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Morris County 4-H: Issues Highest Honors to Three Outstanding Teens

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County 4-H: Issues Highest Honors to Three Outstanding Teens

MORRIS COUNTY — Three high school students from Chester, Randolph, and Wharton recently earned the Morris County 4-H Club’s highest honors for their dedication to the 4-H program, outstanding leadership skills, and positive work in their communities.

Kristen Briney of Chester was named 4-Her of the Year. She is a member of the Dogs R Us 4-H dog-training club and Teen Council 4-H leadership club.

The 2018 National Leadership Award recipients were Elizabeth Kaufmann of Wharton and Johanna Pipoli of Randolph.

Elizabeth is a member of the Puppy Tails 4-H Seeing Eye puppy raising club and the Morris Marksmen 4-H shooting sports club.  Johanna is a member of several 4-H clubs including Be The Change community service club, Buckanears small animal club, Dogs R Us, Teen Council, and Wing Nuts poultry club.

These high honors were among some 400 awards presented to members of 18 clubs whose members range in age from kindergarten to high school.

The 18 clubs are: 4-Footed Leaders, Buckanears, Dogs R Us, Feathered Friends, Freedom Fields, Furry Friends, Just Kid N Around, Puppy Tails, Wing Nuts, Mad Stem Scientists, Radical Racers, Claybusters, Morris Marksmen, Knit Wits, Shutterbugs, Be the Change, Kids 4 Kindness and Teen Council. Download the list here.

The youngest 4-H members, in kindergarten through third grade were recognized for their achievements with the Cloverbud Shooting Star Award. Youth in grades 4 and up were eligible to receive the Clover Award in recognition of their work over the past year.

Club members who pushed their abilities and skills further were awarded the Achievement Award and Personal Development Award. Leaders of 4-H clubs also honored the teens who served as positive role models to younger members, went above and beyond to support their 4-H clubs, and took on a leadership role with the Teen Leadership Award.

Each year, 4-H members work to develop their skills in a certain area of their club’s focus. They document relevant financial records, time commitments, and project results in a record book. Kids in grades K-3 receive special recognition for their diligent work in these books while older members are eligible to receive Best in Show for outstanding record keeping.  Over 30 members received Best in Show medallions and all participants received judges’ feedback and award recognition for their work.

4H youths show off their stuff at a recent Morris County 4-H Fair

Morris County 4-H Clubs are made possible by the dedicated and caring adult volunteers who serve as club leaders. Each year these leaders are awarded for their years of service to 4-H. Over 60 adult volunteers were honored for their various years of service to the Morris County 4-H program. These caring adult volunteers help youth members grow their skills, knowledge, and abilities each year.

For more information on Morris County 4-H clubs, please contact the office at (973)-285-8301 or email 4hmorris@njaes.rutgers.edu or visit the website.

NJ Transit Board approves purchase of new rail cars

Frank L. Cahill
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NJ Transit Board approves purchase of new rail cars

NEWARK — The NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors today approved a contract with Bombardier for 113 new rail cars, which includes the first self-propelled multilevel rail cars in the United States.

“This historic purchase is the perfect example of how NJ TRANSIT is reclaiming its position as a national leader in transportation,” said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Kevin Corbett. “The new self-propelled multilevel cars break new ground in railroad technology and we’re proud that NJ TRANSIT is leading the way. With this investment, we’ll be able to retire the oldest rail cars in our fleet, while increasing reliability, efficiency and customer comfort.”

This order for 113 Multilevel III Passenger Vehicles, the largest order for rail cars in recent years by NJ TRANSIT, will allow the agency to replace the oldest rail cars in its fleet.

The cost for the contract will not exceed $670 million plus contingencies.

The purchase, which consists of 58 “power cars” with electric propulsion capability and 55 non-powered trailer cars, was approved as part of the Fiscal Year 2018 budget. A Request for Proposals (RFP) went out in October 2017.

The Multilevel III Power Cars are Electric Multiple Units (EMU’s), a multiple-unit train consisting of self-propelled cars using electricity as the motive power. An EMU requires no separate locomotive, as electric traction motors are incorporated within one or a number of the vehicles on the train.

The vehicles are scheduled to begin testing in the third quarter of 2022 and are expected to enter revenue service during the second quarter of 2023.

The Multilevel III Passenger Vehicles will replace the aging Arrow III EMUs, which are over 40 years old. The new cars increase seating capacity from 1,380 seats on a 12-car Arrow III train to 1,552 seats on a new 12-car Multilevel III train. The new cars will feature roomier two-by-two seating as opposed to the three-person bench seats that are currently on the Arrow III cars. Other customer amenities include USB charging ports for customers and new, onboard information displays.

The base order is for 58 multilevel power cars, 33 cab cars, 16 trailer cars and 6 trailer cars with restrooms. There are also options for an additional 636 cars to replace the remaining single-level cars and accommodate future growth

This purchase is allowing NJ TRANSIT to take a step toward the goal of having the overall average age of all rail vehicles under 30 years old, making for a more modern fleet that supports enhanced comfort, reliability and efficiency.

The benefits of the Multilevel III Passenger Vehicles include reduced operating costs, higher acceleration and an 11 percent increase in seating capacity. The Multilevels also have a higher Mean Distance Between Failure (MDBF); 370,575 miles, compared to 40,046 miles for the Arrow IIIs based on October 2018 data.

NanoGurus advanced to both the New Jersey and Pennsylvania State Championships

Frank L. Cahill
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NanoGurus advanced to both the New Jersey and Pennsylvania State Championships

PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, December 2, we competed at the Robo-Tussle New Jersey Qualifier in Chatham and came home with the prestigious Inspire Award! We also were nominated for the Connect, Motivate, and Think Awards. Our team is very excited to compete with the rest of the advancing New Jersey teams on March 10.

The following week on Saturday, December 8, we played at the West Central Pennsylvania Qualifier in Johnstown! At this event our robot performed extremely consistently, especially our autonomous.

After ranking first, we played an exhilarating round of finals and took home the Winning Alliance Captain title! The Pennsylvania Championship Tournament will be held on March 2nd and 3rd and we are eager to compete.

American Heart Association Recognizes Delta Dental for Workplace Health Achievement

Frank L. Cahill
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American Heart Association Recognizes Delta Dental for Workplace Health Achievement

PARSIPPANY — On November 28, 2018, Delta Dental of New Jersey (DDNJ) formally received the American Heart Association (AHA) 2018 Workplace Health Achievement Bronze Level Recognition as a result of the significant steps they took to build a culture of health in the workplace.

More than 1,000 companies completed the AHA 2018 Workplace Health Achievement Index assessment measuring the effectiveness of their workplace health programs, as well as the overall heart health of their employees. Of these companies, 75 percent received either Gold, Silver, or Bronze recognition and 33 of these companies were based in New Jersey.

The Bronze Level Recognition was presented to DDNJ by Peter Cary, Senior Director of Corporate Health and Mission Engagement for the AHA. Companies recognized at the Bronze Level achieved an index score of 86-129 out of a maximum 217 points.

“At Delta Dental of New Jersey, our employees’ health and wellness is a priority and ingrained into our corporate culture,” said Dennis Wilson, CEO and President of Delta Dental of New Jersey. “We are honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association and will continue to invest in the health and well-being of our more than 250 employees in both New Jersey and Connecticut.”

The Index was created by the AHA’s CEO Roundtable members, a leadership collaborative of more than 40 CEOs from some of America’s largest companies who are committed to creating healthy companies and communities. According to the Nielsen 2016 Employee Health Survey, robust and comprehensive strategies for well-being are associated with positive impacts on employees’ health.

DDNJ offers its employees a variety of wellness programs, including: a walking club, stairwell challenges, Weight Watchers, blood pressure screenings, BMI assessments, yoga and other exercise classes in their wellness room, health-related educational sessions on various topics, including oral health, diabetes, and smoking cessation. DDNJ will continue to provide health-related programs to continuously improve the health and well-being of their associates.

Delta Dental of New Jersey, Inc. is New Jersey’s leading dental benefits company, providing or administering coverage to more than 1.7 million people through contracts with groups in New Jersey and Connecticut. In Connecticut, Delta Dental of Connecticut, Inc. is a licensed insurer that writes dental coverage on an insured basis, and Delta Dental of New Jersey administers self-funded dental benefit programs. For more information click here.

The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, click here or call any of our offices around the country. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Kwaku Agyemang was awarded first place for his entrepreneurship with a business

Frank L. Cahill
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Kwaku Agyemang was awarded first place for his entrepreneurship with a business

Rutgers University senior Kwaku Agyemang was awarded first place for his entrepreneurship with a business he co-owns: BrownMill Company (BrownMillCompany.com), a Piscataway-based fashion company on a mission to reduce the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills. Agyemang received a $1,500 cash prize and will advance to the next round of the competition taking place on January 10th and 11th in Denver, Colorado – and possibly to the global finals in Macau.

Runner-up was awarded to Princeton University Junior Todd Baldwin for  his entrepreneurship with WellPower,  a sustainable solution to off-grid clean water access.

“These college students are amazing. While studying for their various degrees, they are creating the future of New Jersey and opportunities for the US. We are so proud to have Kwaku Agyemang represent New Jersey at the National Finals,” said Michael Schofel, EO’s New Jersey’s GSEA Chair and Managing Partner of Eastman Companies. “We also thank the extraordinary efforts of the many New Jersey businesses and entrepreneurs from the state’s chapter of EO who helped make this happen, thanks to lending their expertise in finance, marketing, branding, and serial Entrepreneurship.”

We would love if you could help share the word on this year’s local winner! Please let me know if you would be interested in speaking with Michael Schofel, EO’s New Jersey’s GSEA Chair and Managing Partner of Eastman Companies or Kwaku Agyemang.

The Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) is an international program of Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), a global network of entrepreneurs helping the seeds grow in Houston and throughout the world with a membership of 13,000 entrepreneurs in 57 countries and more than 3.4 million employees worldwide.

Parsippany PBA and UPS donates toys to JBWS

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany PBA and UPS donates toys to JBWS
Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrolman Luke Crol carrying some of the toys donated by the employees of UPS

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills PBA Local 131 and the employees of the UPS Innovation Center located at 10 Upper Pond Road collected over 250 toys for this years annual toy-drive.

This year’s recipient was Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS) an organization aimed at helping domestic violence victims and their families.

Many thanks to the UPS employees who donated toys at their facility along with the residents of Parsippany who placed toys in the donation box located at Police Headquarters.

Jersey Battered Women’s Service in Morris County is a full-service domestic violence and domestic abuse prevention agency with volunteer opportunities. The services include a 24-hour hotline; counseling; safe house; transitional living; children’s services; life skills education; vocational counseling; batterers’ intervention; legal assistance; teen dating violence services; and professional training, education and youth prevention programs.

Morris County Dems seeking interns

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Dems seeking interns

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Democratic Committee is looking for interns for the spring of 2018 to help us in our efforts to get Democrats elected at all levels of government in Morris County.

2018 was a historic year for Morris County and in 2019, we have a chance to win a record number of local, county and Assembly races.

MCDC Interns will:

  • Manage social media for various campaigns
  • Recruit, train and manage volunteers
  • Coordinate voter outreach efforts
  • Draft press releases, speeches, scripts, and statements for candidates
  • Staff candidates at events
  • Help plan and organize events

If you or someone you know is interested in an internship with the Morris County Democratic Committee, please contact us at info@morrisdems.org or call us at (862) 260-9444.

Dinsmore announces first round of support: State Committeeman Casha, Former Chair Page and Former Freeholder Lyon all endorse

Frank L. Cahill
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Dinsmore announces first round of support: State Committeeman Casha, Former Chair Page and Former Freeholder Lyon all endorse

MORRIS COUNTY — Republican Leader Donald Dinsmore confirmed that he is indeed  a candidate for Morris County Freeholder.  “I am ready to use my experience in the private, public and non-profit sectors to benefit Morris County.” This announcement also comes with broad support from within the Republican Community.

Harding Township Mayor Christopher Yates stated “Don approaches every challenge intelligently and pragmatically, and he has helped his Town maintain its unique character, I know he can do the same for Morris County.”

Additionally, William Felegi President of the Jefferson Republican Club stated, “I have known Don for years, his commitment to improving our community and furthering the Republican cause is exceptional.”

County-wide Officials
Larry Casha, Republican State Committeeman
Hank Lyon, Former Morris County Freeholder
Patti Page, Former Morris County Republican Chair
Richard Wall, Former Morris County Undersheriff and Treasurer of Washington Township Republican Committee
James Barry,Former State Assemblyman

Local Officials & Activists
Marie Fragomeni, President, Boonton Republican Club
Doug Travers, Councilman, Borough of Butler
Bruce Harris, Mayor, Borough of Chatham
Len Resto, Councilman, Borough of Chatham
Curt Ritter, Mayor, Township of Chatham
Gene Fitzgerald, Former Councilman, Township of Denville
Kevin Scollans, Former Councilman, Township of Denville
Carol Spencer, Former Mayor and Councilwoman, Township of Denville
Susan Tietjan, Former Councilwoman, Township of East Hanover
Carmen Cefolo-Pane, Council President Borough of Florham Park
Christopher Yates, Mayor, Harding Township
Timothy Jones, Committeeman, Harding Township
Dev Modi, Committeeman, Harding Township
Nanette DiTosto, Committeewoman, Harding Township
Louis Lanzerotti,  Former Mayor and Committeeman Harding Township
Mike Flanagan, Republican Activist, Harding Township
William Felegi, Republican Club President- Jefferson Township and Former Vice-Chair Morris County Young Republicans
Jayson Kohut, Chairman, Jefferson Township Republican Committee
Jerry Stevenson, Former Republican Club President, Borough of Madison
June Witty, Councilwoman, Township of Montville
Lisa LoBiondo- Former President, Montville Republican Club
Jonathan Wright, Former Chairman, Morristown Republican Committee
Gene Paradiso, Republican Club President, Borough of Mount Arlington
Alex Roman, Councilman, Township of Mount Olive
Louis Valori, Chairman, Parsippany-Troy Hill Republican Committee, former Council President Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills
Karen Jordan, President, Randolph Republican Club
Gregg Forsbrey, Committeeman, Township of Washington
Bill Wolgamuth, President, Washington Township Republican Club
Chris Gabbett, Millennial Republican Activist and Madison County Committee Member
Jordan Chester, Former Vice Chair Morris County Young Republicans

Please note: Statements of endorsement are in those individual’s personal capacity, and are not necessarily an endorsement of the organization which they represent.

My name is Chalupa and I’m a 4-year-old Chihuahua!

Frank L. Cahill
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My name is Chalupa and I’m a 4-year-old Chihuahua!

PARSIPPANY — Hi! My name is Chalupa and I’m a 4-year-old Chihuahua!

I was rescued from a municipal, open-admissions shelter in New York who took me in when my family could no longer care for me. But, don’t be sad for me, now I can find my forever family!

My name is Chalupa and I’m a 4-year-old Chihuahua

My foster family says I do great with other dogs, cats, and kids! I am potty trained and am crate trained! And, guess what? I already know some basic commands!

My favorite place to hang out is right on top of a pillow on my foster family’s couch. This way I am at optimal height to get pets. What can I say? My name really should be King Chalupa!

Chalupa

I love having fun playing with my furry foster siblings. I also enjoy getting some belly rubs and meeting new people. My absolute favorite thing is when my family throws a party. I get so excited I can’t even contain myself! I love being best friends with everyone. I’m a social butterfly!

While I am definitely a fun dog, I am by no means hyper. I Netflix and chill on the couch as good as any other pup! I am really a perfect dog who’s well-trained, fun, happy, and affectionate.

If you are interested in adopting Chalupa, 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.

My foster family says I do great with other dogs, cats, and kids!

GOP offers minimum wage compromise with state sharing costs to increase after-tax income

Frank L. Cahill
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GOP offers minimum wage compromise with state sharing costs to increase after-tax income

MORRIS COUNTY — In a move toward a bipartisan wage hike, Republican Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco offered to help Democrats achieve higher take-home pay for minimum-wage earners without solely targeting employers.

“The business community is concerned about the ramp-up period,” explained Bucco (R-Morris).  “Assemblyman Hal Wirths and I put have put together a compromise that would raise the minimum wage over time to thirteen dollars an hour but increase the earned income tax credit to 80 percent.”

Bucco explained the plans while participating on a legislative panel with Senate President Steve Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin at the annual NJBIA public policy forum last Friday.

Democrat lawmakers are pushing an increase in the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour for most workers by 2024 and for all workers by 2029 under a plan put forward by Coughlin.

The Republican proposal increases the minimum wage to $13 over five years (A4464) and immediately raises the earned income tax credit to 80 percent of the federal level (A4465).

The plan also doubles the employer deduction for compensation paid by small businesses with less than 100 employees (A4466) to reduce higher labors costs from raising the minimum wage.

Bucco also raised concerns with the Democrat plan not protecting workers and businesses alike if there is an economic downturn.

“There has to be some sort of mechanism to slow this down if in fact we go into another deep recession like we saw in 2008,” said Bucco.

The GOP plan freezes the minimum wage for 18 months if employment drops over a three- or six-month period.

Bucco also cautioned lawmakers that raising the minimum wage without indexing the state’s income tax brackets could punish low-income earners by offsetting the potential pay raise with higher taxes.  Bucco sponsors a bill (A1399) that would adjust income-tax brackets to inflation so taxpayers don’t face tax hikes as a result of cost-of-living raises.

“As our low-income earners begin to see an increase in their salary they get pushed into the next tax bracket where they are now earning less,” asked Bucco.

Twenty-three states index their income tax brackets to inflation, and the federal government has since 1986.  It is widely considered a bipartisan tax policy to protect taxpayers from automatic tax hikes.

Governor Joins Parsippany’s Earth Friendly Products to Support $15 State Minimum Wage

Frank L. Cahill
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Governor Joins Parsippany’s Earth Friendly Products to Support $15 State Minimum Wage

PARSIPPANY — Governor Phil Murphy today joined Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, the president and CEO of Earth Friendly Products®, maker of more than 200 ECOS® brand green cleaning products, at the company’s Parsippany manufacturing plant located at 50 Lackawanna Avenue, to support a $15.00 state minimum wage and demonstrate how the company’s investment in its employees is fundamental to its long-term business success. Earth Friendly Products, which has operated in New Jersey for 30 years, starts employees at $17.00 an hour and increased its investment in the state’s economy and environment by opening a Parsippany facility in 2015 that is carbon neutral and Zero Waste Platinum certified.

Governor Phil Murphy and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano

Introducing Governor Phil Murphy was Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano. Soriano said “Parsippany is a great place to live, it’s also a great place to do business, even manufacturing. Earth Friendly Products takes care of its employees and worries about and takes cares of its environment. Right now, in the State of New Jersey if you work minimum wage for about 40 hours per week, for 52 weeks, no sick time, no vacation time you are going to make about $17,800 a year. That not a way to live. Think about that for one second. $17,800. I stand with Governor Murphy on promptly promoting our $15.00 minimum wage in the State of New Jersey. Our workforce deserves the same quality of living and standard that everyone enjoys. I am proud of Earth Friendly Products, with their line of ECOS products, operating right here in Parsippany. More money in employees pockets, means more money is being spending here in Parsippany, restaurants and retails stores. It’s going to boost our local economy and it’s going to help New Jersey. Contributing to a thriving small business culture.”

A Bronze Custom Portrait Sculpture of Kelly’s father, Van Vlahakis is displayed in the lobby of the Parsippany location

New Jersey legislators are considering legislation that would raise the state minimum wage to $15.00. Earth Friendly Products, a member of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, strongly supports raising New Jersey’s minimum wage to $15.00 an hour for all workers because it will boost consumer demand, benefit businesses in the form of lower employee turnover and increased employee productivity, and is vital to creating a sustainable economy.

“We know from our own experience that raising the minimum wage to $15.00 will help businesses and employees thrive,” Vlahakis-Hanks said. “We start employees at $17.00 an hour and provide great benefits while selling our products at competitive prices. Investing in our employees has improved our profitability, productivity, employee retention, quality control, customer satisfaction and ability to innovate and grow. Our products are produced in our U.S. facilities in New Jersey, California, Illinois and Washington state. We’re proud to say that our employees are our greatest brand ambassadors.”

ECOS® brand laundry detergent, household cleaners, baby products and pet products are sold at competitive prices in outlets ranging from small retailers to giants like Costco, Walmart and Target. Established in 1967, Earth Friendly Products attributes its decades of success to investing in employees, as well as breaking barriers in green science.

“A $15 minimum wage will not only lift up the current generation of New Jersey working families, but ensure fairness and opportunity for future generations,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “For the more than one million New Jersey workers who earn less than $15.00 an hour, the Legislature needs to act immediately to provide working families with the raise they need to live secure lives. A $15.00 minimum wage is integral to building a stronger and fairer New Jersey.”

Vlahakis-Hanks sees a fair state minimum wage as a powerful tool in stimulating across-the-board economic growth, from the neighborhood corner store to leading manufacturers like Earth Friendly Products.

“Raising the minimum wage creates a virtuous cycle of rising wages, consumer demand and job creation,” Vlahakis-Hanks said. “I can’t think of a faster, more direct way to boost the local business economy—yes, including sales of our cleaning products—than to put more money in the pockets of New Jersey workers. It’s a pro-business policy that I’d like to see extended to all New Jersey businesses and workers.”

Today’s plant tour and press conference comes as legislators weigh $15.00 minimum wage legislation. Last week, Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin introduced a bill that puts New Jersey’s minimum wage on a path to $15.00 an hour by January 2024 for some workers while businesses with fewer than 10 employees would not reach $15 until January of 2029—more than a decade from now.

“Rebranding Shop Small as Pay Small is the last thing small businesses need,” said Business for a Fair Minimum Wage CEO Holly Sklar. “We support a clean minimum wage bill that treats employees at businesses of all sizes the same—not giving employees of large corporations a raise, while workers at small businesses lag far behind. That would hurt New Jersey’s small businesses and diminish the consumer spending boost that comes from raising wages. Shortsighted small businesses that pay the lower minimum wage would have trouble hiring, see an increase in turnover as employees look elsewhere for pay they can live on, and undercut the customer service that keeps people coming through their doors.”

Earth Friendly Products has five plants located in Parsippany; Cypress, California; Addison, Illinois; Lacey, Washington and Athens, Greece.

Earth Friendly Products is a proud member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Benjamin Comora graduates from Troy University

Frank L. Cahill
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Benjamin Comora graduates from Troy University

PARSIPPANY —  Benjamin Comora graduated from Troy University during Term 1 of the 2018/2019 academic year.

Comora attended the Dothan Campus graduated with the Master of Business Administration degree.

Term 1 includes students at TROY’s campuses in Dothan, Phenix City and Montgomery, Ala., along with teaching sites outside of Alabama and online.

Troy University is a public, historic, international university with more than 145,000 alumni. Students choose TROY for its quality academic programs, reasonable costs and availability of financial aid, outstanding faculty, and flexible in-class and online class offerings. Students on the Troy, Ala. campus enjoy a traditional college experience, while working adult students are the centers of attention at campuses in Dothan, Montgomery and Phenix City, Ala., as well as at locations around the world and online.

Parsippany Education Foundation Awards $13,057.64 in Grants to Parsippany Schools

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Education Foundation Awards $13,057.64 in Grants to Parsippany Schools

PARSIPPANY — Supporting educational enrichment in the township, the Parsippany Education Foundation has awarded $13,057.64 to fund ten innovative programs during the 18-19 school year.  Spanning robotics, life skills, storytelling, music and literature, proposals were developed by teachers approved by principals and evaluated by the Foundation based on their ability to contribute to a positive, dynamic learning environment.

Blending life and business skill development for middle school students with special learning needs at Brooklawn Middle School, the “Up All Knight Cafe” will be an ongoing snack and coffee concession run by students focused on interpersonal communication plus forecasting, inventory control, production and cash management.  “The Cafe is a wonderful program we will use to apply academic and social training to the real world challenges of running a small business.  We are delighted to bring this opportunity to our students through the generosity of the Parsippany Educational Foundation and their donors,” said Teacher Laura Bailliard.

“Through the Chipwrecks and Redbots grant, our new student robotics club will be able to design and build a robot to compete in the worldwide First Tech Challenge from the organization For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST).  Robotics challenges our students to solve problems across physics, computer science, mathematics, CAD engineering and more,” said Teacher Ellesa Effner of Parsippany Hills High School.

A check for $13,057.64 was presented to the Parsippany Board of Education by Parsippany Education Foundation President Stella Gizas, Recording Secretary Debbie Bogaert and ex officio member and Parsippany BOE member Joseph Cistaro, on November 15.  “Our Parsippany Education Foundation serves as Guardian Angels for our educators.  They work hard to fundraise and support our teachers and administrators in bringing innovative and meaningful learning opportunities that reflect our district’s Strategic Plan and enrich our students’ school lives,” said Dr. Barbara Sargent, Superintendent of the Parsippany Troy Hills School District.

The Parsippany Educational Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization established in 1996 to enrich the opportunities and experiences of students in the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District. The Foundation has contributed over $350,000 in grants to the district raised through private donors, annual spring golf outing and events held through the year.  Its Board of Directors consists of volunteers committed to developing a community of learners.

Please visit their website by clicking here  for more information and like their Facebook page.

Knoll Golf Club Information Meeting

Frank L. Cahill
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Knoll Golf Club Information Meeting

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will be hosting an informative meeting on Wednesday, December 19, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Knoll West Grille Room.

They will be producing the long term vision, master place for both Knoll courses, going over 2019 membership and programming options, closing with an open question and answer seminar.

Click here to register, in an attempt to have a headcount to deliver to the caterer with ample time. We would love for you all to attend. Appetizers will be served.

Knoll Country Club West is located at 990 Greenbank Road Boonton, NJ 07005 (For GPS purposes).

What Happened After Once Upon a Time … The play by Alex Alfieri

Frank L. Cahill
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What Happened After Once Upon a Time … The play by Alex Alfieri

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Christian School Forensics class will be performing its first play of the school year this Friday night, December 14 at 7:00 p.m. at Parsippany Baptist Church at 1179 Littleton Road.

The play by Alex Alfieri is titled, What Happened After Once Upon a Time. According to Tara Marine, director and Forensics teacher, “It’s the story of some well known fairy tale characters including Cinderella, Snow White, and Jack and the Bean Stalk. We all think we know these characters pretty well, but in Alfieri’s humorous interpretation, their stories are not all that accurate. Cinderella is an OCD neat freak who really didn’t want to go to the ball. Snow White is a drill sergeant, and so it’s a humorous spin on some of your favorite fairy tale characters.”
 
The play is pure fun for all the actors who range in age from nine to eighteen. Some of the cast have been part of Parsippany Christian’s Forensics program for five years under Marine’s direction. 
 
Grace Reinke plays the lead role of the story teller. Marine says, “She has a very natural and sensitive understanding of the character whose emotions range from euphoria at meeting  her childhood fairy tale idols and then absolute chagrin when she learns what these characters are really like.”
 
The role of Rapunzel is played by Katheryn Jurado who won first place the last two years in state forensic competitions in both drama and poetry categories.
 
The role of Jack is played by Logan Marine who has also won first place two years in a row in the state forensics competition in Humorous Interpretation. The Big Bad Wolf is played by Matthew Rotondo, another state completion winner. Other members of Marine’s cast have been part of her award winning Readers’ Theatre and Acting groups. 
 
What Happened After Once Upon a Time opens on Friday, December 14 at 7:00 pm. Admission is free and the play is good, clean fun for any age group.

Bucco, DeCroce solution to Class III police officer shortage in schools advances in Assembly committee

Frank L. Cahill
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Bucco, DeCroce solution to Class III police officer shortage in schools advances in Assembly committee

MORRIS COUNTY — An Assembly panel advanced a measure requested by Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco and Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce to address a shortage of Class III police officers to protect our schools.  The bill (A1400) makes retired state and county corrections officers eligible for the classification.

State Assemblyman Anthony Bucco. (File Photo)

The program was initiated through legislation sponsored by Bucco and signed into law in 2016 by then-Governor Chris Christie. The law allows retired police officers to work in schools to help protect the community. Law enforcement experts have predicted a shortage of available officers because of the stringent hiring requirements and an increase in demand by municipalities and school districts.

“Schools have scrambled to find retired police officers for several years and we want to make sure that more trained officers are available before they have to hire private security guards with less experience and at a higher cost,” said Bucco (R-Morris). “More than ever before, schools across the state are looking for special police officers to help protect our school communities.  These officers are in demand because they often come from the community and are familiar with the local police department and the school system.”

The uniformed, armed officers work part time and get paid at a lower scale, making it the most affordable option for placing guards in schools.  The special officers are paid about $30 or $40 an hour and are not entitled to a pension or benefits for their service, but they still report to the local chief of police.

“Retired corrections officers are job tested and proven in high-pressure situations,” said DeCroce (R-Morris).  “Their experience calming tensions and resolving confrontation will make the halls, cafeterias and playgrounds safer, and they will be ready to immediately respond to emergencies.”

A version of the bill (A4451) passed the Assembly 75-0 in May 2017 but was not taken up in the state Senate.

Pennacchio Blasts Conagra for ‘Gutless’ Christmas Layoffs Announcement 

Frank L. Cahill
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Pennacchio Blasts Conagra for ‘Gutless’ Christmas Layoffs Announcement 

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio today blasted Conagra for announcing, two weeks before Christmas, that they will eliminate more than 500 jobs in New Jersey, including more than 300 positions in Parsippany, a town in the senator’s district.

Senator Joe Pennacchio

Senator Joe Pennacchio blasted Conagra for announcing, two weeks before Christmas, that they will eliminate more than 500 jobs in New Jersey, including more than 300 positions in Parsippany, a town in the senator’s district.

“I have one thing to say to Conagra – shame on you,” Senator Pennacchio said. “Announcing layoffs two weeks before Christmas is a gutless and soulless thing to do.”

Conagra announced that it will eliminate 308 jobs at Pinnacle Food’s former headquarters in Parsippany, and 196 jobs at the Woodcrest Road offices in Cherry Hill, according to a December 8, 2018 Parsippany Focus article (click here for full article).

“Conagra just purchased Pinnacle in October. They knew exactly what they were doing. They couldn’t care less about the hundreds of people who have spent years working in Parsippany,” Pennacchio added.

“I am a strong supporter of the business community, but I’ll always put my constituents first. There is no denying that Governor Murphy’s bad-for-business agenda is forcing companies out of state, but to be clear – that’s not what happened here. Conagra knew what they were getting into. It seems like they bought Pinnacle, just to make a quick buck. That is shameful.

“If any of the families who are coping with these layoffs are in need of toys for their children, or any other type of assistance in the wake of this upheaval, please reach out to my district office by calling (973) 227-4012. We will help you in any way we can.”

Zwigard to lead Morris County Republican Victory PAC

Frank L. Cahill
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Zwigard to lead Morris County Republican Victory PAC

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Republican Victory PAC (MRVP) has appointed Robert Zwigard as its new Chairman. According to Zwigard, former Executive Director of MRVP, “I am pleased to take over this organization that has a 14-year history supporting Republican success in Morris County”. I would also like to thank Tim Smith for his leadership of the PAC as Chair in 2018”. Smith resigned this November because he is moving to Florida.

MRVP has helped campaigns through financial, strategic and in-kind grass-roots support of municipal and other campaigns throughout Morris County. In 2018 MRVP opened a centrally located Morristown campaign office that hosted volunteers who made greater than 20,000 calls and distributed hundreds of signs and thousands of literature packets in support of the Republican ticket from the local to the county to the federal level. MRVP also gave support to local campaigns.

In 2019, MRVP plans to continue to work with fellow Republicans to broaden the party’s base and help increase Republican victories and turnout on the local level.

According to Zwigard, “We are ready to work hard to bring resources to key Morris municipalities to help them spread the Republican message of efficient and effective government leadership. We look forward to helping to increase economic success and quality of life of Morris County residents by promoting Republican principles.”

Morris County Young Republicans installs new officers

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County Young Republicans installs new officers

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Young Republicans installed their 2019 officers at their annual Holiday Party. The officers are Sydney Ugalde, President; Brian Mulligan, Vice President; Julie Laptaka, Secretary; Joe Bock, Treasurer; Justin Musella – State Committeeman, Morris Township; and Tia Fritze, State Committeewoman, Roxbury.

This event, sponsored by Sheriff James Gannon was attended by Morris County Republicans, including numerous Elected Officials including Freeholders Tom Mastrangelo, Heather Darling and Kathryn A. DeFillippo.

Sydney Ugalde honored Morris Plains Mayor Frank Druetzler as honorary chair. Brielle Cook received a plaque for Volunteer of the Year.

The Morris County chapter of the Young Republicans is one of the most influential in the state, and is affiliated with the New Jersey Young Republican Federation and the Young Republican National Federation.

At Morris County Young Republicans Christmas Party & Installation at Lake Valhalla Country Club in Montville – Great new slate of officers sworn in by Sheriff James Gannon including Sydney Ugalde, President, Joe Bock, Brielle Cook and Justin Musella
Sydney Ugalde gives a tribute to retiring 32-year Morris Plains Mayor Frank Dreutzler
Justin Musella, Joe Bock, Sydney Ugalde and Brielle Cook, President Montville Republican Club
Sheriff James Gannon swearing in the officers for Morris County Young Republicans, while Ken Schwemmer holds the bible.

The Morris County Young Republicans are determined to grow our membership and build strong Republican networks in all of the 39 municipalities in Morris County. They encourage YOU and anyone you know to join their club by donating yearly dues of just $35.00. You may bring a check made payable to “Morris County Young Republicans” to their next meeting, or mail a check to our office at 26 Schuyler Place, Morristown, NJ 07960. You can also pay online by credit card by visiting the “Contribute” page on our website. Membership dues allow our club to grow and run events that benefit Republicans at all levels. For club voting rights, members must be registered Republicans between ages 18-40 and live in Morris County but they welcome any of their friends outside of those requirements to join as Associate Members and to attend all of the events.

For more information on Morris County Young Republicans, click here.

1 United MMA House celebrates First Anniversary

Frank L. Cahill
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1 United MMA House celebrates First Anniversary

PARSIPPANY — Recently, 1 United MMA House celebrated its “First Anniversary” with a ribbon cutting ceremony by Mayor Michael Soriano and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce.

Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member Ildiko Peluso, Nicolas Limanov, President Robert Peluso and Executive Board Member Frank Cahill attended the ceremony.

1 United Mixed Martial Arts House aims to create a positive atmosphere for their clients by upholding the highest levels of integrity and character. They are here to help our members reach their goals whether physical or mental.

Family members with Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill with owners Yusuf Yoldas and Ibrahim Yoldas

Owner Yusuf Yoldas said “after over a decade of experience in both training in mixed martial arts, I pride myself on sharing the knowledge and skills I have attained with my students. I started training at the age of 13 and took a break along the way to dedicate my time to soccer. After becoming a top player in my high school and various club teams, I returned to martial arts and attained my black belt at the age of 18. In 2010 entered the world of strength and conditioning and became a professional MMA competitor. I have traveled the country and trained under dozens of professional athletes who offered me a great deal of information. This has allowed me to attend various conventions in which I advanced my skill level.  By learning a great deal about mixed martial arts and strength and conditioning I am able to better assist my students in reaching their fitness goals. Combining these two skills has allowed me to gain insights into two completely different forms of art that complement each other perfectly. Helping students of all ages has allowed me to gain a sense of self-fulfillment that I would not otherwise experience, allowing me to truly say that teaching has become my pride and joy.”

Owner Ibrahim Yoldas, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill and Owner Yusuf Yoldas ready to cut the ribbon celebrating 1 United MMA House First Anniversary Celebration

His brother, Ibrahim Yoldas, said “Coming from a family having three siblings, I realized that setting the example for my younger brother Abdu was very important to me. I always followed in the footsteps of my older brother Yusuf and I wanted to instill the same values in my younger brother. Seeing my older brother train daily inspired me to start training by the age of 14. After a certain amount of time I grew to realize that it’s not all about fighting, it’s about discipline. Within four years of training, I prepared my mind and body to work at the same pace in order to obtain my black belt by the age of 18. Over the course of the next four years I apprenticed at a local personal training studio and health club where I learned how to cater to all age groups and with clients who had pre existing medical conditions and specific injuries. I value and appreciate all the people that contributed to my growth up to this point, which in turn lead my brothers and I to embark on this new journey.”

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano cuts the ribbon celebrating 1 United MMA House anniversary
Owner Ibrahim Yoldas, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso, Mayor Michael Soriano, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill and Owner Yusuf Yoldas celebrating 1 United MMA House First Anniversary Celebration

1 United MMA House  is located at 96 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha.

 

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Parsippany Focus is a digital news organization that provides news coverage of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1989 by Frank Cahill, who currently owns and operates the organization. Parsippany Focus covers local news, events, and community issues, and their content is primarily distributed through their website and social media channels. The organization has been serving as a trusted source of news and information for the Parsippany-Troy Hills community for over 30 years.

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