PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Annual Rabies Immunization Clinic for Dogs and Cats will be Saturday, November 2 at Office of Emergency Management Building at the Recycling Center, 1 Pump House Road. No charge for dogs or cats.
Dog Schedule – 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Dogs must be on a leash and accompanied by an adult
Cat Schedule – 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Cats must be in carrier or similar carrying devices
For more information contact the Health Department at (973) 263-7160.
PARSIPPANY – Hogwash Car Wash, Detailing, and Lube Center held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, October 19.
Mayor Michael Soriano cut the ribbon officially opening the new car wash, detailing and lube center. Joined by Co-owners Henry A. Delgado, Patrick Higgins and Andrew Dourgarian was Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill.
Hogwash Car Wash, Detailing, and Lube Center is located at 1600 Route 46 West.
Hogwash Car Wash is easily reached located on Route 46 West and has been completely renovated to provide customers with the best car wash in Morris County.
Prevent dirt, road salt, and oil from permanently damaging your vehicle and it’s value. At HogWash Car Wash you can get an oil change and a car wash at the same location to keep your engine running smooth and car, truck, or SUV looking great.
MORRIS COUNTY — Who doesn’t love a good Tater Tot?? Tater Tot is a five-year-old Pug mix who, true to his name, is a compact couch potato!
Tater Tot is a total sweetheart with a calm relaxed soul. He wants nothing more than to curl up right next you and nap.
He is housebroken and crate trained. Tater Tot is great with dogs, male or female, and he loves to play in the yard with his foster siblings!
While Tater Tot enjoys roaming the backyard, he is also great on the leash and wants to follow you wherever you go! He has a great disposition and we think he can also live with young children!
If you’re looking for a cute potato, apply to adopt him 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.
HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Neighborhood Urgent Care and the Infectious Disease Center of New Jersey recently celebrated their ribbon cutting ceremony to their brand-new medical building located at 568 Route 10 West, Whippany.
Several town officials, including Hanover Township Mayor Ronald Francioli, attended the event. Robert Peluso, President of Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and Committeeperson Barbara Freda was also on hand for the celebration.
Neighborhood Urgent Care is locally owned and is focused on individualized care for our patients in our community.
Neighborhood Urgent Care is very unique given its direct access to top Infectious Diseases and Emergency Medicine physicians and their expertise. It is equipped with an X-Ray machine, ECG machine, I-Stat machine for instant labs, and different panels of rapid testing to ensure accurate and timely diagnosis of patients’ complaints.
It also has a fully equipped infusion suite for intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and vitamin infusions. Our new medical facility provides ample parking, and spacious and well-decorated rooms aimed to provide comfort to our patients.
Dr. Manal Youssef-Bessler is the founding member and is the recipient of the Top Infectious Disease Physician Award for many consecutive years by New Jersey Monthly Magazine, Castle Connolly, Inside Jersey Magazine, Millburn & Short Hills Magazine, and New York Magazine. She is the recipient of the Physician Excellence in Health Care Award from Saint Barnabas Medical Center for her efforts in diagnosing a rare case of Lassa hemorrhagic fever in New Jersey and for her tireless collaboration with the CDC in managing complicated infection control issues with this case.
For cases that are difficult to diagnose and treat, Dr. Bessler’s expertise is routinely requested. Her areas of interests include severe sepsis and septic shock, tick borne disorders, pulmonary and intra-abdominal infections, and fevers of unknown origins. Neighborhood Urgent Care is very proud that two of our physicians have received top awards in their respective fields.
Dr. Lejla Mujic received the Top Emergency Medicine Physician Award by New Jersey Monthly Magazine for several consecutive years, and Dr. Robert Deutsch also received the Top Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physician Award by New Jersey Monthly Magazine for several consecutive years. We are also very proud to announce that the Infectious Disease Center of New Jersey’s Dr. Janet Lin and Dr. Marjut Kokkola-Korpela received the Top Infectious Disease Physicians Award by New Jersey Monthly Magazine for several consecutive years.
Dr. Lin’s areas of interest include infection control and nosocomial infections. Dr. Kokkola’s areas of interest include HIV, women’s health, and tropical diseases. Along with the above-mentioned physicians, both practices are well-staffed with excellent physicians, nurse practitioners, and physicians’ assistants who have invested their careers in public health. Both practices are accepting most major insurances, and work very closely with patients who have large deductibles or no insurance to provide them with excellent and affordable care. You can reach Neighborhood Urgent Care and the Infectious Disease Center of New Jersey by calling (973) 535-8355 or click here to visit their website.
MORRIS COUNTY — On Thursday, October 17, Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas A. Zelante, Acting Chief of Investigations Christoph Kimker, Chief Assistant Prosecutor Brad Seabury, and members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Division briefed municipal law enforcement participants for the next phase of Operation Helping Hand.
Operation Helping Hand, first launched in Bergen County, is an initiative where substance abuse treatment is offered to those arrested for possessory drug offenses. In the summer of 2018 Prosecutors’ Offices from five counties, including Morris County, participated in a statewide phase of OHH, alongside many municipal police departments and sheriff’s offices. Morris County instituted its own OHH program in 2019.
Morris County will roll out the next phase of Operation Helping Hand, which will start in October and continue through August, 2020. A coordinated and collaborative operation comprised of local and county law enforcement partners will participate. If an individual is arrested for a controlled dangerous substance offense during an OHH operation, they will be offered the opportunity to avail themselves of recovery resources. If accepted, the individuals will be referred to a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist from the Center for Addiction, Recovery Education and Success (CARES).
Prosecutor Knapp said “This program is all about saving lives. It is about getting people into treatment where they will hopefully take advantage of the resources offered to them to combat the illness of addiction.”
During the first phase of the Morris County Operation Helping Hand, Morris County law enforcement made 45 arrests, four of which included charges for possession of controlled dangerous substances with the intent to distribute. Of the 35 individuals deemed eligible for Operation Helping Hand Services, 27—or 80% of them, accepted treatment. The operation also resulted in the seizure of over 1,000 folds of heroin, more than two ounces of cocaine, and more than two pounds of THC-related substances, including marijuana, hashish, and vape pens and cartridges.
One individual arrested during Operation Helping Hand spoke at the briefing about her experience, and described how the connections forged through the program have allowed her to enter treatment and begin the road to recovery.
PARSIPPANY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Investigations Christoph Kimker, and New Jersey State Police Superintendent Patrick J. Callahan announce and confirm an ongoing investigation into a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred in Parsippany-Troy Hills.
The driver who caused the crash was taken to the hospital and police are looking into the possibility the man was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, according to a law enforcement source.
On Friday, October 18, at approximately 1:45 a.m., law enforcement was dispatched to Route 80 Eastbound near mile marker 45.2 on a report of a multi-vehicle crash. The fatalities of two adult females and one adult male have been confirmed.
One of the victims was identified as Jalen Monet Davis, 20. There is a donation page set up for Jalen, click here for more information.
Her mom, JoAnn Merritt said “Jalen just turned 20 two weeks ago and was working on her music career. She was such a loving spirit with the heart to serve and help people. She was the most unselfish person known. She was loyal to a fault and opened her heart to everyone. She always saw the good in everyone.” Jalen currently lives in Atlanta Georgia but previously was from Parsippany attending Central Middle School.
The investigation remains ongoing and further information will be released at a later time. Information on the other two victims have not been released at this time.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany High School (PHS) will be inducting their 2019 Hall of Fame Class on Friday, November 1 at 5:00 p.m. in the Media Center with a brief ceremony at the start of the Football game at 7:00 p.m.
PHS would like to invite community members, alumni, parents and students to celebrate with us at this year’s induction ceremony. If you know any of the inductees or classmates of theirs please reach out to them.
This year’s class consists of three impressive inductees.
Frederick “Bud” Weider ‘62
Bud was an amazing educator who connected with his students in and out of the classroom, teaching Architectural Drawing and lessons about life. Bud taught focus and discipline and the development of technical skills, but he did so using a hilarious sense of humor and a big heart. He stayed in contact with many of his former students and was invited to numerous weddings and reunions. Bud taught for twenty-three years and never took a sick day; he was always prepared and ready to make a difference.
Bud coached baseball at PHS from 1981 to 1987 compiling a record of 101-35, and was also an Assistant Basketball Coach. He went onto be the Head Baseball Coach at West Morris Central High School where he won over 200 games and a Morris County Championship, in addition to four appearances in the State Finals. Bud passed away in 2019, leaving behind a wonderful legacy at PHS and beyond.
Steve McCarthy
Steve McCarthy taught English at PHS for thirty-six years as a teacher. In the classroom, he was particularly skilled at working with students and motivating them to succeed and graduate. His patience, compassion and knowledge of reading and writing skills impacted thousands of Par High students. Steve also served as Boys and Girls Tennis Coach for 70 seasons (40 Boys, 30 girls), finishing his career with an incredible 639 wins. He even coached Ice Hockey for six seasons. After his retirement, Steve came back to PHS and continues to serve as a valuable, reliable and enthusiastic substitute teacher. Mr. McCarthy is a mainstay at PHS and is remembered for his student-centered approach, his long and successful coaching career and his dedication to the school.
Frederick Paradise ‘80
Fred Paradise (‘79) was a standout football, basketball and baseball player for Parsippany High School from 1977-1980. Fred earned 11 varsity letters playing quarterback/defensive back, point guard and outfielder and accumulated numerous individual honors in addition to tremendous team success (7 Conference, County and State Titles!). He was also an outstanding student and very involved in extracurricular activities including Student Council, Varsity Club, Pep Club and PTSA. For his success on the field and in the classroom, Fred was named Morris County Male “Scholastic Athlete of the Year” in 1979. Some of his specific accomplishments include:
Football: 406 passing yards in a game (school record), 1,127 passing yards in a season (school record); 6-3 record senior season; Daily Record Offensive Player of the Year; 1st Team All Morris County Quarterback (Daily Record, Daily Advance, The Citizen); Daily Record “Redskin of the Year Award”
Basketball: 166 assists in a season (school record at the time); 19.2 senior season avg.; 1st Team All-Morris County (Star Ledger, Community News, NY Daily News, Daily Record, Herald News, The Citizen); helped lead teams to 42-6 record over junior/senior seasons and 2 Conference Championships, 1 County Championships and 2x State Sectional Championships; Two-time Tri-County One-on-One Champion.
Baseball: Batted over .300; helped to lead team to a 20-6 record during senior season and Conference & State Sectional Championships; Group III Finalist.
MORRIS COUNTY — United Scenic Artists 829, a union representing the entertainment and decorative arts industries, has endorsed Democratic challenger Cara Parmigiani for Morris County Freeholder.
The United Scenic Artists 829, IATSE, is a labor union and professional association of designers, artists, craftspeople and department coordinators organized to protect craft standards, working conditions and wages in the entertainment and decorative arts industries. Members work in film, theater, television, opera, ballet, commercials, industrial shows and exhibitions.
“The artists who produce our theater, film and entertainment experiences are exceptionally skilled and talented professionals who use their gifts to bring so much joy and enrichment to our lives,” Parmigiani said. “I am incredibly honored to have their support. I stand firmly behind efforts to protect workers from injury, illness and death in unsafe work environments on the set of these artistic endeavors and everywhere work happens,” she said.
“Morris County offers residents some wonderful opportunities to enjoy stage and theater productions here at home,” Parmigiani said. “I’d like to work to expand those opportunities across the county, especially to make arts programming more accessible to our youth and seniors,” she said.
Cara has appeared as an attorney in 15 New Jersey counties in most divisions of the Superior Court. She has also appeared before various planning boards, zoning boards and municipal courts. Cara provided guidance for a Municipal Master Plan re-evaluation and served on her local Affordable Housing Advisory Committee. Cara represents patients in psychiatric facilities across the state. Cara is a graduate of Rutgers University and Seton Hall Law School. She lives with her wife and daughter in Morris Plains.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Acting Chief of Investigations Christoph Kimker, and Morris Township Police Chief Mark DiCarlo announce the arrest of Thomas H. Meier, 35, of Mount Arlington.
Meier has been charged with one count of Sexual Assault (Second Degree) and one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Second Degree).
Meier was employed at Head Start of Morris County as a teacher.
On Tuesday, October 8, a coworker observed Meier engaged in an act of sexual contact upon a three year old child. Thereafter, the matter was reported to staff and law enforcement.
The defendant was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a court appearance. The investigation was conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit and the Morris Township Police Detective Bureau with assistance from the Mount Arlington Police Department.
Anyone with information relating to this incident is asked to call Detective Supervisor Carolina Moreno of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200 or Detective Rob Dombrowski of the Morris Township Police Department at (973) 326-7480.
Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of a criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — Ready for Spooky Season? Join the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills on Thursday, October 31, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.for Trunk or Treat! Featuring our first ever “Vehicle Contest”, photo location, arts, crafts, and more! We hope to “scare” you all there!
Food and drink will be available to purchase at the PAL. Parking will be available at Smith Field. If you have any questions please call the Mayor’s Action Center at (973) 263-4262.
Residents and Township Businesses are needed to make this event a success for all. If you are interested in decorating a car, please contact Parsippany Recreation at recreation@parsippany.net or Register online at www.pthreconline.com
Key Information for Trunk or Treat:
PARSIPPANY — One of New Jersey’s fastest-growing churches and ranked #56 in Outreach Magazine’s 2019 list of the Top 100 Fastest-Growing Churches In America, Liquid Church is raising awareness and funds for its signature Clean Water Cause by hosting the first-ever Run For Rwanda 5K & 1.5 Mile Fun Run on Saturday, October 19 in Parsippany. The 5K begins at 9:30 a.m. and the 1.5 Mile Fun Run begins at 10:30 a.m.
“Rwanda is a country with an ambitious goal – to be the first in Africa with 100% access to clean water and at Liquid Church, we’re committed to helping Rwandans reach this milestone,” said Tim Lucas, lead pastor and founder of Liquid Church. “Right now 25% of Rwandans have no other choice but to drink dirty water that carries water borne diseases and makes families ill. Globally, 2,300 children die each day from drinking unsafe water. The clean water crisis is a global epidemic and by hosting Run For Rwanda, we’re not only drawing attention to the crisis, but we’re raising funds that can be used to effect real change.”
Liquid and its overseas partner Living Water International have been working together in Rwanda since 2015, when Liquid donated a $250,000 high-speed drill rig capable of reaching and drilling wells in remote villages. To date, Liquid has helped to open 153 clean water wells throughout the Ruhango district of Rwanda. Funds raised through the Run For Rwanda will help to complete the WASH program (water access, sanitation, hygiene) in the Ruhango district, while positioning the church to help new families in another region of the country – Busasamana.
“Whether people join us to run, walk, or stroll, I want them to know that their participation in the Run For Rwanda is helping to bring clean water to the thirsty. They are having a real impact,” added Lucas. “For the millions of thirsty people in Rwanda, safe water can ultimately transform their health, safety, education, and livelihoods!”
The Run For Rwanda is a chip-timed race, and all ages, stages, and abilities are welcome to lace up and join the 5K or 1.5 Mile Fun Run that will take place on the wide open roads surrounding Liquid Church’s offices at 299 Webro Road in Parsippany, New Jersey. Participants are invited to sign-up as individuals or create and join teams.
“We’re seeing some incredible team names that certainly put a smile on my face; ‘Run Like The Winded,’ ‘Runnin’ On a Prayer,’ and ‘Grace For My Pace’ to name a few. We want people to have fun and to rally their family, friends, and neighbors to join them on the racecourse in order to multiply their impact. Together we can bring hope and healing to families in East Africa,” said Lucas.
Participants are encouraged to register in advance for Run For Rwanda – registration forms and race details can be found at www.RunForRwanda.com. The 5K begins at 9:30am and the 1.5 Mile Fun Run begins at 10:30am. Additional activities include an Outdoor Expo and Indoor Family-Friendly Funtivities such as African Drumming, a Water Walk, A Rwandan Village Sensory Experience, and Imigongo Tattoos. The event will wrap-up with a 5K Awards Presentation.
To learn more about Run For Rwanda click here. To get answers to Frequently Asked Questions, click here, and to learn more about the Clean Water Cause click here.
Liquid Church is one of New Jersey’s fastest-growing Christian churches. Officially launched in 2007 by Lead Pastor Tim Lucas, the church’s vision and mission is to “Saturate the State with the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” with seven campuses in Essex, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Somerset, and Union Counties. Each week, over 5,000 people experience Liquid Church’s worship services in New Jersey and around the globe through Church Online. As part of its global outreach, Liquid provides clean drinking water to those in need, with hundreds of completed wells around the world, including El Salvador and Nicaragua – and most recently, Rwanda! Liquid Church’s innovative approaches to outreach and ministry have been spotlighted by CNN, FOX News, and The Today Show. For more information click here.
PARSIPPANY — Cushman & Wakefield is launching the marketing for 200,000 square feet of premier industrial warehouse space at 100 Jefferson Road. The 550,000-square-foot property, under new ownership/management, recently underwent a $4 million capital improvement program that includes new warehouse space, upgraded office space, restrooms and building entrances, resurfaced parking areas and new mechanical systems and lighting.
Located at the intersection of Interstates 80 and 287, 100 Jefferson Road sits on nearly 36 acres just minutes from Routes 10, 46 and 202, and the Morristown CBD. The property provides access to New York City, Newark Liberty International Airport and the Port of NY/NJ, all within 30 minutes.
The space is available for immediate occupancy and may be divided. The meticulously maintained and well-located building boasts exceptional curb appeal along with nine loading docks and approximately 200 on-site parking spaces. It is one the largest warehouse/distribution availabilities in the Northern New Jersey market, according to Andrew Siemsen of Cushman & Wakefield’s Iselin office, who is heading the leasing effort along with Jason Goldman and Michael Kimmel.
“100 Jefferson Road is a quality asset that provides tenants with functional space, including 19-foot ceiling heights, nine loading docks and two box truck doors,” Siemsen said. “Additionally, it provides immediate access to a residential population of more than 16 million people within a one-hour drive, making it ideal for last-mile and e-commerce distribution. New ownership, led by Turnbridge Equities, has invested millions of dollars in improving the property and providing Class A experience for tenants. This is truly a one-of-a-kind opportunity in this highly sought-after market with very limited availability and an overall vacancy rate of only 3%.”
TRENTON — First Lady Tammy Murphy announced her initiative to incorporate climate change education into New Jersey’s K-12 academic standards. Over the past several months, the First Lady has met with the over 130 educators from across the state who have been charged with reviewing and revising the existing student learning standards, a process that occurs every five years. During these meetings, First Lady Murphy, in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Education, has implored these educators to incorporate climate change education into all nine content areas — 21st Century Life and Careers, Comprehensive Health and Physical Education, English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Technology, Visual and Performing Arts, and World Languages.
“We have already begun to feel the effects of climate change here in New Jersey.” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “Our shorelines are disappearing, rain comes in torrential downpours, and our summers are blazing hot. But, it is not enough to understand climate change from solely a scientific perspective. We have an obligation to our kids to prepare them for the reality that awaits them as adults—and that reality will include the effects of climate change across almost every aspect of their lives.”
Since Spring 2019, the First Lady has visited elementary, middle, and high schools across the state that have already implemented strong climate change education and sustainability initiatives. These schools include Mount Arlington Public School, Whitehouse Elementary School, Millbridge Elementary School, George L. Catrambone School, and Delran High School. The First Lady will continue her tour of schools this fall with stops at Valleyview Middle School, J.V.B. Wicoff Elementary School, Egg Harbor Township High School, and Alder Middle School, with more to come. All of these schools participate in the Sustainable Jersey for Schools program.
“We are already a national leader in education, but we have the opportunity to become the first state in the country to incorporate climate change into all of our core content areas,” continued First Lady Tammy Murphy. “As our students graduate and go on to become artists, economists, activists, and more, they will be prepared to report findings, write grant proposals, develop plans, advocate, communicate ideas, and innovate throughout every sector of our economy as climate literate professionals.”
Advocating for the incorporation of climate change into our student learning standards also supports Governor Murphy’s current work to put New Jersey on a path to 100 percent clean energy by 2050. As a long-time advocate for policies that combat climate change, the First Lady acknowledges that educating our youth is the next step toward securing a clean future.
“Last week’s Climate Strike and Greta Thunberg’s call to action dramatically illustrate the responsibility that current leaders have to future generations,” said New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Catherine R. McCabe. “We stand with students and recognize it is up to all of us to provide them with the education and tools they need to help lead New Jersey and its response to climate change in the years ahead. The First Lady has long been a climate change champion and the DEP is thrilled to join her in our shared goal of reducing and responding to climate change.”
“The Department of Education thanks the First Lady for her involvement with the standards review teams over the past year,” said Education Commissioner Lamont O. Repollet. “Our goal is to design standards that continue to ensure New Jersey students are prepared to think critically, analyze data, and work collaboratively as effective stewards of the Earth’s natural resources.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Sheriff James M. Gannon, and Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano announce an investigation into a double fatal accident that occurred Friday evening.
On Friday, October 11, at 7:29 p.m., Montville Police responded to the intersection of Route 202 and Heritage Court on a report of a motor vehicle accident with injuries. The investigation revealed east of the intersection, a 2009 Saab and 2016 Nissan collided.
The rear seat passenger of a Saab, a 93-year old female from Hallandale, Florida, was pronounced dead at the scene. The two other occupants of the Saab were injured and transported to Morristown Medical Center.
The two occupants of the Nissan were transported to Morristown Medical Center. A passenger of the Nissan, an 85-year old male from Totowa, was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
The accident is under investigation by Montville Township Police Department Traffic Bureau, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and Morris County Sheriff’s Office.
PARSIPPANY — You may be busy raising your family or serving as a caregiver for relatives and regret not having the time to help improve your community. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and Sons of Italy #2561 has a solution to that dilemma.
On Thursday, October 17, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., you can help improve the lives of others and have fun while doing so by attending the Kiwanis annual wine tasting at the Hanover Manor in East Hanover.
This wine Tasting is the Kiwanis Club’s largest fundraising event with the goal of supporting programs that benefit children and youth.
The local programs funded by the Kiwanis Club include: sponsored youth programs in the Parsippany Troy Hills school district, such as Key Clubs in both high schools, Builders Clubs in the middle schools, and K-Kids Clubs in all of the elementary schools; Parsippany Day Care Center; Parsippany Library; the Stickley Farms family fun day and numerous other 501(c)3 organizations that serve children and families. In addition to this financial support of children’s leadership development and service initiatives, the club meets the basic needs of the less fortunate families in our community by providing food and food cards, toiletry items, and blankets through a partnership with the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Community Center. The Club also supports state and national organizations that serve the needs of children and their families.
Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 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, Alzheimer’s, and many others.
Joe Canal’s is a major sponsor of the wine tasting event. The event includes silent and live auctions; delicious hot and cold buffet; wines and liquors; and an opportunity to help raise money and do good for others.
In addition, Kane Brewing Company specializing in brewing American and Belgian-style ales will be sampling their products at the event.
Tickets are only $65 each. Kiwanis is a 501(C)3 organization and your contribution is tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.
If you would like to purchase tickets, visit kiwaniswinetasting.com, or call Frank Cahill (862) 213-2200.
For more information on The Sons of Italy Lodge 2561 visit www.soi2561.org. For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany visit parsippanykiwanis.org.
PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, October 9, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano cut the ribbon during the grand opening celebration of Trinity Rehab, located at 131 New Road.
Joining Mayor Soriano were Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Tonya Gavrielides, Director of Operations Trinity Rehab, Keith Scott, Northern Regional Director Trinity Rehab, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Committee Chairperson Barbara Freda.
Trinity Rehab Northern Regional Director, Keith Scott, MPT, OCS, the on-site team providedvaluable prevention tips and rehabilitation treatment options, including one of the greatest safety risks when winter weather looms ~ slips, trips and falls. Attendees of the open house had an opportunity to tour the facility, meet the center staff, test the state-of-the-art AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill® and schedule a one-on-one wellness consultation. Guests enjoyed light refreshments.
Trinity Rehab not only treats injuries but strongly believes in prevention through education. It is inherent in the Trinity Rehab Three T – Technology, Teamwork and Tailor-Fit – Approach taken with all patients but equally for the community as a whole. Programs are designed to discuss the broad nature of physical therapy in a way that addresses that every ‘body’ is unique and each person has a different cause for their symptoms even if the diagnosis is the same. “I have always been committed to providing the highest level of care by custom-designing patient programs that meet one’s specific needs and goals,” says Scott, MPT, OCS. He goes on to say, “This open house is a great way to introduce area residents to the Trinity Rehab culture and our pledge of excellence as well as become integral members of the community working together to make a difference.”
Founded in 2001, Trinity Rehab is an all-inclusive physical therapy and rehabilitation center that treats patients of all ages, walks of life and fitness levels for back and neck pain, orthopedic injuries, post-operative rehab, sports related injuries, auto or work accidents, hand therapy and other common or rare conditions. State-of-the-art technology, including the highly effective, non-invasive EPAT® treatment, video monitoring and AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill®, is complemented by its teamwork approach and tailor fit treatment plans unique to each patient’s needs. Trinity Rehab is located at 131 New Road in Parsippany, New Jersey with flexible appointment scheduling Monday through Friday. Trinity Rehab has a growing list of convenient locations throughout New Jersey and participates with Medicare and most commercial insurances. For more information click here or call (800) 518-0977.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Dean Spadavecchia responded to the parking lot of the Green Hill Plaza on a report of an active vehicle fire at 5:41 p.m. on October 3.
Upon arrival the officer observed a white sedan with flames emanating from the hood.
The vehicle, a 2006 Ford Model 500, owned by John J. Desalvo, Riverdale.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officers Appel and Krol also arrived on the scene and began to locate the owner of the vehicle. Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire Department District 6 extinguished the flames.
Desalvo said “he was driving to work when the check engine light appeared. I pulled over into the Green Hills Shopping Center to investigate the issue. He opened the hood and observed flames in the engine compartment and immediately asked bystanders to call 911.”
According to the officers, DeSalvo’s cell phone and various clothing and vehicle documents were destroyed in the fire.
Powder Mill Towing removed the vehicle from the scene.
Dear Editor:
Yesterday, I attended a press conference where an app was introduced in furtherance of our RSVP-3 Program designed to keep students safe by monitoring “red-flags” through an anonymous reporting system. The purpose of this program is to prevent problems from starting in the first place, and one of the reasons students act out against other students in instances of school violence is bullying.
The internet has made bullying a commonplace occurrence, as it allows individuals to hide behind a computer screen, and often a fake persona, from which they can comfortably attack another without fear of retaliation.
They subjects of bullying suffer greatly, both at the time the bullying occurs and for the rest of their lives from the emotional scars it leaves behind.
Right here in Morris County we have had people take their own lives because of the cowardly torment of bullies.
In Chatham, less than a month ago, the Out of the Darkness Walk took place to raise awareness about suicide and help prevent the suffering that leads to this end. We have all heard stories of the impact of bullying and torment on individuals throughout the county, including elected officials who have had the courage to come forward and speak about racist attacks or harassment because of their sexual orientation that nearly caused them to take their own lives. No one should ever find themselves contemplating suicide as the result of the prejudice, jealousy or hatred that is manifested in torment by others.
I am absolutely disgusted by something I saw on social media today, directed toward one of our citizens, that is completely contrary to our efforts in Morris County to prevent bullying and the harm it causes. In Morris County, we have people who are of different genders, religious beliefs, sexual orientations and ethnicities.
I denounce online bullying and intimidation by anyone and believe that it should be accepted by no one. We all coexist here and there is absolutely no room in our community for intolerance toward others and the clearly documented damage it does to the targets of these cowards. Morris County does and always will promote a stigma-free environment, embracing diversity within our community and denouncing hate in all of its forms. There is absolutely no place in Morris County for bullying of any kind.
Heather Darling
MORRIS COUNTY — Linda Groszew took a circuitous career path to becoming senior program manager and volunteer coordinator at Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey.
A certified dental assistant and part-time piano teacher after high school, Groszew decided in her early 20s to pursue a degree in music education. She married while attending William Paterson University, and just as she completed her degree, Groszew gave birth to a son. Four years later, in 1988, quadruplets arrived.
“They kept me busy!” said Groszew, who will be honored for 15 years of service at VLANJ’s Dining in the Dark on October 24 during Blindness Awareness Month.
While her children were young, Groszew owned and ran an independent grocery store with her husband. The couple sold the store 7½ years later, and Groszew began looking for a new opportunity. Through family friends, she learned about New Jersey Foundation for the Blind (VLANJ’s former name). In 2004, the nonprofit hired Groszew as a receptionist, and promoted her to assistant program director within a few months.
Groszew underwent intense training as part of VLANJ’s transformation to becoming the only comprehensive vision rehabilitation program for adults in New Jersey. “I was fascinated by spatial reasoning and mobility, and I found that I really loved this field,” she said. “We created some phenomenal programs.”
Groszew feels especially strong about VLANJ’s wellness programs, which enhance participants’ ability to adapt to their new circumstances. “Our wellness programs are so important for building overall well-being,” she said. “Well-being can open you up to everything you need to learn; it goes hand-in-hand with skill-building.”
For example, participants in djembe drumming have to listen intently to follow sound patterns. Not only is the experience relaxing and social, but it helps them develop listening skills that are key to spatial mapping, she said.
When asked about her favorite memories, the Denville resident said all of them are tied to the people she’s met at VLANJ. “They’ve inspired and taught me so much,” she said. Over the years, Groszew has used her musical talent at VLANJ, teaching one-on-one piano lessons and running a choir.
“Linda is the heart of this organization, and has empathy and respect for everyone who walks through the door,” VLANJ Executive Director Kris Marino said. “We’re proud to honor her for 15 years of devoted service.”
Groszew said she is honored to receive VLANJ’s Service Award at Dining in the Dark. Tony Groszew, her husband of 38 years, and some of her children will attend. The mother of five has four grandchildren and a fifth on the way.
Dining in the Dark guests will enjoy a three-course gourmet meal with all their senses — except sight. They’ll wear black eye shades to briefly experience what it’s like for people who are blind or have low vision. The event at The Meadow Wood in Randolph is VLANJ’s major fundraiser of the year.
Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. and include a cocktail hour, art auction, silent auction and live music. A wine pull has been added this year: guests can pull a cork for $20 and will go home with the bottle that matches the number on their cork.Vision Loss Alliance participants will serve as ambassadors, guiding diners.
Dining in the Dark tickets are $125.00 per person, and tables can be reserved for ten guests for $1,000. Click here. Sponsorship opportunities are still available by contacting Director of Development Jennifer Singer at jsinger@vlanj.org or (973) 627-0055 ext. 1323.
Another way to support VLANJ it to purchase bottles of wine for the wine pull. Cambridge Wines in Morristown is donating 15 percent of every purchase, click here for information. Select “store pickup” and VLANJ will collect the donated wines.
MORRIS COUNTY — In advance of National School Safety Week, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Morris County Police Chiefs Association on October 10 unveiled a mobile app called RSVP-3 Morris County through which students can anonymously report threats to school safety and behavior that could disrupt classroom security.
The free RSVP-3 app – which stands for Responsible School Violence Prevention, Preparation, Protection – is one component of a multi-faceted RSVP-3 program that Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon immediately began developing with the Morris County Chiefs of Police Association in response to the February 14, 2018, school shootings at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, that killed 17 people and wounded 17 others.
The creation and activation of the app was announced at a press conference hosted Thursday by Sheriff Gannon, and attended by Morris County Police Chiefs, School Superintendents, Morris County Freeholders, Morris County First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante, and other stakeholders.
The app can be downloaded as follows:
Once the user has entered the passcode, do the following:
The app was developed by Anderson Software’s P3 Campus, a tip reporting solution designed for the educational community. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office received $16,500 in start-up funding for the RSVP-3 application from the Sheriff’s Office CrimeStoppers program. Unlike CrimeStoppers, there are no rewards attached to making tips through RSVP-3.
“The app is a practical tool to help prevent school violence and allow for the sharing of critical information between police, school leaders and mental health providers,” Sheriff Gannon said.
So far, two public school districts in Morris County have committed to forming teams that will help law enforcement agencies investigate the tips. The app is available for anyone – students, parents, teachers and staff – to report a tip about school safety or a troubling school environment. All 36 municipal police departments in Morris County have signed on to the program.
“Sheriff Gannon and the Chief’s Association have again successfully collaborated on the RSVP-3 program in congruence with the recommendation of the United States Secret Service “Operational Guide for Preventing Targeted Violence.” In particular, this app addresses step 3 of their 8-step platform, which recommends the creation of a central reporting mechanism,” said Butler Police Chief Ciro Chimento, president of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association.
Morris County Deputy Freeholder Director Heather Darling expressed support for the entire RSVP-3 program.
Darling said “As a freeholder who is committed to keeping Morris County as safe and appealing as possible, support a proactive measure like this app.”
“We want to be ahead of any violence and we want to reach the person who is making threats, or behaving erratically, or whose grades are plummeting, and get them the help they may need,” said Freeholder Darling.
The app is one element in the overall RSVP-3 initiative that brings together police, educators and mental health professionals in a multidisciplinary approach to stopping violence before it erupts in the classroom.
The Morris County Board of Freeholders and the federal Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) have each contributed funds used to pay for behavioral threat assessment curriculum and the costs of training school leaders and mental health professionals who work with schools.
The curriculum, authored by Sigma Threat Management Associates, guides school leaders, mental health experts and police on how to evaluate and respond to threats to school safety in a scientifically reliable manner.
“We are training people to distinguish between the child who shouts in a moment of anger that he will kill someone and the student whose grades are dropping, who is socially isolating himself or making disturbing comments. We need to be ‘left of bang.’ We want to reach that student – before the bell rings – and get him or her the professional help they may need,” Sheriff Gannon said.
An author of the curriculum, Dr. Marisa Randazzo, in November 2018 trained 75 Morris County police, school and mental health professionals on how to develop assessment and evaluation tools.
Dr. Randazzo is CEO of SIGMA and an international expert on threat assessment, targeted violence and violence prevention. She served for 10 years with the U.S. Secret Service and most recently was its Chief Research Psychologist.
In May 2019, Dr. Randazzo and Dr. Melissa Reeves, the past president of the National Association of School Psychologists and former Chairman of the NASP National School Safety and Crisis Response Committee, trained another 40 teachers and school staff in May 2019 on how to scientifically assess troubling behavior to determine whether school safety is at risk.
Additional training of educators and police on behavioral threat assessment is planned in Morris County this November.
Former Denville Police Chief Christopher Wagner, now the Director of Public Affairs for the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, spoke at the event. Chief Wagner and Steve Forte, Denville’s Superintendent of Schools, said they are longtime proponents of the overall RSVP-3 program.
“I don’t want to send a kid to school with a cell phone because they need to get hold of their mother because there’s been a violent encounter at school,” Chief Wagner said. “I don’t ever want a kid to have to send a note to their parents that ‘I’m scared because there’s a bad person in our school.’”
State Assemblyman Anthony Bucco, also present at the event, noted that he continues to push in the New Jersey Legislature for support for A-5242, a bill that would fund a pilot RSVP-3 program specifically in the counties of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic and Union and the first class cities of Newark and Jersey City – all part of the UASI zone.
Assemblyman Bucco said: “This is about our children. This is about our future. This is about the safety of our schools.”
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.
Contact us: news@parsippanyfocus.com
© 2024 Zoomus Marketing, LLC.
