PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board heard two applications for multi-level housing to be constructed on Campus Drive by Roseland Residential Trust.
The first Application No. 20:516 has been approved by the Planning Board.
2 Campus LLC., made an application to the Planning Board seeking site plan approval, together with variance, waiver, and exception relief from certain requirements of the Township Zoning Ordinance, in connection with the construction of a 172-unit residential building and associated site improvements on property located at 2 Campus Drive (Block 202, Lot 3.20); 4 Campus Drive (Block 202, Lot 3.2); and 1633 Littleton Road (Block 202, Lot 3.1).
Units
COAH Units
1 Bedroom
76
7
2 Bedrooms
89
21
3 Bedrooms
7
7
Total Units
172
35
Roseland Residential Trust, a subsidiary of Mack-Cali Realty Corporation was formed to own, manage, and develop Mack-Cali’s luxury multi-family residential portfolio.
A similar complex built by Roseland Residential Trust at 250 Johnson Road, Morris Plains
Application No. 20:520 for 1 Campus Associates, 3 Campus Drive, Block: 202 Lot: 3.12 1 Campus Drive, Block: 202 Lot: 3.7; 7 Campus Drive, Block: 202 Lot: 3.8 Preliminary and Final Major Site Plan w/‘C’ Variance Carried from February 22, 2021, will be heard on Monday, April 5. They plan to construct a total of 238 units, with 48 units of affordable housing. (Click here for more information)
This application will seek approval for the following:
Units
COAH Units
1 Bedroom
104
9
2 Bedrooms
124
29
3 Bedrooms
10
10
238
48
These projects are part of Parsippany’s fair share obligations as determined in a settlement agreement between the Township and the Fair Share Housing Center on April 11, 2019. Part of this obligation has already been achieved in prior rounds, while other housing plan components will be undertaken through July 1, 2025, the end of the Third Round. Click here to review Parsippany’s Master Plan.
A similar complex built by Roseland Residential Trust at 250 Johnson Road, Morris PlainsSignature Place on Littleton Road, Morris Plains
MORRIS COUNTY — Dogs Gone Wild Spring Break will be held on Saturday, May 22 at Cook’s Pond Denville Recreation, 19 Entrance Way, Denville. Entry Fee: $20.00 for family and two dogs. Masks are required for humans. The event starts at 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Off-leash swimming and playing for your dog’s enjoyment, picnic area and playground for your enjoyment the entire facility is fenced in and safe for your dogs.
The fee for the event supports the Denville Dog Park and Animal Shelter. There will be no food or drink for purchase but feel free to bring your own. Please no dogs in heat.
All dogs must enter the facility leashed and will be let off-leash once inside. All dogs of all shapes and sizes are invited.
PARSIPPANY — Imagine someone took your Grandmother’s house and converted it into a warm, cozy, and comfortable little Italian eatery. That is the vibe you get when visiting Verde’s Ristorante, on Tabor Road in Parsippany. Verde’s, the pride and passion of brothers, Mendin and Verdi Kaba, and now Joseph Basta, was opened in 2005 and clearly joins that impressive list of high-quality, gourmet, small, independent, family-owned Italian restaurants that we should consider fortunate to have right here in Morris County.
Dining area. Following all COVID-19 guidelines
Unfortunately, Verde’s current owner, Joseph Basta, was not available during my visit but has stated in previous interviews that it is his vision and mission to provide delicious food in a warm, friendly, and relaxing environment. Based on my past and present visits at Verde; and considering the 16 years that they have been meeting the high expectations of their many regular, returning customers, I would have to say that they have accomplished that goal.
Dining area. Following all COVID-19 guidelines
To the restaurant’s credit, they are known for generously contributing to many local causes and charities from around Morris County. As a matter of fact, 15% of my meal on the evening I visited was contributed to the local area Kiwanis Club Greater Parsippany. Thanks for that!
Located right on Tabor Road, Verde is easy to find by its attractive signage and contemporary look. Their off-road parking lot is more than adequate to meet your needs, and I understand that pre-pandemic they offered valet parking. A large white tent covering is prominently set up on the roadside section of the building, where attractive, patio-style, al fresco dining is available for those so inclined. It was a nice night on my visit, and several diners were enjoying their meals while outdoors. As I alluded to, the interior sends off a warm and homey vibe. The decorative entry, wooden floors, relaxing earthy colors, subdued lighting, beautiful oil paintings on the walls, carefully appointed linen-covered tables, soft, easy listening, background music, all blended perfectly together to create a pleasant, comfortable, and welcoming ambiance. This is a casual/classy restaurant that hits all the buttons and would be an excellent choice for a family night out, a romantic dinner, or just a friendly get-together. And yes, Verde was sparkling clean and in clear conformance with all current pandemic health recommendations.
Verde Manager, Dilan Sela and Pat Minutillo
Verde Manager, Dilan Sela, an enthusiastic, hospitable, and friendly host, warmly welcomed us and provided us with our choice of tables. Verde is a BYOB, and the vino we brought along was quickly uncorked and poured. A generously sized basket of warm Italian bread and butter also quickly appeared. As we looked over our menu, which focuses on a limited selection of outstanding choices, Dilan was more than happy to make himself available to join us in some casual conversation about both the restaurant and the menu, while our very attentive waiter, Lee, was making sure that we had everything we needed. It was obvious that Dilan enjoyed what he was doing, as well as how much pride he had in Verde. Great customer service all around. All those little details, those personalized, individualized touches can often make the difference between a mediocre and a great dining experience.
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
For our appetizers we chose the Bacon Wrapped Scallops, which were served with a nice scoop of richly textured and slightly al dente Risotto and drizzled with a delicious Brandy Cream Sauce; and the classic, Broccoli Rabe and Sausage.
As soon as we took our first bite of both of our shared appetizers, we both just looked up in agreement that they were both outstanding dishes. The fresh, firm, nicely sized scallops were succulent, buttery, delicate, and slightly sweet, and of course, everything tastes better when wrapped in properly prepared bacon, and the sweet, citrusy, brandy cream sauce was a savory complement to the dish.
Sausage and Broccoli Rabe
I could have easily finished off a plate of these and left a happy diner. The sausage mounded over a serving of broccoli rabe was also delectable. Cooked in a flavorful oil, the tasteful sweet sausage was fried perfectly with a nice bite and texture, and with that just-right, light, garlic taste, and enhanced by the slightly bitter, nutty, delicate taste of the broccoli rabe.
Coconut Crusted Chilean Sea Bass
I decided on one of the evening’s specials; Coconut Crusted Chilean Sea Bass served over broccoli rabe and drizzled with a mango reduction sauce. I have never had my fish coconut-crusted so that did sound like something I would like to try. The fresh Chilean Sea Bass was scrumptious, perfectly prepared, and had that smooth and buttery taste you are looking for with this dish. The white and flaky Sea Bass was moist, juicy, had a great texture, and basically melted in my mouth. The taste of the coconut went exceptionally well with the fish and provided a creative spin to this dish, while the slightly sweet, creamy, fruity taste of the mango sauce added that next level of flavor. Excellent!
Pork Osso Bucco, over Risotto
My friend went with the Pork Osso Bucco, over Risotto, with a Port Wine Demi-glacé. Beautiful presentation and a generous-sized portion, as was my Chilean Seabass. He raved about it and stated that it was one of the best Osso Bucco’s he has ever had. A pretty high compliment.
Our desserts consisted of some traditional Italian favorites, Tiramisu and Cannoli, and of course, a Cappuccino. How can you not like the flavoring of cocoa, espresso, mascarpone cheese, and ladyfinger biscuits of a Tiramisu? A decadent dessert, that literally means “a pick me up” in Italy. Not to forget the crisp texture of a fully filled Cannoli. Thanks to Dilan and the Verde staff for all their genuine hospitality, delicious food, and an extraordinary culinary experience. Obviously, this is certainly a restaurant that I would recommend.
Cannoli
As always, please try to come out and help support all our local, small, independent businesses in any way that you can.
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 Town Hall, followed by several other displays around town to help raise awareness in our community by turning attention to the importance of ensuring great childhoods for all children because our children are our future.
This year’s theme is GROWING a Better Tomorrow for All Children, TOGETHER, and the organization continues to work through trying times, and they are growing a better tomorrow for all children, together. This April is more important than ever to help positive childhood experiences take root in your community and across the country. There are other ways to show your support.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano issued a Proclamation for “Child Abuse Prevention Month”
A great way to show your support is to join us for Wear Blue Day! Wear blue to support growing a better tomorrow for all children, together. Post a #WearBlueDay2021 selfie today as we kick off Child Abuse Prevention Month and spread the word about supporting positive childhood experiences for all children!
You can also make your voice heard by contacting elected officials on April 21st—Digital Advocacy Day! Spread the word about important policies and programs. You can make a difference and support children and families while staying safe at home.
Special thanks to the Parsippany IHOP on Route 46 and Cedar Knolls IHOP on E. Hanover Avenue, who have continued to support the Kiwanis Club with this important cause. This year IHOP will have contribution boxes in both locations so donations can be collected during the month of April to benefit Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano issued a Proclamation for “Child Abuse Prevention Month”
In addition, we want to thank Matt from the Gourmet Cafe for his generous donation and continued support of our Prevent Child Abuse NJ campaign.
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 upon 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. Close to 700,000 children were victims of child abuse, and almost 1,700 children died as a result of abuse or neglect.
Karen DeChristopher, Kiwanis Club’s Committee Chairman of “Young Children Priority One” programs has lead this campaign for the past five 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 their 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.”
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.
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 via Zoom during the pandemic but will resume in-person meetings at the Empire Diner shortly. We are 63 members strong and growing. New members are always welcome. (Click here for more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany).
MORRIS COUNTY — April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
Distracted driving is a dangerous epidemic on America’s roadways, say police. Statistics from the Office of the Attorney General show that from 2012 to 2016, nearly 800,000 crashed in New Jersey that involved a distracted driver. In New Jersey, driver inattention remains the most significant cause of fatal and incapacitating crashes. Distracted Driving is any activity that takes a person’s attention away from driving. These distractions include:
Texting
Using a cell phone or smartphone
Eating and drinking
Talking to passengers
Grooming
Reading, including maps
Using a navigation system
Watching a video
Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player
New Jersey law bans the use of a handheld cell phone while driving. Drivers who talk or text on a handheld cell phone while driving face a fine.
From April 1-21, 2021, police officers, will conduct special enforcement patrols targeting distracted drivers. The enforcement will take the form of roving patrols and fixed checkpoints.
MORRIS COUNTY — Employment Horizons is putting a pandemic twist on their annual event. This year’s Taste of Spring will be a Virtual Wine Tasting & Charcuterie Board Building event. This event will take place Wednesday, April 14, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom.
Employment Horizons thanks the sponsors: Champagne Sponsors, Dan Collins & Christine Conti-Collins, First Energy Foundation, Pinot Noir Sponsors, Solid, Inc., Whole Foods Market, and our Artisan Cheese Sponsors, Mandelbaum Salsburg P.C., Provident Bank, and Chick-fil-A. They are so grateful for your support and generosity.
Employment Horizons will be partnering with The Food Gurus at ShopRite of Greater Morristown. This event will cost $100.00 per box, serving one to two adults. Each box will include wine and an assortment of cheeses, and other charcuterie board necessities to help you create your board. Boxes need to be picked up prior to the event at the ShopRite of Greater Morristown. The deadline to register for the Virtual Taste of Spring Wine Tasting and Charcuterie Board Building event is Friday, April 9, 2021.
Proceeds from event participation and all funds raised go directly to the Employment Horizons’ Culinary Arts Training Program. Now more than ever, people with disabilities need to learn the skills necessary to obtain the job of their choice.
To register click here or call Karen Rynearson at (973) 538-8822 ext. 228.
PARSIPPANY — Community leaders and residents of Parsippany joined Mayor Soriano this week to discuss cultural bias against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The discussion touched on many important topics affecting the country and highlighted Parsippany’s celebration of diversity in the township.
The Mayor was joined by:
Pastor Paul Shen of the Parsippany Chinese Christian Church
Akshay Pujara of the Parsippany BAPS Swaminarayan Temple
Jinlai Fu, the former Principal of the Morris Chinese Academy
Florence Kan, President of the Evergreen Ping Pong Club
Isabel Lu, a working Parsippany Parent, with her daughter Olivia Lu
Important Resources for Our Community:
Parsippany Police Department: 911 (emergency) or 973-263-4300 (non-emergency)
Parsippany Community Center: 973-263-7163
Mayor’s Action Center: 973-263-4262
To Report a Bias Incident in New Jersey
Go to: https://www.nj.gov/oag/bias/report-bi…
Email: NJBIAS@NJDCJ.org
Call: 800-277-BIAS (2427)
Resources for Safety and Bystander Training
http://www.stopAAPIHate.org
http://www.StandAgainstHatred.org
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy today signed into law S-3523, which provides $25 million in federal COVID-19 relief aid for small businesses throughout New Jersey. The bill – sponsored by Senators Dawn Marie Addiego and Joe Lagana and Assemblymen Gordon Johnson, John Armato, and Roy Freiman – focuses on providing a lifeline to micro businesses with five or fewer employees. The bill is part of a five-bill, $100 million relief effort aimed at helping New Jersey’s economy recover from the year-long pandemic.
“Main Street businesses have always been the backbone of our economy and unfortunately have been the hardest hit during the pandemic,” said Governor Murphy. “This bill, along with others I’ll sign later this month, will help thousands of businesses keep their doors open as we climb out of the economic hardships wrought by COVID-19.”
“New Jersey never fully recovered from the Great Recession, and a lot of that was due to the limited relief residents, businesses and organizations received,” said Senator Dawn Marie Addiego. “Right now, we have an opportunity to learn from our mistakes and provide relief funding for those who have struggled over the past year, specifically microbusinesses. No more businesses should have to permanently close because of the pandemic, and this legislation will provide the assistance needed to prevent any more business closures.”
“In the last year, small businesses across the state have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with many being forced to permanently close their doors due to a lack of revenue,” said Senator Joseph Lagana. “Our employees and business owners have been hurt badly, especially in the smaller economies throughout the state. It is crucial to provide the support needed for our businesses to remain open and once again thrive in communities across New Jersey.”
“Microbusinesses are facing unprecedented challenges through no fault of their own because of this ongoing public health crisis,” said Assemblymen Gordon Johnson, Roy Freiman, and John Armato. “Offering our support in these difficult times will help ensure these valuable enterprises can continue to succeed for years to come.”
“Small businesses are the heart and soul of our communities. While these businesses have been hit the hardest by COVID-19, the resilience and ingenuity of business owners and their employees throughout the pandemic have been inspiring,” said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “I am proud to be here today with Governor Murphy celebrating this new bill that will provide additional resources for small businesses as they begin the hard work of recovering from the devastation of the pandemic.”
“Small businesses are not only the backbone of our economy, but are the center of our downtowns and local communities, so we are thrilled that Governor Murphy and the Legislature are taking this step to make sure significant funds are available to assist them through this crisis,” said Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Dan O’Connell. “Throughout the last year, we’ve seen how important it is for all levels of government to work together to provide the necessary help and support for our residents and businesses. That’s what is happening in Burlington County and across New Jersey.”
The relief aid will be administered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, which so far has provided more than $250 million in aid to 55,000 New Jersey businesses.
The bill signing was held at Fond Memories, a boutique in Medford specializing in jewelry, handbags, and baby gifts. Fond Memories was opened in 1987.
MORRIS COUNTY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, New Jersey Transit Police Chief Christopher Trucillo, and Morristown Police Department Acting Chief Darnell Richardson announce the arrest of Lamar A. Harris, 33, last known address was 1 Jean Street, Morristown.
At approximately 12:29 a.m. on March 29, 2021, law enforcement received information regarding a deceased male in the area of the Morristown Train Station, Morris Street, Morristown. Subsequent investigation confirmed that the male’s body was located on a stairway at the train station. The male had apparent head injuries and a brick was located next to the body. An autopsy was performed by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the manner of death was certified as a homicide. The male’s full name and identity will not be disclosed at his family’s request.
Subsequent investigation including video surveillance from the Morristown Train Station area revealed the victim was in the company of Lamar Harris in the time before the murder. Harris was apprehended in Morristown on March 31, 2021. He has been charged with first-degree murder, first-degree Robbery, third-degree Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purposes, and fourth-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. In accordance with the Criminal Justice Reform Act, Harris has been remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending future court proceedings.
Members of the Morristown Police Department, the New Jersey Transit Police, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit all contributed to the investigation.
Acting Prosecutor Carroll commended the thorough and efficient police work of the several cooperating agencies involved in this investigation. He also cited Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Muhammad Thomas, Morristown Police Department Detective Robert Edwards, New Jersey Transit Police Detective James Garrison, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Detective Andreas Zaharopoulos, and Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Schellhorn for their teamwork and dedication to this “round the clock investigation” that resulted in an arrest within approximately 48 hours from the initial crime report.
Acting Prosecutor Carroll stated, “This is an example of police agencies selflessly pulling together to respond to a murder scene, develop evidence, identify a suspect and then safely effectuate an arrest.”
If anyone has any information related to this investigation, they are encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200.
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.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting on Wednesday, April 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting will be held via a web conferencing program named WebEx. This program will allow the public to listen in to the meeting and to participate during the public portion session only. This program uses a “raise hand” button in the software to address those who wish to speak during the public portion.
Please be advised that in order for a member of the public to speak during the public portion, they will need to provide their first name, last name, email address, address and city accurately. Anyone not using their real name and address will not be allowed to speak during the public portion.
Click here to download the agenda for the Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting.
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its Planning Board meeting on Monday, April 5, 2021, at 7:30 p.m.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting will be held via a web conferencing program named WebEx. This program will allow the public to listen in to the meeting and to participate during the public portion session only. This program uses a “raise hand” button in the software to address those who wish to speak during the public portion.
Please be advised that in order for a member of the public to speak during the public portion, they will need to provide their first name, last name, email address, address and city accurately. Anyone not using their real name and address will not be allowed to speak during the public portion.
Click here to download the planning board meeting agenda.
PARSIPPANY — This article was submitted by Prerna Shankar and Parsippany resident Savaas Iqbal, who are in the 2021 class of the Governor’s STEM Scholars. They have written a piece outlining the challenges women face in STEM, from the perspective of high school students. As March is both Women’s History Month and NJ STEM Month, I cannot think of a more relevant time to explore this topic.
March 2021: Women’s History Month. This month is about celebrating women’s contributions to the world. This year’s theme is “Refusing to be Silenced”; appreciating all the women who have broken stereotypes and refused to be treated as lesser. When it comes to STEM, women aren’t as present in the field as men, and for a variety of reasons. In honor of STEM Month, we refuse to be silenced when it comes to gender disparities in STEM.
Consider Katalin Karikó, Ph.D, a Hungarian-born biochemist, one of few women scientists that may be awarded a Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
If she wins, she will be one of only eight women to receive the honor in the prize’s 110 years.
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, her revolutionary research is the backbone of the mRNA vaccines. Her work provides lifesaving protection to millions. Like her, there are millions of female innovators.However, these women make up a minute fraction of the men who have dominated the field.
Women in STEM are capable, yet a small part of them pursue careers in STEM— mainly due to a lack of female role models and inequalities between the sexes even from young ages. We, as young women of color who are interested in pursuing STEM, feel the public should know about our struggles as young women in STEM and elaborate on how to combat inequalities across STEM professions.
Many believe that there aren’t any gender inequities in STEM. If this were the case, representation in STEM would be equal. The data simply says otherwise; for example, women only hold 5% of leadership positions in the technology industry.
We have been exposed to science from our youth, and understand the necessity for women to be exposed to STEM. It opens up opportunities for us to broaden our perspectives and innovate.
When we think of famous scientists, we think of Einstein, Darwin, and Newton. Notice how no women are listed. Why don’t we think of Ada Lovelace, Jane Goodall, Katherine Johnson?
The key difference is that these women aren’t given the visibility they deserve. The achievements of men are exposed to us from a young age and we can list them off the top of our heads, yet we have to resort to Google searches to find notable women in STEM.
There’s a consistent pattern of boys dominating science classes and camps compared to girls. As high school STEM students, we’ve noticed this trend for years – even as early as elementary school.
There’s a real dichotomy of being inspired and excited by scientific thought and innovation while being iced out as the only woman in the group, left to sit alone at the literal and proverbial lunch table. It’s something that we’ve experienced, as have many young women exploring the sciences. This isolation is common in STEM careers: we often form cliques with like-minded people, ones who think, act, and look like us – and for kids, this often starts with gender. However, this just goes to show that it’s times like these when we’re forced to think about how alone women are in STEM.
This isn’t limited to us: in general, women’s interest in STEM declines when reaching high school. According to Girls Who Code, 74% of young girls in middle school express interest in STEM or computer science, but only 18% of computer science degrees are held by women. This indicates how drastically interest in STEM drops as young girls reach college: what discourages them from staying on that path? Is it the overwhelming male presence? The lack of role models? There are many factors that contribute to this drop, but this problem can be fixed.
There are issues concerning women in STEM workplaces, and there are things we can do to facilitate equality going forward.
Engaging girls from a young age by introducing STEM programs catered to them will allow them to get exposure from the beginning. Introducing female role models to girls from elementary to high school is also important; it gives us the confidence to pursue what we want to while knowing that others have paved the way for us to do so.
We will keep advocating for these changes for our fellow women in STEM. We will keep addressing these issues, so we can create opportunities to fix them going forward. The gender discrepancies we see today are no small matter, and we won’t back down when it comes to advocating for this cause.
We refuse to be silenced.
Savaas Iqbal is a sophomore at the Academy for Biotechnology located at Mountain Lakes High School and a Parsippany resident. He aspires to enter the field of STEM and inspire other women to do so as well. Savaas currently volunteers to tutor elementary school children in science and mathematics. He has been working to ensure that the young girls they tutor are able to build confidence in their abilities in science and mathematics. Savaas is a 2021 Governor’s STEM Scholar.
Prerna Shankar is a junior at North Hunterdon High School’s Biomedical Sciences Academy, where she studies in-depth topics related to the fields of medicine and health sciences. She is also the president and founder of the Brain Bee Club at North Hunterdon and was a finalist in the Princeton Brain Bee competition this year. Through volunteering and devoting her time to causes she cares about, she makes sure to give back to her community in any way possible. Prerna aspires to pursue neuroscience in the future while creating opportunities and awareness for women in the field. She is a 2021 Governor’s STEM Scholar.
The Governor’s STEM Scholars is a program of the Research & Development Council of New Jersey. It introduces New Jersey high school and college students to the State’s vast STEM economy. Applications are now open for the 2022 class of Governor’s STEM Scholars at www.govstemscholars.com.
PARSIPPANY — Kylie Wan, a Junior at Parsippany Hills High School is a Delegate to the Congress of Future Medical Leaders on June 26 and 27, 2021.
The Congress is an honors-only program for high school students who want to become physicians or go into medical research fields. The purpose of this event is to honor, inspire, motivate and direct the top students in the country interested in these careers, to stay true to their dream and, after the event, to provide a path, plan, and resources to help them reach their goal.
Kylie’s nomination was signed by Dr. Mario Capecchi, winner of the Nobel Prize in Medicine and the Science Director of the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists to represent New Jersey-based on her academic achievement, leadership potential, and determination to serve humanity in the field of medicine. During the two-day Congress, Kylie Wan will join students from across the country and hear Nobel Laureates and National Medal of Science Winners talk about leading medical research; be given advice from Ivy League and top medical school deans on what to expect in medical school; witness stories told by patients who are living medical miracles; be inspired by fellow teen medical science prodigies; and learn about cutting-edge advances and the future in medicine and medical technology.
This is a crucial time in America when we need more doctors and medical scientists who are even better prepared for a future that is changing exponentially. Focused, bright and determined students like Kylie Wan are our future and she deserves all the mentoring and guidance we can give her.
The Academy offers free services and programs to students who want to become physicians or go into medical science. Some of the services and programs the Academy offers are online social networks through which future doctors and medical scientists can communicate; opportunities for students to be guided and mentored by physicians and medical students; and communications for parents and students on college acceptance and finances, skills acquisition, internships, career guidance and much more.
The National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists was founded on the belief that we must identify prospective medical talent at the earliest possible age and help these students acquire the necessary experience and skills to take them to the doorstep of this vital career. Based in Washington, D.C. and with offices in Boston, MA, the Academy was chartered as a nonpartisan, taxpaying institution to help address this crisis by working to identify, encourage and mentor students who wish to devote their lives to the service of humanity as physicians, medical scientists. For more information click here or call (617) 307-7425.
MORRIS COUNTY — Joined by Senate Health Committee Chair Senator Joe Vitale, Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez, Assemblyman Gary Schaer, Congressman Bill Pascrell, Human Services Acting Commissioner Sarah Adelman, Department of Banking and Insurance Commissioner Marlene Caride, and Office of Health Care Affordability and Transparency Director Shabnam Salih, Governor Phil Murphy today visited the North Hudson Community Action Corporation to highlight the $20 million investment in the Fiscal Year 2022 (FY2022) budget proposal for Phase 1 of the Cover All Kids campaign.
“No child in New Jersey should be left without the support and security of health care coverage,” said Governor Murphy. “The proposed investment toward Cover All Kids in our budget continues the progress we’ve made toward advancing health care accessibility, while laying the foundation to ensure that more children are able to receive access to quality health care coverage that they deserve.”
“As a daughter of immigrants and as someone who grew up with NJ FamilyCare coverage for most of my childhood, I could not be more thankful for the Governor’s leadership here and excited about what this campaign will mean for the thousands of uninsured children in New Jersey,” said Shabnam Salih, Executive Director of the Office of Health Care Affordability and Transparency. “Through this work we will not only be ensuring better health care for these children, but removing a significant burden in their lives that will help ensure brighter and healthier futures.”
“Governor Murphy is committed to supporting New Jerseyans through every stage of life, which is why he’s proposing a new Cover All Kids initiative to provide health care coverage for every New Jersey child,” said Human Services Acting Commissioner Sarah Adelman. “New Jersey has been leading the way on health care access for years, and with this plan we will achieve something monumental and fundamental: health care for every child. This is a compassionate and fiscally responsible plan – and it’s realistic. It’s also – most importantly – crucial for our children and our future.”
“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey has made it a priority to improve access to health care, based on the principle that health care is a fundamental right. Last fall, we opened our state-based exchange, Get Covered New Jersey, where residents who do not have health insurance from an employer or other program can purchase coverage. That alone was transformational for our state,” said Department of Banking and Insurance Commissioner Marlene Caride. “Now with a plan to Cover All Kids, New Jersey will continue to chart a deliberate path forward and deliver improved health care access for residents.”
The campaign further builds on the Governor’s progress in making critical strides in improving access to more affordable health care coverage for New Jersey residents. The launch of the Cover All Kids campaign provides the opportunity to extend coverage to those most in need. This initiative will improve accessibility and remove barriers to cover nearly 90,000 uninsured children in our state.
Phase 1 of the Cover All Kids Campaign
The first phase will remove barriers and support connections to coverage for nearly 53,000 children through FY2022 by doing the following:
Eliminating the 90-day waiting period for coverage to children newly enrolling into the Children Health’s Insurance Program (CHIP);
Removing premiums families would pay for their children enrolled in CHIP; and
Developing targeted outreach efforts to boost enrollment for currently eligible children who are unenrolled.
Phase 2 of the Cover All Kids Campaign
The second phase of the campaign begins after Phase 1 implementation and will provide coverage options for children of undocumented immigrants and those whose families’ incomes are over NJ FamilyCare eligibility, but still find coverage unaffordable and out of reach.
“Governor Murphy’s Cover All Kids initiative is precisely the kind of bold government action we need right now here in Passaic and across this state,” said Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. “Lack of health care during the pandemic has caused tragedy. Fortunately, our state’s local and federal officials are united in our efforts to defeat this virus and strengthen your health care. Thanks to Governor Murphy’s leadership and the additional federal resources we have delivered, the state has launched the Cover All Kids initiative to invest in coverage for the 88,000 children who lack health care. This comes on the heels of President Biden’s massive American Rescue Plan we passed which makes health care more affordable, makes health services more accessible, and cuts child poverty rates in half. As we look to safely reopen schools and help families recover, we must prioritize the solutions that will keep our neighbors healthy.”
“There’s nothing more important than having a kid have access to care. All those families that are here today understand what it means when your kids are sick,” said Senator Joseph Vitale.
“I think we can all agree that one child without insurance is too many and our benchmark for success needs to be covering all kids,” said Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez. “The legislation Senator Vitale and I introduced charts a course to address the issues barring our kids from receiving coverage. We will expand eligibility to all children who meet the income requirement, eliminate the burdensome 90-day waiting period, reestablish the New Jersey Care buy-in program, and ensure a robust outreach program that will target every child in need.”
“This is the game-changer that we have all been waiting for. This is the difference between not doing and doing. This legislation will make fundamental change, not over there or over there, but right here in this wonderful city, Passaic,” said Assemblyman Gary Schaer. “Whatever your background, your language, culture or religion, we make the difference with this legislation today.
“ACNJ commends Governor Murphy and legislative leaders for their commitment to ensure that all NJ children have access health insurance,” said Cecilia Zalkind, President & Chief Executive Officer of Advocates for Children of New Jersey. “NJ has long been a leader in ensuring that children are covered. This will remove the final barriers to reach the goal of covering all kids. Access to health care is essential to child well-being. This is a great day for kids in NJ!”
“Having attainable, affordable health care is not just a health issue – it is a critical component for individuals and families to remain financially stable and for economies to thrive,” said United Way of Northern New Jersey CEO Kiran Handa Gaudioso. “We support making health care coverage accessible so that fewer ALICE households and those in poverty are uninsured or underinsured.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, New Jersey Transit Police Chief Christopher Trucillo, and Morristown Police Department Acting Chief Darnell Richardson announce an investigation into a deceased male found in Morristown.
At approximately 12:29 a.m. on March 29, 2021, law enforcement received information regarding a deceased male in the area of the Morristown Train Station, Morris Street, Morristown, New Jersey. Subsequent investigation confirmed that the male’s body was located on a stairway at the train station. An autopsy was performed by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The cause and manner of death are pending. The identity of the individual will not be released at this time. The investigation remains active and ongoing.
The Morristown train station platforms remain open for normal operations. Members of the Morristown Police Department, New Jersey Transit Police, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit are participating in the investigation. Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Rotary Clubs in our area have declared the organization to be stigma-free as of March 24, 2021. The goal is to eliminate the stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders through education and creating awareness.
Stigma is the primary barrier to those with mental health and substance use disorders to seek help. By working within the mission of Rotary District 7475, which includes Essex, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Sussex, Union, and Warren Counties, the objective is to create working relationships with the communities and counties that it serves. They hope to help people overcome their resistance to seeking help by eliminating the stigma that often makes them feel overwhelmed.
To learn more about the Rotary Stigma-Free initiative, please contact District Governor Ann Walko at edudoc98@aol.com or (908) 410-7251.
PARSIPPANY In honor of Earth Day, on Saturday, April 24, the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is partnering with Jersey City to conduct a cleanup of the Boonton Reservoir. The 700-acre reservoir supplies water to Jersey City and is one of Parsippany’s most identifiable areas.
That same day, the Township will also be on hand for a garbage cleanup along with areas of North Beverwyck Road, Parsippany Road, and Vail Road.
Volunteers will be collecting plastic, garbage, and debris to clean up our community, and we need your help!
To Volunteer click here to register for the cleanup.
This year’s theme is GROWING a Better Tomorrow for All Children, TOGETHER, and the organization continues to work through trying times, and they are growing a better tomorrow for all children, together. This April is more important than ever to help positive childhood experiences take root in your community and across the country. There are other ways to show your support.
Since 1983, April has been a time to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse. As we look upon 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. Close to 700,000 children were victims of child abuse, and almost 1,700 children died as a result of abuse or neglect.
