Five More People in Morristown-Based ‘Straw Donor’ Probe

Frank L. Cahill
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Five More People in Morristown-Based ‘Straw Donor’ Probe

MORRIS COUNTY — Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced charges against five new defendants in the investigation of an alleged straw donor scheme that previously resulted in charges against an attorney, Elizabeth Valandingham. The charges stem from a corruption investigation by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) that led in December 2019 to five former public officials and political candidates being charged with taking bribes.

Valandingham, 47, of Morristown, was charged on June 17, 2020, with false representation for government contracts and misconduct by a corporate official, both second-degree offenses. The charges relate to alleged conduct between 2012 and 2017 at the law firm where she worked.

It is alleged that Valandingham and an unnamed co-conspirator recruited straw donors in a scheme to make illicit campaign contributions on behalf of the law firm, often in excess of the contribution limits, and to avoid disclosure of those contributions. Straw donors are individuals who contribute to a candidate but are unlawfully reimbursed by another person or entity, in this case, the law firm.  Under New Jersey Election Law, it is illegal for a person to reimburse another person for a political contribution or to give or lend another person money to make a contribution to a specific candidate.

The straw donors recruited in the scheme involving Valandingham – including the five individuals charged yesterday – allegedly would routinely write checks on their personal checking accounts and in their own names to various candidates and political committees, while being contemporaneously reimbursed with cash deposits directly into their checking and/or savings accounts.During the course of the scheme, the straw donors collectively contributed and were reimbursed in cash for approximately $239,000 worth of donations.

“New Jersey’s campaign finance and pay-to-play laws are designed to ensure that law firms and other contractors cannot purchase an unfair advantage in the competition for public contracts by making undisclosed or overly large campaign contributions,” said Attorney General Grewal.“We are determined to hold individuals accountable if they seek to distort the political process and public contracting by making illegal contributions through the type of straw donor scheme alleged here.”

Each of the following straw donors allegedly made tens of thousands of dollars in contributions to various candidates and party committees only to be reimbursed by the law firm with cash deposits into one or more of his or her bank or financial accounts. Each was charged yesterday by complaint-summons with fourth-degree concealment or misrepresentation of contributions.

  1. Vanessa Brown, 40, of West Caldwell.
  2. Christopher Brown, 37, of West Caldwell.
  3. Ricardo Balanzateguimaldo, 40, of Bogota.
  4. Erin O’Reilly, aka Erin DeMauro, 41, of Lincoln Park.
  5. Suzanne P. Gayet, 63, of Boonton.

Valandingham was previously charged in connection with her role in preparing and submitting annual proposals to municipalities for the law firm to be awarded public contracts for legal services. In submitting proposals through which the firm successfully secured such contracts, she allegedly deliberately failed to disclose local political contributions the firm made during the prior year. The municipalities required that such contributions be disclosed as part of the public contracting process, but Valandingham allegedly failed to disclose the contributions made by the straw donors and instead indicated the firm made no reportable political contributions. Valandingham was charged specifically in connection with proposals for contracts in Bloomfield and Mount Arlington.

The defendants initially charged in the OPIA investigation – former Jersey City School Board President Sudhan Thomas, former State Assemblyman and Bayonne mayoral candidate Jason O’Donnell, former Morris County Freeholder John Cesaro, former Mount Arlington Councilman John Windish, and former Morris County freeholder candidate Mary Dougherty – face charges of second-degree bribery in official and political matters for allegedly taking thousands of dollars in bribes from a cooperating witness in the form of campaign contributions. In return, they allegedly promised the cooperating witness – a tax attorney – that they would vote or use their official authority or influence to hire or continue to hire his law firm for lucrative government legal work.

Valandingham and the defendants charged as straw donors are charged in connection with conduct that is not directly related to the bribery allegations against those other five defendants.

The investigation is being conducted by the OPIA Corruption Bureau, under the leadership of OPIA Director Thomas Eicher. Deputy Attorneys General John A. Nicodemo and Anthony Robinson are prosecuting the cases, under the supervision of Corruption Bureau Chief Peter Lee and Counsel to the Director Anthony Picione. Deputy Attorney General Pearl Minato, Acting OPIA Chief of Staff, previously served as lead attorney on the investigation.

Fourth-degree charges carry a sentence of up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Attorney General Grewal created the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability in September 2018 to combat corruption and strengthen public confidence in government institutions. In December 2019, the Attorney General issued a directive codifying OPIA and making it a permanent part of the Attorney General’s Office. That directive established the OPIA Corruption Bureau as the lead office within the Department of Law & Public Safety for the investigation and prosecution of state criminal violations involving corruption and abuse of public trust.

OPIA has a toll-free Tipline 1-844-OPIA-TIPS for the public to report corruption. The AG’s Office has an Anti-Corruption Reward Program that offers a reward of up to $25,000 for tips leading to a conviction for a crime involving public corruption. Information is posted by clicking here.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

New Jersey’s Indian American Community Endorses Rosemary Becchi

Frank L. Cahill
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New Jersey’s Indian American Community Endorses Rosemary Becchi

PARSIPPANY — US IMPACT, the largest Political Action Committee advocating for Indian Americans in the US, endorsed Rosemary Becchi for election to the United States House of Representatives to represent New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District.

“Rosemary Becchi values the strength and impacts the Indian community has in New Jersey,” said Khush Rawlley Co-Founder & Board Member of US IMPACT and the Vice-Chair of Indian American Republican Women (IARW). “She is committed to standing up for the issues our members care about, such as immigration reforms, merit-based education, and supporting our small businesses. On behalf of New Jersey’s Indian American community in the 11th Congressional District, we are proud to endorse Rosemary Becchi for Congress. She will be a strong voice for Indian Americans in Congress.”

US IMPACT has active members and volunteers spread over 26 states. It engages in grassroots level resource mobilization and has been at the forefront of advocacy for Immigration Reforms. They have been extremely selective on the candidates whom they are endorsing for the upcoming elections. These include multiple rounds of interviews of the candidate and a deep assessment of a candidate’s policies and ideologies.

The influence of the Indian community is evident in New Jersey, as the state boasts the second largest Indian-born population in America. These communities are a crucial part of New Jersey’s culture and economy, and Rosemary Becchi is a leader who will fight for their needs in Washington.

Letter to the Editor: Defunding Police Will Bring Devastating Consequences

Letters to the Editor
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Letter to the Editor: Defunding Police Will Bring Devastating Consequences

parsippany focusDear Editor:

Speaking as a former police officer in Parsippany-Troy Hills, the movement toward defunding our local police departments would be disastrous for our local communities and jeopardize all residents’ safety given all the rioting and anarchy that has been playing out for the last 100 days in cities throughout the country from Los Angeles to Chicago, from Seattle and Portland, Philadelphia to New York City.

The rioters continue to devastate the cities and incite fear in our residents and small business owners with lawlessness, looting, homicides, arson, physical assaults on random citizens, and law enforcement officers.  Property damage from this rioting and looting has reportedly topped at least five billion dollars. It will take a decade for these cities to recover from this damage and return to some type of normalcy.

What the public needs to understand is defunding the police department would reduce important professional training and development enabling officers to better serve and protect the general public. Defunding police would hamper the agencies’ ability to purchase equipment such as body cameras which keep departments accountable to their communities.

Defunding the police would rob departments from being accredited and deprive them of offering officers critical de-escalation training necessary to assist individuals with special needs and mental health issues.

Communities who defund police departments would not get rid of bad cops, rather they will drive away good cops and disable their towns and cities from successfully recruiting and retaining officers to serve residents well.

While I do agree there is always a need to re-evaluate police policies and tactics in the interest of enhanced community relations and transparency, the irrational, reckless and reactionary decisions to defund police departments to placate partisan politics will have dangerous and long-term consequences in our communities – especially in areas with already historical levels of violence.

For the past three months, we have all been watching in the news what has become a disturbing breakdown in society at the hands of lawlessness. The outright physical attacks on innocent bystanders and law enforcement officers are horrific. I would have never thought this anarchy would happen in our great country.

The law enforcement community is in itself a rich, diverse group representing every ethnic and religion sworn to serve and protect their community of every ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic background.

The men and women of law enforcement work tirelessly day and night to ensure the public’s welfare and safety. The public can’t idly stand by watching these criminals violently assault officers who are just doing their jobs. Once that front line of police protection is penetrated, there will be nothing to protect you and your family.

Dr. Louis A. Valori, President 

TheValoriSecurityGroup.com

Obituary of Marc Robert Licciardi, 22

Frank L. Cahill
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Obituary of Marc Robert Licciardi, 22

PARSIPPANY — Marc Robert Licciardi, 22, tragically passed away on August 2, in Los Angeles, CA.  Marc Robert was born on August 3, 1997.  He graduated from Parsippany High School, Class of 2016.  Marc attended NYU  and studied for a year in Italy. Marc had many passions – his music, traveling, writing, and defending those who were disenfranchised.  His love for his family and his dual heritage of Irish and Italian were sources of great pride for him.  He relished his time spent in Italy, Ireland, and France.

 

Marc getting ready for a Civics debate at Parsippany High School

Marc Robert is survived by his mother, Kerry (Tim) McCormick, his father, Marc M. (Joanna) Licciardi, and his adoring sister, Deirdre, and loving brother Nicky.  In addition, Marc was blessed to have step-siblings Connor and Kiernan McCormick, and Krystian Borychowski.  Marc Robert leaves behind his loving grandparents Robert and Geraldine Creighton, and Paula Licciardi, as well as many aunts, uncles, and 32  cousins who loved him deeply.  Marc was greeted in heaven by his grandfather, Thomas Licciardi, Sr., who passed away on July 26.

On Wednesday, August 12, there will be a walkthrough visitation for family and close friends until 7:00 p.m. at  Dangler, Lewis, and Carey Funeral Home, 312 West Main Street, Boonton. At 10:00 a.m .on Thursday, August 13, there will be a private Mass of Christian Burial at Saint Catherine of Siena Church in Mountain Lakes.

A memorial service will be held on Long Island on August 22, as well. Family and friends will be notified when details are finalized.  Donations may be made in Marc’s honor to Hope House Ministries, 1 High Street, Port Jefferson, NY, 11777, or at www.hhm.org.

During the COVID 19 pandemic, all persons entering the Funeral Home will be required to wear a face mask or face covering throughout their stay. Likewise, all social distancing rules must be adhered to. Gathering together in groups should not happen. A continued flow throughout the facility will aid in keeping all of us safe, with everyone having an opportunity to pay their respects.

 

Parsippany Community Update August 12, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Community Update August 12, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Prior to last week’s tropical storm, our state had seen a worrying increase in the transmission of cases. New Jersey’s transmission rate spiked briefly to about 1.5, a level of viral transmission rate we haven’t seen since April. 

Parsippany Chamber Welcomes New Member: Venture X

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Chamber Welcomes New Member: Venture X

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome new member, Venture X.

With coworking spaces replacing traditional office environments, what sets Venture X apart from the growing number of flexible workspace options cropping up all over the globe? Unlike other flexible workspaces with their whimsical fusion of networking and uncharted possibilities, Venture X is geared towards the established business professional looking for upscale surroundings at locations that are dressed for success.

Their contemporary, design-forward spaces offer a motivating place to not only launch your business but to grow your business and expand your brand. At Venture X, they focus on creating engaging, motivating work environments for professionals and entrepreneurs that inspire our diverse membership to collaborate.

Venture X is also unique in that their spaces are owned and operated by local entrepreneurs, just like you. They understand your market and are here to provide an environment that will gear you for success.

Owner, Mahender Gorrai is a resident of New Jersey for over 28 years and has worked in IT across various industries. Mahender has a master’s in computer science from NJIT. He has identified a transformational need in how we work and collaborate both as individuals and corporations and hence started a flexible, comfortable office space business located at 8 Campus Drive, Parsippany. Call (973) 969-3850. www.venturex.com

Greater Parsippany Rewards members receive a free day pass, by clicking here.

 

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents, and volunteers that provides education, information and networking opportunities to the Parsippany area. For more information call (973) 402-6400 or click here.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Agenda Meeting – August 11, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Agenda Meeting – August 11, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Agenda Meeting – August 11, 2020

Click here to view the agenda.

CCM Releases Plan to Reopen Campus on a Limited Basis

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM Releases Plan to Reopen Campus on a Limited Basis

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) has released its COVID-19 Return to Campus Fall 2020 Plan, (Click here) which is designed to minimize risk and maximize safety for students, faculty, and staff while continuing high-quality educational offerings.

“Our plan is to return thoughtfully, incrementally and with full consideration to the health and well-being of our students, employees, and campus visitors,” said Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, CCM president. “The Return to Campus Plan has been carefully designed to keep the college safe as we continue to provide an exceptional educational experience for our students.”

The plan calls for no more than 25 percent of instruction to take place in person, while the majority of the college’s classes and all support services will continue to be offered virtually.

The reopening is designed to support programs that require hands-on learning, such as those in engineering and health care while placing a priority on protecting the health and well-being of the campus community.

The plan adheres to all federal, state and local guidelines; implements guidance from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, local health departments, and professional organizations; and incorporates recommendations from the campus community.

To ensure the health and safety of students, staff, and faculty, CCM has taken several measures as it aims to continue its high-quality learning environment for the more than 10,000 college credit and workforce students it serves annually.

These measures include disinfecting the campus continuously, optimizing HVAC systems to protect against the spread of the virus, and providing for social distancing through the removal or blocking off of seats and one-way signage in hallways similar to what is being used in grocery stores to direct foot traffic. An additional 1,632 square feet of acrylic shielding is being installed throughout campus.

CCM has also purchased 18,000 disposable face masks for those who may require one. More than 170 wall-mounted hand sanitizer stations are located throughout campus and tabletop hand sanitizers will be readily available.

Anyone who comes to campus will be required to wear a face-covering and display a college-issued identification card, engage in proper social distancing, and participate in a contactless temperature check before entering any building. Faculty, staff, and students must complete a virtual orientation before coming back to campus.

Those who wish to visit the campus will be asked to check-in with CCM’s Department of Public Safety in building 675 Route 10 East upon their arrival. Visitors seeking greater clarification and assistance prior to entering the campus can also call (973) 328-5550.

To further maximize campus safety, all instruction in person will take place with smaller than normal class sizes.

To provide all students with as much flexibility and support as possible, fall classes will be offered in three formats, including remotely with video conferencing and regularly scheduled class meetings. This format is similar to live classes. CCM will also offer traditional online courses that do not require attendance at a specific time and allow the greatest amount of flexibility. Students in programs requiring hands-on learning can enroll in hybrid courses where courses meet on campus and online. The college’s student support services will operate largely online.

The CCM library will continue to provide online services as well as curbside pickup and delivery of materials to students, staff, and faculty. The library will continue to offer limited online and telephonic services to county residents. When deemed safe, the CCM library will allow limited visits by CCM students, staff, and faculty on appointment.

CCM is committed to serving its students and ensuring employers continue to enjoy hiring graduates of skill and talent, especially in critical areas including manufacturing, health care, technology, business, and more. The use of advanced technologies, an exceptionally talented faculty and dedicated support staff make it possible for individuals to achieve their educational and career goals without having to take a gap year.

CCM annually awards more than $12 million in financial aid for tuition and has more than $1 million in federal CARES funds to support students experiencing financial hardships beyond tuition.

“Quite simply, there has never been a better time to enroll, said Dr. Bette Simmons, vice president of Student Development and Enrollment Management.

The Return to Campus Plan, along with numerous other resources, is housed on the CCM COVID-19 Information and Resource Center on the college’s website.

Registration for the Fall 2020 Semester at CCM is still taking place. Classes start on September 9. To find out more click here.

Spencer Savings Bank Awards Almost $25,000 in Scholarships To Local Students



Frank L. Cahill
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Spencer Savings Bank Awards Almost $25,000 in Scholarships To Local Students



PARSIPPANY — Spencer Savings Bank was pleased to continue its scholarship program this year and award almost $25,000 in scholarships to both high school and middle school students throughout New Jersey. The scholarships will help families in New Jersey pay for their child’s education. Students were selected, by their school, for high academic achievement and community service participation.

Robert Bednarczyk, Parsippany Hills High School, and Ryan Aemisegeo, Central Middle School were local recipients.

“We are very proud to continue our annual scholarship program this year,” stated Jose B. Guerrero, Spencer’s Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. “Now more than ever, families and communities need as much support as possible. Education is very important to us here at Spencer, and we are pleased to help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with it. Congratulations to the class of 2020! We are counting on you to do great work towards a bright and hopeful future!”

Each high school student received a $1,000 check and each middle school student received a tax-advantaged Coverdell Education Savings Account (CESA) with $500 deposited to encourage future savings.

Spencer Savings Bank, a leading New Jersey-based community bank, has been serving its local communities with integrity and pride for more than 75 years. The bank has over $3 billion in total assets and operates 20 financial centers throughout New Jersey. Spencer specializes in delivering premier banking products and services for consumers and businesses. Visit SpencerSavings.com for more information.

Dannah Kaplan Receives the 2020 John L. Philip Memorial American Sign Language Award From College of the Holy Cross

Frank L. Cahill
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Dannah Kaplan Receives the 2020 John L. Philip Memorial American Sign Language Award From College of the Holy Cross

PARSIPPANY — Dannah Kaplan of Lake Hiawatha, an Accounting major, has received the 2020 John L. Philip Memorial American Sign Language Award from College of the Holy Cross.

The John L. Philip Memorial American Sign Language Award is given to a graduating student who has demonstrated an interest in, and motivation to learn, American Sign Language (ASL) and to bring that learning to life. This student has integrated his/her classroom knowledge of ASL and Deaf culture with respect for, and interaction with, members of the Deaf Community.

The College of the Holy Cross, in Worcester, Mass., is among the nation’s leading liberal arts institutions. A highly selective, four-year, exclusively undergraduate college of 3,100 students, Holy Cross is renowned for offering a rigorous, personalized education in the Jesuit, Catholic tradition. Since its founding in 1843, Holy Cross has made a positive impact in society by graduating students who distinguish themselves as thoughtful leaders in business, professional, and civic life.

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