PARSIPPANY — Cubs Scouts from Pack 215 in Parsippany held their Annual Winter Indoor camping trip at America’s oldest zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo.
The overnight program hosted about 100 scouters and their families at the “Treehouse”, the Philadelphia Zoo’s magical, historical indoor playground which formerly housed the zoo’s giraffes. Pack 215 was by far the largest group with 30 attendees. The Scouts had an opportunity to interact with zoo keepers and staff, do a late-night hike, enjoy crafts and games, see a live animal show, and a guided tour the next day. They learned about the individual animals that call the zoo their home including some endangered species, as well as environmental and ecological topics. It all translated into a lot of fun and excitement!
Pack 215 of Parsippany serves boys from first through fifth grades, and delivers a provides a quality scouting program that is designed to provide your son and family with exciting experiences and memories that last a lifetime! Previous winter trips included camping at the Franklin Institute as well as the Battleship NJ. To learn more about Scouting and Pack 215, click here to visit their website or email: cubmaster@pack215.com
PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio in a March 19, 2017 statement on his personal blog* “CAHILL/FOCUS WRONG AGAIN! MAYOR BARBERIO DID NOT VIOLATE SALARY ORDINANCE!” His answer on the blog is clearly a “Smoke Screen.”
He claims the use of misinformation doesn’t suddenly make it true either. The facts are in black-and-white. The facts are the facts. You decide.
An ordinance is a law or regulation made by a city or town government.
During numerous Open Public Records Act (OPRA) requests, Parsippany Focus requested the following documents:
Eugene Natoli Request for Personnel Action (click here for complete document)
Ramona (Jackie) Ortiz Request for Personnel Action (click here for complete document)
White Collar Salary Ordinance (click here for complete document)
Eugene Natoli
As reported in Parsippany Focus, on January 9, 2017, Retired Police Sergeant Eugene Natoli was hired by Parsippany-Troy Hills Township 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.
The salary ordinance for white-collar workers, specifically Keyboarding Clerk 1, Ordinance 2016:22, passed on second reading on August 16, 2016 states the salary is a minimum of $17,000 with a maximum of $48,000. He was hired at $2,000 more than the maximum amount allowed by Township Ordinance. It is evident that Mayor Barberio hired Mr. Natoli in clear violation of the law. (For complete story, click here)
Ramona (Jackie) Ortiz According to documents revealed through an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request Ramona (Jackie) Ortiz was hired 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, passed on second reading on August 16, 2016 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. (For complete story, click here).
Of course, Mr. Barberio states “The salary cap ordinance is a function of two factors, the first being civil service title requirements, raises and the like; and the second being the budget.” Mr. Barberio is correct. The employees were hired using Ordinance 2016:22. There is no 2017 Ordinance in effect. The employees should have been hired using the 2016:22 Ordinance. They were hired in 2016.
Barberio breaks Township Ordinances Elected to Enforce
State Statute, 40:69A-40 states the duties of the Mayor shall enforce the charter and ordinances of the municipality and all general laws applicable thereto.
This is not the first time. In 2014 Parsippany Focus reportedBusiness Administrator Ellen Sandman was hired $15,000 over the maximum salary guideline. When Mayor Barberio announced the hiring of Sandman, he revealed Sandman’s salary would be $140,000. Former Councilman Jonathan Nelson asked the Mayor in Public Session, “I don’t have the white collar salary ordinance in front of me but I believe this amount is over the salary cap,” The former CFO Joe Kovalcik stated that her pay was within the salary ordinance. Parsippany Focus filed an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request for the salary ordinance for white-collar workers at that time.
*The blog indicates it is “Paid for by the Friends of Jamie Barberio, P.O. Box 29, Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034” which is also his political fundraising organization.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Explorers held a pancake fundraiser at Applebee’s Grill & Bar, 1057 Route 46 on Saturday, March 11.
The Police Explorers program gives young adults an opportunity to “explore” a possible career in law enforcement by working and training with members of the Parsippany police force. The program emphasizes academics, character development and self-discipline as well as encouragement to give back to the community.
The Explorers invited the community to a breakfast of Pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs and a beverage choice including coffee, juice, soda and tea. The members of the Explorers were serving up the meals to the guests.
Dowd, Joe Jannarone, Jr., and Explorer Ricky Landy
Ciana Leal serving the breakfast to the guests
Council Vice President Robert Peluso, Lt. Brian Dowd and Council Candidate Casey Parik
Council Candidate Brian Stanton and Police Explorer member Eric Courtney
Police Explorer member Eric Courtney with Karen DeChristopher
Andrea Potesty, Brian Brisson, Toni Brisson, Christopher Brisson, Bella Brisson and Brant Brisson
The Parsippany Explorers
Caleigh Snyder pours the coffee for the patrons
Zoning Board Vice Chairman Nancy Snyder and Resident Nicolas Limanov
Parsippany Police Chief Paul Philipps with Freeholder Candidate Heather Darling
Parsippany Police Chief Paul Philipps with Explorer Michael Haggerty
The Cogan Family: Elizabeth, Marissa, Alison and Justin
Applebee’s Grill & Bar brings together a lively bar & grill experience offering hand-crafted drinks and craveable, simple, American food with flare featuring vibrant flavors and real, fresh ingredients. All Applebee’s restaurants are owned and operated by entrepreneurs dedicated to serving their communities and offering the best in food and drinks with neighborly, genuine service.
NanoGurus, Team #4347, the flagship robotics team of NanoGurus Robotics, is in the midst of an extremely successful championship season
PARSIPPANY — NanoGurus, Team #4347, the flagship robotics team of NanoGurus Robotics, is in the midst of an extremely successful championship season.
The FIRST Tech Challenge is a competition where teams design, build, and program an autonomous and driver-operated robot that must perform a series of tasks in a short two and a half minute period. It is a sporting event like no other, and the hardest fun on the face of earth.
The team competed at the New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania State Championships, winning the top and most prestigious award in New York, The Inspire Award, and the Winning Alliance in the Robotics Tournament in New Jersey, earning their spot at the FTC Super Regional in Scranton, Pennsylvania and they are now going to World Championship in April.
In addition to helping them learn the hard skills of building and programming, coaches Shikha and Anil Saxena have opened their home to instilling essential life skills such as organization, problem solving and teamwork in these young members. The NanoGurus are supported by generous sponsors and mentors and mark their tenth successful year of robots this season!
This year’s team members include Yash Patel and Sabarish Selvarajan, both seniors at Parsippany High School, Mayank Govilla and Sravan Jayanthi, sophomores at the Academy for Mathematics Science and Engineering at Morris Hills High School, Siddarth Swaminathan, Parsippany Hills High School, rookie members Ria Balli is a freshman at The Academy of Mathematics Science and Engineering, and Jeffrey Zhang, an eighth grader at Briarhill Middle School.
Each year FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) announces a new FTC challenge an teams around the world design, build and program their robots to compete. Velocity Vortex, this year’s challenge calls for robots score points by claiming beacons, scoring balls into a five foot high goal, and lifting a large yoga ball up over seventy inches and capping it on the goal. This season has definitely proved itself to be an intense and thrilling journey for the NanoGurus. From failed designs to 3D printed custom pieces, the NanoGurus have built an extraordinary robot that can do a vast range of tasks. Members have been able to build and program awesome robots and showcase their work at their public outreaches and put their efforts to the test at rigorous competitions.
Team members share their competition experience as once in a lifetime. “The most exciting part of the entire experience is when we go to the competitions and see so many different ways to do the same thing. It isa lot of fun making friends with other teams, learn from them and contribute towards collective learning. This is my last year of FTC, I am going to miss FTC a lot when I go to college,” said Yash, who plans to major in Robotics Engineering.
Ria Balli commented, “I have learned to efficiently manage my time and think intricately. As a result of my participation in FTC, my definition of fun has changed from mindless activities to thinking and working hard!”
Siddharth said “One of the great things that come with FTC is the opportunity of being able to apply math and science that are being learned in school to something hand-on.”
Mayank Govilla commented, “I never thought I will be able to teach myself all the cool things I have been able to before I joined FTC. It is super exciting to be able to take charge of my own learning and see it tested on the robots!”
Mayank Govilla demonstrating how the game is played
The NanoGurus is always looking for new parent coaches and mentors to extend more students this fun learning FIRST experience! This season, the team established eight new FIRST Lego League teams, all of which are coached by parents, and mentored by experienced members of this flagship team. New teams start with a training session, followed by mentoring throughout the competition season.
Kavitha, mother of member Siddharth who also coaches a middle school FLL team said that “Coach Shikha takes extra efforts to bring out the best from the kids at the same time gives an opportunity to identify the limitations and improve upon them. Overall this is the place for the young minds to learn and develop important life skills and not limited to communication, organization, presentation skills to help them achieve their dreams and goals. We are proud to be part of Nanogurus.”
Mona Govilla, mother of Mayank remarked “Being an FTC parent for the last three years has opened new avenues in our minds as parents. It is exhilarating to see the kids work together as a team learning incredible and much needed life lessons.”
Mayank Govilla demonstrating how the game is played
All this cannot be done without the support of the community sponsors who take active interest in the development of their future workforce.
Evonik Industries has been the oldest sponsors of the NanoGurus and contribute greatly towards the sustainability of the team, making a huge impact on the competition robotics in the community.
Department of Defence has been sponsoring the team for a while and the team is very grateful to the opportunity to learn professional engineering practices from Thomas Shadis who is the Chief of the Directed Energy and Non-Lethal Branch at Picatinny Arsenal. The team recently had the rare chance to visit Picatinny’s Innovation Labs, Long Range Artillery, and the Additive Manufacturing facilities. Division.
The team is grateful for the kind contributions fromAgadia Systems, H2M Architects, CDMSmith, Subway, RxC International, Inglesino, Webster, Wyciskala &Taylor Attorney at Law and Wing Zone.
Coach Shikha Saxena said, “We believe that our most important job as coaches is to encourage personal growth and development of each team member. The old saying “it needs a village to raise a child” holds true more than before and we are making that village for our children by constantly growing our robotics community in the Par-Troy school district and beyond. In addition to gain competency in robotics and technology, our goal is to help each of our team member become a problem solver who is caring, responsible, and a contributing member of the society.”
NanoGurus Robotics is a non profit organization serving the Par-Troy school district students, offering them a platform to develop passion in technology and robotics. Geared towards engaging k-12 students in using technology productively, the organization is completely run by volunteers who mentor and coach teams. Their motto “Building Robots. Building Character.” is guided by the NanoGurus philosophy of the Strength Based Model, helping the students learn to quantify both action-oriented and cognitive strengths such as hard work, organization, honesty, responsibility and such to understand the level of their own strengths and take charge of their own learning. The coaches open their homes for students as practice fields to prepare for competitions. Experienced members mentor new members and new coaches do not need knowledge of robotics. With requirements of documenting progress, holding public outreaches, development and execution of a business plan for sustainability, the activity is not limited to students interested in STEM.
Next step: The team is going to St. Louis Missouri for World Championship from April 25 to April 29.
PARSIPPANY — Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Co., Dist. #3 Ladies Auxiliary will sponsor its annual Atlantic City Bus Trip on Saturday, April 22, 2017.
The cost of the trip to Resorts Casino is $30.00. Guests receive $15.00 in slot play.
Bus leaves promptly at 8:00 a.m. from the Lake Parsippany Firehouse, 255 Halsey Road.
For additional information please call Barbara (973) 887-6809 or Jane (973) 887-5633.
Resorts Casino Hotel, a Mohegan Sun Property, boasts a prime location spanning 11 acres at the northern end of the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk, with 310 feet of Boardwalk frontage overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. There are 942 guest rooms and suites in two hotel towers, an 83,016 square-foot casino, two theaters, six restaurants along with Quickbites Food Court with five eateries, two VIP player lounges, a casino bar, indoor-outdoor swimming pool, health club and spa, salon, and retail shops.
Gaming guests will find non-stop action in the 80,016 square-foot casino, where more than 70 table games and 1,574 slot machines are open 24 hours a day. Among the highlights:
Hollywood Hills High Limit Slot Area
Margaritaville-themed casino gaming space
Earn: through the resort’s partnership with Mohegan Gaming Advisors, comp dollars are also redeemable at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut and Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs in Pennsylvania.
Guests looking for a quick casual bite can visit, Quick Bites food court, conveniently located on the casino floor and features five eateries
Dunkin Donuts: An American favorite since 1950 for coffee an baked goods.
The Original Soup Man: Founded in 1984 by Al Yeganeh of New York City’s legendary Soup Kitchen International.
Ruby’s Diner: The premier 1940’s – style family restaurant, serving award winning burgers, salads, fountain treats and dinner specials.
Famous Famiglia Pizza: One of America’s fastest-growing pizza chains, specializing in authentic New York City-style pizza since 1986.
Haagen-Dazs: Super-premium ice cream world-renowned for its delicious density.
Breadsticks Cafe & Grill: Salads, burgers, sandwiches, grilled favorites, copper-oven specialties and breakfast, served with a world famous Boardwalk view.
Gallagher’s Burger Bar: A Big Apple classic, specializing in innovative appetizers, sandwiches, and burgers ground from Gallagher’s own dry-aged beef.
LandShark Bar & Grill: The only year-round full-service bar and restaurant on the sand side of the Boardwalk. Featuring nightly entertainment and inspired by the great “beach joints” that once dotted the Atlantic Coast, the venue features retractable walls to provide spectacular views fo the ocean and places guests in the center of the action on the beach and Boardwalk.
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville: Weather guests are looking for a “cheeseburger in paradise” or a surf & turf meal, you’re sure to find it at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. Specializing in all sorts of seafood, the seasonal exterior deck on the Boardwalk will allow guests to enjoy alfresco dining or a drink topped off with a gentle ocean breeze.
The Parsippany United Methodist Church is pleased to again be hosting a Canticles of Life Benefit Concert on Saturday, April 22 at 7:00 p.m. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the first Canticles concert. Since then, over $131,000 has been raised for this music ministry. Presented by the nonprofit Triad Arts Ensemble, the concerts not only benefit three NJ organizations that support those impacted by HIV/AIDS, but they also raise awareness and help to shine God’s love through the compassion, talents and financial gifts of those attending and performing.
Canticles Chairperson Ginny Johnston will be conducting the 26-voice Triad Vocal Ensemble. They will feature a mix of styles including anthems, Broadway, and an inspiring new work, “I Choose Love” by NJ composer Mark Miller. Also performing will be singer/songwriter/ instrumentalists Margo Hennebach and Mark Saunders. The last time they appeared on the Canticles series was as two thirds of the international trio, Mad Agnes. Having just returned from an extended pilgrimage in Ireland, they’ll share their love of Celtic music, incorporate vocal improvisation as learned from Bobby McFerrin, and invite attendees to share their world through on-the-spot creations. And to round out the program will be the Dan Crisci Jazz Trio, offering several instrumental selections. Additionally, panels from the AIDS Memorial Quilt will be on display and a reception will follow the performance. There will also be a time of reflection and sharing by representatives from the charities.
The concert will benefit: New Jersey AIDS Services based in Morristown, the NAMES Project of Northern NJ, which supports the AIDS Memorial Quilt; and the AIDS Resource Foundation for Children in Newark.
Tickets are no longer required to attend. A free-will offering will be accepted at the concert. You can also make tax-deductible contributions online ahead of time. Click here or talk to Pastor Jeff Edwards at (973) 887-4657 for more information. The church is located at 903 South Beverwyck Road.
Building located at 7 Campus Drive in the Mack Cali Campus
PARSIPPANY — Centenary University’s School of Professional Studies (SPS) is now in a new location in Parsippany. It is located at the Mack-Cali Professional Building at 7 Campus Drive. This facility offers more classroom and conference space than before, plus it houses a Social Media Center of Expertise. This Center, which is called #theVIBE, will launch a Social Media Marketing certificate program and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration: Social Media Marketing for adult professionals.
#theVIBE was first launched at Centenary University in Hackettstown in 2015 as a location where students can gain social media expertise and where businesses can leverage the knowledge of social media experts. The launch of this program was so successful that they have built a second Social Media Center at Centenary University’s School of Professional Studies (SPS) in Parsippany.
“The program will help fill the gap we see today in analytic talent and appears to be on the forefront of instilling the skills colleges should be teaching,” says Kevin Hartman, Google Head of Analytics – Consumer Goods and Entertainment Sector.
Students studying Social Media Marketing will be immersed in social media by learning in a modern collaborative environment at #theVIBE, with its impressive touchscreen videowall streaming the latest social media data. This is a rapidly changing field and the program keeps students on the pulse of social media through interactive demos, customized video homework by social media experts, and hands-on use of industry social media listening software. Additionally, embedded in the courses are Google and Facebook certifications. This initiative will be managed by Kathy Naasz, Centenary’s Vice President for Innovation and Tim Guella, Social Media Director.
“The career opportunities in this field, in this part of the country, are massive,” says Naasz. “We can’t fill all the requests from companies looking for social media experts, so the move to Parsippany, to accelerate the training of working professionals who have interest in either expanding their skill set or making a career shift, is the next logical step. We have not even begun to market it and we already have 10 students in the first class in May.”
First established in 1999, Centenary University’s School of Professional Studies (SPS) provides an entrepreneurial approach to the educational experience by offering professional studies to an adult population, allowing students to select the modality most conducive to their busy lifestyle. Students can take classes in a variety of formats: one-night-per-week, completely online or through a blended approach, which combines online and in class methods.
The curriculum combines theory and practical experience, allowing students to apply knowledge acquired immediately. Having conferred thousands of degrees, the School of Professional Studies serves as an inclusive and collaborative learning community dedicated to preparing adult students to progress further in society and to contribute directly to the state’s economic engine.
Kiwanis Club President Greg Elbin, Emily and Michael Mulhaul
PARSIPPANY —University of Scranton, Circle K International member, Emily Mulhaul had an opportunity to visit the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany and discuss her organization, “TheTangibleMore.” Emily is the daughter of Past President Michael Mulhaul.
Mulhaul started, TheTangibleMore, a non profit to encourage unity in our Nation by helping those in immediate need. This is what we can do now for our Homeless Americans. The organization began as a positive and noncontroversial reaction to the Women’s March on January 21, 2017.
In one day, the Women’s March attracted over three million individuals across the United States, with the largest crowds marching through Los Angeles, New York City, Washington, D.C. The streets of cities as large as Los Angeles, New York City, and Washington D.C are shelter for our Homeless Americans. Their goal is to encourage a continual and collective effort and raise three million tangible donations for the 500,000 Homeless Americans.
“We did not forget you when we marched past you,” she said.
The community service club, Circle K, at the University of Scranton donated white socks and undergarments to the local community center for individuals during Fall of 2016. They also donated, 79 toothbrushes and 44 bottles of toothpaste to their local homeless shelter.
The group was formed to deal with the homeless population:
60,000 homeless individuals in New York City
~43,000 homeless individuals in Los Angeles
~11,000 homeless individuals in Washington, D.C
~500,000 homeless individuals in the United States of America
~3 million individuals come together to march in one day
They believe three million could open their hearts to the homeless
This is the positive, noncontroversial, Tangible More
Get Involved. Tell your friends, family, and surrounding community there is more we can do. There’s no better way to make an impact than to continue to be an active advocate yourself. Join now and make an impact!
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany will be helping Emily with her project, locally, by donating to Homeless Solutions. Just recently, Kiwanis member, Nicolas Liamnov, organized a fundraiser to collect coats for the needy at Homeless Solutions.
1633 Littleton Road is located on the corner of Campus Drive and has been vacant since 2014 when Skanska moved to Interpace Parkway. The building is a total of 57,722 square feet on two floors.
PARSIPPANY — Mack-Cali has intervened in the Township’s Mt. Laurel affordable housing action. This means that Mack-Cali is seeking to construct multi-family housing in Parsippany, a portion of which is affordable housing. Although Mack-Cali has not specified in court papers exactly where it seeks to construct such housing, there is speculation that at least one site being considered is 1633 Littleton Road. That property currently consists of a vacant office building.
2 Campus Drive has been purchased by Roseland Residential Trust, Mack-Cali’s multi-family subsidiary
Roseland Residential Trust, Mack-Cali’s multi-family subsidiary, acquired Two Campus Drive in Mack-Cali’s Business Campus for approximately $5.5 million. The strategic acquisition will pave the way for the execution of the mixed-use master plan for the Campus in Parsippany. This property is adjacent to 1633 Littleton Road.
1633 Littleton Road is directly across from Sedgefield
In a undated letter mailed to ONLY Sedgefield and Glacier Hills residents, Mayor James Barberio said “As I sated (sic) in my recent State of the Town address, our ability to comply with New Jersey Supreme Court draconian mandates on affordable housing is one of the most significant changes we face. We will face this challenge together as a community – so that you, the residents, are fully informed about this challenge and have the opportunity to ask questions and share your thoughts, views and opinions.” Click here to view a copy of the letter mailed to Sedgefield and Glacier Hills residents.
Mayor Barberio
Barberio continued “I strongly believe that, given the magnitude of the issue of affordable housing here in Parsippany, I have an obligation to conduct meetings with our residents. The purpose of such meetings is to educate you on the affordable housing issue and what it means to Parsippany and potentially for 1633 Littleton Road.”
“I will be hosting a TOWN HALL meeting for the residents of Sedgefield and Glacier Hills ONLY on Wednesday, March 22, 2017 at Parsippany Town Hall. The meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. At that meeting you will be provided with a special briefing by our Township Attorney, John lnglesino, Esq. Mr. lnglesino will outline the history of the affordable housing law in New Jersey, including recent Supreme Court decisions. He will advise how these decisions will impact Parsippany and what we can do to minimize such impacts. We will also have our Township planner, Ed Sneickus, present to address any planning-related questions you may have. You will have the opportunity to ask questions. We are allotting one hour for remarks by me and my administration and one hour for questions and comments,” he continued.
Glacier Hills resident Brian Tappen told Parsippany Focus “A town meeting is a town meeting. The Open Public Meetings Act, N.J.S.A 10:4-6 (1973) states: All meetings of public bodies in New Jersey must be open to the public unless closure is specifically permitted by law. If a meeting by members of a public body is closed to the public, the reason given must be one specifically authorized under the law. Members of the town should all be allowed to come and voice their opinion. This is a move by the Mayor to sell the people of Glacier Hills and Sedgefield that he is working to help them while attacking community leaders who raised this concern. His letter of 2017-03-01 to Glacier Hills says he will fight any project that is bad for Parsippany, Glacier Hills and Sedgefield, yet when community leaders tried to rally people against the project the Mayor sent letters (2017-01-23) to everyone in Glacier Hills and Sedgefield attacking those community leaders for their actions. The Mayor is trying to violate the Open Public Meetings Act and further his reelection campaign with this ploy.”
“The residents of this town know about the obligation that each town in New Jersey has to secure the numbers every year for low-income housing families. The upcoming Special meeting (for only Sedgefield and Glacier Hills communities) is just another song and dance to side step the truth. We just do not believe that our town’s elected officials would allow for a corporation to dictate where and when these buildings are to go up even if it’s on their own land. Aren’t there many other sites that are better or just a good in this town? The Mack-Cali Complex in Parsippany is 600 acres. The equivalent to a small town in the United States. It should not be allowed to be rezoned for other than what it already has been permitted from this town … Businesses and Hotels,” said Carlo Guzman, President Sedgefield Civic Association.
He continues “Mack-Cali wants to attract commercial companies into it’s complex they can easily modernize those outdated and empty ones or sell them or the entire complex. It was not permitted when Llewellyn and Prudential tried.”
Democrat Mayoral Candidate Michael Soriano stated “The Route 202 corridor is already beyond capacity, and traffic along the road has been an issue that has gone unaddressed by the current administration for far too long.This is an issue that effects most of the residents of Parsippany everyday, and the outcome of the Mack-Cali project will have an impact in every corner of town.I believe that an issue of such importance that it requires a special meeting at town hall with the township attorney present should be open to all residents of Parsippany, and that the residents of Sedgefield and Glacier Hills would welcome their input.”
Mr. Inglesino stated numerous times at Township Council meetings that the courts have not decided Parsippany’s required number of affordable housing units.
Mr. Inglesino also stated at a recent Council Meeting, the meeting will be for the residents of Glacier Hills and Sedgefield and that the Council members are not allowed to attend the meeting. Since the meeting was not being publicly advertised it would be in violation of Open Public Meeting Act if attended by a majority of the Council. Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., is a resident of Sedgefield.
“I am extremely concerned about the Mayor’s actions. It is clear that he is using township funds and facilities, as well as employees, to conduct his political campaign. He is excluding major portions of our community, as well as the Township Council. The Mayor’s agenda is obvious. Our tax dollars are being used to fund his re-election efforts,” stated Robert Peluso Republican Candidate for Mayor.
Democrat Council Candidate Katie Cassidy told Parsippany Focus, “I’m concerned about a change of use in even a portion of the Mack-Cali complex. Building multi-family housing there would have a substantial impact on the township, especially near 202, where the traffic is already a problem. What affects Sedgefield and Glacier Hills affects other communities in the township as well. If an issue is complex enough for both the Attorney and the Planner to be present, the Council should be there as well. Sure, that would require public notice per the Open Public Meetings Act, but that should not be too much to ask. The administration should reschedule the meeting to give adequate time for public notice and hold the meeting at one of the high schools so that anyone concerned can go. Parsippany works best when its many communities come together. We should have an opportunity to do that on this issue.”
Inglesino indicated the meeting will be video-taped and be shown on public access TV and made available to the public.
Township resident Nick Homyak commented “Barberio is dividing the Town into neighborhoods because he doesn’t want another Waterview like grassroots event. This meeting should be open to all Parsippany Residents. The mayor has already sealed the town against against chance of a better outcome.”
Mayor James Barberio’s letter stated “In order that we adequately plan for this event, I ask that you contact my office to advise via email at partroymayorsoffice@parsippany.net or by phone at (973) 263-4297 to confirm your attendance.”
On February 7, 2017, The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council approved a liquor license transfer to Hanover Hospitality Corp, a subsidy of Mack-Cali. The vote passed 3- 2. Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., and Council Vice President Robert Peluso voted against the transfer. There was no location disclosed on the application.
In neighboring Morris Plains, Mack-Cali held a ground breaking ceremony, in August 2016, for its newest luxury multi-family residential community, Signature Place at Morris Plains. The three-story multi-family complex under construction is located approximately one-half mile from 1633 Littleton Road.
Construction has started at Signature Place on Littleton Road, Morris Plains
PARSIPPANY — Pure Restaurant has officially closed to make room for a new Cuban restaurant, Cuba Mia.
Pure Restaurant was located at 707 Route 46. Pure opened in June 2013.
The premises are being renovated and Cuba Mia will be open shortly.
Pure Restaurant is located at Holiday Inn and Suites, and provides room service and breakfast service as well as catering to all the events at Holiday Inn.
The Fannie May Fine Confections Brands, plant is located in North Canton, OH.
PARSIPPANY — 1-800-FLOWERS.COM the leading gourmet food and floral gift provider for all occasions, and Ferrero International S.A., one of the world’s largest chocolate confectionery companies announced the signing of a definitive agreement under which Ferrero will acquire all the outstanding equity of Fannie May Confections Brands, Inc., including its subsidiaries Fannie May Confections, Inc. and Harry London Candies, Inc., from 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. for $115.0 million in cash, adjusted for seasonal working capital.
Ferrero International is located on the fourth floor of Seven Sylvan Drive. In addition to manufacturing Ferrero Chocolate, they also produce Tic Tac and Nutella.
In 1969 that Ferrero U.S.A. first opened for business in New York City. To introduce the Ferrero story in the vast and unique U.S. market, Ferrero U.S.A., Inc. chose as its lead product, not the enormous Nutella® brand or one of the hugely successful Ferrero chocolates, but rather the smallest Ferrero wonder of all – Tic Tac® mints!
Shortly after its introduction, the signature Tic Tac® mints “Tree” display was appearing at U.S. checkouts everywhere and America was singing along with Ferrero’s catchy:
“Put a Tic Tac® in your mouth and get a BANG out of life!”
Repositioned in 1980 as “The 1 1/2 Calorie Breath Mint®,” Tic Tac® has grown continuously, and today enjoys the position of #1 selling breath mint in the U.S.
The distinctive green of Tic Tac® was followed by the dazzling gold of Ferrero Rocher®, the fine chocolate and hazelnut “praline.” Is it any surprise that Rocher® is rapidly becoming a mainstay of increasingly-sophisticated American tastes, and that Ferrero is once again making quality confections a part of everyday life … for treats as well as gifts.
Following the success of Tic Tac® and Rocher®, consumers are now beginning to enjoy the distinctive taste of Nutella® hazelnut spread. As it rapidly gains distribution and awareness across the U.S., it’s destined to become as big a success here as it is in Europe.
In addition to the sale agreement,1-800-FLOWERS.COM and Ferrero will enter into a strategic commercial partnership, to be signed on or before closing of the sale, that will provide 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. with distribution rights for Fannie May, Harry London and certain Ferrero confectionery products in its ecommerce channels as well as in gift baskets and towers sold into the club, food, drug and mass channels in the US.
Chris McCann, CEO said, “We are very excited to be working with Ferrero International, one of the world’s largest and most respected confectionery companies. This transaction will further strengthen our balance sheet while concurrently reducing the working capital requirements in our business model. Importantly, the strategic commercial agreement with Ferrero will enable us to continue offering the iconic Fannie May and Harry London chocolate brands across our ecommerce and wholesale channels and expand our product offerings to include some of Ferrero’s world-renowned chocolate confectionery brands, including Nutella, Ferrero Rocher and Raffaello – further enhancing our ability to help our customers deliver smiles.”
Giovanni Ferrero, Chief Executive Officer of Ferrero Group, said, “We are excited that Fannie May will be joining the Ferrero Group. We have long admired Fannie May’s premium brand, products and people, and believe Fannie May is an extraordinarily good fit with Ferrero. As we have grown from a family business founded in Italy in 1946 to a leading global confectionery company, we have been guided by our key values of loyalty and trust, respect and responsibility, integrity, passion for quality, research and innovation, and entrepreneurship. Since our entry into the U.S. in 1969, we have actively expanded our premium product offering organically, and are thrilled to further accelerate growth through the addition of Fannie May. We look forward to adding Fannie May’s outstanding team and valuable manufacturing, distribution and retail platform to Ferrero’s expanding U.S. presence, and to supporting and growing this iconic American brand for years to come.”
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals and is expected to close by May 30, 2017. At closing, Ferrero will acquire all the outstanding equity of Fannie May Confections Brands, Inc., including the Fannie May and Harry London chocolate brands and all related assets and liabilities including, but not limited to, Fannie May’s ecommerce business,79 retail stores located primarily in and around Chicago, IL, a manufacturing facility in North Canton, OH, and two temperature-controlled warehouse and distribution facilities, located in Maple Heights, OH, and Chicago, IL, respectively.
PARSIPPANY — If there’s anything that can make cracking open a box of fresh Girl Scout Cookies even better, it’s knowing that you’ve contributed to helping Girl Scouts learn the skills they need to succeed in life and make the world a better place.
Northvail Elementary School Girl Scout Troops 9652, 9656 and 96713 were at QuickChek, 480 North Beverwcyk Road selling their famous cookies. They will be there from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. today.
In addition, on Sunday, March 19, they will be at Foodtown, 435 North Beverwyck Road from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. again selling famous Girl Scout cookies.
Remember, because 100 percent of the net revenue raised through the Girl Scout Cookie Program stays with local councils, when you purchase Girl Scout Cookies you’re not only getting a delicious treat—you’re also making an important investment in our community.
Council Candidate Chris Martino, Mayor Candidate Robert Peluso and Council Candidate Casey Parikh
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Republican Council Candidate Casey Parikh recently held a fundraising event at Tandoori Flames.
Casey was joined by many friends, neighbors and family members for an sold-out afternoon luncheon at Tandoori Flames, 1557 Route 46.
Casey is running on a Republican Ticket with Council Candidate Chris Martino and Mayor Candidate Robert Peluso.
Parikh is a retired executive and a dedicated public servant who has spent 24 years working to preserve the fabric of our community.
Parikh’s commitment to Parsippany will ensure responsible growth while maintaining the standards we expect. He holds a BS Electrical Engineering – Bombay, India; MS Computer Science – Melbourne, FL and MBA – Melbourne, FL.
Parikh has been a Parsippany resident for 29 years and moved to USA in 1978. He is married to Dr. Rita Parikh for 36 years, and they have a daughter Dr. Coral Parikh, Graduate of Parsippany Hills High School.
Casey Parikh
Dr. Coral Parikh lives with her husband Krishna in New York City. They also have a son, Emil Parikh, also a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School and he resides in New York City.
Casey worked at Kennedy Space Center, FL as a Space Shuttle launch team member at NASA. He has over 30 years of experience in the Security industry with Management and Budgeting experience. Worked at ADT/Tyco security as a Director. Casey managed up to 350 technical people in USA and Canada. He retired in 2013 after working for 36 years in the professional field to dedicate my time to volunteer for community services.
Freeholder Hank Lyons, Casey Parikh and Freeholder Deborah Smith
Many friends, neighbors, family members joined in the event
Many friends, neighbors, family members joined in the event
Boy Scout Troop 72 digging out the PSC clubhouse after Tuesday's big snow fall
PARSIPPANY — Boy Scout Troop 72 was helping digging out the Parsippany Soccer Club clubhouse after Tuesday’s big snow fall.
For over 60 years Boy Scout Troop 72 has served the youth of the general Parsippany area, including Boonton, Denville, Parsippany, and Morris Plains. Boys from ages 11 to 18 are invited to join.
The former TD Bank on North Beverwyck Road was robbed in 2017. File Photo
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany–Troy Hills Police Chief Paul Philipps and Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announce the arrest of Gabriel Reyes, 25, Washington Township, Morris County, on charges related to a Robbery that occurred on March 6, 2017 at the TD Bank located at 430 North Beverwyck Road, Parsippany.
Gabriel Reyes was charged with one count of Robbery, a crime of the first degree. Reyes was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility on a warrant complaint in accordance with the Criminal Justice Reform Act.
The bank on North Beverwyck Road was robbed on March 6, 2017
The charges arise from a report of a bank robbery occurring at the above-location in Parsippany at approximately 2:20 p.m. on March 6, 2017. The report contained a description of a male entering the bank, demanding money, threatening the use of a gun, and fleeing the scene in a vehicle. A sum of money was taken during the incident.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200, or the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department at (973) 263-4300.
Numerous law enforcement agencies assisted in the investigation of the Robbery at the Parsippany TD Bank, including the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the Parsippany–Troy Hills Police Department, the Belleville Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Section and K-9 Unit, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office reports that Gabriel Reyes was also charged with two counts of first degree Robbery for allegedly committing robberies at the TD Bank in Roseland on March 4, 2017, and the TD Bank in West Orange on March 11, 2017.
Prosecutor Knapp thanked all of the agencies who participated in this investigation and arrest: “The joint efforts and coordination of multiple law enforcement agencies in two counties led to the swift apprehension of the defendant. Led by detectives of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, we were able to take this potentially dangerous individual off the streets.”
A complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a Court of Law.
MORRIS COUNTY — Heather Darling, a 42 year Morris County resident, is running for the open Morris County Freeholder seat vacated by Hank Lyon. Although she is a businesswoman, not a politician, Heather has been involved in Morris County politics for some time, having served as President of the Republican Club of Roxbury for four years and Secretary of the Club for the nine years prior. She also served on the Board of the Morris County Women’s Republican Club.
“I believe that the public has sent a clear message that they no longer want career politicians or those selected by the current candidates to further their own positions with a “yes” vote. I intend to bring a fresh perspective to the Freeholder Board and am fully in touch with the issues within the county,” Darling stated.
Darling’s multi-faceted platform includes bringing economic growth through business expansion and job growth to Morris County through supporting free enterprise and small business. She intends to do this by encouraging programs at County College of Morris and Morris County Vo-Tech, both in-house and through relationships with other New Jersey schools, that will provide a viable labor force for both small and large business in Morris County as one of the most frequent complaints by business owners is the unavailability of highly-qualified and skilled employees. She intends to encourage municipalities to work cohesively to create a countywide map including preservation of open space with residential and economic expansion areas that would lead to a financially prosperous Morris County offering quality recreation areas including our many parks and lakes. Reducing residential taxes through expanding viable business in Morris County is a key focus which may be addressed by creating planned business zones, rather than the random projects which have lead to the many empty hulking office buildings around the area. Programs for seniors, people with disabilities and veterans must continue to offer the care and resources needed and cannot be cut for other projects. Finally, infrastructure in Morris County, most visibly our roads, must be addressed with the proper attention and projects must be supervised to ensure quality results.
Heather Darling has dedicated much of her time to community service as vice-chair of the Roxbury Economic Development Committee, member of the Zoning Board of Adjustment and Environmental Commission, board member of the Roxbury Chamber of Commerce and president of a group of volunteers that implemented a dog park in Roxbury. She is also an alumnus of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Morris program. This program is designed for those looking to become future leaders in Morris County with an eye toward public and community service.
Professionally, Heather Darling is principal of The Darling Law Firm and President of her family’s real estate business. Through this, Darling has experience with budgets, managing employees and seeking bids for commercial projects. As an attorney, Heather volunteers her time as a Special Civil Mediator and Early Settlement Panelist in the Morris and Sussex County Courts along with her participation in both State and local public defender programs where lawyers are paid a fractional rate to assist those who cannot afford representation. She has volunteered with the Morris County Housing Partnership and the County College of Morris Women’s Center. Darling was admitted to membership to the NJ Bar in 2003, NY Bar in 2004, and PA Bar in 2013. She is also a member of the Morris County Bar Association.
Heather received her Juris Doctorate from Seton Hall University School of Law, Newark, New Jersey in May 2002 where she participated in the Fair Housing Clinic program. Prior to attending law school, Heather graduated from the New York University, Stern School of Business receiving her Bachelor of Science in Finance and International Business. While attending Stern, she was elected to serve on the Student Council. Darling worked in the New York and New Jersey financial markets for the next four years until joining her family’s real estate business.
Darling’s level of discipline and commitment is evident in her past success as competitive bodybuilder wherein she won the New Jersey State Bodybuilding Championships in 2002, 2005 and 2011, the NPC Suburban Bodybuilding Championships in 2002 and 2005 and the East Coast Bodybuilding Championships Heavy Weight class in 2009. Today, she is still an avid fitness buff and can be seen walking her rescue dog around her Succasunna neighborhood. Heather’s affiliations also include associate membership in the Italian American Police Society of New Jersey, membership in the Morris County 200 Club, past service on the board of Noah’s Ark animal shelter and participation in the Morris County Clerk’s Operation Give Back program offering discounted services to veterans.
For more information about Heather Darling for Freeholder, visit her Facebook page by clicking here or email DarlingForFreeholder@gmail.com.
MORRIS COUNTY — Willy is about 5-5 1/2 months old and weighs about fifteen pounds. He has a beautiful white and black coat and has some brown on his face. And, just look at that face….Adorable!!
Wilson “Willy”
Wilson and his brother Winston were found abandoned on the rural streets of North Carolina, something we see way too often in that area. Luckily, we were able to save them and they are now living in a foster home in New Jersey. Willy is sweet and shy. He is very happy to be in a foster home because he is getting good food, toys, treats, soft bed and lots of love that he never had before!
This is what his foster mom says about him…. “When Willy came to live with us he was very shy, but he has made a lot of progress. Willy loves lounging around most of the day and can easily entertain himself with a Kong or Rope Toy. He now enjoys sitting beside me on his doggie blanket and will approach me to take treats from my hand or to sniff me. Whenever I speak to him and say “Hi Willy” he almost always gives me a little snort from his nose as if he’s trying to say “hey” back. Willy is house trained on a training pad and is learning to go outside. Willy would do well in a calm home without young children. Don’t let his shyness fool you, he really is just a love!”
Willy is such a sweet pup, and we recommend someone who has the patience and can spend time acclimating him to his new home. It takes him a few weeks to get comfortable in his new surroundings. He is quite shy. Willy was not accustomed to human touch before being in a foster home, and he is just beginning to learn that being pet is actually quite nice! He’s beginning to trust people. He is learning humans are in his life now to help him. Willy is making progress in his foster home…when he first arrived he wouldn’t even leave his crate, but now he been out of the crate all day (except when his foster family leaves the home or overnight). He also has been going outside voluntarily. Willy lets the foster touch him, he will sniff her, and take treats from her hand. When Willy meets new people he will likely not come close. His new family should understand that it will take him time to feel comfortable. His new family needs to have a desire to want to help him succeed. And they should realize that WIlly is a work in progress. But we are assure you he will come around! Willy has already made large steps towards a brighter future.
We recommend that the adoptive family work with a trainer so it’s easier for him to get acclimated. We can recommend one that has met with Willy already, or you can work with one you already have.”
We are sure if you adopt Willy, he will be a devoted companion. He just needs the right person to call his own. Willy is truly a diamond in the ruff!
Anyone interested in adopting Willy please email FHDR@att.net for an adoption application.
To see more photos and a video clip of Willy, click here.
PARSIPPANY — This week 49 new Virginia State Police troopers will report to their respective Division Headquarters to begin the final phase of their training. The 125th Basic Session celebrated their graduation Friday, March 10, at the state police Academy in North Chesterfield County.
Trooper Toren R. Horvath
Upon receiving their diplomas, the new troopers finished a rigorous 29-week training session. They received instruction in more than 100 different subjects spanning hundreds of hours. Academy training includes such areas as crime scene investigation, survival Spanish, judicial procedures, self- defense, cultural diversity and firearms.
Trooper Toren R. Horvath, 30, began his new assignment and will spend the next six weeks with a field training officer learning their new patrol areas and day-to-day duties.
A native of Lake Hiawatha and a 2004 graduate of Parsippany High School, Trooper Horvath also graduated from James Madison University with a degree in Justice Studies. He sought a career with the Virginia State Police “to fulfill a lifelong dream with one of the best agencies in the country.”
Prior to becoming a trooper, he served two years with the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice. He will report for duty in Dulles, Va. primarily working the Dulles Greenway.
As the need for highly-skilled and capable law enforcement officers increases, the Department continues to seek qualified applicants for the trooper and commercial vehicle enforcement officer positions. All interested applicants are encouraged to contact the Virginia State Police Recruitment Office. More information can be found by visiting the Department’s website by clicking here.
Brandon Ng, Steven Feng, Mann Pandya, Ananya Iyengar, Cavin Anbuselvam, Saketh Nibhanupudi, Kevin Yang, Peter Chiu, Rakshay Kanthadai, Rahul Shah, Tara Kakkaramadam, Patricia Nguyen, Amy Liu (not pictured: Meliton Rulloda)
PARSIPPANY — After placing second in the region last month, the Parsippany Hills High School Academic Decathlon (AcDec) Team participated in the New Jersey State Competition on Saturday, March 4 at Ramapo High School.
Parsippany Hills High School’s team of eight members and five alternates placed third in the state and third for the Super Quiz. Team members who participated were: Cavin Anbuselvam, Peter Chiu, Ananya Iyengar, Tara Kakkaramadam, Rakshay Kanthadai, Patricia Nguyen, Saketh Nibhanupudi, and Rahul Shah. Alternate team members who participated were: Steven Feng, Amy Liu, Mann Pandya, Meliton Rulloda and Kevin Yang. Overall, the Parsippany Hills High School team took home almost 30 awards and honors for the state competition.
Academic Decathlon is a 10-event scholastic competition for high school students. The events include math, science, social science, literature, economics, art, music, speech, essay and interview. This year’s theme is World War II. Team coaches are Jaclyn Bevacqua, Italian teacher and Jacqueline Forte, Spanish teacher.
PARSIPPANY — You know the weather is bad when Dunkin’ Donuts is closed. The sign placed on the door at Dunkin’ Donuts, 199 Littleton Road states they are closing Monday, March 14 at 10:00 p.m. and reopen today, Tuesday, March 14 at 8:00 p.m.
A random check of area stores show that Quick Chek, 170 Parsippany Road and Krauszer’s Food Stores,312 Parsippany Road are both open.
Ferrero International is located on the fourth floor of Seven Sylvan Drive. In addition to manufacturing Ferrero Chocolate, they also produce Tic Tac and Nutella.
