Monday, November 18, 2024
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Distracted Driver Hits Tree; Charged with DWI

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — Mr. Raoul Selikson, 58,  was driving a 1999 Green Toyota Camry, traveling North on Baldwin Road in the right turn lane.

He had a green signal and continued North through the intersection of Baldwin Road and Vail Road and failed to make a right turn, traveling through the intersection and striking the curb in front of 540 Vail Road. The vehicle continued over curb leaving the roadway into a landscaped area of property at 540 Vail Road, crashing over a small shrub, and striking a tree where it came to uncontrolled rest.

Mr. Selikson stated he was distracted looking at his radio changing the channel and did not realize he was traveling off the road till he struck the tree. Two witnesses observed the vehicle traveling north on Baldwin Road enter the intersection at a green light and drive through the intersection, failing to turn right, run off the roadway onto the property of 540 Vail Road and crash into a tree.

Both witnesses stated the driver appeared disoriented when they first approached.

Parsippany Patrolman Arthur Ohlsenn determined the crash was caused by Selikson not paying attention, distracted driving, and use of Controlled Dangerous Substance.

The vehicle was towed from the scene by C & L Towing.

He was issued a summons for 39:4-50 and 39:4-50(G)(1).

New Jersey Statue defines 39:4-50: Driving while intoxicated. (a) Except as provided in subsection (g) of this section, a person who operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug, or operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more by weight of alcohol in the defendant’s blood or permits another person who is under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug to operate a motor vehicle owned by him or in his custody or control or permits another to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more by weight of alcohol in the defendant’s blood.

39:4-50(G)(1) Driving with intoxicated on any school property used for school purposes which is owned by or leased to any elementary or secondary school or school board, or within 1,000 feet of such school property;

A court date to appear in Parsippany Municipal Court was set.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Diversity in Parsippany Makes us a Better Community

By
Letters to the Editor
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This picture of Lake Parsippany was the feature photo used in "Discover Greater Parsippany" published by the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce

This article was submitted by resident Gordon Meth.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills is situated in one of the most enviable counties in the Country – Morris County. Morris County has the 8th highest median household income of the 3,144 counties and equivalents in the United States.

Violent crime in Morris County is in the bottom 15th percentile of the Country, and is among the lowest in the New York City Metropolitan Area. In terms of educational attainment, approximately 51% of the County population aged 25 or older has a bachelor’s degree or higher, and this is the 40th highest for a county in the United States.

Sixteen (16) of the top 100 New Jersey public high schools according to Niche.com are located in Morris County (Parsippany High School is ranked 61 in the state and ninth in Morris County.  Parsippany Hills High School is ranked 69 in the state and tenth in Morris County.  Both schools are in the top 5% of public high schools nationwide). Median home value for Morris County is the second highest in New Jersey, and 36th in the Country. In exchange for this, Morris County has the eighth highest median property taxes in the Country.

With a population of nearly 54,000 people, Parsippany-Troy Hills is the largest municipality in Morris County by a factor of nearly two. Parsippany-Troy Hills contains nearly 11% of Morris County’s population. Money Magazine ranks Parsippany-Troy Hills the fifth best small city in the United States to live in (although given the criteria of having a population of 50,000-300,000, Parsippany-Troy Hills is the only Morris County municipality given consideration, and is one of only 35 New Jersey municipalities that are given consideration). In terms of educational attainment, approximately 53% of Parsippany-Troy Hills population aged 25 or older has a bachelor’s degree or higher, with 22% having graduate or professional degrees.  This is slightly higher than the overall for Morris County.  Median family income is nearly $90,000 per year, which is less than the $100,000 per year median family income for Morris County.

Parsippany-Troy Hills has only six elected officials (an elected mayor and five council persons), whereas every other Morris County municipality has 5-12 elected officials.  In total, there are 259 municipal elected officials in Morris County.  Parsippany-Troy Hills has the lowest number of elected officials per capita by a factor of 2-39.  Two-thirds of Morris County municipalities have elected mayors, and Parsippany-Troy Hills has the only full time mayor.  Six Morris County municipalities have ward systems.  The opposite extreme of Parsippany-Troy Hills is Rockaway Township, which has and elected mayor, an 11 member council, a ward system, and a population slightly less than 25,000.

A total of nearly 19,000 Parsippany-Troy Hills residents, or 35%, are foreign born (including myself, as I was born in Canada).  Nearly 11,000 of these residents are naturalized citizens, and over 10,500 of these residents can vote.   This ratio of foreign-born population is approximately the same as New York City.  In Morris County, only Dover has a higher proportion of foreign-born population, with nearly 50% being foreign-born.  Parsippany-Troy Hills has approximately 20% of Morris County’s foreign-born population.  Parsippany-Troy Hills has the 19th highest number of foreign born persons by municipality in New Jersey.    One of the key factors of the high ranking of our high schools is an A- rating for diversity.  The ethnic makeup of Parsippany-Troy Hills foreign born population is 45% Asian Indian, 17% white alone, non-Hispanic, 13% Chinese, 11% Hispanic or Latino, 5% other Asian, and 10% other or multi-race.  A total of 62% of the foreign-born population 25 and over in Parsippany-Troy Hills have bachelor degrees or higher, versus 46% for natural born residents of Parsippany-Troy Hills 25 and over.  Nearly half of these foreign born persons have graduate or professional degrees, versus only about a third of the natural born residents.  The foreign-born population has median earnings approximately $6,000 more per year than natural born residents.  The unemployment rate of foreign-born population in Parsippany-Troy Hills is 3.7%, versus 5.0% for natural born residents.  Consequently, foreign-born residents of Parsippany-Troy Hills raise our overall development as a community.

 

 

 

 

Jersey Mike’s Subs Raises Over $263,000 For Make-A-Wish®

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Make-A-Wish New Jersey President and CEO Tom Weatherall, Franchise Owner Chris Rigassio, and Jersey Mike's Subs CMO Rich Hope

PARSIPPANY — Make-A-Wish® New Jersey and 52 Jersey Mike’s Subs locations in North and Central New Jersey joined forces this March during the 7th Annual “Month of Giving”. The month-long campaign raised an astounding $263,749 for Make-A-Wish New Jersey, whose mission is to grant the wishes of local children diagnosed with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Jersey Mike’s has a location at 317 Smith Road.

Make-A-Wish New Jersey Staff Visits Jersey Mikes Locations During Month of Giving Campaign

Additional funds were raised for other Make-A-Wish chapters at 95 Jersey Mike’s locations around the country, resulting in a $434,610 contribution to Make-A-Wish nationwide. Overall, Jersey Mike’s raised over $5.5 million during the month for nearly 150 charities from coast-to-coast.

“I would like to thank our extraordinary customers, franchise owners, team members and charity partners who helped us raise the most ever during Jersey Mike’s 7th Annual Month of Giving in March,” said Peter Cancro, Jersey Mike’s Founder and CEO. “Our mission statement has always been focused on making a difference in people’s lives.”

Make-A-Wish New Jersey kicked off the “Month of Giving” on March 1st by lighting up its magical and whimsical wish-granting facility, the Samuel & Josephine Plumeri Wishing Place, home of Make-A-Wish New Jersey, in red and blue – Jersey Mike’s official colors. Jersey Mike’s Subs customers were encouraged to make a donation at their local restaurants throughout the month, culminating with a special event on March 29 – Jersey Mike’s “Day of Giving” – when 52 local Jersey Mike’s restaurants donated 100 percent of the day’s sales to Make-A-Wish New Jersey.

“Now in our fourth decade in New Jersey, we have long known that a wish experience is nothing short of life-changing for a child with a life-threatening medical condition,” commented Tom Weatherall, President & Chief Executive Officer of Make-A-Wish New Jersey.  “We pick up where science and medicine leave off, and can be just as important as their treatment protocols.  We’ve witnessed  – thousands upon thousands of times – the hope, strength and joy a wish gives a child, and the difference it can make in their lives and their family’s lives. The entire team at Jersey Mike’s Subs, and their loyal patrons, have shown us that they, too, believe in the power of a wish, and we are deeply humbled by the success of the 2017 “Month – and Day of – Giving. On behalf of our team, but mostly the children we serve all across New Jersey, thank you Jersey Mike’s Subs!”

Make-A-Wish New Jersey has granted over 9,000 wishes in its 34-year-history – 483 last year alone. With a goal of granting well over 500 wishes this year, the generous support of corporations like Jersey Mike’s is critical to the organization’s continued success. Through their $263,000 donation, approximately 25 more New Jersey children with life-threatening medical conditions will experience a wish-come-true in the coming months.

On May 11, Make-A-Wish New Jersey will host a “Day of Gratitude” at the Samuel & Josephine Plumeri Wishing Place, inviting Jersey Mike’s leadership and local wish kids alike, to celebrate the success of the “Month of Giving” and to honor and thank Jersey Mike’s for their support.

For more information about Make-A-Wish New Jersey, click here.

 

Kaitlyn Partington Inducted into Phi Alpha Epsilon

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Kaitlyn Partington

PARSIPPANY — Kaitlyn Partington of Mount Tabor, was inducted into Phi Alpha Epsilon, the College’s honor society celebrating academic achievement and volunteer service. Partington, a 2013 graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, is pursuing a bachelor of science in business administration and digital communications.

Phi Alpha Epsilon, the College’s honor society that recognizes academic achievement and service to others, inducts its new members each spring.

To be eligible for this award, students must achieve a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.6, complete at least 24 credits of Constellation LVC coursework, and achieve the “bronze” level of service hours (as determined by the Office of Spiritual Life) at the conclusion of the fall semester prior to graduation.

To learn more about the society, click here.

Lebanon Valley College is a private, coeducational college founded in 1866 and dedicated to the liberal arts. The College offers 40 undergraduate majors plus self-designed majors and a range of minors, concentrations, and pre-professional options, as well as graduate degree programs in athletic training, business administration, music education, physical therapy, science in STEM education, and speech-language pathology.

The College has 1,608 full-time undergraduate students and 108 full-time faculty. Students can choose from more than 90 clubs and organizations, and 12 study abroad programs. LVC awards generous academic scholarships to those whose high school records demonstrate a commitment to challenge and achievement. Learn more by clicking here.

Annville is 15 minutes east of Hershey and 35 minutes east of Harrisburg; Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Baltimore are within two hours.

Employment Horizons’ “Taste of Spring” Raises Funds for Culinary Program

By
Frank L. Cahill
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A group photo of most of the participating chefs from the evening

CEDAR KNOLLS — Libations Sponsor Solix, Inc. and Culinary Sponsors Birds Eye, Crystal Plaza, FirstEnergy Foundation, and Mandelbaum Salsburg, P.C. partnered with chefs from  area restaurants and businesses for a “Taste of Spring” to raise money for Employment Horizons’ Culinary Arts Training Program on April 5.

The event was again held at the Smoke Rise Village Inn, Kinnelon, and featured small plates from restaurants including Morris Tap & Grill, Ava’s Cupcakes, Birds Eye, Dolce Basking Ridge, Ninety Acres, Piattino, Pig & Prince, Smoke Rise Village Inn, and south+pine.  My Limo of East Hanover served as the Transportation Sponsor for the evening, providing a bus to and from the event. In addition to delicious food, the evening included a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, giveaways, and music provided by Entertainment Sponsor WMTR Radio.

A sheet cake provided by Palermo’s Bakery recognized Employment Horizons’ Diamond Jubilee and 60 years of service.

Employment Horizons is the premier not-for-profit agency providing comprehensive employment, training, and job placement services to persons with disabilities and other disadvantages in the greater Morris County, NJ area.

To obtain more information about Employment Horizons and the Culinary Arts Training Program, click here or contact Maria Verducci-Florio at (973) 538-8822 ext. 240 or mariaflorio@ehorizons.org. Photos by courtesy of Good Night Productions.

 

Jersey Battered Women’s Service Host Coffee House and Tricky Tray

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Coffee House event committee members (l-r) Diane Gangemi of Randolph, Mary Gangemi of Randolph, Dawn Gabriel of Morris Plains, and Mindy Turner of Randolph, review the terrific inventory of donated auction items, including a 32” Vizio television

MORRIS COUNTY — The Friends of JBWS Fundraising Committee is gearing up to host its 9th annual Coffee House and tricky tray to benefit Jersey Battered Women’s Service (JBWS) in Morris County. The fun-filled event takes place Saturday, April 22, 6:30 p.m., at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center in Whippany. Tickets can be purchased for $35.00 in advance by clicking here or $40.00 at the door.

Guests will enjoy the wonderful acoustic music of Cast of Strangers, while bidding on tricky tray baskets valued at more than $3,000.  A bonus this year is a chance to win the Disney Raffle Grand Prize of two nights at any Wyndham Rewards Properties, four Disney one-day hopper passes, luggage and designer Sunglasses. Additional raffles and a 50/50 drawing will add to the excitement.

A buffet, desserts, tea and coffee are included in the ticket price; Beer and wine are available for purchase. Guests must be 21 or over to attend.

 All proceeds from the event benefit JBWS, a nonprofit domestic violence prevention agency serving more than 27,000 people last year through its’ 24-hour helpline (973-267-4763), counseling, safe house, transitional living, children’s services, life skills education, vocational counseling, batterer’s intervention, legal assistance, teen dating violence services, professional training, and education programs for youth and adults. Our dedicated volunteers provided 10,000 hours of service.

For more information about JBWS and this and all of our events, call (973) 267-7520 or click here.

Morris Park Commission to Host Annual All-County Garage Sale

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Find treasures, great bargains, unique antiques, sought-after collectibles, and gifts to share. Don’t miss your opportunity to uncover something exceptional and wonderful. It is a one-day shopper’s paradise.

The All-County Garage Sale returns by popular demand to Mennen Sports Arena on Saturday, April 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., 161 Hanover Avenue, Morris Township.

“Last year, thousands traveled from near and far to hunt personal treasures,” said Mark Sutherland, Manager of Historic Sites for the Morris County Park Commission.

“Customers purchased mint-condition baseball cards, a wide variety of musical records, classic jewelry, kitchen appliances, vintage postcards and artwork, novelties, and so much more. You never know what you’re going to find.”

All proceeds from the All-County Garage Sale benefit the educational programming and historic preservation projects of Morristown’s Historic Speedwell.

Known as the ‘Birthplace of the Telegraph,’ Historic Speedwell’s Factory Building, is a National Historic Landmark that features a brand new, hands-on, interactive exhibit on the telegraph and the development of modern communications.

Admission to the All County Garage Sale is $3.00 per adult, $2.00 per senior and student. Children 12 and under are admitted FREE. For more information, call (973) 285-6550 or click here for more information.

A Clear Success: Cornerstone Family Programs’ Gala Raises Almost $300,000

By
Frank L. Cahill
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FLORHAM PARK — Cornerstone Family Programs’ gathers over 300 of our community’s most philanthropic individuals to raise funds at its annual spring gala.

This year’s event, themed Smoke & Mirrors, was held on Saturday, April 1, at Park Avenue Club. Community members arrived in style, dressed in black and white, to celebrate the continued success of the non-profit organization.

The Gala, which is Cornerstone Family Programs’ largest fundraising event of the year, honored former Mayor of Harding Township, Nic Platt, MACRO Consulting Group of Parsippany, and Marjorie and Ivory Herbert as Cornerstone of the Community Honorees.

Marjorie Herbert, a thirty-year employee of Morristown Neighborhood House, Cornerstone Family Programs’ subsidiary, expressed her gratitude for the organization’s strong support at the event in a heartfelt speech.

“I invite you to come to the Neighborhood House and see what our kids do every day, and would be more than happy to show you around,” Herbert stated as she described the growth of the organization over the past three decades of working there, emphasizing that the children of the Neighborhood House thrive as competitive students thanks to the funds that help its programming.

Patrice Picard, CEO of Cornerstone Family Programs, emphasized the importance of programs at Morristown Neighborhood House. “It’s through our programs and dedication to our children that they grow into our community’s leaders, and it all begins with giving them a chance.”

Encouraging active philanthropy and service, Cornerstone Family Programs’ President of the Board, Hector Mislavsky, noted that 100 percent of Cornerstone’s Board of Directors was in attendance Saturday night. Full board participation contributed greatly to the event’s success, which garnered a nearly $300,000 profit, which will help fund Morristown Neighborhood House’s summer camp and STEM Lab Center programs.

Morristown Neighborhood House’s summer camp provides subsidized care costs for families, and a safe haven for children in the community during the summer months. The program provides activities, healthy meals, and opportunities for trips that ensure positive educational, character, and social development over the summer. A camp for children of all ages, Morristown Neighborhood House encourages active adolescent participation, as its Teen Tutors and Mentors serve as paid camp counselors during the summer, introducing a workforce preparedness aspect to the program.

Each of Morristown Neighborhood House’s classrooms features a STEM Lab Center, encouraging exploration and education in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. Accompanied with new curriculum for teachers at Morristown Neighborhood House, the STEM Lab Centers were designed with a goal to increase interest and improve performance in these areas of education.

Cornerstone Family Programs and Morristown Neighborhood House joined forces in 2013 to strengthen communities by helping people build better lives. Cornerstone Family Programs helps nearly 10,000 including children, adults, families, seniors and veterans. Cornerstone Family Programs is a private, non-profit organization. For more information about Cornerstone Family Programs, call (973) 538-5260 or click here.

Karen DeChristopher Named Outstanding Citizen by the YMCA

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Karen DeChristopher
Karen DeChristopher

PARSIPPANY — The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is pleased to announce the 2017 winners of the annual YMCA Citizen of the Year Awards from their ten service area towns: Karen DeChristopher, Parsippany; Carolyn Micheletti Dobies, Boonton; Ron Quade, Boonton Township; Thomas Dean, Denville; Scott Akin, Kinnelon-Butler; Lauren Curiotto, Lincoln Park; Mark and Anna Landgrebe, Montville; Thomas “Mac” McElduff, Mountain Lakes; Russ Hall, Pequannock and Sgt. Greg Bogert, Riverdale.

Karen DeChristopher is the Division Marketing and Customer Relations Administrator for Western Pest Services.

Diane Rudolph and Karen DeChristopher. Karen is also Vice President of Family Promise

Among many other volunteer organizations, Karen DeChristopher is Vice President of Family Promise, is Vice President of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and Co-Director and Committee Chair of Kiwanis Club’s Young Children Priority One (YCPO) service projects. In January, Karen was given one of the highest honors in the Kiwanis Club,  the George F. Hixon Fellowship Award. George F. Hixon Fellowship Awards are given to Kiwanians who have contributed to the betterment of the club. The club is eligible to award a Hixon for each donation of $1,000 to the Kiwanis International Foundation. The Hixon award is named in honor of the first Kiwanis International president.

Frank Cahill presenting Karen DeChristopher with the Hixon award

These individuals have demonstrated outstanding community service and volunteerism. “The selflessness exhibited by these volunteers is consistent with social responsibility, which is one of the key underpinnings of our YMCA mission and we are looking forward to honoring them,”says Lakeland Hills YMCA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Viktor Joganow.

The winners will be recognized at the Y’s Annual Dinner that will take place on Wednesday, May 17 at the Knoll Country Club West. Tickets for the dinner (at $50.00 each) are available through May 10 and everyone is welcome to attend, so come out and meet the people who have made a difference in your community!  For tickets, call Nancy Dunham at the Y, (973) 334-2820, or email: nancyd@lhymca.com

Council Vice President Peluso captures runaway dog

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — On Monday, April 10, Council Vice President was on his way to IHOP, 792 Route 46, Arlington Shopping Plaza to a Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce meeting.

Upon entering the parking lot he seen a distressed dog running around aimlessly heading towards Route 46.

He immediately got out of his vehicle and approached the dog.  The dog continued his path towards Route 46. This was about 6:00 p.m. and the traffic on Route 46 was heavy at the time. He was able to call the dog and the dog actually listened and came back to Mr. Peluso. Mr. Peluso was able to catch the dog and hold and pet the dog and make him feel comfortable. The dog was scared and lost at the same time.

He then approached someone in the parking lot, who obtained water for the dog, which was thirsty from running and trying to find his way home.  He then read the name on the dog tag, and “Jake” had a telephone number which he called and the call went to voice mail. He then texted the individual letting them know he had the dog.  A few minutes later someone called back and he explained where the dog was.  The family was excited and said they were out searching for the dog for some time now, and would meet Mr. Peluso in the parking lot.

The family arrived, mom and three youngsters who was happy to be reunited with their dog and took the dog home.

The family resides in Huntington Ridge Condo off of Route 46 and North Beverwyck Road.

The family was grateful and thanked Mr. Peluso for saving the dog.

Frelinghuysen to speak at Morris County Chamber meeting

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen

FLORHAM PARK — Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen, R-11, will speak at the Morris County Chamber of Commerce’s Washington Update Breakfast on Friday, May 12.

The event will be held at the Wyndham Hamilton Park hotel, 175 Park Avenue, Florham Park, costs $55.00 for members and $75.00 for nonmembers.

The congressman has been criticized for not holding a town-hall meeting to talk with constituents face to face since 2013. He does attend community events in the district, and he holds telephone town-hall meetings, for which residents can sign up.

At the chamber meeting, Frelinghuysen is expected to “discuss his work in Congress, including efforts regarding health care, tax policy, security and defense, the federal budget and other critical issues,” according to a chamber announcement.

Frelinghuysen became chairman of the House Appropriations Committee in January.

The breakfast and program will be from 8:00 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. with networking and registration beginning at 7:30 a.m.

To register online, go to events.morrischamber.org.

PACC sponsors another successful Breakfast Networking Event

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Business people joining Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce during a breakfast meeting at IHOP

PARSIPPANY — Recently, the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a morning networking event titled “Email Marketing – The Good, The Bad & The Ugly.”

Ilene Greene and Ted Polmar, Principals of MarketShare Communications and BizCircles Entrepreneurs Business Network, presented this PACC Breakfast Program. Their firm specializes in marketing strategy, website development, and branding for small and middle market companies.

Everyone uses email these days – but the question is, does it really work? We are all inundated with tens or hundreds of emails every day and every week. Which ones get opened and why?

The attendees received first hand knowledge of the 10 Facts You Need to Know About Email Marketing. Some of the topics included:

  • Best subject lines to get opened
  • How good is your list
  • How you can use email to grow your social media following
  • Best times to send emails – it’s changing all the time
  • Is your email template responsive and why it must be
  • Best and most cost-effective way to reach your target audience

Ilene Greene and Ted Polmar, Principals of MarketShare Communications and BizCircles Entrepreneurs Business Network, will present this PACC Breakfast Program. Their firm specializes in marketing strategy, website development, and branding for small and middle market companies.

You can join Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, May 9 when Ilene Greene and Ted Polmar presents “Social Media & Why We All Need to Engage.”

There was a time when social media was considered by some as a passing fad. Something that “the kids” were using, that businesses could never really benefit from. Today roughly eight-in-ten online Americans (79%) now use Facebook, a 7-percentage-point increase from a survey conducted about one year ago.

Popular social platforms have become marketing giants, offering businesses valuable data about their customers and a (mostly) free way to reach them. Social media for business is no longer optional.

Come to our next breakfast on Tuesday, May 9, and learn the 10 Benefits of Social Media and why you MUST be engaged – from Main Street to the Board Room. Find out who is using social media, how often they engage and which ones. Social Media helps you get:  Exposure • Brand Awareness • Customer Loyalty and more!

This event is held at IHOP, 792 Route 46. $10.00 for members, and $15.00 for non-member and includes breakfast. Click here to register.

 

Easter Bunny hops into IHOP and distributes candy

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Children Reed Patel, 3, and Libby Patel, 1, with their parents visiting the Easter Bunny at IHOP

PARSIPPANY — On Saturday, April 15, the Easter Bunny, hopped into IHOP, to visit the children having breakfast. Children had the opportunity to take pictures with the Easter Bunny and the Easter Bunny gave out candy to everyone.

IHOP waiter Daniel Arguelles with the Easter Bunny
Committee Chair of YCPO of Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Karen DeChristopher visits with the Easter Bunny
11 month old Lucas Amaral meeting the Easter Bunny for the first time at IHOP on Saturday
IHOP employees Cara David and Kathy Jovel and Kiwanis member Karen DeChristopher visits with the Easter Bunny

Easter Bunny visits Sedgefield; Children found eggs during Easter Egg Hunt

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Winners. A gold egg was placed in each age group area and these three children were the winners. Lana Goldberg, 6, Joseph Gencarelli, 1, and William Irwin, 12, took home the grand prize

PARSIPPANY — Sedgefield Civic Association held their annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 15. The children, in age groups went into Grafton Park to collect Easter eggs.

The children at the starting line waiting for hunt for the eggs in Grafton Park

Each age group had an opportunity to find a golden egg with a silver dollar, to win a grand prize. There were over 1,200 eggs hidden in the park.

Mayor James Barberio attended and gave each child an Easter bunny and some candy. The Easter Bunny hung out for pictures with the children, then took off to IHOP, 792 Route 46 to enjoy Breakfast with the children. (Click here to read related story)

For more information on Sedgefield Civic Association, click here.

Council Vice President Robert Peluso with his son who was ready to find the Easter Eggs

Woman’s Club Celebrate National Library Workers’ Day

By
Frank L. Cahill
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David Church, Librarian, Korin Rosenkrans, Branch Manager, Netta Aragona, Head of Children’s Services Jean Detlefsen, Library Assistant and Barbara Brinkman, Library Assistant all enjoyed the treats the WCPTH club members brought to the Lake Hiawatha Library Branch to celebrate National Library Workers’ Day. Photo by Stephanie LiCausi

PARSIPPANY — Librarians and Staff Members at Parsippany’s three libraries;  Main Library, Mount Tabor Branch and Lake Hiawatha Branch were treated to refreshments on Tuesday, April 11 by members of the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) to celebrate National Library Workers’ Day.  Club members treated the staff at all three branches to desserts, chips, candy and drinks to thank them for their dedication to the Parsippany library system.  Club Members were on hand to chat with the staff and thank them in-person.

National Library Workers’ Day was established in 2003 to ‘recognize the hard work, dedication, and expertise of library support staff and librarians.’

This is the third year WCPTH has supported National Library Workers’ Day.  The club has a special relationship with the library, being one of its first donors in the 1960’s when the township library was established.  Nationally, Women’s Clubs are credited with establishing three quarters of the nation’s libraries.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC, which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.   The next General Meeting is Monday, April 24 at 7:00 p.m. at the Lake Parsippany Rescue & Recovery Building, 100 Centerton Drive. For more information call Cathy at (973) 984-0758, e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, visit their website by click here.

Meeting schedule is subject to change.  Please contact Cathy, Membership Chairman, if interested in attending a meeting or to confirm date and time.

Survey: Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook in dead heat for student use

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook are in a statistical deadhead when it comes to college and high school students and the social media networks they use, but Snapchat and Instagram jump to a solid lead when it comes to how often they use them.

According to an online survey of 333 college and high school students conducted by SCG, a Parsippany based advertising and public relations agency, about 95 percent of students say they use the three major social media platforms, but 88 percent say they use Instagram and Snapchat often, versus  81 percent for Facebook.  Twitter trails on all fronts with only 66.6 percent reporting use and fewer than 50 percent using it often. Students report lower usage of Tumblr, YouTube, and Pinterest.

Snapchat wins the battle for daily use, with 78 percent saying they use the service daily, as compared to 76 percent for Instagram, and 66 percent for Facebook. Seventy-one percent say they use Snapchat more than six times per day, and 51 percent says they are on Snapchat more than 11 times per day.

To access the full white paper on the results, click here.

“Students – mostly GenZ – are spending about 11 hours per day in front of up to five different screens. So it should be of no surprise that they are not married to just one platform,” said Michael Cherenson, SCG’s executive vice president for public relations. “Marketers and brands must be agnostic when it comes to platform. This means being open to use of several social media networks, often in unique ways.”

When it comes to Snapchat, respondents say they are most interested in keeping in touch with friends (89.5 percent) and sharing and creating videos, images and stories (56.8 percent). A whopping 49.2 percent say they return to Snapchat daily simply to maintain a Snapchat streak.

“More than half of Snapchat users say they would feel disconnected from friends if not for Snapchat, which speaks volumes about the relationship students have with the platform and their peer networks,” Cherenson said.  “Almost 25 percent indicated Snapchat is essential to their relationships.”

Almost 90 percent of Snapchat users say they enjoy the GeoFilters, while 85 percent say they like the Snapchat Lenses.  Students report little to no interest in ads that appear in stories.

There also is a high degree of interest in content, including “Real Stories or day-in-the-life,” “Behind-scenes videos,” and How-To videos.  When asked about what brands or companies use Snapchat well, Cosmo, Buzzfeed and the Kardashians were cited most frequently.

“Brands would be wise to use the platform for storytelling, providing new and interesting perspectives, and for engaging in a thoughtful, interesting and meaningful way with students,” said Cherenson. “Cookie cutter content will be pushed aside quickly.”

About SCG
Founded more than half a century ago, SCG (Success Communications Group) provides 21st century communication services highlighted by creativity, passion, and innovation. With specific expertise in public relations, advertising, marketing, social media, digital marketing, and recruitment, SCG is headquartered at26 Eastmans Road, Parsippany with regional offices in the metro areas of Philadelphia, Atlanta, San Diego, and Tampa.

Letter to the editor: Trump Administration’s new federal budget

By
Frank L. Cahill
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To the Editor,

As the Trump Administration’s new federal budget moves forward, I have been heartened to hear Representative Frelinghuysen’s positive statements on the importance of foreign assistance programming and these programs’ demonstrated value in improving American security and prosperity. Using only less than one percent of the federal budget, these programs comprise a critical piece of our country’s foreign policy.

We know all too well that violent extremists do not only wage their campaigns in their hometowns, their movements and attacks are global and present a clear threat to the security of Americans. While there is still much work to be done in defeating these groups, American foreign assistance investments in education and licit livelihoods have played a major role in reducing local support in other countries for extremism. Reducing this programming at this point would certainly move this effort backwards.

Foreign assistance also opens foreign markets for American business and export, both by building foreign markets for American goods and services as well as serving as a key negotiation point in discussions around taxation and regulation. In a world with increasing global competition, American businesses cannot afford to lose the benefits provided by foreign assistance programming. This is especially true as American competitors, particularly Chinese businesses, are realizing the returns from their own governments’ investments in foreign assistance.

Finally, American foreign assistance fights the spread of diseases that, through international flights and shipping connections, could easily reach the United States within days and do immeasurable damage to American lives and livelihoods. All totaled, foreign assistance is an investment that is extremely important to the security and prosperity of Americans, as well as those abroad that we reach with programming. Representative Frelinghuysen is right to question the Trump Administration’s proposed cuts to USAID and the State Department’s foreign assistance budgets.

Maria G. D’Andrea
Morristown

Local Beat: Three CRDA board members take thousands in back pay, stipends

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0

Local Beat is the NJ News Commons’ weekly roundup of the best reporting by community news sources. THREE CRDA BOARD MEMBERS TAKE THOUSANDS IN BACK PAY, STIPENDS As many in Atlantic City are facing pay cuts and layoffs under the state’s takeover, one state authority has paid its own board members thousands of dollars in back…

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Cover Up Of A Crime? Salary Ordinance Revised; 3-2 Vote on First Reading

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Former Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Dr. Louis Valori and Former Mayor James Barberio (File photo)

PARSIPPANY — Four days after Democratic activist and candidate for governor Bill Brennan filed a citizen’s complaint against Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Business Administrator Ellen Sandman in Parsippany Municipal Court, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council President Louis Valori called a special meeting to introduce an ordinance establishing White Collar Salary Ranges.

Both defendants must appear in Morris County Superior Court on Wednesday, April 19 at 11:30 a.m.

This is clearly a salary ordinance, and not a payment ordinance.

The Ordinance, #2017:05, shall be retroactive to January 1, 2017 for all employees active on the date of introduction of this ordinance. The salary in this ordinance for Keyboarding Clerk 1 will have a minimum starting salary of $17,000 annually to $55,000 annually. (Note: A copy of the Ordinance was not available to the public during the special meeting, Parsippany Focus obtained a copy through Open Public Records Act (OPRA). Click here to see the complete White Collar Salary ranges.

Retired Police Sergeant Eugene Natoli

According to New Jersey Civil Service Commission, the definition of a Keyboarding Clerk I is “Under close supervision, performs routine, repetitive clerical work involving the processing of documents in a variety of functions; formats and key enters/types correspondence, documents, reports, charts and other materials on a computer console, typewriter, or other key entry device used by the agency; does other related duties as required. Keyboarding clerks typically spend a majority of their work time (more than 50%) typing or operating keyboard equipment. Speed and accuracy are essential for all keyboarding positions.

The complaints stem from a series of articles published in Parsippany Focus earlier this year. Barberio authorized the hiring of Retired Police Sergeant Eugene Natoli on December 19, 2016 at an annual salary of $50,000. The “Request for Personnel Action” report indicates he works in the “Administration Department” as a “Keyboarding Clerk 1.”  The position is a full time, permanent position. It is evident that Mayor Barberio hired Mr. Natoli in clear violation of the law.(click here to read article).

The Personnel Action form was signed by Business Administrator Ellen Sandman.

Natoli’s Request for Personnel Action form obtained through an OPRA request
Ramona (Jackie) Ortiz

Then in an article published in Parsippany Focus on March 7, “Barberio Breaks Township Ordinances Elected to Enforce, Again,” a source inside Town Hall told Parsippany Focus that Barberio hired Ramona (Jackie) Ortiz effective December 5, 2016 as a Keyboarding Clerk I, at an annual salary of $54,000.

The salary ordinance for white-collar workers, specifically Keyboarding Clerk 1, Ordinance 2016:22 states the salary is a minimum of $17,000 with a maximum of $48,000. She was hired at $6,000 more than the maximum amount allowed by Township Ordinance. It is evident that Mayor Barberio hired Ms. Ortiz in clear violation of the law. (click here to read complete Personnel Action form)

The Personnel Action form was signed by Business Administrator Ellen Sandman.

Ortiz’s Request for Personnel Action form obtained through an OPRA request

Both individuals were hired as a “Keyboarding Clerk I.” At the time they were hired the salary ordinance for white-collar workers, specifically Keyboarding Clerk 1, Ordinance 2016:22 states the salary is a minimum of $17,000 with a maximum of $48,000. Natoli was paid $2,000 over the ordinance while Ortiz was paid $6,000 over the ordinance.

Ordinance 2017:05, read on first reading on Tuesday, April 12 was voted 3-2. Council President Louis Valori and Michael dePierro voted in favor of the ordinance. In addition, Concilwoman Loretta Gragnani voted in favor of the Ordinance by telephone since she was not present at the meeting.   The first reading passed 3 – 2.

Council Vice President Robert Peluso and Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr. voted against the passage of this Ordinance.

“I find it kind-of comical that we had to have this special meeting, at the last second, right after this gentlemen who you claim files this bogus claim,” Councilman Paul Carifi told Parsippany Focus. “Again, the mayor hired these people at a higher rate than what the salary ordinance allows. That is a fact. This is a knee-jerk reaction, as usual, by the mayor.”

“I’m voting with my conscience, no,” Council Vice President Robert Peluso said.

It was reported that Brennan and Barberio did not attend the special 5:00 p.m. meeting, during which Township Attorney John Inglesino read a statement accusing Brennan of politicizing township business and criticizing Parsippany Focus Publisher Frank Cahill.

“Mr. Inglesino appears to be speaking out of both sides of his mouth. On one hand he claims there is no salary cap violation but on the other, he’s recommending that the ordinance be changed now with an unscheduled, last minute special meeting. If Mr. Brennan’s complaint is bogus, why is Mr. Inglesino in such a hurry?” stated Democratic Mayoral Candidate Michael Soriano.

Bill Brennan told the Daily Record, “I am beginning a legal campaign against these lawless abusers. Inglesino is my ultimate target. I investigated the perpetrators and started with Inglesino’s cronies, and am working my way up.”

The meeting drew a small public audience including Michael Soriano, who is running for mayor in the June Democratic primary. Barberio is running for re-election in the June GOP primary against Peluso. The audience also included former Councilman Jonathan Nelson, Former Mayor Mimi Letts and Current Council Candidate Janice McCarthy.

“These salary ordinances should be reviewed in October or November of the previous year, and adjusted at that time, not after the mayor goes and hires people above the salary ordinance,” Paul Carifi said. “He continues to do this. But in the past, for certain people that he’s hired for certain positions, we’ve been told that the promises and/or the negotiations the mayor has engaged in, that if we did not give them those salaries, we could be sued. And at that point, we had no choice. That’s why we did it in the past.”

The ordinance will be further considered for second reading and final passage on Tuesday, April 25.

CCM to Hold Spring Open House on April 22

By
Frank L. Cahill
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0

RANDOLPH — County College of Morris (CCM) will be holding its Spring Open House on Saturday, April 22, for high school students and their parents, students attending other colleges who are looking to transfer, and adults interested in returning to school.

The Open House takes place in the Student Community Center on CCM’s Randolph campus, 214 Center Grove Road. Two sessions will be offered at 10 and 11:30 a.m. Those who attend and apply for admission will have the $30 application fee waived.

The Open House features academic breakout sessions so students can explore the areas of study they are most interested in pursuing.

Faculty and representatives from admissions, financial aid, career services and student life will be on hand to answer questions. Participants also can take a self-guided tour of the campus.

The Open House offers the opportunity to learn about CCM’s more than 50 associate degree programs, athletics and student organizations. 

Registration is requested and can be easily completed online by clicking here. Remember to select the session you want to attend.

Open House visitors can park in Lots 6 or 7 (a campus map can be found by clicking here). For more information click here.

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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.

Contact us: news@parsippanyfocus.com

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