Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco, center, receives the NJMEP’s honor roll award on Friday, October 5, from Dr. John Kennedy, CEO of NJMEP; Michele Siekerka, CEO of NJBIA; and Frank Robinson, vice president of government affairs at NJBIA
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program has named Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco to its honor roll for supporting manufacturing and vocations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics — known as the STEM fields.
A member of the bipartisan legislative manufacturing caucus, Bucco received the award today at the organization’s National Manufacturing Day event in Franklin Township, Somerset County. Bucco has sponsored several bills to help revitalize the industry, including giving tax credits to businesses that hire and retain employees and purchase steel and aluminum. He also sponsored legislation creating the Red Tape Review Commission to reduce burdensome regulations.
“Our economy was built on factories and foundries that produced textiles, iron, steel, pottery and glass that once made the state the economic engine of the northeast,” said Bucco (R-Morris). “Today, a new generation of manufacturers are continuing the legacy, but there is a lot more we can do to help the industry expand and create new opportunities for growth. I am honored to receive this award.”
Manufacturing is a $40 billion industry in New Jersey, with more than 10,000 companies employing an estimated 360,000 people.
NJMEP created the honor roll two years ago to acknowledge state and federal officials and educators who have supported the state’s manufacturers in various ways. It is a private, not–for-profit organization concerned with improving the profitability and competitiveness of New Jersey’s manufacturers by enhancing productivity and efficiencies, reducing costs, and improving employee performance.
PARSIPPANY — Living Waters Church in partnership with the Atlantic Health System will hold a lecture and discussion about Medical Decisions on Saturday, October 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Joseph F. Fennelly, MD will be Keynote Speaker.
Dr. Joseph Fennelly is nationally recognized for his expertise on bioethics, end-of-life care, and why conversations matter.
Join for an interactive lecture and discussion about:
Life sustaining treatments
Palliative and hospice care
How to talk to your doctor and significant others
How to choose a healthcare proxy
Shared decision-making before a medical crisis occurs
Registration is free and light refreshments will be served. Living Waters Church is located at 649 Vail Road.
Click here to register or contact Mary Rich at (973) 626-1072. Walk-ins are welcome. Sponsored by Living Waters Church in partnership with the Atlantic Health System
MORRIS COUNTY — Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced that two men who were arrested last year in the multi-agency child protection initiative “Operation Safety Net” pleaded guilty to distributing child pornography on the internet.
Zachary S. Brawer, 32, Lincoln Park, pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree distribution of child pornography before Superior Court Judge Thomas J. Critchley Jr. in Morris County. Under the plea agreement, the state will recommend that Brawer be sentenced to five years in state prison, including 2½ years of parole ineligibility. He will be required to register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law and will be subject to parole supervision for life.
A special agent of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) monitoring a peer-to-peer network downloaded numerous files of child pornography from a shared folder at an IP address that was traced to Brawer. HSI-Newark, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Lincoln Park Police Department executed a search warrant at Brawer’s residence and arrested him on July 18, 2017. They seized his laptop computer, which contained over 100 files of child pornography, including more than 20 hours of video files. Brawer is scheduled to be sentenced on October 5.
“We will continue our collaborative and proactive efforts to arrest child pornography offenders, as long as children continue to be sexually abused to create these vile materials and offenders continue to re-victimize those children by distributing their images on the internet,” said Attorney General Grewal. “These crimes inflict terrible harm on the most vulnerable members of our society.”
Gregory Piszczek, 36, of Woodbridge, N.J., pleaded guilty to charges of distribution of child pornography (2nd degree) and possession of over 100 files of child pornography (3rd degree) before Superior Court Judge Benjamin S. Bucca Jr. in Middlesex County. Under the plea agreement, the state will recommend that Piszczek be sentenced to five years in state prison, including 2 ½ years of parole ineligibility. He will be required to register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law and will be subject to parole supervision for life.
Piszczek, who was employed as an IT professional, was arrested on August 3, 2017, by members of the New Jersey Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. ICAC Task Force members executed a search warrant at his residence after detectives of the Division of Criminal Justice, while monitoring a peer-to-peer file sharing network, downloaded multiple files of child pornography from a shared folder at an IP address traced to Piszczek. Computer devices seized from Piszczek contained over 4,000 videos and images of child pornography. He is scheduled to be sentenced on November 30.
Deputy Attorney General Marie McGovern prosecuted Piszczek and Deputy Attorney General Thomas Huynh prosecuted Brawer for the Division of Criminal Justice Financial & Computer Crimes Bureau.
“By seeking lengthy prison sentences – including mandatory minimum terms without parole – we send a message that we will prosecute these offenders aggressively using New Jersey’s tough child pornography laws,” said Director Veronica Allende of the Division of Criminal Justice. “Protecting innocent children from this type of sexual exploitation is a critical mission of our Division and its partners.”
“Predators like this need to know that interagency cooperation ensures that such heinous activities like this are being monitored 24 x 7,” said Brian Michael, Special Agent in Charge for HSI, Newark. “The expert investigative skills that HSI brings to the forefront helped close the loop on this individual, bringing him to much deserved justice.”
Piszczek and Brawer were among 79 child predators and child pornography offenders arrested in “Operation Safety Net,” a nine-month, multi-agency child protection operation conducted in 2017 by the New Jersey Regional ICAC Task Force, which is led by the New Jersey State Police and includes the Division of Criminal Justice, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, all 21 County Prosecutors’ Offices, and many other state, county and local law enforcement agencies. Ten alleged “hands-on” offenders were arrested, including eight New Jersey men, as well as men in California and Indiana who allegedly tried to have children transported interstate from New Jersey for them to sexually assault.
The cases are being prosecuted for the Division of Criminal Justice Financial & Computer Crimes Bureau under the supervision of Bureau Chief Julia S. Glass. Attorney General Grewal commended the detectives, agents and officers who investigated for the Division of Criminal Justice, HSI-Newark, the U.S Postal Inspection Service, Lincoln Park Police Department and New Jersey ICAC Task Force.
Attorney General Grewal and Director Allende urged anyone with information about the distribution of child pornography on the internet – or about suspected improper contact by unknown persons communicating with children via the internet or possible exploitation or sexual abuse of children – to contact the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Tipline at 888-648-6007.
PARSIPPANY — The Friends of the Parsippany Library’s and Woman’s Club of Parsippany’s September 22 Storybook Breakfast raised over $800.00 for the Parsippany Library. The event included a continental breakfast served by storybook characters, a children’s book sale, raffle for book-themed prizes, and a special storytime and craft by author Tara Lazar.
Volunteers dressed as characters including the Man in the Yellow Hat, Miss Frizzle, Pete the Cat, and Pinkalicious helped serve the continental breakfast that included donations from Udi’s, Lifeway Kefir, Cream-o-Land Dairy and Starbucks.
New Jersey resident and award-winning author Tara Lazar read her book Little Red Gliding Hood and helped the children in attendance create their own Little Red crafts. Attendees also learned about as a typical day in the life of an author.
Cookie Monster also made an appearance, inviting the children to enjoy milk and cookies after the storytime.
Volunteers from both sponsoring organizations as well as local Girl Scouts members, Students in Action volunteers from Parsippany Hills High School, and individuals from the Parsippany community came together to put on this event.
This event was also made possible by sponsorships from Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Wegmans, and Springboard Therapy.
Applebee’s was the first sponsor to sign on and Wegmans is a returning sponsor, having previously supported an anniversary gala and Bollywood Night event that benefited the library. Springboard Therapy rounds out the sponsorships and reflects the event’s focus on children.
Springboard Therapy was created with a vision to provide a safe, fun and respectful environment where children who struggle with a variety of developmental and sensory processing difficulties can thrive and build skills, confidence and a positive sense of self.
To learn more about how you can contribute to the growth of Parsippany’s libraries and community, visit the Friends of the Parsippany Library website by clicking here and the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills by clicking here.
PARSIPPANY — Nicholas “Nick” James Cerbo, 86, died on Thursday, October 4, 2018 at Morristown Medical Center.
Nick was born in Boonton on December 7, 1931 and was the son of Salvatore and Stefanina (Perrotta) Cerbo, Italian immigrants. His family moved to Parsippany when he was six years old. Nick graduated from Boonton High School in 1949 at a time when Parsippany didn’t have a high school. He attended Boys State in his junior year.
Nick was the owner of Cerbo Lumber & Hardware which was started by his family in 1948 and proudly celebrates its 70th anniversary this year.
Nick had a ready smile and was a friend to all. He loved to read. He enjoyed antique cars and trucks. He took pride in giving tours of the lumber yard to school students and Boy Scout troops and has sponsored many Eagle Scout projects.
Nick was active member of his community. He loved local history and hosting talks about the early days in Parsippany.
He was a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, and an inactive charter member of the Parsippany Elks. His business is a member of both the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and Montville Chamber of Commerce. He previously sat on the Montville branch Advisory Board of Lakeland Bank and was a long-time member of the Morris County School of Technology Building Trades Advisory Board.
Nick was a founding and active member of the Morris County Organ Transplant Group, having received a life-saving heart transplant in 1996. Nick had one of the first portable LVADs at New York Presbyterian Hospital. Both surgeries were performed by Dr. Mehmet Oz. He was a proud NJ Sharing Network Ambassador.
Nick was the Parsippany Rotary Outstanding Businessman in 1990, with his brother Rocco, and Rotary Citizen of the year in 1993. His business was a finalist in the Rothman Institute of entrepreneurial studies family business of the year. He received the Good Scout Award from Patriots Path Boy Scouts Council, was a UNICO Man of the Year, Italian American Man of the Year and received the key to the township of Parsippany. Nick was awarded a silver life membership in the PBA by the Parsippany Police Department in 1971. Nick was also NJ Lumberman’s Association Lumberman of the Year in 2006.
Nick is pre-deceasd by his brother, Rocco Cerbo, and his sisters, Filomena A. Cerbo and Anna R. Detaranto.
Survivors include his loving wife of 48 years, Margaret Mary (nee-Cahill); his daughter Catherine “Cathy” Mary Cerbo; Nick is also survived by many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, and numerous friends.
Visitation is at Par-Troy Funeral Home, 95 Parsippany Road, on Monday, October 8, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Graveside Service at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at Saint Mary Cemetery, 371 South Main Street, Wharton.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his memory to the NJ Sharing Network Foundation, 691 Central Avenue, New Providence, NJ 07974.
Tyler Cerbo with WDHA's Terrie Carr and eight month old Fox Face (male)
PARSIPPANY — Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouses held a “Pet Adoption Day” on Saturday, October 6. St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center in Madison brought a dozen adoptable puppies to the event. Terrie Carr and Team was on-site, and visitors had a chance to win tickets to WDHA’s Naughty Or Nice Ball featuring Breaking Benjamin!
St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center is dedicated to the humane treatment of animals. We believe in and provide services that support the human-animal bond and seek to foster an environment in which people respect all living creatures.
For more information on how to adopt any of these pets click here.
Tyler Cerbo playing with the dogs that are available for adoptionTara Weiss holding YettaTyler Cerbo holding, YogiTyler Cerbo, holding Yogi; Alex Weiss holding Turi and Tara Weiss holding Yetta. All of the dogs are available for adoption through St. HubertsSt. Hubert’sCerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouses held a Pet Adoption Day
In the early 1900’s Antonio Cerbo, Sr., arrived from Italy (he was the first known Italian man in the Parsippany area!) and started a roadside farm stand.
This humble stand grew to formally become Cerbo’s in 1913. Cerbo’s been family owned and operated since that time and are now proudly operated by our 3rd and 4th generations of family right here on the same spot it all started.
Cerbo’s Greenhouse and Garden Center is Parsippany’s oldest business – even older than the town itself! The original deed was completed on a piece of parchment paper and consisted of 26 acres much of which is now under Route 80.
As we enter our 105th year of business they’re proud to carry on Antonio’s commitment to the local community.
Both Tyler and Tara are fourth generations.
For more information on Cerbo’s Greenhouse and Garden Center click here.
Junior Alyssa Gallagher, Field Hockey Player, washing cars
PARSIPPANY Parsippany High School Field Hockey Team held a Car Wash on Saturday, October 6 to raise funds for the Booster Club to fund events, to purchase new equipment and to help pay for their upcoming banquet.
Members of the Parsippany High School Field Hockey teamLonnie Koch pointing out to a spot on the car that wasn’t washedField Hockey Dads: Dave Gallagher, Rich Tkach, Lonnie Koch and Bob FalconeJunior Alyssa Gallagher, Field Hockey Player, washing carsField Hockey Moms: Joanne Koch, Bonnie DeSanguine, Sheryl Bond and Pat RoccoParsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Van Orden getting his patrol vehicle washed at the Parsippany High School Field Hockey Car WashMembers of the Parsippany High School Field Hockey team with Mayor Michael SorianoParsippany High School Field Hockey Car Wash was held on Saturday, October 6
Det/Sup LaGuerre, Parsippany Hills High School Resource Officer Gloria Ortiz, Kim Nelson-Edwards of NOBLE, Parsippany Hills High School Teacher Mark Smith, and Detective Spence Osaigbovo
PARSIPPANY — On October 2, 2018, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Supervisor Patrick LaGuerre and Detective Spence Osaigbovo joined Kim Nelson-Edwards of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) to conduct the “Safe Stop” program at Parsippany Hills High School. This program was organized with the help of Parsippany Hills High School physical education teacher Mark Smith. Students from the tenth grade attended the program throughout the morning.
“Safe Stop” is a program created by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, which aims to ensure that every traffic stop in New Jersey ends safely for all involved parties. The presentation educated the students on what to do and what not to do during a traffic stop. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and NOBLE aim to continue working with the community to develop strong relationships between the Morris County community and local law enforcement. This event at Parsippany Hills High School is one of many such community outreach programs that the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office will conduct in the near future.
Kim Nelson-Edwards of NOBLE, Parsippany Hills High School Teacher Karen Brzezinski, and Det/Sup LaGuerre
Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp stated, “Safe Stop is an extremely valuable program in ensuring that members of the Morris County community are comfortable when working with our local law enforcement. The safety of our residents and of our law enforcement officers is of the utmost importance”.
Carousel of Learning Fire Chief Karter Parisi, 2, standing on the firetruck
PARSIPPANY — Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Department District 3 visited Carousel of Learning Pre-School & Nursery, 244 Kingston Road, on Friday, September 5 to bring awareness to the children. The children had an opportunity to walk through the cabin of the fire truck and learn that firemen are their friends.
Children posing in front of Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Department Fire Truck
October 7 through October 13 is “Fire Prevention Week.”
Children posing in front of Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Department Fire Truck
This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere,” works to educate people about three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire––and how to escape safely in the event of one:
LOOK Look for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home. Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.
LISTEN Listen for the sound of the smoke alarm. You could have only minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from the home and where everyone should know to meet.
LEARN Learn two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.
Also, Sparky the Fire Dog® has a new friend, Simon, who is helping teach this year’s FPW messages – He’s a smart, resourceful character who will join Sparky in spreading fire-safety messages to adults and children alike.
Ayyan Vimalraj getting off the fire truckLake Parsippany Fire Chief Mark Turo educating the pre-schoolers
PARSIPPANY — Over 7,000 attendees came out on this day beautiful “Indian Summer” day to celebrate and enjoy Parsippany Fall Festival. Attendees crowded around “The Sons of Italy” booth to enjoy delicious homemade sausage and pepper sandwiches, cotton candy, Italian Hot Dogs and more.
Many groups offered games for the children and awarded prizes. Parsippany High School Key Club was placing removal tattoos and offering face painting to the children.
Parsippany Rescue and Recovery “Wives” was preparing their famous freshly squeezed lemonade. IHOP was serving their delicious burgers and Kabab Paradise was serving up Gyro’s. The lines at Kona Ice never ended as everyone was enjoying their flavored shaved ice. There was pizza, chicken kabobs, hot dogs, hamburgers, every to satisfy everyone appetite.
Many area banks offered free gifts and handed out brochures enticing visitors to open new accounts. The streets were filled with politicians running for office.
There were plenty of rides for the kiddies and there were karate demonstrations.
Parsippany Fall Festival 2018
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Maria Sidiropoulos, Amanda Masterson, Dr. Frank Iannetta, Denise Greco and Antonio Iannetta: Vanguard Medical Group
Parsippany-Troy Hills Women's Club; Cathy Haney, Marilyn Zarzycki, Janet Reilly, Terry Gerber, Diane Monaco, MaryAnn Coyne, Joan Garbarino, Marilyn Marion and Terri Wohlb
PARSIPPANY — Bullying takes various forms, from physical abuse to verbal attacks and rumor-spreading, but always, the intention is to inflict harm. October is National Bullying Prevention Month, with a goal of raising awareness about bullying and teaching adults and children how to prevent and stop it.
“It is imperative to create a school culture that embraces people’s differences, addresses underlying issues that lead to bullying, and creates an expectation that the behavior won’t be accepted,” said Mary Vineis, the director of Community Response and Education at NewBridge Services.
In schools, Vineis teaches children ways to handle bullying and deal with conflict, and educators about creating a safe environment. Students learn coping skills and approaches to building self-image so they are less susceptible to other people’s opinions. Children learn to react non-emotionally to hurtful words and to take power away from a student who is bullying by not engaging him. NewBridge also offers programs for parents, to let them know what the latest threats are and how best to cope with them.
One in Five Bullied
About one in five students is bullied, with more incidents occurring in middle schools, surveys have found. All forms of it cause suffering that can leave serious emotional scars. Children who bully also are affected: studies show that children who bully are more likely as adults to have trouble keeping a job and maintaining relationships, and are more prone to addiction, Vineis said. Bullying also has been found to have negative consequences for children who witness an incident but do nothing to stop it.
“Children who are not the actors in a bullying incident, but rather bystanders, must be taught that they can have a powerful role in shutting it down,” Vineis said. A 2012 study found that when bystanders intervene, bullying stops within 10 seconds in more than half of incidents. “When bystanders say or do nothing, the kid who is doing the bullying may interpret that as them endorsing the behavior,” Vineis said.
Cyberbullying
While most bullying takes place on school grounds and buses, smartphones and apps have expanded its reach. “Too often, children unwittingly become agents of bullying when they share rumors about another student on social media,” Vineis said.
Here are warning signs from StopBullying.gov that indicate a child is being bullied, and others that a child may be doing the bullying:
Being bullied:
Unexplainable injuries
Lost or destroyed clothing, books, electronics, or jewelry
Frequent headaches or stomach aches, feeling sick or faking illness
Changes in eating habits, like suddenly skipping meals or binge eating
Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
Declining grades, loss of interest in schoolwork, or not wanting to go to school
Sudden loss of friends or avoidance of social situations
Feelings of helplessness or decreased self esteem
Self-destructive behaviors such as running away from home, harming themselves, or talking about suicide
Bullying:
Gets into physical or verbal fights
Has friends who bully others
Shows increasingly aggressiveness
Gets sent to the principal’s office or to detention frequently
Has unexplained extra money or new belongings
Blames others for their problems
Doesn’t accept responsibility for their actions
Worries about their reputation or popularity
Here’s how children can help themselves:
Treat everyone with respect. Stop yourself from saying or doing something that could hurt someone. And if you think you’ve ever bullied someone, say you’re sorry.
If you’re being bullied, look at the person who’s doing it and tell him or her to stop in a calm, clear voice. If you can’t, walk away. Talk to a trusted adult, who can help you make a plan to stop the bullying. Staying near adults and other kids can help you avoid bullying situations.
Stay safe online. Think about what you post, knowing someone could forward it. Don’t share anything that could hurt or embarrass someone. Don’t share passwords with friends or other classmates (but do share with your parents!) Check your security settings to ensure only the people you want to see your posts see them. If you get a message or see a post that alarms you, talk to a trusted adult.
Stand up for other kids. If you see bullying, let an adult know. Reach out to the person who was bullied so they know they are not alone.
For more information about in-school program provided by NewBridge, contact Vineis at (973) 686-2228 or click here.
NewBridge Services, a 501c(3) nonprofit, is a premier provider of counseling services, housing and educational programs in northern New Jersey serving more than 8,000 adults and seniors last year alone. NewBridge treats mental illnesses and addictions; teaches skills for coping with stress, grief and challenging relationships; builds and manages affordable housing; offers school-based programs that teach children and adolescents resiliency skills for healthy emotional development; helps young adults succeed in their education and prepare for careers; and supports seniors so they can remain independent. Throughout its more than 55-year history, NewBridge has remained true to its mission of bringing balance to people’s lives by tracking shifts in communities’ needs and providing innovative, effective programs to meet them.
Rob Stirton, vice president of Institutional Effectiveness and CIO at County College of Morris, and Dr. Shelley Kurland, dean of the college’s Virtual Campus, pose with their NJEdge awards, which they received for their technological contributions to the higher education community
RANDOLPH — Dr. Shelley Kurland, dean of the Virtual Campus at County College of Morris (CCM), and Rob Stirton, vice president of Institutional Effectiveness and CIO, recently were presented with NJEdge awards for their technological contributions to the higher education community.
Kurland, of Rockaway, was presented with the Distinguished Service Award for Educational Technology in recognition of her “outstanding services and exemplary contributions with the use of educational technology to advance teaching, learning and student success …” At CCM, Kurland is responsible for providing strategic direction and leadership for the development of a Virtual Campus to serve diverse populations. She also has written and spoken extensively on instructional design, online learning and digital technology in the classroom.
Stirton was presented with the Enterprise Technology Innovation Award for his “outstanding creativity, innovation and risk-taking in the use of enterprise technology to advance research, institutional effectiveness and students success …” At CCM, Stirton has led the charge to support a data-driven culture at CCM by providing the necessary tools and resources. Included among those resources is the development of a data dashboard to provide college officials with ready access to the information they need for effective decision making. Stirton has expansive experience in the area of institutional research and effectiveness in higher education. Prior to joining CCM last year, he oversaw the design and implementation of strategic data extraction and reporting at Jackson College, the University of Detroit and Schoolcraft College.
“CCM is fortunate to have Dean Shelley Kurland and Vice President Rob Stirton serving as technology leaders not only for the college but the higher education community in general,” said President Anthony J. Iacono. “Through their innovation and creativity, we are able to further ensure the success of students and the effectiveness of our operations. We’re proud to have their contributions recognized by NJEdge.”
he awards were presented to Kurland and Stirton at the NJEdge Member and Partner Appreciation Day held at Montclair State University on October 5. NJEdge is a nonprofit consortium of academic and research institutions that provides access to optimal technology solutions and services, and insight and expertise in information technologies.
PARSIPPANY — Mattress Firm plans to close up to 700 stores as part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy, including more than 200 within days.
On Friday, October 5, Mattress Firm, Inc. and its subsidiaries filed voluntary Chapter 11 restructuring cases in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware to implement a prepackaged plan of reorganization that, among other things, provides the Company access to new financing to support the business, establishes an efficient and orderly process for closing certain economically inefficient store locations, and provides for all trade creditors to continue being paid in full for goods and services provided.
Part of Mattress Firm’s problem is its huge network of stores. The Houston-based retailer viewed multiple stores in cities as a way to build visibility, and spread out advertising and distribution costs. At the same time, it was snapping up competitors like Sleepy’s, Sleep Train, Back to Bed and Bedding Experts in a bid to build a national brand, and taking over some of those locations.
After a major acquisition spree in recent years, the chain has 3,230 company-owned stores and another 125 franchised locations. It has nearly 10,000 employees.
Here’s the list of more than Mattress Firm locations expected to close within days and be vacated entirely by the end of the month, according to court filings:
745 Route 46, Parsippany 07054
557 Route 130 North, East Windsor 08520
92 Ferry Street, Newark 07105
3231 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Township 08648
80 South Whitehorse Pike, Hammonton 08037
243 US Highway 46 West, Saddle Brook 07663
The Debtors filed their proposed Joint Prepackaged Plan of Reorganization and the Disclosure Statement related thereto, which is subject to approval by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. Under the terms of the Plan, all claims are unimpaired.
Mattress Firm will continue to be the largest specialty mattress retailer in the nation and is committed to offering a large selection of quality, brand name mattresses and bedding products at competitive prices. The Company is continuing to serve customers as usual at stores across the nation and online. Mattress Firm anticipates that deliveries will be made as scheduled, and the Company intends that warranties, guarantees and other customer programs will be honored as usual.
Mattress Firm’s case has been assigned to Judge Christopher S. Sontchi and Case No. 18-12241. The Docket can be accessed by clicking here or through the website maintained by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.
PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, September 29, Parsippany Hills High School Senior Alison Christian received the “Packin Family Student Athlete Scholarship.”
“I would like to thank the Hall of Fame committee for establishing the pack and family, student athletes, scholarship and especially Sue Bonnette who worked so hard and putting this together. I’m pleased to be able to present our family scholarship to this year’s recipient. My father, as the first principle of PHHS, was so very proud of this high school after my mother and our family PHHS and its students were truly the love of his life. He spent many hours here because he loved working with the staff and always felt that he had the best educators for his students. He was a high profile principal, spending time here, not only in support of the athletic, music and theater programs, but any event that was going on at the school,” said Marc Packin.
He continued “The reason I know he would be honored to have a student athlete scholarship in his name is that he was indeed an outstanding student and athlete. My father was his senior class president at Irvington high school. At 175 pounds he was chosen by the Newark Star Ledger as a first team all state football.”
“My dad received an athletic scholarship to Rutgers College where he graduated with a double major in Physical Education and history. He later continued on earning a master’s degree in Education. He started his life long career in education at Wayne High School, rising to the position of Vice Principal by the age of 26, was then offered the job of becoming the principal at Central Middle School. Three years later, becoming the principal Parsippany High School. The town of Parsippany was growing at a very rapid rate at that time, so if it became clear a second high school was needed. My father was asked to work closely with the architects and planners of the new school. He was hired to be the first principal serving in that position for 19 years. By the way, I understand Parsippany Hills High School will be celebrating their 50-year anniversary next year,” said Mr. Packin.
Alison Christian and Marc Packin. Alison received a “Special Recognition Certificate” as well as a $1,000 Packin Family Student Athlete Scholarship
So we’re here today to honor one student that exemplifies the qualities of my father. On behalf of my family, I am very proud to present the 2018 Packin Family Student Athlete Scholarship of $1,000 to Alison Christian.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Patrol Officer Ryan Taylor was patrolling the area of Wawa, 350 New Road, on Sunday, September 30 at 7:39 p.m., when he made contact with Matthew Banta, 46, West Milford, and another male standing outside of a 2001 Pontiac Firebird.
Upon arrival of Patrol Officer J. Garza and D. Sisco, they made contact with Jessica Doty, 29, West Milford, who was sitting inside the vehicle.
During the course of their investigation, it was discovered that Mr. Banta and Mrs. Doty both gave false personal information to officers.
They also found Ms. Doty had four active warrants for her arrest and Mr. Banta had two active warrants for his arrest. Mr. Banta and Ms. Doty were both placed under arrest.
Upon further investigation Ms. Doty was also found to be in possession of 62 wax folds containing suspected Heroin, nine vials of suspected cocaine, and multiple pieces of drug paraphernalia.
They were both transported to police headquarters for processing. While there Mr. Banta was charged with one count of 4th Degree Hinder Apprehension and Being under the Influence of CDS without a Prescription, a Disorderly Persons Offense.
Mrs. Doty was charged with one count of Third Degree Possession of CDS (Heroin); one count of Third Degree Possession of CDS (Cocaine); one count of Fourth Degree Hindering Apprehension; Being under the Influence of CDS without a Prescription, a Disorderly Persons Offense; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a Disorderly Persons Offense; and
Possession of a Hypodermic Needle, a Disorderly Persons Offense
Both individuals were transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending their court date.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Colonial Heights is located at 300 Parsippany Road
PARSIPPANY — A Colonial Heights, 300 Parsippany Road, resident responded to police headquarters to report a stolen package.
The victim advised Patrol Officer K. Hawthorne that a package that was marked delivered on Friday, September 28 was not present outside of her residence when she looked for it. The victim stated the package contained $150.00 worth of clothing.
This incident remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Parsippany Police Department Investigative Division at (973) 263-4311.
PARSIPPANY — A measure to bolster security at the Statehouse complex and other state buildings was introduced by Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce. The resolution (AR189) calls for the FBI and Department of Homeland Security to evaluate procedures at state facilities and recommend public safety improvements to the state police.
Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce
“What we never want to happen is for an incident to occur and someone – a legislator, a visitor, or a staffer – to say we didn’t do enough to protect them,” said DeCroce (R-Morris).
State facilities are open to the public and are vulnerable to various threats including terrorist attacks and active shooters. Federal agencies have worked with Connecticut and other states to assess and strengthen state capital security.
The assessments will not cost the state any money.
“With new risks evolving every day, it makes sense to utilize federal resources to reduce risks and protect lives,” DeCroce said. “We can benefit from the leading edge tactics used to secure our nation’s most susceptible soft targets.”
A caseworker with the N.J. Division of Child Protection brought a weapon to the office in Paramus and took her own life. Another DCPP caseworker in 2014 was stabbed repeatedly by a client in the division’s Camden office.
“Political and terrorist attacks, mass shootings, and violence toward law enforcement and elected officials are very real risks that also endanger the general public,” said DeCroce. “Combining the knowledge and expertise of the State Police and the FBI is the best way to keep our buildings safe.”
While violent crime has significantly declined over the last number of years, violent political incidents seem to be increasing.
Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.) was shot by a rifle-wielding gunman in Alexandria Va. in June 2017, and a would-be assassin killed six people and gravely wounded Rep. Gabby Giffords (D-Ariz.) in 2011.
“We have seen a significant spike in the number of violent protests and political discord dividing our nation. The volatile environment demands better security to protect lives in state buildings,” DeCroce concluded.
WASHINGTON — JBS Tolleson, Inc., a Tolleson, Ariz. establishment, is recalling approximately 6,500,966 pounds of various raw, non-intact beef products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Newport, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced.
The raw, non-intact beef items, including ground beef, were packaged on various dates from July 26, 2018 to September 7, 2018. The following products are subject to recall: [Products List (PDF) (or XLSX) | Product Labels (PDF only)]
The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 267” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to retail locations and institutions nationwide
On September 5, FSIS was notified of an investigation of Salmonella Newport illnesses with reported consumption of several different FSIS-regulated products by case-patients. The first store receipt potentially linking the purchase of FSIS-regulated product to a case-patient was received on September 19, 2018; FSIS was then able to begin traceback of ground beef products. To date, eight case-patients have provided receipts or shopper card numbers, which have enabled product traceback investigations. FSIS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state public health and agriculture partners have now determined that raw ground beef was the probable source of the reported illnesses. Traceback has identified JBS as the common supplier of the ground beef products. The epidemiological investigation has identified 57 case-patients from 16 states with illness onset dates ranging from August 5 to September 6, 2018. FSIS will continue to work with public health partners and will provide updated information should it become available.
Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. The most common symptoms of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating the contaminated product. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days. Most people recover without treatment. In some persons, however, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Older adults, infants, and persons with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop a severe illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact their health care provider.
FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.
FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website by clicking here.
FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160°F. Other cuts of beef should be cooked to a temperature of 145 °F and allowed to rest for at least three minutes. The only way to confirm that ground beef or other cuts of beef are cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature, click here.
Consumers with questions regarding the recall can contact the JBS USA Consumer Hotline at (800) 727-2333. Members of the media with questions regarding the recall can contact Misty Barnes, Public Relations Specialist at JBS USA, at (970) 506-7805.
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad at Parsippany's Trunk or Treat
PARSIPPANY — Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills announced the annual “Trunk or Treat” will be held on Wednesday, October 31 at Veteran’s Memorial Park from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
They are providing a safe and fun place for Parsippany children to “Trick or Treat.” The children will go trunk to trunk instead of door to door!
Decorate your vehicle and join in the fun!
For admission and registration information:
• Admission is NOT FREE. No registration needed: You MUST bring at least one bag of candy or “allergy friend treats” per child with at least 50 individually factory sealed treats to the event. Donations will be used to resupply vehicle registrants with candy so all children participating will receive candy.
• Due to the high demand of participants in previous years, any participants that arrive without the candy admission fee will be asked to leave and come back once they have the candy.
• Parking: Behind Houlihan’s ONLY. There will be no “Trick or Treater’s” parking within Veterans Park. Please follow “Event Parking” Signs.
• Handicap Parking: Handicap Parking will be provided at Veterans Park. Please proceed to the entrance of the Park and have your State Issued Handicap Parking Placard visible and staff will direct you to the correct lot.
• Trick or Treater’s will walk down the path from the event parking lot, cross the bridge into the park and hand in candy to receive their wristband and walk to the lot to participate. Follow Signs.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce "Juice Up Your Morning"
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce will host a “Juice Up Your Morning” Breakfast Networking Event on Thursday, October 25, starting at 8:30 a.m.
The Juice Up Your Morning Networking Meetings are the perfect way to start your day! Members join the Chamber for some early morning networking and learn ways to address the day-to-day challenges that businesses face. At our events you’re sure to pick up a valuable tip or two that you can take back with you to the office to improve your bottom line. At our Breakfast Meetings each member has the opportunity to showcase their business with the group, and then there is plenty of time for networking.
For more information, visit our website by clicking here.
This event was also made possible by sponsorships from Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Wegmans, and Springboard Therapy.
