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Letter to the editor: Frustrated with Waterview Mud

Frank L. Cahill
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parsippany focusI am frustrated about the mud in the road on Waterview, I called the Engineering Department and put in a complaint.

There is soil from Route 46 to the top by Route 287. I know there is the Morris soil conservation act and it should be adhered to.

There are trucks in and out all day today and men with shovels in the road it is a real mess. When I called engineering they said a police lieutenant from traffic was going there to access the situation and the street sweeper was broken.

That is the builders problem; residents should not have to wash their cars because the sweeper is broken.  I left a complaint with the police lieutenant also and have heard nothing. The excavation company should be cleaning the tires of every truck! I am not being unreasonable drive out there and you will see what I mean it is a mess.

FRUSTRATED WITH PARSIPPANY AGAIN

Curtis Hardenburg

Editor’s Note: Parsippany-Troy Hills Engineering Department ordered the developer to sweep Waterview Blvd immediately and the township will remain diligent in making sure the developer abides to his agreement which includes not tracking mud onto the roadways.

 

Letters to the Editor: Do you have an opinion to express? Send letters to news@parsippanyfocus.com. Disclaimer: To be considered for publication, letters to the editor must include the writer’s full name, address and daytime phone number. Letters may be condensed, although care is taken to preserve the writer’s comments (maximum 200 words). Copyright in material submitted to Parsippany Focus and accepted for publication remains with the author, but Parsippany Focus may freely reproduce it in print, electronic or other forms. We are unable to acknowledge receipt of letters. All information contained in a letter to the editor, is the opinion of the writer and not the opinion of Parsippany Focus.

Mt. Tabor natives take home World Cup in Martial Arts

Frank L. Cahill
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Mt. Tabor natives take home World Cup in Martial Arts

PARSIPPANY — Raymond Trunk, a Mt. Tabor Elementary School Fifth grader, has won two First Place and one third place trophy in the World Cup International Invitational Martial Arts competition this past Sunday. Lillian Go, a Brooklawn Middle School 8th grader, has also won two First place trophies and a third place trophy. Shauna Cantor, mother of Lillian Go, has also won First Place this past weekend.

“It must be a Mt. Tabor thing! Raymond, Lilly and Shauna have brought some amazing Mt. Tabor juju to our Fairfield school and have definitely made Mt. Tabor proud this weekend,” said Instructor Peaches Vizzio.

Raymond Trunk has competed in many martial arts tournaments.  At first, coming home empty handed but then gradually moving up from third place to now being a two time World Cup Champion.  He competed in three divisions this year, taking home the World Cup in both the 9-11 Intermediate Open Forms and Point Sparring divisions.  He placed Third in the 9-11 intermediate traditional forms division.

Lilly is new to Kung-Fu but is already displaying some amazing grit!  She has trained hard this year and it shows!  The World Cup being her third competition ever, she exhibited poise and grace and a tiger’s strength taking home First Place in 12-14 Intermediate Traditional forms, First Place in 17 and Under All belts Team Pairs and Third place in Point Sparring.

Shauna Cantor, Lillian’s Mom and local Mt. Tabor Girl Scout Leader, is setting a great example for her daughter!  Deciding to train in Kung-Fu to spend some quality time with her daughter and get into better shape has turned into a World Cup Championship in the 40 & Over Women’s beginner division!  This goes to show that Kung-Fu is for any age and any background!

These divisions contain students from many different martial arts backgrounds including Korean Tae Kwon Do, Japanese Karate and Chinese Kung-Fu.  Countries all over the world represented their styles in this tournament.

Vizzio’s Institute of Martial Arts of Fairfield brought 10 competitors to compete in the World Cup.  All ten competitors took home trophies.  Overall, one Grand Champion, nine first place trophies, two second place trophies and two third place trophies.

Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance success story

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance success story

PARSIPPANY — Jennifer Sikora, a member of Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad spent many days during National Fire Prevention Week in October visiting elementary schools and giving the students a tour of the ambulance.

Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad visited Lake Parsippany Elementary School, East Lake Elementary School, Littleton Elementary School, Mt. Tabor Elementary School, Intervale Elementary School, Northvail Elementary School, St. Elizabeth Nursery and Montessori School and Parsippany Christian School, along with Fire Districts 1, 2, 3 and 6.

Sikora had the opportunity to bring “The Ambulance” to show the students. Her goal was to get the students around the Ambulance in a positive way and teach them that it’s not scary, and that like the fire fighters, the EMTs are there to help.

On Tuesday, January 16 that all paid off. They received a call involving a local ten-year-old. When they arrived on scene Sikora immediately went to assess the child.

As she walked into the bedroom and introduced herself to the child, the child opened her eyes and said “I know you, didn’t you bring the Ambulance to my school?” I asked where she went to school, and she said, Intervale School, and Sikora confirmed that she did bring the Ambulance there.

Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance

After Sikora talked to her for a few minutes and explained that they were going to take her to the hospital in the Ambulance she got up and walked out with me. When mom asked if she wanted her to come she replied that she could come but that she wasn’t scared because she knew the Ambulance wasn’t scary and the EMT Jenn and her friends were going to take care of her.

She sat on the stretcher and Jenn explained that they were going to put the seatbelts on her, like they talked about at her school, she replied “to keep me safe” (Sikora had shown the students the stretcher and that they would always wear all the seatbelts to keep them safe).

They had a nice ride to the hospital, with no fear and no tears. Jenn said “This is why I do  this. This is why I put in extra time going to the schools and to events in Parsippany and talking to the children, trying to educate them and the parents.” 

“I said when I started to work on the program, that if it helped even one child be more comfortable should they ever have to go in the Ambulance that I would be happy,” continued Jenn. Her wish came true on Tuesday, January 16.

Jenn would like to thank the Parsippany Fire Prevention. Their support really helped make it happen! Brian Ricci and Joe Serrecchiafrom The Fire Prevention office were among my biggest supporters (and they are at the schools with the Fire Trailer and the Fire Departments the whole time too).

Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance participates in the Parsippany Fall Festival, Parsippany Kiwanis Annual Touch-A-Truck, Parsippany Trunk or Treat as well as many other opportunities to demonstrate the functions to the residents of Parsippany.

Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad Brian McGee, Breanne Calabrese and Jennifer Sikora

Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad has been serving the community since 1942. They are your Neighbors helping Neighbors.

Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad has been providing quality Emergency Medical Services since our founding in 1942. It is our mission to provide FREE emergency care to the sick and injured. They believe the best way to achieve this goal is to keep members active, trained and the best possible equipment.

HISTORY

  • The squad initially served the entire town of Parsippany until 1952 when Fire District 5 started the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad; currently they serve all areas except Lake Hiawatha section of Parsippany.
  • The squad house, located at 397 Parsippany Road was originally only a two bay building. In 1975 the building was expanded to have a third bay. In the late 80’s the front bays were dug down to allow for the bigger ambulances.
  • All of the members, some of who may be your neighbors, dedicate their time to helping the community. All are certified in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and most are EMT (Emergency Medical Technicians) and defibrillator certified.
  • Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad has three fully equipped ambulances and a 1st Responder Truck. Each of the ambulances can accommodate up to three patients, two lying down and one sitting. The 1st Responder carries a sub-set of the ambulance equipment but does not carry patients. It is used to provide support to our ambulances and transportation for our members.

To volunteer call Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad Monday to Friday from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at (973) 887-3003.

For all emergencies dial 911.

 

Brooklawn Middle School Winter Concert

Frank L. Cahill
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Brooklawn Middle School Winter Concert

PARSIPPANY — The Brooklawn Middle School Winter Concert held during January 2018.  The video is produced by Video on the Go.

Brooklawn Middle School, located at 350 Beachwood Drive, is part of the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District, located in Morris County. Approximately 900 sixth, seventh, and eighth graders are taught by 115 content and special area teachers.

Woman’s Club presents Fifth Grade Spelling Bee

Frank L. Cahill
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Woman’s Club presents Fifth Grade Spelling Bee

PARSIPPANY — The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills presented their annual “Fifth Grade Spelling Bee” on Friday, January 19, held at Parsippany Hills High School.

The Judges for the event were Greg Elbin, President Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation; Michael DiSanto, Principal, Parsippany Hills High School and William Westhoven, Reporter, Gannett NJ Daily Record.

Two students from each fifth grade class in all of the ten elementary schools were represented.

The winners of the 2018 Fifth Grade Spelling Bee are:  First Place: Ali Hagag, representing Knollwood Elementary School; Second Place: Sunny Yang, representing Intervale Elementary School; and Third Place: Riya Jain, representing Littleton Elementary School.

The three winners  are invited to participate in the NJSFWC District Spelling Bee to be held on Saturday, February 3 in Rockaway. Registration for that event is at 9:30 a.m. and the bee begins at 10:00 a.m. (The snow date is February 10).

The regional winners will then be invited to the State Championship on March 3 at NJSFWC Headquarters, 55 Liberty Center Way, New Brunswick. (The snow date is March 10).

The Club has served the township and the state with initiatives to support not only education, but also home life, conservation and more.

WCPTH is very proud to have been instrumental in the founding of the Parsippany Library and the Parsippany Child Day Care Center.

Today the Woman’s Club is involved with the Parsippany Food Pantry, American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Jersey Battered Women’s Service and Child Abuse Prevention – NJ.  The club also supports Boatsie’s Boxes for the military serving overseas, UNICEF, Heifer International and other worthy and charitable causes. The club really does offer something for everyone.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.

For more information call Cathy at (973) 984-0758, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, or click here to visit their website.

Morris County Young Republicans welcomes Doug Steinhardt

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Young Republicans welcomes Doug Steinhardt

BOONTON — The Morris County young Republicans welcomed Douglas Steinhardt, Republican State Chairman at its January meeting held at Vinnie’s Pizzeria & Ristorante.

The event was sponsored by Freeholder John Cesaro.

Chairman Steinhardt is a partner at Florio, Perrucci, Steinhardt and and Cappelli.

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

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.

John Cesaro joined the freeholder board in June 2012 when he filled an unexpired term that ended December 31, 2012. He served as deputy director of the freeholder board in 2015 and 2017.

He is a former Parsippany-Troy Hills councilman who served on that governing body from January 2006 until mid-June 2012. While he was on the township council he held the position of council president from 2008 – 2009.

The Morris County Young Republicans February meeting will feature guest speaker Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce on Thursday, February 15 starting at 7:00 p.m. at Thatcher McGhee’s, 53 Broadway, Denville. The event is sponsored by Rob Zwigard, Executive Director of the Morris Victory PAC.

Both Assemblywoman DeCroce and Mr. Zwigard will address the guests but in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, instead of our traditional question and answer format each person will have the opportunity to ask their question one-on-one in a speed dating format to each speaker. As always this event is free and open to the public of all ages.

The Morris County Young Republicans are determined to grow the membership and build strong Republican networks in all of the 39 municipalities in Morris County. They encourage you and anyone you know to join the club by donating yearly dues of just $35.00.

You may bring a check made payable to “Morris County Young Republicans” to the February meeting, or mail a check to the office at 26 Schuyler Place, Morristown, NJ 07960.

You can also pay online by credit card by visiting the “Contribute” page on our website, by clicking here. Membership dues allow the club to grow and run events that benefit Republicans at all levels.

For club voting rights, members must be registered Republicans between ages 18-40 and live in Morris County but we welcome any of our friends outside of those requirements to join as Associate Members and to attend all of our events.

Jai Ganesh Yoga Studio opens in Lake Hiawatha

Frank L. Cahill
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Jai Ganesh Yoga Studio opens in Lake Hiawatha

PARSIPPANY — Members of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce cut the ribbon for the grand opening of Jai Ganesh Yoga Studio on Sunday, January 14. Jai Ganesh Yoga Studio is located at 138 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha. They can be reached by calling (973) 339-3222.

Jai Ganesh Yoga Studio was built as a place where people of all ages and experience levels can partake in yoga.  It is meant to be both a place of mental and physical wellness and a community center where ideas and skills can be exchanged.

Jai Ganesh Yoga Studio is owned by area resident Rama Jonnalagadda.

Many friends and family members joined Rama Jonnalagadda in the celebration

Rama got married at a young age to her husband Pandu Jonnalagadda and together they moved to the United States, a foreign country where they didn’t know the language and customs. With the support of Pandu, Rama taught herself English, made a home, took care of her parents, brought her brothers to America and helped them establish themselves and raise three children. Through all of this Rama never had the opportunity to pursue her dreams.

A few years ago, Jonnalagadda, started taking yoga classes which started the seed of a new dream. She pursued her interest, became a certified yoga instructor and opened a yoga studio. It’s rare to find south Asian women of my Rama’s generation who are willing to go against the grain and pursue their dreams and its rare to find husbands that are willing to support them.

The celebration cake

Sirisha Yalamanchi, Rama’s daughter, said “I am incredibly proud of both of them for starting this endeavor and I wish them the very best of luck.”

Jai Ganesh Yoga Studio will be open for business officially in February 2018.  Individuals can book classes on the mind body app and more information can be found by clicking here.

Jai Ganesh Yoga Studio is a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Frank Cahill, Executive Board Member Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce presents Rama Jonnalagadda with a membership certificate, as Councilman Michael dePierro, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani, Mayor Michael Soriano looks on

All Saints Academy to host Tricky Tray

Frank L. Cahill
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All Saints Academy to host Tricky Tray

PARSIPPANY —  All Saints Academy will host its ninth annual Tricky Tray on Friday, February 9, in the All Saints Academy gymnasium at 189 Baldwin Road.

Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and prize drawings will begin at 7:00 p.m.  Prizes include 50/50, basket raffles, designer pocketbooks, and Grand Prizes include Jets and Devils tickets, sports and academic camps, Lakeland Hills YMCA membership, a gift certificate to Great Wolf Lodge, a week stay at PGA Village in Florida, and so much more.

Admission is $40.00, and includes three sheets of regular tickets, coffee and dessert.  Advance ticket packages are also available. Click here to download advanced ticket and reservation form.

Please contact the school at (973) 334-4704 for more information.

Thousands gather in Morristown as Women’s March kicks off

Frank L. Cahill
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Thousands gather in Morristown as Women’s March kicks off

MORRISTOWN — Marchers gathered in front of Morristown Town Hall for the 11:00 a.m. kickoff for a local Women’s March. Protesters marched up South Street for a rally on Morristown Green featuring Governor Phil Murphy and his wife, Tammy.

The second annual march mirrored the local, state and national marches held to coincide with the presidential inauguration of Donald Trump last January. This year’s slogan, “Power to the Polls” showcased the efforts of women in New Jersey and across the country who “have been rising,” according to this year’s planners.

Tammy Murphy, Jennifer DeMaio, Governor Phil Murphy and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano

Wearing pink hats and holding handmade signs, thousands of people gathered in Morristown Saturday morning for a local Women’s March designed as both a protest of President Donald Trump’s first year in office and a call for a massive voter turnout in the November midterm elections.

Many Parsippany residents showed their support for Mikie Sherrill for Congress. Mikie is running to represent New Jersey’s 11th District in Congress to fight back against Donald Trump and to fight for our future. She is a Naval Academy graduate, Navy Pilot, former Federal Prosecutor and mother of four residing in Montclair.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Sorino was supporting a “Mikie Sherrill” badge on this jacket
Jonathan Nelson and Tammy Murphy
Thousands gather in Morristown for the Women’s March
Wall to wall people in front of Morristown Town Hall
Parsippany residents Betty Wyka and Brielle Wyka
Parsippany residents Judy Hernandez and Kendra Von Achen
Mikie Sherrill
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Jonathan Nelson with Mikie Sherrill

The Morristown march is one of hundreds of events taking place this weekend to mark the first anniversary of the 2017 Women’s March on Washington, D.C., and its sister marches around the world.

Parsippany residents Judy Hernandez

Beau is the cutest ten-week old male Pit mix looking for a home

Frank L. Cahill
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Beau is the cutest ten-week old male Pit mix looking for a home

PARSIPPANY — Meet Beau! He is the cutest ten-week old male Pit mix with the sweetest personality.

Beau loves to cuddle and give lots of kisses. He particularly loves taking naps in fuzzy blankets and being treated like the baby he is! He is very smart and already learned “sit” and “paw” in his foster home! Not to mention he is starting to understand the idea of potty training! He is working on his leash training and crate training. Beau loves other dogs and would do best in a home with kids 6+.

Beau

If you are interested in adopting Beau, please fill out an application by clicking here. Due to the large number of puppy applications  received, they will only be processing applications after a $25.00 donation is made. Wise Animal Rescue us a volunteer-based group and want to ensure that all applicants are as serious about the adoption process as we are.

Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Instagram by clicking here.
Like Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.

W.A.R.’s goal is to find the perfect family dynamic and place our dogs in a loving, safe and permanent home. All of our dogs available for adoption are spayed/neutered, up-to-date on shots and microchipped.

Our adoption process starts with filling an application, home visit, meet and greet and then finalizing with an adoption contract and fee.

Beau! He is the cutest ten-week old male Pit mix

Parsippany Regional’s Alex Cavaluzzo scored his 150th point

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Regional’s Alex Cavaluzzo scored his 150th point

PARSIPPANY — Thursday, January 18 was a great night for Parsippany Regional Ice Hockey at Mennen Arena: A huge win over Whippany Park and celebrated Alex Cavaluzzo’s 150 career points.

Parsippany Regional Ice Hockey will face Montville on Monday, January 22.

Alex is a senior at Parsippany High School.

Alex Cavaluzzo and the Parsippany Regional Ice Hockey Coaching Staff

Andy Choffo appointed to Board of Education

Frank L. Cahill
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Andy Choffo appointed to Board of Education

PARSIPPANY — Former Board of Education member Andrew Choffo was re-appointed to the Board of Education, on Thursday, January 18. Choffo is replacing Nicholas Kumburis who resigned on December 31.

Choffo, a long standing board member, lost re-election in the General Election in November to new board member Matthew DeVitto. Current Board of Education members are:

Mr. Frank Neglia, President
Mrs. Alison Cogan, Vice-President
Mr. Timothy Berrios
Mr. George Blair
Mr. Andrew Choffo
Mr. Joseph Cistaro
Mr. Matthew DeVitto
Mrs. Susy Golderer
Mrs. Judy Mayer

Choffo will have to run again in the next general election to be able to continue on the board past December 31, 2018.

In addition Mr. Frank Neglia, Mrs. Susy Golderer and Mrs.Judy Meyer term also expires December 31, 2018.

Connie Keller named “Kiwanian of the Year”

Frank L. Cahill
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Connie Keller named “Kiwanian of the Year”

PARSIPPANY — At the annual Awards Dinner of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, Past-President and current Treasurer, Connie Keller, was awarded with Kiwanian of the Year. Last year’s honoree, Carol Tiesi, presented the award to Connie.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill with Connie Keller

The criterias for Kiwanian of the Year are: Been a member in good standing for at least two years; Attended 60% of the meetings for the past two years; Completed a program that, in the committee’s estimation, deserves superior recognition, or held office and creatively planned Club activities for the current Kiwanis Year; Chaired a committee or served on a committee that completed Club work in a superior fashion; Worked on District or International program that brought recognition to our own Club; Completed a significant number of hours on community projects.

Our honorary for this year officially became a member of our Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany in 2011 although this member has been involved in the workings of our wonderful club for years, but this member was not official. Newsletters were created and printed, and mailed out to our membership by this involved individual before joining our Club. During this pre-membership period of time, this individual displayed a great interest in Kiwanis by attending evening meetings.

Carol Tiesi presenting the Kiwanian of the Year Award to Connie Keller

Connie Keller joined Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany in 2011 and has been an active member for seven years.  This member has held the offices of Vice President, President Elect, Club President, and President of our Foundation.  During this member’s Presidential year the Club celebrated our 25th  Anniversary. She also received the George F. Hixon Fellowship Award in 2014. Connie currently holds the Office of Club Treasurer and works timelessly on other important Club endeavors.

Frank Cahill introduces Carol Tiesi, who presented the award to Connie Keller

She works diligently on formulating and the printing of our Club Directory and provides our online Newsletter for our membership.  She has attended numerous Kiwanis Mid-Winter Conferences.  She has worked hard to invite a great many individuals to our Grand Tasting in October each year and in the printing of literature and tickets for the event.   She has also worked with the committees of Touch a Truck and Trivia Night to setup the program and to help to make sure that the events ran smoothly. She has also enjoyed serving the community by cooking at Homeless Solutions and participating in our yearly Breakfast for Santa at the Parsippany Child Daycare Center.

Michael and Jonathan Keller watches as their mom receives Kiwanian of the Year Award
Connie Keller proudly displays her award, as Club President Frank Cahill looks on

Parsippany Elks donates “Tackle Wheels” to PAL Redhawks

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Elks donates “Tackle Wheels” to PAL Redhawks
Tackle Wheels

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Elks Lodge #2078 made a generous contribution to Parsippany PAL and the PAL Redhawks. 

The Elks contribution has allowed the Parsippany PAL Redhawks to purchase three Tackle Wheels which are a football training innovation that allows the kids to practice wrapping up on open field tackles without using another player, thus greatly reducing injuries.

Pop-up Dummy

They have also purchased a Pop Up Dummy which is safer than a traditional blocking dummy since there is no holder needed.

Lastly, since not every child has the opportunity to receive the private athletic training that has become common place today, the Program has also purchased two Power Harnesses, two Speed Chutes and an Agility Trainer which will allow everyone the opportunity to make themselves a little bit faster, a little bit stronger and much more confident on and off the field.

SKLZ Speed Chute Resistance Trainer

With the gift the PAL Program will be able to run more effective and even safer practices in the upcoming season and well beyond.

PHS to induct 2018 Hall of Fame Class

Frank L. Cahill
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PHS to induct 2018 Hall of Fame Class

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High School will be inducting their 2018 Hall of Fame Class on Tuesday, February 13, at 5:00 p.m. in the Media Center. PHS would like to invite community members, alumni, parents and students to celebrate with us at this year’s induction ceremony. This year’s induction class consists of two impressive members.

 Andrew Ladas (1994)

Andrew Ladas

Andy Ladas graduated from PHS in 1994.  A strong student in addition to a being a tough wrestler and an outstanding soccer player, Andy was super-involved while at PHS and was loved by his classmates and teachers for his sense of humor, kindness and competitiveness. He was one of five Ladas children to attend Par High including (in order) his twin brother Stephen and his sisters Vanessa, Cindy and Christina (also a Par High Hall of Famer).

Andy attended Central Connecticut College with his brother Stephen where they played soccer for four years. After college Andy began his extensive commitment to community service. He is a Board Member of the Parsippany Education Foundation which provides educational grants that benefit Parsippany students and teachers. In honor of his father, Tom, he also awards two scholarships each year (one to each high school) through the Tom Ladas Memorial Scholarship Fund.

A lover of sports, Andy is also a Board Member of the Parsippany Soccer Club where he volunteers countless hours as a coach and serves as Treasurer and Co-Director of the Parsippany Pride Soccer Tournament.

Andy has also been heavily involved in Christian Youth programs in the community. He currently runs the middle school youth group for Christ the King Church and opens up his own home twice a month for meetings, fun activities and to plan service projects. Andy has also led three high school mission trips to Cap Haitien, Haiti, delivering supplies and providing meals for the local impoverished families. He even organizes soccer clinics for the children.

Michael Yesunas (1969)

Michael Yesunas

Mike Yesunas was a mainstay at Parsippany High School for over 30 years as a student, an athlete, an educator, a coach and a mentor. As a student, Mike excelled in the classroom and on the athletic fields, participating in Football and Track & Field. After graduating from PHS, Mike attended East Stroudsburg University where he majored in Physical Education and Health. Upon his graduation, he returned to his alma mater and started his career as a Health and Physical Education teacher at Par High.

As a teacher, Mr. Yesunas was positive, encouraging, organized and caring. He worked hard every day to make sure his students were getting the most out of themselves and developing a life-long love of fitness. Mike served as the Head Football Coach from 1984-1989 after serving as an Assistant Coach for many years prior.  He was also an Assistant Coach for Wrestling and a Throwing Coach for Track & Field.

After finishing up his coaching career, Mike served as the Athletic Site Coordinator at PHS where he quickly became a steadying presence in our Athletic Department. From readying fields, to coordinating officials, to organizing equipment, Mike was an asset to administrators, coaches and athletes and served as a great ambassador for Parsippany High School.

 

 

 

 

Mount Tabor Fire Department Receives Donation of Pet Oxygen Masks

Frank L. Cahill
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Mount Tabor Fire Department Receives Donation of Pet Oxygen Masks

PARSIPPANY — The Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department has received a donation of three sets of specially designed pet oxygen mask kits from at-home pet services provider Canine Company.  One kit is being deployed to each of the department’s three stations, so firefighters can deliver oxygen to pets in need on the scene of house fires and other emergencies.

“We cover one-third of the Township of Parsippany, which means a lot of people and a ton of pets,” said Chief Bryan Crawford. “Our service to protect life and property doesn’t just stop at humans. Most pets are treated like family and a loss can be devastating. This oxygen mask kit gives firefighters an opportunity to save our four-legged friends .”

Family pets are at special risk of smoke inhalation during a home fire because they are unable to leave the house without help.  The cone-shaped pet masks are designed for a pet’s snout, which human masks do not fit. Each donated set includes masks in three sizes to fit a wide range of pets – from small mammals to giant breed dogs.

To ensure rescuers know there are pets in a home, Canine Company is offering free “Pets Inside” decals to local pet parents.  Decals are available from the fire department or by completing the Request a Decal form on the company’s website, by clicking here.

Canine Company is on a mission to get the pet oxygen masks into the hands of first responders in all the communities where its clients live. Last year, Canine Company donated more than 170 mask kits to fire departments and first aid squads in 60 communities across New Jersey, New York and the New England states.

 “Our company was founded by a family of pet lovers and our mission is to help other families keep their pets healthy, safe and happy,” said Renee Coughlin of Canine Company.

“Our goal is to get these in to the hands of first responders wherever our clients live so they are ready to handle an emergency involving family pets,” she added. 

Canine Company provides at-home pet care products and services including the Invisible Fence® brand pet containment systems and Manners obedience training to pet parents across New Jersey, New York and New England.  Through its Canine Love campaign, the company supports pet rescue and provides pet oxygen masks to first responders. For information click here or call (800) 818-3647.

The Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District #1 has been serving the citizens of Parsippany since 1910. The Department has 49 active firefighters operating five apparatus from three stations to protect life and property. For information click here. 

CNO Financial Announces Two Bankers Life Appointments

Frank L. Cahill
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CNO Financial Announces Two Bankers Life Appointments

PARSIPPANY — CNO Financial Group announced that Nathan Richardson has been promoted to senior vice president of sales and distribution, and Brian Wilson has been appointed vice president of field development, both at its Bankers Life business segment.

As senior vice president of sales and distribution, Richardson is responsible for leading the segment’s nationwide sales organization, comprising more than 4,500 agents and 250 branch offices. A 26-year veteran of Bankers Life, he joined the company in 1992, holding a variety of sales leadership positions throughout his tenure, most recently as South Central territory vice president since 2013.

As vice president of field development, Wilson is responsible for field manager and agent training, support and development. He joins Bankers Life after 16 years at Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance in Milwaukee, where he served in several sales and business development capacities and most recently held the position of vice president of national sales. Wilson has held previous roles at Royal Bank of Canada and U.S. Bancorp, and has a Master’s of Business Administration in international studies from Marquette University and a bachelor’s in business administration and marketing from University of North Dakota.

Wilson replaces Peter Wilkins, who will retire from Bankers Life after a 15-year tenure with the company as of March 1, 2018. Wilkins joined Bankers Life in 2003 as expansion vice president and subsequently held a variety of leadership roles including territory vice president for both the Central and South Central territories, and finally as vice president of field development, focusing on field training innovation.

“Nate has consistently proven himself to be a leader in our organization, with a deep understanding of the middle-income insurance market and a commitment to helping our customers plan for retirement,” said Scott Goldberg, president of Bankers Life. “Brian brings a wealth of industry knowledge and valuable insight to his new role, and we look forward to welcoming him to the leadership team.”  Regarding the retirement of Peter Wilkins, Goldberg said, “We celebrate Peter’s many accomplishments over the past 15 years with Bankers Life and throughout his career. We are grateful for his innumerable contributions to the business, and wish him the very best in his retirement.”

CNO Financial Group, Inc.  is a holding company.  The insurance subsidiaries – principally Bankers Life and Casualty Company, Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company and Washington National Insurance Company – primarily serve middle-income pre-retiree and retired Americans by helping them protect against financial adversity and provide for a more secure retirement.  For more information, visit CNO by clicking here.

 

Wyndham Hotels to buy La Quinta Hotels

Frank L. Cahill
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Wyndham Hotels to buy La Quinta Hotels

PARSIPPANY — Wyndham Worldwide Corporation and La Quinta Holdings Inc. announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Wyndham Worldwide will acquire La Quinta’s hotel franchise and hotel management businesses for $1.95 billion in cash.  The acquisition is expected to close in the second quarter of 2018. Currently LaQuinta corporate headquarters are located in Irving, Texas.

Wyndham Worldwide headquarters is located at 22 Sylvan Way. Local area La Quinta Inn & Suites are located in Fairfield, Clifton and Secaucus.

Under the terms of the agreement, stockholders of La Quinta will receive $8.40 per share in cash (approximately $1.0 billion in aggregate), and Wyndham Worldwide will repay approximately $715 million of La Quinta debt net of cash and set aside a reserve of $240 million for estimated taxes expected to be incurred in connection with the taxable spin-off of La Quinta’s owned real estate assets into CorePoint Lodging Inc.  Immediately prior to the sale of La Quinta to Wyndham Worldwide, La Quinta will spin off its owned real estate assets into a publicly-traded real estate investment trust, CorePoint Lodging.

Wyndham’s Hotel Group is the world’s largest and most diverse hotel business based on number of properties.  With the acquisition of La Quinta’s asset-light, fee-for-service business consisting of nearly 900 managed and franchised hotels, Wyndham Hotel Group will span 21 brands and over 9,000 hotels across more than 75 countries.

The addition of La Quinta, one of the largest midscale brands in the industry, will build upon Wyndham Hotel Group’s strong midscale presence, expand its reach further into the fast-growing upper-midscale segment, and position Wyndham Hotel Group to be the preferred partner and accommodations provider of developers and guests.  The La Quinta Returns® loyalty program, with its 13 million enrolled members, will be combined with the award-winning Wyndham Rewards® program, with its 53 million enrolled members.

Stephen P. Holmes, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Wyndham Worldwide, said, “This transaction builds on Wyndham Worldwide’s proven track record of acquiring companies that are a strong strategic and cultural fit, add highly-regarded brands to our portfolio and offer clear opportunities to drive shareholder value through growth, shared best practices and sharp execution.”

“La Quinta will immediately become one of our flagship brands,” said Geoff Ballotti, President and Chief Executive Officer of Wyndham Hotel Group. “It is an exceptionally strong brand that is led by service-minded associates who deliver some of the highest customer engagement levels in our industry.  We expect that La Quinta guests and franchisees will benefit from our intense focus on product quality and our best-in-class technology, digital, loyalty and distribution platforms.  This acquisition also significantly expands our hotel management business and provides us with substantial new opportunities to drive increased growth in our business.”

Keith Cline, President and Chief Executive Officer of La Quinta, added, “As we anticipated, the separation of our businesses is enabling greater strategic clarity and allowing our company to take advantage of growth opportunities that naturally flow from each business model.  To that end, we are excited to announce the addition of the La Quinta franchise and management businesses to Wyndham Hotel Group’s portfolio.  We believe that, under the management of Wyndham’s seasoned team of executives, the La Quinta portfolio will grow and thrive, yielding long-term benefits to the stakeholders of both companies.”

The transaction, which has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies, is expected to close upon the completion of the planned spin-off of La Quinta’s owned real estate assets into the separate entity.  Closing is subject to approval by La Quinta stockholders, regulatory and government approval and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. Additional information about the transaction will be available on the companies’ investor relations websites, investor.wyndhamworldwide.com and ir.lq.com.

La Quinta also announced that Keith A. Cline has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of CorePoint Lodging effective upon completion of the planned spin-off.

Wyndham Worldwide’s planned spin-off of Wyndham Hotel Group remains on track for an expected distribution in the second quarter of 2018.

Pennacchio Highlights Growing Concerns About Marijuana Legalization

Frank L. Cahill
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Pennacchio Highlights Growing Concerns About Marijuana Legalization

NEW JERSEY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) urged Governor Phil Murphy to slow his rush to legalize marijuana in New Jersey citing growing concerns about the impact of such a drastic move on young people and already struggling communities.

Senator Joseph Pennacchio

Senator Joe Pennacchio urged Governor Phil Murphy to slow his rush to legalize marijuana in New Jersey citing growing concerns about potential negative impacts.

“A few months ago it seemed inevitable that legalized marijuana would be approved in New Jersey,” said Pennacchio. “Today, however, a growing number of legislators and policymakers, including at least one member of Governor Murphy’s transition team, are expressing opposition to marijuana legalization. It’s no longer clear that legalization has the support needed to clear the Legislature.”

Pennacchio said that as possible votes on legalization appeared more likely with the new administration taking office, many have started to seriously consider the real potential impacts for the first time.

“It’s clear that once people look in earnest at the negative consequences of marijuana legalization in places like Colorado, it becomes impossible to not imagine those harmful impacts in our own communities in New Jersey,” Pennacchio said. “It’s not all high times as supporters of legalization would have you think.”

Pennacchio pointed in particular to the strong opposition expressed by Bishop Jethro C. James, Jr., a member of the governor’s transition committee for “Law and Justice.”

“As a member of the gubernatorial transition team, it must have been difficult for Bishop James to take such a strong stance against marijuana legalization,” added Pennacchio. “I applaud the Bishop for so clearly articulating the dangers of marijuana to young people and communities that already face difficult challenges. I can only hope that Governor Murphy will heed his advice and slow his rush to legalization.”

Among the concerns expressed by Bishop James was a substantial increase in marijuana arrests of African-American (+58%) and Hispanic (+29%) children, and a decrease in arrests of White (-8%) children, reported by the Colorado Department of Public Safety following legalization.

Overall, the report shows that arrests of African-Americans for marijuana-related offenses in Colorado were nearly triple those of Whites in 2014.

Use of marijuana by children aged 12 to 17 in Colorado was found to be 74% higher

Governor Phil Murphy

than the national average in the two years after legalization.

“For those who claim a ‘social justice’ benefit will accrue to minority communities as a result of legalization, the data from Colorado seems to indicate otherwise,” added Pennacchio. “If Governor Murphy and other legislators rush continue to rush forward based on anecdotes rather than facts, they’ll likely be surprised by the unexpected harm that results.”

Two Parsippany residents on Dean’s List at Roger Williams University

Frank L. Cahill
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Two Parsippany residents on Dean’s List at Roger Williams University

PARSIPPANY — Two Parsippany residents have been named to the Spring 2017 Dean’s List at Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete twelve or more credits per semester and earn a GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List that semester.

Lauren Calabrese

Lauren Calabrese, is a graduate of Parsippany High School, Class of 2015, currently majoring in Creative Writing.

Nick Gaudio

Nicholas Gaudio, a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, Class of 2014, currently majoring in Engineering.

About RWU: With campuses on the coast of Bristol and in the heart of Providence, R.I., Roger Williams University is a forward-thinking private university committed to strengthening society through engaged teaching and learning.

At RWU, small classes, direct access to faculty and guaranteed opportunity for real-world projects ensure that its nearly 4,000 undergraduates – along with hundreds of law students, graduate students and adult learners – graduate with the ability to think critically along with the practical skills that today’s employers demand. Roger Williams is leading the way in American higher education, confronting the most pressing issues facing students and families – increasing costs, rising debt and job readiness.

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