Volunteers from Kiwanis Club prepare dinner at Homeless Solutions

PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany cooked dinner for the clients of Homeless Solutions on Saturday, October 27.

The Kiwanis Club has been providing meals to Homeless Solutions for the past 17 years and have served over 7,000 meals. Members volunteer their time to shop, cook and serve the dinner.

This month, volunteers Ann Cucci, Carol Tiesi, Nicolas Limano and Kiwanis Past-President Frank Cahill prepared a nice hot delicious dinner.

The Littleton School K-Kids designed and made colorful placemats to dress up the tables at Homeless Solutions. They also made festive roll ups using fall decorated napkins. K-Kids Advisor Carol Tiesi also brought candy for the guests to enjoy after dinner.

Kiwanis Club volunteers Nicolas Limanov, Ann Cucci and Carol Tiesi
Littleton K-Kids make placemats to be used at the Homeless Shelter
Littleton K-Kids make placemats to be used at the Homeless Shelter

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany purchases all the food used by the volunteers.

The group of volunteers meet at Homeless Solutions to start preparing dinner for the guests in the transitional housing program. The group prepared a fresh fruit salad, tossed salad with a homemade dressing prepared by Ann Cucci, baked ziti with meatballs and rolls and served vanilla cheesecake for dessert. They also served iced tea and coffee. Other volunteer groups such as St. Ann’s Church, Kiwanis Club of Morristown, prepares dinner for the shelter on other days of the month. Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has been providing meals to Homeless Solutions for the past eleven years.

Interested in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, contact President Karen DeChristopher, by emailing karen.dechristopher@gmail.com.

Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46. Join us for breakfast to learn more about our group of volunteers.

Cake
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany menu
Littleton K-Kids Advisor Carol Tiesi brought candy to distribute to the guests
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Volunteer Ann Cucci preparing the tossed salad
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany Volunteer Ann Cucci cutting the cake to serve to the clients

The mission of Homeless Solutions is to offer shelter, services, and supportive housing to homeless and low-income people. For the homeless and working poor in our community, hope begins at Homeless Solutions, Inc. Homeless Solutions is a private, non-profit organization, helping those in need for past 30 years. In 2012, they served 267 people by providing emergency shelter and transitional housing. Their case managers offer the support needed to help the guests rebuild their lives and successfully return to independent living. They also develop permanent supportive housing that is energy efficient for very low, low, and moderate income families and individuals. They provided homes people can afford to 119 people in 2012. By supporting HSI through financial donations or volunteering, they are making a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need in our community. For more information on Homeless Solutions, click here.

Three Reason to Donate to Homeless Solutions:

When you donate to Homeless Solutions, you make a tangible difference in the life of someone in need in our community. Your donations –

Buy milk for children living in shelter.
Pay for childcare so a single parent can work.
Pay for gas for our shelter vans that take guests to public transportation to get to work and to medical appointments.

Click here to make a donation to Homeless Solutions.

Wise Animal Rescue held “Pancake” Fundraiser

PARSIPPANY — Wise Animal Rescue held a “Pancake” Fundraiser at Applebee’s, 1057 Route 46.

Many animal lovers attended the fundraiser and enjoyed the Applebee’s Breakfast consisting of Pancakes, Scrambled Eggs, Sausage and a beverage.

Wise Animal Rescue (W.A.R.) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of dogs of all breeds. We are comprised of a network of caring people with a grassroots approach working towards a world where no dog is neglected, abused, or homeless.

W.A.R. rescues dogs of all ages and breeds from unsafe environments as well as those who are abandoned or surrendered. Partnering with veterinary practices that support their work, they are able to save dogs’ lives and restore them back to health. Central to their mission is to ensure that all dogs are spayed/neutered, up to date on shots, and microchipped. Dogs are placed into responsible loving foster homes to be socialized and trained until they can be placed in a safe, permanent home.

W.A.R. invests time and energy into the raising of awareness, education, and advocacy on behalf of neglected, surrendered, and abandoned dogs. Included in their mission is to make the public aware of the myriad of problems resulting from backyard breeding, puppy mills, and the cruel and inhumane practice of dog baiting and dog fighting. Specifically, we are committed to advocating for and educating about dogs categorized as bully breed mixes that suffer an undeserved negative image which results in them facing unwarranted and unjust prejudice.

For more information on adopting or fostering a dog from Wise Animal Rescue, click here.

Woman’s Club collecting used eyeglasses, hearing aids and jewelry

PARSIPPANY — The GFWC Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is collecting used eyeglasses, hearing aids and jewelry to be donated to New Eyes for the Needy.

New Eyes for the Needy is a not for profit organization founded in 1932 to improve the vision of the poor.  New prescriptions eyeglasses are provided through a voucher program for Children and Adults in the United States who cannot afford glasses on their own.

They operate primarily through volunteer efforts and are overseen by a Board of Trustees.

The Woman’s Club has placed collection boxes at Boiling Springs Saving Bank, 66 North Beverwyck Road, Lake Hiawatha and Cerbo Lumber, 1855 Route 46 East.

Your donation will help the Woman’s Club help others.  For further information about the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills email womansclubofpth@gmail.com.

Conagra Brands Completes Acquisition Of Pinnacle Foods

PARSIPPANY — Conagra Brands, Inc. announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Pinnacle Foods. The closing of the transaction follows the approval of Pinnacle Foods’ shareholders and satisfaction of all terms and conditions. Pinnacle Foods is located at 339 Jefferson Road.

Through the acquisition, Conagra Brands adds iconic brands to its portfolio, including Birds EyeDuncan HinesEarth Balance and Vlasic, as well as emerging brands, such as GardeinGlutinoUdi’sWish-Bone and EVOL, among others.

“Expanding Conagra Brands’ portfolio through the acquisition of Pinnacle Foods creates a tremendous opportunity to drive profitable growth and shareholder value by further leveraging our proven approach to innovation, brand-building, operational excellence and deep customer relationships,” said Sean Connolly, president and chief executive officer of Conagra Brands. “We are excited to combine the Pinnacle and Conagra Brands portfolios in the attractive frozen meals and snacks and sweet treats categories. The complementary brands, operations and results-oriented cultures will help facilitate an effective integration and the continued transformation of Conagra Brands.”Conagra Brands, Inc. headquartered in Chicago, is one of North America’s leading branded food companies. Guided by an entrepreneurial spirit, Conagra Brands combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus on innovation. The company’s portfolio is evolving to satisfy people’s changing food preferences. Conagra’s iconic brands, such as Birds Eye®, Duncan Hines®, Healthy Choice®, Marie Callender’s®, Reddi-wip®, and Slim Jim®, as well as emerging brands, including Angie’s® BOOMCHICKAPOP®, Duke’s®, Earth Balance®, Gardein®, and Frontera®, offer choices for every occasion.

Candy Land: A spectacular Christmas Adventure

PARSIPPANY — A Candy Land Christmas will have kids advance across Candy Land on a spectacular Christmas Adventure. This fun day will take place on December 1, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon.

Each stop on the journey, kids will meet up with kooky characters and take part in fun crafts and eat yummy snacks.

The adventure will also include fun games, a scavenger hunt, photo booth, and puppet skits. Parents are invited to join in the fun along with their kids.

This sweet day is for all children ages 4-12 and is free. Registration is a must by November 25.  You may register online by clicking here.

Candy Land will be held at Living Waters Church, 649 Vail Road. Not a drop-off event. Please enjoy the event with your children.

William Schievella, Former Morris County Undersheriff, Endorses Mikie Sherrill

MORRIS COUNTY — William Schievella, a law enforcement professional with over two decades of experience in Northern New Jersey, announced his endorsement of U.S. Navy veteran and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikie Sherrill for New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District.

Candidate Mikie Sherrill

Schievella served as the Undersheriff and Chief Warrant Officer at the Morris County Sheriff’s Office from 2015 to 2017. Prior to that, he was the Chief of Detectives in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office from 2007 to 2013. He is currently the Director of Communications & Community Policing in the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, and the Director of the Police Studies Institute at the College of Saint Elizabeth in Morristown.

“I first met Mikie Sherrill when she was a federal prosecutor and I was instantly impressed by her commitment to service and justice,” said William Schievella. “I know that she will be a fighter for New Jersey and support our police officers and law enforcement officials in the 11th District and beyond. I know that Mikie Sherrill puts the people of this community ahead of any party label, and that’s why I’m proud to endorse her bid for Congress.”

“I’m honored to have William Schievella’s support,” said Mikie Sherrill. “He has served the state of New Jersey for years, including a decade in Morris County. His work has made New Jersey safer, and I hope to work together to continue making our community a better place to live.”

Council introduces resolution “Prohibition on Single-use Plastics”

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council introduced a resolution “Expressing Its Support for Senate Bill No. 2776 (2018) proposing a “Prohibition on Single-Use Plastics.”

Senators Bob Smith and Linda Greenstein have sponsored Senate Bill No. 2776, which proposes a prohibition on single-use of plastic carryout bags, expanded polystyrene food containers and single use plastic straws. The senate bill was introduced on June 25, 2018.

Click here to read Senate Bill.

The bill would prohibit stores and food service businesses from providing single use plastic carryout bags to their customers; Any person from selling or offering for sale in the State any expanded polystyrene (known as Styrofoam) single-use food service product containers; Any food service business from selling or providing any food in any single-use expanded polystyrene food service product container; and any food service business from selling or providing single-use plastic straws to customers.

The resolution stated “Single-use plastic waste creates significant litter problems in Parsippany neighborhoods, also litter parks, sewer systems and Passaic, Whippany and Rockaway Rivers. The disposal of single-use plastic waste created an impediment to achievement of Parsippany’s environmental goals.

The reduction in single-use plastic waste would help to protect the marine environment, advance solid waste reduction, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and keep waterways clean.

As part of the Senate bill “A person who violates any provision of the bill would be subject to a penalty of up to $5,000 for each offense, and each day during which the violation continues would constitute a separate offense.”

The resolution passed 5-0 and Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Clerk Khaled Madin will forward a copy of the resolution to the Governor of the State of New Jersey, Lieutenant Governor of the State of New Jersey, Senators Smith and Greenstein, the members of the Morris County Legislative Delegation, members of the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Mayor and Council of all municipalities within Morris County.

 

Letter to the editor: No political events should be held at public library

parsippany focusDear Editor:

Monday morning, October 29, 2018, I read an article by a New Jersey news media that Robert Menendez US senate candidate had a political rally attended by Governor Murphy at Parsippany Main Library.

I was quite disturbed, because ten years ago Republican candidates from Morris County had a rally at the same place and I expressed my consternation to the Library Director that such events should not be held at any library for several reasons: The library is a facility of learning, a quiet atmosphere and what security measures were in place to ensure the safety of the libraries occupants.

The Library Director ten years ago committed to me that no such events would occur again at the library.

The town council should pass ordinance banning such events at any public facilities. To the best of my knowledge no political events were every held at public facilities by  republican township candidates.

Roy Messmer

 

Authorities Seeking Public Assistance in Locating Missing 15 Year Old Male

Thomas Kolding

MOUNTAIN LAKES — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Mountain Lakes Police Chief Shawn Bennett are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a 15 year old male from Mountain Lakes, who has been missing since Tuesday, October 30.

Thomas Kolding, who lives in Mountain Lakes with his parents, was last known to be at his family home on October 30.

It is believed that Kolding may have travelled by train from Denville to Newark – Broad Street Station. From there, he is believed to have travelled by train from Broad Street Station to New York Penn Station. His location is unknown from that point.

However, the investigation revealed that Kolding had a strong interest in travelling to California.

Kolding is a 15 year old white male. He has brown hair and brown eyes. He weighs approximately 120 lbs and is five foot three in height. He was last seen wearing a camouflage jacket, gray winter skull cap and carrying a large black backpack.

Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to call Mt. Lakes Police at (973) 334-1413.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to make contact with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Missing Persons Unit On-Call Detective through the Morris County Communications Center at (973) 285-2900, or email Detective/Supervisor Leah Atterbury at latterbury@co.morris.nj.us, or contact the Mountain Lakes Police Department at 973-334-1413, specifically Detective John Hukowski.

Anyone with information who may be seeking to remain anonymous can contact Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers at www.copcall.org, (973) COP-CALL, or the free “P3 Tips” app on any mobile device.

Thomas Kolding

Verona Resident arrested for CDS

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Patrol Officer E. Elston was patrolling the area of New Road on Wednesday, October 31 at 11:19 p.m. when he observed a 2002 Acura MDX with an equipment violation. He conducted a motor vehicle stop and made contact with the driver, Kristie Errico, 32, Verona.

After a brief investigation it was determined that she was driving on a suspended license and had two outstanding warrants for her arrest issued by the Totowa Municipal Court. She was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters for processing.

While in custody Ms. Errico was found to be in possession of the following:
• 16 Wax Folds of suspected heroin
• 12 syringes, of which 10 contained suspected heroin
• 4 vials of suspected cocaine
• Multiple pieces of drug paraphernalia

She was subsequently charged with the following:
• 1 count of 3rd Degree Possession of CDS (Cocaine)
• 1 count of 3rd Degree Possession of CDS (Heroin)
• Failure to Make Lawful Disposition of CDS, a Disorderly Persons Offense
• Possession of a Hypodermic Needle, a Disorderly Persons Offense
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a Disorderly Persons Offense

She was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending her court appearance.

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