This story was co-published with The Atlantic. QUANTICO, Va. — More than 30 years ago, the Federal Bureau of Investigation launched a revolutionary computer system in a bomb shelter two floors beneath the cafeteria of its national academy. Dubbed the Violent Criminal Apprehension Program, or ViCAP, it was a database designed to help catch the nation’s…
Author of Craftsman Farms History Returns for Two Book Signings
Ever wonder where Farny State Park in Rockaway got its name? Or see sign son Route 10 in Parsippany and wonder, why are there signs about Gustav Stickley? Answers to these and many other questions about our community can be found in Heather E. Stivison’s recently published book, “Craftsman Farms.”
The book is part of Arcadia Publishing’s iconic Images of America series, which chronicles the history of small towns and downtowns across the country. Captured in unique pictorial format, this small slice of hometown history details the story of Parsippany’s Craftsman Farms and the often forgotten aspects of American life that surround it.
Craftsman Farms was the country estate of the father of the American Arts and Crafts movement, Gustav Stickley. Though Stickley is credited with creating hundreds of home designs, this property contains the only home he designed and built for his own use. His rustic log house was built upon a rolling hillside surrounded by lawns, stone walls, and working farmland. In September 1917, the property was purchased by Sylvia and George Farny, who loved it dearly and passed it on to their descendants. Portions of the 650 acres were sold, but the core remained intact until the 1980s, when it was threatened by condominium development. Community activists launched a “Save the Farms” campaign, which led to the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills purchasing Craftsman Farms through eminent domain. Today, it is a busy historic house museum operated by the nonprofit Craftsman Farms Foundation. Craftsman Farms showcases the significant design legacy Gustav Stickley created as well as the architectural and landscape history of this New Jersey National Historic Landmark.
Heather E. Stivison, the former executive director of the Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms, selected many previously unpublished photographs from the museum’s archives and from personal scrapbooks of descendants of Craftsman Farms’ residents. With more than two hundred vintage images, Craftsman Farms celebrates our region, bringing to life the people, places, and events that define our community.
Stivison, who resides in coastal Massachusetts, will be returning to Morris County for two exclusive book signings. Stivison will be answering questions and signing books Saturday, August 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Morris Plains Pharmacy, 712 Speedwell Ave # 2, Morris Plains, NJ 07950, and Sunday, August 2 at Ray and Judy’s Book Stop 40 W Main St, Rockaway, NJ 07866.
Jimmy Hoffa is buried under Pulaski Skyway, mobster told reporter before death
Jimmy Hoffa might be buried in North Jersey after all. A new report suggests the body of the former head of the Teamsters was dumped in a 55-gallon drum under the Pulaski Skyway, NYDailyNews.com said. Mobster Phillip “Brother” Muscato made that revelation to investigative reporter Dan Moldea before Muscato died last year, the report said. Muscato…
Case against Parsippany ex-Boy Scout leader accused of abusing 3 Scouts gets back on track
MORRISTOWN — The case against a former Parsippany Boy Scout leader, who is accused of sexually abusing three Scouts when they were teenagers in the 1990s, is moving forward again with his representation by a new defense attorney. Stephen Corcoran, 47, of Morris Plains, is now represented by attorney Blair Zwillman of the Parsippany firm Weiner…
Two Residents on Roger Williams University Dean’s List
PARSIPPANY — Select students have been named to the Spring 2015 Dean’s List at Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List that semester.
Nicole Campisano, a graduate of Parsippany High School, currently majoring in Foreign Languages
Nicholas Gaudio, a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, currently majoring in Engineering
About RWU: Roger Williams University, with its main campus located on the coast of Bristol, R.I., is a forward-thinking private university with 45 undergraduate majors spanning the liberal arts and the professions, where students become community-minded citizens through project-based, experiential learning. With small classes, direct access to faculty and boundless opportunity for real-world projects, RWU students develop the ability to think critically while simultaneously building the practical skills that today’s employers demand. In the two years since launching its signature Affordable Excellence initiative, the University has established itself as a leader in American higher education by confronting the most pressing issues facing students and families – increasing costs that limit access to college, rising debt and the job readiness of graduates. In addition to its 4,000 undergraduates, RWU is home to more than a dozen graduate programs, a thriving School of Continuing Studies based in Providence as well as Rhode Island’s only law school.
Overnight road closures in Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department is advising motorists about overnight exit and ramp closures to accommodate construction on State Highway Route287 and Route 80.
The closures are scheduled to take place from 9:00 a.m. Thursday to 5:00 a.m. Friday:
• Route 80 Eastbound on ramp from Smith Road
• Route 80 Eastbound Exit on South Beverwyck Road (Exit 45)
• Route 80 Eastbound Express to Route 80 Eastbound crossover to local lanes (mile marker 44.0)
• Route 287 off ramp (Exit 41A) to Route 80 East, Route 46 and Smith Road
Man Arrested for Possession of Weapons Charges in Morristown
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp and Morristown Police Chief Peter Demnitz announce the arrest of Andrew Pfitzenmayer, 26, Peapack, on charges related to the possession of weapons.
On Wednesday, July 29, at approximately 10:00 a.m., the Morristown Police Department responded to the Headquarter’s Plaza Building, located at 19 Speedwell Avenue, Morristown, regarding a male acting suspiciously.
The male was later identified as Andrew Pfitzenmayer and was in possession of weapons. Piftzenmayer was placed under arrest on scene and transported to the Morristown Police Department.
Further investigation led him to be charged by way of complaint with Unlawful Possession of Weapons (crimes of the Second Degree) related to the possession of the two (2) Glock 9MM handguns, as well as Possession of Prohibited Weapons (crimes of the Fourth Degree) related to the possession of hollow-point ammunition.
The Honorable Gary Troxell, J.M.C. authorized the complaints as well as bail in the amount of $100,000 cash, bond or property. Pfitzenmayer was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility.
Numerous law enforcement agencies responded to investigate, including the Major Crimes and Intelligence Units of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the Morristown Bureau of Police, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Section.
The charges and allegations are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morristown Bureau of Police at (973) 538-2200.
Garden State Orthopedics opens office on Sylvan Way
PARSIPPANY — Avison Young, the world’s fastest-growing commercial real estate services firm, announced today that Garden State Orthopedic Associates, P.A. has signed a long-term lease for nearly 5,200 square feet at Two Sylvan Way, 53,365-square-foot, three-story office building.
Avison Young Senior Vice-President Patrick Eichner and Vice-President Peter Hedley of the firm’s New Jersey office represented the property owner, Dowell Associates, in the transaction.
Currently, 2 Sylvan Way is undergoing major capital improvements, including the expansion and reconfiguration of parking, landscaping and lighting. The building’s façade and entryways, lobby, common area corridors and bathrooms will also be redesigned. Garden State Orthopedics was particularly attracted to Two Sylvan Way’s ample parking and on-site property management.
“With significant capital improvements underway, the property owner is aiming to appeal to more healthcare tenants in addition to general office users,” comments Eichner. “Dowell Associates recognizes what is needed to appeal to healthcare users, and is committed to making the necessary improvements.”
Fitted for medical office and general office uses, Two Sylvan Way is strategically located at the intersection of Sylvan Way and Route 202, with signage along Route 202.
This is the seventh location for Garden State Orthopedic Associates, P.A., which specializes in sports medicine, total joint replacement, rehabilitation, general orthopedics, foot and ankle, hand, wrist, knee and shoulder surgery. The tenant also has offices in Fair Lawn, Mahwah, Hoboken, Midland Park, and Clifton.
Avison Young is the world’s fastest-growing commercial real estate services firm. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Avison Young is a collaborative, global firm owned and operated by its principals. Founded in 1978, the company comprises more than 1,700 real estate professionals in 66 offices, providing value-added, client-centric investment sales, leasing, advisory, management, financing and mortgage placement services to owners and occupiers of office, retail, industrial and multi-family properties.
Beware: New Traffic Signal on Littleton Road
PARSIPPANY — A new traffic signal was “turned on” yesterday on Littleton Road at the intersection of Route 80 west exit to Smith Road.
The new traffic signal will expedite the flow of traffic for those vehicles turning left onto Littleton Road from Route 80 and those vehicles traveling west on Littleton Road wishing to turn onto the Route 287 North, especially during rush hours.
Police Department warns residents about phone scams
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany–Troy Hills Police Department issued a statement regarding “Phone Scams.”
The Police Department will not contact any citizen and advise them they have a warrant for their arrest which must be paid over the phone to avoid arrest.
Recently they were advised that someone contacted a resident of another town and told them that they were a Police Officer from Parsippany Police Department which currently had a warrant for their arrest.
They further stated to prevent an arrest and to clear the charges they need to send a certain amount of money immediately.
In these scams they advise the person to call them back once they purchase a money card, money gram, visit a Western Union, or some other type of currency transfer service. In some instances the caller forces the individuals to stay on the line while they complete the transactions.
The calls were spoofed (Caller ID information altered) to appear as they had come from the Parsippany Police Department to make it appear legitimate.
If you get a phone call of this nature please record the phone number that appears on your caller ID and contact the Police.
The Federal Communications Commission has also stepped in with information and tips for consumers and a breakdown of the rules. Tips include:
- Don’t give out personal information in response to an incoming call. Identity thieves are clever – they often pose as representatives of banks, credit card companies, creditors, or government agencies to get people to reveal their account numbers, Social Security numbers, mother’s maiden names, passwords, and other identifying information.
- If you get an inquiry from a company or government agency seeking personal information, don’t provide it. Instead, hang up and call the phone number on your account statement, in the phone book, or on the company’s or government agency’s website to find out if the entity that supposedly called you actually needs the requested information from you.
To download a guide on spoofing, click here.
For more information about caller ID spoofing please visit the FCC website by clicking here.
Former Accountant Admits Forging $125K Company Check
FLORHAM PARK — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announces that LePolian McConnell, 34, East Orange, and a former employee of Kushner Company in Florham Park, pled guilty yesterday to one count of second degree Theft by Deception in violation of N.J.S. 2C:20-4(a); one count of second degree Attempted Theft by Deception in violation of N.J.S. 2C:5-1a(1) and N.J.S. 2C:20-4(a), and one count of second degree Conspiracy in violation of N.J.S. 2C:5-2 and N.J.S. 2C:20-4(a).
In pleading guilty, the defendant admitted to fraudulently issuing a Kushner Company check in the amount of $125,000. McConnell also admitted that he conspired with another individual to cash the check at Jersey City Check Cashing in Jersey City.
Under the terms of the plea agreement the State will recommend that the defendant be ordered to pay restitution and to be sentenced to three years in New Jersey State Prison.
Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Francine S. Ehrenberg represented the State in this matter.
The Honorable William J. McGovern, III, J.S.C., presided over the plea. The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on October 9, 2015.
Prosecutor Knapp thanks Police Chief Patrick P. Montuore and the Florham Park Police Department, and the Financial Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office who assisted in the investigation and the resolution of this matter.
Kiwanis Club donates to Parsippany Food Pantry
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany donated $1,000 to the Parsippany Food Panty, on Thursday, July 30.
Kiwanis Club President Mimi Letts and Kiwanis Club Foundation President Carol Tiesi presented the check to Parsippany-Troy Hills Acting Director Human Services Michele Picone at their weekly breakfast meeting at Empire Diner.
The Parsippany Food Pantry, located at 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha is in dire need of restocking.
They distribute food all year-long to needy residents, not just on holidays. Donations of non-perishable food items are always needed. The most needed items are canned goods such as fruit, fruit juices, evaporated milk, vegetables, meat, sardines, tuna, salmon, chicken, turkey, soups and stews. Dry goods such as beans, cereal, pasta, rice, diced potatoes, peanut butter, jelly, prepared tomato sauce, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, powered milk, condiments such as salad dressing, mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup; household items such as toilet tissue and laundry detergent. Supermarket gift cards are also readily accepted.
Donations can be brought to the Community Center. The Food Pantry is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m, except holidays.
Any resident in need of supplemental food are invited to call (973) 263-7163 or (973) 263-7351/52.
Ready-made bags of basic food staples such as canned goods, cereal and dried food, are available through donations from individuals, schools, scouts and churches.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany are all local people volunteering their time and talents to make our community a better place to live. They, like you, are busy with making a living, church, family, and many other activities. However, they have found that Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany gives not only a chance to give back to our community in a meaningful way, but we enjoy the fellowship, networking, and fun aspects as well.
Kiwanis is “Improving The World, One Child And One Community At A Time.”
For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.
Letter to the editor: Freeholders playing politics with County Jail
Dear Editor:
Recently, the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders fired their latest shot in the ongoing war with Morris County Sheriff Ed Rochford. I praise my opponent John Cesaro for abstaining from this vote that appears to be more about playing politics than smart policy. The public needs more information about why the decision was made and what the Freeholders calculate they can accomplish with this move. I believe in the long term, the control of the jail will be returned to the office of the Sheriff and if elected, I will vote to do so the first chance I get.
When one looks at the facts, this appears to be a reactionary move that aims to solve a problem while ignoring its cause. According to statistics provided by the Sheriff’s Office, the county jail has an astronomical employee turnover rate. The Sheriff’s Office claims that they lose 39 percent of new hires within the first two years. They attribute that statistic to below market pay and lack of modern compensation strategies to retain employees like career plans, predictable pay increases, and quality benefits.
All of those suggested improvements were in Sheriff Rochford’s recently proposed labor relations plan, and all have been opposed by the current Freeholder Board. This disagreement has obviously hurt the Freeholders already acrimonious relationship with the Sheriff’s Department, and left the unions feeling unheard and disrespected.
It is beyond frustrating that Morris County is paying to train employees that jump at their first chance to get a job at another facility, where better compensation and benefits are the norm. To deal with the unnecessarily high turnover, the County Jail has turned to paying experienced officers overtime to ensure that the jail remains safe and functional.
During my time studying Human Resources management at the Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations, I learned all about the high cost of recruiting and training and the necessity of a clearly articulated retention strategy to ensure return on investment.
The Freeholder Board’s shortsighted thinking is a clear example of why people say the private sector is more efficient than the public sector. Politicians see high overtime costs and new more expensive labor contracts as unacceptable.
The seven sitting Freeholders are unlikely to be able to achieve any improvements on the current reality unless they propose a strategy almost identical to what Sheriff Rochford brought to them previously. In reality, the Freeholders are asking county employees to bear the burden of their dysfunction to mask their own poor management and administration.
By compensating employees with a market wage, providing a clear plan for career advancement, and good benefits, the jail will reduce turnover, overtime, training costs and recruitment costs. These were all things that Sheriff Rochford was attempting to accomplish when he agreed to terms on new contracts with the four unions at the jail. That same day they seized control of the jail, the Freeholders rejected every one of those contracts sending the negotiation process back to square one. To his credit, Sheriff Rochford has been running a very tight ship since his first election in 1993, and the Morris County Jail is consistently ranked in the top 1 percent of institutions nationally.
The bad guy here is not working people. County employees should make a wage that allows them to take care of their families and live and work in Morris County. Prospective employees already want to work in the Morris County jail evidenced by the lack of labor complaints over the last few years. At a certain point the jail employees that we paid to recruit and train have to think with their wallets. The employees that have left have literally chosen to work in a more dangerous environment because they need to take care of their families.
I for one would like more information. This is an ethics issue, an open government issue, and an increased risk to the taxpayers. If this is really a good thing, the people of Morris County deserve to know why. It is only fair for the public debate. Whatever happens, at bare minimum we need to ensure the safety of the employees, inmates, and the integrity of the institution.
I am proud to be the only candidate with a clear stance on this issue, and I’m proud to support the county employees in their quest for a fair and equitable contract, and Sheriff Rochford’s efforts to rightfully maintain control of the jail (as has been customary for 275 years).
Brendan L. Keating
Candidate for Morris County Freeholder
Teen: As off-duty trooper shot at us, ‘we were afraid for our lives’
SPARTA — The state attorney general’s office says its preliminary investigation has found an off-duty state trooper fired three shots from his personal gun as three teens fled his street in a car early Sunday morning — an account that’s largely consistent with what one of the teens has told NJ Advance Media. But not entirely…
When can we expect a break from this oppressive heat?
There is hope on the horizon for the sweaty masses of New Jersey. It’s distant, but it’s there. The state is just going to have to endure another week of hot weather first. As temperatures push into the upper 90s, forecasters say highs are expected to near or exceed 90 degrees until at least Tuesday –…
Summer Concert tonight: Hotel California
PARSIPPANY — “Hotel California” will be performing during Parsippany’s Summertime Concert series on Wednesday, July 29, at 7:30 p.m. All concerts are held at Veterans Memorial Park, Route 46 and Vail Road. All concerts are held at Veterans Memorial Park, Route 46 and Vail Road.
For two decades, this act has faithfully and accurately reproduced the Grammy Award winning sounds of The Eagles. Each concert presents an exciting showcase of their hits such as “Take It Easy”, Heartache Tonight” and of course “Hotel California” Click here for more information.
Please note: Pets are NOT permitted in the park during the concerts.
The next scheduled concert is on Thursday, August 13, 7:30 p.m. and will feature “Time Machine” – One of the most well known and most sought after bands in the tri-state area, Time Machine is comprised of top musicians and performers giving you unmatched showmanship and professionalism. With so many all-star performers, their show will be like listening to a human jukebox. Constantly changing styles and vocalist during the course of the concert will keep your audience entertained and awe struck all night long!!! Click here for more information.
Burglary to vehicles on Ferncliff Road and Sherwood Road
PARSIPPANY — A resident of Sherwood Road reported his vehicle, a 2014 Lexus IS, was broken into during the evening of Thursday, July 23 or morning of Friday, July 24. Patrol Officer M. Sprung responded to the scene and spoke to the victim. The victim advised the Officer that the contents of his vehicle were scattered around the interior of his vehicle and some of his paperwork was stolen.
A resident of Ferncliff Road reported her vehicle, a 2014 Dodge Durango, was broken into during the evening of Thursday, July 23 or morning of Friday, July 24. Patrol Officer M. Sprung responded to the scene and spoke to the victim. After a short investigation it was determined the victims purse was removed from her vehicle, but recovered from the roadway. No items appeared to be missing.
Both vehicles appeared to have been left unlocked. These incidents are under investigation by the Parsippany Police Department. If you have any information regarding these incidents please contact the Parsippany Police Department at (973) 263-4300.
Robbery Arrest Following Motor Vehicle Crash
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrol Officers responded to the area of Alexander Drive for a person striking a vehicle with an object in the roadway on Tuesday, July 19 at 1:57 a.m.
Once on scene Patrol Officer E. Giordano conducted an initial investigation which revealed the victim/driver, a 19 year old male from Parsippany and the accused, later identified as Anthony Chacon, 21, Lake Hiawatha, were involved in a road rage incident prior to the crash.
Once the crash occurred between the accused’s vehicle, a 2001 Honda CRV and the victim’s vehicle, a 2003 Hyundai Elantra, the accused exited his vehicle and began to further damage the victim’s vehicle.
The victim then exited his vehicle at which time the accused pushed him against the Hyundai Elantra, threw his vehicle keys, and removed cash from him.
The accused then left the area in his Honda CRV. Patrol Officers were advised of the accused’s vehicle description along with his identity.
A short time later the accused was located at his residence and placed under arrest by Patrol Officer J. Schicke and J. Hughes.
The accused was transported back to Police Headquarters where he was charged with Robbery and Criminal Mischief. He was transported to Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of bail pending a court appearance.
Editors Note: A complaint or a charge 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.
Drunk Driver Crashes into Police Vehicle
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrol Officer M. Kimble activated his emergency lights and stopped in the left lane of Route 10 east after observing property that was reported missing on a previous incident at 12:50 a.m. on Sunday, July 26.
While retrieving the item from the roadway he observed a vehicle, later identified as a 2007 Infiniti G35, approaching his vehicle.
Patrol Officer M. Kimble was able to avoid being struck by the vehicle as it crashed into the left side of his patrol vehicle.
After a brief investigation Charles Wilfong, 63, Rockaway, was placed under arrest by Ptl. J. Pledger for suspicion of Driving While Intoxicated and transported to Police Headquarters.
While at Police Headquarters Mr. Wilfong was issued summons for Driving While Intoxicated, Reckless Driving, and Careless Driving. He was released to a family member pending his court appearance.
Editors Note: A complaint or a charge 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.