The following is an open letter from Councilman dePierro to Parsippany residents.
With the Governor and a contingency of Legislators in Trenton about to legalize recreational marijuana in New Jersey, we must address this issue in Parsippany. How do we protect our quality of life, how do we protect our children? What action is best for our Township?
An article in the Daily Record dated March 12, 2019 points out that illicit marijuana locations already exist, will continue to exist, and will definitely expand when New Jersey legalizes recreational marijuana. The article describes “tables overflowing with marijuana products in every form imaginable. Huge jars are half-filled with dried marijuana flowers. Eight-ounces of pot are sold in vacuum-sealed, professionally packaged, odor-proof bags. There are chocolate bars with spoof ‘“Wonka”’ packaging, and home-made rice cereal and Marshmallow treats – some with colorful cereal pieces, some with cookie dough, all with weed baked into them”.
One woman in New Jersey is quoted as saying that she bakes nearly three hundred brownies per month. As she sees it, she will always have customers. She, and others in this business, anticipate that their illicit businesses will flourish when New Jersey legalizes recreational marijuana. People will be flocking to New Jersey from every direction.
While I don’t object to strictly regulated medical marijuana, I strenuously oppose legalizing recreational drugs and allowing its sale in our community. Parsippany is the cross-roads of northern New Jersey and intersects multiple interstate highways. Given our abundance of quiet, peaceful neighborhoods and parks where our children play, do we want people from out of town, or out of state traveling to our township to frequent dispensaries here?
The health and safety of our Township will be at risk and our quality of life will suffer with impaired drivers and additional traffic on our roads, an additional burden to our emergency units, more police action, and possibly more court activity. Many towns have wisely “Opted Out”, to protect their towns.
I would like to introduce an ordinance in Parsippany that would Opt Out of all phases of Marijuana … No growing, No processing, No distributing, and No dispensaries. Before I introduce an ordinance, I would like to hear from our residents.
PARSIPPANY — According to DailyRecord.com, authorities were investigating a shooting at a home on Concord Way, Friday, March 15.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office and Morris County Prosecutor’s Office taped off the scene at a two-story home on Concord Way.
Roughly two dozen unmarked police SUVs were parked on Concord Way, in the Powder Mill section of Parsippany. A resident at the scene stated the police were searching one of the vehicles parked in the driveway.
There is no danger to the public, a Morris County Prosecutor’s Office spokesman said, but no other details were immediately available.
Earlier reports indicate there was a suicide at a home on Concord Way, but details can not be confirmed.
PARSIPPANY — The Women’s Theater Company, a professional theater company in Parsippany presents God of Carnage by Yasmina Reza.
God of Carnage is two sets of parents, one of whose child has hurt the other at a public park. They agree to meet to discuss the matter in a civilized manner?
Starring Nancy Kutzer, Scott McGowan, Brian Parks and Andrea Prendamano.
The show runs from March 22-31, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $25.00 for adults and $20.00 for seniors. To purchase tickets online please click here or call (973) 335-3038.
The Women’s Theater Company is located at the Parsippany Playhouse at 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha. For GPS driving directions, please enter the town of Boonton, 07005.
The Women’s Theater Company’s mission is to provide a fertile environment for the advancement of professional women theater artists and to provide quality theater for the community at large. Through their main stage, educational outreach, and new works development programs, the Women’s Theater Company supports the development of new women artists, promotes new works in the American theater, and provides entertaining and enriching productions for growing audiences. Women’s Theater Company is located at The Parsippany Playhouse, 1130 Knoll Road, Parsippany. For more information contact (973) 335-3038, or email info@womenstheater.org.
The Women’s Theater Company is proud to be a member of the New Jersey Theater Alliance Funding for the Women’s Theater Company has been made possible in part by funds for the Morris Arts through the New Jersey State Council on the Art/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County service providers, probation and police officers and high school students assumed the roles of former jail inmates Friday, March 15 to experience the biases, destitution, social and emotional challenges some inmates have upon discharge back into the community.
Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon at the STAR re-entry simulation on March 15
The re-entry simulation held at the Morris County Public Safety Academy was the first public showcasing of the Successful Transition and Re-Entry (STAR) program started in October as a collaboration between Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon and the county Office of Temporary Assistance within the Department of Human Services.
Both Sheriff Gannon and Morris County Freeholder Heather Darling noted in opening program remarks that the recidivism rate of individuals incarcerated at the Morris County Correctional Facility is about 48 percent – or 48 percent of the same individuals are rearrested and returned to jail. The rate won’t drop without meaningful programs offered to inmates, Sheriff Gannon said.
“This is a holistic approach to a population that needs our support,” he said.
The event, attended by more than 100 people, was organized by STAR case managers Melissa Maney and Sierra McEniry, whose office is based at the Morris County Correctional Facility.
STAR case managers Sierra McEniry and Melissa Maney at their STAR office at the Morris County Correctional Facility
Inmates voluntarily sign up for STAR, where they are assisted, before and after discharge, with access to medical and substance abuse recovery services, housing, Temporary Aid To Needy Families, Medicaid, SNAP, jobs, identification documents, and even Vivitrol injections to help prevent relapses to alcohol or drug dependencies.
“There’s no cookie-cutter method. We’re meeting everyone where they’re at,” McEniry said.
There are 83 current and former inmates in the STAR program in Morris County.
The simulation was facilitated by Kimberlynn Reeves of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware, an expert on re-entry program who has worked with the New Jersey State Parole Board on conducting four of the five re-entry simulations the Parole Board has held.
“We look to hold re-entry simulations in jurisdictions like Morris County that are very progressive and engaged,” said Parole Board administrative analyst Sherry Sandler. “We’re all re-entry stakeholders as citizens and residents of the state.”
STAR client Michael Lester, who spent several months in the Morris County Correctional Facility for his third drunk driving offense, shared a bit of his story with the crowd. He said his first DWI occurred 10 years ago after his wife died and he got another DWI charge for riding an electric bicycle while intoxicated.
Lester said he saw participants laughing and enjoying the simulation but his incarceration wasn’t a joke.
“In real life, when you go to jail, you’re not laughing,” he said. He said Maney and McEniry, the STAR caseworkers, helped him receive Vivitrol, set up dental and medical appointments, and find an apartment.
“They’re very responsive. As a matter of fact, they’re proactive. Good energy,” Lester said.
Reeves took charge of running the simulation in which participants were given “life cards” that gave them a new identity, details of their crimes and sentences, and a schedule of obligations they had to fulfill over a four-week period, including paying probation fees, restitution to victims, undergoing urinalysis, and paying for food, rent and utilities.
Role players moved between stations manned by volunteers posing as service and medical providers, landlords, court officials, pawn shop owners, and other people a former inmate may encounter. Mirroring real life, some volunteers treated the inmate role-players rudely while others were sympathetic or lenient.
Role-players at the various stations would select cards that dictated their next step, such as appearing before a judge for failing a drug test or being forced to pay rent on a room in full or face eviction.
Morris County Sheriff’s Officers played roles too at the simulation, escorting people away from stations to “jail” in a back corner of the room for infractions that included failure to pay a probation fine or speaking disrespectfully to a judge. By the time role players had reached the fourth week of trying to meet obligations, most were in jail – a reflection, Reeves said, of how easily a former inmate can return to jail without assistance.
“I think it’s a cool experience,” said Morris Hills High School senior Francis Babe. His background was as “Wesley,” who spent 10 years in federal prison for bank robbery.
Rewaida Muheisen, who works for the Morris County Office of Temporary Assistance, said the simulation gave her a glimpse of how overwhelming life may be like for a former inmate.
“We see clients all day long and now we can see the effects of what we ask of them,” Muheisen said.
Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp also attended the simulation, saying in opening remarks that he admires Sheriff Gannon’s initiatives to curb crime and reduce drug dependency.
“I’ve never seen innovative efforts before like Sheriff Gannon has done for Morris County,” Prosecutor Knapp said.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Patrol Officer D. Sisco pulled behind a 2008 Honda Accord which was stopped on the shoulder of Route 46 west near Summit Street with its hazard lights activated.
While speaking to the driver, Mr. William Brockman, 23, Dover, he detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath.
He also noted that the vehicle appeared to have been involved in a motor vehicle crash due to the fact the rear bumper was missing, there was visible damage to the front of the vehicle, and both front tires were flat.
After a brief investigation, Mr. Brockman was placed under arrest and transported to Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Headquarters. While there, officers were contacted by Hanover Police Department who advised them that the vehicle was involved in a motor vehicle crash in their township and they were responding to our headquarters to speak to Mr. Brockman.
Mr. Brockman was charged with the following by Parsippany Police Driving While Intoxicated and Reckless Driving.
He was released on his own recognizance pending his court date.
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 — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Patrol Officer Taylor observed a 2016 Nissan Altima idling with its headlights turned on in the parking lot of 838 Route 46, on Friday, March 8 at 11:40 p.m.
When he passed the area again approximately 30 minutes later, he observed the same vehicle still idling with its headlights on.
He pulled into the parking lot and as he approached the vehicle on foot, he detected the odor of burnt marijuana in the area. He made contact with the driver, Mr. Dion Slack, 34, Parsippany.
After a brief investigation, Mr. Slack was placed under arrest for possession of suspected marijuana and transported to Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Headquarters and charged with possession of less than 50 Grams of Marijuana, a Disorderly Persons Offense.
He was released on his own recognizance pending his court date.
CEDAR KNOLLS — Celebrate the changing of the seasons with Employment Horizons. On Tuesday, April 2, Employment Horizons and Chef Eric LeVine, Chef/Partner at Mr. Crabby’s Craft Kitchen & Bar, will be hosting their annual “A Taste of Spring” event at the Birchwood Manor in Whippany. The event starts at 6:00 p.m.
This year, the tasting will feature local craft beverages as well as small plates from chefs/restaurants including Ah’Pizz, Ava’s Cupcakes, Claremont Distilled Spirits, the Columbia Inn & their Food Truck, Cosy Cupboard, Firehouse Subs, Man Skirt Brewery, Mill Six Hemp Vodka, Montclair Brewery, Ninety Acres, Perona Farms, Piattino, Pig & Prince, Playa Bowls, Poor Henry’s, Porto1fino’s, the Proper Wines, and Two Men and an Appetite. Sponsorships include Executive Chef Sponsor Mr. Daniel Collins & Mrs. Christine Conti-Collins, Beverage Sponsor Solix, Inc., and Culinary Sponsors FirstEnergy Foundation, and Mandelbaum Salsburg P.C.
Entertainment and music will be provided by WMTR/WDHA. Click here to reserve your ticket early as seating is limited! The event will feature a silent auction and a 50/50 cash raffle.
All funds raised benefit the Culinary Arts Training Program at Employment Horizons. Their mission includes provision of employment, training and job placement services to people with disabilities in the greater Morris County area.
To attend A Taste of Spring or for more information about the event or Employment Horizons, visit www.ehorizons.org or contact Lisa Montalbano at (973) 538-8822 ext. 212 or lmontalbano@ehorizons.org.
Founded in 1957, Employment Horizons, Inc. is the premier not-for-profit agency that provides high-quality competitively priced services to the business community through its commercial operations. Simultaneously, the mission, to help people with disabilities reach their career objectives, is fulfilled. To learn more click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, partnering with the Randolph Township Board of Education, will be hosting our first public outreach program of 2019 as part of the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General’s 21-21 Community Policing Project. The theme for the program is “Juvenile Justice” and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office will cover Internet and Online Safety.
The 21-21 Community Policing Project was implemented by New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal, with the goal of building strong relationships between law enforcement and the community. As part of the Community Policing Project, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office held three community outreach programs in 2018 which were focused on Officer Involved Shootings, the Opioid Epidemic, and the Immigrant Trust Directive.
This event will be held on Thursday, March 28 at Randolph Middle School, located at 507 Millbrook Avenue, Randolph. The program will run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Supervisor Patrick LaGuerre and Detective Dan Gallagher will provide the presentation. It is a free event and all members of the public are encouraged to attend.
PARSIPPANY — Governor Phil Murph’s budget proposed fiscal year 2020 budget will do nothing to help the middle class and will likely do more to harm the state’s economy said Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce (R- Morris, Essex Passaic).
DeCroce said the governor’s plan to increase spending and taxes and broadening programs, such free county college tuition, will not reduce property taxes — the number one issue for the middle class in New Jersey.
“The governor says repeatedly he wants to help the middle class, but he actions do not back up his statements,” said DeCroce.
“The governor wants the state to spend more money; he wants to expand programs and increase school funding. But the state cannot afford the programs it has now, so how is increasing taxes and spending more money help the middle class?” asked DeCroce.
The assemblywoman noted that under the current state school aid formula – any proposed increases in state aid will go disproportionately to the districts that are already getting the lion’s share of state aid — and the middle class, mostly suburban districts will get no meaningful increase in state aid.
“The reality is that any increase in school aid that would go to Parsippany or West Milford will be so small – and will be offset by increases in salaries and other expenses – that the impact on property taxes will be nil,” said DeCroce. In the proposed FY 2020 budget West Milford will lose $950,000 in state aid, Jefferson will lose $1.19 million while Parsippany will receive a modest $561,000 increase to offset its $150 million school budget – or 0.37 percent of the district’s budget that is supported by local taxpayers.
“The governor is intent on raising taxes and spending more of our tax money without bothering to find out where our tax money is going now. Three times in the last year I have asked the governor to work with me to audit education spending in New Jersey and find out where $28 billion of our tax dollars are going before spending more money. But the governor refuses,” said DeCroce.
Murphy’s budget proposal includes adding $283 million in funding for the Homestead Benefits program which is supposed to offset property taxes. DeCroce said that the program reaches few people in the middle class and offers minimal tax relief. The program cuts off benefits for non-senior households that earn more than $75,000 and senior households that make more than $150,000.
But the average household income in NJ is over $100,000 and the median income is $76,000 – making most new Jersey homeowners ineligible for the Homestead program. DeCroce also noted that the program calculates taxes at their 2006 level, is two years behind in granting the rebates which average only a couple hundred dollars and are paid, not as tax rebate, but as a tax credit.
“The home benefits tax credit program is another smokescreen from this administration to make it appear that they are providing help to the middle class; in reality the Homestead tax credit is inaccessible to the majority of middle-class homeowners in the state,” said DeCroce. ” What the homeowners need is comprehensive tax reform, and that starts with cutting spending, not increasing it.”
Finally, said DeCroce the governor’s plan to “tax the rich” is self-defeating.
New Jersey already has one of the highest corporate tax rates in the country and the highest property taxes and a tax surcharge on those making over $5 million; now the governor wants to add a millionaire’s tax, which, as history shows, has not worked.
DeCroce said taxing high earners, who are often job producers, is counterproductive, as New York State is learning. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo whose state is facing a $2.3 billion budget hole was recently lamenting the fact that increasing taxes on high earners has spawned an exodus of wealthy people from his state
“This is the flip side. Tax the rich, tax the rich, tax the rich,” Cuomo said in a published report last month. “We did. Now, God forbid, the rich leave.”
PARSIPPANY — Macrosoft Inc, has been awarded Gold Certification in the Microsoft Partner Program for the 12th successive year. Microsoft Gold Competency signifies that Macrosoft is an expert in Microsoft technologies and the organization is focused on providing world-class services to its clients on all initiatives.
Owning a Gold Certified Partner status means Macrosoft has access to Microsoft Support 24/7 and is committed to the latest Microsoft technology. “We are extremely proud of sustaining our Gold status for more than a decade in the Microsoft Partner Program. This prominent status provides us access to even more tools to drive results for our clients,” said Dr. Ronald Mueller, CEO of Macrosoft. “The rich set of benefits include Microsoft-related products or services, the direct training and support we receive from Microsoft, which enhances Macrosoft’s competitive position in the market while providing more value to our clients.”
Macrosoft Inc, a leading-edge software design and development organization, headquartered at Two Sylvan Way, has maintained Microsoft Gold Partner status for eleven years in a row, with proven competencies. This year, Macrosoft celebrates 26 years of successful engagements and a growing list of over 400 professionals working for more than 50 exceptional clients.
PARSIPPANY — Senator Joe Pennacchio, Assemblyman Jay Webber, and Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce (all R-26) visited Parsippany High School on Wednesday, March 13 to thank the five senior boys who shoveled their neighbor’s driveway after a snowstorm, ensuring she could be safely transported to dialysis amid the weather.
“We are very proud of this group of senior boys and all of the good that they do. Patrick, Tyler, Amon, Justin and Chris (and many of their friends) have made a commitment to service throughout their four years and have had a tremendous impact on our school and community. This instance is indicative of the type of students, leaders and people they are. They are truly pieces of work, and we’ve been lucky to have them here,” said Dr. Denis Mulroony, Principal of Parsippany High School.
Shoveling a neighbor’s driveway may seem like a simple act of kindness, but in this case – it may have very well saved a woman’s life,” Pennacchio said. “We all know the severe injuries one could suffer from as a result of a slip and fall on an icy day. Without the boys’ help, she may have missed her treatment. Parsippany is a stronger community because of their actions.”
Pennacchio, Webber, and DeCroce presented ceremonial resolutions to Justin Stanton, Patrick Lanigan, Chris Leibfred, Tyler Grieco and Amon Sharafi for their good deeds. Their benevolence gained local, state, and national attention.
“These young men set a standard for all of us to live up to,” said Webber (R-Morris). “They selflessly placed the interest of their neighbor above their own, sacrificing sleep and energy so she could receive life-sustaining medical care. Our gratitude was well earned.”
Their neighbor, Natalie Blair, is awaiting a kidney transplant and requires daily dialysis. On March 4 at 4:00 a.m., the five boys cleared 8 inches of snow from her driveway so an ambulance could transport her to her medical appointment.
“You worry when teenagers sneak out of the house at 4 in the morning,” said DeCroce (R-Morris). “These friends weren’t looking for trouble. They went out in the snow to help a person in need who hadn’t even asked for assistance. The world would be a better place if more people cared this much.”
“These ‘snow angels’ displayed true selflessness,” Pennacchio added. “Justin, Patrick, Chris, Tyler, and Amon have proven that it’s always important to help people in need, no matter the weather. On behalf of our entire community and this Legislature, it is my privilege to thank them for setting an example for our entire community – and the nation.”
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Republican Councilmembers Loretta Gragnani, Michael dePierro and Paul Carifi issued a press release opposing Mayor Soriano’s gradual reduction of the township budget’s reliance on utility surplus. Instead, they supported an immediate transfer of nearly $3 million of fiscal liability to Parsippany taxpayers. Indeed, the transfer of any amount of surplus was deemed by Councilwoman Gragnani to be “a non-starter with the Republican Council.”
After eight years of irresponsible management of Parsippany’s budget and utility surplus, Republican Council incumbents have flip-flopped to serve their own election-year needs. Their politically-expedient change of opinion on this issue will leave Parsippany’s taxpayers holding the bag on a 9% tax increase.
Since the beginning of Councilwoman Gragnani’s term in 2016, $8,655,000 has been transferred from the township’s utility surplus in order to balance the budget. Dating back to 2012, with the support of Council Members Carifi and dePierro, $11,660,000 has been transferred from the utility surplus to balance the budget.
These figures confirm that the dependency on using sewer and water utility funding to balance the Township budget was heavily accelerated by the Barberio administration and the all-Republican Councils of that time frame. Along with the unfunded use of zero-percent tax increases in the Mayoral election years of 2013 and 2017, this practice has led to a compounding drain on Parsippany’s fiscal health.
Mayor Soriano stated, “As Mayor, I have been very vocal about the need to eliminate our dependency on the sewer and water utilities to balance our budget. It is a poor fiscal management practice and puts future Township budgets, and thereby our taxpayers, in jeopardy. In 2018, upon taking office, we reduced the use of utility surplus by $245,000, and we did so again in 2019 by $100,000. These were small reductions, but necessary beginning steps forward.”
Speaking directly to the Republican Council members, the Mayor continued, “Should you and your colleagues wish to further reduce the use of utility surplus in the 2019 proposed budget, I am open to that discussion. Your suggested proposal of eliminating the utility surplus to off-set the current fund by $2,855,000 would result in a property tax increase of 9.26% ($175.86 on the average assessed home) – a significant increase that I am very surprised you would propose.”
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Member Scarano-Debrossy and Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Karen DeChristopher volunteered their time this morning during Parsippany’s IHOP’s ‘National Pancake Day.”
This year, the restaurant will “Flip it Forward” and raise money for kids in need. Customers will have the ability to donate to help children battling critical illnesses during the promotion. Guests will be able to get their free pancakes until to 7:00 p.m. Offer valid for dine in only.
PARSIPPANY — The three Republicans on Parsippany Township’s Council voted to slash Democrat Mayor Michael Soriano’s proposed property tax increase by nearly 40% over the objections of the two Council Democrats, protecting township residents already overburdened by the reckless tax and spend Murphy Administration in Trenton.
Councilman Mike dePierro, Council President Paul Carifi, Jr. and Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani said Mayor Soriano’s second consecutive tax increase budget demonstrated why Parsippany taxpayers can’t afford to have Democrats take control of Township Council this November.
“Elections have consequences and, unfortunately, the result of a Democratic Mayor in town hall and a Democratic Governor in Trenton is that Parsippany taxpayers are under constant assault,” said Councilman Mike dePierro. “I am proud to say that Paul, Loretta and I stuck together, proposed real spending cuts, and significantly reduced the tax bite in this Democratic budget. It’s clearer than ever that the Republican majority on Council is the only thing standing between residents and massive tax hikes in Parsippany.”
On the heels of his proposed 6% property tax increase budget last year, that Republicans then cut in half, Mayor Michael Soriano proposed a 4.72% property tax increase in this year’s budget and was backed up by the Council’s two Democrats, Janice McCarthy and Emily Peterson, who voted against the Republican cuts.
“This administration needs to stop looking at Parsippany taxpayers as an ATM machine for his big government agenda and Hudson County-style patronage hires,” “Elections have consequences and, unfortunately, the result of a Democratic Mayor in town hall and a Democratic Governor in Trenton is that Parsippany taxpayers are under constant assault,” said Council President Carifi, Jr. “We have thirteen positions currently unfilled in township government and government is still functioning just fine. That’s why I made a motion that we not fill those spots, saving taxpayers $862,000 in salaries, benefits and pension payments in the process.”
Councilwoman Gragnani said that on top of Mayor Soriano’s fiscally irresponsible decision to defer $3 million from the water and sewer utility to the general fund – jacking up water rates in the process – another big tax increase budget was a non-starter with the Republican Council.
“Just like Governor Murphy and the Democrats in Trenton, Mayor Soriano apparently thinks local residents aren’t taxed enough and that government is some beast that needs to be fed continually,” said Councilwoman Gragnani. “We disagree. Enough is enough. Government needs to live within its means and stop squeezing taxpayers for every last penny. If the last two years of Murphy and Soriano have shown voters anything, it’s that unchecked Democratic control of our state and town is untenable. It’s critical we maintain a Republican check and balance in Parsippany this November.”
PARSIPPANY — Members of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills joined the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) to participate in Read Across America Day this week.
Members kicked of their “Dr. Seuss Celebrations” by reading to the children at the Parsippany Child Day Care Center on February 27. Each reading age child received their own Dr. Seuss Board book version of “Fox in Socks” and books were also donated to the school library. This was made possible through a generous GFWC Literacy Grant the club was awarded.
Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy members Cathy Haney, Ginny Scala, Marilyn Zarzycki and Marilyn Marion present books at Mt. Tabor Library to Librarian Kristen Comeavx
Donations of Dr. Seuss books were made to the Parsippany Library. Dr. Seuss favors were also handed out at the Lake Hiawatha Branch. Dr. Seuss books were donated to Head Start of Morris County, to supplement their library and Dr. Seuss themed favors were also distributed to the children. Dr. Seuss books were also sent to the General Federations of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) for distribution in the Washington, DC area.
One of GFWC’s Seven Grand Initiatives for its 2018-2020 Administration is for clubs to donate Dr. Seuss books to children in need. March 2 is Read Across America Day, a nationwide observation that marks Dr. Seuss’ birthday and encourages children to celebrate reading.
Promoting literacy can be traced back to GFWC’s roots. Read Across America is an opportunity for GFWC clubs to continue the legacy of sharing books and the love of reading with its community.
Proceeds for this, and other educational projects, are made possible by the funds raised at the club’s annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic Fundraiser. This year’s 38th Annual Tee Off for Education Golf Classic & Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, July 9, at the Knoll Country Club West. Contact Marilyn Z., Tee Off for Education Chairperson, at (973) 539-3703 or wcpth.golf.outing@gmail.com for more information.
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of NJSFWC, which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. General Meetings are held the fourth Monday of each month from September to April at 7:00 p.m. at the Lake Parsippany Rescue & Recovery, 100 Centerton Drive. For more information e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, click here or follow the club on FACEBOOK.
PARSIPPANY — Susan G. Komen North Jersey announced that Dun & Bradstreet, Steven Bitterman, Principal, Gensler and Summit Medical Group will be recognized at its 2019 Pink Tie Party on Friday, March 22, at The Grove in Cedar Grove. This year’s signature event, chaired by Michael Karlis of Bridgewater will also feature special guest Amy Robach, Co-Anchor for ABC News’ 20/20 and author of The New York Times bestseller BETTER. Komen North Jersey is delivering a strong message of HOPE with this year’s fundraiser—hope that the funds they raise for life-saving community programs and breakthrough national research will help get them closer to their vision, a world without breast cancer.
“This year’s honorees all have a long-standing commitment to the community and to Komen North Jersey,” says Kelly E. Nagle, Executive Director of Komen North Jersey. “Each has consistently demonstrated a level of engagement that is remarkably comprehensive and multi-faceted. They not only support our mission financially, but they embrace our mission by infusing a passion for the fight against breast cancer within their corporate and personal networks. We are deeply grateful for all they do to help us bring hope to the women and men in our communities.”
Amy Robach
As Co-Anchor for ABC News’ 20/20 and Breaking News Anchor for Good Morning America, Amy Robach has traveled nationally and internationally to cover major news events, and has interviewed countless newsmakers and celebrities. But the most difficult and illuminating journey of her life was when she said the words “I have breast cancer” on live television in November of 2013. Just weeks earlier, her producers had asked her to get an on-air mammogram to highlight Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Her first instinct was to say no—there was no history of breast cancer in her family, and she was only forty years old. She agreed, realizing that she might save a life, but never imagined that the life she saved would be her own: tests revealed malignant tumors in her breast, and she immediately underwent a bilateral mastectomy, followed by six months of chemotherapy treatments.
In her New York Times bestseller BETTER: How I Let Go of Control, Held On To Hope, and Found Joy in My Darkest Hour, Robach speaks candidly about how her illness affected her family life and her marriage, tapped into her deepest fears and strengths, and transformed her in ways she never could have imagined. With honesty, humility and humor, Amy connects with those who have struggled with any kind of sudden adversity, and shares valuable wisdom about the power of the human spirit to endure the worst—and find the way to better. “When I finished my last round of chemo, I realized that I was joining the ranks of 2.8 million U.S. women who are breast cancer survivors,” says Robach. “I plan on living each day to the very fullest, thankful and grateful. And I want to encourage all the women and men out there who are still in the thick of it, who have yet to fight this fight: you can do it; you can get through this, one step at a time.”
Corporate Honoree Dun & Bradstreet first came on board as a partner for the Affiliate’s annual Race for the Cure in 2010. Since then, the company’s engagement has grown in its depth and commitment to the Komen North Jersey mission. They have provided significant financial support for the Affiliate’s major fundraisers, and the level of participation by their employees in their charitable endeavors is exceptional. Their Race team, For My Daughter, created in honor of Dun & Bradstreet employee Marcy Prendes, a 10-year breast cancer survivor, has been one of the top Race teams every year, and employees, friends and family members have collectively raised more than $150,000. The Company’s employees also volunteer on Komen North Jersey committees and participate in numerous events including the annual Pink Tie Party (for which Dun & Bradstreet has been a major sponsor since 2015).
Michele Caselnova
Michele Caselnova, Chief of Staff to the President and Chief Communications Officer for Dun & Bradstreet, has been a member of the Board of Trustees since July 2013, serving as Vice President in 2016, Interim President in 2017, and currently as President. She also served as the Pink Tie Party Co-Chair in 2017 and 2018. In addition to its direct support of Komen North Jersey’s work in local communities, Dun & Bradstreet embraces the importance of breast health education and offers Breast Health Education events in the workplace on a regular basis. “Dun & Bradstreet and its employees have happily supported Susan G, Komen North Jersey with time, talent and fund raising to further life-saving community programs and breakthrough national research,” says Caselnova. “We thank our employees for their support and for joining the Komen North Jersey team on its journey to realize a world without breast cancer.”
This year’s Medical Honoree, Summit Medical Group, New Jersey’s premier multi-specialty medical practice, provides patients with more convenient and affordable care for every stage of life with all ancillary services, including wellness, cancer treatment, disease management, surgical services, behavioral health and management and support for chronic conditions. SMG has sponsored a Komen North Jersey Race for the Cure team since the Race’s inception in 2008.
Summit Medical Group: Komen Race 2018
Over the years, SMG’s team has become the Race’s largest, boasting more than 100 participants in 2018. SMG has made significant contributions to Komen North Jersey with support for the Race for the Cure, the annual Pink Tie Party, and the Women’s Wellness Expo. They also demonstrate a deep and genuine commitment to the communities they serve, providing access to breast care, treating patients every day, and helping people fight breast cancer.
With the talent and dedication of its providers and a new state-of-the art 130,000-square-foot outpatient cancer facility in Florham Park, SMG is committed to bringing the highest level of cancer care to patients in northern New Jersey. SMG provides comprehensive cancer care including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, interventional radiology, infusion, imaging and access to clinical trials. “Over the years, Summit Medical Group has mobilized teams to raise significant funds for breast cancer,” says Jeffrey Le Benger, MD, Chairman and CEO of Summit Medical Group. “We share Komen North Jersey’s goals to bring attention to the fight against breast cancer, celebrate breast cancer survivorship and honor those who have battled courageously.”
Steve Bitterman Gensler
Individual Honorees are chosen for their exceptional volunteerism and enduring commitment to the mission of the Komen North Jersey organization. This year’s Individual Honoree, Steven Bitterman, Studio Director, Principal and Northeast Regional Life Sciences Practice Leader for Gensler in Morristown, has a very personal connection to breast cancer: his wife Robin is a seven-year breast cancer survivor. Bitterman says that his wife’s diagnosis redefined the fight against breast cancer for him. His company, Gensler, had launched their first Susan G. Komen Rally for the Cure golf tournament in 2006, but had taken a hiatus from the event prior to Bitterman joining the company in 2009. When he heard about it, he advocated strongly to bring back their Rally for the Cure. “It wasn’t just because I’m a golfer,” says Bitterman. “My wife is a survivor, and I believe that my grandmother also had breast cancer. I wanted to do something to make a difference; this disease affects so many people.”
Since the first Gensler Rally for the Cure, the company has produced nine events that to date have raised nearly $340,000 for the two New Jersey Susan G. Komen Affiliates. Bitterman encourages staff, clients, friends and family to participate, and the event continues to grow. Last year, there were more than 200 registered participants and the event raised a record $65,000. “I’m truly honored to be recognized,” says Bitterman. “But I don’t do this alone; it has become an incredible team effort. Everyone in the company stands behind it because we are all affected by breast cancer in one way or another.”
The honorees, of course, are the “stars” of the evening, but it wouldn’t be a party without the requisite fun-factor and fabulous opportunities for giving. Elegant cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be a prelude to an exquisitely-prepared dinner, intermingled with a lot of dancing to the sounds of Tribeca Rhythm and DJ Sizzling Sounds. But the real essence of the Pink Tie Party is about giving generously, and there will be lots of chances for guests to “be part of the cure.” There’s an abundance of coveted silent auction items, and pre-event bidding is available online at bidpal.net/ptp for those who would like to get a jump on those bids.
All in all, it promises to be a memorable, “feel good” kind of night, thanks in no small part to the generosity of this year’s Pink Tie Party sponsors: Dun & Bradstreet and TAPinto, (Funding the Cures), Summit Medical Group and RWJBarnabas Health (Partner in the Promise), Atlantic Health, C.R. Bard, Inc., Carol Delia & Kate Flannery, The Harbison Family, Pfizer, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Wakefern Food Corporation/ShopRite Supermarkets (Pledging Hope).
PARSIPPANY — IHOP, 792 Route 46 West, will be giving out free short stack of buttermilk pancakes on Tuesday, March 12 to celebrate National Pancake Day.
This year, the restaurant will “Flip it Forward” and raise money for kids in need. Customers will have the ability to donate to help children battling critical illnesses during the promotion. Guests will be able to get their free pancakes from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Offer valid for dine in only.
Every year IHOP gives away free pancakes around National Pancake Day to celebrate the day. The pancakes are completely free with no purchase required, although a donation to Children’s Miracle Network is encouraged.
When you visit your local IHOP for National Pancake Day at IHOP, you’ll get a free short stack (3) of their famous buttermilk pancakes.
Although not required, you will be asked to give a donation to the Children’s Miracle Network in any amount you’d like in exchange for your pancakes. This money goes to local hospitals in your area and provides life-saving medical treatments and procedures for children in need.
Their 2019 goal is to reach $5 million in donations, and all donations for the pancakes will go straight to the charity.
Some of the restaurants will also be inviting guests to make a donation to get a wall icon of the Children’s Miracle balloon to publicly pledge support to Children’s Miracle Networks. Some of the restaurants will be giving a discount coupon to be used on a future business with the purchase of a wall icon.
The annual IHOP National Pancake Days have been going on for 13 years with more than $30 million being donated to organizations like Children’s Miracle Network, Shriners Hospitals for Children, and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed new member Jennifer Peel, M&T Bank. M&T Bank is located at 240 Baldwin Road.
Board Members Alan Golub, Esq., Nicolas Limanov, Frank Cahill presented a membership plaque and welcomed Jennifer during a recent breakfast meeting at Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce offices.
M&T Bank is one of the top 20 full-service U.S.-based commercial banks, with 17,000 employees and a long history of community-focused banking. Founded in 1856, M&T provides commercial, retail, business, investment, mortgage and professional banking services through more than 750 branches and 1,800 ATMs throughout New York, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Connecticut, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia. With a longstanding tradition of careful, conservative and consistent management, M&T is one of the best performing regional banks in the nation.
• Of the largest 100 banks operating in 1983, only 23 remain today. Among the remaining, M&T ranks 1st in stock price growth
• During the financial crisis, M&T was one of just two commercial banks out of 20 in the S&P 500 that did not reduce its dividend
• M&T has been profitable for 166 consecutive quarters—more than 41 straight years
You can reach Jennifer Peel by calling (973) 402-5633 or by clicking here to email.
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 — On Friday, March 8, students from Parsippany High School enjoyed a complimentary meal at their local Applebee’s as a reward for their actions the previous week.
On Monday, March 4, Seniors Tyler Grieco, Chris Leibfred, Justin Stanton, Patrick Lanigan and Amon Sharafi relinquished the extra hours of sleep they might have gotten due to a Snow Day school closure to shovel out a neighbor who had a medical treatment at 6:00 a.m.
The boys cleared away the eight inches of snow as the sun rose, and their neighbor was able to get to her treatment. Applebee’s of Parsippany was happy to treat the valiant young men to a delicious dinner as a thank-you for their execution of this good deed.
PARSIPPANY — As the sign says on the front of Bed Bath & Beyond, they will be closing since their lease expired. This is the only area Bed Bath & Beyond location that is closing. Currently they are having storewide sales.
The store hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The East Hanover store located at 180 Route 10 West, has store hours 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Bed Bath & Beyond says their lease is expiring
According to store officials, the Parsippany location is expected to remain open through mid-June, although an exact closing date has not been set.
There is also a Rockaway, Totowa and Kinnelon store all located within ten miles of the Parsippany location.
Earlier this year, Modell’s Sporting Goods also closed in the Arlington Shopping Plaza, although the location is still listed on their website. K-Mart closed in November 2017.
Good Year closed leaving 7,000 square feet vacant, although Paul Miller has a temporary lease on that location.
According to signs in the window at 772 Route 46, former ShopRite Liquors location, AdvantEdge Builders will be coming soon.
Advantage Edge Builders is coming soon to Arlington Plaza Shopping CenterSigns in the window of the former ShopRite Liquors, 772 Route 46, Arlington Shopping Plaza
The property is owned by Garden Commercial Properties.
