MORRIS COUNTY — Bayada Nurses presented Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco with its Champion Award last week for his support of in-home nurses and the patients who rely on them.
Bucco was honored for his work to raise reimbursement rates for personal care assistants and private duty nurses, and supporting a recently signed law providing parking placards that ease access for home health-care providers.
Professionals and advocates praised Bucco’s dedication and hard work at the organization’s annual awards ceremony at the Hilton Garden Inn in Hamilton Township on Thursday, October 25.
“When someone like Tony Bucco changes our lives the way he does, and puts his life and family aside as a public servant, it is not always going to be easy to put our lives aside to help other people and to honor them,” said Christina Cerza, a home-care advocate and mother of a patient. “That’s why I’m here today. This man made a huge impact on our lives and he needs to know that.”
In December 2016, Bucco visited Cerza and her daughter Carly Zukowsky in their home in Bernardsville with Christine Rios, the director of the Bayada pediatrics office in Morris Plains. The 17-year-old Zukowsky was diagnosed with a recessive genetic disorder after her umbilical cord wrapped around her neck during birth. She receives full-time nursing care and is a sophomore at Bernards High School.
When the family needed additional nursing hours, Bucco negotiated with their insurance company to get more nursing coverage for Zukowsky.
“You are not just an assemblyman by title, you are walking the talk, and you are making it happen, and we are so grateful for you,” Cerza told Bucco.“He is always available and listens to the concerns of home health care and what we go through as providers and as clients,” said Marlana Follett, a pediatrics director for the northern New Jersey area, while introducing Bucco. “He has attended several family meetings and roundtables with our employees.”
“I can tell you that my life changed the day I walked into the home and met Christina and Carly,” Bucco explained. “Every once in a while I get a photo of Carly going to the prom or out at school and those are the days you say to yourself: ‘I’ve got to keep doing this.’”
PARSIPPANY — The anti-Semitic massacre at a Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania synagogue Saturday that claimed 11 lives. Nine sick children dying from infection at a Passaic County health facility. A blaze in Dover that left 80 people homeless and destroyed six businesses. Back-to-back hurricanes that decimated communities in the Southeast. Mail bombs.
The onslaught of bad news is not only causing angst in adults, it’s affecting children — even young ones. That feeling of helplessness can be magnified in children, but parents have the power to help reduce the impact of trauma their kids are exposed to or actually experience.
“Children on the whole are resilient when they feel loved and cared for,” said Mary Vineis, NewBridge Services Director of Community Response and Education and coordinator of the Morris County Traumatic Loss Coalition. “One of the most important things parents can do is to assure their children that they will keep them safe.”
Parents should process an event before speaking to their children about it so they can role-model coping skills, Vineis said. “If you tell your child ‘everything is OK’ but your behavior expresses fear and powerlessness, your child will pick up on that,” she said.
Keep it Simple
It’s best to start a conversation by asking a child what he’s heard. (Hopefully the parent will be the first to inform her child.) “Encourage them to ask questions, listen for their fears and concerns, and gently correct any misinformation they have,” Vineis said. Keep the explanation simple, especially for little children. More specifics can be provided to older children, but it will take them time to process the information, and may lead to follow-up questions.
Limit Media Exposure
NewBridge Chief Operating Officer Michelle Borden, a licensed clinical social worker, urged parents to limit their children’s media exposure; television news often shows graphic images repeatedly, which can be very disturbing. Borden suggested parents screen news accounts first, whether they’re on television, in print or online. “That gives you more control about what your child is exposed to,” Vineis said.
“Let your children know that it is normal to feel upset about what happened,” Borden said. Parents should also express empathy for the people affected and talk about the heroes, including first-responders, who helped save lives.
Take Action
Parents should reassure their children that they are safe and the risk of such events happening to the family is very low, Borden said. Many families find solace in taking action such as donating money to a cause or volunteering, or participating in a community vigil.
Be Patient
Expect that children may very well show signs of stress. They may be irritable, have trouble sleeping, and change their eating habits, but those reactions should subside within two or three weeks. “Give your children extra patience, care and love,” she said.
If those behaviors don’t subside or if they appear weeks after the event, parents should seek professional help. Call NewBridge at (973) 366-9333 or click here.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides an age-by-age guide for parents and other caregivers on how to talk with children in the wake of a traumatic event. Click here.
. Here are some tips:
Preschool children, through age 5:
Give these very young children a lot of cuddling and verbal support:
Take a deep breath before holding or picking them up, and focus on them, not the trauma.
Get down to their eye level and speak in a calm, gentle voice using words they can understand.
Tell them that you still care for them and will continue to take care of them so they feel safe.
Children ages 6 to 19:
Nurture children and youth in this age group:
Ask your child or the children in your care what worries them and what might help them cope.
Offer comfort with gentle words, a hug when appropriate, or just your presence.
Spend more time with the children than usual, even for a short while. Returning to school activities and getting back to routines at home is important too.
Excuse traumatized children from chores for a day or two. After that, make sure they have age-appropriate tasks and can participate in a way that makes them feel useful.
Support children spending time with friends or having quiet time to write or create art.
Encourage children to participate in recreational activities so they can move around and play with others.
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network provides tips on how to talk to children about hate crimes and anti-Semitism.
PARSIPPANY — Littleton School K-Kids decorated pumpkins and placed them around the outside of the school to dress up the area for Halloween and Thanksgiving.
There are 41 students that are members of the Littleton School K-Kids.
Littleton School K-Kids decorated pumpkinsLittleton School K-Kids decorated pumpkins
K-Kids’ mission is to teach children leadership through service. Planning and taking part in service projects is a great way for club members to gain leadership skills and make a difference in the community. There are service needs all around your community and even in local schools or organizations. Some of the programs K-Kids’ perform are Hands-on service: Members roll up their sleeves and provide direct service within the community; Fundraising and philanthropy: Members raise money for an organization or cause and Awareness-building: Members make others aware of an issue and encourage them to take action.
PARSIPPANY — The Friends of the Parsippany Library will be holding their bag sale starting this Thursday, November 1. The sale will run through Sunday, November 11 at the Parsippany Main Library, 449 Halsey Road.
Shoppers will be able to fill a bag (provided) with books for just $7.00. There will be a wide assortment of popular fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, DVDs, CDs, and more available. Supplies will be restocked throughout the sale period so shoppers are also encouraged to check back for more great finds.
Members of the Friends of the Parsippany Library are invited to the Members Only Preview Night on Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Memberships can be purchased in advanced by clicking here or purchased at the door.
The sale then will open to the general public starting on Friday and will run during the library’s normal hours.
This year, the Friends are also supporting the town’s efforts to move away from plastic bags by offering shoppers the option of purchasing a reusable tote bag from Boon Supply (another Friends fundraiser) and receiving a special deal to fill the tote with sale items. There will also be a table with more valuable or collectible books that will be of interest to collectors and book dealers.
All proceeds from the sale will be donated back to the library for the purchase of materials and programs to benefit our community. To learn more about how you can contribute to the growth of Parsippany’s libraries and community, visit the Friends of the Parsippany Library website by clicking here.
TRENTON — Governor Phil Murphy announced the launch of Get Covered New Jersey, a state public awareness campaign to promote the Affordable Care Act’s 2019 open enrollment period, which runs from November 1 through December 15.
Get Covered New Jersey is the first coordinated health coverage public awareness campaign conducted by the State of New Jersey since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The program will promote health coverage options available to residents through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace and off the Marketplace in the individual insurance market during Open Enrollment, as well as through the state’s NJFamilyCare program year-round.
“From day one, my administration committed to protecting the Affordable Care Act in New Jersey against President Trump’s efforts to tear it down. We are proving the ACA works but we cannot let up,” said Governor Murphy. “We know it will take every effort to combat the barrage of attacks that continue from the federal government to make sure residents get the coverage they deserve. We want to ensure residents don’t miss the six-week window to enroll, that they get the financial assistance they are due, and that they know where to go to if they need help along the way. New Jerseyans are counting on us to do what the federal government won’t.”
On January 21, 2018, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order Number 4, directing that all State entities that regularly interact with the public undertake reasonable measures to provide information to the public regarding the Affordable Care Act marketplace and ways to enroll. The Get Covered New Jersey public awareness campaign is an extension of this effort.
The Get Covered New Jersey campaign, which will be led by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, builds on the policy actions taken by the state to defend the ACA and ensure that residents have access to health coverage and care. The Governor signed a law to continue a shared responsibility payment in the state, after its repeal at the federal level. The state law takes effect January 1, 2019, and requires residents to have health coverage or pay a penalty, called a Shared Responsibility Payment, unless they qualify for an exemption. The governor also signed a law to create a state reinsurance program. Combined, the two laws resulted in an average overall 9.3 percent reduction in rates in the individual market for 2019.
As part of the public awareness campaign, the state is launching a website, GetCovered.NJ.gov, which will serve as a portal for individuals seeking health coverage. The site will include information about plan options, as well as contact information for navigators and enrollment assisters who can help residents access coverage.
Departments and agencies that regularly interact with the public will also disseminate materials and educate residents on health coverage options and the availability of financial assistance. Materials useful to community organizations, public and nonprofit agencies and grassroots organizations in enrollment outreach will also be available on the Get Covered New Jersey website, which will be promoted by all state agencies and departments.
“The Trump Administration has worked to destabilize the insurance market and to eliminate the resources that existed to connect residents to coverage. Increasingly, it is up to states to lead in ensuring the protections provided by the Affordable Care Act are maintained and that residents have access to care,” said Department of Banking and Insurance Commissioner Marlene Caride. “The Get Covered New Jersey campaign is a coordinated state effort to promote awareness of the options available so that residents can educate themselves, get available financial assistance, and choose the plan that works best for them.”
President Trump’s administration cut the open enrollment period in half, from three months in 2016 to six weeks in 2017 and 2018. It cut the advertising budget for the Affordable Care Act enrollment period by 90 percent, from $100 million in 2016 to $10 million in 2017 and in 2018 and has cut funding for navigators by 79 percent since 2016, resulting in New Jersey receiving over $1.5 million less to conduct outreach for 2018.
As part of the state’s work, the New Jersey Department of Human Services is also bolstering its continuous efforts to enroll people in NJ FamilyCare, including the Medicaid expansion created by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), by providing $375,000 in funding and support to five community organizations that served as ACA navigators. DHS has awarded each organization $75,000 to support enrollment efforts and DHS is providing the outreach materials. The Department of Human Services is providing training, materials and technical assistance to the organizations, which will provide application assistance and organize outreach events.
“New Jerseyans should have as much opportunity as possible to learn about affordable health coverage options and how coverage can benefit their families,” Human Services Commissioner Carole Johnson said. “This initiative will ensure that we reach out to as many people as we can and get them signed up for health coverage. A healthy New Jersey means a better New Jersey for everyone.”
The organizations being funded are the Center for Family Services, of Camden; The Family Resource Network, of Hamilton (Mercer County); The Oranges ACA Navigator Project, of Orange; Fulfill Monmouth & Ocean, of Neptune and Toms River; and the Urban League of Hudson County, of Jersey City.
“As a doctor, I have seen first-hand the difference health coverage can make in determining people’s health outcomes,” Department of Health Commissioner Shereef Elnahal said.“Governor Murphy’s commitment to increasing the number of people with health insurance will certainly result in a stronger and healthier New Jersey, and the Department of Health is committed to doing everything it can to educate people about the need to be insured.”
“The success of this campaign will ensure that New Jersey’s health insurance market remains stable, prices remain affordable and, most importantly, individuals have the health coverage they need,” said State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio. “We encourage everyone to make sure they have the minimum level of coverage required by law. This will help ensure that we have a healthier New Jersey and that no one incurs the legally mandated Shared Responsibility Payment when it comes time to file their 2019 taxes.”
“I’ve fought tooth and nail over the last two years to protect the Affordable Care Act from Donald Trump and his Republican allies in Congress who have made repealing our health care their top priority,” said Sen. Bob Menendez. “The last thing I’m going to do is allow them to strip away all the things we fought so hard for and won – like protections for pre-existing conditions, or making sure women don’t pay more just because they’re women. ‘Get Covered New Jersey’ is about empowering patients and families and doing what Republicans in Congress and President Trump refuse to do — stand up for the right of every New Jerseyan and every American to quality, affordable health care coverage.”
US Senator Cory Booker
“We are in a moral moment when it comes to protecting health coverage and the rights of New Jerseyans and all Americans, including those with with pre-existing conditions, to get the affordable, quality care they deserve,” said Sen. Cory Booker. “Time and time again we have seen Republicans in Congress and President Trump attempt to sabotage our health care system, so we must double down on our efforts to protect the nearly 3.8 million New Jerseyans with pre-existing conditions. I applaud the continued efforts of Governor Murphy and his administration that have already yielded results in educating New Jerseyans on their health coverage options, ways to access to financial assistance, and how to get enrolled in a plan that works best for them and their family.”
“Despite numerous attempts by the Trump administration to sabotage the Affordable Care Act, the law continues to provide quality coverage to millions of Americans at an affordable cost,” said Rep. Frank Pallone. “Governor Murphy’s actions have successfully lowered rates for the health insurance market in New Jersey and we need to do everything possible over the next six weeks to make sure that working families have the opportunity and awareness to get covered. I will continue to work in Congress to prevent the Trump administration from sabotaging the ACA and the open enrollment period.”
“I am proud to represent a state that is aggressively defending access to healthcare,” said Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. “Despite the Trump administration’s attempts to destroy our nation’s health law and virtually eliminate coverage assistance, I am encouraged by efforts at the state level to uphold the great strides made under the Affordable Care Act. I urge all New Jerseyans to #GetCovered during this open enrollment season! Make use of the state’s newly available resources, and do not hesitate to reach out to my office if you need additional help.”
“Now is the time to make sure you’re enrolled in a health plan that works for you and your family,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “Even though President Trump and Republicans are still trying to strip away health coverage and explode premiums for people with pre-existing conditions, there are still plenty of affordable options and financial help available right now in the marketplace. I’m committed to working with my colleagues to make improvements that will help hardworking families – but, in the meantime, I encourage everyone to make sure you have health coverage during this open enrollment period.”
“A single accident or sudden illness without health insurance coverage could mean financial devastation. That’s one reason the ACA’s transformational progress in reducing the number of uninsured Americans is so important” said Rep. Bonnie Watson-Coleman. “The ACA is still the law of the land, and you can still get financial assistance to obtain insurance. Open enrollment begins November 1st, and New Jersey residents will have the opportunity to enroll in a plan, or change the plan they already have. I urge everyone who needs insurance to take advantage of this opportunity to get covered.”
“For five years, New Jersey’s administration has been absent from efforts to enroll state residents in the affordable and quality health care programs the ACA has to offer,” said Maura Collinsgru, New Jersey Citizen Action Health Care Program Director. “We’re very grateful that Governor Murphy and his administration are putting their full weight behind outreach to ensure that every New Jerseyan has the opportunity to access the health care coverage they need.”
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Kiwanis Key Club hosted “Halloween at the High” on Monday, October 30.
Students from the Key Club were dressed for Halloween and supervised the games, face painting, haunted house, or just handed out candy to the children. Children lined up to visit the Haunted House (PG13) which was the major hit attraction of the evening. The PG-13 Haunted House was created by Key Club member Jacob Meth who is the artistic director.
All of the games, decorations and candy were purchased by members of the Key Club.
Michael DiBernard, Karaline Dibernard and Cameron DiBernard enjoying Halloween at the High
Buffalo Wild Wings Joanne Veloz and Nick Van Orden handing out candy and free wing couponsKey Club members Celina Huynh and Abhila Sha SaurvaKey Club member Irene Mariyum with PHS students Vora Kosch and Bailey GrandaJoe Salgado and Kiara Salgado searching for the candy at Halloween at the HighSana Majid, Nimeesha Hug and Thanui NimmalaTyler Wyka and Olivia JohnsonFraidoon Pouruaghasb, Nirbhav Talloju and Derek KaiserJulian Goodwyn
PARSIPPANY — During the month of November, the members of Parsippany PBA Local #131 will be participating in “No Shave November”. Each officer who wishes to grow a beard during November will be donating to “Zero-The End of Prostate Cancer.”
If anyone would like to donate to their team click here. If you have any questions please contact them directly at ParsippanyPBA@gmail.com.
Join our team! Your participation will help raise awareness and your donation will help fund research, patient programs that go directly to helping men and their families, free testing, and educational programs.
One in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, including more than 164,000 throughout the U.S. this year alone.
PARSIPPANY — Assemblyman Jay Webber expressed today his support for expanding funding and easing restrictions on grants given to nonprofits that are at a high-risk of hate crimes or terrorist attacks, such as synagogues, churches, mosques, and community centers.
“A primary responsibility of government is protecting its citizens,” stated Webber (R-Morris). “In the wake of the horrific anti-Semitic hate crime in Pittsburgh and because of the disturbing increase in anti-Semitic acts of violence in America that responsibility is becoming a more urgent priority every day.”
In 2017, anti-Semitic crimes rose by 32 percent in New Jersey according to the Anti-Defamation League.
The Assembly will vote today on a bill that would increase security grants for nonprofits to $50,000, which can be used to purchase target-hardening equipment such as bullet proof windows and doors. The grants, which Assemblyman Webber supported last year, are currently capped at $10,000 and can only be used for personnel.
PARSIPPANY — Introducing Oink! This piggy pile of goodness is absolutely amazing!
Oink is five years old, great with other dogs, and can live with children six and up. He knows “sit” and LOVES to get pets!
Oink is a chill guy that loves doing whatever his human wants to do (especially snuggles!). He is a truly special, gentle dog and his compact size and big smile make him perfect!
Oink chases his toys if you throw them but would much rather hang out with you instead. He also loves to eat! He may snort a little bit here and there just like a pig but his manners are those of a true gentleman.
If you’re looking for a calm, happy, sweet dog, adopt Oink!
If you are interested in adopting Oink, please fill out an application by clicking here.
Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Instagram by clicking here.
Like Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.
Oink is a chill guy that loves doing whatever his human wants to do
In less than ten days, we will be going to the polls to decide who we want to represent us in Congress; a candidate who just recently moved into our community, or a public servant who has served us in the State Legislature and as a small business owner who’s created jobs.
I have known Assemblyman Jay Webber, the Republican candidate for Congress here in the 11th Congressional District, for years. I know Webber has always voted for policies that benefit our interests. Whether it was opposing the 23-cent per gallon gas tax hike or sponsoring legislation to reduce taxes, Jay has always put taxpayers first. He has also supported federal tax reform that has lowered tax rates on families and businesses right here in New Jersey and across the nation. By contrast, Democrat Mikie Sherrill has opposed tax relief and would be a vote to increase our taxes to feed a federal bureaucracy that has become excessively large and inefficient.
As a veteran of the United States Army, I took an oath to uphold the Constitution and everything it stands for. I know that Assemblyman Webber will take his oath of office seriously, as he’s already done in the State Legislature. The oath to defend the United States Constitution is a pledge to uphold every amendment. Naturally, I was concerned when I heard Ms. Sherrill speak about her openness to undermining the second amendment rights of law-abiding citizens during one of the debates in this campaign. Let me be clear: I thank Mikie Sherrill for her years of service to our nation in uniform. But on the second amendment, her views are out of touch with millions of Americans, including people here in the 11th Congressional District.
Lastly, I trust Jay Webber to take on cronyism and corruption in Washington D.C. because he’s never been afraid to stand up to leaders in either party when he felt it was right. Mikie Sherrill, by contrast, refuses to denounce Senator Bob Menendez, who was admonished by Republicans and Democrats for violating U.S. Senate ethics rules. Equally troubling is when a surrogate for Ms. Sherrill alluded to Assemblyman Webber’s minor children while attempting to smear him earlier this summer. Since when is it okay to bring a candidate’s family into the political fray?
I believe that Mikie Sherrill only moved to our district to run for Congress. If she truly cared about the state of affairs in America, she could have sought the support of her neighbors in a bid for Congress in her own district. It was her hope that no one would notice that she moved into our district since Democrats needed a candidate to run here. Well, voters, I did notice, and I am disappointed in her efforts to mislead us all on issues ranging from federal tax reform to Jay Webber’s record in Trenton. On Tuesday, November 6, I urge you and everyone you know to join me in supporting Jay Webber for Congress. He’s represented New Jersey’s 26th Legislative District well in Trenton, and I know he has the leadership skills and character to be a great Congressman.
PARSIPPANY — The Assembly voted on Monday, October 29 to create a three-year pilot program in Passaic County allowing experienced barbers and hairstylists to work while waiting for a New Jersey license. Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce sponsors the legislation.
“Preventing experienced professionals from earning a living seems unreasonable,” said DeCroce (R-Morris). “At the same time, we have to make certain those coming in meet state standards. This pilot program will show us if we should implement such a law statewide.”
The bill (A3443) is in response to concerns expressed by Passaic Mayor Hector Lora who said local immigrant barbers are not allowed to work while waiting for a state license, according to a NorthJersey.com article.
Experienced, licensed barbers and hairstylists licensed in another state or another country must apply for a license from the New Jersey Board of Cosmetology and pay a $100 application fee and a $39 written exam fee. Board approval can take up to six months. If the licensing standards of the home state or country do not meet state standards, an experienced barber may have to take courses that can cost $12,000.
The state Board of Cosmetology and Hairstyling will evaluate the program and make recommendations to the governor and Legislature.
PARSIPPANY — Patrol Officer J. Michel responded to the Holiday Inn, 707 Route 46 at 9:58 a.m. on Friday, October 19 for a reported theft.
Upon arrival he spoke to the female complainant who stated approximately $190.00 worth of jewelry was stolen from her hotel room while she was gone.
This incident remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Police Department Investigative Division at (973) 263-4311.
RANDOLPH — A newly launched Bridges-to-Baccalaureate program at County College of Morris (CCM) is providing underrepresented students with extensive support, guidance and research opportunities to assist them in transferring to a four-year institution to earn a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field.
The Northern New Jersey Bridges-to-Baccalaureate (NNJ-B2B) is a partnership of public, associate-degree granting institutions that provides community college students with the opportunity to conduct research at a four-year institution and support services and a mentor to guide them in the application and transfer process to earn their bachelor’s degree in a STEM field.
The program is open to both entering first-year and continuing CCM students interested in STEM careers. Applications are currently being accepted for the 2019 Spring Semester.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, wages for all STEM occupations are nearly double the national average wage for non-STEM jobs. Between 2005 and 2015, STEM employment grew by 24.4 percent, five times more than non-STEM jobs, and the demand is expected to continue to grow in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.
NNJ-B2B is operated in partnership with the Garden State Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation, a highly successful National Science Foundation (NSF) funded project headed by Rutgers University-Newark to streamline the transition from two- to four-year institutions.
Along with CCM, the community colleges participating in NNJ-B2B are Hudson County Community College, Passaic County Community College, as the lead institution, and Union County Community College.
CCM is receiving $317,556 over three years in NSF grant funding as a NNJ-B2B participant to support students in their quest for a STEM bachelor’s degree. Dr. Teresa Birrer, professor of biology, is serving as CCM’s site coordinator for the program. To learn more and to apply click here.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — The Lakeland Hills YMCA is holding “A Night of Conversation” on Monday, November 19 at 6:00 p.m.
The open discussion is presented by NJ DEA Agent Timothy McMahon. Introduction by Assemblyman Anthony Bucco, Guest speaker will be Eileen Wallin, who experienced the loss of her son last year from a heroin overdose; resources offered by Saint Clare’s Behavioral Health.
You hear about it, you read about it, but do you know that it is everywhere? Heroin, prescription and substance abuse is happening in your backyard. It’s in your schools, it’s in your town, and it might even be in your home.
A Night of Conversation is meant to inform you of the dangers of drug abuse and how to talk with your children (or your parents) about it.
Someone you know or even love may have already experienced drug abuse. It takes just ONE pill or one dose to begin the addiction. How did we get here? How do we stop it? How do we prevent it? Those questions and more will be discussed at this presentation. Joining us is Eileen Wallin, who experienced the loss of her son last year from a heroin overdose. Hear her story to understand the epidemic is closer to home than you might think. Light refreshments will be served.
Click here to register. This is a free community program and is open to all. For additional information email Rosemary Linder Day at Rosemaryl@Lhymca.com or call (973) 334-2820.
NEW JERSEY — The Senate Judiciary Committee has passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senators Joe Pennacchio and Shirley Turner to create a commission that would develop reforms and aid those who have been wrongfully convicted in New Jersey. At the October 29 hearing, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Nick Scutari announced that he has agreed to co-sponsor the bill.
Senators Pennacchio and Turner introduced S-406 more than a year ago, following reports of wrongful conviction cases in New Jersey.
Following Senator Pennacchio’s October 2017 press conference calling for action on the bill, Attorney General Grewal announced a similar effort. Pennacchio noted that there is still a need for legislation.
“We cannot permanently address the crisis of wrongful conviction in New Jersey without codifying an innocence commission into law. If the Legislature doesn’t act, the next administration could easily discontinue Attorney General Grewal’s noble work,” Senator Pennacchio (R-26) said. “We have heard from a number of exonerees, like AJ Nash, who told us that if this pathway to justice had existed, he would not have spent years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit.
“Rodney Roberts languished in prison for 17 years. AJ Nash was there for 10. This is a travesty of the highest magnitude. Policy changes like bail reform are meaningless, if we aren’t solving the systemic issues that allow innocent people to stay locked up,” Pennacchio added. “Our search for justice should know no bounds.”
Rodney Roberts was one of the exonerees who came to the Oct. 29th Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing to show his support for S-406. Roberts was exonerated by DNA evidence in 2014, after spending nearly two decades in prison.
“Being forced to plead guilty, knowing you’re innocent, is one of the worst things that could happen to an innocent person,” exoneree Rodney Roberts said. “But it happens more than you think. Then to find out later that, despite being exonerated, your guilty plea will keep you from getting compensation, is like being punished a second time for a crime you didn’t commit.”
“A wrongful conviction can steal years from an innocent person’s life, nothing can return the time lost with loved ones or family milestones missed,” Senator Turner (D-15) said. “Time in prison not only impacts an individual’s personal life, but also their potential lifetime earnings and financial security for themselves and their families.
Nationwide, more than 2,000 wrongfully convicted persons have been exonerated since 1989, according to the National Registry on Exonerations. However, the Registry estimates that there are tens of thousands of false convictions annually, with many more piling up over time.
About Pennacchio/Turner’s S-406: “The New Jersey Innocence Study and Review Commission”
The “New Jersey Innocence Study and Review Commission,” as established by S-406, would review all aspects of criminal cases involving wrongful conviction in New Jersey and recommend reforms to reduce the likelihood of wrongful conviction occurring in the future.
Under S-406, the commission must consider a specific recommendation for establishing a permanent panel before which a person who believes they have been the victim of a wrongful conviction could request a review of their own conviction, including those that are currently incarcerated.
The commission’s responsibilities would also include:
Identifying the main causes of wrongful conviction and studying existing research on these causes;
Recommending best practices to appropriate constituencies
Examining the existing system of restitution to compensate wrongfully convicted persons
Studying successful programs that assist with reintegration back into society following release
S-406 has received the support of a number of advocates, including Lesley Risinger, the founder and director of The Last Resort Exoneration Project at Seton Hall Law School, which provides pro-bono legal and investigative services to wrongfully convicted people in New Jersey. Risinger was present at the committee hearing to support the bill.
“Conviction of the innocent is an abject failure of any criminal justice system,” Risinger said. “Creating the New Jersey Innocence Study and Review Commission would be an important step in addressing this problem. We believe in a collaborative approach that should take into account the views of all who have participated in the exoneration of the innocent in New Jersey, as well as the views and experiences of the exonerated innocent themselves. If this bill passes, we will of course stand ready to assist the commission as they move forward to study the ways in which our criminal justice system fails the innocent, both before and after conviction, and we look forward to providing our insights on measures to alleviate this problem.”
Safeer Z. Quraishi, administrative director of the NAACP New Jersey State Conference, was also present at the committee hearing to support S-406.
“The New Jersey State Conference of the NAACP is in full support of Senate Bill 406 which looks to create the New Jersey Innocence Study and Review Commission,” Quraishi said. “It is obvious that nobody should feel the devastating effects of incarceration if they did not commit the crime. We are looking forward to seeing the recommendations made by the Commission to reduce wrongful incarceration in New Jersey.”
“This legislation will help us identify how to prevent wrongful convictions and create a pathway for addressing them as soon as possible when they are believed to have happened,” Senator Turner added. “We must do everything in our power to ensure those who have been wrongfully convicted are given justice, restorations, and a pathway to successful reentry.”
“I am grateful to the exoneeres, the advocates, and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for supporting our legislation,” Senator Pennacchio added. “I hope our bill will continue to advance quickly. If this isn’t an example of a time-sensitive piece of legislation, I don’t know what is. Let’s get this done now.”
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation hosted its 22nd Annual “Wine Tasting” benefitting Camp Nejeda, serving children with Type 1 Diabetes since 1958, and other charitable projects on Thursday, October 25 at the Hanover Manor, 16 Eagle Rock Avenue, East Hanover. Wine Tasting Chairman Michael Mulhaul said “We raised over $325,000 in the past twenty one years, in which Kiwanis Club was able to donate to other non-profit organizations, including Camp Nejeda, New Jersey Sharing Network, Lake Drive Program – Mountain Lakes School District, Morristown Memorial Hospital, Eliminate and Autism.
Cost for the fun-filled event was only $65.00 per person and included a Dinner Buffet, Hors d’oeuvres, Fine Wines, Craft Beers, Single Malts, Select Spirits, Silent Auction, Live Auction, 50/50 and much more.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany 22nd Annual Wine Tasting
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Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Karen DeChristopher and Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Past President Frank Cahill
Camp Nejeda has been in continuous operation since 1958 and at our present location since 1960. They are funded by the Camp Nejeda Foundation, Inc, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Camp Nejeda is located at 910 Saddleback Road, Stillwater, New Jersey.
At Camp Nejeda youth with diabetes are given the opportunity to live, if only for one or two weeks, in a world where having diabetes is the norm and where there is no need to explain blood sugar testing, finger pricks, insulin injections, ketones, ‘lows’ (insulin reactions), boluses or ‘carb’ counting because everyone here already understands.
Camp Nejeda is fully licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health and accredited by the American Camp Association. ACA accredited camps meet up to 300 standards for health, food service, safety, and program quality.
The Camp Nejeda Foundation subsidizes the cost of camp for all our campers and provides additional financial assistance to approximately 30% of our campers each year. Campership awards range from 20% to 100% support. Most awards are for 100%.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets at the Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46, each Thursday at 7:15 a.m. for breakfast.
For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — The Annual Networking Night was held on Tuesday, October 23 at Lakeland Hills YMCA.
The event was sponsored by Titan Energy, Saint Clare’s Health and the Lakeland Hills YMCA.
Local business owners and chamber members experienced business networking at night with the focus on non-profit organizations you need to connect with to make a difference in today’s world.
For more information on Lakeland Hills YMCA click here.
Non profit organizations included Saint Clare’s Health, Mental Health Association Morris and Essex, CARES (a program of Morris County Prevention is Key), Homeless Solutions, Saint Clare’s Behavioral Health and Lakeland Hills YMCA.
Community Relations Director Rosemary LinderVik Joganow, Lakeland Hills YMCALakeland Hills Family YMCAWendy Long, Saint Clare’s HealthAl Shurdom, Mental Health Association Morris & Essex
Christina Wolfe Content, Homeless SolutionsRandy Smith, Lakeland Hills Family YMCASaint Clare’s HealthMelody Runyon, CARESAl Shurdom, Mental Health Association Morris & EssexChristina Wolfe Content, Homeless Solutions
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC) held another successful “Lunch Dozen Networking Series” networking event on Wednesday, October 24.
This month’s speaker was Brian Ricci, Deputy OEM Coordinator and Fire Inspector with Parsippany’s Division of Fire Prevention. Brian is also a volunteer member of Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department District 5.
Brian discussed proper uses of fire extinguishers, as well as carbon monoxide poisoning and talked about numerous do’s and don’t regarding commercial businesses.
“October is Fire Prevention Month” said Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill, “and we felt it was an appropriate time to hold a networking event with Brian.”
“When it comes to fire protection for commercial buildings, mistakes are never an option. If an error is made in fire protection, serious and irreversible damage can occur to the building itself and the contents within. Building occupants can also be placed in harm’s way should a flaw in fire protection occur. In order to keep your commercial building safe, consider the following dos and don’ts within fire protection,” said Brian Ricci.
The Parsippany Division of Fire Prevention is tasked with enforcing the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code in all commercial properties located within the Township of Parsippany. In addition, the Division is responsible for issuing appropriate permits, certificates for home sales and/or rentals, planning for events, assisting with emergency response, and public education in conjunction with the township’s six Fire Districts, three EMS agencies, Police, and many other stakeholders. In order to accomplish these tasks, the Division is staffed by one full time Fire Official, four full time Fire Inspectors, and one full time Administrative Assistant. The Fire Official and Fire Inspectors are state certified to requirements set forth by the State of New Jersey Division of Fire and Safety and completed required continuing education yearly.
In 2017, the Division started an aggressive education program that branched out from just the township schools. Inspectors now present Fire Safety to businesses including a variety of topics that encompass fire safety in the workplace, home, school, as well as time of year specific events. In addition to presentations, the Division owns and operates a Fire Safety Trailer and Fire Extinguisher prop that allows the user to practice extinguishing a real fire under a controlled environment. In 2018, the Division adopted “Prevention Through Education” as the standard to which all actions are measured to. Whether inspections in commercial settings or education at schools, the Division believes that Prevention is much more than code enforcement.
Parsippany Fire Prevention is located at 46 Gibraltar Drive, Morris Plains.
Board Member Nicolas Limanov scheduled Mr. Ricci to speak during our luncheon series. If you are interested in speaking contact Nicolas or Executive Board Member Frank Cahill at (973) 402-6400 or click here to visit our website.
PACC is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents, and volunteers that provides education, information, and networking opportunities to the Parsippany Area. We work with our local and county governments and stand ready to pursue any matter that can make our community a better place in which to live, conduct business, and make a living. We promote a healthy and more prosperous economic climate.
PARSIPPANY — Susan G. Komen North Jersey celebrated its new headquarters in Parsippany on Thursday, October 11.
“The stars sort of aligned,” Komen North Jersey Executive Director Kelly Nagle said during the ribbon cutting event. “Gosh, it was overwhelming. They made such a generous offer. But we had a need, and they had a way to help, and it worked.”
She said a Komen partner connected them with Mack-Cali leadership just as they were looking to relocate from Summit, as their lease was expiring.
“[Mack-Cali] saw an opportunity that they would be able to help and said, ‘Do you want some space rent-free?’,” Nagle said. “We’ll be saving about a quarter of a million dollars over the next five years.”
Open house for the new Susan E. Komen North Jersey headquarters in Parsippany
Since its founding in 1997, the Affiliate has called Summit its home; they started in the basement of their founder and grew so fast that a move to a small office in downtown Summit followed quickly. Not very long afterwards, they moved into the famous gray-and-pink-shuttered Komen House on Springfield Avenue. In 2012, the North Jersey Affiliate moved to their current location at 44 Middle Avenue. They made their new home at 4 Campus Drive in the Mack-Cali campus.
Open house for the new Susan E. Komen North Jersey headquarters in Parsippany
“We are deeply grateful for all the support and friendship that everyone in Summit—town officials, retailers and individuals—has given us over the years,” says Kelly E. Nagle, Executive Director of Komen North Jersey. “We couldn’t have achieved what we did without their help. But since our lease here was ending, we began to explore how and where we could continue to best meet the needs of the nine North Jersey counties that we serve. We started searching for a location that would be more centrally located, and then a wonderful thing happened. Mack-Cali learned of our quest and offered to help us by providing office space at their Parsippany campus. This incredible gesture of generosity will reduce our annual operating costs and allow us to ultimately direct more money to mission-related initiatives that will benefit our communities.”
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank CahillOpen house for the new Susan E. Komen North Jersey headquarters in ParsippanyCouncilman Michael dePierro and Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani at the Open house for the new Susan E. Komen North Jersey headquarters in ParsippanyOpen house for the new Susan E. Komen North Jersey headquarters in ParsippanyOpen house for the new Susan E. Komen North Jersey headquarters in ParsippanyParsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Advisory Committee Vice Chairman Frank Cahill presents a certificate to Susan G. Komen North Jersey Executive Director Kelly Nagle welcoming Susan B. Komen to Parsippany. Mayor Michael Soriano looks on
Susan G. Komen North Jersey’s mission is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer. Through the annual Race for the Cure®, Pink Tie Party and other events and activities, Komen North Jersey raises funds to support local community non-profit organizations that provide screening and diagnostic services, breast health/breast cancer education, treatment support, and survivorship programs for underserved women and men in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren counties. Since its founding, Komen North Jersey has awarded nearly $19 million in local community grants and has directed more than $7 million to national research programs in pursuit of new breast cancer screening techniques, better and more effective treatment options, and ultimately, the causes and cures to eradicate breast cancer forever.
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