Burglary to Vehicle at Planet Fitness

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Oct 21, 2018

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Patrol Officer P. Kolln responded to the parking lot of Planet Fitness, 2956 Route 10, Powdermill Plaza West, at 4:49 p.m. on October 18, for a reported burglary to a vehicle. Upon his arrival, he spoke to the victim who advised him that she parked her vehicle at 3:50 p.m. and placed her purse in the trunk while she worked out.

When she returned to her vehicle approximately one hour later, she found that her purse with all of her belongings was stolen. No signs of forced entry were found on the vehicle and the victim had possession of her car keys.

Parsippany Police Department Detectives, along with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit responded to the scene to assist in the investigation. The value of the stolen belongs was estimated to be $960.00.

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

Hackettstown Man Arrested for Possession of CDS

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 21, 2018

PARSIPPANY — Patrol Officer S. Abrusci was conducting a property check at 6:38 p.m. on October 17 at Parsippany Inn and Suites when he observed a 2011 Hyundai Sonata registered in Pennsylvania parked and occupied by a single male. When Officer Abrusci returned approximately one hour later, the vehicle was still in the same spot and occupied by the same male occupant.

As he approached the vehicle, the occupant appeared to place something under his seat. After a brief investigation by Officers Abrusci and G. Bloete, the driver, Felix Vasquez, 23, Hackettstown, was placed under arrest. Mr. Vasquez was found to be in possession of one glassine fold of suspected Heroin, one empty glassine fold, one hypodermic needle full of suspected heroin, along with two used hypodermic needles. He was transported to police headquarters for processing.

While there he was charged with one count of Third Degree Possession of CDS (Heroin); and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a Disorderly Persons Offense.

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.

Driver Charged With Possession of CDS Arrest; Failure to inspect Motor Vehicle

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 21, 2018

PARSIPPANY — Patrol Officers J. Seeger and J. Hughes observed a 1998 Honda Accord fail to maintain its lane by crossing the double yellow line and white line on Route 46 near South Beverwyck Road at 10:26 p.m. on Monday, October 15.

The vehicle also did not have an inspection sticker. Upon speaking to the driver, Travis Amico, 29, Clifton, the officers detected the odor of raw marijuana emanating from the interior of the vehicle.

After a brief investigation he was found to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. He was transported to police headquarters for processing. While there, he was charged with Possession of Less than 50 Grams of Marijuana, a Disorderly Persons Offense; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a Disorderly Persons Offense; Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle, a Traffic Offense; Failure to Maintain Lane, a Traffic Offense; and Failure to Inspect, a Traffic Offense.

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.

Driving While Intoxicated Arrest

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 21, 2018

PARSIPPANY — A concerned motorist observed a vehicle being erratically driven and contacted Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Communication Center at 12:07 p.m. on Monday, October 15. The caller further advised that he was able to get the driver of the 2006 Toyota 4 Runner to pull over. Patrol Officer G. Bloete responded to the scene and made contact with the driver, Orion Crandall, 23, Essex Fells.

After a brief investigation he was found to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana. He was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. While there he was charged with Possession of Less than 50 Grams of Marijuana, a Disorderly Persons Offense; Driving While Intoxicated, a Traffic Offense; Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle, a Traffic Offense; and Reckless Driving, a Traffic Offense.

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.

Driving while suspended leads to Possession of CDS Arrest

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 21, 2018

PARSIPPANY — Patrol Officer J. Hughes conducted a random license plate inquiry at 11:55 p.m. on Sunday, October 14, on a 2018 Hyundai Tucson, which showed the registered owner had a suspended driver’s license. He conducted a motor vehicle stop and spoke to the driver, Angie Osorio-Ospina, 29, from Dover. While speaking to Ms. Osorio-Ospina, Officer Hughes detected the distinct odor of burnt marijuana.

After a brief investigation she was found to be in possession of a plastic container of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. She was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters for processing. While there, she was charged with the following:

Possession of less than fifty Grams of Marijuana, a Disorderly Persons Offense; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a Disorderly Persons Offense; Driving While Suspended, a Traffic Offense; and Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle, a Traffic 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.

Theft of tires and rims on Edwards Road

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 21, 2018

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hill Police Officers responded at 6:24 a.m. on Saturday, October 13 to a property on Edwards Road for a burglary and theft in progress. The Parsippany Communication Center relayed to officers that the caller interrupted two males who were wearing masks that had already smashed the passenger window and removed two tires and rims from the vehicle. The suspect’s vehicle was last seen heading towards the Route 280 interchange.

Officers spoke to the caller who stated that he had arrived at his property and observed two males wearing masks near his nephew’s 20018 Honda Accord. After a brief verbal exchange with the suspects, they fled the area in a light colored hatchback.

After further investigation, it was determined that the unknown suspects shattered the front passenger window to gain entry to the vehicle and steal miscellaneous items. They also removed all four wheels lug nuts, and stole two of the four tires and rims.

The Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.

Approximate value of the items stolen was $1,000.

Making Strides of Parsippany attracts 2,980 participants

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 21, 2018

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano with Cheerleaders from Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano was at the starting line to greet the walkers in today’s “Making Strides of Parsippany” event held in the Century Office Campus.

At the time this article was published the Parsippany Making Strides raised $455,164. You can still make a donation by clicking here.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer events raise awareness and money to save lives from breast cancer. The money you raise and the donations made are helping the American Cancer Society fund innovative breast cancer research, 24/7 information and support, prevention and early detection initiatives, and so much more.

Top teams were BASF Florham Park raising $20,311; Rising to the Challenge raising $18,636; The Pink Striders raising $15,129; GAF raising $12,388; Team Mary raising $11,231; Rockaway Dental Associates raising $10,278 and #teamRocketsMom raising $10,166.

Top participants were Joan Van Soest raising $18,636; Sylvia G Samaniego raising $14,103; and Nancy Medford raising $14,042.

Parsippany Purple Stride

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Morris County Republican Victory PAC Offers Reward for ID of HQ Vandals

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 21, 2018

webber-signs-cover — Numerous Jay Webber for Congress and other campaign signs shredded and dumped

MORRISTOWN —Early Thursday morning, campaign volunteers were shocked and horrified to find numerous Jay Webber for Congress and other campaign signs shredded and dumped at MRVP Campaign Headquarters at 26 Schuyler Place, Morristown.

According to Executive Director Rob Zwigard, who filed a report with Morristown police, “our volunteers including older women, mothers and teens who work and volunteer at our Headquarters are terrified to return as they could be subject to further violence.”

In this election season where brazen government leaders like Eric Holder, Cory Booker and Maxine Waters have made statements encouraging aggressive confrontations with Republicans, it has created an atmosphere which can incite some to misread these cues and act by violent and illegal means.

According to Zwigard “I know Chip Robinson and other Morris Democrat leaders – while I disagree with them strongly on important issues, I know them to be honorable and decent people. I do not think Mikie Sherrill or her Campaign were at all directly involved in these despicable acts, however, the national and statewide Democrat rhetoric has created an environment where some find this abhorrent behavior acceptable.

MRVP calls on government leaders – Republican and Democrat alike to denounce these illegal, threatening and violent acts and – encourage all activists – of all parties and persuasions – to use peaceful and legal means to vigorously advocate for the candidate(s) off their choice.

Sheriff James Gannon, whose facility is across the street from MRVP Headquarters, is investigating the incident in conjunction with the Morristown Police.

According to Zwigard, “MRVP is offering a $1,000 reward for any information that will lead to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators. Identities of anyone who comes forward will be kept confidential.”

Zwigard concluded, “in these final weeks for the campaign, I hope both parties can conduct a civil issue oriented campaign, ensuring that all campaign supporters acquit themselves in an honorable and respectful manor. One that will ensure the free fair and honest elections Morris County residents deserve”. Mr. Zwigard can be reached at MRVP Headquarters (973) 539-7630.

Letter to the editor: Vote for Mikie Sherrill

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Letters to the Editor

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Oct 19, 2018

Dear Editor:

By way of political affiliation I am a registered Republican and have voted in every primary and general election over the past 35 years. Over the past two years I have watched as the Republican Party that once was known for being fiscally conservative and socially progressive disappear only to be replaced by a Trump tribe that is driven and defined by ignorance, fear and self serving greed.

With that in mind, now more than ever it is time for Republicans to put country before party and consider voting for Mikie Sherrill on November 6. Her pledge to work on a bipartisan basis to reduce taxes, to support a woman’s right to choose and to support common sense gun solutions speaks to issues that those of us living in the 11th Congressional District know are critical to our well being.

Perhaps, if politicians like Jay Webber rediscover and reclaim the traditional values of the Grand Old Party, we can return to the Republican fold. Until then candidates like Mikie Sherrill with her service as a Navy Lieutenant Commander helicopter pilot, and her work in the NJ Federal Prosecutor’s office deserve our consideration and our vote.

Bob Crawford

Denville, NJ 07834

Slow driver charged with DWI

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 19, 2018

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Patrol Sergeant Ross Cooper was travelling on Route 46 West near Lackawanna Avenue when he observed a 2011 Honda Civic travelling approximately 15 mph in a 50 mph zone. This incident occurred on Sunday, October 14 at 7:29 p.m.

The vehicle was also swerving back and forth in the lanes of travel. He initiated a motor vehicle stop and made contact with the driver, Franklin Calle-Chimborazo, 20, Morristown.

While speaking to him, Sergeant Cooper detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from him. While speaking to Mr. Calle-Chimborazo, he advised the Sergeant that he was coming from Morristown and trying to follow his GPS to get back to Morristown.

After a brief investigation, he was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters for processing. While there, he was charged with Driving While Intoxicated; Underage Person Operating a Motor Vehicle after Consuming Alcohol; Failure to Maintain Lane and Reckless Driving.

“Peeping Tom” arrested after incident in Tivoli Gardens

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 19, 2018

tivoli-gardens — Tivoli Gardens is located at 1100 Parsippany Boulevard

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Patrol Officers G. Tosh, J. Hughes, and S. Kurza responded to 1100 Parsippany Boulevard on Saturday, July 28 at 5:07 a.m. after a female witnessed a middle aged male running through the Tivoli Garden complex attempting to pull up his pants.

Shortly after patrols arrived on scene, they made contact with the caller and a male victim who had exited his apartment.

The male victim stated while he was using his toilet, he looked out the window and saw a male’s face pressed against the screen. He further stated that it appeared the unknown male suspect had his pants down. The suspect fled the area after a brief exchange with the male victim.

Detective Sergeant J. Puso and Detective M. McAuliffe conducted an investigation into the incident and identified the suspect as Frederick C. Longo Jr., 48, Robbinsville.

A warrant was issued for his arrest on October 4 for one count of Fourth Degree Invasion of Privacy and one count of Fourth Degree Criminal Trespass-Peering into Windows.

He was arrested on October 18 by the Robbinsville Police Department and transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his court appearance.

The Senior Prom: Aloha Friday at Parsippany Community Center

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 19, 2018

Mayor Michael Soriano kissing the "Prom Queen," Caroline Lambert

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills presented “The Senior Prom: Aloha Friday” on Friday, October 19 held at the Parsippany Community Center, 1130 Knoll Road.

Caroline Lambert was crowned the “Prom Queen” and Bob Bogard was crowned the “Prom King” by Mayor Michael Soriano.

Music was provided by DJ Pete and the seniors enjoyed a delicious hot meal with dessert and dancing.

ShopRite of Parsippany donated the pineapples, and Councilman Michael dePierro and Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani provided money to purchase the meal.

Michelle Picone, Director of Parsippany Community Center, coordinated the event.

Rainbow Lakes resident Mark Rabson, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani, Councilman Michael dePierro, Aina Ozols and Dolores DiCarlo

Mayor Michael Soriano kissing the “Queen” of the prom, Caroline Lambert

Mayor Michael Soriano, Prom Queen Caroline Lambert and Prom King Bob Bogard

The 2018 Senior Prom attracted over 175 seniors from Parsippany

Parsippany residents Donna Martone and Rosemary

The Prom King and Prom Queen of the Prom dancing, Caroline Lambert and Bob Bogard

BBBSNNJ 13th Annual Halloweekend 5k and Fun Run

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 19, 2018

PARSIPPANY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern NJ (BBBSNNJ) will be hosting the 13th Annual Halloweekend 5K and Fun Run, formerly known as Walk for Kids’ Sake. The proceeds of the event will directly benefit the organization’s one-to-one mentoring programs. BBBSNNJ provides children facing adversity with professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. BBBSNNJ has, and continues to, match “Bigs” with “Littles” in meaningful relationships for over 50 years.

This year, BBBSNNJ and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts are once again partnering for our Halloweekend 5k, successfully blending Halloween and a day of family fun! Enjoyed by hundreds from the community, the event raises funds for BBBSNNJ’ local mentoring programs, serving over 1,200 children annually. Wyndham has been our “Presenting Sponsor” for nearly a decade.

In addition to our yearly 5K, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts partners with BBBSNNJ to administer a successful Workplace Mentoring Program, designed to help children reach their full potential through one-to-one mentor relationships. Children in the program, meet with their “Bigs” at Wyndham and participate in various educational and creative projects.

The Halloweekend 5K and Fun Run will be held on October 28. The event will take place at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Headquarters, 22 Sylvan Way. Sign-in and registration will begin at 9:00 a.m., and the run/walk will start at 10:00 a.m. For those ready for the competition, the race will be timed by Rock Race Timing LLC. In addition to the excitement of the day, Halloween costumes are welcomed and encouraged.

Following the event, as a thank you to the “Littles” for their continued growth and success in the program, the Fall Frenzie will begin. The festival will include fun lawn games, activities, a costume competition, and a bouncy house.

To register, donate, or start a team click here.

For more information or to sponsor this event, please contact Christine Millien at (973) 335-3044 ext. 130 or devintern@northjerseybigs.org.

To register for the walk click here.

Big Brothers Big Sisters provides children facing adversity with professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern NJ has been bringing positive influences into children’s lives for nearly 50 years and remains committed to providing a premier mentoring experience to every child in need in our seven-county area. Big Brothers Big Sisters brings the magic of mentoring to vulnerable youth, giving them the life-building tools and support they need to grow into responsible, productive adults.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is one of the largest global hospitality companies, providing travelers with access to a collection of trusted hospitality brands in hotels, vacation ownership, and unique accommodations including vacation exchange, holiday parks, and managed home rentals. With a collective inventory of more than 120,000 places to stay across 100 countries on six continents, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and its 38,000 associates welcomes people to experience travel the way they want. This is enhanced by Wyndham Rewards, the Company’s re-imagined guest loyalty program across its businesses, which is making it simpler for members to earn more rewards and redeem their points faster. For more information click here.

Pre-Diabetes & Diabetes Management Program at the Y

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 19, 2018

Diabetes monitor, diet and healthy food eating nutritional concept with clean fruits and vegetables with diabetic measuring tool kit

MOUNTAIN LAKES — In this introductory free program on pre-diabetes and diabetes type 2, you will learn the importance of controlling your blood sugar with natural pain relief through food, fitness, and lifestyle. You’ll also discover self-help techniques to minimize symptoms. Program takes place on Tuesday, November 6 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and all are welcome.

Please pre-register online at www.lakelandhillsymca.com or by calling the Y at (973) 334-2820. As almost 35% of the US population doesn’t know they are pre-diabetic, this presentation will also focus on the Y’s new Diabetes Disease Prevention Program launching in January.

Home School Gym Program Offered at the Y

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 19, 2018

MOUNTAIN LAKES — Parents, do you have a home-schooler aged Pre-K through 4th grade? The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA has a 45-minute program for them beginning November 1 on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

Class consists of exercise, group games, and sports including: soccer, basketball, baseball/softball, relay races, and obstacle courses. Non-members welcome.

Program runs in seven-week sessions through June. Cost per session is $58.00 for members; $87.00 for non-members.

For more information, contact Lyn Weldon at the Y, (973) 334-2820.

County Clerk’s Office Hand Delivers Ballot to Voter

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 19, 2018

MORRIS COUNTY — After sending out more than 20,000 vote by mail ballots to meet the statutory deadline by September 22, 2018, it was learned that one of the many staff members who worked on getting the mailing out on time made an innocent human error and placed one ballot in the wrong envelope.

On Sunday, October 14, 2018, immediately upon learning of the error the Clerk’s Office hand delivered the correct ballot to the voter at his home. Thus, the voter was not disenfranchised and was able to vote before he left on a trip.

Once again, the County Clerk’s Office has shown great customer service to the residents of Morris County.

Kiwanis Club donates to Family Promise of Morris County

By

Nicolas Limanov

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Oct 19, 2018

Family Promise donation — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation President Frank Cahill, President Family Promise of Morris County Stephen Hammond and Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Karen DeChristopher

PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation President Frank Cahill, presented a donation to Family Promise in the amount of $500.00. Accepting the check was President Family Promise of Morris County Stephen Hammond while Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Karen DeChristopher looks on.

Family Promise of Morris County, Inc. is a non-sectarian, not-for-profit organization dedicated to ending the crisis of homelessness faced by Morris County families by partnering with other public and private agencies, religious congregations and community volunteers to provide shelter, case management and mentoring services leading to self sufficiency.

Family Promise of Morris County is a non-profit organization modeled after Family Promise started in Union County in 1986. This program has been replicated nationwide, involving 4,000 congregations and over 160,000 volunteers from over 180 networks. Family Promise of Morris County has 76 participating congregations and involves over 1,600 dedicated volunteers. Each year, many families in crisis are provided with emergency shelter,
meals and support services. In 2017, we served 44 individuals in our shelter program and worked with them to obtain permanent housing, employment & childcare. In 2017, our Community Support Program served 33 families and 35 single women.

How does the Network operate?
A host congregation provides overnight lodging for a maximum of 14 guests for a period of one week at its facility. Support groups (other congregations and civic groups) provide volunteers and food. Guests are given dinner, evening companionship, beds for the night and early morning breakfast. Their daytime hours are spent searching for employment, working, attending classes and/or seeking affordable housing. Families entering the Family Promise family shelter are provided with:

• Warm safe shelter • Transportation to & from shelter • Three nutritious meals/day • On-going emotional support from volunteers • Intensive case management and life skills • 24 hour on-call response • Counseling • Health assessment and monitoring • Child care Assistance • Phone line and computer • Information and referrals • Relocation assistance • Donations of furniture & household items • Follow up assistance and mentoring

What happens when families leave shelter? The Community Support Program (CSP) provides assistance to those who have successfully transitioned from shelter into their own homes. CSP families receive in-home case management, 24-hour on call support/crisis intervention, financial literacy and debt reduction, mentoring programs, and in-kind support. We tailor our services to meet the needs of each family rather than trying to fit them into an existing mold. The main goal of this program is to keep families housed and together and to break the cycle of homelessness and generational poverty. CSP was expanded to include providing case management to families currently on our waiting list and those who have transitioned to permanent or transitional housing from other agencies. We are also working closely with other local non-profit organizations to connect their clients to additional community resources that they may need.

Our Promise is based out of the basement of First Baptist Church of Morristown and serves the local homeless population. It provides phone and computer access, mailing address, restrooms, warming/cooling center, information and referral, linkage to medical and dental services, case management, systems advocacy and more. Our Promise is open Monday to Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and can be reached by phone at (973) 644-0100 or email at ourpromise@familypromisemorris.org.

Kiwanis International is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Our members, Kiwanians, are service-minded men and women who are united in their commitment and compassion for others.

At the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, we want to ensure that all children have the opportunity to lead healthy, successful lives. We believe that by helping one child, you help the world.

You are invited to attend a meeting on Thursday morning at 7:15 a.m. at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46, Parsippany.

We hope you will be able to join us to learn more about Kiwanis and see how you fit into the picture. Newcomers and visiting clubs always welcome!

Gene Haas Foundation Provides $10,000 to Support CCM STEM Students

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 19, 2018

gene-haas-foundation-check — Katie Olsen, CCM Foundation executive director; Patrick J. Enright, dean of the School of Professional Studies and Applied Sciences; Professor Venny Fuentes; John Schamarek, representing the Gene Haas Foundation; Eric Pedersen, lab assistant; President Anthony J. Iacono; Gostan Abdelmesih, representing the Gene Haas Foundation; and Dr. Bette Simmons, vice president of Student Development and Enrollment Management. Photo Credit: John Hester

RANDOLPH — The Gene Haas Foundation has provided County College of Morris (CCM) with a $10,000 grant to continue the scholarship program it has established for students interested in mechanical engineering technology.

Since 2015, the Gene Haas Foundation, a division of Haas Automation, Inc., has provided grants totaling $50,000 to CCM to support the scholarship program. The Gene Haas Scholarship for Mechanical Engineering Technology provides up to $5,000 a year in support to two CCM full-time or part-time students, with preference given to female students. The scholarship coincides with CCM’s Women in STEM initiative to increase female employment in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.

This year’s grant also was given in recognition of the CCM Foundation’s 50th Anniversary “Forward” campaign, which is raising funds to provide students with the facilities that foster innovation and inspire tomorrow’s leaders, along with ongoing scholarship and faculty support.

“We are honored by the ongoing support of the Gene Haas Foundation to assist CCM students in reaching their educational goals,” said CCM President Anthony J. Iacono at a check presentation program held Thursday, October 18. Representing the Gene Haas Foundation were John Schamarek and Gostan Abdelmesih.

The presentation was held at the site where CCM plans to construct an Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Center. The $10 million 31,500-square-foot facility will serve as a state-of-the-art center to train both the current and next generation of employees to meet industry demand.

The manufacturing industry in Morris County serves multiple sectors including pharmaceuticals, metals, plastics, production, technology and scientific instrumentation, according to the Morris County Economic Development Corporation. Jobs in the field also pay well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual wages in manufacturing tend to be higher than the median for all industries. For example, the bureau reports that in 2017 industrial engineers and mechanical engineers were earning a median salary of $85,880.

With the new facility, space will be freed up in the college’s current engineering and manufacturing lab, which will allow for the construction of The Paragano Family Foundation Simulated Medical Center. Through the “Forward” Campaign, the Paragano Family Foundation provided a leadership gift to support that initiative. Along with development of that center, CCM will be expanding its healthcare programs.

Prescription Drug Take Back Day

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 19, 2018

Patrolman Remo D'Alessandro, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani and Patrolman Michael Ruggier

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department is taking back unwanted prescription drugs Saturday, October 27 between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in front of the Harmon Face Values Store, 3189 Route 46, located in the Morris Hills Shopping Center.

They cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps, ONLY PATCHES OR PILLS.
This drop off is ONLY for individual citizens. Businesses that deal with pharmaceuticals, doctors, health care providers, and pharmacies are prohibited from disposing of pharmaceuticals at the collection site under FDA guidelines.

According to the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.4 million Americans abused controlled prescription drugs. The study shows that a majority of abused prescription drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet. The DEA’s Take Back Day events provide an opportunity for Americans to prevent drug addiction and overdose deaths.

A collective total of 222,959 pounds of medication have been taken back during 15 drug take back events in NJ. That contributed to the nationwide total of 9,964,714 pounds (4,982 Tons) of medication.

Avery Harrington was among MPAC Music Students of the Month

By

Frank L. Cahill

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Oct 18, 2018

MSOM_Oct — Front Row: Avery Harrington, Catherine Herbes, Ava Capetta, Kayla Marvin, Whitney McDonnell, Emma Stark; Second Row: Saira Alam, Mollie Anger, Caitlin Chien, Cassidy Davis; Third Row: Kevin Gilroy, Casey Obaytek, Lars Olsen

MORRISTOWN — Students from Parsippany, Mendham, Pompton Plains, Boonton, Kinnelon, East Hanover, Budd Lake, Oak Ridge, Chester and Morristown were honored as Mayo Performing Arts Center’s October Music Students of the Month – Outstanding Vocalists — prior to the Wednesday, October 17 performance by The Tenors.

The students were recognized for their achievements on stage prior to the concert and had the opportunity to meet the performers.

Students were nominated by their teachers and were chosen by the Theatre’s Education Department based on their commitment to and excellence in the performing arts. The Theatre will honor a group of students every month throughout the season and invites area teachers to nominate students for this honor. Students will be invited to perform at a year-end recital in June.

The 2018-2019 Music Student of the Month program is supported by The Walter F. and Alice Gorham Foundation, Inc.

Music Students of the Month are:

Avery Harrington
Grade 8, Brooklawn Middle School; Parsippany; Nominated by Tiffany Schifano
Avery is one of the most talented vocalists that I have had the pleasure of teaching in my fifteen years in the classroom. She has told me numerous times that music is her life and her love of music comes across when she sings. In addition to being an accomplished vocalist, she plays the flute, guitar, and piano. Avery was accepted into NJ Region Choir this past year as soprano 1. She was Ariel in our school production of The Little Mermaid and gave such an inspiring performance of the iconic role. Avery is also a singer songwriter and often performs her original songs at the school talent shows. Even though Avery is immensely talented, she is a team player and is motivating and respectful towards her peers.

Saira Alam
Grade 12, West Morris Mendham High School; Mendham; Nominated by Patricia Danner
Saira Alam is one of the most unique singers I have taught at Mendham High School. She has a beautiful mezzo-soprano quality, and is particularly talented in the area of Jazz music. She is the leader of our jazz club at Mendham High School and is a great role model for her peers. She has a natural ability for improvisation, but also encourages her peers at all levels and helps them to feel comfortable trying new things. This year, Saira was asked to be a member of our top Jazz Ensemble as a vocalist. This is the first time we have had a vocalist as a permanent member of the ensemble. She also has been part of New Jersey Honors Jazz Choir for two years, and participated in Rider University’s Contemporary Vocal Camp this summer. Outside of the Jazz world, Saira has also found much success in our traditional choral programs at Mendham High School, as well as Morris Area Honor Choir, Region Choir, and All-State Choir. Saira is an outstanding music student, and a leader in all of our ensembles

Mollie Anger
Grade 7, Pequannock Valley Middle School; Pompton Plains; Nominated by Janelle Heise
Mollie goes above and beyond as a singer. She is an excellent leader in our school choir, but goes further as a member of the church choir, and as a cast member of our school musicals. She also tries out for whatever special choirs she can. She makes the time to meet with me before or after school to work on scales and her audition solos. Last year Mollie had the best audition scores for her voice part for both the Morris Area Middle School Choir and New Jersey Elementary Honor Choir. In addition to that, Mollie is friendly and an excellent student.

Ava Capetta
Grade 8, Rockaway Valley School; Boonton; Nominated by Sara Bartel
Ava has a true talent for music. She has earned solos in the Chorus concerts the past couple of years. As well as a major role in our school musicals and is a leader within the ensembles. She works hard in practices to become a better vocalist. In our small school setting, she truly shines and I sincerely hope you will consider her for this honor.

Caitlin Chien
Grade 12, Kinnelon High School; Kinnelon; Nominated by Charles Linnell
Caitlin is in her fourth year as a member of the KHS Advanced Choir, the Chamber Singers. Since her first days in high school choir, she has always set herself apart as a leader with consistently excellent choral skills. That leadership was formalized when she was elected to the choir council as a junior (which rarely occurs) and again as a senior. Caitlin was also recently appointed a co-director of the student-directed contemporary acapella ensemble at Kinnelon High School.

Cassidy Davis
Grade 8, John Hill School; Boonton; Nominated by Yvonne Manca
Cassidy has been part of the school choir for a few years. She has auditioned for solos and has received numerous solos throughout her years at John Hill. Cassidy loves to sing and it is evident to those around her. She has also sung in Gateway to the Arts and has been an asset to the group. She never misses practices and always comes to sing with a smile on her face.

Isabella Firooznia
Grade 8, Ridgedale Middle School; Boonton; Nominated by Sondra Paulson
In addition to being a consistent and talented member of both the Ridgedale Middle School Chorus and Select Choir, Isabella has a fantastic attitude towards her peers and teachers. Isabella had been taking piano lessons for 4 years, and has been taking voice lessons for over a year now. She has always been interested in performing, and loves being on stage, singing and acting. She has twice taken acting and improv lessons at the Papermill Playhouse, as well as acting classes at the Mayo Performing Arts Center this past summer. She is also a member of the RMS chorus and select choir. While she was at Brooklake, Isabella took part in the productions of “The Little Mermaid” (she was one of Ariel’s sisters), “Peter Pan” (Indian Princess), and “The Wizard of Oz” (Wicked Witch). She has participated in all of the productions at Ridgedale, her most recent role being Sebastian in “The Little Mermaid”. She is currently rehearsing for the drama, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”, and was cast as Snow White. Isabella also took part in a voice competition at the Calderone School of Music where she placed second.

Kevin Gilroy
Grade 11, Hanover Park High School; East Hanover; Nominated by Helen Ferrante de Britez
Kevin has sung Baritone in my choirs for three years, but has recently decided to pursue a career as a Countertenor. This summer he started immersing himself in Mezzo Soprano arias (pants roles) in addition to his impeccable work as a baritone. He is a three-year member of the Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, Atlantic City Crew (a super-select pop a cappella group), and Men’s Choir. He is also a two-year cast member in our Spring Musicals. He is an accomplished dancer as well. He currently serves as Choir Secretary and Baritone Section Leader, but will actually sing Alto in one of our groups this year. This is an incredibly brave endeavor by a wonderfully gifted musician.

Catherine Herbes
Grade 8, Mendham Township Middle School; Mendham; Nominated by Ronald Bergamotto
Catherine has worked hard and devoted her talents at Mendham Township Middle School since the 5th grade. While at MTMS she has been active in chorus, string orchestra and composer’s club. Catherine has participated in over a dozen musicals in both principal role and cast member at Mendham as well as local community. Each and every year at Mendham Township Middle School, Catherine was awarded solos in both the winter and spring concerts. Her performance on and off the state has been exemplary. It has been an honor and pleasure to work with a student of this caliber.

Kayla Marvin
Grade 8, Mt Olive Middle School; Budd Lake; Nominated by Joanna Scarangello
Kayla is the most passionate, conscientious student that I have ever taught. She has reached high levels of achievement in her singing, being accepted in to County, Region, All State and All Eastern Honor Choirs in the last two years of her middle school singing career. Kayla’s enthusiasm is contagious as she pushes her fellow classmates to achieve higher every day in choir class. She recently auditioned for the ACDA National Honor Choir and continues to push herself to new challenges and heights. Kayla is a strong leader, supportive classmate, and possesses a beautiful gift in her singing voice.

Whitney McDonnell
Grade 11, Morristown Beard School; Morristown; Nominated by Ben Krauss
Whitney is an exemplary member of the choral program at Morristown-Beard School. She is a strong member of our Soprano section who not only sings beautifully, but is also an excellent musician. The kindness she shows outside of the classroom is evident inside as well, as she is always willing to help out her less experienced section mates with their music. Whitney is active in every aspect of singing life at our school, be it our curricular chorus, our student-run acapella group, or our musical theatre program.

Casey Obaytek
Grade 12, Jefferson Township High School; Oak Ridge; Nominated by Chad Flynn
Casey has a great Tenor singing voice and a wonderful personality for singing. He is always smiling and has a great attitude about how he leads himself during rehearsals. Case leads by example during class and during after-school rehearsals. He is President of the Chamber Choir and a member of the Madrigal Singers, Chamber Choir, and Men’s Ensemble. In addition to vocal ensembles, Casey was a lead role in last year’s musical and this year’s fall drama.

Lars Olsen
Grade 11, West Morris Central School; Chester; Nominated by Mark Stingle

Lars Olsen has been a stalwart in the West Morris Central choral program for the past 2 years and will continue to be so for the next two years. Besides his obvious skill, Lars has been involved in many honors groups at all levels – Morris Area Honors Choir (2), Region 1 Honors Choir (2), All-State Choir (2), where is currently the 9th ranked Tenor 2 this year in NJ. He has also been involved in acapella and SATB choirs every year since being at WMC. As an actor, Lars was voted best Actor in a drama last year for the FOXY Awards and he has been a featured role as Donnal in West Morris Central’s production of The Pirate Queen in 2018. Besides all of the accolades, Lars is a brilliant young musician with a passion to perform at every turn

Emma Stark
Grade 8, Black River Middle School; Chester; Nominated by Kathleen Vespignani
Emma has been a member of the chorus at Black River for three years, as well as a member of our Select Chorus since the sixth grade. As this is her third year in both vocal ensembles, I have seen Emma blossom into a magnificent musician and performer. Emma is also often a soloist and is a part of the Drama Club’s musicals each year. She comes to rehearsals and performances with the utmost professionalism, enthusiasm, and respect for the art. Emma continues her musical endeavors outside of school, as well. She takes both voice and guitar lessons and performs at community venues, including coffee houses and the 4-H Fair. Emma truly exemplifies what a great musician is!

Mayo Performing Arts Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey. The 2018-2019 season is made possible, in part, by a grant the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as support received from the F.M. Kirby Foundation and numerous corporations, foundations and individuals. The Mayo Performing Arts Center has been designated a Major Presenting Organization by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Mayo Performing Arts Center was named 2016 Outstanding Historic Theatre by the League of Historic American Theatres, and is ranked in the top 50 mid-sized performing arts centers by Pollstar Magazine.

Mayo Performing Arts Center is located at 100 South Street, Morristown. Box office (973) 539-8008. For more information click here.