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Craig A. Mascenik, 29, Passed Away

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — Craig Allan Mascenik, 29, passed away suddenly, Friday, November 20, 2020 at his home in Byram.

Born in Ridgewood he had lived in the Parsippany, Lake Hiawatha, Mount Tabor area for twenty years, and in Sparta before coming to Byram.

Craig was self-employed and had worked in landscaping, auto repair, and most recently construction.

He was an avid Chargers and Rangers fan.

Survivors include his loving parents, Richard J. and Patricia A. (nee Leahy) Mascenik; his beloved siblings, John Mascenik and his wife Michelle, Justin Mascenik and his companion, Samantha Hoffman, Colin Mascenik, and Chelsea Mascenik; his nephews and niece, Clyde, Maverick, and Elvira Mascenik; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit Friday evening, November 27, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at S.J. Priola Parsippany Funeral Service, 60 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, November 28, 12:30 p.m. at St. Peter the Apostle R.C. Church, Parsippany. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to The Sunrise House, 37 Sunset Inn Road, Lafayette, NJ 07848 For further information click here.

 

 

To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge #2078 Donates to Parsippany Food Pantry

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Joseph P Serrecchia, Exalted Ruler, Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge #2078 gives Michele Picone a donation

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge #2078 donated $2,000 to Parsippany Food Pantry.  Accepting the donation from Joseph Serrecchia, Exalted Ruler, is Michele Picone from Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Human Services. The Lodge donated the money to the food bank to make a difference in our community as people find themselves unemployed or underemployed due to the pandemic. The need is greater and the opportunity to positively and immediately impact the community is greater.

On June 1, the Elks National Foundation released $3.7 million for the Spotlight Grants. These $2,000 grants are available to every Lodge to shine the light on COVID-19 relief, for there is no more pressing issue facing American communities than the response to the pandemic. But the needs will look different in different communities, so we’ve built in more flexibility this year. As people find themselves unemployed or underemployed, local food banks and food pantries will feel the strain and will have an increased need for donations and supplies.

The Parsippany Emergency Food Pantry is located at Parsippany Community Center, 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha, and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For additional information call (973) 263-7163.

 

Morris County Freeholders Aid Local Merchants While Honoring Small Business Saturday

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders authorized the distribution of COVID-19 protective gear to local merchants today, as they unanimously proclaimed Nov. 28, 2020, to be “Small Business Saturday” through a resolution that also urged the public to “Shop Small” after the Thanksgiving holiday.

Infrared thermometers, a 50-count box of face masks and employee signage will be provided to each Morris County business owner who applies for the supplies, for as long as those supplies last. The gear is intended to help small merchants keep employees safe, protect customers, and continue to do business under increasing operational restrictions imposed by the state in response to the pandemic.

“We will be working with both the Morris County Hispanic-American Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce in this effort as we continue our support for small businesses who have been particularly hard hit this year. We also believe the national campaign for Small Business Saturday has a greater significance this year in light of the many small businesses that have closed due to the pandemic,” said Freeholder John Krickus, Chair of the Morris County Economic Recovery Task Force.

Small businesses that frequently interact with the public may request a handheld infrared thermometer and a box of 50 disposable surgical masks by completing and submitting an application found by clicking here.

The damage COVID-19 has brought to family businesses is still being tallied by economists.  But Forbes recently reported an estimated 100,000 businesses have shut down permanently due to the pandemic and related lock-downs.

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), a nonprofit small-business advocacy group, recently reported that one in five business owners anticipates they will not survive the year if current economic trends continue.

“I fully identify with what these small business owners are going through and what it takes to make a payroll in these times because I am also a small business owner.  While I’ve been fortunate, I’ve watched others struggle to keep in business and it hasn’t been easy. I hope we can inspire more people to patronize our small businesses not just on Saturday after Thanksgiving, but all year long,” said Freeholder Thomas Mastrangelo, a board liaison to economic development and the chambers of commerce.

The Small Business Saturday and “Shop Small” campaign were launched a decade ago by American Express to help small businesses and urge consumers to shop within their own communities during the holiday season.  More than 80 percent of Morris County businesses have 20 employees or fewer, putting them firmly at the front end of the small business spectrum, and one-third of workers here are employed at companies with under 100 employees, according to the latest data available from the Current Population Survey of the U.S. Census.

“On behalf of our members and small businesses throughout Morris County, I would like to thank the county government and the freeholder board for their generosity in making these thermometers and face masks available,” said Meghan Hunscher, president of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce and Morris County Economic Development Corporation.  “This is especially timely as this coming Saturday, November 28, is Small Business Saturday, which encourages shoppers to patronize local small businesses. With the county’s support, these small businesses will now be full prepared to safely welcome shoppers on this busy day.”

Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, New Jersey was home to an estimated 884,049 small, which made up 99.6 percent of all businesses in the state, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.  Those companies also employed about half of the 3.6 million private-sector workers in New Jersey last year.

The 2019 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey reported that 95 percent of consumers who shopped on Small Business Saturday last year said it made them want to shop or eat at small, independently-owned businesses all year long, not just during the holiday season.

Nationally, in 2019, consumers reported spending a record $19.6 billion at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday, according to a survey contracted by American Express and the NFIB.  On average, for every dollar spent at local small businesses, 67 cents stays in the local community, according to a 2018 survey authorized by American Express and NFIB.

Mack-Cali Announces $12.75 Million Sale of 7 Campus Drive

By
Frank L. Cahill
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7 Campus Drive

PARSIPPANY — Mack-Cali Realty Corporation announced the sale of 7 Campus Drive, a 154,820-square-foot office building to Birch Group for approximately $12.75 million.

“We have been deliberate and diligent in following through on our strategic suburban disposition strategy and this is yet another example of the team’s continued work,” said MaryAnne Gilmartin, Board Chair and Interim Chief Executive Officer of Mack-Cali.“Divesting non-core assets will enable us to refocus on our key priorities, namely the repositioning of our Harborside office campus and paying down corporate debt.”

This sale brings the year-to-date suburban office dispositions total to $270.35 million.

“We have buyer activity on every piece of our suburban portfolio and expect to continue to execute additional sales in the coming months,” said Ricardo Cardoso, EVP and Chief Investment Officer of Mack-Cali.

 

Parsippany Green Team is Looking for New Members

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — Would you like to have more control and influence over the future you and your children will share?  By engaging in local projects and decision making you can make a positive impact and improve the quality of life in our town, in our state, and in the world.  If this sounds interesting, the Parsippany Green Team offers an opportunity for you to apply your passion and skills to make this happen.

As you can see on the Facebook page (Click here), the mission is to collaborate with the residents, town government, and business community to identify and implement programs that improve our quality of life and the physical, environmental and financial sustainability of our community. In Oct 2019, the Parsippany Town Council adopted Resolution 2019-192, supporting participating in the Sustainable NJ municipal certification. Forming a Green Team of interested residents and municipal employees is part of this process.

They are looking for individuals who have ideas on how to improve life in Parsippany.  Chances are those ideas may fall in one of the Green Team’s existing areas of interest.  You may also propose that the Green Team add your “innovative project” to their list.  Their current areas of interest include:

  • Improving animal/human interactions in the community
  • Bringing arts and creative culture to the community and municipal activities
  • Addressing the problems and opportunities of brownfields
  • Creating community partnership and outreach to improve sustainability
  • Improving diversity and equity in municipal operations and decisions
  • Improving emergency management and resiliency to protect citizens from climate change and other risks
  • Reducing energy usage, improving energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing use of green energy technologies, transitioning to electric vehicles
  • Increasing availability and quality of food
  • Incorporating green design principles in all forms of construction
  • Ensuring health and wellness issues are incorporated in all municipal actions
  • Ensuring land use and transportation plans support all stakeholders, including stormwater management and historic preservation
  • Increasing and recognizing green business actions and improving the local economy
  • Protecting and improving the use of natural resources including water, open space, trees/woodlands and increasing consideration of environmental issues in local developments
  • Adopting green policies in purchasing, operations, and maintenance activities
  • Improving public information and engagement in municipal activities
  • Measuring and reducing municipal and resident carbon footprints, developing climate and sustainability action plans
  • Reducing waste and improving management including composting, recycling, and reuse programs.

You can find more details about each of these areas by clicking here.

“The existence of a municipally sanctioned Green Team makes it much easier for anyone who joins to implement a program since it will have the support of both the experienced members of the team as well as the township government and administration,” said Matt Kavanagh, leader of the PGT.  “We are looking for people who want to make a difference, no experience necessary.  All you need is a desire to improve life in Parsippany and a willingness to take action,” he added.

“Local action is incredibly important if we are going to improve our environment and increase our sustainability,” said PGT co-leader, Judy Hernandez.  “With this initiative, we all have an opportunity to participate to improve the common good. We have an abundance of talent in our town and every action, no matter the size can have a ripple effect. I encourage anyone who wants to be a part of this positive mission to join our team.”

Interested residents can contact the PGT at parsippanygreenteam@gmail.com.

 

 

 

Parsippany-Troy Hills to Hold Council Meeting of November 24 Virtually

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani, Council President Michael dePierro, Councilwoman Emily Peterson, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Councilwoman Janice McCarthy

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will conduct its regularly scheduled council meeting Tuesday, November 24 at 7:00 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.

Click here to join the meeting.

For more information, please contact the Township Clerk’s office at (973) 263-4351 or email pthclerk@parsippany.net.

Morris County Clerk Announces Annual Cover Contest

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Clerk Ann F. Grossi, Esq. invites Morris County High School students to participate in the annual 2021 Morris County Cover Contest. Please note that this competition is limited to high school students in Morris County.

The top three images, selected by a panel of judges, will receive a financial reward and the 1st place winner’s design will be used as the cover for the 2021 Morris County Manual. The financial awards for the winning contestants are as follows:

FIRST PRIZE: $500.00

SECOND PRIZE: $200.00

THIRD PRIZE: $100.00

The manual has been produced by the Clerk’s office since 1906 and contains valuable information regarding county and municipal services and departments as well as lists of appointed and elected officials, their addresses, and telephone numbers. Consequently, the manual is used extensively as a resource by government officials and county residents. I invite you to take a look at a copy of the 2020 manual by clicking the link below.

The winning contestants, their art teachers, and guests will be honored at a continental breakfast reception in my private conference room, contingent upon COVID-19 gathering guidelines. Additionally, the top three designs will be displayed in the foyer leading to my office.

Click here to find the rules for entry. Please note that the contest is only open to students who are currently enrolled in a Morris County High School, students must provide the name of their art teacher, grade, and name of their school in the body of the email upon submission.

Please note that all 2021 Morris County Manual submissions must be received by December 4, 2020.

For more details click here.

A’Viance Hair & Nail Salon Celebrates its Grand Re-Opening

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee Chairperson Robert Peluso presents co-owners Marie Cannizzaro and Patti Caravaggio with a plaque celebrating 25 years in Parsippany. Frank Cahill, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee Vice Chairperson and Mayor Michael Soriano looks on.

PARSIPPANY — For more than 25 years, A’Viance Hair & Nail Studio has been serving the Parsippany community. While so much has changed around their location on North Beverwyck Road, they’ve been a staple family-owned business for almost three decades.

A’Viance Hair & Nail Studio has been serving the Parsippany community for 25 years and recently celebrated with a ribbon-cutting re-grand opening.

“We were the second business to move into the mall here, and we’ve been here ever since,” says co-owner Marie Cannizzaro. “We’ve been here almost as long as the building has existed.”

Some of the biggest changes and challenges they’ve faced have resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. Small and family-owned businesses have been impacted by the health & safety guidelines in the past many months, but A’Viance met the challenges and has worked for solutions to get them back to serving the community safely.

“It was devastating to us and very worrisome,” said Cannizzaro. “But we’re following the rules, and making sure we’re doing the right thing, not just for our employees, but for clients as well. Safety is the most important thing for us.”

Clients must wear a face mask, have their temperature taken, and sign a health form. A’Viance calls and serves clients in the studio one at a time, and sanitizes diligently in between each appointment.

Now, thanks to the new co-ownership with Patti Caravaggio, A’Viance is poised to remain a staple business in the community for years to come. Cannizzaro and Caravaggio have worked together for over 30 years, and the whole staff is eager to serve Parsippany.
“Come into the salon!” says Cannizzaro. “We’re a family salon. We welcome kids, guys, not just women. We’d just love to have you try us out if you haven’t already.”

A’Viance Hair & Nail Studio is located at 450 North Beverwyck Road. For an appointment, call them at (973) 335-3311

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Celebrates the Hindu Festival of Diwali Online

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — Amid the COVID-19 global pandemic, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Parsippany focused on bringing together the Hindu community through five days of virtual Diwali celebrations. During this period, the traditions celebrated present an opportunity to reflect and introspect on one’s personal, professional, and spiritual growth.

Diwali is celebrated every year on the first lunar phase of the moon when the moon provides no light and the world is enveloped in darkness. The ancient practice of lighting divos, or traditional lamps, during the days of Diwali, not only erases physical darkness but also symbolizes one’s commitment to remove darkness –in the form of anger, greed, arrogance, and resentment – from their life. The festival’s rich traditions and rituals marked by bright colors of Rangoli (ornate designs made of colored powder), the lamps, the elaborate offering of vegetarian food (Annakut) to God, all mark a renewal of the good within and the goodwill towards all around us. Diwali presents Hindus with an opportunity to reaffirm themselves with the rich values and traditions of the religion.

Many families would generally gather at the BAPS Mandir to celebrate this festival.  However, due to all of the health and safety concerns this year, the BAPS organization provided live, interactive programs throughout the holiday season to bring the community together while suggesting activities that each family can partake in and share with others online.  One such activity was the observation of New Year’s Day which occurs the day after Diwali. BAPS mandirs the world over celebrate this day by offering Annakut (Meaning of “Mountains of Food”)  to the sacred images within the shrines of the mandir.  The 100s of food items are generally made by followers of the faith in their homes and brought to the mandir.  This year, however, families were encouraged to make fresh vegetarian delicacies and offer them to the images that are kept at home, with the same spirit and to share pictures of this and other Diwali activities online.

Although no grand celebrations were held at the mandir this year, BAPS did offer limited viewings of the sacred images, during the Diwali season.  Due to the auspiciousness of the holiday, many Hindus come to view and pray before the images on these days.  As a part of its ongoing COVID-19 response efforts, the organization’s humanitarian arm – BAPS Charities – organized a Food Drive and requested all who come to the mandir to bring non-perishable food items to help those most affected by the pandemic.  Over 150 items were collected to be donated to a local food bank.

“My wife, Bijal Patel, and I have vivid memories of celebrating Diwali with great fanfare with my neighbors, family, and friends here at the local BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Parsippany for the last several years. This past year has been unprecedented! Diwali is no different. Despite the limitations that the pandemic poses in gathering with extended family and the larger community to celebrate, my family made the most of the virtual arrangements and programs that the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Parsippany made. From a Diwali at Home preparation kit to virtual facilitation of traditional Diwali rituals, my family and I felt like we were part of something a lot larger- right from the comfort of our homes! When I settled in New Jersey and started my family, I’ve always wanted to maintain the traditions of my culture but found it difficult to replicate many of those experiences for my children. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir’s virtual Diwali celebrations helped us to keep that tradition alive- even this year. My kids especially enjoyed the Kids Diwali virtual program, which emphasized the importance of making good decisions and being a good person,” said Ronak Patel.

Morris County Sheriff James Gannon

About BAPS
The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a worldwide spiritual and humanitarian organization that is dedicated to community service, peace, and harmony. Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families, and individuals. Through various spiritual and humanitarian activities, BAPS endeavors to develop better citizens of tomorrow with high esteem for their roots and culture. Its 3,300 international centers support these character-building activities. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is free of addictions as well as morally, ethically, and spiritually pure. For more details, please visit www.baps.org.

About Mahant Swami Maharaj
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth and current spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He has ordained a swami by Yogiji Maharaj in 1961 and named Sadhu Keshavjivandas. As he has appointed the head (Mahant) of the Mandir in Mumbai, he became known as Mahant Swami. His devout, humble, and service-focused life earned him the innermost blessings of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj travels throughout the world, inspiring people through his insightful spiritual discourses and disciplined conduct. His virtuous lifestyle and profound devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and gurus are ideals toward which devotees strive. Mahant Swami Maharaj became the guru and President of BAPS upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s passing in 2016.

About Pramukh Swami Maharaj
Pramukh Swami Maharaj was the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Under his leadership, BAPS grew into an international spiritual and humanitarian organization with over 3,300 centers worldwide. He dedicated his life to the well-being of others, traveling throughout the world to foster love, peace, harmony, righteousness, faith in God, and service to humanity. With genuine care and compassion, he reached out to all members of society irrespective of class, color, or age. Recognized and respected as one of India’s greatest spiritual teachers, he lived by and promoted the principle: “In the joy of others, lies our own.”

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, December 2020

Business Owners March Against Governor Murphy’s Executive Orders

By
Frank L. Cahill
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The march was lead by Heather Darling, Esq. spokesperson for the group "We The People NJ"

MORRIS COUNTY — A new group took to the streets on Sunday in protest of continued and additional restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic. Over 100 members of a newly formed group, We The People NJ, opposed to what it calls an unconstitutional coronavirus crackdown held their first event on Sunday, with a mile-long march and demonstration starting at Morris Township Municipal Complex and ending at Morristown Town Hall.

Over 100 members of a newly formed group, We The People NJ, opposed to what it calls an unconstitutional coronavirus

According to a spokesperson for the group, the march is planned to get the attention of Governor Phil Murphy and express to him that NJ residents can’t withstand another lockdown.  The group stands for personal choice in regard to personal protection which includes the constitutional rights of going to work and to school.  They also acknowledge and respect the constitutional rights of some people who wish to stay home and protect themselves from health risks  The intention of the group is to demand that everyone’s personal choice is protected.

The group gathered at Morris Township Municipal Complex at 10:00 a.m. and marched west on Route 124 escorted by police for a rally at Morristown Town Hall. A series of speakers blasted measures imposed by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy intended to curb the spread of the surging virus, which Sunday’s opponents said violated constitutional rights and hurt businesses, sometimes needlessly.

Heather Darling, Esq., Representative Attorney for We the People NJ, speaks to the participants at Morristown Municipal Building, who are fed up with executive orders from Gov. Phil Murphy restricting activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The message is that we want to take responsibility for ourselves at this point,” said Heather Darling, a small business owner in Morris County and spokesperson for the group. “They feel that personal responsibility has been usurped far too long by these executive orders that have continued for the better part of a year for this point.” In November alone, executive orders from Murphy have restricted bars and restaurants from serving customers indoors past 10:00 p.m., permitted counties and towns to set an 8:00 p.m. curfew on nonessential businesses, and reduced indoor and outdoor gathering limits. Permitted indoor capacity for dining establishments, meanwhile, remains at 25%. “If I have a business and I want to open my business, and you want to come to my business, why should we not be able to transact?” Darling said.

Darling said the group suggests there’s no need for an additional lockdown in the face of surging COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations — instead, those most at risk can take the necessary precautions and it can be business as normal for healthy individuals.

Cain Pope

“Shutting down would be the most irresponsible thing for all of us,” Cain Pope, 28, of Roxbury, a manager at the local Fuddruckers and a We the People NJ volunteer, told the crowd.

“Are we going to let him do this to us?” Pope said to the crowd. “No!” the crowd roared back at him.”

Jacob Almakias

Roxbury High School senior headed for the U.S. Army, 18-year-old Jacob Almakias, told the crowd that “Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness is not a partisan issue.”

Ray Tahan

Ray Tahan, 72, Roxbury, told the crowd that a restaurant in his community was ordered shut down because one of its employees had tested positive for the coronavirus. “The employee who tested positive was not even sick,” Tahan told the crowd, which let out a collective groan. “This is what Governor Murphy is doing.”

Murphy again extended the state of emergency he first imposed in March, under which he has issued a series of executive orders limiting hours of business and other behavior in the name of health and safety. And it’s been six days since Murphy announced that maximums for gatherings of people were being reduced to 10 indoors, from 25, and 150 for outside gatherings, down from 500. (Click here for a related article).

NBC News Correspondent Phil Lipof interviews Heather Darling

Click here to view the Channel 4 News video.

 

Breaking News: Stabbing on Troy Road; One Dead; One In Custody

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Photo by Kevin Jarvis

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Focus is at the scene of 59 Troy Road. Initial reports indicate one man is dead and a suspect was transported to Morristown Medical Center after an apparent knife fight Sunday morning.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police responded to the homicide call at 9:02 a.m.

Daily Record is reporting, “the victim, Antonio DeJesus, 34, was found at the scene stabbed several times in the head. The unidentified alleged perpetrator also was found at the scene with stab wounds. He was taken into custody by county law-enforcement and Parsippany Police.” The cause and manner of death are pending and the investigation remains open and ongoing.

The investigation is being conducted by members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office – Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit.

This appears to be an isolated incident and there does not appear to be an ongoing risk to the public.

Investigators from the Morris County Prosecutors’ Office, the Morris County Sheriff’s Department, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department are on the scene investigating.

Hoboken Police Sergeant Peter Zanin Passed; Parsippany Resident

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Sergeant Peter Zanin, (pictured far right). Photo by Hoboken Police Department

PARSIPPANY — Hoboken Police Department is reporting that Sergeant Peter Zanin, 46,(pictured far right), passed away at 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 21 at St. Clare’s Hospital, Denville.

He leaves behind his wife Samantha, three young children, his mother Arlene, brother Kevin, and brother-in-law Ryan.

Zanin is a Parsippany resident.

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla said the city will fly flags at half-staff for the week, starting Saturday.

“On behalf of the city of Hoboken, I send my deepest condolences to the Zanin family and the entire Hoboken Police Department for the tragic loss of Sgt. Peter Zanin,” he wrote. “I am fortunate for having the privilege of getting to know Sgt. Zanin. He was not a man of pretense, but rather a man who exhibited quiet grace and humility. He was a kind human and a gentle soul. Sgt. Zanin wore his uniform proudly and served our community with honor. His loss is a tremendous loss for the city. May his soul rest in peace.”

The Hoboken Police Department is in mourning. Rest in Peace Sergeant Peter Zanin. End of watch: November 21, 2020. They begin to prepare for a send-off that Samantha and your three children, your Mom Arlene, brother Kevin, and brother in law Ryan will all be proud of. Thank you for your service!

Overturned Truck Spills Diesel Fuel During Morning Accident

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Overturn truck on the exit ramp of Route 287 at Parsippany Road. Photo by James Tammen

PARSIPPANY — A tanker truck owned by John Duffy Energy Services overturned on Route 287 Southbound at Exit 40A (Parsippany Road) at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 22.

Reports from the scene said approximately 100 gallons leaked so far going into the storm drain and onto the roadway.  Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department 5 Hazmat team was on the scene.

There is one patient with a shoulder injury.

Overturned tanker owned by John Duffy Energy Services. Photo by Kevin Jarvis

Murphy Signs Executive Order Extending Public Health Emergency

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Governor Phil Murphy. Photo by Rich Hundley, Trentonian

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 200. 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, September 25, and October 24. Under the Emergency Health Powers Act, a declared public health emergency expires after 30 days unless renewed.

“Despite the hope that is on the horizon, the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over,” said Governor Murphy.“We continue to utilize all resources available and will need the ability to do so as we battle this virus through the second wave that has enveloped our nation and our state.”

Executive Order No. 200 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.

Click here to view the full text of Executive Order No. 200.

First Night Morris County Ushers in 2021 with Live and Virtual Shows

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — First Night Morris County 2021 continues its 29-year tradition of ringing in the new year with a magnificent family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration.

First Night logoThanks to some creative viewing adjustments for the pandemic, this year’s lineup will showcase 100 artists in 40 performances in dance, theatre/comedy, music — rock, jazz, blues, and classical — visual arts, world cultures, children’s programs, a film festival and so much more. A dazzling Light Up The Night Virtual Show at 9:15 p.m. and midnight countdown will welcome in the New Year.  Shows are presented in live, streamed, and on-demand formats.

Three levels of First Night Morris County admission offer different combinations of access, as well as a Friday Night Film Festival. For more information, visit First Night Morris County. Tickets run $10-$30 each through DecEMBER 21.

Some of the top performers include:

First Night Morris County Ushers in 2021 with Live and Virtual ShowsChampion Irish Fiddler Brian Conway and guitarist/singer John Walsh (streaming, on-demand).  Widely considered one of the best Irish fiddlers of any style, Conway is a leading exponent of the tastefully ornamented Sligo fiddling style made famous by the late Michael Coleman. Irish-American guitarist, singer, and producer John Walsh joins Conway in a performance for First Night Morris County.

Jason Hudy’s Mesmerizing Magic (streaming, on-demand).  Magician Jason Hudy delivers mystery, intrigue, and comedy in every cutting edge show, as he draws you into the intricate world of illusion.

Comedian Joe Larson (live). Joe will tickle your funny bone and have you smiling all night. His popular blog, “Man with A Baby,” is read and enjoyed by many, and online sketch comedy pieces with “Grandma’s Favorite” are a YouTube favorite.

First Night performers

Award-winning harpsichord virtuoso Andrew Rosenblum (streaming, on demand).  Noted for his “…beautiful shaping of phrases, his sense of color and inflection, his incisive rhythmic impulse, and his fabulous technique…,” Rosenblum has performed at Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall, The Kennedy Center among others.

Frank Vignola Hot Jazz Trio with bassist/vocalist Nicki Parrott (streaming, on-demand). Frank Vignola is one of the top guitarists in the world according to the legendary Les Paul. With his virtuosity, extraordinary versatility, sly humor and incomparable musicianship, he shares the stage with his long-term touring partner, dynamic rhythm guitarist Vinny Raniolo and Nikki Parrott’s irresistible voice.

The British Invasion Years Band (streaming, on-demand).  No time machine is needed as this popular First Night band takes you back to the 1960s. Classic rock lovers will thrill by this group’s note-perfect performances of music from The Beatles to The Beach Boys!

To purchase tickets click here.

AG Grewal Announces Settlement with Apple for Misleading Consumers about iPhone Problems

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced that New Jersey will receive over $3 million as part of a $113 multistate settlement with Apple, Inc., that resolves a multi-state investigation into allegations that Apple misrepresented and concealed from consumers information about performance problems with millions of iPhones.

The investigation focused on whether Apple misrepresented and concealed information about unexpected power-offs (UPOs), battery health and performance issues, and software upgrades that slowed down or “throttled” the device’s performance.

The State filed its complaint and a consent judgment resolving the matter in Superior Court in Mercer County. The complaint alleges that Apple’s misrepresentations and concealment of battery issues and its throttling of iPhones’ performance violated state consumer protection laws.

According to the complaint, Apple pushed out software “fixes” that intentionally throttled the performance of the iPhone Series 6, 7, and SE (Special Edition) devices in an effort to quietly resolve the UPO issues. Because the unexplained slow-downs resulted in many consumers deciding that the only way to get improved performance was to purchase a newer-model iPhone from Apple, the alleged fraud resulted in more sales for Apple.

In New Jersey, nearly 3.5 million iPhones were affected by battery performance issues and undisclosed throttling.

“Apple’s treatment of iPhone consumers was rotten,” said Attorney General Grewal. “Not only did Apple try to conceal the iPhone’s shortcomings, but the company’s supposed fix for those defects created new problems that led consumers to shell out money for new iPhones. Today’s settlement should send a clear message that we will never tolerate such abuse of New Jersey consumers.”

“This settlement resolves an investigation into corporate conduct that is deeply concerning on multiple levels,” said Division of Consumer Affairs Director Paul R. Rodríguez. “First, we allege that Apple failed to disclose a product defect. Then that it provided consumers what they claimed was a software ‘fix’ that actually limited the performance of their phones. Finally, that they delayed informing consumers until well after many had already purchased new phones to replace ones they believed must be obsolete. This settlement is not just about getting Apple to pay for its alleged duplicity, but just as importantly requires the company to abide by a variety of terms designed to ensure greater transparency moving forward.”

In addition to the monetary payment, today’s settlement contains a variety of injunctive terms designed to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Those terms require that Apple will:

  • Maintain an easily accessible and prominent web page that provides clear and conspicuous information to consumers about lithium-ion batteries, unexpected shutdowns, maximizing battery health, and other issues related to iPhone performance;
  • Notify consumers in a clear and conspicuous manner if a future iOS update materially changes the performance of an iPhone when downloaded and installed, with such notification to be contained in the installation notes for the update;
  • Provide information to consumers in the iPhone user interface (e.g., Settings>Battery>Battery Health) about the battery, such as the battery’s maximum capacity and information about its peak performance capability, as well as notification of an option to service the battery once its performance has become significantly degraded.

In addition, Apple will implement procedures to ensure its consumer-facing personnel and Apple-authorized retailers are sufficiently familiar with the required new web page content and iPhone user interface information, communicate that information to consumers wherever relevant, and refer consumers to the web page or interface when appropriate.

The State’s investigation found that, by at least October 2016, Apple was aware that its customers were experiencing UPOs as a result of aging iPhone batteries that could no longer deliver sufficient power to the devices at certain times, particularly during high-performance tasks.

Apple did not disclose the UPO issues, however, nor did it allow consumers to replace their iPhone batteries — even at a full, out-of-warranty cost — unless the batteries failed Apple’s own diagnostic tests, which did not account for the very issue that was causing the UPOs.

Instead, Apple implemented the iOS software update that caused throttling.

The update essentially prevented the iPhones from ever reaching performance levels that would require too much power from their batteries.

Throughout 2017, Apple continued to sell tens of millions of iPhones in the U.S. with known throttling issues, but never advised consumers. Eventually, consumers discovered the problem for themselves and, amidst public outcry, Apple apologized for the situation in December 2017.

Apple briefly reduced the price on out-of-warranty replacement batteries for affected iPhones and also released a new iOS update in March 2018. The new update allowed consumers, for the first time, to disable the throttling mechanism, and to have more visibility into the health of their iPhone’s battery. Under the settlement, Apple admits to no violations of the law.

In addition to the settlement with 34 states announced today, Apple also recently entered into a proposed settlement of class action litigation related to the same conduct. Under that proposed settlement, Apple will pay out up to $500 million in consumer restitution.

Deputy Attorney General Monisha A. Kumar of the Consumer Fraud Prosecution Section in the Division of Law’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group handled the matter on behalf of the State.

The mission of the Division of Consumer Affairs, within the Department of Law and Public Safety, is to protect the public from fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, and professional misconduct in the sale of goods and services in New Jersey through education, advocacy, regulation, and enforcement. The Division pursues its mission through its 51 professional and occupational boards that oversee 720,000 licensees in the state, its Regulated Business section that oversees 60,000 NJ registered businesses, as well as its Office of Consumer Protection, Bureau of Securities, Charities Registration Section, Office of Weights and Measures, and Legalized Games of Chance section.

Morris County Launches New Public Testing as COVID-19 Rate Spikes Statewide

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Freeholders announced they will launch at-home and mobile COVID-19 testing programs for Morris County residents and workers within the next week, as the number of new cases in the county continues to increase in correlation with a spike in the virus statewide.

“Our task force saw weeks ago that our cases were starting to increase, and we asked our Department of Law and Public Safety to begin preparing a plan for new testing in the event a second wave of the pandemic. It appears we are there,” said Freeholder Director Deborah Smith, referring to the Morris County COVID-19 Recovery Task Force formed to develop strategies to assist businesses and communities overcome pandemic impacts.

Graphic shows rising cases of reported COVID-19

The purpose of the expanded testing is to:

  • Identify Asymptomatic Individuals
  • Increase Test Availability for Symptomatic Individuals
  • Detect Clusters or Outbreaks
  • Provide Trending Data for Proactive Measures

The at-home testing will be the first phase, but Morris County is not ready to go live with it.

Freeholder Smith

Freeholder Director Deborah Smith

The testing will involve going to the Morris County website and accessing a portal, but the county still is in the process of developing the online portal. Please do not call the county or your municipal officials at this point. Once the portal is active, announcements will be made and further information will be shared with the public, media, and municipal officials.

“Once the at-home testing is up and running we will begin mobile testing. Our hope is within the next week or two we will have everything ready. The goal is that there will be no out-of-pocket costs to Morris County residents for this testing,” said Scott DiGiralomo, Director of Morris County’s Department of Law and Public Safety, who briefed municipal leaders in a phone conference yesterday.

“The costs will be covered by individual insurance plans, federal aid, and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding we were able to secure in August,” said Freeholder Douglas Cabana, the board liaison to Law and Public Safety. “The federal money we received will reimburse Morris County for the response efforts we launched with our own funding at the start of the pandemic, including the drive-through testing station we set up at the County College of Morris. The remaining dollars should help us continue testing throughout the year.”

The drive-through testing facility will not be reactivated at this time.

The online portal for at-home testing will enable individuals to determine whether to order a nasal or a saliva test and then begin the process of scheduling at-home delivery of testing kits.  Individuals will be required to provide their insurance information, Medicare or Medicaid data, or indicate that they are uninsured. However, no one will be billed for accessing the tests. The other test, provided by Vault Health, is a saliva test developed by Rutgers University. It too will be shipped to an individual’s home overnight. There is no age restriction, but guardians and parents must obtain the sample while participating in a tele-visit by computer or phone with an advisor at Vault. The advisor will guide participants on how to conduct the test and return it through the mail. The nasal swab, which is restricted to individuals who are age 18 and older, is one already available to the public through LabCorp, and it is known as their Pixel test. 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. Results generally are available within 48 hours of receipt by the testing company.

At this time, participants are only allowed two (2) tests per month. Anyone who tests positive will be directed to contact his or her healthcare provider and will receive a call from a contact tracer.

Mobile Testing:

Morris County will deploy mobile testing units in cooperation with local health authorities, particularly in areas where outbreaks are being detected or suspected. Vulnerable populations, including people without healthcare, in Dover and Morristown, will be among the first targeted for testing in cooperation with Zufall Health Center.

Bobst Takes Headquarters Space on Waterview Boulevard

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
10 Waterview Boulevard

PARSIPPANY — Avison Young arranged an 11-year, 33,910-square-foot North American headquarters lease for Bobst on the first floor of 10 Waterview Boulevard. The company relocated from its previous site in Roseland.

An Avison Young team lead by managing director Jeff Heller and SVP Steven Geltzeiler represented owner Waterview Investors LLC in the transaction. Bobst was represented by Steven Pavon, managing member of CohnReznick Real Estate.

Bobst is one of the world’s leading suppliers of substrate processing, printing, and converting equipment. The company was founded in 1890 and has a presence in over 50 countries.

“Waterview Investors completed a number of significant building improvements that were key in securing Bobst’s relocation to the building, including a new roof, a best-of-class tenant conference center, and extensive lobby upgrades,” said Heller.

Geltzeiler added, “10 Waterview Blvd. continues to generate remarkable interest for a variety of businesses in the Northern New Jersey region.”

Celebrate Thanksgiving Virtually with the Clergy Council

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0

PARSIPPANY — Morris County All Faiths and Families will celebrate a virtual Thanksgiving Community Gathering Sunday, November 22 at 1:00 p.m. on Zoom.

All residents of all faiths or – no faiths – can come together, share song, gratitude, and blessings. This community gathering will be live zoomed, not streamed.

All welcome but please RSVP to PJorlett@adathshalom.net for Password and Zoom Link.

For more info email Rabbi Deb Smith.

Sponsored by Yad B’Yad Interfaith Programs, the Parsippany Clergy Association, and the Morris County Human Relations Commission 

Lake Hiawatha Library receives $2,999,530 Funding from Library Construction Bond Act

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0
Lake Hiawatha Library, currently located at 68 Nokomis Avenue

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed A4942, which authorizes nearly $87.5 million to be distributed to proposed projects for the first round of funding from the Library Construction Bond Act. This funding will provide crucial improvements to New Jersey public libraries, including ADA compliance upgrades for disabled residents, HVAC improvements, and projects to improve public access to information and modernize community space, including procuring new technology. This initial grant round will also fund ten new library buildings. The second round of awards is planned for the first quarter of 2021.

“Our public libraries serve as community bedrocks providing resources and information to thousands of New Jerseyans,” said Governor Murphy. “With today’s bill signing, libraries will receive critical funding to address accessibility issues for our disability community and provide necessary safety improvements for adequate ventilation systems, as well as upgrading technology that will help shrink the digital divide in communities across the state.”

The following projects will receive the first round of funding:

  • $379,960 to the Atlantic City Free Public Library in Atlantic City, Atlantic County;
  • $322,091 to the Atlantic County Hammonton Branch Library in Hammonton, Atlantic County;
  • $175,000 to the Avon Public Library in Avon-By-The-Sea Borough, Monmouth County;
  • $1,000,000 to the Free Public Library and Cultural Center of Bayonne in Bayonne, Hudson County;
  • $37,500 to the Bernardsville Public Library in Bernardsville Borough, Somerset County;
  • $3,447,081 to the Cape May County Library at Historic Franklin Street School in Cape May, Cape May County;
  • $2,329,500 to the Cranbury Public Library in Cranbury Township, Middlesex County;
  • $524,142 to the Cumberland County Library in Bridgeton, Cumberland County;
  • $1,200,000 to the Dover Free Public Library in Dover, Morris County;
  • $500,000 to the East Orange Public Library in East Orange, Essex County;
  • $3,497,500 to the Fanwood Memorial Library in Fanwood Borough, Union County;
  • $600,000 to the Franklin Township Public Library in Franklin Township, Gloucester County;
  • $1,314,000 to the Franklin Township Public Library, Southern Branch, in Franklin Park, Somerset County;
  • $889,000 to the Freehold Public Library in Freehold Borough, Monmouth County;
  • $130,404 to the Garfield Public Library in Garfield, Bergen County;
  • $980,837 to the Hunterdon County Library in Flemington, Hunterdon County;
  • $5,000,000 to the Jersey City Public Library in Jersey City, Hudson County;
  • $1,525,475 to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Library in Wallington, Bergen County;
  • $90,000 to the Leonia Public Library in Leonia Borough, Bergen County;
  • $1,100,000 to the Lincoln Park Public Library in Lincoln Park Borough, Morris County;
  • $8,388,250 to the Maplewood Memorial Library in Maplewood Township, Essex County;
  • $3,262,260 to the Millville Public Library in Millville, Cumberland County;
  • $1,950,000 to the Monmouth County Library Headquarters in Manalapan, Monmouth County;
  • $248,640 to the Monroe Township Library in Monroe Township, Middlesex County;
  • $5,375,000 to the Montgomery Township Branch (Somerset County Library System) in Montgomery Township, Somerset County;
  • $507,000 to the Paramus Public Library in Paramus Borough, Bergen County;
  • $2,999,530 to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library, Lake Hiawatha Branch in Lake Hiawatha, Morris County;
  • $734,812 to the Paterson Danforth Memorial Library in Paterson, Passaic County;
  • $9,364,500 to the Pennsauken Free Public Library in Pennsauken Township, Camden County;
  • $150,000 to the Red Bank Public Library in Red Bank Borough, Monmouth County;
  • $292,750 to the Ringwood Public Library in Ringwood Borough, Passaic County;
  • $263,159 to the River Edge Public Library in River Edge Borough, Bergen County;
  • $5,500,000 to the Roselle Public Library in Roselle Borough, Union County;
  • $3,586,852 to the South Brunswick Public Library in South Brunswick Township, Middlesex County;
  • $3,080,875 to the Sussex County Library System (Dennis Memorial Library Branch) in Newton, Sussex County;
  • $139,705 to the Totowa Public Library in Totowa Borough, Passaic County;
  • $12,500,000 to the West New York Public Library in West New York, Hudson County; and
  • $3,098,217 to the West Orange Public Library in West Orange Township, Essex County.

“We are grateful to the Murphy administration and the state legislature for recognizing the strength of Parsippany’s library proposal,” said Mayor Michael Soriano. “This funding will help Parsippany continue the revitalization of North Beverwyck Road and establish a state-of-the-art library that will benefit every resident of Parsippany.”

“We are thrilled to learn that the Governor has signed a bill into legislation allowing for the initial grant round of LCBA funding to be distributed to the selected New Jersey libraries,” said Mary L. Chute, New Jersey State Librarian. “The pool of eligible applicants reflected many strong projects responding to compelling community needs. These 38 awards rate as the ‘best of the best’ by the review committee. We congratulate them and look forward to seeing their projects get underway.”

“Governor Murphy’s signing of the Library Construction Fund Bill is tremendous news for libraries and communities across the state of New Jersey,” said Dr. Merodie A. Hancock, President of Thomas Edison State University. “This bill allows for enhancing access and strengthening outreach at a time when libraries are needed more than ever.”

“I am grateful to see this grant funding finally being dispersed. Libraries are the cornerstones of our communities and these awards will go a long way towards improving their facilities and the services they offer,” said Senator James Beach. “Not only do our libraries have amazing collections of books, but they also provide educational programs and free access to internet-connected devices which many families around the state rely on. While often overlooked, their importance cannot be overstated.”

“Our public libraries offer so much to our communities and enrich the lives of countless individuals who utilize their many services,” said Senator Linda Greenstein. “This grant funding is going to go a long way and I am elated knowing this will make an impact in the lives of those who not only frequent public libraries but depend on them for what they have to offer.”

“Public libraries serve as valuable community centers that everyone should have access to, but many facilities are in need of facelifts and safety and accessibility upgrades,” said Senator Kip Bateman. “I appreciate the Governor’s prompt action signing this bill in the same week it cleared the Legislature. The availability of these grants is good news for public libraries and the residents who utilize them.”

“It wasn’t long ago that libraries were the only place you could find answers to any question you could imagine,” said Assemblyman Louis Greenwald. “With a variety of enrichment classes, children’s programs, and access to high-speed internet, libraries have become community spaces for all to enjoy. Sadly, library funding has remained flat in recent years, leaving many with little resources to make improvements. These grants will go a long way in helping local libraries reach more people in their communities.”

“Libraries have something for everyone. For children, they open doors to the magical world of books and encourage a lifelong love of reading. For adults, they provide access to invaluable education, job training, and personal development resources,” said Assemblywoman Angelica Jimenez. “Above all, libraries help keep us connected. In these uncertain times, their role has never been more important.”

“During the pandemic, we’ve seen libraries across New Jersey find innovative ways to expand their reach, from curbside service to home delivery to Zoom presentations,” said Assemblywoman Mila Jasey. “It’s forward-thinking like this that makes libraries so vital to our communities. This support will help our public libraries keep growing and innovating.”

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Parsippany Focus is a digital news organization that provides news coverage of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1989 by Frank Cahill, who currently owns and operates the organization. Parsippany Focus covers local news, events, and community issues, and their content is primarily distributed through their website and social media channels. The organization has been serving as a trusted source of news and information for the Parsippany-Troy Hills community for over 30 years.

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