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Scholarship Program Seeking Top Youth Volunteers

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Jacob Van was Honored in 2020 for: raising money to help two people pay for cancer treatments, and to buy Christmas presents for people living on the streets. COVID-19 response: raising money to buy pizzas for the staff at nursing homes in his area

MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey’s young changemakers have one month left to apply for scholarships, grants, and more through The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards.

Through November 10, Prudential Financial and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) are calling on middle level and high school volunteers to apply for local, state, and national recognition through this prestigious program.

New Jersey students in grades 5-12 are eligible for the 2021 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards if they have made meaningful contributions to their communities through volunteering within the past 12 months — virtually or otherwise. The application is available by clicking here.

The top middle level and high school volunteer from each state and the District of Columbia will be named State Honorees in February. They will receive $1,000 scholarships, engraved silver medallions, and an invitation to the program’s national recognition events. In May, the program will name America’s top 10 youth volunteers of 2021. Those National Honorees will receive additional $5,000 scholarships, gold medallions, crystal trophies for their nominating schools or organizations, and $5,000 Prudential grants for nonprofit charitable organizations of their choice.

Local-level honorees in each state will receive awards ranging from bronze medallions to certificates. Qualifying local honorees also receive President’s Volunteer Service Awards.

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards was created in 1995 to recognize the exemplary volunteer work of middle level and high school students. Since then, awards have been granted to more than 140,000 middle and high school students across the country at the local, state, and national levels.

For complete details on the 2021 program and the stories of New Jersey’s top youth volunteers from years past click here.

Parsippany Applebee’s Offer Guests Scary Good October Specials: Kids Eat Free

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Applebee's is located at 1057 Route 46, Troy Hills Shopping Center

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Applebee’s is bewitching guests young and old with kids eat free Halloween special for costumed children on Saturday, October 31 as well as Spooky Sips cocktails for adults all month long*.

Families who dine-in at Applebee’s, 1057 Route 46,  in costume on Halloween will receive up to two free kids’ meals with each adult entrée purchase. Children 12 years and under can choose from a variety of entrées from the Applebee’s Kids’ Menu, including cheesy quesadillas and crunchy chicken tenders. Children can also select either milk, chocolate milk, lemonade, orange juice, apple juice, or soda to drink.

For adults who want to get in on the Halloween spirit, everyone’s favorite, scary, holiday cocktails are back for a limited time. Now through Halloween, Applebee’s is serving up Spooky Sips in a signature Mucho glass for only $5.00**

Cure cravings with the Tipsy Zombie – an eye-popping, tropical blue cocktail – made with Bacardi Superior, a float of Midori, and topped with a gummy brain. Or guests can sink their teeth into the Dracula’s Juice – part margarita and part daiquiri, this cocktail is a shapeshifter just like Dracula! This frozen libation is made with Patrón Tequila, Bacardi Superior, wildberry, and margarita mix. Plus, Spooky Sips are available for To Go at participating locations.

The Halloween specials are also available at Applebee’s locations owned and operated by Doherty Enterprises including Brick, Bridgewater, Butler, Clark, Clifton, Edison, Flemington, Garfield, Hackensack, Hackettstown, Hillsborough, Howell, Jersey City, Jersey Gardens, Kearny, Lacey, Linden, Manahawkin, Manalapan, Manchester, Middletown, Milltown, Mt. Olive, Newark, Newton, North Bergen, Ocean, Paramus, Phillipsburg, Piscataway, Rockaway, Tinton Falls, Totowa, Union and Wall.

*This Kids Eat Free special will be available at Applebee’s locations owned and operated by Doherty Enterprises on Saturday, October 31 only.

*This promotion consists of two free kids’ meals with the purchase of one adult entrée.

*Valid through dine-in only.

**Must be 21+. Void where prohibited. Tax & gratuity excluded. Spooky Sips are available for dine-in only except where carry-out alcohol is permitted by law. Participation may vary.

Parsippany Community Update October 8, 2020

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — This morning, the Township raised the Italian Flag at Town Hall to celebrate Italian-American Heritage Month. I was proud to be joined by the Sons of Italy, including new President John Lonero, in recognition of one of our most thriving communities.

Four Morris County Correction Officers and One Morris County Sheriff’s Officer Plead Guilty to Drug-Related Offenses

By
Frank L. Cahill
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parsippany police
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Acting Chief of Investigations Chris Kimker, and Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon announce the culmination of a narcotics investigation that resulted in the arrest and guilty pleas of four Morris County Correction Officers and one Morris County Sheriff’s Officer for drug-related offenses.

Today’s guilty pleas arose from a multi-month investigation that was conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit (Narcotics Task Force) after receiving a Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers Program tip forwarded by Sheriff Gannon about illegal drug activity involving the use by a Morris County Sheriff’s Officer.

The investigation identified four Morris County Correction Officers employed in the Bureau of Corrections who were engaged in an ongoing conspiracy to purchase cocaine for their own personal use.

Two of these correction officers were also engaged in an ongoing conspiracy to distribute cocaine to their fellow officers. Additionally, this investigation identified a Morris County Sheriff’s Officer within the Bureau of Law Enforcement who was engaged in the ongoing conspiracy to purchase oxycodone prescription pills for his personal use.

Two of the officers were also charged with obstructing the administration of law or other governmental function for utilizing a county law enforcement database for an unauthorized purpose in connection to their drug conspiracy.

On October 7, 2020, the following defendants appeared before the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.Cr. and pled guilty to the below-referenced charges:

Dominick Andico, 33: One Count of Third Degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 & N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a; One Count of Third Degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 & N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5 and One Count of Disorderly Person Obstructing the Administration of Law or Other Governmental Function in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1.

Albert Wyman IV, 36: One Count of Third Degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 & N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a  and One Count of Disorderly Person Obstructing the Administration of Law or Other Governmental Function in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1.

Robert Busold, 27: One Count of Third Degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 & N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a and One Count of Third Degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 & N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5.

Brian T. Rzucidlo, 35: One Count of Third Degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 & N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a.

Nicholas Ricciotti, 31: One Count of Third Degree Conspiracy to Possess Oxycodone (prescription medication) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 & N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a.

As part of the plea agreements, all defendants agreed to immediately resign from their positions as law enforcement officers, forfeiting their current public employment and will be disqualified from holding any future position in public employment.

In addition, the plea agreements call for a term of probation with mandatory drug treatment. Dominick Andico, Albert Wyman, Robert Busold, and Brian Rzucidlo were all employed by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and assigned as correction officers at the Morris County Correctional Facility.

Nicholas Ricciotti, a former Morris County correction officer, was now a Morris County Sheriff’s Officer assigned to the Bureau of Law Enforcement.

Prosecutor Knapp stated: “All law enforcement officers must be held to a high standard of conduct. The illicit drug use of these individuals must be dealt with swiftly and effectively. There has been no evidence of distribution other than for their personal use amongst each other. Nevertheless, they are all being terminated immediately and shall forfeit any and all possibility of future public employment.

We thank Sheriff Gannon for his unswerving cooperation throughout this investigation.” Sheriff Gannon stated: “After discovering this information through our Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers program, I immediately forwarded it to the County Prosecutor for investigation.

One of the silver linings to this sad episode, frankly, is how effectively the Crime Stoppers reporting system works. It proves that nobody – even Corrections and Sheriff’s Officers – are above the law. I trust that the people of Morris County won’t allow the criminal actions of a few bad apples to cast a shadow over the other 322 honest, moral, and hardworking staff at the Sheriff’s Office.

I am proud of my team and we are stronger today for rooting out and removing those who would bring dishonor to our organization and our county.”

Prosecutor Knapp would like to thank the units and agencies that participated in this investigation including the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit (Narcotics Task Force), Mt. Arlington Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Internal Affairs Unit, and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Professional Standards Unit, Intelligence Unit, and High-Tech Crimes Unit.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – October 6, 2020

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – October 6, 2020.

Click here to view a copy of the agenda.

Mayor Soriano Proclaims October “Breast Cancer Awareness Month”

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano

PARSIPPANY — At the Tuesday, October 6, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting, Mayor Michael A. Soriano read a proclamation for National Breast Care Awareness Month. October is National Breast Care Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign to increase awareness of this disease, and while we have seen an increase in mammography rates and a decline in deaths there is more we can do. which is an annual campaign to increase awareness of this disease and while we have seen an increase in mammography rates and a decline in deaths there is more we can do.

Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi Addresses Receipt of Non-Residence, Duplicate and Deceased Voters’ Ballots

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Clerk’s Office has received reports of voters receiving duplicate ballots, ballots for voters who have moved away, and ballots for voters who are deceased.

This East Hanover resident received three additional ballots, two deceased residents and one who married years ago and moved away

Governor Murphy’s Executive Order #177 mandated that the 2020 New Jersey General Election be conducted by universal mail-in ballots. Consequently, County Clerks in the State were required to automatically mail ballots to all voters who are listed as “active” in the State Voter Registration System.

Although County Clerk must rely on voter information contained in the State Voter Registration system they do not have lawful jurisdiction to update or manage the state system. It is maintained by the State, Board of Elections offices, and, in some counties, the Superintendent of Elections.

If you receive a ballot that is addressed to someone who does not live at your address, is deceased, or if you receive a duplicate ballot, please mark it “return to sender” and place it back in your mailbox for the U.S. Postal Service to return to the county election office.

You can also contact the board of elections at (973) 285-6715 with any issues.

Lost / Potentially Stolen Puppy – Found and Reunited with Owner

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — This 10 to 15 pound, female Yorkie went missing from her owner’s vehicle while at Wawa on New Road on Tuesday, October 6, at approximately 10:45 a.m.

If you have any information on this dog or her whereabouts, please call Parsippany Animal Control at (973) 263-7083.

Surveillance footage was checked, but the vehicle was out of range due to its location.

Please share!

Council Members Commend Colleagues for Bipartisan Resolution

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson

PARSIPPANY — Councilwomen Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson commended their colleagues on the Township Council for unanimously passing resolution R2020-180, urging Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) to take action following recent failures resulting from Tropical Storm Isaias or forego any proposed utility rate increase.

With Parsippany consistently left out in the dark with no electricity following inclement weather, it has become readily apparent that some serious thinking needs to be done regarding upgrades for our aging electrical infrastructure. First Energy, the parent company of JCP&L, continues to take in millions of dollars in profit every year yet consistently fails to make any meaningful upgrades to prevent long-term outages like the ones faced in the aftermath of this most recent storm. To make things worse, JCP&L is asking for permission from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) to raise utility rates while our residents are struggling to make ends meet. Resolution R2020-180 calls on the NJBPU to reject any utility rate increase this year unless a serious commitment is made by JCP&L to prevent a situation like this from occurring in the future.

Councilwoman Janice McCarthy said, “None of our residents should have to wait weeks or even days to have their power restored, especially during a serious pandemic that is forcing many of us to stay at home. Our resolution will make it clear that residents have had enough dealing with these issues storm after storm and the need for JCP&L to do what is right.” Councilwoman Emily Peterson added, “The frequency and consistency with which Parsippany experiences power outages is not limited to major storms or weather events. It’s important that in calm winds, we take the opportunity to investigate and repair the issues that are too often the cause of outages when a major event happens. We are asking for those infrastructure analyses to be done and system improvement to be made.”

Prosecutor Announces the Hiring of New Detectives and Assistant Prosecutors

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Acting Chief Chris Kimker, Detective Matthew Belcastro, Detective Raquelin Perea, Assistant Prosecutor Alexander Bennett, Assistant Prosecutor Jessica Marshall, and Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante, and Acting Chief of Investigations Chris Kimker announce the hiring of Detective Matthew G. Belcastro, Assistant Prosecutor Alexander Bennett, Assistant Prosecutor Jessica L. Marshall, and Detective Raquelin Perea.

On Monday, October 5, Prosecutor Knapp, Acting Chief Kimker, Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.Cr., and Honorable Philip J. Maenza, J.S.C. administered the oaths of office to the new Assistant Prosecutors for whom they had served as law clerks. Prosecutor Knapp administered the oaths of office to the two detectives.

Detective Belcastro will be assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts & Administration Division. He was previously a Patrol Officer for the Chatham Borough Police Department. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Kutztown University and a Master of Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Detective Belcastro has earned several professional law enforcement certifications and awards. He also holds administrative positions in volunteer organizations. AP Bennett will be assigned to the Megan’s Law Unit. He graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law and received his Bachelor’s Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He worked as a Law Clerk for the Honorable Philip J. Maenza, J.S.C., Morris/Sussex Vicinage, and as a Student Attorney for the Criminal Justice Clinic at Seton Hall University School of Law, Center for Social Justice. He also interned for the Union County Prosecutor’s Office. AP Marshall will be assigned to the Appellate Unit. She graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law, received her Bachelor’s Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and her Associate’s Degree from the County College of Morris. Prior to serving as a Law Clerk for the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.Cr., Superior Court, Criminal Division, Morris/Sussex Vicinage, she worked as a Student Attorney for the Criminal Justice Clinic at Seton Hall University School of Law and a Legal Intern for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

Detective Perea will be assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts & Administration Division. She began her law enforcement career as a Community Service Officer at Rutgers Department of Public Safety and has also served as a Senior Security Officer and Dispatcher at New Jersey Institute of Technology, Police Officer for the Newark Police Department, and as a Sheriff’s Officer for the Essex County Sheriff’s Office.

She has completed credits towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice at Rutgers University and is a member of several professional law enforcement associations. Prosecutor Knapp welcomed them to the department. Prosecutor Knapp said, “Each of these individuals brings a depth of experience to the MCPO and should be great additions to our staff. We are fortunate to have such talented attorneys and law enforcement professionals join our ranks. They are outstanding additions.”

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp, Detective Matthew Belcastro, and Acting Chief Chris Kimker

Updated Quarantine Advisory Issued for Individuals Traveling to New Jersey

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Governor Phil Murphy. Photo by Rich Hundley, Trentonian

MORRIS COUNTY – Governor Phil Murphy advised individuals traveling to New Jersey from states or territories with significant community spread of COVID-19 to quarantine for a 14-day period from the time of the last contact within the identified state or territory. The updated advisory includes the addition of New Mexico, bringing the total to 35 states and territories. The travel advisory applies to any person arriving from a state or territory with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents or a state with a 10 percent or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average.

As of Tuesday, October 6, there are currently 35 states and territories that meet the criteria stated above: Alabama; Alaska; Arkansas; Colorado; Delaware; Florida; Georgia; Guam; Iowa; Idaho; Indiana; Illinois; Kansas; Kentucky; Louisiana; Minnesota; Missouri; Mississippi; Montana; North Carolina; North Dakota; Nebraska; New Mexico; Nevada; Oklahoma; Puerto Rico; Rhode Island; South Carolina; South Dakota; Tennessee; Texas; Utah; Wisconsin; West Virginia; and Wyoming. 
“We know that COVID-19 is a virus of opportunity, and if we let our guard down and grow complacent, we open a window of opportunity for future outbreaks,” said Governor Murphy. “It remains critically important for anyone arriving in New Jersey from these 35 states and territories to get tested for COVID-19 and self-quarantine for 14 days.”

Travelers and those residents who are returning from impacted states should self-quarantine at their home, hotel, or other temporary lodgings. Individuals should leave the place of self-quarantine only to seek medical care/treatment or to obtain food and other essential items.

It is expected that individuals will follow the public health advisory to self-quarantine. The list of states will be updated on a rolling basis and is accessible here.
 

New Jerseyans Come Together on Organ Donor Enrollment Day

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Emma Navarro

PARSIPPANY — On October 8, NJ Sharing Network and its many healthcare partners and volunteers throughout the state will work together to register as many organ and tissue donors as possible in celebration of Organ Donor Enrollment Day. The non-profit, federally designated organ procurement organization has set a goal of amassing at least 2,020 new donor registrations on 2020 Organ Donor Enrollment Day. The 2,020 goal helps create a positive spin on the number ‘2020’ as opposed to the negative ‘2020’ references seen virtually everywhere due to the challenges faced this year.

Currently, there are nearly 110,000 Americans – nearly 4,000 of whom live in New Jersey – waiting for a life-saving transplant.

“Organ Donor Enrollment Day is about taking action and inspiring others to learn more about how they can save lives through organ and tissue donation,” said Joseph S. Roth, president, and chief executive officer of NJ Sharing Network. “One organ and tissue donor can save eight lives and restore health to over 75 people. I am confident that everyone’s efforts on Organ Donor Enrollment Day will go a long way toward bringing hope to those currently waiting for a transplant.”

In New Jersey, one person dies every three days waiting for an organ transplant. However, the generosity of those in the Garden State is providing hope for the future. New Jersey’s organ and tissue donor registrations continue to rise thanks to strong community education and outreach efforts as well as simplified ways to register as organ and tissue donors are also helping to save more lives. It is now easier than ever for New Jerseyans to register in any of the following options:

  • Online by clicking here.
  • Through the iPhone Health App
  • In-person at your local Motor Vehicle Agency

Another key component of Organ Donor Enrollment Day is encouraging those who register to have a conversation with their family and friends about their decision to donate.

“Donation provides comfort and healing to so many families after losing a loved one. It is so important to talk to your family and share your decision about organ donation so your gift is honored,” said Carolyn M. Welsh, vice president, and chief clinical officer, NJ Sharing Network.

Organ Donor Enrollment Day is deeply personal for NJ Sharing Network’s partners, advocates, and volunteers who are motivated to save and enhance the lives of those in need. Jayla Sorenson of Toms River is just one example. Jayla has a kidney disease that limits her ability to filter and clean her blood. The vivacious 8-year-old loves to dance, play outside, and hug and kiss her family members. But the clock is ticking towards a more critical stage in Jayla’s condition that will eventually involve a pediatric kidney transplant. Jayla and her family actively participate in events and programs to promote organ and tissue donation, including Organ Donor Enrollment Day and NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life with Team Jayla’s Journey.

“It’s all about raising awareness and helping others in need because someday we will be the ones in need,” said James Sorenson, Jayla’s father.

Typically, Organ Donor Enrollment Day features local and regional in-person activities and community events to raise awareness that will not be possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While NJ Sharing Network’s clinical and laboratory team members have continued their around-the-clock efforts to focus on saving and enhancing lives, the organization has developed creative ways to promote its mission virtually in online efforts throughout the pandemic through its robust social media channels, on its website and through targeted e-mails and mailings to its wide circle of supporters. NJ Sharing Network will be providing social media tools that supporters can use. Supporters will also be asked to share their stories about how organ and tissue donation has improved their lives or why they registered as organ donors. 

About NJ Sharing Network
Dedicated to saving lives through organ and tissue donation, NJ Sharing Network is the non-profit organization responsible for the recovery and placement of donated organs and tissue for the nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents waiting for a life-saving transplant. With headquarters in New Providence, NJ, the organization, selected by NJBiz as one of the state’s “Best Places to Work” for the third consecutive year, is also part of the national recovery system, serving the nearly 110,000 people on the national waiting list. To learn more, get involved and register as an organ and tissue donor click here.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – September 21, 2020

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board Meeting – September 21, 2020

Click here to download a copy of the agenda.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board – September 16, 2020

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board – September 16, 2020.

Click here to download the agenda.

Broadway Actress, Grace Field, joins Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Nicolas Limanov, Vice President, Gordon Meth, NJ Kiwanis District Governor, Laura Wohland, Incoming President Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and Grace Field. Photo by Rafael Ortiz Photography

PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany presented Grace Field with a plaque displaying a microphone in appreciation of her support to Kiwanis.  In addition to providing the entertainment at this year’s New Jersey Kiwanis District Virtual Convention, she has donated her time to fundraisers at Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.  Grace is the newest member of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, joining at their annual installation dinner where she performed for the attendees.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Vice President pins the official Kiwanis Pin on Grace. Photo by Rafael Ortiz Photography
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Laura Wohland presents Grace with the official “Certificate of Membership” welcoming Grace to the Kiwanis family. Photo by Rafael Ortiz Photography

Grace has been featured on NBC’s the Today Show performing with Hugh Jackman and has been in multiple musical theatre productions across the globe.  Ms. Field has sung at theatres including Broadway’s New Amsterdam Theatre, Broadway’s New Victory Theatre, the Barclay Center, The Public Theatre, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and Off Broadway’s New World Stages.  Grace has also had the privilege to work with Broadway’s Alan Menken, Stephen Schwartz, Rebecca Luker, Seth Rudetsky, Anthony Rapp, and others. Ms. Field has also sung with Multi Tony Award Winner Audra McDonald, Cynthia Elviro, Shoshana Bean, and Hollywood walk of fame’s Billy Porter.  Field made her New York Public Theatre debut in Alan Menken’s adaptation of Disney’s HERCULES.  She most recently performed on Broadway in “Disney on Broadway 25th Anniversary Special” with Whoopi Goldberg at the New Amsterdam Theatre! She is a proud member of the Grammy award-nominated and now Tony Award-Winning group Broadway Inspirational Voices in New York City.  Field also is a soloist at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Not only does Grace perform professionally on the stage, but also is a professional pianist, artist, and model.

Field has a huge heart for charity and helping the world through the arts, and has founded Dare to Dream Art Charity which encourages people to donate to local or global charities through the gift of art.

Welcome to the Kiwanis Family Grace!

Letter to the Editor: Vote for BOE candidate, John Titus

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Letters to the Editor
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Dear Editor:

I am deeply encouraged by the nomination of BOE candidate, John Titus.  I have known John professionally and personally over the last 18 years and do not believe there is a better candidate for the role.

John is dedicated to serving the public as an elementary school, youth volleyball coach, and advisor.  The most recent example I can provide would be with COVID.  With a halt to all face-to-face learning, John was tasked with remote learning for his classroom and he pivoted with ease.  Instead of just providing a syllabus to his students, he conducted full lesson plans and was online for additional hours in case they needed additional help.  For volleyball, he proactively created a virtual learning series featuring top professionals from across the country.  The series discussed various mental health topics, game strategy, skill development, and coaching tactics.

John also has a very big heart and is constantly thinking of others’ health and safety.  As his assistant coach at Caldwell University, John always ensured his players were placed in the right situations and as well as helped them create better environments around them.

If selected, I confidently know John will not only excel at his role on the Board of Education but he will be someone who the town members can confidently know their children’s education is in the right hands.

Please join me in voting for John Titus and the rest of his slate for BOE; Aisha Mahmood and Nilesh Bagdai.  456 on your ballot!

Erin Leban
Parsippany

Letter to the Editor: Vote for Tim Berrios for Parsippany Board of Ed

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Letters to the Editor
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Dear Editor:

Hello Parsippany citizens! Hopefully, by now you’ve received your mail-in ballot. You will see that my father, Tim Berrios is running for re-election for the Parsippany Troy Hills Board of Education (he is #3).

Back in 2013, I was PHS’s BOE student rep. My dad came with me to every meeting for two years. His experience attending these meetings motivated him to become an agent of change run for the BOE in November 2014. He has held this position for six years.

Since being on the board, my father has advocated for taxpayers, teachers, and -most importantly- the students. He has attended a variety of events throughout the years hosted by all schools. You have probably seen him at PHS and PHHS football games, NHS inductions, concerts, elementary school presentations, plays, and graduations. My father beams with pride at these events. He loves seeing Parsippany students doing what they love.

In the current environment, my father continuously tries to problem solve. Teaching in the middle of a pandemic is something that must be taken seriously. My father continues to ask questions, and strive for answers. He hears the feedback from PTHSD staff, Parsippany families, and the educators in his own family. When the district put out their return plan, my father was the first person to suggest holding in-person BOE meetings, since students and teachers would be reporting in buildings.

Do I have a bias? Yes, we share the same last name. I hold that name with pride. My father has the district’s best interests and heart and truly cares about making a difference. He does not use this as an opportunity for political gain. He’s just a person who cares. If you’d like to hear more about his values or what his thoughts are, please feel free to reach out to me so I can put you in touch with him! No matter what, VOTE!
Best,
Kristina Berrios

October is National Fire Prevention Month

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Rainbow Lakes Fire Department

PARSIPPANY — Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company will not hold their annual “open house” this year due to COVID 19 safety concerns for neighborhood children, adults, along with the members of the Department.

This year’s national fire prevention theme is “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen” as cooking is one the leading cause of home fires. You can do a lot to prevent kitchen fires. Although you can’t remove every possible source of a kitchen fire, you can minimize fire risks by removing hazards and maintaining your kitchen. Follow these prevention tips to keep your kitchen safe:

  • Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen, especially if you’re cooking in grease or if the oven is at very high heat. Turn off the burner or oven if you need to leave the house or get caught up in a phone call.
  • Keep appliances serviced, clean, and in good repair. Dump the crumb tray and clean out the toaster crumbs periodically from the toaster or toaster oven. Wipe out the microwave.
  • Clean the oven (check for mouse nests especially if you haven’t used your oven recently).
  • Unplug electric appliances when not in use. Toaster ovens, mixers, coffee makers, and so on, continue to draw electricity even when they’re not turned on. So if the wiring is old or faulty, or if the thermostat overheats, a fire could break out.
  • Install a smoke detector near, but not in the kitchen. You don’t want the small amount of smoke or steam that cooking sometimes generates to constantly trigger the alarm — but you do want it to sense an actual kitchen fire.
  • Don’t use metal in the microwave. The sparks can turn into fire or can seriously damage your microwave.
  • Don’t overfill pots or pans with oil or grease. The hot oil or grease, like in this figure, can splatter and cause a fire.   Grease buildup is flammable. A clean stove is a fire-free stove.
  • Always roll up long sleeves and tie back long hair when cooking. You don’t need your beautiful flowing silk sleeves trailing in the spaghetti sauce, and you certainly don’t need to catch on fire!
  • Keep dish towels, pot holders, and paper towels away from the stove. You might have left a burner on by accident, and built-up heat could ignite combustibles left near or on the stove or oven.

RLVFC is also encouraging families to develop a fire safety plan including what do in case of a fire and take fire prevention steps to prevent fires. Children need to learn what to do when they hear a smoke alarm beeping and hear this frequently from their parents.   Families need to share with children the importance of making a fire escape map of their home Below is a rhyme to help your children (and adults also) remember what to do when you hear the smoke alarm beep.  Say each line and have them repeat after you.

The house is on fire  –   Don’t hide, Go outside!
The alarm is beeping  –    Don’t hide, Go outside!
The smoke is getting higher   –    Don’t hide, Go outside!
Wake up if you’re sleeping and hear the alarm    –     Don’t hide, Go outside!

 

Letter to the Editor: 39% Increase Scheduled for Water and Sewer Utilities

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Letters to the Editor
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parsippany focusDear Editor:

On Tuesday, October 6, Parsippany’s Town Council will conduct a public hearing and a final vote for passage of Ordinances 2020:28 and 2020:29, which will increase water and sewer rates by 39%, effective immediately upon passage. I believe that the ordinances, as written, require improvements in several areas before the council considers them for adoption. These areas include reducing the proposed rates to just what is necessary, transparency, and clarifying wording that deals with the rate effective date.

First, and most importantly, I believe that a 39% rate increase is excessive, based on the revenue that needs to be raised. To illustrate this point, $3.4 million must be withdrawn from the sewer utility fund in order to make ends meet in the 2020 sewer budget. However, if a 39% rate increase is enacted, sewer fee revenues will increase by $5.6 million annually. This $5.6 million is enough to cover the $3.4 million that is currently being withdrawn from the fund balance, with $2 million left over. When the 39% rate increase was originally proposed by the utility consultant, at least two members of the council objected to the size of the increase. Well, their initial reaction was warranted and is supported by the numbers. The council should scale down the size of the rate increase to an amount that is just sufficient to cover the fund balance withdrawals, plus a little extra to cover contingencies.

Regarding transparency, how can the public comment on the rate increases when the amount of increase is not even specified on the ordinance summaries that appear in the council meeting agenda? The ordinance summaries should clearly state that there will be a 39% increase across the board for both utilities. A rate increase of that magnitude will surely generate a lot more feedback than a standard 2% increase. In addition, the full text of the ordinances mentions several reasons why the utility rate increases are necessary, but perhaps the biggest reason is conspicuously absent. There is no mention of the almost $18 million that has been transferred from the utility budgets to the general budget over the last ten years. I think that the public would also like to know that the proposed 39% rate increases do nothing to eliminate these transfers.

Lastly, I think that the wording which says that the ordinance will take place immediately upon the final passage needs to be more precise. Specifically, the wording needs to describe what will happen when part of the quarterly bill is for usage at the old rate and part at the new rate. If the entire bill will be charged retroactively at the new rate, the ordinance should make that clear.

Before the council members cast their final vote on these ordinances, I ask that they consider the suggestions listed above, and amend the ordinances accordingly.

Bob Venezia
Parsippany

Council Meeting Tuesday, October 6; Residents Can Join Virtually

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani, Council President Michael dePierro, Councilwoman Emily Peterson, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Councilwoman Janice McCarthy

PARSIPPANY — Please be advised, the Township Council of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is scheduled for  Tuesday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. Formal action may or not be taken, and any other action reasonably related thereto may also be taken. Click here to download a copy of the proposed agenda.

Due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic Council Meetings will be held via web conferencing.  This program will allow the public to listen to the meeting and to participate during the public portion session only.

Please be advised that in order for a member of the public to participate they must fill out the registration information using their real name and address, anyone not using their real name and address will not be allowed to speak during the public portion.

To join the meeting click here.

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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 37 years.

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