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Mark Schlette Earned his “Communication Badge”

PARSIPPANY — Mark Schlette, a scout with Scouts BSA Troop 72, attended the Parsippany-Troy Hills Council meeting on Tuesday, February 7, to earn his “Communication Badge.” Mark is a junior at Parsippany Hills High School.

To earn a communication badge, the scout can select from a list of requirements.  The scout can attend a public meeting (city council, school board, debate) where several points of view are given on a single issue.

Practice active listening skills and take careful notes of each point of view. Then the scout had to prepare an objective report that included all points of view expressed and share this with their counselor.

Communication focuses on how people use messages to generate meanings within and across various contexts, cultures, channels, and media. The field of communication promotes the effective and ethical practice of human communication.

This badge is one of the many badges the scout must earn before earning Eagle Rank.

Troop 72 was founded in 1954 and served the boys of the Parsippany Area until March 12, 2019. On March 12, 2019, Rev. Msgr. Herbert K. Tillyer signed the Scouts BSA New Unit Application for a Scouts BSA linked troop, creating two Troop 72’s.  This opens a new chapter in Troop 72 history, where we can now provide the same outstanding program to both boys and girls.

They have scouts from all parts of Parsippany and beyond.  Going to Brooklawn Middle School, Central Middle School, Parsippany High School, Parsippany Hills High School, and other schools outside the Parsippany public school system.

The Troop is sponsored by Saint Peter the Apostle Church and meets in the cafeteria at All Saints Academy. They attend Scout Sunday at Saint Peter’s, and the annual food drive benefits the Saint Peters’s food pantry.

Troop 72 participates in community service work with multiple churches and civic organizations. They welcome any requests from the community and are always happy to help.

John Hastings Graduated from the University of Iowa

PARSIPPANY —  John Hastings was among the nearly 2,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students conferred their degrees last month at the University of Iowa.

Hastings was a student in the Graduate Management Program whose program of study was the Professional MBA Program. The degree awarded was a Master of Business Administration.

Hastings and fellow graduates engaged, excelled, and stretched to reach their goals-often overcoming the obstacles created by a pandemic.

One doctoral candidate, for example, has made great research advances in her exploration of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy. A biomedical engineering student continues working to make the world a better place for heart disease patients and those in immigration limbo. And a student in communication sciences and disorders helped build from the ground up a free assistive technology consultation program for Iowa families of children with reading disabilities.

Year after year, Iowa students have pushed to achieve more and to come together for the greater good — that’s the Hawkeye Way. As the fall 2022 cohort of new graduates enter the next stage of their lives, they leave the Iowa campus full of potential and promise.

Eleven percent of the undergraduates graduated with multiple degrees, and, as a group, undergraduates posted a 3.17 cumulative grade point average during their stay in Iowa.

As a top global university, Iowa is the ideal destination for learning, discovery, and innovation. We bring art and science together to create a truly unique interdisciplinary education. With over 200 areas of study to choose from, students are encouraged to mix and match majors, minors, and certificates to earn a degree that reflects their unique interests.

From inside our world-class medical center to the most prestigious creative writing program in the U.S., students have access to quality academic support. They are equipped with the tools they need to stand out in a competitive workforce. Our 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows students to work directly with experts in their field while earning valuable, practical skills.

The campus seamlessly blends into the heart of downtown Iowa City, making it easy to access academic resources and belong to a larger, welcoming community. With over 500 student organizations, clubs, and communities on campus and countless in-town events scheduled throughout the year, Iowa makes it easy to build a network of friendships and connections that last a lifetime.

Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Announces his Candidacy for Township Council

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., announced his candidacy in a packed room at Barka Mediterranean Cuisine, Mountain Lakes, on Wednesday, February 1.

Recently Council Vice President Michael dePierro and Council President Loretta Gragnani announced they will not seek re-election. All three council members’ term ends on December 31, 2023.

Adam Kandil, Paul Carifi, Jr., and Matt McGrath

When this article was published, Carifi announced his running mates: Mr. Adam Kandil and Mr. Matt McGrath. (Watch for a complete article coming shortly)

There is very strong talk that other candidates will be joining in the Primary, but none have officially announced. Parsippany Focus will keep you informed if other candidates join in. The primary will be held on Tuesday, June 6.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Cavaliere, Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling, and Nicolas Limanov were among the many guests who came to support Paul in his re-election campaign.
Paul DeGroot and Morris County Commissioner Steven Shaw
Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Cpimcil President Loretta Gragnani and Parsippany-Troy Hills Captain Thomas Carney.
Morris County Commissioner Deborah Smith with Jack M. Ciattarelli.
Rob Zwigard, Ted Stanziale, and Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce were among the guests at the fundraiser for Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.
The large crowd supported Paul Carifi, Jr.’s re-election bid for Township Council.
The Tricore Construction Group
Adam Kandil and Rockaway Borough Police Chief Conrad Pepperman
Ahmed Kandil, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Board of Education member Alison Cogan, Paul DeGroot, Paul Carifi, Jr, and Adam Kandil

Paul Carifi, Jr. was selected in September 2011 by the Republican Committee to fill an unexpired term on the township council. He was elected by the residents of Parsippany that same year. Paul has been a resident of Parsippany for over 50 years and is the proud father of twin boys. He graduated from the Parsippany School system, having attended Eastlake Elementary School, Brooklawn Junior High School, and Parsippany Hills High School class of 1984. Paul received a Bachelor of Arts from East Stroudsburg University in Sociology / Criminal Justice and is also a graduate of the New Jersey Chief of Police West Point Leadership and Command Program as well as the New Jersey Certified Public Managers Program.

Paul had a career in law enforcement of over 25 years with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office serving the citizens of Morris County, where he served as the S.E.R.T. Commander for over 24 years. He received numerous Sheriff Achievement, Meritorious Service, Honorable Service, and Exceptional Duty awards. He is a parishioner at St. Christopher’s Church and a member of The Parsippany Republican Committee, The Parsippany Republican Club, and the Sons of Italy. Paul also volunteers his time to many local organizations.

Reparations – What Is It and What Does It Mean For New Jersey?

MORRIS COUNTY — The League of Women Voters of the Morristown Area is hosting a frank discussion on the subject of Reparations on Monday, February 13, at 7:00 p.m. at the Morris County Library, 30 East Hanover Avenue, Whippany. The program is co-sponsored by the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Morristown Alumnae Chapter, and Black Lives Matter Morristown.

Jean-Pierre Brutus

Jean-Pierre Brutus, New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, will help us navigate the mis- and dis- information associated with the word “reparations” and what it means for New Jersey. Along with over 30 partners, including LWVNJ, the Institute launched the Say the Word: Reparations campaign to get pending legislation (A938/S386) passed to establish a state Reparations Task Force in New Jersey.

The campaign is entitled “Say the Word” to focus attention specifically on the legacy of slavery in New Jersey, which has been called the “slave state of the North.”

The task force would allow esteemed experts throughout the state to study the history of slavery in New Jersey and its aftermath and provide strategic policy recommendations for reparative justice.

Assatta Mann, League of Women Voters of New Jersey, will moderate.

Jean-Pierre Brutus is a senior counsel in the Economic Justice Program at the NJ Institute for Social Justice. He leads the Institute’s reparations and housing advocacy. Before joining the Institute, Jean-Pierre worked at Legal Services NYC, representing indigent Bronx tenants facing eviction. Jean-Pierre is a graduate of Georgetown University. He earned his Ph.D. in African American Studies and JD from Northwestern University.

Assatta Mann is a Community Organizer for the League of Women Voters of NJ. She focuses on mobilizing League members, volunteers, and community partners around an organizing strategy that builds lasting power to secure legislative and policy wins. A lifelong resident of the city of Passaic, Assatta earned a degree in Political Science from Rutgers University – Newark. Before joining the League, Assatta worked on electoral campaigns where she focused on forming powerful coalitions between grassroots community organizations and turning out key voting constituencies.

Free and open to the public. For more information, click here.

Two Vehicle Crash on Littleton Road Sends Driver to Hospital

PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, January 29 at 11:15 p.m. Mr. Josephlus Debblay, 39, was traveling southbound on Littleton Road, passing Dartford Road.

Ms. Giuseppin, 50,  was traveling north on Littleton Road, passing Halsey Road, and had trouble negotiating the curve of the roadway.

Debblay’s vehicle, a 2018 Honda Civic, departed the travel lane and entered Giuseppin’s lane of travel, striking his 2009 Toyota Camry.

Mr. Debblay was transported to Morristown Medical Center. Both vehicles were towed from the scene by Powdermill Towing.

No summons was issued at the time of the incident.

The crash was investigated by Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Steven Harvey who determined the was caused by Ms. Giuseppin’s failure to keep right and unsafe speed.

 

Parsippany-Troy Hills School District Seeks 2023 Senior Internship Partners

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills School District has implemented an exciting Senior Internship Program, which allows senior students to participate in an off-site in-depth learning experience during the last five weeks of the school year.

This year one hundred students between Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School will report directly to internship sites from May 15 to June 16 and work a minimum of twenty hours per week.

The program’s goal is for students to fully explore career interests, connect with local mentors and gain invaluable work experience. More information about the program can be found by clicking here.

PTHSD actively seeks local businesses and individuals willing to mentor our students and provide them with shadowing opportunities. Internship mentors serve as role models, trainers, and advisors for our students, which can be an incredibly rewarding experience both personally and professionally. Our outstanding seniors are interested in pursuing careers and connecting with professionals in all areas of arts and entertainment, business, computer science, construction, cybersecurity, education, engineering, healthcare, health sciences, hospitality, information technology, media, product design, and manufacturing, public service, real estate, travel and tourism, and more. An FAQ document for internship mentors can be found by clicking here.

If you work for a local business and are interested in learning more about Parsippany’s Senior Internship Program, please complete this questionnaire or feel free to reach out to program coordinators – Chrissy Russell (CRussell@pthsd.net) and Liz O’Boyle (EOBoyle@pthsd.net).

Student Alberto Vega Completes Internship with Assemblywoman Dunn

PARSIPPANY — Alberto Vega, a graduate of Parsippany High School, has completed an extensive Policy Analyst Fellowship with the legislative office of Assemblywoman Aura Dunn. Assemblywoman Dunn’s office is in Chester, serving the constituents of Legislative District 25 in New Jersey. Vega is also a Graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Alberto is a first-generation college student and a quiet young man.  Alberto cut through the noisy political world, proving that making a difference in public office is about doing the hard work of compassion. Alberto worked diligently to contribute to the enhancement of operations and, ultimately, the services provided to the 230,000 residents of the district.

Alberto released the following statement about his time with Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn:

“I started interning for Assemblywoman Aura Dunn in October, and I have learned a tremendous amount in the past few months. This experience has given me a glimpse of what a future government career looks like.

One interesting part of my job was researching the various important subjects that concern the 25 legislative districts. I also enjoyed assisting the Assemblywoman and her staff by gathering news articles that were relevant to the district. Another responsibility I had included the opportunity to draft commemorative citations for well-deserving citizens in the area.

The longer I worked as an intern, the deeper my understanding of the district’s needs grew. At this point, I have memorized every municipality in the district.

This internship has given me months of valuable experience that will only help further my plans for a career in either the public or private sectors. I want to thank Assemblywoman Aura Dunn for giving me this opportunity. I am truly grateful for my time in her office.

I look forward to applying all that I learned in the District Office in my future.”

PHS FTC Team “Redbots” Qualifies for State Level Competition

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany High School FTC (First Tech Challenge) team “Redbots” has made it to the state-level competition after a successful performance in the regional competition on Saturday, February 4.

The Redbots

The team was awarded the “Design Award” and was named a Finalist Alliance Award recipient, highlighting their hard work and dedication to building a strong robot game.

Throughout the year, the “Redbots” team has been committed to promoting STEM education and awareness through various outreach initiatives and mentoring of a local FLL (FIRST Lego League) team. The team’s passion for STEM is evident in their commitment to their craft, and they are now seeking support from the community to continue their efforts.

Donations to the “Redbots” FTC team are tax-deductible and can be made through their 501(c)(3) setup.

Checks can be made payable to “PHS Redbots Supporters” and mailed to 24 Midvale Avenue, Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07054. The EIN# for tax deductions is #82-5416292.

In addition to seeking support, the “Redbots” team is also looking to recruit new members for the upcoming season. It encourages graduating middle and high school students to consider joining the club. This is a great opportunity for young students to pursue their passions for STEM/Robotics and be part of a team dedicated to promoting STEM education and awareness.

The Parsippany High School FTC team “Redbots.”
The Parsippany High School FTC team “Redbots” should be congratulated on their outstanding performance at the recent competition. The team’s commitment to promoting STEM education and their passion for their craft is truly inspiring, and we wish them the best of luck as they move forward in the competition.

Driver Runs Traffic Signal, Crashes and Vehicle Overturns

PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, January 18, at 4:43 p.m. Ms. Sanjna Katyal, 52, was stopped in her 2022 Tesla 3, facing west at the traffic signal (in the left straight lane) on the off-ramp of Route 287 South at the intersection of Parsippany Boulevard.

Ms. Gail  Altenkirch, 74, driving a 2017 Honda CRV, was traveling north on Parsippany Boulevard, approaching the intersection of Route 287 South off-ramp and Waterview Boulevard.

Ms. Gail  Altenkirch, driving a 2017 Honda CRV

A witness to the crash, Gina Simmons, was in the right straight lane on the off-ramp of Route 287 South, immediately to the right of Ms. Katyal’s vehicle. Simmons stated Katyal was stopped at the red light next to her, and both vehicles proceeded forward into the intersection when the light turned green.

Simmons stated that when Ms. Altenkirch entered the intersection perpendicularly at a high rate of speed, running the red light on Parsippany Boulevard. Katyal then crashed into the passenger side of Ms. Altenkirch, causing the vehicle to lose control and roll over multiple times, coming to rest on the side of Parsippany Boulevard.

Simmons stated that Katyal stopped briefly and slowly drove away from the crash scene, heading west on Waterview Boulevard.

Ms. Katyal was later stopped by police in Denville, stating that she didn’t see Altenkirch coming as she entered the intersection on the green light and then left the scene to pick up her son from school.

Altenkirch and her passenger both stated they did not recall the events of the crash or those leading up to it, but Altenkkirch stated before reaching the intersection, she was traveling at a high rate of speed.

Drivers’ and Witnesses’ statements and physical evidence at the scene showed that Altenkirch’s failure to observe a traffic control device and careless driving caused the crash.

McCarter’s Towing Company towed Ms. Katyal’s vehicle, and Ms. Altenkirch’s vehicle was removed from the scene by Corigilno Towing Company.

Ms. Katyal was issued a summons for (39:4-129A) Leaving the Scene of an Accident and (39:3-44) Motor Vehicles and Traffic Regulations.

Ms. Altenkirch was issued a summons for (39:4-81) Observance Traffic Signals and (39:4-97) Careless Driving.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Adam Clark investigated the accident.

Bergen County Resident Killed in I-80 Crash

PARSIPPANY — One person died, and three others were injured early Sunday morning in a two-vehicle accident on Interstate-80.

According to NJ Police Sargent Philip Curry, the early morning collision occurred at 2:41 a.m. in the westbound lanes of I-80 near mile marker 43.8.

The incident happened when a Lexus RX3 collided with a westbound Chevrolet Corvette driven by 29-year-old Luis Ramirez-Cano, of Bogota.

Ramirez-Cano was ejected in the crash and sadly died from his injuries. A passenger in the Corvette sustained unspecified injuries and was taken to Morristown Medical Center for treatment.

The driver of the Lexus sustained minor injuries but refused medical attention. The passenger of the Lexus sustained minor non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Saint Clare’s, Denville.

The crash remains under investigation.

Parsippany Focus will update this article as additional details become available.

Parsippany Educational Foundation Awards over $19,000 in Grants to Parsippany Schools

PARSIPPANY — Supporting educational enrichment in the township, the Parsippany Education Foundation funded 14 innovative programs during the ’22-’23 school year.

Spanning robotics, life skills, science, music, and art, proposals were developed by teachers, approved by principals, and evaluated by the Foundation based on their ability to contribute to a positive, dynamic learning environment.

Parsippany High School’s two robotics teams, the Redbots, and the Techhawks, received grants funding a 3-D printer and a variety of parts to use on their robots. The 3-D printer will be used to print 3-D parts like the claw they use to pick up cones in their FIRST Tech Challenge competitions.

“Our students design these parts, and it will be wonderful to have a printer on-site for them to print out the parts right away. At our last meeting, the Redbots were the First Place Alliance Captains. Our tournament is coming up in February, and we hope to qualify for our States competition in March. Thank you, PEF, for our grants; we could not do this without your support!” said Kathy Effner, Redbots Team Advisor, and Math Department Lead Teacher.

A check for $19,880 was presented to the Parsippany Board of Education by Foundation former President Stella Gizas, along with board member Gayle Strauss, on January 5.

“The Board of Education thanks the Parsippany Education Foundation for their direct support and generosity toward our Parsippany teachers.  The amazing projects being funded this year range from field trips to Science Under the Stars, One School, One Book, and many more.  The teachers who submit their innovative grant ideas are to be applauded, as well as the community support of the Parsippany Education Foundation fundraisers throughout the year,” said Timothy Berrios, Parsippany Board of Education President.

“I know I speak for all of our board members when I say that we love the opportunity to review our school district staff’s innovative and creative ideas.  We appreciate the time it takes to put together these grant proposals to benefit their students. It is a joy to encourage students in their educational journey by awarding these grants to our district.  We feel so blessed to be able to give back to a fabulous community of educators,” said Andrew Ladas, Parsippany Educational Foundation President.

The Parsippany Educational Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization established in 1996 to enrich the opportunities and experiences of students in the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District. The Foundation has contributed over $370,000 to the district raised through private donors, its annual spring golf outing to be held on May 16, and events held throughout the year.  Its Board of Directors consists of volunteers committed to developing a community of learners.  For more information, the Foundation may be reached at www.PEF4Kids.com  and pef4kids@aol.com.

Amit Bhatt Convicted of Aggravated Sexual Assault

MORRIS COUNTY — Amit Bhatt, a former Parsippany-Troy Hills resident, was convicted after a three-day trial. The married 43-year-old accountant still faces a charge of possessing child porn in Bergen County.

A Morris County jury found Amit Bhatt guilty of all charges related to an aggravated sexual assault that occurred on October 28, 2017, in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.

The guilty verdict was reached following a three-day trial on January 27. The defendant was found guilty of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, second-degree Sexual Assault, and third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

A sentencing date has been scheduled for March 17 before the Honorable Ralph Amirata, J.S.C. The defendant will remain in custody until that time and was detained on Bergen County charges involving the possession of child sexual abuse material yesterday. At sentencing, the Aggravated Sexual Assault and Sexual Assault convictions are subject to the No Early Release Act (NERA), which makes the defendant ineligible for parole until he has served 85% of the sentence imposed.

As the Jessica Lunsford Act requires, the defendant must receive a sentence between 25 years and life imprisonment. He must serve 25 years or more before becoming eligible for parole on the Aggravated Sexual Assault charge.

The charges arose from an incident that occurred on October 28, 2017, in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, wherein the defendant performed sex acts on and touched the inner thigh of an eight-year-old child. Members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes & Child Endangerment Unit investigated the incident after being notified of the victim’s disclosure by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office on January 11, 2022.

Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank and acknowledge the agencies that participated in the investigation which led to the successful guilty verdict, including the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Police Department, the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes & Child Endangerment Unit. The Prosecutor also credited the Trial Team, Assistant Prosecutor Vanessa I. Craveiro and Assistant Prosecutor Taylor Sharofsky, with their professional and dedicated service; and commended MCPO Sex Crimes & Child Endangerment Unit Detective Sergeant Lydia Negron and Detective Lamar Hagans, and Detective Jermaine Pledger of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, and all others who contributed to the investigation and successful prosecution in this case.

Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Retires

MORRIS COUNTY — After 18 years of service in law enforcement, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker has announced his retirement. Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Deputy Chief of Detectives Robert McNally honored Chief Kimker for his exemplary service and expressed their gratitude to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office on his last day.

Deputy Chief Robert McNally, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief Christoph Kimker, and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood

Members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Sheriff’s Office, municipal police departments, and county officials held a walk-out ceremony for Chief Kimker at the Morris County Administration Building.

Prosecutor Carroll said, “Chris Kimker has been an outstanding Chief of Detectives.  My decision to appoint him to that position was based upon a long history of quality investigative work, integrity, and dedication that, by any measure, stands as a high-water mark of police professionalism.  The MCPO is a better law enforcement agency because of Chris’ leadership and hard work.  The Morris County Chiefs Association often remarked that Chris answered any time of day or night they called – the mark of a caring and dedicated public servant.  Equally important, he has been a good man and a loyal friend to all of us and will be sorely missed.  We wish him the absolute best in all his future endeavors.”

First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood said, “I have been fortunate to have been a colleague of Chief Kimker’s for almost two decades, but it has been the last two years that I have been truly honored to work beside him in Prosecutor Carroll’s administration. He has positively impacted the men and women of MCPO, and I thank him for all he has done over his long and productive career. I wish him the best in his retirement!”

Sheriff James Gannon said, “I first met Chief Kimker when he started in Morris County in 1992. He was an environmental specialist.  We were co-workers when he joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 2004. Chris was a Lieutenant when I was elected to my first term as Morris County Sheriff.  He is a great investigator and a tremendous leader, but I think his best trait is being a team builder based on his genuineness.  The synergetic relationship we enjoy in Morris County between my Office, the Prosecutor’s Office, and the Chiefs of Police is in no small way due to Chris’s kind demeanor and professional respect. We will all miss that but hope the next chapter is great, as it has been greatly earned!”

Mendham Township Police Chief Ross Johnson, 2023 President of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association, said, “On behalf of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association and myself, I want to wish Chief Kimker the best in his well-deserved retirement and starting the next chapter in his life. Chief Kimker has been the epitome of professionalism throughout his career and as he has ascended the ranks in the Prosecutor’s Office. I can safely say most every Chief in our Association, including myself, has worked with Chief Kimker at some point in their career and will tell you his dedication and compassion are second to none, along with his quick wit. He will be missed, and we all appreciate everything he has done for the county and assisting our departments.”

Chief Christoph Kimker Biography

Chief Christoph Kimker was raised in Mine Hill. He is an Eagle Scout and graduated from Morris Catholic High School in 1988.

He attended Seton Hall University, graduating in 1992 with a B.A. in Political Science and a Minor in US History. In 1995, he earned an M.A. in Environmental Management from Montclair State University.

In 1992, Chris was hired by the County of Morris as an Environmental Specialist, where he supervised the Environmental Services Unit. Among other responsibilities, the position included coordinating the County Environmental Health Act (CEHA), and the Morris County Hazardous Material Team.

In October 2004, Chris was hired by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office as a Detective and assigned to the Major Crimes Unit and the Arson / Environmental Crimes Unit. In June 2005, he was assigned to the Specialized Crimes Division with a supplemental assignment to the Arson / Environmental Crimes Unit. In May 2006, he was assigned full-time to the Arson / Environmental Crimes Unit. Between 2010 and 2014, Detective Kimker was assigned to investigate Arson / Environmental Crimes cases and Major Crimes cases.

In June 2013, Detective Kimker was promoted to Detective / Supervisor of the Arson / Environmental Crimes Unit. In June 2014, Detective / Supervisor Kimker was transferred to the Major Crimes Unit.

In February 2015, Detective / Supervisor Kimker was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and transferred to the Specialized Crimes Division, where he supervised the Division until August 2016. In August 2016, Sergeant Kimker was transferred to supervise the Major Crimes Unit.

In April 2017, Sergeant Kimker was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and assigned to the Specialized Crimes Division.

In August 2018, Lieutenant Kimker was promoted to the rank of Captain in charge of the Specialized Crimes Division and the Family Division.

On April 1, 2019, Captain Kimker was made Acting Chief of Detectives, and on January 24, 2021, he was sworn in as Chief of Detectives.

In addition to his regular assignments, Chief Kimker served as a member of the WMD Assessment Team, previous Team Leader and member of the Crisis Negotiation Team, and the Rapid Deployment Team. He is also an Officer Firearms Instructor. Chief Kimker has completed numerous law enforcement training programs and is a member of several law enforcement organizations.

Market Street Mission Provided 127,000 Meals, 41,982 Nights of Shelter

MORRIS COUNTY — Market Street Mission served 127,013 meals and provided 41,982 nights of safe shelter to its community guests and recovery program residents in 2022, along with the Sussex County location in Newton.

Forty-two men also graduated from the mission’s addiction recovery Life Change Program last year. This program is structured to offer mission residents mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual healing as they work to rebuild their lives and rejoin their families and communities.

As a private nonprofit organization, the mission relies on the charitable support of compassionate donors to fund its work and be able to offer its services free of charge to our neighbors in need.

“I know everyone in the New Year makes resolutions trying to better themselves, and here at the Mission, we just started a new Life Change Program Class,” said Patrick Tansey, Clinical and Outreach Director at the Market Street Mission and Jersey Shore Rescue Mission.

“The men are going to take classes like Chemical Dependency and Relapse Prevention, Anger Management, Fatherhood and Manhood, Christian Doctrine, Christian Finance, and Career Skills. We are excited to start the New Year and help these men lead sober, Christian lives. We thank everyone for their donations and look forward to bringing more updates this coming year.”

Anyone who needs help or knows someone who does can visit the mission at 9 Market Street, Morristown; call (973) 538-0431 or click here.

Morris County to Hold Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MCMUA) will conduct four Household Hazardous Waste Disposal events in 2023. The dates are:

  • Saturday, May 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany
  • Saturday, June 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany
  • Saturday, September 16, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue in Parsippany
  • Saturday, October 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Pequannock Valley Park, Marvin Road in Pompton Plains

Morris County residents can drop off unwanted hazardous materials from their households. Businesses are not allowed to participate.

Reminder, electronic devices (e-waste) will no longer be accepted at MCMUA one-day household hazardous waste events. The authority advises residents to call (973) 829-8006 for information and to discuss recycling options.

Acceptable materials include: aerosol cans, asbestos, automotive fluids, driveway sealant and roofing tar, fire extinguisher, gasoline, kerosene and diesel fuel, household cleaning products, lead acid batteries, button cell batteries, lithium-ion batteries, rechargeable batteries, mercury-containing bulbs, devices, muriatic acid, oil-based paints, stains, lacquers, and varnishes, paint thinners, paint removers and solvents, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, photo chemicals, pool chemicals and propane tanks of 20 pounds or less.

Unacceptable items are: alkaline and carbon zinc batteries, business waste, compressed gas cylinders, containers larger than five gallons, empty containers, explosives, hhw generated outside of Morris County, highly reactive and unstable materials, medical waste, radioactive materials, smoke and carbon monoxide detector, unknown or unlabeled materials, used consumer electronics and water-based paint and latex paint.

For more information, call (973) 829-8006 or click here.

Authorities Call for Help Finding Missing Morristown Woman

MORRIS COUNTY — Imani Glover, 25, missed a second court appearance Monday after an initial absence on January 3, according to a statement from the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office. Both appearances involved “charges relating to controlled dangerous substances, hindering and tampering,” Meghan Knab, a spokeswoman for the prosecutor’s office

Glover, of Morristown, was last seen by a family member in New York in the area of 239 West 15th Street on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, with another female. Glover has ties in East Orange, Irvington, Newark, and Harlem, NY.

Imani Glover is a 25-year-old Black female, 5 feet 3 inches in height, with brown eyes and black hair weighing approximately 160 lbs. Glover has a tattoo on her left wrist (Shantia) and the back of her neck.

On January 3, 2023, and later on January 30, Glover failed to appear for two scheduled court dates.

On January 8, 2023, Glover’s mother reported her missing to the Morristown Police Department.

The Morristown Police Department, with the assistance of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, has been diligently working on this active missing persons investigation with the assistance of outside agencies, including municipal and out-of-state law enforcement agencies.

Anyone with information regarding Glover’s whereabouts or this investigation is encouraged to contact the Morristown Police Department at (973) 538-2200 or the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Missing Persons Unit On-Call Detective through the Morris County Communications Center at (973) 285-2900. Anyone with information which may be seeking to remain anonymous can contact Morris County Crimestoppers at 1-800- 743-7433.

How to Claim Your Morris Now APP Free Business Listing

MORRIS COUNTY — Are you a small business in Morris County? Did you claim your free Morris Now listing? What are you waiting for?

It’s easy to claim your free listing by visiting www.morrisnow.com.

Need help? We will have a Zoom meeting on Friday, February 17, at 2:30 p.m.

The webinar is free, and you will receive a valuable guide entitled “2023 Marketing Campaign.” This guide will help you plan inexpensive local or free advertising opportunities that you may not even be aware of.

You must register for this event by clicking here.

Once you register, you will receive the link for the event.

The Morris Now mobile app is more than just supporting our beloved locally-owned businesses. It’s about our entire community and the local residents making the Morris County, New Jersey area a special place to live and work daily!

All the upcoming local events, venues, news, weather, school alerts, and local push notification messages will keep you fully informed about everything in the Morris County, New Jersey area. All-in-one, easy-to-use mobile app on your phone at no cost to download.

Our strong passion is also about supporting locally owned businesses, too! We encourage you to download our local app and use it to locate and support the men and women who own local businesses in our town. By working together as a community, we can keep the local revenue from leaving the Morris County, New Jersey area by using our proximity-based technology!

Join us in making the Morris area a smarter community to live in a while creating closer relationships within our community!

Please also know that our mobile app is proudly owned and operated right here in Parsippany, New Jersey!

To download our free app, visit the Apple Store or Google Play or click here.

Robert McNally Promoted to Chief of Detectives of the Prosecutor’s Office

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood announce the promotion of Robert McNally to Chief of Detectives of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

Chief Robert McNally is a United States Marine Corps Veteran who served as a sniper team leader in a Marine Infantry Battalion. Chief McNally completed three deployments during his military service and was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps in 1994.

Chief McNally began his law enforcement career in 1996 with the United States Customs Service. During his basic police academy training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, he received the high pistol shooter award and the top physical fitness award for his class. He made numerous arrests and seizures for federal narcotics and U.S. currency law violations as a federal officer. From 1996 through 2003, Chief McNally received numerous recognitions for his work as a federal officer, including his direct involvement in a one-million-dollar currency seizure related to narcotics smuggling.

Chief McNally is a twenty-five-year-plus veteran of law enforcement who is a graduate of the West Point Command and Leadership Program, the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association courses, a recent graduate of the Crisis Mental Health Intervention Training, and has completed numerous other supervisory and management courses.

A formal promotion ceremony was held on February 1, 2023.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh Organization conducted Yogathon

PARSIPPANY — The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) organization conducted a Yogathon(Yoga Marathon) event to encourage/promote health/fitness awareness at the PAL Youth Center on Sunday, January 29.  The event’s purpose was to encourage everyone in the North Jersey area, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, faith, or nationality to participate and achieve personal goals of a healthy lifestyle. 

“Yoga for Health; Health for Humanity – Yogathon” event was participated by more than 100+ people (including children). Where all the participants did continuous yoga (Surya Namaskar – Sun Salutation) for two hours.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio attended the inaugural event and presented a Proclamation to the organization, appreciating the health/fitness event.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella also participated in Yogathon and did yoga with everyone.

At the conclusion, Musella distributed certificates to all the participating children to encourage them to spend time on exercises and be fit/healthy actively.

Councilman Justin Musella also participated in Yogathon

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2023. Click here to view the magazine.

Jameson Snyder Achieved Centenary University Dean’s List

PARSIPPANY — Jameson Snyder is among those recognized among Dean’s List achievers at Centenary University.  Madison P. Miller also received honors this past semester.

Jameson is a Morris County VoTech Senior with dual enrollment at Centenary.

Centenary University President Bruce Murphy, Ed.D., has announced the Dean’s List for the Fall 2022 semester. To achieve this honor, full-time students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.8 or above and complete a minimum of 12-semester credits.

Founded in 1867 by the Newark Conference of the United Methodist Church, Centenary University’s academic program integrates a solid liberal arts foundation with a strong career orientation. This mix provides an educational experience that prepares students to succeed in the increasingly global and interdependent world. The University’s main campus is in Hackettstown, with its equestrian facility in Washington Township.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, February 2023. Click here to view the magazine.

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