Taj Khokhar Joins Parsippany Kiwanis

PARSIPPANY — Taj Khokhar was one of the newest members to join the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. Club member Connie Keller sponsored Taj into the club.

Club President Carol Tiesi said, “Kiwanis is something so good that each of us loves to share it. What better way to show our love for our club and our community than to welcome a new member to our club? Today, we’re very pleased to welcome Taj to our club. We welcome Taj to our global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world, one child and one community at a time.  It is not religious-based or partisan in any way.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany supports ten K-Kids clubs, Lake Parsippany Elementary School, Eastlake Elementary School, Intervale School, Mt. Tabor Elementary School, Littleton Elementary School, Lake Hiawatha Elementary School, Troy Hills Elementary School, Northvail Elementary School, Knollwood School, and Rockaway Meadow Elementary School, two builders clubs, Central Middle School and Brooklawn Middle School; two Key Clubs, Parsippany Hills High School and Parsippany High School and one Aktion Club.

If you are interested in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, contact President Carol Tiesi. Click here to view the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany website.

Applications are Now Open for the 2024-25 School Year at Preschool Advantage

MORRIS COUNTY — Preschool Advantage is currently accepting applications for tuition assistance for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. Families demonstrating financial need and a strong commitment to education are encouraged to apply through the Preschool Advantage website. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by March 1, with later submissions considered based on fund availability.

With only 25 percent of New Jersey’s school districts offering free public preschool, many families struggle to afford tuition fees. Preschool Advantage collaborates with 28 reputable preschools in Morris and Somerset counties to provide access to quality preschool education for financially challenged families. Eligible families, with earnings of up to $80,000 annually depending on family size, have received support since 1995, totaling over 1,500 families throughout the region.

In the 2023-2024 academic year, Preschool Advantage assisted 106 children with tuition funding and aims to support an additional 100 in 2024. To apply and view the list of partner preschools, click here or contact (973) 532-2501.”

Routine Traffic Stop Ends in DUI Arrest for Parsippany-Troy Hills Man

PARSIPPANY — During a DUI stop on Saturday, February 17, at approximately 9:00 p.m., Denville Township Police apprehended a man wanted on a warrant from Denville Township. The police had pulled over a vehicle on Route 10 for a “maintenance of lamps” violation, as its rear license plate lights were not functioning.

Subsequent investigation revealed the driver to be Jose Cardona-Ramirez, 29, from Parsippany-Troy Hills. Allegedly, Cardona-Ramirez was operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Following his apprehension, it was uncovered that Cardona-Ramirez had an outstanding warrant from Denville Township Municipal Court. He now faces a litany of charges, including DUI, careless driving, reckless driving, driving without a license, maintenance of lamps violation, and contempt of court.

Unable to meet bail requirements, Cardona-Ramirez was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

County College of Morris Awarded Two Grants from NJDOL

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) was recently awarded two grants from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) that will help students who are enrolled in Advanced Manufacturing programs, including both Pre-Apprenticeship Boot Camps and Apprenticeship Programs. The college was awarded $237,109 as part of the PACE grant and $299,566 as part of the GAINS grant, totaling over $535,000 secured in grant funding.

“Receiving both of these grants from NJDOL positively impacts our students, manufacturing partners, the college and the communities we serve,” said Dr. Anthony J. Iacono, President of County College of Morris. “We are grateful to provide students with opportunities to be educated and trained in manufacturing, develop their resumes through apprenticeship programs, and be placed in jobs earning family-sustaining wages.  As a community college, CCM strives to support our communities’ economy and economic mobility and provide a pipeline of employees to industries throughout Morris County.”

The Pre-Apprenticeship in Career Education (PACE) Program will support 40 CCM’s Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship Boot Camp participants. Most of the funds will go directly towards tuition and participant stipends. The mission of the PACE Program is to align better secondary, post-secondary, adult education, and occupational training to meet labor demands unique to New Jersey and develop career pathways that lead to economically sustainable wages. Through the PACE funding received, CCM hopes to increase the number of apprentices from underrepresented groups. Many organizations in Morris, Sussex and Warren Counties help recruit participants and support those facing barriers. Following the boot camp, CCM’s Advanced Manufacturing team stays connected with those placed in Registered Apprenticeship programs, connecting them with additional support through related technical instruction.

The funding secured through the Growing Apprenticeships in Nontraditional Sectors (GAINS) grant program will help 25 participants in CCM’s Registered Apprenticeship programs (RAPs) in Advanced Manufacturing. The GAINS grant program promotes expansion of U.S. Department of Labor-approved Registered Apprenticeship programs to support better-paying careers and the attainment of advanced credentials. The program seeks to develop new and existing apprenticeship programs and create Registered Apprenticeship programs in high-growth industries. CCM will use the GAINS grant funds to add the Robotics Technician apprenticeship program, maintain key personnel in established, successful RAPs and enhance already elite Related Technical Instruction (RTI), which is classroom and lab instruction that provides theoretical knowledge and technical skills.  

These programs are a part of CCM’s Center for Workforce Development, which allows students to learn cutting-edge skills and boost their marketability in an ever-changing job market. It is a vital part of CCM’s mission, and advanced manufacturing is a growing, in-demand sector with a proven impact on the community. According to the Research Institute at Dallas College, CCM has the country’s third highest Economic Mobility Index of all community colleges. Education and support provided by CCM unlocks lasting occupational proficiency, advancement, and economic prosperity for learners from low-income or marginalized backgrounds in northern New Jersey. Furthermore, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, 93 percent of apprentices who complete an apprenticeship retain employment with an annual salary of $77,000.

CCM developed the Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship Boot Camp that links directly to eight Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAPs) that have been approved by the U.S. Department of Labor and are currently offered at CCM. The RAPs are as follows:

  • CNC Operating: Milling
  • CNC Operator: Turning
  • CNC Operator: Milling and Turning
  • CAD/CAM Programmer
  • Quality Assurance/Quality Control
  • Industrial Maintenance Mechanic
  • Robotics Technician (this apprenticeship will be piloted in the 2024 calendar year)
  • Tool/Die Manufacturer

Many target occupations result from these programs, including CNC operators, maintenance roles, tool/die manufacturers, QA/QC inspectors, CAD/CAM drafters, and robotics technicians. The daytime boot camp lasts over seven to ten weeks and totals 159 hours. It introduces participants to shop basics, advanced manufacturing equipment, OSHA 10, resume development, and other topics pertinent to successful job placement.

To learn more about CCM’s Pre-Apprenticeship Boot Camp and Apprenticeship Programs in Advanced Manufacturing, click here.

 To learn more about CCM’s Center for Workforce Development, click here.

Rockaway River Barn Hosts GOP Fundraiser

MORRIS COUNTY — Impressive turnout at the Rockaway River Barn for the Morris County GOP Winter Fundraiser under the leadership of Chairwoman Laura Ali. It’s always wonderful to gather with fellow proud Republicans and dedicated elected officials, many of whom spent the day in Trenton combating the overdevelopment of our suburbs. Proud to show my support!

Senator Tony Bucco, Morris County Commissioner Tayfun Selen, and Jon Bramnick
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella, Morris County Chairwoman Laura Ali, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Matt McGrath and Amanda McGrath
Morris County Commissioner John Krickus and Pompton Lakes Councilman Ekamon Venin
Rockaway Boro Mayor Tom Mulligan with Police Chief Conrad Pepperman
Assemblyman Mike Inganamort with Morris County Commissioner Deborah Smith
Chris Ilic with Jack Ciattarelli
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella and Senator Joe Pennachio
Assemblywoman Aura Dunn with Rockaway Boro Mayor Tom Mulligan
Toby Anderson with Chris Ilic
Joseph Belnome and Chris Ilic. Joseph Belnome is running for election to the U.S. House to represent New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District. He declared his candidacy for the Republican primary scheduled on June 4, 2024

Caught on Camera: Suspect Steals Landscape Lights in Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — A homeowner on Stephen Terrace noticed two of his landscape lights were missing from his front lawn.

Upon viewing his video surveillance footage, he observed a male wearing a blue jacket remove the lights. The male suspect took one light on February 7 at 2:17 p.m., and the same male suspect took the second on February 8 at 2:46 p.m.

The homeowner advised the reporting officer that he observed the male park, which appeared to be a mini-van, up the street from the victim’s home and paced back and forth before stealing the light.

The incident is currently under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the Parsippany Department’s Investigative Division at (973) 263-4300.

Stolen Vehicle Found Abandoned at Rutgers Village Apartments, Investigation Ongoing

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Police Recover Stolen Vehicle at Rutgers Village Apartments During a routine property check at 2 Rutgers Lane on February 7, 2024, 9:52 a.m.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Cavaliere was alerted by the Property Manager to a 2018 Silver Chevy Camaro parked in the lot for approximately three months without movement.

Further investigation revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen from Franklin Township. The incident is currently under investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Parsippany Department’s Investigative Division at (973) 263-4300.

Burglary to Auto in Lake Parsippany: Suspect Makes Off with 75 Cents, Investigation Underway

PARSIPPANY — On February 5th, 2024, at 4:45 a.m., a burglary to an automobile occurred. A resident of Lake Shore Drive in Lake Parsippany discovered that her 2022 Silver Ford Eco Sport had been ransacked.

Upon reviewing surveillance footage, she witnessed an unidentified male wearing a hooded jacket, face covering, and gloves enter her unlocked vehicle.

The suspect absconded with only $0.75 inside the vehicle before departing the scene on foot. Further details about the suspect were not provided. The incident is currently under investigation, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Parsippany Department’s Investigative Division at (973) 263-4300.

Local Fire Department Elections Scheduled for February 17

PARSIPPANY — Reminder: Saturday, February 17, 2024, marks the Annual Fire Department Election. Please cast your vote to support the local budget for our 100% Volunteer Fire Department; vote for Commissioners and other items that will affect your local fire district.

Polling stations will be open from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at your neighborhood fire department.

Musella’s Fundraiser Draws Massive Turnout at Miller’s Ale House

PARSIPPANY — The recently opened Miller’s Ale House air crackled excitedly on Valentine’s Day as Councilman Justin Musella prepared for his highly anticipated fundraiser. With heart-shaped decorations adorning the walls and freshly cooked food wafting through the air, the atmosphere was set for an evening of love and community support.

As the clock struck 6:30 p.m., the doors swung open, and the crowd began to pour in. From all corners of the town, friends, families, and supporters of Councilman Musella made their way into the bustling restaurant. Some arrived hand in hand, while others came solo, eager to join the festivities and show their support for their beloved councilman.

Musella with Parsippany Resident Jeff Camiscioli

Musella, sporting a sharp suit and a warm smile, greeted each guest with genuine enthusiasm. His passion for serving the community was palpable, and it resonated with everyone who crossed his path. As the night progressed, the restaurant buzzed with laughter and conversation, filling the air with camaraderie and goodwill.

The fundraiser featured diverse attendees ranging from many elected officials to grassroots activists. Senator Bramnick gave introductory remarks before welcoming Assemblyman Brian Bergen, the headline speaker.

Assemblyman Brian Bergen and Chris Ilic

What truly stood out, however, was the overwhelming turnout. Many joked that the fire inspector should have been called because Musella tends to draw crowds that exceed the fire occupancy limit! Over a hundred people packed into Miller’s Ale House, demonstrating their unwavering support for Musella and his vision for a brighter future for Parsippany.

As the night drew to a close, Councilman Musella took to the stage to express his gratitude to everyone who had contributed to the fundraiser’s success. His heartfelt words resonated with the crowd, leaving them inspired and uplifted.

Justin Musella and Elaine Gavalyas

“The future begins with the right step forward,” Councilman Musella declared, his voice filled with emotion. “Together, we’re going to do everything in our power to make this town the best possible.”

Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Matt McGrath and Carl Burwell
Musella with Erick Paley