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Wyndham Announces Latest Commitments to Sustainability

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Press Release
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PARSIPPANY — Wyndham Hotels & Resorts released its 2022 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report highlighting its dedication to operating in a socially, ethically, and environmentally responsible way.

“The significance of our company’s vision—to be the world’s leading hotel company by delivering the best value to owners and guests—is more important than ever. We believe as the world’s largest hotel franchisor, we have the responsibility to strengthen the communities in which we serve as we protect the environment for future generations while continuing the growth and success of our global franchise system,” said Geoffrey A. Ballotti, president and chief executive officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “We have witnessed the incredible resiliency of our owners, guests, and team members during these past two years. And as people return to traveling in record numbers, we look forward to welcoming them to Wyndham where we have a brand for every guest as we work to continue to advance our values-driven culture.”

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Advancing its commitment to diversity, Wyndham unveiled its “Women Own the Room” program, the first-ever program by a major hotel company specifically targeting women’s advancement in hotel ownership. Women Own the Room is designed to advance and empower women entrepreneurs to break through the predominantly male-dominated hotel industry and is an extension of the brand’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The program has awarded new hotel development contracts to women developers for projects in Colorado, Delaware, Texas, Virginia, Oklahoma, and Florida.

“We have created a culture that fosters an inclusive workplace for our team members, where all individuals are treated with respect and can achieve both personal and professional success,” said Monica Melancon, chief human resource officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

Sustainability
Wyndham is committed to protecting the environment and demonstrating leadership in environmental programs, policies, and performance. Accelerating those efforts, the company announced that hotels across the world will be required, as part of their brand standard compliance, to attain level 1 in the Wyndham Green Program by April 2023. The Wyndham Green Program is a five-level certification program that helps reduce a hotel’s environmental footprint and includes a proprietary environmental management tool that tracks data to help hotels improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, conserve water, and reduce waste while helping drive the owner’s bottom line. Wyndham’s work has been recognized through its participation in CDP’s climate change and water security responses, where it achieved the management band for sustainability performance and disclosure.

The company remains committed to reducing the energy and carbon footprint of all Wyndham hotels, and continuously evaluates opportunities to increase efficiencies and the usage of renewable energy where feasible. By 2025, the company has committed to reducing absolute carbon emissions in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 15 percent, compared to the 2019 baseline, and achieving 100 percent renewable energy at corporate headquarters, and North American offices. The company’s corporate headquarters has a Gold LEED EBOM and Energy Star Certification and provides team members with complimentary access to electric vehicle charging stations to encourage more sustainable commuting and increase the adoption of zero-emission vehicles.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts prepared its ESG report in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards, integrating the recommendations of the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). The company obtained third-party assurance over selected data disclosed in this report, as indicated by the 2021 Assurance Statement included in the report. The report covers the performance of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc for the 2021 calendar year and includes the Company’s owned and managed operations, unless otherwise stated, as well as enhanced disclosure around risk management. Unless otherwise noted, all financial figures indicated in the report are in U.S. dollars.

Marie Appel Presented with American Flag in Honor of Her Husband

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Marie Appel with Rainbow Lakes Fire District President Frank DeRienzo

PARSIPPANY — At the May 6, monthly Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company (Parsippany District Two) Marie Appel was the fire company’s special guest.  She was presented the American Flag by Company President Frank DeRienzo who proudly draped her husband’s coffin at his funeral last month.

The flag was given for his military service by the Veterans Administration and the wooden and glass case by the fire company in recognition of George’s service as a firefighter, officer, and elected Fire Commissioner for Parsippany Fire District Two.

Parsippany Auto Technician Arrested with Child Porn

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Angel Garcia

PARSIPPANY — A 25-year-old Clifton man who works at Paul Miller as an auto technician was caught trafficking child porn, authorities said.

Angel Garcia is charged with being the leader of a child pornography network, as well as possessing, maintaining, and distributing the images, Passaic County Sheriff Richard Berdnik said.

On Thursday, May 5, he was arrested by detectives from the sheriff’s Internet Crime Against Children Task Force who found him “distributing several videos and images of child sexual abuse material using Internet chat platforms,” Berdnik said.

Garcia, who works as a technician for Paul Miller Auto remained held in the Passaic County Jail pending a first appearance in Central Judicial Processing Court in Paterson.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

 

 

 

 

Arrests Made in Connection with Morristown Sexual Assault on Traction Line Recreation Trail

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph K. Kimker, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Morristown Police Chief Darnell Richardson, and Morris Township Police Chief Mark DiCarlo announced that two men have been arrested and charged in connection with an alleged sexual assault that occurred the afternoon of Tuesday, May 3, in Morristown.

On May 3, 2022, at approximately 3:41 p.m., two males approached a female and asked for money on the Traction Line Recreation Trail.

When the female victim did not provide money, one of the males pushed the victim to the ground and sexually assaulted her while the other male stood nearby.

It is alleged that the male who pushed the victim to the ground was armed with a rock at the time he sexually assaulted her.

Thereafter, both suspects fled the area.

Both suspects were unknown to the victim. On May 6, a 17-year-old juvenile male and an adult, Lizandro Osorio-Mejia, 18, were arrested in connection with the sexual assault.

It should be noted that these arrests were effectuated within hours of the public release of identifying information by the authorities.

The juvenile was charged with one count of Robbery, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1a(2) (as an accomplice), a crime of the First Degree; one count of Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1a(2) and N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(2), a crime of the Second Degree; and Theft, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3a, a crime of the Fourth Degree. The juvenile will not be identified by name.

Osorio-Mejia was arrested and charged with:

    • Two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2a(3) and N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2a(4), crimes of the First Degree.
    • One count of Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2c(1), a crime of the Second Degree.
    • Two counts of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3a, crimes of the Third Degree.
    • One count of Criminal Sexual Contact, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3b, a crime of the Fourth Degree.
    • One count of Robbery, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1a(2), a crime of the First Degree.
    • One count of Conspiracy to Commit Robbery in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1a(2) and N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(2), a crime of the Second Degree.
    • One count of Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d, a crime of the Fourth Degree.
    • One count of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, in violation of
      N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d, a crime of the Third Degree.
    • One count of Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3b, a crime of the Third Degree.
    • One count of Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(7), a crime of the Third Degree.
    • One count of Theft in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2a, a crime of the Fourth Degree.

Prosecutor Carroll commended CrimeStoppers for quickly offering a reward for information and the New Jersey State Police for composing the sketch.

Prosecutor Carroll said, “Thank you to all our law enforcement partners at the state, county and local levels, without whom such a thorough and swift investigation and arrests would not have been possible. I also thank the public and our local/regional media for their vigilance and for helping to get the word out. It is this due diligence and communication that enables law enforcement to most effectively protect the public.”

Sheriff Gannon said, “Prosecutor Carroll, Chief Richardson, Chief DiCarlo, and I agreed that this type of crime calls for pulling out all of the stops. The victim and the public deserve nothing less. After such a heinous crime, and especially when an imminent and public threat continues to be present, it is crucial to deliver a concerted and prompt response. This was done both to identify and apprehend the offenders and protect the people of Morris County until the danger is finally mitigated.”

Attorney General Reverses Decision on Police Pursuits Due to Rising Car Thefts

By
Frank L. Cahill
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File photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Just five months ago, a policy put in place is being thrown into reverse.

At the beginning of the year, the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General (NJOAG) updated guidelines on the state’s use-of-force policy that went into effect, which did not allow police pursuits over car thefts. It was only allowed if chase vehicles were involved in more serious crimes or to prevent imminent death.

Months later, after listening to various township leaders, Acting Attorney General Matt Platkin has reversed that decision, allowing police officers across the state to now pursue car thieves. Under former Attorney General Gurbir Grewal, police were restricted from conducting pursuits as part of his reform package of use-of-force policies following the death of George Floyd in 2020.

The reasoning behind the change, Platkin says, is the sharp rise in car thefts across the state. In his announcement of the reversal of the policy at a news conference in Marlboro, Platkin said that car thefts in NJ this year were 37% higher than they were last year and 53% higher compared to 2020.

“They’re increasingly linked to other crimes,” he explained. “These changes will give law enforcement the tools they need to meet the moment and protect our communities while also being mindful of the inherent risks that come to officer safety and the public when officers do engage in these pursuits.”

According to the office of the NJAOG, more than 10% of police pursuits end in injuries or fatalities. But, it also says a significant percentage of individuals who commit auto theft offenses have also been involved in shootings. State Police say there were 14,000 vehicle thefts last year, and this year is on pace to be at least 50% greater than thefts in 2020.  Nearly 99% of the car thefts, police say, are because owners are leaving their keys in the car.

Platkin’s reversal comes as New Jersey invests $10 million from the American Rescue Plan in more license plate readers to help combat car thefts. Several New Jersey towns already have had the technology in place. Additionally, $125,000 of federal money will go towards adding more detectives, prosecutors, and police departments to the auto theft task force.

Senator Joe Lagana (D – District 38) and Senator Paul Sarlo (D – District 36) support the change.

Acting Attorney General Platkin

“We applaud Attorney General Platkin for recognizing recent crime trends across New Jersey, and for issuing his directive to law enforcement at all levels that will allow them to conduct practical, safe, effective pursuits of criminals who are stealing vehicles out of Bergen County and every other county in the State,” Lagana and Sarlo said in a statement.

“These changes, which we called for in a letter to the attorney general on March 24 after receiving numerous complaints from law enforcement that the December 2020 directive concerning pursuits, though well-intended, had effectively tied officers’ hands in allowing them to properly do their jobs,” their statement continued. “This revision of that policy is a timely change, and will be welcome to those in the rank-and-file who serve and protect our communities.”

A group of lawmakers from across the state came together in Monmouth County this week calling for stiffer penalties in car theft cases, saying that the current catch-and-release policy isn’t working.

“Our judiciary cannot continue to act like a Michelin Star Restaurant offering topnotch service to criminals who are committing these crimes,” Middletown Mayor Tony Perry said. “We cannot continue to sit here and defend criminals for criminal acts.”

The change in car pursuit policy is not permanent. Platkin said that it would be in place until, at least, the end of 2022, when the NJOAG will review the policy again.

Parsippany Shop Owners Attend Small Business Grant Forum

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Chamber Vice President Michael Stanzilis opened the Morris County Small Business Grant Program “town hall” with an overview of the program

PARSIPPANY — A “Town Hall” was held on Thursday, May 5, at the Chand Palace restaurant in Parsippany Township, where small business owners and nonprofits were provided a demonstration on how to apply for up to $15,000 under the Morris County Small Business Grant Program.

Several business owners stayed for the event, while others dropped in to pick up information about a program launched by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners on Valentine’s Day with the Morris County Chamber of Commerce and Morris County Economic Development Corporation.

Millions of Dollars in Grants Still Available! Click here to learn more.

“I thank you again, the Commissioners and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce,” said Mickey Chopra, owner of i2i Indian Italian Fusion Restaurant in Boonton, who attended the forum to tell other business owners about his grant application success.

“Let me tell you, this $15,000 is really a shot in my arm to get my business going. It’s better than getting a COVID shot. Trust me. You, know, $15,000 is a lot of money. It helps so much,” Chopra explained.

Several representatives of Solix Consulting Solutions, which is operating the grant portal under a contract with Morris County, were on hand to walk business owners through the application process. Among the Solix representatives were Eric Seguin, Salvatore Cooper, Matthew Byrnes, and others who have hosted town hall forums in the past.

“Our grant fund began with $10 million, and we have just under $3 million not yet committed, so small businesses should not hesitate to apply. So many have told us they did not think they would qualify, then found they were cleared for the full $15,000. It costs nothing to apply, so why not try,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen after the event.

Morris County Chamber Vice President Michael Stanzilis, also mayor of Mount Arlington, presided over the event, noting that anyone needing assistance in filing an application need only go to the application portal. The information is explained and a hotline is provided.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Jamie Barberio

“I appreciate the Morris County Commissioners, the Economic Development Corporation, as well as the Morris County Chamber of Commerce for having these grants available for the Parsippany residents. We have a lot of small businesses in town that suffered during the pandemic. As the mayor of Parsippany and a life-long resident, I really appreciated it,” said Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Jamie Barberio.

He attended the presentation with Council President Michael dePierro, Council Vice PresidentLoretta Gragnani, and Councilman Justin Musella.

A few of the local business owners who attended the “town hall” at Chand Palace in Parsippany Township

The Morris County Small Grant Program was the brainchild of the Morris County Commissioners, who developed a unique use of funds issued to the county through the American Rescue Plan Act. The funds are earmarked for pandemic recovery efforts that continued after March 3, 2021.

Read the Qualifications and Apply by clicking here.

Federal guidelines covering the grant program will determine exactly which expenses qualify for coverage and which applications may be approved.

The grants are capped at $15,000 per applicant. However, business owners and nonprofits are encouraged to submit applications that include all costs they believe may qualify for the grant, even if the total amount of a single claim exceeds $15,000.

A final review may determine that some costs submitted for consideration are not covered under the program guidelines. However, by submitting all expenses that may qualify, applicants increase the possibility of getting the maximum amount of grant dollars possible.

 

Rauchberg Named One of NJ’s Top Dentists

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Dr. Alan Rauchberg

PARSIPPANY — Dr. Alan Rauchberg was recognized by New Jersey Monthly as one of New Jersey’s Top Dentists for 2022.

For over 55 years, Rauchberg Dental Group in Parsippany has worked tirelessly to provide dental patients with the dedicated, comprehensive, and compassionate dental care they need to live happy healthy lives.

At Rauchberg Dental Group, they are pleased to have cultivated a team of specialists under one roof, to accommodate all of your dental needs
If you are looking for the very best dental team in Parsippany, you don’t have to look far. Our team at Rauchberg Dental Group is well-known as the experts that patients of all ages can turn to for high-quality dentistry in a comfortable environment. Led by Dr. Alan Rauchberg, this team combines experience and passion with a down-to-earth approach that friends and families notice right off the bat.
Rauchberg Dental Group is located at 199m Baldwin Road, Suite 120, Parsippany. (973) 334-3777.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, May 2022

Jack Summa Inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Jack Summa

PARSIPPANY — Jack Summa was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Summa was initiated at the University of Rhode Island.

Summa is among approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff, and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff, and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 325 campuses in the United States, its territories, and the Philippines. Its mission is “To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others.”

While a student at Parsippany Hills High School, Jack was involved with clubs, performed community service, and worked as a Lifeguard at Lake Parsippany. He ran cross-country for four years and was captain his senior year. He also played baseball and wrestled. He was part of the Ski Club, Italian Club, National Honors Society, and Italian Honors Society. Outside of school, as a member of St. Christopher’s Church, Jack earned service hours as an Altar Server and volunteered at Vacation Bible School. Jack graduated from Parsippany Hills in 2019.

More About Phi Kappa Phi

Since its founding, more than 1.5 million members have been initiated into Phi Kappa Phi. Some of the organization’s notable members include former President Jimmy Carter, NASA astronaut Wendy Lawrence, novelist John Grisham, and YouTube co-founder Chad Hurley. Each year, Phi Kappa Phi awards more than $1 million to outstanding students and members through graduate and dissertation fellowships, undergraduate study abroad grants, post-baccalaureate development funding, and local, national, and international literacy grants initiatives. For more information about Phi Kappa Phi, click here.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, May 2022

Mayor Barberio Presents Proclamation to ICCC in Observance of Eid-Ul-Fitr

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Councilman Justin Musella, Tajammul Khokhar, CEO, Islamic Community Cultural Center (ICCC), Council President Michael dePierro, Councilman Frank Neglia, and Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani

PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio presented a proclamation on Tuesday, May 3, to Tajammul Khokhar, CEO, Islamic Community Cultural Center (ICCC) since Eid-Ul-Fitr is observed after the last day of fasting and is a day of rejoicing and happiness, especially for those persons who fasted and reaped the spiritual fruits of the holy occasion in accordance with the word of God in the Holy Quran.

Mayor James Barberio presented a proclamation to Tajammul Khokhar, CEO, Islamic Community Cultural Center (ICCC)

Registration for the 2022 Little Vikings Football Season

By
Frank L. Cahill
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File photo

PARSIPPANY — Registration for the 2022 Little Vikings football season is now open for all Parsippany children that will be entering grades K-8.

Register now and take advantage of our early bird price!

Any questions please email LVFsecretary@gmail.com

Follow on Instagram @parlittlevikingsfootball for updates.

Looking forward to seeing everyone on the field!

Morris County Delivers Grants for National Small Business Week

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Joining the Parsippany check presentation were: (left to right in the group to the left) Councilman Musella, Ashley Garofalo, Debra Golle, Samuel Yodice, Mayor Barberio, Commissioner Cabana. Group to the left, front row, (l-r) Peggy Clayton, Council President dePierro, and Council VP  Loretta Gragnani. Rear row (l-r) Police Capt. Brian Dowd, Joe Plescia and Patrolman D’Alessandro

PARSIPPANY — It’s National Small Business Week. The Morris County Board of County Commissioners observes the annual event by personally delivering checks to small businesses and nonprofits that qualified for grants of up to $15,000 under the Morris County Small Business Grant Program.

Police Athletic League of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township and Mara’s Café & Bakery at 23 Main Street, Denville were visited on Tuesday, May 3, and issued checks under a program designed to help small businesses and nonprofits cope with some of the setbacks caused by the pandemic.

To apply click here.

“It’s definitely worth it,” said Allison Kohler at Mara’s, after getting a check for more than $9,000.

Commissioners Deborah Smith and Thomas Mastrangelo presented the grant after touring her bakery and interviewing her about her experience applying for the grant.

“It was some of the best customer service I ever had, and you don’t expect that from the government. Honestly, it was a process, but (the customer service representative) held my hand every step of the way,” Kohler explained

Her bakery suffered business losses and difficulty maintaining personnel, but she is hopeful the business will survive as her unique offerings of bakery goods keep customers returning.

The Parsippany PAL, in operation since 1966, has been a staple as a community center in the township, but was forced to close through 2020. After partially opening last year, the PAL is back in action this year.

PAL Controller Debra Golle, PAL Executive Director Sam Yodice, Mayor James Barberio, and Morris County Commissioner Doug Cabana

Executive Director Samuel Yodice was joined by Controller Debra Golle, Program Coordinator Ashley Garofalo and Peggy Clayton, Vice President of the PAL board, in accepting a $15,000 check from Commissioner Douglas Cabana at the Baldwin Road PAL Club.  Parsippany Mayor Jamie Barberio joined the event with Council President Michael dePierro, Council Vice President  Loretta Gragnani, and Councilman Justin Musella.

Also attending were Dee dePierro, Superintendent of Recreation Joe Plescia, who also sits on the PAL National Board of Directors, Police Capt. Brian Dowd and Patrolman Remo D’Alessandro, the township community relations officer.

More grants will be delivered this week and next week, and many more are being mailed.

The Morris County Small Business program launched on Valentine’s Day under the slogan “Morris County Loves Small Business,” has received over 575 applications to date, with many already approved and most others still under review.

The Commissioners dedicated $10 million to the effort.

Most of the applications heading for final approval will provide each of the qualified businesses and nonprofits a maximum grant amount of $15,000.  While the remaining applications are still being reviewed, the program remains open to new applications. Businesses, as well as non-profits, are urged to take advantage of the grant offer.

There is no cost to apply.

The program is financed through Morris County’s share of American Rescue Plan Act funds, and it is designed to provide grants of up to $15,000 to reimburse small businesses and nonprofit organizations for specific pandemic recovery expenses. The expenses must have been incurred on or after March 3, 2021 – a timeline established under ARPA guidelines.

The Small Business Grant Program eligibility requirements include, but are not limited to:

  • The business has 25 or fewer full-time employees (or equivalent)
  • In operation since January 1, 2019
  • Located within Morris County
  • Less than $5 million in sales/revenue
  • Proof of a decline in sales/increased expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Read the Qualifications and Apply by clicking here.

Federal guidelines covering the grant program will determine exactly which expenses qualify for coverage under the grant program and which applications may be approved.

The grants are capped at $15,000 per applicant. However, business owners and nonprofits are encouraged to submit applications that include all costs they believe may qualify for the grant, even if the total amount of a single claim exceeds $15,000.

A final review may determine that some costs submitted for consideration are not covered under the program guidelines. However, by submitting all expenses that may qualify, applicants increase the possibility of getting the maximum amount of grant dollars possible.

Christa E, Schindel, 81, Passed Away

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Christa E. Schindel, 81

PARSIPPANY — Christa E. Schindel, 81, passed away on April 28 at Morristown Medical Center.

Christa was born on June 3, 1940 in Germany to Herrich Braus and Ellen Weiss. She arrived in the United States in 1961 and most recently resides in Parsippany.

She was a domestic engineer for most of her life.

Survivors include her husband, Vincent “Vinnie” Schindel, her son Mark Schindel and his wife Mary; her daughters, Christel Romero and her husband, Juan, Michaela Nardella and her husband, Peter, Tina Piccininni and her husband, Antonio; her sister, Anita Childs; her beloved grandchildren, Annamarie Nardella and her fiancé Shawn Bosse, Amanda Nardella, Vincent Nardella, Tony Piccininni, Sophia Schindel and Nicole Piccininni.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Saturday, May 7,  from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Par-Troy Funeral Home, 95 Parsippany Road, Parsippany.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her memory to the Wounded Warrior Project 370 7th Avenue (Suite 1802), New York, NY 10001.

Upcoming Gun Buyback – Guns for Cash Events May 14 – 15

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Acting Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Chief of Detectives Christoph K. Kimker, Mount Olive Police Chief Stephen Beecher, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Richard Pantina, the Morris County Board of Commissioners, and Morris County Crimestoppers announce two Gun Buy Back events are scheduled to be held in Morris County.

The County and locally-run “Guns for Cash” events will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on:

Saturday, May 14, 2022
Budd Lake Fire Department
378 Route 46
Budd Lake, NJ 07828

Sunday, May 15, 2022
Parsippany Police Athletic League (PAL) Building
33 Baldwin Road
Parsippany, NJ 07054

New Jersey residents are invited to turn in firearms with “no questions asked,” and will receive as much as $300 per weapon for up to three guns. Payouts will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. This program will accept firearms from all persons including juveniles without requiring the disclosure of names or other personal information.

Those looking to surrender firearms are asked to bring them to the above locations wrapped in plastic or contained in a box. Police officers will be stationed at each buyback location to collect and secure the guns.

The Morris County Gun Buy Back Amnesty Program will be funded with a total of $60,000.00.  Below is a table detailing the funding sources and the total amount of each contribution.

FUNDING SOURCE TOTAL CONTRIBUTION
Morris County Commissioners (County ARPA Funds) $20,000.00
Morris County Crimestoppers Commission $10,000.00
Morris County Prosecutor’s Office (CLETA) $20,000.00
New Jersey Office of the Attorney General $10,000.00
TOTAL $60,000.00

Acting Attorney General Platkin said, “Reducing gun violence in our communities is paramount, and gun buybacks are vital for removing firearms from circulation before they can be used to take a life. We proudly support counties and local law enforcement in buyback efforts that advance our shared goal of bringing an end to gun violence and restoring peace to communities across New Jersey.”

Prosecutor Carroll said, “I would personally like to thank our funding partners – Acting Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, Morris County Crimestoppers, and the Morris County Board of Commissioners – for their leadership and support of the program.  The Buy Back program is ‘no questions asked,’ and a great way for law enforcement and New Jersey residents to work together to reduce the number of unsecured guns circulating in the community.”

Sheriff Gannon said, “Reducing gun violence necessitates a cooperative response. Every gun we will collect represents a gun taken off the streets. This is all about Safety in our communities. Many times, people pass away and the family is left with firearms in the home that can be turned in to us with no questions asked. I applaud our partners at the state, county, and local levels for helping ensure a successful Program.”

Morris County Commissioner Douglas Cabana, the board liaison to Law and Public Safety, said “This program is designed to prevent unwanted firearms in Morris County households from landing on the street. The aim is public safety, and it is a suitable use of American Rescue Plan Act funding obtained by the county.”

Mount Olive Police Chief Beecher said, “The Mount Olive Police Department is pleased to partner with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Morris County Sheriff’s Department to offer our community a no-hassle and if wanted, anonymous way to get rid of unwanted guns.”

The last Gun Buy Back program in Morris County, held in March 2013, resulted in the surrender of 600 weapons and paid out a total of $49,550.

Man Charged, Possession and Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material

By
Frank L. Cahill
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parsippany police
File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Jefferson Township Police Department Chief Paul Castimore, announce the arrest of William Mickel, 68, of Lake Hopatcong.

The defendant has been charged with one count of Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(a)(i), a crime of the Second Degree; and one count of   Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii), a Third Degree crime. It is alleged that on or about January 25, Defendant was in possession of numerous videos and material depicting children in various prohibited sexual acts, constituting possession of child sexual abuse material.

In addition, it is alleged that Mickel was in possession of the above materials and that he distributed the same.  The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office was first notified and alerted by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

Mickel was arrested on the above charges on April 22, and after his arrest, he was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility.  Upon being formally advised of the charges against him, he was released pursuant to Criminal Justice Reform and is pending a Pre-Indictment Conference on May 31.

Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, the Jefferson Police Department, the Chester Township Police Department, and members of the New Jersey State Police Task Force on Child Sexual Abuse for their efforts in the investigation and arrest of this defendant.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Field of Dreams: Let the Challenger Games Begin

By
Patrick Minutillo
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President of Challenger League, Michael Bertrum, giving preliminary instructions

PARSIPPANY — The first day of May was welcomed in with beautiful weather, and the kickoff to this year’s Morris County Challenger Little League, a baseball league established for disabled children. It was nice to see the excitement on the faces of so many special needs athletes (Challengers) as they arrived at the Par-Troy West Little League Field in Parsippany, accompanied by equally excited “Buddy-Coaches.”  The “Buddy-Coaches,” are players, siblings, parents, or guardians of all ages, there to stand aside from the Challenger player, and when needed, function as their arms and legs, or provide whatever assistance is required. These resolute volunteer “buddy-coaches” provide these children with a positive and safe environment.

Pete Agostini, Christian Agostini, of Denville, with Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani.

It was great to see both the Parsippany Hills High School Baseball and Softball Teams, and Parsippany’s Little Viking Cheerleaders also come out to support his worthy effort. They would also be instrumental later in the afternoon when the more advanced Challengers players face off against a formidable opponent, the PHHS Baseball and Softball team for a special game with special rules. So far, the Challengers are undefeated.

Mayor Barberio, Ruben Fuentes, and Frank Neglia with PHHS Baseball and Softball Teams
Mayor Barberio, Ruben Fuentes, and Frank Neglia with Little Viking Cheerleaders.

But before that special game, the members of the Par-Troy Little League, and “buddy coaches,” assist Challenger players in an earlier game, which can prove extremely exciting for all involved. It was a busy afternoon. Most participants are from Morris County and a few from neighboring counties. The League does include quite a few Parsippany special needs residents. The age of participation is 5 years to 21 years old, but the 21-year-old must be attending a school to participate, and the program is split up between seventy players comprising 4 T-ball teams, and 2 Major teams. Of course, age and skill level are considered when comprising the teams.

PHHS Player Derek King, Michael Greenwaldt, of Randolph, and Coach Alan Louison of Florham Park

Par-Troy West Little League (PTWLL) President, and local council member, Frank Neglia oversees this program as well as the PTWLL, and shares an equal commitment to both. Despite being humble about his efforts, he clearly took immense pride in his part in this very worthy and noble cause. Neglia explained that the Challenger League was officially established in 1999, thanks to the efforts of Ruben Fuentes, a special needs individual himself, who was an active participant in helping to organize the day’s activities.

Michael Bertrum, President of the Challenger League was on the field coordinating and overseeing many of the activities, along with PHHS Baseball and Softball Coaches, Dan Olsen and Pete Anzelone, and Wayne Benvenuto, Manager of Athletics.

Local dignitaries who came out to support the Challengers included Mayor James R. Barberio and Council Member Loretta Gragnani.

For an application and/or more information on the Challengers Little League click here.

A great afternoon was had by all. And, by the way, the Challengers remain undefeated.

Ruben Fuentes gives instructions prior to the special game.
Batter Up

Hailey Budney inducted into Sigma Pi Sigma honor society

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Four new members were inducted into the chapter

PARSIPPANY — The University of the Cumberlands chapter of Sigma Pi Sigma held its induction ceremony on April 19. One of the students inducted was Hailey Budney of Lake Hiawatha.

Four new members were inducted into the chapter: Mr. Jacob Thorton Blankenship – senior, an applied physics major, Ms. Hailey Christine Budney – junior, physics major, Mr. Courtland James Ellis – senior, physics minor, and Mr. Bradley James Faulkner – senior, a physics major.

Chapter officers for the 2022-2023 academic year were elected as follows: President – Ms. Hailey Budney and Vice-President – Mr. Bradley Faulkner.

Sigma Pi Sigma is the national physics honor society. Chapters are restricted to colleges and universities of recognized standing that offer a strong physics major. Students elected to membership must attain high standards of general scholarship and outstanding achievement in physics. Founded in 1921, Sigma Pi Sigma is an affiliated society of the American Institute of Physics and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Sigma Pi Sigma is also a member of the Association of College Honor Societies. The Cumberlands chapter was installed as the 469th chapter in May 1998.

University of the Cumberlands is one of the largest and most affordable private universities in Kentucky. Located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, Cumberlands is an institution of regional distinction offering quality undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and online degree programs. Learn more at ucumberlands.edu.

Area Volunteers Create Bat-Friendly Habitat In Parsippany Parks

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Volunteers Len Cipkins (left), Anita Shotwell, and Luca Fariello (right) plant shagbark hickory trees in Jannarone Park, Parsippany. Photo Credit: Parsippany Bat Protection Project

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany’s bats are enjoying a BOOM in the housing market this spring, thanks to dedicated volunteers from the Parsippany Bat Protection Project (PBPP), an initiative of the Parsippany Green Team!

Luca Fariello (left), Lisa Plevin, and Srini Eda (right) straighten a shagbark hickory sapling in Volunteers Park, Parsippany. Photo Credit: Parsippany Bat Protection Project

Visitors to Par-Troy’s Volunteer Park, Lake Parsippany Park, Jannarone Park, and Lenni Lenape Park at Knoll Country Club will see new native saplings and/or “bat houses” attached to structures, as part of the PBPP’s habitat creation efforts. The four new bat houses, built as a volunteer project by Parsippany’s Boy Scout Troop 173, are actually nursery boxes for bats, each with enough room to support a maternal colony of up to 300 bats!  The houses are painted black to attract sunlight, and the internal structure is grooved to give nursing bats plenty of places to “hang out” with their offspring.  Parsippany Township officials supported these bat habitat projects at local parks.

Luca Fariello and Tom Bluj (on the ground) find the perfect spot for a new bat house at Jannarone Park, Parsippany. Photo Credit: Parsippany Bat Protection Project

The newly-planted native saplings, six shagbark hickory (carya ovata) trees, are part of the PBPP’s longer-term plan to create bat-friendly habitat. When mature, these trees feature loose plates of bark which are ideal to shelter roosting bats, and which may be more attractive to several of New Jersey’s bat species, those that prefer naturally-occurring tree crevices rather than man-made structures. New Jersey is home to NINE species of bat (6 year-round and 3 migratory) including the endangered Indiana bat.

The bat house plans and tree recommendations were provided to the PBPP by Rutgers University’s Wildlife Conservation and Management Program at wildlife.rutgers.edu. Researchers from Rutgers visited Parsippany to conduct educational programs in 2021, and for 2022 have already scheduled two Bat Walks to be held at Wildlife Preserves’ Troy Meadows in Parsippany. The popular Bat Walk programs offer an entertaining presentation followed by a short walk at dusk, where participants use a special bat acoustic device that can identify the species flying overhead in real-time.

Volunteer Luca Fariello secures a new bat house in Lenni Lenape Park at Knoll Country Club. Photo Credit: Parsippany Bat Protection Project

Bats are one of the most misunderstood, yet important species on our planet. They perform an invaluable ecological function by eating up to 3,000 insects per bat per night. This dramatically reduces the need for pesticides and produces an estimated value to the country’s agricultural industry of over $22 billion per year! 

Unfortunately, numerous bat species may face extinction, due to the deadly White-nose Syndrome fungus which has killed millions of these vulnerable creatures.

The Parsippany Bat Protection Project, as an initiative of the Parsippany Green Team, aims to educate residents and business owners about the importance of bats in the ecosystem, provide local bats with suitable habitat, and humanely reduce conflicts between bats and people. The Project enjoys the support of our local officials and the Township of Parsippany and a broad-based coalition of residents, educators, and nonprofit groups.

To learn more about the Parsippany Bat Protection Project, and how YOU can help Parsippany’s bats by hanging a bat house or planting native vegetation, please visit the following links:

Parsippany Bat Protection Project – Click here

Parsippany Green Team – Click here

Rutgers Wildlife & Conservation Management – Click here

NJ Native Plant Society – Click here

April Proclaimed Child Abuse Prevention Month

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Charlie May and Joey Elizabeth at the Pinwheel garden at Parsippany Town Hall

PARSIPPANY — Child Abuse Prevention Month and the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany kicked off the campaign by setting up pinwheel gardens and displays, with the first at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Hall, followed by several other displays around town to help raise awareness in our community by turning your attention to the importance of ensuring great childhoods for all children because our children are our future.

Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen places the final “Pinwheel” at Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Hall designating April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Also pictured is Commissioner Stephen Shaw, Kiwanis member and Councilman Justin Musella, Councilman Frank Neglia, Karen DeChristopher, Nicolas Limanov, Julie Scarano-Debrossy, and Mayor James Barberio. Julie is holding Charlie May and Joey Elizabeth

In addition, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio issued a Proclamation designating April as “Child Abuse Prevention Month.”

The theme of the April 2022 Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month is “Growing a Better Tomorrow for All Children, Together.”  Throughout CAP Month, Prevent Child Abuse America and Prevent Child Abuse-New Jersey used a community garden metaphor to reinforce the message that “Every day, we help families and children thrive.”

Kiwanis member and Councilman Justin Musella, Kiwanis member Susan Slaughery, Council President Michael dePierro, Karen DeChristopher, Mayor James Barberio, and Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani and Councilman Frank Neglia

All throughout April, you will see pinwheels on display around the Parsippany and Lake Hiawatha areas as the symbol of this very thought…that all children deserve a great childhood because they are our future.

And while the pinwheel can do many things — bring smiles, lift spirits, call for healthy starts for all children — the one thing it cannot do is move on its own.  Be the force that makes it move, bringing about real change for children in the United States. Protecting our children is everyone’s job…it’s your turn to make a difference!

Since 1983, April has been a time to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse.  As we look at the faces of the many children in our communities and think about all of the children around the world that suffer at the hands of others, let’s remember that April may be Child Abuse Prevention Month, but unfortunately abuse happens every day. That is why every year, during the month of April, communities across the country come together to focus on this startling issue and on the need for widespread prevention and public awareness campaigns to reduce the number of children who, sadly, are victims of abuse. Over 750,000 children were victims of child abuse, and over 1,800 children died as a result of abuse or neglect.

Karen DeChristopher, Kiwanis Club’s Director of of “Young Children Priority One” programs has led this campaign for the past eight years explained, “As an organization that focuses on children, there is one goal that we are looking to achieve…to raise awareness of the many ways people can get involved in the fight against child abuse:  First, we can get educated, so you can learn to recognize the signs of child abuse, so you can be that one person with the courage to step up for these children and report abuse when you suspect it.  Secondly, you can volunteer or support your child advocacy centers (Prevent Child Abuse-NJ) by calling to determine how you can support them because every children’s advocacy center can benefit from your support for the programs and services they provide to child victims of abuse and neglect.  And lastly, but most importantly we must help break the silence surrounding child abuse by raising awareness and spreading the word. These children deserve a voice because this problem has been overlooked for far too long and you can open the doors on this crime of secrecy because we can all make a difference for these children.”

Morris County Commissioners Doug Cabana, John Krickus, Stephen Shaw, Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, Karen DeChristopher and Commissioner Deborah Smith

April 2022 was also proclaimed Child Abuse Prevention Month by Morris County Government Commissioners to bring more focus to the societal threats posed by child abuse and neglect. Thank you Karen DeChristopher, Director of the Young Children Priority One Program for Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany for joining the ceremony.

Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen presents Karen DeChristopher with a proclamation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have declared child abuse and neglect to be a serious public health threat with long-lasting, negative impacts on every victim. The most effective way to combat child abuse and neglect is to increase awareness and report abuse; encourage nurturing parenting practices, and provide support to everyone who may need help raising their children in a healthy environment.

To learn more about what you can do to help prevent child abuse, contact Pamela Stalcup, Director of Development & Communications for Prevent Child Abuse-NJ at (732) 246-8060 or click here.

Members of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany surround around the Pinwheel display at Empire Diner

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. It is not religious-based or partisan in any way. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at the Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46. New members are always welcome. (Click here for more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany).

PurpleStride New Jersey 2022 was Huge Success

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Love for Lou Team

PARSIPPANY — PurpleStride New Jersey 2022 was held on Saturday, April 30 in the former Mack-Cali Campus (now Onyx Equities Campus).

The original goal for PurpleStride New Jersey 2022 was to raise $405,000 and as of the time of this article, $506,871 has been raised. Team Love for Lou! raised $2,965.30.

Lou and Fran and the entire Contaldi Family have been amazed, humbled, and blown away (the list could go on) by the support their friends and neighbors have shown them over the last six months. Let’s take that support to the next level.

Lou Contaldi with Matthew Pierone of Gourmet Cafe. Gourmet Cafe donated the purple T-shirts given to every attendee of Team Love for Lou

PanCAN PurpleStride is the ultimate event to end pancreatic cancer, and we want you to take local action to make an impact nationwide. This is the movement to change the lives of pancreatic cancer patients and your participation and fundraising make all the difference!

This is the first time pancreatic cancer survivors, families, caregivers, researchers, and supporters will take steps together through 60 PanCAN PurpleStride events across the nation. Help us turn the country purple and honor everyone affected by the disease on our One Big Day.

You’re making a difference in the lives of pancreatic cancer patients

Pancreatic cancer patients and families are counting on you – PurpleStride is the #1 way we raise money to end pancreatic cancer. Every dollar you raise goes to fund large-scale, groundbreaking research and patient-facing programs like PanCAN Patient Services.

“If you’ve lived or grown up in Parsippany, there’s a good chance that you’ve met Lou Contaldi somewhere. Lou has always been a beacon of generosity and a fixture of the town, whether he was offering some landscaping advice, coaching a PTE Little League or PAL basketball team, or bringing over a tray of sausage and peppers to a community event. He’s always happy to help with a big smile and an even bigger laugh,” said Chris Mazzarella.

Lou completed his 17th Chemotherapy treatment at Morristown Memorial recently. His next CT scan will be Mid May and our prayers are for continued health and well-being. Lou is strong and fighting hard each and every day.

To donate to Lou through GoFundMe, click here.

Fran and Lou Contaldi
Supporters of Team Love for Lou

American Cancer Society’s 2022 Relay for Life of Morris County

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Karen DeChristopher, Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani, Adam Gragnani, Dee dePierro, Council President Michael dePierro and Senator Anthony Bucco

MORRIS COUNTY — The American Cancer Society of Morris County’s Relay for Life will take place on Saturday, May 21 at Parsippany Hills High School at 20 Rita Drive in Parsippany. The event will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Registration starts at 3:00 p.m.

Western’s Angel’s For Hope 2021

The Relay for Life is a noncompetitive walk event to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer. The Theme for this year’s Relay is Star Wars. Attendees can come dressed in Star Wars attire and bring Star Wars games and accessories.

The day and night will be filled with music courtesy of a DJ and guest entertainers.  There are many activities including Contests, Corn Hole, and Flag Football. There will also be themed laps from start to finish to help keep Relayers going through the event because “cancer does not sleep.”

There are three central themes to every Relay for Life Event – Celebrate, Remember, and Fight Back. The celebration portion includes a dinner for cancer Survivors and their CareGivers.  The remembrance portion includes a moving Luminaria Ceremony in which friends and loved ones lost to cancer are remembered. The entire event is a way of fighting back against cancer by raising funds for Research.  The American Cancer Society funds research for all types of cancer. 93% of all money raised goes to continuing research efforts.

By supporting Relay For Life, you help the American Cancer Society save lives, and that helps us move closer to our ultimate goal of a world with less cancer and more birthdays.

For more information and to register please click here or click here.

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Parsippany Focus is a digital news organization that provides news coverage of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1989 by Frank Cahill, who currently owns and operates the organization. Parsippany Focus covers local news, events, and community issues, and their content is primarily distributed through their website and social media channels. The organization has been serving as a trusted source of news and information for the Parsippany-Troy Hills community for over 30 years.

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