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Life reimagined at PARQ Parsippany; Transforming Lanidex Plaza

Frank L. Cahill
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Life reimagined at PARQ Parsippany; Transforming Lanidex Plaza

PARSIPPANY — The stage is set for exceptional new beginnings. Plans for PARQ Parsippany (Phases 1 and 2), located in the former Lanidex Plaza, have been approved by the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board on November 23.

PARQ Parsippany is a multi-generational, mixed-use development that will encompass townhomes, multi-family residences, retail, expansive and open green spaces, and state-of-the-art facilities.

 

PARQ Parsippany is a multi-generational, mixed-use development

“PARQ will instill a new sense of community and placemaking in Parsippany by celebrating the balance of health, happiness, and well-being,” said Anthony Milelli of PARQ Parsippany. “Urban renewal and revitalization projects are vital to stimulate the economy, enhance property values, and instill a sense of civic pride.”

“PARQ Parsippany will usher in a new era, forging it into the 21st century with state-of-the-art facilities, vast and welcoming green spaces for the community to enjoy, a recreational complex open to Parsippany residents and sports programs to utilize, and enhanced revenue as a result of the site’s modernization,” said Haytham Haidar of PARQ Parsippany.

The approved plan will be implemented in two phases. The first phase includes Multi-Family Building 1, which features 275 multi-family residences, convenience retail, indoor and outdoor amenity space, and ample parking. It will also highlight 75 clustered courtyard townhomes with two-car garages. The townhomes will feature contemporary farmhouse-style architecture with access to a clubhouse and outdoor pool. Convenient, master-down home designs are also available. An athletic field, concession building, restrooms, and playground are also included in the first phase.

Multi-Family Building

The second phase includes Multi-Family Building 2, which features 250 multi-family residences, convenience retail, indoor and outdoor amenity space, and ample parking. The residences will allow the Township of Parsippany to fulfill part of its state-mandated affordable housing obligations.

The two luxury multi-family buildings tout green design elements, as well as smart building and home features that promote wellness. These features include Energy Star® appliances and lighting fixtures; windows with Low-E coating; low flow water fixtures; programmable thermostats, and electric car charging stations in each building’s parking garage. Each multi-family building also features an elegant welcoming lobby with motor court drop-off; an upscale club suite; a private event room; a children’s playroom; a state-of-the-art fitness center; a resort-style pool with outdoor BBQ and lounging areas, and co-working alcoves.

PARQ’s vision is for the revitalization to seamlessly integrate the design of the project into the existing fabric of Parsippany. The transformation of the 23-acre portion of the Lanidex office complex will begin in 2021 and conclude in 2025.

PARQ Parsippany will ensure physical spaces reflect community values. “The result will be a compelling neighborhood that will transform Parsippany into a place where people are conveniently connected by bike, car, or public transport. By offering easy access to various points of interest throughout Morris County, New York City, and beyond, getting where you need to go will be seamless,” said Haidar. “Multi-generational, varied lifestyles create an authentic community. The conversation is welcome. Engagement is the goal. Exclusive, yet humble. PARQ will positively impact the community by creating Parsippany’s true heart.”

About PARQ Parsippany

The PARQ Parsippany development team includes PARQ Parsippany; Garofalo O’Neill Ruggierio, LLC, Real Estate Law; Minno & Wasko, Architects, and Planners; Design 446, Marketing and Advertising; Greystar Real Estate Partners; Sue Adler, Keller Williams Premier Properties; Langan Engineering & Environmental Services; Melillo + Bauer Associates, Landscape Architects, and Mary Cook Associates, Interior Design.

Morris County & Atlantic Health Providing Flu Shots to Homebound

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County & Atlantic Health Providing Flu Shots to Homebound

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County’s Office on Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming has partnered with Atlantic Health System to provide and administer flu shots to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities at no cost to the recipients.

Supplies are limited, and to qualify for a shot recipients must be Morris County residents, homebound, 60 years of age or older, or a homebound individual with a disability who is between the ages of 18 and 59.  Flu shots are important to populations such as seniors and people with disabilities, who are more vulnerable to the flu, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Providing at-home services, such as this, is especially important for our seniors during these times, as it minimizes potential exposures for the most vulnerable population.  The CDC recommends a yearly flu shot, and it is even more important this year as it may decrease the risk of co-infection to this high-risk population,” said Christine Hellyer, Director of the Morris County Office on Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also contends flu shots are this year are critical.

“Routine vaccination prevents illnesses that lead to unnecessary medical visits, hospitalizations, and further strain the healthcare system. For the 2020-2021 influenza season, influenza vaccination will be paramount to reduce the impact of respiratory illnesses attributed to influenza in the population and resulting burdens on the healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic,” the CDC warns on its website.

The flu shots are part of an ongoing effort in Morris County to connect seniors and adults with disabilities to community resources during the pandemic.

“We began to receive calls from seniors requesting options for flu shots administered in the home. When we reached out to public health nurses and community providers, we found few resources for this requested service. The Office on Aging then sought out to partner with an organization to provide this service to seniors who are homebound or were concerned with going to a clinic or their doctor’s office during the pandemic,” Hellyer explained.

Providing at-home services is especially important for seniors during the pandemic because it minimizes the potential for their exposure to the virus.  Offering the option to have the flu shot administered by a trusted partner such as Atlantic Health also allows for a sense of relief for those who are unable to get to a provider.

To request an appointment for a flu shot, call Solangel Patarroyo at (973) 971-7259 or reach out through email at Solangel.Patarroyo@atlantichealth.org.

 

Rubik’s Cube Charity Tournament

Frank L. Cahill
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Rubik’s Cube Charity Tournament

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Cube Club is hosting a “Rubik’s Cube Charity Tournament.” This online puzzle-solving competition is to raise money for the Parsippany Food Pantry.

Compete in Parsippany’s 1st ever online Rubik’s Cube Competition on Sunday, December 20 from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• 100% of proceeds will go to the Parsippany Food Pantry
• Guest appearance from Phil Yu, CEO of Cubicle, a leading USA-based online specialty cube store
• First 30 participants will receive a mystery prize from our sponsor Cubicle
• Donations above $25 will receive a Cube ornament that can be used for holiday decoration

Click here for the Donation/Registration link.

To visit Parsippany Cube Club’s website click here.

Parsippany Community Update December 8, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Community Update December 8, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Last week, Morris County Office of Health Management announced the creation of the Morris County Covid 19 At-Home Testing portal. Thanks to this program, Morris County residents will have the opportunity to get tested for COVID-19 right from home. You can find a link to the portal by clicking here.

Parsippany Community Update December 7, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Community Update December 7, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Community Update December 7, 2020. This past Thursday, Parsippany became the 50th municipality to attain Highlands Council approval for planning and conformance to the water, land use, and resource management requirements of the 2004 Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act. In particular, the Highlands Council recognized, “preservation of community character, mitigation of transportation problems, enhancement of parks and open spaces, protection of environmental features, utilization of sustainable development practices, and protection of cultural and historic resources,” in its recognition of Parsippany’s efforts and new Master Plan.

See related article by clicking here.

Parsippany-Troy Hills School District Will Be Fully Remote/Distance Learning

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills School District Will Be Fully Remote/Distance Learning

PARSIPPANY —  Effective Monday, December 14, Parsippany-Troy Hills Schools will transition to Fully Remote/Distance Learning. The school principals will communicate to share scheduling information specific to their schools.

“Due to increased cases of COVID-19 and the number of staff members self-isolating as a result of family or school contacts, it is becoming challenging to properly staff our schools. We will remain in Fully Remote status through the holiday break.  I will monitor the regional health data and communicate additional information by the end of December,” said Dr. Barbara Sargent, Superintendent of Schools

Cerbo’s Trees for Troops Sends Christmas Trees to Military Families

Frank L. Cahill
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Cerbo’s Trees for Troops Sends Christmas Trees to Military Families

PARSIPPANY — The holiday season can be difficult for military families. For the third year, Cerbo’s Greenhouse and Garden Center, participated in “Trees for Troops.”

Many Parsippany volunteers gathered at  Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouse and Garden Center to support the third annual Trees for Troops Christmas tree donation drive.

Residents in small groups unloaded trees, tagged them with holiday wishes, and carefully loaded them into FedEx shipping trucks, to be delivered to military families at Fort Stewart Hunter Army Airfield in Georgia and Fort Bragg, in North Carolina.

“Our first year we had 115 trees donated, last year we got around 300, this year we’ve got a hard count of 500 trees we’re donating,” said Tyler Cerbo, standing along truckloads of carefully wrapped pine trees ready to be unveiled by military families. “This is something the community has been so engaged in and willing to support. People are definitely looking for a feel good at the end of this year, and helping our military and their families is something I think everybody wants to be a part of.”

“The Cerbo family is graciously supporting the “Trees for Troops” effort again this year, and I’m delighted to be joining them as they prepare freshly cut Christmas trees for delivery to a base in Texas this year,” Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce said.

The Trees for Troops program is a nationwide event that donates thousands of farm-grown Christmas trees to military bases all over the country. Donors are provided a card to offer well wishes to the recipient, which is tied to the tree and placed on the trucks to be hauled away to military bases.

“When the Cerbo family asked me to get involved with this three years ago, I was reminded of my father, who was in the military and stationed in Germany, who had brought along his Bing Crosby ‘White Christmas’ record with him, to remind him of the Christmas traditions he missed while overseas,” said Mayor Soriano. “This is personal, not just for me but for the people here volunteering. We respect the men and women who wear the uniform, and protect this country at home and abroad. What a great way to kick off our holiday season.”

Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill said “It was great to be in Parsippany yesterday to help load trucks for Trees for Troops with Mayor Soriano. I know how tough it can be to serve overseas during the holidays away from friends and loved ones. Thanks to the work of Tyler Cerbo, the Cerbo family, and the Morris County Chamber, our community is helping to send some holiday cheer to our service members and their families.”

Trees for Troops began in 2005 and has delivered more than 225,000 Christmas trees to military families in the US and to troops stationed overseas. The act may seem small, but for those serving, it can mean everything. Nationwide, the Trees for Troops program delivers close to 20,000 trees to active duty military members and their families at over 75 bases in the U.S. and overseas each year.

Tree farms in about 20 states have donated trees to brighten a military family’s holidays. Many individuals have donated to Trees for Troops as well, getting the organization to its grand total of 225,319 free trees over the past 15 years. All those trees are then delivered to the bases with the help of in-kind work from FedEx, whose volunteers coordinate all deliveries.

Cerbo’s Greenhouse and Garden Center is Parsippany’s oldest business – even older than the town itself! The original deed was completed on a piece of parchment paper and consisted of 26 acres much of which is now under Route 80.

If people still want to donate, Cerbo’s notes that donations can still be made.

Cerbo’s Greenhouse and Garden Center is located at 440 Littleton Road. For more information call (973) 334-2623 or click here.

 

Purple Paint donates to Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany

Frank L. Cahill
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Purple Paint donates to Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — Purple Paint donated $500 to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. This donation was made in an ongoing effort by Purple Paint to help and support the community during COVID-19.

Purple Paint was able to raise these funds through online classes under the program Classes 4 A Cause. Young middle and high school students held online classes and 100% of the funds raised were donated to support this cause. They do private tutoring and the classes are still open. Purple Paint requests your help and support. Click here and enroll your children today or make a donation now to support YOUR community.

This movement to help and support our community during this very difficult time in our lives continues. We must come together as a community to really make a difference. Although everyone had thought the need for food was finally slowing down we were wrong. It seems there is another Covid spike and the endless need for food in our community has once again grown. We need YOUR help to provide meals for the young children and families in our community. Please join this movement to help your community by making a donation now by clicking here.

Purple Paint is a registered 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that works to serve children in need around the world selflessly and with compassion to create a positive impact on society. For more information, please call (551) 216-9855 or click here.

Kiwanis members dedicate more than 6 million volunteer hours and invest more than $100 million in service projects that strengthen communities and serve children every year. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany ensures that all children have the opportunity to lead healthy, successful lives. They believe that by helping one child, you help the world.

If you are interested in learning about our club you can join via Zoom by clicking here). For more information click here. Our next meeting is Thursday, December 17.

CCM to Provide Food Truck Entrepreneur Training

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM to Provide Food Truck Entrepreneur Training

MORRIS COUNTY — Over the last decade, food trucks have become a rapidly growing industry and sought-after culinary experience. For the owners, it is also a lucrative business with minimal overhead and a potential annual revenue stream of $250,000 to $500,000, according to Food Truck Operator. Food trucks also can adjust more easily than brick-and-mortar restaurants to pandemic social distancing restrictions. They have no indoor seating and are able to travel where they are more likely to find customers.

At County College of Morris (CCM), the Department of Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts recently accepted delivery of a food truck to provide hands-on training in this popular industry.

At CCM, culinary arts students train in a professional teaching kitchen and are prepared for immediate entry into a career or transfer to a bachelor degree program if that is their preference. Students enrolled in the Food Truck Entrepreneur class also will receive hands-on experience working in the traveling kitchen, as they learn the fundamentals of owning and operating a food truck and the free and low-cost ways to market via social media. The class also covers the basics of food vending, business plan development, menu planning, production design, location selection, and federal, state and local regulations.

The food truck purchased by CCM is 8.5 feet wide and 18 feet long and is equipped with a four-burner stove, 24-inch griddle and a two-basket deep fryer. The department also purchased a cotton candy machine, a crepe maker and a funnel cake deep fryer for the truck. The department’s next step is to brand the truck with CCM’s colors and logo.

The CCM Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts department is a member of the National Restaurant Educational Foundation (NRAEF), the International Council on Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education, and the American Culinary Federation. At CCM, students take part in the NRAEF ManageFirst Program, which equips them with the competencies needed to advance in management and earn an industry recognized credential and certificates in such areas as cost containment, management and safe food handling to provide them with a competitive edge.

To learn more about the Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts programs at CCM click here.

 

Morris County Launches COVID-19 Home Testing

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Launches COVID-19 Home Testing

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County launched its at-home, no-cost COVID-19 testing program today for Morris County residents and people who work in Morris County, as the number of new cases continues to increase in correlation with a statewide spike in the virus.

A portal through which qualified Morris County residents and workers can apply for testing materials to be sent to their homes may be found on the Morris County’s Office of Health Management COVID-19 information page by clicking here.  People applying to receive the home tests will reach a landing page informing them of two available tests – one involving salvia and one nasal – and directing them to select one.

The Morris County Freeholders and the Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety outlined the testing plan in a Friday afternoon conference call with mayors.

The tests are available ONLY to Morris County residents and people who work in Morris County, and applicants will be required to provide information on where they reside. Those who work in Morris County, but do not live in the county, will be required to submit additional proof of where they are employed such as an employee identification card or the employer’s contact information.

Once that information is confirmed by Morris County staff, an email will be sent to the applicant with further instructions.

Applicants will also be asked to provide information about their private health insurance, Medicaid and Medicare coverage, but will not be billed for the tests. Anyone who is not insured must indicate so on the on-line application, but the test still will be completed at no cost.

The nasal swab test, which is restricted to individuals who are age 18 and older, is a test already available to the public through LabCorp, and it is known as their Pixel test. It currently is restricted to people with symptoms of COVID-19 infection. It will be shipped overnight to individuals, who will be asked to follow directions on how to take a sample and return-mail it in a prepaid package. An applicant must have a personal email account, and results generally are available within 48 hours of receipt by the testing company.

The saliva test, provided by Vault Health, was developed by Rutgers University. It too will be shipped to an individual’s home overnight. There is no age restriction, but the testing must be conducted under the supervision of an online Vault test supervisor via Zoom Video Conference. It requires access to a personal, family or friends online Zoom account, and the applicant must have a personal email account.

Anyone who tests positive should quarantine and will be directed to contact his or her healthcare provider. Additionally, anticipate a call from a health department official for contact tracing to determine if anyone else was exposed.

A Message from the Publisher….

Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — During the weeks before the election, Parsippany Focus received many “letter to the editor” submissions. We publish all letters regardless of political views or party affiliations. We welcome all endorsement letters from all readers.

With the upcoming 2021 election in Parsippany, where it has been rumored at least four candidates seeking the Mayoral Candidacy, we have been receiving letters that are anonymous, unsigned and unverifiable.

Although the policy for “Letters to the Editor” has been published on our website for many years, I would like to reiterate those policies.

Letters to the Editor: Do you have an opinion to express? Send letters to news@parsippanyfocus.com.

To be considered for publication, letters to the editor must include the writer’s full name, street address, and daytime phone number. Letters may be condensed, although care is taken to preserve the writer’s comments (maximum 400 words). Copyright in material submitted to Parsippany Focus and accepted for publication remains with the author, but Parsippany Focus may freely reproduce it in print, electronic or other forms.

At the request of the writer, Parsippany Focus, will not print street addresses and telephone numbers unless authorized.

We are unable to acknowledge receipt of letters. All political letters in nature must be submitted by residents and/or candidates only.

All political letters must be received prior to Noon on Sunday before the election to be considered.

If the writer’s full name, address, and daytime phone number, can not be verified the letter WILL NOT be published.

Thank you for your cooperation

Frank L. Cahill
Publisher

To submit an article or letter to the editor:

Click or drag a file to this area to upload.

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Virtual Menorah Lighting

Frank L. Cahill
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Virtual Menorah Lighting

PARSIPPANY — Virtual Menorah Lighting Thursday, December 10 at 7:00 p.m. Please join as we celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah with the Township’s annual menorah lighting ceremony. This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the ceremony will take place virtually through Zoom, and on social media. Please click on the link below to stream the event.

Zoom link. Passcode: Israel

Parsippany Community Update December 2, 2020

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Community Update December 2, 2020

PARSIPPANY — Due to the ongoing spike in cases, we have made the difficult decision to close public access to township buildings beginning next Monday, December 7.

All Township offices and departments will continue to operate on their regular schedules, and business with members of the public will be conducted through appointment only. A full list of contact phones and emails for municipal departments can be found by clicking here.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Conducted a “Diaper Drive”

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Conducted a “Diaper Drive”

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce “Women In Business” committee recently conducted a diaper drive.

The diapers were donated to Jersey Cares.

Women in Business Chairperson Jennifer Peel said “The COVID-19 virus has created a huge deficit between the supply and demand of many critical products. Due to lack of essential resources, such as diapers, many families are left unable to provide for their children.”

Jersey Cares has established the Diaper Drive Program to provide diapers to families who do not have access to them.

Jersey Cares, a nonprofit organization, established in 1993, recruits and engages volunteers in rewarding, effective efforts that address community-identified needs. We partner with local nonprofits to identify needs and implement volunteer projects to meet these needs. For more information on Jersey Cares, click here.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents and volunteers that provides education, information and networking opportunities to the Parsippany area. For more information call (973) 402-6400 or click here.

 

CCM Board of Trustees Elects Officers

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM Board of Trustees Elects Officers

MORRIS COUNTY — The County College of Morris Board of Trustees held its annual reorganization meeting on November 17 and elected its officers.

Thomas A. Pepe

The board also recognized with appreciation Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan for her service as trustee and offered its congratulations on her appointment as the New Jersey Commissioner of Education. Reelected for a second term as chair was Thomas A. Pepe, of Morristown. Jeffrey M. Advokat, Esq., of Denville, was reelected for another term as vice chair; Paul R. Licitra, of Flanders, was reelected as treasurer; and George Milonas was elected as secretary.

Appointed to the CCM Board of Trustees was Roger A. Jinks, Morris County Executive Superintendent. Reappointed as trustees by the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders through 2024 were Licitra, Jack Frost and Dr. Barbara Hadzima. Also continuing their service on the board are Maria Aprile, George Dredden, Lauren Inganamort and Dr. Joseph Weisberg.

For more information and full biographies, click here.

Counseling, Discussion Groups for Anyone Impacted by COVID

Frank L. Cahill
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Counseling, Discussion Groups for Anyone Impacted by COVID

MORRIS COUNTY — The Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris is offering three options for emotional support, guidance, information, referrals, and COVID-19 resources for anyone who has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Services are free, confidential, and virtual.  The program serves anyone from a school-age child to an adult, or senior citizen. Anyone impacted by COVID-19 can participate. Examples of people who may benefit from the program include:

  • Parents who are homeschooling their children
  • Children who are adjusting to homeschooling or hybrid learning
  • Teens or college students who are not attending school or on campus learning regularly
  • Senior citizens who are cut off from families due to health concerns
  • Essential workers who are constantly at risk due to exposure
  • Anyone who has lost their job, a loved one, or the opportunity to celebrate an achievement or milestone

The Holiday Discussion Group, on Zoom, Mondays from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Zoom Link: Click here
Meeting ID: 990 9308 3986
Password: 384926

Connection is Just a Click Away Discussion Group, on Zoom, every Wednesday from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Zoom Link: Click here
Meeting ID: 992 4335 6990
Password: 537656

Individual Crisis Counseling Program for people feeling anxious about COVID-19; free, confidential and virtual. Just call between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.: (973) 509-9777, ext 171, or email Gpalmer@mhaessexmorris.org.

Free emotional support helpline during COVID-19 for people who are deaf and hard of hearing.  Sign language users can communicate with ACCESS of St. Joseph’s Health in Paterson. Call (973) 870-0677  VP, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.

En Espanol: Durante la pandemia de COVID-19, su salud mental es vital. Solicite apoyo emocional gratuito de personal capacitado; 7 dias por semana de 8:00 a.m. a 8 p.m. 866-202-Help (4357).

Programs are funded by Funded by FEMA/SAMHSA. Providing services to vulnerable populations is a MHAEM specialty.

New Head Start Early Learning Center Opens in Morris County Facility

Frank L. Cahill
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New Head Start Early Learning Center Opens in Morris County Facility

PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Freeholders and leaders of the Head Start Community Program of Morris County were joined by state Sen. Anthony Bucco, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn and other local officials at the dedication of a new, expanded Parsippany Township home for Head Start’s early education and childcare services for needy families.

Freeholder Director Deborah Smith and Freeholder Tayfun Selen display art work presented to them by children at Head Start.

The new classrooms were officially launched with a ribbon cutting outside 1 Medical Drive in Morris County Central Park, which also houses the Morris County Department of Human Services and other programs. The new location will enable Head Start to double its capacity to assist children in need.

“By renovating this county space, Head Start will double their capacity to serve 90 children, including some with special needs. This is a success story made possible by the cooperative efforts of Morris County, the federal government, the State of New Jersey and the Township of Parsippany. It also is another chapter in how we all manage to come together to help the children of Head Start,” said Freeholder Director Deborah Smith.

The freeholders began the move last year with a $1.2 million bond ordinance to rehabilitate the county-owned space under a loan and leasing agreement with the federally funded Head Start program. Head Start began a slow, but steady transition into the new facility earlier this fall from space that had been provided by the county under a nominal leasing arrangement since 2005 at Morris County’s Morris View building nearby in Morris Township.

“This is truly a unique collaborative effort where the resources of County Government, the Morris School District and Head Start have combined to bring educational and family support services to those who most need them,” said Head Start President Bob Grant. “We thank the Freeholders for their concern for the economically disadvantaged and we want to single out John Bonanni, County Administrator, for his wise guidance.”

Preschool and childcare for low-income families is now available at the Head Start Community Early Childhood Center at 1 Medical Drive, and there are currently openings for income-eligible children. The facility will continue to focus on Morristown-area families and free, full-day services are being offered through a federal Head Start grant and a state preschool education collaboration with the Morris School District.

“Today’s event marks the expansion of Morris County’s effective Head Start Program,” said state Sen. Anthony M. Bucco. “The valuable space and new classrooms are already helping build an educational foundation for more children from low-income families. With the help of this program, students will develop curiosity and a passion for learning that will help make them better prepared and more proficient when they enter the school system. These impressionable youngsters will develop academic skills that will benefit them for decades to come.”

With the opening of the new classrooms, wraparound childcare and summer programming is also planned to support working parents. Head Start also will continue its main operations at its Dover facility.

“I am proud to be part of this latest effort to help Head Start Morris County – a program that helps some of our most needy children to overcome major challenges in life so they are ready to go to school with the rest of the children in our community,” said Freeholder Tayfun Selen, a board liaison to Human Services operations in Morris County.

The mission of Head Start Community Program of Morris County, founded in 1965, is to partner with families to provide comprehensive support for child development and school readiness, from prenatal through kindergarten ages, for the community’s most vulnerable children.

The organization serves 333 families, providing free programs for expectant mothers, infants, toddlers and preschoolers at sites throughout Morris County. Head Start services are responsive to each child and family’s ethnic, cultural, and linguistic heritage.

“Head Start is very grateful for our longstanding partnership with Morris County, which enables us to provide life-changing services for the area’s most vulnerable children and families,” said Head Start of Morris County Executive Director Susan O’Donnell.  “This project leverages county, state and federal resources that work together to break the cycle of poverty for the neediest families in our community.”

The new location is situated in an area dubbed Morris County’s “Nonprofit Mall” because it has become a central location for many services and nonprofit organizations designed to help disadvantaged families. The ribbon-cutting ceremony opened with several of the Head Start children, who are already attending classes on site, singing songs and presenting thank-you cards and art work to Freeholders Smith and Selen.

Offering remarks at the event were Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano, Morris County Human Services Director Kasey Errico and Kelly Harte, Assistant Superintendent Morris School District.

Kellie Doucette, District Director for U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), was also at the ceremony to present Head Start leaders with a federal Congressional Certificate in honor of the new facility.

“I have had the privilege of visiting the Head Start Community Program of Morris County to see firsthand the dedication of their staff in the classroom and the impact of their programs on the children and families they serve,” said Congresswoman Sherrill in a statement she released today. “And to see this long-standing program continue to expand its reach through this innovative partnership with Morris County and additional federal grant funding is a great reminder of how our community comes together to care for each other.”

Also in attendance were Morris County Engineer Chris Vitz, Morris County Assistant Administrator Deena Leary, Pre-K Principal Deanne Guastello of the Morris School District and Former Freeholder John Murphy, who was instrumental in developing the Nonprofit Mall.

Head Start’s early childhood programs have achieved 4-star quality ratings through Grow NJ Kids, the state quality rating system for early care and education programs. Financing approved by the Board of Freeholders for the construction work is a loan to Head Start, which would reimburse the county for the project.

Information about services is available by calling Head Start at (973) 989-1430, or through the organization’s website by clicking here.

Morris County Clerk Updates Information on Operations

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Clerk Updates Information on Operations

MORRIS COUNTY — “The Morris County Clerk’s Office understands the balance it must achieve between maintaining essential functions, including its role in supporting the economic stability of the region, and designing a plan compliant with guidelines to slow the spread of the Coronavirus (“COVID 19’).” said Clerk Ann Grossi, Esq.

As the need arises, updates will continue to be posted by clicking here.

The Morris County Clerk’s Office continues to be closed to the public as follows:

REGISTRY DEPARTMENT: It is recommended that stakeholders who are impacted forward all documents to be filed and recorded either by mail or utilizing the Clerk’s automated e-filing system. To participate in e-filing, please contact one of our e-filing (electronic) vendors below:

Simplifile at 1-801-223-1052 or click here.
CSC @ 1-435-374-0139/0150/0141 or click here.
ERX @ 1-214-887-7461 or email www.erxsupport@conduent.com.

All documents will be processed upon receipt as required by law. For further information, please call the Recording Department at (973) 285-6130.

DROP-OFF BOX: A drop-off box is now available in the lobby of the Records and Administration Building, 10 Court Street, 1st Floor, Morristown.

PASSPORT DEPARTMENT: Passport Department services are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. by appointment only. At this time, they are not taking photos in the office and will be closed on Tuesday evenings. For further information or an appointment, please call the Passport Department at (973) 285-6161.

RECORDS/VAULT DEPARTMENT: The Records/Vault Department are open and is working in two shifts each day, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 3:30P p.m. by appointment only. Business users and the public may access all documents on line back to 1969 by clicking here. Anyone needing an appointment, a certified copy, or requiring assistance may do so by either email or calling the Vault. If you need assistance, please call (973) 285-6747.

ELECTION DEPARTMENT: If you need assistance, please call the Election Department at (973) 285-6066 or email us at CountyClerk@co.morris.nj.us. To find out the Election results click here.

NOTARY DEPARTMENT: The Notary Department services are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. by appointment only. New notary applications are available on line by clicking here. For additional details, appointments, or updates, please call (973) 285-6122.

WEDDING SERVICES: Wedding ceremonies performed by the County Clerk remain suspended until further notice. For additional information, please call (973) 285-6120.

ADULT ID CARDS, VETERAN ID CARDS AND GOLD STAR ID CARDS: Issuing of all ID cards are suspended until further notice.

OUTREACH, ON THE ROAD AND SPECIAL EVENT PROGRAMS:
All programs are suspended until further notice.

Morris County Clerk Announces State Database For Newly Elected Officials

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Clerk Announces State Database For Newly Elected Officials

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Esq. advises that “Newly elected officials, including those selected to fill a vacancy in an elective public office for the remainder of a term, are now required to file personal data on a newly established database, no later than 21 days after the individual has been certified as elected to an elective office in this State.” C.19:3-4.1

According to the Statute, officers who issue the Statement of Determination of Elected Office are responsible for transmitting the form prepared by the Secretary of State to the individual elected officials. Clerk Grossi explained that “As the County Clerk, my office is responsible for issuing certificates to all elected officials from the County level down through the municipal level. I am happy to say that the form has been transmitted to newly elected Morris County and Municipal Officials, and responses are already being received.”

The database is established in the Division of Elections in the Department of State and contains “the contact information for every elected official in this State, including gender identity or expression and race of the elected official.” However, the Statute carves out an exception for individuals elected to a position in a special district, on a board of education, or on a board of fire commissioners.

The Division shall use the information collected to establish separate databases of information on elected individuals, with at least one database sorted by gender identity or expression, and at least one sorted by race. The data will be located on the Division’s website by clicking here.

The statute may be viewed by clicking here.

The form may be viewed by clicking here.

Click here to view the Morris County Clerk’s Office Website

Morris Arts’ Ehlers and Coladarci Arts Scholarships Applications Due

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris Arts’ Ehlers and Coladarci Arts Scholarships Applications Due

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris Arts is pleased to offer two scholarship opportunities for graduating high school seniors who have exhibited artistic excellence in dance, drama, music, or visual arts and plan to pursue post-secondary studies at an accredited institution or acknowledged arts school or fine arts program. The Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship, in the amount of $5,000, and The Eugenie Coladarci Arts Scholarship, in the amount of $1,500, were created to recognize artistic excellence, encourage the artists of the future, and to celebrate the value of the arts to the human experience.

Morris County high school seniors graduating in June 2020 who are currently attending public, private, or parochial school in New Jersey are eligible. Applicants must: (a) be Morris County residents, (b) plan to pursue post-secondary studies at an accredited institution or acknowledged arts school or fine arts program, and (c) have demonstrated artistic excellence in any one of four (4) arts disciplines: dance, drama, music, or visual arts.

The Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship was established in 2002 in memory of Elaine Ehlers (1953-2001), a health-care administrator by profession, who had a voracious appetite for all things artistic and musical.  She derived intellectual and emotional sustenance from the arts and supported programs at many museums and musical institutions.  By establishing this scholarship, an enduring legacy has been created to reward those who possess artistic talent and who plan to further their arts education. Former Ehlers winners include pianist Daniel Shleyenkov; pianist and flutist Joshua Min; harpist, Ashley Jackson; singer/composer/lyricist/pianist, arranger/community musical organizer Deborah Neigher; jazz guitarist Alex Wintz; singer/composer Tom Barth;  visual artist Marissa Rich;  pianist Yuqing (Damon) Meng; ballroom/Latin dancer Daniel Knapp; ballet-modern dancer/ choreographer Madelyn Eltringham; trumpeter Joseph Soriano; actor Rachel Moss, percussionist Neal McNulty,  percussionist Reed Puleo, composer Zachary Catron, oboist Ethan Whang, pianist John Nguyen, dancer Leah Suskind and, most recently, violinist Ryan Nguyen.

The Eugenie Coladarci Arts Scholarship was first awarded in 1999 in memory of Eugenie R. Coladarci, who was Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at Chase Manhattan Bank and an active member of Morris Arts for eleven years. She was completing her first term as Board Chair when she passed away in 1997.  As a statewide champion of the arts, Gene encouraged the development of young artists and believed in the value of the arts to the quality of life.  The idea of a scholarship to assist talented young people wishing to continue their study in the arts was very important to her. Past winners include violinist Rebecca Racusin; visual artist Robert Douglas Fritz III; dancer Lauren Muraski; actor Ethan Saks; operatic soprano Chelsea Friedlander; visual artist Emily Trenk; visual artist Kaitlyn DeBiasse;  dancer Edward Teddy” Tedholm; soprano Alessandra Altieri; visual artist Catalina Ouyang; industrial designer Miriam Buchwald, industrial designer Daniel Hounsell, soprano Katherine Merwin, ballet dancer Tori Hey, visual artist Tyler Harker, soprano Lila K. Dunn, actress Nicole Giordano, soprano Sophia Grace Donelan and, most recently, visual artist Emma Schaberg.

Application information has been sent to all Morris County high school guidance offices and arts administrators for distribution. Applications are available through high school guidance offices as well as online at the Morris Arts website by clicking here. For more information, please email Lsiebert@morrisarts.org.

Applications must be emailed to Lsiebert@morrisarts.org – with the subject line marked “Scholarship” – no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 22.  Applicants will be judged by a committee consisting of panelists representing each artistic discipline. All panelists are professionals with a high level of expertise in university arts education and/or professional experience in the arts. Selection will be based on artistic excellence as demonstrated by the quality of the work samples and on the basis of application materials submitted to the panel. Winners will be notified by the end of February 2021.

Morris Arts, located in Morristown is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1973 dedicated to building community through the arts. Using the arts to inspire, connect and engage, Morris Arts serves as a resource for Morris County with a special focus on arts programming in the community and in schools, creative placemaking, arts advocacy, and support of the Morris Area community of artists and arts organizations.

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