PARSIPPANY — Ali Quraishi earned a Doctor of Pharmacy from Mercer University’s College of Pharmacy during the University’s spring commencements.
Ali is a graduate of Parsippany High School and currently is employed as a Pharmacy Graduate Intern at Walgreens.
Mercer conferred bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees to more than 1,800 students representing all 12 schools and colleges at five ceremonies during May in Macon, Atlanta and Savannah.
About Mercer University
Founded in 1833, Mercer University is a dynamic and comprehensive center of undergraduate, graduate and professional education. The University enrolls more than 8,500 students in 12 schools and colleges — liberal arts, law, pharmacy, medicine, business, engineering, education, theology, music, nursing, health professions, and Penfield College of Mercer University — on campuses in Macon, Atlanta and Savannah — and three regional academic centers in the Atlanta metro area. The Mercer Health Sciences Center includes the University’s medical, nursing, health professions and pharmacy schools. Mercer is affiliated with four teaching hospitals — Memorial University Medical Center in Savannah; Medical Center, Navicent Health, in Macon; and The Medical Center and St. Francis Hospital in Columbus. The University also has educational partnerships with Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex in Warner Robins and Piedmont Healthcare in Atlanta. It operates an academic press and a performing arts center in Macon and an engineering research center in Warner Robins. Mercer is the only private university in Georgia to field an NCAA Division I athletic program. www.mercer.edu
More rain is on the way to New Jersey that will most likely make this weekend a washout. This morning, there may be spots of drizzle but the clouds are expected to break up by this afternoon making for a pleasant day with sunny skies and highs around 80 degrees. RELATED: Drought fears washed away in…
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announces that Defendant Luis E. Torres, 39, of Jersey City, has been sentenced to twenty (20) years in prison in connection with the charges stemming from a drunk driving motor vehicle crash that occurred on August 24, 2013 in Jefferson Township, which left three occupants of his vehicle dead.
The sentencing in this matter was heard before the Honorable James DeMarzo, J.S.C. Under the sentence imposed by the Court, the defendant must serve 85 percent of the twenty year sentence before becoming eligible for parole, pursuant to the No Early Release Act. The Court also imposed a 10 year loss of driving privileges to commence after the defendant has served his prison sentence.
On March 23, the Defendant pled guilty to one count of Aggravated Manslaughter, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-4a(1), a crime of the first degree, two counts of Vehicular Homicide, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5a, crimes of the second degree, four counts of Assault by Auto, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1c(1), crimes of the fourth degree, one count of Assault by Auto, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1c(2), a crime of the third degree and Driving While Intoxicated.
This prosecution stemmed from the arrest of Torres for his role in the August 24, 2013 incident where he was operating a 2002 Ford Explorer when it flipped over. He was travelling with his family on Route 15 South in Jefferson Township, New Jersey at the time of the accident. There were nine occupants inside the vehicle including the defendant. Three of the occupants were children under the age of 18. Several passengers were ejected from the vehicle resulting in the deaths of three passengers. The defendant and five remaining passengers suffered injuries. The decedents are Lucila Colon, 62; Julissa Colon, 36; and Tevia Booth, 11.
Assistant Prosecutor Brian DiGiacomo represented the State during the prosecution of this matter.
The Prosecutor would like to thank the Jefferson Township Police Department, the New Jersey State Police Fatal Accident Investigation Unit, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Criminal Investigations Section.
MORRIS COUNTY — NJDOT’s contractor, Tilcon of New York is scheduled to close two southbound lanes to restripe the roadway to the final configuration on the I-287 southbound bridge over Eden Lane, beginning at 9:00 p.m. tonight, Friday, June 26, until Saturday, June 27 at 8:00 a.m.
At 2:00 a.m., the lane closure will shift from the two left lanes to the two right lanes, to complete the final lane configuration.
The new traffic pattern will shift all five lanes back to the left into its final configuration on the southbound side. Final paving on the northbound side began this week and is scheduled to start on the southbound side next week.
The $27.4 million project – which began initial construction activity in September 2012 – improved the pavement condition on a seven-mile segment of I-287 in both directions from just south of the South Street underpass in Morristown (Milepost 35.4) to the Littleton Road overpass in Parsippany (Milepost 42.2).
The project also included replacement of the bridge decks over Eden Lane in Hanover (Milepost 38.8) and upgraded guide rails, drainage clearing and various other incidental improvements to the highway.
Portable variable message signs are being utilized to provide advance notification to the motoring public of all traffic pattern changes associated with the work. The precise timing of the work is subject to change due to weather or other factors. Motorists are encouraged to check www.511nj.org for real-time travel information.
PARSIPPANY — The Class of 2015 Parsippany High School graduated 230 seniors at the County College of Morris, on Thursday, June 25.
The Parsippany High School Class of 2015 are Eric Kofi Abanfo, Ahmed Hussein Abdelkader, Erick Abinader, Marline Lucie Agenor, Sohaib Ahmed, Christopher N. Aldana-Garcia, David Joseph Aloisia, Amanda Victoria Anguo, Amira M. Ashi, Jennifer Atherton, Stephanie Atherton, Andrea Nicole Atienza, Taylor Nicole Auletta, Kwame Francis Badasu, Jessica Kaur Bajwa, Alexander John Bamert, Gulseren Nazli Bayrak, Caitlyn Elizabeth Bednarz, Parth Bhagat, Brittany Ann Birth, Omar Bokhari, James William Brennan, John Camillo Bucciarelli, Tulsi S. Bulsara, Maire O’Hagan Burder, Michelle Rachel Burdick, Volodymyr Busko and Kayleigh Elizabeth Byrne.
Also Lauren Emily Calabrese, Daniel Scott Campbell, Thomas James Campbell, Alexandra B. Cancino, Brian Richard Carter, Alexis Marie Cavaluzzo, Hayden Saverio Cerrato, Amanda Jade Chan, Anna Elizabeth Chandra, Jennifer Mi Chang, Jessica Rose Chapman, Adil Chaudhri, Sarah Chen, Parth Hitesh Chokshi, Varun Chopra, Phyllis Catherine Chou, Jenna Chung, Travis Cicalese, Giancarlo Michael Colasuonno, Joshua Ashe Crawford, Jonathan Vincent Croat, Caroline Anne Curiel, Brianna Sage D’Alessio, Gabriella Rose Davino, Emily Kerstin Davis, Omari Najee Dawud, Katherine Mary DeMarco, Komal Desai, Kelly Ann Devlin, Matthew Alexander DiJesus, Jonathan James DiPippa, Gina Donabauer, Lauren Eileen Durborow, Aysegul Rabia Dursun, Emily Rose Fales, Dominic Carmello Fedele, Aarin Mathew Feliz, Sarah Elizabeth Ferguson, DeAndre’ I.Fils-Aime, Joshua Joaquim Fortes, Malik D. Francis and Nicolas Benjamin Freeman.
Also Nicolas Galvis, Heenal Gandhi, Samir Gandhi, Joseph Gatto, Emmanuel L. Gaya, Maria Isabella Glodzik, Skylar Marie Gohn, James Michael Graczyk, Nikolajs Raymond Grinvalds, Natalie Patrice Hall, Kentaro Uzuka Hansen, Kasey Alexis Hart, Najma Hassan, Peter Edward Hebberd, Jacob Ryan Helmlinger, Erin Elizabeth Hoffman, Christian Xavier Hulse-Carr, Jordan Steven Imp, Mohammad Ashraful Jaman, Marla Moushimi Jamna, Ashley Nicole Jankovic, Danielle Jannarone, Jaydin Owen Jennings, Nikhil Joseph Jiju, Brandon Noah Jones, So Young Jung, Julianna Elizabeth Kadian, Nikhil M. Kanoor, Navjot Kaur, Aleena Ahsan Kazmi, Shreya Singh Khajuria, Joseph Philip Kloss, Nikola Kociski, Zachary James Kovacs, Lukas Kvietkauskas, Viren Babu Lad, Katie Elizabeth-Lau, Linh Thi Thuy Le, Joon Lee, Taylor Rene Lewis, William Edward Leys, John Patrick Lips, Katherine Elise Lips, John Carlos Loaiza, Jennifer Claude Louis, Joshua John Lustig, Kinza Abdul Malik, Saumya Malkani, Niharika Mamillapalli, Tameem Wahid Maqsudi, Austin Michael Marchak, Andrew Scott Massefski, Brett Anthony McLean, Michael David Michalik, Kaila Rose Migliazza, Melissa Seline Mohammed, Masood Ahmed Mohayya, Amber Jade Moore and Jessica Kathleen Murray.
In addition Shyam Mehul Naik, Shreevidya Nallan, Samantha Robin Natoli, Phoebe Amber Nelson, Saarah Emine Okuyan, Kristina Marie Ollo, Jane H. Ooi, Ryan Thomas Orr, Melissa Marie Palacios, Vijaya Pandey, Alexyss Linn Panfile, Drashti Parekh, Rishi I. Parmar, Jaltej Dikesh Patel, Jayati Patel, Keshal Nilesh Patel, Kishan J. Patel, Sahil Jayesh Patel, Shalin R. Patel, Shivan Ratilal Patel, Shyam Ashvin Patel, Tej Mahesh Patel, Vijal D. Patel, David Michael Patracuolla, Zachary Anthony Pechman, Lilian Peng, Ganesh Stephen Persaud, Kaitlynn Pinero, Martin Louis A. Poblete, Nicole Anna Polak, Kefaya Amin Rabah, Mamoon Amin Rabah, Othman Amin Rabah, Gabriela Zofia Rachmaciej, Sasha Indira Ramnarine, Kevin Pravin Reshamwala, Brandon Michael Risola, D’Angelo Rivera, Brian Daniel Rodrigues, Kayla Rae Rodriguez, Matthew Eduardo Rodriguez, Jonathan Andrw Rose, Victoria Leigh Rossi, Maya Eden Rudolph and Matthew Joseph Ruggiero.
Also graduating are Valery Salinas, Rick Austin Santana, Rania Raied Sawalhi, Jenna Anne Scalzo, Brittany Ann Scannelli, Kaitlyn Harley Scarmazzo, Nicole Theresa Scarmazzo, Gloria A. Seales, Seema Nayan Shah, Ashley Marie Shandra, Veronica Marie Shaw, Henry Shen, Evan Jacob Shoshan, Maricarl V. Sibal, Asra Nasir Siddiqi, Andrew Robert Smith, Jennifer Grace Smith, Nicolette Marie Villopoto, William Cameron Snell, Ivana Srbljanovic, Elizabeth Adele Stumpf, Anthony Philip Surach, Christopher H. Tang, Kyle Ting, Emily Tom, Emily L. Tsai, Elizabeth Tu, Ronald Johnny Tudorache, Malcolm Udoh, John C. Unyuruten,Taner Adem Uygun, Timur Yusuf Uygun, Heather Lynn VanSyckel, Misbal Ann Varghese, Joanne Judith Veloz, Nicholas Adam Verillo, Marvin Duane Vivanco, Zahra Wallizadeh, Emily Weng, Joshua Wong, Samuel Wu, Christopher Yang, Pen-Hua Yang, Abraham Yaqoobi, Sarha Yaqoobi, Senem Yavuz, Antonio Remegio Ybanez, Winston Yeh, Jinchin Catherine Yuan, Cristopher Zapata, YuZhen Zhang and Joseph William Zolla.
The Diplomas
Zachery Kovacs receiving his Diploma by Board Member Joe Cistaro
Board Member Andy Choffo congratulating Kaila Migliazza when she graduated Parsippany High School
Phoebe Nelson walking to receive her diploma
Lizzy Lueng receiving her diploma from Board Member Michael Pietrowicz
Andrew Massefski and Aarin Feliz taking a selfie
Lizzy Lueng and Phoebe Nelson
Lustig Family with Graduate Josh Lustig
Brennan Family with Graduate James Brennan
Massefski Family and Friends
The Cavaluzzo Family
The Burdick Family
Skylar Gohn and PHS Principal Denis Mulroony
Maria Gloduk and Andrew Massefski
Phoebe Nelson and Kaila Migliazza
TJ Campbell and Zach Pechman
Lizzy Lueng and other graduates arrived by bus
Parents Karen Snell and Roz Waldorf
PHS Administrator Norman Francis with teachers Dana Maccione, Nicole Collelo, Briane DeGironimo and Carolina Cabezas
Othman Amin and Mamoon Rabah
Nick Verillo, Chris Zapata and Senem Yavuz
Zach Pechman
Skylar Gohn and Jennifer Smith
John Bucciarelli, James Brennan, Kwame Badasu, TJ Campbell, Andrew Massefski, Aarin Feliz and Dan Campbell
Graduates Maya Rudolph, Brittany Scannelli, Rania Sawahli, Gabby Rachmaciej, Katie Lips and Victoria Rossi
Maya Rudolph, Valery Salinas and Gabby Rachmaciej
Hayden Cerrato and Malik Francis
Senem Yavuz and Nicolette Villopoto
Aarin Feliz and Andrew Massefski
Ivana Srbljanovic, Rania Sawallo and Lizzie Stumpf
Hemanshu Uppalapti, Sujay Busarajan, Sebastian Abreu
Graduates Veronica Shaw, Amanda Angulo, Ashley Shandra and Carla Sibal
Principal Denis Mulroony entering the stage
Students entering the gym
Students entering the gym
Students entering the gym
Student Council Class President Aarin Feliz
Salutatorian Emily Weng
Superintendent of Schools Scott Rixford
Principal Denis Mulroony
Enzo Gaya and Phoebe Nelson sang a song during the graduation
Aarin Feliz passing the gavel to Brittany Avent
Principal Denis Mulroony honoring Retiring Teacher James Groome
Malik Francis had fans
Christopher Aldana on his way to get his diploma
James Brennan recieving his diploma from Board President Fran Orthwein
Brian Carter receiving his diploma from Board President Fran Orthwein
Principal Denis Mulroony honoring Administrator Lynn Burek
Hayden Cerrato being congragulated by Board Vice President Frank Neglia
Joe Cistaro handing Lauren Durborow her diploma
Danielle Jannarone receiving her diploma
Melissa Hebberd accepting the diploma on behalf of Peter Hebberd
Austin Marchak receiving his diploma
Board Members Allison Coagan and Andy Choffo
Mishal Varghese, Emily Tom, Nicolette Villopoto, Billy Snell, Joanne Veloz and Zahra Wallizadeh
Senior Class President Andrew Massefski, addressed the graduating class. Andrew said “I love Par High. It’s become my home, and it always will be. Like many of my fellow graduates, I grew up in Parsippany, and I can’t thank everyone enough for all they have done for us. I wouldn’t be the same person I am today if I didn’t live in this town. At Par High, we believe that we can be successful. We already have been with the Academic Decathlon Team qualifying for the National Championship, the wrestling team ending ranked 19th in the state, and girls’ softball team winning the state sectionals. Undoubtedly, the Class of 2015 has made a name for itself, but this is just the beginning. We will continue to push ourselves, to be the best we can be, with the lessons that Parsippany has taught us.”
Andrew continued “One of these lessons is to always be prompt and on time. After all, it was important to get a good spot in the senior lot. Another lesson we learned is to always come prepared with a plan. How else could we sneak out a text in class? We also learned to share and divide responsibilities amongst one another to get that worksheet done as fast as possible so we could hand it to the substitutes. We also learned that the best things in life take time, just like the paninis in lunch–because Wow! Those are some good sandwiches.”
Student Council President Andrew Massefski
“And despite our focus on these lessons, our teachers managed to teach us a few more, too. These lessons aren’t always just English or Algebra, though. They deal with real life. I learned perseverance when I didn’t get the grade I wanted on a test, but I came back for extra help and got an even better grade on the next one. I learned self-control when someone said something I didn’t like in a debate, but I brushed it off and forgot about it. I learned respect when I knew my teacher was more knowledgeable than I, so instead of complaining that I didn’t understand, I listened and learned” said Massefski.
Andrew continued “The thing is, though, that our experiences at Par High couldn’t be possible without great leadership, and that starts at the top. The principals here are truly one of a kind who don’t just do what’s best for business but what is best for the kids. Not everywhere do you find people at the top who know your name and truly care about how you’re doing. This is something special that we have at PHS. Our students are successful and will be in the future because of the great example Dr. Mulroony, Mrs. Burek, Mr. Rizk, Dr. Francis, and Dr. Perez have shown. They’re not alone on this pursuit, though.”
“We have a great teaching staff who work tirelessly to make sure that we learn the lessons they provide for us. Every teacher cares, and their jobs aren’t just jobs to them. Instead it’s something more, something they truly care about and take pride in because they know the cause is worthy–the cause of educating the students of Parsippany, knowing that these kids will one day be adults in the same positions they are in right now. I am grateful to every single teacher and staff member at PHS,” said Andrew.
He ended his speech with “The true difference about Par High is the people. We may not be graduating on our own ground today, but we have brought the spirit of Par High with us. As we move on to be successful in achieving our next set of goals, know that we will bring what we learned at Par High with us, just as we have brought Par High here with us at CCM today. I wish everyone the best of luck, and God bless you all.”
PARSIPPANY — Panera Bread, Troy Hills Shopping Center, is almost ready to open for business. The scheduled date was Friday, June 19 but according to their corporate office, they experienced unforseen delays.
The Parsippany Panera Bread will offer outdoor seating as well as a drive thru.
It was one year ago on June 18, 2014 that Panera Bread received preliminary site plan from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Parsippany Focus learned from a reliable source, Panera Bread will be open to the public on Tuesday, June 30. On Monday, June 29, by invitation friends and family are invited to a pre-grand opening.
The Panera Bread legacy began in 1981 as Au Bon Pain Co., Inc. Founded by Louis Kane and Ron Shaich, the company prospered along the east coast of the United States and internationally throughout the 1980s and 1990s and became the dominant operator within the bakery-cafe category.
In 1993, Au Bon Pain Co., Inc. purchased Saint Louis Bread Company®, a chain of 20 bakery-cafes located in the St. Louis area.
The company then managed a comprehensive re-staging of Saint Louis Bread Co. Between 1993 and 1997 average unit volumes increased by 75%. Ultimately the concept’s name was changed to Panera Bread.
By 1997, it was clear that Panera Bread had the potential to become one of the leading brands in the nation. In order for Panera Bread to reach its potential, it would require all of the company’s financial and management resources.
In May 1999, all of Au Bon Pain Co., Inc.’s business units were sold, with the exception of Panera Bread, and the company was renamed Panera Bread. Since those transactions were completed, the company’s stock has grown thirteen-fold and over $1 billion in shareholder value has been created. Panera Bread was recognized as one of Business Week’s “100 Hot Growth Companies.” As reported by The Wall Street Journal’s Shareholder Scorecard in 2006, Panera Bread was named as the top performer in the restaurant category for one-, five- and ten-year returns to shareholders.
In 2007, Panera Bread purchased a majority stake in Paradise Bakery & Café®, a Phoenix-based concept with over 70 locations in 10 states (predominantly in the west and southwest). The Company purchased the balance of Paradise in June 2009.
In May 2010, Ron Shaich transitioned to the role of Executive Chairman of the Board and Bill Moreton, who had previously served as the company’s Executive Vice President and Co-Chief Operating Officer, was named Chief Executive Officer and President and to the Board of Directors. In March 2012, to signify their partnership and shared commitment to Panera, the company announced that Ron Shaich and Bill Moreton would share the title of CEO. Shaich served as Chairman of the Board and co-CEO and Moreton as President and co-CEO until July 2013. In August 2013, Moreton was named Executive Vice Chairman to help oversee Panera’s business operations; he serves as a member of the Board of Directors. Shaich continues to serve as Chairman of the Board and CEO.
As of April 30, 2014, there are 1,800 bakery-cafes in 45 states and in Ontario Canada operating under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.® and Paradise Bakery & Café® names, delivering fresh, authentic artisan bread served in a warm environment by engaging associates.
Currently, the closest location to Parsippany is at 3056 Route 10 West, The Shoppes at Union Hill, Denville and 804 Bloomfield Avenue, West Caldwell.
There is also another Panera Bread under construction on Route 10 in East Hanover.
Robert Briant and Fred Finn presenting the NJ American Legion Legion Baseball Scholarship plaque., to PHS Graduate Andrew Smith
PARSIPPANY — American Legion Parsippanong Post 249 held an Installation Dinner for the 2015-2016 officers.
The new officers included Bruce Michels, Commander; Bob Barton, Jr. Vice Commander; Gary Erdman, Jr. Vice Commander; Mike Poplawski, Finance Officer and Judge Advocate; Andrew Cullen, Service Officer and Historian; Joseph Minsavage, Adjutant; Charles Doherty, Sergeant At Arms; James Allen, Chaplain and John Deluccia, House and Bar Chairman.
Also honored was James Allen with a five-year pin.
Joseph Minsavage was honored with a 50-year Plaque. Joseph married to Elizabeth (Jackie) for 56 years, father of four children and 11 grandchildren. He has been a Lake Hiawata resident for 39 years and then moving to Parsippany for another 17 years.
Andrew Smith, a graduate of Parsippany High School Class of 2015 was honored with the 2014 American Legion Baseball “Ernest Zardetto Memorial Scholarship Winner” Parsippanong Post 249, signed by John D. Baker, Department Adjunct and Michael G. Wilson, Department Commander.
Smith, a catcher for the Parsippany Tomahawks, 19U team, has been playing on the team for the past four years. The team is sponsored by the American Legion
Andrew graduated Parsippany High School on Thursday, June 25 and will be attending Montclair State University in the fall.
Michael McCorry, American Legion Morris County Commander.
The officers during installation
Joseph Minsavage, Post Adjutant, receiving his plaque marking 50 years as a member of Post 249 from outgoing Post 249 Commander Robert Briant.
Robert Briant and Fred Finn presenting the NJ American Legion Legion Baseball Scholarship plaque., to PHS Graduate Andrew Smith
Andrew Smith holding his plaque as his proud father, Ken Smith looks on.
Michael McCorry, Robert Briant, Bruce Michels (incoming Post 249 Commander) and Joseph Minsavage.
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Office of Emergency Management Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (R.A.C.E.S.) volunteers will be participating in the National Emergency Communications Field Day Exercise this weekend, Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28.
All across North America Ham Radio operators take to the outdoors to set up emergency communication radio stations and operate them continuously for a 24 hour period, with the goal of successfully communicating with as many other stations participating in the event as possible. Last year, Parsippany placed fith nationally and second in the New Jersey.
Parsippany RACES will set up their emergency communications station at the Veterans Field Gazebo on Route 46, and operate their station from 2:00 p.m. Saturday to 2:00 p.m. Sunday. Tens of thousands of Ham Radio operators throughout the country participate in this annual event, in order to hone their skills in the event of an emergency situation.
Visitors are welcome!
This is a competition, the team gets extra credit for visitors. So stop by and support our volunteers. It’s always good to meet them before you need them.
For questions and inquiries, contact Eric Hubner at (973) 390-0192 Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Acting Chief/Officer in Command Martin McParland, Jr. of the Rockaway Township Police Department confirmed two Human Trafficking related arrests, on Friday, June 26.
Debbie Kooken, 42, Boonton, was charged with two counts of Human Trafficking, in violation of N.J.S 2C:13-8(a)3, crimes of the first degree and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:24-4(a)1, crimes of the third degree. The defendant was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility.
Aldopus Mims, 38, Morris Plains, was also arrested and charged with two counts of Human Trafficking, in violation of N.J.S 2C:13-8(a)3, crimes of the first degree; one count of Sexual Assault, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:14-2(c)4, a crime of the second degree, and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, in violation of N.J.S. 2C:24-4(a)1, crimes of the third degree. The defendant was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility.
The alleged victims in this matter are two females, aged 15 and 17, who reported that they were led to engage in prostitution by the two defendants between the dates of June 12 and June 16. The 17 year-old victim alleged that Ms. Kooken would make arrangements for the victims to meet with several male clients at area hotels. Mr. Mims would then allegedly collect the money received after the sexual acts were completed. In addition, the 15 year-old victim disclosed that Mr. Mims engaged in sexual acts with her.
Bail was set for Ms. Kooken by the Honorable James M. DeMarzo at $300,000 cash only, with conditions of no contact with any child under the age of 18. Bail also was set for Mr. Mims by Judge DeMarzo at $400,000 cash only, with conditions of no contact with any child under the age of 18 and a waiver of extradition. Judge DeMarzo also issued a Nicole’s Law Restraining Order against each defendant.
Prosecutor Knapp would like to thank the Rockaway Borough Police Department, specifically, Officer Scott Haigh, the Rockaway Township Police Department, specifically, Detective Thomas Takacs; the Town of Boonton Police Department, the Hackettstown Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office – Criminal Investigation Section, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Detective Marshall Wang of the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200 or Det. Thomas Takacs of the Rockaway Township Police Department at (973) 625-4000.
Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Parsippany High School Project Graduation Class of 2014
PARSIPPANY — The Class of 2015 would like to thank the following merchants and families for supporting Project Graduation.
The primary aims of Project Graduation activities are to increase awareness of the dangers of drinking, drugging and driving and to reduce the number of youth involved in alcohol and other drug-related highway crashes. Across the country, Project Graduation and the chemical-free celebrations it inspired are the new tradition for graduating seniors.
Parsippany Focus will be publishing photos from both events, Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School.
A’Viance
Ward Painting Contractor
Acorn Home Improvements
Advanced Auto Parts
Advocare LLC
Ad-Wear Screenprinting
Ah’Pizz
AJ O’Connor Associates, Inc.
AJACO Towing
Alan Jay Rich, LLC
Alfred Dunner
Anthony & Sons Bakery
Anthony Francos
Any Excuse for a Party
Applebees
Aristocrat Limousine & Bus Co.
Around the Clock Sweeping
Arthur’s of Morris Plains
Ashia
Atelier Country Salon and Spa
B&G Foods
Baldwin Bakery and Bagels
Baldwin News & Food Store
Baldwin Pizzeria & Restaurant
Bedding Shoppe
Blink Fitness
Buffalo Wild Wings
Bumples, LLC
Caggiano Orthodontics LLC
Catherine Artke Cleaning Services
Central Middle School PTA
Century 21
Cerbo Lumber & Hardware
Christine Karpack Agent
Colonial Concrete Co.
Custom Decorators Workroom, LLC.
Cutting Edge Landscaping, LLC.
D & B Chinese Restaurant
Dick & Sara Wilde
DJ Drewsie
Dr. De La Rosa
Dunkin Donuts – Lake Hiawatha
Eccola Italian Bistro
Empire Diner
Firestone
First Managed Care Option
Foodtown
Fuddruckers
Gourmet Café
Hart Personnel, Inc.
Hills of Troy Neighbourhood Assoc.
Hoover’s Tavern
Houlihan’s
IBEW Local Union 102
IHOP
Imhoff Company
J.P. New Construction
James Jewelers, Inc.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
Joe Canal’s Discount Liquor Outlet
Joy Nails
KStrength Sports Training
Kabab Paradise
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany
Knollwood School PTA
Kohr’s Frozen Yogurt
LA Fitness
Lakeland Hills Family YMCA
Life Size Entertainment
Longhorn Steakhouse
M.A. Jewelers
M&E Soap Company
Mara’s Café and Bakery
Mario’s Express Service
Mary Lou Hale’s School of Dance
Massage Envy Spa
Matthew Dobish
Moe’s Southwest Grill
Morris Hills Veterinary Clinic
Mount Holleran Towne Tavern
Mountain Lakes Auto Spa
Mountain Lakes Bagels Deli & Café
Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Poccia, Jr and daughter
Nail Passion
Ned Stevens Gutter Cleaning
NJ Advanced Pain Management
Northvail School PTA
Outback Steakhouse of Parsippany
Papa Johns Pizza
Par-Troy Little League East
Par-Troy West Little League
Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education
Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge No 2078
Parsippany Focus
Parsippany Foot and Ankle LLC
Parsippany High School PTA
Parsippany Municipal Alliance Committee
Parsippany Public Employees Local 1
Parsippany’s Best
Parties Are Us Rentals
Partridge Run Apartments
Paul Miller Audi
Pep Boys
Photo Zone
PNY Technologies, Inc.
Priola Funeral Service
Przyhocki Services Inc.
PTF Sports
Public Works Management LLC
Pure Restaurant and Lounge
K. Hughes
Red Stone Tavern
Restaurant Depot
Retro Fitness
Robert Iracane, CPA
Ro-Lo Systems Inc
Route 46 Park Plaza Association
S Cerbo & Sons, Inc.
Sancon Services Inc.
Sogo
Sound Waves
St. Peter the Apostle Church
Staples
Sunrise ShopRite – STARS Program
Sunrise ShopRite of Parsippany, LLC
Super Scoops
Sushi-Kuu Restaurant, Lake Hiawatha
Teresa Canderozzi
TGI Fridays
The American BBQ Company
The Arena’s at Woodbridge
The Burdick Family
The DaCosta Family
The Durburow Family
The McGinley Family
The Michael Konner Corp.
The Neglia Family
Thermo Express Printing
Thomas and Theresa Pallis
Thom-Mist, Inc.
Tocad/Sunpack
Troy-Hills School PTA
Venice Food Corporation
VFW Post 10184
Vinhas Jewelers
Vitale’s Trattoria
Wan Fu Yuan, Inc.
Wendy’s of Parsippany
William & Kathryn Masters, Jr.
Wine Amphorae Wines & Liquors LLC
Woman’s Club of Parsippany
Special Thanks to: STA-Student Transportation of America
PARSIPPANY — Springfield College recently held its commencement weekend where 621 master’s degrees, nine certificates of advanced graduate study, 16 doctor of philosophy degrees, and 27 doctoral of physical therapy degrees were awarded at the graduate commencement ceremony. At the undergraduate commencement, 973 bachelor’s degrees were awarded for a two-day total of 1646 degrees.
Brigid Crystal has earned a doctor of physical therapy degree in Physical Therapy. Brigid is a 2009 Graduate of Parsippany Hills High School.
Founded in 1885, Springfield College is known worldwide for the guiding principles of its humanics philosophy–educating students in spirit, mind and body for leadership in service to others. With its foundation of academic excellence and rich athletic heritage, Springfield College prepares students with real-world leadership skills for careers that transform lives and communities. The college offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of health sciences, human and social services, sport management and movement studies, education, business, and the arts and sciences. It also offers doctoral programs in physical education, physical therapy, and counseling psychology. The college is ranked in the 2015 edition of “Best Colleges” in the top tier of “Best Regional Universities – North Region” by U.S.News and World Report, and is designated as a premier Leadership Development Center by the YMCA of the USA. More than 5,000 traditional, nontraditional and international students study at its main campus in Springfield, Mass., and at its School of Human Services campuses across the country.
A judge in Atlantic County has just held that public agencies cannot sue records requestors for declarations that the records sought are not subject to the Open Public Records Act (OPRA). The court affirmed that only the requestor can sue under OPRA and awarded attorney’s fees to the defendant-requestor!
The action arose following an OPRA request for surveillance video footage from the Township of Hamilton. Instead of granting or denying the request, the Township filed a lawsuit seeking relief from its obligation to respond.
Morris County Freeholders with Mayor Barberio in happier times.
The Morris County Board of Freeholders will take over management of the Morris County Jail on September 1, 2015, removing Sheriff Edward Rochford as manager of jail operations.
Citing state law that allows freeholder boards to “exercise the custody, rule, keeping and charge of county jails,’’ the freeholder board voted Wednesday night to direct the county administrator to take all steps needed to assume direct control of the county lockup, which is located in Morris Township. The vote was 6-0. Freeholder John Cesaro abstained.
The freeholder board, in making its decision, cited ongoing fiscal differences with the sheriff, including excessive raises negotiated with corrections unions and huge overtime increases at the jail despite a marked reduction in the number of inmates. They also cited the sheriff’s unwillingness to cooperate with the County Office of Labor Relations, which has historically negotiated all labor contracts for the county, and with a general lack of communications on many issues.
Under Sheriff Rochfords watch The correctional facility received accreditation through the American Correctional Association (ACA), one of only two jails in the state and one of only 145 county jails nationwide to do so.
The freeholders on Wednesday also voted to reject four labor agreements that have been negotiated this year by Sheriff Rochford, including two with corrections unions.
“The county has determined that it is in the best interests of Morris County to have the Morris County Freeholder Board assume complete and sole oversight of the corrections facility,’’ according to the resolution passed by the county governing board on Wednesday night. “ The County Administrator and County Counsel are hereby directed to take all necessary actions to implement this transfer…’’ according to the freeholder resolution.
Late this afternoon, Rochfords office issued the following statement:
We are still digesting all that transpired in the middle of the night as this comes as a complete shock to us. Never once was there expressed concern or a phone call made with regards to the management of the jail. There is no justification for taking over the jail as it has just received national accreditation for the 11th year in a row ranking it in the top 1% of all jails in the entire country. Chris Christie’s own State Comptroller studied all state jails and reported our jail as the 5th lowest out of the 21 counties for overtime spending. The jail is currently undergoing its annual inspection from the state and is expecting to receive a 100% as in past years.
“This is an abuse of power by the Freeholders. They are playing with the taxpayers’ safety for their own political purposes. They are legally allowed to take over the jail but it makes no fiscal sense to do so and the taxpayers should look to Warren and Ocean Counties where the jail was taken over by their respective Freeholder Boards and then returned to the Sheriff because it was an expense and a liability they did not actually want to bear.” Rochford explains. The Freeholders spent hundreds of thousands of dollars with study after study trying to justify dismantling the Bureau of Law Enforcement and creating a county police but despite their best attempts, the public outcry shut that down. Now they are after the jail without any due diligence but rather, just because they can.
The idea of setting up a meeting with the Freeholders to discuss the signed contracts only was originated two months ago in a meeting with County Administrator, John Bonanni. The Freeholders conveniently chose a day that the Sheriff had to be out of town at a professional commitment. Our very own Morris County chief, Chief Wagner from Denville was being sworn in as the 100th President of the Chiefs Association. This is a huge deal for the county and every law enforcement leader was in attendance to show support. The Sheriff requested on three separate occasions to have the meeting rescheduled citing the importance of this event, to no avail. No professional courtesy was given to reschedule. He agreed to call into the meeting via phone so he could participate but he was not able to connect to which the county officials claimed was due to “technical difficulties” on their end; leaving Rochford unable to participate in the meeting at all.
There was no public announcement of this Resolution on the agenda which is simply downright unethical. In fact, Freeholder Cesaro claimed at the meeting that he also didn’t know anything about this and suggested publically at the meeting that the vote be held off until the Sheriff could have an opportunity to speak, however the board charged forward. Perhaps it is actions like this that caused Cesaro to separate himself from the losing incumbents Scapicchio and Krikus because he holds himself to a higher code of ethics.
The Bureau of Corrections has seen a spike in overtime due to the continued mass departures resulting from the egregiously uncompetitive salaries. Since 2012, we have lost 39% of our new officers within their first two years. This equates to close to $800,000 in training costs of replacement officers and close to the same amount for overtime to fill the void of the departing officers during the lapse of time required to get a new officer approved, through the academy and up and running. The Sheriff has addressed this with the Board of Chosen Freeholders and County officials but they have disrespectfully ignored him and his 50 years of law enforcement experience.
The Sheriff, with reaffirmed authority to do so after the May 2014 Bergen Case decision of Sheriff Saudino vs. rouge Executive Administrator Donovan, had to take things in his own hands and negotiate a reasonable contract, giving back the steps back that were taken away in their last contract; steps that are standard in this profession across the country. “The Freeholders tout a $60 million surplus, much of which they accumulated off the backs of our employees in the years they took away their steps and gave them a zero percent increase. That has hurt the agency and ultimately the county tremendously as the financial drain from this constant loss of officers has grown out of control. As an agency we have spent roughly $1.2 million in each of the last two years in training replacements. That doesn’t even include the money we spent on the overtime that occurred due to the void. These new contracts collectively total about $600,000 in additional salary and wages which is less than half of what we are spending each year in replacements. The Sheriff has brought this to the attention of the Freeholders many times, too many to innumerate, but it seems to fall on deaf ears. In fact, the Freeholders spent over four years litigating and repeatedly appealing the last Corrections union contract spending an exorbitant amount of taxpayer’ money only to be hammered by the Appellate court on the 5th appeal. The Freeholders have used the taxpayer funds as their bottomless pit to beat down their opponents in the court room.
In this last election of the Freeholders, each candidate was asked in a public debate if they would spend 50 cents to save a dollar, to which every single one of them unequivocally agreed that they would. This is essentially what we have here. Increase our salary and wages by $600,000 and we will save the county far more than $1.2 million a year.
In short, the Sheriff has negotiated in good faith with his unions for the best interest of the agency and the county at large. He has always remained fiscally responsible and conscientious. He has acted within his legal rights and dutiful responsibilities. The contracts are within the salary ranges set forth by the governing body themselves for county law enforcement. The salaries three years from now will still be lower than those the Prosecutor’s Office enjoy today so there should not be any issue. The Freeholder Board is interfering with the Sheriff’s ability to run the agency in his fiscally conservative ways and as a result have created this overtime issue that they are now touting as mismanagement.
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Troy-Hills Fire District 6 and Parsippany Fire District 5 were dispatched to Zimmer Trabecular Metal Tech, 10 Pomeroy Road at approximately 12:15 a.m. on Thursday, June 25 on a reported fire in a commercial building. Upon their arrival, they were met by the plant supervisor and security guard who confirmed that employees were evacuated prior to Parsippany Police arrival.
Upon arrival fire crews found a small fire in a piece of the machinery inside the building, which was caused by a malfunctioning motor.
Lake Hiawatha Fire Department District 4 and Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department District 1 were dispatched for their Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) and Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Company District 3 for additional manpower.
Crews were able to extinguish the fire quickly, but were faced with a hazmat condition. Parsippany Volunteer District 5 Hazmat Team was dispatched to the scene.
The Morris County Office of Emergency Management, Emergency Medical Services, Morris County Hazardous Materials Team and New Jersey department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) were also on scene along with Whippany Fire Department, and Morris County Hazmat.
After the fire was extinguished, the NJ DEP conducted a chemical reading and did not locate any high levels of chlorine in the building, deeming the premises safe for reentry. No injuries resulted during the incident and the 15 exposed firefighters were decontaminated prior to leaving the scene.
Parsippany Police Department, Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad and Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Unit were also at the scene.
Pine Brook Volunteer Fire Department and East Hanover Fire Department provided station coverage during this time at District 5 Old Bloomfield Avenue firehouse.
Parsippany Focus observed early this morning Department of Enviromental Protection (DEP) officials and Hazmat Response Team Marines Services, a private contractor, were working on the clean up from the loading dock in front of the building.
Editors Note: Story was updated with additional information on June 25 at 4:20 p.m.
PARSIPPANY — Success Communications Group (SCG), a full-service communications firm focused on public relations and advertising – recently welcomed Fort Lee resident Erin Ford to its public relations department. Success Communications Group is located at 26 Eastmans Road.
A former intern with SCG, Ford’s responsibilities include creating online content and distributing releases for clients in a wide range of industries, including retail, education, healthcare, and real estate.
“SCG is pleased to welcome Erin back as a full-time member of our team,” says Michael Cherenson, APR, executive vice president of the Parsippany-based firm. “As the communications field evolves, recent graduates like Erin enter the work force with strong backgrounds in social media platforms and online content. Our clients will benefit from this foundation of knowledge.”
Ford graduated from Penn State University and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies, with a minor in International Studies.
“I believe there’s a lot of room to grow and introduce new, creative approaches to fit our clients’ needs,” Ford says. “I’m grateful to be given this opportunity to kick off my career.”
About Success Communications Group
Success Communications Group (formerly The Cherenson Group) was founded 50 years ago, and is a respected leader among agencies that provide advertising, public relations, and recruitment/classified advertising services. The firm is based in Parsippany, with satellite offices throughout the country.
PARSIPPANY — Come celebrate Pet Valu’s new location with a Grand Opening Celebration at the Parsippany store on Saturday, June 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. PetValu is located at Morris Hills Shopping Center.
Enjoy complimentary refreshments, face painting, raffle prizes and fun with the Pet Valu mascot.
A variety of animal rescues and organizations will be onsite throughout the day facilitating pet adoptions and showcasing pet services:
8:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m. Ruff Rehab Inc.
8:30 a.m. 2:00 p.m. Mind of Dog, LLC
10:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. Classy Lassies Mobile Pet Spa
12:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. FernDog LLC
3:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Miss Pat’s Cats.
Pet Valu Pet Store is a specialty retailer of premium pet food, treats, toys and accessories. They offer over 7,000 products, including holistic, national and premium brands of pet foods and treats as well as a wide selection of essential and innovative pet supplies for all budgets, purchased from over 200 suppliers in 11 countries. Visit Pet Valu online at www.petvalu.com.
A server at a New Jersey Houlihan’s is suing the restaurant’s owners over what she alleges is an illegal tip-pooling policy. Erica Sargent, of Woodbury Heights, filed a lawsuit on June 13 in federal court against ACE Restaurant Group, which owns and operates about 15 Houlihan’s locations in the Garden State. The suit claims that Houlihan’s…
TRENTON — Casinos in north Jersey? The odds are against it. A Fairleigh Dickinson University PublicMind poll of 913 New Jersey residents released Tuesday found 56 percent oppose allowing casinos outside of Atlantic City, while just 37 percent support it. “The public is questioning the logic behind allowing the spread of casino gambling,” said Krista Jenkins,…
TRENTON — More than two and a half years after Hurricane Sandy pushed his approval rating to an all time high of 77 percent, Gov. Christie’s polls are now reaching record lows seemingly every month. To better understand his precipitous slide, NJ Advance Media asked a quartet of top Garden State pollsters to describe the governor’s…
PARSIPPANY — On Thursday, June 25 and possibly Friday, June 26, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. the Northbound lane of Littleton Road, East of the Parsippany Boulevard intersection will be closed due to construction. The following access is affected:
1) Traffic traveling East from 202 will NOT be able to continue through the Parsippany Boulevard intersection.
2) Traffic traveling South on Parsippany Boulevard will NOT be able to make a left turn onto Littleton Road.
3) Traffic traveling North on Parsippany Road will NOT be able to make a right turn onto Littleton Road.
Please use Route 46 East to the Littleton Spur which is located between the gas stations prior to Smith Road. This will direct you to the intersection at the District 6 Firehouse near the Route 287 North on-ramp. Thank you for your patience.
