PARSIPPANY — The Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO), a peer advisory group for million dollar plus women-led companies, is proud to announce Casey Gocel Esq., a Member at Mandelbaum Salsburg P.C., a law firm based in Roseland, as the newest member of the New Jersey Chapter of the WPO.
“I am very pleased to welcome Casey Gocel to the WPO,” said Marsha Firestone, Ph.D., WPO President and Founder. “As a peer advisory organization for women business leaders of multi-million dollar companies, WPO membership is highly selective. Casey Gocel’s membership in the WPO is a testament to her incredible success in business.”
Gocel lives in Parsippany with her husband and two year old daughter, Denali. She received her Political Science B.A. in 2002 from the State University of New York in Albany before continuing on to Whittier Law School where she served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Whittier Law Review. She received her J.D., Magna cum laude in 2007. Additionally Gocel holds an LL.M. in Taxation from The New York University School of Law.
The WPO is the premier peer advisory organization connecting women who own multi-million dollar companies. In monthly meetings across six continents, chapters of 20 women presidents from diverse industries invest time and energy in themselves and their businesses to drive their corporations to the next level. Local WPO chapters are coordinated by a professional facilitator and meet monthly to share business expertise and experience in a confidential setting. For more information, call (212) 688-4114 or visit www.womenpresidentsorg.com. Follow us on Twitter @womenpresidents. Like us on Facebook at Women Presidents’ Organization.
PARSIPPANY — Honeywell International Inc. is expected to leave Morris Plains for North Carolina soon, resulting in nearly 800 jobs being lost. Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce says that New Jersey’s unfriendly business climate and tax policies are the cause.
“It is clear that Democrats do not have the ability to understand what their tax policies are doing to New Jersey,” said DeCroce (R-Morris). “People are losing their jobs, and it should be a wake-up call to residents.”
New Jersey has been ranked the worst and most expensive state to own a business by the Tax Foundation for years. In 2013 North Carolina overhauled its tax system and jumped from 44th in the nation to the third-best state to have a business. Currently, North Carolina’s corporate income tax rate is one of the lowest in the nation at three percent, and will drop to 2.5 percent in 2019 as revenues continue to increase. The state also just passed an increase in tax credits for jobs created.
New Jersey is going in a different direction, having passed the nation’s second highest corporate business tax in June. New Jersey’s corporate business tax revenue has declined four times in the past seven years.
“North Carolina continues to become more business friendly and its economy has boomed while our state languishes behind even with the national economy booming,” continued DeCroce. “Instead of raising tax rates on businesses we should be lowering them. No matter how many tax credits are granted it will never be enough to truly compete, create jobs and retain them.”
In 2015 Honeywell received a $40 million tax credit to stay in New Jersey. The company said it is relocating because it needs to be in a place more appealing to millennials as it aspires toward a more digitally driven business model.
Gov. Phil Murphy has touted New Jersey’s educated workforce as a reason for businesses to relocate here, but the state is a national leader in millennial out migration and the outmigration of college students. Murphy’s effort to make the state’s economy more technologically driven has also been undermined by Honeywell’s reason for leaving.
“The Democrats’ tax logic is a paradox. They are too cavalier in giving-out credits to lower the tax burden, and then they raise business taxes anyway. It makes no sense.
“As a small-business owner, it is incompetent and careless tax policies that are frustrating. The bottom line is that taxpayers are the ones who face the consequences of poor decision making,” concluded DeCroce.
MORRIS COUNTY — December 31, 2018 marks the 27th year of New Jersey’s biggest and brightest First Night, a New Year’s Eve family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration of the arts – with more than 100 artists, 81 events in 23 venues – representing dance, theatre, music, world cultures, visual arts and children’s programs.
For all 27 years, Morris Arts has been First Night Morris’ artistic programmer, securing topflight talents who attract thousands from throughout the state and beyond. More than half of the program features new artists (or artists returning after several years), many of whom have performed at world class venues, won international recognition, performed on national radio/TV, in major films and/or collaborated with superstars of performing arts.
On December 31, you can experience everything from a gypsy/neo-Balkan Trio, a Moldovan piano virtuoso, or a legendary hot jazz guitarist to a one-man sideshow, a champion Irish fiddler or a live reptile show.
On the Rock/Bluegrass/Blues/ Zydeco/Drum front: The John Ginty Band rocks the house, showcasing Ginty, who toured/performed with the Dixie Chicks, Jewel, Santana and received two Grammy nominations as a founding member of Robert Randolph & the Family Band. The Feinberg Brothers’ 5-piece band embodies classical bluegrass.
For gutsy blues, catch the Cobra Brothers. Got rhythm? Connect with Dana McCurdy’s Community In Rhythm Drum Circle. For flavors from New Orleans, the Zydeco Revelators offer that sweet Cajun accordion, cool rubboard vest mixed with zydeco classics, rock and jam band in an irresistible “jambalaya” of sound.
Lookin’ for some Jazz? After a near fatal accident, guitarist Frank Vignola is back with his Hot Jazz Guitar Trio, including guitar partner Vinny Raniolo and bassist, Gary Mazzaroppi. Vignola has performed with Lionel Hampton, Ringo Starr, Wynton Marsalis and other superstars First Night would not be complete without jazz pianist, Rio Clemente (the “Bishop of Jazz”), with his inventive and sparkling improvisations.
For Folk Music, catch the wit and wordplay of comedy folk singer, Carla Ulbrich, with her songs about wedgies, Waffle Houses, and Klingons. Remembering Pete Seeger, Spook Handy “keeps the flame alive,” in his ongoing World Tour. The Windborne Singers, a unique quartet of vocal chameleons, will captivate you with the purity of their voices, close harmonies and a fascinating repertoire spanning centuries and cultures.
Classical pianist Maria Sumareva
First Night’s Classical offerings include the superb artistry of Moldovan piano virtuoso, Maria Sumareva, winner of international piano competitions who dazzles with a repertoire spanning the Baroque through contemporary. The Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey explores great orchestral works from the 17th through the 21st centuries, while the Solid Brass Quartet’s grand and resonant brass features music from the Renaissance, Baroque and contemporary eras.
Harmonium Choral Society will feature South and Central American Christmas music, spirituals, Yiddish and American works. And, for “something completely different,” check out the Electro/acoustic Oboe mastery of Matt Sullivan and his sonic explorations.
First Night’s sampling of World Cultures includes the global fusion ensemble, Afrika meets India, blending the rich rhythmic and melodic traditions of India and Africa. Irish (and other) eyes will smile at the music of champion Irish Fiddler Brian Conway. Tavche Gravche, a Gypsy/neo-Balkan trio, offers a unique, fiery mix of Balkan/Eastern European and Mediterranean melodies. Try the joyous music of Random Test Reggae or Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre, or Shubanjali’s dancers who highlight Indian Classical/Folk Dance.
First Night audiences also can enjoy the dynamic rhythms of NJTAP2, whose young artists showcase the great American art form of rhythm tap dancing. Also, if you love line dancing or square dancing, neither experience nor partner is needed to participate in Square Dancing with caller, Mary Moody – fun for all ages.
Mr. Hypno — Stephen Morris
Looking for Theater/Comedy? Laugh your way into the New Year with the wit and wry humor of comedy stars, Erin Jackson and Tom McTiernan. More laughs are in store with Mr. Hypno’s Comedy Hypnotism as hypnotized volunteers discover such hidden talents as ballet dancing or cow milking! Illusionist Benjamin Lipman’s Comedy Cascade combines circus arts, vaudeville and humor with juggling, mime and magic.
The Loose Canons are master purveyors of musical parody. America’s Got Talent semi finalist David Darwin astounds audiences with his contortions, sword swallowing, glass walking, magic, juggling, fire manipulations and comedy. And, if you love history, don’t miss Living Voices: Our Revolution, a moving account of the American Revolution,told from the perspective of an African-American soldier.
Mr. Fish and his History and Mystery of Magic
Children’s – Family Programs: Who could resist Dinoman Dinosaurs! with Bob Lisaius’ life size, inflatable dinosaurs? Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery shares live reptiles (and other animals). Catch the clowns, face painting and glitter tattoos at The Children’s Fun Festival or visit Transformations Facepainting where each face becomes a living work of art. Skilled circus performer Mr. Fish explores The Mystery & History of Magic. Another favorite, Storyteller Julie Pasqual, brings her uniquely playful, physical theater skills, sharing stories from around the world.
The early session for younger children (4:45-6:45pm) includes hula hooping with Whirled Revolution, art making activities with artist Samantha (“Sam”) Matthews’ Art 4 Kids and Fun with LEGOs®. New to this year’s early session is the NJTAP2, an ensemble of young tap dancers, sharing their skills in rhythm tap dancing as well as Square Dancing with Caller, Mary Moody, with fun for the whole family.
Visual Arts:No experience is necessary to try Zentangle, a unique method of drawing using structured patterns, guided by art teacher Mimi Topping. And, as in years past, three visual arts exhibits (displaying over 300 artworks) and two sets of fireworks top off that magical evening known as First Night® Morris County.
To check out the full lineup of artists click here.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Sheriff’s Office is advising the Morris County community to be aware of a continuing phone scam that has been making the rounds again targeting residents of Morris County as well as communities nationwide.
Sheriff James M. Gannon said, “In the most recent calls, the caller and/or message will use an agency number for their Caller ID and will identify themselves as an employee of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. The caller says the resident has an outstanding debt and demands a prepaid credit card or the resident will be arrested. The caller states if the resident cannot pay, they must turn themselves in and may provide an address of a section of the Sheriff’s Office. In the event these fraudulent calls are received, residents should never give their personal or financial information over the phone, nor should they arrange to meet someone to provide a prepaid credit card. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office will never solicit methods of payment and/or personal identifiers over the phone.”
In 2017, and in January and May of this year, similar scams surfaced posing as officers seeking personal information and Green Dot MoneyPak cards for false warrants, civil process fees, overdue IRS payments and non-appearance for jury duty. Residents should notify their local authorities should they receive these calls.
ALL AGENCY INFORMATION AND CONTACTS CAN BE ACCESSED AND VERIFIED THROUGH THE MORRIS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE WEBSITE AT WWW.SHERIFF.MORRISCOUNTYNJ.GOV
Any suspicious calls regarding the Morris County Sheriff’s Office can also be directed to (973) 285-6600 during the day and (973) 285-2900 after hours for verification of agency personnel.
Crime Prevention Tips to Help Avoid Falling Victim to this Scam:
Legitimate law enforcement agencies will not tell people to provide money card information to avoid arrest.
Be suspicious of callers who demand immediate payment for any reason.
Never give out personal or financial information to anyone who emails or calls you unsolicited.
Never wire money, provide debt or credit card numbers or Green Dot Money Pak card numbers to someone you do not know.
Remember that anyone who has the number on a Green Dot Money Pak card, has access to the funds on the card.
If you have received a phone scam call, try to gather names, the phone number and location given, and report it to your local police.
Report tips and remain anonymous by contacting The Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers at (973) COP-CALL or www.copcall.org from your mobile device. NO ONE WILL ASK YOUR NAME!
MORRIS COUNTY — Over 80 percent of New Jerseyans polled by AARP are concerned that they can’t save enough for retirement, and Assembly Anthony M. Bucco has an immediate solution: exempt all retirement contributions from state income taxes.
New Jersey is currently one of three states that does not exempt retirement contributions from taxes as the federal government does.
“There is no incentive for people to save for retirement in New Jersey, which keeps a lot of people who struggle to make ends meet in a precarious financial position,” said Bucco(R-Morris). “The expanded options to save without reducing income will be a boon to those who struggle to fund their retirement.”
Bucco’s bill (A1406) exempts contributions to employer sponsored retirement savings accounts, including defined benefit 401(a) plans, deferred compensation plans by public employers, annuity contracts, and contributions to the federal Thrift Savings Fund. The legislation also allows contributions to individual retirement arrangements (IRAs) to be deducted from state income taxes.
“Taxpayers need immediate assistance to help them save for retirement,” Bucco emphasized. “New Jersey taxes the heck out of people, and it is making it hard for workers to imagine a comfortable retirement. They simply don’t have the means to save enough if their contributions are taxed.”
The poll also found support for a private-public retirement savings program, but the cost for employers, as well as concerns it may violate the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, provide hurdles for the idea.
A bill implementing a similar program became law in 2016. The program was supposed to be functional by January 2018, but still does not exist and does not have a certain timetable. The legislature has considered enacting a program alike the one in 2016.
PARSIPPANY — Old Bloomfield Avenue will be reduced to one lane of traffic which will be alternated in both directions on Thursday, November 29 between 9:00 a.m. and approx. 3:30 p.m.
On Friday, November 30 and and Monday, December 3 between 7:00 a.m. and approx. 3:30 p.m., Old Bloomfield Avenue will be reduced to one lane and only accessible to eastbound traffic. All westbound traffic will be detoured.
PARSIPPANY — Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany President Karen DeChristopher inducts new member Danielle DeLuca.
Danielle is Director of Marketing and Sales at KemperSports located in Parsippany.
Club President Karen DeChristopher presented Danielle with her official Kiwanis membership pin.
Club President Karen DeChristopher presented Danielle with her membership plaque and official Kiwanis membership pin.
DeChristopher said “We welcome Danielle to this global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meets every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at Empire Diner, 1315 Route 46. For more information on Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany click here.
CEDAR KNOLLS – Cedar Knolls IHOP re-opened today after a small kitchen fire that occurred on Friday, November 23. IHOP is located at 102 East Hanover Avenue.
Cedar Knolls Volunteer Fire Department and Hanover Township Fire Department responded to the scene. There were no injuries, and everyone was evacuated safely by restaurant management.
Cedar Knolls IHOP will donate 10% of all sales from Monday, December 3 to Friday, December 7 to Cedar Knolls Volunteer Fire Department and Hanover Township Fire Department.
“IHOP would like to thank both the Cedar Knolls Volunteer Fire Department and Hanover Township Fire Department for their quick response and keeping the damage minimal, allowing us to reopen within days after the fire,” said co-owner Sobhy Abdelhady.
PARSIPPANY — The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) just held its annual Operation Candy/Cookie Meeting and wrapped over 212 tins of holiday cookies, along with 68 packets of holiday cards, for area nursing and care homes. The goodies already have been delivered to residents of The Country Home, Morris Plains; The Firemen’s Home, Boonton; and The Eric Johnson House, Morristown.
Operation Cookie/Candy has been a project of New Jersey Women’s Clubs for over 50 years. Another recent holiday project of the club was Boatsie’s Boxes. Club members, friends and co-workers filled 142 Christmas stockings with toiletries, games, telephone cards and other items for members of the military serving overseas. These stockings were taken to the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC) headquarters to be shipped with over 1,700 stockings filled by the other women’s clubs of NJSFWC. And later in December WCPTH club members will be donating toys and other gifts to be distributed to children in the Dover area through the Adopt-A-Family Head Start Community Program.
Spreading Holiday Cheer, the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is all set to package candy and cookies to give to area senior and care homes. Photo by Joan Garbarino
The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC, which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service. The next General Meeting is on Monday, January 28. For more information about the January General Meeting or the club, e-mail the club Membership Chairwomen Betty and Marilyn at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, click here for their website, or follow the club on FaceBook.
