PARSIPPANY — Sophie is a six-month old Border Collie-Spaniel mix, currently weighing 30 pounds. She will be a medium sized dog when fully grown.
She is a complete love bug! She will cover your face in kisses and gently hug you! Sophie has never met a person she hasn’t liked. She is extremely friendly and has a tail that never stops wagging!
Sophie enjoys going on walks and running around the backyard. After a long day, she will cuddle up next to you and fall asleep.
Sophie is working on her basic commands. She currently knows “sit” and “paw”! She is very intelligent and highly trainable. She does well in the crate and is working on her potty training. Sophie would do best in a home with kids above the age of six.
She is very affectionate and loyal, making her the perfect companion. She can’t wait to find her forever home!
If you are interested in adopting Sophie, please fill out an application by clicking here.
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Like Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.
PARSIPPANY — For one day only, Cookies & Crèches, the exhibit of nativities and crèches from around the world will once again take place at the historic Smith-Baldwin House next to St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church in Parsippany, on Saturday, December 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The collection has been featured on NJN television and in numerous publications.
In what has become an annual tradition in our area, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy an enchanting display of different nativity scenes, and the opportunity to purchase baked goods from an assortment of homemade holiday cookies from a variety of recipes. Admission is free.
The personal collection of over 200 nativities Rev. Susan Sica, keeps growing. New additions this year, include a clay and wire ornament from Uganda and a matchbox sized one from Germany.
The Smith-Baldwin House will be fully decorated for Christmas, adding a touch of nostalgia to the Christmas tradition of displaying a nativity set in a home. The addition of a scavenger hunt for children encourages them to learn more about each piece, as they must find the different materials used in the making of the set, a particular animal featured, or the country where the set was made. At the conclusion, participants get special holiday treat!
Christmas “cookie walks” grow in popularity every year, providing visitors with an enjoyable way to get a head start on their holiday baking. Cookies will be available for purchase at the price of $12.00 per pound. Hours for Cookies and Crèches are from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.. Park at St. Gregory’s and walk next door to The Smith-Baldwin House.
The Smith-Historic Baldwin House, part of Parsippany’s Historic District, is located at 460 S. Beverwyck Road next to St. Gregory’s Church. The House was purchased by the Township of Parsippany in 2013 for the purposes of education and preservation.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Chief of Investigations Stephen F. Wilson Jr., and Rockaway Borough Police Chief Conrad Pepperman announce the arrest of two individuals for drug-related charges in connection with the distribution of controlled dangerous substances in Rockaway Borough.
Natalia E. Zyga, 30, with a last known address in Rockaway Township, and Ryan J. Nilsen, 29, with a last known address in Rockaway Township, have each been charged with possession with the intent to distribute heroin, a crime of the third degree, possession of heroin, a crime of the third degree, and conspiracy to distribute heroin, a crime of the third degree.
On December 3, 2018, members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Major Crimes Unit, Special Enforcement Unit, and the Rockaway Borough Police Department were conducting an ongoing investigation into the distribution of controlled substances occurring in Rockaway Borough.
During the course of this investigation, Zyga and Nilsen were arrested in possession of a quantity of suspected heroin with intent to distribute it within Rockaway Borough. Both defendants were taken into custody pursuant to this ongoing investigation and were lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility on complaint warrants.
Multiple law enforcement agencies have been actively involved in this investigation, including the Rockaway Borough Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes and Special Enforcement Units.
If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200.
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.
PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday December 12, at 2:00 p.m., a special community event to foster mental health recovery, “Wellness Through Creative Expression,” will be held at the Morris Wellness Center in Parsippany.
The free event, sponsored by the Collaborative Support Programs of N.J. and Life Center Stage, will feature music, arts, poetry and drumming, as part of an effort to explore the role that creative expression has in helping to deal with mental illness and addictions.
The expressive arts have many health benefits that support mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Singing and drumming promote relaxation, a sense of group identity and a feeling of belonging, providing an opportunity for immediate engagement in a music experience.
At the event, Wellness Center members will perform as a group their original song “Love Each Other,“ and will participate in poetry, a guided drum circle, an art exhibit and more.
The Wellness Center is seeking for visual artists and poets to participate in the event, to showcase their artwork and read their poetry related to mental health or addiction. For consideration, please submit online by clicking here before December 5.
The special event will be held at the Morris Wellness Center, 1259 Route 46, Building 4, Door 4D in Parsippany. It is located in the Troy Hills Office Plaza on Route 46 East, just past the Empire Diner.
PARSIPPANY — In December 2015, Jim Simos, a Parsippany Hills High School in 1972, combined the holiday spirit with his devotion to Rutgers as he led fellow alumni affiliated with the Rutgers Club of Washington, D.C., to Arlington National Cemetery to place American and Rutgers flags on the graves of alumni veterans.
Remember the Fallen. . . Honor those who Serve. . . Teach our children the value of Freedom.
On Saturday, December 15, 2018 at 8:30 a.m., Rutgers At Arlington in conjunction with Wreaths across America will be wreath laying at Arlington National Cemetery. Please help us locate our heroes at Arlington National Cemetery.
There is no requirement to register or sign-up in order to participate.
Inspired three years ago by Wreaths Across America, the annual mid-December event that attracts tens of thousands of volunteers to the hallowed cemetery, Simos RBS’80 sees the ceremony as a means to bring alumni living in the Washington. D.C., area together-and to pay respects to the alumni who served their nation.
When Simos and a few alumni began participating in 2015, they were working from a list of 75 graduates buried at Arlington.
They located some of them by using the cemetery’s website and found others through their own sleuth work as they canvassed the sprawling cemetery, which was created in 1864. In the intervening years, publicity for the cause has led to more names and speculation that there are close to 300 alumni veterans buried at Arlington; ten more have been discovered since last year.
“We have a lot more to find,” says Simos, who often receives correspondence from relatives of the deceased veterans. “The emails we’ve received are mind-boggling.” And they, leave Simos in awe and committed to his project. To learn more, visit the Rutgers Club of Washington, D.C., which is a charter organization of the Rutgers University Alumni Association, on Facebook by clicking here.
For additional information you can email Jim Simos by clicking here.
PARSIPPANY — Acrow Bridge, a leading international bridge engineering and supply company, has announced the recent appointment of Russ Parisi as Vice President/General Manager U.S. and Canada.
In this newly-created position, Parisi will report to Acrow President Mark Joosten and will be based in the company’s Parsippany headquarters, located at 181 New Road.
“Russ brings solid experience in the sales and marketing of heavy construction equipment to both the public and private sectors,” said Bill, Killeen, Acrow Bridge CEO. “We look forward to the key role he will play in helping grow and develop business across North America.”
Added Joosten, “We are pleased to welcome Russ to the Acrow team. His strong background in the industry will benefit both existing and new customers and makes him an excellent fit as we look to expand this important market sector.”
“I am eager to join the entire Acrow team as we expand our reach in the North American markets,” said Parisi. “Ideal for numerous applications, Acrow’s durable structures have a long track record of providing enormous value to contractors and owners.”
Prior to joining Acrow, Parisi served as Vice President, USA at Hiab, and prior, was Regional Vice President at Volvo Construction Equipment. He is a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing.
About Acrow Bridge
Acrow Bridge has been serving the transportation and construction industries for more than 60 years with a full line of modular steel bridging solutions for vehicle, rail, military and pedestrian use. Acrow’s extensive international presence includes its leadership in the development and implementation of bridge infrastructure projects in over 80 countries, covering Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe and the Middle East. For more information click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Rotary Clubs in our area are offering an international scholarship for students who are interested in pursuing further study abroad. Applicants must live in Essex, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Sussex, Union or Warren Counties, and must be interested in planning a career in one of the following subject areas:
Peace and conflict resolution
Disease prevention and treatment
Water and sanitation
Maternal and child health
Basic education and literacy
Economic and community development
Candidates must be accepted to a foreign university at the time of application. The scholarship is competitive, and the main factors considered are a scholar’s experience, the graduate program of study, and career goals. Of added importance is having a plan with a clear-cut purpose. Additional information may be found in the Rotary Foundation Section of www.rotary.org, or by contacting Eva-Pia Reich at evapiareich@gmail.com
Applicants should send their resume, college transcripts, and proposal (to include the program of study and a description of a career path) to Eva-Pia Reich, 24 South Shore Road, Denville, NJ 07834 or evapiareich@gmail.com
The deadline to apply is May 1, 2019 with interviews to follow.
To learn more about Rotary in your community click here.
PARSIPPANY — Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Jay Webber requiring companies to notify users of online security breaches is once again moving through the Legislature. A-3245 cleared the Assembly financial institutions committee, and a version of the measure unanimously passed the Senate and Assembly last session, but was not signed into law.
The bill expands a list of breaches requiring notification to include user names, email addresses and any identifying information that can be used with a password or security question to access an online account. Driver’s license and social security numbers, account numbers, and credit or debit card numbers are already included.
“Online customers expect their personal and financial data to be secured,” said Webber (R-Morris). “Security breaches can result in financial loss or identity theft for innocent victims, so customers should learn of a breach as soon as it is discovered to allow them to change passwords and monitor accounts for fraudulent activity.”
Data breaches are becoming more frequent and more expensive. On Friday, Marriott announced that more than a half million customer accounts have been exposed to hackers. This year alone, customer data has been compromised at Uber, Facebook, Dunkin’ Donuts, British Airwaves and T-Mobile. The largest online breach occurred in 2013-2014, when the accounts of 3 billion Yahoo users were compromised.
PARSIPPANY — Boy Scout Troop 173 from Parsippany held their annual Turkey in Can campout and dinner this past weekend at the Winnebago Scout Reservation.
They prepared and served a full Turkey Dinner for about 80 Scouts, Parents
and Guests, including Cub Scout Troop 142 from Parsippany.
Keith Porcelli, pictured with two of the birds, was one of the chefs
PARSIPPANY — There are many ways to spread holiday cheer, and donating Christmas trees is one of them. Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouses, a family-owned and -operated nursery and greenhouse, in cooperation with the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is part of a network of tree farms around the U.S. that donates trees to the Trees for Troops program through the Christmas Spirit Foundation. For the 11th year, FedEx collects the trees from various farms and deliver them to troops at military bases across the United States.
Volunteers were loading the FedEx truck in the parking lot of Cerbo Parsippany Greenhouse
Trees for Troops, a program of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation delivers farm grown, fresh cut Christmas trees to thousands of military members each holiday season. Trees for Troops counts on donations from the public to make this program succeed year after year. Your tax-deductible charitable contribution will help those in service to their country and their families receive a Real Christmas Tree and keep the spirit of a traditional Christmas celebration alive. Since 2005, Trees for Troops has provided more than 208,720 Christmas Trees to military families and troops in the United States and overseas. For more information click here.
Trees for Troops
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Mayor Michael Soriano loading Christmas Trees for "Trees for Troops" at Cerbo Nursery
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. They’ve been family owned and operated since that time and are now proudly operating by the third and fourth generations of family 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 they enter the 105th year of business they’re proud to carry on Antonio’s commitment to the local community.
They proudly own and operate three locations spanning across North Jersey. The garden center in Parsippany has been in our operation for all 105 years and serves as the retail/wholesale yard as well. The Nursery in Hampton is another retail/wholesale yard where they also grow their own nursery stock. Their third location is the tree farm in the town of Branchville where they are humbly the largest producers of shade, ornamental, and evergreen trees.
In November and December they also operate a “choose and cut” Christmas Tree Farm.
PARSIPPANY — After arriving on a Fire Truck at Town Hall on Saturday, December 1, Santa came to have breakfast with the children at District 5 annual “Pancake Breakfast with Santa,” on Sunday morning.
The members of Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department District 5 cooked up Pancakes, Bacon, Sausage, Scrambled Eggs and served coffee, tea and orange juice to all the guests.
PARSIPPANY — Santa Claus arrived in Parsippany on Saturday, December 1 on a firetruck from Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department District 6. Children were waiting outside town hall drinking hot chocolate and eating cookies supplied by ShopRite.
They were also listening to Christmas Caroling by Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School Choir. Inside Town Hall, children had the opportunity to tell Santa Claus what they wanted for Christmas while parents took pictures of their children.
Children also received candy canes, stockings and other games. They were able to color and have fun in the Council Chambers with Santa Helpers.
PARSIPPANY — Congratulations to Parsippany-Troy Hills Officer Dean Spadavecchia on graduating the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy Class #91.
Patrolman Spadavecchia will begin his field training next week.
We wish the best of luck to Patrolman Spadavecchia as he begins his career with the Parsippany Police Department.
Dean Spadavecchia is an Army Veteran and holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Montclair State University in Justice Studies.
Amanda Baldino holds the bible when Dean Spadavecchia is taking his oath of office during his swearing in held at Town Hall on July 13, 2018
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce members held their monthly “Juice Up Your Morning” Networking Event at Parsippany High School, on Thursday, November 29.
PHS Principal Dr. Denis Mulroony greeted the members and welcomed them to Parsippany High School. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss partnerships available to PACC members at Par High.
Some of the goals of the meeting were creating a sense of community, connect students and parents with local businesses, create partnerships between the school and the community and find support programs within the school.
Student Organizations, Future Business Leaders of America, (FBLA) and DECA, members had the opportunity to discuss their opportunities and talk about their experiences in their associated organization.
FBLA inspires and prepares students to become community-minded business leaders in a global society through relevant career preparation and leadership experiences.
FBLA for high school students, with over 196,950 members and more than 5,200 chapters.
DECA is organized into two unique student divisions each with programs designed to address the learning styles, interest and focus of its members. The High School Division includes 200,000 members in 3,500 schools. The Collegiate Division includes over 15,000 members in 275 colleges and universities.
Some of the opportunities to Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce members include guest speakers, real-time case studies (with possible implementation), DECA Judges (January 7 at Ramapo College and March 5 at Harrah’s Atlantic City), Internship and part-time job opportunities, co-op placements; Business Advisory Board (to work with PHS Business staff) and new fundraising ideas/opportunities and to work with PHS Clubs.
Parsippany High School is also interested in partnering with Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce to work on a Career Fair (suggested to be held in Spring 2019). It would be a great opportunity for PHS students to create resumes and work on job search and interview skills.
It is also an excellent opportunity for local businesses to connect to students and recruit part-time positions or internships for the summer or during the school year.
Executive Board Member Frank Cahill said “Parsippany Area Chamber Commerce has many opportunities for students to get involved with the business community, and the Chamber itself. We are working on new programs for 2019 and the students can help the Chamber market some of these programs.”
Board Member Nicolas Limanov, a graduate of Parsippany High School, and the Chairman of our Education Committee worked with Chrissy Russell, Business Teacher/DECA Advisor and Redstock Coordinator in preparing this special Networking Event at Parsippany High School. Nick said “This is a great opportunity for students, teachers and local business owners to work together in enhancing the students knowledge in the business world.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board member discussing the programs of the Chamber
For additional information on programs being offered to Parsippany businesses, visit the Chamber website by clicking here, or contacting Nicolas Limanov at (917) 499-7200. He can also be reached by calling Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce at (973) 402-6400.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is located at 90 East Halsey Road, Suite 322.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., presented a “Certificate of Appreciation” to outgoing Business Administrator Ellen Sandman at the council meeting of Tuesday, November 20. Also present was Council Vice President Janice McCarthy, Councilwoman Emily Peterson, Ellen Sandman, Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani and Councilman Michael dePierro.
Ellen Sandman officially retired as of December 1, 2018.
Sandman was appointed by Former Mayor James Barberio to serve as Parsippany’s Business Administrator on June 16, 2014. Prior to joining Parsippany she was employed at Mendham Borough, where she held the same title for the previous six years, and in Denville for 22 years before that; she also served for five years as Assistant Business Administrator in Jersey City. She served the public for a total of 44 1/2 years.
“As I said to Mayor Soriano, ‘You know, I’m been a Business Administrator for 44 1/2 years. Every morning when I wake up, I wake up with a sense of urgency and a sense of a dedication to what we do. It’s not always easy, but that’s the right thing to do,’” she continued.
Councilman Michael dePierro
“My association with Ellen Sandman dates back to the nineteen eighties when I was President of the Morris County League of Municipalities and Ellen was First Vice President. We enjoyed working together to increase networking and information sharing with leaders of all 39 Municipalities in Morris County. We interfaced with the NJ State League of Municipalities and our State Legislators, supporting legislation that benefited Morris County and opposing legislation that did not. We interfaced often over the years that she served as Administrator and Public Safety Director in Denville. Ellen never ran out of ideas to accomplish her objectives, or to work with others to find a compromise. I have often heard Ellen State that ‘Her life’s work was not just a vocation because she loved what she was doing’. Ellen and I have had a friendship and a mutual respect for each other that spans the 35 years that we have known each other. I will be losing an outstanding Township employee, but I will still have a great friend. I wish Ellen the very best in her retirement,” said Councilman Michael dePierro.
Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani
Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani said “As a council member these past three years I have witnessed Ellen’s vast knowledge and experience as Parsippany’s Business Administrator. Her dedication and professionalism throughout her career not only in Parsippany but in other municipalities is an indication of the respect she has among her peers. My husband Adam and I wish her happiness in her retirement. Ellen, May the wind always be at your back, and may the sun shine upon your face.”
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., stated “It has been a pleasure working with Ellen. I wish her well in her retirement and future endeavors.”
Township Clerk Khaled Madin said “It has been a pleasure working with Ms. Sandman. Ms. Sandman’s knowledge has made her a real asset to this town and her passion for her work and helping people is contagious and refreshing. She will be missed.”
“I’ve known Ellen for twenty years and was thrilled and honored when she contacted me to work with her at the Township of Parsippany four years ago. Her knowledge of all aspects of Municipal Government and sensitivity towards the needs all people is priceless. Not only has she been a mentor to me but a great friend. And believe me she may be retiring from Municipal Government but her endless energy will go towards making a difference in other ways,” said CFO Ann Cucci.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Business Administrator Ellen Sandman
PARSIPPANY — The Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO), a peer advisory group for million dollar plus women-led companies, is proud to announce Casey Gocel Esq., a Member at Mandelbaum Salsburg P.C., a law firm based in Roseland, as the newest member of the New Jersey Chapter of the WPO.
“I am very pleased to welcome Casey Gocel to the WPO,” said Marsha Firestone, Ph.D., WPO President and Founder. “As a peer advisory organization for women business leaders of multi-million dollar companies, WPO membership is highly selective. Casey Gocel’s membership in the WPO is a testament to her incredible success in business.”
Gocel lives in Parsippany with her husband and two year old daughter, Denali. She received her Political Science B.A. in 2002 from the State University of New York in Albany before continuing on to Whittier Law School where she served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Whittier Law Review. She received her J.D., Magna cum laude in 2007. Additionally Gocel holds an LL.M. in Taxation from The New York University School of Law.
The WPO is the premier peer advisory organization connecting women who own multi-million dollar companies. In monthly meetings across six continents, chapters of 20 women presidents from diverse industries invest time and energy in themselves and their businesses to drive their corporations to the next level. Local WPO chapters are coordinated by a professional facilitator and meet monthly to share business expertise and experience in a confidential setting. For more information, call (212) 688-4114 or visit www.womenpresidentsorg.com. Follow us on Twitter @womenpresidents. Like us on Facebook at Women Presidents’ Organization.
PARSIPPANY — Honeywell International Inc. is expected to leave Morris Plains for North Carolina soon, resulting in nearly 800 jobs being lost. Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce says that New Jersey’s unfriendly business climate and tax policies are the cause.
“It is clear that Democrats do not have the ability to understand what their tax policies are doing to New Jersey,” said DeCroce (R-Morris). “People are losing their jobs, and it should be a wake-up call to residents.”
New Jersey has been ranked the worst and most expensive state to own a business by the Tax Foundation for years. In 2013 North Carolina overhauled its tax system and jumped from 44th in the nation to the third-best state to have a business. Currently, North Carolina’s corporate income tax rate is one of the lowest in the nation at three percent, and will drop to 2.5 percent in 2019 as revenues continue to increase. The state also just passed an increase in tax credits for jobs created.
New Jersey is going in a different direction, having passed the nation’s second highest corporate business tax in June. New Jersey’s corporate business tax revenue has declined four times in the past seven years.
“North Carolina continues to become more business friendly and its economy has boomed while our state languishes behind even with the national economy booming,” continued DeCroce. “Instead of raising tax rates on businesses we should be lowering them. No matter how many tax credits are granted it will never be enough to truly compete, create jobs and retain them.”
In 2015 Honeywell received a $40 million tax credit to stay in New Jersey. The company said it is relocating because it needs to be in a place more appealing to millennials as it aspires toward a more digitally driven business model.
Gov. Phil Murphy has touted New Jersey’s educated workforce as a reason for businesses to relocate here, but the state is a national leader in millennial out migration and the outmigration of college students. Murphy’s effort to make the state’s economy more technologically driven has also been undermined by Honeywell’s reason for leaving.
“The Democrats’ tax logic is a paradox. They are too cavalier in giving-out credits to lower the tax burden, and then they raise business taxes anyway. It makes no sense.
“As a small-business owner, it is incompetent and careless tax policies that are frustrating. The bottom line is that taxpayers are the ones who face the consequences of poor decision making,” concluded DeCroce.
MORRIS COUNTY — December 31, 2018 marks the 27th year of New Jersey’s biggest and brightest First Night, a New Year’s Eve family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration of the arts – with more than 100 artists, 81 events in 23 venues – representing dance, theatre, music, world cultures, visual arts and children’s programs.
For all 27 years, Morris Arts has been First Night Morris’ artistic programmer, securing topflight talents who attract thousands from throughout the state and beyond. More than half of the program features new artists (or artists returning after several years), many of whom have performed at world class venues, won international recognition, performed on national radio/TV, in major films and/or collaborated with superstars of performing arts.
On December 31, you can experience everything from a gypsy/neo-Balkan Trio, a Moldovan piano virtuoso, or a legendary hot jazz guitarist to a one-man sideshow, a champion Irish fiddler or a live reptile show.
On the Rock/Bluegrass/Blues/ Zydeco/Drum front: The John Ginty Band rocks the house, showcasing Ginty, who toured/performed with the Dixie Chicks, Jewel, Santana and received two Grammy nominations as a founding member of Robert Randolph & the Family Band. The Feinberg Brothers’ 5-piece band embodies classical bluegrass.
For gutsy blues, catch the Cobra Brothers. Got rhythm? Connect with Dana McCurdy’s Community In Rhythm Drum Circle. For flavors from New Orleans, the Zydeco Revelators offer that sweet Cajun accordion, cool rubboard vest mixed with zydeco classics, rock and jam band in an irresistible “jambalaya” of sound.
Lookin’ for some Jazz? After a near fatal accident, guitarist Frank Vignola is back with his Hot Jazz Guitar Trio, including guitar partner Vinny Raniolo and bassist, Gary Mazzaroppi. Vignola has performed with Lionel Hampton, Ringo Starr, Wynton Marsalis and other superstars First Night would not be complete without jazz pianist, Rio Clemente (the “Bishop of Jazz”), with his inventive and sparkling improvisations.
For Folk Music, catch the wit and wordplay of comedy folk singer, Carla Ulbrich, with her songs about wedgies, Waffle Houses, and Klingons. Remembering Pete Seeger, Spook Handy “keeps the flame alive,” in his ongoing World Tour. The Windborne Singers, a unique quartet of vocal chameleons, will captivate you with the purity of their voices, close harmonies and a fascinating repertoire spanning centuries and cultures.
Classical pianist Maria Sumareva
First Night’s Classical offerings include the superb artistry of Moldovan piano virtuoso, Maria Sumareva, winner of international piano competitions who dazzles with a repertoire spanning the Baroque through contemporary. The Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey explores great orchestral works from the 17th through the 21st centuries, while the Solid Brass Quartet’s grand and resonant brass features music from the Renaissance, Baroque and contemporary eras.
Harmonium Choral Society will feature South and Central American Christmas music, spirituals, Yiddish and American works. And, for “something completely different,” check out the Electro/acoustic Oboe mastery of Matt Sullivan and his sonic explorations.
First Night’s sampling of World Cultures includes the global fusion ensemble, Afrika meets India, blending the rich rhythmic and melodic traditions of India and Africa. Irish (and other) eyes will smile at the music of champion Irish Fiddler Brian Conway. Tavche Gravche, a Gypsy/neo-Balkan trio, offers a unique, fiery mix of Balkan/Eastern European and Mediterranean melodies. Try the joyous music of Random Test Reggae or Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre, or Shubanjali’s dancers who highlight Indian Classical/Folk Dance.
First Night audiences also can enjoy the dynamic rhythms of NJTAP2, whose young artists showcase the great American art form of rhythm tap dancing. Also, if you love line dancing or square dancing, neither experience nor partner is needed to participate in Square Dancing with caller, Mary Moody – fun for all ages.
Mr. Hypno — Stephen Morris
Looking for Theater/Comedy? Laugh your way into the New Year with the wit and wry humor of comedy stars, Erin Jackson and Tom McTiernan. More laughs are in store with Mr. Hypno’s Comedy Hypnotism as hypnotized volunteers discover such hidden talents as ballet dancing or cow milking! Illusionist Benjamin Lipman’s Comedy Cascade combines circus arts, vaudeville and humor with juggling, mime and magic.
The Loose Canons are master purveyors of musical parody. America’s Got Talent semi finalist David Darwin astounds audiences with his contortions, sword swallowing, glass walking, magic, juggling, fire manipulations and comedy. And, if you love history, don’t miss Living Voices: Our Revolution, a moving account of the American Revolution,told from the perspective of an African-American soldier.
Mr. Fish and his History and Mystery of Magic
Children’s – Family Programs: Who could resist Dinoman Dinosaurs! with Bob Lisaius’ life size, inflatable dinosaurs? Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery shares live reptiles (and other animals). Catch the clowns, face painting and glitter tattoos at The Children’s Fun Festival or visit Transformations Facepainting where each face becomes a living work of art. Skilled circus performer Mr. Fish explores The Mystery & History of Magic. Another favorite, Storyteller Julie Pasqual, brings her uniquely playful, physical theater skills, sharing stories from around the world.
The early session for younger children (4:45-6:45pm) includes hula hooping with Whirled Revolution, art making activities with artist Samantha (“Sam”) Matthews’ Art 4 Kids and Fun with LEGOs®. New to this year’s early session is the NJTAP2, an ensemble of young tap dancers, sharing their skills in rhythm tap dancing as well as Square Dancing with Caller, Mary Moody, with fun for the whole family.
Visual Arts:No experience is necessary to try Zentangle, a unique method of drawing using structured patterns, guided by art teacher Mimi Topping. And, as in years past, three visual arts exhibits (displaying over 300 artworks) and two sets of fireworks top off that magical evening known as First Night® Morris County.
To check out the full lineup of artists click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Sheriff’s Office is advising the Morris County community to be aware of a continuing phone scam that has been making the rounds again targeting residents of Morris County as well as communities nationwide.
Sheriff James M. Gannon said, “In the most recent calls, the caller and/or message will use an agency number for their Caller ID and will identify themselves as an employee of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. The caller says the resident has an outstanding debt and demands a prepaid credit card or the resident will be arrested. The caller states if the resident cannot pay, they must turn themselves in and may provide an address of a section of the Sheriff’s Office. In the event these fraudulent calls are received, residents should never give their personal or financial information over the phone, nor should they arrange to meet someone to provide a prepaid credit card. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office will never solicit methods of payment and/or personal identifiers over the phone.”
In 2017, and in January and May of this year, similar scams surfaced posing as officers seeking personal information and Green Dot MoneyPak cards for false warrants, civil process fees, overdue IRS payments and non-appearance for jury duty. Residents should notify their local authorities should they receive these calls.
ALL AGENCY INFORMATION AND CONTACTS CAN BE ACCESSED AND VERIFIED THROUGH THE MORRIS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE WEBSITE AT WWW.SHERIFF.MORRISCOUNTYNJ.GOV
Any suspicious calls regarding the Morris County Sheriff’s Office can also be directed to (973) 285-6600 during the day and (973) 285-2900 after hours for verification of agency personnel.
Crime Prevention Tips to Help Avoid Falling Victim to this Scam:
Legitimate law enforcement agencies will not tell people to provide money card information to avoid arrest.
Be suspicious of callers who demand immediate payment for any reason.
Never give out personal or financial information to anyone who emails or calls you unsolicited.
Never wire money, provide debt or credit card numbers or Green Dot Money Pak card numbers to someone you do not know.
Remember that anyone who has the number on a Green Dot Money Pak card, has access to the funds on the card.
If you have received a phone scam call, try to gather names, the phone number and location given, and report it to your local police.
Report tips and remain anonymous by contacting The Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers at (973) COP-CALL or www.copcall.org from your mobile device. NO ONE WILL ASK YOUR NAME!
Sophie enjoys going on walks and running around the backyard. After a long day, she will cuddle up next to you and fall asleep.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Chief of Investigations Stephen F. Wilson Jr., and Rockaway Borough Police Chief Conrad Pepperman announce the arrest of two individuals for drug-related charges in connection with the distribution of controlled dangerous substances in Rockaway Borough.
PARSIPPANY — Acrow Bridge, a leading international bridge engineering and supply company, has announced the recent appointment of Russ Parisi as Vice President/General Manager U.S. and Canada.
