PARSIPPANY — Twenty youths from the Chinese Christian Church of New Jersey cleaned up the two-mile stretch of South Beverwyck Road on Saturday, April 25.
The clean up began at the Parsippany-Troy Hills Fire District 5 firehouse on South Beverwyck and ended at Old Troy Park on Bee Meadow Parkway. One team worked on clearing trash from the north bound side of the road while the other team worked on the other side.
Together, they collected a total of 25 large garbage bags of trash! This was part of the Chinese Christian Church’s annual community service project to serve the township of Parsippany.
Members of the Chinese Church picked up trash along South Beverwyck on SaturdayMembers of the Chinese Church collected 25 bags of trash along South Beverwyck
PARSIPPANY — The Par-Troy Little League East held its Opening Day ceremonies on Saturday, April 25 at the Delio Field.
Parsippany High School Junior Meghan Wisniewski sings the National Anthem. Some of the Little Leaguers recited “The Little League Pledge.”
The Pledge: I trust in God, I love my country, And will repsect its laws, I will play fiar, And Strive to win, but win or lose, I will always do my best.
After throwing some of the opening balls, the fans got to enjoy some food at the snack bar, there was a Tricky Tray and 50/50. Some area vendors had tables set up displaying their products.
Some of the players reciting the Little League Pledge
Mayor James Barberio throws out one of the first balls
Joe Plescia throws out one of the first balls
Dan Delio throws out one of the first balls of the day
Freeholder John Cesaro throws out one of the first balls
Frank Neglia throws out one of the first balls
Councilman Louis Valori throws out one of the first balls
Council Vice President Robert Peluso throws out one of the first balls
Joe Orlando throws out of the first balls
Councilman Michael dePierro throws out one of the first balls
DJ Priore spins the music. DJ Priore is with DBoy Entertainment and donates his time to the Little League. He can be reached at 973-650-9426
Joe Orlando and Daniel Delio, both have fields at Par-Troy Little League named after them
Presidents: Past and Present: John Bucciarelli, Peggy Clayton, Jeff Levine, Tracy Waffenfeld and Joe Plescia
The Plescia Family: Michael, Susan, Joseph and David
Parsippany Council Candidate Vincent Ferrara, Daniel Delio, Loretta Gragnani, Councilman Michael dePierro and Debra Delio
Ashley Jensen, Sports Care Institute was one of the many exhibitors at the event
Aaron Mulinti, 8, and Christian Portillo, 8, part of the Valori Vikings
DJ O’Brien, 10, with Jack the Jackal
Joanne Koch with Jack the Jackal
Josh Levine, Kve Phillips, Matt Strumolo, Ryan Dimmelmeier,and Brandon Schweizer
Joe Orlando, Paul Furfaro and Jeff Levine
Freeholder John Cesaro and his son Jake
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Candidate Aida Visakay, Councilman Louis Valori and Michael Plescia
Tracy Waffenfeld and Eric Hubner
The Little League Playerswith Jack the Jackal
Stull Mechanical Team Players
The Carifi Crusaders
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Team Players
Peluso Pride Team Players
Sons of Italy Players
The dePierro Defenders
The Parsippany High School Baseball Team
Jack the Jackal and Hayden Cerrato
Parsippany High School Junior Meghan Wisniewski signs the National Anthem
Shari Finchler received the Par-Troy East Michael Weist Sportsmanship Award. She exemplifies The “Good Sportsmanship” Attitude and Team Spirit associated with Little League Baseball -2015.
Kevin Preston received the Par-Troy East Michael Weist Sportsmanship Award. He exemplifies The “Good Sportsmanship” Attitude and Team Spirit associated with Little League Baseball -2015.
Joseph Colasuonno received the Par-Troy East Michael Weist Sportsmanship Award. He exemplifies The “Good Sportsmanship” Attitude and Team Spirit associated with Little League Baseball -2015.
PARSIPPANY — Boy Scout Troop 72 and Cub Scout Packs 177 and 215 joined together with the township’s Parks and Forestry Department to continue a longstanding tradition.
It was their biggest year yet. They had 30 Boy Scouts and Leaders from Troop 72, 19 Cub Scouts and family members from Pack 177 and an incredible 55 Cub Scouts and family from Pack 215.
In 1972, then-Parks Director Joseph Jannarone Sr. introduced an idea: presenting every third grader in town with his or her very own tree seedling. Over the passing decades, many trees in this town—a national Tree City USA since 1975—have grown from the plantings made by local school children.
For 2015, the tradition continued as the scouts gathered Thursday evening at the Parks and Forestry building on Knoll Road to prepare pine tree seedlings, which were distributed to third graders Friday, Arbor Day. The scouts have assisted in this endeavor for several years, and in that time have committed several hundred hours to this project alone.
The scouts preparing the seedlings for Arbor Day
Daniel Bamert and Matthew Sonzogni
Matthew Sonzogni working hard preparing the seedlings
The scouts from Pack 215 working on the seedlings
The troops working together
Josh Knowle, Troop 72 holding a seedling he prepared for Arbor Day
Kris Hawkins, Troop 72, holding seedlings he prepared
The Italian American Police Society of New Jersey held its annual sold-out Pasta Night for Special Olympics, on Saturday, April 25. The event was held at Local 464 Union Hall located at 245 Paterson Avenue, Little Falls.
A record crowd attended amd enjoyed a gourmet homemade Italian meal of antipasto, meatballs, sausage, spaghetti, stuffed shells, salads and more than 30 different desserts.
Thanks to the members a very successful Tricky Tray raised a lot of money for this important cause. The attendees were treated to a comedy show and the event was a huge success.
Thanks for the generous food donations as well as to the many volunteers that worked from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. cooking, cleaning, preparing food and serving. What a great way to enjoy an evening together and help New Jersey’s Special Olympics athletes.
The 2015 Winners: Jim Hecht, Jayne Beline, Ginny Sherinates, Kiwanis Club President Mimi Letts, Chris Fedda, Joe Sheemaets, David Schappert, Tom Beline and Emily Beline
PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany held its 12th Annual Ultimate Trivia Night, on Saturday, April 25 at the Parsippaly PAL.
The Beline Team won first prize with the most correct answers.
The room was packed! The crowd had lots of fun. The rules very simple: The use of ANY electronic device whatsoever during competition will immediately disqualify the offending team. This includes but is not limited to I-Pod’s, PDA’s, ICBM’s, etc. Furthermore, the use of printed material such as encyclopedias, almanacs, National Geographics, and the like, were strictly prohibited!
In addition, the attendees were asked to bring an extra, non-perishable food item to donate to the Parsippany Food Bank.
You are invited to attend a meeting every Thursday morning at 7:15 a.m. at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46, Parsippany.
For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, click here.
Emily King, Seth Samelson, Sam duPont, Joanna Hecht, Amanda Hsiao, Harry Krejsa and Ricky Hortado
Nick Cerbo, Cathy Cerbo sitting, Nick Glorenzo, Adeliade Richardson, Susan Groll, Brad Fiorenzo and Donny Jarvis
Jean Edwards, Steven Dickens, Nancy Dickens, Jim Edwards, Donna Enrick, Jack Emericil and Allison Dickens
Greg Elbin was the Master of Cermonies
Wendy Spector, Jim Allen, Pat Allen, Mary Giannetti and Karen & Ralph DeChristopher
Debbie Mellinger, Bob Young, Linda Kelly, Lucille Uhlman, Marie Sigmann and Joanna Hamilton
Howard and Mimi Letts were two of the four judges
Ronda and Stan Kron were two of the four judges
Michael Maziekien, Emily Weisenstein, Alene Sahraie, Michele Reutty, Steve Vega, Christian Maiullo, Brett Solomon and Luca Manna
Bob Keller, Jack Waslh, Eleanor Walsh, Matt Toplewski, Jean Montecuollo, Anita Baldwin and Connie Keller
PARSIPPANY — With a few weeks until the Police Unity Tour 2015 starts in East Hanover and heads to Washington D.C., Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Paul Philipps received some donations from several local businesses, organizations and invididuals. They will ride approximately 300 miles in the four days.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, The Rotary Club of Parsippany, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce, IHOP (International House of Pancakes), Former Mayor Frank B. Priore and the Limanov family all recently donated money to the Police Unity Tour.
The schedule of the Police Unity Tour:
Saturday, May 09 – Police Unity Tour Send Off: Target / Ramada Inn, Route 10 West, East Hanover
Tuesday, May 12 – Police Unity Tour Arrival Ceremony, 2:00 p.m. National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, E Street between 4th & 5th Street, NW Washington D.C.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015 – 26th Annual Candlelight Vigil – National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, 8:00 p.m. E Street between 4th & 5th St, NW Washington D.C.
Nicolas Limanov donates money on behalf of himself and his family to Police Unity Tour
Frank Cahill, Nicolas Limanov, Mo Abdelhadi, co-owner IHOP, Parsippany Police Chief Paul Philipps and Robert Peluso
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief with Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso during a recent breakfast networking event where the Chamber donated to the Police Unity Tour
Parsippany Police Chief Paul Philipps thanking Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill for the donation to Police Unity Tour
Membership to Police Unity Tour is open to all full or part time law enforcement officers, whether active or retired. Civilians 18 years of age or older, who are employed or affiliated with law enforcement agencies and related organizations or possess specific training or skills required to safely and effectively assist the organization may apply. These requirements include, but are not limited to: dispatchers, first aid personnel, doctors, nurses, lawyers, mechanics (automobile and bicycle) and members of organizations such as the Concerns of Police Survivors, Domestic Violence Response Teams.
In May 1997 the Police Unity Tour, Chapter 1, was organized, by Officer Patrick P. Montuore of the Florham Park Police Department, with the hope of bringing public awareness of Police Officers who have died in the line of duty and to honor their sacrifices. What started with 18 riders on a four day fund-raising bicycle ride from Florham Park to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. Has grown into nine Chapters consisting of over 1,800 members nationwide who make the trip annually.
As the original / founding chapter of the Police Unity Tour, Chapter I is still based in Florham Park where Pat Montuore now serves as the Chief of Police.
Although based in New Jersey they welcome members from all other states as well as other countries. In addition to having members represent over 40 states they had members from Australia, England, Israel, Italy, India and Canada.
They are proud to be part of the many accomplishments of the Police Unity Tour which this past May announced that for 2014 they were able to donate over 1.9 Million Dollars to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, bringing our total donations to nearly 16 Million Dollars.
A child at First Baptist Community Church with a pinwheel
PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, April 26, the children at First Baptist Community Church planted pinwheels for “April is Child Abuse Prevention Month.”
The Kiwnais Club of Greater Parsippany is participating in a town-wide campaign. They have displays at Parsippany Municipal Building, Veterans Park, Cerbo Lumber, Livingston Governor House, Empire Diner, Parsippany-Troy Hill Library as well as other locations.
April was first declared Child Abuse Prevention Month by presidential proclamation in 1983. Since then, April has been a time to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse.
First Baptist Community Church
The children holding the pinwheels
Children planting the pinwheels
A child at First Baptist Community Church with a pinwheel
Karen DeChristopher helps a child plant a pinwheel
The Pinwheel garden at First Baptist Community Church
In Child Maltreatment 2013 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Children, Youth and Families Children’s Bureau, it was reported that in FFY 2013 in the fifty states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, an estimated 679,000 children were victims of child abuse; and 1,484 children died as a result of abuse or neglect. The majority of child abuse cases stemmed from situations and conditions that can be preventable when community programs and systems are engaged and supportive. A community that cares about early childhood development, parental support, and maternal mental health, for instance, is more likely to foster nurturing families and healthy children.
First Baptist Community Church is located at 800 Vail Road.
Temperatures in Parsippany will remain a bit cooler than normal for the end of April and meteorologists are calling for “quite pleasant” weather overall on Sunday.
Highs in the upper 50s or lower 60s are mostly expected throughout the region, according to the National Weather Service’s Mount Holly office, and sunshine should make its way through the clouds. Low temperatures, meanwhile, should mainly fall overnight to the low- and mid-40s.
A high of 62 degrees is expected in Parsippany on Sunday, with mostly sunny skies.
Several students craeted and held up signs of different types of trees, seeds, Arbor Day
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills celebrated their Annual Arbor Day celebration at the Parsippany Municipal Building, on Friday, April 24.
Parsippany also is celebrating 39 years as Tree City USA.
Attending the celebration was Mayor James Barberio, Councilman Michael dePierro, Council Vice President Robert Peluso, Freeholders Doug Cabana and Tom Mastrangelo, Parsippany-Troy Hills Business Administrator Ellen Sandman, Superintendent of Schools Scott Rixford, Parks and Forestry Department Superintendant James Walsh, the First Grade Class of Little School and the Second Grade Class from Mt. Tabor School.
In addition, Jack Shuart, Tree City USA, presented Parsippany Township and both elementary schools with a banner honoring Parsippany as Tree City USA, 39 years in a row. Mr. Shuart stated that it is possible that Parsippany will be the host for the States 40th Anniversary Arbor Day celebration next year.
Everyone who attended received seedlings for planting, which was prepared by the Boy Scouts.
Bob Campbell, Sr. and his partners also demonstrated bee hives and educated the children about local honeybees.
Arbor Day (from the Latin arbor, meaning tree) is a holiday in which individuals and groups are encouraged to plant and care for trees. Today, many countries observe such a holiday. Though usually observed in the spring, the date varies, depending on climate and suitable planting season.
This year Arbor Day is celebrated on Friday, April 24.
The first American Arbor Day was originated in Nebraska City, Nebraska, United States by J. Sterling Morton. On April 10, 1872, an estimated one million trees were planted in Nebraska.
Birdsey Northrop of Connecticut was responsible for globalizing it when he visited Japan in 1883 and delivered his Arbor Day and Village Improvement message. In that same year, the American Forestry Association made Northrop the Chairman of the committee to campaign for Arbor Day nationwide. He also brought his enthusiasm for Arbor Day to Australia, Canada, and Europe.
Bob Campell Sr. shows and talks about the bees to the students
Students going up to the front to observe the bees
First Grade Students from Littleton School sing a song about trees
Mayor James Barberio showing off his viking ring while Councilman Michael DePierro and Councilman Robert Peluso watch on
Students from Mount Tabor and Littleton listen about the history of Arbor Day
Several students craeted and held up signs of different types of trees, seeds, Arbor Day
Students from Mount Tabor singing and moving to a song about trees
Jack Shuart from Tree City USA presenting the banner to The Township of Parsippany. File Photo
Students from Littleton School pictured with Mayor James Barberio, Councilman Robert Peluso, Councilman Micheal DePierro and Freeholders Thomas Mastroangelo and Doug Cabana
ROXBURY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Officer in Charge Martin McParland, Jr., of the Rockaway Township Police Department, announce that Roger Schneider, 55, residing at 11 Notch Road, Rockaway Township, has been charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(1), a crime of the 2nd degree, and Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3a, a crime of the 3rd degree. Schneider is the Assistant Principal at Roxbury High School.
During the week of April 20, 2015, the alleged victim (referred to by the fictitious initials X.X.) disclosed to a third person that Schneider had sexually touched X.X. Schneider was subsequently interviewed on or about April 24, 2015, and admitted committing acts of contact upon X.X.’s intimate parts. During a subsequent interview by law enforcement, X.X. disclosed acts of sexual contact between Schneider’s hand and X.X.’s genitals. X.X. resided part time at the defendant’s home between the dates of August of 2013 and January of 2015. The defendant was acting in loco parentis to the victim with X.X.’s parents’ consent. X.X. was 15 years old at the time of the alleged incidents. X.X. is not a student in the Roxbury school district.
On April 24, 2015, the Honorable Gerard Smith, J.M.C., authorized charges against Schneider for Endangering the Welfare of a Child, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(1), a crime of the 2rd degree, and Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-3a, a crime of the 3rd degree. Schneider was arrested by the Rockaway Police Department on April 25, 2015, and bail was set at $100,000 with no 10% option, no contact with the victim, and surrender of any firearms.
The investigation is active and ongoing. No other information is being released at this time.
Anyone with information relating to these charges or any similar conduct by this defendant is urged to contact Detective Bruce LaFera of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit at 973 285-6200.
Prosecutor Knapp would like to thank the Rockaway Township Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PARSIPPANY — The Sedgefield Civic Association held a very successful International Wine and Cheese social on Friday, April 24 at the Mout Tabor Fire House.
Wines from around the world were offered to the guests attending the event. Sandwiches and cheeses were supplied by The Daily Joe, 56 Fanny Road.
Dan Coleman, owner of Creative Solutions Investigative Services, spoke to the crowd regarding residential burglaries. Dan founded Creative Solutions in 2012. He retired from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and built the company on the foundation that the investigative firm provides superior evidence and results capable of holding up in a state or federal criminal prosecution.
Carlos I. Guzman, President Sedgefield Civic Association addresses the residents
Mayor James Barberio addressing the audience
The audience listens to the speeches
George Kimmey
Resident Marie Taylor, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Louis Valori and resident Dee Kunz
Carlos Guzman and Friendlys of Morris Plains owner Will Haiback and Alex Bertrand
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President speaking to resident Virginia Kimmey
Carlos Guzman with Mayor James Barberio
Louis Valori, Carlos Guzman and Robert Peluso
Diane Govelitz and her mom Virginia Kimmey. Diane is the owner of The Daily Joe
Dan Coleman offered information regarding home burglaries
Boy Scouts Troop 173 was chartered by the Sedgefield Civic Association in 1957 and the Association still sponsors the Troop.
The History of Sedgefield…. In the late 40″s Justus Nienaber purchased a 200 acre tract from Peter Freylinghuysen Jr. This was formerly the Ballantine Estate and included a beautiful two-story white colonial mansion, complete with gazebo, creek, pond and other outbuildings.
In 1949, he started to develop Sedgefield with a group of builders. The name was taken from a charming and peaceful Carolina resort hotel, The Sedgefield Inn, which is surrounded by a development of gracious homes.
The name Sedgefield itself is derived from two Anglo-Saxon words: secg (a sword), its popular meaning – any course, grasslike herb, growing in damp places; and feld – a cleared piece of land.
Carrying on with the Anglo-Saxon Association, all the streets bear the names of English towns, villages or locations. The three entry streets are Sherwood, Sedgefield and Dartford. All streets between Sedgefield and Dartford are in alphabetical order. All streets between Robinhood and Friar are of English origin but are not in alphabetical order.
Development in Sedgefield can be determined by the type of roads in the area. The first section contained ranch or single story homes built on streets with no curbs. The second section contained ranch, split-level and two-story colonials built on streets with concrete curbs. The third and final section contained two-story colonials or split-level homes built on streets with Belgian block curbing and sidewalks.
Long time residents can remember when Littleton Road (US 202) was a two-lane tree-line road with very little traffic. It passed Rusty’s Hardware Store, the old St. Christopher’s Church (which was housed in the Blue Swan Inn) and a goat farm that used to be in the area of the Littleton Road bridge over Route 80. Alderney Dairy had a barn and pasture where Gatehall is now located. Cows and deer used to wander into Sedgefield along Robinhood Road. A few deer still visit us on occasion.
Back then, the Morris Plains Shopping Center had a Two Guys from Harrison store. Sip and Sup was located at the intersection of Route 202 and Route 10 where one could enjoy food and dairy products in a leisurely manner and watch the few cars going through the intersection. The area now covered with commercial buildings (Campus Drive, Sylvan Way and Dryden Way) contained dairy farms and was used by the Civic Association for picnics and fireworks.
In the 1970s, Sherwood Village (the section around Sherwood, Friar, Robinhood and Littlejohn Roads) was included as part of Sedgefield. Crawford Road was the last area to be developed.
The last home in Sedgefield was erected in 1988, a two-story colonial manufactured in Pennsylvania. This was the 295th home in Sedgefield.
PARSIPPANY — What makes a home? Find out with fun activities exploring what home means for people, animals, and more!
The Stickley Museum hosts its third annual Family Fun & Games program on Saturday, May 9, from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. The day’s activities are built around the theme “My Home.”
Children of all ages will be invited to explore and learn about homes of all kinds, including the Stickley family’s home, the Log House at Craftsman Farms. Families are invited to visit the Education Room for the chance to get up close & personal with live animals from Animal Experiences, an outreach program developed by the Happy Tales Animal Sanctuary in Pine Bush, NY. Children will have the opportunity to pet and ask questions about the animals and their homes in nature in a fun and safe environment.
Stick around for Story Time in the Log House, brought to you by the Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library.
While focused on family fun, this program will also encourage children to consider concepts that Gustav Stickley held dear, like the value of nature and the meaning of home. The program will include scavenger hunts, both indoors and out, that encourage a fun exploration of the Log House and its beautiful natural environment, craft activities, and games. And while you’re here, treat your family to snow cones from Kona Ice.
Admission is FREE to Members at the Dual/Family level and above. All others $10.00 for Children for the first two children; $5.00 for each additional Child; $5.00 for Adult. No reservations necessary.
Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announces that the Honorable Stuart A. Minkowitz, P.J.S.C. sentenced Bernard W. Ozarowski, 60, of Princeton, to serve five years of Special Probation pursuant to the terms of the Morris County Drug Court for second degree Misapplication of Entrusted Property in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:21-15. He was further ordered to pay restitution to four victims in the amount of $509,998.44.
On March 19, Ozarowski pled guilty to second degree Misapplication of Entrusted Property, in connection with his role as executor of the estate of R.H. who was Ozarowski’s brother-in-law. R.H. was a former resident of Madison who died in December of 2011. At the time of his death, his life insurance policy, annuity funds, IRA accounts, certificates of deposit and other bank accounts contained significant assets. However, between December 8, 2011 and September 5, 2012, Ozarowski illegally transferred assets of the estate to his own company, Loyola Management, a dealer and distributor of print services as well as a document management company.
If the defendant violates the terms of the Special Probation he could be ordered to serve up to ten years in the New Jersey State Prison.
The State was represented during the sentencing by Morris County Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Francine S. Ehrenberg.
Prosecutor Knapp would like to thank the Financial Crimes Unit of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and Assistant Prosecutor Julian Hill for their efforts resulting in this sentence.
Online Recruiting Ads also indicate PAC is paying field workers in Parsippany
PARSIPPANY — Internal Revenue Service filings for the liberal Democrat Super PAC called New Jersey’s Future Fund link the Washington, DC-based organization to an Essex County Democratic Party Committeeman named Robert Dombrowski, said the Conservative Republican Team of Council President Paul Carifi, Jr, businesswoman Aida Visakay and community leader John Beehler today. (Click here to see IRS Filing)
Zip Recuriter ad for America’s Future First
In addition, want ads via the online hiring service ZipRecruiter.com reveal that the Democrat Super PAC is actively hiring and paying field workers to aid the campaign of Republican Councilman Mike dePierro and running mates Vincent Ferrara and Loretta Gragnani.
The Carifi Team also said they had received an email from Morris County Republican Chairman John Sette saying he was “shocked and against” this outside interference in Parsippany’s GOP Primary and would gladly share his opinion with the media if asked.
The Carifi Team said the new revelations raise more questions about who is funding the PAC and what their motivation is to meddle in a Parsippany Council race. Moreover, the Carifi Team said the fact that the Super PAC used a high-resolution image of dePierro and his team on their mailing – an image not publicly available anywhere – proves that dePierro or someone connected to him is working directly with the PAC in violation of campaign finance laws.
“Something is certainly rotten here in Parsippany,” said Carifi, Jr., echoing the headline recently in New Jersey’s leading conservative blog, Save Jersey. “I am now convinced this is all about lucrative public contracts controlled by people connected to and supported by Mike dePierro. They are the ones funding this PAC to attack me and my team, so they can keep their grip on millions of dollars in taxpayer-funded legal and insurance contracts in Parsippany. They know that if my team sweeps this election, their gravy train will be permanently derailed.”
Visakay and Beehler said Essex County Democratic Committeeman Robert Dombrowski, listed as the PAC’s Director, needs to be asked how he got involved in this PAC and who put him up to it. They said they have their own suspicions and were closing in on confirming them.
“The Washington, DC-based Treasurer of the PAC is in hiding after we questioned her involvement, so now it’s time to turn attention to Mr. Dombrowski,” said Visakay. “How did he come to be involved in this PAC? What is his interest in Parsippany? Who is funding this PAC and what is their connection to Parsippany? These are questions that must be answered. As PAC Director, Mr. Dombrowski has the ability to disclosure his funding sources and he should do that immediately,” said Visakay and Beehler.
PolitickerNJ.com’s coverage indicated that “sources” believe political appointees with legal and insurance contracts in Parsippany may be behind the PAC.
“If these ‘sources’ are accurate – that’s a major problem. Mike dePierro needs to join our public call for this PAC to disclose its donors. They are benefitting his campaign after all,” added Beehler. “There are certainly people with a lot to lose if we win. Someone out there knows the whole truth here and the more we raise these alerts and turn up the pressure, we’re confident the truth will come out soon and uncover why this Democrat PAC is involved in our town’s Republican Primary.”
Parsippany Focus reached Morris County GOP Chairman John Sette for comment on Friday afternoon, and he stated “In respect of the long standing policies of Morris County Republican Chairman, I will not become involved in a local Primary election. For too many years certain Parsippany Republicans have supported Democrats in General Elections. It is my hope that Parsippany Republicans will unite after the Primary so that we can maintain Republican control of the council. I am always available to assist Parsippany Republicans in that regard.”
Councilman Michael dePierro, Council Candidates Loretta Gragnani and Vincent Ferrara did not respond to requests for comment.
A tree planting ceremony was held in honor of Arbor Day at the Township’s historic Baldwin House located at 460 South Beverwyck Road
PARSIPPANY — Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills has been named a Tree City for the 39th consecutive year. Tree City USA recognition from the National Arbor Day Foundation is a symbol of how important our community forestry program is to us.
Communities receive Tree City USA designation upon recommendation by state foresters who co-sponsor the program along with USDA Forest Service. To become a Tree City USA, a community must have a city tree ordinance, a legal tree governing body, a comprehensive forestry program and an Arbor Day observance.
A tree planting ceremony was held in honor of Arbor Day at the Township’s historic Baldwin House located at 460 South Beverwyck Road.
PARSIPPANY — The Morris County Multi-Organ Transplant Group is now holding their May meeting on Thursday, May 7 at a new location, the lower level meeting room of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Library, 449 Halsey Road. The meeting starts at 7:00 p.m. The normal meeting schedule will resume in June.
This group is open to anyone in the surrounding area who has had an organ or tissue transplant, on the wait list, donors and family members. All welcome!
Contact Nick with any questions at (973) 984-6966.
Earth Friendly Products celebrates their Grand Opening. Cutting the ribbon are General Manager Kenneth Teich, Council Vice President Robert Peluso, Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, CEO of Earth Friendly Products, Mayor James Barberio, Nicolas Limanov, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and Christine Kostantakis of Earth Friendly Products.
PARSIPPANY — Earth Friendly Products held a ribbon cutting celebration on Wednesday, April 22 at its new manufacturing facility where the company manufactures green cleaning products. The facility is located at 50 Lackawanna Avenue.
Family owned and operated since 1967, Earth Friendly Products is a team of mothers, fathers, chemists, visionaries and pioneers who passionately uphold the idea that everyone should have access to delightfully toxin-free products. Making ECOS® in their five carbon-neutral plants has enabled us to keep prices low and quality high, shattering myths that buying “green” has to be expensive.
The company, began making its products in New Jersey in 1989, starting in Westwood and moving to Norwood in 2007, needs more space as demand for its Ecos laundry detergent and other products has grown and has relocated its Northeastern operations to Parsippany. The Parsippany operation, one of five divisions, serves retailers on the East Coast, as well as markets in Europe and the Middle East.
Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, the daughter of Earth Friendly Products founder Van Vlahakis, is the company’s Chief Executive Officer.
About 50 people previously worked in two buildings totaling about 46,000 square feet in Norwood, a number that rose to about 60 in the new 80,000-square-foot on Lackawanna Avenue.
Earth Friendly was founded in 1967 by her father, Van Vlahakis, a Greek immigrant who was unhappy with the chemicals in the cleaners he worked on in his first jobs as a chemist.
The company is privately held and does not release sales numbers, but Vlahakis-Hanks said sales have quadrupled in the last five years, as large national retailers, including Walmart and Costco, have begun carrying their products. In the early years, the products were carried mostly by health and natural food stores.
The new location is in a building formerly occupied by the shipping company DHL. Earth Friendly renovated the building with an eye to the environment, using solar panels, recycled materials and paint that is low in volatile organic compounds. The company is seeking to have the property certified by the U.S. Green Building Council as a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building.
“Each of us can make a positive change in the way we live our lives to be part of a solution to preserve our planet. That’s why I choose Earth Friendly Products for my cleaning needs. They are naturally fresh, effective and safe for my health and the environment.” said Debbie Levin, Environmental Media Association.
Earth Friendly Products achieved carbon neutrality as a result of major sustainability initiatives, including the switch to 100% renewable electricity starting in 2010. Earth Friendly Products now saves 53,843,434 pounds of carbon dioxide annually.
Their logo stands proudly on the front of the building
Chief Executive Officer, Earth Friendly Products with Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Robert Peluso
The employees of Earth Friendly Products
Parsippany resident Alicia Bozza signing the National Athem
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Chief Executive Officer, Earth Friendly Products
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Treasurer Robert Greulich, CPA, Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, Chief Executive Officer, Earth Friendly Products and Parippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Robert Peluso
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Treasurer Robert Greulich, Andy King, Robert Peluso and Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member Nicolas Limanov
Mayor James Barberio, Michele Sylvan and Zach McCue, Project Specialist Cory A. Booker’s office
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Treasurer Robert Greulich, CPA, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerc Board Member Rick Wasserman, Parippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President Robert Peluso, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board Member Frank Cahill and Board Member Nicholas Limanov at the ribbon cutting ceremony
Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Vice President welcoming Earth Friendly Products to Parsippany
Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, Chief Executive Officer, Earth Friendly Products
Earth Friendly Products celebrates their Grand Opening. Cutting the ribbon are General Manager Kenneth Teich, Council Vice President Robert Peluso, Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, CEO of Earth Friendly Products, Mayor James Barberio, Nicolas Limanov, Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and Christine Kostantakis of Earth Friendly Products.
Members of Earth Friendly Products planting a tree for Earth Day at the Grand Opening Celebration
Jim Jones and Kelly Vlahakis-Hanks, Chief Executive Officer, Earth Friendly Products
The audience listens to the speeches during the ribbon cutting celebration
Zach McCue, Project Specialist Cory A. Booker’s office
The piano played during the catered luncheon
Inside of their new processing plant in Parsippany
Inside of their new processing plant in Parsippany
A product display in the research and development lab at Earth Friendly Products’ new manufacturing facility in Parsippany.
David Levine, Cofounder and CEP American Sustainable Business Council
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio addressing the audience
Members of Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 6, Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge 2078 and family of Aiden Duran
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 6 and Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge 2078 hosted a breakfast benefit for Aiden Duran on Sunday, April 19.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 6 parks the firetruck in front of Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge 2078
Members of Parsippany-Troy Hills Volunteer Fire District 6, Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge 2078 and family of Aiden Duran
Anne Herd, Emma Prisco and Domenico Prisco greeted the guests at the fundraiser
The Gallagher’s: Krystal, Heather and Brenda were guests at the fundraiser
Family of Aiden Duran
Frank Priore and BJ Chmura were guests at the fundraiser
All the proceeds from the event were given to the family of Aiden Duran to help with the expenses the family is occurring.
Andrew Lysandrou, a volunteer at Parippany-Troy Hills Fire District 6 arranged this fundraiser for the family.
This writer had the opportunity to meet family members and the family submitted their story to Parsippany Focus. We are sharing their message with our readers.
A message from the family of Aiden Alberto Duran:
Aiden Alberto Duran
Four year old Aiden is a warrior. He is a son, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend, and soon to be big brother of a little girl named Amy Angelica whom he is so anxious to meet. Since he was able to speak, Aiden has impressed us with his quick wit, charm, humor, and intelligence. His teacher told his mother that every day during recess, Aiden waits at the door until all of his classmates have passed through the door before he exits. It was also brought to our attention that he is very compassionate with all of his classmates as well. Wherever he saw a need, he demonstrated care, love, and compassion.
Aiden Alberto Duran
Today we will tell the story of a four year old, brave, and beloved little warrior named Aiden Alberto Duran. He arrived in October of 2010, a healthy eleven pound gorgeous little boy. He bought our family happiness and filled us with so much love.
During February of 2012, a parent’s worst nightmare occurred! Aiden was diagnosed with Clear Cell Sarcoma of the kidney. His parents were informed that he had to undergo surgery to remove the mass but they couldn’t save his kidney due to the size of the tumor which was attached to the organ. The treatment was intense and our families’ lives were changed forever. In May of 2013, Aiden’s appendix was removed. In October of 2013, Aiden got pneumonia and had to hospitalized again.
Aiden has always been a warrior. He DOESN’T know the word defeat! Aiden has been and is continually strong, full of life, love, and smiles. He has continually taught us to have faith and remain positive. It has been the glorious hand of God whom has sustained him and the family throughout all of these ordeals. The doctors couldn’t believe that with his diagnosis he was as strong as he was. We however, did know why he was as strong as he was. That is because ever since we knew that Carmen was pregnant, we claimed God’s blood and WORD over him since before he was even born and God’s divine word NEVER returns back void! When the enemy sees the blood of the Lamb, it flees for there is power in the blood of Jesus Christ! There is power in the name of Jesus!
Aiden Alberto Duran
God is our fortress and strong tower, an ever present help in the midst of our storms! The Psalmist said: “I will lift my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” Amen! We went with total confidence and drew from the throne of grace. It was there that we received mercy and found grace to help us in our time of need.
After several months of chemotherapy and some horrible scares, Aiden was finally cancer free! What a day! We praised God for his merciful hand over him and over time Aiden was able to attend pre-school. Aiden’s parents decided that it was time to continue their journey as a family and decided to give Aiden a baby sister. They decided to name her Amy Angelica. Amy Angelica will be born at the end of April 2015 and Aiden will be the best big brother anyone can ever have! Carmen’s pregnancy was full of happy days knowing that everything was back to normal and that the nightmare of painful days were left in the past.
This was until March 19, 2015. That Thursday, Aiden fell from his bed and hit his head on the ground. His parents rushed him to the Emergency Room for what they thought was a routine check-up for a simple bump. When the Cat-Scan results were revealed, once again the worst nightmare for a parent happened. They couldn’t believe that this was happening to them all over again!
The doctors informed his parents that Aiden had a massive brain tumor. God works in mysterious ways and we praise him continually no matter what! All things work out for good for those whom love the Lord and are called according to his purposes. By God’s beautiful grace, Aiden had not experienced any symptoms whatsoever and if it had not been that he fell from his bed, his diagnosis may have come too late. Due to his fall, his brain swole up.
Aiden Alberto Duran
Two days later on Saturday, March 21, the doctors decided to have emergency surgery due to the swelling of the brain. The family was informed that this surgery was going to undertake a minimum of six hours. BUT because our refuge and fortress is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. Our full trust is in the God of Israel! In less than two hours, two of the doctors came out to inform us that the surgery had been a total success. They confessed that they thought there going to have to dissect it …BUT by God’s divine intervention, they were able to take the whole mass out in one piece and in under two hours. Praise be unto God! For he whom dwells in the shelter of the Most High WILL abide in the shadow of the Almighty. He truly is our refuge and fortress, our God in whom we fully trust!
At first Aiden was being treated at St. Barnabas Hospital in Livingston. Within days his parents decided to transfer Aiden to a children’s hospital that dealt with childhood illnesses. Aiden was transferred to CHOP – The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
On Tuesday, March 24, the pathology report came back indicating that cancer had returned. Our beautiful baby boy had to once again face this horrible disease. Although our world was crumbling around us and were full of sadness, at the same time we know in whom we trust. Although we were dismayed for a moment, we know whom our God is. We know that the bigger the battle, the mightier the LION ROARS and acts! God truly strengthened Aiden and all of our family. He upheld us with his righteous right hand.
That day a whole staff of people from The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia came to transport him to their hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Aiden Alberto Duran
Within the same week that Aiden had emergency surgery to remove the tumor. He underwent a second surgery to put in a shunt in order to relieve the fluids on the brain. Shortly afterward, Aiden underwent his first round of chemotherapy. After his first round of chemotherapy, his parents decided that they had to leave behind their apartment in New Jersey, in order to be close to CHOP. Recently he underwent the first round of radiation and is currently in the hospital.
On Monday, April 13, Aiden’s blood and cell count fell and he had to be given a blood transfusion. He was admitted into the hospital since then but we know that when we call upon God’s name, he will not only acknowledge but helps us in our time of trouble. We have full confidence and faith that God will continually deliver Aiden because he is a Father of mercies and his mercies are new every single day. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies. The God of ALL comfort, whom comforts us in ALL of our afflictions and shall never leave us, nor forsake us.
We wish to thank GOD and also thank ALL whom have demonstrated their unconditional love for our beloved Aiden Duran. We wish to express how grateful we are to all who hosted a beautiful breakfast fundraiser for Aiden. Thank you Mr. Andrew Lysandrou of Parsippany. Thank you Estella Company. Thank you to the Parsippany Fire Association District 6, their Association President and all of their members.
Thank you to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Elks Lodge 2078, Mr. Doug Muroz and all of their members.
Thank you family and friends. Thank you to every single person here for your loving support! We sure appreciate all of you going the extra mile on this glorious Sunday in rallying support of our beloved Aiden. Thank you for having hosted a breakfast and we are truly grateful for your prayers, love, time, and kind support.
It seems only yesterday that our beloved nephew was taking his first steps and now he is four years old already! Aiden’s parents have had to stop working in order to be next to their precious son. Aiden’s little sister Amy Angelica is coming into this world in less than two weeks, and unfortunately the bills don‘t stop coming. This is why we are especially grateful for your support.
Your precious seed is being planted in good soil for we trust God that Aiden will serve him as a Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are certain that when Aiden is older, he will use these experiences as a testimony of God’s power and might.
We are certain that he whom began a good work in Aiden is faithful and just to complete it. Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead because God has continually been our pillar. Aiden will continue to get treatment and our family is taking a stand against Cancer and stating out loud: “Cancer, YOU DON’T have a hold on our Aiden!” AMEN!
Sheldon Dias, ADT and Remo D'Alessandro, Parsippany Police Department
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce presented a “Business Networking and Security” event at Parsippany International House of Pancakes (IHOP) on Thursday, April 23.
Patrolman Remo D’Alessandro, Community Relations Officer, Planning & Research Section, addressed the members in attendance on different divisions in the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, Crime Prevention, Shoplifting Prevention, Burglary Prevention as well as Robbery Prevention.
Sheldon Dias, ADT Security, discussed the different security features ADT can offer both residential and commercial customers.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce “Business Before Business Breakfast Meetings” are the perfect way to start your day. Join PACC for some early morning networking and learn ways to address the day-to-day challenges that businesses face. You’re sure to pick up a valuable tip or two that you can take back with you to the office to improve your bottom line.
Our next “Business Before Business Breakfast Meetings” will be held on Tuesday, May 5 at Valley National Bank, 800 Route 46, starting at 8:00 a.m. To participate in this event, click here, to make reservations.
Sheldon Dias, ADT and Remo D’Alessandro, Parsippany Police Department
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Paul Philipps with Karen DeChristopher
Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Chief Paul Philipps and Sheldon Dias, ADT Security
PARSIPPANY—Colliers International has arranged a long-term, 30,000-square-foot corporate relocation for Paychex North America Inc. at One Centennial Plaza, located at 1 Centennial Avenue in Piscataway. Paychex will relocate in fall 2015.
Paychex — a provider of payroll, human resource, and benefits outsourcing solutions for small to medium-sized businesses — will relocate from its current space to its new location in the fall, occupying a portion of the first floor of the three-story, 236,961-square-foot office building.
Located at 1 Centennial Avenue, the property has recently commenced a capital improvements program. The building features a gleaming, three-story, glass enclosed atrium, conference and training center, security desk, on-site property management, 24/7 access, a spacious full-service cafeteria, and an outdoor seating area.
“The ongoing extensive capital improvements not only re-affirm the owners’ commitment to this desirable, Class-A office building, but truly impact the New Jersey market, as tenants increasingly are looking to relocate to buildings which feature best-in-class amenities,” said Richard J. Madison, Executive Managing Director with Colliers International, who along with Associate Jack Callahan represented the landlord in the transaction. “Paychex is an ideal tenant who was already in the local market and chose to relocate to One Centennial Plaza, which justly indicates all that the building has to offer.”
Michael Maroon, of Acclaim Group, represented Paychex in the transaction.
Located at a four-way interchange off 1-287 in Piscataway, the property is in close proximity to the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, and Routes 1 and 9. In addition, the property is a short drive to Newark International Airport.
About Colliers International
Colliers International is a global leader in commercial real estate services, with more than 16,300 professionals operating out of 502 offices in 67 countries. A subsidiary of FirstService Corporation, Colliers International delivers a full range of services to real estate occupiers, owners and investors worldwide, including global corporate solutions, brokerage, property and asset management, hotel investment sales and consulting, valuation, consulting and appraisal services, mortgage banking and insightful research. Colliers International has been recognized and ranked by the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals’ Global Outsourcing 100 for 10 consecutive years, more than any other real estate services firm.
