Quick Thinking Junior Firefighter Josh Lefferts saves the day

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Quick Thinking Junior Firefighter Josh Lefferts saves the day

PARSIPPANY — Friday, March 2 started out as a normal day for Josh Lefferts. After school he drove to the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, where he wants to become a full member after graduating high school in June.

But as Josh entered the parking lot, he noticed a tree had fallen across the train tracks adjacent to the fire station. Knowing that this train is mainly a commuter line he felt it was critical to stop the trains and remove the tree.

He immediately ran inside the firehouse and told Rainbow Lakes Fire Chief Doug Reighard. “They looked out the window of the firehouse but could not see the tree,” Josh said. Then he and Russ Greuter went outside and located the tree. “Russ said go get everyone else in the Firehouse and get a chain saw so we can clear the tree out the way,” Josh recalls.

At that time they called the New Jersey Transit Police to advise them of the situation and to shut down the railway. They also assigned “spotters” on each side of the tracks to see if there were any coming trains.

Because of Josh’s quick thinking and acting, they were able to cut the tree in pieces and remove it off the tracks before any trains travelled those tracks.

After they were all done clearing the tracks, New Jersey Transit Police arrived and about ten minutes later a commuter train passed through the area,  that once contained the fallen tree.

Mayor Michael Soriano said “It is a testament to the vigilance and volunteerism Parsippany’s bravest.”

The New Jersey Transit commuter train minutes after the tracks were cleared of the fallen tree

Had the junior firefighter not identified that hazard no one would know what could have happened, however ten minutes after they cleared the tree off the tracks a commuter train came through at normal speed. 

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Lieutenant Keith Lefferts said “I’m very proud of Josh. I’m proud of what he did. He did the right thing, reporting what he saw. We don’t know what would have happened if the train hit the tree, but thanks to Josh, we won’t have to find out.” 

Josh Lefferts is a proud Junior Firefighter for the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department
Some of the remains of the tree that was cut off and removed off the tracks
Josh in the area where the tree had fallen on the train tracks

Josh has been a junior firefighter for almost a year and he will turn 18 on September 6 and will then enroll in Firefighter School to become a volunteer Fireman for Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department. He currently is a senior at Morris Knolls High School.

Sons of Italy cooks for Par-Troy Wrestling Fundraiser

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Sons of Italy cooks for Par-Troy Wrestling Fundraiser

PARSIPPANY — Sons of Italy Chapter 2561 sponsored a fundraiser for Par-Troy Wrestling Club.  The fundraiser was held at Parsippany Volunteer Fire District 5, 180 Old Bloomfield Road on Saturday, February 24.

Included with the pasta dinner, cooked by the Sons of Italy members, are homemade meatballs, bread, salad and dessert.

Kiwanis K-Kid member Christine Baumann, and her mom Jackie
Scott Massefski and his family
Kiwanis K-Kid member Anthony Caponegro enjoying the pasta dinner at the fundraiser
Sons of Italy member Ralph Rocco serving the pastaco
Par-Troy Wrestling Club Board Member June Madina
Nando Caldarone, Raffaele Rocco, Domenick Rocco, Joseph Jannarone, Jr., Domenick Regina, Ralph Rocco, Juan, Erberto Carluccio and Dominick Regina were cooking in the kitchen
People waiting for their food
The room was packed with guests

Parsippany is such a large town that its children’s wrestling programs are traditionally split into two teams – the Parsippany Redhawks and the Parsippany Hills Vikings. Both had long-established histories, successes, and victories. As strong as both teams functioned separately, coaches, wrestlers, and parents knew that if they joined forces to create one team Parsippany Wrestling would become a major squad.

This became a reality in the spring of 2010. The Par-Troy Wrestling Club was formed with the motto, “One Town. One Team.”

PTWC registers children from grades kindergarten through eighth grade and participates in a number of competitive wrestling leagues. Their function with a full Executive Board and Executive Committee Members. Their major annual fundraiser is a two-day Holiday Tournament with teams gathering from all over. Over the years PTWC boasts successes of all the kids, including:

  • New Jersey Kids State Qualifying Wrestlers, Place Winners and Champions
  • Participation and Great Success in Numerous Leagues: Grade School, Passaic County, Tri-County, Future Stars, Northwest NJ K-6, North Jersey, Northern NJ Gold and Silver Teams, and King of the Mat
  • Place Winners and Champions at Competitive Tournaments
  • Bronze Certified Coaches
  • Alumni Wrestlers who move on and are highly successful at Parsippany High School, Parsippany Hills High School, and local private programs

The full roster looks forward to more success under the club’s long list of qualified coaches. The 2016-2017 season will include participation of teams in five competitive leagues and local tournaments.

For more information on Par-Troy Wrestling, click here.

Driver taken into custody over warrant from ICE

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Driver taken into custody over warrant from ICE

PARSIPPANY — On February 25, Morris County Park Police Officers executed a motor-vehicle stop for an equipment violation. He was stopped on Route 10 Eastbound in Parsippany.

An investigation revealed that Luai A. Nour, 47, Bloomfield, to have a warrant from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

He was also found to have a warrant for failure to appear in Irvington Municipal Court. He was able to pay the required bail of $275.00 and was issued a new court date.

He was issued a summons for Driving While Suspended.

Mr. Nour was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

“Icanbike’’ Program for Disabled Residents Coming to Morris County

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
“Icanbike’’ Program for Disabled Residents Coming to Morris County

PARSIPPANY — A special biking camp for persons ages eight and older with disabilities is going to be held for the first time ever in Morris County this summer, at the County College of Morris in Randolph during the week of August 6.

The weeklong iCanBike program teaches participants to ride independently through a week of training.

Using adapted, custom-built bike equipment, and with assistance from trained professionals and volunteers, participants in the five-day iCanBike program receive 75 minutes of daily instruction.

The riders each will have two-to-three volunteer “spotters” to offer encouragement and provide physical support, if needed. The goal is to have each rider graduate to her or his own bicycle by the end of the week.

“This is a remarkable program that can benefit an important segment of our community,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Director Doug Cabana. “We thank the organizers for bringing it to Morris County.’’

The iCanBike program, which is a nonprofit endeavor, will be held at CCM from August 6 to August 10, said camp organizers Diane Doherty and Judy Lauber. The cost is $200.00.

“Biking has the potential for being a family activity since everyone can ride together,’’ said Doherty.

“For the campers, biking is a monumental accomplishment. And their families can sit back and enjoy watching the participants having fun.’’

“For the campers, biking can build self-esteem, improve their confidence and improve their physical fitness,’’ said Lauber, who along with Doherty is an avid cyclist.

Each daily session will have a maximum of eight participants, with five sessions per day, so this summer’s iCanBike at CCM can accommodate a total of 40 participants.

It will be held indoors from Monday through Friday. But riders who acquire enough skill will be able to ride outdoors for part of the week in a roped off parking area, with their volunteer spotters.

“This is a great opportunity for people with disabilities to learn to independently ride,’’ said Marty Epstein, the owner of Marty’s Reliable Cycle, and the bike shop sponsor of the event.

The Morris Area Freewheelers Foundation also is a sponsor. Their mission is to promote safe cycling and advance the awareness about the role of cycling in the community.

The Hyatt House Hotel also is sponsoring the program, and is facilitating reservations

For professional staff members from iCanShine, Inc., which is the national organization.

“This is a unique and rewarding program,’’ said Doherty, who said that donations would gladly be accepted by the nonprofit group to help cover the expenses of running the camp.

To learn more about iCanBike camp or register, click here.

Dr. Selimo to present seminar for first responders

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Dr. Selimo to present seminar for first responders

PARSIPPANY — Dr. Patrick Selimo, of Parsippany, is offering a FREE Seminar on Thursday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the Parsippany Public Library, 449 Halsey Road.

Dr. Pat has been a Parsippany resident for 45 years and is currently a Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany member as well as a Parsippany Chamber of Commerce member. As a community service to the awesome EMT, Firefighters, Police, and area residents. Dr. Pat will be hosting this FREE presentation which has been developed with the intention of helping these public servants have a more productive, injury free, and longer career.

The three departments listed above have physically taxing careers that can sometimes lead to career ending disabilities. The information presented will give these groups some powerful information that will prevent early retirement from occurring, and, teach them a way of obtaining  an optimal level of health.

On behalf of Synergy Chiropractic and the town of Parsippany, Dr. Pat is truly honored to have the opportunity to to present this information to such an outstanding group of public servants who play a vital  role in helping this town be as AWESOME as it is to work, play and live in.

Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department Fish and Chips Dinner

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department Fish and Chips Dinner

PARSIPPANY — Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department held a Fish or Chicken and Chips Dinner on Friday, February 23.

Funds from this event help support many of the community activities the all volunteer fire company performs. The dinners was catered by Argyles Restaurant. (Argyles is known for its Scottish style Fish & Chips)

Due to a mechanical problem with one of the three fryers from Argyles not getting hot enough to properly cook they experienced some delays in serving at our usual pace.

The volunteers were able to serve 250 meals.

We thank everyone for their patience and next years event will be Friday, March 15, 2019.

Argyle’s Scottish style Fish & Chips has been featured on several television programs, in New Jersey Monthly magazine, as well as in many local newspapers. They attract a largely Scottish, Irish and English clientele from all over the country and around the world – and frequently encounter visitors from Scotland and Ireland just dropping in for some “home cooked food.”

Update: Power Outages; Roads Closed; Property and Vehicles damaged

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Update: Power Outages; Roads Closed; Property and Vehicles damaged

PARSIPPANY —The Morris County Office of Emergency Management had a briefing with JCP&L earlier today. Based on that briefing there are currently more than 35,000 customers in Morris County without power.

Never go near a downed power line, even if they think it is no longer carrying electricity. Extra caution should be used in areas where downed lines are tangled in trees or other debris. This tree was resting on power lines on Beachwood Road, Lake Parsippany

It is estimated that Parsippany-Troy Hills has 1199 locations without power. Union Road is in progress, Moraine Road is also in progress and the following four roads should be today. Lake Shore Drive, Puddingstone Road, Knoll Road and Lord Stirling Drive will also have crews out today attempting repairs. JCP&L is predicting that the entirety of Parsippany will have all power restored by 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 6. If you encounter any downed electrical lines please call Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department non emergency phone number at (973) 263-4300 or in the case of a life threatening emergency dial 911.

On Sunday afternoon Mayor Michael Soriano said “I would like to thank the first responders for their diligence and hard work. We are blessed to have dedicated professionals that work at our Police department, Office of Emergency Management, Ambulance services, Parks & Forestry Department, and Department of Public Works. We also have dedicated people in our six Fire Departments, our Volunteer Ambulance Squads, and Rescue and Recovery, Health and Human Services.  I also want to thank the Knoll Community Center, Library staff and the the PAL for serving as warming and comfort stations for people who were in need because of the storm.”

Trees landed on a car on Richard Street

At the height of the storm on Friday, more than 54,000 JCP&L customers reported outages in Morris County. Randolph had the most customers affected with more than 8,000, or 75 percent of total customers.

Friday’s nor’easter brought winds up to 40 to 50 miles per hour with rain and some snow in parts of Morris County.

Due to the magnitude of the outage, getting specific information on the restoration time for a particular neighborhood or street is not possible at this time while JCP&L remains in storm mode.

Water and Ice are available at these locations for JCP&L customers currently without power:

Acme Supermarkets, 329 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains
Acme Supermarkets, 550 Myrtle Avenue, Boonton
Acme Supermarkets, 123 East Main Street, Denville

For a complete list click here.

If you need power or you need a shower, Lakeland Hills YMCA is available. If you reside in their service area (Parsippany, Boonton, Boonton Township, Butler, Denville, Kinnelon, Lincoln Park, Montville, Mountain Lakes, Pequannock, and Riverdale) and are still experiencing a power outage from the storm, they welcome you to come warm up at the Y! Feel free to come take a shower, and power your devices, and visit with neighbors going through the same thing. Non-members must present photo ID. Pass the word in your neighborhood. They close at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 4.

You can also use the Parsippany-Troy Hills Library at 449 Halsey Road, until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday to warm up or to power your devices.

JCP&L advised Morris County OEM they still have facilities and residences that have not been entered into their outage system.

It is imperative that all locations without power are entered into their system. To report outages, customers may call 1-888-LIGHTSS (888-544-4877), go to www.jcp-l.com, or click on the “Report Outage” link on www.firstenergycorp.com.

This is what gives JCP&L the ability to manage the prioritization process and make sure all power is restored.

 

 

Morris County Narcotics Task Force Makes Drugs and Guns Arrests

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Morris County Narcotics Task Force Makes Drugs and Guns Arrests

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announces the arrest of three individuals stemming from an investigation into the illegal distribution of narcotics and firearms.

parsippany newspaper
Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp

This joint investigation was conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit/Narcotics Task Force and, the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force, the Mt. Olive Police Department, the Dover Police Department, the Byram Police Department, the New Jersey State Police and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation culminated on Thursday, March 1, when several Court authorized warrants were executed and led to the seizure of two handguns, thirty-five rounds of ammunition, over one half ounce of cocaine, over six pounds of marijuana, drug distribution related paraphernalia and the profits of criminal activity in excess of $14,000 United States currency.

The following individuals were arrested as a result of this investigation:

Defendant: Naeem White

  • Two counts of first-degree unlawful possession of a weapon (Handgun) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5b(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5j.
  • Two counts of second-degree Certain Persons Not to Possess a Weapon (Handgun) in violation of  N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7b(1)
  • Two counts of second-degree possession of a weapon while committing a CDS related offense (Handgun), in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4.1a
  • Two counts of third-degree distribution of CDS within 1000 feet of a school zone (Cocaine) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7a
  • Two counts of third-degree possession of CDS with the intent to distribute within 1000 feet of a school zone (Cocaine) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7A
  • Four counts of third-degree distribution of CDS (Cocaine) in violation of 2C:35-5a(1) and 5b(3).
  • Four counts of third-degree possession of CDS with the intent to distribute (Cocaine) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1) and 5b(3)
  • Four counts of third-degree possession of CDS (Cocaine) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1)
  • One count of third-degree distribution of CDS within 1000 feet of a school zone (Marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7a
  • One count of third-degree possession of CDS with the intent to distribute within 1000 feet of a school zone (Marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7a
  • One count of third-degree receiving stolen property (Handgun) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:20-7a
  • One count of fourth-degree distribution of CDS (Marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1) and 5b(12)
  • One count of fourth-degree possession of CDS with the intent to distribute (Marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1) and 5b(12)
  • Two counts of fourth-degree distribution of a weapon (Handgun) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9d
  • One count of a disorderly persons offense of possession of CDS (Marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(4)

Defendant: Christian Mojica

  • One count of first-degree unlawful possession of a weapon (Handgun) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5b(1)
  • One count of second-degree Certain Person Not to Possess a Weapon (Handgun) in violation of  N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7b(1)
  • One count of second degree possession of CDS with the intent to distribute (Marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1) and 5b(10)(b)
  • One count of fourth-degree possession of CDS (Marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(3)
  • One count of a disorderly persons offence of possession of drug paraphernalia, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2

Defendant: Darryl Riggs

  • One count of third-degree possession of CDS with the intent to distribute (Marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1) and 5b(11)
  • One count of fourth-degree possession of CDS (Marijuana) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(3)
  • One count of a disorderly persons offense of possession of drug paraphernali, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2

Pursuant to the Bail Reform law, Naeem White and Christian Mojica were lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a first appearance and pre-trial detention hearing.  Darryl Riggs charged on a summons complaint.

Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp wishes to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit (Narcotics Task Force and its participating agencies), the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force, the Mt. Olive Police Department, the Dover Police Department, the Byram Police Department, the New Jersey State Police and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office for their efforts related to this investigation.

Prosecutor Knapp said, “This joint investigation coordinated by our Narcotics Task Force resulted in the arrests of individuals responsible for distributing illegal firearms and drugs in our communities. The success of this investigation would not have been possible without the commitment of the law enforcement agencies who worked cooperatively with the Narcotics Task Force.”

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

 

Longhorn Steakhouse renews PACC membership

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Longhorn Steakhouse renews PACC membership

PARSIPPANY – Longhorn Steakhouse, 690 Route 46, has renewed their membership in the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Longhorn is a casual steakhouse chain known for grilled beef and other American dishes in a ranch-style space. LongHorn Steakhouse’s steaks are filled with juicy flavors. LongHorn Steakhouse is creating healthy meals that are enticing to anyone’s taste buds. A night out deserves a drink to celebrate, and this restaurant has the perfect selection of beer and wine to go with your meal. Got kids? No problem at LongHorn Steakhouse! This restaurant is a fantastic spot for families to dine together.

Pictured above is Longhorn’s General Manager, David Nelson, with Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Welcoming Committee Chairman Dr. Patrick Selimo.

PACC is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents, and volunteers that provides education, information, and networking opportunities to the Parsippany Area. We work with our local and county governments and stand ready to pursue any matter that can make our community a better place in which to live, conduct business, and make a living. We promote a healthy and more prosperous economic climate.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is located at 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322, Parsippany. For more information call (973) 402-6400.

“The Drowsy Chaperone!” will be performed by The Parsippany Hills Players

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
“The Drowsy Chaperone!” will be performed by The Parsippany Hills Players

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Hills Players of Parsippany Hills High School will be performing their 2018 Spring Musical starting on Thursday, March 15 at 7:00 p.m.

This year’s production is “The Drowsy Chaperone!” The students of PHHS, ranging from Freshmen to Seniors, have been hard at work since January rehearsing nearly every day to bring this hilarious Tony award winning show to life.

The cast consists of Dan Gardner, Nicolette Kelly,  Anthony Paterno, Teresa Folan, Jackie Pascale, Mikayla Acree, Brittani Vecchia, Shoumik Vaddi, Ruth Kowalski, Meera Iyer, Jake Hockwitt, Brianna Davies, Brian Davies, Chris Berardo, Mia Maccarella, Abby Lee, Virginia Lanza, Catie O’Neill, Laila Kirsten, Sabrina Vacardipane, Rafaella Espinosa, Alyssa Borino, Abby Marin, Abby Wilson, Jake Murphy, Tinalyn Nguyen, Caroline Berardo, Scarlette Horvath, Janna Belfiore, Rosie Walek, Sarah Fichter, Tara Antonacci,  David Sinchi, Jack Reppen, Sam Reppen,  Aishling McCarthy, Amanda Yorlano, Carolyn Modin, Davida Padi, Angelina Robie, Bethany Powell, Dhaara Bhatt, Marta Torres, Disharee Dastidar, Vanessa Iradi, Meghan Lalo, Rachel Klemovitch, Will Ferentinos, Amol Srivastava, Olivia Isakssan, Sarah Zigman and Samantha Catalini.

Show dates are Thursday, March 15, Friday, March 16, and Saturday, March 17 at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are sold at the door. $10.00 Adults; $5.00 Senior Citizens and Non District Students; PTHSD Students with school ID free.

Performances are held in the auditorium of Parsippany Hills High School, 20 Rita Drive.

1...727728729...1,144Page 728 of 1,144