Woman’s Club Recognizes November as National Adoption Month

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Woman’s Club Recognizes November as National Adoption Month

PARSIPPANY — At the Tuesday, November 20 Town Council Meeting, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor Michael Soriano presented the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills (WCPTH) a Proclamation for National Adoption Month.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Jersey is the latest State Special Project adopted by the New Jersey State Federations of Woman’s Clubs (NJSFWC). CASA is part of a national network of non-profit programs that advocate for children removed from their families because of abuse or neglect.

CASA recruits and trains community volunteers to be a “voice in court” for children removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect. Community volunteers are trained to “speak up” for these children, helping them get the services they need and ensuring that they find safe, permanent homes. CASA programs operate in all 21 counties in New Jersey.

National Adoption Month is an initiative with a goal to increase national awareness and bring attention to the need for permanent families for children and youth in the U.S. foster care system. With a CASA volunteer dedicated to their case, these vulnerable children have someone speaking up for their best interest.

For more information on CASA click here.

The Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills is a member of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC), which is the largest volunteer women’s service organization in the state, providing opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service.   The November General Meeting is on Monday, November 26th at 7:00 pm, at the Lake Parsippany Rescue & Recovery Building, 100 Centerton Dr. Parsippany. All area women are welcome.  For more information e-mail the club at womansclubofpth@gmail.com, check us out on the web by clicking here or follow us on our FaceBook page.

Here is a copy of the Proclamation presented to the Woman’s Club of Parsippany-Troy Hills:
[gview file=”https://parsippanyfocus.com/uploadedmedia/2018/11/Proclamation_National-AdoptionMonth.pdf”]

Parsippany Town Hall Council Regular Meeting from (11/20/2018)

Frank L. Cahill
-
0

Parsippany Town Hall Council Regular Meeting from (11/20/2018) – Part 2

Parsippany Town Hall Council Regular Meeting from (11/20/2018) – Part 3

County College of Morris Trustee Receives Statewide Leadership Award

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
County College of Morris Trustee Receives Statewide Leadership Award

PARSIPPANY — On Friday, November 16, as part of the Vision 2028 Leadership Summit, the New Jersey Council of County Colleges presented the Ronald D. Winthers Trustee Leadership Award to County College of Morris Trustee Joseph Weisberg, Ed.D.

The award is named after long-time Rowan College at Burlington County Trustee Ronald D. Winthers, who served the college for over 25 years and served on the national board of the Association of Community College Trustees and as chairman of the NJCCC. It is awarded to long-time trustees who have made outstanding contributions to their community colleges.

Weisberg, of Parsippany, has served on the CCM Board of Trustees for 25 years and has made significant contributions both within the institution and throughout the region at large. The longevity of being on the Board of Trustees has allowed him to serve on practically all of the Board’s committees at one point.

The most notable special committees that he been a member of are the Personnel Committee and the Lands and Buildings Committee. Weisberg is also on the Organization, Bylaws and Nomination Committee where he helped draft and approve the CCM Statement of Trustee Responsibility and helped to develop the trustee self-evaluation tool currently in use.

The award, a glass acorn atop a metal base, was designed and created through a partnership between Salem Community College and Camden County College. Salem Community College has one of the most innovative glass programs in the country and Camden County College has been a leader in New Jersey in training and educating students to work in the metal fabrication and advanced manufacturing industries. The award embodies the commitment of New Jersey’s community colleges to creativity, knowledge, innovation, and collaboration.

The New Jersey Council of County Colleges is the state association representing New Jersey’s 19 community colleges. As an independent, trustee-headed organization that joins the leadership of trustees and presidents, the Council is a resource that strengthens and supports the state’s 19 community colleges.

Parsippany to Host Public Workshop on Master Plan Updates

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Parsippany to Host Public Workshop on Master Plan Updates

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills will be holding the first public workshop on its new Master Plan on November 27, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., at Parsippany Hills High School (PHHS) in the cafeteria at 20 Rita Drive.

The Township invites residents, business owners, property owners and other interested parties to share their ideas about how Parsippany should change and what assets should be protected over the next 10 years. Parsippany’s Master Plan is the Township’s public policy guide in terms of housing, economic development, transportation, utilities, recreation, sustainability, open space and other important resources.

The Master Plan is not a law, but it provides guidance to elected officials and decision-makers when they make land use, zoning and capital investment decisions. The basic purpose for a Master Plan, as stated by New Jersey Statute within the “Municipal Land Use Law” (MLUL), is “to guide the use of lands within the municipality in a manner which protects public health and safety and promotes the general welfare.” This current effort will reflect changes to the Township since the Master Plan was “Reexamined” in 2014. The purpose of the first public workshop is to introduce the project and discuss the community’s vision for Parsippany. Ensuing meetings and workshops will be used to present findings and test recommendations.

The feedback will help to ensure that the Master Plan is representative of the community as a whole and that it includes realistic and publicly supported goals and objectives. The Township led project is expected to continue until the summer of 2019. Maximizing citizen participation is an essential component of the effort.

There will be a numerous opportunities for public input including two public workshops, an online survey, stakeholder interviews and focus groups.

Nicole Coleman – Help her fight against Cancer

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Nicole Coleman – Help her fight against Cancer

PARSIPPANY — Nicole Coleman, 42, underwent brain surgery to remove a tumor on Monday , November 19, at University Hospital in Newark.

Nicole was born on June 26, 1976. She was raised in Parsippany and attended St. Christopher’s, Central Middle School, and Parsippany High School (Class of 1994). Following graduation, Nicole started a family with childhood sweetheart Eric Gibson. Together they have three beautiful children Donte, Cole and Shaday.

Just about a month ago Nicole started experiencing headaches and sought help from her doctor. At first they gave her some pain reliever and sent her home, but the pain wasn’t subsiding. She started forgetting things and getting confused. She was unable to remember from one moment to the next. She was taken to Dover General Hospital where Nicole had an MRI where a mass was located in the center of her brain.

Nicole has a long fight ahead of her and needs emotional and financial support to relieve the burden of aftercare. Please keep Nicole in your thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time in her life. If you would like to contribute a go fund me account has been set up.

Click here to view Nicole’s GoFundMe page.

Murphy Signs Resolution Designating “A Day in the Life – Type 1 Diabetes Day”

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Murphy Signs Resolution Designating “A Day in the Life – Type 1 Diabetes Day”

TRENTON — Governor Phil Murphy signed AJR152 into law, which designates the Monday before Thanksgiving Day of each year as “A Day in the Life – Type 1 Diabetes Day.” 

“It is our obligation to enhance awareness around Type 1 Diabetes and bring to light the daily challenges of thousands of New Jerseyans who live with this autoimmune disease,” said Governor Murphy. “Our Administration is committed to supporting these individuals in every way possible, taking us one step closer to a fairer New Jersey for all.”

Each year, more than 30,000 children and adults are diagnosed with T1D. Individuals with T1D suffer from the inability to produce insulin, resulting in a lifetime of health complications as there is no known cure.

This resolution will raise awareness of T1D and note the need for more research to help the 3 million Americans with T1D.

Sponsors of the legislation include Assembly members Eric Houghtaling, Joann Downey, Roy Freiman, and Senator Vin Gopal.

Meet Earl! Named after a relaxing cup of tea

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Meet Earl! Named after a relaxing cup of tea

PARSIPPANY — Meet Earl! Named after a relaxing cup of tea, his name says a lot about his personality!

Earl is nine years old and was recently rescued from an inner-city municipal shelter after they found him as a stray. Don’t let that make you sad though, this happy senior is now ready to find his forever family!

At only 47 lbs, he is a pint-sized cup of goodness. His tail NEVER stops wagging and he absolutely loves everyone he meets. While he is a more distinguished gentleman, he is still full of life and energy. Earl loves going for walks, eating bully sticks, and giving lots of kisses during snuggle time. He’s a great mix of fun and cuddly!

Earl would be great in a home with young children as he is tolerant and very easygoing. He’d prefer a home without cats but we think he can live with a calm, tolerant dog as Earl tends to be a bit dominant around other pups. He is potty-trained and crate-trained too!

Earl’s skin is currently in need of some TLC due to his previous, neglectful owners but he is loving his new food and improving every day. He is also deaf but doesn’t let that stop him at all! He does not get spooked or scared due to his deafness and, since he is always right by his foster’s side, it’s easy to get his attention.

If you’re looking for a sweet, relaxed guy who’d love to spend his golden years pleasing and loving you, apply to adopt Earl today!

If you are interested in adopting Earl, please fill out an application by clicking here.

Follow Wise Animal Rescue on Instagram by clicking here.
Like Wise Animal Rescue on Facebook by clicking here.

Morris County Narcotics Task Force Make First Degree Drug Arrests

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Morris County Narcotics Task Force Make First Degree Drug Arrests

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp and Chief of Investigations Stephen F. Wilson Jr. announce the arrest of several cocaine distributors following a long-term drug investigation that began in June 2018 into the importation and distribution of cocaine into Morris County. This investigation culminated on November 15 and November 17, when investigators executed four search warrants resulting in ten arrests and the seizure of over five hundred (500) grams of cocaine, over $10,000 in drug distribution proceeds, and five vehicles utilized in furtherance of drug distribution activity.

The following individuals were arrested as a result of this investigation:

Abel Mejia-Lara, 37, North Bergen, was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of First-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 1 count of First-Degree Distribution of Cocaine
  • 3 counts of Second-Degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine
  • 3 counts of Second-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 3 counts of Second-Degree Distribution of Cocaine
  • 4 counts of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine

Mejia-Lara is currently in custody at the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a Detention Motion.

Erlin N. Duarte-Oseguero, 27, West New York, was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of First-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 1 count of First-Degree Distribution of Cocaine
  • 1 count of Second Degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine
  • 2 counts of Second-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 2 counts of Second-Degree Distribution of Cocaine
  • 2 counts of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 5 counts of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine
  • 1 count of Third-Degree Distribution of Cocaine
  • 1 count of Fourth-Degree Possession of Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute

Duarte-Oseguera is currently in custody at the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a Detention Motion.

Cesar D. Acosta-Shuna, 35, Union City was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of First-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 1 count of First-Degree Distribution of Cocaine
  • 2 counts of Second-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 2 counts of Second-Degree Distribution of Cocaine
  • 3 counts of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine
  • 1 count of Second-Degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine

Duarte-Oseguera is currently in custody at the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a Detention Motion.

Walter O. Cabrera-Martinez, 36, West New York, was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of third-degree Possession of Cocaine

Cabrera-Martinez was released on a Summons Complaint.

Maria G. Ramos, 36, of West New York, was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine

Ramos was released on a Summons Complaint.

Rudy Mendez-Lopez, 20, Morristown, was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine

Mendez-Lopez is currently in custody at the Morris County Correctional Facility awaiting his First Appearance.

Gabriella Pieneda, 32, Morristown, was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine

Pieneda is currently in custody at the Morris County Correctional Facility awaiting her First Appearance.

Yassir Martinez, 40, Morristown, was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 1 count of Third-Degree Distribution of Cocaine
  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine
  • 1 count of Fourth-Degree Possession of Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute

Martinez was released on a Summons Complaint.

Edwin Garcia, 39 of Morristown, was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine
  • 1 count of Fourth-Degree Possession of Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute

Garcia was released on a Summons Complaint.

Alexander Rodriguez-Bejaran, 43 of Linden, was charged with the following:

  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
  • 1 count of Third-Degree Possession of Cocaine
  • 1 count of Fourth-Degree Possession of Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute

Rodriguez-Bejaran was released on a Summons Complaint.

Prosecutor Knapp stated: “We are losing too many of our citizens to the disease of addiction. This investigation demonstrates the importance of collaborative law enforcement efforts working together to infiltrate criminal organizations impacting Morris County. Fortunately, the Morris County Narcotics task force, led by the Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit, dismantled a drug trafficking group and the investigation resulted in the removal of a significant quantity of cocaine from our community.”

Prosecutor Knapp wishes to thank the following agencies for their assistance and commitment to the Task Force: Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Division, Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Police, Morristown Police Department, West New York Police Department, Morris Township Police Department, Town of Dover Police Department and Morris Plains Police Department.

The investigation and prosecution is being conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Division.

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.

Carousel of Learning Celebrated Giving Day

Frank L. Cahill
-
0
Carousel of Learning Celebrated Giving Day
PARSIPPANY — Carousel of Learning Celebrated Giving Day was held on Friday, November 16. The children brought in food to donate to the local food pantry.

Carousel of Learning is located at 244 Kingston Road. For more information click here.
Carousel of Learning wishes everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

Letter to the editor:  No PILOT! Bob Venezia is correct and more 

Letters to the Editor
-
0

parsippany focusDear Editor:

On Tuesday, November 20, the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council will vote on whether to approve a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreement between the township and the developer of the District at 1515 project, which consists of 441 apartment units and 112,000 sq. ft. of retail space. This PILOT DEAL is to compensate for an alleged “constitutional obligation”? Well then if that is in fact the case then 100% affordable should be the objective, along with State subsidies to enforce their own ruling. The construction of more luxury apartments or retail space is completely unneeded in order to accomplish this obligation. This is part of the Christie legacy which failed to address a viable solution to the exploitation of citizens do to market forces driven by profit motives rather than the actual organic needs of society.

The following from “Housing Opportunity Task Force Findings & Recommendations”, March 19, 2010. Which is still the core of the dilemma  created by the original case, Mount Laurel being more about discrimination and gentrification and its demise of basic rights of citizens.

In Mount Laurel I, this Court held that a zoning ordinance that contravened the general welfare was unconstitutional. We pointed out that a developing municipality violated that constitutional mandate by excluding housing for lower income people; that it would satisfy that constitutional obligation by affirmatively affording a realistic opportunity for the construction of its fair share of the present and prospective regional need for low and moderate income housing. This is the core of the Mount Laurel doctrine. Although the Court set forth important guidelines for implementing the doctrine, their application to particular cases was complex, and the resolution of many questions left uncertain. Was it a “developing” municipality? What was the “region,” and how was it to be determined? How was the “fair share” to be calculated within that region? Precisely what must that municipality to do to “affirmatively afford” an opportunity for the construction of lower income housing? Other questions were similarly troublesome.

Two basic approaches must be deciphered. 1. Immediate, or short-term. Is their really an absolute need for this additional unneeded elements of the proposed development, more market or luxury apartments,and retail? does not Parsippany already have enough housing options both rented and vacant already satisfying needs? Does not Parsippany already have enough retail malls? 2. Comprehensive, or long term impacts that will occur; for example traffic, water, trash and air pollution. The mere fact that a for-profit  corporate developer of perhaps unknown actual already existing financial resources is trying to take advance of local officials perhaps not capable of determining all factors, both local and regional and all sources including nonprofit housing available. What is the need for more new construction? It has not been determined, but thrown to the dogs due to Governor Christie’s lack of leadership. Comprehensive would also included strategic plan envisioning what long term future it holds; for example housing in close proximity to travel options, transit and work location to decrease the sprawl phenomena  rather than increase it.  We must also question, why is Parsippany not directly dealing with the Fair Share Housing Center ; why are we circumventing this agency as a primary partner?

Developers have been using affordable housing in other ways, like intimidating and threatening lawsuits; waterview still the best example. If local officials really knew the law and policies of good land use they should have known waterview could never have fallen to COAH type housing. Local officials proved they could not defend their own community from false threats because they were not versed in policies and options available to invoke.

The other ploy used in conjunction with undefined obligations is jobs; short term jobs in construction and substandard jobs of dubious employment possibilities.

The bottom line is without government subsidies to meet the obligation of necessity for ‘affordable living space’ private corporate forces will continue to dominate through their power of lawsuits and PILOT deals while the very agency of government itself, the Constitutional Source of the obligation plays little or no role in mandating low income housing to citizens that are left out in favor of capital rather than real human needs. Parsippany and all of New Jersey needs a plan and an economy that serves the people, not the people to serve the economy. An economy that already favors the advantaged. The giant traffic jam of November 15 due to the snowstorm was more due to the sprawl and its replication will and does occur over and over again all due to poor planning and developers fantasies as they walk away from the havoc they inflict on the general welfare of man and nature.

No PILOT Deal

NO PILOT AGREEMENT or mortgage and sales tax exemptions for corporations that can easily afford to pay their fair share of the tax burden.  Giving away our tax base only produces less revenue, which in turn means higher taxes for all property owners.

Nick Homyak

1...599600601...1,139Page 600 of 1,139