PARSIPPANY — Brittany Diefenbach set up a GoFundMe account for Funeral Expenses for her dad, Edward Diefenbach.
Burger IM holds ribbon cutting grand opening celebration
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed BurgerIM to Parsippany on Saturday, January 18.
BurgerIM, a family-friendly burger-themed restaurant is located on 131 New Road.
“Welcome everyone at BurgerIM to Parsippany,” said Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano, along with Council President Michael dePierro, Vice President Loretta Gragnani, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Executive Board Member Frank Cahill, Board Members Nicolas Limanov, Ildiko Peluso and Ambassador David Warner helped cut the ribbon.
Robert Peluso, President of Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce said “We are filling retail vacancies and creating many job opportunities.”
Members of Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Advisory Committee, Chairman Robert Peluso, Vice Chairman Frank Cahill, and Council Liaison Loretta Gragnani along with Mayor Michael Soriano presented the owners, Touria and Mouhcine Ettamris and Mhned Rokni with a plaque congratulating BurgerIM on choosing Parsippany.
“We have a family here and we wanted to set an example. That if you have a dream, you can realize it if you work hard and put yourself out there. It was also important for us to pick this chain of restaurants because of the diversity and inclusiveness of the menu. We are happy to be in Parsippany and cater to all its communities,” said Touria.
Touria had previously worked in Colorado as a general manager for another restaurant before moving to New Jersey with their husband in 2012. On the other hand, Mouhcine also works as a mechanical engineer/scientist at Picatinny Arsenal in Rockaway Township. “BurgerIM is for everybody,” said Mouhcine. “It’s very exciting and very challenging to be here, but we are very thankful for their support.”
BurgerIM held a soft opening on October 24. BurgerIM offers its customers opportunities of various burger dishes. These dishes offer a variety of tastes for meat eaters, vegetarians and even vegans, including angus beef, Spanish beef, cowboy beef, Greek lamb, grilled/crispy chicken, Hawaiian salmon and falafel. Other menu choices include onions rings, fries, lettuce wraps, chicken wings, salads and delicious homemade milkshakes.
The Ettamris own BurgerIM, with a partner Mhned Rokni. The couple have two daughters, Jennah, 5, and Sarah, 4.
BurgerIM is a franchise in many states as far as Texas and California, including New York and Michigan. For more information click here. Other New Jersey locations include New Brunswick, Metuchen, Piscataway, Clark, Union City, Jersey City, Elmwood Park, Englewood and Bergenfield. Trenton, Cranford and Clifton are coming soon.
Samantha Smolinsky named Moravian College to Dean’s Honor List
PARSIPPANY — Samantha Smolinsky a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School Class of 2016 was named on Moravian College Dean’s Honor List.
Students who carry three or more course units during the fall or spring term and attain a GPA for the term of 3.50 or higher are placed on the Dean’s Honor List.
Moravian College is a private coeducational liberal arts college, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees.
For more than 275 years, the Moravian College degree has been based on a liberal arts curriculum where literature, history, science, cultural values, global issues, ethics, artistic expression, and the social sciences are infused with multidisciplinary perspectives. Visit Moravian.edu to learn more about how the Moravian College liberal arts curriculum prepares its students for life-long success.
Robotics Workshop and Community Outreach
PARSIPPANY — eBorg Robotics participates in the FIRST Tech Challenge competition (FTC). The goal of FTC is to ensure students develop STEM skills by designing/building robots to solve annual challenges, raising funds, and spearheading community outreach events. FIRST Robotics Competition teams are guided by principles of teamwork and gracious professionalism. eBorg Robotics, Team Lead, Neil Mathew says that “FTC provides a setting that deepens my understanding of pressing engineering issues and applications of technology, a truly incredible experience”.
On January 26, 2020, eBorg Robotics hosted a very successful Robotics Workshop and Community Outreach at the Parsippany Library from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Reaching out to many FIRST robotics teams in the area, including Cruise Control, Reboot, the Juggernauts, the Livingston Lancers, RedBots, SmartStarz, and Invincibots, they were able to host an exhibition style outreach with various booths and workshops for students from all over Parsippany to try driving and building robots for themselves. Notable guest included Mayor Soriano, Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Sargent, and Mr. Bill Scalise, the CEO of Chase Partitions. “Planning this event to synergize several teams that graciously participated to outreach as a combined force to the community, has been a truly exhilarating experience” says STEM connect lead Mihir Vemuri.
In the April of 2018 and 2019, eBorg Robotics competed in the World Championship for the FIRST Tech Challenge competition. Only approximately 150 out of over approximately 4,000 teams, selected through a rigorous process of qualifier, state, and regional competitions, were able to compete. This year eBorg Robotics won the inspire award and has been the Winning alliance captain at NJ Qualifier and advancing to State Championships. Team also won the Think award from PA qualifier and advancing to PA State Championships.
Team Coach Amit Joglekar describes the team saying, “What powers the human hands are not just one or two fingers, but it’s the synchronized effort of all the uniquely gifted yet diverse tactile members. I believe the same is true for the power behind our team.”
Lead Technical Writer Tej Shah said, “Through various setbacks and challenges, we as a team have grown significantly, developing stronger technical and communication skills. Solving tough challenges that have long eluded us is what makes it all worth it in the end!”
eBorg Robotics strives to inspire and encourage students to pursue STEM in our local and global communities. Throughout this season alone, eBorg Robotics was able to make great strides in spreading STEM, specifically to students that may not have many opportunities. Through various outreaches and events, the team has conducted sessions with underprivileged children and students on the autism spectrum with non-profit organizations like Greater Life Center and Autism Foundations.
STEM Connect Lead, Mihir Vemuri says “Invoking the curiosity and potential of Autistic minds and instilling the self confidence in them to move a Robot is an extremely gratifying wonder.” Vemuri is facilitating team discussions with International Engineers to help underprivileged with STEM technologies and pay it forward by mentoring students in Rural India to build a motorized arm.
To reach people both locally and globally, Social Media and Digital Graphics Leads Arnav Khanna and Anish Chidella have made significant strides in the marketing department. Arnav has worked on increasing social media presence while Anish has worked on developing material that represent the face of eBorg for the FIRST competitions and the eBorg Robotics team to share with the community. Khanna also works on technical presentations and raising funds from the community.
FLL Mentoring Lead Rahul Mehta facilitated the growth of FLL teams locally. His advice and dedication was helpful in leading the Jagarnauts, an FLL team, to the State Championships. Also, internationally, Rahul Mehta inspired students in Indian metros to pursue opportunities in STEM and taught building basic Robots.
As part of the community aspect of FIRST, eBorg Robotics has sought to effect meaningful impact both locally and globally. This past summer, Marketing Manager Tesia Thomas conducted a two week long robotics workshop at an all girls home in rural Tanzania for girls coming from either physically/emotionally abusive or neglecting households. After developing a specialized curriculum, eBorg Robotics donated 2 EV3 kits to these girls. Tesia Thomas spoke of the continuous impact of this outreach saying “The girls I worked with in Tanzania were some of the most brilliant and innately interested students I have ever worked with. With the right exposure, they are now excelling and continuing to work with the kits which goes to show just how far one push can go!”
More recently, on January 3, the eBorg Robotics team conducted a workshop with several students to promote awareness of increasing accessibility of STEM career paths for women. The event was a success and all of the students had fun participating in engineering design activities that are instrumental in engineering tasks: teamwork, ingenuity, and collaboration.
Software Testing Lead Emily Liew said, “Seeing the gears in their minds turning and their flames of curiosity sparking is truly an unforgettable experience and opportunity that was gratifying. Connecting with the students and children in our communities and giving back allows me to believe that we are truly making an impact in their lives and leaving the world a little bit brighter than it was before.”
The team hopes to continue inspiring more children in their local and global communities to learn about Robotics and pursue careers in STEM.
Accounting, tax and advisory firm Sax Relocates to LATITUDE
PARSIPPANY — A joint venture partnership between affiliates of Vision Real Estate Partners and Rubenstein Partners announced that Sax LLP, a top 100 multi-disciplinary accounting, tax and advisory firm, will be relocating this August from Clifton to a 39,810-square-foot office at LATITUDE. The 35-acre, two-building campus is a unique, hospitality-inspired workplace designed to foster a productive and dynamic work-life experience.
“LATITUDE is designed to transcend the traditional work routine,” said Sam Morreale, founder and managing partner of Vision Real Estate Partners. “At LATITUDE, you don’t just come to the office to work – you come here to share experiences across disciplines and companies to become the most successful version of yourself. We look forward to being a part of this exciting new chapter in the future of Sax LLP.”
Vision and Rubenstein are in the process of transforming the 700,000-square-foot campus into a next-generation, holistic workplace with a design theme that features collaborative spaces inspired by cities from across the U.S. — from New York City to Denver to Los Angeles.
“As our firm has succeeded and rapidly grown over the years, we’ve paid close attention to the ever-changing needs of our employees and clients. With that, we’ve worked to find an environment that brings our capabilities to the next level and strengthens us for the future,” said Joseph Damiano, managing partner at Sax LLP. “LATITUDE provides us with world-class services, amenities and an environment that will help us attract the next generation of our workforce. Combined with the building’s innovative design, one can’t help but feel energized working at LATITUDE.”
Rosemary Becchi Enters the District 11 Congressional Race
MORRIS COUNTY — Rosemary Becchi, the tax policy attorney and public advocate behind Jersey First, announced she will run for Congress in New Jersey’s 11th District.
Responding to calls from national, state and local Republican leaders, Rosemary will run to defeat Mikie Sherrill in the 11th District, helping Republicans field strong candidates throughout the state to oust Democrats who have put partisan impeachment ahead of New Jersey families.
“Mikie Sherrill has failed our families by standing with Nancy Pelosi’s partisan impeachment effort instead of fixing the problems that have made New Jersey simply unaffordable for average families, seniors and our young people — the future of our economy,” Rosemary said.
“Mikie Sherrill broke her promise to the people of New Jersey to be a moderate voice for them, and instead has voted with Nancy Pelosi 98% of the time, including votes to weaken our immigration laws and against our military and veterans,” Rosemary added.
Rosemary is running to protect senior citizens from being shortchanged by foolhardy efforts to expand Medicare to all and to protect the nation’s private sector jobs and businesses from misguided, economy-killing regulations proposed in radical plans to address climate change.
“Rosemary is a savvy, formidable candidate for Congress, the type of person I want to work with in the House of Representatives to make real changes for the people of New Jersey. She will defeat Mikie Sherrill in the 11th District and I will defeat Tom Malinowski in the 7th District to help our party take back the House and refocus Congress on the things that matter to New Jersey — keeping our economy strong, fixing our broken healthcare system and keeping our families secure,” said state Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean, Jr., the GOP candidate in the 7th District.
“The future is bright for Republicans in the state of New Jersey. I applaud Rosemary Becchi and her family for embracing the challenge of running for New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District. This news is welcome and exciting as Americans are hungry to change directions from partisanship to solutions,” said Republican House Leader Kevin McCarthy.
“In 2020, Republicans can take back the House, and the more candidates who are fighting for results for their constituents like Rosemary we have running, the better,” McCarthy added.
Rosemary has more than 25 years experience in public policy and the law, and she has built a reputation as a leading tax policy advocate. She is widely known for founding and leading Jersey First, a non-profit organization with the mission to educate and advocate for policy solutions to lower taxes, reduce government spending and help put the Garden State’s economy back on track. Rosemary began championing for lower taxes on families with her work on writing the 529 College Savings Law to help families afford college.
While Rosemary has achieved a highly successful professional career, her family has always been her priority. Rosemary and her husband, Scott, are often found at their three daughters’ hockey games, dance practice, or preparing for her weekly Sunday dinners with her sister, brother, niece and nephews.
New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District is a suburban district in northern New Jersey. The district includes portions of Essex, Morris, Passaic , and Sussex Counties; it is centered in Morris County. The district is one of the 10 most affluent congressional districts in the United States.
Essex County: Bloomfield (part; also 10th), Caldwell, Cedar Grove, Essex Fells, Fairfield, Livingston, Montclair (part; also 10th), North Caldwell, Nutley, Roseland, Verona, West Caldwell, West Orange (part; also 10th).
Morris County: Boonton Town, Boonton Township, Butler, Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, Denville, East Hanover, Florham Park, Hanover, Harding, Jefferson Township, Kinnelon, Lincoln Park, Madison, Mendham Borough, Mendham Township, Montville, Morris Plains, Morris Township, Morristown Town, Mountain Lakes, Parsippany-Troy Hills, Pequannock, Randolph Township, Riverdale, Rockaway Borough, Rockaway Township and Victory Gardens.
Passaic County: Bloomingdale, Little Falls, North Haledon, Pompton Lakes, Totowa, Wanaque, Wayne and Woodland Park.
Sussex County: Byram Township, Hopatcong, Ogdensburg, Sparta Township and Stanhope.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting this evening
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting will hold a regular meeting tonight, Tuesday, January 21 at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. The meeting will start at 7:00 p.m. and portions of the meeting is open for public comments.
Applebee’s raises $108,590 for Toys for Tots
PARSIPPANY — Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar presents a check for $108,590 to Ramon Perez, Staff Sergeant, United States Marine Corps, who accepted the donation on behalf of the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program, the charity which distributes toys to underprivileged children to provide a tangible sign of hope to as many economically disadvantaged children as possible at Christmas.
On December 7, 2019 Applebee’s locations throughout New Jersey, including Parsippany, hosted a Breakfast with Santa Fundraiser. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the Breakfast with Santa event were donated directly to the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. This event marked the 21 year Applebee’s locations owned and operated by Doherty Enterprises, which owns more than 96 Applebee’s restaurants across New Jersey, Long Island, Florida and Georgia have raised over $4.8 million for the Toys for Tots initiative to date, helping to spread holiday cheer to more than 230,000 deserving children. In total, Doherty Enterprises raised $226,235 for the Marina Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program from Breakfast with Santa events in New Jersey, Long Island, Florida and Georgia.
In New Jersey, Applebee’s is located in Parsippany, Brick, Bridgewater, Butler, Clark, Clifton, Edison, Flemington, Garfield, Hackensack, Hackettstown, Hillsborough, Howell, Jersey City, Jersey Gardens, Kearny, Lacey, Linden, Manahawkin, Manalapan, Manchester, Middletown, Milltown, Mt. Olive, Newark, Newton, North Bergen, Northvale, Ocean, Paramus, Phillipsburg, Piscataway, Rockaway, Tinton Falls, Totowa, Union, and Wall.
About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Established in 1985, Doherty Enterprises, Inc. is recognized as the 59th largest privately-held business in the New York Metro area by Crain’s Business, the 28th largest privately-held company in New Jersey byNJBIZ and the 15th largest franchisee in the United States by Restaurant Finance Monitor, and operates six restaurant concepts including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, Quaker Steak & Lube and two of its own concepts, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas. In 2018, Nation’s Restaurant News ranked Doherty Enterprises as the 77th largest Foodservice revenue company in the United States. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates over 150 restaurants in northern, southern and central New Jersey, on Long Island, as well as locations throughout Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island and sections of Florida and Georgia. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Communities We Serve” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.”
About Applebee’s®
As one of the world’s largest casual dining brands, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar serves as America’s kitchen table, offering guests a lively dining experience that combines simple, craveable American fare with classic drinks and local drafts. Applebee’s restaurants are owned and operated by entrepreneurs dedicated to more than serving great food, but also building up the communities that we call home. From raising money for local charities to hosting community fundraisers, Applebee’s is always Doin’ Good in the Neighborhood. As of March 31, 2019, there were 1,830 franchise and company-owned restaurants in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Guam and 13 other countries. Applebee’s is franchised by subsidiaries of Dine Brands Global Inc. [NYSE: DIN], which is one of the world’s largest full-service restaurant companies.
About Toys for Tots
Toys for Tots, a 71-year national charitable program run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, provides happiness and hope to disadvantaged children during each Christmas holiday season. The toys, books and other gifts collected and distributed by the Marines offer these children recognition, confidence and a positive memory for a lifetime. It is such experiences that help children become responsible citizens and caring members of their community. Last year the Marine Toys for Tots Program fulfilled the holiday hopes and dreams of 7 million less fortunate children in 800 communities nationwide. Since 1947 over 251 million children have been assisted. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a not for profit organization authorized by the U.S. Marine Corps and the Department of Defense to provide fundraising and other necessary support for the annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. For more information, visitwww.toysfortots.org.
Green Amendment Postcard Party to be held at Library
PARSIPPANY — On Tuesday, January 21, individuals and community groups across New Jersey are gathering to build support for a Green Amendment in the Garden State by writing postcards to State Legislators.
Thhe “Green Amendment Postcard Party” will take place at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library 449 Halsey Road on Tuesday, January 21 starting at 7:00 p.m.
Residents of Parsippany and surrounding communities, come out and learn about the Green Amendment, meet neighbors who are also engaged in the movement, and write to your legislators. We will provide you with stamped postcards, sample language, refreshments and help you identify appropriate legislators. NJ Highlands Coalition’s Elliott Ruga will provide an introduction, discuss in detail why we need a Green Amendment, give an update on the Green Amendment bills.
currently in the State Legislature, and answer your questions. Add your voice to an expanding grassroots movement! Your postcards will help increase the growing bi-partisan roster of 30 Assembly and 11 Senate sponsors of the Bills. If you value the right to clean water, fresh air, a stable climate and healthy environments, stop by our Postcard Party at the Parsippany Public Library.
What is a Green Amendment? The Green Amendment amends the Bill of Rights section of New Jersey’s Constitution, recognizing the right to clean water, clean air, a stable climate and a healthy environment as inalienable rights of individuals. Only two states, Montana and Pennsylvania, have constitutional Green Amendments. We need a Green Amendment in the New Jersey Constitution because despite having the most comprehensive environmental regulations in the nation, we cannot outright prohibit the pollution of our air, the degradation of our water supply, and the continued destruction of public trust natural resources, unless we have the rights to clean air, clean water and to live in a healthy environment enumerated in the Constitution.
The NJ Highlands Coalition is a lead member of the movement in New Jersey. Our objective is to accelerate support for the passage of a Green Amendment in New Jersey, so that individuals are protected, and communities and critical natural resources are sustained for future generations. For more information click here.
Casey (Kaushik) Parikh appointed to Morris County Planning Board
PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders appointed Parsippany resident Casey (Kaushik) Parikh to the Morris County Planning Board.
The Duties and Powers of County Planning Boards are:
- Adopt a master plan showing the county planning board’s recommendations for the development of the county.
- Advise the Board of Chosen Freeholders in adopting and establishing an official county map, showing the highways, roadways, parks, parkways, and sites for public buildings or works, under county jurisdiction, or in the acquisition, financing or construction of which the county has participated or may be called upon to participate.
- Review of all subdivisions of land within the county and for the approval of those subdivisions affecting county road or drainage facilities.
- Review of site plans for land development along county roads or affecting county drainage facilities and for the approval of such development.
Casey was recently appointed to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment by the Township Council on Tuesday, November 12.
Casey has over thirty years of experience in the field of computers communication and management; Demonstrated abilities in Public Relations, Community Service and Negotiations and he is founding member of Parsippany Indian Association.
He received his Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Florida Institute Of Tech., Melbourne, FL; Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) – Florida Institute of Tech., Melbourne, FL and Bachelor of Engineering (BSEE) – University of Bombay, Bombay, India.
Casey was employed at ADT / Tyco Security Services from June 1982 to July 2013.
At Tyco he was responsible for design and development of computer communication software, training users, supporting field offices, interviewing prospective employees and management of technical staff. Responsible for interacting with the vendors. Responsibilities also included evaluating and recommending hardware and software for making buying decisions.
He is a member of the Morris County Open Space Committee; Current Treasurer at Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany; Past president of Forge Pond Homeowners Association.
Casey also was the Chairman of Parsippany Troy-Hills Planning Board from 1993 to 2017. He volunteers as an interpreter for the Parsippany Police Department.
Casey is married and the proud parent of two children. He has been a resident of Parsippany-Troy Hills for over thirty years.
Other members of the board include Douglas R. Cabana, Freeholder; Christine Myers, Freeholder; Deborah Smith, Freeholder Alternate; Christopher Vitz, P.E., County Engineer; Roslyn Khurdan, P.E., Assistant County Engineer, Alternate; Ted Eppel; Isobel Olcott; Annabel Pierce; Steve Rattner; Everton Scott; Stephen Jones, Nita Galate, Alternate #1 and Christian Francioli, Alternate #2.
All Planning Board meetings are held at 30 Schuyler Place, Morristown, 2nd Floor, Schuyler Conference room at 7:00 p.m. The next meeting will be held on February 20, 2020.
Kiwanis Club held Prestigious Awards Ceremony
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany awarded three members and one local businessman with prestigious awards on Thursday, January 15, at the Hanover Manor.
In 1983, the Kiwanis Children’s Fund established the George F. Hixson Fellowship, named for Kiwanis International’s first president.
Hixon’s are given to Kiwanians who have contributed to the betterment of the club. The club is eligible to award a Hixson for each donation of $1100 to Kiwanis International Foundation.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany was chartered on December 5, 1991, and has awarded 43 members with the Hixon honor.
Club President Frank Cahill said “we are awarding two outstanding individuals with a Hixon, who not only gives back to our community in a meaningful way and ensures that all children have the opportunity to lead healthy, successful lives. We believe in changing the world one child and one community at a time. I have the pleasure of honoring Parsippany IHOP co-owner Mo Abdelhadi and Kiwanis member, Silvia Cooper.”
Silvia is a member who consistently works on projects and programs, including cooking for Homeless Solutions, Mission Partners, Wine Tasting, Touch-A-Truck and others. She is a member in good standing for at least two years, joining our club on November 9, 2017. She has attended at least 60% of the meetings. She has worked on a District project that has brought recognition to our club. She also attends many of our board meetings and adds valuable suggestions to every committee.
Mo, although he is not a member, he contributes to our club in many ways. During Touch-A-Truck he feeds all the volunteers; he has cooked and donated his time preparing food for our wine sips, makes many donations and supports projects of our club, is a mission partner. Mo, never says no. His generous contributions to our community are well appreciated.
The Kiwanian of the Year award is presented to a member of our club who distinguishes themselves by exceptionally commendable participation in our club activities throughout the past year. Although our club is built on participation by all our members, some members stand above the crowd as a result of their exceptional contributions to our club.
Since the inception of the club, they have honored 29 members as “Kiwanian of the Year.”
Cahill said “As the most recent recipient of the Kiwanian of the Year for 2018, I have the distinct pleasure of presenting our clubs most prestigious honor to two people who have gone far above and beyond anyone’s expectations and have, in the opinion of the nominating committee, met or exceeded the criteria for the honor of being named Kiwanian of the Year.”
Both of the recipients hold offices in our Club. Both have attended several District conventions. Both attend meeting regularly. Both are dependable and always involved in whatever the club is doing. Both have chaired major fundraisers for our club.
The first Kiwanian of the Year was President of our Club in 2016. He is known for his witty remarks and challenging questions that have delighted our brains for the past seven years as chairperson and emcee of our Trivia Night. This year, after working with Ron Orthwein, he took over the Sponsored Youth and is heavily involved with our Key Clubs, Builders Clubs and K-Kids throughout Parsippany. I’m sure this person would continue on in our Club for many years as a leader, but a little girl in Michigan has stolen his heart.
“I am proud to present Greg Elbin the Kiwanian of the Year Award for 2019,” said Cahill.
The second Kiwanian of the Year has made his mark in the club as chair of Touch a Truck. He too has taken on new responsibilities including this year as President of the Tri-Town Kiwanis Club serving Mountain Lakes, Boonton Township and Boonton.
Touch A Truck received recognition by New Jersey District Kiwanis in 2018 as the top Signature Project in New Jersey and was submitted to Kiwanis International. During the 2019 District Convention, Touch-A-Truck was again voted as the best signature project, based on the size of our club, by fellow Kiwanians throughout New Jersey.
He also co-chairs, Young Children Priority One, along with Dr. Judy Debrossy.
He has become quite the food coordinator for our Wine Sips and any function that needs food. He consistently is involved and supports our club.
“I am proud to present Nicolas Limanov with the Kiwanian of the Year Award for 2019,” said Cahill.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany supports ten K-Kids clubs: Lake Parsippany Elementary School, Eastlake Elementary School, Intervale School, Mt. Tabor Elementary School, Littleton Elementary School, Lake Hiawatha Elementary School, Troy Hills Elementary School, Northvail Elementary School, Knollwood School and Rockaway Meadow Elementary School; two Builders Clubs” Central Middle School and Brooklawn Middle School; two Key Clubs, Parsippany Hills High School and Parsippany High School; Circle K Club at Seton Hall University and one Aktion Club.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany is the largest Kiwanis club in the State of New Jersey. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46. For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany click here.
Registration Open for Par-Troy Little League East 2020 Spring
PARSIPPANY — Registration is now open for children age four and up who attend or will be attending Rockaway Meadow, Troy Hills, Lake Hiawatha, Knollwood, Northvail, Central, Parsippany High, and All Saints Academy.
It’s time for the 2020 season: All T-Ball and new to league children will get free registration. ($75.00 Volunteer Fee and $30.00 Fundraising Fee Required).
Registration will continue through February 28, 2020. After that time, your child will be placed on waitlist and placement on a team will not be guaranteed. A late fee of $25.00 will automatically apply to any registrations received after February 28, 2020.
You can register using one of the following two ways:
- Online Registration – For all new and returning players you must register online. You do not have to fill out a registration form. If you have a new player in your family you can add your child/children when registering online. Just mail in a copy of their birth certificate with payment. Click here; You must first create an account to begin the registration process. Once you create your account click register, Fill out Parent/Guardian info first and then fill in your child’s information
- In Person Registration – A date will be determined for an In-Person registration for new and returning players. Please check the website for dates. Please bring a copy of your child’s birth certificate if your child is new to the league. Ages need to be verified by Birth Certificate.
Information regarding Little League Baseball
Spring season runs from April till the end of June. Most games are held at the PTLLE complex, located in the back of Northvail School. T-Ball & Farm will play one night during week and one game on Saturday. Weekday games start at 6:00 p.m., and time varies for Saturday. Other divisions will play approx. two nights and one Saturday game. Some divisions play inter-league which will require travel to other local towns. Parents / Guardians are expected to stay at all practices and games. Managers and Coaches cannot be responsible for your child. PTE is run entirely by volunteers. Parental support is needed to maintain a safe and happy environment for your children. Volunteers who have direct contact with the children (coaches, managers, etc), must attend and pass a certified safety course (RUTGERS). A background check will be run on all these volunteers as mandated by Little League. To receive volunteer fee back, you must complete your task, fill out a refund form and submit to the concession stand by August 1. No refunds will be given after that date. Any withdrawals after April 1, 2020 are subject to a $50.00 penalty. There will be an annual Mandatory Fundraiser fee of $30.00 per family that will be collected during registration. There is also a $75.00 Volunteer fee required for each family which is very easily earned back through volunteering for any one of the many opportunities (I.E. Concession Stand, Coaching…).
If you have any questions, please contact: informationOfficer@ParTroyEast.com.
Click here to download information flyer.
Mayor Soriano appoints Sushmita Sharma to Library Board
PARSIPPANY — Mayor Michael Soriano announced the appointment of Sushmita Sharma to the Parsippany Library Board. Sushmita is an active member of the Parsippany community, with volunteer experience for several Parsippany-based organizations. She has run a small apparel business and worked as a teacher. She resides in Glenmont Commons with her husband, Anil, and two daughters.
“I’m looking forward to Sushmita’s service on our Library Board of Trustees,” Mayor Soriano said. “I think it’s vitally important that our Library Board have trustees with children in our schools. Sushmita will provide that important perspective in our mission to continually build on our library system’s fantastic services.”
Sushmita’s daughter, Riya Dadheech, is a Parsippany middle school student who started a successful nonprofit charity right here in Parsippany. Riya organized an Art Exhibit & Silent Auction event to support “Purple Paint – Girl’s Dignity & Empowerment” and at this event she raised over $7,000 towards the much-needed construction of toilets in schools in rural areas in India. This will help young girls continue their education.
“I’m proud to be able to serve this community that’s given so much to my family,” Ms. Sharma said. “The Parsippany Library System provides critical services to all residents of our township, from students to seniors, and I can’t wait to get to work on the issues we face.”
Ms. Sharma’s term will run through 2024.
CBRE arranges Solix lease at 10 Lanidex Plaza West
PARSIPPANY — CBRE recently arranged a 31,442-square-foot office lease at 10 Lanidex Plaza West for Solix Inc.
The Parsippany-based firm will occupy a part of the second and entire third floors of the 75,049 square-foot office building owned by Lincoln Property Co.
CBRE’s Thomas Mallaney and Denise Kokulak negotiated the 12-year lease on behalf of Solix Inc. In addition to lease negotiations, CBRE was also tapped as project manager for the build-out of Solix’s new office space.
CBRE is exclusive leasing agent for 5 Wood Hollow Road
PARSIPPANY — New York City-based PAG Investments said Wednesday it appointed CBRE as the exclusive leasing agent for 5 Wood Hollow Road.
PAG acquired the three-story, Class A office campus from Mack-Cali Realty Corp. The new ownership plans update and renovate the interior and exterior of the building and transform it into a premier office destination in the submarket.
Gershon Alexander, principal of PAG said, “We are excited about the opportunity to revitalize 5 Wood Hollow and solidify its position as the premier office building in the market.”
PAG plans to renovate and upgrade the common elements of the building, such as a brand-new cafeteria and a state-of-the-art conference room for all tenants to enjoy. They also plan to create an outdoor gathering place. The building is situated on a 23-acre site strategically located at the crossroads of Interstates 287 and 80, with easy highway access.
Dan Casey will lead the CBRE leasing team and oversee the leasing campaign at the property on behalf of PAG Investments.
“CBRE is thrilled to have the opportunity to work with PAG Investments and assist them in the lease-up of this high-profile asset,” said Casey, first vice president, CBRE.
“Currently, the entire third floor consisting of approximately 118,000-square foot available for lease, which represents the largest contiguous block of furnished office space on one floor in the entire Parsippany submarket.”
Tru Kids, Inc., has opened their corporate headquarters at 5 Wood Hollow Road. Tru Kids Inc. leased approximately 26,000 square feet. Toys”R”Us officially emerged as a new company, with new leadership and a new vision to deliver the magic of its iconic brands around the world.
Two office buildings on Cherry Hill Road sold
PARSIPPANY — BRE arranged the sale of a two-building office park located at 99 & 119 Cherry Hill Road for an undisclosed sum to “The Birch Group” on Nanuet, New York.
Jeffrey Dunne, Jeremy Neuer, Steve Bardsley, David Gavin, Gene Pride, Travis Langer and Zach McHale of CBRE Institutional Properties represented the seller and also procured the buyer, Mark Meisner of The Birch Group.
The Cherry Hill Road complex totals 191,249 square feet at the crossroads of Interstates 80 and 287, as well as Routes 46 and 202. The robust highway infrastructure has helped the buildings maintain strong levels of occupancy averaging 88% over the past ten years.
“The park’s historical leasing and location drove the interest and ultimately the buyer to execute,” said Dunne. “We are confident The Birch Group will build upon this momentum, given their recent leasing success at 350-360 Mount Kemble in Morristown, an asset we sold them in 2018.”
Three Board Members Take Oath of Office
PARSIPPANY — During the Reorganization Meeting of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education, Andrew Choffo, Alison Cogan and Kendra Von Achen took the Oath of Office for a three year term as a member of the Board of Education. The Oath of Office was administered by Mrs. Katherine Gilfillan, Esq.
During the November General Election, Alison Cogan received 5,232 votes; Kendra Von Achen received 4,573 and Andrew Choffo received 4,552 votes, to fill the three available seats. Andrew Choffo and Alison Cogan term was up on December 31, 2019. Mr. Joseph Cistaro’s term was also up on December 31, but he chose not to seek reelection.
Mr. Robert Quinn also was seeking a seat on the Board, but came in fourth place, receiving 4,132 votes.
Also at the reorganization meeting, Mr. Frank NEglia was elected to serve as President and Ms. Alison Cogan as Vice President.
CareOne has appointed Dr. Amina Ahmed to Chief Medical Officer
MORRIS COUNTY — Dr. Ahmed, a board certified Internal Medicine physician, served most recently as the Chief of Hospitalist Medicine and Post Acute Care for Summit Medical Group in Berkeley Heights. In her role at CareOne, she will be leading and developing clinical systems, infrastructure and protocols to support CareOne’s entire network of services, which include sub acute care, long term care, assisted living, LTACH, home care, hospice, pharmacy services and specialized memory care. Additionally, Dr. Ahmed will oversee the development of CareOne’s physician enterprise and C.I.N. (Clinical Integrated Network).
Lizzy Straus, CareOne’s Executive Vice President stated “we are thrilled Dr. Ahmed will be joining CareOne to assist our organization in elevating the care we provide to our patients throughout the many care settings and centers that we operate.” She continued “Dr. Ahmed is without a doubt the most experienced and outcome oriented physician practicing in the senior care field in New Jersey. CareOne will be able to launch several new initiatives that we have planned with even more confidence and success having Dr. Ahmed’s leadership and experience.”
A family owned and operated healthcare organization with more than 45 years of service; that include post-hospital care, rehabilitation, assisted living, memory care, long-term care and a variety of clinical specialty programs. CareOne offers compassionate care in gracious, professionally managed centers and communities and serves thousands of patients every day. CareOne’s outstanding programs and services are conveniently located across more than 55 centers throughout New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Maryland. Interested parties can engage with CareOne on social media by following @CareOneMgt on Twitter, @careonemgt on Instagram, and @CareOneManagement on Facebook.
In Strong Show of Support, Rep. Sherrill Heads into 2020 with $2.2 Million War Chest
WEST CALDWELL — Building on her strong fundraising and grassroots support, Representative Mikie Sherrill announced today that her campaign raised more than $750,000 in the last quarter of 2019 and enters 2020 with a war chest of $2.2 million. With her three-quarters of a million dollar raise in Q4, Representative Sherrill outpaced her fundraising from last cycle, and blew past the record $1.6 million cash on hand she set in the first quarter of 2018.
The enthusiasm that propelled Representative Sherrill to a 15-point victory in 2018 continued into the final months of 2019, with more than 93 percent of donations in the fourth quarter coming from grassroots supporters.
“Our community recognizes the importance of representation in Congress that is accountable, transparent, and effective,” said Representative Sherrill. “During my first year in Congress, I worked hard to fight for New Jersey families, and I will continue to find ways to reach across the aisle to lower our tax burden, strengthen our healthcare system, and improve our transportation infrastructure.”
Representative Sherrill delivered on key campaign promises in her first year in Congress, including votes in the House to end the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap, to lower the cost of prescription drugs, to protect the mission of Picatinny Arsenal, and to pass universal background check legislation for gun safety.
Planning Board to hold hearing an Amendment to Housing Element and Fair Share Plan
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Planning Board will meet on Monday, January 27 at 7:30 p.m. to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan.
Formal action may be taken by the Planning Board to Adopt the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan in order to implement the provisions of the affordable housing settlement reached in the matter captioned as: In The Matter of Township of Parsippany Troy Hills For A Determination Mount Laurel Compliance, Dkt. No. Civil Part MRS-L-001699-15.
This document will be on file in the Planning Board Office on or before Friday January 17, 2020.
Public participation at this meeting is welcomed. If you have further questions, call Nora Jolie at (973) 263-4286.