PARSIPPANY — IHOP, 792 Route 46, Parsippany, held a fundraising event for the Elvin family on Saturday, December 21 and raised over $1,000.
The Elvin’s home was destroyed when a structure fire was reported at a single-family home
located at 125 Allentown Road at approximately 5:38 p.m. on Thursday, December 5.
The family is currently living at a local hotel.
IHOP donated 15% of all sales it generated on Saturday, December 21.
If you are looking to donate to help the Elvin family, there is a GoFundMe account set up by Parsippany Hills High School Band Director Michael Iapicca. Click here to donate.
PARSIPPANY — 1 United MMA House recently celebrated its Second Anniversary. Joining in the celebration with brothers Ibrahim and Yusuf Yoldas was Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Executive Board Member Frank Cahill, Board Members Nicolas Limanov, Ildiko Peluso as well as many students, instructors and families.
1 United Mixed Martial Arts House aims to create a positive atmosphere for their clients by upholding the highest levels of integrity and character. They are here to help our clients reach their goals whether physical or mental. They strive to help every individual reach their highest potential and develop and grow as individuals. Their goal is to instill self-confidence, respect, honesty, discipline, and commitment in all of their clients whether they be children, teenagers or adults. By combining toughness of the mind and body through character development and physical stamina, their clients are able to excel in every aspect of their lives, making them happier and healthier people. 1 United Mixed Martial Arts House is Yusuf and Ibrahim’s way of giving back to the community and enjoining all of its members into a strong and fit family.
Abdu Yoldas, Ibrahim Yoldas, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Executive Board Member Frank Cahill, Yusuf Yoldas and Sarah Akrami officially cuts the ribbon celebrating the Second Anniversary of 1 United MMA HouseSome of the students with the owners at the Second Anniversary CelebrationIbrahim Yoldas, Yusuf Yoldas, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Executive Board Member Frank Cahill presents 1 United MMA House with a certificate of appreciation for serving our residents
1 United MMA House is located at 96 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha. For more information call (973) 917-3999 or click here.
1 United MMA House is a member of Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers 34th annual fundraiser and networking reception brought out at least 318 guests to support the anonymous tip line program that has led to nearly 500 arrests.
Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon addresses guests at the 34th annual Morris County Sheriff Crimestoppers fundraiser held on December 9
Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon served as host of the elegant gathering Monday, December 9, at the Birchwood Manor in Whippany that drew together law enforcement Officers from throughout Morris County, dignitaries and interested residents.
Officers in the Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach and Planning Section (COPS) – who serve as liaisons between the Sheriff and CrimeStoppers’ Board of Commissioners – organized the event.
Sheriff’s Office Corporal Erica Valvano provided information on Sheriff Gannon’s hallmark Hope One mobile substance use resource and recovery program, as Sheriff’s Office Investigator Ashley Craig did on the RSVP-3 program, which Sheriff Gannon started in 2018 in partnership with the Morris County Police Chiefs Association to curb violent incidents in schools.
Members of the Sheriff’s Office Explorers Post #140 were part of the festive occasion, opening doors for guests, answering questions and directing them to seating in a grand hall with buffet dining.
Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon names Morris County Sheriff CrimeStoppers Chairman John R. Sette the honorary Sheriff.
Sheriff Gannon named John R. Sette, the chairman of CrimeStoppers since its launch in 1985, an honorary Sheriff. He also presented the Morris Plains Police Department with the “Leaping LEO” award – which carried a $1,000 check from CrimeStoppers to the Morris Plains P.B.A. – for using the program more than other municipal police departments in 2019 to help solve its crimes.
“CrimeStoppers has really been a great tool for law enforcement throughout Morris County. And I don’t know where we’d be without it, obviously,” Sheriff Gannon said. Many of the tips pertain to drug-related crimes, he added.
“CrimeStoppers has proven effective and there are many of the county’s most notable residents serving as its commissioners,” Sheriff Gannon said.
CrimeStoppers Chairman Sette established the anonymous crime tip reporting program that offers rewards in 1985 with then-Morris County Sheriff John Fox.
Since CrimeStoppers was launched, police have made 479 arrests as a result of tips. There have been 441 cases cleared and CrimeStoppers has paid out $58,359 in rewards.
The program has achieved a total value of $444,284 in recovered property and drugs.
Sheriff Gannon commended CrimeStoppers for contributing $16,500 to creation and maintenance of the RSVP-3 app. Unveiled in October 2019, the app provides a simple, anonymous forum for students and anyone else to report threats to school safety. Chairman Sette also has been instrumental in securing an additional $7,000 in contributions to support the app.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff’s Office Detectives Michael Abate and Christina Kovacs – both skilled members of the Agency’s Crime Scene Investigation Section – were promoted Monday, December 16, to the positions of Detective Sergeant.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office Joint Honor Guard added solemnity to the occasion in which Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon administered the oath of office to the new Detective Sergeants in front of their families and fellow Officers in the Historic Courtroom of the Morris County Courthouse.
“The two new Detective Sergeants have distinguished themselves as Officers who perform with absolute integrity some of the most difficult and demanding duties in the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Section of this Agency,” Sheriff Gannon said.
“The Detectives in CSI are subjected to a lot of what goes on in this world, the violence, and they do a phenomenal job. It’s difficult work. But you can’t do it by yourself. This Agency does tremendous work as a result of the cooperation of all the other agencies,” Sheriff Gannon said.
Newly-promoted Morris County Sheriff’s Office Detective Sergeants Michael Abate and Christina Kovacs with their fellow Officers from the Crime Scene Investigation Section
Both Detective Sergeants are highly educated, with Detective Sergeant Abate currently on loan from the Sheriff’s Office to the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office. He was sworn in on October 31 as a Task Force Officer and serves on a financial crimes task force.
Morris County Sheriff’s Office Detective Captain Denise Thornton, who commands the CSI Section, gave ceremony well-wishers overviews of the credentials of the Detective Sergeants.
Detective Sergeant Abate graduated from The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.
A Distinguished Military Graduate, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army Military Police Corps. He served on active duty for 10 years, during which he commanded two companies, including the Fort George G. Meade Military Police Company, which was responsible for providing law enforcement to the installation and protecting critical federal assets.
Sergeant Abate also collaborated with federal, state and local agencies that supported the National Capitol Region and the Military District of Washington.
Sergeant Abate served in a variety of assignments throughout the world and directly supported Operation Joint Guardian II and Operation Enduring Freedom. He has held positions as a Platoon Leader, Company Commander, Coalition Joint-Task Force Provost Marshal and Force Protection Officer in support of the Global War on Terror.
Newly-promoted Morris County Sheriff’s Office Detective Sergeants Michael Abate and Christina Kovacs.
After his separation from the Army, Sergeant Abate worked in the financial industry as a financial advisor and compliance examiner for UBS Financial Services and then as a securities regulator for the New York City District of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.He completed his Army service as the Headquarters Commander of the First Recruiting Brigade, which was responsible for U.S. Army recruiting for the northeast United States.
Interested in continuing a career in law enforcement, Sergeant Abate was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in July of 2012. Upon graduating from the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, he was assigned to the Protective Services Division and then assigned in 2013 as a Detective to the Crime Scene Investigation section where he is qualified as an expert in fingerprints with the New Jersey Superior Court.
Sergeant Abate has received training in shooting reconstruction, bloodstain analysis, and crime scene photography.
Sergeant Abate earned a Master’s Degree in Business Administration in 2015 from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He has completed the U.S. Army’s MPs Captain’s Career Course, the Combined Arms Services Staff School, Physical Security Course, and Anti-Terrorism Course. Sergeant Abate has earned the Exceptional Duty Medal and the Veteran Service Medal.
Detective Sergeant Kovacs knew she wanted a career in law enforcement after participating in a Junior Police Academy while in the 6th grade.
Newly-promoted Morris County Sheriff’s Office Detective Sergeant Christina Kovacs at her swearing-in on December 16
Detective Sergeant Kovacs received a Bachelor of Arts degree in criminal justice from Caldwell College in 2009. She then attended graduate school at Rutgers University, from which she received a master of arts degree in criminal justice in 2011.She began volunteering with a Volunteer Fire Department in 2004 and in 2006 was certified as an EMT. She has received a multitude of life-saving awards related to her EMT skills.
Detective Sergeant Kovacs was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in July 2012. Upon graduation from the Morris County Public Safety Academy in 2012, she was first assigned to the Protective Services Division Holding Cell. She was transferred in June 2014 to the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Section, a position that earned her the rank of Detective.
Detective Sergeant Kovacs’ CSI specialties include Motor Vehicle Crash Investigation and Reconstruction, Bloodstain Pattern Analysis, and DNA Laboratory Evidence.
Because of her background as an EMT, Detective Sergeant Kovacs has been a member of the Special Operations Group, a partnership between the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Morris County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), since its creation. SOG serves as the medical response team to the Morris County Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT).
This past November 2019, Detective Sergeant Kovacs was the co-recipient of Sheriff Gannon’s Lifesaving Award. As a member of SOG, she responded on July 14, 2019, to a reported shooting at a home in Jefferson Township.
Disregarding a risk to her own safety, she was part of the team that entered the home to give life-saving aid to a wounded man in the house.
MORRIS COUNTY — The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys has recognized the exceptional performance of New Jersey’s Family Law Attorney Denise A. Wennogle, Esq. as 2019 10 Best Family Law Attorney for Client Satisfaction.
The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys is a third-party attorney rating organization that publishes an annual list of the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in each state. Attorneys who are selected to the “10 Best” list must pass AIOFLA’s rigorous selection process, which is based on client and/or peer nominations, thorough research, and AIOFLA’s independent evaluation.
AIOFLA’s annual list was created to be used as a resource for clients during the attorney selection process. One of the most significant aspects of the selection process involves attorneys’ relationships and reputation among his or her clients.
As clients should be an attorney’s top priority, AIOFLA places the utmost emphasis on selecting lawyers who have achieved significant success in the field of Family Law without sacrificing the service and support they provide. Selection criteria therefore focus on attorneys who demonstrate the highest standards of Client Satisfaction.
We congratulate Denise A. Wennogle, Esq. on this achievement and we are honored to have her as a 2019 AIOFLA Member. You can contact Denise A. Wennogle, Esq. directly by calling (973) 292-1800 or click here.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes new member, Shanick, LLC, 90 East Halsey Road.
PACC Executive Board Member Frank Cahill welcomed Nick to PACC and presented Nick with his membership plaque. Shanick is a Real estate development and Residential and commercial lending.
For more information on Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce click here.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents and volunteers that provides education, information and networking opportunities to the Parsippany Area.
PARSIPPANY — Meet Phoebe!! We recently rescued this petite pocket Pittie from a local, municipal animal shelter. She is just about a year-and-a-half-old and is cute as a button! Phoebe is fun-sized, coming in at only 40 lbs. She has a bit of a food allergy but we know she will be just fine in a couple of weeks on some new food!
Phoebe is fun, playful, and super loving. She also LOVES other dogs! Phoebe is very affectionate and loves to give kisses. She also enjoys playing with toys but is respectful with them and will happily give them up to you. Phoebe is also a lady at her food bowl.
Want to know even more great things about her? Phoebe is potty-trained and knows “sit,” “paw,” and “down”!!! She pulls a bit on leash but does great in a harness. Phoebe can also live with children 10+ and would love to have some furry and human siblings to play with!!
If you’re looking for a little ball of love and fun, apply to adopt Phoebe today!
If you are interested in adopting, please fill out an application by clicking here.
Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Instagram by clicking here.
Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Acting Chief of Investigations Christoph Kimker, Dover Police Chief Anthony Smith and Randolph Police Chief David Stokoe announce that Levi Young, 20, formerly of Dover, was sentenced Friday to ten years in New Jersey State Prison, with fifty-one months of parole ineligibility. The Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.Cr. presided over the case.
Mr. Young previously plead guilty to aggravated assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1); aggravated assault (strangulation) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(13); endangering the welfare of a child in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(2); witness tampering in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:28-5d; and contempt in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-9a.
Mr. Young must serve a minimum of 51 months of the ten (10) year term prior to being eligible for parole. In addition, he was ordered to pay mandatory fines and penalties and to have no contact with the victim.
Prosecutor Knapp said, “Detective Craig May and Detective Lydia Negron did an outstanding job locating this defendant and bringing him to justice. Assistant Prosecutor Gloria Rispoli led the prosecution and is also to be highly commended.”
Prosecutor Knapp thanked the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office’s Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, Dover Police Detective Bureau, Randolph Township Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, whose efforts contributed to the investigation and resolution of the matter.
PARSIPPANY — New York City-based PAG Investments purchased 330,00-square-foot office building located at 5 Wood Hollow Road from Mack-Cali Realty Corp. Tru Kids, Inc., has leased 26,000 square feet for their corporate headquarters at 5 Wood Hollow Road. Tru Kids is the parent company of Toys R Us.
Strategically located, 5 Wood Hollow Road in Parsippany is LEED® Gold certified and one of Morris County’s most exceptional office properties. This three-story, class A building’s center plaza with circular drive leads to the dramatic main entrance framed with a translucent canopy. The property is perfectly situated at the crossroads of interstates 287 and 80, providing easy access to highways, airports, and upscale communities.
The deal was reported by commercial brokerage firm Cushman & Wakefield. The 5 Wood Hollow Road property was designed by architect Charles Gwathmey of Gwathmey Siegel & Associates Architects. Until recently, the three-story building’s top floor—totaling approximately 117,000 square feet—was occupied by AIG.
No financial terms of the transaction were disclosed.
The top floor space currently is laid out for a full floor user and is equipped with office furniture and infrastructure to support a large tenant requirement. It is the only contiguous, single-floor availability of its size within the market. PAG plans to make significant upgrades to all building commons area to benefit existing and future tenants, C&W reports.
Cushman & Wakefield investment sales specialists Andy Merin, David Bernhaut, Gary Gabriel, Brian Whitmer, Kyle Schmidt and Frank DiTommaso represented the seller and procured the buyer for the 23-acre property, supported by leasing brokers William O’Keefe and Kelsey Nakamura.
C&W’s Gabriel notes that the buyer selection process was extremely competitive and involved multiple rounds of bidding.
“5 Wood Hollow Road is a prominent and recognizable address and Mack-Cali has done an excellent job in maintaining the building to a higher standard than the majority of buildings within the immediate market,” C&W’s DiTommaso adds. “PAG Investments saw value in both the quality of the building and the in-place tenancy and will continue to benefit from existing cash flow while further repositioning the property.”
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Express had 28 runners participate in the November 3 USATF-NJ Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships at Deer Path Park in Readington. Nineteen were on the course for the first time; six had personal best times. Team Parsippany had five top 15 medal winners in this competition.
2000 Meter Girls 6-8 Name Pace Per Mile Final Time
12 Azares, Catherine 8:50.6 10:59.30 First time on course.
13 McGee, Alexis 8:51.6 11:00.60 First time on course.
14 McGee, Kaitlyn 8:57.9 11:08.40 First time on course.
23 Novitskie, Sophia 11:18.8 14:03.50 First time on course.
Catherine and Alexis were on the Lakeland A team and they won!
Kaitlyn and Sophia were on the Lakeland B team and they placed Second!
Boys 2000 Meter 6-8 Name Pace Per Mile Final Time
32 Matacotta, Christopher 9:34.6 11:54.00 First time on course.
Chris was on the Lakeland B team and they placed 2nd!
Girls 9/10 3000 Meter Run Name Pace Per Mile Final Time
18 Mullan, Anina 7:41.1 14:19.40 Personal best by 29 seconds!
19 Vavilala, Eesha 7:42.0 14:21.20 (14:07 2018)
37 McGee, Emily 8:48.2 16:24.60 First time on course.
39 Verrone, Giuliana 8:53.8 16:35.00 First time on course.
Anina and Eesha were on the Lakeland A team. They finished in first place with 24 points, 23 points ahead of the Garden State Track Club. Emily and Giuliana were on the Lakeland C team and they finished in 4th place!
Boys 9/10 3000 Meter Run Name Pace Per Mile Final Time
39 Parvulescu, Alexander 7:47.2 14:30.80 First time on course.
42 MacKenzie, Michael 7:56.6 14:48.30 First time on course.
53 Matacotta, Alex 8:39.4 16:08.20 First time on course.
63 Jasinski, Conner 10:02.6 18:43.30 First time on course.
65 Novitskie, Franklin 10:17.4 19:10.90 First time on course.
66 Jasinski, Dylan 10:26.2 19:27.30 First time on course.
Alex P. was on the Lakeland B team that finished 4th. Michael was on the Lakeland C team that finished 4th. Alex M. , Conner, Franklin and Dylan were on the Lakeland D team that finished 6th!
Girls 11/12 3000 Meter Run Name Pace Per Mile Final Time
15 Chebyshev, Kira 7:09.4 13:20.40 (13:15 2018)
23 Duffy, Elizabeth 7:31.3 14:01.20 Personal best by 7 seconds!
29 Metz, Meghan 7:50.4 14:36.80 Personal best by 3 seconds!
36 Rhodes, Olive 8:05.0 15:04.00 First time on course.
46 Bilbao La Vieja, Aliyah 10:12.2 19:01.10 First time on course.
Kira was on the Lakeland A team that finished first 17 points ahead of the Garden State track club.
Elizabeth, Meghan and Olive were on the Lakeland B team that finished 4th.
Boys 11/12 3000 Meter Run Name Pace Per Mile Final Time
36 Metz, Brian 7:03.5 13:09.30 Personal best by 19 seconds!
38 Duffy, William 7:08.0 13:17.80 Personal best by 2 seconds!
63 Becher, Christopher 8:52.9 16:33.40 (14:00 2017)
Brian was on the Lakeland A team that finished in 3rd place. William and Chris were on the Lakeland B team that finished in 6th place.
13/14 Girls 4K Name Pace Per Mile Final Time
19 Sadowski, Anya 7:14.4 17:59.70 First time on course.
34 Bilbao La Vieja,Rocio 8:25.9 20:57.30 First time on course. Anya and Rocio were on the Lakeland A team that finished in 2nd place!
13/14 Boys 4K Name Pace Per Mile Final Time
4 Mullan, Albin 5:32.5 13:46.30 Personal best by 26 seconds!
47 Trella, Harry 6:37.3 16:27.50 First time on course.
60 Rosen, Jason 7:06.4 17:39.60 First time on course. Albin was on the Lakeland A team that finished in third. Harry and Jason were on the Lakeland B team that placed 6th.
PARSIPPANY — Morre-tec, a specialty chemical manufacturer and distribution firm, has signed a lease for 20,000 square feet of industrial/flex space at 181 East Halsey Road.
The Union-based company is a manufacturer and distributor of Bromine Compounds, specialty chemicals, and other products for the nutritional, food, personal care and biotech industries, as well as specialty adhesives. The lease deal was announced by NAI James E. Hanson. The commercial brokerage firm’s Scott Perkins, SIOR, CCIM, and LJ Koch represented the landlord, Jofra Realty, in the transaction.
Morre-tec’s lease at 181 East Halsey Road will provide additional space for the selected storage and processing of compounds in conformance with food grade product requirements, NAI James E. Hanson states.
PARSIPPANY — Santa arrived at Lake Parsippany firehouse on Saturday, December 14 to greet the children, take pictures, find out their wish list and give gifts.
4½ year old Roshan BhogadulaSmiling faces of Kathy Nolan and Cindy Barilla from the Lake Parsippany Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary;
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce hosted another successful “Staples Small Business Showcase” recently.
Staples is located in the Arlington Shopping Center, 760 Route 46. Their store hours are Monday thru Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can reach them by calling (973) 541-0300.
“Staples Small Business Showcase” is a monthly feature for Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC) members. Member business and area non-profit groups can contact Frank Cahill at (973) 402-6400 if they are interested in participating in this program.
Crunch Parsippany and Modern Acupuncture of Florham Park were two Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce members participating and displaying their services to the public.
Crunch Fitness will be opening shorty in the Arlington Shopping Plaza, 790 Route 46. For more information click here or call (973) 794-3652. Click here for a one day free pass. Crunch is a No Judgment Gym that believes in making serious exercise fun by fusing fitness and entertainment. Join Crunch for all your fitness needs!
ALicia Sudol, General Manager Staples; Henry Agramonte, Sales Manager Staples and Amanda Spina, Modern Acupuncture
Modern Acupuncture is located at 176 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park. For more information call (973) 358-0451. Watch for details about Modern Acupuncture’s Grand Opening!
Each Modern Acupuncture clinic is individually owned and operated. In some states, clinics are owned and operated by a professional corporation and managed by a Modern Acupuncture franchisee. All professional services are performed by licensed acupuncturists. More details, including ownership and information about the licensed Acupuncturists at a particular clinic, are available at the clinic. Individual and treatments may vary. Not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Acupuncture is administered by acupuncturists who are licensed professionals with masters or doctorates of Chinese Medicine. On average in the US it takes more than 2,000 hours to be eligible to earn an acupuncture license. Modern Acupuncture is a proud partner of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM®) and provides ongoing training. Exclusive Offer: For a limited time, new patients receive their first session on us! Click here and complete form to claim offer.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents and volunteers that provides education, information and networking opportunities to the Parsippany Area.
For more information on Staples Small Business Showcase contact Executive Board Member Frank Cahill at (973) 402-6400.
For a complete listing of available 2020 Staples Small Business Showcase click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Club (NJSFWC) has partnered with the New Jersey West Branches of Santander Bank to collect requested items for local children this holiday season.
The gifts will be donated to CASA of NJ, (Court Appointed Special Advocates), to benefit the children they serve.
Gifts that have been requested by December 28 include, hat, gloves, mitten, scarves, sweatshirts and sweatpants for boys and girls, toddler through teens, night lights, duffel bags or backpacks and $10.00 gift cards to Wendy’s. McDonalds, Burger King, Dunkin Donuts, Walmart and Target.
Branches that will be participating in the collection include; Parsippany, Boonton, Denville, Rockaway, East Hanover, Livingston, Newton, West Caldwell, Livingston, Byram, Cedar Grove, Hopatcong, Morris Plains, Randolph, Towaco and Wharton.
CASA of NJ is the NJSFWC Special State project for 2018-2020. Every two years, the Federation chooses a new project that all clubs in New Jersey can support with in kind and monetary donations, and support to the organization through education and advocacy.
The NJSFWC, founded in 1894 and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others, one project at a time is now celebrating 125 years of community service. Among its accomplishments are the founding of the New Jersey College for Women (now Douglass Residential College) in 1918 and the establishment of almost 75% of all public libraries.
CASA of NJ provides a voice for abused and neglected children by empowering a statewide network of local CASA programs serving all 21 counties of NJ. Dedicated community volunteers advocate in Family Court for the best interests of children in foster care to ensure their safety and well-being, and ultimately, their placement in nurturing, permanent homes with loving families. For more information click here.
PARSIPPANY — Representative Sherrill (NJ-11) voted today to pass H.R. 5430, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) Implementation Act. The USMCA makes critical improvements to the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) by strengthening enforcement, labor, and environmental provisions and ensuring that any changes put forward in the implementing legislation do not harm U.S. businesses, consumers, or workers.
“The USMCA is a bipartisan product of negotiation and agreement between Congress and the Trump Administration,” said Representative Sherrill. “We need a trade agreement that supports our workers, protects our environment, and helps businesses in our community grow. The USMCA will help our country face the changing 21st century economy.”
Key Provisions of the USMCA:
Supporting New Jersey’s 11th District: In 2017, NJ-11 had 35,400 jobs supported by trade with Canada and Mexico, $1.4 billion worth of NJ-11 goods and services exported to Canada and Mexico, and 61 percent of NJ-11 imports from Canada and Mexico were used as inputs by U.S. companies. USMCA Lowers drug costs and improves access to life-saving medicines.
Supporting American Business in a 21st Century Economy: Creates much-needed certainty in the North American market between the United States and two of its largest trading partners. Creates a digital trade chapter to allow more American goods and services to reach Mexican and Canadian markets. Expands the Export-Import Bank’s support for U.S. exports and American jobs. Removes the administration’s tariffs against Mexico and Canada, and therefore the retaliatory tariffs against U.S. exports.
Protecting American Workers: Significantly increases labor standards and makes them more enforceable, enhancing protections for American workers.
Protecting the Environment: Includes strong, fully enforceable environmental standards and protections, and directs U.S. officials to regularly monitor Mexico’s adherence to environmental laws, regulations, and standards.
Enforcement of the Rules: Helps the United States more successfully resolve labor, environment, and other disputes related to international trade.
The USMCA earned the endorsement of key organizations, including: AFL-CIO, Teamsters Union, United Steelworkers, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Business Roundtable, UPS, AT&T, National Restaurant Association, National Retail Federation, National Association of Homebuilders, National Association of Manufacturers, Consumer Technology Association, Coalition of Service Industries, and the Outdoor Industry Association.
MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio commended the State Auditor’s office after the release of the annual audit plan for 2020 revealed a pending review of the Garden State Film and Digital Media Jobs Act.
“The film tax credit is a significant expenditure of taxpayer money that demands scrutiny,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “The auditor has limited resources and a heavy workload. I want to thank him for listening to us and am pleased he made the commitment to review the costly program in the new year.”
Pennacchio first called for an audit of the $425 million Garden State Film Tax Credit program in July 2018.
“We cannot afford to waste any more money on incentives that are not producing a worthwhile return on investment for the people we serve,” Pennacchio said in a letter to the auditor seeking a comprehensive analysis of the incentive plan.
The audit is more crucial now, Pennacchio said, after a recent published report indicated that the New Jersey Economic Development Authority has approved more than $50 million in film tax credits. According to the report, the program may be extended through 2028 and the taxpayer money allotted for credits could be increased.
“The film tax credits come at a tremendous cost to New Jersey taxpayers. We need to understand how the money is being used and whether it is an effective expense,” Pennacchio said. “It would be irresponsible to commit one dollar more of taxpayer money to lure film crews to our state without a thorough evaluation of the fiscal impact and lasting benefits for New Jersey families. The auditors’ review will help answer some important questions.”
Pennacchio noted that a recent survey conducted by the University of Southern California’s Sol Price School of Policy found the film tax credit programs in Connecticut, New York and three other states have failed to deliver any significant job growth or economic gains.
“The only people benefiting from these programs are the Hollywood elites,” said Pennacchio. “The state may be giving away free stuff to the filmmakers without reaping any long-lasting economic benefits in the areas where they are filming.”
A published report about the USC study said film incentives have cost taxpayers in the five states a total of nearly $10 billion since their programs were enacted.
“Here in New Jersey, where families are crushed by the highest taxes in the nation, we cannot afford to waste hundreds of millions of dollars on incentive plans that don’t deliver as promised,” said Pennacchio. “I look forward to the results of this audit and ensuring the film tax credits aren’t a box office bust for taxpayers.”
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Frank Cahill welcomed new member David Andrews on Thursday, December 12.
Dave was introduced to Kiwanis by former club member Frank Atkins. Club President Frank Cahill presented Dave with his membership plaque and placed the official Kiwanis membership pin on Dave.
Cahill said “We welcome Dave to this global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany currently has 74 members. New members are always welcome. (Click here for more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany). Kiwanis members dedicate more than 6 million volunteer hours and invest more than $100 million in service projects that strengthen communities and serve children every year. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany ensures that all children have the opportunity to lead healthy, successful lives. They believe that by helping one child, you help the world.
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.
PARSIPPANY — New Jersey’s minimum wage will increase to $11.00 on January 1, in another step toward the $15.00 minimum wage enacted in February. Business leaders say that raising the minimum wage will boost consumer buying power, foster a more stable and productive workforce, and strengthen businesses and the economy.
New Jersey is one of 21 states raising its minimum wage at the new year, including six states (New Jersey, California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts and New York) on track to reach $15.00 in the future. Additionally, Washington D.C.’s minimum wage will reach $15 on July 1, 2020 and Connecticut will raise its minimum wage on September 1, 2020 in a step toward $15.00 by 2023.
New Jersey’s law, reflecting a compromise between the governor and legislative leaders, raises the minimum wage to $11.00 on January 1 for businesses with more than five employees (after increasing it to $10.00 on July 1, 2019 for these businesses), with future increases of $1.00 a year to reach $15.00 by 2024, followed by annual cost-of-living adjustments.The minimum wage increases to $10.30 on January 1, 2020 for seasonal workers and businesses with fewer than six employees, eventually reaching $15.00 in 2026 – followed by a two-year period for the slower-path minimum wage to catch up to cost-of-living adjustments in the regular minimum wage by 2028.
“Twenty-one states are ringing in the New Year with minimum wage increases, and that’s great news for business and our economy,” said Holly Sklar, CEO of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage. “It’s vital to remember that workers are also customers, and minimum wage increases boost the buying power of people living paycheck to paycheck. Minimum wage raises also pay off in lower employee turnover, reduced hiring and training costs, lower error rates, better productivity and happier customers.
Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, CEO of Earth Friendly Products, which manufactures ECOS® brand products in Parsippany (as well as California, Illinois and Washington): “With a higher minimum wage, turnover is lower, productivity is higher and customer service is stronger, helping businesses succeed. We start employees at $17.00 an hour and provide great benefits, and we’re still able to sell our products at competitive prices. Raising the minimum wage is an important investment in American workers and businesses.”
Scheduled increases for December 31, 2019 and January 1, 2020 include:
Arizona increases to $12 on Jan. 1, 2020 and is indexed for annual cost of living increases starting in 2021
Arkansas increases to $10 on Jan. 1, 2020 and $11 in 2021
California increases to $13 on Jan. 1, 2020, $14 in 2021 and $15 in 2022. Small businesses with 25 employees or fewer have an extra year to comply, reaching $15 in 2023. After the minimum wage reaches $15 for all employees, it will be indexed for annual cost of living increases.
Colorado increases to $12 on Jan. 1, 2020 and indexed starting in 2021
Illinois increases to $9.25 on Jan. 1, 2020, $10 on July 1, 2020, $11 on Jan. 1, 2021, with future increases of $1 a year to reach $15 by 2025
Maine increases to $12 on Jan. 1, 2020 and indexed starting in 2021
Maryland increases to $11 on Jan. 1, 2020, with future increases to reach $15 in 2025. Small businesses with fewer than 15 employees reach $11 on Jan. 1, 2020, with future increases to reach $15 on Jan. 1, 2026.
Massachusetts increases to $12.75 on Jan. 1, 2020, with increases of 75 cents a year to reach $15 in 2023
Michigan increases to $9.65 on Jan. 1, 2020, with future small increases until it reaches $12.05 in 2030, “or a subsequent calendar year”
Missouri increases to $9.45 on Jan. 1, 2020, with future increases of 85 cents a year to reach $12 in 2023 and then indexed
New Jersey increases to $11 on Jan. 1, 2020, with future increases of $1 a year to reach $15 by 2024 and then indexed. Businesses with fewer than six employees increase to $10.30 on Jan. 1, 2020 and then rise more slowly to $15 in 2026.
New Mexico increases to $9 on Jan. 1, 2020, with future increases to $12 in 2023
New York
New York City increases to $15 on Dec. 31, 2019 for businesses with 10 employees or fewer, putting all businesses in New York City at $15
Long Island and Westchester increase to $13 on Dec. 31, 2019, $14 in 2020 and $15 in 2021
The rest of New York State increases to $11.80 on Dec. 31, 2019 and $12.50 on Dec. 31, 2020. Annual increases starting in 2021 will bring the rest of New York to $15 on a schedule to be determined based on cost of living and other indices.
Washington state increases to $13.50 on Jan. 1, 2020 and indexed for annual cost of living increases starting in 2021
States with indexing where annual cost of living adjustments will take effect January 1.
Alaska increases to $10.19
Florida increases to $8.56
Minnesota increases to $10 for employers with an annual gross revenue of $500,000 or more and $8.15 for employers with less than $500,000
Montana increases to $8.65
Ohio increases to $8.70
South Dakota increases to $9.30
Vermont increases to $10.96
Looking ahead, Nevada, Oregon and the District of Columbia have increases scheduled for July 1, 2020 and Connecticut will raise its minimum wage on September 1, 2020.
The federal minimum wage has been stuck at $7.25 an hour since July 24, 2009—the longest period in history without a raise. On July 18, 2019, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Raise the Wage Act, which would increase the federal minimum wage to $15.00 by 2025, but the Senate has not acted.
MORRIS COUNTY — Current Pequannock Township Councilwoman and lifelong Morris County resident Melissa Florance-Lynch announced her candidacy for Morris County Freeholder.
A lifelong resident of Pequannock with more than ten years of extensive leadership in governing, Melissa will bring her commitment to public service, business development, and philanthropy work to the Board. “I’m looking forward to sharing my best practices in fiscal responsible governing with the Freeholder Board and the residents of Morris County,” Melissa said. Florance-Lynch has proved herself a resolute, fiscal conservative despite challenging budget limitations from mandates handed down from Trenton, the burden of protecting Pequannock’s residents from seasonal flooding, and the need to collaborate and create opportunity for the sharing of services.
“I’m proud to say that I’ve balanced the need for supporting community programs and resources for residents, while holding the municipal tax rate to an increase of less than three-quarters of one percent on my nine-year watch. That’s the kind of fiscal conservatism I will bring to the Morris County Board.”
A current Pequannock council member, Melissa is a tireless public servant having collaborated extensively with federal, state, and municipal officials to mitigate the impact of flooding on behalf Pequannock residents. She has welcomed countless new businesses into Pequannock spurring critical economic growth and helping to lower the residential tax rate.
A liaison to the the town’s Economic Development Committee, Melissa has overseen the growth of business in Pequannock Township as well as improvements to Pequannock’s business district. Philanthropy has been Melissa’s passion throughout her life and she has lent her talents to the Deborah Heart & Lung Center and Hospital Foundation, Pequannock Valley Rotary Club, Pequannock Twp. Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Suburban Woman’s Club of Pompton Plains.
A successful business woman, Melissa has been a licensed Realtor® for over twenty years and has been a Real Estate Broker and Sales Manager with Realty Executives for the past nine years. She recently was selected to receive the prestigious North Central Jersey Association of Realtors® (NCJAR) “REALTOR® of the Year” Award for 2020. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration – Seton Hall University.
PARSIPPANY — Sons of Italy #2561 donated to families for Thanksgiving. They donated 17 cooked turkey dinners purchased from ShopRite and another $1000.00 in gift cards.
Eight of the complete turkey dinners were distributed to families at Parsippany Child Day Care Center and the other nine dinners were distributed to individual families in Parsippany.
The Morris County of the Order of Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 is an affiliated member of the Order of the Sons of Italy In America Association, the largest and longest established Italian-American organization in the United States.
Morris County Lodge was founded as a non-profit organization, which contributes thousands of dollars to worthwhile local charities and families. The lodge is proud to be able to serve a small portion of needs to our local communities. Donations include, but are not limited to, The Parsippany Food Pantry, High School Scholarships, Gift cards to families in need, The Valerie Fund, Alzheimers, and many more.
Members of the Morris County Sons of Italy lodge meet once a month at a local restaurant, typically on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Meetings commence at 6:30 p.m. with members discussing monthly lodge business, fundraising, and community charity events and needs in the Morris county area.