Local News | Parsippany Focus

PHHS Senior Awards Ceremony

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 4, 2016

PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, June 1, Parsippany Hills High School recognized the Class of 2016 scholarship recipients at the Annual Senior Awards Ceremony, held this year in the school auditorium. Also acknowledged were the “PHHS Top 25 Students.” Almost 200 awards an scholarships were presented to the Graduating Senior Class.

The top 25 student awards were presented to: Chimoff, Justin; Eng, Matthew; Foote, Rebecca; George, Rachel; Hamel, Richard; Koon, Samantha; Kou, Patricia; Lalo, Mark; Li, Austin; Lin, Timothy; Lu, Justin; Mann, Maia; Nimbvikar, Anushri; Patel, Jash; Patel, Parthik; Porter, Alexa; Ramani, Haren; Ren, Ellen; Shah, Neha; Shargay, Christopher; Sharma, Rhea; Sincak, John; Soliman, Ammer; Sudit, Stephanie and Chen, Albert.

The PHHS Jazz Band performed at the beginning of the Awards Ceremony

Mr. Michael DiSanto, Principal addresses the audience

Dr. Louis Valori presenting Scholarship to Olivia Piccoli

Dr. Louis Valori presenting Scholarship to Jeffrey Hunt

Davey Willans, Greater Parsippany Kiwanis Club

Karen Kinsley presenting the George Puzio Memorial Scholarship

Ms. Mary Ann Coyne presenting on behalf of Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills

Nicolas Limanov, Robert Peluso, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce presenting to Andrew Topitz

Parsippany Vidyalaya Scholarship Jash Patel

Medhat Soliman, Faten Soliman, Ammer Soliman with Council Vice President Robert Pelsuo

Cindy Topitz, Nicolas Limanov, Harvey Topitz, Andrew Topitz and Robert Peluso

Kimberly Begley, Alexa Porter, Kimberly Ebel and Kellyann Pepe

Mark Lalo, Michael Cerri, Andrew Topitz, Alex Lerman, Luke Ferrante, Kyle Berry and Ammer Soliman

Scholarships and Awards presented were:

Aaron Lief/American Legion Post #249 Scholarship – Dredden, Mikaela; Abe Wolkofsky Scholarship – Alfonso, Andrea; African American Cultural Club Service Award – Duhaney, Brittaney; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated – Pi Thea Omega Chapter Scholarship – Dredden, Mikaela; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated – Pi theta Omega Chapter – Marjorie H. Hebert (HBCU)- Duhaney, Brittaney;Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated – Pi Theeta Omega Chapter Bookership Award- Blair, Rochelle;
Andrew J. Quinn Memorial Scholarship – Kou, Patricia; Asian American Awards – Gao, Daphne; Asian American Awards- Wu, Sarah;Atlantic Health System Blood Donor Services Scholarship Award -Patel, Reena.

Bernard Packin Valedictorian Scholarship – Soliman, Ammer; Blue Collar Workers of Parsippany Troy Hills Scholarships – Iuspa, Danielle; Blue Collar Workers of Parsippany Troy Hills Scholarships – Salgado, Jared; Carl L. Ordway Memorial Scholarship – Nimbvikar, Anushi;

Catherine McClusick Memorial Scholarship – Bellardino, Brittany; Cedar Grove Elks Scholarship – Tolosi, Kayla; Coaches’ Award for Football – Lerman, Alex; Coaches’ Award for Marching Band – Koon, Samantha; Coaches’ Award Scholarship for Cheerleading – Porter, Alexa; Coccia Foundation Scholarships – Alfonso, Andrea; Coccia Foundation Scholarships – Bedoya, Daniela; Coccia Foundation Scholarships – Delgado, Clara.

Dance Drill Step Team Award – Rojas, Amy; Dora B. Stolfi Memorial Scholarship – Koon, Samantha; Dr. Frank A. Calabria Memorial Scholarship – Alfonso, Andrea; Elks Most Valuable Student – Lu, Justin; Emil Johnson Vocation Award – Griscti, Carlyn;
Excellence in Community Service Award – Iuspa, Danielle;

Female Athlete Award -Fulmore, Erin.

Greg Puzio Memorial Scholarship – Pepe, Kellyann.

Hills of Troy Neighborhood Association Scholarship – Ebel, Kimberly.

Indian Cultural Club Service Award- Desai, Darshan; and Desai, Pareen; and Patel, Dharti and Patel, Reena; Intervale Leadership for the Future Scholarship – Dredden, Mikaela; Intervale School/Dorothy Davies Memorial Scholarship – Kuo, Calvin;

Jack Dolan Memorial Scholarship – Kou, Patricia; Janet Palatini Friendship Scholarships – Hunt, Jeffrey; Janet Palatini Friendship Scholarships – Ebel, Kimberly; John Phillip Sousa Award – Chen, Albert; Joseph Windish Parsippany Education Foundation Scholarship- Ebel, Kimberly;

Kate Russell Memorial Scholarship – Bedoya, Daniela; Kay Memorial Scholarship – Willis, Michael; Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Scholarship – Lu, Justin.

Lake Parsippany Scholarship – Steinberg, Zachary; Lake Parsippany School PTA Alumni Scholarship – Alfonso, Andrea; Lew Ludwig Memorial Scholarship – Aslan, Stephany; Little Vikings Football Award – Mucciolo, Alex; Littleton School Alumni Scholarships – Castelli, Taylor; Littleton School Alumni Scholarships – Chimoff, Justin;

Madeline L. Loftus Memorial Scholalrship – Steinberg, Zachary; Maria T. Santillan ’92 Memorial Scholarship – Alfonso, Andrea; Morris County College Fair Scholarships -2 year – Nguyen, Thinh; Morris County College Fair Scholarships -4 year – Barrese, Robert; Mt. Tabor Band Award – Hamel, Richard; Mt. Tabor PTA Scholarship – Napolitano, Alfonse;

National Merit Scholarships Commended – Ebel, Kimberly; National Merit Scholarships Commended – Hamel, Richard; National Merit Scholarships Commended – Lu, Justin; National Merit Scholarships Commended – Nimbvikar, Anushri; National Merit Scholarships Commended – Patel, Jash; National Merit Scholarships Commended – Patel, Parthik; National Merit Scholarships Commended – Porter, Alexa; National Merit Scholarships Commended – Ren, Ellen; National Merit Scholarships Finalist – George, Rachel; National Merit Scholarships Finalist – Li, Austin; New Jersey Dance & Cheerleading Coaches Association Scholarship- Sudit, Stephanie; NJAC Outstanding Scholar Athletes – Cerri, Michael; NJAC Outstanding Scholar Athletes – Dredden, Mikaela; Northern New Jersey Chinese Association Award – Lu, Justin.

Par-Hills Men’s Soccer Parents Association Scholarships – Berry, Kyle; Par-Hills Men’s Soccer Parents Association Scholarships – Cerri, Michael; Par-Hills Men’s Soccer Parents Association Scholarships – Manci, Kevin; Par-Troy West Little Legaue Scholarships – Taylor, Kelsie; Par-Troy West Little Legaue Scholarships – Vekaria, Sahil; Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship – Topitz, Andrew; Parsippany Hills Boys’ Basketball Booster Club Scholarship – Manci, Kevin; Parsippany Hills Girls’ Basketball Boosters Club Scholarships – Blair, Rochelle; Parsippany Hills Girls’ Basketball Boosters Club Scholarships – Dredden, Mikaela; Parsippany Hills Girls’ Basketball Boosters Club Scholarships – Fulmore, Erin; Parsippany Hills Girls’ Basketball Boosters Club Scholarships – Santos, Kiara; Parsippany Police Benevolent Assoc. #131 Scholarship – Salgado, Jared; Parsippany Republican Club Scholarships – Alfonso, Andrea; Parsippany Republican Club Scholarships – Dredden, Mikaela; Parsippany Soccer Club Scholarships – Berry, Kyle; Parsippany Soccer Club Scholarships – Blair, Rochelle; Parsippany Soccer Club Scholarships – Manci, Kevin; Parsippany Soccer Club Scholarships – Steinberg, Zachary; Parsippany Vidyalaya Scholarship – Patel, Jash; Parsippany-Troy Hills Rotary Scholarship – Chimoff, Justin; Parsippany-Troy Hills Senior Citizen Scholarship – Lin, Timothy; Patricia Ann; Behnke Memorial Scholarship – Rodriguez, Rebecca; Paul & Phyllis Chu Charitable Trust Scholarships – Art – Irlbeck, Allison; Paul & Phyllis Chu Charitable Trust Scholarships- Biology -Sharma, Rhea; Paul & Phyllis Chu Charitable Trust Scholarships – English – Parikh, Zalak; Paul Piccoli Memorial Scholarships – Baxter, Kristina; Paul Piccoli Memorial Scholarships – Mucciolo, Alexander; PGT Scholarship – Chimoff, Justin; PHHS Cheerleading Parent Association Scholarship – Porter, Alexa; PHHS Cheerleading Parent Association Scholarship – Taylor, Danielle; PHHS Choir Scholarships -Duhaney, Brittaney; PHHS Choir Scholarships – Mccarthy, Fiona; PHHS Choir Scholarships – Patel, Jayna; PHHS Choir Scholarships – Patel, Riddhi; PHHS Choir Scholarships – Pepe, Kellyann; PHHS Choir Scholarships – Willis, Michael; PHHS Faculty/Staff Scholarships – Ferrante, Luke; ; PHHS Faculty/Staff Scholarships – Jablonka, Cara; PHHS Faculty/Staff Scholarships – Saeed, Hina; PHHS Field Hockey Booster Club Scholarship – Rodriguez, Rebecca; PHHS Football Parents Association Scholarship – Lerman, Alex; PHHS Swim Team Booster Association Scholarships -Chang, Michael; PHHS Swim Team Booster Association Scholarships – Freindinger, Diedrich; PHHS Swim Team Booster Association Scholarships – Iuspa, Danielle; PHHS Swim Team Booster Association Scholarships – Koon, Samantha; PHHS Swim Team Booster Association Scholarships – Malik, Ahmed; PHHS Swim Team Booster Association Scholarships – McDougall, Kyle; PHHS Swim Team Booster Association Scholarships – Steere, Shelby; PHHS Swim Team Booster Association Scholarships – Summa, Rachael; PHHS Volleyball Parents’ Association Scholarship – Bedoya, Daniela; PHHS Volleyball Parents’ Association Scholarship – Delgado, Clara; PHHS Volleyball Parents’ Association Scholarship – Dredden, Mikaela; Principal’s Award – Eng, Matthew; PTHEA “Cap” Awards in Memory of John Capsouras – Mann, Maia; PTHEA “Cap” Awards in Memory of John Capsouras -Tolosi, Kayla; PTSA – Begley, Kimberly; PTSA – Chang, Michael; PTSA Di Francesco, Nicholas; PTSA – Hunt, Jeffrey; PTSA – Lu, Justin; PTSA – Mann, Maia; PTSA – Napolitano, Alfonse; and PTSA – Rodriguez, Rebecca.

Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company Scholarship in Memory of Robert Chezem -Stone, Shane; Richard C. Davis, Jr. Scholarship Fund – Piccoli, Olivia; Rocco A. Cerbo Memorial Scholarship Award – Campbell, Justin;

Salutatorian Award – Lu, Justin; Service Awards in Band – Hamel, Richard; Service Awards in Band – Lin, Timothy; Service Awards in Band – Lu, Justin; Service Awards in Band – Wu, Sarah; Service Awards in Band Yu, Dennis; Sons of Italy – Basil Ricci Memorial Scholarships – Ebel, Kimberly; Sons of Italy – Basil Ricci Memorial Scholarships – Piccoli, Olivia; Sons of Italy – Basil Ricci Memorial Scholarships – Summa, Rachael; Spencer Savings Bank Scholarship – Raia, Nichole; Student Council Awards – Ashour, Yasmine; Student Council Awards – Dredden, Mikaela; Student Council Awards – Hunt, Jeffrey; Sunrise ShopRite Continuing Education Grant – Piccoli, Olivia.

The 200 Club of Morris County Scholarships – Rodriguez, Rebecca; The 200 Club of Morris County Scholarships – Sudit, Stephanie; Tom Ladas Memorial Scholarships Fund of the Community Foundation of NJ – Alfonso, Andrea.

UNICO Montville Chapter Scholarship – Piccoli, Olivia; US Marien Corps Semper Fidelis Band Awards – Kou Parry; US Marine Corps Award for Scholastic Excellence – Sincak, John; US Marine Corps Patriotism Award – Santos, Kiara; US Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Band Awards – Espinoza, Anthony; US Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Band Awards – Kou, Parry; US Marine Corps. Distinguished Athletic Award – Steere, Shelby; US Marine Corps. Distinguished Athletic Award – Steinberg, Zachary; US Marines Corps Semper Fidelis Band Awards – Kou, Patricia;

Valori Family Scholarships Hunt, Jeffrey; Valori Family Scholarships Piccoli, Olivia
Vincent Lorenzo Male Athlete Award – Saldado, Jared;

Wegmans Scholarship – Mann, Maia; William Lu (Claire Pompei Education Scholarship) – Pepe, Kellyann; William Lu (Ed Heilmeier Education Scholarship) Songun, Deniz; Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Scholarships – Alfonso, Andrea; Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Scholarships – Chimoff, Justin; Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills Scholarships – Delgado, Clara.

Congratulations to the Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2016.

Letter to the editor: The Valori, Hirniak and King team is the one to choose

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 4, 2016

Letter to the editor: The Valori, Hirniak and King team is the one to choose

Dear Editor:

I’ve again done a level of due diligence on the coming election, and I focus on the freeholder race in this email.

The Bottom Line: The Valori, Hirniak and King team is the one to choose.

Rationale: There are several incidents and issues that argue strongly against the Cabana, Mastrangelo and DeFillippo team, and they are serious enough that I cannot, in good conscious recommend voting for them in any case

1. Assault Charges: The article below indicates that Mr. Thomas Mastrangelo is presently under investigation for assaulting and threatening a citizen during the Montville Republican Club’s Morris County Freeholder Candidate Debate. The article goes on to say that Mr. Eric Rebels has filed a criminal complaint.

Mr. Rebels described Mr. Mastrangelo’s behavior as that of a bully’s. Mr. Rebels also said that he planned to ask the Morris County freeholder Board to review Mr. Mastrangelo’s past and current altercations and to request that he undergo a psychological competency review.

The article is careful to point out that these are allegations, which must be proven in a court of law. While this is true, my research has revealed that this is not the first time that Mr. Mastrangelo has been so accused. Assault Charges Filed Against Thomas Mastrangelo Click here to read complete article.

2. Childish Sign Tampering: The Mastrangelo team has been caught tampering with Team Valori, Hirniak and King campaign signs. The next article indicates that Valori and King literally retrieved their stolen signs from the Team Mastrangelo headquarters.

This is appalling behavior. I cannot tolerate the thought of such petty, dishonest behavior in any politician that I hire. The article below contains much more information. Team Mastrangelo Continues to Tamper with Campaign Signs
Click here to read full article.

3. Lies, Lies, Lies: It looks like more dirty tricks from Team Mastrangelo and then, like any naughty child, lies to cover them up. After reviewing the article, my reaction was, “Is this for real? Is THIS the best that we can do? Team Mastrangelo Caught in a Lie. Click here to read full article.

4. Expunged Records: Here, Mastrangelo is said to have “filed criminal complaints” against the Valori, King and Hirniak team for allegedly releasing expunged records pertaining to Mastrangelo’s past. I could not find any such records or any information that such records were actually released. Moreover, I cannot see how it is even possible that the Valori, King and Hirniak team could have gotten its hands on such records.

In filing a criminal complaint with respect to this issue, Mastrangelo effective confirms that such records exist. While the article contains no more information on the supposed records, one wonders what it was in Mastrangelo’s past that had to be expunged.

That he didn’t want them released can only lead to the conclusion that they would have hurt his campaign, reputation or both. Without details, we can draw no reliable conclusions, except that this is just one more potential negative in a chain of suspicion. Character Matters, Stop Protecting The Status Quo. Click here to read full article.

In the interest of fairness, I’ve searched for negative information on the team of Valori, King and Hirniak. I was surprised to find that I could locate none. My decision is therefore made. I’m voting for Valori, King and Hirniak.

1. I hereby assert that I have received no remuneration for this email. Nor have I written this email at anyone’s request or direction. I am a private citizen and am following my conscience.

Jack Puglis
Parsippany

Ex-Parsippany deputy chief found not guilty in DWI case

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 3, 2016

Ex-Parsippany deputy chief found not guilty in DWI case

MADISON — A former deputy chief in the Parsippany Police Department accused of driving while intoxicated was found not guilty last week, officials confirmed. On Monday, May 23, Judge Gary F. Troxell, sitting in Madison Joint Municipal Court, found William Makowitz, 72, of Sparta, not guilty on the DWI charges, Court Administrator Frank Ciampi confirmed Wednesday…

Continue

Officer Dave Cavaliere saves turtle

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 3, 2016

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrol Officer Dave Cavaliere responded to the area of Intervale Road and Route 46 for a jaywalker.

Upon his arrival he encountered a large turtle attempting to cross the road outside of the cross walk and holding up traffic.

No tickets were issued and the turtle was assisted safely off the roadway into the stream.

Assault Charges Filed Against Thomas Mastrangelo

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 3, 2016

Assault Charges Filed Against Thomas Mastrangelo

MORRIS COUNTY — The Montville Republican Club’s Morris County Freeholder Candidate Debate was hosted at the Montville Senior Citizen’s Center on April 25.

During that event, Mr. Thomas Mastrangelo “purposely assaulted Eric Rebels causing pain and a stinging sensation, specifically by slapping his right chest to push him out of his way,” according to police records. In addition, “Mr. Mastrangelo did knowing speak to Mr. Eric Rebels in a loud aggressive voice, by becoming visible angry and in a barking aggressive tone asking him his name, and stated that he will find him and he will regret this, in violation of NJSA 2C:33-4B, a disorderly persons violation.”

Parsippany Focus has received a copy of a “Criminal Complaint” filed by Eric Rebels, Kinnelon against Freeholder Thomas Mastrangelo, Montville.

The complaint charges Mr. Mastrangelo with 2C:12-1A(3) and 2C:33-4B.

A June 13, 2016 court appearance is required at Montville Township Municipal Court.

According to the complaint, Mr. Rebels sat in the front row during this debate. After the debate, Thomas Mastrangelo walked toward him, and Mr. Rebels then said to him “Sir, do you know the Morris County Jail has been a mess since the takeover by the Freeholders”. He expected Mr. Mastrangelo to do, as a concerned, public servant was to listen to his concern, hand me a business card ask me to call him at a better time when they could discuss the matter.

He continues “What actually happened is he immediately stopped and turned toward me and barked at me in a loud aggressive voice ‘Who are you?’ I then responded calmly that it is not important who I am, but it is important that you understand that Morris County Correction Officers are being over-worked and having to stand post on mandatory overtime shifts. Thomas Mastrangelo then again barked at me, even more aggressively, ‘What is your name?’ I again explained to him that who I am is not important. I then said ‘The Correction Officers in the Morris County Jail are understaffed and overworked and this practice could result in a Sheriff’s Officer or inmate being injured or killed.’ ”

The report states Thomas Mastrangelo was becoming visibly angry and aggressive, he again barked “I want your name and if you work at the jail I will find you and you’ll regret this.” I raised my cellphone adjacent to my shoulder and facing the camera towards him, to show him I was recording our exchange on video and Mr. Mastrangelo looked very distraught and became seedling angry. With me standing at least 2½ feet from Thomas Mastrangelo he stepped toward me with his right foot and raised his right hand with his palm toward me and slapped my right chest/pectoral which I felt pain and a stinging sensation and pushed me out of his way though there was plenty of room for him to step back, away or around me in any direction.

“Mr. Mastrangelo then looked towards the speaking podium where Michael Johnson, Montville Republican Club First Vice President, was standing and ordered Michael Johnson to have me removed from the event. Michael Johnson immediately pointed at me and said you must leave. A short woman with black hair approached me and said “You Must Leave.” I said to her, he (Thomas Mastrangelo) just assaulted me and I would like to talk to a Montville Police Officer. This woman again insisted that I leave so I called out into the room asking if there was a Montville Police Officer present. Lt. Andrew Caggiano quickly approached me, I explained the situation and he walked me over to the police station to file my compliant.”

“This type of behavior has no place in our society at this time, children in schools and play grounds are no longer allowed to be bullied, why should a Senior Morris County Elected Freeholder be able to do this to me,” asks Mr. Rebels.

Mr. Rebels stated “Mr. Mastrangelo’s conduct was unprofessional, discourteous and sheds a very bad light on Morris County as a whole. His behavior was conduct unbecoming a public official.”

Mr. Rebels continued “From what I understand this is not Mr. Mastrangelo’s first time being charged with a compliant of harassment while holding his current position as a Morris County Freeholder. He is short tempered and quick to anger and issuing threats. Therefore, I am going to ask the Morris County Freeholder Board to conduct a review of Mr. Mastrangelo’s past and current altercations while he has held this office and request that he undergo a psychological competency review. Pursuant to the finding of this investigation I would request that they hold Mr. Mastrangelo responsible for his misconduct and if his actions or the finding of his mental health review, he is found to be dangerous, I would request that they censure, reprimand or remove him from this public office.”

Mr. Mastrangelo did not respond to requests for comments.

Morris County Freeholder Candidate Louis Valori said “Not one person should be shocked that Tom Mastrangelo’s negative conduct surfaces once again. This is another example that Mr. Mastrangelo will say and do anything to hide his long history of bad behavior from voters and taxpayers — no matter how unethical and questionable his methods are. The bottom line is Tom Mastrangelo’s negative and volatile conduct and sleazy tactics are bad for Parsippany-Troy Hills Township and the entire county.”

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.

N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1A Simple Assault: Simple assault charges commonly stem from minor alterations, fights and domestic violence incidents. The situation can quickly turn into one with serious consequences.

A person will be charged with simple assault if he merely punches or slaps another individual resulting in bodily injury or if he attempts by physical menace to put another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. For example, a person could be found guilty of simple assault for merely waving an object that could be used as a weapon but never actually strike the person. You could be found guilty of simple assault even though no actual injury occurred.

A conviction for simple assault could result in fines of up to $1,000 and the potential for up to six months in the county jail.

Harassment is a criminal offense in New Jersey and it is governed by N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4, which provides that a person may not make communication in offensively coarse language or in any manner likely to cause annoyance or alarm. The harassment law requires the prosecution to prove that a person made the communication with intent to harass the victim. It’s not enough to simply annoy someone, a harassment charge requires that you are intentionally bothering the party at hand.

Because harassment is usually classified as a petty disorderly persons offense, it can be punishable by a sentence of up to thirty days in jail and a fine of up to $500.00.

After our article was published, Parsippany Focus received the following statement from Team Morris 2016:

“The fact that this ridiculous complaint was filed on the Friday before an election tells people everything they need to know about this baseless allegation. It was a political setup by a hired Valori agitator over a month ago, and it’s just as sleazy today. There were a number of Republican Club members who witnessed just how loud and out of line Mr. Rebels was. This is nothing more than a last ditch effort in Lou Valori’s desperate and sleazy campaign, to distract voters from his own long history of pocketing taxpayer money, padding pensions, and looking for a third taxpayer funded job. With a criminal investigation pending and subpoenas issued in his own town hall, perhaps Valori should be focused on that. The bottom line is these allegations are false, I will fight them to the end, and witnesses have already come forward offering to testify and give statements refuting these baseless allegations.” Editors note: The complaint was filed with the Montville Police Department on May 27, 2016.

Barberio Administration Under Criminal Investigation

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 2, 2016

Barberio Administration Under Criminal Investigation

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Focus has been informed from numerous sources at Town Hall that a number of high ranking township officials were served with subpoenas earlier this week.

Questions to Mayor James Barberio, Business Administrator Ellen Sandman, CFO Ann Cuccci regarding the nature of the subpoenas went unanswered.

Parsippany Focus requested copies of the subpoenas from Acting Township Clerk, Khaled Madin, under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) but as of 10:48 a.m. Thursday, June 2, Parsippany Focus only received a response that our request was received by the Clerk’s Office.

Council Vice President Robert Peluso said “I am shocked and deeply concerned to learn about this matter. This appears to be another example on how matters are not being handled properly by Mayor Barberio. Our taxpayers deserve transparency and we have the right to know what is happening. On the surface his actions will lead to more problems and cost our town more money in legal fees, especially when the Council is left in the dark about these matters.”

Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., stated “What subpoenas? and replied he knew nothing about anyone at Town Hall receiving a subpoena.”

Similar requests to Council President Louis Valori, Councilman Michael dePierro and Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani went unanswered.

As information becomes available, Parsippany Focus will update this breaking news story.

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.

Bestselling author Carl Gould gives business talk regarding “Biz Dev Done Right”

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 2, 2016

Bestselling author Carl Gould gives business talk regarding “Biz Dev Done Right”

PARSIPPANY — Carl Gould is a business growth expert who advises organizations on how to get to the next level. On Tuesday, June 7 at 7:00 p.m. Gould is giving an exclusive talk to New Jersey business owners on how to expand their establishments.

He is an entrepreneur who built three multi-million dollar businesses by age forty. His consulting firm has mentored the launch of over five thousand businesses in 35 countries, and his team of mentor coaches has conducted over 75,000 sessions with entrepreneurs and executives worldwide.

He has advised over 100 of the Inc. 500/5000 Fastest Growing Companies. In his new book Carl explains how business development is often done wrong, and shows business owners how to improve their business. No matter how many techniques entrepreneurs try, many still end up scratching your head – wondering if they got it right or just guessing.

In Biz Dev Done Right Carl shows how to avoid the wasted time, resources and capital that often accompanies failed sales efforts; how to approach the growth of an organization very strategically and methodically. He shows the secrets of successful business development learned, tested, and proven over the past three decades. Scaling business development efforts and consistently finding new sales revenue is the most difficult and frustrating task in business, bar none. Biz Dev Done Right reveals simple, actionable strategies and techniques, which will put you on the path to the cash. Including: the blind spots in the sales process that keep many from achieving the success they deserve, the nine steps to any sales funnel, and how to succeed with each step, the four buying styles, the difference between marketing and sales messages so they can create The Moment of Yes, the checklist for a Rock Star Seller, and the effective way to hire top sales talent, as well as how to fire strategically.

For the past two decades, Carl Gould has served as a coach and mentor to entrepreneurs around the world. An acclaimed author, speaker and advisor to some of the most influential organizations in the world (both small and large), Carl has recognized as the foremost authority on closing the gap between where you are now and where you ultimately wish to end up. His innovative and dynamic approach to business has created significant results for his client. Carl merges timeless principles of success with leading-edge technologies to accelerate achievement. His proven methodologies are both effective and fun! With 90 independently owned-and-operated offices worldwide, Carl has created the farthest-reaching business mentoring organization in the world. Carl and his team of mentor coaches have overseen the development of thousands of small businesses on six continents; and have conducted over 50,000 coaching sessions with entrepreneurs.

Carl Gould has spent the last eighteen years in the personal and professional development field. He has studied under masters in the field of personal and professional development. In 2002, Carl founded CMT International, the farthest reaching “Business Mentoring” organization in the world. Carl’s innovative approach to Business Mentoring and Business Coaching has received acclaim from both his clients and his peers. With more than 90 independently owned and operated offices worldwide, Carl Gould and his world-class teams of mentors and coaches have guided their clients to significant results using their proven methods. What’s more, they all have fun in the process! Carl created and perfected the 7-Stages program through his work with Adizes Methodology and thousands of entrepreneurs and small businesses. Carl’s work with these companies inspired him to realize that there was a model for success, and so, the 7-Stages method was born.

Carl’s dynamic and engaging presentation style has made him one of the most sought after speakers in the world. Audiences will walk away from his presentations with the ability to align their corporate culture, uncover the hidden value of their business, build winning teams, and increase business profits with little or no additional cost.

Kafe Mozart is located at 2900 Route 10 West, Powder Mill Plaza West. Although reservations are not required, for reservations call (973) 998-7788.

Parsippany Unites to Support John Sierchio for Sheriff

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 1, 2016

Parsippany Unites to Support John Sierchio for Sheriff

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., unites to support John Sierchio for Sheriff.

“John Sierchio is exactly the what Parsippany needs as Sheriff. His vision on community outreach programs would benefit the residents of Parsippany greatly” said Mayor James Barberio.

“After spending over 25 years with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, I know first hand that John Sierchio is best person to continue the legacies of Sheriff John Fox and Sheriff Ed Rochford” said Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.

“Sierchio’s leadership skills will certainly benefit the taxpayers of Morris County and the employees of the Sheriff’s Office,” continued Carifi.

Sheriff Edward Rochford said “Over the last two years, I have vetted out a number of candidates looking for who I believe to be best to run this agency in this new era of drugs, criminal activity and terrorism. I ﬁrmly believe with full conﬁdence that John Sierchio is the best man for this job hands down. His experience in real law enforcement is by far superior than that of his opponents. Also, his experience in negotiating, having over a decade of experience negotiating from both sides of the table, will allow him to be effective, fair and reasonable. Adding to this his 37 years of volunteer public service, it is an example of his passion to serve; both of which qualities are absent in his opponents’ backgrounds. John’s work ethic and integrity is second to none. I can not say enough about John Sierchio and I hope that you continue to trust me and cast your vote on Tuesday, June 7 for John G. Sierchio.”

John Sierchio, a former Bloomfield police officer, is seeking the Republican nomination for Morris County sheriff, says that if elected, he’ll launch special efforts to combat heroin addiction and abuse of children and spouses.

“There probably isn’t a person who hasn’t been touched in some way or another by the explosion of opiate and heroin abuse in our communities,” Sierchio, of Boonton Township.

Sierchio retired as a police officer in 2014 after working in Essex County for 27 years.

Although the sheriff’s main responsibilities involve overseeing security at the county courthouse in Morristown and running day-to-day operations at the county jail, Sierchio said he intends to begin the two special efforts and also will institute a line-by-line auditing report of the sheriff’s budget to investigate areas to save taxpayer dollars.

As soon as he takes office, Sierchio said, he will appoint a committee made up of law enforcement officials, community leaders and former addicts that will have 100 days to come up with an education plan “to aggressively combat heroin addiction in Morris County.”

During his years as a police officer, Sierchio rose to the rank of detective sergeant. Sierchio worked as an Essex County police officer and an Essex County sheriff’s officer prior to serving for 22 years on the Bloomfield Police Department, where his duties included internal affairs.

Sierchio also served for 17 years as a PBA representative and 12 years as trustee on the state’s Police and Fireman’s Retirement System — five years as chairman.

John is married with four children and lives with his family in Boonton Township, where he has served as a Member of the Board of Education since 2008. John is a member of many organizations, including the New Jersey State PBA, the Italian American Police Society, and is a Life Member of the National Rife Association.

‘Marry Me a Little’: Sondheim songs in a minimalistic revue

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 1, 2016

‘Marry Me a Little’: Sondheim songs in a minimalistic revue

Joe Elefante and Patricia Durante co-star in “Marry Me a Little,” which is at the Parsippany Playhouse in Lake Hiawatha through June 5. The program for “Marry Me a Little,” which The Women’s Theater Company is currently presenting at the Parsippany Playhouse in Lake Hiawatha, calls it “A Musical by Stephen Sondheim.” More specifically, it’s a…

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Car accident sends both drivers to hospital

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 1, 2016

Car accident sends both drivers to hospital

PARSIPPANY — Ms. Sara Bakhtiar 20, Parsippany, was traveling south on Baldwin Road, crossing over Route 46 when Ms. Micoiela Braah, 20, Parsippany attempted to make a left turn from Baldwin Road onto Route 46 West striking Ms. Bakbitar’s 2004 Nissan Maxima. This accident occurred on Friday, May 27 at 3:30 p.m.

Ms. Braah was at fault for failure to yield to the right away of Ms. Bakhtiar’s vehicle. Ms. Braah was driving a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta.

Both drivers were taken to St. Clare’s Hospital, Denville, by Parsippany Emergency Medical Services.

At the time of the incident there were no summons issued.

Parsippany Police Officer Jeffrey Williams investigated the accident. Both vehicles were towed from the scene by Eagle Towing.

Officers and employees of Eagle Towing cleaning up debris from the accident

The vehicle sustained heavy front end damage

Police Department to hold open house for Exploring Program

Frank L. Cahill

Jun 1, 2016

Police Department to hold open house for Exploring Program

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Department would like to welcome students ages 14 to 20 to attend an open house for their new Exploring program.

Mayor James Barberio is proud to announce an exciting opportunity for Parsippany residents age 14 – 20 and their parents to learn about Parsippany’s upcoming Police Explorer program. As previously announced, the Explorer program gives young adults an opportunity to “explore” a possible career in law enforcement by working and training with members of the Parsippany police force. The program emphasizes academics, character development and self-discipline as well as encouragement to give back to the community.

Join members of the Parsippany police department on Wednesday, June 8 at 7:00 p.m. in the Municipal Building located at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard in the Council Chambers.

The open house is a great opportunity for anyone wishing to join or learn more about the program. Refreshments will be served. Those interested should attend with a parent or guardian. Those attending should RSVP by June 7th at tinyurl.com/ParPoliceEx.

Law Enforcement Exploring exposes its members to various areas of the law enforcement field as well as community service details. Explorers learn and train in a para military setting with a post structure similar to a police department.

Explorers receive classroom instruction and hands-on training from law enforcement officers who are dedicated to working with young people. In addition, the officers arrange activities and trips, bring in guest speakers and act as positive role models, providing career counseling and mentoring.

For further information please call the Mayor’s office at 973-263-4256, email post131@parpolice.com or visit https://ppcbsa.org/programs/exploring.

About Exploring
Exploring is a worksite-based program of Learning for Life, a subsidiary of the Boy Scouts of America, for young men and women who are 14 through 20 years old (15 through 21 in some areas). Exploring units, called “posts”, usually have a focus on a single career field, such as police, fire/rescue, emergency medical services, healthcare, law, aviation, engineering, or the like, and may be sponsored by a government or business entity.

Children clean up Manor Park

Frank L. Cahill

May 31, 2016

PARSIPPANY — Audra Crane, 7, was upset by the amount of garbage she saw when walking to and from Intervale School so she invited friends and neighbors to help clean up the woods.

She wanted to clean up so “the plants and animals can survive in their own habitat.”

The children collected twelve bags of garbage, separating recyclables for trash.

Pictured from left to right are Frank Novitskie, Jillian Crane, Noelle Crane, Logan Herzog, Sophia Novitskie, Amelia McIntosh, Emerson Arnold, Abby Herzog, Charlie McIntosh, Audra Crane and Riley Arnold.

Manor Park is located on Bell Road off Parsippany Boulevard. It contains a softball field, two basketball courts, a children’s play area and a walking path.

It didn’t rain on Parsippany’s Memorial Day Parade

Frank L. Cahill

May 31, 2016

It didn’t rain on Parsippany’s Memorial Day Parade

PARSIPPANY — Predictions of heavy rain forced several Morris County towns to postpone their Memorial Day parades, but not Parsippany. In previous years, Former Mayor Mimi Letts always said “The vets marched in the war, so we can march in the rain.”

The parade in Parsippany and Morris Township-Morristown, however, marched as expected, while several towns, like Hanover, moved formal Memorial Day ceremonies and observances indoors, while others just postponed their festivities. Parades were cancelled or postponed on Monday in Denville, Dover, East Hanover, Hanover and Roxbury.

Parsippany Police Chief Paul Philipps said township officials were monitoring the forecast Sunday night into Monday morning. They ultimately made the call to march the township’s parade, as planned.

The large crowd gathered at the corner of Littleton and Rita Drive being entertained by jugglers and other street performers until the parade arrived, led by the Parsippany Hills High School Marching Band.

Parsippany’s Dr. Philip Santiago emceed the parade which began at Sylvan Way and Littleton Road and made its way up to the bandstand at the corner of Littleton Road and Rita Drive, where Mayor James Barberio and Council President Louis Valori, Council Vice President Robert Peluso, Councilmen Michael dePierro and Paul Carifi, Jr., and Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani waited. Also present were Freeholder Thomas Mastrangelo and Douglas Cabana.

Memorial Day Parade

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New Horizons Band to perform at Community Center

Local News

Frank L. Cahill

May 30, 2016

New Horizons Band to perform at Community Center

PARSIPPANY — New Horizons Band of Morris County on Wednesday, June 15 at 1:30 p.m. in the Women’s Theater at The Parsippany Community Center.

The New Horizons Band of Morris County is a 30-piece concert band comprised of people over the age of fifty.

The Band offers seniors an opportunity to play in a warm, fun and supportive environment. Playing with New Horizons is truly a transforming experience, enabling new friendships, mutual support and team work.

Participating in New Horizons becomes an important part of the daily lives of its members. Although many members are still employed for those retired, the band restores the intellectual stimulation and opportunity that had previously been provided by the workplace. Many played in school, then stashed their instrument in the closet while the demands of work and family took center stage.

For more information on New Horizons contact Judie Oliver at (973) 625-3414 or email
newhorizonsmorriscounty@gmail.com.

Annual Memorial Day Remembrance at Veterans Memorial Park

Frank L. Cahill

May 30, 2016

PARSIPPANY — On the day when America pauses to honor those who paid the price for our freedom, the focus at Veterans Memorial Park was on the families they left behind. Special guest and keynote speaker was Cheryl Doltz, Gold Star Mother of Iraq War hero, Ryan Doltz.

Parsippany-Troy Hills held its annual Memorial Day Remembrance at Veterans Memorial Park on Monday, May 30.

Although Memorial Day is a chance to remember those who have passed away, it is also a chance for a lot of the veterans in the crowd to come together and share stories.

This year the event was emceed by VFW & American Legion member, Councilman Michael dePierro.

Reverend Bragg of Parsippany Presbyterian Church performed the Invocation and Benediction; the Boy & Girl Scouts lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance; Emma Steere, Senior Girl Scout, recited the American Creed; the Honorable James R. Barberio, Mayor of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills welcomed everyone.

As customary, members of the VFW and American Legion, performed the wreath laying ceremony in front of the Veterans Memorial statue; the VFW Rifle Squad performed the salute and Taps was played by Anthony Paterno, Brooklawn Middle School Eighth Grade Band.

Michelle Musolino-Roberts sang the “National Anthem” and “Amazing Grace” The VFW and American Legion color guards participate in they ceremony.

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. The holiday, which is observed every year on the last Monday of May.