Council Members Commend Colleagues for Bipartisan Resolution

Frank L. Cahill
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Council Members Commend Colleagues for Bipartisan Resolution

PARSIPPANY — Councilwomen Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson commended their colleagues on the Township Council for unanimously passing resolution R2020-180, urging Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) to take action following recent failures resulting from Tropical Storm Isaias or forego any proposed utility rate increase.

With Parsippany consistently left out in the dark with no electricity following inclement weather, it has become readily apparent that some serious thinking needs to be done regarding upgrades for our aging electrical infrastructure. First Energy, the parent company of JCP&L, continues to take in millions of dollars in profit every year yet consistently fails to make any meaningful upgrades to prevent long-term outages like the ones faced in the aftermath of this most recent storm. To make things worse, JCP&L is asking for permission from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) to raise utility rates while our residents are struggling to make ends meet. Resolution R2020-180 calls on the NJBPU to reject any utility rate increase this year unless a serious commitment is made by JCP&L to prevent a situation like this from occurring in the future.

Councilwoman Janice McCarthy said, “None of our residents should have to wait weeks or even days to have their power restored, especially during a serious pandemic that is forcing many of us to stay at home. Our resolution will make it clear that residents have had enough dealing with these issues storm after storm and the need for JCP&L to do what is right.” Councilwoman Emily Peterson added, “The frequency and consistency with which Parsippany experiences power outages is not limited to major storms or weather events. It’s important that in calm winds, we take the opportunity to investigate and repair the issues that are too often the cause of outages when a major event happens. We are asking for those infrastructure analyses to be done and system improvement to be made.”

Prosecutor Announces the Hiring of New Detectives and Assistant Prosecutors

Frank L. Cahill
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Prosecutor Announces the Hiring of New Detectives and Assistant Prosecutors

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante, and Acting Chief of Investigations Chris Kimker announce the hiring of Detective Matthew G. Belcastro, Assistant Prosecutor Alexander Bennett, Assistant Prosecutor Jessica L. Marshall, and Detective Raquelin Perea.

On Monday, October 5, Prosecutor Knapp, Acting Chief Kimker, Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.Cr., and Honorable Philip J. Maenza, J.S.C. administered the oaths of office to the new Assistant Prosecutors for whom they had served as law clerks. Prosecutor Knapp administered the oaths of office to the two detectives.

Detective Belcastro will be assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts & Administration Division. He was previously a Patrol Officer for the Chatham Borough Police Department. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Kutztown University and a Master of Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Detective Belcastro has earned several professional law enforcement certifications and awards. He also holds administrative positions in volunteer organizations. AP Bennett will be assigned to the Megan’s Law Unit. He graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law and received his Bachelor’s Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He worked as a Law Clerk for the Honorable Philip J. Maenza, J.S.C., Morris/Sussex Vicinage, and as a Student Attorney for the Criminal Justice Clinic at Seton Hall University School of Law, Center for Social Justice. He also interned for the Union County Prosecutor’s Office. AP Marshall will be assigned to the Appellate Unit. She graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law, received her Bachelor’s Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and her Associate’s Degree from the County College of Morris. Prior to serving as a Law Clerk for the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.Cr., Superior Court, Criminal Division, Morris/Sussex Vicinage, she worked as a Student Attorney for the Criminal Justice Clinic at Seton Hall University School of Law and a Legal Intern for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

Detective Perea will be assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts & Administration Division. She began her law enforcement career as a Community Service Officer at Rutgers Department of Public Safety and has also served as a Senior Security Officer and Dispatcher at New Jersey Institute of Technology, Police Officer for the Newark Police Department, and as a Sheriff’s Officer for the Essex County Sheriff’s Office.

She has completed credits towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice at Rutgers University and is a member of several professional law enforcement associations. Prosecutor Knapp welcomed them to the department. Prosecutor Knapp said, “Each of these individuals brings a depth of experience to the MCPO and should be great additions to our staff. We are fortunate to have such talented attorneys and law enforcement professionals join our ranks. They are outstanding additions.”

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp, Detective Matthew Belcastro, and Acting Chief Chris Kimker

Updated Quarantine Advisory Issued for Individuals Traveling to New Jersey

Frank L. Cahill
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Updated Quarantine Advisory Issued for Individuals Traveling to New Jersey

MORRIS COUNTY – Governor Phil Murphy advised individuals traveling to New Jersey from states or territories with significant community spread of COVID-19 to quarantine for a 14-day period from the time of the last contact within the identified state or territory. The updated advisory includes the addition of New Mexico, bringing the total to 35 states and territories. The travel advisory applies to any person arriving from a state or territory with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents or a state with a 10 percent or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average.

As of Tuesday, October 6, there are currently 35 states and territories that meet the criteria stated above: Alabama; Alaska; Arkansas; Colorado; Delaware; Florida; Georgia; Guam; Iowa; Idaho; Indiana; Illinois; Kansas; Kentucky; Louisiana; Minnesota; Missouri; Mississippi; Montana; North Carolina; North Dakota; Nebraska; New Mexico; Nevada; Oklahoma; Puerto Rico; Rhode Island; South Carolina; South Dakota; Tennessee; Texas; Utah; Wisconsin; West Virginia; and Wyoming. 
“We know that COVID-19 is a virus of opportunity, and if we let our guard down and grow complacent, we open a window of opportunity for future outbreaks,” said Governor Murphy. “It remains critically important for anyone arriving in New Jersey from these 35 states and territories to get tested for COVID-19 and self-quarantine for 14 days.”

Travelers and those residents who are returning from impacted states should self-quarantine at their home, hotel, or other temporary lodgings. Individuals should leave the place of self-quarantine only to seek medical care/treatment or to obtain food and other essential items.

It is expected that individuals will follow the public health advisory to self-quarantine. The list of states will be updated on a rolling basis and is accessible here.
 

New Jerseyans Come Together on Organ Donor Enrollment Day

Frank L. Cahill
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New Jerseyans Come Together on Organ Donor Enrollment Day

PARSIPPANY — On October 8, NJ Sharing Network and its many healthcare partners and volunteers throughout the state will work together to register as many organ and tissue donors as possible in celebration of Organ Donor Enrollment Day. The non-profit, federally designated organ procurement organization has set a goal of amassing at least 2,020 new donor registrations on 2020 Organ Donor Enrollment Day. The 2,020 goal helps create a positive spin on the number ‘2020’ as opposed to the negative ‘2020’ references seen virtually everywhere due to the challenges faced this year.

Currently, there are nearly 110,000 Americans – nearly 4,000 of whom live in New Jersey – waiting for a life-saving transplant.

“Organ Donor Enrollment Day is about taking action and inspiring others to learn more about how they can save lives through organ and tissue donation,” said Joseph S. Roth, president, and chief executive officer of NJ Sharing Network. “One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and restore health to over 75 people. I am confident that everyone’s efforts on Organ Donor Enrollment Day will go a long way toward bringing hope to those currently waiting for a transplant.”

In New Jersey, one person dies every three days waiting for an organ transplant. However, the generosity of those in the Garden State is providing hope for the future. New Jersey’s organ and tissue donor registrations continue to rise thanks to strong community education and outreach efforts as well as simplified ways to register as organ and tissue donors are also helping to save more lives. It is now easier than ever for New Jerseyans to register in any of the following options:

  • Online by clicking here.
  • Through the iPhone Health App
  • In-person at your local Motor Vehicle Agency

Another key component of Organ Donor Enrollment Day is encouraging those who register to have a conversation with their family and friends about their decision to donate.

“Donation provides comfort and healing to so many families after losing a loved one. It is so important to talk to your family and share your decision about organ donation so your gift is honored,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, vice president, and chief clinical officer, NJ Sharing Network.

Organ Donor Enrollment Day is deeply personal for NJ Sharing Network’s partners, advocates, and volunteers who are motivated to save and enhance the lives of those in need. Jayla Sorenson of Toms River is just one example. Jayla has a kidney disease that limits her ability to filter and clean her blood. The vivacious 8-year-old loves to dance, play outside, and hug and kiss her family members. But the clock is ticking towards a more critical stage in Jayla’s condition that will eventually involve a pediatric kidney transplant. Jayla and her family actively participate in events and programs to promote organ and tissue donation, including Organ Donor Enrollment Day and NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life with Team Jayla’s Journey.

“It’s all about raising awareness and helping others in need because someday we will be the ones in need,” said James Sorenson, Jayla’s father.

Typically, Organ Donor Enrollment Day features local and regional in-person activities and community events to raise awareness that will not be possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While NJ Sharing Network’s clinical and laboratory team members have continued their around-the-clock efforts to focus on saving and enhancing lives, the organization has developed creative ways to promote its mission virtually in online efforts throughout the pandemic through its robust social media channels, on its website and through targeted e-mails and mailings to its wide circle of supporters. NJ Sharing Network will be providing social media tools that supporters can use. Supporters will also be asked to share their stories about how organ and tissue donation has improved their lives or why they registered as organ donors. 

About NJ Sharing Network
Dedicated to saving lives through organ and tissue donation, NJ Sharing Network is the non-profit organization responsible for the recovery and placement of donated organs and tissue for the nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents waiting for a life-saving transplant. With headquarters in New Providence, NJ, the organization, selected by NJBiz as one of the state’s “Best Places to Work” for the third consecutive year, is also part of the national recovery system, serving the nearly 110,000 people on the national waiting list. To learn more, get involved and register as an organ and tissue donor click here.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – September 21, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – September 21, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – September 21, 2020

Click here to download a copy of the agenda.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board – September 16, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board – September 16, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board – September 16, 2020.

Click here to download the agenda.

Broadway Actress, Grace Field, joins Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany

Frank L. Cahill
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Broadway Actress, Grace Field, joins Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany presented Grace Field with a plaque displaying a microphone in appreciation of her support to Kiwanis.  In addition to providing the entertainment at this year’s New Jersey Kiwanis District Virtual Convention, she has donated her time to fundraisers at Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.  Grace is the newest member of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, joining at their annual installation dinner where she performed for the attendees.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Vice President pins the official Kiwanis Pin on Grace. Photo by Rafael Ortiz Photography
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Laura Wohland presents Grace with the official “Certificate of Membership” welcoming Grace to the Kiwanis family. Photo by Rafael Ortiz Photography

Grace has been featured on NBC’s the Today Show performing with Hugh Jackman and has been in multiple musical theatre productions across the globe.  Ms. Field has sung at theatres including Broadway’s New Amsterdam Theatre, Broadway’s New Victory Theatre, the Barclay Center, The Public Theatre, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and Off Broadway’s New World Stages.  Grace has also had the privilege to work with Broadway’s Alan Menken, Stephen Schwartz, Rebecca Luker, Seth Rudetsky, Anthony Rapp, and others. Ms. Field has also sung with Multi Tony Award Winner Audra McDonald, Cynthia Elviro, Shoshana Bean, and Hollywood walk of fame’s Billy Porter.  Field made her New York Public Theatre debut in Alan Menken’s adaptation of Disney’s HERCULES.  She most recently performed on Broadway in “Disney on Broadway 25th Anniversary Special” with Whoopi Goldberg at the New Amsterdam Theatre! She is a proud member of the Grammy award-nominated and now Tony Award-Winning group Broadway Inspirational Voices in New York City.  Field also is a soloist at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Not only does Grace perform professionally on the stage, but also is a professional pianist, artist, and model.

Field has a huge heart for charity and helping the world through the arts, and has founded Dare to Dream Art Charity which encourages people to donate to local or global charities through the gift of art.

Welcome to the Kiwanis Family Grace!

Letter to the Editor: Vote for BOE candidate, John Titus

Letters to the Editor
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parsippany focusDear Editor:

I am deeply encouraged by the nomination of BOE candidate, John Titus.  I have known John professionally and personally over the last 18 years and do not believe there is a better candidate for the role.

John is dedicated to serving the public as not only an elementary school but a youth volleyball coach and advisor as well.  The most recent example I can provide would be with COVID.  With a halt to all face to face learning, John was tasked with remote learning for his classroom and he pivoted with ease.  Instead of just providing a syllabus to his students, he conducted full lesson plans and was online for additional hours in case they needed additional help.  For volleyball, he proactively created a virtual learning series featuring top professionals from across the country.  The series discussed various mental health topics, game strategy, skill development, and coaching tactics.

John also has a very big heart and is constantly thinking of others’ health and safety.  As his assistant coach at Caldwell University, John always ensured his players were placed in the right situations and as well as helped them create better environments around them.

If selected, I confidently know John will not only excel at his role on the Board of Education but he will be someone who the town members can confidently know their children’s education is in the right hands.

Please join me in voting for John Titus and the rest of his slate for BOE; Aisha Mahmood and Nilesh Bagdai.  456 on your ballot!

Erin Leban
Parsippany

Letter to the Editor: Vote for Tim Berrios for Parsippany Board of Ed

Letters to the Editor
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parsippany focusDear Editor:

Hello Parsippany citizens! Hopefully, by now you’ve received your mail-in ballot. You will see that my father, Tim Berrios is running for re-election for the Parsippany Troy Hills Board of Education (he is #3).

Back in 2013, I was PHS’s BOE student rep. My dad came with me to every meeting for two years. His experience attending these meetings motivated him to become an agent of change run for the BOE in November 2014. He has held this position for six years.

Since being on the board, my father has advocated for taxpayers, teachers, and -most importantly- the students. He has attended a variety of events throughout the years hosted by all schools. You have probably seen him at PHS and PHHS football games, NHS inductions, concerts, elementary school presentations, plays, and graduations. My father beams with pride at these events. He loves seeing Parsippany students doing what they love.

In the current environment, my father continuously tries to problem solve. Teaching in the middle of a pandemic is something that must be taken seriously. My father continues to ask questions, and strive for answers. He hears the feedback from PTHSD staff, Parsippany families, and the educators in his own family. When the district put out their return plan, my father was the first person to suggest holding in-person BOE meetings, since students and teachers would be reporting in buildings.

Do I have a bias? Yes, we share the same last name. I hold that name with pride. My father has the district’s best interests and heart and truly cares about making a difference. He does not use this as an opportunity for political gain. He’s just a person who cares. If you’d like to hear more about his values or what his thoughts are, please feel free to reach out to me so I can put you in touch with him! No matter what, VOTE!
Best,
Kristina Berrios

October is National Fire Prevention Month

Frank L. Cahill
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October is National Fire Prevention Month

PARSIPPANY — Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company will not hold their annual “open house” this year due to COVID 19 safety concerns for neighborhood children, adults, along with the members of the Department.

This year’s national fire prevention theme is “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen” as cooking is one the leading cause of home fires. You can do a lot to prevent kitchen fires. Although you can’t remove every possible source of a kitchen fire, you can minimize fire risks by removing hazards and maintaining your kitchen. Follow these prevention tips to keep your kitchen safe:

  • Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen, especially if you’re cooking in grease or if the oven is at very high heat. Turn off the burner or oven if you need to leave the house or get caught up in a phone call.
  • Keep appliances serviced, clean, and in good repair. Dump the crumb tray and clean out the toaster crumbs periodically from the toaster or toaster oven. Wipe out the microwave.
  • Clean the oven (check for mouse nests especially if you haven’t used your oven recently).
  • Unplug electric appliances when not in use. Toaster ovens, mixers, coffee makers, and so on, continue to draw electricity even when they’re not turned on. So if the wiring is old or faulty, or if the thermostat overheats, a fire could break out.
  • Install a smoke detector near, but not in the kitchen. You don’t want the small amount of smoke or steam that cooking sometimes generates to constantly trigger the alarm — but you do want it to sense an actual kitchen fire.
  • Don’t use metal in the microwave. The sparks can turn into fire or can seriously damage your microwave.
  • Don’t overfill pots or pans with oil or grease. The hot oil or grease, like in this figure, can splatter and cause a fire.   Grease buildup is flammable. A clean stove is a fire-free stove.
  • Always roll up long sleeves and tie back long hair when cooking. You don’t need your beautiful flowing silk sleeves trailing in the spaghetti sauce, and you certainly don’t need to catch on fire!
  • Keep dish towels, pot holders, and paper towels away from the stove. You might have left a burner on by accident, and built-up heat could ignite combustibles left near or on the stove or oven.

RLVFC is also encouraging families to develop a fire safety plan including what do in case of a fire and take fire prevention steps to prevent fires. Children need to learn what to do when they hear a smoke alarm beeping and hear this frequently from their parents.   Families need to share with children the importance of making a fire escape map of their home Below is a rhyme to help your children (and adults also) remember what to do when you hear the smoke alarm beep.  Say each line and have them repeat after you.

The house is on fire  –   Don’t hide, Go outside!
The alarm is beeping  –    Don’t hide, Go outside!
The smoke is getting higher   –    Don’t hide, Go outside!
Wake up if you’re sleeping and hear the alarm    –     Don’t hide, Go outside!

 

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