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.
PARSIPPANY — Branford Hall Career Institute’s Parsippany campus has announced a complimentary event featuring chair massages, an art display, blood pressure testing, and computer technology demonstrations, among other informational offerings for individuals seeking to learn more about career opportunities.
This event will be held on Thursday, April 30 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Committed to the health and well-being of the North Jersey community, Branford Hall is hosting this event as a community-building and educational experience to relieve stress while allowing its students to train their new skills. Information about Branford Hall’s career-focused training programs will also be available.
Branford Hall offers career training programs in Medical Billing and Coding, Medical Assistant, Computer Networking and Security, and Graphic Design and Animation.
Branford Hall Career Institute’s Parsippany campus is located at 959 Route 46 East, on the third floor. The closest NJ Transit Bus Stop is “U.S. 46 at Beverwyck Road” on routes 874 and 79.
For more information, please contact Richard Costa at (973) 658-6838.
About Branford Hall Career Institute
Branford Hall Career Institute is an accredited vocational school with a 50-year history of providing career education for our local community. Branford Hall is committed to providing essential skills, training, and real-world experience to help our students secure employment in their fields of training. We empower students with knowledge that earns them the respect and means of rewarding self-support. For more information, call 800-959-7599 or visit www.branfordhall.edu.
PARSIPPANY — Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills has been selected to receive $250,000 in funding from the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s Fiscal Year 2015 Municipal Aid Program intended for the North Beverwyck Road Improvement Project.
The State Aid Program is one way in which the NJDOT works with county and municipal governments to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the state’s transportation system. It can provide towns with additional monies to renew their aging infrastructure.
The application was submitted in 2014 by Township Engineer, Justin Lizza.
PARSIPPANY — If you drive down Baldwin Road this afternoon and see some horses, camels and other animals they haven’t escaped from the zoo. The Parsippany PAL has two circus shows this evening. The first show is at 5:00 p.m. and the second show starts at 7:30 p.m. Adult tickets are $15.00, and you receive one child ticket free.
Walker International Events Presents five generations of circus.
The camels outside enjoying the fresh air, eating and waiting for tonight’s showThe animals for tonight’s circus have arrivedThe horse eating lunchWheelbarrows of hay for the animals.
PARSIPPANY — “Broken”, an original play written by Pastor Jeff Edwards with help from the Confirmation Adventure members will be performed on Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. at the Parsippany United Methodist Church at 903 South Beverwyck Road.
With humor, music and profundity the play presents a unique take on the meaning of the Christian faith.
In rehearsal for six months, the cast consists of the confirmation youth: Earl Christofferson, Kayla Christofferson, Ryan Christofferson, Cassie Cogan, Edward Cogan, Anna Gripp, Erika Gripp, Brendan Laux, Julia Sklow, and Kaitlyn Sklow; child cast members: Frances DiPietro, Maggie Letsch, Abby Matheis, Jake Matheis; and adult cast members: Amy Gripp, Maidie Erickson, Arlene Sklow. Greg Elbin is the musical director, Anthony DiPietro is in charge of lighting, and Anita Laux is in charge of choreography.
Admission is free; there will be a free will offering.
PARSIPPANY — On Saturday afternoon April 18 at 2:41 p.m. Ms. Alllison A. Shaffer was sitting at the traffic light in her 2012 Black Kia Optima. Ms. Elizabeth was sitting at the traffic light behind Ms. Shaffer. She was driving a 2012 Hyundai Elantra. According to police investigation, Mr. Franco Colosurano, 53, Parsippany, was traveling south on North Beverwcyk Road in a 2014 Nissan Altima, and due to driver inattenative, he crashed into the 2012 Hyundai, which in turn crashed into the 2012 Kia Optima.
There were no injuries reported. The accident was investigated by Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrolman Gian Cacioppo.
Mr. Colosurano was charged with carless driving.
The 2012 Hyundai Elantra was stopped for the light when it was hit in the rear
The 2012 Kia Optima was stopped for the traffic signal when the vehicle behind her hit her car
The County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey announces the availability of the Oscar W. Rittenhouse, Andrew K. Ruotolo, Jr., Harris Y. Cotton and the John H. Stamler Memorial Scholarships. The County Prosecutors Association of the State of New Jersey Committee, a nonprofit corporation, annually awards scholarships to law students, college and graduate students. Each scholarship is a one-year grant in the amount of up to $3,500.00 paid directly to the recipient. Scholarship recipients from previous years are ineligible.
To be eligible for the Oscar W. Rittenhouse Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school. The applicant must have an interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.
To be eligible for the Andrew K. Ruotolo, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school or graduate school. The applicant must exhibit an interest in, and commitment to, enhancing the rights and well-being of children through child advocacy programs. The applicant must also exhibit financial need.
To be eligible for the Harris Y. Cotton Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident accepted for admission to a law school. The applicant must have an interest in pursuing a career as a prosecutor with an emphasis in Domestic Violence or Hate Crime prosecutions. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.
To be eligible for the John H. Stamler Memorial Scholarship, an applicant must be a New Jersey resident and sworn law enforcement officer seeking educational advancement on a college or graduate level to improve his or her effectiveness as a law enforcement officer. The applicant must also demonstrate financial need.
Applications must be postmarked by July 15, 2015. Personal interviews of finalists will be conducted. Applicants will be notified of the Committee’s decision in October, 2015. Anyone interested in receiving an application can download by clicking here.
PARSIPPANY — Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child senior Elizabeth Ocker ’15, of Parsippany, was among 13 students inducted into the Oak Knoll Chapter of the Cum Laude Society Tuesday, April 21, before fellow students, faculty, staff and parents.
The Cum Laude Society recognizes academic achievement in secondary schools for the purpose of promoting excellence, justice and honor. Oak Knoll students inducted into the society were part of the top 10 percent of their class.
Seniors who were inducted in addition to Elizabeth are Shaneena Alabado ’15, of Orange; Nicole Baiocco ’15, of New Vernon; Natalie Hench ’15, of Ridgewood; Gabriella Leuthner ’15, of Summit; Margaret Magovern ’15, of Summit; and Courtney Schroeder ’15, of Ridgewood.
Juniors who were inducted include Tara Halter ’16, of Springfield; Grace Jagoe ‘16, of Chatham; Margaret Mumma ’16, of Summit; Audrey Picut ’16, of Warren; Valerie Ricciardi ’16, of New Vernon; and Safia Speer ’16, of Mountain Lakes.
Kaitlin Schroeder ’15, of Summit, was also named the class valedictorian; and Sabrina Solow ’15, of Madison, was named the class salutatorian.
Four of the seniors honored are called “lifers” at Oak Knoll, which means they inherited their educational foundation from Oak Knoll’s coed elementary school. Gabriella Leuthner, Margaret Magovern, Kaitlin Schroeder and Sabrina Solow are Oak Knoll lifers.
Before Tuesday’s ceremony, Head of School Timothy J. Saburn told a story about his own academic journey, instilling in students the importance of following one’s academic dreams and goals.
“Set your sights on that goal and don’t defer,” he said.
Alumna Jeannie Cambria ’05 shared a reflection after the ceremony, talking about her successes in the working world as a marketing and communications manager at technology company SiteCompli.
“There are skills you will learn as you work in ‘real’ jobs — things like being flexible in a fast-paced environment, delegating to other team members, voicing feedback to higher-ups — and those all come in due time,” she said. “But the challenge that Oak Knoll has posed to you in your time here — to be a better thinker and a better person — this will take you so far, that you’ll be amazed later in life, I promise you.”
Cambria credited Oak Knoll for instilling in her an intellectual curiosity.
“Having a better sense of self and a better sense of others. I credit my parents and the Oak Knoll community of leaders, teachers and classmates for fostering these values within me, and for carrying it on with every class who came after me,” she said.
Today you have distinguished yourselves as scholars and as leaders among your classmates — congratulations again,” Cambria said.
Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child is an independent, Catholic school, coeducational in elementary school from kindergarten through grade six; and all-girls in middle and high school from grades seven through 12. There is no religious affiliation associated with our summer programs. For more information about Oak Knoll, please visit www.oakknoll.org or call (908) 522-8109.
