PARSIPPANY — On New Year’s Day, Parsippany residents received a new Mayor along with two new Councilmen. At noon, Councilmen Justin Musella and Frank Neglia took their oath of office followed by Mayor Jamie Barberio.
Councilman Frank Neglia, Councilman Justin Musella, and Mayor Jamie Barberio
The municipal building was packed with family, politicians, and well-wishers. The meeting was called to order by Township Clerk Khaled Madin, who also asked everyone to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance, before kicking off the official meeting.
Shortly afterward, Reverend Bragg commenced the invocation.
Senator Joe Pennacchio administered the Oath of Office to Justin Musella. Musella was accompanied by his fiancé Courtney Pirone who held the Bible.
Councilman Justin Musella was sworn-in first. He was accompanied by his fiancé Courtney Pirone who held the Bible. Senator Joe Pennacchio had the honor of administering his oath of office. Musella’s large family was in the audience beaming with pride.
Councilman Frank Neglia’s oath was administered by Board of Education Attorney Katherine Gilfillan.
Next up was Councilman Frank Neglia who was accompanied by his family including his wife Sandy and his mom and kids. His oath was administered by Board of Education Attorney Katherine Gilfillan.
Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi administered the oath of office to Mayor Barberio. Angela Barberio held the bible while he was sworn in.
When it came time to swear in the new Mayor, Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi joined in as she administered the oath of office to Mayor Barberio. The Mayor was also accompanied by his daughter Angela who held the bible while he was sworn in.
Mayor Barberio signs the “Oath of Allegiance.” Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi and Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Clerk Khaled Madin look on.
All three new officials addressed the public mentioning their desire to bring back “Pride in Parsippany.” Mayor Barberio emotionally thanked everyone who helped him reach his goal, four years in the making, of returning to the town hall to be Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor.
Township Clerk Khaled Madin with Mayor James BarberioThe municipal building was packed with family, politicians, and well-wishersThe municipal building was packed with family, politicians, and well-wishers
Mayor James Barberio, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Councilman Justin Musella, Council President Michael dePierro, Councilman Frank Neglia, and Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani
Lighting the Eagle Trail Ceremony with Charlie Sonzogni during the Eagle Court of Honor for Arnov Bhardwaj, Neil Deshpande and Derek Kaiser
PARSIPPANY — The Scouts BSA Troop 72 Parsippany held an Eagle Scout Court of Honor at All Saints Academy on Sunday, January 2, to honor three scouts who achieved the rank of Eagle Scout: Arnov Bhardwaj, Neil Deshpande, and Derek Kaiser.
Adam Sonzongi delivered the Opening Remarks
The COVID-19 pandemic presented special challenges to the planning and executing of this event. All efforts were put in place to ensure the safety of the scouts, leaders, and families attending the event including sanitizing all surfaces, social distancing seating by family, wearing masks, and the Kaiser Family outside in a tent due to being currently quarantined.
Scott Maciag was the Master of Ceremonies
The pathway to Eagle can be described as a steep trail leading up to three peaks, the highest being that of Eagle Scout. Officially, the trail starts with the Tenderfoot rank and continues through Second and First Class ranks. Then, the mountain climbing begins. The path is marked with merit badges, leadership responsibilities, service projects, and the practice of Scouting skills and ideals. The first peak reached is that of Star Scout, the second is Life Scout, and, finally, Eagle Scout.
The Eagle Scout Award is Scouting’s highest rank and among its most familiar icons. Men who have earned it count it among their most treasured possessions.
Those who missed it by a whisker remember exactly which requirement they didn’t complete. Americans from all walks of life know that being an Eagle Scout is a great honor. The award is more than a badge. It’s a state of being.
Voice of the Eagle Ceremony was performed by Keith Hawkins, Jr.
The Eagle Scout may have received the badge as a boy, but you earn it every day as a man. In the words of the Eagle Scout Promise, they do their best each day to make their training and example, their rank and their influence count strongly for better Scouting and for better citizenship in the troop, in their community, and in their contacts with other people. And to this, they pledge their sacred honor.
Since its introduction in 1911, the Eagle Scout rank has been earned by more than two million young men. Only 5% of the Boy Scouts actually earn this rank.
Arnov Bhardwaj
Arnov Bhardwaj
Arnov began planning his Eagle Project in late 2019 when he reached out to Celebrate the Children, a school for students with special learning needs. He and the school’s representative, Mrs. Cheri Alexander, decided to install fitness stations along a walking path on the school’s campus.
This was to ensure students could participate in physical activity when they were outside, being able to engage in exercises such as pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, and dips. It also contributed to the campus’s aesthetically pleasing array of eagle projects.
Arnov got approval for the project, budgeted, and fundraised online with the help of his parents. He oversaw the assembly of the fitness apparatuses, dug holes in the ground, and anchored the stations with concrete. With the help of many volunteers and school authorities, he was able to complete the project in November 2020 despite the numerous roadblocks created by the unprecedented situation of the COVID pandemic affecting the entire world.
Neil Deshpande
Neil Deshpande
Neil began the process of his Eagle Scout Project in February 2021, reaching out to Cheri Alexander of Celebrate the Children, a non-profit school for children living with autism, and other challenges in relating and communicating. After touring the grounds of the school and being introduced to some of the challenges that students face, Ms. Alexander gave some pointers on where he could help. He opted to build and install two fitness stations: a pull-up station and a balance beam station, to aid in developing motor skills in children, as many attending students lack these. Additionally, he opted to build and install four benches along a small trail, overlooking the lake and surrounding trees, shrubs, and flower bushes. This will be used for many purposes: an area to host small classes when weather is appropriate, given COVID-19 recommendations to gather outdoors; allow a seating area for students to develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination by painting the scenery; and an area for students to relax, with appropriate supervision.
Neil initiated, drafted, planned, and fundraised for the project with guidance from advisors from within his unit: Troop 72. While executing the project, he was helped by many friends, scouts, and other volunteers, during which, he exhibited leadership traits and problem-solving skills. He oversaw the construction and installation of all components, completing the project before the school year. Today, hundreds of students use the fitness apparatus and lakeside benches installed by Neil.
Derek Kaiser
Derek Kaiser
Derek led and organized others to renovate an existing fenced-in area on the property of St. Peter the Apostle Church in Parsippany to become a functional community garden.
Unwanted plants and shrubs needed to be removed so that raised garden beds could be constructed out of lumber and installed.
Then the area was filled with planting soil and gravel walkways so that visitors could grow plants while providing proper drainage for the garden.
The goal of the project was to allow parishioners to come together outdoors to join in fellowship despite the dire situation of COVID-19 while also benefiting the Church’s food pantry.
Troop 72 was founded in 1954 and served the boys of the Parsippany Area until March 12, 2019. On March 12, 2019, Rev. Msgr. Herbert K. Tillyer signed the Scouts BSA New Unit Application for a Scouts BSA linked troop, thereby creating two Troop 72’s. This opens a new chapter in Troop 72 history, where we can now provide the same outstanding program to both boys and girls.
We have scouts from all parts of Parsippany, and beyond. Going to school at Brooklawn Middle School, Central Middle School, Parsippany High School, Parsippany Hills High School, and other schools outside of the Parsippany public school system.
Troop 72 is sponsored by Saint Peter the Apostle Church and meets in the cafeteria at All Saints Academy. They attend Scout Sunday at Saint Peter’s, and their annual food drive benefits the Saint Peters food pantry.
Troop 72 participates in community service work with multiple churches and civic organizations. They welcome any requests from the community and are always happy to help.
For more information on Scouts BSA Troop 72 Parsippany, click here.
The Kaiser FamilyThe Bhardwaj FamilyThe Deshpande Family
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine – January 2022. Click here to view the complete magazine.
Multiple Individuals at PHHS Tested Positive for COVID-19
COVID-19 was the leading story in 2021, schools in the Parsippany-Troy Hills School district was forced to virtual learning, split sessions, and canceling of many extra extracurricular activities
Parsippany-Troy Hills Maintenance Superintendent Joe Jannarone changing the sign at Parsippany Town Hall
PARSIPPANY — This morning, Parsippany-Troy Hills Maintenance Superintendent Joe Jannarone, traveled around Parsippany to change the signs on all Municipal properties.
In the general election held on November 4, James Barberio won the election with 8,467 votes while Mayor Michael Soriano only captured 7,673.
Council members Peterson and McCarthy did not seek re-election and their term ended on December 31, 2021.
Newly elected Council Members are Justin Musella and Frank Neglia.
Republican Musella received the most votes for a council seat, 8,303 while Republican Neglia received 8,012. Democrat Candidates Judy Hernandez (7,301) and Cori Herbig (7,123).
On January 1, 2022, all of the members of the Council will be Republican.
The swearing-in of Neglia and Musella along with Mayor-Elect James Barberio will be held on Saturday, January 1 at 12:00 Noon at the Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. The event is open to the public. Masks are required.
Removing Mayor Michael Soriano name from Town Hall
Parsippany-Troy Hills Maintenance Superintendent Joe Jannarone carrying the old sign from Parsippany’s Town Hall
Mahender Gorrai, Owner & CEO of Venture X holds a plaque presented to VentureX from Parsippany Economic Development Committee Vice-Chairman Frank Cahill and Mayor Michael Soriano.
PARSIPPANY — The corporate world is constantly changing, not only in how it does business with partners, but how its employees thrive. The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged businesses both big and small to re-think how they survive, function, and continue to flourish with these continuing challenges. How do we meet our goals, and exceed expectations, when there’s so much uncertainty? Venture X understands those challenges and has provided a unique layout to help businesses maintain flexibility and easy accessibility for residents in Parsippany.
The reception area of VentureX
“We wanted to design flexible office and workspaces for flexible employee needs,” says Mahender Gorrai, Owner & CEO of Venture X in Parsippany. “Our design and architecture help enable that kind of flexibility to meet corporate and employee needs, and we’re centrally located, so office accessibility is quick and easy.”
Think of Venture X as a sort of Airbnb or Uber, but for corporate offices. Inside the location, businesses can have fully-enclosed office spaces (from single to multiple users), breakout workspaces for larger groups, to big meeting rooms with immersive presentation capabilities. Venture X has all the corporate needs available to businesses without the massive corporate footprint of owning a building.
Mahender Gorrai, Owner & CEO of Venture gives a tour to Mayor Michael Soriano
“We have meeting rooms, lounge, and kitchen, workspaces available for short stints from an hour to a few weeks, we have dedicated desks and shared workspaces, even virtual memberships where a business can have their presence virtually at this location and receive mail and packages. It’s all about flexibility.”
The idea for a Venture X franchise location in Parsippany came about a few years ago after Gorrai visited a location in Naples, Fla. Designed by Gensler Architecture (who designed both Apple’s and Google’s workspaces), these locations accommodate both an open corporate workspace, as well as an intimate and focused environment to support employee needs.
“By the time our build-out was completed, it was right at the height of COVID-19,” Gorrai says. “That’s made owning a business a real challenge since COVID has continued to just stick around. But we have a range of different office space types set up, which works to the benefit of companies during COVID, to protect workers while ensuring business needs continue to be met. There are also no long-term leases, so if arrangements change, you can change with it.”
The architecture and layout are both open and customizable, with a sharp exterior and communal vibe. In addition to the workspaces, Venture X offers plenty of corporate amenities, like free beverages and snacks, along with a golf simulator, game room, and gym that members can access.
“The businesses that utilize this location really like it because they’re able to interact with each other,” says Gorrai. “Our businesses have a sense of community and togetherness with other groups in this setting. It’s really wonderful.”
Businesses that want to learn more about Venture X can click here or call (973) 969-3850.
Mayor Michael Soriano walking past one of the many conference rooms
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, January 2022
Morris County Young Republican Chair Luke Ferrante and Vice Chair Anthony DeSpirito
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Young Republicans held its annual Christmas Party Fundraiser at Elma’s Turkish and Mediterranean Cuisine Restaurant in Parsippany. During the event, the members of the 2022 MCYR Executive Board took their oaths of office and assumed their leadership positions.
Joe Bock administers the Oath of Office to Chris Paz and Mike Andrejcisk, as Justin Musella holds the bible
The 2022 Leadership consists of the following members:
Luke Ferrante
Chair – Luke Ferrante, Parsippany. Luke graduated from Ramapo College class of 2020 after completing internships at local, state, and federal levels. Luke recently was North Regional Field Director for the Jack Ciattarelli campaign and since has accepted a role on a 2022 congressional campaign.
Vice-Chair – Anthony DeSpirito, Parsippany. Anthony spent time as both a legislative and campaign intern before graduating from Saint Joseph’s University in 2020. In 2021, Anthony was campaign manager for Webber Barranco for Assembly and has since accepted a position as a legislative aide in Assemblyman Jay Webber’s office. Come January 2022, Anthony will be filling the role of Executive Director of the Morris County Republican Committee.
Treasurer – Asad Ullah, Boonton. Asad spent 2021 working for the Jack Ciattarelli campaign after graduating in May 2021 from Seton Hall University.
Secretary – Mike Andrejcisk, Roxbury. Mike served in the Airforce for four years before spending 2021 as an intern for the Jack Ciattarelli campaign. He currently works in airplane maintenance at Newark Airport.
Committeewoman – Gianna Libretti, Florham Park. Gianna, a past intern for Senator Joe Pennacchio, graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and a double minor in Forensic Psychology and Psychology. She is currently in the Master’s program at FDU for Criminal Justice and will graduate in 2022. While earning her master’s she works as a legislative aide for Assemblyman Webber.
Committeeman – Chris Paz, Landing. Chris graduated from Rutgers University Newark in 2019 with a BS in Criminal Justice and BA in Political Science. Since then he has worked both in politics and government in Morris County. Chris has been the MCYR Committeeman for several years and looks forward to continuing his success with a new slate of leadership.
Mike Andrejcisk, Anthony DeSpirito, Luke Ferrante, Gianna Libretti, Chris Paz and Morris County Sheriff James Gannon
The Morris County Young Republicans enjoyed a very successful 2021, as many of its General Members won local campaigns or played an important role in the Governor, State, and local campaigns. Club Members Justin Musella (Parsippany) and Christina Kovacs (Denville) won the election to their first terms in their municipalities. Joe Bock (Boonton Town) and Sarah Neibart (Mendham Township) won their re-election campaigns. Young Republican Kyle Holman and his running mate Christopher Heil won their re-election campaigns to the Chester Borough Council unopposed.
For club voting rights, members must be registered Republicans between ages 18-40 and live in Morris County. However, any supporters outside of those requirements are welcome to join as Associate Members and participate in all events.
For more information or to join the club, please visit the Morris County Young Republicans website by clicking here
Morris County Park Police retire their banner and wear their uniforms for a final time as they are sworn in as Morris County Sheriff Officers
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon presided over a swearing-in ceremony today for Park Police officers who were merged into his agency as sheriff’s officers under actions taken in October by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners and the Morris County Park Commission.
County Sheriff James M. Gannon addressed the swearing-in ceremony
The Morris County Park Police were absorbed by the Sheriff’s Office, effective January 1, 2022, in a move that will keep the 24 park officers on staff and enable an increase in overall park patrols, while addressing insurance coverage issues that arose earlier in the year. The newly sworn officers will become part of a newly formed Patrol Division within the Sheriff’s Office, with Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose serving as chief of the unit.
“This is a historic moment. Today, we join two outstanding law enforcement agencies to create a new, highly trained Patrol Division within my office that will enhance the protection of not only our unique, one-of-a-kind park system, but also all of our county facilities and the Morris County community in general. Under the tutelage of Jack Ambrose, a seasoned, law enforcement veteran who was sworn in as Chief of the new division today, the people of Morris County can expect nothing short of the finest service from this professional team of officers,” said Sheriff Gannon.
The special ceremony was held in the Dragonetti Auditorium at the Student Center at the County College of Morris (CCM) in Randolph.
Jack Ambrose is sworn in as Chief of the new Patrol Unit of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office
Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw and Commissioner John Krickusattended the event with a host of other county dignitaries. Among the attendees, in person and virtually, were Morris County Park Commission Chairman Stuart Lasser, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, CCM President Anthony J. Iacono, and his administrative staff, Morris County Crimestoppers Chairman John Sette, and Washington Township Chief of Police Jeffrey Almer, who is Chairman of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association.
“This ceremony culminates a necessary and prudent consolidation of law enforcement resources that will enhance the safety and enjoyment of our Morris County park system for more than four million people who visit it each year. With more than 20,000 acres of parkland and 39 facilities ranging from golf courses to historic sites, this is the largest county park system in New Jersey and an important community asset that we need to properly protect,” said Commissioner Director Shaw.
“The Park Commission is excited and looks forward to working on the continued protection of the county properties and the public. Sheriff Gannon has been most gracious and fully understands the needs of the Park Commission,” said Park Commission Chairman Lasser.
The decision to merge the state’s last remaining county Park Police department into the Sheriff’s Office was prompted by concerns over insurance coverage for the park officers. It brings the Park Police in line with insurance coverage afforded all other officers in law enforcement agencies throughout New Jersey, particularly in terms of coverage should any legal actions arise in regards to an officer’s performance of his or her duties.
“The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office commends the merger of the former Morris County Park Police into the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. This action provides a beneficial unification of command, improves efficiency, enhances coverages of key County properties, and increases the law enforcement protection of all our communities. The appointment of Jack Ambrose as Chief Warrant Officer adds a highly experienced and respected law enforcement professional to lead the Patrol function and the Morris County Prosecutors Office looks forward to working with the Sheriff and Jack in this new unification,” said Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll.
“I worked with Jack for over 25 years and I have never met such a loyal, natural leader. He is dedicated and motivated, and he will excel in leading this new Patrol Division within the Sheriff’s Office. I can think of no one better suited for this position,” said East Hanover Police Chief Christopher F. Cannizzo.
Ambrose joined the Sheriff’s Office in May 2020 after retiring in November 2019 as a Captain for the East Hanover Police Department following 33 years with the department. For 25 of those years, he helped to train generations of police officers in Morris County and beyond as the lead Drill Instructor and a Physical Training Instructor at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy
The 20,000-plus acres of parkland and 39 facilities making up the park system also include outdoor educational and recreational facilities, arboreta, conservation areas, more than 253 miles of trails, and an ice skating arena. Park activities operate year-round, requiring police presence to ensure the safety of visitors and park employees alike.
At the ceremony, officers officially retired the flag and patch of the Morris County Park Police, and those items will be preserved with county historical artifacts.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano reading Parsippany Focus Magazine
PARSIPPANY — As my tenure as mayor of Parsippany draws to a close at the end of this month, I look back and reflect on what an honor it has been over these past four years to be your mayor. It’s been a privilege to lead the community I have called home for 20 years.
I look back on my time in the office with joy andaccomplishment. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn, myadministration fed hundreds of families with food every week. I got to see the faces of appreciation, and know that the work we did made a difference in families’ lives.
For public safety, we outfitted our policedepartment with body cams, erected a state-of-the-art communication tower, and worked to get the force accredited.
For economic development and eco-responsibility, we completed the township’s first Master Plan since 1976. We re-entered the Highlands Council, and for the first time in township history, achieved bronze status in environmental stewardship through Sustainable Jersey. We implemented a plastic bag ban, which the state has now adopted, and we’re exploring new solar paneling and efficiency standards for our sewers and wastewater treatment.
We embraced Parsippany’s rich diversity through celebration. We raised the Indian flag in honor of Indian Independence Day, brought back the July 4th fireworks in 2021, raised the Italian flag for the Italian Food & Cultural Festival, and raised the pride flag for the entire month of June.
We looked to build the largest park in Parsippany with the nearly completed acquisition of the Kosut property and assisted in the groundbreaking of the Boonton Reservoir Trails project, both of which will open up incredible open space and passiverecreation opportunities for residents. We secured funds to beautify North Beverwyck Road and rebuild the Lake Hiawatha Library.
I will soon rejoin the ranks of a private citizen, and as such I wish my successor the best of luck in his term ahead. I hope he does everything he can to honor all Parsippany residents and is guided by doing what’s right for this community. Whatever political ideology you ascribe to, one thing we can all agree on: Parsippany truly is The Place To Be.
I will leave Town Hall with my head held high, reminded each and every day how many residents have touched my life, and how many memories I have made here. While this chapter may close, for now, I promise I will continue to be an activemember of our township. When I became an elected public servant, it changed me. The desire to help my neighbors live their best lives has become a deeply personal pursuit, and I hope each and every one of you can join me in that pursuit for all of us. When our community works together as a team, asneighbors, as friends, I believe that anything and everything is possible.
Ralph Waldo Emerson said “Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you and give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”
Thank you, Parsippany. May God continue to bless you all.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, December 2020. Click here for the full version.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Italian American Police Society of NJ hosted a Holiday Party for hundreds of children and volunteers from Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Northern New Jersey at the Parsippany Police Athletic League. Santa and Mrs. Claus joined officers to provide toys, gifts, pizza, and gift cards to children in single-parent families.
The Society, founded in 1987, is comprised of more than four thousand local, county, state, and federal law enforcement officers of Italian ancestry. The Society holds several charitable and social events each year and is the state’s largest ethnic law enforcement organization.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany resident Judy Hernandez was one of the newest members to join the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. Club member Frank Cahill sponsored Judy into the club.
Club President Connie Keller said “Kiwanis is something so good that each of us loves to share it. What better way to show our love for our club and our community than to welcome a new member to our club? Today we’re very pleased to welcome Judy to our club. We welcome Judi to our global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.
Judy Hernandez is a 21-year resident of Parsippany living in Glacier Hills with her husband and two children. Her professional experience is as a civil and environmental engineer and environmental advocate. Judy has worked on projects from the proposal, contract, and planning stages to design and construction. She has also sat on Parsippany’s Open Space Committee. Currently, she serves as Vice-Chair on the Parsippany Environmental Advisory Committee and is a member of the Parsippany Green Team. Judy is also involved in her neighborhood association on the civic committee.
Kiwanis Lt. Governor Frank Cahill pins new member Judy Hernandez
The New Jersey District of Kiwanis International currently has 80 active Kiwanis Clubs, with a total of 1395 members. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has a total of 70 active members.
During the pandemic, Kiwanis ‘Feeding our Neighbors” has distributed over 358,400 pounds of food, to 8,980 families, over 17,000 children with a retail value of over $600,000. The next food distribution is scheduled for Saturday, January 22. Any resident that needs food can register at kiwanishelps.org. The registration is 100% confidential and is used to make sure we have enough food at each location. Other locations include Roxbury, Rockaway, Livingston, South Orange, and Maplewood.
“Kiwanis Feeding our Neighbors” was started in December 2019 by Kiwanis Club of Greater Roxbury President Cain Pope and has spread to many Morris County Kiwanis Club and other clubs in New Jersey as far away as Asbury Park, South Orange, Maplewood, Clifton, and Bridgewater.
Kiwanis does not ask for proof of income. The only thing we ask for is name, email address, the town of residence, and the number of children. The information is 100% confidential and is used to make sure we have a sufficient supply of food at each location and for informing the public of future food distributions. We are always looking for donations to support this operation. Click here to make a donation.
“Kiwanis club members believe in service,” said Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Connie Keller. “They care about children. They’re interested in the community around them because the community matters to them. They’re people like you. Friends. Neighbors. Volunteers who want to make a difference.”
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.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany supports ten K-Kids clubs, Lake Parsippany Elementary School, Eastlake Elementary School, Intervale School, Mt. Tabor Elementary School, Littleton Elementary School, Lake Hiawatha Elementary School, Troy Hills Elementary School, Northvail Elementary School, Knollwood School, and Rockaway Meadow Elementary School, two builders clubs, Central Middle School and Brooklawn Middle School; two Key Clubs, Parsippany Hills High School and Parsippany High School and one Aktion Club.
Interested in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, contact President Connie Keller. Click here to view the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany website.
PARSIPPANY — Nikolajs Grinvalds of Lake Hiawatha has been named to the Elmira College Dean’s List for the Fall 2021 Term. Full-time undergraduate students registered for at least 12 computable credit hours and earning a term grade point average of 3.6 or higher at the end of Term I or Term II are placed on the Dean’s List at the College.
Founded in 1855, Elmira College is a private, residential, liberal arts college offering 35-plus majors, an honors program, 17 academic honor societies, and 20 Division III varsity teams. Located in the Southern Finger Lakes Region of New York, Elmira’s undergraduate and graduate student population hails from more than 20 states and nine countries. Elmira is a Phi Beta Kappa College and has been ranked a top college, nationally, for student internships.
The College is also home to the Center for Mark Twain Studies, one of four historically significant Twain heritage sites in the U.S., which attracts Twain scholars and educators from around the world for research on the famous literary icon. Proud of its history and tradition, the College is committed to the ideals of community service, and intellectual and individual growth.
PARSIPPANY — Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce’s bill to increase annual payments to blind and other wartime-service disabled veterans unanimously passed the full Assembly on Monday.
Under the bill (A2559), service members in programs for blind and paralyzed veterans would receive an annual assistance increase to $1,800 from $750.
“The amount given to disabled veterans through these programs has not changed in 40 to 50 years. They earned these annual payments by sacrificing life and limb in selfless service to our country. This increase recognizes their lives were forever changed during the war,” DeCroce (R-Morris) said.
Veterans, who sustained a total loss of sight, are permanently paralyzed in a part of their body, lost a limb through amputation, disease, or an accident as a result of service, and their surviving spouses, are currently entitled to an annual sum of $750, which is paid out monthly.
“Now is an especially appropriate time to pass this bill as consumers face rising costs of food, gas, and everyday goods,” DeCroce said. “It is a small way to extend our gratitude to service members and helps them make ends meet.”
As of March 2021, there were 185 blind and otherwise disabled veterans receiving an allowance under the Blind Veterans’ Allowance Program and the Paraplegic and Hemiplegic Veterans’ Allowance Program. Some veterans may be eligible for both allowance payments.
The last increase for blind veterans was in 1971. The payment under the program for paralyzed veterans has not changed since 1981.
PARSIPPANY — The Township Council presented a “Certificate of Appreciation” to outgoing Council members Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson.
Peterson and McCarthy did not seek re-election and their term ends on December 31, 2021.
They will be replaced by two Republicans, Justin Musella, and Frank Neglia.
The swearing-in of Negia and Musella along with Mayor-Elect James Barberio will be held on Saturday, January 1 at 12:00 Noon at the Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. The event is open to the public. Masks are required.
PARSIPPANY — In the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Chambers, on Monday, December 20, 2021, Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Captain James Carifi held a press conference after settling with the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills for 1 Million Dollars, in a case that was originally filed in 2011.
Christopher Deininger, Esq. congratulates Former Captain James Carifi on the One Million Dollar settlement
The sum of $550,000 was paid out through two Township insurance carriers, Morris County Municipal Joint Insurance Fund and Garden State Municipal Joint Fund. Approximately $368,000 for unused leave balances owed to Carifi, and the remaining (approximately) $82,000 was paid by the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
Current Mayor Michael Soriano and former Mayor (and Mayor-elect) James Barberio did not attend the hearing. Prior to the hearing, in a closed-door meeting, Mayor Michael Soriano presented Carifi with a letter in good standing, a retirement badge, and a retirement ID card. Press was not permitted to attend the meeting.
In a 2011 whistleblower claim, Carifi claimed the Barberio Administration, along with then-Police Chief Michael Peckerman, had conspired against him because he reported improper activities within the department.
As a result, his lawsuit alleged, he was transferred and denied a promotion, resulting in his 2013 retirement.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council unanimously passed a Resolution (R2021-165) on November 23, 2021.
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Captain James Carifi holding a letter in good standing, a retirement badge, and a retirement ID card.
“This is an important day for the township, for Captain James Carifi, and his family,” Soriano wrote. “I want to congratulate Captain Carifi on his career of service to our community. Our township owes him a debt of gratitude, and I’m happy to acknowledge the work he’s done for Parsippany. Thank you, Captain Carifi, and I wish you all the very best.”
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Captain James Carifi delivered the following speech during the press conference:
Today’s announcement and delayed vindication demonstrate that truth and justice always prevail over corruption and coverups, even if it is nearly nine years later.
My good name has been cleared and my status as a law-abiding, law enforcement official is solidly in place through this settlement. I am relieved to be moving forward and putting an end to this difficult time in my life.
Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Captain James Carifi held a press conference after settling with the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills for 1 Million Dollars, in a case that was originally filed in 2011.
This settlement should serve as a strong message and stark warning to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the incoming Barberio administration to stop their political witch-hunt campaigns of burying truthful reports of police corruption and punishing the honorable employees who report wrongdoing and do right by the community and taxpayers.
Had the MCPO acted ethically and taken action to investigate the wrongdoing I reported as opposed to burying information to protect political people, the taxpayers could have avoided this costly process.
During my long, arduous cases, the MCPO continuously buried substantiated information and looked the other way to misconduct within a police department. The MCPO buried information when they were made aware of a former Parsippany Police Chief who submitted a false certification to a Superior Court Judge that a Parsippany Police Officer was using the “Ashley Madison-Life is Short Have an Affair” website for political purposes, when in fact there was never an investigation into this website. The documents are here to prove it. (Click here to read related articles.)
But the audacity of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office doesn’t stop there. Prosecutors then tried to suppress a municipal judge’s probable cause finding against a former Parsippany Police Chief for Official Misconduct for withholding documents that were required to be released to the public. These documents would have shown specific cover-ups. Again, the MCPO went against their sworn duty to abide by the Court’s probable cause finding and looked the other way.
Next, two years after I retired, I was served on Christmas Eve with bogus disciplinary charges from the Parsippany Police Department under the direction of the Barberio administration. The Hearing Officer that was hired by the Township to hear this matter was told informally that he was not going to be paid unless he ruled in the Township’s favor. Thankfully the hearing officer did not succumb to this threat and ruled in my favor, based on the evidence. Several years later, after Barberio was voted out of office, the Hearing Officer wrote to Mayor Soriano asking to be paid for his services, which had been denied payment for almost two years by the Barberio Administration. Not only did the Barberio Administration threaten this Hearing Officer, but they also followed through with the threat by refusing to pay him. Again, when this information was brought to the MCPO they chose to bury it and take no action. (Click here to read document)
Moving forward, incoming and current Parsippany council members must stop tolerating a Mayor who abuses his or her power to wrongly prey upon principled employees who stand up for what is right.
To put into proper context the extent of the Morris County Prosecutors went into suppressing evidence and abandoning their sworn commitment to uphold the law, I have all of the supportive documentation for your review and reference.
With that being said, I am grateful to finally receive vindication for the attempts to smear my reputation, attempts to bring false charges against me, and attempts to prevent receipt of my pension. I want to thank the entire police pension board for unanimously voting in my favor and for their comments to the township attorney that he should be ashamed of himself for playing politics with my pension.
I can’t adequately thank my family enough for supporting me during this entire ordeal, especially my mother who did not live to see this day but now can rest in peace with this settlement outcome. Thanks to my entire legal team and some of the members of the Parsippany Police Department who maintained their integrity in spite of their fear of political retaliation and did not let that dissuade them from providing truthful testimony. I truly appreciate my loyal and dedicated friends who stood by me and encouraged me to continue to fight until justice prevailed.
As painstaking as this ordeal was, I hope my case serves as an inspiration to all dedicated employees elsewhere who stand up to corruption and do not give up no matter how ugly the journey gets. The truth will always prevail – this settlement and this badge prove it.
Carifi’s attorney Christopher Deininger, Esq., attended the press conference and answered questions of reporters
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Murphy signed legislation (S-2559) that extends for the next two years the requirement adopted at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic that health benefits plans reimburse health care providers for telehealth and telemedicine services at the same rate as in-person services, with limited exceptions. At the same time, the legislation charges the Department of Health with conducting an in-depth study of the utilization of telehealth and telemedicine and its effects on patient outcomes, quality and satisfaction, and access to care in order to inform future decisions on payment structure for these services. This legislation will provide critical support to patients and providers while the State continues to address the challenges posed by the pandemic, and while the Department of Health evaluates how to best leverage payment and telemedicine to improve access to affordable care and maintain the highest quality of care possible.
“Telehealth and telemedicine services have been critical during the COVID-19 pandemic and will stay with us long after the pandemic is over,” said Governor Murphy. “New Jerseyans have greater access to the health care they need with the proliferation and expansion of these services, and with this legislation, we are ensuring that this new technology can remain viable as we emerge from the pandemic while also ensuring that New Jersey remains at the forefront of innovative health care policy that serves all New Jerseyans.”
“Throughout this pandemic, telemedicine has been a lifeline to vital health care services for many—especially those in underserved communities,” said Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli.”The Department will thoroughly assess the impact of pay parity in telehealth and telemedicine services and make thoughtful recommendations for the future.”
“In response to the pandemic, the state put in place measures to increase access to telehealth to ensure patients could visit a doctor or other medical provider remotely to receive care,” said Department of Banking and Insurance Commissioner Marlene Caride. “Telehealth remains a vital access point for health care, and this law continues to provide that access to residents while creating a process for the state to assess how the policy is working and to allow for any needed changes. This is a meaningful change that will assist residents in getting the health care they need, with the flexibility to visit a health care provider remotely from their own homes.”
First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood and Assistant Robert Gross
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood announce the hiring of Robert J. Gross, Jr. as Assistant Prosecutor for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Assistant Prosecutor Gross was officially sworn in by First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood at the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office on December 20. Assistant Prosecutor Gross will be assigned to the Specialized Services Unit.
Assistant Prosecutor Gross began his legal career as a law clerk in 2019 for Judge Peter F. Bariso, Jr. at the Superior Court of New Jersey, 6th Vicinage in Jersey City. He served as an assistant prosecutor at the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Juvenile Unit from 2020 until starting with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. He has held internships and externships with the Exxon Mobil Corporation, Centre County Court of Common Pleas in Pennsylvania, Warren County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey Office of the Attorney General Division of Criminal Justice-Appellate Bureau, and the New York County District Attorney’s Office-Investigations Division-Rackets Bureau.
He also volunteered with the Penn State Law Veteran’s Clinic. Assistant Prosecutor Gross holds a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Pennsylvania State University, paralegal certification from Georgetown University, and a Juris Doctorate from Penn State Law. Prosecutor Carroll said, “I believe Assistant Prosecutor Gross will make a fine addition to our prosecutorial team.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Marie Ali applauded the Board of Commissioners for its selection of Tayfun Selen (Chatham Township) as Commission Director and John Krickus (Washington Township) as Deputy Director to lead the County in 2022.
“Tayfun Selen and John Krickus will be a dynamic, fiscally conservative leadership team for Morris County government over the next 12 months and will continue to hold the line on taxes, invest in infrastructure, and lead our county’s recovery from the pandemic. They represent the very best of our party,” said Chairwoman Ali. “Tayfun, in particular, has been a part of three straight budgets that avoided property tax increases at the local and county levels.”
Ali said that the 2022 leadership team was unanimously supported at the annual caucus, and Morris County Republican leadership has been integral in making Morris the state’s number one County and the best place to live in all of New Jersey. Last June, major financial rating agencies including Moody’s and S&P Global again awarded their highest-possible “AAA” rating to Morris County, continuing a legacy as one of the best financially-run counties in America.
Tayfun Selen is a proven fiscal conservative, experienced businessman, and American success story. Selen immigrated from Turkey with a degree in architecture in 1996, pumping gas and working entry-level jobs before earning an MBA and his CPA license. He earned his U.S. citizenship in 2008 and managed major corporate real estate operations leading over 100 employees and several hundred million dollar budgets. Today, he is an executive with a major national vocational school group.
Selen previously served as Chatham Township Mayor, and later filled a vacancy on the Morris County Commission and earned a full-term in 2020.
Tayfun is married with one daughter and has lived in Morris County for the past 23 years, including 19 years in the Chathams.
John Krickus will be starting his third three-year term on the board. He is a member of the Budget Committee producing three straight years of no county tax increase and the Strategic Planning Advisory Committee that has been key to maintaining the County’s AAA finance rating during the pandemic. He also is the liaison to the Morris County Improvement Authority, the County College of Morris and Morris County School of Technology, and the Chamber of Commerce/Economic Development.
Commissioner Krickus served as a Marine Corps veteran and a graduate of Drew University with a BA in Economics and Political Science. He received his MBA from Lehigh University and was a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in New Jersey.
Previously, he served on the Washington Township Committee for 12 years, including three years as Mayor. Born and raised in Madison, he now lives in Long Valley with his wife Carolyn.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners unveiled a $67,242,800 million capital spending plan that expands educational programs at the Morris County School of Technology, while aggressively investing in improvements to county roads, intersections, bridges, and culverts.
The board’s Capital Budget Committee, which includes Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw, Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, and Commissioner Tayfun Selen, outlined the plan during a work session, additionally pointing to funds earmarked for public safety, public health, parks, and improving information technology.
“This capital plan contains $14 million to resurface 25.6 miles of roads in 15 towns, $2.8 million to improve key intersections and dedicates nearly $7 million so that Morris County will continue to lead the state with its bridge and culvert upgrades,” said Commissioner Director Shaw.
“This plan also makes good on the commitment our board made this past summer for a 30 percent expansion of the Morris County Vocational School with a new Career Technical Education Center, as well as an investment in the continuing expansions and improvements at the County College of Morris,” Shaw added.
The 2022 Capital Spending Highlights Include:
Improving our County Road Network
$2.8 in Intersection Upgrades, including:
Flanders Netcong Road and Main Street Intersection with Route 206, Mount Olive
Boonton Avenue at Taylortown Road, Montville Township
Guide Rail Upgrades and Installations throughout the County
$14.0 million for roadway resurfacing, including:
2.2 miles of Fairmount Road in Washington Township
2.2 miles of Green Pond Road in Rockaway and Jefferson Townships
2.5 miles of Park Avenue from Columbia Turnpike to Route 124 in Madison, Florham Park, and Morris Township
2.5 miles of Village Road in Harding Township
$6.83 million for bridge and culverts projects, including:
Dickson’s Mill Road Bridge in Harding Township
Pleasant Hill Road Bridge in Mount Olive
Commitment to Education:
$25.3 million for the School of Technology’s construction of its new Career Technical Education Center at the County College of Morris and Science Lab upgrades with $18.8 million coming from a State Grant
$5.2 million at the County College for facility accessibility upgrades and Academic Complex roof replacementHurd Street Bridge in Mine Hill Township
Other 2021 Capital Spending Highlights Include:
$1.9 million for Information Technology Upgrades and Improvements
$1.7 million for the Morris County Park System
$4.1 million for 451 new voting machines to comply with new voting laws
$1 million for Public Safety Enhancements
$550,000 for County Owned Railroad Upgrades
$366,000 for Health Management and Mosquito Control
The slide show presented by the Capital Budget Committee may be viewed by clicking here.
The $67.2 million plan reflects a commitment of $36,875,294 million by the county, which will be offset by an anticipated $30,367,506 million in grants.
Morris County government has a massive and diverse inventory of responsibilities, ranging from the Morris County Administration Building in Morristown to Human Services and Law & Public Safety complexes in Morris Township and Parsippany. The infrastructure includes:
287 miles of county roads in all 39 Morris County municipalities
1,000 bridges and culverts throughout all Morris County municipalities
3 Freight Railroads
1,185 vehicles and or pieces of equipment used by various county agencies
3.3 million square feet of buildings and structures
The County of Morris also is responsible for:
Maintaining all trees within county road rights-of-way
Facilities required by the Judiciary, Sheriff, Law and Public Safety
Mosquito Control services throughout all Morris County
MORRIS COUNTY — Melissa Florance-Lynch announced her candidacy for Morris County Commissioner as she will join the ticket with Commissioners Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo.
“I am very excited to both announce my candidacy for Morris County Commissioner and to join the ticket with Commissioners Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo. As a lifelong resident of Pequannock Township and as someone who has taken a very active role in our community, I know there is a lot of work that needs to be done to continue to maintain the high quality of living that Morris County residents have come to expect and enjoy. My promise to Morris County is to continue to fight to keep taxes low, improve our parks, preserve open space, and support our law enforcement community to keep our communities safe. I look forward to speaking with the voters of Morris County to earn your vote to serve as the next Morris County Commissioner,” said Florance-Lynch. Florance-Lynch brings significant experience to the Mastrangelo, Cabana, Florance-Lynch ticket as she has:
• Served 11 years on Pequannock Town Council and two years as Mayor
• Is a successful Broker Associate / Sales Manager of Local Real Estate Firm
• Serves on Multiple Township Committees and Boards as Council Liaison
• A Member of Pequannock Valley Rotary, Pequannock Chamber of Commerce, Suburban Woman’s Club of Pompton Plains
“Morris County is very fortunate to have someone that is of the caliber of Melissa Florance-Lynch seeking the opportunity to serve on the Morris County Board of Commissioners. She has been successful in stabilizing municipal taxes, making improvements to parks, has been instrumental with flood mitigation projects such as FEMA house elevations, and working to significantly advance critical water and sewer projects in Pequannock. Melissa’s love of public service is infectious, and we are very excited to both welcome and work with Melissa as our running mate as we begin our campaign for the Morris County Board of Commissioners,” stated Cabana and Mastrangelo.
The Township Council presented a “Certificate of Appreciation” to outgoing Council members Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson.
