Click here for August Parsippany Live calendar.
PARSIPPANY — A new traffic signal was “turned on” yesterday on Littleton Road at the intersection of Route 80 west exit to Smith Road.
The new traffic signal will expedite the flow of traffic for those vehicles turning left onto Littleton Road from Route 80 and those vehicles traveling west on Littleton Road wishing to turn onto the Route 287 North, especially during rush hours.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany–Troy Hills Police Department issued a statement regarding “Phone Scams.”
The Police Department will not contact any citizen and advise them they have a warrant for their arrest which must be paid over the phone to avoid arrest.
Recently they were advised that someone contacted a resident of another town and told them that they were a Police Officer from Parsippany Police Department which currently had a warrant for their arrest.
They further stated to prevent an arrest and to clear the charges they need to send a certain amount of money immediately.
In these scams they advise the person to call them back once they purchase a money card, money gram, visit a Western Union, or some other type of currency transfer service. In some instances the caller forces the individuals to stay on the line while they complete the transactions.
The calls were spoofed (Caller ID information altered) to appear as they had come from the Parsippany Police Department to make it appear legitimate.
If you get a phone call of this nature please record the phone number that appears on your caller ID and contact the Police.
The Federal Communications Commission has also stepped in with information and tips for consumers and a breakdown of the rules. Tips include:
To download a guide on spoofing, click here.
For more information about caller ID spoofing please visit the FCC website by clicking here.
FLORHAM PARK — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announces that LePolian McConnell, 34, East Orange, and a former employee of Kushner Company in Florham Park, pled guilty yesterday to one count of second degree Theft by Deception in violation of N.J.S. 2C:20-4(a); one count of second degree Attempted Theft by Deception in violation of N.J.S. 2C:5-1a(1) and N.J.S. 2C:20-4(a), and one count of second degree Conspiracy in violation of N.J.S. 2C:5-2 and N.J.S. 2C:20-4(a).
In pleading guilty, the defendant admitted to fraudulently issuing a Kushner Company check in the amount of $125,000. McConnell also admitted that he conspired with another individual to cash the check at Jersey City Check Cashing in Jersey City.
Under the terms of the plea agreement the State will recommend that the defendant be ordered to pay restitution and to be sentenced to three years in New Jersey State Prison.
Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Francine S. Ehrenberg represented the State in this matter.
The Honorable William J. McGovern, III, J.S.C., presided over the plea. The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on October 9, 2015.
Prosecutor Knapp thanks Police Chief Patrick P. Montuore and the Florham Park Police Department, and the Financial Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office who assisted in the investigation and the resolution of this matter.
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany donated $1,000 to the Parsippany Food Panty, on Thursday, July 30.
Kiwanis Club President Mimi Letts and Kiwanis Club Foundation President Carol Tiesi presented the check to Parsippany-Troy Hills Acting Director Human Services Michele Picone at their weekly breakfast meeting at Empire Diner.
The Parsippany Food Pantry, located at 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha is in dire need of restocking.
They distribute food all year-long to needy residents, not just on holidays. Donations of non-perishable food items are always needed. The most needed items are canned goods such as fruit, fruit juices, evaporated milk, vegetables, meat, sardines, tuna, salmon, chicken, turkey, soups and stews. Dry goods such as beans, cereal, pasta, rice, diced potatoes, peanut butter, jelly, prepared tomato sauce, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, powered milk, condiments such as salad dressing, mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup; household items such as toilet tissue and laundry detergent. Supermarket gift cards are also readily accepted.
Donations can be brought to the Community Center. The Food Pantry is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m, except holidays.
Any resident in need of supplemental food are invited to call (973) 263-7163 or (973) 263-7351/52.
Ready-made bags of basic food staples such as canned goods, cereal and dried food, are available through donations from individuals, schools, scouts and churches.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany are all local people volunteering their time and talents to make our community a better place to live. They, like you, are busy with making a living, church, family, and many other activities. However, they have found that Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany gives not only a chance to give back to our community in a meaningful way, but we enjoy the fellowship, networking, and fun aspects as well.
Kiwanis is “Improving The World, One Child And One Community At A Time.”
For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.
Dear Editor:
Recently, the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders fired their latest shot in the ongoing war with Morris County Sheriff Ed Rochford. I praise my opponent John Cesaro for abstaining from this vote that appears to be more about playing politics than smart policy. The public needs more information about why the decision was made and what the Freeholders calculate they can accomplish with this move. I believe in the long term, the control of the jail will be returned to the office of the Sheriff and if elected, I will vote to do so the first chance I get.
When one looks at the facts, this appears to be a reactionary move that aims to solve a problem while ignoring its cause. According to statistics provided by the Sheriff’s Office, the county jail has an astronomical employee turnover rate. The Sheriff’s Office claims that they lose 39 percent of new hires within the first two years. They attribute that statistic to below market pay and lack of modern compensation strategies to retain employees like career plans, predictable pay increases, and quality benefits.
All of those suggested improvements were in Sheriff Rochford’s recently proposed labor relations plan, and all have been opposed by the current Freeholder Board. This disagreement has obviously hurt the Freeholders already acrimonious relationship with the Sheriff’s Department, and left the unions feeling unheard and disrespected.
It is beyond frustrating that Morris County is paying to train employees that jump at their first chance to get a job at another facility, where better compensation and benefits are the norm. To deal with the unnecessarily high turnover, the County Jail has turned to paying experienced officers overtime to ensure that the jail remains safe and functional.
During my time studying Human Resources management at the Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations, I learned all about the high cost of recruiting and training and the necessity of a clearly articulated retention strategy to ensure return on investment.
The Freeholder Board’s shortsighted thinking is a clear example of why people say the private sector is more efficient than the public sector. Politicians see high overtime costs and new more expensive labor contracts as unacceptable.
The seven sitting Freeholders are unlikely to be able to achieve any improvements on the current reality unless they propose a strategy almost identical to what Sheriff Rochford brought to them previously. In reality, the Freeholders are asking county employees to bear the burden of their dysfunction to mask their own poor management and administration.
By compensating employees with a market wage, providing a clear plan for career advancement, and good benefits, the jail will reduce turnover, overtime, training costs and recruitment costs. These were all things that Sheriff Rochford was attempting to accomplish when he agreed to terms on new contracts with the four unions at the jail. That same day they seized control of the jail, the Freeholders rejected every one of those contracts sending the negotiation process back to square one. To his credit, Sheriff Rochford has been running a very tight ship since his first election in 1993, and the Morris County Jail is consistently ranked in the top 1 percent of institutions nationally.
The bad guy here is not working people. County employees should make a wage that allows them to take care of their families and live and work in Morris County. Prospective employees already want to work in the Morris County jail evidenced by the lack of labor complaints over the last few years. At a certain point the jail employees that we paid to recruit and train have to think with their wallets. The employees that have left have literally chosen to work in a more dangerous environment because they need to take care of their families.
I for one would like more information. This is an ethics issue, an open government issue, and an increased risk to the taxpayers. If this is really a good thing, the people of Morris County deserve to know why. It is only fair for the public debate. Whatever happens, at bare minimum we need to ensure the safety of the employees, inmates, and the integrity of the institution.
I am proud to be the only candidate with a clear stance on this issue, and I’m proud to support the county employees in their quest for a fair and equitable contract, and Sheriff Rochford’s efforts to rightfully maintain control of the jail (as has been customary for 275 years).
Brendan L. Keating
Candidate for Morris County Freeholder
SPARTA — The state attorney general’s office says its preliminary investigation has found an off-duty state trooper fired three shots from his personal gun as three teens fled his street in a car early Sunday morning — an account that’s largely consistent with what one of the teens has told NJ Advance Media. But not entirely…
There is hope on the horizon for the sweaty masses of New Jersey. It’s distant, but it’s there. The state is just going to have to endure another week of hot weather first. As temperatures push into the upper 90s, forecasters say highs are expected to near or exceed 90 degrees until at least Tuesday –…
PARSIPPANY — “Hotel California” will be performing during Parsippany’s Summertime Concert series on Wednesday, July 29, at 7:30 p.m. All concerts are held at Veterans Memorial Park, Route 46 and Vail Road. All concerts are held at Veterans Memorial Park, Route 46 and Vail Road.
For two decades, this act has faithfully and accurately reproduced the Grammy Award winning sounds of The Eagles. Each concert presents an exciting showcase of their hits such as “Take It Easy”, Heartache Tonight” and of course “Hotel California” Click here for more information.
Please note: Pets are NOT permitted in the park during the concerts.
The next scheduled concert is on Thursday, August 13, 7:30 p.m. and will feature “Time Machine” – One of the most well known and most sought after bands in the tri-state area, Time Machine is comprised of top musicians and performers giving you unmatched showmanship and professionalism. With so many all-star performers, their show will be like listening to a human jukebox. Constantly changing styles and vocalist during the course of the concert will keep your audience entertained and awe struck all night long!!! Click here for more information.
PARSIPPANY — A resident of Sherwood Road reported his vehicle, a 2014 Lexus IS, was broken into during the evening of Thursday, July 23 or morning of Friday, July 24. Patrol Officer M. Sprung responded to the scene and spoke to the victim. The victim advised the Officer that the contents of his vehicle were scattered around the interior of his vehicle and some of his paperwork was stolen.
A resident of Ferncliff Road reported her vehicle, a 2014 Dodge Durango, was broken into during the evening of Thursday, July 23 or morning of Friday, July 24. Patrol Officer M. Sprung responded to the scene and spoke to the victim. After a short investigation it was determined the victims purse was removed from her vehicle, but recovered from the roadway. No items appeared to be missing.
Both vehicles appeared to have been left unlocked. These incidents are under investigation by the Parsippany Police Department. If you have any information regarding these incidents please contact the Parsippany Police Department at (973) 263-4300.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrol Officers responded to the area of Alexander Drive for a person striking a vehicle with an object in the roadway on Tuesday, July 19 at 1:57 a.m.
Once on scene Patrol Officer E. Giordano conducted an initial investigation which revealed the victim/driver, a 19 year old male from Parsippany and the accused, later identified as Anthony Chacon, 21, Lake Hiawatha, were involved in a road rage incident prior to the crash.
Once the crash occurred between the accused’s vehicle, a 2001 Honda CRV and the victim’s vehicle, a 2003 Hyundai Elantra, the accused exited his vehicle and began to further damage the victim’s vehicle.
The victim then exited his vehicle at which time the accused pushed him against the Hyundai Elantra, threw his vehicle keys, and removed cash from him.
The accused then left the area in his Honda CRV. Patrol Officers were advised of the accused’s vehicle description along with his identity.
A short time later the accused was located at his residence and placed under arrest by Patrol Officer J. Schicke and J. Hughes.
The accused was transported back to Police Headquarters where he was charged with Robbery and Criminal Mischief. He was transported to Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of bail pending a court appearance.
Editors Note: A complaint or a charge is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrol Officer M. Kimble activated his emergency lights and stopped in the left lane of Route 10 east after observing property that was reported missing on a previous incident at 12:50 a.m. on Sunday, July 26.
While retrieving the item from the roadway he observed a vehicle, later identified as a 2007 Infiniti G35, approaching his vehicle.
Patrol Officer M. Kimble was able to avoid being struck by the vehicle as it crashed into the left side of his patrol vehicle.
After a brief investigation Charles Wilfong, 63, Rockaway, was placed under arrest by Ptl. J. Pledger for suspicion of Driving While Intoxicated and transported to Police Headquarters.
While at Police Headquarters Mr. Wilfong was issued summons for Driving While Intoxicated, Reckless Driving, and Careless Driving. He was released to a family member pending his court appearance.
Editors Note: A complaint or a charge is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — Par-Troy East 8u All Star team won the tournament championship on Tuesday, July 28, 19-7 against Randolph.
The team finished the tournament with a perfect record of 10-0. The game ended in the bottom of the 4th inning as the teams youngest All Star, 7 year old Trevor Nussbaum crossed home plate, after a bases loaded walk, giving Par Troy a 12 run lead, ending the game due to the Little League mercy rule. (12 run lead after the 4th inning).
The team steamrolled through the tournament under the brilliant coaching of Mike Plescia and the true dedication of his assistant coaches, players, and their families throughout the five week tournament.
Tuesday was hot. Wednesday could be even hotter, say forecasters. Highs will reach 95 in Newark, and 94 in Camden and Trenton this afternoon under sunny skies, according to the National Weather Service. The high humidity will make it feel even warmer with heat indexes of 100 or more the norm, AccuWeather.com said. The NWS is…
MORRISTOWN — A 58-year-old Parsippany man was found guilty on all counts Tuesday in the sexual assault of a girl in Mount Olive and later in Roxbury over a nine-year period. A jury in Superior Court in Morristown convicted Guy Parker on six counts of first-degree aggravated sexual assault and seven counts of second-degree sexual assault.…
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Sheriff’s Office participated in a statewide Child Support Sweep coordinated by the N.J. State Judiciary and the Sheriff’s Association of New Jersey during the week of July 20 to July 24.
Officers from the Morris County Sheriff’s Office arrested seventy-six (76) offenders for non-payment of child support.
Morris County collected more than $56,000 in back child support, making the county number one out of all twenty-one New Jersey counties in funds collected.
“As the Morris County Sheriff I am very proud that our agency ranked number one in the state in collecting unpaid child support for families,” said Morris County Sheriff Edward V. Rochford.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office is the first Nationally Accredited Sheriff’s Office in New Jersey and provides shared law enforcement services for all thirty-nine municipalities in Morris County.
PARSIPPANY — The deadline for filing a nominating position for the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education was yesterday, and four residents filed with the Morris County Clerk to fill three seats that will become available December 31, 2015. The seats are for a term of three years.
Frank Neglia, Judy Mayer and Michael Pietowicz terms expire on December 31, 2015. Mayer and Pietowicz was appointed unanimously in February 2015 to fill the seats vacated by James Carifi and the late Dr. Frank Calabria
The school board election will be held during the General Election on November 3.
Susy Golderer, Louis Maccarella, Judy Mayer and Frank Neglia, Jr. are competing for the three expiring seats.
Parsippany Focus will be sending a questionnaire to all candidates in the upcoming weeks.
Another stretch of hot weather is set to ratchet up Tuesday in New Jersey. Temperatures are expected to be 90 degrees or higher across much of the state for at least the next three days. The high humidity will make it feel closer to 100. The National Weather Service is calling for highs of 92 in…
PARSIPPANY — Par-Troy 8u All Star baseball team is playing in the championship game on Tuesday, July 28 at 5:45 p.m. against Randolph at Taylor Field, Little League East Baseball Complex behind Northvale School.
The Par Troy East All Stars are 9-0. The team consists of all 7 & 8 years old and have won every game they have played (9-0).
PARSIPPANY — As first reported in Parsippany Focus, on July 9, 2014, Zinburger is coming to Parsippany. (Click here to read complete article). Just recently job postings been appearing on websites for help wanted.
Zinburger announced in 2014 they will be opening in the former Chevy’s Fresh Mex on the corner of Littleton Road (Route 202) and Route 10, Parsippany. The building housed the former Chevy’s Tex Mex Restaurant, until it was on fire on May 11, 2011 when a motorist reported he saw flames shooting through the restaurant’s roof at about 8:45 a.m. The general alarm fire caused total damage to the interior of the building. The building has been vacant since.
In October 2014, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Adjustment approved a variance to construct signage accessory to a restaurant contrary to current zoning.
In January, Parsippany-Troy Hills Council approved a person-to-person, and place-to-place transfer of retail consumption liquor license to Zin Morris Plains, LLC.
Construction on the building has been going on for months, and it appears to be coming to completion. The sign on the front of the building facing Route 10 was also erected on Tuesday, July 28.
Some of the positions they are looking to fill are Front Desk Host/Hostess, Dishwasher, Prep Cook, Line Cook and Bartenders.
For more information on open positions, click here.
Zinburger (East) is operated by the Briad Group, 78 Okner Parkway, Livingston. Briad Group also operates other franchises such as Cups Frozen Yogurt, Wendy’s and T.G.I. Friday’s. The Briad Group is also a licensed franchisee for Marriott and Hilton branded hotels.
Other Zinburger locations in New Jersey are in Clifton; Cherry Hill and Garden State Plaza, Paramus.
Click here to view their website.