Local News | Parsippany Focus

34th Annual Lead East returns to Parsippany

Frank L. Cahill

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Sep 1, 2016

34th Annual Lead East returns to Parsippany

PARSIPPANY — Lead East is a five day Oldies Music and Old Car Festival Weekend unlike any event held anywhere on this planet. The word Lead is old car vernacular meaning customized car. It’s what auto body men used before Bondo auto body filler was invented.

Lead East starts on Wednesday, August 31 through Sunday, September 4 at the Parsippany Hilton, One Hilton Court.

The event delivers a series of events that celebrates the 50’s decade. Over the years more than 250,000 people have attended the event.

LEAD EAST is not just another “run of the mill” car show where nothing happens. It’s a giant 50’s PARTY, a Festival of the Fifties, offering more unique events than 15 normal shows put together! People come together every year, set up their pop-up tents and BBQ’s next to one another, and kick back to wallow in the good vibrations that permeate the air for this magic, nostalgic weekend. The mellow atmosphere that glows day and night over Parsippany every Labor Day Weekend is unmatched by any old car or oldies music festival anywhere!

When the Hilton gets sold out, or for people who can’t stay four nights, Hanover Marriott across the street where you can stay 2-3 nights is recommended. The Marriott will be operating a Free Shuttle bus from 9:00 a.m. to midnight to the front gate of Lead East for hotel guests. The Marriott is the only hotel offering a shuttle service. There will be a portion of the Marriott parking lot designated for old car parking only.

If you are staying at any other hotel, Uber is available 24 hours a day. If you don’t have an Uber account, you can get your first ride free worth up to $15.00 by using this code: 7m4wn.

GENERAL ADMISSION**
(Prices include tax)

Adults – Thursday: $15.00 (18 and older)
Junior – Thursday: $10.00 (12 to 17 years old)
Adults – Friday, Saturday and Sunday: $20.00 (18 and older)
Juniors -Friday, Saturday and Sunday: $15.00 (12 to 17 years old)

Children 11 & under admitted free to car show when accompanied by adult. Children need a ticket for Saturday and Sunday night Oldies Concerts & Friday night Dance Party. Because the Admission price was dropped to $10, there is no Senior Discount.

3-DAY WEEKEND WRISTBANDS: Weekend Adult Wristband: $55.00; Weekend Junior Wristband: $40.0; and children under 12 accompanied by Adult are free.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Wednesday, August 31, 2016
2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Plan A Cars with Wed. night hotel reservations at Hilton/Hampton Inn pick up their Plan A 2016 credentials on entry road and check into hotels.

12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m.
VIP Early 2017 hotel reservations and 2017 Old Car Registration and Plan A Car parking reservations available in Hilton Lobby for those guests staying in the Hilton / Hampton Inn Hotel Wednesday night.

7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
KICKOFF PARTY in the Hotel Ballroom with D.J. LIL’ JIMMY

Thursday, September 1, 2016
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Plan A’s checking into Hilton/Hampton Inn Thursday pick up their Old Car Registration at Hilton entry road. Only Plan A cars admitted to the event on Thursday. All other old cars and spectators park in Campus 6 Lot. Trailers and tow vehicles park in Trailer Lot.

10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
VIP Early 2017 hotel reservations and 2017 Old Car Registration and Plan A Parking Spot Reservations available for those guests checking into the Hilton and/or Hampton Inn. This is a golden opportunity to renew your existing room.

12:00 Noon to 10:00 p.m.
DJ JERRY “The Wolfman” BURST playing Oldies outdoors.

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tickets for Friday Night Dance Party, Saturday & Sunday Oldies Concerts, and Prom (FREE) on sale in coatroom inside revolving door.

8:00 p.m. ’til he quits…
WELCOME PARTY with THE GOLDEN GUP spinnin’ in the Ballroom.

8:00 p.m.
OUTDOOR MOVIES at the ACE DRIVE-IN Theatre: Tonight GENE AUTRY and THE PHANTOM EMPIRE (1935) a s Sci-Fi/Musical/Western; SOME LIKE IT HOT (1959) with JACK LEMON, MARILYN MONROE and TONY CURTIS; GODZILLA vs. SPACE GODZILLA (1994) with multiple monsters. Bring lawn chairs. We’ve had Drive-In movies every year for 34 years!

11:00 p.m.
CURFEW FOR KIDS (into hotel rooms or leave the property)

Friday, September 2, 2016
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Midnight
LEAD EAST Open to the Public. Non-Plan A old cars park in Campus 6; Tow vehicles and trailers park in Trailer Lot.

9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
50’s COLLECTIBLES SHOW in Rear Ballroom and Ballroom Pre-Assembly area and expanded into Elements Ballroom: Juke boxes, vintage clothes, Elvis, Marilyn, and James Dean memorabilia, and lots of other goodies for sale!

9:00 a.m. to NOON
Old Car Registration for Plan A’s from Friday morning on, will take place on Hilton entry road.

10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Tickets for Friday Night Dance Party, and Saturday & Sunday Oldies Concerts on sale in Main Hallway, just inside from the revolving door. Prom Tickets (FREE but limited) here, too.

10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Midnight
Outdoor D.J. JERRY “WOLFMAN” BURST spins platters, does requests, dedications, and announcements. Tune your radio to 88.1 FM for our low-power broadcast from his outdoor HQ tent in the Rear Hilton Lot near Hampton Inn entrance.

12:00 Noon until ?
Free SHAG DANCE LESSONS by TONY & SUZY ELDRITH of Pfafftown, NC. Elements Ballroom. This dance is a real challenge. We suggest you attend lessons all three days!

12:00 NOON to 12:00 Midnight
50’s KARAOKE and Open Mike presented by PAT FERANTE in Hotel Lobby Atrium. Expanded seating area: Plenty of chairs for people to sit down all weekend!

3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Plan B OLD CAR REGISTRATION: The B LOT (7 Campus) opening time TO BE ANNOUNCED (subject to property owner’s approval). ONLY Pre-Registered Plan B cars with reserved parking spot in Campus 7 (Kraft) Lot may pick up credentials Friday afternoon. Pre-Registered B cars with or without a reserved parking spot in C LOT (upper Diiachi) pick up credentials at 5:00 p.m. Diiachi C & D LOTS opens after 5:00 p.m. .

5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
On-site Non-Pre Registered Plan B’s: Do not come to Car Registration until 5:00 p.m. , then park in Daiichi Lot. Because this is a business complex operating during the week, please don’t bring your B cars Friday morning and expect to get into the event. Park in Campus 6 before Registration opens to B cars.

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
COOLEST CRUISER CONTEST. Be a star in your car by the Outdoor Stage – while Wolfman makes comments!

5:00 p.m. throughout the Weekend
NEW! TWO HANDICAPPED PARKING LOTS: One by Old Car Registration by GAF Lot (FREE Shuttle bus rides from here to Main Ticket Booth and back) and second located in the Campus 9 parking lot off Hilton Court, immediately adjacent to our Main Spectator Ticket Booth. We do not have use of these Spectator Parking Lots until 5:00 p.m. Friday. When you enter the property, ask the Parking Attendant to direct you to HANDICAPPED Parking Area.

5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
On-site Non-Pre Registered Plan B’s: Do not come to Car Registration until 5:00 p.m., then park in Daiichi Lot. Because this is a business complex operating during the week, please don’t bring your B cars Friday morning and expect to get into the event. Park in Campus 6 before Registration opens to B cars.

7:30 p.m.
FRIDAY NIGHT DANCE PARTY in the Ballroom. Come dance your socks off with THE GREYHOUNDS! $10 for anyone already inside the event, or $10.00 plus General Admission for anyone not inside the event.

8:00 p.m.
“SENIOR” SOCK HOP at our Outdoor Stage (largest dance area) with THE RAVE ON BAND. a great BUDDY HOLLEY and ROY ORBISON Tribute band from Union, NJ. DJ’d by LIL’ JIMMY from Peabody, MA. Enter the Best Dancer Contest Preliminaries at 10:30 p.m., where three couples will be selected for Saturday night’s DANCE OFF.

8:00 p.m.
OUTDOOR 50’s MOVIES at the ACE DRIVE-IN THEATRE. Tonight’s quintuple feature: It’s Documentary/Vintage Rock and big whale night. ROCK ROCK ROCK (1956) a classic with FRANKIE LYMON & THE TEENAGERS, THE MOONGLOWS, CHUCK BERRY, THE FLAMINGOES, TUESDAY WELD (with CONNIE FRANCIS’ voice dubbed in) & ALAN FREED; 3 short documentaries: The cars of MAD MAX FURY ROAD; The DVM (Department of Mutant Vehicles) at BURNING MAN and INGENUITY IN ACTION, the NHRA NATIONAL DRAGS OF 1958; If we have time, MOBY DICK (1956) with GREGORY PECK. Bring lawn chairs.

8:45 p.m.
Best Jr. Bobby Soxer, Jr. Greaser, and Jr. Nerd CONTESTS in Lobby Atrium

10:30 p.m. (time approximate)
DANCE CONTEST PRELIMINARIES by Outdoor Stage

11:00 p.m.
CURFEW FOR KIDS (into hotel rooms or leave the property)

Saturday, September 3, 2016
8:00 a.m.
Old Car Registration opens in GAF Parking Lot off Campus Drive. If you did not Pre-Register your old car as a Plan A or Plan B, get there early! Pre-registered and on site One Day Saturday cars welcomed again!

9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Midnight
LEAD EAST Open to the Public. 1,400+ 1972 and earlier Cars, Hot Rods, Street Rods, Rat Rods, Stock Restored Cars, and other Custom Cars on display in four parking lots.

9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
50’s COLLECTIBLES SHOW in Rear Ballroom , Ballroom Pre-Assembly area, and two additional rooms: Juke boxes, vintage clothes, Elvis, Marilyn, and James Dean memorabilia, and lots of other goodies for sale!

9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Drop off unwrapped toys or $ donation in area outside front door of Hotel for Military Transport Association TOYS FOR TOTS collection for the US MARINE RESERVE unit at Picatinny Arsenal. To be distributed to needy North Jersey kids for upcoming holiday season.

10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Midnight
Outdoor D.J. JERRY “WOLFMAN” BURST spins platters, does requests, dedications, and announcements. Tune your radio to 88.1 FM for our low-power broadcast from his outdoor HQ tent in the Rear Hilton Lot near Hampton Inn entrance.

10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
All of the remaining unsold Hilton and Hampton Inn rooms for LEAD EAST 2017 will go on sale in the Hilton Lobby. You need to book a four-night stay (Thursday. through Sunday.) and Credit Cards will not be accepted. A one night’s stay deposit in cash or check is required.

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Is your old car broken? Go see the nice guys from MEADOWLANDS STREET ROD ASSOCIATION in their HOT ROD REPAIR SHOP in the Hilton Lot. They also conduct free NSRA Safety Inspections.

10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Reserved seat tickets for Saturday & Sunday Oldies Concerts on sale in Main Hallway, just inside from the revolving door. Pick up Prom Tickets (FREE but limited) here, too.

10:00 a.m. until ???
Strolling A Cappella group STILL AROUND continues the LEAD EAST tradition of wandering indoors and out, popping up and singing great four- and five-part harmony.

10:00 a.m. until ???
NEW! FISHING IN LAKE Pb (periodic symbol for Lead) for kids and adults. Last time we knew there were fish in the pond. BYO fishing pole, etc.

11:00 a.m.
Register to compete for Saturday’s two-hour DOO WOP IDOL Competition with Rob and Laura Albanese in the Lobby Atrium. Those who don’t sign up may be worked into the schedule.

11:00 a.m.
Meet Special Guest LARRY ERICKSON from Detroit, famed designer of ZZ Top’s CADZILLA, former Chief Designer of the 2005 Mustang Design Team, and builder/owner of the Chevy Highboy, the car that should have won America’s Most Beautiful Roadster at San Mateo Grand National Roadster Show. He and famed rod builder ROY BRIZIO from South San Francisco, CA (tentative) will give a SEMINAR on rod styling and building. Also including rod builder DERRICK PESKO from Waterford, CT. Three great guys you and meet and chat with.

11:00 a.m. throughout the day
A small army of clowns will provided a variety of activities for kids, with photo opportunities.

11:00 a.m. to Noon
Free BASIC 50’s DANCING LESSONS at Outdoor Stage presented by LOU VINCI and MICHELLE LEOTTA.

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 12:00 Midnight
50’s KARAOKE and OPEN MIKE directed by PAT FERANTE in the Hotel Lobby Atrium. Pat provides the recorded music for the KARAOKE. He is authorized to supervise the KARAOKE & OPEN MIKE event. Pat will flip-flop back and forth from KARAOKE to OPEN MIKE for you to get up and perform. The best part of it is the high quality performances of a big percentage of those participating!

12:00 Noon until ?
Free SHAG DANCE LESSONS by TONY & SUZY ELDRITH of Pfafftown, NC. Elements Ballroom. This dance is a real challenge. We suggest you attend lessons all three days!

12:00 Noon until ?
NEW! Live entertainment outdoors at the Gazebo. Oldies band THE JERSEY SHORE ROUSTABOUTS, plus solo act from Bellville, DAVE BEASLEY “BOP WITH THE BEAS”. We’re providing a new venue for spectators to sit and relax. If you’ve got an old car, bring your lawn chairs to the Gazebo. Some chairs provided for spectators.

12:00 Noon to 2:00 p.m.
PUZZLE CONTEST and TWO HOUR MODEL CAR CONTEST by Outdoor Pool. Two categories: 17 and younger & 18 and older. We supply the models FREE. All models will be the same. Only the parts supplied can be used. No parts can be pre–assembled. 1/24 or 1/25 scale kits. Every year this gets bigger and better.

12:00 Noon to 5:00 p.m.
A LEAD EAST tradition, killer Rockabilly band, the always wicked RAZORBACKS featuring KENNY DUDA, perform on the Outdoor Stage. Dancing is encouraged, in fact it’s mandatory!

12:00 Noon to 8:00 p.m.
MAKE-A-WISH Foundation Charity Raffle. Free Children’s Activities (face painting, etc.) in Main Hall near Hotel Ballroom, inside revolving door. Last year’s 50-50 total amounted to a record $46,215, and the winner DEE SALOMONE, Make-A-Wish volunteer, donated half of her winnings back to the charity! Make- A-Wish has raised over $210,000 in the 13 years they have been doing the 50/50 at LEAD EAST.

12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
DOO WOP IDOL in Lobby Atrium. Any amateur individual or group can sign up, get on stage, and perform one song in “IDOL” competition. Judges select one winner for $300 cash prize. Today’s winner will also perform one song on stage in Hotel Ballroom in Saturday night Oldies Concert and option to do the same Sunday night. One year, five finalists each got an opportunity to perform on stage at the Saturday night Concert.

12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Day #1 of A Cappella Doo Wop Show with four groups in the Hotel Ballroom. Fabulous five-part harmony, a vocal art form. No extra admission charge for anyone inside the event. Saturday’s groups include THE WHIPTONES, CHERISHED MEMORIES, STILL AROUND, and MEMORIES OF YOU.

1:00 p.m. (time approximate)
NEW! PIE-EATING CONTEST at Outdoor Stage during RAZORBACKS’ first band break. Kids and adults welcome to compete.

3:00 p.m. (time approximate)
BACK AGAIN! BEST DRESSED 50‘s CONTEST at Outdoor Stage. $100 Prize. Gals compete against guys.

7:00 p.m.
GOLDEN OLDIES CONCERT in the Hotel Ballroom starring THE HEARTBEATS (“A Thousand Miles Away”), EUGENE PITT & THE JIVE FIVE (“My True Story”), CLEVELAND STILL & THE DUBS (“Could This Be Magic?”), THE FIREFLIES (“You Were Mine”), plus top A Cappella groups MEMORIES OF YOU and The WHIPTONES. Also one song by Saturday’s DOO WOP IDOL Winner. MC’d by COOL BOBBY B of Sirius XM Radio. With intermission. Reserved seat tickets available online, by calling (908) 876-9100, or at the event. Concert ticket allows entry to event after 6:00 p.m. without purchase of Event General Admission Spectator Ticket.

8:00 p.m.
NEW: Fabulous MA blues band THE MEDICINAL PURPOSE outdoors at the GAZEBO.

8:00 p.m. to 12:00 Midnight
OUTDOOR 50’s MOVIES at the ACE DRIVE-IN THEATRE. Tonight’s triple feature: THE GIRL CAN’T HELP IT (1957) with JAYNE MANSFIELD. Songs by FATS DOMINO, THEPLATTERS, GENE VINCENT & THE BLUE CAPS, LITTLE RICHARD & THE TRENIERS (who invented Rock ‘n Roll years before BILL HALEY & THE COMETS); I WAS A TEENAGE WEREWOLF (1957) with MICHAEL LANDON and YVONNE LIME; and WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE (1951).

8:30 p.m. to 12:00 Midnight
THE GOLDEN GUP and the RHYTHMHANCERS perform on Outdoor Stage. A LEAD EAST tradition – the asphalt will rock, jump, and wiggle! Absolutely one of the most rockin’ scenes at the event. Bring your lawn chairs.

9:00 p.m.
DANCE CONTEST FINALS by Outdoor Stage

11:00 p.m.
CURFEW FOR KIDS (into hotel rooms or leave the property)

1:00 AM (approx.) until it ends (sunrise?)
The GOLDEN GUP’s officially sanctioned late night Rhythm n’ Blues PARKING LOT PARTY with his jukebox-powered, shockingly pink “JUKEBUG.” No other car event on this planet has activities scheduled ’til dawn! At previous LEAD EASTs they went ’til sunrise!!

Sunday, September 4, 2016

8:00 a.m.
Old Car Registration for Sunday One-day 1974 and earlier vehicle participants; parking in Daiichi Lot.

9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Midnight
LEAD EAST Open to the Public. Tow vehicles and trailers park in Trailer parking lot. See 1,400+ 1974 and earlier Cars, Hot Rods, Street Rods, Rat Rods, Stock Restored Cars, and other Custom Cars on display in four parking lots.

9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
SUNDAY CHAPEL SERVICE at the outdoor Gazebo with Event Director JIM CRAIG. Bring lawn chairs & blankets. (Rain location: Hotel Ballroom)

9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
50’s COLLECTIBLES SHOW in Rear Ballroom and Ballroom Pre-Assembly area and two additional rooms: Juke boxes, vintage clothes, Elvis, Marilyn, and James Dean “stuff” for sale!

9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Drop off unwrapped toys or $ donation in area outside front door of Hotel for Military Transport Association TOYS FOR TOTS collection for the US MARINE RESERVE unit at Picatinny Arsenal. To be distributed to needy North Jersey kids for upcoming holiday season.

10:00 AM until ???
Strolling A Cappella group PARTY OF 5 continues the LEAD EAST tradition of wandering indoors and out, popping up and singing great four-and five-part harmony.

10:00 AM until ???
NEW! FISHING IN LAKE Pb (periodic symbol for Lead) for kids and adults. Last time we knew there were fish in the pond. BYO fishing pole, etc.

10:00 AM to 2:00 p.m.
BACK AGAIN! TRI-FIVE CHEVY MINI-MEET: On Sunday we will hold a “Show within a Show” just for 1955, ’56 and ’57 Chevrolets (cars and trucks). The cars will park in a special roped-off area of the Daiichi lot. There will be judging and awards for Best Stock Restored and Best Modified for each year. At 2:00 p.m., they will parade through the event.

10:00 AM to 5:00 p.m.
Reserved seat tickets for Sunday Oldies Concerts on sale in Main Hallway, just inside from the revolving door. Pick up Prom Tickets (FREE but limited due to space ) here, too.

10:00 AM to 5:00 p.m.
If your old car needs a repair to get home, try the MEADOWLANDS STREET ROD ASSOCIATION’s HOT ROD REPAIR SHOP in the Hilton Lot. They also conduct free NSRA Safety Inspections.

10:00 AM to 8:00 p.m.
MAKE-A-WISH Foundation Charity Raffle. Free Children’s Activities (face painting, etc.) in Main Hall near Hotel Ballroom, inside revolving door. Last year’s 50-50 total amounted to a record $46,215, and the winner DEE SALOMONE, Make-A-Wish volunteer, donated half of her winnings back to the charity! Make- A-Wish has raised over $210,000 in the 13 years they have been doing the 50/50 at LEAD EAST.

10:00 AM to 12:00 Midnight
Outdoor D.J. JERRY “WOLFMAN” BURST spins platters, does requests, dedications, and announcements. Tune your radio to 88.1 FM for our low-power broadcast from his outdoor HQ tent in the Rear Hilton Lot near Hampton Inn entrance.

10:30 AM to 5:30 p.m.
AWARD WINNING CARS ON DISPLAY near Ace Drive-In screen

11:00 AM
Meet Special Guest LARRY ERICKSON from Detroit, famed designer of ZZ Top’s CADZILLA, former Chief Designer of the 2005 Mustang Design Team, and builder/owner of the Chevy Highboy, the car that should have won America’s Most Beautiful Roadster at San Mateo Grand National Roadster Show. He and famed rod builder ROY BRIZIO from South San Francisco, CA (tentative) will give a SEMINAR on rod styling and building. Also rod builder DERRICK PESKO from Waterford, CT. Three great guys you and meet and chat with.

11:00 AM to NOON
Free BASIC 50’s DANCING LESSONS at Outdoor Stage, presented by LOU VINCI and MICHELLE LEOTA.

11:00 AM throughout the day
A small army of clowns will provided a variety of activities for kids, with photo opportunities.

11:30 AM to 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
50’s KARAOKE and OPEN MIKE directed by PAT FERANTE in the Hotel Lobby Atrium. Pat provides the recorded music for the KARAOKE. He is authorized to supervise the KARAOKE & OPEN MIKE event. Pat will flip-flop back and forth from KARAOKE to OPEN MIKE for you to get up and perform. The best part of it is the high quality performances of a big percentage of those participating!

12:00 Noon until ?
Free SHAG DANCE LESSONS by TONY & SUZY ELDRITH of Pfafftown, NC. Elements Ballroom. This dance is a real challenge. We suggest you attend lessons all three days!

12:00 NOON to 5:00 p.m.
Rockabilly band, THE RAZORBACKS, perform on the Outdoor Stage. Another Lead East tradition – it is universally agreed that these guys are a rockin’ band that always pleases the crowd!

12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
NEW! IMPERSONATOR COMPETITION! $300 cash prize to best ELVIS, BUDDY HOLLEY, ROY ORBISON, JOHNNY CASH, etc. Impersonator. Professionals welcome. In Lobby Atrium. Winner also gets the opportunity to perform onstage in Sunday Night Oldies Concert in the Ballroom.

12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Day #2 A CAPPELLA DOO WOP SHOW with four groups in Hotel Ballroom. Fabulous five-part harmony you won’t find many other places on Earth. Seats are not reserved in afternoon. Today’s groups include DESIRE, PARTY OF 5, CLASSIC SOUNDS and ECHOES OF TIME.

1:00 p.m.
NEW! GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS “World’s Longest Stroll” RECORD ATTEMPT! Join in! Outdoors by Wolfman, near front door to Hampton Inn.

1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
NEW! Live entertainment outdoors at the Gazebo popular Jersey band FOUR MAN TRIO performs. We’re providing a new venue for spectators to sit and relax. If you’ve got an old car, bring your lawn chairs to the Gazebo.

2:00 p.m.
PARADE OF THE TRI-FIVE CHEVYS through the event.

3:00 p.m. (time approximate)
BACK AGAIN! MUFFLER RAPPING CONTEST RETURNS. Outdoors by Wolfman, near front door to Hampton Inn.

3:00 p.m. (time approximate)
BACK AGAIN! BEST DRESSED 50‘s CONTEST at Outdoor Stage. $100 Prize. Gals compete against guys.

3:30 p.m. (time approximate)
Sunday afternoon and evening we’re bringing in BRIAN BEATTIE’s restored JIM & ALLISON LEE “Great Expectations” front engined AA/FD and the ROCKY’s ROD SHOP supercharged fuel burning ’72 ”Time Bomb” Vega Funny Car to fire up their engine and “cackle” the motor. Following the Muffler Rapping Contest (we invented it in 1984 at William Paterson College LEAD EAST #2). All in the in the “echo chamber” by Wolfman. Bring earplugs.

4:00 p.m.
GOLDEN OLDIES CONCERT with eight groups in Hotel Ballroom starring CHARLIE THOMAS‘ DRIFTERS (“Under the Boardwalk”), LARRY CHANCE & THE EARLS (“Remember Then”), young sensation KID KYLE and popular Jersey band FOUR MAN TRIO. Also one song by Saturday’s DOO WOP IDOL Winner and Sunday’s IMPERSONATOR COMPETITION Winner, plus two top A Cappella Groups CLASSIC SOUNDS and ECHOES OF TIME. Reserved seat tickets available online, by calling 908-876-9100, or at the event. Drawing onstage for the MAKE-A-WISH 50-50 Winner after intermission. Last year the 50-50 reached $46,215! Winner does not have to be present. Note new 4 p.m. early Concert starting time. Concert ticket allows entry to event after 3:00 p.m. without purchase of Event General Admission Spectator Ticket.

5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
AWARDS PRESENTATIONS for TOP CUSTOMS, plus Special Awards presented to the BEST STREET ROD, BEST STOCK RESTORED, BEST MUSCLE CAR, and WORST RAT ROD at the Outdoor Stage. Plus, drawing of $100 cash prize to those who filled out survey form at the admission gate.

6:30 p.m.
BACK AGAIN! PARADE OF THE PROM QUEENS Returns. Convertibles line up by Wolfman, near front door to Hampton Inn.

7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
The 30th Annual SENIOR PROM in the Elements Ballroom, with Master of Ceremonies/D.J. LIL’ JIMMY from Peabody, MA. Crowning of Prom Queen 2016. Must be properly attired: no jeans, t-shirts, shorts, or sneakers. Gals must wear dress or skirt; guys must wear jacket or suit – tie optional. Prom Tickets are $20/couple, on sale in Main Hallway, just inside near the revolving door.

8:00 p.m. to 12:00 Midnight
OUTDOOR 50’s MOVIES at the ACE DRIVE-IN THEATRE. Tonight’s triple feature: ABBOTT & COSTELLO MEET THE MUMMY (1955) with MARIE WINDSOR; KING CREOLE (1958) with ELVIS PRESLEY, CAROLYN JONES, WALTER MATTHAU; and ATTACK OF THE 50 FOOT WOMAN (1958) ALLISON HAYES, YVETTE VICKERS and more actors you never heard of. Bring lawn chairs.

8:30 p.m.
NEW! “CRACKLE FEST” AT NIGHT with BRIAN BEATTIE’s restored JIM & ALLISON LEE “Great Expectations” front engined AA/FD and the ROCKY’s ROD SHOP supercharged fuel burning ’72 ”Time Bomb” Vega Funny Car. They will fire the engine in the “Echo Chamber” under the Hampton Inn front door porte coachere by Wolfman. Bring earplugs. See the flames, sniff the fuel, and enjoy the thunder. Not for babies or dogs.

11:00 p.m.
CURFEW FOR KIDS (into hotel rooms or leave the property)

TD Bank robbed

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 31, 2016

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ROCKAWAY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Rockaway Township Police Chief Martin McParland, Jr. announce an active investigation into a bank robbery that occurred on Wednesday, August 31 at 9:30 a.m. in Rockaway Township.

The robbery suspect at the counter of TD Bank

Law enforcement received a report of a bank robbery that occurred at the TD Bank, located at 326 Mount Hope Avenue.

The subsequent investigation has revealed that a male entered the bank branch and demanded money. The suspect can be further described as a white male, approximately in his late 20’s to early 30’s, who was wearing a dark colored baseball hat, black sunglasses, a white T-shirt, tan shorts, black sneakers, black backpack and black gloves. Upon exiting the bank, the male fled from the scene.

Numerous law enforcement agencies have responded and are currently investigating, including the Major Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the Rockaway Township Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Section, and the FBI.

Anyone with information about this incident, including the identity of this male, is asked to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office – Major Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200, the Rockaway Township Police Department at (973) 625-4000 or Crimestoppers at (973 )267-2255.

Employee at Paul Miller Land Rover transported to St. Clare’s Hospital

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 31, 2016

0

Employee at Paul Miller Land Rover transported to St. Clare’s Hospital

PARSIPPANY — An employee at the Paul Miller Land Rover car dealership, 196 Route 46 East was injured last Friday morning in an accident involving a rolling car, according to Daily Record.

At approximately 9:00 a.m. on Friday, August 26, 33-year-old Fernando Costa had put a Land Rover Evoque into a work bay at the dealership, got out of the car from the driver’s side, and left the door open, according to police reports obtained by the Daily Record.

The Land Rover soon rolled backward, said the report, pinning Costa against a wall of the dealership on Route 46.

Costa complained of pain in his entire body, suffering injuries requiring him to be transported to St. Clare’s Hospital, Denville by Parsippany-Troy Hills Emergency Medical Services.

PHS Graduate Joins National Communications Honor Society

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 31, 2016

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PHS Graduate Joins National Communications Honor Society

PARSIPPANY — Ashley Burroughs joined the Lambda Pi Eta honor society at Susquehanna University this year. A 2013 graduate of Parsippany High School, she is the daughter of Don and Arletha Burroughs.

Lambda Pi Eta is the official honor society of the National Communication Association. It recognizes, fosters and rewards outstanding scholastic achievement; stimulates interest in the field of communication; and provides an opportunity to discuss and exchange ideas about the field. Membership requires that students complete 60 semester hours at Susquehanna with a GPA of 3.0, have completed 12 hours in the area of communication study with a GPA of 3.25, and be in the upper 35 percent of their graduating class. The Susquehanna chapter was chartered in 2003.

Burroughs is a communications-digital multimedia-broadcasting major in the Class of 2017.

Susquehanna University is a selective, residential liberal arts college that provides a solid background in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as professional experiences. Students develop critical thinking, writing, teamwork and communication skills which, combined with internships and research opportunities, prepare them for a lifetime of personal and professional success. The university is recognized nationally for its commitment to off-campus study through the Global Opportunities program. Small classes enable faculty members to serve as mentors, as well as teachers.

More than 90 percent of Susquehanna students typically are employed or in graduate or professional school within six months of graduation.

Driver leaves vehicle at scene of accident; Charged with DWI

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 31, 2016

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Driver leaves vehicle at scene of accident; Charged with DWI

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Police Department’s Communication Center received a call from a witness at 10:16 p.m. on August 21 to report a motor vehicle accident on New Road.

The witness further stated that the vehicle involved drover over the curb at 130 New Road and struck a concrete embankment and stop sign.

Upon arrival of responding Officers, the witness directed them to an unoccupied 1997 Mercury van. The van had significant damage to the driver’s side, along with two deflated tires, and the driver and passenger side airbags were deployed.

Upon further investigation officers were able to locate the driver, Juan Carlos Cuamani-Tamisvih, 50, Parsippany, at a nearby apartment.

After a brief investigation it was determined that Mr. Cuamani-Tamisvih was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle.

Mr. Cuamani-Tamisvih was placed under arrest by Patrol Officer R. Taylor and R. Appel for Driving While Intoxicated.

He was then transported back to Parsippany Police Headquarters were he was processed and issued summonses for Driving While Intoxicated, Careless Driving, Failure to Report an Accident, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Unlicensed Driver, and Driving While Suspended.

He was released into the custody of an acquaintance pending his court date.

Parsippany Graduate is founder of New Wave Aquatics

Nicolas Limanov

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Aug 28, 2016

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Parsippany Graduate is founder of New Wave Aquatics

WHIPPANY – September 15 will mark the second anniversary of the opening of New Wave Aquatics located inside Zapp Fitness (Formerly known as Gold’s Gym) at 901 Route 10 East, Whippany. New Wave Aquatics was founded by Elyas Khawaja a 2012 graduate of Parsippany High School.

Chris Amorim and Devin Stone then joined New Wave Aquatics.

The three instructors have a combined teaching experience of over fifteen consecutive years and are fully certified swim instructors. They bring a wealth of knowledge and ideas from working at their previous swimming school. New Wave Aquatics is an elite swim school that offers a unique style of teaching for children and adults of all ages. Their success relies on their attention to the needs of their students and truly helping them learn. They do not succeed unless their students succeed.

New Wave Aquatics first began at the Hilton Hotel, Short Hills. After six months they shifted to Whippany because “business was going great and we grew the company to the point where we needed more pool time and space to grow our company” Khawaja explained. We began to offer a more variety of classes.

They signed a contract with Golds Gym (now Zapp Fitness) to operate the company utilizing their pool. They are a separate entity from the gym and they have a 100% customer satisfaction.

Currently, they have over 400 students in their intensive swim programs.

All instructors are certified swim instructors and certified in CPR/AED. “Safety is our priority. There are always several instructors constantly watching and guiding the students.” he said. “We teach them water survival skills and what steps to take in an emergency,” he added.

Instructors teaching students during a session

Elyas pointed out that “We are receiving great reviews”, a mother wrote on Yelp “My daughter has recently started swim classes with Elias and she absolutely loves it! Elias is patient, warm and above all an excellent swim teacher. She’s already learned so much as we finish out our first session and gear up for the summer session.”

In the review Marisa stated that her daughter was very anxious at first but Elyas’s teaching skills have turned her into a confident and happy swimmer.

They start their students at six months and teach all the way up to adults. Their unique teaching style and years of experience guarantee to get your kids swimming. Classes meet once a week for thirty minutes. They offer group lessons at 3:1 students to teacher ratio and private lessons 1:1 student to teacher.

If you are having a private event at your house with a pool contact New Wave Aquatics so they can have their professional staff there to make it a memory for you and your guests. They will take care of your pool and anybody who decides to use it.

Buddy Valastro owner of Carlos Bakery and star of Cake Boss signed up his son for swimming lessons and in just under two months his son was swimming. Mr. Valastro also taped an episode at New Wave Aquatics which will be airing within the next several months.

Parsippany Focus will update when a confirmation date is given.

“When I was growing up I always envisioned having my own company. I just did not know it would happen so soon,” Elyas Khawaja said.

“I am 22 years old and things could not be any better. It definitely did not come overnight! The hard work, countless events I missed with friends and family, and all the other sacrifices I’ve made to have a successful small business and employ people of New Jersey was all worth it,” he continued. When asked about the future of New Wave Aquatics, Elyas said, “I plan to have my own building with a gigantic pool and training areas.”

New Wave Aquatics is located at 901 Route 10, Whippany. For more information call (973) 487-7917 or click here.

Jessica Brennan earns degree from Coastal Carolina University

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 28, 2016

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Jessica Brennan earns degree from Coastal Carolina University

PARSIPPANY — Jessica Brennan, of Lake Hiawatha, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration during commencement exercises August 5, 2016, at Coastal Carolina University.

Brennan was among 360 candidates for graduation at the HTC Student Recreation and Convocation Center on campus.

Speaker Robert Young congratulated the class for being the ‘first CCU students ever to graduate from the number one university in the nation,’ referencing the national College World Series baseball title CCU won on June 30.

Young is professor of marine science and director of undergraduate research at CCU.

Coastal Carolina University is a dynamic, public comprehensive liberal arts institution located in Conway, just minutes from the resort area of Myrtle Beach, S.C. The University offers 69 undergraduate areas of study, 18 master’s degree programs, a doctoral program in marine science, and two educational specialist degrees.

More than 10,000 students from across the country and the world interact with a world-class faculty, and enjoy a nationally competitive NCAA I athletic program, an inspiring cultural calendar, and a tradition of community interaction that is fueled by more than 180 student clubs and organizations.

Coastal Carolina University was founded in 1954 as Coastal Carolina Junior College and became an independent state university in 1993.

For more information on Coastal Carolina University, click here.

If You’re a Teen, Leaders Club is the Place to Belong!

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 28, 2016

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If You’re a Teen, Leaders Club is the Place to Belong!

MORRIS COUNTY — If you’re a teen in the sixth through twelfth grades, you can become part of a unique club at the Y.

Leaders Club is for those interested in volunteer work, spending time with friends and having fun! The club meets on Monday evenings at 6:15 p.m. or 7:15 p.m. depending on age group.

As a Leader, you will work on community service projects, attend teen leadership weekends, learn valuable leadership skills, participate in social activities, and more! You might also be able to earn school credit by helping people in your community. Program runs September through June but you can join anytime.

Y membership is not required, only a $50.00 registration fee for members, $75.00 for non-members. Visit www.lakelandhillsymca.com for complete details.

First meeting will be Monday, September 19. There will be a mandatory new Parent Orientation on Monday, September 12 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Y for first time Leaders.

For more information, contact BreAnne at (973) 334-2820 or email by clicking here.

Parsippany residents to speak at 9/11 Memorial

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 28, 2016

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Parsippany residents to speak at 9/11 Memorial

MORRISTOWN – The Morris County Board of Freeholders will observe the 15th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks against the nation at the Morris County Remembers 9/11 Service on Sunday, September 11.

The ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the Morris County September 11th Memorial on West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany-Troy Hills, across from the Morris View Healthcare Center and adjacent to the Morris County Public Safety Academy. It will be held rain or shine.

New Jersey Lt. Gov. Kim Guadago will be the keynote speaker. Also speaking will be Parsippany residents Vincent and Loretta Viglione, who are the brother-in law and sister of New York City Firefighter Tommy Sabella, who lost his life along with comrades of Ladder Company 13 at the World Trade Center.

“It is vitally important to gather each year on the anniversary of 9/11 to recall every single one of the nearly 3,000 people who were tragically lost to us on that day, including 64 of our Morris County residents,’’ said Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo. “Their families and friends should know that the lives of their loved ones will never be forgotten. So, we ask all elected officials and county residents to join us on 9/11.’’

“We have an obligation to remember what happened on that tragic day, to recall the lives lost and the long-lasting impact on the families, friends, colleagues, and our nation as a result of these terrorist attacks,’’ added Deputy Freeholder Director Hank Lyon. “With that pain comes lessons learned, which we can never forget.’’

The county’s 9/11 event will include a march with a color guard up West Hanover Avenue to the Memorial by police, fire, rescue and emergency personnel from across Morris County.

The observance will include a special invocation, a lighting of candles, and reading of the names of each of the Morris County victims, plus a 21-gun salute, and keynote remarks.

Morris County’s September 11th Memorial pays tribute to all of those who died in the terrorist attacks in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C., on Sept. 11, 2001, with a special emphasis on the 64 victims from Morris County whose names are etched in plaques that are affixed to the Memorial.

The names of all of the nearly 3,000 people who died that day are engraved in ruby-colored paving stones that have been set in the ground as a walkway surrounding the Memorial.

Since seating at the Memorial is limited, the public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs to the outdoor observance. Parking will be available at the Morris County Department of Human Services building at 340 West Hanover Avenue, in Morris Township – across from the Academy. Shuttle buses will be available to transport those in need to the Memorial.

The freeholders also invite police and fire departments and rescue squads from across the county to participate by sending one apparatus per department and assembling at 4:45 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Academy, 500 West Hanover Ave., in Parsippany-Troy Hills. From there, a procession will be held to the Sept. 11th Memorial.

For more information click here.

Trump campaign plans to open headquarters in Powder Mill Plaza

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 28, 2016

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Trump campaign plans to open headquarters in Powder Mill Plaza

PARSIPPANY — Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump’s campaign will likely be opening its new New Jersey headquarters soon in Parsippany, according to State Sen. Joseph Pennacchio (R-Morris), co-chairman of Trump’s campaign in New Jersey. “It’s progressing,” Pennacchio said in an interview Wednesday. “It looks like it’s going in that direction.” The Trump campaign will likely be…

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County College of Morris to Host Regional College Fair

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 28, 2016

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County College of Morris to Host Regional College Fair

MORRIS COUNTY — Students and parents interested in exploring higher education options can do so close to home at the Morris County Regional College Fair to be held at County College of Morris (CCM).

CCM will be hosting the regional fair again this year on Sunday, September 18, from 12:00 Noon to 3:00 p.m. Representatives from more than 200 colleges and universities from across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New England, Virginia and other states will participate.

The fair is open to the public at no charge. The event takes place in the Student Community Center and the Health and Physical Education building on CCM’s Randolph Campus, 214 Center Grove Road. Visitors can park in Lots 5 – 9.

College and university representatives will be onsite to share information about programs of study, support services, campus life, housing and tuition costs. For a list of participants, click here.

Be sure to stop by the CCM Admissions table, located in both buildings. In addition to providing degree program information, the college will be waiving the $30.00 application fee.

The regional fair is sponsored by the New Jersey Association of College Admission Counseling and Morris County high schools. For additional information, call the CCM Office of Admissions at (973) 328-5100.

PACC presents “Trademarks 101 – Protecting Your Business and Your Brand with a Federal Trademark Registration”

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 28, 2016

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PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce will be presenting a networking and an information presentation on “Trademarks 101 – Protecting Your Business and Your Brand with a Federal Trademark Registration.”

This event will be held on Tuesday, September 13 at 8:00 a.m. at International House of Pancakes, 792 Route 46, Parsippany. Advance registration is suggested. $15.00 members, $20.00 non-members and guests.

You’ve worked hard to build your business and your brand name, and it’s a proud moment when you realize that all your dreams of being in business for yourself are coming true. But then you get a letter from an attorney you’ve never heard of, demanding that you immediately stop marketing and selling your product because it infringes on his client’s trademark. What do you do? What could you have done to avoid this? Is everything you worked so hard to build suddenly at risk?

Simply put, all of this could have been avoided at the outset by researching and developing a brand name that doesn’t infringe on an existing trademark, and then registering that mark for your own exclusive use. But how do you do that? Where do you start?

In this informative presentation, trademark attorney Alan S. Golub, Esq., will walk you through the basics of the federal trademark registration process. Among the many topics for discussion:

What is a trademark?
What’s the difference between patents, trademarks, and copyrights?
Do I really need to register my trademark?
Do I need an attorney to register a trademark?
How much will it cost?
What happens after I file my trademark application?
Once I’ve registered a trademark, what happens if someone else uses it without my permission?

Your brand name is the cornerstone of your business – join us to learn how a relatively simple and inexpensive trademark registration can protect everything you’ve worked so hard to build.

Don’t forget to bring plenty of business cards, since there will be an opportunity to network with local business owners.

Register online at www.parsippanychamber.org. For more information, call (973) 402-6400.

South Beverwyck Road is among Morris County roads to be repaved

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 27, 2016

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South Beverwyck Road is among Morris County roads to be repaved

PARSIPPANY — Morris County’s 2016 road resurfacing program will move ahead, but on a reduced scale over the next few months, solely using $4.1 million in county tax dollars, with the cutback in the 2016 paving schedule caused by a lack of anticipated state matching funds caused by the stalemate in Trenton regarding the depleted state Transportation Trust Fund, the freeholders have decided.

Among the projects will be South Beverwyck Road, 1.0 miles, from Reynolds Avenue to Route 80.

In addition, the freeholders have recommitted to their policy of aggressively maintaining the county’s road infrastructure in 2017, saying they will target 25 to 30 miles of county roads for paving in 2017, even if the state Trust Fund issue is not resolved.

“We want county residents to know the freeholders are committed to this effort, and that to allow our roads to fall into disrepair would not be acceptable,’’ said Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo. “The board is prepared to allocate county funding to take care of our infrastructure needs in 2017 even if the state does not resolve the Transportation Trust Fund issue. We have an obligation to our residents and businesses to keep that commitment.’’

The county’s engineering team has worked up a priority list of paving that will move ahead in the late summer and fall based on a thorough analysis of all pending resurfacing projects, and excluding an anticipated $3.9 million in state aid. The original plan for 22 miles of paving has been reduced to about 12 miles of paving in eight municipalities.

It will be financed by $3.4 million in county capital funding that had been approved for resurfacing work, plus an extra $700,000 from the amount budgeted for rock salt purchases last winter. This shift was possible due to the mild winter season the county experienced earlier this year.

Repaving work will move ahead on the following county roads, which were deemed by county staff to be in need of repair, were furthest along in the design process, and ready for construction bids.

Projects to be done this year include:

Parsippany: South Beverwyck Road, 1.0 miles, Reynolds Avenue to Route 80
Boonton: Boonton Avenue, 0.9 miles, Sheep Hill Road to the Montville border
Butler: Boonton Avenue, 0.8 miles, Route 23 to Kiel Avenue
Chatham Twp.: Green Village Road, 0.4 miles, Shunpike Road to Bridge 1400-504
Chatham Twp.: Shunpike Road, 1.3 miles, Noe Road to Green Village Road
Rockaway Twp.: Mount Hope Road, 1.2 miles, Mount Hope Ave to Reservoir Road
Roxbury: Center Street, 1.7 miles, Lakeside Boulevard to the Netcong border
Roxbury: Kenvil Avenue, 1.0 miles, Main Street to Route 46
Roxbury: Lakeside Boulevard, 0.9 miles, Landing Road to the county border
Washington Township: Schooley’s Mountain Road, 1.4 miles, Flocktown Road to Newburgh Road
Washington Township: Schooley’s Mountain Road, 1.0 miles, Springtown Road to Flocktown Road
Wharton: North Main Street, 1.6 miles, Route 46 to Dewey Avenue

Other projects that had been scheduled in 2016 will be pushed back to 2017. Letters are being sent to mayors in those towns to notify them of the delays until 2017.

“We cannot wait any longer for the state to resolve this funding issue,’’ said Freeholder John Cesaro, who is the county governing board’s liaison on road issues. “There are county roads that require repairs and upgrades. We will do as many roads possible this year and, regardless of what happens, we will work to be ready with a plan for 2017.’’

“Thankfully, we budgeted this year for another aggressive repaving season, to keep our roads in great shape, so we do have adequate county money available to get some of the needed work done now,’’ added Freeholder Tom Mastrangelo. “It’s important to the quality of life for our residents, visitors, and businesses to keep our roads in good shape.’’

The county used leftover 2015 road funds to do a June milling and resurfacing project on a 1.6 mile section of Main Street in Wharton, from Route 46 to just short of Dewey Avenue. But further work halted as the county, like all counties in the state, waited for a state resolution to the TTF issue.

To see the original list of 2016 paving projects click here.

Parsippany Town Hall Council Regular Meeting (08/16/2016)

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Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 23, 2016

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Parsippany Town Hall Council Regular Meeting (08/16/2016)

Household Hazardous Waste and Electronics Collection Days

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 23, 2016

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PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority has scheduled two upcoming free Household Hazardous Waste Disposal and Computer/T.V. Drop-Off events, to help Morris County residents properly discard unwanted hazardous household products and recycle electronic equipment that has accumulated in their homes.

The MUA has set up two dates, Saturday, September 10 in Parsippany and Saturday, October 1 in Chatham, to make it easier for residents from all 39 municipalities to get rid of unwanted items:

Saturday, September 10: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Ave., Parsippany, at the border of Morris Township.
Saturday, October 1: 9:00 a.m. to 2:0 p.m. at Chatham High School, 255 Lafayette Avenue, Chatham.

Both events will be held rain or shine.

“These events are designed to provide county residents with a free and relatively easy opportunity to properly dispose of items that can be harmful to the environment, and which should not find their way into the regular trash disposal stream,’’ said Morris County Freeholder Christine Myers, who is the county governing board’s liaison to the MUA.

“We are pleased the MUA provides free drop-off programs for Morris County resident to make getting rid of household hazardous waste and E-waste is safe, convenient and free.”

Morris County residents who have started their fall cleaning projects can drop-off, at no charge, unwanted hazardous materials and electronic devices, including computers, monitors, printers, scanners, fax machines and televisions from their homes.

The list of acceptable hazardous materials include, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, oil-based paints, stains, paint thinners and removers, solvents, automotive fluids, lead acid and rechargeable batteries, pool chemicals, and darkroom chemicals.

Also accepted are aerosol cans (not empty), propane and helium cylinders, small quantities of asbestos (wetted, double bagged and sealed with duct tape-100 pound limit), driveway sealant, roofing tar, fluorescent bulbs, PCB-ballasts, mercury thermometers and switches, household cleaning products, muriatic acid.

Latex paint is not considered hazardous, so it will not be accepted. Latex paint can be disposed of in the normal trash after drying out the paint by mixing an absorbent such as kitty litter in the can.

Explosive or highly reactive materials, such as picric acid or nitro compounds, will not be accepted.

It is important to note that these events are for residential household waste and electronics only. Businesses are not permitted to attend these disposal events.

Visit the Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority website for information and directions to each location, by clicking here.

The MUA also accepts household hazardous waste and electronics by appointment only at its Mount Olive Transfer Station. For information click here.

Call the MUA at (973) 631-5109 if you have questions on any of this information.

Prosecutor announces Investigative Staff Promotions

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 22, 2016

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Prosecutor announces Investigative Staff Promotions

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Chief of Investigations John Speirs announce twelve promotions effective Friday, August 26 to fill vacant supervisory positions within the Prosecutor’s Office. The vacancies were created by the recent retirements of Executive Captain Richard Rose, Captain Jane Recktenwald, and Captain Michael Rice.

The following personnel will be promoted and assigned as indicated below:

Lieutenant Robert M. McNally to Captain, who will command the Tactical Division.

Lieutenant Steven Murzenski to Captain, who will command the Specialized Crimes Division.

Lieutenant Angelo Rosato to Captain, who will command the Courts & Administration Division.

Sergeant Steven M. Brylinski to Lieutenant, who will supervise the Sex Crimes / Child Endangerment Unit and the Megan’s Law Unit.

Sergeant Edward M. Jones to Lieutenant, who will supervise the Special Operations Division.

Sergeant Anthony P. Mauceri to Lieutenant, who will supervise the Major Crimes Unit and Vehicular Homicide Function.

Detective Supervisor Jan-Michael Monrad to Sergeant, who will supervise the Intelligence / Homeland Security Unit.

Detective Supervisor Stephen Ortiz to Sergeant, who will supervise the Professional Standards Unit, Financial Crimes Unit, Insurance Fraud Unit, Bias Crimes Unit and Arson / Environmental Crimes Unit.

Detective Supervisor Gregory A. Rossi to Sergeant, who will supervise the Fugitive Unit.

Detective James J. Bruno to Detective Supervisor in the Special Enforcement Unit.

Detective Michael J. Gomez to Detective Supervisor in the Major Crimes Unit and Vehicular Homicide Function.

Detective Keisha Higgs to Detective Supervisor in the Juvenile / Missing Persons Unit.

Prosecutor Knapp stated, “Through their everyday performance, each of these individuals has demonstrated the qualities necessary to serve at the next level in the organization. I am confident that they will ensure that the office continues to be efficient and effective.”

Pennacchio Bill Protecting NJ Transit Riders with Service Dogs from Discrimination

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 22, 2016

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Pennacchio Bill Protecting NJ Transit Riders with Service Dogs from Discrimination

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Chris Christie has signed legislation sponsored by Senator Joseph Pennacchio (R-Morris, Essex, Passaic) to prevent New Jersey Transit from denying a person with a service dog access to any vehicle.

Sen. Joseph Pennacchio’s anti-discrimination bill prevents NJ Transit from denying a person with a service dog access to any vehicle.

“We have a responsibility to remove any obstacle that could prevent people with service dogs from accessing public transportation,” Senator Pennacchio said. “This is a commonsense update to existing law that will ensure people with service animals have the same quality access to the buses and trains utilized by thousands of NJ Transit commuters every day.”

Senator Pennacchio’s bill, S-1379, codifies existing New Jersey Transit practices to ensure they are uniform across every transportation platform in the state, particularly NJT’s Access Link service.

The bill also established the Access Link Customer Service Group, which will be tasked with acting upon customer complaints.

“No one should be denied access to public transportation because of a disability,” Senator Pennacchio added. “I am grateful to Senator Turner for leading the charge to pass our bill, and to Governor Christie for recognizing the critical need for this legislation.”

Letter to the editor: Parsippany’s Township Attorney: Are Family Member’s ABOVE the Law? Only Time Will Tell!

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 22, 2016

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Letter to the editor: Parsippany’s Township Attorney: Are Family Member’s ABOVE the Law? Only Time Will Tell!

Dear Editor:

Parsippany’s Township Attorney: Are Family Member’s ABOVE the Law? Only Time Will Tell! Some may already have the answer to this question. Others will have to wait until this matter is addressed by Jefferson Township’s Municipal Court Judge William Bowkley and Jefferson’s Municipal Court Prosecutor James LaSala.

On June 21, 2016 Denis Driscoll’s daughter, was involved in a terrible crash that resulted in the death of Richard Bianculli in Jefferson Township. Denis Driscoll is a high profile attorney and a partner in the John lngelsino law firm.

The lngelsino law firm represents Parsippany Township. Ms. Driscoll was given a ticket for being in violation of New Jersey’s Graduated License Law by having more than the allowed amount of people in her car while driving.

Also, Ms. Driscoll was given a ticket for an unsafe lane change when she crashed into Mr. Bianculli who was driving his motorcycle and caused his death.

According to published articles, Ms. Driscoll has not been charged with any criminal offenses. Is that because of the powerful influence this law firm has over the decision makers? Oddly enough, in a similar case, Mr. Driscoll had reported to the authorities that Rockaway Township Police Officer Clifton Gauthier attempted to persuade him to dismiss a ticket when Mr. Driscoll was the Municipal Prosecutor for Rockaway Township. Did Mr. Driscoll attempt to persuade the decision makers not to file criminal charges against his daughter?

It will be interesting to see how these two motor vehicle tickets Ms. Driscoll received withstand the power of the political machine the John lngelsino law firm brings and certainly will bring. Especially to a Municipal Court in the same county that Mr. Driscoll himself was a Municipal prosecutor in for several towns.

Will Judge William Bowkley and prosecutor James LaSala succumb to the pressure or will they honor and uphold the law that they took an oath to administer? Only time will tell! No court date has been set as of today.

If you have an interest in justice or just the opposite (injustice), I implore your readers to contact the Jefferson Municipal Court at (973) 208-6129 and find out when this case is going to be scheduled and witness which type of justice will prevail.

According to the Civil lawsuit (Docket# L-1773-16) filed by John J. Secura Ill in Morris County Civil Court against Mr. Denis Driscoll and his daughter, it says that Ms. Driscoll recklessly and negligently made an illegal lane change across multiple lanes on Route 15 and crashed into Mr. Bianculli causing his death.

The civil lawsuit also says that upon information and belief, Denis Driscoll knew that his daughter would be operating the vehicle in violation of the New Jersey’s Graduated License Law.

This Civil lawsuit in this case was given to Parsippany Focus so that this information could be verified.

Either way, this is a tragedy all the way around, but will the Driscoll’s be held accountable for their actions? Again, only time will tell!

Ken Osmond
Parsippany
Telephone number removed

Hennion Drive resident returns from vacation to find home burglarize

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 19, 2016

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Hennion Drive resident returns from vacation to find home burglarize

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Police Department’s Communication Center received a call reporting a burglary to a residence on Hennion Drive. Upon arrival of Patrol Officers Van Orden and Dave Cavaliere, the interior of the house was checked to make sure the unknown suspect was still not present.

After a brief investigation, it was determined that the victim’s house was burglarized between 11:00 a.m. on August 4 and 5:30 p.m. on August 10 while they were away on vacation.

The Officers also found that entry was gained through a shattered rear window. Parsippany Detective A. Morelli and the Morris County Sheriff’s Department CID responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.

This incident remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call the Parsippany Investigative Division at (973) 263-4311.

If you are going on vacation or plan to be away from home for an extended period of time, Parsippany Police Department’s House Watch Program can give you peace of mind. Patrol Officers will conduct periodic exterior checks of your home while you are away, monitoring your property for inappropriate activity or emergencies.

Enlisting the police department to keep an eye out for suspicious activity while you are away does not guarantee against loss, theft, damage or criminal mischief, but it can be a useful deterrent to anyone who may be considering accessing your home for criminal purposes. Please note that enrollment does not create a special duty upon the police department to monitor your home. Patrol Officers will conduct visual inspections of your home’s exterior as time and manpower permits.

* House checks are not conducted on homes that are occupied for any length of time during the homeowner’s absence.

* Enrollment is open only to homeowners who will be away for at least three (3) days.

*The occupant must have established residency at the location.

*Homes that are vacant or are subject to be shown by a real estate agent are NOT eligible for the program.

*The residence may NOT remain on House Watch for more than three (3) weeks.

Fill out a House Watch Request Form and click on the “Submit” button at the bottom of the page to submit it electronically. All of your information will be kept strictly confidential, and in the event of criminal activity or damage, we will have the ability to contact you. Download the form by clicking here and drop it off at police headquarters at any time or fax it to the Police Department at (973) 334-4379.

Grand Jury Returns “No Bill” in Officer-Involved Shooting

Frank L. Cahill

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Aug 19, 2016

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Grand Jury Returns “No Bill” in Officer-Involved Shooting

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announces that on Tuesday, August 16 a Morris County Grand Jury voted not to file criminal charges against Patrolman Jorge Reyes of the Butler Police Department related to an officer-involved shooting that occurred on March 31 in Butler. During this incident, Dylan Howard, 23, with a last known address in Butler, was shot multiple times by Patrolman Reyes. Howard was in possession of a single shot shotgun at the time of the shooting.

On March 31 at approximately 3:46 p.m., Patrolman Jorge Reyes of the Butler Police Department responded to the area of the Noah’s Arc School and Gleaners Thrift Shop at the Methodist Church located on Bartholdi Avenue in Butler on a report of a theft. Upon arrival, Patrolman Reyes met with the alleged victim, who indicated her purse, and other items, were missing from her car.

The victim indicated that after discovery the items missing from her car, she was approached by a male, later identified as Dylan Howard. At that time, Howard produced the purse and returned it to her. He also asked her not to call the police. Howard advised the victim that the purse had been taken to a closet at the thrift shop. At this time, Howard began walking away from the scene.

Patrolman Jorge Reyes had arrived on scene as Howard was walking in the direction of a nearby playground. Patrolman Reyes spoke to the victim, during which time Howard began to walk at a faster pace in the direction of a nearby street, Carey Avenue. Patrolman Reyes attempted to follow Howard, at which time he began to run away from the scene down Carey Avenue and towards Boonton Avenue, at which point Patrolman Reyes then lost sight of him.

Patrolman Reyes was familiar with Howard. He was aware that Howard had an active warrant for his arrest (related to a Violation of Probation for a failure to appear from the Morris County Superior Court). Howard was also known to law enforcement from previous encounters, including several past arrests. Howard also had charges pending against him related to several unrelated thefts. Howard was known to reside at times at his grandparents’ home located at 3 Belleview Terrace in Butler.

Upon entry into the thrift shop, Patrolman Reyes observed a closet with pry marks to the lock/door jam as if it had been broken into. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office – Criminal Investigation Section would later lift latent fingerprints from this location, which were determined to be a match to Dylan Howard.

Multiple law enforcement officers attempted to locate Howard. Butler Police Officers responded to 3 Belleview Terrace and spoke to Howard’s grandmother. She confirmed that Howard was at the thrift shop earlier. She also indicated that Howard made a comment to her that he just wanted to die because he could not continue the lifestyle he was living due to his drug addiction. Howard had asked his grandmother for money and she refused. The officers entered 3 Belleview Terrace, but did not locate Howard. At approximately 6:30 p.m., Butler police officers had concluded their search for Howard with negative results.

At approximately 7:10 p.m., two 911 calls came into the Butler Police Department reporting a suspicious person walking up West Belleview Avenue towards Belleview Terrace. The callers reported a suspicious person walking in the area of 14 West Belleview Avenue. The person was described as wearing a scarf over their face, walking with a limp and carrying a cane and possibly a purse. The person was identified as a male despite being dressed as an elderly female. Both callers found the clothing suspicious due to the approximately 70 degree weather that day. It was reported that the person entered 3 Belleview Terrace.

Butler Police officers responded as a result of the latter 911 call, believing that the suspicious person was possibly Howard, making an attempt to get back to 3 Belleview Terrace. Those officers were Lt. Scott Ricker, Patrolman Jorge Reyes, Patrolman Kyle Fontanazza, and Patrolman Scott Sinopoli. The four officers responded to the area in three marked police vehicles. All of the officers were in uniform.

When the officers arrived in the area, dispatch relayed that one of the 911 callers indicated that the suspicious person had just entered the 3 Belleview Terrace. Upon arrival, Patrolmen Fontanazza and Sinopoli took positions outside of the residence in the event that Howard attempted to flee the residence out of a bedroom window, as he had done in the past.

The officers were aware that Howard was a known heroin user. Howard also had prior instances in which he had eluded officers, had resisted arrest and assaulted officers.

Lt. Ricker and Patrolman Reyes went to the rear of the residence, which they knew to be the primary entrance/exit of 3 Belleview Terrace. Upon arrival to the rear door, the officers could hear a commotion and several people yelling inside the home. Patrolman Reyes knocked on the door and announced his presence. The door was opened by Howard’s grandmother. Both Patrolman Reyes and Lt. Ricker entered the home, with Reyes in front of Ricker. Upon entering the kitchen, Patrolman Reyes observed Howard run from the dining room/living area toward the bedroom down the hallway. The officers chased Howard down the hallway.

As Howard fled from the officers, he was instructed to stop. As the officers reached the end of the hallway, Howard attempted to close the bedroom door on the officers. Both officers pushed the door to prevent it from closing. The door opened and Patrolman Reyes stepped into the room, with Lt. Ricker behind him and just outside the bedroom. Patrolman Reyes observed Howard crouched down near the foot of the bed with his back turned to Reyes. Patrolman Reyes yelled to Howard to show his hands. Howard failed to comply. Patrolman Reyes shouted verbal commands again and Howard again failed to comply. At this time, Patrolman Reyes drew his weapon and again told Howard to show his hands. Howard then reached for an object near the bed area. Patrolman Reyes stated that Howard moved towards the head of the bed, turned, stood up and pointed what appeared to Reyes to be a long gun (rifle or shotgun) directly at Reyes. Howard was holding the long gun at waist level. Patrolman Reyes ordered Howard to drop the long gun and Howard did not comply. Howard then moved his hand towards the trigger area of the long gun while keeping it pointed at Reyes. It was at this time that Patrolman Reyes discharged his service weapon striking Howard. Patrolman Reyes discharged his weapon four (4) times. While discharging his weapon, Patrolman Reyes moved backwards towards Lt. Ricker, and had moved just outside of the bedroom. Patrolman Reyes stated that he stopped firing when the long gun was no longer pointed at him and Howard fell to the floor. The long gun fell to Howard’s side approximately 1-2 feet away from Howard’s body. Patrolman Reyes stated that he holstered his service weapon and approached Howard. He moved the long gun out of Howard’s reach and secured it by keeping it under his shin. Patrolman Reyes then immediately rendered medical attention to Howard and requested that a Medevac respond.

The officers put Howard onto his back on the floor to render aid. He was wearing what appeared to be a white sweat shirt or sweater, a T-shirt, white sparkly gloves, and gray sweat pants over top of jeans. Howard had multiple gunshot wounds to his chest and abdomen. He was subsequently flown to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson for treatment.

The shotgun possessed by Howard was secured by law enforcement. Examination of the shotgun showed that it was cocked and in the ready firing position. Law enforcement de-cocked the gun and opened the breach, rendering the weapon safe. At this time, it was learned that the shotgun was loaded.

During a subsequent search of 3 Belleview Terrace, investigators collected various items of evidence, to include four (4) shell casings from Patrolman Reyes’ service weapon, bullet fragments, a projectile, clothing consistent with the descriptions provided by the 911 callers, multiple syringes, and nine (9) shotgun shells from the pocket of the shirt top that was worn by Howard at the time of the incident.

Subsequent testing of the shotgun possessed by Howard was conducted by the Ballistics Unit of the New Jersey State Police. It was determined that the shotgun was a 12 gauge single barrel shotgun. The shotgun was test fired and determined to be operable and capable of being discharged.

On April 9, 2016, the Butler Police Department was contacted by a local resident reporting a possible burglary to 14 West Belleview Avenue. 14 West Belleview Avenue is located in close proximity to 3 Belleview Terrace, and is the area where the 911 callers first reported seeing the suspicious person dressed as an elderly female on March 31, 2016.

Butler Police responded to the location and entered the residence and ultimately observed various identification cards in the name of Dylan Howard within the home. A subsequent search conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and Morris County Sheriff’s Office revealed numerous items of evidential value, to include twelve (12) 12 gauge shotgun shells.

The owner of 14 West Belleview Avenue was interviewed and confirmed that the home was vacant, and had been, since 2010. The owner confirmed that various items within the home had been moved and that various unknown articles of men’s clothing were in the home. The owner would later identify the articles of clothing worn by Howard on March 31, 2016 – and used as a disguise – as those of the owner’s deceased mother.

The various shotgun shells recovered during this investigation were also examined and determined to be identical. Those shells include the one (1) shell extracted from the shotgun possessed by Howard during the shooting incident, the nine (9) shotgun shells recovered from Howard’s shirt top during the shooting incident, and the twelve (12) shotgun shells collected from 14 West Belleview Avenue.

Dylan Howard was charged with various crimes related to this incident and investigation. With regard to the incident earlier on the day of March 31, 2016 at the thrift store, Howard has been charged with Burglary, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C: 18-2, and Theft, a crime of the fourth degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C: 20-3. With regard to the shooting incident on March 31, 2016, Howard has been charged with Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4a; Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons, a crime of the second degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7b; Aggravated Assault by Pointing a Firearm at a Law Enforcement Officer, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b9, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-2. With regard to the incident at 14 West Belleview Avenue, Howard has been charged with Burglary, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2; Theft, a crime of the third degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3/2C: 20-2b2b; and Theft, a crime of the fourth degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C: 20-3. The charges and allegations against Dylan Howard are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

At the completion of the presentation to the Morris County Grand Jury, the panel voted not to indict Patrolman Jorge Reyes based upon their consideration of the facts, evidence and testimony from the investigation. The Morris County Grand Jury was instructed as to potential criminal charges against Patrolman Reyes and the legal elements to prove each crime, as well as the law of justification, particularly the use of force in defense of self and others. An officer may use deadly force in New Jersey when the officer reasonably believes it is immediately necessary to protect the officer or another person from imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm.

The investigation into this officer-involved shooting was conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office-Major Crimes Unit in compliance with the New Jersey Attorney General Directive (No. 2006-5; Supplemented July 28, 2015) on Officer Involved Shootings. Pursuant to that Directive, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office was the primary agency responsible for the investigation of events. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office was assisted by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office – Criminal Investigation Section in this investigation.