PARSIPPANY — On January 4, 2021, the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills filed their notice to appeal the December 14, 2020 decision made by the New Jersey Appellate Court.
The Township’s notice of appeal was sent to the Clerk of the NJ Supreme Court, Heather Baker. The two-Judge panel of the Appellate Court who heard the matter and issued their opinion on December 14, 2020, were Judges Hoffman and Currier. (Click here to view the Township’s notice of appeal to the NJ Supreme Court.)
In their ruling Judge’s Hoffman and Currier stated in part “We are convinced the Judge’s (trial Judge) response had the capacity to mislead the jury and was clearly capable of leading the jury to an unjust result. Based upon our review of the trial record, if properly instructed, a reasonable jury could have found that upper-level supervisory personnel within the Police Department retaliated against Plaintiff for engaging in protected whistleblower activities. Plaintiff presented substantial evidence that would support a determination that other supervisory employees in the Police Department – the deputy chief and one or more captains – engaged in retaliatory action against the plaintiff.”
When referring to former Chief Paul Philipps’ testimony at trial, the Appellate Court stated “Plaintiff presented compelling evidence that this response was clearly incorrect and constituted either a careless misstatement or a deliberate lie.”
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Paul Philipps
At the September 17, 2019, Council meeting, Mayor Soriano stated on the record when speaking about Captain Carifi the following: “Look I maintain it, that last year once I became fully aware of the facts and got behind the wheel and saw what had happened and saw the documents that he was targeted as retaliation.” This portion of Mayor Soriano’s statement can be found at the 53:02 mark of this recorded Council meeting. (Click here to listen to Mayor Soriano at the September 17, 2019 meeting.)
“Regardless of the position one holds in this matter, this is an issue of Soriano unable to keep his campaign promise as to when he was a candidate, all he could talk about was how he was going to settle this case once and for all. Yet another Soriano stumble in upholding the pledges he makes to get elected,” said Mayoral Candidate Louis Valori.
“The situation needs to be brought to resolution, it’s gone on through two administrations now and should be brought to a conclusion one way or the other among the involved parties. A lot of time and monies are being wasted we have many more important issues that needed to be addressed in town,” said Chris Mazzarella. According to sources, Mazzarella will be filing a nomination for Mayor.
Each year, the Supreme Court receives approximately 7,000 to 8,000 petitions for certiorari, of which about 1% (approximately 80–100), are granted plenary review with oral arguments, and an additional 50 to 60 are disposed of without plenary review.
PARSIPPANY — Plans by a developer to demolish the 33,736 square foot office building at 169 Johnson Road and replacing the structure with an 87-unit-three-story over a one-story parking garage. The existing two-story office building is known as Brevent Plaza. The application was approved 5-2, with Mr. Mele and Mr. Aperawic voting against the project.
The 33,736 square fot office building has a full-height landscaped atrium. The building features a reception/security desk in the lobby, an open foyer, and skylights.
The applicant, 169 Johnson Road, LLC. received approval for preliminary and final major site plan approval to construct the proposed four-story building at the Planning Board Meeting of December 21, 2020. The project was approved in the Parsippany-Troy Hills Fair Share Housing Center.
Outline of the property of 169 Johnson Road
The complex will include 69 market-priced units and 18 affordable housing units.
The existing office building was constructed in 1982. The property is located on Block: 200 Lot: 8.
In April 2019, the Township executed a settlement agreement with the Fair Share Housing Center, to resolve litigation regarding Parsippany’s Prior and Third Round fair share affordable housing obligations. The agreement, which was accepted by the Court at a fairness hearing on June 21, 2019, sets forth the extent of the Township’s obligations and describes the compliance plan components by which Parsippany proposes to address those obligations. Part of this obligation has already been achieved in prior rounds, while other housing plan components will be undertaken through July 1, 2025, the end of the Third Round.
The Settlement Agreement identifies the following fair share obligations for the Township for the period from 1987 through July 1, 2025:
● Present Need (Rehabilitation Share): 190 units
● Prior Round (1987-1999) Obligation: 664 units
● Third Round (1999-2025) Obligation: 1,314 units
NEW JERSEY — Former N.J. Republican Chair Doug Steinhardt announced, “unfortunately, unforeseen professional obligations have made it untenable for me to continue in this race as a candidate for Governor.”
Steinhardt who stepped down as head of the state GOP to run for governor — also thanked his supporters, saying “your message was heard loud and clear, and you do have a voice.” Together we will rise above, and we will ultimately Take Back New Jersey.
Steinhardt, a 52-year-old Warren County attorney, said in a statement he was exiting the battle for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic Governor Phil Murphy.
He did not specify what those obligations are.
Steinhardt is a partner in Florio Perrucci Steinhardt Cappelli Tipton & Taylor LLC .
WASHINGTON – As the U.S. Small Business Administration continues implementation of the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act, signed into law by President Trump on December 27, 2020, SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza made the following statement in regards to Section 325:
“Small business is big business in America, and this Administration will continue to extend a lifeline to small business owners during this critical time. Congress charged the SBA with making debt relief payments (principal, interest, and fee payments) under Section 1112 of the CARES Act to help borrowers in SBA’s 7(a), 504, and Microloan programs; and now SBA is working expeditiously to implement the newly enacted assistance.
The new law extends SBA debt relief authority, allowing the Administration to continue alleviating adverse economic effects of COVID-19 for small businesses with SBA loans. Since April last year, the SBA has made over $7.1 billion in payments across 1,819,130 loans on behalf of these borrowers. It’s important to note that these firms were also initially able to access capital because of the SBA federal guarantee.”
The SBA is determining how much additional debt relief assistance can be provided to SBA borrowers with the newly issued Congressional appropriation. Debt Relief guidance will soon be posted on the SBA website.
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany can boast of having several outstanding Italian restaurants. Notable among them, the extremely popular, Zagat rated Eccola Italian Bistro. Situated in a small strip mall located right off Route 46 west, nestled between a bank and an Indian Market, Eccola has been in business since 1990, making it a staple among the area’s finer restaurants.
A family-owned and operated business renown for serving delicious, innovative, authentic old-world style “house-made pasta”, as well as an extensive menu of Northern Italian and creative Italian American cuisine in a warm, cozy, casual, yet classy setting. Let me be blunt, you are not going to be around for 31 years if you are not doing something right! Do not be deceived by the relatively plain, unassuming, laid-back strip mall exterior, as a pleasant and impressive surprise awaits you within.
Once inside you will encounter a surprising ambiance, that in my opinion is part elegant and part casual, giving off a friendly, relaxing vibe in an upscale looking, beautifully appointed dining room with tasteful décor throughout. If you are looking for a romantic evening out this would be a restaurant to consider. Eccola’s commitment to cleanliness and excellence is also evident throughout. From their tasteful décor, wooden accents, recessed lighting, well-spaced tables, open kitchen, gorgeous wooden bar, and wood-burning over (both of which unfortunately is presently unavailable) this is a return visit location.
We were immediately welcomed and offered our choice of several tables.
Everyone was pleasant and extremely gracious. Our waitress, Estella, could not have been nicer or more accommodating. We were made to feel very much at home from start to finish. Service could not have been better, prompt, professional, and friendly. Our table was set up beautifully with sparkling glassware, nice white linen tablecloths, and plenty of fresh, cold water and hot, crispy bread and butter. As we pondered our appetizer selections, our choice of wine, recommended by Estella, was brought out, professionally uncorked, and tasted. It was clear we were in for a pleasant dining experience.
As a side note, I know some people are curious and confused about the name of the restaurant. I have one friend who tells me he has passed Eccola a hundred times and always assumed it was an Indian restaurant based on the name and the fact that it is attached to an Indian Market. Simply, Eccola is an Italian word that translates to “Here She Is”. And, for those interested in such things, Eccola has been frequented in the past by celebrities such as the Jonas Brothers and Britney Spears.
Owner Janet Tabmurin with Patrick Minutillo
On this visit, Chef Nino Tabmurin was unfortunately not available, but I was fortunate to have an opportunity to meet with the very pleasant and personable co-owner, Janet Tabmurin, who told me that Eccola’s loyal, longtime customers and staff are like family and it is only with the continued support that they have been able to survive through these hard times. After a brief conversation, it was evident that Janet’s sincere appreciation for both her customers and staff was clearly heartfelt. Janet explained it is her husband, Nino, who takes care of the front of the house and serves as the Head Chef and face of Eccola, while she often serves as the pastry chef behind the scenes. Nino and Janet’s culinary journey began in 1971 when Nino’s career started off in a Livingston area pizzeria which then eventually led to the Chessman Bistro, which Nino took over in 1974. As mention, in 1990 Eccola was opened and the rest is history. In those 50 years, Nino and Janet’s kitchens and dining rooms have served as the training ground for some of our areas now most well-known and admired chefs and restauranteurs.
At 73, and after 50 plus years in the food industry, Nino reportedly still retains his great love and passion for what he does, and does so well, and finds serving his customers with great food and top-notch hospitality very gratifying and rewarding. What is evident is that all his long time, regularly returning customers and staff clearly agree.
House Made Italian Meatballs (Marinara Sauce and Dollop of Fresh Ricotta Cheese)
For our appetizers we started off with one of Eccola’s Daily Specials, House Made Italian Meatballs (Marinara Sauce and Dollop of Fresh Ricotta Cheese). The meatballs were so savory you could taste the fresh ingredients, along with a great texture and delicious marinara sauce that perfectly complemented the meatballs it was clearly a great choice. The Melanzane Alla Griglia & Gorgonzola (Grilled Eggplant Topped with Gorgonzola Cheese over Tuscan Crostini, Garnished with Roasted Peppers and EVOO) was perfectly executed, well prepared, and seasoned exactly right, and the evident taste of Gorgonzola was a treat.
House Made Linguini with Seafood Fra Diavolo
The menu offered one tantalizing dish after another, but I finally ordered as my entrée, the House Made Linguini with Seafood Fra Diavolo (Jumbo Shrimp, Calamari, Sea Scallops, St. Peters Fish, Clams and Mussels in a Zesty Marinara Sauce over al dente pasta). Outstanding dish loaded with flavor. An abundant portion of fresh, assorted seafood served over an ample serving of house-made al dente linguini pasta, all extremely tasty, beautifully prepared, and presented.
House Made Gnocchi
The House Made Gnocchi (Topped with Pan-Seared Filet Mignon Tips, Sauteed Mushroom and Onion finished in a Barolo Red Wine Demi Sauce Garnished with Crumbled Gorgonzola Cheese) was also mouth-wateringly delicious. The gnocchi, which I had to try in addition to my own meal, met all my expectations and more, and it certainly deserves two thumbs up.
Yes, I know, I am a gavone. I had planned on trying one of Eccola’s highly praised desserts, but I could not eat another bite, so we finished off a great meal with a nice cappuccino and put it in the books as another fantastic dining experience.
If you have not visited Eccola yet I would suggest you give it a try.
And please come out and support all our small, independent local businesses in any way you can.
Patrick Minutillo
COVID 19 Health and Safety Measures Strongly Enforced, Dine-In, Takeout, Curbside pickup, Small Strip Mall Parking Available, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options.
Eccola Italian Bistro is located at 1082 Route 46, Parsippany. For reservations or additional information call (973) 334-8211 or click here.
Reservations are required and limited due to regulations mandated by the state of New Jersey.
Walk-ins are welcome and will be accommodated by table availability.
MORRIS COUNTY — The County of Morris and Atlantic Health System joined New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy in a huge step forward in the fight against COVID-19 by officially opening the doors to the Morris County Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Center. This facility, housed in a former Sears store at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall, will eventually deliver thousands of doses of vaccine a week in accordance with the phased eligibility system provided by the State of New Jersey.
Currently open to all phase 1A health care workers, law enforcement officers, and firefighters, the COVID-19 Vaccination Center or “mega-site” will deliver vaccinations using the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine. Reservations will be made using an on-line registration form, a link to which can be found at the Atlantic Health System website. Appointments for second doses will be made on-site (the Moderna vaccine requires a second dose approximately four weeks after the initial dose).
To sign up for an appointment at the Morris County Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Center click here or click here.
“The arrival of safe and effective vaccines represents a landmark moment in our fight against COVID-19, making this center a place of hope and healing for our entire region,” said Brian Gragnolati, President and CEO, Atlantic Health System. “On behalf of patients and caregivers across New Jersey, I want to thank Governor Murphy and Morris County leaders for their tremendous support and partnership. Together, we are taking the next big step forward in protecting our friends, neighbors, and communities. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunity to receive their vaccinations as soon as they are eligible.”
“This is a tremendous logistical undertaking by Morris County in partnership with Atlantic Health System and the State of New Jersey. Our Offices of Public Health and Emergency Management worked tirelessly through the holiday season with Atlantic Health to identify and transform an empty retail space into a large scale, safe, secure regional vaccination facility,” said Stephen H. Shaw, Director of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners. “Morris County remains steadfast in its commitment to allocate the resources necessary to protect public health. We anticipate being able to inoculate as many as 2,400 individuals daily at this facility. Our thanks go out to Atlantic Health for its contributions of staff and assets, Governor Murphy for his support, everyone in our Offices of Public Health and Emergency Management, the National Guard, our Sheriff, and all the healthcare workers who have made this possible.” Gragnolati, President and CEO, Atlantic Health System. “On behalf of patients and caregivers across New Jersey, I want to thank Governor Murphy and Morris County leaders for their tremendous support and partnership. Together, we are taking the next big step forward in protecting our friends, neighbors, and communities. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunity to receive their vaccinations as soon as they are eligible.”
The first floor, 30,000 square feet of the former Sears store, was converted from shuttered retail space to a vaccination mega-site in less than four weeks. Initially able to administer one thousand doses per week (contingent on vaccine supply), the Regional COVID-19 Vaccination
The Center will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The goal is to eventually be able to administer 2,400 doses per day (contingent on vaccine supply), from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., seven days a week.
Governor Murphy (center) toured the vaccine center with Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw (left of Governor). Also touring were AHS CEO Brian Gragnolati (far right), U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (right of Governor), and state Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli (far left).
“Throughout this pandemic, our first responders have continued to save lives and protect our communities, and I am proud today that we are able to provide them with this added level of protection as they continue to do their jobs,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “When we’re ready to move forward, this site will serve as one of six mega-sites for the general public to receive their vaccinations. With hundreds of thousands of preregistrations already received, we know there will be a strong demand when that day arrives.”
All sworn law enforcement and fire professionals in New Jersey are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, which is estimated to include about 55,000 individuals. These first responders are the first individuals in Phase 1B to become eligible for vaccination. EMS professionals, also considered first responders, are already eligible for the vaccine under Phase 1A as health care workers.
“We’re all used to charging head-on into potentially dangerous situations, but COVID-19 has added a whole new layer of uncertainty and change for all of us,” said John Alderton, a career firefighter and EMT with the Morris Township Fire Department. “This vaccine is the first step of us moving in the right direction. Thank you Governor Murphy for bringing this vaccine to not only first responders but hopefully in the near future, to every New Jersey resident.”
To help ensure the safety of everyone inside, the building features 16 air purifiers that turn over the air every nine minutes. An estimated 100 county workers, Atlantic Health team members, sheriff’s officers, and National Guard are on site today and their ranks are expected to expand to 150 when the center is at full capacity (contingent on vaccine supply).
“This Mega Center is a wonderful example of a great partnership between the State, County, and Atlantic Health. I give the Morris County Commissioners and the Morris County Sheriff a great deal of credit for once again being ahead of the curve and making sure Morris County is at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19. Morris County always seems to rise to the occasion when a response like this is necessary for the public health, safety, and welfare of our residents,” said state Sen. Anthony M. Bucco, who also visited the center.
The Morris County Regional COVID-19 Vaccination Center is one of six mega-sites planned for New Jersey, with other locations in Gloucester County (Rowan College of South Jersey in Sewell – also scheduled to open today), East Rutherford (The Meadowlands), Edison (New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center), Burlington County (The Moorestown Mall) and Atlantic City (The Atlantic City Convention Center).
Morris County Commissioners Stephen Shaw, Tayfun Selen, and John Krickus touring the vaccine center prior to its official opening
Joining Commissioner Shaw, Gragnolati and Gov. Murphy in a tour of the facility that was led by Scott DiGiralomo, Morris County Director of Law and Public Safety, were state Department of Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal, Colonel Patrick Callahan of the New Jersey State Police and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (11th Dist).
PARSIPPANY — Delta Dental of New Jersey announced it is donating $250,000 to three organizations in New Jersey to combat food insecurity caused by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The funds will support the Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside, Fulfill in Neptune, and The Food Bank of South Jersey in Pennsauken. The three organizations will dedicate the funds to help food pantries with capital needs, such as refrigerators, storage shelving, and delivery trucks.
“The pandemic has created a hunger crisis with more people than ever before relying on food pantries to feed their families,” said Dennis Wilson, president, and CEO of Delta Dental of New Jersey. “We are thankful for organizations like Community Foodbank of NJ, Fulfill, and The Food Bank of Southern NJ that help ease this burden, and we are humbled to provide this vital support so that families across the state can feed their loved ones.”
Delta Dental of New Jersey, through employee donations and volunteerism, as well as corporate giving, has supported food banks for many years. In addition, the Delta Dental of New Jersey Foundation has provided more than $20 million in grant funding since 1986 to provide access to dental care for uninsured children, seniors, developmentally disabled, and veterans throughout New Jersey and Connecticut.
“We salute Delta Dental for stepping up at this time of urgent need to help shore up the delivery of food to hungry families in our communities,” said Hans Dekker, president of the Community Foundation of New Jersey, which is coordinating the initiative on behalf of Delta Dental of New Jersey.
