Adam J. Gragnani Passed Away Peacefully

Frank L. Cahill
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Adam J. Gragnani Passed Away Peacefully

PARSIPPANY — Adam Gragnani, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend to many, was called home to be with the Lord peacefully, after a brief illness, on Saturday, December 17, surrounded by his loving family.

Adam was born September 29, 1938, in Brooklyn, New York, to Eufemio and Rosa (Butera) Gragnani. He was the youngest of five children, three of which pre-deceased him, Clotilda, Frank, and Frosina. He is survived by a sister, Maria Mulcahy, and a sister-in-law, Jeanne Gragnani.

Adam served honorably in the United States Navy and was a veteran of the Vietnam War.

He was President of Loris Data Corporation with his dear friend and partner, Dominick LePore. Loris Data Corp. was a computer consulting firm having Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Newark, as one of their primary clients.

In earlier years, Adam enjoyed being a C.Y.O. basketball coach at St. Peter’s Church in Parsippany. He was an outstanding member of The Sons of Italy and The 200 Club.

Adam was a devoted parishioner at St. Ann Church for over thirty years, where he also served as a Eucharistic Minister.

He was involved with the Republican Party and served as a Committeeman in District 23.

Adam was an avid golfer and respected member of The Knoll Country Club in Parsippany for nearly 35 years. For thirty of those, his foursome enjoyed a standing 7:32 a.m. starting time each Saturday morning.

Loretta and Adam Gragnani

Adam is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Loretta (DeLio) Gragnani; their two devoted sons, Andrew Gragnani; daughter-in-law, Sophia, son Peter Gragnani; daughter-in-law, Ferlana; three cherished grandchildren, Christopher Adam and John Peter, and Anna Maria. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Daniel DeLio, and his wife, Debra. Sister-in-law Phyllis (DeLio) Krok and her husband, Richard, and many beloved nieces, nephews, as well as great nieces and great nephews.

Adam will forever be remembered as an extremely warm and caring man with a heart of gold. He lived his life in an exemplary manner and loved unconditionally. Adam had the utmost devotion to his faith and his family.

Adam and Loretta Gragnani

Relatives and Friends are invited to attend his Funeral on Friday, December 23, at 8:30 a.m. from the Par-Troy Funeral Home, 95 Parsippany Road, Parsippany. His Liturgy of Christian Burial is to be offered at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Ann R.C. Church, 781 Smith Road, Parsippany. The interment is at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Hanover.

Visiting hours are Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Par-Troy Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital P.O. Box 1000 Dept. 300, Memphis, TN 38148.

Loretta and Adam

Morris County School of Technology Educational Services Professional of the Year

Frank L. Cahill
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Morris County School of Technology Educational Services Professional of the Year

MORRIS COUNTY — School Counselor Jennifer Katz has announced the Morris County School of Technology (MCST) Educational Services Professional of the Year.

Ms. Katz has been a School Counselor at the Morris County School of Technology for 13 years and has been instrumental in establishing and implementing the school’s guidance program. In her role as a counselor, Ms. Katz advocates for her students and provides a safe and warm environment for all. She displays an innate ability to empathize, care for, and support others. She listens and counsels without judgment and fosters a sense of independence, motivation, and growth.

“Ms. Katz is our 2022-2023 Educational Services Professional of the Year because she always starts with the heart,” said Lynne Jackson, Principal at Morris County School of Technology.

Counseling in today’s climate is difficult and requires wearing many hats; this is one of Ms. Katz’s greatest strengths. In her position as a college advisor, working on college prep and the application process, she has aided hundreds of students in achieving their post-secondary goals.

Ms. Katz is also willing to help her students, parents, and colleagues. Her collaboration with families, coworkers, and stakeholders is unmatched. “Ms. Katz epitomizes excellence in school counseling in every aspect of her job,” said Athena Borzeka, Director of Student Services & Special Education. She takes on all her roles with willingness and ease. She works extremely hard to ensure her students’ academic, emotional, and social well-being and success. Ms. Katz credits her co-counselors and supervisor for their constant support and contributions in making the MCST guidance department successful.

The Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) offers career and technical education programs for Morris County high school students. The Morris County School of Technology, located in Denville, offers a wide range of these programs, from auto service and construction trades to healthcare sciences and design. The high school currently has ten full-time academies and ten share-time programs on its Denville campus. In addition, through collaboration with local school districts and the County College of Morris, MCVSD offers six full-time academies and five share-time programs established at off-site satellite locations. Learn more by clicking here.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – December 20, 2022

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – December 20, 2022

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Council Meeting will hold an Agenda meeting on Tuesday, December 20, 2022.

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

Click here to download the agenda.

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

Click here to download the 2022 agenda schedule.

Mayor and Council

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

New Jersey Has Ambitions to Become a Crypto Hub

Focus contributor
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New Jersey Has Ambitions to Become a Crypto Hub

These days, we’re seeing growing numbers of cryptocurrency companies, exchange platforms, and individual miners break into the marketplace. The culture around digital assets is part of their appeal. When you purchase Ethereum, for instance, you’re buying into an entire scene. The world of crypto requires a network or coalition of regional hubs performing different functions to run a flawless and value-added ecosystem. Crypto hubs appear where they can find tax and regulatory benefits, diverse and immersive communities, not to mention stable energy grids. Evolving consumer needs are fueling industry change; for long-term success, it’s necessary to provide an outstanding customer experience.  Click here for the Current Ethereum price.

Crypto enthusiasts may want to consider moving to New Jersey, which wants to cement itself as a key player for cryptocurrency-related businesses. It’s an investment for the future, the shape of which isn’t clear at this point. New Jersey has ambitions to become a crypto hub yet hasn’t been friendly towards digital assets due to their volatile nature. Nevertheless, it has openly shown its approval of blockchain technology and supported TIE, a group that fosters entrepreneurship via mentoring, networking, education, funding, and incubation. The crypto industry will continue to develop and expand in New Jersey. 

Last November, New Jersey Introduced A Bill to Regulate the Blockchain 

Regulators at the federal level ensure effective oversight of cryptocurrencies. Still, there are very few clear rules for businesses to follow. This lack of regulation impedes economic growth by creating an excessive burden for economic actors. Many states have addressed legislation regarding digital assets, following different paths. In November 2022, the New Jersey Senate introduced the “Virtual Currency and Blockchain Regulation Act” that, if enacted, would establish a regulatory framework for virtual currency businesses and transactions. To be more precise, it would recognize DAOs as legal entities, allow organizations to issue electronic stock certificates, and make tax incentives available to businesses using blockchain technology.  

In recent years, people have been fascinated with blockchain technology, particularly Ethereum and NFTs. The state government has taken into account regulations to ensure the investing public is protected against misconduct, including deceit, misrepresentations, and so forth. New Jersey wants to lead the way into a new way of thinking and provide crypto-friendly regulations. Under the new act, an individual can’t engage in any activity involving cryptocurrencies unless licensed by the Department of Banking and Insurance. What is more, officials would be prohibited from accepting digital assets and NFTs as gifts, the benefit of which is avoiding capital gains tax. 

What Creates the Perfect Environment for Crypto Company Headquarters? 

Proponents of crypto assets and stablecoins argue they have the potential to increase the efficiency of financial transactions, particularly international transactions that involve high fees and several days to complete. Stablecoins, as their name clearly suggests, try to peg their value to a reserve asset such as fiat currency. The Ethereum blockchain is the most popular option for stablecoins, driving decentralized finance. Tether, for instance, is pegged to the US dollar. Wrapped Ethereum is similar to stablecoins in the sense that it’s pegged to ETH. In spite of the general volatility of cryptocurrencies, Ether is one of the most stable coins. Check the current Ethereum price and see for yourself. 

There’s no set blueprint for the perfect crypto hub, but there are some fundamental principles all crypto hubs must hold close to their hearts. 

A Business-Friendly Regulatory Environment

Cryptocurrency is an effective option to attract investors, increase earnings and diversify the economy. One of the constituents of success of a crypto hub is the design of a regulatory system that encourages investments and levels the playing field for all businesses. It should encourage individuals to set up their own businesses, try new ideas, and take on calculated risks. New Jersey has already made a step in this direction by pushing through Senate Bill No. 4163. Crypto companies might soon have a legislative framework to keep operations efficient and expenses low. 

A Stable Power Grid

The rapid growth in cryptocurrency operations can destabilize the power grid, so it’s crucial to have a stable power source. If more money is invested into energy efficiency, we could witness a decrease in power consumption. By supplying renewable energy, for instance, we can fight the climate crisis and reap the economic benefits of the crypto industry. There needs to be a balance in consumption and production within the electrical grid. Electricity can’t be stored in the power grid. Mining can rely on solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal renewable energy systems. 

A Supportive Local Community

Numerous people embrace cryptocurrency, but opinions are divided. It goes without saying that a crypto hub can develop and expand only if there’s a supportive local community. Simply put, a crypto hub needs a group of individuals who have a commitment to blockchain technology. Diversity of thought, illustrated by a wide array of mindsets, provides fertile ground for achieving innovation. One of the most interesting use cases for blockchain technology is local communities. Cryptocurrency can help bring people together, and regional economies can grow in a sustainable way, not to say that they better withstand market shocks.  

What’s Next for Blockchain Technology After New Jersey Legislation? 

In this fast-changing world of technology, state (and local) governments must face the future with confidence by adopting cryptocurrency. An ever-increasing number of companies around the globe are using digital assets for investment, operational, and transactional purposes. The regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies will continue to evolve, meaning that businesses and investors must keep up with regulatory changes and seek advice from an experienced attorney before engaging in any transactions. Consumer protection and regulation will create a well-regulated marketplace. 

It’s hard to say how crypto enthusiasts benefit when the bill is in place. What is certain is that it will lure companies from other places and make New Jersey a center for the crypto industry. Small companies and startups will be able to engage in the industry, meaning they won’t go through a tough, burdensome process, whether financially or from a time perspective. 

Click here for the Current Ethereum price.

Letter to the Editor: Pennacchio Pushes For New Jersey to Lead in Fusion Energy

Letters to the Editor
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parsippany focusDear Editor:

This is not the answer, and it certainly isn’t clean. Nuclear Reactors produce nuclear waste.

Solar energy is green as the sun is nature’s fusion and is 93 million miles away.

Pennacchio is silent or ignorant of Proforestation and Carbon Neutral. Trees and the Remaining Forest have never been more important.

Proforestation protects natural forests to foster continuous growth, carbon accumulation, and structural complexity.

We can use our forest by allowing trees to mature to their rightful biological age to sequester carbon and plant more trees where possible. NJ can establish a Strategic Forest Reserve in its Northern Physiographic Provinces.

Using “Proforestation” as a new paradigm is cost-effective and promotes biodiversity. From Northern NJ to Southern Maine is the largest carbon sequestration and photosynthesis zone north of the Smokey Mountains and east of Montana.

Humans emit more carbon dioxide than Nature (land and oceans) removes during a single year.

Carbon neutrality is when humans release no more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than Nature, and Nature removes and stores it.

Carbon neutrality is not a goal to be achieved, but a moment in time around 2050 is followed by a net negative when humans emit less carbon dioxide than Nature is removing.

Forests are important because they remove nearly 30% of our emissions annually – the most of any ecosystem. They also store vast quantities of carbon in the wood of trees and in forest soils.

It has been found that managing forests differently to let more trees reach a large size could store twice as much as they now do.

The current practice of sustainable forestry – if practiced everywhere would keep the amount of carbon in forests forever at the current level. We need to increase the carbon stored in forests by reforestation management- letting more trees grow without harvest. Our reliance on fossil fuels has to lead to this climate crisis.

Man-induced climate change is not that hard to comprehend or understand why and how. Our so-called progress based on fossil fuels, its emissions, deforestation, and loss of planetary biodiversity have caught up with us.

Nuclear is not the answer, and never was anything other than trying to make the nuclear bombs and threats look civilized.

Pennacchio seems never to be in keeping with his times and place. Another official who does not believe in good government as intended but in private interest, subsidized by our tax dollars for little or nothing in return. Trickle Up.

Nick Homyak

CCM Rated the Best for Transfer Students for Second Consecutive Year

Frank L. Cahill
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CCM Rated the Best for Transfer Students for Second Consecutive Year

MORRIS COUNTY — The County College of Morris (CCM) has been rated the Best for Transfer Students by Intelligent, adding to the college’s growing list of accolades.
This is the second year in a row that Intelligent has rated CCM as the best community college in New Jersey for students who start at the college and then transfer to a four-year institution to earn a bachelor’s degree.

The 2023 ranking of the Best Community Colleges in New Jersey is based on the transfer agreements CCM holds with colleges and universities across the state and nation. CCM has more than 170 transfer agreements to ease the process for students who want to earn an associate then a bachelor’s degree. More than 70 percent of CCM graduates transfer to earn their bachelor’s degree within three years of graduation – enrolling in schools from New Jersey’s top colleges and universities to the Ivy League.

“CCM has made it a priority to develop transfer agreements with other institutions to ensure our students can seamlessly continue with their higher education,” notes Kari Hawkins, Coordinator of Transfer Services & University Partnerships. “We are delighted to receive this recognition as additional proof of the high-quality education and support services students receive at CCM so they can meet their educational goals.”

Besides its success at transferring students to other colleges, CCM also enrolls many students each year who begin at another institution and then decide the community college is a better fit for starting their higher education.

Along with this latest distinction from Intelligent, the college earned several other national and state rankings in 2022. Included among those, CCM was selected as a Top 10 Community College in the U.S. by the Lumina Foundation, rated the Best Community College in New Jersey by Best Accredited Colleges, and #1 For associate degree graduates in New Jersey who earned the Best Salaries by Payscale, a distinction it has received for five consecutive years.

The college is currently enrolling students for the Spring 2023 Semester. Don’t delay; enroll today so you, too, can benefit from exceptional higher education and support services designed for your success. Click here for more information.

Sherrill’s Legislation to Address Flooding Headed to President’s Desk

Frank L. Cahill
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Sherrill’s Legislation to Address Flooding Headed to President’s Desk

PARSIPPANY — Rep. Mikie Sherrill, D-11, chair of the House Science, Space, and Technology’s Environment Subcommittee, secured House passage of two bipartisan bills she introduced to address flooding, the most widespread of all weather-related natural disasters in New Jersey and across the United States.

This legislative package will head to the President’s desk for his signature after Senate action later this week, according to a press release issued Thursday, December 15.

“Unexpected severe rainfall and flooding are costly and upend the lives of New Jersey families. Recent extreme weather events like Hurricane Ida only underscore the importance of an effective understanding and response to high water,” said Rep. Sherrill. “These common-sense bills will protect lives, homes, and neighborhoods by improving forecasting and communication of extreme weather events to serve at-risk areas better. I am proud we were able to advance this legislation for New Jerseyans and all Americans who face dangers from these natural disasters.”

“Updating the data we rely on to determine flood elevations and manage the stormwater runoff will help flood-prone communities to protect their homes and businesses better, enabling New Jersey and our nation to become more resilient to the increasing extreme weather we are experiencing,” said Commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Shawn M. LaTourette.

“Accurate precipitation data are among the most overlooked and highest reward opportunities to ensure our cities and towns are built for a future of more frequent and intense rainfall,” said Melissa Roberts, executive director of the American Flood Coalition.

“We commend Representative Sherrill for her leadership to enact bipartisan legislation to provide consistently updated, forward-looking data to inform better and protect communities on the front lines of flooding.”

“Passage of these two bills now will ultimately save thousands of lives and untold billions of dollars in taxpayer and private sector losses from flood disasters going forward,” said Chad Berginnis, executive director of the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM), which represents over 20,000 state and local floodplain officials and other floodplain management professionals, “ASFPM strongly supports both the FLOODS Act and the PRECIP Act to update and modernize basic data and information systems that underpin flood risk management efforts across the nation.”

The Flood Level Observation, Operations, and Decision Support (FLOODS) Act establishes a National Integrated Flood Information System to coordinate and integrate flood research at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It also establishes partnerships with higher education institutions to improve total water predictions. It establishes a committee to ensure coordination of federal departments with joint or overlapping responsibilities in water management. The bill is designed to improve flood risk communications, including flood watches and warnings.

First Night Morris County 2023 Offers Over 70 Performances

Frank L. Cahill
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First Night Morris County 2023 Offers Over 70 Performances

MORRIS COUNTY — As has usually been the case in recent years, First Night Morris County in Morristown will offer New Jersey’s most ambitious program of family-friendly arts events on New Year’s Eve this year, with music, comedy, film, visual arts, and children’s entertainment at various venues, some of which also will be streamed or offered on-demand, online.

The 31st annual First Night Morris County will feature more than 70 performances at more than 20 downtown venues, free parking, shuttles, and two firework displays from 4:00 p.m. to midnight Saturday, December 31, with tickets starting at $25.00.

The event brings art, film, music, comedy, and family-friendly fun to Morris County in the form of a safe, alcohol-free, and substance-free community celebration.

Fireworks over the Green are coming back this year; depending on the weather, they will occur at 9:15 p.m. and midnight.

Early bird admission runs through Wednesday, December 21, at $25.00, or $22.50 each, when purchasing four or more.

Regular admission pricing begins Thursday, December 22, and runs through the event at $30.00 per admission or $23.75 each when purchasing four or more.

To purchase tickets and for more information, click here, visit the Mayo Box Office at 100 South Street or call (973) 539-8008 during regular business hours.

With the artistic guidance Morris Arts Director of Galleries and Morris Township resident Lynn Siebert provides, the program offers numerous performance genres, including theater, music from around the world, visual arts, world cultures, and children’s programs. Mark Boutros and Don Jay Smith’s work to curate the First Night Film Festival, held in collaboration with the Thomas Edison Film Festival, First Contact Film Festival, and MCEDA Film Committee, brings over 50 films for all ages and interests.

For $25.00, First Night attendees have access to all in-person performances, the family and children’s activities at Morristown High School, the Film Festival, two firework displays, and a midnight countdown to welcome in the new year, plus a live stream and on-demand access to more than films in this year’s Film Festival, a print program, and a mobile app. First Night attendees also receive complimentary parking and free shuttles.

With the waning of COVID-19, a full schedule of family and children’s programming returns this year, providing opportunities for hands-on participation for younger art aficionados and their families. Centered at Morristown High School, the family and children’s programming begins at 4:45 p.m. and includes various interactive performances, storytelling, international dance, painting, and LEGOs.

The schedule of children and family activities includes “Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother” by Kit’s Interactive Theatre, Folktales from Around the World with storyteller Julie Pascual, Square Dancing with Mary Moody, Bollywood and Contemporary Indian Dance with Mani, Fun with LEGOs with Maniac4Bricks, Paint Night with the Artsy Palette led by artist Patty Darden, the Children’s Fun Festival with Juggles the Clown, NJ Tap Soloists Maurice Chestnut and Jeffry Foote, the Hilarious Hypnotist Show with Mr. Hypno, StoryFaces with Christopher Agostino and “Dinoman Dinosaurs!” and his life-size inflatable dinosaurs.

This jam-packed schedule of family-friendly events repeats throughout the evening to provide multiple opportunities for family fun at First Night.

First Night is welcoming back fireworks over the Green with two displays.

This year’s visual arts exhibits include the Atrium Gallery exhibit “Through Women’s Eyes” at the Morris County Administration Building. The exhibit opens at 4:00 p.m. featuring the work of five female artists: Medy Bozkurtian, Isabella Pizzano, Lisa Moran, Kay Reese, and Marilyn Greenberg. Siebert curates the gallery.

Two exhibits at the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) begin at 7:00 p.m.: The Morris County Art Association member exhibit at the Upstairs Art Gallery and Nina Nemeth’s “People and Places” at the Starlight Gallery.

Live opera performances will be provided by the Vocal Trio of Harmonious Beginnings at the Church of the Redeemer starting at 7:15 p.m. The performance delves into an array of Sacred, Broadway, Opera, and Americana with solo performances, duets, and classic presentations of three-part vocal harmony. The trio features the powerful vocal talents of performers Ted Chletsos, Lauren D’Imperio, and Stephen Lasher, accompanied by pianist Kristin Dabaghian.

Live Choral And Classical Music Performances

Live choral and classical music performances will occur at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. Leading off the evening at 7:15 p.m. with the first two performances at Saint Peter’s is one of New Jersey’s leading choral arts organizations Harmonium Choral Society, directed by Madison resident Anne Matlack.

The final two performances of the evening at Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church are courtesy of the award-winning Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey (BONJ), whose performance begins at 9:45 p.m. The orchestra, directed by Madison resident Robert Butts, explores orchestral music from the 17th through 21st Centuries.

Live reggae and Irish music performances will occur at St. Peter’s Parish House. Random Test Reggae Band will begin at 7:15 p.m. and will pay tribute to Reggae and Soca Music pioneers.

Following them will be All-Ireland Fiddling Champion Brian Conway and Kieran Flanagan beginning at 10:00 p.m.

Live Jazz Performances will take place at the United Methodist Church, featuring the new addition of Winard Harper and His Jazz Group, followed by Morristown native Rio Clemente with his band, the Bishop of Jazz, and his Abbotts.

Winard Harper and His Jazz Group will begin at 7:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church. Winard Harper studied at the Conservatory of the University of Cincinnati and Howard University. He was part of the Young Lions with his brother Phillip and members of The Harper Brothers.

Winard performs regionally and has recorded seven albums featuring a host of special guests, including his latest project, Winard Harper & Jeli Posse.

The Bishop of Jazz and his Abbotts will take the stage at the United Methodist Church beginning at 10:00 p.m. Clemente, who has performed at the White House, is an official member of the Morristown Hall of Fame and has served as music director for the Generations of Jazz program of the New Jersey Jazz Society. NJ Monthly magazine named him among its “Top 40 New Jerseyans,” and the New Jersey Jazz Society has named him “Musician of the Year.”

In-Person Film Festival 

The in-person Film Festival returns at the Hyatt Regency Morristown and the Morris County Administrative Building, featuring more films at two venues beginning at 6:00 p.m. Under the direction of Mark Boutros and advisor Don Jay Smith, this year’s Film Festival is held in collaboration with the Thomas Edison Film Festival, First Contact Film Festival, and the MCEDA Film Committee, featuring films chosen specifically for the First Night Morris County audiences.

With specific category segments for short films and feature films, each having its performance blocks, most movies are for all ages, with some for teens and adults and one for young adults and adults. All films are available on-demand through 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 1, via the First Night Morris County website or mobile app.

Performances at the Mayo Performing Arts Center begin at 7:00 p.m. This year’s program again includes both live in-person performances and a live stream, courtesy of MPAC, which is accessible through the First Night Morris County website and mobile app.

“Once again, we are thrilled to partner with the Mayo,” said First Night Morris County Chairman Walter Deutsch. “The Mayo provides a top-notch performance venue, box office, and a live stream for those who cannot attend in person. We are so grateful for their continued support.”

The first performance of the evening at 7:00 p.m. is Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix, a slapstick comedy dog show. Peers will lead more than a dozen rescue dogs through tricks as he plays the straight-man role in this family-friendly show.

Following Peers, the John Ginty Band will take the stage at 9:45 p.m. Born and raised in Morristown, John Ginty is a two-time Grammy winner and has spent decades as a session keyboardist and band member for such artists as Jewel, The Chicks, Wu-Tang Clan, Whiskeytown and The Blind Boys of Alabama.

Stand-up comedy will return to the Hyatt’s Regency Room at 7:15 p.m., opening with comedian Buddy Fitzpatrick. A regular at all the prominent showcase clubs in New York City, Fitzpatrick is a regular on Comedy Central and has made appearances on A&E’s An Evening at The Improv, Caroline’s Comedy Hour, and Gotham Comedy Live on AXS.tv. He has also appeared on The Sopranos.

Comedian Brad Trackman will take the stage at 10:00 p.m. Trackman has made many t.v. Appearances include The Late Late Show; Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen, Gotham Comedy Live, NBC’s Friday Night, Star Search, and his own Dry Bar Comedy Special. Trackman has opened for Dana Carvey, Robin Williams, Damon Wayans, and Weird Al Yankovic.

“With more performance venues than ever, this year’s event has a stellar line-up that spans too many genres to list,” said First Night Morris County Chairman Walter Deutsch. “We are very excited to bring back the children and family programming at Morristown High School and welcome back fireworks over Morristown at two points in the evening: 9:15 p.m. and midnight, offering our youngest participants an opportunity to enjoy the magnificent display.”

Click here to purchase tickets.

Dr. Sargent Received Exemplary Advocate of School Libraries Award

Frank L. Cahill
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Dr. Sargent Received Exemplary Advocate of School Libraries Award

PARSIPPANY — Dr. Barbara Sargent, Superintendent of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Schools, received the New Jersey Association of School Librarians Exemplary Advocate of School Libraries Award.

Dr. Sargent consistently advocates for school library programs, recognizes the need for certified school library personnel, and supports the central role of the school librarian in helping to develop effective school library programs that help promote student achievement.

Daydreaming Driver Causes Four Car Chain Reaction Accident

Frank L. Cahill
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Daydreaming Driver Causes Four Car Chain Reaction Accident

PARSIPPANY — On Sunday, December 11 at 12:33, a four-car chain reaction accident occurred on Route 46 at Sandra Drive due to a driver daydreaming.

Mr. Jorge Q. Ezeta-Chang, 63, was traveling slowly in the right lane of Route 46 west (just east of Sandra Drive). Mr. William Olderman, 55, was directly behind Mr. Ezeta-Chang.

Mr. Otoniel Oronzormoreno, 50, was traveling directly behind Mr. Olderman.

Mr. Erick Justnes, 24, was following Mr. Oronzormoreno’s vehicle.

Mr. Justnes then crashed into Mr. Oronzormoreno’s vehicle. Mr. Oronzormoreno’s vehicle propelled forward and crashed into Mr. Olderman’s vehicle. Then Mr. Olderman’s vehicle propelled forward and crashed into Mr. Jorge Q. Ezeta-Chang’s vehicle.

Mr. Erick Justnes stated to Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Denis DeMuro, “He observed Mr. Oronzormoreno’s vehicle stopping in front of him, but he was daydreaming and was unable to stop before the crash.

Mr. Oronzormoreno was driving a 2019 Silver Toyota 4 Runner and was towed from the scene by Eagle Towing.

Officer DeMuro determined that Mr. Erick Justnes caused the crash by following Mr. Oronzormoreno too closely.

Mr. Erick Justnes was issued a summons for (39:4-97) Careless Driving.

There were no injuries reported.

Mr. Justnes was driving a 2019 Green Chevy Sonic and was towed from the scene by Eagle Towing.  Mr. Oronzormoreno was driving a 2019 Silver Toyota 4 Runner and was towed from the scene by Eagle Towing.

Mr. Olderman and Mr. Ezeta-Chang were able to resume their Sunday travels.

Mr. Justnes was driving a 2019 Green Chevy Sonic and was towed from the scene by Eagle Towing

 

 

 

 

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