Boiling Springs Bank donates to Parsippany Food Pantry and PBA 131
PARSIPPANY — Boiling Springs Bank located at 66 North Beverwyck Road donated money to two Parsippany organizations through their Community Outreach Program.
Boiling Springs Bank donated $2,000 to Parsippany Food Pantry and $250 Parsippany PBA #131.
Sergeant Brian Conover, Treasurer of PBA Local #131, and member Patrolman Greg Bloete accepted the donation from Branch Manager Silvia Cooper.
Michele Picone, Director, Department of Human Services, received the donation for the Parsippany Food Pantry.
Pennacchio & Diegnan Introduce ‘Mallory’s Law’ to Toughen NJ’s Anti-Bullying Laws
MORRIS COUNTY — Following the tragic death of Mallory Rose Grossman, a 12-year-old Rockaway student who committed suicide after suffering from bullying, Senators Joe Pennacchio and Patrick Diegnan have introduced bipartisan legislation to standardize and strengthen New Jersey’s anti-bullying laws.
Their legislation, “Mallory’s Law,” represents a comprehensive approach to prevent and respond to bullying in New Jersey, by increasing the repercussions and ensuring school officials take preventative actions before tragedy strikes.
“My heart breaks for Mallory’s family,” Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) said. “We must take action to ensure no one ever goes through this again. ‘Mallory’s Law’ combats the harassment and intimidation that can lead children to take their own lives. This bill would also require school and county officials to address bullying, before it gets out of control. Increasing transparency and accountability, while standardizing this process, will help us end the culture of bullying.”
Mallory Grossman was bullied on school grounds and harassed via Snapchat and text messages relentlessly, before she took her own life on June 14, 2017.
Mallory’s parents have turned their grief into action, by starting “Mallory’s Army,” a national movement to save other children from the devastating effects of bullying. On December 18, 2017 Senator Pennacchio and his colleagues in the State Senate honored Mallory’s Army for their efforts.
“Mallory Rose Grossman’s story will help others,” said Seth and Dianne Grossman, the parents of Mallory Grossman. “Her journey has been the inspiration for many in New Jersey to bring change to the way bullying issues are handled in and out of school. We are grateful to Senator Joe Pennacchio, Senator Patrick Diegnan and all of the administrative teams for working with us on ‘Mallory’s Law.’ It’s a law we believe is in the best interest of all of our children, schools and families.”
“Many people say that bullying doesn’t happen or that kids just need toughen up. I can tell you that bullying is still happening in our schools, and it is causing an enormous amount of psychological distress to our students,” Senator Patrick Diegnan (D-18) said. “Our society struggles with handling mental health issues. We especially have to fix these issues when they affect young students in our schools. Unfortunately, we are too late for Mallory, a student who committed suicide after intense bullying. It shouldn’t take the loss of life for us to act.”
Pennacchio and Diegnan’s legislation would reinforce and intensify the state’s “Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights.” The legislation was signed into law after cyber harassment led to the tragic suicide of Rutgers freshman Tyler Clementi in 2010.
Although New Jersey’s “Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights” is considered to be one of the toughest anti-bullying laws in the nation, students have continued to be victimized to the point of suicide.
“Mallory’s Law” would expand the school bullying reporting and notification process. This bill would forward all accounts of bullying to the executive county superintendent and the parents of students involved in the incident.
Cyber harassment has further-intensified bullying, with children now being badgered at home through their cell phones and computers.
Recently, Paterson fifth grader Samara Moreno committed suicide after being bullied at school. She was 11-years-old.
“The current anti-bullying laws on the book must do more to protect our kids in an era where people are instantly accessible via social media platforms like Snapchat and iMessage,” Senator Pennacchio added. “’Mallory’s Law’ will ensure the bully, parents, and the school are made well aware of any incidents, and that proper disciplinary actions are taken before we lose more young lives.”
“Mallory’s Law” would ensure that parents are more involved when their child is accused of bullying. The bill would also direct New Jersey school districts to provide means for parents to complete an online form to report any occurrences of bullying.
The legislation would also require that each school district’s anti-bullying policy must include specific penalties for bullying. Any proven act of bullying would lead to the incident being added to the student’s permanent record.
Under the bill, bullies found culpable of harassment more than three times must attend anti-bullying training with their parents. Law enforcement will also be notified to see if the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice has been violated.
Victims of bullying are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.
Studies have also shown that children who are bullied by their parents, or witness their parents engaging in bullying perpetration are more likely to be bullies themselves, which demonstrates the need for this legislative effort to ensure parents are held accountable if their child bullies a fellow student.
A civil liability may be imposed on the parent of a bully who demonstrates blatant disregard of supervising their child, if their child has been judged to be delinquent of harassment or cyber harassment.
“The State of New Jersey must take every appropriate action to reduce bullying by increasing the strength and transparency of the reporting process,” Senator Pennacchio added. “Enacting ‘Mallory’s Law’ will bring us one step closer to ensuring bullying will not be tolerated in any school in the Garden State.”
Laura Fortgang Announces Candidacy For State Assembly
MORRIS COUNTY — “I’ve lived in this district for 24 years; I’ve raised my family here, and I’ve seen some worrying changes. We’ve watched our taxes go up and the return on that investment diminish. New Jersey has the finest public schools in the country; we have developed life-saving medicines; our smart and tough workforce is part of the largest economic engine in the country, but thanks to a broken and entrenched system in Trenton, families like mine keep losing ground. My whole career I’ve worked with individuals and C-suite executives in fortune 100 companies, looking at the obstacles, seeing a problem from all sides, and working together to find the best path forward. I’ll bring these skills to the Assembly to make sure New Jersey continues to be a wonderful place to raise a family, and where people of all ages can afford to stay and thrive,” said Laura Fortgang.
Including Parsippany and parts of Essex, Morris, and Passaic Counties, the 26th is currently represented in the New Jersey Assembly by Betty Lou DeCroce (R- Parsippany-Troy Hills) who was appointed in 2012 to fill the seat after the death her husband, and Jay Webber (R-Morris Plains) who was defeated in November in his bid for Congress by Mikie Sherrill.
Sherrill campaign manager, Mollie Binotto has signed on as Campaign Chairwoman for the Fortgang campaign, bringing not only her skill but her deep knowledge of the district which is almost entirely contained in Sherrill’s congressional district.
Chairman of the Morris County Democratic Committee Chip Robinson said this is the year to make changes in Trenton for his county, “Laura Fortgang is not only a determined and effective community leader, but she’s a wonderful person. I’m thrilled with the caliber and qualifications of our LD 26 candidates this year.”
Mayor Michael Soriano of Parsippany-Troy Hills the largest township in the district, stated, “I’m incredibly excited to support Laura Fortgang for State Assembly in 2019. Laura’s professional background and tireless energy will be a great contribution to our Democratic Majority Caucus and, I know that Laura will be a committed partner to Parsippany at the state level.”
Scholarship Targets Students with Disabilities
MORRIS COUNTY — Scholarship applications are now being accepted for students with disabilities who are graduating this year. The Alliance of Private Special Education Schools of Northern New Jersey, a group of more than 40 state-approved specialized schools serving students with a wide range of disabilities in northern and central New Jersey is proud to sponsor the scholarship.
Understanding the range of barriers that students with disabilities often face, the Alliance is committed to helping students advance their options beyond high school graduation. Scholarship criteria encourages continuing education and training, increased independence, goal setting, and promotes community integration and the use of local resources and supports.
The Connections for the Future Scholarship provides up to $1,000 in financial support and recognition for graduating north Jersey, public school students with disabilities.
Last year, two graduates were awarded the funds and continued their studies in visual arts and special education.
To learn more about and apply for the scholarships, click here. Application deadline for the scholarships is March 1.
The winners will be presented with the scholarships on April 6 at the Alliance’s Annual Spring Conference taking place at the College of Saint Elizabeth in Morristown. The conference is free of charge and open to all community members who are interested in learning more about strategies for advocacy and systems change and will feature keynote speaker, Assemblywoman Mila Jasey.
The Alliance of Private Special Education Schools of Northern New Jersey is a nonprofit organization comprised of state-approved private schools for students with disabilities. The Alliance provides important resources, advocacy assistance, and information for parents, educators, professionals, and others who are interested in helping students receive the special education services they need. The website features a unique “school finder” tool to help visitors locate an appropriate school program. Resources and informative articles on special education topics can be found by clicking here. Families and professionals can also call for information and advocacy support at (973) 407-0596.
Outstanding Citizens to be Honored by Boy Scouts of America
PARSIPPANY — Boy Scouts of America, Patriots’ Path Council will be honoring local citizens at the Third Annual Parsippany Good Scout Award Dinner to be held on the evening of Tuesday, March 12 at the Hanover Manor in East Hanover at 6:30 p.m.
This year’s honorees are Catherine “Cathy” Cerbo, Silvia E. Cooper, Patrolman Remo D’Alessandro, Stephen J. Priola, Rev. Msgr. Herbert K. Tillyer, P.A., and Randy F. Tortorello.
The event recognizes these six outstanding citizens for their community service, as evidenced by their leadership and interests within the Parsippany community, and for their embodiment of the values of the century old Scout Oath and Law in their personal and professional lives. The event co-chairs are a 2018 Parsippany Good Scout Award Recipient Carol Tiesi, and Robert Peluso.
Cathy Cerbo is Past President of Parsippany Women’s Club and part of a longtime family owned business in Parsippany, Cerbo Lumber & Hardware. Silvia Cooper is the Branch Manager of the Boiling springs Savings Bank – Parsippany Branch and is an active member or Kiwanis Club – Parsippany. Patrolman Remo D’Alessandro heads Community Outreach for the Parsippany Police Department. Stephen J. Priola is the owner of P.J. Priola Parsippany Funeral Service. Rev. Msgr. Herbert K. Tillyer, P.A. has served Saint Peter the Apostle Catholic Church for twenty-five years. Randy F. Tortorello has been an active member of the Parsippany Historic Sites Committee, currently serving as the coordinator; he also owns his own interior design company, Randy Tortorello Interiors.
Parsippany is a part of the Boy Scouts of America, Patriots’ Path Council which serves 17,000 youth in over 400 Scouting units in communities throughout Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Sussex, and Union Counties.
For more information on Scouting, attending the event, and sponsoring the program journal, contact George Hemenetz, Development Director, at (973) 765-9322 ext. 235 and/or george.hemenetz@scouting.org.
You can sign up for the event or donate by clicking here.
Get Your Fill of Romance at the Parsippany Library
PARSIPPANY — Find your next great romance at the Friends of the Parsippany Library’s February book sale at the Parsippany Main Library, 449 Halsey Road. At just a dollar for four paperbacks or two hardcovers, these gently pre-loved books are priced for shoppers to stock up. The wide selection includes everything from cozy love stories to racier reads.
An added benefit is that your purchase gives back to the library, as all proceeds from the book sale are donated to the library for the purchase of new materials and programs.
Looking for other ways to show your love and appreciation for the library? Follow the Friends of the Parsippany Library on Facebook at @FriendsoftheParsippanyLibrary or check out the Friends’ website by clicking here. Questions can be directed to parsippanyfriends@gmail.com.
AG Grewal Speaks at Prosecutor’s Office on Immigrant Trust Directive and Bias
MORRIS COUNTY — On Tuesday, February 5 New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal spoke to approximately 125 attendees and community leaders of Morris County and Sussex County concerning his recently issued Immigrant Trust Directive. Attorney General Grewal explained the directive, then fielded questions from those in the audience.
This two hour community outreach event was held at the Presbyterian Church of Morristown Parish House as part of Attorney General Grewal’s 21-21 Community Policing Project, in which all 21 County Prosecutor’s Offices conduct educational programs for the communities in which they serve. The event was hosted by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General in partnership with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office.
Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp and Sussex County Prosecutor Francis Koch provided welcoming remarks to those in attendance before AG Grewal’s presentation. Deputy Attorney General Joseph Walsh provided the audience with an in-depth analysis of the functions and execution of the Immigrant Trust Directive following the opening remarks and Attorney General Grewal’s question and answer period. His presentation explained how the Immigrant Trust Directive will function in New Jersey upon its effective date of March 15, 2019. Walsh took questions following his presentation. The audience was eager to clarify some of the aspects of the Directive, and many questions were answered by DAG Walsh.
Also in attendance was Rachel Apter, Director of the Division on Civil Rights. Director Apter provided remarks on the second portion of the program, Bias Crimes and Incidents. The second half of the program consisted of a panel discussion moderated by Prosecutor Knapp focused on Bias Crimes and Incidents.
The panel was comprised of NJ OAG Training & Outreach Liaison David Leonardis, Middlesex County Department of Corrections Chief Investigator David D’Amico, FBI Special Agent Vernon Addison, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Supervisor Patrick LaGuerre, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Samantha DeNegri, and Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office Assistant Prosecutor Donald Cox. The discussion covered the differences between bias crimes and incidents, law enforcement’s procedures in investigating bias crimes and incidents, and the legal aspects in charging those types of crimes.
The combination of state and federal employees on the panel provided the audience with the opportunity to obtain as much information as possible. Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp said, “I would like to thank Attorney General Grewal, Prosecutor Koch and all of our partners in this event for ensuring its success.
We were thrilled to see so many community members in attendance. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office will continue to host outreach programs with the goals of further educating the community on law enforcement and to help the public better understand the duties and obligations of police and prosecutors”. Sussex County Prosecutor Francis Koch stated: “It was a pleasure and honor to co-host this important public forum with the Attorney General’s Office and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Public outreach events such as this are critical to educate the public and to foster trust, and establish better and more cooperative relationships between all community members and law enforcement. This event was a success in all regards and I look forward to continuing with community outreach programs.”
Meet Earl; he is waiting to go home with you
PARSIPPANY — Meet Earl! Named after a relaxing cup of tea, his name says a lot about his personality!
Earl is nine years old and was recently rescued from an inner-city municipal shelter after they found him as a stray tied to a fence. Don’t let that make you sad though, this happy senior is now ready to find his forever family!
At only 47 lbs, he is a pint-sized cup of goodness. His tail NEVER stops wagging and he absolutely loves everyone he meets. While he is a more ~distinguished~ gentleman, he is still full of life and energy. Earl loves going for walks, eating bully sticks, and giving lots of kisses during snuggle time. He’s a great mix of fun and cuddly!
Earl would be great in a home with young children as he is tolerant and very easygoing. He’d prefer a home without cats but he can live with another doggy (or two!). He is potty-trained, crate-trained, and walks great on leash.
Earl suffers from IBD but not the kind that makes him have to go to the bathroom more than other dogs. His body doesn’t absorb the nutrients from his food and therefore he is a bit underweight and his skin isn’t in great shape. Earl is currently on new meds and is improving every day! He is also deaf but doesn’t let that stop him at all! He does not get spooked or scared due to his deafness and, since he is always right by his foster’s side, it’s easy to get his attention.
If you’re looking for a sweet, relaxed guy who’d love to spend his golden years pleasing and loving you, apply to adopt Earl today!
If you are interested in adopting Earl, please fill out an application by clicking here.
Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Instagram by clicking here.
Like Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.
CCM Trustees Welcome New Member Maria Aprile
MORRIS COUNTY — Maria Aprile, of Randolph, recently was appointed to the Board of Trustees at County College of Morris.
Appointed by the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Aprile, a CPA and certified fraud examiner, retired from CohnReznick on February 1, following a long and successful career. She was a partner at the firm, which is one of the largest accounting firms in the nation. At CohnReznick, she worked with businesses in real estate trades, hedge fund management companies and high net worth individuals.
Prior to joining CohnReznick, she worked at Glickman and Company CPAs and with no prior public accounting experience was invited to become a partner. Her other previous positions include serving as an accounting manager at Staten Island Cable TV Company and as an analyst for Barclay’s Bank International in New York.
She has served on numerous nonprofit boards including the National Association of Women Business Owners, Industrial and Commercial Real Estate Women, and the Academy of Holy Angels. She is a former president of Executive Women Golf, Northern New Jersey Chapter.
Aprile earned her B.S. in Accounting from St. John’s University and her MBA from the University of Phoenix.
Bucco school security bill signed into law
TRENTON — Legislation providing for the installation of panic buttons and emergency lights in public schools to alert authorities in the case of attacks and emergencies was signed by Governor Phil Murphy today.
The bill (A764) is named in honor of Alyssa Alhadeff, a 14-year-old killed in the Parkland High School shooting last year. She and her family lived in Bergen County until a few years ago.
“This is simply about making schools safer and saving lives,” said Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco (R-Morris). “With the push of a button, teachers or administrators can immediately report an incident to law enforcement.”
The alarm, which would not be audible within the school building, must be directly linked to local law enforcement and immediately transmit a signal or message to the authorities upon activation.
“The amount of time it takes to report and respond to an emergency can mean the difference between life and death,” continued Bucco. “The sooner police are notified, the quicker they can respond.”
Congresswoman Sherrill accepting intern applications to start February 18
PARSIPPANY — The Office of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill is now accepting intern applicants for the Spring 2019 semester. Responsibilities may include greeting constituents, processing constituent correspondence, tracking legislation, attending hearings/briefings, and conducting research. Candidates should have strong research and writing skills.
Applicants must be full-time undergraduate or graduate students who are able to receive course credit for the internship, and available for 15 to 20 hours a week.
Internships are available in both the Parsippany and Washington offices and will start the week of February 18.
All interested individuals should submit an application by clicking here.
Internships for Summer 2019 will follow at a later date.
Parsippany Phoenix LaCrosse season is now open
PARSIPPANY — Registration for the Spring 2019 Parsippany Phoenix season is now open. They have teams for boys and girls in third to eighth grades. The season starts late February/early March and runs into the middle of June. Teams typically practice two to three times a week.
As always the goal is to give the players a chance to learn the fundamentals of lacrosse and the positive impact of teamwork and good sportsmanship on and off the field through a fun, positive coaching environment.
Get involved in the fastest growing sport in the country and be part of the fun the game of lacrosse offers.
Click here to learn more and to register.
State Police Reminds Parents to be Diligent Against Online Predators
NEW JERSEY — Colonel Patrick Callahan and the New Jersey State Police participated in the global initiative, Safer Internet Day, which is a campaign aimed to raise awareness about the dangers posed to children by online predators.
The New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) is 1 of 61 task forces nationwide, which are comprised of more than 4,500 federal, state, and local agencies. The N.J. ICAC Task Force consists of more than 60 law enforcement partners including the Office of the Attorney General.
Over the last three years, New Jersey has experienced a dramatic increase in child-exploitation related incidents:
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- Investigations increased from 855 to 1700
- CyberTipline complaints (the mechanism the public uses to report ICAC incidents) increased from 2,352 to 4,158
- Arrests increased from 143 to 300
- Internet safety presentations increased from 170 to 350
“Safer Internet Day is an important opportunity to remind parents to speak openly with their children about the hidden dangers of the internet,” said Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal. “Parents need to warn their children that the people they encounter on social media, gaming sites and chat apps may not be who they seem. Child predators are increasingly using these media platforms to locate and groom children for their sinister purposes, and parents must teach their children not to share personal information or pictures with strangers online.”
“In the past, parents would have to educate their children about the dangers of talking to strangers while walking to school or playing at parks or playgrounds, but unfortunately today’s predators can reach children while they are seemingly safe inside their home,” said Colonel Patrick Callahan of the New Jersey State Police. “The N.J. ICAC Task Force will never cease to aggressively root out online predators, but they cannot do it alone. Parents need to monitor the online activity of their children and educate them about the dangers that social media, games and other computer applications pose.”
Here are some tips for parents according to “Social Media and Teen Anxiety” from the Harvard School of Education:
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- Be mindful that through likes and follows, teens are getting actual data on how much people like them and their appearance
- Social media-induced stressors:Seeing people posting about events to which you haven’t been invited
Feeling pressure to post positive and attractive content about yourself
Feeling pressure to get comments and likes on your posts
Having someone post things about you that you cannot change or control - Parents need to keep in mind that it’s probably not just social media that’s making their teens anxious — it’s the normal social stressors that these platforms facilitate, albeit at a different size and scale
- If your teen seems irritable or overwhelmed by social media, pay attention to what specifically is causing those feelings
For more information, parents can visit www.missingkids.com for resources and can call the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Unit at (609) 584-5051 ext. 5624.
Parsippany Council to hold agenda meeting
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Paul Carifi, Jr., is reminding residents of the upcoming regular council meeting on Tuesday, February 5 starting at 7:00 p.m. Click here for a copy of the proposed agenda.
The public is invited to attend all meetings. A portion of each meeting will be set aside for public comment. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings. Ending time is approximate.
Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the American with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. Please call (973) 263-4351 to make a request for an auxiliary aid.
Governor Murphy Signs Landmark Legislation Raising Minimum Wage to $15 Per Hour
TRENTON — Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation that will raise New Jersey’s minimum wage to $15.00 per hour by 2024. The bill (A-15), sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, will grow the economy and raise wages for over one million New Jersey workers, giving them a foothold in the middle class.
“For far too long, too many of our fellow New Jerseyans have been struggling to survive on wages that have not kept up with the cost of living,” said Governor Murphy. “I am incredibly proud to sign legislation that raises the minimum wage to $15.00 per hour, ensuring that the most vulnerable among us will have the means to put food on the table, while growing our economy and addressing priorities of the small business community. I thank Senate President Sweeney, Speaker Coughlin, and thousands of advocates and community leaders throughout our state for their unwavering commitment to making this goal a reality.”
“In New Jersey there is no way a family can survive on $8.85 an hour. Fair wages are about paying people enough to afford the rising costs of healthcare, education and the basic necessities in life,” said Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, who also serves as Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs. “New Jersey has made a historic decision today that will help raise over a million working families out of poverty while boosting the economy. I proudly stand by Governor Murphy as he signs a $15.00 minimum wage into law.”
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano said “More money in employees pockets means more money is being spent in Parsippany restaurants and retails stores. It’s going to boost our local economy, and it’s going to help New Jersey continue to develop a thriving small business culture.”
“Our goal of reaching a $15.00 minimum wage will now become a reality. A minimum wage should be a living wage,” said Senate President Sweeney. “This is a progressive plan that will provide greater economic fairness for minimum wage workers, helping to improve their standard of living and their quality of life. We can now achieve greater economic fairness by closing the wealth gap that has separated segments of society.”
“I am proud to join Governor Murphy and Senate President Sweeney during this remarkable day to celebrate our minimum wage bill becoming law,” said Speaker Coughlin. “Too many workers aren’t earning enough to make ends meet. But, that all changes today. Today marks a new day for New Jersey residents and future generations, as we gradually raise the minimum wage and help alleviate poverty across our great state.”
The current minimum wage in New Jersey is $8.85 per hour. Under the new law, the base minimum wage for New Jersey workers will increase to $10.00 per hour on July 1, 2019. By January 1, 2020, the statewide minimum wage will increase to $11.00 per hour, and then will increase by $1.00 per hour every January 1 until it reaches $15.00 per hour on January 1, 2024.
For seasonal workers and employees at small businesses with five or fewer workers, the base minimum wage will reach $15.00 per hour by January 1, 2026. By January 1, 2028, workers in these groups will receive the minimum wage inclusive of inflation adjustments that take place from 2024 to 2028, equalizing the minimum wage with the main cohort of New Jersey workers.
For agricultural workers, the base minimum wage will increase to $12.50 per hour by January 1, 2024. No later than March 31, 2024, the New Jersey Labor Commissioner and Secretary of Agriculture will jointly decide whether to recommend that the minimum wage for agricultural workers increase to $15.00 per hour by January 1, 2027, as specified in the bill. If they cannot come to an agreement, a third member, appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, will break the tie. If there is a recommendation to disapprove of the scheduled increases or suggest an alternative pathway, the Legislature will have the ability to implement that recommendation by passage of a concurrent resolution.
Elected officials, advocates, and business leaders proclaimed support for New Jersey’s new minimum wage law.
“New Jersey is taking a big step forward in raising the minimum wage for most workers to $15.00 by 2024. It would be better, however, if that timetable applied to all businesses instead of putting some on a slower path,” said Holly Sklar, CEO of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage. “A lagging minimum wage will hurt small businesses, not help them. Small businesses that choose to pay the lower minimum wage will have more trouble hiring, experience higher turnover and lower productivity as employees go elsewhere to make a living, and undermine the customer service that keeps people coming through their doors. Rebranding ‘Shop Small’ as ‘Pay Small’ is the last thing small businesses need.”
Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, President and CEO of Earth Friendly Products®, maker of more than 200 ECOS® brand green cleaning products, Parsippany: “We’ve paid a living wage significantly above the minimum wage for many years, and we’ve seen long-term savings in the form of low turnover and better productivity and customer service. The direct costs of turnover include recruitment, interviewing and training. The indirect costs are less obvious, but they’re significant: lost productivity during onboarding, lower efficiency and lost corporate memory. Raising the minimum wage is an important investment in businesses and the consumer spending that drives New Jersey’s economy.”
“If you work hard and have a full time job, you should be able to afford a roof over your head and food on your table, but sadly, too many across our state and our country can’t get by no matter how hard or how long they work,” said Senator Bob Menendez. “I’d like to applaud Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney and Speaker Coughlin for working together on behalf of the people of New Jersey. When I think of the workers this legislation will benefit, I think of the kind of people I grew up with—men and women who put in long hours in some of the toughest jobs in our society, but still can’t seem to get ahead. As Democrats, we will never give up in our fight to create an economy that works for everyone.”
“Here in New Jersey, we are setting an example for the rest of the nation by raising the minimum wage and lifting many fellow New Jerseyans out of poverty,” said Senator Cory Booker, co-sponsor of the federal Raise the Wage Act (S.150). “It is time that we build on New Jersey’s successful effort and pass a $15.00 minimum wage on the federal level and provide all workers with a living wage.”
“No one working full-time in New Jersey should ever have to live in poverty and committing to a $15.00 minimum wage is an important step in that direction,” said Rep. Frank Pallone. “I want to thank Governor Murphy and the legislature for passing a law that will make a real difference in the lives of workers throughout our state. Now, Congress must work to follow Governor Murphy and New Jersey’s lead to increase the minimum wage for millions more families throughout our country.”
“No one working a full-time job should ever live in poverty. Putting the minimum wage on a path to $15 will give all New Jerseyans a path to the dignity and security that comes with a living wage,” said Rep. Bill Pascrell, a cosponsor of H.R. 582, the federal Raise the Wage Act. “I thank Governor Murphy and our state’s legislative leaders for their tireless work on this crucial issue. An increased minimum wage will strengthen New Jersey’s working class and our state as a whole. Today is a historic day for New Jersey and I will fight to raise the federal minimum wage to bring New Jersey values and policies to the rest of the nation.”
“I am incredibly proud that New Jersey is taking action to help over a million workers and boost the state’s economy by raising the minimum wage,” said Rep. Donald Norcross. “Last year, Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney and Speaker Coughlin joined me for their first public appearance together calling for $15 an hour minimum wage. Today, that promise becomes a reality and full-time working New Jerseyans will be lifted out of poverty. I’ve worked for minimum wage and I spent my career fighting for good pay for workers. I know this is the moral issue of our time. Now, my colleagues in Washington need to wake up, follow my home state’s lead and get to work to raise wages.”
“In an age of increasing income inequality, it is unconscionable for people to work a full-time job and not have enough income to keep their lights on,” said Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr. “At the federal level, I am an original co-sponsor of a bill that would gradually raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour. But it’s been nearly twelve years since Congress raised the federal minimum wage. I am proud that New Jersey is once again leading the way and not waiting on the federal government. Raising the wage will help New Jersey’s working families prosper.”
“There can be no understating what this means – a stronger, more vibrant New Jersey for all of its residents,” said Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman. “Raising the state’s minimum wage to $15.00 per hour by 2024 won’t just help workers, it will lift our entire economy by allowing those individuals to be consumers again. It means workers can afford the goods and services offered by New Jersey businesses. It means more customers at the small businesses on main street. It means more of our communities thrive. The tireless work of the governor and legislature will make New Jersey a model for the nation and the federal government.”
“There should be an expectation in this country that anyone who works full time deserves to live above the poverty line,” said Rep. Tom Malinowski. “I’m proud to represent a state that’s leading the way.”
“Raising the minimum wage to $15.00 an hour will dramatically improve the lives of over a million New Jerseyans and their families. It’s a bottom-up investment in our economy that will pay dividends for years to come. After years of trickle-down policies that rewarded the wealthy and well-connected at the expense of working families New Jersey is beginning to tackle the income inequality that plagues our state and our nation as a whole. Thank you to Governor Murphy for signing this legislation and all those, including legislative leadership, the workers and advocates who worked tireless to ensure this bill made it to the Governor’s desk. This is a great day in New Jersey,” said Phyllis Salowe-Kaye, Executive Director, New Jersey Citizen Action.
“Last fall, we announced a $15.00 minimum wage for all hourly employees in the U.S.,”said Brian Huseman, Vice President of Public Policy at Amazon. “Since then, employees have told us they’re having an easier time providing for their families and meeting their financial needs. That’s why we called on other companies and policymakers to join us in this endeavor. We applaud Governor Murphy for his efforts to raise wages for New Jersey’s entire workforce.”
“No family in New Jersey can live on our current minimum wage,” said Giovana Castaneda, Make the Road NJ youth leader. “Today, New Jersey takes a historic step forward by signing a law that will raise the minimum wage across the state to $15.00, finally giving working families the compensation we deserve. This victory is a sign of the power of the Fight for 15.00. As a teen worker who fought hard with young people across the state not to be left behind, I am proud that teen workers are included in the minimum wage hike. Our work has value and contributes to our families’ income and allows us to save for college. We are thrilled to welcome Governor Murphy, Senate President Sweeney and Speaker Coughlin to our community center to sign the law, and are grateful for their leadership.”
Rainbow Lakes Fire Department Fish and Chips Fundraiser
PARSIPPANY — Rainbow Lakes Fire Company is holding a “Fish or Chicken and Chips” Fundraiser on Friday, March 15 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Price includes one plate of either fish or chicken with chips and coleslaw, and one can of soda or bottle of water. Children meals are fish sticks or chicken fingers with fries. Take out or dine in.
For tickets, email fishandchips@RLVFC.org or call (973) 652-0851 from Noon to 9:00 p.m.
Rainbow Lakes Fire House is located at One Rainbow Trail, Denville.
The Vince Lombardi Trophy and Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — It all began in 1967. As legend goes, Oscar Riedener, vice president and design director at Tiffany & Co., sat down for lunch with NFL Commissioner Pete Rozzelle in New York City, and made a sketch on a cocktail napkin. The two men started a collaboration that would last more than 50 years and one that would create the most coveted trophy in sports history: the Vince Lombardi trophy. The first trophy was awarded on January 15, 1967 –
The winning team receives permanent possession of the Vince Lombardi Trophy, a sterling silver trophy created by Tiffany which is presented annually to the winner of the Super Bowl. The original trophy was produced by Tiffany in Newark. Tiffany’s Parsippany location manufactured the Trophy from 1967 to 2016. Starting in 2017 the trophy is produced at Tiffany’s Forrest Hills manufacturing facility in Cumberland, Rhode Island.
The Vince Lombardi Trophy was on display in the Parsippany-Troy Hills Municipal Building, during Mayor Mimi Lett’s term.
The trophy was named for the late Vince Lombardi before Super Bowl V. The trophy is a regulation-size silver football mounted in a kicking position on a pyramid-like stand of three concave sides.
- Height: 22 inches
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Value: $25,000
The only company Rozzelle contacted was Tiffany, which brought in the company’s design chief, Riedener, a native of Switzerland who knew nothing about football. Reidener went to FAO Schwartz and bought a football that he put on his kitchen table. The next morning he grabbed a box of Cornflakes, poured them into a bowl, and stared at the football while eating.
Upon finishing his Cornflakes, he took a pair of scissors, started cutting the empty box, and transformed it into a trophy base atop which the football could sit.
Over lunch a couple of days later with Rozelle and a delegation from Tiffany’s, Riedener drew a sketch of his design on a cocktail napkin. Rozelle liked it and it continues to be the design of the Lombardi Trophy over 50 years later.
Wise Animal Rescue held successful fundraiser
PARSIPPANY — The food was delicious and the laughs were plentiful at the Second Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Comedian Night held on Saturday, January 26 at the Boonton Elks. Boy Scout Troop 72 worked very hard in helping preparing the food, serving and cleaning up.
The room was packed with guests waiting to see the comedians from the Comedy Shoppe featuring Teddy Daniels, KP Burke and Joe Conte.
Special thanks to the sponsors: IHOP – Parsippany, Cedar Knolls, Perfect Pitch, QuickChek, ShopRite of Cedar Knolls, CSW Catering, Wreaths by Retta, Vera Bradley, Zerega, Samantha Jachs Cakes and Pastries, Donna Wojcik, Eccola, Lucy Ellicott – Avon, Boy Scout Troop 72 and Hounds Town.
PACC to hold “Lunch Dozen Networking Series”
PARSIPPANY — Successful Mary Kay Distributor Doreen Brennan is the guest speaker at the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce “Lunch Dozen Networking Series.” This series will be held on Wednesday, February 13 at 12:00 Noon. Cost for this event is $15.00 and includes lunch, from a selection of items.
Doreen will discuss some techniques that may help you in those face-to-face networking interactions and proper techniques to make your networking successful and gain new customers. Networking will help you develop and improve your skill set, stay on top of the latest trends in your industry, keep a pulse on the job market, meet prospective mentors, partners, and clients, and gain access to the necessary resources that will foster your career development.
During lunch and you will have a one-on-one conversation with Doreen Brennan on her success in networking.
Reserve your seat today by clicking here, as there are a limited quantity available.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce is a service organization for businesses, merchants, residents and volunteers that provides education, information and networking opportunities to the Parsippany Area. For more information call (973) 402-6400.