PARSIPPANY — The state approved plans to build a high-voltage transmission line through parts of Morris County by Jersey Central Power & Light, the latest in a series of projects aimed at enhancing the reliability of the power grid.
The seven-mile transmission line, running through Parsippany, Montville and East Hanover won approval from the New Jersey Board of Utilities. When originally proposed, the project was estimated to cost $35 million, according to the utility.
JCP&L and other utilities are being pressed to modernize an aging power grid by state regulators and operators of the regional power grid, PJM Interconnection.
The Morris project, however, faced minimal opposition, compared to other projects undertaken in other areas of the New Jersey Highlands, or the controversy enveloping JCP&L’s proposed 10-mile Monmouth County Reliability Line. The latter project is before an administrative law court judge.
“JCP&L is pleased that the Board of Public Utilities unanimously approved the Montville-Whippany Reinforcement project,’’ said Ron Morano, a spokesman for the state’s second-largest electric utility. “Significant infrastructure investments such as this enable JCP&L to deliver the safe and reliable service our customers deserve and expect.’’
Utilities have embraced proposals to build transmission projects in recent years, earning far more than on investments in maintaining their distribution system — the poles and wires delivering electricity to homes and businesses.
At the same time, however, the projects have come under increasing criticism from local communities and environmentalists, in part because of a declining growth in electricity load.
The new project, which follows along an existing power line, is expected to begin construction in the first quarter of 2018, according to Morano. The project was part of a $200 million, multiyear program of transmission upgrades planned by JCP&L, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy of Akron, OH.
JCP&L has been the target of much regulatory scrutiny from the state in recent years, largely over repeated power outages and criticism that it was not investing enough to maintain its power grid.
PARSIPPANY — B&G Foods, Inc. announced that it has appointed Kenneth G. Romanzi as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, a newly created position, effective December 4, 2017. Mr. Romanzi will serve on the Company’s executive management team, reporting to President and Chief Executive Officer, Robert C. Cantwell.
Some of B&G Food products include Accent, Bear Creek, Mrs. Dash, Ortega, LaPalmas, Green Giant and French’s. The company is located at Four Gatehall Road.
“After more than doubling the size of our business over the past two years, we believe now is an excellent time to supplement our already very strong executive management team with another highly talented executive,” said CEO and President Robert C. Cantwell. “Ken Romanzi is a proven leader with extensive experience in the food and beverage industry. We are very pleased to have Ken join our team. As chief operating officer, Ken will have a broad range of responsibilities as we continue to execute our growth strategy.”
Romanzi most recently served as president of fresh foods at WhiteWave Foods Corp., where he led Earthbound Farm Organic.
Before that, he was senior vice president and chief operating officer of global brands for Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc.
His previous jobs have also included president of Hasbro’s U.S. toys division. Romanzi started his career in marketing at Frito-Lay Inc.
“B&G Foods’ executive management team has done a tremendous job through the years transforming the company from a small, regional pickles and peppers business to one of the leading public-branded food companies in the nation,” Romanzi said. “I look forward to working with Bob and the entire team at B&G Foods to assist with the future growth of the company.”
MORRIS COUNTY — More than 750 law enforcement officials from all 21 New Jersey counties recently met in Atlantic City to stay abreast of ongoing issues and to continue their legal education.
The three-day training program at the Borgata Hotel & Casino was part of the 2017 Annual College of the County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey and included an appearance by State Attorney General Christopher Porrino.
The college took place on November 18-20. The college included the installation of Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp as Association president.
Previously, he had been First Vice President. Knapp replaces Warren County Prosecutor Richard T. Burke as President. The new First Vice President will be Sussex County Prosecutor Francis A. Koch. The Second Vice President will be Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo Onofri. The secretary will be Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, the treasurer will be Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni and National District Attorneys Association delegate is Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia Valdes.
Prosecutor Knapp said, “I am honored and humbled to be elected as president of the County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey. Serving as the head of this Association is a great responsibility, which I welcome enthusiastically.” Over three days, the state’s 21 county prosecutors, 700 assistant prosecutors, detectives and members of the state Attorney General’s Office took part in an array of breakout sessions focusing on varying legal issues. Topics included such things as “The Prosecutor’s Paradox: Understanding How Unconscious Bias Can Affect Behavior,” “Managing the Opioid Crisis in Your Jurisdiction: A Sample Approach,” “Taking a Byte Out of Crime: Using Technology to Find and Prosecute Crime,” and “Recanting Witness: Friend or Foe.” Ten hours of continuing legal education programs were presented for attendees. There were also general meetings involving the 21 County Prosecutors, First Assistant Prosecutors, Chiefs of Detectives, Forensic Nurses, Victim Witness Coordinators and the Narcotics Commanders Association of New Jersey.
A highlight of the college were awards given to three individuals, including Catherine Broderick, a Supervising Assistant Prosecutor in Morris County who was honored for Outstanding Advocacy Over a Career. A graduate of Seton Hall University School of Law, Broderick has prosecuted many different crimes, but has spent much of her career handling cases involving the most vulnerable of victims.
When Megan’s Law was enacted, Broderick created a unit to fully comply with the law, including the prosecution of offenders and community notification upon their release. Broderick most recently has served as the Supervising Assistant Prosecutor in charge of the Specialized Services Unit, which includes Megan’s Law, Missing Persons, Weapons Returns and several other office functions. In 2016, she was selected by the Morris County Bar Association as the Association’s Professional Lawyer of the Year.
Also honored were Brian C. Matthews, an Essex County Assistant Prosecutor who most recently helped secure a conviction in a case involving a murder and a carjacking at the Mall at Short Hills. He was honored for Outstanding Advocacy in a Single Case. A third honoree was Daniel Bornstein, who was cited for Outstanding Advocacy Over a Career in a Non-Trial Position. Bornstein has been a Deputy Attorney General in the Division of Criminal Justice since 1995, and he has served as Chief of the Division’s Appellate Bureau since September 2014. During his career as an appellate prosecutor, he has handled dozens of high-profile cases in the New Jersey Supreme Court and Appellate Division. Bornstein currently supervises 20 Deputy Attorneys General, one attorney assistant, and five administrative assistants in the Appellate Bureau, and he regularly provides trial assistance to trial prosecutors and appellate prosecutors across the state.
MORRIS COUNTY — First Night Morris is celebrating its 26th anniversary on Sunday, December 31, as one of New Jersey’s biggest and brightest First Night events — a New Year’s Eve family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration of the arts – with nearly 200 artists, 85 events in 24 venues – representing dance, theatre, music, world cultures, visual arts and children’s events.
For all 26 years, Morris Arts has been First Night Morris’ artistic programmer, securing topflight talents who attract thousands of people from Morris County and beyond.
More than half of the program features new artists, or artists returning after several years, many of whom have performed at top venues, such as the White House, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Metropolitan Opera, and who have won international recognition, performed on national radio/TV, in major films and/or collaborated with superstars of performing arts.
On December 31 in Morristown, you can experience everything from a Metropolitan Opera soprano to inflatable dinosaurs!
Rock/Bluegrass/Blues: The John Ginty Band showcasing Ginty, who toured/performed with the Dixie Chicks, Jewel, Santana. Silk City brings its blend of bluegrass, roots and honky-tonk music. For gutsy, full-throated blues with a touch of funk, R&B, country and jazz, don’t miss the Cobra Brothers.
Jazz and Swing: First Night would not be complete without jazz pianist, Rio Clemente and his inventive and sparkling improvisations. Mauricio de Souza’sband Bossa Brasil offers smooth, Brazilian-tinted jazz while James Langton takes it Nice & Easy, Swingin’ the Great American Songbook.
Broadway: A Night of Broadway Stars transports the Great White Way to First Night, featuring Broadway performers singing unforgettable songs from Phantom, Wicked, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and other great shows.
Folk Music: Catch the crystalline voice of singer/songwriter Christine DeLeon. If you prefer musical satire, don’t miss John Forster, whose works were recorded by Judy Collins and Roseanne Cash.
Classical Music: Don’t miss Metropolitan Opera Soprano, Jennifer Check, who has sung under the world’s top conductors (Levine, Maazel, Ozawa) and will be joined by award-winning pianist, Andrew Rosenblum. First Night also offers the New Jersey Festival Orchestra, the piano virtuosity of Laryssa Krupa (with her trio), the grand brass of Solid Brass Lite, and the Harmonium Choral Society. You can even meet “Beethoven” himself as Dennis Kobray’s Meet the Musicians shares the life and works by the great composer.
World Cultures: Includes the Korean Traditional Dance of Choomnoor; exotic Music of the Middle East, which spotlights Armenian oud master Ara Dinkjian and Turkish kanun virtuoso Tamer Pinarbasi. Melanie Mitrano performs haunting songs of Portuguese Fado and Brazilian song traditions, while Irish (and other) eyes will be smiling at the music of Irish Fiddler Brian Conway (with guitarist John Walsh). Groove on good vibrations from The Didge Project which blends the sounds of the Australian aboriginal didgeridoo with world rhythms and tribal beats. And join in the salsa, merengue and tango with Daniel Herrera’s DREAMS dancers or infectious rhythms of Folk Music of Colombia with Viva Vallenato’s cumbia and vallenato.
Mayhem Poets blend poetry, hip hop, improv, stand-up comedy
Theater/Comedy? Laugh into the New Year with Comedian Moody McCarthy, Hypno Marc’s Comedy Hypnotism, and Master Magician and Illusionist Great Scott! with his feathered partner Thurston (a blue/gold macaw). Also Robert Costello becomes Abraham Lincoln; Lou Del Bianco tells the story of his grandfather, the Master Carver of Mt. Rushmore; The Mayhem Poets blend poetry, hip hop, improv and stand-up comedy; Kit’s Interactive Theater drafts the audience directly into the performance of Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother; and Storyteller Extraordinaire, Julie Pasqual, shares stories from around the world.
Dance: First Nighters can savor dazzling routines of New Jersey Tap Ensemble soloists Maurice Chestnut and Jeffry Foote, delight in the elegant beauty of Korean Traditional Dance of Choomnoori, enjoy Latin Dance with Daniel Herrera’s D.R.E.A.M.S. dancers, or try Square Dancing with Caller, Mary Moody.
Dinoman’s Dinosaurs will entertain kids
Children’s/ Family Programs: Who could resist Dinoman Dinosaurs or Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery? Catch the clowns, face painting balloons, and organ grinder at The Children’s Fun Festival or visit Transformations Facepainting. Perennial favorite and skilled circus performer, Mr. Fish will be back to amaze audiences with Phenomenal Physics.
Younger Children (4:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.): Hula hooping with Whirled Revolution, art making artist Samantha (“Sam”) Matthews’ Art 4 Kids, and Fun with LEGOs. New to this year’s early session is the Korean Traditional Dance of Choomnoori, with dazzling costumes and choreography, and Square Dancing with Caller, Mary Moody.
Three visual arts exhibits (displaying over 300 artworks) and two sets of fireworks top off that magical evening known as First Night® Morris County. To check out the full lineup of artists, visit: www.firstnightmorris.com.
PARSIPPANY — Spencer Savings Bank participated in Jersey Cares’ Coat Drive from September 22 through November 16 to help distribute coats this upcoming winter season to residents in need. The bank collected new and “gently used” winter coats for all ages, and altogether collected over 400 coats for the cause. This is the first time Spencer Savings Bank has partnered with Jersey Cares. Spencer Savings Bank is located at 1699 Littleton Road.
“We are very excited to be partnering up with a new organization and one that does such great work.” said Janel Bazih, Vice President and Marketing Manager of Spencer Savings Bank. “Coats are expensive and not all families are able to afford them, so we are thankful for the generous amount of donations from our customers and employees.”
Established in 1993, Jersey Cares is a nonprofit organization whose focus is to increase civic engagement in New Jersey by coordinating volunteer opportunities to address community-identified needs. The organization provides hundreds of volunteer opportunities, ranging from tutoring children to painting new murals in schools, along with the Coat Drive. This year marks the 22nd Annual Jersey Cares Coat Drive. Last year, Jersey Cares collected and distributed over 30,000 coats throughout the state of New Jersey, and the plan is to exceed that number this year.
Spencer Savings Bank, a community bank headquartered in Elmwood Park, has been serving its local communities with integrity and pride for more than 75 years. The bank, serving consumers and businesses, operates 21 branches throughout New Jersey. For more information click here.
Jersey Cares, a nonprofit organization, expands meaningful volunteer engagement by creating and managing efficient, impactful projects to address critical community-identified needs. The organization partners with local nonprofits and implements volunteer projects to meet these needs. Individuals, families, corporate employees, and community groups are provided with a wide variety of volunteer opportunities that range from tutoring children to painting new murals in schools. Through the annual Coat Drive, Jersey Cares has collected, sorted, and distributed more than 500,000 coats for New Jersey residents over the past 21 years. Jersey Cares is an affiliate of the Hands on Network, an innovative alliance of volunteer catalysts throughout the world. For more information click here.
PARSIPPANY — On Thursday, November 16, Silvia Cooper, Branch Manager of Boiling Springs Savings Bank, 66 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha was inducted into Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. Club secretary Karen Gajewski presented Silvia with her Kiwanis membership pin and certificate.
“Kiwanis is something so good that each of us loves to share it. What better way to show our love for our club and our community than to welcome a new member into our club? Today we’re very pleased to welcome Silvia Cooper to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany,” said President Frank Cahill.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Secretary Karen Gajewski placed the Kiwanis pin on new member Silvia Cooper. Silva is the branch manager at Boiling Springs Savings Bank located on North Beverwyck Road
Cahill continued “We welcome you to this global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. Would you, Karen Gajewski, please place the pin on Silvia’s lapel? Silvia, by presenting you with this certificate of membership, I welcome you, on behalf of the entire membership, into the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.”
A new member for our club means new ideas, new enthusiasm, greater fellowship—and greater service.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets at the Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46 every Thursday morning at 7:15 a.m. If you are interested in joining our dedicated volunteers, join us for breakfast. For additional information you can email Frank Cahill at flcahill@parsippanykwianis.org.
PARSIPPANY — Lincoln Property Company announced a total of 45,000 square feet across two, three-story office buildings totaling 114,000 square feet. Lincoln worked on behalf of 8H9H Lanidex and Milelli Real Estate Partners. All of these leases were signed or renewed at 800-900 Lanidex Plaza.
The transactions include:
ENT & Allergy leased 9,792 square feet. Peter Rossi of Newmark Knight Frank worked on behalf of the tenant. They signed a ten year lease at 900 Lanidex Plaza.
Total Renal Care, a subsidiary of DaVita Inc., leased 7,552 square feet at 900 Lanidex Plaza. Robert Hoffmann and Christine Eberle of Cushman & Wakefield represented the tenant in the transaction. They signed a twelve year lease.
Unicom Systems leased 4,360 square feet at 800 Lanidex Plaza.
Pacific Healthcare Laboratories relocated from Matawan and leased 4,067 square feet at Lanidex Plaza.
Western Industries, Vertellus, Aquent, Marotta Gund, Adecco USA, Andrew Leicht, Beeline, DRV Holding, Armo & Hardwicke Capital extended their leases.
“We are honored to welcome such a distinguished group of new and existing companies that will greatly complement our other current tenants,” said Joseph Milelli Jr. of Milelli Real Estate Partners. “These leases are a reflection of our and Lincoln Property Company’s commitment to meeting the needs of prospective tenants in a timely and cost-effective manner and by providing them with a virtually new state-of- the-art facility in one of the most desirable locations in the region.”
PARSIPPANY — Tenants have signed leases for more than 60,000 square feet in new leases and renewals at Parsippany Commerce Center, 1639 Route 10 East, bringing the 152,000-square-foot property to 100 percent occupancy.
The deals included three new leases and three renewals, with Rick Genthe, senior vice president of LPC, representing ownership.
The transactions include:
Aerotek Inc., a global recruiting and staffing agency, relocated to the building and signed a long-term lease for 21,864 square feet.
Simon & Schuster, the CBS-owned consumer publisher, renewed its lease for 13,645 square feet.
CHA Inc., a full-service engineering and construction management firm, relocated to the building and signed a 5,995-square-foot lease.
Macro Consulting Group, a financial planning company, relocated and expanded within the building and now occupies 7,958 square feet.
One Legacy Financial relocated from Bridgewater to lease 4,650 square feet on the second floor.
Application Consulting Group, which provides business intelligence and performance management solutions to Fortune 500 companies, renewed its nearly 4,500-square-foot lease.
“We are honored to welcome Aerotek Inc., CHA Inc. and One Legacy Financial as new tenants and have Simon & Schuster, Macro Consulting Group and Application Consulting Group all elect to renew and extend their leases with us at Parsippany Commerce Center,” Genthe said. “These leases are a reflection of the ownership’s and Lincoln Property Company’s commitment to meeting the needs of prospective tenants in a timely manner and providing them with a state-of-the-art facility in one of the most desirable locations in the state.”
Charles Parmelli of Cushman & Wakefield represented Aerotek Inc. in its lease, while Chris Conklin and Jason Benson of JLL represented both CHA and Marco Consulting Group. The C&W team of Paul Giannone and Paul Hindes represented Simon & Schuster.
LPC also noted that Suzanne Kiall of Suzanne Kiall & Associates represented One Legacy Financial, while ACG was represented by Jack Feeney of Savills Studley.
Parsippany Commerce Center is a three-story, 152,261-square-foot office building. The property has benefited from several upgrades and improvements, LPC said, including new restrooms and a new full-service café with seating for more than 80 people.
The building also features an executive dining room and all new common areas and lobby finishes. Sitting on Route 10 East, the property is just a quarter-mile west of a four-way interchange of Interstate 287 and just a mile south of Interstate 80.
PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders and Morris County Park Commission held a groundbreaking in Parsippany for the new Central Park of Morris County main access road, which was named formally yesterday as Governor Chris Christie Drive.
Governor Christie, who is a former Morris County Freeholder, and New Jersey First Lady Mary Pat Christie participated in the event held on the route of the new road in Central Park, along with the freeholders, park commissioners, legislators, and mayors from Parsippany and Morris Township, among others.
“We have a dual purpose today: We are marking the start of construction of a much needed new access road to Central Park of Morris County, and at the same time, we are marking the place in our county’s history of Governor Christie – who is a Morris County resident and one-time county freeholder,’’ said Freeholder Director Doug Cabana.
Freeholder Cabana detailed the assistance received by the county from the Christie Administration to move ahead on the much-needed road, and also detailed the Governor’s long-time role in Morris County government and its history.
Gov. Christie is one of a select group of just four persons from Morris County to serve as Governor of New Jersey, and only the second since the late 1800s.
The others are George Theodore Werts (1893-1896), Philemon Dickerson (1836-37), and Mahlon Dickerson (1815-1817) – for whom the Morris County Park Commission’s Mahlon Dickerson Reservation is named.
“As a two-term elected Governor, the United States Attorney for New Jersey appointed by President George Bush, a presidential candidate, and – of course –a Morris County Freeholder, Gov. Christie has earned his place in the state and county’s history books,’’ said Freeholder Cabana.
“We thank him for his service to our state, county, and nation as his second term nears an end, and wish him, the First Lady, and their family well in the future,’’ added Freeholder Cabana.
As part of the event, Governor Christie was presented with a ceremonial “Governor Chris Christie Drive’’ road sign by the freeholders and park commission.
“This is part of the reason why you want to raise your family here,’’ said Gov. Christie. “It’s places like this where you can bring your children for them to grow up in a surrounding that is as beautiful as this with the opportunities to compete and to share a special time with their family.
“That’s all a wonderful part of what it means to live in Morris County,’’ said the Governor.
The new Central Park of Morris County access road will be a one-third mile connector of Central Avenue in the county park to West Hanover Avenue, a short distance from downtown Morris Plains.
It will provide easier access to the park and alleviate much of the traffic that now cuts through residential neighborhoods in Parsippany, Morris Plains and Morris Township to get the soccer fields, skating rinks, dog park, and other popular features of the park.
Work on the $1.5 million project will start shortly and should be completed by mid-2018.
To build the new road across state land, the county had to obtain a 14-acre right of easement from the state and other approvals, and received support of the Christie Administration in those efforts.
Also earlier this year, in cooperation with the Christie Administration, the Park Commission worked out a long-term management agreement with the state for 106 undeveloped acres of state land on the former Greystone Hospital campus to add to the our Central Park venue.
The Morris County Freeholders hold a dedication ceremony of Chris Christie Drive, a new entry road into Central Park of Morris County from Hanover Avenue.The Morris County Freeholders hold a dedication ceremony of Chris Christie Drive, a new entry road into Central Park of Morris County from Hanover Avenue.The Morris County Freeholders hold a dedication ceremony of Chris Christie Drive, a new entry road into Central Park of Morris County from Hanover Avenue.Governor Chris Christie Drive
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders has proclaimed November 23 as Turkey Trot Day in Morris County, to highlight an annual fun, family event and the nonprofit beneficiaries of the event: the Interfaith Food Pantry and Literacy Volunteers of Morris County.
The 11th annual Turkey Trot in Morris Township will be held on Thanksgiving morning, starting and finishing at Ginty Field, just a short drive from the Morristown Green.
It is open to residents from throughout Morris County, and their visiting family and friends.
“This is a great family morning of activities and entertainment for people of all ages and abilities, which draws thousands of people from throughout the county to a Thanksgiving Day tradition,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Director Doug Cabana.
“Even more important, this event helps raise funds for community-based food distribution and adult learning,’’ he added.
The proclamation was presented to Rosemary Gilmartin and Carolyn Lake, the director and associate director of the Food Pantry, and to Debbie Leon, executive director of the Literacy Volunteers, at the county governing board’s Nov. 8 meeting in Morristown.
The 2017 Turkey Trot is a day of activities and entertainment for individuals and families of all ages and abilities that features a UATF-certified 5K race, a one-mile Fun Walk/Run and Kids’ Trot, and which draws thousands of people to the area to help raise funds for community-based food distribution and adult learning.
Proceeds from the Turkey Trot are shared between the Interfaith Food Pantry and Literacy Volunteers of Morris County to benefit many Morris County residents.
Interfaith Food Pantry, since its inception in 1994, has provided thousands of pounds of food and groceries to Morris County’s residents in need — currently serving 2,000 households monthly — and hours of nutrition education and counseling. For more information please click here.
Literacy Volunteers of Morris County, through its committed tutors, has provided to hundreds of adults free-of-cost learning and assistance in the areas of English as a Second Language, reading, basic math skills, GED and citizenship. For more information please click here.
Freeholder Director Doug Cabana, Literacy Volunteers of Morris County Executive Director Debbie Leon, and Interfaith Food Pantry Director Rosemary Gilmartin
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Christian School hosted its first annual Tip Off Classic basketball tournament on Thursday, November 16 through Saturday, November 18. Baptist Regional from Haddon Heights, Coventry Christian from Pottstown, PA and Upton Lake Christian from Clinton Corners, NY all traveled to Parsippany to compete in the boys and girls high school varsity basketball tournament.
Senior forward and captain Kervensky Noel cutting down the net
Parsippany Christian boys’ and girls’ teams defeated Upton Lake Christian on Thursday to advance to the finals. While Coventry Christian boys’ and girls’ teams beat Baptist Regional on Friday night to also advance to the finals held on Saturday.
Parsippany Christian also staged a three point shooting contest throughout the tournament.
In the girl’s championship game, Parsippany Christian girl’s team (2-0) blitzed Coventry Christian with a strong full court press in the second half to come away with the win, 54-27. Parsippany Christian outscored Coventry
Christian 30-10 in the second half. Sophomore guard Chloe Milanesi recorded a double double with a team high 16 points and 13 rebounds and also added 4 steals and 4 assists. Freshman forward Rose Hockman contributed 15 points and had a team high 5 assists. Hockman also had 7 rebounds.
In the boy’s final, Parsippany Christian (2-0) edged out a tough Coventry Christian team by a score of 42-39 in a game that was close throughout.
Alyssa Chellaraj holding her 3 point shooting champion trophy
Parsippany Christian held a slim one point lead at halftime, 20-19.
The Patriots employed a strong man to man defense to claim it’s second win of the young season.
Senior forward Michael Jetton had a team high 23 points in championship game, including three 3-pointers. Senior guard Patrick Vance recorded team highs 13 rebounds and 4 steals in the game.
Chloe Milanesi earned MVP for the girl’s tournament and Rose Hockman earned All-Stars and for the boy’s contest, Michael Jetton was awarded tournament MVP and Patrick Vance captured All-Stars.
In the 3 point shooting contest, Parsippany Christian senior guard Alyssa Chellaraj won for the girls and senior Mike Beitz from Coventry Christian won for the boys.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders is creating a new Morris County Strategic Plan to identify key priorities and guiding principles for county government over the next decade, and we want your help in determining priorities.
County leaders want to know about the issues that are important to residents in all 39 Morris County towns and are offering two ways for you to contribute to the discussion:
COME OUT: Attend a public forum on Wednesday, November 29 at the Morris County Public Library located at 30 East Hanover Avenue in the Whippany section of Hanover Township any time between 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
SPEAK OUT: Fill out an online survey and share this link with your family, neighbors, and friends so that they can do the same. Click here to go to survey.
Morris County Freeholder Christine Myers
“Morris County has long been one of the best places in America to live, work and raise a family. It would be easy to become a bit complacent and assume that our good fortune will just continue,’’ said Freeholder Christine Myers, who is spearheading the Strategic Master Plan effort.
“Just as you have to prepare for a changing future at home and in your business lives, we in county government also have to plan for a changing future and then execute a new plan,’’ Freeholder Myers added.
The Strategic Plan process will thoroughly review all aspects of county government and its connections to our residents, local governments, nonprofits, and the education and business communities.
After all of the data has been analyzed, thoroughly reviewed and discussed, the steering committee and freeholders will create a priority list of strategic initiatives that will be implemented in the coming years.
Douglas R. Cabana, Freeholder Director
The goal is to ensure a bright future for Morris County, to maintain our high quality of life, strengthen the county’s economic backbone, and provides our residents with services they most prefer and need.The committee also is engaging key stakeholders, including non-profit organizations, educational institutions, municipal leaders, business owners, and health care providers, to understand their needs and tap their knowledge. As a result, the Board of Freeholders has created a steering committee, comprised of private sector leaders and county, municipal and subject matter experts to help create a Strategic Plan. As a first step, the committee is reaching out to our county residents through a survey to capture your concerns, get your advice, and understand your priorities.
“We are excited about the opportunity to work together with our residents, towns, and stakeholders to shape the future that we want to pass on to the next generations,’’ said Freeholder Director Doug Cabana. “We look forward to hearing from our residents, so please fill out the survey and attend the November 29 meeting.’’
Results of the survey and key information on the Strategic Plan process will be available on the Morris County government website, at www.morriscountynj.gov, and it will be distributed through the media and other public outlets.
The Board of Freeholders in 2016 approved a strategic planning process that would develop consensus and codify those values considered most important to Morris County and its residents.
This resulted in development of a vision, mission and guiding principles document for the county, which was adopted by the freeholders:
Morris County will continue to be the premier place in which to live, work, and raise a family.
Our county will continue to build our vibrant and sustainable economy and preserve our natural resources and history.
We will honor our unique quality of life, assure a safe, well-maintained infrastructure and offer cultural and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
We will continue to offer compassionate support to those in need and maintain our tradition as a caring community.
The Freeholder Board wants to know if you agree with this vision, and, if so, how to attain it. So please participate.
PARSIPPANY — In an effort to serve the hungry and hurting in Hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico, Liquid Church, one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing Christian churches, has announced it will pack and ship a record-breaking one million holiday meals in a single weekend during the largest Christmas Outreach in its history.
“Months after Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, thousands of people are still without food, water, power, and adequate shelter. The scope of the disaster is heartbreaking for families on the island, as well as their loved ones right here in New Jersey – many of whom are a part of Liquid Church,” said Tim Lucas, lead pastor and founder of Liquid Church. “The damage left in the wake of this storm broke our hearts and fueled us to come alongside our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico, and that’s why we set such an ambitious goal for our 2017 Christmas Outreach.”
On Friday, December 8 and Saturday, December 9, 4,000 volunteers will gather across seven locations, working to meet the goal of one million meals. Designed as a family event, children and parents will serve alongside each other at the Christmas Outreach, working in an “assembly line fashion” in order to pack thousands of meals in short order.
Liquid Church’s provision of one million meals will double the meal-packing achievement from last year, when 500,000 meals were packed in one day.
“It’s part of our DNA at Liquid Church to serve others here at home and around the world. We feel called to put our faith into action, and our Christmas Outreach is an incredible opportunity to show Christ’s compassion to the hungry and hurting,” added Lucas. “We’re inviting everyone in the community to join us to help us reach our big, hairy, audacious goal of one million meals and serve our neighbors-in-need in Puerto Rico!”
Liquid Church’s seven Christmas Outreach locations include Parsippany in Morris County, Nutley in Essex County, Jersey City in Hudson County, Edison in Middlesex County, Somerset in Somerset County, and Garwood and Mountainside in Union County.
The Christmas Outreach is a family-friendly event and volunteers of all ages are welcome to serve. Attendance at Liquid Church is not required. Details and volunteer registration forms are available online by clicking here.
Liquid Church is one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing Christian churches. Officially launched in 2007 by Lead Pastor Tim Lucas, the church’s vision and mission is to “Saturate the State with the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” with six campuses in Essex, Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, and Union Counties. Each week, more than 3,500 people experience Liquid Church’s worship services in New Jersey and around the globe through Church Online. As part of its global outreach, Liquid provides clean drinking water to the poorest of the poor, with dozens of completed wells in several countries including El Salvador and Nicaragua – and most recently, Rwanda! Liquid Church’s innovative approaches to outreach and ministry have been spotlighted by CNN and The New York Times. For more information
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Explorers were very fortunate to see what it is like to provide security for very large special events at Metlife Stadium.
The crew was greeted at the gate by Retired Chief of Detectives Morris County Prosecutor Office Joseph Devine and New Jersey State Police, Meadowlands Station Commander, Lieutenant Peter Velez.
After a very informative security briefing by Lt. Velez the Explorers they off to see the “good stuff” and explored behind the scenes of Metlife Stadium.
When you take a look at our pictures, you’ll see it’s quite evident we have more Giants fans. Sorry to the Jets and they definitely checked out their operation also. They finished the tour with a full-out charge onto the field. Enjoy the pics and if anyone wants to stop by and see the operation they will be having a holiday party and meeting on December 12 at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference Room at Parsippany Police Headquarters.
To be a member of the Post you have to be between 14 and 20 years old, pass a background check, and agree to strict paramilitary rules and regulations.
Members of Parsippany Police Explorers
For more information click here or email Lt. Keith Lefferts at klefferts@parpolice.com.
Exploring is a nationally recognized career education program chartered through Learning for Life and the Boy Scouts for young men and women who are 14 (and have completed the eighth grade) through 20 years old. The purpose of the Parsippany Police Explorer Program is to provide information and experiences to young men and women who are interested in a possible law enforcement career. To accomplish this, PTHPD Explorer Post #131 utilizes a hands on training approach while providing curriculum and experiences that help young people mature and learn lifelong leadership skills, while establishing an awareness of the challenges of law enforcement. Post meetings are held twice per month, where Explorers practice military drill, learn about law enforcement topics, develop teamwork through problem solving, and regularly participate in community service details. Membership within the program is contingent upon the Explorer adhering to the rules and regulations found within the Parsippany Police Explorer Manual and the paramilitary organizational style approach.
PARSIPPANY — Today is another proud day in Parsippany as Keith J. Hawkins, Jr., received Eagle Scout during his Eagle Scout Court of Honor held at Celebrate the Children’s School in Denville.
The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail leading up to three peaks, the highest being that of Eagle Scout. Officially, the trail starts with the Tenderfoot rank and continues through Second and First Class ranks. Then, the mountain climbing begins. The path is marked with merit badges, leadership responsibilities, service projects, and the practice of Scouting skills and ideals. The first peak reached is that of Star Scout, the second is Life Scout, and, finally, Eagle Scout.
Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Keith J. Hawkins, Jr.
1 of 40
Scoutmaster Adam Sonzogni
Presentation of the colors
Pledge of Allegiance by Matthew Sonzogni
Invocation by Mr. Bob Keller
Eagle Escort by Andrew and Thomas Goetschkes
Master of Ceremony Mr. John Maddox
Certification of Eagle Qualifications by Mrs. Brenda Sonzogni
Four Winds Ceremony
Four Winds Ceremony
Four Winds Ceremony
West Wind by Matthew Zonzogni
South Wind by Aidan Wall
Andrew Goetschkes, "Eagle Oath"
Eagle Oath
Mom Emily Hawkins placing the Eagle Pin on Keith
Keith placing the mom pin on his mother
Keith placing the Dad pin on his father
Dad placing the Eagle Neckerchief on Keith
Keith presenting mentor pins to Keith, Sr., Scoutmaster Adam Sonzogni, Kevin Wall and John Maddox
Mr. Nick Corrente, Charge to the Eagle
Mrs. Wendy Uricoli, Eagle Mothers Poem
Mayor James Barberio presents Keith with a proclamation from the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills
Mayor James Barberio presents Keith with an "Eagle"
Council President Louis Valori, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani, Keith and Councilman Michael dePierro
Lauren Blaszak, Executive Directors of Celebrate the Children school presenting Keith with a "Thank you" plaque
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member Frank Cahill presenting Keith with a plaque and gift from the Chamber
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill, and Young Children Priority One Co-Director Karen DeChristopher presenting Keith with a plaque of achievement and a gift from Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany
Marilyn Marion, Parsippany Womens Club with Keith
Keith receiving a certificate from Mr. Richard Kunz Commander VFW Post 10184
Nick Corrente, Tom McGowan, Jr. and Keith
Troop 72
The Eagle Minute by Keith J. Hawkins, Jr.
Mr. and Mr. Hawkins during Parents Minute
Keith getting a hug from his mom
Keith stands proud at the entrance of the Lego Room
Lego themed portrait on the back wall
Troop 72 on the wall at Celebrate the Children
CTC Lego Room at Celebrate the Children
The Hawkins Family
Celebration Cake
The Eagle Scout Award is Scouting’s highest rank and among its most familiar icons. Men who have earned it count it among their most treasured possessions. Those who missed it by a whisker remember exactly which requirement they didn’t complete. Americans from all walks of life know that being an Eagle Scout is a great honor. The award is more than a badge. It’s a state of being. The Eagle Scout may have received the badge as a boy, but you earn it every day as a man. In the words of the Eagle Scout Promise, they do your best each day to make their training and example, their rank and their influence count strongly for better Scouting and for better citizenship in the troop, in their community, and in their contacts with other people. And to this they pledge their sacred honor.
Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than two million young men. Only 5% of the Boy Scouts actually earn this rank.
Troop 72 was founded in 1954, and has been serving the boys of the Parsippany area ever since. They have scouts from all parts of Parsippany and beyond. They are sponsored by St. Peter the Apostle Church and All Saints Academy.
Ms. Brenda Sonzogni, Troop 72 Advancement Committee Chair, certified to the National Office of the Boy Scouts of America that Keith J. Hawkins, Jr., met the requirements for the rank of Eagle.
Keith earned 29 merit badges, 13 of these are required merit badges to earn Eagle. The required badges are:
Camping
Citizenship in the Community
Citizenship in the Nation
Citizenship in the World
Communications
Cooking
Emergency Preparedness
Environmental Science
Family Life
First Aid
Personal Management
Personal Fitness
Swimming
Keith earned the following elective merit badges:
Archery
Chess
Electricity
Energy
Fingerprinting
Geology
Home Repairs
Indian Lore
Leatherwork
Metalwork
Pioneering
Railroading
Rifle Shooting
Robotics
Shotgun Shooting
Wood Carving
Keith also earned the following Recognitions or Trainings:
1. Den Chief Training
2. Den Chief Service Award
3. NRA Rifle Pro-Marksman
4. NRA Rifle Marksman
5. NRA Rifle Marksman First Class
6. NRA Rifle Sharpshooter
7. NRA Shotgun Pro-Marksman
8. NOA Camping Award
9. National Youth Leadership Training
10. Woodsman’s Thong
Keith had to serve actively in a troop position for a period of six months after becoming a Life Scout. He served as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster after earning Life Scout.
Keith had to plan, develop and carry out a service project worthy of an Eagle Scout. Keith took on the challenge of creating a Lego Therapy room for the Celebrate the Children School in Denville. The project started with painting the room and outside hallway arch. Keith organized a Lego collection effort by using communication skills learned as a scout, and by social media outreach. This led to donations by friends, neighbors and members of Troop 72. Keith also made a presentation of his project to Troop 8 in Chatham, garnering more donations. In conjunction with the sponsor, Keith helped design the room, and compiled a list of materials. These materials allowed for two large “building tables”, a set of portable tray “building tables”, and two large building areas on the wall. These are all covered with lego base plates. For storage, donated shelving was assembled, and storage cabinet refinished to a brighter color. While supervising the construction, Keith also provided direction to volunteers sorting, cleaning and drying the donated Legos. To make the room truly unique, Keith contacted an amateur artist to provide a Lego themed portrait on the back wall.
After completing this Eagle Scout Project he had to appear before a Board of Review of prominent persons and satisfy them that he had done his best to understand and live up to the Scout Oath and Law, and in all ways, qualify for the Eagle Scout Award.
Keith received special acknowledgements from Councilman Michael dePierro on behalf of the Township Council, Parsippany Rotary Club, Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, Assemblyman Jay Webber and SenatorJoe Pennacchio; Frank Cahill, President and Karen DeChristopher, Vice President, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany; Richard Kunz on behalf of Parsippany VFW Post 10184, Marilyn Marion from Parsippany Women’s Club, Lauren Blaszak, Executive Directors of Celebrate the Children School and Executive Board Member Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Frank Cahill.
Keith is a 2017 alumni of Parsippany Hills High School and currently is attending Morris County Community College.
PARSIPPANY — IN5PIRE Benefit Concert was held at Parsippany High School on Sunday, November 19. The evening was filled with music, dance and learning.
IN5PIRE is a collaborative effort lead by girls from multiple high schools to support five different organizations: Think Sharp, Surgeons of Hope, Operation Smile, StepUP and FIRMC (Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children). All proceeds were donated to the organizations.
Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani, Councilman Michael DePierro, Sunisha Busarajan and Shreenidhi Katikaneni and Council President Louis ValoriSunisha Busarajan and Shreenidhi Katikaneni were representing FIMRC
FIMRC is a 501(c)(3), non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health of families in the developing world through the implementation of innovative and self-sustainable health improvement programs. Through its network of outpatient clinics and partnerships, FIMRC asserts a multidimensional strategy that includes clinical services, extensive community outreach efforts and health education programs.
FIMRC is a self-sustainable organization with project related funding provided from business operations – the Global Health Volunteer Program engages approximately 900 individuals annually who volunteer their time abroad and make a contribution in exchange for the experience FIMRC provides. Over 90% of FIMRC’s revenue is derived from our volunteer program, therefore funding our project sites across the globe.
FIMRC was founded in 2002, is incorporated in Washington, DC and headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The FIMRC team includes over 3,000 dedicated staff and volunteers worldwide who provide the leadership and support necessary to achieve our mission of improving access to health care for children in underserved communities. For more information or to make a donation, click here.
Operation Smile was founded in 1982 when Dr. William (Bill) P. Magee, Jr., a plastic surgeon, and his wife, Kathleen (Kathy), a nurse and clinical social worker, traveled to the Philippines with a group of medical volunteers to repair children’s cleft lips and cleft palates.
What they found was overwhelming. “People pushed their babies at us.” recalls Kathy. “They tugged at our sleeves with tears in their eyes and begged us to help their children.” In Naga City, approximately 300 families arrived hoping their children would receive surgery, but the team could only treat 40 children. As they prepared to leave, the Magees made a promise they would return to help more children.
They began soliciting donations of surgical equipment and supplies from manufacturers, threw themselves into grassroots fundraising and assembled a volunteer team of 18 doctors, nurses and technicians for their own medical mission to the Philippines. They helped approximately 100 more patients, but again, hundreds still waited. For more information or to make a donation, click here.
Thinksharp Foundation is a registered non-profit organisation started in 2011.
At Thinksharp Foundation, they believe that every child has a right for better education and that he/she should have opportunity to access what they deserve.
Thinksharp Foundation is running Project “StudyMall” – Read and Learn in various villages of Maharashtra.
Providing a progressive learning environment for the community fostering academic and non- academic talents in a dynamic competitive world.
Empower rural communities by providing infrastructure, resources and training to support and improve learning outcomes of students, professional development for teachers and school community and enhance the digital way of learning by establishing StudyMall in villages. For more information or to make a donation, click here.
The Surgeons of Hope Foundation (SoH), is a New York City, NY based nonprofit established in 2001. Our organization aims to provide every infant and child with a damaged heart an equal opportunity to receive life-saving surgery.
It is an unconscionable loss that a child dies anywhere in the world from a heart defect (congenital or acquired) due to lack of resources for proper care, when a child living in the most remote area of the U.S. or Europe with the same heart defect would be easily cured. Surgeons of Hope seeks to narrow that disparity by living up to its motto: ”It’s Not What We Bring. It’s What We Leave Behind”.
We approach the need on three key fronts by giving urgently needed care, cultivating skills in local medical teams, and constructing centers of care in developing countries. For more information or to make donations, click here.
Step Up propels girls living in or going to school in under-resourced communities to fulfill their potential by empowering them to become confident, college-bound, career-focused, and ready to join the next generation of professional women. Step Up believes all girls should have the opportunity to fulfill their potential. Step Up is a special place where we all propel the fulfillment of potential. We take pride in our core values from which we develop our culture, our brand, and our impact strategies. For more information or to make a donation, click here.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Clarence DeLoatch was outside of Marshalls, 3101 Route 46, when he observed a male, identified as Gregory Calvo, 47, Union City, exit through the entrance of the store with a suitcase.
As Mr. Calvo exited the store, Officer DeLoatch observed what appeared to be an electronic security device attached to it, and also heard the audible alarm sounding inside the doorway of the store.
He then spoke to Mr. Calvo and after a brief investigation approximately $1466 worth of merchandise was found inside the suitcase. Mr. Calvo was placed under arrest and transported back to police headquarters. He was charged with one count of Third Degree Shoplifting.
He was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his initial court appearance.
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.
PARSIPPANY — The victim responded to police headquarters to speak to officers regarding credit card fraud.
After a brief investigation it was determined that the victim gave his full credit card information when he ordered from Cluck-U in Morristown.
Shortly after he became suspicious and observed a charge for $450.00 at the Parsippany Inn and Suites.
After a brief investigation by Patrol Officers James Seeger and Edward Elston, they made contact with Jose Alvarez, 31, Morristown, who is employed by Cluck-U, inside his room at the Parsippany Inn and Suites.
He was subsequently placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters where he was charged with one count of Third Degree Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card; one count of Fourth Degree Credit Card Theft; one count of Fourth Degree Forgery; one count of Fourth Degree Identity Theft.
He was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his first appearance.
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.
PARSIPPANY — Northvail Elementary announced their 2017 PTA Reflections winners whose submissions will be moving up to the County level for judging.
Reflections is a National PTA Reflections program developed in 1969 to encourage students in 12 to explore their talents and express themselves artistically based on a common theme. Each year, students in Grades Pre-K through 12 are recognized for bringing that theme to life through dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography and visual arts. This year the theme was “Within Reach”.
The winners of this program at the school level include the following: Mahima Bandi (Film Production), Vaibhavi Rai (Dance Choreography), Sahisnu Santhosh (Photography), Clay Fitzgerald (Music Composition), Prisha Suresh (Visual Arts), Allison Skupienski (Literature), Risha Dinesh (Visual Arts), Sejal Butala (Visual Arts), and Skylar Skupienski (Music Composition).”
