It is my pleasure to recommend Aisha Mahmood as she throws her hat into the ring for a position on the Parsippany Board of Education
A graduate of Parsippany-Troy Hills High School and a resident of Parsippany for 30 years, Aisha brings a unique approach to her quest to aid in the future challenges facing the school community.
Aisha graduated from Kean University with a degree in biology. Since then she has worked in the pharmaceutical, financial, and telecommunication industries. She has 14 years of experience as a business and project manager and also 15 years as a real estate agent. It is a combination of skills gleaned from these varied professional experiences that make her singularly prepared to tackle the responsibilities of a school board member.
As a real estate agent, one has to be aware of federal and state laws, regulations, and local policies. This is a basic component of board decisions as well. Also, the board has to set the budget as well as the agenda of the schools, make rules and policies, and set learning standards, all the while being responsive to the values and beliefs of the community. In all her past jobs and professional life, Aisha has had to keep abreast of the latest technology to be effective. She has advised prospective clients on current market conditions and directed the negotiation process of real estate transactions. She remains open to learning about the expectations, goals, and needs of the district in learning how to provide the best educational experience the community can afford for its students, while working within the tax base, being aware of state and federal monies available.
Aisha believes that the district must prepare its students for entering college, the workforce, the military, or any other area in which individuals have an interest. “As a board member, I will strive to help our school system have what it needs to prepare our students to meet our changing world. Technology! I personally believe there should be more technology-related classes for students in a week.”
Although there are other candidates with more experience than Aisha has, she believes her professional experience together with her technical skills and business sensibilities provide her with a firm foundation to fill the needs of a school board position.
Please consider Aisha Mahmood for a position on the Parsippany Board of Education. VOTE 4, 5, 6 November 3!
I am not going to mince words. You need to vote for our incumbent Board Members: Matt DeVitto, Debbie Orme, and Tim Berrios; and here is why.
Experience matters! COVID remains a reality that affects our town and our schools. The school district has worked tirelessly to maintain a viable educational experience for students while maintaining a safe environment for both students and staff. It is not the right time to elect new Board Members that may require 6 to 12 months before they are able to be helpful.
Special Education! Matt, Debbie, and Tim remain committed to our students who are most at risk. They have supported several new initiatives that benefit these students. The STRIVE Program; expansion of classes for students with behavioral disabilities; and expanding access to social workers and school psychologists are only some of the enhancements they have supported.
Fiscal Responsibility! Matt, Debbie, and Tim have consistently worked to ensure that the interests of taxpayers are represented while providing high-quality educational programs to our students. They have worked hard so that the school budget tax levy has stayed at or below a 2% increase. Don’t you wish all your elected officials had this fiscal responsibility? Have you received Mayor Soriano’s water bill yet? You will not be happy!
Text Messages! Has your cell phone privacy been invaded by unsolicited text messages from John Titus, Aisha Mahmood, and Nilesh Bagdai? These Parsippany Board of Education challengers sent out hundreds of unsolicited text messages to Parsippany residents soliciting votes for themselves. This is unconscionable. Matt DeVitto, Debbie Orme, and Tim Berrios would never do this. Please nix 456!
Dark Money! Signs, postcards and ads cost thousands of dollars. Matt, Debbie, and Tim are self-funding their campaign. Every dollar spent has been provided by these hard-working Board of Education Members. Not so with the 4-5-6 ticket of John Titus, Aisha Mahmood, and Nilesh Bagdai. They have accepted thousands of dollars from out of town sources. John Titus and Aisha Mahmood both received $1,000 each from the progressive Political Action Committee, Millennials for NJ. Why would out of town sources pour thousands of dollars into a board of education election? I have no answers.
Please re-elect the hard-working team of Matt DeVitto, Debbie Orme, and Tim Berrios. Honesty, integrity, and experience are more important now than ever.
Sincerely, Andy Choffo
I am writing this letter as a private citizen and not in my capacity as a Board of Education Member.
PARSIPPANY — An early morning fire caused damage to three businesses, Towne Vision, Upper Cutz and ITech Computer on North Beverwyck Road and minor damage to number of apartments.
A two-story fire at 90-92 North Beverwyck Road brought Lake Hiawatha Fire Department District 4, Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 5, and Town of Boonton RIC, Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance, Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance, and Parsippany Rescue and Recovery to the scene at approximately 6:00 a.m.
Morris County Sheriffs’ investigation, Parsippany Police Department, Jersey Central Power, and Light as well as New Jersey Natural Gas was also at the scene.
American Red Cross also arrived to help the families displaced by the fire.
Fire at 92 North Beverwyck Road. Photo by Fireground Buff Network LLCFire at 92 North Beverwyck Road. Photo by Fireground Buff Network LLCFire at 92 North Beverwyck Road. Photo by Fireground Buff Network LLCFire at 92 North Beverwyck Road. Photo by Fireground Buff Network LLC
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers. The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of the team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/or at the refreshment area.
No medical background necessary. Volunteers should be outgoing to provide friendly customer service and be able to perform tasks as needed. Must have transportation. All training is provided including additional precautions for the safety of our team and blood donors.
For additional information call or text Sharon Zetts, Manager, NJBS Volunteer Services at (732) 850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
To apply online as a blood drive volunteer click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio welcomed word that the United States Department of Justice is actively investigating the COVID tragedies inside state-run veterans’ homes, and emphasized the need for the Senate to conduct its own inquiry.
According to published reports, in announcing the launch of a civil rights investigation the feds cited the state’s lack of cooperation with an earlier analysis and concerns about the quality of care at veterans’ facilities.
“It is unfortunate that it has come down to this, that the federal government is looking into the state’s troubling incompetency. At least somebody is listening,” said Pennacchio. “Along with colleagues in the Senate Republican Caucus, I have been saying all along that the Administration’s lack of transparency was troubling and unacceptable. We now know that they were not forthcoming with federal investigators.
“I am pleased that it appears the feds were listening when we called for their involvement in letters back in June and again on September 3, but this is no substitute for the Senate Select Committee with subpoena power we have been calling for since May. These are state-run nursing homes, and state policy put the residents and healthcare workers at risk,” Pennacchio said.
Reliable estimates, and numbers cited by the DOJ in announcing the investigation, show that almost 200 residents died from COVID at two veterans’ homes operated by the New Jersey.
“One of every three residents in the homes in Paramus and the Menlo Park facility in Edison lost their lives,” Pennacchio said. “Yet the Democrats in Trenton have consistently circled the wagons to protect the administration. Republican efforts to convene a select committee to review the impact of state policy and the decisions that may have contributed to the loss of life have been stymied at every turn as the whitewash continues.”
On Tuesday, it was revealed that another resident at the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home has tested positive for the virus. Sixty residents are awaiting results from their tests, according to NorthJersey.com.
In the first wave of COVID, 89 residents died at this one facility, and more than 200 residents and workers were infected.
“This is what we wanted to avoid, and if the Senate convened our committee in May when we first called for it, I am convinced nursing homes would be better prepared for new cases this winter,” Pennacchio said. “It is imperative that we hear from testimony from the insiders who know where the system failed, and know who failed the system.
“Every week that passes without a Senate investigation only makes it more difficult to prevent large-scale loss of life in our veterans’ homes and in nursing homes across the state where more than 7,100 vulnerable seniors were lost,” said Pennacchio.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Esq. advises that “The Morris County Clerk’s Office has received many calls from voters intending to cast their vote on a voting machine on Election Day.” This message clarifies what to expect at the polling location.
On August 14, 2020, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order 177, stipulating that the 2020 General Election be conducted exclusively by mail-in-ballot, which included additional stipulations on how the election will be run.
Based upon this Executive Order, a limited number of polling locations will be open on Election Day. Each polling location will house an American with Disabilities compliant audio voting device. “This means that only voters having a qualifying disability, such as impaired vision, and/or conditions that affect a voters’ ability to write and fill out a ballot, etc., will qualify to vote on the machine. All other voters will not qualify,” said Clerk Grossi.
Voters who choose to vote at their polling location and do not qualify to vote on the voting mechanism may do so in the following ways:
1. Voters may personally deposit their completed mail-in-ballot package at their polling location. (May not deliver others.)
2. Voters who do not bring their completed mail-in ballot package with them to the polling location, may vote on a paper Provisional Ballot.
3. Provisional Ballots are counted after all vote by mail ballots are counted as they must be verified and checked against mail-in ballots received by the Board of Elections.
The Board of Elections is a separate and independent agency from the County Clerk’s Office responsible for receiving, verifying, and counting all paper ballots, polling locations, poll workers, and voting machines.
Click here or visit the Facebook page facebook.com/morriscountyclerk and Twitter account twitter.com/morrisctyclerk for updates and frequently asked questions pertaining to the 2020 General Election.
PARSIPPANY — “Earlier this month, the Republican-majority Township Council and I reluctantly, but unanimously, approved a plan increasing water and sewer rates by 39%. The Township auditor and budget consultant proposed – after an exhaustive fiscal analysis – that anything less than this action would leave the Township in a disastrous financial position.
I want to address the reasons for this increase, the history that led us to this point, and to separate the lies from the truth. Before I begin, let me say this: I am here to report to you the facts surrounding our Township’s finances.
Now, If you don’t trust me because of my political party, or from negative things you’ve heard about me or my administration, I really do hope that you’ll give me a chance. I never dreamt of having a political career. I left a secure, steady, and solid career to run for Mayor because I saw problems in our town that needed to be fixed. Those seeking favors from the Township often threaten me with votes. It never works.
It is my honor and privilege to serve you, and I believe true public service means looking out for the long-term interests of our community.
Now let’s start with some background. For several years, the Township has inched closer to a major shortfall in our water and sewer utilities. Until this year, water and sewer rates had not increased since 2006. Robbing Peter to pay Paul created a problem because it doesn’t allow for rising costs and flat revenue.
This crunch was inevitable given the Township’s long-standing reliance on the water and sewer funds to balance the municipal budget. Many have asked why these increases have happened in 2020, not in 2018 or 2019.
First, significantly smaller increases were proposed in 2018 and 2019. They were not approved. This compounded the growing shortfall. Second, this was the final year we could have kept the water and sewer rates stagnant without both utilities going bankrupt. A major rate increase and bankruptcy were our only options.
If I had a choice, there would’ve been no rate increase this year. But I did not have a choice. The Council did not have a choice. And if you were in my shoes, you would not have had a choice, either. Myself and the members of the Council – Democrats and Republicans – pay the same water and sewer fees that you do.
Why was this rate increase approved unanimously? Because all members of the governing body recognized the severity of Parsippany’s fiscal issues, with deep and longstanding roots in past budgeting practices. This drastic change could have been avoided years ago. In most towns, water and sewer rates increase by small amounts each year, and water and sewer funds are rarely transferred to balance the municipal budget. Regrettably, those principles weren’t followed here, and we’re paying the price today.
Unfortunately, a number of lies have emerged around this issue. I will address them directly.
PARSIPPANY — Charles J. Bedi, 81, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2020, at his home.
He was born in and raised in the Bronx. Charlie lived in Lake Hiawatha for 58 years.
Charlie was an Offset Printing Professional retiring from Graphic Packaging in Piscataway after many years.
He was a past chief and president of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Squad in Lake Hiawatha.
He was pre-deceased by his late wife: Alicia E. (Morrison) who passed away on August 28, 2001, and his late son-in-law: Michael W. Coll who passed away on December 1, 2005.
Survivors include his partner of sixteen years: Margaret Calvetto; his sons: Charles Joseph and his wife Christine; Robert M. and his wife Debbie; his daughter: Karen L. Coll; and his nine grandchildren: Brian, Alicia, Colin, Molly, Ryan, Ben, Lauren, Christopher, and Nick. Charlie is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Liturgy of Christian burial Friday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter the Apostle R.C. Church 179 Baldwin Road, Parsippany. Entombment: Private.
Visitation will be on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Par-Troy Funeral Home 95 Parsippany Road, Parsippany (973) 887-3235 or click here.
In lieu of flowers please make donations in his memory to Parsippany Rescue and Recovery P.O. Box 45 Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
Charlie was on R&R for over 40 years and served as a judge of the parade committee. He was the one who fought for the building in Lake Hiawatha. He served this town with pride. They were his second family.He was on R&R for over 40 years and served as a judge of the parade committee. He was the one who fought for the building in Lake Hiawatha. He served this town with pride. They were his second family.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council renewed the Retail Liquor License for Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas at its regular council meeting held on October 20.
In March 2019, Cinépolis USA, a leading world-class cinema exhibitor known for its enhanced movie-going concepts announced multi-million dollar renovations to enhance its existing New Jersey theater locations in Parsippany and Mansfield. Mansfield renovations have been completed.
Cinépolis closed its third New Jersey location. The Cinépolis Succasunna theater in the Roxbury Mall showed its last movie Sunday evening, January 5.
Following completion, both cinemas will offer guests an enhanced movie-going experience with fully-reclining leather seats, cutting-edge sound, high-definition projection technology, and an upscale lounge-style lobby to anchor the entry space. Additionally, both cinemas will offer in-seat food delivery when ordering hot food items from the new gourmet menu at the concession stand, or when ordered in advance through the Cinépolis USA mobile app.
Following its completion, the 38,865-square-foot project will encompass 12 film screens and 719 seats.
Parsippany location has been closed since the beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Cinépolis is located at 3165 Route 46, Morris Hills Shopping Center.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board approved the PARQ proposal on Monday, October 5. The vote was 5-2. Ms. Judy Hernandez and Mr. Dominic Mele voted against the project.
The plan is for an upscale mixed-use development encompassing 75 high-end townhomes, 525 luxury apartments, 16,000 square feet of experiential retail, invigorating green spaces, and state of the art facilities to be known as PARQ Parsippany.
It will also include athletic fields and recreational facilities that will be integrated into the community for public events, sports programs, and open to Township residents.
PARQ Parsippany will usher in a new era of Lanidex Plaza, a suburban office complex built in the mid-1970s to early 1980s set on 45 acres with 450,000 square feet of commercial office space.
The transformation from Lanidex Plaza to PARQ Parsippany will meet the demand of the ever-changing needs of lifestyle for the next generation while reacclimating the property back into the fiber within Parsippany’s community.
The proposal includes 525 apartments located in Buildings 1 and 2 and 75 three-bedroom Townhomes. In addition Building 1 will contain approximately 2,600 square feet of retail (orange area) and Building 2 will contain approximately 8,140 square feet of retail (orange area).
The proposed development at Lanidex Plaza. The proposal includes 525 apartments located in Building 1 and 2 and 75 three-bedroom TownhomesBuilding 1 will consist of 275 units in a six-story building with an attached six-story parking garage. The building will consist of 17 studio apartments, 134 one-bedroom apartments, 60 two-bedroom apartments, and 4 three-bedroom apartments. In addition, it will include 12 low to moderate-income one-bedroom units, 36 low income to moderate two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom low to moderate income housing.Building 2 will consist of 250 units in a six-story building with an attached six-story parking garage. The building will consist of 26 studio apartments, 144 one-bedroom apartments, and 20 two-bedroom apartments. In addition, it will include 12 low to moderate-income one-bedroom units, 36 low to moderate-income two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom low to moderate-income housing.Typical Three-Bedroom Townhome
The Owners’ have carefully considered and listened to the Township to develop a vision that will reenergize the property and seamlessly integrate it with the design and planning to transcend expectations and complement the community.
The pool area with spa and sun shelf including, lounge seating and shade structure. The adjacent area includes BBQ grills, billiards, and ping pong and bar seating; Lounge seating with a fire pit.
The transformation of the property will commence with Phase I and II with anticipated completion in 2025. The development plan was crafted to accommodate the existing tenants in the complex.
The residential component will include luxury apartments with elegant hotel-style lobby, club suite, co-working alcoves, private event rooms, state-of-the-art fitness centers, resort-style pools with BBQ and lounge areas, and townhomes which will feature contemporary farmhouse style architecture with a private clubhouse, outdoor pool, and highly amenitized indoor and outdoor spaces.
Phase I includes the development of the 75 Townhomes. It is estimated that phase will take sixteen months to complete. Phase II includes Building 1, expected to take twenty months to complete. Phase III (Building 2) will start construction approximately twelve months after the completion of Phase II and will take approximately twenty months to complete.
This complex is being developed without any (Payment in lieu of Taxes) PILOT programs.
Editors Note: This project is also part of Parsippany’s COAH obligations which is currently in review at the Courts.
Click here to view the Planning Board Meeting of Monday, October 5.
During the meeting, resident Daniela Valenzano stated her concerns about bussing and overcrowding. She stated, “We are already at $3 million in bussing. All of my children went to Eastlake, Brooklawn, and Parsippany Hills. They were overcrowded then. They are overcrowded now.” The students would tentatively attend Eastlake School, Brooklawn Middle School, and Parsippany Hills High School. The complex is less than two miles from Eastlake School and approximately 2.3 miles to Brooklawn Middle School and 2.5 miles to Parsippany Hills High School.
Attorney Joseph O’Neil stated “The law provides that the school board is only responsible to bus children two miles or beyond. However, we have committed to providing for busing. It’s a school board’s discretion. It’s completely up to the school board. That’s the offer. And that stands out.” The applicant offered to provide “subscription bussing.”
Member Dominic Mele questioned “Mr. O’Neill regarding the main entrance off the road, it’s currently a private road, is it not? What is the intention of the applicant? The applicant would have to be responsible for snow removal is not correct.” Mr.O’Neill responded, “There’s a series of laws governing that and we will comply with that.”
Valenzano then stated “Because it’s going to deplete the resources and kill the taxpayers. So we’re either going to have to build new schools because you’re grossly underestimating the number of children that are coming into this development. You’re grossly underestimating the traffic; There are no air reports. I’m not even gonna get into that. We didn’t discuss it, but these buildings are got higher over COVID. They didn’t get smaller. They got higher. You try to squeeze in into two extra two bedrooms. Thank God the board shot that down. A lot of decisions were made without taking into consideration. The taxpayers are going to bore the brunt of this. We’re all sitting here on hold, waiting for answers. We’re taxed to death in this town. Our water and sewer bill is going up 39%. You’re telling us you have enough water at the last meeting. No one got to speak on that. Not one person here believes we have enough water for all of these projects you guys are doing. We’re going to be paying through the nose. I think we deserve an answer. That’s why we’re here for the third time. Just tell us what it’s going to cost.”
Board Attorney Scott Carlson said Truthfully the ability of these kids to access the school is really outside the (Planning) board’s jurisdiction tonight. What is within the borders? Jurisdiction is accessing on and off the site. And the applicant has provided testimony to that effect, whether or not that’s sufficient or insufficient. I leave that to the board. I’m not a deciding member. You know, air quality, these are the issues. These issues were decided long ago by the township council.”
During the public comment section resident, Iva Pohner said “As soon as the redevelopment plans became public, I have studied the plans and I’m shocked by an apparent disregard for health and well-being, the current and future residents of this community. My views are based on facts and studies but also based on common sense and deeply rooted fear for my health and the health of my family. Our small development is sandwiched between routes 287, 80, and very busy Parsippany Road. The traffic volume has steadily increased in one’s quiet and healthy space is now one of the most polluted places in the metropolitan areas. We all know that the interchange between 287 and 80 is bumper to bumper parking every morning and afternoon when people go to and from work. And it is also a major truck route. I’ve monitored air pollution on daily basis in the spring using a readily available iPhone app. And the pollution was the same as the busy streets of Manhattan… I think we should be looking to improve the situation for current residents and not subject future residents to this. The proposal was presented as modern and inspired. What is modern or inspired about the location of a playground and sports fields or apartment building right next to route 287 and 80, who will send their kids to play there?”
Former Mayor James Barberio said “This project will be a traffic nightmare for our residents, particularly residents in Lake Parsippany who know all too well that so many roads cannot handle the additional traffic caused by over 600 new housing units. The associated and the height of the project. My administration was presented with very similar proposals. We studied it and determined that the impacts on our town particularly traffic impacts just were enormously bad. I rejected proposals like this when I was Mayor because I knew then what I still know now, this project will ruin the quality of life for our Lake Parsippany community. My traffic experts concluded that this extra traffic would create unsafe conditions on Parsippany Road for residents needing to get into onto Parsippany Road from Lake Parsippany. I’ve listened to the testimony, and I didn’t hear any analysis to address that point, except that onsite. You can only vote with regards to onsite traffic, but basically, the onsite traffic is going to create a hazard for the off-site traffic.” He continued to say “I know the whole thing with the affordable housing, I’ve dealt with it, but I’ve had people sit there when I was Mayor, maybe one or two on the board, tried to beat me up with the Whole Foods, but you never got an affordable housing on it. Not one ounce of affordable housing on it. The bottom line is this. It’s unsafe. This will make proximity roads unsafe. I know the board members have a very, very tough decision to make, and I know your hands are tied. I know the COAH rules and fair share housing. I know all that. And my heart goes out to you because of whatever decision you make, it’s not going to be easy. Thank you for your time.”
“I’ve been concerned about this project from the start when over 2,000 units of housing were proposed for this complex,” Mayor Michael Soriano said. “While we were able to knock the unit count down by nearly three-quarters, I remain concerned about the strain this development will put on Parsippany Road and municipal services. Unfortunately, we are in a position where the courts are partially dictating development in Parsippany.”
In the closing statement, Joseph O’Neill said Thank you, Mr. Chairman, just thought I’ll thank the board for its time over these last three nights, I’ll remind you that we are here for a fully compliant application with the requirements that were adopted as part of the affordable housing plan adopted by the council. That was subject to years of discussion, both under the Barberio Administration and the current administration as to what that plan was going to look like. And at the ultimate adoption of that plan, Lanidex was included in that plan. An ordinance and overlay ordinance was adopted, and we comply fully with the requirements of that ordinance. The issues regarding traffic, all these other issues, we’ve addressed these issues as they applied to this application. If there are other issues that need to be handled in redevelopment, we can talk about that. The site was also designated for redevelopment. We should keep it just to what this application is, which is what you see before you, and part an important part of the plan. I know that the town is still in court with the plan. We’ll be attending a hearing on Wednesday. We look forward to reporting that the board approved this project. Thank you very much.”
Before a resolution was formalized, Attorney Joe O’Neill reminded the board “This ordinance was adopted as part of the plan that was adopted by the court. Now, the township hasn’t finalized that plan because of various issues that came up Normally, if you deny an application to fully comply with an ordinance, we just get a prerogative RIT lawsuit. But we would be forced to file a contempt proceeding that the township had violated its settlement agreement with the fair share housing. That would open up the township to additional issues. So it’s two-pronged. It’s really the normal prerogative RIT case you would have if you denied something. And all you’re supposed to be doing is measuring this application against the ordinance. Then the other issue is that ordinance was adopted as part of that plan. You can’t modify the plan in the way Councilman dePierro is suggesting, not at this point. So you would be in violation of that plan. I might be able to alleviate some of the concerns by offering that my client has just instructed. We will remove building 700 from the application. We don’t have to do that. That is beyond the ordinance requirements that were adopted but to facilitate and to address some of the concerns of the board, we’re willing to offer that.”
PARSIPPANY — Provident Financial Services, Inc. the parent company of Provident Bank, announced today that the acquisition of SB One Bancorp and its subsidiary, SB One Bank, closed effective July 31, 2020.
Under the terms of the merger agreement, each outstanding share of SB One common stock will be exchanged for 1.357 shares of Provident common stock together with cash in lieu of any fractional shares. The combined organization will have approximately $12 billion in assets and will rank as the 3rd largest bank headquartered in New Jersey. The merger brings together two high-performing companies with complementary geographies and business lines.
“We welcome the customers, employees, and shareholders of SB One to the Provident team. We also welcome Edward Leppert, Robert McNerney, and Anthony Labozzetta to our Boards of Directors. I especially look forward to Tony joining our executive management team as President and Chief Operating Officer,” said Christopher Martin, Chairman, and CEO of Provident.
Piper Sandler & Co. served as financial advisor and Luse Gorman, PC provided legal counsel to Provident. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company, served as a financial advisor, and Hogan Lovells US LLP served as legal counsel to SB One.
Provident Bank is located at 401 Smith Road, Parsippany.
There are several instructional initiatives coming up that will require some schedule modifications. Please review this information carefully and contact your child’s school principal with questions.
Friday, October 30 will be a Virtual half day. The afternoon will be an Inservice Day for Staff. Teachers will be available for students during the morning for instruction, questions, check-ins, etc. Elementary special education students in self-contained classes (PreK-5) will follow their regular schedule, including afternoon classes.
Tuesday, November 3 (Election Day) will be a fully remote Virtual day for everyone. Week A students will attend in-person Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. We were hoping to continue instruction for our youngest and neediest students on this day, but the Governor’s directive about closing all public schools on Election Day is non-negotiable.
Parent-Teacher Conferences (PreK-8) will be held on Friday, November 20, and Monday, November 23, and Tuesday, November 24. (Half Days for K-8)
Friday, November 20 – Virtual half day: Teachers will be available for students during the morning for Virtual Friday instruction, questions, check-ins, etc. Elementary special education students in self-contained classes (PreK-5) will follow their regular schedule, including afternoon classes.
Monday, November 23: Week A elementary and middle schools will follow their regular early dismissal schedule; afternoon virtual instruction will not occur on these days. Elementary special education students in self-contained classes (PreK-5) will follow their regular schedule, including afternoon classes.
Tuesday, November 24: Week B elementary and middle schools will follow their regular early dismissal schedule; afternoon virtual instruction will not occur on these days. Elementary special education students in self-contained classes (PreK-5) will follow their regular schedule, including afternoon classes.
Wednesday, November 25 will be a Virtual ½ Day for ALL PreK-12 students. No students will attend in-person and principals will communicate the schedule for this day.
As our region experiences an increase in the number of positive cases, it is critical that we continue to adhere to safety guidelines and minimize exposure. We know that indoor gatherings and large events are the riskiest. If you will be attending an event:
Prioritize attending outdoor activities over indoor activities and stay within your local area as much as possible.
Bring supplies to help you and others stay healthy—for example, masks (bring extra), hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, and drinking water.
Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet or more from people who don’t live in your household. Be particularly mindful in areas where it may harder to keep this distance, such as check-in areas, parking lots, and entry/exit.
Select seating or determine where to stand based on the ability to keep 6 feet of space from people who don’t live in your household, including if you will be eating or drinking.
Arrive to the event early or at off-peak times to avoid crowding and congested areas.
Avoid using restroom facilities or concession areas at high traffic times, such as intermission and half-time.
Wear a mask when interacting with other people to minimize the risk of transmitting the virus.
Avoid self-serve food or drink options, such as buffets, salad bars, and drink stations. Use grab-and-go meal options, if available.
Use disposable food service items including utensils and dishes, if available.
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer immediately before eating food or after touching any common surfaces like hand railings, payment kiosks, door handles, and toilets.
Please continue to make smart choices that will keep your family and our school community healthy and safe.
Sincerely, Barbara Sargent, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools
PARSIPPANY — Mount Tabor PTA is excited to offer its first-ever fundraising event with Psychic Medium Drew Cali. Drew will be hosting a Zoom event, “Hello from Heaven,” on Thursday, November 19 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Proceeds from the event will go toward building and grounds improvements at Mount Tabor Elementary School.
Drew will connect various audience members with loved ones who have crossed over, providing evidence of life afterlife as well as heartfelt messages of love, hope, inspiration, and healing.
Born a natural Psychic and Medium, Drew’s intention is to assist people with opening their hearts and minds to an all-inclusive universal spirituality for all to access and explore.
Group sessions are an excellent source of emotional healing, forgiveness, laughter, and communion for all. However, please note that attendance does not guarantee a reading.
The event is guaranteed to run at least 90 minutes. Two ticket options are available: $45.00 for one guest or $65.00 for two guests sharing a screen. Must be 18 or older to attend. Purchase tickets by clicking here.
Questions can be directed to mt.taborptaboard@gmail.com.
PARSIPPANY — Immunization Clinic for Dogs and Cats will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2020, at the Office of Emergency building, at the Recycling Center, 1 Pumphouse Road.
Must wear masks and maintain social distancing.
Dogs
No charge for dogs (Dogs 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.)
Dogs must be restrained on a leash and accompanied by an adult
Cats
No charge for cats (Cats 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
Cats must be restrained in carriers or similar carrying devices
Any questions please call the health department at (973) 263-7160.
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 191. The Order extends the Public Health Emergency that was declared on March 9, 2020, through Executive Order No. 103, which was previously extended on April 7, May 6, June 4, July 2, August 1, August 27, and September 25. Under the Emergency Health Powers Act, a declared public health emergency expires after 30 days unless renewed.
“Today’s new COVID-19 case count marks our highest daily figure since May,” said Governor Murphy. “As we face a steep increase in cases, it could not be more important to ensure we have access to all available resources. Keeping New Jerseyans safe is our highest priority, today and every day. We are again extending the Public Health Emergency in order to do exactly that.”
Executive Order No. 191 extends all Executive Orders issued under the Governor’s authority under the Emergency Health Powers Act. It also extends all actions taken by any Executive Branch departments and agencies in response to the Public Health Emergency presented by the COVID-19 outbreak.
For the full text of Executive Order No. 191, click here.
PARSIPPANY — Let families know Trick or Treaters are welcome at your house! The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is offering FREE lawn signs to let the community know children can stop by for some trick or treating this Halloween!
Click here to register for the Township of Parsippany’s Halloween Safety Sign.
Pick up at the Parsippany Police Athletic League, 33 Baldwin Road, or PAL can deliver it to your residence the day before Halloween.
For more information, please contact the Police Athletic League at (973) 335-0555 or email info@parsippanypal.org.
PARSIPPANY — Send a Christmas Tree to a Military Family in Need! Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouses’ will provide military families in need with a Christmas tree this holiday season.
For just $30.00, you can send a beautiful Christmas tree to a service member’s family! Please make your donation by December 1.
Trees for Troops is a 501(c)(3) organization.
On Saturday, December 5, Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouses, and volunteers from the military and other local community groups load up trailers with fresh-cut Christmas trees bound for delivery. Look for additional details as the socially-distanced event is finalized.
Make checks payable to Cerbo’s Parsippany Greenhouse and mail to 440 Littleton Road, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054. (You can also drop off your donation).
For more information call (973) 334-2623 or click here for more information.
MOUNTAIN LAKES — Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal and the Division of Consumer Affairs announced that they have reached settlements with two car dealerships resolving alleged violations of the Consumer Fraud Act (“CFA”), the Used Car Lemon Law, and other regulations governing the sale and advertising of motor vehicles. Both dealerships have agreed to change their business practices, pay civil penalties, and enter binding arbitration to resolve consumer complaints.
“Buying a car is one of the biggest purchases most consumers make in their lifetimes, and buyers shouldn’t have to worry about being misled by deceptive practices,” said Attorney General Grewal. “Holding these businesses accountable shows how seriously we take consumer complaints and our duty to enforce the laws in place to ensure transparency and honesty in New Jersey’s marketplace.”
Auto Holding, Inc. Auto Holding and Auto Holding 46 (“Auto Holding”), with locations at 74 Route 46, Mountain Lakes and Hillside, agreed to a $105,000 settlement – which includes $97,345 in civil penalties – to resolve allegations that the dealership violated the CFA, and other consumer protection laws and regulations by:
misrepresenting the condition of its used motor vehicles, telling at least one customer that vehicles were serviced and/or inspected prior to sale when that was not the case;
failing to disclose prior damage and rental history when such information was known or should have been known by the dealership;
misrepresenting the prior history and use of its used motor vehicles, showing at least one customer a clean Carfax report when in fact the true report revealed prior accident and rental history;
failing to honor the advertised price, requiring consumers to present a copy of the online advertisement and obtain a manager’s signature to receive the advertised price; and
failing to pay off a third-party warranty after selling the warranty to a customer.
In a consent order with the Division, Auto Holding also agreed to enter binding arbitration to resolve 21 complaints from affected consumers and any additional consumer complaints received by the Division for a period of one year. Under the terms of the order, $30,000 in civil penalties will be suspended and automatically vacated at the expiration of one year provided Auto Holding complies with the terms of the consent order and does not engage in any acts or practices in violation of the CFA.
Bridge Dealer Services, Inc.
Bridge Auto Group and Everybody Drivez located in Hasbrouck Heights and Berlin, agreed to a $60,000 settlement – which includes $54,780.23 in civil penalties – to resolve allegations that the dealership violated the CFA as well as other consumer protection laws and regulations by:
failing to include the mandatory disclosure language in advertisements;
misrepresenting its Better Business Bureau and Yelp ratings on the company’s website;
failing to disclose prior damage to its used vehicles when such information was known or should have been known by the dealership;
charging consumers for pre-delivery services, including dealer preparation fees, without itemizing on the sales document the cost of each specific service; and
failing to provide consumers with a written warranty, as required by the Used Car Lemon Law.
In a consent order with the Division, Bridge Auto also agreed to enter binding arbitration to resolve any additional consumer complaints received by the Division for a period of one year. Under the terms of the order, $25,000 in civil penalties will be suspended and automatically vacated at the expiration of two years, provided Bridge Auto complies with the terms of the consent order and does not engage in any acts or practices in violation of the CFA.
“Consumers should be able to rely on the information and vehicle history provided by a dealership when buying a used car,” said Paul R. Rodríguez, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “These settlements are an example of our commitment to protect consumers from fraud, and to ensure businesses disclose all the information required by law, allowing consumers to make informed decisions before purchasing a vehicle.”
Investigator Kelly Fennell, of the Division of Consumer Affairs’ Office of Consumer Protection, and Deputy Attorney General Robert N. Holup, of the Consumer Fraud Prosecution Section within the Division of Law’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group, handled the matter for the State.
Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of consumer abuse, can file an online complaint with the Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or call 1-800-242-5846 to receive a complaint form by mail.
It is my pleasure to recommend Aisha Mahmood as she throws her hat into the ring for a position on the Parsippany Board of Education
He was pre-deceased by his late wife: Alicia E. (Morrison) who passed away on August 28, 2001, and his late son-in-law: Michael W. Coll who passed away on December 1, 2005.
