County College of Morris VP Named National Marketing Council’s Rising Star

MORRIS COUNTY — Melissa Albright, the vice president of marketing, public relations, and enrollment management at the County College of Morris (CCM), has been named the 2023 Rising Star by the National Council of Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR). The award recognizes an up-and-coming communication professional at a two-year college who has demonstrated creativity and ability in college marketing and public relations and has shown evidence of a promising future.

After two years in higher ed marketing leadership, Albright uses her relationship-building skills to help 25-year industry veterans grow. She has years of experience in the corporate world and as a middle school teacher, and the lessons from those items on her résumé help her in her current role. But it’s perhaps her time teaching special education helps the most, she says, both in her vice president duties and as an employee celebrating the success of community college students. Her seven years teaching special ed taught her a level of compassion and understanding not to put ceilings on any students she worked with, she says.

Albright prioritizes employee learning, speaking of one employee who has been with the college for a quarter century. She recently told Albright, “I’ve been doing my job for 25 years and doing it the same way for 25 years. I thought I was pretty good. Then you came along, and you invested in me. You’ve taught me to collaborate differently, and now I feel like I’m doing my best work.”

CCM recently was named one of 10 finalists for the Lumina Foundation’s Million Dollar Community College Challenge. As a finalist, CCM will receive $100,000, which it will use for a website redesign. Albright co-wrote the college’s submission and developed strategies for the challenge.

“She is also responsible for a huge morale boost within marketing and communications,” writes CCM president Anthony Iacono, who nominated Albright for the award. “Today, we have a team that is proud of their work, each other, and our college. Melissa has taught them their importance and value as people and professionals, and their results have exceeded anything we could have imagined.”

DeGroot Campaign Challenges Petitions of Agliata and Snyder

MORRIS COUNTY — The DeGroot campaign formally objected to the candidacies of Robert Snyder for Commissioner and Andrew Agliata for County Clerk. “Our campaign is aware that their petitions were improperly circulated and notarized. This was confirmed by eyewitness testimony and video evidence,” said a spokesperson for the DeGroot Campaign.

Eyewitness testimony and video evidence of the petition signers confirmed that the circulator was not present when Republican voters signed the petitions for Snyder and Agliatta. It was circulated instead by a woman who was identified as an Executive Board Member of the Morris County Republican Committee and a Montville School Board Member, also an elected Morris County Committee Woman. The Morris County Republican Committee had previously chosen their “Line” candidate for Commissioner Tyfun Selen.

DeGroot stated, “This shady scheme of collecting signatures for these two “last day to file” candidates was solely to create confusion among Republicans and to hurt DeGroot’s campaign by pushing his bracket further off the ballot and diluting DeGroot’s chances for victory. Make no mistake, shady things are going on, and schemes were hatched to protect Selen and the Line.”

“This woman did not identify the candidates she was collecting signatures for and misled the signers as to who they were signing for. One signer stated that this woman requested they sign the petition twice but did not inform them that it was for two candidates. Further, this woman did not sign the petition as the circulator; however, a young man did sign the petition under oath, knowing he was not the circulator.”

“Paul DeGroot is supported by the real Republican voters of Morris County, who will not fall for the establishment’s last-minute ballot-fixing schemes for their gain.”

“Collusion with phantom candidates to manipulate the ballot is a shocking and grave threat to voter integrity and a dirty trick. The Republican Party has long opposed the Democrat’s careless election schemes. We cannot allow fraudulent petitions and back-door deals to manipulate the ballot in our own Party. We must do better.”

“As a former Chief Assistant Prosecutor of the Public Integrity Section, his unit sought out and prosecuted corruption. When elected to the Board of County Commissioners, DeGroot will be a breath of fresh air and shine a bright light to expose backroom deals and prevent things like this from happening,” stated DeGroot.

Last week,  a slate of off-the-line candidates running in the Republican primary received Column 1 after the deputy county clerk Anna McMahon conducted a ballot draw. Column 1 is headed by Paul DeGroot, a former Passaic County Prosecutor, and 2022 Congressional candidate now seeking a county commissioner seat.

That placed Tom Mastrangelo (R-Montville), a county commissioner seeking the GOP nomination for State Senate, at the top of the ticket in Morris County.  Mastrangelo is joined in Column 1 by BettyLou DeCroce (R-Parsippany), who seeks to regain the Assembly seat she lost two years ago, and another Assembly candidate, former Parsippany Councilman Robert Peluso.

 

What is Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

All You Need to Know About Compensation in Nursing Home Abuse Claims

If you’ve been the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, it can be daunting to take legal action. Many steps must be taken to ensure justice is served, but perhaps the most important one involves seeking compensation. The amount of possible financial restitution varies depending on factors like the severity of the injury and how much wrong was done to you; however, familiarizing yourself with what to expect is an essential part of taking care of yourself in such a stressful situation. In this blog post, we’ll break down all aspects concerning compensation for nursing home abuse claims so that if zeroing in on financial gain is your main priority, you’ll know exactly where to turn next and have accurate expectations from start to finish.

What is Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Nursing home abuse and neglect are serious issues facing the elderly today. Unfortunately, it is estimated that over 10% of nursing home residents are victims of some form of abuse. Abuse can be both physical and emotional, including hitting and verbal threats. In addition to physical abuse, neglect can take forms like inadequate healthcare or nutrition, unsanitary living environments, being left alone for extended periods of time, or even exploitation for financial purposes. It’s important to recognize these troubling behaviors as signs of mistreatment, so family members and caretakers remain vigilant and can intervene quickly to protect vulnerable loved ones from any harm that may come to them.

Understanding Compensatory Damages and Reimbursement Claims

Compensatory damages and reimbursement claims are financial compensation offered to those who have suffered severe harm or injury due to another entity’s negligence. Nursing home falls resulting in serious injuries, like broken bones and traumatic brain injuries, are considered liable losses that could lead to hundreds of thousands of dollars worth in compensation. If you or someone you know has suffered an injury due to someone else’s carelessness, be sure to understand more about compensatory damages and reimbursement claims so that they can pursue their legal rights and receive the justice they deserve.

Identifying Qualifying Victims of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Identifying victims of nursing home abuse and neglect can be daunting, particularly when their diminished mental or physical state makes it difficult for them to report the wrongdoing. Family members and friends of patients in nursing homes must remain vigilant and observe behavior that could indicate abuse or neglect. Such behaviors could include avoidance of eye contact with staff, frequent changes in attitude towards the facility, unexplained absences from activities, sudden weight loss/gain, depression, anxiety, or other emotional expressions of discomfort. In addition, any bruising or other physical injuries should prompt further inquiry into the patient’s well-being. Early detection of potential issues can help ensure that vulnerable nursing home residents are properly cared for and protected from harm.

Statute of Limitations on Filing a Claim for Compensation in a Nursing Home Abuse Case

Survivors of nursing home abuse may take comfort in knowing that the statute of limitations to bring a compensation claim is typically generous. Depending on the state and jurisdiction, they may have as many as two or four years or more in some cases. Generally speaking, however, serious injuries – such as those due to acts of willful misconduct are usually subject to shorter filing periods and could require filing a claim within one year. Knowing when the statutes of limitation run out is key for survivors attempting to sue for compensation for their losses. It’s important to review applicable federal and state laws to determine the time limit since the statute of limitations can vary from case to case. With diligent scholarship on behalf of survivors, an experienced attorney can ensure that no potential compensation window is overlooked.

Proving Negligence and Liability in Nursing Home Abuse Cases

Proving negligence and liability in nursing home abuse cases is a complex process. Often, witnesses are few, as elderly victims can become disoriented or afraid to speak up for fear of retribution. In some states, the legal system requires that multiple sources of evidence and testimony must be provided to win a case. This can prove challenging when covering up and intimidation tactics are used against victims, making it hard to find and trust others willing to testify. Fortunately, due to the rise in awareness of the severe nature of nursing home abuse, governments have begun imposing strict regulations on these facilities with stiff penalties for those found guilty. With an experienced attorney and thorough examination of records, including financial statements and hiring practices, survivors and their families may finally be able to bring justice against those responsible.

Calculating the Amount of Compensation You Can Receive for Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect

When it comes to calculating the amount of compensation you can receive for nursing home abuse or neglect, there are a few factors that you need to take into account. The severity of the abuse or neglect is one of the first things that need to be assessed, along with any medical expenses you incurred. It’s also helpful to examine whether the abuse or neglect caused long-term physical or emotional suffering. Furthermore, looking into state and federal laws concerning residents’ rights in nursing homes can help determine if punitive damages are available for compensatory rewards. Ultimately, getting legal representation from an experienced attorney in this area can help you get all appropriate legal compensation for your suffering and loss.

Concluding Thoughts

Taking the necessary steps to prevent nursing home abuse and neglect is critical in providing safe and quality care for those most vulnerable. By understanding the specifics of a nursing home abuse and neglect case, victims can seek compensation to cover their damages. Awareness of the damages that can be covered and who qualifies as a victim is essential in making informed decisions on filing claims. Proving negligence and liability are vital components when calculating compensation. Finally, it’s important to note that claims must be filed within specific deadlines or statutes of limitations to be considered valid. Researching potential abuse or neglect before committing to a facility, or even having someone frequently stay with your loved one if admitted into one, will provide optimal protection from such atrocities. It’s our social responsibility to ensure that those who require close watch receive competent care so they can live safe and happy lives.

Two Parsippany Residents Honored with the Socolowski Senior Citizen of the Year Award

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany’s Office on Aging honored two resident volunteers, aged 60 and over, who have offered their time and experience to worthwhile projects, causes, or activities that enhance people’s lives. The nominees may be employed, but the volunteer work was only considered.

On Tuesday, April 4, Mayor James Barberio honored two residents: Karen DeChristopher and Karl Riffel.

Karl Riffel with Mayor James Barberio

Karl Riffel has selflessly volunteered his time, talents, and skills for over forty-five. years for, among others, the Lake Parsippany Property Owners Association, Girls Scouts of America, the Parsippany PAL Color Guard, and the Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad. 

Karl joined the Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad along with his Nan in an effort to give back to the community. He helped wherever needed, whether driving the ambulance, patient transport, moving equipment, or supporting the EMS team.

Karl continues his volunteerism at the Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad at the clubhouse, where he is known as the “handyman,” providing upkeep and maintenance on the property.

Also honored was Karen DeChristopher. Karen DeChristopher has selflessly volunteered her time, talents, and skills for over twenty years for, among others, the Parsippany OEM Emergency Response Team, Family Promise, Jersey Battered Women’s Shelter, Kiwanis Club of Parsippany, Woman’s Club of Parsippany and the American Cancer Society; and in 2006, Karen joined the Parsippany CERT Team and, as Senior Leader, volunteered countless hours during Super Storm Sandy, Hurricane Irene, winter storms, flooding events, downed electrical wires, and various other Township emergencies and events.

As a three-time cancer survivor, Karen has volunteered her time to The American Cancer Society in an effort to help others battling the disease, and her passion for volunteering in support of women’s and children’s causes is inspiring and infectious.

Michele Picone, Director of Parsippany Health and Human Services, presents Karen DeChristopher with a check. Mayor James Barberio looks on. Thanks to the Estate of Jean D. Socolowski, they can award a monetary prize to the winning volunteers.

 

Fundraiser for Coach Brad Wilbur

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Assistant Superintendent of Schools Denis Mulroony and Parsippany High School Coach Jason Hurta organized a fundraiser to help the former football coach and friend Coach Brad Wilbur and his family through a very difficult and tragic time.

Sadly, Coach Wilbur is currently (and bravely) battling cancer. Consequently, his family faces financial hardships due to this medical situation.

While they need your thoughts and prayers, Mulroony and Hurta decided to create a GoFundMe page and share it with friends, fellow coaches, former players, colleagues, etc.. to provide some much-needed financial support.

If you can, please consider donating any amount you’re comfortable with.

Click here to donate.

Good Friday: Ecumenical Service and Walk with the Cross

PARSIPPANY — St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, First Baptist Community Church, and St. Andrew Lutheran Church of Parsippany participated in an “Ecumenical Service and Walk with the Cross” on Good Friday, April 7.

Carrying the cross down South Beverwyck Road

The walk started at St. Gregory’s Church at 1:00 p.m., continued down South Beverwyck Road to Reynolds Avenue, and ended at St. Andrew Lutheran Church of Parsippany.

Participating was The Rev. Dr. Arron Oliver, Priest-in-Residence, St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church with Michael Flynn, Music Minister; Rev. Dr. Stacie Turk, First Baptist Community Church; and Vicar M.A. “Psomi” Psomas-Jacklosk from St. Andrew Lutheran Church of Parsippany.

Walk with the Cross on Reynolds Avenue
Reading at the arrival at St. Andrews

 

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjust Meeting – April 5, 2023

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board Meeting – April 5, 2023.

Click here to download the agenda.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment
2023 Members and Term Dates

  • Robert Iracane    Chairman    12/31/25
  • Dave Kaplan    Vice-Chair       12/31/23
  • Bernard Berkowitz    Member      12/31/24
  • Scot Joskowitz    Member        12/31/25
  • Nancy Snyder    Member        12/31/23
  • Sridath Reddy    Member        12/31/25
  • Davey Willans    Member        12/31/24
  • Casey Parikh    Alt. No. 1        12/31/23
  • Chris Mazzarella    Alt. No. 2        12/31/23
  • John Chadwick, Planner, John T. Chadwick IV P.P.
  • Chas Holloway, Engineer, Keller & Kirkpatrick
  • Peter King, Attorney, King Moench Hirniak & Collins, LLP
  • Nora O. Jolie, Board Secretary

Agenda subject to change without notice
Although the information on this site is believed to be reliable, online postings of meeting agendas are not considered official copies.

Video: Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – April 4, 2023

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Agenda Meeting will be held on April 4, 2023.

Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. Council meetings are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.

Click here to download the agenda.

Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request auxiliary aid.

Click here to download the 2023 agenda schedule.

Mayor and Council

Mayor James R Barberio
Council President Loretta Gragnani
Council Vice-President Michael J. dePierro
Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.
Councilman Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella

Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – April 4, 2023

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting will meet on April 4, 2023, at 7:30 p.m.

Click here to view the agenda.

The Planning Board members are:

Mayor Barberio                      12/31/2025                                         I Mayor

Michael de Pierro                   12/31/2023                                         III Council Rep.

Tom Dinsmore                        12/31/2025                                         IV Regular

Dominic Mele*                        12/31/2023                                         IV Regular

Gordon Meth*                        12/31/2025                                         IV Regular

Nick Napolitano                      12/31/2024                                         IV Regular

Ted Stanziale                         12/31/2023                                         Alternate No. 1

Jennifer Vealey*                     12/31/2023                                        II Muni, Rep.

John Von Achen*                    12/31/2023                                         IV Regular

Vincent Aperawic                    12/31/2024

Stuart Wiser                           Board Planner, ARH

Andrew Cangiano                   Board Engineer, Keller & Kirkpatrick

Joseph Garcia                         Board Attorney, Cleary Giacobbe Alfieri Jacobs

Nora O. Jolie                           Board Secretary

Agenda subject to change without notice
Although the information on this site is believed to be reliable, online postings of meeting agendas are not considered official copies.

Kean University Congratulates Parsippany Students Named to Dean’s List

PARSIPPANY — More than 3,100 students were named to the Fall 2022 Dean’s List at Kean University, including the following Parsippany residents.

“Earning a place on the Dean’s List is a tremendous accomplishment. It demonstrates that each student has gone the extra mile in their coursework to thrive academically and professionally once they graduate,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “This is what we mean when we say Kean Cougars climb higher, and we couldn’t be more proud of their success.”

The following students were named to the Dean’s List, which is based on the successful completion of at least 12 credits with a grade point average of 3.45 or higher:

Amr Abouelmagd, a freshman public health student
Ryan Porcelli, a junior exercise science student
Lark Bancairen, a junior science and technology student
K’mara Register, a senior criminal justice student
Emmanuel Udoh, a senior finance student
Madeline Sanchez, a senior graphic design student
Zobia Afzal, a senior science and technology student

Founded in 1855, Kean University is one of the region’s largest metropolitan institutions of higher education, with a richly diverse student, faculty, and staff population. Kean continues to play a key role in the training of teachers and is a hub of educational, technological, and cultural enrichment serving more than 16,000 students. The University’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate degrees, seven doctoral degree programs, and more than 70 options for graduate study leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications over a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River, Jefferson, and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, Kean University furthers its mission by providing an affordable and accessible world-class education. Visit www.kean.edu.