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Job Guidance/Assistance to County Residents Laid Off by Sam’s Club

MORRIS COUNTY — Assistance is available to Morris County residents who lost their jobs this week due to the abrupt closing of the Sam’s Club through county social services and re-employment agencies, according to the Morris County Board of Freeholders.

Hundreds of state residents lost their jobs when Sam’s Clubs closed stores in Mount Olive, Linden and West Windsor, as part of a nationwide move by the company that affected thousands of employees nationwide.

“This is a very difficult time for some of our residents who had no expectation of being put out of work so suddenly, and who are obviously reeling from the store closings,’’ said Freeholder Director Doug Cabana. “Our county agencies are available to help those employees to find new jobs, receive needed re-training, and get the personal assistance they may need as they seek new employment.’’

For assistance during this difficult time, visit:

  • Morris-Sussex-Warren Employment and Training Services: (Click here) or call 800-870-3478 or (973) 285-6880 for an appointment;
  • Additional job seeker services are available through the NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development at the Morris County One-Stop Career Center located at 13 Emery Avenue, Randolph, NJ or click here.
  • Morris County Office of Temporary Assistance, for Medicaid or the SNAP (food stamps) program: https://hs.morriscountynj.gov/financial/ or call (973) 326-7882
  • N.J. Dept. of Labor, to file an unemployment claim click here.
  • Mental Health Services are available for persons dealing with severe stress due to their job loss through the county’s Disaster Response Counseling program. Call (973) 285-6852 or (973) 285-6863.

Other Resources

Lake Parsippany School K-Kids participate in “Valentines for Veterans”

PARSIPPANY — The thirty eight Kiwanis K-Kids at Lake Parsippany Elementary School participated in “Valentines for Vets.”

The children gathered and packaged candy and wrote poems on handcrafted Valentines Cards that will be sent to soldiers in Syria and Africa.

The nine and ten year old students prepared a total of 56 bags of treats with heartfelt letters for soldiers.

Steven Baird will be shipping the packages to the Vets just in time for Valentines Day.

The program is to thank the Veteran for his or her service, sacrifice and commitment to our country and citizens.

Valentines for Vets began in 1989 when the late newspaper columnist, Ann Landers, encouraged her readers to create special valentines for Veterans in care facilities throughout Canada and the United States. Every year, Ann Landers’ special “Valentines for Vets” column asked her readers to remember their nations’ Veterans by making them personal hand-crafted valentines.

The students packaged 56 bags to be sent to the soliders
The students and teachers pose with Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill and Steven Baird. Mr. Baird will be shipping out the treats to the soldiers.
The K-Kids are preparing “Valentines for Veterans”
Isaac Bielinski showing off the package of candy that will be shipped to the Veterans for Valentines
Josie Pellecchia was cutting out a Valentines Day Card to be sent to the Veterans for Valentines
Nick Ferreira showing off the package of candy that will be shipped to the Veterans for Valentines
Teacher Cavan Londergan working with the K-Kids preparing the Valentine Day Cards
Teachers Donna Martino and Cavan Londergan was working with the K-Kids on the project, “Valentines for Vets”

K-Kids is a service club for students in elementary school. It’s led by elementary students and teaches the value of helping others by taking part in community service projects.

Lake Parsippany K-Kids is sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

Sheriff Gannon Appointed to Greystone Board of Trustees

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon has been appointed by Governor Chris Christie to the Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital Board of Trustees, as part of a complete overhaul of the state hospital’s review board.

“I take this appointment very seriously and plan to work very hard on behalf of the patients from Morris County and across North Jersey who have ended up at Greystone due to severe mental illness,’’ said Sheriff Gannon.

“Those patients – who are our family members and friends and neighbors and co-workers — count on the staff and administration of this hospital to provide the best care possible and in a most secure setting.  I look forward to working with the other trustees to make sure they get the care they deserve.’’

Also appointed by the Governor to the Greystone Board of Trustees are:

  • Michele Brown of Mendham, who was Gov. Christie’s Appointments Counsel and headed the state Economic Development Authority;
  • Wayne Hasenbalg of Randolph, who is CEO of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority and former Deputy Chief of Staff to Gov. Christie;
  • Morris Township Committeeman Bruce Sisler;
  • Attorney Louis Modugno, a partner in the McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter law firm;
  • Jim DiGiulio of Chatham, who is Chief Counsel to Governor Christie.
  • Peter Simon of Jersey City; Chief of Staff to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Greystone, which is located in Parsippany, houses more than 500 patients in a relatively new state facility that replaced an ancient hospital campus that was constructed in the 1800s and early 1900s. There have been reports of complaints in recent months by mental health advocates and some board members about a lack of patient safety in the hospital.

Governor Chris Christie in December announced a contract with New Solutions, a health-consulting firm in New Brunswick, to perform an assessment of of the situation at Greystone and all state psychiatric hospitals.

Patti Campbell retires after 22 years

PARSIPPANY — Patti Campbell an employee in Parsippany Tax Department retired after 22 faithful years of service to the residents of Parsippany-Troy Hills. She retired on Monday, January 8. Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano walks her out of town hall on her last day.

Patti will be missed by everyone.

Barberio arrested for Marijuana

BOONTON TOWNSHIP — James R. Barberio, 22, Lake Hiawatha, was arrested and charged with 2C:35-10A(4) possession of less than 50 grams of Marijuana, 2C:36-2 use or possession with intent to use and 39:3:33 display of unclear or indistinct license plates on Friday, December 22 at 10:24 p.m. by Detective Christopher Chicoris of the Boonton Township Police Department. Barberio was driving a Silver 2016 Subaru WRX.

Detective Chicoris states “I exited my patrol car and approached the vehicle on the passenger side. When I walked up to the vehicle I noticed the passenger side window was down and I detected a strong odor of marijuana. I then made contact with the driver (James Barberio) and observed visible smoke inside the vehicle. The odor of marijuana was very strong at this time. I asked James to provide me with his license registration and proof of insurance. While James was gathering his documents I observed several empty cigar wrapper packaging in his vehicle (cigar wrappers are used to make marijuana cigarettes). James provided me with his documents and I requested him to step out of the vehicle.”

“I continued to detect the odor of marijuana on James clothing and searched him for any further contraband, which was negative. I informed James that I detected the odor of marijuana inside his vehicle and was awaiting a back up unit prior to searching his vehicle. James informed me that he had a small amount, specifically a half gram, of marijuana inside his vehicle along with a “grinder” (used to break up or grind marijuana to be smoked in a pipe or marijuana cigarette). James further informed me that he had smoked the marijuana inside his vehicle. Moments later, Sergeant Cacciabeve arrived on scene. I briefed Cacciabeve as to my findings and Informed him that I would be searching the vehicle,” he stated.

James R. Barberio

“I then placed James in handcuffs and informed him that he was under arrest for the possession of marijuana and paraphernalia. He was then transported back to police headquarters for processing. There was no contraband inside the rear seat of my vehicle before or after transport,” said Chicoris.

Barberio was advised of his mandatory court date at the Boonton Township Municipal Court on January 10, 2018 at 1:30 p.m.

Boonton Township Municipal Court prosecutor is Doug Cabana. Cabana is the former Parsippany-Troy Hills Municipal Prosecutor, appointed by former Mayor James R. Barberio, until December 31, 2017 when the new administration did not reappoint Cabana.

Former Council President Louis Valori said “We need to start putting safeguards in place. Because again we know the opioid problem that occurs in this town, in the state and in the nation. Our town is a great town, we have 7,500 students. The last thing we want in our town is a legal dispensary for recreational use for marijuana. I think that is the last thing we want in our town. I just challenge the Council and the new incoming Mayor to put that into consideration and pass an ordinance and not allow this to happen in our town.”

Councilman Michael dePierro stated, “I disagree with making marijuana legal in the state of New Jersey, it’s an entrance drug, that our kids don’t need to have access to. I am opposed to it. However, if we do pass an ordinance, in the town and the state makes it legal, I do not want the taxpayers of Parsippany to burden the legal costs in fighting the State of New Jersey.”

“Many many years ago our family was impacted by drug use, and we lost one of our relatives, so if we do have an ordinance I would vote to definitely not have marijuana in our state, our town, stated Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani.

Boonton Township Police Chief Paul C. Fortunato informed Parsippany Focus, the case was heard at Boonton Township Municipal Court on Wednesday, January 10.

Parsippany Focus reached out to Boonton Township Court Administrator & Violations Clerk, Joan Egan, for additional information on the outcome of the case, or to find out if the case was sent to a different Court that would not have a conflict. She did not return our calls as of the time this story was published. Court Office Hours are only Monday and Wednesday 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Kindergarten registration will be held in March

PARSIPPANY — Kindergarten registration will be held at your local neighborhood elementary school (see listing below) on Monday, March 5 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Tuesday, March 6  from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

If you don’t know which school is your local elementary school call (973) 263-7180 Ext 9 – 7228).

Registration packets may be found on the district website by clicking here, or picked up in the Main Office of your neighborhood school beginning Monday, February 5. Completed registration papers should be brought with the parent at the time of registration.

KINDERGARTEN ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

A child whose fifth birthday falls on or before October 1, 2018 may be admitted to kindergarten in September of that year.

You will need to bring:

A copy of your child’s immunizations. (See below)
An original birth certificate, or passport, to establish proof of age. A lease, a deed, or a current tax bill from your residence.  (An Affidavit of Residency from the Superintendent of Schools if the residence where you are living is in someone else’s name.) Two of the following additional documents: Utility, telephone bill, or bank statement.

Children entering kindergarten must provide evidence of having the following immunizations: (Students who have not met all immunization requirements shall not be permitted to attend the first day of school.)

DPT – a minimum of 4 doses of DPT – one dose must have been administered on or after the fourth birthday.
Polio – a minimum of 3 doses of polio vaccine provided at least one dose is given on or after the fourth birthday. Measles – 2 doses given after the first birthday (preferably MMR).
Rubella – at least one dose (preferably MMR) given on or after the first birthday.
Mumps – at least one dose (preferably MMR) given on or after the first birthday.
Hepatitis B – 3 doses prior to entering kindergarten.
Varicella – 1 dose after first birthday.
Mantoux – PPD tuberculin – For children born in some Countries outside the USA (Check with School Nurse)

A physical examination, done by your family physician, must be presented to your school prior to attendance in September.

If you have any questions please call Karen Timmerman in the Superintendent’s Office (973) 263-7200 ext. 7298.

Preschool Registration for 2017-2018  – Registration opens March 1, 2017

A complete list of Parsippany Elementary Schools:

EASTLAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

INTERVALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

KNOLLWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

LAKE PARSIPPANY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

LITTLETON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

MT. TABOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

NORTHVAIL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

10 Eileen Court, Parsippany, NJ 07054

Phone (973) 263-7070

ROCKAWAY MEADOW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

TROY HILLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

509 S. Beverwyck Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054

Phone (973) 428-7588

New Membership Option Offered at Lakeland Hills Y

MOUNTAIN LAKES — Afraid of a full year commitment? The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is offering a two-month Intro Membership for first time, new members only.

Pay upfront for just two consecutive months and enjoy all the privileges of a full member. Participate in all fitness classes, use the pool, and workout in the Health & Fitness Center. You can start anytime.

Call for more information call (973) 334-2820.

Congratulations to the 2017 scholarship recipients from the County Prosecutors Association

At their monthly meeting yesterday, the County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey (CPANJ) presented scholarship awards to four recipients of the Oscar W. Rittenhouse, Andrew K. Ruotolo, Jr., Harris Y. Cotton and John H. Stamler Memorial Scholarships. The CPANJ, a nonprofit corporation, annually awards scholarships to law students, college and graduate students. Each scholarship is a one-year grant in the amount of up to $3,500.00 paid directly to the recipient. Scholarship recipients from previous years are ineligible.

The awards were presented at the Hughes Justice Complex in Trenton by CPANJ President, Fredric M. Knapp and Mercer County Prosecutor, Angelo J. Onofri. The presentation ceremony was attended by Attorney General, Christopher S. Porrino and all New Jersey County Prosecutors.

To be eligible for the Oscar W. Rittenhouse Memorial scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission into a law school. The application must have an interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.

The recipient of the 2017 Oscar W. Rittenhouse Memorial scholarship is, Emma Marie Coffey of Chatham. Emma is currently finishing her undergraduate studies at Boston College and plans to attend law school there, following her graduation. In the past, she was a Victim Witness Advocate for the Cambridge District Court, and Emma currently interns at the Manhattan District Attorney’s office. Ms. Coffey was unable to attend the ceremony due to a prior commitment in Boston.

To be eligible for the Andrew K. Ruotolo, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school or a graduate school.  The applicant must exhibit an interest in, and commitment to, enhancing the rights and well-being of children through child advocacy programs.  The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.

The recipient of the 2017 Andrew K. Ruotolo Jr. Memorial Scholarship is, Michael W. Lembo of Ridgewood. Michael is a Police Sergeant with the Ridgewood Police Department, and is a member of the School of Management at Marist College. He also works with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office as a member of their Computer Crimes Task Force. In 2012, Michael was named “Police Officer of the Year” by the Ridgewood Knights of Columbus. Officer Lembo attended the ceremony.

To be eligible for the Harris Y. Cotton Memorial scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school.  The applicant must have an interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor with an emphasis in Domestic Violence or Hate Crime prosecutions.  The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.

The recipient of the 2017 Harris Y. Cotton Memorial scholarship is, Gianna Marie DeLizza of Voorhees. Gianna Marie is studying law at Rutgers Law School-Camden. In her time at Rutgers, she has served as the Student Director of the Rutgers Domestic Violence Project and is presently a Student Attorney for the Rutgers Domestic Violence Clinic. She also worked in the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office as a Trial Unit Intern. Ms. DeLizza was unable to attend due to a work obligation.

To be eligible for the John H. Stamler Memorial scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident and sworn law enforcement officer seeking educational advancement on a college or graduate level to improve his or her effectiveness as a law enforcement officer. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.

The recipient of the 2017 John H. Stamler Memorial scholarship is Claire G. Odierna of Norwood. Claire Odierna has been a Detective at the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office since 2003. She is furthering her education, studying for her Master’s Degree in Public Administration at Fairleigh Dickinson University. In the past few years, Detective Odierna was selected as the lone representative from New Jersey to attend a Sex Offender Investigation training course, run by the United States Marshal Service. She also organized and executed Operation Evade, which resulted in the arrest of 19 convicted sex offenders in Hudson County. Detective Odierna attended the ceremony and was presented with her award by Hudson County Prosecutor, Esther Suarez, and they can be seen in the photo below.

Congratulations to the 2017 scholarship recipients from the County Prosecutors Association of the State of New Jersey.

Preschool Tuition Funding Available to Parsippany Families

MORRISTOWN — Do you know a family that needs help to afford the cost of preschool? Morristown non-profit Preschool Advantage is accepting applications for tuition assistance for children to attend its partner preschools for the school year beginning in September 2018.  Families demonstrating commitment to education and financial need can apply for funding for a half day of preschool. Children must be 3-or 4-years old by October 1, 2018 to be considered for funding for the school year beginning in September 2018. Applications received by February 28, 2018 will be given priority in funding decisions.

Preschool Advantage partners with 24 preschools in Morris and Somerset counties to provide a quality preschool education for families who could otherwise not afford it.  Every year, there are many local families who cannot afford tuition for preschool because of financial circumstances. Preschool Advantage partners with three carefully selected preschools in Parsippany – All Saints Academy, Children’s Circle at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, and Hearts and Hands Preschool. Preschool Advantage seeks to provide opportunities for a lifetime of learning that will create a better world for its students, their families, and the community.

There are thousands of working families in New Jersey who cannot afford to provide their children with an early education.  While there are federally funded programs to cover the cost of preschool for families living below the poverty line, working families making over that level have limited options.  The high cost of living in Morris and Somerset Counties leaves many families unable to afford a quality early education for their children.  Preschool Advantage is committed to addressing this need, one child at a time, and relies completely on private funding.

Preschool Advantage has provided families with financial assistance for high quality preschool education since 1995, with more than 1,300 tuitions paid throughout the organization’s history.  In 2017, 75 children were assisted by Preschool Advantage.  The application form and the list of partner schools can be found by clicking here, or call (973) 532-2501 to request a copy to be mailed.

Register for Parsippany Citizen’s Police Academy

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany–Troy Hills Police Department is hosting a free 10 week Citizen’s Police Academy program held every Thursday night from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. from Thursday, March 8 to Thursday, May 10.

The Academy will be held at the Parsippany Police Headquarters, 3339 Route 46. The Citizen’s Police Academy is limited to twenty applicants and is available on a first come, first serve basis by completing the application which can be found by clicking here.

Applicants must be:
• 18 years of age or older
• Residents of Parsippany
• Parsippany business owners (on a limited basis)
• Parsippany township employees (on a limited basis)

Our goal is to increase communication and partnership between the citizens and the police through education and discussion in order to establish a safer community. The classes provide an in-depth view into various areas of law enforcement such as criminal investigations, firearms, use of force, officer safety, motor vehicle stops and advancements in technology utilized in law enforcement today. Information is gained through classroom and practical scenarios.

If you have any questions please contact Community Relations Officer Remo D’Alessandro at socialmedia@parpolice.com.

Fire destroys Marianne Place home

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Department’s Communication Center received a 911 call from an occupant of 4 Marianne Place reporting a fire.

Parsippany Police Officers, along with Rockaway Neck Fire Department, Lake Hiawatha Fire Department, Boonton RIC Team, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, Rockaway Township Fire Department Air Truck, and the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad responded to the scene.

Upon arrival of responding officers, they attempted to utilize their fire extinguishers to put out the vehicle that was on fire inside the garage, but were unsuccessful. The fire spread from the garage and into the residence. The fire was brought under control and extinguished by responding fire personnel.

Parsippany Fire Investigator Patrol Officer D. Cavaliere, Morris County Sheriff’s Office CID, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Unit responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the resident had just arrived home and parked in the garage. When he exited his 2012 Mercedes Benz C300, he began to smell smoke and then saw flames coming from the vehicle. The residents were unsuccessful in pushing the vehicle out of the garage. The vehicle then became engulfed in flames and spread to the residence.

The 2012 Mercedes Benz C300, a 2016 Acura ILX, and the residence were all heavily damaged by the fire.

There were no reported injuries. The residents are currently staying with family members since the home was left uninhabitable.

The home is a single family home that contains 2,413 square feet and was built in 1985. The home is located near Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 5.

Temple Beth Am – Third Friday Speaker Series

Rabbi Ellen Nemhouser

PARSIPPANY — The popular Third Friday Speaker Series continues at Temple Beth Am on Friday, January 19 at 7:30 p.m., with a timely and engaging speaker: Rabbi Ellen Nemhouser of the Faith Alliance, who will discuss Jews, Christians, and Muslims working together in today’s political climate. 

Rabbi Nemhouser has served in the Union for Reform Judaism in the National Education Dept., at Hebrew Union College as director of continuing education for rabbis, in both a reform and conservative congregation as director of education, and most recently, under the direction of Professor Ken Stein, she worked at Center for Israel Education developing curricula and workshops on the context and history of Modern Israel. 

Currently, Rabbi Nemhouser works and volunteers for Interfaith Atlanta. Her involvement in this programming includes serving on the board of Faith Alliance of Metro Atlanta, as a frequent teacher, speaker, and panelist in interfaith programs, and a trip leader for World Pilgrims.

The Rabbi is serving her fourth year as co- president of the Women’s Rabbinic Network. She is an Executive Committee member of Atlanta’s Jewish Community Relations Council and serves on the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival selection committee.

This important and informative talk at Temple Beth Am is free and open to the public. Temple Beth Am is located at 879 South Beverwyck Rd, Parsippany.

For more information about the Third Friday Speaker Series or Temple Beth Am please contact: Debbie Lesser, Temple Administrator, (973) 887-0046.

Celebrating our 52nd year, Temple Beth Am is a Reform congregation with a diverse membership living throughout Morris County, including the towns of Boonton, Denville, Lake Hiawatha, Mountain Lakes, Montville, Parsippany, Randolph and Rockaway. We open our doors to all adults and youth, singles and couples, Jews-by-birth and Jews-by-choice, and interfaith couples. Led by Rabbi Estelle Mills and Rabbi/Cantor Inna Serebro-Litvak, Temple Beth Am is an inclusive, warm and welcoming place for personal and communal prayer, solace and comfort, joyous celebration, community service, education and sharing as a vibrant Jewish congregation.

Letter to editor: Preschool education is considered important investment

parsippany focusDear Editor:

In places like New York City, preschool education is considered important enough to make the investment in every child.  In towns like ours, pre-K for three and four year olds is widely available, but the financial responsibility falls on young families.  Knowing how important early education is for later success in school, some families make sacrifices to find the money to send their child to a good quality program.  However, not all families have the resources.

The time may come when New Jersey schools make universal pre-K available, but that will come too late for the children turning three and four years old now.  There is not a broad array of scholarships and financial aid programs available to help the preschool child.

Fortunately, one local non-profit assists local families in affording preschool for their children.  Preschool Advantage, based in Morristown, has been helping Morris and Somerset county families for 22 years now and has funded more than 1300 scholarships for pre-school.  

This year, Preschool Advantage has significantly expanded its services in Parsippany and is looking for additional applications in the community.

Parents and friends concerned about how to pay for preschool for a child turning three or four by October 1, 2018 (the school cutoff date this year) can submit an application to Preschool Advantage starting in January.  The applications can be found on the website by clicking here.

Julia Peterson
Barbara Demarest

Little Vikings Competition Cheerleading Comedy Night

PARSIPPANY — Little Vikings Competition Cheerleading will hold Comedy Night on Saturday, February 10 at the Parsippany PAL Youth Center, 33 Baldwin Road.

The night will feature two comedians, Derrick Knopsnyder and Michael Dean Ester.

This is an event for the parents and grownups to enjoy and have some fun. Let’s enjoy big laughs to benefit Little Vikings Competition Cheerleading.

Door open at 6:30 p.m., silent auction called at 9:00 p.m. 21 and older, bring your own food and drinks.

Purchase tickets for only $25.00. Tickets will not be sold at the door.

Include your full name, email address, number of tickets, names of people in party (8-10 per table).  Cash or checks made payable to “LVCC.” You will receive an email confirmation upon receipt of payment. Mail payment to Michelle Lutkowski, 22 Friar Road, Morris Plains, New Jersey 07950 or Danielle Mautone, 25 Colonia Road, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054.

Derrick Knopsnyder

Derrick Knopsnyder officially made his start doing stand up comedy after his freshman year in college, at the age of 19, and he never looked back. Since then Derrick has become one of the fastest rising comedians in Pittsburgh, and is the youngest comedian to be a regular feature act at his home club, the Pittsburgh Improv.

Being a young comedian, Derrick uses his boyish charm and quick wit to connect with audiences all over, but it’s his awkwardness that keeps them laughing all through the night, making him a fan favorite wherever he takes the stage. In 2010, Derrick started out with a dream of being a stand up comic, and four short years later he’s living that dream. Since then he has had some success in the comedy industry, such as winning The Stand Up To Cancer Comedy Competition in Huntington WV, and was most recently named a finalist at the Cleveland Comedy Festival.

During the four years Derrick has been performing stand up, he also completed his bachelor’s degree in Professional Golf Management, and a master’s degree in science. Balancing school and comedy was a difficult process during his first four years. However, he was able to do so successfully earning dean’s list every semester, and performing stand up at clubs and colleges all over the east coast.

As a recent college graduate he is able to use his experiences as a student to entertain this generation of college students in a hilarious way. Now that he is finished with his education he is ready to jump into the comedy scene to pursue his dream of becoming a national club and college act. This is one comic you don’t want to miss! Neon Entertainment has some of the funniest stand up comedians in the country available to book anywhere in the United States.

According to the IRS, Michael’s occupation is a “Professional College Student!” His perky blend of campus comedy has been served up at over forty NACA and APCA Showcases. Two time nominated NACA’s, “Comedian of the Year,” and  “Best Male Performer!” by Campus Activities Magazine, Michael has over 1,800 live performances to his credit. His crowd-pleasing talents are matched only by his professionalism. Maybe that’s why his upbeat humor is a repeat success at so many schools across the country, often as the first face new students see. Penn State University and the University of Maryland entrusted Michael with ‘Welcome Week’ audiences as large as 10,000 students – – two years in a row!

Two Fundraisers for Home Fire Victims

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills would like to invite residents to come out and support a Parsippany family who tragically lost their home in a fire on Christmas Day. There will be two fundraisers in the coming weeks to raise funds for the family.

The first is at Applebee’s on 1057 Route 46 on Saturday, January 27 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. $10.00 admittance to the breakfast fundraiser. The breakfast includes flapjacks, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee, tea, milk or orange juice.

The other will take place at IHOP on 792 Route 46 on Saturday, February 3 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (click here to download flyer to present to server). A percentage of the meal proceeds during that time will go to the family.

Mayor Soriano encourages all of Parsippany’s residents to come out and support our fellow residents during this difficult time.

WHEN: Saturday, January 27, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Applebee’s Parsippany, 1057 Route 46, Parsippany

 

WHEN: Saturday, February 3, 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

WHERE: IHOP Parsippany, 792 Route 46, Parsippany

 

Planning Board holds Reorganization Meeting; Keller nominated Chairman

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board held a reorganization meeting on Monday, January 8. The following appointments were made:

John Von Achen was pointed as a Class IV member, Alternate Number 1, of the Planning Board for a term ending December 31, 2019.

John Von Achen taking oath of office for Planning Board member

Bruce Frigeri was pointed as a Class IV member of the Planning Board for a term ending December 31, 2021.

Bruce Frigeri taking oath of office for Planning Board member

Judy Hernandez was pointed as a Class I member of the Planning Board for a term ending December 31, 2021.

Judy Hernandez taking oath of office for Planning Board member

Attorney Scott Carlson, from Carlson, Siedsma and Warner, was appointed to the position of Planning Board Attorney.

Mayor Michael A. Soriano swears in Scott Carlson, Planning Board Attorney

The entire board voted unanimously to appoint Robert Keller as Chairman of the Planning Board. Keller has been a member of the Planning Board for 22 years and has served under three Chairmans, the most recent being Tom Dinsmore.

Robert Keller was nominated for Chairman Planning Board

Tom Dinsmore, former Chairman, was appointed to Vice-Chairman of the Planning Board by an unanimous vote.

Tom Dinsmore was nominated for Vice-Chairman Planning Board

The board then reaffirmed Nora Jolie as Planning Board Secretary; Appointed Susan Favate, BFL Planning as Township Planner; Andrew Cangiano, Keller & Kirkpatrick as Township Engineer.

In addition, former Township Planner, Edward Snieckus, Burgis Associates, was re-appointed as a hold-over to complete all applications the firm has started; and Bryan VanderGheynst, NV5, Board Engineer was also re-appointed as a hold-over to complete all applications the firm has started.

Jennifer Vealey was reappointed to serve as a Class II member with a term ending December 31, 2018.

Other members of the board consist of Vincent Aperawic, Turan Ayaz, Paula Csantaveri and Saurin Pathak.

Janice McCarthy

Township Clerk Khaled Madin confirmed the Council Appointment of Janice McCarthy, Class III Member, term ending December 31, 2018. Ms. McCarthy was not present at the meeting due to illness, and will be sworn in at the next Planning Board meeting.

In addition Chairman Keller appointed the following members to the Minor Site Plan and Subdivision Committee: Tom Dinsmore (Chairman) Jon Von Achen, Paula Csantaveri, Vincent Aperawic and Bruce Frigeri. The Minor Site Plan and Subdivision Committee meets at 7:00 p.m. (when necessary) prior to a regular Planning Board meeting.

After the reorganization meeting, there was one application to finalize on the agenda. Application 17:521, UPS, Block 136, Lot 43.3, 10 Upper Pond Road for Final Major Site Plan was approved by the board.

The Planning Board is responsible for administering, updating and enforcing the Township’s master plan which is a comprehensive, long-range plan intended to direct the community’s growth and development. It also reviews all sub-divisions and site plans.

The Planning Board is comprised of nine members plus two alternates appointed by the Mayor. These include the Mayor, a Council member, a representative from the Administration and six residents from the general public.

For additional information on the Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board, click here.

Morris County Young Republicans to Host NJGOP Chairman Steinhardt

Douglas J. Steinhardt

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Young Republicans are pleased to host newly elected Chairman of the NJ Republican Committee, Doug Steinhardt, at their upcoming Thursday, January 18 Social held at Vinnie’s Pizzeria, 406 Main Street, Boonton.

The event will begin at 7:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public of all ages. Chairman Steinhardt is a partner at Florio, Perrucci, Steinhardt and and Cappelli.

He was the first five-term Mayor in Lopatcong, New Jersey and previously served as Chairman of the Warren County Republican Committee. Chairman Steinhardt will address the crowd about the State of the New Jersey Republican Party going into 2018.

Vinnie’s Pizzeria and Italian to Indian Fusion will be providing delicious appetizers and refreshments. Guests over 21 may bring their own beverages. Ample parking is available on Main Street or on adjacent Mechanic Street and Cornelia Street.

Morris County Freeholder John Cesaro is serving as Event Sponsor. For any questions, please e-mail morrisyr@gmail.com or visit the Facebook Event Page by clicking here.

Doug served on President Donald J. Trump’s Presidential campaign National Finance Committee. After being named to NJ’s Electoral College delegation for President Trump, Doug served as counsel for Donald J. Trump for President, Inc. in the post-2016, general election, provisional ballot counts in Orange County, FL. Since the November 2016 general election, Doug has been a frequent visitor to the White House and Washington D.C. on various matters of client, political and legal interest.

Doug received a BA in History from Gettysburg College, where he was also a four-year member of the Gettysburg NCAA Division III football team. At Widener University Law School, Doug was a member and, later, associate editor of the Law Review.

Doug and his wife Trudy were married in Belvidere in 1996 and live in Lopatcong Township with their two children.

Leigh DelPorto, Marketing Sales Coordinator, Boiling Springs Savings Bank joins Kiwanis Club

PARSIPPANY — Frank Cahill, President of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, installs new member, Leigh A. DelPorto, Boiling Springs Savings Bank Marketing Sales Coordinator at a recent breakfast meeting.

DelPorto was sponsored by Silvia Cooper, also from Boiling Springs Savings Bank.

Among Leigh’s duties at Boiling Springs Savings Bank are to train, coach, and provide ongoing sales development and mentoring to an eight branch network consisting of 46 team members to ensure branch goals are met; Plan and coordinate business development activities in both the private and 501(C)3 sector; Active involvement in both civic and business organizations to promote our Community Alliance Program (“CAP”) as well as other business lines of the bank; Ongoing collaboration with CAP clients to increase their supporters; Present financial literacy courses to various organizations as community service and prepare monthly reporting on all sales and marketing activities to VP of Marketing.

Frank Cahill said “We welcome Leigh to this global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46. For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany click here.

Silvia Cooper, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill and Boiling Springs Savings Bank Marketing Sales Coordinator Leigh A. DelPorto

Breaking news: Slippery Driveway Causes Vehicle to slide into stairwell

PARSIPPANY — A motor vehicle accident with entrapment occurred at Mountain Club, 2467 Route 10, at approximately 4:27 p.m. on Sunday, January 7.

The Acura slid off the roadway, landed in a stairwell and overturned on its driver side and hit a electrical box, requesting building maintenance to the scene. Mt. Tabor Volunteer Fire Department District 1 was on the scene, Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad and Parsippany Rescue and Recovery.

Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department worked quickly to stabilize the vehicle and remove both passenger doors to gain access to the victim. The male driver was removed from the vehicle. The driver was complaining of back pain, and was transported to Morristown Medical Center.

Lake Hiawatha Volunteer Fire District 4 provided station coverage for the duration of the call

As details are released Parsippany Focus will update this story.

Parsippany Christian Lady Patriots Hoopsters take Title

PARSIPPANY — On Friday, January 5 and Saturday, January 6, Parsippany Christian School hosted the 40th Annual Garden State Association of Christian Schools (GSACS) varsity basketball tournament. 

The first seeded Parsippany Christian girls’ varsity basketball team (10-1) defeated second seeded Gloucester County Christian 36-20 on Saturday to claim the school’s first GSACS championship in 16 years. The Parsippany Christian girls’ varsity basketball team lead 16-12 at halftime. In the third quarter PCS extended its lead by outscoring Gloucester County Christian 11-4, as the girls cruised to their first GSACS title since 2002 and second GSACS championship overall.

Senior guard, Alyssa Chellaraj stated, ” It was very special to win GSACS my senior year and to finally break the sixteen drought!”  

Chloe Milanesi

The Parsippany Christian girls were lead by tournament MVP Chloe Milanesi, a sophomore guard, who had 15 points including two 3-pointers, 16 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals in the final. It is the second year in a row Milanesi has been awarded GSACS tournament MVP.  Freshman forward Rose Hockman contributed 8 points and 8 rebounds in the title game. In addition to Milanesi earning MVP, All-tournament selections from Parsippany Christian included Rose Hockman, Alyssa Chellaraj, and Charlotte Milanesi.

Alyssa Chellaraj
Lily Jules

On top of the championship victory, the girls’ team earned the Christian Testimony award, an honor afforded to the team that exhibits great sportsmanship and high character values during the tournament.

On the boys side, second seeded Parsippany Christian boys’ varsity basketball team (8-4) lost to first seeded and defending champions Solid Rock in the championship by the score of 32-29.  Parsippany Christian, down by 11 at halftime, battled back to get within 3 points with 12 seconds remaining and with possession of the ball but missed at the buzzer.  PCS boys were looking to claim their first GSACS title since 2014. 

Head Coach Armand Milanesi stated, “Credit Solid Rock, playing their second game of the day, to gut out the win. They played great defense, put us on our heels, and made us uncomfortable on offense.  But as we’ve stated all season, win or lose we give glory to The Lord. So we are grateful that The Lord allowed us the opportunity to play in the championship and experience all the challenges that come with trying to defeat a champion. We will re-group and start our league schedule fully prepared.” 

Senior wings, Michael Jetton and Patrick Vance were named to the all-tournament team.  

Parsippany Christian boys and girls varsity basketball teams continue its league schedule at rival Veritas Christian on Tuesday, January 9.

All tournament players
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