PARSIPPANY — Mr. Joshusa Yang, 87, was traveling westbound on Route 46 and ran off the roadway to the right, struck the right-hand curb, and continued west on the grass adjacent to the roadway, and crashed head-on into a utility pole. This accident happened on Saturday, October 9 at 11:44 a.m.
The vehicle struck a utility pole
Mr. Yang was driving a 2006 Lexus R33 when the vehicle rotated clockwise coming to uncontrolled rest within the right westbound lane.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Thomas determined the cause of the crash was due to driver inattention.
PARSIPPANY — Positions Available with the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills. There are lots of great employment opportunities available with the Township and its partners. Check it out!
Department of Public Works – Seasonal Workers
The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is seeking individuals 18 years of age or older to work as a laborer on the back of Township garbage trucks picking up recyclable and/or yard waste materials from now through November. Hours are 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; the hourly rate is $15.00.
PARSIPPANY — Paul Miller Porsche held a “Drive for a Cure” to bring awareness to Breast Cancer Awareness.
Drive for a Cure
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer.
The past year has posed a challenge to just about everything, and breast cancer prevention is no exception. Although we saw setbacks in screenings and early detection, we’re rising to the challenge together.
Porsche owners met at Paul Miller Porsche, 3419 Route 46, for a Drive for a Cure to “Blue Ridge Winery.
The crew met for coffee and donuts
The crew met for coffee and donuts, lined up at 9:45 a.m. for their departure.
When they arrived at Blue Ridge they enjoyed a complimentary wine tasting. Lunch was provided by Rouge Taco, which is located at the winery. Then the owners had a day filled with numerous activities and beautiful views.
Blue Ridge Winery is located at 239 Blue Ridge Road, Saylorsburg, PA.
For every car, Paul Miller donated $200 to Breast Cancer Awareness.
All owners received a gift bagFor every car, Paul Miller donated $200 to Breast Cancer Awareness.For every car, Paul Miller donated $200 to Breast Cancer Awareness.
PARSIPPANY — Ronald Daniel Orthwein, 75, passed away, on October 3, peacefully in his sleep at home in Florida. He was born to Daniel and Lydia (née Steinke) Orthwein and raised in Chicago, IL. He was drafted into the US Army and then worked for Pfizer Inc., as a logistics manager for 37 years in Chicago, New Jersey, and New York.
In 2020, he relocated to Stuart, Florida with his wife to enjoy his sunset years in his dream home.
Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life planned for December 4, 2021, in Parsippany. Details to follow.
Ron is remembered most for his tireless commitment to volunteering for Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, an organization that works to improve the lives of children everywhere. He was a fixture in the Parsippany Troy-Hills school district as the Kiwanis Director of Sponsored Youth, where he helped children reach their own goals in community service. He loved golf and spent many Sunday afternoons at the Knoll Country Club with family and friends.
His compassion quips, and stubbornness will be sorely missed.
Ron is survived by his wife, Frances (nee Colonna), his children, Robert, Allison (Evan Johnson) Orthwein, and Sarah (Huw) Edwards, his brother Wayne (Patti) Orthwein, and dozens of nieces & nephews.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Kiwanis Club of Parsippany, Post Office Box 5342, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054 (Click here); Cystic Fibrosis Research Inc. (https://www.cfri.org); or to a charity of your choice.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Township Council Debate October 15, 2021. The League of Women Voters of the Morristown Area and the Woman’s Club of Parsippany co-host a debate for candidates running for the office of Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Council on October 15, 2021. Four candidates are vying for two seats: Justin Musella, Republican, Judith Hernandez, Democrat, Frank Neglia, Republican, and Cori A. Herbig, Democrat. This recording is owned and copyrighted by the League of Women Voters and can only be shared in its entirety.
PARSIPPANY — Mayor Soriano did not misuse taxpayer dollars to purchase a banner congratulating the Parsippany 2020 graduating class. The cost for the banner was, in fact, reimbursed to the town by the Soriano Civic Association with check number 118 (see below). It demonstrates unequivocally that the allegations launched by former Mayor Barberio against Mayor Soriano yesterday are completely false and just an unsuccessful effort to distract voters from his own corrupt history. (See article relating to the allegations)
PARSIPPANY — The League of Women Voters of the Morristown Area and the Woman’s Club of Parsippany co-host a debate for candidates running for the office of Mayor on October 14, 2021. Two candidates are vying for one seat. Democrat and incumbent Michael Soriano and Republican James R. Barberio.
This recording is owned and copyrighted by the League of Women Voters and can only be shared in its entirety.
MORRIS COUNTY — Join for Career Carnival for Kids, an interactive, fun-filled, and FREE program where elementary and middle school kids can meet volunteers from companies and organizations across a variety of industries, including Goryeb Children’s Hospital, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), AWWA NJ, Cerbo Lumber, County College of Morris, M&T Bank, Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph, ShopRite, Weis, and more!
Career Carnival for Kids will be held on Sunday, October 24 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Horseshoe Lake Park, 72 Eyland Avenue, Roxbury.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office is sponsoring this special event in partnership with the Borough of Roxbury Township and the Roxbury Police Department. In addition, the Sheriff is sending four of the county’s top-notch units – K9, Hope One, COPS, and Law Enforcement Exploring – to educate attendees about the important work they do.
Enjoy games, giveaways, and other goodies, and spark some curiosity about the amazing world of work. Online registration is encouraged but not required.
PARSIPPANY — You may be busy raising your family or serving as a caregiver for relatives and regret not having the time to help improve your community. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and Sons of Italy #2561 has a solution to that dilemma.
On Thursday, October 21, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., you can help improve the lives of others and have fun while doing so by attending the Kiwanis annual wine tasting at the Hanover Manor in East Hanover.
This Wine Tasting is the Kiwanis Club’s largest fundraising event with the goal of supporting programs that benefit children and youth.
The local programs funded by the Kiwanis Club include sponsored youth programs in the Parsippany-Troy Hills school district, such as Key Clubs in both high schools, Builders Clubs in the middle schools, and K-Kids Clubs in all of the elementary schools; Parsippany Day Care Center; Parsippany Library; the Stickley Farms family fun day and numerous other 501(c)3 organizations that serve children and families. In addition to this financial support of children’s leadership development and service initiatives, the club meets the basic needs of the less fortunate families in our community by providing food and food cards, toiletry items, and blankets through a partnership with the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Community Center. The Club also supports state and national organizations that serve the needs of children and their families.
Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 was founded as a non-profit organization, which contributes thousands of dollars to worthwhile local charities and families. The lodge is proud to be able to serve a small portion of needs to our local communities. Donations include, but are not limited to, The Parsippany Food Pantry, High School Scholarships, Gift cards to families in need, The Valerie Fund, Alzheimer’s, and many others.
Joe Canal is a major sponsor of the wine tasting event. The event includes silent and live auctions; a delicious hot and cold buffet; wines and liquors; and an opportunity to help raise money and do good for others.
In addition, Kane Brewing Company specializing in brewing American and Belgian-style ales will be sampling their products at the event.
Tickets are only $65 each. Kiwanis is a 501(C)3 organization and your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
If you would like to purchase tickets, click here, or call Frank Cahill (862) 213-2200.
For more information on The Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 visit www.soi2561.org. For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany click here.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany’s Mayoral Candidates will debate Thursday night, at 7:00 p.m. The event will be a virtual forum between Mayor Michael Soriano and former Mayor James Barberio. The winner of the election will determine who will be taking over on January 1, 2022.
The League of Women Voters of the Morristown Area and the Women’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills are co-sponsoring the debate. The public can view the event on the League of Women Voters chapter’s YouTube channel, live and afterward.
A debate between the Parsippany Township Council candidates will take place on the same YouTube channel at 7:00 p.m. Friday.
Barberio, a Republican, served as Parsippany’s mayor from 2010-18. Soriano, a Democrat, defeated him in the 2017 election.
PARSIPPANY — With just three weeks until election day, the 32 BJ SEIU is the latest high-profile endorsement for the Team Soriano Campaign. The Service Employees International Union, which represents over 13,000 members in New Jersey, joins a long list of elected officials, organizations, and community leaders supporting Mayor Michael Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez – including the Parsippany-Troy Hills Education Association, Former Police Chief Miller, and the League of Conservation Voters.
“It is clear from the robust support from unions, law enforcement, and advocacy organizations that Mayor Soriano, Cori Herbig, and Judy Hernandez are the best team to lift up and protect working families in Parsippany,” said Campaign Manager, Elise McGovern.
Team Soriano is proud to have received the following endorsements from supporters throughout the state, including overwhelming labor union backing. Read the full list of endorsements below:
PARSIPPANY — The Community of St. Ann Church in Parsippany is hosting its tenth annual Fall Festival (formerly the Craft Fair) on Friday, November 12 from 5:000 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, November 13from 9:0 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
St. Ann’s has booked a number of new and repeat vendors, including Stitching Queens, Avon, and Pampered Chef who will be here along with numerous other vendors offering various handmade crafts. The fair will also include a Ministry Table, bake sale, Tricky Tray, and a 50 – 50.
St. Ann’s is located at 781 Smith Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054.
I previously endorsed Mayor Michael Soriano for reelection earlier this summer after my retirement. In 19 days, Parsippany voters will have the opportunity to reelect Michael Soriano to a second term, and I’d again like to express my support and admiration for his continued leadership in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
During my thirty years as a police officer in Parsippany, particularly three years as Chief of Police, Mayor Soriano exhibited the highest level of administrative leadership necessary for such a large and diverse community as Parsippany.
Immediately assessing from day one that the Police Department needed to be an Accredited agency with the NJ State Association of Chiefs of Police, a Community Policing function and involvement at the Police Athletic League (PAL), police bodycam deployment, and completion of the Emergency Services Communication System upgrade, Mayor Soriano quickly got to work.
During his first term, despite the pandemic shutdown, Mayor Soriano impressively and effectively ensured those critical functions were initiated and completed. To date, the Community Policing function has thrived in all facets of the Township. The Emergency Services Communication System upgrade is complete. And police bodycam deployment and Accreditation are nearing completion. From Day one, Mayor Soriano immediately addressed the need for these crucial programs. I was proud to help lead their development working hand-in-hand with the Mayor.
With a near city-size population; a correspondingly large government and Emergency Services function; and a network of interstate, state, county, and local thoroughfare roadways intersecting the entire township, the highest level of administrative and managerial attention is critically important.
Mayor Soriano’s clear vision continued commitment, constant engagement with all department heads and community leaders exemplifies the leadership and attention Parsippany needs.
For those residents who have a more intimate knowledge of how municipal government operates, and what is required for it to succeed, they know politics have less of an influence on success. Rather, sustainable success comes from a realistic vision and committed hard work through the difficult times, all of which Mayor Soriano has provided and will continue to deliver.
Ranked one of the best municipalities in NJ, Parsippany is not immune from the pandemic and fiscal difficulties still being experienced throughout our country. Despite these significant challenges, Mayor Soriano has and continues to effectively lead Parsippany while remaining focused and committed to the real issues.
Whether national, state or local government, a second term is where the vision, hard work and continued commitment come to fruition and ultimate success.
Parsippany deserves the best and Mayor Michael Soriano will continue to deliver that success.
Respectfully, Andrew Miller PTHPD Chief of Police (Ret.)
PARSIPPANY — Democratic Candidate for New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy was a guest speaker on September 30 at the Parsippany Hilton during the “Meet The Candidate Speaker Series” sponsored by the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.
Governor Phil Murphy
Philip Murphy took the oath of office as New Jersey’s 56th governor on January 16, 2018. Under his leadership, New Jersey has made strides in creating and expanding economic opportunity while shrinking long-standing inequities, restoring fiscal responsibility, delivering real property tax relief, growing the state’s economy, and investing in its people. Murphy has guided New Jersey from being the epicenter of the national pandemic to a model state for restart and recovery with a focus on careful statewide and regional planning to protect residents and save lives. Murphy has built broad partnerships for aggressive COVID testing and vaccinations.
His administration has provided hundreds of millions of dollars in direct relief to small businesses, schools, tenants and landlords, and middle-class families. Governor Murphy has also made New Jersey a model state for social justice, signing legislation enacting among the country’s strongest automatic voter registration measures and restoring voting rights to residents on parole or probation, expunging the records of numerous nonviolent offenders, and creating the nation’s strongest provisions for environmental justice.
The Gubernatorial Speaker Series concludes with a Democratic candidate and incumbent, Governor Phil Murphy. Murphy discussed his platform and took questions from attendees.
Attendees listening to Governor Phil MurphyAttendees at Morris County Chamber of Commerce “Meet the Candidate Speaker Series”Dover Mayor Carolyn Blackman with Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael SorianoThe program
IBEW Local 102 sponsored the event. Since 1900, the members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 102 (IBEW Local 102) have served the communities of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Providing a skilled workforce of electricians is something we take pride in. It is our goal to ensure every job is on time and on budget.
For more information about the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, click here.
Usually, when political campaigns engage in underhanded tactics many of us sit back and watch without acting. However, a recent letter to the editor and the subsequent sharing of it by one of the Democratic candidates should be addressed. Cori Herbig and these actions should make all of us concerned for the future of politics in our community. Many of us have sat back and watched our town deteriorate beyond recognition due to the actions of this current administration and long desperately for change. We have seen our taxes increase, developments are negotiated, and a remarkable disregard for the employees of Town Hall. Ms. Herbig is running with Mayor Soriano to continue and support this abominable record of poor management, and what concerns me the most is the desperation in their campaign in preventing Justin Musella from winning.
Justin has been a staple of events in our community, making time and effort to attend every invitation made to him. While I believe we’re all community leaders, he has made it clear that he stands with the Indian American community without any reservations and has proven himself time and time again to be a reliable friend. He has shown that if elected, he will be a true ally to not only us, but all residents in this town regardless of their background or political affiliation. Herbig however, has made a name for herself attacking people on issues that she has little understanding of, including Soriano’s own former running mates. It truly is a shame that Herbig has decided she cannot run a campaign purely based on the issues, especially considering there are so many that affect residents daily.
Musella has made it clear, whoever wins the Mayor’s race in November would have to do what is in the best interests of the residents or face opposition from him. McCarthy and Peterson have set the standard for real representation and standing up for what they believe is right, even if it goes against the best interests of their party. Musella would continue this and prevent overreach from the executive. Herbig on the other hand would operate as an arm of Soriano and ultimately put the party first.
Let us put Herbig’s ugly and divisive campaign strategy behind us and hope that she and her running-mates come to their senses and run a respectful and engaging campaign without personal attacks.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano presented a proclamation to the family of the late Arthur W. Vespignani on Tuesday, October 5 at a council meeting.
Dr. Joseph Vespignani and his son SantinoThe plaque is hanging in Parsippany-Troy Hills Municipal Building
Vespignani began his 13-year service to the Township as an employee. He began his career in 1993 and was appointed as Director of Municipal Utilities in 1997 until his retirement in 2006.
He served his community as a member of the Township’s Board of Adjustment and having been elected to the Township Council, serving as President from 1980 – 1981.
Arthur was a dedicated public official, serving as an assistant counsel to the New Jersey General Assembly in the mid-70’s, and as President of the Parsippany Republican Club.
He was involved in community athletic programs for youth, serving for many years as a member of the Board of Directors for both the Parsippany Soccer Club and Par-Troy Little League East, and as coach and manager on all levels from minor league baseball to senior league all-stars, as well as travel team soccer.
Dr. Joseph Vespignani and Santino with Mayor Michael Soriano
MORRIS COUNTY — Longtime Morris County Republican leader and conservative small businessman Larry Casha has launched his campaign for Congress in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District.
“It is time we stop accepting the unacceptable! I am tired of liberal politicians, like Mikie Sherrill and some weak Republicans propped up by special interests, that perpetuate a culture in Washington of accepting the unacceptable. Like everyone else, I have had enough of the riots in our streets, the lawlessness at our southern border, forced vaccinations, the cancel culture which attacks our Constitution, out-of-control spending, and the ever-growing federal debt.”
Casha continued, “I have been a leader amongst New Jersey conservatives for over twenty-five years. Mikie Sherrill and the radical California liberals who literally fund her campaigns so that they can put a nickel in her pocket every time they need a buck from New Jersey taxpayers are out of control. I am taking my activism to the next level and putting my name on the ballot to stop the madness. You can count on me to never back down.”
“If my lifelong neighbors in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District want a candidate who will run an aggressive campaign to win and a Congressman that will never forget where he came from, I am their guy,” said Casha.
New Jersey’s 11th congressional district is a suburban district in northern New Jersey. The district includes portions of Essex, Morris, Passaic, and Sussex Counties; it is centered in Morris County. It is one of the ten most affluent congressional districts in the United States.
MORRIS COUNTY — It was a beautiful fall night at the River River Barn to celebrate Columbus Day and the candidacy for the re-election of Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, Deputy Director Deborah Smith, and Commissioner John Krickus.
Celebrating Columbus Day
The attendees included a guest list of Morris Counties Powerful Elected Officials and local voters showing their support for the candidates.
Jonathan Cohen, Esq.,; Jeffrey Paul, Director at Morris County Office of Emergency Management; Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi; and Boonton Ward 3 Council Member Joe BockMorris County Sheriff James Gannon and Senator Joe PennachioMorris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, Commissioner John Krickus, Deputy Director Deborah Smith, Senator Anthony Bucco, Jonathan Sym, and Senator Joe PennachioFlorham Park Mayor Mark Taylor and Rockaway Borough Mayor Thomas MulliganJonathan Cohen, Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, and CD11 Candidate Paul DeGrootLisa Chase LoBiondo; CD11 Candidate Paul DeGroot and Donald DinsmoreCristina Mirda with Morris County Commissioner Deborah SmithOlivia Cohen, Jonathan Cohen with Melissa Lynch
Deborah Smith joined the board on January 3, 2016, and she is now serving her second, three-year term. She served as Director last year and was elected by her peers on January 4, 2021, to lead the board as Commissioner Deputy Director for a new year.
She also is chair of the County Budget Committee and is a voting member of the Insurance Fund Commission, and is the liaison to the County Administration and Finance departments.
Previously, Commissioner Smith served on the Denville Council for 20 years, with two years as Council President and two years as the Council’s Planning Board Member. She also served on the Denville Zoning Board prior to her Council tenure.
Commissioner Smith has long served her community, volunteering for many community activities. She was the Township Council’s liaison to the Denville Public Library, senior citizens’ organizations, the local historical society, fire department, and many other groups.
While serving on the Denville Council she cast the key vote that prevented potential development and led to the eventual acquisition and preservation of 420 pristine acres of former Jersey City watershed land, a site now named Jonathan Woods.
A graduate of Long Island University in Brooklyn, N.Y. with a BS in Mathematics and a Masters in Counseling, she received a Certified Financial Planning degree from Adelphi University, completed a Certificate in Municipal Government from Rutgers, and participated in the CTW Excellence in Public Service Series.
Commissioner Smith had careers in market and media research with AC Nielsen and Simmons Market Research Bureau, worked in financial markets as a stockbroker and commodity broker, and was an advertising director for a New Jersey rehabilitation magazine, before starting a 25-year-career with Dun & Bradstreet as a Key Accounts Manager. In November 2014, Commissioner Smith retired from D&B.
Commissioner Smith resides in Denville with her husband Steven, a small business owner in Randolph.
Stephen H. Shaw is a lifelong resident of New Jersey and has lived in Morris County for more than five decades. He is serving his first term on the board and was elected by his peers on January 4, 2021, to be Commissioner Director for 2021.
He also chairs the county’s Capital Budget and Facilities Review Committee and the Strategic Planning Advisory Committee, which has been key to Morris County retaining its AAA financial rating throughout the pandemic. He is a voting member of the County College of Morris and Morris County School of Technology Boards of School Estimate, as well as liaison to the County Public Works.
Commissioner Shaw moved back to his hometown of Mountain Lakes 22 years ago and became active in public service, was elected to the borough council for 12 years, and was selected by his peers as mayor for three of those years.
He was a member of the Mountain Lakes Planning Board for seven years and was named “Mountain Lakes Police Citizen of the Year” in 2012. He also served his community as a leader of the Vestry of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Mountain Lakes.
Commissioner Shaw was a member and Vice-Chair of the Morris County Open Space Trust Fund Committee, assisting in the preservation of the Giralda Farms Preserve at Loantaka Brook Reservation in Chatham Township with a $10 million Morris County Open Space grant.
Professionally, Commissioner Shaw owns and operates a small family contracting business and has been president of his local and state builder’s trade association.
He is a graduate of New Jersey Institute of Technology; Newark College of Engineering, with a BS in Civil Engineering; and in 2006 was named their “Outstanding Alumnus.” In addition, he is a licensed New Jersey real estate agent, a licensed private pilot, is married, and has two adult children and one grandchild.
John has served six years on the Morris County Board of Commissioners, during which time he did not vote for a tax increase and served on the budget committee which created the first 0 tax increase budgets in twenty years.
While holding the line on taxes other accomplishments include eliminating health benefits for Commissioners, doubling the miles of county roads repaved each year, providing the first increase in county aid to the County College of Morris, and sponsoring a change in the open space program which allowed for existing funding to go for trail development.
Prior to his term as Commissioner, John served as a committeeman in Washington Township, three of those years as Mayor. Key accomplishments include the third lowest municipal tax burden in the county and preservation of over 4,000 acres of farmland and open space.
John was born and raised in Madison, is a Marine Corps veteran, received a BA in economics from Drew University and an MBA from Lehigh University, and is a CPA. John has over 30 years of business experience as a product manager.
John and his wife Carolyn reside in Long Valley with their two daughters Kelly and Casey. Carolyn, Kelly, and Casey all are volunteer EMTs, and Carolyn currently serves as a captain for the Long Valley First Aid squad.
MORRIS COUNTY — Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce (R-Morris, Essex, Passaic) has submitted legislation in Trenton that would stabilize water and sewage fees for senior citizens and the disabled.
The bill would amend current law to allow any county and municipal sewerage authorities, as well as water purveyors, to reduce or stabilize fees to users of the water or sewerage systems 65 years or older.
DeCroce said the bill help offset increasing property taxes in New Jersey.
“There are so many ways that the state and local governments reach into the pockets of homeowners and renters in New Jersey besides property taxes,” said DeCroce. “All those added taxes and fees add up and make New Jersey unaffordable for many, especially for retired people. The state legislature must begin addressing the hidden taxes and fees that no one talks about.”
DeCroce said stabilizing sewer and water fees would protect seniors and the disabled from escalating fees that she predicts will go demonstrably higher in coming years. “The history of New Jersey is steadily increasing user fees; rarely do we see fees going down,” added DeCroce.
The assemblywoman noted that with Congress poised to pass a $1.5 billion infrastructure package – sewer and water utilities will begin undertaking needed improvements to their systems. She said she fears that the costs not covered by federal funds will be passed on to ratepayers.
“The state cannot burden senior citizens living on fixed incomes with higher fees for essential services,” added DeCroce.