Winner #3 – Maya Celli – Knollwood Elementary School; 5th Grade, 10 years old

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Winner #3 – Maya Celli – Knollwood Elementary School; 5th Grade, 10 years old
Fifth Grade Teacher Ms. Wrightson, Parsippany Focus Reporter Nicolas Limanov and Maya Celli receiving her reward for winning in our Halloween Contest
Fifth Grade Teacher Ms. Wrightson, Parsippany Focus Reporter Nicolas Limanov and Maya Celli receiving her reward for winning in our Halloween Contest

PARSIPPANY — The staff at Parsippany Focus has chosen three winners in our “Halloween Story Contest” for young readers.

The first winner is a student at Littleton Elementary School; 3rd Grade, 8 years old: Ishita Bandyopadhyay; second winner is Malak Hagag – Knollwood Elementary School; 5th Grade, 10 years old and our third winner is Maya Celli – Knollwood Elementary School; 5th Grade, 10 years old.

Maya’s story was titled:

Derick and the King’s Ghost Castle

There was a boy named Derick who was always adventurous and had a big imagination, too. In his town, there was an old castle that existed around the 1500’s. People tell rumors and say that there was a king, and that his ghost still haunts the decrepit, weary place. He guards his castle from any living being that crosses it’s path. No one had ever come back to tell about it. He did not believe in ghosts, so one day, Derick decided to visit this so-called “castle”. The crumbled building had broken down antique furniture, and the carpet on the floor had a stench mildew and watered down, sour milk. There was a chandelier that had fallen down onto the ground, and the white candles, had turned yellow. Derick counted about sixteen cobwebs in a single room. There was a shelf of withered books, and the stained glass windows were broken and shattered. He was so absorbed in the interior of the ruins that he almost forgot why he came there.

Suddenly, an unknown voice called out in medieval vocabulary, “We seem to have a young fellow … a wanderer?” Derick was so freaked he dove behind a pile of cobblestones.

The ghost echoed “Be gone! Get away from our castle or thy shalt be sorry!”. This wording was not easy, but Derick tried to understand it, and he knew he just wanted to get out of there. Derick sprinted to his bike, and pedaled as fast as he could.

Derek grew up and eventually moved away. One day, however, Derick was unpacking his boxes in his new home, and suddenly, a peculiar breeze filled the room and blew the curtains. A tornado of leaves filled the room and entered through the window. Then, Derick heard the same voice he had encountered years ago. “I’ll GET YOU, DERICK!!!”.Maya-Celli-Drawing

Winner #2 – Malak Hagag – Knollwood Elementary School; 5th Grade, 10 years old

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Winner #2 – Malak Hagag – Knollwood Elementary School; 5th Grade, 10 years old
IMG_1315
Parsippany Focus Reporter Nicolas Limanov, Malak Hagag and Fifth Grade Teacher Mrs. Vittorio

PARSIPPANY — The staff at Parsippany Focus has chosen three winners in our “Halloween Story Contest” for young readers.

The first winner is a student at Littleton Elementary School; 3rd Grade, 8 years old: Ishita Bandyopadhyay; second winner is Malak Hagag – Knollwood Elementary School; 5th Grade, 10 years old and our third winner is Maya Celli, Knollwood Elementary School; 5th Grade, 10 years old.

Malak’s story was titled:

Flair and the Other

We arrived at the Old McGrancle’s Graveyard. It was extremely terrifying. Right when I stepped in, I got chills up my spine. We heard a devastating sound. I told my sister there was nothing to be scared of, but she just ignored me. Then we heard a spine chilling laugh. I have to admit, I was a little scared. Ok, I was a lot scared, but I tried not to show it so that Flow wouldn’t get scared. All of a sudden we saw a tiny house. We thought no one was inside but I take that back. A spark of light turned on. We were too scared to find out. So instead, we started wondering around the graveyard, gazing at the monuments and statues. Suddenly I felt a tap on my shoulder. I told Flow to cut it out, but she said it wasn’t her. Same thing happened with her. She felt a tap and thought it was me, but I told her it wasn’t me. Then we heard another sound. It was a weak voice saying,”Help meeeeee!!!”. This time we got really scared …… Woah, woah, woah! I went too far. Let me introduce myself. My name is Blair and I have a sister named Flow. If you’re wondering, yes we are twins. Anyway back to the story. Me and Flow were so excited for Halloween. It was a day away. We’ve been planning for this year since we were five. Instead of going trick-or-treating, we were going to Old McGrancle’s Graveyard. We were also excited because this year we made our own costumes, and they are wicked. We’re going as soccer zombies. The day of Halloween came. We got ready for our plan. We were extremely elated. We ran to the graveyard.

Back to what I said before. We wanted to leave, but all of a sudden someone said, “Wait!”. We stopped. There was a ghost who claimed she was our sister. She also said that there was a wizard named Wizard lmblo that turned her into a ghost. Her name was Jenna. The only way she could become a human again is if we found some materials to make her a special potion. But the ingredients were impossible. They were…

• 1 tablespoon of a white cow’s milk
• 1 cup of squid ink
• 1 shark’s tooth
• 1 strand of hair from a brunette
• 1 feather from a blue jay

Some of them we could get. The strand of hair from a brunette is perfect because I am a brunette. We also found a blue jay’s feather on the ground. Luckily, we remembered that we have a squad at home because mom was going to make calamari for dinner. We also remembered that mom always buys milk from a white cow. We ran home as quick as possible. While we were there we told mom about everything that was happening. Flow then asked mom why she never told us about Jenna. Mom said, “I was worried you’d get scared.” We got the milk and found the squid, but there was no ink inside of it. But after a couple of minutes mom remembered she had squid ink in the pantry to make pasta . We ran out the door, and back to the graveyard. “But wait we’re missing the shark tooth!” I said. Thank goodness, I got Flow a shark tooth necklace for her birthday.

We were so excited to see our long lost sister. We mixed the ingredients. Then a beautiful young lady appeared upon us. Me and Flow got to know her better on our way home. Then a question popped up to my head,”Why were you turned into a ghost?”. Jenna said that there was a misunderstanding between her and Wizard lmblo. We asked her who was Wizard lmblo. Jenna said, “Wizard lmblo was the guardian of the graveyard. It was his home. So if anyone trashed it he turns them into ghosts.” Then she said that her friend knew about the whole ghost thing. So her friend tp’d the graveyard and ran away so that it looked like Jenna did it. Than Wizard lmblo appeared and thought it was Jenna that did it. Jenna tried to explain, but he just ignored me. She’s been waiting for this year so that we could save her and we did.” Thank you!!” she said. We told her that she was very welcome. When we got home mom and dad were crying tears of joy. They were so happy to see her. We all stayed up and watched a movie as a family. I also made some popcorn. Oh ya, I forgot to tell you, we found out that she was also our twin, so I guess we are triplets. Even though this Halloween started a little rough, it turned out to be the greatest day of my life.

PHS Bands seeking Tricky Tray donations

Nicolas Limanov
-
0
PHS Bands seeking Tricky Tray donations

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School Band Boosters is a non-profit organization made up of active parents who volunteer their time to support the musical and creative endeavors of their children.

They believe in the importance of the arts in education, and greatly appreciate the support of others in the community who share the belief that music and the other fine arts are essential to the education and development of our young people in today’s society.

This year they are organizing a fundraising event which will be held February 21, 2016 at Boonton Lanes in Boonton.  All proceeds from this event will go towards the PHS Band Boosters Scholarship and Awards Fund.

As part of our event, they will be having a Tricky Tray to help raise funds.

The group is seeking support as they ask local businesses for a tax-deductible donation.  A donation can take the form of goods or services that can be offered as a tricky tray prize.

Any donations can be mailed to PHS Band Boosters, Att: Greg Dalakian, 309 Baldwin Road, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054.

Please note that every business that makes a donation will be recognized during the event.  Also, throughout the event, they will make a point of acknowledging your donation and encourage our attendees to patronize the local businesses that donated towards the tricky tray.  The event is expected to have approximately 100 attendees.

If you have any questions regarding a donation of goods or services, please contact Ann Berdetta, aberdetta@gmail.com or call (973) 647-0157.

These talented and hard-working teenagers take one step closer to achieving their life’s goals and aspirations.

Democrat Council Candidate: Greg Elbin

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Council Candidate Greg Elbin
Council Candidate Greg Elbin

Full Name: Gregory B. Elbin

Office Seeking: Town Council Seat

Party lines: Democrat

Campaign website: parsippanydems.org

Facebook Page: Parsippany Democratic Committee

What community do you live in? We reside at 29 Farmstead Drive, District 38, close to Parsippany High School.

How long have you lived there? 20 years.

How old are you? 62

Provide family information: Married 38 years to Dr. Susan Elbin. We have one daughter, Rachel, 28 years old.

What is your education background? BA, German and Religion, Dickinson College; MA German, PSU; I taught high school German for 30 years.

Why do you think you are qualified for this position? I’m a skilled negotiator, having worked on four teacher-board contracts. Although emotions can run high, I’m confident I will be able to help gain consensus in the face of tough issues.

Why are you running for this elected office? Although I’m active in many volunteer organizations that support our community, I need to be able to represent Parsippany on Town Council. I have observed how our Council has spent two years virtually deadlocked on issues. We have an opportunity to end this stagnation and ensure an independent Council that can truly represent the interests of all citizens. We need to end the partisan politics that prevail in our community.

What are the three issues that most concern you?
a. Transparency: One of the Council’s major responsibilities is oversight of budgeting and spending. Under the present administration, budgets have been late, and copies have not been readily available to the public. Council members have been prevented from reviewing legal and other bills.
b. Development: Some on Council have voted “yes” on every developer’s proposal on the Waterview tract, which borders the Lake Intervale residential area. The Council needs my vote to ensure that we ask the right questions and make the right choices, not only on Waterview, but also on other open space issues, rezoning, and the Council on Affordable Housing.
c. Escalating Legal Costs: We have one million dollars in litigation and legal bills for the Town Attorney. Indeed, legal fees have increased 45% since 2010. A good portion of the litigation expense is dedicated to a politically motivated lawsuit. These fees are footed by the taxpayer.

Explain your proposed approach to managing these issues.
a. Transparency: The local “pay to play” ordinance was eviscerated and open space decisions were taken away, for example, from the Open Space Committee. I would ask the standing committees to make regular presentations at council meetings about issues under their purview, empowering members of said committees to share their expertise. Their advice should be weighed heavily. I would also ensure that Township budgets are accessible to the public in a timely manner.
b. Development: The present administration has ushered in an era of unrestrained development in the town, by virtue of the “areas in need of redevelopment” designation. Some of the “areas” are areas that have never been developed. We need to be true to the Master Plan in terms of new development projects. If changes in zoning are necessary, they need to be effected through mindful reexamination of the Master Plan, and not slipped in through the back door by means of capricious spot zoning.
c. Escalating Legal Costs: One of the major jobs of our Council is to review
invoices. As a councilman, I would insist that Council be able to review all billing. We can no longer accept the highly redacted versions of attorney bills. The rising cost of politically motivated lawsuits is a burden on our taxpayers that is intolerable.

Have you held elected office before? Vice President of Morris Hills Regional District Education Association, four years; Treasurer, Northern Chapter of AATG, six years; President-Elect of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany-Troy Hills, 2016-2017.

What organizations do you belong to? Lay Member at Parsippany United Methodist; Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, AATG, NJEA, Lodge 700, Free & Accepted Masons.

Republican Council Candidate: Michael dePierro

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Mike's-Portrait01
Councilman Michael dePierro

Full Name: Michael J. dePierro

Office Seeking: Parsippany Township Council

Party lines: Republican

Campaign website: ParsippanyWins2015.com

Facebook Page: facebook.com/dePierro and Gragnani

What community do you live in? We live in Rickland Village which is East of North Beverwyck Road and South of Vail Road.

How long have you lived there? We have lived in Parsippany for over 50 years.

How old are you? I am 76 years old.

Provide family information: Dee and I recently celebrated our 55th Anniversary. Our three children and ten grandchildren all live within an hour’s drive. Our grandchildren range in ages from 28 down to 11.

What is your education background? I have an Electrical Engineering degree from Fairleigh Dickenson University. I completed many technical courses required by the Bell System, and others while on active duty in the Air Force.

Why do you think you are qualified for this position? I have served Parsippany as an elected official for over 38 years. All of my decisions have been based upon quality of life issues. When Money Magazine rated Parsippany as the “Best small city to live in New Jersey”, they considered the eight categories that I base my decision upon; property taxes, home values, population growth, land development, employment, crime rate, school performance, and proximity to services. I have been a part of the collective wisdom that shaped our Township. I am the only elected official in Parsippany to be inducted into the New Jersey State League of Municipalities “Elected Officials Hall of Fame”. My record is one of accomplishment.

Why are you running for this elected office? Our work is not done. New challenges are on the horizon that jeopardize our quality of life in Parsippany.

What are the three issues that most concern you? Actually, there are four issues that concern me. (1) New Supreme Court mandates for low and moderate income housing; (2) Office Vacancy Rates; (3) Our infrastructure (Sewer Plant; Water Plant; Roads; Parks; etc.); and continued support for our Volunteers.

Explain your proposed approach to managing these issues. Parsippany’s obligation (1) to build low and moderate income housing depends upon the available space that we have. The more space that we have, the more housing that we must allow. For example, the 26 acre Waterview Tract … either that will be developed with a Whole Foods store and five smaller stores combined with 9.5 acres of open space (with no apartments and no school children), or it will be developed with 600 apartments, 120 of which will be low and moderate income (and however many school children that will generate). (2) We must help and support Commercial property owners to make their properties more attractive to potential clients. One example could be allowing an office complex to open a Day Care Center in their complex. Imagine how many educated and trained mothers with small children that employers could attract if they could offer free childcare services at their location. We must be open minded and supportive of new proposals to fill our vacant offices. (3) Even though we have upgraded the processing of sewerage with the resultant significant savings in electrical costs, the remainder of the plant also be maintained and upgraded including the Catch Basin, the Electrical System, and the pumps and blowers. Water Towers, Wells, pumps, and water pipes must be maintained. The many miles of Roads that the Township is responsible for must be maintained, plowed and cleaned on a scheduled basis. All of our many parks must be maintained and kept safe for our children’s use.  Our Volunteers constantly need to upgrade old equipment and replace supplies. We need to support them in every way that we can.

Have you held elected office before? In addition to the 32 years that I have served as a Councilman, I have also served on the Parsippany School Board for six years. While on the school board, I also served as President of the Morris County School Boards Association.

What organizations do you belong to? I am a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10184; a Life member of the American Legion Post 249; a 42 year member of the Parsippany Rotary Club (and two-time Past President); a Trustee of Craftsman Farms; Planning Board member for 22 years; Sons of Italy (Chairman of the Scholarship Committee); Open Space Committee; Knoll Country Club Advisory Committee; Little League East, Little League West and Parsippany Soccer team sponsor for the past 32 years; Fairleigh Dickenson University Alumni Association; National Notary Association; the Association of Government Accountants; the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers; Phi Beta Gamma (a National Executive Honor Society); and Parishioner of St. Ann Church (Door Hospitality and Golf Committee).

Republican Council Candidate: Paul Carifi, Jr.

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.

Full Name:  Paul Carifi Jr.

Office Seeking: Parsippany Troy-Hills Town Council

Party lines: Republican

Campaign website: ParsippanyResidentsFirst.com

What community do you live in? Sedgefield

How long have you lived there? 15 Years;  40 in Parsippany all together

How old are you? 49

Provide family information: Single, Twin 8 year old Boys

What is your education background? BA in Sociology / Criminal Justice from East Stroudsburg University

Why do you think you are qualified for this position? Currently the Council President. I feel I have worked very hard for the quality of life for our residents. I have an understanding of budgets and I have proven that I know how to eliminate wasteful spending.

Why are you running for this elected office? I have lived in Parsippany most of my life. I grew up here. I want to continue to do what is right for the residents of Parsippany.

What are the three issues that most concern you? The quality of life for our residents, taxes, and our town being more Transparent. Our residents deserve to know where their money is being spent. This is an on going issue I have had with our current administration since I became a councilman.

Explain your proposed approach to managing these issues. I will continue to scrutinize every dollar spent and look for ways to save out tax payer’s money. I proposed over 1.2 million dollars in budget cuts this last year alone which were approved and those cuts did not affect a single service to our township residents. I will continue to look for ways to generate revenue for our town which will in turn lower our taxes. I will continue to fight to make our township government transparent to all of our residents.

Have you held elected office before? I have been a councilman since September of 2010. I am currently the Council President.

What organizations do you belong to? Parishioner at St. Christopher’s Church, Sons of Italy

Republican Council Candidate: Loretta Ann Gragnani

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Loretta-Photo
Loretta Ann Gragnani

Full Name: Loretta Ann Gragnani

Office Seeking: Parsippany Troy-Hills Town Council

Party lines: Regular Republican Organization

Campaign website: ParsippanyWins2015.com

Facebook Page: Facebook.com/ParsippanyWins

What community do you live in? Rickland West

How long have you lived there? 47 Years

How old are you? Gentleman do not ask ladies their age.

Provide family information (married, single, children and ages). Married to Adam; two sons, Andrew 49, Peter 43

What is your education background? I am a partner in a kitchen and bath establishment in Parsippany Township; Ongoing education in new technology, building codes and design concepts; Erasmus Hall High School, Brooklyn, NY

Why do you think you are qualified for this position?  I work with people every day making decisions regarding their budget needs as to best cost, least cost for their project(s). As a member of the Finance Council of St. Ann Church we make budget decisions that affect the overall operations of our parish always keeping in mind what will best serve our parishioners.

I am currently a member of the Township Board of Adjustment serving since 2006 where decisions are made not only for the residents but our township.

Why are you running for this elected office? I want to get more involved in the decision making process that will affect this Township and its residents.  I love this town and would like to help protect the quality of life that we have come to enjoy.

What are the three issues that most concern you?

  • Court mandated low income and affordable housing
  • Reduce the office vacancy level in our township to increase our ratable base
  • Support our volunteers

Explain your proposed approach to managing these issues. 

    • Land that is available now (i.e. – Waterview Site). Should this parcel not be developed there is an application pending before the Parsippany Board of Adjustment with the possibility of 120 affordable units being built and placing a strain on educational and town services.
    • Encourage owners of commercial properties to enhance the exterior and interior of their buildings to attract new tenants.
    • The service  that our volunteers provide are essential to our township.
    • I have worked with our volunteers during Hurricane Irene and witnessed the day to day relief that they provided to our residents. If we were to pay for these services our taxes would have to increase significantly.

Have you held elected office before? No

What organizations do you belong to?

    • Morris County Women’s Republican Club
    • Parsippany Republican Club Member and Secretary
    • Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms Development Committee
    • Lake Hiawatha Business Association
    • National Kitchens and Bath Association (NKBA)

Township Council to hold Special Meeting regarding Waterview, Whole Foods

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Township Council to hold Special Meeting regarding Waterview, Whole Foods

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council will conduct a special meeting on Monday, November 2, at 6:00 in the Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard.

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss litigation over the lawsuit RD Realty vs. Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills and an application of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills for a “Determination of Mount Laurel Compliance.”

These matters will be discussed in closed session only.

Sources tell Parsippany Focus that Mayor Barberio will ask the Township Council to consider a settlement with RD Management which would permit a Whole Foods Market and several other stores to be built on the Waterview Tract.

In October 2013, the Township Council voted against creating an Overlay Zone at Waterview which would have permitted a mix use of Town Homes, and a shopping center which included a Whole Foods.

RD Management also has an application pending with the Parsippany Board of Adjustment for 120 affordable housing units which is scheduled to be heard in early December.

Regarding a possible settlement regarding Waterview, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. told Parsippany Focus, “As always I will continue to listen to and represent the people of Parsippany in what they want and not what others want.”

Mayor Barberio did not respond for a comment.

Sources tell Parsippany Focus that Whole Foods has also expressed interest in taking over the space currently occupied by Pathmark in the Troy Hills Shopping Center.

New Jersey Taxpayers’ Association Presents Taxpayer Advocate Awards

Nicolas Limanov
-
0
New Jersey Taxpayers’ Association Presents Taxpayer Advocate Awards

MORRIS COUNTY —  The New Jersey Taxpayers’ Association presented its 2015 NJTA Taxpayer Advocate Award recipients held on Wednesday, October 28.

Nominations were considered in four areas of focus: Shared Services / Consolidation, Open Government, School Choice and 2015 Special Achievement, all of whom contributed meaningful efforts to encourage government to find ways to reduce taxation in New Jersey.

This year’s recipient in the category of Shared Services / Consolidation was presented to Former Long Hill Township Mayor and current Executive Director or Courage to Connect New Jersey, Gina Genovese.

This year’s recipients in the category of Open Government was presented to State Senator Loretta Weinberg and State Senator Joe Pennacchio.

This year’s recipient in the category of School Choice was presented to State Assemblyman Anthony Bucco.

This year’s recipient in the category of 2015 Special Achievement was presented to Morris County Sheriff Ed Rochford.

The award recipients was recognized at the NJTA General Membership Meeting held at the Morris County Library, 30 East Hanover Avenue, Whippany.

PHS Marching Band: 2015 State Champions

Nicolas Limanov
-
0
PHS Marching Band: 2015 State Champions

PARSIPPANY — Congratulations Parsippany High School Marching Band for making First Place in the States Competition at the Highpoint Solutions Stadium Rutgers University and for bringing home the prestigious Marines Award!

Parsippany High School RedHawks Marching Band won the Group IV A 2015 State Championship. They took first place at the NJ State Competition for Best Music, Best Overall Effect. With a score of 92.9.

Senior Drum Major Dev Lad, Jordan Farrar and Brendan Laux holding the trophy
Senior Drum Major Dev Lad, Jordan Farrar and Brendan Laux holding the trophy

PHHS Drama Club to perform “M*A*S*H”

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
PHHS Drama Club to perform “M*A*S*H”

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School Drama Club announces its upcoming Fall play, MASH.

The show will be performed on Thursday, November 12; Friday, November 13 and Saturday, November 14.  Each show starts at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for senior citizens, and free for PTHSD students with Student ID. 

Parsippany Hills High School is located 20 Rita Drive.

The Parsippany Hills High School Drama Club practicing for M*A*S*H
The Parsippany Hills High School Drama Club practicing for M*A*S*H

Change your clocks tonight!

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Change your clocks tonight!

MORRIS COUNTY — Daylight Saving Time (DST) will end at exactly at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 1. The mornings will get lighter and the evenings darker and we will get an extra hour in bed.

Daylight Savings Time which is the act of setting clocks one hour forward during the spring, and one hour back during the fall.

The good news for the early risers is that sunrise will be about an hour earlier and there will be more light in the mornings, but it also means sunset will be at 4:53 p.m.

Don’t forget to set your clocks when going to bed this evening.

Driver hits utility pole; transported to hospital

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Driver hits utility pole; transported to hospital

PARSIPPANY — Ms. Rosemarie McGregor, 71, Parsippany was traveling westbound on Smith Road when she struck a utility pole. She stated she was reaching for a pair of sunglasses when she struck the utility pole.

Her vehicle was towed from the scene by C & L Towing.  She was transported by Parsippany Emergency Services to Morristown Medical Center.

There were no summons issued at the scene.  The accident was investigated by Patrolman Pasquale Parisi.

IMG_3148
Ms. McGregor was traveling west bound on Smith Road

Parsippany holds successful Trunk-or-Treat

Nicolas Limanov
-
0
Parsippany holds successful Trunk-or-Treat

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills hosted a successful Trunk-or-Treat on Friday, October 30.  The event was held at Veterans Memorial Park, Route 46.

The event attracted hundreds of children and their families. Participants decorated their vehicles and children went to each vehicle to retrieve their treats.

“Trunk or treating” — in which little ghouls and goblins collect candy from the back of cars parked at Veterans Park — is giving the door-to-door tradition a run for its money in Parsippany.

Parents like the idea because events are hosted by trusted people in safe, well-lit areas. Cars can be decorated, music and food is sometimes offered, and there’s no worry about losing track of little ones.

“This is a way to share with the community while making sure their holiday is safe and happy,” Council Vice President Robert Peluso said. “Everything is free. Our volunteer organizations also participate. Parsipany-Troy Hills Police Department, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire District 2, Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance and Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad all participated. It’s a lot of fun.”

Public Awareness for Halloween; Use of Marijuana Candy rising

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Public Awareness for Halloween; Use of Marijuana Candy rising

MORRIS COUNTY — The use of marijuana candy is rising in New Jersey, prompting the Morris County prosecutor and Parsippany-Troy Hills Police to issue a Halloween alert.

This poses serious health risks to users, especially children during Halloween. It is possible that children could accidentally receive marijuana candy. Adults should check for strange odors in candy received by children. Currently there is no information indicating that anyone would intentionally give out marijuana candy.

THC level in these products may be as high as 90% compared to 10 to 20% found in marijuana cigarettes. Marijuana candy is made with oil from marijuana plants. This oil is added to the candies during production. Marijuana chocolate is made by mixing marijuana oil with melted chocolate. Some marijuana products have different levels of THC, and the levels of products sold on the black market may be unknown.

There has been an increase in the variety of edible marijuana products available, including candy.The higher levels of THC in these products presents increased risk if ingested by children.

    Fact Sheet:

  • Indications & Physical Effects
  • Dizziness
  • Shallow low breathing
  • Red eyes/dilated pupils
  • Dry mouth
  • Increased appetite
  • Slow reaction time
  • Paranoia
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Short term memory loss
  • Distorted sense of time

Identification

  • Packaging may resemble popular brands
  • Emits an odor of marijuana when opened

Long Term Health Risks

<

ul>

  • Breathing problems
  • Cognitive impairment
  • PsychosisRecommendations
  • Wear vinyl or non-latex gloves when handling possible marijuana candy and throw the gloves away after use
  • Thoroughly wash hands after removing gloves and before eating, drinking, or smoking to prevent potential ingestion of drug particles
  • Contact Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department when you observe possible illegal drug-related activityIt should be noted that the Compassionate Use of Medical Marijuana Act (CUMMA) was signed into law in New Jersey to protect those who are authorized to use or produce marijuana for medical purposes from criminal proceedings. For more information, click here.

The Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (GCADA) has launched a statewide awareness campaign, “Addiction Does Not Discriminate” to help fight drug abuse by showing that no one is immune to the deadly drug problem. This program provides New Jersey residents with information on preventing abuse, recognizing those at risk, and finding treatment. Click here.

Senator Joe Pennacchio Honored by Chamber of Commerce

Letters to the Editor
-
0
Senator Joe Pennacchio Honored by Chamber of Commerce

Senator Joe Pennacchio`MORRIS COUNTY – The Morris County Chamber of Commerce today recognized New Jersey State Senator Joe Pennacchio for his legislative efforts by awarding him the “Alex DeCroce Public Leadership Award” at the chamber’s 2015 Annual Economic Outlook Luncheon in Florham Park.   

“Assemblyman DeCroce was a tireless advocate for small business and entrepreneurship not only in Morris County but throughout New Jersey.  I am especially honored that this recognition carries his name,” said Pennacchio. 

The Morris County Chamber of Commerce recognized the Senator’s efforts as a taxpayer champion and a strong advocate for the business community.  Pennacchio was recently honored by the New Jersey Taxpayers Association for his legislative efforts for Transparency and Open Government where he received the “Advocate for Open Government Award.”  He was also the recipient of the “Taxpayer Champion” award by the New Jersey Taxpayer Alliance where he received a perfect score and he received the “Guardian of Small Business Award” from the New Jersey Federation of Independent Business from 2008-2014.

Senator Pennacchio previously served in the New Jersey State Assembly, as well as on the Morris County Freeholder Board where he helped to bolster the Morris County economy by establishing a $75 million economic growth fund for Morris County and worked to secure funding for the Master Plan for the Picatinny Technology Transfer Program.  Senator Pennacchio is a former member of Governor DiFrancesco’s New Jersey Economic Development Authority and the Montville Economic Development Council. 

 “I am humbled that I am being recognized by the Morris County Chamber, a community of people who know me and my legislative work best,” concluded Senator Pennacchio.

 

Winner #1 – Ishita – Littleton Elementary School; 3rd Grade, 8 years old

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Winner #1 – Ishita – Littleton Elementary School; 3rd Grade, 8 years old

PARSIPPANY — The staff at Parsippany Focus has chosen three winners in our “Halloween Story Contest” for young readers.

The first winner is a student at Littleton Elementary School; 3rd Grade, 8 years old: Ishita Bandyopadhyay.

littleton_winner
Eight year old Ishita Bandyopadhyay

Ishita’s story was titled

“Monster Ville”

Are you scared of monsters? If you’re brave enough then come with me, come on, it’ll be fun. I am going on a trip to a village where all those monsters roam around. I take the “106 Monster Express”. I have some friends who live there_, wait train, wait I have to go to the village of monsters! Wait, wait, wait!_ Oh, sorry, I was talking to you so much that I almost forgot about my train! Now where was I? Oh yes, there’s Achoo, I know that’s a funny name, but it’s true, she sneezes all the time! There’s also Smelly and Slimy, they are the stinkiest and the slimiest monsters you’ll ever see. Oh, and another thing about Stinky and Slimy. _ Here we are at our first stop, the village of monsters, also known as Monster Ville. _ Oh no, no, no, no. It’s Slimy! He likes_; he got me, didn’t he? As I was saying, he and Smelly like to hug a lot. Their mom couldn’t choose their names over Hugsome and Huggy, or Smelly and Slimy! The mayor, my friend is Sleepy. I think you know what she does all day. I’ll give you a hint, it rhymes with peep. Yes, that’s right, sleep! Let me give you this warning, if you try and wake her up, she’ll use you as a teddy bear, sometimes even as a pillow! Last, but not least, Scarific, he likes to scare people out of their wits! If you act brave and don’t scream, then Scarific will keep on scaring you, so you better scream! And that my friend, all my monster friends are at Monster Ville! I hope you’ll come with me one day to the village of monsters! 

Congratulations Ishita.  Two other winners will be announced shortly.

Here’s how the contested worked: Our contest was open to students throughout Parsippany in kindergarten through grade 12. Young authors will provide their own original halloween story. Students are encouraged to include an illustration for their stories.

A team of Focus editors had a hard time in selecting the winners.  Winning writers will receive a $25.00 gift card, have their stories printed in Parsippany Focus and have the opportunity to read their story for a video on parsippanyfocus.com and receive a lunch for you the winner and his/her parents at a local Parsippany restaurant.

Halloween contest official rules

1. The contest is open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

2. All entries must be the original work of the student and no longer than 300 words.

4. Students are encouraged to submit illustrations with their stories. While the artwork will not be judged, some drawings will appear in an online gallery. Illustrations should be submitted on a separate piece of paper.

5. All entries and pictures should include the student’s name, age, school and grade.

6. Deadline for entries is 5:00 p.m. Saturday, October 23.

7. All stories must be submitted typed with photos attached including Name, email address and phone number and sent to news@parsippanyfocus.com. Include“Halloween Story” in the subject line. If drawing can’t be attached they can be mailed separately to Parsippany Focus, Post Office Box 6245, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054.

8. Stories or artwork cannot be returned.

9. Winners will be selected at the sole discretion of the Parsippany Focus staff.

Woman’s Club visited Parsippany Child Day Care Center

Letters to the Editor
-
0
Woman’s Club visited Parsippany Child Day Care Center

PARSIPPANY — Members of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills along with Parsippany Police Officer Brian Conover recently visited the Parsippany Child Day Care Center to speak to the children about safety.

October is National Crime Prevention Month.  McGruff, the “crime prevention dog” made a brief appearance.

He is a beloved and trusted crime-fighter for small children. There were several handouts and goodies for the children, including McGruff “Take a Bite out of Crime” Halloween bags, police badges and coloring books.  Everyone had a great time!

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC), which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.    For more information call Cathy at (973) 984-0758, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com or check us out on the web by clicking here.

Burglaries to vehicles at Park and Ride

Letters to the Editor
-
0
Burglaries to vehicles at Park and Ride

PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, October 28 Parsippany Police Department received a call reporting a burglary to their vehicle. Patrol Officer P. Parisi and P. Kolln responded to the scene and spoke to the victim.

The victim advised the Officers that an unknown actor(s) smashed her driver’s side rear passenger window on her 2015 Toyota Highlander between 6:00 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. on Wednesday.

During their investigation, officers also discovered that the unknown actor(s) attempted to steal the vehicle. The victim stated only a small amount of cash was removed from the vehicle.

While investigating the above incident Patrol Officer Parisi and P. Kolln checked the rest of the parking lot for other possible burglaries to automobiles. The Officers located a 2011 Mazda CX9 with a smashed driver’s side rear window.

The Officers also observed that the driver’s side front door was stolen.

This incident is still under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call the Investigative Division at (973) 263-4313.

PTSA and Parents Thanks Brooklawn Middle School Staff

Letters to the Editor
-
0
PTSA and Parents Thanks Brooklawn Middle School Staff

PARSIPPANY — Brooklawn Middle School families and their Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) joined efforts on Thursday to honor the entire Brooklawn staff for their professional efforts during the scheduling snafu during the month of September.

At last week’s Back to School Night on October 20, the PTSA collected cash donations that nearly topped $400 to provide a special luncheon over three lunch periods for the entire staff at Brooklawn on Thursday, October 29.

“The parents’ support was overwhelming!” said Anya Sheiffele, PTSA President at Brooklawn Middle School.  “We couldn’t be more proud of the BMS staff and this certainly shows how much parental support there is for our special group here at Brooklawn!”

The delicious luncheon was catered by John DiMaggio, owner of Denville Pizzeria, who provided three sets of lunch buffets. Desserts were donated by Brooklawn families and other extras were covered by the Brooklawn Middle School PTSA.

“It was wonderful to see the staff so touched by our efforts.  The thanks truly go to them.  Our kids are in great hands!”

The menu consisted of Penne Vodka, Eggplant Parmesan, Salad, Italian and Turkey subs, Crudités, Chips and for dessert: Chocolate Chip Cookies and Brownies

FullSizeRender[1]

1...511512513...570Page 512 of 570