American Heart Association Recognizes Delta Dental for Workplace Health Achievement

Frank L. Cahill
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American Heart Association Recognizes Delta Dental for Workplace Health Achievement

PARSIPPANY — On November 28, 2018, Delta Dental of New Jersey (DDNJ) formally received the American Heart Association (AHA) 2018 Workplace Health Achievement Bronze Level Recognition as a result of the significant steps they took to build a culture of health in the workplace.

More than 1,000 companies completed the AHA 2018 Workplace Health Achievement Index assessment measuring the effectiveness of their workplace health programs, as well as the overall heart health of their employees. Of these companies, 75 percent received either Gold, Silver, or Bronze recognition and 33 of these companies were based in New Jersey.

The Bronze Level Recognition was presented to DDNJ by Peter Cary, Senior Director of Corporate Health and Mission Engagement for the AHA. Companies recognized at the Bronze Level achieved an index score of 86-129 out of a maximum 217 points.

“At Delta Dental of New Jersey, our employees’ health and wellness is a priority and ingrained into our corporate culture,” said Dennis Wilson, CEO and President of Delta Dental of New Jersey. “We are honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association and will continue to invest in the health and well-being of our more than 250 employees in both New Jersey and Connecticut.”

The Index was created by the AHA’s CEO Roundtable members, a leadership collaborative of more than 40 CEOs from some of America’s largest companies who are committed to creating healthy companies and communities. According to the Nielsen 2016 Employee Health Survey, robust and comprehensive strategies for well-being are associated with positive impacts on employees’ health.

DDNJ offers its employees a variety of wellness programs, including: a walking club, stairwell challenges, Weight Watchers, blood pressure screenings, BMI assessments, yoga and other exercise classes in their wellness room, health-related educational sessions on various topics, including oral health, diabetes, and smoking cessation. DDNJ will continue to provide health-related programs to continuously improve the health and well-being of their associates.

Delta Dental of New Jersey, Inc. is New Jersey’s leading dental benefits company, providing or administering coverage to more than 1.7 million people through contracts with groups in New Jersey and Connecticut. In Connecticut, Delta Dental of Connecticut, Inc. is a licensed insurer that writes dental coverage on an insured basis, and Delta Dental of New Jersey administers self-funded dental benefit programs. For more information click here.

The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, click here or call any of our offices around the country. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Kwaku Agyemang was awarded first place for his entrepreneurship with a business

Frank L. Cahill
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Kwaku Agyemang was awarded first place for his entrepreneurship with a business

Rutgers University senior Kwaku Agyemang was awarded first place for his entrepreneurship with a business he co-owns: BrownMill Company (BrownMillCompany.com), a Piscataway-based fashion company on a mission to reduce the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills. Agyemang received a $1,500 cash prize and will advance to the next round of the competition taking place on January 10th and 11th in Denver, Colorado – and possibly to the global finals in Macau.

Runner-up was awarded to Princeton University Junior Todd Baldwin for  his entrepreneurship with WellPower,  a sustainable solution to off-grid clean water access.

“These college students are amazing. While studying for their various degrees, they are creating the future of New Jersey and opportunities for the US. We are so proud to have Kwaku Agyemang represent New Jersey at the National Finals,” said Michael Schofel, EO’s New Jersey’s GSEA Chair and Managing Partner of Eastman Companies. “We also thank the extraordinary efforts of the many New Jersey businesses and entrepreneurs from the state’s chapter of EO who helped make this happen, thanks to lending their expertise in finance, marketing, branding, and serial Entrepreneurship.”

We would love if you could help share the word on this year’s local winner! Please let me know if you would be interested in speaking with Michael Schofel, EO’s New Jersey’s GSEA Chair and Managing Partner of Eastman Companies or Kwaku Agyemang.

The Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) is an international program of Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), a global network of entrepreneurs helping the seeds grow in Houston and throughout the world with a membership of 13,000 entrepreneurs in 57 countries and more than 3.4 million employees worldwide.

Parsippany PBA and UPS donates toys to JBWS

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany PBA and UPS donates toys to JBWS
Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrolman Luke Crol carrying some of the toys donated by the employees of UPS

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills PBA Local 131 and the employees of the UPS Innovation Center located at 10 Upper Pond Road collected over 250 toys for this years annual toy-drive.

This year’s recipient was Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS) an organization aimed at helping domestic violence victims and their families.

Many thanks to the UPS employees who donated toys at their facility along with the residents of Parsippany who placed toys in the donation box located at Police Headquarters.

Jersey Battered Women’s Service in Morris County is a full-service domestic violence and domestic abuse prevention agency with volunteer opportunities. The services include a 24-hour hotline; counseling; safe house; transitional living; children’s services; life skills education; vocational counseling; batterers’ intervention; legal assistance; teen dating violence services; and professional training, education and youth prevention programs.

Morris County Dems seeking interns

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Dems seeking interns

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Democratic Committee is looking for interns for the spring of 2018 to help us in our efforts to get Democrats elected at all levels of government in Morris County.

2018 was a historic year for Morris County and in 2019, we have a chance to win a record number of local, county and Assembly races.

MCDC Interns will:

  • Manage social media for various campaigns
  • Recruit, train and manage volunteers
  • Coordinate voter outreach efforts
  • Draft press releases, speeches, scripts, and statements for candidates
  • Staff candidates at events
  • Help plan and organize events

If you or someone you know is interested in an internship with the Morris County Democratic Committee, please contact us at info@morrisdems.org or call us at (862) 260-9444.

Dinsmore announces first round of support: State Committeeman Casha, Former Chair Page and Former Freeholder Lyon all endorse

Frank L. Cahill
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Dinsmore announces first round of support: State Committeeman Casha, Former Chair Page and Former Freeholder Lyon all endorse

MORRIS COUNTY — Republican Leader Donald Dinsmore confirmed that he is indeed  a candidate for Morris County Freeholder.  “I am ready to use my experience in the private, public and non-profit sectors to benefit Morris County.” This announcement also comes with broad support from within the Republican Community.

Harding Township Mayor Christopher Yates stated “Don approaches every challenge intelligently and pragmatically, and he has helped his Town maintain its unique character, I know he can do the same for Morris County.”

Additionally, William Felegi President of the Jefferson Republican Club stated, “I have known Don for years, his commitment to improving our community and furthering the Republican cause is exceptional.”

County-wide Officials
Larry Casha, Republican State Committeeman
Hank Lyon, Former Morris County Freeholder
Patti Page, Former Morris County Republican Chair
Richard Wall, Former Morris County Undersheriff and Treasurer of Washington Township Republican Committee
James Barry,Former State Assemblyman

Local Officials & Activists
Marie Fragomeni, President, Boonton Republican Club
Doug Travers, Councilman, Borough of Butler
Bruce Harris, Mayor, Borough of Chatham
Len Resto, Councilman, Borough of Chatham
Curt Ritter, Mayor, Township of Chatham
Gene Fitzgerald, Former Councilman, Township of Denville
Kevin Scollans, Former Councilman, Township of Denville
Carol Spencer, Former Mayor and Councilwoman, Township of Denville
Susan Tietjan, Former Councilwoman, Township of East Hanover
Carmen Cefolo-Pane, Council President Borough of Florham Park
Christopher Yates, Mayor, Harding Township
Timothy Jones, Committeeman, Harding Township
Dev Modi, Committeeman, Harding Township
Nanette DiTosto, Committeewoman, Harding Township
Louis Lanzerotti,  Former Mayor and Committeeman Harding Township
Mike Flanagan, Republican Activist, Harding Township
William Felegi, Republican Club President- Jefferson Township and Former Vice-Chair Morris County Young Republicans
Jayson Kohut, Chairman, Jefferson Township Republican Committee
Jerry Stevenson, Former Republican Club President, Borough of Madison
June Witty, Councilwoman, Township of Montville
Lisa LoBiondo- Former President, Montville Republican Club
Jonathan Wright, Former Chairman, Morristown Republican Committee
Gene Paradiso, Republican Club President, Borough of Mount Arlington
Alex Roman, Councilman, Township of Mount Olive
Louis Valori, Chairman, Parsippany-Troy Hill Republican Committee, former Council President Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills
Karen Jordan, President, Randolph Republican Club
Gregg Forsbrey, Committeeman, Township of Washington
Bill Wolgamuth, President, Washington Township Republican Club
Chris Gabbett, Millennial Republican Activist and Madison County Committee Member
Jordan Chester, Former Vice Chair Morris County Young Republicans

Please note: Statements of endorsement are in those individual’s personal capacity, and are not necessarily an endorsement of the organization which they represent.

My name is Chalupa and I’m a 4-year-old Chihuahua!

Frank L. Cahill
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My name is Chalupa and I’m a 4-year-old Chihuahua!

PARSIPPANY — Hi! My name is Chalupa and I’m a 4-year-old Chihuahua!

I was rescued from a municipal, open-admissions shelter in New York who took me in when my family could no longer care for me. But, don’t be sad for me, now I can find my forever family!

My name is Chalupa and I’m a 4-year-old Chihuahua

My foster family says I do great with other dogs, cats, and kids! I am potty trained and am crate trained! And, guess what? I already know some basic commands!

My favorite place to hang out is right on top of a pillow on my foster family’s couch. This way I am at optimal height to get pets. What can I say? My name really should be King Chalupa!

Chalupa

I love having fun playing with my furry foster siblings. I also enjoy getting some belly rubs and meeting new people. My absolute favorite thing is when my family throws a party. I get so excited I can’t even contain myself! I love being best friends with everyone. I’m a social butterfly!

While I am definitely a fun dog, I am by no means hyper. I Netflix and chill on the couch as good as any other pup! I am really a perfect dog who’s well-trained, fun, happy, and affectionate.

If you are interested in adopting Chalupa, 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.

My foster family says I do great with other dogs, cats, and kids!

GOP offers minimum wage compromise with state sharing costs to increase after-tax income

Frank L. Cahill
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GOP offers minimum wage compromise with state sharing costs to increase after-tax income

MORRIS COUNTY — In a move toward a bipartisan wage hike, Republican Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco offered to help Democrats achieve higher take-home pay for minimum-wage earners without solely targeting employers.

“The business community is concerned about the ramp-up period,” explained Bucco (R-Morris).  “Assemblyman Hal Wirths and I put have put together a compromise that would raise the minimum wage over time to thirteen dollars an hour but increase the earned income tax credit to 80 percent.”

Bucco explained the plans while participating on a legislative panel with Senate President Steve Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin at the annual NJBIA public policy forum last Friday.

Democrat lawmakers are pushing an increase in the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour for most workers by 2024 and for all workers by 2029 under a plan put forward by Coughlin.

The Republican proposal increases the minimum wage to $13 over five years (A4464) and immediately raises the earned income tax credit to 80 percent of the federal level (A4465).

The plan also doubles the employer deduction for compensation paid by small businesses with less than 100 employees (A4466) to reduce higher labors costs from raising the minimum wage.

Bucco also raised concerns with the Democrat plan not protecting workers and businesses alike if there is an economic downturn.

“There has to be some sort of mechanism to slow this down if in fact we go into another deep recession like we saw in 2008,” said Bucco.

The GOP plan freezes the minimum wage for 18 months if employment drops over a three- or six-month period.

Bucco also cautioned lawmakers that raising the minimum wage without indexing the state’s income tax brackets could punish low-income earners by offsetting the potential pay raise with higher taxes.  Bucco sponsors a bill (A1399) that would adjust income-tax brackets to inflation so taxpayers don’t face tax hikes as a result of cost-of-living raises.

“As our low-income earners begin to see an increase in their salary they get pushed into the next tax bracket where they are now earning less,” asked Bucco.

Twenty-three states index their income tax brackets to inflation, and the federal government has since 1986.  It is widely considered a bipartisan tax policy to protect taxpayers from automatic tax hikes.

Governor Joins Parsippany’s Earth Friendly Products to Support $15 State Minimum Wage

Frank L. Cahill
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Governor Joins Parsippany’s Earth Friendly Products to Support $15 State Minimum Wage

PARSIPPANY — Governor Phil Murphy today joined Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, the president and CEO of Earth Friendly Products®, maker of more than 200 ECOS® brand green cleaning products, at the company’s Parsippany manufacturing plant located at 50 Lackawanna Avenue, to support a $15.00 state minimum wage and demonstrate how the company’s investment in its employees is fundamental to its long-term business success. Earth Friendly Products, which has operated in New Jersey for 30 years, starts employees at $17.00 an hour and increased its investment in the state’s economy and environment by opening a Parsippany facility in 2015 that is carbon neutral and Zero Waste Platinum certified.

Governor Phil Murphy and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano

Introducing Governor Phil Murphy was Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano. Soriano said “Parsippany is a great place to live, it’s also a great place to do business, even manufacturing. Earth Friendly Products takes care of its employees and worries about and takes cares of its environment. Right now, in the State of New Jersey if you work minimum wage for about 40 hours per week, for 52 weeks, no sick time, no vacation time you are going to make about $17,800 a year. That not a way to live. Think about that for one second. $17,800. I stand with Governor Murphy on promptly promoting our $15.00 minimum wage in the State of New Jersey. Our workforce deserves the same quality of living and standard that everyone enjoys. I am proud of Earth Friendly Products, with their line of ECOS products, operating right here in Parsippany. More money in employees pockets, means more money is being spending here in Parsippany, restaurants and retails stores. It’s going to boost our local economy and it’s going to help New Jersey. Contributing to a thriving small business culture.”

A Bronze Custom Portrait Sculpture of Kelly’s father, Van Vlahakis is displayed in the lobby of the Parsippany location

New Jersey legislators are considering legislation that would raise the state minimum wage to $15.00. Earth Friendly Products, a member of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, strongly supports raising New Jersey’s minimum wage to $15.00 an hour for all workers because it will boost consumer demand, benefit businesses in the form of lower employee turnover and increased employee productivity, and is vital to creating a sustainable economy.

“We know from our own experience that raising the minimum wage to $15.00 will help businesses and employees thrive,” Vlahakis-Hanks said. “We start employees at $17.00 an hour and provide great benefits while selling our products at competitive prices. Investing in our employees has improved our profitability, productivity, employee retention, quality control, customer satisfaction and ability to innovate and grow. Our products are produced in our U.S. facilities in New Jersey, California, Illinois and Washington state. We’re proud to say that our employees are our greatest brand ambassadors.”

ECOS® brand laundry detergent, household cleaners, baby products and pet products are sold at competitive prices in outlets ranging from small retailers to giants like Costco, Walmart and Target. Established in 1967, Earth Friendly Products attributes its decades of success to investing in employees, as well as breaking barriers in green science.

“A $15 minimum wage will not only lift up the current generation of New Jersey working families, but ensure fairness and opportunity for future generations,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “For the more than one million New Jersey workers who earn less than $15.00 an hour, the Legislature needs to act immediately to provide working families with the raise they need to live secure lives. A $15.00 minimum wage is integral to building a stronger and fairer New Jersey.”

Vlahakis-Hanks sees a fair state minimum wage as a powerful tool in stimulating across-the-board economic growth, from the neighborhood corner store to leading manufacturers like Earth Friendly Products.

“Raising the minimum wage creates a virtuous cycle of rising wages, consumer demand and job creation,” Vlahakis-Hanks said. “I can’t think of a faster, more direct way to boost the local business economy—yes, including sales of our cleaning products—than to put more money in the pockets of New Jersey workers. It’s a pro-business policy that I’d like to see extended to all New Jersey businesses and workers.”

Today’s plant tour and press conference comes as legislators weigh $15.00 minimum wage legislation. Last week, Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin introduced a bill that puts New Jersey’s minimum wage on a path to $15.00 an hour by January 2024 for some workers while businesses with fewer than 10 employees would not reach $15 until January of 2029—more than a decade from now.

“Rebranding Shop Small as Pay Small is the last thing small businesses need,” said Business for a Fair Minimum Wage CEO Holly Sklar. “We support a clean minimum wage bill that treats employees at businesses of all sizes the same—not giving employees of large corporations a raise, while workers at small businesses lag far behind. That would hurt New Jersey’s small businesses and diminish the consumer spending boost that comes from raising wages. Shortsighted small businesses that pay the lower minimum wage would have trouble hiring, see an increase in turnover as employees look elsewhere for pay they can live on, and undercut the customer service that keeps people coming through their doors.”

Earth Friendly Products has five plants located in Parsippany; Cypress, California; Addison, Illinois; Lacey, Washington and Athens, Greece.

Earth Friendly Products is a proud member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Benjamin Comora graduates from Troy University

Frank L. Cahill
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Benjamin Comora graduates from Troy University

PARSIPPANY —  Benjamin Comora graduated from Troy University during Term 1 of the 2018/2019 academic year.

Comora attended the Dothan Campus graduated with the Master of Business Administration degree.

Term 1 includes students at TROY’s campuses in Dothan, Phenix City and Montgomery, Ala., along with teaching sites outside of Alabama and online.

Troy University is a public, historic, international university with more than 145,000 alumni. Students choose TROY for its quality academic programs, reasonable costs and availability of financial aid, outstanding faculty, and flexible in-class and online class offerings. Students on the Troy, Ala. campus enjoy a traditional college experience, while working adult students are the centers of attention at campuses in Dothan, Montgomery and Phenix City, Ala., as well as at locations around the world and online.

Parsippany Education Foundation Awards $13,057.64 in Grants to Parsippany Schools

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Education Foundation Awards $13,057.64 in Grants to Parsippany Schools

PARSIPPANY — Supporting educational enrichment in the township, the Parsippany Education Foundation has awarded $13,057.64 to fund ten innovative programs during the 18-19 school year.  Spanning robotics, life skills, storytelling, music and literature, proposals were developed by teachers approved by principals and evaluated by the Foundation based on their ability to contribute to a positive, dynamic learning environment.

Blending life and business skill development for middle school students with special learning needs at Brooklawn Middle School, the “Up All Knight Cafe” will be an ongoing snack and coffee concession run by students focused on interpersonal communication plus forecasting, inventory control, production and cash management.  “The Cafe is a wonderful program we will use to apply academic and social training to the real world challenges of running a small business.  We are delighted to bring this opportunity to our students through the generosity of the Parsippany Educational Foundation and their donors,” said Teacher Laura Bailliard.

“Through the Chipwrecks and Redbots grant, our new student robotics club will be able to design and build a robot to compete in the worldwide First Tech Challenge from the organization For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST).  Robotics challenges our students to solve problems across physics, computer science, mathematics, CAD engineering and more,” said Teacher Ellesa Effner of Parsippany Hills High School.

A check for $13,057.64 was presented to the Parsippany Board of Education by Parsippany Education Foundation President Stella Gizas, Recording Secretary Debbie Bogaert and ex officio member and Parsippany BOE member Joseph Cistaro, on November 15.  “Our Parsippany Education Foundation serves as Guardian Angels for our educators.  They work hard to fundraise and support our teachers and administrators in bringing innovative and meaningful learning opportunities that reflect our district’s Strategic Plan and enrich our students’ school lives,” said Dr. Barbara Sargent, Superintendent of the Parsippany Troy Hills School District.

The Parsippany Educational Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization established in 1996 to enrich the opportunities and experiences of students in the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District. The Foundation has contributed over $350,000 in grants to the district raised through private donors, annual spring golf outing and events held through the year.  Its Board of Directors consists of volunteers committed to developing a community of learners.

Please visit their website by clicking here  for more information and like their Facebook page.

Knoll Golf Club Information Meeting

Frank L. Cahill
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Knoll Golf Club Information Meeting

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will be hosting an informative meeting on Wednesday, December 19, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Knoll West Grille Room.

They will be producing the long term vision, master place for both Knoll courses, going over 2019 membership and programming options, closing with an open question and answer seminar.

Click here to register, in an attempt to have a headcount to deliver to the caterer with ample time. We would love for you all to attend. Appetizers will be served.

Knoll Country Club West is located at 990 Greenbank Road Boonton, NJ 07005 (For GPS purposes).

What Happened After Once Upon a Time … The play by Alex Alfieri

Frank L. Cahill
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What Happened After Once Upon a Time … The play by Alex Alfieri

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Christian School Forensics class will be performing its first play of the school year this Friday night, December 14 at 7:00 p.m. at Parsippany Baptist Church at 1179 Littleton Road.

The play by Alex Alfieri is titled, What Happened After Once Upon a Time. According to Tara Marine, director and Forensics teacher, “It’s the story of some well known fairy tale characters including Cinderella, Snow White, and Jack and the Bean Stalk. We all think we know these characters pretty well, but in Alfieri’s humorous interpretation, their stories are not all that accurate. Cinderella is an OCD neat freak who really didn’t want to go to the ball. Snow White is a drill sergeant, and so it’s a humorous spin on some of your favorite fairy tale characters.”
 
The play is pure fun for all the actors who range in age from nine to eighteen. Some of the cast have been part of Parsippany Christian’s Forensics program for five years under Marine’s direction. 
 
Grace Reinke plays the lead role of the story teller. Marine says, “She has a very natural and sensitive understanding of the character whose emotions range from euphoria at meeting  her childhood fairy tale idols and then absolute chagrin when she learns what these characters are really like.”
 
The role of Rapunzel is played by Katheryn Jurado who won first place the last two years in state forensic competitions in both drama and poetry categories.
 
The role of Jack is played by Logan Marine who has also won first place two years in a row in the state forensics competition in Humorous Interpretation. The Big Bad Wolf is played by Matthew Rotondo, another state completion winner. Other members of Marine’s cast have been part of her award winning Readers’ Theatre and Acting groups. 
 
What Happened After Once Upon a Time opens on Friday, December 14 at 7:00 pm. Admission is free and the play is good, clean fun for any age group.

Bucco, DeCroce solution to Class III police officer shortage in schools advances in Assembly committee

Frank L. Cahill
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Bucco, DeCroce solution to Class III police officer shortage in schools advances in Assembly committee

MORRIS COUNTY — An Assembly panel advanced a measure requested by Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco and Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce to address a shortage of Class III police officers to protect our schools.  The bill (A1400) makes retired state and county corrections officers eligible for the classification.

State Assemblyman Anthony Bucco. (File Photo)

The program was initiated through legislation sponsored by Bucco and signed into law in 2016 by then-Governor Chris Christie. The law allows retired police officers to work in schools to help protect the community. Law enforcement experts have predicted a shortage of available officers because of the stringent hiring requirements and an increase in demand by municipalities and school districts.

“Schools have scrambled to find retired police officers for several years and we want to make sure that more trained officers are available before they have to hire private security guards with less experience and at a higher cost,” said Bucco (R-Morris). “More than ever before, schools across the state are looking for special police officers to help protect our school communities.  These officers are in demand because they often come from the community and are familiar with the local police department and the school system.”

The uniformed, armed officers work part time and get paid at a lower scale, making it the most affordable option for placing guards in schools.  The special officers are paid about $30 or $40 an hour and are not entitled to a pension or benefits for their service, but they still report to the local chief of police.

“Retired corrections officers are job tested and proven in high-pressure situations,” said DeCroce (R-Morris).  “Their experience calming tensions and resolving confrontation will make the halls, cafeterias and playgrounds safer, and they will be ready to immediately respond to emergencies.”

A version of the bill (A4451) passed the Assembly 75-0 in May 2017 but was not taken up in the state Senate.

Pennacchio Blasts Conagra for ‘Gutless’ Christmas Layoffs Announcement 

Frank L. Cahill
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Pennacchio Blasts Conagra for ‘Gutless’ Christmas Layoffs Announcement 

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio today blasted Conagra for announcing, two weeks before Christmas, that they will eliminate more than 500 jobs in New Jersey, including more than 300 positions in Parsippany, a town in the senator’s district.

Senator Joe Pennacchio

Senator Joe Pennacchio blasted Conagra for announcing, two weeks before Christmas, that they will eliminate more than 500 jobs in New Jersey, including more than 300 positions in Parsippany, a town in the senator’s district.

“I have one thing to say to Conagra – shame on you,” Senator Pennacchio said. “Announcing layoffs two weeks before Christmas is a gutless and soulless thing to do.”

Conagra announced that it will eliminate 308 jobs at Pinnacle Food’s former headquarters in Parsippany, and 196 jobs at the Woodcrest Road offices in Cherry Hill, according to a December 8, 2018 Parsippany Focus article (click here for full article).

“Conagra just purchased Pinnacle in October. They knew exactly what they were doing. They couldn’t care less about the hundreds of people who have spent years working in Parsippany,” Pennacchio added.

“I am a strong supporter of the business community, but I’ll always put my constituents first. There is no denying that Governor Murphy’s bad-for-business agenda is forcing companies out of state, but to be clear – that’s not what happened here. Conagra knew what they were getting into. It seems like they bought Pinnacle, just to make a quick buck. That is shameful.

“If any of the families who are coping with these layoffs are in need of toys for their children, or any other type of assistance in the wake of this upheaval, please reach out to my district office by calling (973) 227-4012. We will help you in any way we can.”

Zwigard to lead Morris County Republican Victory PAC

Frank L. Cahill
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Zwigard to lead Morris County Republican Victory PAC

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Republican Victory PAC (MRVP) has appointed Robert Zwigard as its new Chairman. According to Zwigard, former Executive Director of MRVP, “I am pleased to take over this organization that has a 14-year history supporting Republican success in Morris County”. I would also like to thank Tim Smith for his leadership of the PAC as Chair in 2018”. Smith resigned this November because he is moving to Florida.

MRVP has helped campaigns through financial, strategic and in-kind grass-roots support of municipal and other campaigns throughout Morris County. In 2018 MRVP opened a centrally located Morristown campaign office that hosted volunteers who made greater than 20,000 calls and distributed hundreds of signs and thousands of literature packets in support of the Republican ticket from the local to the county to the federal level. MRVP also gave support to local campaigns.

In 2019, MRVP plans to continue to work with fellow Republicans to broaden the party’s base and help increase Republican victories and turnout on the local level.

According to Zwigard, “We are ready to work hard to bring resources to key Morris municipalities to help them spread the Republican message of efficient and effective government leadership. We look forward to helping to increase economic success and quality of life of Morris County residents by promoting Republican principles.”

Morris County Young Republicans installs new officers

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Young Republicans installs new officers

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Young Republicans installed their 2019 officers at their annual Holiday Party. The officers are Sydney Ugalde, President; Brian Mulligan, Vice President; Julie Laptaka, Secretary; Joe Bock, Treasurer; Justin Musella – State Committeeman, Morris Township; and Tia Fritze, State Committeewoman, Roxbury.

This event, sponsored by Sheriff James Gannon was attended by Morris County Republicans, including numerous Elected Officials including Freeholders Tom Mastrangelo, Heather Darling and Kathryn A. DeFillippo.

Sydney Ugalde honored Morris Plains Mayor Frank Druetzler as honorary chair. Brielle Cook received a plaque for Volunteer of the Year.

The Morris County chapter of the Young Republicans is one of the most influential in the state, and is affiliated with the New Jersey Young Republican Federation and the Young Republican National Federation.

At Morris County Young Republicans Christmas Party & Installation at Lake Valhalla Country Club in Montville – Great new slate of officers sworn in by Sheriff James Gannon including Sydney Ugalde, President, Joe Bock, Brielle Cook and Justin Musella
Sydney Ugalde gives a tribute to retiring 32-year Morris Plains Mayor Frank Dreutzler
Justin Musella, Joe Bock, Sydney Ugalde and Brielle Cook, President Montville Republican Club
Sheriff James Gannon swearing in the officers for Morris County Young Republicans, while Ken Schwemmer holds the bible.

The Morris County Young Republicans are determined to grow our membership and build strong Republican networks in all of the 39 municipalities in Morris County. They encourage YOU and anyone you know to join their club by donating yearly dues of just $35.00. You may bring a check made payable to “Morris County Young Republicans” to their next meeting, or mail a check to our office at 26 Schuyler Place, Morristown, NJ 07960. You can also pay online by credit card by visiting the “Contribute” page on our website. Membership dues allow our club to grow and run events that benefit Republicans at all levels. For club voting rights, members must be registered Republicans between ages 18-40 and live in Morris County but they welcome any of their friends outside of those requirements to join as Associate Members and to attend all of the events.

For more information on Morris County Young Republicans, click here.

1 United MMA House celebrates First Anniversary

Frank L. Cahill
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1 United MMA House celebrates First Anniversary

PARSIPPANY — Recently, 1 United MMA House celebrated its “First Anniversary” with a ribbon cutting ceremony by Mayor Michael Soriano and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member Ildiko Peluso, Nicolas Limanov, President Robert Peluso and Executive Board Member Frank Cahill attended the ceremony.

1 United Mixed Martial Arts House aims to create a positive atmosphere for their clients by upholding the highest levels of integrity and character. They are here to help our members reach their goals whether physical or mental.

Family members with Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill with owners Yusuf Yoldas and Ibrahim Yoldas

Owner Yusuf Yoldas said “after over a decade of experience in both training in mixed martial arts, I pride myself on sharing the knowledge and skills I have attained with my students. I started training at the age of 13 and took a break along the way to dedicate my time to soccer. After becoming a top player in my high school and various club teams, I returned to martial arts and attained my black belt at the age of 18. In 2010 entered the world of strength and conditioning and became a professional MMA competitor. I have traveled the country and trained under dozens of professional athletes who offered me a great deal of information. This has allowed me to attend various conventions in which I advanced my skill level.  By learning a great deal about mixed martial arts and strength and conditioning I am able to better assist my students in reaching their fitness goals. Combining these two skills has allowed me to gain insights into two completely different forms of art that complement each other perfectly. Helping students of all ages has allowed me to gain a sense of self-fulfillment that I would not otherwise experience, allowing me to truly say that teaching has become my pride and joy.”

Owner Ibrahim Yoldas, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill and Owner Yusuf Yoldas ready to cut the ribbon celebrating 1 United MMA House First Anniversary Celebration

His brother, Ibrahim Yoldas, said “Coming from a family having three siblings, I realized that setting the example for my younger brother Abdu was very important to me. I always followed in the footsteps of my older brother Yusuf and I wanted to instill the same values in my younger brother. Seeing my older brother train daily inspired me to start training by the age of 14. After a certain amount of time I grew to realize that it’s not all about fighting, it’s about discipline. Within four years of training, I prepared my mind and body to work at the same pace in order to obtain my black belt by the age of 18. Over the course of the next four years I apprenticed at a local personal training studio and health club where I learned how to cater to all age groups and with clients who had pre existing medical conditions and specific injuries. I value and appreciate all the people that contributed to my growth up to this point, which in turn lead my brothers and I to embark on this new journey.”

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano cuts the ribbon celebrating 1 United MMA House anniversary
Owner Ibrahim Yoldas, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill and Owner Yusuf Yoldas celebrating 1 United MMA House First Anniversary Celebration

1 United MMA House  is located at 96 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.

 

Applebees hosted Annual Breakfast with Santa

Frank L. Cahill
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Applebees hosted Annual Breakfast with Santa

PARSIPPANY — Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar® 1057 Route 46, Troy Hills Shopping Center, held its annual Breakfast with Santa fundraiser on Saturday, December 8.

The fundraiser supports the efforts of the U.S. Marines Corps Toys for Tots program, which distributes new toys to underprivileged children to provide a tangible sign of hope to as many economically disadvantaged children as possible at Christmas.

Guests enjoyed breakfast compliments of Applebee’s along with goodies, raffle tickets for door prizes and the opportunity to take a photo with Santa Claus.

Tickets to Breakfast with Santa was purchased in advance for $10.00 each.

Children under the age of two are admitted free of charge. Applebee’s raised additional funds by selling paper “gift tags” for $1.00 or $5.00 each, which were displayed at the restaurant. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the Breakfast with Santa events and “gift tag” purchases will be donated directly to the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program to be distributed to local families.

Hennion & Walsh (located in Waterview Plaza, 2001 Route 46) donated over 100 toys for “Toys for tots” breakfast with Santa at Applebee’s. In addition, Sons of Italy #2561 Morris County donated toys for the event.

“It’s an honor to host our 20th annual Breakfast with Santa fundraiser in partnership with Toys for Tots,” said Tim Doherty, President and Chief Executive Officer of Doherty Enterprises. “We are thrilled to be able to support this amazing organization and all they do for the development of area children and our local communities, especially when we can make the holidays a little brighter. We look forward to spending the day with our employees and guests to celebrate the holidays and the season of giving.”

Heading into its 20th year, Applebee’s locations owned and operated by Doherty Enterprises, which owns more than 100 Applebee’s restaurants across New Jersey, Long Island, Florida and Georgia, have raised over $4.3 million for the Toys for Tots initiative to date, helping to spread holiday cheer to over 230,000 deserving children.

“We are very pleased to continue our partnership with Doherty – Applebee’s, a national corporate sponsor of the 2018 Marine Toys for Tots Campaign,” said Lieutenant General Pete Osman, USMC (Ret), President and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Their community service goals certainly align with those the Marine Corps has promoted for over 70 years through our Toys for Tots Program.” Osman concluded, “With their generous support we will be able to fulfill the Christmas holiday dreams of thousands of less fortunate children who otherwise might be forgotten.”

Letter to the editor: When will Parsippany Accept What is Best for All?

Letters to the Editor
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parsippany focusDear Editor:

At the Parsippany Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 4, Lisa Plevin (Highlands Council Executive Administrator) and two members of her staff presented information on the process and benefits of conformance with the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act.  Following their presentation a resolution was put forth to allow Parsippany to petition the Highlands to be in conformance with the regional master plan.  It was approved, but the vote was 3 to 2. Those in opposition indicated some lack of familiarity with the act and its associated regional planning benefits of conformance. The vote enabled a resolution to be placed on the agenda for the December 18 meeting which will formally petition the Highlands Council for participation in Highlands conformance.

As Parsippany is now moving to create a new master plan this is a perfect time to do what is best for all. The Highlands Council provides experts in the science of land use and natural resource protection and can help Parsippany manage its land and water resources in many ways as well as provide grants for these programs, minimizing the associated costs to the township. These new programs will also improve quality of life for residents by controlling flooding, improving the quality of lakes, ensuring the quantity of water needed and preserving open space, among other benefits.

The Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act was signed on August 10, 2004 and Parsippany has been involved in some fashion since 2009. This information is readily available and should be common knowledge to any elected official. Parsippany had been on the path to conformance when it was derailed by a false claim that participation would cause a year or more delay in remediating a sewage plant problem.  Unfortunately, this also made it impossible for Parsippany to use Highlands conformance protections in its fight against the Waterview project.  In hindsight, Parsippany has suffered and continues to suffer unnecessary problems and resident distress due to not being in conformance.

At the December 4th Council Meeting one member (who voted NO on the resolution) implied that if “conformance” cannot help us reduce our housing number, its other benefits, good land use practices and planning grants obtained from experts, are not worth having. While using good land and water management practices may have a side benefit of preventing unwanted housing construction this is not the main reason why Parsippany should conform.  The alternative would be to continue to allow private corporate developers to decide Parsippany’s fate as they have in the past, ignoring environmental and community concerns, in effect ignoring our own master plan in favor of developers immediate short term plans rather than long term comprehensive planning.

Defending our remaining environmentally sensitive areas and natural resources, especially our aquifer, is about all Parsippany can hope for and this should be a neutral and nonpartisan move forward in the creation of our new master plan. If community elected officials cannot agree on environmental issues of concern, then something is lost in our common humanity.

Parsippany has proven in the past to be an easy mark for corporate developer market schemes, that has left our town over-developed and now vulnerable under the illusion of home rule and developers lawsuits, which Parsippany tax payers have had to pay for. (Including the local open space fund scam of $3.5 million to RD for a buffer that could have been handled by proper zoning).

It can be argued that Regional Planning strengthens rather than weakens local government and the health of local communities. A new Parsippany master plan should be a full prioritization of human and environmental requirements in harmony with the Highlands Master Plan which should be a covenant between the Municipally and it’s residents, not silly putty in the hands of corporate developers. A vote against Highlands Conformance is a vote against Parsippany itself. Any who cannot see the benefits possible here are blind or being arbitrary and capricious.

We encourage all Parsippany residents who want to improve our ability to manage our resources using best scientific practices to come to the town council meeting on December 18th and ask the council to vote YES on conformance.

Nick Homyak
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034

Joshua Michael Knowle earns “Eagle Scout”

Frank L. Cahill
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Joshua Michael Knowle earns “Eagle Scout”

PARSIPPANY — At the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Joshua Michael Knowle on Saturday, December 8, Josh 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. Josh started as a Scout on September 19, 2002. Officially, the trail starts with the Tenderfoot rank (April 3, 2013) and continues through Second (August 10, 2013) and First Class (June 4, 2014) 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 (October 8, 2014) , the second is Life Scout (April 13, 2016), and, finally, Eagle Scout (September 20, 2018).

The presentation of the Eagle Scout badge is an important and serious event, the goal for which a Scout works many years, an occasion for pride and joy, a time for serious contemplation. It is the culmination of efforts of the various leaders of this Scout. The Eagle Scout Award is the highest and most coveted rank in Scouting—the last major step in the advancement program. Fewer than 4% of all Scouts in the United States reach the Eagle Scout rank. Josh Knowle has achieved our purpose in the building of character, training of leadership, and the practice of serving.

The requirements for the Eagle Scout rank are as follows:

1. Be active in your troop and patrol for at least six months as a Life Scout.

2. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Law in your everyday life.

3. Earn 21 merit badges, including the 13 that are required—First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Communication, Cooking, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving, Environmental Science or Sustainability, Personal Management, Swimming or Hiking or Cycling, Camping, and Family Life. Josh earned 51 badges.

4. Serve actively in an approved position of responsibility for a period of six months after becoming a Life Scout.

5. Plan, develop, and lead others in carrying out a service project worthy of an Eagle Scout.

6. Take part in a Scoutmaster conference.

7. Appear before a board of review of prominent persons, and satisfy them that you have done your best to understand and live up to the Scout Oath and Law and, in all ways, qualify for the Eagle Scout Award.

Among the 51 badges John earned were: American Heritage, Archery, Aviation, Camping, Chemistry, Chess, Citizenship in Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the World, Climbing, Communications, Composite Materials, Cookings Crime Prevention, Digital Technology, Disability Awareness, Electricity, Electronics, Emergency Preparedness, Engineering, Environmental Science, Family Life, Fingerprinting, Fire Safety, First Aid, Fishing, Game Design, Genealogy, Geology, Home Repair, Indian Lore, Metal Work, Music, Personal Fitness, Personal Management, Pioneering, Plant Science, Pottery, Radio, Railroading, Reading, Rifle Shooting, Robotics, Safety, Search and Rescue, Scholarship, Swimming, Traffic Safety, Wilderness Survival and Wood Carving.

Josh is a member of The Parsippany Police Department Explorers. He is currently a Junior at Parsippany High School.

Josh with his parents Sandie and Ronald

Josh’s Eagle Scout project included the complete renovation of the flagpole at Central Middle School. 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. (Click here to read complete story).

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

Josh received special acknowledgements from Mayor Michael Soriano; Councilman Michael dePierro on behalf of the Township Council, Parsippany Rotary Club, Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, Assemblyman Jay Webber and Senator Joe Pennacchio; Michael dePierro on behalf of American Legion Post 249; Nicolas Limanov, Board Member of  Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany; Executive Board Member Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Frank Cahill; Parsippany-Troy Hills Superintendent Dr. Barbara Sergent and Board of Education President Frank Neglia; Sheriff James Gannon; Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Andrew Miller and Parsippany-Troy Hills Lieutenant Keith Lefferts on behalf of Parsippany Police Department Police Explorers with explorers Esther Hsieh and Michael Fiorentino; Wise Animal Rescue; Eric Bisch from the Parsippany Elks Lodge 2078 and Former Mayor James Barberio.

For over 60 Years Troop 72 has served the youth of the general Parsippany area, including Boonton, Denville, Parsippany, and Morris Plains. Boys from ages 11 to 18 are invited to join.

Starting in 1961, between Troop 72 and Troop 177 there were 92 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, Troop 72; 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, Troop 177; 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, Adam Warner, Troop 72, Alex Adams, Troop 72, Rahul Patel, Troop 72, Rushi Desai, Troop 72 and Joshua Michael Knowle, Troop 72.

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