its members are comprised of adults as well as teens from 13-17 from Morris, Warren and Sussex Counties. The group meets every Tuesday night from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  For more information click here.

Cadet Colonel Daniel Bailey and Cadet Senior Master Sergeant Sloane Liput planting American flags at Locust Hill Cemetery

Burroughs Graduates from Susquehanna University

By Frank Cahill -
Ashley Burroughs

PARSIPPANY — Ashley Burroughs, of Parsippany, graduated with a BA in Communications as Susquehanna University closed its 159th academic year with annual commencement exercises on May 17.

A 2013 graduate of Parsippany High School, Burroughs is the daughter of Don and Arletha Burroughs.

Susquehanna University is a selective, residential liberal arts college that provides a solid background in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as professional experiences. Students develop critical thinking, writing, teamwork and communication skills which, combined with internships and research opportunities, prepare them for a lifetime of personal and professional success. The university is recognized nationally for its commitment to off-campus study through the Global Opportunities program. Small classes enable faculty members to serve as mentors, as well as teachers. Ninety-six percent of Susquehanna students are employed or in graduate or professional school within six months of graduation.

The EDAM program, Engineering Design and Advanced Manufacturing

By Frank Cahill -

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School and Morris County School of Technology are proud to congratulate three graduating seniors, who will be the first students completing the EDAM program at the County College of Morris. The EDAM program, Engineering Design and Advanced Manufacturing, prepares students for an engineering career through computer applications, cutting edge technology, graphics, drafting, and prototyping.  Eli Davis, Robert Murphy, and Nathaniel Petricca represent Parsippany Hills High School, which happens to have the largest graduating class of the MCST/EDAM program of all the High Schools across Morris County. Parsippany Hills also has two more students representing the program as eleventh graders, Mark Maddox and Randall Rosado, for a total of five students in the program.

Shari Castelli, counselor at Morris County School of Technology reports, “The three students are in the first class to complete the program so they have been pioneers, willing to take a risk on something new. The students were on the ground floor of the NASA HUNCH program and have been able to both manufacture parts for the International Space Station and design objects to be used by astronauts on the International Space Station. These students were able to earn 32 college credits through the program, and possibly more.”

Nathaniel Petricca, “This was a great opportunity to get college experience, authentic working experiences, and exposure to different ways of being taught.”  The boys report that they are currently working on a variety of nuts, bolts, screws, sleeves, and hinges will be used as parts for more equipment on the International Space Station.

Parsippany High School Varsity Girls Softball team honored at town hall

By Frank Cahill -
Mayor James Barberio presenting Head Coach Chris Cleary with a certificate

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presented the Parsippany High School Varsity Girls Softball team with certificates honoring their victory of 2017 Morris County Softball Champions.

The team had an outstanding record of 23-6 and is currently tied for first place with Hanover Park in the North West Athletic Conference.

Those players honored were Luisa Barone, Claudia Bennett, Caitlin Brennan, Julia Del Viscio, Michelle Ebel, Alyssa Feola, Victoria Freire, Gabriella Gennarelli, Carly Homler, Paige Kaiser, Megan Leitner, Alivia Mercuro, Lilianna Vidal, Julia Vincent and Sarah Waffenfeld. Also Head Coach Cleary and Assistant Coaches Steve Miller and Gionna Florey.

The team proudly holding their certificates
Their celebration cake

PHS Band Celebrates 60 years of music making

By Frank Cahill -
The PHS Alumni Band Reunion held at Veterans Memorial Park

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Band held its 60th Anniversary celebration with a Spring Band Concert on Friday, May 19 and continued on Saturday, May 20, with a picnic at Veterans Memorial Park for all PHS Band Alumni and their family. This landmark reunion recognized 60 years of Bands at Parsippany High School. Many Band Directors and Band Members attended the event with food donated by Applebee’s and food catered by Texas Smoke Barbecue.

Welcome to the PHS Band Alumni
Craig Hunt (2016), Xue Ting Lin (2016) and Josh Lustig (2015) were the youngest Alumni’s at the picnic
Robbie Furman (1989) with his balloon creations
Band Director Greg Dalakian and Brian Stanton
Steve Klein (1985), Mary Giercyk Castillo (1986), Lionel “Lonnie” Roland (1986), Robbie Furman (1989) and Chris Marques (1988)
Tamar Fine Yarkoni (1989), Saxophone with Nancy Polen McAllister (1989) Drum Major
Miles Dickens (2028), Nancy Dickens (Band Parent 1988-2000) and Calvin Dickens (2031)

 

Balloon Artist Robbie Furman (1989)
William Min (1995) and Lew Kelly (1995)
Phil Hughes, Michele Hughes (1987), Steve Dickens and Nancy Dickens
Drum Majors and Band Directors – Joe Bernabe (1970), Ellen Klein (1979), Greg Dalakian (2004), Joe Stella, Adrienne Thaunberg Perez (2003), Chris Arnold and Nancy Polen McAllister (1989)
Leslie (Griswold) Silver (1979), Kathy (Eccles) O’Rourke (1979), Joe Bernabe (1970), Laura (Miguelez) Quay (1979), Ellen Klein (1979) and Terri (Thompson) Herold (1979)
Band Directors: Erin Neglio, Chris Arnold, Mike Russo, Joe Bernabe, Joe Stella and Greg Dalakian
The delicious celebration cake

Christie Administration announces $78.75 million in Municipal Aid grants to help control property taxes

By Frank Cahill -
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie

TRENTON — The Christie Administration today announced 373 Local Aid grants totaling $78.75 million to help municipalities advance a variety of transportation projects without burdening local property taxpayers.

“Most of the Municipal Aid grants will support road resurfacing or preservation projects, and will help towns make much needed repairs,” NJDOT Commissioner Richard T. Hammer said.   “These grants will help keep local roads in a state of good repair without burdening local property taxes.”

The competitive Municipal Aid grant program attracted 628 applications worth $287.3 million in work.  A total 373 municipalities applicants were awarded grants, which are funded through the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund.

Under the Municipal Aid grant program, each county is apportioned a share of the total funding based on population and the number of local centerline miles.  Municipalities compete for portions of their county’s share.  Past performance in connection with timely award of projects and construction close-out factor into the evaluation of the Municipal Aid grant proposals. Of the $78.75 million, there is $5 million allotted for municipalities qualifying for Urban Aid under state law, with the awards determined by the Department of Community Affairs.

When evaluating municipal aid grant applications, NJDOT gives an additional point to municipalities that have adopted Complete Streets policies. At the time municipal aid applications were due there were 122 municipalities with complete streets policies, and all but eleven submitted applications.  Of them, 99 were recommended for grants totaling $21.4 million.

A total of 134 municipalities and eight counties now have adopted Complete Streets policies, which establishes guidelines that require consideration be given to pedestrians and bicyclists when local transportation projects are being planned, designed, and built.  NJDOT adopted its award-winning policy in December, 2009.

NJDOT provides 75 percent of a municipal aid grant when a town awards a contract and the remaining 25 percent upon completion of the project.

PHS holds assembly on the dangers of drinking and driving

By Frank Cahill -

PARSIPPANY — On Friday, May 26, Parsippany High School held their Sixth Annual Anti-Drunk Driving Program for seniors. This program was created to help raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. Parsippany-Troy Hills law enforcement officials worked closely with school administrators, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Parsippany Fire Department District 5 and Atlantic Air Medical Unit and other community stakeholders, to help raise student awareness against drunk driving, especially at this time of the year with upcoming prom and graduation celebrations.

The program is so unique from year to year which adds to the impact that is left on the students.  The students created the video from beginning to end and take complete ownership of the project.  The actors, seniors Cristina Fernandez, Joseph Ruggiero, Jackson Wolfe, Yash Patel and Jennifer Mazo started planning this program in early October.

PHS holds assembly on the dangers of drinking and driving
1 of 14
The crash scene
Volunteers from District 5 gaining access to the vehicle
Jackson Wolfe, died on impact
Jackson Wolfe, died on impact
Joseph Ruggerio enters the police vehicle
Jennifer Mazo, died on impact
Yash Patel being airlifted to the hospital
Jackson Wolfe, died on impact
District 5 Deputy Chief Matthew Palmieri
The accident scene
Atlantic Air One responding to the scene
Atlantic Air One landing in PHS parking lot
Atlantic Air One transporting to the hospital
Seniors watching the assembly on the danger of drinking and driving

During the staged event, Senior Joseph Ruggerio was charged with Criminal Vehicular Manslaughter, DUI and Negligent homicide. Christina Fernandez was paralyzed from neck down and can never walk again. Jackson Wolfe died on impact. Yash Patel was paralyzed from waist down and Jennifer Mazo died at the scene.

Sarah Di Pippa and Divij Malkani, was the Director, Editor and Camera. Special thanks to Mr. Thomas Rizk, Detective Thomas Lenanhan, Detective Curving, Captain Wieners and Patrolman Levi.

The video was produced by Video on the Go.

Arrest for theft from lockers at Planet Fitness

By Frank Cahill -

PARSIPPANY — After two reported thefts of wallets from lockers at the Parsippany Planet Fitness on April 28 and May 9 an investigation was launched by the Parsippany Police Department’s Detective Bureau.

During the investigation, Detective Sergeant J. Puso and Detective M. McAuliffe investigated multiple fraudulent transactions with the victim’s credit card which led them to a suspect, Jenna Randzio, 19, Oak Ridge.

After Detectives spoke with Ms. Randzio on May 10, she was charged and arrested the following day and charged with two counts of Third Degree Credit Card Theft-Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card and two counts of Theft by Unlawful Taking of Movable Property a 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.

CCM Holds 48th Commencement Ceremony

By Frank Cahill -

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) presented diplomas to the Class of 2017 during its 48th commencement ceremony on Friday, May 26.

Approximately 1,450 students – many who are transferring to top four-year institutions to earn their bachelor’s degrees – were eligible to receive diplomas in one of four degrees: Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science. The five most popular programs CCM students received degrees in are Business Administration, Humanities Social Science (Liberal Arts), Nursing, Criminal Justice and Biology. The graduates completed their studies between August 2016 and May 2017.

More than 500 students from the Class of 2017 took part in this year’s commencement ceremony. Due to the number of students who participated in this year’s commencement, the ceremony was moved offsite to the Mennen Sports Arena.

Included among the top schools CCM graduates are transferring to are Emerson College, Johnson & Wales University, Penn State University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the University of Texas, Arlington, along with New Jersey’s leading colleges and universities.

Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, who became CCM’s third president this past September, gave the commencement address.

”Today is a joyous occasion as we celebrate all the hard work, sacrifice and commitment that have brought you to this point of completion and new beginnings. Your education will open up doors of opportunity and set you on the path to a more fulfilling life,” said Iacono. But … I challenge you not to stop there. Instead, take what you have learned – and will continue to learn – and use it to open the doors of opportunity for others. As much as others have helped you to reach this milestone, be that help for others.”

Standing with tradition, this year’s County College of Morris Peace Prize recipient was recognized at commencement. The winner of the 2017 CCM Peace Prize is Jessica Ann Jones, of Hopatcong, for her video “Light.” Her video can be viewed by clicking here. Professor Laura Gabrielsen, from the Department of English and Philosophy, served as Jones’ mentor for the project.

The creator of the winning entry each year receives a $1,000 award, provided by the CCM Foundation. Jones also will have her name added to a permanent plaque of Peace Prize winners located in the Student Community Center.

This is the 15th year the college has awarded its Peace Prize, which is organized and administered by Professor Peter Maguire of the Department of English and Philosophy. Established in the fall of 2001, the Peace Prize competition provides students with the opportunity to apply their imagination and creativity to the design and production of a work that both commemorates the events of September 11, 2001 and makes a positive statement about the importance and pursuit of world peace.

Assemblywoman’s suit alleging challenger violated finance laws dismissed

By Frank Cahill -
From left, Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce (R-26th) and Morris County Freeholder William "Hank" Lyon

MORRISTOWN — A day after filing her lawsuit against Morris County Freeholder William “Hank” Lyon, a Morris County judge dismissed on Thursday Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce’s suit against her challenger in the June primary over alleged campaign finance violations. Assignment Judge Stuart Minkowitz, in an order obtained by NJ Advance Media, dismissed the suit for lack of…

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Letter to the editor: Support Hank Lyon for Assembly

By Frank Cahill -

Dear Editor:

As a taxpaying resident of the district, I am disgusted by the disregard that his opponent, Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, shows for the people she is supposed to represent. She collected an endorsement and a check from NJEA, the notorious teachers’ public union. Despite vocal objections from her constituents, DeCroce backstabbed them by voting for a massive gas tax increase last year, then twisted the dagger by saying that she is “proud” of the vote. She must be equally proud of avoiding her own tax hike as she pays for fuel out of her campaign funds. Between her six-digit public pension and a legislator’s salary, cannot she pay for her own gas?

Hank Lyon is everything BettyLou DeCroce’s is not: young, enthusiastic and conservative. As Freeholder, he actively worked to lower Morris County taxes and debt. To save money, he went as far as eliminating health benefits freeholders – himself including! Lyon brings a conservative vision that is so much needed in Trenton. Despite DeCroce’s dirty attacks, he has waged a clean, issues-based campaign.

I urge all my fellow Republicans to clean the house by voting for Hank Lyon in the June 6 primary.

Maxim Sapozhnikov
Montville

PHHS Key Club joins Kiwanis Club breakfast meeting

By Frank Cahill -

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School Key Club joined the members of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany breakfast meeting on Thursday, May 25. Joining the Key Clubbers was Club Advisor Bonnie Sturm. Also pictured with the students is PHHS liaison Davey Willans and Kiwanis Director of Sponsored Youth Ron Orthwein.

Key Club is in international student-led service organization that provides its members with opportunities to provide service, build character, and develop leadership. Members participate in various service activities such as raising money for UNICEF, creating care cards for patients at Children’s Specialized Hospital, our Annual Senior Citizen Dinner Theater, and supporting local food banks.

Earlier this month, members of New Jersey District of Key Club International attended the 71st Annual NJ District Key Club Convention in Long Branch. Attendees took part in leadership workshops, learned about fundraising and advocacy, heard from state officers and keynote speaker Ben Nemtin of MTV’s “The Buried Life”, listened to inspiring stories, and met fellow Key Clubbers who shared the same passion for volunteerism.

The 21 Parsippany Hills Key Clubbers who attended DCON this year did an outstanding job of representing PHHS Key Club in undoubtedly the most successful convention ever, placing in various contests and winning the coveted Spirit Stick Award for our division for their display of spirit! Congrats to the distinguished officers award recipients:

President: Asha Patel
Vice‑President: Karoline Xiong
Treasurer: Vishal Mansuria
Secretaries: Crystal Tran and Michael Tran
Bulletin Editors: Tara Srinivasan and Shreya Nair
Historians: Juliana Urbis and Thomas Shweh.

The PHHS Key Club recently attended and was honored for the following awards:

    • First place for non‑digital poster: Karoline Xiong
    • First place for club bulletin: Shreya Nair and Tara Srinivasan
    • Second Place in the Non‑traditional scrapbook category:  Juliana Urbis and Thomas Shweh
    • Second place in the Impromptu Essay contest: Tara Kakkaramadam
    • Distinguished Lieutenant Governor and Outstanding District Board Member: Vanessa Ting
    • Golden Member Award: Tara Kakkaramadam

An additional congratulations to Kaitlin Cirillo for becoming Lieutenant Governor of Division 21.

Parsippany Hills High School Key Club is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

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

Driver fails to keep right crashes into parked landscaping trailer

By Frank Cahill -
The 2007 Acura RDX sustained heavy front damage

PARSIPPANY — Mr. Everton Scott, Parsippany, was traveling south on Old Chester Road, and failed to keep right, crossed the center of the roadway and struck a parked trailer owned by Cutting Edge Landscaping. Mr. Scott was driving a 2007 Acura RDX which sustained heavy damage to the front driver side of the vehicle. The trailer did not show any visible damage.

Mr. Scott’s Acura was towed from the scene by Ajaco Towing.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Marc Fernandez issued Mr. Scott a summons for Careless Driving and Probationary driver’s license.

The trailer was owned by Cutting Edge Landcaping
The 2007 Acura RDX sustained heavy front damage on the driver side of the vehicle
Pieces of the vehicle on the roadway

Warrior Yoga Event to Support Local Childhood Cancer Warrior

By Frank Cahill -
Sean Ries

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany resident Sean Ries is a brave 10-year-old warrior, waging a battle against pediatric brain cancer since 2012. After a two-phase surgery under the care of a team of doctors at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) and Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York City, Sean has received “active surveillance”, meaning MRIs at MSKCC every three months to watch for any changes.  Unfortunately, in February his family received the heartbreaking news that Sean’s cancer has returned, exactly five years after his initial diagnosis.

Sean once again faces surgery at MSKCC with his trusted team of doctors.  He also again has the support of the community, who is rallying around Sean and the Ries family through TEAM Sean (Together Everyone Achieves Miracles) and a series of fundraisers this June.  Proceeds from the fundraisers will help support Sean and his family with medical expenses as well as donated to the Children’s Brain Tumor Family Foundation, a registered 501(c)3.

Warrior Yoga, the next fundraiser, will be taking place on Sunday, June 4 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Parsippany PAL at 33 Baldwin Road. Enjoy a night of strength, focus, and relaxation led by Parsippany mom, Ankita Roelofs.

Additionally, participants can shop with local representatives from companies like Thirty-One, Rodan & Fields, Jazzercise, Young Living Essential Oils, Touchstone Crystals, LuLaRue and more.  All will be making donations back to TEAMSean.

Registration for the event is $20.00 and can be completed through by clicking here.  The event site can also process donations. Contact Ankita Roelofs at Amc927@yahoo.com for additional information.

36th Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic

By Frank Cahill -
Greg Cavallo, B Rapp, Ed Korleski, Reese Evans enjoyed the 2016 Golf Classic
Area women intent on their game at the Social and Luncheon

PARSIPPANY — For over 35 years the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) has held its Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic & Luncheon Social to benefit the club’s Scholarship and Education Fund.

All money raised goes back to Parsippany students (open to both male and female students) in educational programs such as scholarships to graduating high school seniors, Citizenship Awards to graduating eighth graders, fifth Grade Reading Awards, a Spelling Bee, Dr. Seuss Birthday events and  library donations.

In 2016, thirty-one students were honored by the club, including ten high school seniors who each received a scholarship. In addition, starting this year  we 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.

The event will be held on Tuesday, July 11 at the Knoll Country Club West.  The fundraiser includes a social and games or golf and for all attendees; a buffet lunch, Tricky Tray, 50/50 Raffle, Door Prizes and more!

Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills club member MaryAnn Coyne with her husband Bill admiring some of the great Tricy Tray Baskets.

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.m.

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.

Reservations are needed by June 29.

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.

Tricky Tray items included Baskets of Cheer, Yankee tickets, restaurant gift cards, show tickets and much more.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC), which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.  For club information call Cathy at (973) 984-0758, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com  or click here to visit their website; or follow on FaceBook.

Parsippany MOMS Clubs Welcome New Members at Recent Open House

By Frank Cahill -

PARSIPPANY — The MOMS Clubs of Parsippany East and West held a joint open house and children’s yoga class at the Parsippany Main Library on May 5.  Over thirty children and thirty adults were in attendance, with many of the younger guests participating in a lively yoga class conducted by Ankita Roelofs, herself a former member of the MOMS Club of Parsippany West.

Caregivers were able to connect over refreshments both before and after the class.

The MOMS Clubs of Parsippany East and West are chapters of the International MOMS Club, a non-profit organization focused on Moms Offering Moms Support.  Its mission is to offer support and enriching activities to both mothers and their children.  Activities include organized family friendly outings; various activity groups for both children and moms; moms’ nights out; and monthly service projects to benefit both children in need and the larger community.  Members represent a diverse group and all moms are welcome.

Didn’t make the open house but still want to learn about MOMS Club chapters in Parsippany?

If you live in Parsippany with children who attend or will attend Troy Hills, Lake Hiawatha, Northvail, Knollwood, or Rockaway Meadow schools, email parsippanymomsclubeast@gmail.com  or click here.

Those whose children attend or will attend Intervale, Mount Tabor, Lake Parsippany, Eastlake, and Littleton schools should email parsippanymomsclubwest@gmail.com or click here.

Both chapters can also be found on their public Facebook pages.

 

Letter to the editor: Reader praises Drayer Physical Therapy

By Frank Cahill -
The center specializes in manual therapy, neurological rehabilitation, orthopedics, pain management, pre- and post-operative rehabilitation, sports medicine, and work and industry services

Dear Editor:

I am writing this letter based on my experience with Drayer Physical Therapy, which opened recently on New Road in Parsippany.

I began treatment at their Flanders location and transferred to Parsippany when it opened in March, since I live in Parsippany.

The Center Manager, Jonathan Zaid, and his receptionist, Aishath, are absolutely incredible! They are both very warm and make you feel welcome the moment you step in the door. Both Jonathan and Aishath take a personal interest in your life and you know they mean it and are listening when they ask the question, “How are you?” 

Jonathan is incredibly knowledgeable and extremely dedicated to his patients. He gives out his personal cell phone and makes sure he is available for his patients at all times. I can’t even express how impressive this is as most people these days leave their work at the office, but not him.

You can tell he means it when he says call or text me anytime. A couple of weeks ago, I had severe pain on a Sunday afternoon. My roommate texted Jonathan and he immediately called to speak with me. I advised him of my symptoms and he walked me through different exercises until the pain calmed down. He even checked on me the next day!  

Drayer is a special kind of place. I have been to a number of physical therapy facilities over the years but have never been to a place like this. The employees truly care and make a difference! I strongly recommend Drayer Physical Therapy!

Jamie Savage

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