Kiwanis Club honors PHHS Key Club Advisor: Bonnie Sturm

PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany presented Parsippany Hills High School Key Club Advisor Bonnie Sturm with one of Kiwanis International’s highest honors, “Walter Zeller Fellowship.” Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany donated to the fellowship and the contribution is helping The Eliminate Project to rid the world of maternal and neonatal tetanus. This gift will save or protect mothers and all future babies.

“Bonnie believes in leading by example and she makes it very clear to all of her Key Club members that Key Club is a Service club and not a Social club. Every Key Club member is required to sign a service agreement that defines the rules that they must follow to remain a Key Clubber in good standing as well as their commitment to complete a certain number of service hours each marking period. Bonnie’s Key Clubbers are always the first to volunteer for any and every thing when they are asked for help, whether it be to support their local Kiwanis Club or the Township in general,” said Ron Orthwein.

Michael A. Mulhaul presented Bonnie with a special medallion, lapel pin and certificate.

Bonnie was also honored with the “The Key of Honor” at the 72nd Annual New Jersey Key Club District Convention held March 23 to March 25 at Ocean Place Resort, Long Branch.

“The Key of Honor” is the highest recognition award presented by the Key Club International board, honoring Bonnie for a lifelong positive impact upon youth in general and Key Club and has shown long-term support of youth and Key Club programs.

Mrs. Sturm has been the Key Club Faculty Advisor for the Parsippany Hills High School Key Club for the past twenty years.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill, Michael A. Mulhaul, Parsippany Hills Key Club Advisor Bonnie Sturm, Parsippany High School Kiwanis Liaison Davey Willans and Sponsored Youth Advisor Ron Orthwein
Parsippany Hills Key Club Advisor Bonnie Sturm

In 1940, one year after the Kiwanis International Foundation was established as a legal entity, Walter Zeller made the first donation: 25 Canadian silver dollars that he hoped would turn into the foundation’s nest egg.

This donor’s dream came true. Auctioned for $625.00, his coins launched the Kiwanis International Foundation’s worldwide service efforts. Thousands of donors later, the foundation has grown into a multi-million dollar organization that awards grants to Kiwanis clubs and underwrites life-altering worldwide service projects.

Parsippany PAL Competition Cheerleading 2018-19 season tryouts

PARSIPPANY —  If you interested in learning more about 2018-2019 Parsippany PAL Competition Cheerleading or are interested in trying out for this season please email Tiffany Hiltz @ thiltz27@yahoo.com to be added to our email list and receive all upcoming information!

Parents meeting and Tryouts will be held in September.

Parsippany PAL Youth Center is located at 33 Baldwin Road.

Parsippany Vikings are Travel League Champs

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Vikings are the champions of the Montville Baseball and Softball Association’s 10-year old travel league.  The Vikings won the championship on Saturday by defeating the Wayne Warriors by a score of 10-6. This is the first year that Parsippany fielded a team in the Montville-run travel league, which consists of 17 teams from Morris, Essex, Sussex and Passaic counties.

The championship team is comprised of players Domenico Prisco, Diego Rodriguez, Nico Companion, Connor Johnson, Beck Haynes, Jake Matanin, Dylan Patel, Evan Carlson, Alejandro Perez, Michael Rescigno, Alex Dragone, and Jimmy MacKenzie.  The team is coached by Michael Companion, Carmine Verducci and Scott Carlson.

The Parsippany Vikings contended in the championship game of the 9-year old division and played exceptionally-well in a close game.  This was also the first Parsippany team to compete in this 9-year old league.

Adam Warner honored at Eagle Court of Honor

PARSIPPANY — At the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Adam Warner on Sunday, June 12, Adam was presented with the highest advancement of Boy Scouts, the “Eagle Scout.”

The Eagle Scout Award is Scouting’s highest rank and among its most familiar icons. Men who have earned it count it among their most treasured possessions. Those who missed it by a whisker remember exactly which requirement they didn’t complete. Americans from all walks of life know that being an Eagle Scout is a great honor. The award is more than a badge. It’s a state of being. The Eagle Scout may have received the badge as a boy, but you earn it every day as a man. In the words of the Eagle Scout Promise, they do your best each day to make their training and example, their rank and their influence count strongly for better Scouting and for better citizenship in the troop, in their community, and in their contacts with other people. And to this they pledge their sacred honor.

The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail leading up to three peaks, the highest being that of Eagle Scout. Officially, the trail starts with the Tenderfoot rank and continues through Second and First Class ranks. Then, the mountain climbing begins. The path is marked with merit badges, leadership responsibilities, service projects, and the practice of Scouting skills and ideals. The first peak reached is that of Star Scout, the second is Life Scout, and, finally, Eagle Scout.

Adam is a Senior at Parsippany Hills High School and will be attending Rutgers University — New Brunswick (College of Engineering) in the fall.

Adam started scouting in first grade as a Tiger Scout with Pack 142. He participated in several Pinewood Derbies and campouts. He bridged into Boy Scouts with Troop 72 in 2010 and advanced to the rank of Second Class within his first year of Boy Scouts.

He attended National Youth Leadership Training at the age of 12 and was soon elected to Assistant Senior Patrol leader the following year. After more campouts, he registered for a trip to the Boy Scout’s of America’s most revered High Adventure Base, Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico.

He was the Crew Chief of eight other scouts and three adults from Troop 7 in Madison and lead the crew on a 10-day seventy-five mile backpacking hike through America’s backcountry. He returned and quickly began his Eagle project, finishing only days before his eighteenth birthday. Adam’s scouting career was dense and rigorous, and hopes to continue challenging himself through college and the rest of his life.

Adam has earned 29 merit badges: Basketry, Camping*, Chess, Citizenship in the Community*, Citizenship in the Nation*, Citizenship in the World*, Communications*, Computers, Cooking*, Electricity, Environmental Science*, Family Life*, Fingerprinting, First Aid*, Geology, Indian Lore, Leatherwork, Lifesaving*, Model Design and Building, Music, Personal Fitness*, Personal Management*, Photography, Pottery, Railroading, Robotics, Scholarship, Swimming*, Wood Carving. (*indicates Eagle-required merit badges).

For his Eagle Project, Adam removed the old instrument shelves in the band closet at Parsippany Hills High School, repainted the walls of the band closet, and built and installed new wall-to-wall shelves. These shelves are used every day by dozens of students and provide more stable storage for the Parsippany Hills Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Marching Band, and Small Ensembles.

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Adam received special acknowledgements from Councilman Michael dePierro on behalf of the Township Council, Parsippany Rotary Club, Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, Assemblyman Jay Webber and Senator Joe Pennacchio; Frank Cahill, President Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany; Richard Kunz on behalf of Parsippany VFW Post 10184; Albert Clark, Parsippany Knights of Columbus 3680; and Executive Board Member Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Frank Cahill and Board Member Nicolas Limanov.

Boy Scout Troop 177 retires their flag in June 2014 and merged into Troop 72. Starting in 1961, between Troop 72 and Troop 177 there were 88 young men receiving their “Eagle Scout.” Here is a list of “Eagle Scouts:”

Jack Robinson, Troop 72; Jeffrey Benson, Troop 72; Ralph Wright, Troop 72; Wayne Grosnick, Troop 72; Leonard Cooke, Troop 72; Michael Cooke, Troop 72; William Cooke, Troop 72; Lee Burgess, Troop 72; Rich Karlson, Troop 72; Dave Peloubet, Troop 72; Jeffrey Glenn Troop, 72; Les O’Neil, Troop 72; Larry Bergus, Troop 72; Darryl Pronko, Troop 72; Bruce Ganek, Troop 72; James W. Kelly, Troop 72; Ian “Mitch” Rosenblum, Troop 72; Carl Jacobs, Troop 72; Richard Tress Troop, 72; Paul Spergel, Troop 72; Steven Chun, Troop 72; Ian Golton, Troop 72; Andrew Sadowski, Troop 72; John Thompson, Troop 177; Scott Smith, Troop 72; Brian Smith, Troop 72; Richard Tkach, Troop 177; Robert Vogel, Troop 72; David Grabell, Troop 72; Edward Ballo, Troop 72; Matthew Wetstein, Troop 177; Charles Chaffee, Troop72; Keith Olson, Troop 72; Demetrios Benos, Troop 72; Timothy Booth, Troop 72; Edward Pursell, Troop 177; Jason Ledakowich, Troop 72; Tommy Hayner, Troop 72; Jason Weinstein, Troop 177; Scott Dubnoff, Troop 177; Peter Newman, Troop 72; Andrew Pursell, Troop 177; Shuan Gonzalez, Troop 72; Matthew Caulfield, Troop 72; Michael Nicosia, Troop 177; Garthon Rowley, Troop 72; Joseph Calafiore, Troop 177; Salvatore DeFilippo, Troop 177; Victor Jacobia, Troop 177; Michael Banom, Troop 177; Christopher Lysenko, Troop 177; Matthew Nicosia, Troop 177;Thomas Ludwig, Troop 177; John Banom, Troop 177; Patrick Banom, Troop 177; Kevin Bogaert, Troop72; Christopher Ottesen, Troop 177; Anthony DeZenzo, Troop 177; Kevin Owens, Troop 72; Kyle Welge, Troop 177; Christopher Caulfield, Troop 72; Michael Caulfield, Troop 72; Christopher Thomas, Troop 72; Vincent Li, Troop 177; Thomas Gizas, Troop 177; Andrew Ludwig, Troop 177; Rigel Turdiu, Troop 177; Kurt Welge, Troop177; Brian Recciha, Troop 72; Kiernan Boone, Troop 177; Matthew Hubner, Troop 177; Brian Mitchell, Troop 72; Robert Moroz, Troop 72; John Shandra, Troop 177; Matthew Corrente, Troop 177; Sean Levorse, Troop 177; Michael Kertesz, Troop 72; Nick Corrente, Troop 177; Alex Bamert, Troop 72; Brendan Shanahan, Troop 72; Andrew Goetschkes, Troop 72; Daniel Bamert, Troop 72; Jonathan Kennet, Troop 72; Crin Uricoli, Troop 72; Keith Hawkins, Jr, Troop 72; Thomas Goetchskes, Troop 72 and Adam Warner, Troop 72.

Nicholas Gaudio Earns Spring 2018 Dean’s List Honors at Roger Williams University

PARSIPPANY — Nicholas Gaudio has been named to the Spring 2018 Dean’s List at Roger Williams University, in Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a grade point average of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List that semester.

Nicholas Gaudio, a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, Class of 2014, currently majoring in Engineering.

With campuses on the coast of Bristol and in the heart of Providence, R.I., Roger Williams University is a forward-thinking private university committed to strengthening society through engaged teaching and learning. At RWU, small classes, direct access to faculty and guaranteed opportunity for real-world projects ensure that its nearly 4,000 undergraduates – along with hundreds of law students, graduate students and adult learners – graduate with the ability to think critically along with the practical skills that today’s employers demand.

Roger Williams is leading the way in American higher education, confronting the most pressing issues facing students and families – increasing costs, rising debt and job readiness.

John Stahr named to Dean’s List at Grove City College

PARSIPPANY — John Stahr, a senior major at Grove City College, has been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2018 semester. John is a 2014 graduate of Homeschool and is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Stahr Sr. (Sandra).

Students eligible for the Dean’s List have a GPA of 3.40 to 3.59; for the Dean’s List with Distinction a GPA of 3.60 to 3.84 and for the Dean’s List with High Distinction a GPA of 3.85 to 4.0.

Grove City College is a highly ranked, national Christian liberal arts and sciences college that equips students to pursue their unique callings through an academically excellent and Christ-centered learning and living experience distinguished by a commitment to affordability and promotion of the Christian worldview, the foundations of a free society and the love of neighbor.

Established in 1876, the College is a pioneer in independent private education and accepts no federal funds. It offers students degrees in more than 60 majors on a picturesque 180-acre campus north of Pittsburgh, Pa. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Grove City College is routinely ranked as one of the country’s top colleges by U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review and others based on academic quality and superior outcomes.

Rabbi Andrew Sklarz will be spiritual leader at Temple Beth Am

PARSIPPANY — Temple Beth Am will welcome Rabbi Andrew Sklarz as the spiritual leader beginning July 1, 2018.

Rabbi Sklarz comes from Greenwich Reform Synagogue, Greenwich CT where he served as rabbi from 2008 through 2017.

He also served as Pastoral Chaplain at Norwalk Hospital. He holds degrees as an Honorary Doctor of Divinity from Hebrew Union College, a Master of Social Work from Fordham University, Master of School Psychology from Fairfield University and a Bachelor of Arts in Judaic Studies from Clark University.

Rabbi Sklarz also has a beautiful baritone singing voice and will be the solo clergy.  He joins with his wife Susan and his two children, Daniella who recently graduated from college and Alexander who is off to college this coming year.

Please join in welcoming Rabbi Sklarz to the Temple Beth Am community.

Temple Beth Am is located at 879 South Beverwyck Road.

Proposed 3.5% Tax Increase equates to $64.00 to average homeowner

PARSIPPANY — Fireworks exploded at the June 1 and June 13 budget hearings with Township CFO Ann Cucci and Business Administrator Ellen Sandman blasting their former boss, James Barberio with words like ‘irresponsible’ and ‘horrible’ when referring to the 2017 budget and it’s 0% tax increase. During his eight years in office, Barberio was able to show no increase in taxes twice; 2013 and 2017, years he was up for re-election. Taxes increased substantially in the years following his flatted-lined budgets.

On June 1, when asked by Council Vice President McCarthy why there is a 3.5% proposed increase for 2018, when zero was attained in 2017, CFO Cucci stated “I’ll say this about last year [2017] now. It was the most irresponsible, horrible budget I’ve ever done. I rest my case…There was no such thing as zero. I fought.  Ellen [Sandman] fought. We did not want it. I know the council didn’t want it. I know Mr Carifi. He didn’t want it as well.  Some people voted for it because they felt it was the right thing to do. Did I?  No. And did Ellen? No.”

Sandman followed Cucci by adding “I said there is no such thing as a zero and I thank you council president [Carifi] for voting no.  I’m sorry, I’m so emotional about this because now the exponential effect of this is, is to the moon. We have cut things, revenue sources. One source is where you try to keep them there for that rainy day. They’re gone…” (Editors Note: To view video and recording from June 1 meeting, click here. These quotes can be found at approximately 49 minutes into the tape).

The proposed 3.5% increase only affects the municipal portion of your tax bill, which is approximately 20% of the total real estate tax.

With the 2017 budget remaining flat, and 2017 expenses, including hefty medical and legal bills deferred to this current year, municipal taxes are expected to increase 3.5% or $64.38 for the average homeowner. In 2016, under Mayor Barberio, taxes were raised 4.2% or $74.21 for the average homeowner. (Click here to view the 2016 budget).

Former Council President Louis Valori

Former Councilman Louis Valori, who voted in favor of the budget in 2016 and 2017 attended the June 13 budget hearing and questioned the current proposed hike by stating  “We’re at a 3.5% which I think is unheard of, probably historical in this town” forgetting that as Council President in 2016 he lauded the 4.2% increase as a responsible budget. (Click here to read related article –
Council VP Indicates Budget is Smoke and Mirrors Presented by Mayor Barberio).

(Editors Note: Mr. Valori denies the 2016 budget increase was 4.2%. He has attacked this author on various social media outlets. Here is a clipping from the budget that shows the increase of 4.2% and the effect it has on the average residential tax payment).

Copied from Page 2 of the official budget posted on parsippany.net

While former township attorney John Inglesino once coined the term “Louie the Liar” when referring to Mr. Valori, several officers in Town Hall today when this author was in attendance of police promotions in the Council Chambers referred to Mr. Valori as “4 point two Lou.”

Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., said “When the finance committee consisting of myself and Councilwoman McCarthy first met with Business Administrator Ellen Sandman andCFO Mrs. Cucci, we were advised of the horrible situation former Mayor Barberio and Former Councilman President Valori left us in with their so-called zero budget that they came up with last year.  Barberio also used over 3 million dollars from the sewer and water utility surplus which was over $1 million more than the previous year. By him not planning ahead for mandatory pension and insurance payments for our employees, as per Mrs. Sandman and Mrs. Cucci, for this year which totals $900,000, taxes need to be raised by just over 2% just to cover those costs let alone other cost of living increases. I knew this was going to happen and that is why I voted no for last year’s budget. With that being said myself along with councilwoman McCarthy and Mayor Soriano came up with hundreds of thousands of dollars in reductions from the original budget which reduced the current budget to where it is now which our Township Auditor, Mr. Raymond Sarinelli, Mrs. Sandman and Mrs. Cucci have all stated it is trimmed to the bare bone. At our last budget meeting I questioned our auditor Mr. Sarinelli as well as Mrs. Cucci and Mrs. Sandman and asked them point-blank are we in this situation where we need to increase the budget 3.5% because of what former Mayor Barberio’s budget did to our finances and all three agreed that yes it has. I also asked Sandman and Cucci if it is true that we would have to cut services to our residents and  eliminate  a substantial number of employees to get the budget under 2% and they said yes. I am strongly opposed to reducing essential services to our residents which also could include our police protection in our schools because former Mayor Barberio  mismanaged the town’s budget. You can not put a price on the protection of our children and our residents in addition to the services we offer our residents.  I am certainly not happy about the current increase, but unfortunately  because of this situation we were left in we don’t have much of a choice.”

When asked after the officer promotion ceremony, Mayor Soriano stated, “Some, including those who voted for a 4.2% tax increase just two years ago, will oppose this budget purely for political gain. The fact is that this bipartisan budget is the first major step in repairing the damage done to our finances by consecutive election years of raising spending without raising revenue.”

Meet Hercules; He is about 7-8 months old

RANDOLPH — Hercules is about 7-8 months old. He is confident, but obedient dog. Perky and affectionate-best describes his personality. Hercules thrives with human attention, loves playing with other dogs, large and small. He does well with humans of all ages, loves to cuddle, and does not mind small children laying right on top of him.

Hercules was found in a business parking lot in Houston, Texas along with his sibling and was picked up by kind strangers who took him to a shelter.  He was enrolled in foster rescue program that the shelter had from the age of about two months.

He has been in foster home since, living with two large dogs, two cats, toddler age and school age children. He gets along with everyone. He does great on walks and would make a perfect running partner. He stays close to his human even off the leash. If he ventures out to explore and his name is called he runs back with huge smile on his face.

Stern calling of his name is enough to interrupt any unwanted behavior. Overall I think he is a gentle, good, family dog that would like to live with another playful dog.

Hercules  is energetic, but settles quickly after exercise and loves his naps. He is smart, curious boy – take him on your adventures with you!

Hercules is now living in New Jersey in a wonderful foster home and he is waiting for his furever home!

If interested in adopting Hercules, please email FHDR@att.net for an adoption application.  To see more photos of Hercules or to see our other adoptable pups, please go to www.fhd.petfinder.com

Mt. Tabor’s 5th Grade Students Give Back

PARSIPPANY — The fifth grade students at Mt. Tabor Elementary School had their “Give Back Day” on June 11th, 2018. With the assistance of teachers and helpers, Mrs. Sensale, Mrs. Williams, Mrs. McCotter, Mrs. Staples, Mrs. Nelson, Mrs. Patankar and Mr. Idrobo, they worked together to help clean up and make their school beautiful.  Not only were they sprucing up their surroundings, but they were helping Mount Tabor School to receive a grant from The Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority.

Abby Spindler, Kiara Toribio, Dylan Hovden, Vansh Patel, Sam Lou

They did many jobs in and around the school such as litter removal, repainting the United States map and 4 Square on the blacktop, gardening, assisting teachers, and general clean up. They put a lot of sweat and dedication into making sure Mt. Tabor looked perfect on the inside and out! Before embarking on this clean up adventure, a number of students participated in a poster contest about littering, recycling and keeping Morris County clean sponsored by the MCMUA. Others gave presentations about poison ivy to the 70 students in fifth grade.

This was the second annual Give Back Day, a tradition that started last year. Most of the students have been at Mt.Tabor for six years and this was their opportunity to say thank you and to leave the school in perfect form. In the words of one fifth grader, “This is our home and our community, and we strive to make it the best!”

The grant from the Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority will enable Mount Tabor School to purchase litter receptacles to help “Keep Morris County Litter Free,” as well as to instill a sense of community and responsibility in the students.

“MCYD Forward” Slate Announces Run for Morris County Young Democrats Executive Committee

PARSIPPANY — MCYD Forward, a slate of candidates running for the executive committee of the Morris County Young Democrats, announced their candidacies.

Matt Clarkin, 26, is the MCYD Forward candidate for President. Clarkin has been the Chairman of the Parsippany Democratic Committee since 2016 and Chief of Staff to Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano since his November victory.  He previously served as the full time Political Director of the Morris County Democratic Committee (MCDC) from 2015 – 2018. During his time at MCDC, the party picked up 21 seats from the GOP without losing a single Democratic-held seat.  This pushed Morris Democrats from 34 to 55 elected officials.

Ore Obiwumi, 22, is the MCYD Forward candidate for Vice President.  Obiwumi is the current full time Political Director of the MCDC.  Beginning with MCDC as an intern, she previously served as Field Director for Michael Soriano in 2017 and Field Director for the MCDC in 2016.  Obiwumi graduated summa cum laude from Farleigh Dickinson University in 2018 with a degree in political science & communications.  She resides in Mount Olive.

Erin Byrnes, 23, is the MCYD Forward candidate for Secretary.  Byrnes is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame with a degree in political science, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in accounting.  Byrnes works in the financial industry.  She served as a Field Organizer for the MCDC in 2016, leading the successful GOTV effort for the Boonton Democrats the same year.  She resides in Morris Plains.

Hait Leuva, 24, is the MCYD Forward candidate for Treasurer.  Leuva graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in economics, and currently works for a boutique consulting firm.  He is currently pursuing his CFA charter designation.  He was formerly President of the Young Democrats club at Parsippany Hills High School.  He resides in Parsippany.

MCYD Forward is running on a platform to increase youth involvement in Democratic campaigns throughout Morris County, and increase the dwindling membership of the Morris County Young Democrats.  Young people, from high school to the working world, need bridges of opportunity to get involved in the political process.  The MCYD Forward slate is a collection of young leaders and operatives in the party who rose through the ranks and want to see others do the same.

Pro Bono Partnership Receives Grant From Investors Foundation

NEW JERSEY — Pro Bono Partnership announced it was awarded a $2,500 grant from Investors Foundation. These funds will support the Partnership’s mission to strengthen and empower nonprofits and communities by providing free legal services to nonprofit organizations in New Jersey, Long Island, and the New York metropolitan region.

Investors Foundation’s generous grant will directly support the Partnership’s educational initiatives like webinars, workshops, and web-based publications that are designed to help nonprofit leadership, staff, and board members proactively identify pertinent legal issues and adopt best practices. By providing accessible and affordable legal resources, the Partnership helps nonprofits comply with applicable laws, and avoid risk.

“We’re so pleased to have Investors Foundation’s support for the important training the Partnership provides to nonprofits,” said Pro Bono Partnership Executive Director, Nancy Eberhardt. “Every nonprofit benefits from expert legal advice, and with the financial backing of partners like Investors Foundation, we can continue to provide those services free of charge to charities so they can focus their resources on building capacity and enhancing programming for their constituents,” Eberhardt continued.

Educational topics range from forming a nonprofit and determining a board’s leadership role, to navigating employment issues and complying with fundraising or advocacy laws. The Partnership is committed to making these resources as accessible as possible, so many are available on the Partnership’s website by clicking here through remote learning or on-demand webinars, or in-person training workshops.

Each year demand for the Partnership’s services increases, and last year was the busiest in the Partnership’s 20-year history. In 2017, Pro Bono Partnership assisted 800 nonprofits in the tristate area, providing 22,000 hours of free legal services valued at more than $9.5 million to the nonprofit sector. As one nonprofit executive recently said of Pro Bono Partnership, “The financial support that we receive is almost completely dedicated to our programs and services, so getting pro bono legal services is such a godsend!”

For 20 years, Pro Bono Partnership (probonopartner.org) has provided free transactional legal services to nonprofits in Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York. The Partnership annually recruits and mobilizes hundreds of attorneys from major corporations and law firms to donate their time and talent on behalf of its nonprofit clients. Access to expert, free legal counsel enables those nonprofit clients to more efficiently feed the hungry, house the homeless, promote the arts, protect the environment, and provide essential programs to our communities.

Investors Bank, headquartered in Short Hills, is a full-service community bank that has been serving customers since 1926. With over $25 billion in assets and a network of more than 150 retail branches, Investors delivers personalized services and products tailored to the needs of its customers. Investors’ banking services include complete deposit, loan and cash management products for consumers and businesses. Investors Bank. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

Investors Bank created the Investors Foundation in 2005 to support the communities Investors Bank serves. Investors Foundation supports initiatives in the arts, youth development, health and human services, education and affordable housing.  Investors Foundation works to improve the lives of its customers and neighbors. For more information click here.

Parsippany Town Hall Council Agenda Meeting 06-13-2018

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Town Hall Council Agenda Meeting of Wednesday, June 13.

Eddie, an eight-week old Pit mix, is looking for a home

PARSIPPANY — Eddie is an eight-week old Pit mix! He is extremely sweet and affectionate! He will cover your face with kisses and when that gets too tiring, he will keep you trapped in a too-good-to-be-true cuddle session!

He is a spunky and playful boy who is always eager to run around and explore! Eddie enjoys playing with his two doggy foster siblings. They will wrestle and chase each other around the yard! After playtime, Eddie is more than happy to snuggle up next to you on the couch and take a nice, long nap.He is still a young puppy and trying his best to learn how house training works. With patience and positive reinforcement, he will learn in no time! He sleeps in his crate at night and is working on his leash training.

Eddie does fantastic with other dogs and would even love to have a buddy to go home to! Because Eddie is teething and still learning basic puppy manners, it would be best he went home with kids above the age of thirteen.

Eddie will make a wonderful companion to a family who will provide him with lots of love in return!

If you are interested in adopting Eddie, please fill out an application by clicking here.

Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Instagram by clicking here.
Like Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.

Dedication of Flag Pole at Central Middle School

The flag flies high at Central Middle School, thanks to Josh Knowle

PARSIPPANY — Today being June 14, Flag Day, Central Middle School recognized the accomplishments and hard work of Josh Knowle as he completes the requirements towards earning his Eagle Scout Award.

When Josh was in seventh grade he must have heard, the Principal Mr. Grey, complaining to someone about the fact that there was a need for a pathway to the flagpole.

The path created by Josh to the bottom of the flag pole

Soon thereafter, Josh approached Mr. Grey and told that for his Eagle Scout Project he wanted to install a walkway to and around the flagpole.

After a few rough drafts, lots of conversations and clearing Boys Scouts of America approval and Board of Education approval,  the Board of Education, Boy Scouts, Parents and Mayor Michael Soriano dedicated the project to the Students and Staff of Central Middle School.

Two months ago, the flagpole was very rusty and discolored. It had an old flag topper that was ready to fall off. Students and staff that tended to the flag each day had to do so in all weather conditions. In the winter, they would climb over mounds of plowed snow to get to the flagpole. After rain, students and custodians walked out into a muddy quagmire to tend to the flag only to come back into the building with wet shoes and soggy socks.

Josh Knowle with Principal Mr. Gray
Josh’s project included the complete renovation of the flagpole. Completely sanding and repainting the pole. The installation of a new flagpole topper which is a proud American Eagle. The installation of new pulley, rope and fasteners to last for years to come. The installation of a solar powered light to illuminate the flag in the evening. The digging of a pathway to and around the flagpole, the installation of weed block and gravel that make access to the flagpole area much easier.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano, Josh Knowle and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Barbara Sargent

The new flag that we raised today was donated by Former Parsippany Mayor Mr. Jamie Barberio.

It is the flag that we raise for days to come here at Central. This project would not have been possible had it not been for the efforts of Josh. He was organized and diligent in his preparation. He raised the money to fund this project from private donors as well as donations from local businesses. To commemorate this day and the completion of this project we will install a plaque so that students, staff and all visitors to Central Middle School will be able to recognize his accomplishments.
Josh with his parents Sandra and Ronald
The plaque will be displayed at the base of the flagpole and will read …. “On behalf of Central Middle School, we want to thank the Parsippany BOE for their support, the Central Custodial staff and the District maintenance department. Most of all we want to thank Josh, Mr. and Mrs. Knowle and Troop 72 for this great project.”
Central Middle School student, Nellie Castro, volunteered to raise the flag everyday this year.
Student Nellie Castro volunteered to raise the flag at Central Middle School everyday

New Jersey Blood Services Declares Blood Emergency

MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey Blood Services/New York Blood Center (NYBC) has declared a blood emergency. The organization is asking people across Morris County to donate blood to help replenish the blood supply for hospitals throughout the area.

In order to maintain a safe blood supply, a seven-day inventory of all blood types must be continually replenished. Right now, reserves are below that minimum.

These low levels are particularly dangerous leading into summer months, when people are less likely to donate blood as schools go on summer break and families take vacations. The best preparation for life-threatening situations is having blood on hospital shelves in advance.

Our appeal happens to coincide with World Blood Donor Day, which is Thursday, June 14th, and celebrates volunteer blood donors for their life-saving gifts. This year it falls on the anniversary of the 2017 shooting at the congressional baseball practice. To recognize the importance of blood donations, members of the Republican and Democrat congressional baseball teams have joined together in a bipartisan, bicameral effort to promote World Blood Donor Day and the vital work of independent blood centers such as NYBC.

“Every single day, blood donations help save lives – and right now, the need is critical,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Executive Director of Donor Recruitment for New York Blood Center. “We’re calling on everyone to do what they can to spread the word, host a blood drive or simply take an hour out of their day to donate.”

Community members are encouraged to find time to donate blood at a NYBC donor center or convenient mobile blood drive, especially donors with O negative and B negative blood types. O negative blood donors are considered “universal,” and their blood type is needed most readily in trauma situations and emergency rooms across the country. B negative is a particularly rare blood type.

Companies, organizations, and community groups are also encouraged to host a blood drive this summer to help rebuild the blood supply, especially during the months of July and August.

In just 60 minutes, you can donate one pint of blood and Save a Life, Right Here, Right Now in your own community. About one in seven hospital admissions requires a blood transfusion, and with a limited shelf life, supplies must be continually replenished. Those in need include: cancer patients, accident, burn, or trauma victims, newborn babies and their mothers, transplant recipients, surgery patients, chronically transfused patients suffering from sickle cell disease or thalassemia, and many more.

How to help:

  • Donate blood or platelets at a donor center.
  • Donate at a mobile blood drive.
  • Host a blood drive in your community or at your organization.
  • Educate others in your family, community, and organization about blood donations, and encourage them to donate themselves and/or host a blood drive.
  • Promote the need for blood donors on social media.

For more information on where to donate or how to set up your own drive click here or call 1-800-933-2566.

About New York Blood Center: Founded in 1964, New York Blood Center (NYBC) is a nonprofit organization that is one of the largest independent, community-based blood centers in the world. NYBC, along with its partner organizations Community Blood Center of Kansas City, Missouri (CBC), Innovative Blood Resources (IBR), Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD), and Rhode Island Blood Center (RIBC), collect approximately 4,000 units of blood products each day and serve local communities of more than 45 million people in the Tri-State area (NY, NJ, CT), Mid Atlantic area (PA, DE, MD), the Kansas City metropolitan area, Minnesota, Nebraska, Rhode Island, and Southern New England. NYBC and its partners also provide a wide array of transfusion-related medical services, including Comprehensive Cell Solutions, the National Center for Blood Group Genomics, the National Cord Blood Program, and the Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, which — among other milestones — developed the Hepatitis B vaccine and a patented solvent detergent plasma process innovating blood-purification technology worldwide.

Northvail’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

PARSIPPANY — It was a beautiful morning for a celebration! Out on the front lawn, Northvail had a kindergarten through fifth grade assembly program that included Flag Day, the 50th Anniversary of the construction of the building and honoring our Teacher of the Year!

During our 50th Anniversary celebration, the students had the opportunity to learn about a time capsule which was planted after the completion of the building and how we have added to it in keeping the tradition for the next generation to discover. Along with the time capsule, the students did a musical segment. Starting from present day and going to the decade Northvail was established, the 1960s. Students were dancing through the decades- from Happy by Pharrell Williams to doing the twist by Chubby Checker. They were definitely having a blast from the past!

Following our decade’s celebration, our Teacher of the Year was honored, Mrs. Webb! Students from each grade level were able to express what makes Mrs. Webb such a great vocal music teacher and we all couldn’t agree more! Congratulations to Mrs. Webb- you deserve it!

Jason Hao receives “Senate Resolution” at CMS Seventh Grade Awards Assembly

PARSIPPANY — Senator Joseph Pennacchio presented Jason Hao with a “Senate Resolution” at the Central Middle School 7th Grade Awards Assembly held on Tuesday, June 12.

Jason Hao was the first place winner during Central Middle School’s Fourth Annual Spelling Bee held onTuesday, February 27. (Click here to read related article.

Sixty-six classroom spelling bee champions from sixth, seventh and eighth grade competed for the school championship.

Joanne Hirsch, Spelling Bee Coordinator and teacher of English for 38 years in the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District, organized the competition based on the Scripps National Spelling Bee guidelines.

After sixteen arduous and intensive rounds, this year’s school champion was a seventh grader, Jason Hao, who embraced the winning title with the word “humongous.”

A plaque in his name is displayed in the school and he received a free one year subscription to Encyclopaedia Britannica online (courtesy of Scripps National Spelling Bee).

Seventh grader Sehaj Munot came in second and Laya Neelisetty came in third.

The eloquent and articulate pronouncer was Mr. Joseph Gillespie, Computer Teacher, and the judges were Mr. Thomas Curcio, English teacher and Mrs. Theresa Mulroony (Guidance Counselor). Students had been enthusiastically studying 300 challenging words in preparation for the competition, and after the initial list was exhausted, random words from prior lists were utilized.

In light of the current focus on Core Content State Standards, this competition provides the opportunity for improvement of spelling and vocabulary skills.

A copy of the Senate Resolution appears below:

Morris County Republican Committee elects new officers

PARSIPPANY — During the reorganization meeting of the Morris County Republican Committee held at Parsippany Sheraton Hotel, on Tuesday, June 12.

Ronald DeFilippis was elected Morris County Republican Chairman defeating Robert Zwigard by a vote margin.

DeFilippis, a GOP fundraiser and former commissioner of the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission, takes over the Republican organization as the County prepares to battle an increasingly popular Democratic Party.

Patti Page, who became county chair in 2016 when John Sette retired, did not seek election to a full two-year term.

The full slate of newly elected Morris County Republican Committee Officers are as follows:

Chairman:  Honorable Ronald DeFilippis
Vice Chairman:  Laura Marie Ali
Recording Secretary: Stephanie Sharratt
Corresponding Secretary: Major Nicholas DeGregorio
Treasurer: Attorney Robert Cascone
Sgt. At Arms: Honorable Guy Gregg
Council: Peter King, Esq.

State Sen. Joseph Pennacchio (R-Montville) backed DeFilippis and is became the new executive director of the county GOP organization. He said “Ron DeFilippis is a good, decent man who will engage the Morris County Republican Party.  Ron is not a party boss. Ron is a consensus builder, a hard and selfless worker who will use his talents to increase our party’s presence and guarantee future Republican victories.  His efforts will not only improve our Republican party but the quality of life for all Morris County citizens regardless of party affiliation.”

Vice Chair Laura Ali said “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work hard for all Republicans.  Our first immediate goal is to bring the party together. We congratulate our slate of opponents on a great campaign and feel confident that after a day or two of rest and reflection, we will come back bigger and stronger than ever as a united Republican force to reckon with.”

“I am proud to be part of a terrific team of dedicated republicans and I look forward to unifying our organization, growing our Party, and expanding Republican victories in November and beyond.” said Rob Cascone, MCRC Treasurer.

 

President of Parsippany Clinical Laboratory Sentenced 72 months

PARSIPPANY – The president of Biodiagnostic Laboratory Services LLC (BLS) and his brother – a senior employee at the now-defunct company – were sentenced to federal prison terms for their respective roles in a conspiracy in which millions of dollars in bribes were paid to physicians for blood sample referrals worth more than $100 million to the company, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.

Biodiagnostic Laboratory Services was located at 181 New Road.

David Nicoll, 44, of Mountain Lakes, was sentenced to 72 months in prison; Scott Nicoll, 37, of Wayne, was sentenced to 43 months in prison. Each defendant had previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stanley R. Chesler to an information charging one count of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute and the Federal Travel Act and one count of money laundering. Judge Chesler imposed the sentences today in Newark federal court.

“Today, the president of a diagnostic lab company and his brother were sentenced for their leading roles in a scam that led to one of the largest ever prosecutions of medical professionals in a bribery case,” U.S. Attorney Carpenito said. “Medical referrals from a doctor should be based on what’s in the patient’s best interest, not on how much money the doctor is offered in kickbacks. The number of doctors and medical professionals sent to prison in this case should make that message abundantly clear.”

The investigation has resulted in the convictions of 53 defendants – 38 of them of doctors – in connection with the bribery scheme, which its organizers have admitted involved millions of dollars in bribes and resulted in more than $100 million in payments to BLS from Medicare and various private insurance companies. It is believed to be the largest number of medical professionals ever prosecuted in a bribery case. The investigation has recovered more than $15 million through forfeiture. On June 28, 2016, BLS, which is no longer operational, pleaded guilty and was required to forfeit all of its assets.

“The FBI views health care fraud as a severe crime problem that impacts every American,” FBI Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie said. “Fraud and abuse take critical resources out of our health care system, and contribute to the rising cost of health care for everyone. Today’s sentencing of David Nicoll and his brother Scott Nicoll are the result of a multi-agency investigation into a complex health care fraud scheme, requiring substantial investigative resources. The FBI, with its law enforcement partners, will continue to allocate a significant amount of expert resources to investigate these crimes and prosecute all those that are intent in defrauding the American public.”

“These two individuals masterminded an elaborate health care fraud scheme based on nothing more than greed,” Scott J. Lampert, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said. “We trust that the work with our law enforcement partners – especially the U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, IRS, and Postal Inspection Service – will send a clear message and dissuade individual health ‘professionals’ from making such corrosive schemes possible.”

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

On April 9, 2013, federal agents arrested BLS president and part owner, David Nicoll; Scott Nicoll, a senior BLS employee and others, who were charged by complaint with bribery conspiracy, along with the BLS company. The conspiracy made millions in illegal profits between 2006 and April of 2013. David and Scott Nicoll admitted that BLS made substantially more than $100 million from Medicare and private insurance companies – just from bills related to blood specimens sent to BLS by bribed doctors.

BLS paid doctors millions of dollars – in cash or under the guise of sham lease, service, and consulting agreements through an elaborate network of shell entities used for that purpose. The defendants also admitted that one component of the bribery scheme was to pay some doctors a fee per test to induce them to increase their ordering of certain tests.

“Health care fraud of this magnitude cannot be tolerated, and today’s sentencings are the direct result of the tremendous investigative skills of all the participating law enforcement agencies,” Bryant Jackson, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS – Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office, said. “IRS – Criminal Investigation is proud to have been a part of this investigative team that helped to bring down and dismantle this massive health care conspiracy.”

“Throughout the course of this long-running investigation, Postal Inspectors, federal prosecutors and our law enforcement partners have diligently worked to unravel this elaborate bribery conspiracy,” Acting Inspector in Charge Judy Ramos of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service said. “Although, the final defendants in this matter face sentencing today, Postal Inspectors will continue to tirelessly investigate complex fraud schemes that target consumers and businesses through the U.S. Mail.”

In addition to the prison terms, Judge Chesler sentenced the Nicolls to one year of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ehrie; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Lampert; IRS–Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Jackson, and inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Acting Inspector in Charge Ramos, with the investigation leading to the sentencing.