Narcotics Task Force Make First Degree Drug Arrest and Seize Handgun

Frank L. Cahill
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Narcotics Task Force Make First Degree Drug Arrest and Seize Handgun

ROXBURY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Chief Marc Palanchi of the Roxbury Township Police Department announce the arrest of an individual for first-degree possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute.

Members of the Roxbury Township Police Department and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit received information concerning an individual distributing illegal narcotics in Morris and surrounding counties. Roxbury Police Detectives and members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement/Narcotics Task Force initiated an investigation that resulted in the arrest of the individual, and the seizure of 200 grams of cocaine, over $17,000 in US currency, a handgun loaded with hollow point bullets, and a motor vehicle that was being used to transport the narcotics.

As a result of the investigation and seizures, Terrance T. Clemens, 41, Newark, was charged with the following:

  • One count of first-degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute.
  • One count of second-degree Certain Person not to have Weapons (Handgun).
  • One count of second-degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine).
  • One count of second-degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with the Intent to Distribute (cocaine).
  • Two counts of third-degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine).

On March 30, Clemens was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a first appearance.

Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp wishes to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit (Narcotics Task Force), the Roxbury Township Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office for their efforts related to this investigation.

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

 

Morris County 2017 budget shows increase

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County 2017 budget shows increase

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County homeowners will pay an average of $18 more annually in property taxes to fund the services and programs provided by Morris County government through the 2017 county budget introduced by the Board of Freeholders Wednesday, March 22.

The proposed $332.1 million budget includes a tax rate increase of 1.79 percent, according to the board.

The 2017 budget remains within a state-set cap provides level spending in most areas except for contractual employee health insurance, which increased by $6 million.

The budget allows the county to remain financially and operationally efficient. It maintains and, in some areas, expands public safety initiatives; sustains all human services programs, and ensures maintenance of all countywide infrastructure projects.

It also, supports countywide economic development and tourism initiatives, protects the county’s long-standing, top-ranked Triple A bond rating; and preserves a stable level of fund balance required for well-run, top-ranked county governments.

In addition, the freeholders have maintained the county’s voter-approved preservation trust fund that finances vital open space, farmland and historic preservation projects, and provides money for recreational trails and flood mitigation.

To view the proposed 2017 county budget, and previous county budgets, click here.

“Through this budget, Morris County will continue to be the premier place in which to live, work, and raise a family in New Jersey,’’ said Freeholder Christine Myers, chair of the freeholders’ budget subcommittee. “Our county will continue to build our vibrant and sustainable economy and preserve our natural resources and history,’’ she added.

Freeholder Katheryn A. DeFillippo

“We will honor our unique quality of life, assure a safe, well-maintained infrastructure and offer cultural and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike,’’ said Freeholder Kathy DeFillippo, a member of the budget subcommittee. “We will continue to offer compassionate support to those in need and maintain our tradition as a caring community.’’

The 2017 Operating Budget represents a “Year of Transition,” featuring initiatives such as outsourcing of the Morris View Healthcare Center and introduction of a county-wide EMS Program.

It also includes a full year of costs related to Criminal Justice Reform, completion of the remaining Renewable Energy Sites in the county’s Solar II Program, are all conservatively presented.

“We have carefully scrutinized all aspects of county operations to make sure we operate in a lean manner, while offering services that maintain Morris County’s quality of life, by running a modern, efficient and cost effective operation,’’ said Freeholder said Freeholder and Budget Subcommittee member Deborah Smith. “At the same time, the board continues to look at the big picture, at county long-term needs such as a new or enhanced court complex, to ensure we properly plan for the future while ensuring the effective, efficient and ethical stewardship of our residents’ hard earned tax dollars.’’

While maintaining a tight rein on spending, the freeholders’ proposed 2017 budget continues to invest in key programs and initiatives that maintain the high quality of life in the county.

Ongoing Investments in Education, Recreation, and Human Services, include:

• $13.7 million: Morris County Park Commission
• $11.8 million: County College of Morris
• $7 million: Community Based Human Services Agencies
• $6.2 million: Morris County School of Technology
• $5.1 million: Morris County Library and Heritage Commission
• $400,000: Economic Development and Tourism

The 2017 capital budget strategically authorizes $27.1 million to responsibly deal with critical infrastructure needs, with a continued emphasis on:

• $7.8 million: Road improvements, to continue upgrading the county’s road network;
• $4 million: Building and Structure Improvements, including Criminal Justice Reform;
• $2.4 million: Bridge design and replacement projects;
• $2.3 million: Law and Public Safety Equipment;
• $2.2 million: Educational facilities;
• $2.2 million: Public Works Equipment
• $1.5 million: Information Technology

The 2017 Morris County budget also will fund a wide variety of vital Human Services that county residents expect, including more than 500,000 meals annually provided to Morris County’s senior citizens, operation of the Morris View Healthcare Center, which remains home to 283 individuals, a wide variety of Human/Social Service programs, including Aging, Disabilities, and Veteran Services; Mental Health Services, Substance Abuse Services, Emergency Assistance Services and Transportation Services.

The freeholders will consider adoption of their budget at 7:00 p.m. at their Wednesday, April 22 meeting at the Morris Plains Borough Hall, 531 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains.

CCM testing center awarded certification

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM testing center awarded certification

RANDOLPH — The Testing Center at the County College of Morris was recently awarded with a Test Center Certification by the National College Testing Association for serving as a nationwide leader in testing practices.

The County College of Morris Testing Center is only one of two National College Testing Association certified post secondary testing centers in New Jersey and only one of 159 certified centers in the United States and Canada.

“We are grateful to everyone at CCM who has played a role in our achieving this status,” Testing Center supervisor Kevin Chen said. “This recognition is provided only to those centers that have demonstrated exemplary practices in testing. We are pleased and honored to have gained that recognition as part of providing CCM students with a quality educational experience.”

The Testing Center is responsible for all basic skills placement testing on campus and for proctoring exams for online testing for online and hybrid courses.

In addition, the center provides proctoring services for other schools and organizations as needed.

The center is a member of and adheres to National College Testing Association professional standards and guidelines and is an active participant in the Consortium of College Testing Centers.

The National College Testing Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion of professionalism and high-quality service in the administration of testing programs at the post secondary level.

Randolph Kiwanis Club holds second annual Pins 4 Pets fundraiser

Frank L. Cahill
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Randolph Kiwanis Club holds second annual Pins 4 Pets fundraiser

PARSIPPANY — Nearly twice the amount of bowlers came out for the Randolph Kiwanis Club‘s second annual Pins 4 Pets fundraiser than last year. The event was held at the Rockaway Lanes bowling alley on Sunday, March 26. Members of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany were the winners. The winning team members were Deborah Mellinger-Young, Bob Young, President Gregory Elbin, Karen DeChristopher and Joanne Rich.

Almost 100 bowlers participated in the event which raised over $1,200 which included funds raised from the event itself and donation by the Kiwanis Club to benefit the animals at the Eleventh Hour Rescue.

Last year, over fifty bowlers turned out for the event, which raised a total of $1,140 to benefit the Friends of Randolph Animal Pound.

Eleventh Hour Rescue takes in cats and dogs that have medical issues and help return them to full health and find a home.

Eleventh Hour Rescue is a no kill animal rescue and has their shelter located at 861 Route 10, Randolph Township. For more information, click here.

The organization also has a store in Rockaway Mall called Annie’s Pooch Pets and just opened a location in the Roxbury Mall where the rescue brings animals on Saturdays and Sundays in the hope of finding them a home.

A $50 gift certificate to the Randolph Diner was awarded to the team with the highest score.

Everyone is invited to attend a meeting every Thursday morning at 7:15 a.m. at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46, Parsippany. For more information click here

The scoreboard tells it all

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Northvail School Brings Pinocchio Back To Life

Frank L. Cahill
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Northvail School Brings Pinocchio Back To Life

PARSIPPANY — The fifth grade students from Northvail Elementary School performed the musical  “No Strings Attached,” which is an adaptation of Pinocchio. Geppetto, the old woodcarver, and his marionette son Pinocchio came to life amidst a cast of clever, talented characters during the production. Once a “real” boy, curiosity and temptation gets Pinocchio into trouble and he learns about the consequences of his actions. Ultimately he also learns of his capacity for change. 

Basic Skills Math teacher Mrs. Serrao, Second Grade teacher Mrs. DeGeorge, and Principal Mr. Jeff Martens graciously assisted the fifth graders purely on their free time prior to the production. In addition, they arranged the special effects, music, and custom costumes in cooperation with the fifth grade parents.

The play was a huge success and enjoyed by everyone. Our fifth grade students should all be applauded for their fantastic job performing the musical.

Home Depot Holds Children’s Workshop

Frank L. Cahill
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Home Depot Holds Children’s Workshop

PARSIPPANY — The Home Depot Kids Workshop is a free class for kids held the first Saturday of every month at the Home Depot, 780 Route 46. It’s one of the favorite free activities for kids and you won’t want to miss it.

When a child goes to the Home Depot Kids Workshop, they’ll get a free project kit they can complete during the workshop and then take home when they’re finished. In addition to the free workshop and project kit, they’ll also get a free kid-sized orange apron, certificate of achievement, and commemorative pin for a job well done.

You can drop in with your child anytime during the workshop class but make sure that they’ll have enough time to complete their project before it ends. An adult will need to stay with the child during the entirety of the Home Depot Kids Workshop.

Shown above is six year old Parsippany resident Eddie Chiappa, who completed his own Bunny Basket.

You’ll want to register for the Home Depot kids workshops to make sure your child has a spot and there are enough building materials to go around. These sometimes fill up quickly, so if you think you’re child may like the class, be sure to sign up as soon as you can.

On Saturday, May 6, the children will build a Flower Pot. Click here to register for this event.

United Way Conference Offers Caregivers Information, Resources

Frank L. Cahill
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United Way Conference Offers Caregivers Information, Resources

MORRIS COUNTY — United Way of Northern New Jersey Caregivers Coalition will hold a Caregivers Conference on Saturday, April 29, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, providing area caregivers with access to information and resources critical to their role of caring for a loved one.

The free conference will provide presentations and resources to help unpaid caregivers who assist loved ones of any age who are ill, frail or living with a disability or mental illness. A complimentary breakfast will be provided.

The 10th annual Caregivers Conference in Morris County will explore topics that provide family caregivers with valuable information from local experts and connections to local resources.

“Caregivers often find themselves in this role without preparation or education and all while juggling their own lives,” said United Way Caregivers Coalition Manager Stephanie Howland. “United Way is dedicated to ensuring caregivers within our communities have access to the supports and resources they need to sustain themselves as caregivers.”

During the conference caregivers can attend the following presentations:

  • Have You Updated Your Documents Based Upon the New Estate Taxes?: Robert Bernstein, of the Morristown-based Bernstein Estate Law firm, will discuss how the changes in estate taxes will affect documents such as wills and trusts.
  • Are You Legally Prepared?: Debra Eckert-Casha, partner and attorney-at-law, Casha & Casha, LLC, will speak about the importance of an advanced directive, power of attorney and special needs trusts for loved ones.

The Coalition brings together caregivers, medical professionals, social service agencies, businesses and other community groups to support unpaid caregivers.

Copies of the recently updated United Way Caregivers Coalition’s “Pathways for Caregivers” will also be available. This free guide contains information, ideas and support for providing care for loved ones. There are separate sections on aging, disabilities, and mental health issues, as well as information on veteran services. The guide is also available online by clicking here.

Caregivers are the family members and friends who help their loved ones with a range of tasks from paying bills or driving to doctors, to personal care such as bathing and dressing, to medical care such as administering medication.

In addition, United Way thanks Gold Sponsors Arbor Terrace Morris Plains and Comfort Keepers for helping to make this conference free for caregivers.

Conference space is limited. Register by clicking here.

The event will be held at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of New Jersey, 60 North Jefferson Road, Whippany.

For more information, email Stephanie.Howland@UnitedWayNNJ.org or call (973) 993-1160, ext. 534.

 

Relay For Life of Central Morris County holds kick-off celebration

Frank L. Cahill
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Relay For Life of Central Morris County holds kick-off celebration

PARSIPPANY — Relay for Life of Central Morris County recently held its kick-off celebration at American Cancer Society Headquarters, 7 Ridgedale Avenue, Cedar Knolls. The attendees had a chance to learn about the opportunities about joining the 2017 Relay of Life event. They learned how to celebrate cancer survivors and caregivers, and how to remember those lost and how to “Make a Difference.” Relay for Life is looking for people to get involved. Cancer touches us all in one way or the other.

Relay for Life of Central Morris County encompasses support from eight towns: Parsippany-Troy Hills, Denville, Rockaway Borough, Wharton, Mountain Lakes, Rockaway Township, Dover and Randolph Township.

Co-Chairwoman Karen DeChristopher with Council Candidate Brian Stanton

This year, the event will be held on Saturday, June 10 with registration starting at 2:00 p.m. and continues through Sunday, June 11 at 6:00 a.m. at Veteran Memorial Park, 1839 Route 46 at Vail Road, Parsippany. Western Pest Services is sponsoring the event.

As the nation’s largest fundraising event, Relay For Life of Central Morris County rallies families, friends, businesses, schools, hospitals, service and faith-based organizations in communities throughout Morris County and beyond and is asking you to participate in the event by: starting or joining a team, making a donation, sponsoring the event, purchasing a track sign or just coming out to show your support to those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and by providing an opportunity for everyone to fight back against the disease. They are also looking for survivors and caregivers, as we would love for you to join us so that we can celebrate and honor you during our special Survivor activities and dinner, as well as during the Luminaria Ceremony.

Austin Desavino showing guests Mary’s Wig Room – The American Cancer Society thanks the family of Mary F. Marvin for their generous support to the wig program and honors her memory by dedicating many of the wig rooms in New York and New Jersey as Mary’s Wig Room.

In attendance was Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Rockaway Borough Mayor Russell Greuter, Randolph Township Mayor Christine Carey, Denville Mayor Thomas Andes, Denville Councilman Douglas N. Gabel, Parsippany Council Vice President Robert Peluso, Parsippany Council Candidates Casey Parikh and Brian Stanton, and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill. Applebee’s of Parsippany provided the delicious food for the evening.

Council Gabel is the team captain of Denville Township Council Cruisers. To join Gabel’s team, click here.

Council Candidate Casey Parikh (left), Council Candidate Brian Stanton and Mayoral Candidate Robert Peluso (right) congratulate the committee of the 2017 Relay for Life Central Morris

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life movement is the world’s largest and most impactful fundraising event to end cancer. It unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all. With the support of thousands of volunteers like you, the American Cancer Society is helping save more than 500 lives a day. Please join us and take action against a disease that has taken too much!

Laura Donnelly discusses the Mission of American Cancer Society
Karen DeChristopher with Parsippany Focus Publisher Frank Cahill

For more information about getting involved, making a donation, sponsoring the event and/or purchasing a track sign, contact Karen DeChristopher, Event Co-Chair, at karen.dechristopher@gmail.com. Visit their website by clicking here or like their Facebook page for event details.

Karen DeChristopher provided the opening remarks and welcome

The American Cancer Society is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

Littleton School fifth grader donates hair to benefit children with hair loss

Frank L. Cahill
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Littleton School fifth grader donates hair to benefit children with hair loss

PARSIPPANY — A Littleton School fifth grader has cut and donated her hair to benefit children with hair loss– for the third time.

Janey Smith has donated her hair three times in just eleven years

Janey Smith, 11, has donated her hair three times in just eleven years, an impressive feat considering that’s how old she is. That’s about 30 inches of hair.

This time she donated her hair to Children With Hair Loss, a charity that makes wigs for children with medical conditions that cause hair loss. In 2016, the organization made wigs for 528 children.

Children With Hair Loss is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides human hair replacements at no cost to children and young adults facing medically-related hair loss.

When a child’s hair is lost due to Cancer treatments, Alopecia, Trichotillomania, Burns, etc., the painful effects are far deeper than just cosmetic. Each year, the number of children requesting our hair replacements increases and with support, they can continue to increase the number of children they are able to help in the future.

Fall Festival returns on Sunday, September 17; Vendors wanted

Frank L. Cahill
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Fall Festival returns on Sunday, September 17; Vendors wanted

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills announced the annual Fall Festival will take place this year on Sunday, September 17 from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 p.m. on North Beverwyck Road.

The town-wide celebration not only provides an opportunity to highlight township programs, services, organizations and businesses, but also encourages community spirit.

The generosity of the business community has played a large role in the success of the past festivals. For those businesses and organizations wanting to participate click here and print a registration form. Please be sure to submit your forms as soon as possible.

Diane and Sara Manganelli, Lake Hiawatha Daily

Parsippany’s 16th Annual Fall Festival promises to be one of the most successful festivals yet. There will be entertainment, rides, and other attractions to help bring out people to the event.

The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is offering spaces on a first come first serve basis. Display spaces vary depending on location and intended use. Vendors that are selling food will be distributed along the entire area with priority given to local food vendors and local organizations selling food. Lake Hiawatha merchants have first preference on the space in front of their establishments as long as a completed registration form and the required fee are received at the Recreation Department by August 25.

Payton Saltenberger, 6, and Sydney Strumolo, 5, enjoying coloring at the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany display at the 15th Annual Fall Festival Street Fair

Discounts apply if registration is received at the Recreation Department office or postmarked before August 4. All registration forms must be received at the Recreation Dept. office or postmarked by September 8. Late registrations will NOT be accepted and returned. If you or your group wishes to participate, please complete the agreement by clicking here and mail to Parsippany Recreation, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard, Parsippany New Jersey 07054.

If you have any questions, please email recreation@parsippany.net.

Please note: The township reserves the right to limit the type and number of vendors and/or displays. You must submit a separate form for each location if you require more than one location/space. Please make checks payable to: Township of Parsippany, Fall Festival 2017.

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