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Authorities Update Community on Investigation at Saint Elizabeth

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Morris Township Police Chief Robert Shearer, Madison Police Chief John Miscia, Florham Park Police Chief Joseph Orlando, and Saint Elizabeth University President Gary Crosby confirmed an investigation into a reported threat that prompted a lockdown on Tuesday, April 4 had identified no suspects.

At about 10:30 a.m., the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office was notified that a bystander walking at the Saint Elizabeth University campus and near Convent Station encountered a man who had threatened violence and was potentially armed. The bystander reported the incident to the authorities. 

As a precaution, Saint Elizabeth University was placed into lockdown.

The initial Morris Township Patrol Units, later joined by responding officers from theProsecutor’s Office, Sheriff’s Office, and additional mutual aid from surrounding municipal police departments, secured the scene.

Following a thorough response, which included a building-by-building response, investigative efforts did not identify a subject as described.

Once the campus was cleared by law enforcement, the lockdown was later lifted at 3:30 p.m.

Contrary to social media reports, there is no confirmation of a subject possessing a firearm.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Township Clerk Khaled Madin, NJ Kiwanis Lt. Governor Division 9 Frank Cahill, Karen DeChristopher, Mayor James Barberio, Council President Loretta Gragnani, Councilman Justin Musella, Council Vice President Michael dePierro and Councilman Frank Neglia in front of the Pinwheel display at Parsippany Municipal Building

PARSIPPANY  — April 1 is the start of Child Abuse Prevention Month. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany started the campaign by setting up pinwheel gardens and displays, with the first at the Parsippany Town Hall. Followed by several other displays around town to help raise awareness in our community by turning your attention to the importance of ensuring great childhoods for all children because our children are our future.  In addition, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio will be issuing a Proclamation at the Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 4, designating April as “Child Abuse Prevention Month.”

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio presents Karen DeChristopher, Kiwanis Director of “Young Children Priority One,” with a proclamation designating April as “Child Abuse Prevention Month.”
 

While Child Abuse Prevention Month is underway, Kiwanis highlight the importance of ensuring great childhoods for all children because our children are our future.  The theme of the 2023 campaign is “Growing a Better Tomorrow for All Children, Together.”  The community garden metaphor reinforces the message that “Every day, we help families and children thrive.”

All throughout April, you will see pinwheels on display around the Parsippany and Lake Hiawatha areas as the symbol of this very thought…that all children deserve a great childhood because they are our future.  

And while the pinwheel can do many things — bring smiles, lift spirits, call for healthy starts for all children — the one thing it cannot do is move on its own.  Be the force that makes it move, bringing about real change for children in the United States.  Protecting our children is everyone’s job…it’s your turn to make a difference!  

Since 1983, April has been a time to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse.  As we look upon the faces of the many children in our communities and think about all of the children worldwide that suffer at the hands of others, let’s remember that April may be child abuse prevention month, but unfortunately, abuse happens every day.  That is why every year, during April, communities across the country come together to focus on this startling issue and the need for widespread prevention and public awareness campaigns to reduce the number of children who are abuse victims.  Sadly, there were 3.6 million cases of child abuse reported in the US.  Approximately five children a day die every year in the US due to child abuse or neglect.  Out of those 1825 children that died as a result of abuse or neglect, 45% are younger than one year old, 31% are from ages 1-3, 11% are 4-7, 6% are ages 8-11, 5% ages 12-15 and 2% are aged 16-17.

Karen DeChristopher, Kiwanis Director of “Young Children Priority One” programs, said, “As an organization that continues to focus on children, there is one goal that we are looking to achieve…to raise awareness of the many ways people can get involved in the fight against child abuse:  First, we can get educated, so you can learn to recognize the signs of child abuse, so you can be that one person with the courage to step up for these children and report abuse when you suspect it.  Secondly, you can volunteer or support your child advocacy centers (Prevent Child Abuse-NJ) by calling to determine how you can support them because every children’s advocacy center can benefit from your support for the programs and services they provide to child victims of abuse and neglect.  And lastly, but most importantly, we must help break the silence surrounding child abuse by raising awareness and spreading the word.  These children deserve a voice because this problem has been overlooked for far too long, and you can open the doors to this crime of secrecy because we can all make a difference for these children.

To learn more about what you can do to help prevent child abuse, contact Pamela Stalcup, Director of Development & Communications for Prevent Child Abuse-New Jersey, at (732) 246-8060 or visit them on the web at www.preventchildabusenj.org. 

Olivia Santana, Ava Arthurs, Lydia Yu, and Aurora Santana holding pinwheels at Parsippany-Troy Hills Town Hall

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Agenda Meeting – April 4, 2023

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Councilman Justin Musella, Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Council President Loretta Gragnani, Council Vice President Michael dePierro and Councilman Frank Neglia

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Agenda Meeting will be held on April 4, 2023.

Regular Township Council Meetings will commence at 7:00 p.m. All meetings will be held on Tuesday evenings. Council meetings are held at Parsippany Municipal Building, 1001 Parsippany Boulevard. Formal action may or may not be taken at all scheduled meetings.

Click here to download the agenda.

Any individual who is a qualified disabled person under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request auxiliary aids such as a sign interpreter or a tape recorder to be used for a meeting. Auxiliary aids must be requested at least 72 hours before the meeting date. Please call (973) 263-4351 to request auxiliary aid.

Click here to download the 2023 agenda schedule.

Mayor and Council

Mayor James R Barberio
Council President Loretta Gragnani
Council Vice-President Michael J. dePierro
Councilman Paul Carifi Jr.
Councilman Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella

Troop 72: Serves Parsippany in Many Ways

By
Christine Mercado
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Troop 72

PARSIPPANY — Scouts BSA is an amazing way for kids and teenagers to learn skills for the real world, like responsibility, cooking, interview skills, organizational skills, outdoor survival skills, and much more. Luckily Parsippany has had its troop in town for almost 70 years, Troop 72. The troop welcomes both boys and girls from Parsippany and surrounding towns. Troop 72 has helped serve our town in many ways, like trash clean-ups, food drives, and, most recently, working with Liquid Church to pack meals for Rise Against Hunger.

Along with the life skills that you learn, you also earn merit badges. Merit badges are awards earned by youth in the troop based on activities within the study area by completing a list of periodically updated requirements. Some of the different merit badges you can earn are Communications, Citizenship in Society, Citizenship in the Community, Cooking, Fingerprinting, Rifle Shooting, Art, Photography, Genealogy, and a lot more. When you complete the merit badge that you have chosen, you earn the badge at your troops’ next Court of Honor. A Court of Honor is a ceremony where the scouts in the troop earn the ranks that they have finished, any merit badge that they have finished, and any other award that they might have earned. There are seven ranks in the Scouts BSA. The first is Scout Rank and the seventh is Eagle Rank.

There are so many amazing parts to scouts, so I could not choose just one thing that is my favorite part of Scouts BSA, but I narrowed it down to my three favorite parts of Scouts BSA are the memories you make, the skills that you learn, and the friends that you make.

Parsippany’s own Troop 72 will have an open house on April 12, 2023. We will have a lot of activities that will show you just a little bit of all the amazing things you do in Scouts BSA. The open house will be in the back of All Saints Academy in the Cafeteria at 7:00 p.m.


Two Parsippany Men Arrested For Conspiracy and Larceny

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Nikit S. Yadav, 22, and Raj Vipul Patel, 21

PARSIPPANY — Two men from Parsippany are accused of trying to steal $109,000 from an elderly Yarmouth, Massachusetts, woman in a computer virus scam.

Yarmouth police said it started on Friday, March 24,  when the 78-year-old woman called a tech support number about a problem with her computer.

Investigators said Nikit Yadav, 22, and Raj Vipul Patel, 21 demanded money to remove “unwanted items from her computer.”

When the two men went to her house Monday evening to collect the money, they were arrested, police said.

The men are charged with conspiracy and larceny over $1,200 by false pretense.

According to police, they were held overnight at the Yarmouth Police Department before being transferred to court for arraignment on Wednesday.

The investigation is still ongoing. Anyone with information about Yadav and Patel is asked to contact Yarmouth police at (508) 775-0445.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Parsippany Hills High School Visits France

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Hills High School takes us on a journey to France as we wrap up our Flavors Around the World promotion. The French Club helped us brush up on our French as we dined on popular French cuisine.

Pool Tables Now Open at the Senior Center

By
Frank L. Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Senior Community Center pool tables are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The center is available to all Parsippany senior citizens at 1130 Knoll Road, Lake Hiawatha.

There is no joining fee to the center, so come by for a visit to shoot a game or two. If you want to play more frequently, a $2.00 annual fee is all that is requested.

Call Parsippany Office on Aging at (973) 263-7351.

Unaffiliated Voters: Primary Election Law Change

By
Frank L. Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — Residents of Morris County should be aware of a recent election law change regarding unaffiliated voters.

The change in law, N.J.S.A 19:23-45, states that unaffiliated voters who automatically receive a mail-in ballot for all future elections will not receive a mail-in ballot for the Primary Election. Voters must affiliate themselves with either the Democratic or Republican Party, stated the clerk’s office.

The deadline to declare a party, Democratic or Republican, is Wednesday, April 12.

The letter sent to all unaffiliated voters:

NOTICE TO UNAFFILIATED VOTERS

You are receiving this notice because you have been identified as an unaffiliated voter, meaning a voter who is not affiliated with any political party, has requested a mail-in ballot, or is listed as receiving mail-in ballots for all future elections. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:23-45, an unaffiliated voter shall not receive a mail-in ballot for a Primary Election unless that voter declares a political party affiliation. To vote in the Primary Election of the Democratic or Republican Party by mail-in ballot, you must be affiliated with either the Democratic or Republican Party and not remain an unaffiliated voter.

To receive a mail-in ballot for the 2023 Primary Election, please declare your affiliation with either the Democratic or Republican Party by completing, signing, and returning the enclosed political party affiliation declaration form found on the other side of this letter to the Board of Elections County Commissioner of Registration or your Municipal Clerk. The political party affiliation declaration form must be completed and returned by April 12, 2023, to receive a mail-in ballot for the Primary Election. If you do not declare a party by April 12, 2023, you will not receive a mail-in ballot and will remain unaffiliated.

Finally, please be advised that an unaffiliated voter may still vote in a Primary Election by voting in person during the Early Voting period or on Election Day for either the Democratic or Republican Party. After an unaffiliated voter votes in-person in the Democratic or Republican Party Primary Election, the voter will be affiliated with that political party.

The completed form can be returned to us via:

Online: www.voter.svrs.nj.gov/register

Email: elections@co.morris.nj.us

Fax: 973-285-5208

Mail: Morris County Board of Elections PO Box 900 Morristown, NJ 07963-0900

In Person: Morris County Board of Elections Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; 10 Court Street – 2nd Floor Morristown, NJ 07960

For questions, call (973) 285-6715.

Murphy Signs Legislation to Support New Jersey Small Businesses

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Governor Phil Murphy

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy signed three bills into law to support New Jersey small businesses.

“Today, we underscore once again that economic opportunity is abundant and accessible in New Jersey, especially for the small businesses that line our main streets and undergird our local communities,” said Governor Murphy. “I thank Assembly Speaker Coughlin for leading the preparation of this comprehensive bill package, which will ensure that we continue to respond to the needs and concerns of small business owners as effectively as possible. This legislation will enable us to attract, retain, and inspire small businesses to expand in a state at the national forefront of economic vitality and innovation.” 

The bills A-4748/S-3195 and A-4749/S-3204 enhance the customer service experience at the New Jersey Business Action Center by establishing a publicly available small business manual and collecting and disseminating customer assistance metrics and information, respectively.

Bill A-4753/S-3208 allows a cure period for businesses to address and resolve certain violations.

Together, these bills will make life easier for small business owners while bolstering New Jersey’s standing as an attractive place for starting and growing a business, said the governor’s office.

“The Business Action Center exists to help New Jersey companies navigate how state government rules and resources impact their operations,” said the Secretary of State Tahesha Way. “This legislation strengthens the Business Action Center and ensures that it is responsive to the needs of our constituents.” 

“For small business owners, the fines associated with minor violations can be a significant setback,” said Assemblyman Roy Freiman. “By allowing businesses to fix harmless mistakes without being subjected to penalties, we commit to creating an environment that attracts new businesses to our State and allows those already here to prosper.”

Art Competition Announced by Representative Sherrill’s Office

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill

PARSIPPANY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) announced the launch of her fifth annual Congressional Art Competition for NJ-11 students. The competition allows high school students to showcase their creativity and artistic expression. 

“New Jersey’s 11th District is home to so many incredible young artists,” said Rep. Sherrill. “Each year, I am impressed with all of our students’ submissions. The Congressional Art Competition is a great way to come together to celebrate their hard work. I look forward to seeing the artwork and encourage each high school to participate.”

Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent nationwide and in each congressional district. Since the competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated. Students submit entries to their representative’s office, and panel judges select the winning entries. The winner’s artwork will be displayed alongside winners from nationwide for one year in the U.S. Capitol.

Artwork submitted for NJ-11’s competition will be displayed at an art show and reception at Montclair State University on May 4. The winner will be announced at this reception.

Due to limitations of gallery space, NJ-11 high schools can select up to two students’ work to submit, and their art must be dropped off at Rep. Sherrill’s District Office. The deadline to submit is April 21. Rep. Sherrill’s office is 8 Wood Hollow Road, Parsippany, NJ, 07054. Click here to view the full guidelines and information about the Congressional Art Competition. 

Contested Republican Primary in Parsippany

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Adam Kandil, incumbent Paul Carifi, Jr., and Matthew McGrath are running as a team for Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Township

PARSIPPANY  — Five candidates petitioned to compete in the Republican primary for Township Council on Tuesday, June 6. The deadline to file petitions with Khaled Madin, Municipal Clerk, was Monday, March 27. There are three Council seats up for grabs.

Team Carifi consists of current Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., and his running mates Adam Kandil and Matthew McGrath, who will be on the Regular Republican Organization line on the ballot. This is the first time that Kandil and McGrath are running for political office.

Lake Parsippany resident Danny Desai filed his petition to compete for a seat on Parsippany-Troy Hills Council.
Council Candidate and Former Board of Education member Gary Martin

Former Board of Education member Gary Martin and Lake Parsippany resident Danny Desai also submitted petitions. This is the first time Desai is running for public office. Martin lost the election in 2021 to current Councilman Frank Neglia.

Bernard Clarkin, Judy Hernandez, and Matt Kavanagh

The three Republican winners in the Primary will compete in the General Election on Tuesday, November 7, with three democrats. On Monday, three Democrats filed a petition: Judy Hernandez, Bernard Clarkin, and Matt Kavanagh.

The winners in the General Election will join Councilman Frank Neglia and Councilman Justin Musella, serving their second year of a four-year term on the Council.

Fellow Republican incumbents Michael dePierro and Loretta Gragnani previously declared they would not run for re-election.

In addition to local elections, the Board of Commissioners and County Clerk will have competition during the primary.

Current County Clerk Ann F. Grossi will be challenged in the primary by Rockaway resident Andrew Agliata. The primary winner will be challenged in the General Election by Democrat Caroline (Carrie) O’Brien. O’Brien is a Towaco resident.

Current County Commissioner Tayfun Selen is being challenged in the Republican Primary by Pine Brook resident Paul DeGroot and Parsippany resident Robert Snyder. The winner in the Primary race will then face off in the General Election with Democrat Jonathan Sackett, a Rockaway resident.

Parsippany residents BettyLou DeCroce and Robert Peluso is running against current Assemblymen Jay Webber and Brian Bergen for the Assembly race.

Grants Offered to Local Citizen’s Groups in Highlands Region

By
Frank L. Cahill
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New Jersey Highlands Coalition Staff

MORRIS COUNTY — The New Jersey Highlands Coalition announced the availability of grants of up to $5,000 for local citizens’ groups fighting to protect the natural or cultural resources of the Highlands.

Past funding has supported groups opposing unwise development proposals such as million-square-foot warehouses on prime farmland or trying to prevent the logging of large trees in maturing forests that store atmospheric carbon and serve as the best defense against climate change.

Applications for the 2023 Small Grants Program must be received by June 1.

Grants will be presented on Oct. 11 at the N.J. Highlands Coalition’s 2023 Annual Meeting.

“Our Small Grants Program is one of the unique strengths of the Highlands Coalition,” said Julia Somers, executive director. “We work at the state and regional levels, but most members of our coalition are from local grassroots groups who are in touch with breaking issues in their communities. They’re our early warning system.”

The grants can also go to historical projects that include “brick-and-mortar” projects for specific historic sites or districts. This is the seventeenth year of the Coalition’s Small Grants Program for environmental projects and the ninth year for projects that protect cultural, historical, and archaeological resources in the Highlands, an important part of the Highlands Regional Master Plan.

Grassroots organizations are non-governmental organizations with a total annual operating budget of less than $200,000. The organization doesn’t need to be incorporated. To be eligible to apply for a grant, an organization must become a member of the Coalition, but dues are as low as $20 a year. Grants from the Highlands Coalition cannot be used for political purposes.

A grassroots group may apply for one or more grants, either environmental, cultural or components of both. But the total amount requested by any organization cannot exceed $5,000.

Projects covered by the grant should meet at least one of the following five criteria, with the items at the top getting more weight than those below:

1. Projects that focus on developing a stronger Highlands Regional Master Plan (RMP) and/or implementation of the RMP. For example, projects that identify, map, or verify mapped Highlands natural or cultural resources or monitor the implementation of RMP standards at the local level; projects that advocate for and result in municipal conformance with the RMP;

2. Projects that would establish a precedent, advancing strong environmental or cultural protection in the Highlands. For example, hiring a consultant to help achieve the most environmentally protective decision by NJDEP, the Highlands Council, or other regulatory bodies on a Highlands matter or for meeting local affordable housing needs;

3. Projects that may not help set a precedent but would assist an organization in to fight against development in the Highlands Region – such as residential, commercial, agribusiness projects, etc. – that seriously threatens or damages natural or cultural resources in the Region;

4. Projects that support capacity building of Highlands Region grassroots organizations, for example, a membership mailing, a strategic planning exercise, a workshop, conference or public educational event, etc.;

5. Projects that educate about Highlands water and resources and/or increase public awareness of the use and conservation of Highlands water.

Applicants are advised to view the full guidelines for the program on the Coalition’s website, particularly for cultural and historic grant components with very detailed requirements. Go to www.njhighlandscoalition.org/small-grants for more information. To join the Coalition, place click “Donate,” check “Make this gift on behalf of an organization,” and join with your $20 (non-voting) or $30 (voting) membership contribution.

Applicants seeking more information are encouraged to contact Julia Somers at (973) 588-7190 or julia@njhighlandscoalition.org.

The New Jersey Highlands Coalition represents a diverse network of organizations working to protect the Highlands, ranging from small citizen groups working in one community to large state-wide organizations. The Coalition works to protect, enhance and restore the New Jersey Highlands and to preserve the quality and quantity of the region’s drinking water upon which 6.2 million people depend. More information is available at www.njhighlandscoalition.org.

STEAM Poster Competition

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Honorable Mr. James Barberio, Honorable Mr. Frank Cahill, Arjun Jadhav, Rishith Bhoopathi, Raayan Bodade, Bhavish Yallanki, Harika Dinesh, Krisha Movalia, Kiernan Raye Stafford, Azaan Shafi, Ellie Stafford, Julia Bonfanti, Varun Shankar Mutukulloju, William Bonfanti, Ayaan Pasha, Ruthvik Allikayala, Aarambh Bharat Rathi, Tvisha Singh, Aadya Yadav, Adhavan Manikandan, Aniketh Chidella, Anika Rajput, Ujwel Potluri, Aarvy Patel, Saloni Rana, Janessa Nitya, Aarush Malvania, Shaurya Parmar, Shaurya Padsalgikar, Myra Kothare, Aarohi Vemula, Manogna Darshan, Kahaan Shah, Saarth Grover, Shanaya Grover, Olivia Isabella Haeupl-Latorre, Divyam Shah, Aarjun Bodade, and 3 more students.

PARSIPPANY — The Human Robotics non-profit organization, in partnership with STEM NJ Pathways, recently hosted a STEAM poster competition in Parsippany on March 25. The event featured 38 elementary and middle school students displaying their posters on various topics ranging from green energy, how technology works, save the earth to nuclear fission.

Over 80 people attended the event. The young participants were given a platform to present their posters for one minute, during which they shared their ideas and concepts with the audience.

The Guests of honor were the Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor, Mr. James Barberio, and Kiwanis Lt. Governor, Mr. Frank Cahill.

Mr. Barberio spoke highly of promoting STEAM education and encouraging youth to create a sustainable future actively. Mr. Cahill also commended the kids for their excellent work and highlighted the importance of such events to create awareness and encourage sustainability.

Human Robotics team Volunteers: Youth volunteers – Arjun Jadhav, William Bonfanti, Rishith Bhoopathi, Tvisha Singh, Varun Shankar, Aarjun Bodade, Raayan Bodade. Adult volunteers – Vivek Jadhav, Swati Jadhav, Jill Bonfanti, Peter Bonfanti, Satish Bhoopathi, Rajni Bhoopathi, Vinod Singh, Bhavana Singh, Bhanu Prakash Mutukulloju, Lakshmi Mutukulloju, Nilesh Bodade, and Meg Bodade.

The event was hosted by a Parsippany High School student, and Human Robotics lead volunteer, Aarjun Bodade. The addition of trivia questions during the poster presentation was a hit with the kids and adults, and they learned more about science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.

The judges for the competition, Dave Reagan and Joseph Cistaro, were impressed with all the student’s work and ideas and had difficulty deciding on the top three posters. Eventually, the top three posters were awarded to Krisha Movalia, Tvisha Singh, and Raayan Bodade.

The event also featured seven talented musicians from the Allegro Music School, who
performed an outstanding violin performance to honor the art in STEAM. The organization
thanked Ms. Debra Seftel, director of Allegro music school, and her students for their performance.

Violin performance by Allegro Music School. Director – Debra Seftel, Students – Ellie Stafford, Aarohi Vemula, Raayan Bodade, Harika Dinesh, Manogna Darshan, and one student.

Representatives from the Parsippany High School robotics team and coach Ms. Kathleen Effner, the lead Math teacher, also attended the event. The Redbots and Techhawks Robotics team members talked about the robotics programs offered by Parsippany High School and encouraged the kids to learn more about robotics.


The STEAM poster competition was a great success and is a testament to parents, volunteers, and educators’ role in developing kids’ skills and abilities in science,
technology, engineering, arts, and math. The organization hopes to continue this tradition, encourage more students to participate in such events, and help the kids showcase the
potential of the youth to create innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing problems.

In addition, the non-profit organization is now accepting tax-exempt donations and looking for potential sponsors. Your donations will help conduct more events and volunteer work to impact young minds positively. They appreciate any amount you can give. Please click here for more information.

The success of the STEAM poster competition was made possible by the dedication and hard work of both young and old Human Robotics volunteers. The event provided an opportunity to give back to the community and inspired several parents to inquire about the volunteering program. Human Robotics is committed to continuing its efforts to promote volunteerism by giving back to the community and promoting STEAM education, leadership, and selflessness. The Human Robotics Non-profit plans to organize more volunteering activities this year, allowing children to learn from peers and positively impact their community.

Top Poster award: Krisha Movalia and the event host Aarjun Bodade, Mayor James Barberio, and Frank Cahill
Top poster award: Raayan Bodade and the event host Aarjun Bodade, Mayor James Barberio, and Frank Cahill
Top poster award: Tvisha Singh, Mayor James Barberio, and Frank Cahill
Parsippany High school robotics teams – Redbots & Techawks. Robotics coach and lead math teacher- Mrs. Kathleen Effner, Redbots team captain – Aarjun Bodade, Techhawks team captain – Stevanie.

Parsippany Rescue and Recovery and Rockaway Neck Ambulance Held Installation Dinner

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Mayor James Barberio administers the Oath of Office to members of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery and Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance members

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Rescue and Recovery with Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance recently held its Installation Dinner at Hanover Manor. Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio administered the “Oath of Office” to all the members.

The 2023 officers are Paul Anderson, Chief; Andrew Ludwig, Deputy Chief; Jake Beg, Captain; Josh Levine, Lieutenant; Alexis Bota, Lieutenant; and John Bota, Dive Coordinator.

In addition, the Executive Board consists of Billy Sanford, President; John Walsh, Vice President; Rafael Ortiz, Secretary; Andrew Ludwig, Treasurer; and Nick Limanov, Sergeant At Arms.

Parsippany Rescue and Recovery is a 100% volunteer rescue department with an active membership roll of 25 fully trained first responders and heavy rescue. We operate out of two strategically placed stations in town, allowing for the quickest response time.

The Unit has been serving the town since 1960 and provides heavy rescue, vehicle extrication, dive rescue/recovery, confined space rescue, elevator entrapment, downed tree and limb removal, board ups, pump outs, emergency power generation, lighting, and special services to its residents.

They provide mutual aid to our town’s six fire departments, two ambulance squads, and one EMS. In addition, the Unit assists the fire departments and rescue squads of Denville, Mountain Lakes, Randolph, Morris Township, Morris Plains, Morristown, Hanover, East Hanover, Boonton, Montville, Fairfield, as well as any other requests from any other municipalities in the New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania area.

The squad had a confined space team, providing pump-outs and board-ups after fire or theft.

President Billy Sanford and his wife, Vasila.
Paul Anderson, Dan Morgan, and Josh Levine
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Frank Neglia, Bill Sanford, Joe Jannarone, Morris County Commissioner Tom Mastraangelo with Mayor James Barberio.
Nicola and Louis Yuliano
Parsippany Rescue and Recovery
Mr. and Mrs. Limanov Nicolas, Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, and Morris County Commissioner Tom Mastrangelo.

For more information on Parsippany Rescue and Recovery, click here. If you would like to volunteer, click here for a membership application.

Letter to the Editor: Leaf-Blowers Are the Bad

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Letters to the Editor
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Dear Editor:

The good is bad we don’t do. The rake needed no improvements; how has a leaf blower improved our lives?

As of the last few months, an attempt to bring the annoyance, pollution, and degradation of the quality of life and sense of community by leaf-blowers to the Council has been ignored. Councilman Musella stated to me “privately” he could never support such a Resolution to phase out leaf-blowers for better alternatives available. The better being battery-powered rather than 2-cycle black-carbon polluting and noise-making in excessive 90-100 decibels.

At the last Council meeting, Councilman Justin Musella had to have his own words back in his mouth; “He could never support such a resolution because it was government interfering with business.” It is ok for businesses to interfere with our health, well-being, privacy, and sense of community. He says he is for the community; what he means in his rhetoric is he cares and supports business over the community, no matter the impacts or outcome.

Sensible Human-beings are not perfectionists but Meliorists. They believe in trying or making things better by putting things right and improving them when they do not work well enough.

Some things have to be the best they can be; Medical procedures, airline journeys, and maintaining the security of bank accounts; because of what is at stake.

Here with the lawn industry, the stakes are Human Health and well-being, a sense of community violated, disturbing the peace, invasion of privacy through the noise and air pollution, and continuing anti-ecological industry that does more harm than good in quality of life and ecological sense. Why would a person or a Council be against such a Resolution supporting such proposed legislation as A6238 or S4273?

In close-quarter neighborhoods like Lake Hiawatha, and many suburban places, these blowers are especially offensive, other factors like acoustic properties of home locations. The randomness of one blower being used (after enduring mower noise) and then another, from another property, at another period leaves peace and quite near impossible for long, arbitrary on any given day. (During the recent past summer drought, when grass shuts-down it, growth landscapers were cutting the lawns as usual, despite the lack of ecological sense or need, for their fees).

Even in areas like Parks and Natural Areas, Pyramid Mountain, Wildcat Ridge, and others, the setting is disturbed by these noise creators and air pollution devices.

Many towns and places have finally come to the limits of tolerance in realizing the obvious negative impacts of this unhealthy intrusive industry. The Green here is the money, not any sense or science of ecology. To reject a resolution to improve an industry through available new and better tools is merely a slap in the face of the community and environmental health in favor of business or the common good.

 I am pro-free market which has, for the better part of human history, always improved the lives of all people. Competition makes us better. Justin Musella.

Nothing can be further from the truth. Competition wastes energy and resources and has not been the catalyst for better human cooperation, or we would never have gotten this far.  Progress is another word for pollution and has improved the lives of some, not most. At present, our economy exists outside the laws of nature. It is unsustainable and promotes endless growth, an impossibility. The competition also leads to a monopoly as one puts the other out of business. Free Market is also an illusion and a deception.

Never in the history of democratic societies has the populace been more removed from the decision-making process than it is today. Our Collective Global future is being made behind closed doors by trade representatives-appointed officials with the blessing of amorphous, transnational corporations. Our Constitution has been hijacked and keeps proving it’s a flawed document; “we the people matter little,” as does science or ecological sustainability. Above all, corporations’ rights and profits are responsible for the present demise of the Republic and any hope of democracy or equitable justice.

Lawn culture is a self-centered anti-community annoyance we are made to suffer, as it encourages life in a vacuum as if no one else exists at the time, and that the impacts of air pollution, noise pollution, and injury to mother earth are sanctioned somehow by private property and individual rights, which puts private property opposed to community and environment itself!

No economic interest should ever be placed above the reverence for life, but that is what we have in a free market. The recent train wreck resulted in free market deregulation, as its cargo of Vinyl chloride is used to make even more plastics, not less has spread harm and sickness; as we see the plastics about us everywhere, that citizens is the free market, making our lives better? Not only is vinyl chloride used in plastic production, it also requires mercury. Cancer, one would suppose, is spread by free-market products made with vinyl chloride and mercury.

The opposite side of progress is pollution from man-made chemicals that don’t exist in nature. The pollution outcome of progress has long ago brought an unsustainable scale of waste, which costs and affects us, not the corporate efficient cause that produces it; they pass off the negative to others, which is another free-market downside. Plastics are the most obvious example of free market delusions of the outcome.

Free Markets are the opposite of free people, and the sanction of corporations are people or better and above people. Free Market is the economy not serving people, but people the economy, a return to the plantation model of the master-slave paradigm.

It appears our present town council is a Chamber of Commerce on steroids. If you are not in business or a Fortune 500, you don’t count. The council has no checks or balances against this. Not supporting this resolution concerning progress in better lawn equipment, specifically leaf-blowers, is shameful.

Nicholas Homyak
Lake Hiawatha

Thor Needs Your Help!

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Thor needs your help!

PARSIPPANY — Thor is a 4-year-old German Shepherd therapy dog raised by Lisa and Steven Klink since birth. Lisa is a special education teacher at Schuyler Colfax Middle School in Wayne. Thor was trained to be a Seeing Eye dog, but that was not his true destiny. Thor was just too social and not quite a match for the Seeing Eye, so the Klinks decided to adopt him. Lisa helped Thor to obtain his therapy dog certificate through Bright and Beautiful, where he passed with flying colors.

Since then, he has spent his Fridays with his family at Schuyler Colfax.

Becoming a Certified Therapy Dog was Thor’s destiny. His gentle and patient demeanor makes everyone fall in love with him. He is always happy to be at school, with his tail-wagging, making sure he visits all his friends (and, of course, getting lots of treats!). He loves getting brushed, having the students read to him, playing ball in the gym, and listening to classroom lessons while his mommy teaches. Thor makes everyone happy and relieves stress for both the students and staff.

Thor has helped many people over the years and needs our help. He was recently diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease and is experiencing partial paralysis that needs to be evaluated by a veterinary neurologist. He will need intensive care, treatment, and surgery. Thor is an incredibly special dog who needs our love and support to help him and his family in their time of need. Please consider helping our sweet Thorkins so he can continue to bring love, joy, and happiness to all that know him.

Recently, an MRI showed Thor’s issue was a ruptured disc, so he went into emergency surgery that night! This was great news because the surgery success rate for this procedure was very high, but it required a longer hospitalization for Thor. The Klinks brought our Thor home today, and he already can put 50% weight on the back legs, but apparently, he wants FOOD to do the work. His paws are in the right place to walk, and he even started wagging his tail again! Unfortunately, the final bill was over the original estimate, which doesn’t even include his medicines, aqua therapy, or PT. He will need to learn to walk again. Please continue to show your love and support by donating.

A very special shoutout to Thor’s vet, Dr. Elizabeth Boggier, at Mountain View Vet in Rockaway, and Dr. Katherine Crook at Eclipse Pet Care in Whippany, who performed the surgery.

Click here to see updates about Thor and to make a donation.

Easter Bunny Made a Surprise Visit in Parsippany

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Five year old twins, Joe and Derek Imbriaco sit on the lap of the Easter Bunny

PARSIPPANY — The Easter Bunny arrived in Parsippany on Saturday, March 25.

He visited Town Hall, and children of all ages came to say “hi,” give a high five or hug the Easter Bunny.

The recreation staff takes a break from handing out candy to the children

Recreation staff helped the Easter Bunny hand out chocolate bunnies, coloring books, and treats.

Mayor Barberio enjoyed seeing how happy the children were to meet the Easter Bunny and said, “We know spring can’t be far off when the Easter Bunny arrives!”

Easter is celebrated on Sunday, April 9, 2023.

Councilman Frank Neglia and Mayor James Barberio visit the Easter Bunny

Carter, 8, and Liam, 2, Malson visit the Easter Bunny

Two Students Arrested Following Incident at Morris Knolls High School

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Morris Knolls High School is a four-year comprehensive public high school serving students in ninth through twelfth grades from Denville Township and most of Rockaway Township in Morris County.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Denville Police Chief Frank Perna confirmed the arrest of two students following an incident at Morris Knolls High School on Thursday, March 23.

On Thursday, Denville Police Department responded to Morris Knolls High School after receiving a report that school staff discovered two students possessing a gun. The department’s School Resource Officer and other responding officers arrived quickly.  The involved students were already identified and secured by school staff, as was the weapon, by the time officers arrived.  The two juveniles involved were arrested and charged with the unlawful possession of a weapon and related charges. Since this matter involves juveniles, no further information will be released.

There was no active threat to the school, staff, or students, and the matter remains under investigation.

“This afternoon, the Morris Knolls Administration discovered a weapon on campus. The weapon and those responsible were immediately secured, and there was never an active threat to students or staff. Our onsite School Resource Officer and other officers from the Denville Police Department immediately responded and took custody of the weapon and the involved parties. We assure you that this matter was dealt with swiftly and that the students and staff were not in danger. As this is an active police investigation, we cannot provide further details. The safety of our students and staff is our top priority. We will continue to work closely with the Denville Police Department to ensure a safe learning environment for our school community,” said Ryan MacNaughton, Principal of Morris Knolls High School

All Denville schools’ safety and security are paramount to the Denville Police Department.  There is no ongoing activity or suspected threat to the school, staff, or students related to this incident.  However, the Denville Police will have an increased presence at the school over the next few days to help alleviate any fears or concerns.

Prosecutor Robert Carroll thanks the Morris Knolls administration and staff for their actions and cooperation in identifying and quickly resolving this incident.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Parsippany Police is Attempting to Locate Driver of Vehicle

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Police Department is attempting to locate the driver of the vehicle

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Police Department is attempting to locate the driver of the above-pictured vehicle.

Earlier this morning, a silver, four-door sedan with window tint and black rims, driven by a black male with a beard, approached a juvenile on River Road.

The juvenile was asked if he needed a ride and was told to get into the vehicle.

The juvenile stated no, and the vehicle quickly left the area and headed towards Hoffman Avenue. If anyone can identify the owner or operator of the vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact (973) 263-4300 extension 0.

Sydney Strumolo Named “Mayor for the Day”

By
Frank L. Cahill
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Mayor James Barberio with Sydney Strumolo

PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio executed the Oath of Office to Mayor Sydney Strumolo, a 7th grader at Central Middle School, as “Mayor for the Day” on Thursday, March 23.

Mayor Sydney Strumolo

A Police salute greeted Sydney, and then Mayor Barberio administered the “Oath of Office” to Sydney in the Council Chambers. Mayor Strumolo then presided over the staff meeting.

Mayor Strumolo then presided over the staff meeting

Mayor Strumolo ran the meeting efficiently and commanded the respect of the department heads as she listened to their reports. “Mayor Strumolo is a very smart young lady, and we loved having her at Town Hall today,” the Mayor said.

Mayor Strumolo then presided over the staff meeting

The Strumolo family: Peter, Tami, Devin, Sydney, and Mayor James Barberio.

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Parsippany Focus is a digital news organization that provides news coverage of Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey. The organization was founded in 1989 by Frank Cahill, who currently owns and operates the organization. Parsippany Focus covers local news, events, and community issues, and their content is primarily distributed through their website and social media channels. The organization has been serving as a trusted source of news and information for the Parsippany-Troy Hills community for over 30 years.

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