PARSIPPANY — Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad installed the 2019 officers at a dinner held at The Mansion, Mountain Lakes, on Saturday, January 19.
Lauryn Nolan was sworn in as President; Matt Nicosia as Vice President; Martin Elliott, Chief; Shaun Wellman, Deputy Chief; Gary Razen, Recording Secretary; Sandra Talmadge as Corresponding Secretary and Chris Brown as Secretary.
Amber O’Neil received a plaque for ten years of devoted service and loyal support to Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad from President Chris BrownBob Heinzerling received a plaque for thirty years of devoted service and loyal support to Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad from President Chris BrownMartin Ellicott received the “Bob Deckenback Award” from President Chris Brown. The Bob Deckenback Award, named after Bob Deckenback, (Deceased member) who gave his life towards anything with helping others. The award was created a few years prior to his passing so he could see people that were earning this award named after him.
Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad is located at 25 Crescent Drive. In order to better serve the needs of the rapidly expanding community The Rockaway Neck Fire Department (Parsippany Fire District 5 today) was established the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad in 1952.
The original ambulance building was located at 119 Old Bloomfield Avenue but was moved to its current location in May of 1972.
Since 1952 the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad has provided emergency medical services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to the areas of Eastern Parsippany and Lake Hiawatha. Ambulances are staffed with New Jersey State certified EMTs and Certified Emergency Vehicle Operators.
100% of our members are Volunteers representing the true spirit of the community.
Rockaway Neck First Aid SquadRockaway Neck First Aid Squad Members Justin Bermudez and Kirk FellerParsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano and Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad President Chris BrownParsippany Rescue and Recovery Deputy Chief Paul Anderson and his wife, EliseParsippany-Troy Hills Councilwoman Loretta Gragnani and her husband AdamParsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Michael dePierro and his wife, DeloresRockaway Neck First Aid Squad celebration cake
PARSIPPANY — At it’s annual Reorganization meeting held on Saturday, January 12 at Birchwood Manor, of Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance, Mayor Michael Soriano swore in the following officers: President, Jennifer Thurkauf; Sgt. Earl Kinsey, EMS Liaison and Trustee; Chief Jennifer Sikora and Vice President Melinda Ernst.
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance has been serving the community since 1942. They are your “Neighbors helping Neighbors”.
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance does not bill for their services and all of the members are volunteer. Their only source of income is their fund drive, and a small quarterly stipend from the Township. Some of their average yearly costs are Medical Supplies: $23,000; Vehicle Fuel: $13,000; Vehicle Repairs: $25,000; and Building Utilities: $14,000.
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance has a very active Junior Squad, who are between the ages of 16 and 17 who work with the members over age 18 to gain experience in the field of Emergency Medical Services. If you ever have any questions about anything pertaining to the squad, its members or the services we provided, please call the business number (973) 887-3003, Monday through Friday 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Leave a message if no one answers on extension 10, with your name, phone number and the reason for your call.
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Honored four individuals at its Annual Holiday Party held at Hanover Manor on Tuesday, January 8.
Past President Frank Cahill was honored with “Kiwanian of the Year,” Nicolas Limanov and Bonnie Sturm was honored with George F. Hixson Fellowship and Gordon Meth received the Tablet of Honor.
Frank Cahill receiving the Kiwanian of the Year award from Connie Keller and President Karen DeChristopher
Connie Keller, and last years Kiwanian of the Year, presented Frank Cahill, with the 2018 Kiwanian of the Year Award. Keller said “This year’s Kiwanian of the Year is being recognized for making significant contributions to our Club last year. Under this person’s guidance our club significantly increased its membership last year, earning us the #2 spot in the State for fastest growing club. He attended every project we had and participated in every fundraiser. He gives our club great publicity and advertising. And because of him and his dedication to our club, Parsippany knows what a “Kiwanis” is. I am proud to award this year’s Kiwanian of the Year to Frank Cahill.”
Kiwanis member Nicolas Limanov receiving the George F. Hixson award from President Karen DeChristopher and President-elect Susan Elbin
In 1983, the Kiwanis Children’s Fund established the George F. Hixson Fellowship. Named for Kiwanis International’s first president, Hixon Fellowships. It’s a way of recognizing people who have contributed significantly to Kiwanis’ history of generosity. In fact, clubs and Kiwanians often give in honor of another person or organization – recognizing others’ help and commitment with a Hixon Fellowship.
For the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, we award the Hixon to a person(s) who have contributed to the betterment of the club and made significant contributions to the club and community. This year, the Hixon Award goes to two very special people.
Nick was supported by many guests at the event
Susan Elbin said “This Kiwanian has been an active member in our club for the past four years. Starting out by volunteering regularly for Homeless Solutions, he quickly jumped in with both feet into many of the other service projects the club performs. Without having prior experience in leading a large fundraising event, this Kiwanian stepped up two years ago to chair the Touch-A-Truck committee. His first year he was mentored by club members – especial Bob Keller. Last year, he began putting his own touches on the event — adding the landing of State Police Helicopter, the K-9 dogs, and Picatinny Arsenal. He worked with Frank Cahill to get local businesses like IHOP and Lake Hiawatha Dairy to donate promotional items to prepare a “giveaway” package upon leaving the event. He is already wheeling and dealing for 2019. He is also involved in non-Kiwanian, community activities such as being a First Responder, a FAA drone Pilot for the Parsippany Office of Emergency Management and working for several townships in Public Safety Telecommunications. He is a Board Member in both the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and Wise Animal Rescue. This Kiwanian, at the age of 23, is credited for saving two lives, one from a car fire and the choking victim. He is also co-chair of the Young Children Priority One committee, the youngest member of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany – helping to keep up all young! Thank you and congratulations to Nicolas Limanov.”
Ron Orthwein, Karen DeChristopher, Bonnie Sturm, Davey Willans and Betty Polen
The second George F. Hixson Fellowship was presented by Kiwanis Member Betty Polen. Some Kiwanis Clubs give to honor a non-Club person or organization to recognize their commitment to helping their community. Until now, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has never done that. However, with the second Hixon, we are presenting just that.
Betty said “This individual has been active with one of the Sponsored Youth Clubs, now called Youth Leadership Clubs, sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, for over twenty years. Many of our Club’s members have had the opportunity to work with this individual on several projects and have witnessed a wonderful interaction with Club officers, general club members and the New Jersey District Board. This individual believes in leading by example and makes it very clear to all of the club members that they are part of a service club, not a social club. Every Club member is required to sign a service agreement that defines the rules that they must follow to remain a club member in good standing as well as a commitment to complete a certain number of service hours during each marking period. The members of this Youth Leadership Club, known as “Key Club” are always to volunteer for anything and everything when they are asked to help, whether it be to support their local Kiwanis Club of the Township in general. She is a tremendous supporter of the New JErsey District of Key Club. Every year she brings as many Key Clubbers as possible to Fall Rally at Six Flags Great Adventure. Her Club always brings a large donation of school supplies or food donations or whatever is requested for that year to support the District Project. During the years that the Eliminate Project was the Kiwanis and Key Club International’s Project, her Key club raised oer $10,000. Please join me in congratulating Bonnie Sturm on becoming a George F. Hixson Fellowship award recipient.
Parsippany Hills High School teacher Bonnie Sturm hugs Betty Polen upon accepting the George F. Hixson Fellowship
The Tablet of Honor was presented to Gordon Meth by Ron Orthwein.
The Tablet of Honor is one of the highest awards bestowed upon an individual from the Kiwanis International Foundation. Along with their plaque, each recipient’s name also appears on a Tablet of Honor accolade in the lobby of the Kiwanis International office in Indianapolis. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has honored eight people for their hard work and dedication to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. The eight current honorees are Harold Gantert (deceased), Karen Gajewski, Michael Mulhaul, Bob Keller, Joyce Garrow, Steve Dickens, Dr. Joseph Weisberg and Ron Orthwein.
The criteria for the Tablet of Honor are the same as the criteria for the George F. Hixson Fellowship with one notable exception, the recipient must have worked every year in the club in all areas of the Hixon criteria for a minimum of ten years.
Ron Orthwein, Karen DeChristopher and Gordon Meth
Orthwein said “I have known this individual for the past 13 years and I can attest to the fact that he meets all of the criteria for this award. It is difficult if not impossible to review this individual’s accomplishments without immediately giving away his identity so instead I will just go through his Kiwanis Resume with you.
Past President Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation
Past Lieutenant Governor Division 9 New Jersey District of Kiwanis International (Twice)
Past Governor New Jersey District of Kiwanis International
Current Financial Counselor New Jersey District of Key Club International
Current Governor Elect New Jersey District of Kiwanis International
Current President Kiwanis Club of South Orange-Maplewood
Coach for the newly formed Kiwanis Club of Clifton
“I have the pleasure of awarding Gordon Meth with this such high honor,” continued Orthwein.
For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has honored eight individuals with the Tablet of Honor
PARSIPPANY — Kaufman, Semeraro & Leibman, LLP is happy to announce that they successfully represented two governmental employees in a hostile work environment/discrimination/retaliation lawsuit which settled under terms of confidentiality, for $1,750,000.00.
The claim involved allegations that a manager discriminated against the employees due to one employee’s immigration status and due to the other having children out of wedlock. It was alleged that the employees were verbally abused over a three year period and ultimately retaliated against when they reported the abuse to upper management.
After extensive discovery including evidential hearings and the deposition of 12 past and current employees, the employer agreed to settle without any admission of liability and under the condition of anonymity and confidentiality.
If you or anyone you know has been the victim of a hostile work environment, discrimination, harassment, retaliation or wrongful termination, please contact Kaufman, Semeraro & Leibman, LLP.
Kaufman, Semeraro & Leibman has a Parsippany office located at 90 East Halsey Road and can be reached by calling (973) 585-6254.
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation donated $7,500 to Camp Nejeda at its annual Holiday and Awards Dinner held at Hanover Manor on Tuesday, January 8.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Foundation President Frank Cahill, and Kiwanis Member/Wine Tasting Chairman Michael Mulhual presented the check to Jennifer Passerini, Development Director Camp Nejeda and Bill Vierbuchen, Executive Director Camp Nejeda. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Karen DeChristopher looks on.
This year wine selection at our annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser was provided by Joe Canal’s Discount Liquor Outlet, 799 Route 46 East. Joe Canal’s is known for sizable selection of discount wine, beer and spirits.
There is a very diverse selection of wines from all parts of the world with descriptions, recommendations and ratings available on display at Joe Canal’s. This is super helpful and takes the intimidation of selecting wine a breeze for any novice.
Grand Tasting Chairman Michael Mulhaul said “We raised over $315,000 in the past twenty two years, in which Kiwanis Club was able to donate to other non-profit organizations, including Camp Nejeda, New Jersey Sharing Network, Lake Drive Program – Mountain Lakes School District, Morristown Memorial Hospital, Eliminate and Autism.”
At Camp Nejeda youth with diabetes are given the opportunity to live, if only for one or two weeks, in a world where having diabetes is the norm and where there is no need to explain blood sugar testing, finger pricks, insulin injections, ketones, ‘lows’ (insulin reactions), boluses or ‘carb’ counting because everyone here already understands.
Camp Nejeda is fully licensed by the New Jersey Department of Health and accredited by the American Camp Association. ACA accredited camps meet up to 300 standards for health, food service, safety, and program quality.
Grand Tasting Chairman Michael Mulhaul said “We are already planning our 23rd Grand Tasting which will be held on October 17, 2019.”
For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany click here.
The majority of all Morris County JCP&L customers have been restored.
We expect rain to continue through the early afternoon before diminishing. We currently have temps in the mid-30s. We are anticipating that the temps will decrease to the low-30s later in the day, with a significant decrease after 6pm this evening, as we head into the mid to upper-teens by 10pm. We are anticipating refreeze issues today and into tomorrow as the frigid low temps continue.
Please be mindful of the temps and conditions. We have wet surfaces that will freeze making conditions dangerous.
Colonel Patrick J. Callahan has announced the commercial vehicle travel restriction will be lifted on all roadways with the exception of northbound traffic on interstate 287 including and between exits 41 (interstate 80 interchange) and 66 (New York State border) effective Sunday, January 20, at 7:00 a.m.
All vehicles previously listed in the restriction will be able to resume normal travel. Commercial vehicles entering the state should take note of possible speed restrictions on some roads.
We urge motorists to avoid unnecessary driving to allow plow crews to continue to clear the roadways.
Please visit www.511nj.org to receive up-to-date information on road conditions statewide.
PARSIPPANY — Gregory Guss, a 2009 Parsippany High School graduate, received a Masters Degree from Montclair State College during a Commencement ceremony held on Saturday, January 19. He graduated with a 4.0 grade point average. He majored in Business Administration.
Guss is employed at Ayco, a Goldman Sachs Company. Ayco is a national leader in company-sponsored financial counseling, investment management and family office services.
Their holistic and personalized approach is at the heart of their decades-long history.
At Ayco, peace of mind is more than an expression. It’s their mission.
Ayco is located at Eight Campus Drive.
Montclair State University is a public research university in Montclair, New Jersey. Montclair State University is the second largest university in New Jersey. As of October 2017, there were 21,013 total enrolled students: 16,852 undergraduate students and 4,161 graduate students.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Board of Trustees of Morris County Interfaith Food Pantry and Resource Center has announced the appointment of Carolyn Lake as the organizations’ new Executive Director.
“Carolyn possesses a deep understanding of and commitment to our mission,” said Gregory J. Supron, President IFP Board of Trustees. “In addition, Carolyn has played a major role in shaping the IFP’s strategy and programs over the years. We are confident that under Carolyn’s leadership the IFP will continue to make great strides toward our vision of ending hunger in Morris County.”Lake will succeed Rosemary Gilmartin, who retired after 24 years on December 31. Lake has been with the organization for 13 years, most recently as associate director, but also as director of operations and director of community relations and development.
“We congratulate Carolyn and look forward to a continued excellent working relationship between Morris County government and the Food Pantry,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Kathy DeFillippo. “They provide a very important service for our countywide community.’’
“It’s an exciting time in our history,” said Lake. “Moving forward, we will build on Rosemary’s legacy by expanding and strengthening our programs, but also look to expand partnerships across our network to fortify the nutrition safety net for all county residents.”
The Interfaith Food Pantry will celebrate Gilmartin’s legacy at its annual Spring Gala, to be held in her honor on April 5 at the Birchwood Manor in Whippany. The Gala also marks the Silver (25th) Anniversary of the IFP.
For further information about the gala please contact Sandra Benedict, Director of Development, at (973) 538-8049, ext. 221 or sbenedict@mcifp.org.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Office of Emergency Management – Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is currently accepting applications for certified and experienced Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and/or Paramedics to join the EMS team.
The EMT/Paramedic will be responsible for leading, directing, and participating in the delivery of Basic Life Support (BLS) and working in partnership with Advanced Life Support (ALS) teams in a prehospital setting. Ideal candidates will remain calm under pressure, exercise good judgment, and make sound decisions while dealing with emergency situations.
Candidates should have the ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing. Candidates should have the ability to multi-task and have proficient keyboard entry skills. Bilingual applicants are highly desirable.
Possess a current Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification issued by the New Jersey Department of Health and meet the eligibility requirements for the Emergency Medical Technician job specification as outlined by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission.
Possess a current Healthcare Provider CPR Certification.
Paramedics must possess a current ACLS and PALS certification.
Possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license.
Qualifying applicants will be invited to attend a mandatory program orientation and hiring process overview.
Candidates who are interested in pursuing a position with our EMS team will be contacted to complete the Morris County OEM/EMS Realistic Job Preview and will be provided an opportunity to participate in the interview process.
Candidates who successfully complete the steps above will be invited to attend the written examination, physical assessment, and EMS-BLS multiple-station scenario-based practical examination testing date.
Completion and satisfactory results of a criminal history background check.
Note: Applicants who possess a higher level of certification such as Mobile Intensive Care Paramedic, or Mobile Intensive Care Registered Nurse Certification, issued by the New Jersey Department of Health, are considered to have met the EMT certification requirement listed above.
Position requires graduation from High School or equivalent, New Jersey residency, willingness to work shifts on a rotating basis including holidays and weekends, and prior experience in EMS with a minimum of two years in 911 EMS response. All candidates must successfully complete all aspects of the hiring process.
Starting salary is commensurate with experience and certifications within the range of $18.00 – $23.41 per hour/annually. The position is per-diem.
PARSIPPANY — A total of 1,513 students have been named to the Dean’s List at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania (ESU) for the Fall 2018 semester of the 2018-2019 academic year, according to Joanne Bruno, J.D., provost and vice president for academic affairs.
Students eligible for the Dean’s List are those who have attained a 3.50 quality point average or better and are enrolled full-time. The letter grade “B” earns 3 quality points per credit, and the grade “A” earns 4 quality points per credit.
Gabriela Rachmaciej of Lake Hiawatha was among those recognized for this academic achievement.
East Stroudsburg University, one of the 14 institutions in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, opened in 1893 as East Stroudsburg Normal School. Today, ESU is a comprehensive university in northeastern Pennsylvania offering 55 undergraduate programs, 22 master’s programs and one doctoral program.
More than 6,800 students are enrolled for the high quality, affordable, and accessible education ESU provides. Nearly 30,000 ESU alumni live in Pennsylvania.
MORRIS COUNTY — Five Star Professional is pleased to announce Caryl Stollmack-Cozin of RE/MAX Neighborhood Properties, as one of New Jersey’s Five Star Real Estate agents in 2019.
The Five Star award program is the largest and most widely published awards program in the Real Estate industry. The award is based on a rigorous, multifaceted research methodology, which incorporates input from clients, industry experience and a thorough regulatory history review.
“I am honored and excited to be recognized for my client service. My commitment to providing both expertise and ongoing communication to Home Buyers/Sellers remains my single most priority and my clients’ needs are always at the forefront of every transaction,” said Caryl Stollmack-Cozin.
Caryl is a former Marketer/VP in the Cosmetics Industry, having spent over 20 years creating Billion Dollar brands world-wide and even appearing on Home Shopping Channels. She is an award-winning Marketer and, since joining the Real Estate Industry in 2015, has been a consistent award winner in the marketing and selling of homes, servicing all of New Jersey. A lifelong resident of New Jersey, Caryl has lived in Montville Twp for over 25 years.
Methodology: The Five Star Professional research team contacts thousands of recent homebuyers throughout the United States, as well as other consumers. Clients may also submit evaluations online. Phone, mail and online respondents rated their service professional on criteria such as overall satisfaction and whether they would recommend the provider to a friend. The research process incorporates a statistically valid sample in order to identify the professionals in the local market who score highest in overall satisfaction. The research methodology allows no more than seven percent of professionals to receive the objective eligibility and evaluation criteria.
TRENTON — Governor Phil Murphy, Senate President Steve Sweeney, and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin announced an agreement on legislation to raise New Jersey’s minimum wage to $15.00 per hour. The agreement is the result of months of deliberative and thorough negotiations between the Governor’s Office, Senate, and General Assembly to institute a $15.00 per hour minimum wage, raising wages for over one million workers and promoting broad-based economic growth.
“We are taking a historic step to provide more than one million New Jersey workers a stronger foothold in the middle class,” said Governor Murphy. “No one working a full-time job should ever live in poverty. Putting the minimum wage on a clear and responsible path to $15.00 per hour is good for workers, good for our businesses, and good for our economy. A higher minimum wage strengthens all of New Jersey. I thank Senate President Sweeney and Speaker Coughlin for their commitment to this issue, and look forward to signing this legislation into law.”
Under the bill, the minimum wage for the vast majority of workers would increase to: $10.00 per hour in July; $11.00 per hour in 2020; $12.00 per hour in 2021; $13.00 per hour in 2022; $14.00 per hour in 2023 and $15.00 per hour in 2024.
PARSIPPANY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp, Chief Jason A. Kohn of the Morris Plains Police Department, and Chief of Investigations Stephen F. Wilson, Jr. announce that Stephen Corcoran, 51, with a last known address in Morris Plains, was sentenced to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison. The defendant is subject to Megan’s Law and Community Supervision of Life.
In August 2018, Corcoran pled guilty to four separate counts of Sexual Assault, all crimes of the second degree.
These charges represent separate acts of sexual penetration committed upon the three individual victims between 1997 and 1999 in the Borough of Morris Plains. As part of the plea, the Defendant acknowledged that he was in a supervisory position as a result of his Assistant Scoutmaster status.
The case came to light in November 2011, when a former boy scout came forward and disclosed to law enforcement that he had been sexually assaulted by his former Assistant Scoutmaster, later identified as the Defendant, while the victim was a juvenile.
Subsequent investigation revealed two additional former boy scouts who also disclosed that they had been sexually assaulted by the Defendant in the 1990s, when each of these victims were juveniles. One of the victims disclosed a course of abuse that occurred over several years.
Sentence was imposed by the Hon. Thomas J. Critchley, J.S.C. The State was represented by Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Schellhorn and Assistant Prosecutor Catherine LaQuaglia in this matter.
The Defendant is currently serving a seven year State Prison sentence related to his 2017 convictions for Exhibition of Child Pornography, a crime of the second degree, and 11 counts of Possession of Child Pornography, crimes of the fourth degree. The sentence imposed for the Sexual Assault convictions will run concurrent to the Child Pornography convictions.
The efforts of numerous law enforcement agencies contributed to these convictions, including the Parsippany Police Department, the Morris Plains Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit. Prosecutor Knapp said, “The Defendant held a trusted leadership role in his community and chose to abuse his power by hurting innocent children. The past cannot be changed, however we hope that this sentence brings some closure to the victims.”
MORRIS COUNTY — While full-term classes have begun at County College of Morris (CCM) for the Spring Semester, there is still time to enroll in the college’s mini session courses.
A 13-Week spring session runs from February 8 through May 16. Classes being offered during this session include Biology, Business, Communications, Computer Information Systems, English, Mathematics, Nursing, Psychology and more.
A Late 7-Week session starts on March 18 and runs through May 4. Classes being offered during this session include Accounting, Biology, Business, English, Photography and more.
Also being offered are 2 Week sessions in English Skills Review. Mid Start 2 Week begins February 4 and runs through February 16. Late 2 Week runs from February 18 through March 2.
To see what classes are being offered during what days and time, and to register, click here.
Prior to registering for courses, students need to apply to the college. Applications can be submitted online by clicking here. The Admissions office also can be reached at admiss@ccm.edu or (973) 328-5100. Walk-ins, too, are welcomed. The Admissions office is located in the Student Community Center, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph, NJ 07869.
With more than 45 Associate Degree programs, 150-plus transfer agreements and a wide range of certificate programs, CCM offers numerous opportunities to obtain a high-quality education designed to meet career goals.
Visit www.ccm.edu and discover how you can “Start Right … Finish Strong.”
MORRIS COUNTY — Project Homeless Connect, a daylong, consumer focused, one-stop event designed to provide an array of resources and support to those experiencing homelessness in our Morris County community, will be held on Thursday, January 24 at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 70 Maple Avenue, in Morristown.
An Opening Ceremony is planned for 9:00 a.m. with doors opening at 10:00 a.m. The event runs until 2:00 p.m.
“Project Homeless Connect is a county-wide partnership designed to provide some of our community’s most adversely affected individuals with resources, referrals and support,” said Bob Davison, Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, which is the lead agency coordinating the event.
“It is important for people facing such basic challenges as not having a roof over your head or knowing where your next meal is going to come from to be welcomed and treated with dignity and respect,” he added.
Project Homeless Connect began in 2004, when the city of San Francisco organized a special day dedicated to providing necessary services to the homeless. The Morris County Project Homeless Connect event began in 2008 under the leadership of the Mental Health Association and typically serves about 200 people each year.
Some 43 community-based service providers will participate in the upcoming Morris County event and provide resources free of charge to all who attend. Project Homeless Connect guests can obtain mental health information, substance abuse treatment, health screenings, housing information and veteran’s resources.
Morris County Freeholder Kathy DeFillippo
Agencies collected donations throughout the year and many goods will be given out at the event including clothing, coats, hygiene products, backpacks, gift cards, food and more. Other services will include free haircuts, skincare with Mary Kay and medical services including free flu shots and health screenings for homeless residents.
“We strongly support this program and also strongly back the efforts by our Human Services team, the Mental Health Association and other nonprofit agencies in Morris County to help county residents find appropriate housing,” said Morris County Freeholder Kathy DeFillippo, who is the county governing board’s liaison on social services.
“It’s an especially important issue during this time of year, when some of our less-fortunate residents without homes spend bitterly cold nights at our Code Blue warming centers.”
This year Morris County also is launching Everyday Connect, a project that offers a way for services to come to those who need them throughout the year instead of just at one annual event. Service providers will be visiting the Dover and Morristown drop in centers, Edna’s Haven and Our Promise on a rotating basis throughout the year. This will allow homeless individuals to access services at locations they visit daily without an appointment, instead of having consumers seek out services.
A Point in Time Count also will take place during Project Homeless Connect. It is a street and shelter count to determine the number of people experiencing homelessness within Morris County.
In 2018, NJCounts found 9,303 homeless men, women and children (300 in Morris County) in 6,982 households across New Jersey. This number increased by 771 persons, or nine percent, from 2017. Click here for the NJCounts 2018 reports and the Morris County report.
“This count is important to us because it helps us to know how many people are in need. Once we know the homeless population we can create programs to address their needs to lift them out of homelessness,” said Danielle Pera, who is director of the Mental Health Association’s PATH program, which provides direct outreach to homeless individuals.
“In the past, we’ve seen veterans, chronically homeless individuals with undiagnosed medical issues and even entire families take advantage of the resources available during the event. Homelessness is very real and can affect anyone so we hope to send that message and let them know help is available.”
“We may not be able to provide each of our attendees with an immediate solution to their problems, but we can let them know that Morris County is a community with a myriad of available resources and compassionate service providers who are there to assist them, not just on Project Homeless Connect Day, but throughout the year,” Davison said.
To learn more about Project Homeless Connect, residents can contact Danielle Pera at (973) 334-3496.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany IHOP donated a 1999 Ford Box Truck to Wise Animal Rescue. Wise Animal Rescue plans to refurbishing the truck for mobile adoption events and well as transportation for animal rescue.
“The amount of gratitude we, the volunteers of Wise Animal Rescue, feel for IHOP’s continuous support and generosity can’t be expressed in words. Their partnering with us has helped us aid so many of our sick, homeless, abandoned animals and allowed us to provide the veterinary care and supplies they need to lead them on their path to a new life,” said Tiziana Bartelli, President Wise Animal Rescue.
Wise Animal Rescue (W.A.R.) is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of dogs of all breeds. They are comprised of a network of caring people with a grassroots approach working towards a world where no dog is neglected, abused, or homeless.
W.A.R. rescues dogs of all ages and breeds from unsafe environments as well as those who are abandoned or surrendered. Partnering with veterinary practices that support our work, we are able to save dogs’ lives and restore them back to health. Central to the mission is to ensure that all dogs are spayed/neutered, up to date on shots, and microchipped. Dogs are placed into responsible loving foster homes to be socialized and trained until they can be placed in a safe, permanent home.
W.A.R. invests time and energy into the raising of awareness, education, and advocacy on behalf of neglected, surrendered, and abandoned dogs. Included in their mission is to make the public aware of the myriad of problems resulting from backyard breeding, puppy mills, and the cruel and inhumane practice of dog baiting and dog fighting. Specifically, they are committed to advocating for and educating about dogs categorized as bully breed mixes that suffer an undeserved negative image which results in them facing unwarranted and unjust prejudice.
IHOP truck donated to Wise Animal Rescue
The truck was towed by Corigliano Towing, located in Boonton.
For more information on Wise Animal Rescue click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — Auditions for MPAC’s 7th annual Spring Musical, Grease, will take place beginning February 10 at the Theatre.
MPAC is seeking musical talented and diverse performers ages 15-25 for Principle roles and Ensemble. Performers should be excellent actors who sing and dance.
Grease will be directed by MPAC Education Director Cathy Roy. Charles Santoro will serve as Musical Director. Performance dates are May 31-June 2. Tickets will go on sale in April.
Individuals interested in auditioning should prepare 16-32 bars of a song in the style of the show. Musical Theatre, Pop or Rock and Roll songs are acceptable. Please bring sheet music in the appropriate key, hole punched, double sided and in a binder for the accompanist. All lyrics must be memorized. If you do not have sheet music, you can purchase music online at www.musicnotes.com or www.sheetmusicplus.com. ABSOLUTELY NO ACAPELLA SINGING. **If you have an audition book, please bring it in case you’re asked for another selection. If you have one, please bring a copy of your headshot/picture and resume.
MPAC Spring musicals present a unique opportunity for young performers to participate in a fully professional production in which they work with a professional crew and guest Equity artists. Previous MPAC Spring productions have included Shrek the Musical (2018), West Side Story (2017), Mary Poppins (2016), Les Miserables (2015), Hairspray (2014) and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (2013).
For more information about the musical, auditions, roles and a show synopsis, click here.
PARSIPPANY — Meet Brandi! Brandi unfortunately came into rescue when her dad’s dementia progressed and he could no longer care for her.
Brandi is an 8½-year-old Pug/Beagle mix (often referred to as a puggle). Her family describes her as very affectionate and that she gets along well with everyone. Her favorite activities include playing with her toys, having her belly rubbed, and snuggling up on the couch. Brandi knows basic commands, is potty-trained, and gets along well with other pets!
Brandi has diabetes which is well-controlled by just two insulin shots a day. This doesn’t slow her down one bit though! She loves going for walks around the neighborhood and running around in her backyard.
Brandi likes her special treats a lot and doesn’t like to give them away so it’d be best if she lived with children 16+. Other than her fondness of her bones and food, Brandi is a sweet, sweet girl who would make any house a home!
If you are interested in adopting Brandi, 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.
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) officials today issued a Winter Weather Congestion Alert and are implementing the Department’s Business Day Protocol based on the forecast for expected snow and freezing rain overnight tonight and into the morning commute tomorrow, Friday, January 18, which may result in difficult driving conditions.
NJDOT will be deploying the necessary resources in advance of the storm and is coordinating its response with NJ Transit and the toll road authorities to ensure the best response for New Jerseyans.
In order for NJDOT and our regional and local transportation partners to safely and efficiently clear roadways of snow and ice, motorists need to Clear the Roads so We Can Clear the Roads.
The Department and our transportation and law enforcement partners are recommending motorists:
Avoid Unnecessary Travel during the storm
Consider Telecommuting, if possible
If you are driving, plan extra travel time
During the morning commute it may be best to leave later to give crews more time to clear roads and to spread traffic out over a longer period of time
If you are driving and road conditions deteriorate, PULL OFF somewhere safe and wait it out
Always STAY CLEAR of plowing and spreading trucks. If they are behind you, let them pass
DO NOT pass between trucks that are in a plow formation
Be patient and use caution
NJDOT will be using Variable Message Signs throughout the storm to provide updates. Once conditions improve, NJDOT will lift the Winter Weather Congestion Alert.
Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website by clicking here for real-time travel information and for NJDOT news and updates follow us on the NJDOT Facebook page or on Twitter @NJDOT_info.
PARSIPPANY — Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill has postponed her town hall until Sunday, January 27, as Congress will be called back into session next week to address the government shutdown. The town hall will now be held at the Parsippany PAL, 33 Baldwin Road.
Please note that the town hall is still subject to additional changes if the shutdown remains in effect by the January 27.
UPDATED DETAILS: NJ-11 TOWN HALL
NEW DATE: Sunday, January 27th
NEW TIME: 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
NEW LOCATION: Parsippany PAL, 33 Baldwin Road, Parsippany
Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad is located at 25 Crescent Drive. In order to better serve the needs of the rapidly expanding community The Rockaway Neck Fire Department (Parsippany Fire District 5 today) was established the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad in 1952.
The Interfaith Food Pantry will celebrate Gilmartin’s legacy at its annual Spring Gala, to be held in her honor on April 5 at the Birchwood Manor in Whippany. The Gala also marks the Silver (25th) Anniversary of the IFP.
