PARSIPPANY — Macrosoft Inc, has been awarded Gold Certification in the Microsoft Partner Program for the 12th successive year. Microsoft Gold Competency signifies that Macrosoft is an expert in Microsoft technologies and the organization is focused on providing world-class services to its clients on all initiatives.
Owning a Gold Certified Partner status means Macrosoft has access to Microsoft Support 24/7 and is committed to the latest Microsoft technology. “We are extremely proud of sustaining our Gold status for more than a decade in the Microsoft Partner Program. This prominent status provides us access to even more tools to drive results for our clients,” said Dr. Ronald Mueller, CEO of Macrosoft. “The rich set of benefits include Microsoft-related products or services, the direct training and support we receive from Microsoft, which enhances Macrosoft’s competitive position in the market while providing more value to our clients.”
Macrosoft Inc, a leading-edge software design and development organization, headquartered at Two Sylvan Way, has maintained Microsoft Gold Partner status for eleven years in a row, with proven competencies. This year, Macrosoft celebrates 26 years of successful engagements and a growing list of over 400 professionals working for more than 50 exceptional clients.
Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, Senator Joe Pennacchio, Amon Sharafi, Chris Leibfred, Patrick Lanigan, Justin Stanton, Tyler Grieco, Assemblyman Jay Webber, PHS Principal Dr. Denis Mulroony
PARSIPPANY — Senator Joe Pennacchio, Assemblyman Jay Webber, and Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce (all R-26) visited Parsippany High School on Wednesday, March 13 to thank the five senior boys who shoveled their neighbor’s driveway after a snowstorm, ensuring she could be safely transported to dialysis amid the weather.
“We are very proud of this group of senior boys and all of the good that they do. Patrick, Tyler, Amon, Justin and Chris (and many of their friends) have made a commitment to service throughout their four years and have had a tremendous impact on our school and community. This instance is indicative of the type of students, leaders and people they are. They are truly pieces of work, and we’ve been lucky to have them here,” said Dr. Denis Mulroony, Principal of Parsippany High School.
Shoveling a neighbor’s driveway may seem like a simple act of kindness, but in this case – it may have very well saved a woman’s life,” Pennacchio said. “We all know the severe injuries one could suffer from as a result of a slip and fall on an icy day. Without the boys’ help, she may have missed her treatment. Parsippany is a stronger community because of their actions.”
Pennacchio, Webber, and DeCroce presented ceremonial resolutions to Justin Stanton, Patrick Lanigan, Chris Leibfred, Tyler Grieco and Amon Sharafi for their good deeds. Their benevolence gained local, state, and national attention.
“These young men set a standard for all of us to live up to,” said Webber (R-Morris). “They selflessly placed the interest of their neighbor above their own, sacrificing sleep and energy so she could receive life-sustaining medical care. Our gratitude was well earned.”
Their neighbor, Natalie Blair, is awaiting a kidney transplant and requires daily dialysis. On March 4 at 4:00 a.m., the five boys cleared 8 inches of snow from her driveway so an ambulance could transport her to her medical appointment.
“You worry when teenagers sneak out of the house at 4 in the morning,” said DeCroce (R-Morris). “These friends weren’t looking for trouble. They went out in the snow to help a person in need who hadn’t even asked for assistance. The world would be a better place if more people cared this much.”
“These ‘snow angels’ displayed true selflessness,” Pennacchio added. “Justin, Patrick, Chris, Tyler, and Amon have proven that it’s always important to help people in need, no matter the weather. On behalf of our entire community and this Legislature, it is my privilege to thank them for setting an example for our entire community – and the nation.”
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Republican Councilmembers Loretta Gragnani, Michael dePierro and Paul Carifi issued a press release opposing Mayor Soriano’s gradual reduction of the township budget’s reliance on utility surplus. Instead, they supported an immediate transfer of nearly $3 million of fiscal liability to Parsippany taxpayers. Indeed, the transfer of any amount of surplus was deemed by Councilwoman Gragnani to be “a non-starter with the Republican Council.”
After eight years of irresponsible management of Parsippany’s budget and utility surplus, Republican Council incumbents have flip-flopped to serve their own election-year needs. Their politically-expedient change of opinion on this issue will leave Parsippany’s taxpayers holding the bag on a 9% tax increase.
Since the beginning of Councilwoman Gragnani’s term in 2016, $8,655,000 has been transferred from the township’s utility surplus in order to balance the budget. Dating back to 2012, with the support of Council Members Carifi and dePierro, $11,660,000 has been transferred from the utility surplus to balance the budget.
These figures confirm that the dependency on using sewer and water utility funding to balance the Township budget was heavily accelerated by the Barberio administration and the all-Republican Councils of that time frame. Along with the unfunded use of zero-percent tax increases in the Mayoral election years of 2013 and 2017, this practice has led to a compounding drain on Parsippany’s fiscal health.
Mayor Soriano stated, “As Mayor, I have been very vocal about the need to eliminate our dependency on the sewer and water utilities to balance our budget. It is a poor fiscal management practice and puts future Township budgets, and thereby our taxpayers, in jeopardy. In 2018, upon taking office, we reduced the use of utility surplus by $245,000, and we did so again in 2019 by $100,000. These were small reductions, but necessary beginning steps forward.”
Speaking directly to the Republican Council members, the Mayor continued, “Should you and your colleagues wish to further reduce the use of utility surplus in the 2019 proposed budget, I am open to that discussion. Your suggested proposal of eliminating the utility surplus to off-set the current fund by $2,855,000 would result in a property tax increase of 9.26% ($175.86 on the average assessed home) – a significant increase that I am very surprised you would propose.”
IHOP Manager Edgar Ortega, Kiwanis Member Scarano-Debrossy and Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Karen DeChristopher
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Member Scarano-Debrossy and Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Karen DeChristopher volunteered their time this morning during Parsippany’s IHOP’s ‘National Pancake Day.”
This year, the restaurant will “Flip it Forward” and raise money for kids in need. Customers will have the ability to donate to help children battling critical illnesses during the promotion. Guests will be able to get their free pancakes until to 7:00 p.m. Offer valid for dine in only.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilman Michael dePierro
PARSIPPANY — The three Republicans on Parsippany Township’s Council voted to slash Democrat Mayor Michael Soriano’s proposed property tax increase by nearly 40% over the objections of the two Council Democrats, protecting township residents already overburdened by the reckless tax and spend Murphy Administration in Trenton.
Councilman Mike dePierro, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. and Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani said Mayor Soriano’s second consecutive tax increase budget demonstrated why Parsippany taxpayers can’t afford to have Democrats take control of Township Council this November.
“Elections have consequences and, unfortunately, the result of a Democratic Mayor in town hall and a Democratic Governor in Trenton is that Parsippany taxpayers are under constant assault,” said Councilman Mike dePierro. “I am proud to say that Paul, Loretta and I stuck together, proposed real spending cuts, and significantly reduced the tax bite in this Democratic budget. It’s clearer than ever that the Republican majority on Council is the only thing standing between residents and massive tax hikes in Parsippany.”
On the heels of his proposed 6% property tax increase budget last year, that Republicans then cut in half, Mayor Michael Soriano proposed a 4.72% property tax increase in this year’s budget and was backed up by the Council’s two Democrats, Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson, who voted against the Republican cuts.
“This administration needs to stop looking at Parsippany taxpayers as an ATM machine for his big government agenda and Hudson County-style patronage hires,” “Elections have consequences and, unfortunately, the result of a Democratic Mayor in town hall and a Democratic Governor in Trenton is that Parsippany taxpayers are under constant assault,” said Council President Carifi, Jr. “We have thirteen positions currently unfilled in township government and government is still functioning just fine. That’s why I made a motion that we not fill those spots, saving taxpayers $862,000 in salaries, benefits and pension payments in the process.”
Councilwoman Gragnani said that on top of Mayor Soriano’s fiscally irresponsible decision to defer $3 million from the water and sewer utility to the general fund – jacking up water rates in the process – another big tax increase budget was a non-starter with the Republican Council.
“Just like Governor Murphy and the Democrats in Trenton, Mayor Soriano apparently thinks local residents aren’t taxed enough and that government is some beast that needs to be fed continually,” said Councilwoman Gragnani. “We disagree. Enough is enough. Government needs to live within its means and stop squeezing taxpayers for every last penny. If the last two years of Murphy and Soriano have shown voters anything, it’s that unchecked Democratic control of our state and town is untenable. It’s critical we maintain a Republican check and balance in Parsippany this November.”
Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy members Mary Ann Coyne, Joan Garbarino, Cathy Cerbo, WCPTH Dr. Seuss Reading Project Chairman, and Ginny Scala present Parsippany Child Day Care Center Director Peggy Rauscher, with Dr. Seuss books. Also pictured are club members Marilyn Zarzycki and Cathy Haney.
PARSIPPANY — Members of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills joined the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) to participate in Read Across America Day this week.
Members kicked of their “Dr. Seuss Celebrations” by reading to the children at the Parsippany Child Day Care Center on February 27. Each reading age child received their own Dr. Seuss Board book version of “Fox in Socks” and books were also donated to the school library. This was made possible through a generous GFWC Literacy Grant the club was awarded.
Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy members Cathy Haney, Ginny Scala, Marilyn Zarzycki and Marilyn Marion present books at Mt. Tabor Library to Librarian Kristen Comeavx
Donations of Dr. Seuss books were made to the Parsippany Library. Dr. Seuss favors were also handed out at the Lake Hiawatha Branch. Dr. Seuss books were donated to Head Start of Morris County, to supplement their library and Dr. Seuss themed favors were also distributed to the children. Dr. Seuss books were also sent to the General Federations of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) for distribution in the Washington, DC area.
One of GFWC’s Seven Grand Initiatives for its 2018-2020 Administration is for clubs to donate Dr. Seuss books to children in need. March 2 is Read Across America Day, a nationwide observation that marks Dr. Seuss’ birthday and encourages children to celebrate reading.
Promoting literacy can be traced back to GFWC’s roots. Read Across America is an opportunity for GFWC clubs to continue the legacy of sharing books and the love of reading with its community.
Proceeds for this, and other educational projects, are made possible by the funds raised at the club’s annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic Fundraiser. This year’s 38th Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic & Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, July 9, at the Knoll Country Club West. Contact Marilyn Z., Tee Off for Education Chairperson, at (973) 539-3703 or [email protected] for more information.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of NJSFWC, which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. General Meetings are held the fourth Monday of each month from September to April at 7:00 p.m. at the Lake Parsippany Rescue & Recovery, 100 Centerton Drive. For more information e-mail the club at [email protected], click here or follow the club on FACEBOOK.
PARSIPPANY — Susan G. Komen North Jersey announced that Dun & Bradstreet, Steven Bitterman, Principal, Gensler and Summit Medical Group will be recognized at its 2019 Pink Tie Party on Friday, March 22, at The Grove in Cedar Grove. This year’s signature event, chaired by Michael Karlis of Bridgewater will also feature special guest Amy Robach, Co-Anchor for ABC News’ 20/20 and author of The New York Times bestseller BETTER. Komen North Jersey is delivering a strong message of HOPE with this year’s fundraiser—hope that the funds they raise for life-saving community programs and breakthrough national research will help get them closer to their vision, a world without breast cancer.
“This year’s honorees all have a long-standing commitment to the community and to Komen North Jersey,” says Kelly E. Nagle, Executive Director of Komen North Jersey. “Each has consistently demonstrated a level of engagement that is remarkably comprehensive and multi-faceted. They not only support our mission financially, but they embrace our mission by infusing a passion for the fight against breast cancer within their corporate and personal networks. We are deeply grateful for all they do to help us bring hope to the women and men in our communities.”
Amy Robach
As Co-Anchor for ABC News’ 20/20 and Breaking News Anchor for Good Morning America, Amy Robach has traveled nationally and internationally to cover major news events, and has interviewed countless newsmakers and celebrities. But the most difficult and illuminating journey of her life was when she said the words “I have breast cancer” on live television in November of 2013. Just weeks earlier, her producers had asked her to get an on-air mammogram to highlight Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Her first instinct was to say no—there was no history of breast cancer in her family, and she was only forty years old. She agreed, realizing that she might save a life, but never imagined that the life she saved would be her own: tests revealed malignant tumors in her breast, and she immediately underwent a bilateral mastectomy, followed by six months of chemotherapy treatments.
In her New York Times bestseller BETTER: How I Let Go of Control, Held On To Hope, and Found Joy in My Darkest Hour, Robach speaks candidly about how her illness affected her family life and her marriage, tapped into her deepest fears and strengths, and transformed her in ways she never could have imagined. With honesty, humility and humor, Amy connects with those who have struggled with any kind of sudden adversity, and shares valuable wisdom about the power of the human spirit to endure the worst—and find the way to better. “When I finished my last round of chemo, I realized that I was joining the ranks of 2.8 million U.S. women who are breast cancer survivors,” says Robach. “I plan on living each day to the very fullest, thankful and grateful. And I want to encourage all the women and men out there who are still in the thick of it, who have yet to fight this fight: you can do it; you can get through this, one step at a time.”
Corporate Honoree Dun & Bradstreet first came on board as a partner for the Affiliate’s annual Race for the Cure in 2010. Since then, the company’s engagement has grown in its depth and commitment to the Komen North Jersey mission. They have provided significant financial support for the Affiliate’s major fundraisers, and the level of participation by their employees in their charitable endeavors is exceptional. Their Race team, For My Daughter, created in honor of Dun & Bradstreet employee Marcy Prendes, a 10-year breast cancer survivor, has been one of the top Race teams every year, and employees, friends and family members have collectively raised more than $150,000. The Company’s employees also volunteer on Komen North Jersey committees and participate in numerous events including the annual Pink Tie Party (for which Dun & Bradstreet has been a major sponsor since 2015).
Michele Caselnova
Michele Caselnova, Chief of Staff to the President and Chief Communications Officer for Dun & Bradstreet, has been a member of the Board of Trustees since July 2013, serving as Vice President in 2016, Interim President in 2017, and currently as President. She also served as the Pink Tie Party Co-Chair in 2017 and 2018. In addition to its direct support of Komen North Jersey’s work in local communities, Dun & Bradstreet embraces the importance of breast health education and offers Breast Health Education events in the workplace on a regular basis. “Dun & Bradstreet and its employees have happily supported Susan G, Komen North Jersey with time, talent and fund raising to further life-saving community programs and breakthrough national research,” says Caselnova. “We thank our employees for their support and for joining the Komen North Jersey team on its journey to realize a world without breast cancer.”
This year’s Medical Honoree, Summit Medical Group, New Jersey’s premier multi-specialty medical practice, provides patients with more convenient and affordable care for every stage of life with all ancillary services, including wellness, cancer treatment, disease management, surgical services, behavioral health and management and support for chronic conditions. SMG has sponsored a Komen North Jersey Race for the Cure team since the Race’s inception in 2008.
Summit Medical Group: Komen Race 2018
Over the years, SMG’s team has become the Race’s largest, boasting more than 100 participants in 2018. SMG has made significant contributions to Komen North Jersey with support for the Race for the Cure, the annual Pink Tie Party, and the Women’s Wellness Expo. They also demonstrate a deep and genuine commitment to the communities they serve, providing access to breast care, treating patients every day, and helping people fight breast cancer.
With the talent and dedication of its providers and a new state-of-the art 130,000-square-foot outpatient cancer facility in Florham Park, SMG is committed to bringing the highest level of cancer care to patients in northern New Jersey. SMG provides comprehensive cancer care including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, interventional radiology, infusion, imaging and access to clinical trials. “Over the years, Summit Medical Group has mobilized teams to raise significant funds for breast cancer,” says Jeffrey Le Benger, MD, Chairman and CEO of Summit Medical Group. “We share Komen North Jersey’s goals to bring attention to the fight against breast cancer, celebrate breast cancer survivorship and honor those who have battled courageously.”
Steve Bitterman Gensler
Individual Honorees are chosen for their exceptional volunteerism and enduring commitment to the mission of the Komen North Jersey organization. This year’s Individual Honoree, Steven Bitterman, Studio Director, Principal and Northeast Regional Life Sciences Practice Leader for Gensler in Morristown, has a very personal connection to breast cancer: his wife Robin is a seven-year breast cancer survivor. Bitterman says that his wife’s diagnosis redefined the fight against breast cancer for him. His company, Gensler, had launched their first Susan G. Komen Rally for the Cure golf tournament in 2006, but had taken a hiatus from the event prior to Bitterman joining the company in 2009. When he heard about it, he advocated strongly to bring back their Rally for the Cure. “It wasn’t just because I’m a golfer,” says Bitterman. “My wife is a survivor, and I believe that my grandmother also had breast cancer. I wanted to do something to make a difference; this disease affects so many people.”
Since the first Gensler Rally for the Cure, the company has produced nine events that to date have raised nearly $340,000 for the two New Jersey Susan G. Komen Affiliates. Bitterman encourages staff, clients, friends and family to participate, and the event continues to grow. Last year, there were more than 200 registered participants and the event raised a record $65,000. “I’m truly honored to be recognized,” says Bitterman. “But I don’t do this alone; it has become an incredible team effort. Everyone in the company stands behind it because we are all affected by breast cancer in one way or another.”
The honorees, of course, are the “stars” of the evening, but it wouldn’t be a party without the requisite fun-factor and fabulous opportunities for giving. Elegant cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be a prelude to an exquisitely-prepared dinner, intermingled with a lot of dancing to the sounds of Tribeca Rhythm and DJ Sizzling Sounds. But the real essence of the Pink Tie Party is about giving generously, and there will be lots of chances for guests to “be part of the cure.” There’s an abundance of coveted silent auction items, and pre-event bidding is available online at bidpal.net/ptp for those who would like to get a jump on those bids.
All in all, it promises to be a memorable, “feel good” kind of night, thanks in no small part to the generosity of this year’s Pink Tie Party sponsors: Dun & Bradstreet and TAPinto, (Funding the Cures), Summit Medical Group and RWJBarnabas Health (Partner in the Promise), Atlantic Health, C.R. Bard, Inc., Carol Delia & Kate Flannery, The Harbison Family, Pfizer, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Wakefern Food Corporation/ShopRite Supermarkets (Pledging Hope).
PARSIPPANY — IHOP, 792 Route 46 West, will be giving out free short stack of buttermilk pancakes on Tuesday, March 12 to celebrate National Pancake Day.
This year, the restaurant will “Flip it Forward” and raise money for kids in need. Customers will have the ability to donate to help children battling critical illnesses during the promotion. Guests will be able to get their free pancakes from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Offer valid for dine in only.
Every year IHOP gives away free pancakes around National Pancake Day to celebrate the day. The pancakes are completely free with no purchase required, although a donation to Children’s Miracle Network is encouraged.
When you visit your local IHOP for National Pancake Day at IHOP, you’ll get a free short stack (3) of their famous buttermilk pancakes.
Although not required, you will be asked to give a donation to the Children’s Miracle Network in any amount you’d like in exchange for your pancakes. This money goes to local hospitals in your area and provides life-saving medical treatments and procedures for children in need.
Their 2019 goal is to reach $5 million in donations, and all donations for the pancakes will go straight to the charity.
Some of the restaurants will also be inviting guests to make a donation to get a wall icon of the Children’s Miracle balloon to publicly pledge support to Children’s Miracle Networks. Some of the restaurants will be giving a discount coupon to be used on a future business with the purchase of a wall icon.
The annual IHOP National Pancake Days have been going on for 13 years with more than $30 million being donated to organizations like Children’s Miracle Network, Shriners Hospitals for Children, and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member Alan Golub, Esq, Nicolas Limanov, Frank Cahill and Jennifer Peel, M&T Bank
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed new member Jennifer Peel, M&T Bank. M&T Bank is located at 240 Baldwin Road.
Board Members Alan Golub, Esq., Nicolas Limanov, Frank Cahill presented a membership plaque and welcomed Jennifer during a recent breakfast meeting at Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce offices.
M&T Bank is one of the top 20 full-service U.S.-based commercial banks, with 17,000 employees and a long history of community-focused banking. Founded in 1856, M&T provides commercial, retail, business, investment, mortgage and professional banking services through more than 750 branches and 1,800 ATMs throughout New York, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Connecticut, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia. With a longstanding tradition of careful, conservative and consistent management, M&T is one of the best performing regional banks in the nation.
• Of the largest 100 banks operating in 1983, only 23 remain today. Among the remaining, M&T ranks 1st in stock price growth
• During the financial crisis, M&T was one of just two commercial banks out of 20 in the S&P 500 that did not reduce its dividend
• M&T has been profitable for 166 consecutive quarters—more than 41 straight years
You can reach Jennifer Peel by calling (973) 402-5633 or by clicking here to email.
For more information on Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce click here.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents and volunteers that provides education, information and networking opportunities to the Parsippany Area.
Tyler Grieco, Chris Leibfred, Justin Stanton, Patrick Lanigan and Amon Sharafi
PARSIPPANY — On Friday, March 8, students from Parsippany High School enjoyed a complimentary meal at their local Applebee’s as a reward for their actions the previous week.
On Monday, March 4, Seniors Tyler Grieco, Chris Leibfred, Justin Stanton, Patrick Lanigan and Amon Sharafi relinquished the extra hours of sleep they might have gotten due to a Snow Day school closure to shovel out a neighbor who had a medical treatment at 6:00 a.m.
The boys cleared away the eight inches of snow as the sun rose, and their neighbor was able to get to her treatment. Applebee’s of Parsippany was happy to treat the valiant young men to a delicious dinner as a thank-you for their execution of this good deed.
PARSIPPANY — As the sign says on the front of Bed Bath & Beyond, they will be closing since their lease expired. This is the only area Bed Bath & Beyond location that is closing. Currently they are having storewide sales.
The store hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The East Hanover store located at 180 Route 10 West, has store hours 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Bed Bath & Beyond says their lease is expiring
According to store officials, the Parsippany location is expected to remain open through mid-June, although an exact closing date has not been set.
There is also a Rockaway, Totowa and Kinnelon store all located within ten miles of the Parsippany location.
Earlier this year, Modell’s Sporting Goods also closed in the Arlington Shopping Plaza, although the location is still listed on their website. K-Mart closed in November 2017.
Good Year closed leaving 7,000 square feet vacant, although Paul Miller has a temporary lease on that location.
According to signs in the window at 772 Route 46, former ShopRite Liquors location, AdvantEdge Builders will be coming soon.
Advantage Edge Builders is coming soon to Arlington Plaza Shopping CenterSigns in the window of the former ShopRite Liquors, 772 Route 46, Arlington Shopping Plaza
The property is owned by Garden Commercial Properties.
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon and Assemblyman Anthony Bucco
BOONTON — The room was crowded with more than 150 supporters at Sokol Hall in Boonton on Monday, March 4, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon began his campaign for re-election alongside fellow Boonton native, Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco.
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Freeholder Deborah Smith and Assemblyman Anthony Bucco
Gannon grew up in Boonton Township in an Irish and Polish Catholic family with two brothers and one sister, who were all raised by his father, mother and grandmother. His passion for law enforcement came from his father, who was a New York City Police Detective. Gannon graduated Boonton High School where he played sports and also was a member of the Boonton Township Fire Service.
Gannon earned his Associate’s degree in Law Enforcement from County College of Morris, and then his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from William Paterson University. After graduation, Gannon started out as a Patrolman in his hometown of Boonton Township, and then Boonton, followed by service as Deputy Chief of Investigations at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI’s elite Joint Terrorism Task Force and Morris County-based Novartis Pharmaceuticals, where he retired as the Global Head of Security Risk.
Gannon’s daughter, Kate, introduced her dad to the standing room only audience
Gannon was married to his wife, Lisa, for 26 years before losing her in 2010 after a courageous battle against Multiple Sclerosis. Jim and Lisa had one daughter, Kate who, along with her husband Matt, are parents to son Luca. Jim is a lifelong resident of Morris County and lives in Boonton.
Parsippany resident Patrick Minutillo, Sheriff James Gannon and Assemblyman Anthony BuccoAmy Bucco with her granddaughter during the joint announcementBucco was introduced at the kick-off by Bernardsville resident Christine Cerza, “who met him after years of fighting with health insurance companies on behalf of her daughter Carly who, because of a medical complication, requires around-the-clock care from private-duty nurses.”Anthony M. Bucco making his announcement for re-election, with his family looking onFreeholders John Kirkus, Debbie Smith, Sheriff James Gannon, Freeholders Kathy DeFillippo and Tom MastrangeloJoseph Bock, Esq., Andrew DeLaney, Esq. with baby Skylar DeLaney and Kelsey Wagner
PARSIPPANY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) sent a letter to Secretary of the Army Mark Esper urging support for programs and facilities at Picatinny Arsenal in Rockaway and Jefferson Township, the Joint Center of Excellence for Armaments and Munitions.
The critical work performed by more than 6,000 people at Picatinny directly enhances the U.S. military’s capabilities and our soldiers’ safety. It is also the largest employer in Representative Sherrill’s District. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Representative Sherrill will continue to ensure the Army has the budget it needs for Picatinny to provide needed capabilities for our national security.
Text of letter below:
The Honorable Mark T. Esper
March 7, 2019
Secretary of the Army
1400 Defense Pentagon
Washington, DC 20301-1400
Dear Secretary Esper,
It was great to meet you last month to discuss the Army’s priorities for Fiscal Year 2020. I am aware of the Army’s proposal to shift more than $31 billion towards six modernization priorities, including the Long-Range Precision Fires (LRPF) mission at Picatinny Arsenal.
I urge you to support the programs and related facilities and equipment required by the Armaments Center of the Combat Capabilities Development Command to accomplish the LRPF mission.First, elevating the LRPF mission as you have planned should be complemented by an investment in the specific facilities that support this Army modernization priority.
I am proud of the ongoing work at Picatinny Arsenal on the Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA), a major component of the Army’s effort to increase lethality within the LRPF mission. I urge you to take every opportunity to augment and enhance the facilities that support this program.Second, I recently met with Brigadier General Abramson who briefed me on how the Army garrison works to support the numerous tenants at Picatinny Arsenal and how they would benefit from a new Access Control Point at the main gate. Army research facilities, such as Picatinny Arsenal rely on cooperative research and development occurring both on and off the installation.
I respectfully request that you give all due consideration to the $24 million needed for this military construction project to provide greater security for the highly-skilled workforce and military families.Finally, as you are aware, the Fiscal Year 2019 Defense Appropriations Act provided $41 million to build a Munitions Disassembly Complex at Picatinny Arsenal. I strongly oppose any reprogramming request to shift these funds away from their authorized and intended purpose.I look forward to working with you on the Army’s modernization priorities.
Titus the Titan, the County College of Morris mascot, flips hamburgers in practice for the college’s upcoming Titan Weekend
MORRIS COUNTY — Get your dancing or running shoes on and celebrate with County College of Morris (CCM). To commemorate 50 years of serving the Morris County community, CCM will be hosting a Titan Weekend, a fun-filled extravaganza from May 3 through May 5, with something for everyone. The weekend celebration will include a Titan Ball, CCM’s mascot Titus the Titan’s Birthday and Titan Trot 5K.
Registration is now open for the Titan Trot 5K, which will take place Sunday, May 5, on the CCM Randolph campus, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. USAFT certified, the Titan Trot 5K consists both of a run and walk. Participants can register online by clicking here with a registration fee of $25.00. The day of the 5K, registration begins at 7:00 a.m. and the race and walk start at 9:00 a.m.
On Friday, May 3, the CCM Foundation will hold a Titan Ball, a Greek mythology inspired gala at the Hanover Marriott, in Whippany, complete with Adonis and Aphrodite appetizers and elixirs, and ‘Medusa’ dining and dancing. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.
On Saturday, May 4, CCM will celebrate Titus’ Birthday, to honor the college’s mascot and provide the community with a free family-fun-filled event, featuring music, food and special programming. The Titus’ Birthday celebration will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., on the college’s campus.
“We are grateful for the support of the Morris County community over the last 50 years and very proud of our more than 50,000 alumni, our partnerships with the business community and the cultural events we offer for personal enrichment,” said President Anthony J. Iacono. “Our Titan Weekend is an opportunity for the public to join with our alumni, students and employees to celebrate CCM’s five decades of success.”
Since its founding, CCM has grown into one of the state’s most recognized community colleges. The college consistently has one of the highest combined graduation and transfer rates in the state and is highly recognized for the strength of its engineering and healthcare programs. CCM also is the only community college in New Jersey to be named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. In addition, PayScale has rated CCM number one in New Jersey based on the earnings of its graduates.
Over five decades, CCM has educated tens of thousands of students, who have positively impacted the local community, region and beyond. A 2017 study by Emsi, a leading provider of economic impact reports, found the college’s annual contribution to the Morris County economy equates to more than $484 million. Today, CCM is recognized for its high-quality educational offerings, which include transfer, career, workforce development and lifelong learning.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer D. Roman, along with other area law enforcement agencies, had a great time last night talking to all the children and families at Mennen Arena who attended the New Jersey Coalition 4 Education and Positive Choices Law Enforcement Night.
This event the youngsters got to see firsthand how law enforcement officers are positive influences in our community. Law Enforcement Night has been known to further develop these relationships often providing career opportunities for teens who might not have ever considered such a path.
The equipment on display at this event is known to even awe adults. Never will one see such an array of machinery like this at one location. Kids were able to ride the horses provided by the Park Police, ambulances, emergency vehicles of every shape and size, wear riot gear, try on handcuffs and co mingle with the law enforcement community in a fun atmosphere.
The important aspect to remember is that law enforcement is trained to make these kids feel safe and important. Confidence and self-esteem go a long way in helping a child say no to his peers when the time arises.
East Hanover Police Officers Rob Jordan and Jeff Della Piazza with Robert PelusoParsippany-Troy Hills Police Department participated in New Jersey Coalition 4 Education and Positive Choices Law Enforcement NightMorris County Park Police Patrolman Nick Saleeba and Patrolman Tony BrunoneHanover Township Police Patrolmen S. Manney and J. GrawhlerMorris County Sheriff Officer Somerville and Cap. BertelliMorris County Prosecutor Detectives Muhammad Thomas and Ashley GonzalezParsippany Resident Carol Tiesi, Michele Sylvan, Hanover Township Councilman Thomas Ace Gallagher, Robert Peluso, Ildiko Peluso and Robert Peluso, Jr.Morgan Park, Kidz World DentalMatt Burton, Retro Fitness WhippanyMichele Sylvan, William Schievella, Bergen County Sheriff’s Office and Hanover Township Councilman Thomas Ace GallagherMorris County Park Police Disaster Response TeamMorris County Park Police Horses
BOONTON —A body found in the Boonton Reservoir Sunday, March 3 was identified as a local man reported missing last year by local police, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office said Thursday. The body was recovered around 2:00 p.m.
Sean Stohl, 53, was reported missing by the Boonton Police Department last November 21, and was considered to be “endangered” due to pre-existing medical conditions. (Click here to read related story)
His body was found on the Parsippany side of the reservoir Sunday, the prosecutor’s office said.
Area residents watched Parsippany Rescue and Recovery from the Route 202 bridge crossing the reservoir as the body was removed from the scene.
Colleen McArdle, adjunct faculty member at County College of Morris, dancer and choreographer
PARSIPPANY — Through the initiative of Adjunct Professor and Choreographer Colleen McArdle, Riverdale, six dance students at County College of Morris (CCM), including Parsippany’s Courtney Crerand, will have the opportunity to perform on a New York City stage this month.
Colleen McArdle, adjunct faculty member at County College of Morris, dancer and choreographer
The dancers will be performing a new piece, “Once,” choreographed by McArdle as part of the HATCH Presenting Series. The HATCH series provides a forum for choreographers to investigate new work, present work in process and engage in dialogue with the audience. Performances take place at The Works Studio, 131 West 24th Street, New York City. The CCM dancers will perform on Saturday, March 30, at 8:00 p.m. Tickets, available at the door, are $20.00 general admission and $15.00 for students.
The CCM students who will be dancing in the performance are Kara Byrnes, of Andover; Noelle Cappuzzo, of Succasunna; Courtney Crerand, of Lake Hiawatha; Jessica Giraldo, of Wharton; Grace Logue, of Vernon; and Sabrina Olivieri, of Long Valley.
“I have participated in this program several times and am delighted at the opportunity to return,” says McArdle. “This is a wonderful chance for our students to have the real-world experience of performing in a professional NYC venue for dance.”
To learn more about the Dance Program at CCM click here.
TRENTON — In a state notorious for the worst business environment in the nation, job-creators can use all the help they can get. The Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee acknowledged the importance of business, passing a Republican resolution (SJR72/AJR139) establishing New Jersey Economic Development Day.
The measure, sponsored by Assemblymen Edward Thomson and Sean Kean, and Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce designates the second Monday of May for the annual pro-business observance.
“It’s time for Trenton to stop taxing business into submission,” said Thomson (R-Monmouth). “This resolution is a reminder that by investing in business owners, we can grow small companies and stimulate job creation. By linking government development programs with private-sector stimulus efforts, the state can craft new efficiencies within existing tax revenue.”
Kean said New Jersey can support business by better utilizing its many competitive advantages.
“The business environment in this state is brutal,” said Kean (R-Monmouth). “A variety of incentives, workforce development and economic programs are available to help employers, but we are calling on state and local governments to do more to evaluate these programs to maximize benefits and eliminate waste.”
“Economic Development Day will shine a spotlight on the state’s pro-business efforts,” said DeCroce (R-Morris). “We can increase our return on investment by combining and leveraging economic development funding. Coordinated efforts will provide jobs, increase revenue and improve New Jersey’s fiscal health.”
The resolution passed the Senate unanimously in September.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers received a report over the countywide radio system at 7:59 p.m. on Saturday, March 2, of a vehicle striking the divider on Route 10 West in Hanover Township.
Patrol Sergeant R. McGinnis and Officer J. Garza located the 2018 Ford Expedition driving slowly in the center lane in the area of 2980 Route 10 West.
A traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle and they made contact with the driver, Mr. Darren James, 55, Bronx, NY. The Officer’s also observed that the vehicles front driver’s side tire was missing, according to Parsippany Police Sergeant Brian Conover.
After a brief investigation, Mr. James was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated. He was transported to Parsippany Police Headquarters where officers also found him to be in possession of suspected heroin and other CDS. He was processed and charged with one count of ThirdDegree Possession of CDS (Heroin), one count of ThirdDegree Possession of CDS (Oxycodone), one count of ThirdDegree Possession of CDS (Xanax), one count of ThirdDegree Possession of CDS (Ambien), Driving While Intoxicated, a Traffic Offense, Reckless Driving, a Traffic Offense, Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle, a Traffic Offense and Hazardous Tires, a Traffic Offense.
He was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility and was subsequently released after his initial court appearance on his own recognizance in accordance with the Bail Reform Law.
Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrol Officer R. Taylor observed a 2011 Toyota Camry commit a moving violation and conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of Old Bloomfield Avenue and New Road at 7:11 p.m. on Saturday, March 2.
Officer Taylor made contact with the driver, Mr. Edilver Acosta, 37, New York, New York, and detected the odor of raw marijuana coming from inside the vehicle.
After a brief investigation, Mr. Acosta was placed under arrest for possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana and transported to Police Headquarters for processing. While there, he was charged with Possession of Less than 50 Grams of Marijuana, a Disorderly Persons Offense and Driving While Suspended, a Traffic Offense, Possession of CDS in a Motor Vehicle, a Traffic Offense, Maintenance of Lamps, a Traffic Offense, and Disregarding a Traffic Control Signal, a Traffic Offense.
He was released on his own recognizance pending his court date.
Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
