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Competing Groups of Protestors Converge on Christopher Columbus Statue

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Members of Sons of Italy, Knights of Columbus, East Hanover Italian American Club, Unico stand in front of the Christopher Columbus Statue at Parsippany Municipal Building

PARSIPPANY —  Parsippany’s Christopher Columbus Statue Teach-In Demonstration went as scheduled on Friday afternoon at the Parsippany Municipal Building.

A group of approximately 30 demonstrators sat peacefully on the lawn at Parsippany Municipal Building

It was a peaceful demonstration as anticipated. About 30 demonstrators attended and listened to about a half dozen as they read their narratives as to why the statue should be removed. The organizers maintained their dignity throughout.

There were over 125 counter-demonstrators, comprised of members of Sons of Italy, Knights of Columbus, East Hanover Italian American Club, Unico, and concerned citizens of Parsippany and surrounding communities, came together in a show of unity to send a clear and strong message of support for retaining this very important symbol of the Italian heritage. Also among the crowd was Former Mayor Frank Priore, Former Mayor James Barberio, Former Council President Dr. Louis Valori, Retired Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Michael Filippello, and Gabriel Pellaggi, with his father, Biagio, who created the monument. The monument was unveiled on October 12, 1992

 

Emily Cruz, a student at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, N.Y., and Parsippany resident started a petition to remove the Christopher Columbus Statue, which is located at Parsippany Municipal Building. The statue faces Route 46. As of Saturday morning, June 27, 1,743 people signed the petition.

Parsippany Resident, Robert Quinn, a graduate of Parsippany High School has started a petition to KEEP the Christopher Columbus Statue. As of Saturday morning, June 27, 2,729 people signed the petition.

“Due to BLM and other minority movements making way across the country, I felt that now was as good of a time as any to make a petition to remove the Columbus statue in Parsippany. We should not, in any way, celebrate or recognize his slaughter and enslavement of indigenous people. This is not someone that our town should be honoring with a statue,” said Cruz on change.org.

Sons of Italy of Morris County Chapter 2561 President Louis Amato, xx, and Patrick Minutillo standing in front of the Christopher Columbus Statue on Route 46 at Parsippany’s Municipal Building.

Parsippany resident Patrick Minutillo said “Our police department did a fantastic job of managing the event, traffic control, and crowd control, and there were no problems throughout. Great job PTHPD! A few friendly disagreements and that was it. It was great to see such a large, patriotic, enthusiastic, and energized crowd offering their time and support on behalf of this important issue.”

 

Council President Michael dePierro stated “Parsippany UNICO was an active Italian-American organization in Parsippany during the 1970’s, 1980’s and 1990’s. One of our many projects was to erect a statue of Christopher Columbus. The UNICO members viewed the explorer positively and with pride. Columbus’ voyage made the old and new worlds aware of each other for the first time, eventually leading to the new countries in the western hemisphere. Driven in large part by political correctness, activists and wannabe activists have challenged most of our history and those who were a part of that history. The wannabe critics of Christopher Columbus rely upon a warped and inaccurate rendition of Columbus. Their misguided effort has recently focused on removing Parsippany’s Statue.”

“When is it appropriate to purge statues and monuments that some people find offensive? Should every tribute to someone who was flawed be destroyed? Christopher Columbus was a man with many flaws … granted. But his journey changed the trajectory of our world. In any case, the Sons of Italy from many lodges; the Knights of Columbus; and many concerned citizens (some not even of Italian descent), got together today to tell the wannabes to leave our statue alone,” he continued.

Senator Joseph Pennachio said, “Our nation is facing an extremely difficult period and efforts are being made across the board to ensure we come out of this stronger, more unified, and more inclusive of people of all ages, colors, and origins. Instead of trying to erase and re-write history, we should focus on challenging ourselves to create a better history for ourselves and our future generations.”

“For better or worse, the past is permanent. It is our future that is a blank canvas that will be crafted through the shared vision of varied interests contributing common goals, priorities, and dreams. Recently a statue of Abraham Lincoln was defaced in Massachusetts. In England, a statue of Winston Churchill was damaged. In Washington D.C., a monument to the all-Black 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment was defaced. To add to these misguided attempts of historical revision is just wrong,” Pennachio continued.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka announced Friday that a statue of Christopher Columbus was removed Thursday night from Washington Park and that it will be kept in storage until the city decides what to do with it.

There will be a similar protest on Tuesday, June 30 at 4:30 p.m. at the Christopher Columbus monument in East Hanover.

Murphy Administration Announces Reopening Guidance for Schools

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy and Department of Education Commissioner Lamont O. Repollet today announced the release of “The Road Back: Restart and Recovery Plan for Education” to assist schools with reopening in the fall. The guidance announces that, absent a change in public health data, public schools will open for in-person instruction and operations in some capacity at the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year.

The guidance envisions schools operating within necessary standards to protect the health and safety of students and staff. The guidance includes minimum standards such as following certain social distancing practices in classrooms and face-covering measures for students and staff. The guidance also provides recommendations to assist districts in achieving these standards, such as implementing hybrid learning environments in which students receive both in-person and remote instruction.

Each district will be expected to develop, in collaboration with community stakeholders, a plan to reopen schools in the fall that best fits the district’s local needs. The guidance provides anticipated minimum standards regarding health and safety that districts should use as they plan for reopening. The guidance also provides additional considerations that may help districts as they develop their plans.

“This has been an unprecedented time for our students and educators, but we are pleased to announce that we anticipate the return to our classrooms in some capacity this fall,” said Governor Murphy. “The return to school will pose challenges, but we are confident that New Jersey’s school districts can move forward in a way that best serves the needs of their district while also achieving a safe environment for students and staff.”

“I understand this will be no easy feat,” Education Commissioner Lamont O. Repollet said of the return to school. “Knowing that the health of students and staff is our number one concern, our guide will begin to fill in the picture of what a safe education system will look like in the fall.”

Governor Murphy’s Executive Order 104 ordered all New Jersey schools to close starting March 18, 2020, due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. After the Department worked with school districts to ensure stability through remote instruction, food security for children where needed, and equity in education for students, the focus immediately turned toward planning for reopening.

The guidance relies upon the most up-to-date data and recommendations from the New Jersey Department of Health and was informed by input from school communities. The Department has been engaged in regular contact with educators and stakeholders and has conducted daily site visits, weekly stakeholder meetings, and discussions with a standing committee of nearly two dozen superintendents. Beyond this ongoing engagement, the NJDOE convened approximately 50 education and community organizations, met with over 300 superintendents, and surveyed nearly 300,000 parents/guardians to inform the development of the reopening plan.

“New Jersey educators and families did an amazing job over the past three months implementing remote learning, even with relatively little time for planning. That effort was nothing short of heroic,” said Commissioner Repollet. “However, too many parents feel that remote-only instruction isn’t working for their child, and too many children are falling behind. It is becoming abundantly clear that children need to return to a school environment in some capacity, and we need to do so safely. This is a matter of educational growth, and it’s a matter of equity.”

The guidance focuses on four key functional areas: conditions for learning, leadership and planning, policy and funding, and continuity of learning.

The guidance sets the minimum standards for returning to school and serves as a toolkit for schools to use as they develop their recovery plans – recognizing that flexibility is needed as each school will have unique needs and circumstances, and some efforts will need to be guided by local health officials. The guidance describes several health and safety standards to be prioritized in school reopening:

  • Social distancing: Schools and districts must allow for social distancing within the classroom. This can be achieved by ensuring students are seated at least six feet apart. If schools are not able to maintain this physical distance, additional modifications should be considered. These include physical barriers between desks and turning desks to face the same direction (rather than facing each other)or having students sit on only one side of a table and spaced apart.
  • Face coverings: School staff and visitors are required to wear face coverings unless doing so would inhibit the individual’s health or the individual is under two years of age. Students are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings and are required to do so when social distancing cannot be maintained unless doing so would inhibit the student’s health. It is necessary to acknowledge that enforcing the use of face coverings may be impractical for young children or certain individuals with disabilities.
  • Limited capacity: It is recommended that students and staff be seated at least six feet apart in class when practicable. When the weather allows, windows should be opened to allow for greater air circulation.
  • Cleaning/disinfecting: Procedures must be implemented by each school district for the sanitization of school buildings and school buses. Increased handwashing measures are also important for students and staff.

These provisions are informed by Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, which call for protecting staff and students who are at higher risk for severe illness, such as providing options for telework and virtual learning; providing reasonable accommodations for older adults (65 years and older) and individuals with serious underlying medical conditions; and, when possible, keeping early childhood students apart during naptime and avoiding close-group activities like reading circles.

Other provisions in the guidance include:

  • Cafeteria directors should consider staggering meal times to allow for social distancing; discontinuing self-serve or buffet lines; having students eat meals outside or in their classrooms, and requiring staff to disinfect eating areas between groups.
  • Recess should also be held in staggered shifts, with efforts to promote social distancing and hygiene protocols.
  • Cohorting: Schools may wish to identify small groups of students and keep them together (cohorting) to ensure that student and staff groupings are as static as possible, thereby limiting exposure to large groups of students.
  • School bus operators should encourage social distancing. CDC guidelines recommend seating on a school bus such that there is one student seated per row, skipping a row between each child, if possible. Barriers separating rows of bus seats may also be considered. If social distancing is not feasible, face coverings must be worn by students who are able to do so. Increased ventilation (i.e. opening windows) is also recommended in the guidelines.

Because reopening is dependent upon health data and informed by experts in the health field, districts will need to be prepared to pivot to remote instruction at any time during the 2020-2021 school year. The guidance stresses that each school district should be working to ensure every student has a device and internet connectivity available, and it identifies funding streams available to school districts to ensure students have access to technology.

Districts should strive to share preliminary scheduling plans with staff, families, and students at least four weeks before the start of the school year in order to allow families to plan child care and work arrangements.

Click here for a summary of the guidance.

Click here for the full guidance.

Murphy Signs Legislation to Limit Excessive Third-Party Delivery Service Fees

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Assemblywoman Aura Dunn

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation (S2437) which places limits on service fees charged to restaurants by third-party delivery applications and websites during a state of emergencies declared by the Governor in response to COVID-19. The legislation provides much-needed relief to restaurants across New Jersey that have faced excessive fees while being limited to takeout and delivery service.

“By following public health guidelines, restaurants across New Jersey have contributed to flattening the curve and to the enormous progress we have made against COVID-19,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Through this legislation, now law, dining establishments throughout our state will receive much-needed relief from excessive service fees if public health necessitates the return of dine-in restrictions.”

The legislation prohibits third-party food takeout and delivery service applications and websites from charging service fees greater than 20 percent of the cost of the individual order or greater than 10 percent of the cost of the individual order when the order is delivered by an employee of the restaurant or an independent contractor with whom the restaurant has contracted directly. The limits are in effect during a state of emergency and until the first day of the third month following any state of emergency declared by the Governor in response to COVID-19 that restricts restaurant dine-in service to less than 25% of the maximum capacity allowed by law.

Primary sponsors of this legislation include Senators Vin Gopal and Joseph Cryan and Assemblymembers Annette Quijano, Serena DiMaso, and Aura Dunn.

“Some of these so-called service fees for food delivery are just way out of line,” said Senator Joe Cryan. “Restaurants have been some of the hardest-hit businesses in the shutdown and they face an uphill struggle as we gradually reopen. For now, they are relying on takeout to try to keep their businesses alive. It is unconscionable to take advantage of this crisis by charging them with inflated fees for delivery service. We need to support local businesses and work together to get through these hard times.”

“During this crisis, many struggling restaurants have turned to third-party deliveries to make ends meet, but some bad actors have taken advantage of them with unaffordable fees,” said Senator Vin Gopal. “I’m proud to sponsor this new law, which will protect these restaurants as they work hard to feed our communities and families while weathering this pandemic.”

“Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, restaurants have been limited to offering takeout and delivery options to customers,” said Assemblywoman Annette Quijano. “As a result, customers have been turning to food takeout and delivery apps to simplify the process of ordering food from their favorite restaurant. It’s likely many don’t know that the restaurant they are trying to support is actually paying an enormous fee to the app they’re ordering from. There’s no reason for apps to be charging outlandish fees to restaurants during the middle of a global public health emergency. Apps can be a vital tool in helping restaurants stay in business, but that won’t be the case if they are charging unreasonable fees. It’s time we put a stop to this unfair practice and ensure restaurants will only be responsible for a fair fee per order.”

“It’s a margin killer for many of our Main Street businesses,” said Assemblywoman Serena DiMaso. “They’re keeping 32 percent of the order payment in a restaurant business where margins are maybe 15 or 20 percent.”

“Third-party services are no longer fringe experiments, but rather a mainstream piece of the restaurant business,” said Assemblywoman Aura Dunn. “For all their hard work to keep afloat, this cap helps those restaurants stay in business.”

Murphy Signs Executive Order Establishing Rules for Dining, Recreational Facilities, and Instruction at Gyms and Fitness Centers

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Governor Phil Murphy. Photo by Michael Mancuso, NJ.com)

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 157, which implements the reopenings announced earlier this week that will take effect on Thursday, July 2.

Specifically, the Order contains several requirements for indoor dining, which can resume on July 2 but will be limited to 25 percent capacity and patrons will be required to order and consume food or beverages while seated.

The Order also contains the baseline requirements for indoor recreational and entertainment businesses, which can open on July 2 at 25 percent capacity, with the exceptions of gyms and fitness centers, movie theaters, performing arts centers, other concert venues, and indoor amusement and water parks. Further, dance floors at any business must be closed or cordoned off. Gyms and fitness centers can, however, offer individualized indoor instruction by appointment only.

“As we enter into the latter phases of stage two of our restart, we ask New Jerseyans to continue to answer the call of personal responsibility that has gotten us this far,” said Governor Murphy. “We have been actively working up to this point for weeks and are confident that the health metrics we needed to see are in place.”

The requirements for retail businesses are restated in this Order for clarity, but these requirements are unchanged, other than a clarification that the 50 percent capacity limitation will not include the retail establishment’s employees. The Order comprehensively states the COVID-19-related requirements that apply to businesses in the retail, dining, and recreation sectors.

The indoor dining requirements include:

-Limit the number of patrons in indoor areas to 25 percent of the food or beverage establishment’s indoor capacity, excluding the food or beverage establishment’s employees;
-Ensure that tables, where individuals or groups are seated, are six feet apart in all directions from any other table or seat and that individual seats in any shared area that is not reserved for individual groups, such as an indoor bar area, are also six feet apart in all directions from any other table or seat;
-Require patrons to wear face coverings while inside the indoor premises of the food or beverage establishment, except when seated at their table or in their individual seat. This requirement does not apply if the patron has a medical reason for not wearing a face-covering or is a child under two years of age;
-Food or beverage establishments with table service may only allow patrons to place orders when seated, and only wait staff may bring food or beverages to seated patrons;
-Patrons may only consume food or beverages while seated (meaning they cannot walk around with their beverages, for example); and
-Abide by all other health and safety standards issued by the Commissioner of the Department of Health, including infection control practices and other sanitization protocols, consistent with her authority under the Emergency Health Powers Act.

The Department of Health issued an updated Executive Directive that incorporates the above requirements and contains comprehensive health and safety standards and protocols for food or beverage establishments, including both their outdoor and indoor areas.

The Executive Order describes the requirements for recreational and entertainment businesses that can open, which include libraries, museums, aquariums, and public and private social clubs.

These businesses must limit the capacity of their indoor premises to 25 percent and are held to many of the same requirements that are imposed on retail businesses (a full list of the requirements is in the Order). However, gyms and fitness centers, movie theaters, performing arts centers, other concert venues, and indoor amusement and water parks, must keep their indoor spaces closed, and dance floors at any business must be closed or cordoned off.

Gyms and fitness centers are, however, permitted to offer individualized indoor instruction by appointment only where an instructor is offering training to an individual, and the individual’s immediate family members, household members, caretakers, or romantic partners. If a gym or fitness center is offering multiple simultaneous instructions at the same facility, these instructions must take place in separate rooms or, if they take place in the same room, must be separated by a floor-to-ceiling barrier that complies with all fire code requirements.

Playgrounds are also permitted to open on July 2. Additionally, personal care services that would require the removal of a face covering, such as facials, can resume on July 2 as well, subject to otherwise applicable requirements issued by the Division of Consumer Affairs and the Department of Health.

In the coming days, the Department of Health will issue standards and protocols for both indoor pools and outdoor amusement and water parks. The Division of Gaming Enforcement will issue standards and protocols for casinos, which will be open on July 2 but will be subject to additional requirements.

For a copy of Executive Order No. 157, please click here.

For a copy of the Department of Health’s updated Executive Directive on outdoor and indoor dining, please click here.

Morris County Prosecutor and Detective Supervisor Join Virtual Teen “Table Talk” Event

By
Frank L. Cahill
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parsippany newspaper
Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Detective Supervisor Patrick LaGuerre of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Bias Crimes Unit joined a virtual teen “table talk” on June 26, 2020.

The Coping with Racism & Police Brutality discussion, organized by Morristown-based Calvary Baptist Church, was co-facilitated by Pastor Jerry M. Carter Jr., Ph.D., Senior Pastor, and Minister Sean Lewis.

Youth attendees were registered for the event by their parents. Overall, the virtual event drew 23 attendees of all ages. Members of the community engaged in candid and honest dialogue, some sharing the distrust and fear they are feeling towards law enforcement. Prosecutor Knapp and Detective Supervisor LaGuerre reinforced that the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office members are available to listen and strive to establish a rapport with all Morris County residents.

Detective Supervisor LaGuerre explained police officers enter into potentially dangerous situations every day, and that, unfortunately, they can encounter people with negative preconceived notions about the police. During the conversation, Prosecutor Knapp shared his own experiences growing up in Irvington, being introduced to law enforcement because his friends had fathers who were police officers.

Prosecutor Knapp and Detective Supervisor LaGuerre encouraged young people to reach out to their local police departments to get to know each other as neighbors.

Morris County law enforcement aims to build trust and connection with its younger citizens through programs such as “Safe Stop,” which educate students on best practices for interactions with police and during traffic stops. Detective Supervisor LaGuerre also hosts bias and bullying awareness presentations at Morris County schools, saying at the end of every presentation, there are students who reach out to him for guidance. Having served in Internal Affairs, Detective Supervisor LaGuerre explained that every citizen complaint against an officer is investigated.

Officers found to have committed serious offenses do not return to duty Detective Supervisor LaGuerre recounted the training and outreach programs held by the Bias Crimes Unit, including presentations at Morris County middle and high schools to educate students about bullying.

Prosecutor Knapp said “We are extremely fortunate to have been given this opportunity to listen to the concerns of our youth in this forum sponsored by the Cavalry Baptist Church. At this time of great unrest, we need to hear each other’s concerns, come together, and improve upon relations between the community and law enforcement. This evening’s program was an outstanding step in the right direction.”

Kislak Sells Colony Plaza For $4.4 Million

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — The Kislak Company announced the $4,375,000 sale of Colony Plaza, a 40,000-square-foot mixed-use office and retail property located at 1180-1220 Route 46.

Thomas Scatuorchio

Kislak marketed the property on an exclusive basis on behalf of the seller, a private investor, with sales associate Tom Scatuorchio and senior vice president Matt Weilheimer handling the assignment. Mr. Scatuorchio also procured the purchaser, another private investor.

“Our close relationships with both the seller and purchaser enabled us to utilize creative solutions to overcome several complicated hurdles in order to ultimately close the transaction,” said Mr. Scatuorchio. Mr. Weilheimer added: “In my 25 years selling real estate, I have never seen so many complex challenges to closing a deal. It is a credit to the seller and purchaser and their professionalism that we were able to cross the finish line.”

Situated on a 3.2-acre site, the property consists of three existing buildings with a total of 40,000 square feet of office and retail space in a B-2 Zoning Highway Development District. A corner location with an AADT of 23,007, and easy access to the major highways of Routes 10 and 287, the property is surrounded by major national brand tenants such as Target, Michaels, LA Fitness, Shop Rite, Staples and Bed Bath & Beyond.

Morris County, one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, and home to over 30 Fortune 500 businesses with headquarters, offices or a major facility therein, is host to other major industries including finance, health services, insurance, pharmaceuticals, real estate, R&D, and technology.

Tom Scatuorchio joined Kislak in 2016 and specializes in the sale of multifamily and other investment properties in Morris and Essex counties. In 2017, he was awarded Kislak’s Rising Star award.

Matt Weilheimer

Matt Weilheimer joined Kislak in 1996 and is consistently among the firm’s leading salespeople. He specializes in the sale of apartment buildings, REO assets and other investment properties in New Jersey, New York, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. He has won numerous sales production awards including the firm’s 2010 and 2015 Production awards.

The Kislak Company, Inc., headquartered in Woodbridge, is a leading commercial real estate brokerage firm consistently recognized for its investment sales success. Established in 1906, Kislak’s market leadership position and longevity are due to its ability to offer clients a personalized, hands-on approach, coupled with the unrivaled expertise of its long-tenured team of professionals. Kislak’s prestigious client base includes individual investors and owners, partnerships, financial institutions, and REITs. The firm’s 35 professionals provide comprehensive market coverage throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.

Sherrill, Hern Introduce Legislation to Expand Telehealth Access for Medicare Recipients

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill

PARSIPPANY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) introduced the bipartisan Protect Telehealth Access Act to build on telehealth’s proven success during the COVID-19 pandemic by codifying Medicare reimbursements for telehealth services.

The Protect Telehealth Access Act removes the requirement that
(1) an individual receiving telehealth services must be located in a rural area or health professional shortage area, and
(2) an individual may only receive telehealth services at home in certain limited circumstances.

“We’ve seen the benefits of expanded telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of making sure access to care is available if patients have to stay at home,” said Rep. Sherrill. “That value won’t go away when the pandemic ends. I’m working with Representative Hern to ensure Medicare beneficiaries do not lose access to these important services.”

“Almost overnight, Americans became reliant on teleservices this spring,” said Rep. Hern. “For health services, telehealth provides a whole new range of care for rural communities and people who are unable to leave home. These services will be necessary long after coronavirus is neutralized, and it’s a bipartisan priority to ensure it will be available to those who need it. I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Rep. Sherrill and show what can happen when we come together for bipartisan victories.”

During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, CMS has issued an array of temporary regulatory waivers and new rules to equip the American healthcare system with the flexibility to respond to the pandemic. These actions have, among other things, increased access to telehealth in Medicare to ensure patients have access to physicians and other clinicians while staying safe at home.

Before COVID-19, Medicare beneficiaries could only receive coverage for telehealth visits under specific or unique circumstances — for example, if a patient living in a rural area far from a doctor’s office. However, federal policy changes during the COVID-19 pandemic have allowed Medicare recipients to increase access to necessary health services. The use of telehealth services during this crisis has further exhibited the pivotal role technology can play in improving health equity — for vulnerable populations, this type of access to health care can be a lifeline.

Mimi Letts Dedication at Veterans Park Gazebo

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Mayor Mimi Letts

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will be dedicating the Gazebo in Veteran’s Park to Mayor Marceil “Mimi” Letts on Tuesday, July 7 at 11:00 a.m.

The event is open to the public, but admission is that you must wear a mask. We hope you can join us for this important celebration.

For additional questions please call (973) 263-4262.

Former Mayor Mimi Letts

Letts, a Democrat, served three terms in office, twice winning re-election in what at the time was a solidly Republican town. As the leader of Morris County’s largest municipality, she also carried a loud voice in county and state politics.

Mimi Letts won a special election in 1994 to complete the fourth term of former Republican Mayor Frank Priore, who was convicted earlier that year of federal racketeering charges. He was first replaced by Township Council President William Clark, then by the council-appointed Joseph Weisberg. Letts did not run for a fourth term, leaving office in 2005.

Letts served on the township Planning Board, was president of the board of directors of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Senior Citizen Housing Corp., served on the Zoning Board of Adjustment, and was a member of the Parsippany Historical Society and the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. She was also a member of the New Jersey Highlands Council and Morris Tomorrow.

Letts continued her public service after she left office, remained active in politics, frequently attended meetings, and participated in charitable causes including the Kiwanis serving as President (2014-2015) and the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills.

Project Yellowstone at CCM Awarded Humanities COVID-19 Response Grant

By
Frank L. Cahill
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In 2019, the “Project Yellowstone” team at County College of Morris (CCM)  Dr. Michelle Iden, Professor Samantha Gigliotti, Dr. Maria Isaza, and Professor John Soltes traveled to Yellowstone National Park for an exploratory and education trip. “Project Yellowstone” recently received a New Jersey Council for the Humanities (NJCH) COVID-19 Response Grant. Photo Credit: Project Yellowstone at County College of Morris

MORRIS COUNTY — “Project Yellowstone,” an academic interdisciplinary program at County College of Morris (CCM) was one of 82 organizations statewide to receive a New Jersey Council for the Humanities (NJCH) COVID-19 Response grant.

The award-winning “Project Yellowstone” is part of a CCM Community and Civic Engagement initiative that offers high-impact, interdisciplinary programs.  “Project Yellowstone” brings together the academic disciplines of history, journalism, and biology to enhance student learning and community engagement. Programs offered on and off-campus focus on environmental history and conservation via the lens of the National Park system and has served over 500 students each year.

“This NJCH grant means ‘Project Yellowstone’ will be able to continue with programming that allows for student and community engagement of the public humanities at a critical time.” said Dr. Michelle Iden, History and Political Science Department and “Project Yellowstone” faculty member at CCM.

Three years ago Iden, Professor Samantha Gigliotti, biology and chemistry, Dr. Maria Isaza, biology and chemistry, and Professor John Soltes, communication, developed and implemented “Project Yellowstone.”  For the past two years, they have traveled to Yellowstone National Park to create greater awareness about conservation and protected lands and to share their experiences with CCM students and the public.  In October 2020, the team had scheduled an experience of a lifetime for six CCM students for an educational and exploratory trip to Yellowstone National Park. Due to COVID-19, the educational trip was indefinitely postponed. They are hoping to travel to the National Park in May 2021.

“This award is a testament to the quality of the program and the hard work of a very creative group of faculty.  Students are learning about the natural environment from several perspectives and coming to understand how different academic disciplines work together,” said John Marlin, vice president of Academic Affairs at CCM.

According to NJCH, CARES Act funding, allocated through the NEH, allowed NJCH to build a brand new COVID-19 Response Grant program. Funds were made available as operational and programmatic support for nonprofit organizations that provide humanities programming to public audiences and who are facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The NJCH grant will help “Project Yellowstone” programming scheduled for Fall Semester 2020 and Spring Semester 2021.  In September, a guided tour of the Great Swamp in Morristown will be given by Professor Samantha Gigliotti via a video-conferencing tool. A public book discussion of John Krakauer’s “Into the Wild” will occur in October. Dr. Shane Doyle, Native American Scholar and member of the Crow nation will give a public zoom presentation. Rounding out the Fall Semester programming will be a faculty and staff book discussion of “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.” Complete details of other “Project Yellowstone” programming will be forthcoming when adjustments are decided upon corresponding to the pandemic.

Table Of Hope Mobile Food Pantry Postponed until July 10

By
Frank L. Cahill
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"Table of Hope" a food pantry and a bus he renovated, outfitted with shelves

PARSIPPANY — Next week’s Mobile Food Delivery (Friday, July 3) will be postponed until Friday, July 10, as we observe the Fourth of July holiday.

If you are in immediate need of food assistance, please contact the Parsippany Food Pantry at (973) 263-7163, which is available to Parsippany residents.

Michael Sifonios carries a box of beef from the Table of Hope
Tables of food lined up waiting to serve the families in need
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano carrying boxes of food from the “Table of Hope” bus
Volunteers unloading food from the Table of Hope” bus
Table of Hope

Lawn Watering Restrictions In Effect Through September 30

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — Please be advised that the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills has a permanent lawn watering ordinance in place which restricts lawn watering from June 1st thru September 30. The limits on lawn watering are listed below.

Residential Lawn Watering

  • Properties having an EVEN number street address are only permitted to water on EVEN number days from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Residential properties having an ODD number street address are only permitted to water on ODD number days from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • No watering is permitted on Fridays or on the 31st day of the month.

Non-Residential Lawn Watering

  • Watering is permitted only on Mondays and Thursdays, from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • No watering is permitted on the 31st day of the month.

If you have any questions you can call the Parsippany Water Department at (973) 263-7099.

Parsippany Summer Concert Series Canceled

By
Frank L. Cahill
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The crowds watching the concert at Veterans Park. File Photo

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany regrets to inform you that the 2020 Summer Concert Series has been canceled due to the current COVID-19 public health emergency.

Fourth of July Fireworks and Concert Cancelled

By
Frank L. Cahill
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The fireworks over Parsippany Hills High School. File Photo

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany regrets to inform you that the 4th of July Concert and Fireworks Celebration has been canceled due to the current COVID-19 public health emergency.

Depending on the situation we may have a Township celebration in the Fall.

Parsippany Resident Michael Ilic Completes Intensive Research Project

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Michael Ilic

PARSIPPANY — Michael Ilic a member of the class of 2021 majoring in management engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), was a member of a student team that recently completed intense research projects titled Management Strategies for Harmful Algal Blooms in Worcester, Massachusetts. Michael is a graduate of Parsippany High School Class of 2017.

At WPI, all undergraduates are required to complete a research-driven, professional-level project that applies science and technology to address an important societal need or issue. Nearly 90% of students typically complete a project in collaboration with partners in communities across the country and around the world, through the university’s 50-plus project centers. Students usually travel to the project center for seven-week terms; this spring, however, due to the global coronavirus pandemic, they worked remotely, using video conferencing and other technology to complete their projects. A signature element of the innovative undergraduate experience at WPI, the project-based curriculum offers students the opportunity to apply their scientific and technical knowledge to develop thoughtful solutions to real problems that affect the quality of people’s lives and make a difference before they graduate.

“The WPI project-based curriculum brings students out of their comfort zones to apply their knowledge to solve real problems for people in communities around the globe,” said Professor Kent Rissmiller, interim dean of WPI’s Interdisciplinary and Global Studies Division. “Students work to solve open-ended problems with people of different backgrounds-all valuable perspectives for surviving and thriving in today’s global marketplace. They also learn the meaning and magic of teamwork; make a real and meaningful difference, and gain a competitive edge for any resume, or graduate or professional school application.”

About Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI, a global leader in project-based learning, is a distinctive, top-tier technological university founded in 1865 on the principle that students learn most effectively by applying the theory learned in the classroom to the practice of solving real-world problems. Recognized by the National Academy of Engineering with the 2016 Bernard M. Gordon Prize for Innovation in Engineering and Technology Education, WPI’s pioneering project-based curriculum engages undergraduates in solving important scientific, technological, and societal problems throughout their education and at more than 50 project centers around the world. WPI offers more than 50 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across 14 academic departments in science, engineering, technology, business, the social sciences, and the humanities and arts. Its faculty and students pursue groundbreaking research to meet ongoing challenges in health and biotechnology; robotics and the internet of things; advanced materials and manufacturing; cyber, data, and security systems; learning science; For more information click here.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Awards Scholarships

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Morgan Marron

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce awarded two scholarships to graduating seniors.

TYLER WYKA

Tyler Wyka, a 2020 graduate of Parsippany High School, is planning on attending George Washington or Hofstra University.

Tyler Wyka

During his high school years, he worked hard to earn “A” averages in his honors and AP courses while participating in as many extracurricular as he could, taking time with clubs to try and better the community. He was a 12 season athlete, Captain of the swim team, Drum major of the marching band, and Officer in Kiwanis Key Club. Tyler had unforgettable experiences and countless good memories that have taught me the value of hard work, being a leader, and being kind.

Tyler plans to study mechanical engineering and to find organizations that he can continue to grow his intrapersonal, and leadership skills, as well as add to his service background.

Tyler ranked 13 in the Class of 2020, had a GPA of 4.48, and an SAT score of 1360.

Tyler was a member of

  • National Honor Society – Inducted for leadership, and scholastic skills as well as his academic integrity, character, and community service
  • French Honor Society – (11th grade) Traveled to elementary schools to teach kids french through activities
  • Scholar of the Month- Awarded for academic achievement in history and electives my freshman and junior year
  • Attended Hugh O’ Brian Youth Leadership Seminar – A result of a recommendation from school staff, and the generosity of the PTA; strengthened leadership skills and performed community service.
  • Attended New Jersey Boys State – Elected to positions of Mayor and later County Supervisor. Worked with friends to win the Best County Award at the end of the week. Nominated for the Gordon Vreeland Award.
  • ShopRite STARS Leadership recipient – Recognized for excellence in leadership during the fall.
  • Junior Awards – Awarded leadership awards from both Clarkson University and Wells College.

Extracurriculars:

  • Competitive Marching Band (9th-12th) – Current Drum Major (11th & 12th), awarded Most Valuable Woodwind (2017), and Rookie of the Year (2016), Athlete of the week (2019), the band ranges from 70-90 members a year.
  • Swim Team (9th-12th) – Captain senior year, on varsity since freshman year.
  • Track and Field (9th-12th) – Javelin thrower, varsity junior year, 2nd place at Morris County Relays (2019).
  • Key Club (9th-12th) – Officer for two years, work with peers on community service projects and fundraisers for charity year-round, spoke at District Convention in 2018.
  • Jazz Ensemble (10th-12th) – Baritone saxophonist, developed improvisation skills.
  • Wind Ensemble/Concert Band (9th-12th) – Alto and baritone saxophonist, developed sight-reading skills.
  • Math Team (9th-12th) – Member of the math team as a result of being proficient in honors math all four years.
  • Orientation Ambassador (11th-12th) – Worked with other upperclassmen as role models to freshmen, helping them adjust to high school through activities.

Community Service/Employment:

      • Key Club – Over 100 cumulative hours from organizing and attending service events and fundraisers for organizations such as March of Dimes, The Thirst Project, and NJ Hunger
      • Saint Christopher’s Church – 50 hours of service (in high school) through performing the role of altar server for nine years total
      • Apprentice at Cutting Edge Glass – Spent the past 3 summers working at Cutting Edge Glass learning how to cut and install glass (shower doors, windows, mirrors) commercially and residentially, as well as how to use power tools

    MORGAN MARRON

Morgan Marron

Morgan Marron, a 2020 graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, is planning on attending TCNJ, Rider University, or Monmouth University and will be majoring in business.

At Parsippany Hills High School she was the president of two clubs, highly active and a board member of many others. She was an honor roll member, a dedicated person, and lastly a motivated student who consistently grew. She constantly showed growth and development over her four years and utilized her skills to help those around her.

She plans to continue her studies and further education and knowledge of business. After graduation, she plans to manage or run her own business that helps others. During college, she intends on continuing to help those around her and do her best to better not only my community but the world.

Since she was a sophomore and continuing through her senior year she volunteers with Morris County Relay for Life, an event that raises funds for cancer research, groundbreaking trials, and cancer support. She held fundraisers all year long in combination with hosting the event.  She was able to raise over $109,000 in her junior year when the event returned to Parsippany and was held at Parsippany Hills High School.

Chinese Christian Church to Start a “Meals of Blessings” Program

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — In an effort to serve our Parsippany community during this pandemic crisis, the Chinese Christian Church of New Jersey (CCCNJ) distributed free surgical masks at our local supermarkets in April. (Click here to read the story)

Recognizing that there are many families who visit the Parsippany Food Pantry for non-perishable food items, CCCNJ wanted to provide these families with hot meals at least once a week. Based on donations from their church members, they have purchased hot meals from local restaurants who could also use the additional business.

Every Wednesday starting July 1 they will be distributing hot meals at 6 pm at our church parking lot, located at 232 South Beverwyck Road, Parsippany.

While the meals are free, people must reserve their meals at least one day in advance by calling us at 973-335-0183 ext. 17 or by clicking here.

For any questions about this program, you can email  cccnjblessings@gmail.com.

LEGAL NOTICE

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Take notice that in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.6, application has been made to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Trenton, New Jersey, to receive title papers authorizing the sale for,
Make Tracker/Tahoe
Year 1988
VIN/Hull Identification Number BUJ02598A888

Objections, if any, should be made in writing, immediately in writing to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, P.O. Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey, 08666-0017.

Parsippany Focus June 24, 2020

Freeholder Board’s June 24 Virtual Meetings — Residents Invited to Attend

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Commissioner Deborah Smith, Chair of the Commissioners’ Budget Committee

MORRIS COUNTY — Due to the COVID-19 crisis and the need for social distancing and avoiding group gatherings, the Morris County Board of Freeholders will meet virtually on Wednesday, June 24. Residents are invited to “attend” the meeting.

“We continue to operate county government safely during this COVID-19 crisis, with all important functions of government being maintained,” said Freeholder Director Deborah Smith. “As we do this, we remain vigilant on social distancing, wearing face coverings, and limiting public gatherings. So, we invite you to join our county government meetings online for now and look forward to meeting you again in person in the future.”The Freeholder Board also will hold a work session at 4:30 p.m., followed by the 7:00 p.m. regular public meeting. Public comment is only allowed at the 7:00 p.m. public session.

Residents are invited to watch and/or listen at 4:30 p.m. and again at 7:00 p.m. At the later meeting, there will be a public comment period that will be announced by the Freeholder Director Deborah Smith.

WORK SESSION 4:30 p.m.

There is no public comment period during this meeting, but the public is invited to attend.

Video Access: WebEx attendee link by clicking here.

Audio Only Access: Phone number is 1-408-418-9388 and enter access code 129 817 5770

PUBLIC MEETING 7:00 p.m.

There will be a public comment period, which will be announced by the Freeholder Director during the meeting.

Video Access: WebEx attendee link by clicking here.

Audio Only Access: Phone number:  1-408-418-9388  Event number/Access code:  129 503 3546

Residents are asked to please mute their phones when they join they join the meeting, except if they are participating in the public comment period, and then to mute again after commenting. Also, please try to “line up” politely with other callers during the comment period. It would be much appreciated.

O’Donnell Former Law Partner, Elizabeth Valandingham, Charged in Scheme to Secure Legal Contracts in Exchange for Bribes

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Attorney Elizabeth Valandingham

MORRIS COUNTY — Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced charges against an attorney stemming from a major corruption probe by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) that previously led to five former public officials and political candidates in New Jersey being charged with taking bribes.

Elizabeth Valandingham, 47, Morristown, was served with complaint-summonses on Wednesday, June 17, charging her with second-degree false representation for government contracts and second-degree misconduct by a corporate official. Click here to view complaints.

Elizabeth Valandingham was listed as an attorney on O’Donnell McCord, PC website. In an article posted in New Jersey Globe, it was stated “The central figure in a sting operation that has led to bribery charges against five officials is in the process of closing his law firm, the New Jersey Globe has learned.” Also in New Jersey Globe, it was reported “The whistleblower told state and federal authorities that O’Donnell and his law partner, Elizabeth Anne Valandingham, have moved substantial amounts of money through relatives, employees, and friends who have made large campaign contributions. Valandingham’s sister, Vanessa Brown, and her brother-in-law, Christopher Brown, have contributed more than $107,000 to New Jersey candidates since 2010,  according to records filed with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission.” (Click here to read article).

The charges against Valandingham relate to alleged conduct between 2012 and 2017 at the law firm where she worked. One of her duties at the law firm was to prepare and submit annual proposals to various municipalities in order for the firm to garner public contracts for legal services.

Between 2012 and 2016, Valandingham submitted proposals to the Township of Bloomfield to provide legal services for the years 2013 through 2017. For each submission, Bloomfield required the firm, as a material part of its submission, to disclose any reportable political contributions the firm made to an enumerated list of candidates and party committees. For each year, Valandingham indicated the firm made no political contributions, and for each year, Bloomfield awarded the firm its contracts for legal services, valued in the aggregate at approximately $120,000. It is alleged, however, that in each year for which Valandingham indicated no reportable political contributions, the firm, in fact, made contributions.

It is alleged in the complaints that Valandingham, along with an unnamed co-conspirator, recruited friends and family members to act as straw donors— people who made political contributions and would subsequently be reimbursed in cash by the firm for those contributions. It is alleged that, in total, during the time that Valandingham indicated that the firm made no contributions, the firm made tens of thousands of dollars in straw contributions.

In 2016, Valandingham submitted a proposal for legal services to the Borough of Mount Arlington for the year 2017. Mount Arlington required that Valandingham certify that the firm made no reportable political contributions in the year preceding the award of the contract. She certified that no reportable contributions were made in 2016, and the borough awarded the firm a lucrative contract, earning the firm in excess of $470,000. It is alleged that, in fact, Valandingham made contributions through her straw donors to Mount Arlington officials in the amount of $7,500 in 2016.

The defendants initially charged in the OPIA investigation – former Jersey City School Board President Sudhan Thomas, former State Assemblyman and Bayonne mayoral candidate Jason O’Donnell, former Morris County Freeholder John Cesaro, former Mount Arlington Councilman John Windish, and former Morris County freeholder candidate Mary Dougherty – face pending charges of second-degree bribery in official and political matters for allegedly taking thousands of dollars in bribes from a cooperating witness in the form of campaign contributions.  In return, the defendants allegedly promised the cooperating witness – who is a tax attorney – that they would vote or use their official authority or influence to hire or continue to hire his law firm for lucrative government legal work.

Valandingham is charged in connection with conduct that is not directly related to the bribery allegations against the other five defendants.

The investigation is being conducted by the OPIA Corruption Bureau, under the leadership of OPIA Director Thomas Eicher. Deputy Attorneys General John A. Nicodemo, and Anthony Robinson are prosecuting the cases, under the supervision of Corruption Bureau Chief Peter Lee and Counsel to the Director Anthony Picione.

Second-degree crimes carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000.

The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Attorney General Grewal created the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability in September 2018 to combat corruption and strengthen public confidence in government institutions. In December 2019, the Attorney General issued a directive codifying OPIA and making it a permanent part of the Attorney General’s Office. That directive established the OPIA Corruption Bureau as the lead office within the Department of Law & Public Safety for the investigation and prosecution of state criminal violations involving corruption and abuse of public trust.

Summer Hours at Town Hall Begin

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Hall is located at 1001 Parsippany Boulevard

PARSIPPANY — Summer Office Hours are Monday to Thursday 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

These hours are effective now through Labor Day.

Employees take 30-minute lunches, so they’re available earlier in the morning and afternoon during the week to better assist residents.

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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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