Friday, September 6, 2024
Home Blog Page 89

CCM to Hold Fall Open House

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Culinary Arts students demonstrating how to make a tasty dessert for guests at the Spring 2022 Open House

MORRIS COUNTY — County College of Morris (CCM) will be holding a Fall Open House packed full of informative and engaging sessions and activities, including a raffle to win a virtual reality headset.

Culinary Arts students demonstrating how to make a tasty dessert for guests at the Spring 2022 Open House

Several academic programs will be holding showcases to provide students with deeper insight into different courses of study. Participants also will be able to tour the college’s state-of-the-art facilities, labs and studios. To obtain a solid understanding of the lay of the campus – the Land of the Titans – there will be a scavenger hunt and a raffle for those who take part. The winner will receive a Meta Quest 2 virtual reality headset.

The Open House takes place Saturday, October 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with three starting sessions at 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on CCM’s campus, 214 Center Grove Road, Randolph. Registration is required and is now taking place. To register click here.

As always, the Open House will provide high school students, their families and adult learners with the opportunity to learn about the highly ranked education CCM provides to meet educational and career goals. Those attending the Open House will be able to talk with faculty and explore the more than 100 degree, certificate and professional development programs CCM offers. They also can learn about the admissions and registration process, and the support services and co-curricular programs CCM provides to ensure the success of its students. Special admissions and registration sessions also will be held for students to secure their enrollment at the college.

Included among its many distinctions, CCM is ranked #1 in New Jersey for best associate degrees and in the top 1.8 percent of the best community colleges nationwide by Intelligent. The college also continues to maintain its #1 position in the state in PayScale’s “Best Community Colleges in New Jersey by Salary Potential,” a distinction it has held for five years in a row.  To apply click here.

New Jersey’s ANCHOR Property Tax Relief Program

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey announced a new Property Tax Relief Program which replaces the previous Homestead Benefit program and has expanded eligibility for property tax relief for Tax Year 2019. The Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters (ANCHOR) Property Tax Relief Program will benefit a large number of homeowners and tenants. Click Here for more information.

The deadline for filing your ANCHOR benefit application is December 30, 2022. They will begin paying ANCHOR benefits in the late Spring of 2023. ANCHOR payments will be paid in the form of a direct deposit or check, not as credits to property tax bills.

They are currently mailing ANCHOR benefit information mailers to homeowners and tenants. Allow until the first week in October to receive your mailer. Homeowners who filed a homestead benefit application last year may be able to obtain their ID and PIN numbers online. Tenants do not need an ID or PIN number to file. Click here to visit the Division’s ANCHOR page for all filing information.

Due to high call volume, the ANCHOR and Homestead Benefit Hotline may be unable to take your call at certain times.

If that occurs, please try your call at another time. Our hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Pennacchio Blasts Teaneck Democrats for Anti-Hindu Resolution

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Sen. Joe Pennacchio blasted Teaneck Democrats for the adoption of a resolution condemning and targeting major Hindu American organizations that it considers to be hate groups. “Regardless of the religion we choose to practice, we’re all Americans,” Pennacchio said. (Wikimedia Commons)

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio blasted the Teaneck Democratic Municipal Committee for its adoption of a resolution condemning and targeting major Hindu American organizations that it considers to be hate groups tied to “Hindu nationalism” in India.

“It’s concerning that a Democratic political organization whose purpose is to elect its members to government office and to influence public policy would pass a resolution effectively condemning the entire Hindu religion,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “It’s extremely dangerous to target large segments of any ethnic group or religion for harassment using government resources. It was wrong when the entire Muslim community was profiled after 9/11 for the actions of a small number of extremists, and it’s just as wrong for all of our Hindu American neighbors to be treated this way today.”

The TDMC’s resolution lists five major tax-exempt Hindu organizations that it suggests are hate groups with “direct or indirect ties” to a Hindu nationalist organization in India.

Suggesting these Hindu groups share an ideology with “Nazism and European fascism,” the resolution by Teaneck Democrats urges Senator Bob Menendez, Senator Cory Booker, Congressman Josh Gottheimer, and Governor Phil Murphy to request that the FBI and CIA to investigate “foreign hate groups” and their tax-exempt status, among other things.

“Regardless of the religion we choose to practice, we are all Americans,” added Pennacchio. “We shouldn’t try to weaponize our institutions of government to attack other people or groups whose religious views or affiliations differ from our own.”

Related Facebook Post: Click here

Related Tweet: Click here

Website Post: Click here

Morris County Proclaims October 2022 Blindness Awareness Month

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Director Selen presents the proclamation to Bill Schuldt and Jennifer Spring under a mural at VLANJ that carries the Hellen Keller quote: “Life is a daring adventure, or it is nothing.”

MORRIS COUNTY — Director Tayfun Selen of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners today delivered a framed proclamation declaring October 2022 “Blindness Awareness Month,” as he toured the Denville headquarters of Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey.

VLANJ President and CEO Bill Schuldt was on hand to accept the proclamation. He and Vice President of Development and Communications Jennifer Singer also updated Director Selen on the nonprofit’s programs.  Serving adults with vision loss for 79 years, VLANJ helps people cope and adapt to vision loss, while also providing them with training in independent living skills and assistive technology.

Blindness and profound vision loss affect more than 160,000 people in New Jersey, an estimated 7.68 million people in the U.S. and those numbers are expected to increase as the nation’s population lives longer, according to the National Federation of the Blind.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 93 million adults in the United States are at risk for vision loss and projects the number of Americans of ages 40 years old and up with serious vision loss or blindness will double to nearly 9 million by 2050.

The proclamation, signed by the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, commends VLANJ for its nearly four decades of exemplary service to the public. It also proclaims October 2022 to be  “Blindness Awareness Month” in Morris County to increase awareness of eye disease and eye care, so all citizens understand the challenges faced daily by our loved ones, friends, neighbors and co-workers with vision loss.

The nonprofit began in Newark in 1943 as the New Jersey Association for the Blind, a place for people with vision loss to socialize. Twelve years later, the organization opened a summer camp in Denville for women with blindness and, under the name NJ Foundation for the Blind, added life skills training to the summer camp experience.

Independent skills training became year-round in the late 1990s, and by 2006, the organization provided a comprehensive, nonresidential vision rehabilitation program for adults. Adopting VLANJ as its name in 2016, the nonprofit added low vision occupational therapy and other services.

Director Selen and Bill Schuldt leaving the VLANJ offices

Since the onset of the COVID pandemic in 2020, VLANJ has grown tremendously as it added and expanded virtual programming.

On October 26, Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey will host its annual “Dining in the Dark” event, which allows guests to briefly experience what people with vision loss or blindness must go through when they dine. Attendees will enjoy a three-course meal using smell, touch, taste, and hearing  — but not sight — at the Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park.

For tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at vlanj.org by Click here.  Contact VLANJ Vice President of Development and Communications Jennifer Singer at jsinger@vlanj.org or 973-627-0055. Prompt 2 for more information.

VLANJ receives the majority of its funding from individual donations, which can be made by clicking here.

Fortune Named Parsippany 15th Best Place to Live

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Veterans Park

PARSIPPANY — Families are synonymous with love, care, and support. But to provide that, about 45% of Americans are being squeezed by simultaneous responsibilities of raising their children while regularly caring for their own parents. Where this so-called Sandwich Generation chooses to live can actually help mitigate some of the stress by providing useful amenities like good schools, access to quality health care, community support, and resources for aging residents. To find hometowns that provided the right mix to meet the needs of multigenerational families, Fortune analyzed more than 215,000 data points for nearly 2,000 cities and towns across the U.S. Here are the communities that stood out.

Parsippany was ranked 15th in the top 25. Click here to read the article.

Remembrance of the Murder of Christopher Thomas

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

MORRIS COUNTY — The 40th Anniversary of the unsolved murder of Christopher Thomas, 16, of Boonton Township, was marked Saturday, October 1, by his family, friends the Morris Catholic High School community and Morris County Law Enforcement.

The ceremony took place at the high school, 200 Morris Avenue, Denville. Thomas was a Morris Catholic junior when he was killed in 1982.

Thomas’ brother, Mark, announced an increased reward and asked the public to help solve the shooting death of his brother inside the Rockaway Townsquare Mall on October 1, 1982.

On Friday October 1, 1982, Thomas made plans to go to the Rockaway Townsquare Mall with a 14 year old female acquaintance. The two were dropped off at the mall at 9:16 p.m that night. They walked into the mall entrance, with the intention of going to see a movie at the Inner-Six Theatre and afterwards, purchasing an anniversary present for Christopher’s parents. Within seconds, Christopher was approached by a man. This man then pushed the female acquaintance aside, took out a gun and fired a single shot at Thomas point blank range in the chest. The shooter fled the scene on foot as Christopher stumbled a bit further into the mall and collapsed on the floor.

The Rockaway Township Police Department and other emergency service workers rushed to the scene and transported Christopher to the Dover General Hospital on Route 46 East, Dover. Unfortunately, Christopher was pronounced dead at 9:26 p.m. The case was then ruled a homicide.

There were at least 20 witnesses to this incident, and each one described the offender as a Caucasian male between 18-23 years old, 5’5 to 5’10” in height, and a thin build of about 135-155 pounds. He had dark medium length hair that was parted in the middle, which police suspect might have been a wig. He had a thin, dark colored mustache and some sources state he also had mirrored sunglasses on. He was dressed in blue jeans, a denim jacket and boots. There is a composite sketch posted above. Christopher’s friend said she did not recognize the gunman.

According to his family, Christopher was a promising student and a talented athlete at the time of his murder. He was preparing to be inducted into the National Honor Society and was on the high school’s varsity basketball team and the soccer team.

Police would not comment on whether they believe this was random, a case of mistaken identity, or something else entirely. They have been pursuing all angles, and have still not come up with a motive.

If you have any additional information, please contact the Morris County Cold Case Unit at 973-285-6200. All calls will be kept confidential.

Provident Bank to Acquire Lakeland Bank

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Lakeland Bank located at 321 West Main Street, Boonton

MORRIS COUNTY — Provident Financial Services, Inc. and Lakeland Bancorp, Inc. have entered into a definitive $1.3 billion all-stock merger agreement, creating a preeminent super-community bank in the state, according to the two financial institutions. The merger of Provident Bank and Lakeland Bank will create a financial institution that will have more than $25 billion in assets and $20 billion in total deposits. It will also have approximately 4% of all bank deposits in New Jersey, which represents the second largest share of New Jersey bank deposits for institutions with less than $100 billion in assets.

Under the terms of the merger agreement, which was unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies, Lakeland will merge with and into Provident, with Provident as the surviving corporation. The combined company will operate under the “Provident Financial Services, Inc.” name and the combined bank will operate under the “Provident Bank” name. The administrative headquarters of the combined company will be located in Iselin.

“We are excited to announce this transformational combination of two amazing organizations. The scale and profitability of the combined organization will enable us to invest in the future, better compete for market share, and better serve our customers and communities,” said Anthony Labozzetta, president and CEO of Provident. “It is particularly gratifying to embark on this journey with our colleagues on the Lakeland team and Tom Shara, whom we have held in high regard for many years.”

According to Thomas J. Shara, Lakeland’s president and CEO, “The combination of our companies will allow us to achieve substantially more for our clients, associates, communities, and shareholders than we could alone. I have tremendous respect for Tony Labozzetta, Chris Martin, Provident’s management team and associates. We will continue to build upon and leverage our combined strengths as we focus on the future together.”

Chris Martin, executive chairman of Provident added, “We are confident that this strategic combination and the resulting strong pro forma financial performance, synergies and experienced management team will deliver on our commitment to providing superior long-term shareholder returns.”

Strategic Benefits of the Merger

While the transaction fortifies Provident and Lakeland’s positions as leading players in the Tri-State commercial real estate market, Provident’s two ancillary fee-based business lines in insurance and wealth management and Lakeland’s growing asset-based lending and equipment lease financing provide opportunities for additional growth and relationship expansion. Both Provident and Lakeland have extensive experience successfully integrating with merger partners, and both are intensely focused on ensuring a smooth integration.

Governance and Leadership

The combined company’s board of directors will have sixteen directors, consisting of nine directors from Provident and seven directors from Lakeland.

  • Christopher Martin, Provident’s current executive chairman, will continue to serve as executive chairman of the combined company board of directors
  • Thomas Shara Jr., Lakeland’s current president, chief executive officer and director, will serve as executive vice chairman of the combined company board of directors
  • Anthony Labozzetta, a current director of Provident, will continue to serve as a director of the combined company
  • A Provident board representative will serve as the independent lead director of the combined company board of directors

The combined company will be led by a well-respected management team that is comprised of individuals with significant financial services and M&A integration experience.

  • Anthony Labozzetta, Provident’s current president and CEO, will continue to serve in that role in the combined company
  • Thomas Lyons, Provident’s current senior executive vice president and chief financial officer, will continue to serve in that role in the combined company
  • The remainder of the executive team will draw from both Provident and Lakeland

The merger is expected to close in the second quarter of 2023, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including receipt of customary regulatory approvals and approval by the shareholders of each company.

Piper Sandler Companies is acting as financial advisor, and has rendered a fairness opinion to the board of directors of Provident. Sullivan & Cromwell LLP is serving as legal counsel to Provident. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company is acting as financial advisor, and has rendered a fairness opinion to the board of directors of Lakeland. Luse Gorman, PC is serving as legal counsel to Lakeland.

College of the Holy Cross Welcomes Gabriel Mansolelli to the Class of 2026

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

PARSIPPANY — The College of the Holy Cross congratulates the 904 new Crusaders who are starting at the College in Fall 2022. Gabriel Mansolelli, a graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, will be part of the Class of 2026.

Representing the largest class in Holy Cross’ 179-year history, the Class of 2026 hails from 575 high schools, 14 countries and four continents. Twenty-five percent of the class are students of color and international students; 24 languages are spoken; and 50 members hold dual citizenship. Nine students live within 1 mile of campus, which is about the same number as those who live more than 5,000 miles from The Hill.

These newly minted Crusaders have distinguished themselves through community service, leadership roles, and diverse participation in areas like the arts, music and athletics.

“Holy Cross is built for broad, deep and meaningful education and that says something very important about the kind of student who matriculates here. Our classes are small and there is nowhere to hide – in the best possible sense,” President Vincent D. Rougeau said. “Our students have to be ready for spirited engagement. They will have their certainties challenged and perspectives broadened as they prepare for a world that needs their leadership, wisdom, empathy and generosity. And we are confident that they will thrive here.”

The new Crusaders arrived on campus and moved into the residence halls on Saturday, August 27th, where they were welcomed to Mount St. James by an enthusiastic purple crew of current students, staff, faculty and alumni. Fall classes began on Tuesday, August 30th.

The College of the Holy Cross, in Worcester, Mass., is among the nation’s leading liberal arts institutions. A highly selective, four-year, exclusively undergraduate college of 3,100 students, Holy Cross is renowned for offering a rigorous, personalized education in the Jesuit, Catholic tradition. Since its founding in 1843, Holy Cross has made a positive impact in society by graduating students who distinguish themselves as thoughtful leaders in business, professional and civic life.

Parsippany Board of Education Candidates Forum

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

PARSIPPANY — The League of Women Voters held a debate for candidates for the Board of Education.  The debate was co-sponsored by Parsippany Woman’s Club.

Seven candidates are running for three available seats:

  • Falgun Bakhtarwala
  • Kendra Von Achen
  • Michelle Shappell
  • Jack S. Raia
  • Andrew Choffo
  • Alison C. Cogan
  • Yvonne Ferise

Election Day is Tuesday, November 8.

Clean Water Cafe Officially Opens

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Tim Lucas, founder and Lead Pastor of Liquid Church

PARSIPPANY — Clean Water Cafe Officially opened its doors as a full-service, one-of-a-kind coffee shop serving breakfast, lunch, and specialty coffee creations.

Clean Water Cafe has partnered with Chick-Fil-A on Route 10 in Morris Plains to offer a variety of signature Chick-Fil-A lunch options.

Clean Water Cafe is located at Liquid Church, 299 Webro Road.

In addition to serving up breakfast, lunch, and specialty coffee and tea creations, the Clean Water Cafe will champion a unique purpose, supporting two causes that Liquid Church is passionate about providing supportive employment for all adults, including those with special needs, and using all proceeds to provide clean water to families in Central America and Africa.

“At the Clean Water Cafe, we believe that people with special needs such as autism spectrum disorder, down syndrome, and ADHD can change the world for good! As customers at the Clean Water Cafe enjoy their favorite coffee, they will be providing hope and purpose to differently-abled friends through the joy of meaningful employment,” said Pastor Tim Lucas, Lead Pastor of Liquid Church.

“With over 80% of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities unemployed, our goal is that the Clean Water Cafe will help create meaningful employment for all adults and a pathway to acceptance, inclusion, and appreciation in the workplace,” said Sarah Nilsen, Clean Water Cafe Director.

As a not-for-profit, all purchases at the Clean Water Cafe will help provide safe, clean drinking water to thirsty children and families in need in Africa and Central America.

“Access to clean water can transform lives and elevate the health of the world’s most vulnerable families. For 15 years, Liquid Church has been committed to the Clean Water Cause, completing more than 350 clean water well projects, bringing safe drinking water to over 130,000 people in 9 nations!” said Lucas. “Profits from the new Clean Water Cafe will further this mission, helping us build new wells and expand access to clean drinking water for thousands of people across the globe.”

In addition to a range of coffee options, tea, baked goods, fruit, and salads, the Clean Water Cafe has partnered with Chick-Fil-A on Route 10 in Morris Plains to offer a variety of signature Chick-Fil-A lunch options, such as the classic chicken sandwich, chilled grilled chicken sub sandwich, salads, and more.

The large, modern coffeehouse includes a seating capacity for 118 guests, cozy couches, a large community table with built-in outlets for charging laptops, plus free wifi and plenty of room to gather with groups.

Clean Water Cafe supports two causes: Clean Water and Special Needs. The Clean Water Cafe will create a path for all adults to be accepted, included, and valued in the workplace, including those with special needs. Clean Water Cafe employs 19 people with disabilities, some of whom say it’s their first paid job.

At the same time, you are helping bring clean drinking water to thirsty children and families in need from Central America to Africa.

The cafe hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and closed Friday through Sunday.

Click here for more information.

Mayor James Barberio speaking to audience
Tim Lucas, founder and Lead Pastor of Liquid Church

GYL Financial Synergies Parsippany Office Helps out at Table of Hope

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

PARSIPPANY — Spring Street Community Development Corporation (SSCDC) was founded in 2011 with the mission to improve the quality of life for Morris County families by addressing economic, educational, and social needs while preserving the cultural and ethnic diversity of the area.

The Spring Street CDC emerged to impact families throughout Morris County with over 100,000 meals served through the Table of Hope and over 400 kids mentored.

On Thursday, September 15 GYL Financial Synergies members, Gary Herz, Bernice Ching, Debbie Molan, and Mary Ann Marchese of GYL’s Parsippany office helped with sorting food, carrying and loading bins of groceries into cars. Today over 300 families were served.

Thank you to the team for helping out a much-needed cause. For more information on how you can help click here.

Halloween Costume Swap at Parsippany Library

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
trunk or treat parsippany
Decorate your vehicle for children to visit

PARSIPPANY – Do you have costumes you no longer need? Are you looking for a costume? Children, Teens, and Adults costumes welcome!

If you have Halloween costumes or accessories in good condition, drop them off at the Children’s Department, Parsippany-Troy Hills Public Library, 449 Halsey Road, by Tuesday, October 18.

Costume Swap will take place:
Thursday, October 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

They cannot guarantee specific sizes or styles will be available. Please note that if not enough costumes are collected, this program may be canceled.

#halloweencostumeswap #halloween #halloweencostume #parlib #parsippanymoms #parsipannynj #parsippany #library #libraries

Parsippany’s Trunk or Treat Returns

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Squad at Parsippany's Trunk or Treat

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Annual Halloween traditional returns. Trunk or Treat will take place on Monday, October 31 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Park, 1855 Route 46.

Trunk-or-treating is pretty simple. Instead of going from home to home, children collect candy from vehicles that are often festively decorated. It’s often regarded as a safer alternative to trick-or-treating and has grown in popularity around the nation in recent years.

Parsippany’s event has no admission fee. But each child attending must supply a bag of factory-sealed candy in a factory-sealed bag, or non-food treats. The township is asking residents, organizations and businesses to attend with decorated vehicles and help make the event a success for the children.

Registration for trunks and tables is required. Click here to register. The top three displays, trunks or tables will win a prize.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Ethics Presentation 2022

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0

PARSIPPANY — Katherine A. Gilfillan, Esq. presents the Parsippany-Troy Hills Board of Education Ethics Presentation 2022.

Parsippany Police Department Honors Two of Their Own at Retirement Walkouts: McCarthy and Armenti

By
Patrick Minutillo
-
0
Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Det. Patrick McCarthy and Acting Chief Richard Patina

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department honored two of their retiring Officers with a ceremonial walk-out, on Friday, September 30.

Detective Patrick McCarthy, a 25-year veteran, and Officer Thomas Armenti, with 22 years, will be officially retiring effective October 1, leaving the department with a complement of eighty-five active Officers.

Det. McCarthy with his family

Det. McCarthy was most recently assigned as the School Resource Officer for Brooklawn Junior High School, and Officer Armenti was assigned to the patrol division. Both well liked Officers leave following many years of honorable service to the community, and their accumulated knowledge and experience will certainly be missed among their law enforcement family.

Det. McCarthy began his law enforcement in Parsippany where he was hired as a Special Officer in 1993, from there he became a Police Dispatcher, finally being sworn in as a full time Officer in 1997. Parsippany Acting Police Chief Richard Pantina was clearly sincere in his comments praising both Officers and expressed that he is personally going to feel the void with the retirement of McCarthy as both a respected colleague and friend.

Officer Tom Armenti with fellow officers.

Officer Armenti began his career in 2001 with the Orange Police Department and transferred over to Parsippany Police Department in 2004, where he has been primarily assigned to the patrol division through his time in Parsippany. Armenti comes from a law enforcement background, as his father was a Captain with the Newark Police Department. Acting Police Chief Pantina praised Officer Armenti for his service and presented him with a plaque.

Retired Police Officer Thomas Armenti

There was plenty of pageantry and smiles at the walk-out ceremony, complete with traditional pipes and drums, a sign off radio call from Headquarters signaling the end of a career, the presentation of P.B.A. Silver Cards by P.B.A. Delegate David Cavaliere, plaques, shadow boxes, honorary salutes, and accolades from fellow officers, and of course, a gathered crowd of family, friends, and co-workers enjoying the ceremonies.

Despite the fanfare, retirement is always a bittersweet event for both the retiree and those co-workers they have spent so many years working, and bonding with, in all sorts of situations, good and bad. Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James R. Barberio was also on hand to recognize and thank both Officers for their many years of service.

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, it was noted that the Police Department presently has eighty-five active officers, despite a Table of Organization calling for a full complement of 113.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Officer Thomas Armenti and Acting Police Chief Richard Pantina

Speaking to Mayor James Barberio regarding the understaffing of the agency, which was created over the past several years due to various reasons, he acknowledged the need for more sworn officers in the Township and stated that he has been working on that issue since taking office this past year, and that the Township is currently in the process of hiring ten Officers. That is certainly good news for the Township and for the police department.

Congratulations to Detective McCarthy and Officer Armenti. Have a long, healthy, happy, and productive retirement.

Bagpipe and Drum: Steve Moran, Jeff Korger, Joe Puso, and John Fox.

Justice Department Secures Agreement with Lakeland Bank to Address Discriminatory

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Lakeland Bank located at 321 West Main Street, Boonton

MORRIS COUNTY — The Justice Department announced an agreement to resolve allegations that Lakeland Bank (Lakeland) engaged in a pattern or practice of lending discrimination by “redlining” in the Newark metropolitan area, including neighborhoods in Essex, Somerset and Union counties in New Jersey. This resolution is part of the Justice Department’s nationwide Combating Redlining Initiative and represents the third-largest redlining settlement in department history.

“Financial institutions that refuse to provide mortgage lending services to communities of color not only contribute to the persistent racial wealth gap that exists in this country, but also violate federal law,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The agreement with Lakeland announced today represents the Justice Department’s continued commitment to addressing modern-day redlining, and to ensuring that all Americans have equal opportunity to obtain credit, no matter their race or national origin.”

“Ending redlining is a critical step in our work to close the widening gaps in wealth between communities of color and others,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This settlement demonstrates our firm commitment to combating modern day redlining and holding banks and other lenders accountable when they deny people of color equal access to lending opportunities. Through this agreement, we are sending a strong message to the financial industry that we will not stand for discriminatory and unlawful barriers in residential mortgage lending.”

“Redlining creates an unequal playing field that unfairly prevents many persons of color from achieving the dream of home ownership, and this type of systemic and intentional discrimination cannot and will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger for the District of New Jersey. “It is wholly unacceptable that redlining persists into the 21st Century, and this case demonstrates our commitment to combating redlining and hold banks and others accountable when they engage in unlawful discrimination. Through this agreement, we are taking a major step forward by removing unlawful and discriminatory barriers in residential mortgage lending.”

Redlining is an illegal practice in which lenders avoid providing credit services to individuals living in communities of color because of the race, color or national origin of the residents in those communities. The complaint filed in federal court today alleges that from at least 2015 to 2021, Lakeland failed to provide mortgage lending services to Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in the Newark, metropolitan area, that all its branches were located in majority-white neighborhoods and that its loan officers did not serve the credit needs of Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in and around Newark.

Under the proposed consent order, which is subject to court approval and was filed today in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey along with a complaint, Lakeland has agreed to do the following:

  • Invest at least $12 million in a loan subsidy fund for residents of Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in the Newark area; $750,000 for advertising, outreach and consumer education; and $400,000 for development of community partnerships to provide services that increase access to residential mortgage credit.
  • Open two new branches in neighborhoods of color, including at least one in the city of Newark; ensure at least four mortgage loan officers are dedicated to serving all neighborhoods in and around Newark; and employ a full-time Community Development Officer who will oversee the continued development of lending in neighborhoods of color in the Newark area.
  • Maintain an expanded Community Reinvestment Act Assessment Area that includes Essex, Somerset and Union counties.

Lakeland has agreed to settle this matter without contested litigation and worked cooperatively with the department to remedy the redlining concerns that were identified.

In October 2021, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland launched the Justice Department’s Combating Redlining Initiative, a coordinated enforcement effort to address this persistent form of discrimination against communities of color. The initiative is expanding the department’s reach by strengthening partnerships with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices around the country, regulatory partners and its partners in state Attorneys General offices. Since the initiative was launched, the department has announced four redlining cases and settlements with a combined $38 million in relief for communities that have been the victims of lending discrimination. This includes the $20 million settlement with Trident Mortgage Company — the second largest settlement in Justice Department history.

Additional information about the section’s fair lending enforcement can be found by clicking here. Individuals may report lending discrimination by calling the Justice Department’s housing discrimination tip line at 1-833-591-0291, or submitting a report online. Individuals may also report civil rights violations by clicking here or call the U.S. Attorney’s Civil Rights Hotline at (855) 281-3339.

Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Installs New Executive Board; Honors Members

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
The new Executive Board of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery was sworn in

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio installed the new officers of Parsippany Rescue and Recovery on Friday, September 23 at a dinner held at Hanover Manor.

Mayor James Barberio performing the oath of office to thee Executive Board of Rescue and Recovery and Rockaway Neck Ambulance

The new officers are Billy Sanford, President; Rafael Ortiz, Secretary; Andrew Ludwig, Treasurer and Jack Giannetti, Sergeant At Arms. In addition Louis Yuliano, Chief; John Bota, Deputy Chief; Jack Giannetti, Captain and Paul Anderson, Lieutenant.

Billy Sanford, President, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery was presented with a plaque for 30 years of service. Mayor James Barberio congratulates him for the years of service

Also the following members were honored for their years of service:

5 years of service Andrew Ludwig
5 years of service Josh Levine
5 years of service Dan Morgan
5 years of service Paul Anderson
5 years of service John Bota
10 years of service Louis Yuliano
15 years of service Rafael Ortiz
15 years of service Andreas Zaharopoulos
15 years of service John Tranculov
20 years of service John Walsh
20 years of service Rick Shearstone
20 years of service Rich Niclaus
25 years of service Steve Stratigis
25 years of service Chuck Sorce
30 years of service Billy Sanford
30 years of service Jack Giannetti
30 years of service Brian Sysko
35 years of service Joe Bellardino
45 years of service John Larick
50 years of service Herb Feinstein
SILVER STAR award Lee Keimel (1 year as Chief and 1 year as President)
SILVER STAR award Jack Giannetti (4 year as Chief and 3 year as President)
SILVER STAR award Rick Shearstone (1 year as Chief and 10 year as President)
SILVER STAR award Jack Giannetti (4 year as Chief and 3 year as President)
DOUBLE SILVER STAR award Charlie Bedi (5 year as Chief and 19 year as President)

Mr. and Mrs. Justin Musella
Pj Thurkauf and Jennifer Kratt Thurkauf on the dancefloor
Nicole Anderson with her husband Paul, Lieutenant,
Paul Anderson, Lieutenant, and Andrew Ludwig, Treasurer, on the dance floor
Lindsay Nicosia and Nicola Yuliano

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 stations that are strategically placed in town which allows 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 six fire departments, two ambulance squads and one EMS in our town. 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 dance floor was very busy
Billy Sanford, President, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery and Louis Yuliano, Chief, Parsippany Rescue and Recovery
Debbie Coppola-Whiting with Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr.
Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Paul Carifi, Jr., Debbie Coppola-Whiting, Sandy Neglia and Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Frank Neglia. Standing: Dee dePierro, Parsippany-Troy Hills Vice President Loretta Gragnani and Billy Sanford

Houlihan’s Abruptly Closed Its Doors

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Houlihan's abruptly closed the Parsippany location on Thursday, September 29

PARSIPPANY — Houlihan’s abruptly closed its doors on Thursday, September 30. The sign was removed off the building, the sign on Route 46 was painted white and a sign was posted on window.

The post on the door

The post on the door read “We’re Closed. We are deeply saddened to announce the permanent closure of this location. We value our employees, their dedication to the company and we are working to relocate them immediately to one of our many sisten locations nearby. We are grateful for the support of our community and encourage local patron to visit our sister locations in Ramsey, Secaucus or Paramus.”

It was obvious that employees in the Parsippany location didn’t know of the closing, because on Sunday, they participated in the Parsippany Fall Festival, advertising for help as well handing out coupons to the public.

A post on Parsippany Focus Facebook page by Cheri Will Costello said “My son got a call Tuesday to come in tonight [Thursday] for a job interview. We show up and the signs are posted. Why were they advertising “Hiring” just this past Sunday at the fair?!

Paul Anderson said  “We just got a ton of coupons for free kids meals and other things from them at the street fair!”

Ramsey, Secaucus, New Brunswick, Holmdel and Paramus and well as a location in New York are still open.

The Parsippany location, among others, were previously owned A.C.E. Restaurant Group Inc. and was sold in 2018 to Landry’s. Houlihan’s Restaurants, Inc., a diversified restaurant company acquired the 17 Houlihan’s restaurants located in New York and New Jersey owned by A.C.E. Restaurant Group (ACE), ACE was the single largest Houlihan’s franchisee. The location opened in 2014. (Click here to read related article)

Houlihan’s is part of the Landry’s, Inc., located in Houston, Texas.

Parsippany Focus reached out to their corporate office to inquire about the Parsippany location and was told “no comment.”

The sign on Route 46 was painted to remove the Houlihan’s logo

Landry is in the hospitality, entertainment and gaming business. Some of the other restaurant groups owned by Landry include The Chart House, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company,  Bristol Seafood Group, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, Joe’s Crab Shack, Landry’s Seafood House, and McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood and Steak.

A.C.E. Restaurant Group Inc, in 2018, owned 15 Houlihan’s restaurants across the state and was fined and agreed to pay $5 million in back wages and damages to more than 1,000 workers after allegedly denying overtime pay and forcing workers to pay twice for shift meals. The restaurants were accused by the Department of Labor in 2015 of violating the Fair Labor Standards Act.

The US Department of Labor filed a lawsuit against two companies — one in New Jersey and another in New York — that are owned by Arnold Runestad of Bergen County, who was President of A.C.E.

The New Jersey restaurants include locations in Bayonne, Brick, Bridgewater, Cherry Hill, Eatontown, Fairfield, Hasbrouck Heights, Holmdel, Lawrenceville, Metuchen/Woodbridge, New Brunswick, Paramus, Parsippany, Ramsey, Secaucus and Weehawken, according to the labor department.

A.C.E. Restaurant Group was based in Saddle Brook, while another company owned by Runestad operated two Houlihan’s in New York.

Between the 17 locations, there were 1,471 current and former employees affected, according to officials.

Sherrill Tests Positive for COVID-19

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill

PARSIPPANY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) released the following statement after testing positive for COVID-19:

“This morning, I tested positive for COVID-19 and am experiencing mild symptoms. I am thankful for having received both my COVID-19 vaccine and being current on my boosters for the additional protection they provide. I encourage everyone to get vaccinated and get your booster shot this fall.”

Representative Mikie Sherrill’s district office is located at 8 Wood Hollow Road, Suite 203.

Faith Leaders Share the Parsippany Fall Festival

By
Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Vicar Psomi Psomas-Jackloski of St. Andrews Lutheran Church, Rabbi Moshe Rudin of Congregation Adath Shalom and Pastor Marissa van Der Valk of Parsippany United Methodist Church

PARSIPPANY — Vicar Psomi Psomas-Jackloski of St. Andrews Lutheran Church, Rabbi Moshe Rudin of Congregation Adath Shalom and Pastor Marissa van Der Valk of Parsippany United Methodist Church enjoy a stroll during the Parsippany Troy Hills Fall Festival.

All three clergy are members of the Parsippany Interfaith Council along with other faith leaders in the township. The Interfaith Council fosters dialogue and works with civil leaders in serving the community in a variety of ways.

The Interfaith Council will be sponsoring an Interfaith Thanksgiving Gathering at the Parsippany United Methodist Church on Tuesday, November 22 at 7:30 p.m.

1...888990...587Page 89 of 587

EDITOR PICKS

POLICE AND FIRE

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

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.

Contact us: news@parsippanyfocus.com

FOLLOW US

© 2024 Zoomus Marketing, LLC.

Translate »