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
MORRIS COUNTY — Clad in Kevlar-lined or protective suits, law enforcement K-9 officers this week offered their arms and legs as bite-bait to learn advanced techniques from Morris County Sheriff’s Office K-9 experts on partnering with their dogs to apprehend dangerous criminals.
The week-long Morris County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Academy Decoy Seminar at the Morristown Armory provided intensive instruction and real-life scenarios to 15 K-9 handlers from around the state, including New Jersey State Police and officers from Deal, Mahwah, Jersey City, Hillsborough, and the Essex and Passaic County Sheriff’s Offices.
“The seminar was a vital opportunity for K-9 teams to learn from premier leaders how to deploy K-9s under specific scenarios to stop suspected violent offenders while keeping the community, themselves and their dogs safe,” Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon said.
The seminar was taught by Sheriff’s Office Detective Sgt. Aaron Tomasini, Detective Cpl. Michael McMahon and a K-9 officer from the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office.
The seminar focused on training officers to be decoys skilled at drawing out behaviors in the dogs that hone their abilities to apprehend and hold suspects. The decoys, protected by their bulky padded suits, played the role of suspects trying to flee while other officers and handlers deployed the dogs with commands. Handlers do not act as decoys to their own dogs.
Since decoy work is physically taxing on the officer, the seminar also provided instruction to officers on how to avoid injuries to themselves and the pursuing K-9.
“For the dog, apprehension is the reward. The decoy is a big toy they get to possess and obtain,” Tomasini said.
Tomasini said K-9s very rarely are commanded in Morris County to chase and bite suspects, and only after verbal warnings are first given to a suspect. But K-9 deployment is an important tool for use against non-compliant criminal suspects and all commands to the dogs to apprehend and hold come from their handlers who are trained in proper use of force, Tomasini said.
“We have a tool we may utilize for the safety of fellow officers, as well as the community, that’s able to stop the threat,” he said.
Morris County Sheriff’s Officers assigned to the K-9 section use Belgian Malinois, German and Dutch shepherds in their work that can involve responses to multiple calls in one day. The section is a shared service, available to all municipalities and law enforcement agencies in the county.
In 2018, the K-9 section logged 854 calls and sweeps. The statistics include 518 callouts for narcotics, bomb, arson, patrol, and search and rescue endeavors, and 336 protective sweeps of Morris County facilities.
The dogs are so highly trained they hear and obey only their handler’s voice commands while working, with the ability to block out noises or words that may be uttered by a fleeing suspect, Tomasini said.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Park Commission, which manages 20,197 acres consisting of 38 facilities, 244.3 miles of trails, including 73.3 miles of Patriots’ Path trail, recently announced a No Smoking Policy to conform with the New Jersey State’s Chapter Law 64 of prohibition of smoking at public parks and beaches.
The smoking prohibition policy of the Morris County Park Commission bans smoking in any park, forest, beach, arboreta, historic site, recreation facility, arena, reservation, marina, trail, greenway, education facility under the park Commission’s stewardship responsibility.
This policy, as adopted by the Commissioners, will provide a smoke-free environment for everyone, including children, to enjoy their experience at these public facilities. The policy will be strictly enforced and applies to both the public, as well as employees. Any person not compliant with posted smoking rules shall first be given verbal notification; if upon such notification the person fails to comply with the posted rules, the Supervisor of the area may deny services.
Smoking is defined as the burning of, inhaling from, exhaling the smoke from, or the possession of lighted cigar, cigarette, pipe or any other mater of substance which contains tobacco or any other matter that can be smoked, or the inhaling or exhaling of smoke or vapor from an electronic smoking device.
Further, the policy states that electronic smoking device means an electronic device that can be used to deliver nicotine or other substances to the person inhaling from the device, including, but not limited to, an electronic cigarette, cigar, cigarillo, or pipe.
The Park Commission has determined that, Berkshire Valley Golf Course, Flanders Valley Golf Course, Pinch Brook Golf Course, and Sunset Valley Golf Course are the only park facilities where smoking is to be permitted by the public. Smoking is only permitted on turf play areas, excluding designated practice area, including driving ranges.
PARSIPPANY — February 8, 2019, will mark the fifth anniversary of Night to Shine, the unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs, ages 14 and older, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. In just four years, Night to Shine has truly become a worldwide movement and next month, more than 200,000 volunteers in more than 650 host churches will serve more than 100,000 honored guests simultaneously on one night, Friday, February 8, across all 50 states, 38 international locations in 23 countries and 35 different denominations! Once again this year, Liquid Church, 299 Webro Road will be a host church.
Night to Shine, Sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation will be held at Liquid Church
“We have been so blown away by how God has continued to grow Night to Shine. I never imagined that Night to Shine would have grown this way when we started in 2014, but it is definitely a reminder that we serve a limitless God,” shared Tim Tebow, Founder and Chairman of the Tim Tebow Foundation. “As I reflect on how far Night to Shine has come, I am just so thankful for every host church, volunteer, sponsor and donor who has answered the call over the past five years.”
Every guest of Night to Shine enters this complimentary event on a red carpet complete with a warm welcome from a friendly crowd and paparazzi. Once inside, guests receive the royal treatment, including hair and makeup stations, shoe shining areas, limousine rides, corsages and boutonnieres, a catered dinner, karaoke, prom favors for each honored guest and, of course, a dance floor… all leading up to the moment when each guest is crowned king or queen of the prom.
“The vision for Night to Shine is to love people with special needs, it’s to bring the church together and to ultimately change the world through the eyes of people with special needs. February 8th will truly be a night so many people will never forget as each guest is told how much they’re worth and that God loves them and that God has an amazing plan for their life,” shared Tim Tebow.
As sponsor of Night to Shine, the Tim Tebow Foundation provides each host church with the official 2019 Night to Shine Planning Manual, the official Night to Shine Prom Kit and personalized guidance and support from a Tim Tebow Foundation staff member. The foundation also is providing financial support to hundreds of churches needing assistance in hosting the event, and this year alone will contribute over $2 million in financial grants to ensure this night reaches as many people with special needs as possible. As Night to Shine’s official Global Corporate Partner, American Residential Services and its network of providers is a major factor in ensuring the foundation is able to continue sustaining the incredible growth of Night to Shine every year.
To be a part of this worldwide event click hereto find out where you can attend your local event, volunteer to celebrate people with special needs or donate to help make it all possible.
PARSIPPANY — Award-Winning Sports Journalist & Author, Hank Gola, will be signing copies of his newly-released and highly acclaimed book, City of Champions, the story of Garfield High School’s 1939 national championship football team. The signing will take place on Saturday, January 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Book Barn, 18 Pocono Road, Denville. The Book Barn will offer three books free with the purchase of one of his books.
Hank Gola has spent over four decades as a journalist, primarily covering professional football and golf for the New York Daily Newsand New York Post after starting his career at The Herald-News of Passaic, and the Daily Record, where he covered the Cosmos of the North American Soccer League and the New York Giants of the National Football League.
In City of Champions, Hank Gola, a veteran and award-winning football writer, unveils a long-forgotten game through research spanning newspaper accounts, over 75 personal interviews, letters, oral histories, game films, recordings and photos.
Gola mines stories of the towns and the lives of the players and coaches–detailing the grit (and wild strokes of luck and fortune) that led up the Christmas night game. In a larger context, these two teams and the landmark 1939 season mirror interwar America, offering new perspectives on some of the pressing cultural, economic and socio-political issues of the era. Above all, City of Champions is a story of everyday heroes and lives well-lived.
PARSIPPANY — Automated external defibrillators will be required at all college athletic facilities under Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce’s legislation advanced today by the Higher Education Committee.
“Defibrillators save lives,” said DeCroce. “If a person suffers a sudden cardiac attack the chance of survival increases exponentially when an automated shock is administered. Automatic defibrillators are easy for any untrained bystander to use. By following the simple instructions, they can save a life.”
Sudden cardiac attacks are rare in young athletes, but they are often fatal. When an automatic defibrillator is used, the survival rate for student athletes is 64 percent, and as high as 90 percent when aid is rendered within the first minute.
DeCroce’s bill (A1368) requires two staff members trained in CPR and the use of automatic defibrillators in athletic facilities or student centers during operating hours.
“A college student who survives a brush with death due to a previously undiagnosed heart problem can go on to live a long, productive life with the appropriate medical care,” said DeCroce. “A defibrillator on the wall in a college gym can be the key to the future for any of the young people competing on the floor, or watching in the stands.”
For every minute that passes without defibrillation after a sudden cardiac attack, the chance of survival decreases by 10 percent.
State law requires automatic defibrillators at state buildings and K-12 schools, health clubs, nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
MORRIS COUNTY — PBA 298 Morris County Sheriff’s Office: Bureau of Corrections and Morris County Sheriff’s Office PBA Local 151 donated $3,000 to the Carol W. Julius A. Rippel Breast Center at Morristown Memorial Center. The donation was made in memory of Lisa Di Palma Bonfiglio, who passed away in 2009.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Correctional Facility in Morris Township has been accredited for a sixth consecutive time, mastering standards set by the American Correctional Association for jails on nutrition, security, cleanliness and quality of life.
A three-member team of auditors for the American Correctional Association, a private, non-profit corrections accrediting group, toured, examined records, and talked to staff and inmates at the 18-year-old county jail over a three-day period in May.
The tour culminated last weekend with reaccreditation of the jail during an ACA conference in New Orleans. Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, jail Warden Christopher Klein and other top correctional officers answered final questions posed by an ACA panel before learning the jail was re-accredited for a three-year period.
They were told the jail had the rare distinction of being one of the few county jails in the nation that achieved 100 percent compliance scores on 383 standards evaluated by the auditors. Nationwide, fewer than 150 county jails out of more than 3,000 are accredited.
“I am truly proud of this accomplishment by the correctional facility’s sworn and civilian staff, the professionalism they show every day, and the humane environment they maintain for inmates,” said Gannon.
Warden Christopher Klein said the reaccreditation is a testament to the commitment of the facility’s staff that includes 165 sworn officers and 19 medical personnel.
“It’s always good to have outsiders come in and reaffirm the good work our staff does. The standards by the American Correctional Association are above and beyond state standards,” he said.
The jail was built for a population of 524 inmates and housed an average of 233 individuals at the time of the audit. Inmates ranged from age 18 to 75.
The audit’s findings established:
The jail has a well-integrated and well-designed security system that includes staff control of all entrances, exits and doors.
The facility provides a comfortable, clean environment to live and work, with adequate shower units.
Sanitation is given “a very high priority,” according to the audit. Inmates, under staff supervision, clean the facility and cleaning supplies are carefully distributed and inventoried after use.
The health services unit provides 24-hour medical services and is staffed with people “who appeared to care a great deal about the welfare of the inmates and the work they do,” the report stated.
Social service specialists complete biopsychosocial intakes on all incoming inmates and provide assistance in adjustment to confinement and work with inmates on discharge planning.
Inmates can participate in observing the religion of their choice. The jail has a full-time chaplain, who coordinates access to other clergy and volunteers to visit inmates upon request.
The jail has had no consent decrees, class action lawsuits or adverse judgments in at least three years, the last time accreditation was granted.
Morris County Jail Lt. Michael Morsch, Capt. Steve Piatti, Capt. James Janzen, Warden Chris Klein. In back, Officer Mike Chereches
PARSIPPANY — On Monday, January 21, eBorg Robotics will be hosting a free FIRST Robotics Workshop and STEM Career Day.
The event will take place at the Parsippany PAL, 33 Baldwin Road, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. All the local Robotics teams are invited to the event to showcase their robot and related material to inspire students. The teams have coordinated a panel of doctors, engineers, professors, and technocrats to speak about their experiences, give advice, and inspire a future generation to be involved in STEM. Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano will also be in attendance.
All middle and high school students who are interested in this event are welcome to attend.
eBorg Robotics participate in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC). The goal of FTC is to ensure students develop STEM skills by designing and building robots to solve an annual challenge, learn to raise funds, and do community outreach. Each season ends with the State and then FIRST Championship. First Robotics Competition teams are guided by solid principles of teamwork, graciousness, professionalism and competing teams are in cooperation and harmony even during competitions. Senior Satish Natarajan of the Lancers Robotics team said, “FTC provides a setting that deepens my understanding of pressing engineering issues and applications of technology which is truly an incredible experience.”
In April 2018, eBorg Robotics competed in the World Championship for the FIRST Tech Challenge competition. Only one hundred out of over 61,000 teams, selected through a rigorous process of qualifier, state, and regional competitions, were able to compete. At the World Championship, then rookie eBorg Robotics ranked within the top twenty teams amongst well-seasoned, veteran teams. Team Coach Amit Joglekar described the team saying, “What powers the human hands are not just one or two fingers, but it’s the synchronized effort of all the uniquely gifted yet diverse tactile members. I believe the same is true for the power behind our Team.”
This season, eBorg Robotics won the Inspire Award at the Southeastern Pennsylvania qualifier, given to the team that most embodies the values of FIRST, qualifying them to participate in the Pennsylvania State Championship. The team also received the Think Award, awarded to teams with the most creative robot design processes and engineering notebook documentation and Inspire Second Place at the New Jersey qualifier.
Technical documentation and CAD Protyping Lead of eBorg Robotics Tej Shah said, “Through various setbacks and challenges, we as a team have grown significantly, developing stronger technical and communication skills. We understand that developing the robot iteratively through prototyping, building and programming is difficult and this season has been no exception. Nothing beats the joint feeling of elation when we solve tough problems that have long eluded us and that’s what makes it all worth it in the end!
eBorg Robotics strives to inspire and encourage students to pursue STEM in our local and global communities. Throughout this season alone, eBorg Robotics was able to make great strides in spreading STEM, specifically to students with less exposure. Through various outreaches and events, we conducted sessions with underprivileged and autistic students at the non-profit organizations Greater Life Center and Akhil Autism Foundation respectively. Software and Testing Lead of eBorg Robotics Emily Liew said, “Seeing the gears in their minds turning and their flames of curiosity sparking was truly an unforgettable experience and opportunity that was gratifying. Connecting with the students and children in our communities and giving back, allow me to believe that we are truly making an impact in their lives and leaving the world a little bit brighter than it was before.”
The teams hope to continue inspiring more children in their local and global communities to learn about Robotics and pursue careers in STEM and the upcoming FIRST Robotics Workshop and STEM Career day marks a beginning of their goal.
PARSIPPANY — Wise Animal Rescue held a “Dine to Donate” at the Parsippany IHOP and raised $200.00 for the organization.
IHOP Parsippany Manager Edgar Ortella hands a donation check to Tiziana Bartelli, President and Founder of Wise Animal Rescue.
Wise Animal Rescue is dedicated to rescuing dogs of all ages and breeds from places where they are no longer wanted or are not being properly cared for. By partnering with veterinary practices that support our work, we are able to save dogs’ lives and restore them back to health.
Central to their mission is to ensure that all dogs are spayed/neutered, up-to-date on shots, and microchipped. Prior to adoption, all of the dogs are placed into responsible loving foster homes to be socialized and trained rather than put in a shelter environment.
For more information on Wise Animal Rescue, click here.
PARSIPPANY — The freshman Democratic congresswoman, Mikie Sherrill, held an open house on Monday, January 14 during the first “Monday with Mikie” event that packed supporters into her new office suite located at 8 Wood Hollow Road.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill during the first “Monday with Mikie” at her office in Parsippany
“An accessible, centrally-located district office is incredibly important to me and my staff,” said Sherrill. “I am looking forward to welcoming residents to their New Jersey office and continuing an open dialogue with the community.”
“I had promised one of first things I would do is have a Monday with Mikie. I want to make sure I’m as accessible as possible,” said Sherrill, with the first town hall meeting set for next Tuesday, January 22, at 7:00 p.m. in the Hanover Community Center.
When the shutdown is resolved, she plans to press hard for the Gateway Tunnel project, and work with New Jersey’s delegation to reverse the federal cap on state and local tax deductions, she said.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano said “I am elated to have Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill open her congressional office in our town. Aside from the fact that the people of Parsippany overwhelmingly showed their support for Mikie last November.Parsippany is a smart choice because we sit at the crossroads of North Jersey.”
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill with Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Mimi Letts
“I’m really glad I had the opportunity to meet Mikie Sherrill at “Monday with Mikie.” Listening to her speak at the event strengthened my confidence in both her leadership and convictions. It’s refreshing to have an accessible representative who will bring the concerns of all constituents, even high school students like me, to Washington. I look forward to following everything she accomplishes for NJ District 11″ said Parsippany High School Senior Bella Rocco.
Monday’s crowd of about 100 people included Morris County Democratic Chairman Chip Robinson, Parsippany Mayor Michael Soriano, Former Parsippany Mayor Mimi Letts, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member Nicolas Limanov and Morristown’s First Lady Mary Dougherty, a realtor who helped Sherrill find the Parsippany office space.
Communications Directory Jackie Burns said “Office furniture and computer equipment was removed from Frelinghuysen’s office and is our office, but phones, and internet and some other essential needs to be established.”
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member Nicolas Limanov with Congresswoman Mikie SherrillParsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano, Morris County Democratic Chairman Chip Robinson and Livingston’s Billy FineMorristown’s First Lady Mary Dougherty, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano and Livingston’s Billy Fine
The new office is located at 8 Wood Hollow Road, Suite 203 and will be open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.The NJ Transit bus stop on Smith Road at Wood Hollow Road is a block away from the office. It is served by the 874 and 79 NJ Transit Bus Routes. Accessible via Routes 287, 202, 80, and 46.There is on-site parking at 8 Wood Hollow Road.
PARSIPPANY — Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey secured an assignment on the House Armed Service Committee for the 116th Congress. The House Armed Services Committee is responsible for all aspects of congressional oversight of the Department of Defense and authorization of military policy.
“As a former officer in the U.S. Navy, I understand the importance of a strong national defense and our enduring obligations to all the women and men who serve in uniform to secure our freedom. I am honored to join the committee and further their mission,” said Congresswoman Sherrill. “I intend to be an advocate for Picatinny Arsenal which plays a vital role in both our national defense and our local economy, and to address emerging national security threats such as climate change and cybersecurity.”
Located in Morris County, Picatinny Arsenal is a key national defense installation and an economic anchor in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District. Nearly 6,000 soldiers, federal employees, and contractors live on the base and in the surrounding towns and it contributes $1.3 billion to the economy of North Jersey. Picatinny is home to the Defense Department’s Joint Center of Excellence for Armaments and Munitions.
“The seminar was a vital opportunity for K-9 teams to learn from premier leaders how to deploy K-9s under specific scenarios to stop suspected violent offenders while keeping the community, themselves and their dogs safe,” Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon said.
PARSIPPANY — Award-Winning Sports Journalist & Author, Hank Gola, will be signing copies of his newly-released and highly acclaimed book, City of Champions, the story of Garfield High School’s 1939 national championship football team. The signing will take place on Saturday, January 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Book Barn, 18 Pocono Road, Denville. The Book Barn will offer three books free with the purchase of one of his books.
