MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon said today:
“In light of the recent mail bombing attempts, and following the horrific acts of murder and terrorism in Pittsburgh, I have asked that we redouble our efforts at the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in support of the strong efforts of our local police chiefs who are doing the same.”
and
“We have been continually patrolling houses of worship and points of our critical infrastructure since the time I entered office, last week, and again yesterday, I bolstered those efforts to reassure our neighbors in the Jewish Community. We have added visits by Sheriff’s Officers to our normal patrols of these locations. An attack on any one religion, culture or race, is an attack on us all.”
PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, October 27 at approximately 2:29 p.m. the Parsippany Police Department’s Communication Center received a call reporting a gas leak located at the loading docks of the Hilton Hotel, 1 Hilton Court.
Upon the arrival of the responding Police and Fire personnel, they were advised that an event was currently taking place at the hotel and approximately 3,000 guests were present.
The popular Chiller Theatre Expo is horror-themed is being held at the hotel. This weekend’s show, which kicked off Friday and is scheduled to last through Sunday, include headliners such as Robert Wagner & Jill St. John, Stefanie Powers, Loretta Swit, Barbara Eden, “L.A. Law,” “Good Times,” and “The Love Boat” cast reunions, T.K. Carter, Kim Fields, Pauly Shore and many more.
An immediate evacuation of the loading dock area and ballroom was conducted.
During the evacuation, the Parsippany Police Department’s Communication Center received a phone call from an employee at the Hilton Hotel front desk.
The employee reported that an unknown suspect had just phoned in a bomb threat to them. An immediate evacuation of the entire structure was ordered, which includes Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and Hampton Inn Hotel, along with a request for mutual aid due to the number of guests present.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit and Bomb Squad responded to the scene, along with members of the New Jersey State Police K-9 Unit. A check of the interior and exterior of the structure was completed and no devices were located.
At approximately 6:00 p.m. all guests and vendors were allowed back into the structure.
The gas leak was repaired and checked by New Jersey Natural Gas personnel.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief of Police Andrew Miller would like to thank all of the participating agencies:
Morris County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit and Bomb Squad
Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations
Hanover Police Department
Morristown Police Department
Morris County Park Police
Morris Township Police Department
Morris Plains Police Department
Denville Police Department
New Jersey State Police
Parsippany Fire Prevention
Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department District 1
Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department District 2
Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Department District 3
Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department District 6
Parsippany Office of Emergency Management
Chiller Theater Expo is one of the most popular and longest-running horror conventions in the country. It focuses on horror but including pop culture as a whole and it is in its 28th year. This editions guest list included include Robert Wagner, Jill St. John, Stefanie Powers, Barbara Eden, T.K. Carter, Kim Fields, Pauly Shore, pro wrestlers Bob Backlund and Paul Orndorff, Bai Ling, P.J. Soles, Ken Foree, Ice-T and Coco, Carmen Elecktra, Gumby, artist Ed Pepka, and cast reunions from shows like L.A. Law, Good Times, and The Love Boat, and films like Evil Dead, Day of the Dead, and more. It has also been featured on the Travel Channel on shows like Toy Hunter and more.
PARSIPPANY — Cushman & Wakefield professionals from four Cushman & Wakefield service lines — Investment Sales, Finance, Leasing and Asset Management — worked in unison to structure the recent sale/leaseback of PNY Technologies’ Global Headquarters at 100 Jefferson Road.
A joint venture of Turnbridge Equities, a New York City-based, privately held full-service real estate investment and development firm, and Harbor Group International, LLC (HGI), purchased the 540,103-square-foot property from PNY Technologies.
PNY Technologies leased back approximately 25 percent of the building on a long-term basis, leaving 400,000 square feet of industrial space for Turnbridge Equities to rent. This includes 200,000 square feet of 38-foot clear height, high-cube space – a distinguishing attribute in the local market. Located at the intersection of interstates 80 and 287, 100 Jefferson Road sits on nearly 36 acres just minutes from routes 10, 46 and 202, and the Morristown CBD.
Members of Cushman & Wakefield’s New Jersey capital markets team – including Gary Gabriel, Kyle Schmidt, Andrew Merin, David Bernhaut, Brian Whitmer and Ryan Larkin – represented the seller and procured the buyer in the transaction. John Alascio, Sridhar Vankayala, Mark Ehlinger, Noble Carpenter III and Zachary Kraft from Cushman & Wakefield’s Equity Debt & Structured Finance group arranged acquisition financing. Additional support was provided by New Jersey industrial leasing experts Jason Goldman and Andrew Siemsen, and property management specialists Mike Nevins, Sam Collison, Cliff Mortara and Mike Baldino.
“Turnbridge was drawn by the property’s location and functionality, and jumped on the lease-up opportunity and chance to create a new industrial offering in one of the country’s most sought-after distribution markets,” Gabriel noted. “This organization has a long track record of successful investments, and the depth of its expertise and professionalism was clear in the 100 Jefferson Road transaction from start to finish.”
PNY Technologies spent many years and a considerable amount of capital improving the building after purchasing it from Pfizer. The property’s location – 30 minutes from New York City, Newark Liberty International Airport, and the Port of NY/NJ – also contributed to strong interest among investors and users. “The quality of this asset and strong institutional sponsorship led to a competitive bidding process and excellent terms put forth by lender Granite Point Mortgage Trust, Inc.,” Alascio said. “Ultimately, Turnbridge was able to take advantage of a great opportunity in a market offering outstanding industrial fundamentals.”
Turnbridge and HGI immediately commenced a $4.5 million capital improvement program that will introduce Class A warehouse space in an attractive, mixed-use campus environment. The project – for which Cushman & Wakefield Asset Services is providing both property management and construction management services – will include new parking and loading areas, new office space and building entrances and new mechanical systems, among other upgrades. Cushman & Wakefield’s Jason Goldman and Andrew Siemsen have been retained as leasing agents for 100 Jefferson Road and are representing Turnbridge and HGI in leasing the vacant space.
“Turnbridge is creating a one-of-a-kind opportunity in the immediate market,” Siemsen commented. “This building represents one of the largest warehouse/distribution availabilities in the Northern New Jersey market, offering accessibility to more than 11 million people within a one-hour drive, making it ideal for last-mile distribution.” With a responsive, established ownership and the promise of modern functionality, it is well positioned for leasing success.”
Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global real estate services firm that delivers exceptional value by putting ideas into action for real estate occupiers and owners. Cushman & Wakefield is among the largest real estate services firms with 48,000 employees in approximately 400 offices and 70 countries. In 2017, the firm had revenue of $6.9 billion across core services of property, facilities and project management, leasing, capital markets, valuation and other services. To learn more click here.
PARSIPPANY — Patrol Officer J. Garza responded to the Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association Club House on Lake Shore Drive at 5:20 p.m. on Wednesday, October 24 for a reported hit and run motor vehicle crash.
Upon his arrival, he was advised by the victim that his 2011 Toyota Avalon was backed into twice by a vehicle that fled the scene. A witness also provided Officer Garza with the description of the driver, along with the license plate of the vehicle.
A short time later, while investigating another incident, he located the 2008 Subaru Legacy and the driver, Lani Michalski, 39, Parsippany.
After a brief investigation, she was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated and transported to police headquarters for processing. While there, she was charged with Driving While Intoxicated; Refusal to Consent to Breath Samples; Revocation for Refusal to Submit to Breath Test; Reckless Driving; Leaving the Scene of a Crash and Failure to Report a Motor Vehicle Crash.
She was released on her own recognizance pending her 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.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Investigations Stephen F. Wilson, Jr., New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, and Rockaway Borough Police Chief Conrad Pepperman announce the arrest of three males in connection with a home invasion robbery that occurred on the evening of October 21, in Victory Gardens.
Carlos Rodriguez, 22, with a last known address in Victory Gardens; Victor Hernandez, 19, with a last known address in Rockaway Borough; and Marlon Martinez, 23, also with a last known address in Rockaway Borough, have each been charged with first degree Robbery, second degree Burglary, and second degree Conspiracy to commit Robbery.
An additional charge of third degree Terroristic Threats was also authorized against Rodriguez. It is alleged that on the evening of October 21, 2018, Rodriguez, Hernandez, and Martinez entered a residence located in Victory Gardens through a closed, but unlocked, front door.
The residence was occupied by the leaseholder and two guests. It is alleged that Hernandez and Martinez were both armed with weapons, specifically a baseball bat and a knife.
Upon entering the residence, it is alleged that Rodriguez opened a closet and removed a safe. It is further alleged that Rodriguez then instructed Hernandez and Martinez to demand the safe key from the leaseholder/victim or to kill all three occupants of the residence.
It is alleged that the victim turned over the key, as well as a gold necklace he was wearing, at which point the three Defendants fled the scene.
On October 23, all three Defendants were taken into custody pursuant to this ongoing investigation. Rodriguez was taken into custody in Dover. Hernandez and Martinez were taken into custody in Rockaway Borough.
Multiple law enforcement agencies have been actively involved in this investigation, including the New Jersey State Police, the Rockaway Borough Police Department, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit.
If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200.
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.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, and Chief Brian C. Spring of the Pequannock Township Police Department announce the sentencing of Sergiu Jitcu, 39, of Saddle Brook, on Computer Criminal Theft charges.
On or about November 8, 2017, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office was contacted by Chilton Medical Center Director of Security who reported a theft of computer equipment from the facility by the defendant.
The defendant is now a former IT employee at Chilton Medical Center. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Specialized Crimes Division was advised that Chilton Medical Center received information from a resident of Wisconsin that he had purchased a computer hard drive on eBay from the defendant and this computer hard drive contained personal identifying information of individual(s) who may have been treated at Chilton Medical Center. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Specialized Crimes Division commenced an investigation into the allegation and, ultimately, executed a Search Warrant on the defendant’s residence and motor vehicles resulting in the seizure of various computer equipment and additional items belonging to Chilton Medical Center.
Subsequent investigation has revealed that at least one computer storage medium, which was sold on eBay by the defendant, contained data/databases with personal identifying information of patients of Chilton Medical Center.
On or about December 15, 2017, Chilton Medical Center sent notifications to patients, identified as potentially being affected by the theft, who had been treated at Chilton Medical Center advising of the incident.
The defendant plead guilty on September 4, to the following offenses based on the defendant’s criminal activity on various dates between January 1, 2015 and November 8, 2017: One count of Computer Criminal Activity, i.e. computer theft by accessing data, data base, computer storage medium or computer equipment without authorization or in excess of the authorization, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:20-25a, a crime of the Third degree; and one count of Theft, i.e. the taking of computer equipment from Chilton Medical Center, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3a, a crime of the Third degree.
On October 26, the Hon. Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.S.C., Superior Court of New Jersey, Morris Vicinage, sentenced the defendant to non-custodial probation for a term of five years with the special condition that the defendant make restitution, via monthly payments thru the Morris County Probation Department, to Chilton Medical Center in the amount of $64,250.00.
Prosecutor Knapp would like to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Specialized Crimes Division, Financial Crimes Unit, Pequannock Township Police Department, Saddle Brook Police Department and Chilton Medical Center whose efforts contributed to the investigation and prosecution of this case.
PARSIPPANY — Meet Mocha! This 4-year-old Chihuahua is teeny tiny and full of love to give!
Mocha’s favorite activities include cuddles and being held by her foster mom. She would love to go around town with you shopping and stopping by your favorite restaurant for a bite to eat.
Mocha is good with other animals and can live with children 10 and up. She is wee wee pad trained and not destructive when left home alone.
If you’re looking for a little friend to take around everywhere you go, Mocha is your girl!
If you are interested in adopting Mocha, please fill out an application by clicking here.
Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Instagram by clicking here.
Like Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, in collaboration with the Morris County Department of Human Services, today announced the start of an innovative new program focused on the successful re-entry of inmates back into civilian life, one that could be a model for the state and nation.
The STAR or Successful Transition and Re-Entry Program offers a series of almost-immediate post-incarceration activities and programming to prepare ex-offenders to return safely to their communities and to live as law abiding residents and neighbors.
“I cannot put enough emphasis on the importance of aftercare support services when it comes to inmates incarcerated within our correctional facilities,’’ said Sheriff Gannon. “If you don’t give the inmates the tools they need to make a difference upon discharge, they will most likely go back to what they know.”
Morris County Human Service Director Jennifer Carpinteri
“We are excited to team up again with Sheriff Gannon on a program that has the potential to make a difference in so many lives,’’ said Morris County Human Service Director Jennifer Carpinteri.
“This new initiative has the potential to make a difference in our county, to help individuals get back on a positive track while also making Morris County a better and safer place to live,’’ added Morris County Freeholder Director Doug Cabana.
The STAR Program will deal with substance abuse issues, which are prime causes of behaviors that lead to criminal activity and incarceration, and a current focus of the Sheriff’s Hope Wing Program at the county jail.
However, the program also will provide ex-offenders with essential life tools, assisting them with housing, employment and training, education, family reunification, mental health services, dental care, and basic needs such as food, medical care and clothing.
Participating inmates will leave the county jail with a pre-arranged appointment and comprehensive aftercare plan. County social services workers from the Office of Temporary Assistance immediately will begin working with referred inmates, conducting personal interviews and teaching life skills, organization and goal setting.
They will continue those efforts for up to 12 months, helping ex-inmates overcome barriers to jobs, housing, and education, while also focusing on drug, alcohol and mental health issues.
To make this possible, the county Department of Human Services has allocated two full-time staff members to the project and has created a satellite office onsite at the Morris County Correctional Facility.
“We are proud that Morris County is the first county in the state to have dually-trained professionals, who can work on eligibility for federal and state benefits for clients from within the walls of the correctional facility and also address their social service needs once they are released,” said Carpinteri.
According to the Congressional Research Service, two million people are incarcerated across the nation. Some 95 percent of those individuals will be released. However, within five years, nearly three-quarters of those ex-offenders are rearrested and more than half return to jail or prison. The prime reasons: homelessness, lack of education, unemployment, mental illness, and substance abuse.
“We have to do something to start to change this negative pattern. “That’s why this STAR Program is so important and has such great promise,’’ said Sheriff Gannon. “It should increase inmates’ likelihood of success when they are released into the community, consequently reducing crime and chances of re-incarceration.”
Douglas R. Cabana, Freeholder Director
Upon completion of the 12-month program, a “warm handoff’’ will be facilitated between the STAR staff and a licensed treatment provider for continued assistance for the ex-inmate.
As part of the STAR program, inmates who are battling addiction may be eligible for medication assisted therapy options, to be determined by the jail’s medical staff on an individual basis.
Dr. Elmer Gilo, medical director at the county jail, has approved the use of VIVITROL to qualifying inmates upon their release. That medication is a non-addictive treatment used to prevent relapse in opioid dependent patients when used with counseling following detoxification.
The strength of the STAR Program’s post release component relies on partnerships with other service providers in the community.
The county’s partners in this venture include mental health and addiction providers, health clinics, educational institutions, housing specialists, the Morris County Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Employment and Training Services, among many others.
For a brief overview of the STAR program click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco is seeking living arrangements for more than 80 apartment residents who were displaced or made homeless in Monday’s devastating fire in downtown Dover.
“People have been left with nothing but the clothes on their back,” said Bucco (R-Morris). “When a tragedy this bad strikes we must come together to help our neighbors; and I encourage anyone who can help.”
Bucco called the New Jersey Apartment Association and asked for them to prepare a list of properties with immediate vacancies.
“Not only were they ready to help connect victims with new accommodations, their associated members have offered to waive application fees and offer other discounts to help re-house displaced residents,” said Bucco.
The association’s executive director, David Brogan, said residents searching for new housing in the wake of this incident should visit our www.njaa.com to see the most up-to-date list.
“I applaud the apartment association for their community spirit,” said Assemblyman Michael Patrick Carroll (R-Morris). “This demonstrates precisely how Americans react when tragedy strikes: coming forward to help those in need without even being asked.”
Donations of money, food and clothes are being accepted at the Dover Fire Department and at various other locations in the town.
DOVER — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Town of Dover Mayor James P. Dodd stated on Monday, October 22, at 3:29 p.m., a caller reported smoke in the basement of Barry’s Luncheonette, a business located in a commercial/residential building at 3 North Warren Street, Dover.
Barry’s Luncheonette, located at 3 North Warren Street, Dover
First responding firefighters and police officers observed heavy smoke in the area and safely evacuated all occupants of adjacent structures. Thick smoke and the sound of fire was heard/observed throughout several adjoining buildings that house businesses and residences.
Due to the significance of this fire, the Morris County Fire Mutual Aid Plan was put into effect, wherein the Morris County Office of Emergency Management, through its County Fire Coordinator, oversees the acquirement, deployment and management of the numerous mutual aid resources available through the plan in support of large firefighting operations. The Dover Department of Public Works and Water Department, with the aid of the neighboring towns’ Public Works and Water Departments ensured sufficient water resources were available for suppression operations.
The fire quickly spread upward and outward, eventually venting through the roof of the adjoined buildings at 17 and 19 West Blackwell Street. The fire continued to spread northward to the adjacent buildings at 3, 5, 7 and 9 North Warren Street.
Fire suppression efforts were undertaken externally by ground crews and aerial ladder apparatus from all sides of the structures. Several of the buildings collapsed during fire suppression operations. A police officer suffered a minor injury at the scene; otherwise there were no injuries reported. By 9:00 p.m., the fire was brought under control. Fire crews remained on scene overnight and throughout the day Tuesday due to smoldering debris and to assist in excavation/cleanup operations.
In total, six businesses and ten apartments were completely destroyed; three businesses and six apartments suffered smoke/water/heat damage, as follows:
Completely Destroyed
El Paraisa Restaurant / two overhead apartments – 19 West Blackwell Street
La Notaria (notary public) – 17.5 West Blackwell Street
La Bamba Grill Mexican Restaurant – 17 West Blackwell Street
Four overhead apartments – 9 North Warren Street
Taqueria Brenda Lee Restaurant – 7 North Warren Street
Jocelyn Beauty Salon – 5 North Warren Street
Barry’s Luncheonette / four overhead apartments – 3 North Warren Street
Partially Damaged
Morris Thrift Store – 11 North Warren Street
Piñatas Las Flores (party supply store) – 21 West Blackwell Street
Dover Discount Store & six overhead apartments – 23 West Blackwell Street
Andy Zaharopoulos from Morris County Sheriff DepartmentMine Hill Fire DepartmentPicatinny Arsenal Fire & Emergency Services
Approximately 80 residents have been either temporarily or permanently displaced. The American Red Cross is providing care for the affected families/residents (all donations are being managed through the Red Cross).
The investigation into the origin and cause of the fire is being conducted jointly by the Dover Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Fire/Environmental Unit, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Bergen County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, NJ Division of Fire Safety Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The following agencies responded and assisted with operations at the scene:
Dover Fire Department
Picatinny Arsenal Fire Department
Rockaway Boro Fire Department
Wharton Fire Department
Randolph Fire Department
Mine Hill Fire Department
Mt. Tabor Volunteer Fire Department District 1
Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department District 2
Lake Hiawatha Volunteer Fire Department District 4
Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Department District 5
Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department District 6
Parsippany Rescue and Recovery
Chester Boro Fire Department
Cedar Knolls Fire Department
Washington Township Fire Department
Whippany Fire Department
Netcong Fire Department
Morris Township Fire Department
Morris Plains Fire Department
Wayne Township Fire Department
Flanders Fire Department
Jefferson Twp. Fire Department
Brookside Fire Department
Denville Fire Department
Rockaway Township Fire Department
Schooley’s Mountain Fire Department
Warren County Fire Task Force
Franklin Township Fire Department
Blairstown Fire Department
Allamuchy Fire Department
Byram Fire Department
Andover Fire Department
East Hanover Fire Department
Madison Fire Department
Wharton Fire Department
Paterson Fire Department
Boonton Fire Department
St. Clare’s Hospital Emergency Medical Services
Atlantic Health Emergency Medical Services
Morris County Dept. of Law & Public Safety
Morris County Office of Emergency Management
Morris County Prosecutor’s Office
Morris County Park Police
Morris County Sheriff’s Office
Bergen County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit
NJ State Police
NJ Transit Police Department
NJ Dept. of Transportation
NJ Division of Fire Safety
Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives
PARSIPPANY — Boy and girl Cub Scouts from Pack 14 enjoyed their first camporee this past weekend.
Pack 14 is a new pack serving boys and girls in grades K-5 at Eastlake and Lake Parsippany schools.
They joined Cub Scouts from other packs in Morris county at the Fishawack Cubelos at Mount Allamuchy Scout Reservation in Stanhope.
On Saturday, the Cub Scouts had a full day of activities including archery, bb, row boats, walking a monkey bridge, fishing, flag etiquette, and first aid skills.
Several parents from Pack 14 remarked on how their child overcame some fear of putting a worm on a hook or shooting a bow and arrow and came away with greater confidence.
For information on joining Pack 14, or one of our four other packs in Parsippany, contact Al Thomas,al.thomas@scouting.org, (973) 765-9322 x229.
DENVILLE — The Kiwanis Club of Denville and Imperial Brass are presenting a concert “A Season of Thanksgiving with a Special Thanks to our Veterans.” The concert will be held at Lakeview School, 44 Cooper Road, Denville on Saturday evening, November 17 at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 7:00 p.m. The first 100 veterans to register will attend free. The cost for tickets is $10.00.
Free veteran tickets and $10.00 tickets can be obtained online by clicking here or at Highlands State Bank, 55 Broadway; or Painten Place, 150 Route 53 and C2 Education, 276 East Main Street.
Imperial Brass has been delighting audiences around New Jersey for over 25 years. Originally founded as the Rutgers Alumni Brass Band by alumni Steve Dillon and Jon Korsun with arranger Mark Freeh, the band gave its first concert in April of 1991. Since then, Imperial Brass has presented highly entertaining programs that include traditional brass band literature, classical arrangements, popular music and more.
Many of the world’s greatest brass musicians have worked and collaborated with Imperial Brass over the years. Featured artists have included former principal trumpet of the New York Philharmonic Philip Smith, principal trombone of the New York Philharmonic Joseph Alessi, storied British euphonium soloists Robert and Nicholas Childs, famed American jazz cornetist Warren Vaché, principal trombone of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Charles Baker, and principal tuba of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Derek Fenstermacher.
PARSIPPANY — This is my 10th year as a Board of Education Member. It has been an honor and privilege to serve the community. First, if I may, tell you a little about my family and myself: My daughter, Stephanie, is a graduate of CCM. She is working full-time and pursuing her bachelor’s degree. My son, AJ, is a senior at PHHS. His passion is music and he will be pursuing music as his career. I am very proud of both of them. My wife Nancy is a Paraprofessional at Intervale School. I am Human Resources Director for an international shipping company. We have lived in Parsippany for almost 20 years.
Why Am I Running for Re-Election?
During my 10 years on the Board of Education, the school district has made tremendous progress in student achievement, district operations, technology and the security of our children. I believe that I have the necessary experience to continue to improve and enhance the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District for the benefit of all who live and attend school here.
We must ensure we are educating students who can be successful after they graduate and go on to college or enter the workforce. This must be our focus and I commit to you it will be mine. We continue to see improvements in most academic areas. Our students are learning and this is validated by various measurement tools. I would encourage you to visit the district website and view the Student Achievement Results presentation and to also review the district’s goals as presented by Superintendent Dr. Barbara Sargent.
One way to ensure we achieve our goals is to have a plan. This Board did create a strategic plan to help us envision what the future should be for our children. We created that strategic plan, are finalizing it and are implementing it now. We have specific district goals that you can find on the district website to support the strategic plan. We also created a new district mission statement that is forward thinking and inclusive. It’s hard to get where you want to go without a plan. I am proud that this Board had the vision and courage to think strategically. We are now looking ahead to the year 2023 to ensure we have the resources today and in the future so that are children continue to excel.
Technology is an important area that can enhance student achievement. We continue to review which educational software and hardware are appropriate; our buildings are connected with upgraded Wi-Fi; teachers have the latest educational technology at their disposal; and district administration can evaluate academic programs. We now have the appropriate technology to improve the student learning experience.
When thinking about school finances, I am so grateful that our community is supportive and generous. I take very seriously the trust that the community puts in me to ensure our tax dollars are spent wisely. Unfortunately, a former superintendent’s aggressive expansion of staff and unwise decisions regarding the financing of major projects left our district in a difficult financial position. It took hard work and some tough decisions to ensure that we put the district back on sound financial footing. We have taken the necessary steps and have returned to financial stability. I will continue to ensure that sound financial decisions are made so we keep money in the classroom.
What Can You Expect of Me?
Reflecting back on my 10 years of service on the Board, I asked myself: Did I get every decision I made right? The answer is: Absolutely not. However, every decision I made was made with the best interests of students, taxpayers, and staff in mind. Some accomplishments I am proud of include:
Creating a Strategic Plan;
Entering into an innovative shared services agreement with the township to provide resources that improve school security; and
Balancing the needs of the students with fiscal responsibility by developing a sustainable budget.
I am not only proud of my work, but those of my Board colleagues. Together, in a friendly and collaborative way, we continue to enhance and improve our school district. The trust we have in each other to have honest discussions about the district is astounding.
I am delighted to say that our student achievement continues to excel to the extent that Parsippany ranks in the top 20% of New Jersey school districts in test scores. Parsippany was just ranked as THE best place to live in NJ by Time Magazine. Additionally, Parsippany was just listed in the Top 50 Best Places to Live in the US by Money Magazine. Money Magazine went on the say that, “Parsippany schools had “among the highest scoring of any New Jersey locale we evaluated.”
I want to continue this success:
To see that every student is successful.
To ensure we are financially stable.
To listen to you. To our administrators. To our faculty and staff.
And to ensure we have polices designed to achieve our collective goals.
I respectfully ask for your support by voting for me on Election Day, Tuesday, November 6th.
Leading health and well-being company Humana is expanding the health plan choices for Medicare beneficiaries in New Jersey by offering Humana Medicare Advantage plan offerings in the state for the first time. Residents of six New Jersey counties can select from the 2019 plans during this year’s Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan Annual Election Period, or AEP.
During the AEP, which runs from October 15 through December 7, 2018, Medicare beneficiaries in three Northern New Jersey counties – Bergen, Hudson and Morris – and in three Southern New Jersey counties – Burlington, Camden and Gloucester – can enroll in a Humana Choice Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Medicare Advantage plan, with coverage taking effect January 1, 2019.
The plans offered will have premiums ranging from $0 to low monthly plan premiums; low co-payments for doctor visits; coverage for most annual screenings at no charge; a broad, national network of physicians, specialists and hospitals, which is important to those who know they will be seeking care outside of state lines; and emergency coverage anywhere in the world.
In addition, all of the New Jersey plans include:
Access to a 24-hour nurse advice hotline.
Go365TM, a wellness and rewards program designed to motivate and reward members for taking steps toward healthy behaviors, like receiving recommended wellness screenings, flu shots, and other healthy activities.
Humana Well Dine®, which provides nutritious meals to eligible Medicare members recovering from an inpatient stay in a hospital or skilled nursing facility.
“We’re excited to offer New Jerseyans a brand-new option in Medicare Advantage coverage,” said Rich Vollmer, Humana Senior Vice President and Medicare North Division Leader. “With more than 30 years of Medicare experience, Humana is committed to the well-being of the communities we serve. We look forward to helping our new members in New Jersey achieve better health.”
The new Humana Medicare Advantage PPO plans will provide people with Medicare in New Jersey with affordable alternatives to original Medicare only, or original Medicare paired with a Medicare Supplement plan. With these plans, members can enjoy all the benefits of original Medicare, as well as prescription drug coverage on most plans, along with added benefits and important financial protections for their healthcare costs.
Some of the Humana PPO Medicare Advantage plans in New Jersey also will include hearing, dental and vision benefits, as well as an Over-the-Counter (OTC) quarterly allowance that can be spent on OTC health and wellness products from Humana Pharmacy®, including first-aid supplies, aspirin, and cold and allergy medicine. SilverSneakers, which provides memberships at participating fitness centers, and access to classes designed with the Medicare beneficiary in mind, is also included in most plans.
New Jerseyans seeking more information about enrolling in Humana plans can visit www.Humana.com/Medicare or speak with one of Humana’s licensed sales agents by calling 1-877-877-0714 (TTY: 711) 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time, seven days a week.
About Humana
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PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Lightning 14U softball team won the Jefferson League Gold Division Championship this past weekend. They played a tough game and won their victory after a nine inning game with a score of 12-11.
PARSIPPANY — October is National Bully Awareness month. Miracles USA Taekwondo held a “Bullying Prevention Night.” Local school teachers attended the event along with area students.
The students learned first hand on how to deal with bullying.
The event was held on Saturday, October 20 at 374 Route 46.
Local school teachers had the opportunity to “Break Boards for Bully Awareness.” This helps show all our students in the community that they are not alone in their fight against bullies.
Students watching a video on bullying at Miracles USA Taekwondo
TRENTON — Continuing to expand patient access and reform New Jersey’s Medicinal Marijuana Program, the Murphy Administration has seen the number of patients in the program double from roughly 17,000 to 34,000 since the day Governor Murphy took office in January. The program has also added 300 doctors and reduced wait times for ID cards. Dispensaries are also now able to post prices, so patients can comparison shop.
Governor Phil Murphy
A series of other reforms have reduced by half the amount of time it takes patients to get ID cards to an average of two weeks; allowed caregivers for terminally ill patients to get provisional eligibility cards while they await background checks; and streamlined internal processes for new patient applications so patients are not losing a month of physician certification.
“New Jersey’s program has made incredible strides in expanding access and becoming a compassionate, consumer-friendly service for patients by adding physicians and new medical conditions and seeking applications for another six dispensaries,” Governor Phil Murphy said.
“The addition of five new medical conditions—anxiety, migraines, two forms of chronic pain and Tourette’s Syndrome—has been the primary driver in the growth of the program,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Shereef Elnahal. “We’ve also added 300 physicians to the program—for a total of 800—including 200 who joined since I began a series of Grand Rounds lectures in hospitals and medical schools to educate the medical community about medical marijuana’s benefits. Physicians should consider marijuana as another appropriate treatment for patients with many medical conditions, especially diseases for which conventional therapies aren’t working for their patients.”
In addition to the 34,000 patients, there are 1,345 caregivers and 800 physicians currently participating in the program, and six Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs) are operating in Montclair, Woodbridge, Cranbury, Bellmawr, Egg Harbor Township and Secaucus. Of the 17,000 patients who have signed up since January, a majority have one of the five new medical conditions added at the end of March.
In addition, fees have been reduced, mobile access has been added to the patient portal, ATCs can open satellite locations and participating physicians are no longer required to have their names published on the Department of Health’s website. In August, the Department received 146 applications from 103 organizations in response to its request to add up to six additional ATCs — two each in the northern, central and southern part of the state. Each application is 300 pages and the Department is currently assessing how long it will take to complete the review process and announce the six successful applicants.
“Over the past three months alone, the program has added 9,000 patients,” Dr. Elnahal said.
Dr. Elnahal has given seven Grand Round lectures to 2,000 physicians and other clinicians at Hackensack University Medical Center, St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Virtua Health and Hunterdon Medical Center. On Thursday, October 25, Commissioner Elnahal will address physicians at AtlantiCare.
The Department is also exploring the addition of opioid use disorder as a distinct qualifying condition—in concert with Medication Assisted Treatment—to the list of conditions that would allow patients to participate in the program. Opioids are on track to cause 3,000 deaths in New Jersey this year, and about 3.2 million opioid prescriptions were written between Jan. 1 and Sept. 27. Studies have demonstrated a strong correlation between the availability of medical marijuana and a reduction in opioid prescriptions. Currently, opioid use disorder must be associated with chronic pain related to musculoskeletal disorders in order to be a qualifying condition.
For more information, visit the Department’s Medicinal Marijuana click here.
Kyle Braen, a 2017 Graduate of Parsippany High School
PARSIPPANY — A 2017 Parsippany High School graduate and Parsippany native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason.
Navy Seaman Kyle Braen is a culinary specialist aboard the warship, based in Norfolk, Virginia. USS Mason is named after Secretary of the Navy John Young Mason and Distinguished Flying Cross Recipient Ensign Newton Henry Mason.
A Navy culinary specialist is responsible for cooking quality meals to boost the sailors’ morale.
“I enjoy acquiring new cooking skills that will help me achieve my goal as becoming a certified chef in the civilian world,” Braen said.
Braen credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Parsippany.
“I learned a great work ethic, to be a good communicator, and how to be a team player,” Braen said.
U.S. Navy sailors, like Braen, are stationed both stateside and on the high seas aboard surface ships around the world. USS Mason is one of more than 60 ships on the east coast of the United States as part of Naval Surface Forces, U.S. Atlantic Fleet.
U.S. Navy ships are deployed globally, and their presence helps the Navy control the sea. Sea control is vital to project power, secure common areas, deter aggression and assure allies when and where desired.
Due to its extensive combat capability, the Mason is able to fire Tomahawk Cruise Missiles and other weapons as part of sustained combat operations against targets on and below the sea, in addition to hitting targets hundreds of miles over the land.
The ship is equipped with the Aegis Combat System, which integrates the ship’s electronic sensors and weapons systems to defend against anti-ship missile threats. The ship’s air search and fire control radar provides continuous search and tracking of hundreds targets simultaneously.
The crew of more than 300 sailors build a strong fellowship while working alongside each other. The sailors are highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions as part of a busy life of specialized work, watches and drills.
“I like meeting new people that have the same interests and skills that I do,” Braen said. “The little things like this helps sailors here onboard have good camaraderie.”
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Braen is most proud of getting his sharpshooter ribbon from shooting weapons on the ship.
“I set a personal goal to achieve this level which will now help me work on my expert marksmanship badge,” Braen said.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Braen and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, one that will provide a critical component of the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving in the Navy means to be honorable and have the power to defend the country and help others,” Braen added
They joined Cub Scouts from other packs in Morris county at the Fishawack Cubelos at Mount Allamuchy Scout Reservation in Stanhope.
