Rockaway River Cleanup to take place on Saturday, August 5

PARSIPPANY — The Rockaway River Cleanup will take place on Saturday, August 5, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.  The group will meet on River Drive in Lake Hiawatha across from the Lake Hiawatha Swim Club.

If you should need further information, please call 973-263-7273.

Driver killed in Route 280 crash in Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — A 37-year-old woman from Bayonne was killed Tuesday afternoon after her vehicle veered off Route 280 and struck several trees, state police said. Nicole Nawrocki was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, which was reported at 3:14 p.m. State police provided her name Wednesday. An investigation into the crash is ongoing. Nawrocki…

“Radio Nashville” to perform at tonight’s Summer Concert Series

PARSIPPANY — Radio Nashville will perform on Thursday, July 27 at 7:30 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 1839 Route 46 East at Vail Road.

Every Country Song tells a Story, and Radio Nashville does just that, with a Show that’s One Big Party. Covering the Best Modern Country Music from the North of Nashville.

A large majority of live music fans are listening to modern, pop country music, and Radio Nashville has the look and sound down pat. Performing the top modern country hits from Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Lady Antebellum, The Band Perry, Luke Bryan, and Kenny Chesney, just to name a few, plus they play your favorite Country classics as well.

Radio Nashville brings something new to the market and pulls a new and emerging demographic to the venue.

Update: Dog found on Littleton Road and Route 10

PARSIPPANY — The original story appeared on Parsippany Focus on July 9. The story was read by over 35,000 people, shared over 120 times (that we can track) and still no one came forward to claim this beautiful dog. She has been living in East Brunswick with a stay at home senior that has plenty of time to shower her with affection.

The person who brought this dog into her home said “We had no choice but to name her Sweetie, because she is such a love! She’s such a sweetie and a good companion for the new owner, who decided to keep her.”

They took her for grooming and to the vet and she is in great heath. She is not spayed and is about six years old.

The dog did have a microchip, but it was not registered. Her markings make her look sad but her tail wags nonstop. She loves playing catch and is very affectionate.

Parsippany Focus has been in touch with the new owners to make sure she was being kept and had a new home.  We are very happy with the outcome of this story.

The new owner had no choice but to name her Sweetie, because she is such a love.
This is a picture taken of “Sweetie” back on July 9 when she was found roaming around on Route 10 and Littleton Road. She now has a loving home.

Parsippany woman pulled out of Hudson River

PARSIPPANY — Officer Tyler Soto of the Hoboken Police Department’s Waterfront and Parks Unit helped rescue an unidentified woman in the Hudson River, at approximately 4:00 p.m. Monday, July 24, according to a police press release.

Soto was flagged down in Sinatra Park along the waterfront and was told a woman was in the water. Soto located the woman in the water a short distance off of the rocks at Sixth and Sinatra Drive. Sergeant Keith Rotondi and Officer Libon Schelmety got a water bag and rope to Soto, who went into the water and pulled the woman back to shore.

Those officers, with the assistance of Officer Joe Lucignano and Stevens Police Officer Enrico Gnassi, began life saving measures that ultimately helped resuscitate her. The woman was transported to CarePoint Hoboken University Hospital.

The woman is being treated at Hoboken University Medical Center.

Police reported the 34 year old woman was from Parsippany and have since reunited her family with her.

“This was a tremendous life save by Officer Tyler Soto who was on patrol along the waterfront and acted quickly and proficiently and put his own life at risk,” said Hoboken Police Chief Ken Ferrante.

Soto is a second year officer, who is in training in the Waterfront Unit. Soto sustained minor injuries to his right hand and wrist during the rescue.

The woman was described as a Hispanic female, 34, with dark hair and a thin build. She is approximately 5’4”. She has two rings, one on her left index finger, silver with gold trim, and a second on her right middle finger which is a silver colored ring with a small design. She was wearing a black blouse with white polka dots and black stretch pants. A black key fob with a silver Honda emblem was found at the scene as was the woman’s white, mesh shoes with gold trim.

Anyone who has any information regarding this scene or the victim, contact the Hoboken Police Detective Bureau at (201) 420-2110 or 420-5101 or the Hoboken Police Front Desk at (201) 420-2131.

Kiwanis Club donates $5,000 to Parsippany Library’s “Build a Better World” program

PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation and the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International Foundation presented a grant of $5,000 to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library. 

The money is going to be used to support the 2017 Summer Reading program, “Build a Better World.”  

The Parsippany Library System plans to “build a better world”  by improving the technology skills of children and teens, to enable them to become productive citizens. Coding, robotics, and STEAM skills are becoming the most in demand skills of those entering the work force.

With the increased  use of technology in all areas of our lives it is vital that all of our students have access to opportunities to learn and develop these skills.

Karen O’Malley said “The Kiva Planks have been used to creatively engineer wooden structures by all ages from preschoolers to parents at the Lake Hiawatha Branch Children’s Department. Anyone that uses them to build either their own designed structure or one from the sample booklet included, is very proud of what they built!”

“The Chromebooks being purchased will be used to teach basic to advanced computer coding skills. There are several game based programs we will be using to teach these skills along with the LEGO Mindstorm Robotics kits purchased through this grant. We are looking forward to guiding children in small group coding activities develop problem solving skills, brainstorming, technology skills, math skills, and more! We could not thank the Kiwanis Club enough for helping us help Parsippany children advance,” said Karen.

 “I am so proud of the support our Kiwanis Club has given to this Library project.  We were successful in getting a $2500 grant from the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International Foundation that we were able to match from our own fundraising efforts throughout the year.  If you haven’t been to your local Parsippany library this summer, I urge you to check out the ‘Build A Better World” project.  It’s fascinating!”  said Connie Keller, the KCGP Foundation President.

She continued “By supporting this program at the Parsippany Library, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is following the motto of Kiwanis… ‘Changing the world one child, one community at a time.’”

“The children’s department of the Parsippany Public Library has amazing technology purchased with a grant from the Kiwanis Club. The library was able to add more iPods and Ipads to the collection.  These additional tools allowed more children to use the Sphero SPRK robotic spheres.  The Sphero SPRK is app-enabled so it is essential to have a device for each child.  Over twenty-five students attended the Sphero coding sessions plus children at three of the local elementary schools were able to view and interact with the Spheros during summer reading outreach visits. Keva planks were purchased with the grant funds.  Keva planks are used as part of Build It stations that are set up in the children’s room. It is amazing to see the structures that students have created,” said Melissa Okerblom.

She continued “Students in grades K-2 are part of a Storytime Coding group at the library.  They use Scratch to create animated stories in the technology lab at the library.  This group meets twice a week and multiple sessions for older students are planned for the fall. More classes can be offered with the new devices. The Maker Camp begins on August 14.  Children will use Lego Mindstorms EV3 in the technology lab.”

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library is located at 449 Halsey Road. The Lake Hiawatha branch is located at 68 Nokomis Avenue, and the Mount Tabor branch is located at 31 Trinity Park.

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

Drayer Physical Therapy holds Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Open House

PARSIPPANY — Drayer Physical Therapy Institute opened an outpatient center at 131 New Road, its third in the Garden State.

Joining in the ribbon cutting were Parsippany-Troy Hills Vice President Robert Peluso and Regional Vice President Drayer Physical Therapy, Kris Bouslough, Center Manager Jonathan Zaid and employees, friends and customers. Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill and Board Members Rick Wasserman and Ildiko Peluso also attended the open house and ribbon cutting.

Located at 131 New Road, Suite 4, in the Shoppes on New Road complex, the center operates from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. weekdays with Saturday appointments available. The center can be reached at (973) 396-8728.

Physical therapist Jonathan Zaid is the center manager. Kris Bouslough is the center’s regional vice president.

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

She continued “You can tell he means it when he says call or text me anytime. A couple of weeks ago, I had severe pain on a Sunday afternoon. My roommate texted Jonathan and he immediately called to speak with me. I advised him of my symptoms and he walked me through different exercises until the pain calmed down. He even checked on me the next day. Drayer is a special kind of place. I have been to a number of physical therapy facilities over the years but have never been to a place like this. The employees truly care and make a difference! I strongly recommend Drayer Physical Therapy.”

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

Drayer’s other New Jersey centers are in Flanders and Sparta. Overall, Hummelstown, Pa.-based Drayer (click here for website) owns or manages approximately 150 centers in 15 states.

Drayer provides rehabilitation services with a physician’s referral, offering 24-hour access to care.

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

EdTechTeam Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools holds Google Summit

PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, July 26 and Thursday, July 27 over 300 administrators and teachers from all over New Jersey converged at Parsippany Hills High Schools to learn from Google Certified Teachers, Google Apps for Education Certified Trainers, practicing administrators, and solution providers, the newest ways to engage K-12 students in learning and integrating technology.

PHHS volunteers with Superintendent Dr. Barbara Sargent

The event allows teachers to share meaningful and practical ways to utilize a variety of Google Apps and other online tools.

“We’re excited to be working with the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools,” Ed Tech Team’s Chief Operating Officer Chris Bell said. “Since July 2012, we have produced more than 110 of these summits and educators all around the world have experienced a “mind blowing,” “life changing,” and “downright fun” event often evaluated as “the best professional development of my career.”

The Summit brings together more than 150 of our own Parsippany K-12 secretaries, teachers, and district and site administrators who are voluntarily attending the summit. The Summit showcases ways to implement everything from individual lessons to school-wide technology programs as a way to build 21st Century skills in students while they learn academic subjects.  Workshop sessions include Google Expeditions, a way of virtually touring remote destinations, using Google Docs & Drive, Google Classroom, and “Google Maps – The Map is your Textbook.”

“This summit provides our own wonderful teachers and their colleagues in surrounding districts the opportunity to explore new and innovative ways to integrate technology in every classroom.  This includes helping students to develop critical social media skills, to properly vet online resources, and to develop a disciplined practice of managing or curating data,” Dr. Barbara Sargent, Parsippany-Troy Hills Superintendent of Schools said.

Scholarships available through state County Prosecutors Association

MORRIS COUNTY — Four separate scholarships are available for college, graduate and law school students under a program run by the County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey.

Each scholarship is a one-year grant of up to $3,500 and is paid directly to the recipient. Applicants must be New Jersey residents and must demonstrate financial need. The scholarships are annually awarded by the County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey, which is a non-profit corporation 

The Oscar W. Rittenhouse Memorial scholarship is designed for those who have been admitted to law school and who have interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor.

The Andrew K. Ruotolo Jr. Memorial Scholarship is open to individuals who have been accepted to law or graduate school. Applicants must show an interest in, and a commitment to, enhancing the rights and well-being of children through child advocacy programs.

The Harris Y. Cotton Memorial Scholarship is open to law school enrollees who have an interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor with an emphasis in domestic violence or hate crime prosecutions. 

The John H. Stamler Memorial Scholarship is designed for a sworn law enforcement officer seeking educational advancement on a college or graduate level to improve his, or her, effectiveness as an officer.

The application deadline is September 15 and applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision in October. Applications can be obtained by contacting Terri Eide at (609) 989-6309 or at teide@mercercounty.org. Applications are also available by clicking here.

 

Ameriprise Financial participates in “Staples Small Business Showcase”

PARSIPPANY — Daniel Lim, a Financial Advisor at Ameriprise Financial, participated in Staples Small Business Showcase on Wednesday, July 26.

Staples is located in the Arlington Shopping Center, 760 Route 46. Their store hours are Monday thru Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can reach them by calling (973) 541-0300.

“Staples Small Business Showcase” is a monthly feature for Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC) members.  Member business and area non-profit groups can contact Frank Cahill at (973) 402-6400 if they are interested in participating in this program.

Ameriprise Financial is located at 90 East Halsey Road; Suite 106. For more information regarding Ameriprise, click here. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but it suggested that you call ahead and make an appointment, as hours can vary.

Ameriprise is America’s leader in financial planning, and one of the largest diversified financial services firms in the U.S., with more than $750 billion in assets under management and administration.

For more information on Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, click here.

PACC is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents, and volunteers that provides education, information, and networking opportunities to the Parsippany Area. PACC works 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. They promote a healthy and more prosperous economic climate.

Multiple Route 46 Car Accident sends two to hospital

PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, July 19 at 6:50 p.m. Mr. Mohamm Mohammedshahbaz, 27, Lake Hiawatha, was turning left onto Route 46 west from Baldwin Road on a green turn arrow and Ms. Akhila Ponugoti, 30, Parsippany, was traveling east on Route 46 ran a red traffic light hitting Mr. Mohammedshahbaz’s vehicle in a T-bone collision.

Police Officer Jeffrey Williams investigated the accident and determined that Ms. Akhila Ponugoti was at fault and issued a summons for careless driving and failure to observe traffic signals.

The 2003 Honda Civic airbags also deployed.

Mr. Mohammedshahbaz was transported to  Morristown Medical Center and Ms. Ponugoti was transported to Saint Clare’s Health System.

Mr. Mohammedshahbaz was driving a 2003 Honda Civic and Ms. Ponugoti was driving a 2015 Nissan Altima.

Both vehicles were towed from the scene by Powdermill Towing.

Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery and Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department District 5 HazMat team were called to the scene to assist in the accident.

National Night Out to be held on Tuesday, August 1 at Mennen Sports Arena

Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Chief Louis Yuliano, Morris County Park Police Chief Gabriel DePetro with Parsippany Rescue and Recovery member Joseph Bellardino from a previous National Night Out

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County’s annual “National Night Out,” hosted by the Morris County Park Police and the Morris County Park Commission, returns to the Mennen Sports Arena in Morris Township on Tuesday, August 1, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with more FREE attractions.

Dozens of municipal, county, non-profit, and state agencies will participate and answer your questions.

The Morris County Park Police are once again offering the popular free Child ID Cards, an initiative launched in 2000 that registers more than 1,000 children annually.

Each year since 2007, the National Association of Town Watch has named Morris County’s National Night Out event a national award winner.

Explore police, fire, emergency, military, and rescue vehicles, such as motorcycles, ambulances, all-terrain vehicles, fire engines, and squad cars. Visit the horses of the Morris County Park Police’s award-winning Mounted Equestrian Unit. Dance the night away with a DJ, and enjoy live performances.

“For the past seven years, the Morris County ‘National Night Out’ has received national recognition because it offers a comprehensive array of participating agencies to educate the public on available community services,” said Morris County Park Police Chief Gabe DiPietro.

DiPietro and the Morris County Park Police ensure public safety throughout Morris County, and provide assistance to other area agencies. The department currently patrols park facilities with cars, motorcycles, bicycles, all-terrain vehicles, and horses.

For more information click here or contact Park Police at (973) 326-7632.

 

Parsippany Police promotes Brian Dowd to Captain

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Paul Philipps promoted Brian Dowd from the rank of Lieutenant to the rank of Captain during a ceremony at Parsippany Municipal Building on Monday, July 24.

Captain Dowd, a Parsippany native, has been an officer in town for nineteen years. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Seton Hall in Administration of Justice and is also a graduate of the NJ State Association of Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership Program. He has received multiple awards and accommodations throughout his career, which include multiple Life Saving Awards, Exceptional Duty Awards, and Command Citations.

Dowd previously served in the Patrol Division and Investigative Division.

While in the Investigative Division he was the Youth Services Section Commander, where he supervised the Juvenile Detectives/School Resource Officers and oversaw the Police Explorers program reinstituted by Mayor Barberio.

His new assignment will be commanding the Support Services Division where he will continue to also serve as the Director of School Security.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Paul Philipps, Captain Brian Dowd and Mayor James Barberio

Solix Announces Acquisition of Sivic Solutions Group

PARSIPPANY — Solix, Inc., a provider of program and process management, regulatory compliance and customer care services for businesses and government agencies throughout the United States, today announced the addition of several new services and the expansion of its market footprint through the acquisition of Sivic Solutions Group, LLC (SSG).

The combined expertise and business solutions, from two of the most experienced providers of specialized services for complex enrollment-based programs, offers customers a powerful partner with a highly successful suite of solutions that are supported by unparalleled personalized customer attention.

Headquartered in Utica, New York with staff across the country, SSG’s offerings include consulting, process management and systems services to state and county health and human services agencies, juvenile justice agencies and school districts across the country. SSG also provides financial management, cost allocation consulting, and is a leader in the implementation of large complex statewide systems to assist state and local agencies in the recovery of funds from federal programs. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Solix, Inc., SSG will continue to be headquartered in Utica.

Jack Miller, Solix President and CEO

“The synergies between our solutions and the collective experience and knowledge of our staffs offer government agencies, programs and businesses a source of robust support and extraordinary level of service,” said Jack Miller, Solix President and CEO. “Customized service and in-depth understanding of our customers’ needs and challenges are hallmarks of Solix. Sivic shares these traits and will play an important role as we add new products and services that will deliver even greater value in the market.”

“We are very excited about joining Solix and what this means for our customers with future offerings as we enhance and develop services,” said Siva Kakuturi, SSG President and CEO. “Solix shares the same approach to serving customers as Sivic and is enthusiastic about our vision moving forward. While there will be no changes or disruptions for our customers, our collaboration with Solix will enable us to grow and offer additional services to our customers.”

Solix, located at 30 Lanidex Plaza, with operations in several states including Texas and Illinois, provides business process outsourcing, program management including eligibility determination, and customer care services for all levels of government agencies as well as utilities, health insurers and some of the largest telecoms in the nation. Solix helps customers run more efficient programs, qualify applicants faster with greater accuracy, and enable more responsive customer communications for an enhanced experience.

Morris County Young Republicans held successful meeting

BOONTON — The Morris County Young Republicans (MCYP) recently held their July Social at the Boonton Station, 202 Myrtle Avenue.

Special Speaker/Sponsor was Freeholder Director Doug Cabana. Also speaking at the event was Morristown At-Large Council Candidate Celeste Kaitsa.

In addition to the speakers, MCYR President Joe Bock presented Tia Fritz, “Woman of the Year Award” from New Jersey Young Republican Federation. Also Morris County Young Republican was honored to receive awards for Man of the Year (Mike Crispi) and Event of the Year (Governors Forum in Rockaway).

Their next meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. at Black River Barn, 1178 Route 10 West, Randolph. Morris County Freeholder Candidate Heather Darling will be their guest speaker.

MCYR President Joe Bock presents Tia Fritz, “Woman of the Year Award” from New Jersey Young Republican Federation
MCYR Chair Joe Bock, Vice Chair Sydney Ugalde and Freeholder Director Doug Cabana
Morristown At-Large Council Candidate Celeste Kaitsa
The room was packed with members, guests and elected officials
Waitress Justyna Frankiewicz provided  professional service at Station House

The Morris County Young Republicans is a chapter within the New Jersey Young Republican Federation. They are one of the most active Young Republican clubs in the State of New Jersey. In 2016, they were proud to receive the NJYRF’s Award for “Club of the Year.”  With increased membership and fundraising this past year, including for charity, the Young Republicans take pride in improving their community and working on key races for Republicans in 2017.

Several members and former members have run for and won elected office. They continue to support fellow Young Republicans in their campaigns and making a difference.

The Morris County Young Republicans is determined to grow their membership to build strong Republican networks in every one of our municipalities. They encourage you to join the club, by donating yearly dues of just $35.00. You may bring a check made payable to “Morris County Young Republicans” to the next meeting, or mail a check to our office at 26 Schuyler Place, Morristown, New Jersey 07960. You may also pay online by credit card by clicking here.   Membership dues allow the group to survive and to run monthly events. For club voting rights, members must be registered Republicans between ages 18-40 living in Morris County.  However, they are delighted to have any of our other friends who are outside of those qualifications to join as Associate Members, and to attend all of our events.

The current leadership of MCYP is Chairman Joseph Bock, Esq., Boonton; Vice Chairman Sydney Ugalde, Randolph; Secretary Michael Crispi, Hanover; Treasurer Julie Lapatka, CPA, Boonton Township; General Counsel Bill Delaney, Esq., Morristown and Joseph Franck, Esq., Parsippany; State Committeeman Anthony Somma, Dover; State Committeewoman Tia-Lynn Fritze, Roxbury; and Immediate Past Chair William Felegi, Jefferson.

For more information about The Morris County Young Republicans, click here.

Kiwanis Club prepares dinner for Homeless Solutions

PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany once again cooked at Homeless Solutions. Every month members of the Kiwanis volunteer to prepare a delicious fresh cooked meal.

This month, Frank Cahill, Nicolas Limanov and Dr. Patrick Selimo prepared dinner. President-elect Frank Cahill started his Saturday morning by shopping for food, which is paid for by Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

The group of volunteers meet at Homeless Solutions to start preparing dinner for the guests in the transitional housing program.  The group prepared a fresh fruit salad, tossed salad with numerous dressings, baked ziti with meatballs and rolls and served vanilla cheesecake for dessert. They also served iced tea and coffee. Other volunteer groups such as St. Ann’s Church prepares dinner for the shelter on other days of the month. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has been providing meals to Homeless Solutions for the past eleven years.

The mission of Homeless Solutions is to offer shelter, services, and supportive housing to homeless and low-income people. For the homeless and working poor in our community, hope begins at Homeless Solutions, Inc.  Homeless Solutions is a private, non-profit organization, helping those in need for past 30 years. Homeless Solutions provides shelter for 25 homeless men, 10 homeless women, 10 families and 20 Safe Haven guests. Our guests receive services including case management, transportation to work and necessary appointments, money management and employment assistance, housing search assistance and daily living skills training. Referral services for counseling, substance abuse intervention, and prevention are also provided.

Homeless Solutions, Inc. employs 49 staff, 36 full time and 13 part time. Homeless Solutions, Inc. is governed by a Board of Trustees and is incorporated as a non-profit organization in the State of New Jersey.

By supporting HSI through financial donations or volunteering, they are making a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need in our community. For more information on Homeless Solutions, click here.

Three Reason to Donate to Homeless Solutions

When you donate to Homeless Solutions, you make a tangible difference in the life of someone in need in our community.  Your donations –

  • Buy milk for children living in shelter.
  • Pay for childcare so a single parent can work.
  • Pay for gas for shelter vans that take guests to public transportation to get to work and to medical appointments.

Click here to make a donation to Homeless Solutions.

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46, Parsippany on Thursday at 7:15 a.m. For more information, click here.

Wegmans officially open; lines were wrapped around the building

HANOVER — It’s official. Wegmans Food Store opened on Sunday, July 23 at 7:00 a.m. with customers waiting in line since Saturday evening 9:00 p.m. By 6:45 a.m. the line was wrapped around the building waiting to enter the 113,000 square foot store. The new Hanover store carries over 65,000 individual products, with more than 3,000 organic items, 700 produce offerings, 300 imported and domestic cheeses – including Wegmans’ own cave-aged cheeses – a wide array of international ingredients, and whole fish delivered daily and cut to order. Store hours are 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 Midnight, seven days a week.

Gillian Raye, Wantage, and Susan Davis, Wharton, parked their RV in the Wegmans parking lot on Saturday evening, and waited for the new store to open its doors. Raye said “I been waiting for months to be able to shop at Wegmans. I never been inside a Wegmans store, but I heard and read so many great things about the supermarket, I wanted to be one of the first shoppers here.”

“Although she won’t be a regular shopper because she resides about an hour away, she will make monthly trips here to stock up, Her friend, Susan Davis, on the other hand, will make Wegmans part of her shopping routine,” said Raye.

Vanessa Montgomery was the first Parsippany resident to enter the store

Back a little further in line, customer number 6, was Vanessa Montgomery, who lives in the Powdermill Section of Parsippany, stated this will be her new shopping place. “I am so excited that Wegmans opened within five minutes of my home, I will be here all the time. It feels like a Hollywood premiere. The prices are great, their app is so easy to use. The employees are wonderful, everyone greeted me with a smile. I previously would shop at Stop and Shop for quick items, but most of my shopping was done at ShopRite. Now it will be only Wegmans. I can stop at the store on my way home to pick up one item or do my weekly shopping. I am so excited,” said Vanessa.

Store Manager Tim Lockwood said “opening a brand-new Wegmans Food Market in Hanover is a dream come true.” The store located near the intersection of I-287 and Route 10, is the family-owned company’s 93rd store overall, eighth in New Jersey, and the first to open this year.

“The opportunity to introduce a whole new way of shopping to this community is exhilarating,” he says. “When you add to that the chance to build a new team and instill the Wegmans values in nearly 500 employees, you’ve reached the pinnacle of your career.”

Store Manager Tim Lockwood

Lockwood himself has worked at Wegmans for 28 years and looks upon his new assignment as a fresh chance to give back. Wegmans’ core value for making a difference in every community it serves began more than a year ago.

Early on, the store’s management began establishing community partnerships, supporting local agencies like the Interfaith Food Pantry and the United Way, awarding honorary scholarships to local students in a nod to the company’s employee scholarship program, and getting to know the neighborhood by attending and sponsoring events.

The Burger Bar is Wegmans’ fast, fresh, and flavorful restaurant within the Market Cafe. The menu developed by Wegmans Chefs and made fresh to order.

The new Hanover store is 113,000 square feet, has a light and airy feel, an open floor plan on a single level, and a generous seating area in the Market Café, with space for more than 300 diners indoors and out. The store also features one of Wegmans’ popular restaurant concepts, The Burger Bar. The Burger Car is Wegman’s fast, fresh, and flavorful restaurant within the Market Cafe. The menu, developed by their own chefs and made fresh to order, offers the best burgers, salads, sandwiches, soups, sides, specialty milkshakes, and kids’ meals.

15,000 square foot wine, beer and spirits shop

A 15,000 sq. ft. wine, beer, and spirits shop leased to a third-party owner in an adjoining space offers the convenience of one-stop shopping for beverage pairings to complement meals.

Lockwood’s goal is “to have all my people share in our success. I’ve always strived to work together not just to set goals, but to achieve them and then to celebrate the accomplishment.” Employees have spent the last several months training and preparing for one goal: to dazzle customers with incredible service, quality, selection, and low prices.

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. is a 93-store supermarket chain with stores inNew Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, and Massachusetts. The family-owned company, recognized as an industry leader and innovator, celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016. Wegmans has been named one of the ‘100 Best Companies to Work For’ by FORTUNE magazine for 20 consecutive years, ranking #2 in 2017.

Mack-Cali Realty Corporation owners of the property located in the Mack-Cali Business Campus also signed a lease with 24 Hour Fitness. 24 Hour Fitness will join anchor tenant Wegmans and will occupy approximately 40,000 square feet.

“Mack-Cali is thrilled about bringing 24 Hour Fitness to the Parsippany/Hanover area. 24 Hour Fitness will join Wegmans as key amenities not only for our office tenants and residents in the area but also the entire community. Adding amenities like 24 Hour Fitness and Wegmans are at the core of Mack-Cali’s commitment to its tenants and the markets in which we are a part of,” said Michael J. DeMarco, Mack-Cali Chief Executive Officer.

In 2013, Hanover Planning Board approved a 113,000 square-foot Wegmans supermarket along with three restaurant buildings, a bank building and parking for 1,178 cars at Sylvan Way and Ridgedale Avenue located on the northern side of Route 10 across from Ridgedale on what is was vacant wooded land.

The site will use water and sewer from Parsippany-Troy Hills for the property, under an agreement that dates back some 25 years, and was renewed by the Township Council in 2013.

The site is approximately 4.5 miles from the approved Whole Foods site in the Waterview Marketplace, on Waterview Boulevard and Route 46, which they broke ground earlier this month. Whole Foods Market that will occupy 48,000 square feet, which is less than half the size of new Hanover location.

Nikki Long and Dana Marxen graduate from University of Rhode Island

Nikki Long

PARSIPPANY — At the University of Rhode Island’s 131st Commencement on Saturday and Sunday, May 20-21, 2017, about 2,600 undergraduate and 650 graduate students became the University’s newest alumni.

Nikki Mary Long received a Bachelor of Arts, Psychology Summa Cum Laude. She is also a 2013 graduate of Parsippany Hills High School.

Dana M. Marxen received a Bachelor of Science, Industrial and Systems Engineering Magna Cum Laude. She is also a 2013 graduate of Parsippany Hills High School.

Dana M. Marxen

Students who received the honor summa cum laude graduated with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.7; students who received the honor of magna cum laude graduated with a GPA of at least 3.50; and students who received the honor of cum laude graduated with a GPA of at least 3.3.

The University of Rhode Island’s pioneering research extends the University’s influence well beyond its coastal borders, while its unique interdisciplinary courses provide its 16,637 undergraduate and graduate students with global opportunities in an intimate environment.

In May 2017, more than 2,600 undergraduate and about 650 graduate students graduated from the University. The University now has more than 122,500 alumni worldwide.

United Way of Northern New Jersey Kicks Off School Supplies Drive

MORRISTOWN — United Way of Northern New Jersey is seeking help from volunteers and donations of new school supplies for its annual United Way Tools for School drive, allowing children to start the new school year with the basic tools needed for success in school.

The drive will benefit more than 9,500 elementary and middle school children of ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and families in poverty throughout the northern New Jersey region.

United Way Tools for School seeks to lessen the strain on already strapped household budgets. Last year, on average, families with children in K-12 in the United States spent $108 on school supplies such as backpacks, notebooks and pencils, according to the National Retail Federation. That does not include electronics, clothing and accessories.

“ALICE families that are working hard but can’t keep up with the high cost of living are faced with having to choose between buying school supplies or paying for basic bills,” United Way Senior Vice President Kiran Gaudioso said. “Together, we can help ease this financial struggle and give students the basics to start off the school year on the right track.”

United Way is making it easier to make donations by partnering with YouGiveGoods.com again, which allows donors to make an online purchase of supplies that will be delivered automatically to United Way. Donations can be made by clicking here.

In addition, donations will be accepted throughout the five-county region of Morris, Suburban Essex, Somerset, Sussex and Warren counties. The following is a list of drop-off locations by county:    

  • Morris County: On Tuesday, August 15, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., donations can be dropped off at the Morris County Library, 30 Hanover Way, Whippany.
  • Somerset County: On Monday, August 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., donations can be dropped off at United Reformed Church, 100 West Main St., Somerville.
  • *Suburban Essex County: on Monday, August 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., donations can be dropped off at the United Way office, 60 South Fullerton Ave., Montclair.
  • Sussex County: On Friday, August 25, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., donations can be dropped off at the United Way office, 2 Spring Street, Newton.
  • Warren County: On Thursday, August 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 12 Noon, donations can be dropped off at Taylor Street School, 16/24 Taylor Street, Washington.

Based on the needs expressed by local educators, United Way is collecting the following school supplies: backpacks, lunch boxes, binders, three-ring notebooks, book covers, filler paper, pocket folders, composition and spiral notebooks, index cards, calculators, pencils, pencil cases, pencil sharpeners, erasers, pens, highlighters, crayons, markers, colored pencils, construction paper, glue, tape, rulers, dry erase markers, and scissors. In addition, school nurses have asked for personal care items such as toothbrushes, deodorant, Band-Aids, and kindergarten and first grade-aged children’s underwear and socks. Gift cards that can be used to purchase items such as shoes and clothing are also appreciated. 

Last year, with the help of 229 volunteers, supplies valued at $104,000 were collected and distributed to 60 elementary and middle schools and nine nonprofit agencies throughout the northern New Jersey region. 

For more information about making donations, holding a United Way Tools for School drive, or to volunteer with sorting supplies, click here, email Lisa.Galonardo@UnitedWayNNJ.org or call (973) 993-1160, ext. 503.

About United Way of Northern New Jersey
United Way of Northern New Jersey is a nonprofit organization working to improve people’s lives and strengthen communities by focusing on Education, Income, and Health.  These are the building blocks for a good life – a quality education that leads to a stable job; the tools needed to achieve financial stability; and good health.  We lead caring communities to create long-lasting changes that transform people’s lives.  Together, united, we can inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow. United Way of Northern New Jersey serves Morris, Somerset, Sussex, and Warren counties as well as portions of suburban Essex County, including the Caldwells, Cedar Grove, Essex Fells, Fairfield, Glen Ridge, Livingston, Millburn-Short Hills, Montclair, Roseland, and Verona.  Give.  Advocate.  Volunteer.  LIVE UNITED.  To learn more, call (973) 993-1160 or click here.

Dr. Missak Haigentz Appointed Chief of Hematology and Oncology

Missak Haigentz, MD

MORRISTOWN — Nationally renowned head and neck and lung cancer researcher Missak Haigentz, MD, has joined Atlantic Health System Cancer Care as chief of hematology and oncology at Morristown Medical Center and medical director of Atlantic Hematology and Oncology for Atlantic Medical Group at the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center.

Dr. Haigentz, a cancer physician who has extensive expertise in the design and implementation of innovative clinical trials to improve the lives of cancer patients, was the lead or co-author of major studies presented at the recent annual scientific meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). ASCO is the world’s leading professional organization for physicians caring for people with cancer.

“Dr. Haigentz is a leader in head and neck cancer research, treatment and education,” said Eric Whitman, MD, medical director, Atlantic Health System Cancer Care. “We are proud that he has chosen to join our Cancer Care team.  His appointment enhances Atlantic Health System’s capabilities in clinical trials for head and neck cancers, as well as for lung cancer. He also brings with him extensive experience in using the most innovative, targeted cancer treatments and immunotherapy, which we will now be able to offer to our patients.”

Dr. Haigentz joins Atlantic Health System from the National Cancer Institute-designated Albert Einstein Cancer Center in New York City, where he served as director of the clinical trials office and led several national and multicenter trials of cancer drugs.  He most recently held the academic rank of professor of medicine (oncology) and otorhinolaryngology – head and neck surgery at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, with which the Albert Einstein Cancer Center is affiliated.

“Atlantic Health System is known for its strong leadership commitment to innovation, clinical research, patient-centered care, and to bringing the latest treatments to cancer patients,” said Dr. Haigentz.  “Therefore, as a longtime New Jersey resident, AHS Cancer Care was the natural choice for me in terms of making an impact on patients’ treatment outcomes in my community.  As medical director of Atlantic Hematology and Oncology, my goal is to provide subspecialty-specific cancer care at an academic level, with access to clinical trials and breakthrough medications, while preserving the comfort of compassionate and individualized attention patients and families need and deserve, and to collaborate with outstanding multidisciplinary specialists in the Atlantic Health System Cancer Care team in providing the most innovative and effective therapeutic options.”

Recently returned from the ASCO meeting, Dr. Haigentz’s studies reported there covered a variety of cancer treatments and treatment related issues, including: the first analysis of patient survival data from a multicenter Phase III study of a drug combination that included bevacizumab (Avastin®) for people with advanced head and neck cancer; an early stage study of whether certain cancer patients who are living with HIV can tolerate a combination treatment of paclitaxel (Taxol®) and carboplatin (Paraplatin®); whether there were racial/ethnic disparities in lung cancer patient treatment with immunotherapies; and a long-term analysis of the risks and benefits of Phase I clinical trials.