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Parsippany has been named #1 place to live in New Jersey by Money Magazine

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany has been named #1 place to live in New Jersey by Money Magazine

PARSIPPANY — Every year, MONEY ranks the Best Places to Live in the U.S. Because of the criteria considered, some states end up being represented more than once—and others not at all. Now, using data from that ranking, they crunched the numbers to find the best place to live in every state. As in their previous rankings, they considered everything from the cost of buying a home to median household income. The results surfaced favorite stand-bys, well-known cities, and plenty of hidden gems. Parsippany has been ranked #1 place to live in New Jersey.

“While the choice of where you live is a personal one, this ranking aims to highlight notable cities—maybe even your own—all across the country. Here are the 50 places that are the best in their states,” Shaina Mishkin.

Mayor Michael Soriano stated “Between our diverse community, our schools and the low crime, and the volunteer culture and cultural activities we have here, Parsippany a truly unique community in New Jersey.  I’m proud to lead New Jersey’s #1 community.”

“Parsippany has a deep-rooted history and culture of neighbors and friends helping one another and being raised in Parsippany. I saw this first hand. Parsippany is the best place to live due to our residents, dedicated volunteers and township employees,” said Robert Peluso, former VP of the Council and current volunteer chairman of Economic Development Advisory Committee.

According to Money Magazine a few things that make Parsippany stand out are:

Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey

Population: 53,910
Median Household Income: $95,779
Median Home Listing Price: $549,000

New York commuters looking for a good place to raise a family should consider Parsippany-Troy Hills, only thirty miles away from Manhattan. The area has among the best public schools in the state: 96% of city high school students graduate, and students outpace the national math and reading test averages by wide margins. Violent and property crimes are significantly lower in Parsippany-Troy Hills compared to the rest of the country, and the city is slightly more diverse than the rest of the state. Plus, the town isn’t just for urbanites: Parsippany-Troy Hills boasts 30 parks, including Knoll Park, Lake Parsippany Park, and Cameron Dog Park—and is so green it became an Arbor Day Foundation-designated Tree City USA.

 

Bucco bill increasing school bus safety moves to governor’s desk

Frank L. Cahill
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Bucco bill increasing school bus safety moves to governor’s desk

MORRIS COUNTY — The Assembly advanced legislation to improve school bus safety by requiring school district transportation supervisors to complete a training program. Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco sponsored the bill (A2436) following a rash of school bus crashes, including a fatal wreck involving a Paramus school district bus.

Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco

“Creating a culture of school-bus safety begins with supervisors at the top,” said Bucco (R-Morris). “Recent accidents raise serious concerns about the supervision of the drivers entrusted with the lives of our children. Well-trained managers will ensure their drivers are dedicated to obeying the rules and protecting their young passengers.”

New hires and those with less than 11 years’ experience are required to complete the 138-hour Rutgers transportation rules and best practices course.

The Assembly passed Bucco’s bill in June, and voted today to adopt Senate amendments that set deadlines for course completion. The legislation now goes to the governor for his consideration.

Pennacchio/Turner Innocence Commission to Aid NJ’s Wrongfully-Convicted Passes Senate 

Frank L. Cahill
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Pennacchio/Turner Innocence Commission to Aid NJ’s Wrongfully-Convicted Passes Senate 

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Senate has passed bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio and Senator Shirley Turner to create a commission that would develop reforms and create a pathway to justice for those who have been wrongfully convicted in New Jersey.

“Our innocence commission would address a wide variety of issues facing people who have been wrongfully convicted – from reintegrating back into society, to getting the compensation they deserve,” Senator Pennacchio explained. “The commission would also consider establishing a permanent panel that could review cases when our system fails.

“Innocent people should not spend a single day behind bars, but it happens all the time – even in New Jersey. I hope that our colleagues in the Assembly will listen to the stories we have shed light on throughout our journey to pass this bill. These people shouldn’t have to wait a moment longer for justice,” Pennacchio added.

Senators Pennacchio and Turner introduced S-406 more than a year ago, following  reports of wrongful conviction cases in New Jersey. The legislators have worked diligently with advocates and exonerated prisoners to highlight the need for their commission.

“Being forced to plead guilty, knowing you’re innocent, is one of the worst things that could happen to an innocent person,” Rodney Roberts, a New Jersey exoneree whose story has been highlighted by the Innocence Project, said. “But it happens more than you think. Then to find out later that, despite being exonerated, your guilty plea will keep you from getting compensation, is like being punished a second time for a crime you didn’t commit.”

Nationwide, more than 2,000 wrongfully convicted persons have been exonerated since 1989, according to the National Registry on Exonerations. However, the Registry estimates that there are tens of thousands of false convictions annually, with many more piling up over time.

“Nothing can return the time lost with loved ones or milestones missed when a wrongful conviction steals years from an innocent person’s life,” Senator Turner (D-15). “While we often consider the impact this has on an individual’s personal life, we need to remember it also stifles their potential lifetime earnings as well as threatening the financial security of themselves and their families. This legislation will help us identify how to prevent wrongful convictions and create an avenue to better address wrongful convictions when they do occur. We must do everything in our power to ensure those who have been wrongfully convicted are given justice, restorations, and the tools they need to successfully reenter society.”

About Pennacchio/Turner’s S-406: “The New Jersey Innocence Study and Review Commission”

The “New Jersey Innocence Study and Review Commission,” as established by S-406, would review all aspects of criminal cases involving wrongful conviction in New Jersey and recommend reforms to reduce the likelihood of wrongful conviction occurring in the future.

Under S-406, the commission must consider a specific recommendation for establishing a permanent panel before which a person who believes they have been the victim of a wrongful conviction could request a review of their own conviction, including those that are currently incarcerated.

The commission’s responsibilities would also include:

  • Identifying the main causes of wrongful conviction and studying existing research on these causes;
  • Recommending best practices to appropriate constituencies
  • Examining the existing system of restitution to compensate wrongfully convicted persons
  • Studying successful programs that assist with reintegration back into society following release

S-406 has received the support of a number of advocates, including Lesley Risinger, the founder and director of The Last Resort Exoneration Project at Seton Hall Law School, which provides pro-bono legal and investigative services to wrongfully convicted people in New Jersey.

“Conviction of the innocent is an abject failure of any criminal justice system,” Risinger said. “Creating the New Jersey Innocence Study and Review Commission would be an important step in addressing this problem. We believe in a collaborative approach that should take into account the views of all who have participated in the exoneration of the innocent in New Jersey, as well as the views and experiences of the exonerated innocent themselves. If this bill passes, we will of course stand ready to assist the commission as they move forward to study the ways in which our criminal justice system fails the innocent, both before and after conviction, and we look forward to providing our insights on measures to alleviate this problem.”

The legislation has also received the support of the NAACP New Jersey State Conference.

“The New Jersey State Conference of the NAACP is in full support of Senate Bill 406 which looks to create the New Jersey Innocence Study and Review Commission,” Safeer Z. Quraishi, administrative director of the NJ NAACP, said. “It is obvious that nobody should feel the devastating effects of incarceration if they did not commit the crime. We are looking forward to seeing the recommendations made by the Commission to reduce wrongful incarceration in New Jersey.”

“Rodney Roberts languished in prison for 17 years. AJ Nash was there for 10. This is a travesty of the highest magnitude. Policy changes like bail reform are meaningless, if we aren’t solving the systemic issues that allow innocent people to stay locked up,” Pennacchio added. “Our search for justice should know no bounds. Now that our bill has passed the Senate, I hope that the Assembly will take up the measure immediately. If this isn’t a time sensitive piece of legislation, I don’t know what is.”

Wendy Walker Named General Manager of Chewsi

Frank L. Cahill
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Wendy Walker Named General Manager of Chewsi
Wendy Walker

PARSIPPANY — Chewsi, a first-of-its-kind service that connects patients directly with dentists for significant savings on dental care, is proud to announce that Wendy Walker has been named general manager, overseeing the New Jersey and Connecticut markets. In her new role, Wendy will be responsible for launching Chewsi in bothstates.

Chewsi will allow patients with or without insurance to realize significant savings on dental procedures, including cosmetic, without paying premiums or monthly fees. Patients will be able to find a Chewsi dentist, know costs before their dental appointment, and pay their dentist all through the Chewsi free app.

Wendy is the former business capabilities architect at Delta Dental of New Jersey, Inc., where she implemented and ensured that strategic corporate goals, and business and technology decisions were met and aligned. Throughout her 26 years as an employee of the Parsippany-based dental benefits provider, Wendy first started as a customer service agent and has held a variety of Operations positions, including customer service supervisor, claims administrator, and director of System Quality Assurance and Business Analysts.

Chewsi™ is a free app that helps patients find the right dental services from the right dentist at the right price.  It’s simple – download the Chewsi app, find a conveniently located Chewsi dentist, and call the dentist to make an appointment.  Patients experience significant savings, and pay right in the dentist’s office through the Chewsi app.

For more information about Chewsi click here.

Wise Animal Rescue hosts Holiday Party for Volunteers

Frank L. Cahill
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Wise Animal Rescue hosts Holiday Party for Volunteers

PARSIPPANY — Wise Animal Rescue held its First Annual Holiday Party, thanking all of their volunteers and fosters for a very successful year in making a difference in the life of a rescued pet.

Parsippany resident Guest DJ’s Guru and Shil kept the crowd busy all evening. They are available for all types of parties. (For more information, click here.)

Roxbury High School graduate and current County College of Morris student Madison Pisani performed with her unbelievable voice. Madison is an extremely talented 18 year old singer and songwriter. (For more information visit Madison on Facebook by clicking here.)

The wonderful evening was held at the Lake Parsippany Clubhouse.

Wise Animal Rescue is dedicated to rescuing dogs of all ages and breeds from places where they are no longer wanted or are not being properly cared for. By partnering with veterinary practices that support their work, they are able to save dogs’ lives and restore them back to health.

Central to their mission is to ensure that all dogs are spayed/neutered, up-to-date on shots, and microchipped. Prior to adoption, all of the dogs are placed into responsible loving foster homes to be socialized and trained rather than put in a shelter environment.

Wise Animal Rescue is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of dogs of all breeds. They are comprised of a network of caring people with a grassroots approach working towards a world where no dog is neglected, abused, or homeless.

Dedication – Wise Animal Rescue is run by a team of dedicated volunteers who see this as more than just a volunteer opportunity, it’s our life. They take pride in every aspect of what they do and know that, with hard work and dedication, they can make a difference.Education – While saving homeless animals is their primary mission, they also believe education is at the core of everything they do. They strive to educate members of the community on the importance of adoption, spay/neuter, and vaccination. By doing so, they hope to encourage others to get involved and to also take care of their pets at the highest level possible.

Integrity – The reason Wise Animal Rescue was founded was because they care. They put their rescue work first, whether that means driving in the middle of the night to rescue a dog in need or responding to their future and past adopters promptly to answer any questions they may have. They support our adopters, foster, volunteers, and, most importantly, the dogs to the best of their ability and take pride in what they do.

For more information on adopting, fostering or becoming involved with Wise Animal Rescue, click here.

IHOP’s Holiday Pancakes Are As Green As The Grinch

Frank L. Cahill
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IHOP’s Holiday Pancakes Are As Green As The Grinch
Grinch’s Green Pancakes: two Grinch-green buttermilk pancakes topped with sweet cream cheese icing, red candy hearts, and green whipped cream

PARSIPPANY — The Grinch’s tagline may be “It’s never too early to be annoyed by Christmas,” but we all know how that story ends. Your heart doesn’t have to grow three sizes to get excited about IHOP’s new Grinch-inspired menu.

In celebration of the new Dr. Seuss film, the breakfast joint rolled out a special menu, and it’s staying in restaurants through the end of the year. As you might guess, there’s plenty of green involved, plus a new omelette and French toast stack that both sound fit for an indulgent holiday meal.

Here’s what you can expect from the IHOPxGrinch menu:

  • Grinch’s Green Pancakes: two Grinch-green buttermilk pancakes topped with sweet cream cheese icing, red candy hearts, and green whipped cream
  • Minty Who Hot Chocolate:hot chocolate with mint syrup topped with creamy green whipped cream and red candy hearts
  • Who-Roast Beast Omelette: an omelette filled with shredded beef, Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, sautéed jalapeños, onions, and golden hash browns topped with BBQ sauce, more shredded cheese, and a Serrano pepper; it comes with THREE buttermilk pancakes, too
  • Whoville Holiday Cheesecake French Toast: two King’s Hawaiian rolls, French-toasted, and layered with creamy cheesecake filling, raspberry topping, and whipped cream.

There are special additions to the kids menu, too: A Mt. Crumpit Kids Combo, which comes with a Grinch green buttermilk pancakes topped with cream cheese icing, red candy hearts, and green whipped cream, plus one scrambled egg, one bacon strip, and one sausage link. Also, a Young Grinch Minty Who Hot Chocolate, which is just a kid-sized version of the drink.

Parents, if you bring your kids to IHOP between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. during the promotion, kids 12 and under can get a free entrée from the kids menu with the purchase of any adult entrée!

For an at-home The Grinch treat, try making our festive Kranky Cupcakes! They’re perfect for a holiday movie night or to bring to a Christmas party.

Click here to have your meal delivered by Doordash.

IHOP is located at 792 Route 46, Arlington Shopping Center.

Kiwanis prepares Breakfast with Santa at Parsippany Child Day Care Center

Frank L. Cahill
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Kiwanis prepares Breakfast with Santa at Parsippany Child Day Care Center

PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, December 15 the children at Parsippany Child Day Care Center enjoyed a breakfast and a visit from Santa sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

Kiwanis members Daniella DeLuca, Joe Jannarone, Jr., Bob Young, Casey Parikh volunteered and prepared the breakfast which consisted of scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, pancakes, bagels and muffins.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany invites Santa and cooks up a breakfast and supplies gifts for the children every year.

Santa elves Kendall Amato, Morgan Amato, Daniella Strano, Brieanna Lomelo and Isabella Lomelo helped Santa giving out gifts to the children.

Kiwanis is a worldwide service organization in over 96 nations. The major emphasis is serving the children of the world.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany picks service projects that need attention. The Club is all local people that volunteer time and talents to make our community a better place to live. We, like you, are busy with making a living, church, family, and many other activities.

The children received wooden puzzles, coloring books and crayons from Santa as well as a goodie bag.

The Parsippany Child Day Care Center was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1968. They opened with 20 children and expanded to meet the growing need for quality child care in our community. In 1980, they moved into a new building specifically designed for child care and owned by the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. During the 1990s, the building was renovated with two additions to the building, which made room for infants and young toddlers. They are governed by a Board of Trustees, who are volunteers from our community. Earlier this year, Parsippany Child Day Care Center, celebrated their 50th Anniversary.

The facility was designed specifically for the care of children, and was built with HUD funding. The center has a total of seven classrooms, a large multipurpose room, a full service kitchen, offices, adult and children’s lavatories.

The center is comprised of a diverse population of families and staff. They come from a variety of backgrounds and speak multiple languages from all over the globe.

A very unique relationship exists between the center and Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. Parsippany built the original building and owns it. A self-renewing contract allows for joint responsibility for repairs and building upkeep. Primarily the center maintains the building and the town maintains the property. They also have strong ties with civic organizations within Parsippany, including but not limited to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills and the Sons of Italy.

Parsippany Child Day Care Center is located at 300 Baldwin Road. For more information, click here.

 

Santa arrives at Lake Parsippany Firehouse

Frank L. Cahill
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Santa arrives at Lake Parsippany Firehouse

PARSIPPANY — Santa arrived at Lake Parsippany firehouse on Saturday, December 15 to greet the children, take pictures, find out their wish list and give gifts.

Angela Maliakal embarks on undergraduate career at Tufts University

Frank L. Cahill
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Angela Maliakal embarks on undergraduate career at Tufts University

PARSIPPANY — Angela Maliakal, from Parsippany, has joined more than 1,500 undergraduate students from around the world as they begin their academic careers at Tufts University, located in Medford/Somerville, Massachusetts. She is a 2018 graduate of The Kent Place School

In all, only 14.6 percent of a record breaking 21,501 applicants were admitted to the university, the second-lowest acceptance rate in university history.

The university’s Class of 2022 is the most diverse class ever, the beneficiary of the largest commitment of financial aid in university history, and a trailblazer in gender parity among engineering students – all while maintaining Tufts’ status as one of the most selective universities in the country.

Thirty-seven percent of first-year U.S. undergraduates identify as students of color, a Tufts record. The 1,544-member undergraduate class received $25.8 million in need-based grants, a new mark for financial aid commitment by the university. And the incoming engineering class nearly reached gender parity, with 49 percent of students identifying as women.

“We often talk about creating an intentional community,” said Karen Richardson, dean of admissions and enrollment management at the Class of 2022’s matriculation ceremony. “With the Class of 2022, we have put together a group of learners who will contribute not only academically but also to our community’s social fabric.”

Tufts University, located on campuses in Boston, Medford/Somerville and Grafton, Massachusetts, and in Talloires, France, is recognized among the premier research universities in the United States. Tufts enjoys a global reputation for academic excellence and for the preparation of students as leaders in a wide range of professions. A growing number of innovative teaching and research initiatives span all Tufts campuses, and collaboration among the faculty and students in the undergraduate, graduate and professional programs across the university’s schools is widely encouraged.

The Kent Place School is a highly selective all-girls independent college-preparatory day school serving students in preschool through twelfth grade in Summit.

Letter to the editor: Parsippany will vote on Highlands Regional Master Plan

Letters to the Editor
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parsippany focusDear Editor:

As one of the most densely populated municipalities in the New Jersey Highlands, Parsippany-Troy Hills, with its abundant commercial corridors along Routes 46 and 10 and elsewhere, has not disproved the trend that the towns with the most development have the highest taxes. The ratables chase that has led much of its land use decisions has resulted in congestion, damaged lake ecologies, a stressed water supply, flooding, high taxes and other quality of life challenges.

Parsippany-Troy Hills has a chance right now to begin a process of transformation, to channel its redevelopment opportunities towards a coordinated vision that is smart, which enhances rather than depletes its water supply, reduces flooding and that re-establishes a sense of place and community. Rather than developers dictating the needs of the community, the community will invite compatible development to fulfil its needs according to a unified, thoughtful vision. This will be supported by outside grant funding and planning expertise that will shine a bright light on the process, forcing the kind of transparency that prevents back room deals and favors to developers.

On Tuesday,  December 18 the Parsippany Town Council will vote on whether or not to get back on track with Conformance to the Highlands Regional Master Plan, the process that will enable this positive transformation. Come hear about Conformance, what it really means for Parsippany and what it has done for other Highlands municipalities that have opted in to Conformance. Please urge the council to pass a resolution to request Parsippany’s participation in the conformance process.

This is a great opportunity to make a difference in the future of Parsippany. Please be a part of it.

Ken Dolsky

Please help the family of Nicole Coleman

Frank L. Cahill
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Please help the family of Nicole Coleman

PARSIPPANY — Nicole Coleman a 42-year-old mother of three and a professional child care specialist. She made a career out of her passion, dedicated to her craft; she sought out families with medically fragile (twins, triplets) managing the unexpected challenges that come with multiple children at the same time. The accolades that the families left after each job on care.com are a few stories that clearly describe her patience and natural kindness.

Aside from her love of children comes her infatuation, with butterflies. Butterflies have been a part of Nicole’s entire life. Nicole enjoyed anything with a butterfly on it. She went as far to have a tattoo of one on her arm and enjoyed the story of the butterfly.

Starting in mid-October Nicole began experiencing headaches. Her hair was very long, and she thought maybe it was time to donate her hair, so she did, 11” was donated to be used for a wig for cancer patients going through chemotherapy and radiation treatments. That was not enough to relieve the pain, so she went to the doctor and was given migraine strength medication and was sent home. The side effects of the medicine left her unable to carry out a typical daily schedule. Nicole was brought to the hospital a couple of weeks later, underwent a cat scan and shortly after, Nicole was diagnosed with butterfly gliomas, a form of glioblastoma, the same brain cancer that took the life of Edward Kennedy and John McCain. When the doctor explained to the family what was happening, the doctor described the tumor as if it was in a cocoon and now it’s spreading its wings like a butterfly. He recommended surgery which she never was able to recover and passed on Thanksgiving Day.

The celebration of life gathering was a great testament to my sister’s love for everyone and butterflies. The void Nicole’s departure leaves is tremendous, her brother Bradley set up a fundraising campaign. The campaign was able to collect over $20,000.00 from friends and family, but more donation is needed to help her struggling family.

The story has been covered in local publications like Parsippany Focus and TAPinto Roxbury. Given the local angle, holiday spirit, and touching story, your readers would be interested in this story. To see the campaign and story, click here.

Senator Joe Pennacchio Collects Thousands of Toys for Kids in Need

Frank L. Cahill
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Senator Joe Pennacchio Collects Thousands of Toys for Kids in Need

MORRIS COUNTY — State Senator Joe Pennacchio’s office collected over a thousand toys for needy children during the past month.  This is an annual event that the Senator runs to help out families in need.

“I am thankful to all those that donated and to the participating schools in my district for helping to make this year’s toy drive a huge success,” Pennachio said.

If you require or know of a needy child who needs toys this holiday season, please contact Senator Pennacchio’s district office no later than Wednesday, December 19.  You can reach the office by calling (973) 227-4012.

Mayor Michael Soriano Urges Legislature to Reject Redistricting Proposal

Frank L. Cahill
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Mayor Michael Soriano Urges Legislature to Reject Redistricting Proposal

PARSIPPANY — Mayor Michael Soriano has called on the legislature to oppose the legislative redistricting proposal being voted upon this Monday. Soriano released the following statement:

“I am in opposition to the redistricting plan currently in front of the legislature. In our increasingly polarized political climate, our leaders must fight against the corrosive effect of gerrymandering on our democracy, not allow partisan map-making to flourish in yet another state.

I am a proud Democrat, and I have been proud to be a part of the great strides our party has made in this state over the past several years. However, the implementation of a structural advantage that favors one party over another will serve only to delegitimize all future progress our party makes.

The current redistricting process in our state is a model for the rest of the country to follow. From Wisconsin to North Carolina, the Republican Party has drawn themselves gerrymandered maps that strain the concept of democracy. The Democratic Party must be better. We must strive to win on the strength of our ideas, not the strength of our cartography. I implore the legislature to vote this plan down and keep the current redistricting process in place.”

Conover and Magahan promoted to Sergeant; Patrolman Esterlin Estevez sworn in

Frank L. Cahill
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Conover and Magahan promoted to Sergeant; Patrolman Esterlin Estevez sworn in

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano promoted Patrolman Jeffrey Magahan and Patrolman Brian Conover to the rank of Sergeant on Friday, December 14.

Sergeant Conover was promoted in the Council Chambers while Sergeant Magahan was sworn-in via video conference as he is currently deployed with the United States Air Force in Southeast Asia.

Sergeant Jeffrey Magahan was sworn-in via video conference as he is currently deployed with the United States Air Force in Southeast Asia

Sergeant Jeffrey Magahan is a married father of three children who has worked with Parsippany for over eleven years. He was previously employed by the Department of Defense as a police and correctional officer. He has been a member of the United States Air Force as a Security Forces Member for 21 years. He previously served in the United States Army. While serving in the military, Sergeant Magahan earned the Achievement Medal with Valor, the Commendation Medal with Two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Meritorious Service Medal.

As a Parsippany Police Officer, Sergeant Magahan has earned 1 Command Citation, a Life Saving Award and 2 Meritorious Service Medals. Sergeant Magahan is a certified 9-1-1 Operator, a Field Training Officer and Crash Investigator. He attended DeVry University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Networking Communications and earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Ocean County College. He also graduated from the Essex County Police Academy in July of 2008. When asked what Sergeant Magahan likes the most about being a police officer in Parsippany, he replied, “Putting on the uniform everyday is an honor. The diversity that Parsippany brings makes it a pleasure to come to work.” Sergeant Magahan should be returning to Parsippany in March 2019.

Sergeant Brian Conover is married father of two children and has been working with Parsippany for over eleven years.

Sergeant Conover taking the Oath of Office while his wife and two daughters look on

Sergeant Conover previously served as a Security Forces Member with the United States Air Force for four years before coming to Parsippany. He has received 2 Command Citations and 1 Unit Commendation. Sergeant Conover has received numerous specializations as he is a 9-1-1 Certified Operator, a Crash Investigator, a prior Rifle Team Member, Public Information Officer, School Resource Officer, Field Training Officer and is involved with our Community Policing Program. He was previously assigned to the Patrol Division for 7 years and has been in the Support Services Division for 4 years, he will remain in Support Services as the Division Sergeant. Sergeant Conover went to Saint Elizabeth’s College where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Justice Studies. He graduated from the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy in 2007 as Class #70. When asked what Sergeant Conover likes the most about being a police officer in Parsippany, he replied, “Being able to serve the diverse population of Parsippany and interacting with them at numerous community events helps me realize how much of a positive effect we have on our community.”

Sergeant Conover signing the Oath of Office

Also sworn in was Patrolman Esterlin Estevez to the Parsippany Police Department. He served in the Marines for four years and received his Bachelor’s Degree in International Criminal Justice from John Jay College. Patrolman Estevez’s eagerness about becoming a police officer came from wanting to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather. Patrolman will enter the 92nd Basic Police Academy Class in January 2019.

Patrolman Esterlin Estevez taking the oath of office while his wife, Natalie holds the bible
Patrolman Esterlin Estevez signing the Oath of Office
Esterlin and Natalie Estevez with Mayor Michael Soriano and Police Chief Andrew Miller

Friends of Lake Hiawatha celebrate “Winterfest”

Frank L. Cahill
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Friends of Lake Hiawatha celebrate “Winterfest”

PARSIPPANY — On Friday, December 7, The Friends of Lake Hiawatha sponsored their annual Winterfest at the gazebo on North Beverwyck Road.

Attendance and enthusiasm was high as the children waited for Santa Claus, who came in on a fire truck. Hot chocolate and cookies were served as the children (and parents) waited on line to tell Santa what they want for Christmas.

Two bicycles were raffled off and won by two very excited children.

Throughout the evening, the crowd was entertained by the caroling by Girl Scout Troops 96623 from Knollwood School, 97446 from Lake Hiawatha School and 97442 from Eastlake School.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano joined the festivities and his attendance throughout the evening was very much appreciated by all. A very special thanks to the Lake Hiawatha Fire Department and the Parsippany Traffic Department who help keep everyone safe.

The Friends of Lake Hiawatha is a non-profit organization that began in 2011. The original intent of the organization was to decorate every lamppost in town with snowflakes and wreaths and have barrels for spring and fall flowers. With the generous donations of the majority of the store owners along Beverwyck Road, they were able to accomplish their goals.

The organization did not stop there. They initiated the scarecrow contest which takes place every October and the Winterfest both with the help of the Parsippany Girl Scouts.

The present organization’s members are Antoinette Simmons, Carol Greco and John Pascarella, owner of the Hiawatha Dairy. However, the Winterfest would not be successful without the help of two very important non-official members, Fred Simmons and Carolyn Piccolo. And of course a very big thanks to our Santa Claus.

Wells to graduate at CSC’s Winter Commencement

Frank L. Cahill
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Wells to graduate at CSC’s Winter Commencement

PARSIPPANY — Christopher Wells is a candidate to graduate with a masters degree during Chadron State College Winter commencement Friday, December 14. More than 70 candidates are scheduled to receive their graduate degrees at 2:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Dr. Robert Stac, Professor of Mathematics, will speak at the graduate ceremony.

Chadron State College, which was founded in 1911, is the only four-year, regionally-accredited college in the western half of Nebraska. As a public institution with its roots in teacher education, Chadron State takes pride in its accessibility and affordability.

Nearly 3,000 undergraduate, graduate and online students currently attend Chadron State and its curriculum has grown to offer programs and courses in more than 50 majors and endorsements and eight master’s degree programs.

Parsippany Teachers Raise over $1,400 in Food Pantry Donations

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Teachers Raise over $1,400 in Food Pantry Donations

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany school teachers have once again united to lend a hand to local residents in need during this time of holiday joy.   Educators in all 14 Parsippany-Troy Hills public schools have reached into their pockets to contribute to the annual food bank drive since late September, hoping to make this a plentiful and festive season for more Parsippany residents.

Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano and Food Pantry Director Michele Picone accepted the $1,414.47 donation at Town Hall.  This marks the sixth consecutive year that the PTHEA has spearheaded the drive, for a total of nearly $10,000.

The collection comes at a time when teachers in town are facing difficult financial times, having worked without a contract for the last six months.  Nonetheless, says PTHEA President Joe Kyle, “We recognize our responsibility as a collective member of this community to help our neighbors, our parents, and our students who may be in need of assistance.”   Kyle went on to say, “Our members have been very generous over the years and we are proud to have built a lasting relationship with the Parsippany community.  We wish that we could have raised as much as in previous years, but unfortunately we are all dealing with difficult financial times and we don’t see it improving any time soon.”

The Parsippany Emergency Food Pantry collects and distributes food items for residents in need on an ongoing basis. Donations may be made in person or by calling (973) 263-7163.

 

Parsippany Historical Society Installs New Officers and Trustees

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Historical Society Installs New Officers and Trustees

PARSIPPANY — At their Annual Holiday Party, Parsippany Historical Society elected and installed their 2019 officers.

The 2019 Officers and Trustees are: President Randy Tortorello; Vice President Robert Peluso; Treasurer Nancy Brighton; Secretary Jessica Soit; Archivist Sandi Kron: Trustees: Mary Purzycki, Carol Tiesi, Barbara Seamen.

The purposes of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Historical and Preservation Society are to:

  • Encourage an appreciation for, and an understanding of, the history of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills by holding meetings at which historical lectures, entertainments, discussions, and other programs are scheduled; by marking historical sites, roads, trails, and building; by publishing work concerned with historical research; by working with school administrators and teachers to encourage the study of local history, and by engaging in other appropriate activities;
  • to seek out, to collect, and to collate material which may help to reveal and illustrate the history of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills in terms of exploration, settlement, and development;
  • to cooperate with public and private agencies in providing for the preservation and for the display of historic sites and materials;
  • to conduct or encourage archaeological investigations in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills;
  • to hold title to real and personal property of historical interest of significance that the Society may acquire;
  • to hold title to moneys or instruments acquired for the purpose of furthering and/or maintaining the Society’s properties.
    History of the Society

The Society was incorporated on June 8, 1998. Since that time the Society has worked toward the mission of preserving and interpreting the Township’s history and historic structures. The Society works with the Township to open the Township’s historic sites, including the Parsippany Museum, also known as the Bolwsby / DeGelleke House, the Smith / Baldwin House, Old Littleton Schoolhouse and the Forge Pond and Dam property. The Society also sponsors programs that highlight the history of the Township and are held at one of the Townships historic properties. The Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Membership in the Society is open to any person, organization, and corporation interested in the preservation of the historical heritage of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. Meetings are held the third Wednesday of every month except for the months of July and August. In addition to attending meetings, members are expected to volunteer to support open houses and various events highlighting the history of Parsippany-Troy Hills scheduled throughout the year.

Membership categories include Single $ 15.00; Family $ 25.00; Senior $ 10.00; Sponsor $ 50.00 and Advocate $100.00.

Please consider joining the Society – Click here for membership form.

For more information click here.

Morris County 4-H: Issues Highest Honors to Three Outstanding Teens

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County 4-H: Issues Highest Honors to Three Outstanding Teens

MORRIS COUNTY — Three high school students from Chester, Randolph, and Wharton recently earned the Morris County 4-H Club’s highest honors for their dedication to the 4-H program, outstanding leadership skills, and positive work in their communities.

Kristen Briney of Chester was named 4-Her of the Year. She is a member of the Dogs R Us 4-H dog-training club and Teen Council 4-H leadership club.

The 2018 National Leadership Award recipients were Elizabeth Kaufmann of Wharton and Johanna Pipoli of Randolph.

Elizabeth is a member of the Puppy Tails 4-H Seeing Eye puppy raising club and the Morris Marksmen 4-H shooting sports club.  Johanna is a member of several 4-H clubs including Be The Change community service club, Buckanears small animal club, Dogs R Us, Teen Council, and Wing Nuts poultry club.

These high honors were among some 400 awards presented to members of 18 clubs whose members range in age from kindergarten to high school.

The 18 clubs are: 4-Footed Leaders, Buckanears, Dogs R Us, Feathered Friends, Freedom Fields, Furry Friends, Just Kid N Around, Puppy Tails, Wing Nuts, Mad Stem Scientists, Radical Racers, Claybusters, Morris Marksmen, Knit Wits, Shutterbugs, Be the Change, Kids 4 Kindness and Teen Council. Download the list here.

The youngest 4-H members, in kindergarten through third grade were recognized for their achievements with the Cloverbud Shooting Star Award. Youth in grades 4 and up were eligible to receive the Clover Award in recognition of their work over the past year.

Club members who pushed their abilities and skills further were awarded the Achievement Award and Personal Development Award. Leaders of 4-H clubs also honored the teens who served as positive role models to younger members, went above and beyond to support their 4-H clubs, and took on a leadership role with the Teen Leadership Award.

Each year, 4-H members work to develop their skills in a certain area of their club’s focus. They document relevant financial records, time commitments, and project results in a record book. Kids in grades K-3 receive special recognition for their diligent work in these books while older members are eligible to receive Best in Show for outstanding record keeping.  Over 30 members received Best in Show medallions and all participants received judges’ feedback and award recognition for their work.

4H youths show off their stuff at a recent Morris County 4-H Fair

Morris County 4-H Clubs are made possible by the dedicated and caring adult volunteers who serve as club leaders. Each year these leaders are awarded for their years of service to 4-H. Over 60 adult volunteers were honored for their various years of service to the Morris County 4-H program. These caring adult volunteers help youth members grow their skills, knowledge, and abilities each year.

For more information on Morris County 4-H clubs, please contact the office at (973)-285-8301 or email 4hmorris@njaes.rutgers.edu or visit the website.

NJ Transit Board approves purchase of new rail cars

Frank L. Cahill
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NJ Transit Board approves purchase of new rail cars

NEWARK — The NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors today approved a contract with Bombardier for 113 new rail cars, which includes the first self-propelled multilevel rail cars in the United States.

“This historic purchase is the perfect example of how NJ TRANSIT is reclaiming its position as a national leader in transportation,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Kevin Corbett. “The new self-propelled multilevel cars break new ground in railroad technology and we’re proud that NJ TRANSIT is leading the way. With this investment, we’ll be able to retire the oldest rail cars in our fleet, while increasing reliability, efficiency and customer comfort.”

This order for 113 Multilevel III Passenger Vehicles, the largest order for rail cars in recent years by NJ TRANSIT, will allow the agency to replace the oldest rail cars in its fleet.

The cost for the contract will not exceed $670 million plus contingencies.

The purchase, which consists of 58 “power cars” with electric propulsion capability and 55 non-powered trailer cars, was approved as part of the Fiscal Year 2018 budget. A Request for Proposals (RFP) went out in October 2017.

The Multilevel III Power Cars are Electric Multiple Units (EMU’s), a multiple-unit train consisting of self-propelled cars using electricity as the motive power. An EMU requires no separate locomotive, as electric traction motors are incorporated within one or a number of the vehicles on the train.

The vehicles are scheduled to begin testing in the third quarter of 2022 and are expected to enter revenue service during the second quarter of 2023.

The Multilevel III Passenger Vehicles will replace the aging Arrow III EMUs, which are over 40 years old. The new cars increase seating capacity from 1,380 seats on a 12-car Arrow III train to 1,552 seats on a new 12-car Multilevel III train. The new cars will feature roomier two-by-two seating as opposed to the three-person bench seats that are currently on the Arrow III cars. Other customer amenities include USB charging ports for customers and new, onboard information displays.

The base order is for 58 multilevel power cars, 33 cab cars, 16 trailer cars and 6 trailer cars with restrooms. There are also options for an additional 636 cars to replace the remaining single-level cars and accommodate future growth

This purchase is allowing NJ TRANSIT to take a step toward the goal of having the overall average age of all rail vehicles under 30 years old, making for a more modern fleet that supports enhanced comfort, reliability and efficiency.

The benefits of the Multilevel III Passenger Vehicles include reduced operating costs, higher acceleration and an 11 percent increase in seating capacity. The Multilevels also have a higher Mean Distance Between Failure (MDBF); 370,575 miles, compared to 40,046 miles for the Arrow IIIs based on October 2018 data.

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Parsippany Focus is a digital news organization that provides news coverage of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1989 by Frank Cahill, who currently owns and operates the organization. Parsippany Focus covers local news, events, and community issues, and their content is primarily distributed through their website and social media channels. The organization has been serving as a trusted source of news and information for the Parsippany-Troy Hills community for over 30 years.

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